Tuesday Volume 538 17 January 2012 No. 249

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Tuesday 17 January 2012

£5·00 © Parliamentary Copyright House of Commons 2012 This publication may be reproduced under the terms of the Parliamentary Click-Use Licence, available online through The National Archives website at www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/information-management/our-services/parliamentary-licence-information.htm Enquiries to The National Archives, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU; e-mail: [email protected] 595 17 JANUARY 2012 596

Act, passed in 2010, all but precluded transfers from House of Commons Guantanamo Bay. The Act has recently been renewed for 2012, with some amendments, which is why we are Tuesday 17 January 2012 looking at its implications. We have asked about Mr Aamer’s health and welfare, and have been assured that he is in reasonable health, has access to medical treatment and The House met at half-past Two o’clock is not held in solitary confinement. International Conference on Afghanistan PRAYERS 3. Susan Elan Jones (Clwyd South) (Lab): What BUSINESS BEFORE QUESTIONS assessment he has made of the outcome of the International Conference on Afghanistan in Bonn; and if he will LONDON LOCAL AUTHORITIES BILL [LORDS] make a statement. [89807] (BY ORDER) Further consideration of Bill, as amended, opposed and The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth deferred until Wednesday 25 January at Four o’clock Affairs (Mr William Hague): The Bonn conference, (Standing Order No. 20). which I attended last month, reaffirmed the international community’s long-term commitment to Afghanistan after 2014, through economic support, a plan for funding LONDON LOCAL AUTHORITIES AND TRANSPORT FOR the Afghan national security forces and a clear set of LONDON (NO.2)BILL [LORDS](BY ORDER) principles for reconciliation. The Afghan Government committed themselves to progressing their development TRANSPORT FOR LONDON (SUPPLEMENTAL TOLL priorities and upholding their human rights obligations. PROVISIONS)BILL [LORDS](BY ORDER) Second Readings opposed and deferred until Tuesday Susan Elan Jones: I am grateful to the Foreign Secretary 24 January (Standing Order No. 20). for his response. Can he tell us what steps the Government are taking to ensure that women’s human rights are maintained when UK and US troops are drawn down? Oral Answers to Questions Mr Hague: We gave a great deal of attention to that at the Bonn conference. The ministerial champion for tackling violence against women and girls overseas attended FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE the civil society events, and I am pleased to say that 50% of the Afghan delegation to the civil society forum were female and a leading female civil society representative The Secretary of State was asked— presented views at the main conference. The importance of the rights of women and their involvement was Shaker Aamer centre stage at the Bonn conference, and we assisted in that process. 1. Jane Ellison (Battersea) (Con): What recent progress he has made towards securing the release of Richard Ottaway (Croydon South) (Con): The Shaker Aamer from Guantanamo Bay. [89805] Government’s stated policy objective in Afghanistan is to deny al-Qaeda and other extremists bases from which The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth they can attack the UK and other British interests. In a Affairs (Mr William Hague): The British Government letter to me of 6 December, copied to the Foreign remain committed to securing Shaker Aamer’s release Secretary and the Prime Minister, the Chairman of the and return to the United Kingdom. I raised his case Intelligence and Security Committee, referring to the again with Secretary Clinton during my visit to Washington threat from al-Qaeda, said that on 12 December. My officials are currently exploring “while the threat is not on the scale it once was…it does nevertheless the new US legislation on detainee transfers for the remain a serious concern.” implications for this case. Does that, which can only be interpreted as a downgrading of the threat in Afghanistan, have any impact on the Jane Ellison: I thank the Foreign Secretary for that timetable for withdrawal? answer and for the continued efforts of the Government on Mr Aamer’s behalf. Obviously, it has been 10 years Mr Hague: We hope all the time that we are making so I wonder whether the Foreign Secretary could say progress against the threat in Afghanistan, and there is more to the House about what he considers to be the no doubt that in recent times al-Qaeda has suffered very roadblocks to release and whether he has given any serious damage and setbacks in Afghanistan and its consideration to asking international bodies, such as vicinity. That threat is not over, as my hon. Friend was the United Nations, to support the British Government saying, but our efforts to improve security in Afghanistan in their efforts to release Mr Aamer. continue, and it is a combination of our assessment of that threat and the need for continued political progress Mr Hague: This is a matter for the United States, not in Afghanistan to stabilise its regions. It is our assessment for international authorities. My hon. Friend is aware of a combination of all those factors that leads to our of the difficulties; there have been no transfers out from decisions on troop levels, with a decision for 2012, Guantanamo since the National Defence Authorisation which we recently announced. 597 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 598

Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): The EU Economy developmental teams that will remain after the British military ceases operations in Afghanistan are in danger 5. Anne Marie Morris (Newton Abbot) (Con): What of becoming top targets for insurgents. Did my right assessment he has made of the implications for his hon. Friend receive any indication from his American Department of economic conditions in the EU. [89809] counterparts that they envisaged retaining some military capability in strategic bases in Afghanistan after 2014? 16. Mr Mark Spencer (Sherwood) (Con): What assessment he has made of the implications for his Mr Hague: The military position after 2014 is under Department of economic conditions in the EU. [89820] discussion. Indeed, I discussed it this morning with General Allen, commander of the international security The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington): The assistance force, and important decisions will be made crisis in the eurozone is having a chilling effect throughout at the NATO summit in Chicago in May next year. We Europe, which is why this Government are arguing do not envisage that development work in Afghanistan vigorously within the European Union for action to will be without security after 2014. As my hon. Friend promote growth by deepening the single market, boosting knows, we are building up Afghan forces, which are trade and cutting red tape. several hundred thousand-strong, in addition to the potential for military co-operation from other states. The position on that will become clearer after the Anne Marie Morris: I thank the Minister for his NATO meeting in Chicago. response. Does he agree that it is important that policies are enacted at EU level to encourage economic growth? Measures designed to help drive sustainable economic Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP): The threat from recovery, such as exempting micro-businesses from the al-Qaeda and the training that takes place in Pakistan is burden of red tape, would have positive implications for high. What discussions has the Foreign Secretary had all Government Departments across the 27 member with the Pakistani authorities to reduce the threat of states, including his own. al-Qaeda crossing the border into Afghanistan? Mr Lidington: I agree completely with my hon. Friend, Mr Hague: We are always in discussion with Pakistan which is why the agreement at the December European about that subject, and I have many discussions with Council for an exemption from European regulations the Pakistani Foreign Minister about it. We have regular for micro-business was particularly welcome, especially contact at military level, as well as between the Prime as that will apply not only to new European legislation Minister of our country and the Prime Minister of but will prompt a review of the existing acquis in Pakistan. Pakistan’s own long struggle against terrorism respect of micro-businesses. is always high on that agenda, and we should recognise the efforts that it has made in that regard: huge numbers— perhaps 30,000 people—have died as a result of terrorist Mr Spencer: Can the Minister assure the House that activity in Pakistan over the past 10 years. We look to the principles of the Prime Minister’s veto will be Pakistan to maintain those efforts. followed through, and that any attempt by the EU to impose a tax on this country’s financial services will be vigorously resisted? National Emergency Mr Lidington: A financial transfer tax would require 4. Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): What his unanimous agreement by all 27 member states, which is role would be in a national emergency. [89808] something that the single market Commissioner, Monsieur Barnier, has confirmed to me. The Prime Minister has The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth made it clear that we would not agree to the imposition Affairs (Mr William Hague): I would support the Prime of such a tax. Minister and the Government in their response, particularly in an international dimension. Mr Ben Bradshaw (Exeter) (Lab): What assessment has the Minister made of the impact on the EU economy Mr Bone: The Foreign Secretary might have a problem of the recent behaviour of the Hungarian Government? with that. Is it true that under Government contingency Has he reminded that Government that there is an plans if the Prime Minister were killed in a terrorist expectation that all EU members adhere to normal attack it would be the Foreign Secretary who took democratic norms? charge of the Government until the Queen could choose a new Prime Minister? Mr Lidington: We are certainly concerned about any developments in other EU member states which might Mr Hague: I can assure my hon. Friend that continuity lead to even greater economic instability than we currently of government plans are in place to deal with any see. I have talked about the concerns expressed in a catastrophic destabilising incident. I know that he has number of quarters with regard to Hungarian legislation asked the same question of my right hon. Friend the with my Hungarian opposite number and with the Defence Secretary, and the answer is the same: we do Commission. As the right hon. Gentleman may know, not consider it appropriate to talk about these plans in the Commission is due to release the results of its public, but I can assure him that arrangements are in assessment about now. The Hungarian Government place for any such contingency. I cannot guarantee that have said that they will consider carefully and constructively there will be a place in the bunker for Mrs Bone, I am the comments that the Commission makes, whatever afraid. they are, and I believe that that is the right way forward. 599 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 600

Emma Reynolds (Wolverhampton North East) (Lab): Brazil It has been reported that the Foreign Secretary advised the Prime Minister before the European Union summit 6. Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) (LD): What in December that if it is a choice between keeping the recent assessment he has made of the effect on bilateral euro together or keeping the Conservative party together, relations with Brazil of that country having overtaken it is in the national interest to keep the Conservative the UK as the sixth largest economy. [89810] party together. Can the Minister confirm that the Foreign Secretary regards the unity of his party as more important The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth to the national interest than the success or failure of our Office (Mr Jeremy Browne): The continued rise and largest trading partner? success of emerging powers like Brazil present a great opportunity for our bilateral relationship. This Government Mr Lidington: I really had hoped that the hon. Lady have already shifted resources there. The Foreign Secretary would have something a bit better to say than that. will be leaving this evening for a visit to Brazil. In What the Government are determined to do is to support November I opened a new consulate-general in Recife our allies and neighbours in the eurozone in their efforts in Brazil’s fastest growing region. to restore economic stability to their currency union, and also to press for the measures to promote job Jo Swinson: With the world’s fifth largest population creation and economic growth which the whole of Europe and sixth largest economy, Brazil is an important economic desperately needs. We are not prepared to take lectures power and a key market for expanding British trade, so from the Labour party that signed away £7 billion of the Foreign Secretary’s visit is welcome. It is also an the British rebate and denied the people of this country increasingly important diplomatic power, so what can the referendum on the Lisbon treaty, which it had the Government do to encourage Brazil to play a positive promised. leadership role on global issues such as climate change, human rights and democracy? Mr John Redwood (Wokingham) (Con): Does the Minister agree that the gloom about the consequences Mr Browne: That precise point will be central to the of an early break-up of the euro has been greatly Foreign Secretary’s talks with the Brazilian Foreign exaggerated, bearing in mind the very positive economic Secretary in Brasilia tomorrow, but as an illustration of experience for eastern European countries from the the seriousness with which we treat this relationship, let break-up of the rouble zone—very similar to the euro—in me tell the House that last year there were 14 ministerial the early 1990s? visits to Brazil, whereas in the previous three years combined there were just 10 ministerial visits. So we are Mr Lidington: I have to say that it is unusual to find affording Brazil four times the amount of ministerial my right hon. Friend looking to the example of the attention that the previous Government did. former Soviet Union for inspiration. We have looked across Government very carefully at what the consequences Geoffrey Clifton-Brown (The Cotswolds) (Con): Does of a eurozone break-up might be, and one of the key my hon. Friend agree that our trade at £5.2 billion in differences between now and 20 years ago is that the 2010 offers scope for considerable increase? What more economies and the financial systems of Europe are can his Department do, particularly through UK Trade much more closely interlinked now than they were then. & Investment, to forge better links with the Brazilians It is certainly our judgment that it would be damaging in order to increase that trade? to the British national interest were a collapse of the eurozone or a prolonged recession in the eurozone to Mr Browne: I agree with my hon. Friend’s point. The take place. economies of Latin America and Asia are growing fast and becoming increasingly important, which is why the Kelvin Hopkins (Luton North) (Lab): The credit ratings British Government are determined to double trade of a number of eurozone states have been downgraded with Brazil in the lifetime of this Parliament and why this week. The bail-out fund is now considered to be far we are expanding the network of diplomatic and trade too small to do its job. Mario Monti, Italy’s unelected staff across Brazil, including opening a new consulate- Prime Minister, said yesterday that there would be a general in the north-east of the country in November. backlash against austerity unless Germany provides more support to Italy. The crisis becomes deeper every Middle East day. Is it not the case that recovery for many of those countries can come only when they can recreate national 7. Diana Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab): currencies, devalue and start to grow again? What recent discussions he has had with representatives of the Palestinian National Authority on rocket attacks Mr Lidington: With respect to the hon. Gentleman—his on Israel. [89811] views on the subject are utterly consistent and I respect them—that is a matter for the peoples and Governments The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth of those sovereign countries. From our point of view, Affairs (Mr William Hague): I met the President of the what is needed is for the eurozone countries to implement Palestinian Authority yesterday.We are extremely concerned in full the deal that they agreed to in October last year, about the recent escalations of violence, including Israeli and for Europe collectively at 27 to move forward air strikes on Gaza and rocket attacks by Palestinian urgently with deepening the single market, boosting groups on Israel. We condemn any actions in which global trade and cutting red tape and regulation on our civilians are hurt or killed and have called on all sides to businesses. That is the way to growth and jobs. show restraint and avoid a spiral of retaliation. 601 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 602

Diana Johnson: I am grateful to the Foreign Secretary Hamas and Fatah? Given Hamas’s stated position on for that response. In order to move to a two-state Israel and the peace process, will he also give an undertaking solution in the region, did he stress in his conversations that any internal political agreement reached within the yesterday the importance for Palestinian unity of recognising Palestinian community needs to be assessed in terms of the Israeli state and bringing an end to the rocket the external political implications on the prospects for attacks? peace in the wider region?

Mr Hague: Of course, that is extremely important, Mr Hague: I agree with that. As I said in answer to an particularly when one considers the number of rocket earlier question, it is very important that the Palestinian attacks—it is reported that 758 rockets were fired from Authority are constituted in a way that allows them to Gaza at Israel in 2011. We certainly discussed Palestinian conduct negotiations with Israel. That includes, importantly, reconciliation and the fact that any Palestinian Authority recognising the previous agreements entered into by the constituted as a result must be able to work with Israel Palestine Liberation Organisation, and that is a key towards a two-state solution. I strongly welcomed the point, so we hope that that will be continue to be the initiative of His Majesty the King of Jordan in bringing position of the Palestinian Authority. Of course, Palestinians and Israelis together in recent weeks for reconciliation is meant to pave the way for elections discussions. That is a positive development that we among Palestinians, and we cannot at this stage pre-judge want to see continue. or predict the outcome of those elections.

Robert Halfon (Harlow) (Con): I welcome my right Andrew Percy (Brigg and Goole) (Con): The Foreign hon. Friend’s reply to the previous question. With Hamas Secretary is right to call for temperance on all sides, but raining many hundreds of missiles upon Israel, can the does he agree that it is unacceptable for senior officials Government do more to try to stop weaponry being and members of the Palestinian Authority to continue smuggled through tunnels into Gaza, and does he agree to attend cultural events at which individuals call for that the more missiles come over, the harder it is to the end of the state of Israel, and that it is wrong for make peace? those officials to support sporting events named after “martyrs”—people who have murdered innocent Israeli Mr Hague: My hon. Friend is absolutely and very citizens? evidently right that that does not help peace or the two-state solution that we all so urgently want to see. Mr Hague: We do not support any delegitimisation We call again for such rocket attacks on Israel to end. of the state of Israel. We are friends of Israel, and we support the right of Israel to exist in peace and security, Mr Douglas Alexander (Paisley and Renfrewshire but we believe that that peace and security is best served South) (Lab): I welcome the fact that the Foreign Secretary by urgent moves towards a two-state solution, and that met the Palestinian President yesterday. In my later always guides our policy. discussions with the President, he was at pains to emphasise the urgent need to make substantive progress in the Middle East coming days in the negotiations that the Foreign Secretary mentioned are taking place in Jordan. In the light of 8. Mrs Linda Riordan (Halifax) (Lab/Co-op): If he this urgency, when did the Foreign Secretary last speak will make representations to the Government of Israel with his Israeli counterpart and what steps are the on the increase in demolition of Palestinian homes in British Government taking to ensure that ongoing Israeli the west bank in 2011. [89812] settlement expansion is not allowed to be a reason for these crucial talks to be derailed? The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Alistair Burt): I do make Mr Hague: I also spoke yesterday to the Israeli representations on the demolition of homes, and I will Government, to the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Meridor—I continue to do so. I was in Israel and the occupied speak sometimes to him and sometimes to my counterpart, Palestinian territories last week, and it gave me an Mr Lieberman. On this occasion I called Mr Meridor opportunity to see some of those who are subject to to stress the need for Israel to respond positively in the demolition orders, including the Bedouin community negotiations and put forward its own proposals, and I outside Jerusalem, and to visit such people in the Negev made the case, as I have often done in this House, that as well. I had the opportunity also to raise those issues Israel needs to make a more decisive and generous offer directly with Israeli Ministers. than we have seen for some years in order to be able to make progress. The Israeli Government are in no doubt Mrs Riordan: Is the Minister aware that the number about our views and we urge both sides to continue with of Palestinian homes demolished by the Israelis last these talks and not to be so wedded to the 26 January year rose by 38%, and that the number of displaced deadline that the opportunity to continue the talks is Palestinians doubled? Does he agree that that is hardly lost. the sign of a Government intent on peace settlements on the basis of the 1967 borders, and that it would send Mr Alexander: I welcome the tenor of yesterday’s a signal to the Israelis if the UK Government supported conversation with Deputy Prime Minister Meridor. In the Palestinian bid to join the United Nations? an earlier answer the Foreign Secretary mentioned the reconciliation process within the Palestinian community. Alistair Burt: On the first part of the hon. Lady’s Alongside the immediate prospects for the latest round remarks, I am very conscious of the numbers, as indeed of talks, will he give the Government’s assessment of are many Members because of the representations that the possible implications of a deal reached between have been made to us. It is a very serious issue, which we 603 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 604 take up regularly with the Israeli authorities. The movement Alistair Burt: By happenstance, I was at the village and settlement of people is a hugely divisive political and saw the obstruction of access take place. It was an issue, and it is one reason why we have pressed both unannounced visit as far as the authorities were concerned. sides to move towards a settlement, because that is the Effectively, an Armco barrier was built across the access only thing that will ultimately ensure that all those who road that leads to a major highway. It was not immediately live in Israel and in the Palestinian territory can live in clear where the alternative access could be, except via a peace and security. hill with an extremely steep gradient behind the village. That very lunchtime, I was able to make representations Sir Menzies Campbell (North East Fife) (LD): Does to the Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister, Danny Ayalon, my hon. Friend accept that the demolition of Palestinian about the circumstances. This is precisely the sort of homes and the continued construction of settlements thing that raises concerns among the international on the west bank, not to mention the construction of community and makes it difficult for the Bedouin in new houses in East Jerusalem, will make it increasingly that area to feel secure. difficult to establish a viable Palestinian state and, in Russia turn, make it impossible to reach a two-state solution? 9. Mr Dominic Raab (Esher and Walton) (Con): Alistair Burt: I share the right hon. and learned What steps he plans to take in response to recent Gentleman’s concerns, and that is why we have repeatedly reports of human rights abuses by the Government of made clear to all our view that we regard illegal settlement Russia. [89813] building as contrary to the interests of peace building. It is a matter that must be addressed. It is vital to the The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington): We division of land in the area, and that is why we constantly will continue to raise concerns about human rights with raise it. Russia at ministerial and official levels. We shall sponsor a number of observers at the forthcoming Russian presidential election that is due in March. Simon Danczuk (Rochdale) (Lab): How many Israeli settlements does the Minister think need to be built on Mr Raab: I thank the Minister for that answer. With Palestinian land before the chance for peace is destroyed? the US Senate due to approve the bipartisan Magnitsky Bill, which will impose mandatory visa bans and asset Alistair Burt: The numbers are not a matter for the freezes on those responsible for gross human rights United Kingdom. What we do say, and say very clearly, abuses, and with similar proposals in the Netherlands is that building on occupied Palestinian land is illegal in and Canada, will he look at the case for bringing international law and has been held to be so in some forward an equivalent Bill in this House? cases by Israeli law. That is why we regard the issue as an obstacle to peace, unless it is dealt with. It is vital Mr Lidington: As the Under-Secretary of State for that it is part of the negotiations, and that is why we Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my hon. Friend wish very well the current efforts being made in Amman. the Member for North West Norfolk (Mr Bellingham) said in response to my hon. Friend the Member for Esher and Walton (Mr Raab) in Westminster Hall the Mr Rob Wilson (Reading East) (Con): Following the other day, if the American Bill, which I understand is at recent leaked internal EU report expressing concerns committee stage in the Senate, eventually becomes law, about the west bank, will my hon. Friend make it clear we will look closely to see whether there are lessons on to the Israeli Government—and I understand that there which we might draw. My hon. Friend will know that is fault on both sides—that the construction of housing we have powers in this country to ban any person from units in and around Jerusalem is counter-productive to coming to the United Kingdom if there are grounds for the peace process? concern about their character, conduct or associations.

Alistair Burt: The issue of East Jerusalem is particularly Tony Lloyd (Manchester Central) (Lab): When the difficult. For there to be a viable two-state solution and Minister is making representations in Moscow about a shared capital, it is essential that East Jerusalem human rights in Russia, will he raise with the Russians, retains its Arab character. That is why we are so concerned who have a pivotal role at the United Nations, the about the settlement building there. The Government of human rights abuses in Syria, because if Russia unblocked Israel are well aware of our concerns, which we make its present position at the United Nations, it would very clear. I repeat to the House that, as we all know, allow real pressure to be brought on the Syrian regime? this matter must be included in the overall settlement, the basics of which we hope are being discussed by the Mr Lidington: The hon. Gentleman makes a very parties with great intent in Amman at the moment. good point. We obviously talk a great deal to Russia about the situation in Syria. My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary, within the past few weeks, has talked Richard Burden (Birmingham, Northfield) (Lab): Last to Foreign Minister Lavrov about Syria, including to week, Israeli forces cut off access to the village of Khan pass on our great concern about the systematic abuse of al-Ahmar, a Bedouin community just outside Jerusalem human rights in that country. where a school was built using international donations. Is that an example of something that must be unacceptable? Sir Malcolm Rifkind (Kensington) (Con): Although Given the international character of Khan al-Ahmar, the respect for human rights in Russia may be considerably what representations can the UK Government make to greater than in it was in the Soviet Union, does not the get the Israeli Government to change their mind on the terrible treatment of Mr Magnitsky, his death in custody matter? and the refusal of the Russian authorities to recognise 605 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 606 responsibility for what happened suggest that my right human rights when he was in London a couple of hon. Friend the Minister should follow the advice of my months ago, and we had the opportunity to talk about hon. Friend the Member for Esher and Walton (Mr Raab) how we can enhance Colombia’s prosperity and trade and not wait until the United States has reached its opportunities, which are also important for its development. conclusion, but do everything in our power to follow a similar course of action? Tunisia

Mr Lidington: As my right hon. and learned Friend 11. Mr Frank Roy (Motherwell and Wishaw) (Lab): knows, we have powers in existing law to ban people What support the Government are giving to the from coming to this country on the grounds that their development of democracy in Tunisia. [89815] presence would not be conducive to the public good. He also knows that successive Governments have followed The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign a practice of not commenting on individual cases. His and Commonwealth Affairs (Alistair Burt): Having delivered concerns about the abuse of human rights in Russia are, bilateral support in Tunisia during the election process however, well made. That is why my right hon. Friend through help on voter outreach and through the United the Prime Minister and all Ministers, when they meet Nations Development Programme generally, the United Russian counterparts, always make a point of raising Kingdom continues through its Arab Partnership to human rights matters. support efforts to rebuild democracy and freedom of expression in Tunisia and strengthen economic reform. Colombia Mr Roy: The Minister will be aware that local governors 10. Yvonne Fovargue (Makerfield) (Lab): What have been replaced by unelected governors in Tunisia. representations he has made to the President of What efforts can be made to bring about local as well as Colombia on protection for trade unionists and human national democracy there? rights activists in that country. [89814] Alistair Burt: It is a good line. The Arab Partnership The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth is interested in working with the Tunisian authorities on Office (Mr Jeremy Browne): My right hon. Friends the what they are looking for by way of re-establishing Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and the government. It enables us to draw on resources right Foreign Secretary discussed human rights with President across the UK—for example, institutions, NGOs and Santos during his visit to the United Kingdom in November. organisations such as the Local Government Association I chaired a discussion between the President and non- —that have expertise to offer. The hon. Gentleman governmental organisations, which included the security certainly makes an interesting suggestion. It has not of human rights defenders in Colombia, and the President been raised directly with me in my visits to Tunisia, but reiterated his commitment to improving Colombia’s I will certainly take it back with me. human rights situation. Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) (SNP): Yvonne Fovargue: There is real concern that people Anybody who has been to Tunisia recently will have are still being imprisoned in Colombia for trade union been impressed by the enthusiasm for the new democracy activity. What assessment has the Minister made of that and the ideals of the revolution, but many challenges situation, and what representations have been made? remain, particularly in the economy. What material resources and assistance are the UK Government therefore Mr Browne: I share the hon. Lady’s observation that giving the constituent assembly in the drafting of the there are real concerns about human rights abuses in new constitution? Colombia. We do not pretend otherwise, and we actually spend a lot of time and money on trying to improve the Alistair Burt: The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right situation. The President has made that point, and he to put the focus on the economy. When we talk about acknowledges our concerns. It is fair to recognise that the changes that have taken place in the Arab world we improvements have been made in recent years, but concentrate on the political, but unless the economics many further improvements still need to be made and are right they will undermine the political changes that we are actively working to try to bring them about. have been made. The UK provides support multilaterally through the G8, the Deauville partnership and the Mark Pritchard (The Wrekin) (Con): Is it not the case European neighbourhood partnership, and we have that the greatest human right of all is the right to life offered support for capacity building right across the and that under the Administration of President Uribe board, including on constitution drafting and issues and now that of President Santos the demobilisation of affecting economic reform. the FARC guerrilla group, reducing it from tens of thousands to 9,000 today, has brought about a new era Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab): Loathing of corruption of peace and prosperity in Colombia that is good not was the immediate catalyst of the Arab spring, but the only for Colombia but for Latin America and for our Tunisian Association for Financial Transparency states bilateral relations? that the British Government need to do more to assist the current Tunisian Government by providing information, Mr Browne: My hon. Friend makes a valid point. The particularly about finance in the British overseas territories murder rate in Colombia has fallen dramatically. It is and the transactions of the previous Tunisian Government. still very high by European standards, but it is nevertheless What discussions has the Minister had with the current a lot lower than it previously was. I am delighted that Tunisian Government about access to the British overseas the Colombian President signed a joint declaration on territories and their finances? 607 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 608

Alistair Burt: I have had no discussions in the terms prisoners—the laws allowed him to act decisively to that the hon. Gentleman mentions, but I know that one release a large number of prisoners. Of course, let me part of the assistance that we are already actively providing make it absolutely clear that the improvement in relations is to the anti-corruption unit in the Tunisian Government. between Burma, our country and many other countries It has already taken advice and support from the UK would come to a very rapid halt and go into reverse on that matter. I will consider what the hon. Gentleman were those prisoners to be taken back into custody, but says specifically about the overseas territories, but so far the President of Burma said to me when I was there that issue has not been raised with Ministers. 10 days ago that Burma’s progress to democracy is irreversible, and all the Ministers I met said that all Burma political prisoners would be released.

12. Mr Sam Gyimah (East Surrey) (Con): What Meg Munn (Sheffield, Heeley) (Lab/Co-op): Although assessment he has made of political progress in Burma; I welcome the changes and developments with the Karen and if he will make a statement. [89816] people, they are far from the only ethnic minority within Burma with which there have been a lot of 14. Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): What tensions and difficulties, as the Foreign Secretary will assessment he has made of his recent visit to Burma; know. Despite progress in some areas, there has been an and if he will make a statement. [89818] increase in attacks on other peoples. What discussions did he have on other ethnic minorities and what pressure The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth is he putting on Burma to ensure that every ethnic Affairs (Mr William Hague): I draw the House’s attention grouping is including in the democracy that we hope is to the written statement on my visit to Burma, which developing there? was published yesterday. Last week, the Burmese Government and the Karen National Union signed a historic ceasefire. The following day, there was a significant Mr Hague: The hon. Lady is quite right: although release of political prisoners, which will contribute to what has happened in relation to the Karen people is greater democratic participation in the parliamentary important, other ethnic conflicts continue. I held a by-elections. If that momentum can be maintained, we meeting with ethnic representatives from around Burma are clearly moving into a new phase in our relations in Rangoon on my visit there and raised this wider with Burma. matter with the Government at all the meetings I had with them. I also announced an additional £2 million of Mr Gyimah: As my right hon. Friend says, the release humanitarian assistance for displaced people in Kachin of 651 political prisoners by the Myanmar Government state, where fighting continues. It is important for the is a major political statement and certainly one that is to Government of Burma to understand that resolving the be commended. What confidence does he have that all conflicts more widely around the borders and ethnic political prisoners will be released in time for the elections areas remains important. in April this year? Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): The Opposition Mr Hague: The importance of the timing of last join the Foreign Secretary in welcoming the release of week’s announcement is that yesterday—16 January—was political prisoners in Burma although, as he has the date for any candidates to register to participate in acknowledged, many hundreds of men and women the 1 April elections in Burma. The release of so many remain in prison there for their political beliefs. Will he prisoners is therefore an important move ahead of tell the House what he did to push the Burmese regime those elections. to allow greater access for the world’s media, particularly My hon. Friend is quite right to ask about other in the run-up to the elections in April, now that restrictions political prisoners. Our assessment is that of the have started to be lifted? 651 prisoners released on Friday, between 270 and 283 could be considered political prisoners. That means Mr Hague: I made the point to Government Ministers that political prisoners remain, although it must be said there that part of the essential opening up to the rest of that there are definitional disputes over what a political the world is access for media representatives. Indeed, on prisoner is between the Burma Government and opposition my visit I was able to facilitate that access for the first groups. However, we of course look for the release of all time and to ensure that BBC correspondents could go political prisoners in Burma while welcoming that move to places or get invited to press conferences to which as a major step forward. they would not previously have been invited. Each international visit helps to prise open to a greater extent Dr Huppert: All Members of the House support the the media’s access to Burma. We will continue with release of the political prisoners and share the concern those efforts. that there are still so many. However, I understand that the released prisoners have not been pardoned, but simply had their sentences suspended. What assurances Simon Kirby (Brighton, Kemptown) (Con): Will the has the Foreign Secretary had that they will be pardoned Foreign Secretary join me in extending continued support and kept out of prison rather than being re-arrested to the pro-democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi? shortly? Mr Hague: I certainly will. I spent the best part of Mr Hague: My hon. Friend is quite right about the 24 hours with Aung San Suu Kyi during my visit to details, although that seems to be the effective way for Rangoon. She is an inspirational figure, a great leader the President of Burma to secure the release of the and a great hope for the future of her country. 609 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 610

Libyan Assets The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr William Hague): This week, I am visiting 13. Mr Jamie Reed (Copeland) (Lab): What steps he Brazil as part of our efforts to transform our engagement is taking to support the unlocking of Libyan assets. with emerging powers in Latin America. I will also [89817] co-chair the UK-Caribbean ministerial forum, which will reinvigorate our historic ties with those countries. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Alistair Burt): The United Margot James: Islamic fundamentalist violence has Kingdom continues to play a leading part in working been increasing in Nigeria for more than a decade, and with the Libyan authorities on the recovery of assets has now erupted beyond the northern region. What through the alleviation of sanctions. On 16 December, does my right hon. Friend think can be done to counteract the United Nations was able to lift the sanctions on the this threat to Nigeria and to sub-Saharan Africa as a Central Bank of Libya and on the Libyan Arab Foreign whole? bank, which released some £6.5 billion worth of assets Mr Hague: We are focusing on that threat. We are in Britain alone for the use of the Libyan people. sharing with Nigeria our expertise on counter-terrorism policy and on legal frameworks. We are also providing Mr Reed: I am grateful to the Minister for that reply. assistance with specific capabilities such as managing In October last year, the Foreign Secretary noted in a the consequences of a terrorist attack. In all of this, we letter that are in close touch with our partners in the European “the countries of the Arab League will play an important part in Union and the United States. We are also supporting providing the support the Libyan Government requires to rebuild programmes in the north of Nigeria to address the root the Libyan economy”. causes of insecurity, such as poverty and social inequality. Will the Minister tell us what recent assessment he and his Department have made of the contribution of the Mr Douglas Alexander (Paisley and Renfrewshire Arab League member countries to the economic recovery South) (Lab): Will the Foreign Secretary give the House in Libya to date, and what form he expects it to take in his assessment of the calls by leading members of the the future? Free Syrian army for the Arab League to refer the issue of Syria to the United Nations Security Council? In the Alistair Burt: The Arab League, in conjunction with light of the difficulties encountered by the Arab League the rest of the international community, played a vital observer mission, and on the basis of the aforementioned part in ensuring the freedom of the people of Libya, discussions with Foreign Minister Lavrov, does the Foreign and that support continues to be evident. The Libyan Secretary believe that there is any realistic prospect of Government are establishing themselves and building the Russian Government altering their stance on Syria? their capacity to handle the recovery of assets and to determine the way in which they can be used. Accordingly, Mr Hague: I think that it would be right for the Arab they are in discussions with ourselves and with Arab League to bring its concerns and any decision that it League partners, which are being effective. This is a makes at its forthcoming meetings—it has two coming process in which we are all engaged. up, on the 19th and 22nd—to the UN Secretary-General and UN Security Council. Over recent weeks, I have Mr Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con): One of the encouraged the Secretary-General of the Arab League, problems with liberal imperialist wars is that once they Mr al-Arabi, to bring Arab concerns directly to the are over, we lose interest in their victims. I have already Security Council, because I believe that the time is long drawn attention to the United Nations report on the overdue for the Security Council to be able to speak on plight of the 7,000 prisoners who are being held by the Syria with a united voice. The right hon. Gentleman current Libyan Government in the most appalling will recall—his question partly referred to this—that conditions and undergoing torture and many other when we last tried to do so, on 4 October, our resolution dreadful things. What are this Government doing about was vetoed by Russia and China. I am not optimistic that? that the situation with regard to Russia’s attitude would be different at the moment, but we will continue to Alistair Burt: This Government do not lose sight of discuss the matter with Russia. It would help if the Arab the victims of this conflict. The conditions of those in League were to come to the UN directly with its concerns. detention have been raised by Ministers on visits, and directly with the Libyan Government. It is a matter for T2. [89831] Simon Kirby (Brighton, Kemptown) (Con): them to be able to create the processes to determine the Will the Foreign Secretary assure the patriotic Falkland future of those detainees. The commitment to human Islands that any posturing by the Argentine Government rights is absolute, regardless of how those in Libya were will be met with a very firm response? taken prisoner, captured or anything else. The United Kingdom stands four square behind that, and so does Mr Hague: I can assure my hon. Friend of that. The the national transitional council, which has made clear view across and in all parts of the House on the Falkland its own concerns, as well as its determination to deal Islands is firm and consistent: we believe in the self- with the issue of detainees through appropriate free and determination of the people of the Falkland Islands, fair judicial processes as quickly as possible. and it is their self-determination, of course, that they wish to remain British. Topical Questions T4. [89833] Sandra Osborne (Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock) T1. [89830] Margot James (Stourbridge) (Con): If he (Lab): In line with the recent report by the UN rapporteur will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. on torture, will the Minister condemn the practice by 611 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 612

Israel of holding children in solitary confinement, and Mr Hague: We need both actually. Given the flat will he make representations for the release of the economies in the eurozone and the fact that exports to 106 children who remain detained within the Israeli the eurozone have fallen over recent years, it is doubly military prison system? important that we develop our export markets across the rest of the world. However, there is also a strong The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign case for driving growth within Europe, through free and Commonwealth Affairs (Alistair Burt): We welcome trade agreements with the rest of the world, by pushing the fact that Israel has recently changed to 18 the age of forward the single market in services and digital services majority in those territories for criminal jurisdiction, and by removing regulatory barriers to growth. The but we have made, and continue to make, representations Prime Minister will very much be pushing that agenda in relation to children’s rights—the right of audience, at the European Council on 30 January. the right to interpreters and the like—and from the Dispatch Box recently I said that the practice of shackling T6. [89835] Susan Elan Jones (Clwyd South) (Lab): children was wrong. Will the Secretary of State tell us what steps, if any, are being taken to prepare for the possible implications of T3. [89832] Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): Iran’s seeking to close the straits of Hormuz? Under the Government’s excellent new human trafficking strategy, the Foreign Office is required to have country Mr Hague: As the Defence Secretary pointed out in business plans obliging ambassadors and high his speech in Washington a short while ago, any such commissioners to take appropriate local action against attempt to close the straits of Hormuz would be illegal human trafficking. What action has been taken? and I believe that it would be unsuccessful. It would also be damaging to Iran—to its own economy and its Mr Hague: My hon. Friend is quite right to raise this own situation. I think it is important for Iran to desist matter. We have highlighted to our posts around the from statements on this subject and to engage instead world the key commitments in the human trafficking with the offer of negotiations with the E3 plus 3 countries. strategy that they can help to deliver. Those include In the meantime, we are working ahead of next week’s engaging with foreign Governments to ensure that common Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels to extend sanctions challenges are identified, and encouraging them to work on Iran, including an oil embargo on a phased basis. with us to address those challenges. We have asked each Work on that is going on now to increase the peaceful of our posts to identify a single point of contact on pressure on Iran to negotiate. human trafficking, and we are working in consultation with colleagues across government and with non- Several hon. Members rose— governmental organisations to bring together all the work that is already going on, including on the specific Mr Speaker: In view of the huge interest, brevity is local challenges in each country. He can therefore be vital. assured that our posts across the world are working hard on this. T9. [89839] Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con): What progress is being made on the T5. [89834] Jonathan Reynolds (Stalybridge and Hyde) forthcoming constitutional referendum in Zimbabwe, (Lab/Co-op): What assessment have the Government which will be a prerequisite for free and fair elections in made of recent calls by the Qatari leadership for Arab a country that has had more than its fair share of states to intervene militarily to stop the bloodshed in violence and intimidation in elections in the past. Syria, and would the Foreign Secretary support such action? The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr Henry Bellingham): I Mr Hague: That is one view—and an important view, certainly share my hon. Friend’s concern about continuing of course, coming from the leadership of a state such as persecution, particularly of Movement for Democratic Qatar. As I mentioned in reply to the right hon. Member Reform MPs. There was the dreadful case of the recent for Paisley and Renfrewshire South (Mr Alexander), arrest of Lynette Karenyi allegedly for insulting the the Arab League is meeting on the 19th and 22nd, so we President. Obviously, the immediate priority for Zimbabwe should not presume that this is the view of the whole is preparation for the referendum on the constitution Arab League. Although we continue to increase the and making sure that the road map to credible free and pressure on the Assad regime and strongly support the fair elections is in place. Arab League’s work, the hon. Gentleman will be aware that we have not called for military intervention in T7. [89836] Thomas Docherty (Dunfermline and West Syria, the consequences of which would be far more Fife) (Lab): What steps are the Government taking in difficult to foresee than in Libya and the legal authority the coming year further to strengthen the parliamentary for which does not exist. As things stand, therefore, this systems in our overseas territories? is a distinct case from that of Libya. Mr Bellingham: I would like to thank the hon. Gentleman T8. [89838] Steve Brine (Winchester) (Con): The Foreign and, indeed, my hon. Friend the Member for Bournemouth Secretary’s previously referred to visit to Brazil this West (Conor Burns) for participating in the mission to week is welcome and continues his much-needed drive observe the British Virgin Islands elections in November. to make trade the cutting edge of British diplomacy. As We believe that having observers is good practice for the balance of world economic activity shifts to the east open democracies like ours and the overseas territories. and the south, would he agree that a blinkered approach This is highly relevant to the Turks and Caicos Islands to trade inside the European Union is not only very last where we hope to have elections later this year if the century but painfully lacking in ambition? milestones continue to be met. 613 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 614

Sir Peter Tapsell (Louth and Horncastle) (Con): While Baroness Warsi was in Pakistan for several days last my right hon. Friend strives to halt the tragic loss of life week and met many of the leading figures there. We are in Syria, will he also be mindful of Harold Macmillan’s friends of a democratic Pakistan—across the House we advice that one should never underestimate the capacity are friends of a democratic Pakistan—and we look to of a middle eastern state to replace a bad Government all concerned in both the political and the military by an even worse one—or, may I add, by no effective leadership to work together to ensure a democratic and Government at all, which could create even greater constitutional future for their country. bloodshed? Andrew Rosindell (Romford) (Con): I know that the Mr Hague: It is not only middle eastern states that do Foreign Secretary will share my disappointment at the this from time to time. I very much take what my right news that the overseas territories have been refused hon. Friend says, but I have to point out that there has permission to enter a vessel in the diamond jubilee river been, I think, a better trend than that during the last pageant in June. Will he assure the House that they will year, which can be seen if we look at events in Libya and be granted full recognition and participation in the Tunisia and at democratic developments in Morocco diamond jubilee celebrations? and Jordan. Nevertheless, my right hon. Friend’s warning is well taken: we always listen to the words of Harold Mr Bellingham: I want to praise my hon. Friend for Macmillan and to his. his indefatigable support for the overseas territories. As he knows, we will shortly publish a White Paper which Jeremy Corbyn (Islington North) (Lab): Has the Foreign will discuss how we can reinvigorate our relationship Secretary had a chance to read the reports from the with them, and obviously we want them to participate Carter Centre, the European Union, the United Nations fully in Her Majesty’s jubilee celebrations. and the Catholic Church of the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the recent conduct of the presidential elections there and the barely credible reports of a 100% Mr George Howarth (Knowsley) (Lab): Does the turnout in some areas, which led to President Kabila Foreign Secretary agree that the Association of Southeast being declared the winner and the British ambassador Asian Nations can play an important role in encouraging attending his inauguration? What representations is the the Burmese to maintain the progress that he described right hon. Gentleman making to the DRC Government earlier? concerning those elections and the future of democratic elections in that country? Mr Hague: Yes. That is particularly true given that Burma will have the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2014. Mr Bellingham: On the positive side, there was far One of the points that we made to other ASEAN less violence in these elections than there was in 2006. nations at the United Nations General Assembly last Furthermore, most voters who wanted to vote could year, before Burma’s appointment, was that the country and did vote. I agree, however, with the hon. Gentleman must be pushed in the right direction—the direction in that there were a number of serious irregularities throughout which it is now moving—if it expected to have the the electoral process. That is why we called on the DRC chairmanship, and those nations seem to be working authorities to investigate them properly and fairly. It is well together. vital that lessons are learned. Jack Lopresti (Filton and Bradley Stoke) (Con): What Martin Horwood (Cheltenham) (LD): As we discovered steps can be taken to limit the shipment of arms and during events surrounding the invasion of Iraq, it is munitions from Iran in particular to militant groups in essential for states to act only on hard evidence. In Palestine? relation to Iran, will the Secretary of State encourage not only Iran itself but the whole international community Mr Hague: We are very concerned about the shipment to listen carefully to the International Atomic Energy of arms by Iran, and about Iran’s consistent support for Agency this time? Hezbollah in Lebanon, but there has been evidence over time of arms shipments from Iran to other parts of the Mr Hague: Yes, it is very important to listen carefully region as well. We will always express our concern to what is said by the International Atomic Energy about those actions, and will always encourage other Authority. As my hon. Friend will know, it was a report countries in the region to live up to their own legal from the IAEA which, in November, referred to the responsibilities to intercept illicit armed shipments. That military dimensions of Iran’s nuclear programme and is certainly happens, but we will always encourage those the concern that was felt about it. That has fortified our countries to ensure that it continues. determination—the determination of countries throughout the European Union—to adopt the measures that we will be discussing next week although, as my hon. Rushanara Ali (Bethnal Green and Bow) (Lab): What Friend has said, they must always be based on hard assurances did the Foreign Secretary seek and secure evidence. from the Burmese Government that there would be free and fair elections in April? Mike Gapes (Ilford South) (Lab/Co-op): What assessment has the Foreign Secretary made of the current crisis in Mr Hague: That main assurance I sought was that at Pakistan and its possible implications for our country? least a large tranche of political prisoners, but preferably all of them, would be released before the date on which Mr Hague: We have been making a continuous candidates should register for the elections. I warned assessment of political events and tensions in Pakistan the president directly that the elections would not be over recent weeks and days, and we are in close touch considered free and fair if most political prisoners were with a variety of Pakistani leaders. My noble Friend still in prison and unable to stand. That is why I am 615 Oral Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Oral Answers 616 pleased that so many prisoners were released a few days was a very good debate about it in Westminster Hall last before the deadline for registration. We will now have to week. We will continue our representations in relation judge the circumstances in which those elections take to Pastor Nadarkhani. History tells us that efforts to place—to judge whether there is free debate in the make people of faith recant their faith are doomed to media and out in the country—but I can certainly say failure: the faith endures, and the name of the faithful is on the basis of my meeting with the committee of the remembered long after the torturers are forgotten. Mutual League for Democracy that there is real enthusiasm and determination to ensure that such free debate does Several hon. Members rose— take place. Mr James Clappison (Hertsmere) (Con): At this sensitive Mr Speaker: Order. I apologise to any Members who time in relations with Iran, will the Government still do may be disappointed, but the appetite for questioning what they can to encourage Iran to improve its record the Foreign Secretary and his colleagues is invariably on religious persecution—for instance, in the case of insatiable. Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani, who apparently faces a death sentence unless he is prepared to give up his Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): Unassuaged. Christian beliefs? Alistair Burt: My hon. Friend and many other Members Mr Speaker: And unassuaged, as the hon. Gentleman have made representations about this matter, and there helpfully points out from a sedentary position. 617 17 JANUARY 2012 618

Point of Order Sexual Offences (Amendment) Motion for leave to introduce a Bill (Standing Order 3.35 pm No. 23) Mr Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab): On a point of order, Mr Speaker. On Thursday12 January, the 3.36 pm Russian embassy published on its website a highly personal and inaccurate attack on me. The attack related John Mann (Bassetlaw) (Lab): I beg to move, to a debate the previous day on human rights in Russia That leave be given to bring in a Bill to amend the Sexual and the treatment of Sergei Magnitsky, in which several Offences Act 2003 to create an offence of paying for sexual Members of all parties spoke. I believe this is the first services of a person under the age of 21 years; and for connected time that a foreign embassy accredited to Her Majesty’s purposes. Government has so attacked a Member for carrying out In talking about this subject, I shall turn directly to his parliamentary duties. Clearly, the Russian embassy the issue of drugs, on which I have frequently spoken is not covered by the rules of privilege or free expression before in the House. It is a key issue in respect of the in Parliament, but I hope, Mr Speaker, that you do not problem the Bill addresses, and I think the Bill will have think this is a welcome development, and that Members a positive impact. must be able to say what they think about other countries Legislation has many purposes, one of which is to without coming under pressure or intimidation from change people’s behaviour. Many previous Governments embassies and accredited diplomats. have passed far too much criminal justice legislation that attempts to send messages and give signals to Mr Speaker: I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman society. This Bill does not attempt to do that; rather, it for his point of order and for notice of it. I certainly attempts to change behaviour, which is a far more agree that no Member of the House should be intimidated effective strategy. in exercising his or her undoubted right to free expression There are three main ways in which teenagers, both in this House. I might add that although my own boys and girls, get drawn into prostitution; one of them imagination is moderately vivid, the idea of the right is trafficking. The Bill does not deal with that topic in hon. Gentleman being intimidated by the Russian embassy detail, but it has been well aired in this House in recent or anybody else is beyond it. times. As a result, there has been a flurry of legislation, but it needs to be used far more effectively—both the Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): They send you bottles Government and the police must deliver. of vodka and take you to a Japanese restaurant. This Bill’s measures would not have a major impact Mr Speaker: If there are no further points of order, on trafficking, and they should not be considered as an or sedentary heckles by the hon. Gentleman, we shall answer to that problem. Instead, they should be seen move on to the ten-minute rule Bill. merely as a minor assist. Trafficking is, however, one way in which teenagers get cajoled into prostitution. Abuse and drugs are far more significant factors, however, especially with younger teenagers, and the Bill will make a greater impact in dealing with them. Those two factors—sometimes in combination—tend to lead to the dysfunctional behaviour of 16, 17 and 18-year-olds entering the world of prostitution. Sometimes that happens through coercion and sometimes it happens through desperation, although an element of both is often involved. I wish to start by discussing the issue of abuse. Until the previous general election, I was the Member of Parliament representing Rampton, the largest secure hospital for women—the only secure hospital for women—in this country. I have visited it and talked to staff on numerous occasions, so I am aware that one incredible reality of the women there is that, of course, they are there because they acted in hugely abnormal and horrific ways, and they will often be there for life, but all the evidence suggests that they were abused as children. That is a fact and a reality; it is not an excuse. In my work on tackling drugs—for better or for worse I have conducted a huge amount of field research, both with organisations and with constituents—I have found that, without question, 16, 17 and 18-year-olds who are getting addicted to drugs are doing so because of major trauma in their lives. A range of major traumas is involved, but the correlation we should always look at first is with abuse as a teenager, be it psychological, physical or sexual. The use of sex becomes a way of generating income within the drug community. It tends initially to be a way of buying or trading drugs, which 619 Sexual Offences (Amendment)17 JANUARY 2012 Sexual Offences (Amendment) 620 becomes endemic and then spreads to become a way 3.46 pm of obtaining cash, through sex with strangers; this Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): I rise to speak about predominantly affects women, but it also affects young the motion on the Order Paper, although I have nothing boys, too. The problem for the 16, 17 and 18-year-olds specific to say about the Bill proposed by my hon. who find prostitution to be an easier route to quick Friend the Member for Bassetlaw (John Mann)— money than burglary or robbery and to be more profitable [Interruption.] Let me explain, Mr Speaker— than the easier option of shoplifting is that this dysfunctional activity then traps the addict, much more so than those Mr Speaker: Order. The hon. Gentleman is opposing other behaviours, in a way of life that they cannot get this, I am sure. out of. I am not here to make a moral speech about prostitution. Chris Bryant: I am opposing the motion on the Order There is an important debate to be held on the rights Paper, because it reads: and wrongs of prostitution and the laws that should “That leave be given to bring in a Bill to amend” have an impact on it, by my Bill does not deal with that. and all the other stuff that my hon. Friend mentioned. I My Bill does one thing: it raises the threshold for the do not think that we should be giving leave to bring in illegality of paying for sex. Of course there is a threshold, any more Bills, as there is absolutely no point in assenting which is currently 16. Where someone is under 16, the to yet another Bill being brought in. If it is to be huge consequences of the criminal law and imprisonment successful and to be brought into law, by Prorogation it are involved because of the age of consent. But the will need to have gone through all its stages in this moment the victim becomes older than 16 there are no House and all its stages in the other House. We know punitive powers to deal with the person who is paying. I perfectly well that the Deputy Leader of the House—who wish to see this Bill adopted by the Government at some is in his seat and will, no doubt, assent to this—has stage solely and simply to raise that threshold, because absolutely no intention of ensuring that there will be by raising the threshold one raises the threshold. That time for the Bill to have its Second Reading, let alone to may sound like a truism, but this approach will change go into Committee. Consequently, I cannot see that the behaviour of those choosing to pay. The behavioural there is any sense in it. implication is there for those worried about breaching the criminal law and risking 14 years in prison because I merely point out that there are 109 private Members’ someone could be a minor of 15 and a half years old. Bills on the Order Paper and only three are from— On that borderline, threshold behaviour changes, so I [Interruption.] I hear an hon. Gentleman say that that would like Parliament to change that threshold to 21. In this should be a point of order, but it is not. The motion essence, that will take all the teenage years out of the on the Order Paper states that we should give the Bill real threshold and will change the behaviour of people the right to go forward, and if hon. Members are going who are paying. I am not making moral judgments to agree to its going forward they should ensure that about what people do as adults. there is time for it to do so and for it to do something substantial. There is a means of doing that. My Bill seeks solely and simply to raise that threshold. I think that raising the threshold will have a huge There are 109 private Members’ Bills on the Order impact because the age group involved—older teenagers— Paper—several have come from Mrs Bone, it is true—and must be given the space in which to turn around their only three have come back from the Lords and therefore lives. Our current legislative framework makes them the stand any chance of becoming law before Prorogation. victims as, in reality, the powers available to the police, They are the Live Music Bill, which has already been even though they are often wisely and deliberately not through all its stages in this House, the Contaminated used, are to arrest and criminalise young people, which Blood (Support for Infected and Bereaved Persons) Bill worsens their life chances and their chances of turning and the Building Regulations (Review) Bill. Only two around the situation. are in their remaining stages, which will take place this Explicitly changing the threshold, as well as changing Friday, and could possibly become law, unless the Deputy the behaviour of those who are paying, will create space Leader of the House were to say that the Government to allow the various agencies to work and turn around would give time in some of the next few days, when we the situation for those 16, 17, 18 and 19-year-olds. That are, frankly, slightly less busy with Government legislation. situation can then be transformed, particularly for those That would enable us to enact some of the private who have a drug dependency or who have suffered abuse. Members’ Bills. Such input, as they develop into adults, will make a Alternatively, I hope that, as a lot of Members want defining difference in many cases. We have all seen the to legislate on specific matters that would be of significant kinds of people who are the victims in our constituencies; advantage to our constituents, the Backbench Business we all know that they can be anyone and that they can Committee will consider making time available on Back- be concentrated in areas where there are particular Bench business days for private Members’ Bills. As we problems. The correlation to major trauma, however, discussed in last week’s debate, I do not believe that this and to abuse and the provision of the support and ability House should just be representative—it is important to impact on those young kids—that is what those boys that we do the representing. We cannot do the representing and girls are—are wholly missing from the process. as Back-Benchers if private Members’ Bills just stack I propose this Bill as a small contribution that, for up on Fridays. There are 64 this Friday and I guess we some of them, would have a significant impact. It might get to debate two of them in any kind of substance, would raise the threshold for those who choose to pay and the rest of the Bills will not even be heard on a day and remove a reasonable number of those teenagers when we are sitting. from the industry, creating space so the agencies who If hon. Members want to agree to this going forward, wish to work with them can do so positively and allow I say to them sincerely that they should ensure that them to turn around their lives. there is more time for private Members’ Bills, because 621 Sexual Offences (Amendment) 17 JANUARY 2012 622 [Chris Bryant] Backbench Business sometimes they make some of the best legislation. [Interruption.] The Whip, who should be silent, is [UN-ALLOTTED DAY] trying to accuse us of not having given enough time, but in my time as Deputy Leader of the House we got more private Members’ Bills on to the statute book in one Future of Town Centres and High Streets year than this Government will in two full years in one Session. Frankly, he can go back to his silence. 3.52 pm Question put and agreed to. Ordered, Mr Marcus Jones (Nuneaton) (Con): I beg to move, That this House has considered the matter of the future of That John Mann, Fiona Mactaggart, Natascha Engel, town centres and high streets. Mrs Louise Ellman, Gavin Shuker and Siobhain McDonagh present the Bill. Let me begin by thanking the Chairman of the Backbench Business Committee, the hon. Member for John Mann accordingly presented the Bill. North East Derbyshire (Natascha Engel), and her fellow Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on colleagues on the Committee for granting this debate. I Friday 30 March and to be printed (Bill 272). thank also hon. Members and Friends who supported the request for this debate at that Committee. We all have at least one if not several town centres or high streets in our constituencies. I know that many right hon. and hon. Members share my passion for our town centres. For me, that passion was developed during my time as a local councillor and council leader, when I had responsibility for town centres during the deepest and darkest period of the recession. Our town centres are focal points for shopping and meeting friends and colleagues, as well as for accessing entertainment, leisure, culture, public services and transport among other things. The economic and social contribution that our town centres make cannot be understated. High streets make up 13% of UK economic value and 14% of total UK employment. Unfortunately, over many years the position of our high streets and town centres has been eroded to varying degrees. Many of the stronger retail chains have squeezed out the individual small businesses from many high streets but are now retrenching owing to the economic conditions. They are becoming dependent on fewer and fewer stores and consequently are withdrawing from many of our town centres.

Robert Halfon (Harlow) (Con): I congratulate my hon. Friend on securing this important debate, as well as on setting up the all-party group on town centres. Does he agree that one way of regenerating town centres is, as happens in my constituency, to give tax incentives to areas that are trying to regenerate themselves and to independent shops and small businesses so that they can set up, as opposed to only the chains coming into every high street across Britain?

Mr Jones: I certainly think that we at least need to put our town centres and high streets on a level playing field with other parts of the retail industry. We need to be as innovative as possible to make sure that taxes are as low as possible for people who want to operate on our high streets.

Ian Austin (Dudley North) (Lab): I commend the hon. Gentleman on his success in securing the debate. Dudley town centre has seen better days; it is just a few miles up the road from the Merry Hill shopping centre. Does he agree that Dudley town centre would be ideal for one of the pilot studies resulting from Mary Portas’s review? Does he agree that the Minister should select Dudley for one of the pilots and that the Minister 623 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 624 Streets Streets ought to come to Dudley so that I can take him around for a vacancy creep that is happening at different rates the town centre and he can see for himself the problems across the country. Many of the factors in my analysis we face? of the reasons for decline may be a little simplistic, but what we do to arrest that terminal decline is far from Mr Jones: Dudley is an important area and the hon. simple. Gentleman makes a strong case for it, but I think it probably ranks somewhere behind my constituency in Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): I congratulate relation to this matter. the hon. Gentleman on securing this important debate. Is he aware of a study by Transport for London showing In the last few days alone, we have seen some long- that the average retail spend per month is £373 for standing store chains, such as Blacks Leisure, Peacocks people who walk to their high street but only £226 for and Barratts, all enter administration. In the words of those who take their car? Similar studies show that Mary Portas, those who cycle or take the bus or train spend more “our high streets have reached a crisis point,” than those who drive. a statement with which I am sure many people up and down the country will agree. Mr Jones: My hon. Friend makes a reasonable A number of factors have led to the decline of our suggestion, but there is a difference between travel in high streets, although the main reasons are undoubtedly the London area and the situation in other regions of the steady rise of out-of-town retail shopping malls, the UK. I can certainly say that far more people who together with the dramatic impact of the arrival of shop in my local town centre in Nuneaton drive there internet shopping, which has soared. Back in 2007, it than use local transport, so we have to be pragmatic. accounted for 4.8% of retail sales, but last November it Dan Byles (North Warwickshire) (Con): Does my was found to account for 12.2%. That is a challenge to hon. Friend agree that people who do not go to the our town centres, and it will be greatly exacerbated by town centre at all because they cannot walk or drive the increased use of mobile phone technology, which is spend nothing at all? broadening the internet spectrum. Mr Jones: That is a sensible if not obvious point, and Karen Bradley (Staffordshire Moorlands) (Con): I it is important. thank my hon. Friend for securing this very important As for how we address that decline, I welcome the debate. May I share with him the experience of my local review that the Government have instigated and their town of Leek, where the totally locally Leek initiative decision to commission the Portas review, which has has been developed by independent shopkeepers? The not just brought the views of Mary Portas, a recognised idea is that if everybody who lived in Leek spent £5 each retail guru, to the high street but has served to stimulate week in a local shop rather than on the internet, it much-needed debate on this crucial issue. I was delighted would be worth £4 million to the local economy. Does that Miss Portas took time when researching the report he agree that we need initiatives such as that to promote to hold a discussion with the all-party group which, as local high streets? my hon. Friend the Member for Harlow (Robert Halfon) mentioned, I chair. The meeting was nearly as well Mr Jones: It is important for people to try to get the attended as this debate, which highlights the importance best deal in terms of their shopping habits, but reliance of our town centres and high streets to parliamentarians on local shopping is also important. Only in that way and their constituents. will we secure the future of our local town centres and high streets. Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): My hon. Friend is making an excellent speech. Does he welcome Dr Andrew Murrison (South West Wiltshire) (Con): what is happening in Wellingborough and Rushton, where My hon. Friend eloquently lays out the reasons why the Government’s economic policies are being enforced many town centres are falling on hard times. Has he with great gusto? We have free car parking, and a new noted Mary Portas’s remarks about the motor car? In Marks and Spencer is opening in Wellingborough. A market towns, and in rural areas, a car is no luxury, and multi-billion pound project is hopefully about to open it is essential for the vibrancy of those towns that there in the Rushton area providing jobs and local availability is adequate parking. What does he feel about that and, for shopping. in particular, Portas’s remarks about a league table for car parks? Mr Jones: My hon. Friend makes an excellent case for his local area, and such positivity will do nothing Mr Jones: My hon. Friend makes an extremely sensible but help further investment in his constituency. point. For far too long, we have not thought about the John Howell (Henley) (Con): I agree that my hon. people who want to drive into our town centres and we Friend is making a powerful speech. Does he agree that have not considered the quality and availability of car the neighbourhood planning provisions in the Localism parking. We have certainly not considered its cost, Act 2011 give local communities a greater say for the which I shall come to later. It is extremely prohibitive first time in helping to shape the sort of town centres and is one reason why there is not a level playing field that they need and want? for our town centres in relation to their out-of-town competitors. Mr Jones: That vision is certainly significant and, In my constituency, Nuneaton town centre has fared along with the national planning policy framework reasonably well, and better than many. There is a property provisions such as the “town centre first” policy, it is vacancy rate of about 6% while the national average is extremely important. I shall come on to that in a 11.1%, although the factors I have mentioned account moment. 625 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 626 Streets Streets [Mr Marcus Jones] Tracey Crouch (Chatham and Aylesford) (Con): In addition to the proliferation of betting shops, there has I shall go through some of the Portas proposals in been a proliferation of high-cost credit lenders on our more detail but, before doing so, I should like to quote high streets, which prey on some of the most vulnerable the final words of the review: members of society. Will my hon. Friend join me in “Those are just my ideas. What are yours?” congratulating Medway council, which has established I hope that it is in that spirit that right hon. and hon. a cross-party working group to look at how the council Members will use the focus of today’s debate to feed can get involved in ensuring that the licensing of those into the work of the Portas review through their own money-lending shops is controlled and reduces the possible constituency experience, which should serve to inform damage to the most vulnerable members of society? Ministers’ thinking before they make their response and implement any policies following that crucial review. Mr Jones rose— I will briefly mention one or two points from the five groups of recommendations in the Portas proposals. I Mr Speaker: Order. Before the hon. Member for very much welcome the idea of a town team. Many Nuneaton (Mr Jones) responds, let me say, first, that he constituencies have town centre partnerships or business has been speaking for 14 minutes. I am sure many improvement districts, and I was personally involved in Members have been greatly enjoying his speech, and I setting up a town centre partnership in the town of am sure the hon. Gentleman has been enjoying it, but Bedworth in the neighbouring North Warwickshire there are nearly 50 Members who wish to speak and to constituency when I was council leader. The concept of whom a time limit applies, so I hope he is bringing his the town team represents a shift in thinking. remarks to a conclusion. Secondly, the frequency with which he gives way is a matter for him, but he might Dan Byles: As my hon. Friend and neighbour has want to bear that in mind. Thirdly, interventions are too mentioned the town of Bedworth in my constituency, long. may I take the opportunity to thank him for doing that work when he was leader of the council? Bedworth is Mr Jones: Thank you, Mr Speaker, for that guidance. one of those towns that are linked to a larger town in I will try to keep my remarks brief and to keep interventions the borough, and was sometimes considered, for want to a minimum. of a better word, the slightly poorer neighbour by the Starting new enterprise is crucial on our high streets, council. particularly with many of our chain stores retrenching. Mr Jones: My hon. Friend makes an extremely important We need to reinvigorate our independent shopkeepers. point. With regard to the local shopping on offer, Street markets and indoor markets are an important Bedworth is an extremely important player, even if it is route to doing that. In my constituency we have an not as large or always as vibrant as Nuneaton. award-winning street market on Wednesdays and Saturdays Town centre teams would give more teeth and which often has more than 150 stalls. As in the case of opportunity for more detailed public-private sector car parking, which I shall come to shortly, local authorities engagement, which could go beyond the operational, must be careful to make sure that markets are not just micro issues, that town centre partnerships and BIDs cash cows and income generators for the local authority, deal with, and cover strategic issues, helping to shape but are there for the benefit of the local community and the vision for our town centres. The proposal would the local town centre. allow landlords to become investors in town teams or That brings me to ways of allowing businesses to super-BIDs, and would seek to strengthen that vision flourish. Lower taxation and less regulation are the keys for town centres with the possibility of leveraging in to unlocking that potential, although we should be further private investment. The all-party group secretariat, careful not to throw the baby out with the bath water. the Association of Town Centre Management, very Through deregulation—for example, the deregulation much advocates that approach and is convinced that of pedlars—we could end up with a situation where there is real will on the part of the private sector to pedlars can turn up and trade alongside market traders, make a major contribution to this. without paying any rent or rates. The market traders who have traditionally been on our high streets will find Dame Joan Ruddock (Lewisham, Deptford) (Lab): I themselves at a disadvantage. congratulate the hon. Gentleman on securing the debate. Car parking is a major issue. There is a case study in Does he agree that if we are trying to attract investment, the Portas review that mentions Swindon, and my hon. the proliferation of betting shops taking over premises Friend the Member for North Swindon (Justin Tomlinson) from the closure of banks and building societies, which will probably elaborate on that. Although I acknowledge has happened in Deptford high street in my constituency, the restraint on both Government and local government is a disincentive and spoils the diversity of our high budgets, further direct action on car parking charges streets, which is so important and which we need to must be explored. It would be fantastic if a pilot scheme hold on to or bring back? could be run to see whether we could bring in free Mr Jones: Betting shops are an important part of our short-stay parking that would have the effect that we are town centres and high streets, as I am sure the right looking for. The pilot should be run in a constituency, hon. Lady would acknowledge, and they offer valuable and I would make the argument for that to be my employment. However, the proliferation of betting shops Nuneaton constituency, but other right hon. and hon. has been caused to some extent by the provisions of the Members probably have other ideas on that. licensing legislation in relation to the number of machines There is also an inherent unfairness in how the business that such businesses can have. That needs looking at rates regime applies to town centre car parks and out- and Mary Portas refers to it in her report. of-town-centre car parks, and we need to look at that 627 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 628 Streets Streets carefully to ensure that we allow our town centres to The retail sector’s prospects for 2012 are not good. operate on a level playing field. As Mary Portas rightly Hardly a day goes by without another high street brand pointed out, we need to look carefully at planning in going into administration; Peacocks has already been our town centres. My hon. Friend the Member for mentioned. Consumer confidence is exceptionally low. Henley (John Howell) mentioned the national planning Although that is clearly impacting on the larger retail policy framework, and we must ensure that the “town multiples, it is also having a devastating impact on centre first” policy and the sequential test are retained independent retailers, a group of businesses that do not in the framework. I also think that it is important that always have a voice—or rather, are not always heard—in office development is included, because although we debates about the economy. That is why I believe that must not deny out-of-town development, we must ensure commissioning the Portas review was an inspired decision. that it is proportionate and meets the needs of a particular It inevitably shines light on the smaller retailers that area. provide the diversity and quality customer service that I note your comments about time, Mr Speaker, and enhance our high streets. appreciate that many right hon. and hon. Members There has been much press coverage of Rochdale’s wish to speak. By bringing the matter before the House, town centre in recent months, not least because McDonald’s I sincerely hope that we will have a positive debate, that has decided to leave, and because we have a disproportionate our views will prevail and that the Minister will go away number of charity shops. In reality, however, our town loaded with positive ideas from Back-Bench Members has a great retail offer. Businesses such as Chantilly, that can be fed into the Government’s review. I firmly 25 Ten, Denis Hope, Bragg and the Number Ten Gallery believe that the British people instinctively wish to see are perfect examples of the high-quality independents our high streets and town centres not only survive, but that enhance Rochdale’s high street, but Rochdale, like flourish and prosper, as they form one of the unique towns throughout the country, needs the Government components that make up the UK. to act more quickly and responsibly.

Mary Macleod (Brentford and Isleworth) (Con): Will Bob Stewart (Beckenham) (Con): It is terribly important my hon. Friend join me in commending the Mayor of to point out that the issue is not just about retail, but London, who today announced £177 million of targeted about attracting people into town centres. Beckenham regeneration investment for town centres and local high used to be a wonderful place to go, but it is getting streets, of which Brentford and Isleworth will receive shoddier and shoddier, and we need more funding to £4.8 million? make such areas good places for people to go—even if they are going there not to spend any money, but just Mr Jones: That is fantastic news, and just the sort of for social reasons. support that our town centres and high streets need. It is extremely important that we support our high streets Simon Danczuk: I agree, and the Portas review makes and town centres not only as Members of Parliament, the point that town centres are not just about retail, but but as individuals, and that at all times we promote their about being a community magnet that brings people in cause so that they are there for hundreds of years to for a variety of reasons. One problem is that the Portas come, as they have been for us all thus far. review was delayed for months, and came to us late, but it is also disappointing that the Minister has decided Several hon. Members rose— not to respond until the spring. The review makes a host of recommendations, practically Mr Speaker: Order. In view of the level of interest, all of which I welcome, but it also pushes a disproportionate and as has been made clear on the Annunciator, I have amount of responsibility on to local government. We imposed a seven-minute limit on Back-Bench speeches. all know that towns such as Rochdale have received devastating cuts from this Government, so it will not be 4.12 pm easy for local authorities to implement some of the recommendations, such as discounted business rates. Simon Danczuk (Rochdale) (Lab): I congratulate the Local councils can help with national market day, and Backbench Business Committee and the hon. Member set up town teams, as Members have said, but it is for for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on securing this important central Government to take responsibility for the major debate. The state of our high streets and town centres is issues affecting our town centres. important not only for our local economies and for providing jobs, but for strengthening our local communities. On planning, as the review recommends, the Government I think that setting up the Portas review of the high must put the town centre first, and following their street was an inspired decision by the Government, consultation on the national planning policy framework, although Members will not be surprised to hear that I I get the impression that they will. I believe that they have concerns about how the Government are supporting will make that change to the draft NPPF. the retail sector. But the Government need to go further than the Retail is our country’s largest private sector employer review, and we would benefit from looking at how credit and accounts for 20% of the UK’s gross domestic insurance works in the retail sector, and at how the lack product. The sector accounts for 40% of employment of credit insurance for wholesalers and suppliers makes for the under-20s and pays 28% of all business rates. it difficult for businesses to manage cash flow and, Now that the Government have achieved a youth ultimately, to survive. A Government scheme to assist unemployment level of over 1 million and failed to suppliers with credit insurance would certainly help. replace the public sector jobs that have been cut with The review makes some welcome recommendations private sector jobs, we can see how important the sector on business rates, and Mary Portas is right to highlight is to the health of our economy. the adverse impact of business rate levels on our high 629 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 630 Streets Streets [Simon Danczuk] families, as three of our grown-up children and their spouses have joined us in our little community, which streets. In Rochdale, retailers that are closing have cited was described, when I became a Minister in 1996, as an high business rates, but the Government have just introduced evangelical community on the edge of Dartmoor. That the biggest hike in such rates for 20 years—an increase sounds very alternative, but it is nothing like that. With of 5.6%. That is just not sustainable for small businesses three families of a younger generation, it seems that the on our high street. delivery vans arrive several times a day as a result of their internet shopping. We grandparents are not really Mark Tami (Alyn and Deeside) (Lab): Does my hon. doing it, but the younger generation are. This is a very Friend agree that there is also a problem with bank new assault on the high street. lending to enable high-street shops to invest and bring That is why I strongly support what is perhaps the their businesses up to the standard that we all expect in key recommendation of the report—that a new vision this day and age? for the high street must recognise that it is not just about retail but about culture, community and leisure. We Simon Danczuk: That is absolutely right. Bank lending must make a visit to the high street or the town centre is a real problem for small businesses, and one that the like a day out. It should be a pleasurable experience, Government need to address in terms of the larger and not just about retail. economic situation. Returning to business rates, I also highlight the problem Mr Mark Spencer (Sherwood) (Con): Does my hon. with the Valuation Office Agency. I recently had a Friend agree that many of those who make purchases Rochdale bar owner attend my surgery, describing how on the internet take the trouble to visit the high street the VOA had told him that it assumed his takings would and look at the product that they wish to purchase, only be about £179,000 per year—a figure that he could only to go home and buy it more cheaply on the internet? dream of achieving. I know from my own dealings with Without the high street, that market simply would not the VOA that its performance leaves a lot to be desired. work. Not only is it difficult to deal with, it is also slow to act. Thousands of businesses in Greater Manchester have Mr Streeter: I think that that is right, although my appealed against the new business rate valuations, yet daughter and son-in-law spend most of their time browsing the VOA admitted that in 2010 it could deal with only not in the shops but online, and make their purchasing 3% of the appeals made, leaving a massive backlog that decisions in that way. Either way, of course, is good. still needs clearing. The VOA is now refusing to publish High streets will never compete with the internet or what percentage of appeals are successful—presumably out-of-town shopping centres on retail alone. That is to discourage businesses from challenging its valuations. the important point that the report tells us. We should not underestimate the impact that business My constituency of South West Devon has three rates and the VOA are having on the high street. I urge shopping centres: Plympton, Plymstock and Ivybridge. the Government to give those issues more urgent attention. Most of those communities will be well known to I started by mentioning consumer confidence. We colleagues in this House. Over the nearly 20 years in cannot underestimate the adverse impact that our country’s which I have been privileged to represent those communities, economy is having on our high streets. For all the I have seen the ebbs and flows of the high street. It is tweaks and adaptations that can be made locally, it is right to say that local people want to support their town the level of unemployment, the fear of becoming centres, but it is important that the offer from them is unemployed, the lack of credit for small businesses and right and attractive. high inflation that will make or break our high streets. To conclude, the Portas review provides worthwhile Mary Macleod: Will my hon. Friend give way? recommendations on which the Government can act, but there needs to be urgent action, and the Government Mr Streeter: I will of course give way, but for the last need to recognise the effect that their economic policies time. are having on our high streets. Mary Macleod: Does my hon. Friend agree that market days have a role to play in the high street to give 4.20 pm shoppers something different? On Saturday, he is welcome Mr Gary Streeter (South West Devon) (Con): I am to come to the Turnham Green terrace market day in pleased to be taking part in this debate about the health Chiswick, in west London. of our high streets and town centres. I will risk making the passing comment that to see so many colleagues Mr Streeter: I am grateful to my hon. Friend. She is here to take part in a debate with a one-line Whip absolutely right. However, if I had a choice between suggests that there is not a lot wrong with the health of being in Devon or Chiswick on a Saturday, I know our Parliament. It is an encouraging sight. I commend which one I would choose. [HON.MEMBERS: “Oh!”] I my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) suspect that most of my colleagues would say exactly for triggering this debate, and Mary Portas for producing the same thing. an excellent report on our high streets and town centres. I thought that it would be helpful if, drawing on this High streets and town centres have been under assault excellent report and my experiences over the past 20 years, for many years from out-of-town shopping centres. I came up with the five golden rules for regenerating our Perhaps that horse has now bolted, but there is the new town centres and high streets. The first is to have local threat of internet purchasing. That is, in part, a generational leadership. The hon. Member for Rochdale (Simon thing. In the place where I live now there are four Danczuk) spoke eloquently about what the Government 631 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 632 Streets Streets should do, but let us talk about what the local community countryside for many generations. However, I say to should do. Bottom-up local leadership is crucial in sparking them that we do not want our town centres or high the regeneration of our town centres and high streets. I streets to be museums. We need much more flexible give the example of Ivybridge town council, which planning laws. I agree with Mary Portas that we should already has in place a neighbourhood plan and has change the law on use classes to make it much easier to engaged the Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment change from one high street use to another. I suspect to come up with a brand new vision for the town centre. that planning officers in many parts of the world need a paradigm shift. In too many places, their default position Rehman Chishti (Gillingham and Rainham) (Con): is to say no and then try to justify it. I hope that our Will my hon. Friend give way? planning guidance, which has somehow got stuck somewhere in the system in the past few weeks, will be Mr Streeter: I will not, if my hon. Friend does not introduced early in this new year to encourage and mind. I have given way twice already, and I have an incentivise local planning officers to allow new life to be awful lot to say. breathed into our high streets. We need much more flexibility, because our high streets must not be left as a Ivybridge town council is very keen on the report that museum. Mary Portas has produced and hopes that the Government While I am on the subject of planning, it is worth will formulate a number of policies to make it a reality. saying that sometimes English Heritage does not help Local leadership, particularly from the energetic town us. I am sure my hon. Friend the Member for Plymouth, clerk of Ivybridge, Lesley Hughes, is a crucial part of Sutton and Devonport (Oliver Colvile) will agree that taking forward the regeneration of our town centres. the decision to list Plymouth civic centre as some kind Two of the other areas that I have mentioned, Plympton of historic and beautiful building, when it is probably and Plymstock, are suburbs of Plymouth and do not the ugliest thing outside Dudley, is absolutely disgraceful. have their own town councils, and we can see a real [Interruption.] Have I got myself in trouble there? I difference in how they grip the need for a new vision. think I probably have. My second point is about the buy-in of the other Fifthly, landowners and developers need to be brought local authorities involved. Whether they are district into the equation, and they need to be much more councils, county councils or unitary authorities, it is creative. I shall finish by returning to Ivybridge, where very important that all the relevant authorities are there is a development called Glanvilles Mill that is full involved in bringing forward new visions. They need to of empty or half-empty shops. We need much more be brought together on issues such as land ownership, creativity in establishing a new development to bring parking, highways and various other powers. Ivybridge into the 21st century. We have heard talk of the important part that business I commend the report to the Government, and I hope rates can play in town centre regeneration. The Minister that at the end of the debate the Minister will tell us that for Housing and Local Government is listening to me he supports it completely and will bring in a lot of new right now, and I say to him that the Government need policies to make it happen. to encourage and incentivise local authorities to make more creative use of business rates collected locally to 4.30 pm underpin and support local businesses and new economic development in their communities. Let us find ways of Jim Dowd (Lewisham West and Penge) (Lab): I am doing that. sorely tempted to throw my notes away and to join the hon. Member for South West Devon (Mr Streeter) in Thirdly, I wish to mention car parking. I have been castigating English Heritage, but I shall resist. through 20 or 30 years of town planners, architects and academics telling us that we need to build sustainable I thank the Backbench Business Committee for allowing communities with the car designed out of them. I am this debate and all those Members who approached the sorry, but it has not worked. Whether it is right or Committee, of whom I was one. The debate is a reflection wrong, the people of this country have chosen the car. of their wisdom, because this issue clearly excites interest For most of us, in our rural communities, the car is on both sides of the House and across the country, absolutely essential. In many parts of my community largely because everybody has a local high street and a there not one bus a day but one bus a week, and if local town centre—not just Members of Parliament, someone misses it by two minutes they are in for a long but individual citizens. The importance of the welfare wait. It is essential to provide space for car parking in of high streets and town centres cannot be overestimated. the regeneration of our town centres and high streets, The issues around town centres and high streets are and for that parking to be either free, very reasonably perennial. I join others in welcoming the Government’s priced, or free for a certain period. We are all lazy. commissioning of a report from Mary Portas and her work. The report introduces some new language, and I also support “pop and shop” schemes whereby anyone who reads it can tell that it has been written not people can park outside a shop for a few moments even by a planning professional or a civil servant, but by in a pedestrianised or semi-pedestrianised area, to pick somebody whose main qualification is in the business up their dry cleaning, get cash out of the bank, buy the about which they are speaking and whose enthusiasm is grandchildren an ice cream or whatever. I am afraid patently transparent. That runs through the whole report. that the idea of designing out the car is now old-fashioned I am not quite familiar with a few expressions in the and has to be consigned to the dustbin of history. Car report—I do not know what she means by a “three- parking must be at the heart of what happens. dimensional retailing experience”—but we can forgive Fourthly, we need flexible planning. In the west country that kind of hyperbole when the essence of what she we have a lot of rural areas and a lot of rural planning addresses is so critical to the health of so many of our authorities that have done a great job of preserving our communities. 633 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 634 Streets Streets [Jim Dowd] the comparable figure for small and independent retailers is £100,000. So, small and independent retailers are I notice that the Government say they will have their much more likely than large ones to produce employment. response out by the spring, which I think means the day They are also much more likely to be used by people before the House rises in the summer, whatever date in locally, and the value stays within the local community July that might be. I hope the Minister takes into rather than being exported to a national centre elsewhere. account what people say and how important this issue They are also of much greater value to the community is. I sometimes worry about Ministers’ responses to in terms of social cohesion as well as retailing. Backbench Business Committee debates. They accept Some 10 years ago, I was approached by the Independent motions—although there are no specifics in today’s Retailers Confederation at an event here in the House, motion—but spend all their time during their speeches and we had further discussions. I then tabled an early-day explaining why they do not agree with them. I hope that motion relating to retail crime and under-age purchasing, that will not be the case today. which highlighted the fact that although those issues High streets and town centres mean different things apply to all retailers, they present a bigger challenge and in different parts of the country—they mean different have a greater effect on small retailers than they do on things in urban areas, semi-urban areas, towns and the large multiples. I know that some Members take a villages—but in both this country and around the world, proprietorial—almost parental—interest in their early-day the common denominator is that the local market, motions, e-mailing and writing to everyone to ask them however we describe it, is a key ingredient of the local to sign them. I take a much more hands-off approach, community. In many ways, it defines the local community. however; I table them and send them off to find their As others have said, it is not just a place of trade and own place in the world. So, I submitted the EDM with exchange, but a place of social interaction and opportunity, only my name on it, but within a week, it had attracted a meeting place and a centre for all kinds of activity, not about 88 signatures. merely retail. I spoke to some of the Members who had supported There are many different aspects of the high street my motion, and it became clear that although there had debate. I agree with the hon. Member for South West been an all-party parliamentary retail group for many Devon that the threat is no longer from new out-of-town years, there was a strong feeling that its work did not developments. Time will tell whether we have sold the reflect the interests of small and independent retailers. I pass on that and whether we allowed too many am not criticising its work at all; I think that it is a developments in previous years with which the traditional valuable adjunct to the work of the House and the local ribbon high streets must contend, but the threat is interests of its Members. It is fronted by the British not from new developments. Retail Consortium, which is an estimable organisation Robert Halfon: I am listening to the hon. Gentleman’s that does a good job of representing its interests. However, thoughtful speech. He says that local retail centres are the consortium effectively represents large retail traders not a threat, but all the retail centres in Harlow are very and multiples. That is perfectly legitimate, but the idea popular and have a huge advantage because they have that it represents small and independent businesses is free parking. People can park outside the door and go just plain wrong. We need only to look at its membership about their daily business at the retail centres, whereas lists to discover that fact. It includes some online businesses many shopping precincts—not just in Harlow, but all that have no trading premises, but, apart from those, its around the country—are paved over and very difficult idea of a small trader with only one outlet is Harrod’s to park near, and many have parking charges. Does he or Fortnum and Mason. They are not small retailers, by agree that free parking would make a huge difference, as anyone’s definition. my hon. Friend the Member for South West Devon We then formed the all-party parliamentary small (Mr Streeter) suggested? shops group. I am particularly indebted to the hon. Members for Colchester (Sir Bob Russell) and for Kettering Jim Dowd: I shall come to that in a moment. Perhaps (Mr Hollobone), and to the hon. Member for Ribble I have not made myself clear. I do not think that the Valley (Mr Evans), now the First Deputy Chairman of threat comes from new developments, the construction Ways and Means, as well as to the right hon. Member of which seems largely to have abated, as the hon. for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey (Danny Member for South West Devon pointed out. The fear is Alexander), now the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, and that we have already created too many of them, and to my hon. Friend the Member for Llanelli (Nia Griffith). that they will still have an effect on the traditional town We undertook to establish an inquiry, along the lines of centres and high streets. that of a Select Committee, into the future of the high street. It was the first report of its kind, and it attracted Dr Sarah Wollaston (Totnes) (Con): Does the hon. a lot of attention. We made a number of recommendations, Gentleman agree that our high streets have a wider role most of which were ignored. Some, however, were enacted, in supporting local supply chains and increasing local and some were partly enacted. There is, however, a resilience? In some areas, there is still a threat not only wealth of information, material and advice on the future from out-of-town developments but from large distribution of the high street, of which Mary Portas’s report is just depots, which are merely displacing jobs rather than the latest. There is also the all-party small shops group’s creating new ones. report from seven years ago and reports from the Evening Standard and various community groups and academic Jim Dowd: That is indeed true. organisations. I hope that the Government will take I was involved in producing a report a few years ago, long-overdue action and relentlessly pursue a policy in and we discovered that, in the large retail sector, it takes the interests of retailers of all sizes and the communities £150,000 worth of turnover to support one job, whereas that they serve. 635 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 636 Streets Streets 4.40 pm Gareth Johnson: My hon. Friend extends a kind invitation but he need not have because I have visited Gareth Johnson (Dartford) (Con): I congratulate my Harlow shopping centre many times. It was a very hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on pleasant experience, but I do not agree with the assertion showing great leadership through his work on the all-party made by some—not by him—that we can make high town centres group and in securing this debate. The group streets better by making out-of-town shopping centres goes from strength to strength under his chairmanship. worse. That is simply not the case. We need to ensure I also congratulate the Backbench Business Committee that both shopping destinations are vibrant. on allowing this debate to take place, because hardly a constituency in the country is not affected by this issue and there is hardly a high street not in need of improvement Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP): Does the hon. and enhancement. Member think that although the high streets might offer certain qualities and a particular type of shopping Many Members have referred to their own high streets experience to shoppers, they also need the prices and and constituencies, and I shall be no different because I the bargains? I do not do any of the shopping—my wife represent the market town of Dartford, which, despite a does that, and she always looks for the bargains, as I am planned regeneration project, has to contend with all the sure is the case with every hon. Lady in the House. difficulties that every high street in the country has to deal with. However, I also represent Bluewater, which is Gareth Johnson: The hon. Gentleman makes a good one of the largest out-of-town shopping centres in Europe, point. People will always be out bargain hunting when so a special range of challenges affects the local area. they are shopping. My wife is exactly the same, but I have found that high streets do best when they there is also a place for quality in the marketplace. adapt to changing times and offer something different Let me make some progress. Mary Portas has said from out-of-town centres, but that difference can be that out-of-town shopping centres are responsible for part of their strength. That is often overlooked by high job displacement. Bluewater shopping centre employs street managers. Out-of-town shopping centres and high some 15,000 people. I simply do not accept that that streets are not the same but offer alternative experiences. number of people lost their jobs in the local high streets We should not lose sight of the differences between the as a result of Bluewater opening. If these assertions are two, and so we should not approach them and their incorrect for Bluewater and north Kent, I presume that needs in the same way. they do not apply elsewhere either. Many hon. Members have mentioned the report written by Mary Portas, and there is much to commend in that In many ways, the success of many our out-of-town report, but I disagree with some aspects of it. Sadly, shopping centres helps to highlight what is needed in Mary Portas is very disparaging about out-of-town our high streets. In short, high streets can learn from centres, yet that negative approach is misplaced. She out-of-town shopping centres. High streets need to become asserts that out-of-town centres have a negative social attractive, safe locations for people to spend their time, and environmental impact on the areas where they are day or night; they need to be attractive to families and situated. That is simply not my experience. I am not to people who will want to spend quality time there. sure what negative impact they have on the environment in which they are situated. On the social impact, in my Glyn Davies (Montgomeryshire) (Con): Does my hon. experience, they have a positive, not a negative, impact Friend agree that as much as anything else, town centres on the local area. When I visit Bluewater shopping must remain accessible and that planning authorities centre, I see families enjoying meals out, cinema visits have too much of a tendency to force change in transport and socialising with others. This is a good thing for the systems, like imposing one-way systems or parking local area and is part of the positive social impact that restrictions? In so doing, they are often limiting the Bluewater, for example, has had on my local area. town centre; they want to force a retailer to pay just because it has come into the town. Mr James Gray (North Wiltshire) (Con): I am glad to hear about the families enjoying themselves at Bluewater, Gareth Johnson: My hon. Friend makes a good point. but does my hon. Friend not agree that if they are Of course town centres need to be accessible. Perhaps enjoying themselves there—or, indeed, at Cribbs Causeway the most popular way of achieving that is through car or other out-of-town shopping centres—in the way that parking provisions. This is how shoppers want to do he described, it means that they are not doing so in the their shopping; if they have heavy shopping bags, they town centres? might not wish to use public transport, however good it is. Gareth Johnson: Yes, but I do not feel that it is an It is essential that high streets offer more than just either/or situation. Many families can enjoy both the shopping. Too many high streets look the same and high streets and the out-of-town shopping centres, but offer the same as each other, so they need a diverse in different ways. Very often, out-of-town shopping range of attractions. High streets are facing an increasing centres can be destinations that people enjoy. range of challenges. Yes, the economic downturn has hit the high street hard, and it continues to do so. As my Robert Halfon: I invite my hon. Friend to the Harvey hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton said, internet shopping centre in Harlow. It is a wonderful shopping shopping has also had an impact. High streets that offer centre integrated with shops in the local town centre. something different can often flourish. Farmers’ markets Does he not agree, though, that the answer to his draw people into the high street and continental food conundrum is to have a level playing field, as I mentioned markets are also extremely popular. Ensuring that there earlier, so that high streets have the same rights as is a permanent residential population in the town centre shopping malls and out-of-town centres? is important, too, in order to avoid high streets looking 637 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 638 Streets Streets [Gareth Johnson] some well-known brands pull out. A growing school of thought believes that the internet, and specifically the like ghost towns after dark. Having an effective town evolution of multichannel and social media, provides a centre forum or chamber of commerce working with significant opportunity for the future success of our local councillors and planners can help to ensure that towns and cities. The good news is that about a fifth of ideas and plans are thought through before they are all internet transactions in the UK involve some in-store implemented. research, so internet shopping does not mean that people What I welcome in Mary Portas’ report is her support are abandoning the high street. for a team approach to high street planning. I also Analysis by Experian has revealed that one in support her suggestion of tackling the number of empty 10 consumers use their mobile phones or “tablets” in shops we see in the high street. We should not single out stores to check the price of goods elsewhere before banks, which she suggests we should, but should target deciding whether to buy, and that nearly 31% of the all retailers on this issue. Her report suggests that councillors UK population now fall into the category of multi-channel should be given the power to tackle situations where, as shoppers: those who use the internet, trips to stores, the right hon. Member for Lewisham, Deptford (Dame price checks on mobile devices, and advice from friends Joan Ruddock) pointed out, there is a problem with the and their “virtual” networks to decide whether to make number of betting shops in a particular area. I disagree a purchase. It is clearly not as simple as shoppers with Mary Portas, as we should not single out betting deserting the high street for their computers or mobile shops; we should adopt the same approach to all retailers devices. Indeed, a factor identified in the same report is and prevent any one kind of retailer from monopolising the frustration with online shopping that is driving a particular street or particular part of the high street. consumers back to the high street. The report states In conclusion, the future prosperity of British high that 60% of online shoppers have expressed frustration streets is one of the biggest challenges the country faces. about the arrival of deliveries while they were out, and There is no simple solution to the problem. It seems, that 50% have received products that they did not however, that with innovation, team work and an consider to match the online description. understanding of the needs of the people, high streets It is for those reasons that many high street stores are could once again flourish in this country. offering more flexible “click and collect” purchasing, which enables customers to shop online and collect in Several hon. Members rose— stores. The number of non-food retail purchases to which that applies is expected to increase from a fifth to Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): Order. Given a third by 2020. Some companies are also encouraging that a number of Members wish to catch the eye of the customers to browse online in kiosks in their own Chair, I shall now reduce the time limit to five minutes. I stores, or are providing showrooms where customers want to ensure that everyone can contribute, so I ask can browse and receive specialist advice. All those factors Members to exercise some restraint in interventions. are attracting shoppers back to the high street, and are Members who wish both to intervene and to speak will providing opportunities for retailers who get their strategy be placed lower on the list. Let me reassure Members right to survive. that I want to treat everyone as fairly as possible. Big names with collection points and web kiosks that have embraced the internet could in future provide an 4.49 pm attractive anchor for town centres, and draw people into the high street. That in turn could increase investment Ann Coffey (Stockport) (Lab): We all want our town in town centres, and enable each town to develop its centres to be successful, and to provide employment own unique offer of, for instance, markets, independent and high-quality goods and services for the local community. specialist shops and cultural attractions. That, as Mary In my constituency, more than 5,700 people are employed Portas says, is the key to high street success. in the retail sector, but, like other town centres, Stockport is facing the challenges posed by changing shopping Gloria De Piero (Ashfield) (Lab): Last month Eastwood habits. One of the challenges is undoubtedly the growth lost its only shoe shop because Jonathan James went in internet sales, which currently account for 12.2% of into liquidation. Does my hon. Friend agree that a all sales. Some estimates suggest that e-commerce accounted healthy economy is central to a healthy high street? for nearly half of the retail sales growth in the United Kingdom between 2003 and 2010, and we have seen a Ann Coffey: Absolutely, and the difficulty that retailers dramatic increase of more than 500% in “m-commerce”— currently face is partly due to the consequences of the sales over mobile devices—in the past two years. wider economic conditions. I also agree with Mary Portas In every town centre the well-known retail brands that it is important for town centre partnerships to have a presence, and, together with independent retailers work together to meet the new challenges, and for and markets, they have been the face of the high street councils to provide access to shopping and adequate in town after town. However, it is becoming clear that parking. Innovative retailers can harness the power of because of changes in shopping habits, retailers are the internet and e-commerce to change the way in going to need fewer shops. Some big names have announced which they do business. that they are considering whether they have the right number and size of stores, including Arcadia, the owner Rehman Chishti: Does my hon. Friend agree that of BHS, which is examining the future of 260 stores. local authorities need show stronger leadership and I believe that the challenge is for retailers to harness come up with more innovative ideas, such as Medway the power of the internet in ways that can benefit them council’s card that gives people discounts when they use and stop the decline of town centres accelerating as local facilities such as restaurants and theatres? 639 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 640 Streets Streets Ann Coffey: I entirely agree. In a debate before Christmas, My constituency of Edinburgh West is a collection of I talked about a unique offer in Stockport that combined communities close to a major city centre. Corstorphine discounts at cultural venues and in shops. Locally, there is at the heart of the constituency and has what would is a lot of similar innovative thinking about how we probably best be described as a traditional high street: might attract people back into our town centres. linear in appearance and with all the usual amenities In October 2011 a well-known retailer opened a store one would expect, including a butcher, a baker—but no without any stock. Customers select their product on candlestick maker—hairdressers, dentists, estate agents, iPads for delivery to the store or to their homes. The charity shops and pubs. Department for Business, Innovation and Skills research published alongside the Portas review noted that this Roger Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire) (LD): Does was my hon. Friend agree that another facility we would “an innovative use of bringing the internet to high street”. expect to find on our high streets is a branch of a bank? However, in my constituency Barclays has closed its Another big retailer has also reported “strong multi- branch in Rhayader high street and HSBC is going to channel” sales growth and plans to extend web kiosks in close its branch in Presteigne. Such closures pull our small stores to give access to a wider range of products, high streets still further downwards. We should let and a further influential company said that the success banks know that we expect them to respect the communities of its “click and collect” option had been so great that it they serve. planned to double the number of collection points in its stores. That is good news for town centres and it illustrates the fact that we should not see internet shopping as a Mike Crockart: That is an important point, but we threat—it can be harnessed to bring vibrancy and shoppers can hope that that problem will be addressed by the back to our high streets. welcome widening of competition through Virgin Money, the Co-operative Bank and others opening on our high Like many people, I shop on the internet but also streets. enjoy the social aspect of shopping in my local town centre and Stockport market. Like many of us, I do not High street businesses and the services they provide want to lose the socialising opportunities that a vibrant would be missed if they were to go, but the majority of town centre and market can offer or the sense of being people still do their shopping at the Tesco Extra, or part of a community that they provide, but nor do I other superstore, down the road. It has parking, everything want to lose the convenience of shopping online in the is under one roof and for some products it is more evening. We need to get the balance right for both to competitively priced. I fear that many high street shops thrive nationally and locally. That is the challenge facing do well because of an older generation for whom they us all in reviving and developing our town centres. provide a social amenity. That is worrying for their future. Several hon. Members rose— The high streets in Kirkliston and in Davidson’s Mains, which are also in my constituency, are surviving Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): Order. As but they are arguably not thriving. People can walk to so many Members are seeking to catch my eye, I shall the shops and businesses, which are friendly and provide reduce the time limit on speeches still further if there a focal point for the community, but not many new are frequent interventions. I hope colleagues will heed businesses are moving in; growth has stalled, it would that warning and try to restrain themselves. appear. But in another area, South Queensferry, the high street is bustling. Why is that? It is because it is a completely different entity. It is a tourist attraction, 4.56 pm where small independent shops are found alongside Mike Crockart (Edinburgh West) (LD): I welcome well-respected one-off hotels and restaurants. It has a today’s debate and the opportunity to discuss this most clear strength and is playing to it. In the other areas, it important issue. When thinking about my contribution would be a positive step if the local communities, authorities, today, I was reminded of the following headline in The planners and business leaders were given the opportunity Guardian in 2009: “Empty, unlet and unloved: the new to talk frankly about the direction in which they should British high street.” Over the past few years, we have and could move. become very aware of the demise of our high streets. The Portas review makes 28 recommendations, covering Challenging economic circumstances, stretched consumers many things that I do not propose to discuss in any great and a new breed of large out-of-town shopping centres detail. All of them are important parts of the solution, and supermarkets are all part of the problem, but we in but the experience in Edinburgh shows that the solution central and local government must also shoulder some for each area—each separate high street—will be different of the blame. Above all, we must take the problems and will need different elements of all these suggestions seriously and act now to halt the damage already done. and many others if there is to be success. Local involvement I therefore welcome the independent Portas review and will be key to delivering that. In England, the focus will its recommendations on the future of our high streets. be on the national planning policy framework, but in The findings seem sensible and offer a pragmatic, systematic Scotland I await the national planning framework 2 way forward. monitoring report from the Scottish Government to see When choosing where to shop, many people become whether progress will be made. flippant about the struggle our high streets face. I, too, Finally, I wish briefly to discuss new technologies, which am guilty of that. We do not automatically associate were mentioned by the previous speaker, and their role our shopping transactions with the survival of the high in the success or decline of our high streets and town street. We think someone else will shop there or use its centres. The growth of online shopping has often been services. That attitude needs to change. associated with the decline of familiar high street names— 641 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 642 Streets Streets [Mike Crockart] My constituency is blessed with a long-established market in Prestatyn. A market has just been established Woolworths and HMV, to name but two—and I cannot in Rhyl by a man called Ray Worsnop without a penny argue wholly against that view. Indeed, Interactive Media from the public purse. He set it up, he made mistakes in Retail Group forecasts from last year suggested that but it is now up to 50 stalls strong in the centre of Rhyl high street spending would drop by 2% over Christmas high street. When someone is trying to establish a new while online spending would increase by 16% and that market there are often tensions in the community. As 25% of seasonal shopping would take place online, with Mary Portas says, we should establish markets and even 12% being made via a mobile. Some 58% of large stores car boot sales in the town centre. now have mobile websites; m-commerce is beginning to have a huge impact. Jim Shannon: As the hon. Gentleman says, the Portas However, modern technology is not always the enemy. review is very important. It mentions America and In the more rural part of my constituency, residents and France, but not good practice in Northern Ireland. One business owners face cripplingly slow broadband connection example of that is the chamber of trade working with speeds. I am campaigning for improvements, because the council to provide financial incentives, such as reduced not only do residents have a right to fast, reliable car parking charges and a transport system that brings internet connections, but businesses need them in order people from the edge of towns to the centre. to flourish and grow. I have been contacted by numerous business owners who say that the poor connection slows down card transactions in their restaurants, that without Chris Ruane: I absolutely agree. We should look not a website that they can update quickly and easily their just to England but to England, Scotland, Wales, Northern business suffers and that any subsidiary online shopping Ireland and beyond. If best practice is out there, let us facilities are limited because of the poor provision. If bring it back to our high streets. I welcome the hon. the connection could be improved, the online might not Gentleman’s intervention. always lead to off-street sales. Markets, as Mary Portas said, will be integral, but The key to saving our high streets lies in allowing how do we establish new markets? What are the lessons them to diversify to meet diverse demand. In some to be learned? She also mentions the social aspect of areas, such as South Queensferry, this will be achieved town centres. In Rhyl, we are trying to bring the town through tourism, whereas in others, such as Corstorphine, alive. The piazzas and public performance areas are it will occur through meeting local needs. I believe that empty. Youngchildren who have trained for the children’s this Government are willing to work with local communities, eisteddfod go down to Cardiff to perform, but do not authorities and businesses large and small to turn the perform in their own high street. We have a folk club, a tide. It is a refreshing and very welcome attitude. jazz club, a music club and an operatic society: they 5.3 pm should be doing public performances. There should be dwell time within a town centre, so people can sit, listen Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab): I welcome the and talk. That is what Mary Portas is saying and we Portas review, which is well researched. It makes 28 excellent should be listening to her. In Rhyl and Prestatyn, which recommendations, many of which I agree with. Portas are seaside towns, we have promenades. The word mentions out-of-town supermarkets and shopping centres. “promenade” means “to walk”. We do not do enough My constituency has not had any of those for 15 years; walking or socialising. We are all on this treadmill of it has had town centre supermarkets and town centre work, work, work and work. We need time to relax and shopping centres, which are a lot better than those out we should be relaxing in our high streets—[Interruption.] of town. However, in Prestatyn, in my constitutency, Especially in Rhyl. Somerfield and Tesco each owned half of one such site, and I believe that some of the supermarkets have land Mary Portas also addresses the issue of empty shops, banks. These are not so much about developing their and a lot more can be done. Empty shops and derelict own stores as about keeping other stores out, and that properties bring a bad image to a town. In my home issue needs addressing if we are to develop town centres. town, Rhyl, about six or seven derelict properties were Where town centre developments are coming, the time filmed by national TV crews over 20 years. A sign outside scale should not be 15 years; it should be a lot shorter. one of the properties had been altered so that it read When these town centre shopping centres are built, the that it was Rhyl’s biggest receiver of stolen goods—nothing impact on the local community should also be assessed. had been sold there for 20 years, but the TV cameras While there is a lot of building, disruption and road would come along and pan across the sign. I went up a works, the Valuation Office Agency should be proactive stepladder with some black paint and painted it out—two and should give businesses the forms to apply for a rate years later, the building was demolished. It should not reduction. This should not be left to happenstance or be left to the antics of a maverick MP to blot such accident. things out; it should be done by the local authority. Let me also pay tribute to Tesco. When it said it was Agreements are already in place; councils have section 215 going to establish stores in my constituency, in Prestatyn powers. I believe that Hastings council is one of the best and at the Cathco site in Denbigh, I wrote and asked in the country in this regard, and I urge other hon. whether it would take 50% of its employees from the Members to look into it. It sent me a full pack that said dole register, and it agreed. There can be some positive exactly what our councils could be doing. Section 215 benefits. If companies are developing near the town action can be taken against derelict properties that centre, they need to be integrated as far as possible with bring the neighbouring properties into disrepute. Those the town centre, with lots of coach parking that will measures are already available, but they are not being benefit not just the shopping centre but the high street, used. Compulsory purchase orders should be used and too. the whole procedure should be streamlined. 643 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 644 Streets Streets There are many excellent suggestions. Mary Portas This is not just about shopping, it is also about also mentions providing a disincentive to landlords to housing. Chippenham is currently looking to expand by leave premises empty, especially when children’s groups, 4,000 or 5,000 houses. This very afternoon, people in local artists and voluntary groups are looking for places Trowbridge at Wiltshire council’s headquarters are to use. It is much better to see a light on in a building considering a strategic way forward for areas such as and actors performing, painters painting or children the Birds Marsh estate, which is just outside my hon. gathering together, than to see windows shuttered and Friend’s constituency but in my constituency. I very covered in Billy Smart’s circus posters, seagull faeces much hope that they will listen to local people, some and all manner of detritus. Empty shops should be 600 or 700 of whom have said they want no further converted into something positive for the community. expansion of the town of Chippenham into my constituency. The same issues apply elsewhere. We have to keep our high streets vibrant by preventing developers 5.9 pm from spreading out into the countryside. Mr James Gray (North Wiltshire) (Con): I shall be That brings me finally to a very interesting case in brief because a large number of hon. Members are trying point—the town of Malmesbury. At the moment, two to catch your eye, Mr Deputy Speaker, and because I applications are in place, one from Waitrose and one suspect that a great many of them, including the hon. from Sainsbury’s, to build out-of-town shopping centres Member for Vale of Clwyd (Chris Ruane), want to say outside Malmesbury. They claim those centres would the same kind of thing and are generally in agreement provide x hundred new jobs, and of course they might, with the excellent Mary Portas report, to which I shall but in reality they would be jobs that currently exist. not refer further except to say that I broadly support They claim that Malmesbury would benefit under most of its 28 proposals. section 106 agreements because there would be buses Hon. Members with an idle moment or two might find from Sainsbury’s car park into the town centre and it amusing to look at my first-class website jamesgray.org, there would be a staircase from the Waitrose up to the which was done not by me but by others, where they will town centre. They say, “There would be all sorts of find among other things, very wickedly, a video clip of benefits for the people of Malmesbury. Aren’t they my maiden speech. If they watch that they will see a lucky to have us, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose, coming to fresh-faced, dark-haired, slender and keen young fellow build in the town?” But, no, we are not lucky at all. speaking from these very Benches some 15 years ago. Waitrose and Sainsbury’s are going there for one reason only: to make a profit for their shareholders out of Chris Ruane: What happened? selling groceries to passing trade. That is of no benefit whatever to the town of Malmesbury, and I very much hope that the local authority, when it considers this Mr Gray: This is what happens when someone represents matter, will turn down both applications—from Waitrose North Wiltshire for 15 years. In that speech, I went to and Sainsbury’s. some lengths to address some of the issues that we are talking about, namely that my constituency had a number Malmesbury has a vibrant and superb high street with of small market towns surrounded by beautiful rural a great community, which is not dissimilar from that in countryside, and how we could prevent that countryside neighbouring Royal Wootton Bassett. If we allow the from being built on. That shows both that nothing building of two new supermarkets on the outskirts of changes and, I hope, that I have done a reasonable job the town or of housing, which has also been threatened of living up to my promise and preventing developers around the outskirts of Malmesbury, we will land up from building all over my beautiful constituency. with urban sprawl of the worst possible kind and with a reduction in the vibrancy of the high street, which My constituency provides a case study of these issues; would become similar to those in one or two other indeed Mary Portas or others might want to use it as a towns in our area. I appeal to the planners who are case study or it could be part of one of her pilot studies. sitting in Trowbridge this very afternoon considering We have a variety of market towns, some of which have these matters to realise that if we allow developers to more flourishing high streets than others. The most build on greenfield sites, that is precisely what they will famous of those high streets, internationally, at the do because they want to build on greenfield sites. Only moment is that of Royal Wootton Bassett, where we by preventing them from doing so will we force them to have a superb community spirit. Why do we have that build in our town centres, to redevelop brownfield sites spirit? Because Royal Wootton Bassett has a flourishing, and to redevelop and add vibrancy to our town centres. vibrant high street and no out-of-town shopping. There is a very good Sainsbury’s, which is 100 yards away from the town hall at which we all stood in silent remembrance 5.14 pm of our passing fallen soldiers until very recently. Derek Twigg (Halton) (Lab): I congratulate the hon. Equally, in the town of Calne, we have a first-class Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) and the Backbench supermarket right in the town centre. In Malmesbury so Business Committee on their work in securing this far we have no out-of-town shopping, but in the interesting debate. neighbouring town of Chippenham, which is just outside Given the time available, I shall deal with just two or my constituency, there is a large number of out-of-town three issues, in particular what can be done generally. shopping centres and I am afraid that Chippenham VAT is a big issue and Members have already talked high street is not as vibrant and great a place as it once about how we could improve business rates. We should was. I expect that my hon. Friend the Member for consider how we can do more to encourage the private Chippenham (Duncan Hames), who I think will be sector to invest in town centres and high streets, by speaking in a moment or two, will seek to explain why being proactive with councils and in the local community. that should be. We also need to look at some of the laws and regulations 645 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 646 Streets Streets [Derek Twigg] The council has not had the success it wanted, so a year or two ago I took the initiative and set up a in terms of what could be done better to streamline working group involving local residents and retailers, compulsory purchase and to promote fairer competition the chamber of commerce and the local authority. We between small and large retailers. Although supermarkets explored how we could work together to bring developers get a lot of criticism, they provide many jobs, as the to Runcorn town centre to try to regenerate it with likes of Morrisons, Asda and Tesco do in my constituency. more shops and retail. That means, as has already been Indeed, Tesco is about to open a new superstore and we said, that we need more people living in the town centre. also have a major distribution centre. In Widnes, those In Runcorn, we are particularly blessed with waterways, companies are all in the town centre and add to it, such as the Bridgewater, Mersey and Ship canals, so although there is an impact on some other shops. there is an attractive area to be developed in the town The situation is different in Runcorn. centre. There is great desire for that among my constituents, but great frustration that nothing has happened. The Sarah Newton (Truro and Falmouth) (Con): The hon. town centre is typical in that it has been harmed by Gentleman talks about getting more private investment other developments that have taken place over the past into town centres, with big and small retailers working 10 to 30 years. Supermarkets have not been built in the together. Does he agree that business improvement districts, town centre, but away from it. The town has many such as the one we have in Truro and Falmouth, are an attractions, and that is part of the issue. We have to excellent mechanism for doing that? build on a town centre’s strengths. We heard that town centres should not all be the same, and should not all look the same, and the way forward is niche shops and a Derek Twigg: I completely agree that it is important different type of design, building on an area’s strengths. to get small and larger retailers working with the local In Runcorn’s case, the waterways can make it an attractive community and the local authority. I should also like place to live, shop and eat. reinforcement of the powers of councils to stop too many takeaway or betting shops setting up in town Those are the sort of things that we must explore for centres, which is a problem in many areas. our town centres in future. Involving the local community is crucial, and if we can develop residency and housing, I want to compare two towns in my constituency: that will bring people to the town centre, so that it does Runcorn and Widnes. With a chemical industry heritage, not become a ghost town at certain times of the day or Widnes has done particularly well. The town centre has night. I believe strongly that the Mary Portas report been turned around, and there are a number of large introduces many good ideas. Some powers already exist supermarkets; in fact, Asda moved from an out-of-town for councils to use, but we should look at how we can site to the town centre. There has been good development further improve powers to level the playing field and of land in the area to promote such initiatives, which make it easier to develop those areas and bring in extra involve leisure as well as retail. We have a cinema and a investment. bowling alley and an ice rink is coming. Widnes has done well to attract retailers and other investors to the town centre. 5.20 pm A key factor in attracting people has been Halton Stephen Mosley (City of Chester) (Con): I would like borough council’s deliberate free car parking policy. It to speak about a modern, British high street success has also ensured that car parks were built. As other story, rare as that is. Despite the obvious challenges Members have said, it is nonsense to try to rule cars out facing the retail industry, the proactive approach in of town centres; people want to use their cars and we Chester in the past few years has resulted in resounding should encourage them to do so, while of course improving success. Our high street is the epitome of what towns public transport links to our town centres and high and cities across the country should aim to achieve. streets. As many Members will be aware, Chester is a beautiful, In Widnes, there has been some impact on local historic city with a long history as a market town. Like retailers and a number of the older businesses that were every other part of the country, we face a threat to our there when I was growing up are there no longer, traditional economy as a result of increased competition, although Geddes bicycle shop still provides the same internet shopping and out-of-town retail parks. Over excellent service for the community. However, other the past three years, however, Chester’s high street has shops have been set up in the town centre to serve niche beaten the recession, and the statistics speak for themselves. markets and that is an important factor. As the Portas review highlights, excluding central London, On the other side of the river is Runcorn, whose town high street footfall has fallen nationally by about 10% in centre has not done so well, despite Halton borough the past three years. In Chester, however, we have had council’s excellent investment in development. One of three years of consecutive growth, and our high street the problems, and perhaps a lesson for the future, is that vacancy rate is similarly outperforming the rest of the when Runcorn new town was set up, some individuals UK. Compared with the rest of the country, Chester decided that we needed a new town centre a mile or two has proved to be remarkably resilient. away from the existing one. It is called Runcorn shopping In the foreword to her review, Mary Portas speaks of city, and although it is not a great success it had an the complex web of interests and stakeholders involved impact on the traditional town centre. That has been a in the health of a high street, noting that many of those major problem, so when new towns grow in future and parties simply fail to collaborate or compromise for the there are developments with significant numbers of greater good. Her solution is to put in place a town houses we should learn the lessons from what happened team to provide vision, strategy and strong operational in Runcorn. management for high streets. 647 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 648 Streets Streets Caroline Nokes (Romsey and Southampton North) In Chester, we have worked harder and smarter than (Con): Does my hon. Friend agree that success and most to keep our city and our high street vibrant. It is a resilience are the result of empowering local people to credit to the local authority and organisations such as make the decisions that will affect their local area, and Chester City Management that we have been able to in towns such as Romsey that is exactly what should beat the national trend. It just remains for me to extend happen when there is an out-of-town planning application an open invitation to all right hon. and hon. Members for a Tesco store? and people outside the Chamber: if they wish to see first hand a thriving and successful high street, they are Stephen Mosley: I cannot speak for Romsey, but in all very welcome to come to Chester, put their hands in Chester, that is exactly what we have done. That approach their pockets, spend their money and enjoy their visit. was identified by the Conservatives when we took over the council in 2007, and resulted in the creation of 5.26 pm Chester City Management, a body of local stakeholders, independent of the local authority, whose sole focus is Jonathan Reynolds (Stalybridge and Hyde) (Lab/Co-op): on bringing footfall to the city. Many of the areas Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, for calling me to speak highlighted in the Portas review were identified by in the debate today. I congratulate the hon. Member for Chester City Management as the key to future success. Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on securing the debate. I warmly welcome his speech and the tone of it. I should like to focus on one of those areas to showcase the way in which a little ingenuity and flexibility My constituency covers the towns of Hyde, Stalybridge can make a significant difference to footfall. Town and Mossley, as well as some smaller localities, all with centre car parking, as we have heard, is vital to the their own high streets. The people in these towns care economy of any city or town centre. Car parking that is very much about the future of their town centres and too expensive, or a lack of car parking, has just one high streets, and they are concerned about the decline effect: to discourage people from visiting town centres, that they have seen. I welcome the chance that we have encouraging them to travel to out-of-town shopping today to discuss the Portas review. centres instead. In Chester, we had year after year of Over the past year I have been working closely with inflation-busting increases in car- parking charges. Car local businesses, particularly in Stalybridge where the parking was treated as a cash cow rather than as a tool decline has been the fastest, to try to find ways of to help local business. When I took over as the executive supporting our town centre. I welcome the support and member responsible for car parking on Chester city inspiration that that report has provided. The review council in 2007, I was all too aware of the detrimental points to many of the concerns that have been highlighted effect of limited, high-cost parking on our high street. by people I have spoken to in Stalybridge, such as fewer Along with the city centre manager, Mr Stephen Wundke, reasons to visit the high street and limited parking when I thought up and launched Chester’s free after three they do. It presents a number of measures that could scheme, offering free parking after 3pm every day in attract shoppers back to the high street in greater numbers. three of the city’s major car parks. The scheme was I want to say immediately that I support very many of specifically targeted at local residents to encourage them the ideas contained in it. to visit the town centre after school pick-up or work. Creating strong identities, providing greater strategic Unlike the hon. Member for Halton (Derek Twigg), the vision and ensuring that towns have a range of outlets local Labour party did not like it and claimed that the and opening hours that match the needs of their customers reduction in car parking income would mean higher are among the sensible measures that could be used to council tax and that residents would end up subsidising make a real difference. The acknowledgement that it is visitors to the city. not just about retail is crucial. In addition, the review contains specific proposals, such as reclassifying the use Andrew Percy (Brigg and Goole) (Con): To give my category of betting shops, and suggesting measures that hon. Friend a further example on the same point, this could rid our town centres of the blight of empty and very day my own council, which we took control of derelict buildings—things that I very much support. from the Labour party last May and which introduced However, it is important to recognise that a number of free car parking, has been criticised by the Labour elements in the report would require significant investment, group for daring to reduce its income from car parking. whether that is reduced business rates or free parking. It In our area free parking, as my hon. Friend described in is difficult in the present climate to see where those Chester, has increased footfall substantially. resources might come from. Today I want to share with the House some of the Stephen Mosley: Absolutely. My local Labour party challenges faced by traders in my local towns. For those complained not just about that, but about the extra cars Members who have not yet been lucky enough to spend that were coming to the city. But despite Labour’s time in Stalybridge, I shall say a little about it. Stalybridge objections the free after three scheme was launched. It is a former mill town which has the Huddersfield narrow was supported by a huge publicity campaign in the canal running through it. It has benefited in the past newspapers and adverts on local radio, backed and from regeneration to open up that canal and the area funded by local businesses, and it was a huge success, around Armentieres square. Many of the former mills seeing a massive increase in footfall in the city after have been transformed into loft-style apartments by 3 o’clock. Three years later it is still free after 3 in companies such as Urban Splash. It has a population of Chester, and footfall is now up by 23%. Free after three over 20,000 with a range of incomes and housing, from has been copied in towns and cities across the country, social housing to properties currently on the market for and it has even made its way into the Portas review, on more than £1 million, so it should be able to support a page 27, as a model of best practice for others to follow. decent town centre. 649 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 650 Streets Streets [Jonathan Reynolds] free parking. The review’s solution is to suggest free parking schemes. Appealing as that might sound, we In the past the focus has been on the night-time must recognise the reality that many local authorities economy, leading some people to dub us “Staly Vegas”, are struggling for resources and, if they were simply but on its own the night-time economy is too limited a forced down that route, might choose to sell off their vision to sustain a thriving high street and town centre. car parks instead. Stalybridge has good transport links to Manchester Our town centres could have a very strong future. The and Leeds, and it could be an ideal choice for those report recognises that retailers change but there is still a seeking a leisurely cappuccino by the canal or an afternoon role for town centres if we get the offer right. I welcome browsing in the shops. the opportunity to discuss it today. I would like the Government to tell us how they will take forward and Andrew Bingham (High Peak) (Con): Does the hon. implement the report. I hope that it can be used as a Gentleman, whose constituency neighbours mine, agree springboard for communities such as mine to take a that one of the problems is getting people into and out lead in designing their town centres in future. of town centres? I am sure that he does, as we are having a joint meeting on Friday to discuss roads. I have spent many hours on Mottram road trying to get into and out 5.33 pm of Stalybridge. We have a joint problem with roads and access that is further cramping the town centres of Mr Mark Spencer (Sherwood) (Con): I am grateful Stalybridge and Glossop in my constituency? for being called to speak, and I compliment my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on securing Jonathan Reynolds: I thank the hon. Gentleman, and this important debate. The number of Members present I agree with his comments. In this case it is not just indicates how important this matter is, not only to us about traffic going through Mottram and Hollingworth but to our constituents. in my constituency, but about how we can open up the I shall start by outlining the situation in my constituency. asset of the Peak District national park in his constituency, Sherwood comprises a number of small former coalfield which would be very much to our benefit. towns with high streets and market areas. They are all Mr Deputy Speaker, you could spend a pleasant are under enormous pressure, but those individual towns afternoon in Stalybridge, given its location and amenities, face very different challenges and vary greatly in their but unfortunately alongside our picturesque canal there approach to them. In summary, there is no silver bullet is currently a burnt-out health club, which is an eyesore, that will solve individual problems, which have to be and a once thriving pub that is now boarded up. Frankly, sorted out at local level, and many different challenges it looks a bit like a bomb site. There is an empty former have to be addressed. Some of those challenges affect police station and a former NHS clinic nearby, and an all the towns and are similar wherever we go. Many increasing number of shops on the high street are Members have talked about the rateable value of properties empty and shuttered up. As a result, few people now once they become empty, and the challenge of how to think of a visit to our town centre as an afternoon out. put pressure on landlords to let them. Derelict buildings are a blot on our townscapes. Landlords have a role to play, however, because when Landlords are often reluctant to maintain their buildings they are approached by individual retailers about empty or sell them, particularly if their value has fallen, and properties, the rent that they want to charge and the the powers to force those owners, who might not even length of the lease that they want to offer on shops can live in this country, let alone the community, to take any sometimes be an enormous challenge to anybody wanting action can be cumbersome and difficult to enforce. I to start a small business. Somebody who has not run a have been working with my local authority to try to shop may want to dip their toe in the water, and then rectify the worst cases, particularly the burnt-out health take the big leap and start their own business, but if club, but I recognise that it is very difficult, and that we they approach a landlord who wants an extraordinarily are asking local authorities to incur significant liabilities high rent and a very long lease, they can find it daunting at a difficult time, which they are not always in a to commit themselves to that process and sign on the position to do. dotted line, knowing that they might expose not only I am pleased that the Portas review recognises the their business but their home and other assets. So detrimental impact that empty properties can have and landlords have a role to play. calls for an exploration of further disincentives to prevent Local authorities have a role to play as well. Members landlords from leaving units vacant. Removing empty have mentioned parking schemes, and it is worth reiterating property rate relief from landlords who fail to invest in the impact on someone’s decision-making process of their properties, or fining those who keep a significant the cost of parking a vehicle. They may want to buy just proportion of their portfolios empty, are both measures a newspaper or a pint of milk and think, “Where am I that should be looked at. Dealing with derelict buildings going to do that?” If they have to pay 50p to park their would make a real difference in Stalybridge, and I would car to buy milk, they will choose somewhere free of be keen for my town to pilot any scheme that would charge, rather than somewhere where they have to pay help. I suspect that I will not be the only Member almost the price of the bottle of milk to park before making that request today. Indeed, this is such an they can buy it. important part of the review that I believe that it could I compliment the councils local to me that have taken have gone even further. the trouble to abolish parking charges so that residents As has been mentioned, parking is a significant factor can make that choice, but we have to understand why in the health of our town centres, particularly when charges are in place. In my constituency there are places supermarkets and out-of-town developments can offer where, once charges have been completely removed, 651 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 652 Streets Streets other residents use the spaces to park and ride into the The delays and setbacks have continued into this century, city of Nottingham, blocking up car parks and preventing but I think that we have started to turn the corner over shoppers from using them. the past three years. About 10 years ago Tesco built a There is also an enormous emphasis on consumers. store about 500 yards from the town centre. Today that Many Members have mentioned supermarkets located is taking £1 million a week out of the town, which has a close to a high street, but they will not be successful population of about 28,000. People might comment on unless consumers make use of them by going in there the superstore’s hold on the town centre, but everyone and spending their money. Consumers are very good at still seems to use the shop. saying, “We want our high street to be successful,” but The town centre is still making progress. The old sometimes they talk the talk and do not walk the walk: dilapidated health centre has been demolished, Wilkinson they use supermarkets rather than supporting their high has opened a new store, and the row of shops in Dalton street. Consumers cannot have it both ways, however. way has been demolished. That will make room for a They have to make use of the high street and ensure new Aldi supermarket, which will be built and opened that they support the shops in their community. in the course of this year, adding welcome competition We also need to look at the physical size of the high for Tesco. The leisure centre is to become the site of a street. In certain towns it may be possible to convert community hub with a new library, newly configured some properties from retail to residential use and thus health provision and a community space. The structural shrink the high street, to make a more concentrated monstrosity known as “the ramp”, which links the area of shops, where we can address their quality, fill centre’s two floors and the car park is to be dismantled, the empty ones with shops from the periphery and and a row of shops near the leisure centre is to be allow for the residential use of the peripheral properties. demolished, creating a thoroughfare. That will open up That would have the knock-on effect of taking the to the outside world a town centre that currently seems pressure off the green belt around our towns, and we enclosed and uninviting to potential customers. could include residential areas on our high streets. For the residents of Newton Aycliffe, the history of I am grateful for having had this opportunity to their town centre has been laced with a good dose of speak, and I encourage my constituents to go out and frustration. In the past few years I have experienced that make use of their high street. The strapline for this frustration myself. To bring a halt to the delays and debate should be “Use it or lose it”. ensure that progress could be made, my predecessor arranged for the planners, developers and other stakeholders 5.38 pm to sit down around the same table to thrash out their problems at the beginning of 2007. That was the first Phil Wilson (Sedgefield) (Lab): I congratulate the time that those people had sat down together in the hon. Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on securing this same room to work out the problems. debate. The future of the town centre and the high street is a subject that probably affects every constituency There have still been frustrations. For example, before in the country. I shall take this opportunity to describe my planning could be agreed for the Aldi store, a stopping-up experience of town centre development, because ever order had to be in place on a footpath. That process since I became a Member at the 2007 Sedgefield by-election, could not run concurrently with other planning issues, the future of Newton Aycliffe town centre has been an but had to happen sequentially, which caused unnecessary ongoing issue. In fact, my first Adjournment debate was delay, given that the path has not been missed and the about the town centre and the problems that it was facing. process was holding up economic development and job creation. The planning regime does not need wholesale Newton Aycliffe was one of the first new reform, but some common sense must be applied when towns established under the New Towns Act 1946, and implementing the existing planning regime. work on it started on June 28 1948. William Beveridge was the first chair of the Newton Aycliffe development Even with the best will of the developers, planners corporation, the first row of shops in the town was built and stakeholders, the bureaucratic nightmare generated in 1952 on Neville parade, and construction of the town by the utility companies was a problem. The gas and centre itself began in 1957. electricity companies would arrange to sort out problems In those early years the town centre was seen as a on the building site of the new supermarket and then bustling environment with thriving shops, and everybody knock back the date. They found pipes that they did not of a particular age in Newton Aycliffe has fond memories know were there. I have spent many phone calls to the of it, but then, in the 1960s, things began to stall. The utility companies trying to get them to stick to the planners could not make up their minds about the plans. Some Members might argue that such incompetence future direction of the town and its predicted population, is the preserve of the public sector, but I can guarantee and as a result hesitation stepped in. There were plans that it is not. for a new town centre, which were eventually rejected. I believe that we are now turning the corner in In 1963 Lord Hailsham’s report on the future of the Newton Aycliffe. I say to my constituents in the town north-east predicted an increase in the town’s population, that although they might walk through the centre and but because of hesitation and a poor decision-making think that things are not happening, they can rest process, it took 12 years from the Hailsham report and assured that they are. We look forward to having a the consent of a Secretary of State before a few shops prosperous town centre in Newton Aycliffe. were built. In 1974 a leisure centre was built. By the 1980s the town’s biographer, Garry Philipson, said in his book 5.43 pm “Aycliffe and Peterlee New Towns” that there was “indecision and consequent lengthy delay regarding the new Dr Phillip Lee (Bracknell) (Con): I congratulate my towns’ target population and, subsequently, the form of town hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) and centre redevelopment.” the Backbench Business Committee on securing this 653 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 654 Streets Streets [Dr Phillip Lee] centre development. I would certainly support that. There is also an absence of a museum celebrating Berkshire timely debate. It gives me an opportunity to speak about life. There is a long history of royal links and so on in ongoing town developments in Bracknell, which I celebrate Berkshire, and if a Berkshire museum were to be set up, and support. I will talk about those developments, I believe it should be centred in the county’s geographical Bracknell itself and make some personal suggestions of heart, which is Bracknell. what might enhance the town and make it more sustainable. Bracknell is going places. It has always been an Bracknell is geographically at the heart of Berkshire. economic hub, and I have every reason to believe that it More than 100,000 people live in the Bracknell Forest will strengthen its position, particularly with such borough. It is surrounded by some relatively affluent outstanding town development plans. The local borough areas. Consequently, a town centre development is a council is to be congratulated on its leadership, as of viable proposition. The Work Foundation last year course is Bracknell regeneration partnership, which is named Bracknell, jointly, the location likely to recover co-owned by Schroders and Legal and General, which best during the economic recovery. It has a growth own the great majority of the land. We need to ensure sector in technology, with 11 of the 15 biggest software that the plans are sustainable, so we need to consider companies in the world based in or near Bracknell. public transport, perhaps including links with Crossrail. However, the town centre itself needs development. It The town’s sustainability and its contribution to the is fair to say, and a widely shared view, that the centre long-term health and happiness of all my constituents of Bracknell does not look its best. It has long needed are of paramount importance to me. a development plan, and one has long been in the pipeline. 5.48 pm I am very pleased to say that although the majority of town development plans were being shelved because of Meg Hillier (Hackney South and Shoreditch) (Lab/ the economic downturn at the time I was selected as a Co-op): The main high street in my constituency was candidate in 2009, one of the four that were not was rocked by the riots on 8 August, but the effects of the for the development of Bracknell. It is ongoing, and riots have not been the main problem for the high street. one has only to come to Bracknell to see the first stage It was already struggling, and businesses now tell me of it: the Waitrose store that was opened recently. It is that turnover is down by between 25% and 45%, and 36,000 square feet—a massive store—and we are extremely footfall down accordingly. pleased with it. We have a long association with Waitrose, The impact of Westfield in Stratford has been dramatic. as its distribution hub for the entire country is in It has even affected the high street chains in Mare street, Bracknell. Indeed, it is the largest private employer in as they have bigger stores in Westfield to which people my constituency. There is widespread belief that the go for the wider choice of products that they can offer. first store there will lead to others. I gather that a couple Often, people use local shops for convenience during may be in the pipeline, to be announced soon, which the week but tend to go to the bigger shopping centre at would lead to further stores. weekends when they have time to choose their retail Of particular interest to the people of Bracknell is centre. Winchester house, widely referred to as the old 3M building, The council and its partners in the town centre forum although that great company has now relocated to have been proactive in running events and activities to another part of Bracknell. It is a big building in the address that decline, such as ice rinks and personal middle of Bracknell and not particularly attractive, and appearances by celebrities and sports stars, but such I gather that a planning application will be put forward things cannot be done on a weekly basis and do not for its demolition and its replacement with new residential help on their own. There are long-term plans, including units and leisure and retail facilities. There is also planning for an outlet store offer to build on the success of the permission for a £2 million transformation of the Princess Burberry outlet store, which is a well visited international square shopping centre frontage. shopping space in Hackney—for those hon. Members In the next couple of months there will be a presentation who are keen to get a cheap mac, it is in Chatham place. by the Bracknell regeneration partnership announcing Mare street also has the only Marks & Spencer in east the next stages of the town development. Originally it London, so it is a shopping centre that has many things was going to be a £1 billion development to happen in to offer, including independent stores such as Mermaid one go, but economic reality means that it has been Fabrics, Argun Printers and Stationers, and others. broken down into a series of developments. I have every Some of the improvements that Mare street needs confidence that it will be completed by the end of this can be led or supported by the private sector, but local decade. leadership, which takes many forms, is needed. Additionally, I have my own suggestions. First, if there is one thing the council is looking into pedestrianisation and support that we have learned in the past 10 or 15 years, I hope it for businesses to improve their retail offer very much is that consumption is not everything. I would very along the lines of what Mary Portas outlined in her much like to see some culture in the Bracknell town report. With the Hackney Gazette, I have launched an development. I believe that feeding the soul is just as award scheme for local shops to encourage them to up important as feeding the stomach, and I should like to their game. Local residents will vote for their favourite see a theatre or cinema there. One has only to go a shops in a number of categories. couple of miles to South Hill Park to see a wonderful Planning powers, particularly in respect of bookmakers, arts centre. I am not suggesting for a second that it has are a big issue. Hackney has more bookmakers than wonderful grounds, but it is remarkable that a centre any other London borough, and we need a change to that is struggling for funds cannot be tied into the town the law. 655 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 656 Streets Streets Dame Joan Ruddock: My hon. Friend will know that I was heartened when I spoke to the manager of the I have a private Member’s Bill that establishes a separate Well street store. He made it clear to Tesco headquarters use class for betting shops. It is due in the House on that he did not want a fresh meat counter in his 2012 Friday. Does she agree that if the Minister chose to let revamp because there is a good and well-used local that Bill through and provide it with time, we could butcher outside his door. Of course, the desire to support solve the problem of the proliferation of betting shops local businesses is not entirely selfless—Tesco and other on our high streets? big retailers will benefit from an environment that attracts shoppers—but it is important that businesses work Meg Hillier: I completely agree with my right hon. together, which they often do not do enough. Friend. I hope the Minister is listening to the debate and to the support on both sides of the House for that I have not had enough time to mention Chatsworth private Member’s Bill, which will make a difference. road, but there has been great local innovation there too; or the Shoreditch Boxpark, which has become a I have focused on Mare street, but in the time remaining shopping centre because of an innovative approach by I want to touch on some of the other high streets in the council—containers have small shops in them on Hackney. Three main markets sum up Hackney: the short-term leases to allow retailers to experiment. Ridley road market, which is a traditional fruit and veg and general market, is in the constituency of my hon. The Portas review is important, and I wish to highlight Friend the Member for Hackney North and Stoke a few key points. Regeneration led by businesses works Newington (Ms Abbott); the Hoxton street market, best. Too many of one type of shop is not good. In where you can buy three pairs of knickers for £1, should Hackney, we have too many bookies and money shops. you so wish, Mr Deputy Speaker; and Broadway market, We have quite a lot of £1 shops too, and my hon. Friend which I also recommend, where a loaf of bread costs the Member for Hackney North and Stoke Newington about £2.50, but is very nice. As hon. Members may has a 98p shop in her constituency—ever the discount gather, each market represents a different aspect of my in the recession. We need more local control, but that constituency. needs to be well thought through to avoid perverse outcomes, and we need to harness technology rather Broadway market, which is on a small street off than see it is an enemy. We should encourage local London Fields, is an example of what can be achieved websites and local linking of the internet with local with local determination and drive. Traders and residents shopping. took matters into their own hands and established a Saturday street market in 2004. It has been a great success for local businesses and created an attraction for 5.54 pm visitors. Andy Veitch of the traders and residents association Mark Menzies (Fylde) (Con): I congratulate my hon. told me recently that they like to think of the market as Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on securing more friends, less frenzy. That pitch sums up some of today’s debate and the hon. Member for Hackney South today’s debate. We want Hackney shopping centres to and Shoreditch (Meg Hillier) on her interesting be friendly and welcoming places to shop, which is a contribution. different offer to the out-of-town malls, particularly Westfield. Before I entered the House, I spent 15 years working Broadway market began a customer survey at the end in the retail sector for three of the biggest names on the of last year because traders and residents there are UK high street. I welcome the Portas review, for it aware that they need to keep up the best of what they contains many valuable points. It has taken us away are offering, particularly in this recession. They are also from the traditional debate, in which it was said that the aware that they need to work together. They are fearful demise of the UK high street is down to out-of-town that a new Sainsbury’s Local will open nearby, but they supercentres and supermarkets. The report identifies are proud of what they have achieved, maintaining a salient points, and it is a credit to the House that we mix of the low-cost, useful shop, and niche shopping have focused on them today. with a thriving café culture. One local delicatessen In the time allowed, I do not want to go over ground employs 27 local people, which is quite different from that other right hon. and hon. Members have gone some of the metro stores that open. over—I want to move on to some fresh territory—but I Hoxton street market is in the most southerly part of wish to highlight the importance of landlords, particularly the constituency. It has not been thriving, but with a for small independent shops. Far too often, people who vibrant businessman newly working with the council, want to have a go and set up a shop face long-term we hope that that will change. It is early days, but I am leases of five or 10 years—added to the cost of rent, hopeful. I put on record my respect for Councillor shop-fitting and staff, such leases become a deterrent. I Philip Glanville of Hoxton ward, who has done an appeal to the Minister and landlords: let us encourage awful lot to get that moving. flexibility and short-term lets. Tesco has been mentioned a number of times, and I In recent years, we have seen the trend of pop-up cannot speak about retail in Hackney without mentioning shops, where people are encouraged to take up a three it for two reasons, the first of which is that it was in or six-month lease agreement. Far too often, such shops Hackney’s Well street that the young Jack Cohen started sell fireworks or Christmas trees. I encourage landlords out in 1919 with a market stall, selling a few days later to be far more imaginative and to give people who want the first branded tea—Tesco tea. Secondly, Tesco now to have a go the opportunity to succeed or fail. has stores across Hackney, including a large one in Morning lane and one in Well street. Not all residents Meg Hillier: The hon. Gentleman might be interested are happy about the number of Tescos, but that makes to hear that a scheme for young people was set up in a it an important player, even in a borough that prides derelict shop in Hoxton street. In order to do that, the itself on its independent shops. property needed a shop front. It is now the Monster 657 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 658 Streets Streets [Meg Hillier] I want to mention briefly the importance of carrying out trials. Several Members have offered their high Supplies shop, where people can buy jars of snot and streets as hosts to trials today. I must advise the Minister eyeballs. It attracts a certain type of visitor—it is very that, when he picks towns in which to carry out trials, popular at Halloween—but is that a good example of he should remember that no two high streets are the what he is talking about? same. A seaside town is very different from the suburb of a city centre, which in turn is very different from a Mark Menzies: That is a very good example. I never rural market town. It is therefore important to pick a thought that Fylde or Lytham St Annes would have wide cross-section of perhaps 20 or 30 town centres for anything to learn from Hackney, but perhaps in this the trials. The amount of money needed to be invested case it does, and I suggest we do so. in such trials would be negligible, because, if they were done properly, the private sector could become involved. When shops are left empty, they are far too often left I urge the Minister to look at one of the recommendations in an appalling state. As the hon. Member for Vale of in the Portas review, which relates to getting the major Clwyd (Chris Ruane), who represents Rhyl, pointed chains and supermarkets involved. out, they are left with posters on windows or boarded up. That does not make them good neighbours, so I In 2007, I won one of the few awards that I have won encourage local authorities to use all the powers at their in my life. It was the IGD/Unilever social innovation disposal—we perhaps need additional powers—to force award for work that we had done in a town called landlords to leave empty properties in a state that makes Huntly in the north-east of Scotland. We were opening them good neighbours and not an eyesore for the a supermarket there, and the independent butcher and community. baker in the high street were under threat, but if we can get the major retailers involved in the right way and at the right level, they can be part of the solution, rather David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP): Does the hon. than part of the problem. That can also help to mitigate Gentleman agree that as well as encouraging landlords, some of the costs. we need banks and finance houses to help small businesses? Like other Members, I would like to offer up a town People who want to start small retail businesses cannot in my constituency to take part in a trial. It is the town provide the security that banks require. We need to of Kirkham. In it, there is a lady who runs a bookshop. alleviate the difficulties with banks to encourage people She also sells ice cream and runs a tearoom in the shop. into entrepreneurship. As the leader of the retailers in the town, she would be willing to lead a pilot scheme. If we want to send a Mark Menzies: Our friends the banks of course have signal that Britain is open for business, I cannot think a role to play, but I wanted to focus on landlords, of a better way of doing it than getting our high streets because, as I am sure the hon. Gentleman agrees, bank open for business. support for small businesses has been well covered in previous debates. 6.2 pm One sensitive item—I wish to be as non-controversial Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney North and Stoke Newington) as possible—is the role of charity shops. Charity shops (Lab): In common with Members on both sides of the take up a disproportionate number of shop units in House, I welcome the Mary Portas review. I want to many high streets. I would not wish to decry the role talk specifically about one of its recommendations, that charity shops have to play—the income raised by which pertains to betting shops and the planning regulations them is important, particularly for small, independent, that apply to them. I want to talk about the scourge of local charities—but perhaps now is the time to review betting shops, partly because I have campaigned on the some of the considerable benefits that are given to issue for some time and partly because they are a them. particular issue in Hackney and other inner-city areas. Landlords often prefer to sign a lease with Oxfam Unless people live in an area such as Hackney, which than to take the risk with an independent retailer. The has seven or eight betting shops on one high street, they security of Oxfam versus the uncertainty of a start-up cannot understand the scourge that the proliferation of independent can distort the local market. Also, charity those places represents. shops do not have the bigger costs that many retailers We have seen a surge in the number of betting shops face. The biggest cost for any retailer is the one that over the past decade, particularly in inner London. I walks through the door on two legs—namely, the staff. think that there are now 90 in Hackney, which is three Charity shops often trade on the generous support that times the national average. That is why I am glad to they receive from volunteers. Given that backdrop, I do have this opportunity to address the House on the not think that it would be wrong to put the support that subject. There are nine betting shops on Mare street we give to charity shops on to the table for a timely alone. On that street, next to the historic St John’s review, to see whether we need to move past that. church, we have a beautiful 19th century town hall, on It is also worth pointing out that charity shops do not which millions have been spent on renovation. It had always sell stock that has been donated by members of been leased to the Midland bank since the 1930s, but in the public. We often see items for sale such as books the 1990s the council sold the freehold to the bank—now that look brand spanking new. They might have dropped HSBC—which promptly sold it on to Coral the bookmaker. out of a major retailer’s chart and, rather than being That is the pitch that we have reached in the inner cities: sent for pulping, they might be sold on at nominal cost that heritage building is now a bookmaker’s. or donated to the charity for resale. Oxfam has more Let me say something about bookmakers for the shops selling books than Waterstones, and that imbalance benefit of Members who do not know much about needs to be addressed. them or who do not go into their premises. In many 659 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 660 Streets Streets cases, they are the equivalent of casinos, with highly time. We need to create vibrant areas that are exciting to addictive fixed-odds betting terminals. Often, there are visit and in which social gatherings can be held. It is many of these in one shop. Members might say, “Well, therefore important to deal with this issue. Mary Portas’s it is people’s choice if they want to place a bet. Why is analysis is a good one. Shopping has changed, as have she being so prudish?” I have no moral objection to our habits. Where we go to do our shopping has also betting shops; my objection is to their proliferation. As changed. There is much to think about in the report, I have said, there are between six and eight on our high and there is much in it that I support, although there are streets, and children might have to pass four or five of other bits with which I have a few issues. them on the way from home to school in Hackney. I think that we are all in danger of simply repeating I also object to the predatory nature of the betting our maiden speeches today, because we are all, quite shops in the inner city. As I have said, there are eight or rightly, talking about our own constituencies. I shall do nine on Mare street, and nine on Green lanes in Harringay. the same. The name of my constituency does not fully Betting shops put nothing back into the community, describe the area I represent, because I represent not and they add no vibrancy. The pattern of new betting only the town of Pudsey but the many other towns and shops opening within the M25 shows that they have villages around it. I want to talk about two examples targeted the poorest areas with the highest unemployment today.In the Farsley and Calverley area of my constituency, and poverty. There are three times the number of betting there is a large out-of-town shopping centre, containing shops in Newham as there are in Richmond. What one of the biggest branches of Asda as well as one of could be more predatory than that? The people who can the biggest branches of Marks & Spencer. It has had an least afford to bet are being tempted by four or five impact on the towns of Pudsey and Farsley, because betting shops in a row. Furthermore, hundreds of public people travel out to the site. order offences are committed outside betting shops Local enterprises are trying to get people back, however. every week, contributing to low-level social disorder. Pudsey Business Forum, for example, has an excellent I have campaigned on this issue for many years. I Shop Local campaign newspaper. It has also printed its have written to and met Ministers and council leaders, own bags and held lots of events in the town. Recently, and I have tabled early-day motions. The problem is one we were delighted to welcome back Pudsey bear at a of planning. Betting shops fall within use class code A2, Children in Need event, which was superb. which covers financial services. That means that it is A local councillor in Farsley, Andrew Carter, should possible to turn banks and building societies into betting be congratulated on working closely with shopkeepers shops. It is even possible to switch the use of restaurants who are putting on street events to encourage people to and takeaways. The Gambling Act 2005 does not give come along. The church is also getting involved in the local authorities any real scope to limit the number of community. Many of the towns that I represent are old betting shops. Year after year, my own Ministers wrote mill towns, and far too often mills have been knocked back to me saying that they believed that local planning down and new houses built on them. In Farsley, authorities had strong planning powers available to encouragingly, two mills are renovating their buildings them to control the development of betting shops. That to attract businesses. One has all different types of was not true; it was clearly the line that officials took, businesses, including high-tech businesses, but the other but it was not true. is considering attracting retailers so that it can become I very much welcome Mary Portas’s recommendation an exciting place to visit. That is really good. No. 13, which covers the planning regime for betting Another part of the constituency, in Guiseley, Horsforth shops. It is headed: “Put betting shops into a separate and Yeadon, has been helped by the fact that the main ‘Use class’ of their own”, and I support her when she supermarket, Morrisons, has built on the high street, says: which has encouraged people to go through the town “I also believe that the influx of betting shops, often in more centre on their way to do their weekly shopping. There deprived areas, is blighting our high streets.” are many lessons to be learned there, because we have After many years of campaigning by local residents, changed our habits. and of local authorities finding themselves caught between angry residents and a Government who claim that Mr David Hamilton (Midlothian) (Lab): Does the authorities already have the necessary powers, I suggest hon. Gentleman agree that many supermarkets act as that now is the time, following the trigger of the Portas hubs within towns? For years, my area has had a Tesco report, for Ministers to give local authorities the power, in town, and people do their shopping in town and in this one respect, to give the high streets back to the finish in Tesco. People now do weekly shopping, not local communities and to end the scourge of predatory daily shopping. betting shops in some of the poorest communities in our country. Stuart Andrew: I agree absolutely with the hon. Gentleman. We can see the difference. The town centres 6.7 pm are still struggling—these are difficult times—but the Stuart Andrew (Pudsey) (Con): It is a pleasure to fact that there is a major supermarket on the high street speak in the debate, and I congratulate my hon. Friend encourages people to do their weekly shopping there the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on securing it. I and then have a look at the other shops. do not think that I have ever taken part in a debate in In many constituencies, parking is the big problem. which snot and knickers have been mentioned, so I look Far too often, in the towns that I represent, from early forward to reading Hansard tomorrow. in the morning through to fairly late at night, commuters I welcome the Government’s review—it was long take up the parking spaces that would otherwise be overdue. Let us face it, the problems of town centres are available to shoppers. In fairness, councils are trying to not a new thing: they have been occurring for some deal with the problem by introducing shorter-stay parking. 661 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 662 Streets Streets Julian Sturdy (York Outer) (Con): My hon. Friend is that they are hard to beat on price and range and that making some powerful points. Is there not a big issue they offer free parking and many other things that with the loss of parking in certain areas because councils people have mentioned. Furthermore, those who think are looking to retail their assets and use parking assets that supermarkets are the closest thing to Dante’s third to fund council projects? We are losing parking spaces, circle of hell can now order all their shopping online which is having a big impact on town centres. and get it delivered. That is all very well but small shops cannot compete Stuart Andrew: I concur. It is important that where on price and range of goods, or provide free parking. there are limited parking opportunities, we do everything Those of us concerned about the demise of our town possible to ensure that the parking is right for the area. I centres need to put our money where our mouths are, am delighted that my areas are now introducing time use our shops and not do all our shopping in one shop. limits. I have one problem with a supermarket in Guiseley, If we do all our shopping in the large supermarkets, they however, that has caused huge problems by not working will quickly become the only places where we can shop. with the council. I hope that I can use this debate to It is important to consider alternatives. People have encourage it to do so. come up with lots of good suggestions today, but in my Finally, I want to talk about empty shops. My hon. constituency the small business bonus scheme, introduced Friend the Member for Fylde (Mark Menzies) had a go by the Scottish Government, has provided a lifeline in at charity shops. As someone who used to work for a recent years to smaller, independent shops. Shopkeepers charity, I found them an invaluable source of income. In in my constituency have told me in no uncertain terms some cases, they can bring life and vibrancy to a town that their business would not have survived the past centre—it is important to say that—although it might three years had their rates bill not disappeared. Furthermore, not always be desirable. In Armley, people have used the small business bonus is arguably a huge incentive for their shops as centres or beacons of art, as a result of new businesses and entrants to the marketplace because which they have not remained empty and unattractive. it reduces start-up costs and mitigates some of the costs That has encouraged people to go along and have a associated with a new retail business. better shopping experience. The £60 million town centre regeneration fund introduced It is good that we are having this debate, because it in Scotland in 2009, with cross-party support, has also shows that we are in touch. MPs get criticised all the played a part. We have seen projects across every local time but we are in touch with what is going on and we authority area devised by local stakeholders. They have care about our town centres. We were once described as enabled communities across the country to improve the a nation of shopkeepers, and long may that continue. appearance of their facilities, make them more accessible and create more than 1,000 jobs. Local authorities have a particular responsibility to push forward regeneration, 6.14 pm to take action on parking charges, which others have Dr Eilidh Whiteford (Banff and Buchan) (SNP): I mentioned, and to ensure that planning decisions do commend the hon. Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) not undermine town centre regeneration. for securing this timely debate. It is clear that there is It is important that local authorities enforce the concern about these issues across the House. The problem planning conditions that they place on big supermarkets has come to a head recently because of the wider outside town. The hon. Member for Fylde (Mark Menzies) economic climate, but it is important to remember that mentioned Huntly. That was a great scheme in theory—it this is not a new problem—it predates the recession by a is not in my constituency— but in practice there has number of years. There is evidence in my constituency been much controversy because planning conditions of town centre decline stretching back at least 20 years. placed on Tesco have not been enforced by the local There is no single cause; instead, a malign constellation authority. of circumstances combined to erode the viability of independent and family-run shops. Mr David Hamilton: May I point out what happens The trend towards larger supermarkets and out-of-town when local authorities try to challenge big companies, retail parks is undoubtedly the key underlining issue—others such as Tesco? We are talking about small local authorities have alluded to it—but it is not the only one. As others taking on a multinational company, the legal department have mentioned, there is the growth in online retail, of which is often bigger than the local authority so it changes in demography and working patterns in local can take the local authority to court and win. That is economies, people commuting to work, less time to part of the problem. shop and changing tastes. I can also think of a range of long-standing family businesses where proprietors have Dr Whiteford: The hon. Gentleman makes a valid reached retirement age and found no one else in the point about the challenges and pressures on local authority family willing to take it on. In the current climate, it is legal departments. As citizens and shoppers, we have a difficult for newcomers to get into the market or take on chance to address that. that kind of commitment, even if they can get the finance, which is a major challenge. Mark Menzies: Will the hon. Lady give way? Turning that around is a challenge not just for national or local government; it also involves traders and, perhaps Dr Whiteford: I would love to but I am conscious of most importantly, our role as shoppers and citizens. If the time and of the fact that lots of other Members we want thriving town centres, Governments and local want to speak. authorities need to work together to play their part. We Some towns in my constituency are doing well and should not, however, dodge the dominance of the large managing to swim against the tide, largely because the supermarkets and its consequences. There is no doubt supermarkets are in the town centre. However, it only 663 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 664 Streets Streets takes one or two attractions in a town, whether civic or It is also fair to say that there are many myths about shopping attractions, to make it an attractive place to Kettering town centre. Local people believe that Kettering shop. That has a knock-on effect for everybody. Although borough council sets the rents on all the local shops, many local trade associations feel that they are swimming when it is really up to the local landlords. There is, of against the tide, many are doing the right thing and course, a big contrast between Kettering, where there trying to become more attractive to shoppers: many are are many local landlords of shop premises, and selling online from their shops, trying to compete with neighbouring Corby, where there is one landowner in other online retailers, and trying to develop niche markets. the town centre. It is a lot easier to get things moving in They are also working with other traders to raise the Corby with its one owner than in Kettering with its profile of a town and make it an attractive destination. many. A £5 million Government investment has gone We must recognise that although shopping patterns into the new marketplace in Kettering, with new have changed, retail might not be the only option for developments in Market street and the Horsemarket. our town centres. Banff in my constituency has an With all this public sector investment, the prospects for exceptionally high concentration of listed buildings. the town centre are good. Shopkeepers face eye-watering repair bills in maintaining Now for the bad news. Just down the road, outside such buildings. They often cannot perform the renovations Rushden, there is a proposal for a major out-of-town they would like to do, and their signage can be limited. development. According to the local Evening Telegraph, It is a bigger issue for the wider community when this site, which is 224 acres, will be the location for buildings fall into disrepair or disuse, so we need to 20 leading UK retail chains, including a large Marks & look at how to turn businesses, residences and offices Spencer, a cinema, a leisure centre, a garden centre, a back into housing in some cases. hotel and a new lake marina. One of the major investors I have been encouraged by all the great ideas that in Kettering town centre has written to me to say: have been suggested in today’s debate. I shall certainly “From the plans we have seen and negotiations that we understand take some of them back with me, but I do not think they are having with traditional ‘High Street’ retailers, we are there is one magic solution or a one-stop shop on this convinced that should a scheme of this nature go ahead it would issue. seriously curtail our ability to invest in Kettering town centre and attract new vibrant retailers to the town…we are concerned that a development of this nature would have a seriously detrimental 6.20 pm impact on town centres throughout North Northamptonshire”. Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): As the In my view, the Rushden Lakes development would 21st speaker and one of the motion’s proposers, I be a disaster for Kettering. It is completely against congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton policy 12 of the core spatial strategy for north (Mr Jones) on the quality of his speech and on all his Northamptonshire, to which all the local councils signed excellent work on the all-party group for town centres. I up. I would like to take the opportunity provided by this declare my interest as a member of Kettering borough debate to urge the Government to call in this application council. once it is registered with East Northamptonshire district I know that I have fewer than five minutes to cover council and to turn it down. If the development goes the four high streets in the Kettering constituency: ahead, it will have a seriously detrimental impact on Burton Latimer, Rothwell, Desborough and Kettering Kettering town centre—as I said, the No. 2 retail centre itself. The three A6 towns of Burton Latimer, Rothwell in the county of Northamptonshire. and Desborough are all small town centres, all different in their ways. Burton Latimer has a supermarket, a mini-supermarket, a variety of small shops and a successful 6.25 pm farmers market once a month. Rothwell has a variety of Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): I am pleased to small shops as well as a mini-supermarket and a growing be called to speak, and I want to cover supporting town reputation for niche and specialist shops as well as centres and the important issue of parking. I congratulate attractive places to eat. Desborough is a former Co-op the hon. Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on sponsoring town where the Co-op supermarket has been around for today’s debate. many years, but the Co-up itself has restrictive covenants on a large number of small shops in the high street, Too many valley town centres are in decline in south which I would contend has been to the detriment of the Wales. With the closure of Woolworth’s a while ago and town centre. Two supermarket chains are now bidding Peacocks today, important cornerstones of the high to build supermarkets in and near to Desborough— street are fading away. Let us hope that Peacocks is Sainsbury’s on an edge-of-town site and Tesco on a quickly rescued. town-centre site—and it is fair to say that the town is On parking, as Mary Portas says, there are good split on which of those should go ahead. Kettering environmental reasons why we should not use our cars, borough council has the unenviable task of making the but if town centres do not accommodate the car at a decision on that—next week, I believe. reasonable price, shoppers will not be tempted to them. That brings me to the town of Kettering itself. It is Furthermore, I have in recent weeks gained an insight the No. 2 retail town in the county of Northamptonshire into how a bad parking machine at a key town centre after Northampton. It is fair to say that Kettering town spot—at Ebbw Vale in Blaenau Gwent—can help to centre excites a lot of local comment, favourable and undermine shopping. Following a new private operator otherwise. In fact, Kettering town centre has weathered taking over the running of a car park there, I witnessed the recession extremely well. In August 2009, 88% of a large number of penalty notices being issued to blue the town centre’s units were full, which has increased to badge holders, taxi drivers and others, which has swelled 90% where the national average is 86%, so Kettering is my postbag and prompted much anger. Good value and bucking the trend. easy-to-use parking matter. 665 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 666 Streets Streets Bob Stewart: In my Beckenham constituency, it is not All that has led me to conclude that independent just parking that is the problem. It is the fact that trying regulation and appeal services are required to ensure to get into the car parks is made more difficult by road that fairness for drivers is given the priority it deserves. I works that go up, go down, come again, go again and hope that I have made clear in my focused contribution come again. It is sometimes just appalling. There should that parking is an important issue, and that getting it be much more planning of how road works are instituted right will help to achieve our overarching objective: the and then stopped and controlled. Does the hon. Gentleman creation of busy, dynamic and regenerated town centres. agree? 6.31 pm Nick Smith: I do. Local authorities and utility companies need to liaise much better. Angie Bray (Ealing Central and Acton) (Con): I, too, congratulate my colleague and hon. Friend the Member If parking becomes a problem, there is a danger that for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on securing this important shoppers will stay away. What does Portas say about car debate. parking charges? She warns councils not to see parking as a soft touch for revenue raising in cash-strapped Two town centres define my constituency. Ealing and times. The bottom line is that if we want to rejuvenate Acton are part of the same borough, linked by the our town centres, we have to be sensitive to the needs of Uxbridge road and sharing parts of the same community. car park users. I believe easy-to-use and easy-to-understand They are very different in themselves, but a walk along parking systems are important, too. People should do either high street demonstrates that both are experiencing the right thing, and pay and display. My constituents a noticeable decline. Both have been chilled by the effect are both intelligent and compliant. However, the problems of Westfield in Shepherd’s Bush. But we are lucky, because some of them have faced are illustrated by one clear help is on the way: Crossrail trains will stop at both example. Ealing Broadway and Acton main line stations, which should kick-start a renewal. The potential is there, Following the arrival of a new parking operator, provided that we are ready to take advantage of it. Excel, 29 disabled blue badge holders were issued with multiple penalty notices. It became clear to me that they A regeneration programme continues apace in Acton, were not to blame. Indeed, when they saw a new sign including work to completely revamp the town hall, a saying “normal conditions apply” and saw no signage huge but empty building which has cast a long shadow in disabled parking bays, they thought that they could over the high street for far too long. Work is also being continue to park for free. Well, they assumed wrong, done to refurbish the nearby South Acton estate. and they received penalty notices of £60 a time. After Encouragingly, just off the high street, Churchfield much advocacy, some are starting to have them taken back. road is responding admirably. It has a parade of shops, cafés and restaurants that create a buzz and the incentive My experience over these last few weeks suggests that to shop locally for a new generation of residents. signage is important. If the signage is got right, people Sadly, the same cannot be said of Acton high street. understand the rules and comply. When I identified the We do have a Morrisons right in the middle, and I agree confusion and sought simplicity, I was not surprised to with my hon. Friend the Member for Pudsey (Stuart see that my request for a sign saying, “Everybody has to Andrew) that it provides an invaluable service, sitting at pay at this car park—24 hours a day, seven days a week” the heart of Acton and even providing car parking, but did not find favour. That makes me and many others smaller shopkeepers along the high street complain of a think that some operators are using ambiguity rather toxic combination of rising rents, increased business than clarity to clobber motorists and boost their profits. rates and dwindling footfall. Clearly none of that is If the signage is difficult to understand, the fine print is good for their business, although I believe that the local complex and the font is small, people will be confused—then government funding proposals will help. penalty notices get issued and drivers stay away, so it is the high street that suffers. Ealing was once described as the queen of the suburbs, although the crown sits a little awkwardly these days. Let me share some of the complaints I received. One The town centre around Ealing Broadway is nothing local resident—I have plenty of similar anecdotes from like it once was: it feels tired. Yet there is much to build others—said: on. The centre retains its own distinctive character, “The ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) camera which is appealing. It has a strong, mixed community, is big brother at its worst, with the £60 fine…ridiculous for the including young people who often choose to go on ‘crime’ (this is how they make you feel)…These fines will put living there even when they have left the nearby parental many people off going into town, as they will be too scared that they might get another if they make a mistake entering their home because it is a good place to be. It has great registration number…I am not disputing the fact that you have to transport links, and also generous green spaces. Haven pay to park, just the way this company is bullying people who Green, Ealing Green and the common are just a few have innocently been caught out”. minutes away. Most interesting of all, it has a large Since the onset of the rash of penalty notices and vacant site up for sale right next to Ealing Broadway local controversy, I have engaged in protracted station. If properly developed in tandem with Crossrail, correspondence in an attempt to secure fair play for that could be the elusive silver bullet to get Ealing town local disabled drivers. As a result, I have learned that centre back on track. However, it is a big “if”. when penalty notices are issued—partly, in my view, as The Arcadia site has been the source of much friction a result of poor signage—Excel profits considerably. and disappointment in the community. The last owners That cannot be right. Last year a £100,000 bonus was had their plans turned down by the inspectorate, and paid to the company’s only director, Simon Renshaw-Smith, then went bust. We are all desperately keen for the site and in 2010 he paid himself a salary of £398,947—nearly to be sold off as a single unit by the administrator, but £400,000. Nice work if you can get it. so far no developers have turned up with the right 667 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 668 Streets Streets money. We must hope that someone does soon, because that if parking outside their shops is not allowed, they otherwise it may be broken up, which would be a will lose business. In fact, that is the opposite of what tragedy. actually happens. There are some fascinating shops in What are the magic ingredients for a successful town that stretch of road, but I never see them unless I am centre? A strong community who are prepared to support walking past them. It impossible to see what is on offer their local shops and play an active part locally; good in their windows without having the opportunity to shops providing everything that the community requires, stroll past them. and perhaps a decent department store as a magnet; Many Members have pointed out that people need to decent pubs, cafés and restaurants to provide a buzz. be able to park reasonably close to shopping centres. Of Businesses are more likely to locate themselves in lively course we do not want to price people out of places, but town centres where there are also good transport links. we also do not want to prevent the kind of atmosphere In Ealing, the Arcadia site could provide all that, but it that generates trade and business and makes a place should not be just about shopping, important though pleasant to be in. I do not want to walk through a that is. Obviously housing is an inevitable component of pedestrian zone knowing that the next minute someone a new development, but can we please ensure that it is going to be up my backside with their car because does not all consist of box-sized flats for singletons? they want to stop and buy something. Some at least must be decent-sized family housing which will help to build the community for the future. It is interesting that so many Members on both sides of the House have recognised the importance of public Town centres should provide their communities with expenditure as a way of making town centres better other activities as well, such as arts, fitness centres, places in which to be. However much people want the libraries, street markets, and open spaces for socialising. private sector to come up with all the money, it has not There should also be a decent cinema. Ealing, of all done so in the past. As was pointed out by the hon. places, does not even have a cinema, and has not had Member for Banff and Buchan (Dr Whiteford)—the one for years. We have been hoping that the old cinema other Scottish Member who has spoken today—when will be resurrected by its owners, Empire, but we are still Governments invest money in improving the quality of waiting. town centres, they make them places to which people The Mary Portas report makes some interesting want to come. I do not think that it is good enough to recommendations. It suggests that there should be more say that a town centre will be improved if there is no business improvement districts, plenty of convenient parking good public investment to prime, and make possible, —especially at weekends—and a more flexible relationship the kind of private investment that we want to see. between landlords and tenants. Perhaps most important is the suggestion that local people should become involved There is another point, which I do not think anyone in neighbourhood plans. Obviously there are more such else has mentioned today. In one part of my constituency, recommendations, but thank you, Mary Portas. which is a regeneration area, members of a community group are setting up a community development trust. I welcome—at last—Government proposals to repatriate They want to open a local café, to be run on commercial a large percentage of the business rates to local authorities. lines. They do not want it to be a cut-price place—they That is what we need if we are to redevelop the relationship want to make it a destination of choice—but they need between councillors and their local businesses and, capital, because without it the project will not work. hopefully, allow a new flexible relationship to flourish. Yes, it will be a social enterprise, and we hope that they There is so much more that could be said. Our town will make a profit that they will be able to invest in their centres, especially in constituencies such as Ealing Central community, but they are finding it difficult to get it off and Acton, are essential to the life of the community. the ground. Lots of warm words are uttered about how Governments can help, local authorities can enable and good such ideas are, but community trusts and social businesses will drive the regeneration, but local communities enterprise also need money behind them in order to get must be central to the vision. going. The public sector has an important role to play in supporting the private sector in that regard. 6.36 pm My next point may not be particularly consensual. Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): I did not The primary reason why so many shops are currently really intend to speak in the debate, but I have found it closing down is that there is simply not enough consumer interesting to hear many of the views that have been demand. No matter how good an idea someone might expressed. I believe that we have been given a genuine have for a charming shop with high-quality goods, it opportunity to explore a number of different issues. will not work if people cannot buy them. Portobello is a seaside area of my constituency. Many interesting shops There is clearly a considerable amount of consensus open there, but then close very quickly. Demand is key. about what needs to be done, but when I listened to some of the comments about cars and parking, it occurred to me that we ought to be careful what we wish for. I Lyn Brown (West Ham) (Lab): My local traders tell was slightly alarmed when a Member suggested that me that their biggest problem is getting our banks to there should be no objection to people parking their lend to them. Does my hon. Friend hear that, too? cars in pedestrian zones in order to nip in and fetch their milk, bread and newspapers, because I think that that would be a hugely retrograde step. People do not Sheila Gilmore: Lending is clearly one part of the buy things from shops when they are inside a car; on the problem, especially in relation to starting and then whole, they buy things from shops when they walk past expanding a business, but there must also be a market them and are interested in them. My constituency contains for the goods; there must be people who can come along the historic Royal Mile, where shopkeepers have complained and buy things. 669 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 670 Streets Streets [Sheila Gilmore] particularly wide customer catchment area, and, sadly, a few rogue shops do not help the shopping experience The current economic climate is very difficult. No either. For at least the last three years the post office on matter how many interesting ideas there are for improving Gosport high street has been in a state of permanent the physical environment of shopping areas, if people refurbishment. With pipes and wires everywhere, it is do not have the income—and for the first time the more akin to a building site than a fully functional retail financial position of people in work is deteriorating—we environment. That can only have a negative impact on will continue to see a decline. As I have said, economic the fortunes of the high street and undermine the growth is key. overall perception of Gosport town centre as attractive and economically healthy. Seema Malhotra (Feltham and Heston) (Lab/Co-op): The importance of regenerating the retail sector in Does my hon. Friend believe that the Government cuts Gosport cannot be overstated, as it accounts for almost will help stimulate consumer demand and support local 15% of total employment and is crucial to the resurgence shops? of our local economy. The slow demise of the high street has occurred in stages over a number of years, Sheila Gilmore: May I welcome my hon. Friend to the with independent retailers being replaced by large chain House? I do not think that cutting back in the way that stores, which then suffered a downturn in their own cuts are being made now has been a success. We can be fortunes as a result of the growth of out-of-town shopping accused of being over-reliant on public sector employment, malls and the rise of internet shopping. but we must not take that away too quickly. However, a British Council of Shopping Centres Recently, some constituents of mine came to see me report has revealed that some internet shoppers are because their small shop had experienced a sudden being driven back to the high street by frustration with downturn. That was a result of private sector, not delivery times and goods failing to live up to product public sector, employment factors. They had relied on descriptions. We often see successes when areas have people in the financial sector in Edinburgh coming into come full circle, with independent traders offering a their shop to buy a newspaper or some sweets, and they unique or more efficient service slowly resurrecting the were going under because that market had gone; the high street, and often doing what the internet does but people they had relied on were no longer there. No doing it better. matter how hard they worked and how many hours they It is also crucial to learn lessons from shopping stayed open, they could not make that business work. centres that are doing well. Stubbington in my constituency As I have said, economic growth is the key factor. bucks the national trend, with unit occupancy rates of almost 100%. I put that success down to free parking, easy access to the shops and a large number of independent 6.43 pm retailers offering goods and services that cannot be found locally anywhere else. Furthermore, business owners Caroline Dinenage (Gosport) (Con): I welcome the have engendered a real sense of community; I always opportunity to take part in this important debate. As love attending the annual carol concert organised by the has been said, our town centres provide more than a local business community and voluntary groups. Such place to do business; in many ways they are the focal events help foster a sense of togetherness. However, the point of our local communities. council has recently been consulting on introducing The community spirit and character of my constituency parking charges for the area. I hope that the 6,000-signature of Gosport is perhaps best represented by our bustling petition and strong campaigning by the local Conservative twice weekly market days in the town centre. The market councillor—as well as my speech today—will encourage offers an incredibly diverse range of goods, from the council to ensure that that crazy idea is dropped. sophisticated garden ornaments to truly enormous thermal I understand very well that business, like life, is not underwear. It offers the chance to pick up a bargain, but always plain sailing. Where businesses in my Gosport it is also a great social event; people almost always see constituency are continuing to thrive, that is a testament someone they know and have a chat. The retail shops to their hard work and the support of the entire community. are busy on market day as well, as it is almost the only Sadly however, for every success story there is always time when shoppers are attracted over on the ferry from another business that is struggling to make ends meet or Portsmouth. being forced under. I therefore welcome the work Mary The contrast with normal days on our high street is Portas has done in looking at the future of our high stark, as it is suffering from a severe bout of depression streets. Without further intervention, we run the risk of at present. The number of vacant shops in Gosport now undoing any progress we have already made. stands at 18. Fortunately, that is nowhere near the worst I commend the Government on putting high streets number of vacant premises in the country, but an at the heart of the new national planning policy framework, inactive high street can demoralise a town and ward off and I look forward to their response to the Portas potential investors. Gosport would make a perfect pilot review in the spring. If the recommendations are endorsed, town for the Mary Portas proposals. It has all the I hope that they will go a long way towards improving necessary components for a winning town centre: a the health of our high streets for many years to come. world-class marina, a spectacular waterfront location, a thriving market and, above all, a dogged perseverance, which is so vital in the current economic climate. 6.48 pm Those advantages are, however, counteracted by the Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): Until recently, disadvantage of being on a peninsular surrounded on Chippenham council was at the forefront of a community- three sides by water. As a result, we do not have a led plan to realise the potential of its town centre. 671 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 672 Streets Streets The efforts were led by Chippenham Vision on behalf The future of town centres lies not in rolling them of Wiltshire council and were hailed by the chief executive back to the way they were decades ago, or even in of Action for Market Towns as maintaining them just the way they are today, but in giving them the freedom to redefine their role according “beacons of localism in practice.” to local strengths and opportunities, and then in ensuring Sadly however, I have to report that that progress has that the public bodies in the local area co-operate with stalled following a council planning committee decision that ambition. to approve the massive expansion of an edge-of-town Sainsbury’s, which prompted the resignation of the Mr Gregory Campbell (East Londonderry) (DUP): hugely committed Chippenham Vision chair, John Clark. Does the hon. Gentleman agree that we also need The town has lost—albeit only temporarily, I hope—an something to shift the balance from edge-of-town and impressive advocate. out-of-town retail to town centres? That could be some Such supermarket developments can only be a drain form of small business relief, which does help to tilt that on town centres—in this case not only in Chippenham, balance. We have done some of that work in Northern but in nearby Corsham too. That is in direct and stark Ireland and I am sure that other parts of the United contrast to the Government’s stated intentions. Last Kingdom could benefit from tilting that balance, to month I sought and received the backing of the give small business people and small retailers in town decentralisation Minister, my right hon. Friend the Member centres a bigger advantage. At the moment, they suffer for Tunbridge Wells (Greg Clark), for the “town centres because out-of-town shopping centres have an unfair first” policy. He clearly stated that the Government’s advantage. commitment to it “with all the tests that it requires, is firm.”—[Official Report, Duncan Hames: We do need to tilt that balance. 5 December 2011; Vol. 537, c. 15.] That has been the thrust of my speech, and I think that the planning system has an opportunity to do that for The evidence from Chippenham suggests that the Minister’s us. words are not being heard. Melksham, in my constituency, is to benefit from a We are not alone in facing the prospect of substantial central community campus hosting a leisure centre, a out-of-town supermarket development. Property library and a youth centre. The council’s original intention consultants CBRE reported last month that over 40 million was to locate the campus out of town, but the decision square feet of new supermarkets are already planned was reversed as a result of vigorous campaigning by the for this year. It appears that “town centres first” simply local community, including local councillor Jon Hubbard, is not happening out in our constituencies. We must and Melksham Without parish council. Local people address this in the national planning policy framework. are not short of good ideas for the future of the There must also be a robust test in respect of qualifying communities that they make their home. One tool that for the presumption in favour of sustainable development; people and their councils can use to help their towns is local councils must not adopt a take-it-or-leave-it attitude the bottom-up process established by the Sustainable to planning policies, as Wiltshire recently did. Communities Act 2007, whereby residents, together with their councils, can put proposals to central Government That is what we face in Wiltshire’s draft core strategy, for action to promote or protect thriving local communities. which my neighbour, my hon. Friend the Member for I note that a quarter of the recommendations in Ms Portas’s North Wiltshire (Mr Gray), referred to in his speech. It review are ideas that have come forward as proposals is set to conform to the old unlamented south-west under that Act. Unfortunately, it would seem the process regional spatial strategy. Despite the fact that that never has been put on hold, and we are still awaiting the came into legal force, council planners choose to claim regulations that will get things going. They are required that it is necessary for their local plan to conform to it by the Sustainable Communities Act 2007 (Amendment) now. Their report to the council’s cabinet this week Act 2010, and I hope very much that we shall see states: them soon, so that people and councils will be able to “Until the full provisions of the Localism Act come into effect get involved. through secondary legislation, the Pre-submission Draft Wiltshire As we have heard in this debate, pernicious parking Core Strategy needs to be in general conformity with the Regional charge hikes, along with people ignoring the “town Spatial Strategy for the South West unless new up-to-date evidence indicates otherwise.” centre first”policy, the insistence of councils on conforming to the old regional spatial strategies, and edge-of-town, I had thought that this Government had done something edge-of-bypass development will guarantee that it is about that, because as far back as July 2010, the easier to move things out to the perimeter than to decentralisation Minister was good enough to confirm regenerate town centre locations. Over the longer term, to me on the Floor of the House that he had issued reinvigorating town centres requires innovative ideas guidance to inspectors saying that they should consider about what their future role should be. The future of unadopted regional spatial strategies as immaterial. our market towns should not lie in being dormitories The Under-Secretary of State for Communities and with hollowed-out cores which send commuters out Local Government, my hon. Friend the Member for into large cities but have no life of their own. That is not Bromley and Chislehurst (Robert Neill) is welcome to sustainable socially, economically or environmentally. intervene on me now to give Wiltshire councillors that As we have heard, there is no shortage of ideas as to guidance, ahead of their imminent decision, and confirm how we can approach this challenge, and Parliament that their officers’ instructions on this matter are simply must ensure that the planning system listens to and wrong. If he does not do that now, I hope that he will reflects the ideas of the communities who will have to manage at least to cover the point in his speech. live with its decisions. 673 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 674 Streets Streets 6.54 pm so; and we may have to accept that there will be fewer shops in the city centre, although there may be more John Stevenson (Carlisle) (Con): This debate is extremely cafés, restaurants and so on. Access is also crucial, and timely, as many of the issues that have been raised are of this relates not only to cars, which many hon. Members great relevance to my constituency, where a potential have mentioned, but to buses and other public transport. large development on the outskirts of Carlisle is in the The overall goal must be to offer an improved experience, pipeline. We have a well-supported city centre, with a be it of tourism, shopping or something else in our city large number of shops, both national and local. The centres. pedestrian city centre is very attractive and well used, and it often holds continental markets during the year. Many of the solutions lie with local government, but There is reasonable access to the centre for buses and I wish to discuss one solution that central Government cars, although that could be improved. In general, the can be involved in, which is providing for standardised city centre is considered to be vibrant and well-supported, commercial leases for terms of up to five years. Basic and to have much going for it. Vacancies in the city lease clauses that are accepted across the industry would centre are few at the moment, although I accept that be enormously beneficial for traders. Indeed, I would there are a larger number of vacancies in respect of go further and suggest that rent reviews should be secondary shopping and that we may need to address “market rent only”, not “upwards only” and not retail associated issues. I, like many people in Carlisle, want to prices index-related. That would give confidence to the see the city grow and develop while retaining a vibrant traders in city centres and could improve our city centres. and popular city centre. We already take that approach towards agricultural The area does have a major development opportunity leases, so I see no reason why we cannot do the same for on the horizon. The local football club wants to relocate commercial leases. I believe that city centres do have a its stadium from the centre to the edge of the city, but to future and we just need to make it happen. achieve that it needs to have an enabling development to make the move financially viable, and that undoubtedly means some sort of retail park. This is a major economic 6.59 pm opportunity for the city: we would have new football James Wharton (Stockton South) (Con): Hon. Members facilities and supporting facilities, which would be very from both sides of the House have spoken eloquently welcome; a large number of jobs would undoubtedly be about the strength of some of the local high streets in created; and there would be a further and improved their constituencies across the country and about what retail offer. However, there are potential consequences those high streets and town centres contribute to the for the city centre that are in line with the thrust of this economies in the communities they represent. debate. We have to ensure that our city centre continues to survive and, indeed, thrive while not preventing other In my constituency, there is a small town by the name development elsewhere. Getting the balance right is of Yarm, which lies on the south bank of the River crucial for Carlisle and, as has been made clear in this Tees. It is in the old north riding of Yorkshire and, by debate, for other parts of the country. accident of local government reorganisations, it has found itself in the borough of Stockton-on-Tees. The Before I put forward some ideas, I wish to make a few town has a vibrant high street, a range of independent simple points. First, we must accept that we cannot shops and a strong community.In 2007, the BBC Breakfast fight against the tide; internet shopping is here to stay and show voted it the best high street in Britain—an accolade it is likely to grow. Often we cannot prevent developments of which it is very rightly proud. To the great concern of on the outskirts of cities and, again, we must accept local residents, however, the borough council has decided that they will take place. We also have to recognise that to interfere in business that is rightly otherwise seen to no one size fits all; different parts of the country have be that of Yarm and its community. different problems requiring different solutions. The Portas report raises a number of issues and I support There has been a long-running debate about parking many of her suggestions. I am less sure about others, and traffic through Yarm. That is a problem faced by but we should embrace those that are worth while. the town and the solution, which is universally agreed We must fundamentally acknowledge that town centres on, must ultimately be one or more long-stay car parks, and high streets cannot stay the same; they must change, providing long-term parking provision for the town and innovate and develop new ideas. So what can be done? freeing up spaces on the high street for trade and Many things can be done, but it is local leadership that visitors. Despite that long-running discussion, however, will matter. I am talking about local leadership creating the borough council has decided to push ahead not with local solutions. Councils have to take an active and a long-stay parking solution but with the introduction leading role. The development of business improvement of parking charges—at this time of all times, when districts is a real opportunity for councils. In many national reports specifically recommend free parking as respects, councils should treat the city centre as a metro- a strong prerequisite driver for successful high streets. centre or a shopping centre, and they should be proactive The borough council in Stockton risks choking off the in managing their centre. Planning should be flexible growth and success of one of its most successful market and, crucially, councils should make sure that the city towns and local economic drivers because it is failing to centre is an attractive place to which people want to listen to what the community in that town says that it come. Councils, as well as businesses, must also be wants and needs. investors in the city centre. However, we have to accept that change will take Gavin Williamson (South Staffordshire) (Con): In my place: we may have to encourage more residential property constituency, all the parking is free in all the villages in and near the city centre; some parts of the country and community centres, such as Wombourne, Codsall should embrace tourism—Carlisle should certainly do and many others, and that creates vibrant, thriving 675 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 676 Streets Streets local areas. Does that not show the great contrast Last Thursday, there was a public meeting in Yarm to between a Tory-controlled council and Labour-controlled discuss the proposed changes. About 250 members of Stockton? the public came along on that cold night to attend the meeting, to make their concerns known and to discuss James Wharton: My hon. Friend is absolutely right the proposals. I attended, and so did Yarm’s town that a Labour council is driving forward parking charging councillors and borough councillors. Borough councillors proposals against the wishes of local people and the from neighbouring communities also came along on a community, to the detriment of the economy in the cross-party basis—well, on a coalition basis, I suppose, town of Yarm, which I am proud to represent. as the Liberal Democrats turned up, as did the Conservatives, but the Labour party did not send a representative—[Interruption.] And the same is the Martin Horwood (Cheltenham) (LD): In that case, case in the Chamber right now. More significantly, will the hon. Gentleman have a word in the ear of his despite a request from town and borough councillors fellow Conservatives on Gloucestershire county council, and from me personally to the chief executive, Stockton since they held a public consultation on imposing parking borough council refused to send a representative to that charges in the Montpellier shopping district of my public meeting. It refused to listen to the concerns of constituency and, despite the fact that nobody supported the people it is supposed to serve and represent. the idea, imposed them anyway? You will have gathered, Mr Deputy Speaker, that this is a matter of great concern to my constituents, particularly James Wharton: My hon. Friend is very lucky, because those in Yarm and the surrounding communities, to his council has held a consultation. We have had promises which much traffic could be displaced if parking charges of consultation from Stockton-on-Tees borough council, were introduced. It is a matter of concern not just but what have we had in reality? An independent survey because of the plans being proposed but because of the was commissioned, the results of which are clearly and way in which this is being done, because of the high-handed demonstrably flawed. For example, it overestimated the and arrogant manner in which Stockton borough council value of the economy of the town by a factor of three. is driving forward proposals without any consultation, The flawed survey was then presented to the town against the will of local people, and because of the way council, which sat and listened to the findings and made in which officers on the council, such as Richard McGuckin, its observations. It was told, “Thank you very much, who heads the highways department, are listening solely but the report has already been written and this counts to the cabinet members who control what they do and as consultation in our book.” Consultation for Stockton implementing those decisions against the will of local borough council, it seems, means deciding what to do people. People in Yarm, a successful and vibrant market and then telling people about it, not seeking their town in my constituency, are losing confidence in their opinions and input to develop a policy that has local borough council. They feel that they have not been support. listened to and that their views have not been properly Sadly, the proposals and the report went through taken into account and they are worried that the decisions Stockton borough council’s cabinet in December, just being taken now by others who are not representing before Christmas. What is happening now? Good hard- their views will have a long-term detrimental impact on working local councillors in Yarm and surrounding the communities in which they live. communities have signed the necessary forms to have We have an opportunity, when the proposals go back that decision scrutinised. Andrew Sherris, Mark Chatburn to scrutiny on Thursday and are then, we hope, referred and Ben Houchen, who are the borough councillors in back to Stockton’s cabinet for the decision to be Yarm, and Phil Dennis, a borough councillor for the reconsidered, to change the situation and to put things neighbouring town of Eaglescliffe, joined forces to call right. In the light of Mary Portas’s report and of in that decision so that Stockton borough council would parking’s importance in securing the long-term success have the chance to look at it again, to think again and to of our high streets and town centres, I want to take this make a decision that better reflects the needs of the opportunity to ask Stockton borough council to think community that the council is supposed to serve. again and to warn the cabinet members that if they do In addition, a row has been running in the local not, the people and traders of Yarm will not forgive paper; I am sure that everyone will be greatly surprised them. at the thought that the introduction of parking charges would excite a bit of a row in the local newspaper. 7.6 pm Specifically, one of the borough councillors, Mark Chatburn, raised his concern at the lack of consultation George Eustice (Camborne and Redruth) (Con): I, before the proposals were pushed forward and Mike too, congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton Smith, a cabinet member, came forward and attacked (Mr Jones), on securing this very important debate. In that idea, saying that there had been lots of consultation my constituency, all three towns—Camborne, Redruth and that the council had consulted over an extended and Hayle—have faced challenges on the high street period of time. All I can say to that cabinet member, as and, two years ago, before the last general election, I someone who has followed this case closely and has organised a local conference to discuss some of the talked to Yarm’s borough and town councillors, to issues. Conscious that such events are often attended traders and to residents, is that they do not feel that any primarily by councillors and local government officials, meaningful consultation has taken place at all. Had it I walked through all the town centres and went into done so, I can guarantee that Councillor Smith would every single retail shop to discuss their concerns. be getting the message loud and clear that the council’s Let me outline the three key areas that repeatedly proposals are not the right step for the future of that came up. The first was that the term “town centre town. regeneration” had very negative connotations for a large 677 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 678 Streets Streets [George Eustice] council tax. That is a very important policy, which we should consider extending to business rates on commercial number of small retailers. The reason for that was alluded properties. This is a grey area at the moment, but I to by my hon. Friend the Member for Montgomeryshire understand that as a general rule once banks have (Glyn Davies) earlier, and it is the disruption that crystallised their charge on a property and taken possession, regeneration can cause, of which local authorities often they are no longer liable to pay the business rates on it. do not take enough account, whether the regeneration If we made them pay those business rates, it would involves pedestrianisation or the introduction of one-way create an incentive for them to rent out such properties systems. In Redruth, for example, the local authority or, indeed, not to foreclose on businesses in the first was going to resurface the main car park in the town, place. No doubt the Minister will take some of these but to keep down costs it decided to do so progressively suggestions on board and we might consider some of in between other jobs. As a result, it took six months to this in Committee. sort out the main car park in the town, which had a hugely detrimental effect on footfall and trade. The 7.11 pm town has struggled to recover. First, we must apply the Chris White (Warwick and Leamington) (Con): I, precautionary principle of “do no harm” if an authority too, begin by thanking my hon. Friend the Member for is going to embark on regeneration. Nuneaton (Mr Jones) for securing a very popular, as The second major issue to come up was car parking. I well as important, debate. [HON.MEMBERS: “On this disagree with what the hon. Member for Edinburgh side.”] Indeed. East (Sheila Gilmore) said earlier: most small retailers All too often, attention is given to our big urban recognise that the single biggest reason why they cannot centres, with insufficient attention being paid to the compete with supermarkets is that supermarkets can hundreds of towns across the country where most of offer free car parking. I always remember the managing our population lives. I represent three fantastic towns— director of one of our large retailers saying that if a Warwick, Royal Leamington Spa and Whitnash. The survey is conducted of the public, they will say that they debate is very timely not least because I will be interviewed want a picture postcard high street with a fishmonger by BBC Coventry and Warwickshire tomorrow morning and a butcher, but when it comes to how they vote with about what will take the place of the police station, the their wallets, 97% do their grocery shopping at a fire station and the courts in Warwick now that they supermarket because they want to open the boot, load have been lost. The excellent report we have been discussing everything in and go home. We need to consider the will give us a basis for some answers. issue of parking and I want to see local authorities using their retained business rates to try to offer some Towns are smaller ecosystems than cities, and as a free car parking. consequence they are more sensitive and require greater care and special consideration. I believe that all Members The third issue was business rates. It is a crying shame can agree with the main aim of the Portas report—to to see small retailers with new business that have sometimes craft a “town centres first”policy approach to development. been set up for only six months—who take huge pride Town centres are key. They are at the heart of our in their shops and did not need mentoring by other communities and are the backbone of our local economies. retail experts or training as they knew what they were Independent retailers, of which we are fortunate to have doing—find that the rigidities of the business rate system many excellent examples, find it difficult to compete means they go backwards, losing money month after with large out-of-town developments, and this can have month, which is not sustainable. I think we need to look a massive impact on other parts of our local economies. at ways of making our business rate system more flexible so that we can give more breaks to new businesses that This is not just about retail. When town centre businesses are doing a good job and that, given the time, could and shops leave or close owing to a lack of footfall, it achieve so much more. can make towns look less attractive, which can reduce other income streams such as tourism. The cumulative Much has been said about the report by Mary Portas. effect can be that community amenities are significantly I want to pick up on an issue that was touched on by my affected, creating a general sense of malaise. So this is hon. Friend the hon. Member for Dartford (Gareth not merely about keeping a few shops on the high street: Johnson) regarding recommendation 20 about the problems it is about how we create vibrant, dynamic and sustainable caused by banks. I disagree with his comment that we town centres fit for the 21st century. should not pick on banks. I think we should, because We need to remember that town centres and high the issue is not about the banking estate and their high streets are not the same thing. Town centres are more street branches, but about properties that they have than just a selection of shops. They are centres for repossessed, often in a trigger-happy way. We need to community organisations, public services and important look at ways of making it harder for banks to repossess local amenities. They require equally as much care and businesses, perhaps by requiring them to get a possession thought and should not be ignored. Town centres are order from the courts before being granted possession like any natural habitat. When biodiversity falls, the of those businesses. That would give the courts the ecosystem becomes weaker and more prone to collapse. ability to take into account any proposals that banks or Likewise, when we focus too much on purely retail issues receivers have to bring those businesses or shops back in our town centres, we weaken rather than strengthen into use quickly. them. If we allow our town centres to continue to be too The final issue I want to address concerns the Local expensive for other sectors, we will limit their potential. Government Finance Bill, which will commence its People are not merely shoppers. They are sportspeople, Committee stage tomorrow. The Bill provides that in music listeners, theatre-goers and seekers of new experiences. the hierarchy of liabilities, a mortgagee who takes possession The Danish architect who is credited with transforming of a residential property will become liable for the Copenhagen has said: 679 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 680 Streets Streets “If you asked people twenty years ago why they went to central of the restoration of prosperity rather than getting too Copenhagen, they would have said it was to shop…But if you hung up on outdated planning issues. I hope that there asked them today, they would say, it was because they wanted to are two particular audiences to whom the Minister will go to town.” address his responses—national park planning authorities, It is also worth remembering that town centres depend particularly in coastal areas, and the Welsh Assembly on the loyalty of local people, and we need to ensure that Government, who occasionally glance in the right direction those people have as big a say as possible. I welcome the when it comes to these issues. However, more often than fact that the Portas review plans to campaign to get people not, particularly with a Labour Administration, the involved in their neighbourhood plans so that we create emphasis has been contrary to the interests of high town centres in which people feel they have a say. street regeneration rather than complementary to it.

7.15 pm 7.19 pm SimonHart(CarmarthenWestandSouthPembrokeshire) (Con): I know that you will not mind, Mr Deputy Speaker, Paul Uppal (Wolverhampton South West) (Con): I if we return to Wales for a few moments. I want to deal thank my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton with the twin issues of rates and planning, particularly as (Mr Jones) for securing this important debate. I have to they apply to coastal towns, which depend heavily on say in all sincerity that it is with great sadness that I rise tourism, and especially towns that fall under the national to deliver my speech facing a sea of green Benches, parks planning regime, which has a significant bearing which is particularly pertinent when we consider that on their ability to undertake economic activity. the city of Wolverhampton is among the highest for the Let me deal first with rates. Tenby has a population number of empty shops. If this is not a vital debate, I of about 5,000 in winter and about 50,000 in the summer, am not sure what is; but so be it. but the ability to negotiate the rates is extremely limited. The essential point has already been made. Town As a consequence, in the winter shops close, businesses centres are not just about retail; the high street is at the reduce their output, boards go up in windows and very heart of any community. Many Members have people are laid off. That is avoidable, and I make a plea referred to their constituencies. Following the riots, and to the Minister. Taken over a short period, the withdrawal in view of the fact that we have such a high number of of rate relief, albeit predicted and albeit that businesses empty shops in Wolverhampton, I conducted a survey know about, can reach ridiculous heights. For example, of small shops and businesses in the city centre to find in local towns such as Narberth in my constituency, out why people do not shop there. I was surprised by the figures have reached as high as about 250%, with the No.1 reason—chuggers: people who fundraise, perhaps consequence that businesses are winding down, shops aggressively. Again and again, shoppers said that the are closing and people are being put out of work. I aggressive tactics used by some street fundraisers leave suggest to the UK Government and, indeed, to the them feeling harassed and intimidated. I was disappointed Welsh Assembly that there must be a neater way of to learn that people were being discouraged from visiting deploying transitional rate relief and a better way of Wolverhampton city centre and I called for action to accounting for the fact that seasonal variations in seaside address the problem. towns can be absolutely huge. Why not have a system whereby rate relief can be more carefully applied in the In Manchester, there is an agreement between the city lower winter months and made up when cash flow centre management company, CityCo, and the Public might be better in the more buoyant summer months? Fundraising Regulatory Association, a self-regulating body that monitors face-to-face fundraising. They have The second issue I want to address is planning in found a balance between fundraising and leaving people national parks. I know that my friends in the Pembrokeshire in peace to shop. It is important that that fine line is Coast national park will be suspicious about what I am drawn. about to say. I should like to quote one example from the town of Tenby, where a very viable local estate agent Although I support the incorporation of local applied to take over high street premises that had previously communities in decisions about their areas, efforts need been an unviable pizza parlour. For some strange reason to be made to facilitate the process, so I welcome the to do with enhanced national park planning policy, the Government’s local initiatives because that is where the application was turned down. A boarded-up shop that solutions to many of the problems will lie. I should also employs nobody and engages in no economic activity like to offer the Minister some guidance on trust and remains in the centre of that important town, whereas clarity over tax-incremental financing, which is an issue the alternative would have been to have the lights on in for the developers of city centres. We have to go back to those premises for 364 days a year with six or seven basics. If we are to see regeneration, we cannot look at people working inside. There would have been a sense the old model whereby development was funded only of life and energy returning to an otherwise dormant by bank lending; we need to look at partnerships between part of the street, but the only excuse that the national local authorities and businesses. park planning authority could come up with was that The important word is trust. Be it a local authority or the application was outside “policy”. Surely, in such a business, they need to trust each other. If, as has circumstances the answer is to change the policy. happened in Wolverhampton in the past, a developer If we want towns such as Tenby to be regenerated, if wants to take a city forward and a local authority is we want economic activity and if we want people to be promising this, that or the other but they get to point X encouraged to go into town in the quieter winter months, without delivering anything, there is a breakdown in organisations such as national park planning authorities trust. If we are to have effective development and have to be flexible. Their policies must reflect today’s management in these difficult economic circumstances, economic climate and they must point in the direction it is vital that trust is at the core. 681 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 682 Streets Streets [Paul Uppal] It is worrying that Enfield council has refused to explain where the extra income generated will be spent. The Time is pressing and many colleagues have already cabinet member for finance, Councillor Andrew Stafford, spoken about parking. My hon. Friend the Member for claims that it will be used “to gain additional revenue” Stockton South (James Wharton) made a pertinent for the council’s coffers. I question that judgment, because point about local communities when he spoke about the guidance for the Traffic Management Act 2004 Yarm. In all my travels, not just in my constituency but stipulates that merely raising revenue should not be an up and down the country, I have noticed that there are objective of parking charges. I support the campaigns parts of our country where there are social issues and by residents and newspapers to try to overturn the challenges. Southall high street, Soho road in Birmingham, decision. The council must withdraw its plans, cancel Melton road in Leicester or even Dudley road in Sunday parking charges, repeal the increases and help, Wolverhampton are in areas where there is deprivation, not hinder, Enfield’s shops and businesses. but there are no empty shops on those high streets. I do The issue is not all about parking, but we have heard not know why, but I believe it is because they are centres consistently across the House that it is a problem that and hubs for their communities. We need to harness faces everyone. Our high streets will benefit in future that in retail development and construction. We come from a long-term strategic view of how to take on our back to the original point: town centres and high streets present-day challenges, but I fear that there is disconnect are at the very heart of our communities. between landlords, retailers and local authorities in achieving a strategic view. To face the challenge for the 7.24 pm future, a long-term, investment-led and holistic strategy Nick de Bois (Enfield North) (Con): I am grateful for will be needed that will drive people—with relief, I the opportunity to speak, and I commend my hon. Friend believe—away from their computer screens and internet the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) and the Backbench shopping. If they see their high street become a destination Business Committee on securing this important debate. of choice for social and cultural events, and not least for shopping, we can help to promote our town centres. In Much has already been said so I shall concentrate on Enfield under the Conservatives, between 2002 and two issues, time permitting. The first is my constituency. 2010, there was a commitment to expand the shopping Many Members know that the town of Enfield, which precinct, and they moved the library and the museum. is at the heart of my constituency, has a recent history, Now we can take things a stage further. Recently, even sadly, of being caught up in the riots. It has been volunteer dance groups have appeared in the streets of fraught with that difficulty and the current economic Enfield, making it a good place to do business and I climate that faces so many of us. invite all Members to come and see what a great job our The wonderful “I love Enfield” campaign, which was retailers are doing. started by Fast Signs, one of our local businesses, immediately after the riots tore through the high street, 7.29 pm is a prime example of how local businesses, close to their community, are entirely in touch with the individuals George Hollingbery (Meon Valley) (Con): My and locations for which they provide services. Subsequently, constituency town centres—I suspect like those of many our local Labour council started a “Love your high Members—have been subject to the development of street” campaign, which I was fully behind, to try to supermarkets without any real control or the involvement bring traffic to the high street. It is thus all the more of local people. In Bishop’s Waltham, when Sainsbury’s baffling that the council has persisted in introducing a recently gained permission to build a supermarket, steep hike in parking charges, including for Sunday there was enormous turmoil in the community, and a parking, that is causing economic distress to traders “them and us” situation was created: half the community and frustration to residents and is penalising churchgoers. was for the supermarket, half against. I thought that I It is not acceptable. As one of the local businesses said: should do some work on PPS4, the regulation that “If the council…are serious about regenerating town centres…then allows unplanned, out-of-town supermarkets and retail they need to consider one of the most simple ways of encouraging outlets to be constructed. people to stay and shop in their community.” By luck, circular 02/2009 requires any proposal for an At the heart of that is parking. unplanned out-of-town supermarket to be reviewed by Since its election, Enfield’s Labour council has sought the Secretary of State, so that he can see if he wants to to force through drastic changes to parking regulations call it in formally. Records were available for two years, throughout the borough. Its initial proposals to increase so I could see exactly how many unplanned supermarkets parking charges, in some cases by more than 100%, and had been granted permission and how many had been to increase the number of charging days to include called in by the Secretary of State. The answer was that Sundays and bank holidays, have created a difficult 146 unplanned out-of-town or edge-of-town retail stores climate for local businesses. The changes faced massive had been given permission, and one had been called in. opposition from residents, traders and our local The simple lesson, for me at least, is that supermarkets newspapers—The Enfield Advertiser, which has launched are extraordinarily well resourced, powerful and practised, a campaign, and the Enfield Independent. Despite that, and they get what they want. In short, the local plan is the cabinet member for environment, Councillor Chris not really an effective tool to restrain that undue competition Bond, still claims that “fairness” is “at the heart” of the for many of our high streets. decision. However, as the Emma Claire hair and beauty It is time to put people back in charge. Not all high spa salon says: streets are equal, and the quality of high streets varies “All we constantly hear from our clients is that they no longer hugely. However, some are truly more than the sum of wish to shop or use our facilities due to the excessive amount of their parts. They are the hub of the community; they parking charges that Enfield council has implemented.” are a forum for social interaction and a draw for tourists; 683 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 684 Streets Streets they are a marketplace for local products, and a safety for a long time about the way in which the town centre net for vulnerable people, particularly the elderly. People was going, and how town centres generally were going. notice when certain people are not there, and shopkeepers They were fed up, too, with politicians promising things are aware of those who need looking after. High streets and not delivering and so on. I spoke to the chap who can be heritage centres, and the value of those externalities chairs the Eastbourne independent traders group, and I is simply not contained in models such as PPS4—the said to him, “I give you my word, if I am elected, come method previously used to grant those permissions. what may, I will be down to see you the day after the If we consider the needs of social services and GPs, election.” To this day, I remember a look in eyes of, “Oh as well as the delivery costs to new markets of businesses yeah, I won’t see you for dust.” Sure enough, after the that are displaced, those are all costs that the models do election, with only two hours’ sleep, I was down there at not price and do not see. We need to do something midday to say hello and to promise him that I was going about that and let communities decide. Local plans and to roll up my sleeves and get involved. notional neighbourhood development plans do not allow One of the first things I did in Parliament was to join communities to turn around and say, “We do not want a the all-party parliamentary group. I am now vice-chair, supermarket here.” I believe that they should be able to and it is something to which I am strongly committed. I do so, but there must be a high hurdle. There must be set to work on Eastbourne town centre. Unlike my hon. overwhelming community buy-in for the proposal, and Friend, I did not have a great deal of expertise in that we must ensure that there is competitive pricing in that area. My background is in business development, not community so that the less well-off are not marginalised. town centres, and I discovered the complexity of trying We must demonstrate that the local jobs that would be to get something done in town centres. It is really hard: created are strategically important. If we put all those one has to deal with planning, business rates, and hurdles in place, is it not right that local people should byelaws. In Eastbourne, we have an astonishing number be able to say no? If they can convince their community of byelaws that make it very hard to set up a street that they do not want a supermarket and that they have market—the sort of thing that would make a real something special, should they not be able to turn difference. around and say, “Stay away—we’re happy as we are”? I think very much that they should be able to do so. Hopefully, the difference this time is the enthusiasm I propose to the Minister that that should be included and commitment that I have shown, along with my in the new national planning policy framework. When local council. It was not always the case, but it is now a the Select Committee on Communities and Local can-do council. I said that we had to get a good street Government looked at the issue and wrote a report on market in the town centre, which would act as a catalyst the NPPF, it agreed that it was a reasonable idea and it or engine to get things going. The council said that is included in the recommendations. I hope very much there were a lot of byelaws but—and this is different—it indeed that Ministers will consider that carefully and, said, “We will do something about it, Stephen.” Previous yes, with high hurdles, ensure that people who live in councils, whatever their political persuasion, would just valuable communities that they do not want to change say, “It’s too complicated. We’re not going to do it.” have the right to say no. It took a year and three quarters, but it has been through cabinet. In Eastbourne town centre, opposite 7.33 pm the shop where I spoke to that independent trader, there will be a street market in late spring or early summer. It Stephen Lloyd (Eastbourne) (LD): I thank my hon. is a start, but as we have heard today, so much of this is Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) for securing about the drive and commitment shown by the Portas this important debate. I work closely with him on the review, the coalition Government and the Prime Minister. all-party parliamentary group for town centres, and I As an Opposition Member said, this is an old issue that value his input tremendously. I thank the Backbench has been around 20 or 30 years but, finally, there is a Business Committee, too, for granting the debate. chance that something will be done. I hope that that is Town centres mean a lot to me, because they should the case because, to be honest, we all know about the be a reflection of a town’s character. That has emerged state of town centres for the past 20 or 30 years. They powerfully today in many speeches. A town centre have consistently become worse and, with some honourable should be a place where families go to relax and be exceptions, there has not been any real change or together, where people can pass the time of day and improvement. enjoy themselves, and where consumers can shop, eat, relax and be entertained. As many of my colleagues We are all responsible—politicians, planners and the have debated, it is about so much more than shopping: public—because everything has changed with the internet that is how town centres should work. In short, town and the complexities of shopping today. This important centres should be welcoming environments where we all debate—I really think that it is important—offers an want to go. That is what they should be, but are they? opportunity so that, in a few years’ time, we will look back The answer, with a couple of exceptions that have been at 17 January 2012 as the day on which parliamentarians, made clear, is no. the Government, the Minister and the public decided, I said that town centres mean a lot to me, but I should “That’s it. We’ve had enough of our town centres have said, given that many of my hon. Friends have simply deteriorating and going out of fashion. We’ve taken the opportunity to discuss their own town centres, got to stop it.” We have to begin that fight. There are that Eastbourne town centre is particularly relevant. A many reasons why it is important but, most important few days before the general election, I talked to some of all, town centres, when they work, are the heart of a independent traders in the town centre. As we have town. I think that they are worth fighting for, and it has heard from many other Members, they had been fed up been a pleasure to speak in this debate. 685 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 686 Streets Streets 7.38 pm played at 10 am each day. Desmond wants to expand to provide hot food, but at present he cannot do so, as his Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con): I am grateful to my use would be in the same use class as a kebab shop. That hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) for issue needs to be addressed. securing this debate and to the Backbench Business Committee for granting it. I pay tribute to Mary Portas Many town centres, including Lowestoft, are blighted for the hard work, passion and imagination that she put by unkempt and dilapidated buildings that discourage into her report. people from going there. Councils should be given more We have heard about the challenges that town centres compulsory purchase order powers to address such face from out-of-town food stores, retail parks and the problem properties, and they should be able to serve internet. Poor town planning has also played a role in empty shops management orders. the decline of town centres, whether in granting planning I agree with Mary Portas that markets should be permission for out-of-town stores in the wrong places encouraged. Markets were the procreators of town centres on inappropriate terms, by making town centres inaccessible and they have an important role to play in their future. and difficult to reach by car or public transport, or by People like browsing around a marketplace. Markets doing little to prevent the rise of “same street” syndrome bring people into a town, they provide an opportunity and clone towns throughout the country. to showcase products or skills, and they give entrepreneurs To halt that decline, town centres should be able to the opportunity to get their foot on the first rung of the compete on a level playing field. We have heard about ladder that can lead to running their own business. the importance of retaining the “town centre first” Across the country, there are too many rules and regulations, policy. Moreover, Mary Portas points out that the high too many hoops to jump through, before a market can street can be a hard place in which to trade. We need to be set up. Those need to be removed, and to be replaced make it easier, with fewer rules, regulations and restrictions, with a presumption of favour of the right to trade. and a more balanced tax and rating system. Out-of-town parks have a major advantage over town As for parking, in some towns, such as in Lowestoft centres in that they are in one ownership, subject to one in my constituency, the council, working with town management regime, with one common purpose. In the centre shops, has put in place more customer-friendly town centre there are many players and many stakeholders, car parking arrangements. However, the Government with different goals and objectives. We need to help still need to do more. them come together to work as one to promote town centres, as they are doing in my constituency in Lowestoft, Richard Graham (Gloucester) (Con): Does my hon. Beccles and Bungay. Business improvement districts, for Friend agree that what Gloucester city council has which preparatory work is currently taking place in done, which is to reduce parking charges to £1 an hour, Lowestoft, can help as well, as can Mary Portas’s proposals is exactly the sort of proactive work by local government for town teams. that we need to help revitalise interest in our city centres? In conclusion, Mary Portas’s report has highlighted a problem that is faced across the country, and this debate Peter Aldous: I welcome that intervention, and I agree. has helped move the discussion forward. I look forward Councils across the country are doing what they can, to the Minister’s summing up and I urge the Government but the Government can do more. They should look at to respond to the report as a priority, so that we can all how parking at out-of-town stores is assessed for rating get on with the important task of bringing life and purposes. As a chartered surveyor, I do not believe that prosperity back to the country’s high streets. the current valuation approach truly reflects the value of that car parking to out-of-town retailers and the rateable values should be raised, with the additional 7.43 pm funds generated being used to reduce car parking charges in town centres. David Morris (Morecambe and Lunesdale) (Con): I should declare an interest. I own commercial properties With rates, councils should be provided with more in Greater Manchester and I was a shopkeeper for discretion over the discounts that they can offer, ratepayers 20 years. I had clothes shops and hairdressing outlets should be able to spread their payments over 12 months around the Greater Manchester area. For years I have rather than 10 months, and the anomaly whereby business been watching the decline of town centres, and I agree rates are increased annually in line with the RPI, rather with more or less everything that I have heard from than the CPI, must be corrected as soon as possible. both sides of the House today about the state of our Another challenge that needs to be addressed is the high streets and town centres. fact that there is a lot of unused space in town centres, Our shopping habits have changed, and we must both at ground and upper levels. We need to make it recognise that. The internet has been a revolutionary easier for that accommodation to be put to alternative step forward and, as we can all agree, it has good points uses, such as much-needed dwellings, doctors’ surgeries, and bad points. There is more choice on the internet, gyms or other community uses. The use classes order, but the disadvantage is that people cannot hold, touch, which for so long has acted as a straitjacket, should be see or experience the object unless it is in a showroom. relaxed and local councils liaising with local communities Many town centre shop owners have said that they have should have more discretion about what activities should become showrooms for the internet market. I know that be allowed. many suppliers and manufacturers have taken measures In Kirkley in Lowestoft in my constituency, Desmond to stop certain sales taking place over the internet, but does not have a barrow in the marketplace; he has a the internet has had a large impact on town centres, as superb coffee shop, with unique decor and a “Hancock’s out-of-town shopping has on all our towns across the Half-Hour” collection to rival the BBC’s. An episode is country. 687 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 688 Streets Streets The good points are that those huge shopping centres and list them, but probably the three biggest are Codnor, provide security, diversity and more choice—but most Somercotes and Langley Mill. It will not surprise anyone of all, they offer free parking. They are accessible from who has heard the debate to hear that they all face the the motorways. More often than not they are on bypasses challenge, to varying degrees, of empty shops and an that have been created because every town centre in the over-supply of charity shops, take-aways and betting land has been pedestrianised. Correct me if I am wrong, shops. This seems to be true of the whole country. but most town centres in this country have been developed I was slightly concerned by the local council’s report through the centuries, most of them in Victorian times, on the retail industry in Amber Valley. I first read the as thoroughfares or crossroads where traders met and part about the most successful town in the constituency, markets, and later towns, developed. For the life of me I Alfreton, which shows that in some parts footfall is cannot understand why every major town centre in the below the national average. I thought, “That’s a bit of a UK has been pedestrianised. Cars have stopped going problem, but hopefully we can find a way to fix it.” I in. The whole infrastructure of a town centre was based then read the part about the weakest of the three towns, on traffic going through, in and out. To compound Heanor, which shows that footfall there is one third of things further, what did we get in some, if not most, that in Alfreton, which already has a problem. That councils? Parking wardens. Private parking wardens—a shows the scale of the problem we face in that part of way of raising money. Derbyshire. Because of the history of old mining Let me tell it like it is. Where I am from, I still have communities, there are many small town centres between commercial properties. If I nip into the local town or go one and five miles apart servicing 20,000 people, and to visit my children, I park, and I then have 30 minutes. the old diverse shopping mix, with people walking into By the time I have walked into the town centre, which town to use the shops, is history. That is no longer how has now shrunk, it is time for me to go back. When I get we shop. back, more often than not I have a parking ticket. That Before we look back to a golden age of town-centre discourages people from going into town centres. shopping, we should think about what we do when we Look at what has become of our town centres. As get back home on a Thursday evening at half-past 9 one hon. Member said, they have become the home of after leaving this place and find that there is no food in charity shops, fast-food outlets and betting shops. A the fridge. We go down to the 24-hour Asda and do our plethora of shops service retail industries. The large shopping there. I am then busy all day Friday. What do high street clothing shops—the Nexts and the Marks & I do at the weekend? I go to the supermarket. Those of Spencers—will not set up in a small town any more us who know that that is wrong try to find the time to because the units are too small. We now have to look at shop in local shops, for example by going to a local the planning system. Over the past few years many butcher rather than the supermarket. I have found that town planners, rightly or wrongly, have been planning one of the privileges of being an MP is that I get to on the outskirts of the town. A bypass road has been convince my girlfriend that we cannot go to the Meadowhall built round the pedestrianised town and the situation shopping centre, but we have to shop locally instead. has been self-perpetuating. According to the Portas review those huge shopping We must start thinking about the future of town centres offer a great and enjoyable experience, but I am centres. The circumference of the town centre will shrink, not sure that that is what I have found. and the outer shops will more than likely become housing. Understanding the problem is easy, but finding the The town planners should recognise that if we are to fix is not. I do not think that the fix is for my local attract larger businesses into the town centres again, we council to have to decide tomorrow night whether it must redevelop and create units that will house their wants to sell land on the edge of Ripley to another current requirements, instead of what happened when supermarket. I do not know who is bidding or how town centres were built up, in some cases hundreds of many bidders there are, but I do know that having a years ago and in other cases as recently as 50 years second supermarket will not help in a small town that is back. already struggling. The shopping centre might have a To sum up, we should re-open some of the pedestrianised pharmacy, an optician, a mobile phone shop, an electrician towns where applicable, and we should start looking —you name it, they have it these days—and the town seriously at how to attract businesses back into the centre already has vacant shops. It has three pharmacies, centre of towns. More than anything, we should try to an optician, a Currys and other electrical shops, all of work out a better system of parking. Free parking areas which will be under direct threat from a second supermarket, would be preferable, but in this day and age I know that never mind the fact that there are already two supermarkets that would be almost impossible. Thank you so much, in the town centre that are themselves struggling. Mr Deputy Speaker, for letting me speak in this We have to send out the message that if we are trying debate. to save our town centres, we cannot add extra out-of-town shopping that reduces the footfall that town centres 7.48 pm desperately need to attract. The council’s report states that we might need another supermarket in the Alfreton Nigel Mills (Amber Valley) (Con): It is a pleasure to area in 2026. I look forward to catching HS2 to that follow my hon. Friend the Member for Morecambe and supermarket in 16 years’ time, but in the meantime I am Lunesdale (David Morris). I add my congratulations to not convinced that we need it. my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) It would be remiss of me not to comment on parking, on securing this debate. which is a long-running local issue. Our parking charges I have the pleasure of representing a seat with three are actually quite low: 50p an hour is a typical rate. town centres, Alfreton, Heanor and Ripley, and there With the amount the petrol costs to get to the car park, are various other high streets. I could go on all night I wonder why those charges are such a concern, but 689 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 690 Streets Streets [Nigel Mills] The problem is not Tesco itself. It and other supermarkets play an important role and people do choose to shop in clearly they are, especially for the convenience store that them. The problem is supermarket dominance. There has reopened in Heanor market place—I pay a huge are a number of problems. First, there is a stranglehold tribute to Mr Patel for that. His problem is that there is on competition. A successful economy, both locally and a Tesco store down the road. If I want to buy a pint of nationally, is based on diversity and people’s ability to milk I can park there for free, but if I want to buy it at innovate, adapt and provide the services that people his shop I have to find the change, find the machine and want. What can be done about the supermarket pay the 50p, and if I accidentally stay longer I get the monopolies? The answer is not very much. It is perfectly privilege of a £25 fine. Finding a solution to that legitimate under existing rules for a supermarket to problem is key. have a reasonable market share across the country but a The most encouraging thing about Mary Portas’s complete monopoly in some towns and high streets. review is that she did not try to take us back to the The result is lack of choice for consumers, which is bad golden age of the 1950s or claim that this is just about for the community and the economy. Breaking these getting all the shops back. She recognised that we have monopolies up is not anti-free market; it is fundamentally to do something different, and find different uses to get pro-fair market and pro-community. people using town centres again, whether that is a social Secondly, local areas retain more money when it is use, a health use or something else. The challenge for all spent in independent and locally owned stores. Local of us, and for our councils, is to find something that will owners are more likely to serve their communities because work for each town centre, and find a way of making it they live there too. My right hon. Friend the Deputy happen. If that means shrinking the shopping area and Prime Minister spoke yesterday about the need for the moving shops to a viable area, rather than having them Government to support worker-owned enterprises. In too spread out, or if that means finding other uses and the same vein, local planning powers should enable allowing empty shops to become restaurants or café locally owned stores. When shops are opened by consent, bars to try to get that footfall and find a viable use, that with the support of local people and under the ownership is the way forward, and that is what we need to do. of local residents, the economic and community benefits are huge and we should support that. 7.54 pm Many of these trends are likely to get worse. We have Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): Liberal Democrats a housing problem in our country and need to build believe that community politics should be at the heart more housing, but as these new neighbourhoods are of what we do. Decisions that affect individuals should formed, we must ensure that developers, when they be made at the lowest practicable level and, when it lease or sell their outlets, take into account independent comes to our high streets and town centres, local retailers. I have been told that some developers will sell communities should be given as much power as possible. units only to companies that are prepared to buy 10 or That is why I welcome the Government’s commitment more outlets, which squeezes independents out of new to protecting our high streets. neighbourhoods entirely. For these reasons, I have been The independent Portas review, although not perfect, working closely with city councillors to see how we can is a significant step towards undoing the centralising better represent the interests of our constituents by powers that were introduced by the previous Government. supporting local stores. Local government must be able Key measures such as business rate reforms, town teams, to influence whether new stores are chains or independents the general power of competence and neighbourhood and whether they are small or large outlets, because that plans will enable local people, through their council, to is want people want it to do. make decisions about their own areas and that affect their own lives. There is much more that can and should One approach we tried was to see whether planning be done. As the Portas review identified, the more applications could take account of the diversity of powers local people have to control their own lives, the shops in a town centre. The push by Cambridge city more likely they are to create a thriving community, and council became known as the “Cambridge amendment” a thriving community is the bedrock of a successful to the Localism Bill in the House of Lords, and I spoke economy. in favour of it in this place. The Government, however, did not accept that case, but they did suggest using local In Cambridge, I am fortunate to have an extremely “use classes” to enable local people to control their high successful city council, headed by Councillor Sian Reid, streets, which seems a perfectly reasonable proposal. It who is fighting hard to protect our town centre, our would mean that local people could determine that local market and our local high streets. We have been supermarkets are in a different category from small doing this for years, so we are more than ready to shops and that when shops merge, that would change identify where Government reforms are working and the class. It would empower local councils, but we have where they will not deliver as expected. However, the not yet heard from the Government how those proposals story is not all good. This year, Tesco is due to open its would work and the details, despite letters from myself 13th store in Cambridge. Despite the best efforts of and the leader of the council. I ask the Minister to Sian Reid as council leader, Catherine Smart as deputy respond as soon as possible. It is not just about opposing leader and myself as the local MP, we have simply not supermarkets for the sake of it. We need to ensure that been able to find any legal means by which we can we have variety and diversity. prevent supermarkets from opening ever more new stores on our high streets, even when there is significant We also need to ensure that there is transport. I have opposition from local people. That means that supermarkets been fascinated by the comments made about the need in general, and in our case Tesco in particular, will have for more cars. There is lots of evidence that improving a very large market share in one place. the walking environment increases retail footfall by 691 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 692 Streets Streets 30%, as a study in Exeter has found. People who walk in James Wharton: My hon. Friend has drawn on several shopping areas and cycle there or take the bus and train things happening in his town of Swindon. Does he spend more money because they have access. We have to agree that they demonstrate that town centres, high promote sustainable travel. I call on Ministers to look at streets and markets are not just centres of economic how we can empower our local communities and give activity, but the beating heart of many communities? them the powers they need to ensure that we have vibrant centres. Justin Tomlinson: I thank my hon. Friend for that excellent intervention. That is right. By giving young people the opportunity to get real-life 7.59 pm experience on the market, we may find that they become Justin Tomlinson (North Swindon) (Con): I would the next generation of market traders or, even, shop like to join the long list of Members who have congratulated retailers, and they create the independent retail outlets my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones), that give our town centres unique character. who has carried out an exceptional role in promoting Many hon. Members and hon. Friends have discussed our town centres and high streets. I was very proud to the importance of business rates, and I welcome the fact co-sponsor the call to get this debate through the Backbench that we are giving greater powers to local authorities. As Business Committee, and we have been proved right with all things, there is a limited amount of money, but that this would be exceptionally popular and justify the I hope that if they target anything, they will provide full six hours. incentives for start-up businesses and, perhaps in particular, I am particularly interested in the issue, both as young people’s start-up businesses. shopper, when following my fiancé round and carrying Parking has been mentioned several times, and I am the bags. I support my local town centre and am the vice delighted that Swindon has been praised in the Portas chair of the all-party parliamentary group for town review, because its local council took a brave decision— centres, retail and small shops. I have set up a retail opposed by Labour councillors who seemed hellbent on forum in my constituency; I support our excellent local abandoning our town centre—to introduce a £2 flat fee bid company in Swindon; I invite retailers such as Lord for four hours’ parking. That reversed the fall in footfall, Wolfson to visit and pass judgment on our town centre; we had a 10% increase and, crucially, dwell time increased, and I grew up in a family of shopkeepers who modelled too. In fact, one café reported a 30% increase in takings, themselves on the “Open All Hours” sales technique. so where, previously, people went into town just to do Nationally, the last few years have been tough on their banking, now they stop off in a café to refuel and, high streets, with consumers wielding less disposable then, carry on to do some serious spending, which is a income, high-profile retail failures leading to large numbers real boost for our local economy. of empty shops, the growth of out-of-town shopping It is right to highlight the need for town centres to be centres and the continued boom in online shopping. accessible, attractive and safe, and I was delighted to see For example, this December saw an 18% increase on the £20 million parade redevelopment in Swindon, and last December in such shopping, and one in 10 consumers that the council has invested £2.8 million in the public, now uses their phone in-store to check the price of open space in the town centre. It is also important to goods elsewhere. recognise the transition between the daytime and night-time For all those fans of Swindon—I know everybody economies, and with the plans to introduce a late-night loves Swindon—I must say that even we have had levy I suggest that the units paying the levy have a say in challenges. Over the past five years, there has been a how it is spent, as they understand the night-time 22% fall in footfall, and the number of empty units is up economy. to 17%, but there is much hope on the horizon. The exceptional sign-off rule for all new out-of-town Turning to the excellent Mary Portas review, I, as her developments has also been highlighted, but we had a unofficial official No. 1 MP fan, am a great supporter of town centre Marks & Spencer, and the company planned it, and for me the key recommendations included, very to build another store on the northern orbital, at an importantly, the need for a town team. We have the out-of-town site. A deal was struck, however, whereby it Forward Swindon company in Swindon, because developers would refurbish the town centre store first, so it remained and retailers want a single point of contact. Out-of-town the anchor, destination store. shopping centres have a single point of contact, and On affordable shops, it is important to secure the next that is what is needed on our high streets. It is important generation of independent retailers, and I fully support to empower bid schemes, which are essential for creating the need for several small units as the entry point for events, for marketing and for representing traders—for those new businesses. creating that reason to visit and for making the particular I fully agree with the comments about doing everything town a town centre. I wish the company in Swindon all we can to tackle the number of empty shops, and I am the best in the referendum to get a second five-year delighted that our Brunel shopping centre has reduced term. I am sure it will. its vacancy rate to just 4%, partly on the back of It is very important to promote the national market cheaper parking and partly on the back of pushing days. We all say that we would like more markets in our landlords to make the units useful. constituencies, but the challenge is the lack of market traders, so I am delighted that today New college in my James Wharton: In the light of many comments that constituency and the Blunsdon indoor market have we have heard on the Floor of the House today, did my agreed to work with me to give business students the hon. Friend just say—did I hear him right?—that cheaper opportunity to man stalls on the market for free in parking has helped to deliver success at his local shopping order to get real-life experience. centres? It would be useful if he clarified that point. 693 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 694 Streets Streets Justin Tomlinson: Absolutely, and I know that my and, having served on a town team as a council hon. Friend highlighted a campaign on parking in his representative for many years, I have to say that we speech. Footfall had fallen by 22%, but following the struggled because of over-regulation, difficulty and the reduction in car parking charges it has increased by lack of funding—even at that time, with lavish support 10%, and dwell time has increased significantly, benefiting from the regional development agency, which achieved local businesses. almost nothing. Town teams are fine, but nothing will For all those fans of the various Mary Portas TV happen without the driving force of a local authority, programmes, page 43 of the report touches on another because it controls planning, traffic movement and car area—the need for retailers also to step up to the mark, parking. particularly in customer service and by offering something Much has been said of car parking. Of course, we different. We will not stop supermarkets or out-of-town would all love to see zero charges, but the reality is that shopping centres, and arguably we should not have to, car parking provides a net income. I wrestled with this because it is up to the market if people choose to go to matter when I was a member of my local authority’s them, but there is an opportunity for retailers to offer cabinet, where car parking had a net income of something better and different. £1.25 million. Yes, that can be reduced. North Lincolnshire There are two examples in my constituency. The council, which is another authority in my constituency, Bloomfields deli in Highworth opened when people has brought in some imaginative ideas and encouraged said that it was absolutely mad to do so, but because it growth. offered unique products and exceptional customer service it has thrived and opened a further two stores. The Nigel Mills: Does my hon. Friend agree that when Forum clothes store has been trading for 17 years and councils get the power to keep any increase in their local seen off all sorts of national chains, which have come business rates, we will soon see whether they are convinced and gone as fashions have changed, but by building on that by reducing parking charges, they can generate customer service and offering products that are not extra business rates and therefore extra revenue? Cutting immediately available elsewhere it has remained standing car parking charges might not be a lose-lose game, but much longer than the main competition. rather a win-win game. All is not lost, and there is much positive work to do. Members, the Government, local authorities and retailers Martin Vickers: My hon. Friend has made the point have roles to play, and I very much hope that, with my that I was just coming to, so I will skip a few points. promotion of Mary Portas at every opportunity, we in However, we have to recognise the difficulties that local Swindon will have an opportunity to secure our status authorities face in this regard. as one of the pilot schemes, because we are all behind it. Recommendation 15 of the report talks about an “affordable shops” quota in large new developments. 8.6 pm That idea sounds fine, but the businesses that would be drawn to such developments are probably those that are Martin Vickers (Cleethorpes) (Con): I shall take a currently in secondary shopping areas, such as the long slightly less supportive position on the Portas report parades of shops that most towns have, where many of than my hon. Friend the Member for North Swindon the shops are boarded up or are used as charity shops. (Justin Tomlinson), who just made a very effective The recommendation might lead to more decay and contribution to the debate. dereliction in those secondary areas. We must consider I recognise that our local communities want to retain the knock-on effects. their high streets and town centres, and ultimately it is Overall, the report is to be welcomed, if for no other in their hands: they will determine where they shop. My reason than that it has generated a lively debate in the hon. Friend the Member for Amber Valley (Nigel Mills) House today, with excellent contributions. That will pointed out the attractions of supermarkets because of feed through into our local communities, where the their all-embracing services at almost every hour of the debate will continue. day and night, but we certainly have to do something to restrict out-of-town developments and to retain the While I have the opportunity, I will put one point to vibrancy of our town centres, because that is what the the Minister again. We hear much about the regeneration people who we represent most certainly want. of our cities, which are indeed engines of economic My constituency boasts in Barton-upon-Humber a growth. I ask him not to forget the provincial towns, very good market town, and in Cleethorpes itself the many of which are a long way from a major city. There main shopping centre on St Peter’s avenue boasts not should not be too much concentration on cities at the only the MP’s constituency office, but a lively and expense of the many provincial towns in my region, excellent selection of shops. Another town in my such as Grimsby, Cleethorpes, Halifax and Huddersfield. constituency, Immingham, has a reasonable mix of shops, but it, like other places, is desperate. It wants Rory Stewart (Penrith and The Border) (Con): How Tesco as part of its regeneration, and I am pleased to does my hon. Friend suggest we communicate politically say that it is almost about to happen, but we have to the value of market towns as opposed to cities? recognise that point. I do not have time to touch on all the recommendations Martin Vickers: That is a challenging question. The in the Portas report, so we can take it as read that I reality is that we have been trying to revitalise our support most of them, but the town team recommendation towns. As I have said, I served for a long time on my envisages local authority. I was also a member of the Local “a visionary, strategic and strong operational management team” Government Association’s urban commission. We had 695 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 696 Streets Streets countless presentations from highly paid consultants on the benefit of reducing the cost of living for many how this could be achieved, but many of the ideas fell people by reducing the price of basic essentials and the flat because there was not the support of local communities. general grocery bill? The report mentions reinvigorating high streets with Rory Stewart: I agree absolutely. That is why the market traders. In principle, that is fine, but I remember argument that we have to make is not an easy one. We being the councillor responsible for allowing that to have to make it because everybody in this Chamber— happen and there was a mass uprising among existing indeed, everyone in this country—believes deeply in the shopkeepers, who immediately came to me saying, “I value of our high streets and market towns. It is not an pay my rates and my dues and you are allowing these easy argument to make because in terms of price, people to drift in, many of whom have no connection market competition and, fundamentally, choice, it is with the town and the community.” It is a difficult difficult to continue to defend the high street. In order balance to achieve. to do so, we need to reach for more imaginative arguments. We have to recognise that the success or failure of our We need to explain, above all, the value of public high streets and town centres relies ultimately on the space. The great thing about any high street or market customers. It will be determined by the market forces. I town is that it offers somewhere that is different from want to see our town centres and high streets thrive with the workplace and the home: a civic space in which one imaginative ideas from local shopkeepers, but ultimately interacts with other people. The point of it is not simply the customer is king. Past Times went into administration a shopping or retail experience, but those innumerable a day or two ago; we must hope that high streets do not miniature encounters and exchanges of advice and wisdom belong to times past. that create the warp and weft of a community. That is a huge capital resource that we rely on when we talk about the big society, when we look for voluntary activity or 8.14 pm when we fight for our local assets, such as in Penrith Rory Stewart (Penrith and The Border) (Con): That where we are fighting to save our cinema. We need that was a powerful concluding statement from my hon. local identity and it is conveyed primarily in our lives Friend the Member for Cleethorpes (Martin Vickers), through the experience of a town or high street. who laid out the complexity of the situation. Mr Marcus Jones: Does my hon. Friend agree that The truth is that over the past six decades our policy the ambience and experience of the town centre is on market towns and high streets has been an astonishing extremely important? The town centre manager in failure. Government after Government have tried almost Nuneaton has a strong track record of putting on everything. They have played around with parking and entertainment such as Punch and Judy shows, theatre with rates, and they have changed the planning regulations. shows, mini opera companies and brass bands. Does my The result has been a catastrophic disaster. We have hon. Friend agree that such things add to the ambience gone from 43,000 butchers in 1950 to 10,000 in 2000. and experience when people go to our town centres? We have gone from 41,000 greengrocers to 10,000. The number of fishmongers is now a fifth of what it used to Rory Stewart: Absolutely. Of course, that is a central be and the number of bakers is a quarter of what it used insight of this debate: a town centre is not simply about to be. a shopping or retail experience, but about a much broader community experience that can range from The question is, what do we do? We first need to be puppets to the visual elements and even the aesthetics. tough and serious in recognising the problem. The One reason that Appleby in my constituency is such an problem is not simply that out-of-town retailers are appealing place is its architecture. The extraordinary large, muscular bullies. First, their growth reflects the asymmetry and symmetry of our red sand stone, the fact that it is more convenient to locate a business out of castle on the top of the hill, the Moot hall and the town. It is, of course, cheaper and easier to set up out of market cross create something that it would be impossible town. A shop can have night time deliveries, the rates to replicate in a modern retail space. Those things are are much more transparent and it is easier to develop a not about shopping. retail space that suits the retailer. Secondly, as my hon. Friend the Member for Cleethorpes said, customers are The other important point from Nuneaton is local selecting out-of-town retailers for their shopping. Thirdly, leadership, which is what we need to represent a town we need to acknowledge that although out-of-town centre and compete with an incredibly able retail manager retailers have had a disastrous impact on our high at a Tesco or Waitrose. That is why we should look streets and market towns, they have had a very good again at local democracy and elected local mayors. If impact on the products in our shops. When my neighbour we ask why a French town is vibrant and able to say no first moved to Penrith in 1955 from the United States, to a local supermarket, whereas in Penrith a Sainsbury’s the only way in which one could buy olive oil was to go appeared even though I reckon 90% of the community to the chemist and buy it in a bottle of about 25 ml for opposed it, we realise that a great deal of that is due to medicinal purposes. the lack of a local leader and champion, the elected mayor, who can say no. So what are we going to do? As everybody has said in this debate, we need clearly to define the value of towns We can also do an enormous amount to support and high streets. councils by getting rid of regulations and ensuring that if, for example, Penrith wished to challenge the supermarket, it could be confident in the judicial review process and Mark Pawsey (Rugby) (Con): Does my hon. Friend confident that the planning laws would suit it. There could agree that in addition to providing a broader range of perhaps even be insurance if it were defeated, so that it products, the supermarkets that he refers to have brought did not feel horribly financially exposed. 697 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 698 Streets Streets [Rory Stewart] the student market but, as he says, a year-round market? They have to appeal to both students and non-students Finally, and most importantly for Conservative Members, for the whole 12 months. we must understand that this is a fundamentally conservative campaign in the best sense of the word. It Oliver Colvile: I fully agree, and licensed premises are is not about a grand vision of central planning and also incredibly important. We now have more licensed rationality, or a notion that some expert in a capital, or premises in Plymouth city centre than there are in the in Tesco’s headquarters, can define exactly what is required whole of Liverpool, which is quite a striking fact given for every community. It is about taking what is already that the population of Plymouth is about 250,000 and there—our historic inheritance. It is often an inconvenient Liverpool’s is significantly bigger. There has been a inheritance for parking, rates or the space for shops, but tendency for local authorities of all political parties in we can make something of that history and tradition. the area to move the culture of Union street, of which Above all, we can have not simply shopping but a sense those who know Plymouth will be aware, out to Mutley of the warp and weft, the interaction and the human Plain and the Barbican. That has had real implications, spirit of community that once made us proud to be including for the local police’s work to maintain law called a nation of shopkeepers, which will be difficult to and order. We need a much more balanced approach. retain without any shops at all. When I was working commercially—Members will be delighted to know that I am not any more, although I 8.21 pm do have an interest in my own business—I was aware of Oliver Colvile (Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport) how defensive some landowners could get about looking (Con): I, too, pay tribute to my hon. Friend the Member after their stakeholdings. They wanted to ensure that if for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) for securing the debate and there was development, it would not affect their commercial ensuring that the Backbench Business Committee listened interests badly. There was one city in the south of to his remarks. The depth of the conversation that has England where we did a lot of work, and I had a client taken place today has clearly indicated the leadership there who owned about £40 million of assets in the that he demonstrated. town centre. He had great difficulty in talking to the local authority and getting it to work with him to Before I go any further, may I declare an interest? I develop his part of the town. It became a very big still have shares in a company that I set up some five or problem, and it ended up with the local authority trying six years ago, which deals in giving advice to property to get his land by compulsory purchase order, with all developers on how to manage public consultation and the implications that went with that. It is very important on ensuring that they get their political messages across. that local authorities should not try to be developers by I suspect that in the next five minutes I will demonise proxy, because that is a disaster. It has delayed the myself as being responsible for an awful lot of the regeneration of that town by a significant time. problems that have occurred. Some of the people with whom I ended up working were from supermarkets and food retailers, so I have some understanding of what Mr Marcus Jones: Will my hon. Friend comment, on they do. the basis of the professional expertise that he has just First, I wish to talk about Plymouth, which is the outlined, on the suggestion that we heard earlier that largest urban conurbation west of Bristol. It is a low-skilled the abolition of the upward-only rent review might and low-wage economy, and as Members know it is the benefit the regeneration of our town centres? home—or I should say a home—of the Royal Navy. My constituency runs south of the A38 and from the River Oliver Colvile: We need to do everything we can to Plym to the River Tamar. It has a city centre in it, and I encourage as much footfall as possible in town centres. am uniquely a very strong urban Tory. I therefore hope If I were a retailer, I would want people passing by to that I can talk about the impact of what is happening. come into my shop. One thing that I learned at a very We were badly bombed during the war, and a lot of early stage when I got involved in the whole business of the property in the constituency is now beginning to development was that planners liked to have one anchor look a little shabby and needs work doing to it. However, store at one end of the town and another at the other we do have a university, which is a key part of ensuring end. I think that is quite a positive story, because people that regeneration takes place. I would be grateful if the end up walking from one side of the town to the other university considered how it could include some retail and doing their shopping in the small shops in between. activity on its premises, because there are major implications I am very keen to ensure that town centres are the for the city in July and August when the university has major places in which we encourage investment, but we gone down. must understand that in so doing we put up rents and There is a proposal by English Heritage to list the city some smaller shops cannot operate. We need to encourage centre, which I do not think is a very clever thing to do. people to set up niche businesses, such as bakers, butchers, All that will do is put the whole thing into aspic and fishmongers and so on. discourage the growth of the retail sector. We must ensure that we deliver a master plan approach. When development is taking place in our towns, we Nicky Morgan (Loughborough) (Con): I am interested need to look at the sites and get the local community by what my hon. Friend says about universities and involved in making the decision on what they want students. In my constituency we have a large university there. There must be community benefits. When I gave in a town of 50,000 people. Does he agree that when advice to developers, including Sainsbury’s, I would councils and shop builders plan town centres and retail always say, “When you are looking at your campaign, offerings, it is important that they think about not only you have to consider what consumers and electorates 699 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 700 Streets Streets will think is in it for them,” which means developing called the “WinterFest” helped drive footfall across the good community consultation. We have worked hard whole month. That was vital at that critical time of on that key aspect in my constituency. year. Conservatives have a good story to tell. After all, To build that momentum, it was vital that we sought Nicholas Ridley introduced the planning process in the to engage stakeholders more fully. We needed to get first place, and John Gummer, as Secretary of State for local businesses, community groups and the council the Environment, introduced the concept of planning together, so we created a business breakfast. It was not policy statements—we are now on PPS 4, which is on so much a “town team” as the Portas report describes, ensuring that stuff goes into the town centre. We have a but more a good old-fashioned town hall meeting. In good story to tell, but there is further to go. I very much engaging those businesses and community groups—about encourage my right hon. Friend the Minister to ensure 120 come out every couple of months—we have created that the Portas report is used and implemented. a real agenda for progress. We have created our own brand identity—by the 8.29 pm community, for the community—and an economic forum. That really is our “town team” as defined by Mary David Rutley (Macclesfield) (Con): I, too, congratulate Portas. However we define it, that partnership, and—dare my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) I say it?—that coalition has helped to create and strengthen on securing this debate on this vital subject. It is an our initiatives to help to take the town forward. important day for town centres around the country, but it is also a very important evening for Macclesfield The creation of the economic forum led to a whole-town Town football club, who are playing a well deserved vision, which has helped to create the confidence for replay at the Reebok against premier league Bolton. local businesses to invest. Wilson Bowden is considering a town centre development in Macclesfield—one of the [HON.MEMBERS: “What’s the latest score?”] Nil-nil. We will win yet. few being considered across the country—and Tesco has expressed an interest in dramatically increasing the I welcome the Government’s decision to set up the size of its edge-of-town unit as well as its town centre high street review and congratulate Mary Portas on her Metro store. My message is similar to that of my hon. exceptional work and on producing an action-oriented Friend the Member for Fylde (Mark Menzies): at these set of recommendations. Most of all, I pass on my moments in the life of communities such as Macclesfield, thanks to the shopkeepers, entrepreneurs, and businessmen it is vital that national retailers and developers show and women around the country who work tirelessly day that they are going to be part of the solution, rather in, day out, to put our high streets at the heart of our than exacerbating the problem. It is vital that they show communities. They do so very capably, particularly in commitment and energy in supporting the community, Macclesfield. just as so many other stakeholders are doing, up and Macclesfield is an historical and energetic town, nestled down the country. beneath the hills of the Peak district. It has real character In my remaining 10 seconds, I would like to say to the and an independent spirit. In Georgian days, Macclesfield Minister and to Mary Portas that Macclesfield stands was the world’s biggest producer of finished silk, and ready to take part in one of the pilots. We think that we the town continued to thrive in prosperity for centuries would be a leading light in culture and heritage-led after, but in recent years the town centre has suffered regeneration— from the opening of the Trafford centre and the Handforth Dean retail park, and the uncertainty of future plans Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo): Order. for the town centre that were stalled by the credit There is no injury time for football scores, I am afraid, crunch. By its own successful standards, the town centre and the hon. Gentleman has run out of time. felt tired, and in 2008 or 2009 there was a growing appreciation that something had to be done. 8.34 pm The response from the community was terrific—positive and action-oriented. I am particularly keen to share Lorely Burt (Solihull) (LD): I was born and brought that experience and hope that it is of interest to colleagues up in Dudley. Dudley has been somewhat disparaged and those who might be listening, just as we are keen in this evening, but I want to tell colleagues that it used to Macclesfield to learn from other communities. be the place to go. For me, Cranage’s coffee shop was the place to hang out. For my mum, it was Cook’s or We have learned through our efforts in regenerating Beattie’s department stores. However, following the closure and revitalising the town centre that the key ingredients of a huge local steelworks called Round Oak, Government are belief, confidence and building momentum. A critical subsidies were used to create a new shopping centre milestone for us was re-establishing the Barnaby festival called Merry Hill on that site—with free car parking, in June 2010. Barnaby was a centuries-old tradition that of course. Merry Hill sucked the lifeblood out of Dudley. had fallen into decline, but it was completely reinvented Cook’s was lost, but Beattie’s stubbornly hung on for and resurrected as an arts and culture-led festival by the many years. It was a family firm determined to buck the community, for the community. trend and keep the town together. Barnaby was a huge success and led other community Today, as the MP for Solihull, I have fought, along entrepreneurs to establish a monthly treacle market. with my party and local residents, against an Asda That market, which again is run by the community, for superstore being built on precious parkland on our high the community, has gone from strength to strength. street—the Stratford road in Shirley. We lost. The As confidence has grown, more events have followed. Conservative-led council forced the decision through. There was a programme of events to celebrate the We are about to find out whether we are right to believe 750th anniversary of the Macclesfield town charter, and that the Asda will suck the lifeblood out of the small last December, as if from nowhere, a schedule of events independent shops on the high street, or whether the 701 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 702 Streets Streets [Lorely Burt] speak. I represent Llandudno, the second most popular shopping centre in north Wales—unfortunately, the most developers are right in saying that it will attract more popular one was the subject of a hymn of praise from people who will magically spill out on to the high street my hon. Friend the Member for City of Chester (Stephen and create more footfall. Mosley). However, Llandudno is a very attractive shopping Now the Conservatives are planning to introduce car centre, mainly because it has retained its character as an parking charges to Shirley for anything longer than a old Victorian seaside resort. Llandudno is known as the 30-minute stay. That is crazy. It will mean that the queen of Welsh resorts, and that is still very much the hard-working shopkeepers will be starved of business case. The credit for that has to go to Mostyn Estates, because people will be unwilling to pay the charges, which owns the freehold of a large percentage of the town. especially when there is free parking down the road at That is why I am so concerned about certain aspects an out-of-centre Sainsbury’s and Tesco’s. Councils should of the Portas report. There are many good things in it, be looking for ways of encouraging people to use local but when a landlord is willing to work extremely hard to shops, not discouraging them from doing so. I have big retain the retail centre in Llandudno—Mostyn Estates worries that this will be the last straw for Shirley. works extremely hard and constructively to do that—it That is what is happening now, but what of the is of concern to read comments in the report stating future? Do we have to march inexorably down this that landlords with vacant spaces must be further road? Are the town centre and the high street doomed? encouraged or possibly penalised. We have an issue with Tonight we have heard many facts about the decline in empty property rates relief lasting only three months trade and in the number of high street shops, but I do for retail premises, and I would be loth to see Mostyn not think that they are doomed. There will always be a Estate’s ability to support the development of retail in need for town centres. They are not just places to get Llandudno damaged by a further penalty for having commodities; they are venues in themselves, incorporating empty properties. They are often empty not because of restaurants, entertainment and places to meet up with any failure by Mostyn Estates to market them properly, friends, to socialise, to browse and to be seen. Touchwood, but because of economic circumstances. in the centre of Solihull, is an excellent example; it demonstrates how a good shopping centre can thrive. I shall try to explain that in detail. I spoke recently to the chief executive of Mostyn Estates, and he made the A recent Experian report identified that frustrations important point that when a small business looks to with online shopping are driving consumers back to the locate in a retail centre, it will have a certain amount of high street. Deliveries can be slow or even non-existent, money available for rent and rates. In Llandudno, the and the goods often do not match the online descriptions. rates are so high that the rent paid to Mostyn Estates is When we go shopping, we can see exactly what we are often lower than the rates that the same businesses pay getting, and have the instant gratification of being able, out. Time and again, Mostyn Estates has been willing in most cases, to take our purchases home with us. to reduce its rents to keep a tenant in place even though The high street must respond to changing consumer the rates have not been reduced. I am concerned, therefore, expectations and offer a great experience to shoppers. about that proposition in the report. On the whole, business improvement districts have done well in concentrating on that, and they can do more. I I am also slightly concerned about the tendency in have been banging on for years about local communities’ this debate to view the supermarket chains as a danger need for empowerment in relation to the design and to the retail high street. Yes, that can be the case, character of their shopping centres. Developers who especially if the development is out of town, but Llandudno come in with a “we know best” attitude could be in for a has seen the development of retail parks and centres fight, as was the case in the Shirley development. within walking distance of the high street, and some footfall has gone from the supermarkets to the high I support the Association of Convenience Stores’ streets. Yes, the centre of gravity within the town has sequential test to ensure that all sites close to a town changed, but the town has retained its attraction to centre are considered before out-of-town developments shoppers. are allowed. Both the ACS and the Portas review support a presumption in favour of town centre development, I was taken by the speech from my hon. Friend the and I totally agree we should have a “town centre first” Member for Penrith and The Border (Rory Stewart), principle in the national planning policy framework. who highlighted the fact that a town centre must be As for parking charges, out-of-town centres clearly more than just a shopping centre; it must be a focus for have a competitive advantage, and I support the idea of public engagement and enjoyment of life. In Conwy, councils being given new tools to raise revenue specifically another small town in my constituency, that is exactly to support access to, and the regeneration of, high what we have seen. Some 10 or 15 years ago, Conwy was streets. Given that business rates can now be repatriated on its knees, yet an enterprising local butcher, as it to local authorities, I am sure that a way can be found happens, decided to invest significantly in developing for that to be done. There is more than one way to skin a his local shop, which resulted in the business going from cat, and we must find a way to even up the playing field strength to strength. Indeed, Edwards of Conwy, the so that all retailers have a fair chance to get a fair maker of the finest sausages in the United Kingdom, market share. recently won a major contract to export its produce to Malaysia, in addition to supplying all the supermarkets. 8.39 pm That investment is important. It created the feeling in Guto Bebb (Aberconwy) (Con): I congratulate my Conwy that they could develop and revitalise the town hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on as a shopping centre by highlighting the food offer. In securing this debate, in which it is a great privilege to Conwy, we now have wine shops, delicatessens, restaurants, 703 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 704 Streets Streets high-quality hotels and, to crown it all, the food festival level of growth that can provide the infrastructure levy every October, which is a huge success. In other words, that will fund the bypass we need, while keeping Conwy has decided to reinvent itself as a destination. Attleborough as the beautiful market town in which When we consider the future of the high street, it is people want to live and work. In Watton, the heart of important to recognise that we cannot fight the tide of the Wayland valley, there are huge pressures on the high history: we cannot fight the fact that people now buy street, with closures of traditional stores and huge local from Amazon. Before Christmas, I went to the Llandudno concern that the town centre is losing its viability. post office and was struck by the number of parcels Why, then, am I optimistic? After several decades in from Amazon. We cannot fight that type of development, which our town centres, in the words of my hon. Friend but we can offer something completely different. We the Member for Penrith and The Border (Rory Stewart), can say to people, “Come to Conwy. Come and shop in have been “woefully badly catered for”, I believe that we Conwy. You’llsee something completely different offered have serious grounds to be optimistic. First, because by small, independent retailers who will sell you something people care—and such care has been demonstrated that you will not see anywhere else.” today in the level, strength and depth of opinion voiced So I have two examples in my constituency of where in this debate, while our residents also care, as evidenced we have seen the ability of a good landlord, in Llandudno, by the 300 or 400 people due to turn up on Wymondham and innovative local retailers, in Conwy, to make a real on Friday evening. difference; and yes the supermarkets can contribute to Secondly, I am confident because around the country footfall in high streets, but they can also be a danger. In there are inspiring examples of enlightened local council Llanrwst, another small town in my constituency, there leaders, town councils, residents associations and, indeed, is a proposal for a Tesco store. The one comment made of best practice, which have shown that it is possible to to me by a shopkeeper was: “Why can it offer to build a combine the one-stop shop convenience of an out-of-town school or swimming pool for the local authority? If I supermarket that people with busy lives need with the did that, I would be accused of taking advantage of the heritage, community and authentic local community system.” experience of a well run and well organised town centre. These things are not beyond the wit of man. 8.44 pm I am confident, thirdly, because of the Government’s George Freeman (Mid Norfolk) (Con): I add my measures, including the Localism Bill, community planning name to the list of those congratulating my hon. Friend measures, the big society, the emphasis on the rebalanced the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) on securing this economy, the localisation of business rates and the important debate and I congratulate the Backbench support for small business generally. Business Committee on arranging it. At this stage of Fourthly, I am confident because the public themselves the debate, there is little left to add to the excellent are showing in their retail habits a growing demand for contributions of so many hon. Members, particularly the local, the artisanal, the authentic and for an increased of my hon. Friends. I want to highlight one or two of interest and involvement in the retail experience seen as the concerns I share with others for my Mid Norfolk an authentic part of the community of which they are constituency, but as we move to the close I want to part. I am confident, fifthly, because of the measures on focus on some of the positives, as I believe there are a broadband. number of reasons for being positive about the future of our market towns, particularly our rural market towns. In my Mid Norfolk constituency we might have been Mid Norfolk is not an affluent constituency. We are neglected by successive Governments for 30 or 40 years, not part of the celebrated Norfolk triangle, and we are but if we put all these measures together, along with the not part of the “gold coast”; Burnham market is a long investment in the Cambridge-Norwich railway line, in way from my constituency. Our average income is about the A11, in rural broadband and in science at the £17,500 a year; we have four market towns and 114 villages. Norwich research park, I would submit that our area is Many of the problems described today are all too on the cusp of a renaissance—a renaissance that we evident as one travels in Dereham, my capital, the ancient describe and seek to promote locally through a project heart of Norfolk. We have recently seen the closure of called the Norfolk way, a renaissance of small businesses Chambers, the celebrated and historic store. I was recently coming back to the countryside in converted barns and delighted to receive a petition from the town’s residents converted turkey sheds, empowered with globally to the Co-op, asking it to change its decision to close. competitive information technology and trading between the hubs of Cambridge and Norwich. In Wymondham, home of the great abbey and the place of Robert Kett’s rebellion, I have the pleasure this If we can have a vibrant rural economy, we will have Friday of chairing a meeting at which 400 residents are a chance to have vibrant market towns. For no one are due to come to talk about the town’s plan, as it faces an those market towns more important than for the people application from Asda for a development in the middle trading in the rural economy. I close with the suggestion of the town. There is a huge appetite to discuss issues that we can be optimistic provided that we take the energy around sustainable development, facilities for the young of today and channel it into the enlightened policies of and the old, and ensuring that we have a genuine tomorrow. long-term plan that looks at the needs of Wymondham over the next 20 years—not just for Wymondham either, but for the surrounding villages that rely on it, too. 8.49 pm In Attleborough, zoned for development under Labour’s James Morris (Halesowen and Rowley Regis) (Con): regional spatial strategy and to be doubled in size with I join others in thanking the hon. Member for Nuneaton 4,000 houses, the challenge is to come up with the right (Mr Jones) for securing the debate. 705 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 706 Streets Streets [James Morris] in many instances, the financial cost prevents it from being a viable option. Councils that offer business rate The real added value of high streets is their importance relief in such circumstances still have to pay the money to our communities. Our high streets are literally at the to the central fund although they are not receiving the centre of town life, and are a vital part of our towns’ revenue from the rates. The Government’s proposals to identities. One of my first campaigns after I was selected allow some or all of the revenue obtained from business as the candidate for my seat was a fight against proposals rates to be retained locally could be used to allow more to close local post offices. The loss, or downgrading, of discretion in the way in which local authorities offer local services such as post offices in our town centres business rate holidays and other reliefs. I hope that the has taken away many of the reasons for people to come Government will consider that as they develop their into the high street rather than travelling to out-of-town proposals in the Local Government Finance Bill. shopping centres. That has had an impact on high street At their best, town centres such as Halesowen make traders who were already facing significant challenges shopping more than a purely commercial transaction. as a result of changing shopping habits. We should be proud of the work that is being done to Cradley Heath in my constituency has recently had enable high streets to compete in an age of Amazon and direct experience of the difficulties faced by local high eBay, but we must also continue to look for new ways to streets. Three years ago, a large supermarket was built make our town centres more attractive. That means a on a bypass going past the town centre. It is almost as if partnership between local and national Government, everything, from the positioning of the store to the road local businesses and the wider community that will layout, had been designed with the express intention of enable local solutions to address local challenges. taking as many people as possible away from Cradley I welcome the Government’s commissioning of the Heath high street, and the effect on local traders has Portas review. I look forward to seeing its recommendations been enormous. Had Sandwell council acted with more being put into practice and action being taken to help care, there could surely have been an alternative that put our high streets at the very heart of our local would have kept trade from supermarket shoppers in communities. the town helping high street traders. That is a lesson that must be learnt for future development. We need to find ways of making town centres more 8.54 pm attractive so that people want to be in them, and to take advantage of the things that they can offer and out-of-town Mark Pawsey (Rugby) (Con): I congratulate my centres and online stores cannot. We have seen that in constituency neighbour, my hon. Friend the Member the town centre of Halesowen, the largest town in my for Nuneaton (Mr Jones), on stimulating a lively, interesting constituency, which grew from being a market town and largely well-attended debate. We must support our after the war to being a “border town” at the edge of the town centres. If we do not, we will witness their demise, Birmingham and black country conurbations. That had and the economic, environmental, retail and community an effect on the town centre, which found itself facing value of those centres will be lost. Anyone who has strong competition first from Birmingham city centre visited the United States, where there are fewer planning and then from the new Merry Hill shopping centre that controls than we have had in the UK, will have seen was built in the 1980s. Familiar local names disappeared many towns with holed-out centres where there is little from the centre, to be replaced by chain stores and life or activity, but also with a doughnut of development empty premises. all around of large-scale retail shopping centres. In recent years, however, Dudley council, the chamber My constituency has fared rather better than most in of trade and other partners have worked to turn the relation to the recent changes in town centres. The town centre around. A new bus station has been built Association of Convenience Stores states that the average next to the main shopping area, there is an indoor level of vacant shop units is 14%. The situation in market plaza to help small traders to set up in the town, Rugby has improved, however. The vacancy rate was and there have been initiatives such as Halesowen in just 3% in 2007. It then rose to between 8% and 10% at bloom. None of those constitutes a “magic bullet”, but the peak of the recession in 2008. Since then the proportion each helps to make shopping in Halesowen a more has fallen back to 6.25%. That compares very favourably pleasant experience. The results can be seen in an increased with the national average. footfall in the town, and in reports from local businesses As elsewhere, there have been recent shop closures in that things really do seem to be picking up. Rugby as a consequence of difficult Christmas trading, We need to find new ways of giving people a reason but I pay tribute to our progressive forward-thinking to come to the high street. We should consider initiatives council. It is aware of the problem and has taken action such as town centre loyalty cards to retain business in to deal with it, including through adopting a flexible our towns. We also need local authorities to exercise approach to planning and introducing “moving in” more flexibility to ensure that town centre premises do grants of up to about £5,000, which often go to smaller not remain empty for too long, and we need Government independent businesses. The total spend on that has help to make that possible. In December, Halesowen been £70,000 over three or four years, and it has been an police set up a “cop shop” in a vacant shop in the town effective investment. centre, offering crime prevention help and advice to This is a national problem, however, and we all must Christmas shoppers. It brought together other public consider what to do to halt the decline in high street services and agencies, and proved very popular. retail. It is important to understand what is happening More such initiatives would be possible if local authorities in retail. Many Members have referred to the influence were able to offer business rate holidays, or similar of the internet and have rightly stated that we cannot support. Although councils have legal powers to do that fight the power of the internet. According to the House 707 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 708 Streets Streets of Commons Library, just 3% of retail purchases were does not become part of clone town Britain. National made on the internet in January 2007, but the internet Government and local government have parts to play in now accounts for 12% of UK retail trade. that, along with local initiatives, both individual and Local communities have two options. With a decline collective. The Government need to be careful about of 12% in retail trade, it is clear that the number of expanding further out-of-town shops and other moves retail outlets and the amount of retail space must fall, in that direction. not necessarily by the full 12% but certainly to some A local initiative that I wish to promote is one that I extent. Alternatively, the population in the local area call “centurion’s walk”, which is to involve just over must grow. I am delighted that Rugby is taking the latter 100 small, mainly locally owned independent stores, all approach, with a substantial development of 13,000 homes built on top of the Roman wall in the southern part of about to start on the Gateway site as well as development the original Roman city of Colchester. In addition, the due for 6,200 homes on the Mast site. East Anglian Daily Times has a “shop local” scheme There are many reasons why communities should and the East of England Co-operative Society sources embrace new housing. Our young people need homes, from local suppliers; that is very successful and I certainly and the new homes bonus provides an income stream recommend it. One way in which the national Government for local councils. New housing also supports our existing could help is by having a scheme where the first 500 square town centres. Communities should not complain about feet of retail space is free of business rates; I would like the decline of their town centres if they do not accept the Portas report to be adapted here. The money could more housing where that is possible. In areas where new be reclaimed by a levy on out-of-town supermarket car housing is not possible and town centres shrink, properties parks. I do not see why that could not be done. at the edge of the town centres should be able to be used Park and ride is vital for Colchester and for many for retail—indeed, many of them were originally developed other regional shopping centres. Unfortunately, Essex for retail use. We must react fluidly in order to adapt to county council, which is responsible for this, has not times of growth and decline. provided one single park and ride facility for Colchester, Communities should also develop their independent yet Chelmsford has two and Ipswich, over the border in stores. Rugby has a very successful independent sector Suffolk, has two. Our principal competitor towns, Ipswich in the Regent street and Albert street area, and The and Chelmsford, have been provided with park and Rugby Observer report on Christmas 2011 trading ride, but Essex county council has not provided the highlighted the success of independents in Rugby that same for us. Colchester is the only part of Essex that is give great service and flexibility in the range of products not Tory, and I suspect that that may be the reason why they sell. As elsewhere, chain stores did badly. I believe we are being discriminated against. that people are now bored by the uniformity of multiples, On localism and sustainable communities, my hon. and independents offer something different. We need Friend the Member for Waveney (Peter Aldous) quite more support for independent retailers, especially as properly drew attention to the number of empty floors that would effectively be backing winners. above shops, and it is important that we try to use those That was recognised in the Mary Portas review. She wherever possible. I also pay tribute to the Essex chamber visited our town and said in her report that she had of commerce and the Association of Convenience Stores, been very impressed with the “champions of change” which are battling in this area. This is not just about the she met in Rugby. They were not managers of national high street, because our neighbourhoods, suburbs and multiples, but independent entrepreneurial traders. They community centres are involved. must be encouraged. There is much good news and The Federation of Small Businesses has drawn attention much that can be done, and I look forward to hearing to the Portas review’s recommendation that the Government the Minister’s response to the debate. should consider whether the business rate system can support small businesses and independent retailers better. I invite the Minister to look at my suggestion that we 8.59 pm can help smaller shops—community shops and village Sir Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): Colchester’s Daily shops—by giving them a business rate holiday. I would Gazette today reported that the parent company of also like to mention indoor markets, because they have three shops in Colchester—Peacocks, Bon Marché and a lot to commend them. Keep Britain Tidy, too, points Past Times—had gone into administration. I know that out that its awards scheme is a way of encouraging local they are national firms, and my hope is that buyers will pride in our communities. Finally, I wish to mention be found and the businesses will continue, because they our good friends at the British Retail Consortium, who are an important part of the retail mix and they employ say: local people. Indeed, it was at Past Times that I bought “it is essential that Local Authorities across the country work a poster that said “Keep calm and carry on”, and I trust with retailers, cultural and heritage organisations, landlords and that that is what will happen. However, it is not all other local stakeholders to maximise the inherent advantage of doom and gloom. I am told by those who know about an individual area’s local heritage”. these things that Colchester has fared better than most places for retail sales. Indeed, our department store, 9.4 pm Williams & Griffin, one of those great local stores that Neil Carmichael (Stroud) (Con): Thank you for calling is now part of an independent group, has plans to me to speak, Madam Deputy Speaker, as we are about expand its floor space by 50%. to have—and are having—a very important debate. In Colchester High street is the oldest high street in my constituency a number of small towns are all Britain. It is built along the Roman road, which goes demonstrating the importance of localism. Stroud, Dursley, back to the time when Colchester was the first capital of Berkeley, Painswick and others are all effectively manifesting Roman Britain. I am anxious to ensure that Colchester what is necessary through the provision of strong local 709 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 710 Streets Streets [Neil Carmichael] and it is nice to see that it is also such a hot topic in so many other constituencies. There are two reasons for leadership and the delivery of sophisticated outcomes, that in my constituency, the first of which is that we because people know and understand what happens in have a very successful high street in Lindley, north of their local areas. That is one of the strengths of localism, Huddersfield, which I shall talk about in a moment. which is reinforced by the activities of chambers of Secondly, like many other colleagues in the Chamber, trade, which should also be saluted in this project. A we have worries about a proposed out-of-town supermarket good chamber, it seems to me, is one that knows and superstore. understands the shops and so on in its high street and My constituency is one of the biggest in the country. works hard to generate collective activity in generating I have 81,000 constituents, but only one major supermarket business and in interfacing with the local authorities —a Morrisons in Meltham, which heavily overtrades. It and other agencies. I salute such chambers. is incredibly busy, particularly at 5 o’clock on a Saturday We need to drill down on several issues, one of which evening. It is just up the road from where I live. There is the night-time economy. It seems to me that it is really are a couple of medium-sized Co-ops and a sort of important to recognise that there are different phases in Sainsbury’s Express in Salendine Nook. The supermarket the high street timetable, one of which involves what companies have identified that situation and both Tesco happens after the shops close. The restaurants, pubs and Lidl are looking to come into the outskirts of and cafés generate more activity, which is linked to what Holmfirth. happens in the shops. It is important for all our smallish Holmfirth is the “Last of the Summer Wine” town communities—that is what I am talking about from the from the BBC television series, which is home to Compo, vantage point of my constituency—to think in terms of Foggy and Cleggy—not that Cleggy of course, but the the night-time economy. Some years ago we had a one from the television. It is a very popular tourist seminar about that subject in Stroud, at which pub destination and a lovely market town, but Tesco is closures, the impact of night clubs and the absence of looking to situate a big new store 0.7 miles from the restaurants were all mentioned, but over the last few outskirts of Holmfirth and has put in a planning application years all those factors have begun to point in the right to do so. Many people are very concerned about that direction for a lively night-time economy in Stroud. I and there was a protest by traders in Holmfirth over the pay tribute to people who think in those terms. weekend when they boarded up their shops to show Another aspect of the question that has come across what the place could look like if Tesco arrives. There are quite forcefully in the debate, and rightly so, is the fact also big transport issues to consider. However, there that we are not just talking about shops, although they could be positives if Tesco comes, such as 175 jobs and are very important. We are talking about, for example, greater accessibility to goods at a reasonable price. At the cultural life of a high street. In Stroud, Dursley and the moment, a lot of people go to superstores on the Nailsworth, farmers markets generate a lot of business other side of Huddersfield. and activity.They have made an impact in my constituency There are big concerns about having an out-of-town in delivering extra verve in high street life. It is valuable supermarket, but on the other hand, as Mary Portas for such activities not just to be started but to be seen to noted in her review, local shops can be successful if they thrive. It is vital that we think beyond the normal specialise in specialism, experience and service. That is expectations of people who think about high streets shown particularly well on a very successful high street and go into new areas and new opportunities. Farmers in Lindley in the north of my constituency, which is a markets definitely fall within that category. lovely little community and is very busy because the big I also want to talk about unused houses and flats hospital, Huddersfield royal infirmary, is in that area. I above shops in our high streets—an important matter would like to name some of the different types of in terms of our attitudes to housing. If we can get business on a little street called Lidget street which people to participate in and live in their community, really demonstrate Mary Portas’s point about service, that is great, and we should consider how we can experience and specialism. We have Concepts Beauty encourage shop owners and owners of general commercial and the Forget Me Not Trust children’s hospice charity properties on our high streets to make better use of the shop, which is a local charity shop to which people feel properties, and the floors above the shops that we all very close emotionally. We have Garry Butler’s top walk past. If all of a community—shop owners, shoppers, quality butchers, Hartley’s confectioners, Branch One residents, café and pub owners and so on—is part of a food emporium, the Bubble and Squeak deli, Lindley multi-dimensional high street, we can start to get a Fine Wines, Pure Occasions of Lindley, the Hair Room, strong nucleus of useful influence that can work towards Soor’s of Lindley, the Saddle pub, the Caspian gallery, developing the high street. Wagstaff’s Shoes and Eric’s restaurant and bar, which I welcome the report we have discussed tonight, and uses local produce. There is also a pharmacy, the local the Government’s enthusiasm for promoting high street library, Sugarcraft Creations’ wonderful sugar craft to activity. I salute the very strong work in my constituency, go on the top of cakes, Cosy Kitchens, an opticians, the in the towns I have mentioned and in others, which Dress for Less discount store, Lindley Spice, Carl Livesey’s demonstrates that some really good results can be produced butchers, the Children’s Book Shop, Lindley’s café and in high street and town activity. deli, and the Number 10 bar and kitchen—how appropriate is that? That is a fantastic range of local shops that are locally owned and offer that kind of service, experience 9.9 pm and specialism. Jason McCartney (Colne Valley) (Con): I particularly Linked to that area is a wonderful community spirit relish the opportunity to speak in this debate because it because people organise a superb Lindley carnival in really is the hot topic in my constituency at the moment, the summer and there is the Lindley Christmas market 711 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 712 Streets Streets in the first of week of December when the thoroughfare work with the grain of local opinion. It was not that is closed, everyone comes out on to the street and all the people did not want a Tesco; they just did not want shops are open, offering mulled wine and mince pies. another Tesco in an area where the brand was already at Those local shops really engage with the local community saturation point. and are something to behold. There is also two hours-worth There are also national chains of bars, restaurants of free parking—something that has been mentioned and cafes. They use their lawyers and large planning very much in this debate—in a major car park at the departments to circumvent local authority planning end of the street. People can also park up and down the decisions. In my constituency, we have an example street in bays and quickly pop into one of those wonderful involving Costa Coffee—a brand owned by Whitbread, local shops to make quick purchases. That is exactly the brewers—which has opened three outlets in Bristol; what a community needs. High streets can be successful in Gloucester road in my constituency, in Clifton Down if they follow that kind of model and I think that all and in Westbury village in the neighbouring constituency hon. Members, including myself, need to encourage our of Bristol North West. The company has flouted the constituents, ourselves and our families to shop locally decisions of Bristol city council; Costa’s managing director and support these wonderful local shops. wrote to me to say that Costa was “re-energising and revitalising” high streets and 9.14 pm “regularly complements independent retailers…to offer a wider Stephen Williams (Bristol West) (LD): The whole range of choice.” debate so far has reminded me of when I was waiting to That sort of banality infuriates local residents when make my maiden speech, listening to potted descriptions they think they cannot work with the system to get what of every town and city in the country, learning a lot they want. We certainly need to reform the planning about geography as well as politics. I shall now do system to combat uniformity and promote diversity. roughly the same thing, talking from a city perspective about my Bristol West constituency, which covers the Chris Skidmore (Kingswood) (Con): As a fellow Bristol whole city centre and the shopping centres of Broadmead MP, I entirely agree with the hon. Gentleman and I and Cabot Circus in the regional capital of the south-west hope we might work together to share our experiences of England. The constituency is also a patchwork of of local high streets. Kingswood high street is a valuable distinct neighbourhood shopping centres and high streets, part of my constituency. Does he agree that if a planning bookended by Clifton village and Stapleton road, with application for a major store is rejected, there should be the unique areas of Park street, Whiteladies road and a breathing space and the large store should not be Gloucester road running through the middle. Gloucester allowed to re-enter the system straight away? road may not be the oldest high street in England but it is certainly the longest. It has been argued in many Stephen Williams: Yes. I thank the hon. Gentleman—an media outlets that it is the greatest high street in England, MP for Greater Bristol—for that intervention. with 2 miles of independent shops. The other flaw in the planning system is that when In the 1990s, as you will be aware, Madam Deputy permission is refused by a committee of local councillors, Speaker, as a fellow Bristol Member, our city centre the applicant goes ahead and opens the business because faced great challenges from out of town, but it has they know that an appeal will take a long time. That is a fought back. Bristol city council worked in partnership loophole that Costa has certainly exploited and it needs with the private sector and we have a new shopping to be blocked. We need to reform the planning process, centre, but more important, thousands of people now but we must also reform local government finance. live in the heart of the city of Bristol. I do not think it has been mentioned in the debate that we need more The use classes have been mentioned many times. residents in town and city centres. I certainly endorse Surely, it is common sense that the A1 retail use class the recommendations in the Portas report for town cannot apply equally to Tesco, Sainsbury’s and all the centre teams and for a presumption in favour of town other retail multiples and to Mrs Smith’s corner shop; and city centres in the planning regime. none the less, that is how our planning system works. High streets, whether in cities or towns, certainly face What we need is to let go so that we have more multiple challenges; indeed, as has been said, they are at localism, so that local councils, whether Bristol or South crisis point. Rationing of parking spaces has been referred Gloucestershire, are sufficiently granular at the local to. Control of crime is another issue, as is the switch to level to micro-manage what they want in their high online retailing. Every time I make my traditional Christmas streets. If they do not want any more supermarkets or visit to the Montpelier Royal Mail sorting centre, I am chains, they should be able to say so emphatically, and struck by the sheer number of Amazon parcels of the there should be no ambiguity in the classes of use to books and DVDs my constituents are buying. allow the large companies to drive a coach and horses The other major threat to all our high streets and through local opinion and local democratic decision locally owned businesses comes from the large national making. Local communities could then promote the chains and multiples. Supermarkets have been mentioned shops that they want, and democratically elected councillors many times during the debate so I shall not say too could block the sharp practices of the large multiples. much more about them, but I am probably the only Finally, finance has been mentioned a couple of Member in the Chamber who has experienced a riot in times. The uniform business rate needs to be reformed his constituency caused by the opening of a branch of so that local councils can offer waivers to businesses Tesco. It took place over the Easter and royal wedding that they wish to attract to an area. Gloucester road has bank holidays in April last year. I certainly do not shops with most uses, but it does not have a book shop, condone the antics of those constituents, but I very so perhaps a rate incentive would attract a book retailer much share their frustration. Large businesses do not to the area. Business improvement districts have made a 713 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 714 Streets Streets [Stephen Williams] careful, the whole country will be run by one rampant supermarket, and we will end up with all these covered huge improvement to Bristol city centre, but I would shopping centres. argue that any shopping centre would benefit from a Having represented two constituencies, I am in a BID in which landlords are incentivised to take part as good position to judge what happens. Given the lead well. That is a key recommendation of the Portas report, that my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton has which I thoroughly enjoyed reading, and which I have taken today, I am sure the Opposition spokesman and thoroughly enjoyed endorsing in this debate. our excellent Minister who will respond to the debate will have all the solutions. I hope we will not just park the issue and leave it at that one report. Each Member 9.20 pm of Parliament who has local stores should lead by Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con): I congratulate example and shop locally. We must remember that if we my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton (Mr Jones) do not use it, we lose it. on introducing this debate. I have decided to make a speech because, having heard many colleagues wax lyrical 9.25 pm about their shopping centres, I have to tell the House Bob Stewart (Beckenham) (Con): We have changed quite firmly that the finest shopping centre in the country the way we shop. Fifty years ago mothers in Beckenham is in my constituency of Southend West at Leigh-on-Sea. and other towns in my constituency went to the shops There have been many, many reports before, and all daily to get the food that they needed for their families. hon. Members know what the problems are: it is the Many more people lived in town centres. Today mothers solutions that challenge us. This morning, my hon. and fathers normally get their week’s food at one time. Friend the Member for Rugby (Mark Pawsey) and I Supermarkets provide the family living essentials. They were at the Olympic stadium. Indeed, we both ran do so at the lowest price possible and they are open all round the stadium and did the 100 metres in under nine hours. Internet shopping offers unbeatable value. seconds, so Usain Bolt should be worried. We then went High streets cannot compete with that, so all our to Westfield shopping centre. Having been born in the high streets must think about how they change. I am area, I found it all very impressive, and we were told slightly disappointed that the Mayor of London’s outer that Stratford has a better Westfield than west London. London fund has not given additional funding to my I looked around for elderly people, and thought, “Where constituency, but I am very pleased that Bromley has do they go?” been given another £5 million to help redevelop its town When I was Member of Parliament for Basildon, we centre, as it is the major shopping centre that many of had the biggest covered shopping centre in the country. my constituents use weekly. Beckenham high street I have enough enemies without naming a particular caters for local people from Copers Cope, Kelsey and supermarket, but in Basildon, we started off with one Eden Park, Shortlands and Clockhouse. Our high streets giant store. We ended up with another giant store, and a must be designed with that in mind. third one at the other end of the town. I had a terrible I shall end by making a few points, many of which row with the then chairman of that supermarket, because have been made earlier. We need to make town centres not only did it sell groceries but white goods, and it then places where people want to go, not just to shop, but to decided to have a post office in-store: it was completely socialise and simply be there. I agree that parking and out of control. parking charges are a problem that needs to be addressed, We were told that we had the so-called biggest covered but in my constituency people sometimes drive 30 minutes shopping centre in the country, but we were then told to Bluewater because of the free parking there, and it that Gateshead had the biggest covered shopping centre. costs them a tenner in petrol. Then the honour went to Lakeside, then Bluewater. It Pedestrianisation is a two-edged weapon. I like the goes on and on and on. As the former chairman of the idea of shared space for vehicles and people together, small shops group, I want to make a plea for small and I want buses to go down Beckenham, West Wickham shops and for older people. I worry where older people, and Hayes high streets, bringing people in and out of who do not shop online at Amazon and so on, are going the town centres. I like the idea of calming traffic but to shop. They cannot go round the supermarket; they not stopping it, but pedestrianised town centres and cannot go to the big covered shopping centres. In Leigh- high streets can be lonely and dangerous places at night. on-Sea, we have an absolutely brilliant range of small Cars passing sometimes help to mitigate the threat. shops. Indeed, my predecessor, Paul Channon, used to Beckenham, West Wickham and Hayes are ideal places take Princess Margaret to shop in the local shops, for niche shopping. Everyone wants a mixed retail which are still there today. It is a wonderful village experience but now much of what we shop for is in atmosphere. supermarkets. I want to see reduced business rates and It is all very well and good Members coming to the rents, if possible. These will help small businesses make House saying how marvellous small shops are, but this a decent offering. I am glad that the Government are is the toughest time that I have ever known for businesses, considering keeping back a portion of business rates for let alone small shops. If we do not use them, we will lose the local community. them. We must all be realistic: in this day and age, it is As a society we must have decent and vibrant town down to price. For older people, it is great that we still centres. They are under threat and of course we are have these little shops, where the shop owner has the trying to do something about that. I am glad that we time to swap stories and listen to people talk about their have had the opportunity to debate this matter today aches and pains and the rest of it. I worry that with the and I thank my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton increasing Americanisation of the UK, if we are not (Mr Jones) for securing an important debate. Finally, I 715 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 716 Streets Streets must place on record a personal lack of interest. As There has been much consensus throughout the hon. Members might expect, shopping does not float Chamber, but I am perhaps going to break it for a few my boat very much. In fact, I detest it. moments, because, although I acknowledge that many of our high streets have struggled for several years, there is no doubt in my mind that the actions of this 9.30 pm Government are making things much worse, particularly in disadvantaged areas. The downturn has hit our high Roberta Blackman-Woods (City of Durham) (Lab): I streets hard, and, although thousands of jobs have begin by congratulating the hon. Member for Nuneaton already been lost in the retail sector, many more are at (Mr Jones) and the Backbench Business Committee on risk. We heard yesterday of yet more job losses in the securing the debate. I must say that I am in completely sector throughout the country, and every day and every the opposite category to the hon. Member for Beckenham week more retailers seem to be going out of business. (Bob Stewart), because I am an avid shopper, which is Let us be clear about how serious the situation is. The why I am particularly interested in the debate. Unfortunately, latest shop vacancy report, compiled by the Local Data I seem to have passed the shopping gene on to my Company, found that town centre vacancy rates in daughter, who occasionally seems to think that she is Great Britain stand at 14.3%. personally responsible for keeping some of the retail sector in Durham afloat—something I am sure many Derek Twigg: My constituent Liz Howard, of the parents recognise. Curiosity Bookshop in Runcorn, has raised several The huge number of hon. Members who took part in issues with me, not least those of unfair competition the debate—54 in total—shows that the topic is relevant with supermarkets and of parking, but one issue in to many constituencies. I will not be able to mention particular is derelict and unused buildings—some that every contribution, as just listing the Members’ have to be knocked down and others that are still constituencies would probably use up most of my time, unused. That is an area of real concern, so I hope that but I will comment on some of the points that were the Government will act upon it to improve the situation. made. I think that all hon. Members who spoke, right across the Chamber, were tremendous advocates for Roberta Blackman-Woods: My hon. Friend makes a their town centres and high streets, whether they were good point, and I will turn to empty shops in a moment. celebrating their successes, particularly in these difficult Void rates are another real issue, especially in secondary times, or arguing strongly that the challenges they face shopping areas, but the most recent wave of closures need to be addressed. and the downsizing and retrenching of the retail sector are clearly causing a problem even in primary shopping A few issues stood out in particular. Almost all areas. Members who spoke mentioned parking and the need for a level playing field with out-of-town developments. There is a set of challenges for the high street, and That was sometimes coupled with a concern that out-of- that is not to mention the difficulties caused by the rise town shopping centres had perhaps expanded too much in internet shopping and by out-of-town centres. in recent times, with an adverse effect on town centres, Rory Stewart: Does the shadow Minister acknowledge, although I think that there was more debate about that. however, that internet shopping can be immensely beneficial There was also some unanimity on the need to amend to small, high-street shops? For example, in our constituency, use class orders, particularly so that there is more the John Norris fishing supplies shop makes £12 million flexibility on change of use. A number of hon. Members of sales over the internet but only £1 million through were keen to see more community involvement in shaping the door—and that allows it to keep going. town centres and high streets, particularly in order to get greater diversity and to have an offer that goes Roberta Blackman-Woods: I do accept that point, beyond retail and includes leisure and social facilities. which my hon. Friend the Member for Stockport (Ann Many Members celebrated the advantages of markets, Coffey) made very well earlier. Nevertheless, the internet including indoor markets, and wanted them to increase is, I think, an additional challenge for high streets and in a number of towns and cities. town centres. Several Members mentioned the need for more flexibility I say all that not to talk down our high streets, in rents and rent setting and business rates. In particular, however, because, as several hon. Members have said, they stressed the need to give local authorities more of a the town centre or high street in their constituency is say in the level of business rate that should be applied weathering the economic storm. I say it to demonstrate and even to give a business rate holiday if that seems the extent of the problem, because not all town centres appropriate, as part of a package of measures, for are thriving and we have to be clear about the action regenerating particular areas. We know that changes to that needs to be taken. the business rate regime are coming, and the Minister In government, we had a strong “town centre first” might comment on that when he sums up. policy, but even with that policy there was recognition There was a great deal of consensus about the fact that more needed to be done to revitalise high streets, so that the Portas review is a very good thing and that the there is a particular challenge for this Government. Government need to respond to it more quickly. I They need to do more to bolster consumer confidence, congratulate the Government on commissioning the as their austerity programme—cutting too far and too Portas review and the Department for Business, Innovation fast—coupled with their VAT hike last January has and Skills report on understanding high street performance, squeezed incomes, reduced consumer confidence and carried out by Genecon, which went alongside it and led to further job losses on the high street. In a YouGov provided us all with a lot of valuable information for poll last year, four fifths of retailers said that the VAT our contributions to the debate. increase would undermine sales. 717 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 718 Streets Streets [Roberta Blackman-Woods] specifically in the Portas review and it needs serious consideration. We also think that her suggestion of an The Government have so far also ignored the empty shop management order could be pursued. recommendations for a stronger “town centre first” We are keen to see the town teams that Mary Portas policy, and they need to think about amending the draft recommends. We hope that they are active and vibrant national planning policy framework to reintroduce the local partnerships that work closely with business sequential tests for town centres, because we really need improvement districts. They should also work closely that to encourage more town centre development. with the local community to make neighbourhood planning a reality. It is important that neighbourhood plans Henry Smith (Crawley) (Con): Would the hon. Lady cover town centres and that every effort is made to not acknowledge that the recently passed Localism involve local people in drawing them up. A number of Act 2011 gives real power to local communities and hon. Members have made the point that if life is to be councils, such as Crawley borough council, to make put back into town centres, particularly those that are town centre policies a priority where they think it is failing, the involvement of the local community in important? shaping them is really important. I finish by saying that in addition to following through Roberta Blackman-Woods: That is not the case if with the Portas recommendations, we want the Government offices are taken out. Of course we all want more to pay some attention to our four-point plan to save our localism, but the Government also have to attend to high streets—cutting VAT, giving local people the power their economic policies, which are damaging our high to put the heart back into the high street, repeating streets and town centres. Labour’s empty shops initiative and promoting a fair There are other issues that the Government need to playing field for our high streets. address, such as business rates, the need for local flexibility to tackle unemployment, the lack of credit for small businesses and whether property values are artificially 9.44 pm inflated in some areas. The big challenge is to respond The Minister for Housing and Local Government (Grant positively and quickly to the Portas review. We welcome Shapps): I join virtually every colleague who has spoken the review, not least because it champions high streets in congratulating my hon. Friend the Member for Nuneaton and town centres as community hubs where social, (Mr Jones) on securing the debate—a truly inspired leisure and retail activities can take place. People are move—and the Backbench Business Committee on passionate about their town centres and want them to ensuring that it happened. thrive. I have had the pleasure of sitting through most of the I hope that we hear from the Minister how he will debate and hearing the many by and large excellent strengthen the “town centre first” policy. He will know contributions from hon. Members on both sides of the that a number of large retailers, including the John House. I have enjoyed it tremendously in the run-up to Lewis Partnership, have said that the sequential test as the Government’s response to the Portas review. Of it stands simply is not strong enough. course, the debate has very much been spurred by the I am pleased that the Portas review touched on use Mary Portas report, which was undertaken after the class orders, which have been raised by many Members. Prime Minister personally asked her to go out, look at I pay tribute to my right hon. and learned Friend the what was happening in our town centres and high Member for Camberwell and Peckham (Ms Harman) streets and make a series of proposals to make things for campaigning on this issue, in particular for a separate better. There are 28 proposals in all, many of them category for betting shops. I wish my right hon. Friend quite detailed and many of which Members have touched the Member for Lewisham, Deptford (Dame Joan on. Ruddock) well with her private Member’s Bill, which is It has been fascinating to weigh up Members’ trying to put a change in use class orders into legislation representations. As one Member suggested, it has been as quickly as possible. We must be careful to ensure that like an afternoon and evening of sitting through maiden if use class orders are changed, they are accompanied speeches, because every Member mentioned every town by safeguards, so that there is not abuse and misuse of and village in their constituency. It made the debate the new guidance. For example, local communities do much more enjoyable. not want a change in use class orders that makes it easier for fast food outlets to be set up. I should, as everyone else seems to have done, declare an interest—one Member declared a disinterest—by Empty shops are a particular issue. We urge the saying that 21 years ago last month, I started my own Government to follow through with the recommendations retail shop, a print business, so I have had some experience of the Portas review, many of which reflect the policies in retail and found out how tough it can be on the high that Labour championed and carried out in government. street. Among the many significant problems that retailers We introduced the empty shops initiative, which enabled have to overcome can be intransigence from local councils to pursue innovative uses for empty shops and authorities, which, it has to be said, have until now had reinvigorate high streets. For example, vacant units almost no interest in business in their area, and particularly could be used for cultural, community or learning services, in the retail sector. Why? Well, retail businesses do not rather than be left empty. We hope that the Government vote, and the local authority does not get to keep their will introduce such a policy as soon as possible. money. One of the most important reforms, therefore, It is important that we spend a bit of time thinking which Mary Portas mentions in the report, must be the about how we redevelop high streets. We need to give localisation of business rates. I am delighted that that councils more tools to do that. We want a more proactive legislation is now going through the House. Speaking as use of compulsory purchase orders. That is mentioned that small shop owner, I know that it will be of considerable 719 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 Future of Town Centres and High 720 Streets Streets help to many people. Alongside that, of course, local planning guidance, which forced up parking charges in authorities will have the ability to provide a discount on the past; changing the planning rules to allow councils business rates if they choose to. The legislation will to provide more parking spaces; and updating the licensing make that all the more easy. laws to give councils more power to tackle antisocial As I am speaking in this debate, it would be remiss of behaviour and, of course, the problems that came in me not to mention that the wonderful town of Hatfield with the 24-hour drinking laws. suffers greatly from the same problems that many Members I said that I would respond on the “town centre first” have described. It was a new town, and so bright was its policy. We have focused on retail development in town future when it was set up. Unfortunately, partly because centres. The national planning policy framework will be of the situation that has been mentioned—the road and released by the spring. The hon. Member for City of the cars were taken out of the town centre, and the life Durham (Roberta Blackman-Woods) was quite wrong was sucked out of it—it has struggled to have a renaissance. to say that it does not put town centres first, because it As the Minister taking the response to the Portas review absolutely does. It is very clearly written, so I suggest forward, I can assure right hon. and hon. Members that she looks at the text again. We believe that town centres I have personal experience of a failing town centre that should be considered very strongly when making decisions. needs to be rescued. That is why I take many of the To reinforce that, the 2011 Act and the move towards measures suggested in the review so much to heart. giving local people the ability to make decisions, which Car parking was the No. 1 concern mentioned by was mentioned by more than one of my hon. Friends, Members in the 54 contributions. It is absolutely right, mean that it will be much easier in future for local areas and in fact quite obvious, to say that in today’s society, to prioritise in the way that they would wish to ensure when people either do not need to get into their car at that developments happen in the right way. all because they can simply click on something with a mouse to buy it or, if the option is available, as it now is Duncan Hames: My right hon. Friend speaks with in most parts of the country, drive to a shopping mall or enthusiasm about the policies that the Government are shopping centre, an uncompetitive high street with high introducing, but will he touch on the question I raised parking charges will always make a retail district suffer. on the progress they are making to get rid of the It is absolutely essential, even in these incredibly tough regional spatial strategies and the old planning policies, times, for local authorities to appreciate that hammering which were forced on local areas by the previous the motorist visiting the local shops will not be the Government? solution to the area’s problems, and certainly not to those of retailers. Everything comes back to the fact Grant Shapps: My hon. Friend is right. Nothing did that in future, under the localisation of business rates, more damage to local areas than those hated regional for the first time it will matter to local councillors that spatial strategies. As everyone knows, my right hon. Friend businesses survive and thrive, because the local business the Secretary of State has already written to local rates will be retained. authority leaders and the Planning Inspectorate confirming The second most-mentioned item in the debate was that we will abolish those regional planning strategies. the Mary Portas concept of town teams. That is the idea That letter was immediately material consideration, but that if people want to promote their town, they need to we now intend to lay the orders from the 2011 Act, get together. That involves not just the usual suspects—the which will mean that they will finally be gone. I can town centre manager and perhaps an interested local therefore tell my hon. Friend that policies and proposals councillor—but everyone, from the retailers and landlords from the once-emerging regional spatial strategies should to the council, and most notably Members of Parliament, carry very little weight indeed in the minds of anybody forming a town team and leading the debate. If I am involved in our planning system today. enormously enthused about one thing in the debate, it is that so many Members—it must be said that I am Meg Hillier: I hope the Minister gets to the betting referring mostly to Government Members, who have shops issue, which is not a party political one—I lobbied largely filled the House—spoke with enormous passion the previous Labour Government on it. Will he answer and made it clear that they intend to lead the debate in the question asked in the debate? Will the Government their local areas. That will do an awful lot of good. give fair wind this Friday to the private Member’s Bill Members, and particularly the shadow Minister, promoted by my right hon. Friend the Member for mentioned the “town centre first” policy. Government Lewisham, Deptford (Dame Joan Ruddock), which would Members would be far more tempted to take lectures on radically change our high streets? different solutions for the town centre—or whatever this week’s soundbite is from Her Majesty’s Opposition—if Grant Shapps: There were many detailed Opposition Members actually attended the debate. There recommendations in the report, and I am looking with were significant periods when but one person—the shadow great interest at the one on betting shops. I sense the Secretary of State—sat on the Opposition Benches. I impatience that has been expressed today for a response felt so sorry for him—he seemed so lonely—that I was to Mary Portas’s recommendations, and I can assure tempted to join him. People in the country and retailers hon. Members that they will not have to wait terribly would take Opposition Members’ comments all the long to find out what our response will be. We have more seriously if they were expressed in this House. promised to deliver it by the spring, and we absolutely Mary Portas has made many different recommendations intend to do so; the hon. Lady will not have to wait very and the Government have made a number of significant long at all—and I can confirm that I mean spring 2012. moves, including, for example, doubling the small business We intend to provide a very energetic response to the rate relief for two and half years to help small businesses Portas review. The Government like what she has said, through the Localism Act 2011; scrapping Whitehall and we have already started to implement a number of 721 Future of Town Centres and High 17 JANUARY 2012 722 Streets [Grant Shapps] in their constituencies in the months to come just as passionately as they have done in the Chamber today. her recommendations. I will be coming back to give greater detail on the other items that we have not so far 9.58 pm covered, but we have a generally positive attitude towards Mr Marcus Jones: When I originally thought about the report. It is also true to say, however, that in order applying to the Backbench Business Committee to hold for her recommendations to work, it would not be this debate, I considered applying for a three-hour sufficient for us simply to put in place all 28 of them. debate. However, my hon. Friend the Member for Kettering Hon. Members and others should not expect a universal (Mr Hollobone) persuaded me to request a six-hour recovery in the high street simply as a result of such debate instead. I was persuaded, but I was concerned action. Retail is much more complex than that, and we that we might not be able to fill up the time. I must have need to get to the heart of the reasons that it has underestimated the concern and support of hon. Members suffered so badly. for their town centres. It has been wonderful to hear Hon. Members mentioned the fact that there are two some 50 colleagues make such profound and important essential factors. The first is the growth of the internet, contributions about their town centres. For once, I am as recognised by Mary Portas. The second is the growth glad to have been proved wrong. I am pleased that I of the out-of-town shopping stores; again, the report managed to secure a full-day debate. recognises that factor. Both those factors are here to I must admit—this has been mentioned by several stay, no matter what we do. No one can legislate to get hon. colleagues—that I enjoyed travelling the length rid of the internet, or to do away with the out-of-town and breadth of the country with them, hearing the stores. The advantages of the existing high streets therefore trials, tribulations and triumphs of hon. Members and need to be played up. The first is the ability of people their constituencies, town centres and high streets. Among shopping in the high street to touch and feel products all the comments, however, what really struck me was does not exist when they are shopping online, although the passion of many hon. colleagues for their town they could still do that in an out-of-town store. centres. It is important now that we put that passion into meaningful action. I know that my right hon. The second advantage is perhaps more significant. It Friend the Minister listened intently to much of the is the ability to meet, communicate and enjoy a coffee debate, as did his colleagues, and I am convinced that he with friends, and to go to other facilities that are based will— in the same location. Such facilities could include a local library or, as my hon. Friend the Member for 10 pm Nuneaton said, a theatre. The high street provides a sense of community and well-being that I will wager Motion lapsed (Standing Order No. 9(3)). could never be provided by the out-of-town stores. They simply do not provide that sense of community and Business without Debate belonging that has been so vividly described by Members across the House today. I have visited many of their DELEGATED LEGISLATION constituencies in my role as Housing Minister, and I Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing look forward to visiting many of them again. We have Order No. 118(6)). been given a wonderful tour of the country today, and we look forward to seeing those high streets revived. IMMIGRATION The one pledge that will go out from the Government is That the draft Immigration (Biometric Registration) (Amendment) that, in addition to implementing as much of the Mary Regulations 2012, which were laid before this House on 6 December, Portas review as possible, we will ask Members from be approved.—(Greg Hands.) across the House to lead the debate and the renaissance Question agreed to. 723 17 JANUARY 2012 Midwife and Maternity Services 724

Midwife and Maternity Services I know that the Royal College of Midwives, for its part, is realistic about the financial challenges facing Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House the NHS. The “State of Maternity Services” report do now adjourn.—(Greg Hands.) recommends, for example, providing more midwife-led units and appropriately integrating maternity support 10 pm workers as two ways to make better use of the limited Henry Smith (Crawley) (Con): Thank you, Mr Speaker, financial resources available. The report also recommends for the opportunity to hold this debate on midwife and at least maintaining, and in some regions increasing, the maternity services. It is particularly important because, number of student midwives to ensure that more midwives as I speak, there is a baby boom in the UK. Last year, a are available to meet future needs. baby was born every 40 seconds—the highest number in Maternity services in England are approaching a 20 years—and in certain areas of the country maternity critical point. London, along with many parts of the units are under considerable pressure and midwives are south and east, is particularly overstretched, with some working harder than ever. England has seen a 22% increase maternity units currently having a midwife vacancy rate in the number of births, compared to Wales at 17%, of over 20%. Maternity services in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland at 15%, and Scotland at 12%. The Northern Ireland are in better shape. According to the number of live births in England in 2010—the latest Royal College of Midwives, an average ratio of one year for which figures are available—was well over two midwife to 28 births is a safe level. At the moment the thirds of a million, representing an increase of 22% figures for the UK are as follows: in England there is since 2001. one midwife for every 33 births, in Wales there is one for The Royal College of Midwives recently published its every 30 births, in Northern Ireland one for every “State of Maternity Services” report, and I was pleased 28 births, and in Scotland one for every 26 births. There to be at its launch in Westminster Hall. The report are clear variations in care across the UK that need to looks at a number of indicators of the pressures on be addressed. It is clear that with adequate midwife maternity care and the resources available to cope, and numbers to match the birth rate, mothers and babies for the first time it does so for all four nations of the receive a higher standard of care. Union. The report finds that a significant increase in the number of births in each of the UK’s constituent The situation in England is a concern, but it is parts and a trend towards older mothers are increasing certainly not hopeless. The midwifery shortage can be the pressures on maternity services significantly. The solved; it is simply a matter of policy will and using extra work load placed on midwives by more older resources innovatively. For example, giving expectant women giving birth has been exacerbated by an increased mothers real choice when deciding where to give birth complexity in their work load. could alleviate the shortage problem in England. In essence, a mother has three main choices when choosing The number of births to women aged 40 or over rose the location of birth: a midwife-led unit, a consultant-led by more than 70% between 2001 and 2010—a level not unit or at home. Most women choose a local hospital, seen since 1948. In England that has led to a substantial usually for convenience and because of the perception deficit in the work force needed to provide a safe level of of safety and security. Encouraging more births at care to women and their babies. Furthermore, the existing midwife-led units, however, would help with NHS work midwifery work force in England is ageing. We can force planning. Births at home or in midwife-led units therefore anticipate an even greater strain on services require fewer interventions and are less demanding on over the next 15 years, if the situation is not properly midwife time. According to calculations, for every 10,000 addressed. One region of England actually cut midwife births moved from a consultant-led to a midwife-led numbers between 2001 and 2010. Between those years, unit or to the home, the required midwifery work force the north-west experienced a 19% increase in the number would be reduced by the equivalent of 71 full-time of live births, but a reduced number of full-time equivalent midwives. midwives. The only way to get large numbers of new midwives There are significant variations in home birth take-up, into the profession is through training student midwives, which suggests that the message of choice is not getting yet the record on student midwife numbers is patchy. In through to all mothers. For example, in Somerset 11.4% the 2005-06 academic year, for example, there was even of births are at home. At the other end of the scale, a 16% cut in student midwife numbers, and it took five however, in Wansbeck, just 0.1% of births are at home. years for those numbers to climb back up to their By encouraging real choice we could enable mothers 2004-05 level. With an ageing profession, a substantial across the country to receive higher levels of care during and consistent rise in student midwife numbers is the and after their pregnancy. only way of rectifying the enduring problem that there are too few midwives working in the NHS in England. Choice of location of birth—that is, of course, a specific coalition policy set out in the NHS White I very much welcome the increased number of midwives Paper—is far too important to be denied to mothers, and trainee midwives introduced by the Government. particularly when it is readily available in other parts of That is fundamental. I also very much welcome the the country. According to the Office for National Statistics increase in NHS funding over each and every year of the percentage of home births decreased to 2.5% in this Parliament, including the greater investment in 2010 compared with 2.7% the previous year. maternity care as part of the solution. However, the financial limits resulting from the historically high debts Research by Oxford University’s national perinatal that the previous Administration left us mean that epidemiology unit has given further weight to the evidence innovative ways to address the work force shortages that suggests women at a low risk of complications need to be considered. should be given full and frank options when it comes to 725 Midwife and Maternity Services17 JANUARY 2012 Midwife and Maternity Services 726

[Henry Smith] 10.13 pm The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health choosing where to give birth. The general secretary of (Anne Milton): Let me begin by not only congratulating the Royal College of Midwives, Professor Cathy Warwick, my hon. Friend the Member for Crawley (Henry Smith) welcomed the research, saying: on securing the debate, but thanking him for raising the “This ground-breaking research makes a very important high-profile issue of midwife and maternity services. contribution to the evidence base for women and health professionals Those services, and the midwives who work in them, are about the safety of childbirth planned in different settings for women at a low risk of complications. The RCM hopes that its extremely important to women, and the provision of findings will be widely used and will help health professionals high-quality maternity care is non-negotiable for a support women to make informed choices about their options Government and a health service. I want to outline when considering where to give birth. It should also influence the some of the measures that we are taking to improve the planning of high-quality maternity services across the UK.” quality of that care, but let me first pay my own tribute Maternity support workers who have been adequately to the midwives throughout the country who do such a trained, and are appropriately supervised and suitably fantastic job. deployed, can also provide a significant reduction of I hope that you will allow me a brief personal comment, the pressure on midwife time. Mr Speaker. My four children were delivered in four different hospitals, but in each of those instances the midwife had a profound impact on the experience, and Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP): I thank the hon. a profound impact on the start that we made with a new Gentleman for bringing this matter to the House. He little family member. I know that it will have been the will be aware that some 70% of midwives oversee the same for many other families. The importance of midwives birth of a child without a doctor’s support. He has not and maternity services cannot be overestimated. mentioned that it can cost up to £45,000 to train a midwife. Some of our midwives, certainly some from We want to ensure that all pregnant women and new Northern Ireland, are going to Australia to gain experience. mothers receive the best care that it is possible to give. Does the hon. Gentleman see some way of retaining As my hon. Friend has said, and as other Members will midwives here in England, where, as he has said, there know only too well, maternity services face increasing seems to be a shortage? Might there not be some way challenges, and they will have to evolve to meet those for the regions to help each other in this respect? challenges. Over the last few years the birth rate has been rising, and the number of complex pregnancies is rising as well. There are also more high-risk births. Henry Smith: The hon. Gentleman has raised an Women are having babies when they are older, heart important point, which reinforces my view that there disease and obesity are increasing, and more mothers must be proper investment—the Government are already born outside the United Kingdom are giving birth here. making a good start—to ensure that student midwives learn how to help mothers give birth in a safe environment Impressive improvements have been made in many so that in most cases there are no complications. It services. The Care Quality Commission’s 2010 survey of should be emphasised that consultant-led maternity women’s experiences of maternity services found that units, although obviously vital, do not represent the full 92% of the women surveyed rated their care during picture, and that midwife-led units play an important pregnancy as excellent, very good or good, 94% rated role in increasing capacity. Midwife training in each their care during labour and birth as excellent, very part of the United Kingdom should be at least maintained, good or good, and 89% rated their care after birth as and in some regions increased. It is necessary to maintain excellent, very good or good. I hate statistics as they can the numbers who begin training to ensure that an seem meaningless and dry. It is important to congratulate adequate supply emerges at the other end, and I repeat the midwives who achieved those satisfaction figures, my commendation of the Government in that regard. but we should never forget that if 94% of women rated their care during birth as good or better, then 6% thought Let me end by referring to a matter related to my they did not get care that was good enough. That might constituency. Yesterday evening, during the Opposition not seem like a large proportion, but for the women day debate on the NHS, I mentioned that 10 years ago, concerned it is all that matters. in 2001, the maternity unit at Crawley hospital had regrettably been closed and moved nearly 10 miles up John Woodcock (Barrow and Furness) (Lab/Co-op): the road to East Surrey hospital. The move has created I have written to the Minister about the high-profile extra pressure at that hospital, and mothers and their problems at the Furness General maternity unit, triggered families have a more difficult journey to attend the unit by personal tragedies. What reassurances can she give at for check-ups and for births. on the future of that unit? More generally, what can she I am personally very grateful to East Surrey hospital. do to ensure that trusts with poor performing services It is where my children were born. My daughter Georgia in need of investment get the resources they need to was born there in 2003, my son Isaac was born there in deliver the first-class care people in my constituency 2006, and I feel that it is important also to mention that and the whole country rightly expect? my son Ethan was stillborn there in 2005. The care that the hospital provided for us was second to none. Anne Milton: I acknowledge that the hon. Gentleman Nevertheless, I think it important for mothers and has written to me about those issues, and I will come on families to have access to midwife-led services that are to discuss the measures we want to put in place to closer to their communities. It is certainly one of my ensure such past tragedies do not happen again. CQC hopes and desires that we may be able to establish a reviews have corroborated that there are problems. It midwife-led unit for Crawley—and, indeed, many more raises concerns about the safety and quality of maternity such units throughout the country. care in some areas. They are small but significant areas 727 Midwife and Maternity Services17 JANUARY 2012 Midwife and Maternity Services 728 of concern, and they must be of note to all involved in mother and the whole family, and decreasing the kind this area of care, especially as sometimes they involve of health inequalities that remain and are so persistent personal and family tragedies. in our society. All those things affect the outcome for Media and public attention on maternity services has those women and their babies, and the lasting impact of picked up pace over the last year. In particular, there is those things cannot be underestimated. anxiety about safety, capacity and changes to services. To back all that work up, from April a maternity In many respects, there is a “perfect storm”of circumstances, experience indicator will be introduced as part of the which makes things difficult. The issue is how well we NHS outcomes framework. That will be an important react, and how well services evolve and the work force part of identifying those gaps, as it will allow us to chart are equipped to react positively. a woman’s experience of care throughout antenatal We have put extending maternity choice as a key care, labour, delivery and post-natal care. It will also priority in the NHS operating framework. To help allow women and their partners to compare people’s communities achieve the desired outcomes in the most experience of care and makes choices about what they individually suitable ways, when services change, that want to do. It will be a valuable tool for midwives as change will be led by clinicians, midwives, and women—the well, as they will be able to see how they are doing in very people who run and use those services. relation to peer organisations. If they are doing well, this will drive them on to maintain their level and if To make sure the maternity infrastructure is being there are weaknesses, the experience indicator will show put to best use, I want there to be maternity provider specific areas to improve. As I say, this is not about the networks across the country, bringing together all the numbers; it is about getting the team mix right. In one different elements of maternity services, so there are no busy maternity unit that I visited, it was simply about gaps or hidden corners where mothers might get moving women around the labour facilities effectively substandard care. The incident that the hon. Member and efficiently. for Barrow and Furness (John Woodcock) raised involves precisely such hidden corners and gaps, and such incidents The Department of Health funded the “Birthplace in often result in a personal tragedy. Hospitals, GP surgeries, England” study, which was published in November last charities and community groups can all be linked up to year. It provided evidence about the expected outcomes share information, expertise and services. for women and their babies at “low risk”of complications. It was the first study of its type in this country, and the We also want more efficient use of skills in maternity findings will be a very important part in shaping maternity wards themselves. Obstetricians and gynaecologists, services, as well as other, linked parts of the NHS, such maternity support workers and, of course, midwives as ambulance services, so that every part of the system can come together and use their complementary skills is working together. It is an extremely important body and expertise to get the best results for mothers, with of evidence. In addition, we have asked the Centre for appropriately trained support workers providing valuable Workforce Intelligence to carry out an in-depth study of assistance, for example with breastfeeding, leaving midwives the nursing and maternity work force to determine to concentrate on the more specialist areas. This is not whether we have the right skill mix and professional just a numbers game; it is about getting the skills, teams, and whether they are able to deliver what is expertise and team mix exactly right. That will mean the needed. That will start this year and will inform the talents of all 27,000 midwives can be put to the best, future commissioning of training places. most efficient, use. That number shows that more midwives are working in the NHS now than ever before. The I hope that what I have said reassures my hon. Friend picture looks good for the future, too, because it is the Member for Crawley and other hon. Members in backed up by a record number of midwives entering the Chamber that we are continuing to improve maternity training. Subject to the number of forecast births, that services to women, whoever they are, wherever they live will be maintained. and whatever their circumstance; it is not good enough In July, we published “Supporting Families in the to give excellent care in one place and for services to be Foundation Years”.That report does not have the catchiest patchy elsewhere. We want consistently high-quality of titles, but it is important because it sets out how care and we will carry on with that process, making sure everyone who commissions, delivers or leads on something maternity services and midwives are fully prepared for can work to support parents and families. We cannot the demands of the modern maternity landscape. overstate the importance of the health and well-being I know that my hon. Friend has had specific issues to of women before, during and after pregnancy; it is a deal with in his local area and that they have been critical factor in giving children a good start and in ongoing for many years. I am also aware that the picture continuing that good health and well-being as they get is complex in terms of the circumstances of the women older. The latest data show that more than 90% of who end up using the local services. I hope that I have women who gave birth in the third quarter of 2010-11 reassured him, to some extent, that we have taken note saw a maternity health professional within 12 and a half of what is going on. There is no doubt that the birth of weeks. That is another dry statistic, but it is crucial. a baby is a very special moment and we want it to be a Early intervention and early contact with a maternity positive experience that shapes the future of not only health professional is crucial to the well-being of not the child and their mother, but the whole family. only the mother, but the child. Those meetings are Question put and agreed to. about more than just basic maternity care. Work will have been done on, and discussions will have been had about, things such as diet, exercise, smoking and drinking. 10.25 pm This is about improving the health of the baby, the House adjourned.

193WH 17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 194WH

death, to make the intolerable tolerable and to replace Westminster Hall hopelessness with hope and desperation with serenity. Too often, this essential part of health care is forgotten, Tuesday 17 January 2012 or simply shrouded by the more high-profile issue of assisted suicide. Reading media reports this year, one could be forgiven for thinking that that is the only [SIR ROGER GALE in the Chair] option for those suffering with terminal illness. Rather than legislating for an abrupt end to life, we need to find Care of the Dying better ways to help care for the dying. Motion made, and Question proposed, That the sitting The good practice of palliative care, which hon. be now adjourned.—(Michael Fabricant.) Members will no doubt illustrate this morning with constituency examples, makes the point that we in this 9.30 am country believe that life should be treated with dignity at every stage through to death. Some 50 years ago, Sir Roger Gale (in the Chair): Good morning, ladies Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern hospice and gentlemen. It will not have escaped your notice that movement, said: a considerable number of hon. Members are present, “You matter because you are you, and you matter to the last and a significant number have indicated in writing that moment of your life. We will do all we can not only to help you they wish to speak. Who gets called, other than in what die peacefully, but also to live until you die.” order, is beyond my control. We have an hour and a half What a refreshing contrast from what we have heard for this debate. The Front Benchers will traditionally recently from those advocating assisted suicide. Take want not less than 10 minutes each, so, if you do the the chilling words of Baroness Warnock, who said: math, as they say, it is up to you. If hon. Members “If you’re demented, you’re wasting people’s lives—your family’s confine their remarks to three minutes a head, we will lives—and you’re wasting the resources of the National Health get everybody in; that is, of course, other than the Service.” person who initiates the debate. If hon. Members take Suggesting that we have a “duty to die”, she said: an inordinate amount of time, I have no power to curtail the length for which they speak, other than “I think that’s the way the future will go, putting it rather to say that they may not get called again in the near brutally, you’d be licensing people to put others down.” future. Please try to exercise some control, and we will Well, that is not a future I want to be a part of, and I am endeavour to ensure that everybody gets heard. Those sure many of those present today agree. [HON.MEMBERS: with less experience might like to pay attention to the “Hear, hear!”] If we adopted the law of Oregon, the fact that it is sometimes possible to make a point in an trickle of people wanting to be killed in places such as intervention, rather than in a formal speech. Dignitas would become a flow—some estimate that more than 1,000 people a year would take that path. 9.31 am Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con): Does Mr David Burrowes (Enfield, Southgate) (Con): I my hon. Friend agree that one of the most worrying welcome the opportunity to talk about care of the things is that, if what he is talking about is introduced, dying. It is marked that so many hon. Members are many older people may feel that they are a burden and attending the debate on a subject that so many people in that they should bring an end to their lives? our constituencies would rather not talk about. Last year, a ComRes poll found that 67% of people Mr Burrowes: Indeed. We need to retain the present are scared of being told that they are dying. More law, which continues to provide a strong deterrent to the significantly, 83% are scared of dying in pain. As a exploitation of vulnerable people, while giving prosecutors nation, we need to get better at talking about dying, discretion in hard cases. Parliament has agreed, through death and bereavement, but Parliament can take a lead a detailed Select Committee inquiry and three votes in in breaking the cycle that can result in a lack of care. the past six years, to retain that protection. We have to With the public reluctant to discuss end-of-life care, recognise that it is easy, in the comfort of Parliament, to many professionals do not feel confident to deliver it. make fine-sounding points about terminal illness. I Services are not available to everyone who needs them. recognise that there are no easy answers for those who The aptly named Dying Matters coalition, across the feel they are not valued and who may feel that they may public, voluntary and private sector, should be commended be wasting resources or are a burden on their family or and supported when it has its annual awareness week in society. However, they are the very people who most May. need the protection of the law and the provision of Too often in health care, dying equals failure rather good-quality palliative care. How do we best safeguard than a normal process. This attitude ignores those who their dignity and autonomy? will not respond to treatment, but who can still be cared When we talk about dignity in the context of a health for significantly.Although death may be a tragic inevitability, debate, it can all too often be restricted to privacy and palliative and hospice care can ensure that the remainder physical care, but palliative care recognises a wider, of life is still worth living. We have an opportunity proper understanding of dignity. Good palliative care today to show the mark of a civilised society and care recognises the social, emotional, spiritual and psychological for the vulnerable and largely forgotten—the dying. needs that put an embrace around a terminally ill The growth of palliative care, not legalisation for patient, rather than the proposed arbitrary, so-called assisted suicide, should form the central debate about safeguards that put a straitjacket around patients and care for the dying. As a country, we must do all that we doctors. For example, the prognosis for a terminally ill can to allow the terminally ill to live a dignified life until patient is notoriously difficult to determine. The best 195WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 196WH

[Mr Burrowes] service providing care in people’s homes alongside an in-patient unit. In Enfield, the North London hospice safeguard is through specialist palliative care that helps community team are able to ensure that only 28% of a patient live with uncertainty. Take the case of a motor people cared for by the hospice died in hospital. neurone disease sufferer who wants to end his life but, According to the Minister, the Government should unknown to his GP, has developed fronto-temporal consider allocating national resources to continue to dementia and whose thinking has become distorted. promote and extend palliative care. I look forward Such a condition could only be noticeable if someone to hearing from the Minister about the progress in knew that patient very well before the illness. The best implementing the new per-patient funding system for safeguard to help the patient live with those fluctuating hospice and palliative care providers, which will provide moods and thoughts is specialist palliative care. The incentives to enhance services within community settings. proper way to empower patients’ choice and protecting the vulnerable is through driving up palliative care Guy Opperman (Hexham) (Con): Will my hon. Friend standards, not new legislation. give way? In 2010, the Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Britain, rightly, as top of the league of countries for the provision Mr Burrowes: I will conclude in a moment, because a of end-of-life care. Much of the credit is no doubt due large number of colleagues want to contribute. to the expansion of local charitable hospices that provide Jean Rostand, the French biologist, said: more than £700 million of care, the majority of which is “For my part I believe that there is no life so degraded, donated by the communities that they serve. Additionally, debased, deteriorated, or impoverished that it does not deserve more than 100,000 people donate their time to local respect and is not worth defending with zeal and conviction. I hospices each year. have the weakness to believe that it is an honour for our society to desire the expensive luxury of sustaining life for its useless, Nicky Morgan (Loughborough) (Con): I congratulate incompetent and incurably ill members. I would almost measure my hon. Friend on securing the debate. The fact that society’s degree of civilisation by the amount of effort and vigilance it imposes on itself out of pure respect for life. there are so many hon. Members here at 9.30 on a Tuesday morning shows what an important subject this I look forward to hearing hon. Members demonstrate is. He talks about local hospices. The Rainbows children’s that respect for life, for the dying, today. hospice, which is in my constituency, now looks after young adults with life-limiting conditions as well. In 9.41 am this debate, we will perhaps focus on older people, but Glenda Jackson (Hampstead and Kilburn) (Lab): we should not forget children with life-limiting conditions. May I congratulate the hon. Member for Enfield, Southgate One point that the hospice has made to me—I think (Mr Burrowes)on obtaining this debate? I agree with that my hon. Friend is coming on to this—is the fact the bulk of what he said. There is something drastically that we need to integrate both health care and social wrong with a society that can contemplate legalising care. Rainbows children’s hospice would like to see something that is, to my mind, murder. A change in the more of that from the Minister. law would inevitably define the value of a life as dependent upon physical or mental capacity. Mr Burrowes: I am grateful for that point. Integration One of the greatest regrets of my life is that I was not is needed, and we see that in the context of hospices and present when either of my parents died. They did not palliative care. We hope for that future in the reforms die at the same time: both died in hospital and there was that are going through Parliament. a period between each of them dying. One of the Although we should be proud, rightly, of individual greatest privileges that can be afforded to a caring examples in our constituencies, we should not rest on person—to us as human beings—is to be present at that our laurels. We need to build on that solid foundation, moment when the last great adventure begins, when life because far more can be done. End-of-life care is not slips away. A great strength of the Marie Curie hospice available to everyone who needs it. In fact, the palliative in my constituency is not that it exclusively treats the care funding review found that 92,000 people die in individual who is facing that last great adventure, but England every year without access to the services that that it offers care and concern for the family, so that they need. That figure equates to nearly 500,000 people they can be included in that process. during the term of this Parliament, and 700 people in Surely, we all deserve dignity in our death, whether or each of our constituencies dying without the good not that happens, as I think most of us would like to palliative care services that they deserve. experience it, in our own home. Certainly, hospices Nationally, hospices receive about a third of their provide the most extraordinary care. I agree with the funding from the NHS, but that can vary substantially hon. Gentleman that, regrettably, neither this Government across the country. Indeed, in my constituency in Enfield, nor the previous one took on board sufficiently the the NHS contributes less than 20% of what the hospice importance of hospices by financing them to the degree spends on care for Enfield patients. One of the biggest they warrant and deserve. As the hon. Member for issues facing the terminally ill is where they shall die. Loughborough (Nicky Morgan) said, we are not simply Currently, more than half the people who die in England discussing those who are elderly and facing death: this do so in hospitals and just 20% die at home, although also applies to children and young people. The particular various studies have shown that two thirds of people approach that hospices and palliative care can provide would choose to die at home. is of paramount importance. In Enfield, there are excellent palliative care services. I am somewhat shocked at the idea that hospices are I pay tribute to Nightingale Cancer Support Centre and somehow irrelevant, which is argued by some who seem North London hospice, which provides a community to believe that advances made in medical science have, 197WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 198WH during our period on Earth, ground to a halt. I remember, We can do even more with end-of-life care than we because I am quite old—[HON.MEMBERS: “No!”] I am are doing at the moment. We should seek to provide sorry, but I am. The most frightening diseases when appropriate care to everyone who needs it, as the hon. I was a child were cancer, and consumption— Member for Hampstead and Kilburn said, no matter tuberculosis—which was deemed an absolutely incurable whom they are or where they are. Figures suggest that illness leading inevitably to death. We hear that its 700 people in every constituency die without access to incidence has increased, but we do not hear much about the appropriate services they need. Of course, this needs it being an absolute death sentence. to change. We should all support the advances being made in We need to help more with planning difficult situations. medical science and research, not only in curing illnesses Understandably, thinking ahead can be traumatic for but in preventing their onset. In this instance, it is patients and families. None of us—I am the world’s paramount that our society turn its face away from biggest coward—wants to face the consequences of what could become legalised murder, and argue and death. We must therefore do all we can to ensure that press the case for increased funding, increased support the end-of-life support received runs as smoothly as for palliative care and, most markedly, support for possible. We should focus on personalisation and hospices. integration. Care needs to be developed throughout the community, 9.45 am so that the dying can spend those precious last moments in their local area, not in hospital. Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con): I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Enfield, Southgate We have already heard about the difficulties of legalisation (Mr Burrowes) on the strength and spirit of his speech. in Oregon. I also congratulate the hon. Member for Hampstead I could say much more, but I will not. I simply and Kilburn (Glenda Jackson) and very much agree applaud the words of Dame Cicely, who said, with what she said. I was privileged to be present at my father’s death. My mother will, hopefully, shortly celebrate “Hospices are places where people come to live, not to die.” her 100th birthday. Once again, I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member All hon. Members came into politics because we care for Enfield, Southgate on providing the opportunity for about life. We did not come into it to legislate about us to debate this important issue. death. This is a sensitive and serious issue. One of our former colleagues is not in great shape at the moment. If he were able to attend he would support what my hon. 9.49 am Friend the Member for Enfield, Southgate said. Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP): I congratulate the When I was Member of Parliament for Basildon I hon. Member for Enfield, Southgate (Mr Burrowes) on was privileged to lay the foundation stone for St Luke’s bringing this matter to Westminster Hall; the number of hospice. My hon. Friend the Member for Loughborough Members present is an indication of its importance. (Nicky Morgan) mentioned hospices in her constituency. Perhaps not coincidentally, we are about to recognise a In the area that I represent there is Fair Havens hospice memorial to the holocaust, to the 6 million Jews killed, and Little Havens hospice for children. I agree with the as well as to all those people who were “socially views of my hon. Friend the Member for Enfield, unacceptable” or “mentally unstable”, according to the Southgate on what Dame Cicely Saunders said. Nazis, who way back in that time took a decision to Britain is the world’s leading provider of end-of-life murder people whom they felt were not capable of care. We are the only nation to offer palliative care as a contributing to society. I want to make some comments specialist, medical discipline in its own right. about that in the short time I have. Cancer is a big killer. I can remember clearly what it Mr Julian Brazier (Canterbury) (Con): Does my hon. meant for my own family when my father had it, on Friend agree that, when Government budgets are under three occasions. He survived it, which I believe was a great deal of stress and the amount of assistance because of his faith in God, as well as the medical received from the NHS by hospices such as his and the profession and what it can do. Not everyone survives, Pilgrims hospice in my constituency is being decided, it however, and nor is cancer the only condition that can would send exactly the wrong message to those splendid be terminal and need extensive care. Numerous other hospices and to those making budgetary decisions in horrific illnesses include multiple sclerosis, lupus and the NHS if the House decided to allow assisted suicide? HIV/AIDS. Some people classify those with such conditions as on the dying pathway, but, along with other speakers, Mr Amess: I agree with my hon. Friend. His local I congratulate the UK on being top in the world for hospice does splendid work. good palliative care, which is something to be incredibly Hospice workers require four years’ intensive training proud of. However, sometimes palliative care is not the in order to practise. As a result, our hospitals and next step, and some steps might well be missed by those hospices are staffed by teams able to offer first rate who are looking to make a diagnosis rather than to end-of-life care when it is needed—all hon. Members treat an illness long term. Some suffer from incurable will be familiar with the wonderful quality of care in illnesses, but others are simply elderly and infirm and our hospices—which puts Britain at the scientific forefront need care, dignity and a programme tailored to their of palliative medicine, meaning that the care we can requirements. The word “dignity” has been mentioned offer will only improve as advances are made. If we by every speaker so far, and that underlines the issue can offer this world-leading end-of-life care, why are we clearly for me. People need dignity when they are looking to euthanasia as an alternative solution? not well. 199WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 200WH

[Jim Shannon] report of the Commission on Assisted Dying because I note that my hon. Friend the Member for Croydon I recently visited an occupational therapist whom I South (Richard Ottaway) has been given a debate by the had met during my 26 years as a councillor. I got to Backbench Business Committee. Hopefully that debate, know her well, and she was diagnosed with cancer. The in which I suspect that many hon. Members present hon. Member for Hampstead and Kilburn (Glenda today will seek to catch Mr Speaker’s eye, will give us Jackson) commented on the work of the Marie Curie the opportunity to make our views known on those centre, and I had the opportunity to visit that lady at matters. such a centre in Belfast. She had an aggressive strain of I fully endorse everything said so far today in the cancer, with six weeks between her initial diagnosis and debate initiated by my hon. Friend the Member for the end of her life—the disease struck quickly and hard. Enfield, Southgate (Mr Burrowes), so I hope not to I and her family could not but appreciate the good work repeat anything. However, it is important for us done by the Marie Curie people. At a time when she to recognise that we will all die. As a society, we need needed help most, they made her life that wee bit more to talk much more about dying and the care of the comfortable—if that is the word to use—and helped her dying. As the psalmist says: family. “The days of our age are threescore years and ten; and though No one living in the UK can be unaware of the need men be so strong, that they come to fourscore years: yet is their for efficiency savings, but in some areas we cannot strength then but labour and sorrow; so soon passeth it away, and afford to cut, and palliative care is one of those. Health we are gone.” is a devolved matter in Northern Ireland, and the health All too often in modern medicine death is seen as a service has said in its palliative care strategy: failure in some way, but supporting those who are dying “The vision of this Strategy is that any person, from diagnosis is an important part of modern medicine. to the advanced non-curative stage of disease, lives well and dies well irrespective of their condition or care setting. This requires a Three crucial things, therefore, ought to happen for philosophy of palliative and end of life care that is person-centred anyone who is dying. They should be informed and fully and which takes a holistic approach to planning, co-ordinating know and understand, as far as possible, what is happening and delivering high quality reliable care enabling patients to with their medical treatment. So far as is possible, they retain control, dignity and crucially, choice in how and where should be relieved of pain and should be able to die their care is delivered to the end of their life.” where they would most like to die. Most people, when It is about the people who are ill and who need care at asked, say that they would like to die at home, yet home the right time and in the right way. The hon. Member hospice services in this country are pretty noticeable by for Enfield, Southgate mentioned personal beliefs, cultures, their absence. I agree with the comments of hon. Members the practices of patients and so on, and I would hold to so far: we do have exceptionally good palliative care in what he said in his introduction. It is about the practices this country—where it is good it is very good—but all of patients and their families and carers, and recognising too often it is mediocre. the contribution that good palliative and end-of-life care can make to the quality of their lives and the lives Guy Opperman: I congratulate my hon. Friend the of the people around them who have to sit back and Member for Enfield, Southgate (Mr Burrowes) on securing watch their loved ones die. the debate. A lot of people present are passionate The NHS is supported by many charities, and one is Christians and see the subject from a religious standpoint. the Northern Ireland hospice. It was established in 1981 I speak as someone who was given warning of death on and provides palliative care for adults—the majority of 26 April, before my operation last year, and with respect whom have had a cancer diagnosis—although there are I take the view that, of the choices faced by individuals, young people there as well. The service began in Somerton one is the choice of their death—when they would house for in-patients but developed to provide specialist choose to go. Does my hon. Friend the Member for community nursing services, a day hospice and hospice Banbury (Tony Baldry) accept, as a matter of both law at home—the point is that the service can be at hospital and faith, that that choice belongs to us? or at home, and it supports the family. Everyone knows of the tremendous work of the Macmillan nurses— personally, in many cases, and as elected representatives— Tony Baldry: I want to resist the temptation to be and although people of Northern Ireland continue to drawn into a debate on assisted dying, because many give generously, that is not enough to sustain the high people present want to talk about palliative care, but I level of care and training. state simply that the only person who should determine when we should die is the Almighty—it is not us. If we It is important for us to remain at top of the world in get into a situation in which we pick and choose who palliative care, not because we want to show off or show dies and who lives, it is a slippery slope. However, I will our prowess, but because we want those who are dying wait until the debate to be initiated by my hon. Friend before their time to have the best care in order to ease the Member for Croydon South before I develop those their way, and to ease the pain of their families. We can arguments. show what sort of a society we are by the way we treat our vulnerable people. Along with everyone else present, On the need to enhance palliative care, I hope that I support the intention behind the debate, and I hope much more emphasis can be given to junior doctors in we can assist the people who need it most: the elderly, particular. I understand that at present they get the infirm and those who are ill and dying. comparatively little training on palliative care and, given the pressures that junior doctors are under, they often 9.55 am feel that if a patient dies they have somehow failed that Tony Baldry (Banbury) (Con): I do not intend to refer patient. They might not have: patients die, and it is a to the policy of the Director of Public Prosecutions in fact of life that people will die. Every hospital trust cases of encouraging or assisting suicide or to the should have a clear policy on palliative care and on how 201WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 202WH to enhance it. We should never forget the role of hospital have their lives enhanced and supported by the work chaplains. People approaching death often need spiritual of the hospice, augmented by a substantial number of support as well as medical assistance. Spiritual support local volunteers. In turn, those volunteers go into those is no less worthy and necessary. people’s homes. We should never underestimate the role of hospices. Hon. Members have referred to hospices in their constituencies, and I have the excellent Katharine House Jeremy Lefroy (Stafford) (Con): I am grateful to my hospice in mine. However, we must try to ensure that hon. Friend for describing the innovative care that they are better integrated in support of NHS palliative hospices in our local communities provide. In my care services. Many moons ago, in the mid-1980s, Jack constituency, Katharine House hospice does the same. I Ashley and I set up the all-party group on hospice want to draw her attention to the community lodges support, which is now the all-party group on hospice that the Douglas Macmillan hospice has set up in an and palliative care. Even then, we were concerned about area near her constituency. They allow families to come the varying amount of support from the NHS to local together and to support their loved ones in a lodge as hospices. I hope very much that NHS commissioners they are dying. will, whenever possible, see local hospices not just as a resource in developing excellence on palliative care, but Fiona Bruce: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. As as an invaluable resource to help those who are dying Siobhan Horton, the director of St. Luke’s hospice and those who are terminally ill. I suspect that the said, voluntary hospice movement still needs to be much better integrated in supporting the NHS and those who “Hospices need to actively transfer their enormous expertise in are terminally ill. I hope that the introduction of new health and social care more broadly to ensure more benefit from forms of commissioning will enable that to be done high quality care” much better. How we support those who are dying is a for more people. St. Luke’s also provides education for measure not just of the NHS, but of us as a society, and all those in the Cheshire area who are involved in we should be judged by how we care for those who are hospice work. I have visited the hospice. The ground bereaved. floor contains 14 beds, and the first floor is a resource centre with a library, advisers to inform and enable 10.1 am carers and professionals to extend their expertise throughout the Cheshire community and beyond. Hospices can do Fiona Bruce (Congleton) (Con): I support all that has that excellently, because of their unique expertise, not been said by those hon. Members who have spoken only in this country, but throughout the world. today. I want to touch particularly on the importance of how we can develop the excellent hospice care that Another project that St. Luke’s is undertaking is to already exists in our country today. Dame Cecily Saunders develop a public health approach to end-of-life issues, has been quoted. She said that the hospice movement so that ageing well and dying well are part of living well. should have three components: care, research into good It is working with the local community to improve care and education of professionals and the community communication with family members who are coming in care and end-of-life issues. Communities today need to the end of their lives, to resolve outstanding issues, to hospices to operate at that level not just within their reduce regrets, to open up conversations that others buildings, but outside. Fantastic care is given in hospices, may be reluctant to engage in, to work with family but to a relatively small number of people. members and to encourage the engagement of their In Cheshire, for example, St. Luke’s hospice, which wider community in supporting the family and individuals serves my constituency, has just 14 beds, but through who are struggling to support themselves towards the various initiatives, it has a far greater beneficial impact end of a life in the family. The aim for all who are on the wider community. I should like to share some of supported in that way is a good death. I think that we the initiatives that St. Luke’s is developing. It has recently all have that aspiration: a death within the loving embrace been invited to share those initiatives with the all-party of our family and local community.St. Luke’s is undertaking group on dying well. To give confidence and skills to serious research into that, and I look forward to hearing others to share well the care of family members, it has a more about its developing public health approach to community outreach programme, and I will refer to one end-of-life issues. of those programmes in my constituency. I want to touch on the work that St. Luke’s is doing in The village hall in a village near Alsager opened its connection with care homes. It has been involved in doors one day a week, but that is now being extended, care home education for many years, and although it so that those who are not within the hospice may come believes that some care home care is excellent, it also for day care. Nurses from the hospice spend a day at the believes that much expertise can be shared both ways. It village hall, and a group of volunteers cook lunch for is considering how to have a closer, more supportive the community’s elderly residents, who are often in relationship with care homes locally and is commissioning some difficulty with their physical and mental capabilities. a report on strategic planning and what sort of relationship They can have counselling in a private room, a massage, and support would make a positive difference to care treatments such as manicures and pedicures and engage home delivery of end-of-life care. Let us support such in hobbies. I saw some wonderful art work that they had innovations and others throughout the country to develop done over a period of months. They are provided with the excellent work of the hospice movement here, of an excellent lunch, preceded with a small glass of sherry which we can all be proud. I look forward to hearing if they want it. There is much laughter and much from the Minister how the country and the Government support, and that enables the people who visit the can continue to support and promote the extension of centre not only to remain in their communities, but to the excellent palliative care in this nation. 203WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 204WH

10.9 am shown that such care is often overlooked. In 2010, more than half of hospital maternity units still lacked dedicated Robert Halfon (Harlow) (Con): I congratulate my bereavement support, thus leading families to turn to hon. Friend the Member for Enfield, Southgate their local hospices. In 2007, an Oxford university survey (Mr Burrowes) on securing this debate. I have known of bereavement care in 10 Marie Curie hospices around him as a good friend for nearly 30 years and his values the country showed that, although there are some great have remained the same over that time. services, such care is patchy or non-existent in other I welcome this debate because I feel that we need to areas. That is why hospices such as St Clare that go move the focus of the discussion away from assisted above and beyond the call of duty in the bereavement dying and towards quality of life. I became involved services that they offer deserve recognition and extra with this issue not by accident but through involvement financial support. with my local hospice, St Clare. It is one of the most To conclude, I should like to comment on the remarks wonderful community organisations with which I have made by my hon. Friend the Member for Hexham (Guy ever had the privilege to be involved, both as a parliamentary Opperman) who is no longer in his place. I have huge candidate in Harlow for many years, and as its MP. respect for him, but he mentioned choice in death. The St Clare is dedicated to promoting quality of life and problem with assisted dying and the move towards care, and it has taught me much about the important euthanasia is that people will be pressured into making role of palliative care and how it needs our support. choices. That is why I am passionately against any move I should like to make several brief points, the first of towards assisted dying. which concerns equity of funding. St Clare hospice in Harlow receives 24% of its funding from the local PCT, Robert Flello (Stoke-on-Trent South) (Lab): I congratulate although other nearby hospices in other PCTs, such as the hon. Member for Enfield, Southgate (Mr Burrowes) Farleigh hospice or St Francis hospice, receive around on securing this debate, and I have been listening carefully 40% of their funding from the PCTs. I welcome the to the hon. Member for Harlow (Robert Halfon). Is not figure of 40% and do not deride it, but it is important to part of the problem the fact that if this House eventually— have greater equity of funding. There is also a cliff-edge sadly—legislates in favour of assisted dying, that would issue: 70% of charitable hospices have agreements with normalise the situation and mean that people and families their local PCT that last for just one year. We need who are vulnerable or in desperate straits may think, longer-term agreements, so that hospices can plan ahead. “That is normality; we will go down that route”? Does the hon. Gentleman agree that that is a dangerous route Although we often talk about the big society, the down which to go? hospice movement existed before that was even mentioned. It has pioneered the big society for many years, and 157 Robert Halfon: I agree passionately with the hon. charitable hospices in the United Kingdom receive the Gentleman; we would be taking a hugely dangerous bulk of their funding from private and community step were we to go down the road of assisted dying. We sources. More than 100,000 people donate their time to as a society devalue human life, whether through fiction, local hospices. St Clare hospice has 500 volunteers, and computer games or television, or in real life. I often on one occasion, I was pleased to work there as a wonder whether Harold Shipman would have got away receptionist. Given what the Government are trying to with killing one patient after another if we as a society accomplish in many parts of the public sector, hospices had not devalued human life in such a way. We need to deserve more recognition for their role as part of the big move away from that in a big way and back towards society. They are models of how charitable institutions dignity for the dying and strong support for palliative can raise extra funds, invest in services and train the care. community, without resources coming simply from higher taxes. 10.15 am Glyn Davies (Montgomeryshire) (Con): This is a Rehman Chishti (Gillingham and Rainham) (Con): I complex subject about which one could probably speak support everything that has been said so far about for around half an hour. I will try to confine myself to doing whatever we can to preserve life. Funding has three minutes and make an important point that I do been mentioned, as have the community and voluntary not think has been made previously. I do not want to sectors. Medway contains the Wisdom hospice, where repeat points already made by other hon. Members. £539,000 is raised annually by the voluntary and charitable I should begin by declaring an interest. I am a board sectors. That is a great example of how communities member of Living and Dying Well, which is an active want to preserve and support palliative care. and committed organisation that examines and publishes evidence-based research into assisted dying. There are many aspects to this debate, and I congratulate my hon. Robert Halfon: My hon. Friend makes a good point Friend the Member for Enfield, Southgate (Mr Burrowes) that is exactly right; his constituency is lucky to have not only on his speech but on the measured tone in him serving it so well. which it was delivered. I want to highlight bereavement counselling services. I have probably received more communication from St Clare offers such a service, and about 40% of families constituents about assisted dying than on any other that become involved with it receive bereavement subject. Most of those who have contacted me disagree counselling. That is a huge extra cost for something that with my point of view; I am totally opposed to any the hospice does not have to provide but nevertheless change in the law. All those people, however, approached offers as an extra service. Hospices receive little recognition me on the basis of compassion, usually for an individual for their work on bereavement care, and a UK study has whom they know—I am sure that many hon. Members 205WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 206WH present, and others, know of people whose lives are Human Rights Commission, calling for the Government coming to an end and who are living in such difficult to act. I hope that my hon. Friend the Minister will circumstances that it is almost a blessing when that today update us on progress. With my hospital visitor happens. Such circumstances have led people to feel hat on, I would particularly like to know whether she that there should be a change in the law. We, however, believes that there are opportunities with the Centre for are parliamentarians, and although I feel compassion Social Justice “End Loneliness” campaign, which is for the individual and understand and respect the views focused on befriending and visiting, to consider the of those who disagree with me, we as legislators have a support and advocacy services that could be developed duty of compassion to society as a whole. In my view, to support those who have no one else as they near the we cannot introduce laws that are geared towards individual end of their life. cases and are dangerous and could lead to situations I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Enfield, such as those already mentioned where pressure is put Southgate (Mr Burrowes) on securing the debate. I am on individuals and suicide is normalised. pleased that it has been focused on good-quality end-of-life In a perfect world, every terminally ill person would care, rather than assisted dying, as that is the immediate be clear thinking and not suffering from a mental illness issue. I am sorry that those two issues are often conflated from which they might recover; every doctor would be or painted as an either/or. The Commission on Assisted professional and competent to make a judgment about Dying added its voice to the previous reports in relation the end of life; and every relative would be full of to the patchy nature of good end-of-life care. It was compassion and motivated by nothing else. Our society, highly critical of the practices at Dignitas and elsewhere, however, is not like that. We live in an imperfect society, including Oregon. It highlighted the lack of research in and our laws must allow for those imperfections. the area that we are discussing. One of its key conclusions A debate to be held next spring will consider assisted was that the Government must step up their drive to dying, and we will all be able to make a huge number of improve care in this area as a priority. points and provide evidence. I would be deeply sorry if Poor-quality end-of-life care cannot be a reason for we move towards legalising assisted dying and think an assisted death. Indeed, one of the safeguards required that it would be a dreadful mistake, but we should leave by the commission’s model for assisted death in the UK that discussion until that debate. Let us recognise that, would be verification that a terminally ill patient who as parliamentarians, we have a duty first to make a huge requested an assisted death was receiving good care. commitment to social and palliative care—which as a However, the view that, if there were universal provision society we have never done—and to help people at the of good-quality care, there would be no demand for an most vulnerable stage in their lives. We should not go assisted death is a false one. It assumes two things: down the road of making things convenient by simply good-quality end-of-life care can alleviate all pain and removing those who are most vulnerable and most need suffering, and the overriding motivation for seeking an our care away from our society altogether. assisted death is poor-quality care. Neither is true. Several hon. Members rose— Those who request an assisted death are often doing so because of issues about control and their identity, and Sir Roger Gale (in the Chair): Order. Six hon. Members we must recognise that even with very good care and still wish to speak. I intend to call the Front Benchers advances in pain management, there will still be patients from 10.40 am. Again, please do the sums. who are in considerable discomfort at the end of their life. 10.19 am All in this place have great sympathy for those who Penny Mordaunt (Portsmouth North) (Con): I became wish to have an assisted death, whether or not we interested in end-of-life care in part from having been a believe that they should be granted one. We have sympathy hospital visitor at my local hospital for eight years, for the 400 people who commit suicide every year largely attending those who had no advocate, friends or because of a terminal or chronic illness. We all know family and who were nearing the end of their life. I about the sale of suicide kits—those appalling suffocation continue to work on these issues with a number of devices, which often fail to kill and instead result in organisations, including the Royal College of Nursing, brain damage. I would like the Minister’s comments on Age UK and the NHS Confederation. whether we should be doing more to end that trade We have known for some time that older people, in on the internet. We also know about the 160 people particular, are poorly served in both a hospital and a from the UK who have travelled to Dignitas. In my view community setting. To give a recent example, a constituent and the view of the commission, that is a very unpleasant of mine, who had no continence problems but was experience, and such people are often ending their lives bedbound following an operation in hospital, repeatedly very prematurely. asked for a bedpan and at the sixth time of asking was All of us have sympathy and compassion for the told to wet herself because it was nearly suppertime and people to whom I have referred. Where we differ is in no one was around to fetch the pan for her. By that whether we think that measures to enable those people time, she was so desperate for the loo that she did just to have a good death, at the time of their choosing, that, despite how unnatural and unpleasant it felt, and come at too high a price for the rest of us. There are she then had to sit in wet sheets until the meal was over. issues that are often discussed—safeguards, for example, Only then did the nursing team come and change her are deemed too difficult and have not been thought whole bed—a procedure that took more staff and time through—and issues that are just as pressing but are not than the simple act of fetching her a bedpan in the first so often discussed, such as equality of access to such a place. death. Indeed, certain issues are barely debated at all. We have had a succession of reports, including from This is a difficult subject, but we should, as a Parliament, the Care Quality Commission and the Equality and continue to discuss the plight of those people and their 207WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 208WH families, as their suffering is profound. I echo the comments humane manner than I would in a country where palliative of my hon. Friend the Member for Montgomeryshire medicine is ignored but euthanasia can be easily arranged”. (Glyn Davies); we should do that in the tone that he That is the sort of country that I want to preserve. outlined. Such suicides occur once or twice a day in the UK. 10.28 am These are a tiny minority of patients, a miniscule minority of Britons, but each of them, in my view, is entitled to a Mark Field (Cities of London and Westminster) (Con): good and peaceful death. I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Enfield, Southgate (Mr Burrowes) on obtaining this very important 10.24 am debate. We have heard a lot about palliative care and the hospice movement and we recognise what a patchwork Martin Vickers (Cleethorpes) (Con): I, too, congratulate of provision there is in different parts of the country. I my hon. Friend the Member for Enfield, Southgate take on board the warnings from my hon. Friend the (Mr Burrowes) on securing the debate. Bearing in mind Member for Portsmouth North (Penny Mordaunt) that your request for brevity, Sir Roger, I will be as brief as that should not be used as an excuse to make assisted possible. I can only agree with much if not all of what dying easier. I will concentrate my brief comments on has been said. assisted dying. In doing so, I will be taking up the In considering what to contribute to the debate, I challenge offered by my hon. Friend the Member for looked up a definition of palliative care. We tend to Hexham (Guy Opperman), who talked about whose know what that means, but the definition that I came choice this was. It perhaps was inevitable that, in answering across last night is from the National Institute for that question, my hon. Friend the Member for Banbury Health and Clinical Excellence: (Tony Baldry), as the Second Church Estates Commissioner, “Palliative care is the active holistic care of patients with took the view that the Almighty should make the advanced progressive illness. Management of pain and other determination. I recognise that many hon. Members symptoms and provision of psychological, social and spiritual present are strongly Christian, but I think that we have support is paramount. The goal of palliative care is achievement to face the fact that we live in a secular society. I do not of the best quality of life for patients and their families. Many aspects of palliative care are also applicable earlier in the course think that that answer—perhaps slightly tongue-in- of the illness in conjunction with other treatments.” cheek—will do as we go forward. My own view—this is perhaps strange, given that I am a legislator and a That seems to sum it up. Who could not support that former lawyer—is that the law is not the right place to statement? make these changes. The empire of the law should not One reason for my participation in the debate is to necessarily stretch into this area, and that takes on pay tribute to the hospices that serve my constituency, board elements of ethics and the fact that I have some as many other hon. Members have paid tribute to the belief. hospices that serve their constituencies. My Cleethorpes I have a great concern that a right to die will rapidly constituency is served by St Andrew’s hospice, based in become a duty to die for elderly folk and disabled Grimsby, and the Lindsey Lodge hospice in Scunthorpe. people. The way in which a society looks after its most Both are wonderful organisations that rely on the work vulnerable says much about it, and if we fail to look of their dedicated and skilled staff and volunteers. I after such people, and allow the law to change, even in a have visited both hospices in the past 18 months; indeed, relatively subtle way, whatever the so-called safeguards, I visited St Andrew’s only a couple of weeks ago. that will be a dangerous step. St Andrew’s also has a children’s unit that serves the whole of the county of Lincolnshire. The reality is that much of this debate is happening in I am more familiar with St Andrew’s hospice because the context of tremendous funding problems in not my father spent his last weeks in its care and my mother only the national health service, but care for the elderly—an died on the day on which she was due to be transferred issue that has appeared across our newspapers in recent to St Andrew’s. My father received care and attention weeks. In a way, those funding problems and the issue that can only be described as superb. He suffered greatly of assisted dying are almost two sides of the same coin, in the time up until he arrived at the hospice, but he with people looking at assisted dying as somehow being seemed to be pain-free during those last few weeks in an easy way forward on those funding issues. the hospice. He was in surroundings that allowed me, My concern about the law is that it is simply not the my mother and other family members to feel reassured right instrument. It will not give anything like the that everything possible was being done to give him all safeguards we need; indeed, it might make life even the support that was necessary. That was as long ago as more difficult for members of the medical profession 1988. St Andrew’s has progressed enormously since and the police, who will be reluctant to do the right then. It is now in a modern purpose-built building. The thing if the laws that are put in place notionally to drugs and methods of care available have evolved beyond provide safeguards simply regulate their lives more anything that we could have imagined 24 years ago. The stringently in reality. advances that are likely to be made in the next 24 years I speak slightly from my own experience. It is 21 years will improve the lives of people who are in their last ago almost to the month that my father died. He was days beyond measure. diagnosed with terminal cancer seven or eight months Human life is to be valued. Anything that denies that before he died. I was his next of kin, and I must confess diminishes society as a whole. I shall conclude by noting that I was very happy that we had a long-standing one of the contributions made to Lord Mackay’s Select family doctor. My instructions, and indeed my father’s Committee in 2004. It states: instructions, to our doctor were that my father did not “I would rather die in a country where euthanasia is forbidden want to die in pain, and that probably meant that he but where doctors do know how to look after a dying patient in a had more morphine, which might well have accelerated 209WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 210WH his death by a matter of days or perhaps even weeks. disease?” I suddenly realised that the hospice movement Such decisions should be made by the medical profession, was about helping young people who face not only a but my worry is that any change we make in the law will difficult disease, but the emotional difficulty of not make that right decision much more difficult, because it being able to live their life in the way we do. Hospices do will be a regulated legal decision. so much work to make the very best of difficult lives. Above all, the problem is that, if we try to introduce The holistic approach they offer—the respite care, the such changes in the law, which is natural for us as emergency care, the terminal support and the bereavement legislators, we will end up introducing a charter for support we have heard about—is vital to the families those who think there are elderly, disabled and other that need them. people whose lives have less value than those of the rest While I was working at the hospice, it needed to raise of us. That is a very dangerous way forward. £4 million a year. We got only 6% of that from the Going forward, we will all have to fight. As my hon. PCTs, which, frankly, is not good enough. We really Friend the Member for Montgomeryshire (Glyn Davies) should spend a lot more on providing excellent care to rightly said, there is a vocal group that is keen to change ensure that those who are coming to the end of their the law. All of us must now get ready for a battle to lives have the very best death possible. When the Minister stand up for the silent majority, who think, very much looks at providing money for hospices, I urge her to as we do, that the importance of life should not be recognise that children’s hospices provide very different underestimated at all. care from adult hospices.

10.32 am 10.36 am Stuart Andrew (Pudsey) (Con): There is a famous Mr Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con): There is no saying that only two things in life are certain: death and doubt in my mind that, if we allow assisted dying, it will taxes. In the short time I have been in this place, it seems eventually become encouraged exit. G. K. Chesterton we have talked a lot about taxes, but very little about wrote that, when orthodoxy becomes voluntary, it will dying. I worked in the hospice movement for more than be prohibited, and we could be on a dangerous, slippery 12 years, and the hospices have a wonderful saying that slope. One of the witnesses to the Falconer inquiry said: they cannot add days to people’s lives, but they can add life to people’s days. That is the fundamental point to “I think we can only go for terminal illness at the moment, so this doesn’t actually apply to the people who are probably about make. to go into care homes. But, you know, baby steps.” I want to talk about children’s hospices. I spent most That is a chilling statement. of my time working for Martin House, which is a children’s hospice in Yorkshire. Children’s hospices are There is a lot I could say about this issue, but time is very different from adult hospices. Having also worked short. We all know that it is virtually impossible to in an adult hospice, I have been able to see the differences predict how long someone has to live—we know that between the two. Caring for a child with a life-limiting even from the famous case of the Lockerbie bomber. and terminal illness is incredibly difficult. The whole We also know how people suffer from depression in family need support, not just the patient. One father I their last months of life. We know what has gone on spoke to said that, if he got up eight times in the night in Oregon and in the Netherlands, where 8% of all to go to his child, he considered he had had a good deaths are the result of euthanasia. We also know about night’s sleep. the experience in the Northern Territory, in Australia. Many people are frightened of using a hospice, because However, I just want to make one simple point, and I theviewisthatthatiswherewegotodie.Inmy apologise, because I suppose it is a moral point. I visited experience, however, things really are much better than St Andrew’s hospice with my hon. Friend the Member that, because hospices are about living and making the for Cleethorpes (Martin Vickers). To us, this is a moral best of difficult lives. I want to give two examples, issue; we believe that the body is simply the mirror of although I will try to be as brief as possible. Two the soul, and however old, crippled or useless someone parents came to see me after their six-week-old baby might seem to society—our society seems to be dominated suddenly died. They had spent five weeks in hospital by the worship of youth and beauty—they are of immense unable to touch the baby, but when they went to Martin value to society and should be sustained by society to House, they were allowed to hold the child. As they put the very end of their lives. it, they were allowed to be parents, rather than carers. That really shows the wonderful work that the hospice did. 10.38 am Another thing also made me realise that, for many Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): If more people suffering from terminal illnesses, the important hon. Members who support assisted suicide had participated thing is life and the issues surrounding it. I and other in the debate, one word would have been heard above all staff from the hospice were interviewing a young man others: safeguards. The only hon. Member who seemed who used it as part of a promotional video, for want of to make the case for assisted suicide talked, in a brief a better term, to help raise funds. The head of care intervention, about some people viewing these issues on asked him what the most difficult thing was about a religious basis, by which I think he meant that we having a life-limiting illness. In my naivety, I thought he should judge them on a rational basis. I judge this issue would say it was the fear of dying and the fact that his entirely on the basis of rationality, rather than religion, life would be short, but he said it was falling in love. I and according to that rationality, it is impossible that could not quite understand that at first, but he said, the safeguards can be practical or reliable. Safeguards “Who is going to love me if I have a muscle-wasting could not be applied to people choosing to end their 211WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 212WH lives, because the people who would try to apply them management of end-of-life care as one of the top 10 could not get into the minds of those people whose priorities for new commissioners. We have heard about future was in question. the unevenness of funding of hospices and end-of-life The case for assisted dying has been made by a small care, even within the same part of the country, so I number of strong-minded and articulate people who should like to ask the Minister whether it is the Department have made up their minds that they want to die, but who of Health’s view that end-of-life care should be a national cannot end their lives without help. If everyone relevant priority and how she proposes to deal with the considerable to the question were like that, there would be much less variation in quality, efficiency and funding. What is the of a problem; but the real reason why safeguards are Department doing to ensure that the NHS can support thought to be necessary is twofold. One is to prevent the voluntary sector hospices and other specialist palliative people from being subjected to subtle pressure, which care providers? Can the Minister give the House some no outside person could detect. However, as my hon. reassurance that the Government’s proposed commissioning Friend the Member for South West Bedfordshire (Andrew arrangements in the Health and Social Care Bill, which Selous) said early in the debate, even without outside is being considered in the other place, will ensure that pressure, there would be a danger that people would feel there is planned 24/7 provision of community support, they had to end their lives in a spirit of self-denial, so as including care co-ordination, nursing and symptom not to be a burden on others. There is no way to erect control? safeguards to prevent subtle pressure from being applied As I have said, we know that most people would undetectably; still less is there any way for such safeguards prefer to end their life at home, but most cannot. We to prevent people genuinely deciding, although they also know that half of all complaints to the NHS might want to continue with their lives, that they want involve criticism of the circumstances in which someone still more to end them so that they will not be a burden died. Often the time when a relative is dying is one of to others. We cannot apply safeguards to those cases, the rare occasions when a whole family come together and that is why the case for assisted dying based on the and perhaps watch the process minute by minute. Therefore, application of safeguards is fundamentally flawed. a focus on and concern with end-of-life care comes to us all, and we will all have a view on it. The Minister will 10.41 am be aware of the Demos report, “Dying for Change”. Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney North and Stoke Newington) Demos made a number of recommendations and said: (Lab): First, I congratulate the hon. Member for Enfield, “Unless we can devise ways to get people to talk about how Southgate (Mr Burrowes) on securing the debate. We they want to live while they are dying, our efforts to improve have lived through an era when MPs have been seen as services will be like groping in the dark.” irrelevant, not to say venal, and when Parliament has That is a reminder of the need to talk about and face been seen as remote. However, increasingly, in this death and to say, while still well enough to give an Parliament, we have found that we are seriously debating unconstrained opinion, how we want things to happen. issues at the centre of current political debate. The Demos referred to training in palliative care and the present debate is one of them. I want to touch on policy important question of linking hospices to groups of issues that relate to palliative care and to say a little care homes, so that hospice skills and values can migrate about assisted dying, but I will begin by saying that in a to care homes. It said that services need to be commissioned busy, urban 21st century society people seem increasingly in an integrated way. The Minister will also be aware of reluctant to talk about death or even to face the possibility Age UK’s public policy proposals on those issues. of death. The House would expect me to say a word about At the risk of generalising, I will mention that, as Labour’s record. Under the previous Labour Government, many hon. Members know, my family come from rural the NHS end-of-life care strategy was launched in 2008. Jamaica. In such rural communities, people make a It covered all adults with advanced progressive illnesses point of talking about death. People stay up all night and care in all settings. The 10-year strategy was backed with bereaved families, night after night. That may by an extra £268 million. There is no question but that seems strange to some, but it is a way of saying, “Death progress was made, as I am sure that the Minister will is a reality, and we will support you through it. Your acknowledge. The number of staff using models of care community is here for you.” In a way, the rather hurried, specifically designed for the end of life rose. Those perfunctory and frightened way that we deal with death models are now used by 75% of GP practices and in modern urban Britain is not necessarily an advance hospices and 85% of acute hospitals. on the way people deal with it in rural communities around the world. Is the Minister aware that the King’s Fund has warned End-of-life care is of course an important issue, not of the dangers of losing momentum in the drive to just because death will come to us all, but because it is a improve end-of-life care? Is she also aware of the report major issue for the NHS. It represents billions of pounds of Dr Rachael Addicott, “Implementing the End of of NHS spending—a fifth of NHS costs and a total of Life Care Strategy: lessons for good practice”? Dr Addicott £20 billion altogether. Yet, as hon. Members have said, expresses concern whereas most people would prefer to die at home, most “that the decision not to hold a review until 2013 risks losing do not have that privilege. It has been a concern of momentum and missing the opportunity to build on the progress successive Governments to find out how we can give already made.” people the range of choice that they want for end-of-life I have been fortunate, as a Hackney MP, to have a care and how we can improve the level and type of care close relationship with St Joseph’s hospice, which was that is available. set up in 1900 by five Sisters of Charity and is the place Among the published reports on the issue, the King’s where, in the 1950s, Cicely Saunders developed the Fund report identified improving the primary care principles of modern hospice care. My respect for the 213WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 214WH men and women who run hospices can not be bettered The Department of Health’s end-of-life care strategy by anyone in the Chamber today. was published in 2008 under the previous Government. As for assisted suicide, I do not want to take a I want to pay tribute to the progress that they made. It position one way or another. I have great respect for remains the blueprint for improving this area. Last colleagues who advance the case for it and for people in September we published the third annual progress report the media who earnestly want to be able to decide how on implementing the strategy. It is on the Department and where they end their lives. However, I have represented of Health’s website and I urge hon. Members to have a a busy, kaleidoscopic urban constituency for 25 years. look at that. In Hackney, the best of life and the worst of life can be seen—and the best and the worst of people. I have seen Robert Flello: Will the Minister give way? what fantastic support families can give, even when the state lets people down; but in a tiny fraction of cases, I Anne Milton: I will not for the moment, because I have seen how venal families can be. have so little time. My concern about assisted dying would be for that Our plans for the NHS mean that we want people to tiny handful of cases involving elderly people who did have as much choice as possible in treatment in life but not want to be a burden—and how many times have also in death. We want commissioners and providers to hon. Members sat in advice sessions and heard elderly ensure that the right services, which include 24/7 people say that? I would worry about the cases—tiny in community-based services, are available to support people number, but still representing the lives of actual people—in at home. which, if we were to provide a legal framework to make Progress is frustratingly slow, but the examples around assisted dying possible, such people might feel almost the country where it is working well are of note. We will an obligation to move forward. I stress to the House review progress regularly to ensure that this becomes a that that is a personal view. It comes, as I have said, reality for people. It is much overdue. from seeing the best of people, but also the worst of people, in more than 20 years of being a Member of One development is the electronic palliative care Parliament. co-ordination systems. I hate these names, but they can be effective tools. Through those, care providers can End-of-life care is one of those issues that is at the instantly share care plans and express preferences for centre of people’s debate and concern, because death care. We piloted that approach successfully in eight sites comes to us all. Advances have been made in recent across the country and it is now being adopted more times, partly through what has happened in the voluntary widely. We are also working to make sure care planning sector—in hospices all over the country, such as St Joseph’s, is a routine part of care for people who are dying. It is which is a wonderful hospice—and partly through conscious dreadful that care planning is not a routine part of care Government policy. I am interested in what the Minister for all people. That has not been the case for some has to say on policy going forward. years, but it should be. In November, NICE published its quality standard 10.50 am for end-of-life care of adults. That is an important contribution to this issue. It covers the whole of the The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health end-of-care pathway, not just the medical bit. The 16 (Anne Milton): Thank you very much, Sir Roger. May I statements include social, practical, emotional and spiritual say what a pleasure it is to be able to say “Sir Roger”? and religious support. We have also developed a national I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Enfield, survey of bereaved relatives to get first-hand experiences Southgate (Mr Burrowes) on securing this debate. It is of people’s care. The first survey should be completed timely that the House is reminded of the excellent work by March. That will inform a new indicator on end-of-life that goes on, and we have had tributes from all parts of care in the NHS outcomes framework. the House this morning for individual hospices and the To provide quality services, where and how people work of individuals. I also want to congratulate my want them, hospices and other palliative care providers hon. Friend for his comments on the fears that surround need support and funding. We will introduce a new death. Death is an inevitable consequence of life, albeit per-patient funding system for all providers of palliative for some it is tragically premature. We do not find death care, covering both adults’ and children’s services. We and dying a comfortable subject. It is thought frightening set up the independent palliative care funding review to and mysterious. If nothing else, debates such as this help take that forward. The final report was published may demystify some of the issues around death. last year. It came up with some significant proposals, I also want to mention in particular the hon. Member which we will consider in detail to ensure that we get for Hampstead and Kilburn (Glenda Jackson) and her that right. It is the first major step in local palliative care comments on the privilege it is to be present at a funding. We will have pilots to collect data and test the member of one’s family’s death. The hospice movement, review’s recommendations, which will be established as she rightly said, has enabled that to be possible for so from April this year. The aim is to have the new funding many more people today. system in place by 2015, which is a year earlier than was Services in some parts of the country are excellent anticipated. and in some parts of the country they are patchy at I also want to pay tribute to the voluntary sector. best. As my hon. Friend the Member for Portsmouth Palliative care was first developed in the voluntary North (Penny Mordaunt) pointed out, the quality of sector and it still provides us with those beacons of best care does not always live up to what we expect. It also practice. Dame Cicely Saunders has already been mentioned does not live up to what we expect in the treatment of and had tributes paid to her. She founded St Christopher’s certain conditions and in end-of-life care. hospice in 1967 and I want to associate myself with 215WH Care of the Dying17 JANUARY 2012 Care of the Dying 216WH those tributes. I also pay tribute to people such as I have ministerial responsibility for organ transplants, I Dr Colin Murray Parkes, who has done so much in the have to mention that we need to make organ donation a area of bereavement and grief. That has been mentioned, normal part of end-of-life care. We need to recognise but it possibly did not get the mention that it should. that through a sensitive approach to the family, we can, The hon. Member for Strangford (Jim Shannon) and in death, give life to many others. my hon. Friends the Members for Southend West In conclusion, we come to this place to give our (Mr Amess), for Congleton (Fiona Bruce), for Harlow constituents and this country a better life, because we (Robert Halfon), for Montgomeryshire (Glyn Davies) believe that everybody deserves a good life. and for Portsmouth North all paid similar tributes. I would love to mention every contribution in detail, but Robert Flello: Will the Minister give way? they all surrounded the same issues: this is about dignity; this is about choice; this is about life. It is also about Anne Milton: Very briefly. bereavement and the care of the relatives who live beyond the death. Robert Flello: I just want to touch on the point that in My hon. Friend the hon. Member for Banbury (Tony my constituency, the Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Baldry) specifically mentioned assisted suicide, as have Trust does some fantastic work. There is this difference other hon. Members. This is a matter for Parliament as between it and the work of the Douglas Macmillan a whole to decide, not the Government. He talked hospice just outside the constituency. There is a mishmash about the perception of failure when someone dies. On and I would be grateful if the Minister looked at that in a personal level, to be present at a good death is a the future. privilege and an opportunity, not a failure. We need to right that balance a bit and see the success in someone Anne Milton: We want to end any mishmash. We dying well. As I have said, it is such an important part want a consistently high quality of care for everybody. of the bereavement process. Everybody deserves a good life and that is why we came to this place. This debate has allowed us to debate, We have a comparatively smaller number of people discuss and share the opportunities that exist for Parliament who die in a hospice, but so many more benefit from to allow people a good death too, with dignity, without their services and expertise. We want to see hospices pain, in the company of those we love and at peace in flourish and develop. In particular, we want to see them death with the lives that we have led. continuing to expand the care they give to those with illnesses other than cancer, as well as expanding into Sir Roger Gale (in the Chair): Order. Just before we community-based support for patients, their families move to the next debate and while I am awaiting the and their carers. That is where the work that we are arrival of the Minister, who is not late, may I thank all doing on palliative care funding is so important. It will hon. Members for the tone and the self-restraint that be key to moving us towards a fairer funding system for has been exercised this morning? As a result of that, we all providers, including hospices. have managed to accommodate the views of 21 Back It would be remiss of me not to mention the one issue Benchers, in addition to those on the Front Bench. I that has not been mentioned. In accepting that death is regard that as exceptional. I hope that many people part of life, we also need to consider those who can be outside the Chamber will have heard the quality of the given the chance of life through another’s death. As House of Commons at its absolute best. Thank you. 217WH 17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 218WH

Carbon Capture and Storage (Scotland) Thomas Docherty: Clearly, the hon. Lady was not listening two minutes ago when I said that nuclear power was part of a balanced energy policy. In the UK, 11 am nuclear power has been delivering electricity safely and Thomas Docherty (Dunfermline and West Fife) (Lab): securely for nearly six decades now. When she speaks in Thank you, Sir Roger, for calling me to speak. I am the debate later, I would be grateful if she could say grateful for the opportunity to serve under your whether she thinks that having a policy of 100% renewables chairmanship again. It is the first time that I have done is a saner option than having a balanced energy policy so since your well deserved recognition in the new year’s that does not put all the eggs in one basket. Moreover, honours list. perhaps she would like to tell me how many wind farms she has supported in her own constituency. I say that For the sake of clarity, I should draw Members’ because one of the things that we often see is that attention to my entry in the Register of Members’ certain politicians make great proclamations about their Financial Interests and point out that at the last election support for certain types of energy but the moment that I received a donation from the union Unison, which has anyone tries to put those types of energy in their own a small number of members at Longannet power station backyard they suddenly seem—bizarrely enough—to in my constituency. oppose that particular scheme. Unlike the SNP, I have As Members will be aware, Longannet power station always been consistent: I have always argued that we sits at the most westerly point of my constituency. It has should have a balanced energy policy; I have always been generating electricity since 1970 and it has the argued that we should keep the lights on; and I have capacity to put some 2,000 MW into the national grid. always spelled out how and where I would do that. Scottish Power, or its parent company Iberdrola, has been the owner of Longannet power station for a number Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) (LD): I congratulate of years. the hon. Gentleman on securing this debate on a very Members will be aware that the previous Labour important issue. Does he agree that it is important to Government established the carbon capture and storage have carbon capture and storage not only for energy competition, and I will say some more about that shortly. security but for environmental reasons? Even if Scotland, At the tail-end of last year, the current UK Government with its renewable potential, were able to have a much took the decision to end Longannet’s bidding for the greater percentage of its energy supplied by renewables, £1 billion pot of money and today I hope to tease out that would not be the case in the rest of the UK and in from the Minister exactly where that decision leaves the other countries around the world. Consequently, if we future of carbon capture and storage, both in Scotland are to tackle carbon dioxide emissions, clean coal and and more generally. carbon capture and storage have to be a part of any solution we find. As I said, Longannet power station has been successfully putting up to 2,000 MW into the national grid in Thomas Docherty: I am most grateful to the hon. Scotland for more than four decades. Several years ago, Lady for making that point. She is entirely correct that it had a significant upgrade, which will give it a life this issue is not only about security of supply, although through most of this decade. As is the case with all fine that is the single most important aspect. pieces of engineering, however, there is only a limited life span left for the power station and of course there Gordon Banks (Ochil and South Perthshire) (Lab): are serious questions about how we will keep the lights Following on from the comments of the hon. Member on in Scotland. for East Dunbartonshire (Jo Swinson), does my hon. Being a grown-up, I do not think that the Scottish Friend agree that there is also an economic and industrial National party’s rather ludicrous plan for 100% of factor to carbon capture and storage, and that the Scotland’s electricity to come from wind turbines and decisions taken in Holyrood and Westminster do nothing other renewables is at all sensible or deliverable. If to create the momentum for the UK to be a leader in someone is a grown-up and has a real energy policy, carbon capture and storage? they have to look at the alternatives to that plan. I firmly believe, as I have done for a number of years, that Thomas Docherty: Yet again, I find myself in full clean coal technology must be part of an energy mix agreement with my hon. Friend, who, as my neighbouring including nuclear power stations. There should be some MP, has taken a close interest in Longannet power role for renewables and fossil fuels, mainly coal, although station. I hope that he will be able to make further I accept that there is a limited role for gas. However, I points in the debate shortly. As I was saying, security of was disturbed to learn from a much esteemed source supply must be the biggest single priority, but as colleagues this morning that 80% of the gas that we now use in the have just mentioned there are other issues and I will UK comes not from UK shores but from overseas. turn to each of them in due course. Security of supply is an important concept. For the Where do we go from here on the issue of security of benefit of the SNP, which clearly does not understand supply? We have two choices. We can have a balanced the concept, let me explain it. If we are dependent on energy policy that has clean coal technology, nuclear overseas sources of energy, we must have comfort that power, some renewables and, regrettably, a limited those sources of energy are reliable, can be delivered proportion of gas, or we can put all the eggs into one safely and are not prone to outside threat. basket, as the SNP has said in its manifesto that it will do. As I said earlier, I hope that the hon. Member for Dr Eilidh Whiteford (Banff and Buchan) (SNP): Given Banff and Buchan (Dr Whiteford) will spell out exactly recent events in Japan, does the hon. Gentleman think why we should have 100% windmills and hydro, and that nuclear power is reliable and safe? how she will achieve that goal during the next decade. 219WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 220WH

[Thomas Docherty] As the hon. Member for East Dunbartonshire (Jo Swinson) said, there are some genuine issues here about As I have mentioned, a very regrettable decision was not just security of supply, but the environment. I firmly taken by the Government on 19 October last year that, believe that carbon capture and storage is a technology for obvious reasons, was very disappointing for my worth pursuing, and my preference remains for a coal constituents and indeed for the whole of Scotland. That station for the simple reason I have spelt out already: decision was that the Longannet scheme was not going that I would be reluctant to go down the route of to go ahead. However, there is a recognition that that investing in a gas technology over the next 30 years, decision was a pragmatic one and that the Government because gas is not an indigenous supply. I recognise that have a duty to the taxpayer. The problem with carbon there is a strong case for Peterhead, which has been capture and storage is that it is an unproven technology. championed by my hon. Friends the Members for Aberdeen No Government or private company have yet come up South (Dame Anne Begg) and Rutherglen and Hamilton with a viable, large-scale carbon capture and storage West (Tom Greatrex). I hope the Minister will be able to scheme. I must say that successive Governments have outline in some detail where we are with that. been very late to understand that there comes a point when people have to push back from the metaphorical Dame Anne Begg (Aberdeen South) (Lab): Part of table and say, “We could throw billions of pounds of the problem with the Longannet development was that taxpayers’ money at something and we still have no it was coal-fired. It would have had better energy returns, guarantee that that is going to work”. because a large proportion of the UK’s energy still comes from coal-fired stations, but has not experimentation Regrettably, successive Labour and Conservative with carbon capture and storage for gas been more Governments have had a very poor track record of successful than the Longannet trial was proving to be? backing winners when it comes to new technologies and there is a genuine debate about whether Governments Thomas Docherty: I am most grateful for my hon. should try to back winners or whether they have a duty Friend’s observations. She is indeed correct. There have simply to put in place a market for private companies to been some positive signs. My note of caution, however, come up with winners. Perhaps the Minister will be able is that there is a danger that we will go down the route to say more about the Government’s thinking on that of that classic British tradition, whereby Europe and issue. the United States pursue one path and the UK does its I make no criticism of Iberdrola or of Ministers for own thing. One need only look back at the nuclear the decision that they ultimately made. Building on the programme. While the rest of the western world was excellent work of the Leader of the Opposition, my going down the water reactor route, the British, in our right hon. Friend the Member for Doncaster North own quaint way, went down the gas reactor route, (Edward Miliband), when he was Secretary of State for meaning that we had wonderful technology—what I Energy and Climate Change, the current UK Government would call the Betamax technology of nuclear power offered a £1 billion fund for carbon capture and storage. stations—but technology that was not compatible with The only observation that I would make—as I say, it is anyone else’s. not particularly a criticism but more a general observation—is that many colleagues misunderstood Gordon Banks: I will certainly not make any comments the nature of the competition. The competition was not about Betamax or VHS. Does my hon. Friend not agree a case of “last man standing wins the prize”; it was a that, given the number of coal-fired power stations in marathon, and to qualify for the funding one had to the UK and the world, and the number of new ones reach the finish line. Regrettably, but for obvious reasons coming on line in the developing world, the holy grail is because Longannet was the last entrant in the competition, carbon capture and storage for such stations? If we do there was an assumption that it would receive the £1 billion. not get our skates on, we will be left behind, economically The UK Government and Iberdrola, the Spanish energy and industrially, and will have to watch others develop giant that owns Longannet, were clearly in the region of the technology and create jobs in their economies, while £500 million apart on the start-up and ongoing costs of having to import the technology and ability ourselves. Longannet. That is regrettable, particularly for my Thomas Docherty: My hon. Friend is exactly right. constituents, but I do not think this was doable for the That is the holy grail. I am not sure if that makes my UK Government. hon. Friend the Member for Rutherglen and Hamilton What was bizarre was the intervention by our blustering West the Sean Connery or the Indiana Jones of the First Minister, who outrageously leaked the confidential analogy, but it is the holy grail that we should be commercial information to a Scottish newspaper, showing, pursuing, and it can be achieved. My point about again, that he really is not a grown-up. Also, while he Betamax is that it was a fine piece of technology, and was pandering to the galleries and attacking the UK our advanced gas-cooled reactors in particular were, Government, I noticed from answers I received from and still are, superb engineering kit. I see that the SNP UK Ministers that he did not offer a single penny of is now a convert to the case for AGRs, championing Scottish Government money to fill the gap. If the First Hunterston and Torness having life extensions in the Minister had been prepared to offer £500 million, we years ahead, but when the rest of the world is going could have taken Longannet forward but, as ever with down the VHS road, it is slightly disturbing to think the SNP, all we get is bluster, grudge and grievance, with that we are going to pursue gas at the expense of coal. no solution. Perhaps when she speaks, the hon. Member Coal is the long-term priority, and there is a significant for Banff and Buchan will spell out what the SNP market, if we can get the technology to work: we can Government would have done, because all they have export it not just to developing countries, although that done is their usual trick of having a pop at someone else would be a big market, but to many western and European and not offering any solutions. countries that are also very coal reliant. 221WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 222WH

I should perhaps say a little about the technology technology. The problem with energy and its supply is itself, and its benefits for Scotland. As Members are that by its very nature it requires long-term decisions, undoubtedly aware, the trick with the technology is not which is what makes the SNP’s ludicrous plan for 100% just to capture the carbon but to store it. The Peterhead renewables so unachievable. They have no “plan McB”—to scheme is, as I understand it, very similar to that for use the First Minister’s slogan. When the hon. Member Longannet, in that it would seek to push the captured for Banff and Buchan addresses the Chamber, I would carbon up into the North sea, into land owned by the be grateful if she spelt out how an SNP plan McB Crown Estate. It is important to recognise the Crown would work, given that it is so clearly failing on its plan Estate’s role, and perhaps the Minister can outline how McA. that will work. Reuse of the now extinguished gas and oil fields off our UK shores is also provided for. Interestingly, 11.20 am the Longannet scheme was a tri-party approach, involving National Grid, Iberdrola and one of the largest oil and Ian Swales (Redcar) (LD): Congratulations, Sir Roger, gas companies, which had an extinguished field. I hope on your ennoblement—that is not the right word, but the Minister can say more about how he will encourage congratulations on your award. I congratulate the hon. the private sector to do more such partnership work. Member for Dunfermline and West Fife (Thomas Docherty) on securing the debate. It is an extremely It is worth saying that no short-term danger is posed important issue for the long-term future of our country to the Longannet power station by the current carbon from the point of view of both power and industry. capture and storage project not getting the go-ahead. The lights will not be turned off at the station tomorrow I have more than 25 years’ experience in the electricity morning, but there is a question about its medium-term and heavy process industries. The delay in carbon capture future. There is a genuine debate to be had about and storage implementation at Longannet is disappointing. whether it would be the right decision to build another The UK is in a great position to exploit CCS. As Lord coal power station, whether Iberdrola should be encouraged Oxburgh, president of the Carbon Capture and Storage to seek a further life extension, and if so what Government Association recently put it: support could be offered, or whether, as at Cockenzie in “Experience gained in the North Sea oil and gas industry, and East Lothian, a decision is made to shift the type of the abundance of offshore geological sites where CO2 may be fuel. Whatever the options, I sincerely hope that the UK stored underground have allowed the UK to become one of the global leaders in CCS. Capitalising on this early leadership is Government will do all they can to offer genuine support vital”. to Iberdrola as it seeks to take this forward, and I would be grateful if the Minister found time—for either himself We certainly can be leaders. The same technology that or his colleague Lord Marland, who has, to be fair, been has been so successful in the complicated job of extracting, a big supporter of CCS—to meet with me. Whatever storing and processing oil and gas from the North sea decision is made about Longannet, I hope, ultimately, can be modified to put carbon dioxide back under the that when we get successful CCS we can either retrofit North sea. There is a skilled work force, and academia the station or, if we do persuade Iberdrola to go for a is already doing important support work. Professional new build, that we can get it included. For the benefit of bodies such as the Institute of Mechanical Engineers my constituents, I would be grateful if the Minister are very clear that the technology is perfectly practical, spelt out what support the Government will be able to and there is a great future here if we move quickly. The give to any new build fossil fuel plant that might be global market in the technology alone is conservatively needed to keep the lights on. estimated at $10 billion. A similar story could have been written some years I am conscious that other Members wish to speak, so ago about wind technology. We are one of the windiest I will draw my speech to a close. countries in the world, but thanks to Government dithering and lack of public and private investment, we are playing David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): I thank the catch-up and importing most of the technology and hon. Gentleman for giving way. I have listened very equipment. Having worked mainly in the private sector careful to his arguments about coal and gas. It seems until May 2010, I am baffled at the interminable time that this technology is a long way from being proven, scales I see in this job. When someone says something and it would be a big win if we could get it to work for will take six months, my questions are: so what will either gas or coal. I want to address the point about happen tomorrow and the next day, and how can we Longannet. The Government’s most recent publication, shorten the critical path? I am then met by blank looks. “The Carbon Plan”, which came out about a month I am sure that the giant new Tesco store being built in ago, states that the first decision about an operational my constituency would not have gone from a green field plant for CCS will be made in 2018. That is a long time to a functioning supermarket in six months with politicians after the current generation of coal is scheduled to be and civil servants running the project. My challenge to switched off, so there is an issue there if we expect this the Minister is: how fast can we go and what is getting technology to save some of the coal stations that are in the way? planned to be switched off in the next five years. We should be ambitious about CCS in the UK. It is needed to decarbonise our power production and our Thomas Docherty: I am most grateful to the hon. heavy industry. The areas that get CCS infrastructure Gentleman, because he has reminded me of an important will become magnets for new power and industrial issue. If the project had gone ahead at Longannet, the investment. That means that we can protect energy-intensive full 2,000 MW would not have been converted to a CCS industries, which are currently being challenged by European scheme. Forgive me if my figures are slightly out, but Union and United Kingdom climate measures, and roughly only 20% of the capacity would have moved help to reverse the decline in our manufacturing sector. across. He is entirely correct to say that it is a long-term Failure to act will lead to more announcements like the 223WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 224WH

[Ian Swales] UK-wide strategy, action to remove roadblocks to progress and a sense of urgency are needed from DECC, so that recent one on the closure of the UK’s last aluminium the UK can genuinely lead in this exciting new industry. smelter. Ironically, it is in Northumberland next to the North sea, and the owners had considered using CCS to 11.28 am keep the plant going. It is now too late. Where should CCS investment take place? Again, we Dr Eilidh Whiteford (Banff and Buchan) (SNP): I should be ambitious. There are four obvious prime congratulate the hon. Member for Dunfermline and locations: the Aberdeen area, the Forth, the Tees and West Fife (Thomas Docherty) on securing the debate. I the Humber-south Yorkshire area. They all have merits, am rather disappointed that he chose to squander his and the Department of Energy and Climate Change opportunity today; instead of asking the Government should kick-start development in them all. A long-term about progress on the plans for carbon capture and strategy should be developed for CCS infrastructure. storage in the UK, he preferred to take pot shots at the First Minister, who not only is not here but does not Thomas Docherty: I have listened carefully, and have the power to make decisions on CCS that will be disturbingly I find that I must agree with a lot of what made under the current constitutional arrangements. the hon. Gentleman says. On his point about funding I want to focus on CCS in Scotland. I share the hon. all the schemes, surely the great challenge is that there is Gentleman’s disappointment and frustration over the a finite pot of money. How should that problem be abandonment of the Longannet project. It promised addressed? job security for the folk involved, offered technological innovation and would have brought significant investment Ian Swales: I thank the hon. Gentleman for that to Fife. I regret that it hit the buffers, but it is not only challenge. I do not necessarily see it as my job to the people of west Fife who have been frustrated by the represent the Treasury, but £1 billion for less than a slow progress of carbon capture projects in Scotland. quarter of the Longannet power station was not a good Peterhead, in my constituency, has long been recognised use of money. Having talked to people in the industry, I as having leading potential as a site for CCS. Indeed, think that there are better ways. Conglomerates of Scottish and Southern Energy asserted that Peterhead private sector companies want to get into the sector, represents the best site in the UK for a gas demonstrator and we need to be more imaginative about how we CCS project. By no means is that a new plan. The make that happen. previous CCS plan for Peterhead was abandoned in 2007, after expectations were raised and then dashed. Dame Anne Begg: One problem is that at the moment, Frankly, delays and indecisiveness on the part of the private sector cannot see that it is a worthwhile Government led BP to scrap its plans and turn its business proposition. One of the difficulties faced by attention to projects overseas. The problem was that the CSS in this country is that the economic arguments do previous Government were not decisive enough. not yet stack up. Thomas Docherty: The hon. Lady has commented on Ian Swales: The hon. Lady makes a good point, and two decisions, but will she clarify whether a Scottish that is where we must challenge the private sector and Government, if they had the powers, would have gone be imaginative about the schemes. I will come on to a ahead with both those schemes? Would they have put scheme I am familiar with that is not in Scotland, but up the £1.5 billion to £2 billion needed for Longannet for which there is already a conglomerate of companies and the sum needed for Peterhead? ready to roll—household names in the gas and pipeline industries and lots of different companies. It can be Dr Whiteford: I do not deal in hypotheticals. I wish done. that the hon. Gentleman would turn his attention to To those who say that such development is highly where we are now and how we are going to progress, expensive, I say that we need to look more at the overall because important questions need to be answered. longer-term finances for the Government, industry and energy generation. For example, it has been estimated Thomas Docherty: Thatisano. that the CCS project proposed for Teesside can generate a peak of £1 billion a year in extra petroleum revenue Dr Whiteford: No, it is not. The Scottish Government’s tax for the Government, through oil companies using commitment to carbon capture and their involvement CO2 to get more oil from their North sea wells. That in discussions about Longannet and Peterhead have possible extra oil recovery from the North sea is estimated been constructive throughout the process. I hope the at 4 billion barrels. The use of CO2 for enhanced oil Minister will comment on how he has worked with the recovery is already widely practised in the United States. Scottish Government on the carbon capture and storage The debate is about Scotland, but a project is ready to projects. go in Teesside, and the necessary list of major players in The Peterhead project was resurrected in 2010 when pipelines, processing and so on are ready to start. More Scottish and Southern Energy Group revived the idea, than 30 large CO2 emitters in the power and industrial and last November it joined forces with Shell to make sectors can be connected to the system. Interestingly, a progress on the plans. Those companies are committed few of those are using biomass, which raises the prospect to a gas demonstrator at Peterhead, using storage in the of net carbon-negative power—sequestering CO2 from Goldeneye field and the existing North sea infrastructure the atmosphere. By generating clean power and running going out from St Fergus. The Goldeneye field is available clean industry, CCS can make a huge contribution and has the right pressure and capacity to make the to UK climate change targets. A clear and ambitious project viable in technical terms. 225WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 226WH

I do not think there is much argument any more with proper comparative advantage in gas CCS technology. the view that we need to mitigate the environmental It is about not just our domestic markets but international impact of fossil fuels if we are to have any hope of marketability. meeting our international commitments and obligations The key issue is funding. There is no doubt that the in tackling climate change. We need to continue using collapse of the Longannet project and the Treasury’s fossil fuels, but we also need to make them cleaner. It is announcement that it would reallocate the underspend also evident—I was surprised by the hon. Gentleman’s has created a great deal of anxiety and uncertainty. comments on this—that gas will remain a crucial part However, Shell and SSE have made it clear that they of our energy mix. What are the Minister’s views on the would require funding in the next two to three years to role of gas in the UK’s energy supply? It is important to make the project viable, and revenue support during the understand the role that CCS might play, not just from operational period. In that respect, the energy companies the perspective of energy security, but from that of the have argued that spreading the finance too thinly over sustainability of our planet. too many projects risks jeopardising all of them. What proportion of the funding will the Government Thomas Docherty: Will the hon. Lady give way? make available during this Parliament? What discussions have been had about the prospects of levering in further Dr Whiteford: I will, and I hope the hon. Gentleman’s investment from sources other than those in the public intervention will be better than his previous one. sector? What is the Government’s response to the argument that the UK needs to focus its efforts on funding and risk management? The Government have published a Thomas Docherty: I am not sure whether I heard the timeline for implementation. How likely is that timeline hon. Lady correctly, so will she clarify whether she to be met and how is it progressing? thinks it a good thing that we would import 80% of our gas not from Norway, but from Kazakhstan, the middle We have to recognise that this is a demonstrator east and other slightly insecure regions? plant. It carries investment risks and might not go smoothly and completely according to plan, but that is why it is so important for it to have Government backing. Dr Whiteford: I agree with the hon. Gentleman that I hope the Peterhead project will progress apace. energy security is crucial, but the point about gas is that I do not think we have a choice any more, and the reason why we will have to use gas, wherever it comes 11.36 am from, is the previous Government’s indecisiveness. They Gordon Banks (Ochil and South Perthshire) (Lab): I refused to make decisions, for example, on whether to congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Dunfermline have new coal at Kingsnorth. After 13 years in government, and West Fife (Thomas Docherty) on securing this it is very easy for the previous Government to put debate, which is extremely important to Fife and central pressure on the new Government, but they need to take Scotland, as well as to the UK in general. I am disappointed some responsibility for their own decisions when they with the Longannet decision. It affects my constituency, were in office and their failures, which have made us which borders that of my hon. Friend more or less at very dependent on external gas at present. Longannet, very much. Many of my constituents work That, however, does not negate the argument for a at Longannet and I would have had high hopes of many CCS gas demonstrator project at Peterhead. We are more of them finding employment in a successful carbon where we are and we are dependent on gas, but the and capture storage plant there, but we are where we proposed Peterhead site fits in extremely well with both are. the UK’s strategic objectives and the EU’s strategic It is vital that we have a balanced energy policy. We priorities. It is also very well located for old oilfields in have to embrace renewables of all natures and there has the North sea. We are in a good position to use them—it to be a role for fossil fuels and, indeed, nuclear. We have is probably a better position than that of anywhere else to have a guarantee that, when we press the light switch, in Europe at present. the light comes on. Unless we embrace all available technologies to ensure that that happens, we will find David Mowat: I agree with the hon. Lady that gas is ourselves socially and economically challenged. the default solution to energy where decisions have not We need to determine—we can only do this through been made. On gas from overseas, I think I am right in full-scale trials—whether carbon capture and storage is saying that the majority of our coal also comes from a real option for future economic prosperity, as well as overseas at the moment, but we can rest assured that, for dealing with the knock-on environmental issues, from 2015, Europe is likely to be flooded with cheap which are the driving factor. It is equally important to shale gas from the US, so I think our concerns about determine what a successful CCS programme—developed that particular fuel source are misplaced. and branded in the UK—could deliver to the UK economy in terms of revenue and the skills of our Dr Whiteford: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman, constituents. who has considerable expertise in this area, for making The Scottish Government did not do anything in the important point that it is not just gas but coal that relation to the Longannet decision. There was a lot of comes from overseas. The point about CCS technology hot air from the First Minister, and it is hot air that we is that it is extremely marketable and the UK has a are trying to stop. It would have been much more comparative advantage in that market. A number of constructive for the Scottish Government to have done coal demonstrator projects are taking place elsewhere in something to facilitate the development of Longannet. Europe, whereas gas is not being explored to anything Did the Minister have any discussions of that nature like the same extent internationally. That could give us a with the First Minister? 227WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 228WH

[Gordon Banks] Gordon Banks: My hon. Friend makes a valuable point. We must determine what becomes a priority in In an intervention, I made the point that, with coal-fired the United Kingdom and ensure that people’s lives are power stations in the UK and throughout the world—an not blighted by decisions that are trying to make things increasing number are coming online in countries such better. There is a real need to recognise that we must as China—CCS is the real gain and the holy grail. We have security on a core range of issues, one of which is need to focus our minds on it in the UK, while bearing energy. I embrace the possibility of ensuring that future it in mind that both the public and private sectors have CCS opportunities and, indeed, new build with carbon limited resources to invest. I will come to that in a capture get the relevant scrutiny and are of benefit to moment. the UK, Scotland and the immediate community. Future Can the Minister confirm the expected release date of CCS opportunities need to be fully valued and evaluated the CCS roadmap, because that is absolutely vital for in that process. the private sector embracing the challenge of this technology In conclusion, the Longannet decision was extremely and seeing the Government as a partner in this? Unless disappointing. It did not send the right message to the the Government play their part, we cannot expect the energy sector or to the people working in it. Today, the private sector to play its part. That in itself will create Minister has an opportunity to try to undo some of jobs, technology and developmental skills that I hope that damage and I look forward to his comments with we can build on and in some way export. CCS could bated breath. I hope that he will take that opportunity create 13,000 jobs in Scotland and 14,000 jobs elsewhere on board. in the UK. By 2025, the sector could be worth more than £10 billion a year to the economy, which, in 11.44 am addition to the environmental impact, makes CCS a bit of a no-brainer. We have touched on how many times David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): Thank you we have been left behind. for letting me speak, Sir Roger—I had not intended to do so. I want to make two points in relation to some of Ian Swales: Does the hon. Gentleman agree that, if the comments I have heard: one in favour of CCS and CCS is worth £10 billion to the economy, those who will one expressing some reservations. I will mention the benefit have an incentive to help to get things going? It latter one first, which relates to cost. does not seem to make sense to rely only on Government Many hon. Members have talked about the benefits funding. of CCS technology. Of course, we live in a country where energy is still 90% fossil fuel generated, and anything that can enable us to make the transition from Gordon Banks: The hon. Gentleman is perfectly correct, that in a carbon-free way, such as CCS, is attractive. Yet but what the private sector needs is for the Government there seems to be something wrong. What the Government to show a willing lead. What happened at Longannet should be doing is setting a price for carbon and then could be construed as not demonstrating that. The letting the private sector do the work. We do not know Government need to step up to the plate here and throw the details about Longannet but, for whatever reason, the gauntlet down to the private sector. that approach is not enough. People are saying that we As I was saying, how many times have we been left have to invest a further £1 billion here and have a behind and missed the boat in the UK in terms of further pilot scheme there. What the Government’s role various different technologies? The hon. Member for ought to be—this is the energy market reform—is, as it Redcar (Ian Swales) talked about wind technology. It is is with nuclear, to set a price for carbon, give industry a crying shame that we are where we are with wind that stability and let it make the investment. For example, technology. We are largely importing the technology let us consider Iberdrola. and the equipment to build turbines. That really has been a missed opportunity. Although CCS may be Ian Swales: The hon. Gentleman might be interested costly—I will come back to that matter—it is an opportunity to know that the pressure I feel in my constituency is we cannot afford to miss. essentially coming from industry, not from power generators, We need something from the Government to show because industry can very much see what is happening that they are embracing CCS and that demonstrates to to it competitively and so on through carbon pricing. the private sector how serious they are. The hon. Member Does he agree that there may be a carbon pricing for Warrington South (David Mowat) raised the point method that can incentivise the power sector to play its about CCS being expensive. Yes, it is. There are no part in bringing this new technology on board faster? cheap or quick fixes to our energy position, but we have to consider what the fixes are and CCS is potentially David Mowat: I do not, no. If this technology is to one of them. Governments in Holyrood and Westminster work, it has to be done on the same playing field as need to step up to the plate, and I am not sure they are everything else. I mentioned the price of carbon. The doing that. other thing about CCS technology that is not in doubt is that it requires an injection of power over and above Thomas Docherty: Does my hon. Friend have any what a power station is currently using—in the order of views on what Governments can do in terms of the 25% for coal. That is an immediate increase in emissions planning system, because it strikes me that one of the and everything else just to make CCS work. great challenges we face, particularly given the long lead-in time on a new-build plant, is ensuring that that Gordon Banks: I want to press the hon. Gentleman type of decision is not held up unnecessarily through and ask him whether he is advocating that the Government the planning process? should not be spending this £1 billion. 229WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 230WH

David Mowat: I am willing to accept that this technology work through, and I have said this in other forums. The is new and that the Minister might therefore say it is a Climate Change Act 2008 requires us to reduce our bet to try to get it to work in our country. I agree that carbon emissions by 80%—a huge and difficult target, our country is uniquely well suited for CCS because of but it is right that we are trying. My concern is that, in the offshore gas fields. In places such as Germany, 2009, the EU 20-20-20 directive required us to increase people have been resistant to CCS because the fields are our use of renewables by a factor of five over a decade onshore and they do not want CO2 under them. Our or so. That objective is not necessarily consistent with country is in a uniquely good position for CCS, as it is the objective of reducing carbon. for wind, and I do not necessarily begrudge the Government It is possible that CCS may lose out, like nuclear, spending the money. However, I repeat the point that, through a little bit more ambivalence on the part of structurally, the energy market reform sets the price for Government. I looked at the Government’s carbon carbon and we should let the market decide. We will plan. It estimates how much of our electricity will be watch with interest whether the market does decide that produced from CCS by 2030 and how much will be this technology is worth pursuing. That is my negative produced from renewables. I am not anti-renewable at point. I shall now make my positive point. all, if it can be made to work in a cost-effective way. The Government’s estimate for 2030 is a factor of five Thomas Docherty: The hon. Gentleman is certainly difference between renewables and CCS. I do not know bringing a different perspective to the debate. Does he whether CCS will be made to work or not. We should not accept that Governments have given subsidies and try, and it would be great if it did, but I am worried that financial support to both nuclear and renewables for a the emphasis of policy is not on carbon reduction. The decade-plus and that CCS pump-priming would be no emphasis of policy is on renewables, and that might different from the support that those industries already take us to, or down, a sub-optimal path. get? Ian Swales: Just one point of clarification: those two David Mowat: That is a fair point. In the energy things are not necessarily entirely separate. A new 300 MW market reform that has been published, the Government biomass power station has been announced for Teesport. are very proud of the fact that they are giving no A CCS network in the area could actually feed into subsidies to nuclear in going forward—[Interruption.] that. As I said earlier, we could end up with carbon Well, that is a different argument. The Government negative power as a result of doing that, so they are not have subsidised and continue to subsidise renewables. entirely separate. While 300 MW is not a huge amount, That takes me to my next point. it is worth noting that the Longannet project was only 400 MW. Dame Anne Begg: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? David Mowat: I agree. I mentioned CCS and nuclear David Mowat: Certainly. I have clearly aroused some as opportunities. Biomass is also an opportunity. In interest. common with the first two, it is also not a renewable. As I said, I am concerned that the emphasis of policy is in Dame Anne Begg: Does the hon. Gentleman accept the wrong place. The 2008 Act was a hugely ambitious that it is not simply about the economic argument plan to try to achieve. We should not be diverted from because if we leave the market to decide, it will always doing so and we should look very hard at optimising go for the cheapest option? There is also an environmental that. argument and the Government need to be involved on that basis because this is still a new technology with [MR GEORGE HOWARTH in the Chair] demonstrator projects. Until the technology can be Finally, we have not really covered nuclear in any proven, the market and the industry will not make the detail, other than an exchange at the start between two investment. The Government may therefore need to hon. Members from north of the border—the hon. make that investment to pump-prime and ensure that Member for Dunfermline and West Fife (Thomas we get the environmental benefits. Docherty) and the hon. Member for Banff and Buchan (Dr Whiteford). People say to me that there is no David Mowat: Just to be clear, I completely buy into cost-effective option. On the facts, it would appear that the Climate Change Act 2008 and its requirements. nuclear is cheaper than some of the other options, but However, the way that the Government have chosen to of course the market needs to determine that. I agree meet their environmental obligation is by setting a price with that. The carbon price will allow that to happen. to carbon. That is what makes CCS viable because, That needs to be the case with CCS. obviously, the companies will save the money from burning the carbon at whatever the rate is—£30 or £50 a 11.53 am tonne—and so on. That is my point. The level playing field that the Government are trying to obtain through Tom Greatrex (Rutherglen and Hamilton West) (Lab/ the energy market reforms is being achieved over the Co-op): It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, medium term by the price of carbon. Mr Howarth. Let me now make my point about CCS from a more We have had an interesting and wide-ranging debate positive point of view. What worries me a little about on CCS in Scotland and other related factors. It is not a the Government’s position on CCS is a little similar to surprise that the debate has sometimes ranged beyond what worries me about the Government’s position on CCS projects in Scotland, because so many aspects of nuclear. Both CCS and nuclear have one thing in common: energy policy and energy considerations are tied up they are extremely good at reducing carbon, but they with the potential—the potential projects and the success, are not renewables. The Government have an issue to or otherwise—of CCS. I am sure there are many other 231WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 232WH

[Tom Greatrex] importance of the industrial and technological potential that undoubtedly exists in the UK. The clock is ticking, issues, from the contributions we have heard, that the however, and he gave an apposite warning about the Minister will wish to reflect on. He missed the very start potential for missing out on that, as indeed did the hon. of the debate, but what is gratifyingly clear from the Member for Redcar (Ian Swales), who has experience in whole of the debate is that—despite one comment from the industry and related industries. The hon. Member the hon. Member for Warrington South (David Mowat)— for East Dunbartonshire (Jo Swinson) made the important nobody taking part in the debate fails to see the potential point that this is also about reducing carbon emissions, of CCS and its impact. From time to time there is a which is fundamental to our energy future. view that, because CCS is unproven and has not been Scotland has had a relatively long, and sometimes demonstrated on a commercial basis, it is a distraction. chequered, past—and present—with CCS: from Peterhead I do not believe it is a distraction. It is integral to to Longannet, and back to Peterhead again. There is achieving the right, balanced energy policy and the also the potential of the Hunterston project, which is right mix of energy sources, and to reducing carbon currently caught up in the planning process. Other hon. emissions at the same time. It is interesting and positive, Members referred to the difficulties that can arise with therefore, that that view has not been expressed during the planning process. the debate. At various points, there has been lots of excitement I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for about the potential of all those projects in Scotland. Dunfermline and West Fife (Thomas Docherty) on There is a real opportunity for Scotland to be a world securing the debate. He touched on many issues from leader in this low-carbon technology. Much of the the perspective of representing the Longannet power academic expertise is in the UK, particularly in Scotland, station. Everybody felt disappointed with the announcement notably Edinburgh. It would be a shame if that potential that Iberdrola and the Government had concluded that was not realised first in the UK. As my hon. Friend the the Longannet project was not able to go any further Member for Ochil and South Perthshire made clear, we without significant additional funds. In fact, even with should not overlook the potential for jobs and the value the significant addition of funds, there may well have to the economy. Many hon. Members have touched on been other technical issues that may have made it impossible Scotland’s potential, particularly within the UK. It has to go further. That decision was not necessarily a party access to geological formations off the North sea that political issue. It is, I think, a deep disappointment to are ideally suited to carbon storage, and we have heard everybody who is interested and committed to energy about the issues in Germany and elsewhere regarding policy. under-land storage. Some of the commentary around the issue was unhelpful. All those things make it important that the Government I had the pleasure—it was not that much of a pleasure—of remain committed to CCS, including, potentially, in rereading some of the comments made by the First Scotland. That does not mean that the decision on Minister and other members of the SNP immediately Longannet was not disappointing, as I have said: it was after that decision. While I understand that the predecessor bad news for the plant, for the local economy and for of the hon. Member for Banff and Buchan (Dr Whiteford) Scotland. My two hon. Friends here today with local was caught up in the moment at his party conference connections made that point eloquently. However, as shortly afterwards, his description of the Government my hon. Friend the Member for Ochil and South Perthshire turning their back on a world-leading technology and said, we are where we are and we have to deal with the £1 billion of investment not being there was perhaps realities. The important thing now is that the potential going further than the facts allowed. That was disappointing demonstrated in the work at Longannet is not lost, so in many ways, but not necessarily that surprising. that we do not have to start from scratch. I am pleased to have found out in my discussions with Scottish and Southern Energy—or SSE as it is now Thomas Docherty: Does my hon. Friend think it is formally known—that some work undertaken at Longannet interesting that, for all the bluff, bluster and ranting is being used to help inform current work in relation to from the SNP, when push comes to shove they would Peterhead. It is important that we do not have to start not have put a single penny into the scheme? We have from scratch each time, because then our ability to get heard nothing today about how much it is prepared to ahead of the game would almost certainly be lost. fund. It is important and significant that we understand the difference between CCS being encouraged through other Tom Greatrex: I think my hon. Friend is trying to aspects of energy policy, including carbon pricing, in tempt me into one aspect of a constitutional debate that the longer term—as the hon. Member for Warrington we will have in the next—however long, and I am sure South mentioned—and where we are now, because this we will have plenty of opportunities. I join other hon. technology has not yet been proved commercially on a Members in seeking clarification from the Minister on significant scale. The real potential has been demonstrated, what offers of funding for CCS were made, if any, from but it is reasonably widely accepted, if not universally, the Scottish Government. It would be interesting to that to get that benefit Government intervention and learn more about that issue if he has the opportunity support is needed in the initial stages. to address it in his winding-up speech. The hon. Member for Banff and Buchan touched on I want to reflect on some of the contributions to the the Peterhead project, and many hon. Members who debate, because so many aspects of energy policy are are not here have commented on the decisions made in tied up in them. My hon. Friend the Member for 2007. I am tying this issue into Longannet because Dunfermline and West Fife touched on security of sometimes, as I have said, party politics gets in the way supply. My hon. Friend the Member for Ochil and of the realities of projects that have potential but, for South Perthshire (Gordon Banks) touched on the whatever reason, cannot be taken further forward. 233WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 234WH

The predecessor of the hon. Member for Banff and House to provide some clarity, and he said that he Buchan talked about the Peterhead project being lost to thought the issue had been dealt with with the appropriate Abu Dhabi. He is a frequent traveller, at the moment, to degree of clarity beforehand. that part of the world. I wonder whether he would, Four Cabinet Ministers were, in the space of 11 sitting either through the hon. Lady or at some other point, days, given an opportunity on the Floor of the House inform us what happened in Abu Dhabi, because I to spell out clearly and without ambiguity exactly how understand that BP’s hydrogen power project has still much money was available for CCS in this Parliament, yet to get the go-ahead there. Sometimes the simplistic what the impact would be on the timeline for distributing sloganising around this issue does a disservice to the that funding and whether the funding was, potentially, technological, practical and engineering hurdles that we being spread far too thinly to have a positive impact. On still need to get over. Sometimes, the degeneration of each occasion the Government were found wanting: this important matter into an “England versus Scotland” rather than providing potential investors with the clarity or a “Scotland being done down” debate does it a they were asking for, they preferred to provide further disservice. confusion. Funding is important and I am sure the Minister will have expected me to mention that, given that I have The Energy Minister even claimed, in a written answer used many opportunities in the past few months to seek to me, that the Chief Secretary to the Treasury had not answers on this issue. It is important that we get clarity made any announcement on CCS funding. People who from the Minister today, including about the funding heard the interview I have mentioned would beg to that is available going forward. At the time of the differ: although it may not have been a formal Longannet decision, the Minister’s boss, the Secretary announcement to Parliament, that statement by the of State for Energy and Climate Change, said at Energy Chief Secretary has caused such a degree of concern questions that there would be no backsliding from the that it is incumbent on the Government to provide the Treasury, that the £1 billion would be available for CCS clarity we need now. funding, and that that was an absolute commitment. I should like to touch on the European NER300 Yet the day before the autumn statement—I am sure the funding package. The lack of clarity about Government Minister recalls the radio interview—the Chief Secretary funding for CCS projects has a knock-on effect on to the Treasury made it clear that the £1 billion for CCS other sources of funding, which hon. Members have would be subsumed within the £5 billion infrastructure mentioned, whether private or public. One such source plan, although he was not clear about what would then is the European Union NER300 programme. The six be available for CCS. The ramifications of the interview CCS projects competing for funding from the UK are on 5 Live that morning were pretty significant and have also doing so at European level. caused a degree of concern in the industry that has not yet abated. Perhaps the Minister will comment on that The Peterhead project is seeking funding. The chief and say what that means for the timeline for the executive of SSE, Ian Marchant, has made it clear development of CCS. that the development of the commercial-scale CCS demonstration is dependent, to some extent, on levels The subject of the debate is projects in Scotland. The of support from both the EU and the UK Government. Minister will be aware of SSE’s projections regarding The criteria for accessing EU funding are clear. Before when it expects such projects to be up and running: that any allocation of EU money for a CCS project that is is, before the end of current comprehensive spending seeking both member state and EU funding: review period. There is a degree of doubt and concern about that, because the Government are saying that the “Member States will be asked to confirm the value and structure of the total financing of the projects concerned, and any project £1 billion will be available, but not necessarily in this for which confirmation is not forthcoming will be replaced by the Parliament. How can they make that commitment ahead next highest-ranked project.” of the next CSR? The industry is concerned about certainty and stability in relation to that funding; it is Those words are chilling, and unless that criterion has important that it know exactly where it stands. changed, they highlight the urgent need for the Government to get in place their plan in relation to CCS, so that that Again, will the Minister make it clear how much of opportunity is not missed. the £1 billion that his boss said there would be no backsliding on will be available during the current CSR The Government held an industry day just before period? How much of the £1 billion previously set aside Christmas, which many people were hoping would answer for CCS will now be used for other infrastructure projects? some questions. Given the questions and answers published Will those other infrastructure projects in the Treasury on the Minister’s website and the views of people who infrastructure fund exclude CCS, and is the money attended that event, I do not think it answered many being double-counted? What form will the remaining questions, other than to say that at some point questions funding take? Will it be up-front capital, or fixed or would be answered. I hope the Minister takes this variable payments over time? opportunity to answer those important questions. I am asking the Minister these questions again because Scotland is at the forefront of this pioneering low-carbon on 29 November 2011, I asked the Chancellor during technology, which could hugely benefit our energy security his autumn statement to provide some clarity, but he and how energy policy is taken forward across the UK was not able to do so. On 1 December I asked the and more widely around the world. However, as hon. Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change to Members have highlighted, the right support from the provide some clarity, but I am afraid his answer was not Government is needed to get that opportunity up and clear. On 6 December I asked the Chief Secretary again running. It is time for the Minister and the Government to provide further clarity, but, again, he was unable to to bring the uncertainty to an end, to provide clarity do so. On 15 December I even asked the Leader of the and to come clean on CCS. 235WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 236WH

12.9 pm in pre-combustion technologies, such as the BP project at Peterhead, could not qualify. The assumption at the The Minister of State, Department of Energy and time was that the technology could then be sold to Climate Change (Charles Hendry): It is a great pleasure China and elsewhere to retrofit old plants, but the to serve under your chairmanship today, Mr Howarth. I Chinese are now clearly quickly developing their own begin with an abject apology to you and to the House technology that they want to sell to the rest of the for my late arrival. I am afraid that there was confusion world, so we need to look at a wider range of technologies. in my office about the time at which the debate started; I An added complication, which I will come to later, is therefore turned up slightly late. I apologise profusely retrofitting an old technology to an old plant, with the and will write to Mr Speaker to make my apologies significant extra costs inevitably occurred in bringing known to the House. that plant up to scratch, to give it decades of future life, In particular, I had wanted to hear the comments of on top of the cost of the CCS alone. the hon. Member for Dunfermline and West Fife (Thomas Docherty). He has shown a strong personal commitment We all agree that CCS can play a fundamental part in to the issue that goes way beyond the interests of his delivering our secure, low-carbon energy needs. It provides constituency alone, to look much more broadly at the us with a generation option that other technologies do interests of carbon capture and storage and future not: its flexibility can provide a balance between the energy development in the United Kingdom and intermittency associated with renewables and the base-load particularly in Scotland. I am profoundly grateful to nature of nuclear. It allows fossil fuels to play a full part him for his interest and the expertise that he has shown, in our low-carbon future and allows the decarbonisation and I was keen to hear his remarks in full—I will read of industrial emissions. We—the whole of the United them—but of course I accept his request for a meeting. Kingdom and the Government—remain firmly committed If he and other hon. Members wish to talk to me about to working with industry to achieve that. their concerns in more detail at any point, they are more We have made available £1 billion of capital funding than welcome to do so. to support early CCS projects, and I will say more on We have had an extremely valuable debate, characterised that in a moment, in response to the questions. We are by the extent to which hon. Members have spoken with establishing a market for CCS electricity through our both commitment and expertise. It reinforces why we all reforms to the electricity market. We are continuing to desire the issue to be seen as outside politics, and there lead the world in putting in place the regulatory framework is an enormous prize for our whole country. People to support CCS, including legislation on third-party looking to invest want to see as much clarity and access to pipelines. We are supporting essential research agreement between the parties as possible, to which the and development, including opening the UK’s first tone of the debate has been conducive. We are all carbon capture demo at the Ferrybridge power station. frustrated about the pace of progress and we are all We have also established the CCS development forum, disappointed that the Longannet project could not be which has drawn together around 40 members from the made to work within the budgetary framework, but we industry to be directly involved in delivering CCS in the are all equally committed to taking the issues forward, United Kingdom, together with representatives from to ensure that the United Kingdom is one of the most the international academic and non-governmental attractive places in the world in which to invest in CCS. organisation communities. The UK has unique facilities, which should put it at the There are many different ways to achieve the forefront of developing CCS, and Scotland is at the decarbonisation of the power sector. At this stage, it is forefront in the United Kingdom. The industry’s potential not possible to predict which will be the most cost-effective for Scotland, for existing industry and for new industries route or what exactly the power sector will look like in that want to support CCS and to provide part of the 2030. Nevertheless, we can use economic models to supply chain is extremely comprehensive. produce projections, using the best evidence currently The frustration was outlined before the general election available. Analysis undertaken for the carbon plan of by Paddy Tipping, then the Member of Parliament for the Department of Energy and Climate Change suggests Sherwood and a member of the Select Committee on that around 40 to 70 GW of new low-carbon electricity Energy and Climate Change, who said it was a competition generating capacity will be needed by 2030, depending without end—the competition for CCS seems to have on demand and the mix of generation built. In response gone on for ever. Given that we must now proceed with to the point made by the hon. Member for Banff and new urgency on setting a new competition, it is not lost Buchan (Dr Whiteford), a strong continuing role for gas on any of us that we wasted the chance over a number is envisaged in that mix. of years to take the opportunity forward, and we must now do so with extra vigour. Ian Swales: The Minister mentioned economic modelling. Do the Government have any wider modelling that Thomas Docherty: Does the Minister share my takes into account the whole picture, not only carbon observation that part of the problem with the previous capture and the grants that might be required to get it competition was people’s apparent belief that it was a going, but—my earlier point—petroleum revenue tax case of the last bidder standing, rather than of having resulting from enhanced oil recovery? technology that worked? Can he ensure therefore that much more robust criteria are set down at the start, so Charles Hendry: My hon. Friend makes an interesting that everyone understands what the competition is? and valuable point. Our focus so far has been on how to advance the technology and to make it commercially Charles Hendry: My concern was always that the viable and on how to bring down the cost. Our focus competition was too narrowly focused. Given the therefore has been on the energy sector, but he is absolutely requirement for post-combustion technology, the interest right about a range of other benefits, not least in PRT 237WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 238WH or revenue that might come through enhanced oil recovery, Thomas Docherty: The Minister will recall that I which I will come back to, as well the supply-chain previously met him to discuss transmission charging. At opportunities, the wealth that that creates for the economy that time, we referred to the fact that fossil fuels that and the tax revenues that will come into play. come up and down are charged on their capacity rather than what goes to the grid. Will he set out briefly the Our analysis shows that CCS could contribute 10 GW Government’s thinking on that and how we can change of capacity to the UK electricity market by 2030 and up the system? to 40 GW by 2050. I want to be absolutely clear that we are not setting targets for separate technologies. The industry’s ambition for CCS, as set out by the Carbon Charles Hendry: The hon. Gentleman’s point is critical Capture and Storage Association strategy paper last to the whole Scottish electricity sector. The work is year, is significantly higher than in our modelling, seeking being taken forward by Ofgem through Project TransmiT, 20 to 30 GW by 2030. We would be happy with such which is considering the appropriate regime for charging deployment, provided that it is the most cost-effective when electricity is transmitted over long distances. It way to meet our decarbonisation targets—an issue raised will set out its thoughts during the next few weeks, and by my hon. Friend the Member for Warrington South that can be discussed in more detail. I am very encouraged (David Mowat). We must do three things to make that by the progress that I understand is being made to find possible: provide incentives for investment, bring down a formula that will work for those who are developing the costs of the technology and tackle barriers to projects north of the border and in other parts of the deployment. country. More detail will be available shortly, but it is critical to the development not just of CCS in Scotland, The key to delivering the investment that we need in but to the whole electricity generating sector north of the UK electricity sector is confidence, for both technology the border. developers and investors in the long-term future for We are putting in place a strong financial offer for their technology, and in the certainty of opportunity for early CCS projects, and it is one of the best offers those who want to take forward CCS and other low-carbon anywhere in the world. It includes the £1 billion that is technologies. That is why the Government are implementing available for the up-front capital costs of projects, the the biggest reforms to the electricity market for a generation, potential for low-carbon contracts for difference to to provide the certainty that investors require and to support operational costs and the potential for European create an industry for CCS, rather than only a few pilot new entrant reserve funding, which we fully support. projects. We are committed to reforming the electricity market to incentivise the deployment of low-carbon In response to the point made by the shadow Minister, generating capacity. the Chief Secretary to the Treasury has said that, realistically, because the programme is being put back, the money Electricity market reform is a game changer for CCS. that we had anticipated being spent in this spending The reforms that we have announced offer the prospect round is unlikely to be spent, and it cannot be spent in of a future market for CCS electricity that will drive the time scale originally intended. If Longannet had investment in commercial CCS plants. We are considering gone ahead, it could have started to be drawn down this reforms that offer a range of benefits: longer-term year and certainly into 2013. With new projects coming contracts to provide stable financial incentives; support through, that will happen at the very end of this spending for early CCS projects, with contracts designed to recognise round and primarily into the next one. However, there is the associated uncertainties; an emissions performance a clear commitment, and the £1 billion remains. standard set at the equivalent of 450 grams of carbon In response to the point made by the hon. Member dioxide per kWh; and a carbon price floor that will for Banff and Buchan, good progress is also being made further incentivise investment in low-carbon generation. on finding additional sources of funding to bring into With such incentives in place, the deployment rate for the process. Discussion is taking place with sovereign CCS will be dependent on the costs of the technology wealth funds overseas to trap their investment into this and how they stack up against nuclear and renewables. area. We are seeing a greater appetite from industrial If CCS is to be competitive with other low-carbon investors to put in their own funding, instead of the technologies, we and the industry must work together Government providing funding. Projects involving enhanced to understand the costs and how they can be reduced. oil recovery might also make a significant financial There are two elements: technical discovery, through contribution. both research and development and learning by doing, and reducing the perceived risk of investing in a new Tom Greatrex: I am grateful to the Minister for his technology, which leads to higher premiums for investment. partial answer to one of my questions. May I press him We are tackling these issues in two main ways: through on how much of that £1 billion will be available during our £125 million research and development programme, the current CSR period and the current Parliament if which will continue to provide support for projects such demand is present and whether the projects are advanced as the UK’s first carbon capture pilot at Ferrybridge, enough for the money to be available to spend? How which was opened by the Secretary of State for Energy much of that £1 billion could be spent on CCS during and Climate Change last year; and through our new this time, or has it been subsumed into a wider infrastructure CCS delivery programme, which will support larger-scale pot? projects, delivering learning by doing, moving the technology forward and reducing risk premiums. The programme Charles Hendry: Certainly, the funding that was assumed will focus on achieving the overall outcome of cost- would be spent on CCS in the middle of this spending competitive, low-carbon electricity from fossil fuel power round and that will not now be spent and cannot be stations in the 2020s, thus achieving exactly what we spent is being made available to other infrastructure want, which is a long-term industry in the sector. projects. I am sure that the hon. Gentleman welcomes 239WH Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland)17 JANUARY 2012 Carbon Capture/Storage (Scotland) 240WH

[Charles Hendry] through the new competition, but it is not the only one. Other projects are viable and would have greater scope that, because it will help to drive forward our economic for accessing the new entrant reserve fund, but until we recovery. Until we have seen the scale and type of the have seen their scope and the collaboration and co-operation projects and the extent to which they will co-operate between different industrial players, it is hard to come and collaborate, we cannot set out exactly what the to a final decision. However, I give the hon. Lady the funding will be. Some of them will access the new commitment that we have a real desire to take the entrant reserve fund; some will be more dependent on a competition forward much more rapidly than the previous predictable income stream through the contracts for competition, and during the next few weeks, we will difference; and some will need more up-front funding. provide the details. Until we know exactly what the projects will be, we We had an industry day in December, and during the cannot say exactly how they need to be financed. I next month we will have a further industry day to understand why the hon. Gentleman wants clarity now, provide more detail on how the competition will work. but until we understand the nature of the front-runner We will then open up the competition shortly afterwards projects, we cannot say with certainty exactly how that with a tight time scale to encourage firms to come back. funding should come forward. Having lost time, we want to make up for that and to see the full range of projects that can benefit from funding Tom Greatrex: I am grateful to the Minister for his and find out how we can take that forward. response. How much money would be available if those projects were advanced to a stage where they would be Gordon Banks: While the Minister is winding up, will considered to be appropriate for that funding? How he respond to a point that I made that fits in with the much of that funding would be available for projects in one that he is making about new competition and this comprehensive spending review period if they were external funding? What discussions has he had with the in that position? Would the figure be up to £500 million, Scottish Government about them playing a financial £200 million or £300 million? How much would be role? Did the First Minister approach the Minister’s available from that £1 billion during this CSR period if Department on Longannet or any future projects? the projects had the applicable framework for that money? Charles Hendry: I was not remotely close to winding up until I took so many interventions, but I must now Charles Hendry: The hon. Gentleman is tempting me do so swiftly. On Longannet, the Scottish Government to go out of line, but I am reluctant to pursue that did not offer funding but, to be fair, they were not asked approach. Until we understand the nature of the projects, for funding. The project is seen to be a UK energy I cannot explain to him how they will be funded. They policy with funding from the UK Exchequer. We had will all have a different funding requirement for longer-term constructive discussions with the Scottish Government running costs or up-front capital, which may come from ahead of it. I think that we all share the disappointment one or two sources. We want to make it clear that we at the reaction, and perhaps the lesson is not to announce want projects to try to find other investors to enter the decisions just before the Scottish National party’s annual process. There will inevitably be a process of discovery conference. We must try to move forward in a way that and of trying to find out exactly what the best projects takes such issues out of politics. The gain from what can are, but we have made it absolutely clear that that be achieved to the United Kingdom is so substantial £1 billion remains available. The hon. Gentleman that we all need to pull together and to work together. understands that the time scale has been moved backwards The hon. Gentleman said that the decision on Longannet because of the decision on Longannet, but the £1 billion did not send out the right message, but it was the only remains ring-fenced. decision we could have made, because at the end of the day there was so much difference between what it was Dr Whiteford: I appreciate the Minister’s candour in going to cost and what was available. We want to take outlining how he is trying to find alternative sources of the technology forward, but we cannot do so at any funding, but Shell and Scottish and Southern Energy price. Even if funding had been available from the Scottish hope to begin a full-scale field study of the Peterhead Government, it could not have made up the difference project in the second half of this year. They have made to enable the project to go ahead. it clear that they will need funding in years 2 and 3, and Much more work needs to be done, and we are taking it would be helpful if the Minister indicated what the it forward urgently on regulatory reform, storage, the funding prospects were for that time scale. supply chain, transport and storage infrastructure and planning. In England, we can certainly make it clear Charles Hendry: The hon. Lady makes exactly the through national policy statements and the infrastructure point that I am keen to focus on: there are investors who planning commission that that process will work much might want to come into the project—international more smoothly and without the time delays about which investors who want to be part of the early development people have expressed concern, although planning in of this game-changing technology because of its global Scotland is a matter for the Scottish Government. More potential. We are encouraging them to try to talk to details will come forward very shortly— other potential investors, and we are looking at a range of projects. We are discussing one that could come Mr George Howarth (in the Chair): Order. 241WH 17 JANUARY 2012 Music Venues (Disabled Access) 242WH

Music Venues (Disabled Access) for the enforcement of existing legislation, and I shall address those points in turn. There is a strong commercial argument for venues to adopt the Attitude is Everything 12.30 pm charter of best practice. Charter venues and festivals, Matthew Hancock (West Suffolk) (Con): It is a pleasure such as the Latitude festival in Suffolk which I highly to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Howarth, and I recommend, and local authorities that follow the charter’s am glad that the Minister responsible for culture, principles, such as Kent county council and Tower communications and creative industries is able to attend Hamlets, vouch for the scheme and demonstrate the the debate. benefits of good access. Some of the most powerful advocates for improving access are venues and festivals I am delighted to have secured this debate on access that have already improved access and seen the improvement to live music for deaf and disabled people both because in business that followed. it is an issue close to my heart, and because I believe that there is a strong and principled business case for the proposals that I shall set out. I can personally attest Dame Anne Begg (Aberdeen South) (Lab): I would to the importance of this subject, and to the difference not have been aware of this debate had I not attended that equal access for disabled people makes to those the previous discussion, and I am pleased that the hon. passionate about music. My involvement in this issue is Gentleman has raised the issue because it is obviously due to a close friend of mine, Dom Pardey, who had a something close to my heart. He is absolutely right love of life and of music but who without warning at about the business case. Disabled people do not go to the age of 28 suffered a serious stroke and is now music festivals or the theatre on their own; they go with confined to a wheelchair. Although life became more friends or in groups of friends, and by barring one difficult, his passion for music has never wavered. It is member of the group, venues are often effectively barring what keeps him going, and I regularly travel with him everybody in it. That is why there is a good economic and take him to music venues, and comedy or theatre argument for making all venues fully wheelchair accessible. productions, along with a wide network of friends. He is one representative of many people across the country Matthew Hancock: I am extremely grateful for that whose passion for music is their reason to live. From intervention; the hon. Lady has taken a page of my that experience, I know what a difference good access speech by expressing that point more strongly than I can make. It is not only about ramps but about toilet could have done. The annual spending power of deaf facilities and hearing loops, and just one step can make and disabled customers is estimated at around £80 billion the difference between an inspirational event watched per year—a serious market. For example, estimates by somebody in a wheelchair, and a sad disappointment. suggest that hearing loss currently affects more than I am proud to be patron of the charity Attitude is 10 million people in the UK. That is about one in six of Everything, which exists to improve the accessibility of the population, and rising. music venues for deaf and disabled people. It began as an idea by Suzanne Ball 20 years ago. She was attending Mike Weatherley (Hove) (Con): I congratulate my a major festival and almost died in the crowd because of hon. Friend on securing this worthy debate. He mentions the pressure on the disabled listeners who were sitting at larger music festivals, but does he agree that it is equally the front. Attitude is Everything became a pilot project important to have the access that he describes in some in September 2000 in direct response to deaf and disabled of the smaller venues? Is he aware of my “Rock the people’s calls for fair treatment at music venues, clubs House” competition that asks people to nominate their and festivals, and it set out to address the music industry’s favourite live venue in their constituencies? We would apparent lack of awareness about its responsibilities, encourage all disadvantaged groups to nominate their obligations and duties under disability discrimination favourite pub and so on. legislation. Last December, Attitude is Everything released a Matthew Hancock: I certainly join my hon. Friend in report entitled “State of Access”, which I launched in encouraging disabled groups and disabled music lovers— Portcullis house. It is the first piece of systematic research whether in a group or not—to nominate their favourite into access to live music for disabled people, and it live venue, and I hope that his work in live music will examines approaches to access across the industry. The take into account improved access for disabled people. report was compiled by 100 deaf and disabled music Given his interest in this area, I am grateful that he is lovers who acted as mystery shoppers, just as a food attending the debate today. critic may act in a restaurant. Those people are directly About 2 million people in the UK use hearing aids, affected by issues of access, and their extensive input which is a huge potential customer base. In a major made the report valuable and powerful. I would like survey by Action on Hearing Loss, more than two fifths publicly to thank all the mystery shoppers who took of respondents said that they would go out of their way part in that exercise and volunteered their time to to visit a shop or service with a hearing loop, and ensure that the report was so strong. The report examines almost three quarters said that deaf-aware staff would views and approaches to access across the live music make them more likely to use a particular service. The industry, promotes best practice, and suggests solutions potential is there, but all too often loops are not turned to improve the current situation. I thoroughly recommend on or do not function properly. It is critical to be both it to any hon. Members who are interested in improving aware of the issue and to put the technology in place. access for disabled people. I do not want to pretend that things are not moving The research carried out by Attitude is Everything in the right direction. For example, over the past few led to two key recommendations. The first looks at the years, the number of disabled people attending the business case for taking action while the second argues Reading and Leeds festivals increased by 25% each 243WH Music Venues (Disabled Access)17 JANUARY 2012 Music Venues (Disabled Access) 244WH

[Matthew Hancock] The list of venues and festivals that support the proposals is long and growing. Make no mistake: there year, demonstrating the impact of Attitude is Everything has been progress. I am delighted to say that the festival and other such groups. I also pay tribute to Festival at which Suzanne nearly died 20 years ago now has a Republic which is involved in and enthusiastic about regular clientele of more than 700 disabled customers, the agenda. an accessible campsite and viewing platforms at nearly We have all seen the photographs that were taken at all the stages. That is good progress, but there is much the Glastonbury festival last summer in the pouring more to do. We should do all that we reasonably can to rain, of people signing on stage in order to ensure that ensure that being disabled does not mean that one has deaf people at the festival could fully participate in to live a life less rich, less varied or less full. Music is a what was going on. Once Glastonbury began to improve central part of our shared cultural experience, and its access facilities, attendance by disabled customers nothing compares to the live performance. For some, it increased threefold in three years. is a lifeline. It should, wherever this is realistically possible, be accessible to all. The Sage Gateshead, a venue that reached the gold level of the charter, said about its experience: If adopted, the proposals would make an immense difference to the lives of deaf and disabled music lovers. “We have numerous customers who specifically visit our venue, It is vital that we move towards a situation in which regularly…because of its excellent access. Many of them bring their families who appreciate a stress free outing.” good disabled access is the norm, not the exception. Such a goal is morally right, legally required already I know very well what a stress-free outing feels like and and commercially viable. This debate is a small step on how different it is from an outing that is not stress free. the road to achieving that ambition. I look forward very The success that I have described can be repeated at much to hearing what the Minister has to say in response. large and small venues throughout the industry. The truth is that doing that does not have to be very expensive. 12.44 pm The report shows that progress can be made in three key The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, areas. First, the cheapest and easiest adjustment is Olympics, Media and Sport (Mr Edward Vaizey): It simply providing information—information on how people is a great honour to appear under your chairmanship, can access the venue, where they can park and so on. Mr Howarth. I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member Detailed information provided in advance on the internet for West Suffolk (Matthew Hancock) on calling for the can allow people to make informed decisions and know debate. He has already asked me about this issue during before they arrive at a venue exactly how they can get questions in the House. This cause has no better advocate the most out of their visit. than him, because he comes to it with a genuine passion, having been engaged with the issue for many years The second adjustment, which is also cheap, is to before he came into the House. He also brings his improve staff understanding. It is highlighted again and considerable skills to bear to highlight the campaign. again that simply understanding the needs of people who are in wheelchairs or have other disabilities improves I thank the hon. Members who have made a contribution access and the experience of disabled people and their to the debate. My hon. Friend the Member for Hove friends and families who go with them to the venues. (Mike Weatherley) has made the cause of music one of his passions in the House and has advanced it very The third issue is small changes to infrastructure—for strongly, particularly with his highly successful “Rock instance, step-free access and the induction loops that I the House” campaign. I noted his intervention calling have already talked about. Those often simple measures for disabled users to nominate their favourite live venue. are at the heart of the charter of best practice. I encourage Perhaps I may make a suggestion in return—that the all venues to sign up to the charter. I hope that the judging criteria for the best live venue could include charter will become the minimum standard for access accessibility criteria, because that would certainly increase and that in time it can be expanded to include things awareness of this important aspect of the debate. such as standards for disabled toilets and disabled hotel The hon. Member for Aberdeen South (Dame Anne rooms. Begg), who needs no introduction because she has long The report’s second recommendation is a call for been campaigning on these important issues, made a enforcement of existing legislation. Businesses have an crucial point that we must all take on board: if we bar obligation under law to make reasonable adjustments to one disabled user, we in effect bar many more—those help disabled people to access their goods, facilities and who would be accompanying the disabled user to the services. Unfortunately, access requirements are seldom venue. What has emerged from the debate is that, if a enforced and often only under the heavy hand of the venue provides the appropriate facilities for disabled courts when a disabled person sues a venue under users, it will end up having no more loyal customers disability discrimination legislation. I am here today to than those people, who come not only to enjoy the call not for new legislation, but merely for the enforcement music, but to enjoy as hassle-free an experience as of what is already in place. possible. All those points apply. One may say that Supportive music venues, key festival organisers, local providing those facilities is simply the right thing to do, authorities and licensing officers should work together, but one may also appeal to self-interest. Music venues with organisations such as Attitude is Everything, to up and down the country should realise that making make access normally a condition for entertainment themselves more accessible is not a burden to be complied licences. Scotland made such a change last October, and with, but a huge opportunity to gain a loyal following I hope that the Minister can consider it today. It would of fans. be an ideal tool with which to ensure that, incrementally, My hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk talked we move towards improved standards throughout the about the charity Attitude is Everything. The charity industry, with all the benefits that that could bring. is lucky to have such a formidable advocate, and he is 245WH Music Venues (Disabled Access)17 JANUARY 2012 Music Venues (Disabled Access) 246WH lucky to have found a stand-out charity such as Attitude thinking about cinemas. We have just published a film is Everything, which has campaigned for so long on policy review consultation, which does not cover disability these important issues. As he rightly pointed out, the access issues, but when the Government respond to it in campaign began in September 2000, and Attitude is the middle of March, we will address those issues. Everything now has a comprehensive programme of activity. That includes the charter of best practice, My hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk gave a which has already been mentioned and involves working comprehensive summary of Attitude is Everything’s with live venues, festivals, clubs and promoters. It includes report. He mentioned the Sage Gateshead, an organisation Club Attitude, showcasing deaf, disabled and non-disabled I have got to know extremely well over the years. It is musicians in fully accessible venues. It includes the fantastically well led by Anthony Sargent, and it is a disabled people stewarding programme, which involves great example of a national venue with strong support helping festivals and other events to include deaf and from a local authority. It is excellent in a whole range of disabled people as stewards; running information tents; different areas, but I am delighted that it is also a and creating employment for deaf and disabled people. stand-out venue in terms of providing access to people It includes disability equality training, access audits and with disabilities. Likewise, it was good to read that consultancy; that involves creating practice strategies KOKO, a commercial venue, has picked up silver status for venues to tackle access issues. Of course, it also for accessibility. The vast majority of UK music venues includes advocacy and campaigning. are privately run, and it is important to build a good dialogue with such organisations. I am delighted that Attitude is Everything receives funding via the Arts Council and, through its new I join everyone in the Chamber in congratulating national portfolio funding programme, has received an Attitude is Everything on an excellent report. Now, of increase to some £170,000 a year from this financial course, comes the difficult bit, when I have to respond year, starting in April. We enjoy—well, we do not enjoy to my hon. Friend’s call for action. He mentioned the but when it comes to media attention we often focus on recommendations at the end of the report, and specifically cuts and restrictions in funding or perhaps some of the the one that disabled access become a condition of more high-profile organisations that the Arts Council music venues receiving entertainment licences. As he funds. It is worth the media focusing on the fact that the will be aware, we have recently consulted on our plans Arts Council supports important organisations such as to deregulate licensing, and that process, which is very Attitude is Everything. The reason I describe it as a much in line with the coalition Government’s aim of stand-out charity is that its attitude is entirely right. It is reducing red tape and, therefore, costs, aims to make it an attitude of encouragement, rather than lambasting, much easier for venues of all shapes and sizes to put on and of providing solutions, rather than simply highlighting live music, theatre and dance events. problems. The good thing about deregulation is that more venues will provide live music, but the unintended consequence Dame Anne Begg: Perhaps the worst venues that exist might be that more venues are under scrutiny for not are not music venues, but comedy venues. They always providing access for people with disabilities. The measures seem to be in the basement for some reason. The will cover community halls, amateur theatres, circuses Minister might want to encourage comedy venues in and other arts organisations that have found the licensing particular to take up the issue with regard to their requirements expensive and restrictive. Of course, other accessibility, because they are still absolutely appalling. venues, such as schools and village halls, which are used regularly by fundraisers, face the same requirements as Mr Vaizey: At the end of the debate, I was going to commercial operators. Low-risk community events have sum up some of the things I have learned in preparing been cancelled because of the onerous burden of licensing for it. One thing I would like to take from the debate is requirements, and we are seeking to put an end to that the opportunity not only to meet properly with Attitude so that schools and community groups in the third is Everything, but, potentially, to expand the Department’s sector have more opportunities to put on such events. work on leading the debate on these issues. That will increase revenues and the money raised for At the moment, the Department has an e-inclusion good causes. accessibility forum, which I have been closely involved with since I became a Minister. The forum works with Obviously, we start with the attitude that we are not charities to ensure that people in a digital age have keen to place further conditions on venues that wish to access to the internet and to phone technology, but I put on events. I do not simply want to say no to my hon. have been struck by the lack of engagement from business Friend, so let me put the Government’s perspective. As and telecoms companies, which is unbelievably frustrating. he said, access issues are covered by different legislation. In that respect, we would, for example, like to have The Equality Act 2010 ensures that organisations that video technology that enables deaf people to use sign provide goods, facilities and services are required to language, and I have told all the telecoms operators, make a “reasonable adjustment” where a disabled person “Please come to me with a cost-effective solution,” but would be at a “substantial disadvantage” to a person they have not done that. Eventually, of course, I will who is not disabled in carrying out a particular job have to regulate through Ofcom to make them do that, or—this is relevant to today’s debate—in accessing a but it would be so much simpler if they came to me and particular service. did it. The idea of a “reasonable adjustment” is important, Similarly, if we bring a group of disabled charities because it makes the judgment dependent on the size of together, we can work to move this agenda forward in the organisation and the resources available to it. I am respect of not only live music venues, but comedy clubs, delighted that a number of venues offer services such as as the hon. Lady said. During the debate, I was also multiple hearing induction loop systems, but I am not 247WH Music Venues (Disabled Access)17 JANUARY 2012 Music Venues (Disabled Access) 248WH

[Mr Vaizey] To return to my point about Attitude is Everything being a stand-out charity, one of the good things it sure everyone would agree that it is fair that every venue does, besides providing encouragement, is to provide of every kind, including small village halls, should have training so that people do not have an excuse for not to offer such things as a matter of course. understanding what the law requires of them. That We are confident that the 2010 Act, which subsumed would be one subject for discussion in relation to how the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, provides reasonable we increase training opportunities for venues and how assurance for disabled attendees. My hon. Friend mentioned we work with the music industry and some of the big the change made in Scotland, and I will take away a players to ensure that adequate training programmes commitment to examine it and to write to the Under- are in place for their staff and that there is an adequate Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and understanding at all levels of the requirements of the Sport, my hon. Friend the Member for Weston-super-Mare 2010 Act. (John Penrose), who is responsible for licensing issues, Earlier, I picked up on the point made by the hon. to ask whether it should be a factor in his deliberations. Member for Aberdeen South about the economic self- interest of making changes to attract more customers Matthew Hancock: Nobody would want venues to and, more importantly, more loyal customers. The music close or not to offer music as a result of our pursuing industry faces radical changes in a digital age, and it is this agenda. However, the question is not whether the having to change its business model for selling music, law is in place, which it is, as my hon. Friend says, but but it is also having to look at live music as a potentially whether there is enforcement. Nobody wants the law to important income stream for the future. That is an exist, but to be unenforced. In Scotland, the live question important point. is about the improved enforcement of whatever legislation Time is running out, and I want to end by saying that is in place. In that respect, the reasonableness test is the debate is very timely, because this is the year of the important. If we have a rule, however, it is important Olympics and, more importantly, the Paralympics. I can that we make sure it is enforced. assure my hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk that the London 2012 festival, the cultural festival that Mr Vaizey: I certainly agree with my hon. Friend. will run alongside the Olympics, takes these issues very Again, to a certain extent, and perhaps unintentionally, seriously. It is working with all its partners to ensure he issues a challenge to different parts of the Government that disability access is at the forefront of their minds. to join up. It is worth my taking away the tone of the Some redevelopment will be undertaken on the south debate and communicating with the Under-Secretary of bank, and although its primary purpose is to redevelop State for Work and Pensions, my hon. Friend the Member the site, disability access will be an additional benefit. for Basingstoke (Maria Miller), who has responsibility We also have a number of programmes in the cultural for the disabled, about the measures the Government Olympiad. For example, Film Nation: Shorts actively are taking on enforcement across the board under the targets disabled film makers. 2010 Act. If we have a meeting with a group of disabled This has been a good and useful debate, and I hope I charities to discuss what is happening on the ground, we can take forward some of the issues that have been can certainly talk about enforcement. raised. 249WH 17 JANUARY 2012 Parking (Westminster) 250WH

Parking (Westminster) important element of the proposals being driven by the desire to raise more money in times of financial constraint. 12.59 pm Would the hon. Lady prefer a much more transparent approach, not just in Westminster but across local Ms Karen Buck (Westminster North) (Lab): I am government, which would allow an open debate about grateful for the opportunity to raise in Parliament the precisely those problems—the issue of going down the issue of Westminster council’s parking controls, and route of increased parking costs, which would affect particularly the most recent round of proposals, which everyone in the vicinity, or potential cuts in adult and have generated more controversy than almost any local child services, which are the sorts of things she and I government matter in recent years. Although I am know all too well affect many providers in the City of conscious that much of what is proposed and under Westminster today? discussion relates to the west end—it is good to see the hon. Member for Cities of London and Westminster Ms Buck: There are several issues there, and I shall (Mark Field) here today—I make no apology for return to one or two of them, but, yes, we need a introducing the debate. I have no wish to step on the broader debate about the role of charging income, hon. Gentleman’s toes, but Westminster council’s parking property taxation and other forms of income generation policies have an impact far wider than that specific local by local government. There is no question but that dimension. charging has a role to play; but, as the Minister will no There are two reasons for that: one—and this is one doubt confirm, there are particular constraints on the of the themes on which I look forward to the Minister’s way parking income can be used for revenue generation. response—is that the issue of parking income, and how The hon. Member for Cities of London and Westminster it is generated and distributed, has a wider context in has confirmed what the Secretary of State for Transport relation to the agenda of revenue-raising and local said earlier about the suspicion that the charges are taxation. Therefore, everyone in the local authority of being used for revenue generation, rather than parking the London borough of Westminster has a legitimate and traffic management. That is not what parking revenue interest in how that income is generated and used. is supposed to be about. Indeed, the wider issues of congestion, displacement and road management are for everyone in the community. Mark Field: I think that a perfectly legitimate case Secondly, what happens to the economy of central was made for traffic management, and concerns about London is a legitimate matter of concern for us all, congestion. However, had there not been the big financial since millions of Londoners are affected in their capacity constraints, there might not have been such a desire to as employees, workers, shoppers, business men and proceed so quickly. The trouble was, the legislation is so women, worshippers and people who enjoy the cultural prescriptive that to make the case on financial grounds and recreational opportunities that central London offers. would have killed it off at the outset. Therefore, much It is in that context that the Westminster parking proposals more emphasis was placed on the issue of congestion. have generated such an exceptional level of media interest, particularly, but by no means exclusively, in the Evening Standard. The Evening Standard has, I think, grasped Ms Buck: The hon. Gentleman is almost making my what the majority party on Westminster council seems argument for me. We should have a debate about charging not to have grasped—that Westminster’s financial problems income, which could include the proper role of parking cannot be solved by any means to hand, without a income in a local authority’s tax base. That would be proper recognition of the impact on the wider economy fine; but within the present legal constraints we are of London. where we are, and however we approach the matter we need a mature, transparent and honest debate about To put my cards on the table, I entirely accept that services and income. That has been spectacularly missing. parking income is a legitimate source of revenue-raising As I have said, the political fallout from what has for local government, particularly given the severe happened has been catastrophic for Westminster council. constraints on the raising of income by other means, Whether or not the current leader has, as I believe, been and the critical importance of maintaining services for the first victim of that miscalculation—it remains to be residents. However, the law is clear on the issue, and the seen whether he will be the last—a great deal of collateral law, common sense and political calculation all demand damage has none the less been done to the council. honesty and transparency in the process, as well as that the charges should be fair and proportionate. There has To recap on the facts, Westminster council’s plans to not been adequate honesty and transparency about ban free evening and Sunday parking on single yellow Westminster council’s financial pressures, and councillors lines in the west end for more than 8,400 cars have have been found out. They have not told it straight to provoked an unprecedented coalition of opposition. local people, but instead have given the impression that They have united the churches and casinos and the they have discovered the philosopher’s stone—a way to trade unions and big business. They have brought together provide comprehensive, quality services without an adequate local residents, visitors to the west end, and those who tax base. earn their living there, and united all the major political parties. Indeed, Westminster council has achieved the Mark Field (Cities of London and Westminster) (Con): near impossible—it has found the one thing that Boris The hon. Lady recognises, I think, the fact that there Johnson, Brian Paddick and Ken Livingstone all agree were considerable legal constraints on the making of on. the proposed—now shelved—parking changes on the The council said that the new charges and the single grounds of the finances that were required. There was a yellow line parking ban are designed to increase the big campaign to make a case, which I think was legitimate, turnover of cars parking in the area, and to make it about congestion; but no one was fooled about an easier for those driving into the heart of London to find 251WH Parking (Westminster)17 JANUARY 2012 Parking (Westminster) 252WH

[Ms Buck] continue to put at risk some 14.5% of total theatre income, or approximately £72 million a year. a parking space; but everyone knows that the real Baroness Valentine, the chief executive of the business reason is to raise the expected £7 million a year that the group London First, said: charges will raise for a council whose cash reserves have fallen by £60 million in the past two years, as Government “At a time when the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors are all suffering from the protracted slowdown and reduced consumer cuts have bitten and reduced its room for manoeuvre. confidence and spending, introducing measures that will further As Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, has said: discourage customers from coming into central London seems “It’s completely mad what Westminster are doing. It will be perverse. Westminster’s businesses should not be the unwilling damaging to business. I’m afraid, as far as I understand the guinea pigs in an experiment of which the outcome could be matter, there is a financial issue here for Westminster. In other highly damaging to their viability.” words, they need the revenue.” Mary Portas, appointed by the Government as a high As I have mentioned, the Secretary of State for Transport street adviser, as well as being a local resident, said: has said—and I should be interested to have the Minister’s “Parking is just one of the issues that comes up time and time clarification of this— again. It’s one of the biggest things that stops flow, and for “I’m sure when Westminster thought about what they were retailers and restaurants it stops their trade. This is just sheer going to do with those parking charges they had a sense they madness”. might be able to put some extra money in their coffers that they Does the Minister agree with the Prime Minister’s high could probably use on public services”. street adviser? As I understand that quotation, the Transport Secretary There are of course a great many individuals, too, clearly accepts that the local authority was acting at who are low-income employees working in the night-time least at the borders, and possibly beyond the borders, of economy and who have raised concerns about the impact legality. Does the Minister agree with the Mayor of on them at a time when night transport is by no means London and the Transport Secretary about Westminster’s always available. That raises real concerns about safety, true motives, and, in view of that, what is the Department’s particularly for women travelling at 3 or 4 o’clock in the line on how to respond, and on what constraints there morning. should be on the proper use of parking revenue? In addition to the impact on business, the Minister will know that some 15,000 people attend churches of Mark Field: I confess I look forward to the fulsome all denominations on a Sunday in Westminster, many of praise that the hon. Lady will give to the words of the whose families used to live in the west end. They see it Mayor of London in the next 107 days, in the run-up to as part of the family tradition to worship in a west end the mayoral election. I do not think there is any suggestion church. Major Ray Brown of the Salvation Army in of illegality. Surely the primary purpose of the changes Oxford street made the case in clear and unambiguous was related to traffic management and congestion, but terms. He said that the hon. Lady and the Transport Secretary are right to suggest that there was also a secondary purpose. That “Westminster Council have taken a very short-sighted decision to seriously damage hundreds of years of church community action would not make the proposals illegal or illegitimate, but and spiritual activity for the sake of a quick financial gain. For the public at large were not going to be fooled, and they some members and volunteers at The Salvation Army, this means felt that the wool was being pulled over their eyes when having to face the terrible decision of having to leave the church the latter priority was denied entirely. they have been involved in all their lives”. Does the Minister believe that curtailing the church’s Ms Buck: I will let that pass; those are the hon. community action is in line with the Prime Minister’s Gentleman’s views. big society vision? In addition to the question about the proper role of These new charges were originally due to be introduced parking income as a source of revenue, the issue that in early December 2011, just weeks before Christmas, has probably generated the greatest controversy is the but thanks to pressure from west end retailers and risk that the parking charges would present to the Labour councillors, Westminster reluctantly agreed to central London economy.The independent City forecaster, postpone implementation until January. Meanwhile, west the Centre for Economics and Business Research, has end restaurateurs, retailers, residents and churches came estimated that the parking charges would cost the west together to fund legal action against the council. On end £800 million a year and threaten more than 5,000 14 December, the High Court ordered Westminster jobs. It is suggested that 9% of the £9.2 billion central council to halt plans to introduce west end parking London night-time and Sunday economy could disappear charges until the judicial review application is heard in as customers and workers are put off by the new charges. March. In a scathing decision, Mr Justice Collins highlighted The research found that the biggest losses of turnover “substantial damage to businesses and churches” would be felt by restaurants, bars, pubs and cafes at £330 million, followed by theatres, cinemas, casinos and and “far too limited” consultation as reasons why the other places of entertainment at £314 million, and then council should not be allowed to introduce the new retailers at £145 million. Recent research by the Society charges until the judicial review has been heard. of London Theatre revealed that 16% of London Sensing it was losing the argument, Westminster council theatregoers used cars to visit the theatre. For those leader Colin Barrow promised to listen more in the over 55, it was more than 20%, with the reasons being future and to delay implementation of the new charges more about access and security than the availability of until after the 2012 Olympics and the diamond jubilee public transport. Some 90% of London’s theatre ticket celebrations. However, just nine days later, at 3.30 pm revenue was generated within the borough of Westminster. on 23 December, Councillor Barrow stopped listening Westminster’s proposals would still, although delayed, and the council announced that it would be axing 253WH Parking (Westminster)17 JANUARY 2012 Parking (Westminster) 254WH

1,200 single yellow line parking spaces under the guise 1.17 pm of helping the elderly and the disabled cross the road more easily. Of course, everybody supports double yellow The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport lines at dropped kerbs in order to make crossing the (Mike Penning): It is a pleasure to serve under your road safer for the disabled, the elderly and parents, but chairmanship this afternoon, Mr Howarth. I apologise Westminster council’s proposals go way beyond just that the Minister responsible for local government is protecting dropped kerbs from parked cars. They were not here. I am stepping in on his behalf. He is in used as an excuse to remove five miles of safe evening Newcastle, although I know that he would have liked to parking from the west end, and were a deliberate attempt have been at this debate. Some of the questions asked to get round the High Court ban on implementing by the hon. Member for Westminster North (Ms Buck) plans to remove more than 8,400 free parking spaces on may need to be dealt with by letter. single yellow lines. As the hon. Lady knows as a former Under-Secretary of State for Transport, it would be wrong and improper Then, just last week, Westminster council dropped for me to get drawn into the decisions of the judicial another bombshell when it became clear that figures on review. I stress that some of the comments she made the number of parking spaces that would be lost through seemed to pre-empt what the judges at the judicial the council’s plans were not accurate. Originally we review will look into. I am pleased to see my hon. were given to understand that 1,700 yellow line parking Friend the Member for Cities of London and Westminster spaces would be lost through the council’s proposals, (Mark Field) in his place. when the real figure was actually more than 8,400. That is a 500% difference. The significance of this monumental Very unusually for me, I am going to read. I normally blunder is fundamental. The council had no idea how know my brief well enough not to need to do so. many parking spaces would be lost when it took the The Government are fully aware of the strength of decision in August 2011 to ban parking on single yellow feeling surrounding the proposed changes by Westminster lines in the evening and on Sundays. Nor did the council council. It is difficult not to be, given what is in the local have the correct figures when it consulted residents and press and on the local news. The strong views expressed, businesses before and after the decision. and the concerns raised by residents and businesses in Westminster, show just how important issues such as The leader of the Westminster Labour group, Councillor this are, not just for Westminster, but across the country Paul Dimoldenberg, has written to the council’s director as a whole. It is essential that local authorities do all of legal services to point out the obvious implications they can to get the balance right and to develop and of this admission. He said: maintain an effective parking and traffic management “At the time the Cabinet agreed the proposals in August 2011 strategy that serves the interests of all stakeholders in as Members were not provided with any information on the number fair and equitable a way as possible. of single yellow line parking spaces that would be lost. Cabinet There will be a little repetition, for which I apologise, members were therefore unable to give proper consideration to all the material facts. Members were not informed of a figure for lost but it is important that the Government set out their parking spaces until nearly 2 months later…The Council’s further position. Among other things, Westminster has to strive public consultation that ran up until early December 2011 did not to understand the needs of industry, shops, restaurants, provide any figures on the number of single yellow line parking clubs, theatres and churches, as the hon. Lady alluded places to be lost and the only figure in the public domain during to, as well as the needs of the employees, customers and the consultation period was the incorrect figure of 1,700 provided residents in the area affected. by the Council”.

Whatever happens next—it is hard to see how the Mark Field: It is also worth stressing, and this point proposed charges can survive the leadership contest perhaps relates to something that the hon. Lady said, that Councillor Barrow has unleashed—Westminster’s that the west end and the centre of London seem to problems are not over. Either the highest profile charging belong to more than just one or two constituencies. It is row in recent memory will lead to reinstatement, or a fair to say that relatively few of my constituents—my financial crisis looms, to be dealt with by a council residential constituents—wrote to me about this scheme weakened in trust and credibility. I look forward to the and of those who did a number were in favour of it. Minister’s response, but I believe that the policy disaster However, it is also the case that a lot of businesses, that has befallen Westminster has much wider ramifications particularly independent businesses, are implacably opposed for local government finance, and those need to be to the scheme. There are specific issues in Westminster addressed too. because of the nature of our local authority, which means that this scheme has become a higher-profile We all believe that parking and car use in inner cities issue and aspects of it would not necessarily be transferrable has to be controlled and managed, but any changes to other local authorities throughout the country; I with impacts and ramifications such as these need to be disagree with the hon. Lady that they would be transferrable. handled on the basis of accurate data, and with effective consultation. The changes need to take with them public trust and confidence. I am sorry to say that Westminster Mike Penning: My hon. Friend raises an important council has lost that trust and confidence, with major point. The character of this part of town—a town in implications for the wider economy, and is in danger of which I was born and brought up—is unique to the undermining this Government’s and future Governments’ country. However, I will come on to the issues relating more thoughtful approaches to traffic management and to parking and parking spaces, and revenues that are parking. If the council will not act effectively to get surplus to the cost of creating those parking spaces. itself out of the hole it has dug, I look to the Minister to They are important issues, and they were the issues that assure us that the Government will step in. the hon. Lady was referring to. 255WH Parking (Westminster)17 JANUARY 2012 Parking (Westminster) 256WH

[Mike Penning] As we know, Westminster council has now postponed its plans until beyond the Olympics and the jubilee Many people choose to travel by public transport, celebrations. The Government welcome that decision, but many others usually use their car or van. Also, but we will wait—I think everyone will wait—for the parking spaces are clearly limited, both on and off the judicial review to reach its own conclusions. It is up to street, and there is considerable demand for road space Westminster council—if we believe in localism, we must in one of the busiest areas not only in London but in the leave it to the council—to come forward and make its country. Without doubt, congestion—one of the areas decisions, based on the guidance that it has. covered in my portfolio—is a real problem. I can understand We appreciate Westminster council keeping Department the competing concerns that the local authority in for Transport Ministers fully informed, and council Westminster has to address. There are very difficult representatives have had several meetings and conversations issues that need to be addressed when developing with Ministers; I myself had a phone conversation appropriate parking strategies in such circumstances. yesterday with Westminster’s chief whip, Mr Caplan, The hon. Lady referred to the fact that Mary Portas about this debate. I understand that Westminster council produced a report for the Government on high streets, has agreed to use the intervening period to discuss its recommending that local areas should implement free policy and to continue to listen to the concerns of controlled parking schemes in their town centres wherever residents, visitors and businesses, who I am sure also possible. However, I am not certain that such a scheme want to find solutions to the ongoing pressures that the would work brilliantly within Westminster, for obvious hon. Lady alluded to in her speech. The key is achieving reasons. a sustainable economy for the residents and the businesses together, and that is something that we all want to The Portas review points out that the high street is in achieve. serious threat of decline. No matter where we look around the country we can see that, and Westminster is It would perhaps be useful if I provided some context no exception. Town centre shopping is affected by the and said where Westminster is in the legal framework; internet and out-of-town stores. The number of shops the hon. Lady referred to the legal framework. The in the country as a whole has gone down by 25,000 Department issues operational guidance to local authorities during the past 10 years, so it is not something that has on parking policy and enforcement. That guidance was just suddenly happened, and Opposition parties cannot revised in November 2010, and it supports and complements blame everything on the current Government; that decline the statutory guidance published under section 87 of has been going on for some considerable time. The case the Traffic Management Act 2004, to which local authorities that Mary Portas makes in her report is that a range of must have regard—I stress the word “must”. measures—not just parking measures—should be used Local authorities have long been responsible for to encourage people to use secondary and main high managing all on-street parking and some off-street parking, streets, and it is an absolutely important case. and their relevant powers were first laid out in the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. Section 16 of the Traffic However, as the hon. Lady said, the report by Mary Management Act 2004 imposes an explicit duty on Portas indicates the crucial role of parking in making local authorities when they are carrying out these functions an area vibrant, and I think that that is the biggest point to manage their network so as to reduce congestion and that we have heard today. The Government agrees with disruption, and to appoint a traffic manager. the report by Mary Portas on that. I am not saying whether the Government fully agree with the comments Following the provisions for authorities to manage that the hon. Lady said that Mary Portas had made, parking that are laid out in the Road Traffic Regulation because I have not actually seen those comments, but I Act 1984, the Road Traffic Act 1991 significantly changed am sure that Mary Portas is more than capable of the way that on-street parking restrictions are enforced. standing up for her own comments. So we are encouraging Before the 1991 Act, the police and traffic wardens were local authorities to look closely at how parking provision responsible for enforcement, and income from fixed and charges work. penalty notices specifically went to the Chancellor of the Exchequer. However, the police found that the The Government understand that these issues have a impact of parking enforcement on the resources of a massive effect. So, in January 2011 we amended the number of forces supported the idea that another agency national planning guidance to remove Whitehall restrictions should take responsibility for such enforcement. that imposed maximum numbers of parking places in The potential road safety and congestion implications new residential developments; to change a policy that of a lack of enforcement were unacceptable, so the inhibited competition between council areas, so that 1991 Act made it mandatory for London boroughs and one parking charge would be imposed and another optional for other local authorities to take on the civil would not, which related to in and out of town centre enforcement of non-endorsable parking contraventions; developments; to introduce a policy that parking in other words, parking fines where a driver does not enforcement should be proportionate, and I stress receive points on their licence. In London, boroughs proportionate; to remove the policy that encouraged were responsible for enforcement of such fines and councils to set car parking charges to discourage the use some other authorities also enforced such fines. The of cars; and to increase support for electric car power- legal framework for enforcement authorities is now charging infrastructure in parking areas. contained in part 6 of the Traffic Management Act 2004. The Government’s draft national planning policy Now you know, Mr Howarth, why I am reading it framework follows through on those changes by removing and not trying to do this from memory. the restrictions that impose maximum numbers of parking spaces in new non-residential developments. That will Mr George Howarth (in the Chair): Order. I think that also relieve pressure on on-street parking. the hon. Gentleman was referring to his notes. 257WH Parking (Westminster) 17 JANUARY 2012 258WH

Mike Penning: Correct, Mr Howarth. And noted. Noise Reduction (M54) The legislation clearly places the responsibility for managing and enforcing parking on local authorities, and it is a mandatory requirement in London, including 1.30 pm in Westminster. Gavin Williamson (South Staffordshire) (Con): It is a The Department for Transport supports local authorities pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Howarth. by issuing both statutory and operational guidance on I compliment the Under-Secretary of State for Transport, parking policy and enforcement. The guidance makes it my hon. Friend the Member for Hemel Hempstead clear that each local authority should have a clear idea (Mike Penning), on his management of the previous of what its parking policy is and what it intends to debate, and I hope that he feels a lot more comfortable achieve by having that policy. Then the local authority with this one, which is far more firmly within his brief. needs to make traffic regulation orders to put parking It is a great privilege to have secured this debate in arrangements in place, displaying appropriate traffic Westminster Hall, and I thank my hon. Friend the signs to show the public what the restrictions mean. Member for Harrogate and Knaresborough (Andrew The parking strategy needs to take account of planning Jones), who inspired me to request it, by pointing out policies and transport powers; the needs of the many what the Government could do to reduce the negative and various road users, businesses and residents in the impact of road noise in many constituencies, including area; the appropriate scale and type of provision that it mine. will undertake; the balance between short and long-term Often, when we talk about new developments such as provision; and the level of charges, which must be motorways and railways, people who object to them are formally addressed. accused of being nimbys—not in my back yard—and of On the issue of charges, I should add that both the not wanting the developments because they are not statutory and operational guidance make it clear that concerned about the national interest. However, the fact parking charges are a tool to manage the demand for is that they are often concerned because they are not parking and should not be used as a revenue-raising fully confident that the Government, of whatever political measure. I will return to that point in a few moments if I colour, will do all that they can to mitigate the effects of can. The Department also recommends that authorities noise from roads, railways or other major infrastructure should consult the public on parking policies as they projects. formulate or appraise them, before coming to a decision. Jeremy Lefroy (Stafford) (Con): I congratulate my What I think the hon. Member for Westminster North hon. Friend and neighbour on securing this debate. I was asking about earlier, and I think that my hon. completely agree with him, and I re-emphasise how Friend the Member for Cities of London and Westminster much the Government can do. In my constituency, the alluded to it too, is what happens if a council tries to resurfacing four to five years ago of the M6 between reduce congestion and address the parking issues—as junctions 12 and 13 greatly improved the lives of people set out in the guidance—and there is a surplus. In my living round and about who were plagued by the noise constituency, there is a surplus. We have looked very from the old surface. carefully at how we fix the charges, and there were lots of discussions about whether there should be a charge of £1, £1.50 or £1.75, and there were all the arguments Gavin Williamson: My hon. Friend is absolutely correct. about the change and so on. The figure ended up being, It is not that the Government are unable to act or say, £2, and then the surplus comes. incapable of doing anything to improve the lives of people who live close or adjacent to motorways; they I do not think that there is any doubt that Westminster can have an enormous effect and make enormous council knew—I think that it has been very open about improvements in people’s lives. it—that there would be a surplus and that that surplus would be used. However, it is quite specifically set out in One of the key reasons for requesting this debate was the regulations and the guidance how that money—the the fact that road noise had once again been highlighted surplus—should be used within the community. So I in my constituency, on the back of some very good and think what the Secretary of State for Transport was positive news: the announcement by Jaguar Land Rover alluding to in her comments was that there was a that it is to build a major new engine factory on the i54 knowledge that there would be a surplus, but the main South Staffordshire industrial estate. That is fantastic reason Westminster council was introducing this scheme news, because the new factory will bring many jobs and was to reduce congestion and to ensure that it is possible great prosperity, not just to my constituency, but to my for the local community, businesses and people— hon. Friend’s constituency of Stafford and many others right across the west midlands. However, to secure the Mr George Howarth (in the Chair): Order. We must development, our local authorities—South Staffordshire now move on to the next debate. district council and Staffordshire county council, working in conjunction with Wolverhampton city council—had to put money forward for a direct link between the i54 site and the M54. Any such major construction project will have an effect on local residents, and in this case the residents of Coven Heath village adjacent to the motorway are particularly affected. Residents of not just Coven Heath but neighbouring villages up and down the M54 have raised many concerns about the impact a Jaguar Land Rover plant will have, with increased traffic movement 259WH Noise Reduction (M54)17 JANUARY 2012 Noise Reduction (M54) 260WH

[Gavin Williamson] Gavin Williamson: My hon. Friend makes a valid point. Where motorways cut through urban areas or from heavy goods vehicles and from the many people pass close to communities, the Government should be who will visit the site every day. That has focused many duty bound to do everything within their power to people’s minds on the inadequacies of the M54 and on reduce the impact. If they wish to cultivate a positive the failure of many Governments in the past to take image of infrastructure improvements—that they need action to reduce the impact of noise on local communities. not have a detrimental effect on peoples lives—they I am not sure whether hon. Members have had the should take every step to ensure that the effects are pleasure of driving along the M54 regularly, but perhaps minimised at every level. I must confess that I would I can tell them a bit about it. The Minister will probably like the barriers, which my hon. Friend mentioned, to correct me if I make a mistake, but I believe that the be in place from the start of the M6 all the way past motorway was one of the first to use the construction Manchester, but I am unsure whether the Minister will method of concrete slabs. That was a revolutionary give so generously of sound barriers. Local communities idea, and it became incredibly fashionable in motorway often demand them, and the Government should always construction throughout the country, but unfortunately, do everything within their power to ensure that local as with many things that were fashionable in the 1970s, communities get them. I particularly ask the Minister to with the benefit of hindsight, the idea was not such a ensure that such measures are put in place for junction 2 good one. Concrete construction causes excessive road and the flyover, along with noise-reducing or whisper noise, much more than the tarmacadam system used on tarmac. many motorways, and the problem has been recognised James Wharton (Stockton South) (Con): I congratulate often, including by the 1994 royal commission and the my hon. Friend on securing this debate, which is so 1997 addition to that. important to his constituents. It is typical of his approach Road noise has a very detrimental effect on many that, having been at the forefront of the campaign to people’s lives, and the Government have recognised deliver the Jaguar Land Rover investment for his both that and the need to reduce its impact on people constituency, with colleagues including my hon. Friend living near motorways, as outlined in the Hansard list the Member for Stafford (Jeremy Lefroy), he now follows back in, I think, 2000 or 2001. It is my firm belief that through to ensure that it happens in a way that benefits the M54 meets the criteria of that list because the noise his constituents most effectively. In the Department for coming off it causes sufficient disturbance to the many Transport’s forward spending plan, £310 million was communities not just in South Staffordshire but in taken out of resource funding for road resurfacing and Wolverhampton and across the county boundary into management, but £150 million is being invested in capital Shropshire. spending. Is that capital spending not exactly the sort of When people leave the M6 and turn on to the M54, spending that my hon. Friend the Member for South they immediately drive on a tarmacadam road until Staffordshire (Gavin Williamson) is calling for to improve junction 2. Unfortunately, it is not a low-noise-impact the road and deliver a better quality of life for the surface, and as soon as they pass junction 2, there is a constituency he so ably represents? concrete slab construction all the way to Telford. We all Gavin Williamson: I thank my hon. Friend for his know that rather than absorbing noise, concrete sends it kind comments. He makes a valid point; there is a out, causing local residents great concern. danger that the Department for Transport wants to I appreciate that finances are tight, and I do not spend all its money in the Chilterns, and we do not want imagine that the Minister has a bottomless pit of money—if that. We want to ensure that it goes to the west midlands he does, I am keen to hear about it—but I urge him to and further afield. I hope that the Minister will assure look at the issues on the M54, not just in connection us that some money will be spent on the M54 and many with the Jaguar Land Rover development on the i54 other such schemes in the west midlands. site, which, I emphasise, all my constituents welcome. I ask that the Minister assures my constituents that We do not stand in the way of progress in South everything will be done to protect residents during the Staffordshire; we embrace it and make it happen, as we construction phase of the flyover, not only in Coven have been doing with the development on the i54. Heath, but much further afield, so that the impact of However, we look to the Government to reduce the the Jaguar Land Rover plant and the i54 is minimised at impact of such developments, and I ask the Minister to all costs. Will he urgently look at the whole motorway, look very closely at junction 2 and the flyover that will from the M6 to junction 2 onwards, to assure my be constructed from the i54 to the M54 and to reassure constituents that low-noise, low-impact whisper tarmac my constituents that the Government will do all they will be used when the road surface is replaced, to ensure can to reduce the impact of noise, light and other that they do not have to hear the roar of the M54? Will pollution, including by ensuring that sound barriers are he ensure that we do not have the travesty of a concrete constructed. slab motorway surface all the way from junction 2 to Telford? Will it be properly surfaced with low-noise, Jeremy Lefroy: My hon. Friend is being generous in low-impact tarmac, thus enhancing and improving the giving way again. Does he agree that when the M6 lives of many people, not only in my constituency, but managed motorway scheme that the Government recently along the length of the M54? announced, for which I am extremely grateful—I thank I hope that the Minister can assure me that the use of the Minister for his part in that—is being progressed, silent or low-noise tarmac along the whole motorway improving sound insulation, in particular between junctions will be considered in the maintenance schedule. When 13 and 14, as the M6 passes right through the middle of will that be planned over the next few years? Those Stafford, could be looked at, for the benefit of my assurances will give my constituents hope that the residents who live right up against the motorway? Government will act to improve their quality of life. 261WH Noise Reduction (M54)17 JANUARY 2012 Noise Reduction (M54) 262WH

1.43 pm Gavin Williamson: I would like clarification of the Minister’s remarks about when concrete-topped surfaces The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport need repair. Will he confirm that when the road needs (Mike Penning): My hon. Friend the Member for South repair, it will not be repaired with more concrete but Staffordshire (Gavin Williamson) will be pleased to with a low-noise surface? know that roads are part of my portfolio, so I should be able to handle the debate slightly better than the previous Mike Penning: There is a difference between repair one. I congratulate him on securing the debate and and replacement. I cannot guarantee that that will be giving me the first opportunity to congratulate him on the case when the road is repaired—in other words, his work in getting Jaguar Land Rover to invest in his when potholes and so on are fixed—but what is needed constituency. It is the sort of investment we desperately to repair it will be done. I will come on to replacement need. in a moment. With investment comes infrastructure issues, particularly We do not have a huge amount of concrete road, but in my Department. I am sure that all my hon. Friend’s a lot of local authority roads are concrete, and for constituents welcome the investment and the new jobs, maintenance, the longevity of the investment is an issue. but, interestingly, with that often comes enhancement—we My hon. Friend is right about the rest of the tarmac on could call that 106s, “planning bribes” or whatever we the i54; low-noise surfacing, which reduces noise by call them these days. As he knows better than me, there about 50%, is not on that part of the motorway. I have will be a lot of work on junction 2, which I will come on never heard it called “whisper” tarmac, but developing to in a moment. We have already moved in the debate that would be fantastic for everybody.The i54 development, from the whole length of the M6 to the Chilterns, so it is with which he was involved, will lead to significant a shame that we have only another 15 minutes or so. changes to junction 2 and the slip road, which I know I assure my hon. Friends that investment in HS2 has the local authority has planned carefully. We will work no effect on the money secured from the Treasury for with it to ensure that the project works for the local road improvement and infrastructure. I had about community and Jaguar Land Rover. I can categorically £1.4 billion to spend on capital road infrastructure over say that all the new parts of it will be low-noise. the three years of the spending round and was then The Department for Environment, Food and Rural given just over £1 billion in the autumn statement, Affairs was told by the European Commission—not which is about £2.5 billion, give or take, over three many good things have come out of the Commission years. We would not have dreamed of such investment over the past few years, but this is one good thing—that when we entered coalition Government and inherited it should do a noise survey of the whole country, the financial mess 18 months ago, but the money has including the road network. I am sorry to say to my been found for good reasons—the biggest of which is hon. Friend that this particular part of the M54 does that without infrastructure, we cannot have growth, and not fit the criteria for being excessively noisy. That without growth we cannot get out of the financial mess offers no comfort or solace to residents in his constituency, we inherited. but think about how bad the problem is on the road My hon. Friend has done his homework correctly. network in other parts of the country. Interestingly, the There have been fads in construction over the years, and A449 going north from junction 2 meets the criteria and I say “fads”, because one minute something is the will be resurfaced imminently with low-noise tarmac. It greatest piece of design technology we have ever seen already needs replacing, but it is deemed to have a and needs to be protected, and the next minute it is out significant problem with noise. of fashion and out of the way. There are two sides to That is nearly all the bad news. The tarmac on the concrete road construction. The upside is that such M54 where the concrete stops is also in good condition. roads last for a very long time and do not wear out like We do not predict that we will need to replace the flexible coverings—that is a technical term for tarmac. tarmac on the M54 for approximately four years. Although The bad news is that the concrete part of the M54 is there will be new tarmac on the new roads—new, low-noise unlikely to need resurfacing for 10 years. We will keep a tarmac on the A449—it will be a considerable time close eye on it and ensure that, if it starts to deteriorate before the M54 concrete-tarmac is resurfaced. However, more quickly than that, we will address it immediately. I assure my hon. Friend that, when that is done, low-noise tarmac will be used on the concrete as well as on the The downside to concrete is noise, and I freely admit existing tarmac. that. It often depends on the type of tyre used on the vehicle. We have so far—touch wood—not had the The solution might seem simple—as I have asked my worst winter, and my stockpiles of salt are doing remarkably officials, surely we can lay the tarmac on the concrete, well at the moment, but this time last year we had had a because it provides a strong sub-base—but that is not severe winter already.People—lorry drivers and hauliers— the case. It will have to be broken up and created as a are starting to think about switching to the tyres that sub-base, and the tarmac will then have to be re-laid in they use at other times of the year. That has a massive great depth on top, because the product is flexible, not effect on noise. If people address the type of tyre they rigid. Wear can cause so many problems. need for the environment they are working in, we will My hon. Friend has alluded to the debate that is have fewer breakdowns and blockages, so it is a positive taking place, rightly, in all our constituencies throughout step. There have been fantastic developments in the tyre the country. I hold up my hand—it is happening in my industry. In the old days, there would be a town tyre and constituency, where I have had exactly the same discussions. a town and country tyre. There are much better I have to look at the money available for maintenance developments now, but noise is an issue. No matter and for capital projects that will keep the country going, where I go in this great country of ours, road noise is an and I must spend that as wisely as possible. I do not issue in every constituency, including mine. have the bottomless pit of money to which my hon. 263WH Noise Reduction (M54)17 JANUARY 2012 Noise Reduction (M54) 264WH

[Mike Penning] selfish; there are no Members from Shropshire present— would be from junction 2 to Telford and on to junction 3. Friend has alluded, and in many ways I am pleased that When could that happen? I do not, because it gives me the opportunity to study carefully where our money is being spent. That makes Mike Penning: It will be during my hon. Friend’s time me popular in certain parts of the country. I am pleased as a constituency MP for his area—he is going to be that the M6 widening project will be popular. It will there for a long time, because he is such a hard-working give us capacity, and road safety will be significantly constituency MP. The time scale for the expected enhanced. replacement of the tarmacadam part is four years from now. It may wear out slightly earlier than that, or—I am As an ex-fireman, I was very sceptical about managed crossing my fingers—it may last a little longer. The motorways, because they were taking away the hard longer it lasts, the more money we will have in the pot. I shoulders. Then I thought back to my time in service. fully understand that that would be good news for my Where did I see the major, serious fatalities on a motorway? hon. Friend, and it would be good news for me regarding It was on the hard shoulder. One of the first incidents the budget. The faster it is replaced, the faster the that I ever went to involved an ice cream van parked on low-noise tarmac will come in. the hard shoulder. It is not the most robust of vehicles, Sound screens will also be used and some are already because of the chassis, engine and fibreglass on top. It up. They help, but they are not, under any circumstances, had broken down, pulled over to the hard shoulder and the answer to the problem. Mounding or bunding is been hit by a lorry. The driver thought he was safe. another option—I know that that has been done in my Fortunately, he had left the vehicle to walk to an SOS hon. Friend’s constituency. Trees help, but they have to phone. The vehicle resembled a skateboard—we would be placed at such depth. They have to be at about never have known that is was an ice cream van. It had 10-plus meters before they can provide any tangible been completely wiped out. If people’s vehicles break benefits. They look pretty, but if people stand on the down on the motorway, they should pull over to the other side of them—as I have done on many an occasion— hard shoulder and then get out and on to the other side they will see that they do not really help. We will put in of the barriers, which is where they will be safest. sound-proofing, particularly wood-panel sound-proofing, Modern technology on the motorways means that assistance where we can, but it is not feasible to do so across the should get to them quickly. SOS phones are available motorway network and the A-road network. and mobile phones have enhanced safety enormously We are looking at specific areas. On areas where we on our roads. are doing new works in particular—this is why I touched Managed motorways have rescue areas and sanctuaries on the M6—it is built into the project that we look at that allow us to sweat the existing assets. We do not have the issue. I am sure that that has happened with junctions to go through planning all over again, because the 13 and 14, but please do not think that that is not also motorway has already been built and the hard shoulder true of the A15, A16 and A17—we probably have done is up to road standard. It is interesting that, while hard it. It is a massive advantage that, if we can sweat the shoulders were built to road standard all those years assets, it leaves us some money elsewhere to do the sort ago, we are only starting to use them now. The M42 of advanced projects to which my hon. Friend has pilot project showed that it works and road safety on alluded. such roads has been enhanced. We can get more vehicles On the concept itself, the i54 project is so important on and it is much easier to control the flow of congestion. not just to my hon. Friend’s constituency—I fully If we look at the M42, we see that there are far fewer understand that—but to the country as a whole. It traffic jams and stationary traffic. I would much rather sends a message that this country is open for trading see traffic running at 40 or 50 mph than it being and investment. I was lucky to be on the Thames stationary before rushing off at 70 mph and having to estuary when DP World announced a £1.5 billion stop again later. investment in the newest port—it is huge—in the United I cannot promise to put up sound barriers all along Kingdom, just at the time when people were saying how the motorway. I have made a note—and my officials are difficult the situation was. Yes, the situation is difficult, present—to look specifically at junctions 13 and 14, as but there are people who are willing to invest, and that my hon. Friend has asked me to do, and I will write to will lock straight into the M25 and give us an opportunity. him about that. Even though I have not said that this issue will be resolved imminently, works will be done soon in relation not only to the local authority and the i54 development, Gavin Williamson: I thank my hon. Friend the Minister but to the A449. When the roads wear out, we will for being so generous in giving way again. I welcome his resurface them with low-noise tarmac. The estimated reassurance that low-noise, low-impact tar will be used time is four years for the tarmac and 10 years for the across the whole stretch of the M54 when it is resurfaced. concrete. I stress that the concrete is a major job and He has pointed out that the road between the M6 and not something that can be done overnight, because the junction 2 already has a tarmacadam, or flexible, surface. expense will be huge. Can he give my constituents and me an idea of when the Question put and agreed to. resurfacing will realistically happen? Will it happen in my lifetime or in my daughter’s lifetime? My top priority 1.59 pm as a constituency Member of Parliament—I am being Sitting adjourned. 33WS Written Ministerial Statements17 JANUARY 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 34WS

The disabled facilities grant was protected within the Written Ministerial spending review and additional funding is now being provided to help more people live as comfortably and Statements independently as possible in their own homes through the provision of adaptations. This additional £20 million has been allocated to local authorities using a relative Tuesday 17 January 2012 needs weighted index and all local authorities will receive some additional funding. The grant provides financial assistance for a wide BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS range of housing adaptations ranging from stair lifts, to level-access showers and home extensions. The disabled facilities grant is improving the lives of many Regional Development Agencies (Closure) disabled people and this additional funding is a further demonstration of our commitment to helping older and disabled people continue living in their homes The Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation for longer. and Skills (Mr Mark Prisk): The Public Bodies Act received Royal Assent on 14 December 2011, and includes DEFENCE parliamentary approval of powers to abolish eight regional development agencies (RDAs). The RDAs are expected Armed Forces Redundancy Programme to achieve operational closure by 31 March 2012 with formal abolition expected to occur at the end of June 2012. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Most of the RDA assets and projects which were not Defence (Mr Andrew Robathan): The Government sold or closed have transferred to receiving bodies during announced in the outcome of the strategic defence and 2011. This includes the majority of land and property security review in October 2010 that, as part of moving assets to the Homes and Communities Agency, grants to Future Force 2020, we would reduce the size of the for research and development to the Technology Strategy Regular Army by 7,000 personnel, and both the naval Board and venture capital funds to be managed by service and Royal Air Force by 5,000 personnel. In Capital for Enterprise on behalf of BIS. addition, in order to balance the British Army’s regular and reserve forces, further reductions were subsequently BIS issued individual transfer schemes for each RDA identified to deliver a Regular Army of around 82,000 under the Public Bodies Act, which came into effect on by 2020. We also made clear that, in order to maintain 1 January 2012 and transferred the majority of the balanced force structures for the future, an element of remaining projects and contracts as well as 13 staff these reductions would need to be made through a from RDAs to BIS so that they can be managed to redundancy programme. completion. The schemes and associated transfer schedules are available in the Libraries of both Houses. Our statement of 1 March 2011, Official Report, column 21WS, set out the process and timetable for the I expect that there will be two further transfer schemes armed forces redundancy programme. Consequently, in to move the last remaining assets, liabilities and obligations September 2011, 2,860 service personnel were notified out of the RDAs prior to abolition. The first of these is of their redundancy in the first tranche; 1,020 service expected in March with the second taking effect at the personnel from the naval service, 920 from the Army time of abolition. and 920 from the Royal Air Force. Of those made The RDAs will produce accounts for the financial redundant in tranche 1, some 1,770 (62%) had applied year 2011-12 and these will be laid in the Houses in the for selection. summer of 2012 in the usual way. The accounts for the Today the services are announcing the fields from period from 1 April 2012 to the date of abolition will be which they will select personnel to be made redundant laid in due course. in the second tranche of the programme. This will comprise up to 300 members of the naval service, up to 2,900 members of the Army and up to 900 members of COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT the Royal Air Force. This will be the last major tranche for the Navy and the Royal Air Force, who will be able to achieve the majority of the remaining draw-down by Disabled Facilities Grant other means. The same selection principles as used in the first tranche will be applied. The services will seek applicants, The Minister for Housing and Local Government (Grant but will also consider all personnel that meet the published Shapps): Today the Department for Communities and criteria. The redundancy programme will not impact Local Government is announcing the local authority adversely on the current operations in Afghanistan, and allocations of the £20 million additional funding for the no one who is preparing for, deployed on, or recovering disabled facilities grant in England. from specified operations on the day that redundancy Local authorities are being informed of their individual notices are issued will be made redundant unless they allocations. Details of the amount awarded to each have applied. Personnel who are assessed as being authority will be available on the Department for permanently below the level of fitness required to remain Communities and Local Government website and a in the forces will not be considered for redundancy, and table detailing the funds provided to individual authorities will instead leave through the medical discharge route at has been placed in the Library of the House. the appropriate stage in their recovery. 35WS Written Ministerial Statements17 JANUARY 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 36WS

Throughout the redundancy process, we will ensure the “West Lothian question”. In my statement of that we retain the capabilities that our armed forces 8 September 2011, Official Report, column 27WS, I require in order to meet the challenges of the future. gave some details of the forthcoming commission and undertook to return to the House with further detail including the terms of reference for the commission. Puma ZA934 (Findings of Service Inquiry) This statement sets out the further detail. The “Commission on the consequences of devolution The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): I for the House of Commons” will consist of a panel of wish to inform the House today of the findings of the six independent, non-partisan experts, chaired by service inquiry into the incident involving Puma ZA934 Sir William McKay, a former Clerk of this House. The on 8 August 2007 at Catterick in which three service other five commission members, whose backgrounds personnel tragically lost their lives and others on board are in law, academia and constitutional development in were injured. the UK and the EU, are: Sir Stephen Laws, Sir Geoffrey A service inquiry was convened to examine the cause Bowman, Professor Charlie Jeffery, Professor Yvonne of this incident and to make recommendations to prevent Galligan and Sir Emyr Jones Parry. recurrence and this is now complete. The purpose of the As I stated previously, the commission will focus on service inquiry is to establish the circumstances of the parliamentary business and procedure. The commission’s loss and to learn lessons from it; it does not seek to terms of reference are: apportion blame. “To consider how the House of Commons might deal with Puma ZA934 from 33 Squadron RAF Benson was legislation which affects only part of tine United Kingdom, conducting training at the Catterick training area. The following the devolution of certain legislative powers to the Puma was carrying 12 personnel: three RAF crew, an Scottish Parliament, the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Army officer and eight recruits undergoing basic training National Assembly for Wales.” at the infantry training centre, Catterick. The commission will commence in February 2012 The service inquiry found that at approximately 20.50 and will make its recommendations to the Government local time during the day’s final sortie, the Puma failed in the course of the next parliamentary session. This to recover from a tight turn and crashed into land to the reporting time scale is necessary to ensure that the west of the Catterick training area. Detailed analysis by commission has time for proper scrutiny of all relevant the Royal Navy Flight Safety Incident and Investigation options. Centre suggests that the aircraft’s tail rotor guard that protrudes below the tail hit the ground first as the pilot attempted to regain height. This initial impact resulted HOME DEPARTMENT in the tail being severed. The aircraft then lost rotational stability as the rotor blades made ground contact, causing the fuselage to rotate and flip several times, finally coming to rest having broken up considerably. Late Night Drinking (Late Night Levy and Early Morning Restriction Orders) Following extensive investigation, the service inquiry concluded that the cause of the incident was an incorrectly executed manoeuvre which caused the aircraft to crash. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Contributory factors that led to the incident included: Home Department (James Brokenshire): My hon. Friend the crew’s combined relative inexperience; the lack of the Minister of State for Crime Prevention and Antisocial robust crew supervision; human factors; manning shortfalls; Behaviour Reduction (Lord Henley) has today made the high operational task load placed upon 33 Squadron; the following written ministerial statement: and the reduced opportunity, because of this task load, A consultation on the secondary legislation for the late-night for supervised consolidation and reinforcement training. levy and early morning restriction orders has been launched In addition to these findings, the then Commander today. Joint Helicopter Command (Rear Admiral Johnstone-Burt) The late-night levy and early morning restriction orders (EMROs) also identified three additional contributory factors: are two alcohol measures in the Police Reform and Social the crew’s lack of adherence to checks; operating procedures; Responsibility Act 2011. The extension of EMROs will allow and their flight at below the authorised minimum level. local councils to restrict the sale of alcohol in their local area flexibly between 12 am and 6 am. This is a tool that licensing In total, 29 recommendations were made covering aircraft authorities can use to prevent problems in the night-time economy handling, training, supervision, manning, organisation in either a part or the whole of their area. The late-night levy will and equipment. Of these, 25 have already been implemented fulfil our commitment to allow councils to levy a charge from and the residual recommendations are in hand. those selling alcohol late at night in their area to help contribute A copy of the service inquiry, redacted in accordance towards high policing costs in the late-night economy. Again, it with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, can be applied flexibly between 12 am and 6 am. These measures is being placed in the Library of the House and on the will empower local communities to act to achieve a more viable night-time economy. Ministry of Defence website. The “Dealing with the Problems of Late Night Drinking” consultation is an opportunity for licensing authorities, the licensed DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER trade and its representatives, police officers and the public to share their views on the details of the regulations that will Devolution implement these policies. In particular, it asks for views on what categories of premises should benefit from exemptions and reductions under the measures, with the intention to avoid penalising premises The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office (Mr Mark that are not part of the wider late-night economy. Harper): The coalition programme for government includes Copies of the consultation will be placed in the House Library a commitment to establish a commission to consider and it is also available on the Home Office website. 37WS Written Ministerial Statements17 JANUARY 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 38WS

PRIME MINISTER In the interim the Department for Transport is publishing today a technical addendum to the guidance. The addendum updates references and lists relevant policy documents Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and legislation published since 2002 that the CAA takes (UK Delegation) into account when considering airspace change proposals.

The Prime Minister (Mr David Cameron): The hon. Plug-In Car Grant Review Member for North Thanet (Sir Roger Gale) and the hon. Member for North East Hertfordshire (Oliver Heald) have been appointed as full members of the The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport United Kingdom delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly (Norman Baker): I am pleased to announce the launch of the Council of Europe in place of the hon. Member of a plug-in van grant alongside the continuation of the for East Surrey (Mr Gyimah) and the hon. Member for existing plug-in car grant to help stimulate the market Devizes (Claire Perry), who become substitute members. for ultra-low emission vehicles. The plug-in van grant, Lord Anderson has been appointed as a full member available to both private and business buyers across the in place of the hon. Member for Stockport (Ann Coffey), UK, will provide a point of purchase discount of 20%, who becomes a substitute member. up to a maximum value of £8,000, for the purchase of 1 Lord Ahmad and Baroness Eaton have been appointed eligible new ultra-low emission vans . as substitute members in place of Lord Glentoran and The Minister of State, Department for Business, Lord Inglewood. Innovation and Skills, my hon. Friend the Member for The hon. Member for Monmouth (David T. C. Davies) Hertford and Stortford (Mr Prisk) and I have reviewed has been appointed as a substitute member in place of the existing plug-in car grant, which provides a discount the hon. Member for Grantham and Stamford (Nick of 25%, up to £5,000 off the price of eligible ultra-low Boles). emission cars. We examined the need for and value of the grant, as well as its scope. We have concluded that there remains a strong case for the grant. We have therefore decided to continue with the plug-in car grant TRANSPORT at the current level, with provision out to 2015. In addition, we are persuaded that there is a strong Civil Aviation Authority Environmental Objectives case for supporting ultra-low emission technology in vans—which often have fixed duty cycles and return to base regularly where they can easily recharge. An up-front The Minister of State, Department for Transport purchase grant, when combined with the lower running (Mrs Theresa Villiers): When the CAA is exercising its costs and tax benefits, can make switching to an ultra-low air navigation functions it is required under the Transport emission van an attractive choice for businesses. The Act 2000 to take account of environmental guidance plug-in van grant, alongside the existing plug-in car given to it by the Secretary of State. The current guidance grant, is designed to help private individuals and businesses was issued in 2002 by the then Department for Transport, adopt new, cleaner technology. Businesses, especially Local Government and the Regions. those with fleets, will be a key driver in increasing the The CAA has been able to take account of the market share of ultra-low emission vehicles. guidance to make decisions on over 70 proposals for The shift towards clean technology is an opportunity airspace change over the last nine years. The guidance to reinvigorate further the UK automotive industry, recommends that the CAA keeps abreast of current where many van manufacturers are based, alongside Government policy including on planning, sustainable helping to increase our energy security. The plug-in van development and noise as well as guidance issued by the grant will help to improve local air quality in our cities, devolved Administrations. reduce carbon emissions and meet Government targets. Given the length of time since the guidance was The technology fits well with a large portion of the van published, and the recommendations of Sir Joseph market that relies on short urban trips to and from base. Pilling in his July 2008 strategic review of the CAA and Only vans which meet strict performance criteria for the Transport Select Committee in its 2009 report on range, tail-pipe emissions and safety will be eligible for the use of airspace, the Government recognise the need the plug-in van grant. We are today opening the application to update the guidance to reflect current Government process and inviting van manufacturers to apply for policy, including on issues such as noise and climate their vehicles to become part of the scheme. To be change. This will be done next year following development considered in the first tranche, applications will need to of the “Sustainable Framework for UK Aviation” and be received by 31 January. I look forward to confirming will include a public consultation so that all views can very shortly thereafter the first vans to join the scheme. be heard on this important subject. 1 Subject to state aid approval from the European Commission.

623W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 624W

£2,630.85 Written Answers to £2,575.59 £2,551.39 Questions £2,544.01 £2,503.81 Tuesday 17 January 2012 £2,480.85 £2,380.85 £2,338.63 WALES £2,241.94 Departmental Pay £2,051.81 £2,036.87 Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales £1,995.79 how much was paid to officials in her Department in £1,912.35 (a) bonuses, (b) allowances and (c) other payments additional to basic salary in each of the last two years £1,889.03 for which figures are available; what categories of £1,867.23 payment may be made to officials in addition to basic 2010-11 salary; what the monetary value is of each category of £7,500.00 payment; and what the monetary value was of the £3,000.01 20 largest such payments made in each of the last two years. [89705] £2,680.85 £1,641.80 Mrs Gillan: The following amounts have been paid to £1,578.20 staff of the Wales Office in addition to their basic £1,559.99 salaries over the last two financial years: £1,531.34 £ £1,530.51 2009-10 2010-11 £1,409.99

Bonus 17,386.94 16,700 £1,359.99 Misc. 183,450.45 106,973.03 £1,359.99 allowances £1,351.36 Annual leave 1,482.87 871.84 £1,217.94 sacrifice £1,200.00 Overtime 43,360.19 9,245.41 £1,200.00 The Wales Office is not an employer in its own right £1,200.00 and therefore has to fulfil the terms and conditions of its staff depending on their home departments, including £1,200.00 entitlements to particular allowances. £1,200.00 Similarly the payment of performance related bonuses— £1,200.00 all of which are non-consolidated—is not a decision for £1,200.00 the Wales Office. Those staff who delivered outstanding performances were entitled to a bonus payment by Departmental Public Expenditure virtue of the terms and conditions of their home Department. Mr Hollobone: To ask the Secretary of State for The vast majority of expenditure falls under misc. Wales what steps she is taking to reduce administrative allowances, which includes the costs of staff who relocate costs in her Department in 2012; and by how much she as part of their role and those temporarily working at a expects such costs to reduce. [89521] higher grade who are then eligible for additions to their basic salary. In roles that require regular working of additional hours, an allowance is paid in lieu of overtime. Mrs Gillan: In 2011 the Wales Office established a Change and Efficiency Committee to monitor more The use of overtime is only utilised in exceptional closely the efficiencies being achieved by the Department. circumstances and now requires approval by a member A formal Efficiency Plan is being drawn up. of the senior civil service. There are also a number of shared service initiatives The value of some allowances are linked to the basic being pursued with other Territorial offices to streamline salaries of staff and therefore vary in each individual back office functions across the three Offices. case. The monetary value of the 20 largest payments made The Department’s published CSR budget incorporates each year is as follows: the efficiency targets required by Treasury and we fully expect to come within that budget. Indeed, the department 2009-10 has already achieved a number of significant efficiency £8,000.00 savings. For example, banning the purchase of first £7,306.20 class tickets from May 2010 has reduced the cost of the £2,700.00 average trip by two thirds. In addition a new government £2,696.40 contract for hotel bookings has saved the Department £2,666.27 over £12,000. 625W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 626W

Fire Services: Pensions Mr Donaldson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people have lodged an Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales appeal against a decision to revoke their right to carry a whether her Department is responsible for the pensions personal protection weapon in Northern Ireland in of firefighters in Wales; and if she will make a each of the last five years; and how many such appeals statement. [89441] have been successful. [89580] Mr Swire: The following table indicates the number Mr David Jones: The responsibility for the pensions of appeals made to the Secretary of State for Northern of firefighters in Wales falls to the Department for Ireland by holders of firearms certificates permitting Communities and Local Government working alongside them to carry a personal protection weapon revoked by the Welsh Government. the Chief Constable. The administration and payment of individual pensions and benefits is the responsibility of the fire and rescue Number of successful authorities. Number of appeals appeals

Rescue Services 2007 0 0 2008 2 0 2009 1 0 Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales 2010 1 0 what recent representations she has received on the 2011 3 0 adequacy of helicopter search and rescue services covering South Wales. [89442] Mr Donaldson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people have lodged an Mr David Jones: The Wales Office has received no appeal against a decision to refuse their application for recent representations about the adequacy of helicopter a personal protection weapon in Northern Ireland in search and rescue services covering South Wales. each of the last five years; and how many such appeals have been successful. [89581] Mr Swire: The following table indicates the number NORTHERN IRELAND of appeals made since 2007 to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland against the Chief Constable’s refusal Departmental Work Experience to grant a firearms certificate allowing possession of a personal protection weapon. Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what guidelines his Department Number of successful issues to its non-departmental public bodies on the Number of appeals appeals employment of unpaid interns. [89383] 2007 8 2 2008 19 3 Mr Swire: My Department does not issue guidance 2009 101 57 on the employment of unpaid interns to its NDPBs. 2010 38 0 The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, which 2011 46 0 is responsible for developing and implementing its own human resources policies, offers some internships on an Mr Donaldson: To ask the Secretary of State for expenses only basis. Northern Ireland how many people who have convictions for scheduled offences have been granted a Firearms firearms certificate in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years. [89582] Mr Donaldson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) how many people have had a Mr Swire: The Police Service of Northern Ireland firearms certificate revoked (a) for reasons of national (PSNI) is the firearms licensing authority for Northern security and (b) because they were deemed unfit to Ireland, responsible for the issuing of firearms certificates hold a firearm in Northern Ireland in each of the last to those wishing to possess firearms. As such these are five years; [89577] matters for the Chief Constable of the PSNI. (2) how many people have had their right to carry a personal protection weapon revoked in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years; [89578] PRIME MINISTER (3) how many people have had an application for a Aidan Burley personal protection weapon refused in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years. [89579] Ian Austin: To ask the Prime Minister pursuant to the letter of 21 December from his private political Mr Swire: The Police Service of Northern Ireland secretary regarding the behaviour of the hon. Member (PSNI) is the firearms licensing authority for Northern for Cannock Chase, when he expects the investigation Ireland, responsible for the issuing of firearms certificates to report to him; and if he will place in the Library a to those wishing to possess firearms, including those copy of the report of the investigation. [90283] wishing to possess a firearm for personal protection purposes. As such these are matters for the Chief Constable The Prime Minister: This is a matter for the Conservative of the PSNI. party. 627W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 628W

COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT Local authority Number of complaints in 2011

Affordable Housing: Rural Areas Hammersmith and Fulham 115 London Borough Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for Sheffield City Council 114 Communities and Local Government whether it is his Islington London Borough 113 policy to encourage landowners to make land available Ealing London Borough 113 for affordable housing in rural areas. [89284] Bristol City Council 108 Essex County Council 102 Andrew Stunell: The coalition Government have Newham London Borough 98 established in the Localism Act and the draft National Surrey County Council 96 Planning Policy Framework that local authorities, engaging Staffordshire County Council 95 with their local communities, are best placed to address Brighton and Hove City 92 the need for all types of housing, including affordable Council housing, in their areas. In that spirit, some authorities are encouraging landowners to make land available for These figures, in part, will reflect the larger resident affordable housing by offering them the right to nominate populations in the local authority area; for example, the tenants to some of the homes. population of Birmingham is four times the size of Brighton and Hove. We anticipate that the Community Right to Build will provide communities with the opportunity to secure Council Housing the development they want, and we expect that they will engage with local landowners to secure the land to Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for support this development. In November 2011 I also set Communities and Local Government how much public out further opportunities in line with the Home on the funding has been allocated to (a) write off council Farm scheme, for local authorities to work with farmers housing debt and (b) provide gap funding for councils to ensure that disused or underused farm buildings are pursuing stock transfer in 2011-12; and how much is converted for affordable housing. proposed for a new stock transfer programme in (i) 2012-13 and (ii) 2013-14. [89590] Commission for Local Administration in England Andrew Stunell: Overhanging debt payments are within John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for annually managed expenditure. In 2011-12 voted provision Communities and Local Government in which 20 was £658 million, which has been adjusted as the year parliamentary constituencies the most complaints were unfolds. The Department has yet to make any payments made to the Local Government Ombudsman in 2011. to the Public Works Loans Board in respect of completed [88920] housing stock transfers this financial year. It expects to make payments of up to £370 million for transfers due Robert Neill: This information is not available. The to complete by 31 March 2012. Figures for 2012-13 and Local Government Ombudsman’s data are about 2013-14 are not available. complaints relating to local authorities, the following The Gap Funding programme is managed by the table showing the 20 councils with the highest number Homes and Communities Agency who allocate funding of complaints in 2011. directly to housing associations. The agency has allocated £175 million for 2011-12, £161 million in 2012-13 and Local authority Number of complaints in 2011 £121 million in 2013-14 in gap funding. Birmingham City Council 257 Southwark London Borough 198 Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Lambeth London Borough 186 Communities and Local Government what the Leeds City Council 176 difference was between total rents paid by council Cornwall Council 148 tenants and the amount paid to councils in allowances Kent County Council 143 for maintenance and major repairs of tenants’ homes Haringey London Borough 135 in (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011-12 to date. Camden London Borough 133 [89592] Croydon London Borough 121 Hackney London Borough 119 Andrew Stunell: The data are given in the following table.

£ Allowances for management Rental income less management, and maintenance1 Allowance for major repairs Guideline rental income maintenance and major repairs

2009-10 3,234,501,328 1,250,408,574 6,018,638,074 1,533,728,172 2010-11 3,271,802,304 1,251,166,862 6,086,688,786 1,563,719,620 2011-12 3,269,422,797 1,247,117,455 6,296,923,063 1,780,382,811 1 Management and maintenance costs are not disaggregated.

Rental income also contributes to the revenue costs initiative schemes and capital charges together with a of arm’s length management organisations, private finance number of other, relatively minor, items. Collectively, 629W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 630W these additional elements, which are not included in the that have been selected to leave the Department or they table above, amounted to additional expenditure of have exited by October 2012, there are no vacant roles £1.421 billion, £1.041 billion and £1,109 billion in each against which we could deploy apprentices. year respectively. The existing housing revenue account subsidy system Departmental Publications ends on 31 March 2012, with the introduction of the new self-financing regime introduced by the Localism Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Act 2011. Communities and Local Government how many (a) Council Tax Benefits leaflets, (b) posters and (c) reports his Department has published since May 2010; how much each cost; Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for and which company (i) published and (ii) designed Communities and Local Government whether local each. [83003] authorities will be required to apply benefit tapers defined by his Department in operating council tax Robert Neill: Since May 2010, the Department has benefit schemes under provisions of the Local published 1,059 leaflets, posters and reports. Of these, Government Finance Bill. [90241] around 80% were produced at zero cost to the Department. Through the operation of the Government marketing Robert Neill: The Government intend that the general controls, the Department has reduced the total number principles of supporting work incentives will be set out and unit cost of its publications compared with previous in guidance which will help local authorities to design years. My Department is taking further steps to reduce support. The Government will also consider what technical the amount of hard copy printing of reports. details around work incentives will help local authorities The remaining publications incurred the following to consider interactions with universal credit and whether costs: work incentives have been adequately supported. The Department will explore this in its work on the delivery (a) Leaflets of local schemes with local government representative Cost: £11,215.20 organisations. Designers and printers: Tempo and Tudorseed Departmental Apprentices (b) Posters (related to the Fire Kills campaign) Total cost (design and print): £1,926 Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Designers and printers: Tempo Communities and Local Government how much (c) Reports funding his Department allocated to sponsor Total cost (design and print): £223,605.66 apprenticeships in his Department in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and how much such funding he plans to Designers and printers: The Stationary Office (TSO), Celeritas, Graphics Matter, Gray Publishing, GWS, RIBA, Tempo and [89138] allocate in 2012-13. Tudorseed. Robert Neill: No funding has been allocated by the To place this in context, the equivalent spend in the Department for Communities and Local Government 18 months prior to May 2010 has been roughly estimated to sponsor apprenticeships from April 2010 and there by my Department to be in the region of £1.9 million. are no current plans to sponsor any apprenticeships between January 2012 and March 2013. Government Procurement Card The Department’s staffing restructure is timetabled to October 2012. Until we have either redeployed staff Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for that have been selected to leave the Department or they Communities and Local Government pursuant to the have exited by October 2012, there are no vacant roles answer to the hon. Member for Great Yarmouth, of against which we could deploy apprentices. 3 November 2011, Official Report, column 782W, on the Government Procurement Card, if he will give the Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for name of the Minister or permanent secretary in respect Communities and Local Government how many of whom each transaction listed in the answer was apprentices were employed by his Department between made. [81676] (a) April 2010 and March 2011 and (b) April and December 2011; and how many apprenticeships he Robert Neill: The following transactions were made plans that his Department will sponsor between (i) under the heading of ’restaurants and bars’ and ’leisure January and March 2012 and (ii) April and March activities’ using cards held by the Permanent Secretary’s 2013. [89208] Private Office in 2007-08: Robert Neill: The data collected by Government Skills Transaction shows that the Department for Communities and Local Transaction Cardholder Spend amount Government did not start any apprenticeships during date name Merchant Town category (£) the year April 2010 to March 2011 and has not started 28 June Private Deliverance London Restaurants 17.90 any in the current financial year. My Department has 2007 Office Limited W12 and bars no current plans to sponsor any apprenticeships between 28 June Private Deliverance London Restaurants 10.45 January 2012 and March 2013. 2007 Office Limited Wl2 and bars 28 June Private Deliverance London Restaurants 145.85 The Department’s staffing restructure is timetabled 2007 Office Limited Wl2 and bars to October 2012. Until we have either redeployed staff 631W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 632W

There were no transactions under the heading of offers choices to, tenants, and has the objective of ’restaurant and bars’ and ’leisure activities’ using cards completing repairs and improvements right first time. It held by the Permanent Secretary’s Private Office in also requires registered providers to ensure a prudent, 2006-07. planned approach to repairs and maintenance of homes Other records are not held in the names of individual and communal areas which should balance planned Ministers. It would involve disproportionate cost to and responsive repairs, and value for money. provide the information in this form. The regulator has a range of enforcement powers it can use if a registered provider is failing to meet the Local Government Finance: Housing requirements of this standard. The social housing regulator is currently consulting on a new set of standards. This Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for includes a revision to the tenant involvement standard Communities and Local Government how much to require landlords to give tenants opportunities to funding each local authority in England has forgone as play a bigger role in the maintenance of their homes. a result of the top-slicing of the 2012-13 Formula Certain small, urgent repairs which, if not made, are Grant to part fund the most recent new homes bonus likely to affect the health, safety and security of local allocations. [89181] authority tenants and their households have to be carried out in legislatively prescribed timescales under the Secure Robert Neill: £176 million has been top-sliced from Tenants of Local Housing Authorities (Right to Repair) the 2012-13 Formula Grant to part fund the 2012-13 Regulations 1994 (SI 1994/133). New Homes Bonus allocations. This was deducted from the total amount of grant set in the spending review Sustainable Communities Act 2007 before the allocation for individual local authorities was calculated. The Department has not attempted to calculate Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for how the £176 million would have been distributed within Communities and Local Government (1) whether formula grant if the top-slice had not occurred. We regulations to be laid before Parliament under the have allocated almost £1 billion of additional funding Sustainable Communities Act 2007 will include a duty to support the New Homes Bonus over the spending on local authorities to try to reach agreement with review period, including £250 million set aside for 2012-13. communities when deciding on proposals to be Members: Correspondence submitted under the Act; [88884] (2) whether regulations to be laid before Parliament Sir Alan Beith: To ask the Secretary of State for under the Sustainable Communities Act 2007 will limit Communities and Local Government when he expects how long the Secretary of State has to deal with the Minister of State for Housing to respond to the proposals submitted by communities and councils; letters of 24 October and 29 November 2011 from the [88885] right hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed regarding (3) when he plans to lay before Parliament a right to build scheme in his constituency. [89793] regulations under the Sustainable Communities Act 2007. [88886] Grant Shapps: The letters were answered on 10 January 2012. Greg Clark: The Government are considering the scope of regulations under the Sustainable Communities Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Act 2007 following the consultation exercise conducted Communities and Local Government if he will ensure last year. We expect to make the regulations shortly. that the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government replies to the Travellers: Caravan Sites letter of 20 December 2011 from the hon. Member for Hartlepool on whether a call-in decision is required for Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the planning application as a matter of urgency. [90286] Communities and Local Government when he plans to announce the Government’s new policy on Gypsy and Robert Neill: A reply to the hon. Member for Hartlepool Traveller planning following the Planning for Travellers was dispatched on 11 January 2012. Sites consultation. [89749]

Social Rented Housing: Repairs and Maintenance Robert Neill: We are considering the responses to the consultation on our draft planning policy for Traveller Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for sites and will publish the new policy as soon as possible. Communities and Local Government (1) what steps his Decision makers are entitled to have regard to the fact Department has taken to ensure that local authority that it is proposed to withdraw the circulars and replace housing departments repair properties following them with the Government’s draft new policy. accidents and emergencies in a timely manner; [90030] (2) what powers his Department has to ensure local Water: Conservation authorities improve efficiency in making necessary repairs to homes of vulnerable tenants. [90031] Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government if he will bring Andrew Stunell: The Social Housing Regulator’s Home forward proposals to create a statutory requirement Standard requires registered providers to provide a that all commercial and domestic new-builds should be cost-effective repairs and maintenance service to homes required to harvest roof water for non-potable usage. and communal areas that responds to the needs of, and [90208] 633W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 634W

Andrew Stunell: To reduce the use of wholesome TSol AGO HM CPSI water, the 2010 changes to the building regulations introduced for the first time requirements for a calculated Allowances2 87,763 44,771 19,372 whole building performance standard for water use in Other3 229,214 41,526 31,132 new homes, currently set at 125 litres/person/day. Total 875,708 131,256 78,104 As the regulations are a functional approach, they 1 Non-consolidated performance-related pay 2 Allowances: contractual payments in respect of specific posts e.g. on the basis allow the appropriate use of non-wholesome water for of their location or particular responsibilities.3 Other: these include in-year flushing of WCs and other non-potable uses, such as special bonus payments, overtime payments and deputising allowances. irrigation, and the approved documents that provide The total value of the 20 largest individual payments statutory guidance in support of the building regulations was as follows. These were payments of non-consolidated give additional advice on the use of rainwater harvesting PRP to members of the senior civil service (SCS). and water from baths, basins and showers (referred to as ″greywater″) for non-potable uses. 2010-11: £100,000 (20 payments of £5,000 each). 2009-10: £217,000 (individual payments ranged between £10,000 This approach reflects a policy in which water efficiency and £15,000) measures should always be considered before rainwater harvesting or greywater systems, which, if not properly The following table provides details of the total payments designed and installed, carry a risk of cross-connection made by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) to staff through and can be more energy and carbon intensive than payroll in addition to their basic salary. mains supplies. They can also be costly and require routine maintenance in order to maintain effectiveness. £ Payment type 2009-10 2010-11 In light of the above, the Government consider that it Non-consolidated performance 304,033 334,379 would be inappropriate to make regulations to specifically related pay require rainwater harvesting to be provided in all new Instant bonuses 2,712 3,858 buildings. Accountancy allowance 42,465 55,490 Other work related allowance 50,671 40,216 London pay addition 1,200 1,170 Excess fares allowance 16,810 20,561 ATTORNEY-GENERAL Total 417,891 455,674

Departmental Pay The 20 largest payments made in addition to basic salary in each of these years are: Priti Patel: To ask the Attorney-General how much 2009-10 was paid to officials in the Law Officers’ Departments £12,500 in (a) bonuses, (b) allowances and (c) other payments £7,000 additional to basic salary in each of the last two years £6,000 for which figures are available; what categories of £4,500 payment may be made to officials in addition to basic £3,500 salary; what the monetary value is of each category of payment; and what the monetary value was of the and others at £2,000 20 largest such payments made in each of the last two 2010-11 years. [89702] £12,000 £8,000 The Solicitor-General: Non-consolidated performance- £7,500 related payments made by the Law Officers’ Departments £6,500 over the last two full financial years are detailed in the following tables. The intention of such payments is to £5,000 reward high performing staff and thereby maintain and others at £2,000 effective operational efficiency. The amount paid to Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) Payments made by Treasury Solicitor’s Department officials in non-consolidated performance related payments (TSol), the Attorney-General’s Office (AGO) and HM was £1,023,928 in 2009-10 and £1,321,003 in 2010-11. Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) over The majority of the higher payments made in 2010-11 the last two full financial years are as follows: were payments made to SCS under the Civil Scheme, which in that year was subject to a cap for each grade. TSol AGO HM CPSI The largest 20 non-consolidated performance payments in each of the last two financial years were as follows, 2010-11 with those in the SCS scheme subject to caps of between Non- 319,647 21,075 14,900 consolidated £15,000 and £10,000, depending upon grade: PRP1 Allowances2 83,768 16,683 18,945 £ Other3 59,981 25,780 6,028 2009-10 2010-11 Total 463,396 63,538 39,873 1 15,000 12,116 2 12,500 10,379 2009-10 3 10,000 9,324 Non- 558,731 44,959 27,600 4 10,000 9,276 consolidated 5 10,000 8,682 PRP1 635W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 636W

Departmental Procurement £ 2009-10 2010-11 Chris Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for 6 10,000 8,645 Transport in which (a) contracts for rolling stock 7 10,000 8,553 procurement and (b) other major contracts operated 8 10,000 8,268 by her Department are made in foreign currencies. 9 8,317 8,055 [89121] 10 6,089 7,741 11 6,045 7,674 Mrs Villiers: All such contracts are made in pounds 12 5,795 7,565 sterling. 13 5,743 7,213 14 5,698 7,200 Chris Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for 15 5,654 7,192 Transport whether it is the regular practice of her 16 5,654 7,178 Department to accept bids priced in whole or part in 17 5,521 7,144 foreign currencies. [89122] 18 5,456 7,086 19 5,129 7,063 Mrs Villiers: Bids are typically priced in pounds 20 4,989 6,991 sterling. Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency: Closures The CPS also pays a number of specific allowances as follows: Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Recruitment and retention allowance (RARA)—Inner London Transport what meetings (a) she, (b) the £3,000 p.a. Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State and (c) Recruitment and retention allowance (RARA)—Outer London £1,000 p.a. officials in her Department have had on the possible closure of the local offices and regional enforcement Higher court attendance allowance (HCA)—£1,500 p.a. centres of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. Accountancy allowance (fully qualified)—£5,000 p.a. [89483] Accountancy allowance—Stage II—£2,000 p.a. Accountancy allowance—Stage I—£250 p.a. Mike Penning: As has been the practice of previous Audit allowance—£3,000 p.a. Administrations information relating to internal meetings, ICT specialist allowance—£3,000 p.a. discussions and advice is not normally disclosed. Meetings Private secretary allowance—£4,000 p.a. between Ministers and Permanent Secretaries and external Pathfinder allowance—£3,000 p.a. organisations are published on a quarterly basis. Information for 13 May 2010 to 30 June 2011 is available Paralegal officer allowance (one-off payment)—£250 on the Department of Transport’s website: The total amount paid through these allowances was http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/ministerial-transparency/ £5,851,579 in 2009-10, £5,506,948 in 2010-11. #meetings The CPS also makes some other payments to staff in More recent information will be published in due course. addition to basic salary. These cover items such as overtime, out of hours working for staff (who do not Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for receive overtime), and allowances for work carried out Transport what recent representations she has received at a higher grade. The total payments made for these on the possible closure of the Driver and Vehicle items were £6,983,610 in 2009-10 and £6,625,181 in Licensing Agency’s local offices and regional 2010-11. The largest 20 payments here have not been enforcement centres. [89484] identified as it would incur disproportionate costs to do so. Mike Penning: Between 13 December 2011 and 10 January 2012, about 250 responses have been received to the public consultation from a range of stakeholders TRANSPORT and customers. A summary of responses and the outcome of the consultation will be available as soon as possible BMI after the consultation closes on 6 March 2012. In the same time frame 24 parliamentary questions Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for and 14 letters from hon. Members to the Department Transport what assessment has been made of the for Transport have also been dealt with. potential effects of the sale of BMI to IAG on businesses in Scotland. [90239] Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether her Department has undertaken an Mrs Villiers: I would refer the hon. Member to my equality impact assessment in respect of the possible written answer given to the hon. Member for Midlothian closure of the local offices and regional enforcement (Mr Hamilton) and the hon. Member for Poplar and centres of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. Limehouse (Jim Fitzpatrick) on 28 November 2011, [89485] Official Report, column 647W,in relation to the proposed sale of the airline BMI, and to my written answer given Mike Penning: No formal equality impact assessment again to the hon. Member for Poplar and Limehouse has been completed at this stage, although equality (Jim Fitzpatrick), on 1 December 2011, Official Report, matters were considered in the development of the column 1019W, in relation to aviation links between proposals. An equality impact assessment is being Scotland and London airports. undertaken as part of the current consultation process. 637W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 638W

Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency: Finance Average length of service in years

Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Peterborough 8.3 Transport what revenue was generated by the local Portsmouth 11.2 offices and regional enforcement centres of the Driver Preston 9.4 and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in each of the Reading 9.9 last five years; and what proportion of the DVLA’s Sheffield 11.8 annual revenue this constitutes. [89486] Shrewsbury 12.5 Sidcup 11.2 Mike Penning: The following table shows the cumulative Stockton 10.5 revenue requested for the last four financial years. The Swansea Office 11.0 information for 2006-07 is not readily available and Truro 6.2 would incur disproportionate costs to gather. Wimbledon 9.7 Worcester 12.4 Local Office and Local Office and Enforcement Central Regional Enforcement Centre Enforcement Centre as a Centre revenue Agency revenue percentage of the Bournemouth 10.2 (£ million) (£ million) agency revenue Glasgow 11.5 2007-08 475 5,943 7.99 Northampton 9.6 2008-09 440 6,190 7.11 2009-10 424 6,433 6.59 Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency: Redundancy Pay 2010-11 420 6,467 6.49

Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency: Manpower Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate she has made of her Department’s liability for redundancy payments Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for following the planned closure of the Driver and Vehicle Transport what the average length of service is of staff Licensing Agency’s local offices and regional employed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency enforcement centres. [89346] at each local office and regional enforcement centre. [89482] Mike Penning: The Department’s liability for redundancy Mike Penning: The following table provides the average payments is estimated to be £32 million for the Driver length of service of staff employed by the Driver and and Vehicle Licensing Agency’s local offices and regional Vehicle Licensing Agency’s local office and regional enforcement centres. enforcement centres. Driving Under Influence: Rehabilitation Average length of service in years

Local Office Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Aberdeen 13.8 Transport what meetings (a) Ministers and (b) Bangor 11.9 officials in her Department have had with potential [89488] Beverley 9.6 providers of drink-drive rehabilitation courses. Birmingham 8.2 Borehamwood 10.7 Mike Penning: Driving Standards Agency (DSA) officials Bournemouth 11.0 have had regular meetings and communications with Brighton 11.9 potential providers of Drink Drive Rehabilitation (DDR) Bristol 9.3 courses. All existing course providers are potential providers Cardiff 9.6 under the proposed scheme. Carlisle 7.8 Since 2009, DSA has actively engaged with The Chelmsford 10.8 Association of Drink Drive Providers of Training Chester 10.3 (ADDAPT)—the representative body for DDR course Dundee 10.5 providers. DSA officials have attended ADDAPT Edinburgh 9.2 management meetings, quarterly ADDAPT ’full members’ Exeter 8.0 meetings and taken an active part in ADDAPT Study Glasgow 9.7 days, including running workshops. ADDAPT has also Inverness 5.7 been closely involved in the development of the DDR Ipswich 13.1 Scheme Course Syllabus, which DSA published to coincide Leeds 9.7 with the “New approval arrangements for drink-drive Lincoln 11.2 rehabilitation courses” consultation paper. Maidstone 13.7 Since July 2009, 20 out of the 21 existing course Manchester 8.1 providers have been visited by DSA officials. DSA has Newcastle 9.4 also responded to a number of expressions of interest Northampton 7.2 from organisations wishing to provide DDR courses. Norwich 9.4 The agency corresponded with these organisations to Nottingham 7.9 keep them informed as to current developments and the Oxford 16.1 consultation. 639W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 640W

Oil Mrs Villiers: Thameslink rolling stock will be funded by train operating companies paying a lease charge to Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for the train manufacturer and Maintained Intercity Express Transport (1) what progress has been made on the programme rolling stock will be funded via train operating inclusion of a default value for tar sands in the companies paying set access payments to the train European Fuel Quality Directive; [89616] service provider. (2) what her policy is on the European Commission’s The budgets for these payments have been confirmed proposal for a greenhouse gas emissions value for oil as part of the 2010 comprehensive spending review. produced from tar sands. [89306] Chris Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Norman Baker: The European Commission put forward Transport whether she proposes that her Department proposals on 4 October 2011 for implementing the Fuel should take account of the underlying interest rate risk Quality Directive that cover a wide range of issues on the long-term LIBOR swap rate between the bid including a default value for the greenhouse gas intensity date and financial close of each batch for each bidder of oil sands/natural bitumen. The Government are for the (a) Intercity Express Programme and (b) considering how these align with our environmental Thameslink Rolling Stock Programme. [89184] objectives. Mrs Villiers: The Department tracks underlying LIBOR We are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions rates, and their repercussions on the Intercity Express and want the Fuel Quality Directive to be a key tool in Programme and Thameslink Rolling Stock Project contract achieving this aim. The Government are therefore seeking awards, on an ongoing basis. Fluctuation of inter-banking an effective solution to address the carbon emissions lending rates remains the Department’s risk up to the from all highly polluting crudes, not just those from oil point of financial close. sands. Member state representatives of the Committee on Railways: Profits Fuel Quality met on. 25 October and 2 December 2011 to discuss these implementing measures. Further meetings Mr Andrew Turner: To ask the Secretary of State for are provisionally scheduled for February and March Transport which rail routes made (a) a profit, (b) a this year. Member states have not yet been asked to vote running profit only and (c) a loss in the latest period on the European Commission’s proposals. for which figures are available. [89801] Railway Stations: Greater London Mrs Villiers [holding answer 16 January 2012]: The Department does not currently hold this information Mr Love: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport but is aware that the Office of Rail Regulation is seeking what estimate she has made of the change in the level to publish income and expenditure information by Network of revenue generated at stations on the London Rail route for the year 2010-11. Liverpool Street to Enfield Town line since the introduction of ticketing barriers; and if she will make Railways: Reform a statement. [88400] Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Norman Baker: The Department for Transport does Transport what (a) was the initial and (b) is the not hold detailed information relating to changes in current expected delivery month or quarter for (i) revenue generated at specific stations. Ticket barriers legislative proposals being brought forward in response are an effective method of preventing ticketless travel, to the McNulty Review on reforming the railways, (ii) thereby protecting revenue. the reform of Network Rail, (iii) the announcement on Railways: Conflict of Interests changes to the powers of the Office of Rail Regulation, (iv) the High Level Output Specification, (v) the next John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for letting of the West Coast Intercity franchise, (vi) the Transport pursuant to the answer of 5 December 2011, order for Intercity Express trains and (vii) the order for Official Report, column 88W, on railways: franchises, Thameslink trains. [89124] which consultants have declared potential conflicts of interest in advising her Department on rail (a) Mrs Villiers: Planned and actual delivery dates for franchises and (b) procurement contracts in the last departmental commitments are published in the DFT 18 months. [R] [88078] Strategic Business Plan, available on the Department’s website and updated monthly. Mrs Villiers [holding answer 12 January 2012]: Interfleet The Department expects to publish shortly a Command notified the Department on three occasions of potential Paper on Rail, which will include proposals on the conflicts of interest as answered in: structure of Network Rail. The Department and Office http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/ of Rail Regulation are currently consulting jointly on cmhansrd/cm111101/text/111101w0005.htm#11110220000529 the role of the regulator, and the consultation is due to There have been no other conflicts of interest formally close on 2 March 2012. declared by consultants in the last 18 months. The High Level Output Specification is due to be Railways: Finance published by July 2012, and delivery remains on track. The new Intercity West Coast franchise is due to be Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for awarded in the summer, and to commence in December Transport what funding has been allocated to the (a) 2012. Thameslink rolling stock and (b) Intercity Express The Department is planning to reach financial close programme; and if she will make a statement. [89123] for both IEP and Thameslink in the spring of this year. 641W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 642W

Railways: Richmond upon Thames At that time, I was not persuaded that there was sufficient appetite from councils and motorists, or that Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for enough evidence had been provided about the likely Transport if she will consider the merits of reviewing benefits and costs, to justify bringing these powers into passenger overcrowding on commuter rail services force. I also indicated that I was prepared to keep the serving stations in Richmond Park constituency. matter under review. Further representations have been received since then, and as a result I am reflecting on the [89359] case for implementation and will be reviewing available evidence from Transport for London and the London Mrs Villiers: The Department regularly monitors levels boroughs, who already carry out civil enforcement of of overcrowding on peak services into London Waterloo these contraventions. The views of road users themselves through the provisions of the franchise agreement. will also be a key consideration. On 23 December 2011, the Secretary of State for Since the 14 responses mentioned above, the Department Transport, my right hon. Friend the Member for for Transport has received representations from Kent Putney (Justine Greening), announced that South West county council, Stoke city council, Test Valley council, Trains passengers will benefit from 60 extra carriages North Tyneside council, Medway and Bath council and that are being funded by the Government. Their arrival North East Somerset council, the Local Government will mean that services from Windsor, Weybridge (via Association, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Staines), Portsmouth, Southampton, Eastleigh, Reading, Association and Startraq (UK) Ltd in favour of Hounslow and Alton into Waterloo can be lengthened implementing the powers. The Department has not and additional services will also run from Reading. received any representations against the introduction of Their deployment will mean that platform 20 at the the powers. former Waterloo International Terminal will come back into use from 2014. The Secretary of State for Transport, the right hon. Member for Putney (Justine Greening), has not made The carriages—which will allow around 8,000 extra an estimate of the cost of implementing Part 6 of the peak-time passengers into Waterloo every morning—will Traffic Management Act 2004. begin arriving from May 2013, with all new services in However, a full impact assessment would be carried place by July 2014. out if it were decided to implement these powers. Road Traffic Offences Road Works: Greater London

Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) how many local authorities in England Transport pursuant to the answer of 14 June 2011, and Wales have been consulted on implementation of Official Report, column 729W, on roadworks, whether Part 6 of the Traffic Management Act 2004 relating to her Department has made an assessment of whether the enforcement of moving traffic contraventions; and street work legislation is working effectively in London. what proportion this figure represents of all such local [89854] authorities; [84349] Norman Baker: No specific assessment has been made (2) whether her Department plans to consult local by the Department of the effectiveness of street works authorities on their views on implementation of Part 6 legislation across London. of the Traffic Management Act 2004 relating to the enforcement of moving traffic contraventions; and if Shipping: Marriage she will make a statement; [84350] (3) which public and private sector organisations Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for have made representations to her Department to Transport whether she plans to bring forward express (a) support for and (b) opposition to the legislative proposals to authorise the captains of implementation of Part 6 of the Traffic Management British-flagged vessels to conduct weddings. [89949] Act 2004 relating to the enforcement of moving traffic contraventions; [84351] Mike Penning: My Department is exploring options (4) for what reasons Part 6 of the Traffic to allow weddings and civil partnership ceremonies on Management Act 2004 relating to the enforcement of board UK registered ships. moving traffic contraventions has not yet been This is a legally complex area. Any proposed legislation implemented; [84352] would have to deal with marriage and civil partnerships (5) what estimate she has made of the cost of as separate provisions and it would have to ensure implementing Part 6 of the Traffic Management proper regard is given to the differing systems in the Act 2004 relating to the enforcement of moving traffic devolved administrations. contraventions. [84353] Where a marriage takes place at sea, there could be difficulty in determining the country in which the ceremony Norman Baker [holding answer 1 December 2011]: In took place and any legislation would need to be clear December 2010 I wrote to 20 local authorities to gauge about whose jurisdiction the ship is in, in order to enthusiasm for implementation of Part 6 of the Traffic determine what legal requirements must be met to Management Act 2004. The 20 authorities were those perform a valid marriage or civil partnership. judged most likely to wish to adopt the powers in Part Finally, it should be noted that it would not be for the 6, and represent 13% of the total 152 English local captain to conduct the ceremony but an official registrar authorities. 14 replies were received. or superintendant. 643W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 644W

WORK AND PENSIONS advisers in his Department have received hospitality from Japan Tobacco International since May 2010. Children [87615]

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Chris Grayling: Information about hospitality received and Pensions what methods are used by his by Ministers and special advisers is published quarterly Department to measure the effects of its decisions on by Departments. Information for the period 13 May the subjective well-being of children. [90159] 2010 to 30 June 2011 can be accessed on departmental websites. Information for 1 July onwards will be published Maria Miller: The Department for Work and Pensions in due course. is working with the Office for National Statistics and a Departmental Private Investigators range of stakeholders, including other Government Departments and representatives from the third sector, to develop well-being measures for children and young Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for people as part of the overall Measuring National Well-being Work and Pensions how much his Department has programme. spent on private investigators in the last 12 months for which figures are available. [89071] Measures appropriate to children and young people need to include both their own views about their well-being Chris Grayling: I can confirm that DWP does not use as well as more objective measures of the circumstances private investigators to investigate benefit fraud. The that children and young people find themselves in. Fraud Investigation Service (FIS), part of the Department Collecting subjective well-being information from children of Work and Pensions (DWP), investigates fraud in all is important because research has shown that parents’ benefits administered by DWP. reporting of children’s subjective well-being is quite different from the way children report it themselves. Departmental Work Experience This work will provide more robust intelligence about children’s well-being and the factors that contribute to Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for it, provide a measure of children’s well-being in the UK Work and Pensions what guidelines his Department in comparison to other comparable countries, and drive issues to its non-departmental public bodies on the policy prioritisation to improve outcomes for children employment of unpaid interns. [89389] and young people. Chris Grayling: The Department for Work and Pensions Departmental Location has not issued guidance to its non-departmental public bodies on the employment of unpaid interns. Mr Wallace: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Disability Living Allowance and Pensions which posts in his Department have been transferred from Fylde coast to (a) Sheffield and (b) Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Work elsewhere in the UK since 2005. [89130] and Pensions how many applications for attendance and disability living allowances have been made in each Chris Grayling: The Department does not centrally of the last four years; and how many were (a) awarded record information on posts in a way that would allow on first application, (b) awarded after an internal any transfers to be tracked and monitored. Therefore it review and (c) awarded after a First Tier Tribunal is not possible to provide the information requested. hearing. [89724]

Departmental Official Hospitality Maria Miller: Information on the number of disability living allowance (DLA) and attendance allowance (AA) Mr Hain: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and new claim applications received in each of the last four Pensions whether any (a) Ministers and (b) special calendar years can be found in the following table:

New claim applications received 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

DLA New claims received 463,100 485,500 448,100 432,200 AA New claims received 388,200 384,000 337,600 318,900

Details of DLA and AA decisions and awards for new claims, reconsiderations and appeals can be found, in the following tables:

Disability living allowance 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

DLA New claims decisions 471,000 477,600 463,500 425,800 DLA New claims awards successful 213,900 214,200 203,600 186,800 DLA New claim success (percentage) 45.4 44.8 43.9 43.9 DLA Reconsideration decisions 136,700 133,400 143,400 134,300 645W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 646W

Disability living allowance 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

DLA Reconsideration awards successful 67,300 65,800 63,300 57,700 DLA Reconsideration success (percentage) 49.2 49.3 44.1 43.0 DLA Appeal decisions to tribunal 55,400 51,400 48,500 65,600 DLA Appeal successful 24,400 21,300 19,100 25,700 DLA Appeal success (percentage) 44.0 41.4 39.4 39.2

Attendance allowance 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

AA New claim decisions 390,800 380,900 340,300 310,900 AA New claim awards successful 324,600 315,500 279,300 249,300 AA New claim success (percentage) 83.1 82.8 82.1 80.2 AA Reconsideration decisions 18,200 16,500 17,700 17,900 AA Reconsideration awards successful 10,600 9,600 9,200 9,000 AA Reconsideration success (percentage) 58.2 58.2 52.0 50.3 AA Appeal decisions to tribunal 3,300 2,800 2,700 3,500 AA Appeal successful 1,000 800 600 900 AA Appeal success (percentage) 30.3 28.6 22.2 25.7 Notes: 1. All figures have been rounded to the nearest hundred. 2. The data provided is for each calendar year January to December. 3. New claims figures also includes claims made under the special rules. 4. The figures provided for the number of new claim applications received and the new claim decisions made were processed in the time period stated only and can not be correlated with each other. This is because of the time lag between claims being received and registered on to the DLA/AA Computer System and a decision being made. This would also be the case where customers have withdrawn their claim prior to a decision being made. 5. The DLA management information on appeal decisions does not enable us to identify the type of decision that the customer is disputing. The appeal figures shown will include appeals against a new claim decision and appeals where the customer is disputing a lower level of benefit or rejection of DLA following re-assessment. Source: Department for Work and Pensions, RDA/AA60209 and RDA/AA60205 reports DLA/AA Management Information Statistics.

Employment Schemes Chris Grayling: Claimants leaving benefits are not required to inform the Department of their destinations Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for and hence the employment outcome information that is Work and Pensions if he will place in the Library a full collected is incomplete. list of providers of mandatory work activity. [90215] Jobcentre Plus has the capability to record a claimant’s refugee status, where this is voluntarily given by the Chris Grayling: The full list of mandatory work activity claimant. The information is collected for internal use providers, broken down by contract package area is as within Jobcentre Plus to help identify barriers to follows; employment and support that the individual may need.

CPA CPA Name Preferred bidder It does not give a complete assessment of the number of refugees that claim benefits or are otherwise in receipt CPA1 South east A4e of DWP services. The information is not published. CPA2 South west Rehab Group CPA3 London Seetec Future Jobs Fund CPA4 East of England Seetec CPA5 East Midlands Ingeus CPA6 West Midlands ESG Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State CPA7 North west JHP Group for Work and Pensions which employers in (a) CPA8 Yorkshire and Humber BEST Peterborough and (b) Cambridgeshire have CPA9 North east Ingeus participated in the Future Jobs Fund programme. CPA10 Scotland JHP Group [90197] CPA11 Wales Rehab Group Chris Grayling: The Department does not hold records Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for of the individual organisations that provided temporary Work and Pensions what are the current maximum and employment through the Future Jobs Fund (FJF). Bids minimum single payments to mandatory work activity for FJF funding were submitted on a regional or national providers. [90216] basis. The lead accountable bodies who were successful in receiving FJF awards in Peterborough and Chris Grayling: The specific amounts paid to individual Cambridgeshire are listed as follows: mandatory work activity providers are commercial in Peterborough confidence. Peterborough city council Employment: Refugees Salvation Army—(as part of a national bid) Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for Football League Trust—(as part of a national bid) Work and Pensions what data his Department holds on National Skills Academy for Sport and Active Leisure—(as employment outcomes for people with refugee status. part of a national bid) [89429] Barnardo’s—(as part of a national bid) 647W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 648W

Cambridgeshire Osteoarthritis of the knee Cambridge county council 2009 2010 2011 Norfolk county council/Renaissance East of England Claims 31,280 10,210 1,110 National Skills Academy for Sport and Active Leisure—(as Assessments leading 3,910 12,270 710 part of a national bid) to payments 3SC—(as part of a national bid) The total claims number is the only information Groundwork and NHF—(as part of a national bid) available on the number of claims for the prescribed Urban Futures—(as part of a national bid) disease A6 (bursitis—commonly known as ‘beat knee’). Community Service Volunteers—(as part of a national bid). The A6 payable assessments figure can be provided for those who worked in the mining and quarrying industry. Housing Benefit A6 Bursitis (beat knee) 2009 2010 2011

David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Work All Claims 1,810 640 80 and Pensions what steps his Department is taking to All Assessments 40 50 10 mitigate the effect of changes in limits on housing leading to payments Mining and 30 40 10 benefits to ensure tenants are not forced to pay the quarrying difference between the rent owed and the claimable assessments leading amount. [89534] to payments Notes: 1. Figures are rounded to the nearest 10. Steve Webb: The Government introduced caps to 2. Claims from people resident overseas are included, local housing allowance rates on 1 April 2011, as part of 3. Figures are provisional and are subject to revision. 4. Comparing claims and payable first assessments will give an estimated wider reforms to control the cost of housing benefit success rate only as decisions on claims submitted are not necessarily made in which reached £21 billion in 2010-11 and, if left unreformed, the same time period. would reach £26 billion in 2014-15. 5. Prescribed disease A14 was introduced from 13 July 2009, and many claims were not decided until 2010. We have put some measures in place to mitigate the 6. Most recent data is the quarter to March 2011. impact of these changes on claimants. They include: Information available for analysis on industrial injuries Those already receiving housing benefit before 1 April 2011 disablement benefit covers a variety of measures including will not normally be affected by the changes until the anniversary new claims, first assessments and case loads, and is date of their claim, with a further nine months transitional published on the Department’s website at: protection. As a result some may have until December 2012 before they are affected. http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/index.php?page=iidb The sum allocated by Government for discretionary housing Quarterly case load information is allocated to geographic payments, which can be paid to those in receipt of housing benefit areas at the level of parliamentary constituency but no who face a shortfall in meeting their contractual rent, has increased prescribed disease/accident split is available from this by £10 million in 2011 and by £40 million a year for the three source of data. The annual case load data does have a following years. So the total discretionary housing payment budget prescribed disease/accident split, however, the latest for 2012-13 is £60 million. This will help local authorities to give data available from this is for March 2008. additional support where they consider it is needed. In addition, over the spending review period, DWP are providing Industrial Injuries: Construction £50 million to support local authorities in the implementation of the housing benefit reforms which came into force on 1 April 2011. This will enable them to give targeted housing support to Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for claimants who may be affected by these changes. Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of Since 1 April 2011, we have temporarily widened local authorities’ recent trends in the number of (a) fatalities and (b) discretion to make payments direct to private landlords where it injuries in the construction industry; and if he will helps a housing benefit claimant to either secure or retain a make a statement. [90284] tenancy. This additional safeguard is intended to be used only where landlords reduce the rent to an affordable level for housing benefit claimants. Chris Grayling: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) publishes annual statistics on the health and safety performance of the construction industry. Industrial Diseases: Compensation There has been a steady and long-term reduction in both numbers and rates of work-related injuries in the John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Work construction industry. In 2006/07 there were 79 workers and Pensions how many claims were submitted for beat killed with a corresponding rate of 3.2 per 100,000 knee and osteoarthritis by former coal miners in (a) compared with provisional figures for 2010/11 showing 2009, (b) 2010 and (c) 2011; and how many of such 50 workers killed and a rate of 2.4. Reported major claims resulted in industrial disease payments in (i) injuries to employees in construction for the same years Bassetlaw constituency and (ii) nationally. [88818] show a drop from 3,742 to 2,298, with a corresponding change in rate from 231.6 to 173.2 per 100,000. Steve Webb: The information is not available at parliamentary constituency level for new claims and Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for claims put into payment. The national number of claims Work and Pensions if he will bring forward proposals and payable assessments for the prescribed disease A14 to reduce the number of (a) fatalities and (b) injuries (osteoarthritis of the knee in underground coal miners) in the construction industry; and if he will make a is as follows: statement. [90285] 649W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 650W

Chris Grayling: Regulation of the construction industry The last meeting of the Joint Ministerial Steering remains a high priority for the Health and Safety Executive Group was on 12 October 2011. and is delivered through an evidence-based programme Social Security Benefits of work. This targets areas of greatest risk and where risk is not appropriately managed. The programme Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Work includes provision of advice and information, inspection, and Pensions (1) how many applications for incapacity enforcement, investigation of incidents and engagement benefit have been made in each of the last four years; with industry bodies to improve health and safety standards and how many were (a) awarded on first application, across the supply chain. (b) awarded after an internal review and (c) awarded after a First Tier Tribunal hearing; [89721] New Deal Schemes (2) how many applications for employment and support allowance have been made in each of the last Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for four years; and how many were (a) awarded on first Work and Pensions when he expects to reach a application, (b) awarded after an internal review and settlement with providers following the early (c) awarded after a First Tier Tribunal hearing; [89722] termination of Flexible New Deal contracts. [90214] (3) how many applications for income support have been made in each of the last four years; and how many Chris Grayling: We have reached a settlement with 12 were (a) awarded on first application, (b) awarded of the 14 former Flexible New Deal providers. Negotiations after an internal review and (c) awarded after a First with the remaining two are ongoing. Tier Tribunal hearing; [89723] (4) how many applications for jobseeker’s allowance PAYE have been made in each of the last four years; and how many were (a) awarded on first application, (b) Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work awarded after an internal review and (c) awarded after and Pensions on what date the Joint Ministerial a First Tier Tribunal hearing. [89725] Steering Group last met to discuss the PAYE Real- Time Information project; and if he will make a Chris Grayling: The total number of applications statement. [89649] received, and subsequently awarded, for incapacity benefit (IB), employment and support allowance (ESA), income Mr Gauke: I have been asked to reply on behalf of support (IS) and jobseeker’s allowance (JSA) for the the Treasury. last four years is detailed in Table 1 as follows:

Table 1: DWP benefit applications and awards, 2008-09 to 2011-12 (to November 2011) 2011-12 (to November 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011)

IB Applications received 1480,000 24,900 11,600 0 Awards 2159,700 20,600 312,500 0

ESA Applications received 4241,800 692,700 715,100 485,300 Awards 4187,300 603,800 603,700 410,800

IS Applications received 836,500 475,300 439,100 266,900 Awards 615,000 367,800 347,400 213,700

JSA Applications received 3,290,300 3,744,500 3,468,100 2,283,200 Awards 2,750,400 3,147,100 2,918,000 1,916,200 1 IB applications received significantly reduced in 2008-09 due to the introduction of ESA in October 2008. 2 IB awards appear low relative to applications received in 2008-09 because the data only capture claimants awarded IB based on their contributions record. The remaining claimants may well have made a successful application to IS on incapacity grounds due to having insufficient contributions to be entitled to IB. 3 We awarded more IB claims than received in 2010-11 as we completed processing all claims outstanding from the year before, while IB was closed to new claims. 4 ESA was only introduced in October 2008. Note: MISP is the Department’s internal performance management, data capture and reporting tool. This type of information does not form part of the official statistics outputs that are released by the Department in accordance with the UK Statistics Authority’s Code of Practice. The data can be subject to refresh. Source: DWP’s Management Information System Program (MISP),12 January 2012. 651W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 652W

There are many reasons why there is a difference Table 2 as follows shows the total number of IB, between the number of claims received and the number ESA, JSA and IS appeals administered by Her Majesty’s awarded in any given year; this is not limited to claimant’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) in the past four not meeting the conditions of entitlement. Other reasons years. However, HMCTS does not record the issue include, but are not limited to, claims not being fully under appeal and therefore cannot isolate data relating processed within a single tax year or claimants withdrawing specifically to appeals on the basis of a claim for benefit applications. having been refused. Information on awards made after an internal review is not available.

Table 2: HMCTS appeal outcomes for selected DWP benefits, 2008-09 to 2011-12 (to October 2011) 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 (to October 2011) Number Number Number Number decided in decided in decided in decided in Cases cleared favour of Cases cleared favour of Cases cleared favour of Cases cleared favour of Appeal type at hearing appellant at hearing appellant at hearing appellant at hearing appellant

IB 62,900 31,700 47,200 24,100 31,200 15,600 15,100 7,700 ESA 27 1 50,800 19,000 127,100 47,600 96,900 36,600 JSA 9,200 2,300 17,500 3,100 27,500 3,600 20,100 3,000 IS 12,200 4,000 11,800 3,400 10,500 3,000 5,300 1,400 Source: HMCTS Management Information System, 2011 and published data.

Social Security Benefits: Fraud Data on the assessment outcomes of the incapacity benefits reassessment programme are not available. Due Mr Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Work to the overall length of the incapacity benefits reassessment and Pensions how many people resident in Bexleyheath process, information on the process including the final and Crayford constituency have been prosecuted for outcomes is not yet available. Individual level data are (a) benefit fraud and (b) related offences in each of being collected and the Department plans to publish the last three years. [89370] data on the outcomes of the reassessment process once they have been fully quality assured. Chris Grayling: Prosecution data specific to your Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS), Bexleyheath and Crayford constituency is not available. who administer social security appeals, do not hold any data specific to the Glasgow North constituency. While Social Security Benefits: Glasgow North the majority of DLA, ESA and IB appeals made by people in this constituency are heard in the hearing Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for venue in Glasgow North, this venue also hears appeals Work and Pensions how many and what proportion of from other nearby locations. recipients of (a) disability living allowance, (b) The following table shows the number of appeals employment and support allowance and (c) incapacity received in the Glasgow North tribunal venue for DLA, benefit in Glasgow North constituency who have had ESA, ESA (IB Reassessment) and IB from January claims refused have taken their case to tribunal in each 2011 to October 2011 (the latest date for which information month since January 2011. [89886] is available). The tribunal does not record the issue under appeal and therefore cannot isolate data relating Maria Miller: We are unable to provide information to appeals on the basis of a claim for benefit having on recipients of disability living allowance (DLA) in been refused. Glasgow North constituency whose claims have been refused, and have taken their case to tribunal. This is Note that the figures in the table cannot be used in because this level of detail is not mutually reported and combination with the figures on ESA provided above, to obtain this would be at disproportionate cost to the since they relate to a different time period and do not Department. cover claims from the same geographical area.

Data on outcomes of assessments for employment Cases received by HMCTS in Glasgow North and support allowance (ESA) are not available for the Appeal type venue (January to October 2011) Glasgow North parliamentary constituency. However data are available for the Glasgow City unitary authority DLA 1,900 area. Between January 2011 and May 2011 (the latest ESA 3,400 data available) there were approximately 4,200 people ESA (IB reassessment) 100 from the Glasgow City unitary authority area who IB 400 underwent an initial work capability assessment (WCA) All appeals 5,700 Notes: for ESA. Of these approximately 2,800, or 66%, were 1. The Department regularly publishes data on ESA and WCA. The latest assessed as being fit for work and therefore not eligible publication can be found on the departmental website at: for ESA. http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/workingage/index.php?page=esa_wca 2. Data on ESA assessments and outcomes are taken from administrative data The equivalent information for incapacity benefit held by the Department for Work and Pensions and assessment data provided (IB) is not available since IB was replaced by ESA in by Atos Healthcare. 3. Appeals data are taken from HMCTS management information. October 2008 and any new claims received after this 4. Figures have been rounded to the nearest 100 and percentages to the nearest date were directed to claim ESA instead. percentage point. 653W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 654W

Universal Credit Chris Grayling: In the Government’s response to Professor Harrington’s second independent review of the Work Capability Assessment (WCA), we announced Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for our intention to consult on our proposals for changing Work and Pensions what data on savings held by the WCA for cancer sufferers. An informal consultation individuals he will use to apply the proposed capital was launched on 16 December 2011, which will run limits for universal credit. [90212] until 9 March 2012. The evidence will then be properly considered by the Department and we will publish a Chris Grayling: Claimants will be asked when making response document in spring 2012. This document will a claim to universal credit to provide details of any set out the evidence received and announce any proposals capital they have. For universal credit capital will include for changing the WCA. savings, stocks and shares, property and trusts. It will not include property occupied by the claimant as his or Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for her main home, personal injury payments placed in Work and Pensions how many responses his trust funds, certain other compensation payments, personal Department has received to date to its consultation pension schemes and retirement annuity contracts; or entitled Work Capability Assessment: accounting for business assets. the effects of cancer treatment. [90311] Chris Grayling: To date we have received 12 responses Work Capability Assessments to the consultation. The consultation runs until 9 March 2012 and during this time we are seeking views from Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for interested stakeholders, particularly from individuals Work and Pensions how many work capability who have been or are being affected by cancer, their assessments he expects to have been completed for families and carers, health care practitioners and cancer people previously in receipt of incapacity benefit by the specialists, and employers. end of (a) 2012, (b) each quarter of 2012 and (c) each month of 2012. [90213] Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions with reference to page 12 of the Government’s response to Professor Malcolm Chris Grayling: The information in the table can only Harrington’s Second Independent Review of the Work ever be a forecast. In 2012 we expect the number of Capability Assessment, (1) when he last met (a) Mind, people, currently in receipt of incapacity benefit, who (b) Mencap and (c) the National Autistic Society to will receive a work capability assessment to be as follows: discuss changes to the ESA50 questionnaire; [90313]

Number (2) what progress he has made on possible changes to the ESA50 questionnaire in relation to individuals with (a) By end of 2012 322,388 mental health conditions. [90314] (b) Each quarter of 2012 80,598 (c) Each month in 2012 26,866 Chris Grayling: I met with representatives of Mind, Mencap and the National Autistic Society, together with Professor Tom Sensky who chaired Professor Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Harrington’s scrutiny group which worked with the Work and Pensions with reference to page 11 of the charities in developing their recommendations, on Government’s response to Professor Malcolm 12 September 2011. We discussed whether we could Harrington’s Second Independent Review of the Work integrate into the ESA50 some of the principles of the Capability Assessment, for what reasons Macmillan recommendations which the charities had made to Professor Cancer Support did not support the Government’s Harrington. proposals in relation to people with cancer. [90309] Since that meeting the charities have met with officials from the Department for Work and Pensions on 13 October Chris Grayling: As a result of evidence supplied by 2011 and 15 December 2011 to discuss the changes in Macmillan Cancer Support (Macmillan), the Department detail. Good progress has been made, and an updated developed proposals for changing the way in which the version of the form has been drafted. Work Capability Assessment assesses individuals being Further consultation and testing will be carried out treated for cancer. We had hoped to introduce these to ensure the changes have the desired result of helping proposals in April 2012. However, following detailed to collect the best possible evidence ahead of a Work discussions with Macmillan, we have been unable to Capability Assessment. Our intention is that an updated secure their support to our proposals. version of the ESA50 will go live later this year. Why Macmillan were unable to support our proposals Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for is an issue for Macmillan, not for the Department, to Work and Pensions with reference to page 17 of the address. Government’s response to Professor Malcolm Harrington’s Second Independent Review of the Work Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Capability Assessment, what assessment he has made Work and Pensions with reference to page 11 of the of the changes to the descriptors in March 2011. Government’s response to Professor Malcolm [90324] Harrington’s Second Independent Review of the Work Capability Assessment, what his timetable is for the Chris Grayling: Changes were made to the descriptors introduction of new proposals on people with cancer in in March 2011 following a Department-led review of receipt of employment and support allowance. [90310] the work capability assessment (WCA). The Department 655W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 656W modelled and published details of the expected effects The commitment to proceed with enshrining 0.7% in of these changes as part of the Department-led review. law was subsequently included in all three main parties’ As with any changes to the WCA, the Department manifestoes at the 2010 general election. monitors the effects of the changes closely. Monitoring The Government remains committed to doing so, as of the WCA is done through a number of different set out in “The Coalition: our programme for government”. means, including through annual independent reviews, internal monitoring and analysis, and auditing of Atos Famine: International Co-operation Healthcare. Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Experience International Development what discussions he has had with his (a) European, (b) Commonwealth and Mr Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Work (c) other international counterparts on endorsing the and Pensions how many young people in (a) Charter to End Extreme Hunger. [89588] Bexleyheath and Crayford constituency and (b) Greater London have participated in his Department’s Mr Duncan: The Government supports the aim of work experience programme. [89372] the Charter to End Extreme Hunger, which is to reduce Chris Grayling: Between January and August 2011, the likelihood of crises such as that currently affecting there were 3,700 starts on work experience in London the Horn of Africa taking place in the future. Analysis and the home counties. conducted by the Department for International The Department does not publish work experience Development concluded that of the Charter’s 13 information at constituency level. recommendations, the Government are already carrying out seven and considering another two. The four remaining recommendations we deem to be unworkable. The Secretary of State for International Development, my right hon. INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Friend the Member for Sutton Coldfield (Mr Mitchell), Departmental Public Expenditure wrote in November to the non-governmental organisations behind the Charter to let them know that therefore the Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Government would not formally endorse the Charter. International Development what assessment his The issue has not been raised in discussions with his Department has made of the potential effects of the international counterparts. reduction to its budget announced in the Autumn In at-risk areas such as the Horn, the Government Statement; and if he will place in the Library the full are already supporting the strengthened warning systems, content of any such assessment. [89160] resilience to disasters and stability that the Charter calls for. In Ethiopia, for example, we are helping 7.8 million Mr Andrew Mitchell: The potential effects of the people to break their need for emergency aid by providing reduction in the budget announced in the autumn statement support before food insecurity reaches famine levels. is that the Government will not exceed their commitment The Secretary of State for International Development to meet the target for international development spending has also mobilised a group of high level political champions of 0.7% of gross national income (GNI) from 2013. to make sure that much greater attention is given to Departmental Temporary Employment disaster resilience in order to reduce the likelihood of similar crises taking place in the future—both in the Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Horn of Africa and elsewhere. International Development how many temporary staff were recruited to his Department between September Food Aid and November 2011. [88001] Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Duncan: A total of 30 temporary staff (15 in International Development if he will make it his policy September, 13 in October and two in November) were to endorse the Save the Children Charter to End recruited into the Department for International Extreme Hunger. [89786] Development between September and November 2011. All posts were considered by an Approvals Panel as Mr Duncan: The Government supports the aim of Business Critical—to provide surge capacity or to cover the Charter to End Extreme Hunger, which is to reduce for the temporary absence of key staff. the likelihood of crises such as that currently affecting the Horn of Africa taking place in the future. In at-risk Development Aid areas such as the Horn, we are already supporting the strengthened warning systems, resilience to disasters Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for and stability that the Charter calls for. In Ethiopia, for International Development what plans he has to example, we are helping 7.8 million people to break launch a public consultation on his plan to enshrine in their need for emergency aid by providing support law the UK’s commitment to spend 0.7 per cent. of before food insecurity reaches famine levels. gross national income on overseas aid. [88045] Analysis conducted by the Department for International Mr Duncan: A draft Bill to enshrine the UK’s Development concluded that of the Charter’s 13 commitment on spending 0.7% gross national income commitments, the Government are already carrying out (GNI) on Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) seven and considering another two. The four remaining from 2013 onwards into law underwent full parliamentary commitments we deem to be unworkable. The Secretary scrutiny by the International Development Select of State for International Development, my right hon. Committee in 2009-10. Friend the Member for Sutton Coldfield (Mr Mitchell), 657W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 658W wrote in November to the non-governmental organisations Bradford behind the Charter to note therefore that while the Dewsbury Government will not formally endorse the Charter, he Doncaster will take appropriate opportunities to express publicly Halifax his support for the Charter’s aims. Heckmondwike Huddersfield HOME DEPARTMENT Hull Keighley Asylum Leeds Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for the Normanton Home Department whether her Department plans to Ossett review the town and cities which are used as dispersal Pontefract areas for asylum seekers; and when any such review will Rotherham take place. [89314] Sheffield Damian Green: There are no plans to conduct a Shipley formal review. However, accommodation providers are Wakefield contractually required to maintain ongoing consultation London arrangements with local authorities and heath, education Hastings and housing authorities in the areas where the asylum Oxford seekers are placed. This means that the impact of the Portsmouth dispersal policy on the particular area is regularly assessed. Southampton Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for the Southsea Home Department which towns and cities are St Leonards on Sea designated as dispersal areas for asylum seekers. Altringham [89315] Ashton Under Lyne Damian Green: The towns and cities that are currently Blackburn used to accommodate destitute asylum seekers are: Bolton Derby Bury Leicester Cheadle Nottingham Darwen Ipswich Heywood Luton Norwich Hyde Peterborough Leigh Waltham Cross Liverpool Westcliff on Sea Manchester Bilston Oldham Birmingham Rochdale Brierly Hill Salford Coventry Stalybridge Dudley Stockport Oldbury Rowley Regis Smethwick Stoke on Trent Warrington Tipton Wigan Walsall Belfast Wednesbury Glasgow West Bromwich Bristol Willenhal Gloucester Wolverhampton Swindon Gateshead Plymouth Hartlepool Cardiff Hebburn Newport Jarrow Middlesbrough Swansea Newcastle Upon Tyne Wrexham. North Shields South Shields Departmental Manpower Stockton on Tees Sunderland Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for the Wallsend Home Department how many speechwriters her Barnsley Department employs at each pay grade. [89382] 659W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 660W

Damian Green: The Home Office employs one Directives 2011/36/EU—Of the European Parliament and of speechwriter at Grade 7 level. No other speechwriters the Council on preventing and combating trafficking in human are employed by the Home Office. beings and protecting its victims, replacing Council Framework Decision 2002/629/JHA. Departmental Redundancy Pay Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes. Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for the In addition, an order under S2(2) of European Home Department how much redundancy pay was Communities Act 1972 is required to ensure that the paid to civil servants in her Department in each month Equality Act 2010 is, like its predecessor legislation, fully compliant with the following directives in respect between September and November 2011. [87988] of protection from victimisation following a relationship: Damian Green: This information in the form requested Directive 2000/43 (Race). is not available. Directive 2006/54 (Recast Directive on equal treatment for men and women in employment and occupation). During the period in question, £877,000 was charged to the Home Department in relation to voluntary Directive 2004/113 (equal treatment for men and women in the redundancies. This figure includes both payments made provision of goods, facilities and services. to individuals and payments made into the pension Directive 2000/78 (Framework Directive on equal treatment in employment and occupation irrespective of age, disability, religion fund to enable qualifying staff access to their current or belief, sexual orientation). accrued pension. There is also a body of EU legislation in the area of Deportation police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters, adopted prior to the entry into force of the Lisbon treaty, against which the Government are currently Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for reviewing transposition obligations. These measures will the Home Department what steps she is taking to acquire full European Court of Justice jurisdiction in ensure that once an overstayer is brought to the 2014. The UK must decide whether to accept such attention of the UK Border Agency, actions are put in jurisdiction or withdraw from the measures. place to update their records and instigate deportation. [90001] The Government are increasingly using impact assessments and associated control mechanisms (including Damian Green: The procedures the UK Border Agency a new Cabinet Committee and external scrutiny body) has in place for dealing with all categories of immigration to control the costs of policy proposals. Specific emphasis offenders, including overstayers, are set out in the is also being placed on avoiding “gold-plating” when Enforcement Instructions and Guidance (EIG) manual transposing EU measures and the Government are alert available to view on the UK Border Agency website at: to the need to “push back” on EU proposals which may have an adverse economic effect. Details of projected http://www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk/policyandlaw/guidance/ enforcement/ costs arising from the transposition of the biometric residence permit regulation, the human trafficking directive Overstayers are normally liable to administrative removal and the directive on the protection of animals for rather than deportation, and chapters 50 and 51 explain scientific purposes can be found in the respective impact the process for serving notices on such offenders and assessments, which are publicly available. their removal. With regard to plans for further UK legislation to Cases are considered on an individual basis. When, ensure that the Equality Act 2010 is fully compliant however, an overstayer comes to attention, he would with EU law, the Government intend to lay an Order in generally be served with a notice that explains his the House in due course. An impact assessment will liability to removal from the UK. Consideration would accompany the Order, setting out any estimated compliance also be given as to whether detention is appropriate. cost on businesses and public authorities. Where detention is not appropriate that person will be placed on reporting restrictions. Information is recorded on the UK Border Agency Case Information Database. Extradition: Republic of Ireland Cases are progressed to removal by the UK Border Agency, who will manage any barriers to removal. Mr Donaldson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many extradition requests the EU Law UK has made to the Republic of Ireland in relation to alleged scheduled terrorist offences in each year from Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the 1980 to 1998; and how many such requests were (a) Home Department which EU (a) directives, (b) declined and (b) approved by the Republic of Ireland. regulations and (c) other legislation affecting her [89583] Department require transposition into UK law; and what estimate she has made of the cost to (i) the public Damian Green: This information is not held centrally. purse and (ii) the private sector of such measures. Prior to 1 January 2004, when the European arrest [89673] warrant came into force, extradition between the UK and the Republic of Ireland was governed by the Backing Damian Green: The following EU regulations and of Warrants (Republic of Ireland) Act 1965. The Act directives required transposition into UK law: operated on a police-to-police basis and, as such there Council Regulation, (EC) No. 380/2008 of 18 April 2008 was no Home Office involvement. However, Home Office amends Regulation (EC) No. 1030/2002 which lays down a uniform officials have examined historical records and consulted format for residence permits for third-country nationals. with colleagues in the Northern Ireland Office and the 661W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 662W

Police Service of Northern Ireland, and between 1980 manual examination of files would have to take place. and 1998, at least 65 requests were made to the Republic This would incur disproportionate cost. of Ireland from the UK (excluding Scotland). At least Since April 2009 there have been no Part 3 requests 17 people were arrested, and six were extradited back to made to the Republic of Ireland where the principal the UK. The extant records do not reveal whether any offence is given as terrorism. of these requests were formally declined. Firearms: Licensing Mr Donaldson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many extradition requests the John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for the UK has made to the Republic of Ireland in relation to Home Department how many people are licensed to alleged scheduled terrorist offences from 1999 to 2010; own firearms in each parliamentary constituency. and how many such extradition requests were declined [88843] by the Republic of Ireland. [89584] Nick Herbert: The information requested can be provided Damian Green: The information for the period 1999 only at disproportionate cost. to 2003 is not held centrally. Prior to 1 January 2004, when the European arrest warrant (EAW) came into Firearm certificates information by police force area force, extradition between the UK and the Republic of can be found in Firearm Certificates in England and Ireland was governed by the Backing of Warrants (Republic Wales 2009-10, available in the Library of the House of Ireland) Act 1965. The Act operated on a police-to-police and the Home Office Science website at: basis and, as such there was no Home Office involvement. http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/science-research/research- However, Home Office officials have examined historical statistics records and consulted with colleagues in the Northern The next publication containing data for 2010-11 is Ireland Office and the Police Service of Northern Ireland, scheduled to be published in March 2012. and between 1999 and 2003 there are no records of such requests being made or declined. Human Trafficking The Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service for Michael Connarty: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland are the designated UK authorities responsible the Home Department in which region each suspected for processing European arrest warrants (EAWs). victim of human trafficking referred to the Trafficking Information is held on Part 1 cases (persons wanted Victim Support Scheme run by the Salvation Army in from the UK by another member state) and Part 3 cases (a) September and (b) October 2011 was found; what (persons wanted by the UK from another member their nationality was; and which agency or charity state). referred each case to the scheme. [81449] Information on the number of Part 3 requests made under an EAW by offence type is only available from Mr Blunt: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the April 2009 due to a change in the way data were Department for Justice. recorded from this date. For cases before this date, a The following tables set out the information requested.

(a) Referrals received in September 2011 Nationality Region Referring organisation

Lesotho South East Charity Lithuanian South East Charity Romanian West Midlands NHS Romanian South East NHS Polish Yorkshire Charity Slovakian South West Social services Slovakian North West Police Romanian South East Charity Nigerian South East Prison service Slovakian Yorkshire Charity Slovakian Yorkshire Charity UK East Police UK East Police Polish East Police Polish East Police UK East Police Polish East Police UK East Police Latvian East Police Polish East Police UK East Police UK East Police Lithuanian East Police UK East Police 663W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 664W

(a) Referrals received in September 2011 Nationality Region Referring organisation

UK East Police UK East Police Nigerian South East Prison service Nigerian South East Police Slovakian Yorkshire Charity Slovakian Yorkshire Charity Slovakian Yorkshire Charity Polish Yorkshire Social services Czech Yorkshire Charity Czech South East Self-referral Polish Yorkshire Charity Polish Yorkshire Charity Hungarian South East Police Hungarian South East Police Hungarian South East Police Hungarian South East Police Czech West Midlands Police Slovakian South East Police Romanian South East Police Nigerian South East Police Nigerian Wales Legal representative Romanian West Midlands NHS Romanian West Midlands NHS Chinese South West Charity Romanian West Midlands Police Vietnamese South East Legal representative Ghanaian South East Charity Slovakian Yorkshire Charity Nigerian Yorkshire Charity Nigerian Yorkshire Charity Sri Lankan South East Charity Romanian South East Police Chinese South East UK Human Trafficking Centre

(b) Referrals received in October 2011 Nationality Region Referring organisation

Nigerian East UK Border Agency Latvian South West Police Slovakian Yorkshire Police Nigerian East Charity Bangladeshi South East Charity Chinese East Police Hungarian East Midlands Police Polish Yorkshire Charity Chinese South East Charity Latvian North West Police Latvian North West Police Albanian South East Social services Romanian South East Charity South African South East NHS Nigerian South East Charity St Lucian South East Police Jamaican South East Social services Ugandan South East Police Ghanaian South East Charity Guinean Yorkshire Charity Ugandan Wales UK Border Agency Vietnamese North West Legal representative Romanian South East Police Slovakian Yorkshire Charity Romanian South East Social services Romanian South East Social services Romanian South East Social services 665W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 666W

(b) Referrals received in October 2011 Nationality Region Referring organisation

Albanian South West UK Human Trafficking Centre Guinean South East UK Border Agency Slovakian South East Charity

Members: Correspondence Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the cost to the public purse of Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State providing taxi services for visitors to Morton Hall for the Home Department when she plans to reply immigration removal centre was in the latest period for to the letter of 24 November 2011 from the right which figures are available; and how many such hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton with regard to journeys have been paid for from the public purse. Mr S. A. Sadoon. [90268] [89763]

Damian Green: I refer the right hon. Member to my Damian Green: All costs, including those related to letter of 16 January 2012. the provision of taxi services for visitors at the Morton Hall immigration removal centre, are funded by the UK Morton Hall Immigration Removal Centre Border Agency (UKBA) from within the single annual service level agreement payment to the National Offender Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Management Service as the operator of the establishment. Home Department how much the UK Border Agency UKBA does not routinely request a breakdown of the paid the National Offender Management Service for elements of the service level agreement payment to the the service level agreement to operate the Morton Hall level of detail requested. Such analysis could be provided immigration removal centre. [89758] only at disproportionate cost.

Damian Green: Morton Hall immigration removal Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the centre is run by the National Offender Management Home Department what the cost to the public purse Service on behalf of the UK Border Agency. was of the educational and recreational activities UK Border Agency will pay £10,680,000 to the National provided to detainees at Morton Hall immigration Offender Management Service in 2011-12 under the removal centre in the latest period for which figures are service level agreement for the running of Morton Hall available. [89764] immigration removal centre. The UK Border Agency will also pay £491,244 to the National Offender Damian Green: All costs, including those related to Management Service in 2011-12 for the start-up costs. educational and recreational activities provided to detainees at the Morton Hall immigration removal centre, are Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the funded by the UK Border Agency (UKBA) from within Home Department what the cost to the public purse of the single annual service level agreement payment to the refurbishing Morton Hall was prior to it being National Offender Management Service as the operator operated as an immigration removal centre. [89759] of the establishment. UKBA does not routinely request a breakdown of the elements of the service level agreement Damian Green: The cost of refurbishing Morton Hall payment to the level of detail requested. Such analysis for use as an immigration removal centre was £5.76 million. could be provided only at disproportionate cost. This figure includes all IT provision, fixtures and fittings, additional security works, fees and consultancy, as well Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the as building and upgrade works. Home Department how many people have been detained at Morton Hall Immigration Removal Centre Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the since it opened; and how many such people have Home Department how many detainees at the Morton subsequently left the UK. [89765] Hall immigration removal centre have been transferred to (a) a different location and (b) a prison as a result of disciplinary matters. [89761] Damian Green: The requested information is not available. There were 456 people entering detention, Damian Green: The UK Border Agency aims to keep solely under Immigration Act powers at Morton Hall the number of transfers between its places of detention from 16 May 2011 (the date Morton Hall opened) to to a minimum. Inevitably, there are occasions when 30 September 2011, the latest date for which information detainees are moved for a variety of reasons. These may has been published. These figures are of people who be because their behaviour requires them to be held in a have entered Morton Hall as the first place of detention more secure environment, because they are required for and exclude people transferred into Morton Hall from an interview at a particular centre or because they are other immigration removal centres. being moved close to an airport for their removal from Morton Hall was the last place of detention for 155 the UK. people who left immigration detention between 16 May The reasons for moving detainees are not recorded and 30 September 2011, the latest date for which centrally and would require examination of each individual information has been published. Of these, 39 have record in order to provide the answer, which would be at subsequently been removed. These figures exclude people disproportionate cost. who have been transferred to other immigration removal 667W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 668W centres before leaving detention. Data on all persons These figures are the latest available, and are taken who have left Morton Hall and have subsequently been from paper 3.1 in the Compendium of reoffending removed are not available. statistics and analysis, published on 4 November 2010. The Home Office publishes quarterly and annual The yearly breakdowns have been combined because statistics on the number of people entering and leaving in any single year the number of patients discharged for detention, held solely under Immigration Act powers. the first time and who went on to be reconvicted is too Q4 2011 detention figures will be published on 23 February small for robust analysis. Caution should be exercised 2012 and will be available from the Library of the when interpreting the reconviction figures provided, House and from the Home Office Science, Research which represent only those patients first discharged and and Statistics web pages at: matched on the Police National Computer and therefore do not capture all patients discharged into the community http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/science-research/research- statistics/migration/migration-statistics1/ in a given year or take into account recalls. This answer is limited to re-offending by restricted Offenders: Mental Illness patients, data on re-offending by other patients detained under the Mental Health Act 1983 (civil patients and patients subject to an unrestricted hospital order) is not Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for the collated centrally. Home Department pursuant to the answer of Police: Manpower 19 December 2011, Official Report, columns 1044-6W, on mental health: patients, how many of those released Mr Hanson: To ask the Secretary of State for the after having been detained under the Mental Health Home Department how many CID officers there were Act 1983 have been convicted of a crime in each of the in each police force (a) on 5 October 2010 and (b) in last three years. [89628] the most recent period for which figures are available. [90015] Mr Blunt: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the Nick Herbert: These data are collected centrally at Department for Justice. the end and midpoint of a financial year and are Just over 1,700 restricted patients were discharged for therefore unavailable specifically for 5 October 2010. the first time by the Mental Health Review Tribunal or The latest available information shows the number of with the consent of the then Secretary of State between police officers within CID and CID specialist crime unit 1999 and 2007. Of these, 1,550 offenders were found on functions (full-time equivalent), by police force area in the Police National Computer (PNC) data held by the England and Wales, as at 31 March 2011. Staff with Ministry of Justice, and 5.8% of these were found to multiple responsibilities are recorded under their primary have been reconvicted within two years of their discharge. role or function.

Police officer CID functions-(FTE)2 in England and Wales as at 31 March 20113 CID4 CID specialist crime units5

Avon and Somerset 376 0 Bedfordshire 180 50 Cambridgeshire 207 45 Cheshire 232 118 Cleveland 190 0 Cumbria 91 19 Derbyshire 255 94 Devon and Cornwall 472 0 Dorset 115 45 Durham 96 44 Dyfed-Powys 89 6 Essex 365 83 Gloucestershire 128 0 Greater Manchester 862 325 Gwent 89 58 Hampshire 331 106 Hertfordshire 308 57 Humberside 338 0 Kent 428 75 Lancashire 396 100 Leicestershire 235 105 Lincolnshire 128 3 London, City of 98 0 Merseyside 308 272 Metropolitan Police 3,817 106 Norfolk 203 28 Northamptonshire 167 27 Northumbria 384 98 North Wales 114 45 669W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 670W

Police officer CID functions-(FTE)2 in England and Wales as at 31 March 20113 CID4 CID specialist crime units5

North Yorkshire 117 0 Nottinghamshire 330 0 South Wales 344 93 South Yorkshire 357 141 Staffordshire 283 48 Suffolk 132 37 Surrey 199 149 Sussex 319 8 Thames Valley 512 2 Warwickshire 121 0 West Mercia 242 61 West Midlands 825 16 West Yorkshire 292 252 Wiltshire 124 5 1 Staff with multiple responsibilities (or designations) are recorded under their primary role or function. The deployment of police officers is an operational matter for individual chief constables. 2 This table contains full-time equivalent figures that have been rounded to the nearest whole number. Because of rounding, there may be an apparent discrepancy between the totals in this table and totals in similar published tables. 3 Data are correct as at 12 July 2011. 4 Definition of the CID function: Staff mainly employed in plain clothes or supporting those employed in plain clothes for the investigation of crime. Staff who predominantly investigate crime or support the investigation of crime and who are not shown under other specific squad headings. Does not include members of a squad set up on an ad hoc basis to deal with a temporary or local problem. These are included under their normal category. Includes officers formerly recorded as ‘CID aides/trainee investigators’, i.e. includes officers temporarily seconded to CID but not those on short attachments for familiarisation or assessment purposes. Includes staff who are predominantly employed on administrative, clerical or other support duties on behalf of general CID, asset confiscation, burglary, drugs, fraud, stolen vehicles, vice or other permanent CID squads. Includes those officers/staff in supporting roles. 5 Definition of the CID specialist units function: Includes any specialist squads or units, analysts or administrative assistants employed not specifically mentioned elsewhere, e.g. robbery, major crime units.

Prisoners: Repatriation In 2009: FRS accounted for around 30% of removals—5,530 In 2010: FRS accounted for around 50% of removals—5,342 Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how much her Department Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the spent on grants under the Facilitated Returns Scheme Home Department (1) what the 20 largest sums paid to in each year since 2006; [89750] individuals under the Facilitated Returns Scheme have (2) how much her Department spent on been in each year since 2006; [89753] administering the Facilitated Returns Scheme in each (2) how many individuals awarded grants under the year since 2006. [89751] Facilitated Returns Scheme there were (a) who did not leave the UK and (b) whose location is unknown in Damian Green: In her letter of 4 February 2010, Lin each year since 2006. [89754] Homer, the former chief executive of the UK Border Agency, informed the Home Affairs Select Committee Damian Green: Information on the sums paid to (HASC) that the cost of running the Facilitated Return individuals under the Facilitated Return Scheme since Scheme from inception in October 2006 to March 2009 2006 is not held centrally and would incur a review of was approximately £4.3 million. A further letter to the individual files at a disproportionate cost. The largest HASC of 9 December 2010, advised that the cost of the amount offered under the Facilitated Return Scheme Facilitated Return Scheme in 2009-10 was £7.1 million was £5,000 but the offer of this amount ceased on (inclusive of £2.3 million of EU funding). The cost of 1 October 2010 for new applications. The largest amount the Facilitated Return Scheme for 2010-11 was £13 million now available is £1,500. No individual will have received (inclusive of EU funding of £2.7 million). amounts in excess of these figures. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Funds are only given at the point of departure so that Home Department how many foreign nationals have individuals who do not leave are not able to access been awarded grants under the Facilitated Grants grants under the Facilitated Return Scheme if they fail Scheme in each year since 2006; and to which countries to leave the UK. they were returned. [89752] Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Damian Green: The top six countries taking up the Home Department (1) how many individuals awarded Facilitated Return Scheme are Vietnam, Nigeria, China, grants under the Facilitated Returns Scheme have Jamaica, India and Pakistan. subsequently returned to the UK; [89755] Information on the number of foreign nationals awarded (2) how many individuals have been awarded more grants under the Facilitated Return Scheme since 2006 than one grant under the Facilitated Returns Scheme in and the countries to which they were deported is not each year since 2006. [89756] held centrally and collation would incur a review of individual files at a disproportionate cost. However, the Damian Green: All individuals who meet the deportation overall percentage of those removed under the Facilitated criteria and leave the UK under the Facilitated Returns Return Scheme from 2007-10 are as follows: Scheme are fingerprinted. They are placed on Watch In 2007: FRS accounted for around 30% of removals—4,200 Lists in order to prevent them from returning to the UK In 2008: FRS accounted for around 30% of removals—5,395 after removal. Information is not centrally held of those 671W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 672W who may circumvent the immigration controls and return Lynne Featherstone: Under section 25 of the Policing clandestinely or use other identities to gain entry UK. and Crime Act 2009 (which came into force in April This would incur review of individual files at a 2010) only those offenders subject to a worldwide foreign disproportionate cost. travel order (FTO) can be required to surrender their A foreign national is not able to benefit from the passport. A search of the ViSOR database (a UK-wide Facilitated Returns Scheme on more than one occasion. system, managed by the National Policing Improvement Agency, which is used to store and share information Proceeds of Crime Act 2000 and manage those individuals who have been identified as posing a risk of serious harm to the public) has Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the shown that there are fewer than five offenders who have Home Department how many orders were (a) applied been required to do this. for and (b) granted under the provisions of the Decisions on whether to apply to the magistrates Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 in each of the last five court for an FTO are an operational matter for the years; and how many of these were sought in cases of police, where they consider there to be a risk of harm to over-fishing. [89845] children overseas. Nick Herbert: The total number of orders granted The Policing and Crime Act 2009 introduced under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 in England, amendments to increase the protection offered by Foreign Wales and Northern Ireland for the last five years was Travel Orders, including: 26,065, with a combined value of £1.2 billion. The increasing the duration an order can be issued for from six information held centrally is based on the value of all months to five years; crimes and it is not possible to break down the figures increasing the age threshold of a child who must be at risk to the detail sought. before a FTO is made from 16 to 18 years old; and automatically removing passports from individuals who are Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the subject to a blanket FTO banning them from travelling abroad to Home Department how much revenue was received any country in the world. under the provisions of the Proceeds of Crime We continue to keep the available tools and powers in Act 2002 from cases of over-fishing in each region in this area under review and the Government are doing each of the last five years. [89846] everything we can to tighten the law on sex offenders and protect the public both in the UK and abroad. Nick Herbert: This information is not held centrally. That is why we have recently consulted on strengthening Prostitution: Greater London notification requirements for registered sex offenders still further, including making it compulsory for registered Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State sex offenders to notify the police of all foreign travel for the Home Department how many brothel closures (currently only travel of three days or more is notified). there have been as a result of intervention by police We will be making an announcement on the outcome of public protection teams in each London borough in this consultation shortly. each month since January 2010. [90255] Specialist Crime Division 9 Damian Green: This information is not held centrally. Scrap Metal: North East Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans she has for the Mr Marsden: To ask the Secretary of State for the future of Specialist Crime Division 9 after the London Home Department when she plans to assess the pilot 2012 London Olympics. [90254] project in the North East requiring identification from vendors of scrap metal. [90404] Nick Herbert: As a unit within the Metropolitan police, any plans for the future of Specialist Crime Damian Green: Operation Tornado, the pilot project Division 9 are the responsibility of the Metropolitan that was launched on 6 January 2012, will run for six Police Commissioner. months. The British Transport police will provide the Home Office with regular assessments during the course of the project. Theft: Metals

Sexual Offences: Travel Restrictions Mr Marsden: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions her Department Clive Efford: To ask the Secretary of State for the has had with the British Metals Recycling Association Home Department (1) how many child sex offenders on stricter self-regulation of scrap metal dealing. have had their passports withheld since the Policing [90405] and Crime Act 2009 came into force; and if she will make a statement; [90278] Damian Green: The Home Office has regular (2) what assessment she has made of the use of discussions with the British Metals Recycling Association worldwide travel orders for child sex offenders; and if on action that their members can take to make self- she will make a statement; [90279] regulation more effective. This resulted, for example, in (3) what recent assessment she has made of the the implementation of a new code of conduct in 2010. effectiveness of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 in The Government are now considering whether tackling preventing child sex offenders from travelling abroad. the problem of metal theft is likely to require new [90280] legislation. 673W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 674W

Mr Marsden: To ask the Secretary of State for the Damian Green: Home Office officials are discussing Home Department what assessment she has made of the role of local authorities in tackling metal theft with the effect of permitting cash-based transactions on the the Department for Communities and Local Government, detection of scrap metal thieves. [90406] the Local Government Association and with local authorities directly. Damian Green: The ease with which criminals can sell metal for cash with little prospect of being detected is a Theft: Natural Gas powerful driver behind metal theft. The Government are currently considering a range of legislative options Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for the to deal with the growing problem of metal theft, including Home Department what assessment she has made of whether cash payments for scrap metal should be prohibited. the effects on local communities of the theft of gas cylinders; and what steps she plans to take to reduce Mr Marsden: To ask the Secretary of State for the the incidence of such theft. [89950] Home Department what proposals she plans to bring forward to amend existing legislation on the sale and Damian Green: The theft of gas cylinders for their disposal of scrap metal in order to prevent metal theft. scrap value is a growing problem. The Home Office and [90427] the Association of Chief Police Officers are working with UKLPG, the trade association for the Liquid Damian Green: Discussions are under way across Petroleum Gas industry, and the scrap metal industry Government to agree the legislative changes needed to to highlight the serious risks associated with handling tackle metal theft. We will announce our proposals cylinders that contain flammable gas, and to promote shortly. legitimate disposal routes. The Government are also reviewing the legislation governing the scrap metal industry in order to restrict the market for stolen metal. Mr Marsden: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what additional resources she is Third Sector considering making available to the British Transport police following the recent increase in metal theft Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the involving railway cable. [90428] Home Department how much funding her Department provided to (a) Action on Addiction, (b) Adoption Damian Green: The Government are committing £5 UK, (c) the Adoption and Fostering Information million to establish a dedicated metal theft taskforce, as Line, (d) the Child Bereavement Charity, (e) Well set out in the National Infrastructure Plan. The taskforce Child and (f) each of East Anglia’s children’s hospices will be coordinated by the British Transport police. in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; and if she will make a statement. [89771] Mr Marsden: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans she has to (a) regulate Damian Green [holding answer 16 January 2012]: and (b) close illegal scrap metal dealing yards. [90429] The Home Department has not provided funding to any of the listed organisations over the last two financial Damian Green: The Government are currently years. considering a range of legislative options to deal with the growing problem of metal theft, including a more robust licensing regime for scrap metal dealers. Work is also under way by law enforcement organisations, including ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE through a new, dedicated metal theft taskforce, to identify scrap metal yards which are operating illegally and take Biofuels the appropriate action. Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Marsden: To ask the Secretary of State for the Energy and Climate Change if he will consider the Home Department what plans she has to discuss with recommendation by the Committee on Climate Change the Secretary of State for Justice increases in the in its Bioenergy Review that his Department’s penalties for scrap metal theft and illegal dealing in Bioenergy Strategy includes an assessment of the scrap metal. [90430] global wood industry; and if he will make a statement. [90218] Damian Green: The Government are currently considering a range of legislative options to deal with Gregory Barker: Yes. The cross-Government UK the growing problem of metal theft, including what bioenergy strategy is examining three main issues: changes could be made to the sentencing options available the availability of sustainably-sourced feedstocks to 2020 and for convicted metal theft offenders. beyond; the potential impacts (economic and carbon) of using biomass in the energy sector including for alternative uses such as by the Mr Marsden: To ask the Secretary of State for the wood industry; and Home Department what discussions she has had with the most appropriate uses of biomass feedstocks in the energy (a) local authorities and (b) the Local Government sector (electricity, heat and transport) to 2020 and beyond taking Association on strengthening co-ordinated action by into account wider Government objectives such as cost-effectiveness, trading standards officers against illegal scrap metal carbon abatement potential, renewables targets and security of dealing. [90431] supply. 675W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 676W

Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what effect will the Energy and Climate Change which coal-fired power recommendation by the Committee on Climate Change plants need to be decommissioned to meet the UK’s that the use of woody biomass in construction should obligations under the Large Combustion Directive; be a priority have on his Department’s Bioenergy and when such power plants are likely to be taken out Strategy; and if he will make a statement. [90219] of service. [88874]

Gregory Barker: The cross-Government UK bio-energy Charles Hendry: Details of the coal-fired power stations strategy will be responding to the recommendations of closing under the large combustion plant directive and the Committee on Climate Change’s bioenergy review their remaining running hours are publically available and is due for publication in the spring. on the NETA/Elexon website: http://www.bmreports.com/bsp/bsp_home.htm Biomass: Scotland (see ’General’—’Further Market Data’—’Large Combustion Plant Directive’). Mrs McGuire: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will assess the The following table shows the coal-fired stations that relevance to his Department’s policies of will close under the EU large combustion plant directive, the recommendations in the report commissioned by along with the running hours remaining for each plant, the Forestry Commission Scotland and the Scottish as at the end of November 2011. Government on supporting biomass electricity in the Hours remaining (as at end November Renewables Obligation (Scotland); and if he will make Plant 2011) a statement. [90257] Cockenzie Units 1 and 2 3,134 Charles Hendry: The consultation on the renewables Cockenzie Units 3 and 4 4,156 obligation (RO), the main support mechanism for large-scale Didcot A 9,119 renewable electricity generation in England and Wales, Ferrybridge (1 and 2) 8,955 closed on 12 January. We are considering all consultation Ironbridge 11,607 responses and relevant information, including the biomass Kingsnorth 5,231 electricity report recently prepared for Scotland and Tilbury (7 and 8) 7,834 cross-Government work to develop a UK bioenergy Tilbury (9 and 10) 7,446 strategy, to ensure that RO support levels deliver value Total 57,482 for money for consumer spend on energy and across the The operation and closure of coal-fired power stations bioeconomy more widely. (including the use of their remaining running hours) Coal Fired Power Stations under the EU large combustion plant directive is a commercial decision for generators.

Mr Binley: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Departmental Apprentice and Climate Change which coal-fired power stations he expects to close as a result of the EU large combustion plant directive; and what estimate he has made of the Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for number of remaining running hours for each such Energy and Climate Change how much funding his plant. [88864] Department allocated to sponsor apprenticeships in his Department in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and how Charles Hendry: Details of the coal-fired power stations much such funding he plans to allocate in 2012-13. closing under the large combustion plant directive and [89147] their remaining running hours are publically available on the NETA/Elexon website at: Gregory Barker: Fourteen staff with payroll costs of £320,000 undertook apprenticeships in the Department http://www.bmreports.com/bsp/bsp_home.htm of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) in 2010-11. No (see ‘General’—‘Further Market Data’—‘Large specific budget was set aside for apprentices as a group. Combustion Plant Directive’). The pay and pension entitlement received by apprentices The following table shows the coal-fired stations that is influenced by the apprentice’s age. will close under the EU large combustion plant directive, Pay costs of DECC apprentices in 2011-12 were along with the running hours remaining for each plant, £345,000. No specific budget was set aside for apprentices, as at the end of November 2011. as a group.

Hours remaining (as at end- No specific budget has been set aside in 2012-13. Plant November 2011) Expenditure will depend on the number of suitable vacancies arising within the Department. Cockenzie Units 1 and 2 3,134 Cockenzie Units 3 and 4 4,156 Departmental Pay Didcot A 9,119 Ferrybridge (1 and 2) 8,955 Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Ironbridge 11,607 and Climate Change how much was paid to officials in Kingsnorth 5,231 his Department and its non-departmental public Tilbury (7 and 8) 7,834 bodies in (a) bonuses, (b) allowances and (c) other Tilbury (9 and 10) 7,446 payments additional to basic salary in each of the last Total 57,482 two years for which figures are available; what 677W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 678W categories of payment may be made to officials in LAs are currently considering the Green Deal proposals, addition to basic salary; what the monetary value is of which were published for consultation on 23 November, each category of payment; and what the monetary and what this means for their plans for energy efficiency value was of the 20 largest such payments made in each locally. With this in mind we therefore propose to issue of the last two years. [89682] new HECA guidance in spring 2012. We are currently considering the future scope of Gregory Barker: The Department and its non- guidance under HECA and will develop proposals in departmental public bodies use non-consolidated partnership with local government in the context of performance-related payments to help drive high DECC’s Memorandum of Understanding with the Local performance in the organisations as they: Government Association. 1. encourage continuous high attainment because the payments are dependent upon continuing strong performance Energy: Fracking 2. prevent a permanent rise in salary and an increase in pension on the basis of one-off performances while still allowing good Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy performance to be rewarded and Climate Change what his Department’s latest 3. have no long-term costs, in particular it does not increase estimate is of the reserves of shale gas in the UK; what future pension payments his Department’s policy is on the extraction of shale 4. focus the work of employees more directly on the priority gas; and if he will make a statement. [89908] goals of the organisation Charles Hendry: A British Geological Survey study in 5. motivate employees by linking an element of compensation 2010 estimated that if UK shales were similarly productive to the achievement of objectives rather than offering payment for time served to those in the USA they could yield some 150 billion cubic metres of gas, equivalent to roughly two years’ of 6. target money at those who make the biggest contribution. UK demand. Details of the payments the Department of Energy The BGS is currently undertaking more detailed work and Climate Change and its non-departmental bodies on the extent of the underlying resource which will also have made in each of the respective years have been take into account last year’s drilling results of Cuadrilla placed in the Libraries of the House. in Lancashire. Energy: Billing However, little drilling has yet taken place and commercial production of shale gas has not been proven in the UK, so it is not yet possible to make a reliable estimate of Steve Rotheram: To ask the Secretary of State for recoverable reserves. Energy and Climate Change what recent discussions his Department has had with energy companies on As with conventional oil and gas activity, if there ways to simplify the design of energy bills. [90274] does prove to be commercially producible quantities of UK shale gas, the Government would support industry Charles Hendry: DECC Ministers and officials meet in tapping in such resources, so long as such exploitation energy companies on a regular basis to discuss a range proves to be technically and economically viable, and of market issues. can be carried out with full regard to the protection of the environment. Ofgem recently published proposals as part of their Retail Market Review relating to the design and content Energy: Older People of energy bills. In addition, Ofgem have issued an open letter in Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for which they set out their ongoing work to simplify and Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has reduce the regulatory burden where this is consistent made of the effect of the cost of fuel on the well-being with protecting the interests of consumers. They also of older people; and if he will make a statement. seek the views of stakeholders on this, including ideas [89303] to improve the clarity of information provided by suppliers Gregory Barker: DECC is committed to helping people, to their customers. especially low-income vulnerable households, heat their Details of this open letter are available online at: homes more affordably. This winter we are working http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/About%20us/BetterReg/ with energy suppliers to deliver the Warm Home Discount Documents1/Ofgems%20approach%20to%20removing% scheme; we are also providing heating and insulation 20unnecessary%20burdens.pdf measures through Warm Front; and developing our proposals for Green Deal and the energy company Energy: Conservation obligation. In addition, we are working closely with the Department Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for of Health on their Cold Weather Plan, which aims to Energy and Climate Change when he expects updated avoid the adverse health effects of winter by raising Home Energy Conservation Act 1995 guidance to be public awareness and triggering actions by those in published. [90449] contact with people most at risk. Gregory Barker: The Home Energy Conservation Energy: Prices Act 1995 (HECA) requires local authorities (LAs) with housing responsibilities to report on action to improve Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for the energy efficiency in their residential accommodation. Energy and Climate Change how much the cost of The Green Deal will fundamentally alter the landscape energy generated from (a) gas and (b) electricity has against which LAs will fulfil this requirement. changed over the last (i) year and (ii) 10 years. [89305] 679W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 680W

Charles Hendry: DECC publishes a wide range of rationalise and phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies energy price statistics relating to market transactions. that promote wasteful consumption and will continue These are published in Quarterly Energy Prices: to work through the G20 to seek progress on these http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/publications/ issues. prices/prices.aspx We believe it is important that international action in A copy of this is also available in the Libraries of the this area is not confused by duplication and so do not House. believe that it is appropriate for the issue to be specifically The Department does not however, record costs of on the Clean Energy Ministerial agenda. However, this all aspects of energy generation. does not rule out the issue arising in the discussions that we are expecting at the meeting. Mr Watts: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what discussions he has had with Power Failures energy companies on the cost of energy; where and when any such discussions took place; and whether he Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for received any assurances from the energy companies Energy and Climate Change what assessment his that they would cut energy prices. [90359] Department has made of the effect of voltage fluctuations on household (a) energy consumption Charles Hendry: DECC Ministers and officials meet and (b) electrical devices. [88889] energy companies on a regular basis to discuss a range of market issues. Charles Hendry: DECC has not undertaken an I welcome that EDF, British Gas, SSE, Npower, assessment of the effect of voltage fluctuations on E.ON, and Scottish Power have joined small suppliers household energy consumption or electrical devices. Co-op and Ovo by recently announcing cuts to domestic energy bills. Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what assessment his Mr Davidson: To ask the Secretary of State for Department has made of the effect of voltage Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made optimisation devices on household energy of spending on (a) gas and (b) electricity by consumption. [88890] households in each household income decile in the latest year for which figures are available. [90366] Charles Hendry: Electricity networks are designed to operate within a range of voltage fluctuations. Voltage Charles Hendry: The data requested are available optimisation devices operate by smoothing out these from the Living Costs and Food Survey, carried out by fluctuations so that the consumer can receive electricity the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The Family at a constant voltage. There have been claims by industry Spending publication summarises data from this survey, that these devices can help households save electricity. and provides data (in table A6) on household expenditure DECC has not undertaken an assessment of the effect on gas and electricity by gross income decile group. The these devices have on household energy consumption. latest year that data are available for is 2010: However, a trial of one such device undertaken as part of the carbon emissions reduction target (CERT) scheme, Average weekly household expenditure (£) which is administered by Ofgem, demonstrated savings Gross income decile in electricity use. group (a) Gas (b) Electricity

1 (lowest 10%) 6.00 6.80 Renewable Energy 2 7.40 8.20 3 8.00 8.90 Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for 4 8.60 8.80 Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made 5 9.20 9.70 of the likely effects on consumers’ bills of the growth of 6 10.20 10.10 renewable electricity generation as set out in his 7 9.80 10.50 Department’s route map for renewables. [89460] 8 11.00 10.20 9 12.50 11.50 Charles Hendry: In November 2011 we published the 10 (highest 10%) 13.80 14.70 estimated impact of energy and climate change policies on average household energy bills in the year 2020. This Fossil Fuels estimates that the renewables obligation (supporting large-scale renewable electricity) would add £48 to an Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for average annual domestic bill and feed-in tariffs (for Energy and Climate Change if he will take steps to small-scale renewable energy generation) would add 1 include the issue of global fossil fuel subsidy reform on £6 . the agenda of the Clean Energy Ministerial 2012. On 23 November 2011, alongside the Annual Energy [89552] Statement, DECC published an assessment of the cumulative impact of climate change and energy polices Charles Hendry: International fossil fuel subsidy reform on energy prices and bills in 2011, 2020 and 2030, has the potential to lead to significant reductions in available online at: global demand for hydrocarbons and carbon emissions. http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/meeting_energy/aes/ The UK has strongly supported the G20 initiative to impacts/inipacts.aspx 681W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 682W

Our assessment indicated that the average household Solar Power energy bill in 2020 was estimated to be around 7% lower than it would have been in the same year if energy and Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for climate change policies were not introduced. This result Energy and Climate Change what estimate his is based on DECC’s fossil fuel price scenario consistent Department has made of the number of households with a wholesale gas price of 68p/th in 2020 (in real likely to have solar PV in (a) 2015 and (b) 2020. 2010 prices). [88892] 1 It should be noted that these estimates will be updated as part of the Government response to the FITs comprehensive review and the RO banding review. Gregory Barker: Estimates of future solar PV growth are extremely uncertain. DECC is currently reviewing its estimates in the light of responses to the current Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs consultation on PV tariffs as well as other recent changes in the market, and will provide updated assessments for the final impact assessment published alongside the David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for post-consultation policy response. Energy and Climate Change what the total expenditure on the feed-in tariff was in each of the last four quarters for which figures are available. [89596] Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many households Gregory Barker: The total expenditure on the feed-in have installed (a) solar PV and (b) solar water tariff scheme in each of the last four quarters are shown heating. [88893] in the following table. These figures include both generation and export payments (deemed and metered). Gregory Barker: The latest monthly published statistics show that at the end of December 2011, the number of Total expenditure on feed-in solar PV schemes (of sub 50kW capacity) installed on Quarter tariffs (£) the Microgeneration Certificate Scheme database (MCS) October to December 2010 3,519,463 were 230,467. Of these, 61% (141,033) have been confirmed on Ofgem’s Central FiT Register (CFR). January to March 2011 4,589,371 April to June 2011 10,101,593 In addition, there were 3,534 solar PVs scheme confirmed July to September 2011 24,576,702 installations on the CFR but not registered on the MCS Source: database at the end of December 2011. These installations Ofgem, Levelisation report: are not registered on the MCS database since the installation http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Sustainability/Environment/fits/ capacity is greater than 50kW. Levelisation/Pages/Levelisation.aspx DECC do not currently hold any statistics on solar The eligibility date marks the start of the period water heating. during which installations are eligible to receive FITs payments. Tariffs will be paid for a set period of time David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for depending on the technology installed (e.g. 25 years for Energy and Climate Change what proportion of energy solar PV), and the total expenditure for each quarter production will come from solar energy in (a) 2012 includes payments made to all installations, including and (b) 2013. [89627] those installed in previous quarters. Data are published by Ofgem approximately three months after the start of the previous levelisation process. Gregory Barker: The estimated proportion of total electricity and energy demand in 2012-13 and 2013-14 that will be met by solar photovoltaic (PV) is set out in the following table. Solar PV output projections are River Severn: Tidal Power based on the lead option (central scenario) from the impact assessment supporting the consultation on feed-in Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy tariffs for solar PV, updated to reflect installations data and Climate Change (1) what meetings he has had to until the end of October 2011. Demand forecasts are discuss the potential development of the Severn based on DECC Updated Energy Projections: Barrage; and what matters were discussed; [90388] (2) what plans he has for future development of the 2012-13 2013-14

Severn Barrage; and if he will make a statement. Output from solar PV, central 760 850 [90433] scenario (GWh) Total electricity demand1 358 357 Charles Hendry: All meetings between external (TWh) organisations and DECC Ministers are published quarterly Total energy demand1 (TWh) 2,528 2,511 on the DECC website at the following link: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/accesstoinform/ Solar output as percentage of 0.21 0.24 total electricity demand registers/registers.aspx Solar output as percentage of 0.03 0.03 A private sector consortium seeking to develop a total energy demand tidal barrage on the Severn estuary has recently submitted Sources: a draft business plan to Government and, following 1. DECC, Updated Energy Projections October 2011, Annex E. 2. DECC, Updated Energy Projections October 2011, Annex H. See: discussions with officials, is providing further information http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/about/ec_social_res/analytic_projs/ on a number of issues. en_emis_projs/en_emis_projs.aspx 683W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 684W

Warm Home Discount Scheme Charles Hendry: A routine part of National Grid’s role is to balance electricity supply and demand. It Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for undertakes a number of activities to achieve this, including Energy and Climate Change how many (a) pensioner making constraint payments to generators through the and (b) non-pensioner households have received balancing mechanism. The number and relative value assistance from (i) EDF Energy, (ii) Atlantic, (iii) of constraint payments made to wind farms is small British Gas, (iv) SWALEC, (v) E.ON, (vi) npower, (vii) compared to overall constraint payments made to Scottish Hydro, (viii) Scottish Power, (ix) Southern generators of all types: Electric and (x) SSE under the Warm Homes Discount (a) No constraint payments were made to wind farms operating Scheme; and what the average level of assistance was in Wales in 2010 or 2011. per household. [89414] (b) (i) In 2010, constraint payments totalling £176,702 were made to wind farms through the balancing mechanism. (b) (ii) In 2011, constraint payments totalling £12.1 million Gregory Barker: 2011-12 is the first year of the Warm were made to wind farms through the balancing mechanism. In Home Discount Scheme. A report will be published addition, National Grid undertook a number of forward energy following the end of this scheme year detailing supplier trades through the market in order to balance the system. These expenditure in 2011-12 for the core and non-core elements are also classed as constraint payments and resulted in £12.7 million of the scheme. In total suppliers will provide support being paid to wind farms. worth up to £250 million in 2011-12 and assist around By comparison, overall payments to all types of two million low income and vulnerable households. generators to balance the system totalled £708 million This will include the provision of Core Group discounts for the financial year 2010-11. of £120 to over 600,000 pensioners in receipt of pension National Grid has advised that forward energy trades credit guarantee credit only. The level of contribution are commercially confidential, and is therefore not able suppliers should provide is proportionate to their market to provide details of which energy companies received share. such payments. Energy companies supplying energy from wind farms received constraint payments through Warm Home Discount Scheme: Mobile Homes the balancing mechanism in 2011 are detailed in the following table: David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps his £ Department is taking to ensure park home owners RWE 124,133 receive a warm home discount payment. [89535] Scottish Power 3,023,694 Fred Olsen Renewables 1,277,521 Gregory Barker: The Warm Home Discount scheme Airtricity 84,796 requires participating energy suppliers to provide assistance Vattenhall 56,633 to their low income, vulnerable consumers directly through npower 2,735,529 discounts on their energy bill from their energy supplier. Scottish and Southern Energy 2,071,790 In order to benefit from the scheme, customers, or their Falck Renewables 2,792,947 partner, must be named on the electricity account with a participating energy supplier. Therefore, discounts All of the above companies receiving constraint payments under the Warm Home Discount scheme would be through the balancing mechanism are incorporated in available to those living in park homes who do have the UK. electricity accounts in their own name. Assistance would not be available to those who do not have their own Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for electricity account with an energy supplier, for example Energy and Climate Change what the average length of those who pay for their energy through their rent. time was for an onshore wind farm to generate This issue was considered during the consultation sufficient low carbon energy to offset the emissions process for the Warm Home Discount Scheme which arising from its manufacture, installation and was published on 28 February 2010 and is available at: operation. [89490] www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/Consultations/warm-home- discount/1307-gov-response-warm-homes-disc-cons.pdf Charles Hendry: Emissions paybacks for wind turbines in the UK will vary according to factors such as the location of the turbine and the fossil fuel energy sources Wind Power displaced, but DECC estimates suggest that a representative emissions payback time for an on-shore wind turbine Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy would be about seven months. and Climate Change (1) how much was paid to wind farm companies in (a) Wales and (b) Great Britain Wind Power: Safety through constraint payments in (i) 2010 and (ii) 2011; [89182] David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps he plans to (2) which energy companies supplying energy from take to review safety standards in respect of blade wind farms in the UK received constraint payments in dislocation in the wind turbine industry. [89509] 2011; [89190] (3) which (a) British and (b) non-British based Charles Hendry: Wind generators, in the same way as energy companies received constraint payments in all other industries, are covered by the Health and 2011. [89191] Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA) which requires them 685W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 686W as duty holders to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, 2009. The “Music and Visual and Performing Arts” the health and safety of their employees and any members sector accounted for GVA of £4.1 billion, 0.3% of the of the public who may be affected by their activities. UK total. Duty-holders are responsible for assessing and controlling The full Creative Industries economic estimates statistical the risks from their undertaking—and it is for the sector release is available on the DCMS website: to prepare industry standards. For example RenewablesUK http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8682.aspx have published wind turbine safety rules and guidance, details of which can be seen at: Broadband http://www.bwea.com/safety/index.html There are also well-established British and European Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State standards covering product safety. for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps are The HSE performs appropriate regulatory checks on being taken by his Department to identify areas (a) the operation and maintenance of wind turbines and without broadband and (b) where broadband speeds also commissions research as needed. An HSE- are below 1Mbps; and what steps are being taken to commissioned report on risk assessment in the vicinity ensure that such areas either gain access to broadband of wind turbines will be published shortly, and we will or benefit from increased speed. [89340] consider the contents carefully once published. Mr Vaizey: Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) undertook a comprehensive modelling exercise to estimate the performance of all exchange lines in 2010 and has LEADER OF THE HOUSE continued to update the data as new information becomes Departmental Pay available. The Government have committed £530 million to help stimulate private investment in those locations where the commercial investment case is weak; the Priti Patel: To ask the Leader of the House how ambition is to provide superfast broadband to at least much was paid to officials in his office in (a) bonuses, 90% of premises in the UK and to provide universal (b) allowances and (c) other payments additional to access to standard broadband with a speed of at least basic salary in each of the last two years for which 2 Mbps. figures are available; what categories of payment may be made to officials in addition to basic salary; what Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State the monetary value is of each category of payment; for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether the and what the monetary value was of the 20 largest such telecommunications industry has been consulted on the payments made in each of the last two years. [89708] transfer of responsibilities for broadband to his Department. [89343] Sir George Young: The Office of the Leader of the House of Commons is part of the Cabinet Office. I Mr Vaizey: Since his appointment, broadband has refer my hon. Friend to the answer given by the Minister always been part of the Secretary of State for Culture, for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General, my right Olympics, Media and Sport, my right hon. Friend the hon. Friend the Member for Horsham (Mr Maude). Member for South West Surrey (Mr Hunt)’s portfolio, with officials reporting directly to the Secretary of State or myself, as Minister for Culture, Communications CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT and Creative Industries even when based in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. Arts Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent discussions he has had with the Government’s Digital research he has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated Inclusion Champion on the timetable for the provision on the contribution of the entertainment industry to of universal broadband. [89344] the economy; and if he will make a statement. [88879] Mr Vaizey: I have met Martha Lane Fox—the Mr Vaizey: The latest “Creative Industries Economic Government’s Digital Inclusion Champion—a number Estimates” bulletin was released in December 2011, in of times, to discuss a wide variety of digital issues which the contribution to the economy of the Creative including the rollout of superfast broadband. Industries is estimated—covering gross value added (GVA), employment, exports in services and number of Broadband: Business businesses. These estimates are compiled for the Creative Industries as a whole and for the 13 sub-sectors as Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State defined by the 2001 Creative Industries mapping document. for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps are Several of these sectors could be defined as entertainment being taken to ensure that small businesses in remote industries, for example the “Music and Visual and areas gain access to high speed broadband. [89341] Performing Arts” sector which includes performing arts, support activities to performing arts, artistic creation Mr Vaizey: The Government have committed and the operation of arts facilities. £530 million to help stimulate private investment in The Creative Industries as a whole were estimated to those locations where the commercial investment case is contribute £36.3 billion, or 2.9%, to the UK’s GVA in weak, with the ambition to provide superfast broadband 687W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 688W to at least 90% of premises in the UK and to provide Nation Number of schools universal access to standard broadband with a speed of at least 2 Mbps. England 14,072 Northern Ireland 230 Broadband: EU Countries Scotland 1,043 Wales 573 Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent Members: Correspondence discussions he has had with (a) representatives from the telecommunications industry and (b) governments Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for from other European countries on broadband Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport when he plans to provision; and what comparative assessment he has reply to the letter of 15 November 2011 from the right made of such provision with that available in the UK. hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton with regard to [89342] Mr J Allnutt, transferred from the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. [90267] Mr Vaizey: The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, my right hon. Friend the Member for Mr Jeremy Hunt: I responded to the letter of South West Surrey (Mr Hunt), has regular discussions 15 November 2011 from the right hon. Member on with representatives from the telecommunications industry, 5 January 2012, which was e-mailed directly to his and I regularly speak with my counterparts in other parliamentary office. European member states and the Commission on ICT I will arrange for another copy of this letter to be issues, including on broadband. This Government are e-mailed to the right hon. Member. committed to ensuring the UK has the best superfast broadband network in Europe by 2015 and we believe Mobile Phones: Aerials we are on target to achieve that. Ofcom published proposals for the Best in Europe Scorecard which will Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for assess this in their International Communications Market Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether he has Report in December 2011. In addition, the European conducted a value for money assessment on the Commission is due to publish a broadband international proposed use of public funding to improve mobile comparisons paper shortly. phone coverage compared to funding mobile masts in Charles Dickens areas which will not be covered by the release of 800 MHz spectrum. [87436]

Mr Ellwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Vaizey: The primary purpose of the £150 million Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether his is to fill in mobile voice not spots, but where possible we Department has plans to celebrate the 200th will look to support the deployment of additional mobile anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens. [90221] services including 4G when this is being deployed in the UK. Work is under way to determine where the investment Mr Vaizey: Events to celebrate the 200th anniversary should be made and will take into account any decisions of the birth of Charles Dickens are publicised at: made by Ofcom on coverage conditions attached to the http://www.dickens2012.org/section/exhibitions?page=4 800 MHz licences. This Department’s arm’s length bodies, the British Olympic Games 2012 Library and the National Portrait Gallery, will be holding exhibitions as part of those celebrations. Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, English Heritage: Finance Olympics, Media and Sport what discussions his Department has had with (a) the Home Office, (b) the Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Metropolitan Police, (c) Transport for London and Olympics, Media and Sport what information his (d) local authorities on integrating the technological Department holds on the amount English Heritage has and human resources available for security at the spent on market researchers in each of the last five London 2012 Olympics; and if he will make a years. [90013] statement. [90410]

John Penrose: This Department does not hold Hugh Robertson: The Department meets regularly information on English Heritage’s spending on market with the Home Office, the Metropolitan Police Service, researchers in the last five years. Transport for London, the Greater London Authority, local authorities in London and elsewhere, and other Get Set Network relevant organisations, to discuss security planning for London 2012. The Home Office is the lead Government Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Department for Olympic and Paralympic security, although Olympics, Media and Sport how many schools in (a) integration of planning and resources on security, as it England, (b) Northern Ireland, (c) Scotland and (d) is for other core activities, is a collective effort across a Wales have signed up to the London 2012 Get Set large number of delivery organisations. Network. [89962] We are working closely with the Home Office, the Metropolitan Police Service and others to ensure that Hugh Robertson: The following number of schools resource planning, for example the demand for private have signed up to the London 2012 Get Set Network. security guards, is fully integrated with that of other key 689W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 690W

Olympic and Paralympic delivery partners, especially In addition, we are encouraging local tourism firms the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and to sign up to a new 20.12% in 2012 offer scheme, which Paralympic games (LOCOG). will mean holidaymakers booking a UK short break The integration of technological requirements and before the closing ceremony of the Paralympic games to resources is fundamental to the planned system of be eligible for a special 20.12% deal with participating command, coordination and communication (C3) that UK hospitality and tourism firms. is needed to ensure that all significant parties interact The Olympic flame will travel through every county sufficiently and are able to manage and coordinate in England, as well as each local authority in Scotland, information exchanges and the handling of any significant Northern Ireland and Wales. The relay presents an incidents in the run up to, and during, the Olympic and opportunity for the UK to showcase the best of each Paralympic games. This is an ongoing and complex community as well as the tourism jewels within each of piece of work. our regions. Pre-games training camps will also provide an opportunity to create further economic benefits all Olympic Games 2012: Tickets around the country, including inward investment, through the international attention that will follow. Agreements have been signed between National Olympic and Paralympic Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Committees and venues across the UK, available at: Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he has made of the number of tickets for the London 2012 Olympics http://www.london2012.com/documents/venue-documents/ pre-games-training-camps-agreements.pdf made available in the UK that were purchased by people resident in the UK. [89963] Olympic Games 2012: Wi-Fi Hugh Robertson: The London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) is a private company operating Claire Perry: To ask the Secretary of State for independently of Government, responsible for the ticketing Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps he has arrangements for the London 2012 games. taken to ensure that all free wi-fi access provided at The Olympic games and Paralympic games are global public expense in London during the London 2012 events. There will be 8.8 million tickets for the Olympic Olympic Games is consistent with the family-friendly games, with 75% being made available by LOCOG standards endorsed by the Independent Review of the through the UK application process. Already, over Commercialisation and Sexualisation of Childhood. 3.5 million tickets have been purchased through this [88950] route by more than 850,000 people. More than 95% of successful applications through the UK process were Mr Vaizey: The Independent Review (Bailey) from UK residents. recommended device level settings work is underway on Current UK ticket sales are taking place now for the achieving this. This is the best way for parents to ensure men’s and women’s Olympic football tournament, with that their children are not able to access inappropriate further sales planned in April in all 26 Olympic sports, content wherever they are. There are no plans to provide after venue seating plans are finalised. free wi-fi access in London at public expense during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games. Olympic Games 2012: Tourism Sports: Equal Opportunities Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps he is taking to Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for encourage tourists in London for the London 2012 Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps his Olympics to extend their stay and visit other parts of Department is taking to promote gender equality in the UK. [89961] sports. [89320]

John Penrose: With both the Olympic and Paralympic Hugh Robertson: Sport England will be investing games and the diamond jubilee taking place in Britain £1 billion in the new youth and community sport strategy this year, we are committed to seizing the unique to secure a lasting legacy from London 2012. This will opportunity to raise the profile of the UK as a place to have a strong focus on providing the necessary opportunities visit. and infrastructure for young people to develop a sporting VisitBritain’s new international marketing campaign, habit for life. Around £450 million will go to sport’s with an investment of around £120 million, is targeting national governing bodies (NGBs) between 2013 and our biggest international markets and promoting all 2017 for their Whole Sport Plans and Sport England is areas of the UK. They are already using the GREAT working closely with the Women’s Sport and Fitness campaign on their website, and running advertisements Foundation, which provides specialist advice and support featuring GREAT with their strategic and industry to governing bodies, as it develops inclusive criteria for partners in key markets around the world. These adverts NGB investment. showcase what overseas visitors can discover in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Sports: Expenditure VisitBritain are also working closely with destination management organisations to help them develop ‘attract John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for brands’ which are designed to encourage tourists from Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the total both home and abroad to make the most of the wealth expenditure was in each parliamentary constituency by of destinations all over the UK. his Department on sport in 2011. [88826] 691W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 692W

Hugh Robertson: Total expenditure by this Department and the new Bomber Command monument currently on sport is not held at parliamentary constituency level. being built in Green Park. As such, we have no plans to In 2011 UK Sport directly invested £70,460,543 in create a British war memorial fund but there are already national governing bodies through their World Class programmes in place to support the preservation and Performance Programmes. The awards made directly by repair of war memorials across the country. Sport England in the financial year 2011-12 were English Heritage and the Wolfson Foundation, in £97,715,605. association with the War Memorials Trust, provide grants for the repair and conservation of free-standing Sports: Training war memorials in England. To date, over £757,000 has been offered under the scheme. Steve Rotheram: To ask the Secretary of State for This Department’s Memorial Grant scheme makes grants Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps his equivalent to the value added tax incurred by charities Department is taking to increase the number of and faith groups in erecting, maintaining or repairing voluntary sports coaches in (a) Liverpool, Walton public memorials, including war memorials. Since the constituency, (b) Merseyside and (c) England and start of the scheme in 2005-06, over £1.8 million has Wales. [90155] been given out to support memorials across the UK. Hugh Robertson: We are unable to provide this In addition to Government support, Heritage Lottery information by area; however the programmes in place Fund has awarded more than £28.18 million over the will benefit constituencies throughout the country. last 17 years to over 66 projects across the UK that have specifically included the conservation of war memorials. We recognise the crucial role of the volunteer in increasing and maintaining participation in sport. Three in every four coaches of the 600,000 qualified sports JUSTICE coaches in the UK is a volunteer, usually giving up three to four hours of their time on a weekly basis. Children The recruitment of volunteer sports coaches in England is a fundamental aspect of the work of the lead agency Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Sports Coach UK, funded by DCMS through Sport what methods are used by his Department to measure England. Sports Coach UK has also been working with the effects of its decisions on the subjective well-being each of the 49 County Sports Partnerships (CSPs), of children. [90158] including the Merseyside Sports Partnership, to ensure Mr Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) considers that the national recruitment strategies of the governing equality issues in exercising its functions, to comply bodies are understood and implemented at a local level. with equality legislation and to ensure it understands In addition, Sport Makers, as part of Sport England’s how its activities will impact upon different people. It Places, People, Play legacy programme, is encouraging provides information about this consideration in various 40,000 people to give up their time and take possibly ways, including by undertaking equality impact assessments their first step on the volunteer coach pathway by (EIAs). The protected equalities characteristics include organising people to take part. age and therefore impacts on children will be considered. The new Youth Sport Strategy aims to increase There are a variety of evidence methods used to consistently the number of young people developing assess impacts, including consultations, surveys and sport as a habit for life. Sport England will work with other research approaches. Evidence may not necessarily schools, colleges and universities, as well as local CSPs, be available to assess impacts of specific policies on the National Governing Bodies (NGBs) for sport, local subjective well being, though where it is this will be authorities and the voluntary sector—the people who taken into consideration. know sport and young people best—to improve the Community Legal Service sporting offer that we make available to them. http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8761.aspx Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for For the first time, as part of the new Whole Sport Justice (1) what proportion of the amounts falling due Plans, NGBs will be tasked with delivery of increased to the Community Legal Service under the Statutory participation for young people under 16. Each Whole Charge within (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10 and (c) Sport Plan will include ambitious objectives to ensure 2010-11 relates to costs recoverable for private family that sports deliver increased participation for both youth law matters; [89586] and adults alike. (2) what proportion of the value of civil War Memorials: Repairs and Maintenance representation for financial provision on divorce cases completed in (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10 and (c) 2010-11 were subject to the Statutory Charge. [89637] Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will create a Mr Djanogly: The Legal Services Commission (LSC) British war memorial fund to provide finance for the is able to determine the total amount of Statutory maintenance of war memorials in the UK. [90291] Charge levied each year and to provide a breakdown of this by category of law. The amounts levied for private John Penrose: Traditionally, British war memorials family law matters as a proportion of the total amounts are built and managed through private subscription levied was 92% in 2008-09; 91% in 2009-10 and 90% in rather than taxpayer funding. This has been true for the 2010-11. Within the category of law called financial vast majority of our existing memorials, from Nelson’s provision, funding is available for the sub-category financial column in Trafalgar Square to the local village memorials provision resulting from divorce. However, the proportion 693W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 694W of the value of these cases subject to the statutory Blueprint to achieve a higher degree of first time compliance. charge is not readily available and could be provided All regions have been focusing on directing resources to only at disproportionate cost. ‘up front’ compliance actions such as: increased use of telephone and text message chasing; increased use of Coroners: Witnesses intelligence tracing tools; and increased use of sanctions such as deductions from benefits and attachment of Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for earnings. As a result HMCTS has stopped the increase Justice what steps his Department can take to ensure in the outstanding balance. that foreign witnesses can be called upon to give evidence at inquests in the UK concerning deaths which occur abroad. [90149] Criminal Injuries Compensation

Mr Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice has responsibility for coroner law and policy but not operational responsibility Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice which rests with individual local authorities. Therefore how many awards the Criminal Injuries Compensation it cannot intervene in operational matters such as Authority made of (a) up to £5,000, (b) £5,001 to commissioning statements from witnesses overseas. I £10,000, (c) £10,001 to £15,000, (d) £15,001 to am, however, aware of the difficulties faced by coroners £20,000, (e) £20,001 to 25,000, (f) 25,001 to £30,000, investigating deaths abroad who cannot take advantage (g) £30,001 to £35,000, (h) £35,001 to £40,000, (i) of Mutual Legal Assistance arrangements as they are £40,001 to 45,000, (j) 45,001 to £50,000, (k) £50,001 not part of the UK criminal justice system. Nevertheless, to £55,000, (l) £55,001 to £60,000, (m) £60,001 to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) does 65,000, (n) 65,001 to £70,000, (o) £70,001 to £75,000, liaise between coroners in England and Wales and (p) £75,001 to £80,000, (q) £80,001 to 85,000, (r) overseas countries to facilitate co-operation, but neither 85,001 to £90,000, (s) £90,001 to £95,000, (t) £95,001 the FCO nor coroners can compel overseas witnesses to to £100,000, (u) £100,001 to £125,000, (v) £125,001 to give evidence at an inquest. £150,000, (w) £150,001 to £175,000, (x) £175,001 to £200,000, (y) £200,001 to £250,000, (z) £250,001 to Courts: Unpaid Fines £300,000, (aa) £300,001 to £350,000, (ab) £350,001 to £400,000, (ac) £400,001 to £450,000 and (ad) Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for £450,001 to £500,000 in 2010. [90448] Justice how much of the sum imposed in court fines was unpaid at the end of each month since May 2010. Mr Djanogly: Figures covering cases resolved in the [89729] 2010 financial year are shown in the following table:

Mr Djanogly: Information on how much was outstanding Band Number of awards for financial penalties at the end of each month is set out in the following table. Financial penalties include Up to £5,000 25,204 fines, costs, victim surcharge, compensation, unpaid £5,001 to £10,000 3,034 fixed penalties and penalty notices for disorder which £10,001 to £15,000 1,601 have been transferred to HMCTS for enforcement. £15,001 to £20,000 716 £20,001 to £25,000 511 Date Outstanding balance (£) £25,001 to £30,000 155 £30,001 to £35,000 90 2010 £35,001 to £40,000 51 May 597,407,373.91 £40,001 to £45,000 36 June 597,926,217.01 £45,001 to £50,000 32 July 603,218,336.26 £50,001 to £55,000 24 August 601,379,175.19 £55,001 to £60,000 21 September 605,343,857.00 £60,001 to £65,000 24 October 608,038,536.21 £65,001 to £70,000 12 November 609,467,452.69 £70,001 to £75,000 17 December 607,827,570.25 £75,001 to £80,000 15 £80,001 to £85,000 13 2011 £85,001 to £90,000 7 January 608,938,162,50 £90,001 to £95,000 8 February 609,172,527.51 £95,001 to £100,000 10 March 609,559,293.80 £100,001 to £125,000 40 April 608,300,210.78 £125,001 to £150,000 43 May 609,516,265.52 £150,001 to £175,000 21 June 610,873,978.86 £175,001 to £200,000 16 July 608,575,858.68 £200,001 to £250,000 44 August 608,910,827.30 £250,001 to £300,000 21 September 609,334,157.72 £300,001 to £350,000 11 £350,001 to £400,000 10 Over the last few years HMCTS have worked on £400,001 to £450,000 5 implementing and embedding the principles set out in £450,001 to £500,000 39 the Criminal Compliance and Enforcement Services 695W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 696W

Departmental Apprentices The Ministry will continue to work with Skills tor Justice, our skills sector council, our provider networks Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice and Civil Service Learning to develop our ongoing how much funding from the public purse has been apprenticeship programmes. The Ministry also works allocated to sponsor apprenticeships in each of the with providers that draw on Skills Agency funding to public bodies for which his Department is responsible provide the Department with free places where possible. between (a) April 2010 and March 2011, (b) April Departmental Aviation 2011 and March 2012 and (c) April 2012 and March 2013. [88736] Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Ministry of Justice including Justice how much his Department has spent on flights its public bodies has a well established programme of for its officials since May 2010. [89645] apprenticeships for its staff. The Ministry will continue to use apprenticeships to raise the skills and capability Mr Djanogly: The Department do not separately of existing staff by offering opportunities to develop record expenditure on flights for its officials. To provide transferable skills and support future recruitment. a figure for the amount spent on flights for officials alone would incur disproportionate cost. The Ministry has devolved responsibilities for learning and training budgets to each of its public bodies. The Departmental Consultants allocation of funding for internal apprenticeships is the responsibility of each individual public body and it is Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for not held centrally. As the Ministry is responsible for Justice how much his Department has spent on 52 public bodies, to obtain this information would incur external consultants in each month since May 2010. a disproportionate cost. [89643] The learning and development budgets for (c) April 2012 to March 2013 have not yet been finalised. The Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Ministry of Justice has Ministry will continue to work with Skills for Justice, spent the following on external consultants since May who are our skills sector council, our other provider 2010: networks and Civil Service Learning to develop our ongoing apprenticeship programmes. Spend (net) (£) The Ministry also works with providers that draw on Skills Agency funding that allocates free apprenticeship May 2010 1,888,433 training places. This provision is also available to all June 2010 3,523,312 public bodies. July 2010 2,421,828 August 2010 2,393,316 Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice September 2010 2,111,881 how much funding his Department allocated to October 2010 3,754,105 sponsor apprenticeships in his Department in (a) November 2010 1,533,988 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and how much such funding December 2010 1,966,613 he plans to allocate in 2012-13. [89141] January 2011 1,746,524 February 2011 1,647,381 Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Ministry of Justice has a March 2011 2,399,586 well established programme of sponsoring apprenticeships April 2011 3,757,813 for its staff. The Ministry will continue to use apprenticeships May 2011 1,283,862 to raise the capability of its existing staff by offering June 2011 2,755,656 opportunities to develop transferable skills and support July 2011 2,929,399 future recruitment. August 2011 2,197,902 The Ministry does not set aside a specific funding September 2011 2,362,592 allocation for internal apprenticeships. Instead, as October 2011 1,435,206 apprenticeships are part of the Ministry’s overall approach November 2011 1,197,102 to learning and development, the funding used to sponsor Note: internal apprenticeships is drawn from the overall training Data are only available up until November 2011. and development budgets. Over the period 1 April 2010 Freedom of Information to 31 March 2011, the Ministry has spent a total of £61,312 on apprenticeship training. For the period 1 April Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for 2011 to 31 December 2011 the amount of monies spent Justice how many freedom of information requests his was £41,495 with an anticipated spend of £55,495 by Department has received in each month of the last five 31 March 2012. The potential allocations of monies for years. [89730] 2012-13 is not yet known. The recent decline in funding is the inevitable result Mr Kenneth Clarke: The table provides a monthly of the reductions being made in the total number of breakdown of the number of requests received by the employees and the lower levels of recruitment of new Ministry of Justice and associated bodies not listed as employees, as a result of the public spending settlement. separate public authorities under schedule 1 of the This does not involve any reduction in the priority that Freedom of Information Act (‘the Act’). Under the we give to apprenticeship in the medium and longer Official Statistics code of practice, we cannot release term when recruitment will return to a more steady and statistics for a time period prior to their appearance in a sustained level. regular statistical report. Statistics for October to December 697W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 698W

2011 are therefore not included, but they will be collated legal aid budget, (b) his Department’s budget and (c) and published on the Ministry of Justice website in due total Government expenditure in (i) 2012-13, (ii) course. 2013-14 and (iii) 2014-15; and what figures his These figures have been obtained from a central Department is using as the baseline comparison. database. These figures include only first requests—appeals [89640] against responses provided to requests are not counted. Mr Djanogly: The impact assessments published 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 alongside the Government’s response to consultation represent the best estimates of the potential benefits January 68 62 262 248 287 arising from the reform and include an estimate as to February 74 50 240 253 275 the savings relating to family legal aid. The impact March 63 41 273 328 340 assessments estimate the total legal aid reform savings April 42 88 233 260 265 for each year, however this is not split into civil and May 66 68 208 268 290 family savings. June 40 92 241 309 298 July 55 105 238 299 274 The impact assessments use a 2009-10 baseline to August 67 107 222 324 273 estimate the legal aid reform savings. September 60 135 296 275 322 The legal aid reform impact assessments can be found October 51 166 252 240 — at: November 55 241 300 292 — http://www.justice.gov.uk/consultations/legal-aid-reform.htm December 43 222 205 220 — Total 684 1,377 2,970 3,316 2,624 Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) what estimate the Legal Services Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Commission has made of the sum to be recovered for Justice for how requests under the Freedom of private family cases completed in (a) 2008-09, (b) Information Act 2000 his Department claimed an 2009-10 and (c) 2010-11 through (i) contributions exemption to not provide requested information in from clients, (ii) costs recoverable and (iii) recoveries each month since May 2010. [89731] from the Statutory Charge; [89638] (2) what proportion of money estimated to be due to Mr Kenneth Clarke: A breakdown of the information the Community Legal Service under the Statutory requested is provided in the table. Under the Official Charge was collected in (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10 and Statistics Code of Practice, we cannot release statistics (c) 2010-11. [89639] for a time period prior to their appearance in a regular statistical report. Statistics for October to December 2011 are therefore not included, but they will be collated Mr Djanogly: The Legal Services Commission (LSC) and published on the Ministry of Justice website in due does not forecast costs recoverable, including contributions course. and amounts owed under the Statutory Charge by category of law. The figures provided include all requests in which a permitted exemption under the Freedom of Information Act was applied, with the exception of Section 21. Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Section 21 is applied when the information requested is Justice what proportion of reductions in his accessible by other means, for example on the Ministry Department’s expenditure on family legal aid is of Justice website. projected to relate to costs paid to solicitors delivering family services in (a) 2012-13, (b) 2013-14 and (c) 2010 2011 2014-15. [89641]

January — 33 Mr Djanogly: Savings calculations were made on a February — 131 ‘steady state’ basis and as such it is not possible to March — 144 provide an annualised profile. However, based on steady April — 108 state calculations, we estimate that 81% of savings May 103 120 attributable to family legal aid relate to costs paid to June 106 108 solicitors. July 128 112 August 137 127 September 118 130 Legal Aid Scheme: Personal Injury October 137 — November 106 — Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for December 115 — Justice how many prisoners in the secure estate have Total 950 1,013 made personal injury claims with funding from legal aid in each of the last 10 years. [89634]

Legal Aid Scheme: Families Mr Djanogly: The vast majority of personal injury cases are excluded from the legal aid scheme, although Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for funding may be provided if the matter has significant Justice what net savings in relation to family legal aid wider public interest. However, it is not recorded whether his Department estimates will be achieved from (a) the an applicant for legal aid is a prisoner. 699W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 700W

Legal Aid Scheme: Prisoners benefits attached to the reforms. Ultimately, costs and benefits arising, including those to other Government Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Departments, will be determined by behavioural responses Justice what his policy is on future reduction or to the changes, which cannot be predicted with any elimination of legal aid for prisoners challenging their degree of certainty.It should be noted that the Department conviction or sentence; and if he will make a statement. of Health has confirmed that in the context of the [89635] reforms as a whole, which include both the Lord Justice Jackson reforms and legal aid, costs to the NHS are Mr Djanogly: We have no plans to change legal aid expected to reduce and not increase. We will be conducting eligibility for prisoners making an appeal against their a post-implementation review of the reforms three to conviction or sentence. An appeal must be made within five years after Royal Assent, and this will consider the 21 days of conviction or sentence by a magistrates question of systemic impacts of the reforms. court. Appeals can only be made out of time with the Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for permission of the Crown court. An appeal against Justice how much was spent on legal aid (a) advice and conviction or sentence by the Crown court must ordinarily (b) representation for appeals to adjust welfare benefit be made within 28 days. All appeals against conviction determinations made to the upper tribunals and higher or sentence by the Crown court may only be made with courts in each of the last five years. [89629] the permission of the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). Subject to financial eligibility criteria, advice and assistance Mr Djanogly: The Legal Services Commission (LSC) may be available for an application to the Criminal does not record spending to the level of detail requested Cases Review Commission. and are unable to identify spending on all appeals to adjust welfare benefit determinations at the upper tribunal Legal Aid Scheme: Social Security Benefits and higher courts. Legal Services Commission Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what estimate he has made of the extent of any Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for additional costs to (a) the NHS and (b) other Justice what proportion of the total expenditure on Government Departments as a result of welfare legal aid was taken up by expenditure on the Legal benefits being removed from the scope of legal aid. Services Commission’s administrative functions in each [89322] of the last five years. [89727] Mr Djanogly: The impact assessments published Mr Djanogly: The following table shows spending on alongside the Government’s response to consultation legal aid and the LSC’s administration costs for each of represent the best estimates of the potential costs and the past five years.

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

Legal aid spend (£ million) 1,980 2,023 2,101 2,149 2,134 LSC administration spend (£ million) 114 133 123 129 128 Combined spending on legal aid and LSC administration (£ million) 2,095 2,156 2,223 2,278 2,262 LSC admin spend as a proportion of combined legal aid spending and 5.5 6.1 5.5 5.7 5.7 spending on LSC administration (percentage)

Offenders: Deportation return on their investment from the Department if the bond achieves the required reduction in reoffending. Caroline Dinenage: To ask the Secretary of State for Otherwise no payment will be made. Justice how many foreign national prisoners serving a Post-Mortems determinate sentence were deported under the Early Removal Scheme in 2010-11. [89959] Paul Goggins: To ask the Secretary of State for Damian Green: I have been asked to reply on behalf Justice what targets his Department has set for the time of the Home Department. taken to complete histological and toxicological tests In 2010-11, 1,789 foreign national offenders were carried out as part of the preparation of a post mortem deported under the Early Removal scheme. report. [89782] Offenders: Rehabilitation Mr Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice has responsibility for coroner law and policy only.It does not have operational Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice responsibility for coroners and therefore does not have whether his Department is providing any form of any role in setting targets for the completion of histological underwriting for the social impact bond pilot at HMP or toxicological reports requested in conjunction with Peterborough. [90438] coroners’ investigations. Operational responsibility for coroners rests with individual local authorities. Mr Blunt: The Department has not underwritten the social impact bond pilot at Peterborough prison. Investors Paul Goggins: To ask the Secretary of State for managed by Social Finance bear the implementation Justice (1) how many unexpected deaths (a) were and operational costs of the scheme and will receive a reported to coroners, (b) were subject to post mortem 701W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 702W reports and (c) required (i) histological and (ii) The operational capacity and certified normal toxicological tests to be carried out as part of the accommodation of each prison and young offenders preparation of the post mortem report in (A) England, institution for the last working Friday in December (B) Wales, (C) Scotland and (D) Northern Ireland in 2011 is also set out in this table. each of the last five years; [89780] Information is held centrally on cell occupancy, but (2) what the (a) shortest, (b) longest and (c) no data is available for around 2,000 prisoners, and it is average time taken was to carry out (i) histological and therefore not possible to provide the number of prisoners (ii) toxicological tests prior to the completion of post accommodated in multiple-occupancy cells at an mortem reports into unexpected deaths in (A) England, establishment level. It is however possible from the data (B) Wales, (C) Scotland and (D) Northern Ireland in available to determine the approximate number of prisoners each of the last five years. [89781] who are sharing accommodation at a national level. As at 30 December 2011 around 35,000 prisoners (40% of Mr Djanogly: The number of deaths reported to the prison population) were sharing accommodation coroners in England and Wales in the last five years for with other prisoners, be it crowded (eg two prisoners which figures are available, and the number of such held in a cell designed for one) or not (eg two prisoners cases where a post-mortem examination was undertaken, held in a cell designed for two). is set out in the following table. These figures have been drawn from administrative Deaths reported to coroners, and post-mortem examinations, 2006-10 IT systems, which, as with any large scale recording England Wales system, are subject to possible errors with data entry Deaths Post-mortem Deaths Post-mortem and processing reported examinations reported examinations during year undertaken during year undertaken Prison Officers Association: Trade Unions

2006 215,564 103,290 14,443 6,934 2007 219,668 103,423 14,790 6,937 John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for 2008 219,751 101,400 15,033 6,960 Justice (1) whether he has made an assessment of the 2009 215,385 98,587 14,498 6,767 feasibility of the restoration of full trade union rights 2010 216,243 95,402 14,352 6,541 to the Prison Officers’ Association; [89930] (2) what recent representations he has received on The Ministry started collecting information on the the restoration of full trade union rights to the Prison numbers of post-mortem examinations that included Officers’ Association. [89931] either histology or toxicology in 2010. In that year, 14,137 post-mortems ordered by coroners in England Mr Blunt: Prison officers are currently restricted from included histological tests, and in Wales there were taking industrial action under section 127 of the Criminal 1,540; toxicological tests were performed in 9,499 post- Justice Act 1994 for reasons of safety. These restrictions mortems in England, and 845 in Wales. These figures were suspended in 2005, when the Prison Officers’ exclude three coroner districts in England that were not Association signed a no-strike agreement with the Prison able to provide these data. Statistics are not available for Service, which they later breached by taking national earlier years. strike action on 29 August 2007. The previous Government The Ministry does not collect information on the subsequently reinstated the legal restrictions on prison timeliness of post-mortem examinations, or in relation officers taking industrial action. to Scotland and Northern Ireland. The potentially serious consequences of industrial action by prison officers necessitate safeguards against Prison Accommodation this course of action. Alternatives have been assessed but the Government are not considering lifting these restrictions. In lieu of their ability to strike, compensatory Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice mechanisms for prison officers are in place, including (1) what the occupancy rate was for each prison and local and national disputes procedures, with recourse to young offenders’ establishment on 1 January 2012; independent arbitration if required, and the Prison [90435] Service Pay Review Body, which recommends the levels (2) what the (a) certified normal accommodation of pay and allowances of prison officers. and (b) operational capacity was of each prison and The Prison Officers’ Association has consistently made young offenders’ establishment on 1 January 2012; representations on the restoration of full trade unions [90436] rights. This is not being considered, for the reasons (3) how many prisoners were accommodated in given above. multiple-occupancy cells in each prison and young offenders’ establishment on 1 January 2012. [90437] Prisoners’ Release

Mr Blunt: The occupancy rate of each prison and Paul Maynard: To ask the Secretary of State for young offenders institution, as defined by the percentage Justice what assessment his Department has made of of population, to in-use certified normal accommodation the merits of not releasing prisoners on a Friday in is published for the last working Friday in December order to ensure availability of support. [90187] 2011 and is set out in the table. This information is published monthly on the MOJ website via the attached Mr Blunt: Prisoners are released on a Friday, where link: the release date falls on a weekend/bank holiday, as set http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data/ down in legislation. There are no plans to amend that prisons-and-probation/prison-population-figures/index.htm legislation. 703W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 704W

When a court imposes a custodial sentence, prison Mr Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice provided funding staff calculate the prisoner’s release date according to of £620,698 to Shelter during 2010-11. According to the number of days to be served under the legislation our records, in the current financial year, Shelter has relevant to the sentence. Prisoners whose statutory release received £657,824 in funding from this Department. dates fall on weekends or bank holidays are released on The Ministry of Justice did not provide funding to the preceding working day under Section 23(3) of the Centrepoint, Crisis and Skill Force in neither 2010-11 Criminal Justice Act 1961. To detain anyone beyond the nor 2011-12. weekend would mean a prisoner was being detained longer than is statutorily required and therefore unlawfully. Young Offenders: Suicide To bring forward the release would mean the prisoner would not have served the custodial period required by Robert Flello: To ask the Secretary of State for law. Therefore, it is not possible to release a prisoner on Justice (1) what the length of time following transfer any other day as it would be unlawful to do so. until the date of death was of those people transferred from the youth secure estate to the adult secure estate Prisoners: Foreign Nationals who committed suicide in the last three years; [90206] (2) how many people aged between 18 and 21 years Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice who committed suicide in the secure adult estate had how many foreign national prisoners were removed been transferred from the youth secure estate in each of from England and Wales in 2011; and to which the last three years; [90383] countries they were removed. [89855] (3) how many prisoners of each age between 18 and 21 committed suicide in the adult secure estate in each Damian Green: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the last three years. [90384] of the Home Department. In 2010-11, 5,339 foreign national offenders were Mr Blunt: There has been one apparent self-inflicted removed or deported from the UK. It is our policy not death in the adult secure estate of a prisoner aged to disclose the countries to which we remove or deport 20 years following transfer from the youth secure estate foreign national offenders as this could damage diplomatic in the last three years (2008 to 2010). This death occurred relations and hence the opportunity to remove offenders. in 2009, 98 days after the transfer to the adult secure estate. Prisoners: Jamaica In the last three years there have been three apparent self-inflicted deaths in the adult secure estate of prisoners Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice aged between 18 and 21; one at age 21 and two at pursuant to the answer of 23 June 2011, Official age 20. Report, columns 464-5, on prisoners: foreign nationals, what progress has been made in negotiating prisoner transfer agreements with (a) Jamaica and (b) Nigeria. [89859] TREASURY Air Passenger Duty Mr Blunt: The UK signed a voluntary prisoner transfer agreement (PTA) with Jamaica in 2007. However, the Jamaican Government needs to introduce enabling Mr Spellar: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer legislation to ratify this agreement. Discussions about what recent discussions (a) Ministers and (b) officials the progress of this legislation and the implementation in his Department have had with their counterparts in of the agreement are ongoing and will be raised by other Commonwealth member states on the effects of Ministers attending the UK-Caribbean ministerial forum air passenger duty. [89850] later this month. Miss Chloe Smith: As part of the consultation process, Voluntary transfer of prisoners between the UK and Ministers and officials met with representatives of several Nigeria has been possible since 2009 when Nigeria Commonwealth member countries to hear their views became a participant of the Commonwealth scheme for directly. Annex D of the Government’s response to the the transfer of convicted offenders. During the Prime consultation on reform of air passenger duty, published Minister’s visit to Nigeria in July 2011, he and President 6 December 2011, lists the countries that contributed to Goodluck Jonathan pledged that they would work to the consultation. provide a compulsory mechanism for nationals from both countries to be transferred home to serve out their Banks: Pay sentences. The Bill to amend the relevant domestic Nigerian legislation to enable the negotiation of a Chris Ruane: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer compulsory PTA is now awaiting its final reading in the what measures are in place to record (a) chief Nigerian Senate. executive pay and (b) bonuses paid by banks to staff. [89462] Third Sector Mr Hoban: Quoted companies must disclose the pay Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice of all directors, including chief executive officers, in how much funding his Department allocated to (a) directors’ remuneration reports required under section Centrepoint, (b) Crisis, (c) Skill Force and (d) Shelter 420 of the Companies Act 2006. Aggregate information in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; and if he will make a on variable remuneration, including bonuses, paid to statement. [90399] senior management and members of staff whose actions 705W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 706W have a material impact on the risk profile of the bank, Departmental Manpower must be disclosed by banks under disclosure rules made by the Financial Services Authority in the prudential Luciana Berger: To ask the Chancellor of the sourcebook for banks, building societies and investment Exchequer how many speechwriters his Department firms. employs at each pay grade. [89380]

Capital Transfer Tax Miss Chloe Smith: HM Treasury employs two speechwriters, one at pay range D and one at pay range E. John Robertson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much was paid in capital transfer tax in Departmental Work Experience each year between 1982 and 1986. [89840] Luciana Berger: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr Gauke: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I Exchequer what guidelines his Department issues to its provided on 12 January 2012, Official Report, column non-departmental public bodies on the employment of 390W. unpaid interns. [89379] Miss Chloe Smith: HM Treasury’s non-departmental Children public bodies receive the same guidance on the employment of interns as for HM Treasury itself. HM Treasury does Chris Ruane: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer not have its own scheme for internships, but participates (1) what methods are used by his Department to in schemes run centrally by the Cabinet Office. Any measure the effects of its decisions on the subjective individuals enquiring about internships are directed to well-being of children; [90160] the schemes in operation at the time which include (2) what research his Department has commissioned Summer Diversity Internships, Government Economics to measure the subjective well-being of children. Services Internships and websites of departments offering [90153] other internship programmes. EU Law Miss Chloe Smith: The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is in the process of developing measures of Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer subjective well-being as part of the National Well-being which EU (a) Directives, (b) Regulations and (c) Programme. The Treasury has not commissioned any other legislation affecting his Department require separate research on the subjective well-being of children. transposition into UK law; and what estimate he has The ONS is working with a range of stakeholders, made of the cost to (i) the public purse and (ii) the including Government Departments and the third sector, private sector of such measures. [89697] to develop well-being measures for children and young Mr Hoban: The obligation to transpose EU law arises people. This work aims to come up with questions and as a result of the adoption of measures under the identify survey vehicles to collect information that is Union treaties. Under the EU treaty, it is above all the comparable across UK countries and other developed adoption of directives which gives rise to the obligation countries to get an accurate picture of children’s well-being. to transpose. Directives are legally binding instruments This will help provide Government Departments, but they are addressed to the member states. They need including HM Treasury, with better information on to be given effect in national law both as to their children’s subjective well-being for use when developing substantive provisions and also as to any additional policy. measures, such as the creation of sanctions, which may The ONS is currently running a consultation on the be necessary in order to ensure the proper application proposed measures of national well-being. This includes and enforcement of the provisions of the directive. all subgroups in the population, including children and Regulations have general application: they are binding young people For more information please visit: in their entirety and directly applicable in all member http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/about-ons/consultations/open- states. Therefore, it is generally unnecessary to transpose consultations/measuring-national-well-being/index.html the provisions of EU regulations into domestic law. Further information of the ONS work on Children National provisions that are inconsistent with a regulation and Young People’s Well-being can also be found on: and existing domestic legislation that wrongly duplicates http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/guide-method/user-guidance/well- the provisions of an EU regulation should, however, be being/wellbeing-knowledge-bank/understanding-wellbeing/ repealed. understanding-well-being.html In relation to part (c), no other legislation requiring transposition affects HM Treasury. Debts It is Government policy to conduct impact assessments of EU directives and regulatory proposals, which assess Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Chancellor of the the cost and benefit of such measures. The Government Exchequer what the average level of personal (a) debt do not aggregate these data. and (b) savings was in each region of the UK in each Excise Duties: Fuels of the last 10 years. [89516] Robert Halfon: To ask the Chancellor of the Miss Chloe Smith: The Government do not collect Exchequer if he will have regard to the effect of high data on the average level of personal debt and savings fuel duties on low income working families in his by UK region. preparatory work for the next Budget. [90361] 707W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 708W

Miss Chloe Smith: The Chancellor keeps all taxes Mr Gauke: In HM Treasury much of the work on the under review along Budget timelines and considers a avoidance of SDLT is carried out alongside other areas range of factors including the effects on low income of taxation. It is therefore not possible to come up with families of the Government’s fiscal plans. The Autumn a meaningful quantification of the people involved. Statement, 29 November 2011, Official Report, columns Neither is it possible to estimate the number of HM 799-810, announced that the 3.02ppl fuel duty increase Revenue and Customs (HMRC) staff involved in stamp that was due to take effect on 1 January 2012 will be duty land tax compliance activities as this work is deferred to 1 August 2012, and the inflation increase largely carried out in HMRC’s Large Business Service that was planned for 1 August 2012, currently expected and Local Compliance offices in conjunction with to be worth 1.92ppl, will be cancelled. This will provide compliance work on other taxes. support for motorists and businesses. Financial Services: Standards Chi Onwurah: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 10 January 2012, Official Report, column 71W, on stamp duties, whether Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer he is referring to Spotlight 6: Employer-Financed what steps HM Revenue and Customs are taking to Retirement Benefits Scheme or Spotlight 10: Stamp progress the development of the ISO20022 payment Duty Land Tax avoidance; and if he is referring to submission format; and if he will make a statement. Spotlight 10, on how many occasions HM Revenue and [89650] Customs has found property sale arrangements that have been artificially structured to avoid paying the Mr Gauke: The development of payment submission correct amount of stamp duty land tax; how many formats is a matter for the banking industry. HMRC are were actively challenged; and what action was taken. working with the industry to identify the most suitable [90381] format for joint submission of payment instructions and PAYE data. Mr Gauke: The earlier answer was intended to refer PAYE to Spotlight 10, published in June 2010. I apologise for the error. Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is aware of a what assessment he has made of the likely effect of number of marketed stamp duty land tax (SDLT) avoidance implementation of the proposed interim solution for schemes. HMRC considers that none of the schemes the PAYE Real-Time Information project on the which it has analysed is effective in reducing the purchaser’s timetable for completion of the strategic solution; and liability to SDLT. if he will make a statement. [89647] Wherever HMRC identifies that an avoidance scheme has (or may have been) used we issue a challenge. Where Mr Gauke: The interim solution for Real-Time an SDLT return has been submitted and full disclosure Information was developed in response to concerns of use of a scheme has been made, an inquiry is opened from employers and the payroll industry about the into the return. Where no return or disclosure has been timescales for implementing a Bacs filing channel and a made to HMRC a discovery assessment is issued. new payment standard. This solution ensures that Real- HMRC does not publish detailed information which Time Information can be implemented in time for the might prejudice the effective conduct of its compliance start of universal credit, which will use the information activities. to adjust payments to claimants. HMRC is working with the payroll and banking Chi Onwurah: To ask the Chancellor of the industries to develop the detailed requirements of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 10 January 2012, strategic solution, involving the Bacs channel, and determine Official Report, columns 70-1W, on stamp duties, how the appropriate timetable for implementation. many meetings have been held in his Department with the main subject of stamp duty land tax since May Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 2011. [90382] whether a target date for implementation of the strategic PAYE Real-Time Information solution has Mr Gauke: The Treasury does not keep an official been agreed; and if he will make a statement. [89648] record of meetings of this type. However the Treasury Mr Gauke: A target date for the implementation of holds regular meetings on all areas of taxation, including the strategic solution has not yet been set. HMRC stamp duty land tax. currently envisage that the interim Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) channel will be retained until at least Chi Onwurah: To ask the Chancellor of the 2016-17. The internet channel will be retained for employers Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 10 January 2012, who do not pay their employees using Bacs. Official Report, columns 70-1W, on stamp duties, what steps he takes to ensure that stamp duty land tax is Stamp Duty Land Tax paid by the purchaser when acquiring a property; and what further steps he plans to take. [90385] Chi Onwurah: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people in (a) his Department Mr Gauke: I refer the hon. Member to the answer and (b) HM Revenue and Customs are working on given to my hon. Friend the Member for Windsor minimising the avoidance of stamp duty land tax. (Adam Afriyie), on 12 January 2012, Official Report, [90380] column 388W. 709W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 710W

Chi Onwurah: To ask the Chancellor of the Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 10 January 2012, he will place in the Library a copy of each (a) set of Official Report, columns 70-1W, on stamp duties, regulations and (b) item of guidance issued by HM whether it is appropriate to use the term avoidance in Revenue and Customs and its predecessor relating to the context of (a) stamp duty and (b) stamp duty land the tax status of sub-contractors in the last 15 years. tax. [90386] [89653]

Mr Gauke: The term avoidance is not strictly relevant Mr Gauke: HMRC’s guidance on status for contractors to stamp duty for the reasons set out in the answer given in the construction industry is included in factsheet by the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, my hon. CIS349. The factsheet, which is available from HMRC’s Friend the Member for Norwich North (Miss Smith), website: on 8 December 2011, Official Report, column 408W. http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/new-cis/cis349.pdf Purchasers in a land transaction must comply with replaced leaflet ″IR148 Are your workers employed or the requirements of stamp duty land tax (SDLT) legislation self-employed?″ which was originally introduced in October in order to register their title to the property at the land 1995. registry. Avoidance in this context refers to attempts to I have asked HMRC to locate a copy of the leaflet use elements of tax legislation in combination to produce and arrange for it to be placed with the factsheet in the a result which reduces the amount of SDLT due, contrary Library, together with a copy of Regulation 4(5) SI to the intentions of Parliament. 2005/2045 which is the only regulation specific to employment status in the construction industry. This David Mowat: To ask the Chancellor of the regulation relates to status declarations that need to be Exchequer what steps he plans to take to reduce made by contractors. avoidance of stamp duty land tax on properties worth more than £1 million through offshore registration; and if he will make a statement. [89508] Taxation: Tribunals

Mr Gauke: It is not possible to avoid SDLT by Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer registering title to UK land offshore. Such title must be how many cases HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) registered at UK land registries. In most cases this has contested at the First Tier Tribunal (Tax) in each of requires a certificate confirming that stamp duty land the last three years; and in how many such cases (a) tax (SDLT) requirements have been complied with. the Tribunal has ruled (i) in favour of and (ii) ruled Liability to SDLT is not limited to UK resident against HMRC and (b) there was a different outcome. purchasers. Where UK land is purchased by a company [89652] registered outside the UK, SDLT is payable in the usual way. If shares in the company subsequently change Mr Gauke: The First-tier Tax Tribunal opened on 1 hands, there is no land transaction and SDLT does not April 2009 and HM Courts and Tribunals Service apply. (HMCTS) have published figures for the first two years which show the numbers of tax cases disposed of were: Tax Avoidance Number

Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 2009-10 5,600 what estimate he has made of the extent of avoidance 2010-11 6,100 of tax through placing land in offshore trusts; and if he will make a statement. [89567] HMCTS do not collate or publish the outcomes of tax cases. Mr Gauke: No such estimate has been made. About 40% of the disposals were decided by the The latest tax gap estimates were published in September tribunal (the rest being resolved between the 2011 in ’Measuring Tax Gaps 2011’ on HMRC’s website parties). HMRC has analysed around 80% of the hearings at: in 2010-11, (excluding cases inherited from previous http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/mtg-2011.pdf tribunals) and published the results on their website. These show:

Taxation: Business Number Percentage

Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer In favour of HMRC 793 74 in how many cases HM Revenue and Customs has Against HMRC 225 21 initiated proceedings against a business in respect of Other outcome 56 5 disputes relating to the tax status of sub-contractors hired by that business in each of the last three years. [89651] Unemployment: Young People

Mr Gauke: HM Revenue and Customs does not Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Chancellor of the maintain a central record of the numbers of proceedings Exchequer if he will use public sector capital before tax tribunals specific to employment status in the expenditure to reduce youth unemployment in construction sector. Hartlepool; and if he will make a statement. [82462] 711W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 712W

Danny Alexander [holding answer 24 November 2011]: Mr Hague: When I visited Burma earlier this month On 25 November, the Government announced an ambitious the President and I agreed that we were entering a new programme for tackling youth unemployment. Starting chapter in our relationship. Last week’s historic ceasefire, in 2012, the Youth Contract will deliver: and release of a significant number of political prisoners an additional 250,000 work experience or sector based work are extremely promising. As I made clear, progress on academy places for every unemployed 18-24 year old; these and the other issues I set out could result in a more Jobcentre Plus support for 18-24 year olds, including fundamental shift in our bilateral relations. extra advisor time and a careers interview from the National Careers Service and weekly, rather than fortnightly, signing; Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for a total of 160,000 wage incentive places (at £2,275 each) to Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment make it easier for employers to take on young people; he has made of his recent visit to Burma; and if he will additional funding to support the growth of 16-24 apprenticeships, make a statement. [88953] ensuring the funding for at least 40,000 incentive payments (at £1500 each) for employers next year to raise demand for 16-24 Mr Jeremy Browne: I refer my hon. Friend to the apprenticeships; and written ministerial statement made by the Secretary of a new £50 million a year programme for those 16 and 17 year State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, the right olds not in employment, education or training to get them learning, hon. Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), to on an apprenticeship or in a job with training. the House on 16 January 2011, Official Report, columns The Government are also stimulating private sector 28-29WS. investment through the Regional Growth Fund. In the This visit was an opportunity for the UK to recognise north east alone, the successful second round bids the efforts made by the Government to implement announced in October 2011 will generate an estimated reforms in Burma. The Foreign Secretary met the President, 8,796 direct jobs and 18,800 indirect jobs. Foreign Minister and Speaker of the Lower House and set out very clearly the further steps we need to see before a more fundamental shift in our relationship could take place. These include: FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE the release of all political prisoners; free and fair by-elections; and Iran humanitarian access to conflict areas alongside a clear process of reconciliation. 15. Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for He also met Aung San Suu Kyi and opposition Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent groups, as well as representatives from the ethnic minority assessment he has made of the Iranian nuclear communities, and assured them of the UK’s continued programme; and if he will make a statement. [89819] support for their efforts to promote democracy and respect for human rights in Burma. Mr Hague: I am gravely concerned about the Iranian nuclear programme. Iran continues to flout six UN We are all pleased to hear that a significant number Security Council resolutions requiring it to suspend of political prisoners in Burma were released last week, uranium enrichment. It recently began operations at its including 88 Generation and ethnic leaders. I warmly uranium enrichment plant near Qom and has conducted welcome these releases, as well as the historic ceasefire significant military-related nuclear activities. Pressure agreement with the Karen, as further demonstrations of will only increase until Iran is ready to respect its the Burmese Government’s commitment to reform. I international obligations and negotiate. hope that these positive steps will contribute to greater democratic participation in the upcoming parliamentary Persecution of Christians by-elections. The British Government will continue to follow 17. Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for developments in Burma closely. We will continue to Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment support progress, while making clear, both directly and he has made of the extent of persecution of Christians through the UN, our human rights concerns, especially in North Africa and the Middle East. [89821] in the areas affected by ethnic conflict.

Alistair Burt: Circumstances vary throughout the Tunisia Middle East and North Africa, although religious minorities, including Christians, have clearly suffered 19. Jim Dobbin: To ask the Secretary of State for oppression in countries such as Egypt, Iran and Iraq. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what support the The UK is deeply committed to freedom of religion and Government is giving to the development of expression and urge authorities to safeguard the rights democracy in Tunisia. [89823] and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of religion or belief. Alistair Burt: Through the Arab Partnership Initiative, the UK is providing British technical expertise on Burma democratic institutions, helping to strengthen freedom of expression and supporting economic development. 18. Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for We are also supporting Tunisia’s reform efforts through Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment the EU Neighbourhood programme, the Deauville he has made of the state of bilateral relations with Partnership and through our contributions to the Burma; and if he will make a statement. [89822] international financial institutions. 713W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 714W

Turks and Caicos Islands Mr Bellingham: The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2011 agreed some of the most 20. Kevin Brennan: To ask the Secretary of State for significant reforms in the organisation’s history. The Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent Government will continue to work with our Commonwealth progress he has made on the return of self-government partners to reinvigorate this important organisation. in the Turks and Caicos Islands. [89824] Palestine Mr Bellingham: In December 2010 the Minister of State for International Development, my right hon. 25. Mr Rob Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Friend the Member for Rutland and Melton (Mr Duncan), Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment and I set out eight milestones to be met before elections he has made of the political situation in Palestine; and could be held. Significant recent progress includes: a if he will make a statement. [89829] new constitution and Crown land policy, recruitment of new senior public servants, and an ambitious programme Alistair Burt: We continue to follow developments on of tax and public expenditure reform. Palestinian reconciliation closely, including recent meetings between Hamas and Fatah officials. We have been clear Middle East Peace Process that any new Palestinian authority must uphold the principle of non-violence, be committed to a negotiated 21. Guto Bebb: To ask the Secretary of State for two-state solution, and accept previous agreements of Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent the PLO. We will judge any future Palestinian Government assessment he has made of the status of the middle east by its actions and its readiness to work for peace. peace process; and if he will make a statement. [89825] Libya Mr Hague: The only way to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is through direct negotiations between the parties. Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for I welcome the efforts by Jordan to bring the parties Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment together under the framework of the Quartet statement he has made of UK relations with the government of of 23 September. It is important for both sides to seize Libya; and if he will make a statement. [89806] this opportunity and show the political leadership and courage needed to break the current impasse. Mr Hague: The relationship between Libya and the UK has changed beyond all recognition during the last 22. Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for year. The British Government have close relations with Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent the Libyan Transitional Government. We will build on assessment he has made of the status of the Middle the goodwill and gratitude for British support to the East Peace Process; and if he will make a statement. Libyan people to develop a new, stronger and more [89826] productive relationship in the interest of both Libya and the UK. Mr Hague: The only way to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian Bhutan conflict is through direct negotiations between the parties. I welcome the efforts by Jordan to bring the parties together under the framework of the Quartet statement John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign of 23 September. It is important for both sides to seize and Commonwealth Affairs when a Government this opportunity and show the political leadership and Minister last visited Bhutan in an official capacity. courage needed to break the current impasse. [88850] Diplomatic Network Mr Jeremy Browne: We have no record of a visit to Bhutan by a Minister in recent years. However, the last 23. Esther McVey: To ask the Secretary of State for visit by a senior official was when our high commissioner Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent to New Delhi, from where our relationship with Bhutan assessment he has made of his Department’s is managed, visited in October 2011. diplomatic network; and if he will make a statement. Bosnia and Herzegovina: Politics and Government [89827]

Mr Hague: Our embassies and high commissions are Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for the essential infrastructure of our country’s influence Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he overseas and of our economic recovery. We are making has received on the agreement to form a government in substantial progress with our plans to expand and use Bosnia and Herzegovina. [90303] Britain’s diplomatic network to the very full, and expect to open embassies in Kyrgyzstan and El Salvador this Mr Lidington: The Secretary of State for Foreign and year. Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), made a statement The Commonwealth on 13 January in response to the agreement among political parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina to form a 24. Stuart Andrew: To ask the Secretary of State for state-level Council of Ministers. He said we welcomed Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment this progress and the confirmation of Vjekoslav Bevanda he has made of the UK’s role in reinvigorating the as the new Chair of the Council of Ministers. It is now Commonwealth; and if he will make a statement. down to all parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina to work [89828] together to address other outstanding issues, including 715W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 716W the State Budget. Bosnia and Herzegovina deserves a In 2011 the Government raised the death penalty at secure and prosperous future in the EU; determination, all appropriate opportunities and with a number of our compromise and leadership will be key for Bosnia and priority countries as outlined in the Strategy for Global Herzegovina to progress on this path. Abolition of the Death Penalty, including our top five priority countries and regions: China, Iran, the US, British Nationals Abroad: Homicide Belarus and the English-speaking Caribbean region. I raised the death penalty with my counterparts when Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign I visited the Caribbean in January 2011 and also made and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of statements throughout the year on Iran, India and 9 September 2011, Official Report, columns 872-3W, on Belarus, among other death penalty priority countries. British nationals abroad: homicide, for what reasons In 2011 we also raised the death penalty through the the memorandum of understanding has not yet been UN Universal Periodic Review process with some of approved; and on what date he expects it to be our priority countries including Trinidad and Tobago, approved. [89743] Singapore and Antigua. Mr Jeremy Browne: The National Policing Improvement The Government have also intervened in a number of Agency (NPIA) are awaiting final approval and signature consular cases involving British nationals and, through of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by the the EU, in cases of third country nationals. Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO). ACPO China: Democracy have yet to confirm whether further approval is required by ACPO Cabinet. As soon as the MoU is signed by John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign ACPO it can be circulated to the Coroners Society of and Commonwealth Affairs on how many occasions England and Wales and the Foreign and Commonwealth China’s ambassador to the UK was summoned to Office (FCO) for signature. The FCO is ready to sign. discuss democracy and human rights issues in (a) 2010 Burma: Political Prisoners and (b) 2011. [88923]

Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State Mr Jeremy Browne: The Chinese ambassador has not for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he been summoned during this period. However, democracy raised the issue of the release of prisoners during his and human rights are a regular topic of discussion in meetings between Foreign and Commonwealth Office recent visit to Burma. [89447] (FCO) Ministers and the Chinese ambassador, and Mr Jeremy Browne: I refer the hon. Member to the between senior FCO officials and the Chinese ambassador. written ministerial statement made by the Secretary of Common Agricultural Policy State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, the right hon. Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), to John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign the House on 16 January 2012, Official Report, columns and Commonwealth Affairs if he will estimate the net 28-29WS. contribution of the (a) UK and (b) other EU member During his recent visit to Burma the Secretary of states to the common agricultural policy in each of the State met the President, Foreign Minister and Speaker last five years. [89080] of the Lower House and set out very clearly that the release of all political prisoners was one of the central Mr Hoban: I have been asked to reply on behalf of conditions which we would expect the Burmese Government the Treasury. to fulfil before a more fundamental shift in our relationship EU member states contribute to the EU Budget as a could take place. whole and not to individual spending programmes within He also discussed the issue of political prisoners with it and there are not, therefore, specific contributions to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. common agricultural policy expenditure. Details of the We are all pleased to hear that a significant number UK contributions to the EU Budget are presented in of political prisoners in Burma were released last week, the European Union Finances documents available on including 88 Generation and ethnic leaders. I warmly HM Treasury’s public website at: welcome these releases as a further demonstration of http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/int_eu_statefraud.htm the Burmese Government’s commitment to reform. I hope that this positive step will contribute to greater Commonwealth democratic participation in the upcoming parliamentary by-elections. Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment Capital Punishment he has made of the UK’s role in reinvigorating the Commonwealth; and if he will make a statement. John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign [89914] and Commonwealth Affairs with which countries his Department raised the use of the death penalty in Mr Bellingham: At the Commonwealth Heads of 2011. [88856] Government Meeting 2011, Commonwealth leaders agreed some of the most significant reforms in the organisation’s Mr Jeremy Browne: It is the longstanding policy of history, notably to strengthen the Ministerial Action the UK to oppose the death penalty in all circumstances Group. Britain welcomes this progress, and will continue as a matter of principle. We regularly make representations to work with our Commonwealth partners to reinvigorate to governments to abolish the death penalty. this important organisation. 717W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 718W

Democracy the Southern African Development Community Council of NGOs observation mission. John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign We did not help fund the Carter Centre election and Commonwealth Affairs which countries his observation mission. Department regarded as not full democracies in 2011. [88854] Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Mr Jeremy Browne: The Foreign and Commonwealth and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment he Office (FCO) does not categorise countries in this manner. has made of the security situation in the Democratic While democracy is a universal ideal, it can have many Republic of Congo following the outcome of the different forms and there is no single set of criteria for elections in that country. [90441] defining democracy. Most democracies are based on Mr Bellingham: Polling in the Democratic Republic common principles, such as respect for human rights of Congo (DRC) elections was largely peaceful. However and the rule of law, strong institutions, an accountable there were a number of serious incidents in the run up government and a free press. The FCO supports democracy to and following the elections as demonstrators clashed worldwide by seeking to uphold these principles. with the security forces. We are concerned by reports John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign that the security forces were responsible for 24 civilian and Commonwealth Affairs how many projects casualties, and have raised our concerns with the DRC promoting democracy his Department supports in (a) Government. We assess that there remains some risk of Burma, (b) Cuba and (c) China. [88855] political violence. Since mid December there has been an increase in Mr Jeremy Browne: The information is as follows. violence committed by armed groups in the east of (a) Our embassy in Burma manages £351,500 of projects this DRC. However we assess that this is unrelated to the financial year that support the promotion of democracy, largely through building the democratic capacity of activists and civil elections. We are in close contact with United Nations society organisations. Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic (b) Our embassy in Cuba does not currently provide funding Republic of the Congo and key international partners to projects promoting democracy. However, we are keen to see and will continue to monitor the situation closely. greater political and civil freedoms in Cuba and so we continue to engage with the Cuban Government, both bilaterally and through Democratic Republic of Congo: Military Aid the EU, to encourage positive change. We promote values such as freedom of expression, assembly and information in Cuba through Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign regular engagement with human rights defenders, and by monitoring and Commonwealth Affairs what contribution the UK public protests and reported abuses. Government has made to the training of the (a) army (c) Our embassy in China manages £485,000 of projects this and (b) police force in Democratic Republic of Congo. financial year, which are focused on four areas: criminal justice, death penalty, freedom of expression and civil society. [90408] Democratic Republic of Congo: Elections Mr Bellingham: The UK has contributed towards training of the Congolese army (FARDC) through the Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign conflict prevention pool. We are currently supporting and Commonwealth Affairs what role the UK is English language training which will allow better playing in the delegation from the US National co-ordination between the FARDC and United Nations Democratic Institute and the International Foundation Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic for Electoral Systems to the Democratic Republic of Republic of the Congo. In the last 18 months we have Congo to investigate the administration of the also provided support to training the FARDC in the use legislative elections in that country; and whether the of communications equipment and on gathering UK is providing a financial contribution to the cost of information against armed groups. the mission. [90439] The Department for International Development is Mr Bellingham: The UK is not participating in the providing £60 million in a multi-year programme to US mission and is not contributing to its costs. However, improve security sector accountability and police reform. we remain in close touch with the US on a range of This is focused primarily on reforming the Congolese issues on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), police (PNC). The programme has supported various including elections and the findings of the US scoping PNC training programmes including: principles of mission should help inform future decisions on support community policing; respect for human rights; handling to the DRC election process and institutions. of sexual violence cases; use of communications equipment; and asset management. Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what financial Additionally, the UK provides personnel to deliver contributions the UK has made to the (a) Carter training for the EU police reform mission. Centre and (b) EU mission in connection with the Democratic Republic of Congo: Politics and monitoring of the recent elections in the Democratic Government Republic of Congo. [90440] Mr Bellingham: We lobbied to ensure that the EU Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign deployed an observation mission to the Democratic and Commonwealth Affairs what recent Republic of Congo elections. Five UK observers representations his Department has made to the participated in it. We provided 15% of the cost of the Government of Democratic Republic of Congo on mission through our annual contribution to the EU reports of violence by security forces in that country budget. We also provided £5,900 for expert support to following the outcome of elections. [90407] 719W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 720W

Mr Bellingham: During the Democratic Republic of be needed for the public record. Information of local or Congo (DRC) election process the UK ambassador to short-term value is kept in the shared drive of the DRC stressed to the DRC Deputy Prime Minister and FCO’s computer system. Records of official meetings Minister for Interior and Security, the Chief of Police, will be recorded in the appropriate location, as described and the head of the National Intelligence Agency, the above, according to their content. Corporate value records need for the security forces to respond professionally are stored until they are reviewed for destruction or and proportionately to elections-related violence. The transfer to the National Archive. ambassador also raised our concerns about the conduct of the security forces with the Presidential Security Departmental Work Experience Advisor and the President of the National Assembly following the release of the election results. We continue to monitor the situation closely. Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what guidelines Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign his Department issues to its non-departmental public and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions his bodies on the employment of unpaid interns. [89391] Department has had with the US Government on the security situation in the Democratic Republic of Mr Bellingham: The Foreign and Commonwealth Congo. [90409] Office (FCO) has not issued specific guidance to its non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs) on the Mr Bellingham: Our officials work closely with their employment of unpaid interns. However, the FCO does US counterparts on a range of issues on the Democratic keep in close contact with its NDPBs on issues relating Republic of Congo, including the security situation. to employment and public appointments and provides The UK ambassador to DRC meets his US equivalent advice as necessary. regularly. We also have discussions with the US at the Within the FCO’s NDPBs over the last 12 months, UN and through the International Contact Group for the British Council’s UK offices have employed 15 interns the Great Lakes Region of Africa. on an unpaid/expenses-only basis. The British Council is currently reviewing policy on interns (UK) and will Departmental Apprentices be offering a small, paid internship programme for summer 2012. Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for The Westminster Foundation for Democracy has had Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) how much three short-term expenses-only internships over the last funding his Department allocated to sponsor 12 months. Information can be found at: apprenticeships in his Department in (a) 2010-11 and http://www.wfd.org/who-we-are/internships.aspx (b) 2011-12; and how much such funding he plans to There are no other unpaid or expenses-only internships allocate in 2012-13; [89145] in the FCO’s other NDPBs. (2) how many apprentices were employed by his Department between (a) April 2010 and March 2011 and (b) April and December 2011; and how many Global Response Centre apprenticeships he plans that his Department will sponsor between (i) January and March 2012 and (ii) Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State April and March 2013. [89214] for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what estimate he has made of the savings to the public purse arising Mr Bellingham: The Foreign and Commonwealth from his Department’s Global Response Centre to Office (FCO) runs an apprenticeship scheme through date. [88798] FCO Services, the FCO’s Trading Fund providing essential support services to the FCO and other Government Mr Jeremy Browne: By using the Global Response Departments. New apprentices are taken on each September Centre (GRC) to deliver out of hours consular support and the programme lasts three years. In 2010-11 £1,056,000 to British nationals, the Foreign and Commonwealth of funding was spent on the scheme. In 2011-12 an Office (FCO) has been able to reduce payments to estimated £962,000 is being spent on the scheme. Funding overseas out of hours duty officers. details for 2012-13 have not yet been finalised but it is The savings generated from this reduction fluctuate, likely to be in line with the current financial year. because in some urgent circumstances overseas staff Departmental Meetings may still need to be called out. However we estimate savings to be in the region of £500,000 per annum. Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his Department’s India: EU External Trade policy is on record keeping for official meetings. [88994] John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Lidington: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment (FCO) record-keeping is governed by relevant legislation he has made of the compatibility of the EU-India Free as well as standards set by the National Archives. FCO Trade Agreement, with (a) article 25 of the General staff are required to register all information of corporate Declaration of Human Rights 1948, (b) article 11 of value to the FCO in the FCO’s electronic document the International Covenant on Economic, Social and registry system. This includes documents needed for the Cultural Rights of the UN, (c) article 21 of the EU operational purposes of the FCO which have a medium treaty and (d) article 207 of the treaty on the or long-term value or interest and documents likely to functioning of the EU. [89572] 721W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 722W

Mr Jeremy Browne: We have an agreed position with Serbia and (b) Kosovo on the resolution of the border EU partners which is to push for clauses making compliance dispute in the north of Kosovo; and if he will make a with UN human rights instruments an essential element statement. [90304] of all EU bilateral free trade agreements (FTA). We are monitoring the current EU negotiation with India but, Mr Lidington: The Secretary of State for Foreign and as this is not yet finalised, it would be premature to Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member comment on the final text. Once the EU-India FTA is for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), and I have discussed agreed, the FTA will be scrutinised by Parliament in the the current challenges in northern Kosovo with the usual way. Kosovan and Serbian Governments on a number of Iran: Sanctions occasions recently. The Foreign Secretary raised this when he met Kosovan Foreign Minister Hoxhaj on Michael Ellis: To ask the Secretary of State for 20 October 2011. I raised this with Serbian President Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent Tadic and Foreign Minister Jeremic during my visit to discussions he has had on the effectiveness of the Belgrade on 31 October to 1 November 2011. The international community’s Iranian sanctions Foreign Secretary again discussed this with President programme. [89792] Tadic on 16 November 2011, (as did the Prime Minister) and with Foreign Minister Jeremic on 28 November Alistair Burt: I have had a wide range of discussions 2011 during their visits to the UK. with the UK’s international partners about the effectiveness The Government continue to believe that the best of sanctions against Iran. The E3+3 group—made up way for Serbia and Kosovo to resolve their differences of the UK, US, France, Germany, Russia and China— and ensure stable progress towards eventual EU supports a policy of pressure on and engagement with membership is through the EU-facilitated dialogue. I Iran. The EU has supported a range of strong sanctions am pleased that an agreement was reached in the dialogue against Iran, designed to bring it back to the negotiating on 2 December 2011 on integrated border and boundary table on the nuclear issue and—separately—to highlight management, which, when implemented, should resolve our concerns about Iranian human rights abuses. We the staffing of customs gates 1 and 31 on the Serbia-Kosovo and our partners believe that sanctions on the nuclear border. I also welcome the implementation on 26 December issue can slow the development of the Iranian programme, 2011 of the agreement reached in the dialogue on as well as pressing Iran to negotiate seriously with the freedom of movement. The removal of some barricades international community. in northern Kosovo following calls by President Tadic is Nigeria: Christianity a further positive development but many challenges remain. The Foreign Secretary and I will continue to Mr Sheerman: To ask the Secretary of State for raise this with our Serbian and Kosovan counterparts at Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent every opportunity. discussions he has had with the Government of Nigeria on the protection of Christian communities in that Singapore: Financial Services country. [89904] Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Bellingham: The British Government are concerned Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions by recent increases in violence and terrorist attacks in he has had with the Government of Singapore on the Nigeria, and recognise the loss of life suffered by both introduction of a global financial transaction tax. Christian and Muslim communities. [89556] I discussed the broad security situation with Nigerian Foreign Minister, Olugbenga Ashiru, together with the Mr Jeremy Browne: The Secretary of State for Foreign Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth and Commonwealth Affairs, the right hon. Member for Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), has spoken to his Singapore (Yorks) (Mr Hague), in September last year. At this counterpart on a range of issues, but not the global meeting I emphasised our commitment to working with financial transaction tax. The British Government are the Nigerian authorities to improve security for all not opposed to a financial transaction tax in principle, Nigerians, in line with the Prime Minister’s agreement but believe that such a tax can only be viable if applied with President Jonathan in July 2011. Through our high globally. While the Government could support a global commission in Abuja, we regularly engage with the financial transaction tax, it was clear from discussions Nigerian authorities in discussion of security. Most at G20 meetings last year that the necessary international recently, the high commission supported a conference consensus does not currently exist. in Kano that brought together regional leaders from the north of Nigeria to discuss peace building and political United Nations engagement. This included discussing inter-religious tensions. In addition, the Department for International John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Development operates a number of programmes in and Commonwealth Affairs what the total Nigeria that aim to find lasting, peaceful solutions to a contribution of the UK to the UN was in each of the range of ongoing tensions in areas of conflict, such as last five years; and what comparative assessment he has in Jos. made of the level of the UK’s contribution and those Serbia: Kosovo of other EU member states. [88853]

Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Bellingham: The UK makes numerous contributions Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent to the many different parts of the UN system and discussions he has had with the Government of (a) UN-led activities. Payments come from a wide range of 723W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 724W

UK Government Departments. Our two largest assessed United Nations Development programme payments are for the UN Regular Budget and the UN £ Peacekeeping Budget. 2007 50,000,000 The Foreign and Commonwealth Office pays the UK’s share of the UN Regular Budget, which covers 2008 55,000,000 core UN Secretariat costs and the UN’s political activities. 2009 55,000,000 During the last five calendar years the UK made assessed 2010 57,820,000 contributions to the UN Regular Budget as follows: 2011 55,000,000

$ United Nations Children’s Fund £ 2007 134,405,937 2008 121,483,273 2007 21,000,000 2009 161,820,119 2008 21,000,000 2010 139,591,230 2009 21,000,000 2011 155,346,491 2010 21,000,000 2011 42,600,000

Currently the UK pays its share of the UN Regular United Nations Population Fund Budget at an assessed rate of 6.604% of the total. This £ rate, set in 2009, is the second highest rate among the EU member states, after Germany. EU member states, 2007 20,000,000 collectively, pay almost 39% of the UN Regular Budget. 2008 20,000,000 These assessed payment rates are based on a formula 2009 22,060,000 which uses economic data based on relative shares of 2010 20,000,000 the world’s Gross National Income from the six previous 2011 20,000,000 years and then applies various adjustments on the basis of, for example, low per capita income or relative debt World Health Organisation burdens. These rates are subject to change when the £ scale of assessment is revised again at the end of 2012 2007 5,500,000 using new economic data. 2008 12,500,000 The UN Peacekeeping Budget follows the UN’s financial 2009 14,640,000 year (July-June). The UK’s assessed contributions in 2010 14,000,000 the last five UN financial years were: 2011 12,500,000

UNFY $ United Nations Sports for Development and Peace £ 2006-07 1398,382,024 2007-08 1453,172,780 2007 19,000,000 2008-09 510,392,616 2008 10,000,000 2009-10 638,813,118 2009 11,030,000 2010-11 546,422,541 2010 10,000,000 1 Does not include data for International Criminal Tribunals for 2011 10,000,000 Rwanda and Yugoslavia—data unavailable. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation The UK currently pays into the Peacekeeping Budget £ at an assessed rate of 8.1474%—reflecting the premium that the UK pays as a permanent member of the UN 2007 14,100,624 Security Council. The UK is the world’s third highest 2008 13,145,293 peacekeeping contributor behind the US and Japan, 2009 10,013,305 and the largest contributor among the EU member 2010 14,933,819 states, ahead of Germany (8.02%), France (7.55%), 2011 14,482,083 Italy (5.00%) and Spain (3.18%). Food and Agriculture Organisation The UK, typically through the relevant lead department £ in the appropriate field, also makes many other substantial payments into the UN system. For UN specialised 2007 13,111,296 agencies these are mostly voluntary contributions, with 2008 16,000,000 some assessed contributions e.g. for core costs. Additionally 2009 20,615,063 there are many significant voluntary contributions to 2010 21,000,000 UN funds and programmes and other UN bodies 2011 21,067,064 depending on how they support UK objectives and priorities. Of UK Government Departments, Department International Fund for Agricultural Development for International Development (DFID) is the largest £ contributor of voluntary funding. For illustrative purposes, 2007 13,762,000 DFID core contributions to UN bodies in the last five 2008 15,175,652 calendar years are set out in the following tables (not 2009 13,703,750 including funding that is channelled via country offices 2010 18,021,250 as multilateral or bilateral aid, or other HMG departments’ 2011 Nil contributions to these bodies). 725W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 726W

DEFENCE Number

Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations Old age or behavioural conditions 66 Musculoskeletal conditions 23 Sir Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Neurological conditions 6 Defence what recent assessment he has made of the Cancer 4 content of meals provided to personnel serving in Undiagnosed 7 Afghanistan; when the views of personnel were last Gastroenterological conditions 7 sought about their rations; and if he will make a Trauma 0 statement. [89287] Cardiovascular conditions 2 Respiratory conditions 2 Peter Luff: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I Integumentary conditions 3 gave on 13 December 2011, Official Report, column Aural conditions 1 750W, to the right hon. Member for East Renfrewshire Haemolymphatic conditions 3 (Mr Murphy). Renal conditions 1 Ministers take a close interest in the quality of food Reproductive conditions 0 provided in Afghanistan and recognise that its importance extends beyond nutritional value and has a significant A total of 28 horses were euthanased in 2011, for the impact on overall morale. following reasons: Food quality standards are maintained and monitored by in-theatre catering staff on a daily basis. Regular Number assessments of food quality are also carried out by Lameness 10 Front Line Command inspection teams. Service personnel Colic 7 are encouraged to provide feedback on the quality and Temperament 4 content of meals at the point of service. Injury 3 Assessments of operational ration packs (ORPs) are Neurological 3 regularly undertaken by review panels which include Malignancy 1 military personnel who have recently returned from operational deployment and feedback is generally very In comparison, a total of 12 horses were euthanased positive. In addition, each ORP contains a feedback in 2009, for the following reasons: form to enable service personnel to comment on the specific quality and content of that individual ORP. Number These forms are then used by the Defence Fuel and Food Services team to carry out trend analysis of current Lameness 8 food selection and meal components and adjust them Temperament 3 appropriately. Injury 1

Animals: Euthanasia Armed Forces: Animals

Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) horses and (b) dogs have been Defence pursuant to the answer of 10 January 2012, euthanised by his Department in 2011; and for what Official Report, columns 9-10W, how much his reasons in each case. [88312] Department spent on the (a) Swaledale ram, (b) three mountain goats and (c) two Shetland ponies. [90289] Mr Robathan: A total of 90 military working dogs were euthanased in 2011, for the following reasons: Mr Robathan: The Department incurred no costs in acquiring any of these animals. Number Information related to the cost of maintaining these Old age or behavioural conditions 35 animals is not held centrally and could be provided only Musculoskeletal conditions 19 at disproportionate cost. Neurological conditions 13 Cancer 11 Armed Forces: Diamond Jubilee 2012 Undiagnosed 6 Gastroenterological conditions 3 Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Trauma 2 Defence how many armed forces personnel his Cardiovascular conditions 1 Department expects to deploy for the Queen’s diamond Respiratory conditions 0 jubilee celebrations; and at what cost to the public Integumentary conditions 0 purse. [90193] Aural conditions 0 Haemolymphatic conditions 0 Mr Robathan: Details of the armed forces involvement Renal conditions 0 in events to mark Her Majesty the Queen’s diamond Reproductive conditions 0 jubilee remain at the planning stage and it is too early to say how many armed forces personnel will be involved In comparison, a total of 125 military working dogs or what the costs associated with their participation were euthanased in 2009, for the following reasons: might be. 727W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 728W

Armed Forces: Redundancy Conflict Prevention: Finance

Mr Meacher: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many members of the armed forces have Defence how much his Department contributed to the been subject to selection for compulsory redundancy in Conflict Pool in each of the last three financial years; the last year; how many of those so selected would lose to which countries such funding is directed; and how pension payments; and how many of those losing much he plans to contribute in each financial year to pension payments were selected three days before the 2014-15. [90444] period when they would have been entitled to full Nick Harvey: Conflict Pool resources are part of a pension rights. [89116] separate Treasury settlement on conflict resources and are managed jointly by DFID, FCO and MOD. This is Mr Robathan [holding answer 12 January 2012]: All separate from departmental budget allocations. Over armed forces redundancies are compulsory, although the last three financial years, the MOD has not made personnel in a redundancy field may apply to be considered any contribution to the Conflict Pool from its departmental for selection. A total of 2,860 personnel were selected budget. for compulsory redundancy in Tranche 1 of the current Armed Forces Redundancy programme of whom 62% Conflict funding for 2008-09 and 2009-10 was provided were applicants. as part of the 2007 comprehensive spending review (CSR) settlement. In 2008-09 the Conflict Prevention Personnel serving on pension-earning engagements Pool and the Stabilisation Aid Fund disbursed around who are selected for redundancy before they have reached £185 million. In 2009-10, the two funds were merged to the point where they qualify for an immediate pension create the Conflict Pool, which disbursed approximately (IP) or early departure payment (EDP) do not ‘lose’ £180 million in both 2009-10 and 2010-11. pension payments; they receive preserved pensions which are payable at the normal retirement age. In addition, Counter-Terrorism: Finance they receive redundancy compensation in the form of tax-free lump sums which, depending on the scheme to Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for which they belong, can be up to three times greater than Defence what his Department’s counter-terrorism personnel who have passed this point. They could also budget was in 2011-12. [90446] qualify for tax-free resettlement grants to which longer- Nick Harvey: Funds are allocated to Defence serving personnel are not entitled. Engagement Counter Terrorism (CT) activities under The number of redundees whose exit date falls three the Defence Assistance Fund (DAF). The total budget days or less before the date on which they would have for the CT element of the (DAF(CT)) for financial year qualified for an immediate pension, and will now therefore 2011-12 was agreed at £2.42 million. receive their pension entitlement in the form of a preserved pension, is sufficiently small that National Statistics Diamond Jubilee 2012: Medals rounding conventions require it to be categorized as between one and five to prevent the inadvertent Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for identification of individuals. Defence whether the information held on the Joint Personnel Administration system is sufficient to Armed Forces: Training ascertain whether a member of the reserve forces is eligible to receive the Diamond Jubilee Medal. [89561] Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he is taking to train landing signal Mr Robathan [holding answer 16 January 2012]: The officers. [89994] information held on the Joint Personnel Administration system (JPA) is sufficient to identify whether a member Nick Harvey: Landing Signals Officers are also of the reserve forces is eligible to receive the Queen’s operational pilots and fulfil both roles concurrently on Diamond Jubilee Medal, provided individuals and units a Carrier Vessel type aircraft carrier. As part of the have effectively maintained their JPA profiles. Any individual Long Lead Specialist Skills Programme, the UK has who believes they are entitled to the medal and have not instigated a F18 pilot non-reciprocal exchange programme received one by the National Thanksgiving Service on with the US Navy. This will generate both trained pilots 5 June 2012 will be able to appeal to the Ministry of for carrier operations and provide experienced pilots for Defence Medal Office. the Landing Signals Officer roles. Ex-servicemen: Health Services Astute Class Submarines Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 19 December 2011, Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Official Report, column 962W, on Guy’s and Defence what assessment he has made of whether there St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, whether patients is a defence requirement for an eighth Astute Class referred to the medical assessment programme submarine. [89421] presenting with physical health problems will no longer be eligible for support under the programme. [90240] Peter Luff: As part of the 2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review, we conducted a detailed review of all Mr Robathan: The Medical Assessment Programme military capability, which confirmed that we could deliver offers mental health assessments rather than physical the necessary military tasks with seven Astute class ones as the number of physical health referrals fell to a submarines which are significantly more capable than very low level. However, I refer the right hon. Member their predecessors. to the answer given on 19 December 2011, Official 729W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 730W

Report, column 962W.The Ministry of Defence continues long-term direction on the structure of the Army and to provide advice should a GP or 1990-91 Gulf veteran its basing requirements across the United Kingdom. It require information on Gulf health issues. also included the outcome of the review into Reserve Forces ″Future Reserves 2020″, which, if the Territorial Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft Army develops in the way we intend, will allow a progressive adjustment of the regular/reserve balance Mr Ellwood: To ask the Secretary of State for of the Army over the coming decade. Defence how many joint strike fighters his Department This is a complex piece of work which requires the plans to purchase; and when he expects such aircraft to Army to review and rebalance its structure and to be first delivered to the Royal Navy. [88811] identify when and how these changes can be made. This detailed work is now under way but no decisions have as Peter Luff: As announced in the Strategic Defence yet been taken. and Security Review (SDSR) we plan to deliver a Carrier Strike capability from around 2020. We have yet to This detailed work is expected to be completed during make final decisions on the timing and overall numbers 2012. of the F-35C aircraft we intend to order and will not do so before the next planned SDSR. Somalia: Piracy In line with our usual practice, we will not set a firm in-service date for the aircraft until after our next Main Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Gate decision, currently planned for 2013. what his policy is on use of force onshore against pirates in Somalia; and if he will make a statement. Libya: Bombs [89909]

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Nick Harvey: Any use of force by the military must Defence whether his Department has made a recent be reasonable, necessary and proportionate and comply assessment of the presence of unexploded ordnance with applicable international law. Applicable international left by British Forces in Libya during World War Two. law includes UN Security Resolution 1851(2008)(renewed). [88661] Any further details remain classified for reasons of operational security. Nick Harvey: We have not specifically assessed the presence of unexploded world war two ordnance in Submarines Libya. However, we are working with the UN and international partners to address the very serious issue of unexploded ordnance and weapons contamination Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for caused during the recent uprising. This is preventing Defence what progress he has made in negotiating with Libyan people from returning to their homes and we are BAE Systems to achieve the Government’s target of urging our allies to increase their contribution to the reducing the cost of submarine contracts by UN Mine Action Service and other NGOs in order to £900 million over the next decade. [89422] help the stabilisation and reconstruction of Libya. Peter Luff: The 2010 Strategic Defence and Security Military Aircraft Review announced that the Submarine Enterprise Performance programme (SEPP) was expected to deliver Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for over £900 million of savings over the next ten years. Defence how many BAe 146 aircraft he intends to SEPP will enable the three tier 1 suppliers within the lease; and at what cost. [89991] submarine enterprise, BAE Systems Maritime— Submarines, Rolls-Royce and Babcock, to work Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence does not currently collaboratively with the Ministry of Defence to transform intend to lease any BAe 146 aircraft. the way the enterprise is delivered and managed. Approval has been obtained from the Treasury to In May 2011 a Joint Programme Office was established, investigate the potential purchase of two BAe 146 aircraft which brings together expertise from the four parties to in response to an urgent operational requirement specifically develop and manage a joint view of the submarine to support operations in Afghanistan. Expressions of programme, and in October 2011 the four parties signed interest were sought on 21 December 2011 with the a joint memorandum of understanding (MOU) that intention of tendering in late January 2012. enshrines the overarching principles for the programme. Negotiations are continuing within this framework, and Royal Artillery individual MOUs will be agreed with each tier 1 supplier on how their SEPP contribution will be delivered; the Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for BAE Systems MOU is expected to be signed in the Defence (1) which of the Royal Artillery’s six close spring of 2012. support regiments will be disbanded; and when such closures will take place; [89992] Tornado Aircraft: Repairs and Maintenance (2) what estimate he has made of the potential saving to the public purse of the disbandment of a Royal Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Artillery close support regiment. [89993] Defence (1) what product is used to wash Tornado jet screens and windows; who provides it; and how much Nick Harvey: The Defence Transformation was spent on this product by his Department in each of announcement of 18 July 2011 set out our strategic the last five financial years; [90036] 731W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 732W

(2) what (a) the guidelines are and (b) the regularity Financial year UKNCB ETLS Team is of wash bottles for Tornado jets being replenished; and whether (i) his Department and (ii) the Royal Air 2010-11 358 211 Force have decided to (A) stop and (B) decrease the 2011-12 358 211 frequency of such replenishment. [90037] 1 Information for 2007-08 is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Peter Luff [holding answer 16 January 2012]: AL-36 2 Includes posts at MOD Abbey Wood: two posts in 2008-09 and three posts in each subsequent year. Kilfrost WWF/Mod3 is the windscreen wash fluid used 3 This includes 13 posts at MOD Abbey Wood relocated from DE&S sites on Tornado aircraft and is supplied by Kilfrost Ltd. (other than Glasgow) as part of the wider DE&S Collocation Project. Note: AL-36 has a number of different uses within the Ministry No service personnel are employed in either team. of Defence (MOD). Manpower costs for the last three full financial years Procurement costs of AL-36 for the entire MOD, are contained in the following table: rounded to the nearest £100, are contained in the following table. I am unable to break this figure down to show £ million cost of stocks that were then issued from centrally Financial year UKNCB ETLS Team procured holdings to Tornado GR4 Force units. 2008-09 1.8 0.4 Cost of MOD procurement of AL-36 2009-10 1.6 0.4 (£) 2010-11 1.6 0.4 2007 (from October) 9,000 Note: Information for 2006-07 and 2007-08 is not held centrally and could be 2008 26,200 provided only at disproportionate cost. 2009 28,900 2010 30,400 War Pensions: Tribunals 2011 46,300

All Tornado wash bottles are checked in accordance Chris Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for with the Tornado Master Maintenance Manual, which Defence (1) what costs his Department has incurred in stipulates they are replenished at every ‘After Flight’ respect of the ionising radiation appeals at the war servicing and all windscreens and canopies are cleaned pensions tribunals in respect of (a) solicitors, (b) by flight servicing personnel immediately prior to each barristers, (c) experts fees and (d) other costs to date; flight. The Department has neither stopped, nor decreased [89874] the frequency of, the Tornado Windscreen Wash Bottle (2) what estimate he has made of the projected costs replenishment. of the ionising radiation appeal hearings at the War Pension Tribunal in January 2012. [89937] UK National Codification Bureau Mr Robathan: To date the Ministry of Defence has Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for been notified of bills as follows: Defence (1) how many (a) service personnel and (b) civilians were employed at the UK National £ Codification Bureau in each of the last five years; [90043] Solicitors 142,934 (2) what plans he has to relocate the UK National Barristers 151,798 Experts 32,587 Codification Bureau to Abbey Wood; [90044] Other costs 89,639 (3) what the annual personnel costs were for the UK Total 416,958 National Codification Bureau in each of the last five years. [90045] These figures exclude VAT and do not include the cost of any associated MOD resourcing or obtaining Mr Robathan: We are considering the future size, security clearances for individuals involved in the cases. shape and location of the UK National Codification Bureau (UKNCB) and the Engineering and Through Due to matters outside the MOD’s control it is Life Support (ETLS) Team, which works alongside the difficult to estimate future costs at this time. We are still UKNCB. This includes the possibility of locating the awaiting confirmation of a hearing date for the ionising UKNCB and the ELTS Team to MOD Abbey Wood, radiation appeal. Bristol alongside its parent organisation and main user We remain keen to work with the tribunal and appellants of its services: Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S). with a view to ensuring that costs relating to all war However, no final decisions will be taken until the pensions appeals are proportionate and kept to a minimum. outcome of a value for money study is known and trade unions consultation has been completed. The study is Wellington Barracks: Repairs and Maintenance expected to report in February 2012. Information on the number of civilian posts in the Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for UKNCB and the ETLS Team is contained in the following Defence if he will order the repainting of the facade of table: Wellington Barracks. [90211]

Financial year UKNCB ETLS Team Mr Robathan: There are no plans at the current time 2007-08 69 1— for the façade of Wellington Barracks to be repainted. 2008-09 54 211 In the current economic climate spending on the defence 2009-10 54 211 estate must be prioritised. 733W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 734W

ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS Mr Paice: We are aware that there are some other countries with licensing systems that cover the use of Agriculture animals in circuses. Given that we have the experience of a number of animal welfare focused licensing schemes already operating effectively in England and the information John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for on experience elsewhere we have not found it necessary Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the total to hold discussions with international ministerial support to agriculture her Department provided to counterparts. each parliamentary constituency in 2011. [88819] Fiona O’Donnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Paice: Details of financial support under Common Environment, Food and Rural Affairs with reference to Agricultural Policy (CAP) schemes in the UK may be the recent decision by the Austrian Constitutional found on the following website: Court, when she plans to introduce a licensing scheme http://cap-payments.defra.gov.uk/Default.aspx for the use of wild animals in circuses; and if she will These data relate to the CAP budget year running from make a statement. [89893] 16 October 2009 to 15 October 2010. Data for the 2010-11 budget year are expected to be available on the Mr Paice: The judgment of the Austrian Constitutional website in April this year. Court was published on 21 December 2011 and we are Unfortunately, following a ruling by the Court of considering its relevance to the legal position here. Justice of the European Union (CJEU), EU law currently only allows us to publish this information for recipients Animal Welfare: Farms of support who are defined as legal persons; data on natural persons may not be published. This significantly Henry Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for limits the coverage of the available data (legal persons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what definition make up less than 10% of the total number of recipients her Department uses of higher welfare of farm and account for around 20% of the total funding). The animals; and if she will make a statement. [89179] Government are committed to full transparency in the use of CAP funds and is pressing the European Commission to propose new legal requirements that would allow us Mr Paice: There is no formal definition of “higher to publish relevant data on all recipients, while addressing welfare standards”. The Government are however keen the concerns set out in the CJEU judgment. to see a consistent approach to high animal welfare standards across the EU. The data on the above website can be sorted by postcode area, but including information about parliamentary constituency would require a separate Animal Welfare: Licensing exercise which could be carried out only at disproportionate cost. Fiona O’Donnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what Animal Welfare: Circuses assessment she has made of the potential effect of her Department’s cormorant licensing policy in England on cormorant populations in special protection areas Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for in England, Scotland and Wales; [89932] Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the oral answer of 13 October 2011, Official Report, (2) what assessment she has made of the level of column 468, on wild animals in circuses, what the illegal killing of cormorants; [89933] international legal responsibilities are which prevent a (3) what assessment she has made of the adequacy of ban on wild animals in circuses. [83719] the Wetland Bird Survey in monitoring cormorant population trends in response to licensed killing; Mr Paice: The House has previously heard that the [90039] legal advice we have taken indicates that there is a (4) what assessment she has made of the effectiveness strong risk that a ban could contravene either article 16 of licensed killing of cormorants in (a) reducing and of the European Services Directive 2006 and Article 1 (b) preventing serious damage to fisheries. [90040] Protocol 1 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which was given further effect by the Human Rights Act 1998 and which sets out the conditions Richard Benyon: DEFRA is currently undertaking a which must be met by a state which seeks to restrict or review of cormorant licensing policy in England. This control the use a person may make of his own property. review is assessing current licensing policy in relation to the management of cormorants where they are causing, We are working to overcome the legal obstacles; in or are likely to cause, serious damage to inland fisheries. the meantime, the Government continues to develop As part of this review consideration is being given to regulations for a licensing scheme for the welfare of the impact of any revision to the current policy on: wild animals in travelling circuses. cormorant populations in Special Protection Areas; the level of unlawful lethal control of cormorants; the Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for adequacy of the Wetland Bird Survey in monitoring Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions cormorant population trends in response to licensed she has had with her international counterparts on the killing; and the effectiveness of licensed killing of effectiveness of licensing systems for the use of animals cormorants in reducing and preventing serious damage in circuses. [85227] to fisheries. 735W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 736W

A document detailing the scope and aims of the Bovine Tuberculosis review is available on the DEFRA website. The outcome of the review is expected to be published this summer. Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many Fiona O’Donnell: To ask the Secretary of State for mammals other than cattle were identified with or Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many slaughtered for bovine tuberculosis as a result of (a) cormorants were killed under licence in England in microbial culture sample, (b) reports from local winter 2010-11. [90041] veterinary practitioners, (c) gross pathology examinations by veterinary investigation centres, (d) Richard Benyon: 1,798 cormorants were killed under disclosing diagnostic tests including intradermal skin licence in England for the season that ran from 1 September or blood assays and (e) reports from Meat Hygiene 2010 to 15 April 2011. Service examinations at abattoirs in (i) 2006, (ii) 2007, (iii) 2008, (iv) 2009 and (v) 2010. [89799]

Batteries: Recycling Mr Paice: The risk to non-bovine species from TB is assessed as generally low and the surveillance system is Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for therefore proportionate to these risks. This means figures Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she is are not collected or broken down by the specific categories taking to ensure that the UK meets the 2012 target for the hon. Member has requested. Moreover, these scenarios battery recycling under the EU Battery Directive; and are not mutually exclusive for a particular case and it if she will make a statement. [88932] would be difficult to allocate each case to one of these scenarios. In addition, TB in non-bovine species is not considered to have been “identified” until positive culture Richard Benyon: The EU Batteries Directive has been results are confirmed. transposed in the UK by the Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009 (SI 890) in a manner Figures from 1997 on the annual number of total intended to ensure achievement of the 2012 target for samples from non-bovine animals that are (a) processed the collection of waste portable batteries. The regulations by the AVHLA laboratories and (b) found positive for establish a system of producer responsibility which M. bovis infection, are broken down by species and are requires each producer of portable batteries, apart from available on DEFRA’s website at: small producers who place one tonne or less on the http://www.defra.gov.uk/statistics/files/defra-stats-foodfarm- market each year, to finance the net costs arising from landuselivestock-tb-other-otherspecies-111124.xls the collection, treatment and recycling of its share of all (These figures do not include the number of animals portable batteries collected in the UK. The producer’s slaughtered from a herd where TB has been confirmed share of the net costs is equal to the specified percentage when M. bovis is not cultured from that animal.) (the collection target for a given year) of the average annual quantity, in tonnes, of portable batteries placed Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for on the market in the UK by the producer. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on how many Furthermore, regulation 8 establishes interim collection occasions her Department has invoiced (a) members targets for 2010 and 2011. The Environment Agency of the public and (b) owners of mammals other than carries out regular checks on progress against these bovines for post-mortems on animals suspected of targets to ensure we remain on track to meeting the having bovine tuberculosis in each of the last five years. 2012 target established by the directive and identify [89800] whether corrective action is necessary. Mr Paice: DEFRA does not invoice members of the public and owners of non-bovine animals for the cost of Birds: Nature Conservation post-mortem examinations conducted on animals where a reasonable suspicion of TB infection exists. Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency Environment, Food and Rural Affairs which bird occasionally receive badgers for a privately funded species have been identified by her Department as examination for TB. There were 14 such badgers in the being in danger of becoming extinct as a breeding last five years (2007 to 2011 inclusive). species in England by 2020. [88869] British Waterways Richard Benyon: We have not specifically identified a list of bird species in danger of becoming extinct as a Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of breeding species in England by 2020. However, under State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural estimate she has made of the funding requirement of Communities Act 2006, DEFRA publishes a list of British Waterways in the next 10 years; how much species of principal importance for conservation in funding her Department is planning to provide England. There are 49 species of birds included in this following the transfer of British Waterways to the list. Although not necessarily at risk of extinction in charitable sector; and if she will make a statement. England by 2020, these are the species found in England [89480] which have been identified as priorities for conservation action. This list will inform conservation action under Richard Benyon: The Government are committed to a Biodiversity 2020, the biodiversity strategy for England sustainable and prosperous future for inland waterways. 2011-20. A new waterways charity, the Canal and River Trust 737W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 738W

(CRT), will take over responsibility for inland waterways her Department has made on the plans to protect operated by British Waterways in England and Wales. Hengistury Head from further sea erosion; and if she The Government will give the new charity the best start will make a statement. [87321] it can afford. The Government have already agreed to transfer the British Waterways property portfolio, valued at about £460 million, to CRT. Richard Benyon: Bournemouth borough council is the competent Coastal Erosion Risk Management The Government are negotiating a long term funding Authority for Bournemouth and led on the recent Shoreline agreement with the Trustees of the CRT.Those negotiations Management Plan for this area. The policy (Hold the are considering a range of issues which could impact on Line) for the Hengistbury Head Long Groyne, considers the future funding of the canal network. that the Groyne will require future improvements to The outcome of the negotiations will be announced sustain levels of protection against coastal erosion and before the Government lays the necessary order under flooding. the Public Bodies Act to transfer British Waterways’ functions to CRT. Bournemouth borough council and the Environment Agency are working together as part of the Poole Bay Canal and River Trust Strategy. This aims to include the eventual long-term replacement of the Long Groyne and the managed Neil Carmichael: To ask the Secretary of State for realignment of the adjacent coastline at Solent Beach Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what and Double Dykes. This alignment may be forwards or mechanisms will be in place to ensure that the business backwards of the existing line. This strategy is due to go plan for the Canal and River Trust is sustainable and to public consultation in 2012-13. financially viable. [89330] Bournemouth borough council has submitted a funding bid for a 10-year sustainable management plan for the Richard Benyon: British Waterways is carrying out Hengistbury Head Long Groyne and Bournemouth financial analysis by preparing financial projections for beach frontage. the Canal and River Trust (CRT) based on various sets of assumptions. This analysis is work in progress and is not yet complete due to the ongoing negotiations between Departmental Design Government and the CRT transition Trustees on the funding agreement. A business plan will be prepared when the funding position is more certain. Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Financial sustainability is assessed by projecting the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what contracts future condition of the infrastructure assets and the her Department has awarded for design services since standard of maintenance of the waterways and comparing May 2010; and what information her Department these against target standards. The financial projections, holds on the location of such companies. [80180] projected future asset condition and maintenance standards will be considered by the CRT transition Trustees as part of their due diligence supporting the formation of Richard Benyon: DEFRA has identified the following the new Trust. contracts that have been awarded since May 2010 where design was a key element of the purpose of the contract. Coastal Erosion: Bournemouth The design services identified fall into three categories— Publicity, Facility Management Services and Exhibition Mr Ellwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Stands. DEFRA holds only the address each company Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what progress uses to administer its contracts.

Publicity Contract title Company name

Designing and publication of the New Waterways Charity consultation Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West document Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Design of Marine Planning diagrams, maps and planning newsletters relating Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West to RIMA Design Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Darwin Annual report—Design and Printing Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Design and print of Well Being Leaflet Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Design and Print Business card for climate change adaptation campaign Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Typesetting and Printing (Miscellaneous design and artwork) Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Soil Protection Review, typesetting and amendments Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Amendment to DEFRA Public Appointments Forms Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Updating DEFRA Brand Guidelines Communisis Print Management Services. Wakefield Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1DU Design and artwork for a 52 page analytical report 48pp and 4pp cover Promotional Logistics Ltd, Milner Road, Chilton Industrial Estate, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2XG Covers—design and artwork for 3 x A4 report covers 739W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 740W

Publicity Contract title Company name

Fishing Focus Summer 2011 Promotional Logistics Ltd, Milner Road, Chilton Industrial Estate, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2XG Waste Review Design Promotional Logistics Ltd, Milner Road, Chilton Industrial Estate, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2XG Redesign of EPE survey form 2010 Promotional Logistics Ltd, Milner Road, Chilton Industrial Estate, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2XG Leaflet and poster design for The Big Tree Plant—Central Office of Central Office of Information, Hercules House, Hercules Rd, London SE1 Information 7DU UK Location Programme Annual Report—editorial, design and technical RSW Geomatics Ltd, 8 Audley Close, St Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 6UJ input and advice Drinking Water Inspectorate annual report—design and proof reading CDS Leeds, 7 Eastgate, Leeds, LS2 7LY

Facility Management Services Contract title Company name

Health and Safety works to design, manufacture, install ETP Commission Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, specialist manufacturer to provide quotation London, SE1 8RT Design of an humidification system Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8RT East Parade. To take initial space plan option and develop into a full design by Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, surveying London, SE1 8RT Design of AH Packing Room at Sand Hutton Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8RT Design of AH Packing Room at Wallingford Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8RT Ashford Epps Building. Design for Animal Health packing room at Cold Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, Harbour Farm. Move to consolidate DEFRA Agencies and aid disposal London, SE1 8RT programme Redesign of a Laboratory to incorporate safe areas for new cutting, edge, Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, specialised, laser capture technology London, SE1 8RT Whitehall Place, Westminster 21st Century to design/supply and install a new Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, PA system London, SE1 8RT Feasibility/design study to prevent Pressurized vessel and associated pipe work Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, from freezing this winter London, SE1 8RT Food and Environment Research Agency, YORK Initial programme design Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, and costs for Block 16 3rd party works London, SE1 8RT Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science. Detail design of Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Capital Tower, 91 Waterloo Road, business suite and remodelling of Pakefield Rd site London, SE1 8RT

Exhibition Stands Contract title Company name

Design and production of the DEFRA stands at the two 2010 National Sheep ADB (International) Ltd, Unit 5-7, Hamilton Studios, Deep Pit Road, Speedwell, Association shows Bristol, BS5 7UF

Departmental Equality in 2005. Under the Equality Act (2010) there is now no legal obligation on public bodies to complete equality Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for impact assessments, but DEFRA has committed to Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what equality continue to complete equality assessments as good business impact assessments her Department has carried out practice. since May 2010; and for what purpose in each case. [88581] Between May 2010 and December 2011 DEFRA completed 24 equality impact assessments (EqIAs): Richard Benyon: DEFRA has undertaken equality impact assessments since they became a legal requirement

Business area Name of EqIA Date

Strategic HR Code of Conduct May 2010 Strategic HR Individual Development Appraisal May 2010 Strategic HR Joiners and Leavers process June 2010 Food and Farming Group TB Badger Control Policy September 2010 Strategic HR Childcare Strategy September 2010 Environment and Rural Group Rural Development Plan for England—policy revisions Initial screening November 2010 post 2010 spending review Farming for the Future Portfolio Responsibility and Cost Sharing Programme November 2010 Strategic HR Managing Attendance Policy November 2010 Finance (Ongoing Function/Performance Merger of the Internal Audit and Assurance Teams December 2010 Programme) Landscapes and The Big Tree Plant (Tree Planting December 741W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 742W

Business area Name of EqIA Date

Outdoor Recreation Campaign) 2010 Environment and Rural Group Reform of English fisheries management arrangements December 2010 Strategic HR Initial screening voluntary exit scheme February 2011 Waste Management Review of waste policies February 2011 Waste Management Hazardous Waste National Policy Statement March 2011 Strategic HR Full assessment voluntary exit screening May 2011 Atmosphere and Local Environment Programme Technical Guidance notes June 2011 Legal Proposed changes to structure of DEFRA Legal by June 2011 transferring staff to the Crown Prosecution Service. Water Abolition of the Inland Waterways Advisory Council June 2011 Consultation Change Programme DEFRA Change programme June 2011 Strategic HR Additional Paternity Leave and Pay Regulations June 2011 Policy Marine and Natural Environment New technical management measures for scallop August 2011 dredging in English waters (English Scallop Order) Food and Farming Group Task Force on Farming Regulation: CPH Review September 2011 Workstream Natural Environment Economics Rural Economy Growth Review October 2011 Communications Internal restructure October 2011

Departmental Manpower Departmental Responsibilities

Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs at how many Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many events organised by (a) charities, (b) other civil society speechwriters her Department employs at each pay groups, (c) businesses and (d) lobbying organisations grade. [89400] Ministers and senior officials in her Department have given speeches in each month since May 2010; and if Richard Benyon: DEFRA employs one member of she will make a statement. [77372] staff who writes speeches for Ministers, along with other duties. Her pay grade is Senior Information Officer. Richard Benyon: DEFRA does not record ministerial or senior official speeches by the specific categories of Departmental Procurement organisation requested and to provide the detailed information would incur disproportionate cost. However, the Department publishes speeches given David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for by Ministers on the departmental website at the following Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what procedures link: her Department has put in place to ensure value for money on purchases; and what savings have been http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/category/speeches/ realised through use of such procedures in the last year. Details of the Permanent Secretary’s meetings with [83642] external organisations dating back to 1 October 2010 can also be found on the website at the following link: Richard Benyon: DEFRA complies with the Cabinet http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/about/who/management/ Office central spending controls to ensure value for Departmental Voluntary Work money on purchases. These are set out in my answer of 11 January 2012, Official Report, columns 359-62W, to Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for the hon. Member for Pontypridd (Owen Smith). In Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what addition, core DEFRA is continually improving its volunteering (a) she and (b) other Ministers in her purchasing systems to deliver greater value for money. Department have undertaken as part of the One Day Challenge; what the nature of the work undertaken Not all the savings realised will be attributable to was; on what dates it took place; and what the names these controls and improvements, however overall were of the organisations assisted. [76240] procurement expenditure in core DEFRA in the year to October 2011 was £368,371,348—around 2% less than Richard Benyon: All DEFRA Ministers have pledged initial estimates. This is approximately 20% lower than to undertake the One Day Challenge to give time to in the previous year in which £459,362,066 was spent help others. The following is a list of activities undertaken from November 2009 to October 2010. to date:

Date Location Volunteer work

Secretary of State 29 October 2011 Knowle For ’Marie Curie Make a Difference Day’ 28 October 2011 The Priory, Solihull Recording a Talking Magazine greeting 14 October 2011 Mell Square, Solihull Bible reading for ’Bible 4 Life’ 1 October 2011 Knowle Parish Church Litter pick 743W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 744W

Date Location Volunteer work

Jim Paice 16 September 2011 Jarman Centre, Newmarket Q&A with Waterbeach Brownies

Richard Benyon 3 August 2011 Ashampsted Common Clearing scrub and ragwort for the Friends of the Pang, Kennet and Lambourn Valleys

My noble Friend the Lord Taylor will undertake the Richard Benyon: The Ecosystem Markets Task Force Challenge this year. is one of the Government’s key commitments from the Natural Environment White Paper, “The Natural Choice”. Dogs The Task Force, which is independent, will report by March 2013 to the Secretaries of State for: Business, Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Innovation and Skills, the right hon. Member for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she has Twickenham (Vince Cable); Energy and Climate Change, any plans to introduce a minimum age for dog the right hon. Member for Eastleigh (Chris Huhne); ownership. [89941] and Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Meriden (Mrs Spelman). It Mr Paice: The Government have no plans to introduce will review opportunities for UK businesses from expanding a minimum age for dog ownership. I consider that the green goods, services, products, investment vehicles, existing law which makes it an offence to sell a pet and markets which value and protect nature. My fellow animal to anyone under the age of 16 provides the Ministers and I have been very interested in its progress, necessary safeguards. and in recent months the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has met the Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Chair of the Task Force, Ian Cheshire, and attended the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she has Task Force’s launch event. any plans to require owners of breeding dogs to be Eggs: EU Law accredited. [89942]

Mr Paice: The independent Advisory Council on the Tim Farron: To ask the Secretary of State for Welfare Issues of Dog Breeding (DAC) was set up to Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she make recommendations about ways to improve the plans to take steps to block products containing eggs health and welfare of dogs bred and sold in this country. from import from countries that are not compliant The DAC has been meeting with key stakeholders on with the welfare of laying hens directive. [90282] this issue and the Government will consider any recommendations the DAC make for improving the Mr Paice: The UK’s enforcement strategy of the health and welfare of dogs bred in this country. welfare of laying hens directive is set out in the written ministerial statement laid in the House on 6 December Dogs: Tagging 2011, Official Report, columns 15-19WS. Environmental Protection Act 1990 Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what Joan Walley: To ask the Secretary of State for research her Department has undertaken on Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what advice she compulsory microchipping; [89943] has received on compliance of her Department’s (2) what plans she has to improve protection from proposed contaminated land statutory guidance with dangerous dogs; and if she will make a statement. Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. [89944] [88831]

Mr Paice: DEFRA is considering a number of options Richard Benyon: Authorisation to issue statutory guidance to promote more responsible ownership of dogs and under Part 2A of the Contaminated Land Regime is reduce the number of dog attacks. One option being given to the Secretary of State according to section considered, and which has been discussed with key 78YA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, as stakeholders, is the issue of compulsory microchipping amended by section 57 of the Environment Act 1995. of dogs. While the main purpose of microchipping is to promote good welfare by helping to reunite dogs with Fisheries: Licensing their owners should they become lost or stolen, the ability to link dog with owner also serves as an example Fiona O’Donnell: To ask the Secretary of State for of responsible ownership. The Government will make Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions an announcement on ways of promoting more responsible she has had with food retailers on the implications of a ownership of dogs and reducing dog attacks shortly. suspension of the Marine Stewardship Council’s licence for mackerel fishing. [88904] Ecosystem Markets Task Force Richard Benyon: Neither the Secretary of State for Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my right hon. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent Friend the Member for Meriden (Mrs Spelman), nor I assessment she has made of the work of the Ecosystem have had direct discussions with food retailers on the Markets Task Force. [89620] implications of a suspension of the Marine Stewardship 745W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 746W

Council’s certification of the North East Atlantic mackerel Floods: Insurance fisheries. I am aware, however, of this issue and DEFRA officials are in discussion with some of the major retailers, Mr David Davis: To ask the Secretary of State for the British Retail Consortium and representatives of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what the processing sector on this and related issues on the progress has been made by the working party formed ongoing dispute on the management of the mackerel after the Flood Summit in September 2010; [90277] fishery. (2) what progress has been made on identifying a Suspension of certification is a serious concern for replacement for the Statement of Principles between food retailers and other industry sectors. It is deeply the Association of British Insurers and the regrettable that the actions of others jeopardise certification Government before its expiry. [90432] after such good work by our industries to build the stock to its current healthy state. Richard Benyon: Since the Statement of Principles I take this situation very seriously and the possible was last renewed in 2008, it has always been intended removal of certification makes finding a solution to the that this would be the last renewal and that the current mackerel dispute all the more important. As the most agreement would expire on 30 June 2013. Following the important fishery to the UK in economic terms, it is Flood Summit we held in September 2010, three working vitally important that the sustainable future of the groups were set up to look at insurance models for stock is assured. flood risk, improving flood risk data, and property-level I will ensure that a dialogue with all affected industry resistance and resilience. The groups’ findings were sectors is maintained as this issue progresses, to ensure published in December 2011. that UK interests are properly represented and seek to At the same time, we announced that beyond the ensure that withdrawal of certification is avoided. expiry of the Statement of Principles in 2013, the Government will continue to invest to reduce the risk of Fisheries: Navy flooding, especially for those households at the highest flood risk and living in the most deprived communities. Mr Ellwood: To ask the Secretary of State for A new shared understanding is being developed that Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether her sets out more clearly what individual customers can Department provides funding towards meeting the cost expect from their insurer and from Government. It will of operating the UK’s fishery patrol vessels. [90222] reflect the continued responsibility and commitment of Government and insurers to making sure insurance for Richard Benyon: DEFRA does not provide any direct flood risk remains widely available. funding for the Royal Navy’s Fisheries Protection Squadron. It does provide grant in aid funding for the Marine Over the next few months we will consider the case Management Organisation, which currently contracts for additional measures to help safeguard the affordability the Royal Navy to provide surface surveillance activities of flood insurance for those groups that might struggle to enforce the common fisheries policy. most with premium increases. We plan to make further announcements in the spring. Fisheries: Subsidies Food: Additives Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for she has made of special report No. 12/2011 by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps her European Court of Auditors on the European Department is taking to encourage producers to reduce Fisheries Fund. [89356] preservatives and additives in children’s food. [89593] Richard Benyon: The European Court of Auditors (ECA) undertook an audit during the period May to Anne Milton: I have been asked to reply on behalf of October 2010. the Department of Health. The special report identified a failing of European The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has responsibility Fisheries Fund regulation to define the eligibility criteria for food additives issues. for all projects under Article 25 of EC 1198/2006: All food additives, including preservatives, are thoroughly Investments on board fishing vessels and selectivity. tested for safety prior to approval and have been reviewed This is specifically in relation to having no definition of by independent expert bodies. European Union legislation a vessel’s ’ability’ to catch fish. Further analytical work restricts the use of additives to certain categories of for all member states was commissioned in December foods and specified levels. These limits ensure that the 2011. Consultation is ongoing and this information will amount consumed does not exceed safe levels, for all be available later this month. age groups, and that the level in food is the minimum The special report is currently being reviewed. A necessary to achieve the intended purpose. specific Audit of the UK decommissioning scheme was Following a study commissioned by the FSA, and carried out by the ECA which informed this overall EU conducted by Southampton university, to see if six study. There may be aspects of the special report which specific colours had any effect on children’s behaviour, are not within the context of UK Audit findings. All 27 United Kingdom Ministers and the FSA asked the UK recommendations of the UK audit have been considered food industry for a voluntary withdrawal on the use of and addressed with the exception of post implementation those six colours. In addition, foods containing these evaluation of decommissioning in Scotland, which is colours are required to be labelled with a warning that due in early 2012. they may have an adverse effect on children’s behaviour. 747W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 748W

With the exception of these colours, we are advised Richard Benyon: A number of actions are being taken by the FSA that there are no plans to encourage food to help improve the status of the hen harrier. producers to further reduce additives in food at this Raptor persecution is a National Wildlife Crime Priority, stage. with the hen harrier being one of six species highlighted Food: Salt for special attention. DEFRA officials are involved with the Environment Council facilitated Hen Harrier Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Dialogue Working Group, which provides an opportunity Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps her for Government and other stakeholders to engage in Department is taking to encourage food producers to finding sustainable solutions to improve hen harrier reduce levels of salt in food products. [89594] population growth alongside the needs of grouse moor managers. In addition, the Langholm Moor Demonstration Anne Milton: I have been asked to reply on behalf of Project, supported by many of those involved in the the Department of Health. dialogue, is trialling methods, such as diversionary feeding, Work to reduce salt in food is being taken forward that might enable an economically viable grouse moor under the Public Health Responsibility Deal (RD). A and healthy hen harrier population to co-exist. wide range of businesses including retailers, manufacturers The hen harrier is also included on the list of priority and caterers have committed to the following salt reduction species in England published by DEFRA under section pledge to deliver a substantial reduction in the salt 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities content of United Kingdom foodstuffs: Act 2006. “We commit to the salt targets for the end of 2012 agreed by the Responsibility Deal, which collectively will deliver a further Landfill Tax 15% reduction on 2010 targets. For some products, this will require acceptable technical solutions which we are working to Simon Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for achieve. These targets will give a total salt reduction of nearly lg Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment per person per day compared to 2007 levels in food. We recognise she has made of the likely effect of increasing landfill that achieving the public health goal of consuming no more than 6g of salt per person per day will necessitate action across the tax on levels of food waste sent to landfill; and if she whole industry, Government, NGOs and individuals.” will make a statement. [88924] Around 70 organisations have already committed to Richard Benyon: We estimate the tonnage of food the salt pledge. waste sent to landfill will fall by around 14% between The RD salt targets have been developed for 80 2011 and 2016. This estimate takes account of all specific food groups that contribute most to population policies, not just landfill tax, but does not include salt intakes and are to be achieved by the end of 2012. policies announced as part of the 2011 Review of Waste Food: Waste Policy in England. Policies on food waste in the review, such as a new voluntary agreement with the hospitality Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for and food service sector, may have a further impact on Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she the amount of food waste sent to landfill. The Government’s plans to strengthen phase 2 of the Courtauld long-term vision is that no food waste goes to landfill. Commitment to reduce levels of household food waste. Landfill tax will increase from £56 per tonne in [89360] 2011-12 to £64 per tonne in 2012-13, £72 per tonne in Richard Benyon: Phase 2 of the Courtauld Commitment 2013-14 and £80 per tonne by 2015. targets a reduction in UK household food and drink Poultry: Animal Welfare waste of 4% by December 2012, compared with 2009, along with targets on the carbon impact of packaging Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for and supply chain waste. The targets for Phase 2 have Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what progress been carefully developed to be sufficiently challenging, her Department has made on its commitment to ban yet taking into account what is realistically achievable beak trimming by 2016. [89877] over the period of the agreement, including accounting for predicted market growth. Mr Paice: The Beak Trimming Action Group, comprising On 5 December 2011, the DEFRA funded Waste welfare groups, industry representatives, veterinarians, Review and Action Programme (WRAP) published interim Government officials and academics, was reconvened in results covering the first year (2009-10) of Courtauld 2011 to work towards the Government’s commitment Phase 2. We have made very good progress towards the to review the evidence in 2015, with a view to banning target on household food waste with a 3% reduction in beak trimming in 2016. The group has identified and household food waste in the first year of the agreement assessed the pros and cons of options aimed at delivering (2010 compared with 2009). this commitment and is in the process of finalising its The 2011 Waste Review committed the Government advice and recommended approach. to establishing the potential for a successor to Phase 2 Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for of the Courtauld Commitment with businesses in the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions food retail and manufacturing sector. We will be exploring her Department has had with the Ministry of options over the coming months. Agriculture in France on enforcement of the laying hen Hen Harriers: Nature Conservation regulations. [90012] Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Paice: As DEFRA Minister my officials and I Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether an have discussed enforcement in Brussels with the Commission action plans is in place to prevent the extinction of the and all member states, including the French Government, hen harrier as a breeding species in England. [88870] but no separate discussions have taken place. 749W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 750W

Professor Tim Lang Sussex Biodiversity Records Centre, which is hosted by SWT. SWT also receives annual funding in respect of Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for agri-environment agreements funded through the Rural Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether her Development Programme for England. Department has (a) commissioned work from and (b) SWT receives small grants from Natural England been advised by Professor Tim Lang. [89953] and the Environment Agency which both also fund the Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre for ongoing supply Richard Benyon: Under this Government, Professor of data on species and habitats to support conservation Tim Lang has not been commissioned to work for or planning. Additionally, the Environment Agency plans advise the Department. As with other academics, we to fund a partnership project between the SWT, the engage Professor Lang on an ad hoc basis to discuss Environment Agency and the Woodland Trust which policy related matters. will deliver environmental improvements in the Sussex Ouse catchment. Seals: Conservation Water Companies Stephen Lloyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for Government’s policy is on support for international Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when her efforts to prohibit trade in harp seal fur. [89548] Department will publish a white paper on the future of the water and sewerage industry. [89043] Mr Paice: The Government acknowledges the widespread concern in the UK about the inhumane nature of seal Richard Benyon: The Water White Paper, “Water for hunting practices in many parts of the world. We welcome Life”, was published on 8 December 2011. A copy of the introduction of Council Regulation 1007/2009 which the Water White Paper can be found at: introduced an EU ban on trade in seal products and http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/quality/water/ will continue to support EU measures to prohibit this legislation/whitepaper/ trade. Water Supply: Israel Sewers: Planning Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether her David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for Department has had discussions with (a) the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what legislative Government of Israel and (b) Israeli companies on proposals she plans to bring forward to simplify the new techniques for efficient use of water. [89955] law governing the relative contributions of developers to existing water and sewerage infrastructure when new Richard Benyon: I can confirm that none of the developments are built. [89200] DEFRA Ministers have had discussions with either the Government of Israel or any Israeli companies regarding Richard Benyon: The recently published Water White new techniques for efficient uses of water. Paper, ‘Water for Life’, confirms that the Ofwat and Cave reviews identified problems with how developers Water: Meters are charged for connecting to the water and sewerage infrastructure. The Government intend to increase the Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for transparency of charges within these developer Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment contributions. DEFRA officials are working with Ofwat her Department has made of the effect of water to review the existing charging provisions and identify impurities and particulates on the accuracy of options for a simplified methodology that would enable mechanical water meters. [89667] a reduction in administrative burdens. Richard Benyon: Impurities, such as grit or air, can Sussex Wildlife Trust get into the water network and cause problems with mechanical water meters. If a customer suspects inaccurate Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for meter readings, most water companies will arrange for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs under which the meter to be tested. If the meter is found to be category of expenditure her Department funds the providing inaccurate readings, it is likely that the water Sussex Wildlife Trust; and for what purpose. [89058] company would arrange for repair or replacement, as estimates for repair/replacement cycles are factored into Richard Benyon: DEFRA does not provide core funding company Capital Expenditure investment programmes. to the Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT). However, the trust The Water Industry’s Research body has conducted has received departmental funding for some particular relevant research in this area, in order to support more purposes. In September 2011 DEFRA awarded SWT, reliable and systematic testing of water meter accuracy. on behalf of the Sussex Biodiversity Partnership, a one-off grant from the Local Nature Partnership capacity Written Questions: Government Responses building fund to help it to explore the potential for a Local Nature Partnership in Sussex. In 2011-12 DEFRA’s Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Biodiversity Programme provided funds for a small Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she expects study to review and standardise the collection of to answer Question 77607, on applications from information on occurrence of wild species and habitats employees to run services for which her Department is in the south east of England. This project was led by the directly responsible, tabled on 26 October 2011. [87136] 751W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 752W

Richard Benyon: The answer to this question was on 12 January 2012, I wrote to some of the biggest given on 20 December 2011, Official Report, column employers and to other organisations in sectors historically 1104W. The delay was due to administrative errors. difficult to get into. Businesses contacted range from leading law firms and financial institutions to key cultural Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for and historic venues across Britain. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she plans A copy of the template letter sent to each of these to answer question 74828 on funding of civil society businesses will be published on the Business Compact organisations, tabled on 11 October 2011 for answer on website at: 13 October 2011; and what the reasons are for the time www.dpm.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/businesscompact taken to answer. [87575] New signatories will be listed on the Business Compact Richard Benyon: The answer to this question was website. published on 11 January 2012, Official Report, column 376W. The delay was due to administrative errors. Luciana Berger: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what reporting mechanisms have been put in place to monitor businesses taking part in the Business Compact scheme. [90426] DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER The Deputy Prime Minister: The Business Compact is Work Experience a voluntary agreement. Those businesses that have signed up have made a clear commitment to the Compact, Luciana Berger: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister highlighting the work they are doing to promote fair how many companies participating in the Business and open recruitment and encouraging others to follow Compact he expects to pay interns the national suit. minimum wage. [90423] We are considering a range of light touch measures to encourage businesses and young people alike to The Deputy Prime Minister: The Business Compact bring any possible issues to our attention. encourages companies to offer financial support to their interns so that they are genuinely open to all young people and not just those from well off backgrounds. In many cases payment of the national minimum CABINET OFFICE wage will be required under the law, and we are stepping up our communication and enforcement of the national Aviation minimum wage legislation in relation to interns. In other cases then the payment of expenses, eg for lunch Mark Field: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet and travel costs, will be a real help and we are encouraging Office (1) how many people identified as migrants in that as a minimum. the International Passenger Survey gave the reason for their visit as (a) a definite job to go to, (b) looking for Luciana Berger: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister work, (c) a working holiday, (d) a business trip, (e) what guidelines he plans to provide to companies accompany/join whose previous occupation was work participating in the Business Compact on the definition and (f) other whose previous occupation was not of (a) an intern, (b) an internship and (c) the ‘houseperson’ or ‘retired’ in each year from 2004 to circumstances in which interns are legally entitled to be 2010; [89915] paid at the national minimum wage. [90424] (2) how many of the people interviewed for the International Passenger Survey were identified as a (a) The Deputy Prime Minister: Guidance on the likely long-term and (b) short-term migrant in each year characteristics of internships and what an intern might from 2004 to 2010; [89916] expect from such a placement is outlined in the Common (3) how many interviews with migrants did Best Practice Code for High Quality Internships published International Passenger Survey conducted in each year by the Gateway to the Professions Collaborative Forum: from 2004 to 2010; and what the (a) port of entry and http://www.bis.gov.uk/assets/biscore/higher-education/docs/c/ (b) nationality was of each such interviewee. [89917] 11-1068-common-best-practice-code-for-quality- internships.pdf Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Information and advice covering the circumstances responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have in which interns are legally entitled to the national asked the authority to reply. minimum wage is available on the Business Link website: Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/ As Director General for the Office for National Statistics detail?itemId=1096811532&r.l1=1073858787&r.I2=1081657912&r (ONS), I have been asked to respond to your questions asking: .I3=1096811513&r.s=sc&type=RESOURCES 1. How many people identified as migrants in the International Luciana Berger: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if Passenger Survey gave the reason for their visit as (a) a definite job to go to, (b) looking for work, (c) a working holiday, (d) a he will publish a copy of each letter he sent to business trip, (e) accompany/join whose previous occupation was companies asking them to participate in the Business work and (f) other whose previous occupation was not ’houseperson’ Compact and the responses received. [90425] or’ retired’ in each year from 2004 to 2010 [89915] 2. How many of the people interviewed for the International The Deputy Prime Minister: Following the announcement Passenger Survey were identified as a (a) long-term and (b) of 115 signatories to the Social Mobility Business Compact short-term migrant in each year from 2004 to 2010 [89916] 753W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 754W

3. How many interviews with migrants the International Passenger A prospectus of the outputs to be produced from the Census Survey (IPS) conducted in each year from 2004 to 2010; and what will be published in March; current plans are to release the first the (a) port of entry and (b) nationality was of each such results from the 2011 Census in England and Wales in July 2012. interviewee [89917] The results for Scotland and Northern Ireland will be published Table 1 shows the number of long-term migrants identified in separately by National Records Scotland and the Northern Ireland the IPS as having arrived in the UK by main reason for visit and Statistics and Research Agency respectively. previous occupation, per calendar year from 2004 to 2010. The results will be published with information about the Table 2 shows the number of long-term migrants identified in quality and the quality assurance process that ONS carried out the IPS as having arrived in the UK, per calendar year from 2004 prior to publication. to 2010. Similarly Table 3 shows the number of short-term migrants arrivals identified in the UK per calendar year from Childbirth: Wales 2004 to 2008. This is the latest information available and has been produced for the UK and per calendar year for comparison purposes. Short-term migration estimates are published for England Jessica Morden: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet and Wales only and by mid-year. Office how many babies were born in Wales in 2011. Table 4a and b show the port of entry and the citizenship of [90389] long-term migrants arriving in the UK, for calendar years from 2004 to 2010. The contacts provided refer to the number of Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the people interviewed who were identified as migrants whose intention responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have was to stay 12 months or longer. asked the authority to reply. Copies of the tables have been placed in the House of Commons Library. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Birth Rate: Greater London have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking how many babies were born in Wales in 2011 (90389). Figures for the number of live births to women usually resident Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet in Wales are compiled from birth registration data. Figures for the Office what the birth rate was in (a) Poplar and whole of 2011 are not yet available. (b) Limehouse constituency, the London borough of The following table provides the latest available figures, which Tower Hamlets and (c) nationally in the latest period are for the first two quarters of 2011: for which figures are available. [89866] Provisional numbers of live births to mothers usually resident in Wales, 2011 quarters 1 and 2 Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the 2011 Live births (thousand) responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Quarter 1 8.7 Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: Quarter 2 8.8 Note: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Provisional data have been asked to reply to your recent question asking what the Source: birth rate was in (a) Poplar and Limehouse constituency (b) the Office for National Statistics London Borough of Tower Hamlets, and (c) nationally, in the These data were published in November 2011 and are available latest period for which figures are available. 89866 at: The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has been supplied as this is the www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/vsob1/vital-statistics--population- most useful measure of an area’s fertility level. The TFR is the and-health-reference-tables/winter-2011-update/quarterly-birth- average number of live children that a group of women would and-death-tables.xls each bear if they experienced the age-specific fertility rates of the Provisional figures for quarter 3 of 2011 will be published in calendar year in question throughout their childbearing lifespan. Spring 2012 and ONS intends to publish final quarterly and annual data for 2011 in July/August 2012. Total fertility rate (TFR), selected areas, 2010 Area TFR Departmental Manpower (a) Poplar and Limehouse constituency 1.88 (b) Tower Hamlets London Borough 1.69 (c) England and Wales 2.00 Luciana Berger: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many speechwriters his Department Census employs at each pay grade. [89410] Mr Maude: The Cabinet Office employs two full-time Mr Spellar: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet speechwriters, one at TIS3 grade and the other at Band Office when he expects the first assessment of the A. Pay grades are £36,371 to £47,167 and £44,300 to results of the 2011 Census to be published. [89952] £59,885 respectively. The Cabinet Office also publishes this data. Figures for September 2011 can be found at: Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the https://update.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/sites/default/files/ responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have resources/CabinetOfficestaffandSalarydataSEPT2011 asked the authority to reply. FINAL_juniordata.csv Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics Departmental Work Experience (ONS) I have been asked to reply to your recent question to the Minister for the Cabinet Office asking when the first assessment of the results of the 2011 Census will be published. (89952) Luciana Berger: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet The main field operation for the 2011 Census in England and Office what guidelines his Department issues to its Wales was completed at the end of May, and the significant task non-departmental public bodies on the employment of of processing and quality assuring the data is underway. unpaid interns. [89409] 755W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 756W

Mr Maude: We expect all Cabinet Office non- Lone parent households with dependent children in Poplar and departmental public bodies to prioritise paid intern Limehouse constituency, Tower Hamlets and the UK, 2010 opportunities. Area Estimate (thousand) From 1 April 2011 to 31 December 2011 the Cabinet Poplar and Limehouse 4 Office’s non-departmental public bodies employed no Tower Hamlets 7 unpaid or expenses-only interns. UK 1,840 As with any sample survey, estimates from the Annual Population Employment Survey are subject to a margin of uncertainty.

Hilary Benn: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many (a) pensioners and (b) people of Office what the average number of children per working age there are in each parliamentary household was in (a) Poplar and Limehouse constituency in England. [90227] constituency, (b) the London borough of Tower Hamlets and (c) nationally in the latest period for Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the which figures are available. [89868] responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I asked the authority to reply. have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question asking how many (a) pensioners and (b) people of working age Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: there are in each parliamentary constituency in England (90227). As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I The table shows (a) the number of people aged 65 and over for have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking men and 60 and over for women and (b) the number of people what the average number of children per household was in (a) aged 16 to 64 for men and 16 to 59 for women for mid-2010. This Poplar and Limehouse constituency, (b) the London Borough of is the latest year for which population estimates are available. Tower Hamlets and (c) nationally in the latest period for which figures are available. 89868 The age groups given for pensioners in the table are the closest available approximation to state pension age at mid-2010 that can The number of households and children in the UK can be be obtained for population estimates by parliamentary constituency. estimated using the Annual Population Survey. The figures below On 30 June 2010 state pension age was 65 for men and 60 years take account of dependent children, namely those living with and 57 days for women. their parent(s) and either (a) aged under 16, or (b) aged 16 to 18 in full-time education, excluding children aged 16 to 18 who have a Copies of the table have been placed in the House of Commons spouse, partner or child living in the household. Library. Two measures are shown: The average number of dependent Mid-2010 population estimates for parliamentary constituencies children per household for all households including those containing in England were published as experimental statistics on 26 October no children, and per household containing at least one dependent 2011 and are the latest available. The estimates are available at: child. These are shown for Poplar and Limehouse constituency, http://ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/sape/parliament-constituency-pop- the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and the UK in 2010. est/mid-2010-release/index.html Average number of dependent children per household, and per Households: Greater London household containing at least one dependent child, in Poplar and Limehouse constituency, Tower Hamlets and the UK, 2010 Average number of Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Average number of dependent children Office how many single parent households there were dependent children per household in (a) Poplar and Limehouse constituency, (b) the per household (all containing at least London borough of Tower Hamlets and (c) nationally Area households) one dependent child in the latest period for which figures are available. Poplar and 0.61 2.21 [89864] Limehouse Tower Hamlets 0.55 2.11 Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the UK 0.51 1.76 responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. As with any sample survey, estimates from the Annual Population Survey are subject to a margin of uncertainty. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Pay: Scotland have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking how many single parent households there were in (a) Poplar and Limehouse constituency, (b) the London Borough of Tower Mr Davidson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Hamlets and (c) nationally in the latest period for which figures Office what estimate he has made of the number of are available. 89864 people who would have earned a wage lower than the The number and type of households in the UK can be estimated level of the national minimum wage if there was no using the Annual Population Survey. Estimates are provided for national minimum wage in (a) Glasgow South West lone parent households with at least one dependent child. Dependent constituency, (b) Glasgow, (c) Scotland and (d) the children are those living with their parent(s) and either (a) aged under 16, or (b) aged 16 to 18 in full-time education, excluding UK in each year since 1999. [90373] children aged 16 to 18 who have a spouse, partner or child living in the household. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Data are shown for Poplar and Limehouse constituency, the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have London Borough of Tower Hamlets and the UK in 2010. asked the authority to reply. 757W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 758W

Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: HEALTH As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Baby Care Units: Nurses have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking what estimate he has made of the number of people who would have earned a wage lower than the level of the national minimum Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Health wage if there was no national minimum wage in (a) Glasgow how many neonatal nurses there were providing care South West constituency, (b) Glasgow, (c) Scotland and (d) the for those living in south London in (a) 2010 and (b) UK in each year since 1999. (90373) 2011; and what estimate he has made of the number of ONS does not make estimates of the numbers of people who such nurses in 2012. [89901] would have earned less than the national minimum wage rates set each year if no legislation existed to set those rates in the first Anne Milton: I refer the hon. Member to the written place. answers I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Great A guide to measuring low pay and associated articles can be Yarmouth (Brandon Lewis), on 12 December 2011, found on the National Statistics website at: Official Report, column 542W. http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/ashe/low-pay/methodology-for- Baby Care Units: Standards low-pay-estimates/index.html Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what meetings he has had to discuss standards of NHS Population Studies: Migration neonatal care. [89902]

Mark Field: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Anne Milton: I met representatives from Bliss on Office whether he plans to include migrants who come 28 October 2010 and 3 May 2011 to discuss the standards to the UK for less than 12 months in official and good practice principles set out in the National population estimates. [89862] Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence’s ‘Quality Standard for Specialist Neonatal Care’ and the Department’s national health service ‘Toolkit for High Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Quality Neonatal Services’. responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: what recent assessment his Department has made of As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I the relationship between levels of neonatal nursing have been asked to respond to your Parliamentary question staff and child mortality. [89903] asking the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether he plans to include migrants who come to the UK for less than 12 months in Anne Milton: No assessment has been made centrally. official population estimates (89862). The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence The Mid-Year Population Estimates as they are currently and the Department have published two evidence-based published are consistent with the standard UN definition for documents, the “Quality Standard for Specialist Neonatal population estimates which is based upon the concept of usual Care” and the “Toolkit for High Quality Neonatal residence and includes people who reside in the location for at Services”, to assist NHS commissioners and providers least 12 months. This definition is also the recommended definition in the provision of high quality care for babies and their used by Eurostat to provide comparable population data at EU families, including neonatal workforce standards. These level. documents have already been placed in the Library and Visitors and short-term migrants (who enter or leave the UK are available at: for less than 12 months) are not included in the official population estimates and there are no plans to do so. Quality Standard for Specialist Neonatal Care is available at: ONS currently publishes England and Wales estimates of short-term migrant inflows and the next bulletin is due to be www.nice.org.uk/media/17A/A8/ published on 23 February. Additionally ONS plans to publish SpecialistNeonatalQualityStandardRevisedOct10.pdf recently developed experimental short-term migration inflow estimates Toolkit for High Quality Neonatal Services is available for each local authority on 23 February. These estimates will help at: local authorities understand how many short term migrants www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/ entered each England and Wales local authority for work or study @dh/@en/@ps/@sta/@perf/documents/digitalasset/ purposes and stayed for periods of between 3-12 months in the dh_108435.pdf mid-years 2008-2010. It should be noted however that these estimates are inflows of short-term migrants, not stocks. Bone Diseases

Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Third Sector Health what the incidence of (a) rickets and (b) osteomalacia was in (i) Poplar and Limehouse Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet constituency, (ii) the London borough of Tower Office how much funding his Department allocated to Hamlets and (iii) nationally in the latest period for (a) Centrepoint, (b) Crisis, (c) Skill Force and (d) which figures are available. [89865] Shelter in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; and if he will Anne Milton: The number of episodes of rickets and make a statement. [90397] osteomalacia for the Poplar and Limehouse constituency is not available. Data from the Hospital Episode Statistics Mr Hurd: In the financial year 2010-11 and up to the (HES) on the number of episodes of rickets and end of December in 2011-12, the Cabinet Office has not osteomalacia in 2010-11 in the London borough of directly funded Centrepoint, Crisis, Skill Force or Shelter. Tower Hamlets is 13 and nationally is 2,125. 759W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 760W

These figures do not equal incidence of disease, but a HealthWatch will also use their membership on health count of hospital treatments where this has been recorded. and wellbeing. boards to help ensure the voices of the The number of episodes does not represent the number whole community, including young people, are fed in. of different patients, as a person may be admitted on Nationally, we have development work underway to more than one occasion in any given year. improve the data collected on child health so the national The data are grouped as shown because the codes health service and public health outcomes frameworks used to classify rickets include both ‘active rickets’ and as they develop can better drive improvements for children’s ‘infantile and juvenile osteomalacia’. The codes used to wellbeing. classify osteomalacia include both ‘adult osteomalacia’ and ‘adult rickets’. Circle Health Reference should be made to the footnotes when 1,2,3,4,5 Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for interpreting the data provided. Health what meetings (a) Ministers and (b) special 1 The number of Finished Consultant Episodes with a primary or advisers in his Department have had with secondary diagnosis of rickets and osteomalacia have been defined representatives of Circle Health. [89602] by ICD-10 classification codes E55.0 and M83 for Tower Hamlets primary care trust (PCT) or residence in England 2010-11. Mr Simon Burns: Details of ministerial meetings with 2 A finished consultant episode (FCE) is a continuous period of external organisations, and of hospitality received by admitted patient care under one consultant within one health special advisers, are published quarterly in arrears on care provider. FCEs are counted against the year in which they the Department’s website at: end. 3 www.dh.gov.uk/en/Aboutus/ The number of episodes in which the patient had a (named) MinistersandDepartmentLeaders/Departmentdirectors/ primary or secondary diagnosis indicates where this diagnosis DH_110759 was recorded in any of the 20 (14 from 2002-03 to 2006-07 and seven prior to 2002-03) primary and secondary diagnosis fields in a Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) record. Each episode is only Departmental Manpower counted once, even if the diagnosis is recorded in more than one diagnosis field of the record. Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for 4 HES are compiled from data sent by more than 300 NHS trusts Health how many speechwriters his Department and PCTs in England and from some independent sector organisations employs at each pay grade. [89394] for activity commissioned by the English NHS. Changes to the figures over time need to be interpreted in the context of improvements Mr Simon Burns: There are three full-time equivalent in data quality and coverage .and changes in NHS practice. speechwriters employed by the Department. One grade 5 The strategic health authority (SHA) or PCT of residence is that 6, one grade 7 and one higher executive officer. containing the patient’s normal home address. This does not necessarily reflect where the patient was treated as they may have Departmental Work Experience travelled to another SHA/PCT for treatment. Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Children: Health Health what guidelines his Department issues to its non-departmental public bodies on the employment of Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Health unpaid interns. [89393] what steps he is taking to encourage health and wellbeing boards to measure and monitor children’s Mr Simon Burns: The Department does not issue subjective well-being as a key outcome in their local guidance to its non-departmental public bodies on the area. [90157] employment of unpaid interns. Executive non-departmental public bodies are independent bodies, established through Anne Milton: Health and wellbeing boards will make legislation. As such they employ non civil servants on decisions locally on key priorities through joint strategic their staff and determine their own employment terms needs assessments (JSNAs) and joint health and wellbeing and conditions. On the employment of unpaid interns strategies. They will decide locally how best to monitor they will be guided by relevant legislation and comply delivery of these priorities. with employment law. Statutory guidance on JSNAs and joint health and Employment Agencies wellbeing strategies will emphasise the importance of understanding and addressing the needs of children Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and young people; and health and wellbeing boards will how much his Department spent on recruitment have a statutory duty to involve local people, including agencies in each month since September 2011. [87996] young people in developing JSNAs and joint health and wellbeing strategies. Mr Simon Burns: The following table sets out information The director of children’s services will be a statutory from the Department’s central procurement system on member of the health and wellbeing board, to ensure core Department of Health spend on recruitment agencies the needs of children are taken into account. Local from 1 September to 30 November 2011.

Sum of invoice accounted amount excluding VAT £ Invoice accounted period Supplier name 1 September 2011 1 October 2011 1 November 2011 Total

Badenoch and Clark Ltd 29,636.26 266,234.72 91,868.58 387,739.56 761W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 762W

Sum of invoice accounted amount excluding VAT £ Invoice accounted period Supplier name 1 September 2011 1 October 2011 1 November 2011 Total

Brook Street UK Ltd 16,362.96 27,349.68 13,498.46 57,211.10 Capita Resourcing Ltd 31,858.38 34,513.84 38,825.76 105,197.98 Capita SHG Resourcing 32,932.90 38,308.00 8,380.00 79,620.90 Elan Computing 5,160.78 6,518.88 0.00 11,679.66 Hays Specialist Recruitment 247,601.54 238,774.49 309,110.43 795,486.46 Ltd Kelly Services UK Ltd 16,204.88 8,840.81 8,125.65 33,171.34 Northgate HR Ltd 22,080.50 0.00 0.00 22,080.50 Northgate UK Ltd 111,376.32 141,967.68 0.00 253,344.00 Office Angels Ltd 5,795.61 4,144.36 14,894.93 24,834.90 Parity Resources Ltd 119,506.53 210,940.27 175,085.99 505,532.79 Randstad Interim Executives 91,166.00 56,399.20 71,440.90 219,006.10 Reed Specialist Recruitment 97,921.21 40,639.41 36,801.15 175,361.77 Ltd Sand Resources Ltd 104,611.91 112,308.56 104,923.36 321,843.83 Stopgap Group Ltd 7,954.91 0.00 3,880.44 11,835.35 Tate 5,808.63 7,886.29 15,077.17 28,772.09 Venn Group Ltd 80,964.22 21,150.00 11,306.02 113,420.24 Total 1,026,943.54 1,215,976.19 903,218.84 3,146,138.57

The following table sets out information on Connecting for Health spend on recruitment agencies from 1 September to 30 November 2011.

Sum of invoice accounted amount excluding VAT £ Invoice accounted period Supplier name 1 September 2011 1 October 2011 1 November 2011 Total

Michael Page International 12,010.25 2,447.63 489.53 14,947.41 Hayes Specialist Recruitment 0.00 4,569.00 913.80 5,482.80 Total 12,010.25 7,016.63 1,403.33 20,430.21 Notes: 1. September 2011 amounts contains two actual invoices and VAT adjustments for prior months invoices. 2. November 2011 amount shows VAT adjustments for prior month invoices.

EU Law Directive are still to be assessed and assumptions will be included in an impact assessment as part of our consultation process on the directive. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Directive 2010/84/EU (Pharmacovigilance) which EU (a) Directives, (b) Regulations and (c) other legislation affecting his Department require We plan to implement Directive 2010/84/EU amending, as regards pharmacovigilance, Directive 2001/83/EC on the Community transposition into UK law; and what estimate he has code relating to medicinal products for human use on 21 July made of the cost to (i) the public purse and (ii) the 2012. A preliminary assessment of the costs of the directive has private sector of such measures. [89683] been made in a current public consultation. This assessment identifies annual net cost to UK business at £0.8 million (annual Mr Simon Burns: The Department is responsible for costs £4.5 million, annual benefits £3.7 million) and annual cost the transposition of the following European Union to the public sector at £2.6 million. legislation into UK law: Directive 2011/24/EU (Cross Border healthcare) Directive 2010/53/EU (Organ transplantation) We plan to implement Directive 2011/24/EU on Cross Border Healthcare allowing EU citizens to seek planned healthcare treatment Organ Directive 2010/53/EU on standards of quality and in other EU member states on 25 October 2013. Associated costs safety of human organs intended for transplantation requires have not yet been estimated, and will be included in an impact transposition by 27 August 2012. The initial total estimated setup assessment as part of the Department of Health consultation cost for the public sector (NHS both centrally and at transplant process planned for the summer of 2012. centres) is £2.758 million, with an ongoing cost over a 10-year period of around £1.605 million per year. Over the same period, the set-up cost for the private sector has been estimated at Family Planning: Finance £300,000 with an annual ongoing cost of £345,000. The Department has recently carried out an external consultation on a proposed Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for implementation approach for the Organ Directive. Cost estimates Health how much his Department spent on family will be reviewed in light of responses received. planning services in (a) Poplar and Limehouse Directive 2011/62/EU (Falsified Medicines) constituency, (b) the London borough of Tower We plan to implement Directive 2011/62/EU on 2 January Hamlets and (c) nationally in the latest period for 2013. The costs of the implementation of the Falsified Medicines which figures are available. [89867] 763W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 764W

Anne Milton: Funding for sexual health services, including In 2009-10, 3,139 incidents involving medical devices family planning services, forms part of the allocations were reported. made to primary care trusts (PCTs). In 2010-11, 3,162 incidents involving medical devices The Department does not collect information on were reported. PCT spending on family planning services. The Department of Health’s Defects and Failures reporting system for non-medical equipment and services receives General Practitioners reports of incidents involving non-medical devices, plants and equipment. Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for In 2009-10,16 incidents were reported. Health pursuant to the answer of 14 November 2011, Official Report, column 602W, on clinical In 2010-11, 27 incidents were reported. commissioning groups, if he will publish his estimates The Human Tissue Authority collects data on serious of the running costs of shadow clinical commissioning adverse events and reactions in relation to two areas: groups; and by what means his Department took into incidents relating to post mortems; and incidents relating account variations of running costs across the country to human applications. in its proposal for a flat rate of £25 a head in running In 2009-10,124 incidents were reported relating to costs. [89718] human applications. In 2010-11,126 incidents were reported relating to Mr Simon Burns: The running cost allowance for human applications. clinical commissioning groups will be part of the 2012-13 shadow allocations for clinical commissioning groups, In 2009-10, 34 incidents were reported relating to which will be issued early in 2012, and the actual post mortems. allocations to clinical commissioning groups for 2013-14 In 2010-11, 55 incidents were reported relating to will be made before the end of 2012. post mortems. We have considered variations of existing running NHS Protect collate figures on reported physical costs across the country and have determined that the assaults against NHS staff in England. clinical commissioning group running cost envelope of In 2009-10, 56,718 physical assaults were reported. £25 per head is the optimal allowance. In 2010-11, 57,830 physical assaults were reported. Health Services: Accidents Health Services: Foreign Nationals

Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Jason McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many adverse incidents were recorded in Health (1) how much is owed to the NHS by foreign the NHS in each of the last two years. [89719] governments for emergency care of their citizens in (a) Huddersfield and Calderdale Primary Care Trust and Mr Simon Burns: Information on adverse incidents in (b) nationally; [89492] the national health service is recorded and reported on (2) how much was recovered from foreign a number of different systems, depending on the nature governments for emergency treatment of their citizens of the incident. Such information that is available nationally in (a) Huddersfield and Calderdale Primary Care for the last two complete financial years is provided as Trust and (b) the NHS nationally in (i) 2009, (ii) 2010 follows. Incidents may be recorded and reported on and (iii) 2011. [89493] more than one system. Further information on adverse incidents recorded in the NHS, that is not collected Anne Milton: Under domestic legislation, access to nationally, may be available from individual NHS accident and emergency treatment is free of charge to organisations. individuals in the United Kingdom, regardless of The National Patient Safety Agency collects reports nationality. However, under European Union rules, of patient safety incidents through the National Reporting members states must reimburse each other for a healthcare and Learning System. provided to their citizens as either temporary visitors In 2009-10, 1,053,758 incidents were reported. accessing emergency care via the European Health In 2010-11,1,145,290 incidents were reported. Insurance Card, workers posted by an employer from one country to another, state pensioners, those accessing The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory elective treatment in another country at the cost of their Agency (MHRA) collects data on adverse drug reactions home country and dependents of these categories. (ADRs) through the Yellow Card scheme. As the Yellow Card scheme collects data for the United Kingdom is The following table shows how much, in total, has not possible to determine the number of reports originating been paid to the United Kingdom, by European Economic from the English NHS. Area (EEA) countries for years 2008-09, 2009-10 and 2010-11. In 2009-10, the MHRA received a total of 23,966 suspected ADR reports and of these 10,465 (43.7%) It is not possible to break the figures down to cover were received directly from health professionals. emergency care only, or by geographical area.

In 2010-11 the MHRA received a total of 25,793 Payments received by the United suspected ADR reports and of these 11,419 (44.3%) Kingdom (£) were received directly from health professionals. 2008-09 33,100,000 The MHRA also collects data on incidents involving 2009-10 40,500,000 medical devices through the Medical Device Adverse 2010-11 51,700,000 Incident Centre database. 765W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 766W

Visitors from non-EEA Countries (other than where commitments, that will help support frontline staff, a reciprocal agreement exists) are charged for any emergency including healthcare professionals, to improve victim treatment that is provided outside of the Accident and care as well as enhance their ability to respond early, or Emergency Unit of a hospital. In such cases, the patient, even before harm has occurred. rather than their government is financially liable. Multi-agency guidance for all frontline practitioners on meeting the needs of trafficked people was issued in Jason McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for October 2009. The “Trafficking Toolkit: Tackling Health how many foreign nationals received emergency Trafficking” includes a specific section frontline health care in (a) Huddersfield and Calderdale Primary Care practitioners on how to identify and respond to the Trust and (b) the NHS in (i) 2009, (ii) 2010 and (iii) needs of trafficking victims more effectively, including 2011. [89494] those that might not present immediately. Mr Simon Burns: This information is not collected in the format requested at primary care trust (PCT) level. Health Services: Older People Available data relates only to foreign residents who are temporarily visiting the United Kingdom, not all foreign Mr Bradshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for nationals. Health how many admissions to hospital were recorded The most relevant available data for Calderdale and from a (a) nursing home and (b) residential care home Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust Accident and for people aged over 74 in each primary care trust in Emergency (A and E) are as follows: the last year for which figures are available. [89912] Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust Paul Burstow: The NHS Information Centre for Health 2009-10 2010-11 2011-121 and Social Care collects data on finished admission A and E attendances by 12 21 8 episodes as part of Hospital Episode Statistics (HES). foreign residents HES data on the number of finished admission episodes Total A and E 130,906 134,532 58,955 for those aged over 74, by source of admission and attendances primary care trust of residence, for the year 2010-11, Foreign residents as 0.01 0.02 0.01 has been placed in the Library. percentage total A and E attendances Hearing Impairment: Somerset England 1 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health A and E attendances by 130,603 75,704 40,145 what information his Department holds on deaf and foreign residents hard of hearing children and young people in Total A and E 15,569,736 16,241,015 7,214,114 Somerset. [89489] attendances Foreign residents as 0.8 0.5 0.6 Anne Milton: The NHS Information Centre for health percentage total A and E and social care holds the following information on attendances behalf of the Department on deaf or hard of hearing 1 2011-12 data to date (April to August). children and young people in Somerset. Notes: 1. Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data is four months in arrears. The number of people aged 0 to 17 on the registers of the deaf 2. HES definition of foreign residents includes Channel Islands and and hard of hearing as at 31 March 2007 and 2010, as set out in Isle of Man. table 1. This data collection began in 1983 and previous collections are also held by the NHS Information Centre. The registers for Jason McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for 2001 and 2004 are available on the Department website at: Health from which five countries the highest number of www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Statistics/ foreign nationals sought emergency treatment by the StatisticalWorkAreas/Statisticalsocialcare/DH_4095911 NHS in (a) England and (b) Huddersfield and The number of people aged 0 to 17 on the register of blind and Calderdale primary care trust in (i) 2009, (ii) 2010 and partially sighted persons with an additional disability of ‘deaf (iii) 2011. [89715] with speech’, ‘deaf without speech’ or ‘hard of hearing’ as at 31 March 2006, 2008 and 2011, as set out in table 2. This data Mr Simon Burns: This information is not centrally collection began in 1973 and previous collections are also held by collected. the NHS Information Centre. The registers for 2000 and 2003 are Nationality is not recorded on Hospital Episode Statistics available on the Department website at: which is the data source used for accident and emergency www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Statistics/ attendance analysis. The only relevant data category is StatisticalWorkAreas/Statisticalsocialcare/DH_4095911 ’foreign’, but this is not broken down further. Information on hospital episodes for children who Health Services: Human Trafficking are deaf or hard of hearing is also held by the NHS Information Centre as part of the Hospital Episodes Mr Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Statistics (HES) collection. HES may be able to provide what guidance is provided to NHS staff on recognising information relating to episodes, appointments or potential victims of human trafficking. [89507] attendances where the reason for attendance is related to a hearing problem but does not hold information on Anne Milton: The Government published their Human deaf or hard of hearing patients that are seen at hospital. Trafficking Strategy “Human Trafficking—The This information is being collated and will be placed in Government’s Strategy” in July 2011. It contains the Library. 767W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 768W

Table 1: Number of people aged 0 to 17 years on the register of deaf or hard of hearing within Somerset, Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset primary care trust (PCT) areas as at 31 March 2007 and 2010

2007 2010

Register of hard of Register of hard of Register of deaf hearing Register of deaf hearing

Somerset PCT 40 85 — 5

Bath and North East —0—0 Somerset PCT

North Somerset PCT — 0 0 0

Notes: 1. Figures are provided as in the original publications; numbers less than six are suppressed and represented as a dash on the table. Larger numbers are rounded to the nearest five. 2. Data on the number of people registered as deaf or hard of hearing in England was compiled from the ‘SSDA910 Register of People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing’ return; data were submitted every three years as at 31 March by Councils with Social Services Responsibilities (CSSRs) to the NHS Information Centre. This collection has now ceased following consultation, in September 2011. 3. Under Section 29 of the National Assistance Act 1948, councils are required to compile and maintain classified registers of ‘persons who are blind, deaf or dumb and other persons who are substantially and permanently handicapped by illness, injury, or congenital deformity. 4. Although there are no formal examination procedures for determining whether a person is deaf or hard of hearing for the purposes of section 29, cases should be classified as follows: Deaf: Those who (even with a hearing aid) have little or no useful hearing. Hard of Hearing: Those who (with or without a hearing aid) have some useful hearing and whose normal method of communication is by speech, listening and lip reading. 5. Since registration is voluntary, these figures will not provide a complete picture of the number of people aged 0 to 17 years in Somerset who are deaf or hard of hearing. 6. People who are registered as deaf or hard of hearing that are also blind or partially sighted are recorded on the register of blind and partially sighted persons (SSDA 902 form) and are therefore not included in these figures. Source: Registers of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons—SSDA 910 form

Table 2: Number of people aged 0-17 years registered blind or partially sighted who also have a hearing impairment within Somerset, Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset primary care trust (PCT) areas as at 31 March 2006, 2008 and 2011 Additional disability Of which: Deaf With speech Without speech Hard of Hearing

Blind with hearing impairment 2011 Somerset PCT 0 0 0 0 Bath and North East 000 0 Somerset PCT North Somerset PCT 0 0 0 0 2008 Somerset PCT 0 0 0 — Bath and North East 000 0 Somerset PCT North Somerset PCT 0 0 0 0 2006 Somerset PCT — 0 — — Bath and North East 000 0 Somerset PCT North Somerset PCT 0 0 0 0

Partially sighted with hearing impairment 2011 Somerset PCT 0 0 0 0 Bath and North East 000 0 Somerset PCT North Somerset PCT 0 0 0 0 2008 Somerset PCT — — 0 5 Bath and North East 000 0 Somerset PCT North Somerset PCT 0 0 0 0 2006 Somerset PCT 0 0 0 — Bath and North East 000 0 Somerset PCT 769W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 770W

Table 2: Number of people aged 0-17 years registered blind or partially sighted who also have a hearing impairment within Somerset, Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset primary care trust (PCT) areas as at 31 March 2006, 2008 and 2011 Additional disability Of which: Deaf With speech Without speech Hard of Hearing

North Somerset PCT 0 0 0 0 Notes: 1. Figures are provided as in the original publications; numbers less than six are suppressed and represented as a dash on the table. Larger numbers are rounded to the nearest five. 2. In England these data are compiled from the triennial return SSDA 902 submitted by councils with social services responsibilities to the NHS Information Centre for health and social care. 3. The SSDA 902 collection was brought forward by a year for collection in 2008, due to concerns regarding the fall in the number of people newly registered as blind and partially sighted between March 2003 and March 2006. This meant there was no collection in 2009. 4. Registration of blindness is voluntary and so cannot be thought of as providing a definitive number of blind and partially sighted people. However, it is a pre-condition for the receipt of certain financial benefits. It is this factor which gives greater credibility to the “Register of the Blind” than to the “Register of the Partially Sighted” and to other disability registration records maintained by councils, where the voluntary principle also applies. Registration is not, however, a pre-requisite for certain social services concessions and this factor, combined with uncertainties about the regularity with which the councils review and update their records, makes it difficult to assign a degree of reliability to either of these registers. 5. The statistics relating to blind persons who have an additional disability is likely to understate the true numbers, especially in respect of those aged under 16. This is partly because there is no advantage to the blind person in being registered as having additional disabilities. There may also be reluctance to register pre-school children as blind until they attain age five, which would affect the figures for this particular age group. 6. Statutory guidance under section 7 of the Local Authority Social Services Act 1970 was issued in 2001 to councils with social services responsibilities on deafblind registration in response to concerns highlighted by the Department of Health’s consultation exercise which looked at social care services for deafblind people. Where there was information on additional disabilities for people having multiple disabilities including deaf or hard of hearing, councils were advised to count these under the category of deaf or hard of hearing. This could lead to a bias towards deaf or hard of hearing disabilities. 7. For people to be registered as severely or partially sight impaired they must first undergo an examination by a consultant ophthalmologist. The consultant records his or her findings on the certificate of visual impairment (CVI) formerly the BD8, on which the consultant also certifies whether or not the person meets the statutory definition of blindness or the non-statutory definition of partial sight. 8. The statutory definition of blindness is that a person should be “so blind as to be unable to perform any work for which eyesight is essential”. The statutory definition of partial sight is that a person should be ″substantially and permanently disabled by defective vision caused by congenital defect, illness or injury”. 9. The definition for the groupings of additional disabilities is given as follows: People who are deaf without speech: Those who have no useful hearing and whose normal method of communication is by signs, finger spelling or writing. . People who are deaf with speech: Those who (even with a hearing aid) have little or no useful hearing but whose normal method of communication is by speech and lip-reading. Hard of hearing people: Those who (with or without a hearing aid) have some useful hearing and whose normal method of communication is by speech, listening and lip-reading. 10. While the Department of Health commissions the collecting of information from the Registers of Blind and Partially Sighted for both adults and children, overall responsibility for children’s social services lies with the Department for Education. 11. Prior to 2006 the additional disabilities categories of ‘People who are deaf with speech’ and ‘People who are deaf without speech’ were collected as one group: ‘People who are deaf’. Source: Register of blind and partially-sighted persons—SSDA 902 form.

Hinchingbrooke Hospital (6) whether any surpluses over £2 million generated during the running of Hinchingbrooke hospital by Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Circle Health will be shared; whether any sharing will Health (1) how (a) surplus, (b) capital expenditure take place on an annual or cumulative basis; and and (c) depreciation will be calculated at whether there will be a cap on total profits; [89549] Hinchingbrooke hospital under the terms of the (7) whether the NHS Trust for Hinchingbrooke contract with Circle Health; [89543] hospital during its operation by Circle Health will be (2) whether the contract with Circle Health to subject to the provisions of the (a) Freedom of manage Hinchingbrooke hospital includes any separate Information Act 2000, (b) Equalities Act 2010 and (c) provision for management, administration or running other statutory duties placed upon public bodies; costs other than tariff or contract income; [89544] [89550] (3) whether any (a) price adjustments and (b) (8) whether the Circle Health management board for guaranteed patient volumes have been agreed as part of Hinchingbrooke hospital will meet in public; [89551] the contract with Circle Health to run Hinchingbrooke (9) what contingency plans his Department has hospital; [89545] made in respect of the future financial viability of (4) what incentives are included in the contract with Circle Health to operate Hinchingbrooke hospital; Circle Health to run Hinchingbrooke hospital for [89598] collaboration with local commissioners and other local health and social care providers to provide integrated (10) whether his Department has requested a capital pathways of care; [89546] deposit from Circle Health in respect of the operation of Hinchingbrooke hospital; [89599] (5) what (a) legal and (b) contractual duties have been placed on Hinchingbrooke hospital for (11) whether Monitor has requested a capital deposit collaboration with the local health service during the from Circle Health in respect of its operation of terms of the contract with Circle Heath; [89547] Hinchingbrooke hospital; [89600] 771W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 772W

(12) what projections his Department has prepared discussing its commissioned activity as part of ongoing contract in respect of future throughput of patients at negotiations with the trust. There is no demand guarantee included Hinchingbrooke hospital; [89603] in these negotiations. There is no break clause in the contract with Circle Health to (13) whether there is a break clause in the contract operate Hinchingbrooke hospital. The trust may terminate the with Circle Health to operate Hinchingbrooke contract without cause giving 12 months written notice, and the hospital; and what the cost to (a) the NHS and (b) trust shall pay up to £10 million in compensation. The trust may Circle Health would be of ending the contract terminate the contract without compensation if there is, among mid-term; [89604] other things, a material breach of the contract that is incapable of remedy. Circle can terminate the contract without payment if, (14) what contingency plan he has put in place to among other things, the trust commits a material breach of the deal with a (a) financial and (b) clinical failure during contract. the operation of Hinchingbrooke hospital by Circle Circle cannot though terminate without trust fault or a breach Health; [89605] of the contract. Were it to cease to perform the contract Circle (15) what incentives are included in arrangements would be in breach and the NHS would seek damages. Such with Circle Health to operate Hinchingbrooke hospital damages have not been predetermined and would have regard to to minimise any loses over £5 million during the term the harm done to NHS interests. of the contract. [89606] The Department has not made a contingency plan to deal with a financial and clinical failure during the operation of Hinchingbrooke hospital by Circle Health. Circle Health has agreed to make Mr Simon Burns: The contract to manage working capital contributions of up to £5 million in aggregate, Hinchingbrooke hospital is between Hinchingbrooke should the hospital fall into deficit as part of the transformation. Health Care NHS Trust, Circle Hinchingbrooke Limited, The contract allows this figure to be renegotiated as part of the Circle Holdings plc and East of England Strategic annual budget process. Should the working capital amount be Health Authority (now part of NHS Midlands and exceeded, the contract allows either party to terminate. Extreme East). Based on advice from the NHS Midlands and clinical failure is a breach of contract, and therefore the agreement East, we can confirm the following: would be terminated. No specific incentives are included in arrangements with Circle Surplus, capital expenditure and depreciation will be calculated Health to minimise any losses over £5 million during the term of at Hinchingbrooke hospital as they are currently, that is, through the contract. It is in Circle Health’s interest to minimise losses, as normal accounting practice. The trust will continue to operate as their success depends upon surpluses being generated. a national health service body. The franchise agreement with Circle Health to manage Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Hinchingbrooke hospital allows Circle Health to receive a share of the operating surplus generated by the trust. A surplus would Health whether the NHS Trust for Hinchingbrooke also be used to repay historic debt. The operating costs of the Hospital plans to pursue its application for Foundation trust are not part of the franchise agreement. Trust status; what the timetable is for any conversion to Price adjustments and guaranteed patient volumes are not part Foundation Trust status; whether there will be any of the contract with Circle Health to run Hinchingbrooke hospital. differences in the process followed; and what The trust will be paid at tariff, as for all NHS district general consultation he has had with Monitor on this issue. hospitals. The patient volumes relate to existing contractual [89553] arrangements between NHS Cambridgeshire and the trust. It is for local commissioners to work with local health and Mr Simon Burns: Hinchingbrooke Hospital NHS social care providers to design integrated services, and the franchise Trust is expected to become, or become part of, a with Circle Health will support services to be delivered from national health service foundation trust. There is currently Hinchingbrooke hospital in this way. no agreed timetable for this, which will be determined The trust continues to operate under their existing legal and ahead of the end of the franchise contract when it is contractual duties, which will include collaborations with the anticipated the trust will be ready to move forward to local health services. Circle Health, as the franchisee, will be part of this collaboration. foundation trust status. Surpluses over £2 million will be shared between Circle Health All future applicants for foundation trust status will and the trust. Sharing will take place on an annual basis, subject follow the current process to apply to Monitor. There to audited accounts. There is no cap on total profit. will be no lowering of the standards required to achieve The trust remains responsible for governance of the hospital, foundation trust status. Through regular meetings with and is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Monitor, (the statutory name of which is the Independent Act 2000, the Equalities Act 2010 and other statutory duties Regulator of NHS Foundation Trusts), the Department placed upon public bodies. is assured that Monitor is aware of the trust’s current The Trust board will continue to meet in public. Circle Health’s position. executive team will attend these meetings as required. The Department has made no contingency plans in respect of Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for the future financial viability of Circle Health to operate Health whether Circle Health will be liable for UK Hinchingbrooke hospital. Circle Health is an Alternative Investment taxation in respect of any profits resulting from its Market listed company and provision is included within the operation of Hinchingbrooke Hospital. [89601] franchise agreement for an annual review of its financial liability. Neither the Department nor Monitor requested a capital deposit Mr Gauke: I have been asked to reply on behalf of from Circle Health in respect of the operation of Hinchingbrooke the Treasury. hospital. As part of the contract, Circle Health will provide working capital contributions of up to £5 million in aggregate, if UK resident companies are chargeable to corporation required. tax on their taxable profits arising in the UK. I am The Department has not prepared projections in respect of unable to comment on the affairs of specific taxpayers future throughput of patients at Hinchingbrooke hospital. As as this information is held by Her Majesty’s Revenue part of the normal planning process, NHS Cambridgeshire is and Customs on a confidential basis. 773W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 774W

Hospitals: Infectious Diseases Mr Simon Burns: These data are not centrally collected. The closest available data indicates from where a patient Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State has been referred to accident and emergency (A&E), for Health (1) what plans his Department has to review but not where the injury occurred. These data are only guidance issued to NHS Acute Trusts and Foundation available from 2007-08 to present. The data are as Trusts on screening programmes for hospital acquired follows: infections; and what his policy is on the governance of Table 1: England total A&E attendances and total referrals from work any such reviews; [89352] England—total England— Referral of work as (2) whether his Department plans to consult on A&E referral from a percentage of attendances work total attendances guidelines issued to NHS Acute Trusts and Foundation Trusts on screening programmes for hospital acquired 2007-08 12,318,051 98,026 0.80 infections. [89353] 2008-09 13,794,072 99,746 0.72 2009-10 15,569,736 98,899 0.64 Mr Simon Burns: National health service trusts and 2010-11 16,241,015 98,076 0.60 foundation trusts are required to screen all relevant 2011-121 7,213,285 37,419 0.52 admissions for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The policy recognises that there are some areas of Data is not available for Colchester General Hospital clinical care where it is not appropriate or cost effective in isolation, but is available for Colchester Hospital to screen. The Department’s guidance therefore asked University NHS Foundation Trust: NHS organisations to develop local clinical protocols, Table 2: Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust total A&E based on learning from within their own area, that attendances and total referrals from work provide for clinical and cost effective screening practices. Colchester— Colchester— Referral of work as total A&E referral from a percentage of The Department has commissioned an independent attendances work total attendances review of the local implementation (clinical and cost- effectiveness, and impact on patient management) of 2007-08 89,079 208 0.23 the current guidance. This audit is being undertaken by 2008-09 93,908 135 0.14 University college London and the Health Protection 2009-10 71,978 55 0.08 Agency. As part of this process, all infection control 2010-11 72,330 44 0.06 1 teams in NHS acute trusts in England were invited to 2011-12 31,416 11 0.04 1 2011-12 data is to date (April to August). submit data as part in a National One Week prevalence Note: audit between 9 and 15 May 2011. Data is four months in arrears The final report on the audit will be submitted to the Medical Treatments Department’s expert advisory committee on Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infections (ARHAI) Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for in the spring to consider the findings, along with other Health how many applications were made by clinicians available evidence. ARHAI will then advise the Department to North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust’s if the existing departmental guidance needs to be updated. (PCT) Exceptions Panel for treatment or drugs which Hospitals: Management are not normally commissioned or paid for by the PCT in the last year for which figures are available; and how many of those applications were (a) accepted without Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for qualification, (b) accepted in part or with qualification Health what assessment has he made of the prospects and (c) rejected. [89444] for future franchises of hospital management services. [89540] Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is not centrally held. The Department does not collect information Mr Simon Burns: As part of the commitment for all on individual funding requests made to primary care the remaining national health service trusts to achieve trusts (PCTs). The hon. Member may wish to write to foundation trust status, tripartite formal agreements North Yorkshire and York PCT, which may hold some have been established that set out each organisations relevant information. plan to deliver this requirement. For a number of NHS trusts the agreement confirms that the organisation has NHS determined they are not viable in their current organisational form and sets out the actions they need to take to Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Health establish sustainable provision of high quality healthcare what the relationship is between his Department and services in some other organisational form. Within these NHS Shared Business Services. [89911] agreements no NHS trusts currently have plans to use the franchising of management to support the achievement Mr Simon Burns: The Department owns 50% of of foundation trust status. NHS Shared Business Services, with a senior departmental official on the board of directors. Industrial Accidents NHS: Negligence Sir Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many people were treated in accident and Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for emergency departments for injuries sustained in the Health how many clinical negligence proceedings have workplace in each of the last five years; and how many been brought against the NHS in the last 12 months; were treated at Colchester General Hospital for such and to which types of adverse incident each relate. injuries. [89288] [89720] 775W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 776W

Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is in the Number of clinical negligence claims where proceedings were issued during 2011 following table: Claim notified to NHS litigation authority Number of clinical negligence claims where proceedings were issued during 2011 Injury Before 2011 During 2011 Total Claim notified to NHS litigation authority Lung disease 1 1 2 Injury Before 2011 During 2011 Total Malignant tumour 2 3 5 Malnutrition 0 1 1 Addiction/dependency 0 1 1 Meningitis 3 2 5 Additional/unnecessary 159 159 318 operation(s) Multiple disabilities 5 2 7 Advanced stage cancer 16 19 35 Multiple injuries 3 1 4 Amputation—lower 38 29 67 Nerve damage 54 61 115 Amputation—upper 6 3 9 Not specified 1 5 6 Anal fissure 1 3 4 Osteoporosis 2 0 2 Anaphylactic shock/ 325Other 10 12 22 allergic shock/allergy Other infection 10 7 17 Aneurysm 0 2 2 Other visual problems 21 24 45 Arterial damage 2 0 2 Paraplegia 12 1 13 Benign tumour 0 2 2 Partial hearing loss 3 3 6 Bile duct damage 6 5 11 Partial paralysis 3 2 5 Bladder damage 14 16 30 Perforation 8 7 15 Blindness 20 10 30 Peritonitis 2 10 12 Bodily harm/murder 0 1 1 Poor outcome— 73 44 117 Bowel damage/ 31 27 58 fractures etc. dysfunction Pressure sores 19 15 34 Brain damage 80 33 113 Psychiatric/ 42 58 100 Bruising/extravasation 2 3 5 psychological damage Burn(s) 5 5 10 Radiation exposure 0 1 1 Cancer 14 23 37 Reduced life expectancy 1 0 1 Cardiac arrest 4 5 9 Removal of fallopian 033 tube Cardiovascular 437 condition Removal of testicle 5 1 6 Cerebral palsy 73 8 81 Renal damage/failure 6 3 9 Chronic fatigue 101Respiratory disorder/ 336 syndrome failure Compartment 7310Rupture 3 3 6 syndrome Scarring 11 12 23 Cosmetic disfigurement 5 7 12 Spinal damage 5 9 14 Cystic growth 0 1 1 Stillborn 14 7 21 Deafness 1 5 6 Stroke 8 8 16 Decompression illness 0 1 1 Tendon damage 12 6 18 Dental damage 5 6 11 Tetraplegia/ 213 Developmental delay 5 0 5 quadriplegia Dislocation 5 5 10 Thrombosis/embolism 7 5 12 Down’s syndrome 1 0 1 Thyroid condition 0 1 1 Epilepsy 2 5 7 Tissue damage 4 6 10 Erb’s palsy 20 0 20 Tuberculosis 0 1 1 Failed sterilization 1 0 1 Unknown 0 10 10 Unnecessary pain 128 174 302 Fatality 121 155 276 Unwanted pregnancy 4 3 7 Fistula 4 6 10 Wrongful birth 6 6 12 Foot drop 8 5 13 Total 1,250 1,195 2,445 Fracture 43 40 83 Source: HIV 1 1 2 NHS Litigation Authority. Hernia 1 4 5 Hospital acquired 31720 NHS: Redundancy Pay infection Impotence 2 2 4 Incontinence 7 4 11 Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Infectious diseases 4 2 6 what his policy is on gagging clauses imposed on NHS Infertility 2 6 8 employees as part of severance agreements; and if he Joint damage 20 30 50 will make a statement. [89856] Limb deformity 3 1 4 Liver damage 1 1 2 Mr Simon Burns: The Department does not routinely Liver transplant 0 1 1 monitor the use of confidentiality clauses in compromise Loss of baby 3 4 7 agreements. The Department’s guidance, contained Loss of kidney 2 1 3 within the health circulars HSC 2004/001 for national Loss of sexual function 1 0 1 health service managers and HSC 1999/198 for all Loss of/damage to 011employees does not prevent the use of confidentiality breast clauses per se. 777W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 778W

However, the guidance does state that NHS employers tasked with ensuring the best nursing practice, including must consider with their legal advisers whether such a hourly nursing rounds, is spread throughout the national clause is necessary in the circumstances of each case health service and social care. and that if such a clause is included within a particular Rolling out the NHS Institute for Innovation and agreement that it complies with their various statutory Improvement’s Productive Series ’Releasing Time to obligations regarding the treatment of confidential Care’ initiative will help free nurses from non-essential information, including the Public Interest Disclosure paperwork and excessive bureaucracy, that add little or Act 1998. Sir David Nicholson the NHS Chief Executive, no value to patient care, enabling them to spend more wrote on 11 January 2012 to NHS chief executives and time with their patients. This has already helped staff in HR managers reminding them of their obligations under more than half of acute trusts to spend extra time with HSC 1999/198. patients. A ″red-tape challenge″ will be introduced to Before an employee considers signing a compromise identify barriers to preventing nurses from doing their agreement, which may or may not contain a confidentiality job properly and remove them. clause, the employer is required to pay for the employee Plastic Surgery to have independent legal advice on the terms of the agreement. Mr MacShane: To ask the Secretary of State for NHS: Reorganisation Health what powers he has to compel private clinics to contact women patients concerned about implants Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for manufactured by Poly Implant Prothese to offer them Health whether he plans to place a cap on the liabilities screening and advice free of charge. [89282] of all private health providers under his proposals for the future of the NHS. [89542] Mr Simon Burns: We expect all providers of health care to comply with their ethical and legal obligations Mr Simon Burns: We have no plans for such a cap. towards the patients in their charge, including offering The Government’s aim is for equivalent safeguards to advice in the event of actual or potential adverse reactions be in place for patients irrespective of who provides to treatment. In addition, all doctors working for such their NHS services. The national health service standard clinics have specific ethical duties under the General contract would require all providers of NHS services to Medical Council’s ethical code “Good medical practice”. provide equivalent indemnities in relation to clinical negligence and other potential losses. Mr MacShane: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the number of The Department will therefore be asking the NHS women who have had breast implants manufactured by Litigation Authority for advice on options for modifying Poly Implant Prothese implanted in (a) NHS or (b) the existing Clinical Negligence Scheme for trusts to private hospitals. [89283] enable all providers of NHS services to be members. NHS: Standards Mr Simon Burns: Based on the information so far available to the Department, our best estimate is that 40,000 women in the United Kingdom received Poly Andrew Selous: To ask the Secretary of State for Implant Prothese silicone breast implants, of whom no Health what his policy is on how quickly a bed bound more than 3,000 were treated in the national health hospital patient should receive assistance to clear up a service. We are seeking more robust information from burst stoma bag that could infect a wound from a NHS hospitals and private clinics and will update these recent operation. [90442] estimates if necessary. Anne Milton: All care staff should ensure that the Suicide comfort, dignity and safety of their patients is maintained at all times. Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment his Department has made of the Nurses merits of (a) applied suicide intervention skills training and (b) trauma risk management; and if he Andrew George: To ask the Secretary of State for will make a statement. [89377] Health (1) how many patients a nurse on an adult acute (a) medical and (b) surgical hospital ward should be Anne Milton: The Department has made no such responsible for checking each hour; [89998] assessment; the content and standard of health care (2) what assessment he has made of which (a) training is the responsibility of the independent regulatory administration procedures, (b) targets and (c) form bodies for the health care professions. filling should be discontinued from the duties of an Through their role as the custodians of quality standards acute hospital nurse; [89999] in education and practice, the profession regulators are (3) what his policy is on the nurse to patient ratio on committed to ensuring high quality patient care delivered acute adult hospital wards. [90000] by high quality health professionals and that health care professionals are equipped with the knowledge, Anne Milton: Encouraging nurses to carry out hourly skills and behaviours required to deal with the problems ward rounds is about showing staff what is already and conditions they will encounter in practice. working in some places and what the rest can do to The Secretary of State for Health, my right hon. achieve the level of the best. The newly established Friend the Member for South Cambridgeshire independent Nursing and Care Quality Forum will be (Mr Lansley), has not made any formal assessment of 779W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 780W

Trauma Risk Management (TRiM). The TRiM concept Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for is that of a peer-developed support programme for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has personnel who have experienced a traumatic event. It made of the adequacy of (a) self-regulation on beer does not in itself constitute a treatment for post-traumatic ties and (b) competition in the pub and hospitality stress disorder or any other mental health problem. industry. [90203] Instead, it is used to identify the signs and symptoms of stress at an early stage. The ultimate aim is to detect that Mr Davey: The Office of Fair Trading’s (OFT) final small percentage of personnel who require additional decision on CAMRA’s super-complaint, published in help and advise them of where they can get the help October 2010, found no evidence of competition problems they need. that are having a significant adverse impact on consumers TRiM is widely used by the Ministry of Defence to in the pub industry. help identify stress-related issues which personnel may The Government consider that the previous system have encountered while on operations. It is also now of self-regulation in the pub industry was inadequate. widely implemented across other public and private That is why they have introduced a tough new self-regulatory sector employers whose personnel may encounter traumatic system, including strengthening the Industry Framework situations at work. Code, making it legally binding and establishing an independent conciliation and arbitration service to resolve disputes between pubcos and licensees.

BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has Apprentices: Ashfield made of the effects of beer ties on competition in the hospitality industry. [90204] Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many companies Mr Davey: The Office of Fair Trading’s (OFT) final in Ashfield constituency will receive additional decision on CAMRA’s super-complaint, published in incentive payments to take on 18 to 24 year olds in October 2010, found no evidence of competition problems apprenticeships. [89472] that are having a significant adverse impact on consumers in the pub industry. Mr Hayes [holding answer 16 January 2012]: The Apprenticeship programme is demand led and take-up Biofuels: Research of apprenticeships by area depends on employer demand. We are therefore unable to provide estimates of the Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for geographical distribution of those companies which Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is taking will benefit from the incentive payments which the to support research and development in the biogas Government announced in November. sector. [86193] Nationally we plan to make 40,000 incentive payments available for small companies who are not currently Mr Paice: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the engaged in the Apprenticeships programme who take Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. on their first apprentices aged 16-24. The National The Government support a range of research and Apprenticeship Service is currently working up a detailed development relevant to biogas, and publish this through delivery plan and companies will be able to benefit by the Biogas portal website: April this year. http://www.biogas-info.co.uk/index.php/find-ad-reports.html Beer: Competition In April 2011, DEFRA published an assessment of research on anaerobic digestion (AD) and the evidence gaps that remain: Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what timetable he has http://archive.defra.gov.uk/environment/waste/documents/ wr1311-ad-gapanalysis.pdf set for the introduction of measures to improve competition in the pub and hospitality industry. [90201] In addition, DEFRA’s AD strategy and action plan sets out how the Government and industry are working Mr Davey: The Government have not introduced any together to address these gaps and other barriers to measures to improve competition in the pub and hospitality increasing production of biogas from waste. In particular, industry. The Office of Fair Trading’s (OFT) final decision DEFRA has launched an Innovation Fund to optimise on CAMRA’s super-complaint, published in October anaerobic digestion plants and reduce the costs and 2010, found no evidence of competition problems that complexity of small scale AD plants. are having a significant adverse impact on consumers in the pub industry. Breathalysers The timetable for the introduction of the Government’s reforms to improve transparency, fairness and dispute Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for resolution for licensees is set out in the Government’s Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is taking response to the Business, Innovation and Skills Select to encourage Germany to adopt specifications agreed Committee’s report on Pub Companies. by the Organisation of Legal Metrology on breath http://www.official-documents.gov.uk/document/cm82/8222/ alcohol analysis equipment, including a breath 8222.pdf temperature correction feature. [87437] 781W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 782W

Mr Willetts: I have not taken any steps to encourage Mr Prisk: I have noted the findings set out in the Germany to adopt specifications agreed by the International British Chambers of Commerce report and welcome Organisation of Legal Metrology in relation to breath their support for the changes that the Government have alcohol analysis equipment. Although the Department, already introduced to strengthen the system for regulatory through the National Measurement Office, is responsible scrutiny and accountability across Departments. The for dealings with the International Organisation of Legal report highlights a number of areas where Departments Metrology, Government policy on breath alcohol analysers can take further action to improve the transparency of is the responsibility of the Home Office and they have their current activities, including the timely and consistent not asked either for advice or for any representations to publication of impact assessments, which we will continue be made on this matter. to address over the coming months.

Business: Government Assistance Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he plans John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for to take to ensure that his Department’s proposals for Business, Innovation and Skills what the total support the deregulation of businesses are informed by the for industry by his Department was in each views of the business community. [89900] parliamentary constituency in 2011. [88820] Mr Prisk: The Government Red Tape Challenge Mr Prisk: The Department does not hold these data website gives businesses, voluntary organisations and in the format requested. members of the public the opportunity to comment on However, each year the HM Treasury carries out an all regulations which affect them. These comments directly annual exercise (country and regional analysis) to collate inform its decisions as to which regulations will be country and regional spending information by Government removed or improved. Departments, devolved Administrations, local authorities In its plans on Transforming Regulatory Enforcement and by public corporations using a combination of the Government has also committed to examine the actual regional spending and statistical methodologies. performance of every regulator including using a web-based These data include details of expenditure on enterprise tool to enable businesses and individuals to provide a and economic development broken down to each of the challenge function and real time feedback on their nine English regions as well as Scotland, Wales and experience of regulators. Northern Ireland and overseas. The most recent country and regional analysis covers the 2010/11 financial year In addition, Departments regularly conduct thematic and is available at: reviews of regulation, such as the recent review of http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/pespb_natstats_oct2011.htm health and safety, which include thorough consultation with business and other interested parties. Business: Regulation Charities: West Midlands Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State taking to increase awareness of the regulatory process for Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate he for businesses among (a) businesses and (b) the has made of the number of (a) paid jobs and (b) general public. [89898] volunteering opportunities in charity shops in the West Midlands. [89297] Mr Prisk: The Government Statement of Regulation provides an overview to business and the public of the Mr Davey: No information about the number of paid net costs and benefits to business and an update on the jobs or volunteering opportunities in charity shops is Government’s regulatory ‘One-in, One-out’ policy in held centrally. action. The second statement can be found at: http://www.bis.gov.uk/policies/bre/better-regulation-framework/ Debt Collection one-in-one-out/statement More widely, through the Red Tape Challenge, the Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Government invite the public and business to give their Business, Innovation and Skills how many times his views, comments and ideas on what regulations should Department has used the services of debt recovery stay, be improved, or be scrapped. The Red Tape Challenge companies since May 2010; which companies were website can be accessed at: used; and if he will make a statement. [88364] http://www.redtapechallenge.cabinetoffice.gov.uk Mr Davey: The core Department has not used the In addition, the Government have simplified the services of debt recovery companies since May 2010. regulatory guidance that they provide through: http://www.businesslink.gov.uk Departmental Pay and this supports the citizen-facing material which is provided through: Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.direct.gov.uk Business, Innovation and Skills how much was paid to officials in his Department and its non-departmental Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State public bodies in (a) bonuses, (b) allowances and (c) for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he other payments additional to basic salary in each of the has made of the findings of the British Chamber of last two years for which figures are available; what Commerce’s report entitled Red Tape Challenged. categories of payment may be made to officials in [89899] addition to basic salary; what the monetary value is of 783W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 784W each category of payment; and what the monetary £ value was of the 20 largest such payments made in each of the last two years. [89678] Performance related Financial year payments (inc SCS) Allowances Mr Davey: BIS was formed through a Machinery of Government change that occurred in June 2009. The 2009-10 2,734,780 — Department was created by merging The Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) 2010-11 1,540,957 2,941,096 and The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS). BIS operates the following working pattern allowances:- Based on information available, the following table also provides details for both the former departments Overtime, travelling time, meal allowance, night duty that were merged to create BIS. To provide details of allowance and night duty officer’s allowance, off shore other additional payments and allowances for 2009-10 allowance, on call allowance, standby allowance, weekend and the 20 largest payments would involve checking duty senior press officers allowance, overseas allowances, various data sources and would entail disproportionate emergency preparedness volunteers and the following costs. pay arrangements for specialists.

Former BERR Specialist area Specialism Grade London (£) National (£)

Accountant Qualified EO 6,067 4,106 HEO 6,829 4,448 SEO 8,882 4,626 Part qualified 1st stage EO to SEO 1,255 784 Part qualified 2nd stage EO to SEO 2,508 1,564 Aerospace P&T Grade 7 3,543 — Economist Entry level FS 4,009 4,009 Experienced staff FS 7,581 7,581 Entry level + MSc FS 6,985 6,985 Experienced + MSc FS 10,555 10,555 Grade 7 3,577 3,577 Grade 6 2,921 2,921 Electrical engineering inspector Senior Grade 7 12,748 — Electronics P&T EO 7,543 — HEO 6,863 — SEO 8,083 — Electronics engineer (electronics) HEO 11,503 — SEO 13,715 — Grade 7 5,899 — Grade 6 3,680 — Electronic engineering P&T SEO 8,083 — Science SEO 6,345 — Electronic scientific Science SEO 6,345 — Engineering professional, technical and construction P&T HEO 6,863 — Government social research (GSR) HEO 6,299 4,984 SEO 7,445 6,153 Grade 7 to grade 6 2,452 — HR business partner Grade 6 4,122 — Information EO 5,041 4,984 HEO 5,041 3,953 SEO 5,041 6,153 Grade 7 to Grade 6 5,041 — Internal audit PIIA EO to SEO 2,541 — GIAS EO to SEO 5,030 — MIIA EO to SEO 6,496 — GIAS + IT EO to SEO 7,213 — MIIA + IT EO to SEO 8,899 — MIIA Grade 7 to Grade 6 2,571 — Investigation officers HEO to SEO 2,007 2,007 785W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 786W

Former BERR Specialist area Specialism Grade London (£) National (£)

IT Intelligent customer function EO to Grade 6 6,344 6,344 Procurement level 1 EO to Grade 6 8,062 8,062 Procurement level 2 EO to Grade 6 10,925 10,925 Lawyers SEO to Grade 6 2,338 2,338 Librarianship EO to Grade 6 6,344 6,344 Mapping and charting EO 5,149 4,986 HEO 4,065 3,893 MENTOR advanced user AA to HEO 1,082 542 Operational research (OR) Without MSc EO-HEO 4,065 — With MSc EO-HEO 7,041 — SEO-Grade 6 8,270 — Procurement Level 1 AA to G6 1,721 1,721 Level 2 AA to G6 4,583 4,583 Professional and technical AO 7,687 7,866 EO 5,149 4,984 HEO 4,065 3,953 SEO 4,675 6,153 Scientific EO 5,149 4,984 HEO 4,065 3,953 SEO 4,675 6,153 Statistician Entry level FS 4,009 £4,009 Statistician Experienced staff FS 7,581 £7,581 Entry level + MSc FS 6,985 £6,985 Experienced + MSc FS 10,555 10,555 Entry level EO to SEO 5,727 5,727 Entry level + MSc EO to SEO 8,702 8,702 Grade 7 to grade 6 2,452 2,452 Technical assessor (Senior) Grade 6 3,807 — Telecoms P&T SEO 8,083 — Science SEO 6,345 — Senior telecoms engineer SEO 13,715 — Typing/Secretarial AA 1,748 1,748 AO 1,346 1,301 Former SPS AA to AO 712 712

Former DIUS Specialist Pay Scales Specialist area Grade London National

Staff on former DIUS terms and conditions have Research social EO-G6 £2,451 to £2,451 to specialist pay rates rather than a separate allowance. £6,299 £6,299 The following table shows how much their specialist pay Science EO - SEO £4,065 to 2£6,152 rates differ from generalist pay rates on the basis of £5,148 their specialism and qualification level. Statistician EO-G6 £2,451 to £2,451 to £5,726 £5,726 1 All posts are in London. Specialist area Grade London National 2 No EO/HEO posts outside London. Accountancy EO-SEO £1,255 to £783 to £4,625 Travel and subsistence payments are also available. £8,881 To provide further breakdown would incur Economist G6-G7 £2,920 to £2,920 to £3,576 £3,576 disproportionate costs as would obtaining the information Information EO-G6 £5,040 £5,040 for BIS’s non-departmental public bodies. Details of IT—Intelligent HEO - G7 £6,342 —1 BIS partner organisations can be found at: customer function www.bis.gov.uk/partners/by/atoz Procurement HEO-G6 £1,720 —1 Professional and EO - SEO £4,065 to —1 technical £5,148 Employment Tribunals Service Professional and EO - SEO £6,863 to £5,726 technical £8,082 economics Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for Research EO-G6 £4,065 to £2,451 to Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the written operational £8,269 £8,269 statement of 23 November 2011, Official Report, 787W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 788W columns 26-8W, on employment law review, when he Mr Prisk: The latest figures produced by the Office expects reform of the employment tribunal system to for National Statistics show that UK exports of goods be completed. [89231] to countries outside the EU totalled £12.2 billion in November 2011. This was £0.4 billion down on October Mr Davey: We are working to reform the employment 2011 which was a record month since the series began in tribunal system as soon as possible during this Parliament. 1998. The fall in exports was driven by a fall in the The measures announced on 23 November requiring export of silver to non-EU countries, including India, secondary legislation (witness statements being taken as down £0.3 billion. Exports of intermediate goods and read, the removal of witness expenses, judges sitting consumer goods other than cars, were each down alone in unfair dismissal cases and changes to limits for £0.2 billion. These falls were offset by higher exports of cost awards and deposit orders) will come into force on oil and cars, both up £0.1 billion. 6 April 2012, subject to parliamentary approval. Measures Since monthly trade data is volatile, the ONS advise requiring primary legislation, including early conciliation, that quarterly data should be used for analysis and financial penalties, judges sitting alone in the Employment assessment of trends. Data for the three months ending Appeal Tribunal and the formula for uprating tribunal November 2012 showed that non-EU exports totalled awards and redundancy payments will be implemented £36.1 billion, a record for any three-month period since when parliamentary time allows. the series began in 1998. This was an increase of £1.9 billion The Fundamental Review of the Employment Tribunal (5.7%) on the previous three months, and an increase of Rules of Procedure is expected to recommend a revised £3.8 billion (11.8%) on the three months ending November procedural code for employment tribunals that would 2010. come into force in 2013, following public consultation and subject to parliamentary approval. Further Education: Higher Education EU External Trade: India Mr Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what proportion of students in John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for each age group were studying a higher education Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has qualification in a further education college funded (a) made of the effect on the livelihoods of the rural poor directly by the Higher Education Funding Council for in India of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement; and England, (b) via a university and (c) via the Skills what representations he has received from non- Funding Agency in each of the last three years for governmental organisations on the agreement. [89573] which figures are available. [88304] Mr Davey: The European Union’s sustainability impact assessment (SIA): Mr Willetts: The answer to the question is shown in the following tables. These are the official figures provided http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/docs/2009/june/ tradoc_143372.pdf by each funding body and are not comparable due to differing methodologies. concluded that the EU-India Free Trade Agreement would lead to an overall reduction in both rural and Figures from the Higher Education Funding Council urban poverty, and that an ambitious agreement would for England (HEFCE) are shown on a full person deliver the greatest benefits. A wide range of civil society equivalent basis and the age group refers to the age organisations, including non-governmental organisations reported at the start of the course while figures from the (NGOs), were consulted in the preparation of the SIA, Skills Funding Agency (SFA) are shown on a learner and BIS officials regularly discuss our approach to basis and the age group refers to the age reported at the trade negotiations with NGOs. start of the academic year. As the figures are not comparable, figures on the proportion of students funded EU Law by each category are not shown. Table 1 shows the numbers of students studying for a John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for higher education qualification in a further education Business, Innovation and Skills how many of the college that are (i) HEFCE funded, (ii) indirectly funded regulations his Department brought into force through by HEFCE (via a university), (iii) by another funding (a) primary legislation, (b) secondary legislation and stream (for prescribed higher education courses) and (c) other means originated from proposals by the (iv) by another funding stream (for franchised higher European Commission in (i) 2010 and (ii) 2011. [88960] education courses). Detail on prescribed courses of higher education (HE) can be found on the HEFCE Mr Davey: The information requested is not held website: centrally and is currently being researched. I will write http://www.hefce.ac.uk/pubs/circlets/2008/cl22_08/ to the hon. Member as soon the information is available Table 1: Learner participation (full person equivalent) in further education and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Libraries of colleges for higher education courses funded by HEFCE and other funding the House. streams, 2007/08 to 2009/10 (i) HEFCE funded Foreign Trade Age at start of course 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Under 21 17,800 18,700 20,800 Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has 21 to 24 9,200 9,600 10,600 made of the export figures for countries outside the EU 25+ 21,300 22,400 23,000 in the balance of trade figures published on 11 January Total 48,300 50,700 54,400 2012; and if he will make a statement. [90287] 789W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 790W

Higher Education: North East (ii) HEFCE indirectly funded

Age at start of course 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many UCAS Under 21 17,600 18,000 20,700 applications had been submitted by residents of (a) Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland 21 to 24 7,800 8,200 8,900 constituency, (b) the borough of Middlesbrough, (c) 25+ 28,200 28,600 29,000 the borough of Redcar and Cleveland, (d) the Tees Valley and (e) the north-east in the 2011-12 Total 53,600 54,800 58,600 admissions cycle by 19 December 2011; and how many such applications had been submitted on the same date (iii) Other funding stream (prescribed HE) in the 2010-11 admissions cycle. [89167] Age at start of course 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 Mr Willetts: The latest information is in the following Under 21 1,800 1,700 1,900 tables and has been provided by the Universities and 21 to 24 1,500 1,700 1,800 Colleges Admission Service (UCAS). 25+ 4,000 4,200 4,700 Total 7,300 7,600 8,400 UCAS have stated that year-on-year changes for all courses at this early stage in the cycle are often different (iv) Other funding stream (franchised HE) from the position later in the cycle, and that it is too Age at start of early in the cycle to extrapolate applicant volumes forward. course 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 The second table includes only those applicants who applied to courses with a deadline of 15 October. The Under 21 1,500 1,600 1,100 main deadline for the majority of UCAS courses is 21 to 24 1,000 1,300 1,100 15 January. 25+ 2,800 4,500 3,700 Total 5,300 7,400 5,900 All applicants to UCAS as at 19 December by parliamentary constituency/region Notes: Application cycle 1. Students are counted if they are included in the standard registration Area of domicile 2010-111 2011-122 population. 2. A student, studying at the same level, mode, subject and institution will be Middlesbrough South and East 444 403 counted only once. Cleveland constituency 3. De-duplicating between the ILR and HESA record has been carried out. The borough of Middlesbrough 332 300 4. Age groups refer to the age reported at the start of the course. 5. Some records have been removed from the ILR as they were returned The borough of Redcar and 392 345 incorrectly. Cleveland Source: The Tees Valley 3,205 2,772 Individualised Learner Record (ILR) Data for HEFCE funded and HESA data The north-east 11,284 10,103 record for HEFCE indirectly funded. 1 Applicants applying to enter courses starting in autumn 2011, including those who applied for deferred entry in 2012. Information on the number of students studying 2 Applicants applying to enter courses starting in autumn 2012, including higher education courses in further education and funded those who applied for deferred entry in 2013. via the Skills Funding Agency is shown in Table 2. On time applicants to courses with a 15 October deadline1 by parliamentary constituency/region Table 2: Learner participation in further education on level 4 and above courses Application cycle funded by the Skills Funding Agency or Young People’s Learning Agency Area of domicile 2010-112 2011-123 Age at start of academic year 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 Middlesbrough South and East 35 33 Cleveland constituency Under 21 4,000 4,300 4,200 The borough of Middlesbrough 23 18 21 to 24 6,400 6,300 5,600 The borough of Redcar and 21 23 25+ 43,900 48,700 40,800 Cleveland Unknown 1— 1— 1— The Tees Valley4 240 217 Total 54,400 59,400 50,700 The north-east 1,131 1,073 1 Indicates a base value of less than 50. 1 These are courses in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science, and courses Notes: at Oxbridge. 1. Figures include learners in further education on level 4 or above courses that 2 Applicants applying to enter courses starting in autumn 2011, including were funded by the Learning and Skills Council and/or are now funded by the those who applied for deferred entry in 2012. Skills Funding Agency or Young People’s Learning Agency. 3 Applicants applying to enter courses starting in autumn 2012, including 2. Age groups refer to the age reported as at 31 August of the academic year, i.e. those who applied for deferred entry in 2013. academic age. 4 Revised figures. These correct the figures provided in PQ 84160 (254 for 3. Figures have been rounded up or down to the nearest hundred, so components 2010-11 and 227 for 2011-12). The figures for the Tees Valley include the may not sum to totals. constituencies of Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar, Stockton North, 4. Figures do not include any learners returned in ILR collections for higher Stockton South, Darlington, and Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland. education institutions. Source: Individualised Learner Record (ILR) Data. Land Registry Information on the number of learners participating in further education is published in a quarterly Statistical First Release (SFR). The latest SFR was published on Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for 27 October 2011: Business, Innovation and Skills what plans he has to improve access to the records of land ownership held http://www.thedataservice.org.uk/statistics/ by the Land Registry; and if he will make a statement. statisticalfirstrelease/sfr_current [89566] 791W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 792W

Mr Davey: The Land Register is open to public made of the total amount of land in England which is inspection to assist the buying and selling of property unregistered (a) in hectares and (b) as a proportion of and land, as well as to provide publicly available information the total land mass; and if he will make a statement. about property and land. We have had an open register [89568] since 1990. The information is made available online to both Mr Davey: The total amount of land in England that citizens and professionals by means of two separate is unregistered is 2,711,622 hectares. The total percentage web-based services. This allows anyone upon payment of unregistered land in England is 20.4%. of a small fee to access Land Registry’s records. These services are very popular with property professionals New Businesses and the public alike. Our online service for the general public was launched in January 2005. It helped Land Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Registry to meet Government targets of making all Business, Innovation and Skills if he will consider the publicly available information accessible electronically use of the New York City Economic Development and proved very successful, amply demonstrated by the Corporation’s Sunshine Bronx Business Incubator as a fact that today ‘Find a Property’ receives up to 20,000 model in the UK to encourage entrepreneurialism and downloads a week. business start-ups with high potential for growth. However, we are aware of the fact that this means of [89890] easy access has the potential to facilitate fraud. We take the issue of fraud very seriously and work closely with Mr Prisk [holding answer 16 January 2012]: There stakeholders including the Law Society, Solicitors are many positive examples of good practice abroad of Regulation Authority, Council of Licensed Conveyancers, which the Bronx Business Incubator centre is one. The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, National Fraud work of incubators is important and in this context it is Authority and Financial Services Authority as well as worth mentioning the Business Coaching for Growth land registries in other countries to do all we can to (BCG) initiative which is due to go live at the end of reduce the opportunities for fraud and identify when it January 2012. has happened. The programme, which will be delivered by the private This means that we do insist upon registration sector, will help up to 10,000 small and medium-sized requirements in order to use these web-based services, enterprises (SMEs) a year to overcome the barriers to and Land Registry has no plans to reduce or remove high growth. It will provide coaches to work face to face these requirements. with senior management teams to help them to develop Land Registry is always looking for ways to maximise and implement their strategies and develop the skills, the publication of the data it holds. As the Government expertise and techniques to overcome the barriers they have already announced, Land Registry together with face to growing. BCG will be highly networked and will Ordnance Survey, Met Office and Companies House, is connect high growth potential businesses to other forms now one of the four founder members of the Public of support such as business incubators, technology and Data Group (PDG) of Trading Funds. As part of its innovation centres, and science parks. BCG will also commitment to the Government’s growth and transparency forge excellent relationships with Business Angels and agenda, Land Registry will be releasing detailed customer the venture capital industry to showcase businesses transaction and property price information free of charge seeking equity investment. via a new dedicated webpage. The housing market forms a key component of economic growth which is Public Houses why Land Registry will be releasing the residential property sales and transaction information free of charge, Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for helping the market to be better informed about trends Business, Innovation and Skills what representations he in price and volume. has received from (a) pub landlords and (b) As part of this, by the end of January 2012, Land large-companies owning public houses on the Registry will make available for free, downloadable for tenureship of public houses. [90205] reuse in an accessible and reuseable format under the Open Government Licence (OGL) the following data, Mr Davey: I have received numerous representations updated monthly: from both pub landlords and large companies owning i. number and types of applications by customer by month public houses. This is set out in more detail in information ii. number and types of transactions for value by customer by released under the Freedom of Information Act, which month may be found here: iii. number of applications in England and Wales, by region http://www.bis.gov.uk/site/foi/information-released and local authority district (or equivalent) by month iv. number of searches by month (which can be a leading Public Houses: Closures indicator of housing market movements). Furthermore, from March 2012, Land Registry will make available ‘Price Paid information’ showing all Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for residential property sales in England and Wales at Business, Innovation and Skills how many public address level. This will be downloadable for reuse, in a houses have closed in each local authority area in each reuseable format under the OGL, and updated monthly. of the last 10 years. [90273] Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Hurd: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate he has Cabinet Office. 793W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 794W

The information requested falls within the responsibility Mr Willetts: The Student Loans Company (SLC) is of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority responsible for administering the Student Finance England to reply. (SFE) service on behalf of the Secretary of State for Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated January 2012: Business, Innovation and Skills, the right hon. Member As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I for Twickenham (Vince Cable). I am advised by SLC have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question that information to show the number of complaints on how many public houses have closed in each local authority received by academic years is not readily available. The area in each of the last 10 years. [90273] table shows the number of complaints received by SLC Annual statistics on the number of enterprise deaths are available in relation to the SFE service by financial year. from 2002 onwards in the ONS release on Business Demography By way of context, the progressive increase in the at: level of complaints could in part be attributed to the www.statistics.gov.uk progressive increase in SLC’s work since 2009. SLC The latest statistics on the number of enterprise deaths for public took on responsibility for student finance assessments houses/bars have been provided in the spreadsheet, which show from English local authorities over a three year period, the number of enterprise deaths in the UK for public house/bars starting with new applicants for the 2009/10 academic by local authority from 2002 to 2010. year, and ending with all applicants for the 2011/12 Copies of the table have been placed in the House of Commons academic year. For the 2009/10 academic year SLC Library. received 470,000 applications, for the 2010/11 academic year this figure increased to 800,000, and for the 2011/12 Public Houses: Mutual Societies academic year SLC has to date received over 1 million applications. Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Number of registered complaints received by SLC in relation to the SFE service Business, Innovation and Skills whether he has Financial year Number of complaints considered taking steps to promote mutual models of 2009-10 1,431 pub ownership and management. [90199] 2010-11 3,653 2011-12 (to date) 4,122 Mr Davey: The Government are not minded to intervene Total 9,206 in setting the terms of commercial, contractual relationships within the pub industry. Student Finance England: Loans

Retail Trade Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what further resources, in addition to the formation of the Resolve Team, have Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State been put in place to deal with delays in the processing for Business, Innovation and Skills if he will assess the of applications by Student Finance England. [89345] effects of (a) low consumer confidence, (b) reduction in household income, (c) high inflation rates and (d) Mr Willetts: The Student Loans Company (SLC) is changes in consumer behaviour on the viability of responsible for administering the Student Finance England small independent traders. [89298] service on behalf of the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the right hon. Member for Mr Prisk: The Government are fully aware that in the Twickenham (Vince Cable). SLC improved its processing current economic conditions companies of all sizes and performance for the 2011/12 academic year cycle, fully in all sectors are facing a tough time. It is however processing 83% of applications for core tuition fee and difficult to assess the causes and effects of the myriad maintenance support by the start of term, compared to factors that impact on company performance. We keep 73% last year. SLC also improved its average processing in close touch with the major retail trade associations, time for core applications by more than three weeks and organisations such as the Federation of Small from 9.9 weeks for the 2010/11 cycle to 6.8 weeks for the Businesses, and so are alive to the concerns of small 2011/12 cycle. retailers. SLC continues to implement measures to improve the We take the plight of small businesses, including service it delivers and reduce the time taken to process small retailers, seriously which is why we are supporting applications. This year SLC introduced an electronic small businesses by addressing the challenges they face. link with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs to verify We are doing this by ensuring we have a predictable tax household income automatically, meaning that SLC system that rewards endeavour; ensuring businesses can was able to process the majority of new students’ access finance; enabling better access to both debt and applications for means-tested support without asking equity finance; and reducing red tape. We are also customers to send in financial evidence. SLC is also ensuring that small and medium-sized enterprises have improving staff training, providing simpler web-based access to the advice and guidance they need, including information, advice and guidance, and delivering processing through business coaching and mentoring. improvements, including to ICT-based systems. Student Finance England: Training Student Finance England: Complaints Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what training call Business, Innovation and Skills how many complaints centre staff at Student Finance England receive prior Student Finance England received in academic years to handling calls; and for how long such training lasts. (a) 2011-12, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2009-10. [89347] [89348] 795W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 796W

Mr Willetts: The Student Loans Company (SLC) is Schools do not need to provide the Department with responsible for administering the Student Finance England the results of this consultation though the Department service on behalf of the Secretary of State for Business, will seek confirmation from schools that the consultation Innovation and Skills, the right hon. Member for has taken place, the dates on which the consultation Twickenham (Vince Cable). Student Finance England took place, and that the Academy Trust is content to operates a flexible resource model to meet the demand proceed with conversion to academy status. Schools on its call centre throughout the year, with a core of should also ensure that consultation documentation is permanent staff at three locations in the UK supplemented available to the Department on request. by a variable number of additional temporary staff Adoption provided by two specialist companies. Permanent SLC staff receive four weeks’ induction Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for training, covering student finance products, system use Education what plans he has to change the cultural and customer service skills. They are then supported on match of children with families requirement during the a one-to-one basis for a further week before taking calls adoption process. [90004] independently. Staff at the external, specialist companies receive a condensed two week training programme covering Tim Loughton: The Government want to see more student finance products and system use with a shorter children adopted from care, where this is in their best and more focused section on customer service skills. interests. We want local authorities to look very critically They are then supported by on-site staff from SLC and at their adoption practice, particularly in respect of a dedicated help-line should they require assistance children who wait longest to be placed with adoptive answering customer queries. parents, such as black children. All staff are monitored to ensure quality standards I have published revised statutory adoption guidance, are met, have extensive coaching support from their which makes clear that the primary consideration for team manager and are allocated 12 days of additional local authorities must be whether the prospective adopters training through the year. can meet all or most of the child’s needs. It is plainly Third Sector unacceptable for a child to be denied loving adoptive parents solely on the grounds that the child and prospective Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for adopters do not share the same ethnic or cultural Business, Innovation and Skills how much funding his background. Department allocated to (a) Centrepoint, (b) Crisis, I have asked Martin Narey, who I have appointed as (c) Skill Force and (d) Shelter in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) ministerial adviser on adoption, to provide advice on 2011-12; and if he will make a statement. [90398] the reasons behind the delays in placing black children for adoption. I have also approved funding for a one-year Mr Davey: The Department has not directly funded pilot project, led by the British Association for Adoption any of the organisations named above in 2010-11 and and Fostering, to gain a better understanding of how 2011-12. the adoption register is being used to help match prospective adopters with children and how matching decisions are made at local level. EDUCATION Child Support Agency Academies Robert Flello: To ask the Secretary of State for Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what (a) meetings and (b) telephone Education (1) if he will place in the Library a copy of discussions he has had with Ministers in other each item of correspondence between his Department Government departments on proposals to introduce (i) and Ofsted relating to academies; [87578] up-front charges for using the Child Support Agency (2) if he will place in the Library a copy of each item (CSA) and (ii) administration fees for the recipients of of correspondence between his Department and Ofsted payments under the CSA. [87442] relating to Ofsted inspections to be undertaken on future dates. [87579] Tim Loughton [holding answer 19 December 2011]: The Secretary of State for Education, my right hon. Mr Gibb [holding answer 20 December 2011]: The Friend the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), information requested can be provided only at has had no meetings or telephone discussions with disproportionate cost. Ministers in other Government Departments on this issue. Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Other DfE Ministers have been part of cross-Government Education (1) whether academy trusts are required to discussions about the Child Support Agency and child notify his Department of the results of their maintenance reforms. This is part of the normal process consultations; [89050] of policy development and decision-making, particularly (2) what steps his Department has taken to monitor for issues where several Departments have a policy compliance with the duty to consult placed on interest. academy trusts by section 10 of the Academies Act 2010. [89051] Children Mr Gibb: There is a statutory requirement for a Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for school converting to academy status to carry out a Education what plans his Department has to integrate consultation but it is up to the school to decide with and monitor subjective well-being as a key outcome whom and how to consult. within the Positive for Youth strategy. [90141] 797W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 798W

Tim Loughton: The Positive for Youthstrategy includes to the accounts. It is recognised, however, that many nine outcome measures for young people that will be local authorities already support the savings of looked-after reported on annually. The first of these measures is a children and may wish to continue with these arrangements new national measure of young people’s subjective well- alongside the junior ISA provided by the Government. being that will be recorded as part of the Measuring National Well-being Programme commissioned by the Children: Research Prime Minister. This programme is being led by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the findings Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for will be published in July 2012. Education what research his Department has commissioned to measure the subjective well-being of Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for children. [90137] Education what methods are used by his Department to measure the effects of its decisions on the subjective Tim Loughton: Following an invitation by the Prime well-being of children. [90156] Minister last November, the National Statistician is producing new measures of subjective well-being. Office Tim Loughton: The Department monitors the impacts for National Statistics (ONS) is developing well-being of its decisions in various ways, including through measures for children and young people as part of the evaluations. The Department has a particular interest overall Measuring National Well-being Programme. The in the impacts of its decisions on attainment as well as Department is working with the ONS to help them other impacts that contribute to higher attainment, develop these measures. including well-being. The Department has also included subjective well-being Subjective well-being questions have been added to questions in the 2012 wave of the Smoking, Drinking the evaluation of the National Citizen Service (NCS) and Drug Use Survey which covers 11 to 15-year-olds. which brings together 16-year-olds from different We expect to obtain results from this survey in August backgrounds in a summer programme of challenge, 2012. service and learning. The NCS is currently half way through a two-year pilot. In addition, the Childhood Wellbeing Research Centre (CWRC), funded by the Department, has been scoping In addition, the Childhood Wellbeing Research Centre ways of developing a measure of well-being for use (CWRC), funded by the Department, has been scoping when evaluating children’s services. The initial report ways of developing a measure of well-being for use can be accessed here: when evaluating children’s services. The initial report can be accessed here: http://www.cwrc.ac.uk/news/documents/ Developing_CYPOC_Report_Summary_March_2011.pdf http://www.cwrc.ac.uk/news/documents/ Developing_CYPOC_Report_Summary_March_2011.pdf Curriculum: Design Children in Care: Individual Savings Accounts Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what recent assessment he has made of the Education what funding his Department has allocated study of design and technology in schools; and if he to support junior ISAs for looked-after children; and if will make a statement. [89968] he will make a statement. [89220] Mr Gibb [holding answer 16 January 2012]: Design Tim Loughton [holding answer 12 January 2012]: and Technology is currently a foundation subject within The Government have already announced its intention the national curriculum and is compulsory at Key Stages to provide a payment, into a Junior ISA, of £200 for 1, 2 and 3. The current review of the national curriculum every child looked after for 12 months or more and not is considering the future status of the subject. previously eligible for a Child Trust Fund. These payments Provisional figures show that in academic year 2010/11 are expected to cost some £16.7 million over the period there were 226,400 entries at GCSE in the subject. April 2012 to March 2015. The Department for Education is currently considering bids to operate the scheme. The Departmental Apprentices appointed supplier will also seek to raise additional funds for these accounts from charitable sources. Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many apprentices were employed by Education whether he is taking steps to encourage local each public body for which his Department is authorities to make regular contributions to junior responsible between (a) April 2010 and March 2011 ISAs for looked-after children; and if he will make a and (b) April and December 2011; and how many statement. [89221] apprenticeships he expects each public body to sponsor between (i) January and March 2012 and (ii) April 2012 Tim Loughton [holding answer 12 January 2012]: and March 2013. [88703] The Government have already announced their intention to provide a payment, into a junior ISA, of £200 for Tim Loughton: The Department does not hold every child looked after for 12 months or more and not information centrally on apprentices for its public bodies. previously eligible for a child trust fund. The supplier The contact informaiton for our ALBs can be found appointed to operate the scheme will also seek to raise at: additional funds for these accounts from charitable http://www.education.gov.uk/aboutdfe/armslengthbodies/ sources. Local authorities will be encouraged to contribute a00432/ndpbs-associated-with-the-department 799W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 800W

Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Departmental Work Experience Education how much funding from the public purse has been allocated to sponsor apprenticeships in each Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for of the public bodies for which his Department is Education what guidelines his Department issues to its responsible between (a) April 2010 and March 2011, non-departmental public bodies on the employment of (b) April 2011 and March 2012 and (c) April 2012 unpaid interns. [89401] and March 2013. [88704] Tim Loughton: The Department’s NDPBs maintain Tim Loughton: The Department does not hold their own human resources functions and agree internally information centrally on apprentices for its public bodies. their own approach to internships. For that reason the The contact informaiton for our ALBs can be found Department has not issued official guidelines on these at: matters. http://www.education.gov.uk/aboutdfe/armslengthbodies/ a00432/ndpbs-associated-with-the-department Education: Children

Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how much funding his Department Education what assessment he has made of the allocated to sponsor apprenticeships in his Department relationship between levels of subjective well-being of in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and how much such children and their educational attainment. [90138] funding he plans to allocate in 2012-13. [89148] Tim Loughton: There is a well-evidenced relationship Tim Loughton: The Department for Education allocated between children’s well-being and their educational funding to sponsor apprenticeships as follows: attainment—happier children tend also to do well in school. See, for example, research from the Centre for £ the Wider Benefits of Learning which can be accessed at: (a) 2010-11 290,246 http://eprints.ioe.ac.uk/2050/1/Gutman2008Children.pdf (b) 2011-12 94,000 However evidence on whether these links are causal—that Allocation of funding for 2012-13 has still to be higher subjective well-being in children leads to improved finalised. attainment, or whether higher levels of attainment lead to higher subjective well-being—has been less well- Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for researched. Education how many apprentices were employed by his Research from the Centre for the Economics of Department between (a) April 2010 and March 2011 Education has investigated this link and found that and (b) April and December 2011; and how many pupils who experience higher levels of enjoyment of apprenticeships he plans that his Department will school at age 14 go on to have higher levels of attainment sponsor between (i) January and March 2012 and (ii) at age 16 compared to pupils with lower levels of April and March 2013. [89217] enjoyment of school at age 14 who are otherwise similar in their characteristics. This suggests—but does not Tim Loughton: Apprentices in the Department are prove—that higher well-being is causing improvements contracted for a period of up to 18 months. The Department in attainment. employed 12 apprentices between April 2010 and March The research also found that children who have higher 2011 and 11 between April 2011 and December 2011. achievement at age 11 go on to enjoy school more at age The Department plans to recruit apprentices during 16, although this is not a strong relationship. 2012 but has yet to agree the numbers. On other indicators of well-being, pupils who experience higher levels of bullying at age 14 subsequently have Departmental Manpower lower levels of-academic achievement at age 16 compared to pupils with lower levels of bullying at age 14 who are Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for otherwise similar. Education how many speechwriters his Department The research can be accessed on the Centre for the employs at each pay grade. [89402] Economics of Education’s website: http://cee.lse.ac.uk/ceedps/ceesp04.pdf Tim Loughton: The Department employs fewer than five speechwriters all are senior information officers. E-mail

Departmental Recruitment Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Education (1) what steps have been taken to secure the Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for contents of private e-mail accounts of departmental Education which of his Department’s staff who have staff relating to official business; [89055] been employed since May 2010 were previously (2) whether (a) Rachel Woolf and (b) any staff of political appointees. [89048] the New Schools Network contacted him or his staff via a private e-mail account (i) during the tender Tim Loughton: Fewer than five staff employed by the process for the free schools pre-application support Department since May 2010 were previously political grant and (ii) before the tender criteria were discussed appointees. for the grant; [89056] 801W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 802W

(3) whether he plans to conduct a review on the use the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), has of private e-mail accounts by his staff for official asked the School Food Trust to undertake a qualitative business. [89057] study of the approach taken by academies to providing healthy school food. We expect the results to be published Tim Loughton: The Information Commissioner published in the spring this year. guidance on 15 December 2011 concerning information held in private e-mail accounts. The Cabinet Office is Free Schools: Finance considering this and will issue further guidance to Departments. Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for EU Law Education (1) how many applications his Department has received for the free schools pre-application support grant since its creation; and if he will place in John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for the Library a copy of each such application; [89046] Education how many of the regulations his Department brought into force through (a) primary (2) what reasons applicants for the free schools legislation, (b) secondary legislation and (c) other pre-application support grant were not interviewed; means originated from proposals by the European [89047] Commission in (i) 2010 and (ii) 2011. [88967] (3) whether the New Schools Network has disclosed any conflict of interest to his Department since June Tim Loughton: During 2010 and 2011, the Department 2010. [89052] for Education did not bring into force any legislation which originated from proposals by the European Mr Gibb: The Department received two applications Commission. for the grant to provide pre-application support to free school proposers. In line with normal practice with Free School Meals such grants, the Department does not intend to place these applications in the Library. In this instance, we John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for decided to conduct a paper-based exercise with clear Education what estimate he has made of the number of published criteria for assessment, allowing applicants to children receiving free school meals for whom such demonstrate their relevant skills and knowledge. In line meals are the only hot nutritious meal of the day. with the terms of the grant, New Schools Network [89066] routinely declares its current and potential conflicts of interest to the Department to ensure a transparent and Mr Gibb: The Department has not made any estimate productive working relationship. of the number of children receiving free school meals for whom such meals are the only hot nutritious meal of Playing Fields the day. While local authorities and schools are responsible for providing free school meals, there is no requirement that a free school meal should be a hot meal. David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what his policy is on allowing schools to Free Schools take over the playing fields of an adjacent school that has closed. [89935] Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Education whether his Department employs staff to Tim Loughton: The playing fields of maintained schools promote and encourage free schools. [89049] are protected by Section 77 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. Schools and authorities must Mr Gibb: The Department’s Communications obtain the Secretary of State for Education, my right Directorate works across a broad range of projects in hon. Friend the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael parallel rather than dedicating full-time individuals or Gove), approval before they can dispose of publically teams on any one policy. A number of communications funded land. Applications to dispose of school playing officials have therefore been engaged in communicating fields are approved only when it is demonstrated that the free schools’ programme at different stages. the application meets published criteria. One of those criteria requires schools and local authorities to consider Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for the needs of maintained schools within a one mile Education for what reason academies and free schools radius that are deficient in their playing field requirement, opened since September 2010 are not required to as prescribed by The Education (School Premises) Regulations 1999. adhere to mandatory nutritional standards. [89435]

Mr Gibb: Academies and free schools are required to Pupil Exclusions provide lunches where there is demand and free school meals where appropriate. Those opening from September Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for 2010 are free to promote healthy eating and good Education when he expects to (a) evaluate and (b) nutrition as they see fit. We have no reason to believe bring forward legislative proposals on a new approach that they will not provide healthy, balanced meals that to permanent exclusions. [89053] meet the current nutritional regulatory standards. In order to assess any changes in school food provision Mr Gibb: The new approach to school exclusion, that in schools which have converted to academy status, the sees schools deciding where excluded pupils are educated, Secretary of State for Education, my right hon. Friend and retaining responsibility for their progress and 803W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 804W attendance, is currently being tested in volunteer schools 16 year olds in education or training1 by whether their school at age 15 had a 2 around the country. These trials are due to finish in sixth form July 2014. Age16in: 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 The exclusions trials represent a significant change to current policy and thinking and it is important that the Population at 4 Government takes the time to understand all the 15 Without sixth 210,000 214,000 215,000 210,000 200,000 implications. The trial will be independently evaluated form2 (Number) throughout its three year term, and annual progress With sixth 365,000 372,000 378,000 379,000 370,000 reports will be published. form2 (Number) The findings of the evaluation will inform the All3 (Number) 576,000 586,000 592,000 590,000 570,000 development of policy, and when we have a clear picture 1 Defined as studying full or part-time or doing an apprenticeship during first year following completion of compulsory education. of the impact of the trial, we will bring forward legislative 2 Whether the school had a sixth form is based on its status at end of 2009/10. proposals. 3 Components may not sum to total due to rounding. 4 Coverage is pupils in mainstream state funded schools at age 15. Source: Pupils: Per Capita Costs DfE Matched administrative data

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Schools: Expenditure Education how much funding was granted per pupil to Shropshire Council in (a) 2009-10 and (b) 2010-11. Damian Hinds: To ask the Secretary of State for [87817] Education what estimate he has made of average expenditure by schools on training events and seminars Mr Gibb: Per pupil unit of funding figures for 2009-10 relating to examination and course work specifications; and 2010-11 for Shropshire county council are provided and what assessment he has made of (a) recent and as follows. The figures are for all funded pupils aged (b) long-term trends in the level of such expenditure. 3-19: [88323] Dedicated School Grants plus specific grants Funding per pupil (£) Mr Gibb: The Department does not collect data on 2009-10 2010-11 expenditure by schools on such training events and seminars. We are therefore unable to make an assessment Shropshire 4,450 4,690 of trends in such spending. Notes: 1. This covers funding through the Dedicated Schools Grant, School Standards Grant, School Standards Grant (Personalisation) and standards fund as well as Schools: Transport funding from the Learning and Skills Council; it excludes grants which are not allocated at LA level. 2. These figures are for all funded pupils aged 3-19. Paul Maynard: To ask the Secretary of State for 3. Figures have been rounded to the nearest £10. Education what estimate he has made of the number of School Leaving children who have received support through discretionary subsidies for home to school transport in the last three years. [89073] Nic Dakin: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what proportion of children who had Tim Loughton: The Department does not collect any previously studied in a school (a) with and (b) information from local authorities or other sources on without a sixth form, remained in education and the number of children for whom transport is provided, training after the age of 16 in each of the last five years irrespective of whether the child is eligible for statutory for which figures are available. [87861] free transport or discretionary support. Tim Loughton [holding answer 16 January 2012]: The information requested is shown in the following Schools: Warwick table. In all cases age refers to age at the start of the academic year. Chris White: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how much funding his Department and its 16 year olds in education or training1 by whether their school at age 15 had a sixth form2 predecessors have provided to (a) primary and (b) Age16in: secondary schools in Warwick and Leamington 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 constituency in each of the last five years. [88392]

Without sixth 178,000 185,000 190,000 190,000 188,000 form2 (Number) Mr Gibb: The Department allocates education funding With sixth 320,000 333,000 343,000 351,000 352,000 to local authorities so the requested information for form2 (Number) Warwick and Leamington constituency is not available. All3 (Number) 498,000 518,000 533,000 541,000 540,000 Since 2006-07, the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) is the main source of school funding. As the DSG is Without sixth 85 87 89 90 94 distributed through a single guaranteed unit of funding form2 per pupil, there is no apportionment made between the (Percentage) primary and secondary sectors. With sixth 88 90 91 93 95 form2 Funding figures for 2006-07 to 2010-11 for Warwickshire (Percentage) county council are provided in the following table. All (Percentage) 87 89 90 92 95 These are for all funded pupils aged three to 19 and are in cash terms. 805W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 806W

Cash terms funding—DSG plus grants pupils aged three to 19; Proportion of final year ITT trainees achieving QTS status by academic year Warwickshire Final year outcome for ITT trainees £ million Total ITT Achieved QTS Did not achieve trainees in final 2006-07 289.554 Academic year (%) QTS (%) year 2007-08 305.438 2007/08 88 12 37,450 2008-09 315.402 2008/09 88 12 37,590 2009-10 328.814 2009/10 89 11 38,970 2010-11 346.134 Notes: Notes: 1. Percentages rounded to the nearest 1% and total rounded to the nearest 10. 1. This covers funding through the Dedicated Schools Grant, School 2. Includes both undergraduate and postgraduate courses through mainstream Standards Grant, School Standards Grant (Personalisation) and Standards and employment-based routes. Fund; it excludes grants which are not allocated at LA level. Source: 2. Price Base: Cash. TDA Performance Profiles 1 Figures are rounded to the nearest 10 and taken from the DfE 3. These figures are for all funded pupils aged three to 19 as funded through the DSG. School Workforce in England Statistical First Release, TDA Census Cohort data and the TDA Census Publication for successive years. Students: Shropshire Teachers: Ex-servicemen

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Hollobone: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how much funding will be granted to Education what progress he is making in enrolling Shropshire council for each pupil for 2012-13. [87750] former service personnel into the teaching profession. [89522] Mr Gibb: Shropshire has been allocated £4,611.67 per pupil through the Dedicated Schools Grant for Mr Gibb [holding answer16 January 2012]: The 2012-13. In addition, it will receive: £600 for each pupil Government launched the Military to Mentors programme known to be eligible for free school meals at any time in in September 2011, which will aim to train up to 100 the last six years; £600 for each pupil continuously service leavers to work with some of our most vulnerable looked after for six months; and £250 for each pupil young people in schools this year. We are also working with a parent in the armed services. closely with the Ministry of Defence to develop the Indicative funding for sixth form pupils will be announced wider Troops to Teachers programme with the aim of at the end of January 2012, with finalised allocations encouraging high quality service leavers to transfer announced by the end of March 2012. their talents to schools, where they can become inspirational teachers and role models. We will announce further details of the programme Teachers shortly.

Teachers: Training Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many new graduates he expects to enter the teaching profession in (a) 2012, (b) 2013 and Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what steps his Department is taking to (c) 2014. [86731] improve regulation of teacher training seminars designed to improve knowledge of examination Mr Gibb [holding answer 19 December 2011]: The specifications in Key Stage 4 examinations run by (a) number of teachers that schools employ in future years examination awarding bodies and (b) non-awarding will, as now, be a matter for them to decide, according body private providers. [89323] to funding, local needs and subject to statutory requirements on class sizes where appropriate. When setting annual Mr Gibb: In December 2011, the Secretary of State initial teacher training (ITT) targets to ensure an adequate for Education, my right hon. Friend the Member for pool of teachers for schools to recruit from, the Department Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), asked the independent takes into account data relating to the number of trainees qualifications regulator, Ofqual, to investigate and report entering ITT courses and the typical success rates for on the serious allegations levelled against awarding achieving Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through these bodies of malpractice in seminars that they had provided courses. to teachers. Ofqual issued an interim report on 20 Teachers entering the profession in a given year will December, with an update on 6 January. These reports typically have started their ITT in one of the four can be found on Ofqual’s website at: preceding academic years. It therefore follows that the www.ofqual.gov.uk/files/2011-12-20-awarding-organisation- number of new graduates who wish to enter the teaching seminars-for-teachers.pdf profession will be indicated by the number of trainees and commencing ITT courses in the previous one to four www.ofqual.gov.uk/files/2012-01-06-letter-to-secretary-of- years. In 2009/10 39,500 trainees started an ITT course; state-statement-january-series.pdf?itemid=145 in 2010/11 this number was 38,300 and in 2011/12 this 1 We welcome Ofqual’s review into the future role of number was 35,410 . both regulated and unregulated seminars. It is clear to The proportion of final year ITT trainees who went the Government that if such events are to continue, on to achieve QTS in the three academic years to greater control is needed over the information that can 2009/10 can be found in the following table: be shared. Qualifications must be true tests of ability 807W Written Answers17 JANUARY 2012 Written Answers 808W across a suitably broad and challenging syllabus. Ofqual Mr Gibb: From September, schools will be placed will report on the outcome of their review by the under a duty to secure access to independent and impartial summer. careers guidance for their pupils. The guidance must include information on the full range of 16 to 18 University Technical College education and training options, including apprenticeships. Statutory guidance will set expectations about the type Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for and quality of support schools should offer under the Education how many officials in his Department are new duty, including the need to secure face-to-face working on the proposed creation of a University careers guidance where it is the most suitable support, Technical College in Plymouth. [89316] particularly for the disadvantaged. In support of the new duty, schools will be able to Mr Gibb: The Department’s Free Schools Group, access high quality support from providers who have that includes the University Technical Colleges (UTCs) achieved a national quality standard for careers guidance. and Studio Schools Division, works across a broad This quality standard will assist schools in making range of projects in parallel rather than dedicating well-informed decisions about which provider to use. full-time individuals or teams on any one project. A number of officials will therefore be engaged in supporting Written Questions: Government Responses delivery of the Plymouth UTC at different stages. Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Vocational Guidance Education when he plans to answer question 88686, on private email accounts, tabled on 20 December 2011 for Mr Sheerman: To ask the Secretary of State for answer on 10 January 2012. [90375] Education what steps he is taking to ensure that pupils receive a high quality level of information, guidance Tim Loughton: A response to the hon. Member’s and advice on future education and career options. question was issued on 12 January 2012, Official Report, [89076] column 425W.

1MC Ministerial Corrections17 JANUARY 2012 Ministerial Corrections 2MC

contracts awarded to (i) Deloitte and (ii) associates of Ministerial Correction Deloitte since May 2010. [85945] [Official Report, 10 January 2012, Vol. 538, c. 249-52W.] Tuesday 17 January 2012 Letter of correction from Francis Maude: An error has been identified in the answer given to the hon. Member for Glasgow North West (John CABINET OFFICE Robertson) on 10 January 2012. The full answer given was as follows: Deloitte: Government Departments Mr Maude: The following table summarises contracts John Robertson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet that are listed on Contract Finder. The total potential Office pursuant to the answer of 14 November 2011, value of these contracts exceeds £1.47 billion; actual net Official Report, columns 537-8W, on Government value will depend on usage, particularly of framework departments: Deloitte, what the (a) net value and agreements. Further information is held by individual (b) individual value was of each of the Government Departments.

Supplier Procuring authority Contract Value (£)

Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA8 Scotland—Ingeus 141,761,075 Deloitte Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions English Work Programme—CPA16 West 75,893,060 Yorkshire—Ingeus Deloitte Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA5 North East—Ingeus 111,509,095 Deloitte Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA1 East of England— 117,887,335 Ingeus Deloitte Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA3 West London—Ingeus 102,846,725 Deloitte Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA2 East Midlands—Ingeus 116,576,495 Deloitte Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA6 North West— 107,089,660 Merseyside, Halton, Cumbria and Lancashire— Ingeus Deloitte Deloitte LLP Northern Ireland Audit Office Financial auditing services 264,000 Deloitte LLP Skills Funding Agency Cloud Readiness 120,000 Deloitte Humber NHS Foundation Trust Auditing services 1— Deloitte LLP Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Internal audit services 1— Foundation Trust Deloitte LLP Fabrick Housing Group Auditing services 16,000,000 Deloitte LLP One Vision Housing Ltd Auditing services 25,000,000 Deloitte National Audit Office Accounting and auditing services 2,450,000 Deloitte MCS Ltd. Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Business and management consultancy and related 400,000,000 Council services2 Deloitte LLP (local Audit Scotland Statutory audit services 2,439,000 authorities) Deloitte LLP (health Audit Scotland Statutory audit services 1,896,000 bodies) Deloitte LLP Coventry City Council Financial consultancy services2 20,000,000 Deloitte LLP University of Leeds Statutory audit services 1— Deloitte and Touche North Devon District Council Internal audit services 33,000,000 Public Sector Internal Audit Ltd Deloitte Herefordshire Council Auditing services2 3,000,000 Drivers Jonas Deloitte NHS Shared Business Services Ltd Property management services of real estate on a 1— fee or contract basis2 Deloitte LLP The Pensions Regulator Pension services2 1— Deloitte LLP The Pensions Regulator Business and management consultancy and related 1— services2 Deloitte LLP Buying Solutions Computer-related professional services2 50,000,000 Deloitte LLP Buying Solutions Computer-related professional services2 50,000,000 Deloitte LLP Buying Solutions Computer-related professional services2 50,000,000 Deloitte LLP Buying Solutions Computer-related professional services2 50,000,000 Drivers Jonas Deloitte Swan Housing Association Ltd Architectural, construction, engineering and 1— inspection services2 1 No data 2 Framework agreements rather than individual contracts. 3MC Ministerial Corrections17 JANUARY 2012 Ministerial Corrections 4MC

The correct answer should have been: value will depend on usage, particularly of framework agreements. Further information is held by individual Mr Maude: The following table summarises Departments. contracts that are listed on Contract Finder. The net

Supplier Procuring authority Contract Value (£)

Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA8 Scotland—Ingeus 141,761,075 Deloitte2 Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions English Work Programme—CPA16 West 75,893,060 Yorkshire—Ingeus Deloitte2 Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA5 North East—Ingeus 111,509,095 Deloitte2 Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA1 East of England— 117,887,335 Ingeus Deloitte2 Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA3 West London—Ingeus 102,846,725 Deloitte2 Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA2 East Midlands—Ingeus 116,576,495 Deloitte2 Ingeus Deloitte Department for Work and Pensions Work Programme—CPA6 North West— 107,089,660 Merseyside, Halton, Cumbria and Lancashire— Ingeus Deloitte2 Deloitte LLP Northern Ireland Audit Office Financial auditing services 264,000 Deloitte LLP Skills Funding Agency Cloud Readiness 120,000 Deloitte Humber NHS Foundation Trust Auditing services 1— Deloitte LLP Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Internal audit services 1— Foundation Trust Deloitte LLP Fabrick Housing Group Auditing services 160,000 Deloitte LLP One Vision Housing Ltd Auditing services2 250,000 Deloitte National Audit Office Accounting and auditing services 2,450,000 Deloitte MCS Ltd. Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Business and management consultancy and related 4,000,000 Council services2 Deloitte LLP (local Audit Scotland Statutory audit services 2,439,000 authorities) Deloitte LLP (health Audit Scotland Statutory audit services 1,896,000 bodies) Deloitte LLP Coventry City Council Financial consultancy services2 20,000,000 Deloitte LLP University of Leeds Statutory audit services 1— Deloitte and Touche North Devon District Council Internal audit services 330,000 Public Sector Internal Audit Ltd Deloitte Herefordshire Council Auditing services2 3,000,000 Drivers Jonas Deloitte NHS Shared Business Services Ltd Property management services of real estate on a 1— fee or contract basis2 Deloitte LLP The Pensions Regulator Pension services2 1— Deloitte LLP The Pensions Regulator Business and management consultancy and related 1— services2 Deloitte LLP Buying Solutions Computer-related professional services (Lot 1)2 50,000,000 Deloitte LLP Buying Solutions Computer-related professional services (Lot 2)2 50,000,000 Deloitte LLP Buying Solutions Computer-related professional services (Lot 3)2 50,000,000 Deloitte LLP Buying Solutions Computer-related professional services (Lot 5)2 50,000,000 Drivers Jonas Deloitte Swan Housing Association Ltd Architectural, construction, engineering and 1— inspection services2 1 No data 2 These are framework agreements or contracts split into lots, under which Deloitte is one of several successful companies; the contract value represents the total potential value across all successful bidders. ORAL ANSWERS

Tuesday 17 January 2012

Col. No. Col. No. FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 595 FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE— Brazil ...... 600 continued Burma...... 607 Middle East ...... 602 Colombia ...... 605 National Emergency ...... 597 EU Economy ...... 598 Russia ...... 604 International Conference on Afghanistan...... 596 Shaker Aamer ...... 595 Libyan Assets...... 609 Topical Questions ...... 609 Middle East ...... 600 Tunisia ...... 606 WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Tuesday 17 January 2012

Col. No. Col. No. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS...... 33WS HOME DEPARTMENT...... 36WS Regional Development Agencies (Closure)...... 33WS Late Night Drinking (Late Night Levy and Early Morning Restriction Orders) ...... 36WS COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 33WS Disabled Facilities Grant...... 33WS PRIME MINISTER ...... 37WS Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe DEFENCE...... 34WS (UK Delegation)...... 37WS Armed Forces Redundancy Programme...... 34WS Puma ZA934 (Findings of Service Inquiry) ...... 35WS TRANSPORT ...... 37WS Civil Aviation Authority Environmental DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 35WS Objectives ...... 37WS Devolution...... 35WS Plug-In Car Grant Review ...... 38WS WRITTEN ANSWERS

Tuesday 17 January 2012

Col. No. Col. No. ATTORNEY-GENERAL ...... 633W CABINET OFFICE—continued Departmental Pay ...... 633W Birth Rate: Greater London...... 753W Census ...... 753W BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS ...... 779W Childbirth: Wales ...... 754W Apprentices: Ashfield...... 779W Departmental Manpower...... 754W Beer: Competition...... 779W Departmental Work Experience...... 754W Biofuels: Research...... 780W Employment ...... 755W Breathalysers...... 780W Households: Greater London ...... 755W Business: Government Assistance ...... 781W Pay: Scotland ...... 756W Business: Regulation ...... 781W Population Studies: Migration ...... 757W Charities: West Midlands ...... 782W Third Sector...... 757W Debt Collection...... 782W Departmental Pay ...... 782W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 627W Employment Tribunals Service...... 786W Affordable Housing: Rural Areas...... 627W EU External Trade: India...... 787W Commission for Local Administration in England. 627W EU Law...... 787W Council Housing...... 628W Foreign Trade...... 787W Council Tax Benefits...... 629W Further Education: Higher Education ...... 788W Departmental Apprentices ...... 629W Higher Education: North East ...... 790W Departmental Publications ...... 630W Land Registry ...... 790W Government Procurement Card ...... 630W New Businesses ...... 792W Local Government Finance: Housing ...... 631W Public Houses ...... 792W Members: Correspondence ...... 631W Public Houses: Closures...... 792W Social Rented Housing: Repairs and Public Houses: Mutual Societies ...... 793W Maintenance ...... 631W Retail Trade ...... 793W Sustainable Communities Act 2007...... 632W Student Finance England: Complaints ...... 793W Travellers: Caravan Sites ...... 632W Student Finance England: Loans ...... 794W Water: Conservation ...... 632W Student Finance England: Training ...... 794W Third Sector...... 795W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT ...... 685W CABINET OFFICE...... 752W Arts...... 685W Aviation ...... 752W Broadband ...... 686W Col. No. Col. No. CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT—continued EDUCATION—continued Broadband: Business...... 686W Teachers: Training...... 806W Broadband: EU Countries ...... 687W University Technical College...... 807W Charles Dickens ...... 687W Vocational Guidance...... 807W English Heritage: Finance...... 687W Written Questions: Government Responses ...... 808W Get Set Network ...... 687W Members: Correspondence ...... 688W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 674W Mobile Phones: Aerials...... 688W Biofuels...... 674W Olympic Games 2012 ...... 688W Biomass: Scotland...... 675W Olympic Games 2012: Tickets...... 689W Coal Fired Power Stations...... 675W Olympic Games 2012: Tourism ...... 689W Departmental Apprentice ...... 676W Olympic Games 2012: Wi-Fi...... 690W Departmental Pay ...... 676W Sports: Equal Opportunities ...... 690W Energy: Billing ...... 677W Sports: Expenditure ...... 690W Energy: Conservation...... 677W Sports: Training ...... 691W Energy: Fracking ...... 678W War Memorials: Repairs and Maintenance...... 691W Energy: Older People ...... 678W Energy: Prices ...... 678W DEFENCE...... 725W Fossil Fuels ...... 679W Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations ...... 725W Power Failures...... 680W Animals: Euthanasia...... 725W Renewable Energy...... 680W Armed Forces: Animals ...... 726W Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs...... 681W Armed Forces: Diamond Jubilee 2012 ...... 726W River Severn: Tidal Power...... 681W Armed Forces: Redundancy...... 727W Solar Power...... 682W Armed Forces: Training ...... 727W Warm Home Discount Scheme ...... 683W Astute Class Submarines...... 727W Warm Home Discount Scheme: Mobile Homes..... 683W Conflict Prevention: Finance ...... 728W Wind Power ...... 683W Counter-Terrorism: Finance ...... 728W Wind Power: Safety...... 684W Diamond Jubilee 2012: Medals ...... 728W Ex-servicemen: Health Services...... 728W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft...... 729W AFFAIRS...... 733W Libya: Bombs...... 729W Agriculture...... 733W Military Aircraft ...... 729W Animal Welfare: Circuses...... 733W Royal Artillery ...... 729W Animal Welfare: Farms ...... 734W Somalia: Piracy ...... 730W Animal Welfare: Licensing ...... 734W Submarines ...... 730W Batteries: Recycling...... 735W Tornado Aircraft: Repairs and Maintenance ...... 730W Birds: Nature Conservation ...... 735W UK National Codification Bureau...... 731W Bovine Tuberculosis ...... 736W War Pensions: Tribunals...... 732W British Waterways ...... 736W Wellington Barracks: Repairs and Maintenance .... 732W Canal and River Trust...... 737W Coastal Erosion: Bournemouth...... 737W Departmental Design...... 738W DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 751W Departmental Equality ...... 739W Work Experience...... 751W Departmental Manpower...... 741W Departmental Procurement...... 741W EDUCATION...... 795W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 742W Academies...... 795W Departmental Voluntary Work ...... 742W Adoption ...... 796W Dogs ...... 743W Child Support Agency ...... 796W Dogs: Tagging...... 743W Children...... 796W Ecosystem Markets Task Force...... 743W Children in Care: Individual Savings Accounts...... 797W Eggs: EU Law ...... 744W Children: Research...... 798W Environmental Protection Act 1990 ...... 744W Curriculum: Design...... 798W Fisheries: Licensing...... 744W Departmental Apprentices ...... 798W Fisheries: Navy ...... 745W Departmental Manpower...... 799W Fisheries: Subsidies ...... 745W Departmental Recruitment ...... 799W Floods: Insurance ...... 746W Departmental Work Experience...... 800W Food: Additives...... 746W Education: Children...... 800W Food: Salt ...... 747W E-mail ...... 800W Food: Waste...... 747W EU Law...... 801W Hen Harriers: Nature Conservation...... 747W Free School Meals...... 801W Landfill Tax ...... 748W Free Schools...... 801W Poultry: Animal Welfare ...... 748W Free Schools: Finance ...... 802W Professor Tim Lang ...... 749W Playing Fields...... 802W Seals: Conservation...... 749W Pupil Exclusions...... 802W Sewers: Planning ...... 749W Pupils: Per Capita Costs...... 803W Sussex Wildlife Trust...... 749W School Leaving...... 803W Water Companies...... 750W Schools: Expenditure ...... 804W Water: Meters ...... 750W Schools: Transport ...... 804W Water Supply: Israel...... 750W Schools: Warwick...... 804W Written Questions: Government Responses ...... 750W Students: Shropshire ...... 805W Teachers...... 805W FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 711W Teachers: Ex-servicemen ...... 806W Bhutan ...... 714W Col. No. Col. No. FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE— HOME DEPARTMENT—continued continued Deportation ...... 659W Bosnia and Herzegovina: Politics and EU Law...... 659W Government...... 714W Extradition: Republic of Ireland...... 660W British Nationals Abroad: Homicide ...... 715W Firearms: Licensing ...... 662W Burma...... 711W Human Trafficking ...... 662W Burma: Political Prisoners...... 715W Members: Correspondence ...... 665W Capital Punishment...... 715W Morton Hall Immigration Removal Centre...... 665W China: Democracy ...... 716W Offenders: Mental Illness ...... 667W Common Agricultural Policy ...... 716W Police: Manpower ...... 668W Commonwealth ...... 716W Prisoners: Repatriation ...... 669W Democracy...... 717W Proceeds of Crime Act 2000...... 671W Democratic Republic of Congo: Elections ...... 717W Prostitution: Greater London ...... 671W Democratic Republic of Congo: Military Aid...... 718W Scrap Metal: North East...... 671W Democratic Republic of Congo: Politics and Sexual Offences: Travel Restrictions...... 671W Government...... 718W Specialist Crime Division 9 ...... 672W Departmental Apprentices ...... 719W Theft: Metals ...... 672W Departmental Meetings ...... 719W Theft: Natural Gas...... 674W Departmental Work Experience...... 720W Third Sector...... 674W Diplomatic Network ...... 713W Global Response Centre ...... 720W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 655W India: EU External Trade...... 720W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 655W Iran...... 711W Departmental Temporary Employment ...... 655W Iran: Sanctions...... 721W Development Aid...... 655W Libya...... 714W Famine: International Co-operation ...... 656W Middle East Peace Process ...... 713W Food Aid...... 656W Nigeria: Christianity ...... 721W Palestine...... 714W JUSTICE...... 692W Persecution of Christians...... 711W Children...... 692W Serbia: Kosovo...... 721W Community Legal Service ...... 692W Singapore: Financial Services...... 722W Coroners: Witnesses...... 693W The Commonwealth ...... 713W Courts: Unpaid Fines ...... 693W Tunisia ...... 712W Criminal Injuries Compensation ...... 694W Turks and Caicos Islands ...... 713W Departmental Apprentices ...... 695W United Nations ...... 722W Departmental Aviation ...... 696W Departmental Consultants...... 696W HEALTH...... 758W Freedom of Information ...... 696W Baby Care Units: Nurses...... 758W Legal Aid Scheme: Families ...... 697W Baby Care Units: Standards...... 758W Legal Aid Scheme: Personal Injury ...... 698W Bone Diseases ...... 758W Legal Aid Scheme: Prisoners...... 699W Children: Health ...... 759W Legal Aid Scheme: Social Security Benefits ...... 699W Circle Health...... 760W Legal Services Commission...... 700W Departmental Manpower...... 760W Offenders: Deportation...... 699W Departmental Work Experience...... 760W Offenders: Rehabilitation ...... 699W Employment Agencies...... 760W Post-Mortems ...... 700W EU Law...... 761W Prison Accommodation ...... 701W Family Planning: Finance ...... 762W Prison Officers Association: Trade Unions...... 702W General Practitioners ...... 763W Prisoners: Foreign Nationals...... 703W Health Services: Accidents ...... 763W Prisoners: Jamaica ...... 703W Health Services: Foreign Nationals ...... 764W Prisoners’ Release...... 702W Health Services: Human Trafficking ...... 765W Third Sector...... 703W Health Services: Older People ...... 766W Young Offenders: Suicide...... 704W Hearing Impairment: Somerset...... 766W Hinchingbrooke Hospital...... 769W LEADER OF THE HOUSE ...... 685W Hospitals: Infectious Diseases...... 773W Departmental Pay ...... 685W Hospitals: Management ...... 773W Industrial Accidents...... 773W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 625W Medical Treatments...... 774W Departmental Work Experience...... 625W NHS...... 774W Firearms ...... 625W NHS: Negligence ...... 774W NHS: Redundancy Pay ...... 776W PRIME MINISTER ...... 626W NHS: Reorganisation...... 777W Aidan Burley...... 626W NHS: Standards...... 777W Nurses...... 777W TRANSPORT ...... 635W Plastic Surgery ...... 778W BMI ...... 635W Suicide ...... 778W Departmental Procurement...... 636W Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency: Closures ..... 636W HOME DEPARTMENT...... 657W Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency: Finance ...... 637W Asylum ...... 657W Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency: Manpower.. 637W Departmental Manpower...... 658W Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency: Departmental Redundancy Pay ...... 659W Redundancy Pay ...... 638W Col. No. Col. No. TRANSPORT—continued TREASURY—continued Driving Under Influence: Rehabilitation...... 638W Unemployment: Young People...... 710W Oil...... 639W Railway Stations: Greater London...... 639W WALES...... 623W Railways: Conflict of Interests ...... 639W Departmental Pay...... 623W Railways: Finance ...... 639W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 624W Railways: Profits ...... 640W Fire Services: Pensions ...... 625W Railways: Reform...... 640W Rescue Services ...... 625W Railways: Richmond upon Thames...... 641W WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 643W Road Traffic Offences...... 641W Children...... 643W Road Works: Greater London...... 642W Departmental Location...... 643W Shipping: Marriage ...... 642W Departmental Official Hospitality...... 643W Departmental Private Investigators...... 644W TREASURY ...... 704W Departmental Work Experience...... 644W Air Passenger Duty ...... 704W Disability Living Allowance...... 644W Banks: Pay ...... 704W Employment: Refugees ...... 645W Capital Transfer Tax ...... 705W Employment Schemes ...... 645W Children...... 705W Future Jobs Fund...... 646W Debts ...... 705W Housing Benefit ...... 647W Departmental Manpower...... 706W Industrial Diseases: Compensation ...... 647W Departmental Work Experience...... 706W Industrial Injuries: Construction...... 648W EU Law...... 706W New Deal Schemes...... 649W Excise Duties: Fuels ...... 706W PAYE...... 649W Financial Services: Standards...... 707W Social Security Benefits...... 650W PAYE...... 707W Social Security Benefits: Fraud ...... 651W Stamp Duty Land Tax ...... 707W Social Security Benefits: Glasgow North...... 651W Tax Avoidance ...... 709W Universal Credit...... 653W Taxation: Business ...... 709W Work Capability Assessments ...... 653W Taxation: Tribunals...... 710W Work Experience...... 655W MINISTERIAL CORRECTION

Tuesday 17 January 2012

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not later than Tuesday 24 January 2012

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CONTENTS

Tuesday 17 January 2012

Oral Answers to Questions [Col. 595] [see index inside back page] Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs

Sexual Offences (Amendment) [Col. 618] Motion for leave to bring in Bill—(John Mann)—agreed to Bill presented, and read the First time

Future of Town Centres and High Streets [Col. 622] General debate

Midwife and Maternity Services [Col. 723] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Westminster Hall Care of the Dying [Col. 193WH] Carbon Capture and Storage (Scotland) [Col. 217WH] Music Venues (Disabled Access) [Col. 241WH] Parking (Westminster) [Col. 249WH] Noise Reduction (M54) [Col. 258WH] Debates on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 33WS]

Written Answers to Questions [Col. 623W] [see index inside back page]

Ministerial Correction [Col. 1MC]