Monday Volume 546 11 June 2012 No. 11

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Monday 11 June 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] HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT

MEMBERS OF THE CABINET

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE SPEAKER—The Rt Hon. John Bercow, MP

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

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

HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION The Rt Hon. The Speaker (Chairman), Sir Paul Beresford, MP, Mr Frank Doran, MP, Ms Angela Eagle, MP, MP, John Thurso, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir George Young, MP SECRETARY OF THE COMMISSION—Robert Twigger ASSISTANT SECRETARY—Joanna Dodd

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

LIAISON COMMITTEE The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Beith, MP (Chair), Mr Graham Allen, MP, The Rt Hon. James Arbuthnot, MP, Mr Adrian Bailey, MP, The Rt Hon. Kevin Barron, MP, Dame Anne Begg, MP, Mr Clive Betts, MP, The Rt Hon. Malcolm Bruce, MP, Mr William Cash, MP, Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, MP, Mr Ian Davidson, MP, DavidTCDavies, MP, The Rt Hon. Stephen Dorrell, MP, Mrs Louise Ellman, MP, Natascha Engel, MP, Dr Hywel Francis, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP, The Rt Hon. Margaret Hodge, MP, Mr Bernard Jenkin, MP, The Rt Hon. Greg Knight, MP, Miss Anne McIntosh, MP, Andrew Miller, MP, Mr George Mudie, MP, Richard Ottaway, MP, Mr Laurence Robertson, MP, Mr Graham Stuart, MP, Mr Robert Syms, MP, John Thurso, MP, Mr Andrew Tyrie, MP, The Rt Hon. Keith Vaz, MP, Joan Walley, MP, Mr John Whittingdale, MP, Mr Tim Yeo, MP CLERKS—Andrew Kennon, Philippa Helme

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

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

PARLIAMENTARY COMMISSIONER FOR STANDARDS—John Lyon, CB PARLIAMENTARY SECURITY DIRECTOR—Peter Mason

11 June 2012

THE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES OFFICIAL REPORT

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

SIXTY-FIRST YEAR OF THE REIGN OF HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II

SIXTH SERIES VOLUME 546 SECOND VOLUME OF SESSION 2012-2013

by gunfire, on Sunday 3 June. We owe them a debt of House of Commons gratitude for their service and sacrifice, which we will never forget. I know the thoughts of the whole House Monday 11 June 2012 will be with their families and loved ones. I am sure the House will also want to join me in The House met at half-past Two o’clock paying tribute to the bravery of the British and American forces involved in the operation to rescue aid worker Helen Johnston and her three colleagues, and to the PRAYERS Afghans for the huge help they provided throughout. The rescue operation was conducted with immense skill and professionalism in the most difficult terrain imaginable. R PEAKER in the Chair [M S ] Through this operation, we send a clear message to terrorists around the world that the UK will not tolerate the kidnapping of our citizens. Oral Answers to Questions As I announced to the House in May, the core committed equipment programme—which covers investment in equipment, data systems and equipment support—amounts to just under £152 billion over 10 years. This includes DEFENCE some £80 billion for new equipment and its support and, for the first time, over £4 billion of centrally held The Secretary of State was asked— contingency to ensure the robustness of the plan. In addition, the Department has a further unallocated New Equipment (Expenditure) £8 billion in the equipment budget. This will be allocated to projects not yet in the committed core programme 1. Karen Lumley (Redditch) (Con): What his Department’s only when it is necessary to commit in order to ensure planned expenditure on new equipment is over the next the required delivery, and when the project in question 10 years. [110374] is demonstrated to be affordable and with military advice.

8. James Morris (Halesowen and Rowley Regis) (Con): Karen Lumley: May I join the Secretary of State in What his Department’s planned expenditure on new offering my condolences to all those brave troops? equipment is over the next 10 years. [110550] My visit to Afghanistan last year served to bring The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr Philip Hammond): home to me how important it is for our troops that any Before I answer the question, I am sure the House will uncertainty about future equipment supplies is eliminated. wish to join me in paying tribute to the three servicemen Therefore, will my right hon. Friend offer more details who have lost their lives in Afghanistan since the House on the £4 billion contingency fund that is in place to last met: Captain Stephen Healey of 1st Battalion, The ensure the robustness of the equipment programme? Royal Welsh, who was killed by an improvised explosive device in the upper Gereshk valley on Saturday 26 May; Mr Hammond: I agree with my hon. Friend that what Corporal Michael Thacker, also of 1st Battalion, The our armed forces particularly want to know is that, Royal Welsh, who was killed by gunfire in Nahr-e Saraj unlike sometimes in the past, they will always have the on Friday 1 June; and Private Gregg Stone of 3rd protective equipment and the support helicopters that Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment, who was also killed they need. Through our balancing of the equipment 3 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 4 plan and introducing the £4 billion contingency fund, which has already cost the taxpayer £45 million, therefore they will have much greater assurance that that will the poses capability risks. Will the Secretary of State tell the case. That is the least we owe to them. House what were the strategic—not the budgetary—reasons for his changing his mind? James Morris: Whilst having a long-term plan for defence equipment is crucial for our conventional military Mr Hammond: I notice that the hon. Lady did not tell capability, does the Secretary of State agree that we also the House what was the strategic reason for Labour need to be investing in cyber-defence capability, to having delayed the programme for five years, before we combat threats to our national security from this rapidly grasped the nettle and decided to cancel it. We take evolving threat? decisions on the basis of advice from the Armed Forces Committee, which takes the budget available and decides Mr Hammond: The Department certainly recognises what the priorities should be. In this case, the First Sea the rapidly evolving threat from cyberspace, and we Lord and his colleagues on the Armed Forces Committee keep it under constant review. The national cyber-security have decided that the programme is not a high priority programme has provided the Department with £90 million, for naval spending. and the Department has allocated some additional funding to increase investment in cyber-security this Life Insurance year, enhancing our existing capabilities. It will also be increasingly appropriate to consider cyber-security issues 2. Rosie Cooper (West Lancashire) (Lab): What his as an integral part of wider projects that depend on policy is on providing life insurance for service personnel. networked command and control capabilities. [110375]

Mr Ian Davidson (Glasgow South West) (Lab/Co-op): The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): The sums the Secretary of State mentions are, indeed, The Ministry of Defence provides pensions and substantial and will guarantee thousands, if not tens of compensation for personnel injured due to service, and thousands, of jobs. How many of those jobs does he benefits for the dependants of those whose death is due envisage will be in Scotland in the event that Scotland to service, through the armed forces pension schemes decides to be separate? and armed forces compensation scheme. However, we also have a duty of care to ensure that personal accident Mr Hammond: Clearly, at this stage it is not possible and life insurance cover is available to those service to identify how many jobs will be created in different personnel who consider they require it. This cover is parts of the United Kingdom by the equipment programme voluntary and separate from the benefits provided by we currently envisage. However, we enjoy an exemption the Government. The Ministry of Defence arranges from European Union procurement rules in respect of personal accident and life insurance cover through the defence capabilities when we are procuring them in a PAX and service life insurance schemes provided through way that protects our national defence capability, and Aon Ltd and the Sterling Insurance Group respectively. if Scotland were not a part of the UK, it would be competing for defence contracts in the open market Rosie Cooper: I think most military families will not along with other providers in Europe and beyond. be entirely happy with the Minister’s answer. How much would it cost to provide fully funded—100%— Mrs Madeleine Moon (Bridgend) (Lab): Since May state-funded insurance to all those on the front line, and 2010, £1,250,000 worth of kit and equipment have been will he and his Department consider doing that? stolen from the Ministry of Defence and its bases across the UK. That includes night vision goggles, body Nick Harvey: In a sense, we already provide cover for armour, military uniforms and boots, and even an aircraft those on the front line in the matter I have described— fuselage. How much of the new spend will be covering through the armed forces compensation scheme and unexplained thefts which have not been investigated the armed forces pension schemes—so that anyone who and for which only one person has ever been prosecuted? suffers in consequence of their military service is compensated appropriately. The hon. Lady will be aware Mr Hammond: The hon. Lady can probably do the that, after the previous Government ordered an independent maths: she says £1.25 million worth of equipment has review of the armed forces compensation scheme, the been stolen, and I have announced a £152 billion investment, amounts payable were substantially increased. If members so she can work it out for herself. As a member of the of the armed services decide, for personal reasons, that Defence Committee, which asked questions about this they want to seek cover additional to that, we are matter, she will know that of the equipment listed as determined to ensure that they are not disadvantaged or stolen, a significant amount has been recovered, but not prevented from doing so on account of their service in necessarily netted off against that figure, so in fact the the armed forces. That is why we intervened in the total is probably less than the £1.25 million she suggests. market to ensure that the schemes I mentioned are available, but it would not be right for us to go out and Alison Seabeck (Plymouth, Moor View) (Lab): May procure those policies on behalf of individuals: these I, on behalf of the Opposition, join in the condolences are personal decisions that those individuals make. We offered to the families of the three servicemen who, provide death-in-service and injury-in-service benefits; tragically, gave their lives serving their nation? it is up to— A decision has been taken to cut the co-operative engagement capability, which was designed, among other Mr Speaker: Order. Minister of State, I think there is things, to enable and support a reduction in the number extensive scope for an Adjournment debate on the of type 45s from eight to six. Dropping the programme, matter. 5 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 6

Mr James Gray (North Wiltshire) (Con): I will not refuelling study. We do not think that the money has start an Adjournment debate on the matter, Mr Speaker, been wasted. Changing the variant was considered the but the armed forces compensation scheme, although best course of action under the SDSR, and these costs first class, does not go quite far enough. It was recently were necessarily incurred. reported that as many as 50 soldiers killed on the front line in Afghanistan had no private life insurance at all. Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): Can my Could not the MOD do more both to encourage and to hon. Friend confirm that it is our intention to build the facilitate the provision of private life insurance to everyone two carriers so that both are able to operate fixed-wing on active service in Afghanistan? aircraft and that we will purchase enough fixed-wing aircraft to operate from both of those carriers? Nick Harvey: We do encourage individuals to take out additional cover, but people’s circumstances will Peter Luff: I can confirm that both carriers will be vary enormously in terms of mortgage liabilities, the built; it will be a decision in the next SDSR as to size of their family or anything else they wish to cover whether or not both are operated. Similarly, we are for. We heavily subsidise these schemes while people are following an incremental acquisition policy on the joint on active service in Afghanistan, but it would not be strike fighter itself. Therefore, I cannot give my hon. right for the state to assume responsibility for this and Friend the comfort he is seeking at this stage, as this take it over completely. relates to a commercial negotiation and a strategic decision for the next SDSR. Aircraft Carrier Cover War Widow Pensions 3. Guy Opperman (Hexham) (Con): What plans he has for maintaining aircraft carrier cover in co-operation 4. Richard Graham (Gloucester) (Con): What his with key allies. [110376] policy is on pensions for war widows. [110545]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence 17. Jason McCartney (Colne Valley) (Con): What his (Peter Luff): The strategic defence and security review policy is on pensions for war widows. [110560] confirmed the Government’s intention to re-introduce a carrier strike capability from around 2020. This capability The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence will be delivered by the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft (Mr Andrew Robathan): War widows have our deepest carrier, operating the STOVL— short take-off and vertical respect for their loss. War widows today span the landing—variant of the joint strike fighter. Until then, generations, from those who have lost their husbands in the Government have accepted that expeditionary air world war two through to those who have died in Iraq power will need to be deployed by other means, which and Afghanistan. I would like to take the opportunity may include agreements with allies regarding overflight to pay tribute to the work of the War Widows’ Association, and basing rights. In addition, the Government are whose tireless help and support is invaluable. Payments considering the scope for us to co-ordinate carrier strike are made through either the armed forces compensation operations with those NATO allies that currently operate scheme or the former war pensions scheme. In addition, aircraft carriers, including the United States, France pensions may be paid through one of the occupational and Italy, both prior to and following the re-introduction armed forces pension schemes. of the United Kingdom’s own capability. Richard Graham: I am grateful to the Minister for his Guy Opperman: Our future aircraft carriers are being reply. My constituent, Iris Thorogood, is an 85-year-old built by our Scottish allies. What happens to the former chairman of the War Widows’ Association, an construction of those carriers if Scotland declares organisation founded in 1971, at a time when war independence and does not contribute to the cost? widows received very little by way of a pension. I am sure that Iris, and indeed the War Widows’ Association, Peter Luff: As a good Unionist, I must emphasise would appreciate confirmation from him that, contrary that the carriers are being built by the United Kingdom, to some rumours being peddled, war widows have received and that many English yards, as well as Scottish yards, the full increase of 5.2% this year, in line with disability are making a fine contribution to these outstanding benefit, and will continue to do so? ships. The best thing that I can say to my hon. Friend is that it is two thirds of a century since the United Mr Robathan: First, I pay tribute to Mrs Thorogood Kingdom built a warship outside the UK—that happened and reassure her about the 5.2% uprating of her pension, during the second world war—so the facts speak for in line with the Department for Work and Pensions themselves. disability benefit. I was very surprised at the recent comments by the shadow Defence Secretary about Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): The Telegraph “veterans’ and war widows’ pensions being frozen year-on-year.”— conservatively says that it is £250 million, but can the [Official Report, 14 May 2012; Vol. 545, c. 265.] Minister say how much the bad decision to proceed That is completely incorrect, and it is a pity that he does with the F-35C cost? Surely this should include the not know a little bit more and is not a little bit better costs of carrier conversion, too. informed of such important issues in his brief.

Peter Luff: I can confirm what my right hon. Friend Jason McCartney: Given the unveiling of the Royal the Secretary of State has said on many occasions: as of Air Force Bomber Command memorial later this month the end of April, we had committed £39 million on to remember the 55,000 airmen who died during the conversion studies and a further £1 million on an air-to-air second world war, does the Minister agree that when we 7 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 8 are talking about war widows’ pensions, we must give considered that such methods would be adequate for a accurate information and not engage in the skulduggery two-year period, and we have concluded that they provide of misleading people about this? sufficient cover for a further period.

Mr Robathan: I certainly do, as I believe I have already London Olympics (Security) made clear. I am proud to be an honorary member of the Bomber Command Association, and I look forward 7. Heidi Alexander (Lewisham East) (Lab): What recent to the opening of that memorial at the end of June. assessment he has made of the armed forces contribution We need to remember the debt that we owe to those to implementation of security plans for the London 2012 55,000 people from Bomber Command who died and to Olympics; and if he will make a statement. [110549] all the others who died in the second world war, as well as to their dependants and their surviving widows. The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr Philip Hammond): The armed forces recently conducted an extensive exercise Maritime Surveillance to test their operational readiness to provide safety and security, in support of the police, during the Olympic 6. Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab): What recent assessment and Paralympic games. The exercise achieved its objectives he has made of the UK’s maritime surveillance capability. and I am confident that we are well placed to deliver [110548] this important role. I am grateful to the hon. Lady for the constructive The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): way in which she engaged with the Army on the air The wide range of assets capable of conducting maritime defence missile site at Blackheath in her constituency surveillance were reviewed during the strategic defence for the exercise, and to her constituents, the overwhelming and security review and decisions were made in the light majority of whom were supportive of it. of our future requirements and the challenging circumstances facing the Government. Due to the financial Heidi Alexander: The Secretary of State mentioned legacy we inherited from the previous Government, the proposal to site surface-to-air missiles on Blackheath including the woeful mismanagement of the Nimrod as part of the Olympic security plan. It is my understanding MRA4 project, we had little choice but to cancel that that a final ministerial decision has yet to be taken. project and make a number of other adjustments to our When will that decision be made, and will the Department force structure. I believe we have the capabilities we be in direct contact with residents who live in close require in this area, but we keep our requirements under proximity to the proposed site to inform them of it? close review against operational circumstances. Should the threats change, we stand ready to respond. Mr Hammond: The hon. Lady is right. We have received the military advice on the outcome of the Ian Lucas: The Government have made a commitment exercise and Ministers will now consider it and make a to additional maritime surveillance with respect to Somalia final decision on the deployment of ground-based air because of the serious maritime threat posed there. defence systems. As you would expect, Mr Speaker, What additional steps are the Government taking to when a decision is taken, an announcement will be support the Prime Minister’s peace process initiative in made first to the House, but I will ensure that the Army Somalia and what steps are they taking on the threat to engages with residents who live in close proximity to the the peace process caused by piracy? site to ensure that they are aware of all the ramifications of any decision to go ahead and deploy.

Nick Harvey: The hon. Gentleman is right to point to Mark Pawsey (Rugby) (Con): Will the Secretary of the importance of the international efforts being made State confirm that, to ensure effective interoperability in Somalia, in which the UK is proud to play a part. between the emergency services and the armed forces, Surveillance is certainly a part of the international all parties involved with Olympic security will use a effort, but the UK did not specifically engage to undertake common communications platform? it—it is done on an international basis, and other allies provide the surveillance capabilities. Mr Hammond: The arrangements for effective command and control will involve military commanders being Mr Russell Brown (Dumfries and Galloway) (Lab): embedded with police gold commanders in their The Minister’s right hon. Friend the Secretary of State headquarters. I cannot give my hon. Friend a guarantee has said that he has balanced the budget, but the lack of that they will use a common communications system, maritime surveillance demonstrates that he can make but the key decisions will be made by people sitting in such a claim only because he has cut the equipment the same room. They will then be passed down the budget so deeply that he has left our nation with a respective chains of command. capability deficit. He cannot deny that we have a capability deficit in terms of maritime surveillance. Rushanara Ali (Bethnal Green and Bow) (Lab): My constituents living in Bow quarter are rightly concerned Nick Harvey: The hon. Gentleman has answered his about the Ministry of Defence’s plans to base surface-to-air own question. If one has had to balance the budget having missiles on their rooftops ahead of the Olympics. I wrote inherited a £38 billion black hole, inevitably certain to the Secretary of State about that more than a month capabilities would have had to be deleted. I remind him ago. When does he intend to respond to my request for that the previous Government were using alternative a meeting to explain the risks to my constituents and methods of providing maritime surveillance. They answer their concerns? The consultation has been very thin. 9 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 10

Mr Hammond: I am not aware of a request from the Mr Andrew Love (Edmonton) (Lab/Co-op): The Minister hon. Lady, but the Army and MOD officials have also has responsibility for forces accommodation. The engaged with a number of Members of Parliament who Government recently announced that they would be have sought a briefing. She is welcome to come to the giving an extra £100 billion, but they forgot to inform Ministry of Defence at any time for a detailed briefing. the public that they were taking away £141 million. There appear to be a very small number of her constituents Armed forces accommodation is the largest single issue who are opposed to the proposal, and there has equally raised in complaints to the authorities. What will the been significant support from other areas. There is no Minister do to address the sorry state of some of our risk to residents of the building. The water tower at armed forces accommodation? Bow quarter was selected on military advice, because it is the right place to locate this particular defensive Mr Robathan: First, I should say that we announced equipment. £100 million extra, not £100 billion, for accommodation? The hon. Gentleman is quite right, but there has been Mrs Helen Grant (Maidstone and The Weald) (Con): no hiding the fact that we have had a three-year pause in What has been done to keep local people informed the amount that we have put into forces accommodation. about the deployment of those assets in their communities He will know why—we inherited the most ghastly financial during the Olympic period? situation. I have talked the matter through with the families federations, and they understand that times are Mr Hammond: The Army has engaged with local very hard. If he does not understand that, he should authorities in the first place, and more recently with read the newspapers. local community groups. We have a standing Army capability to go out and engage with any groups that Sir Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): May I remind the want to be engaged with, and to brief Members of Minister of the armed forces covenant in respect of Parliament. I am very happy to brief any Members who housing? In his discussions with his colleagues in the are affected by the proposals. Department for Communities and Local Government has he been advised of when the mandatory guidance Social Housing will be issued to councils on that matter? Will there be more money in significant areas of garrison towns? 9. David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): What Mr Robathan: We are discussing the matter. I am not recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of sure that mandatory guidance will be given, but there State for Communities and Local Government on access will be guidance on giving preference to those leaving to social housing for former members of the armed the armed forces. We are very concerned about the forces. [110551] matter, and we are continuing to uprate kitchens, bathrooms and so on with the money that we are spending. I know The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence that the hon. Gentleman is as well aware as I am of the (Mr Andrew Robathan): I regularly speak with the Minister difficult situation in which we find ourselves. for Housing and Local Government and raise such issues as are necessary. My hon. Friend will be aware of Mr Jim Murphy (East Renfrewshire) (Lab): I want to the consultation recently undertaken by the Housing raise an issue about housing on which I am sure there Minister on what more can be done, and particularly on will be all-party consensus. Recent research by Lord statutory guidance on giving precedence in social housing Ashcroft showed that a third of junior ranks in the lists to service personnel with local connections when Army and more than a quarter of those from the armed they leave the services. forces who have applied have been refused a mortgage, loan or credit card in the past five years. Although David Mowat: The Minister will be aware of the individual circumstances can always lead to a refusal, recent changes to the housing allowance, which mean that number is far too high. Will the Minister agree to that those aged between 25 and 35 will have to share. cross-party talks, involving service charities and the Exemptions have been announced for those living in military, on how to deal with this and other issues of homeless hostels and for certain offenders. Will the discrimination raised in the report? Government consider also exempting servicemen returning from active duty, particularly those who may be at risk Mr Robathan: Of course, I am very happy to indulge of redundancy? in cross-party talks on such matters. I talk to service charities the whole time about them. For instance, the Mr Robathan: My hon. Friend will know that Lancashire right hon. Gentleman talks about mortgages being refused, county council’s Councillor France has expressed his but that is one thing that we have put right. Although I concern, and I am grateful to my hon. Friend for also am not blaming the previous Government in particular, doing so. We obviously always keep an eye on the it is a fact that British Forces Post Office addresses were matter, but the changes to the shared accommodation not accepted by mortgage companies. We have now said rate were discussed between Ministry of Defence officials that they are to be accepted—[Interruption.] I hear the and Department for Communities and Local Government hon. Member for North Durham (Mr Jones) saying officials prior to the announcement in June 2010. We from a sedentary position that that is not true, but that will take a look at how we can best serve our personnel, was what I was told by all the service charities and but those who are exempted are those who are considered servicemen to whom I spoke. to be in difficult circumstances, such as people leaving prison. I do not think our personnel leaving the armed Mr Jim Murphy: For the purpose of this question, forces should be equated with, for instance, those leaving I shall set aside the partisanship and ask the Minister prison. about the issue again. When one in five members of our 11 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 12 forces is shouted at in the street and almost as many are Defence Budget refused service in a pub, hotel or elsewhere, we must all go further. There are sensible examples of legal protections 10. Rebecca Harris (Castle Point) (Con): What assessment for other specific groups that go much further than the he has made of the effect on the armed forces of a military covenant to protect against discrimination, balanced defence budget. [110552] harassment or abuse. In the light of the research, in the build-up to Armed Forces day and as part of these indulged in—or indulgent—all-party talks, will the Minister 16. Nicky Morgan (Loughborough) (Con): What consider new legal protections for those who keep our assessment he has made of the effect on the armed forces country safe? of a balanced defence budget. [110559]

Mr Speaker: The Minister should make particular The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr Philip Hammond): reference to access to social housing. A balanced budget gives our armed forces confidence that once a project is in the programme, it is real, Mr Robathan: I hear your strictures, Mr Speaker. I funded and will be delivered, so that they can plan with am not sure whether new laws are required. What is certainty. The balanced budget is a firm baseline for the required is a greater respect for our armed forces and transformation to an armed forces that are smaller, but the truth is that most people in this country view our that will be adaptable, agile, well equipped with the best armed forces with great pride, which the four out of five technology and supported by a Ministry of Defence people who are not subject to any form of abuse will that is re-focused around their needs. recognise. Now, I notice people wearing uniform in the streets much more often, for instance. Once upon a Rebecca Harris: Will the Secretary of State give me time, that was actively discouraged because one did get a further assurance that in future we will never again abuse, typically from long-haired left-wing students, but return to an unbalanced defence budget, which saw us that was just when I was young. buying very expensive, high-ticket items while our brave personnel were going without some of the basic equipment Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): On the question they needed in theatre on the ground? of social housing, a problem that has come up in my constituency is what happens when someone who has been in the armed forces returns to an area from which Mr Hammond: My hon. Friend has put her finger on they have been away. They want social housing, but the the problem: in the past we had an armed forces budget local council has a regulation that people cannot get that was out of kilter, and were trying to support armed such housing unless they have been there in the past forces that were not properly resourced. The consequences year. Is that something we can put right? were inadequate protective equipment and inadequate military equipment to do the job they were being asked Mr Robathan: It is, and that is what my right hon. to carry out. I believe that we have an absolute moral Friend the Minister for Housing and Local Government responsibility, when we ask people to put themselves in is talking about. When someone has been away for 10 harm’s way, to equip them with the kit that they need to years —perhaps they have been abroad, serving in Germany be as safe as possible in doing that. with the Army—they should have the opportunity to register for a house and to get precedence in the area Nicky Morgan: My right hon. Friend will be aware where they lived for all their life before joining the that we live in a very uncertain world, in which new armed forces to serve their country. threats are evolving—we have already heard mention of cyber-security threats. Is he convinced that now that we Ms Gisela Stuart (Birmingham, Edgbaston) (Lab): have a balanced budget, there is scope to tackle these Birmingham city council was probably the first specifically new threats and to provide the kit that our armed forces to ring-fence new social housing provisions for ex-members need? of the armed forces. Is the Minister aware of any other councils in the west midlands following suit, as, although Mr Hammond: As my hon. Friend says, we live in a what Birmingham does is magnificent, it is not sufficient? very uncertain world and the threats are changing, and technology also is changing very rapidly. Precisely for Mr Robathan: Here I call on the help of my civil that reason, we have kept £8 billion-worth of headroom servants, because I am not aware of any other councils in the equipment programme, rather than allocating in the west midlands following suit. I applaud Birmingham every last penny of it, as was the practice in the past. city council—under, I think, Conservative administration Too often in the past, we have had to cancel or abandon —for putting this to one side—[Interruption.] Then expensive commitments in order to respond to changes under Conservative administration. I applaud the council in technology or threat. We should not be in that and, as the hon. Lady will know, we are encouraging the position in future. community covenants that lead to such activities. Derek Twigg (Halton) (Lab): In terms of the budget Mr Speaker: I am sure that the Minister will write to and the impact on armed forces personnel, what is the the hon. Lady with further and better particulars when Secretary of State’s policy on service personnel who he has consulted his officials. have lost a limb or have other disabilities staying in the armed forces? Has an across-the-board decision been Mr Robathan: Of course. taken that anyone who has lost a limb will have to leave, or is it down to individual circumstances or commanding Mr Speaker: We are grateful to the Minister. officers? 13 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 14

Mr Hammond: It is down to individual circumstances. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence We have given a clear commitment that as long as (Peter Luff): Innovation ensures that we are able to someone who has suffered injuries on active service is in access and deliver technology into our systems and the process of treatment or rehabilitation, where it is equipment to provide continuing operational advantage appropriate for them to remain in the Army, they will so to our armed forces. That is why our recent White remain. Once they have completed the rehabilitation Paper, “National Security Through Technology”, process, we will do our very best to find positions that highlighted the importance of investment in science and they can fill in the Army. Many service people who technology. It also recognised the contribution of suffer disabilities as a result of their service have been commercial investment in developing new technologies. found positions that they can continue to hold down in Using open competition in defence acquisition ensures the Army, but we cannot give a guarantee that nobody that we are able to deliver the best and most innovative will be medically discharged after they have completed capabilities at an affordable price. In addition, the success the rehabilitation process. of the Centre for Defence Enterprise in bringing through suppliers new to defence, particularly small and medium- Mr Kevan Jones (North Durham) (Lab): Given that sized businesses, which are important sources of innovation, the Secretary of State’s statement about supposedly led to our decision to broaden the centre’s remit, including balancing the defence budget relates only to the 45% of the mentoring of smaller companies. the budget spent on equipment, how will his announcements this week of compulsory redundancies in the armed Chi Onwurah: During the recess, BAE Systems forces affect the other, unaccounted for, 55% of the announced the closure of the historic Scotswood road budget? When can we expect the details of how he has site in Newcastle, with the loss of more than 300 jobs. balanced the rest of the budget? This brings to an end a 165-year history of skilled engineering, the longest continuous site of tank manufacture Mr Hammond: I am not sure that the hon. Gentleman anywhere in the world, as well as bringing great distress was here when I made my statement, but he is completely and uncertainty to my constituents. Does the Minister wrong; my statement related to the whole budget, not agree that refusing to take into account the wider economic simply the equipment plan. As he will know, the implications of defence procurement undermines not announcement of a reduction in the size of our armed only innovation, but jobs and communities across the forces was made last year. We are now making a series country? Will he agree to meet me and a delegation of tranches of redundancy announcements, of which from BAE to see what can be done to save the site? the one due tomorrow will be the last for the Royal Peter Luff: I have enormous respect for the hon. Navy and the RAF, to get us eventually to armed forces Lady’s expression of concern for her constituents, and I of the size specified for Future Force 2020 in the strategic pay tribute to the work that those people have done over defence and security review. many years to support the armed forces. However, it is not true to say that the policy that she describes is the Mr James Arbuthnot (North East Hampshire) (Con): cause of the problem. The problem is that BAE Systems The news that the defence budget is balanced is obviously has not won contracts at this site. Meanwhile, the very welcome, but there will inevitably be a certain Warrior sustainment programme, the Scout SV programme, amount of scepticism about it. Does my right hon. the Foxhound programme and the integration of the Friend accept that if he is to dispel that scepticism, the urgent operational requirements continue around the sooner he can provide absolute clarity about exactly United Kingdom, generating thousands of highly skilled how he has balanced the budget, and exactly how the and important jobs. I very much regret that BAE Systems £38 billion black hole that Defence Ministers referred has been uncompetitive, but it is not the fault of the to is calculated, the better? Government. The company must answer why it could not compete successfully for contracts. Mr Hammond: I accept that there will be a certain amount of scepticism. In relation to the equipment Departmental Budget plan, there are two parts to the answer. First, the armed forces committee has confirmed that the equipment 12. Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab): What budget plan that we set out and funded does deliver the capabilities his Department will require after 2015; and if he will required for Future Force 2020. Secondly, we have make a statement. [110555] submitted the programme to the National Audit Office for review, and we will publish the result of that review The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr Philip Hammond): in due course. In respect of the 55% of the annual The budget after 2015 will be set at the next spending budget that is not taken up by the equipment plan, the review. Our current planning assumption is for a flat proof of the pudding is in the eating, and Members in real-terms budget settlement overall, with a 1% real-terms all parts of the House will look to see a defence budget increase per annum in the equipment and support budget, that comes in within the spending plan total, as they did as agreed with the Treasury. in 2011-12. Chris Ruane: When will the Secretary of State publish the National Audit Office report on the budget and Departmental Procurement equipment programme? Such impartial information is needed by us as MPs, the public and the defence industry. 11. Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) (Lab): What progress he has made on promoting Mr Hammond: I completely accept that, and as I said innovation through his Department’s procurement to my right hon. Friend the Member for North East processes. [110553] Hampshire (Mr Arbuthnot) a few moments ago, I am 15 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 16 aware of the fact that the degree of confidentiality Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) (SNP): around the defence budget invites scepticism when such Scotland also has a disproportionate underspend. The announcements are made. As soon as we have the report Scottish Government and the Scottish National party from the National Audit Office, we will publish it. are, of course, very much in favour of continuing defence procurement co-operation, regardless of the constitutional Scottish Independence (Royal Navy Construction situation. We believe that it is good for jobs, for Projects) manufacturers and for the taxpayers of both Scotland and England. With so many defence sector jobs in England dependent on Scottish taxpayers’ contributions 13. Mr Iain McKenzie (Inverclyde) (Lab): What towards procurement, why do not the UK Government assessment he has made of the potential effect of simply concede that it would make perfect sense to independence for Scotland on Royal Navy construction continue with procurement co-operation if the Scottish projects. [110556] people decide that they want defence decisions to be made in Scotland itself? The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): The defence industry in Scotland, particularly shipbuilding, Nick Harvey: Defence procurement co-operation of plays a key role in equipping and supporting the UK the sort the hon. Gentleman describes would completely armed forces. Defence contracts sustain thousands of contravene EU competition rules. We are allowed to skilled jobs and generate billions of pounds for the procure non-warlike stores only on an open and competitive economy of Scotland. The Government greatly value basis, so the defence industry in Scotland would have to the highly skilled work force in Scotland. Although the compete with South Korea, or whichever other country Government are not making plans for separation, as we it might be, for future defence contracts. are confident that the Scottish people will continue to support the Union in any referendum, it is worth noting that the UK has not had a complex warship built Regimental Structure (Wales) outside the UK since world war two. Were we to do so in the future, companies in a separate Scotland would, 14. Mr David Hanson (Delyn) (Lab): What recent of course, be free to compete for those contracts, along discussions he has had on the structure of regiments in with international bidders. However, any exemption Wales. [110557] from EU rules governing public procurement contracts would apply only to warships ordered from our own The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): My national yards. right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has engaged in a number of discussions about the structure of regiments Mr McKenzie: The Minister has made very clear the in Wales and, indeed, those elsewhere in the United position of Scottish shipyards, should separation for Kingdom as part of the study into the Army’s future Scotland take place. Can he clarify the position for force structure. suppliers of fixtures and fittings based in Scotland when applying for contracts, if those contracts are given to English shipyards? Mr Hanson: In his speech last Thursday the Secretary of State said that regional identity and recruitment capability were important criteria. Does the Minister Nick Harvey: The way the EU rules work is that if a accept that 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards—the Welsh Government declare something to be warlike, they can cavalry—fulfils both criteria and, therefore, every effort claim an exemption from the EU competition rules on should be taken to ensure that the regiment is saved? the basis of national security. In the case that the hon. Gentleman describes, those contracts would be non-warlike and would be subject to normal competitive rules. Scottish Nick Harvey: Any decisions made will respect regional companies would have to win against global competition. and national identities, but they will have to be made on objective criteria, including geographical considerations Sir Menzies Campbell (North East Fife) (LD): Can that link closely to recruitment and the need to get the the Minister confirm that in the allocation of naval right balance of capabilities and the maximum operational contracts and defence expenditure in general in Scotland, output. he will give no credence whatsoever to the notion that such expenditure should be governed by something Mark Lancaster (Milton Keynes North) (Con): We approaching the Barnett formula—an idea which is as accept that there will be a reduction in the number of naive as it is risible, not least because it ignores strategic regiments, but given that any artificial increase or staying objectives, fails to take account of differing geographical the same of Scottish regiments, some of which were levels of threat, and of course, from Scotland’s point of recruited at only 78%, will have a knock-on effect view, ignores the location of industrial capacity? throughout the United Kingdom, does the Minister think that the shadow Secretary of State for Defence Nick Harvey: I can confirm for my right hon. and consulted his Welsh and English colleagues on the likely learned Friend that the Government would be governed effect of keeping an artificial number of Scottish regiments? by no such notion. Scotland does well out of defence at the moment; it has one of the UK’s three naval bases, it Nick Harvey: My hon. Friend is quite right; if we are will have one of the UK’s three RAF operating bases to see a reduction in the regular Army from 102,000 to and it has an Army brigade. Those who would seek to 82,000, it is inevitably that some units will be disbanded. change that situation should spell out what it would The criteria by which those units are selected must be look like under a separate arrangement. objective, as I have described. They must recognise the 17 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 18 recruitment strength and the right balance of capabilities. The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr Philip Hammond): It would not be right for favour to be shown to one part My departmental responsibilities are to ensure that our of the country at the expense of another. country is properly defended now and in the future through the delivery of the military tasks for which the Nia Griffith (Llanelli) (Lab): The Minister will be Ministry of Defence is mandated; that our service personnel well aware that Wales provides an above-average number have the right equipment and training to allow them to of Army recruits, compared with the UK average, and succeed in the military tasks; and that we honour our of the tremendous symbolic importance of having a commitments under the armed forces covenant. In order distinctive Welsh identity when the regiments are redrawn, to discharge those duties, I have worked with the chiefs so will he take both factors into consideration when of staff and my senior officials to ensure that the making his decision? Department has a properly balanced budget and a force generation strategy and a defence equipment programme Nick Harvey: As I have said, the criteria that will be that are affordable and sustainable in the medium to used will be objective, and certainly the contribution of long term, details of which I have already announced to Welsh members of the armed forces is hugely recognised the House. and respected. Graham Evans: Will my right hon. Friend join me in congratulating the members of the armed forces who Nuclear Deterrent played such a splendid role in the magnificent diamond jubilee celebrations, remembering that many of those 15. Priti Patel (Witham) (Con): How much his men and women fought bravely in Afghanistan until Department plans to spend on renewing the nuclear recently? deterrent in the remainder of the spending period. [110558] Mr Hammond: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. The relationship between the monarch and the armed The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence forces is historic and important. Her Majesty the Queen, (Peter Luff): The Ministry of Defence plans to invest as head of the armed forces, has maintained and around £1.4 billion between now and 2014-15 on the strengthened those links throughout her 60-year reign, assessment phase of the successor submarine programme, and she enjoys the deep loyalty and affection of her as announced to Parliament in May last year. The total armed forces. The diamond jubilee celebrations were a cost of the assessment phase, including long-lead items, welcome opportunity for the armed forces to demonstrate will be around £3 billion by the time it is complete in the affection and esteem that they have for Her Majesty. 2016-17. Without that investment, it could not be guaranteed that a successor submarine would be available Gemma Doyle (West Dunbartonshire) (Lab/Co-op): in time to ensure a continuous at-sea deterrent. May I bring to the attention of the Secretary of State the comments of the head of Army manning, who said Priti Patel: With unfriendly regimes advancing their that the 4,100 soldiers, sailors airmen and women facing development of nuclear weaponry, will the Minister redundancy this week should transfer to vacancies in give an assurance that the United Kingdom will be the Army, Navy or Air Force? Does the right hon. defended by the most advanced and effective nuclear Gentleman appreciate how angry this comment has deterrent? made those who are being rewarded for their years of service with a P45, and can he confirm how many Peter Luff: I can assure my hon. Friend that we vacancies are currently available? understand the vital importance of keeping the minimum effective nuclear deterrent for precisely the reasons she The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence sets out so eloquently. (Mr Andrew Robathan): I have read the article by the head of Army manning, and I am surprised at the newspapers’ John Woodcock (Barrow and Furness) (Lab/Co-op): interpretation of it. I recommend that the hon. Lady The decision finally to go ahead is welcomed on the also reads it. Opposition side of the House, and indeed in my Those people who are being made redundant and constituency, but the previous Secretary of State put the who wish to apply for another job are, of course, cost of delaying at between £1.2 billion and £1.4 billion, encouraged so to do, be it in the Army, the Air Force or so is the new Secretary of State’s estimate of the extra the Royal Navy. When I served in the Army, there were cost of delay higher, lower or about the same? people from the Air Force and from the Navy who had transferred and joined—and some from the foreign Peter Luff: I must be honest and say that I am not legion as well. sure what delay the hon. Gentleman refers to, so I suggest that we have a conversation about it later. T2. [110568] Mr Marcus Jones (Nuneaton) (Con): I welcome the MOD’s recent award of a £350 million Mr Speaker: That is a refreshing outbreak of splendid contract to maintain the Royal Air Force’s Hercules candour, on which we congratulate the Minister. aircraft, which will sustain 500 UK jobs. Can the Minister say what other steps are being taken to support the UK defence industry? Topical Questions The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence T1. [110567] Graham Evans (Weaver Vale) (Con): If he (Peter Luff): Absolutely I can. I too welcome the award will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. of the Hercules integrated operational support contract, 19 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 20 which will save the MOD £170 million by replacing infantry will be cut. For the avoidance of doubt, will he several short-term contracts with one overarching contract. reassure the House that one of those criteria is not the It is another example of the policy that we set out in our upcoming Scottish referendum? recent White Paper, with a list of measures to improve the lot of the British defence industry, including a Nick Harvey: To recap, the criteria that will be used £160 billion equipment programme, strong support for are the geographical footprint for recruitment, the right responsible exports, support for small and medium-sized balance of capabilities, and the maximum operational enterprises in the defence sector and strong support for output, not political considerations between different the previously declining science and technology budget. parts of the UK.

T8. [110575] Mrs Mary Glindon (North Tyneside) Mr Ian Davidson (Glasgow South West) (Lab/Co-op): (Lab): When Sir John Holmes reports on his review of Will the relevant Minister tell me what will happen to the medals system, is the Prime Minister likely to keep Fijians and other Commonwealth citizens serving in his pre-election promise so that after 67 years the surviving Scottish regiments, and indeed to the Scottish regiments Arctic convoy veterans at last receive a British medal in themselves, in the event of separation? acknowledgement of their brave service? Mr Robathan: The hon. Gentleman asks a very good Mr Philip Hammond: Perhaps I should be clear that hypothetical question to which I do not have an answer, the remit of the medals review is to look at the process but I very much hope that the good people of Scotland and at the factors that are taken into account when will show some sense in a referendum. making such decisions. So the review will look at the framework and the basis on which decisions are taken, T6. [110572] Mr Andrew Turner (Isle of Wight) (Con): and it will then be for individual decisions to be reviewed May I welcome the arrival of the new C-17 aircraft, within any new framework that is put in place. which plays a vital role in transporting our troops and our equipment, and ask the Secretary of State to add T3. [110569] Mr John Baron (Basildon and Billericay) to that? (Con): Defence diplomacy is a key component of Britain’s soft power capability. What steps are the Government Mr Philip Hammond: Yes.Iamhappytosaytomy taking to ensure that defence diplomacy is therefore at hon. Friend that I went to Brize Norton to see the new the forefront of our foreign and defence policy, and will C-17 aircraft a couple of weeks ago, just a few days the Minister highlight some of the programmes currently after it had been delivered. This aircraft will reinforce being pursued in the MOD? the vital, strategically important air bridge with Afghanistan, The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence which is especially important at a time when the ground (Mr Gerald Howarth): May I say, with all honesty, that lines of communication through Pakistan are closed. I am most grateful to my hon. Friend for his question? I In the longer term, the C-17 represents a step change know that he takes a very keen interest in the issue, and in our capability to support operations, including he is absolutely right to emphasise the importance of humanitarian operations and disaster relief, and, very defence diplomacy as a very cost-effective and vital part importantly, to support the aero-medical evacuation of of our armoury. It is one of seven military tasks set out wounded personnel back to the United Kingdom. in our 2010 defence review, and together with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office we are now finalising a Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): Given that there detailed defence engagement strategy. That will set out is clearly concern on both sides of the House, may I the contributions made by, for example, defence training, press the Minister on when we will get a full statement defence attachés, defence advisory teams, de-mining to Parliament on the future of our regiments, particularly and, as in Pakistan, the help to develop a centre of the well-loved Welsh Cavalry? excellence for counter-IED capability, to which of course I add defence exports and the role played by Ministers Mr Hammond: The Chief of the General Staff is in and senior military officials in travelling throughout the the final stages of an analytical review of recruiting world in support of defence diplomacy—I having visited demographics and manning across the Army, looking no fewer than 23 countries in the past two years. at the future needs of the Army but also at the very important historical threads that run through the Army. Lindsay Roy: How will the Minister protect the rich As soon as we have completed that exercise, I will make legacy of the Scottish regiments, particularly in respecting a statement to the House, and I confidently anticipate the historical identities and cap badges of proud battalions that that will be before the summer recess. such as the Black Watch, in any military cutbacks? T7. [110574] James Morris (Halesowen and Rowley The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): Regis) (Con): Encouraging strong leadership in our The Prime Minister, the Defence Secretary and I have armed forces is vital to the development of an agile all made it clear that the traditions of the Scottish fighting force, so will the Secretary of State join me in regiments will be respected. There is not, and never has welcoming the recent appointments of Commander been at any stage, a plan to do away with those identities, Sarah West and Commander Sue Moore, both of which which will remain in the long term as part of the Army are major milestones demonstrating the achievements in Scotland. of women in the armed forces?

T4. [110570] David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): Mr Robathan: The House will know that Commander This afternoon we have heard the Minister speak of the West has been appointed as the first woman commander objective criteria that will be used to determine how the of a major warship, HMS Portland, and that Commander 21 Oral Answers11 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 22

Moore has become the first woman to command 1st Patrol We are pushing it forward and will find the resources. I Boat Squadron. Both appointments were made entirely am delighted that my hon. Friend gained from the cadet on merit, and they are very well deserved. I think that experience and learned about things such as integrity, the whole House would wish to congratulate those two teamwork and leadership. I, too, was a cadet, but I will women and all others who come into such positions of leave it to the House to determine whether my character authority. improved.

Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) (Lab): Elizabeth Truss (South West Norfolk) (Con): Given In response to my earlier question about the closure of that the Government are proceeding with the short BAE Systems on Scotswood road, the Minister seemed take-off and vertical landing variant of the joint strike to prefer to criticise BAE Systems, and therefore some fighter, will the Secretary of State say when a decision of my constituents, than to answer my request for a will be made about the basing of that aircraft? Does he meeting to see whether we could find a way to save these agree that RAF Marham would be an ideal location jobs. because of its engineering facilities and its proximity to the US base at Lakenheath? Peter Luff: It is always a pleasure to meet the hon. Lady. I extended an invitation to her to discuss another subject, but she did not respond. I am always happy to Mr Philip Hammond: My hon. Friend is nothing if meet her—[Interruption.] On the strictly professional not diligent in promoting the case for RAF Marham to matter of innovation. I intended no criticism of her be the home base of the STOVL JSF aircraft. We are constituents whatever. They have done a first-rate job. well aware of its engineering capabilities and of its However, the other companies put in lower, better value proximity to USAF Lakenheath, where F-35s are likely bids and so won the contracts. That is the problem, and to be based. The decision does not need to be taken yet, there is no answer to that. and it will not be taken until it needs to be.

Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) (LD): An effective Stephen Gilbert (St Austell and Newquay) (LD): In and trusted Afghan national army is key to a smooth the United States, the rate of suicides by active military transition. When I visited Afghanistan last year, I heard personnel is almost one per day, which is higher than that although recruitment is going well, attrition remains the rate of combat casualties. What are the equivalent a challenge. Will the Secretary of State look into the figures for the three UK armed services? fact that attrition rates are not monitored for the different ethnic groups, so we do not know whether there is more of a problem with the Tajiks, Pashtuns, Hazaras or Mr Robathan: Any suicide is a tragedy. The UK has Uzbeks? That information would surely be useful in much lower rates of suicide in the armed forces than the addressing the problem. US. Research is being done on the matter as we speak, in particular by Professor Simon Wessely of King’s Mr Philip Hammond: I am grateful to the hon. Lady. College hospital. Although we remain concerned, for My understanding, although I will have to check this, is people over 25, service in the armed forces means, that attrition is measured by ethnic group in the army. curiously, that one is less likely to commit suicide than I will take the matter up with my Afghan counterpart others. I am happy to discuss the matter further with on my next visit and let the hon. Lady know what I the hon. Gentleman. find out. Mr Speaker: Last but not least, Mr Duncan Hames. John Woodcock (Barrow and Furness) (Lab/Co-op): How is the review into the alternatives to Trident going? Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): Next month, Nick Harvey: The review is making good progress the UK will join other Governments at the United and is on target to report to the Prime Minister and the Nations to negotiate and agree an international arms Deputy Prime Minister at the end of the year, as was trade treaty. We are often told that Britain’s arms controls announced by the previous Defence Secretary. are among the strictest that one will find anywhere. Does the Minister recognise the benefit to Britain and James Wharton (Stockton South) (Con): The cadet the world of reaching a strong agreement with as many forces provide great opportunities for young people to countries as possible, even if certain countries opt not train in teamwork, leadership and discipline. I very to become signatories at this time? much enjoyed being a cadet when I was at school. What is the Department doing to ensure that more young Nick Harvey: The UK is strongly committed to an people avail themselves of those wonderful opportunities? arms trade treaty and is pushing for it to be as broad and effective as possible. We are encouraged by the fact Mr Robathan: We are very keen to encourage more that certain countries that we did not think would be cadet forces. Indeed, I had a joint conference with the supportive are showing more encouraging signs as we schools commissioner at the end of April on this matter. get near to the negotiations. 23 11 JUNE 2012 Changes to the Budget 24

Changes to the Budget Rachel Reeves: I thank the Minister for his answer, but regret the absence of both the Chancellor and the Chief Secretary to explain this series of U-turns. 3.34 pm This statement leaves a number of questions unanswered. On 16 April, the Exchequer Secretary told the House: Rachel Reeves (Leeds West) (Lab) (Urgent Question): “The same approach should apply to mobile caravans as to To ask the Chief Secretary to the Treasury to make a static, non-residential caravans, and to a hot pie served in a fish statement on the changes that the Treasury has made and shop and one served in a bakery.”—[Official Report, 16 April to the Budget, which was presented to this House on 2012; Vol. 543, c. 130.] 21 March 2012. On 12 April, in relation to the proposed cap on income tax relief for charitable donations, he said: Hon. Members: Where’s the Chancellor? “The policy that we’ve announced is a sensible one.” What new evidence has come to light since then and Mr Speaker: Order. The Ministers who appear are chosen during the recess that has led the Government to change by the Government, and it is not for me to explain that their mind? The reality is that the facts have not changed. choice. Members ask, “Where’s the Chancellor?” The This is a Government who do not like to be held to Chancellor is appearing before the Leveson inquiry, as account for their mistakes. The Minister has tried to Members know perfectly well. We welcome Minister make a virtue out of the Government’s abandonment of Gauke. policies that prove to be unpopular and unworkable by saying that they are listening. However, failing to do the The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury (Mr David necessary work on a policy before announcing it and Gauke): The Budget supports working families and then sneaking out a reversal when they hoped no one re-establishes the UK’s reputation as a leading place to was looking is not consultation—it is total incompetence. do business. It continues to deal with the record peacetime Is it not the truth that this Government were so desperate deficit that we inherited, so that the state no longer for money-making measures that they took from whomever borrows £1 in £4 it spends, as it did when we came to they thought they could, hoping to get away with it? office. The result: a total and utter shambles of a Budget. The Budget contained 282 measures. Having said The mistakes that are still in the Budget are, however, that we would consult on some of its measures, we have the worst ones of all: a tax cut for millionaires while made changes to three. On VAT for hot food, it is right asking millions to pay more, and no plan for the jobs to end anomalies and ensure that VAT is applied fairly and growth that we desperately need to get our economy between businesses. Where fish and chip shops had to back on track and our deficit down. As the Minister charge VAT, supermarkets selling the same products did and his colleagues are making such a virtue of listening not. Having consulted, we have revised the relevant tests and of their readiness to change course and make the to ensure that, for example, bakers cooking hot savoury occasional U-turn, perhaps now they will listen—to food that is left to cool are not caught in the changes. the millions of pensioners hit by the granny tax; to the millions of families hit by cuts to their tax credits; to the On VAT for static holiday caravans, we have listened 1 million young people out of work; to the businesses to hon. Members, who argued that static caravans should struggling to break even; and to everyone in this country be treated more akin to second homes and not like suffering from the double-dip recession made in Downing touring caravans. Given that static holiday vans fall in a street and crying out—[Interruption.] grey area between residential properties and temporary holiday accommodation, and given the relevant tax Mr Speaker: Order. The House needs to calm down, regimes that apply to them, a 5% rate of VAT is a fair on both sides. I remind the shadow Chief Secretary to compromise. the Treasury that the narrow focus of the question On tax reliefs, we continue to think that the system covers changes to the announced policy. I know that she we inherited—which allows the wealthiest to pay the will concentrate on that narrow matter, as this is not a least tax, meaning that cleaners can pay a higher rate Second Reading debate on the Budget. than their bosses—is unfair. We will therefore move to cap reliefs to ensure that this is addressed. However, Rachel Reeves: Given the number of U-turns that the having engaged with the sector, we will exclude reliefs Government have made in the past two weeks, it is relating to charitable giving from the cap. difficult to know where to start. Will they now change These changes are small in the context of a Budget course on the biggest mistakes in the Budget—cutting that lowered tax by £170 for 24 million people. The tax credits for working families, the granny tax and amounts concerned are tiny compared with the total cutting tax for millionaires while asking ordinary people tax changes announced in the Budget—in monetary to pay more? The country is crying out for the Government terms, less than 2% of the Budget changes and 0.0002% to change course and to get a grip on their policies, of total receipts. The Budget continues to have a neutral which dug us into this hole and this recession. impact on the public finances, and we remain on track to tackle the unprecedented debt and deficit we inherited. Mr Gauke: The hon. Lady says that the Government This is a Budget that improves the country’s competitiveness were desperate for money-making measures. Why does by cutting the top rate of tax, reduces corporation tax she think we needed such measures? She might have to give the UK the most competitive rate in the G20, noticed that her party left the biggest peacetime deficit and rewards and supports hard-working families by we have ever faced. The extraordinary thing about the helping to take 2 million people out of income tax Labour party is that it always believes that there is a altogether. magic money tree that we can get money from. I am 25 Changes to the Budget11 JUNE 2012 Changes to the Budget 26 afraid, however, that we have to take steps to reduce Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab): The Minister the deficit. Even with these changes, we remain on the did not mention the reverse on VAT for listed places of course that we set out. This was a fiscally neutral worship. My constituency has the oldest Baptist church Budget, and we are not taking risks with the public and the oldest Methodist church, so do the changes finances, which is the U-turn that the Opposition want announced by the Government on listed places of worship us to take. apply only to the Church of England or to all The hon. Lady asked how a Budget could be changed denominations? and why we had departed from what it set out to do. I should like to remind the House what happened four Mr Gauke: They apply to all denominations, but to years ago. In 2007, the then Chancellor of the Exchequer provide further clarity we made it clear that we would announced the doubling of the 10p rate. A year later, change the level of grant available under the listed his successor had to come to the House—not in a places of worship scheme to reflect the need; after Budget, but weeks later—and set out additional tax consultation with the Churches, we have increased that cuts of over £3 billion. They had got their policy wrong number, but there is no change to the tax law relating to and they had destroyed their credibility by doubling the VAT for listed places of worship. income tax rate for the poorest earners in this country. That is an example of a Budget shambles. Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) (LD): Let me reassure the Minister that Liberal Democrats Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): The Government welcome the change both to the pasty tax and the should not apologise for making these U-turns. This is caravan tax. [Interruption.] We would also have liked a parliamentary democracy at work. It is because Members third change—to keep the top rate of income tax, but of this House argued strongly for changes in the Budget we did not win that argument. Will the Minister join me that such changes have occurred. Let us contrast that and make sure that all Ministers turn up the volume— with what happened under the last Government. When [Interruption.] their own Back Benchers asked for changes, the Government would not agree to them. This Government should be Mr Speaker: Order. This is most discourteous. We must proud of these changes; they should not apologise. hear the voice of Bermondsey and Old Southwark— Mr Simon Hughes. Mr Gauke: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his characteristically helpful intervention. Simon Hughes: Will the Minister ensure that all Ministers turn up the volume to get over the central message of Stephen Timms (East Ham) (Lab): The Minister is the Budget, which is that over 20 million pay less tax now telling us that the Government do not need the and millions pay no tax at all? Clearly, some people money that would have been raised by the measures have not heard it yet. that he has scrapped, so why were they announced in the first place? Mr Gauke: This coalition Government are proud of the fact that we are taking 2 million people out of Mr Gauke: Let us put this into context. In the last income tax and cutting the tax for 24 million basic rate year of the forecast period, the Budget measures that taxpayers. we announced in March would have resulted in an additional £1.14 billion for the Exchequer. As a consequence of these changes, that figure will now be £1 billion. Several hon. Members rose— These are relatively small items, but we have listened to the specific cases that have been made on the three Mr Speaker: Let me remind the House that the urgent elements. We had already made it clear that we wanted question relates to the subject of changes made by the to consult carefully with charities and philanthropists Treasury to the Budget presented to the House on on one of them. We have listened to the arguments and 21 March. Questioning must be focused on that narrow we have made changes. In the overall scope of the terrain. I know that in that respect we can rely on public finances, however, they will not make a significant Mr Stewart Hosie. difference. Stewart Hosie (Dundee East) (SNP): The Minister Several hon. Members rose— said that these U-turns, however welcome, would be neutral in terms of the Budget, so will he confirm that Mr Speaker: Accommodating the interests of colleagues by the time we get to 2016-17 the Government will still will require brevity, to be exemplified by Mr Jacob take out of the economy £155 billion a year in tax Rees-Mogg. increases and service cuts?

Jacob Rees-Mogg (North East Somerset) (Con): Does Mr Dennis Skinner (Bolsover) (Lab): Whatever happened the Minister agree that the real things that must not be to independence? changed are a tight fiscal policy and a loose money policy? There is no alternative. Mr Gauke: The Government remain committed to their deficit reduction programme. As pointed out by Mr Gauke: My hon. Friend is absolutely right: this the hon. Member for Bolsover (Mr Skinner), the hon. Government, in contrast to the Labour party, remain Gentleman presumably thinks that Scotland will pursue committed to getting the public finances under control. a different approach by that time. 27 Changes to the Budget11 JUNE 2012 Changes to the Budget 28

Mel Stride (Central Devon) (Con): May I pass on a good, but he is absolutely right to ask the Government huge thank you to the Chancellor and to the Minister to continue to focus on the big issues that the country from Pathfinder Park Homes, a manufacturer of static faces, and we will do so. caravans in my constituency, which is delighted with the reversal on VAT? In its view, it has saved its business. Tom Blenkinsop (Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland) (Lab): Given that other applications of VAT Mr Gauke: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his are being U-turned, why is its application to sports comments, and I am sure that his constituents are nutrition products not being U-turned as well? grateful to him for the work he has done on this matter. Mr Gauke: We think it right for sports nutrition Simon Danczuk (Rochdale) (Lab): What estimate has products to be subject to the standard rate of VAT. VAT the Minister made of the damage done to the bakery should be a broadly based tax, and we believe that our industry as a result of announcing a policy that has now policy addresses an anomaly in the system that needed been reversed? to be dealt with. Tony Baldry (Banbury) (Con): We had almost a full Mr Gauke: Given that the policy does not come into day’s debate on these measures, initiated by the Opposition, effect until 1 October, we do not think any damage will and the changes made by my hon. Friend are almost have been done through the policy.We think that addressing exactly the changes for which the Opposition asked. the anomalies is the right thing to do, and we have taken Given that my hon. Friend and his colleagues have the opportunity to improve the policy we initially listened to Opposition Members, would it not be rather announced. better for them simply to say “Thank you” and sit down—as I say “Thank you” to the Chancellor and his Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con): Evidently, colleagues for the changes in respect of VAT on listed the most urgent question relating to the Budget changes places of worship? are those to VAT on static caravans and hot pastries, while across the channel we literally have financial Mr Gauke: We could live in hope, but I suppose that Armageddon happening. What would the Minister contrast that was never going to happen. between the management of this country’s finances and the management of those of Europe? Mr Wayne David (Caerphilly) (Lab): There is only one word to describe the Budget, and that is “omnishambles”, Mr Gauke: This Government are determined to focus but will the Minister tell us what changes have been on the big issues we face. As a Government, we are made to VAT on skips? showing determination to ensure that the UK remains in a safe place. Mr Gauke: There have been no such changes. HMRC produced operational guidance, which I understand Mr Speaker: I am grateful for the Minister’s diplomacy, was misinterpreted by the industry. HMRC has clarified but let me say gently to the hon. Lady that the question its guidance, but there has been no change in the policy was not quite as wide as the channel—but it was not far or operational position relating to skips. short of it! Claire Perry (Devizes) (Con): Marshall’s Bakery in Seema Malhotra (Feltham and Heston) (Lab/Co-op): Pewsey, which is in my constituency, will be delighted Will the Minister confirm what extra information came by the news, as the Minister will know because he to light during the recess that led to the U-turn on the received a large petition from its customers. I am proud charity tax? to be part of a Government who listen to people, but will the Minister please assure me that he will never, Mr Gauke: In respect of all the measures we are ever listen to any economic advice from the Labour party, discussing today, this Government have been listening whose view is that the way to get out of a borrowing to the arguments. As far as charities are concerned, crisis is simply to borrow more? once we had reached the conclusion that we would not proceed with a cap on relief for charitable giving, we felt Mr Gauke: I can assure my hon. Friend that we will it only fair to make the announcement as soon as we not be listening to those who think that the best solution could—and we did so. to debt is to borrow more. Andrew Gwynne (Denton and Reddish) (Lab): So Alec Shelbrooke (Elmet and Rothwell) (Con): Before much has been changed in this disastrous Budget that I feel tempted to congratulate the Minister on the one wonders what will be next. Will the Minister now changes he has made, I should perhaps declare a personal start to rethink his tax cut of £40,000 a year for 14,000 prejudice and a personal interest in the reduction in millionaires, which is, quite frankly, outrageous? VAT on pasties. Welcome as the Minister’s consultation with Back Mr Gauke: Let me point out to the hon. Gentleman Benchers has been, may I ask him to continue to focus that three changes have been made in the 282 measures on the main aim of the Budget, which is to ensure that announced in the Budget. As for the 50p rate, the we do not go down the same road as the rest of Europe? problem was that it did not raise any money. The measures that we have announced will raise five times Mr Gauke: I am not sure that that particular policy more money from the rich than the policy pursued by announcement will necessarily do my hon. Friend any the Labour party. 29 Changes to the Budget11 JUNE 2012 Changes to the Budget 30

Stephen Gilbert (St Austell and Newquay) (LD): On Mr Gauke: As the Chancellor recently said, if there is behalf of the thousands of people who supply, make one thing worse than a Government who listen, it is a and sell the £180 million of Cornish pasties produced Government who do not listen. each year, and the millions of people throughout the country—including my hon. Friend the Member for Nic Dakin (Scunthorpe) (Lab): Unfortunately, the Elmet and Rothwell (Alec Shelbrooke)—who enjoy eating Exchequer Secretary’s attempt to clarify the skip tax them, may I say “Thank you” to the Minister? It is great appears to have added to the confusion. Will he engage that we finally have a Government who listen and do with the industry in the same spirit as he has engaged not plough on regardless. with others, and consider the eligibility of fines residue from trommel equipment being eligible for the lower Mr Gauke: I am grateful for the constructive way in rate of duty? which my hon. Friend and other Cornish Members have engaged in this process throughout. Mr Gauke: My understanding is that Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs is continuing to work with the Helen Jones (Warrington North) (Lab): Will the Minister industry to provide clarity in this area. There have been explain why he chose to listen to representations on concerns; I think there was a misinterpretation of earlier pasties, caravans and charities, but not to representations advice and I believe that that is in the process of being on the granny tax? Was it because pensioners do not addressed. have loud enough voices, or because he does not care about them? Jason McCartney (Colne Valley) (Con): I greatly welcome the consultations, but will the Minister confirm Mr Gauke: No. It was because we found the arguments that the Government will stand firm on the main facets on the three items that we are discussing today persuasive of the Budget, which have resulted in tax cuts for 25 that we decided to make the concessions we have made. million people, council tax frozen for the second year running and fuel duty being 10p lower than it would have been under the other lot? Michael Ellis (Northampton North) (Con): Will the Minister join me in welcoming the comments of the Mr Speaker: Order. I did not hear a question about chief executive officer of Greggs that the Government changes, but the hon. Member has registered his view should be “applauded” for the way in which they have with force and alacrity, and it is on the record so his “conducted themselves”, and for listening to the views constituents will hear it. of the industry? Will he also acknowledge, as Sir Terence Leahy has, that the Government should maintain their Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): The Minister course and— unlike the Labour party—keep the British started by saying that this was a Budget for families, so economy sound? will he now consider another U-turn and restore the tax credits to working couples on low wages and low working Mr Gauke: Again, I am grateful to my hon. Friend hours? for his comments. We have listened to strong arguments and responded accordingly. That is what a sensible Mr Gauke rose— Government do—and I really must contrast that with the approach taken by the previous Government, in Mr Speaker: Order. I am sorry if I did not explain the particular with regard to the 10p rate of income tax. position sufficiently clearly—although I must say I thought I did. Some Members are making speculative bids for Mr David Hanson (Delyn) (Lab): Does the Minister extending the U-turns. They may wish to do so, but the agree that business stability is important and that, for terms of the urgent question relate specifically to the example, a caravan tax rate of 0%, 20% and 5% in six announced changes. I am sure that understanding that weeks is not good for business planning? Has he written point will not be beyond the ingenuity of the hon. to his hon. Friends who voted for those measures to Member for Wansbeck (Ian Lavery). apologise for hanging them out to dry? Ian Lavery (Wansbeck) (Lab): On the announced Mr Gauke: Many Members on the Government Benches changes—the U-turns—on everything from buzzards engaged with this issue in a constructive and thoughtful and skips to caravans and pasties, when will the Government way, and helped us reach what I think was the right reconsider a U-turn on the granny tax and the cut in the conclusion. tax on the rich people in society?

Richard Graham (Gloucester) (Con): Most of my Mr Speaker: I am disappointed in the hon. Gentleman. constituents want their Government, regardless of political He started out as such a good boy, and it is a pity that hue, to be a Government who listen and appreciate their he spoiled that thereafter. I know that a similar sin will views. In this case, the changes made by my hon. Friend not be committed by the hon. Member for Kingston and the Treasury team have hugely benefited listed upon Hull East (Karl Turner), because he is a good places of worship, which are an important part of our listener and a quick learner. regeneration campaign, and an important local company, Janes Pantry, which makes pasties. They have also been Karl Turner (Kingston upon Hull East) (Lab): I much appreciated by all of us who donate to charities. welcome the Government’s U-turn on the caravan tax, We cannot have it both ways: we cannot have a Government which would have adversely affected many thousands of who listen and then criticise them when they do. I am people throughout the country. However, will the Minister grateful to the Government. take this opportunity to apologise to the 350 employees 31 Changes to the Budget 11 JUNE 2012 32

[Karl Turner] Syria of Willerby Holiday Homes in my constituency who were told that they would potentially be made redundant 4pm as a result of the Government’s barmy idea, and will he The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth describe the effect on the industry of the introduction Affairs (Mr William Hague): With permission, Mr Speaker, of the 5% tax on caravans? I will make a statement on Syria. The whole House will be united in support for the Mr Gauke: First, let me say that I am grateful to have Syrian people. They have endured 15 months of fear an opportunity to return to the Dispatch Box. On the and suffering. Eighty-seven thousand people have fled point the hon. Gentleman raises, I really do not think to neighbouring countries and up to 500,000 are internally that the changes, which in our original proposals would displaced. As many as 15,000 people may have died, not have come into effect until October and which now and thousands of political prisoners are imprisoned will not come in until April, can be the source of some and at risk of mistreatment and torture. of the current difficulties within the caravan industry. We think we have the right policy now and that a Each day, reports emerge of savage crimes. The Syrian 5% rate is fair. military are surrounding and bombarding towns with heavy weaponry, then unleashing militia groups to terrorise and murder civilians in their homes. Those deliberate military tactics are horrifyingly reminiscent of the Balkans in the 1990s. Two weeks ago in al-Houla, 108 civilians died in this manner, including 49 children under the age of 10. A similar atrocity appears to have been committed last week in al-Qubair, where 78 people were killed, including women and children. UN monitors attempting to report on those events have been shot at and obstructed. These grotesque crimes have illuminated to the world the nature of the events in Syria and the conduct of the Assad regime. It is attempting, with utter inhumanity, to sow terror, to break the spirit of opposition in Syria and to try to reassert control. This is as futile as it is morally reprehensible. By branding their opponents terrorists and using tanks against them, the regime is driving Syrians to take up arms to defend their homes; and by singling out particular communities, it is inflaming sectarian tension. There are credible reports of human rights abuses and sectarian attacks by armed opposition fighters, which we also utterly condemn. We also have reason to believe that terrorist groups affiliated to al-Qaeda have committed attacks designed to exacerbate the violence, with serious implications for international security. As a result, Syria today is on the edge of civil war. That could lead to thousands more casualties, a humanitarian disaster and human rights violations on an even greater scale, and instability in neighbouring countries. We are working intensively to find a peaceful means of resolving the crisis. Our approach, in close coordination with our European partners is: first, to push for implementation of the Annan plan as the internationally agreed road map to end the violence; secondly, to increase the pressure and isolation felt by the regime; and, thirdly, to ensure justice, accountability and humanitarian assistance for the Syrian people. I will take each of those in turn. First, the United Nations and Arab League envoy for Syria, Kofi Annan, has set out a six-point plan to end the violence and to start a political process to address the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. It is backed by two UN Security Council resolutions, 2042 and 2043. The latter mandated the deployment of the 300 UN monitors who are now on the ground in Syria. I pay tribute to them for their difficult work in dangerous circumstances. As Kofi Annan has made clear on many occasions, the onus is on the regime to call off its military assault, to adhere to a ceasefire and to allow a process of political reform. Political transition must be based on democratic principles and reflect the needs 33 Syria11 JUNE 2012 Syria 34 of all Syria’s minority communities, including Kurds, France, Germany, Japan and other countries that took Christians and Alawites. On 1 April, the Syrian regime similar steps. We are also in discussions with Arab committed itself to implementing the Annan plan, and League and like-minded countries about measures to on 12 April it announced a ceasefire. It has not kept tighten the stranglehold on the regime’s resources and either of those commitments. external sources of support, building on the 15 rounds Two weeks ago, I discussed the situation with my of EU sanctions that already target 128 individuals and Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, in Moscow. I made 43 entities. the case for Russia to use its crucial leverage with the Thirdly, we are acting to help end impunity for atrocities, Assad regime to ensure the full implementation of the and we are supporting the humanitarian needs and Annan plan, since the collapse of Syria or descent into legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. Britain civil war would be against Russian interests as well as co-sponsored the UN Human Rights Council resolution those of the wider world. I also raised the issue of arms of 1 June, which was carried by 41 votes to three. It sales to the Syrian regime, which we believe should be condemned the al-Houla massacre, mandated the UN stopped immediately. commission of inquiry to investigate and gather evidence In Istanbul, on 1 June, I held talks with members of about it, and highlighted the recommendation of the the Syrian National Council and other opposition UN high commissioner for human rights that the UN representatives, including Kurds, and I returned there Security Council should refer Syria to the International last week for discussions with Secretary Clinton, the Criminal Court. We are working on a further UN Turkish Foreign Minister and the Foreign Ministers of Human Rights Council resolution to reinforce these 12 European and Arab nations. I am in regular contact objectives. with Kofi Annan, and preparations are in hand for a We also sent a team of British experts to Syria’s meeting of the friends of Syria group, which now borders in February and March to gather testimony numbers more than 80 countries, in early July. from Syrians. The team found evidence of violations of Last Thursday, the Russian Government put forward international law and international human rights law, their own proposal for an international conference on including murder, rape, torture, unlawful imprisonment, Syria. Such a meeting could help generate momentum enforced disappearance and persecution. This work to behind the Annan plan. However, it would have to be a document abuses is being continued. The team of Syrians meeting that led to a change on the ground, and did not that helped to document the al-Houla massacre was just buy time for the regime to kill more innocent trained by the United Kingdom, and we are working people. So, in our view, any such meeting would need to closely with the United States and the UN commission be based on a common understanding that it would of inquiry to ensure that any evidence is collated and lead to a political transition; it should include genuine stored for use in a future legal process. We are also steps to implement the Annan plan; and it should only increasing UK funding for the Syrian opposition and involve nations that are committed to being part of the civil society groups, providing £1.5 million of assistance solution in Syria. We will discuss with our partners in this financial year to help provide human rights whether it is possible to agree concerted international monitoring and media training for activists, and other action on this basis; my right hon. Friend the Prime non-lethal support, such as communications equipment. Minister will take forward these discussions with other My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Heads of Government when he attends the G20 meeting International Development and his Department are in Mexico next week. working with the UN and the international community Making a success of the Annan plan also requires the to ensure that urgent humanitarian assistance gets to Syrian National Council and other opposition groups the 1 million people estimated to be in need. The Syrian to put aside their differences, to unite around the common regime has now agreed a plan to respond to humanitarian goal of a democratic transition and to assure all Syria’s needs. There can be no further delay in its implementation, minorities that their rights will be protected in a multi-ethnic and humanitarian agencies must be allowed full and and democratic Syrian state. This has been my consistent unhindered access to all areas in Syria. Britain has message in all my discussions with opposition figures. helped to provide emergency food supplies for nearly We welcome the meetings with opposition groups that 24,000 families inside Syria, safe drinking water for will be held in Istanbul later this week and subsequently 30,000 people, blankets for 5,000 people, medical assistance in Cairo, which have our active support. for up to 25,000 people and support to refugees in The Annan plan is not an open-ended commitment; neighbouring countries. it cannot be used indefinitely by the regime to play for The coming weeks must see an intensified and urgent time. If it is not implemented, we will argue for a new international effort to stop the violence and restore and robust UN Security Council resolution aimed at hope to Syria, and the British Government remain compelling the regime to meet its commitments under absolutely focused on this goal. If all the efforts I have the plan, and requiring all parties to comply with it. So described fail, Britain will work with the friends of Syria we have already begun discussions at the Security Council group to increase further the isolation of the regime and on the elements of a resolution. We do not want to see to adopt sweeping new sanctions across the world. the Annan plan fail, but if, despite our best efforts, it We will not rule out any other option that could at does not succeed, we would have to consider other any stage stop the bloodshed, and we will not relent in options for resolving the crisis and, in our view, all our efforts to ensure the political transition, justice, options should then be on the table. accountability and security that the Syrian people need Secondly, we are taking steps to increase the isolation and deserve, and to support greater political and economic of the regime. On 29 May, we expelled three Syrian freedom in the middle east. This freedom is not only the diplomats from London, including the chargé d’affaires, legitimate right of all the peoples of the region, but the in co-ordination with the United States, Canada, Australia, foundation of lasting peace, stability and prosperity. 35 Syria11 JUNE 2012 Syria 36

[Mr William Hague] and former High Representative for Bosnia, who said of the British Government’s strategy for dealing with the The time has long passed for the Assad regime to crisis: stop the killing and torturing of its people, and it is time “I don’t think that is wise diplomacy”? now for all nations on the UN Security Council to insist on the cessation of violence and on the political process, As the Annan plan is currently not working, the which remain the only peaceful way to resolve this challenge is to ask what, beyond the Annan plan, can be mounting crisis. done, even accounting for the divergence of views in the international community. Several steps short of military intervention should be considered to sharpen the choice 4.10 pm facing the Syrian regime. First, on the financing of the Mr Douglas Alexander (Paisley and Renfrewshire regime, without a comprehensive oil embargo Syria can South) (Lab): I thank the Foreign Secretary for his still export oil to countries outside the EU and United statement and for advance sight of it. If anyone was in States. What discussions has the Foreign Secretary had any doubt as to the seriousness of the situation in Syria, with the Government of India, who do not have bilateral a simple examination of the facts should be enough to sanctions and who have allegedly been approached by convince them of the scale of the horror that we are the Syrians to purchase Syrian oil?The Syrian regime is witnessing. The conflict has been raging for 15 months also still able to import diesel from countries such as and the death toll is estimated at more than 15,000. As Venezuela, which allows it to sustain its military operation, the Foreign Secretary told the House in the last few including tanks, through foreign imports. What is the minutes, the village of al-Houla was the scene of one of likelihood of a comprehensive oil ban being agreed by the worst massacres of which there are reports. UN the United Nations? Failing that, what realistic pressure observers on the ground have confirmed that at least have the Government put on countries continuing to 108 people were killed, including 49 children and 34 women. trade with Syria in such a way? I therefore join the Foreign Secretary in recognising the Secondly, on the security situation and particularly work of UN monitors who attempt to document such on support for the opposition, there are steps that could events. They have been repeatedly shot at and obstructed alter the realities on the ground without breaching the in trying to carry out that important task. arms embargo, such as blocking the communications of This is not an historical conflict—it is unfolding in Assad’s forces and choking off his remaining finance real time, documented on television screens and in from neighbours such as Lebanon, which we understand YouTube footage. I therefore welcome this opportunity are still not enforcing the Arab League sanctions that for the House to scrutinise the Government’s response. they have previously agreed to. Fifteen months on, in recent weeks the conflict, instead The Syrian military is one of the key pillars still of approaching its end, seems, if anything, to be entering sustaining the political regime in Damascus, and the a new and bloodier phase. We should be clear that the newly appointed head of the Syrian National Council, responsibility for the crisis lies primarily with the Assad Abdulbaset Sayda, was right to call for mass defections regime, which continues to show utter contempt for the from the regime in one of his first statements since value of human life, perpetrating a violent and brutal taking control of the SNC. What is the Foreign Secretary’s crackdown on innocent people across Syria, for which it assessment of the current rate of such defections, and must ultimately be held to account. However, expressions what steps can the international community to take to of revulsion in response to the slaughter are not enough. encourage and facilitate them further? Does he agree Let us be candid and admit that the international that more should be done to publish internationally the community is dangerously divided on its response to names of any officers ordering the current atrocities, as the conflict. That division is drastically hampering the a clear signal of intent that they will face the full force effort to stop the violence. of international justice for their crimes? The point of consensus for the time being is the Kofi The Foreign Secretary mentioned in passing that Annan peace plan, but by any honest reckoning that al-Qaeda is operating in Syria. What is the British UN-backed plan has so far failed to bring an end to the Government’s view of the scale of its activity within violence. Does the Foreign Secretary therefore think Syria to date? that increasing the number of monitors and boosting Mr Annan’s resources would improve the prospects of I welcome wholeheartedly the Foreign Secretary’s the plan succeeding? To date, the Annan plan has been recent visit to Russia. Does he believe that the Russian judged to be the only option on the table, but the position is likely to shift significantly in the immediate Foreign Secretary rightly told the House a few moments future as the situation deteriorates further? I also welcome ago that the “Annan plan is not an open-ended his comments about the friends of Syria group and the commitment.” Will he tell the House specifically what news that a further meeting of the group is being the time limit and tests for the Annan plan are? How planned. He said that the Prime Minister intended to much slaughter is required before the international raise the issue of Syria at the G20 in Mexico. In the light community acknowledges the plan’s failure and begins of statements by a Chinese Minister earlier today that to formulate a more effective alternative means of ending the situation in Syria should not be on the agenda at the the crisis? G20 meeting, will the Foreign Secretary give us his Further diplomacy is of course needed if the divisions assurance that he is taking all the necessary steps to in the international community are to be overcome, but ensure that appropriate time is found for a discussion the difficulty of the task must not detract from its that must take place at that meeting? urgency. What, therefore, is the Foreign Secretary’s The Foreign Secretary said in his statement that if the assessment of the recent and fairly brutal judgment of Annan plan was not implemented, the UK Government Lord Ashdown, the former Liberal Democrat leader would argue for “a new and robust UN Security Council 37 Syria11 JUNE 2012 Syria 38 resolution aimed at compelling the regime to meet its The right hon. Gentleman asked about the comments commitments under the plan”. How will the British by my noble Friend Lord Ashdown. From my memory Government endeavour to shift Russia’s view to allow of that article, I think his argument was that we should for agreement at the Security Council on the passing of focus on other countries’ responsibility for addressing such a resolution? That is surely the real test of whether the situation rather than emphasising our own responsibility. there is a Security Council route beyond the Annan I do not think he was criticising any of the diplomatic plan, about which the Foreign Secretary was more moves we have made. A more extended quotation might circumspect. have been a good idea at that point in the right hon. The scale of the humanitarian crisis is growing by the Gentleman’s questions. day, as the Foreign Secretary acknowledged. This morning, On the question of discouraging oil purchases, of The Times reported that a group called the Union of course we do that. We discourage all countries and I Free Syrian Doctors had questioned the international have taken the matter up with Foreign Ministers of community’s commitment and said that help for doctors many countries filling in for the EU sanctions on Syrian trying to get medical supplies in through Turkey had oil. The Syrians have found their particular type of come only from a one-off donation by France and by heavy grade oil difficult to sell in other markets, so the private individuals. Will he use this opportunity to shed income of the regime has been substantially reduced by some light on that? the EU sanctions. In Istanbul last week, I also raised with Arab Ministers the enforcement of Arab League Mr Speaker: Order. I am listening intently to the sanctions and the case for Arab nations adopting sanctions shadow Foreign Secretary. He has provided much food similar to those of the European Union. for thought for the Secretary of State, who I am sure The right hon. Gentleman asked about defections, will be delighted to respond to each of his pertinent which take place from army units and seem to happen inquiries. I feel sure that those pertinent inquiries are on a regular basis. The Assad regime tries to prevent coming very shortly to a close. high-level defections, not only by placing people under house arrest but by threatening the families of anyone who manages to defect from the regime. It makes it Mr Alexander: Indeed, Mr Speaker. extremely difficult for them to do so. The right hon. There is one final question that I should like to pose Gentleman also asked about the names of army officers to the Foreign Secretary in the light of his remarks. and those responsible for crimes, and of course some What thought has been given to creating large humanitarian have been added to each list of EU sanctions. I will also enclaves for civilians in neighbouring countries—safe consider his further point about whether more can be areas in countries such as Turkey—given that the done to publicise those names. humanitarian crisis is as serious as he suggested? The right hon. Gentleman asked about the G20. The agenda of the formal meetings of the G20 will be for Mr Hague: As the right hon. Gentleman said, the the Mexican presidency to finalise, but whether or not facts about the terrible atrocities that have been committed the subject is on the formal agenda there will be many speak for themselves. He illustrated the fact that support bilateral meetings. It is possible for leaders to discuss for the work of the UN monitors and abhorrence of the whatever they wish, and the Prime Minister will therefore crimes that have been committed are universal across all certainly be discussing Syria in and around the G20 political parties and all shades of opinion in this country. meetings. He agreed, too, that the clear responsibility for the crisis Our dialogue with Russia on this subject is continuous, lies with the Assad regime. and I think it is fair to say that the Russian position has The right hon. Gentleman asked about the Annan certainly shifted its emphasis and perhaps its substance plan and the possibility of increasing the number of to some degree, which increasingly emphasises that the monitors. I have discussed that possibility with Kofi Russians are not wedded to Assad and that they want Annan several times. Certainly the United Kingdom to see stability in Syria. The most persuasive thing for would support an increase in the number of monitors if them is not what any of us say but the fact that the Kofi Annan were to ask for it. I will have a discussion situation is clearly deteriorating and that Syria is on the with him again later today, and we will see what his edge of the things we have described—collapse or full latest assessment is. He points out, and we have to civil war. That is a terrible scenario for all the nations of remember, that this is not a peacekeeping force. It was the United Nations Security Council and for all who meant to monitor a ceasefire that had been agreed, so it wish to see international peace and security. Russia can is not a case of just increasing the size of a peacekeeping see that deterioration, too, and that is why they have force. Of course, the monitors are going into very made their proposals, to which we are unable to agree dangerous situations. immediately for the reasons I have given, for an international The mandate from the existing UN resolution would conference. Russian diplomacy is being adjusted as the expire on 20 July, which is pertinent to the right hon. days go by, and my judgment is that it is worth continuing Gentleman’s point about a deadline. I do not think it is that dialogue with Russia and continuing to try to move wise to set an arbitrary deadline. If we said now that the them towards insistence that the regime implement the Annan plan had so many days or weeks and found the Annan plan. day before that deadline expired that it was possible to Finally, the right hon. Gentleman asked about large hold an international conference to push the Annan humanitarian enclaves. That would require the willingness plan, that would not necessarily be wise. Inevitably, the of neighbouring countries, many of which are doing need to review the work of the monitors before 20 July very good work in looking after the refugees on their will focus minds in the UN Security Council well before soil—26,000 in Turkey, more than 22,000 in Jordan and that on whether it is feasible or right to do so. 17,000 in Lebanon, which are large numbers in any 39 Syria11 JUNE 2012 Syria 40

[Mr Hague] help any of those countries’ international standing in the region or, in the wider world, among people who case. People are taking refuge in those countries and we have a passionate concern for human rights. That is one are helping to provide humanitarian assistance through of the factors in their thinking. It may be one of the international agencies. People are finding refuge in factors in the increased readiness to look for new solutions neighbouring countries, but issues such as safe areas in order to bring about the implementation of the or enclaves in Syria—that is perhaps not what he was Annan plan. As I say, we will continue to work with suggesting—are a different matter. As I have said, we Russia and try to persuade the Russian leaders on that are not ruling out any option for the future but such basis. safe areas would have to be truly safe and effective. Making them safe and effective raises all the issues Sir Malcolm Rifkind (Kensington) (Con): Over the about military intervention with which the House is weekend the Foreign Secretary made the important familiar. comparison between Syria today and Bosnia in the 1990s. Will he accept that we are repeating one of the Sir Peter Tapsell (Louth and Horncastle) (Con): May major mistakes of that period by imposing an arms I suggest to my right hon. Friend that if any British embargo equally on the Syrian regime and the Syrian joint military intervention is ever contemplated into the insurgents, despite the fact that the regime has an sectarian civil war in Syria—essentially a war between overwhelming preponderance of military equipment Alawites and Sunnis, each with foreign backers urging already? Taking into account the fact that the embargo them on to greater ferocity—he will reflect on the is not a Security Council embargo—it is one imposed British experience in Mandated Palestine, which purely by the European Union, and could therefore be demonstrated that the ultimate folly for an intruder into changed and modified, regardless of the views of Russia another country is to be caught between warring and or China—will my right hon. Friend have urgent talks irreconcilable historic forces? with his fellow Foreign Ministers in other European Union countries on modifying the arms embargo to the Mr Hague: There are many points in history, including degree required to enable appropriate military assistance the one that my right hon. Friend points out, that show to be given to Syrian insurgents, so that they can that we should always bring caution to any consideration prevent, or at least seek to prevent, the continuing of military intervention. That is why, despite all the slaughter of the Syrian people? frustrations and the terrible length of this bloody crisis, our efforts are so heavily devoted to, and we continue to Mr Hague: While not fundamentally disagreeing in work so hard on, the implementation of the Annan all circumstances that might arise with my right hon. plan, and trying to bring Russia to a stronger insistence and learned Friend, I am not at the same point in the that the regime implement that plan. Clearly, that is argument. As he well knows, there are serious disadvantages because we think that is the only way to secure a to sending arms to opposition groups, as well as the peaceful transition in Syria and a peaceful solution to case that he might make. It is difficult to know in the the crisis. It is impossible to know how, if the plan is not current situation what those arms would be used for, followed and implemented, the situation will develop. and whether they could also be used to commit atrocities That is why I say that we should have all options on the that we would find appalling. They could contribute to table, but cautionary words about military intervention the cycle of violence that is building up and create a in such a complex situation are entirely well understood further reaction on the other side. We can see some of by the Government and the whole House. that now, as there clearly is an increased availability of arms, from whatever source, to opposition groups, and Mr Jack Straw (Blackburn) (Lab): We all understand the cycle of violence is increasing. I think it is far the necessary caution regarding going beyond the existing preferable to any of the other options—options which diplomatic measures, but notwithstanding what the Father may be on the table for the future, but it is far preferable of the House, the right hon. Member for Louth and now to put all our effort and to put our diplomatic Horncastle (Sir Peter Tapsell), said, that was the approach effort entirely, even at this stage, into trying to secure that we took to Bosnia for three years, with catastrophic the Annan plan, because that or something very similar results. Given the Foreign Secretary’s discussions with to it is the only hope of a peaceful transition. Until all Sergei Lavrov and other Russian leaders, does he think such efforts have been entirely exhausted, I think it is that they comprehend the huge damage being done to best to continue to aim for that peaceful solution and their international reputation by the fact that it appears not to contribute in any way to the violence in Syria. to the rest of the world that, whatever they are saying, in practice all they are doing is protecting an abject, Mr Peter Hain (Neath) (Lab): We are all caught brutal regime that has lost the consent of its people? between horror at what is going on, and Britain’s and the west’s failure over Bosnia and not wishing to repeat Mr Hague: That is a good point. I do not know what that, but the only hope is to redouble the efforts that the Russia’s private assessment is of that damage, but there Foreign Secretary has indicated he is pursuing with the is such damage, of course, and not only in the view of Russian Government. Their strategic interests through leaders in the Arab world, but among the huge populations their Mediterranean port in Syria and their other interests who now watch the footage of these crimes on satellite in Syria hold the key. Whether we like it or not, we are TV.Of course, the same people across the whole middle not going to achieve any progress by on the one hand east are familiar with, or were rapidly informed of, the encouraging the Russians to think that western intervention fact that when we had a vote in the UN Human Rights is yapping at their heels, and on the other hand thinking Council 10 days ago, only three countries voted against that just by berating them we are going to get any that resolution: Russia, China and Cuba. That does not progress. The truth is that, whether we like it or not, we 41 Syria11 JUNE 2012 Syria 42 have to engage them and make them see that their own I think that doing our utmost to work with them and strategic interests will be advanced by resolving this asking them to work with us to implement the Annan problem, which probably only they can do. plan is the best way forward, and we will do that. As the hon. Gentleman may have gathered from my earlier Mr Hague: That is entirely the case that we are comments, I do not shrink from criticising Russia, but it making. Of course we often make some criticism of is also my job as Foreign Secretary to pursue this with their position, as they do of ours, in public but we have Russia in a diplomatic way, which I will continue to do a good working relationship with the Russian leaders. I until the possibility of reaching success has been exhausted. have discussed this many times and at great length, as the House can gather, with Sergei Lavrov and will no Richard Ottaway (Croydon South) (Con): On that doubt do so again over the coming days. We will keep point, the Foreign Secretary is right to continue his making exactly that case because, as we have been support for the Annan plan, but he must recognise that discussing over the past few minutes, all the alternatives we are very close to having to acknowledge that it is not to bringing about the full implementation of the Annan working and he is quite right to have all options on plan or something very close to it are extremely bloody the table. May I press him a little on the international and have unknowable consequences. conference proposed by the Russians? In my view, it is well worth persevering with, but what would his attitude Sir Menzies Campbell (North East Fife) (LD): I do be if an invitation were extended to Iran? Would that not often disagree with my right hon. and learned deter him from attending, or would he be encouraged Friend the Member for Kensington (Sir Malcolm Rifkind), by that as something that might lead to a change on the but may I offer to the Foreign Secretary my belief that ground of the sort he envisaged? he should exercise considerable caution before embarking upon the notion of supplying arms, however well Mr Hague: No, I would not be encouraged by that. intentioned such a supply might be? There is a common As I said in my statement, in any such international characteristic, unfortunately, between Bosnia and Syria conference it would be important that all countries today—that is, the senseless brutality and unbridled involved are ready to be part of the solution, which of barbarism. Is it not the case, and is this not something course is a reference to Iran, in particular, which has that he should impress not only upon Russia but upon been part of the problem so far. By sending equipment China, that their apparent tolerance of that behaviour and technical advice to the Syrian regime—it might is seriously damaging to the very interests they seek to have helped in other ways that we are not familiar protect? with—Iran has been assisting with the terrorising and subjugation of the people of Syria, which is not a very Mr Hague: In line with my earlier answer, I take my good starting point to come to an international conference right hon. and learned Friend’s strong note of caution designed to sort this out. We will see what can be agreed about supplying arms into such a conflict. It has not so on this. The United States has objected very strongly to far been our policy, in any of the nations affected by the any notion of Iran being included in such a conference. Arab spring, in any of these conflicts, to supply arms to I have said that Iran’s inclusion would probably make it any of the parties involved. Even in Libya, where we unworkable, so it would be far simpler if we agreed that were actively involved with the military intervention the conference did not include Iran. under a UN resolution, we did not supply arms to any of the participants, so to change that would be a major Glenda Jackson (Hampstead and Kilburn) (Lab): change in our approach. He is right about the long-term Several of my constituents have asked why the UN right diplomatic cost and the cost in world opinion, not only to protection has not been exercised. Does the possible to Russia but to China, and we certainly encourage introduction of that right constitute one of the options other nations throughout the middle east and across the to which the Foreign Secretary referred, and would the world to make that point very forcefully to their Russian United Kingdom support its implementation, because and Chinese ambassadors. with the best will in the world a peaceful solution to what is happening in Syria seems to be drifting further Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): I just wonder whether and further away? the carrot approach works very well with Russia. The United States of America tried to press the reset button Mr Hague: Of course, the best way to protect the and gained absolutely nothing, but the Russians gained people of Syria is to arrive at a peaceful solution and a great deal of advantage. The Russians seem to be have a peaceful transition there. The hon. Lady asks advancing an entirely cold war attitude to the situation, why the United Nations has not done more on that. It is protecting their military interests in Tartus and saying because there has been no unity at the UN Security that the biggest threat in their military doctrine is Council. Twice—on 4 October and 4 February—Russia NATO. Is it not time we were a bit more robust with the and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution Russians? that would have applied greater pressure. We expect that if we tried at the moment to pass a resolution either Mr Hague: The whole House has just been discussing sanctioning any kind of outside intervention in Syria or how to persuade Russia to change its position. I do not mandating sanctions from the entire world, it would think that it is a question of sticks and carrots, which is run up against the same problem. The UN Security the wrong way to analyse this. In any case, the pressure Council has therefore not yet mustered the unity to on Russia in this regard is what will happen if there is fulfil its responsibilities, despite our repeated efforts no implementation of the Annan plan, which would be over more than a year, so at the moment it is not very destructive of Russian interests as well as the fulfilling its responsibilities to protect the people of broader interests of international peace and security, so Syria. 43 Syria11 JUNE 2012 Syria 44

Mr Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con): Any western Mr Hague: Russia has a range of defence and, one intervention, such as arming the rebels, would make the has to assume, intelligence interests in Syria, and they disasters of Afghanistan and Iraq look like a picnic. will all be factors in Russia’s alliance with the Assad The Alawites were a savagely persecuted minority until regime and in the way Russia has acted over the past the French started empowering them; there are only year to protect the regime. It is hard to rank those 10 Alawites on the Syrian National Council, which things, but they will all be factors. However, Russia’s numbers more than 300; and Christians are hugely important interests in Syria should also now be factors unrepresented. Instead of constantly criticising the Russians, in Russia using all possible leverage to bring about a can we not appreciate that they have a sophisticated peaceful transition in Syria, rather than a continuation understanding of the country, and that we have to work of the current situation, which could bring about the with them to reach a peaceful solution which empowers collapse of the country and, indeed, a very clear danger the minorities? to all those same Russian interests.

Mr Hague: I hope that the Russians and all of us have Mark Durkan (Foyle) (SDLP): Is the Foreign Secretary a sophisticated understanding of the country, but that worried that a failure to agree on an international sophisticated understanding, when brought up to date, conference in, for example, the context of the Mexico suggests that we are on the edge of a catastrophe for all meetings could be used as a top-up for the diplomatic those people unless we muster the international unity “excusory” that we have already had from Russia? In to ensure that the Annan plan, and the road map that the event of a failure to agree on such a conference, arises from it, is put into practice. what quick, visible and credible alternative does he My hon. Friend is entirely right to worry about those envisage? things, and I have stressed in my meetings with opposition groups from Syria that not only must they come together Mr Hague: Of course it is possible that if we cannot but that they need the broadest possible representation agree the terms of an international conference, some of all groups in Syria and to increase the representation commentators or other nations will say, “Well done; we of Christians, Kurds and Alawites, working with, and in tried, but we weren’t able to go forward that way.” leading roles in, the opposition movement. However, it is important for us to try to ensure that such an international conference would actually achieve Ann Clwyd (Cynon Valley) (Lab): On a day when something. Also, we do not want an international Homs is yet again being pounded into the ground, it is conference that simply allows the regime to play for very difficult to stand back and watch. I commend the time. It is therefore necessary for us to negotiate on the Foreign Secretary for the considerable efforts that he terms of such a conference, even though that means has made so far, but how long can we wait? What does that there is some risk of its not being able to take place. the UN doctrine on the responsibility to protect actually If we do not succeed in bringing about such a conference, mean in practice? At the moment it does not seem to then our recourse will be to the United Nations Security mean very much; it seems to be a menu form which Council. I mentioned in my statement that we are people pick and mix as they choose. But they are all already working on elements of a draft resolution that signed up to it, and once again this calls into question would greatly strengthen the previous resolutions. That the composition of the UN Security Council. My preferred would return us to the same problem of winning Russian option is safe havens: it worked for the Kurds; it can and Chinese co-operation, but it would return the matter work for the Syrians. I realise that it also requires some to that forum. kind of military intervention, but putting that in place is absolutely essential. Neil Carmichael (Stroud) (Con): I certainly welcome the Foreign Secretary’s robust approach in connection Mr Hague: It is sadly true that nations have signed up with arms sales to Syria, notably from Russia, but what to commitments and to principles under United Nations assessment has he made and can he give to the House charters at various stages, but it is then very difficult to on the likelihood of a change of mood from the Russian achieve international unity on putting them into practice. Government? Of course, there are so many nations that signed the universal declaration on human rights—long before the Mr Hague: As I mentioned, there have been changes doctrine on the responsibility to protect—whose human of emphasis—one can call them changes of language—from rights records the right hon. Lady and I would be Russia over the past couple of weeks. Russia does support severely critical of, so a signature to a declaration is the Annan plan, and Russia voted for UN resolutions never the same as putting it into practice when a crisis 2042 and 2043, so we are agreed on the desirability of comes. I accept that she is in favour of the safe havens the Annan plan. What we are talking about is the idea, and although I think that there are the constraints insistence on its implementation, which I argue to Moscow, I mentioned earlier, I also stress that, given the nature of as have others, puts a particular responsibility on Russia the situation and the fact that we do not how it will because of its links with the Assad regime and the develop over the coming months, unless we can get a leverage that it has over it. As I indicated earlier, there peaceful transition going in Syria we are not taking that have been some changes. I think there is increased option off the table, either. anxiety in Russia about the situation, and I will be discussing this further with the Russians during the Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): To what course of this week. extent do the Government believe that the possession in Syria of major Russian technical intelligence-gathering Jeremy Corbyn (Islington North) (Lab): Obviously facilities is a factor in Russia’s determination not to see we all condemn the human rights abuses, wherever they President Assad fall from power? are occurring, all over Syria. Will the Foreign Secretary 45 Syria11 JUNE 2012 Syria 46 be more specific about which opposition groups the UK continuing loss of life? Does he agree that Russia would Government are supporting either financially or with be better advised enthusiastically to support the enforcement logistical equipment or training, and about whether of the objectives of the Annan plan? there are any British arms or British special forces in the area, which can only exacerbate what is already a very Mr Hague: Yes, I very much agree with that. In the serious set of divisions within the opposition in Syria? absence of the implementation of the Annan plan, the absence of a sufficiently strong insistence on its Mr Hague: The groups outside Syria that we are implementation and the absence of the implementation supporting—the kind of groups that I have been meeting of all the UN resolutions that we have promoted, the in Istanbul—include the Syrian National Council, which virtue of a conference is that it could be the forum in is the largest of these groups, although some of the which insistence on the Annan plan or something like it minority ethnic communities are not yet affiliated to it, is made by Russia as well as by all the other countries and we want them to come together. All our support is that would be involved. Every day and every week that non-lethal. Our assistance takes the form that I described has gone by has contributed to the huge death toll of in my statement—communications equipment, training, perhaps 15,000 people. Every day that goes by adds to and human rights monitoring. No armed intervention that death toll. We are pursuing this option in the is being practised or sanctioned by the United Kingdom absence of the other options, which have so far not at the moment. worked.

Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): After meeting Mr Andrew Love (Edmonton) (Lab/Co-op): I welcome Chancellor Merkel recently, Russia’s President Putin the Foreign Secretary’s confidence in the Syrian opposition sought to claim impartiality, reportedly saying, “We are groups, with the £1.5 million of funding, but let me not for Assad and neither for his opponents.” If this press him a little on his previous answers. What steps were really so, does the Foreign Secretary consider that has he taken to reassure himself that those groups are future Russian support for a Security Council resolution willing to work alongside each other to find a solution referring the situation in Syria to the International in Syria? What reassurance does he have that they are Criminal Court could help to deter future atrocities in representative of communities in Syria and, perhaps that country? most importantly, that they are supportive of the terms of the Annan plan? Would achieving all those things Mr Hague: Certainly that is something that we have not be the best way to get Russia involved? wanted to get going, and we have succeeded in doing so in the UN Human Rights Council resolution, which Mr Hague: I can give the hon. Gentleman a fair refers to the International Criminal Court. Such are the degree of confidence about those things. Certainly in atrocities and the appalling nature of these crimes that what they say, the groups are committed to a Syria with if we could muster the votes to take that through the respect for minorities and with democracy, as I said in Security Council itself, we would do so. I hope that at my statement. They are supportive of a peaceful solution. some stage in the future we will be able to do so, and It is difficult, however, to assess how representative they that we will be able to take the Russian leaders at their would be in a free election in Syria, since there has been word on this, but what they have said recently about not no such election. I hope we will discover that in the being committed to Assad himself or to the Assad future. regime has not yet translated into a readiness to support The groups are not sufficiently united. I have spoken such resolutions. to them clearly and bluntly about the need to be united. When any country faces an existential crisis, the people Caroline Lucas (Brighton, Pavilion) (Green): I welcome who believe in its freedom and territorial integrity should the Secretary of State’s strong urging of the Russians to stand together, as we have always done in this country. halt their arms sales to the Syrian regime, but does he Syria is certainly in an existential crisis, so I have put agree that we ourselves should cease to have any dealings that point to the groups strongly. They need to remedy with the foreign arms companies that are providing that without delay. weapons to the Syrian Government, such as the Russian state-owned company Rosoboronexport? If so, will he David Rutley (Macclesfield) (Con): Given the scale of use his influence to help to prevent that company from the atrocities, will my right hon. Friend tell the House fulfilling its plans to take part in a trade exhibition that what steps are being taken to ensure that all relevant will be part of the Farnborough air show next month in intelligence is being shared between the parties and the UK? nations that are opposed to the Assad regime to enable the best possible international response should the situation Mr Hague: I will certainly look at the point that the escalate in the days and weeks ahead? hon. Lady has raised and discuss it with my colleagues at the Ministry of Defence. I am not sure that we can do Mr Hague: We are in close touch on a daily basis with much in our relations with that company that would all our key partners and allies on this matter, including make a difference to this situation, but I will look at her the United States, leading European nations and leading point. Arab nations. That is why I went back to Istanbul last Wednesday to meet Secretary Clinton and the Foreign Mr Robert Buckland (South Swindon) (Con): Does Ministers of 13 other nations from the region and from my right hon. Friend share my concern that the time Europe, including the Foreign Ministers of France, that could be spent in negotiating the terms of reference Germany and Italy. We share information all the time. for an international conference is time that the international What I have said to the House today could have been community can ill afford to waste, bearing in mind the said, and probably is being said, by the great majority of 47 Syria 11 JUNE 2012 48

[Mr Hague] Family Migration those Ministers in their Parliaments, because we have a 4.55 pm common understanding of the situation and of the way The Secretary of State for the Home Department forward, which I have described. (Mrs Theresa May): With permission, Mr Speaker, I would like to make a statement on family migration. Michael Ellis (Northampton North) (Con): The Assad regime is a brutal, wicked and barbaric dictatorship The Government are committed to reviewing all the that is savagely oppressing its people. May I take this main routes for immigration to the UK as part of our opportunity to applaud the Secretary of State and his programme to reform the immigration system. As a Department for the work he is doing on the international result, we anticipate that net migration will fall from the stage to assist the Syrian people? I appreciate that the hundreds of thousands to the tens of thousands. We Foreign Office has, over several months, repeatedly have already announced major changes to the immigration warned any UK citizens who might still be in Syria to rules by introducing a cap on work visas and reforming leave that country, but I understand that there may be student visas to cut out widespread abuse. We now turn some UK citizens still there—in particular, those who to reform of the family route. may have dual nationality. If that is the case, are there In 2010, family immigration accounted for approximately any contingency plans for any British citizens who 18% of all non-EU immigration to the UK—around might still be in Syria? 54,000 people out of 300,000. However, like the rest of the immigration system, family immigration has not Mr Hague: My hon. Friend is right: it is many months been regulated effectively for many years. Sham marriages now since we warned all British nationals to leave Syria. have been widespread, people have been allowed to We have made that clear for a long time, and I reiterated settle in Britain without being able to speak English, it when we ceased to be able to operate an embassy and there have not been rules in place to stop migrants safely. We have what is called a protecting power becoming a burden on the taxpayer. We are changing all arrangement—that is, an arrangement with another that. The UK needs a system for family migration that country that looks after our interests, which in this case is underpinned by three simple principles: first, that is Hungary, as it still operates an embassy there. We are those who come here should do so on the basis of a grateful to the Hungarians for that assistance. They are genuine relationship; secondly, that migrants should be able to give assistance, if appropriate and possible, to able to pay their way; and thirdly, that they are able to British nationals. However, I repeat that British nationals integrate into British society. If people do not meet should not be in that situation. They should have left those requirements, they should not be allowed to come Syria long ago, and if there are any remaining, they here. should leave now. In July last year, the Government published a consultation on precisely how such a family migration system can be developed. Today I am setting out the new measures that we are introducing, and will shortly lay before Parliament the necessary changes to the immigration rules, to come into effect on 9 July. I shall place in the Library copies of the detailed statement of intent, together with a summary of the responses to the consultation. When I lay the changes to the rules, I will also publish the impact assessments of the new measures. For too long we have had an immigration system that could be easily exploited by sham relationships. We are stepping up our enforcement activity, but it is important that policy reflects the seriousness of the problem as well. We will therefore increase the minimum probationary period for new spouses and partners from two years to five years. We will also publish new guidance to help caseworkers identify sham marriages. For too long we have had an immigration system that did not take into account whether people coming here could pay their way. The Government’s reforms will mean that anyone who wishes to bring a foreign spouse or partner, or dependants to Britain will have to be able to support them financially. They must not become a burden on the taxpayer. Following advice from the Migration Advisory Committee, we will set a minimum income threshold of £18,600 for sponsoring a partner to settle in the UK. This is the level at which a sponsor can generally support themselves and a partner without accessing income-related benefits. Children involve additional costs for the state. To reflect this, there will be a higher threshold for each child sponsored: a £22,400 threshold for a partner with one child, with an additional £2,400 for each further child. 49 Family Migration11 JUNE 2012 Family Migration 50

It has also been too easy for elderly dependent relatives the law. For the most serious foreign criminals—those to join their migrant children here and then potentially sentenced to four or more years in prison—article 8 become a burden on the taxpayer. Therefore, if someone rights will prevent deportation only in the most exceptional wants to sponsor a dependent relative to come to Britain of circumstances. who requires personal care, they will have to show, first, I will shortly ask the House to approve a motion that they cannot organise care in the relative’s home recognising the qualified nature of article 8 and agreeing country and, secondly, that they can look after the that the new immigration rules should form the basis of relative without recourse to public funds. We will also whether someone can come to or stay in this country on limit to close family the people who are able to access the basis of their family life. For the first time, the courts that route: parents, grandparents, sons, daughters, brothers will have a clear framework within which to operate, and sisters. Aunts and uncles will no longer be eligible and one that is on the side of the public, not foreign to come here through the family route. Future applications criminals. I commend this statement to the House. will also have to be made from overseas, not while the applicant is here as a visitor. 5.2 pm For too long, people have been allowed to settle in Yvette Cooper (Normanton, Pontefract and Castleford) Britain without being able to speak English well enough (Lab): I thank the Home Secretary for giving us early and without having a proper appreciation of our values. sight of her statement on family migration, article 8 and So, from October 2013, all those who wish to live here foreign criminals. I thank her for giving us early sight of will need to demonstrate that they are able to participate it in The Sunday Times and on “The Andrew Marr fully in British life. All applicants for settlement will Show” as well. need to pass the “Life in the UK” test and, because a person cannot integrate if they cannot communicate, I shall respond first to the Home Secretary’s points we are strengthening the language requirement by about article 8. Foreign citizens who come to Britain introducing a separate English language test at intermediate should abide by our rules. The Government should be level. able to deport people who break the law and, as she will know, the number of foreign criminals being deported The family migration system will work best if it is trebled in the last five years of the Labour Government. able to operate efficiently.That means simplifying processes However, there continue to be cases in which it is and removing unnecessary waste. The cost of administering difficult to understand why the courts have allowed the appeals against family visit visa refusals is around foreign criminals involved to stay in Britain. We therefore £29 million a year. No other category of visit visa agree with the Home Secretary that action is needed. attracts a full right of appeal. So the Crime and Courts Bill will remove the full right of appeal for family Article 8 of the European convention on human visitors, bringing the process in line with the rest of the rights is a qualified right, and the right to respect for immigration system. In the meantime, we will lay new family life should be balanced against other issues, regulations to restrict the full appeal right to those including public safety, economic well-being and preventing applying to visit a close family member who has settled, disorder or crime. Parliament is therefore entitled to set refugee or humanitarian protection status in the UK. out how those rights should be balanced against those considerations when dealing with foreign criminals, and In developing all the measures that I have outlined, to provide a framework within which the courts should the Government have had article 8 of the European operate. We should discuss those details, but the way in convention on human rights—the right to respect for which Parliament provides that framework must be private and family life—very much in mind. But, as the legally effective. convention itself makes clear, article 8 is not an absolute I am puzzled by the Home Secretary’s decision to use right. The convention allows the state to interfere in a motion in Parliament that will obviously not change the exercise of article 8 rights when it is in the public the law or override case law in the way that primary interest to do so, and when the interference is proportionate legislation would. Surely that approach will risk creating to the public interest being pursued. In an immigration confusion and legal uncertainty. Would it not be better context, it allows necessary and proportionate interference for her to do this properly, through primary legislation, on public safety grounds, or to protect the UK’s economic instead? If that were to happen, we would happily hold well-being. discussions with the Government to work on getting Article 8 is clearly a qualified right, but Parliament that right. has never set out how it should be qualified in practice. On the measures on family migration, when people So, for too long, the courts have been left to decide cases travel and trade across borders more than they ever did under article 8 without the view of Parliament, and to before, there needs to be a fair framework for those who develop public policy through case law. It is time to fill fall in love and build family relationships across borders, the vacuum and put the law back on the side of the too. We agree that stronger safeguards are needed for British public, so we are changing the immigration rules the taxpayer on family migration. If people want to to establish that if someone is a serious criminal, and if make this country their home, they should contribute they have not behaved according to the standards that and not be a burden on public funds, but it is not clear we expect in this country, claiming a right to a family that the best way to protect the taxpayer is to focus life will not get in the way of their deportation. solely on the sponsor’s salary. For example, in the If a foreign criminal has received a custodial sentence current economic climate, someone on £40,000 today of 12 months or more, deportation will normally be could lose their job next month, and then, of course, proportionate. Even if a criminal has received a shorter there is no way to protect the taxpayer. The system does sentence, deportation will still normally be proportionate not take account of the foreign partner’s income, which if their offending has caused serious harm or if they are might have a differential impact on women. Will the a persistent offender who shows particular disregard for Home Secretary explain why the Government ruled out 51 Family Migration11 JUNE 2012 Family Migration 52

[Yvette Cooper] should do and on what income level we should adopt. It gave us a range of income levels from £18,600 up to a consulting on a bond that could have been used to higher point, and we chose to adopt the lower point, protect the taxpayer if someone needed public funds adding in elements for individual children, rather than later on? go down a route that would be available only to those There is also a wider problem about the gap between people who had capital and were able to put up a bond the Government’s rhetoric and reality.The Home Secretary in the first place. admitted yesterday that these changes to the family visa Changes in the numbers were also raised. The right will not mean “big numbers”, yet she said again today hon. Lady was right to refer to the net migration figure that she anticipates meeting her net migration target of shown in the last published set of statistics from the tens of thousands, even though the latest figures show Office for National Statistics, which includes migration net migration still at around 250,000. Will she tell us numbers up to September 2011. What she may have when she expects to meet that target? Does she still failed to look at, however, are the figures for student think it will be met by the end of this Parliament, in line visas thereafter, as we have seen a significant decrease with the Prime Minister’s promise—“No ifs. No buts.”— in the number allocated through to March 2012. that it would be met or are she and the Prime Minister [Interruption.] The shadow Immigration Minister, the making promises that they have no intention of keeping? hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant), says “That There is also a gap between rhetoric and reality on is good”, as though getting rid of abuse in the student visa deporting foreign criminals. The number of foreign system were not good. I am not surprised, because for criminals deported increased every year until the election, too many years Labour allowed too many people to come but since then it has fallen, year on year. It fell by 18% to this country claiming to be students when they were in the last financial year alone, as nearly 1,000 fewer not students. We are getting on with dealing with that. foreign criminals were deported in 2011-12 compared The right hon. Lady talked about the need to deal with the previous year. According to Home Office with deportation. We are increasing the enforcement briefings to the newspapers, the Home Secretary’s measures action that is being taken. All Governments have on article 8 will apply to 185 foreign criminals. Even if experienced problems in regard to the acceptance of an every single one of those article 8 cases had been individual as being from the country concerned and the deported, the Government would still have deported granting of the recognised travel documents on that hundreds fewer foreign criminals last year compared basis, but the right hon. Lady’s claim that this Government with the year before, and we would still have more are somehow failing in relation to immigration sits ill foreign criminals in the community instead. with the record of her Government over too many years. The truth is that this announcement does not deal Her Government failed to control immigration; this with the growing problem under the Home Secretary’s Government are controlling immigration. Her Government Government. Too many foreign criminals are staying in failed to end the abuse of student visas; this Government Britain—not because of article 8, but, in the words of a are ending the abuse of student visas. Her Government borders inspector, because of failed to deal with article 8; this Government are dealing with article 8. “difficulty in obtaining travel documentation” resulting from the Border Agency’s weaknesses in Several hon. Members rose— enforcement and administration. This is another example of problems that have got worse for the Border Agency in the last two years. Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): Order. I remind the House that in order to ask a question about the We will work with the Home Secretary to get the statement, a Member must have been in the Chamber to detail right and on some of the sensible points she has listen to it. made, but statements and parliamentary motions are not enough; she also needs to take action on the practical Mark Reckless (Rochester and Strood) (Con): I welcome problems that have got worse on her watch. the series of impressive and, dare I say, Conservative measures that the Home Secretary has announced. Given Mrs May: I thank the shadow Home Secretary for that thresholds are higher when children are involved, is supporting the action the Government are taking in there not a risk that people entering the country in some areas, and I hope she will be able to carry that order to marry will quickly have a number of children, support through when the motion comes before Parliament, and may therefore need state support although they are because a strong voice from this Parliament on article 8 above the original threshold? and the rules on family migration will be all the more effective in relation to the courts. Mrs May: I understand my hon. Friend’s point, but The right hon. Lady asked why we have chosen to I think that it would be highly unreasonable for the work through a motion in Parliament and immigration Government to tell people that they could enter the rules. We will change the immigration rules, and this country but could not have any children. When people Parliament will have an opportunity to make its voice first enter the country, they will be able to stay for a heard and to give its clear view on where it feels the limited period, and will then have to undergo a renewal framework should sit in respect of article 8. I have every process to establish whether they meet the requirements expectation that that will have an impact on how article 8 at all stages before they achieve settlement. is interpreted in the courts. The right hon. Lady asked why we had gone down Mr Jack Straw (Blackburn) (Lab): While, like my the route of the income threshold. We asked the independent right hon. Friend the Member for Normanton, Pontefract Migration Advisory Committee to advise us on what we and Castleford (Yvette Cooper), I do not recognise the 53 Family Migration11 JUNE 2012 Family Migration 54 parody of the last Administration’s immigration policy, removal of foreign national prisoners, but I profoundly I none the less welcome the decision about guidance on disagree with the Home Secretary’s proposals on spousal article 8. Young Amy Houston, aged nine, was killed in visas. The effect of that change will be directed against my constituency by a hit-and-run failed asylum seeker the British Asian community—not against illegal who subsequently invented a family life. Despite the immigrants, but against settled Britons who are here, very best efforts of the Home Office, my right hon. pay their taxes and contribute to this country. I do not Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull West and believe that the British Home Secretary should be Hessle (Alan Johnson) and me to pursue appeals, the determining who the spouse of a British citizen should appeal decisions were, I believe, incomprehensible to be based on an arbitrary limit—on an arbitrary financial most people, and that family have been left bereft. limit. I urge the Secretary of State to look again at these May I ask the Home Secretary two consequential proposals. She should look at the limits and see how questions? First, if it transpires that the changes in the this would affect a city like Leicester. immigration rules and the resolution in the House do not work as intended, will she introduce primary legislation? Mrs May: What I think is absolutely right is that the Secondly, will she look at the current practice whereby British Government should say that if somebody is the courts keep their judgments confidential in cases bringing somebody in here to be their spouse or partner, such as that of Mohammed Ibrahim? It was very difficult they should be able to support that individual and the even for me, as Justice Secretary and the bereaved father’s family life they are going to have. That is important, Member of Parliament, to get hold of the judgment of and that is what the Government are saying. The right that immigration court. Whatever the arguments may hon. Gentleman talks about the income threshold being be for confidentiality on asylum applications, there can, arbitrary, but it is not arbitrary. The Migration Advisory or should, be no confidentiality in cases such as this. Committee looked at various levels of income and this was the level it said was the point at which people could Mrs May: The right hon. Gentleman has made an generally support themselves without having to be reliant extremely important point. As he will have noticed, the on income-related benefits. It suggested a higher level to current Justice Secretary is in the Chamber and will us as well, but we chose this level. I think it is right that have heard what he has said. I am sure that we can people should be able to support the individual they are consider the right hon. Gentleman’s point about the bringing in to be their partner or spouse. confidentiality of judgments. The right hon. Gentleman referred to the terrible Lorraine Fullbrook (South Ribble) (Con): I welcome case involving the actions of Mohammed Ibrahim. the fact that an English language requirement has been Obviously, Paul Houston has been campaigning for introduced for foreign spouses coming to the UK. What changes for some time, and we expect the changes that further measures will be put in place to ensure that we are introducing to deal with such cases. The House those coming here legally can be properly integrated of Lords in 2007, and the Court of Appeal in more into our communities? recent cases last year and this year, have made clear the need for a statement from Parliament about where the public interest lies. The right hon. Gentleman is right, Mrs May: My hon. Friend raises an important point. and I am grateful for his support. This is not just about numbers; it is also about ensuring that people are able to integrate and participate fully in British society, and speaking the English language is an Mr John Redwood (Wokingham) (Con): I urge the important part of that. That is why from next year we Home Secretary to take the advice that if, peradventure, will raise the required level to intermediate level. We will a motion is not sufficient, this House will be very happy also require people to take the “Life in the UK” test, to to legislate to deal with the foreign prisoner problem, ensure that they have an understanding of life here in and will she also explore with the Justice Secretary the UK, because we want the people who come here to whether there are more foreign criminals in our jails be able to participate fully in British life, and to contribute who could serve their term elsewhere, and not at our fully to it, as I am sure they want to do. expense?

Mrs May: I thank my right hon. Friend for those Mr Frank Field (Birkenhead) (Lab): I welcome the questions, and they serve to remind me that I did not Home Secretary’s statement, as I have also welcomed answer the point made by the right hon. Member for her earlier, allied statements on this theme. The polls Blackburn (Mr Straw) about the next steps we might show that voters of all parties are concerned that our take if what we are doing does not lead to a change in population is growing primarily because of immigration. the sorts of decisions coming from the courts. If that is When all her policies are in place, what impact will they the case, we will, indeed, look at further measures, and have on that projected growth? they could, of course, include primary legislation. I can assure my right hon. Friend that both the Justice Secretary Mrs May: As I have made clear on several occasions, and I have an interest in trying to ensure that as many we are putting in place a number of policies that we foreign national prisoners as possible are removed from anticipate will lead to reducing net migration to the tens this country, including being removed to serve their of thousands. I have never been somebody who says I sentence elsewhere. expect the population of the UK to be a certain figure by a certain period of time, but I think it is right that, by Keith Vaz (Leicester East) (Lab): I support what the taking these actions, the Government will be reducing Government are doing on article 8, which is in keeping net migration, and that will have an impact on the with the Select Committee’s recommendations on the matter the right hon. Gentleman raises. 55 Family Migration11 JUNE 2012 Family Migration 56

Michael Ellis (Northampton North) (Con): I commend “I have never relied on the state…I would like to live a happy the Home Secretary on this move. Does she agree that life with my wife in my country of birth, why should the amount some of the judgments by judges hearing cases relevant I earn be a reason not…to”? to this issue have, frankly, been embarrassing and How does the Secretary of State answer my constituent? infuriating? Judges must be encouraged to consider the public interest first and foremost. If they are not inclined Mrs May: I say to the right hon. Gentleman what I to consider the public interest first, with this House have said previously. When someone wants to bring a having passed a motion on the matter, primary legislation partner or spouse to the UK, it is right that we have an must be given a high priority. expectation that they will be able to do so without relying on benefits. The income threshold set by the Mrs May: As I indicated in a previous response, on a Migration Advisory Committee is the level at which number of occasions the judiciary has, in effect, said to people are generally able to support themselves and a Parliament, “You need to set out what is the public dependant, which is the circumstance that pertains when interest and where the balance of public interest lies.” someone brings in a spouse or partner. The figure has That is why I expect that what we are doing in the not been plucked out of the air by this Government. immigration rules and the debate in Parliament will The Migration Advisory Committee looked at it very help judges in saying, “This is where Parliament believes carefully and this is the threshold that it proposed. the balance should be between the public interest and the individual’s rights.” Paul Uppal (Wolverhampton South West) (Con): Some years ago, a prominent immigration lawyer told me that the two main drivers of immigration are, first, the Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) (SNP): perception—right or wrong—that we have an overtly What discussions did the Secretary of State have with generous welfare system in the UK; and secondly, lax the Scottish Government about the proposals? Why was human rights legislation. Does my right hon. Friend she not open to the suggestion of variance in the agree that in this statement and through our welfare minimum income threshold, to match the variance of reforms, we are tackling those issues head-on? income across the United Kingdom? We in Scotland do not share her little conservative view of immigration; The shadow Home Secretary talked about a bond. we prefer to do things a bit differently. Does she not Does my right hon. Friend not find that ironic and think it is now time that we had our own powers over perhaps politically opportunistic, given that, when in immigration, so that we can match our community power, Labour considered such a measure but chose to needs in Scotland? put it to one side, but in opposition they sing a different tune? Mrs May: A regional variation in the income threshold was looked at by the Migration Advisory Committee Mrs May: My hon. Friend makes an important point, and rejected by that committee for a number of reasons. and he is absolutely right: when people look at which The committee looked at income versus public sector country to move to, there are issues to do with their costs in regions and the purely practical point that if we perception of the laxity or otherwise of the regimes had regional variation, the result could very well be operating in that country. What we are doing today on someone initially going to live in a region where the the immigration rules and article 8, our measures on all threshold was lower, in order to get into the country, the other aspects of immigration, and the welfare reform and then moving within the country. we are putting through, will have an impact. As for the bond, not only is it ironic that that is something that the previous Government looked at, but Tom Brake (Carshalton and Wallington) (LD): The of course it would make it even harder for the people to coalition Government must be firm but fair on immigration, whom the Chairman of the Home Affairs Committee so I welcome the income threshold that was eventually and the right hon. Member for East Ham (Stephen agreed. What flexibility or discretion will be available Timms) referred. for those who, for example, might not be able to pass the intermediate language test—perhaps for medical reasons—or who, for exceptional reasons, might have to Glenda Jackson (Hampstead and Kilburn) (Lab): It apply for family reunion while they are in the UK? is not unusual for individuals to have been brought to this country as small children by their parents from former British colonies and then to have lived for 40, 50 Mrs May: Obviously we are conscious that some or, as in one instance in my constituency, 60 years in this people will find it difficult to deal with the income country under the misapprehension that they had automatic threshold—perhaps a sponsor here who is disabled and British citizenship. If one of these individuals—someone may not have the same expectations of income as others—so who has lived all their life in this country, been educated there will be some ability to be flexible on that. The here, created a family here and, as in many instances, English language test is an important part of the scheme created businesses here—commits a crime and has to we are putting in place. I acknowledge what my right serve a prison term, should they be deemed to be hon. Friend says about people who, for a medical foreign and therefore be deported? reason, may have difficulty with that, but overall I think it is right that we have the test in the scheme. Mrs May: I made clear in my statement the thresholds that we believe should pertain in this instance, and that Stephen Timms (East Ham) (Lab): I was contacted by only in exceptional circumstances should somebody a constituent this morning. He is engaged and he earns who is committed to prison for four years or more, £16,000 a year. He says: having committed a crime, be able to claim family 57 Family Migration11 JUNE 2012 Family Migration 58 rights here in the UK and that deportation is normally Mrs May: I thank my hon. Friend for his commitment proportionate for those who have been imprisoned for to this issue, such that he is in the Chamber now. 12 months or more. I say to the hon. Lady about the [Interruption.] I have noticed that there have been one individuals concerned: I am sorry but if they do not or two leavers since the statement started, which may want to risk the possibility of being deported as a have something to do with what is happening in Ukraine. foreign national offender, they should not commit a He is absolutely right to say that the issue of confidence crime in the first place. is important, and I think that members of the public will be pleased to see that the Government have taken Mrs Helen Grant (Maidstone and The Weald) (Con): yet another step to bring some control into our immigration These proposals will help to tackle the scourge of the system. sham marriage. What other action is my right hon. Friend taking to address such issues? Dame Joan Ruddock (Lewisham, Deptford) (Lab): Among the two categories of people who come to me Mrs May: Sham marriage is a problem and it is right most frequently in my constituency are parents seeking that we should look at it. We are examining some to bring often teenage children to this country because further steps that could be taken to deal with it, such as the grandparents who are looking after them in Africa combining some of the powers of the UK Border Agency have either died or become unwell. Will the right hon. and the registrars to ensure that they have greater Lady say what the impact of these new measures will be ability to deal with what they consider to be sham on that kind of family reunion? Am I right in thinking marriages, should they appear. We have also stepped up that she has said that very elderly people who may not our enforcement activity. As a member of the Church have had the opportunity to learn English but are of England, I am sad to have to say that, as my hon. dependants of people in this country will have to pass Friend may have seen, there have been cases where the new intermediate English test? Church of England vicars have been undertaking sham marriages. I think that is appalling, but we have been identifying those cases and taking action. Mrs May: In relation to the right hon. Lady’s first point, we have made it clear that there is an income Jeremy Corbyn (Islington North) (Lab): May I ask threshold for people who want to bring a spouse, a the Home Secretary to think again about the answers partner or a child to the UK. On her second point, she gave to my right hon. Friends the Members for East which was on dependent relatives, we are tightening up Ham (Stephen Timms) and for Leicester East (Keith the system, but making it clear that it may be possible to Vaz) on spousal visas and family reunion? When she bring in an elderly dependant who requires a degree of carries out this impact assessment, will she examine care that is not available to them in the country in which the impact on communities and on families on modest they live. In such circumstances, it must be shown that incomes, who have every right to be together as a they will not be a burden on the state and that the family? In her impact assessment, will she also give personal care can be provided by the family. some credibility to the enormous contribution made to the economic success of this country by 60 years of Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): What will migration to our society and the great benefits given to be the effect of the package on asylum seekers who us? Could she not say something positive about the role come without their spouse or children? In particular, of immigrants in our society, rather than always repeating some asylum seekers fail to get asylum but cannot, for what the Daily Mail says? one reason or another, be sent back. There are also genuine asylum seekers to whom we are happy to grant Mrs May: If the hon. Gentleman were to look back asylum. Will they be able to bring their families to join at the speeches and comments I have made on immigration them? over the past two years, he would see that I frequently say that immigration has been a positive benefit to this country. But what I think is not good for this country is Mrs May: Asylum seekers will have the same rights to uncontrolled immigration. That is why this Government apply to be here in the UK as they have currently. The are bringing some control into our immigration system. package is for those who want to bring non-EU people We made it clear two years ago that we would look at as spousal partners; it does not affect people who are every aspect of immigration, and we have done so. We here genuinely as asylum seekers and who have been continue to look at issues associated with immigration, given the protection of this country. and it is absolutely right that we set out clearly what we believe are the parameters within which it is right for Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): Before the election, someone to be able to bring a spouse or partner here the Home Secretary said compellingly that she wanted to the UK. to be part of a family-friendly Government, but the proposals put a means test on family life for many Chris Heaton-Harris (Daventry) (Con): I congratulate people and mean that some parents cannot be in the the Secretary of State on making one of the most same country as their children or their spouse. She will important announcements of this Session in this House be aware that, currently, if a spouse applies for a visit today. It is so important that I am here to ask a question visa, they are automatically refused, because it is said about it instead of watching England against France. that they should be able to get a settlement visa. She is [Interruption.] I am doing my bit. There is a distinct ending the appeal against the refusal of visit visas, but lack of public confidence in our immigration system. Is will she change the arrangements so that, for example, not the best way to tackle that by introducing these fathers can at least come and be at their children’s sorts of measures, which strengthen public confidence graduation ceremonies as a visitor when families cannot as a result of strong, robust immigration measures? afford to settle here together? 59 Family Migration11 JUNE 2012 Family Migration 60

Mrs May: The hon. Lady refers to ending family visit Mrs May: We have indeed discussed the issue with visa appeals. It is right that we do that. It is the only the Ministry of Defence, and the current rules will immigration route that has a full appeal. It will be continue for the time being for both serving UK personnel quicker for people to put in a separate application for a and foreign and Commonwealth personnel. We are decision rather than appeal. All too often, appeals cases considering how we can revise what are called the part 7 are lost because further evidence is brought forward rules, which relate to foreign and Commonwealth personnel when it might have led to a different decision had it serving in Her Majesty’s forces, and in the coming been available in the first place. months we will consider very carefully what arrangement should apply in future. At the moment, transitional Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): Youngnewlyweds arrangements mean that the current situation will pertain in Britain are often supported financially by their parents. for those personnel. Would it not therefore be appropriate to allow the parents of sponsors to demonstrate such financial Mr Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con): I warmly commitment by contributing to meeting any income commend the Home Secretary for her statement today. thresholds applied under the new rules? It shows that we can come up with good, strong, Conservative statements and be popular with the British people. Our Liberal friends, take note. Mrs May: I understand the hon. Gentleman’s point. We are giving some allowance within the rules—with May I say to the Home Secretary that the reality must qualifications—for individuals’ savings, but we do not match the rhetoric? We gave a solemn promise at the think that it is appropriate to include money that somebody last general election that we would get immigration just says they can give to the sponsor. The measures are down to tens of thousands, and there has been far too about the sponsor showing that they can support the little progress. Will she recommit herself today to appointing spousal partner and/or children that they are bringing officials of sufficient quality and in sufficient numbers into the UK. to achieve that aim? Otherwise, there will be a huge democratic deficit. Nia Griffith (Llanelli) (Lab): Many in my constituency working in both the public and the private sector bring Mrs May: The figure of tens of thousands continues up a family on less than the proposed threshold. What to be the aim that we are working towards. My hon. equality impact assessment has the Secretary of State Friend is right that, as I indicated in response to the carried out on whether the threshold will have a shadow Home Secretary, the figures to September 2011 disproportionate effect on groups such as younger people, have still not shown a fall. If he looks at the subsequent British women who want to bring in a foreign husband, student visa figures through to March 2012, however, or those living in less prosperous regions? he will see a significant fall in allocations. That should have an impact on net migration figures in due course. Mrs May: The hon. Lady echoes an earlier question My hon. Friend tempts me down a route that I will about impact assessments. As I said, all the impact not go down, but I make fairly and squarely a point that assessments will be published when the immigration I should have made in response to an hon. Friend rules are laid. earlier: these proposals have been put forward by the coalition Government.

Nick de Bois (Enfield North) (Con): The Home Jonathan Ashworth (Leicester South) (Lab): I entirely Secretary’s proposals are very welcome, and my constituents reinforce the point that my parliamentary neighbour, will welcome them. Can she confirm whether the English my right hon. Friend the Member for Leicester East language test will be held under test conditions, and (Keith Vaz), put to the Home Secretary. Even if the whether identities will be checked, to avoid cases such threshold has been suggested by the Migration Advisory as those in which people have had other people take Committee, surely she must recognise that it is entirely tests for them? arbitrary and that many people in Leicester and other parts of the country are on earnings of nowhere near Mrs May: We are conscious of the problems that £18,000. Does she not recognise that many families who have existed in relation to some tests in the past, which settle in cities such as Leicester make a huge contribution is why we have already tightened up the rules. We will to the economy? What economic modelling has she continue to examine the tests to ensure that they genuinely done of the wider economic implications of these assess whether an individual—and the right individual— restrictions? fulfils the language requirements that the Government set out. Mrs May: A question that starts off by referring to the fact that the figure has been produced by the Migration Alison Seabeck (Plymouth, Moor View) (Lab): The Advisory Committee cannot, in the same breath, say right hon. Lady may be aware that my constituency has that it is “entirely arbitrary”. It is not arbitrary. The a strong military presence, including overseas servicemen committee considered very carefully the level at which and women. We have a significant number of Fijians people can normally support themselves and not depend serving in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, for on income-related benefits, and that is the figure we example. What discussions did she have with the Ministry selected. of Defence about the ability of those servicemen, who often sign up for more than 10 years at a time and are Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): obviously on lower incomes, to bring their families here From the Brighton conference reforms to the changes and keep them here? announced today, does my right hon. Friend agree that 61 Family Migration11 JUNE 2012 Family Migration 62 this Government have done more to address the legal out by Parliament. We are talking about the decisions misuse of human rights legislation in the past 13 weeks that the UK courts will take. On some aspects of the than the previous Government did in 13 years? immigration rules—my hon. Friend might not like my saying this—the European Court has taken a tougher Mrs May: I can give my hon. Friend a very simple view than the courts in the UK. Our intention is that and easy answer to his question, and that is yes. the courts in the UK should now have a clear framework so that they know when and how to operate and how to Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab): What balance the public interest with individual rights under discussions has the Home Secretary had with her colleague article 8. the children’s Minister, the Minister of State, Department for Education, the hon. Member for Brent Central (Sarah Mel Stride (Central Devon) (Con): Does my right Teather), about the implications of the announcement hon. Friend agree that it would be beneficial if, as a on the best interests of children? Will the Home Secretary result of her statement, we sent a clear message to the assure me that when she publishes the draft regulations judiciary that the right to a family life is a qualified and the Government’s impact assessment there will be a right that must be qualified in the public interest? full analysis of the implications for compliance with the UN convention on the rights of the child? Mrs May: I entirely agree with my hon. Friend. The Mrs May: We have considered that aspect of the European convention is absolutely clear that the right proposals’ impact and I can assure the hon. Lady that to a family life is a qualified right. What we are doing every relevant Department was involved in considering today and will do in due course when Parliament has its these issues, including the Department that contains the debate—and, I trust, supports the motion the Government children’s Minister. will propose—is saying very clearly to the judiciary, “Here is the framework and the balance you should be striking between the public interest and that of the Mr Stewart Jackson (Peterborough) (Con): I welcome individual.” my right hon. Friend’s announcement and believe that her proposals bear comparison with the robust policies pursued by the Labour party in Australia. She will Neil Carmichael (Stroud) (Con): I warmly welcome know that notable human rights lawyers such as Geoffrey the statement. On the question of sham marriages, is it Robertson QC have already said that in the absence of not conceivable that a forced marriage could fall into primary legislation, an indicative motion in this House that category? What measures does the Home Secretary would not fetter the discretion of or bind the European have to deal with that and what are her thoughts on that Court of Human Rights. Is it not therefore right that we subject? should still keep open the option of reviewing our membership of that body, with a possible option of Mrs May: As a Government, we are very concerned doing what Sweden did and temporarily suspending about forced marriages. We have decided to take the our membership? step of criminalising forced marriage, which we believe will send a clear message to people that it is wrong. It is Mrs May: I am aware that there are those who have right that the Government send that clear message indicated that they think that the courts will not pay the because forced marriage is wrong, it leads to abuse and attention that I expect them to pay to the framework set we should ensure that it does not take place. 63 11 JUNE 2012 64

Point of Order Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill Second Reading 5.43 pm Caroline Flint (Don Valley) (Lab): On a point of Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): The amendment order, Mr Deputy Speaker. Today, workers protested on the Order Paper has been selected. against the possible closure of Coryton oil refinery, which would result in more than 850 job losses and cost the local economy nearly £100 million. We understand 5.44 pm that a deal to keep Coryton open as a fully functioning The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and refinery could still be possible with the provision of Skills (Vince Cable): I beg to move, That the Bill be now state aid, as has happened in France. With just days left read a Second time. until Coryton ceases to function as a refinery, have you had any indication from Ministers at the Department of I recognise that we face serious competition this Energy and Climate Change that they plan to come to afternoon, but let me begin by putting the Bill in the the House to make a statement on the steps they plan to wider economic context. Our economic strategy has take to secure the future of the refinery? two key elements, one of which is to maintain a credible fiscal policy.That policy has led to this country’s borrowing costs dipping to record lows in recent weeks. If we were Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): Ihavereceived without a believable deficit reduction strategy, we would absolutely no indication at all that any Minister intends have been forced to adopt one by market panic. Although to come to the House today to make a statement. I am fiscal credibility is necessary, it is not sufficient. A sure that if that is the case, the House will be informed lasting recovery has to be built on the back of sustainable in the usual manner. sources of demand and, above all, exports and stronger business investment. We are seeking to bring that about in extremely difficult international conditions, though some encouragement can be derived from the fact that 630,000 private sector jobs have been created in the past two years—almost twice the number lost in the public sector. We also need to deal with the persistent imbalances that the previous Government did so little to address. Gross financial imbalances, a bloated banking sector and property speculation are not a basis for a sustainable recovery. A reliance on domestic demand and the neglect of exports has meant that we have been left behind in international markets. Legislation cannot, of itself, remedy those problems and generate economic activity, but the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill is an important building block none the less. This far-reaching package of measures will scrap the unnecessary bureaucracy that is holding back companies, overhaul the competition framework, and boost business and consumer confidence.

Jonathan Edwards (Carmarthen East and Dinefwr) (PC): Will the Secretary of State give the House categorical assurances that this House and the other House will not use the Bill to include the recommendations of the Beecroft review, with specific reference to sack-on-the-spot?

Vince Cable: I can give a categorical assurance. Of course, as the report has now been published, the hon. Gentleman may be aware that it contains a number of proposals, many of which are admirable, sensible, and being implemented, but on the particular proposal that he mentions, we will most definitely not be proceeding in the way that he outlines.

Joan Walley (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Lab): I am concerned that the Secretary of State could bring forward proposals in the Beecroft report that would make this an even more scrappy Bill. Does he think it important that his Department looks to bring about growth in the context of the green economy? I do not see the background for that in this scrappy Bill that he is bringing to the House of Commons tonight. 65 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 66 Bill Bill Vince Cable: We do see that as part of our mandate; The bank will also demonstrate the Government’s indeed, it is the first item that I will discuss in detail. lasting commitment to important green objectives. For Specifically to support enterprise, we propose legislating these reasons, I am sure the Opposition will welcome for a green investment bank—that, I think, is the issue and support its objectives, as I am sure the hon. Lady will. that is of concern to the hon. Lady. We propose improving the employment tribunal system and promoting resolution Luciana Berger: The Secretary of State may be aware of disputes—that, I think, deals with the first intervention. that a number of months ago the Deputy Prime Minister We propose giving shareholders of UK quoted companies committed money from the green investment bank to binding votes on directors’ pay; promoting competition capitalise the initial run of loans for the green deal, through a single competition and markets authority; which is supposed to launch in a few months, yet we strengthening powers to address anti-competitive behaviour; heard at the end of last week that a number of companies, and encouraging innovation and investment in design including British Gas and Kingfisher, are halting their by enabling copyright owners to prevent the importation plans to proceed with the non-profit-making green deal of replica products. finance company because the money that they are expecting To simplify regulation and strip away unnecessary from Government has not been forthcoming. Will the red tape, we propose extending the primary authority Secretary of State say when they should expect those scheme to more businesses, for one-stop advice; repealing funds to come forward? unnecessary regulatory requirements on business; and providing greater powers to time-limit new regulations—that Vince Cable: I am aware that the team currently working is, to apply sunset clauses to new measures. on this, UK Green Investments, has been looking at the green deal proposal. Of course it must be commercially Mr John Whittingdale (Maldon) (Con): Does the viable, as well as environmentally sound, and I cannot Secretary of State accept that copyright is the legal give the hon. Lady a precise answer as to when the team expression of intellectual property rights, and is not a will have completed its analysis. I think a good deal regulation? Is he aware of the widespread concern among more information is still required. the creative industries about clause 56, which will allow copyright to be amended by statutory instrument without John Healey: Will the Business Secretary confirm full parliamentary debate? Will he assure the House that the green investment bank will be able to raise that the Government will not change copyright in that funds from the capital markets? In other words, will it way without proper parliamentary scrutiny? be a bank that is able to borrow? If not, it cannot be described as a bank, and it is really just a fund. Vince Cable: Yes, I can give assurances on that. We will deal with this subject later, but I totally accept the Vince Cable: It has been described as a bank by the hon. Gentleman’s crucial point: intellectual property Financial Services Authority, which is the relevant regulatory rights are a key part of a market economy. They are not body, and it will be able to borrow after 2015 in capital “regulation” in the pejorative sense in which we normally markets, subject to the overall debt position of the refer to it—absolutely not; but we have to strike a Government at that time. It is a bank. balance between access to information and copyright protection. We think we are striking the right balance, Joan Walley: Is it not the case, though, that without and we are proceeding to implement the Hargreaves the certainty that it will be possible for the bank to report, which has many of those ideas at its heart. On a borrow on the open market, the first few years of the personal level, I introduced the private Member’s Bill green investment bank will be uncertain? We will not that strengthened criminal penalties for copyright theft, know definitely that it will be able to borrow when the so I have a long-standing interest in upholding that time comes. legislation. Let me deal with the first issue I mentioned—the Vince Cable: The bank will have the certainty of knowing green investment bank. The transition to a low-carbon that it has £3 billion committed to it from the Government economy is a very big challenge. Some analysis suggests and it is in the process of developing the projects to that there will be demand for more than £200 billion of utilise that efficiently. I shall point out to the House investment in the next decade to develop the innovative some of the steps that have been taken to provide that technologies and products that will underpin it. The concrete certainty about which the hon. Lady asks. challenge is all the greater, given the novelty of these markets and the long-term nature of returns on green We have formed the bank as a public company, infrastructure investment, which may deter private sector called the UK Green Investment Bank plc. It will be investors. There is a market failure here that the green headquartered in Edinburgh. I have appointed Lord investment bank will address. The bank will break new Smith of Kelvin as the chair and Sir Adrian Montague ground in the financing of projects, while demonstrating as the deputy chair. The bank will be funded with to the market that such investments can deliver commercial £3 billion to 2015, and the first £200 million of that has returns. already been allocated by UK Green Investments. It will have borrowing powers from 2015, subject to a Luciana Berger (Liverpool, Wavertree) (Lab/Co-op) quite proper test of improving public finances. The Bill rose— specifically provides for complementing this work by ensuring that the bank must have a statement of objectives John Healey (Wentworth and Dearne) (Lab) rose— clause in its articles of association. The Bill also embeds the bank’s independence, which Vince Cable: Let me finish, and then I will take is crucial for its success. To achieve this, the Bill requires interventions. me as Secretary of State to lay an undertaking before 67 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 68 Bill Bill [Vince Cable] Mr David Evennett (Bexleyheath and Crayford) (Con): I congratulate my right hon. Friend on his introductory Parliament not to interfere with the bank’s operational comments on this important Bill. Government Members independence or commercial activities as a condition of strongly believe in business, and we do not want to hold designation. I provided this undertaking to the bank on it back. On the other hand, we want regulation that is its incorporation. This will ensure that the bank operates necessary to protect the work force, and we want to help on commercial terms, funding these nascent and important them. We need a change in the law to help businesses environmental markets. grow and flourish.

Dr Eilidh Whiteford (Banff and Buchan) (SNP): I Vince Cable: My hon. Friend makes the point in a welcome the establishment of the green investment fair and balanced way, and he defines exactly what we bank in Edinburgh. What measures are the Government are trying to achieve. putting in place to ensure that small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from the green investment bank? Richard Fuller (Bedford) (Con): I am grateful to my Will there be a procurement code, as requested by the right hon. Friend for saying that he will have no truck Federation of Small Businesses? with compensated no-fault dismissal, but with many businesses, through the Institute of Directors and the Vince Cable: I do not think a specific procurement Federation of Small Businesses, making the case for code is required for this institution, though of course compensated no-fault dismissal, what representations Government procurement raises wider questions. If the has he had on that? Why has he been so strenuous in hon. Lady looks at the first tranche of commitments—the saying that he will have no truck with it? £200 million—she will find that that is for a fund dealing with a substantial number of waste projects, Vince Cable: I am happy to go back and look at the which have small-scale enterprises as part of their supply correspondence, but the Federation of Small Businesses, chain. That is the way that SMEs will benefit. as well as the Engineering Employers Federation, made it absolutely clear that they did not think that was a Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) sensible approach for business. (LD): Will the Secretary of State confirm that not only are the Government committed to the green investment Julie Hilling (Bolton West) (Lab): When the Secretary bank, which is a very good thing and has long been of State says that a great number of people have made called for, but that there is a wider strategy in his representations about employment regulation curtailing Department, the Department of Energy and Climate business growth, does he agree that it is only 6% of Change and the Department for Communities and Local employers who stated that employment regulation is an Government to make sure that we develop the green issue that concerns them? economy, producing a significant number of extra manufacturing jobs and apprenticeships and growth, and that that is a very significant part of the Government’s Vince Cable: I think the hon. Lady is referring to a policy as a whole? It is not just about a bank and survey of small business that my Department did. Indeed, £3 billion being lent over a certain number of years. roughly that order of businesses ranked that as their top priority, as opposed to market demand and bank lending. Vince Cable: My right hon. Friend is right. We have Even though it may not be at the top of everybody’s the Green Economy Council, which is an over-arching concerns, for many small companies there is a legitimate body representing the key Departments in the Government fear, as my hon. Friend the Member for Bexleyheath to make sure that our work in this area is integrated and and Crayford (Mr Evennett) pointed, about the tribunal properly joined up. system and the way it functions.

John Healey: If the referendum on Scottish separation Several hon. Members rose— is successful, will the Secretary of State relocate this green investment bank from Edinburgh back to England? Vince Cable: I will take one more intervention, then May I recommend that he considers Leeds and re-examines I will move on. the case for locating the bank in Yorkshire? Geraint Davies (Swansea West) (Lab/Co-op): Does Vince Cable: I have every confidence in the sense of the Secretary of State agree that the Beecroft proposals the Scottish people, and I have every confidence that the about no-fault dismissal amount to a charter for bank’s headquarters will remain viable and expanding intimidation and harassment, including sexual harassment? in Edinburgh. A boss could say to an employee, “Will you sleep with On employment law, the Government are acutely me?”, and if she said no, she could find herself sacked. aware of the need to do all they can to support business expansion and job creation. That is why the Bill contains Vince Cable: That is going rather further than I would provisions to reform the employment tribunal system want to go with the argument or the evidence. and encourage dispute resolution through conciliation. Smaller businesses have consistently told us that the Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab): The Bill fear of ending up in a tribunal is high up their worry list does not contain measures on some of the matters on and is a real disincentive to taking on staff. I have made which the Government are consulting in respect of it absolutely clear that I have no truck with the idea of a employment law, following the red tape challenge. Does free-for-all hire-and-fire culture, and responsible British the Secretary of State intend to bring forward more businesses do not want to go there either. proposals during the passage of the Bill—in relation, 69 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 70 Bill Bill for example, to employer liability for third-party harassment, John Healey: May I say how welcome the Secretary to the ability of an employment tribunal to make a decision of State’s balanced view is, in contrast to those of some that will then apply to all staff, or to the statutory Members behind and beside him? On the question of questionnaire? changing the tribunal system, what increase in resources will he make available to the Advisory, Conciliation and Vince Cable: I have no such proposals. There is nothing Arbitration Service if everyone who wants to put a stopping the hon. Lady proposing amendments for us claim to a tribunal must first put it to ACAS? to consider. Vince Cable: My experience is that colleagues behind Mr David Ruffley (Bury St Edmunds) (Con): In 2004 and beside me have a very balanced view of this Germany exempted micro-businesses from unfair question—we have no difficulties in this area at all. We dismissal-style protections. Has the Secretary of State will indeed rely heavily on ACAS and it is important looked at the German experience and noted, as I have, that it is properly resourced, so we will obviously have that youth unemployment there has halved, from just to look at that, but we have had no warnings that it over 12% to just over 6%, in the seven years since the cannot handle the processes that we propose to introduce. changes were made? If the right hon. Gentleman will let me, I will try to describe what those are. Vince Cable: As it happens, I was in Germany a few weeks ago—I unfortunately had to miss Business, Our reforms are not about removing individual Innovation and Skills questions—and one of the points employment rights; they are designed to ensure that the clearly made by the various employers I met was that tribunal system is fair to all parties and supports labour their procedure is far more cumbersome than ours, even market flexibility. They are meant to improve the prospect for small companies. Indeed, small companies are required of employers and workers sorting out problems through to adopt the two-tier system, a works consultation, reconciliation—ACAS-based dispute resolution—rather which is very cumbersome indeed. There is no evidence than the adversarial and costly method of going to that the German model, although admirable in many court, as my hon. Friend the Member for East Surrey ways—I wish we had many of its aspects here—in any (Mr Gyimah) admirably pointed out. Tribunals are a way helps to deal with this problem. costly and stressful process for everyone involved. Giving all parties a new opportunity to resolve disputes through ACAS will maximise the chances of resolving a problem Mr Brian Binley (Northampton South) (Con): I had without going to a tribunal. hoped to see in the Bill further measures taken from the German book, particularly the exclusion of micro- We want to do more to encourage parties to reach an businesses from many of the regulations that hamper agreed solution at an earlier stage. We will therefore them right at the start of their life. Is the Secretary of introduce an additional clause in Committee to ensure State willing to consider that and perhaps accept an that the offer of a settlement cannot be used against an amendment to that effect in Committee or on Report? employer in an unfair dismissal case. That will facilitate the use of settlement agreements, making it easier and Vince Cable: We will obviously look at any proposals quicker for employers and employees to come to an on their merits, but our current regulatory system does agreed settlement where an employment relationship is have a micro-business exemption and we test all our not working. proposals against that possibility. My hon. Friend should perhaps look at the FSB’s submission, because one of Julian Smith (Skipton and Ripon) (Con): I welcome the problems the small business sector often highlights the decision to move forward with settlements and is that it does not wish to be regarded as a second-rate compensation, which is a really good move, particularly tier of employment that is colonised by cowboy employers. for small businesses, and thank the Secretary of State It makes it very clear that it is small businesses that for listening to many Government Members who have resist the segmentation of the labour market. put the case for more clarity for smaller businesses. Mr Sam Gyimah (East Surrey) (Con): Does the Secretary of State agree that the current employment tribunal Vince Cable: I thank my hon. Friend for his positive system is not simple, transparent or inexpensive for response. The Under-Secretary of State for Business, employers, because for many of them dealing with an Innovation and Skills, my hon. Friend the Member for individual case or a class action-type case is incredibly North Norfolk (Norman Lamb), who will guide the Bill expensive and long-winded, and that serves as a barrier through Committee, will be able to develop that a little to businesses hiring new staff? They know that if things more, and any insights that my hon. Friend has for go wrong it is very complicated, so simplifying the improving that new idea will be warmly received. system and enabling them to deal with it without resorting to disputes should be the way forward in the Bill. Mr Chuka Umunna (Streatham) (Lab): Of course, if an employee and an employer have “without prejudice” Vince Cable: I totally agree with my hon. Friend, who discussions that involve an offer to pay off and for the anticipates many of the things I will say. He is absolutely employee to depart on that basis, at present that cannot right that the process is very cumbersome and time- be adduced at tribunal. The Secretary of State will consuming. There is currently an enormous backlog of know that a relationship of trust and confidence is 430,000 cases and it is very costly, particularly for small essential to the existence of an employment relationship. companies. The whole thrust of the changes I want to How does he see that working if an employer’s offer to introduce relates specifically to making the tribunal pay off has been refused by the employee who feels that system much simpler and avoidable where possible. there is no reason why they should leave? 71 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 72 Bill Bill Vince Cable: If the dispute is then unresolved, which There is a well-established case for the regulation of is the implication of the last phrase in the hon. Gentleman’s directors’ remuneration, given the inherent conflict of question, it would of course remain and would have to interest when directors set their own pay. Moreover, be resolved either through conciliation or, ultimately, a shareholders in a number of companies have shown that tribunal, so he is referring to an unresolved dispute they are increasingly angered by soaring pay for top rather than a resolved dispute. What we are specifically executives that is unrelated to company performance. proposing is that, if there is an agreement and the Their willingness to challenge rewards for failure is dispute is resolved, the matter cannot subsequently be admirable, but I want this “shareholder spring” to be raised in a tribunal case—[Interruption.] He shrugs his more than just a passing, seasonal phenomenon. shoulders, but our understanding, having talked with In developing our proposals, we have worked intensively business groups and trade unions, is that that would be with businesses and investors to create a workable package a very helpful step, and I think that that reinforces what that helps shareholders to hold directors to account, we have just heard. while avoiding unnecessary red tape on business and In addition, we are streamlining the tribunal process unrealistic demands for investors to micro-manage pay. itself, including providing for the introduction of a Responses to our consultation showed clear support for rapid resolution scheme, so that straightforward cases strengthened shareholder voting rights in order to improve can be dealt with more quickly, and reducing the burden the link between pay and long-term performance, while of resolution for users of the tribunal system and the still allowing boards the flexibility to devise and deliver taxpayer. pay policy. In the past it has been too easy for companies to Mrs Helen Grant (Maidstone and The Weald) (Con): ignore a significant adverse vote from their shareholders. Does the Secretary of State agree that the rapid resolution That is why the Bill includes a provision to give shareholders scheme will make it quicker, cheaper, easier and less binding votes on directors’ pay. We intend to introduce stressful to deal with those straightforward matters not new clauses in Committee, when we have analysed in only for employers, but for employees? detail the responses to our consultation and finalised our proposals in that area. Vince Cable: Yes, and I thank my hon. Friend for making that important point. It is not simply employers who have problems with the existing system; often Jonathan Edwards: What consideration has the Secretary payments are far less than the people who bring the of State given to creating remuneration bodies that cases expect, the process is stressful and lengthy and the include company employees? Surely such bodies would current system simply cannot handle the volume of have a wider remit and far greater buy-in. claims. In addition, there will be a discretionary power for Vince Cable: That is an issue on which we have employment tribunals to levy a financial penalty against frequently exchanged views across the House, and we an employer where there has been an aggravating breach do indeed want to see employee consultation, but we of an individual’s employment rights, which will also are not mandating employee representatives on boards, encourage employer compliance. Taken together, these which I know some people have called for, and we have measures will help shift the emphasis from confrontation made that very clear in the past. to conciliation when resolving workplace disputes and give businesses the confidence to expand and take on Simon Hughes: This is one of those issues that the new staff. Government inherited. It is the scandal, left by the previous Government, of absolutely obscene pay for Steve Baker (Wycombe) (Con): On the point about top executives—uncontrolled by shareholders. I therefore business confidence and taking on new staff, having welcome the proposals, but will my right hon. Friend worked as a freelance software engineer, one thing I see clarify that the Prime Minister and Government still missing from part 2 is anything to resolve the difficulties take the view that in the public sector the ratio should and ambiguities with the status of freelancers. Will the be a maximum of 20:1, and that in the private sector, Secretary of State use the opportunity in Committee to where it is not a matter for government to determine, all do something about IR35? shareholders will have adequate notice of any proposals, so that there is both private and public participation in Vince Cable: I am tempted to engage in a long disquisition the debate as well as a binding vote on the remuneration on that subject, having been involved in the debates on package for the executives at the top of private sector IR35 10 years ago. It is primarily a tax issue. As some companies? Opposition Members will remember, the IR35 measures were introduced primarily to avoid a particular form of Vince Cable: There are separate developments taking tax avoidance using national insurance, so if we have to place that do not require primary legislation, and they do more on IR35 we will look to my colleagues in the will improve the quality of information available to Treasury, rather than this Bill. shareholders. The Financial Reporting Council has Let me turn to directors’ pay. Fairness is important, responsibility for that, and I do not have the powers to and never more so than when the fiscal situation we direct it, even if I wanted to, but the quality of information inherited has forced upon us difficult decisions that is intended to improve, and we certainly want to see a affect everybody in society. That principle extends to range of information made available, including the executive pay, which for some years has behaved in a aggregates that my right hon. Friend describes, as well way that is unrelated to the rest of the economy or as simpler and clearer information. That process is performance. taking place in parallel with this Bill. 73 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 74 Bill Bill The Bill will improve the way in which competition is In addition, the Government have made a number promoted and policed. The UK’s support for a free and of proposals in response to the Hargreaves review of open trading system remains fundamental to our economic intellectual property and growth and subsequent strategy, and the steady pressure from competitive markets consultation. They are needed to ensure that the copyright ensures that businesses boost productivity and consumers system is fit for purpose in the digital age. It has been benefit. Our competition regime has been well regarded, decades since the intellectual property regime was but it can be too slow, and recently there have been overhauled, during which time the world has changed some worrying criticisms about how it has managed beyond recognition. It would be negligent to leave cartel offences. unchanged a system suited to the cassette recorder in an The reforms that I propose are designed to improve era of iPads and cloud-based music services. the effectiveness and efficiency of competition enforcement, Primary legislation will be required for three of those operating through a new competition and markets authority, reforms: the introduction of a scheme to allow extended backed by streamlined and strengthened powers. The collective licensing; one to allow the use of orphan works; current division of responsibility for the two phases of and, finally, a back-stop power to allow the Government the markets and mergers regimes, between the Competition to require a collecting society to implement a statutory Commission and the Office of Fair Trading, can lead code of conduct, should it fail to introduce or adhere to to a duplication of activity and the inefficient use of a suitable voluntary code. resources. Further, the time it currently takes to complete The Government’s proposals on extended collective mergers, markets and anti-trust cases is often far too licensing and on the use of orphan works are designed long, and that in turn imposes additional costs on to make it simpler for users to use copyright works business, including on those that pose no threat to legitimately, while protecting the interests of rights holders. competition. At the same time, introducing codes of conduct for Our reforms to the competition regime are designed collecting societies will provide valuable reassurance to to create a single, strong voice for competition and a the thousands of small businesses and other organisations, one-stop shop for business; to create greater certainty including creators, that deal with them. for business, thanks to faster, clearer and, indeed, statutory The Government are finalising their response to the time frames; to provide for more effective action to consultation on those three proposals, and if we decide tackle anti-competitive mergers, including the discretion to proceed we will want to move swiftly. The Bill presents to suspend them; and to provide for robust action to an opportunity to do so, and I shall announce a decision tackle cartels, which can damage business and consumers on the matter as soon as possible. alike, by removing, for example, the need to prove dishonesty. In addition, it will be easier for businesses to Geraint Davies: How does the strength of law on ask the new competition and markets authority to halt copyright compare with that on patents? I am thinking uncompetitive practices while investigations are ongoing. of the international duplication of a copyright, such as These measures go hand in hand with proposals, on on a chair, as the Secretary of State said, and how the which we are currently consulting, to allow businesses law will be enforced internationally. to take private actions to stop anti-competitive practices and to achieve redress. Vince Cable: I do not think that there is any link Another aspect of our reforms relates to intellectual between patents and copyrights in this case; they are property rights, an issue that the Chair of the Culture, separate systems of law. The hon. Gentleman will know Media and Sport Committee, the hon. Member for that in the European Union there is already a unified Maldon (Mr Whittingdale), raised a few moments ago. approach to patents and to copyright, but we are trying The modernisation of copyright is critical to investment to ensure that in the UK context copyright protection is in the UK’s creative industries, one of our most successful properly enforced. That is the purpose of the changes export sectors. Research by Imperial college and the before us. Intellectual Property Office shows that annual copyright investment in artistic originals in film, TV and radio, Mr Whittingdale: The Secretary of State will be aware books, music and art was about $5 billion, twice the that in the Hargreaves report a number of the proposals original estimate. Spending on UK design amounts to relating to possible extensions of copyright exception almost £33.5 billion, and there are about 350,000 people are causing real concern in the creative industries. Can in core design occupations of all kinds. he provide an assurance that they will be introduced not The sale of unauthorised replicas of classic designs, by statutory instrument, but in proper, primary legislation? such as a lamp or a piece of furniture, means that firms that depend on design can lose out, so the Bill ensures Vince Cable: I am not going to give the hon. Gentleman that those designs that are also artistic works and, a very precise answer because I will need to check on the therefore, qualify for copyright protection will be protected exact legal position. I am aware of the concerns, and he for 70 years from the creator’s death, instead of for the is one of several people who have expressed them. I will current 25 years. endeavour to reply to him in writing to give him the The Bill also creates an order-making power that will precise answer to his question. allow the Government to make any future changes A further set of reforms accelerates the Government’s related to copyright exceptions or exceptions to rights drive to tear up unnecessary red tape. We inherited over in performances. The practical consequence of that will 20,000 separate rules and regulations affecting business be to maintain the level of criminal penalties, in which in the UK. Cumulatively, this regulation stifles growth as I said earlier I have a personal interest, given that my and strangles innovation, and in the past two years we private Member’s Bill introduced the current maximum have launched a concerted drive to tackle the problem. penalty level of 10 years’ imprisonment We introduced the one in, one out rule to stem the flow 75 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 76 Bill Bill [Vince Cable] State to consider a way of reviewing the gold-plating of such legislation, especially where it applies to small of regulation to business. The aim of one in, one out is businesses. not only to force regulating Departments to deregulate more but to change the Whitehall culture to encourage Vince Cable: I have an open mind if the hon. Gentleman Departments to use regulation only as a last resort. has good ideas as to how that can be done. We have Under the red tape challenge, 20 regulatory themes have committed ourselves to removing the gold-plating of been launched for comment on the website, involving European legislation as it applies to Britain, and if he more than 3,700 regulations. Decisions have been has good, constructive ideas, we are happy to look at announced by Ministers on 1,500 of those, of which them. well over 50% will be scrapped or improved. Julian Smith: Has the Secretary of State given any Kate Green: How will the provisions of clause 51 on further thought to including EU directives and legislation repealing some of the provisions of the Equality Act 2010 in the quarterly statements that are being produced by in relation to the general duty and the good relations his Department? Earlier, he said in answer to a question duty have any impact on business whatsoever? of mine that he might consider it, and I would be interested to know whether he has done so. Vince Cable: I was going to mention that measure at the end of my speech. We see it essentially as a bit of Vince Cable: The Minister of State, my hon. Friend legislative tidying up; we are not going to argue that it the Member for Hertford and Stortford (Mr Prisk), has significant impacts on business. However, we can who has done admirable work in progressing this agenda, pursue the detailed implications. tells me that we are indeed planning to do that and that The Bill introduces further measures and makes it it will appear in that form. possible to include a sunset or review clause in any new secondary legislation to ensure that legislation is fit for Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): Following purpose and is regularly reviewed. It also extends business the dialogue that has just taken place, I am left unclear eligibility for the highly successful primary authority whether the Secretary of State agrees that agency worker scheme, which allows firms to get assured advice from regulations are gold-plated. If he thinks that they are one local authority on a particular regulatory issue. gold-plated, in what sense is that the case, and if he does Often what businesses find most bewildering is not the not think so, will he make that statement clearly? regulation itself—they recognise that rules are often necessary—but the inconsistent application of the rules Vince Cable: As I said, that case has been strongly so that they have to adjust their systems depending on made to us by people in the business community. I also the whim of a local official. The primary authority said that the directive’s current form in British law was scheme deals with that. the result of a consensus among the main social partners. Although the CBI has small business membership, it Mr Gyimah: On reviewing regulations that have already would not consider that area to be its primary function. been passed, one regulation that springs to mind is the If there are specific proposals on how some of the agency workers directive, where, on issues such as pay, gold-plating, if that is what it is, can be alleviated in a bonuses and holidays, we have gold-plated what Brussels sensible and fair way, I am always willing to look at originally introduced. In so doing, we have made what that. I do not have a closed mind on these issues. is supposed to be flexible, temporary work more like permanent work, which it should not be. Would we be Sheila Gilmore: I am still left unclear about the meaning able to review that legislation under the sunset clause of gold-plating, which, in my view, is a phrase that is that the Secretary of State mentioned? thrown around this House far too often. In what way does the Secretary of State think that there is gold-plating Vince Cable: This would not be the context in which in this respect? to do it, because it is, of course, now part of the law. We have looked at this in considerable detail because a lot Vince Cable: What small businesses usually mean by of concern has been expressed about it. The UK’s gold-plating is that they spend a great deal of time implementation of the agency workers directive came filling in forms, ticking boxes and complying with regulatory about as the result of a negotiated agreement between measures that impede their business activity. If that is employers and employees and their representative bodies. the case in this respect, as in others, we are happy to We explored the possibility of easing some of the look at it. burdens on business arising from the directive and came Also in a deregulatory spirit, the heritage measures to the conclusion that in practice we could not do so. in the Bill implement commitments to legislation made However, I hear the hon. Gentleman’s concerns, which in the Government’s response to the Penfold review of were expressed by many companies. non-planning consents, which aimed to ensure that non-planning consent regimes operate in the most flexible Mr Gyimah: I understand that the TUC and the CBI, and simplified way. The measures include bringing greater as European social partners, were very involved in the clarity on what is and what is not protected within negotiations between employees and business, but listing buildings, and they will enable owners and local representatives of small businesses were not, despite the planning authorities to enter into voluntary partnership fact that the impact of such legislation on small businesses agreements to help them to manage listed buildings can be particularly draconian. I urge the Secretary of more effectively. 77 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 78 Bill Bill The measures that I have outlined are designed to “no connected approach across government” improve the business environment and to help to restore to driving growth. He suggests that the Bill will change the UK economy to health by laying the foundations all this. Indeed, on the day of its First Reading he said: for lasting recovery. “The measures in the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill will help make Britain one of the most enterprise-friendly countries Katy Clark (North Ayrshire and Arran) (Lab) rose— in the world.” He said that it would resolve the ongoing issue of no Vince Cable: I am coming to the end of my speech. growth. That remains to be seen. I sincerely hope that I have acknowledged that legislation by itself will not that will be the case for the sake of our country, but solve the economic challenges we face, but these measures I and many businesses doubt it. will help to create a platform for sustainable recovery. I commend the Bill to the House. Julian Smith: I challenge the hon. Gentleman’s point that Labour left the country in a good regulatory state. 6.27 pm The CBI states that 107 of the 152 employment regulations were put on the statute book during Labour’s period in Mr Chuka Umunna (Streatham) (Lab): I beg to move, power. Was that leaving the country in a good regulatory That this House, whilst supporting the principles of the Green state? Investment Bank and affirming its belief that active government should work in partnership with business to encourage long-term Mr Umunna: What I cited was the World Bank’s sustainable economic growth, facilitate enterprise, protect the rights of all, particularly low-paid, workers and simplify regulation assessment of the state in which we left the environment where necessary, declines to give a Second Reading to the Enterprise for businesses to carry out their work. If the hon. and Regulatory Reform Bill because it does not provide a strategy Gentleman reads the guidance that has been issued by for economic growth; believes that the Bill contains inadequate his Government, he will see that we have been praised measures to boost business confidence, enhance this country’s for doing things such as introducing the primary authority international competitiveness, increase competition in consumer scheme, which was supposed to, and did, reduce the markets or protect consumers from powerful vested interests; regulatory burden on businesses. further believes that the Bill fails to provide sufficient support to empower shareholders, investors and employees on executive Perhaps the Secretary of State’s most damning criticism remuneration to bring to an end excessive rewards for corporate of his and his Government’s actions is that they are failure; and is concerned that the Bill grants the Secretary of State “frankly, rather piecemeal”. At first sight, that is precisely additional powers to alter compensatory awards for unfair dismissal what the Bill is. It is a hotch-potch of measures that and contains provisions relating to the conciliation process that provides no discernible overall vision or confident message. could dilute the rights of people at work. There is no evidence of a connected approach across I will deal with each element of the Bill in turn and, in Government to drive growth. so doing, explain our amendment. Given the very varied Business was straight off the blocks with its criticisms nature of the Bill, that will take some time, but I will do of the Queen’s Speech, the centrepiece of which was this it as swiftly as possible because many others want to legislation. The director general of the British Chambers take part in the debate. of Commerce said what many people have been saying First, I want briefly to consider what the Government for many months: claim the Bill will achieve overall. In January last year, “There is a big black hole when it comes to aiding business to not long after the Government’s spending review, the create enterprise, generate wealth and grow.” Secretary of State told this House: He is right. Our amendment makes it clear that the Bill, “economic growth is now strong. It will become stronger as a viewed as a whole, does not change that assessment. result of the work that the Government are doing in stabilising finances”.—[Official Report, 13 January 2011; Vol. 521, c. 429.] I will quickly go through the parts of the Bill and set Quite the opposite has turned out to be the case. Since out our position on each. the spending review, the economy has shrunk by 0.4%, we have been tipped into a double-dip recession, over Alok Sharma (Reading West) (Con): Will the hon. 2.6 million people are now out of work, and 50 businesses Gentleman give way? are going under every single day. That was not the case back in May 2010; it is now, thanks to the policies of Mr Umunna: I will make a bit of progress, because this low-growth Government. When my party left office, I want to ensure that there is time for others to get in. the World Bank ranked the UK fourth in the world and Part 1 will set up the green investment bank. I have stated first in Europe for ease of doing business. This year, we on many occasions, as has the Leader of the Opposition, have slumped to seventh place. Businesses face an that it is crucial to long-term economic growth to have increasingly difficult operating environment, not least an active Government working in partnership with the because of the problems that sound and successful private sector. In our view, the Government should work firms have found in accessing finance, with net lending with business to identify the sectors from which future to business contracting year on year in every month demand will come and to ensure that companies are set since this Government came into office. up to meet that demand. There is and will continue to In fairness to the Secretary of State, he has recognised be a growing demand for green technologies, so we need his and the Government’s failings. He said that they an active industrial strategy to support the low-carbon have no “compelling vision” for the country, that they economy, as I and my right hon. Friend the Member for lack Don Valley (Caroline Flint) have argued. “a confident message on how we will earn our living in the A critical component of that is the green investment future”, bank. That is why we set up the green investment bank and that there is commission in 2009 with a view to establishing such a 79 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 80 Bill Bill [Mr Umunna] projects that no one else is prepared to take, but must drive investment forward, taking the private sector with bank, and why we committed ourselves to establishing it, particularly in areas such as offshore wind, tidal such a bank in our 2010 manifesto. We will therefore power and carbon capture, which we have plenty of not oppose the bank—our amendment makes it clear opportunity to develop further? that we support it in principle. Also, I do not want to add further long-term policy uncertainty in this area, Mr Umunna: I could not agree more. The Government after the huge uncertainty that the Government have have committed to additionality and we will look to heaped on the low-carbon sector since coming to office. ensure that that occurs. I note that the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, Part 2 of the Bill relates to employment law, which has who has left his place, conveniently ignored the decision attracted much public concern. As I have said before, we on feed-in tariffs, which is perhaps the most glaring are not in a double-dip recession because of the rights example of the uncertainty that has been created. that people in this country enjoy at work. No amount of As the Secretary of State said, Lord Smith of Kelvin sabre rattling and nonsense from Government Members and Sir Adrian Montague were appointed as the chair about the need to allow employers to fire employees at and deputy chair of UK Green Investment Bank plc will is going to get us out of recession. That is a simple during the Whitsun recess. We welcome their appointment. fact. We are in a double-dip recession because of a lack Having heard what the Secretary of State has said, I of demand. Watering down employee rights will not suggest that until this entity is given the power to boost demand. In fact, it is highly likely— borrow and to lend, allowing it to leverage its initial equity to make more capital available, it will not be a Mr Gyimah: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? body that most people would recognise as a bank. It is a fund, whereas it is an operational bank that the country needs. The Secretary of State made has made it clear Mr Umunna: I was wondering when a Government that it will not be allowed to borrow—he repeated this Member would seek to intervene. I will give way shortly. today—unless public sector net debt is falling as a Watering down employee rights will not boost demand percentage of GDP in 2015. The earliest it is likely to be but is highly likely to do the opposite. As the Chartered able to borrow is therefore 2016. That is a delay of four Institute of Personnel and Development said last week, years from now. Ed Matthew, the director of Transform increasing job insecurity is more likely to damage growth UK, the business alliance campaigning for the bank to and consumer confidence than increase them. I say to be set up, put it well: the hon. Member for Bedford (Richard Fuller) that the “Allowing the bank to borrow is the key to generating growth Federation of Small Businesses has been in contact and rebooting the UK economy. Delaying this power until the with us today about the Government’s proposals to economy has recovered is like a doctor waiting for a seriously ill allow no-fault dismissal, with fewer employment protections patient to recover before giving him life-saving medicine”. for those working in small businesses, for which he has argued. It has said that David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): I am listening “those who do take employment in small firms could be lower carefully to the shadow Secretary of State’s comments skilled, less productive workers willing to accept lower protection, on the green investment bank. He has talked about the making it even more difficult for these firms to grow” importance of low-carbon industries. Does he agree and that that the scope of the green investment bank should include the nuclear supply chain, which is far and away “there is a question that with weakened rights, employees in small the biggest low-carbon industry in our country? That firms would find getting access to credit more difficult. If so, that would make labour recruitment for small firms even harder.” would enable us to lend to Sheffield Forgemasters, a company that I have heard him talk about many times. Mr Brian Binley (Northampton South) (Con): Absolute Mr Umunna: We will wait to see the detail that the nonsense! Government come forward with in Committee. We are clear that the bank needs to step in to fill the funding Mr Umunna: I say to the hon. Member for Bedford gap if we are to green our economy. It is with that in and to the hon. Member for Northampton South mind that we will decide our position, as and when the (Mr Binley), who says that that is absolute nonsense, Secretary of State comes forward with the detail. that I have quoted the Federation of Small Businesses word for word. It has made it clear that replacing the Joan Walley: To go back one step, what my hon. Friend need for good management with a hire-and-fire culture just read out about the need for borrowing powers was does not fit with its views on good employee relations. exactly the recommendation of the Environmental Audit Committee. In the Public Bill Committee, will he explore Mr Gyimah: There is a fundamental misunderstanding with the Government what progress has been made in here. It is a misrepresentation to say that any conversation respect of state aid rules to ensure that there is no about making it easier for both employers and employees impediment to getting this off the ground? to exit a relationship that is not working is an attack on workers’ rights. That is simply not true and it is not Mr Umunna: I will be happy to do that. My hon. what the Bill tries to do. The shadow Secretary of State Friend is, of course, the Chair of that Select Committee. has mentioned that we need growth. It is important to remove everything that stops investors being confident Ann McKechin (Glasgow North) (Lab): Does my enough to invest. Access to finance is one such thing, hon. Friend agree that the green investment bank must but so is the confidence to hire people. That is why the not be a bank of last resort that simply takes the Bill seeks to simplify the employment tribunals system. 81 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 82 Bill Bill Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo): Order. A to the success of their business, followed by issues such lot of Members are waiting to speak, so interventions as cash flow, taxation and finance. Just 7% cited regulation must be brief. as the main obstacle to their success. Let me be absolutely clear: we on this side of the Mr Umunna: I will expand on that point in more House will not countenance watering down the rights detail later, but what I can tell the hon. Gentleman now that every constituent of every Member of this House is that when I ask businesses what is currently holding enjoys in the name of growth. I should also note that them back, most say a lack of orders and demand, not Conservative Members—nobody has made this comment the rights that their employees enjoy at work. If we are today, but they have before—have been keen to present looking to encourage businesses to hire people, why not this as solely a union issue. It is not: it affects just about give all micro-businesses a national insurance break—I every working person in this country, regardless of believe he has a seat in the south-east—when they take whether they are a member of a trade union. While on extra workers? That would do more to help them everyone else has been worrying about losing their grow their businesses. job—thanks to the Government’s economic incompetence in my view—their rights at work have, frankly, been Mr Binley: I know that the shadow Secretary of State used as a political football in the Government, among admires experience. He knows that I founded two companies Departments and between the two governing parties. that collectively employ 260 people. He knows that we That does nothing to dispel the overall impression of deal with many, many small businesses, and I am involved shambles that hangs over the Government. However, with them on a weekly basis. I can tell him that many Minsters and those who have been briefing the media small businesses are frightened to take people on because on their behalf should also reflect on the huge worry they are frightened of being blackmailed, should it not that such briefing on employment law is generating work out. That is a real problem, which his party needs among those who work in our businesses, with all the to face up to. talk of further liberalising our labour market, which is one the most liberalised labour markets in the western Mr Umunna: I acknowledge the hon. Gentleman’s world. great wisdom and experience, but I respectfully disagree with his overall depiction of employees blackmailing Sandra Osborne (Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock) (Lab): their employers willy-nilly.I say that as a former employment Will my hon. Friend give way? law solicitor who has advised businesspeople like him, but employees too. Mr Umunna: I will give way shortly. Richard Fuller: May I point out that this is the The Secretary of State has quite rightly said that it is Secretary of State’s Enterprise and Regulatory Reform not the job of the Government to “scare the wits” out Bill, not mine? I am sure that mine would be somewhat of people, but that is what the Government have been different. The shadow Secretary of State talks about job doing— protection, and about the recession and demand, but does he accept that it goes a little deeper than that? Julian Smith: No it isn’t. Recent experience in the UK and the US shows that when we have recovered from recessions, we have not Mr Umunna: Yes it is: it is precisely what they have created jobs as swiftly as we did in the ’50s, ’60s and been doing with the promotion of the Beecroft report ’70s. In that context, does he not think it is worth by the Prime Minister and others. I should say that the looking at the recommendation made by Beecroft? Secretary of State is no innocent bystander. His little chat with The Sun on Saturday evening generated an Mr Umunna: I am not sure exactly which proposal article in that paper yesterday carrying the headline the hon. Gentleman thinks it is worth having a look at. “Quick Cash for Sack”. This hardly reassures vulnerable If he is talking about the proposal to allow no-fault employees who are anxious about their job security. dismissal in firms of fewer than 10 employees—which That article was, of course, the pre-spin for the new I believe is what he spoke about earlier—the answer is measure—which has been mentioned today—to prevent no. I do not agree that it is worth looking at, partly employees from using a pay-off offer as evidence in a because there is no evidence that having no-fault tribunal. The measure will presumably be inserted in dismissal encourages or helps firms to grow, as was the provisions in the Bill that deal with the new settlement previously made clear in business questions by the agreements. We were notified of the proposal only when Minister responsible for employment relations, the Under- I read my copy of The Sun yesterday, as it did not Secretary of State, the hon. Member for North Norfolk appear in the Bill or the explanatory notes, so we have (Norman Lamb). not had proper time to consider it. At first sight, it is I do not deny that employment law and regulation questionable whether it would work in practice. As a more generally are matters of concern for small businesses. former employment lawyer like me, the Minister responsible It would be absurd of me to make such a claim, and for employment relations will know that essential I am not making it. However, it is the state of our components of an employment relationship are trust economy that has been consistently identified by small and confidence between the parties. How on earth can and medium-sized enterprises as the main barrier to trust and confidence continue to exist if a pay-off offer their success. We know this because that is what they is made out of the blue when the employee has done have been telling Ministers. In the Government’s latest nothing wrong and decides to reject the offer? What “SME Business Barometer”—which I think the Secretary happens then? This needs further clarification. So too of State mentioned earlier—32% of SME employers do the Government’s intentions in relation to the said that the state of the economy was the main obstacle employment law provisions of the Bill and the Beecroft 83 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 84 Bill Bill [Mr Umunna] With regard to what is in the Bill, our amendment makes it clear that the proposals to grant the Secretary report, because, further to the questions that Labour of State new powers to vary the limits for compensatory Members have asked the Secretary of State, I am no awards in unfair dismissal cases are totally unacceptable. clearer about how many parts of the Beecroft report Clause 12 proposes to give the Secretary of State the will potentially be inserted in the Bill. power to cap the compensatory award, which is currently capped at £72,300, at a maximum of between median earnings and three times median earnings—that is, between Julian Smith: I assume that the hon. Gentleman, as a £26,000 and £78,000—or one year’s earnings, or whichever former employer lawyer, was involved in negotiating is the lower of the two. No advance warning of this compromise agreements. Surely the proposals that we measure was given, and there has been no consultation are discussing this evening are just simplified compromise on it. Why? It is also hard to see the justification for the agreements for smaller companies which will be much proposal when we consider that the median award for easier to administer and will not involve payment of the unfair dismissal came in at just over £6,000 in the past fees that I am sure he earned advising bigger companies year. on such agreements. The practical effect of the proposal would be that those on average or above-average earnings—middle Mr Umunna: No, the hon. Gentleman is wrong. As income earners in particular—would not be properly things stand, the position in law is that if a pay-off offer compensated if they were treated unfairly by their employers. is made during a “without prejudice” discussion between Let us be clear who we are talking about. This would an employee and an employer—which would take place affect accountants, architects, chartered surveyors, insurance if there was an ongoing dispute—that cannot be adduced brokers, lawyers and mechanical engineers, as well as as evidence in court. However, if a pay-off offer was many other public service professionals. Those people made out of the blue where there was no pre-existing are all in occupations that attract average or above-average dispute, that could be adduced as evidence. What I earnings. Lower income earners in this country have discern from what is being proposed is that the Government already been hit hard by the Chancellor’s Budgets since are seeking to ensure that that situation is covered too, this Government came to office. It is middle income so that such an offer could not be adduced in evidence earners who stand to suffer most from this change. Of in court either. [Interruption.] I believe that the Minister course, those earning millions every year—who have responsible for employment relations is agreeing with just been given a huge tax break by the Government—no my interpretation. My issue with that is that if an doubt have plenty in the bank and will not have to employee in a firm is quite happy and believes that they worry about this, but that does not apply to the majority have done nothing wrong, but the employer does not of earners in this country. like them for some reason, decides that they are going to get rid of them and offers them a set sum, the employee should be able to adduce that as evidence to Julian Smith: Does the shadow Secretary of State show that the employer was intent on getting rid of think it reasonable that, in 1999, the compensatory them come what may. That is the point that I am award level was £12,000 and that it is now £72,300? seeking to make. Does he think that it has gone up by a reasonable amount over that period? Further clarification will be needed. However, let me once again ask the Secretary of State—I will give way to Mr Umunna: I think it is reasonable, when people him on this point—how many parts of the Beecroft have been treated in an appalling and unfair fashion by report are going to be inserted in the Bill by way of their employers, that they should be properly compensated. amendment, if any. He has—I think—been clear with us today that the proposal for a no-fault dismissal The Bill contains a related measure to give the Secretary measure, on which the consultation has just closed, will of State the power to vary compensatory awards for not feature in the Bill. How many other parts of Beecroft employers of different descriptions. The Employment are likely to feature in the Bill through amendments? Lawyers Association, of which I used to be a member, I am happy to give way to him if he is willing to answer said last week that having different rules for micro- that question. businesses, for example, would make people think twice about working for small businesses, knowing that they would have less employment protection than if they Vince Cable: As far as I am aware there are none, but worked for a large employer. the hon. Gentleman will be aware that the Beecroft report covers a wide range of activities, including things We have no objection in principle to the proposal to such as immigration control, which clearly do not belong introduce early conciliation by ACAS in advance of the in this Bill. However, as far as I am aware, no other full submission of a claim to the employment tribunal. I provisions are allowed for in this case. understand, however, that the Government intend to spell out more of the detail in secondary legislation. It is therefore essential that any future regulations be subject Mr Umunna: I am slightly surprised by that answer to the proper scrutiny of the House. Early conciliation because of the equivocation. The Secretary of State will result in a claimant who is seeking redress having to commissioned the report—it was his report—and this is go through two different processes, with different time his Bill, so surely he can provide us all with a categorical limits and different forms to fill in, before instituting a assurance now that no elements of Beecroft will feature claim. It will therefore be important to ensure, particularly in the Bill. I am happy to give way again, if he wishes to in relation to unrepresented claimants or those with clarify that point. No? I think that people will note his poor literacy and numeracy, that the new regime does failure to reply. not act as a barrier to justice for those seeking redress. 85 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 86 Bill Bill Above all, it will be important to ensure that ACAS is that any decision made by those officers should be able properly resourced to carry out its proposed new expanded to be reviewed by an employment judge if either party role. We know that its resources have already been so wished. We are currently considering a four-track reduced. The Secretary of State and his Ministers will system: simple claims covering issues such as amounts need to give proper assurances and guarantees that it of holiday pay could be dealt with outside the tribunal, will be properly resourced to carry out this work. perhaps by a legal officer; standard unfair dismissal The Bill also contains measures relating to the claims would be dealt with by tribunals in the usual composition and workings of employment tribunals. way; complicated equal pay claims could be dealt with As I have said before, we are not opposed to reforming by a specialist court; and high-value claims could the way in which employment tribunals work, given the automatically be dealt with by a higher court. frequent problems that employees and employers experience We do not welcome the Government’s proposal that while navigating their way through the system. That is all employment appeal tribunal cases be heard, in the why we supported the establishment of the Underhill main, by a judge alone, instead of by a panel including review. However, that is quite different from tampering lay members. We oppose that—[Interruption.] The Under- with people’s fundamental rights at work, which we oppose. Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the hon. Member for North Norfolk (Norman Lamb) Geraint Davies: Is my hon. Friend aware that, in says, “For goodness’ sake”, but lay members are very Wales, 70% of procurement goes to small and medium-sized much welcomed by employees and employers as they enterprises, half of which are based in Wales? In England, provide balance and perspective to deliberations. That however, the figure is around 7%. Would it not be a extends to deliberations in the employment appeal tribunal better strategy for rejuvenating small businesses in England on legal issues. if we were to focus the power of procurement—green Before I move on to the competition aspects of the procurement in particular—on those businesses, rather Bill—I am aware that I am going on—I want to mention than slashing the rights of the people who work in that there are other employment proposals that we will them? address in more detail in Committee.

Mr Umunna: I certainly agree that we should increase Mr Binley rose— the procurement opportunities for our SMEs. When we were in government, we put in place a number of Mr Umunna: I will make some progress, so that the targets, which this Government have sought to build on. hon. Gentleman will have more time to speak later. We should certainly ensure that those businesses have better access to those opportunities; I speak to many Principally, those proposals include: the provision such businesses that tell me that they do not. of financial penalties to be paid by employers where there are aggravating features to their wrongdoing; the introduction of a public interest test to whistleblowing— Stephen Pound (Ealing North) (Lab): Further to my which we have concerns about—to clear up the uncertainties hon. Friend’s point about the additional costs and in that area; and changes to the annual increases to the duties that will descend upon the shoulders of ACAS, limits to statutory redundancy pay. does he agree that this Government have a poor record, particularly in the area of the fitness to work test? What I will now deal as quickly as possible with the competition might seem to be a saving often ends up costing them an aspects of the Bill. Healthy, competitive markets reward enormous amount of money. I do not wish to distract the innovator, the insurgent, and the risk taker. They him with the good news that has just reached us of the keep incumbents on their toes, benefiting consumers, inspirational leadership of Roy Hodgson in Donetsk—I and they create the disciplines at home that drive success believe that 1-1 is the precise figure—but does he see a abroad. That does not happen by itself, however, because need for primary legislation or orders to provide the markets are not always efficient. I know that that view is additional sums that ACAS will inevitably require, or not shared by all Government Members. So even when does he think that an amount of money been put to one policy frameworks can correct market failures, markets side for the purpose? ACAS will be facing a heavy require active stewardship, constant vigilance against demand and will require a great deal of money. unhealthy concentrations of power—News International —and, above all, the deliberate promotion of competition Mr Umunna: First, I thank my hon. Friend for that through a strong, robust competition regime. update from the European championship— The Government said in their consultation paper on options for reform published last year: Stephen Pound: Full time! “The Government acknowledges that it has inherited a competition regime which has been independently assessed as world class.” Mr Umunna: I stand corrected. On my hon. Friend’s In 2010, the Global Competition Review awarded the point about the resourcing of ACAS, we do not know Competition Commission its highest rating of five stars, what its budget will be for the next three years. We shall and the Office of Fair Trading was awarded four and a study that question carefully in the light of the, I think, half stars, with both bodies appearing in the top five £12 million reduction in its budget over the recent agencies in the world. We Labour Members are rightly period. proud of the legacy our Labour Government bequeathed I shall return to the composition of employment to the current Conservative-led Administration. tribunals. The Bill envisages simple or low-value claims In principle, we support the Bill’s proposals to improve being decided by a legal officer without the need for a our competition regime. There is definitely some sense hearing. That might assist in the rapid resolution of in combining the OFT and the Competition Commission disputes, which would be welcome, but it is important into one body, removing duplication and concentrating 87 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 88 Bill Bill [Mr Umunna] This Government have an image problem. They are seen as out of touch, and they are seen as implementing expertise in one place. However, the yardstick against policy changes that adversely impact particularly on which we will measure these reforms is whether they vulnerable and poor people. Just yesterday, the Prime will improve on the existing regime or not. The OFT Minister’s former speech writer said the Government’s estimated that in ensuring a level playing field, our latest proposals on immigration policy showed that the competition regime benefited businesses and consumers Conservatives were a “nasty party” that risked losing to the tune of £700 million last year. As the Financial votes among ethnic minority communities. In this context, Times has pointed out, the expected savings of £1.3 million why on earth are this Conservative-led Government a year from the merger could be smaller than the cost to seeking to repeal this general duty that seeks to promote consumers and businesses if these reforms change our fundamental values of humanity and decency in our competition regime for the worse. society? I am at a complete loss to understand why they In addition, the lack of competition is, sadly, nowhere should seek to do this when that duty enjoyed cross-party more stark than in the small and medium-sized enterprises support when the Equality Act 2006 progressed through lending market where 85% of SME lending is concentrated Parliament. in the hands of our four biggest banks. This can be The Government also want to change the commission’s contrasted with Germany, where just 14% of business statutory remit, contract out its helpline, stop its grant loans come from its biggest banks and 60% come from programme and slash its budget by 60%. This is not its smaller local and co-operative banks, which I met regulatory tidying-up; it is undermining the effectiveness when I was in Germany in February. It is a shame that and independence of the organisation. If what we are the Government have shown no interest in pursuing the seeing here is the beginning of the end of the commission— idea that we have been promoting for some time—of and in the light of what I have said, it is entirely having a British investment bank to help address this reasonable to raise this as a question—for the avoidance issue. It is a concept that enjoys the support of the of doubt, let me say that this party will fight tooth and British Chambers of Commerce, among others. We are nail against any such move. also concerned about the withdrawal of consumer competences entirely from this new body. Indeed, we Finally, I shall deal with part 6, which puts in place have argued that the Queen’s Speech should have delivered additional measures to deal with executive pay. In order a fair deal for consumers with a consumers Bill that to build a more productive and responsible capitalism, would give new powers to the Financial Conduct Authority it is important to ensure we bring an end to excessive and the Competition and Markets Authority to stop pay and rewards for failure, which are bad for our rip-off surcharges by banks, low-cost airlines and pension economy and for our businesses. The Prime Minister firms. and the Chancellor have sought to insinuate that proponents of reform in this area are being “anti-business”, but the Let me move on to part 5, which deals with the recent wave of shareholder revolts has shown just how reduction of regulatory burdens. We should seek to out of touch they are with business and investor opinion reduce regulatory burdens where we can, but—very on these issues. Shareholders at Citigroup, Credit Suisse, importantly—not by compromising the rights of employees Barclays, Mann Group, Aviva and other companies have or the health and safety of employees and customers. all either been protesting or voting against remuneration This is an issue not just of the quantity of regulation, packages over this last couple of months. WPP shareholders but of its quality, too: regulations should be drawn up will be voting on the remuneration of that company’s with the small guy in mind—people who do not have senior executives later this week. the resources to pay for an army of lawyers, accountants and risk managers to advise on how to ensure compliance. In fact, the highly respected business leader, Sir Michael As I said earlier, with that in mind, when in government, Darrington, the former group managing director of we introduced the primary authority scheme so that any Greggs plc, has founded a pressure group—“Pro-Business, business operating in multiple local authorities could, Against Greed”. Its aim is to reduce the excessive and to ease the regulatory burden locally, form a partnership growing difference in net pay between the highest paid with a single local authority to access advice and support and the majority, which he says for its regulatory responsibilities. I welcome the fact “is intended to help promote a happier, healthier and fairer that the Government seek to extend the scope of the society as well as being better for pensioners and investors.” scheme through the Bill. We congratulate him on that initiative because change What are far less welcome in part 5 are the measures and reform must be led by people like Sir Michael, who touching on the Equality and Human Rights Commission, is also a shareholder in Aviva and Trinity Mirror, with which the Secretary of State has just referred to as Government backing. “regulatory tidying-up”. This Bill seeks to amend the Equality Act 2006 by repealing the commission’s general In government—it is a shame that the right hon. duty to exercise its functions with a view to encouraging Member for Bermondsey and Old Southwark (Simon and supporting the development of a society in which Hughes) is not in his place to hear this—we started to people’s ability to achieve their potential is not limited improve corporate governance in this area and to empower by prejudice or discrimination, in which there is respect shareholders. We introduced advisory shareholder votes for and protection of each individual’s human rights on remuneration reports, which are creating so many and respect for the dignity and worth of each individual, headlines at present. It is not fair to say that we did in which each individual has an equal opportunity to nothing about this matter in government. participate in society, and in which there is mutual Currently, there is a prohibition in statute on the respect between groups based on the understanding and remuneration of executives of quoted companies whose valuing of diversity and on shared respect for equality pay is contingent on the outcome of a shareholder and human rights. resolutions. This Bill will remove that prohibition, paving 89 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 90 Bill Bill the way for further reform. It will enable the Government and if we do not make enough progress to enable all of to build on our reforms by, for example, having an them to do so, it may be necessary for the limit to be annual binding vote on future remuneration policy, reduced further. increasing the level of support required on votes on future remuneration policy and so forth. I was glad to 7.10 pm hear the Secretary of State confirm that he intends to Mr David Ruffley (Bury St Edmunds) (Con): It is bring those reforms forward as amendments to the Bill always a pleasure to listen to the hon. Member for as it passes through this House. That is welcome. Streatham (Mr Umunna), who invariably makes his On the annual binding shareholder vote in particular, case with courtesy and rationality, but on this occasion we agree with the suggestion put forward by asset I do not agree with the thrust of his speech. managers Fidelity Worldwide Investment that a 75% Making the United Kingdom economy much more majority should be required in respect of a binding vote competitive is vital if we are to weather the storms on future remuneration policy. I would be interested to following the fallout from the eurozone catastrophe hear what the Secretary of State thinks of that, as I while also facing the inexorable rise of far-eastern economies. must say that it was with great disappointment that we Deregulation is a key part of that. read that he is likely to row back not only from that All Governments launch initiatives to create bonfires proposal, but from the one to have these votes on an of regulation and to slash red tape. But is it not remarkable annual basis. That represents quite a watering down of that the intended beneficiaries of such anti-regulation his initial proposals. If he would like to disabuse me of drives so rarely tell Members of Parliament that they that, I would be happy to give way to him now. believe that the regulatory burden has been reduced? After 15 years in the House, I have yet to meet a Vince Cable: Current thinking—we are yet to report business constituent who has said that. In each year of back to the House formally on the consultation—is that the last Parliament—this will be the only instance of my there will be annual votes if pay policy is changed by straying into the realm of party-political knockabout—the companies. The investor community made it absolutely Labour Government created six new regulations every clear that it sees that as a much more productive way of working day, and as a result the coalition Government progressing its concerns. have a massive burden of over-regulation to identify and, in my view, eliminate. Mr Umunna: I am glad to hear that, but I wonder The changes relating to employment in part 2 of the where all the briefing in the Sunday newspapers yesterday, Bill are certainly needed. The number of unfair dismissal including The Sunday Times, The Sunday Telegraph and claims doubled from 100,000 in 2002-03 to 218,100 in others, came from. I am sure that the Treasury had 2010-11. That is a staggering increase, and, according to absolutely nothing whatever to do with that. We, of the Under-Secretary of State for Business, Innovation course, have already called for the full implementation and Skills, my hon. Friend the Member for North of the High Pay Commission’s recommendations, including Norfolk (Norman Lamb), it costs businesses an average the proposals for employee representatives on remuneration of £4,000 to defend each claim. It is hardly surprising committees, which the Government continue to refuse that employers say that they are discouraged from taking to implement. on new employees at the margin, especially at a time when On copyright, the proposals in clause 56 to amend business confidence is so low. the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, which Let me give a parochial example. Two self-made I think the Secretary of State mentioned, are broadly businessmen, one working in food retail and the other drawn and, in our view, need greater clarity, not least to in furniture retail—both started with nothing, and both indicate that this power cannot be used to weaken the are very good employers—told me that the chief factor copyright regime. in the decision whether to take on new employees this Let me conclude. It has admittedly been something of year was the problem of unfair dismissal claims and marathon working through this Bill because it is such a vexatious claims. Both had had unfortunate experiences hotch-potch of measures. As I have explained, there are in the last year. I visited their companies, and I do not parts of the Bill, taken separately, that we support in think that they were telling porkies. principle and will seek to improve in the later stages. We should not accept the caricature presented by However, other parts, particularly relating to employment, some Opposition Members who have suggested that are, as drafted, simply unacceptable. Yet again, after liberalising the labour market even further is an exclusively going through all this, we find ourselves back where we right-wing idea. Those who follow these matters carefully started: in a big black hole when it comes to helping rather than jeering in the cheaper seats in the back will businesses to create enterprise, generate wealth, and know that, according to the distinguished left-of-centre grow. There is no compelling vision, no confident message employment law professor Pietro Ichino—he is very about how we are to pay our way in the world, and no much on the left of Italian politics—there is an equality connected approach across Government to drive growth. issue between the very well-protected employed and the That is the point that we sought to make in our amendment, unemployed who stay unemployed because of over- which I commend to the House. regulation in the market. Unfortunately, although the Secretary of State has Several hon. Members rose— already raised the qualification threshold for unfair dismissal from one to two years, he has ruled out exempting small Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo): Order. businesses—micro-businesses—from various employment Before I call the next speaker, I must inform the House laws. Perhaps the Minister will explain why the Government that all Back-Bench speeches will be limited to eight have turned their face against exempting businesses that minutes from now on. Many Members wish to contribute, employ fewer than 10 people from the full panoply of 91 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 92 Bill Bill [Mr David Ruffley] investment in the wake of this year’s Budget from 7.7% to a pitiful 0.7%, which is well below the forecast for unfair dismissal law when it comes to young workers. Germany and the United States, while in Scotland, the The high cost of youth unemployment surely suggests Bank of Scotland’s purchasing managers index revealed that we should try that, if only for a limited period, to only this morning that private sector growth was at a see what the results are. I should have thought that 17-month low. those who are worried about youth unemployment could The Bill should therefore have presented an not disagree with such a proposition for a minute, but if opportunity for a radical change of course. It should they are not satisfied with my argument, what about the have started the process of dealing with the crisis of evidence? lack of economic demand, as well as the shortage of In 2004, businesses in Germany with fewer than work in our country, which means that 20 people chase 10 employees were exempted from the requirement to every job advertised in my constituency, and the lack of provide cause when letting an employee go. Before that, business investment, particularly in the green economy. the threshold was only five employees. Did unemployment With youth unemployment standing at over 1 million, rise as a result? No, it did not. In 2005, overall the Bill should have made it easier to hire young people unemployment in Germany was more than 11.5%; now through an employers’ national insurance holiday, and it is 7.5%. Among those under 25, it has fallen from have started to tackle the crisis of underemployment in 12.5% to 6.3%. That is due not only to the slightly more our country, with 6.3 million people crying out for relaxed regime for small businesses in Germany, but to full-time work but unable to find it, rather than promoting the fact that mini and midi-businesses were subject a failed ideology by making it easier to fire people. to much more generous and simpler social security The Bill fails to acknowledge that the Government contribution regimes. The hon. Member for Streatham promised they would grow the economy and cut debt, suggested national insurance breaks for small businesses yet since the 2010 spending review they have shrunk the employers, and I am sympathetic to that idea, but the economy and grown national debt. They choked off the evidence shows that the exemption system worked in economic recovery that was taking root under the previous Germany. Government in early 2010, and have instead presided over the slowest emergence from a slump since the long Mr Umunna: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? depression of the 1870s. Mr Ruffley: No, I want to make some progress. We were told that, by slashing the public sector quickly Part 5 deals with legislative burdens more generally. and deeply, the invisible hand of the private sector Clause 49 proposes an increase in Ministers’ power to would be free to guide a strong recovery. Who among introduce sunset provisions, and I welcome that. We Members on the Government Benches would credibly may be one of the first countries to use sunset clauses as make that claim today, when in this financial year, with a matter of course in all regulatory policy. Some states, the cuts in public spending due to start biting hard, the such as Germany, use them sporadically, but no EU OBR has downgraded its projected growth for the states use them systematically, and not even the United economy from 2.5% to 0.7%, followed by the OECD States uses them across the board. Our Government are and the Bank of England? leading the way in reducing regulatory levels by providing Our financial system is failing to generate credit to for their use in all legislation, as far as possible, throughout stimulate sufficient private sector activity. Lending to Whitehall. small and medium-sized businesses has fallen for five Finally, let me say something about one in, one out. consecutive quarters, while, even at the height of the There has been some early modest success in that regard, recession, in Germany, with its more balanced banking but I should be grateful if Ministers would consider a system, bank lending by the Sparkassen, or local savings proposal which the last Government toyed with, but did banks, continued to rise. not proceed with, in 2008. I refer to regulatory budgets, The Business Secretary trumpeted Project Merlin which would set a figure for the value and cost of and then credit easing as the answers, but the truth is regulations in any particular Department. That proposal that British businesses face a shortfall in available finance was not included in the 2008 Labour consultation, but of £190 billion over the next decade, while £700 billion many of us have been considering ways in which, if a of private sector capital is failing to be put to sufficiently budget went bust because too many regulations were productive use in our economy. being imposed on business, the Department would be The Bank of England has printed £325 billion through subject to the sanction of reductions in its public expenditure quantitative easing for use in its asset purchase scheme, settlement with the Treasury. That would certainly hold and that has provided some monetary stimulus for growth, Ministers’ and senior civil servants’ feet to the fire. but this money has mainly been used to purchase gilts Perhaps the Minister will tell us whether the Government and to prop up bank balance sheets, instead of finding will consider it. its way directly to SMEs or into the real economy on our high streets. Only today, Adam Posen, the external 7.18 pm member of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Mr William Bain (Glasgow North East) (Lab): Several Committee, has reiterated his call for that money to be weeks ago, the Business Secretary revealed publicly to used to purchase private sector assets, by emphasising The Guardian something that the country already knew the argument that a lack of economic confidence can to be true: that the Government have no convincing feed on itself. That shows the scale of the missed opportunity narrative when it comes to running the country. That is in this Bill. particularly true in relation to the disastrous state of In the 1930s, the lost output was restored within our economy. The Office for Budget Responsibility has 48 months of the beginning of the economic crisis. downgraded the forecast for the growth in business Now, under the business policies followed by this 93 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 94 Bill Bill Government—which are not reversed by this Bill—as to move. I want them to go a little further in redressing the National Institute of Economic and Social Research the balance in law between employers and employees. In suggests, it may take 72 months, and counting, to no way do I seek to establish some sort of “hire and restore the lost output, as the economy has spluttered to fire” culture; I very much agree that that would be to the a halt in the last two years. detriment of not only employees, but business. However, Real wages have fallen every month that this Government I welcome the provisions enabling disputes to be resolved have been in office, amidst the biggest squeeze in living at a much earlier stage, without the need to go to an standards since the 1920s. This Bill should have marked employment tribunal. That will be a help to both employer a turning point away from what even the credit rating and employee, and it is anticipated that 25% fewer agencies have described as an entirely self-defeating claims will end up going to a tribunal as a result, which policy of austerity. will save public money and company time and resources. Some of the Bill’s measures are welcome in so far as We have also heard this afternoon that any employer they go, but even with the establishment of the green offer of a settlement earlier in the process will no longer investment bank, the whole is less than the sum of its prejudice the company’s position in any subsequent parts and fails to meet the scale of the challenge in respect tribunal hearing. That is a welcome development, and of the potential for green growth, as stated by the UN I look forward to hearing further details. Environment Programme in its report of last autumn. Contrary to the fears that some Opposition Members WWF UK has estimated that infrastructure investment have expressed, nothing in this Bill changes an individual’s on a scale of between £220 billion and £330 billion is statutory employment rights, but that causes a degree of needed to create the number of green jobs required over concern to many of us who have been in business and the next decade, yet the bank will have start-up public therefore know how far the balance has tilted towards capital of only £3 billion, which is just 0.2% of GDP, the rights of the employee, especially in unfair dismissal with no likelihood of borrowing powers by 2016. That claims. I took some soundings from people with whom is a result of the Chancellor’s failure on growth, leading I have in the past been in business, and I want to quote to borrowing being £150 billion higher than he forecast the comments of somebody who does not want to be in June 2010. named. She told me: The Bill presented a real opportunity for the Government “Tribunal culture in the UK means the employer is on the back to consider the Opposition’s proposal to establish a foot. We have agreed to pay off employees (who have appointed proper national investment bank and make use of the no win-no fee lawyers) that have threatened to take us to court, UK’s current low long-term interest rates. In 2008, even when they have no real case, as the amount of time/energy it takes us to fight our case at a tribunal is too high, even when we as business investment in the US, Germany and France employers think we are in the right. This area I feel is the most was 11.7%, 12.3% and 12.7% respectively, whereas in onerous for me as an employer currently. And for someone with a this country it was only 10.2%. As Gerald Holtham social conscience, I don’t like paying someone off when they are demonstrated in a report for the Institute for Public in the wrong, just because it is the most cost effective thing to do Policy Research last year, a properly capitalised national for the business.” investment bank could be achieved, increasing investment Research by the chamber of commerce among firms in manufacturing and the green economy without breaching employing between 10 and 49 people has confirmed even this Government’s fiscal rules. what that individual told me. It revealed that 21% of This Bill should also have marked a shift towards respondents had been threatened with an employment restoring the link between economic growth, living standards tribunal in the previous three years, and of those 37% and productivity. As the Resolution Foundation showed had opted to settle out of court. Many employers of last year, in the 30 years from 1977 the share of every fewer than 20 people simply cannot afford the specialist £1 of GDP going into the wage packets of people in the HR resource required to enable them to defend their lower half of the income scale fell from 33p to just 12p. position in a tribunal. Only 20% of respondents to the There should have been policies to establish a proper survey defended their claim, and although it was heartening living wage as well, given that the Resolution Foundation to read that, of those, three quarters won their case, has also shown that the costs, even to big business, of some of the comments quoted verbatim in the research such a move would be in the order of less than 1%. are salutary. One HR director said that he It is especially alarming that the Government are “cannot emphasise enough how burdensome and draining it is to considering watering down their extremely modest proposals dismiss people who are performing very poorly or are abusing the to tackle the inequality gap between top pay and the rules.” pay received by rest of the country. Given both that and Another said: their attitude on rights of work, the Government show “We won our claim, however the stress was off the scale, it cost in this Bill that they have no plan to stimulate demand. our company over £20,000 for something that was never our This is the no-change Bill from the no-growth Government. fault.” 7.26 pm I welcome the review of a related matter—health and safety regulations—being undertaken by the Department Margot James (Stourbridge) (Con): I welcome the for Work and Pensions. That has a considerable bearing many excellent measures in the Bill that lay the foundations on employment law. Although it is beyond the scope for a low-carbon economy, with the green investment of the Bill, I hope that Ministers will confer with their bank being established and the proposed changes to the DWP counterparts, as 54% of respondents to that competition regime, which should simplify matters for chamber of commerce survey cited concerns about the business and reduce costs. operation of health and safety rules. A company in my I want to focus on the employment law reform provisions, constituency employing between 100 and 150 people, however, as that is the one part of the Bill on which even though it is in many ways a model employer, I hope the Government will be persuaded in Committee suffers two or three cases a year of vexatious claims by 95 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 96 Bill Bill [Margot James] 7.35 pm Mr Adrian Bailey (West Bromwich West) (Lab/Co-op): employees, and even ex-employees, who have created a I rise to support the reasoned amendment. I consider spurious claim based on an accident they had at work. that the appropriate course, because although there are The company is then in the position of having to prove some bad things in the Bill, it also contains a lot of to the court that it created proper conditions that good measures that should be supported. should have prevented the accident—the onus is on the company to prove that it took adequate measures. That What is bad is the fact that, as far as business is is but one example of the many areas beyond unfair concerned, the Bill is about as good as the Government dismissal where, I believe, the rights of the employee are are prepared to offer. At a time of double-dip recession, now too far out of kilter with the rights of the employer. when consumer spending is squeezed and could well contract further, manufacturing is struggling and private sector investment is almost negative, there was an Julian Smith: I think my hon. Friend gets an extra opportunity for the Government to produce a Bill that minute for taking my intervention. Does she agree that would play a major role in reversing those trends. Instead, there is an impact on growth, because when a small we got a rag-bag of measures, some quite good in company is having to deal with all these issues in themselves, cobbled together in an omnibus Bill that employment tribunals, it is not able to focus on creating has no focus and no clear relevance to meeting the more jobs and growth? That is what Opposition Members challenges facing our economy today. Businesses are sometimes appear to fail to understand. crying out for something far more dramatic, such as investment in construction or a business bank—major Margot James: My hon. Friend makes a good point. action by the Government that will help to stimulate The problem is not just the cost of defending claims, private sector investment, increase employment and but the management time involved. That detracts from improve consumer spending—but this Bill is all they the energy that companies need to fight in the market have got. Even the Secretary of State admitted that the for business. There is no doubt about that. measures in the Bill would not reverse the current economic problems. Mr Binley: Will my hon. Friend give way? She will get Many of the measures are Labour’s ideas—the green another minute if she does. investment bank, the provisions on shareholders and the primary authority scheme. I admit that the present Margot James: I will give way once more, but I will Government have developed those ideas, but given the not take all the extra time. controversy that some of them have generated within the Government ranks, they cannot avoid the overriding Mr Binley: I am most grateful. Does my hon. Friend perception that this Government appreciate the logic of recognise that, for some small businesses, two days and what Labour initiated, but do not have the political the prior work necessary to attend a tribunal cost conviction or passion to implement those ideas in a way £10,000? Many shy away from taking that course, even that will deliver on their objectives. though they think they are right, because they simply I welcome the green investment bank. Originally cannot afford that. Labour’s idea, its implementation has taken two years, amidst oft-reported squabbling between the Department Margot James rose— and the Treasury. In three years, it will—perhaps—be able to do what banks are expected to do: borrow and recycle the money; however, that is subject to the public Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo): Order. It accounts being in an appropriate state. That is hardly is quite true that the hon. Lady gets extra time for the sort of approach that will generate the certainty taking interventions, but of course that takes time from needed to encourage investors to put money into the Members who are waiting to speak. Mr Binley and bank, so funds will be available for redistributing. Mr Smith, you might remember that. Mike Crockart (Edinburgh West) (LD): Will the hon. Margot James: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Gentleman give way? I am conscious of that and I will not take all the additional time allotted. Mr Bailey: All right. I will try not to use my full time. My hon. Friend the Member for Northampton South (Mr Binley) made a good point. The cost in time and Mike Crockart: The hon. Gentleman is making an money of fighting claims is a huge disincentive, especially interesting point, but surely he must accept that the fact to very small companies. That is why I believe we that £750 million is available this year to invest in green should give micro-businesses special consideration and projects is a massive step forward. partial exemptions from some of the measures in the Bill. I hope that the Government will take on board the Mr Bailey: I accept that that is better than nothing, views expressed by my colleagues and I today, and but it falls far short of the Ernst and Young assessment the concerns voiced by the many reasonable employers of what is needed for the green investment bank to who try to do the right thing by their work force. The generate a green economy. Other surveys also underpin volume, complexity and, I believe, bias of current law, the original Ernst and Young one. No provision is being which allows vexatious and sometimes spurious claims made for reviewing and reporting on the bank to obtain to be brought in the first place, is what needs to be some sort of public estimate of just how far it is changed fundamentally, alongside the very good measures fulfilling the role it should have. No provision is being the Government propose in the Bill. made for procurement for small and medium-sized 97 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 98 Bill Bill enterprises, although I welcomed the Minister’s comments Here was an opportunity to press for changes in the about the amount of funds that are going in their jobs tax and to look for more tax deductions for people direction. In addition, there is a real risk that the who wish to put their capital at risk in our small businesses. opportunity to develop a green economy will be lost Here was an opportunity indeed to send a clear message because the so-called “green investment bank” will just to our local bureaucrats, with their pettifogging rules become a niche fund, instead of being what it should and regulations which are causing more misery to be—a driver to develop a green economy, with all the shopkeepers in our town centres, that they should stand benefits and all the employment that will come with it, back a bit and understand how hard it is in many town as we see in Germany. centres for small businesses to make progress. This Bill A lot has been said about regulation, and I echo the was the opportunity to address all those things, and I welcome my hon. Friend the Member for Streatham look forward to hearing in Committee how we have (Mr Umunna) gave for measures to provide for a done on all of them. conciliation service that will obviate the need for some I wish to address one part of the Bill, and it relates to employment tribunals; anything that can make easier what has been termed “hire and fire” and what has been the complex and sometimes stressful process—for both termed “compensated no-fault dismissals”. I do this employee and employer—is to be welcomed. My concerns because I do not feel that Adrian Beecroft’s proposals centre on the resource and funding issue for ACAS that have been given due consideration. There are strong has been raised by a number of hon. Members. arguments on both sides as to whether or not we should Undoubtedly, the Bill places far greater stress on ACAS, implement them, but we have not investigated the issues giving it a far greater role and far greater responsibilities, sufficiently carefully and it is wrong to dismiss the but there is no evidence that the resources will be put in proposals with ridicule, with abuse or with fearmongering. place to enable it to match those responsibilities. I Let me explain why that is. would be interested to know whether the Government If we look at the issues in developed economies, have done any research on whether this approach will particularly those of the United Kingdom and the generate more complaints. Undoubtedly, some employees United States, relating to how we recover from recessions, do not take their employer to a tribunal because they we discover that our economies are finding it tougher to would find doing so too stressful. If the option of a create jobs as we recover. In the period before the 1990s, conciliation service that avoids the need to go to tribunal it took on average about six months from the economy is available, that may actually generate more claims. I do recovering for it to reach full employment. Since the not know whether that will be the case, but the Government 1990s, the figure has gone from an average of six months’ should examine the matter, particularly in the context further delay to one of 15 months or more. The United of their funding for ACAS. States is a much better economy at recovering from The proposal for the competition and markets authority recessions than the United Kingdom is. In the US, it is, in general, good, but I have concern about one takes on average four to five years for the economy to particular aspect: the offloading of some of the consumer bounce back, but in the UK it takes eight to 10 years. education role of the Office of Fair Trading to Citizens There are therefore two strong reasons for examining Advice. I have nothing but praise for Citizens Advice, why the UK is not as good at recovering employment as but I am concerned, given the funding cuts it is enduring other countries are and why, even in those countries, it at the moment, about whether it will be in a position to is becoming more difficult to associate growth with carry out that sort of additional responsibility in a way employment. that will benefit the community. The Government need to examine that resourcing issue. Mr David Anderson (Blaydon) (Lab): Interestingly, I promised that I would not use up all my time, so I the OECD has the UK as the second worst country out shall conclude by saying that although the Bill is not all of 36 in the developed world for employment rights—only bad, it totally fails to address the major challenge that is the US is worse—yet the record shows that countries confronting the Government and which the business such as Germany, with much better employment rights, community wants it to confront. The Bill is symptomatic have come out of recession faster. Is that not the lesson of a Government who have few ideas, and I suspect that we should be learning tonight? those they do have are being strangled by Treasury orthodoxy. The Government need growth and the country Richard Fuller: I appreciate the intervention, but I am needs growth, but these measures will not deliver it. not as clear as the hon. Gentleman is about those particular statistics and I am not sure that they paint 7.44 pm the correct picture for the United Kingdom. The shadow Secretary of State cited the World Bank earlier when he Richard Fuller (Bedford) (Con): As our national economy looked at the overall statistics on doing business and searches for growth, we look for direction. As our small said that they had—surprisingly—got better under the businesses, our shopkeepers and our entrepreneurs struggle previous Government. If we look at the same World with unyielding burdens, they look for relief. As many Bank statistics and the issues to do with the labour who are unemployed, both short-term and long-term, markets, we find that this country declined from 17th to continue their search for employment, they ask for 34th position in the period from 2007 to 2010. In terms hope. And so we turn for inspiration to the Enterprise of the need for change in the labour markets, it has been and Regulatory Reform Bill. Here was our chance to shown that we need to get a little better. send a clear message that we were going to roll back the European regulation that is calcifying the spirit of enterprise. Sandra Osborne: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? Here was the opportunity to come forward with new ideas and initiatives for new funding sources to assist in Richard Fuller: Very briefly; I, like others, will not then dealing with the gap in funding for our small businesses. use up more time. 99 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 100 Bill Bill Sandra Osborne: Statistics are extremely interesting, The clause removes powers from and reduces the but what is the connection between what the hon. duties of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, Gentleman is talking about and no-fault dismissal? which was set up by the Equality Act 2006 as an Where is the evidence for that? independent statutory body and regulator. It is responsible for enforcing equality legislation on age, disability, gender, Richard Fuller: Many people look at the “dismissal” race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or transgender part of no-fault dismissal, whereas for Government status, and for encouraging compliance with the Human Members and some Opposition Members the other Rights Act 1998. It has a duty to challenge prejudice part is how willing employers are to take someone on and disadvantage and promote the importance of human when they understand what the risks may be of having rights. It works to reduce inequality, eliminate discrimination to hold on to them. That is the connection. My focus is and strengthen good relations between people. not on the fear of what might happen in firing situations, According to the Government, that apparently means which has rightly been expressed by Opposition Members, that the EHRC is biased, which goes to show how but on dead-weight costs and the number of people shallow their grasp is of the serious, endemic problem who have not been hired because employers are not of discrimination in our society, and how little commitment prepared to take the risk with their businesses. All hon. they have to tackling it. Perhaps that is why the Business Members and all businesses are concerned about achieving Secretary did not bother to mention it apart from in growth. To achieve growth, businesses need certainty, response to an intervention. but equally they need to have certainty that any additional Undertaking those functions effectively requires proper staff they hire will work out well. For a small businesses funding and the retention of the EHRC’s full legal of three, four, five or 10 employees, hiring one person is remit. We know that the Government have had it in for an incredibly big decision. As my hon. Friend the the EHRC for some time and have sought to undermine Member for Stourbridge (Margot James) said about a it, but that is not to say that there have not been business in her constituency, such costs have a significant problems. It is a new and innovative organisation, and impact on cash flow and perhaps viability. to some extent such problems are to be expected. In my For those reasons, I hope that in Committee we can Westminster Hall debate only a few weeks ago, I highlighted look again at the issues that Adrian Beecroft has raised, the EHRC’s 62% budget cut and 72% cut to staffing by although I think the Secretary of State has dismissed 2015 from the original 2007 level. The cuts to its resources them. I hope we do so by saying, “We aren’t yet sure and remit almost annihilate the commission, and render what the right answer is, but we are not going to be put it little more than a talking shop. off by scaremongering tactics.” We need to understand That is a great pity, because the establishment of the whether such proposals will have an impact. EHRC was groundbreaking. Legislation to outlaw Those are the main issues. If we are to achieve growth discrimination has existed for more than 40 years, but, in our country’s economy, it must be founded on a typically, new Acts have focused on one area of policy—for better approach to getting people back to work quickly. example, on pay, equal treatment of women or race We do not have the answers from our recovery from discrimination. The body of law was introduced in a recessions of the recent past. I believe that making it piecemeal way over a long period and developed easier for people to understand the risk involved when inconsistencies. The 2006 Act harmonised existing law they hire people will be a major step forward in that regard. in a more coherent whole and introduced new requirements. It was subject to extensive pre-legislative scrutiny and 7.51 pm had support from civil society and had all-party support. Having sat through the proceedings, I can say that the Sandra Osborne (Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock) (Lab): Liberal Democrats continually lectured the then It is a pleasure to follow the hon. Member for Bedford Government on how the measures did not go far enough, (Richard Fuller), although I do not agree with him. I do and said how keen they were on the public sector equality not deny that there could be reform of, for example, the duty, which is now up for review. tribunal system, but no-fault dismissal is an attack on Consensus was achieved on the introduction of the workers’rights. That is not, as some say, a misunderstanding Act, but the Government’s so-called consultation on on the part of the public. My constituents know when building a fairer Britain was a bit of a farce. They have their rights are under attack, especially when they are ignored the majority of responses which, by their own already worried about employment stability. The Secretary admission, were against the changes they propose. of State for Business, Innovation and Skills has ruled out The socio-economic duty is not currently in force, but proposals on no-fault dismissal in the Bill, and I hope its repeal is a political totem for the Conservative party, that the Minister reaffirms that in his winding-up speech. which has always opposed it. Everyone knows that I welcome the green investment bank, particularly as socio-economic duties are not the Conservative party’s it will be based in Edinburgh. I am sure that my fellow thing, but the Minister for Equalities, a Liberal Democrat, Scots will have the good sense to realise that that and also took part in proceedings on the 2006 Act. At that many other aspects are good reasons why we should time, she thought the socio-economic duty was so important remain part of the United Kingdom as opposed to that there should be separate legislation to deal with being separate. socio-economic issues. Will the Minister tell us when Having said that, I shall try to keep my speech short the Government will introduce such legislation? and concentrate on clause 51, which is so important to The Government want to repeal the general duty in the Secretary of State that he mentioned it only in the Act because they say it has no specific legal purpose response to an intervention from my hon. Friend the and does not help to clarify the precise functions that Member for Streatham (Mr Umunna). I do not agree the EHRC is required to carry out. Not surprisingly, with the Secretary of State; it is an important measure. many do not agree with that. It is a purpose clause that It is not, as he said, just a tidying-up exercise. sets out the broad goals and underlying principles of 101 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 102 Bill Bill the legislation. The Government have admitted that the Much has been said in the debate about regulatory majority of respondents to their consultation were opposed reform, but small businesses have heard much of it to repeal by nearly six to one, and were concerned about before. Large multinationals have the resources to use losing the guiding principles and values set out in the expensive consultants and employ compliance departments, general duties as debated in the House during the unlike almost every small business that I deal with. In passage of the Act. commensurate terms, the burden placed upon small The Joint Committee on Human Rights at that time businesses is sometimes 30 times greater than that on a agreed with those principles, as did other hon. Members, plc, yet we expect them to deal with the problems of including the then Member for Daventry, now Lord employment tribunals, health and safety at work and Boswell, who said: human resources. They simply cannot do that and grow “I have no difficulty at all with the general duty in clause 3 at the same time, and we need a Government who —that is what most of us are in politics for.”—[Official Report, recognise that. I recognise some of the good that the 21 November 2005; Vol. 439, c. 1331.] previous Government did in this area, but they did not I know that to be true of him from the many contributions really understand that point. I fear that we will not he made in this House, but it is not true of the coalition. understand it either, and I beg the Minister to consider The purpose clause on the socio-economic duty is it very seriously indeed. about values. Crucially, it illustrates how our society views, and attaches importance to, matters of equality. Mr Anderson: Given what the hon. Gentleman has It is a pity that the French experience will now be said, would it not be more sensible for the Government, superior to ours. The French have adopted the duty in instead of attacking employee rights, to give small legislation but, unlike us, are not cutting back when it business people access to such things as good-quality comes to carrying it out. legal aid, so that they can take people on and exploit the I sat through proceedings on the 2006 Act. Hon. system in the right way? Members will have realised that I have strong feelings about these issues, so I shall cut my speech short. Clause 51 is not a tidying-up measure; it takes us Mr Binley: I consider the hon. Gentleman to be a backwards. It should not be supported and it should friend, and our views meet on a number of issues, not be in the Bill in the first place. particularly clean coal. However, they do not meet on this matter, because his suggestion would only add even more bureaucracy to small businesses. We need to lift 7.59 pm that bureaucracy, and I ask that that point be appreciated. Mr Brian Binley (Northampton South) (Con): I congratulate the hon. Member for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock (Sandra Osborne) on a forceful defence of David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP): I agree with equalities. It was well received, and she should feel that 99.9% of what the hon. Gentleman is saying, especially she has done her job very well indeed. about small and medium-sized businesses, which are the backbone of this United Kingdom. Does he agree that This is an important Bill, and I will concentrate not it is the Government’s role and responsibility to create on equalities but on small and medium-sized businesses. the environment that will help those businesses to succeed? They are where our growth will come from, which is why we have to prioritise them. Over the past decade we have failed to recognise the contribution that new and Mr Binley: I agree entirely, and I am most grateful to growing businesses make to our prosperity. It is small the hon. Gentleman for making that point much more businesses that deliver employment growth. Private sector succinctly than I did. employment increased by 45,000 in the final quarter of The Government recognise that employment regulation last year to 23 million, the bulk of whom are in small needs to be addressed. It is in everybody’s interests that businesses. They represent more than half the people workplace disputes are resolved as speedily as is practical. employed in this country. As the public sector contracts I share the concern of my colleagues on the Business, to sustainable levels the private sector will grow, and Innovation and Skills Committee that we must be assured small and medium-sized businesses will create the jobs that introducing a mandatory process will expedite that we need. They need help and impetus, and that is matters. It is conceivable that ACAS will be involved in what I want to concentrate on today. trying to conciliate more than 200 cases a year. Can the The Secretary of State mentioned the situation in Minister provide an assurance that that will speed up Germany, where very small businesses are well looked the process? after because they are seen as the future oak forests of the German economy. They do not have to be on the In response to the earlier consultation, the Government trade register, they do not pay turnover tax, they do not recognised the need to increase ACAS’s resources, arguing specify turnover tax on their bills and they can calculate that that would be paid for by savings from cases that their profit for income tax purposes on the basis of would not proceed to a tribunal. However, ACAS’s revenue surplus. Additionally, they are not paid back report makes it clear that three quarters of claims are the turnover tax that they pay to other businesses, and already resolved before that phase. What further reduction they are subject not to the rigid regulations of the do the Government envisage under the mandatory system, commercial code but to the more protective regulations and will the additional resources be provided up front? of the civil code. In other words, the Germans recognise Otherwise, if we are not careful there will be as big a the need to nurture their new and growing businesses. I road block as there is in the European Court of Human am disappointed that we have not taken that route in Rights in Strasbourg. I ask the Minister to consider that the Bill, and I implore the Minister to consider that very very carefully. ACAS acknowledges that seriously. “problems at work can be a barrier to growing a business”, 103 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 104 Bill Bill [Mr Binley] of the way in which the Government are handling it. They are obsessed with debt rather than the real problem and I support that view, but it has to be properly funded with the British economy, which is demand. In an if it is to do the job that the Government will ask it to attempt to cut debt, they are cutting spending, firing do. I am not sure that we have been assured that that public servants and reducing public spending, but those will be the case. actions in turn are reducing demand with the result that I welcome the provisions in the Bill to improve we are acquiring more debt and that the burden of debt competition policy. Small businesses are capable of weighs more heavily on the shrinking economy. The performing robustly in a competitive market, and we economy was 4% below its GDP in 2008 and if we should ask whether we are doing enough to enable them count the growth it should have had in the interim to compete. When market forces fail to deliver a competitive years, we can see that it is well below what it should be. environment, it is proper that authorities should intervene, Ours is the only economy in the world that has fallen but we need to make our competitions investigations that low, yet the Government are compounding the speedier. Cartel investigations and dominance inquiries problem by trying to cut debt while widening the deficit, in this country take an average of more than 30 months, requiring more debt to pay the wages of misery and which is simply not good enough. We can imagine the unemployment. That is an economic folly and what the cost involved for small businesses at the larger end of Bill does to encourage growth is as nothing when set the scale that are involved in such process—it is enormous. against that. All that we are doing is stopping good people managing It is a deceit to pretend that business is hung down their businesses for growth. We are making them defend with regulations, tribunals and employment regulations, their position simply because the law says they must. that that is the cause of the problems and that if we get The law needs to be more helpful and understanding rid of all the regulations and obligations to the workers, to them in that respect, and I ask that that matter be we will suddenly have a surge of energy and enterprise. looked into more deeply. That is absolutely not true. Workers in this country have Finally, I welcome the extension of the primary authority less protection and fewer rights than those in nearly scheme in clause 52. It is essential to widen small every other advanced country apart from two. Less businesses’ opportunity to participate. The existing protection, fewer rights. We have heard some tear-jerking arrangements are too prohibitive, so the reform is positive. examples today of small businesses being unable to fire I pay tribute to the Labour party for introducing the people. I accept that there are some problems, but it is scheme when they were in Government—I always want easier for such businesses to fire people than it is in to recognise value where it exists, because the House is most comparable countries. When multinationals want better when it works together than when it works apart. to reduce their international work force, they notoriously I repeat that this is an important Bill, and it has been always fire people in this country first because it is brought forward at a sensitive time in the economic easier and less expensive in redundancy payments. No cycle. The voice of business could not be clearer. We need surge in employment will come through concessions to to create a simple, predictable, reliable and agile regulatory small businesses in the form of regulation. Speakers environment. We need to encourage entrepreneurs to from the Government Benches have been rather like the start businesses and want to grow them here, and we captain of the Titanic, locked in his cabin discussing need a competition regime that champions competitiveness how to reduce the conditions and pay of the stewards and opportunity. Those are tough asks, and it remains while the ships sinks with an iceberg making a great to be seen whether the Bill will perform those tasks. It hole in it. That is the level of the debate on those will if Ministers allow it to be amended effectively in Benches. Committee and on Report. I want an assurance from the Let me look first at what the Bill does not do, because Minister that the Government will be that understanding. its inadequacies are more glaring than its adequacies. It offers a green investment bank—or, to give it its proper 8.9 pm name, a pale green investment bank—that is not a bank and that is certainly too little, too late. It is much like the Austin Mitchell (Great Grimsby) (Lab): It is always a time when Michael Heseltine used to go around distressed pleasure to follow the hon. Member for Northampton towns in the north in the 1980s offering them a garden South (Mr Binley), provided that one does not follow festival; the green investment bank is the Liberal party’s him too far down his idiosyncratic paths. wreath from Government. What we really need is not a It is difficult to speak about the Bill, as it is very much green investment bank with very little money at its a rag-bag of a Bill. I would say it was a curate’s egg of a disposal but a national investment bank that will raise Bill, if we could assume that curates ate pterodactyl money on the markets—it could use some of the proceeds eggs that were good in parts but monstrous in others. It from quantitative easing, too—and invest it in business, is a very mixed bag and it looks to me as though the in housing projects and in infrastructure projects to get Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the economy moving. who is, I think, the only wise man in Government—certainly in the Cabinet—has had a difficult fight beating off some of the more lunatic proposals that were put to him Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op): Will by Beecroft and others in the Conservative party. He my hon. Friend give way? has finished up with not a Bill but a bric-a-brac stall, with several bits that are very broken and others that Austin Mitchell: No, I want to be very brief. are very messy. We are being offered a marginal increase in shareholder We were told that the Bill is about growth—that it is rights when what we need is an increase in worker rights about “encouraging long-term growth”—but that is and worker representation, particularly representation. completely crazy. Our economy is not growing because Workers are the ones with the interests of the company 105 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 106 Bill Bill at heart and they want to see the company maintained, Business, enterprise and enthusiasm are present across viable and healthy. Workers, as well as shareholders, our country. Individuals and small and medium-sized should be represented on the remuneration committee, businesses are willing and capable to take on the world on the audit committee, which should have a central and to succeed. I am sure that there is a real appetite to role, and on works councils, such as those that they develop, promote and sell goods and services, not just have in Germany. I would move rapidly towards the to home demand but to Europe and beyond. All enterprises Mitbestimmung system of co-determination and need help, however. They need the right economic partnership that they have in Germany. The Bill does conditions, the appropriate regulations, a trained and not do that, which is a failure. It offers a simplified skilled work force, low taxation, a sympathetic and structure for competition issues when what we need is a encouraging Government and, of course, hard work— British version of the Securities and Exchange Commission together, I believe, with luck. We approach the Bill with in the United States and a business commission to those requirements and I am pleased that we have a enforce effective corporate governance of British companies Government who understand and support enterprise. and to impose tougher rules on mergers and foreign There are 4.5 million small businesses in the UK, so takeovers. any improvement we can make to the system of regulation As Alex Brummer shows in his latest book, we have and inspection will have a wide-ranging impact and very few national champions left in this country and a could be of real benefit to the economy as well as to higher proportion of our big firms have been taken over businesses. The most competitive and successful nations by foreign firms than in any other country. That means have clear strategies to support business. They have that they are dancing to a tune dictated from Zurich, lighter regulation, less interference, competitive tax regimes, Hamburg, Delaware or wherever else rather than to a banks that support them and employment laws that British tune when making their investment decisions. make it easy to hire people. During the last decade, we We need to check and control foreign takeovers on that have lagged behind in some areas as the previous stage. Government seemed uninterested in business and more Let me make a brief mention of what the Bill does; it interested in the public sector. In the past two years, this has to be brief, because it does not do all that much. Government have made real progress. Corporation First, the simplification of the tribunal process is okay tax has been cut and there is a greater number of and acceptable, provided that ACAS gets the extra apprenticeship places and more financial assistance to staffing and money that it will need to take over the support work-based learning. The red tape challenge conciliation process before industrial tribunal. Secondly, campaign was launched so that we listen to businesses’ we need a one-track approach, rather than having to go concerns about regulation. A national loan guarantee first to ACAS and then to the tribunal. The approach scheme has been introduced so that businesses can get should be integrated down one track. access to the credit that they need either to survive or We need better protection and provision for to grow, and young entrepreneurs are being supported whistleblowers. In many cases, that is the only way we with start-up finance. will find out what is going on inside companies such as Of course, much more needs to be done to help A4e—we heard all the revelations about what that business, and the Bill will help dramatically with that. company had been doing because they do not have an Regulations are a real problem, and over-regulation is a adequate audit structure or control structure. That means problem for small businesses particularly. According to that fraud can be perpetrated at the lower levels, whereas research by the Federation of Small Businesses, 27% of the top management is not concerned and does not businesses say that increased regulation created difficulties want to know what is going on. We need proper control in expanding their business, and 33% said that regulation structures and some system of strengthening and protecting was the biggest potential obstacle to growth. whistleblowers to encourage them to come forward and I regularly visit businesses in my constituency that reveal what kind of business practices are going on. If work in different sectors, including manufacture, retail, the Bill does not provide that, it will fail. Those are child care and education. Since the last election, I have important provisions that must be implemented. been pleased to meet representatives of companies such as the Kenton Group, an innovative network research Mr Sheerman: Will my hon. Friend give way? and manufacturing firm in Crayford; the Kip McGrath education centre in Bexleyheath, which provides extra Austin Mitchell: No, I am finishing. The Bill is a rag- learning support for children; and Pulp Friction in bag. I agree— Erith, a growing firm of paper recyclers with depots across the country. Those firms are working hard to Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): Order. develop products and services that people want and need, and to generate wealth and prosperity. However, I 8.17 pm remain concerned about the number of complaints that Mr David Evennett (Bexleyheath and Crayford) (Con): I regularly receive about the regulation and unnecessary I welcome the Bill and commend my right hon. Friend bureaucracy that firms have to deal with and that take the Secretary of State for his opening speech. I was them away from more crucial tasks. rather disappointed by the shadow Secretary of State’s lack of passion and belief in business. He seemed Mr Sheerman: The hon. Gentleman and I agree on wedded to regulation and control and gave us rather a many things when it comes to promoting enterprise. lawyer’s lecture. However, I enjoyed the passion in the Does he agree that if he were in my region, he would speech made by my hon. Friend the Member for have a very different perspective on how the economy Northampton South (Mr Binley) and I congratulate was doing? Yorkshire and the northern and midland him on that. regions have been in recession for three years. 107 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 108 Bill Bill Mr Evennett: I appreciate the hon. Gentleman’s comments. The CMA will have responsibility for introducing We want to get the economy moving across the whole time limits on the markets and mergers regimes, speeding country, and make sure that there are jobs and opportunities. up anti-trust enforcement and ensuring good working Training, enthusiasm and a determination to help small relationships with other regulators. Overall, the new businesses is fundamental across the country, but I accept regime will improve transparency, streamline processes that different parts of the country have different problems. and increase efficiency.The measures will benefit businesses, Another excellent firm in my constituency is Texcel consumers and the economy in the long term, so that Technology, an electronics firm involved in international markets are truly competitive. projects. Its managing director, Peter Shawyer, recently The regulatory reform aspects of the Bill are probably told me: the most important parts of it, as they repeal regulations “The whole gambit of employment law causes us untold and legislation that businesses have said should be stress...Any dealings that affect employees are slow or impossible abolished. The Government are to be commended for to implement without the threat of employment tribunals.” listening to business, taking on board its views, and He also said that things are more difficult for smaller taking action to help create the conditions that will organisations that do not have a large human resources stimulate growth and bring about the economy that we department with expertise from which they can benefit. want across the whole country. Steps have already been taken on employment law The primary authority scheme has helped to reduce reform. These include launching an employer’s charter, administration for companies by allowing them to form so that employers know what they can already do to relationships with a single local authority. The scheme address staff issues in the workplace. However, there is makes local regulation more effective, and means that much more to be done, and I welcome the proposals, robust and consistent advice is given to other councils which will achieve many things. when they are carrying out inspections or compliance checks. The scheme has been running since 2009; it is Small and medium-sized businesses will be able to one of the two positive things that the Labour Government benefit from reduced costs. Costs are a vital concern did to help business. So far, it has delivered real benefits. to SMEs. If the Government can provide a better way to agree settlements with employees, businesses can save To date, it has been larger businesses that have benefited money on administrative costs. More importantly, that from the arrangement. At present, a company has to will avoid costly employment tribunal processes, which operate in more than one local authority area to be can be a burden to businesses. eligible. The Bill will extend the scheme in an innovative and beneficial way, so that it supports more firms. Under the proposals, a business will now be eligible if it Dr Whiteford: One of the concerns that the Federation shares an approach to compliance with at least one of Small Businesses raised about the conciliation proposals other business and, collectively, those businesses are is that they may necessitate employers having to pay for regulated by at least two different local authorities. That more legal advice, not less. means that trade associations or franchises of the same company could benefit from this simpler and more Mr Evennett: I know, but I think and very much hope effective regime. that the FSB is wrong on this. We need to look after I applaud the Bill and all that it is trying to achieve. both employers and employees, and get them working Of course we want to make a real difference for businesses together, and I believe that the proposal is the way across the country.We want to free small and medium-sized forward. Quicker resolution of employment disputes businesses from the burden of excess regulation. will be good for everybody, particularly employees. Employment rules will be reformed, so that the tribunal New arbitration requirements could prevent the need process is fair for all parties in any dispute; arbitration for tribunals. I welcome the clause that will provide for will be required first, and hopefully that will reduce that, and the fact that ACAS will be involved. However, costs. Markets will be reformed so that competition is we need to make sure that both businesses and employees fair and enforcement is effective. Regulations will also benefit and reach a satisfactory conclusion. be removed where businesses have told us that they There is another important aspect to this Bill: it will should cease, and where they are irrelevant. strengthen competitiveness. Effective competition is vital Good regulation must play a part in ensuring fairness if markets and industries are to flourish. Through for consumers, businesses and employees alike, but it is competition, research and innovation are enhanced, jobs the Government’s duty to take action when those rules are created and wealth is generated. It is also of great inhibit companies from taking on new staff. We desperately benefit to the consumer, who gets better choice, quality need new jobs, particularly for young people, and we and price—something we all value. The Government’s want to make sure that firms are not prohibited from plans will help to improve the regime that oversees taking on young and new employees; that would help competition law, ensure that the right cases are taken firms and individuals. I believe that the Bill will tackle forward for investigation, and make the system quicker those issues, create the right environment for our firms and more predictable for businesses. I support the proposal to grow, and stimulate our economy, which is in all our of merging the Competition Commission with the interests. competition functions of the Office of Fair Trading to create a new body, the competition and markets authority. 8.27 pm It will be the principal competition authority, and I hope that it will pursue cases of anti-competitive behaviour Julie Hilling (Bolton West) (Lab): I want to speak rigorously and fairly, so that consumers are protected about the proposed changes to employment legislation, and businesses are treated fairly. That is a very positive an area in which I have many years of experience and in step. which I get increasingly frustrated by comments made 109 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 110 Bill Bill by Government Members who either do not understand non-disabled workers, but if a fair procedure is followed the limitations of current employment legislation or and a reasonable adjustment is made if necessary, the deliberately want to take us back to the days when mill worker can be dismissed. and pit owners could treat their employees like slaves, Let us not forget that an employer has two years to work them till they dropped, and pay no regard to their decide if an employee is suitable—two years to decide health and well-being. whether an employee is an asset to the company or not. The UK does not have wonderful employment rights; Unless the employer is discriminating on the grounds of of the 36 richest countries, we come 34th. Only Canada gender, race, sexuality and so on, the employee cannot and America are worse. That should not say to anyone go to a tribunal at all. that employment rights are holding back our growth. I do not believe that we have thousands of bosses out Indeed, we know only too well that when international there who want to dismiss workers with no just cause. companies want to close factories in Europe, they close Why would they, when it costs so much to recruit and a factory in Britain before they close one in France or train a new worker? Even if we do have rogue employers, Germany because of the cheapness and simplicity of they can already dismiss workers on a whim. All they making workers here redundant. have to do is pay them what a tribunal would give them—redundancy pay, and not even at the rate of the The Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation company scheme if it is better than the statutory scheme, and Skills (Mr Mark Prisk): On that basis, how come it any holiday pay and any notice period. The only extra is a German GM factory, not a British one, that is sum that an employment tribunal will ever give is an closing? award for future losses. That is not normally more than six months’ pay and the average is considerably less. To Julie Hilling: The Minister gives one example, and we get that, the employee must prove that they were unfairly could collectively give many examples in which the dismissed and show that they have been applying for opposite has happened—many examples over the years jobs with no success. when it has been British factories that closed and French It sounds as though I am giving a lesson on how to be and German ones that stayed open. a bad boss. I am not; I am simply trying to point out There is already an inequitable relationship between how the employer already has massive power. I have lost employer and employee. Before Government Members count of the number of times I have had to use the trade nod their heads in agreement, let me say that power is union mantra, “Unfortunately the law is as it is, not as still firmly in the hands of the employer. Employers can we would like it to be,” when I have had to give the news do as they like as long as they follow simple and fair that an employee who had been dismissed had no case procedures. If an employer wants to dismiss a worker for a tribunal. Let me give the House some examples. A for misconduct, all they have to do is carry out a proper senior manager in the railways was charged with gross investigation, allow the employee representation and misconduct. We fought the charge and he was found give them the right of appeal. As long as the employer not guilty. A month later the employer paid him off— has a reasonable belief that the employee has done 30 years of service down the drain, limited chances of something wrong, they can dismiss them. another job and no chance of going to a tribunal. A travel centre worker with 17 years’ experience had Ian Lavery (Wansbeck) (Lab): Does my hon. Friend no problems until her manager changed and she ended agree that it was Beecroft who suggested that it was fine up off work with stress. She could not prove that her to sack someone if the employer just disliked the employee, manager had bullied her, and because the employer and that that was fair? followed proper processes, she was dismissed under capability procedure. A worker who had worked for the same company for 30 years was selected for redundancy Julie Hilling: I agree with my hon. Friend that the on the basis of last in, first out—after 30 years—even Beecroft proposals are appalling as they relate to the though this is not allowed to be the sole criterion. His rights and defence of individual workers. I shall say a redundancy payment made it impossible for him to go little more about that in a moment. to a tribunal. I could go on and on with examples. In order to dismiss somebody, the employer does A great deal has been made of the cost to employers. not have to prove that the employee has done anything They can get free legal advice from ACAS on all their wrong. The employer just has to have a reasonable belief policies and procedures. They do not need to employ a that it was them. As long the employer has followed a solicitor at a tribunal. As long as the employer has been simple procedure and carried out a proper investigation, fair and has not discriminated, they have nothing to the employee has no case at a tribunal. The tribunal will fear. ACAS already offers mediation and I welcome the not re-hear or re-judge the case and can find in favour extension of that, but I believe that the proposed fees of the employee only if the employer has not followed a for tribunals are wrong and will act as a barrier to fair process. If an employer wants to fire an employee justice for those least able to pay. The judge can already for capability, all the employer has to do is tell them make a deposit order of £1,000 to a claimant if the where they are failing and give them the opportunity to judge believes that there is no reasonable prospect of improve—again, a simple, fair process. success at the tribunal. The employee is not protected if they are disabled or Let us imagine ourselves in a situation that far too sick. The courts have already said that the employer many people find themselves in. They are sacked. They does not have to behave like a charity. If the employee is have no idea how they are going to meet their mortgage unable to fulfil their contract of employment, they can payments or put food on the table. Then they have to be dismissed. Yes, they may have a case for discrimination find money to take their case to court. The Government if the worker is singled out and treated differently from are just so wrong on this. They seem to have missed the 111 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 112 Bill Bill [Julie Hilling] unwanted by responsible business people, unnecessary and yet another example of a Government who are point that many claims to tribunals are for very small out of touch and have no idea how to govern in the sums—unpaid holiday pay, no notice pay, or wrongly 21st century. It seems to me that they just want to take calculated or no redundancy pay. Such simple cases are us back to the 19th century. With 2.7 million people already heard by a judge sitting alone and are often unemployed and more than a million young people worth less than the proposed fees. unemployed, the Government should simply get a grip. The Government are also wrong to dismantle our successful and admired tripartite industrial jury system 8.37 pm of employment tribunals and employment appeals tribunals. As the Law Society has stated: Eric Ollerenshaw (Lancaster and Fleetwood) (Con): “Lay members add to the concept of justice and they enhance It is a pleasure to follow the hon. Member for Bolton the fairness of the tribunal by bringing practical experience in West (Julie Hilling), who chairs the all-party group on employee and employer relations.” rail in the north, of which I am a member. I agree with As my hon. Friend the Member for Streatham her so much about rail investment but, with regard to (Mr Umunna) said, the Federation of Small Businesses the particular points she has made, I do not believe that is wholly against the proposals for compensated no-fault the Government are leading us back to the 19th century dismissal. It states that it has seen no evidence from and will say something about that in a minute. countries where compensated no-fault dismissal is in I will begin by talking about the aspects of the Bill on place to demonstrate that it encourages employers to hire. which people agree. I am pleased that most Members In fact, it believes that it might lead to more employment agree that the establishment of the green investment tribunal cases on the grounds of discrimination, thereby bank is a good thing and, like other Members, look producing exactly the opposite result to the main policy forward to a time when it can lever in private sector objective. investment. However, I would have preferred us to open The FSB also believes that there is a risk of creating a up the location of the bank and suggest that it could two-tier labour market and, specifically, that lower have gone to a greener area, perhaps in the north of protection creates a risk that workers will not be attracted England, and perhaps to some small, historic town such to small companies, making it harder for them to recruit. as Lancaster, but I accept that it was a Government Those taking employment in small firms could be the decision and will not be reopened. lower skilled and less productive workers willing to I welcome the Bill’s enabling powers giving shareholders accept lower protection and those finding it harder to greater control over the pay of their company directors. access credit, such as mortgages. The FSB also believes Given recent trends, it is right that those powers should that that would fundamentally change the dynamic be considered. I also welcome the measures to cut relationship between workers and their employers and bureaucracy and red tape. For as long as I can remember, could deflect attention from the need for good management Governments have talked about cutting red tape but and replace it with a hire and fire culture. I could not it rarely happens in practice. In stark contrast, the agree more. Government have already introduced a one-in, one-out The Government have stated that they must make rule for regulation. The notable exception is my right changes to the tribunals system because of the rising hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Communities and number of tribunal cases, but the level of single claims, Local Government, who has gone for twice as much by where individual workers make complaints about their introducing a rule in his Department whereby two treatment, has remained fairly steady—in fact, it fell by pieces of legislation must be scrapped for every new 15% between 2010 and 2011. Around 60,000 individual measure brought in, which I think should be the gold cases a year, of a work force of 26 million, does not standard we aim for. seem all that excessive. Anyone listening to Government The Bill moves forward the cause of smaller government Members would believe that tribunals were a real cash and a freer business environment, with sunset clauses cow for the employee, but the average award is £5,400 on new regulations, a reduction in various inspection and the average cost to the employer is £8,500. regimes and the repeal of many regulations that have I welcome the possibility that tribunals could impose been deemed unnecessary. I am sure that many more financial penalties on employers who break the law. I will be identified over the coming months and sincerely have never understood why employers can break hope that the battle against regulation continues throughout employment laws with impunity. The law is the law, it this Parliament. This Bill is just a start. seems to me, and those who break it deliberately, especially I have referred to my disagreements with the hon. if they do so regularly, should be punished. I am also Member for Bolton West and others, and what I really concerned by all the statements we have heard from want to deal with is employment tribunals, directing my Government Members about health and safety and ask remarks at the clauses that deal with employment and the Minister to assure us that no amendments will be workplace disputes. Other Government Members, such made that relate to health and safety legislation. as my hon. Friend the Member for Northampton South The economy is in recession not because workers (Mr Binley), are passionate about the issue, and we all have too many rights, but because the Government are agree that small businesses and, below them, micro- cutting expenditure too far and too fast, hitting business businesses are the lifeblood of this country and where confidence and choking off growth. Removing the rights real growth will come from. Cuts in the rate of corporation of workers will only increase job insecurity, harm work tax may help to attract big business to invest in the UK force morale and productivity, and lower consumer and are welcome, but, if we want more small businesses confidence. This is not about making it easier to hire to start up and to succeed we need to make it easier for workers, but about making it easier to sack them. It is them to employ people and to manage their staff effectively. 113 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 114 Bill Bill Opposition Members do not understand the issue, as We need to ensure that such scenarios do not damage was shown by the hon. Member for Bolton West when businesses. I do not know what Labour Members get in she talked about paying, because in a micro-business their post, but people from micro and small businesses the boss is the HR department, the sales person, the continually repeat to me their experiences of the problem production manager and the health and safety officer. of employment. As my hon. Friend the Member for That issue has been raised with me, and I have one, Bedford (Richard Fuller) made clear, we are not talking real example to back up what my hon. Friend the about attempting to allow employers to sack more but Member for Stourbridge (Margot James) said. An employer giving them the confidence to hire more and take people wrote to me, saying: out of unemployment. I gave the example that I did because of its particular nature. The sad fact is that that “Employing people is the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life, by some considerable distance.” business is now lost to my town because of the inflexibility of the tribunal system. He already had investments in various houses, and he I commend what Front Benchers are trying to do in went on to buy a small café, with the hope of establishing improving the situation, and I look to further improvements it and building it up. He employed two full timers and, when the Bill goes into Committee. We need to get for mainly busier days and to cope at weekends, a few employment up and give employers the confidence to more part-time staff, but he was forced to make some take people on. At the end of the day, a micro-business redundant when financial circumstances took a downward owner wants their employees to do well because it is turn, so he naturally kept on those employees whom he their business; he or she is working alongside them. It is found best at their job, who had a good attitude and not some great game. Unfortunately, because of current who were flexible. regulations, the situation has become inequitable and One employee who lost their job threatened to take costly for employers, who are doing what my constituent my constituent to a tribunal, however, on the grounds has done and refusing to take on more staff, which is of age and sex discrimination, later adding religious bad for all of us. discrimination, too, unless they were paid £1,200. The hon. Member for Bolton West may think that the Several hon. Members rose— employer should have just paid up, but, for the owner of a micro-business—a café—with a couple of employees, Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): Before I call £1,200 would have meant his profits gone for a few weeks. the next speaker, I am going to drop the time limit to seven minutes. It is only fair that the Members who have A meeting was therefore convened, but the decision been sitting here get a chance to speak. If anybody is remained the same, in support of the employer, so the upset, please remember that the Front Benchers took ex-employee went to a tribunal, the stage at which my up a lot of time at the beginning. constituent feels the whole system is organised against employers. He had no recourse to free legal advice, but 8.45 pm his ex-employee found immediate help from Citizens Advice and, subsequently, a pro bono barrister. My Mr David Anderson (Blaydon) (Lab): Like everybody constituent had to defend himself because he could not else in this Chamber, I represent a diverse community afford legal assistance. that is not just based on big businesses or the public sector but has very many small businesses. The issues The ex-employee’s claim went up from £1,200 to that people from those businesses raise with me are not £4,500 and, by the time it was heard at the tribunal, had about employment rights but whether the banks are increased by almost tenfold to £10,000, partly because going to start lending some money so that they can the NHS had advised that legal action be taken against afford to expand and take more people into the workplace. my constituent for injury to feelings. My problem with the Bill as regards employment I find that part of the story strange, because I can rights is that it is not based on evidence or need, or on fully understand an NHS therapist confirming in writing great demand from the people of this country; rather, it that someone’s health had suffered as a result of losing is based on prejudice, opinion, conjecture and bias. It their job, but I do not see why or how they should builds on the attacks that the workers of this country advise people to take their employer to court. have already been suffering under the guise of deficit The case went on for 11 months, with my constituent reduction. We have had mass unemployment, pay freezes, representing himself while trying to run his café and reductions in pension entitlements, and people being organise it during a downturn. Eventually the tribunal made to work longer for fewer benefits. Now, as a result found in his favour, concluding that the employee was of the Downing street double-dip recession, we are seeing sacked for financial and flexibility reasons, as well as for another front opening up in the attacks on workers at performance and attitude issues. home and at work. This is a hugely important matter The case finally came to an end, but my constituent for the people of this country, because these proposals was out of pocket, having had to appear by himself at will be seen by some employers—not all—as a right to all tribunal hearings, and I am sorry to say that he has exploit their employees. now decided to sell his business. He never wants to go None of this is new. The Conservatives have never through such a battle again, and he has made it clear supported positive rights for working people; they have that, if people ask him for advice on setting up their spent the last two centuries attacking and undermining own business, he will tell them not to bother as it is not them. Even in the recent past, they were against the worth the stress, strain and hassle. That is not only sad national minimum wage and, as we heard earlier, protections for him and for other businesses, but bad for the local for agency workers. They were against the right to paid economy and for local people looking for work, because and increased holidays. Now, most of those rights that as business picked up I am sure that my constituent have been won for the most vulnerable and the worst- would have ratcheted up his part-time work force. organised sectors of our society are under threat. On 115 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 116 Bill Bill [Mr David Anderson] This is like a rerun of “Back to the Future”. The Secretary of State is Doc Brown, the well-meaning but the last day before the recess, we saw the disgraceful hapless boffin. The Chancellor is Biff the bully, who will slipping out of the information that the gangmasters not let anyone get in his way. The workers of this legislation is to be watered down. What an atrocious country are playing Marty McFly, the poor guy who thing to do; people must have no memory or no respect. has to run to stand still, while all around him everything These are basic rights in civilised nations, and they he has ever done is disappearing before his very eyes. should be celebrated, not denigrated. Unfortunately, this is not “Back to the Future”, because The Conservatives have shown their true colours with that, as people know, had a happy ending. an anti-worker, anti-trade union agenda disguised as a A happy ending is possible only if one of the following means of promoting growth. I would say that, wouldn’t things happens. First, the Government could see the I? I have been a trade unionist for 44 years, and I admit error of their ways and pull back from these callous and to being biased, but it is not just me who is saying it. calculated attacks on working men and women. Secondly, Listen to Mike Emmett of the Chartered Institute of the yellow human shields of the Liberal Democrats in Personnel and Development: this House could finally get some bottle and give their “If the Government is serious about stimulating economic Secretary of State the backbone to stand up for what he growth, it will look to support employers’ efforts to build an believes in. Having seen the attendance of the Liberal engaged workforce. Taking away employment rights is not the Democrats tonight, I guess that that is not going to answer.” happen. Thirdly, if the Bill goes through and workers’ There is disagreement even within, although not at the rights are attacked, those on the Labour Front Bench heart of, Government. On 21 May, the Business Secretary must commit unequivocally to repeal the legislation at said in The Sun: the first opportunity when we return to government. “Some people think that if labour rights were stripped down to Anything less will be seen as a betrayal of the workers the most basic minimum, employers would start hiring and the of this country and will not be easily forgiven or forgotten. economy would soar again. This is complete nonsense. British We should be focusing in this debate on how we can workers are an asset, not just a cost for company bosses. That is support businesses to hire more workers, not on how we why I am opposed to the ideological zealots who want to encourage British firms to fire at will.” can legislate to help the rotten ones to fire workers. This pathetic Bill says more about the nature of today’s So who wants it apart from the zealots in No. 10 and Government than almost anything else that they have No. 11 Downing street? Well, Adrian Beecroft wants done and it must be resisted both inside and outside this it—the man who gave the Tories half a million pounds. House. Give him his due: at least he is honest. He said: “Some people would be dismissed simply because their employer did not like them. While this is sad…it is a price worth paying”. 8.52 pm Now where have we heard that before? Julian Smith (Skipton and Ripon) (Con): I will restrict my comments to the regulatory aspects of the Bill. Ian Lavery: Does my hon. Friend share my experience The Government were left a regulatory nightmare by of never having met an employer who believes that this the Labour Government. The last Government introduced Bill will be of any benefit to employees or to the six regulations a day, the CBI estimates that employment economy as a whole? law alone has cost British business £100 billion since 1998, and 107 of the 152 employment regulations on Mr Anderson: It is clear from our discussions that the statute book were added under the Labour Government. nobody who represents employees believes that the Bill Better regulation attempts came and went under Labour. will improve growth. As was said earlier, the OECD has Regulation tsars reporting to the Prime Minister were said that even though we have some of the weakest placed at the top table for about 10 minutes and then employment rights in the developed world, countries quickly dropped. In the good years, Labour not only with more stringent rights are performing much better lost control of our budgets, but added piles upon piles than we are. It is quite clear that it does not work. of new rules and red tape on British business and the Beecroft said that the consequences are a “price worth public sector. paying”, which of course is what the Prime Minister’s Regulation has a vital role to play in a market economy, former boss, Norman Lamont, said in 1992—the last but it also imposes costs that can stifle innovation, time there were 3 million people on the dole in this present barriers to market entrants and deter economic country. We have seen the truth. The Conservatives activity, as we have heard in numerous examples tonight. believe that mass unemployment is a tool of public I do not understand the evidence given by the shadow policy. They believe that bosses should be able to fire Secretary of State. A recent MORI poll for Capital One’s people just because they do not like them. They believe report, “The ties that bind?”, confirmed that regulation that it is in the national interest for the work force to tops the list of issues facing very small businesses, with have to accept poor pay and insecurity at work, and to 64% of micro-businesses believing that the regulatory be made to work without the right to complain. burdens that they face are far too high. The legislation will be used to get rid of union The Government have done a lot on this issue: they representatives. It will be used to dilute the impact of have set up the independent advisory committee on health and safety representatives. It will be used to get regulatory reform; they are publishing quarterly regulatory rid of those who question authority. It will protect and statements; there has been the red tape challenge, which promote the blue-eyed boys and girls who put up with is now part of the Bill; there is the ongoing employment anything without complaint and who do exactly what law review; and the one-in, one-out process is firmly the boss wants, regardless of the consequences. under way and is holding each Department to account. 117 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 118 Bill Bill The Government have done much more serious work groups. We should be trying to bring things together, as on regulation over the past two years than Labour did the Americans are doing, so that we can make a serious in 13. This Bill is part of that good work. attempt at reducing regulation in future. Since 2010, the Government have introduced a number A lot has been done, but we need even more ambition. of measures to simplify the employment environment, I urge Ministers at all times to listen to the voice of raising the qualifying period for unfair dismissal from business, particularly those not represented by business one year to two, reducing the risk of vexatious tribunal organisations, which at the moment are crying out for claims, and introducing fees for those wishing to pursue the freedom just to get on with their jobs. a tribunal claim. As we have heard, being taken to a tribunal is one of the biggest fears of our smallest 8.58 pm employers. The main change—introducing mandatory Mark Durkan (Foyle) (SDLP): As a Member who is pre-claim conciliation—will help. Indeed, the Forum of due to give evidence to the commission on the West Private Business has already said that 70% of its members Lothian question later this week, I am particularly believe that more conciliation is a positive step in avoiding conscious of the fact that this Bill is something of a cases escalating. Such an approach is also good value chequerboard in terms of its territorial application. for money—ACAS has had a 75% success rate in the One of the key elements that obviously applies UK-wide discretionary conciliation cases it has dealt with—and is the green investment bank. I welcome the moves to will save businesses the cost of defending themselves, develop the green investment bank, but I regret the fact which comes to £4,000 on average. that, as the amendment states, it is not as well resourced However, I have a few observations. If we are to give as it might be. The Bill does not give me cause to believe ACAS this further power, does it have the resources for that it will be as active a driver and supporter of the it? That issue came up in the consultation. Also, do we green economy in the long term as it should be. need to restrict mediation to ACAS? Can we not include My more particular concern is to ensure that when private and other providers to help in mediation? I the Bill is processed through the House, the provisions would be interested to hear the Minister’s comments relating to the green investment bank are tested to about that. ACAS also has to secure permission from ensure that the references to the green economy in the the employee to contact the employer during the conciliation UK are not inordinately exclusive in regard to Northern process. We need to give the mediator absolute access to Ireland. Many of the projects there that might seek both the employee and the employer, so that it can support from the green investment bank could have a properly conduct the mediation process. We also need cross-border, cross-jurisdictional character. In offshore to ensure that the mediation process is as informal as wind projects, for example, the geography and topography possible, so that the employer does not have to get of natural resources and renewable energy point to tooled up with expensive lawyers, which is an issue that it being sensible for those projects to cross borders. the Federation of Small Businesses has raised. I am The present renewables obligation certificates regime concerned about the proposals for fines because, as the discriminates against and excludes cross-border projects, CBI has argued, tribunals are a form of grievance and we need to ensure that that mistake is not repeated resolution, not a criminal court. If we are going to have with the green investment bank if we are to maximise its fines, there needs to be some sort of exemption based opportunities. on company size. Similarly, a large number of the provisions on However, let me get back to the positives. The change competition and markets are UK-wide, and I want to to unfair dismissal compensation is a good move. It will see some aspects of them teased out—and possibly mean that companies of different sizes should be able to ironed out—not least in relation to their possible application get different awards, which is much fairer for the very in Northern Ireland. Among those measures is the smallest businesses in our country. On unfair dismissal, proposal to take the consumer education role of the I pay tribute to the Minister, because with these compromise Office of Fair Trading and give it to Citizens Advice. statements he has got the key to exactly what businesses Given that the citizens advice service in Northern Ireland want. I think they will be known as “Lamb statements”, operates on a different statutory footing from the one in because they will make business much easier for our smallest England, we must ensure that there are no oversights employees and will make compromise agreements—which and no inadvertent black holes in relation to that key have previously been accessible only to very well-off issue. companies—accessible to our smallest firms. The provisions on employment law will clearly apply Let me turn to regulation more generally. There have to Great Britain, but the reality is that changes of that already been some good moves, which I outlined earlier. nature are likely to become predictive legislation for The sunset clauses in the Bill, the relaxation of inspections, Northern Ireland. They set the conditions in many the red tape challenge and the primary authority changes ways, which is why I join my hon. Friends in expressing are all good moves too. However, I urge the Government my profound reservations and objections to some of to be a bit more ambitious. May I urge Ministers to those unnecessary changes. Given that the Prime Minister look at the one-in, one-out rule sector by sector, and seems reluctant to dismiss anyone even when there are segment of law by segment of law? Can we include compelling reasons to do so, I find it strange that he European directives as soon as possible? Can we also wants to make it his business to ensure that other take a hard look at the infrastructure of our regulatory people can be fired without any compelling reason reform? If we look at what the Americans are doing whatever. with OIRA—the office of information and regulatory There is one element that I would have liked to see in affairs—we see the disparate construction of our different the Bill. On this, I disagree with my hon. Friend the deregulatory bodies, with the Better Regulation Executive Member for Great Grimsby (Austin Mitchell). He called in BIS, the local regulatory offices and various other it a “ragbag” of a Bill, but I am asking for a further 119 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 120 Bill Bill [Mark Durkan] literally on top of small businesses, as that is what my family did. There is so much to commend in the Bill. We element to be added. I note that part 3 of schedule 17 have heard from right hon. and hon. Members this contains a small amendment to the Insolvency Act 1986 evening who have focused on regulation. I think that in relation to early discharge from bankruptcy. It refers Ministers should be commended for all their efforts, to section 279 of the Act, but I believe that the Government however, as they have demonstrated their desire to keep should use the Bill to reform section 233. I asked the Britain open for business by keeping tax, particularly Minister about this at topical questions: on the subject corporation tax, low. That applies to small profits rates, of administration costs, businesses that are in administration too, which were due to increase under Labour. These are being held to ransom and put out of business by welcome steps are in complete contrast to what Labour suppliers. proposed. As it stands, the Insolvency Act fails to give businesses I shall focus my remarks on regulation, even though here the same kind of protection that is provided by it has been touched on already. I believe that using fiscal chapter 11 in the United States. Under chapter 11, levers and taxation policy alone to stimulate private suppliers have to continue to supply a business under sector economic growth and to encourage entrepreneurship the existing terms. Here, suppliers are asked to continue can go only so far. Lower taxes, for example, must be to provide, but there is nothing to prevent them from complemented by a significant reduction in the costs changing their terms. Many demand increased tariffs and burdens imposed by regulation. That is why this and ransom payments, and many cut off supplies and legislation is not only welcome but urgently needed. create a new contract. Businesses in that situation find it Business men and entrepreneurs, particularly small very hard to cope. They also find it hard to persuade the businesses, do not want to spend their time, often late banks to support them through their administration, at into the night, filling in forms, ticking boxes and dealing a time when they are vulnerable to being held to ransom with bureaucracy, regulation and red tape. That takes a by such predatory action by suppliers. disproportionate amount of their time when they could When the Insolvency Act was passed in 1986, the be running their businesses. They want to be able to concept of on-suppliers—people with whom firms have take risks, grow their businesses and create jobs rather a contract to supply, but who are sourcing the supply than be swamped in bureaucracy and red tape. I think from others in areas such as telephony and electricity—was that the proliferation of red tape over recent years is a not clearly provided for. Some of the subsequent court damning indictment of the last Government’s record in decisions seem to be adding to the confusion. The office and their failure to support businesses. The regulatory professional trade body dealing with insolvency, R3, framework they left behind has been deeply damaging believes that this needs to be dealt with, and that up to to the growth of our economy. 2,000 firms a year could be saved if a legal change of The Forum of Private Business has estimated the this nature could be made, allowing them to be protected cost of compliance with regulations at something like and to trade in administration. Jobs would be saved, as £16.8 billion, with the average cost per business totalling well as firms, if we changed the legislation in that way. It around £14,000. These are astonishing figures when we would not be a regulatory change getting in the way of think that the annual cost of compliance is equivalent good business; it would be a regulatory reform that to the amount spent on Crossrail or 11 times the total supported businesses in the difficult circumstances in Government budget for apprenticeships alone. These which they find themselves, and it would allow them to are deeply alarming figures. If even a modest amount of continue. If one part of the Insolvency Act can be those costs could be removed, Britain’s 4.5 million small amended through the Bill, I see no reason why this even businesses would be more competitive internationally, more compelling case for reform should not be included. able to reduce costs for their customers and to expand The Minister’s predecessor stated last October that to create more jobs and growth domestically. the Government had announced that they would consider We have heard much this evening about regulations the case for updating section 233 of the Insolvency Act in the sphere of employment law, with 107 new employment and the wider issue of termination clauses. I would say regulations added since 1998. The consequences are clear that the case is compelling, and it is supported not only to anyone who has had any experience of small businesses. by R3, the professional body dealing with insolvency, I hosted the reception for the FSB earlier this evening; but by the Federation of Small Businesses, the British it has stressed the disproportionate impact of these Chambers of Commerce, the Association of British regulations, seriously affecting such businesses. Insurers and the British Property Federation. Let us have this much-needed reform, not the specious and There is no doubt that businesses large and small will unnecessary changes that the Bill provides for elsewhere. welcome clause 49 and the introduction of sunset and review clauses into regulation. Those measures build on Several hon. Members rose— “Sunsetting Regulations: Guidance”, published by the Government in December, which recommended that Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): A number regulations which impose burdens on businesses be of Members wish to contribute, so I shall lower the reviewed more frequently—within five years—and should limit to six minutes. expire within seven years. That is important, because the cost of regulations can spiral, and they can have a disproportionate effect. However, I urge the Government 9.5 pm to ensure that those regular reviews of regulations not Priti Patel (Witham) (Con): I welcome this Bill, only take place but lead to changes when the burdens particularly the Government’s commitment to cut the imposed on business are too great. Ministers have an cost of regulations in order to support business growth. opportunity to focus on what is working and what is I say that as someone who spent 30 years growing up not. We have already heard about one in, one out. My 121 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 122 Bill Bill preference would be for no regulations in and a lot of I am sorry that the Government have missed an regulations out, and the same applies to Europe, but at opportunity to link—proactively, ambitiously and this stage Ministers need to focus more on what needs imaginatively—labour market justice with economic success to be scrapped in order to free up businesses. in an explicit way. The Bill could have included measures In the brief time available to me, I want to touch on to improve employment opportunity and labour market the international dimension of enterprise and regulation. justice. Measures that tackle occupational segregation Last month I had the privilege of visiting London and introduce the anonymising of application processes Gateway, which is an expanding part of the county of have been shown to improve access to the labour market, Essex. As an Essex MP, I am proud to represent the yet there is no sign of any such provisions. The Government entrepreneurial spirit that can be seen there. There is a also have a social mobility strategy that they are supposed colossal amount of entrepreneurship in Essex, and London to be promoting, but that, too, is in no way reflected Gateway is a very good example of a selling point for here, or even mentioned. UK plc. In the face of many regulatory hurdles, foreign The Bill presents an opportunity to create the conditions direct investment in the UK has helped to develop the for an equal, not an unequal, recovery—a recovery that site into an incredible new port and logistics park which promotes, supports and makes use of the talents and will create a great many jobs and boost our economy, contributions of all. I regret that the Secretary of State just on the cusp of London. I think that Ministers could has thus far failed to take that opportunity, but he still learn from some of the challenges that have been met has time to correct the omission. I say to the Government there, and could find ways of bringing more foreign that if Ministers do not bring forward amendments to direct investment to the UK and showcasing it, and create the genuine conditions for economic recovery London, internationally. The selling point would be the and equal opportunity in the labour market during the removal of many of the regulatory burdens that we passage of the Bill, we most certainly will. have seen in the past, but with which the Government are now dealing. 9.16 pm I urge the Government to press ahead with the Bill, Neil Carmichael (Stroud) (Con): It is a great honour and to embark on a radical programme of deregulation to be called to speak in this important debate, and I am and regulatory reform. That would encourage more pleased to follow the hon. Member for Stretford and businesses like DP World, and even Tata and Glaxo, to Urmston (Kate Green). follow in their investment footsteps, and to create more First, I want to make two general points. If we were jobs and economic growth in this country. relying merely on passing legislation to promote economic 9.12 pm growth, we would have had a lot of economic growth already, because the truth of the matter is that legislation Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab): Clause 51 is aplenty. What matters, however, is what that legislation seeks to repeal a number of provisions in the Equality actually does, and this Bill will empower businesses to Act 2006. I am puzzled by the clause, because most of get on and do what they need to do, which is employ the provisions that it seeks to repeal have nothing to do people and be innovative. My first general point, therefore, with the regulatory burden on business. As was pointed is that we need legislation that trusts business to get on out by my hon. Friend the Member for Ayr, Carrick with the job of generating economic growth. and Cumnock (Sandra Osborne), in repealing the good relations and general duty provisions that currently My second general point is that we must not see this apply to the Commission for Equality and Human Bill in isolation from other Bills, such as the draft Rights, we will make no difference to business directly, energy Bill, which will pave the way for new market but will change the context and undermine the equalities developments, new technologies and new ways of providing philosophy which I believe is important for a successful energy. We need joined-up government. Indeed, economic economic recovery. I shall say more about that in a policy is all about joined-up government, such as linking moment. what this Bill paves the way for with other important pieces of legislation. Elsewhere, through changes in regulations, the Government are directly attacking some of the principles Let me illustrate that by talking about the green that protect employees and guarantee labour market investment bank. I serve on the Environmental Audit equality. They are consulting on proposals that have Committee, and we produced a thorough report on the resulted from the red tape challenge: proposals to remove bank. We made three points, which I shall go through employer responsibility for third-party harassment, to now as they are important both in respect of this Bill ensure that decisions by employment tribunals will no and for our future prospects of developing an economy longer apply to all employees, and to remove the use of that is both CO2- effective and economically productive. the statutory questionnaire. When I asked the Secretary The Bill must ensure that the green investment bank of State about those proposals earlier this evening, he thinks about small and medium-sized businesses. We seemed to say categorically that none of them would must have legislation that salutes SMEs in the technology appear in the Bill. We will hold him to that, because and energy production sectors and recognises their value. watering down equalities legislation is certainly not a They are the businesses that will come up with the good recipe for economic growth. On the contrary, labour new ideas that translate into development. That is certainly market justice and fair access for all to employment happening in my constituency, and I expect it to happen opportunities are a prerequisite, not a problem, for in others. This Bill needs to help bring that about. The economic success. An unequal recovery which fails to first point, therefore, is that we must be sure that SMEs make the most of everyone’s talents and take steps that can benefit from the green investment bank. encourage and support employee loyalty, and which The second point is that it has to be a bank, not a therefore fails to stimulate productivity, is no recovery fund. If it were a fund, we would be using the regional at all. development funds and whatever else might be at our 123 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 124 Bill Bill [Neil Carmichael] their money, growth came to a standstill and the deficit is £156 billion higher than previously forecast. Austerity disposal. We need a bank that knows what it can do in simply is not working. terms of both attracting other investment and investing I welcome the green investment bank and the £3 billion itself and levering in additional money. It must have fund, but I think what we really need to do is refocus clout in the market. That is essential, because if it is to our procurement on green companies and SMEs generally be a bank, it must look like a bank and feel like a bank, to generate the jobs and production needed to support and people must think it is a bank. I acknowledge the public services. As I mentioned earlier, in Wales, 70% of constraints imposed by the deficit reduction programme procurement is spent through SMEs, 50% of which are and so on, and I have said several times in the House based in Wales, whereas in England the figure is 7%. that we must reduce the deficit, but we must also signal The Government spend 93% of the taxpayers’ money that the green investment bank will be significant—a with great big companies—normally international powerhouse of support for innovation, development companies that generate jobs abroad and do not pay tax and everything else. here. It is completely crazy. We should be using our procurement facilities to generate green jobs, in particular Ian Lavery: At this point, does the hon. Gentleman in SMEs, but the Government simply are not doing that. believe that the green investment bank is a bank or a What about the devolution debate—devolving tax fund? powers to Wales and Scotland? I am highly sceptical Neil Carmichael: It is called a green investment bank about that. At a time when, across Europe, we are and that is what I shall call it, but I accept the need for seeing a monetary union that increasingly requires fiscal us to ensure, in the shortest possible time, that it is a real and political union to work, we are being urged to bank and not just a fund. The fund is big, though— devolve borrowing and tax to the regions and nations of £3 billion—and we should bear that in mind. the United Kingdom. Obviously, the political trick here is to say to Wales, “You can borrow. You can tax. If you The third important point about the green investment want some more spending, raise your own money from bank is the quality of its expertise. That will be vital in a a weaker tax base.” We can see where that is going and bank that is dealing with the sort of technology for I do not think that people will be fooled. which its support will be sought. The Minister must recognise that the green investment bank has to be Beecroft’s proposals are the hidden agenda. The Business shaped in such a way that likely investors, borrowers Secretary says that they are a load of rubbish, but we and businesses that approach that bank will feel comfortable can see a diluted version of them coming through. It is with the expertise it has and that, in turn, the bank can basically a charter for intimidation and harassment. As deliver that expertise to the firms. If we look at the I said earlier, if a female employee says no to a boss who banking system across the European Union, we can see asks, “Will you sleep with me?”, the next thing that is that where institutions have that expertise—the European going to happen is that she will lose her job. It may be a Investment Bank is a good example—it works. We have bit more subtle than that, but that is the sort of pressure to build those critical elements into the legislation, so that we are seeing through a re-invention of Dickensian that the green investment bank packs a punch in terms Britain and a forthcoming Dickensian workhouse. This of investment, expertise and small businesses. is retrograde, unnecessary and completely contrary to where Britain should be going. 9.21 pm Regional pay is another attempt, certainly in Wales, to reduce pay. It is to be reduced by about 20%, at a time Geraint Davies (Swansea West) (Lab/Co-op): I think when 40% of workers in my constituency are in the the Bill is not just a lost opportunity but a thinly veiled public sector. They are seeing their jobs cut, their pensions attack on workers’ rights. It pretends to be about growth, cut and their pay frozen, and now the Tories in England but contains no real growth strategy. In Britain and are saying, “We’ve got a good idea. We’ll cut your pay across Europe, the big political issue is growth versus by 20% and completely take the base out of the local cuts to get down the deficit and balance the books, but economy.” This is completely ridiculous. It would mean we are seeing that austerity literally is not working. On that a GP from Swansea would be paid more if they Sunday, the Greeks will hold another election, but what were in Bristol. We want to attract inward investment are they being offered? Cuts in their pensions, their from people who want decent schools, decent health salaries and their jobs—further poverty. On the plus services and all the rest. Are they going to come to a side, why are they not being offered investment in solar place where the Tories have denuded that in the name of forests across Greece, to provide energy for Europe; in regional pay? Aa time when the local authority offers railways, to connect up the tourism business; in universal 10 apprenticeships and gets 800 applications, there is no broadband, to connect them to the world; or in a share shortage of people wanting to work. of research and innovation? Where is the balance? It is This Bill is a mean-minded, pathetic and unambitious not working. bit of nonsense. Nye Bevan pointed out that, in times of In south Wales, the area I represent as a Swansea MP, great economic difficulty, there is dynamic struggle we want electrification of the railway to Swansea, a between private property, equality and democracy, and lowering of the bridge tolls and cities working together ultimately the Tories will attack democracy in order to in city regions—an initiative I am pushing forward load the burden of the mistakes of the rich people—the locally. We want a fiscal stimulus like the one seen under bankers—on to the backs of the poor. What we are Brown and Obama, when what could have been a world seeing in Wales is not only the reduction from 40 to depression ended up becoming fragile growth. Now, we 30 MPs, and not just individuals now not required to have zero growth thanks to the Chancellor suddenly register to vote and not just the latest attempt to say announcing that he was going to sack 500,000 public to the Welsh Assembly Government, “You will never sector workers—Bob’s your uncle, people stopped spending have a majority Government again, because 30 will be 125 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 126 Bill Bill elected by first past the post and 30 by regional list”; consultation whatever so far—and a thorough review of this is all part of a carefully choreographed situation the law on whistleblowing. I ask the Government to where poorer people will have fewer MPs and will vote listen to what those campaigners are saying, initiate that less, particularly in places such as Wales, in order to review, look again at the proposal in the Bill, think keep a Tory Administration nationally. This goes back again, and return with proposals that will strengthen in time to the orthodox austerity, and making the poor whistleblowing in this country rather than weaken it. poorer and giving back to the rich on the 50p tax rate. This stinks, and it does nothing for growth. We have a Prime Minister who preaches growth while he is in 9.31 pm Europe but practises austerity at home. This is a mean Mr Iain Wright (Hartlepool) (Lab): This has been an bit of legislation and it is a lost opportunity. At a time important if somewhat curtailed debate. In the time we when the global spotlight is on Britain with the Olympics, have had, 21 hon. Members from all parties made we should be ashamed of ourselves. considered and high-quality speeches, with the exception of Lib Dem Back Benchers and Scottish National party 9.27 pm Members, who made no speeches, high quality or otherwise. Katy Clark (North Ayrshire and Arran) (Lab): Time Since the Secretary of State rose at 5.44 pm to open restraints mean that I will keep my contribution brief, the debate, 1,368 new companies have been registered in Mr Deputy Speaker, and address only one aspect of this Russia, the country with the largest and fastest-growing wide-ranging Bill—the proposals relating to whistleblowing. number of business start-ups anywhere on earth; 21,394 Of course, the Secretary of State did not address them passenger cars have been manufactured in China; in his opening contribution, although the Labour Front- 975 patents have been filed in the US; 338 people Bench team have indicated that they will look at these have enrolled on engineering degrees in India; and issues in detail in Committee. 60,000 iPhones and 20,250 iPads have been manufactured The provisions in this Bill will amend the landmark and sold around the world. Any enterprise Bill that the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, which was introduced House considers must tackle on behalf of British business by the previous Government after many years—decades, that unprecedented level of intense international in fact—of campaigning by those seeking to have competition. whistleblowing legislation in this country. It put the UK That is an urgent task because, as we have heard, at the forefront of corporate governance legislation at we are slipping down the league tables of global the time of its introduction. The Government’s amendment competitiveness. As my hon. Friend the Member for has the effect of introducing a public interest test into Streatham (Mr Umunna) said in his excellent opening that Act, which I believe will weaken the legislation for speech, according to the World Bank’s global survey of anybody wishing to rely on it. I understand that the doing business, when the Government took office, Britain Government say that they are proposing this amendment was fourth in the world in terms of the ease of doing in this way in order to overcome a legal loophole, which business; it is now seventh. Across the different categories, has resulted in part from the case of Parkins v. Sodexho our competitiveness is slipping alarmingly. On the ease Ltd. However, those who have been campaigning on of starting a business, we have slipped from 16th to this issue, such as Public Concern at Work, are extremely 19th; on dealing with construction permits, we have concerned that introducing this proposal in this way slipped from 16th to 22nd; and on registering property, will weaken the legislation for everybody. There is no we have slipped from 23rd to 35th. We are now ranked doubt that a loophole needs to be addressed in respect 60th in the world on companies gaining access to electricity, of that legal case, but the concern is that the Government’s behind the likes of Chile, Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala amendment will not address it and instead will make it and Iraq. more difficult for anybody wanting to rely on the legislation. The task is made even more urgent because the There is no doubt that after more than a decade of the Government’s policies have pushed the British economy Act being relied on in this country we need to look at into reverse and into recession. As my hon. Friend rightly this area again. There is no doubt that we need to said, when the Government took office, the British economy improve the legislation and learn the lessons of experiences was growing. Since the spending review, it has shrunk over the past decade and more. by 0.4%. We are now in a double-dip recession made in We need to look at vicarious liability, which cannot Downing street. Fifty businesses are going under each be relied on by people trying to use the 2008 Act. and every single day. Recently, three nurses in Manchester who were concerned The Chancellor may wish to blame the weather, even that their colleague had lied about their qualifications though this country has seen weather before. He may were unable to rely on the original legislation because it wish to blame, as he did at the weekend, high oil prices, did not deal with vicarious liability. even though oil was trading in London this morning at Other aspects highlighted by recent employment cases a 17-month low and the price of Brent crude is 25% of also need to be considered. The Government accept its March peak. He may wish to blame the jubilee, or that there are difficulties with certain groups using the the eurozone, which he may claim is killing Britain’s legislation, such as students on vocational placements, prospects for growth, but even now Tory MPs are general practitioners and others. There is no doubt that wising up to the fact that he is looking for excuses or the scope of the Act needs to be widened. Indeed, we alibis. They are questioning the political genius and need a separate public interest category, as there is in economic competence of the man who gave them the the United States. pasty tax and raised taxes for pensioners while providing Those who have campaigned on whistleblowing are tax cuts for multi-millionaires. It is not business that clear that the Bill is a step backwards. They are calling should stop whinging and work harder, as the Foreign for a full public consultation—there has been no Secretary suggests, it is the part-time Chancellor. 127 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 128 Bill Bill [Mr Iain Wright] However, he said that “we have not had reassurance from the government.” The Bill could have addressed such failures. It has As we have heard, the situation has been made worse been trailed in the media as the flagship piece of legislation by the fact that the Government continue to cause to make enterprise, growth and competitiveness this uncertainty and delay as a result of the Treasury’s Administration’s principal policy. It is hardly that. Instead refusal to allow the green investment bank to borrow it is a mishmash, an ad hoc rag-bag of measures, as my until 2016 at the earliest. The hon. Members for Lancaster hon. Friend the Member for West Bromwich West and Fleetwood (Eric Ollerenshaw) and for Stroud (Neil (Mr Bailey), the Chair of the Business, Innovation and Carmichael)—I do not see the latter in his place—raised Skills Committee, and my hon. Friend the Member for that issue. A bank that does not borrow cannot be Great Grimsby (Austin Mitchell) said. It reflects a called a bank, as my right hon. Friend the Member for Government who, after only two years in office, have Wentworth and Dearne (John Healey) and my hon. run out of ideas. There is no strategic thread, no compelling Friend the Member for Stoke-on-Trent North (Joan vision and nothing that will provide real help for British Walley) said in powerful interventions. Investment and enterprise, as my hon. Friend the Member for Glasgow leverage from the private sector now, while the economy North East (Mr Bain) eloquently pointed out in a is in a double-dip recession, could help us get into powerful contribution. recovery and out of this mess. As my hon. Friend the The Bill’s span is wide. For example, clause 50 concerns Member for Foyle (Mark Durkan) said, there is a risk heritage planning legislation and clause 51 deals with that the green investment bank will not be as active a the Equality and Human Rights Commission. Incidentally, driver in economic recovery as it should. my hon. Friends the Members for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock (Sandra Osborne) and for Stretford and Urmston A large number of hon. Members, certainly on the (Kate Green) made powerful speeches about that clause. Labour Benches, rightly mentioned their concerns about I absolutely agree with them, and we will oppose the the proposed changes to employment legislation. My measure firmly in Committee. There is also clause 56, hon. Friend the Member for Bolton West (Julie Hilling), which deals with copyright. That wide span does not for example, brought to bear her considerable experience really show an Administration confident in their approach in the matter. My hon. Friend the Member for Blaydon and clear about their aims for the British economy. (Mr Anderson) said that the proposals were based on Instead, it exposes a situation in which Ministers are bias, “Back to the Future”, opinion, anecdote and desperately trailing around Whitehall asking for off-the-shelf prejudice. My hon. Friend the Member for North Ayrshire proposals to pad out a supposedly flagship Bill. British and Arran (Katy Clark) mentioned whistleblowing, and business deserves better. we will certainly be raising and looking closely at that in Committee. Businesses are crying out for a productive partnership with Government. They want to work together on a The hon. Member for Stourbridge (Margot James) long-term vision for the British economy in the next few said that in her opinion health and safety legislation is a decades and put in place a powerful industrial strategy burden. I do not know whether she commemorates to allow Britain to thrive. However, there is nothing of workers’ memorial day every 28 April, but the people substance in the Bill that will allow such a strategy to who have been injured and the families who have lost materialise. loved ones will not think that health and safety legislation Several hon. Members, such as my hon. Friends the is a burden. Members for Glasgow North East, for West Bromwich The hon. Member for Bury St Edmunds (Mr Ruffley) West and for Swansea West (Geraint Davies), mentioned cited two cases from his constituency, in the retail sector the Bill’s provision for the establishment of the green of all sectors. He said that the biggest burden facing the investment bank. We support the principles of such a retail sector was not the lack of demand, the lack of bank. Indeed, it was under the previous Labour consumer confidence or the rise in VAT imposed by this Government that the decision to establish one was Government, but unfair dismissal. The idea that business taken. However, this Government’s two-year delay and growth is being held back by burdensome employment dither has meant that the UK is slipping ever further regulation is simply absurd. behind our global competitors in investment in green I would say to the hon. Member for Northampton growth. We have fallen from third in the world for South (Mr Binley)—I have a lot of affection for him investment in clean technology when Labour left power and know that he has long decades of experience in to seventh in the world today. business—that, as my hon. Friend the Member for Even though I can see the point that investment rose Streatham said, only 6% of businesses said that regulation last year, Pew Research has stated that that was largely was the main barrier to growth, with nearly half saying because that the biggest obstacle to business success was the dire “investors rushed to initiate projects before policy reforms go into state of the economy. effect that could curtail incentives”— reforms such as the botched feed-in tariff. From a Mr Binley rose— position in which we could have taken a first-mover premium in the new global manufacturing sector, the Government are losing this country our competitive Mr Wright: I am sure that the hon. Gentleman will advantage. Earlier this year the chief executive of Vestas, agree with me. the world’s largest wind turbine maker, said that his company was postponing investment in the UK, stating: Mr Binley: Does the Opposition spokesman, for whom “The most important issue that our customers have is a long-term I have equal affection, recognise that those people would policy framework that is required to put in these investments, have placed it at the very top of the list if the previous which are huge.” Labour Government had not created so many economic 129 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 130 Bill Bill problems that of course other matters came before it? the best in the world—third behind only the US and None the less, most people named it as one of the Germany—so it is of concern that on this Government’s problems. watch, the Global Competition Review has downgraded the status of the Office of Fair Trading, following what Mr Wright: The hon. Gentleman is a wily old bird and it termed the OFT’s “dismal” enforcement on cartels. In he knows that the economy is in recession not because Committee, we will scrutinise closely and challenge the of the UK employment regime or because there is Government’s proposals to ensure that our competition somehow a need to make it easier to fire workers at will, regime remains best in class. but because, as my hon. Friend the Member for Great The Government had a great opportunity in this Bill Grimsby said, the Government have choked off demand to deal with the consequences of their failed economic by cutting spending too fast and raising taxes such as policies. The Bill was a chance to put in place legislative VAT too far. As my hon. Friend the Member for Bolton measures to enhance this country’s economic competitive West pointed out, removing the rights of workers will position, and to set in train policy certainty for investors, only have the impact of increasing job insecurity, thereby which would allow them to invest for the long term. The damaging work force morale, productivity and confidence Bill could have helped our companies to improve their precisely at the time when we need to see more confidence productivity and decarbonise the economy, while allowing flowing through the economy. British firms to benefit from the green industrial revolution, The Government have repeatedly and pointedly failed which is happening now—not in 2016. It could have to rule out the prospect of Beecroft’s recommendations made a firm statement in law that failures and poor being brought forward as amendments to the Bill. The performance at the top of business would not be tolerated Secretary of State was somewhat vague on that matter. or rewarded with excessive pay, and it could have After penetrating interventions from my hon. Friend safeguarded consumers from powerful vested interests. the shadow Secretary of State and my hon. Friend the The Bill has made some progress on that, but not nearly Member for Stretford and Urmston, the Secretary of enough. It is a missed opportunity. It is a rag-bag that State said that as far as he was aware—although it is his exposes the Government’s lack of a compelling vision Bill—he did not see any prospect of that occurring. I and fails to help British business to compete in the hope that the Minister will make the Government’s global economy of today and tomorrow. On that basis, position crystal clear on the implementation of the I commend the reasoned amendment to the House. Beecroft recommendations during the Bill’s passage through Parliament. I hope he will confirm that none of 9.46 pm Beecroft’s recommendations will be in amendments tabled to the Bill and that he will work with us in Committee The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business, to ensure that any such amendments from Back Benchers Innovation and Skills (Norman Lamb): Ihavetosaythat will be rejected. I know that the hon. Member for I did not agree with much that the shadow Minister, the Bedford (Richard Fuller) wants to table such an amendment hon. Member for Hartlepool (Mr Wright), said, but I and I look forward to working with him—or against do agree that it has been a good debate, with many him—in Committee. reasoned contributions from Members on both sides of the House, which I very much welcome. I will try to Hon. Members also raised the proposals on directors’ address as many of the points made as I can. There will remuneration in part 6. We have made it clear that although obviously be further opportunities at subsequent stages we are generally supportive of what the Government to discuss detailed points. are doing, the proposals do not go nearly far enough. We need greater accountability and transparency, and Contrary to what the Opposition have argued, the the recent shareholder spring, which involved many Bill contains important measures that will encourage companies, suggests that investors believe that, too. long-term growth. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary Reports in the weekend media suggested that the of State explained in opening the debate, part of the Government will not empower shareholders with an Government’s wider strategy is to promote growth, annual binding vote on remuneration for executives, support business and create jobs. The Government inherited requiring it instead only every three years. Previously, a wholly unbalanced economy based very much on the Secretary of State has rightly stated that an annual consumer debt and a housing bubble. It created six new binding vote would provide investors with a powerful regulations every working day. Those are not the actions tool to hold executives to account, particularly as regards of a business-friendly Government. failure. He pledged that again today, which is very I shall deal first with the green investment bank. I am welcome. We intend to press forward in Committee glad that Members support its creation. As my right with amendments to this part of the Bill to ensure that hon. Friend made clear in his opening speech, the the matter is dealt with comprehensively and fairly and bank’s expertise will break new ground in the financing that all the recommendations of the High Pay Commission of green infrastructure projects, while demonstrating to are implemented, including those that workers sit on the market that such investments can deliver commercial remuneration committees. returns. The Government have made good progress in Parts 3 and 4 will establish the competition and building the bank, so that it can make investments as markets authority; the purpose is to improve the speed, soon as state aid approval is received. The establishment quality and robustness of decision making. We Labour of the bank is testimony to the leadership of this Members are keen to ensure that the competition regime Government in rebalancing the economy and putting in this country is the best in the world, so that innovation the green agenda at the heart of that project. and imagination are rewarded; in that respect, I agree The shadow Secretary of State and the hon. Members with the hon. Member for Bexleyheath and Crayford for West Bromwich West (Mr Bailey), for Stoke-on-Trent (Mr Evennett). When the Government came to power, North (Joan Walley), and for Glasgow North East the UK’s competitive environment was seen as one of (Mr Bain) raised concerns about the funding, and the 131 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 132 Bill Bill [Norman Lamb] tell us they have about ending up in an employment tribunal, we can help unlock the growth that we so borrowing powers, of the bank. The Government have desperately need. committed to the bank having £3 billion of funding up By extending the qualifying period for unfair dismissal to 2015. The bank will have borrowing powers thereafter, from one to two years, we have already taken action to subject to public sector debt falling—an entirely reasonable increase the period that employers have to decide whether proposition. That deferred ability to borrow from 2015 a new employee is the right one for the job, but we need will not affect the success of the green investment bank, to provide a solution where problems occur and where as it first needs to focus on consolidating its expertise the qualifying period has been exhausted. and developing a credible track record. The shadow Secretary of State asked whether any UK Green Investments has already made investments more elements of the Beecroft report would be implemented in waste infrastructure projects, and is considering major through the Bill. We do not intend to table any further investments in priority sectors such as offshore wind. amendments prompted by the recommendations in the Private sector investors have responded very positively, Beecroft report. and it is already clear that the bank will make a major My hon. Friend the Member for Bury St Edmunds contribution to the ability and willingness to invest in raised the question—the case, as it were—of exemptions the green economy. from employment regulations for small businesses. I am I turn now to the measures aimed at reforming not sure whether he is in the Chamber. The evidence the employment tribunal system. I welcome the from Germany is that when the reform was introduced acknowledgement by the hon. Member for Streatham to reduce employment protection for companies of up (Mr Umunna) on a previous occasion that improvements to 10 employees, it had no impact on the number of can be made to the way in which the system operates, people employed in small businesses. It therefore seems but the shadow Secretary of State today seems set that the evidence in favour is highly questionable. against any reform and fails to recognise that other On the measures we are proposing on settlement countries, including a social democrat Government in agreements, the all-party group on micro businesses, in Germany, have made reforms to make their labour its response to the call for evidence on compensated markets more flexible. We cannot afford to be complacent. no-fault dismissal, for which I am extremely grateful, Labour in government recognised the value of a relatively supported the idea that employers should have the option flexible labour market. Our labour market already performs of using well, but if we want to remain competitive it is imperative that we are aware of what other countries are doing. “a new simpler route to end employment relationships”. The all-party group states that in return for compensation Mr Umunna rose— employers should “be able to terminate a contract with an employee without going Norman Lamb: As my hon. Friend the Member for through a performance review and dismissal process. … this should be an option that is voluntary but which employers are Bury St Edmunds (Mr Ruffley) said, we must balance freely able to propose to employees without fear of being taken to the interests of those who are in work with the interests court.” of those who have no job and no prospects. We have to We agree almost entirely with that sentiment. I appreciate provide a mechanism to ensure that employers have the the comments of the hon. Member for Skipton and confidence to take on new employees. Ripon (Julian Smith) in the debate today. I say “almost entirely” because there is one important difference: we Mr Umunna: Will the Minister give way? do not think that this option should be available only to micro-businesses. Therefore, we will table a new clause Norman Lamb: I am afraid I do not have time. I need in Committee to ensure that an offer of settlement to get through the responses. cannot be used against an employer, any employer, in an This Government are determined to support parties unfair dismissal case, which will give businesses the to resolve their disputes between themselves, rather confidence to talk to their employees about bringing the than relying on a costly and time-consuming employment relationship to a swift end through the use of a settlement tribunal. A tribunal is an admission of failure and agreement. everything must be done, where practical, to prevent The shadow Secretary of State raised a concern about having to resort to it. The mediation of disputes retains trust and confidence in the employment relationship, employer flexibility while preserving workers’ rights but he will be aware that many businesses, probably and dignity, and our measures aim to encourage that including his former clients—big companies that further. probably paid him substantial hourly rates—regularly There has been much discussion today and in the past use compromise agreements. We want to ensure that all weeks about the proposal contained in the report prepared businesses, including small and medium-sizes businesses, by Adrian Beecroft on compensated no-fault dismissal. can use those agreements. If there is no agreement, the I have made my views on the proposal very clear. This is employee’s rights are still protected. They have to work not a measure in the Bill and therefore is not a matter together to ensure that the employment relationship is on which I propose to dwell in the limited time available maintained. to me. Suffice it to say that the call for evidence has My hon. Friend the Member for Northampton South closed and my officials will be considering the responses (Mr Binley) raised concerns about SMEs. We will shortly received. I am clear, however, that we need to take action consult on a suite of proposals to help small businesses to improve the way in which businesses, especially small use settlement agreements to ensure that they have the businesses, manage and end their relationships with confidence to deal with employment problems. I hope employees. By addressing the fears that small businesses that that reassures him. 133 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 134 Bill Bill Reference was made to unfair dismissal compensatory Benn, rh Hilary Goggins, rh Paul award proposals. There has been debate about the power Benton, Mr Joe Goodman, Helen to amend the limit on unfair dismissal compensatory Berger, Luciana Green, Kate awards. The Labour party wants to make mischief on Betts, Mr Clive Greenwood, Lilian the issue, but I should point out that it is a matter of Blenkinsop, Tom Griffith, Nia common ground that there should be a limit on the Blomfield, Paul Gwynne, Andrew Blunkett, rh Mr David Hain, rh Mr Peter amount of the compensatory award. Having proposed Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Hamilton, Mr David removing the limit back in 1998, the then Government Brennan, Kevin Hamilton, Fabian backtracked and elected instead to have a large, one-off Brown, Lyn Hanson, rh Mr David increase from £12,000 to £50,000 and introduce a formula Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Harman, rh Ms Harriet for future increases. As a result, the limit has increased Brown, Mr Russell Harris, Mr Tom rapidly in recent years and now stands at £72,300. That Bryant, Chris Havard, Mr Dai is greatly in excess of the median award for unfair Buck, Ms Karen Healey, rh John dismissal, which is less than £5,000. Realism about Burden, Richard Hepburn, Mr Stephen potential awards is clearly important for encouraging Burnham, rh Andy Heyes, David the settlement of employment disputes and the greater Byrne, rh Mr Liam Hillier, Meg use of settlement agreements. Campbell, Mr Alan Hilling, Julie Campbell, Mr Ronnie Hodge, rh Margaret I want to say a few words about competition. The Caton, Martin Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Government believe that creating a new competition Chapman, Mrs Jenny Hoey, Kate and markets authority will ensure that resources and Clark, Katy Howarth, rh Mr George specialised competition expertise can be deployed to Clarke, rh Mr Tom Hunt, Tristram best effect while reducing the burdens on business, and I Clwyd, rh Ann Irranca-Davies, Huw was pleased that the shadow Secretary of State supported Coaker, Vernon Jackson, Glenda that principle. This matters for the taxpayer and for Coffey, Ann Jamieson, Cathy businesses and consumers at the wrong end of anti- Cooper, Rosie Jarvis, Dan competitive practices. The Government recognise that a Cooper, rh Yvette Johnson, rh Alan great strength of the current regime is the two-phase Corbyn, Jeremy Johnson, Diana approach to markets and merger cases and wish to Crausby, Mr David Jones, Graham preserve it. We will therefore retain the separation of Creasy, Stella Jones, Helen Cruddas, Jon Jones, Mr Kevan decision making; the board will have responsibility for Cryer, John Jones, Susan Elan the initial investigation and phase-1 decisions, and groups Cunningham, Alex Joyce, Eric of independent panellists will continue to make final Cunningham, Mr Jim Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald decisions at phase 2. When making those decisions, the Cunningham, Tony Keeley, Barbara groups will be required to act independently of the Curran, Margaret Kendall, Liz board, which will ensure that decisions are robust by Danczuk, Simon Lammy, rh Mr David giving cases a second look and bringing in the use of Darling, rh Mr Alistair Lavery, Ian experienced business people and other outside experts. David, Mr Wayne Leslie, Chris There will also be scrutiny by the Competition Appeal Davidson, Mr Ian Lewis, Mr Ivan Tribunal. Davies, Geraint Lloyd, Tony De Piero, Gloria Love, Mr Andrew The Bill is pro-growth and pro-business. We have Denham, rh Mr John Lucas, Caroline listened to small and large businesses across the country, Dobbin, Jim Lucas, Ian the businesses on which this country’s recovery depends. Dobson, rh Frank Mactaggart, Fiona They have told us that fair and speedy ways of resolving Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Mahmood, Shabana disputes matter to them. We have listened and are Doran, Mr Frank Malhotra, Seema delivering the measures that matter to them. A strong Dowd, Jim Mann, John and effective competition regime matters for business. Doyle, Gemma Marsden, Mr Gordon Reducing the excessive burden of regulation, much of Dromey, Jack McCann, Mr Michael which was introduced under the previous Administration, Dugher, Michael McClymont, Gregg and the cost of compliance with regulation matters for Durkan, Mark McCrea, Dr William business. The Bill will help businesses to grow and Eagle, Ms Angela McDonagh, Siobhain succeed. It will boost consumer and business confidence Eagle, Maria McDonnell, John and help the private sector create jobs. It will promote Edwards, Jonathan McFadden, rh Mr Pat Efford, Clive McGovern, Jim fairness and support our green economy. I commend it Ellman, Mrs Louise McGuire, rh Mrs Anne to the House. Engel, Natascha McKechin, Ann Question put, That the amendment be made. Esterson, Bill McKenzie, Mr Iain Evans, Chris The House divided: Ayes 216, Noes 301. McKinnell, Catherine Farrelly, Paul Meacher, rh Mr Michael Division No. 13] [9.59 pm Field, rh Mr Frank Meale, Sir Alan Fitzpatrick, Jim Mearns, Ian AYES Flello, Robert Michael, rh Alun Abbott, Ms Diane Bailey, Mr Adrian Flint, rh Caroline Miliband, rh David Abrahams, Debbie Bain, Mr William Flynn, Paul Mitchell, Austin Alexander, Heidi Balls, rh Ed Francis, Dr Hywel Moon, Mrs Madeleine Ali, Rushanara Banks, Gordon Gilmore, Sheila Morden, Jessica Allen, Mr Graham Barron, rh Mr Kevin Glass, Pat Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Anderson, Mr David Beckett, rh Margaret Glindon, Mrs Mary Morris, Grahame M. Austin, Ian Bell, Sir Stuart Godsiff, Mr Roger (Easington) 135 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 136 Bill Bill Mudie, Mr George Skinner, Mr Dennis Farron, Tim Kawczynski, Daniel Murphy, rh Paul Slaughter, Mr Andy Featherstone, Lynne Kelly, Chris Murray, Ian Smith, rh Mr Andrew Field, Mark Kirby, Simon Nandy, Lisa Smith, Nick Foster, rh Mr Don Knight, rh Mr Greg Nash, Pamela Smith, Owen Fox,rhDrLiam Kwarteng, Kwasi O’Donnell, Fiona Spellar, rh Mr John Francois, rh Mr Mark Lamb, Norman Onwurah, Chi Straw, rh Mr Jack Freeman, George Lancaster, Mark Osborne, Sandra Stringer, Graham Freer, Mike Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Owen, Albert Stuart, Ms Gisela Fullbrook, Lorraine Latham, Pauline Pearce, Teresa Tami, Mark Fuller, Richard Laws, rh Mr David Perkins, Toby Timms, rh Stephen Gale, Sir Roger Leadsom, Andrea Phillipson, Bridget Trickett, Jon Garnier, Mr Edward Lee, Jessica Pound, Stephen Turner, Karl Garnier, Mark Lee, Dr Phillip Qureshi, Yasmin Twigg, Derek Gauke, Mr David Leech, Mr John Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Twigg, Stephen George, Andrew Lefroy, Jeremy Reed, Mr Jamie Umunna, Mr Chuka Gibb, Mr Nick Leigh, Mr Edward Reeves, Rachel Vaz, rh Keith Gilbert, Stephen Lewis, Brandon Reynolds, Emma Walley, Joan Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl Lewis, Dr Julian Reynolds, Jonathan Watts, Mr Dave Glen, John Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Ritchie, Ms Margaret Whitehead, Dr Alan Goldsmith, Zac Lidington, rh Mr David Robertson, John Williamson, Chris Goodwill, Mr Robert Lloyd, Stephen Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Wilson, Phil Graham, Richard Lord, Jonathan Rotheram, Steve Winnick, Mr David Grant, Mrs Helen Loughton, Tim Roy, Mr Frank Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Gray, Mr James Luff, Peter Roy, Lindsay Woodcock, John Grayling, rh Chris Lumley, Karen Ruane, Chris Woodward, rh Mr Shaun Green, Damian Main, Mrs Anne Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Wright, David Greening, rh Justine Maude, rh Mr Francis Seabeck, Alison Wright, Mr Iain Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Maynard, Paul Sheerman, Mr Barry Tellers for the Ayes: Griffiths, Andrew McCartney, Jason Shuker, Gavin Jonathan Ashworth and Gummer, Ben McCartney, Karl Simpson, David Nic Dakin Gyimah, Mr Sam McIntosh, Miss Anne Halfon, Robert McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Hames, Duncan McPartland, Stephen NOES Hammond, rh Mr Philip McVey, Esther Adams, Nigel Burstow, Paul Hammond, Stephen Mensch, Louise Afriyie, Adam Byles, Dan Hancock, Matthew Menzies, Mark Aldous, Peter Cable, rh Vince Hancock, Mr Mike Mercer, Patrick Amess, Mr David Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Hands, Greg Miller, Maria Andrew, Stuart Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Harper, Mr Mark Mills, Nigel Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Carmichael, Neil Harrington, Richard Milton, Anne Bacon, Mr Richard Carswell, Mr Douglas Harris, Rebecca Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Baker, Norman Chope, Mr Christopher Hart, Simon Moore, rh Michael Baker, Steve Clark, rh Greg Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Mordaunt, Penny Baldry, Tony Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Hayes, Mr John Morgan, Nicky Baldwin, Harriett Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Heald, Oliver Morris, Anne Marie Barclay, Stephen Coffey, Dr Thérèse Heath, Mr David Morris, David Barker, Gregory Collins, Damian Heaton-Harris, Chris Morris, James Baron, Mr John Colvile, Oliver Hemming, John Mosley, Stephen Barwell, Gavin Cox, Mr Geoffrey Henderson, Gordon Mowat, David Bebb, Guto Crabb, Stephen Hendry, Charles Mulholland, Greg Beresford, Sir Paul Crockart, Mike Herbert, rh Nick Mundell, rh David Berry, Jake Crouch, Tracey Hinds, Damian Munt, Tessa Bingham, Andrew Davies, Glyn Hoban, Mr Mark Murray, Sheryll Binley, Mr Brian Davies, Philip Hollingbery, George Murrison, Dr Andrew Birtwistle, Gordon Davis, rh Mr David Hollobone, Mr Philip Neill, Robert Blackman, Bob de Bois, Nick Hopkins, Kris Newmark, Mr Brooks Blackwood, Nicola Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Horwood, Martin Nokes, Caroline Boles, Nick Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Howarth, Mr Gerald Norman, Jesse Bone, Mr Peter Dorries, Nadine Howell, John Nuttall, Mr David Bottomley, Sir Peter Doyle-Price, Jackie Hughes, rh Simon O’Brien, Mr Stephen Bradley, Karen Drax, Richard Huhne, rh Chris Offord, Mr Matthew Brake, rh Tom Duddridge, James Hunt, rh Mr Jeremy Ollerenshaw, Eric Bray, Angie Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Huppert, Dr Julian Opperman, Guy Brazier, Mr Julian Ellis, Michael Jackson, Mr Stewart Ottaway, Richard Bridgen, Andrew Ellison, Jane James, Margot Paice, rh Mr James Brine, Steve Elphicke, Charlie Javid, Sajid Parish, Neil Bruce, Fiona Eustice, George Jenkin, Mr Bernard Patel, Priti Bruce, rh Malcolm Evans, Graham Johnson, Gareth Pawsey, Mark Buckland, Mr Robert Evans, Jonathan Johnson, Joseph Penning, Mike Burley, Mr Aidan Evennett, Mr David Jones, Andrew Penrose, John Burns, rh Mr Simon Fabricant, Michael Jones, Mr David Phillips, Stephen Burrowes, Mr David Fallon, Michael Jones, Mr Marcus Pickles, rh Mr Eric 137 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 138 Bill Bill Pincher, Christopher Stunell, Andrew 5. Proceedings on Third Reading shall (so far as not previously Poulter, Dr Daniel Sturdy, Julian concluded) be brought to a conclusion at the moment of Prisk, Mr Mark Swales, Ian interruption on that day. Pugh, John Swinson, Jo 6. Standing Order No. 83B (Programming committees) shall Raab, Mr Dominic Swire, rh Mr Hugo not apply to proceedings on Consideration and Third Reading. Randall, rh Mr John Syms, Mr Robert Other proceedings Reckless, Mark Teather, Sarah Redwood, rh Mr John Thurso, John 7. Any other proceedings on the Bill (including any proceedings on consideration of Lords Amendments or on any Rees-Mogg, Jacob Timpson, Mr Edward further messages from the Lords) may be programmed.— Reevell, Simon Truss, Elizabeth (Angela Watkinson.) Reid, Mr Alan Turner, Mr Andrew Rifkind, rh Sir Malcolm Tyrie, Mr Andrew The House divided: Ayes 301, Noes 213. Robertson, Hugh Uppal, Paul Division No. 14] [10.16 pm Robertson, Mr Laurence Vara, Mr Shailesh Rogerson, Dan Vickers, Martin AYES Rosindell, Andrew Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Rudd, Amber Walker, Mr Charles Adams, Nigel Crouch, Tracey Ruffley, Mr David Walker, Mr Robin Afriyie, Adam Davies, Glyn Russell, Sir Bob Ward, Mr David Aldous, Peter Davies, Philip Rutley, David Watkinson, Angela Amess, Mr David Davis, rh Mr David Sanders, Mr Adrian Weatherley, Mike Andrew, Stuart de Bois, Nick Sandys, Laura Webb, Steve Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Scott, Mr Lee Wharton, James Bacon, Mr Richard Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Selous, Andrew Wheeler, Heather Baker, Norman Dorries, Nadine Shapps, rh Grant White, Chris Baker, Steve Doyle-Price, Jackie Sharma, Alok Whittaker, Craig Baldry, Tony Drax, Richard Shelbrooke, Alec Whittingdale, Mr John Baldwin, Harriett Duddridge, James Simmonds, Mark Wiggin, Bill Barclay, Stephen Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Skidmore, Chris Willetts, rh Mr David Barker, Gregory Dunne, Mr Philip Smith, Miss Chloe Williamson, Gavin Baron, Mr John Ellis, Michael Smith, Julian Willott, Jenny Barwell, Gavin Ellison, Jane Soames, rh Nicholas Wilson, Mr Rob Bebb, Guto Elphicke, Charlie Beresford, Sir Paul Eustice, George Soubry, Anna Wollaston, Dr Sarah Berry, Jake Evans, Graham Spencer, Mr Mark Wright, Jeremy Bingham, Andrew Evans, Jonathan Stanley, rh Sir John Wright, Simon Binley, Mr Brian Evennett, Mr David Stephenson, Andrew Yeo, Mr Tim Stevenson, John Birtwistle, Gordon Fabricant, Michael Young, rh Sir George Stewart, Iain Blackman, Bob Fallon, Michael Zahawi, Nadhim Stewart, Rory Blackwood, Nicola Farron, Tim Streeter, Mr Gary Tellers for the Noes: Boles, Nick Featherstone, Lynne Stride, Mel Mr Philip Dunne and Bone, Mr Peter Field, Mark Stuart, Mr Graham Mark Hunter Bottomley, Sir Peter Foster, rh Mr Don Bradley, Karen Fox,rhDrLiam Francois, rh Mr Mark Brake, rh Tom Question accordingly negatived. Freeman, George Bray, Angie Question put forthwith (Standing Order No. 62(2)), Freer, Mike Brazier, Mr Julian That the Bill be now read a Second time. Fullbrook, Lorraine Bridgen, Andrew Question agreed to. Fuller, Richard Brine, Steve Gale, Sir Roger Bill accordingly read a Second time. Bruce, Fiona Garnier, Mr Edward Bruce, rh Malcolm Garnier, Mark Buckland, Mr Robert ENTERPRISE AND REGULATORY REFORM Gauke, Mr David Burley, Mr Aidan George, Andrew BILL (PROGRAMME) Burns, rh Mr Simon Gibb, Mr Nick Motion made, and Question put forthwith, (Standing Burrowes, Mr David Gilbert, Stephen Order No. 83A(7)), Burstow, Paul Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl That the following provisions shall apply to the Enterprise and Byles, Dan Glen, John Regulatory Reform Bill: Cable, rh Vince Goldsmith, Zac Committal Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Goodwill, Mr Robert Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Graham, Richard 1. The Bill shall be committed to a Public Bill Committee. Carmichael, Neil Grant, Mrs Helen Proceedings in Public Bill Committee Carswell, Mr Douglas Gray, Mr James 2. Proceedings in the Public Bill Committee shall (so far as not Chope, Mr Christopher Grayling, rh Chris previously concluded) be brought to a conclusion on Tuesday Clark, rh Greg Green, Damian 17 July 2012. Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Greening, rh Justine 3. The Public Bill Committee shall have leave to sit twice on Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Grieve, rh Mr Dominic the first day on which it meets. Coffey, Dr Thérèse Griffiths, Andrew Consideration and Third Reading Collins, Damian Gummer, Ben 4. Proceedings on Consideration shall (so far as not previously Colvile, Oliver Gyimah, Mr Sam concluded) be brought to a conclusion one hour before the Cox, Mr Geoffrey Halfon, Robert moment of interruption on the day on which those proceedings Crabb, Stephen Hames, Duncan are commenced. Crockart, Mike Hammond, rh Mr Philip 139 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 140 Bill Bill Hammond, Stephen McCartney, Karl Skidmore, Chris Vickers, Martin Hancock, Matthew McCrea, Dr William Smith, Miss Chloe Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Hancock, Mr Mike McIntosh, Miss Anne Smith, Julian Walker, Mr Charles Harper, Mr Mark McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Soames, rh Nicholas Walker, Mr Robin Harrington, Richard McPartland, Stephen Soubry, Anna Ward, Mr David Harris, Rebecca McVey, Esther Spencer, Mr Mark Watkinson, Angela Hart, Simon Mensch, Louise Stephenson, Andrew Weatherley, Mike Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Menzies, Mark Stevenson, John Webb, Steve Mercer, Patrick Stewart, Iain Wharton, James Hayes, Mr John Miller, Maria Stewart, Rory Wheeler, Heather Heald, Oliver Mills, Nigel Streeter, Mr Gary White, Chris Heath, Mr David Milton, Anne Stride, Mel Whittaker, Craig Heaton-Harris, Chris Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Stuart, Mr Graham Whittingdale, Mr John Hemming, John Moore, rh Michael Stunell, Andrew Wiggin, Bill Henderson, Gordon Mordaunt, Penny Sturdy, Julian Willetts, rh Mr David Hendry, Charles Morgan, Nicky Swales, Ian Williamson, Gavin Herbert, rh Nick Morris, Anne Marie Swinson, Jo Willott, Jenny Hinds, Damian Morris, David Swire, rh Mr Hugo Wilson, Mr Rob Hoban, Mr Mark Morris, James Syms, Mr Robert Wollaston, Dr Sarah Hollingbery, George Mosley, Stephen Teather, Sarah Wright, Jeremy Hollobone, Mr Philip Mowat, David Thurso, John Wright, Simon Hopkins, Kris Mulholland, Greg Timpson, Mr Edward Yeo, Mr Tim Horwood, Martin Mundell, rh David Truss, Elizabeth Young, rh Sir George Howarth, Mr Gerald Munt, Tessa Turner, Mr Andrew Zahawi, Nadhim Howell, John Murray, Sheryll Tyrie, Mr Andrew Tellers for the Ayes: Murrison, Dr Andrew Hughes, rh Simon Uppal, Paul Greg Hands and Newmark, Mr Brooks Huhne, rh Chris Vara, Mr Shailesh Mark Hunter Nokes, Caroline Hunt, rh Mr Jeremy Norman, Jesse Huppert, Dr Julian Nuttall, Mr David NOES Jackson, Mr Stewart O’Brien, Mr Stephen Abbott, Ms Diane Coffey, Ann James, Margot Offord, Mr Matthew Abrahams, Debbie Cooper, Rosie Javid, Sajid Ollerenshaw, Eric Alexander, Heidi Cooper, rh Yvette Jenkin, Mr Bernard Opperman, Guy Ali, Rushanara Corbyn, Jeremy Johnson, Gareth Ottaway, Richard Allen, Mr Graham Crausby, Mr David Johnson, Joseph Paice, rh Mr James Anderson, Mr David Creasy, Stella Parish, Neil Jones, Andrew Austin, Ian Cruddas, Jon Patel, Priti Cryer, John Jones, Mr David Bailey, Mr Adrian Pawsey, Mark Cunningham, Alex Jones, Mr Marcus Bain, Mr William Penning, Mike Cunningham, Mr Jim Kawczynski, Daniel Penrose, John Balls, rh Ed Cunningham, Tony Kelly, Chris Phillips, Stephen Banks, Gordon Curran, Margaret Kirby, Simon Pickles, rh Mr Eric Barron, rh Mr Kevin Danczuk, Simon Knight, rh Mr Greg Pincher, Christopher Beckett, rh Margaret Darling, rh Mr Alistair Kwarteng, Kwasi Poulter, Dr Daniel Bell, Sir Stuart David, Mr Wayne Lamb, Norman Prisk, Mr Mark Benn, rh Hilary Davidson, Mr Ian Lancaster, Mark Pugh, John Benton, Mr Joe Davies, Geraint Raab, Mr Dominic Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Berger, Luciana De Piero, Gloria Randall, rh Mr John Denham, rh Mr John Latham, Pauline Betts, Mr Clive Reckless, Mark Dobbin, Jim Laws, rh Mr David Blenkinsop, Tom Redwood, rh Mr John Dobson, rh Frank Leadsom, Andrea Rees-Mogg, Jacob Blomfield, Paul Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Lee, Jessica Reevell, Simon Blunkett, rh Mr David Doran, Mr Frank Lee, Dr Phillip Reid, Mr Alan Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Dowd, Jim Leech, Mr John Rifkind, rh Sir Malcolm Brennan, Kevin Doyle, Gemma Lefroy, Jeremy Robertson, Hugh Brown, Lyn Dromey, Jack Lewis, Brandon Robertson, Mr Laurence Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Dugher, Michael Lewis, Dr Julian Rogerson, Dan Brown, Mr Russell Durkan, Mark Rosindell, Andrew Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Bryant, Chris Eagle, Ms Angela Rudd, Amber Eagle, Maria Lidington, rh Mr David Buck, Ms Karen Ruffley, Mr David Edwards, Jonathan Lilley, rh Mr Peter Burden, Richard Russell, Sir Bob Efford, Clive Lloyd, Stephen Burnham, rh Andy Rutley, David Ellman, Mrs Louise Lord, Jonathan Byrne, rh Mr Liam Sanders, Mr Adrian Engel, Natascha Loughton, Tim Sandys, Laura Campbell, Mr Alan Esterson, Bill Luff, Peter Scott, Mr Lee Campbell, Mr Ronnie Evans, Chris Lumley, Karen Selous, Andrew Caton, Martin Farrelly, Paul Macleod, Mary Shapps, rh Grant Chapman, Mrs Jenny Field, rh Mr Frank Main, Mrs Anne Sharma, Alok Clark, Katy Fitzpatrick, Jim Maude, rh Mr Francis Shelbrooke, Alec Clarke, rh Mr Tom Flello, Robert Maynard, Paul Simmonds, Mark Clwyd, rh Ann Flint, rh Caroline McCartney, Jason Simpson, David Coaker, Vernon Flynn, Paul 141 Enterprise and Regulatory Reform 11 JUNE 2012 142 Bill Francis, Dr Hywel Moon, Mrs Madeleine ENTERPRISE AND REGULATORY REFORM Gilmore, Sheila Morden, Jessica BILL (MONEY) Glass, Pat Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Glindon, Mrs Mary Morris, Grahame M. Queen’s recommendation signified. Godsiff, Mr Roger (Easington) Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing Goggins, rh Paul Mudie, Mr George Order No. 52(1)(a)), Goodman, Helen Murphy, rh Paul That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Enterprise Green, Kate Murray, Ian and Regulatory Reform Bill, it is expedient to authorise— Greenwood, Lilian Nandy, Lisa (1) the payment out of money provided by Parliament of any Griffith, Nia Nash, Pamela expenditure incurred under or by virtue of the Act by the Secretary Gwynne, Andrew O’Donnell, Fiona of State or the Competition and Markets Authority; Hain, rh Mr Peter Onwurah, Chi (2) the payment out of the National Loans Fund of any sums Hamilton, Mr David Osborne, Sandra payable out of the Fund by virtue of the Act; Hamilton, Fabian Owen, Albert Hanson, rh Mr David Pearce, Teresa (3) any increase attributable to the Act in the sums payable Harman, rh Ms Harriet Perkins, Toby under any other Act out of money provided by Parliament.—(Angela Harris, Mr Tom Phillipson, Bridget Watkinson.) Havard, Mr Dai Pound, Stephen Healey, rh John Qureshi, Yasmin Hepburn, Mr Stephen Raynsford, rh Mr Nick ENTERPRISE AND REGULATORY REFORM Heyes, David Reed, Mr Jamie BILL (WAYS AND MEANS) Hillier, Meg Reeves, Rachel Queen’s recommendation signified. Hilling, Julie Reynolds, Emma Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing Hodge, rh Margaret Reynolds, Jonathan Order No. 52(1)(a)), Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Ritchie, Ms Margaret Hoey, Kate Robertson, John That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Enterprise Howarth, rh Mr George Robinson, Mr Geoffrey and Regulatory Reform Bill, it is expedient to authorise the Hunt, Tristram Rotheram, Steve payment of sums into the Consolidated Fund. —(Angela Watkinson.) Irranca-Davies, Huw Roy, Mr Frank Jackson, Glenda Roy, Lindsay Business without Debate Jamieson, Cathy Ruane, Chris Jarvis, Dan Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Johnson, rh Alan Seabeck, Alison DELEGATED LEGISLATION Johnson, Diana Sheerman, Mr Barry Jones, Graham Shuker, Gavin Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing Jones, Helen Skinner, Mr Dennis Order No. 118(6)), Jones, Mr Kevan Slaughter, Mr Andy Jones, Susan Elan Smith, rh Mr Andrew PENSIONS Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Smith, Nick That the draft Automatic Enrolment (Earnings Trigger and Keeley, Barbara Smith, Owen Qualifying Earnings Band) Order 2012, which was laid before this Kendall, Liz Spellar, rh Mr John House on 26 March 2012, in the previous Session of Parliament, Lammy, rh Mr David Straw, rh Mr Jack be approved.—(Angela Watkinson.) Lavery, Ian Stringer, Graham Question agreed to. Leslie, Chris Stuart, Ms Gisela Lewis, Mr Ivan Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing Tami, Mark Lloyd, Tony Order No. 118(6)), Timms, rh Stephen Love, Mr Andrew Trickett, Jon Lucas, Caroline NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE Lucas, Ian Turner, Karl That the draft Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Mactaggart, Fiona Twigg, Derek Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2012, which were laid before Mahmood, Shabana Twigg, Stephen Umunna, Mr Chuka this House on 27 March 2012, in the previous Session of Parliament, Malhotra, Seema be approved.—(Angela Watkinson.) Mann, John Vaz, rh Keith Marsden, Mr Gordon Walley, Joan Question agreed to. McCann, Mr Michael Watts, Mr Dave Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing McClymont, Gregg Whiteford, Dr Eilidh Order No. 118(6)), McDonagh, Siobhain Whitehead, Dr Alan McDonnell, John Williamson, Chris LONDON GOVERNMENT McFadden, rh Mr Pat Wilson, Phil McGovern, Jim Winnick, Mr David That the draft Greater London Authority Act 1999 (Amendment) Order 2012, which was laid before this House on 19 March 2012, McGuire, rh Mrs Anne Winterton, rh Ms Rosie McKechin, Ann in the previous Session of Parliament, be approved.—(Angela Woodcock, John Watkinson.) McKenzie, Mr Iain Woodward, rh Mr Shaun McKinnell, Catherine Wright, David Question agreed to. Meacher, rh Mr Michael Wright, Mr Iain Meale, Sir Alan Mearns, Ian Tellers for the Noes: BACKBENCH BUSINESS COMMITTEE Michael, rh Alun Nic Dakin and Motion made, Miliband, rh David Jonathan Ashworth That Mr David Amess, Mr David Anderson, Bob Blackman, Jane Ellison, John Hemming, Mr Marcus Jones and Ian Mearns Question accordingly agreed to. be members of the Backbench Business Committee.—(Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.) 143 Business without Debate 11 JUNE 2012 144

Hon. Members: Object. Dementia Services (South-West) Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House Mr Speaker: We are all struck by the speed with which do now adjourn.—(Angela Watkinson.) the hon. Member for Christchurch (Mr Chope) has registered his objection. Mr Speaker: Before I call the right hon. Member for Exeter (Mr Bradshaw), perhaps I could appeal to Members EDUCATION who are leaving the Chamber—unaccountably not wishing to remain to hear the right hon. Gentleman’s speech—to Ordered, do so quickly and quietly, affording the same courtesy That Tessa Munt be discharged from the Education Committee to the right hon. Gentleman that they would want to be and Mr David Ward be added.—(Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, on extended to them. behalf of the Committee of Selection.) 10.33 pm SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Mr Ben Bradshaw (Exeter) (Lab): Thank you very much, Ordered, Mr Speaker—and thank you very much for granting a That Jonathan Reynolds be discharged from the Science and debate on a subject that is of great concern to my Technology Committee and Jim Dowd be added..—(Geoffrey constituents in Exeter, to people throughout the south-west, Clifton-Brown, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.) and, indeed, to people throughout the country. My own mother suffered from dementia, and died very young when I was just 18. That was in the days when Alzheimer’s and other dementias were only just beginning to be recognised. Since then we have made great strides in terms of our knowledge and understanding, and the treatment that is available to sufferers and their families. I pay particular tribute to the Alzheimer’s Society for its campaigning work and the support that it provides for people. There are currently 800,000 people with dementia in the United Kingdom, and one in three of us will have it by the end of our lives, so this is an issue that touches, or will touch, virtually every household and every family in our country. Although progress has been made, there are still big gaps and unacceptable variations in levels of service and support, and I shall focus on three issues that cause particular concern: the rates of diagnosis; the availability of drugs for sufferers; and the overall resilience of the care system, on which many dementia sufferers and their families depend. Everybody—including, I am pleased to say, the Government—accepts that early diagnosis is absolutely vital in ensuring that people with dementia and their families receive the information, treatment and support they need. At present, however, fewer than half—43%—of dementia sufferers have a formal diagnosis, and in the south-west that rate is even lower; in fact, my region has the lowest diagnosis rate of anywhere in England at just 35.4%, with my own county, Devon, having barely a third of sufferers diagnosed and Dorset having the lowest rate in the country at just 27%. As the south-west of England has a higher than average proportion of elderly people, and therefore more dementia sufferers, that is extremely worrying. Indeed, according to the Minister’s own figures, in Devon alone there are almost 9,000 people with dementia who have not been diagnosed. In contrast, average diagnosis rates across Northern Ireland are above 60%, and in Belfast the rate is almost 70%. What is the Minister’s explanation for this huge variation in diagnosis rates across the country, and what are his Government doing to address that? Many fear that the Government’s upheaval of the NHS might make this situation even worse, not better. Putting GPs in the driving seat means that the level of awareness and understanding of the problem among GPs will be more important than ever. GP training is therefore vital, and I welcome the progress that is being made, such as in Devon, where an education programme 145 Dementia Services (South-West)11 JUNE 2012 Dementia Services (South-West) 146 for GPs has reached 374 practices across our county, and saw that it said “Do not resuscitate”. The family and there are already signs of increased diagnosis rates. had not been asked or consulted in any way. Does my But education alone is not enough. GPs need to have right hon. Friend share my concern that, although there access to help and support, but the key to improving is some fantastic work going on in the field of dementia, diagnosis rates in the south-west will be to ensure that crass errors continue to be made that cause families GPs can refer patients to memory services for diagnosis. deep unhappiness? It is clearly not good for the dementia I have heard reports of people waiting over a year for an sufferers if the whole family is destabilised because of appointment at a memory clinic, however. poor decision making. As the Minister will be aware, the Alzheimer’s Society recently wrote to all MPs asking us to write to our local Mr Bradshaw: I agree absolutely. As I said, and as I primary care trusts in order to establish waiting times at hope the Minister will endorse, training and awareness memory services in their areas. I commend this initiative. of dementia are vital not only in primary care settings Will the Minister say whether the Department of Health but in secondary care settings, as in the case my hon. collects data on waiting times at memory services in the Friend raises. Some people who may seem to be extremely south-west—as well as in other regions? If not, will he ill with dementia and who are in the situation she arrange for NHS South of England to provide Members describes may in fact be physically perfectly fit and able with this information? to carry on living for some time. I hope that her local The Royal College of Psychiatrists has established hospital will take up the case and provide a satisfactory the memory services national accreditation programme, response. to ensure that services at memory clinics meet national As I was saying, there is a strong feeling on both sides standards. Does the Minister agree that all memory of the House that we need a sustainable and fair solution services should seek such national accreditation and to the challenge of long-term care. That challenge that that should be a priority for local NHS managers? particularly, but not solely, affects families with members As the Minister will also be aware, next month the who suffer from dementia because of the enormous all-party group on dementia will report on its inquiry costs imposed on them by having to pay for long-term into improving diagnosis rates. I understand that he has care. I do not think it an exaggeration to say that there been invited to the launch of the report, and I hope he was great disappointment when the Queen’s Speech can confirm tonight that he will be able to attend. again failed to include a Bill to implement the Dilnot proposals. As far as it goes, the Government’s commitment The second issue I want to highlight is the variation to a draft Bill was welcome, but it would be helpful if in the availability of medicines for dementia sufferers. the Minister told us when that draft is likely to be These medicines can make an enormous difference both published and guaranteed that a Bill will be passed in to the progression of the illness and the quality of life this Parliament. May I boldly suggest that that would enjoyed by the sufferer and their carers. The Minister be a real legacy and worth working for? will be aware of the massive—some reports have suggested as much as 50-fold—variation in the level of drug Julie Hilling (Bolton West) (Lab): Does my right hon. prescribing among PCTs in England. Again, the south-west Friend agree that part of the reason people are not does very poorly. We are not the lowest region in diagnosed is the great fear of what dementia means? In England in respect of prescribing, but we rank as the fact, if we provided good care in their own homes, they second lowest region after the west midlands. It is very could stay there longer before needing to go into residential worrying that our region, with its high proportion of care. We should look not only at the cost of residential elderly people and therefore of dementia sufferers, has care, but at the cost of home care and reach a settlement the second lowest level of availability of medicines that on that, too. could help them. Will the Minister explain the reasons for that, what the Government are doing about it, and how he can guarantee that this problem will not get Mr Bradshaw: My hon. Friend is absolutely right and worse under the Government’s reorganisation of the makes an important point. health service? I would be grateful if the Minister also gave a The third and final concern I wish to raise tonight is commitment that the Bill, when it comes to the House, the financial hardship faced by dementia sufferers and will address the postcode lottery in the availability and their families because of the cost of long-term care. We quality of services. Tower Hamlets in London, for example, know that, in some cases, that can run into hundreds of spends five times as much on dementia services as thousands of pounds; it can lead to families losing their Cornwall in the south-west, which is the lowest spending homes or their inheritance because of the lottery of authority in the country. That simply cannot be right. getting dementia. Many people rightly feel that that is The urgency of meeting the challenge of long-term deeply unfair. In my view, the long-awaited report by care is all the greater as figures uncovered by my hon. Andrew Dilnot on the future of long-term care provides Friend the Member for Leicester West (Liz Kendall) a sustainable and equitable solution to that deep unfairness show that pressure on local authority budgets is already that some families face and to the general challenge of leading councils to increase their charges and tighten providing long-term care. their eligibility criteria, so that many people are losing the assistance they previously received. The situation Alison Seabeck (Plymouth, Moor View) (Lab): This is getting worse and will continue to do so until the is an incredibly important debate and my right hon. Government grasp the nettle of long-term care and Friend has touched on a number of issues that affect my implement the Dilnot report. constituents. In a recent case, the mother of Lee Finn At any one time, one in four hospital beds is taken up was in Derriford hospital with dementia; the family by people with dementia. Delayed discharges from hospital came in and read her chart—they had power of attorney— and unnecessary admissions to hospital cost every hospital 147 Dementia Services (South-West)11 JUNE 2012 Dementia Services (South-West) 148

[Mr Bradshaw] people with dementia; and to double the research funding available in the area of neurosciences and dementia in the south-west hundreds of thousands of pounds a by 2015. year. As my hon. Friend the Member for Bolton West The dementia challenge builds on the previous (Julie Hilling) has just said, all the evidence shows that Government’s work on the national dementia strategy. early intervention with community services is cost-effective, We kept and built on that strategy, rather than losing it keeps people out of hospital, it is what people with any of the momentum that it put in place. I pay tribute dementia and their families want, and, in particular, it is to the Alzheimer’s Society for the work it does, and we what the people who have the main responsibility for are working closely with it. We have brought together caring for those sufferers want. three champion groups that are taking forward the However, the tightening of the eligibility criteria and work on raising the need to improve diagnosis and the the cutting of local services are having the opposite treatment and care of people so diagnosed. We are also effect: they are increasing the costs for the NHS. I do focusing on issues associated with how we raise awareness, not know whether the Minister has any figures with both within the social care and health care work forces him. If he does not, perhaps he could write to me, as I and in wider public services. Finally, we are working would be interested to know whether he has made an with the research community to improve capacity assessment of the impact on the NHS in the south-west significantly and make sure that we have more good of the tightening of eligibility criteria by local authorities quality bids for funding for dementia research in this in the area for people with dementia. country. By 2021, more than a million people will be living On the recognition of dementia, we need to ensure with dementia in the UK, and this year dementia is set that the challenge is not just for the national health to cost us £23 billion. In the next 10 years, the number service or social services departments, but for our whole of people in Devon with dementia is set to increase by a society. Work is being led by the Alzheimer’s Society third. It has been said before, but I will say it again: we and one of its key champions and ambassadors, Angela face a dementia time bomb. Addressing it will require Rippon, on how we create dementia-friendly cities, leadership and more public investment in the short towns and villages. The county of Devon is taking a term, but a successful dementia strategy will be much lead working with schools so that young people better cheaper and equitable in the long run, and it will also understand dementia and get involved in services supporting reduce the strain on and suffering of patients and their people with dementia in the community. families. Surely it cannot be too much to expect that The Government have laid the foundations for dementia someone with dementia can receive a decent level of research, investing heavily in biomedical research centres care wherever they live in the country and that their and seeding the necessary interest among the research families should no longer to be subjected to the ruinous community through themed calls. Something in the costs of long-term care simply because they happened region of £17 million of new money is now going into to have a relative who suffered from this illness. research. The right hon. Gentleman is right on diagnosis: there 10.46 pm is still inexplicable and unacceptable variation within The Minister of State, Department of Health (Paul his own region, let alone across the whole of England. Burstow): I congratulate the right hon. Member for In 2011, 30,000 people had been diagnosed and were Exeter (Mr Bradshaw) on securing this debate. He is living with dementia in the south-west, which is among absolutely right to highlight the importance of the issue the lowest rates in England. However, we know from of dementia. It is, without doubt, one of the biggest the figures that the movement is in the right direction. It health and personal issues affecting our society today, is not as fast as he would like, nor as fast as I want it to and it will touch the lives of many families in this be in future, but in 2010, the diagnosis rate was 35.4%; country. He rightly rehearses the statistics, and dementia by 2011, it had risen to 37.3%. is a priority for this Government. We know that in The Government are ensuring through our dementia England there are 670,000 people living with dementia, challenge that general practitioners and other health that the figure is set to double over the next 30 years and professionals are referring more people for assessment. that in England the cost of dementia to society as a We are making people aware of the availability of whole is about £19 billion. However, the true costs of memory services and targeting hospitals to ensure that dementia are incalculable. I am talking about the cost in they receive extra resources to undertake dementia risk terms of the impact on people’s lives, the lost opportunities assessments of people over the age of 75. There will be and the consequences of taking on a caring responsibility additional resources to support that activity. We are within the family, and the costs and consequences for confident that it will lead to a significant increase in the the individual. As has been said in this debate, we know numbers of people being both diagnosed and referred that cancer has been replaced by dementia as the disease for diagnosis. that people in their 50s now fear the most, and the right The right hon. Gentleman referred to the Royal College hon. Gentleman has highlighted a number of reasons of Psychiatrists accreditation programme. I endorse for that. what he said. It is important that more memory services That is why, on 26 March, the Prime Minister, on seek that accreditation, and many in his region are doing behalf of this coalition Government, set out this just that. Government’s dementia challenge: to go further and I can tell the right hon. Gentleman that there has faster in implementing the previous Government’s dementia been a further acceleration in progress on diagnosis. strategy; to focus, in particular, on the issue of diagnosis Devon commissioners tell me that, in the past year, rates; to raise awareness and ensure that we prepare our Exeter has been among the strongest performers in society to be adapted and adaptable to the needs of Devon in improving its rate of diagnosis. Indeed, there 149 Dementia Services (South-West)11 JUNE 2012 Dementia Services (South-West) 150 was an 11.6% increase in the number of people receiving Julie Hilling: What are the Minister’s views on the a diagnosis in the county. The local NHS is building funding of dementia groups and carers’ groups? I visited into its commissioning plans for the coming year an my local group a fortnight ago, and it is struggling for improving diagnosis trajectory. I hope that he and other money because of cuts in its local authority grants and hon. Members continue to hold local commissioners to health grants. Will there be money behind the new account for their commissioning decisions on dementia. strategy for carers, and more money to support dementia The right hon. Gentleman referred to Northern Ireland groups in the community? and the reasons for its success. One reason Northern Ireland has been successful is that it has invested heavily Paul Burstow: I say two things in response to that in its community and voluntary sector services, which question. First, the picture is actually quite varied, and has played a part in raising community awareness. I will come on to the investment that is being made in More people have in turn asked whether they need to be the support network of voluntary and community referred to a memory service. That is one reason why organisations in Devon. Secondly, the Government have the Government have sponsored an advertising campaign. provided £400 million, through the NHS, to support We want to raise awareness and get families to talk carers through carers’ breaks and other arrangements. about dementia, and not to put it off or believe that it is We have specifically said that local plans will have to be just a consequence of ageing. signed off by carers’ organisations to ensure that the voice of carers is heard when decisions are made. Alison Seabeck: What the Minister says about Northern The right hon. Gentleman asked me about the costs Ireland and the figures for Devon is interesting. Does he facing families. I understand that concern, which the believe there is a connection between dementia diagnosis House has been debating for at least the past 15 years, and support and the relative stability of a population, and it is important that we reach conclusions. We will such as that of Belfast? Devon has a more transient shortly publish a White Paper and a progress report on population, and people move there to see out their old our deliberations on funding reform. Dilnot produced a age, perhaps away from their families. How important is clear set of recommendations, which the Government proximity to family and close friends in terms of diagnosis welcomed when they were published last year. and support? It is also important to stress that funding reform, Paul Burstow: That is part of the Government’s approach important though it is, is only one of a number of issues to raising awareness. We recognise that getting families to consider in improving social care in England. Others to have conversations when they see the first signs of include variability of quality, a lack of focus on prevention memory loss, or other behaviours that might indicate and early intervention, services that do not join up well dementia, is an essential part of getting people to have a for families and do not always integrate well with the conversation with their GP about referral to a memory NHS, and a lack of personalisation. We expect to service. Whether that is to do with more stable communities address all those issues in the White Paper that we will is an interesting question to consider further. We are publish shortly. working with the research community because we want When it comes to legislation, we will publish a draft to encourage more applications for social research as Bill before the summer recess, which will set out the well as research into the underlying causes of the disease. details of a comprehensive reform of social care. We The right hon. Member for Exeter asked about waiting will address the fact that for 60 years, social care legislation times. Although there have not historically been routine in this country has evolved in a piecemeal fashion and central collections of waiting times, we will have to as a consequence, in my view, constitutes something of consider the matter closely. The Government are keen a dog’s breakfast. It is hard for people to navigate their to drive improvements, and it is no good somebody way around the system and identify when they are getting a referral if they and their family are then left entitled to support from their local authority and when hanging for too long. He made an important challenge they are not. on that matter. Innovation is important in driving improvements in The right hon. Gentleman rightly talked about support quality for people with dementia. That is one reason for families. In the operating framework for the NHS, why, as part of the dementia challenge, we identified an which we published last December and which covers innovation prize of £1 million for NHS organisations this year, we were absolutely explicit that NHS organisations developing ideas for the transformation of dementia must work with local authorities and carers’ organisations care services. In the south-west and south of England, to get their sign-off for their plans for carers. We stated the NHS has specifically identified and made available a that they must be explicit about the number of carers’ further £10 million for such innovations. breaks they will provide and the budget that they allocate I said that I wanted to mention briefly some of the for carers in their area. We need to ensure that carers get other actions in the south-west. The Royal Devon and vital breaks, rather than having to have a breakdown Exeter NHS Foundation Trust has piloted patient passports before the NHS picks up the pieces. in a very good piloting exercise. It has alighted on a From next year, we will also expect NHS organisations scheme proposed by the Alzheimer’s Society called “This to demonstrate that they are supporting carers of people is me” passports, which are very useful for people with with dementia in line with the guidance that the National out-patient appointments and those who are being Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence issues. Early discharged from hospital. The trust is also running an diagnosis is important because families and the individual “An hour to remember” training programme to raise themselves need to be able to plan, but also because the awareness of staff about both the people who have NICE’s guidance on medication states that people need dementia and the people who are with them—that is, access to drugs at an early stage. I will write to the right their family members and carers—and that is ever so hon. Gentleman about the variations that exist. critical. Every fortnight, there is a day’s training in 151 Dementia Services (South-West)11 JUNE 2012 Dementia Services (South-West) 152

[Paul Burstow] There is much to be done and much that the Government are doing already. There are significant signs of progress dementia care for clinical and ancillary staff. The trust up and down the country. The dementia challenge set has also recently strengthened its mental health liaison out by the Prime Minister in March is real and it is services and is reaching out into its communities to about ensuring that we mobilise not just the national pilot a virtual ward scheme, which is a very important health service and our local authorities but our whole way of avoiding unnecessary admissions into hospital. community to engage with one of the biggest challenges Beyond the hospital, there are networks of support and faced by our society. I would certainly say that the there are 37 memory cafés around the county—I believe evidence points towards a lot of hard work being done that there is one in Exeter itself—and more than by NHS and social care professionals across Devon and 200 volunteers have been trained in dementia awareness the south-west that is beginning to lead to a significant to help support those areas. increase in the diagnosis rates. As a consequence, many more people are getting the treatment and care that The right hon. Gentleman also mentioned the role of they need and that their loved ones deserve. I thank the GPs. I am not certain that we have the same figures, but right hon. Gentleman for securing this debate. my understanding is that 67 of the 107 GP practices Question put and agreed to. across Devon have already undergone GP-led dementia training, which has already led to a significant increase 11.1 pm in the number of referrals going through. House adjourned. 1WS Written Ministerial Statements11 JUNE 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 2WS

who is responsible for employment relations, consumer Written Ministerial and postal affairs, represented the UK on the internal market and industry issues on 30 May. A summary of Statements those discussions follows. The main internal market and industry issues discussed Monday 11 June 2012 on 30 May were: the competitiveness of enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (COSME) programme, mutual recognition of professional qualifications (MRPQ), BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS digital single market and governance of the single market, the public procurement directive, online and alternative Higher Education Update dispute resolution, and the unified patent court. A partial general approach was agreed on the COSME The Minister for Universities and Science (Mr David proposals. Agreement covered everything except the Willetts): On 28 June 2011, the Government published budget figures, which will be inserted when the overall a higher education White Paper, “Students at the Heart 2014-20 EU budget is agreed. The UK argued against of the System”. This was followed on 4 August 2011 by the suggestion to remove provisions in article 19(2), a technical consultation, “Anew fit-for-purpose Regulatory which is a key provision to strengthen governance Framework for the Higher Education Sector”. Over 200 arrangements, and also argued against strengthening responses to the White Paper were received, and over the tourism provisions. 150 responses to the technical consultation. An orientation debate was held on MRPQ. The UK We are today publishing the Government response to intervened to call for more transparency and mutual both consultations. This provides a summary of evaluation of regulated professions to be carried out respondents’ views, and describes the progress Government sooner rather than later, and to note a concern about are making to deliver a strong, financially sustainable any move to six years and 5,500 hours’, training for and high quality HE sector; promote a better student doctors. We were supported by several member states experience; foster social mobility and widen participation; on the transparency point, and the Commission agreed and create a more responsive higher education sector in to carry out a pilot transparency exercise. which funding follows the decisions of learners and successful institutions are freed to thrive. The response Over lunch, there was a discussion on Single Market includes an announcement that we will reduce the Act I and Single Market Act II. The presidency focused “numbers” criterion for university title from 4,000 higher discussions on two questions regarding the challenges education students to 1,000. This will widen access to facing Europe relating to growth, and what actions university title for smaller, high quality providers, and is should be included in the new Single Market Act. The expected principally to benefit many of the long-established UK intervened to state that we needed to create the colleges represented by GuildHE. right conditions for private sector growth by, for example, The White Paper set out proposals for primary legislation putting into place a proportionate and enabling regulatory to create a new regulatory framework. Many responses framework, inspiring confidence in businesses and to the White Paper stressed that we do not yet know the consumers to invest and spend, and by removing the full effect of the new funding arrangements, which will low level barriers and frustrations that take time and come into effect for academic year 2012-13. Hence, it energy to overcome. cannot be clear what form of regulatory framework will On priorities for the forthcoming Single Market Act be appropriate. We will therefore not at this stage be II, we stated the need to fully implement the services introducing changes to primary legislation, but will directive, see a programme of single market governance move our reform agenda forward primarily through enforcement measures, the need for prioritisation of the non-legislative means. digital single market and for an ambitious package of The Government response also announces that we better regulation measures. will arrange for alternative providers, and those FE The Council agreed conclusions on the digital single colleges that do not receive HEFCE funding, to be market and governance of the single market without treated alongside other providers of higher education in discussion. being covered by limits on their numbers of publicly-funded students. We will consult later this year on the process A second orientation debate focused on two aspects for applying these changes. We will also review how of the public procurement dossier—e-procurement and existing quality assurance arrangement affect alternative governance. The presidency opened the debate by outlining providers, including FE colleges offering HE. We strongly its proposal to remove the governance structures from support both existing HE providers and the entry of the proposals (focusing on tasks to be carried out by alternative providers and FE colleges into the HE market, member states instead) and recalling the need to be and these measures will create a more level playing field. ambitious and move to e-procurement by 2016. On e-procurement the UK, along with nine other member states, argued for a more gradual transition, noting that Post-EU Competitiveness Council there are still some technological issues to overcome. Other member states called for a shorter deadline, whereas The Minister for Universities and Science (Mr David others supported the 2016 deadline. The presidency Willetts): The EU Competitiveness Council took place concluded that given the variation in views a 2016 in Brussels on 30 and 31 May 2012. I represented the deadline may appear to be appropriate. On governance, UK on research issues on 31 May, and the Under-Secretary most member states supported the presidency approach, of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, my hon. and we specifically noted our opposition to the reciprocity Friend the Member for North Norfolk (Norman Lamb) instrument. 3WS Written Ministerial Statements11 JUNE 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 4WS

Ministers agreed a general approach on online and programme of Euratom and the decision and regulation alternative dispute resolution (ODR and ADR). The relating to the European Institute of Innovation and presidency had tabled an amendment that excluded Technology (EIT)). Government-funded further and higher education from The Council endorsed conclusions on European the scope of the directive, which was an important UK innovation partnerships (EIPs) restating the importance objective. The UK intervened to support the text, and of engaging member states in the process at an early to explain why the exclusion was needed and why it stage and ensuring that EIP steering boards included would not affect other member states. balanced representation. The final substantive point concerned the unified Under the AOB items, the Cypriot Minister set out patent court, which was scheduled for political agreement. his plans to make further progress on the Horizon 2020 No new proposals or amendments regarding the draft legislative package during their presidency. agreement were put forward in advance of the The Council also received an update from the Competitiveness Council and, while there was a brief Commission on the development of the innovation discussion on the location of the central court with the headline indicator, and a report on the work of the UK setting out the case for London, there was no Strategic Forum for International Science and Technology change in member state positions, nor was there any Co-operation (SFIC) in 2011-12. discussion on substantive policy issues. We expect this During lunch Ministers discussed the results achieved issue to be discussed again at the European Council in by the EIT since its establishment in 2008, and mechanisms June. for improving the links between higher education, research There were three AOB points on internal market and and innovation (the so-called “knowledge triangle”). industry. The first concerned state aid modernisation. I intervened in support of delegations calling for a more The Commission set out its aims for reform of the state realistic budget than proposed by the Commission in aid regime over the next 18 months. Debate was not view of the fact that the EIT was still a relatively anticipated, but several member states intervened to unproven instrument. support the thrust of the initiative. The UK intervened to emphasise the need to protect the single market and focusing efforts on limiting distortive aid. The other AOB points covered the work programme CABINET OFFICE of the forthcoming Cypriot presidency, and an intervention from the Lithuanian delegation regarding the like-minded paper on the single market. Departmental Business Plans The main research and space items discussed on 31 May were: proposals for a regulation establishing The Minister of State, Cabinet Office (Mr Oliver Horizon 2020; progress reports on the proposed regulation Letwin): On 31 May the Government published an laying down the rules for participation and dissemination updated set of departmental business plans. in Horizon 2020, the Council decision establishing the specific programme implementing Horizon 2020 and Each Department’s business plan sets out: the Council regulation on the research and training its departmental priorities; programme of the European Atomic Energy Community the actions it will undertake to fulfil its priorities and when it complementing Horizon 2020; progress reports on the will take these actions; proposed decision on the strategic innovation agenda Its expenditure for each year of the spending review; and for the European Institute of Innovation and Technology the indicators and other data it will publish on the cost and and amending regulation establishing the European impact of the public services for which it is responsible. Institute of Innovation and Technology; and adoption The form and structure of the business plans has of Council conclusions on European innovation been improved from the previous versions in the following partnerships. ways: Council agreed a partial general approach on the a new annex has been added showing each Department’s Horizon 2020 core regulation. Agreement did not cover contributions to cross-cutting agendas including growth, the budget figures, which will be inserted when the social mobility, sustainable development, efficiency, open overall 2014-20 EU budget is agreed. I intervened to public services, the red tape challenge and the civil society compact; support retention of excellence as the primary funding criterion, the provisions in relation to funding of embryonic the structural reform plan sections are more focused on stem cell research and maintaining an appropriate balance actions that contribute to the Government’s reform agenda; activity representing “business as usual” has been moved to between funding different sizes of project. I urged the an annex; and Commission to bring the International Thermonuclear the information strategy section has been replaced by a Experimental Reactor (ITER) back within the multi-annual summary of each Department’s open data strategy, which financial framework. I argued for participants to have will be published in full later this summer. the option of being funded on the basis of actual indirect costs. We are also improving the way that progress against the plans is reported. We have updated the business Ministers took note of presidency progress reports plans website, available at: http://transparency.number10. on the remaining Horizon 2020 legislation (the regulation gov.uk/, so that it is clearer, more informative and easier laying down the rules for participation, the decision to use. The information will also be published in open establishing the specific programme for implementing formats, so that users will be able to analyse the data Horizon 2020, the regulation on the research and training more easily. 5WS Written Ministerial Statements11 JUNE 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 6WS

A full list of the changes to each of the departmental Over 370 applications to become Portas pilots were structural reform plans and input and impact indicators submitted from across the country and in response to contained in the business plans can be found at: clear appetite my Department has opened up a second http://www.number10.gov.uk/news/department-business-plans- round competition for a further 15 Portas pilots. Each updated-2012/ will receive the same funding as round one winners. The deadline for applications is 30 June. TREASURY In addition to supporting our high streets my Department wants to help ensure that local shopping parades, crucial Bilateral Loan to Ireland (Revised Interest Rate) to local neighbourhood economies, are not left lagging behind from lack of investment, antisocial behaviour The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr Mark and competition from online shopping and mega-store Hoban): I would like to update Parliament on the loan discounts. On 6 June, my Department published a new to Ireland. guide that builds on the Portas support, giving hands-on practical advice and insights on how to restore local Parliament will be aware that in July 2011 the Chancellor shops into vibrant business areas, highlighting the range committed in principle to lower the interest rate on the of Government support on offer to enable them to bilateral loan to Ireland. succeed. Following the agreement last year, the Treasury have now in principle agreed the new, lower interest rate on Helping families with their council tax bills the bilateral loan to Ireland. The new rate will represent This Government are determined to ensure that local the UK’s cost of funds plus a small service fee of 0.18%. residents get a fair deal on council tax that helps them The UK’s cost of funding is defined as the average yield with their cost of living. on gilt issuance in the six months prior to the disbursement of a tranche. This is subject to the loan agreement being On 28 May, my Department confirmed plans to revised to reflect the new rate. amend some technical council tax rules to give elected I will update Parliament once the revised loan agreement local councils greater flexibility to help residents through has been finalised and signed. fairer approaches to billing, second homes, empty homes HM Treasury has provided a further report to Parliament and solar panels. These reforms could allow councils to in relation to Irish loans as required under the Loans to make up to a £20 reduction in the bill for a typical band Ireland Act 2010 alongside this statement. D property in England, or hold bills down by the same amount. COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT These reforms will give local residents a new legal right to choose to pay their council tax bills in 12 monthly Departmental Business (Whitsun Recess) payments rather than 10 months; support the take-up of voluntary electronic billing; give councils greater local flexibility to choose to waive special tax relief on The Secretary of State for Communities and Local second homes and empty homes and allow councils to Government (Mr Eric Pickles): I would like to update use the monies to keep the overall rate of council tax hon. Members on the main items of business undertaken down. Reforms will allow councils to tackle long-term by my Department since the House rose on 24 May empty homes through an empty homes premium. Reforms 2012. will also prevent a “sun tax” supplement on bills for Diamond Jubilee Celebrations homes with solar panels or the need for intrusive inspections 2012 is a year of celebration and it was heartening to where panels are installed by a third party under the see how communities across the country came together “rent a roof” scheme. to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s diamond jubilee. Across the country thousands of street parties were The Government’s response to the technical consultation held and I praise local councils for showing the spirit of paper on council tax also outlined our plans to consider celebration and taking a flexible approach to local the issue of family annexes. My Department is keen to residents’ party plans. remove more of the tax and regulatory obstacles to families having a live-in annex for immediate relatives—such On 29 May, I endorsed and attended the launch of as those for teenagers or their elderly grandparents—more the Jubilee Hour campaign. Jubilee Hour calls on people commonly known as “granny flats”. While self-contained across the UK to donate 60 minutes of their time to annexes occupied by those over 65 benefit from a council help their local community, to honour the Queen’s 60 tax exemption, no form of relief is available for those years of service. under that age, and some families unreasonably face Supporting the High Street two separate council tax bills for one effective property. We are determined to see the nation’s high streets thrive and enable them to fulfil their potential as economic We will be undertaking further work through a broader hubs that will help drive growth across the country. review of how annexes for family homes can be supported On 26 May, my Department announced the first with the aim of augmenting housing supply and supporting 12 Portas pilot towns. The pilots will receive a share of extended families. £1.2 million; a dedicated contact point in Government Getting empty homes back into use to provide advice and support to help identify and overcome challenges to local business growth; have While the levels of long-term empty homes are at the access to free support from retail industry leaders and lowest levels since 2004, tackling the 720,000 empty opportunities to meet and discuss with fellow pilots to properties and bringing thousands of homes back into enable them to secure the future of their town centres. use is a top priority. 7WS Written Ministerial Statements11 JUNE 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 8WS

On 29 May, my Department announced the 20 successful Protecting homeowners from cowboy builders bids from local authorities that will receive a share of People take pride in their homes, investing in their the £60 million clusters of empty homes fund. Empty improvement and repair yet around 85,000 complaints homes can often attract antisocial behaviour and associated are made about building work in homes each year crimes such as vandalism and fly-tipping. By returning according to the Office of Fair Trading. empty homes back into use we can provide families On 6 June, my Department strengthened the requirements with much needed homes, kickstart local training and under competent persons schemes that allow traders to employment opportunities and help to improve local self-check their own work. Organisations that run competent communities. persons schemes now need to be accredited to an In addition voluntary and community groups across international quality standard in order to operate; have the country will receive over £25 million to tackle to assess that their members’ competence levels and individual empty properties in their area, to ensure that actual work are up to national standards; and be required another 5,600 empty homes are occupied once again. In to promote the membership and use of their schemes. total, the coalition Government are providing £155 Theses measures also ensure that householders have million of central funding, rising to £215 million including a financial safety net in place such as a guarantee or matched funding, to bring empty properties back into insurance, to catch them if self-check installers fail to productive use. finish work properly or if they cannot be chased through Supporting the Community Right to Build the courts. Copies of the accompanying press notices and associated We are giving communities the power to decide on documents have been placed in the Library of the future development in their local area and putting planning House. permission powers firmly back into the hands of local people.

Under the new community right to build, communities ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE will be able to approve new local developments without the need to go through the normal planning application process, as long as the proposals meet certain criteria Renewable Heat Incentive and there is the backing of more than 50% of voters in a local referendum. On 29 May, my Department made £17 million available to support communities to deliver The Minister of State, Department of Energy and building and development projects that the local area Climate Change (Gregory Barker): The renewable heat needs. incentive (RHI) is the first of its kind in the world and provides long-term support for renewable heat technologies In addition my Department has pledged a £2,000 such as heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar thermal “early bird bonus” to those communities that move panels. quickly and submit their plans in by the end of March next year. On 26 March 2012, I reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to growing the UK market for renewable To support communities, the charity locality is providing heat technologies by announcing further support for expert advice and detailed one-to-one mentoring for the domestic sector under a second phase of the renewable those looking to exercise their right to build. heat premium payment scheme (RHPP). At the same Tackling waiting lists and improving standards time I set out our delivery timetable for providing longer-term support for households, expanding the non- Tackling social housing waiting lists and getting families domestic scheme and transparent plans for staying within and vulnerable people into homes is a top priority. our budget for this year. The Localism Act 2011 will give local authorities the I am pleased to report that we are on track to meet flexibility to end the main homelessness duty by arranging the RHI delivery timetable and have met our first and offer of suitable accommodation in the private milestone. rented sector, without requiring the applicant’s consent. In March we consulted on a mechanism for more These changes to the homelessness legislation will give effectively managing the RHI budget in the short term. local authorities freedom to make better use of good-quality Today, I am pleased to publish our response which will private rented sector accommodation. They are part of ensure we have a stand-by budget management mechanism reforms to social housing to ensure that the system is in place this summer, enabling the sustainability of the fair; that good, affordable housing is available for those scheme by allowing us to keep within the budgetary who genuinely need it; and that we get the best from our limits set by the comprehensive spending review (CSR). 4 million social rented homes. Further, I can confirm that we are on track to consult on longer-term proposals in July 2012 as planned. On 31 May, my Department published new safeguards to protect families housed in the private rented sector To ensure the supply chain can be maintained with and ensure that safety standards and assurances are in the available funds in this spending review period, we place. This will provide extra legislative protection by have set an upper limit of £70 million for 2012-13. preventing local authorities from using poor quality However, it is important to note that the funding amounts private rented accommodation for households owed the announced in the spending review for 2013-14 and main homelessness duty. The consultation also sets out 2014-15 are unchanged. how homeless families should face the least possible The upper limit of £70 million ensures that the 2013-14 disruption when being offered new accommodation budget of £251 million would be enough to pay for and avoid the upheaval of long-distance moves. existing installations and new installations, were the 9WS Written Ministerial Statements11 JUNE 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 10WS

2012-13 limit to be reached. A higher limit for 2012-13 Having taken over this programme four months ago, would leave insufficient funds available in the following I have spent this time talking to stakeholders and year for new installations and therefore could be very understanding how to ensure successful delivery. Mindful damaging to the renewable heat industry. that we are creating the foundations for a market that In the event of having to use the stand-by mechanism, will run through to 2030, and in light of representations a notice period of one week would allow for a much I have received, the regulations I am laying today provide higher trigger point for suspension of the scheme for a carefully managed introduction of the green deal (£67.9 million, 97% of the £70 million limit) compared starting this autumn. with one months’notice (£56 million, 80% of the £70 million Subject to parliamentary approval of the green deal limit) and would also reduce the chances of scheme legislation, accredited certification bodies will be able to suspension being triggered unnecessarily. submit applications to register with the green deal We recognise the need to provide comprehensive registration and oversight body from August. The information on current and forecast scheme expenditure certification bodies will then be able to register those and to make it publically available. To do this we will assessors and installers they have certified. Similarly, provide a weekly information update on our website, potential green deal providers will be able to apply for tracking our committed expenditure. If required we will their approval. This will allow participants time to seek also provide an estimated date of suspension prior to formal authorisation ahead of the introduction of the the formal notice period, in the event of an unexpected green deal framework in the autumn. It is important surge in uptake such that suspension is likely to be that the market will be able to test systems properly triggered. during the first weeks following the introduction of the I would like to thank all those people who helped us green deal framework and ahead of the first fully completed develop these plans. I can confirm that after careful green deal plans in early 2013. In the meantime, the consideration, should we need to use the stand-by energy company obligation (ECO) legislation I have put mechanism, this will be done when the spend in 2012-13 before Parliament today will ensure that a new ECO is is forecast to reach £67.9 million with a formal notification established from October this year. This will mean that period of one week. Given current uptake figures, we an estimated £1.3 billion-worth per year of energy do not currently envisage having to use this mechanism. efficiency and heating measures can be delivered across However, we have learnt from our previous experiences Great Britain. This will be directed to vulnerable and and want to provide assurances to the market and the lower-income households, and carbon saving measures. public that we are spending money on the RHI in a The Government remain absolutely committed to tackling sustainable way. fuel poverty. Government remain committed to the deployment of An important aspect of preparations is training the renewable heat and as such we are continuously looking work force, and I took an obligation in the Energy Act at innovative ways of supporting it across all sectors. 2011 to report to Parliament on what steps I have taken to encourage green deal installation apprenticeships. On 8 March 2012, in co-operation with asset skills and Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation construction skills, I announced £3.5 million to train up to 1,000 green deal insulation installers, and 1,000 green deal assessors to our new national occupational standard The Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change for green deal assessment. This training will also include (Mr Edward Davey): Today my Department is publishing the validation of existing installer training courses to the Government response to the green deal and ECO meet the new green deal PAS 2030 requirements and the consultation ahead of the introduction of the green training of trainers to ensure quality training courses deal this autumn. are available. I welcome the wide support from industry Having considered over 600 written responses from a for this initiative and the huge level of interest reported variety of organisations and individuals, I would like to by the sector skills councils. We believe the green deal thank all those who submitted a formal response or has the potential to support up to 60,000 jobs in the participated through the various activities held during insulation sector alone, more than doubling the number the consultation. Feedback from the consultation directed of jobs in the sector, and making a real contribution to our focus towards four key policy areas: strengthening green growth. consumer protection, reducing industry burdens, improving We will work with the insulation sector to explore the behind-the-scenes operations and revising ECO. I have value of a second tranche of funding for training later acted on these areas, and full details of the final policy in the year to help those moving from the carbon are set out in the Government response. emissions reduction target (CERT) and the community Following consultation, this week I am laying before energy saving programme (CESP) and into related green Parliament the key statutory instruments which establish deal installations. In addition to this, my Department the market framework of the green deal and ECO, will continue to work with employers and the sector subject to the affirmative procedure. I am laying these skills councils to ensure that the Government’s wider instruments alongside the final impact assessment, which apprenticeship frameworks support not only the green evaluates the net present value of the policies. My deal, but also green and sustainable construction more Department has simultaneously published associated generally. research, which informed our final conclusions. Later in We have created a robust legal framework, which June, I will lay before Parliament a second tranche of enables a market in energy efficiency to flourish. We are more minor green deal statutory instruments subject to committed to ensuring that the interests of green deal the negative procedure. I will also be bringing forward providers and financiers remain protected to maintain the green deal code of practice and modifications to the security of green deal asset and thus secure the energy licences and codes. lowest possible cost finance for consumers. 11WS Written Ministerial Statements11 JUNE 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 12WS

It is only sensible to keep regulations under review The Pensions Act 2008 introduces a duty on employers and, for the sake of transparency, I will commit now to to automatically enrol jobholders into a workplace review these regulations, in consultation with appropriate pension scheme. A jobholder is defined in the Act to stakeholders, before 31 January 2018 and to publish the include an individual, conclusions in a report. The report will set out the “who is working or ordinarily works in Great Britain under the objectives of these regulations and assess the extent to worker’s contract”. which they were achieved, whether they remain appropriate A minority of workers may be “qualifying persons”— and, if so, the extent to which they could be achieved that is individuals employed under a contract of service with a system that imposes less regulation. and whose place of work under that contract is sufficiently located in another European economic area state so that their relationship with their employer is subject to HOME DEPARTMENT the social and labour law relevant to the field of occupational pension schemes of that EEA state. It is possible that a small number of individuals will Family Migration have “dual-status”—being both a qualifying person and a jobholder simultaneously. This overlap means that there is a potential conflict between the employers’ The Secretary of State for the Home Department duties to automatically enrol eligible jobholders and (Mrs Theresa May): I will later today be making an oral pension providers being able to offer a suitable product statement to the House on family migration. for this purpose. It is my intention to lay regulations exempting European employers from automatically enrolling “dual-status” WORK AND PENSIONS workers and ensure that employers are able to comply with the employers’ duties required by the Pensions Act 2008. Workplace Pension Reform I would like to thank all those people and organisations who have offered their views and advice in response to the consultation. A copy of the Government’s response The Minister of State, Department for Work and and the associated impact assessment will be placed in Pensions (Steve Webb): Later today the Government the Libraries of both Houses and will be available later will publish a response to the consultation document today on the Department’s website: http://www.dwp.gov.uk/ “Automatic Enrolment and European Employers”. consultations/2012/. 1P Petitions11 JUNE 2012 Petitions 2P

Parking Plan (LATM&P) measures, have undertaken Petition extensive public engagement exercises in this area and acted on feedback received as far as possible. This has Monday 11 June 2012 included, in addition to formal statutory requirements, engaging residents and businesses located around the venue and the ORN who are affected by our plans. OBSERVATIONS LOCOG and TfL activities included: drop-in sessions; public community/business meetings; TRANSPORT leaflet and letter drops; Olympic Transport Arrangements posters/adverts; The Petition of Michael Spinks of Essex Flour and information provided on the London 2012 website; and Grain Co. Ltd., Declares that the Petitioner is concerned that during utilising local authority communication channels. the period of local road closures for the Olympic Games, LOCOG has also been supporting business and freight local businesses (including Essex Flour & Grain Co. programme workshops and have provided the appropriate Ltd) may be forced into liquidation as a result of an LATM&P information at the relevant sessions. These inability to receive and dispatch goods and that this sessions have been attended by other local businesses may result in job losses. and Essex Flour and Grain were also invited. I understand The Petitioners therefore request that the House of from LOCOG that that feedback from businesses has Commons urges the Government to encourage the London been generally good. Organising Committee of the Olympic Games to take LOCOG is also organising briefing sessions aimed at all possible steps to ensure freedom of access for private business intermediaries and umbrella organisations. This and commercial vehicles to businesses in Lee Conservancy will be an opportunity to raise further awareness of the Road, Hackney Wick and the immediate neighbourhood plans with the business community and to allow them during the period of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. to distil the message further to their members. And the Petitioner remains, etc.—[Presented by Meg Hillier, Official Report, 17 April 2012; Vol. 543, c. 292.] These steps will ensure that access to and from premises is maintained and businesses are able to continue their [P001018] normal activities, albeit in some cases using alternative Observations from the Secretary of State for Transport: routes or potentially at different times of day to current Keeping London moving and minimising the impact operations. of the London 2012 games on business are a key part of In relation to the specific case referred to in this the Government’s transport objectives for the games. petition, officials in the Department for Transport The London Organising Committee for the Olympic understand that LOCOG has recently provided Essex and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and Transport for Flour and Grain Ltd with documentation demonstrating London (TfL) are the Olympic Delivery Authority’s key the transport routes available to allow them to continue delivery partners in ensuring the effective management their business activities. of the road network in the vicinity of the Petitioner. Both are continuing to engage with businesses in the The Department for Transport has also been in area to ensure that the adverse impacts of the temporary correspondence with Mr Spinks and other representatives games measures are minimised as far as possible. from the Essex Flour and Grain Ltd. In our responses Through the programme of travel advice to business we have urged them to continue to engage with their workshops, LOCOG and TfL have engaged with businesses contacts at LOCOG to get their issues resolved. across London and have identified ways of minimising I recognise that the proximity of the Olympic Park disruption, for example by removing or relaxing the will mean that businesses in the Hackney Wick area, restrictions around night time lorry movements during including the Essex Flour and Grain Company, will the period of the games. encounter temporary disruption. However we encourage Over the last year both TfL working on the proposed all businesses in this position to continue to engage with Olympic Route Network measures, and LOCOG on LOCOG and TfL to find ways of minimising the impact the Olympic Park Local Area Traffic Management and on their businesses.

1W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 2W

delivered outside these programmes is not included. Written Answers to Housing starts cover new build starts only while completions include both new build and acquisitions. Questions Data up to 31 March 2012 will be published by the Homes and Communities Agency on 12 June 2012. Total affordable completions, including those delivered Monday 11 June 2012 outside the Homes and Communities Agency’s programmes, are published annually in the Department’s Affordable Housing Supply statistics available on the COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT Department’s website: http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ Affordable Housing: Coventry housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/ affordablehousingsupply/livetables/ Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Broadband: Rural Areas Communities and Local Government how many affordable homes have been built in Coventry since May 2010; and what steps his Department has taken to increase the Harriett Baldwin: To ask the Secretary of State for number of affordable homes in Coventry during that Communities and Local Government what guidance he period. [110295] plans to provide parish councils on their general power of competence to provide a rural broadband service to Andrew Stunell: There were 303 affordable homes residents. [109383] delivered in Coventry city council area between April 2010 and September 2011, the latest period for which Robert Neill: We have no plans to produce guidance data are available, as reported in the Homes and on the general power of competence. How councils Communities Agency’s six monthly National Housing choose to use this power will be ultimately up to them. Statistics. Data up to 31 March 2012 will be published Separate advice on applying to the Rural Community by the Homes and Communities Agency on 12 June Broadband Fund, which is open to parish councils, is 2012. available at: http://rdpenetwork.defra.gov.uk/funding-sources/rural- These statistics only cover affordable housing that is community-broadband-fund delivered through the Homes and Communities Agency’s affordable housing programmes; affordable housing Bureaucracy delivered outside these programmes is not included. New affordable housing can be delivered through new Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for build and acquisitions, although the majority of the Communities and Local Government whether his additional supply in Coventry was through new build. Department plans to respond to the Cabinet Office’s Total affordable completions, including those delivered red-tape review. [110385] outside the Homes and Communities Agency’s programmes, are published annually in the Department’s Grant Shapps: The Department for Communities and Affordable Housing Supply statistics available on the Local Government is leading on the ‘Housing and Department’s website: Construction’ theme of Cabinet Office’s Red Tape http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ Challenge, as well as contributing to other themes across housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/ Government. The ‘Housing and Construction’ theme affordablehousingsupply/livetables/ went live on the Red Tape Challenge website on 12 January We are investing £4.5 billion over the spending review 2012 and the results of this theme will be announced period to deliver up to 170,000 affordable homes, compared following its completion through the Red Tape Challenge with the 150,000 originally estimated. We estimate that process. this investment will lever in £15 billion of private sector investment. Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government which housing Affordable Housing: New Abbot regulations currently being consulted on by the Cabinet Office in its red tape review his Department has Anne Marie Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for recommended be scrapped. [110386] Communities and Local Government how many affordable homes have been (a) started and (b) completed in Grant Shapps: The Department for Communities and Newton Abbot constituency since May 2010. [108149] Local Government is currently in the process of reviewing housing regulations as part of the ‘Housing and Andrew Stunell: Data are not available by constituency Construction’ Red Tape Challenge theme. Our proposals area. There were 57 affordable homes started and 163 are yet to be finalised but will be announced in due completed in Teignbridge district council between April course. 2010 and September 2011, the latest period for which This review should be taken in context of the policies data are available, as reported in the Homes and and measures announced in November’s housing strategy. Communities Agency’s six monthly National Housing That strategy outlines how the Government are committed Statistics. to better environmental standards; more affordable housing; These statistics only cover affordable housing that is security of tenure; legal protection for tenants and delivered through the Homes and Communities Agency’s leaseholders; and support for the elderly, vulnerable affordable housing programmes; affordable housing households and those on low incomes. 3W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 4W

We have already taken a series of steps to cut unnecessary Empty Property red tape, including abolishing home information packs, reducing burdens on short-term holiday lets, removing Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for blanket regulation on houses of multiple occupation Communities and Local Government what steps he is that would have reduced choice for tenants, and introduced taking to promote the refurbishment of empty and new freedoms and flexibilities for social landlords via vacant homes. [110590] the Localism Act. This review will help inform the scope for further reductions of such unnecessary and Andrew Stunell: We have set aside £160 million to disproportionate red tape. bring empty homes back into use. On 5 March, I announced almost £70 million of that funding for 95 projects will bring over 5,600 properties back into use Coastal Areas across the country, far exceeding original expectations of 3,300 homes. On 29 May, I announced that voluntary David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for and community groups will receive over £25 million to Communities and Local Government if he will provide bring properties back into use as affordable housing, funding for marina projects in seaside resorts. [109827] ensuring another 1,500 properties that have been identified are lived in once again. 20 local authorities will also Grant Shapps: There are several funding regimes each receive a share of £60 million to tackle clusters of supported by the Government which could offer a empty homes. Using match funding, this will ensure potential source of financial help for marina projects in another 5,600 homes are brought back into use. seaside resorts. The Coastal Communities Fund provides Under the New Homes Bonus, local authorities earn money for projects to support economic growth and the same financial reward for bringing an empty home jobs in coastal communities. Other possible sources of back into use as building a new one. Over the first two help include the Regional Growth Fund and the European years of New Homes Bonus, local authorities will have Regional Development Fund. benefited from £63.2 million as a result of the 21,000 In January, my Department published a regeneration decrease in long-term empty homes. toolkit. This gives information on a range of tools and I have appointed George Clarke as an independent funding sources to help local areas to deliver growth adviser on empty homes. It is also worth pointing out and regeneration. A copy was placed in the Library of that the Local Government Finance Bill contains provisions the House. for a discretionary empty homes premium on council tax to be introduced next year. Community Development: Lancashire Empty Property: Bolton

David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what funding his Communities and Local Government how many empty Department has provided to community projects in the homes there are in Bolton Metropolitan Borough. Carnforth area in the last 12 months. [109306] [110292]

Grant Shapps: The Department for Communities and Andrew Stunell: Data on empty homes can be found Local Government has not directly funded any projects in the Department for Communities and Local Government in the Carnforth area in the last 12 months. The Department live tables on dwelling stock. Live table 615 shows funds relatively few projects directly. empty homes by local authority district. http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/stockincludingvacants/ Council Housing: Waiting Lists livetables/ Families: Disadvantaged Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether local Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for authorities prioritise housing applications from homeless Communities and Local Government which local people who reside in sheltered housing or residential authorities have agreed to participate in the troubled homes. [110149] families programme. [109916]

Grant Shapps: Local authorities deal with homelessness Robert Neill: All 152 upper tier local authorities in applications on a case by case basis. If a household is England have now agreed to run the troubled families homeless through no fault of their own, eligible (certain programme in their area. categories of persons from abroad are ineligible) and in priority need then the local authority has a duty to Fires: Cigarettes ensure that suitable accommodation is available for them. The priority need categories include someone Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for who is vulnerable because of old age, or physical or Communities and Local Government how many people mental disability. died in fires caused by cigarettes in 2011. [109692] Certain people must be given ‘reasonable preference’ (i.e. priority) if they apply for social housing. This Robert Neill: Fire incident and casualty statistics are includes people who are homeless or owed certain duties currently available for periods up to the end of September under the homelessness legislation. 2011. In the 12 months to September 2011, there were 5W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 6W

78 fire-related deaths in England caused by smokers’ No European regional development fund funding materials, the category of source of ignition in which from the Yorkshire and the Humber Fund Programme cigarettes are recorded. has been committed to, or spent on, flood defence A decade ago, there were around 100 such fatalities schemes in the last five years. each year. Following the recent introduction of fire Flood defences do not generally meet the criteria in safer cigarettes, it is expected that this number will fall the 2007-13 European regional development fund further. operational programmes although some applications have included aspects of flood defence. First Time Buyers The criteria for submissions of project proposals are defined in each of the nine European regional development fund operational programmes in England. An applicant Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for would need to consider those set out in the relevant Communities and Local Government how much operational programme and determine whether their funding his Department allocated under the FirstBuy proposal meets them. However, it is unlikely that a scheme in each region in (a) 2011-12, (b) 2012-13, (c) flood defence-related project would meet the criteria in 2013-14 and (d) 2014-15. [110420] most of the operational programmes as the four priorities for the 2007-13 programme are: Grant Shapps: The FirstBuy equity loan scheme will Promoting innovation and knowledge transfer; help an estimated 10,500 aspiring home owners in England by March 2013. The FirstBuy prospectus was published Stimulating enterprise and supporting successful business; by the Homes and Communities Agency in April 2011 Ensuring sustainable development, production and consumption; and allocations were announced in June of the same and year. A list of FirstBuy allocations is available at: Building sustainable communities. www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/sites/default/files/firstbuy- allocations-by-hca-operating-area.csv Food: Waste Disposal Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many house Laura Sandys: To ask the Secretary of State for builders are participating in the Government’s Firstbuy Communities and Local Government which local scheme. [110401] authorities collect food waste separately from other waste. [109882] Grant Shapps: The Firstbuy equity loan scheme will help an estimated 10,500 aspiring home owners in England Robert Neill: The Department for Communities and by March 2013. Firstbuy allocations to house builders Local Government does not hold this information. were announced in June 2011 and 108 house builders However the Waste and Resources Action Programme have subsequently signed contracts with the Homes and holds information about the number of local authorities Communities Agency to deliver Firstbuy. that collect food waste. In the UK, 107 local authorities collect food waste separately from other waste. A further Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for 95 local authorities collect food waste mixed in with Communities and Local Government how much his garden waste and 10 local authorities collect waste in Department has spent on promotional material for the both of these ways. 194 local authorities do not collect Government’s Firstbuy Guarantee scheme. [110434] food waste separately from other waste at all.

Grant Shapps: The Department has not incurred any Laura Sandys: To ask the Secretary of State for expenditure on promotional material for the Firstbuy Communities and Local Government which local scheme. authorities use anaerobic digesters to dispose of food waste that is collected separately from other waste items. Flood Control: EU Grants and Loans [109883]

Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for Robert Neill: The Department for Communities and Communities and Local Government (1) how much Local Government does not hold this information. European regional development fund funding has been However the Waste and Resources Action Programme given to support flood defence schemes in (a) England holds information relating to the location of anaerobic and (b) Yorkshire and Humberside in each of the last digesters. These are located in: Aberdeenshire, Wiltshire, five years; [110699] Somerset, Cambridgeshire (two), Yorkshire, Devon, North Lanarkshire (two), Gloucestershire, West Yorkshire, Isle (2) what the criteria are for submissions for of Lewis, Suffolk, North Ayrshire, Leicestershire, Greater European regional development fund funding for flood Manchester, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire (two), defences. [110700] Oxfordshire (two), Perthshire, Plymouth, West Sussex, Hertfordshire, Staffordshire (two), Shropshire (two) and Robert Neill: In the last five years, £1,571,212 of North Humberside. However, the Waste and Resources European regional development fund was given to one Action Programme does not hold data as to which of flood defence-related capital project in London. This these anaerobic digesters use food waste collected by was the only expenditure in the England fund programme local authorities, and which simply process other feedstocks on flood defence. (for example pig slurry or abattoir waste). 7W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 8W

Laura Sandys: To ask the Secretary of State for very special circumstances” and that “‘very special Communities and Local Government what discussions circumstances’ will not exist unless the potential harm his Department has had with the Department for to the Green Belt by reason of inappropriateness, and Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to discuss the any other harm, is clearly outweighed by other role local authorities might play in reducing household considerations.” This replicates the policy set out in the food waste. [109884] previous Planning Policy Guidance 2: Green Belts. Paragraphs 89-91 set out in more detail the forms of Robert Neill: The Secretary of State for Communities development that should be regarded as inappropriate and Local Government, my right hon. Friend the Member and the limited exceptions to this. for Brentwood and Ongar (Mr Pickles), works closely As with all national planning policies, these policies with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and will be applied by decision-takers taking account of all Rural Affairs, his right hon. Friend the Member for the circumstances of a specific case. Meriden (Mrs Spelman), to ensure that we are reducing household waste and provide a comprehensive rubbish Homes and Communities Agency: Housing and recycling collections service to local taxpayers. To achieve this goal, officials in both departments have worked together in shaping the criteria of the Weekly Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Collection Support Scheme which will support local Communities and Local Government (1) how many authorities to provide a weekly collection of waste affordable homes were constructed by the Homes and alongside delivering environmental benefit and ensuring Communities Agency in the last six months for which cost effectiveness. figures are available; and what the percentage rise or fall was compared with the previous six months; Google [110427] (2) how many homes for social rent were constructed Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for by the Homes and Communities Agency in the last six Communities and Local Government how much his months for which figures are available; and what the Department and its agencies spent on advertising via percentage rise or fall was compared with the previous Google Adwords since May 2010; and for what keywords. six months. [110428] [110435] Grant Shapps: The Homes and Communities Agency Robert Neill: The Department and its agencies spent publish statistics on housing delivered through their nothing on advertising via Google Adwords from May programmes for social rent and affordable housing. 2010 to April 2012. In order to ensure eligible tenants Data for the first six months of 2011-12 were published could easily find accurate online information about the in November 2011, but excludes affordable housing changes to the reinvigorated Right to Buy scheme, supply provided outside their programmes, available at: approved by Parliament and effective from 1 April, the http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/sites/default/files/ Department has spent £6,122 in total during April and aboutus/official-statistics-release-221111.pdf May 2012 in directing traffic to the Right to Buy pages on the DirectGov website. The keywords most used are: The Homes and Communities Agency have reported right to buy, first time buyer(s), right to buy housing that they have exceeded their Corporate plan targets for association, first time home buyer, right to buy scheme, affordable housing this year. They will be publishing council right to buy, buying your council home, buy my their official statistics for 2011-12 on 12 June 2012. council house, right to buy council. Payment is by The Homes and Communities Agency housing delivery results—so only key words used by browsers to click programme has a cyclical financial profile, in that the through to the site are charged for, on a per click basis. rate of housing delivery under the former National To place this spending in context, from April 2009 to Affordable Housing Programme has typically tended to March 2010, the last administration spent a total of gather pace in the second half of the financial year. £212,825 on Google Adwords, against 868 different The response from the sector to the Affordable Homes keywords. Programme reflects the Homes and Communities Agency’s partners’ appetite and capacity to develop, and is a solid Green Belt position from which to deliver our aspiration for up to 170,000 new affordable homes by April 2015. Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for This is a period of transition to the new programme Communities and Local Government with reference to and the Homes and Communities Agency have now the answer of 30 April 2012, Official Report, columns signed contracts with 122 providers for around £1.7 billion 1111-2W, on planning permission: green belt, what the on the Affordable Homes Programme against a budget very special circumstances are in which development of £1.8 billion. may be permitted on green belt land under the National Planning Policy Framework; and how this varies from We have also asked the Homes and Communities the previous planning rules in relation to green belt Agency to explore options for accelerating delivery of their programme. development. [106889]

Greg Clark: The National Planning Policy Framework Housing maintains robust protections for green belt land. Paragraphs 87-88 of the framework are clear that Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for “inappropriate development is, by definition, harmful Communities and Local Government what estimate he to the Green Belt and should not be approved except in has made of the number and proportion of (a) households 9W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 10W and (b) people in the (i) private rented, (ii) social rented or flats for England and each local authority area. and (iii) owner-occupier sector living in overcrowded These figures are available only from the Homes and conditions in (A) 2010 and (B) 2011. [110382] Communities Agency’s Investment Management System, so will not cover the total number of affordable homes Andrew Stunell: Levels of overcrowding and under- provided. occupation are measured using the ‘bedroom standard’, Information on the proportion of new privately built which is the difference between the number of bedrooms homes by bedroom size and dwelling type for England needed to avoid undesirable sharing (given the number, and each region are published in Live Table 254 on the ages and relationship of the household members) and Department’s website at: the number of bedrooms actually available to the household. http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ The answer is taken from the English Housing Survey housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/housebuilding/livetables/ 2010-11. Due to small sample sizes it is necessary to Corresponding data for each local authority area is combine three years of data (2008-09, 2009-10 and not available. 2010-11) together to form the estimates. Even so, there is uncertainty around these figures due to sampling Journalism effects. It was estimated that in private rented sector over a three year period, 187,000 households (5.6%) Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for lived in overcrowded conditions, in the social rented Communities and Local Government how many sector it was 278,000 households (7.3%), and in the meetings the Minister of State for Communities and owner occupied sector it was 191,000 households (1.3%). Local Government has had (a) in total and (b) with It was estimated that in the private rented sector over journalists since May 2010. [110458] a three year period, 787,000 people (10.0%) lived in overcrowded conditions, in the social rented sector it Robert Neill: Details of Ministers’ departmental meetings was 1,269,000 people (15.1%), and in the owner occupied with external organisations, including meetings with sector it was 969,000 people (2.8%). newspaper and other media proprietors, editors and senior executives, are published at: Housing: Construction http://www.communities.gov.uk/corporate/ transparencyingovernment/ministerialdata Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Kingston upon Hull Communities and Local Government what assessment he has made of the effect of the coming-into-force of Alan Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for the National Planning Policy Framework on the Communities and Local Government on (a) how Housing Market Renewal initiative. [109961] many occasions and (b) what dates the Minister for Housing and Local Government has undertaken an Grant Shapps: No specific assessment has been made official visit to Hull since his appointment. [109101] of the effect of the National Planning Policy Framework coming-into-force on the housing market renewal initiative Robert Neill: Since May 2010, the following ministerial as the initiative ended in March 2011. The National visits to Hull have been made by the Department for Planning Policy Framework, which was published on Communities and Local Government ministerial team: the 27 March 2012, asks local planning authorities to identify and bring back into residential use empty homes The Hull city council area, on 18 August 2011 and buildings in line with local housing and empty The Hull city council area, on 9 December 2011 homes strategies. The recently appointed Independent Empty Homes The last Administration’s Housing Market Renewal Adviser visited the Hull city council area on 28 May Pathfinder scheme promoted wholesale demolition of 2012. homes. By contrast, this Government is actively promoting Listed Buildings getting empty homes back into productive use. Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many listed Communities and Local Government (1) what proportion buildings had (a) approved alterations and (b) of all new (a) dwellings, (b) affordable homes and (c) alterations carried out in (i) total and (ii) each region in homes for social rent in England were (i) flats and (ii) 2011. [109710] houses in each year since 1997; [110430] (2) what proportion of new (a) affordable and (b) Robert Neill: The number of applications decided privately built homes had (i) one, (ii) two, (iii) three and and granted on the alteration or extension of listed (iv) four or more bedrooms in each local authority area buildings in England and each Government region in in each year since 1997; and what proportion of new 2011 is detailed as follows. Information is not available (A) affordable and (B) privately-built homes were (1) on the number of works actually carried out. flats and (2) houses in each local authority area in each year since 1997. [110438] Number Decisions Granted Andrew Stunell: Tables have been placed in the Library of the House which show the percentage of social North East 680 634 rented and affordable homes delivered through the Homes North West 1,428 1,343 and Communities Agency’s Affordable Housing Yorkshire and the 1,769 1,598 Humber Programme by the number of bedrooms and by houses 11W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 12W

(527 full-time equivalent) were employed by the Department Number for Communities and Local Government. The Decisions Granted Department’s total staffing complement was thus 2,662 East Midlands 1,828 1,673 staff (2,573 full-time equivalent). West Midlands 2,128 1,995 East 3,955 3,658 As of 1 May 2012, the Department’s staffing had London 4,531 4,084 reduced to 1,751 staff (1,702 full-time equivalent). The South East 6,197 5,651 Government offices for the regions have closed. South West 5,923 5,470 This May 2012 figure includes some transferred staff National Park 484 450 now undertaking residual activities of the Government Authorities offices for the regions and the regional development agencies, and from staff transferred in from other bodies England 28,923 26,556 through machinery of government changes. The actual number of staff departures is thus greater than reflected Local Government: Intellectual Property in the figures. As part of the spending review settlement, the DCLG Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Group is making a collective 33% real terms saving Communities and Local Government pursuant to the against its running costs by 2014-15. This equates to answer of 22 May 2012, Official Report, columns 559-60W, savings of over £200 million by 2014-15. In addition, on local government: intellectual property, what the Department will save a further £190 million from consideration he has given to expanding the definition the closure of the Government offices for the regions, of assets of community value under the Localism Act taking overall savings on administrative running costs 2011 to include (a) local newspapers and (b) other to 42% across the DCLG Group by 2014-15. These assets which are intangible or are intellectual property savings reflect the coalition Government’s agenda of closely associated with the community. [110139] decentralisation, ending the micromanagement of local government, the abolition of regional government, and Andrew Stunell: The intention of the assets of community the broader need to tackle the deficit left by the last provisions in the Localism Act is to make it easier for Administration. community groups to take over buildings and other land to assist them in saving facilities threatened with closure. Therefore the provisions in the Localism Act Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for 2011 enable only land to be an asset of community Communities and Local Government how many value. full-time equivalent employees have (a) left and (b) been recruited to his Department in the last two years. Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government pursuant to the [108180] answer of 22 May 2012, Official Report, columns 559-60W, on local government: intellectual property, Robert Neill: The information is as follows: whether any amendments to the Localism Act 2011 to include assets which are intangible or are intellectual Departures property closely associated with the community within the definition of assets of community value in Wales From 1 May 2010 to 1 May 2012, 977 staff (934 could be made under powers delegated to the National full-time equivalent staff) left the Department for Assembly for Wales. [110140] Communities and Local Government. Additionally, 381 full-time equivalent staff employed by the Department Andrew Stunell: Section 87(1) of the Localism Act working in the Government offices for the regions left 2011 provides that it is land which may be listed as an the Department, due to the closure of the Government asset of community value, and section 88 provides offices. detail on the circumstances in which a building or other Recruitment land is land of community value. There is no power to amend these provisions by regulations, for either England 86 full-time equivalent staff have been recruited by or Wales, to enable intangible or intellectual property to the Department in the period 1 May 2010 to 1 May become assets of community value. 2012. Half of these were recruited before the recruitment freeze began. 25 full-time equivalent of those recruited Manpower were civil service fast stream staff, who are exempt from the recruitment freeze, and another 13 were appointed Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for on specialist fixed term contracts, of which, only three Communities and Local Government how many full-time are still working in the Department. equivalent employees his Department employed in May Transfers 2010; and how many it employed at the latest period for which figures are available. [108165] Some staff were transferred into the Department from the Government office for the regions and regional Robert Neill: As at 31 May 2010, the Department for development agencies (to undertake residual functions— Communities and Local Government employed 2,108 such as ERDF administration) and from other bodies staff (2,046 full-time equivalent). In addition, the through machinery of government changes. As of 1 May Government offices for the regions employed 1,726 2012, 379 full-time equivalent transfers were still active staff (1,646 full-time equivalent), of which 554 staff and counted on the Department’s official headcount. 13W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 14W

Broader savings The Coastal Communities Fund, launched earlier As part of the spending review settlement, the DCLG this year, supports the economic development of coastal group is making a collective 33% real terms saving communities by promoting growth and jobs. Other against its running costs by 2014-15. This equates to possible sources of help include the Regional Growth savings of over £200 million by 2014-15. In addition, Fund and the European Regional Development Fund. the Department will save a further £190 million from In January, my Department published a regeneration the closure of the Government offices for the regions, toolkit. This gives information on a range of tools and taking overall savings on administrative running costs funding sources to help local areas to deliver growth to 42% across the DCLG group by 2014-15. These and regeneration. A copy was placed in the Library of savings reflect the coalition Government’s agenda of the House. decentralisation, ending the micro-management of local government, the abolition of regional government and Planning Permission the broader need to tackle the deficit left by the last Administration. Roberta Blackman-Woods: To ask the Secretary of Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for State for Communities and Local Government (1) Communities and Local Government what target he when his Department expects its review of planning has set to reduce headcount across his Department, its guidance to conclude; [109587] non-departmental public bodies and Executive agencies (2) with reference to the introduction of the National in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and (c) 2012-13; and if he Planning Policy Framework in March 2012, which will make a statement. [110240] planning guidance he is reviewing; and if he will make a statement. [109701] Robert Neill: The Department for Communities and Local Government has recently completed a major Greg Clark: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I programme of restructuring which began in October gave my hon. Friend the Member for Daventry (Chris 2010. The Department’s actual planned establishment Heaton-Harris) on 17 May 2012, Official Report, columns for 1 November 2012 and going forward is 1,757 full-time 246-47W. equivalent staff. The Department’s arm’s length bodies are expected Roberta Blackman-Woods: To ask the Secretary of to make significant savings over the spending review State for Communities and Local Government what period, though no specific headcount targets have been key performance indicators his Department plans to set. use to judge the success of the National Planning As part of the spending review settlement, the Policy Framework. [109588] Department for Communities and Local Government Group is making a collective 33% real terms saving Greg Clark: The Department’s updated Business plan against its running costs by 2014-15. This equates to for 2012-15 will be published shortly. This will include savings of over £200 million by 2014-15. In addition, the indicators to be used to monitor progress in priority the Department will save a further £190 million from areas. the closure of the Government offices for the regions, taking overall savings on administrative running costs Roberta Blackman-Woods: To ask the Secretary of to 42% across the Department for Communities and State for Communities and Local Government what Local Government Group by 2014-15. These savings timetable his Department has set to review the (a) reflect the coalition Government’s agenda of National Planning Policy Framework and (b) the decentralisation, ending the micromanagement of local Localism Act. [109927] government, the abolition of regional government, and the broader need to tackle the deficit left by the last Greg Clark: Having shaped the development of the Administration. new National Planning Policy Framework, I am determined that Parliament should supervise its implementation, Morecambe Winter Gardens Theatre through future debates on planning policy.My Department is keeping implementation of the framework under David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for review and will undertake a post-implementation review Communities and Local Government what funding his after the first year. Department plans to provide for the restoration of There are no plans for a specific review of the Localism Morecambe Winter Gardens Theatre. [109305] Act, which is in the process of being implemented, but we will comply with the requirements set out in the Grant Shapps: My Department currently has no Sunsetting Regulations Guidance published in December committed plans to provide funding, although I understand 2011. that the Morecambe Winter Gardens Preservation Trust has submitted an expression of interest to the Coastal Sarah Newton: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities Fund; any bid will be considered on its Communities and Local Government what his policy is merits in due course. on holding referenda on Neighbourhood Plans at the We are committed to helping coastal and seaside same time as political elections. [110635] towns, and my Department works across Government to support efforts to promote their economic regeneration Robert Neill: The Government believe it is right that and strengthen their appeal as places to live, work and local authorities have the opportunity of holding visit. neighbourhood planning referendums at the same time 15W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 16W as other elections and referendums happening in the through training, accreditation and awareness-raising, local area to reduce the burden on voters and better alongside direct engagement through local letting agencies manage costs. and private leasing schemes. We welcome these schemes, but know that they work best when tailored to local Poverty circumstances, and have no plans for any top down intervention from central Government. Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many adults Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State of working age were living in income-deprived for Communities and Local Government whether his households in each (a) local authority area and (b) Department has considered providing incentives to constituency in each of the last three years by the most encourage private renting rather than home ownership. recent indices of multiple deprivation data. [110379] [110686]

Andrew Stunell: We do not compile statistics on the Andrew Stunell: Both home ownership and private number of adults of working age living in income-deprived renting have an important place in the housing market. households. However, the Indices of Deprivation 2010 They fit different people’s needs and aspirations at do provide a count of people of all ages experiencing different times in the housing cycle. Recent growth in income deprivation and these are available for each the size of the private rented sector underlines how it local authority.We do not produce the indices of deprivation can respond flexibly to changing circumstances. This at constituency level. growth was achieved in response to the market conditions Summary indicators for local authority districts include and without any specific intervention from my Department. the “income scale score”. This is a count of individuals We continue to support the sector by ensuring that it is experiencing income deprivation. It includes adults of not overburdened with unnecessary regulation. working age, older people, children and asylum seekers. The data are available at the following link (see column Redundancy G—income scale): http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/statistics/xls/ Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for 1871689.xls Communities and Local Government how many of his It is not possible to provide these estimates for the Department’s employees have been made redundant in last three years as the indices of deprivation are not the last two years. [108066] compiled every year. The Indices of Deprivation 2010, published in March 2011, are the most recent indices Robert Neill: 977 staff left the Department for and have updated the 2007 indices. Most of the indicators Communities and Local Government in the period are based on 2008 data. 1 May 2010 to 1 May 2012. They did so for a variety of There are alternative measures of the number of reasons including redundancy, retirement, resignation, people in income deprivation. The Department for Work transfer and early exit. and Pensions publishes estimates of the number of Of these, 466 were made redundant, seven on a working-age adults falling below various thresholds of compulsory basis. All others left on a voluntary basis. contemporary median income for the United Kingdom, Additionally, 765 staff were made redundant from based on the Family Resources Survey, but these are not the Government Offices for the Regions, 192 were employed available at local authority level. Please see Table 5.3tr by the Department. Of those 765 staff that were made in the publication “Households Below Average redundant, 154 were made redundant on a compulsory Income—An analysis of the income distribution 1994/ basis, 58 of which were employed by the Department. 95-2009/10 May 2011” which is available at the following link: As part of the spending review settlement, the DCLG Group is making a collective 33% real terms saving http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/hbai/hbai2010/ index.php?page=contents against its running costs by 2014-15. This equates to savings of over £200 million by 2014-15. In addition, Private Rented Housing the Department will save a further £190 million from the closure of the Government Offices for the Regions, taking overall savings on administrative running costs Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for to 42% across the DCLG Group by 2014-15. These Communities and Local Government what the total savings reflect the coalition Government’s agenda of amount spent by local authorities on the enforcement decentralisation, ending the micromanagement of local of housing quality standards in the private rented government, the abolition of regional government, and sector was since May 2010. [110465] the broader need to tackle the deficit left by the last Administration. Andrew Stunell: This information is not held centrally.

Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State Right to Buy Scheme for Communities and Local Government if he will take steps to encourage closer partnerships between private Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for landlords and local authorities. [110685] Communities and Local Government whether it is his policy that like-for-like replacements under Right to Andrew Stunell: Many local authorities already do Buy will be (a) provided in the local area, (b) at the excellent work in partnership with private landlords same rent levels and (c) with the same number of where that helps to address local priorities. They do this bedrooms. [110406] 17W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 18W

Grant Shapps: For the first time ever, this Government http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ has committed to re-invest the additional receipts from housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/localauthorityhousing/ right to buy sales in new affordable rented housing. Our dataforms/hssabpsa1011/bpsadatareturns1011/ aim is, across the country as a whole, to deliver a new home for each additional home sold under the reinvigorated Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for right to buy. We are inviting local authorities with an Communities and Local Government (1) how many appetite to replace homes sold under the right to buy to households with children were on the social housing enter into an agreement with us that allows them to waiting list in each of the last three years; and how retain and spend the additional funds on replacement many children there were in households on that waiting homes for affordable rent. It will be up to individual list in each of those years; [110384] local authorities to decide on the appropriate replacement (2) how many households with at least one pregnant housing mix to meet the needs of their area. member were on the social housing waiting list in each Any receipts not used locally will be pooled and of the last three years. [110418] re-invested in new affordable housing by the Homes and Communities Agency (in London, the Greater London Andrew Stunell: The Department collects data from Authority) to provide homes across England—local local authorities on the number of households on their authorities will be able to bid for this money as well. waiting lists for social housing and the number of bedrooms required. This data is published each year in the Housing Strategy Statistical Appendix returns available Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for from Communities and Local Government with reference to the Oral Answer of 12 March 2012, Official Report, http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/localauthorityhousing/ column 14, to the hon. Member for Reading East, on dataforms/ Right to Buy, how his Department arrived at the Local authorities will maintain their own records on estimate of 100,000 sales and replacements. [110407] the types of households waiting for social housing but the Department does not centrally collate this information. Grant Shapps: This Government wants as many tenants as possible to meet their aspirations to become home Social Rented Housing: Veterans owners. We have forecast the additional and total Right to Buy sales using the Department’s Affordability Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Model—an econometric model developed by academics Communities and Local Government when he plans to at Reading University. These forecasts are set out in the bring forward proposals to ensure local authorities Right to Buy impact assessment which was published prioritise the needs of armed forces veterans with on 12 March, available at: regard to social housing. [110031] http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/housing/ rightobuyia Grant Shapps: We have finished consulting on plans to change the law, by regulation, so that former service Social Rented Housing personnel with urgent housing needs are always given high priority on waiting lists, and that personnel who move from base to base do not lose their qualification Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for rights. Communities and Local Government how many social We have also consulted on new draft statutory social homes were vacant for a period of more than six allocations guidance for local councils, setting out how months in each local authority area in 2011. [110383] their allocation schemes can give priority to current or ex-service personnel, including through the use of local Andrew Stunell: Figures on housing association-owned preference criteria and local lettings policies. social rented homes which are long-term vacant in each The responses to consultation were positive; we aim local authority district area are published on the to issue the final guidance shortly and will lay the Department for Communities and Local Government regulations as soon as possible thereafter. website in live table 615, available at the following link. Data on the duration of vacancy for social rented Sustainable Communities Act 2007 housing association homes in each local authority area are not collected centrally, so estimates for how many Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State are long-term vacant are produced using data on whether for Communities and Local Government when he expects each vacant dwelling is available for immediate letting to introduce regulations providing for the involvement as a proxy measure. rights of people under the Sustainable Communities http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ Act 2007; and if he will make a statement. [108752] housingstatistics/housingstatisticsbv/stockincludingvacants/ livetables/ Greg Clark [holding answer 22 May 2012]: We are Figures on social rented homes owned by each local finalising the regulations under the Sustainable authority which are vacant, split by duration of vacancy, Communities Act 2007 and will lay them in Parliament are published on the Department for Communities and shortly. Local Government website in the Business Plan Statistical Appendix, available at the following link. Combining Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for the figures in columns BA (vacant for between six and Communities and Local Government when he plans to 12 months) and BI (vacant for over 12 months) will give bring forward regulations arising from the Sustainable the total numbers vacant for at least six months. Communities Act 2007. [108840] 19W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 20W

Greg Clark: We are finalising the regulations under Robert Neill: Our planning reforms are putting the Sustainable Communities Act 2007 and will lay unprecedented power in the hands of communities to them in Parliament shortly. shape the places in which they live. These reforms make the local plan, produced by local people, the key to Joan Walley: To ask the Secretary of State for delivering sustainable development that reflects the vision Communities and Local Government when he plans to and aspirations of local communities. In those specific bring forward regulations under the Sustainable instances where local planning authorities have previously Communities Act 2007. [109144] refused permission within the past two years for two or more substantially similar proposals on the same site, Greg Clark: We are finalising the regulations under or a substantially similar proposal had been rejected on the Sustainable Communities Act 2007 and will lay appeal, they have powers to decline to determine them in Parliament shortly. applications. Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on what date he expects to lay regulations under the Sustainable CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT Communities Act 2007. [109324] Arts Greg Clark: We are finalising the regulations under Grahame M. Morris: To ask the Secretary of State the Sustainable Communities Act 2007 and will lay for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans he them in Parliament shortly. has to support the creative industries in the north-east. Third Sector [109733] Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Sport (DCMS) does not provide direct support to the Communities and Local Government what guidance creative industries in individual regions, however, we his Department has issued to local authorities on how have established the Creative Industries Council as a to support voluntary and charitable organisations applying joint forum between the creative industries and government for local authority funding; and if he will make a to focus on areas where there are barriers to growth statement. [110741] facing the sector such as access to finance, skills and growth. Andrew Stunell: The Department has not issued any specific guidance in this area. Creative England was established in October 2011 with the core purpose of supporting the sustainable The Best Value guidance for local authorities, published growth of independent creative businesses, and the talent in September 2011, sets out some reasonable expectations that feeds them, in every part of England outside London. of the way authorities should work with voluntary and In London, the Mayor has responsibilities for promoting community groups and small businesses when facing economic development and supporting growth in the difficult funding decisions. creative industries. The Localism Act now means local authorities have In addition, in Budget 2012, the Chancellor of the greater power, independence and flexibility, and with Exchequer, my right hon. Friend the Member for Tatton this, local Compacts are becoming more important as a (Mr Osborne), announced the introduction of three basis for improving the relationship between local authorities new tax reliefs for high end TV, video games and and the voluntary sector. Local Compact partnerships animation, building on the success of the film tax relief. are key to ensuring organisations are better able to influence and deliver services which will have the most Grahame M. Morris: To ask the Secretary of State positive impact within their community. for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what estimate he has made of the number of people Wind Power employed in the creative industries in the north-east in each of the last five years; [109736] Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) what assessment he has made of the contribution Communities and Local Government whether it is his of the creative industries to the economy in the policy that a region that has achieved its renewable north-east. [109737] energy targets will be able to refuse applications for onshore wind farms. [110587] Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) does not currently produce regional Robert Neill: Planning law requires that applications data for creative industries estimates, either for employment for planning permission must be determined in accordance or for gross value added (GVA). DCMS is currently with the development plan, unless material considerations engaged in a project with partners to update the data indicate otherwise. and information provided on the creative industries. Wind Power: Lancaster DCMS does, however, provide regional data on creative industries for the number of enterprises (head offices) David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for and local units (workplaces) on a consistent basis for Communities and Local Government what steps he is the last three years. taking to prevent repeat planning applications for land- This has been published on the DCMS website and based windfarms which have previously been rejected in can be found by clicking on the ‘Key findings and table’ the Lancaster area; and if he will make a statement. documents located on the following webpage: [109312] http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8682.aspx 21W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 22W

Arts: East of England In London the mayor has responsibilities for promoting economic development and supporting growth in the Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Creative Industries. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans he has In addition, in Budget 2012 the Chancellor of the to support the creative industries in the Eastern region. Exchequer announced the introduction of three new [109949] tax reliefs for High end TV,Video Games and animation, building on the success of the Film tax Relief. Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport does not provide direct support to the creative Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for industries in individual regions however we have established Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what estimate the Creative Industries Council as a joint forum between he has made of the number of people employed in the the creative industries and government to focus on creative industries in London; [110119] areas where there are barriers to growth facing the (2) what estimate he has made of the contribution of sector such as access to finance, skills, and growth. the creative industries to the economy in London. Creative England was established in October 2011 [110120] with the core purpose of supporting the sustainable growth of independent creative businesses, and the talent Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and that feeds them, in every part of England outside London. Sport (DCMS) does not currently produce regional In London the Mayor has responsibilities for promoting data for Creative Industries estimates, either for employment economic development and supporting growth in the or for gross value added (GVA). creative industries. DCMS does, however, provide regional data on Creative In addition, in Budget 2012 the Chancellor of the Industries for the number of enterprises (head offices) Exchequer announced the introduction of three new and local units (workplaces) on a consistent basis for tax reliefs for high end TV, video games and animation, the last three years. building on the success of the film tax relief. This has been published on the DCMS website and Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for can be found by clicking on the ’Key findings and table’ Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what estimate documents located on the following webpage: he has made of the number of people employed in the http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8682.aspx creative industries in the Eastern region; [109950] (2) what assessment he has made of the contribution Arts: Morecambe of the creative industries to the economy in the Eastern region. [109951] David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what funding his Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and Department has provided for the creative arts in the Sport (DCMS) does not currently produce regional west end district of Morecambe in the last 18 months. data for creative industries estimates, either for employment [109314] or for gross value added (GVA). DCMS does, however, provide regional data on creative Mr Vaizey: The Department does not provide direct industries for the number of enterprises (head offices) funding for the arts. The Government’s funding of the and local units (workplaces) on a consistent basis for arts is the responsibility of Arts Council England which the last three years. makes its decisions independently of Ministers. This has been published on the DCMS website and However, Arts Council England has provided the can be found by clicking on the ’Key findings and table’ following information about its funding for organisations documents located on the following webpage: in the west end district of Morecambe, as identified by http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8682.aspx their provided postcodes, over the last 18 months.

Arts: Greater London Funding programme Funding amount (£) Grants for the arts 197,864 Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Managed funds 22,966 Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans he has Regularly funded organisations 126,695 to provide support for the creative industries in Total 347,525 London. [110118]

Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and Arts: South East Sport does not provide direct support to the creative industries in individual regions however we have established Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for the Creative Industries Council as a joint forum between Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans he has the creative industries and. Government to focus on to provide support for the creative industries in the areas where there are barriers to growth facing the South East. [110040] sector such as access to finance, skills, and growth. Creative England was established in October 2011 Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and with the core purpose of supporting the sustainable Sport does not provide direct support to the creative growth of independent creative businesses, and the talent industries in individual regions however we have established that feeds them, in every part of England outside London. the Creative Industries Council as a joint forum between 23W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 24W the creative industries and government to focus on Broadband Delivery UK areas where there are barriers to growth facing the sector such as access to finance, skills, and growth. Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Creative England was established in October 2011 Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps Broadband with the core purpose of supporting the sustainable Delivery UK is taking as part of the Government’s growth of independent creative businesses, and the talent policy of increasing small business procurement. that feeds them, in every part of England outside London. [109453] In London the Mayor has responsibilities for promoting economic development and supporting growth in the Mr Vaizey: Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) has creative industries. provided local authorities with a small and medium enterprise (SME) strategy which sets out an approach In addition, in Budget 2012 the Chancellor of the to maximise the opportunities for SMEs to benefit from Exchequer announced the introduction of three new the public sector intervention in the broadband marketplace, tax reliefs for high end TV, video games and animation, and to help maximise benefit to the local economy. building on the success of the film tax relief. Local bodies will be able to promote the capability of local SMEs, and BDUK is committed to ensuring that Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for SMEs are able to play a full role in the delivery of Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what broadband services at a local level. assessment he has made of the contribution of the creative industries to the economy in the South East; Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for [110041] Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport pursuant to the (2) what estimate he has made of the number of answer of 15 May 2012, Official Report, column 60W, people employed in the creative industries in the South on broadband, what the dates were of the correspondence East. [110042] between Newcastle city council and Broadband Delivery UK. [109454] Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and Mr Vaizey: Dates of meetings and e-mails to and Sport (DCMS) does not currently produce regional from Broadband UK and Newcastle city council data for Creative Industries estimates, either for employment surrounding their bid to become a super-connected city, or for gross value added (GVA). DCMS is currently feedback on their bid and subsequent support to achieve engaged in a project with partners to update the data super-connected city status, are set out in the table. and information provided on the creative industries. E-mails have primarily related to BDUK and Newcastle DCMS does, however, provide regional data on creative city council jointly making progress on the Local Broadband industries for the number of enterprises (head offices) Plan and Newcastle working towards identifying match and local units (workplaces) on a consistent basis for funding. the last three years. The dates of telephone calls are not recorded. This has been published on the DCMS website and Dates of meetings can be found by clicking on the ’Key findings and table’ 28 March 2012 documents located on the following webpage: 24 April 2012 http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8682.aspx Dates of e-mails 14 December 2011 Blue Plaques 11 January 2012 12 January 2012 David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for 29 February 2012 Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what criteria are 22 March 2012 used to determine the (a) subject and (b) location of 27 March 2012 blue plaques. [109825] 2 April 2012 3 April 2012 John Penrose: I have asked the chief executive of 4 April 2012 English Heritage to write directly to my hon. Friend 13 April 2012 with this information. 17 April 2012 A copy of the letter will be placed in the Libraries of 23 April 2012 both Houses. 24 April 2012 1 May 2012 Broadband 2 May 2012 4 May 2012 Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, 10 May 2012 Olympics, Media and Sport what recent discussions he 23 May 2012 has had with BT about improving broadband speeds for Broadband: Warrington businesses; and if he will make a statement. [110101] Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Vaizey: As the improvement of broadband speeds Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will make an is one of the Government’s priorities, the Secretary of assessment of the effect on businesses of slow State has regular discussions on this matter with a broadband speeds in Warrington; and if he will make a number of companies, including BT. statement. [110102] 25W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 26W

Mr Vaizey: There is growing evidence that broadband Mr Vaizey: In general, businesses including soletraders, connectivity and higher broadband speeds improve are assumed to be free to enter into whatever contracts economic growth and productivity, which is why the they agree between themselves. Contracts form part of Government is investing £680 million in the lifetime of normal commercial practice and it is up to the partners this Parliament with the aim that the UK should have to the contract to agree on what it contains, including the best superfast broadband network in Europe by 2015. assignment of copyright or liability provisions. Charitable Donations Correspondence

Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Olympics, Media and Sport whether he has undertaken Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many letters an impact assessment on the potential effect that the to Ministers in his Department were (a) not answered, proposed charity tax relief cap on philanthropy will (b) not answered within six months and (c) not have on (a) museums and galleries, (b) ballet and answered within three months in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) dance schools, (c) theatres and concert halls and (d) 2011-12; how many such letters were from hon. drama schools in each region. [109741] Members; and if he will make a statement. [109430]

Mr Vaizey: No. John Penrose: The Cabinet Office, on an annual basis, publishes a report to Parliament on the performance of Claims Management Companies Departments in replying to Members/Peers correspondence. The hon. Gentleman’s researchers can find the most Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, recent statistics in the ministerial written statement, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what recent discussions published on 15 March 2012, Official Report, columns his Department has had with (a) Ofcom and (b) 30-33WS. Reports for earlier years are available in the independent broadcasters on the number and tone of Library of the House. The responses to other television advertisements for the services offered by correspondence to Ministers in this Department are not claims management companies; [109699] monitored in the way requested. (2) what recent representations his Department has Debts Written Off received from consumer representative organisations on the number and tone of television advertisements Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, for the services offered by claims management Olympics, Media and Sport how much bad debt was companies. [109700] written off by his Department in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if he will make a statement. [110220] Mr Vaizey: I have had no discussions with (a) Ofcom or (b) independent broadcasters on the number and John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media tone of television advertisements for the services offered and Sport had no bad debt write offs in 2010-11. The by claims management companies. Neither have I received value of write offs in 2011-12 was £2,200. These all any representations from consumer representative related to recovery of grants under a discontinued organisations about this matter. scheme and had been discounted as doubtful debts in Complaints earlier years. Disclosure of Information Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many complaints about Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for the work of his Department and each of its agencies Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his and non-departmental public bodies were received in Department spent on the updating of published data in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if he will make a line with the Government’s transparency agenda in statement. [108943] each month since September 2011. [110716]

John Penrose: The majority of correspondence received John Penrose: Work to update and publish information by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) for the various strands of transparency reporting is concerns issues relating to the work of the Department, integrated with other work of the Department’s finance, its agencies and non-departmental public bodies. According procurement, public bodies and communications teams. to the information held by the Department, there were The tasks undertaken form a small part of each member 36 cases specifically recorded as a complaint in 2010-11 of staff time and it is not practical to maintain detailed and seven cases recorded in 2011-12. costings for this work. Copyright: Journalism Empty Property

John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether he has Olympics, Media and Sport if he will list the empty or made an assessment of the difficulties experienced by largely empty buildings owned by his Department; and (a) freelance journalists and (b) other self-employed if he will make a statement. [110839] people in being offered contracts stipulating that their copyright should be assigned to the employing body John Penrose: The Department does not own any and requiring the individual to accept full liability for buildings, they are all leased. The properties held in the what is published. [110625] name of the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, 27W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 28W

Media and Sport, my right hon. Friend the Member for which represent these organisations, to identify the impact South West Surrey (Mr Hunt), are owned by the Crown. of this change and respond directly to HM Revenue and Custom’s consultation. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Museums that are eligible for support through the Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many HMRC VAT Refund Scheme for National Museums buildings owned by his Department and the bodies for and Galleries are able to recover VAT paid on building which he is responsible have been empty for more than alterations. two years; and if he will make a statement. [110857] Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, John Penrose: The Department for Culture Media Olympics, Media and Sport whether his Department and Sport (DCMS) does not own any properties, they has estimated the number of arts organisations located are all leased. in listed buildings likely to vacate that property due to DCMS does not hold this information for its arm’s the planned rise in VAT on alterations and repairs to length bodies. Accordingly, I have asked their chief listed buildings in the next three years. [109705] executives to respond to the hon. Member. Copies of the replies will be placed in the Libraries of Mr Vaizey: No. both Houses. Local Broadcasting: Wales Fraud Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what discussions Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, he has had with (a) the Minister for Education and Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he has made Skills and (b) other Ministers in the Welsh Government of the level of (a) procurement and (b) other fraud on local television in Wales and Welsh language provision affecting his Department’s spending in (i) 2010-11 and on such channels in the last 12 months. [109238] (ii) 2011-12; and if he will make a statement. [110179] Mr Vaizey: The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, John Penrose: In line with other Government Media and Sport, my right hon. Friend the Member for Departments, the Department for Culture, Media and South West Surrey (Mr Hunt), met the First Minister of Sport (DCMS) does not make an estimate of the level the Welsh Government the right hon. Carwyn Jones of (a) procurement and (b) other fraud affecting AM, on 6 July 2011 to discuss general broadcasting Departmental spend. Identified fraud is published on issues, including local TV, and visited Newport on our website in the quarterly data summary: 26 August 2011 to meet a broad range of stakeholders www.culture.gov.uk/images/publications/DCMS_QDS to discuss local TV in particular. Throughout the local _Apr2012.pdf TV policy development process, the Department consulted The Cabinet Office will be providing support and the Welsh Government. While our new local TV framework guidance to all Departments moving forward on how to does not mandate Welsh language programming, it undertake proactive exercises in order to quantify fraud does require the licensed local TV services to cater for and error that was previously unknown, and DCMS the tastes, interests and needs of the people living and will work with them, as appropriate, on this important working in the locality. topic. Mobile Phones Listed Buildings Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what assessment Olympics, Media and Sport how many listed buildings he has made of the deadline by which Everything there are in each region. [109711] Everywhere, once it has divested its 1800 MHz spectrum, must make it available for use by a new owner; and if he John Penrose: The hon. Gentleman’s researchers can will place any such assessment in the Library; [109706] find this information on English Heritage’s National (2) what recent discussions he has had with the Heritage List for England at European Commission about the deadline by which http://list.english-heritage.org.uk Everything Everywhere, once it has divested its 1800 MHz spectrum, must make it available for use by a new Listed Buildings: VAT owner. [109707]

Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Mr Vaizey: I have made no assessment of these issues Olympics, Media and Sport whether he has undertaken and I have not had discussions with the European an impact assessment on the potential effect of the Commission on this matter. planned rise in VAT on alterations and repairs to listed The deadline for clearing the spectrum is contained buildings on (a) theatres, (b) galleries, (c) museums in a set of commitments given by Deutsche Telekom and (d) other arts organisations located in listed and France Telecom to the European Commission as buildings. [109612] part of the European Commission’s assessment of the T-Mobile/Orange merger which created Everything John Penrose: DCMS has not made an impact assessment Everywhere. The European Commission had jurisdiction of the potential effect of the planned rise in VAT on to consider that merger (pursuant to the EC Merger alterations to listed buildings for these organisations, Regulation), and as such it was the European Commission’s but has instead encouraged its arms’ length bodies decision to accept the commitments, including the deadline. 29W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 30W

The commitments require that by 30 September 2013 public bodies and executive agencies workforce to a at the latest 2x10 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum is mutual in (a) 2011-12 and (b) 2012-13; and if he will cleared and available for use by someone other than make a statement. [110200] Everything Everywhere and that by 30 September 2015 a further 2x5 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum is to be John Penrose: No staff within the Department for similarly cleared and made available to the same party. Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) or its agency, The Royal Parks have or are due to transfer to a mutual in John Glen: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, 2011-12 and 2012-13. Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what assessment he has DCMS does not hold this information for its arm’s made of the effect of Ofcom’s decision to permit length bodies. Accordingly, I have asked their chief Everything Everywhere to offer 4G service in advance executives to respond to the hon. Member. of other mobile network operators on (a) competition and (b) prices for the consumer in the mobile network Copies of the replies will be placed in the Libraries of market; [110677] both Houses. (2) what assessment he has made of whether (a) the sale of 1800 MHz spectrum by Everything Everywhere National Lottery and (b) any amendment to Everything Everywhere’s spectrum licence will have implications for the conduct Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for of the 4G spectrum auction. [110679] Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what national lottery grant funding has been given in each parliamentary Mr Vaizey: I have made no assessment of these issues. constituency in each of the last two years. [109690] Ofcom, the independent spectrum regulator, has undertaken a consultation on whether to permit a variance John Penrose: The hon. Gentleman’s researchers can to Everything Everywhere’s license at 1800 MHz to find this information on the Department for Culture, allow 4G services, but has yet to announce its final Media and Sport’s Lottery Grants Database at: decision on this matter. www.lottery.culture.gov.uk

John Glen: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Olympics, Media and Sport when he anticipates that Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the total 4G network provision will be opened to additional value of Lottery ticket sales in the Leicester South providers. [110678] constituency (a) has been since the National Lottery began and (b) was in each of the last two years. Mr Vaizey: Ofcom, the independent spectrum regulator, [109697] anticipates that the auction process for the 4G spectrum will begin at the end of 2012 and that successful bidders John Penrose: The National Lottery operator, Camelot, could start deploying networks before the end of 2013. collects regional sales data based on their sales regions, The auction process is open to all including new market which do not map to parliamentary constituency areas entrants. and does not include a breakdown of online ticket sales. These sales regions are not comparable with those used Museums and Galleries: Lancaster for the location of lottery grants awarded on the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Lottery David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Grants Database, so this information is not available. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what funding his For a more detailed examination of this issue the hon. Department has provided for museums in the Lancaster Gentleman may like to read my blog at: area in the last 12 months. [109315] http://blogs.culture.gov.uk/main/2012/01/scandals_weary_old _nonsense_an.html Mr Vaizey: There are currently no museums in the Lancaster area receiving funding from this Department. Olympic Games 2012 The Arts Council and the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) did not provide funding to Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for museums in the Lancaster area in the last 12 months. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps he has The MLA’s museum functions were absorbed by the taken to ensure that products from illegal Israeli Arts Council in October 2011. settlements are not purchased by (a) his Department However, Helmshore Mill and Queen Street Mill and (b) the London Organising Committee for the museums in the Lancaster area benefited from renaissance Olympic and Paralympic Games, whether directly or museum development funding, which was part of the through third parties. [109478] £300,000 awarded to the north-west for museum development support by MLA in 2011-12. John Penrose: We aim to ensure that all goods are ethically sourced but, within this, do not specifically Mutual Societies monitor whether we are purchasing these particular products. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he has made and Paralympic Games are a private organisation operating of the number of full-time equivalent staff who will independently of Government, and, therefore, the transfer from his Department, its non-departmental Department is unable to respond on their behalf. 31W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 32W

Mr Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State functions transferred from the Department for Business, for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what his strategy Innovation and Skills as from 2011-12, which have is to make best use of the opportunity afforded by the increased this Department’s cost base. large number of sports ministers from other countries visiting London for the 2012 Olympic Games. [109975] £ million

Hugh Robertson: The 2012 Olympic and Paralympic 2009-10 49.908 games provide a unique opportunity to further strengthen 2010-11 46.515 the UKs extensive international partnerships through 2011-12 (expected) 53.397 sport, increase our influence in international sports and Sources: 2009-10 and 2010-11: DCMS annual report and accounts—2010-11 to share knowledge and experience of hosting the games (net outturn against final administration budget figures in Table 3.2 with future and prospective host nations. A key part of on page 85, less depreciation and amortisation figures in Table 11 on our engagement during the games will be the sixth page 90) Commonwealth Sport Ministers Meeting which the http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8309.aspx UK is hosting and which I will chair. The meeting will 2011-12: current anticipated final out-turn—subject to finalisation of take place at Banqueting House on the 25 July. figures and audit. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport is also Pay working closely with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and UK Trade and Investment to strengthen Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for opportunities for global trade and exports from UK Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many staff business. Together with VisitBritain, we are using sport working for his Department, its executive agencies and to boost inward tourism from priority markets through non-departmental public bodies are employed through the GREAT campaign. Discussions with visiting Ministers off-payroll engagements costing less than £58,200 per will support that work. annum; and if he will make a statement. [110816]

Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether his and Sport (DCM5) and its agency, The Royal Parks Department is aware of claims that professional (TRP), does not employ anyone within the Department musicians have been asked to perform for free at the through off-payroll engagements except for agency staff. Olympic village during the London 2012 Olympics; DCMS currently employ 15 agency staff at a rate and what assessment it has made of whether any oral equivalent to less than £58,200 per annum and TRP request would breach the Principles of Co-operation currently employ five agency staff at a rate equivalent to agreement the London Organising Committee of the less than £58,200 per annum. Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) has made DCMS does not hold this information for its executive with the TUC; and whether it has had any discussions agencies or arm’s length bodies. Accordingly, I have with LOCOG about this matter. [110129] asked their chief executives to write directly to the hon. Member with this information. Hugh Robertson: We have made no assessment or had any discussions with LOCOG on this matter, for which A copy of the letters will be placed in the Libraries of they are completely responsible. As well as agreeing to a both Houses. set of Principles of Co-operation with the Trade Union Congress, LOCOG has a long-standing understanding Public Lending Right with the Musicians’ Union that it would not pay volunteers (such as volunteer cast performers or amateur musicians) Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for or headline acts, but that all other professional musicians Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many authors would be paid. claimed through the Registrar of the Public Lending Right in the latest period for which figures are available. Operating Costs [109970] Mr Vaizey: In 2010-11, 23,366 authors received a Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Public Lending Right (PLR) payment. Full details about Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much was the distribution of payments to authors can be found in spent on the administration of his Department in (a) the PLR’s Annual Report and Accounts 2010-11, available 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011-12. [109832] in the House Library.

John Penrose: The following amounts were spent on Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for the Department’s administration for the financial years Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he in question. The figures do not include depreciation and has made of the (a) number of and (b) likely cost of impairment of departmental assets. redundancies, should the Registrar of the Public Lending The Department intends to reduce its inflation-adjusted Right be abolished. [109971] administration costs (less depreciation) by 50% from the start of the spending review period in 2010-11 to the Mr Vaizey: Decisions about staffing have not yet end of the period in 2014-15. The increase in 2011-12 been taken, as these will be for the organisation that reflects spend required to deliver the broadband project takes over the Public Lending Right (PLR) functions and the Olympic and Paralympics Games, both of and will depend on how it chooses to fulfil those functions. which will decline in future years. It also includes spend The Department is running a public consultation about on information economy, broadband and spectrum policy the future administration of the scheme, which is open 33W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 34W until 30 July 2012, and decisions about the transfer of Annual traffic estimates are produced for 11 different functions to another body are subject to that consultation. vehicle types. Some agricultural vehicles are included within these broader categories. Agricultural machinery Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for (other than tractors and mechanical diggers), such as Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether the combine harvesters, are excluded from traffic estimates. Government’s preferred option for the future of the Annual estimates for 2011 will be published on 28 Public Lending Right scheme will result in jobs being June 2012. Current 2010 Annual estimates are available transferred from Teesside to British Library offices in on the Department for Transport website here: London. [110001] http://www.dft.gov.uk/statistics/releases/traffic-estimates- 2010-revised/ Mr Vaizey: Part of the basis of the Government’s preferred option for the future of the Public Lending Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for Right scheme is that it would not result in jobs being Transport how many spot checks the Vehicle and transferred from Teesside to London. Operator Services Agency carried out on agricultural vehicles in each of the last five years. [109678] Publications Mike Penning: Vehicle and Operator Services Agency Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for carried out the following number of checks on agricultural Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many vehicles: publications have been issued by his Department since May 2010. [109814] Drivers hours and Financial year Mechanical checks weighing checks

John Penrose: The hon. Gentleman’s researchers can 2007-08 504 89 find details of all DCMS publications since May 2010 2008-09 641 113 at: 2009-10 683 83 http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/default.aspx 2010-11 628 49 2011-12 307 52 Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many (a) circulars and (b) consultation documents were issued Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for by his Department in each of the last two years. Transport how many oil spillages caused by agricultural vehicles were cleared in the last year for [110504] which figures are available; and by whom. [109679] John Penrose: The hon. Gentleman’s researchers can find the information on consultations at: Mr Paice: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. http://www.culture.gov.uk/consultations/default.aspx Data on numbers of oil spills caused by agricultural The DCMS newsletter, the review, is issued every vehicles which were cleared is not held centrally by this fortnight. department. Tourism Airlines and Tour Operators

Naomi Long: To ask the Secretary of State for Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether tourism what research her Department has undertaken into from England, Scotland and Wales to Northern consumer awareness of the consequences and protections Ireland is counted as outbound tourism. [109905] for consumers when airline or tour operator businesses fail. [110067] John Penrose: Tourism from England, Scotland and Wales to Northern Ireland is not counted as outbound Mrs Villiers: The Civil Aviation Authority is currently tourism. trialling questions on passenger views on financial protection in the event of tour operator failure in the CAA Passenger Survey, with a view to including questions in a full survey over the summer. TRANSPORT In their report on their inquiry into Reform of the Agricultural Vehicles Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing Scheme, the Transport Select Committee recommended that the Department should conduct research into the views and opinions of Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for passengers regarding financial protection. We will consider Transport (1) what the average road distance travelled how best to address this recommendation in our reply by agricultural vehicles per annum was in each of the to the committee. last 10 years; [109677] (2) what estimate her Department has made of the Bus Services number of miles travelled on public roads by agricultural vehicles in 2011. [109680] Mr Hepburn: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what estimate she has made of the projected payments Mike Penning: Estimates for vehicle miles travelled by of the bus service operator’s grant to be made to each agricultural vehicles are not available. operator in each year from 2011-12 to 2014-15; [110146] 35W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 36W

(2) what payments of bus service operator’s grant reduced the size of the step between peak and off-peak, were made to each operator in (a) Jarrow constituency, which was consistent with Sir Roy McNulty’s (b) South Tyneside, (c) the North East and (d) the recommendations. UK in each of the last five years. [110147] Complaints Norman Baker: The Department does not hold information on projected future payments of Bus Service Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Operators Grant. how many complaints about the work of her Department The following links provide information on payments and each of its agencies and non-departmental public made to individual operators (in alphabetical order) up bodies were received in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; to (i) 31 March 2010 and (ii) 31 March 2011. and if she will make a statement. [108950] http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110504135837/ http:/www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/regional/buses/busgrants/bsog/ Norman Baker: The following complaints were recorded 661224 in the last three years. These were complaints received http://assets.dft.gov.uk/publications/bsog-grants-paid-to- and handled through the formal complaints mechanisms: 20120331/bsog-grants-paid-2011.pdf 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 Bus Services: Morecambe DfT(C) 12 16 13 David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for DSA 11516 11822 10080 Transport what steps she has taken to increase funding DVLA 11594 12121 12107 for bus services and to increase the number of routes in GCDA Not known 0 5 the Morecambe Heysham area. [109308] HA 1135 1038 864 MCA 74 52 30 Norman Baker: As set out in the recent publication VCA1668 ’Green Light for Better Buses’, available in the Library VOSA 360 1022 1068 of the House, the Government has continued to support NDPBs Not known Not known 6 local bus services with significant funding, through Total 24703 26077 24181 concessionary travel reimbursement and bus service operators grant. In addition, we have recently provided Formal complaints about the work of NDPBs were a further £115 million to encourage bus usage: £70 not centrally recorded in earlier years and obtaining million for Better Bus Areas; £30 million for green this information would incur a disproportionate cost. buses; and £15 million for smart ticketing. We have also made available around £200 million for local major bus Consultants infrastructure improvements. 35 of the 39 successful bidders for round one of the £560 million Local Sustainable Transport Fund included bus-related elements. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much her Department spent on external consultants, including management consultants, in (a) Bus Services: Rural Areas 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if she will make a statement. [107505] Ian Paisley: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether she has any plans to encourage an increase the Norman Baker: The Department for Transport and number of bus stops in villages and hamlets. [110160] its seven Executive Agencies spent the following amounts on external consultants, including management consultants: Norman Baker: The placement of bus stops in England is at the discretion of bus operators and local authorities. £ It is not a matter for central Government. For some communities, particularly in the most sparsely populated 2010/11 12,333,227 rural areas, traditional bus services and stops are not 2011/12 7,408,028 always a viable option. The Government has recently provided a total of £20 million to 76 local authorities in By way of further comparison, the figure for consultancy England across two rounds of the Supporting Community in DfT published in the annual Public Sector Procurement Transport Fund. This is supporting the establishment Expenditure Survey (PSPES) for 2009-10 was £115,101,757. and development of more community transport links, This was however based on a very different classification run by not-for-profit organisations. of consultancy work and if we were to re-publish this on the same basis that we use now the figure would be Chiltern Railway Line £24,841,258.

Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Correspondence Transport if she will review the Chiltern Railways franchise; and if she will make a statement. [109569] Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many letters to Ministers in her Department were Mrs Villiers: In September 2011 Chiltern introduced (a) not answered, (b) not answered within six months a simplified structure for anytime, off-peak and super and (c) not answered within three months in (i) 2010-11 off-peak fares between London Marylebone and stations and (ii) 2011-12; how many such letters were from hon. north of Banbury to Birmingham. The new structure Members; and if she will make a statement. [109445] 37W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 38W

Norman Baker: I regret that the information requested Mike Penning: As outlined in the revised criteria on is not held in the format requested and can only be trust port sales, published by the Department of Transport provided at disproportionate cost. in August 2011 (15 September 2011, Official Report, The Cabinet Office, on an annual basis, publishes a columns 65-66WS), the Secretary of State will not report to Parliament on the performance of departments approve an application for the sale of a trust port under in replying to Members correspondence. The report for the Ports Act 1991 unless the sale is considered likely to 2011 was published on 15 March 2012, Official Report, deliver an enduring and significant level of community columns 30-33WS. Reports for earlier years are available participation in the port. in the Library of the House. Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Ministers aim to answer correspondence as expediently whether her Department will ensure the privatisation of as possible. Dover Port will include a clawback mechanism to ensure that any undervaluation of the Port is recouped by the Disclosure of Information winning buyer. [109935]

Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Mike Penning: The Minister of State currently has an how much her Department spent on the updating of application under the Ports Act concerning Dover Port published data in line with the Government’s transparency before her, and it would not be appropriate to comment agenda in each month since September 2011. [110722] on such matters ahead of that quasi-judicial decision being taken. Norman Baker: It is not possible to provide an accurate estimate as this work typically involves a small proportion Driving Under Influence of the time of a number of staff across various business areas and is dealt with in the normal course of business. Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what the timescale is for implementation of Dover Port proposed changes to the drink drive rehabilitation scheme. [108202] Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what impact assessment her Department Mike Penning: The Drink Drive Rehabilitation Scheme carried out on the privatisation of Dover Port; and (DDRS) arrangements have been defined and are subject whether that assessment considered the potential effect to clearance from the relevant regulatory processes. of privatisation on ferry berth tariffs. [109750] We anticipate that the new arrangements will be introduced in March 2013. Mike Penning: Any proposal for a sale of the trust Driving: Licensing port of Dover would be assessed against the criteria published in August 2011 (15 September 2011, Official Report, columns 65-66WS). These include fair competition, Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for whereby the Secretary of State will not approve an Transport what estimate she has made of the annual application that is likely to deliver an ownership model cost to (a) her Department and (b) driving licence which results in unsatisfactory levels of competition in holders of introducing the EU third directive on the relevant sector. driving licences in each of the next five years. [110693]

Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Mike Penning: The following table provides the estimated Transport how much revenue her Department costs of introducing the EU third directive on driving estimates the privatisation of Dover port will raise for licences in each of the next five years: the public purse. [109751] Forecast operating costs (£ Mike Penning: The port of Dover have yet to submit million) their revised proposal and any proceeds realisable would 2013-14 1.7 depend on the structure and nature of any scheme 2014-15 1.4 which they submit. In the event that a sale was agreed, 2015-16 1.1 the estimate of revenues receivable would depend upon 2016-17 1.1 the circumstances at the time. The Secretary of State 2017-18 1.1 will not approve an application unless the sale is considered likely to represent good value for money, having regard Over the two years 2011-12 to 2012-13 there were not only to Exchequer proceeds and market conditions, also £6.3 million development costs, relating to the but also to other benefits including those to the community third directive. and the wider economy. The DVLA is currently undertaking a public consultation Any authority wishing to undertake a sale would on driver licensing fees, which is expected to close on need their financial advisers to provide an independent 14 August 2012. The options put forward in the consultation benchmark valuation of the undertaking prior to the are about covering the increased costs of the system and receipt of final bids. process changes as a result of the EU third directive. The preferred option in the consultation would see Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for vocational licence holders pay a fee of £20 for their first Transport whether her Department has considered provisional vocational licence and on the five-yearly allowing Dover port to become a community interest renewal of their licence. These fees would apply for the company. [109752] next five years. 39W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 40W

Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for The Department for Transport is committed to taking Transport what estimate she has made of the cost to action to support the commitments of the Government’s driving licence holders of replacing or renewing a Fraud, Error and Debt Taskforce. One of the taskforce’s driving licence in each of the next five years. [110781] priority areas is a better assessment of fraud and error risk, and measurement of losses, and the Department is Mike Penning: The current cost to driving licence working, with support from the Cabinet Office, to identify holders of replacing or renewing a driving licence is fraud and error that was previously unknown. shown in the following table. Future fees are subject to the outcome of a public consultation that is expected to Heathrow Airport end on 14 August 2012.

Transaction Fees options 2013-14+ Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Fees Transport what steps she intends to take to improve 2012-13 1 2 3 capacity at Heathrow airport. [109410]

Driving licence: Mrs Villiers [holding answer 24 May 2012]: In Renewals from age 70 Free Free Free Free accordance with our programme for government, the Renewals for medical Free Free Free Free coalition has cancelled plans for a third runway at reasons Heathrow. We are pursuing a number of measures to Replacement DL for Free Free Free Free change of details improve our airports and get the most out of existing Duplicate DL for lost/ £20 £20 £20 £20.70 capacity. These include: stolen or destroyed (i) Taking legislation through the House of Commons to reform airport economic regulation, giving the CAA much more Exchange licence: effective powers to intervene to protect the consumer interest if an airport is failing its passengers; Exchange from overseas £50 £50 £50 £50 jurisdiction (ii) Going forward with major improvements to surface access Paper licence traded in £20 £20 £20 £20.70 including Crossrail; for POL DL1 (iii) Supporting the work under way by CAA and NATS to Remove endorsements £20 £20 £20 £20.70 enhance airspace management, which has the potential to improve ‘Vanity’ renewal £20 £20 £20 £20.70 reliability and reduce the need for stacking; (photograph change (iv) Progress on the Single European Sky project, including the only) establishment of the Functional Airspace block for the UK and 10-yearly renewal of £20 £20 £20 £20.70 Ireland, which is already delivering operational benefits; POL DL1 Additional entitlements Free Free Free Free (v) Reform of aviation security regulation to move to an outcome-focused risk-based approach which is expected to enable Provisional vocational Free £20 Free Free DL (from full DL) security checks to be delivered in a more efficient and passenger- friendly way; Full vocational DL Free Free Free Free Renewal of vocational n/a £20 Free Free (vi) Phase one of a trial of operational freedoms at Heathrow entitlement has taken place. We believe that these measures have the potential to improve operational performance at the airport, as well reducing late night departures, stacking and carbon emissions. Phase two is Driving licence scheduled to commence on 1 July and a careful assessment of renewals: potential benefits and impacts will be made based on the evidence After revocation £50 £50 £50 £50 produced by the trial and the public consultation follows. High risk offenders £90 £90 £90 £90 after disqualifications After disqualification £65 £65 £65 £65 Highways Agency 1 POL DL is ‘Photo on Licence’ Driving Licence Christopher Pincher: To ask the Secretary of State for Fraud Transport how many uninhabited houses the Highways Agency owns in (a) Staffordshire and (b) the UK. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for [109277] Transport what estimate she has made of the level of (a) procurement and (b) other fraud affecting her Mike Penning: On behalf of the Secretary of State for Department’s spending in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; Transport, my right hon. Friend the Member for Putney and if she will make a statement. [110168] (Justine Greening), the Highways Agency holds property that may be required for the improvement, management Norman Baker: Since 2010, the Department has reported or operation of the Trunk Road and Motorway Network detected fraud and error on its quarterly data summaries. in England. The Agency does not own any property in These quarterly data summaries are published on the its own right. departmental website: The Highways Agency holds 60 uninhabited houses http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/business-plan-qds in England, two of which are in Staffordshire. but they do not take into account estimates of undetected Of those 60: fraud loss. Nor do they split the losses between (a) procurement and (b) other fraud affecting departmental 24 are in the process of being sold spend. Estimated figures for uncollected Vehicle Excise 10 are either in the process of being let or are being advertised Duty are produced on an annual basis and published in for letting the accounts of Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, 15 either have works under way or have works programmed but the loss does not fall to the Department for Transport. 11 are currently under review for repair or potential sale 41W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 42W

London Airports retirement since May 2010; and how much has been paid in severance to staff leaving her Department since Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for May 2010. [110069] Transport (1) whether she plans to conduct a review of the implementation of the Airports Slot Allocation Norman Baker: The following table gives details of Regulations 2006; [109489] the number of civil servants who have left the Department (2) whether she has considered the merits of for Transport and its agencies under redundancy schemes referring the matter of the operation of slot allocation in each financial year since May 2010. at London airports to the European Commission Competition Authority; [109490] Department/agency Number Cost (£) (3) if she will consider bringing forward proposals to 2010-11 amend the Airports Act 1986 to confer upon the Secretary Department for 164 13,427,732 of State the power to intervene in the allocation of slots Transport(centre) at London airports in order to maintain the UK’s Driver and Vehicle 00 aviation hub status; [109491] Licensing Agency (4) if she will make it her policy to seek to repatriate Driving Standards <5 38,931 from the EU the power to intervene in the allocation of Agency slots at London airports during negotiations on the Maritime Coastguard 7 160,932 amendment of the EU Slot Regulation. [109492] Agency Government Car and 38 1,341,176 Mrs Villiers: European Union regulations govern the Dispatch Agency allocation, transfer and exchange of slots at London’s Highways Agency 99 4,270,000 slot co-ordinated airports, in accordance with EU Vehicle Certification 00 Agency competition law. EU Regulation 95/93, which follows Vehicle and Operator 54 3,730,544 the International Air Transport Association World Slot Services Agency Guidelines, provides common rules throughout Europe for slot allocation, which are aimed at providing airlines with fair and equal access to airports across the EU 2011-12 through independent and transparent slot allocation Department for 99 4,256,418 procedures. Transport(centre) Driver and Vehicle 00 We do not propose to depart from the slot allocation Licensing Agency processes prescribed by EU law and we have no current Driving Standards 37 1,486,025 plans to review the Airport Slot Regulations 2006, Agency which transpose the EU Slot Regulations in the UK. Maritime Coastguard 00 However, the EU rules governing slot allocation are Agency under review as part of the European Commission’s Government Car and 26 522,837 Airports Package and the Government is engaging with Dispatch Agency the Commission and others in the debate on these Highways Agency 0 0 proposals. Vehicle Certification 00 Agency Manpower Vehicle and Operator 36 803,104 Services Agency

Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for These individuals left the Department under a number Transport how many civil servants in her Department of separate redundancy schemes, including in 2010-11 are expected to (a) retire, (b) be made redundant and under voluntary early retirement schemes. The availability (c) be recruited up to 2015. [110068] to leave under voluntary early retirement ended with the change in the rules of the Civil Service Compensation Norman Baker: The Department for Transport and Scheme in December 2010. its seven Executive agencies does not have a mandatory retirement age, though there are 2,590 staff who will have reached the normal pension age between now and Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for the beginning of 2015. Transport whether she has made an estimate of the The Department has no current plans to make any maximum reduction in civil servants her Department compulsory redundancies up to 2015. could make without diminishing its operational capabilities; and what representations she has made to The. Department is unable to accurately forecast how the Minister for the Cabinet Office on his proposals to many and which jobs may become available in the next reduce civil servant numbers. [110070] three years. In addition, the civil service recruitment freeze requires the Department to consider whether it is necessary to replace vacant positions and whether the Norman Baker: The Department has established its skills exist within civil service before recruiting from resourcing requirements to meet business plan commitments outside of the service. and reduce administration spend in the central Department. Where reductions in staff are being made, consultation Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for has taken place to ensure that front-line services are Transport how many civil servants in her Department protected and that these can be achieved without have (a) been made redundant and (b) taken early diminishing our capability. 43W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 44W

Meetings The Government’s consultation on the Commission’s proposal is available at: Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport http://assets.dft.gov.uk/consultations/dft-2011-26/dft-2011-26- on what dates (a) she, (b) Ministers and (c) senior consultation.pdf officials in her Department have met representatives of and includes the impact assessment. The consultation (i) the Institute for Public Policy Research, (ii) the period started on 5 September and ran for a period of Taxpayers’ Alliance, (iii) the Institute of Economic eight weeks until 28 October. Affairs, (iv) ResPublica, (v) the Centre for Social Justice and (vi) Policy Exchange; and if she will publish the Steve Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for minutes and agendas of these meetings. [108963] Transport what assessment she has made of evidence used by the European Commission in respect of Norman Baker: Details of ministerial and permanent compliance with roadworthiness regimes for (a) L3 secretary meetings with external organisations are routinely vehicles and (b) commercial vehicles. [109253] published every quarter and can be accessed via the following links: Mike Penning: There is no recent published evidence http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/ministerial-transparency/ to assess. We expect the EC to publish a proposal for #meetings new EU rules on vehicle roadworthiness testing this http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/dft-permanent-secretary- summer and we will examine carefully any impact meetings-with-external-organisations/ assessment evidence that is published alongside the proposal. Members: Correspondence Motorists’ Forum Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when she plans to reply to the letter from the right hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton of 10 April Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport 2012 with regard to Mr S. Jackson. [109012] how many times her Department’s Motorists’ Forum has met since its creation; when it will present its report; Justine Greening: I have responded to the right hon. and to which Minister it will report. [110076] Member for Manchester, Gorton. Mike Penning: The Motorists Forum was reformed in Mobility Scooters summer 2011, and has met three times since that point. It engages regularly with Ministers, and its views on Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for individual topics are communicated as part of regular Transport what steps her Department plans to take to business. The Secretary of State for Transport, my right ensure that users of mobility scooters are properly hon. Friend the Member for Putney (Justine Greening), trained. [109273] attended the forum in person in November. The forum has also created a sub-group to give Norman Baker: As part of the Department for specific advice on the Secretary of State’s announcement Transport’s review of the use of mobility vehicles, I regarding the Garage Customer Experience. The sub-group have asked officials to undertake further work with the has met twice and plans to meet a third time before mobility vehicles industry, training providers, public finalising its report. The main forum will consider the transport operators and with user groups on a range of report of the sub-group at its meeting in July before issues including how to make more use of existing reporting to Ministers. specialist training providers and how to develop and promote training courses. Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Motor Vehicles: EU Law Transport what the terms of reference are of the Motorists’ Forum; and what its membership is. [110803]

Steve Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Mike Penning: The membership and terms of reference what assessment she has made of evidence used by the are available on the DFT website. European Commission on the level of compliance with emissions limits for (a) L class vehicles and (b) commercial vehicles. [109250] Motorways: Emergency Telephones

Mike Penning: We are not aware of any evidence of a Paul Maynard: To ask the Secretary of State for lack of compliance with existing regulatory requirements Transport if she will take steps to ensure that the on air pollutant emissions in respect of either L category emergency telephone network on motorways is equipped (2 or 3 wheeled vehicles and quadricycles) or commercial with inductive coupler, volume control and text option. vehicles. The European Commission’s proposal to revise [109636] technical standards for new L category vehicles includes a package of measures to reduce emissions from these Mike Penning: The replacement of approximately vehicles as existing standards are not as stringent as 6,500 emergency roadside telephones installed on the those of other vehicle categories. motorway and all purpose trunk road network in England The Government’s view is that these measures are was completed in July 2011. The new version emergency not fully justified on air quality or cost benefit grounds roadside telephones that were installed as part of the and we. have therefore been seeking amendments to the replacement programme are equipped with inductive proposal to reduce burdens on manufacturers. coupler, volume control and text facility. 45W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 46W

Mutual Societies of Freedoms Act 2012—which will ban the immobilisation and towing away of vehicles in England and Wales Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport without lawful authority—is that the private parking what estimate she has made of the number of full-time sector must provide a fully independent appeals service equivalent staff who will transfer from her Department, which will cover all tickets issued by private parking its non-departmental public bodies and executive agencies operators with accredited access to DVLA vehicle keeper workforce to a mutual in (a) 2011-12 and (b) 2012-13; data. The appeals service will be offered as a free service and if she will make a statement. [110189] to motorists, and its decisions will be binding on the industry. Norman Baker: No staff transferred from the Department for Transport to a mutual in 2011-12. We remain open to proposals for the future. Publications

Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012 Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many (a) circulars and (b) consultation Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport documents were issued by her Department in each of (1) what discussions she has had with the Secretary of the last two years. [110505] State for the Home Department on Heathrow airport’s preparations for increased passenger numbers during Norman Baker: The Department for Transport including the London 2012 Olympics; [110065] its seven executive agencies issued 67 new consultation (2) what discussions she has had with the Secretary documents in 2010 and 65 in 2011. of State for the Home Department on preparations for Information relating to circulars could only be provided increased passenger numbers at Heathrow airport at disproportionate cost. during the London 2012 Paralympics. [110804]

Mrs Villiers: Ministers and officials from both Railways: Freight Departments have been involved in discussions on preparing for Olympics and Paralympics arrivals and departures Mr Donohoe: To ask the Secretary of State for at Heathrow and elsewhere over a number of years. Transport what assessment she has made of the impact on open cast coal producers from the increases in the Operating Costs cost of rail haulage as proposed by the Office of Rail Regulation. [110783] Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much was spent on the administration Mrs Villiers: Determining the impact of changes in of her Department in (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and access charges upon various sections of the train operating (c) 2011-12. [109835] market is the responsibility of the Office of Rail Regulation, which will carry out its assessment as part of the Norman Baker: The expenditure of the Department ongoing Periodic Review 2013 process. for the years 2009-10 and 2010-11 is contained in Core Table 4 of the published Annual Report and accounts: http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/dft-annual-report- Railways: Penalty Fares accounts/ HM Treasury published the February 2012 forecast Mr Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport outturn for all Government Departments in the 2012 how many people travelling on the Integrated Kent Budget publication. For the Department for Transport Franchise received a penalty notice in the last three this was a forecast department expenditure limit underspend years for which figures are available; and how many of £0.44 billion, none of which was transferred to were overturned on appeal. [109908] 2012-13 as part of the Budget Exchange scheme. The Department’s 2011-12 year-end position is not Mrs Villiers: The Department does not hold this yet finalised. HM Treasury will provide an update on information. the expenditure forecasts of all Government Departments in July in the 2012 Public Expenditure Statistical Analysis. Rescue Services Parking Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what changes in staffing levels have taken Transport what assessment she has made of the place in each coastguard station since May 2010; and adequacy of (a) legal and (b) other recourses to settle what staffing level changes she expects to take place at disputes between public and private parking operators. each coastguard station up to 2015. [110074] [109739] Mike Penning: The following table shows the changes Norman Baker: Parking on private land is subject to in staffing levels at each Maritime Rescue Co-ordination contract law. It is ultimately a matter for the courts if a Centre (MRCC) (full-time equivalent) between: contractual dispute cannot be resolved between the 1 May 2010 and 24 May 2011 parties concerned. A condition of introducing the provisions 24 May 2011 and March 2015 (Steady state operations for the in Schedule 4 (concerning keeper liability) of the Protection future HM Coastguard structure) 47W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 48W

Organisation 1 May 2010 24 May 2011 Change March 2015 Change

Aberdeen MRCC 29.00 22.50 -6.50 23 0.50 Belfast MRCC 21.14 22.64 1.50 23 0.36 Brixham MRCC 23.00 20.50 -2.50 0 -20.50 Clyde MRCC 28.14 23.57 -4.57 0 -23.57 Dover MRCC 31.00 23.50 -7.50 28 4.5 Falmouth MRCC 27.00 24.00 -3.00 23 -1.0 Forth MRCC 15.00 14.00 -1.00 0 -14.0 Holyhead MRCC 22.00 21.00 -1.00 23 2.0 Humber MRCC 27.00 27.78 0.78 23 -4.78 Liverpool MRCC 21.50 21.50 0.00 0 -21.50 London Coastguard 7.00 8.00 1.00 6 -2.0 Milford MRCC 24.00 22.00 -2.00 23 1.0 Portland MRCC 25.14 20.14 -5.00 0 -20.14 Shetland MRCC 24.14 19.57 -4.57 23 3.43 Solent MRCC 28.65 27.24 -1.41 0 -27.24 Stornoway MRCC 21.22 22.65 1.43 23 0.35 Swansea MRCC 27.00 22.50 -4.50 0 -22.50 Thames MRCC 22.00 20.60 -1.40 0 -20.60 Yarmouth MRCC 23.02 22.78 -0.24 0 -22.78 National Maritime Operations Centre 0 0 0 96 96 Grand total 446.95 406.47 -40.48 314 92.47

Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Mike Penning: Joint operational arrangements between Transport what reports her Department has received neighbouring states, to ensure rapid response to persons on coastguard stations needing staff cover to maintain in danger or difficulty, are internationally accepted watches since May 2010. [110075] good practice. HM Coastguard makes use of any vessel, aircraft, service or capability that can provide a response Mike Penning: Watchkeeping levels are routinely managed to an emergency. UK-based resources also provide by local HM Coastguard managers on an ‘Area’ basis. reciprocal assistance to the Irish Republic when requested Where shortfalls occur at individual Maritime Rescue and available. Co-ordination Centres (MRCCs) these are mitigated with the use of: Risk Assessment staff moves between watches; Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for overtime; or Transport what strategic or transitional risk registers in mutual support from the MRCCs paired station. (The Area each area of policy are held by her Department; and if Concept of Operations, introduced in 2005, provides ability for she will make a statement. [107470] paired MRCCs to provide mutual support for operational, business continuity or training purposes). Norman Baker: The Department for Transport holds For example these local arrangements are currently distinct strategic risk registers with respect to the following being deployed in the North East Scotland Area (Forth policy areas: MRCC/Aberdeen MRCC) to manage reduced manning The Highways Maintenance Efficiency Programme levels at Forth MRCC prior to its planned closure as Rail Reform and the Rail High Level Output Statement part of the Coastguard Modernisation Programme. Low emission vehicles. Mr MacNeil: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Road Works what representations her Department has received from the (a) European Union, (b) European Council, (c) Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport European Commission, (d) European Parliament and with reference to her Department’s Structural Reform (e) other interested parties on the creation of an integrated Plan, April 2012 Update, for what reason her Department’s EU coastguard service. [110109] plan to end the need for Government approval of individual local authorities’ permit schemes has not been completed. Mike Penning: The idea of an European Union [109877] Coastguard was included in the Commission’s Maritime Green Paper in 2005 but did not feature in the final Norman Baker: A statement of the reason for the Integrated Maritime Policy paper of October 2007. delay has already been published through the Department’s There has been no formal proposal for Commission April 2012 Business Plan Update, available at: legislation to create such a body to date although the http://assets.dft.gov.uk/publications/business-plan-2011-2015/ Commission is undertaking a feasibility study this year. progress-update-1204.pdf Rescue Services: Northern Ireland Roads: Safety

Vernon Coaker: To ask the Secretary of State for Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment she has made of the effectiveness Transport with reference to her Department’s Strategic of co-operation between the Irish Coastguard and search Framework for Road Safety, what steps have been taken and rescue missions in Northern Ireland; and if she will with respect to point 4.22 of the Framework to develop make a statement. [109325] a further training scheme for older drivers. [109255] 49W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 50W

Mike Penning: In paragraph 4.22 of the Strategic Mrs Villiers: Financial close for the Great Western Framework we identified a desire to work with the main line fleet and commercial close for the east coast voluntary sector representing the elderly on this. We main line fleet of the intercity express programme (IEP) will be taking this work forward in due course. are being targeted to occur during the summer. The location of depots is a matter for the preferred bidder, Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Agility Trains, which has already stated publicly that it Transport what steps her Department has taken in is planning depots at Swansea, Stoke Gifford, near respect of the Strategic Framework for Road Safety to Bristol, and North Pole in west London along the Great date; and what further steps are planned for Western main line. implementation of the strategy. [109256] Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Mike Penning: Since the publication of the Strategic Transport what estimate her Department has made of Framework for Road Safety in May 2011, the Department the minimum order of intercity express programme has taken a series of important steps to implement carriages which would be needed to justify a UK proposals set out in the framework. They include steps assembly facility. [110072] on all three of the thematic chapters of the framework. 1. ‘improving road safety together’: preparatory work for the Mrs Villiers: The Department for Transport welcomes launch of a road safety comparison site, a road safety observatory, the decision by Hitachi to build a new factory at Newton a speed limit assessment tool and a revised speed limit circular is Aycliffe in County Durham where the new trains will be well advanced and on track for completion this year. assembled. The minimum order of IEP carriages which 2. ‘education’: we have already made changes to the driving would be needed to justify a UK assembly facility is a tests and changes to the educational scheme for drink drive matter for Hitachi, and not the Department, to decide. offenders are progressing towards implementation. 3. ‘targeted enforcement and sanctions’: preparatory work on Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport the introduction of fixed penalty notices for careless driving and whether her Department has made representations to increased penalty fines is well-advanced and legislation to create a the French Government on levies charged on UK-bound specific drug impaired driving offence has been published. trains by the French rail infrastructure manager RFF. The Department will continue implementation of [110073] these and other measures as set out in the Strategic Framework. Mrs Villiers: No—charges levied by the French Rolling Stock Infrastructure RFF are a matter for it and the users of the French rail network. However, all such charges have Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for to comply with EU legislation. Transport when she decided to reduce the number of carriages as part of the Intercity Express programme; Shipping for what reasons the decision was taken; and when Parliament was informed. [110694] Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when she expects to respond to the conclusions Mrs Villiers: Following the Foster review, the spending of the legal working group on application of the National review and a subsequent value for money appraisal Minimum Wage Act 1988 to seafarers working on non-UK against the alternatives, the then Secretary of State for registered vessels travelling between UK ports; and if Transport, the right hon. Member for Runnymede and she will make a statement. [109479] Weybridge (Mr Hammond, informed Parliament of the decision to take forward a revised, lower cost proposal for the Intercity Express Programme from Agility Trains Mike Penning: A legal working group has now concluded on 1 March 2011. its consideration of the application of the National Minimum Wage Act 1998 to seafarers working on non-UK Rolling Stock: Procurement registered vessels travelling between UK ports. The Minister of Employment Relations, the hon. Member John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for for North Norfolk (Norman Lamb), will be responding Transport when financial close for the (a) Thameslink to the conclusions of the working group in the near contract and (b) IEP contract will be completed. [R] future. [109630] Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Mrs Villiers: The Department expects to conclude Transport with reference to the answer to the hon. the core project agreements for the Thameslink Rolling Member for Portsmouth South of 23 March 2012, Stock with Siemens and Cross London Trains shortly. Official Report, column 912W, on shipping: EU law, Financial close is expected during the summer. what assessment she has made of the extent to which Negotiations on the Intercity Express Programme are the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 will prevent now in their final stages. We aim to reach financial close social dumping in the (a) shipping and (b) offshore for the Great Western Main Line fleet during the summer. industries; and if she will place in the Library a copy of any such assessment. [109481] Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when her Department expects to finalise the Mike Penning: The Maritime Labour Convention location of depots for the intercity express programme 2006 addresses fair competition and should hinder social fleets for the (a) Great Western and (b) east coast dumping through the creation of a level playing field main line. [110071] across the international shipping industry. 51W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 52W

The convention provides that ships of non-ratifying 1.3, 2.3, 2.7 and 4.5. In addition, current legislation countries should have “no more favourable treatment” already complies with a number of provisions within in the ports of ratifying countries. The impact assessments the other Titles. Where amendments to existing legislation which we have prepared in support of the proposed UK or new provisions are required, the Government will regulations to implement the MLC, which will be published consult. A first package of such measures will be issued as part of the consultation package oh implementing for public consultation shortly. legislation, will include the impact of applying the The Maritime and Coastguard Agency continues to convention’s provisions to ships of non-ratifying flags. chair meetings of a tripartite working group to keep the shipping industry and trade unions informed of progress Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for with UK implementation of the MLC and to address Transport with reference to the answer to the hon. any concerns expressed by stakeholders. Since May Member for Portsmouth South of 23 March 2012, 2010, the working group has met on nine occasions as Official Report, column 912W, on shipping: EU law, follows: May 2010, July 2010, September 2010, November whether UK ratification of the Maritime Labour 2010, January 2011 .April 2011, June 2011, November Convention (MLC) 2006 will result in the MLC applying 2011 and March 2012. to all seafarers working on all vessels in UK territorial waters irrespective of (a) seafarer nationality and (b) flag of state. [109482] Shipping: Treaties Mike Penning: The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 will provide comprehensive rights and Sir Peter Bottomley: To ask the Secretary of State for protection at work for all seafarers regardless of their Transport what progress has been made on ratification nationality and the flag of their ship when working on of the UN Convention on Contracts for the ships to which the MLC applies, as defined in article II International Carriage of Goods Wholly or Partly by of the convention. Sea treaty of international rules revising the legal and political framework for maritime carriage of goods; John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for and if she will make a statement. [R] [110634] Transport whether she holds regular meetings with Ministerial colleagues in the Ministry of Defence to Mike Penning: This Government supports the principle discuss (a) flagging and (b) employment trends in the of consolidating, harmonising and modernising existing Merchant Navy; and when she attended the last such rules governing the carriage of goods by sea. meeting. [R] [109627] The last Administration set up a stakeholder working Mike Penning: We do not meet with ministerial colleagues group to bring together the various sectors of the UK in the Ministry of Defence regularly to discuss either maritime industry to assist the Government in making flagging or employment trends in the Merchant Navy. the right decision regarding ratification of this convention, The Government’s policies are designed to support a commonly known as the ‘Rotterdam Rules’. However, strong UK shipping register and Merchant Navy. this group was unable to reach any consensus of opinion. In these circumstances, the Government is continuing John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for to monitor international reaction to this convention, Transport pursuant to the answer of 22 February 2012, and will review its position if and when other leading Official Report, column 876W, on shipping: treaties, maritime and trading nations ratify it. To date, only one what legal advice she has received on the Maritime state has done so. Labour Convention 2006; and if she will place in the Library a copy of any such advice. [R] [109628] Sick Leave Mike Penning: As a matter of general policy, and in keeping with the approach taken by other public bodies, the Department does not disclose any legal advice it Mr Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for may receive, and does not disclose whether any such Transport how many days of sick leave were taken by advice has been sought or obtained in any particular staff in her Department in each of the last three years. case. [106445]

John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Norman Baker: The central Department and its seven Transport pursuant to the answer of 22 February 2012, executive agencies recorded the following in respect of Official Report, column 876W, on shipping: treaties, staff sickness absence during the 2009, 2010 and 2011 with which requirements of the Maritime Labour calendar years: Convention 2006 the UK is already compliant; what recent meetings she has had with (a) the shipping Total absence days Total absence days for DfTc industry and (b) trade unions at which UK compliance was discussed; how many such meetings there have 2009 153,992 10,404 been since May 2010; and on what dates any such 2010 146,233 9,189 discussions have taken place. [R] [109629] 2011 133,355 7,585

Mike Penning: There are a number of areas in which These figures were calculated according to reporting the UK is already fully compliant with the Maritime guidelines provided by the Cabinet Office, to whom we Labour Convention (MLC) 2006; these include Titles 1.2, report on a quarterly basis. 53W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 54W

South West Trains Travel

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Hepburn: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Transport with reference to her Department’s press (1) what estimate she has made of the volume of passenger notice of 8 May 2012, entitled Extra carriages mean journeys in (a) Jarrow constituency, (b) South Tyneside, more seats for commuters, whether the three new South (c) the North East and (d) the UK in each year since Western Trains AM peak suburban services lengthened 2010; [110144] from eight cars to 10 cars will be added to the Reading (2) what assessment she has made of the level and to Waterloo service route. [109965] adequacy of bus services in (a) Jarrow constituency, (b) South Tyneside, (c) the North East and (d) the Mrs Villiers: No. The three lengthened morning peak UK following the reductions in the bus service operator’s services referred to will be two originating from Guildford grant. [110145] and one from Woking. Passengers from Reading will benefit from two new 8-car morning peak services that Norman Baker: Statistics on bus passenger journeys, were announced on 23 December 2011. vehicle miles and fares can be found online at http://www.dft.gov.uk/statistics/series/buses/ Thames Estuary Airport Statistics for 2011-12, will be published in the autumn. Around 78% of bus services are provided commercially, with the remainder generated by local authority tender. Mark Reckless: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment her Department has made of the effect of an airport in the Thames Estuary on airspace management. [110604] DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER Electoral Register Mrs Villiers: The Department has made no such assessment since the publication of The Future of Air Chris Ruane: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister for Transport White Paper in 2003. Prior to that date there what reason he proposes to bring forward the start of was some consideration of airspace issues as part of the individual electoral registration from 2014-15. [110521] study into potential new airport sites in south east England but no detailed assessment was produced by Mr Harper: The Government is committed to restoring the Department. trust in our political system. There is a widespread We intend to consult in the summer on a draft concern about electoral fraud in this country—a survey sustainable framework for UK aviation. Alongside this carried out at the end of last year by the Electoral we intend to publish a call for evidence on maintaining Commission found that 36% of people believed that the UK’s international aviation connectivity. electoral fraud was a problem. This is a serious issue which we need to address. The Commission’s report can Mark Reckless: To ask the Secretary of State for be found at: Transport whether she or her officials have received http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/__data/assets/ representations from the French, Belgium and Dutch pdf_file/0010/146998/2011-Public-Opinion-Winter-Research- governments on the potential effect of an airport in the Topline.pdf Thames Estuary on French, Belgian or Dutch airspace. When we came to office we were not convinced that [110606] that previous legislation was the best way to implement Individual Electoral Registration. It would have led to Mrs Villiers: No such representations have been received. confusion and would have had a very significant cost. We intend to consult in the summer on a draft sustainable By speeding up the move to a new system we think it framework for UK aviation. Alongside this we intend to will be clearer and easier to communicate to people publish a call for evidence on maintaining the UK’s what we are doing, and save a significant sum of money. international aviation connectivity. Chris Ruane: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister whether he has made an assessment of public Transport perceptions of electoral registration fraud. [110530] Mr Harper: The Cabinet Office has not made any Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for recent assessment of public perceptions of electoral Transport what recent assessment her Department has registration fraud. However the Electoral Commission made of the contribution of the transportation sector carried out a survey at the end of last year that found to the UK economy. [109851] that 36% of people believed that electoral fraud was a problem. While reporting by Association of Chief Police Mike Penning: The National Accounts, published by Officers and the Commission indicates that proven instances the Office of National Statistics, record and describe of fraud are low, public perception remains high and economic activity in the United Kingdom, including an this is a serious issue that we need to address. That is analysis of gross value added by industry. The most why we are investing to speed up the implementation of recent data for 2009 for transport and storage give a Individual Electoral Registration. value of £61.9 billion. The Commission’s report can be found at: The most recent publication can be found at: http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/__data/assets/ http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/naa1-rd/united-kingdom- pdf_file/0010/146998/2011-Public-Opinion-Winter-Research- national-accounts/2011-edition/index.html Topline.pdf 55W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 56W

House of Lords: Reform Non MP correspondence Not Not answered Guto Bebb: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what answered within assessment he has made of the effect of his proposals Number of Not within six three for reform of the House of Lords on the relationship letters answered months months between the House of Lords and the devolved 2010 1,240 0 2 2 administrations. [108801] 2011 1,449 0 0 0 20121 710 0 0 0 Mr Harper: There is no direct constitutional relationship between the House of Lords and the devolved MP correspondence Administrations. Not Not answered answered within Miss McIntosh: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister Number of Not within six three what recent representations he has received on House letters answered months months of Lords reform. [109329] 2010 150 0 0 1 2011 153 0 0 0 Mr Harper: The Government has received more than 20121 86 0 0 0 2,000 representations since the publication of its White 1 Up to end of April. Paper and draft House of Lords Reform Bill in May last year. The majority are concerned with the question The Cabinet Office, on an annual basis, publishes a of reserved places for Church of England Bishops in a report to Parliament on the performance of Departments reformed House of Lords. in replying to Members’ correspondence. The report for 2011 was published on 15 March 2012, Official Report, columns 30-33WS. Reports for earlier years are available Prisoners: Voting Rights in the Library of the House.

Priti Patel: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister (1) what steps the Government is taking in respect of the Driving Offences: Prosecutions voting rights of prisoners following the judgement given in the Scoppola v Italy (No.3) case by the European Court of Human Rights in May 2012; Karl McCartney: To ask the Attorney-General how whether he plans to bring forward legislative proposals many uninsured drivers were prosecuted in (a) 1997, as a result of the case; and if he will make a statement; (b) 2002 and (c) 2011. [110675] [109754] (2) with reference to the judgement given in the The Solicitor-General: The Crown Prosecution Service Scoppola v Italy (No.3) case by the European Court of (CPS) does not maintain a central record of the number Human Rights in May 2012 to which categories of of uninsured drivers prosecuted in (a) 1997, (b) 2002 prisoner he proposes to grant the right to vote; and and (c) 2011. This information could be obtained only whether he plans to grant prisoners the right to vote by examining all of the CPS’s cases files, which would based on the (a) type of offence their conviction relates incur disproportionate cost. to and (b) length of time they are serving in custody. Records held by the CPS identify the number of [109755] offences charged under section 143 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 (use of a motor vehicle not insured or secured Mr Harper: The judgment in the case of Scoppola v. against third-party risks) in which a prosecution commenced Italy (No. 3) was received on 22 May 2012. The Government rather than the number of defendants prosecuted. The will consider the judgment carefully, and its implication data have been maintained since 2005. Prior to 2005 on the issue of prisoner voting in the UK there is no central data. The number of offences prosecuted by the CPS in 2011 was 63,183. This figure represents only those cases prosecuted by the CPS. The Prosecution of Offences Act 1985 (Specified Proceedings) Order 1999 allows the police to prosecute uninsured drivers ATTORNEY-GENERAL without reference to the CPS. The CPS does not maintain a central record of police prosecutions. Correspondence Karl McCartney: To ask the Attorney-General what Mr Thomas: To ask the Attorney-General how many the average size was of each fraudulent insurance claim letters to Ministers in the Law Officers’ Department for which drivers were prosecuted in the years (a) were (a) not answered, (b) not answered within six 1997, (b) 2002 and (c) 2011. [110786] months and (c) not answered within three months in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; how many such letters were The Solicitor-General: The Crown Prosecution Service from hon. Members; and if he will make a statement. (CPS) does not maintain a central record of the monetary [109434] value of fraudulent insurance claims for which defendants were prosecuted. This information could be obtained The Solicitor-General: The information requested is only by examining all of the CPS’s cases files, which contained in the following tables. would incur disproportionate cost. 57W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 58W

Karl McCartney: To ask the Attorney-General how NORTHERN IRELAND many drivers were prosecuted for making fraudulent insurance claims in the years (a) 1997, (b) 2002 and Debts Written Off (c) 2011. [110787] Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for The Solicitor-General: The Crown Prosecution Service Northern Ireland how much bad debt was written off (CPS) does not maintain a central record of the number by his Department in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; of drivers prosecuted for making fraudulent insurance and if he will make a statement. [110211] claims. This information could be obtained only by examining all of the CPS’s case files, which would incur Mr Swire: The Northern Ireland Office did not write disproportionate cost. off any bad debt in 2010-11 or 2011-12. Manpower Empty Property Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what target he has set to reduce headcount Mr Thomas: To ask the Attorney-General if he will across his Department and non-departmental public list the empty or largely empty buildings owned by the bodies in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and (c) 2012-13; Law Officers’ Departments; and if he will make a and if he will make a statement. [110232] statement. [110834] Mr Swire: The Northern Ireland Office keeps its The Solicitor-General: The Law Officer’s Departments staffing levels under regular review. Vacancies are only do not own any empty buildings. filled when there is judged to remain a business case to do so. Mr Thomas: To ask the Attorney-General how many My Department has two non-departmental public buildings owned by the Law Officers’ Departments and bodies—the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission the bodies for which he is responsible have been empty and the Parades Commission for Northern Ireland. for more than two years; and if he will make a Both public bodies are independent of Government statement. [110872] and the hon. Gentleman may wish to write to the commissions directly on these matters. The Solicitor-General: None. Mutual Societies

Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Fraud Northern Ireland what estimate he has made of the number of full-time equivalent staff who will transfer Mr Thomas: To ask the Attorney-General what from his Department and its non-departmental public estimate he has made of the level of (a) procurement bodies’ workforce to a mutual in (a) 2011-12 and (b) and (b) other fraud affecting the Law Officers’ 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. [110191] Department’s spending in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; and if he will make a statement. [110183] Mr Swire: No staff in my Department transferred to a mutual during 2011-12. I am not aware of any such transfers which may take place in 2012-13. The Solicitor-General: In 2010-11 the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) lost £18,000 through the misuse of a My Department has two non-departmental public stolen mobile phone. The CPS had no other instances bodies—the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission of procurement or other fraud during the last two and the Parades Commission for Northern Ireland. financial years. The loss did not have a material impact Both public bodies are independent of Government on CPS spending. and the hon. Gentleman may wish to write to the commissions directly on these matters. The remaining Law Officers’ Departments have not identified any fraud affecting its spending during the Pay last two financial years. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many staff working for his Mutual Societies Department and its non-departmental public bodies are employed through off-payroll engagements costing Mr Thomas: To ask the Attorney-General what estimate less than £58,200 per annum; and if he will make a he has made of the number of full-time equivalent staff statement. [110828] who will transfer from the Law Officers’ Departments Mr Swire: The Northern Ireland Office employs four and their Executive agency workforce to a mutual in people through off-payroll engagements costing less (a) 2011-12 and (b) 2012-13; and if he will make a than £58,200 per annum. statement. [110204] My Department has two non-departmental public bodies—the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission The Solicitor-General: The information is as follows: and the Parades Commission for Northern Ireland. (a) None Both public bodies are independent of Government (b) There are no plans for staff to transfer to a mutual in and the hon. Gentleman may wish to write to the 2012-13. commissions directly on these matters. 59W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 60W

SCOTLAND David Mundell: The Investment and Contract Readiness Fund is England only and is funded by the Cabinet Sovereignty Office. A company may apply if they are based in and operate within England only. Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for The Secretary of State for Scotland, the right hon. Scotland what discussions and correspondence he has Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael had with the Scottish Government on the transitional Moore), and I have regular discussions with ministerial arrangements following the devolution of stamp duty colleagues on a wide range of issues concerning Social Investment. Recently, the Minister for Civil Society at under the Scotland Act 2012. [110583] the Cabinet Office visited Scotland where he visited a community based social enterprise before speaking to David Mundell: The UK and Scottish Governments and meeting with delegates at a national event in Perth are working together through the Joint Exchequer which looked at social investment opportunities and Committee to ensure the successful implementation of how the Big Society Capital will operate across the the measures introduced by the Scotland Act 2012, whole of the United Kingdom. including the arrangements to devolve stamp duty land tax. The next meeting of the Joint Exchequer Committee will be prior to the summer recess. WALES Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether there was any discussion at the Joint Correspondence Ministerial Conference held on 23 May 2012 on the recent UK Government consultation on the holding of a referendum on independence for Scotland. [110690] Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many letters to Ministers in her Department were (a) not answered, (b) not answered within six months David Mundell: The UK Government’s recent and (c) not answered within three months in (i) consultation on Scotland’s constitutional future was 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; how many such letters were not discussed at the Joint Ministerial Committee held from hon. Members; and if she will make a statement. on 23 May 2012. [109443]

Linear Park, Invergordon Mr David Jones: None. The Cabinet Office reports on the performance of Departments and their agencies in John Thurso: To ask the Secretary of State for handling Members’ and Peers’ correspondence in calendar Scotland what recent discussions he has had with the years. Details for 2011 are set out on 15 March 2012, Crown Estate about Linear Park, Invergordon; and if Official Report, column 31WS. Correspondence statistics he will make a statement. [110584] for 2010 can be found on 28 March 2011, Official Report, 1WS. Michael Moore: I am aware of concerns in relation to The Wales Office publishes performance on its handling Linear Park, Invergordon and discussions are ongoing of correspondence as part of the Department’s annual with the Crown Estate at official level. I intend to meet reports. my hon. Friend and the Crown Estate on this matter as soon as practicable. Debts Written Off

Sovereignty Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how much bad debt was written off by her Department in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if she will make a Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for statement. [110207] Scotland whether there was any discussion at the Joint Ministerial Conference held on 23 May 2012 on the Mr David Jones: None. transfer of (a) stamp duty, (b) income tax powers and (c) any further devolved powers to the Scottish Empty Property Government following the passage of the Scotland Act 2012. [110689] Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales David Mundell: The devolution of stamp duty land if she will list the empty or largely empty buildings tax, the arrangements for a new Scottish rate of income owned by her Office; and if she will make a statement. tax and further devolved powers were not discussed at [110851] the Joint Ministerial Committee held on 23 May 2012. Mr David Jones: None.

Third Sector Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many buildings owned by her Department and the Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for bodies for which she is responsible have been empty for Scotland what discussions he has had with Ministerial more than two years; and if she will make a statement. colleagues in the Cabinet Office on the operation of the [110870] Investment and Contract Readiness Fund in Scotland. [110581] Mr David Jones: None. 61W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 62W

Fraud Mr Bellingham: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the Department for Foreign and Commonwealth Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales Affairs. what estimate she has made of the level of (a) procurement The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) launched and (b) other fraud affecting her Department’s spending the conflict minerals website on 29 March 2011 at a in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; and if she will make a trade event for British businesses, trading in minerals statement. [110166] sourced in the Democratic Republic of Congo. At the time of the launch we promoted the site widely, using Mr David Jones: The Wales Office generally uses the social media channels and have advertised it periodically procurement contracts awarded by the Ministry of Justice. on the main FCO web page since then. The Department We have had no evidence of any fraud affecting the for Business, Innovation and Skills’ web page covering Wales Office in 2010-11 or 2011-12. the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Manpower Development risk awareness tool has a link to the conflict minerals website. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what target she has set to reduce headcount across her Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Department in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and (c) International Development what meetings he attended 2012-13; and if she will make a statement. [110227] during his recent trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo. [110666] Mr David Jones: All staff in the Wales Office are employees of other Government Departments, mainly Mr Andrew Mitchell: During my visit to the Democratic the Ministry of Justice and the Welsh Government. The Republic of Congo (DRC) I met with: Wales Office keeps its headcount under constant review 1. The Governor of Katanga Moïse Katumbi Chapwe and his to ensure that the most efficient use is made of public Cabinet, to discuss priorities for the province and. the UK development resources. programme in DRC. 2. Senior Management from Tenke-Fungurume Mining during a visit to their mine, to better understand constraints in the business environment in DRC. INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT 3. Ciaran Donnelly, Director of International Rescue Committee Chad (IRC) DRC, who led a visit to Nkumanwa village, to show how UK funding is supporting community recovery and have the Chris Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for opportunity to meet with beneficiaries. International Development what his most recent 4. The embassy and Department for International Development estimate is of the number of people living in poverty in (DFID) teams in DRC, to discuss the UK development programme. Chad. [109524] 5. The Chinese Ambassador in DRC, to explore opportunities for collaborative working. Mr O’Brien: According to the latest available data 6. President Joseph Kabila, President of the DRC, to discuss from the World Bank (2003), it is estimated that 62% development priorities in the DRC and promote increased out of a total population of 11.2 million are living transparency and accountability, especially in the mining sector, below the international poverty line of $1.25 per day. and private sector development. 7. Major General Adrian Foster, Deputy Force Commander of Correspondence the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO), to discuss the security situation and humanitarian Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for impact of recent operations. International Development how many letters to Ministers 8. A selection of private sector actors from a range of industries in his Department were (a) not answered, (b) not (Vodacom, Citibank, Rio Tinto, British American Tobacco, Anglo answered within six months and (c) not answered within American, Bralima), to explore the opportunities and challenges three months in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; how many in the business environment. such letters were from hon. Members; and if he will 9. Representatives from humanitarian agencies to receive an make a statement. [109450] update on the situation in DRC. 10. Opposition party representatives, Albert Moleka, Thomas Mr Duncan: DFID is not aware of any letters that fall Luhaka, Vital Kamerhe and Samy Badibanga, to discuss the into categories (a), (b) or (c). elections and the future role of opposition in promoting democracy I would direct the hon. Member to the annual report and accountability in DRC. to Parliament on the performance of Government Departments in replying to Members’ correspondence, Developing Countries: Sanitation which was published on 15 March 2012, Official Report, columns 31-33WS. Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Democratic Republic of Congo International Development with reference to the outcomes of the sanitation and water for all meeting, Mark Lazarowicz: To ask the Secretary of State for what further steps he plans to take to help developing International Development what steps the Government countries meet the Millennium Development Goal on is taking to publicise amongst businesses its online sanitation. [109247] research tool for UK companies trading in minerals from conflict-affected areas of Democratic Republic of Mr O’Brien: Access to sanitation is one of the most Congo, or whose products include components with off-track Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In such minerals. [109096] light of this the UK Government has recently announced 63W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 64W that it will double the commitments on water, sanitation providing humanitarian aid to those affected by the and hygiene that we made last year. conflict, including through contributions to the Common We will focus on providing access to basic services Humanitarian Funds in both Sudan and South Sudan. through low-cost technologies such as communal hand pumps and pit latrines. We will achieve this through a range of measures, including challenging charities and the private sector to compete for support on the basis of LEADER OF THE HOUSE the value for money they offer. Pensions Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment he has Chris Leslie: To ask the Leader of the House what made of the outcomes of the recent Sanitation and the pension entitlement is of the holder of the post of Water for All meeting in Washington. [109738] (a) Lord Chancellor and (b) Secretary of State for Justice; and if he will make a statement. [109608] Mr Andrew Mitchell: I attended the Sanitation and Water for All high-level meeting in Washington on 20 Sir George Young: Details of the Lord Chancellor’s April 2012. It was attended by more than 60 ministers pension and the pension arrangements for other offices responsible for finance, sanitation and hygiene portfolios of state are published annually in the Consolidated from both developed and developing countries. It led to Fund (CF) Accounts. The Consolidated Accounts for a number of critical commitments to enhance support 2010-11 may be found at the following link: for global access to sanitation and water. These included www.official-documents.gov.uk/document/hc1012/hc12/1290/ a pledge from the UK to double the commitment on 1290.pdf water, sanitation and hygiene that we made last year. The entitlement is half of the entitled salary per year The meeting took place against the backdrop of an and is payable from leaving office for life in accordance announcement that the world had met the Millennium with provisions set out in legislation. Development Goal target for improved drinking water The current the Lord Chancellor, my right hon. and sources. The attendees noted the success of this achievement learned Friend the Member for Rushcliffe (Mr Clarke), but it was evident that much more needed to be done. has waived his legislative pension entitlement and has agreed instead to take a pension in line with the benefits Publications paid under the Ministerial Pension Scheme (as set out in the Parliamentary Pensions (Consolidation and Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Amendment) Regulations 1993). International Development how many publications Where the role of the Secretary of State for Justice is have been issued by his Department since May 2010. held by the Lord Chancellor, there is no additional [109820] pension entitlement as set out in the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act (Schedule 6, 17 (3)). Where Mr Duncan: Since May 2010, DFID has issued 243 this is not the case, benefits are paid under the Ministerial publications on its departmental website Pension Scheme (as set out in the Parliamentary Pensions www.dfid.gov.uk (Consolidation and Amendment) Regulations 1993). Of these, over 220 were published by DFID at no additional cost, in an electronic only format. Where possible, DFID issues all of its publications at low or zero additional cost. HOME DEPARTMENT

Sudan: Southern Sudan Alcoholic Drinks: Misuse

Henry Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Guy Opperman: To ask the Secretary of State for the International Development what assessment he has Home Department what plans she has to ban multi-buy made of the humanitarian aid situation in the Blue promotions for alcohol in England and Wales. [110034] Nile and Nuba Mountains regions between Sudan and South Sudan. [109233] James Brokenshire: On 23 March, the Government launched their Alcohol Strategy, which included a Mr O’Brien: The latest report from the UN Office for commitment to consult on a ban on multi-buy promotions the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimates in shops. The Government will consult on this proposal that over 500,000 people have been displaced or severely in the forthcoming months. affected by the conflicts in Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan, which includes the Nuba Mountains. Of Antisocial Behaviour Orders these, more than 140,000 are refugees in South Sudan and Ethiopia. I was also able to discuss the humanitarian situation with Sudanese Bishop Macram Max Gassis Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for the when we met earlier this month. It is likely that without Home Department (1) how many breaches of stand-alone a cessation of hostilities the humanitarian situation will anti-social behaviour orders have resulted in custodial only worsen. We continue to press the Government of sentences in each of the last five years; [108900] Sudan and the rebel militias in these areas to cease (2) what sentences were awarded to individuals who hostilities and permit access for humanitarian agencies breached stand-alone anti-social behaviour orders in to those that most need it. DFID remains committed to each of the last five years; [108905] 65W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 66W

(3) how many stand-alone anti-social behaviour Antisocial behaviour orders (ASBOs) issued at all courts1 in the Durham Criminal Justice System (CJS) area as reported to the Ministry of Justice2 by orders have been breached in each of the last five years. the Court Service, 2006 to 2010 [108906] CJS area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

James Brokenshire [holding answer 22 May 2012]: Durham 26 19 41 27 29 The number of ’stand-alone’ antisocial behaviour orders 1 Includes ASBOs issued on application by magistrates courts acting in their (ASBOs) proved in court to have been breached, together civil capacity and county courts, which became available on 1 April 1999, and ASBOs made following conviction for a relevant criminal offence at the Crown with the type of sentence received, in each year between court and at magistrates courts (acting in their criminal capacity), which 2006 and 2010 (the latest year for which data is currently became available on 2 December 2002. available) can be viewed in the following table. 2 Prior to the creation of the Ministry of Justice on 9 May 2007, numbers of ASBOs issued were reported to Home Office by the Court Service. ASBO data for 2011 are planned for publication on Note: Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and 18 October 2012. complete. However, it is important to note that these data have been extracted Antisocial behaviour orders (ASBOs) proved at all courts in England and Wales from large administrative data systems generated by the courts. As a consequence, to have been breached for the first time within the periods shown1 with sentence care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable breakdown, 2006-10 limitations are taken into account when those data are used. Source: ASBOs having been Prepared by Justice Statistics Analytical Services within the Ministry of Justice. issued on application: 2006 2007 20082 2009 2010 Antisocial Behaviour: Alcoholic Drinks Breached3 662 636 505 512 484 Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for the Sentence received: Home Department what steps she is taking to tackle 4 Immediate custody 120 95 114 102 96 alcohol-related anti-social behaviour. [108860] Community sentence 284 285 209 223 173 Fine 84 87 72 92 100 James Brokenshire: The Government has taken decisive Discharge5 35 36 35 25 28 steps to tackle with alcohol-related antisocial behaviour. Otherwise Dealt 139 133 75 70 87 With6 We have set out further radical proposals to tackle the 1 ASBOs may be breached more than once and in more than one year. In this harms caused by alcohol misuse in the Government’s table ASBOs are counted once only within the period when they were first Alcohol Strategy, which was published on 23 March. breached. Therefore only the sentence received on the occasion that the first We have also legislated to give the police and local breach was proved in court is shown in this table. 2 Excludes data for Cardiff magistrates court for April, July, and August 2008. communities more powers to deal with problems caused 3 This table only counts breaches of ASBOs issued on application by by irresponsible businesses and late night drinking. magistrates courts acting in their civil capacity and county courts. These are sometimes referred to as ’stand-alone’ ASBOs. Breaches of ASBOs issued Association of Chief Police Officers following conviction are not included in this table. 4 Includes: Detention and Training Orders; Young Offenders Institute and unsuspended imprisonment. Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the 5 Discharge includes absolute and conditional discharges. 6 The category Otherwise Dealt With (ODW) includes; one day in police cells; Home Department what funding her Department disqualification order; restraining order; confiscation order; travel restriction plans to provide to the Association of Chief Police order; disqualification from driving; hospital order; recommendation for [109576] deportation; and other miscellaneous disposals. Officers for the financial year 2012-13. Note: ASBO breach data are compiled by matching records of ASBOs issued with Nick Herbert: The Home Secretary plans to provide ASBOs breached. The nature of this matching process means that previously published ASBO breach data are subject to minor revision. Every effort is the Association of Chief Police Officers headquarters made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, with funding of £1,400,000 in financial year 2012-13. A it is important to note that these data have been extracted from large breakdown of the figures is provided in the table. administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. Planned funding Grant stream (£000)

Antisocial Behaviour Orders: Easington Home Office Grant-in-Aid 570 UK Disaster Victims Identification 454 (UKDVI) Grahame M. Morris: To ask the Secretary of State Preparing/delivering the Olympic and 376 for the Home Department how many antisocial Paralympic Safety and Security Strategy behaviour orders (ASBOs) were granted in the criminal Total 1,400 justice system area covering Easington constituency in each of the last five years; and what the most common Asylum: Young People reason was for granting an ASBO in each such year. [109649] Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if she will evaluate the effects of the age assessments dental x-ray pilots; and if she will James Brokenshire: The number of antisocial behaviour ensure that young people are consulted as part of such orders (ASBOs) issued at all courts in the Durham an evaluation. [106406] Criminal Justice System (CJS) area in each year between 2006 and 2010 (the latest year for which data are Damian Green: When the dental x-ray trial is completed currently available) can be viewed in the following table. it will be fully evaluated. The trial will be open only to The reasons for granting an ASBO are recorded in those asylum applicants who are assessed by Croydon individual case files held by the courts, but not collected council as adults. The agency expects to take into account centrally. the views of participants as part of the trial evaluation. 67W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 68W

Benzodiazepines Home Office/agency/non- departmental public body 2010-11 2011-11 Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Independent Safeguarding 59 21 Department with reference to EU Council Directive Authority Decision 2008/206/JHA, whether 1-benzylpiperazine is Interim CCTV Regulator 0 0 subject to control measures and criminal provisions in Investigatory Powers 164 2— the UK. [109858] Tribunal (includes Intelligence Services Commissioner and the James Brokenshire: 1-benzylpiperazine (BZP) became Interception of a controlled Class C drug under Schedule 2 (Part III) of Communications the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 on 23 December 2009, Commissioner) Migration Advisory 00 together with its related compounds by way of a generic Committee definition provided by the Advisory Council on the National DNA Database 00 Misuse of Drugs. Ethics Group National Policing 00 Closed Circuit Television Improvement Agency Office of the Immigration 5n/a 5n/a Services Commissioner Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for the (OSIC) Home Department how many and what proportion of Office of Surveillance 00 criminal cases have been investigated by the police Commissioners using CCTV evidence in 2012. [107437] Police Advisory Board for 00 England and Wales Nick Herbert [holding answer 15 May 2012]: This Police Arbitration Panel 0 0 information is not held centrally. Police Discipline Appeals 00 Tribunal Complaints Police Negotiating Board 0 0 Security Industry 751 512 Authority Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the Serious Organised Crime 20 34 Home Department how many complaints about the Agency work of her Department and each of its agencies and Technical Advisory Board 0 0 non-departmental public bodies were received in (a) UK Border Agency 6104 serious 688 serious 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if she will make a statement. (UKBA) misconduct misconduct complaints complaints [108948] 61,182 minor 61,118 minor misconduct misconduct Damian Green: Details of those complaints received complaints complaints by the Department, its agencies and non-departmental 610,554 service 612,068 service public bodies are shown in the following table. complaints complaints 1 The totals include complaints submitted about the service provided as well as There is no centrally-held data about the number of other issues such as the retention of police records, recruitment decisions and complaints received. Available data are shown in the the eligibility criteria for CRB checks. 2 Not available. following table: 3 Figures include those for the General Register Office. 4 Complaints received by the IPCC in regard to its work and staff. Home Office/agency/non- 5 All complaints about the OISC have to be made to the parliamentary departmental public body 2010-11 2011-11 ombudsman. 6 UKBA categorises complaints from members of the public in three different Advisory Council on 00ways: Misuse of Drugs (i) Serious misconduct complaints. Allegations of any unprofessional behaviour which, if substantiated, would lead to misconduct proceedings. Animal Procedures 00 (ii) Minor misconduct complaints are usually to do with instances of rudeness Committee and unprofessional conduct which are not serious enough to warrant a formal Criminal Records Bureau 12,246 11,960 investigation. (CRB) (iii) Service complaints are related to the way that the agency works, for Criminal Records Bureau 2— 2— example, delay, lost documents or administrative failings. These complaints Independent Monitor are both about the actual service provided and the operational policies that the agency operates. HOHQ correspondence 15 4 complaints received centrally Equality and Human 80 64 Confiscation Orders Rights Commission Forensic Science 00 Regulator Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home HM Inspectorate of 01Department how many confiscation orders have been Constabulary (a) transmitted to and (b) received from other EU Identity and Passport 37,353 38,258 Service member states under EU Council Framework Decision [109356] Independent Chief 002006/783/JHA in each year since 2007. Inspector of Borders and Immigration (now known as the Independent Chief James Brokenshire [holding answer 24 May 2012]: Inspector of Borders and The UK has not implemented this Framework Decision Immigration) and so has not transmitted cases under its provisions. Independent Police 4508 4466 Complaints Commission Statistics on the number of confiscation cases received (IPCC) from EU member states since 2007 are as follows: 69W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 70W

Confiscation cases for EU countries by year James Brokenshire: All information about the number Incoming of interception warrants issued is provided by the Interception of Communications Commissioner in his 2007 1 annual reports. For the period in question, this would 2008 0 be covered within the annual report expected to be 2009 1 published in summer 2013. Past reports can be found 2010 3 via: 2011 2 www.intelligencecommissioners.com 2012 1

It is not possible to identify the instrument under Criminal Proceedings: EU Law which these requests were made to the UK. Correspondence Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department with reference to EU Council Framework Decision 2008/675/JHA, in what circumstances she Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the envisages that the UK would request special intervention Home Department how many letters to Ministers in units from other EU member states to operate on UK her Department were (a) not answered, (b) not soil. [110125] answered within six months and (c) not answered within three months in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; how many such letters were from hon. Members; and if James Brokenshire: The United Kingdom’s response she will make a statement. [109438] to any incident will be individually tailored to the nature and scale of that incident. Damian Green: Available data, for letters received Should we identify the need to seek the support of centrally in the Department, are as follows: our allies in managing a crisis situation, we would of course do so. Letters received Letters received between April 2010 and between April 2011 and Cybercrime March 2011 March 2012 In From In From general MPs general MPs Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for the Not answered 3 3 5 5 Home Department when she plans to respond to the Twelfth Report from the Science and Technology Not answered 125 54 32 6 within six Committee, Session 2010-12, on Malware and cyber months crime. [109351] Not answered 646 307 270 205 within three James Brokenshire [holding answer 24 May 2012]: months The Government responded to the report on 2 April The Cabinet Office publishes an annual report to 2012. Parliament on the performance of Departments in replying to Members’ correspondence. The report for 2011 was Databases: Telecommunications published on 15 March 2012, Official Report, columns 30-33WS. Reports for earlier years are available in the Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for the Library of the House. Home Department whether a notification under the Crime: Alcoholic Drinks Technical Standards Directive will be required prior to the implementation of the Communications Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for the Capabilities Development Programme; and if she will Home Department pursuant to the answer of 16 May place in the Library a copy of any such notification. 2012, Official Report, columns 185-90W, on alcoholic [107072] drinks, what assessment she has made of any link between the decrease in average weekly consumption in James Brokenshire: We will consider whether a the 16 to 26 age group between 2000 and 2010 and the notification under the technical standards directive is decrease in crime during this period. [108859] required and, if so, a copy will be placed in the House Library. James Brokenshire: The Home Department has not made any assessment of the link between the decrease Debts Written Off in average weekly consumption in the 16-26 age group between 2000 and 2010 and the decrease in crime during this period. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how much bad debt was written off Criminal Proceedings by her Department in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if she will make a statement. [110214] George Freeman: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department in how many criminal cases a Damian Green: The Home Office did not write off warrant has been issued to intercept the content of any bad debt in 2010-11. No figures are available for suspects’ emails in the last three months; and if she will 2011-12, as the accounts are currently being audited make a statement. [109199] and due to be published in July. 71W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 72W

Deportation: EU Nationals Decision 2006/960/JHA, also referred to as the Swedish Initiative falls within the scope of that decision and will Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the be reviewed accordingly. Home Department how many nationals of other EU member states (a) were deported from the UK to the Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for the country of their nationality and (b) faced restrictions Home Department how much her Department spent on the right of entry and the right of residence on the on the updating of published data in line with the grounds of public policy, public security or public Government’s transparency agenda in each month health under Article 27 of Directive 2004/58/EC of the since September 2011. [110708] European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 on the rights of citizens of the Union and their Damian Green: The costs of publishing data to support family members to move and reside freely within the the Government’s transparency agenda have not been territory of the member states in each of the last five disaggregated from other aspects of managing the work years. [110134] to which the data relate. In the main, they form a small proportion of those overall costs. The principal exceptions to this are the publication of financial spend data and Damian Green: In the following answer, deportations the costs of maintaining Police.uk. refers to the number of foreign national offenders removed from the United Kingdom. We have estimated that the annual cost of publishing financial spend data, at the current threshold of £25,000 In 2010-11, 5,339 foreign national offenders were and over, is £110,000. The maintenance and support removed or deported from the UK. The UK Border costs of the national crime mapping website, Police.uk, Agency (UKBA) policy is not to disclose the countries are £163,000 per annum. to which foreign national offenders are removed or deported as this could jeopardise diplomatic relations. We also publish our energy consumption data using a third party supplier: the cost of this is less than £10,000 The figures above have been obtained from electronic per annum. In all three cases, monthly figures are not management information records. Figures for the years available. prior to 2010-11 are not available. All decisions to make a deportation order against Emergency Services: Scotland EEA nationals and their family members on public policy grounds are made in accordance with the 2006 Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Regulations and, therefore, Directive 2004/58/EC. Home Department what assessment she has made of Such a decision is akin to a conducive decision under cross border issues arising from the creation of a single s.3(5)(a) of the Immigration Act 1971. A deportation (a) police force and (b) fire and rescue service in order prevents entry to the UK while it remains in force, Scotland. [107711] in accordance with section 5(1) of the Immigration Act 1971. It remains in force until it is formally revoked by Nick Herbert [holding answer 17 May 2012]: We will the UKBA. stand ready to work with the Scottish Government to ensure that there is no impact upon the operational Detention Centres: Children effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in England and Wales through the creation of the Scottish Police Service. Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether any unaccompanied The fire and rescue service in England is not the children were detained for immigration purposes in responsibility of the Secretary of State for the Home Wales in (a) 2008, (b) 2009, (c) 2010, (d) 2011 and Department. (e) up to 30 April 2012. [109237] Empty Property Damian Green: No unaccompanied children were detained for immigration purposes in Wales in the Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the period from 1 January 2008 to 30 April 2012. Home Department if she will list the empty or largely empty buildings owned by her Department; and if she will make a statement. [110845] Disclosure of Information Damian Green: The Department owns no empty or Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home largely empty buildings, except where held for purposes Department what assessment she has made of the related to national security. effectiveness of EU Council Framework Decision 2006/ 960/JHA in simplifying the exchange of information Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the and intelligence between the member states of the EU. Home Department how many buildings owned by her [109362] Department and the bodies for which she is responsible have been empty for more than two years; and if she James Brokenshire [holding answer 24 May 2012]: will make a statement. [110863] The UK must decide, no later than 31 May 2014, whether to accept full European Court of Justice jurisdiction Damian Green: The Department and the bodies for over those EU police and criminal justice measures which it is responsible own no buildings that have been adopted before 1 December 2009 which have not been empty for more than two years, except where needed on amended or replaced. This measure, Council Framework grounds of national security. 73W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 74W

Entry Clearances: Pakistan Statistics for January to December 2011 1,468 cases where the FMU have given advice or Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for support related to a possible forced marriage. the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 21 Within the UK the geographical distribution of instances May 2012, Official Report, column 434W, on entry was as follows: London .(18.9%), West Midlands (13.4%), clearances: Pakistan, what the longest time was between North West (12.7%), Yorkshire & Humberside (10.3%), the receipt by her Department of a determination allowing South East (8.9%), East of England (3.7%), East Midlands an entry clearance (a) settlement appeal and (b) appeal (3.4%), Scotland (2.3%), South West (1.4%), Wales for a family visitor and the issuing of entry clearance to (1.3%), North East (1.0%), Northern Ireland (0%) and the appellant by the British high commission in Pakistan unknown (22.6%). for entry clearances issued in (i) 2010, (ii) 2011 and (iii) 2012 to date. [110598] Statistics for January to December 2010 1,735 instances where the FMU have given advice or Damian Green: This information is not held centrally support related to a possible forced marriage. and could be collated only at disproportionate cost. Within the UK the geographical distribution of instances was as follows: London (21.4%), West Midlands (13.6%), Eurojust North West (13.6%), South East (9.1%), Yorkshire & Humberside (8.8%), East Midlands (5%), East of England Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home (3.6%), North East (3.2%), Scotland (2.7%), South Department what assessment she has made of the West (2.2%), Wales (1.1%), Northern Ireland (0.1%) effectiveness of EU Council Decision 2008/426/JHA and unknown (15.7%). on strengthening Eurojust. [109610] Statistics for January to December 2009 1,682 instances in which the FMU gave advice or James Brokenshire: The UK must decide, no later support related to possible forced marriage. than 31 May 2014, whether to accept full European Court of Justice jurisdiction over those EU police and Within the UK the geographical distribution of cases criminal justice measures adopted before 1 December where known was as follows: London (29%), North 2009 which have not been amended or replaced. This West (17%), West Midlands (14%), Yorkshire and measure, EU Council Decision 2008/426/JHA on Humberside (10%), South East (9%), East Midlands strengthening Eurojust, falls within the scope of that (7%), East of England (4%), North East, Wales, South decision and will be reviewed accordingly. West (3% each), Scotland (1%). Statistics for January to December 2008 Extradition Review 1,618 instances in which the FMU gave advice or support related to possible forced marriage. Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for the Within the UK the geographical distribution of cases Home Department what she plans to respond to the where known was as follows: London (25%), West review of the UK’s extradition arrangements by Lord Midlands (16%), North West (15%), Yorkshire and Justice Scott Baker. [110502] Humberside (10%), South East (10%), East Midlands (7%), East of England (5%), North East (4%), Wales Damian Green: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I (3%), Scotland (3%), South West (2%). gave to the right hon. Member for Leicester East (Keith Prior to 2008 the FMU only collated data on cases Vaz) on 22 May 2012, Official Report, columns 595-96W. where actual assistance was provided, which comprised the following: Forced Marriage Statistics for January to December 2007 Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for 262 cases of forced marriage, including both assistance the Home Department what estimate she has made of (168) and immigration cases (94), dealt with by the the number of forced marriages in (a) Lancashire and FMU in the UK and overseas. (b) England in each of the last five years. [108985]

Lynne Featherstone: We do not hold estimated figures Fur Trade for Lancashire and England for each of the last five years. It is difficult to estimate the scale of forced Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for the marriage in the UK. The very nature of forced marriage Home Department what recent assessment she has means that it is likely that many cases go unreported. made of the extent of the illegal animal fur trade in Research by the National Centre for Social Research London; and what plans she has to reduce such trade. commissioned by the then Department for Children, [107037] Schools and Families estimated that the national prevalence of reported cases of forced marriage in England was James Brokenshire: The Home Office has made no between 5,000 and 8,000 in 2008. recent assessment of the illegal animal fur trade in The following statistics reflect the number of cases London. The Metropolitan Police Service’s Wildlife reported to the joint Home Office and Foreign and Crime Unit is responsible for enforcing wildlife laws in Commonwealth Office Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) the London area, and reducing the trade of endangered and their regional distribution. Unfortunately we do species in London is part of their normal enforcement not hold figures specifically for Lancashire. duties. 75W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 76W

Human Trafficking Ministerial Group Specifically, the Home Office, working in partnership with a range of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for the and other partners, is using existing networks abroad to Home Department who attended the April 2012 tackle this issue. For example we have written to Foreign meeting of the Inter-Departmental Ministerial Group and Commonwealth Office (FCO) posts stationed in on Human Trafficking; what items were on the group’s identified priority countries to include human trafficking agenda at that meeting; and what conclusions were in their country business plans and to raise awareness. We have also facilitated contact between CEOP reached. [109728] International Child Protection Networks abroad and NGOs to ensure that we combine all our efforts to act Damian Green: The group discussed human trafficking early upstream on this issue. and the Olympics, its role as National Rapporteur and assessments of trends in human trafficking. It agreed The Home Office is also reviewing the information revised terms of reference to reflect its role as the available on embassy websites for people intending to National Rapporteur. A list of members and attendees travel or work in the UK, in order to raise awareness of for this meeting is provided as follows: the threat of trafficking. Inter-Departmental Ministerial Group (IDMG) on Human The Department for International Development (DFID) Trafficking is also supporting a new regional anti-trafficking project Ministerial-level meeting attendees and non-attending in South Asia, focusing especially on labour migration members of women and girls in the garment and domestic sectors in India, Bangladesh and Nepal. The programme aims 17 April 2012 to reduce trafficking of 60,000 women and girls in these Attendees: sectors over four years and the Home Office is represented Damian Green MP, Minister for Immigration (Chair) on its steering group. Tim Loughton MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State The Government is also working to raise awareness for Children and Families locally and build on the success of multi-agency child Jeremy Browne MP, Minister of State, FCO safeguarding teams at the border such as Operation Crispin Blunt MP, Minister for Justice Newbridge and Paladin by mapping the key components Baroness Hanham MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State of these models and working to ensure that intelligence for Communities structures are in place to support identification of priority David Jones MP, Wales Office threat ports. We are raising awareness of these models David Ford MLA, Northern Ireland Executive locally for example through inclusion of these good practice examples in updated guidance for practitioners Apologies: ’Safeguarding Children who may have been trafficked’. Lynne Featherstone MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of This guidance can be found at: State for Equalities and Criminal Information https://www.education.gov.uk/publications/standard/ Stephen O’Brien MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State publicationDetail/Page1/DFE-00084-2011 for International Development1 Anne Milton MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for We are also raising awareness of child trafficking as a Public Health1 form of human trafficking with the airline industry, and Chris Grayling MP, Minister for Employment1 this has successfully been tested with Virgin Atlantic. Kenny MacAskill MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Scottish Executive1 John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for the David Mundell MP, Scotland Office1 Home Department with reference to the answer of 19 Carl Sargeant AM, Welsh Assembly Government April 2012, Official Report, column 459W, on human Edward Garnier QC MP, Solicitor-General1 trafficking: children, how many UK nationals were victims of child trafficking in each year since April 1 Indicates official level deputies present at the meeting. 2009. [109595] Human Trafficking: Children Damian Green: The following data, provided by the UK Human Trafficking Centre, set out the numbers of Michael Connarty: To ask the Secretary of State for conclusive decisions made on UK minors under the the Home Department pursuant to the answer to the National Referral Mechanism (NRM), in each year for hon. Member for Burnley of 17 May 2012, Official which data are available since 2009. Report, column 256W, on human trafficking: children, what steps she is taking to (a) enhance her Department’s Victims of human trafficking—UK national minors ability to act early upstream and (b) achieve smarter Number multi-agency work at the border in order to tackle child 2009 (from 1 April) 25 trafficking. [109523] 2010 8 2011 (to 30 September) 16 Damian Green: The Government’s Human Trafficking strategy includes a number of actions designed to enhance the United Kingdom’s ability to act early and to deliver These data show the number of minors referred to smarter multi-agency working at the border to better the NRM who have received a positive Conclusive identify and protect human trafficking victims, including Grounds decision and have, therefore, been found to be child victims. a victim of trafficking. 77W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 78W

Immigration controls Immigration: Lancashire

Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for the the Home Department what arrangements her Home Department if she will estimate (a) the number Department has put in place to ensure improvement in of asylum seekers resident in and (b) the level of net the event that the UK Border Force does not meet the migration into Lancashire in the most recent period for target times for queues for entry into the UK at which figures are available. [109829] airports. [106657] Damian Green: County level data are not held in a Damian Green: Our sampling of queues shows that format compatible with National Statistics protocols. the vast majority of EEA passengers pass through However, the UK Border Agency publishes statistics immigration control quickly. However queue lengths on a quarterly and annual basis that cover all asylum have on occasions reached unacceptable levels and we applications to the UK broken down by nationality. introduced a range of measures to combat this. We will Published statistics regarding asylum applications can continue to monitor queues closely (and are developing be found in the Library of the House and by following more efficient methods for doing this), as well as reviewing this link: our performance on a regular basis. http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research- Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for the statistics/research-statistics/immigration-asylum-research/ immigration-tabs-q4-2011/asylum1-q4-2011-tabs Home Department what arrangements she is establishing to measure the length of time passengers Net migration on a national level is published on the queue at airports on arrival in the UK. [106658] Office of National Statistics website, and can be found at the following location: Damian Green: We are designing and testing better, http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/publications/re-reference- more precise ways of measuring queues, and have assembled tables.html?edition=tcm%3A77-256033 a panel of expert scientists to check our reasoning. BAA and Border Force have agreed to work in close Investigatory Powers Tribunal collaboration on this. Mr Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for the Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proportion of the passports Home Department when she expects the Investigatory presented to UK Border Agency staff at desks designated Powers Tribunal to publish its 2011 annual report; and for UK and EU passport holders which were screened if she will make a statement. [110378] under the e-passport accelerated procedure were from UK passport holders in the latest period for which James Brokenshire: The Investigatory Powers Tribunal figures are available. [107684] (IPT) is entirely independent from Government, and has no statutory obligation to produce an annual report. Damian Green [holding answer 17 May 2012]: In That said, the Government understands that the IPT April 2012, 631,383 passengers used one of the 63 will be placing statistics for cases received and resolved e-Gates at one of the 15 airport terminals equipped in 2011 on its website: with this technology. www.ipt-uk.com Of these, 478,032 passengers used a UK passport, in the near future. equating to 75.17% of passengers using an e-Gate. Khat: Smuggling Immigration Controls: Ports

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for the the Home Department how many (a) detentions and Home Department what assessment she has made of (c) customs seizures there were at UK entry ports in (i) the level of smuggling of khat from the UK by organised April 2012, (ii) April 2011 and (iii) April 2010. [108235] crime and terrorist groups. [108748]

Damian Green [holding answer 21 May 2012]: We are James Brokenshire: The Home Office has not made unable to provide any statistics for the number of detentions any formal assessment into the level of khat exportation at UK entry points. Published seizure statistics are from the UK by organised crime and terrorist groups. available on drug seizures and tobacco seizures. Data The Government is currently reviewing the case for on other commodities seized are not published. control of khat under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. The data on drug seizures are available on the Home The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs will Office website: consider all evidence on this issue available to it. Its http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research- advice will inform the Secretary of State for the Home statistics/research-statistics/police-research/hosb1711/ Department’s decision. However, please be aware that these statistics do not differentiate between the seizures made at the border Larne Detention Centre and those made inland. The data on tobacco seizures are available on the UK Naomi Long: To ask the Secretary of State for the Border Agency website: Home Department what steps she has taken to enable http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/ detainees in Larne Detention Centre to access legal aboutus/annual-level-of-tax/ advice. [110517] 79W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 80W

Damian Green: People detained at Larne House are Table 2: Club premises certificates surrendered, lapsed, withdrawn, London advised of their rights from the outset of detention. borough of Enfield, 2006-07 to 2009-10 1 2 3 They are given access to legal advice at any time during Financial year Surrendered Lapsed Withdrawn their stay at the facility. Assistance provided includes 2009-10 4 0 0 help from immigration and custody staff, and information 1 Where a club premises certificate is surrendered under section 81(3) of the leaflets and posters about how and where to access legal Licensing Act 2003. 2 Where a club premises certificates has lapsed because it had effect for a limited advice. Detainees also have free phone and internet period, but that period has since expired. access and private rooms for meetings with legal 3 Where a club premises certificate is withdrawn under section 90 of the representatives. Licensing Act 2003. Table 3: Personal Licences surrendered, revoked, forfeited, suspended by a court, Licensed Premises: Security London borough of Enfield, 2006-07 to 2009-10 Financial Suspended year Surrendered1 Revoked2 Forfeitedt3 by a court4 Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 15 May 2006-07 2 0 0 0 2012, Official Report, column 65W, on licensed 2007-08 0 0 0 0 premises: security, (1) if she will set a date by when the 2008-09 0 0 0 0 guidance will be available; [109121] 2009-10 0 0 1 0 1 Where a personal licence is surrendered under section 116 of the Licensing Act (2) whether existing guidance on false identification 2003. documents for door supervisors remains operational; 2 Where a personal licence is revoked under section 124 of the Licensing Act and if she will make a statement. [109122] 2003. 3 Where a premises licence has been forfeited following a court order under section 129 of the Licensing Act 2003 in the time period specified (and where Lynne Featherstone: Previously published guidance that order has not been suspended, pending an appeal under sections 129(4) or has been withdrawn. Therefore it does not remain 130 of the Licensing Act 2003). 4 Where a personal licence is suspended following a court order under section operational. Work continues to revise the guidance and 129 of the Licensing Act 2003 in the time period specified (and where that order it will be published shortly. has not been suspended, pending an appeal under sections 129(4) or 130 of the Licensing Act 2003). Licensing Laws: Enfield Members: Correspondence Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information her Department Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for holds on the number of alcohol licences revoked by the the Home Department when she intends to answer the London borough of Enfield since the coming into force letter from the right hon. Member for Manchester, of the Licensing Act 2003. [109487] Gorton of 16 April 2012 with regard to Mr M Ayub. [110476] James Brokenshire: The latest available information shows the number of premises licences, club premises Damian Green: I refer the right hon. Member to my certificates and personal licences surrendered, lapsed, letter of 28 May 2012. revoked, forfeited, suspended or withdrawn in the London borough of Enfield, between 1 April 2006 and 31 March 2010. These figures can be seen within the following Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for tables. They include all such authorisations for licensable the Home Department when she intends to answer the activities under the Licensing Act 2003 in the London letter from the right hon. Member for Manchester, borough of Enfield, including the sale of alcohol. Gorton of 16 April 2012 with regard to Mr SA Hasan. [110477] Table 1: Premises Licences surrendered, lapsed, suspended by a court, closure notice, London borough of Enfield, 2006-07 to 2009-10 Financial Suspended Closure Damian Green: I wrote to the right hon. Member on year Surrendered1 Lapsed2 by a court3 notice4 30 May 2012. 2006-07 23 0 0 5— 2007-08 8 1 0 0 Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for 2008-09 5 0 0 0 the Home Department when she intends to answer the 2009-10 21 8 0 0 letter from the right hon. Member for Manchester, 1 Where a premises licence is surrendered under section 28 of the Licensing Act Gorton of 18 April 2012 with regard to Mr G Fletcher. 2003. [110480] 2 Where a premises licence has lapsed due to the death, incapacity, insolvency etc. of the licence holder, as set out under section 27 of the Licensing Act 2003. Excludes instances where a premises licence was in effect for a limited period, Damian Green: I wrote to the right hon. Member on but the period has since expired (e.g. one-off events). 3 Where a premises licence is suspended by a court, under section 147B(1) of the 30 May 2012. Licensing Act 2003 (as amended by the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006) for the sale or supply of alcohol, following an offence of persistently selling to under-age children. Mutual Societies 4 Where a premises is prohibited from selling alcohol for 48 hours following a closure notice under S.169A. 5 Unknown (not collected in 2006-07). Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the Table 2: Club premises certificates surrendered, lapsed, withdrawn, London Home Department what estimate she has made of the borough of Enfield, 2006-07 to 2009-10 1 2 3 number of full-time equivalent staff who will transfer Financial year Surrendered Lapsed Withdrawn from her Department, its non-departmental public 2006-072 30 0bodies and executive agencies workforce to a mutual in 2007-08 1 0 0 (a) 2011-12 and (b) 2012-13; and if she will make a 2008-09 0 0 0 statement. [110194] 81W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 82W

Damian Green: There have been no transfers of staff the financial year 2011-12 are currently being audited to a mutual in 2011-12 from the Home Office, its and are due to be published in July. agencies or non-departmental public bodies. Passports There are no plans to transfer any staff from within the Home Office, its agencies or non-departmental public Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home bodies in 2012-13. Department what the average processing time was from time of receipt to time of dispatch to applicant for Operating Costs passport postal applications received by the Identity and Passport Service (a) in each month of the year of Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for the receipt and (b) at each passport application processing Home Department how much was spent on the facility in each of the last three years. [109734] administration of her Department in (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011-12. [109843] Damian Green: The information in the table, provided by the Identity and Passport Service shows the monthly Damian Green: The Home Office spent £190.9 million average turnaround times for applications in days for on administration in financial year 2009-10 and £180.3 each location processing postal passport applications million in financial year 2010-11. The spending data for for 2009, 2010, and 2011.

Average passport turnaround days North West East and Wales and Northern National London and Central Midlands South West Scotland Ireland North East Average

2011 December 0 6.7 6.2 2.3 1.3 3.4 5.4 5.5 November 0 8.6 8.5 2.9 1.2 8.3 7.3 7.6 October 0 5.4 5.9 1.9 1.1 5.4 6.2 5.2 September 0 3.2 3.1 1.9 3.4 3.2 3.2 2.9 August 0 6.9 7 2 3.5 5.3 6 5.8 July 0 6.9 6.9 2.2 2.7 5.4 6.8 6.3 June 0 2.7 3.1 2.7 1.3 3 3 2.9 May 0 4.4 4.1 2.6 2.1 3.8 4.4 4.1 April 2 2.1 2.2 1.9 2.2 1.8 1.9 2 March 0.5 2.4 2.9 3.6 1.7 2.5 2.6 2.7 February 1.3 1.9 2.6 2.3 2.2 2.1 2.3 2.3 January 0 2.2 2.2 2.6 1.2 2.5 2.5 2.4

2010 December 0.3 2.6 2.2 2.2 1.8 2.1 2.9 2.5 November 2.5 2 1.9 1.7 2 1.4 2.7 2.2 October 2.9 1.7 2.2 1.8 2 2.4 2 2 September 0 1.8 2.1 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.8 August 0 1.8 2.7 2.5 1.8 2.1 1.9 2.1 July 0 2.4 4.4 3.5 2.7 3.9 3.2 3.3 June 0.3 4.2 5.2 4.5 2.7 5.6 3.8 4.3 May 2.9 4.9 5.3 5.9 2.6 5.6 5.4 5.2 April 2 4.9 5.6 5.9 1.9 5.6 5.8 5.4 March 2.4 3.3 3.4 3.7 1.9 3.8 3.4 3.4 February 3.6 2.3 2.4 2.9 1.7 2.3 2.2 2.4 January 6.4 1.8 1.8 1.9 1.4 2.1 1.6 1.7

2009 December 2.3 1.8 1.7 1.8 1.4 2.3 1.6 1,8 November 1.5 2.1 2 1.5 1.1 2 1.6 1.8 October 2.2 2.4 2.2 1.5 1.5 2.1 2.1 2 September 1.2 5.5 5.7 3.8 1.9 3.6 3.7 4.3 August 0 6.1 6.1 6.2 2.3 5.4 6.2 6 July 1.5 4.9 7.1 5.6 2.8 7.5 6.1 6 June 1.9 6.2 7.2 6.4 3 8.1 6.7 6.7 May 3 4.4 4.6 3.7 2 4.6 4.6 4.3 April 1.1 3 2.6 1.8 1.4 2.8 2.4 2.4 March 1.4 1.9 2.4 1.4 2.3 3 2 2 February 0 1.7 1.9 1.2 1.9 2 1.5 1.6 January 0 1.6 1.5 1.1 2.1 1.7 1.4 1.4 83W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 84W

Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Nick Herbert: The cost of elections for Police and Department on how many occasions the Identity and Crime Commissioners in Wales and England will be Passport Service has not met its obligation in provided by central Government. This money will not applicable service level agreements on passport postal come from funds that would otherwise have gone to application turnaround times in each of the last three forces. years. [109735] Police: Court Orders Damian Green: The performance of the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) against its agreed targets is reported Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for in its annual report. Monthly performance against targets the Home Department what assessment she has made is published on the Home Office website. of the effects on her policies of the judgement on 17 Copies of the IPS annual reports for 2009-10 and May on journalistic material collected at Dale Farm 2010-11 can be found in the House Library. and the use of production orders; and whether she plans to hold a central register of (a) successful and The 2011-12 annual report will be published in summer (b) unsuccessful applications for production orders. 2012 and a copy will be placed in the House Library. [109276] Pay Nick Herbert: I have made no such assessment and have no plans to create a central register. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many staff working for her Police: Retirement Department, its executive agencies and non-departmental public bodies are employed through off-payroll engagements Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the costing less than £58,200 per annum; and if she will Home Department what discussions she has had on the make a statement. [110821] remuneration on retirement for senior police officers who have been found to have committed disciplinary Damian Green: At 31 January 2012, the Home offences. [109564] Department, including its Executive agencies and non- departmental public bodies, had 20 staff employed through Nick Herbert: The Independent Review of Police off payroll arrangements costing less than £58,200 per Officer and Staff Remuneration and Conditions annum. The reference date used is consistent with recently recommended that misconduct hearings should have published information for engagements costing more the power to remove some or all of a severance payment than £58,200 per annum. of a chief officer who has been found to have violated the relevant misconduct regulations. This has been put Police and Crime Commissioners to the Police Negotiating Board for consideration. Police: Rural Areas Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what process she has put in place in respect of the management of historic data and Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for the information held by police authorities following the Home Department what progress she has made on election of police and crime commissioners; [109565] rural policing; and if she will make a statement. (2) what procedures her Department has put in place [108083] for the wind-up of police authorities following the Nick Herbert: The Government fully recognises the election of police and crime commissioners; [109566] vulnerabilities of rural communities to particular crimes, (3) what she proposes will happen to the assets held and is committed to ensuring that policing priorities are by police authorities following the election of police focused on what matters to local people. The election of and crime commissioners. [109606] Police and Crime Commissioners in November 2012 will ensure that rural communities are given a stronger Nick Herbert: I chair the national transition board to voice in determining local policing priorities, and the manage the main transition arrangements that need to Government is providing the public with more street-level be addressed before police and crime commissioners information about crime and anti-social behaviour on a (PCCs) come into post. Each Police Authority has set monthly basis to ensure that they have the information up a transition board to prepare locally for PCCs. The to hold local forces to account. Schemes such as Farmwatch Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 will show how a local policing approach which empowers automatically transfer assets and staff employed by rural communities, working in partnership with the police authorities to PCCs. Duties to hold information police and business, can share good practice to tackle and records will also transfer and transition boards will rural crime. be making arrangements for this handover. Proceeds of Crime Police and Crime Commissioners: Wales Heidi Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for the Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Home Department pursuant to the answer of 15 May the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 22 May 2012, Official Report, column 67W, on proceeds of 2012, Official Report, column 600W, on police and crime, how the sums provided to the bodies listed were crime commissioner elections, who will be responsible used; and which local authorities received funds from for meeting the cost of police and crime commissioner assets recovered under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. elections in Wales. [110141] [109195] 85W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 86W

James Brokenshire: In 2010-11, of the sums allocated Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council under the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council relevant bodies, 94% was used on further asset recovery Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council work, 3% on crime reduction initiatives and 3% on Sheffield County Council community projects. Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council Local authorities that received funds from this scheme Staffordshire County Council in 2010-11 are as follows: Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council List of local authorities that received recovered assets in Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council 2010-11: Wakefield Metropolitan District Council Birmingham City Council Warrington Borough Council Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council West Yorkshire Joint Services Bridgend County Borough Council Wirral Borough Council Bristol City Council Worcestershire County Council Cardiff County Council Carmarthenshire County Council Jason McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Central Bedfordshire Council the Home Department (1) what her policy is on Cheshire East Borough Council distribution of the proceeds of crime; [109619] Cheshire West and Chester Council (2) what steps she takes to allow community projects City and County of Swansea to utilise the proceeds of crime. [109621] City of Stoke-on-Trent Council City of York Council James Brokenshire: Under the Asset Recovery Coventry City Council Incentivisation Scheme, frontline agencies receive 50% Cumbria County Council of the assets they recover. The use of incentive payments Denbighshire County Council is a matter for each agency but at least a portion should be used to improve performance on asset recovery and, Derbyshire County Council where appropriate, to fund local crime fighting priorities Dorset County Council for the benefit of the community. Flintshire County Council Gloucestershire County Council Jason McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Hampshire County Council the Home Department what the value was of proceeds Herefordshire Council of crime in the UK in (a) 2010 and (b) 2011. [109620] Hertfordshire County Council Kirklees Metropolitan Council James Brokenshire: The value of net receipts in England Lancashire County Council and Wales recovered under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 in 2009-10 was £153.7 million and in 2010-11 was Leeds City Council £157.6 million. The Home Office does not hold information Leicestershire County Council on Scotland and Northern Ireland as assets recovered Liverpool City Council by agencies there are returned to the devolved London Borough of Bexley Administrations. London Borough of Brent and Harrow London Borough of Bromley Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home London Borough of Camden Department what assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of EU Council Decision London Borough of Enfield 2007/845/JHA in tracing and identifying the proceeds London Borough of Hackney of crime. [109743] London Borough of Havering London Borough of Hounslow James Brokenshire: The UK must decide, no later London Borough of Lewisham than 31 May 2014, whether to accept full European London Borough of Southwark Court of Justice jurisdiction over those EU police and criminal justice measures adopted before 1 December London Borough of Sutton 2009 which have not been amended or replaced. This London Borough of Tower Hamlets measure, Council Decision 2007/845/JHA concerning London Borough of Waltham Forest cooperation between asset recovery offices of member Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council states in tracing and identifying the proceeds of crime, Newport City Council falls within the scope of that decision and will be Norfolk County Council reviewed accordingly. North Yorkshire County Council Public Expenditure Northamptonshire County Council Nottingham City Council Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for the Nottinghamshire County Council Home Department if she will publish a statement of Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council her Department’s expenditure in each of the last Plymouth City Council 36 months; and what steps she is taking to avoid an Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council annual underspend. [110080] 87W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 88W

Damian Green: The Home Office spent £10.7 billion adopted before 1 December 2009 which have not been in 2009-10 and 2010-11. Details for financial year 2011-12 amended or replaced. This measure falls within the are currently being audited and due to be published in scope of that decision and will be reviewed accordingly. July. The Home Office only publishes audited figures of its annual spend. The Home Office manages its budget Suicide: Internet tightly and in accordance with Treasury guidance on managing public money. Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for the Publications Home Department if she will give the National Crime Agency responsibility for the monitoring of suicide Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for recipe sites; and if she will make a statement. [109584] the Home Department how many (a) circulars and (b) consultation documents were issued by her Nick Herbert: The Government does not routinely Department in each of the last two years. [110508] monitor the internet and the National Crime Agency (NCA) will not be asked to do so. However, where there Damian Green: The number of circulars published on is evidence of serious, organised or complex online the Home Office website in each of the last two years is criminal activity the NCA will have the ability to lead or as follows: support an appropriate law enforcement response in 15 in 2011; and collaboration with partners. 11 in 2012 to date. The Government is committed to suicide prevention. Home Office circulars can be found at: In July 2011 the Government published a Consultation http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/about-us/corporate- on preventing suicide in England: A cross-government publications-strategy/home-office-circulars/ outcomes strategy to save lives. As part of a range of The UK Border Agency does not issue individual measures to reduce the suicide rate, the draft strategy circulars but an update for partners can be found at: highlighted the need for continuing to support the internet industry to remove content that encourages http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/ aboutus/workingwithus/ukba-news/ suicide and provide ready access to suicide prevention services. The consultation period ended on 11 October The Identity and Passport Service issued 14 circulars 2011. Around 200 responses were received from a broad in 2011 and seven in 2012 to the local registration range of organisations and individuals. The Government service. The circulars deal with operational matters and is now considering all the responses received and intends are not publicly available. to publish the final strategy later this year. The Criminal Records Bureau does not issue circulars. The number of consultation documents published on Telephone Services the Home Office website in each of the last two years is as follows: 14 in 2011; and Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many call centres provide 13 in 2012 to date. services for her Department and the bodies for which Information on Home Office publications can be she is responsible; and how many such call centres are found at: based abroad. [107010] http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/about-us/consultations/ The number of consultation documents published on Damian Green: The number of external public call the UK Border Agency (UKBA) website in each of the centres providing services on behalf of the Home Office, last two years is as follows: its executive agencies and its non-departmental public four in 2011; and bodies to the public is 51. 0 in 2012. Of the 51 external public call centres, 38 are based Information about UKBA consultations can be found abroad (and these all provide visa application services at: on behalf of the UK Border Agency for specific geographic http://www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/policyandlaw/ locations). consultations/ The Criminal Records Bureau and Identity and Passport Terrorism Service have not issued any consultations in the last two years. Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Security: Football Department what assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of the 2007 Agreement between the Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home US and the EU on the processing and transfer of Department what assessment she has made of the Passenger Name Record data in combating the threat effectiveness of EU Council Decision 2007/412/JHA in of terrorism. [109563] improving security at football matches. [109355] Damian Green: The exchange of passenger name James Brokenshire [holding answer 24 May 2012]: record data has been a useful tool in combating the The UK must decide, no later than 31 May 2014, threat of terrorism. The 2007 EU-US PNR Agreement whether to accept full European Court of Justice jurisdiction has now been superseded by the new Agreement concluded over those EU police and criminal justice measures on 26 April 2012. 89W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 90W

Theft: Metals Table 1: Proportion of theft incidents in which mobile phones were stolen, 2006-07 to 2010-11 Percentage of incidents in which a mobile phone is stolen: Anne Marie Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 the Home Department what the cost was of metal theft in (a) Newton Abbot constituency and (b) the South Theft outside a 00000 West in (i) 2010 and (ii) 2011. [108286] dwelling Note: The unweighted base refers to the number of incidents of each specified offence captured by the survey. James Brokenshire: Information on the cost of metal In 2010-11 the unweighted base for each offence type was as follows: ‘Theft theft is not collated centrally.A new recording classification from the person’, 308; ‘Other theft of personal property’, 704; ‘Theft in a for metal theft offences reported to the police commenced dwelling’, 120; and ‘Theft outside a dwelling’, 1,361. Unweighted bases for previous years will be similar for each offence type. on 1 April 2012 which will, for the first time, provide Source: accurate information, on the number of offences and Crime Survey for England and Wales where they have been committed. UK Border Agency

Graham Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for the Ian Lavery: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent discussions her Home Department what consideration she has given to Department has had with the British Transport Police bringing back in house each of the contracts currently fusion intelligence unit regarding export of stolen held between the UK Border Agency and private sector metal. [109933] providers since May 2010. [110471]

James Brokenshire: The Home Office has had a number Damian Green: Prior to contracting out a service, all of recent discussions with the British Transport Police options with regard to the delivery of that service about a range of issues involving metal theft as part of receive due consideration, including whether an in-house the process of policy development and delivery. As was solution is appropriate or not. Delivery of a service is the case with previous Administrations, it is not the contracted out to a private sector provider where it is Government’s practice to provide details of all such able to deliver the service in a more efficient way, be that meetings. based on the service cost, technical capability or capacity. Ian Lavery: To ask the Secretary of State for the Graham Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the annual outturn cost has Home Department if she will order a review into the been for each contract between the UK Border Agency export of stolen scrap metal. [109934] and private sector providers in each of the last five years. [110474]

James Brokenshire: The Home Office has no plans to Damian Green: We are unable to specifically outline, commission such a review at present. contract by contract, the annual outturn cost for each of our contracts for the past five years as this information is not centrally held. To provide this information would require us to go through each individual contract, which Theft: Mobile Phones would incur disproportionate cost. Ian Lavery: To ask the Secretary of State for the Jim Dowd: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what cost savings have been Home Department what proportion of reported achieved on each of the contracts held between the UK robberies and thefts have involved a mobile telephone Border Agency and private sector providers; and if she handset in each of the last five years. [108011] will estimate the projected cost of bringing the work in-house in each case. [110482]

James Brokenshire: The requested data are not available Damian Green: We are unable to specifically outline, from police recorded crime data collected centrally. contract by contract, the cost savings achieved in each However estimates from the Crime Survey for England one our contracts for the past five years—or the projected and Wales are provided for the proportion of thefts cost of bringing this work in-house—as this information involving mobile phones (in Table 1). It is not possible is not centrally held. To provide this information would to provide figures for robberies due to the low numbers require us to go through each of our contracts, which of this offence captured in the survey. would incur disproportionate cost. Table 1: Proportion of theft incidents in which mobile phones were stolen, 2006-07 to 2010-11 Percentage of incidents in which a mobile phone is stolen: DEFENCE 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 Cadet Forces Theft from the 34 33 34 28 29 person Other theft of 18 22 22 20 17 18. James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for personal property Defence whether he plans to increase the number of Theft in a dwelling 10 13 11 10 7 cadet forces. [110561] 91W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 92W

Mr Robathan: We are very keen to increase the number Adam Werritty of cadet forces, and in our Positive for Youth Strategy the Government committed the MOD and Department Nick Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence for Education to look at options to increase the number if he will investigate whether Mr Adam Werritty was of cadets in the MOD sponsored cadet forces. As part present at any meetings between (a) Ministers and (b) of this work the Schools Commissioner and I held a officials in his Department and representatives from scoping event with key stakeholders on 25 April 2012 Lockheed Martin to discuss the carrier variant of the and we continue to develop our options. I would like to Joint Strike Fighter. [109617] take this opportunity to thank the 26,000 adult volunteers on whose dedication and excellent leadership the cadet Mr Philip Hammond: We have no records of any forces rely. departmental meetings about the carrier variant of the Joint Strike Fighter involving Mr Werritty, Ministers Libya and Lockheed Martin. Equally, I am not aware that Mr Werrity ever attended 20. Mr Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for any meeting on the carrier variant between officials and Defence what recent representations he has received on Lockheed Martin, although it is not possible to provide the cost to the public purse of military operations in a definitive response to the question regarding officials Libya. [110563] within the Ministry of Defence without incurring disproportionate cost. Mr Gerald Howarth: We currently estimate the net additional cost of Operation ELLAMY at £199 million. Aircraft Carriers

Scottish Independence: Defence Implications Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what external assistance and technical consultancy his Department commissioned for the work to assess 21. Lindsay Roy: To ask the Secretary of State for the costs, risks and technical feasibility of fitting cats Defence what assessment he has made of the potential and traps in the carrier programme; and how much it effect on the defence industry of independence for spent on each piece of work commissioned. [109912] Scotland. [110564] Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence commissioned Nick Harvey: Scotland has a strong, skilled defence RAND Europe to provide an independent technical industrial sector which will best be served by Scotland assessment of the in-build and refit conversion strategies remaining part of the UK, which has the world’s fourth that were under development during the Queen Elizabeth largest defence budget. Class Conversion Development Phase. The cost of this EU procurement laws provide an exception to the work was £195,000 and is part of the £39 million usual procurement process where the essential interests committed to the Conversion Development programme of national security are at stake, allowing contracts to that was announced at the time of the oral statement. be placed with domestic defence contractors without a competitive process. Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Clearly, if Scotland was not part of the UK, its Defence how many staff of his Department were defence industries could not benefit from such procurement employed on a (a) part-time and (b) full-time basis on processes being used by the UK Government. work to assess the costs, risks and technical feasibility of fitting cats and traps in the carrier programme; and what estimate he has made of the cost of this work Army Regimental Structure under each category of expenditure. [109913]

22. Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State Peter Luff: Within the Ministry of Defence, the for Defence what recent discussions he has had on the conversion of the Queen Elizabeth (QE) Class aircraft structure of regiments in the Army. [110565] carriers is not considered to be a stand-alone project, but rather an extension of the core QE build project. Nick Harvey: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I The Ship Acquisition team which has responsibility for gave earlier today to the right hon. Member for Delyn delivering the QE Class, currently has 64 personnel (Mr Hanson). assigned to the carriers: of these 61 were providing support to both the core build and conversion investigations, the remaining three personnel were supporting the Scottish Independence: Royal Navy Construction conversion investigations on a full-time basis. Projects To the end of April 2012, we had committed up to £39 million on conversion appraisal investigations and Ian Murray: To ask the Secretary of State for £1 million on an Air-to-Air Refuelling Study. Defence what assessment he has made of the potential effect of independence for Scotland on Royal Navy Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for construction projects. [110566] Defence what representations Ministers in his Department have received on the technical difficulties Peter Luff: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I of converting a Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier gave today to the hon. Member for Inverclyde to a CATOBAR configuration; from whom and when. (Mr McKenzie). [110687] 93W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 94W

Peter Luff: I refer the right hon. Member to the Strength of answer I gave on 30 April 2012, Official Report, columns Commonwealth 1123-24W. and other non-UK Discussions on converting an aircraft carrier to a Establishment Strength personnel CATOBAR configuration were held on an ongoing basis with the Aircraft Carrier Alliance, the US Department Royal Engineers 9,104 9,450 500 of Defense and US industry. Royal Signals 7,619 7,545 165 Royal Logistic Corps 13,737 14,080 1,840 Royal Electrical and 8,981 9,700 420 Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Mechanical Engineers Defence how many people worked on the Concept Royal Army Medical 3,541 2,990 195 Development Phase looking at the installation of catapult Corps and arrestor gear in (a) the UK and (b) the US. Adjutant General 6,106 6,025 460 [110785] Corps Intelligence Corps 1,920 1,650 10 Peter Luff: Within the Ministry of Defence, the Brigade of Gurkhas 2,848 3,650 3,650 conversion of the Queen Elizabeth (QE) Class aircraft carriers is not considered to be a stand-alone project, The term “Commonwealth and other non-UK strength” but rather an extension of the core QE build project. comprises individuals from Commonwealth countries, The Ship Acquisition team which has responsibility for the Republic of Ireland and Nepal. delivering the QE Class, currently has 64 personnel assigned to the carriers: of these 61 were providing Armed Forces: Pensions support to both the core build and conversion investigations, the remaining three personnel were supporting the Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for conversion investigations on a full-time basis. Defence whether the (a) war and (b) disability To the end of April 2012, we had committed up to pension of a soldier is stopped if that soldier is £39 million on conversion appraisal investigations and sentenced to imprisonment following conviction of a £1 million on an Air-to-Air Refuelling Study. criminal offence. [109955] Armed Forces Covenant Mr Robathan: War disablement pensions paid under the War Pensions Scheme are normally withheld if an Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State individual’s term of imprisonment is more than 12 for Defence when his Department plans to publish the months. However, they are restored upon release and 12 next military covenant report. [110099] months of basic pension arrears paid. Mr Robathan: An interim report was published in If, as a result of the suspension of pension payments, December 2011. hardship can be proved, up to half of the pension can be paid to dependants. The first statutory report on the armed forces covenant will be published towards the end of 2012. Armed Forces: Redundancy Armed Forces: Manpower Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) whether he proposes that any personnel Defence what the (a) established strength, (b) current who have served or are serving in Afghanistan will be manning and (c) number of personnel from the made redundant as a result of his planned Army Commonwealth is in the (i) Royal Armoured Corps, (ii) restructuring; [109868] Infantry, (iii) Army Air Corps, (iv) Royal Artillery, (v) (2) whether he is taking steps to support those who Royal Engineers, (vi) Royal Signals, (vii) Royal Logistic have served or are serving in Afghanistan during his Corps, (viii) Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Army restructuring; [109872] (ix) Royal Army Medical Corps, (x) Adjutant General Corps, (xi) Intelligence Corps and (xi) Brigade of Gurkhas. (3) if he will make it his policy that personnel who [109795] are serving or who have served in Afghanistan will be protected from redundancy resulting from his Army Nick Harvey: The establishment and strength information restructuring. [109873] for the relevant Corps, as at 1 April 2012, is provided in the following table: Mr Robathan: Policy for Army redundancy states that those personnel who are deployed on combat Strength of operations that qualify for the operational allowance; Commonwealth and other are within six months of an operational allowance non-UK earning deployment; or are on their post operational Establishment Strength personnel leave at the time of notification of selection, may only Royal Armoured 5,424 5,520 290 be made redundant if they apply. We will continue to Corps/Household keep this policy under review with regard to any future Cavalry redundancies. Infantry 25,009 24,080 2,240 Army Air Corps 2,032 2,015 85 All Army personnel will be supported through the Royal Artillery 7,219 7,355 720 Army restructuring process, whether they are serving or have served in Afghanistan or not. An extensive 95W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 96W communications plan that will inform personnel of the Peter Luff: The Nuclear Weapons Capability Sustainment outcomes of the restructuring process will be implemented Programme (NWCSP) which included Project Hydrus at the appropriate time. is kept under regular review. For example, there was an internal Ministry of Defence (MOD) review held in Armoured Fighting Vehicles 2010 which informed the Strategic Defence and Security Review, a HM Treasury Major Project Review in 2011 and a further Major Project Review currently under Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for way with an HM Treasury Panel meeting planned for Defence when he expects to take a decision on the 13 June 2012. Since the decision to cancel Project Hydrus, future procurement of a further tranche of the Light neither the Atomic Weapons Establishment nor the Protected Patrol Vehicle Foxhound. [110296] MOD have conducted a specific Review, Learn, and Improve analysis of the decision to cancel Project Hydrus Peter Luff: Future tranches of the Foxhound Light at the Atomic Weapons Establishment. Protected Patrol Vehicle will be subject to confirmation of our wider requirement. An announcement regarding Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence the second tranche of Foxhound will be made shortly. how many French representatives are permanently stationed (a) at the Atomic Weapons Establishment AWE and (b) in his Department’s Strategic Systems Executive. [109624] Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) how much was spent by the Atomic Peter Luff: There is one French representative currently Weapons Establishment on research by UK universities stationed at the Atomic Weapons Establishment who is in each of the last three years; [109337] engaged on a joint UK and French hydrodynamics (2) whether research undertaken on behalf of the programme; and there are no French representatives Atomic Weapons Establishment in UK universities is currently stationed in the Chief Strategic Systems Executive. funded through his Department’s Management and Operation contract. [109338] Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when Project Pegasus at the Atomic Weapons Peter Luff: The majority of the research and development Establishment is (a) scheduled to receive Main Gate work undertaken on behalf of the Atomic Weapons approval and (b) scheduled to enter into commission. Establishment (AWE) at UK universities is funded via [109341] the Ministry of Defence (MOD)’s Management and Operations contract with AWE. In addition to this Peter Luff: Project Pegasus received Main Gate approval funding there is a short term agreement, jointly funded on 14 September 2011. On current plans, commissioning by the MOD, the Home Office and the Cabinet Office, is scheduled for January 2018, and the facility is scheduled for enhanced detection and nuclear forensics work of to be operational in December 2019. which a proportion of the agreement funds work undertaken in UK universities. Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for AWE has spent between £8 million and £9 million on Defence if he will place in the Library a copy of the payments to UK universities for research and development Memorandum of Agreement between the Atomic Weapons work undertaken on their behalf in each of the past Establishment (AWE) and the US Y-12 National Security three financial years. In addition, following an agreement complex on co-operation and exchange of information reached earlier this year, approximately £1 million over on AWE’s enriched uranium facility and Y-12’s uranium a four year period will be paid to UK universities for processing facility. [109342] work undertaken in respect of detection and nuclear forensics. Peter Luff: Information on nuclear weapons and propulsion matters is exchanged under the 1958 Mutual Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Defence Agreement Treaty (MDA) between the UK what the asset valuation of Atomic Weapons and the USA. Establishment (a) Aldermaston and (b) Burghfield is. There is no specific Memorandum of Agreement [109605] between the Atomic Weapons Establishment and the US Y-12 National Security Complex on co-operation Peter Luff: The total net book value of assets at the and exchange of information on uranium facilities. Atomic Weapons Establishment sites at Aldermaston and Burghfield, as at 31 March 2012, was £2.172 billion. Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Of this amount, it is assessed that £1.707 billion relates Defence on which dates representatives of the Government to assets at Aldermaston, and £465 million at Burghfield. have met representatives of the US administration to This includes an apportionment of assets under discuss co-operation on the enriched uranium facility at construction that are valued at £1 million or below, the Atomic Weapons Establishment and the uranium which have not yet finally been attributed to either site. processing facility at the Y-12 National Security Complex; and if he will place a copy of the minutes of such Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence meetings in the Library. [109343] whether (a) the Atomic Weapons Establishment and (b) his Department have conducted a Review, Learn, Peter Luff: There have been no meetings between and Improve analysis of the decision to cancel Project Government representatives from the UK and the US Hydrus at the Atomic Weapons Establishment. [109623] on this matter. 97W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 98W

However there are regular routine lower level discussions Mr Philip Hammond: The annual cost of the British between staff of Atomic Weapons Establishment and military bases in Cyprus, based on expenditure in 2011-12 their US counterparts. is set out in the following table. Each category is rounded to the nearest £5 million. Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many representatives of the US administration Category Expenditure (£ million) are permanently stationed at (a) the Atomic Weapons Personnel 130 Establishment and (b) his Department’s Strategic Systems Inventory/other consumption 10 Executive. [109344] Other cash RDEL costs 10 Peter Luff: There are no representatives from the US Facilities Management 30 administration permanently stationed at the Atomic Minor New Works 35 Weapons Establishment. Total 215 The Polaris Sales Agreement 1963, as modified in 1982, mandates that both the UK and US have liaison Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for representatives in support of their nuclear weapons Defence what his Department has spent on housing for programmes in each other’s nations. In the UK Ministry service personnel in Cyprus since May 2010. [109780] of Defence, the Chief Strategic Systems Executive area has one US Navy Commander as the US liaison officer, Mr Robathan: The total amount spent on service who is assisted by four civilians from the US Department family accommodation in Cyprus since May 2010 to of the Navy. date is some £67 million, including new build projects Chiefs of Staff and facilities management.

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects the next (a) First Sea Lord Defence what the cost to the public purse was of the and (b) Chief of the Air Staff to assume their roles. review of British military bases in Cyprus conducted [109562] by Lord Ashcroft of Chichester. [109808]

Mr Robathan: Appointments to the posts of Chiefs Mr Philip Hammond: There were no additional costs of Staff will be published in due course in the normal to the Ministry of Defence other than minimal travel way. and subsistence costs. Lord Ashcroft of Chichester, as independent adviser to the study, received no remuneration Chinook Helicopters from the public purse.

Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to his statement of 14 May 2012, Defence whom Lord Ashcroft of Chichester consulted Official Report, columns 261-65, on what the projected as part of his review of British military bases in manufacture costs of the 14 new Chinooks announced Cyprus. [109809] in the Ministry of Defence budget is. [109720] Mr Philip Hammond: Lord Ashcroft of Chichester Peter Luff: The approved level of funding for the and the Cyprus review team consulted widely with a 14 Chinook Mk 6 aircraft (excluding support costs) is number of organisations, international bodies and partners £841 million inclusive of VAT. This includes the contract as well as within the Ministry of Defence and other with Boeing for the development and manufacture of Government Departments. the aircraft and other contracts, for example, to support test and evaluation activities and the safe introduction to service of the aircraft. The total value of the procurement, Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for including the first five years of support costs, is Defence how many service personnel are currently approximately £1 billion. stationed in British military bases in Cyprus; and how many are planned to be stationed there in May (a) Complaints 2013, (b) 2014 and (c) 2015. [109811]

Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Mr Philip Hammond: There are around 2,700 service how many complaints about the work of his Department personnel based in British Forces Cyprus. This figure is and each of its agencies and non-departmental public subject to variation as personnel change location, units bodies were received in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; rotate or personnel are deployed on operations. and if he will make a statement. [108944] There are currently no plans to significantly vary the number of service personnel based in Cyprus. Mr Robathan: This information is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Debts Written Off Cyprus: Military Bases Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much bad debt was written off by his Defence what the annual cost is of the British military Department in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if he bases in Cyprus by type of expenditure. [109810] will make a statement. [110219] 99W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 100W

Mr Philip Hammond: Information on bad debts written also resources the further stages of Scout Specialist off is published in the Ministry of Defence annual Vehicle manufacture, and in due course a Utility Vehicle report (see Note 11 for 2010-11). and improvements to Challenger 2. The figure for 2011-12 will be included in the 2011-12 The Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. annual report, which is due for publication before the Friend the Member for Runnymede and Weybridge summer recess. (Mr Hammond), made clear in his statement to the House on 14 May 2012, Official Report, columns 261-64, Defence: Fuels that, in order to avoid a repeat of the mistakes of the past, the MOD will not commit funding to programmes before it is necessary to do so. Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when his Department expects to make a Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for decision on the future management of the fuel storage Defence what revisions his Department has made to the and distribution facility at Yonderberry managed by funding profile of the Solomon programme following Defence Fuels Group. [109518] Defence Intelligence provision of a Single Intelligence requirements definition paper which aligned the provision Peter Luff: The facility at Yonderberry is part of the of capability to desired military requirements in 2015 naval oil fuel depot (OFD) at Thanckes. Responsibility and 2020. [109515] for management and operation of OFD Thanckes transferred from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Defence Peter Luff: Over the last two planning rounds, the Fuels Group to the Oil and Pipelines Agency in summer Solomon funding profile has been refined to closely 2011 although the site remains in MOD ownership. The match the Ministry of Defence’s Capability Management Oil and Pipelines Agency is a public corporation sponsored plan to provide enabling intelligence, surveillance, target by the Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. acquisition and reconnaissance capabilities to the Defence Friend the Member for Runnymede and Weybridge Intelligence community. (Mr Hammond). Provisions for the possible sale of the agency are contained within the recently published draft Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Bill. Defence pursuant to the answer of 23 May 2012, Official Report, column 721W, on defence: procurement, what Defence: Procurement assumption was made in Planning Round 2012 of the annual increase after 2015 in his Department’s spending other than on equipment and equipment support. Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for [110648] Defence pursuant to the oral statement of 14 May 2012, Official Report, column 262, on defence budget Mr Philip Hammond: In Planning Round 12 we assumed and transformation, over what period the equipment that spending other than on equipment and equipment and support budget is balanced. [109464] support would remain flat in real terms from 2014-15 to the end of the 10 year PR period. Mr Philip Hammond: The budget is balanced over the 10-year planning cycle. This runs from financial year Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for 2012-13 to financial year 2021-22. Defence pursuant to the answer of 23 May 2012, Official Report, column 721W,on defence: procurement, whether Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for additional funding will be provided by HM Treasury to Defence pursuant to his oral statement of 14 May 2012, cover the cost of the assumed 1 per cent annual increase Official Report, column 262, on defence budget and to the equipment and equipment support budget from transformation, what the remaining 55% of his 2015. [110650] Department’s total budget is worth over the corresponding Peter Luff: Yes. period. [109465] Falkland Islands: Rescue Services Mr Philip Hammond: Based on an agreed planning assumption, 55% of the defence budget in financial Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence year 2021-22 will be around £22.5 billion. However, the if he will ensure that there is military support helicopter actual budget will be set during future spending reviews. provision available in the Falkland Islands once the search and rescue privatisation has been completed; Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for and if he will make a statement. [109583] Defence pursuant to the oral statement of 14 May 2012, Official Report, column 263, on Defence budget Nick Harvey: The Ministry of Defence is currently and transformation, which armoured fighting vehicles examining the provision of support helicopter capability are included in his plans. [109484] in the Falkland Islands from 2016 onwards. This work is at an early stage and no decisions have been taken. Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) plans to spend some £5.5 billion on the Army’s core armoured Future Large Aircraft vehicle programme over the next 10 years. Within this programme, we have already approved the demonstration Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for and manufacture of the Warrior Capability Sustainment Defence what assessment he has made of the effect on Programme and the Demonstration Phase of the Scout delivery of the propeller gear box problems affecting Specialist Vehicle. The armoured vehicle programme A400M aircraft. [110062] 101W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 102W

Peter Luff: The A400M development fleet continues Jim Dobbin: To ask the Secretary of State for to undergo rigorous testing, including that of the engine Defence what the recent activity of the Royal Navy has and gearbox, as part of the ongoing flight test programme been in response to the actions of the Spanish Guardia leading to civil and military certification. During a Civil in British Territorial Waters off Gibraltar; and if planned flight from South East Asia back to Europe, he will make a statement. [109543] there was a gearbox incident which resulted in the automated shutdown of the engine. The aircraft landed Nick Harvey: The Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron safely in Oman where a replacement engine was delivered will continue to deter and challenge all marine incursions and fitted, after which the aircraft continued its journey which threaten the integrity of British Gibraltar Territorial back to its base in France. Detailed investigation work Waters. In line with standing orders, appropriate warnings into the cause of the problem is under way, the outcome have been issued in response to each recent incursion. of which will be reported to A400M nations. The current The Ministry of Defence remains absolutely committed assessment by Airbus Military (the prime contractor) is to ensuring the defence and security of Gibraltar, its that this incident will not have any impact on either residents and British Gibraltar Territorial Waters. aircraft production activities or the delivery schedule. Jim Dobbin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many times vessels from the Spanish Germany: Armed Forces Guardia Civil have entered British Territorial Waters or any Gibraltarian port in the last seven days. [109544] Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what progress he has made in re-basing those Nick Harvey: Between 21 May and 28 May 2012, elements of the armed forces currently based in Guardia Civil vessels entered British Gibraltar Territorial Germany. [109914] Waters 38 times. Of these 29 were ″innocent passages″ as defined in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Nick Harvey: The process of rebasing the armed The remaining nine were subject to appropriate warnings forces currently stationed in Germany began with the by the Royal Navy and protests through diplomatic BORONA programme, which will rationalise the Germany channels. estate with the closure of Rhine Garrison and Minister Station, and the consequent relocation of units both Harrier Aircraft within Germany and the UK. The BORONA programme is on track to deliver the moves by summer 2015 as Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for planned. Defence how many redundancies were made in the (a) The Army announced in November 2011 a number Royal Navy, (b) RAF and (c) MOD civilian of initial moves including moves following units, currently workforce following the Government’s decision to sell based in Germany, back to the UK: the Harrier fleet. [109077] 7 Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps from Bielefeld to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore in summer 2013 Nick Harvey: 12 former Royal Navy Harrier pilots 43 Close Support Squadron, Royal Logistic Corps from Gutersloh have been made redundant following retirement of the to Abingdon in January 2012. Harrier fleet. It is not possible to attribute other Royal The timing of further moves is dependent on the Navy, RAF or Ministry of Defence civilian staff departures announcement of the Army’s work on restructuring solely to the decision to sell the Harrier fleet as other and the subsequent basing discussions. issues, including the Government’s decision to reduce service and MOD civilian manpower, were taken into account in calculating the numbers for redundancy and Gibraltar: Spain Voluntary Early Release.

Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for HMS Plymouth Defence (1) what steps the Royal Navy has taken in response to incursions into the waters around Gibraltar Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for between 14 and 20 May 2012; [109413] Defence what information his Department holds on the (2) what his policy is on intervention by the Royal present structural condition of HMS Plymouth. Navy in the event of an incursion into the waters [109859] around Gibraltar by the Guardia Civil; [109414] Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence holds no current (3) what standing orders are given to Royal Navy information about the structural condition of the former vessels charged with protecting and patrolling the HMS Plymouth, a Rothesay Class 12 Frigate, which left waters around Gibraltar. [109415] service with the Royal Navy in 1988 and was subsequently sold. Nick Harvey [holding answer 24 May 2012]: A part of the Royal Navy’s role in Gibraltar is to deter and challenge all marine incursions which threaten the integrity Horn of Africa of British Gibraltar territorial waters. In line with standing orders, appropriate warnings have been issued in response Alun Michael: To ask the Secretary of State for to each recent incursion by Spanish state vessels. In Defence what support his Department plans to provide addition, protests are being made through diplomatic to Somaliland and countries in the Horn of Africa in channels. the remainder of this Parliament. [110554] 103W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 104W

Mr Gerald Howarth: The Ministry of Defence plans Meetings to continue its close engagement with the Somaliland Army and Coastguard, building capacity in Somaliland’s Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence institutions as a priority. The UK will continue to play a on what dates (a) he, (b) Ministers and (c) senior major role in the growing international efforts to bring officials in his Department have met representatives of peace and stability to all areas of Somalia and the Horn (i) the Institute for Public Policy Research, (ii) the of Africa region. Taxpayers’ Alliance, (iii) the Institute of Economic Affairs, (iv) ResPublica, (v) the Centre for Social Justice Israel and (vi) Policy Exchange; and if he will publish the minutes and agendas of these meetings. [108973] Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he has taken to ensure products Mr Philip Hammond: Details of Ministers’ and the from illegal Israeli settlements are not purchased by most senior officials’ meetings with external organisations (a) his Department and (b) the armed forces, whether are published on a quarterly basis and can be accessed directly or through third parties. [109477] on the MOD website at: http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/ Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) follows CorporatePublications/FinancialReports/Expenses/ UK and EU guidelines when purchasing goods and I have attended a dinner organised by Policy Exchange services from suppliers: these guidelines do not currently for the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dempsey. We differentiate between products emanating from Israel or are not aware of any other meetings held by Ministers the Occupied Palestinian Territories. with any of the six named organisations.

Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft Members: Correspondence

Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what role the National Security Council Defence with reference to the answer of 30 April 2012, played in the decision to procure the short takeoff and Official Report, column 716W, on the Armed Forces, vertical landing variant of the Joint Strike Fighter. when he plans to write to the hon. Member for [109915] Houghton and Sunderland South. [109336]

Peter Luff: The National Security Council took the Mr Robathan: I have arranged for the requested decision to revert to the short take off vertical landing information to be placed in the Library of the House variant having taken into account the recommendation today. of the Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for Runnymede and Weybridge (Mr Hammond). Military Aircraft

Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many units of the F35B his Department Defence when he expects the Joint Precision Aerial plans to procure; and over what period. [110784] Delivery System to be in operation. [110585]

Peter Luff: The Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) programme Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence is planning for is currently within the Development Test phase. The the Joint Precision Aerial Delivery System to enter Ministry of Defence is following an incremental acquisition service in Afghanistan in August 2012. Delays to the policy for JSF. The overall numbers of F35B aircraft procurement of this capability were partly due to will not be determined before the next Strategic Defence complications in receiving the release of critical software and Security Review at the earliest. from overseas.

Littoral Warfare Military Aircraft: Training

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the total cost was of the Goalkeeper Defence how many service personnel his Department weapon system purchased for Albion Class plans to train to operate STOVL aircraft. [108872] amphibious assault vessels. [110057] Peter Luff [holding answer 22 May 2012]: Planning Peter Luff: The Goalkeeper close-in weapons system for the training of service personnel to operate the entered service with the Royal Navy in 1989. The total Short Take Off Vertical Landing variant of the Joint purchase price of the Goalkeeper weapon system that is Strike Fighter (JSF) aircraft is under way but final now carried on the Albion class of vessels was around numbers will depend on the total number of JSF aircraft £33 million. This figure is based on the 1989 purchase to be acquired and this will not be confirmed until the cost (at historic outturn prices) and includes the purchase completion of the next Strategic Defence Review in cost of the Goalkeeper systems and the Gun Magazine 2015 at the earliest. There will be a sufficient number of Loading systems that operate alongside it. The historical trained pilots to operate the aircraft when they enter costs for on-board spares and ship fitting are not held. service. 105W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 106W

Military Bases NATO: Armed Forces

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much his Department has budgeted for Defence how he plans to work with his NATO conversion of RAF bases to accommodate troops counterparts to achieve the goals of the Connected returning from Germany and Cyprus (a) up to 2015 Forces Initiative. [109792] and (b) between 2015 and 2020. [109373] Nick Harvey: NATO Defence Ministers meet regularly to review progress across a number of areas within the Mr Robathan: Determining the cost of accommodating Alliance. The next formal meeting of all the Defence troops returning from Germany and Cyprus is part of Ministers is in October 2012 and will include reports on ongoing work on the future structure of the Army, but how issues, such as the Connected Forces Initiative, are significant savings are expected to be made. being implemented by the Allies. NATO: Unmanned Air Vehicles Mutual Societies Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Defence (1) what consideration he has given to what estimate he has made of the number of full-time becoming a full member of the NATO Allied Ground equivalent staff who will transfer from his Department, Surveillance System; [109789] its non-departmental public bodies and executive agencies (2) if he will estimate the value of UK industrial workforce to a mutual in (a) 2011-12 and (b) 2012-13; participation in the NATO Allied Ground Surveillance and if he will make a statement. [110199] System; [109790] (3) how much has been spent on the NATO Allied Mr Robathan: No mutuals have been created by the Ground Surveillance System project to date. [109791] Ministry of Defence or the non-departmental public bodies it sponsors and no proposals are being taken Nick Harvey: Our requirements for airborne surveillance forward. As a result, there were no staff transfers in are met mainly by the SENTINEL system which has 2011-12 and we do not expect there to be any this year. been in service since 2009 and provides a capability comparable to the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) system. SENTINEL has been accepted by NATO NATO as a contribution in kind to its wider surveillance requirements. We have not, therefore, elected to join the 14-nation Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for consortium that is acquiring AGS, and have no visibility Defence what NATO standardisation agreements the of the expenditure incurred. UK is party to. [109767] In accordance with NATO convention, only nations that contribute directly to the financing of a capability Nick Harvey: The UK has ratified and is fully are entitled to share in the industrial benefits. implementing 744 Standardisation Agreements (STANAGS) within the current NATO portfolio and Navy: International Co-operation has ratified and is implementing with reservations a further 198. Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence with which other navies Royal Navy vessels Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for can operate a network-enabled data exchange. [109772] Defence how the UK will achieve the NATO Smart Defence initiative for organising theatre entry points Peter Luff: The Royal Navy can operate with a range for allies. [109768] of network-enabled data exchange systems with other international navies ranging from internet-based systems Nick Harvey: This UK-led initiative will lead to the to bespoke military-protected networks with closer coalition establishment of a NATO team that is able to deploy allies. The systems used for such communications will rapidly to establish and co-ordinate a port of vary according to the navy in question and the nature of disembarkation (sea, land or air) for Allied operations. the information exchanged. A statement of requirement has been agreed for the Nimrod Aircraft aerial port element of the programme, which will act as the initial proof of principle for multinational co-operation in this area before the work is broadened out to meet Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for the full requirement. Defence if he will estimate the cost to the public purse of dismantling the Nimrod MRA4 fleet by Metal and Waste Recycling Limited. [109083] Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which NATO (a) education and (b) training Peter Luff: The Nimrod MRA4 airframes were institutes are located in the UK. [110045] dismantled on the Ministry of Defence (MOD)’s behalf by Metal and Waste Recycling Ltd at a cost of around Mr Gerald Howarth: There are no NATO education £500,000. As part of the contractual arrangements with or training institutes located in the UK. the company, the MOD received receipts from the sale 107W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 108W of the dismantled airframes to the value of just over Substantive answer from Peter Luff to Caroline Lucas: £1 million. We expect to save around £2 billion by not I undertook to write to you in response to your bringing Nimrod MRA4 into service. parliamentary question answered on 21 May 2012, Official Report, column 440W about the disclosure of Ordnance Nuclear Weapons Board Report Board Project G/220A dated 23 February 1982. Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for The document has been retrieved and, because the Defence what the terms of reference were for the review document is classified, a review board has been conducted of the Nuclear Weapons Capability Sustainment to consider whether the Ordnance Board Report Board Programme in 2010; what changes were made to the Project G/220A dated 23 February 1982 can be released programme as a result of the review; and what savings into the public domain. The review board concluded that in costs have been made as a result of the review. the report can now be released for the following reasons: [109339] The system referred to in the report is due to be taken out of service by January 2013 at which point the report would have Peter Luff: The terms of reference were to re-validate become unclassified. the programme, policy assumptions and cost of the The system is not used within the UK, but is held as a standby Nuclear Warhead Capability Sustainment Programme system in other areas of the world. It is expected to be superseded and to review programme risk against Continuous At by a new weapon and ammunition in the near future and is Sea Deterrence. This study was completed in preparation therefore unlikely to be used. for the Trident Value for Money Review, the conclusions Records indicate that, in 2001, a review was conducted of which were reported in the Strategic Defence and to determine whether some or all of the information Security Review 2010. requested by Kevin McNamara MP could be released. The results of the review concluded that disclosure of Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for this information would harm the conduct of international Defence when the safety case for the road transport of relations or affairs. Accordingly, the document was nuclear weapons was last amended and approved. withheld under Exemption 1 of the Code of Practice on [109340] Access to Government Information, which relates to defence, security and international relations but records Peter Luff: The Transport Operational Safety Case do not indicate whether a copy of the outcome of the for the Truck Cargo Heavy Duty Mark 3 (TCHD Mk3) review was placed in the Library at the time. vehicle for the road transportation of Defence Nuclear A copy of the report has now been placed in the Material was approved on 21 July 2011; the vehicle Library of the House. entered into service shortly afterwards. This was the first Transport Operational Safety Case written for the Patrol Craft TCHD Mk3 vehicle and has not required an amendment since its approval. Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the total cost was for the Scanter 4100 air Operating Costs search radar purchased for the River Class Offshore Patrol Vessel. [110061] Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much was spent on the administration of Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has not his Department in (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) purchased Scanter 4100 radars for its River Class Offshore 2011-12. [109842] Patrol Vessels. HMS Clyde, the only River Class Offshore Patrol Vessel to be fitted with the Scanter 4100 air Mr Philip Hammond: This information can be found search radar, is owned by BAE Systems and is chartered in the Ministry of Defence’s annual report and accounts by the MOD. BAE Systems supply the capability against for 2009-10 and 2010-11. the Department’s requirement, an element of which is The annual report and accounts for financial year the provision of an air surveillance radar capability. 2011-12 will be published this summer. Private Finance Initiative Ordnance Board: Disclosure of Information Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the annual private finance initiative Defence with reference to the answer of 16 October payment was to (a) SD Marine Services Ltd and (b) 2001, Official Report, column 1141W, on the Ordnance Smit Ltd in each of the last three years. [110055] Project Board, if he will place in the Library a copy of the Ordnance Board Report Board Project G/220A Peter Luff: The private finance initiative contract dated 23 February 1982; for what reasons no letter was with SD Marine Services Ltd is for the provision of placed in the Library by his Department on the review marine services under which the company provides conducted to determine whether some or all of the in-port and out of port services to the Royal Navy and information could be released into the public domain; other Ministry of Defence customers. and if he will make a statement. [107816] Smit International (Scotland) Ltd has been contracted to provide Range Services and Aircrew Training through Peter Luff: The information will take time to locate a separate PFI contract. Payments against the private and review. I will write to the hon. Member as soon as it finance initiative contracts in the last three calendar is available. years are shown in the following table: 109W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 110W

Mr Philip Hammond: To deal with the fiscal situation £ million (excluding VAT) that the Government inherited the 2010 spending review Company 2009 2010 2011 announced an 8% real-terms reduction in the defence SD Marine 65.5 66.5 65.3 budget by 2014-15. This has meant that difficult decisions Services Ltd have had to be taken to reduce spending over the period Smit 6.1 6.4 6.7 to 2015. The Ministry of Defence budget is now balanced, International taking account of the SR10 settlement and the decisions Ltd taken since SR10 announcement.

Public Expenditure Public Sector Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will publish a statement of his Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Department’s expenditure in each of the last 36 how many new public sector mutuals were created or months; and what steps his Department is taking to spun-off by his Department in (a) 2010-11 and (b) avoid an annual underspend. [108810] 2011-12; and if he will make a statement. [108911]

Mr Philip Hammond: Monthly expenditure is published Mr Philip Hammond: No mutuals have so far been by the Treasury. It is available at the following website created or spun off from MOD. address: http://data.gov.uk/dataset/coins The Ministry of Defence actively manages in-year RAF Leuchars expenditure to avoid significant underspending. However, tight financial management means avoiding overspending Sir Menzies Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State in year and a modest underspend may be unavoidable for Defence (1) whether Air Traffic Control radar services as it is not possible with a budget the size of MOD’s to at RAF Leuchars will cease in the event that there is a hit the budget target exactly. drawdown of the Typhoon force at the station; [108219] (2) when he plans to make an announcement on the Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for future use of RAF Leuchars by his Department. Defence whether that part of his Department’s budget [108221] that is outside the equipment and support budget will be subject to a rise of one per cent above inflation in Nick Harvey: No decisions have yet been made on each year from 2015 onwards. [108991] whether an Air Traffic Control radar service will be retained at Leuchars. Work is continuing on the Mr Philip Hammond: Only the Ministry of Defence’s Department’s footprint strategy and further announcements equipment and support budget is subject to the planning will be made when that work is complete. assumption, agreed with Her Majesty’s Treasury, of a 1% per annum real terms increase between 2015 and 2020. Sir Menzies Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what estimate his Department has made of Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for the cost of the Typhoon simulator at RAF Leuchars. Defence what estimate he has made of the likely [108220] growth rate of his Department’s budget outside his Department’s equipment budget from 2015 onwards. Nick Harvey: Two Typhoon Emulated Deployable [109228] Cockpit Trainers were originally procured in 2005, and later installed at RAF Leuchars, at a combined cost of Mr Philip Hammond [holding answer 24 May 2012]: approximately £4 million. Planning is now under way Our current planning assumption is that non-equipment for the move of existing Typhoon elements from RAF spending will remain unchanged, in real terms, from Leuchars to RAF Lossiemouth. 2015. The budget beyond 2015 will be set during the next spending review. Rescue Services This assumption together with the assumption agreed with HMT that equipment spending will increase in real terms by 1% per annum between 2015 and 2020, reflect Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence the requirement set out at the time of the strategic with reference to the answer of 30 April 2012, Official defence and security review (SDSR) that defence spending Report, column 1129W, on rescue services, how many would need to rise in real terms after the current spending (a) training and (b) flying hours per month have been review period to deliver the SDSR and Future Force undertaken by individual members of search and 2020. rescue crews in the latest period for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement. [109120] Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will ensure that his Department’s budget Nick Harvey: This information is not held centrally outside the Committed Core Equipment programme and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. will be protected from real terms reduction in the All flying activity, including operational flying, contains period up to 2015. [110060] a training element. 111W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 112W

RM Condor SD Marine Services

Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for (1) what investigations his Department has undertaken Defence how many SD Marine Services Ltd vessels of to assess radium contamination at RM Condor; each type are based in each location in Scotland. [109455] [110054] (2) what permanent monitoring and reporting mechanisms are in place to assess levels of measurable Peter Luff: The type of vessels operated by SD Marine radium contamination at and in the vicinity of RM Services Ltd in support of the Ministry of Defence, and from which location, are shown in the following table. Condor; [109456] (3) how many personnel are engaged in the Location Type Quantity monitoring of radium contamination at RM Condor. [109457] Her Majesty’s Naval Sewage/Sullage Barge 2 Base (HMNB) Clyde (4) whether he has received any reports of HMNB Clyde Water Barge 1 measurable radium contamination within the curtilage HMNB Clyde Water Lighter 2 of RM Condor; [109469] HMNB Clyde Pilot Tender 2 (5) what investigations his Department has undertaken HMNB Clyde Class IX Tugs 8 to assess whether there has been occurrence of measurable HMNB Clyde Damen Crew Transfer Vessel 1 radium contamination in areas beyond the curtilage of HMNB Clyde Fleet Tender—O Class— 2 RM Condor. [109470] Passenger Ship HMNB Clyde Moorings 1 HMNB Clyde Torpedo Recovery, Mine- 1 Mr Robathan [holding answer 24 May 2012]: As laying and Diving Support specified in the Contaminated Land Regime, the Vessel identification of radioactive contaminated land falls to HMNB Clyde Worldwide Support Ship 1 the regulatory authorities and not the Ministry of Defence Kyle of Lochalsh Tug—Class IX Tug 1 (MOD). Kyle of Lochalsh Trials Support Vessel 1 Where former MOD sites are identified as contaminated, Kyle of Lochalsh Diving Support Vessel— 2 the MOD remains committed to voluntarily assisting Class IX the relevant authorities, without prejudice, in fulfilling Kyle of Lochalsh Multi Cat Barge 1 their statutory duties, for which they are funded. Kyle of Lochalsh Trials Support Vessel 1 The MOD undertook a Phase 1 Land Quality Assessment (LQA) for RM Condor in 2008, and a Sea King Helicopters Phase 2 LQA in 2011. The LQAs identified localised radium contamination within the boundary of RM Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for Condor, of which the Scottish Environment Protection Defence whether he has decided on a replacement for Agency (SEPA) are aware. the Sea King helicopters. [110586] Suitable and sufficient management measures remain in place to ensure the contamination in question does Peter Luff: The Sea King helicopter delivers a range not pose a significant potential of harm to site staff. of capabilities and when all variants are withdrawn Plans are being progressed with SEPA to facilitate its from service in 2016 the Department will look to a removal. No requirement for permanent monitoring combination of existing platforms and alternative means has been identified. to replace it. The Department of Transport is currently running a competition for a UK-wide service contract to provide Royal Fleet Auxiliary Search and Rescue services when the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) fleet of Sea King Mk 3, 3a and 5 Search and John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Rescue helicopters retire. The MOD is also examining Defence how many reviews of the Royal Fleet alternative means of replacing the Sea King search and Auxiliary have been conducted by his Department rescue capability in the Falkland Islands. since 1982; and what the cost was of conducting each The Merlin Mk3/3a will replace the Sea King Mk4 review. [R] [109633] role with the Commando Helicopter Force. The newly upgraded Merlin Mk 2 will be capable of fulfilling Nick Harvey: Since 1982 there have been five reviews several roles, including provision of the Airborne focusing on different elements of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Surveillance and Control capability previously provided (RFA) such as manning, pay and capability. The majority by the Sea King Mk7. of the costs associated with these reviews have formed part of normal business and were not captured separately. Sea Wolf Missiles The most recent Value for Money Review considered the full range of RFA activity, for which a commercial Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for company supported one element of the review. I am Defence what his Department’s current inventory of withholding the information as its disclosure would operational Sea Wolf missiles is; and if he will make a prejudice commercial interests. statement. [110277] 113W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 114W

Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence does not comment (2) if he will undertake a comparative review of the on the specific number of its weapon systems as disclosure UK’s strategic requirement for (a) UK flagged merchant would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, vessels and (b) UK merchant seafarers in (i) 1982 and effectiveness or security of the armed forces. There are (ii) 2012; and if he will make a statement. [109685] sufficient Sea Wolf Missiles to fulfil the Department’s operational and training commitments until the missile system’s out of service date. Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence defines the required level of strategic sealift based on policy requirements. Shipping For the movement of cargo by sea, strategic support is primarily provided through the private finance initiative (PFI) Strategic Sealift Service, which comprises a number John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for of British flagged roll-on/roll-off vessels, manned by Defence how many reviews of his Department’s merchant British officers and crews. Should the demand for sealift shipping needs have been conducted since 1982; and exceed the capacity of the Strategic Sealift Service, how many officials in (a) his Department and (b) the suitable merchant ships are chartered from the commercial Department for Transport and predecessor departments market by means of competitive tender and contracts worked on each review. [R] [109634] awarded on the basis of value for money.

Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence reviewed the Commercial tenders are evaluated against strict criteria needs for merchant shipping as part of the strategic to ensure that the vessels are classified in accordance defence review in 1998 and as part of the strategic with the International Association of Classification defence and security review in 2010. The subject was Societies as recognised by the Maritime Coastal Agency. also examined by the House of Commons Defence In addition, the material condition of vessels is assessed Committee in July 2007. These studies examined a wide against the black, grey and white lists, as defined in the range of issues, not just merchant shipping needs, and it Paris memorandum of understanding. These are used is not practical to determine the number of officials to monitor and record standards of the mercantile who worked on each one. marine. The importance of crews’ nationality varies according to the task. For example, it is an important factor in assessing security and force protection requirements Thomas Docherty: To ask the Secretary of State for and crews’ likely willingness to transit a war-like zone. Defence when his Department last reviewed the UK’s strategic requirements for merchant vessels; what We have no plans to undertake a comparative review conclusions were reached; and if he will place a copy of of UK merchant vessels. any such conclusions in the Library. [109681] Tomahawk Missiles Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence last reviewed its requirements for strategic sealift in autumn 2011. This concluded that four roll-on-roll-off vessels provide the Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for optimum requirement. Defence what his Department’s current inventory of operational Tomahawk missiles is; and if he will make Thomas Docherty: To ask the Secretary of State for a statement. [110278] Defence what recent assessment his Department has made of the availability of British merchant seafarers Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence does not comment to operate merchant vessels requisitioned to respond to on the specific number of its weapon systems as disclosure a (a) national emergency, (b) international incident would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, and (c) military attack; and whether he holds regular effectiveness or security of the armed forces. Existing discussions on such matters with the Secretary of State stocks of Tomahawk are sufficient to fulfil current for Transport. [109682] operational requirements and stock levels are kept under regular review. Peter Luff: We designate certain categories of British shipping, including roll-on/roll-off vessels, product tankers, and passenger vessels as ‘strategic ships’. These lists are Tornado Aircraft produced annually as part of the UK Defence Statistics (UKDS) and are listed as “Militarily useful British-registered merchant vessels. There Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for are vessels that could be requisitioned in the appropriate circumstances Defence when he proposes that the accident report for in support of the armed forces” the crash of the Tornado GR4 on 27 January 2011 will (UKDS tables 4.6 and 4.7). Regular discussions with be released. [109879] the Department for Transport at ministerial level on this issue are not required. Nick Harvey: The Service Inquiry report into the occurrence involving Tornado GR4 ZG792 on 27 January Thomas Docherty: To ask the Secretary of State for 2011 was published on the Ministry of Defence website Defence (1) what his policy is on the (a) registration, on 9 May 2012. It is available at the following web link: (b) ownership and (c) crewing of merchant vessels http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/ chartered by his Department for use in strategic CorporatePublications/BoardsOfInquiry/ServiceInquiry military (i) operations and (ii) exercises; [109684] InvestigatingTheAccidentToTornadoGr4Zg792On27Jan11.htm 115W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 116W

Trident Peter Luff: Bilateral discussions with potential international partners, to explore further opportunities Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for for co-operation, are ongoing. I am withholding the Defence what the total projected cost is of the Trident information as its disclosure would, or would be likely renewal programme; and whether this is included in his to, prejudice relations between the United Kingdom Department’s committed core equipment programme. and other states. [109372] Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Peter Luff: The Initial Gate parliamentary report, Defence if he will estimate the cost of developing the published on 18 May 2011, laid out the costs of the Global Combat Ship. [110749] nuclear successor programme and confirmed that the programme remains within the 2006 White Paper costs Peter Luff: The cost to the Ministry of Defence of of £11-14 billion in 2006-07 prices. The Ministry of progressing the Type 26 Global Combat Ship programme, Defence has since committed to provide an annual from the concept stage through to the completion of report to Parliament on costs and progress of the the four-year assessment stage, is estimated to be project, with the first report due shortly. The Successor approximately £170 million. submarine programme is included within the core equipment programme. The cost of the Design and Manufacturing Phases will be determined at the main investment decision Trident Missiles point which is anticipated around the middle of this decade. Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the dates are of (a) past and (b) planned test Type 45 Destroyers firings of Trident D5 missiles. [109635]

Peter Luff: Test firings of Trident D5 missiles take Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for place as part of Demonstration and Shakedown Operations Defence on how many occasions Type 45 vessels have (DASOs). The aim of a DASO is to prove the readiness suffered a total electrical failure in the last five years. of a ballistic missile submarine and its strategic weapon [109771] system for operational deployment. The dates of previous test firings of Trident D5 Peter Luff: Occasions of electrical failure are not missiles from UK submarines are as follows: routinely recorded on Type 45 destroyers or any other 26 May 1994 class of ship. 19 June 1994 24 July 1995 Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent assessment he has made of the 22 August 1995 reliability of (a) power generation and (b) the main 10 October 1997 bus bars of the fleet of Type 45 vessels. [109773] 21 September 2000 10 October 2005 Peter Luff: As with all equipment in all classes of 18 May 2009 ship, the electrical systems in the Type 45 destroyers I am withholding details of planned test firings for undergo a continual process of performance assessment the purpose of safeguarding national security. and routine maintenance, to ensure they are maintained Trident Submarines at the highest standard of availability and reliability. Concerns about the reliability of the Type 45 Class Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence power and propulsion system did emerge during first of what the planned end of service date is for each of the class sea trials for HMS Daring. As a result, an independent power and propulsion system performance review was Vanguard Class submarines. [110597] commissioned. This review, which reported in March Peter Luff: As outlined in the Strategic Defence and 2011, highlighted a number of unconnected causes of Security Review, the planning assumption for service system and equipment failure and these issues have entry of the first Vanguard successor submarine is been addressed through a series of design changes, 2028. The in-service dates for subsequent boats will be resulting in a marked improvement in performance. determined at Main Gate in 2016. The out-of-service Work to complete the implementation of the recommended dates for the Vanguard class submarines will be managed design changes is continuing. to ensure that continuous at sea deterrence is maintained There have been no problems with the reliability of throughout the transition to the new class. bus bars on the in-service Type 45 destroyers. Type 26 Frigates Warships Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with representatives Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for of the Government of (a) Turkey, (b) Brazil, (c) Defence what the total cost for the SMART-L air Australia, (d) Malaysia, (e) India and (f) Canada on search radars purchased for the Type 45 destroyers and mutual cost-sharing for the development of the Global Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers was in the latest Combat Ship. [110748] period for which figures are available. [110056] 117W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 118W

Peter Luff: The SMART-L air search radar has not the Abortion Act 1967 (as amended) makes provision been purchased for Type 45 Destroyers (T45s) nor the for this. Any abortion performed outside the terms of Queen Elizabeth Class (QEC) Aircraft Carriers. A derivative the Abortion Act 1967 or any intention of causing a of SMART-L, the S1850M, known as the Long Range woman to miscarry her pregnancy, is illegal. Radar (LRR) was purchased for the T45s and is being There are strict legal controls on the retail sale, supply purchased for the QEC Aircraft Carriers. and advertisement of medicinal products in the United The costs of LRR for Development and Initial Kingdom, including those used for abortion. Any incidences Production, Follow on Procurement and Initial Support of websites offering for sale to the public drugs that Contract costs incurred by the Department to March may cause an abortion should be reported to the Medicines 2012 are in the region of £114 million (excluding VAT). and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), The Development and Production and Initial Support who are responsible for the regulation of medicines on costs of the LRR for the QEC Aircraft Carriers total the UK market. £32.5 million (VAT). At the present time, no follow on Treatment for an abortion must be carried out only in procurement costs have been identified. national health service hospitals or places approved by the Secretary of State for Health, my right hon. Friend the Member for South Cambridgeshire (Mr Lansley). HEALTH Data are not collected centrally on the number of raids carried out by the Police in relation to websites Abortion offering advice and/or drugs for use in home abortions. The Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries (CMACE) Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health produce a report every three years about maternal (1) whether he has made an assessment of recent trends deaths. The latest report (published 2011) includes the in the number of websites offering guidance on home period. 2006-08 during which there were no deaths due abortions; what steps he is taking to investigate such to the illegal terminations of pregnancy. websites; and whether he plans to take any further Antidepressants: Prescriptions action against them; [110052] (2) whether he has made an estimate of the number Jim Dobbin: To ask the Secretary of State for Health of deaths caused by home abortion attempts in each how many prescriptions for each selective serotonin (a) socio-economic, (b) ethnic and (c) age group in reuptake inhibitor anti-depressant were issued in each the last five years; and how many police raids on quarter of 2011. [109261] properties involved in performing or offering online guidance on home abortions there have been in the last Mr Simon Burns: Information is only available on five years. [110053] prescription items dispensed. The numbers dispensed for each medicine classified as a selective serotonin Anne Milton: It is important for women in Great reuptake inhibitor in the British National Formulary Britain to be able to access safe, legal abortion services; section 4. 3. 3, is as follows.

Number of prescription items for each selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, written in the United Kingdom and dispensed in the community, in England, in each quarter of 2011 Medicine Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4

Citalopram 3,230,779 3,287,259 3,457,000 3,511,580 Escitalopram 303,953 301,160 298,249 289,151 Fluoxetine Hydrochloride 1,343,705 1,368,189 1,394,853 1,408,912 Fluvoxamine Maleate 7,252 7,235 7,322 7,063 Paroxetine Hydrochloride 387,020 389,226 393,714 392,180 Sertraline Hydrochloride 813,420 878,918 943,714 988,150 Total 6,086,129 6,231,987 6,494,852 6,597,036 Source: Prescription Cost Analysis (PCA) system

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Number of prescription items (thousand) how many anti-depressants were prescribed each year in each region of the UK in each year for which figures 1992 9,914 are available. [109335] 1993 10,777 1994 11,816 1995 13,227 Mr Simon Burns: Information is only available on 1996 14,961 prescription items dispensed in the community in England. 1997 16,823 The table shows the number of prescription items dispensed 1998 18,424 for drugs classified as antidepressant drugs in British 1999 20,108 National Formulary (BNF) section 4.3 for each available 2000 22,022 year. 2001 24,343 2002 26,329 Number of prescription items (thousand) 2003 27,658 1991 8,955 2004 28,996 119W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 120W

Mr Simon Burns: No meetings were held with private Number of prescription items (thousand) sector cosmetic surgery providers by either Ministers or 2005 29,390 departmental officials as part of the ministerial review 2006 31,038 of the actions of the Medicines and Healthcare products 2007 33,840 Regulatory Agency and Department in relation to PIP 2008 35,961 silicone breast implants. 2009 39,140 Departmental officials held a meeting with private 2010 42,788 health care providers on 13 February 2012 to discuss 2011 46,678 the sector’s response to the issues of PIP breast implants. Source: The ministerial review was not discussed at this meeting. Prescription Cost Analysis (PCA) system The following organisations attended the meeting: Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Independent Healthcare Advisory Service if he will estimate the proportion of (a) adults and (b) Nuffield Health children who were prescribed anti-depressants in the Spire Healthcare Ltd last 12 months for which figures are available in each (i) BMI Healthcare socio-economic grouping, (ii) religion, (iii) ethnic Ramsay Health Care UK group and (iv) gender. [109392] Aspen Medical Care Mr Simon Burns: For England, this information is The Harley Medical Group not collected centrally. Transform Medical Group Asthma: Medical Equipment Linia Cosmetic Surgery Court House Clinics Stephen McPartland: To ask the Secretary of State Make Yourself Amazing for Health (1) whether his Department has any plans to Bridgewater Hospital discuss with the Department for Education the creation The Hospital Group. of an exemption in the Medicines Regulations to allow schools to keep a spare inhaler for children with The Department does not hold information on meetings asthma in emergencies; and if he will make a statement; attended by individual members of the PIP Expert [109512] Group. (2) whether (a) his Department and (b) the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Agency has taken any steps to consider the proposal to (1) what the membership is of his Department’s Expert create an exemption in the Medicines Regulations to Group on PIP breast implants; and what the declared allow schools to keep a spare inhaler for children with financial interests are of each member; [110285] asthma in emergencies; and if he will make a statement; (2) what the names are of the clinical experts from [109513] private sector cosmetic surgery providers who are (3) what representations his Department has received members of his Department’s Expert Group on PIP on creating an exemption in the Medicines Regulations breast implants. [110286] to allow schools to keep a spare inhaler for children with asthma in emergencies; what steps his Department Mr Simon Burns: The membership of the Expert is taking to consider this proposal; and if he will make Group on PIP breast implants, including alternates, is a statement. [109514] set out in the following table. A number of members of the group work as consultant plastic surgeons in the Anne Milton: A number of hon. Members, together national health service and in the private sector, or have with Asthma UK, have made representations to the financial interests that are broadly relevant to the work Department of Health on this issue. On 9 May 2012, of the group. departmental officials wrote to the Medicines and Expert Group on PIP Implants Healthcare products Regulatory Agency asking if they Relevant commercial would be able to undertake a formal risk benefit analysis Member Professional interests interests of the proposal to allow schools to hold an inhaler for Sir Bruce Keogh NHS Medical Director and None emergency use. They have agreed to undertake an analysis (Chairman) Medical Director, NHS and the remit for this will be agreed between the Department Commissioning Board of Health and the Department for Education. Authority; Fellow and previous council member of Royal College of Surgeons Breasts: Plastic Surgery of England Mr Simon Head of Policy Royal None John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Edwards College of Surgeons of what meetings (a) the Parliamentary Under-Secretary England Mr Fazal Fatah President, British Consultant plastic of State for Quality, (b) officials in his Department Association of Aesthetic. surgeon (NHS and and (c) members of the Expert Group have had with Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) private practice) with private sector cosmetic surgery providers during the interest in breast reconstruction and preparation of the Parliamentary Under-Secretary’s aesthetic surgery; part review of the regulation of PIP breast implants; and owner of the what the (i) dates and (ii) attendees were of any such Westbourne Centre, Birmingham meetings. [110284] 121W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 122W

Expert Group on PIP Implants We have recently approved a further survey for 2012-13, Relevant commercial and from April 2013 onwards, decisions about the survey Member Professional interests interests will be the responsibility of the NHS Commissioning Mr Tim Past president and chair of Consultant plastic Board (NHS CB). Goodacre standards committee, British surgeon (NHS and Association of Plastic private practice); 4% We have already made clear that there is a role for Reconstructive and shareholder in a startup clinical networks, such as cancer networks, in the reformed Aesthetic Surgeons; member company developing a of BAAPS self-inflated tissue national health service, as a place where clinicians from expander (patented different sectors come together to improve the quality development) of care across integrated pathways. Dame Deirdre Former Chief Medical None Hine Officer, Welsh Government The cancer networks are a clear example of how this Sir Ian Kennedy Former chair of the None way of working delivers better quality. This is why the Healthcare Commission Secretary of State for Health, the right hon. Member Professor Ian Professor of toxicology, None Kimber Manchester University; for South Cambridgeshire (Mr Lansley), announced in toxicology member of the May 2011 that we would continue to fund cancer networks Committee on the Safety of in 2012-13 and that the NHS CB will support strengthened Devices cancer networks. Mr Ian Martin President of Federation of None Surgical Specialist From April 2013, funding of clinical networks will be Associations a decision for the NHS CB. A review of clinical networks Mr Richard President of BAAPS Consultant plastic Milner surgeon (NHS and is currently under way, to consider the functions, structures private practice) and governance that will mostly effectively support Mr Richard President, Association of Consultant surgeon; commissioners to deliver improved quality and outcomes Rainsbury Breast Surgery private practice in in the future. relation to breast cancer surgery but not to cosmetic breast ‘Improving Outcomes: A Strategy for Cancer’, published augmentation on 12 January 2011, sets out actions to tackle preventable Professor President, Royal College of None cancer incidence, to achieve earlier diagnosis of cancer Norman Surgeons and to improve the quality and efficiency of cancer Williams services. The impact assessment for the strategy estimates Dr Anne-Marie Associate Professor of None Slowther Clinical Ethics, Warwick that through the plans for earlier diagnosis of symptomatic Medical School; GP patients, screening developments and expansion of Professor David Professor of Biostatistics None radiotherapy services we can save an additional 5,000 Spiegelhalter and Public Understanding lives every year by 2014-15. It is too early to assess the of Risk, University of Cambridge progress made in meeting this commitment. Mr Simon Member of Council, British Consultant plastic The first annual report, published on 12 December Withey Association of Aesthetic surgeon (NHS and Plastic Surgeons private practice); 2011, sets outs the achievements over the first year of founding partner, the cancer strategy and what the priorities are for the London Plastic Surgery year ahead. Associates; Director, My Aesthetic Ltd Dr Andrew Chair, cosmetic surgery Former group medical Vallance-Owen working group of the director, BUPA Andy Burnham: To ask the Secretary of State for Independent Healthcare Health if he will review the exclusion of cancer patients Advisory Services; member of governance group, from the Hospital Episode Statistics readmission rates; Treatments You Can Trust and what steps his Department is taking to prevent the unnecessary readmission of cancer patients. [109539]

Cancer Paul Burstow: Cancer patients were originally excluded from the indicator of readmission within 28 days, developed Andy Burnham: To ask the Secretary of State for by the National Centre for Health Outcomes Development Health (1) whether his Department plans to conduct and now part of the Information Centre’s Compendium the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey on an of Population Health Indicators, because some cancer annual basis; [109535] patients may need periodic admission to hospital for (2) what recent discussions officials in his reasons that do not reflect poor quality of care. Department have had with the NHS Commissioning Board Special Health Authority on funding for cancer For similar reasons, hospital readmissions involving cancer are excluded from the policy of non-payment for networks after 2013; [109540] emergency readmissions. We will keep these exclusions (3) with reference to Improving Outcomes: A under review. In the meanwhile, NHS Improvement has Strategy for Cancer, what progress he has made in been leading a Transforming Inpatient Care programme meeting the target for saving additional lives each year for cancer patients to promote enhanced recovery by 2014-15. [109541] programmes for elective surgery, the reduction of avoidable emergency admissions, and reducing lengths of stay for Paul Burstow: Fieldwork for the 2011-12 National those who do need to be admitted as emergencies. To Cancer Patient Experience Survey was completed in support improvement across the service, lessons learned April and we hope to publish national and trust level from the Transforming Inpatient Care Programme will reports between June and July. be disseminated to providers and commissioners. 123W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 124W

Mr Baron: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Drug Number of patients funded from April 2011 (1) how many National Institute for Health and to end February 20121 Clinical Excellence technology appraisals for cancer were (a) recommended, (b) optimised, (c) classed Fulvestrant 333 only in research or (d) not recommended from (i) April Gemcitabine and 1 2009 to March 2010, (ii) April 2010 to March 2011 and Methylprednisolone (iii) April 2011 to March 2012; [109922] Gemcitibine 2 (2) how many National Institute for Health and Gliadel Wafer 2 Clinical Excellence technology appraisals for cancer Hyperthermic 1 have included patient access schemes; and how many Mitomycin such appraisals have been (a) recommended, (b) optimised, Imatinib 64 (c) classed only in research or (d) not recommended Interferon 2 between (i) April 2009 and March 2010, (ii) April 2010 Ipilimumab 132 and March 2011 and (iii) April 2011 and March 2012. Irinotecan 1 [109923] Lapatinib 601 Lapatinib and 2 Paul Burstow: The information requested is not held paclitaxel by the Department. I have asked the chief executive of Lapatinib with 1 the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence carboplatin to write to the hon. Member with this information. A Lenalidomide 71 copy will be placed in the Library. Liposomal 15 Doxorubicin Cancer: Drugs Lutetium Octreotate 10 Metaidobenzylguanidine 2 Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Mifamurtide 13 which drugs have been funded through the Cancer Mitotane 5 Drugs Fund since its creation; and how many patients Nelarabine 5 have received each drug. [109639] Nilotinib 58 Mr Simon Burns: Information on the drugs funded Ofatumumab 34 under the Cancer Drugs Fund and the number of Not specified 39 patients who have received these drugs (from April 2011 Panitimumab 55 to the end of February 2012) is shown in the table. Final Pazopanib 44 figures for 2011-12, based on the final accounts, are PEG Asparaginase 3 expected to be available by the end of June. Peginterferon Alpha 3 Pegylated liposomal 14 Drug Number of patients funded from April 2011 doxorubicin in 1 to end February 2012 combination with carboplatin Abiraterone 1,010 Pemetrexed 64 Abraxane 49 Alemtuzumab 49 Rituximab 547 Arsenic trioxide 4 Sirolimus 2 Azacitidine 131 Yttrium 90/Selective 39 Bendamustine 373 Internal Radiation Therapy Bendamustine and 28 Rituximab Sorafenib 484 Bevacizumab 2,770 Sorafenib and 2 Bexraotene 3 Clofarabine Bortezomib 210 Sunitinib 94 Brentuximab 11 Temozolomide 4 Cabazitaxel 139 Temsirolimus 60 Capecitibine 5 Thiotepa 1 Cetuximab 1,132 Topotecan 10 Clofarabine 25 Trabectedin 3 Clofarabine and 1 Trastuzumab 18 Daunoxome Velcade 1 Dasatinib 56 Degarelix 1 Vinflunine 18 Denosumab 21 Vorinostat 1 Depocyte 6 Zevalin 2 Docetaxel 7 Total 9,899 Doxorubicin 1 1 Levels of current activity are likely to be higher than these figures Eribulin 268 suggest, due to the gap between treatment being provided and payment being invoiced and processed. Erlotinib 130 Source: Everolimus 578 Information supplied to the Department by strategic health Folfox 28 authorities. 125W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 126W

Cardiovascular System http://publications.nice.org.uk/percutaneous-venoplasty-for- chronic-cerebrbspinal-venous-insufficiency-for-multiple- sclerosis-ipg420 Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the NICE considered that there was insufficient evidence Commissioning for Quality and Innovation payments to support the use of this procedure in the national scheme in improving care for patients with acute myocardial health service and recommended that it should only be used in the context of research. infarction. [109992]

Mr Simon Burns: No national assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the Commissioning for Clinical Trials Quality and Innovation (CQUIN) payments scheme in improving care for patients with acute myocardial infarction. Adam Afriyie: To ask the Secretary of State for The majority of CQUIN goals are locally agreed and Health what plans he has to review the regulatory commissioners can already choose to use the CQUIN framework for adaptive trials in order to encourage framework to reward providers for ambitious improvements sponsorship of adaptive trial designs. [110702] in improving care for patients with acute myocardial infarction. Mr Simon Burns: The decision to adopt a particular National health service commissioners are encouraged clinical trial design is taken by the sponsor of the study to share their CQUIN schemes at the website of the and involves many considerations, one of which may be NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement. However, the acceptability of the study methodology for regulators. the information that is available is by no means a Medicines regulators are open to clinical trials with an complete picture of CQUIN scheme activity across the adaptive design, and routinely endorse their use in drug NHS and would not provide sufficient information to development. Published guidance on clinical trials with provide a full and clear assessment of the effectiveness adaptive designs in the context of submissions to regulatory of CQUIN in improving care for patients with acute authorities is available to sponsors of studies and is myocardial infarction. The website can be found at: subject to periodic review. www.institute.nhs.uk/world_class_commissioning/pct_portal/ cquin.html Drugs: Prices Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what discussions officials in his Department Andy Burnham: To ask the Secretary of State for have had with patient groups on the development of Health (1) what assessment he has made of progress the Cardiovascular Disease Outcomes Strategy. [109993] against his objective to introduce a new value-based system of pricing for medicines when the Pharmaceutical Mr Simon Burns: Representatives from patient Price Regulation Scheme expires at the end of 2013; organisations were invited to a national engagement [110108] event held on 10 May 2012. A set of regional engagement (2) which patient groups or representative organisations events is also under way which is including patients and he consulted as part of the process of developing a new patient organisations among attendees. A further event value-based system of pricing for medicines. [110110] specifically dedicated to patients and carers is planned, and there will be other opportunities for organisations Mr Simon Burns: The consultation, ‘Anew value-based and individuals with an interest to feed in their views approach to the pricing of branded medicines’ ran from during the production of the strategy. December 2010 to March 2011, and the Government response to the consultation was published on 18 July Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 2011, ‘A new value-based approach to the pricing of branded medicines: Government response to consultation’. Sir Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for This summarised the responses received to the consultation Health if he will publish the outcome of the National and set out the Government’s views on the key issues Institute for Clinical Excellence’s initial consultation raised. The response also included the names of patient on the use of balloon angioplasty as a treatment for groups and representative, organisations that responded chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency for those to the consultation. A copy has already been placed in with myalgic encephalomyelitis; if he will make it his the Library. It is also available from the Department’s policy for this treatment to be provided by the national website at: health service; and if he will make a statement. [109328] www.dh.gov.uk/en/Consultations/Responsestoconsultations/ DH_128226 Paul Burstow: The National Institute for Health and We continue to work towards the intended introduction Clinical (NICE) has not issued any guidance on the use of value-based pricing for medicines in 2014. of balloon angioplasty for chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency for patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis and there are no plans for it to develop guidance on this Electronic Cigarettes topic. NICE has issued interventional procedures guidance Tracey Crouch: To ask the Secretary of State for on percutaneous venoplasty for chronic cerebrospinal Health (1) what assessment his Department has carried venous insufficiency for multiple sclerosis which includes out of whether there are health risks associated with the use of balloon angioplasty, which is available at: electronic cigarettes; [109647] 127W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 128W

(2) whether his Department has issued guidance on The plan should detail the main elements of the treatment proposed the labelling and packaging of electronic cigarettes. (including investigations and tests), the cost of that treatment and [109648] any possible changes to the plan, including their cost implications. The centre should give patients the opportunity to discuss the plan before treatment begins”. Mr Simon Burns: Electronic cigarettes are subject to the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations Fluoride: Drinking Water 2005, which include labelling provisions. Electronic cigarettes are not currently regulated as Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for medicines which are required to meet appropriate standards Health what his policy is on the use of industrial grade of safety, quality and efficacy. Many such products hexafluorosilicic acid in UK water fluoridation claim to contain nicotine but the content of the products schemes. [109986] is not routinely assessed as it would be under medicines regulation. Anne Milton: We understand that the hexafluorosilicic In March 2011, the Medicines and Healthcare products acid used in water fluoridation schemes in the United Regulatory Agency (MHRA) published the outcome of Kingdom is manufactured to exacting quality standards a public consultation on whether to bring all nicotine to meet European standards and approval by the Drinking containing products within the medicines licensing regime. Water Inspectorate. The response to consultation suggested there was strong support for MHRA regulation. The response to Fraud consultation also highlighted the need for further information to inform a decision and the MHRA is Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health co-ordinating further scientific and market research what estimate he has made of the level of (a) procurement with a view to a final decision on the application of and (b) other fraud affecting his Department’s spending medicines regulation in spring 2013. in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; and if he will make a statement. [110174] Mr Simon Burns: The Department does not make an Fertility: Medical Treatments estimate of the level of procurement and other fraud affecting departmental spend. Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for The Department takes the risk of procurement fraud Health what steps his Department is taking to ensure seriously and operates an effective purchase to pay that GPs receive adequate training and support to system with clear separation of duties and mandatory commission infertility treatments. [109500] processes, from the raising of requisitions, receipting after satisfactory delivery and payment. All members of Anne Milton: Infertility treatment services will be staff are required to comply with the Department’s commissioned by Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) Standing Financial Instructions, procurement policies with the NHS Commissioning Board providing oversight and the purchase to pay process, including the use of and support. This support will include the provision of the request and receipt forms. The Department also supportive resources and tools on how CCGs can operates a robust control and compliance process for collaborate to commission infertility services. payments made using the Government Procurement Card. This helps to deter and minimise any fraud in this area. Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department is taking to monitor General Practitioners the cost of infertility treatment in private clinics. [109501] Paul Goggins: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether he plans to issue contracts of employment Anne Milton: The cost of infertility treatment in to the chairs of clinical commissioning groups; and if private clinics is a matter between the clinic and the so when he plans to do so. [109753] private patient. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 does not therefore regulate the level of charges Mr Simon Burns: No. It will be for clinical for the provision of infertility treatments and services. commissioning, groups (CCGs) to agree the contracts Nor does the regulation of costs come within the remit of employment for their staff. Each group may appoint for the national regulator, the Human Fertilisation and such persons to be employees as it considers appropriate; Embryology Authority (HFEA). it will pay remuneration and travelling and other allowances in accordance with determinations made by its governing Although charges are a matter for the individual body, and employ them on such other terms and conditions clinic to determine, the HFEA’s Code of Practice sets as it may determine. Where a chair is not an employee, it out that before treatment or gametes and embryo storage will be for the CCG to agree their remuneration and services are offered, the clinic should give the person other terms and conditions, where these are not set out seeking these services and their partner a personalised, in regulations. costed treatment plan, so the person seeking treatment services is clear on what this would cost at that clinic. Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for The HFEA Code of Practice says: Health what the (a) average salary and (b) highest “Before treatment, storage or both are offered, the centre total remuneration was for GPs in (i) England and (ii) should also give the person seeking treatment or storage, and each strategic health authority region in the latest their partner (if applicable) a personalised costed treatment plan. period for which figures are available. [110264] 129W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 130W

Mr Simon Burns: The latest available average salary has been made on the impact of interest charges on for general practitioners for England and by strategic payments owed to the United Kingdom, or payments health authority are published in the “GP Earnings and owed by the United Kingdom during that period. Expenses 2009-10 Final Report” published by the Health Regulation 883/2004 and its implementing Regulation and Social Care Information Centre on 11 November 987/2009 came into force on 1 May 2010. These Regulations 2011 as contained in the following table. introduced a statutory deadline of 18 months for payment Average income before tax for general practitioner (GP) contractors for (1) of a valid claim to be made and the ability for member England and (2) strategic health authorities (SHAs) states to charge interest on any claims not met within 18 Average income (£) months. The United Kingdom does not currently have (1) England 109,400 any cases of member states not reimbursing within that time period, nor has the United Kingdom failed to make payments within that period. (2) By strategic health authority North East 105,700 Health Services: Overseas Visitors North West 105,100 Yorkshire and the Humber 107,500 Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for East Midlands 115,700 Health (1) hat assessment he has made of the reason West Midlands 115,200 for the increase in income to the NHS from overseas East of England 114,400 visitors under non-reciprocal arrangements in 2010-11; London 112,400 [110263] South East Coast 115,600 South Central 105,300 (2) what the total (a) income received, (b) total South West 94,800 losses, (c) bad debt and claims abandoned and (d) income which is still in the process of being recovered It is not possible to determine top total remuneration was in relation to bills incurred by overseas visitors in for either GPs in England or individual SHAs as each NHS trust in the latest period for which figures information is derived from a representative sample of are available; [110267] tax data submitted by GPs. However, estimated data on GP contractors earnings at a United Kingdom level (3) how many patients were treated by the NHS who within each £10,000 earnings bracket is available in the are (a) non-UK EEA citizens and (b) non-EEA GP Earnings and Expenses 2009-10 Final Report which citizens in each of the last 10 years; [110269] has already been placed in the Library. (4) what the average time taken was to collect debt in relation to bills incurred by overseas visitors to the Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for NHS in each financial year since 1997-98. [110270] Health how much the NHS paid out to retired GPs as part of the NHS pension scheme in each financial year Anne Milton: The total income recorded in relation to since 1997-98; and how many retired GPs received an overseas patients, by each national health service trust, NHS pension in each such year. [110265] in 2010-11, is shown in the following table, together with the total losses, bad debts and claims abandoned Mr Simon Burns: Data on the amount paid to retired recorded. general practitioners (GPs), and how many GPs received The Department has not made a central assessment a national health service pension are not available. of the reason for increases in income from overseas Health Services: EU Nationals patients under non-reciprocal arrangements in 2010-11. Such increases may be due to a higher volume of chargeable overseas visitors receiving treatment, increased Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health identification of such patients by NHS trusts, or local what estimate he has made of the likely revenue to the differences in accounting for income. public purse if interest payments had been levied on other European Economic Area member states and The Department does not hold information on income Switzerland for outstanding health care claims under that NHS trusts are still in the process of recovering Regulation 987/2009 in each year from 1997-98 to from overseas visitors, or on the average time to collect 2009-10. [109640] debts from overseas visitors. The Department does not hold information centrally Anne Milton: The Regulations in force for the period about the nationality of patients treated by the NHS. 1997 to April 2010 did not contain a statutory deadline Entitlement to NHS treatment is not based on nationality, for payments to be made between member states or the and NHS trusts do not routinely record the nationality ability to charge interest payments. Therefore, no estimate of patients.

£000 Overseas patients (non- Overseas patients losses, bad debts and Name reciprocal) income claims abandoned

5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Trust 00 Airedale NHS Foundation Trust 00 Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust 45 63 Ashton, Leigh and Wigan Community Healthcare NHS Trust 0 0 Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust 0 0 131W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 132W

£000 Overseas patients (non- Overseas patients losses, bad debts and Name reciprocal) income claims abandoned

Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust 892 0 Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals NHS Trust 286 140 Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust 0 0 Barts and The London NHS Trust 1,284 938 Bedford Hospital NHS Trust 65 0 Bedfordshire and Luton Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust 0 0 Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust 0 0 Bradford District Care NHS Trust 00 Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust 243 0 Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust 275 72 Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust 0 0 Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust 0 0 Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust 00 Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust 0 0 Croydon Health Services NHS Trust 289 41 Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust 98 31 Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust 0 0 Devon Partnership NHS Trust 00 Dudley and Walsall Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust 0 0 Ealing Hospital NHS Trust 50 168 East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust 390 49 East Cheshire NHS Trust 67 1 East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust 51 12 East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust 0 0 East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust 0 0 East Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust 59 3 Eastern and Coastal Kent Community Health NHS Trust 0 0 Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust 187 107 George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust 01 Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Trust 112 0 Great Western Ambulance Service NHS Trust 0 0 Hereford Hospitals NHS Trust 13 0 Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust 00 Hinchingbrooke Healthcare NHS Trust 15 0 Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust 0 24 Humber Mental Health Teaching NHS Trust 0 0 Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust 5,083 1,187 Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust 74 26 Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership NHS Trust 0 0 Kingston Hospital NHS Trust 109 16 Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust 1,238 3 Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust 00 Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust 00 Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital NHS Trust 0 0 London Ambulance Service NHS Trust 00 Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust 0 0 Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust 0 0 Mersey Care NHS Trust 00 Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust 1,212 3 Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust 63 0 Newham University Hospital NHS Trust 345 337 NHS Direct NHS Trust 00 Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust 0 0 North Bristol NHS Trust 367 226 North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust 41 0 North East Ambulance Service NHS Trust 0 0 North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust 387 86 North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust 0 0 North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust 0 0 North West London Hospitals NHS Trust 985 611 Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust 155 54 Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Trust 0 0 Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust 00 133W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 134W

£000 Overseas patients (non- Overseas patients losses, bad debts and Name reciprocal) income claims abandoned

Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Trust 0 0 Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust 57 44 Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust 00 Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre NHS Trust 242 0 Oxford Learning Disability NHS Trust 00 Oxford Radcliffe Hospital NHS Trust 00 Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust 418 291 Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust 105 7 Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust 192 84 Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust 86 31 Queen Elizabeth Hospital Kings Lynn NHS Foundation Trust 13 0 Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic NHS Trust 0 0 Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust 0 0 Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust 68 5 Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust 526 457 Royal Liverpool Broadgreen Hospitals NHS Trust 0 58 Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Trust 0 0 Royal United Hospital Bath NHS Trust 55 3 Royal Wolverhampton Hospital NHS Trust 27 83 Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust 90 33 Scarborough and North East Yorkshire NHS Trust 28 8 Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust 29 8 South Central Ambulance Service NHS Trust 0 0 South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust 0 0 South London Healthcare NHS Trust 638 0 South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust 00 South Warwickshire General Hospitals NHS Trust 0 0 South West Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust 0 0 South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust 0 0 South West Yorks Mental Health NHS Trust 0 0 Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust 385 253 Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust 1 0 St George’s Healthcare NHS Trust 1,008 0 St Helens and Knowsley Hospitals NHS Trust 39 17 Suffolk Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust 0 0 Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust 318 43 Sussex Community NHS Trust 00 The Hillingdon Hospital NHS Trust 1,089 396 The Lewisham Healthcare NHS Trust 435 283 The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust 0 0 Trafford Healthcare NHS Trust 15 0 United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust 47 7 University Hospital of North Staffordshire Hospital NHS Trust 312 0 University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust 71 57 University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust 513 119 University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust 7 1 Walsall Hospitals NHS Trust 01 Walton Neurology Centre NHS Trust 00 West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust 137 41 West London Mental Health NHS Trust 328 0 West Middlesex University NHS Trust 268 0 West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust 0 0 West Suffolk Hospital NHS Trust 25 11 Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust 59 0 Weston Area Health NHS Trust 20 Whipps Cross University Hospital NHS Trust 608 160 Whittington Hospital NHS Trust 245 72 Winchester and Eastleigh Healthcare NHS Trust 218 0 Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust 0 0 Worcestershire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust 0 0 135W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 136W

£000 Overseas patients (non- Overseas patients losses, bad debts and Name reciprocal) income claims abandoned

Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust 00 Total 23,184 6,771 Note: Where an NHS trust obtains foundation trust status part way through any year, the data provided are only for the part of the year the organisation operated as an NHS Trust. Source: 2010-11 NHS Trusts Audited Summarisation Schedules

Health Services: Reciprocal Arrangements Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for Health who he proposes will be responsible for Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for commissioning sign language interpreters for healthcare Health how many patients were treated by the NHS appointments in the new NHS structure. [109616] under the provisions of a European Health Insurance Card in each of the last 10 years; and what proportion Paul Burstow: From 1 April 2013, it will be for the of the total number of NHS patients treated this NHS Commissioning Board and clinical commissioning represented in each such year. [110272] groups to make arrangements, for the delivery of services they are responsible for, including the appropriate provision Anne Milton: The national health service records the of interpreters for users of sign language services during number of treatments rather than the number of patients health care appointments. treated. The number of treatments carried out in the The Department has no plans to issue guidance on NHS under the provisions of the European Health this matter. From 1 April 2013 it will be for the NHS Insurance Card (EHIC), and what proportion of overall Commissioning Board to decide what guidance it wishes NHS treatments this represents are shown in the following to issue to clinical commissioning groups. table. EHIC data figures were not recorded centrally When making decisions about what services are delivered prior to October 2009. locally, all national health service organisations must assure themselves that they have complied with the Proportion of total Number of EHIC number of NHS Equality Act 2010. This includes advancing equality of treatments treatments (percentage) opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic, including a disability such as hearing 2009-10 1,292 0.002 loss, and those who do not. Advancing equality involves, 2010-11 2,636 0.004 for example, taking steps to meet the needs of people 2011-12 3,027 0.005 from protected groups where these are different from Note: Treatment activity could include one individual using the NHS on multiple the needs of other people. occasions.

Health Services: Scotland Home Care Services: Nottinghamshire

John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what provisions he has put in place to prevent Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for Foundation Trusts charging for treating NHS patients Health how many people in (a) Ashfield and (b) resident in Scotland on the grounds that it is not Nottinghamshire had home care services fully paid by regarded as income received for activity undertaken in their local authority in the last two years for which figures are available. [109911] pursuit of their principal purpose. [109521]

Mr Simon Burns: There are no provisions in the Paul Burstow: Information on the numbers of people Health and Social Care Act 2012 that allow a foundation receiving home care in Ashfield constituency is not trust to charge a national health service patient resident collected centrally. in Scotland. The Government regards income foundation We are informed by the NHS Information Centre for trusts earn from treating NHS patients that are resident Health and Social Care that information on people in Scotland as income received for activity undertaken receiving home care which is partly or fully funded by in pursuit of their principal purpose of providing goods Nottinghamshire county council, which includes Ashfield, and services for the purposes of the NHS England. is collected. However, it is not possible to break the data down to show numbers whose care is fully funded separately from those whose care is partially funded. Health Services: Sign Language Table 1 shows the number of people receiving home care which was partly or fully funded by Nottinghamshire Dr Wollaston: To ask the Secretary of State for county council during the period 1 April to 31 March Health if he will issue guidance to commissioners of for the years 2009-10 and 2010-11 (that is, at some point sign language interpreters in the NHS to ensure that during the year in question). Table 2 shows the same only fully qualified interpreters are used during health information but for the number of people receiving appointments; and if he will make a statement. [109509] home care on 31 March, the final day of each period. 137W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 138W

Table 1. Number of people receiving home care which was partly or fully funded Hospital Beds by Nottinghamshire county council during financial years 2009-10 and 2010-11 Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for 2009-101 2010-11 Health if he will estimate the bed-to-qualified-staff ratio in (a) England, (b) each foundation trust and (c) each acute trust in each of the last five years. [110262] Number of people 6,655 6,465 receiving home care Mr Simon Burns: The information at foundation Table 2. Number of people receiving home care which was partly or fully funded trust and acute trust level could be obtained only at by Nottinghamshire county council as at 31 March 2010 and 2011 disproportionate cost. However, aggregate figures for England are in the following table. 20101 2011 It is unclear to which type of beds my hon. Friend is Number of people 4,420 3,745 referring. Therefore, four scenarios are provided using receiving home care full-time equivalent (FTE) staff, so that an increase in the ratio indicates an increase in the number of staff per 1 In 2009-10 councils were asked to record people receiving a personal budget under the heading “Existing Direct Payment and/or Personal Budget” on P2s bed. and P2f and not record the different services the service user received as part Data presented are for beds in national health service of their care package. As a result, the figures in the tables for 2009-10 and 2010 do not include people getting home care-as part of a personal budget. organisations in England and staffing data for FTE This was changed for 2010-11, so people getting home care as part of a include doctors, qualified nurses, qualified scientific, personal budget are included for 2010-11 and 2011. therapeutic and technical staff (ST&Ts) and qualified Source: Referrals, Assessments and Packages of Care (RAP) return. NHS Information ambulance staff working in NHS Hospital and Community Centre for Health and Social Care. Health Services (HCHS) in England:

2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

Ratio of professionally qualified FTEs to available beds open overnight 3.2 3.3 3.5 3.9 4.0 Ratio of professionally qualified FTEs to occupied beds open overnight 3.8 3.9 4.1 4.6 4.7 Ratio of professionally qualified FTEs to available beds open overnight plus day only beds 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.6 3.7 Ratio of professionally qualified FTEs to occupied beds open overnight plus day only beds 3.6 3.6 3.8 4.2 4.3 Notes: 1. Work force FTE data exclude general practitioners and practice nurses as they work in primary care settings. 2. Work force FTE data are as at 30 September in each year. 3. FTE figures include some types of staff who might not work in roles directly connected with bed activity, for example health visitors. 4. Beds open overnight data include general and acute, learning disability, maternity and mental illness beds. 5. From Quarter 1 2010-11 the KH03 became a quarterly collection. Prior to this the KH03 collection had been an annual collection from all NHS organisations that have beds, (ordinary or day case), both NHS trusts and primary care trusts that collected the total number of available bed days and the total numberof occupied bed days by ward classification. Figures for 2010-11 and 2011-12 are based on average bed numbers from each quarter. 6. The classification for bed occupancy was changed from ward type to the consultant specialty of the responsible consultant in Q1 2010-11. Care should therefore be taken when comparing 2009-10 to 2010-11 as data might not be directly comparable. 7. It is likely that beds open overnight and day only beds require different levels of staffing. Therefore, care should be taken when comparing changes in staff to bed ratios that include both types of bed. Sources: 1. Work force data: Health and Social Care Information Centre: Medical and Dental Workforce Census; Non-medical Workforce Census 2. Beds data: Department of Health KH03

Hospitals: Standards At the heart of the health care reforms is a focus on improving the quality and outcomes of health care for Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health patients. One of the NHS Commissioning Board’s roles what steps have been taken by his Department to ensure will be to provide national leadership, in driving up the that (a) patients receive adequate nutrition while in quality of care. The board, along with clinical hospital, (b) patients receive adequate hydration while commissioning groups, will have a legal duty to secure in hospital, (c) patients’ toileting needs are adequately continuous Improvement in the quality of services and met, (d) patients receive adequate pain relief to meet outcomes. The Chief Nursing Officer will have a specific their needs and (e) patients are able to receive help remit to improve the safety and people’s experience of when they ask for it. [110117] nursing care. Anne Milton: There is a great deal of best practice On 6 January 2012 the Prime Minister announced a guidance and resources in place that support the delivery series of measures to improve the quality of nursing of high quality, safe and effective care. This includes care and free up nurses to provide the care patients and ensuring patients receive adequate food and drink, pain their relatives expect. These included setting up the relief and help when requested. independent Nursing and Care Quality Forum, tasked with ensuring that best nursing practice is spread throughout The Energising for Excellence Framework being taken the national health service and social care. forward by the strategic health authority chief nurses, is a total quality approach to improving care. “The Operating Framework for the NHS in England 2012/13” includes Manpower requirements to improve the care of older people and dignity and respect; a national Commissioning for Quality Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Innovation (CQUIN) goal relating to the use of the what target he has set to reduce headcount across his safety thermometer will help focus commissioners and Department, its non-departmental public bodies and providers on reducing the harm from pressure ulcers, executive agencies in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and (c) falls, catheter-related infections and blood clots. 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. [110228] 139W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 140W

Mr Simon Burns: The Department does not have Medicine: Education specific headcount reduction targets for the years in question. In line with the parameters of the 2010 spending review, the Department is committed to reducing total Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for administration costs by one-third in real terms over the Health how many places for (a) student midwives, (b) period 2010-11 to 2014-15. The Department has already student doctors and (c) student nurses there were in reduced its staffing expenditure significantly by running each region in each academic year since 1997-98. a voluntary exit scheme for permanent staff in 2010-11 [110249] and by reducing significantly its non-permanent workforce. We expect the number of permanent staff in the Department to reduce further over the spending review Anne Milton: The total population of student midwives period through turnover, voluntary redundancy and, if and nurses has not been collected for every year since necessary, compulsory redundancy. 1997-98. Data regarding the number of non-medical The reduction in funding over the spending review trainees is collected based on the number of new period applies to the Department’s non-departmental commissions, and is collected by financial year rather public bodies and agency, the Medicines and Healthcare than academic year. The following table shows the products Regulatory Agency. While there are no specific number of midwifery training commissions by each headcount reduction targets, the impact will result in strategic health authority (SHA) between 2006-07 and fewer staff in those organisations. 2011-12.

Midwifery commissions, 2006-07 to 2011-12 Region Yorkshire South North North and the East West East of East South South England East West Humber Midlands Midlands England London Coast Central West total

2006-07 84 234 197 44 228 49 282 136 82 114 1,450 2007-08 85 247 162 45 233 204 283 139 142 119 1,659 2008-09 86 257 211 157 295 276 454 203 173 160 2,272 2009-10 92 263 269 179 330 289 511 178 203 168 2,482 2010-11 90 233 255 170 295 284 575 219 198 169 2,488 2011-12 89 255 271 169 287 270 573 216 200 154 2,484 Source: SHA multi professional education and training (MPET) financial information returns.

Due to restructuring of the SHAs, regional data is Midwifery commissions, 1997-98 to 2005-06 not available for prior years and therefore the England England total totals have been provided in the following table for the 2002-03 2,110 year 1997-98 to 2005-06. 2003-04 2,226 Midwifery commissions, 1997-98 to 2005-06 2004-05 2,374 England total 2005-06 1,949 Source: 1997-98 1,704 SHA MPET financial information returns. 1998-99 1,751 1999-2000 1,772 Nursing commissions are collected on the same basis 2000-01 1,887 as midwifery commissions as shown in the following 2001-02 1,878 tables.

Nursing commissions, 2006-07 to 2011-12 Region Yorkshire South North North and the East West East of East South South England East West Humber Midlands Midlands England London Coast Central West total

2006-07 1,132 3,633 2,555 1,538 2,684 1,791 3,705 1,341 1,248 1,572 21,199 2007-08 1,073 3,428 2,007 1,452 2,402 1,590 3,523 1,293 1,106 1,478 19,352 2008-09 1,132 3,617 2,053 1,641 2,607 1,881 3,849 1,195 1,146 1,543 20,664 2009-10 1,132 3,602 2,148 1,744 2,612 1,949 3,783 1,176 1,154 1,529 20,829 2010-11 1,047 3,430 2,150 1,585 2,521 1,730 3,688 1,303 1,142 1,496 20,092 2011-12 1,007 3,033 1,822 1,435 2,073 1,516 3,259 1,123 1,112 1,361 17,741 Source: SHA MPET financial information returns.

Nursing commissions, 1997-98 to 2005-06 Nursing commissions, 1997-98 to 2005-06 England total England total

1997-98 15,743 2000-01 18,923 1998-99 16,837 2001-02 20,624 1999-2000 17,692 2002-03 21,523 141W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 142W

Nursing commissions, 1997-98 to 2005-06 Information on student doctors is collected as the England total total number of undergraduate medical training places 2003-04 22,815 in each financial year. A regional breakdown is available 2004-05 23,369 only from 2007-08, as shown in the following table. 2005-06 20,308 Source: SHA MPET financial information returns.

Undergraduate medical training places, 2007-08 to 2011-12 Region Yorkshire South North North and the East West East of East South South England East West Humber Midlands Midlands England London Coast Central West total

2007-08 1,050 2,559 1,929 1,756 1,719 866 5,386 399 1,301 1,307 18,272 2008-09 1,079 2,277 2,011 1,791 2,088 931 5,363 419 1,249 1,304 18,512 2009-10 1,087 2,462 2,005 1,792 2,144 974 5,606 392 1,261 1,374 19,097 2010-11 1,066 2,466 1,937 1,837 2,110 954 5,690 392 1,280 1,374 19,106 2011-12 1,043 2,469 1,977 1,913 2,144 990 5,668 416 1,286 1,396 19,302 Source: SHA MPET financial information returns.

Prior to 2003-04 the funding methodology for Student midwives on pre-registration degree and diploma courses undergraduate medical training was not based on activity Average amount Number of paid per bursary Total amount and therefore the number of training places are not l 2 available for these years. Information between 2003-04 bursary holders holder (£) paid £) and 2006-07 has been provided as a national level due to 2007-08 3,996 5,813 23,228,490 restructuring of the SHAs as shown in the following 2008-09 4,265 5,715 24,373,689 table. 2009-10 4,777 5,765 27,539,804 Undergraduate medical training places, 2003-04 to 2006-07 2010-11 5,218 5,722 29,854,947 England total Student nurses on pre-registration degree and diploma courses 2003-04 12,924 Average amount 2004-05 14,416 Number of paid per bursary Total amount 2005-06 16,114 bursary holders1 holder2 (£) paid (£) 2006-07 17,560 1997-98 — — — Source: SHA MPET financial information returns. 1998-99 1,272 1,991 2,531,982 1999-2000 18,207 3,805 69,274,583 2000-01 33,507 4,463 149,556,571 Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for 2001-02 48,700 5,121 249,376,136 Health how many (a) student midwives, (b) student 2002-03 56,500 5,118 289,171,150 doctors and (c) student nurses were in receipt of a 2003-04 58,088 5,207 302,438,759 bursary in each academic year since 1997-98; what the 2004-05 59,369 5,531 328,364,818 average bursary paid to each was in that year; and what 2005-06 60,108 5,744 345,257,860 the total cost was to his Department of bursaries paid 2006-07 60,464 5,825 352,179,688 to those students. [110250] 2007-08 57,441 6,001 344,721,676 2008-09 56,415 6,243 352,183,188 2009-10 57,786 6,404 370,037,635 Anne Milton: The number of student midwives, student 2010-11 57,725 6,422 370,723,915 doctors and student nurses who held a bursary in each Student doctors on degree courses year since 1997-98, the average bursary paid to those Total students and the total cost are shown in the following Average amount paid tables. Number of amount paid excluding bursary per bursary tuition fees Tuition fees3 Student midwives on pre-registration degree and diploma courses holders1 holder2 (£) (£) (£) Average amount Number of paid per bursary Total amount 1997-98 — — — — bursary holdersl holder2 (£) paid £) 1998-99 — — — — 1999-2000 — — — — 1997-98 102 2,999 305,914 2000-01 14 2,120 29,687 n/a 1998-99 362 2,853 1,032,758 2001-02 932 586 546,045 n/a 1999-2000 1,216 3,868 4,703,867 2002-03 4,153 1,386 5,755,069 n/a 2000-01 1,980 4,250 8,415,316 2003-04 5,965 1,559 9,298,854 n/a 2001-02 2,751 4,726 13,002,223 2004-05 6,694 1,709 11,439,462 n/a 2002-03 3,166 4,863 15,397,679 2005-06 8,406 1,759 14,789,517 8,055,885 2003-04 3,541 4,995 17,688,013 2006-07 9,249 1,865 17,251,889 9,075,960 2004-05 3,738 5,521 20,637,109 2007-08 10,022 1,851 18,551,600 10,909,494 2005-06 3,901 5,657 22,067,168 2008-09 10,640 1,754 18,658,860 12,798,778 2006-07 3,812 5,716 21,787,618 2009-10 10,932 1,809 19,779,938 14,572,596 143W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 144W

Student doctors on degree courses Mental Health Services: Veterans Total Average amount paid Number of amount paid excluding Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for bursary per bursary tuition fees Tuition fees3 Health if he will take steps to enable local groups holders1 holder2 (£) (£) (£) working with veterans to access public funds to help 2010-11 11,402 1,717 19,580,043 23,214,244 them deal with individuals who have mental health 1 Includes nil award holders (European Union fees only students and students problems. [109952] whose living allowance element of the bursary has been reduced to nil after income assessment). Apart from a small number of students on graduate training programmes, the majority of medical students only became eligible for Mr Simon Burns: With regards specifically to funding, national health service funding from academic year 2002-03. the Department of Health runs an annual grants scheme 2 Includes the basic award and all supplementary allowances and one-off payments e.g. reimbursement of practice placement costs and disabled students for Innovation, Excellence and Strategic Development, allowance. which all voluntary sector organisations are able to 3 A student’s liability for a tuition fee contribution is paid directly to the higher apply to. The scheme receives applications from education institution upon receipt of an invoice. Tuition fee data for student doctors can only be extracted from NHS Student Bursary Scheme database organisations supporting military veterans, and military from 2005-06 onwards. Prior to these data these payments were made by a veterans with mental health problems. Voluntary manual process. Bursary amounts and averages have been rounded to the organisations Combat Stress and the Royal British Legion nearest pound. Source: are also part of the Department’s Strategic Partner NHS Business Services Authority. Programme, and therefore will have knowledge of funding opportunities for the sector should they arise. Mental Health Services Veterans’ mental health is an area which has received significant attention from this Government in the past Mr Charles Walker: To ask the Secretary of State for two years. Following the publication of Dr Andrew Health how many times the Care Quality Commission Murrison’s report ’Fighting Fit’, the Government pledged called on clinical associates to assist in making £1.8 million per annum for the remainder of the spending regulatory judgments which have a specialist mental review period to implement its recommendations. Much health element in each of the last three years for which work has already been completed, such as the launch of figures are available. [110079] a 24-hour veterans telephone helpline, a pilot of the online wellbeing service ’Big White Wall’ and an e-learning Mr Simon Burns: The Care Quality Commission package for general practitioners to familiarise themselves (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and adult with veteran-specific health problems. social care providers in England. In addition, each of the 10 Armed Forces Networks The CQC is responsible for assessing whether providers (based geographically in the old strategic health authority are meeting the registration requirements which set out areas) have received £150,000 with which to build up essential levels of safety and quality. enhanced community veterans’ mental health services The CQC has provided the following information: in their areas. These services are now up and running in The CQC compliance inspectors have always had access to almost every region with the remainder planned to clinical expertise to support their regulatory work where they come on line by the end of this calendar year. These require it. However, the CQC does not currently collect the services were developed in conjunction with local groups, information in the format requested. for the local population. The CQC has replaced the term “clinical associates” with “specialist advisors”. Mental Illness The CQC is on track to begin introducing a bank of specialist advisors by June 2012, as set out in its action plan in response to the Department’s Performance and Capability review of the Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health CQC. The CQC expect the bank to be fully operational by July (1) how many people in each (a) socio-economic, (b) 2012 and from then it will be able to report on which compliance ethnic and (c) age group were diagnosed with a mental reports are completed with assistance from specialist advisors. health condition in each of the last 10 years; [109601] Mental Health Services: Prisons (2) how many people in each (a) socio-economic, (b) ethnic and (c) age group were diagnosed with Ben Gummer: To ask the Secretary of State for obsessive compulsive disorder in each of the last 10 Health what steps his Department is taking to improve years. [109602] pathways through secure mental health services to reduce the long waiting times for prison transfers when Paul Burstow: We do not hold annual data on the people are acutely unwell. [110064] number of people diagnosed with a mental health condition or with obsessive compulsive disorder by socio-economic, Paul Burstow: The Department published a good ethnic and age group for the last 10 years. practice procedure guide in March 2011 to facilitate the Data from the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey transfer of prisoners to secure psychiatric hospitals. (APMS) providing information on the prevalence of Between January and April 2012 the Department consulted various mental health conditions in 2007 by ethnic on commissioning guidance for low secure mental health group, age group and equivalised household income services and psychiatric intensive care services. The group has been placed in the Library. It should be noted outcome of that consultation will be published later this that these data concern the presence of symptoms, not year. Defining standards for low secure services is expected whether someone has received a diagnosis. These also to ease pressure on medium secure services, and bring relate to common mental disorders, including obsessive further improvement in transfer times between prison compulsive disorder, and do not include other groups of and hospital. disorders, e.g. disorders such as psychosis and personality 145W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 146W disorder, dependence disorders (substance and gambling) data cannot be provided prior to 2004-05. A separate and conditions such as ADHD and eating disorders, table has been provided for each year, owing to changes which also come under the term ‘mental disorder’. in organisations over the period. Data from the Mental Health Bulletin 2011, and NHS: Drugs Table 1.2-1.4 of the associated national reference tables/ providing information on the number of people accessing NHS funded secondary mental health services by age Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for and ethnic group in the years between 2006-07 and Health what the average time was for the National 2011-12 has also been placed in the Library. The Data Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence to make a Quality and Methodology document published alongside decision on the licensing of new drugs for use in the the main report notes that the data for each year are not NHS in the latest period for which figures are available. completely comparable because of improvement in [109529] collection of key data over time. Paul Burstow: The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is not responsible for the Methadone medicines licensing process. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency and the European Medicines Mr Brady: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Agency have responsibility for licensing new drugs. what assessment his Department has made of the NICE issues technology appraisal guidance to the efficacy and value for money that might be obtained by national health service on the clinical and cost-effectiveness using non-racemic levo and dextro-methadones instead of new and existing drugs and treatments. of racemic methadone in the treatment of drug addiction and neuropathic pain. [109969] NHS: Interest Rates

Anne Milton: Marketing authorisation by the Medicines Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, has only Health if he will estimate the cost and likely been sought for racemic methadone. Levo-methadone implications for the NHS if the UK were subject to has not been authorised in the United Kingdom and commercial interest rates of 6.5 per cent. [110271] data in support of its efficacy have not been submitted for evaluation. Mr Simon Burns: Most borrowing-in the national health service is by NHS providers for capital investment. Mutual Societies The majority of this borrowing is from the Department. Repayments to the Department for this borrowing are Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health recycled into allocations to the NHS or into further what estimate he has made of the number of full-time borrowing. Thus, as a sealed system there are no resources equivalent staff who will transfer from his Department, lost to the NHS as a whole regardless of the actual level its non-departmental public bodies and executive of the interest rate. agency’s workforce to a mutual in (a) 2011-12 and (b) NHS providers have a choice as to whom they borrow 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. [110195] money from. If rates were increased to become similar to commercial rates, they would still be somewhat lower Mr Simon Burns: No staff in the Department, its than commercial rates as commercial rates would always agency the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory include an additional margin for risk. Thus most borrowing, Agency, or its non-departmental public bodies transferred in reality, would still be sourced from the Department to a mutual in 2011-12. No staff have transferred during and thus would not represent a net increased cost to the 2012-13 to date, and there are currently no plans for NHS as a whole. transfers to a mutual in the future. NHS: Pensions NHS: Charitable Donations Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the number of Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for retired members of the NHS pension scheme who are Health how many charitable donations were received in receipt of (a) £142,500 or more and (b) £150,000 or by each NHS organisation in each financial year since more per year as part of their NHS pension. [110266] 1997-98; and what the total amount of these donations was. [110260] Mr Simon Burns: The information requested could be obtained only at a disproportionate cost. Mr Simon Burns: The information is not collected in the format requested. NHS: Recruitment The Department does not collect data on the number of charitable donations received by each national health Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for service organisation. However, the Department does Health what the total cost to the NHS was of employing collect information on the value of charitable and other (a) managers and senior managers, (b) consultants, contributions to expenditure and donated assets. This (c) GPs, (d) nurses and (e) all other staff in each information has been placed in the Library. financial year since 1997-98. [110247] In common with many other public and private sector organisations, the Department only holds accounting Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is provided data at organisation level for seven years, and therefore in the following table: 147W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 148W

accuracy always remains the responsibility of the £000 contributing NHS organisations. Nursing, midwifery Senior managers and health visiting NHS organisations are locally responsible for the and managers staff All other staff provision and maintenance of their facilities. This includes 1997-98 911,539 6,631,381 8,532,500 planning and investment to reduce backlog maintenance. 1998-99 952,327 6,982,090 9,124,743 The data definitions used in ERIC to collect this data 1999- 1,054,677 7,691,928 9,929,109 are: 2000

2000-01 1,186,573 8,337,843 10,973,000 Risk level Definition 2001-02 1,331,350 9,379,697 12,428,737 2002-03 1,563,565 10,270,654 13,952,285 High risk Where repairs/replacement must be addressed with urgent priority in order to prevent catastrophic failure, major disruption to 2003-04 1,772,177 10,896,121 15,744,577 clinical services or deficiencies in safety liable to cause serious 2004-05 2,084,540 11,453,680 17,077,514 injury and/or prosecution. 2005-06 2,199,533 11,522,049 17,140,363 Significant Where repairs/replacement require priority management and 2006-07 2,072,432 11,114,727 16,655,460 risk expenditure in the short term so as not to cause undue concern to statutory enforcement bodies or risk to healthcare delivery or 2007-08 1,852,879 10,252,329 15,688,601 safety. 2008-09 1,844,837 9,501,689 15,478,930 Moderate Where repairs/replacement require effective management and 2009-10 1,966,503 9,152,504 15,494,890 risk expenditure in the medium term through close monitoring so as 2010-11 1,951,458 8,904,702 15,385,718 not to cause undue concern to statutory enforcement bodies or risk to healthcare delivery or safety. Notes: 1. Information on the cost of employing consultants cannot be disaggregated Low risk Where repairs/replacement are required to be addressed through from other staff cost information held centrally. agreed maintenance programmes or included in the later years 2. Most General Medical Practitioners are independent contractors and are not of an estate strategy. directly employed by the national health service, rather they receive contractual payments for delivering primary medical care services. NHS: Telephone Numbering NHS: Redundancy Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many NHS bodies have changed their Health how many NHS staff were made redundant telephone number since directions on the use of 084 who were subsequently re-employed by the NHS in numbers were issued in December 2009. [109960] each financial year between 1997 and 2010; and what the total cost of these redundancies was in each year. Mr Simon Burns: The Department has made no [110248] assessment of number of national health service bodies that have changed their telephone number since December Mr Simon Burns: The number and cost of national 2009. health service staff made redundant and subsequently re-employed by the NHS is not held centrally. The Department issued guidance and Directions to NHS bodies in December 2009 on the cost of telephone NHS: Repairs and Maintenance calls, which prohibit the use of telephone numbers that charge the patient more than the equivalent cost of Andy Burnham: To ask the Secretary of State for calling a geographical number to contact the NHS. It is Health what the cost of backlog maintenance for the currently the responsibility of primary care trusts to NHS estate in England was, by level of assessed risk, in ensure that local practices are compliant with the Directions and guidance. (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011-12. [110377]

Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is shown Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in the following table: Tony Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for £ million Health for what reasons the acquisition of North 2009-10 2010-11 Cumbria University Hospital Trust by Northumbria High risk 301 322 Healthcare NHS Foundation has been delayed; and if Significant risk 1,107 1,022 he will take steps to ensure the acquisition proceeds Moderate risk 1,514 1,524 quickly. [109903] Low risk 1,174 1,299 Total backlog 4,096 4,166 Mr Simon Burns: We understand that this acquisition maintenance is progressing in line with the timetable agreed by the Data for 2011-12 is currently being collected and will national health service organisations concerned. NHS be published in October 2012. North of England, North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust and Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Backlog maintenance is the amount of investment Trust (FT) are working together to ensure the process is heeded to bring the estate up to a satisfactory standard. successful and happens as soon as possible to ensure the It is reduced through either capital investment or the delivery of sustainable, high quality healthcare services disposal of the estate. to the people of North Cumbria. Sustainability is key The Department collects data on backlog maintenance to the delivery of the commitment for all remaining annually from the national health service trusts through NHS trusts to achieve FT status as stand-alone its Estates Returns Information Collection (ERIC). The organisations or in some other organisational form, data collected has not been amended centrally and its including, acquisition by an existing FT. 149W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 150W

Nurses: Schools NHS hospital and community health services: qualified school nursing nurses in England, the North East strategic health authority area and each specified organisation as at 30 September each specified year Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Full time equivalent Health (1) how many and what proportion of (a) 2009 2010 2011 secondary schools and (b) associated primary school clusters are served by a full-time school nurse in (i) England Qualified School Nurses 1,167 1,096 1,165 Washington and Sunderland West constituency and (ii) Of which: England; [109510] North East Strategic Health Authority 51 50 58 area Qualified School Nurses (2) how much funding his Department provided for Of which: school nurses in each primary care trust area in each County Durham and Darlington NHS 0049 year since 2010; [109511] Foundation Trust Qualified School (3) whether his Department plans to allocate one Nurses qualified school nurse to each secondary school and its Darlington PCT Qualified School 44 45 0 Nurses cluster of primary schools; and when he expects this Gateshead PCT Qualified School 325 objective to be achieved. [109533] Nurses North Tees and Hartlepool NHS 333 Anne Milton: The information requested is not collected Foundation trust Qualified School centrally. It is for local commissioning organisations to Nurses North Tyneside PCT Qualified School 003 make funding decisions based on national and local Nurses priorities for improving health and to commission services Northumberland Care Trust Qualified 100 accordingly. This process provides the means for assessing School Nurses local needs including the health needs of children and Redcar and Cleveland PCT Qualified 001 young people and thus the funding and commissioning School Nurses of appropriate services including school nursing services. South Tyneside PCT All School 14 0 0 Nursing nurses To support this process the Department has worked Sunderland Teaching PCT Qualified 100 in partnership with school nurses, professional bodies School Nurses and young people as part of the School Nursing Notes: Development Programme. We have developed a new 1.School nurses are often employed outside the NHS and if they are employed in the NHS they tend to have a lead employer for a given area. vision and model for the profession covering many 2. As part of the changes that are currently effecting the organisational elements of health and wellbeing for children and young structure of the NHS the legally defined PCTs have clustered into larger people aged five to 19. The report and call to action regional units to provide a more consistent approach to care in their local health economy and to benefit from the savings such as shared management from this programme, “Getting it right for children, teams that this offers. In the case of the PCTs in the North East of England young people and families” was published in March these changes have been present for some time and this can be seen in the 2012. A copy of the report has already been placed in increases and decreases in staff numbers (for example qualified nurses) across the PCTs as provision has been centred on one of the local PCTs within the the Library and is available at: cluster. www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/ 3. A few NHS organisations existed within the Electronic Staff Record @dh/@en/documents/digitalasset/dh_133352.pdf database with small numbers of staff as a result of the impact of Transforming Community Services and the resultant system mergers and demergers which were still ongoing at the time of the 2011 census. Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Source: Health how many qualified school nurses there were in Health and Social Care Information Centre Non-Medical Workforce Census (a) Washington and Sunderland West constituency and (b) England in each of the last three years. [109522]

Anne Milton: Washington and Sunderland West Obesity: Surgery constituency falls within the area covered by Sunderland Teaching Primary Care Trust (PCT). The number of Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health qualified school nurses employed by the national health how many people in each (a) socio-economic, (b) service in Sunderland Teaching PCT and England in ethnic and (c) age group underwent weight-loss the annual NHS workforce census for each of the last operations in each of the last 10 years. [109604] three years is shown in the table. The table from the annual NHS workforce census shows that there was one qualified school nurse employed Anne Milton: The NHS Information Centre has provided by the NHS in Sunderland Teaching PCT in 2009 and a count of finished consultant episodes (FCEs) with a that no qualified school nurses were employed by the primary diagnosis of obesity and a main or secondary NHS in Sunderland Teaching PCT in 2010 and 2011. operative procedure of bariatric surgery, for each socio- However; school nurses are often employed outside the economic, ethnic, and age group for the years 2001-02 NHS and if they are employed in the NHS they tend to to 2010-11. have a lead employer for a wider patch. This information is provided in the following tables:

Count of finished consultant episodes (FCEs)1 with a primary diagnosis of obesity2 and a main or secondary operative procedure of bariatric surgery3 for each (a) socio-economic4, (b) ethnic5, and (c) age group for the years 2001-02 to 2010-116 Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in the independent sector (a) Socio-economic group 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

Least deprived 10% 4 6 10 16 26 99 122 208 335 405 151W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 152W

Count of finished consultant episodes (FCEs)1 with a primary diagnosis of obesity2 and a main or secondary operative procedure of bariatric surgery3 for each (a) socio-economic4, (b) ethnic5, and (c) age group for the years 2001-02 to 2010-116 Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in the independent sector (a) Socio-economic group 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

Less deprived 10-20% 7 12 10 18 40 103 151 267 483 491 Less deprived 20-30% 8 7 26 23 51 137 176 280 486 591 Less deprived 30-40% 12 26 21 30 52 141 181 340 542 653 Less deprived 40-50% 14 17 31 25 52 152 233 329 689 722 More deprived 40-50% 15 20 25 42 49 177 248 396 657 816 More deprived 30-40% 23 15 38 42 88 188 276 449 794 943 More deprived 20-30% 16 31 36 49 85 207 330 552 1,046 1,159 More deprived 10-20% 19 23 50 63 87 270 424 619 1,123 1,232 Most deprived 10% 26 42 53 68 102 295 432 649 1,068 1,094 Unknown 7 7 10 12 2 11 25 54 113 135

Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in the independent sector (b) Ethnic group 2001-027 2002-037 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

A British (White) 61 93 168 197 341 974 1,511 2,755 5,275 5,979 B Irish (White) — —146510414342 C Any other White — 6 5 13 15 42 68 108 263 275 background D White and Black ——— 2— 610121932 Caribbean (Mixed) E White and Black ————1177910 African (Mixed) F White and Asian —————244109 (Mixed) G Any other Mixed —114910192333 background H Indian (Asian or —2—34913277168 Asian British) J Pakistani (Asian or ———2159253444 Asian British) K Bangladeshi (Asian ———1—1331212 or Asian British) L Any other Asian —1—3449143540 background M Caribbean (Black or 124211224462139155 Black British) N African (Black or ——1221120409198 Black British) P Any other Black ——267171843130131 background R Chinese (other ethnic ———————— 2— group) S Any other ethnic —12441739506799 group X Not known — 6 14 21 40 244 317 175 119 249 Z Not stated 20 83 112 127 194 411 506 758 994 965 0White 329———————— 1 Black - Caribbean — 1———————— 9Notgiven 372————————

Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in the independent sector (c) Age group

Age group 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 10-19—— 1 3 21024293437 20-29 12 19 26 27 46 152 247 360 593 625 30-39 52 63 98 135 188 491 703 1,055 1,761 1,806 40-49 51 75 119 144 250 674 931 1,505 2,730 3,070 50-59 30 40 62 71 124 383 575 956 1,716 2,070 60-6959482470112228477608 70-79———— — 3 82319 80-120—————— 1——— Unknown 1—————2226 153W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 154W

1 Finished Consultant Episode (FGE) A finished consultant episode (FCE) is a continuous period of admitted patient care under one consultant within one health care provider. FCEs are counted against the year in which they end. Figures do not represent the number of different patients, as a person may have more than one episode of care within the same stay in hospital or in different stays in the same year. 2 Primary diagnosis The primary diagnosis is the first of up to 20 (14 from 2002-03 to 2006-07 and seven prior to 2002-03) diagnosis fields in the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data set and provides the main reason why the patient was admitted to hospital. ICD-10 code used: E66—Obesity 3 Number of episodes with a (named) main or secondary procedure The number of episodes where the procedure (or intervention) was recorded in any of the 24 (12 from 2002-03 to 2006-07 and four prior to 2002-03) procedure fields in a HES record. A record is only included once in each count, even if the procedure is recorded in more than one procedure field of the record. Note that more procedures are carried out than episodes with a main or secondary procedure. For example, patients under going a ‘cataract operation’ would tend to have at least two procedures—removal of the faulty lens and the fitting of a new one—counted in a single episode. The figures will not match previously published data, as revised clinical codes defining bariatric surgery have been used. OPCS-4 codes used: G27.1 Total gastrectomy and excision of surrounding tissue G27.2 Total gastrectomy and anastomosis of oesophagus to duodenum G27.3 Total gastrectomy and interposition of jejunum G27.4 Total gastrectomy and anastomosis of oesophagus to transposed jejunum G27.5 Total gastrectomy and anastomosis of oesophagus to jejunum NEC G27.8 Other specified total excision of stomach G27.9 Unspecified total excision of stomach G28.1 Partial gastrectomy and anastomosis of stomach to duodenum G28.2 Partial gastrectomy and anastomosis of stomach to transposed jejunum G28.3 Partial gastrectomy and anastomosis of stomach to jejunum NEC G28.4 Sleeve gastrectomy and duodenal switch G28.5 Sleeve gastrectomy NEC G28.9 Unspecified partial excision of stomach G30:1 Gastroplasty NEC G30.3 Partitioning of stomach using band G30.4 Partitioning, of stomach using staples G31.1 Bypass of stomach by anastomosis of oesophagus to duodenum G31.2 Bypass of stomach by anastomosis of stomach to duodenum G31.3 Revision of anastomosis of stomach to duodenum G31.4 Conversion to anastomosis of stomach to duodenum G31.5 Closure of connection of stomach to duodenum G31.6 Attention to connection of stomach to duodenum G31.8 Other specified connection of stomach to duodenum G31.9 Unspecified connection of stomach to duodenum G31.0 Conversion from previous anastomosis of stomach to duodenum G32.1 Bypass of stomach by anastomosis of stomach to transposed jejunum G32.2 Revision of anastomosis of stomach to transposed jejunum G32.3 Conversion to anastomosis of stomach to transposed jejunum G32.4 Closure of connection of stomach to transposed jejunum G32.5 Attention to connection of stomach to transposed jejunum G32.8 Other specified connection of stomach to transposed jejunum G32.9 Unspecified connection of stomach to transposed jejunum G32.0 Conversion from previous anastomosis of stomach to transposed jejunum G33.1 Bypass of stomach by anastomosis of stomach to jejunum NEC G33.2 Revision of anastomosis of stomach to jejunum NEC G33.3 Conversion to anastomosis of stomach to jejunum NEC G33.4 Open reduction of intussusception of gastroenterostomy G33.5 Closure of connection of stomach to jejunum NEC G33.6 Attention to connection of stomach to jejunum G33.8 Other specified other connection of stomach to jejunum G33.9 Unspecified other connection of stomach to jejunum G33.0 Conversion from previous anastomosis of stomach to jejunum NEC G38.7 Removal of gastric band G48.1 Insertion of gastric bubble G48.2 Attention to gastric bubble G71.6 Duodenal switch 4 Socio-economic group The socio-economic group used is derived from the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD). IMD is a measure of multiple deprivation which ranks the relative deprivation of each area of England in a number domains (such as crime and income) and then combines the individual scores to produce a composite score for each area. The patient’s residential postcode is then mapped to one of these areas and summarised into 10 groups for presentation The version of IMD used was published in 2004. See: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/communities/pdf/131206.pdf for further details. 5 Ethnicity Ethnicity data may not be good enough to allow accurate analysis, including analysis of ethnic differences. Ethnic group was collected from 1 April 1995 to 31 March 2002 and ethnic category, using the definitions in the 2001 census, from 1 April 2002. Patients are asked to select their category from a standard list, and some decline to do this. Data may therefore be incomplete and of poor quality. 6 Assessing growth through time HES figures are available from 1989-90 onwards. Changes to the figures over time need to be interpreted in the context of improvements in data quality and coverage (particularly in earlier years), improvements in coverage of independent sector activity (particularly from 2006-07) and changes in NHS practice. For example, apparent reductions in activity may be due to a number of procedures which may now be undertaken in out-patient settings and so no longer include in admitted patient HES data. 7 There was a change in the ethnic categories during this period and while some providers adopted the new definitions others still used the old definition. Note: Data quality HES are compiled from data sent by more than 300 NHS trusts and primary care trusts in England and from some independent sector organisations for activity commissioned by the English NHS. The NHS Information Centre for health and social care liaises closely with these organisations to encourage submission of complete and valid data and seeks to minimise inaccuracies. While this brings about improvement over time, some shortcomings remain. Source: Hospital Episode Statistics (HES), Health and Social Care Information Centre 155W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 156W

Oestrogen Organs donated in the United Kingdom for transplant but not used, April 1997 to March 2012 Number Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Kidney Pancreas1 Heart Lung Liver Total if he will make an assessment of the amount of oestrogen in drinking tap water; and if he will make an 2006-07 62 47 6 33 48 196 assessment of the amount of oestrogen found in 2007-08 100 108 3 36 50 297 take-away food. [109797] 2008-09 131 162 3 65 69 430 2009-10 164 170 2 50 75 461 Anne Milton: The Drinking Water Inspectorate, on 2010-11 178 189 4 40 88 499 behalf of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food 2011-12 193 161 0 18 94 466 and Rural Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Total 1,535 1,044 85 661 802 4,127 Meriden (Mrs Spelman), has carried out and published 1 Including islets (since 2008-09). Source: a risk assessment on endocrine disrupting chemicals, NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT). including oestrogen hormones. The most recent evidence Reasons for non-use shows that it is highly unlikely that these substances are Percentage present in drinking water. In addition, water companies are required by law to risk assess each water supply and Organ 57.7 to test the raw water for any substances that might be Donor 9.3 present at a level of concern to public health. Recipient 2.7 Logistical 1.2 Oestrogens are natural hormones and as such will be Other 29.2 found in foods of animal origin such as meat, eggs and Source: milk. Oestrogenic hormones are produced naturally by NHSBT. some plants. Very low levels of various synthetic chemicals The introduction of the Organ Donation Taskforce with oestrogenic activity can also be present in some recommendations has meant more families being foods. Any takeaway food comprising one or more of approached and subsequently agreeing to donate their these ingredients may contain traces of oestrogens. The loved ones organs. This has resulted in a steady increase Food Standards Agency has not conducted any survey in the number of transplants in this country over the to assess the levels of oestrogens in takeaway foods and past seven years, and a 34% increase in deceased donation has no plans to do so. since 2007-08. However by approaching more potential donors this has also increased the number of donors Operating Costs whose organs are unsuitable for donation. The reason for non-use of organs is recorded as one Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for of five categories. The most common reason is because Health how much was spent on the administration of of a problem with the organ itself, which on retrieval his Department in (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) leads to the organ being classed as unsuitable for 2011-12. [109838] transplantation. Other reasons include a problem with the donor for example background checks highlighting Mr Simon Burns: Administrative expenditure is published a previous health condition; a problem with a recipient in the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts. for example if they become too unwell for transplant to Figures for 2009-10 and 2010-11 were £227.2 million take place; or logistical issues such as the timeframe to and £247.3 million respectively.Administration expenditure get the organ to the recipient hospital being too short. for 2011-12 will be published in the 2011-12 Annual Where the reason for not accepting an organ for transplant Report and Accounts. is more detailed than fits in the above categories or the reason is not clarified by the transplant centre, it is Organs: Donors recorded as ’other’.

Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for Out-patients: Attendance Health how many donated organs were discarded by the NHS in each financial year since 1997-98. [110257] Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the average cost to the NHS is of a missed Anne Milton: The information requested is provided out-patient appointment. [109641] in the following table: Organs donated in the United Kingdom for transplant but not used, April 1997 to Mr Simon Burns: No estimates have been made centrally March 2012 of the cost to the NHS of missed outpatient appointments. Number Kidney Pancreas1 Heart Lung Liver Total Palliative Care

1997-98 70 20 9 52 34 185 1998-99 84 7 12 54 37 194 Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for 1999- 76 5 11 22 37 151 Health what steps his Department is taking to support 2000 awareness of palliative care facilities and services. 2000-01 89 7 5 35 39 175 [109530] 2001-02 80 21 8 40 32 181 2002-03 76 33 9 42 52 212 Paul Burstow: We are continuing with the implementation 2003-04 49 33 6 48 40 176 of the Department’s “End of Life Care Strategy”. The 2004-05 93 33 3 62 46 237 strategy recognises the importance of ensuring patients, 2005-06 90 48 4 64 61 267 carers and families have timely access to relevant information 157W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 158W about conditions and services. Patients and carers should The General Medical Council has also published be appropriately assessed and offered a care plan, which detailed guidance on making decisions on cardiopulmonary will provide much of this information. resuscitation in “Treatment and care towards the end of The National Institute for Health and Clinical life: good practice in decision making (2010)”. This Excellence’s “Quality Standard for End of life care for encompasses the discussions that doctors must consider adults”, published in November 2011, sets out the when making decisions about cardiopulmonary importance of people approaching the end of life and resuscitation. This guidance can be found at: their families and carers being provided with information www.gmc-uk.org/End_of_life.pdf_32486688.pdf and, for people approaching the end of life, being offered a personalised care plan. Postgraduate Education: Fees and Charges The NHS Choices website has a range of information on health and care services as well as information on Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for health issues. Health how much his Department provided for www.nhs.uk postgraduate course fees at higher education institutions in England in 2011-12. [109385] Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the cost was of palliative care in acute Anne Milton: This information is not collected by the hospitals in England and Wales in (a) 2009, (b) 2010 Department. and (c) 2011. [109909] Postgraduate training covers a wide range of professions and may be funded by individual employers, the individual Paul Burstow: This information is not collected centrally. or through the multi professional education and training For England, the Department conducted a special budget dependent on the course undertaken. exercise to collect information on expenditure by primary The MPET budget for 2012-13 is £4.9 billion. This care trusts on specialist palliative care for adults in budget funds education and training for health care 2010-11. These data include some information on professions, part of which covers postgraduate education expenditure in hospitals. However, as this is specialist and training for 44,649 medical trainees. palliative care only, it does not provide a full picture of MPET is not ring-fenced. Strategic health authorities palliative care expenditure in hospitals. These data are (SHAs), in conjunction with their associated deaneries, available on the Department’s website: higher educations institutes, primary care trusts and www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/ national health service trusts are responsible for PublicationsPolicyAndGuidance/DH_086277 commissioning the appropriate level of health care The health service in Wales is a devolved responsibility. workforce training posts to meet the needs of the local population. It is the responsibility of SHAs to invest the Mr Charles Walker: To ask the Secretary of State for budget appropriately, as local NHS organisations are Health what requirements are placed on hospitals to best placed to assess the health needs of their local inform next of kin when a do not resuscitate order is health community and plan the workforce they require put in place; and if he will make a statement. [110078] to deliver services for patients.

Anne Milton: The British Medical Association, the Primary Care Trusts: North West Resuscitation Council (UK) and the Royal College of Nursing have issued a joint statement “Decisions relating Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (2007)”, which includes how much funding has been allocated to each primary guidance on communication and discussion with patients, care trust in the North West in 2012-13; and if he will or those close to patients who lack capacity, around estimate the funding that they would receive if age such complex and sensitive decisions, and can be found rather than deprivation had been the prime at: determinant of funding allocations. [109938] www.resus.org.uk/pages/dnar.htm The Department commends this guidance as an Mr Simon Burns: The revenue allocations made to appropriate basis for hospital trusts to develop resuscitation primary care trusts (PCTs) in the North West in 2012-13 policies. are provided in the following table.

Growth in total revenue allocations PCT Total revenue allocations (£000) (£000) Growth in total revenue allocations (%)

Ashton, Leigh and Wigan PCT 589,137 16,064 2.8 Blackburn with Darwen Teaching 298,192 8,084 2.8 Care Trust Plus Blackpool PCX 301,794 8,205 2.8 Bolton PCT 502,437 13,746 2.8 Bury PCT 324,995 8,843 2.8 Central and Eastern Cheshire PCT 745,929 20,305 2.8 Central Lancashire PCT 791,192 21,515 2.8 Cumbria Teaching PCT 893,078 24,404 2.8 East Lancashire Teaching PCT 717,666 19,601 2.8 Halton and St Helens PCT 615,521 16,845 2.8 159W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 160W

Growth in total revenue allocations PCT Total revenue allocations (£000) (£000) Growth in total revenue allocations (%)

Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale 407,377 11,150 2.8 PCT Knowsley PCT 344,256 9,416 2.8 Liverpool PCT 1,034,541 28,195 2.8 Manchester PCT 1,061,585 29,076 2.8 North Lancashire Teaching PCT 593,728 16,276 2.8 Oldham PCT 434,044 11,866 2.8 Salford PCT 489,352 13,300 2.8 Sefton PCT 550,990 14,962 2.8 Stockport PCT 495,946 13,471 2.8 Tameside and Glossop PCT 441,929 11,988 2.8 Trafford PCT 389,916 10,594 2.8 Warrington PCT 334,239 9,104 2.8 Western Cheshire PCT 427,388 11,638 2.8 Wirral PCT 647,784 17,619 2.8 Notes: 1. Total revenue allocations include PCT recurrent allocations and non-recurrent allocations for primary dental care, pharmaceutical services, general ophthalmic services and support for joint working between health and social care. 2. The weighted capitation formula was not applied for the PCT recurrent revenue allocations in 2012-13 and all PCTs received a uniform uplift. This wastoallow PCTs stability in a year of transition.

Age is the primary determinant of an individual’s Sexually Transmitted Infections need for health care along with other factors and these are reflected in the PCT allocations formula. Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health It is not possible to estimate what allocations would how many people in each (a) socio-economic, (b) have been under different formulae and different decisions ethnic and (c) age group were diagnosed with a on the pace of movement in allocations towards those sexually transmitted disease in each of the last 10 years. determined by the formula; this would be little more [109603] than speculation. Anne Milton: The data collected by the Health Protection Prostate Cancer Agency (HPA) on all acute sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by socio-economic deprivation, ethnicity and age group are available only for 2009 and 2010. Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will consider including one and five year The information is provided in tables 1, 2 and 3 as survival rates for prostate cancer in the NHS Outcomes follows. Tables 1 and 2 contain data from genitourinary Framework. [109387] medicine (GUM) clinics only as data by ethnicity and area of residence are not collected in all community Paul Burstow: The NHS Outcomes Framework is settings reporting chlamydia data. Table 3 contains data designed to be a balanced, high-level set of outcome from GUM clinics and also chlamydia diagnoses made goals that signal improving quality across the breadth in community settings in the 15 to 24-year-old age of national health service services. We consulted fully group. on which indicators to include in it, and selected indicators Acute STIs include the following diagnoses: across a range of population groups and health conditions. Chlamydia (complicated and uncomplicated); We considered including a specific indicator on prostate Gonorrhoea (complicated and uncomplicated); cancer but decided that it was not suitable, because Syphilis (primary, secondary and early latent); one-year and five-year cancer survival can artificially be Genital Herpes simplex (first episode); elevated by increased prostate specific antigen testing, without necessarily reducing mortality. Genital Warts (first episode); However, the Outcomes Framework contains seven Non-specific genital infection/urethritis; indicators on cancer, including the under-75 mortality Chancroid; rate from cancer, which covers prostate cancer alongside Lymphogranuloma venerum (LGV); all other types of cancer. Donovanosis; Molluscum contagiosum; Publications Trichomoniasis; Scabies; and Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Pediculus pubis. Health how many publications have been issued by his Table 1: The number and rates of acute STIs by deprivation quintile using the Department since May 2010. [109821] Index of Multiple Deprivation, England, 2009-10 Number Rates per 100,000 Mr Simon Burns: In the period 1 May 2010 to 23 May population 2012, there were 650 publications added to the Department’s Deprivation Quintile 2009 2010 2009 2010 website at: Most deprived 83,567 87,467 816.0 854.1 www.dh.gov.uk/health/category/publications 2nd most deprived 74,028 75,350 718.0 730.8 161W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 162W

Table 1: The number and rates of acute STIs by deprivation quintile using the Table 3: The number and rates of acute STIs by age group, Englan, 2009-10 Index of Multiple Deprivation, England, 2009-10 Number Rates per 100,000 Number Rates per 100,000 population population Deprivation Quintile 2009 2010 2009 2010 Age group 2009 2010 2009 2010

3rd most deprived 55,526 55,645 533.3 534.4 4th most deprived 44,288 45,354 426.7 436.9 <15 668 601 54.7 49.1 Least deprived 38,523 39,224 368.1 374.8 15 to 19 108,448 104,858 3,274.6 3,210.2 Notes: 1. Data are sourced from the Genitourinary Medicine Clinic Activity Dataset (GUMCAD) and are collected from all GUM clinics in England. 20 to 24 153,343 152,661 4,314.3 4,233.8 2. GUMCAD does not collect data on the socio-economic status of individuals. Data on the area of residence of patients attending GUM clinics 25 to 34 99,637 97,401 1,470.7 1,412.7 are collected and this was used to assign each patient to a Lower Super Output Area (LSOA) in England. Deprivation was measured using the Index of 35 to 44 38,523 37,386 506.2 500.5 Multiple Deprivation (IMD) for each in England. All LSOAs were ranked according to the IMD score and assigned to quintiles (IMD group 1—least deprived; IMD group 5—most deprived). 45 to 64 20,103 20,895 154.1 157.8 3. LSOA data was not known for around 37,000 cases in 2009 and 17,000 cases in 2010 and so are excluded from the table. 65+ 1,151 1,238 13.6 14.4 4. The data available from the GUMCAD returns are the number of diagnoses made, not the number of patients diagnosed. Unknown 104 145 — — 5. Rates per 100,000 population have been calculated using mid-2009 ONS population estimates. Source: Total 421,977 415,185 814.5 794.9 Health Protection Agency, GUMCAD returns. Date of data: 24 May 2012. Table 2: The number and rates of acute STIs by ethnic group, England, 2009-10 Notes: Number Rates per 100,000 1. Data are spurced from the Genitourinary Medicine Clinic Activity Dataset population (GUMCAD), National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP) and non- GUM, non-NCSP returns. Ethnicity 2009 2010 2009 2010 2. The data available are the number of diagnoses made, not the number of patients diagnosed. White 244,571 236,938 539.7 522.9 3. The 15 to 24-year-old age group also contains data on chlamydia diagnoses Black or Black British 33,829 32,602 2,223.5 2,142.9 made in community settings. Asian or Asian British 10,338 10,695 326.4 337.7 4. The NCSP offers opportunistic chlamydia screening to those aged 15 to 24 years attending a variety of non-GUM clinic settings. Mixed 11,696 11,638 1,222.5 1,216.5 5. Rates per 100,000 population have been calculated using mid-2009 and mid- Other ethnic group 6,578 6,825 772.4 801.4 2010 ONS population estimates. Unknown 26,345 21,239 — — Source: Health Protection Agency, GUMCAD returns, NCSP returns and non-GUM, Total 333,357 319,937 643.4 617.5 non-NCSP returns. Date of data: 25 May 2012. Notes: 1. Data are sourced from the Genitourinary Medicine Clinic Activity Dataset (GUMCAD) and are collected from all GUM clinics in England. Prior to 2009 data on STIs were collected through the 2. The data available from the GUMCAD returns are the number of diagnoses KC60 data returns. This was an aggregate data return made, not the number of patients diagnosed. 3. Ethnicity was patient defined and was classified into standardised national and the data are not available in the requested breakdown. health service categories. Data by age group are available for 2001 to 2010 for the 4. Rates per 100,000 population have been calculated using mid-2009 ONS following STIs only (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital population estimates. Source: herpes, genital warts, and syphilis) and are included in Health Protection Agency, GUMCAD returns. Date of data: 25 May 2012. table 4.

Table 4: The number of diagnoses for selected STIs by age group, England, 2001-10 Age STI group- 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Chlamydia <15 236 243 300 304 317 328 332 356 281 272 15 to 19 17,294 20,580 23,158 25,375 25,975 26,115 28,479 64,755 71,603 70,946 20 to 24 24,435 28,865 32,444 35,853 37,053 38,133 40,788 72,178 81,942 83,392 25 to 34 18,747 20,007 20,898 22,318 23,181 24,534 26,280 27,123 26,160 25,242 35 to 44 4,928 5,435 5,701 5,836 6,051 6,367 6,844 6,669 6,651 6,487 45 to 64 1,125 1,245 1,328 1,556 1,747 1,903 2,227 2,405 2,608 2,807 65+ 59 57 78 73 65 87 83 95 94 131 Unknown 2,587 2,839 2,688 2,901 2,902 2,910 3,474 3,360 17 37 Total 69,411 79,271 86,595 94,216 97,291 100,377 108,507 176,941 189,356 189,314

Gonorrhoea <15 72 96 85 62 71 49 60 47 47 42 15 to 19 4,668 5,028 4,863 4,378 3,490 3,345 3,631 3,287 3,231 3,017 20 to 24 6,094 6,701 6,661 5,839 4,978 4,791 4,952 4,334 4,826 4,941 25 to 34 6,684 7,137 6,774 5,891 5,086 5,044 4,780 4,192 4,719 5,244 35 to 44 3,091 3,413 3,352 2,963 2,672 2,526 2,205 1,800 2,123 2,293 45 to 64 1,033 1,119 1,155 1,082 983 1,052 1,004 917 1,132 1,232 65+ 57 52 51 60 42 63 42 36 60 54 Unknown 499 577 405 394 310 321 445 372 6 12 163W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 164W

Table 4: The number of diagnoses for selected STIs by age group, England, 2001-10 Age STI group- 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Total 22,198 24,123 23,346 20,669 17,632 17,191 17,119 14,985 16,144 16,835

Anogenital <15 47 38 46 31 35 33 56 67 55 46 herpes: first episode 15 to 19 2,487 2,404 2,444 2,542 2,647 3,075 3,735 4,083 3,942 4,155 20 to 24 4,298 4,518 4,337 4,382 4,748 5,336 6,481 7,073 7,685 8,206 25 to 34 5,990 5,900 5,864 5,528 5,762 6,129 7,363 8,272 8,896 9,629 35 to 44 2,604 2,894 2,870 2,788 2,699 3,027 3,588 3,991 4,114 4,485 45 to 64 1,261 1,358 1,273 1,335 1,391 1,553 2,024 2,446 2,681 3,077 65+ 88 74 68 84 82 93 138 154 158 190 Unknown 31 73 1 4 15 8 102 8 5 6 Total 16,806 17,259 16,903 16,694 17,379 19,254 23,487 26,094 27,536 29,794

Syphilis: <1502001012400 primary, secondary and early latent 15 to 19 23 43 52 62 102 108 88 76 115 85 20 to 24 91 124 160 222 345 298 291 267 368 334 25 to 34 261 409 539 642 758 686 685 582 904 844 35 to 44 194 366 461 668 726 783 688 626 846 773 45 to 64 90 162 222 316 406 382 417 423 583 556 65+8111316213332193249 Unknown 368 443 558 700 818 825 1,004 877 3 9 Total 1,035 1,560 2,005 2,626 3,186 3,116 3,207 2,874 2,851 2,650

Anogenital <15 143 155 155 146 139 138 153 149 142 108 warts: first episode 15 to 19 11,383 11,518 12,192 13,220 13,490 14,225 15,653 16,364 15,973 14,463 20 to 24 20,625 21,177 21,893 23,049 23,532 24,129 25,814 27,109 26,825 26,750 25 to 34 19,756 19,885 19,689 19,977 20,014 20,157 21,593 22,141 22,119 21,587 35 to 44 6,600 7,097 7,207 7,518 7,305 7,478 7,926 7,959 8,168 7,778 45 to 64 2,702 2,754 2,986 3,108 3,171 3,358 3,632 4,109 4,252 4,368 65+ 203 183 188 212 189 210 272 313 316 310 Unknown 93 213 9 21 12 5 229 12 50 51 Total 61,505 62,982 64,319 67,251 67,852 69,700 75,272 78,156 77,845 75,415 Notes: 1. Data are sourced from the KC60 return (2001-08), Genitourinary Medicine Clinic Activity Dataset (GUMCAD) (2009-10), National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP) and non-GUM, non-NCSP returns (2008-10). 2. The data available are the number of diagnoses made, not the number of patients diagnosed. 3. The chlamydia 15 to 24-year-old age group also contains data on chlamydia diagnoses made in community settings. 4. The NCSP offers opportunistic chlamydia screening to those aged 15 to 24 years attending a variety of non-GUM clinic settings. Source: Health Protection Agency, KC60 returns, GUMCAD returns, NCSP returns and non-GUM, non-NCSP returns.

Sick Leave standard working day in the national health service. Different shift patterns and the 24-hour nature of employment in the NHS mean that a percentage of Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whole-time equivalents is the standard used to define what the rate of sickness absence was in each (a) NHS levels of sickness absence data in the NHS. organisation and (b) non-NHS independent sector treatment centre in each year since 1997-98; and how Sickness absence in the NHS is recorded in the electronic many work days were lost in each, in each year. [109727] staff record system, in which the start and end of each absence by NHS staff is inputted. Every quarter since Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is not April 2009, the NHS Information Centre has calculated available. the national percentage of whole-time equivalents that Sickness absence is not reported by the number of day’s absence because of the difficulty in defining a 165W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 166W the sum of these absences represents. The most recent and (b) recruited to the NHS in each year since figures for sickness absence can be found on the Information 1997-98. [109638] Centre website at: www.ic.nhs.uk/statistics-and-data-collections/workforce/ sickness-absence Paul Burstow: The number of social care workers is Data prior to April 2009 is not available. Due to the not collected centrally as social care workers are employed inconsistent ways in which data was collected prior to by local authorities and the voluntary sector in England this date, it is not possible to report accurate data before and not by the national health service. April 2009. The electronic staff record system only records data Qualified scientific, therapeutic and technical (ST&T) for NHS employees. As such there is no available sickness staff in social services employed by the NHS in England absence data for staff in non-NHS independent sector are shown for every year since 2001 in the following treatment centres. table. Occupation codes for ST&T staff in the social Social Workers services area of work were not introduced until 2001 so the figures were not collected prior to 2001. Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many social care workers were (a) employed in

NHS hospital and community health services: Qualified ST&T staff in the social services area of work in England by level as at 30 September each specified year Full-time equivalent 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

England 14 105 216 553 813 1,022 1,054 1,332 1,497 1,700 1,667

Consultant 1— 1— 1— 1— 1— 1—11213 therapist/scientist Manager 3 49 73 114 91 160 180 263 260 259 205 Therapist 11 57 112 414 717 860 870 1,062 1,228 1,436 1,454 Instructor/teacher 1— 1—224245644 Tutor 1— 1—29241 11—111— 1— 1 Zero. Notes: 1. ST&T—Scientific, Therapeutic and Technical. 2. Full-time equivalent figures are rounded to the nearest whole number. 3. Occupation codes for ST&T staff in the social services area of work were not introduced until 2001. The small numbers from 2001-04 are likely an under-representation of actual staff numbers until use of the code became established in later years. 4. ST&T staff in the social services area of work are former local authority social care staff who may be employed by primary care trusts and care trusts. These are staff who need to be (or work directly with) qualified social services staff to do their jobs within the organisation. For example social or youth workers, day-care advisers, child protection officers, family placement officers, rehabilitation staff, or handicapped service workers. (Note that this list is not exhaustive). 5. These staff are NOT to be confused with social services staff employed by local authorities working in areas such as child protection, homelessness and domestic abuse. Source: Health and Social Care Information Centre Non-Medical Workforce Census.

Surgery: Females Tranquilisers

Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what criteria his Department applies to determine Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for whether patients are addicted to tranquilisers. [109615] Health which health authorities have a policy of not operating on women aged over 35 years who have Anne Milton: The determination of a diagnosis of ruptured anterior cruciate ligaments. [109575] dependence is a clinical judgment. The system of classification commonly used by practitioners in the United Kingdom for such diagnoses Mr Simon Burns: We are not aware that any is the International Classification of Diseases System commissioner in the English national health service has (ICD-10), developed by the World Health Organization such a policy. We understand that there is some debate (WHO). ICD-10 notes that the substances may or may over the appropriate treatment for a ruptured anterior not have been medically prescribed and provides clear cruciate ligament, and that the choice between surgery criteria for a diagnosis of tranquilliser dependence under and alternatives such as physiotherapy may depend on code F13.2—Mental and behavioural disorders due to factors such as the patient’s general level of health and use of sedative hypnotics. activity. Where commissioners have a general policy to restrict access to certain treatments on the grounds of These guidelines suggest that a cluster of three or limited effectiveness, there should always be a transparent more problems are required for a definite diagnosis of and well-publicised process to allow exceptions to be dependence. Anyone identified with a tranquilliser considered in individual cases. withdrawal syndrome who is showing two other listed problems would meet these ICD-10 criteria for dependence. 167W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 168W

Tranquillisers: Misuse Cambridgeshire Sutton Essex Surrey Licit Licit Licit Licit Jim Dobbin: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Licit and Licit and Licit and Licit and what dedicated withdrawal services are provided for only illicit only illicit only illicit only illicit involuntary tranquilliser addiction in (a) South 2009 35 141 7 70 58 266 78 207 Cambridgeshire, (b) Sutton and Cheam and (c) 2010 34 137 6 83 62 290 75 239 Chelmsford and Guildford constituency; and how many 2011 32 149 13 80 61 333 78 267 patients were successfully treated in each of those constituencies in each of the last three years. [109259] Services to treat dependence are commissioned locally. Information about whether service providers organise Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for clinics or sessions specifically for people addicted to Health what his policy is on recognition of involuntary medicine is not collected centrally. tranquiliser addiction as a medical condition; what his Department’s definition is of involuntary tranquiliser addiction; and what estimate his Department has made Vaccination of the number of people diagnosed with involuntary tranquiliser addiction. [109394] Mr Barron: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether new vaccines will be included in the proposed Anne Milton: The National Drug Strategy focuses on value-based pricing scheme or continue to be procured tackling all drugs of dependency, including prescription via a tender process. [110058] and over-the-counter medicines. Services should be responsive to the needs of the individual, irrespective of Mr Simon Burns: In developing the value-based pricing an individual’s route to dependence. system, the aim is to create a system that has the capability to include the broadest possible range of new The determination of a diagnosis of dependence is a medicines, thus minimising the need for parallel clinical judgment. It does not depend on the cause of mechanisms. Notwithstanding this, we note that there dependence, although this would be a consideration in may be instances where it is sensible to conclude that an care planning. individual medicine should not be assessed .under value- The system of classification commonly used by based pricing. We will keep the situation under review. practitioners in the United Kingdom for such diagnoses If, as our work progresses, it becomes clear that some is the International Classification of Diseases System medicines, such as vaccines, would be better dealt with (ICD-10), developed by the World Health Organisation under different arrangements, we will consider alternative (WHO). ICD-10 gives clear criteria for a diagnosis of options. tranquilliser dependence under code F13.2—Mental and behavioural disorders due to use of sedative hypnotics. These guidelines suggest that a cluster of three or more problems are required for a definite diagnosis of WOMEN AND EQUALITIES dependence. Anyone identified with a tranquilliser withdrawal syndrome who is showing two other listed problems would meet these ICD-10 criteria for dependence. Equality and Human Rights Commission It has not been possible to establish a definite prevalence estimate of dependency on prescription or over the Philip Davies: To ask the Minister for Women and counter medicine. However, the National Drug Treatment Equalities what the average salary is at the Equality Monitoring System (NDTMS) does collect information and Human Rights Commission for (a) ethnic on the numbers of people in structured treatment for minority staff, (b) white ethnic background staff, (c) drug dependence. men and (d) women, excluding the salary of the The analyses for the report on Addiction to Medicine chairman. [110755] which was published by the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse on 11 May 2011 identified NDTMS Lynne Featherstone: The Equality and Human Rights data about the treatment of people being treated for Commission (EHRC) is an arm’s length body; the addiction to medicines. It is not possible to analyse following is based on information it has provided. NDTMS data by parliamentary constituency.Information Based on the salaries of EHRC employees1 as at 31 recorded on NDTMS about numbers treated for addiction March 2012, the average annual salary of the employee to medicine in the local drug partnerships which include groups requested are: the constituencies listed by the hon. Member for Heywood and Middleton (Jim Dobbin) is given in the following £ table. (a) Black and minority ethnic2 33,800 The columns headed ″licit only″ show the numbers of people treated for dependence to prescribed or over-the- (b) White 36,800 counter medicine when there is no concurrent use of (c) Men 36,800 illicit drugs. The columns headed ″licit and illicit″ show (d) Women 36,000 1 the numbers of people treated for dependence who are This does not include the Chair or the Commissioners (other than the Chief Executive, an ex-officio Commissioner, who is included). using licit and illicit drugs concurrently. The methodology 2 The EHRC calculates an overall average salary for all black and for analysing the NDTMS data is explained in Annex 1 minority ethnic employees. It does not calculate average salaries for of the NTA’s report in May 2011. each ethnic group. 169W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 170W

TREASURY Miss Chloe Smith: The independent Monetary Policy Committee’s (MPC) policy tools, including quantitative Banks easing (QE), are macroeconomic policy tools designed to affect the economy as a whole, in order to meet the 2% inflation target over the medium term. Lindsay Roy: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the likely risks to the The Bank of England estimates in its September banking system of the financial situation in Spain. 2011 Quarterly. Bulletin that QE has raised spending [109537] and activity in the UK economy in order to help hit the inflation target in the medium term. The Quarterly Mr Hoban: Exposures of UK banks to the eurozone Bulletin article also notes that given the strains in the periphery are published in annual reports and are given financial system, the MPC expected little impact through at: the bank lending channel. www.bankofengland.co.uk/statistics/Documents/bankstats/ The Government recognises that the flow of credit to 2012/Apr/TabC4.2.xls smaller businesses is constrained and ongoing pressures The Treasury conducts contingency planning for the on bank funding are affecting borrowing costs. In order UK banking system on the basis of a range of possible to address these pressures, the Government launched scenarios, including possible adverse events in the eurozone. the £20 billion National Loan Guarantee Scheme on 20 March to lower the cost of bank loans for smaller UK banks have taken action to strengthen their businesses and expanded the Business Finance Partnership overall resilience and the FSA continues to monitor UK to £1.2 billion at Budget 2012 to encourage the development banks against stress conditions. of non-bank lending channels for SMEs and mid-sized businesses. Ian Lucas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what information his Department holds on the Child Benefit proportion of UK bank customers who bank with (a) Barclays, (b) HSBC, (c) LloydsTSB and (d) RBS. [109848] Tom Greatrex: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many cases of child benefit fraud his Mr Hoban: The Office of Fair Trading’s report in Department investigated in (a) 2010, (b) 2011 and (c) 2008 into personal current accounts in the UK, provides 2012. [108129] information on the market shares of individual banks by number of customers. It is available online at: Mr Gauke [holding answer 21 May 2012]: The information requested is detailed in the following table: http://www.oft.gov.uk/shared_oft/reports/financial_products/ OFT1005.pdf Number of cases of child benefit Tax year fraud investigated. Building Societies 2009-10 10,106 Ian Lucas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 2010-11 15,533 how many building societies were registered in the UK 2011-12 14,102 in (a) 1985, (b) 1995, (c) 2005 and (d) 2011. [109847] 2012-13 to date 1,487 In 2010 HM Revenue and Customs carried out more Mr Hoban: In 1985 there were 167 registered building interventions on current awards as wel1 as validating societies. In 1995 there were 80, in 2005 there were 63 information to prevent fraudulent claims from entering and in 2011 there were 47. the system. HM Revenue and Customs also work collaboratively Business: Loans with other Government Departments to identify individuals who are not entitled to child benefit. Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) how much finance has been allocated Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the under the National Loan Guarantee scheme in each Exchequer how much funding he has allocated to the region and constituent part of the UK in the last 12 marketing of changes to child benefit for higher rate months; [109597] taxpayers. [109319] (2) how many businesses have accessed finance from the National Loan Guarantee scheme in each region Mr Gauke: The cost of marketing changes to child and constituent part of the UK in the last 12 months. benefit for taxpayers with income over £50,000 is estimated [109598] at £1 million per annum as set out in the Tax Information and Impact Note (TUN) which was published on HMRC’s Mr Hoban: The National Loan Guarantee scheme website: launched on 20 March 2012 and is currently being www.hmrc.gov.uk rolled out across the UK by the participating banks. Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr Darling: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Exchequer what discussions he has had with the Office what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the of National Statistics on whether the payments to be Bank of England’s quantitative easing programme on made to HM Revenue and Customs by higher rate bank lending to small business; and if he will make a taxpayers in receipt of child benefit are to be classified statement. [109920] as a tax. [109936] 171W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 172W

Mr Gauke: This is a decision solely for the independent published will relate to spring 2010. Minutes will be Office for National Statistics. published retrospectively as they may touch on policy development and personal information. Community Development As set out in the answer I gave the hon. Member on 21 May 2012, Official Report, column 422W, detailed Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Chancellor of the information on director and board member remuneration Exchequer what research his Department has is already published in The Crown Estate’s annual undertaken on the effect on community groups of the report. removal of the zero rate of VAT for alterations to listed buildings in community ownership. [110544] Debts Written Off

Mr Gauke: The impacts are set out in “Annex B—Table Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer of Impact for Individual Measures” of the HM Revenue how much bad debt was written off by his Department & Customs consultation document “VAT: Addressing in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if he will make a borderline anomalies” published in Budget 2012. statement. [110208] http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2012/vat-con-4801.pdf The consultation closed on 18 May 2012. HM Revenue Miss Chloe Smith: The Treasury did not write off any and Customs is now analysing the responses and a bad debts in 2010-11 or 2011-12. response document will be published before legislation is laid before Parliament in the summer. Disclosure of Information

Correspondence Jon Trickett: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much his Department spent on the updating of Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer published data in line with the Government’s how many letters to Ministers in his Department were transparency agenda in each month since September (a) not answered, (b) not answered within six months 2011. [110719] and (c) not answered within three months in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; how many such letters were from hon. Miss Chloe Smith: The Treasury’s work on the Members; and if he will make a statement. [109444] Government’s transparency agenda is part of the day to day activities of a number of departmental staff engaged Miss Chloe Smith: The information is as follows: in data preparation. Therefore the cost of publishing the transparency element of this work on a monthly Number basis since September 2011 is not separately identifiable. 2010 2011 Empty Property Total letters 10,811 14,453 answered Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Not answered 0 0 how many buildings owned by his Department and the Not answered within 31 3 six months bodies for which he is responsible have been empty for Not answered within 851 78 more than two years; and if he will make a statement. three months [110869] The table above provides data for the most recent Miss Chloe Smith: None. available calendar years. The Treasury is unable to provide data by financial year, or on the number of Equitable Life Assurance Society: Leicester letters received from hon. Members. This information is not held centrally and could be provided only at Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the disproportionate cost. Exchequer how many representations he has received On an annual basis the Cabinet Office publishes a on Equitable Life from policy holders resident in report to Parliament on the performance of Departments Leicester South constituency. [109696] in replying to Members correspondence. The report for 2011 was published on 15 March 2012, Official Report, Mr Hoban: The Treasury does not hold a breakdown columns 30-33WS. Reports for earlier years are available of the number of representations received on Equitable in the Library of the House. Life from Leicester South constituents. Crown Estate Excise Duties: Fraud

Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Michael Fallon: To ask the Chancellor of the pursuant to the answer of 21 May 2012, Official Report, Exchequer what estimate he has made of revenue lost column 422W, on the Crown Estate, if he will publish due to excise duty fraud in each of the last five years. the minutes of the Crown Estate’s remuneration committee [110150] since May 2010; and if he will make a statement. [110283] Miss Chloe Smith: HMRC estimates losses in revenue associated with illicit sales of beer, spirits, tobacco Miss Chloe Smith: The Crown Estate plans to begin products and oils. These are published in “Measuring publishing minutes of its remuneration committee meetings Tax Gaps 2011”, which is available online at: on its website shortly. The first set of minutes to be http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/measuring-tax-gaps.htm 173W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 174W

For beer, more recent and improved estimates were financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, are published in “Improved Beer Tax Gap Estimate: Lower for the independent Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Bound”, which is available online at: based on its judgment on the balance of risks to meeting http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/beer-tax-gap-feb2012.pdf the inflation target in the medium term. JP Morgan Finance (No. 4) Bill Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the potential effect on whether he sought legal advice on the compatability of (a) future availability of mortgage finance and (b) the Schedule 1, paragraph 2 of the Finance (No. 4) Bill cost of such finance of JP Morgan’s purchases of 2012 with the principle of confidentiality outlined in British residential mortgage-backed securities; and what section 18 of the Commissioners for Revenue and Customs action he is planning to take to safeguard the UK Act 2005; and whether he consulted on that issue. mortgage market in the event that JP Morgan’s trading [109921] operations are curtailed. [110116]

Mr Gauke: The Government’s position is that HMRC Mr Hoban: The Treasury, the Bank of England and has the function of collecting the high income child the FSA continue to work with industry to explore ways benefit charge, which a taxpayer will need to notify of encouraging more sustainable, transparent and HMRC about by way of their tax return. The disclosure standardised UK mortgage-backed securities markets to the taxpayer of very limited information that directly in order to lay the foundations for stronger markets in impacts on their own tax or child benefit position, and the future. The cost and availability of mortgages is a which is for the purpose of completing their tax return commercial decision for individual banks and building is a disclosure made for the purposes of HMRC’s societies. functions. There was no consultation on this issue. Having Manpower carefully examined all of the possible options, this is the best possible design. Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what target he has set to reduce headcount across his Industrial and Provident Societies Act 2002 Department, its non-departmental public bodies and executive agencies in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and (c) Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. [110229] (1) on which occasions the power under section 2 of the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 2002 has been Miss Chloe Smith: The Government have not set utilised; and if he will make a statement; [109397] targets to reduce headcount across HM Treasury, its (2) if he will assess the further potential for using non-departmental public bodies or Executive agencies. powers under section 2 of the Industrial and Provident Work force implications of the spending review settlement Societies Act 2002 to reduce administrative burdens for depend on internal budget allocations and subsequent co-operatives; and if he will make a statement. [109396] management decisions. Members: Correspondence Mr Hoban: The Government have not used the power under section 2 of the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 2002. The Government will keep this position under Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Chancellor of the review. Exchequer when he intends to answer the letter from the right hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton of 26 The Government are, however, committed to promoting March 2012 with regard to Mr Shaun Gordon. mutuals and fostering diversity within financial services. [110479] They have taken a number of steps to support this aim. In January 2012, the Legislative Reform Order (LRO) Mr Gauke: I have replied to the right hon. Member. came into effect. The LRO reduces administrative burdens on co-operatives, and allows credit unions to draw their Mutual Societies members from a wider base, removing restrictions on their growth. Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer The Government also announced in January that what estimate he has made of the number of full-time they will introduce a Co-operatives Consolidation Bill. equivalent staff who will transfer from his Department, This will put all legislation for co-operatives in one its non-departmental public bodies and Executive place, removing barriers to setting up a co-operative. agency workforce to a mutual in (a) 2011-12 and (b) 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. [110188] Interest Rates Miss Chloe Smith: There are no plans for the transfer Jonathan Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the of HM Treasury staff to a mutual in 2011-12 or 2012-13. Exchequer what assessment he has made of the IMF’s suggestion that the Bank of England should reassess National Insurance Contributions the efficacy of cutting interest rates below 0.5%; and if he will make a statement. [109886] Anne Marie Morris: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent estimate he has made of the Miss Chloe Smith: Decisions on setting bank rate, number of businesses that have participated in the and the additional monetary policy tool of asset purchases national insurance holiday. [108670] 175W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 176W

Mr Gauke: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given Danny Alexander: This is not HM Government’s on National Insurance Contributions, 14 May 2012, responsibility. The House of Lords is responsible for Official Report, column 43W. Peers’ allowances. Information on this is published regularly by Parliament on the parliamentary website: Non-domestic Rates: Public Houses http://www.parliament.uk/mps-lords-and-offices/members- allowances/house-of-lords/holallowances/hol-expenses04/ David Morris: To ask the Chancellor of the While it is the case that the House of Lords Supply Exchequer if he will take steps to harmonise business Estimate is formally presented to Parliament by the rates for public houses from pub turnover basis to the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, together with most normal ground rates applicable to other small business other Supply Estimates, the Treasury has no formal premises. [109303] control over, or responsibility for, the House of Lords expenditure thereby Voted. This reflects Parliament’s Mr Gauke: All non-domestic property has a rateable independence from the Executive. value assigned to it for business rates purposes which is equivalent to one common measure—rental value—whether Personal Service Company Arrangements it is an office, shop, factory or public house. Rateable values for pubs are based on actual rents although those rents are analysed alongside turnover to ensure similar Mr Winnick: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pubs are treated equally. This methodology has been what steps HM Revenue and Customs takes to check agreed with the British Beer and Pub Association. that individuals are genuinely involved in a business which would allow them to have personal service This uniform basis ensures consistency and fairness company arrangements instead of PAYE. [110104] in the way all non-domestic property is valued for rating. Mr Gauke: HMRC has no role to play in considering whether or not an individual is providing their services PAYE through a personal service company. HMRC does police the Intermediaries legislation Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the (more commonly referred to as IR35). This legislation Exchequer how many letters have been sent to requires intermediaries, such as personal service companies, individuals on incorrect payment of PAYE tax since to deduct income tax and national insurance contributions March 2011; and whether his Department has made an from income received by the company in respect of estimate of the number likely to be sent in the next 12 payments to it which would otherwise have been months. [107965] employment income of the individual and to do so according to a statutory formula. Mr Gauke: HMRC does not hold the information requested and could supply figures only at disproportionate HMRC carries out compliance activity on a risk cost. basis to ensure that intermediaries are complying with the requirements of IR35.That compliance activity has Stephen Timms: To ask the Chancellor of the recently been strengthened following the Office of Tax Exchequer with reference to the answer of 30 April Simplification’s review of IR35 and the Government’s 2012, Official Report, column 1197W, on PAYE, what announcement at Budget 2011 that the administration steps his Department is taking to reconcile payment of IR35 would be improved. information for employees who are paid using internet banking. [109556] Mr Winnick: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the number of personal service Mr Gauke: HMRC is not planning to reconcile PAYE company arrangements in the private sector. [110105] real time information (RTI) sent to HMRC, with the related payment to the employee’s bank account, where Mr Gauke: No such estimate is available. employees are paid using internet banking during the real time information (RTI) pilot year or when RTI is Mr Winnick: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer first implemented after the pilot. if he will require HM Revenue and Customs to interview Reconciliation of RTI with related payments to the those applying for a personal service company arrangement employees’ bank accounts will be undertaken where in order to assess that it is genuine. [110106] employees are paid by direct credit using a Bacs Service User Number. This payment method is used for the Mr Gauke: HMRC has no role to play in .considering majority of payments subject to PAYE.The reconciliation whether or not an individual is providing their services will be facilitated by a cross reference in the payment through a personal service company or in whether or instruction. not that is an appropriate working arrangement. Over time, HMRC may extend the requirement for a HMRC’s role is to ensure that those providing their cross reference to other electronic payment methods. services through personal service companies comply with the relevant tax and national insurance obligations Peers: Allowances and that includes compliance with the Intermediaries legislation (commonly known as IR35) as appropriate. Chris Bryant: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Personal service companies are legitimate commercial what the cost was of Peers’ allowances to the public arrangements, the Government recognises this and wants purse in each year from 2000 to 2011. [109983] to support genuine entrepreneurial activity. 177W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 178W

Mr Winnick: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Average waiting time (m:ss)1 if he will estimate the amount a person would save 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 annually in income tax if they earned annually (a) January 7:03 7:33 — £1,000,000, (b) £750,000, (c) £500,000, (d) £400,000, (e) £300,000, (f) £250,000, (g) £200,000, (h) £150,000 February 6:14 7:46 — and (i) £100,000 and instead of PAYE, they had a March 7:55 6:43 — 1 Average waiting time is defined as the time taken for a call to be personal service company arrangement. [110107] answered by an adviser once a customer has selected an option from the call steering menu. Mr Gauke: It is not possible to provide reliable estimates because there are too many variables to take into Calls to HMRC from customers telephoning 0845 consideration including what amount of payrolled salary 300 0627 are routed through a virtual network of centrally a person might be taking out of the personal service managed contact centres to advisers who also handle company, what employer and employee national insurance calls from customers telephoning other HMRC helplines contributions need to be paid, what dividends are being (for example, the self-assessment helpline). Consequently paid and to who, what expenses might be allowable, the HMRC are unable to disaggregate the number of advisers handing of profits retained within the personal service dealing with queries from customers telephoning 0845 company, etc. 300 0627 from those dealing with queries on other HMRC helplines. Even if such estimates were possible, focusing exclusively on the tax difference (“saving”) without considering all Chris Leslie: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer such other factors would present an unbalanced and what the number of callers to HM Revenue and misleading comparison. Customs PAYE tax code helpline 0845 3000 627 Working through a personal service company is a waiting to be answered at any one time was (a) on perfectly legitimate commercial arrangement and there average and (b) at its peak in the latest period for is no presumption that someone working in this way is which figures are available. [109110] necessarily achieving income tax “savings” by doing so. Mr Gauke [holding answer 23 May 2012]: For April Publications 2012, the information requested is as follows: (a) Average—1,323 callers. Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many publications have been issued by (b) Peak (highest number at any one time)—2,212 callers. his Department since May 2010. [109822] For April 2012, HMRC contact centres handled 1.1 million calls to the PAYE helpline. Miss Chloe Smith: Since May 2010, the Treasury has HMRC contact centres handle around 60 million issued 258 publications, which are all available on its calls per annum using a sophisticated telephone platform website. and technology that is standard across large contact centre operations and is designed to be robust and Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the flexible when dealing with large numbers of incoming Exchequer how many (a) circulars and (b) telephone calls. consultation documents were issued by his Department in each of the last two years. [110510] Rachel Reeves: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with reference to the answer of 1 May 2012, Miss Chloe Smith: The Treasury has issued no circulars Official Report, column 1534W, on the Behavioural and 77 consultations in the last two years. Sciences Unit, what the change in wording in letters sent out by HM Revenue and Customs that led to Revenue and Customs savings of £30 million a year was; and how much the research that led to the change cost. [109607] Chris Leslie: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the average (a) call waiting time and (b) number Mr Gauke: The change in the wording of letters was of staff allocated to respond to calls was for HM one of several interventions carried out by the Behavioural Revenue and Customs PAYE tax code helpline 0845 Insights Team (BIT) and Government Departments. 3000 627 in each month of the last two years. [109109] These interventions are set out in the report ‘Applying behavioural insights to reduce fraud, error and debt’, Mr Gauke: [holding answer 23 May 2012]: The available on the Cabinet Office website. The wording of information requested is as follows: the letters in question was changed to highlight the fact Average waiting time (m:ss)1 that ‘9 out of 10 people in Britain pay their tax on time’. 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 The costs of the research consisted solely of the time spent developing the letters by members of BIT and the April 6:48 7:37 8:37 Debt Management and Banking division in HMRC. All May 5:58 6:31 — the people involved were full-time civil servants, carrying June 5:58 4:29 — out their core role to improve performance, so there July 5:48 6:11 — were no additional costs involved. August 4:58 4:29 — September 3:43 2:40 — Michael Fallon: To ask the Chancellor of the October 2:21 3:15 — Exchequer how many UK HM Customs and Revenue November 2:39 4:19 — officers are based in China; and how many have been December 3:46 6:48 — based in China in each of the last five years. [109865] 179W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 180W

Mr Gauke: HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Tax Avoidance currently has two officers based in China. In the last five years HMRC has had the following number of officers based in China: Mr Winnick: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what steps his Department is taking to prevent 2011: one officer; UK-based nationals from using offshore arrangements 2010: four officers; to minimise their income tax; [110033] 2009: two officers; and (2) if he will estimate the number of UK-based 2008: two officers. nationals who use offshore arrangements for income Revenue and Customs: Telephone Services tax purposes; [110103] (3) if he will ensure that no UK-based national may Simon Hart: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer be an adviser to himself or any other Minister if the how much income was generated by the HM Revenue individual has offshore arrangements for income tax and Customs’ helpline in (a) 2009, (b) 2010 and (c) purposes; and if he will make a statement. [110032] 2011. [110612] Mr Gauke: The Government is committed to tackling Mr Gauke: I would refer the hon. Member to the all forms of avoidance and evasion and ensuring everyone answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for pays their fair share of tax. HMRC has worked to Shipley (Philip Davies), on 6 July 2010, Official Report, address the specific risks presented by offshore arrangements column 185W and to the answer that I gave to the hon. by enhancing its compliance work, extending the UK’s Member for Kilmarnock and Loudoun (Cathy Jamieson), network of bilateral agreements with foreign jurisdictions on 17 May 2012, Official Report, column 301W. and exploiting new sources of information obtained from overseas. Examples of those efforts include: Royal Bank of Canada Compliance work. The Liechtenstein Disclosure Facility (LDF) was signed in August 2009 and will run from 1 September 2009 to Tessa Jowell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 6 April 2016. UK residents with bank accounts in Liechtenstein whether the Royal Bank of Canada falls within the are now being invited to declare unpaid tax liabilities to HMRC. remit of the Independent Banking Commission. Those who do not come forward face their accounts being closed [110136] or having tax deducted from their balances. Registrations for this facility are currently running ahead of expectations and the expected yield, originally projected to be £1 billion, could be up to Mr Hoban: The Treasury will issue a White Paper on £3 billion. 14 June setting out the Government’s final proposals on the Independent Commission on Banking (ICB) New bilateral agreements. The. UK and Switzerland have recommendations. This will include details on the scope signed an historic agreement to tackle offshore tax evasion. The agreement is expected to recover billions of pounds of unpaid tax of the retail ring fence and other banking reform measures. and the long-running problem of offshore tax evasion using Swiss The Treasury does not comment on the individual bank accounts will be addressed. cases or circumstance of specific banks. Exploiting new sources of information. A new dedicated unit to exploit new sources of offshore data became fully operational Tessa Jowell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1 November 2011. The Offshore Coordination Unit comprises if he will take steps to investigate allegations of skilled investigators and other specialists who are using the improved wrongdoing at the Royal Bank of Canada. [110137] data about offshore accounts available to HMRC, and co-ordinating the range of HMRC efforts to combat offshore tax evasion. Mr Hoban: The investigation of alleged wrongdoing We currently hold no estimate of the number of is a matter for the Financial Services Authority (FSA), UK-based nationals who use offshore arrangements for whose day-to-day operations are independent from income tax purposes. It is not possible to derive an government control and influence. I have asked the accurate estimate of the total number of UK nationals FSA to write to the hon. Member with the information who use offshore arrangements for income tax purposes requested. A copy of the response will be placed in the due to their nature and complexity. Library of the House. As a result of the review of the tax arrangements of Tax Allowances: Charitable Donations public sector appointees, new tighter rules governing ‘off payroll’ appointments in central Government will be brought in this year. This will enable Government Helen Goodman: To ask the Chancellor of the employers to assure themselves that their senior staff Exchequer if he will publish his assessment of the cost are meeting their tax obligations. to charities of limiting tax reliefs which individuals can claim. [109348] Vaccination Mr Gauke: The Government announced at Budget 2012 a proposal to introduce a limit on previously uncapped income tax reliefs from April 2013. Mr Barron: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer As set out in the Budget, the Government are exploring (1) when he expects the development of techniques for with charities and philanthropists ways to ensure that direct social cost benefit analysis to be completed; and this measure does not impact significantly on charities when he expects such techniques to form part of the that depend on large donations. Green Book; [109899] A consultation document on the implementation of (2) what his policy is on the inclusion of vaccines in the policy will be published in the summer. societal cost-benefit analysis; [109900] 181W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 182W

(3) whether he plans to review the discount rate in the Mr Gauke: The impacts are set out in “Annex B—Table Green Book; and what methodology his Department of Impact for Individual Measures” of the HM Revenue would use to review the discount rate in the Green and Customs consultation document “VAT: Addressing Book; [109902] borderline anomalies” published in Budget 2012: (4) if he will consider including vaccines in the next http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2012/vat-con-4801.pdf edition of the Green Book. [109901] VAT and Excise Duties Danny Alexander: The information requested is as follows. Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the Techniques for direct social cost benefit analysis Exchequer what the total yield from (a) VAT and (b) Social Cost benefit analysis is already the preferred excise duty was in each of the last two years. [109812] method for quantifying as far as is reasonable and proportionate the social welfare of all alternative spending Mr Gauke: Total tax revenues from VAT and excise proposals. The Green Book provides Government guidance duties (including fuel, tobacco, alcohol, air passenger on the methods and techniques to be used to assess the duty, insurance premium tax, landfill tax, climate change effects of public spending and regulatory proposals. It levy, and aggregates levy) are published monthly by is technical guidance in the same way as accounting HMRC, available at; practices and it together with its supplements, provides a high level framework within which individual http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/tax_receipts/tax-receipts-and- Departments and public bodies develop more detailed taxpayers.pdf guidance on the application of the general principles to their area of specialist concern. VAT: Bakery Products Inclusion of vaccines in societal cost benefit analysis Vaccines as with other medical procedures currently Luciana Berger: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer fall within the arrangements referred to in the answer (1) whether he has received any representations from above. bakeries of the cost incurred from changing their heated Review of the Green Book discount rate cabinets as a result of the planned changes to VAT on freshly baked goods; [110111] All aspects of the Green Book methodology are considered periodically to ensure that they remain (2) what assessment his Department has made of the appropriate and reflective of informed academic and potential effects on employment in bakeries of the professional thinking as applied to the economics of changes proposed in Budget 2012 to charge VAT on public sector spending decisions. There are currently no freshly baked goods. [110112] plans to amend the social discount rate. Including vaccines in the next edition of the Green Book Mr Gauke: In answer to your question about cost the Specific spending items such as vaccines do not need impacts are set out in “Annex B—Table of Impact for to be specifically identified in the Green Book as they Individual Measures” of the HM Revenue and Customs are covered by its application to the assessment of all consultation document “VAT: Addressing borderline public spending options. anomalies” published in Budget 2012. http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2012/vat-con-4801.pdf VAT With regards to representations the consultation closed on 18 May. HM Revenue and Customs is now analysing Helen Goodman: To ask the Chancellor of the the responses and a response document will be published Exchequer (1) if he will publish his assessment of the before legislation is laid before Parliament in the summer. effect on charities which are not places of worship of his decision to withdraw the VAT zero rate of John McDonnell: To ask the Chancellor of the alterations to listed buildings; [R] [109347] Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect (2) if he will estimate the cost to colleges in Oxford on the number of people employed in bakeries of the and Cambridge universities of his decision to withdraw introduction of VAT on freshly baked goods. [110626] VAT at the zero rate from alterations to listed buildings. [109591] Mr Gauke: The impacts are set out in Annex B—‘Table of Impact for Individual Measures’ of the HM Revenue Mr Gauke: Annex B—Tables of Impact for Individual and Customs consultation document ‘VAT: Addressing Measures in HM Revenue & Customs consultation borderline anomalies’, published in Budget 2012: document “VAT: Addressing Borderline Anomalies”, http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2012/vat-con-4801.pdf published at Budget 2012, sets out estimates for VAT which will be raised from approved alterations to listed buildings and a summary of impacts: VAT: Caravans http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2012/vat-con-4801.pdf No further breakdown of the information is available. Ian Paisley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he plans to publish draft legislation on static David Morris: To ask the Chancellor of the caravan holiday homes. [110162] Exchequer what assessment he has made of the financial effects of his proposals for VAT on caravans Mr Gauke: The Government will publish draft legislation on the holidays and parks homes industry. [109393] later in the summer. 183W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 184W

Working Tax Credit Gregory Barker: DECC does not record detailed costs of updating published data in line with the Ann Coffey: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Government’s transparency agenda. However, we have in order to achieve the savings set out in the Budget estimated that costs are in the region of £250,000 per 2012 Red Book for 2012-13 of £550 million from an year. Although’ these cannot be broken down into increased working tax credit requirement for couples precise monthly expenditure, based on the estimated with children, what assumptions he made about the annual spend this would equate to approximately £187,500 number of families who would not be able to increase for the period from September 2011 to May 2012 inclusive. their hours to meet the new requirement. [108380] Electricity

Miss Chloe Smith [holding answer 23 May 2012]: In Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State the spending review 2010, the policy costing for increasing for Energy and Climate Change how many people are the working hours requirement for couples with children seconded to his Department to work on electricity from 16 to 24 hours assumed a net 6% reduction to the market reform; and from where they are seconded. yield of the policy to account for behavioural responses [109665] which included, among other things, the effect of households increasing their hours and those misreporting Charles Hendry: There are currently four people seconded their hours. The OBR forecasts, published on 21 March to work on electricity market reform, from Ofgem, 2012, include any wider indirect effects of the policy. National Grid, KPMG and Barclays. Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many people have ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE been seconded to his Department to work on electricity market reform since May 2010; and from where they are seconded. [109666] Correspondence Charles Hendry: Since May 2010, 10 people have Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy been seconded to work on electricity market reform, and Climate Change how many letters to Ministers in from the following organisations: Deloitte, Ofgem (two his Department were (a) not answered, (b) not secondees), National Grid, Bright Futures NZ Ltd/PA answered within six months and (c) not answered Consulting, Xero Energy Ltd, KPMG (two secondees), within three months in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12; Barclays, and Cambridge university. how many such letters were from hon. Members; and if he will make a statement. [109435] Electricity: Meters

Gregory Barker: The Secretary of State for Energy Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for and Climate Change, the right hon. Member for Kingston Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on the and Surbiton (Mr Davey), can confirm the following: development of a common language between smart appliances and the smart grid. [109928] There were no letters unanswered in 2010-11. There are 161 cases in 2011-12 where a letter is currently being Charles Hendry: The smart metering system will employ drafted and 37 of these are from hon. Members. open standards for communication within the home. With respect to parts (b) and (c): These should be extensible to support smart appliances (i) 2010-11 and the smart grid. = three months = 817 letters, of which 126 were from hon. Electricity: Prices Members. = six months = 16 letters, of which two were from hon. Laura Sandys: To ask the Secretary of State for Members. Energy and Climate Change with reference to the (ii) 2011-12 answer of 20 December 2011, Official Report, column = three months = 412 letters, of which 115 were from hon. 1160W, on electricity: prices, what his latest estimate is Members. of the (a) likely and (b) maximum possible effect on = six months = one letter, of which none were from hon. the average household electricity bill by 2020 of not Members. implementing the Government’s reductions to feed-in- The Department receives a number of letters that do tariffs for (i) small-scale solar PV introduced after the not require a response, such as post card campaigns, or comprehensive review and (ii) large-scale solar PV letters for information only. These letters are therefore introduced after the fast track review. [109929] closed as ‘No Response Necessary’ and have not been included in these figures. Gregory Barker: We estimate that not implementing the changes to tariffs for large scale (greater than 50 kW) solar PV in the fast track review would have added Disclosure of Information approximately £10 (2010 prices, undiscounted) to the average domestic energy bill in 2020. This is based on Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy the estimate of the cost to consumers under the ‘Do and Climate Change how much his Department spent Nothing’ option in the Fast Track Review impact on the updating of published data in line with the assessment: Government’s transparency agenda in each month http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/Consultations/fits-review/ since September 2011. [110710] fast-track-review-announcement-impact-assessment.pdf 185W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 186W

Further changes were made to the tariffs for all sizes There are currently six applications for consent under of solar PV installations in Phases 1 and 2A of the Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 in Wales for Comprehensive Review of Feed-in Tariffs. The Impact generating stations with a capacity greater than 50 MW Assessment accompanying the Government Response with of maximum total capacity of 653 MW. More to Phase 1 of the review estimated that with no changes details can be found at to policy, support for solar PV under FITs would add https://www.og.decc.gov.uk/EIP/pages/applications.htm £61 per annum to typical household electricity bills in There is currently one application for consent under 2020 (2010 prices, undiscounted). The Impact Assessment the Planning Act 2008 for a generating station in Wales accompanying the Government Response to Phase 2A with a capacity greater than 50 MW, which has a of the review estimated that with the policy changes, maximum total capacity of 84 MW.More details can be support for solar PV under FITs would add £9 per found at: annum to typical household electricity bills in 2020 (2010 prices, undiscounted). The net impact of not http://infrastructure.planningportal.gov.uk/projects/Wales/ making these changes would therefore have been £52. Brechfa-Forest-West-Wind-Farm/ At this stage, some of these stations are only at We have not made separate estimates for the impact application stage and therefore it is possible that not all of changes to tariffs for large-scale and small-scale of the proposed stations will be built. Some may not be installations. granted consent and even where consent is granted, These Impact Assessments are available at the following some stations may not be built. Furthermore, some of URLs: these proposed stations may not be built within the next Fast track: five years. The total capacity figures quoted are based on the http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/consultations/fits-review/ fast-track-review-announcement-impact-assessment.pdf maximum output as estimated by the developers placing the application. Phase 1: http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/consultations/fits-review/ Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State 4310-feedintariff-comprehensive-review-phase-1-impact.pdf for Energy and Climate Change what discussions he Phase 2A: has had with the Welsh Government on the building of new electricity generation above 50 megawatts in Wales. http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/ll/meeting-energy- [109668] demand/renewable-energy/5391-impact-assessment- government-response-to-consulta.pdf Charles Hendry: Ministers in the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), including the Secretary Electricity: Wales of State, the right hon. Member for Kingston and Surbiton (Mr Davey), have regular discussions with the Welsh Government on a range of issues, including Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State energy infrastructure consenting. Officials in DECC for Energy and Climate Change what capacity of new also have regular discussions on such matters with electricity generation above 50 megawatts is expected to Welsh Government officials. Given the quasi-judicial be built in Wales in the next five years. [109667] role of DECC Ministers in determining applications for new electricity generating stations above 50 megawatts in Wales, the propriety rules limit the ability of Ministers Charles Hendry: The best indicator for estimating the (and officials) to discuss the details of specific schemes. capacity of new electricity generation over 50 megawatts DECC has published guidance on this1. On all such (MW) that could be built in Wales in the next five years, applications made under the Planning Act 2008 and is provided by the Department of Energy and Climate likely to affect land in Wales, the Welsh Government is a Change’s (DECC) database of existing planning statutory consultee. applications and National Grid’s Transmission Entry 1 http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/meeting-energy-demand/ Capacity (TEC) Register. consents-planning/3908-propriety-guidance-develop- Based on National Grid data, there are two generating consents.pdf stations under construction in Wales with a capacity greater than 50 MW. One is soon to be commissioned Empty Property and the other is still being built. Once fully commissioned, they would have a maximum total capacity of around Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy 2,674 MW. More details can be found at: and Climate Change if he will list the empty or largely http://www.nationalgrid.com/uk/Electricity/Getting Connected/ empty buildings owned by his Department; and if he ContractedGenerationInformation/TransmissionEntry will make a statement. [110841] CapacityRegister/ DECC’s database of existing planning applications Gregory Barker: The Department of Energy and shows that there are currently an additional four proposed Climate Change owns no empty or largely empty buildings. generating stations in Wales with a capacity greater than 50 MW that have been granted consent, but are Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy not yet under construction. If built, they would have a and Climate Change how many buildings owned by his maximum total capacity of 1,818 MW.More details can Department and the bodies for which he is responsible be found at: have been empty for more than two years; and if he will https://www.og.decc.gov.uk/EIP/pages/recent.htm make a statement. [110859] 187W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 188W

Gregory Barker: The only empty buildings held by Number of electricity the Department or the bodies for which it is responsible Quarter transfers Number of gas transfers are 23 empty buildings held by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). The majority of Quarter 4 2009 1,332,000 999,000 the empty buildings are disused offices on the site of a decommissioned power station. Others are derelict farm Quarter 12010 1,071,000 840,000 buildings on land NDA owns near its sites. Nineteen of Quarter 2 2010 1,143,000 867,000 the properties are held by NDA Properties Ltd with a Quarter 3 2010 1,242,000 894,000 view to lease or sale. Quarter 4 2010 1,290,000 957,000

Energy Quarter 1 2011 993,000 798,000 Quarter 2 2011 1,110,000 813,000 Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Quarter 3 2011 1,188,000 954,000 Energy and Climate Change with reference to the written Quarter 4 2011 915,000 705,000 answer of 18 April 2012, Official Report, column 364W, on energy, how many consumers switched energy supplier Energy Supply in each quarter in each of the last 10 years. [109716]

Charles Hendry: DECC publishes statistics on the Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for number of consumers switching supplier in the web Energy and Climate Change whether suppliers which version of its Quarterly Energy Prices publication. This do not intend to use the data communications company can be found here on the DECC website (table 2.7.1): will be required to sign the Smart Energy Code. [109802] http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/energy_stats/ prices/prices.aspx Gregory Barker: The scope of the Smart Energy The data are summarised in the following table. The Code (SEC) is currently subject to a consultation which latest data available are for quarter 4 of 2011. Data are closes on 1 June, available at: not available before 2003. Estimates for the number of http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/consultation/smart- consumers switching in quarter 1 of 2012 will be published metering-imp-prog/4896-smart-energy-code-con-doc.pdf on 28 June 2012. The SEC will primarily cover matters relating to users of the Data and Communication Company’s services; Number of electricity however, it is likely to also contain wider provisions Quarter transfers Number of gas transfers relating to the operation of smart meters in the GB Quarter 1 2003 1,032,000 672,000 market. Quarter 2 2003 1,023,000 714,000 In the light of responses to this consultation, the Quarter 3 2003 1,065,000 810,000 Government will publish further proposals on whether Quarter 4 2003 1,086,000 864,000 to require network operators and suppliers to become parties to the SEC and comply with its provisions, Quarter 1 2004 1,026,000 894,000 including whether to extend these obligations to all Quarter 2 2004 1,008,000 846,000 licence holders. Quarter 3 2004 1,020,000 813,000 Quarter 4 2004 1,146,000 1,038,000 Energy: Billing

Quarter 1 2005 993,000 765,000 Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Quarter 2 2005 1,119,000 963,000 Energy and Climate Change what recent assessment he Quarter 3 2005 1,053,000 855,000 has made of the effect on household energy bills of (a) Quarter 4 2005 1,242,000 930,000 the European Emissions Trading Scheme, (b) feed-in tariffs, (c) the Renewables Obligation, (d) the Warm Quarter 1 2006 1,170,000 864,000 Home Discount, (e) the Carbon Emissions Reduction Quarter 2 2006 1,176,000 1,065,000 Target and (f) other energy and climate change policies. Quarter 3 2006 1,188,000 966,000 [109626] Quarter 4 2006 1,302,000 1,017,000 Gregory Barker: In November 2011, DECC published Quarter 1 2007 1,185,000 942,000 an assessment of the impact of energy and climate Quarter 2 2007 1,269,000 1,014,000 change polices on average household energy bills available Quarter 3 2007 1,338,000 978,000 online at: Quarter 4 2007 1,365,000 1,047,000 http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/meeting_energy/aes/ impacts/impacts.aspx Quarter 1 2008 1,251,000 936,000 alongside the Annual Energy Statement, with a commitment Quarter 2 2008 1,338,000 1,071,000 to publish updated analysis each year alongside future Quarter 3 2008 1,494,000 1,137,000 Annual Energy Statements. Quarter 4 2008 1,344,000 1,014,000 The Government is committed to meeting energy demand at the lowest cost possible by helping people to Quarter 1 2009 1,128,000 897,000 get the best deal on their energy, insulating homes and Quarter 2 2009 1,254,000 954,000 dealing with the root cause of energy price volatility, Quarter 3 2009 1,308,000 975,000 our dependence on fossil fuels. 189W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 190W

DECC estimates that household dual fuel bills in are available. The following table shows average domestic 2011 were, on average, around 2% higher than they bills for gas and electricity in 2011, for each country, by would have been if energy and climate change policies the method of payment used. This is based on assumed weren’t introduced. However, by 2020, these policies fixed annual consumption of 18,000kWh for gas and will mean household dual fuel bills could, on average, 3,300kWh for standard electricity. We are not able to be around 7% lower than they would have been in the separate the data out and provide data for England and same year in the absence of policies. This is because the Wales individually. Data on gas are not available for effects of policies which help households to save energy Northern Ireland. are expected to more than offset the necessary cost of investing in new capacity and greater efficiency. A £ breakdown of these impacts by individual policies is Standard Direct debit Pre-payment presented in Annex F of the aforementioned document. credit meter Recent announcements on the draft Energy Bill and (a) Electricity Feed-in-Tariffs scheme are not expected to change the (standard) overall assessment of the impact of policies in 2020. England & 469 432 475 Updated analysis accounting for all policy announcements Wales since November 2011 will be published alongside the Scotland 489 446 485 next Annual Energy Statement later this year. Northern 523 504 510 Ireland Energy: Housing (b) Gas Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for England & 749 698 744 Energy and Climate Change with reference to page 26 Wales of his Department’s Annual Report and Accounts Scotland 743 687 737 2010-11, what projections he has made of likely Northern n/a n/a n/a performance against Priority 1, Impact Indicator 1, Ireland which measures the total number of energy efficiency installations in households for the period 2012 to 2015. [109123] Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the oral Gregory Barker: Projections of the total number of answer of 16 May 2012, Official Report, column 562, energy efficiency installations (cavity wall insulation on collective switching, what steps he has taken to and loft insulation) for the period 2013 to 2022 were encourage collective switching. [109854] published in the Green Deal Consultation Impact Assessment1 in November 2011. We will publish an updated assessment alongside the Government Response, Charles Hendry: The Department has been working which will reflect any new evidence received and policy to build momentum behind collective purchasing and changes made in light of the consultation. switching in the energy sector for several months. 1 Green Deal Consultation Impact Assessment: The Working Group on Collective Purchasing and www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/consultations/green_deal/ green_deal.aspx Switching set up last year made a number of recommendations to promote collective switching/ Energy: Prices purchasing. As part of the implementation of these recommendations, Ofgem have published guidance on Chris Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy the relevant licence requirements for energy suppliers and Climate Change what assessment his Department and my Department has published guidance to help has made of the effectiveness of collective purchasing consumers and organisations interested in setting up group switching schemes: in the energy market. [109526] http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/funding/collectpurch/ Charles Hendry: Collective purchasing and switching collectpurch.aspx has the potential to help consumers get a fair deal on DECC has also hosted two round tables with their energy bills. Following the Big Switch, a collective stakeholders on collective purchasing and switching to switch organised by Which?, they estimate that 70% of encouraging further sharing of experience and identification consumers who signed up will save an average of £123 per of barriers. year and that 30,000 households could reduce their bills by over £200. Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the oral for Energy and Climate Change if he will estimate the answer of 16 May 2012, Official Report, column 563, average amount paid by residential users for (a) on energy prices, what the evidential basis is for the electricity and (b) gas in (i) Wales, (ii) Scotland, (iii) statement that there are currently 120 tariffs. [109855] England and (iv) Northern Ireland in the last year for which figures are available. [109664] Charles Hendry: DECC’s estimate that there are over Charles Hendry: These data can be found in the latest 120 tariffs available to a typical household looking to edition of DECC’s Quarterly Energy Prices publication, switch was made by looking at all the tariffs offered by a with 2011 being the most recent year for which figures variety of accredited comparison sites. 191W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 192W

EU Emissions Trading Scheme Gregory Barker: In 2010, the latest year for which data are available, the number of households in England Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for in fuel poverty was 3.5 million. Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on the In Coventry local authority, the number of households European Commission’s proposal to review European in fuel poverty was estimated to be 26,700, and in Union Allowances under the EU emissions trading Coventry North East constituency, 9,000. scheme. [109987] Fuel Poverty: Wales Gregory Barker: The EU ETS has been successful in delivering emissions reductions, but the EU ETS is not at present sending the signals necessary to drive investment Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State in low carbon technology and infrastructure needed for for Energy and Climate Change if he will estimate the the low carbon transition. The UK has long argued for number of people who are in fuel poverty in Wales. a move to a higher emissions reduction target of 30%. [109655] Any such move would include tightening the EU ETS cap, in order to deliver a level of ambition in the EU Gregory Barker: Fuel poverty is measured at a household ETS that is consistent with our long-term targets and to rather than individual level. For Wales, the last available strengthen the investment signal provided by the carbon data show that in 2008 approximately 332,000 households price. We have not yet seen any proposal from the were estimated to be in fuel poverty. Projections for Commission but the UK will welcome a proposal which 2009 and 2010 estimate 368,000 and 332,000 fuel poor effectively tightens the EU ETS cap in line with the households respectively. Government’s stated objectives for a more ambitious EU emissions reductions target. Green Deal Scheme Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on the Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for linking of the EU Emissions Trading System to the Energy and Climate Change with reference to the South Korean emissions trading scheme. [109988] annual fuel poverty statistics report, how many homes with two or more of non-gas central heating (or no Gregory Barker: The UK strongly welcomes South central heating), solid walls, uninsulated cavity walls, Korea’s passing of the ETS Bill. and loft insulation less than 150mm, will be fitted with Linking the EU ETS with other trading schemes energy measures under the Green Deal and Energy presents a significant opportunity to promote cost-effective Company Obligation in each of the next three years. emissions reductions and expand global carbon markets. [109488] However, before the two schemes can be linked, we will need confidence that the two schemes are compatible. Gregory Barker: The Green Deal and Energy Company It will only be possible to make this assessment once the Obligation Impact Assessment will be published shortly, details of their trading scheme are finalised. alongside the Government response to the recent The UK will continue working closely with the South consultation. The impact assessment will contain projections Korean Government on this issue. for the delivery of measures such as central heating systems and loft, cavity wall and solid wall insulation Fraud but these will only estimate delivery. In addition we will monitor and report on actual delivery of insulation and Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy heating improvements as the scheme gets under way. and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the level of (a) procurement and (b) other fraud affecting Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for his Department’s spending in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has 2011-12; and if he will make a statement. [110177] made of the potential effect of the Green Deal on the number of customers switching between energy suppliers. Gregory Barker: The information requested is as [109801] follows. (a) Procurement Fraud Gregory Barker: The Green Deal finance scheme has (i) The Department reported one procurement fraud in 2010-11 been designed to minimise the potential effect on customers to the value of £10,000. wishing to change their energy supplier. The existing (ii) Nil. process for switching supplier will remain unchanged. (b) Other Fraud Although a few smaller electricity suppliers (those with (i) Nil. less than 250,000 customers) may opt out of collecting (ii) Nil. and remitting Green Deal payments, we do not expect this to have a significant impact on consumers’ engagement Fuel Poverty with the competitive energy market.

Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent assessment he Energy and Climate Change what research his Department has made of the number of households in fuel poverty has commissioned to support its work on the Green in (a) Coventry, (b) Coventry North East constituency Deal and Energy Company Obligation; what the cost and (c) England in the latest period for which figures was of each research project; and whether the research are available. [109994] is publicly available. [110085] 193W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 194W

Gregory Barker: Across the analytical disciplines in are listed in the following table, along with an assessment DECC, a number of research projects have been of costs and publication status. Note that only research commissioned to inform the Green Deal or Energy started since May 2010 has been included. Company Obligation (ECO). Details of all the projects

Cost (ex Start date Research Research type VAT) (£) Publication status

December 2010 A survey of 2,023 Customer 140,000 Published on the DECC website: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/ owner occupiers/ insight consultations/green_deal/green_deal.aspx private rented tenants in Great Britain to understand response to the Green Deal and key motivators or barriers and concerns or issues from a consumer perspective

February 2011 Qualitative research Customer 81,940 Published on the DECC website: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/ project with home insight consultations/green_deal/green_deal.aspx owners (including vulnerable groups) and SMEs to explore consumer response to the Green Deal, including specific features of assessment, installation, accreditation, finance, advice and triggers

February 2011 Qualitative research Customer 59,800 Published on the DECC website: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/ with domestic and insight consultations/green_deal/green_deal.aspx non-domestic tenants and landlords to identify how best to engage the private rented sector in the Green Deal and drive demand on a voluntary basis

March 2011 Element Energy Economics 69,350 Details included in the draft Green Deal and ECO impact assessment Modelling work—the which was published on the DECC website http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/ provision of research content/cms/consultations/green_deal/green_deal.aspx on appraisal of policy options for domestic carbon efficiency

August 2011 Qualitative research Customer 95,312 To be published on the DECC website in June 2012 with the response to project with insight the Green Deal consultation householders across Great Britain to establish how to communicate the core concepts of the Green Deal so as to minimise any potential confusion, with a particular focus on the Green Deal occupancy assessment1

August 2011 A research project Customer 97,000 To be published on the DECC website in June 2012 with the response to including a survey of insight the Green Deal consultation 2,802 businesses, charities, and voluntary sector organisations in Great Britain and qualitative interviews with businesses and landlords to understand response to the Green Deal and motivations and barriers to energy efficiency

October 2011 Update on hard to fill Science 8,000 To be published on the DECC website in June 2012 with the final Green cavities Deal and ECO impact assessment

October 2011 UCL desk study on Science 9,950 Research complete. A report is in preparation and will be published when solid walls available

November 2011 Measurement of Science 670,000 Research and analysis is ongoing until July 2012. A report will be published dwelling wall U-values when available 195W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 196W

Cost (ex Start date Research Research type VAT) (£) Publication status

November 2011 A survey of 1,946 Customer 17,410 Summary of high level findings and methodology to be published on the owner occupiers/ insight DECC website in June 2012 as an annex to the Green Deal and ECO private rented tenants impact assessment in Great Britain to investigate the supposition that a high rate of subsidy has a proportionally larger impact on consumer uptake of the Green Deal February 2012 A survey of 1,880 Customer 8,500 Summary of high level findings and methodology to be published on the owner occupiers/ insight DECC website in June 2012 as an annex to the Green Deal and ECO private rented tenants impact assessment to understand the sources of funding that consumers have used and might choose to use in the future for funding home improvements March 2012 A survey of 2,050 Customer 181,400 Research in progress. Expected publication date autumn 2012 owner occupiers/ insight private rented tenants primarily to understand the most effective form and level of incentive. A segmentation based on abovesurveydataand Target Group Index (TGI) data to inform policy decisions and the customer engagement strategy for the Green Deal 1 The occupancy assessment is one of the two mandated documents (the other being the Energy Performance certificate (EPC)) that make up the Green Deal Advice Report (GDAR) and will be given to people who have a Green Deal assessment.

Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for to treat cavity wall his Department uses; and how many Energy and Climate Change what the total spend to hard to treat cavity walls his Department estimates date by his Department has been on administering the have not yet been insulated. [110086] introduction of (a) the Green Deal and (b) Energy Company Obligation; and what the budget is for this Gregory Barker: Generally for statistical purposes work in 2012-13. [110142] DECC consider the following types of cavity walls to be hardtotreat: Gregory Barker: Green Deal spend in 2011-12 and 2012-13 (including administration, programme and capital Narrow cavity—Masonry cavities that are less than 50 mm wide. spend) was, respectively, £33.8 million and £65.9 million. Concrete construction—Prefabricated concrete constructions The delivery of ECO is within the overall Green Deal systems with cavities. Programme and therefore draws resource and budget allocation from across the programme. Metal frame construction—Metal frame construction systems with cavities. Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Random stone cavity—Uneven cavities formed in walls constructed Energy and Climate Change who the members are of of natural stone outer leaf and block/brick inner leaf. all current working groups in his Department working Timber frame uninsulated studwork cavity (also has a masonry on the Green Deal. [110148] cavity, which must not be filled). Too high, more than four storeys tall. Gregory Barker: A table detailing the membership of Exposed to severe wind driven rain. current Green Deal working groups will be placed in Wall fault in its outer leaf which would need to be remediated the Libraries of the House. before filling. Besides formal working group membership, in some The Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation cases group members co-ordinate views from among a Impact Assessment and draft Secondary Legislation, wider group of stakeholders. due to be published shortly, will set out the types and In addition, my hon. Friend the Member for Stourbridge numbers of cavity walls remaining to be insulated and (Margot James), chairs a Green Deal Women’s panel which of these would be eligible for support through the which has membership made up of individuals rather Green Deal and ECO programmes. than organisations. Housing: Insulation Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether his Department Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for has made an estimate of the number of empty lofts Energy and Climate Change what definition of a hard which have not yet been insulated. [110087] 197W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 198W

Gregory Barker: The latest publicly available estimate Industry Contact Group On Distributed Energy of lofts without insulation in Great Britain is 779,000 in 2009. A significant proportion of these lofts are expected Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for to have now been filled, primarily under CERT, CESP Energy and Climate Change if he will publish a list of and Warm Front. The Government’s latest view of the the members of the Industry Contact Group on current number of lofts without insulation will be published Distributed Energy, together with the date, agenda and in the Green Deal and ECO Impact Assessment. minutes of all the Group’s meetings to date. [110667]

Gregory Barker: The Industry Contact Group on Hunterston B Power Station Distributed energy has met twice, most recently on 2 February. I will shortly be publishing attendees, agendas and minutes of those meetings that have already taken Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for place, and will do for future meetings, on the DECC Energy and Climate Change on how many occasions website. the Office for Nuclear Regulation inspected the Hunterston B nuclear plant in (a) 2010, (b) 2011 and (c) 2012 to date. [109375] Intergovernmental Panel On Climate Change

Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State Chris Grayling: I have been asked to reply on behalf for Energy and Climate Change if he will make it his of the Department for Work and Pensions. policy that the UK Government delegation to the 35th The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) carries out session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate site inspections in line with its planned inspection Change (IPCC) in July 2012 should propose an programme. The number of planned inspections were: amendment to the proposed revision to Appendix A to 2010—24 planned inspections; the Principles Governing IPCC to include all the lead authors’ responses to review comments in what will be 2011—46 planned inspections; and made available to all reviewers on request during the 2012—nine planned inspections so far. review process. [110599]

Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Gregory Barker: The proposed revision to the IPCC Energy and Climate Change when the Office for Procedures, is to correct an error which occurred at Nuclear Regulation last inspected the Hunterston B 33rd Session of the IPCC, by re-insertion of the text nuclear power plant. [109376] “All written expert, and government review comments will be made available to reviewers on request during the review process”. The details are contained in document IPCC-XXXV/Doc. Chris Grayling: I have been asked to reply on behalf 11, available on the website of the IPCC of the Department for Work and Pensions. http://www.ipcc.ch/ The Office for Nuclear Regulation’s site inspector As all reviewers of the First Order Draft of an IPCC last visited Hunterston B on 21 May 2012 to carry out report have the opportunity to see how their comments safety inspections. have been addressed if they opt to review the Second Order Draft, the UK has no plans to propose an Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for amendment to the above revision to Appendix A to the Energy and Climate Change when the Office for Nuclear Principles Governing IPCC. Regulation next plans to inspect the Hunterston B nuclear power plant. [109377] Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will make it his policy that the UK Government delegation to the 35th Chris Grayling: I have been asked to reply on behalf session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate of the Department for Work and Pensions. Change (IPCC) in July 2012 should propose that the The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) inspectors IPCC withdraw its confidentiality decision from its visit operating nuclear plants monthly. The next scheduled 33rd Session due to its fundamental principle that its inspection at Hunterston B will take place in June 2012. assessment process is to be open and transparent. [110600]

Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Gregory Barker: The IPCC’s decision at its 33rd Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has Session balanced its aims for an open and transparent made of the safety provisions at the Hunterston B scientific assessment process with the risk of undermining nuclear power plant. [109378] the process through premature public release of draft reports. I am content with that decision and we have no Chris Grayling: I have been asked to reply on behalf plans to propose that the IPCC should withdraw it. of the Department for Work and Pensions. The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) assessment Manpower is that Hunterston B is achieving a satisfactory level of compliance with regulatory requirements, although there Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy are some areas for improvement. These are being followed and Climate Change what target he has set to reduce up as part of normal regulatory business. headcount across his Department and non-departmental 199W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 200W public bodies in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and (c) Natural Gas: Wales 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. [110238] Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Gregory Barker: The planned headcount for DECC Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the oral and its arm’s length bodies answer of 17 May 2012, Official Report, column 690, (a) increased by 9% in 2010-11 compared to the previous year; what discussions he has had with Ministers in the Welsh Government on hydraulic fracturing in Wales; (b) reduced by 5% in 2011-12 compared to the previous year; and and whether Ministers in the Welsh Government have requested that they be given responsibility for taking (c) reduced by 6% in 2012/13 compared to the previous year. the final decision on whether to grant permission for The increase in 2010-11 reflected the fact that DECC hydraulic fracturing to take place in Wales. [109119] was a new Department that was still establishing its corporate functions and developing new programmes. Charles Hendry: DECC Ministers have discussions The majority of the reduction in the subsequent two from time to time with Ministers in the Welsh Government years is because DECC reduced and then ended its on a range of issues, and there is similarly regular arm’s length relationship with the Carbon Trust and liaison between Welsh Government officials and the Energy Savings Trust. DECC continues to work with Department. Representatives from the Welsh Government these bodies on a contractual basis but it no longer and other devolved bodies are included in the regular finances and funds them. As a result they are no longer shale gas liaison teleconferences which my officials hold considered by the Treasury to be part of DECC for with other key regulators. This includes the Health and budgetary control purposes. By the end of the current Safety Executive, the respective devolved Administrations spending review period in 2014-15, staff numbers are and their counterpart environmental delivery bodies, planned to fall by 23% for DECC and its arm’s length such as the Environment Agency, as some environmental bodies compared to the baseline year of 2009-10. regulations are devolved matters. There are planned increases in staff numbers of 2% As with all other proposals for oil and gas developments, in 2011-12 and 4% in 2012-13 as DECC makes the proposals for shale gas exploration or extraction are transition from a policy based Department to a delivery subject to the requirements of the Town and Country based Department. Numbers for DECC and its arm’s Planning Act administered by the planning authority length bodies (excluding the Carbon Trust and Energy for the area in which the development is located. Planning Savings Trust) are then planned to fall by 7% in 2013-14 is a devolved function in Wales and therefore it would compared to the prior year and by 8% in 2014-15 be for the relevant planning authority to consider any compared to the previous year. application in the first instance. However Welsh Ministers The preceding figures exclude the Civil Nuclear Police have the power to call in an application if they consider Authority which is a self financing body where force it necessary. numbers are planned to grow in response to increased The consent of the Department is also required for activity commissioned by nuclear operating companies. all drilling or production operations for oil and gas. This is given only once planning permission has been Mutual Societies obtained. Nuclear Power Stations: EU Law Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for number of full-time equivalent staff who will transfer Energy and Climate Change what discussions he has from his Department and its non-departmental public had with the European Commission on the extent to bodies’ workforce to a mutual in (a) 2011-12 and (b) which revenue support for new nuclear under his 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. [110198] proposals for electricity market reform is consistent with EU law on subsidies for new nuclear power Gregory Barker: Neither the Department of Energy stations. [110542] and Climate Change nor any of the non-departmental bodies for which it is responsible transferred any staff Charles Hendry: We are considering how the electricity to a mutual in (a) 2011-12 nor plan to transfer any in market reforms interact with State Aid, and are engaging (b) 2012-13. closely with the European Commission to ensure the policy is consistent with the appropriate rules. Natural Gas Offshore Industry: Safety

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the oral and Climate Change what assessment he has made of answer of 17 May 2012, Official Report, column 681, the effect on safety in the offshore energy sector of the on shale gas, if he will place a transcript of the seminar practical difficulties for trade unions of gaining access on shale gas in the Library. [109722] to workplaces on offshore installations; and if he will bring forward proposals to address such difficulties. Charles Hendry: It is not Government policy to release [108818] details of ministerial meetings with external parties as to do so could hinder open discussion between those Chris Grayling: I have been asked to reply on behalf parties’ and Government. of the Department for Work and Pensions. 201W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 202W

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have recently Gregory Barker: Neither the Department of Energy made an assessment of the effectiveness of the Offshore and Climate Change (DECC) nor any of the non- Installations (Safety Representatives and Safety departmental public bodies, for which it is responsible, Committees) Regulations 1989 and concluded that general hold this information centrally. Commissioning and compliance with these requirements, which help to ensure collating this information would incur disproportionate workforce involvement offshore, was good. Any practical costs. difficulties that trade unions face in gaining access to workplaces on offshore installations was not raised as Publications an issue affecting offshore health and safety standards or specifically as negatively impacting on the effectiveness Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for of existing offshore safety representatives and safety Energy and Climate Change how many (a) circulars committee requirements. Therefore, HSE is not proposing and (b) consultation documents were issued by his to bring forward any proposals to address this issue. Department in each of the last two years. [110514]

Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Gregory Barker: Updates are sent directly to stakeholders and Climate Change what guidance he provides to by our communications directorate, by policy teams, employers in the offshore energy sector on the election and automatically to those signed up to receive website of safety representatives; and what his policy is on alerts. No central record is kept of these. offshore safety representatives appointed by trade The Department has issued the following number of unions. [108819] consultations in each of the last two years: Chris Grayling: I have been asked to reply on behalf 31 consultations between May 2010 and April 2011; of the Department for Work and Pensions. 36 consultations between May 2011 and May 2012. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides Radioactive Materials employers and safety representatives with a guide to the Offshore Installations (Safety Representatives and Safety David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Committees) Regulations 1989, which is available free Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has on HSE’s website. This outlines the election process for made of the licensing process of the National Nuclear the appointment of safety representatives on offshore Laboratory to refine, sell and export non-prolific installations. These regulations and the supporting guidance nuclear material. [109824] provide for the appointment of safety representatives through a process of election by secret ballot. Mr Prisk: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the To be eligible a person must be willing to stand and Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS). must be nominated and seconded by their offshore installation colleagues. HSE recognises that both non- I understand your question relates to the substance unionised safety representatives and those from trade Americium-241, the export of which requires an export unions can make an effective contribution to offshore licence issued by the Export Control Organisation (ECO) worker involvement in health and safety, which is an within BIS. All such export licence applications are important element of effective health and safety assessed on a case-by-case basis by the ECO against the management. Consolidated EU and National Arms Export Licensing Criteria. A licence will not be issued if to do so would Operating Costs contravene the criteria. The ECO has not received any export licence applications from the National Nuclear Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Laboratory for this substance therefore no such assessment Energy and Climate Change how much was spent on has been made. the administration of his Department in (a) 2009-10, Radioactive Waste (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011-12. [109839]

Gregory Barker: Administration costs are reported in Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy the Department’s published annual accounts. Expenditure and Climate Change with reference to the answer of 30 was £100.1 million in 2009-10 and £96.9 million in April 2012, Official Report, column 1222W, on heating: 2010-11. These costs relate only to the core Department. radioactive materials, what radionuclides are expected From the start of the current spending review in 2011-12, to be present in the returned radioactive waste; what arm’s length bodies were brought into the administration quantities of such radionuclides are expected to be costs regime so costs will not be directly comparable to present; what metals are expected to be present; what earlier years. Administration costs for 2011-12 are still quantities of such metals are expected to be present; draft and subject to audit. They will be published in what International Maritime Dangerous Goods code July 2012 in the DECC Annual Report and Accounts will apply to such material; through which ports such 2011-12 (HC63). material is expected to enter the UK; by which land transport methods and routes such material will be Pay transported to its end destination; and what the end destination will be for storage or disposal of such Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy material in the UK. [110498] and Climate Change how many staff working for his Department and its non-departmental public bodies Charles Hendry: The heat exchangers from the Berkeley are employed through off-payroll engagements costing Magnox nuclear power plant were shipped to Sweden less than £58,200 per annum; and if he will make a to maximise the reuse and recycling of redundant materials statement. [110830] as a key part of NDA’s Low Level Waste Strategy, 203W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 204W under supervision of the relevant regulators. The NDA 1 Note that the data are revised each week, so the figures above anticipate that the returned radioactive waste will contain may not match those for the most recent statistics as published on the same radionuclides that were present in the waste DECC’s website. consigned for treatment, predominantly; Carbon-14, Cobalt-60, H-3 (Tritium). The quantities of radionuclides Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for are expected to be comparable to those consigned i.e. ~ Energy and Climate Change what steps his 350 GBq. The boilers are constructed from steel. Secondary Department have taken to develop a framework for waste will also contain steel shot from the decontamination giving developers comfort in advance of decisions process. concerning feed-in tariffs with contracts for difference. The original weight of each boiler was ~ 300 tonnes. [109806] The NDA anticipate that less than 10% i.e. 30 tonnes will be returned per boiler, including secondary waste Charles Hendry: The Government has made clear materials. that it is prepared to enter into discussions with relevant The 2010 IMDG code would apply. In the past developers with a view to considering what form of returned secondary waste has been consigned as UN2912 comfort might be given to support early investment LSA I. The classification of this material will be confirmed decisions for low carbon plants to progress to timetable once all the secondary waste has been processed and wherever possible. packaged. ‘Planning our electric future: Technical Update’, The material will return to the UK through a commercial published by DECC in December 2011, set out the port. The NDA expect this port to be in the North of characteristics which DECC will expect to be exhibited England for materials destined for the Low Level Waste by a project before the Department is able to take a Repository. decision as to whether to enter into discussions with a The material will be packaged in IP2 approved ISO developer and the broad process that the Government containers and transported via rail or road transport as will adopt to govern and progress any such discussions. an ADR Class 7 transport. To address any potential investment hiatus prior to the The NDA advise the end destination to be the national establishment of the enduring regime under the electricity Low Level Waste Repository (LLWR), or management market reform programme, the draft Energy Bill, published by LLWR along any suitable waste route in accordance on 22 May 2012, contains provisions to enable the with UK National LLW strategy. Some material could Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, the be returned to the Berkeley Site if it is not suitable for right hon. Member for Kingston and Surbiton (Mr Davey), the LLWR. to give the appropriate degree of comfort to relevant developers or generators under certain conditions. Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether any letters of Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the oral comfort have been (a) sought or (b) giventoany answer of 17 May 2012, Official Report, column 671, developer in advance of decisions concerning feed-in on feed-in tariffs, what the evidential basis is for the tariffs with contracts for difference. [109807] statement that the installation rate is 1.7 times what it was in the same period in 2011. [109723] Charles Hendry: The Government has made clear that it is prepared to enter into discussions with relevant Gregory Barker: The statement that the installation developers with a view to considering what form of rate since the 21p tariff came in was 1.7 times what it comfort might be given to support early investment was in the same period last year was based on the decisions for low carbon plants to progress to timetable weekly solar PV deployment statistics published on the wherever possible. Department of Energy and Climate Change’s website, No letters of comfort have been issued by DECC, available at: following this commitment. http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/energy_stats/ source/fits/fits.aspx NNB Generation Company Ltd, a joint venture company owned by EDF and Centrica, has formally expressed its These statistics report the number and capacity of solar wish to enter into discussions in relation to developing PV installations up to 50 kW in size recorded on the new nuclear at Hinkley Point C. DECC has confirmed Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) database its willingness to do so, on the basis that the project by commissioning date. fulfils the characteristics set out in ‘Planning our Electricity At 17 May 20121, the data showed: Future: Technical Update’, published by the Department a total of 26,256 solar PV installations were commissioned and in December 2011. registered on the MCS database in the 10 weeks ending 13 May We expect other developers of low carbon power 2012 (that is, the 10 weeks after the tariffs were reduced for new solar PV installations up to 250 kW in size on 3 March) generation projects to come forward formally over the coming months. a total of 15,340 solar PV installations were commissioned and registered on the MCS database in the equivalent 10-week period last year (ending 15 May 2011). Steve Brine: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy The figures for the 10 weeks ending 13 May 2012 are and Climate Change if he will review the proposed 1.71 times the figures for the 10 weeks ending 15 May change to the feed-in-tariff rate due to take effect on 2012. 1 July 2012. [109930] 205W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 206W

Gregory Barker: On 24 May the Government response Gregory Barker: RenewableUK has not provided any to the consultation on solar photovoltaic (PV) tariffs consultancy or advisory services to the Department of and cost control was published, confirming an effective Energy and Climate Change. date of 1 August 2012 for new tariffs to apply instead of 1 July, as had been proposed in the consultation. Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State Renewables Obligation for Energy and Climate Change what meetings his Department has had with (a) directors and (b) other employees of RenewablesUK in (i) the House of David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for Commons and (ii) his Department’s buildings. [109896] Energy and Climate Change what recent assessment he has made of the effect on the advanced conversion Gregory Barker: All meetings between external technology industry of the renewables obligation banding organisations and DECC Ministers are published on a review; and if he will make a statement. [109643] quarterly basis on the DECC website and are available for download at this link: Gregory Barker: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave him on 19 April, Official Report, column 489W. I http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/accesstoinform/ can confirm that it remains the Government’s policy to registers/registers.aspx encourage deployment of advanced conversion technologies DECC officials have regular meetings with a wide through the renewables obligation given the potential of range of external stakeholders from the renewable energy these technologies for wider and innovative uses. We sector, including RenewableUK. aim to publish the Government response to the renewables obligation banding review consultation shortly. This Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State will set out our decision on the levels of support that for Energy and Climate Change what hospitality (a) technologies, including advanced conversion technologies, he, (b) his predecessor and (c) staff in his Department will be eligible to receive from April 2013. have received from RenewablesUK since May 2010. RenewableUK [109897] Gregory Barker: A gifts and hospitality register for Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State DECC Ministers is published on the DECC website for Energy and Climate Change whether any of the and is available for download at this link: staff working in his Department have previously been http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/accesstoinform/ seconded to RenewableUK. [109893] registers/gifts_minister/gifts_minister.aspx Gregory Barker: There are no staff, working for the This covers the period from October 2009 to September Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), 2011 and is updated quarterly. The register for October who have previously been seconded by the Department to December 2011 will be uploaded shortly. to RenewableUK. DECC does not hold details of the Since May 2010 DECC officials have received hospitality previous employment of its staff on a central database. from RenewableUK totalling £537.00 through attendance at conferences, seminars and meetings. Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether any of Warm Front Scheme RenewableUK’s (a) directors and (b) other employees have been seconded to his Department. [109894] Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Gregory Barker: There are no (a) directors nor (b) Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the oral other employees working for RenewableUK who have answer of 17 May 2012, Official Report, column 674, been seconded to the Department of Energy and Climate on Warm Front, how many complaints about Warm Change. Front were made in each of the last 10 years. [109719]

Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State Gregory Barker: Information on complaints about for Energy and Climate Change whether RenewableUK Warm Front is only held for the period from 2005. has provided consultancy or advisory services to his Complaints are recorded by the year in which they are Department; and if so, how much it was paid for these made. Some complaints registered each year will relate services. [109895] to matters arising in previous years.

Number 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

Warm Front complaints received 1,029 3,998 5,892 8,019 5,922 5,847 6,548 Complaints upheld on closure 330 1,385 1,386 1,622 1,541 1,509 2,326

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for a Warm Front grant from each parliamentary constituency Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the written were (a) accepted and (b) rejected in 2011-12. [109853] answer of 19 April 2012, Official Report, column 491W, on the Warm Front scheme, how many applications for Gregory Barker: A table containing the number of Warm Front applications from each parliamentary 207W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 208W constituency that were (a) accepted and (b) rejected in Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for 2011-12 will be placed in the Libraries of the House. Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on onshore wind farms. [110588] Wind Power Charles Hendry: The Government is committed to a Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State balanced energy portfolio, including an appropriate for Energy and Climate Change (1) what process his level of onshore wind deployment in our energy mix, to Department used to commission BiGGAR Economics maintain our energy security and to help decarbonise to prepare a report on the investment and jobs our electricity supply. As a mature and cost-effective provided by the onshore wind industry; [109786] technology, onshore wind energy reduces UK reliance (2) on what date BiGGAR Economics were on imported fossil fuels and supports investment and commissioned to prepare a report on the investment jobs across the country. and jobs provided by the onshore wind industry; Our policies are set out in the Renewable Energy [109787] Roadmap1 published last summer, which includes a (3) how much his Department paid to BiGGAR projected central scenario of up to 13GW total installed Economics for its recent report on the investment and capacity of onshore wind by 2020. We consider this jobs provided by the onshore wind industry. [109788] ambition is manageable. 5GW is already up and running, nearly 6GW has received planning consent and there is Charles Hendry: The report by BiGGAR Economics a further 7GW in the planning system. Not everything on ’Onshore Wind—Direct and Wider Economic Impacts’ consented will be built, and not everything in the planning published in May 2012 was commissioned by RenewableUK system deserves to be consented, so there will be new through a competitive tendering process run jointly by project proposals to come, but the investment the country DECC officials and RenewableUK. 8 organisations needs in this technology is already largely on the table. with expertise in carrying out economic analysis of the We are determined to deliver our objectives in ways energy sector were invited to tender. 3 bids were received that offer maximum value for money for consumer and evaluated jointly by RenewableUK and DECC spend, put the least possible pressures on energy bills, officials. The BiGGAR tender was accepted as it scored and give communities a real say and stake in shaping most highly against the evaluation criteria set by the development of their local areas. RenewableUK and DECC. We are proposing a 10% reduction in the level of The contract between RenewableUK and BiGGAR support for onshore wind as part of the current renewables Economics was signed on 27 January 2012. obligation banding review to reflect ongoing falling The project was funded jointly by DECC and costs of generation to 2020. This also helps ensure that RenewableUK. DECC contributed grant funding of only the most efficient onshore wind projects are brought £15,000 to RenewableUK for the costs of procuring the forward. We will complete the review and issue a research. Government response confirming support levels before the summer recess. Legislation setting the new bands in Nigel Adams: To ask the Secretary of State for law will come into effect on 1 April 2013. Energy and Climate Change whether his Department We are taking action to address peoples’ concerns produces its own statistics on numbers of turbines over the impact on communities of the siting of wind which are operational and in the planning process; and turbine development in the British countryside. In England, whether such statistics depend on information provided the Government’s new National Planning Policy by the trade bodies in the wind industry. [109962] Framework is clear about the importance of protecting the natural environment, while supporting the delivery Charles Hendry: Detailed site level information for of appropriately-sited renewable and low carbon energy. operational sites, including installed capacity, is available Through the Localism Act we have put more power on DECC’s RESTATS database at: than ever before in the hands of communities to shape https://restats.decc.gov.uk/app/reporting/decc/monthlyextract their neighbourhoods. This information is collected and processed by AEA We want local decisions to be plan-led, and driven by on behalf of the Department and is sourced from local councils, who will be able to identify suitable areas planning permission process data rather than trade bodies. for renewable development. 1The UK’s Renewable Energy Roadmap was published by DECC Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State in July 2011 and can be viewed at: for Energy and Climate Change with reference to the http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/meeting-energy- press release of 7 May on new research on the economic demand/renewable-energy/2167-uk-renewable-energy- benefit of onshore wind, for what reason the press roadmap.pdf release is not available on his Department’s website. [110497]

Gregory Barker: The report referred to was commissioned CABINET OFFICE by Renewable UK and DECC. The press release was issued by Renewable UK at the time and as a result, Average Earnings both the press release and report were published on that organisation’s website. However, as DECC jointly funded Michael Fallon: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet the research, it seems appropriate that a link is added to Office what the average earnings were of (a) full-time it from our website, and we will undertake to do that at male, (b) full-time female, (c) part-time male and (d) the earliest opportunity. part-time female workers in (i) Sevenoaks constituency, 209W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 210W

(ii) Kent local authority area and (iii) the South East in Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the each of the last two years. [109875] 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 24 May 2012: responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 24 May 2012: asking what the average earnings were of (a) full-time male, (b) As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I full-time female, (c) part-time male and (d) part-time female have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question workers in (i) Mid Sussex constituency, (ii) West Sussex local asking what the average earnings were of (a) full-time male, (b) authority area and (iii) the South East region in each of the last full-time female, (c) part-time male and (d) part-time female two years. (110246) workers in (i) Sevenoaks constituency, (ii) Kent local authority Average levels of earnings are estimated from the Annual area and (iii) the South East region in each of the last two years. Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), and are provided for all (109875) employees on adult rates of pay whose pay for the survey period Average levels of earnings are estimated from the Annual was not affected by absence. The ASHE, carried out in April each Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), and are provided for all year, is the most comprehensive source of earnings information in employees on adult rates of pay whose pay for the survey period the United Kingdom. was not affected by absence. The ASHE, carried out in April each I attach a table showing the median gross weekly earnings for year, is the most comprehensive source of earnings information in (a) full-time male, (b) full-time female, (c) part-time male and (d) the United Kingdom. part-time female workers in (i) Mid Sussex constituency, (ii) West I attach a table showing the median gross weekly earnings for Sussex local authority area and (iii) the South East region in April (a) full-time male, (b) full-time female, (c) part-time male and (d) for 2010 and 2011, the latest periods for which figures are available. part-time female workers in (i) Sevenoaks constituency, (ii) Kent Median gross weekly earnings for full-time male, full-time female, part-time local authority area and (iii) the South East region in April for male & part time female employee jobs1 (i) Mid Sussex parliamentary 2010 and 2011, the latest period for which figures are available. constituency, (ii) West Sussex local authority area and (iii) the South East region, for 2010 and 2011. Median gross weekly earnings for full-time male, full-time female, part-time male and part-time female employee jobs1: (i) Sevenoaks parliamentary Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time constituency, (ii) Kent local authority area and (iii) the south-east region, 2010 male male female female and 2011 Mid Sussex £ parliamentary Male Female constituency Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time 2010 **511.3 x **458.2 **145.9 20112**561.1 x **453.3 **187.5 Sevenoaks 20113*574.9 x **442.6 **184.9 2010 *570.4 x **363.7 **151.9 20112 *582.0 x **386.4 x 3 West Sussex local 2011 *581.7 x **362.0 **153.6 authority area4 2010 528.5 **140.1 416.0 146.2 Kent4 20112 525.0 **148.1 430.1 *150.0 2010 536.6 *153.5 404.4 148.8 20113 535.4 **146.2 425.9 *148.3 20112 545.5 *144.4 415.3 149.4 20113 546.5 *144.4 414.7 147.2 South East region 2010 574.9 139.2 444.9 159.6 South- 20112 578.5 141.5 454.0 160.2 east 20113 584.1 141.5 451.5 158.7 2010 574.9 139.2 444.9 159.6 1 Employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay-period was not 20112 578.5 141.5 454.0 160.2 affected by absence. 20113 584.1 141.5 451.5 158.7 2 2011 results based on Standard Occupational Classification 2000. 3 2011 results based on Standard Occupational Classification 2010. 1 Employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay-period was not affected 4 West Sussex local authority area comprises seven local authorities. by absence. Guide to quality: 2 2011 results based on Standard Occupational Classification 2000. The Coefficient of Variation (CV) indicates the quality of a figure, the smaller 3 2011 results based on Standard Occupational Classification 2010. the CV value the higher the quality. 4 Kent local authority area comprises 12 local authorities. The true value is likely to lie within +/- twice the CV—for example, for an Guide to Quality: average of 200 with a CV of 5%, we would expect the population average to be The Coefficient of Variation (CV) indicates the quality of a figure, the smaller within the range 180 to 220. the CV value the higher the quality. The true value is likely to lie within +/- twice Key the CV—for example, for an average of 200 with a CV of 5%, we would expect CV <= 5% the population average to be within the range 180-220. * CV>5% and<=10% Key: ** CV> 10% and <-20% CV <= 5% x unreliable * CV >5% and <= 10% Source: ** CV >10% and <= 20% Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), Office for National Statistics. x = unreliable Source: Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), Office for National Statistics. Big Lottery Fund Nicholas Soames: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the average earnings were of (a) full-time male, (b) full-time female, (c) part-time male and (d) Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet part-time female workers in (i) Mid Sussex Office pursuant to the answer of 23 May 2012, Official constituency, (ii) West Sussex local authority area and Report, column 763W, on Big Lottery Fund, if he will (iii) the South East region in each of the last two years. publish the minutes of the meetings referred to in the [110246] answer. [110776] 211W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 212W

Mr Hurd: It is not the normal practice of Government The table below provides figures for the three most common to publish such minutes. cancers for males in England, in 2009. These account for more than half of newly diagnosed cases of cancer. This table is published annually as part of the Cancer Statistics Registrations, Big Society and Localism Ministerial Group England (Series MB1). The latest published figures on incidence of cancer in England Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet are available on the National Statistics website: Office with reference to his answer of 11 January 2012, http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/vsob1/cancer-statistics- Official Report, column 320W, on what dates the registrations--england--series-mb1-/no--40--2009/index.html informal ministerial group on big society and localism Detailed tables of cancer incidence by site (anatomical location has met since 11 January 2012; and if he will make a of the tumour) and by sex and age group are presented in this statement. [109098] publication. The data for 2010 is due to be published on 13th June 2012. Mr Maude: The big society agenda has moved beyond Table 1: The three most common cancers for males in England, 20091 its initial stages of development and co-ordination is Number of % of total now run through standard channels such as the Cabinet ICD-10 Site description registrations malignancies Committee structure. 1 C61 Prostate 34,593 25.7 2 C34 Lung 18,492 13.7 Big Society Capital 3 C18-20 Colorectal 18,227 13.5 Total 71,312 53.0 Jon Trickett: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what strategic or transitional risk registers All 134,636 100.0 relating to Big Society Capital are held by his malignancies2 Department; if he will publish any such registers; and if 1 Figures are for cases diagnosed in 2010 and exclude non-residents. he will make a statement. [110738] 2 Excluding non-melanoma skin cancer (ICD-10 C44). Source: Office for National Statistics Mr Hurd: Big Society Capital (BSC) operates independently of Government and is therefore responsible Charities Act 2006 Review for managing its own risk profile; this includes maintaining any risk registers. Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how much the review of the Charities Act 2006 Billing led by Lord Hodgson has cost to date; how much it is expected to cost; what remuneration he is expected to Michael Dugher: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet receive; and if he will make a statement. [109000] Office what proportion of payments made by his Department to small and medium-sized enterprises Mr Hurd: The Review of the Charities Act 2006 have been paid late since May 2010. [107792] commenced on 8 November 2011 with the appointment of Lord Hodgson as the reviewer, in line with the Mr Maude: Information held by the Cabinet Office requirements of s73 of the Act. on its payment performance does not distinguish between Lord Hodgson is undertaking the review on a voluntary the size of supplier. To obtain the information requested basis and receives no remuneration. would incur disproportionate costs. The total cost of the review is expected to be around The Department’s prompt payment performance is £40,000, and has cost £28,328 to date. published in the Annual Report and Accounts available on: Civil Service Learning http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/resource-library/cabinet- office-annual-reports-and-accounts Jon Trickett: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many contracts have been awarded to small Cancer: Males and medium-sized businesses under the Civil Service Learning contract since its inception. [110740] Oliver Colvile: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office which are the most common cancers in men in Mr Maude: At 25 May 2012, the total number of contracts awarded by Capita to deliver CSL services England. [110297] was 69. 55 (80%) of these were awarded to small and Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the medium-sized enterprises for ongoing delivery. responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Companies: Newton Abbot Letter from Stephen Penneck: Anne Marie Morris: To ask the Minister for the As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have Cabinet Office how many (a) manufacturing and (b) been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking which are the most common cancers in men in England. [110297] construction firms are located in Newton Abbot constituency. [108150] The latest available figures for the most common cancers in England are for the year 2009. Please note that these numbers may not be the same as the number of people diagnosed with Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the cancer, because one person may be diagnosed with more than one responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have cancer. asked the Authority to reply. 213W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 214W

Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 18 May 2012: In June 2010 the Group employed 598 full-time As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I equivalent (FTE) staff. By the end of March 2012, this have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question had reduced to 437 (FTE). asking how many (a) manufacturing and (b) construction firms Staff are based in London and also in Norwich. At are located in the Newton Abbot constituency. [108150] present 16% of staff are on loan from other Government Annual statistics on the number of enterprises are available Departments reflecting the need to ensure that we have from the ONS release: UK Business: Activity, Size and Location the right expertise to deliver our priorities. at www.statistics.gov.uk. As part of this Government’s transparency programme, an organogram for my Department has been published These estimates relate to the count of live businesses in March of each year. online since October 2010. In addition charts of senior and junior staff salaries are published so that—unlike The following table provides the latest statistics on the number of manufacturing and construction enterprises in the parliamentary in the past—this information is freely available for all. constituency of Newton Abbot. Rachel Reeves: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Count of VAT or PAYE based manufacturing and construction enterprises in Newton Abbot as at March 2011 Office what meetings members of the Reward, Efficiency and Reform Group have attended in each Industry Count region; and what expenses were claimed in relation to Manufacturing 175 each meeting. [109428] Construction 460 Note: Mr Maude [holding answer 24 May 2012]: There is The above figures have been rounded to avoid disclosure no Reward, Efficiency and Reform Group within my Department. Consultants However, to address the record deficit which this Government inherited in May 2010 my Department formed an Efficiency and Reform Group. Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how much his Department spent on external Since May 2010 the group has helped Departments consultants, including management consultants, in (a) make billions of pounds of cash savings which have 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; and if he will make a been corroborated by auditors including the NAO. While statement. [107489] the group saved the taxpayer £375 billion in 2010-11, the savings for 2011-12 are anticipated to be even higher Mr Maude: Since May 2010, my Department’s annual and around £5 billion. spend on consultancy has fallen dramatically. The cost Efficiency and Reform Group staff are based in in 2010-11 to the taxpayer was around a third of what it London and also in Norwich. was in 2009-10. Expenses incurred by senior officials are published Overall spend on consultants (including, but not online. specifically identifying management consultants) is published in the ‘Cabinet Office Resource Accounts’ Employment available on the Department’s website: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk Michael Fallon: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Accounts for 2011-12 will be published in due course. Office how many and what proportion of employees in (a) Sevenoaks constituency and (b) the South East Efficiency and Reform Group were employed in the public sector in each of the last five years. [109866]

Rachel Reeves: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Office how many staff were assigned to the Efficiency responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have and Reform Group in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; asked the authority to reply. how many staff are currently assigned to the Group; Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated May 2012: what salaries they receive; how many and from which departments such staff are seconded; and where such As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking staff are located. [109427] how many and what proportion of employees in (a) Sevenoaks constituency and (b) the South East were employed in the public Mr Maude [holding answer 24 May 2012]: To address sector in each of the last five years. (109866) the record deficit which this Government inherited in Public sector employment statistics for local areas can be May 2010 my Department formed an Efficiency and calculated from the Annual Population Survey (APS). Individuals Reform Group. in the APS are classified to the public or private sector according to their responses to the survey.Estimates of public sector employment Since May 2010 the Group has helped Departments are not available for the Sevenoaks constituency. make billions of pounds of cash savings which have Table 1 shows the number and the percentage of employees been corroborated by auditors including the NAO. This who were employed in the public sector in the South East. has never been done before. While the Group saved the Estimates have been provided for October 2010 to September taxpayer £3.75 billion in 2010-11, the savings for 2011-12 2011, the latest period for which data is available, and October to are anticipated to be even higher and around £5 billion. September of the previous four years. During this period the core cost of running the Group As with any sample survey, estimates from the APS are subject fell by 38%, demonstrating that this Group is leading by to a margin of uncertainty. A guide to the quality of the estimates example. is given in Table 1. 215W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 216W

National and local area estimates for many labour market Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have count are available on the NOMIS website at asked the authority to reply. http://www.nomisweb.co.uk Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated May 2012: Table 1: The number and percentage of employees who were employed As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I in the public sector in the South East have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question 12 months ending Thousand Percentage concerning how many people were employed by (a) small and (b) medium-sized businesses in (i) Mid Sussex constituency and (ii) September 2007 874 25 West Sussex local authority area in each of the last two years. September 2008 909 26 110244 September 2009 923 26 Annual statistics on the number of employees are available September 2010 921 26 from the Business Register Employment Survey (BRES) at: September 20111 *924 26 www.ons.gov.uk 1 Coefficients of Variation have been calculated for the latest period as Figures by small and medium-sized businesses are not available. an indication of the quality of the estimates, as described below: Guide to Quality: The table contains the latest statistics available, which show the The Coefficient of Variation (CV) indicates the quality of an estimate, number of employees in Mid Sussex constituency and West the smaller the CV value the higher the quality. The true value is likely Sussex local authority area in 2009 and 2010. to lie within +/- twice the CV—for example, for an estimate of 200 with a CV of 5% we would expect the population total to be within 2009 2010 the range 180-220. Key: Mid Sussex 43,145 42,168 *0≤ CV<5%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered precise parliamentary ** 5 ≤ CV <10%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered constituency reasonably precise West Sussex local 327,339 340,799 ≤ *** 10 CV <20%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered authority area acceptable **** CV ≥ 20%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered too unreliable for practical purposes Every Business Commits CV = Coefficient of Variation Source: Annual population survey Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office with reference to the Answer of 24 January 2012, Michael Fallon: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Official Report, column 231W, on the third sector, what Office how many people were employed by (a) small performance indicators his Department uses to assess and (b) medium-sized businesses in (i) Sevenoaks the effectiveness of the Every Business Commits constituency and (ii) Kent local authority area in each scheme; and if he will make a statement. [109088] of the last two years. [109867] Norman Lamb: I have been asked to reply on behalf Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have Every Business Commits brings together a wide range asked the authority to reply. of activity across Government to enable UK business to Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated May 2012: get involved in responsible business practices, either through their normal business operations or their corporate As Director General for the Office, for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question responsibility programmes. The overarching objective is concerning- how many people were employed by (a) small and (b) to increase the capacity and capability of business to get medium-sized businesses in (i) Sevenoaks constituency and (ii) involved in these initiatives, this will vary both between Kent local authority area in each of the last two years. 109867 initiatives and businesses. An example of these initiatives Annual statistics on the number of employees are available is Trading for Good—a new digital platform developed from the ONS release Business Register Employment Survey by business for business that will help small and medium- (BRES) at: sized enterprises (SME’s) to showcase what they are www.ons.gov.uk doing around the five main challenge areas of Every Business Commits. Trading for Good is able to track Figures by small and medium-sized businesses are not available. The table contains the latest statistics available, which show the what SME’s are doing to grow the message of responsible number of employees in Sevenoaks constituency and Kent local business practice. Trading for Good launches in July authority county area in 2009 and 2010. 2012.

2009 2010 Food Waste Sevenoaks 33,900 33,400 Kent 540,800 547,800 Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office pursuant to the answer of 14 May 2012, Official The employee estimates shown above are taken from BRES. Report, column 23W, on food waste, if he will meet The 2010 estimates are liable to revision. with relevant experts to discuss how to implement a food waste hierarchy in managing nine tonnes of food Nicholas Soames: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet waste generated by his Department and the Prime Office how many people were employed by (a) small Minister’s Office. [109968] and (b) medium-sized businesses in (i) Mid Sussex constituency and (ii) West Sussex local authority area Mr Maude: The lead official in my Department is in each of the last two years. [110244] willing to meet with relevant experts. 217W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 218W

However as stated in my previous answer of 14 May Investment and Contract Readiness Fund 2012, Official Report, column 23W, there is already a food waste strategy in place. Ann McKechin: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Government Departments: Disputes Resolution Office what discussions and correspondence he has had with (a) the Scottish Government, (b) the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, (c) the Scottish Council Mr Donaldson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet of Voluntary Organisations and (d) other civic society Office how many applications have been made under organisations in Scotland on the establishment of the the internal disputes resolution procedure within Investment and Contract Readiness Fund. [110582] Government departments; and how many such applications have been resolved in favour of the applicant. [109996] Mr Hurd: The Investment and Contract Readiness Fund itself is for England only. As such, key stakeholders Mr Maude: Internal disputes resolution procedure representing the sector in England were consulted on most commonly relates to pensions. Answering on this how it could best provide support to social ventures basis, the information about the Principal Civil Service based there. Pension Scheme’s internal disputes resolution procedure is contained in the Resource Accounts for Cabinet Office: Civil Superannuation. This includes numbers of Lost Property complaints investigated and resolved. Copies of which are available in the Library of the House. Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Government Procurement Card Office how many items of equipment valued at £10,000 or more his Department lost in (a) 2010-11 and (b) Rachel Reeves: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet 2011-12; and if he will make a statement. [108921] Office when Government procurement card spending for each department will next be published on Mr Maude: The Cabinet Office have had no items of data.gov.uk; and what guidance his Department issues equipment valued at £10,000 or more reported lost in on the frequency with which such transparency data (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12. should be updated. [109744]

Mr Maude: Prior to the last general election information Manpower on procurement spending, including through Government Procurement Cards, was not proactively published. Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet As part of this Government’s transparency agenda, Office what target he has set to reduce headcount across the Prime Minister wrote to Secretaries of State last his Department, its non-departmental public bodies July committing to publish online all spend over £500 and Executive agencies in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and on Government Procurement Cards. This information (c) 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. [110242] is updated regularly by Departments. Mr Maude: In 2010 I said that we expected to reduce Hay Group the size of the Cabinet Office by 20% over the spending review period. Rachel Reeves: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet At 31 March 2012 my Department had already achieved Office whether his Department has any staff seconded a 24% reduction in staffing since the 2010 general from Hay Group; what the terms of their engagement election. with the Reward, Efficiency and Reform Group are; The closure of the National School for Government and what estimate he has made of the cost to the public and Central Office of Information in March 2012 will purse of producing the local pay map. [109471] result in further headcount reductions. Mr Maude [holding answer 24 May 2012]: My Department has one contract with Hay Group which Meetings was initially let in January 2010 for the value of £159,000 (excluding VAT) over three years. Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet High Speed 2 Railway Line Office on what dates (a) he, (b) Ministers and (c) senior officials in his Department have met representatives Steve Baker: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet of (i) the Institute for Public Policy Research, (ii) the Office what assessment he has made of the red-amber Taxpayers’ Alliance, (iii) the Institute of Economic warning given in the Major Projects Authority’s report Affairs, (iv) the Child Poverty Action Group, (v) ResPublica, on High Speed 2. [109252] (vi) the Centre for Social Justice and (vii) Policy Exchange; and if he will publish the minutes and agendas of these Mr Maude: All major projects are reviewed at every meetings. [108977] stage of their development to ensure that they are delivered as efficiently as possible and provide the best Mr Maude: Details of ministerial meetings with external possible value for taxpayers’ money. The MPA report organisations are published on the Cabinet Office website on HS2 made a number of recommendations to help at: ensure successful delivery. These recommendations were http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/resource-library/ministerial- accepted and are being acted upon. gifts-hospitality-travel-and-meetings-external-organisations 219W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 220W

Details of the most senior Cabinet Office officials’ Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the meetings with external organisations are published at: responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/resource-library/cabinet- asked the authority to reply. office-permanent-secretaries%E2%80%99-meetings-external- Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 24 May 2012: organisations No central record is kept of other departmental officials’ As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I meetings. have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question asking how many new (a) small and (b) medium-sized businesses Migration have been created in (i) Sevenoaks constituency and (ii) Kent local authority area in each of the last two years. [109876] Nicholas Soames: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Annual statistics on the number of enterprise births are available Office if he will estimate the level of net migration per from 2002 onwards in the ONS release on Business Demography at: annum which would be required to stabilise the population of the UK below 70 million. [109561] www.statistics.gov.uk The table below contains the latest statistics, which show the Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the number of enterprise births by employee size band in the constituency responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have of Sevenoaks, district of Sevenoaks and the county of Kent for asked the authority to reply. 2009 and 2010. Letter from Stephen Penneck: Count of enterprise births by employee size band in the constituency of Sevenoaks, district of Sevenoaks, and the county of Kent for 2009 and As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have 2010 been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking for an estimate of the level of net migration per annum which would be Constituency District Kent county required to stabilise the population of the UK below 70 million Sevenoaks Sevenoaks (109561). 0-49 50-249 0-49 50-249 0-49 50-249 small medium small medium small medium The most recent national population projections, based on the resident population at the middle of 2010, were published by the 2009 455 0 575 0 5,435 5 Office for National Statistics (ONS) on 26 October 2011. Under 2010 485 0 595 0 5,375 5 the principal assumption of long-term annual net migration of 200,000, the UK population is projected to surpass 70 million Note: The figures have been rounded to the nearest five, to avoid disclosure. people by 2027. ONS have not carried out any analysis to determine what level of net migration would be required for the population to stabilise below 70 million over the projection period to 2110. Nicholas Soames: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet However, ONS has produced a number of variant projections based on alternative assumptions of net migration. Under the Office how many new (a) small and (b) medium-sized assumption of long-term annual net migration of 100,000 or less, businesses have been created in (i) Mid Sussex the UK population would not exceed 70 million by 2035. constituency and (ii) West Sussex local authority area The assumptions underlying national population projections in each of the last two years. [110245] are demographic trend based. They are not forecasts and do not attempt to predict the impact that factors such as future government policies or changing economic circumstances might have on the Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the population. The projections also become increasingly uncertain responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have the further they are carried forward in time. asked the authority to reply. National Commissioning Academy Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 24 May 2012: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question Office with reference to the answer of 19 December asking how many new (a) small and (b) medium-sized businesses 2011, Official Report, column 1010W, on departmental have been created in (i) Mid Sussex constituency and (ii) West responsibilities, how many graduates of the National Sussex local authority area in each of the last two years. [110245] Commissioning Academy there will be in (a) 2011-12 Annual statistics on the number of enterprise births are available and (b) 2012-13; and if he will make a statement. from 2002 onwards in the ONS release on Business Demography [109534] at: www.statistics.gov.uk Mr Maude: The Commissioning Academy programme The table contains the latest statistics, which show the number of is being piloted during 2012. As part of the pilot enterprise births by employee size band in the constituency of process, we will consider what number of commissioners Mid Sussex, district of Mid Sussex and the county of West Sussex we should take through the Academy programme each for 2009 and 2010. year. Count of enterprise births by employee size band in the constituency of The Academy will bring commissioners from different Mid Sussex, district of Mid Sussex, and the County of West Sussex parts of the public sector together to learn from the for 2009 and 2010 most successful commissioning organisations. Constituency District Mid West Sussex Mid Sussex Sussex County New Businesses 0-49 50-249 0-49 50-249 0-49 50-249 Year Small Medium Small Medium Small Medium

Michael Fallon: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet 2009 450 0 635 0 3,210 5 Office how many new (a) small and (b) medium-sized 2010 515 0 665 0 3,195 5 businesses have been created in (i) Sevenoaks Note: constituency and (ii) Kent local authority area in each The above figures have been rounded to the nearest five to avoid of the last two years. [109876] disclosure. 221W Written Answers11 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 222W

Patients: Death was the underlying cause of death, and the second where the condition was mentioned anywhere on the death certificate, either as the underlying cause or as a contributory factor. Rosie Cooper: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Moreover, internationally accepted guidance from the World Office what estimate he has made of the number of Health Organisation requires only those conditions that contributed deaths in English hospitals caused by (a) malnutrition, directly to death to be recorded on the death certificate. Medical (b) dehydration and (c) pressure sores in each year practitioners and coroners are not supposed to record all of the from 2005 by strategic health authority. [110123] diseases or conditions present at or before death. Whether a condition contributed is a matter for their clinical judgement. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the The figures provided show the number of deaths that occurred responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have in English hospitals. They do not show how or where the specified asked the authority to reply. condition was acquired. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 11 June 2012: The number of deaths registered in England and Wales each year by sex, age, cause and place of death are published annually As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I and are available at: have been asked to reply to your recent question asking what estimate has been made of the number of deaths in English www.ons.gov.uk/ons/publications/all-releases.html? hospitals caused by (a) malnutrition, (b) dehydration and (c) definition=tcm%3A77-27475 pressure sores in each year from 2005 by strategic health authority. (110123) Pensioners Table 1 provides the number of deaths in hospitals where the underlying cause was (a) malnutrition, (b) dehydration (volume depletion or lack of water) or (c) pressure sores (decubitus Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Minister for the ulcers), for strategic health authorities in England between 2005 Cabinet Office how many people of pensionable age and 2010 (the latest year available). there are in Leicester South constituency. [109693] Table 2 provides the number of deaths in hospitals where (a) malnutrition or effects of hunger, (b) dehydration (volume depletion Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the or lack of water) or effects of thirst or (c) pressure sores (decubitus responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have ulcers) were mentioned on the death certificate, either as the asked the authority to reply. underlying cause or as a contributory factor, for strategic health authorities in England between 2005 and 2010 (the latest year Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 24 May 2012: available). Where an individual had more than one of the conditions As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I mentioned above, they will be included in the table more than have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question once. asking how many people of pensionable age there are in Leicester All of the data in Table 1 is included in Table 2, so you the South constituency (109693). figures cannot be combined to produce an overall number of There were 13,637 people of pensionable age in Leicester deaths. South constituency at mid-2010. This is the latest year for which Copies of the tables will be placed in the Library of the House. population estimates are available. Those who die with the conditions specified above are usually This estimate gives the number of women aged 60 and over, already very ill. For example, someone with malnutrition may and men aged 65 and over, which is the closest available approximation have cancer of the digestive tract, which means they cannot eat to state pension age at mid-2010 that can be obtained for population properly or cannot absorb nutrients. In these cases, malnutrition, estimates by parliamentary constituency. dehydration or pressure sore will be recorded on the death certificate as a condition that has contributed to the death, but it will not be the underlying cause. Therefore two sets of figures have been [Continued in Column 223W] provided: the first showing deaths where one of these conditions

ORAL ANSWERS

Monday 11 June 2012

Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE...... 1 DEFENCE—continued Aircraft Carrier Cover...... 5 Nuclear Deterrent ...... 17 Defence Budget...... 12 Regimental Structure (Wales)...... 16 Departmental Budget...... 14 Scottish Independence (Royal Navy Construction Departmental Procurement...... 13 Projects)...... 15 Life Insurance ...... 4 Social Housing...... 9 London Olympics (Security) ...... 8 Topical Questions ...... 17 Maritime Surveillance...... 7 War Widow Pensions ...... 6 New Equipment (Expenditure)...... 1 WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Monday 11 June 2012

Col. No. Col. No. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS ...... 1WS ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—continued Higher Education Update...... 1WS Renewable Heat Incentive ...... 8WS Post-EU Competitiveness Council ...... 1WS HOME DEPARTMENT...... 11WS CABINET OFFICE...... 4WS Family Migration...... 11WS Departmental Business Plans...... 4WS

COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 5WS TREASURY ...... 5WS Departmental Business (Whitsun Recess) ...... 5WS Bilateral Loan to Ireland (Revised Interest Rate) ... 5WS

ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 8WS WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 11WS Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation...... 9WS Workplace Pension Reform...... 11WS PETITION

Monday 11 June 2012

Col. No. Col. No. TRANSPORT ...... 1P Olympic Transport Arrangements ...... 1P WRITTEN ANSWERS

Monday 11 June 2012

Col. No. Col. No. ATTORNEY-GENERAL ...... 55W CABINET OFFICE—continued Correspondence ...... 55W Food Waste...... 216W Driving Offences: Prosecutions ...... 56W Government Departments: Disputes Resolution.... 217W Empty Property ...... 57W Government Procurement Card ...... 217W Fraud ...... 57W Hay Group...... 217W Mutual Societies ...... 57W High Speed 2 Railway Line ...... 217W Investment and Contract Readiness Fund ...... 218W CABINET OFFICE...... 208W Lost Property...... 218W Average Earnings ...... 208W Manpower...... 218W Big Lottery Fund ...... 210W Meetings ...... 218W Big Society and Localism Ministerial Group ...... 211W Migration...... 219W Big Society Capital...... 211W National Commissioning Academy...... 219W Billing ...... 211W New Businesses ...... 219W Cancer: Males ...... 211W Patients: Death...... 221W Charities Act 2006 Review ...... 212W Pensioners...... 222W Civil Service Learning...... 212W Companies: Newton Abbot...... 212W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT .1W Consultants...... 213W Affordable Housing: Coventry ...... 1W Efficiency and Reform Group ...... 213W Affordable Housing: New Abbot ...... 1W Employment ...... 214W Broadband: Rural Areas ...... 2W Every Business Commits...... 216W Bureaucracy...... 2W Col. No. Col. No. COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT— DEFENCE—continued continued Armed Forces Covenant ...... 93W Coastal Areas...... 3W Armed Forces: Manpower ...... 93W Community Development: Lancashire...... 3W Armed Forces: Pensions...... 94W Council Housing: Waiting Lists ...... 3W Armed Forces: Redundancy...... 94W Empty Property ...... 4W Armoured Fighting Vehicles ...... 95W Empty Property: Bolton...... 4W Army Regimental Structure ...... 91W Families: Disadvantaged ...... 4W AWE ...... 95W Fires: Cigarettes ...... 4W Cadet Forces...... 90W First Time Buyers ...... 5W Chiefs of Staff...... 97W Flood Control: EU Grants and Loans ...... 5W Chinook Helicopters...... 97W Food: Waste Disposal ...... 6W Complaints ...... 97W Google ...... 7W Cyprus: Military Bases...... 97W Green Belt...... 7W Debts Written Off ...... 98W Homes and Communities Agency: Housing...... 8W Defence: Fuels ...... 99W Housing ...... 8W Defence: Procurement...... 99W Housing: Construction...... 9W Falkland Islands: Rescue Services ...... 100W Journalism ...... 10W Future Large Aircraft ...... 100W Kingston upon Hull...... 10W Germany: Armed Forces...... 101W Listed Buildings ...... 10W Gibraltar: Spain ...... 101W Local Government: Intellectual Property...... 11W Harrier Aircraft ...... 102W Manpower...... 11W HMS Plymouth...... 102W Morecambe Winter Gardens Theatre...... 13W Horn of Africa...... 102W Planning Permission ...... 14W Israel...... 103W Poverty...... 15W Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft...... 103W Private Rented Housing ...... 15W Libya...... 91W Redundancy...... 16W Littoral Warfare...... 103W Right to Buy Scheme ...... 16W Meetings ...... 104W Social Rented Housing...... 17W Members: Correspondence ...... 104W Social Rented Housing: Veterans ...... 18W Military Aircraft ...... 104W Sustainable Communities Act 2007...... 18W Military Aircraft: Training ...... 104W Third Sector...... 19W Military Bases...... 105W Wind Power ...... 19W Mutual Societies ...... 105W Wind Power: Lancaster ...... 19W NATO...... 105W NATO: Armed Forces...... 106W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT...... 20W NATO: Unmanned Air Vehicles ...... 106W Arts...... 20W Navy: International Co-operation...... 106W Arts: East of England ...... 21W Nimrod Aircraft...... 106W Arts: Greater London ...... 21W Nuclear Weapons...... 107W Arts: Morecambe ...... 22W Operating Costs ...... 107W Arts: South East...... 22W Ordnance Board: Disclosure of Information ...... 107W Blue Plaques ...... 23W Patrol Craft...... 108W Broadband ...... 23W Private Finance Initiative ...... 108W Broadband Delivery UK...... 24W Public Expenditure...... 109W Broadband: Warrington...... 24W Public Sector...... 110W Charitable Donations...... 25W RAF Leuchars ...... 110W Claims Management Companies ...... 25W Rescue Services ...... 110W Complaints ...... 25W RM Condor ...... 111W Copyright: Journalism ...... 25W Royal Fleet Auxiliary ...... 111W Correspondence ...... 26W Scottish Independence: Defence Implications ...... 91W Debts Written Off ...... 26W Scottish Independence: Royal Navy Construction Disclosure of Information ...... 26W Projects ...... 91W Empty Property ...... 26W SD Marine Services...... 112W Fraud ...... 27W Sea King Helicopters ...... 112W Listed Buildings ...... 27W Sea Wolf Missiles...... 112W Listed Buildings: VAT ...... 27W Shipping...... 113W Local Broadcasting: Wales...... 28W Tomahawk Missiles...... 114W Mobile Phones ...... 28W Tornado Aircraft...... 114W Museums and Galleries: Lancaster ...... 29W Trident ...... 115W Mutual Societies ...... 29W Trident Missiles...... 115W National Lottery...... 30W Trident Submarines...... 115W Olympic Games 2012 ...... 30W Type 26 Frigates...... 115W Operating Costs ...... 31W Type 45 Destroyers...... 116W Pay...... 32W Warships ...... 116W Public Lending Right...... 32W DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 54W Publications ...... 33W Electoral Register...... 54W Tourism...... 33W House of Lords: Reform...... 55W Prisoners: Voting Rights ...... 55W DEFENCE...... 90W Adam Werritty...... 92W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 183W Aircraft Carriers ...... 92W Correspondence ...... 183W Col. No. Col. No. ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—continued HEALTH—continued Disclosure of Information ...... 183W NHS: Drugs...... 146W Electricity...... 184W NHS: Interest Rates ...... 146W Electricity: Meters...... 184W NHS: Pensions...... 146W Electricity: Prices ...... 184W NHS: Recruitment ...... 146W Electricity: Wales ...... 185W NHS: Redundancy...... 147W Empty Property ...... 186W NHS: Repairs and Maintenance ...... 147W Energy...... 187W NHS: Telephone Numbering ...... 148W Energy: Billing ...... 188W Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.. 148W Energy: Housing ...... 189W Nurses: Schools...... 149W Energy: Prices ...... 189W Obesity: Surgery...... 150W Energy Supply...... 188W Oestrogen...... 155W EU Emissions Trading Scheme ...... 191W Operating Costs ...... 155W Fraud ...... 191W Organs: Donors ...... 155W Fuel Poverty...... 191W Out-patients: Attendance...... 156W Fuel Poverty: Wales...... 192W Palliative Care...... 156W Green Deal Scheme...... 192W Postgraduate Education: Fees and Charges...... 158W Housing: Insulation ...... 195W Primary Care Trusts: North West...... 158W Hunterston B Power Station ...... 197W Prostate Cancer...... 159W Industry Contact Group On Distributed Energy.... 198W Publications ...... 159W Intergovernmental Panel On Climate Change ...... 198W Sexually Transmitted Infections ...... 160W Manpower...... 198W Sick Leave ...... 163W Mutual Societies ...... 199W Social Workers ...... 165W Natural Gas ...... 199W Surgery: Females...... 165W Natural Gas: Wales...... 200W Tranquilisers ...... 166W Nuclear Power Stations: EU Law...... 200W Tranquillisers: Misuse ...... 167W Offshore Industry: Safety...... 200W Vaccination ...... 168W Operating Costs ...... 201W Pay...... 201W Publications ...... 202W HOME DEPARTMENT...... 64W Radioactive Materials ...... 202W Alcoholic Drinks: Misuse...... 64W Radioactive Waste...... 202W Antisocial Behaviour: Alcoholic Drinks...... 66W Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs...... 203W Antisocial Behaviour Orders ...... 64W Renewables Obligation...... 205W Antisocial Behaviour Orders: Easington ...... 65W RenewableUK...... 205W Association of Chief Police Officers ...... 66W Warm Front Scheme ...... 206W Asylum: Young People...... 66W Wind Power ...... 207W Benzodiazepines...... 67W Closed Circuit Television ...... 67W Complaints ...... 67W HEALTH...... 117W Confiscation Orders ...... 68W Abortion ...... 117W Correspondence ...... 69W Antidepressants: Prescriptions ...... 118W Crime: Alcoholic Drinks...... 69W Asthma: Medical Equipment ...... 119W Criminal Proceedings ...... 69W Breasts: Plastic Surgery...... 119W Criminal Proceedings: EU Law...... 70W Cancer ...... 121W Cybercrime ...... 70W Cancer: Drugs...... 123W Databases: Telecommunications ...... 70W Cardiovascular System...... 125W Debts Written Off ...... 70W Chronic Fatigue Syndrome ...... 125W Deportation: EU Nationals...... 71W Clinical Trials...... 126W Detention Centres: Children ...... 71W Drugs: Prices...... 126W Disclosure of Information ...... 71W Electronic Cigarettes ...... 126W Emergency Services: Scotland ...... 72W Fertility: Medical Treatments...... 127W Empty Property ...... 72W Fluoride: Drinking Water ...... 128W Entry Clearances: Pakistan ...... 73W Fraud ...... 128W Eurojust ...... 73W General Practitioners ...... 128W Extradition Review ...... 73W Health Services: EU Nationals...... 129W Forced Marriage ...... 73W Health Services: Overseas Visitors ...... 130W Fur Trade...... 74W Health Services: Reciprocal Arrangements ...... 135W Human Trafficking: Children...... 75W Health Services: Scotland...... 135W Human Trafficking Ministerial Group...... 75W Health Services: Sign Language ...... 135W Immigration controls ...... 77W Home Care Services: Nottinghamshire ...... 136W Immigration Controls: Ports ...... 77W Hospital Beds...... 138W Immigration: Lancashire...... 78W Hospitals: Standards...... 137W Investigatory Powers Tribunal...... 78W Manpower...... 138W Khat: Smuggling ...... 78W Medicine: Education...... 140W Larne Detention Centre ...... 78W Mental Health Services ...... 143W Licensed Premises: Security ...... 79W Mental Health Services: Prisons...... 143W Licensing Laws: Enfield ...... 79W Mental Health Services: Veterans...... 144W Members: Correspondence ...... 80W Mental Illness ...... 144W Mutual Societies ...... 80W Methadone...... 145W Operating Costs ...... 81W Mutual Societies ...... 145W Passports...... 82W NHS: Charitable Donations...... 145W Pay...... 83W Col. No. Col. No. HOME DEPARTMENT—continued TRANSPORT—continued Police and Crime Commissioners...... 83W Operating Costs ...... 45W Police and Crime Commissioners: Wales...... 83W Parking ...... 45W Police: Court Orders ...... 84W Publications ...... 46W Police: Retirement ...... 84W Railways: Freight ...... 46W Police: Rural Areas...... 84W Railways: Penalty Fares...... 46W Proceeds of Crime...... 84W Rescue Services ...... 46W Public Expenditure...... 86W Rescue Services: Northern Ireland ...... 47W Publications ...... 87W Risk Assessment ...... 48W Security: Football...... 87W Road Works ...... 48W Suicide: Internet...... 88W Roads: Safety ...... 48W Telephone Services...... 88W Rolling Stock ...... 49W Terrorism ...... 88W Rolling Stock: Procurement ...... 49W Theft: Metals ...... 89W Shipping...... 50W Theft: Mobile Phones...... 89W Shipping: Treaties...... 52W UK Border Agency ...... 90W Sick Leave ...... 52W South West Trains ...... 53W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 61W Thames Estuary Airport ...... 53W Chad ...... 61W Transport ...... 53W Correspondence ...... 61W Travel ...... 54W Democratic Republic of Congo ...... 61W Developing Countries: Sanitation ...... 62W TREASURY ...... 169W Publications ...... 63W Banks...... 169W Sudan: Southern Sudan ...... 63W Building Societies...... 169W Business: Loans...... 169W LEADER OF THE HOUSE...... 64W Child Benefit...... 170W Pensions...... 64W Community Development...... 171W Correspondence ...... 171W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 58W Crown Estate ...... 171W Debts Written Off ...... 58W Debts Written Off ...... 172W Manpower...... 58W Disclosure of Information ...... 172W Mutual Societies ...... 58W Empty Property ...... 172W Pay...... 58W Equitable Life Assurance Society: Leicester ...... 172W Excise Duties: Fraud...... 172W Finance (No. 4) Bill...... 173W SCOTLAND...... 59W Industrial and Provident Societies Act 2002...... 173W Linear Park, Invergordon...... 59W Interest Rates ...... 173W Sovereignty ...... 59W JP Morgan ...... 174W Sovereignty ...... 59W Manpower...... 174W Third Sector...... 59W Members: Correspondence ...... 174W Mutual Societies ...... 174W TRANSPORT ...... 33W National Insurance Contributions ...... 174W Agricultural Vehicles...... 33W Non-domestic Rates: Public Houses ...... 175W Airlines and Tour Operators ...... 34W PAYE...... 175W Bus Services ...... 34W Peers: Allowances...... 175W Bus Services: Morecambe ...... 35W Personal Service Company Arrangements...... 176W Bus Services: Rural Areas ...... 35W Publications ...... 177W Chiltern Railway Line ...... 35W Revenue and Customs...... 177W Complaints ...... 36W Revenue and Customs: Telephone Services ...... 179W Consultants...... 36W Royal Bank of Canada...... 179W Correspondence ...... 36W Tax Allowances: Charitable Donations ...... 179W Disclosure of Information ...... 37W Tax Avoidance ...... 180W Dover Port ...... 37W Vaccination ...... 180W Driving: Licensing...... 38W VAT ...... 181W Driving Under Influence...... 38W VAT and Excise Duties...... 182W Fraud ...... 39W VAT: Bakery Products...... 182W Heathrow Airport ...... 40W VAT: Caravans ...... 182W Highways Agency ...... 40W Working Tax Credit ...... 183W London Airports...... 41W Manpower...... 41W WALES...... 60W Meetings ...... 43W Correspondence ...... 60W Members: Correspondence ...... 43W Debts Written Off ...... 60W Mobility Scooters...... 43W Empty Property ...... 60W Motor Vehicles: EU Law...... 43W Fraud ...... 61W Motorists’ Forum...... 44W Manpower...... 61W Motorways: Emergency Telephones...... 44W Mutual Societies ...... 45W WOMEN AND EQUALITIES ...... 168W Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012...... 45W Equality and Human Rights Commission...... 168W Members who wish to have the Daily Report of the Debates forwarded to them should give notice at the Vote Office. 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CONTENTS

Monday 11 June 2012

List of Government and Principal Officers of the House

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

Changes to the Budget [Col. 23] Answer to urgent question—(Mr Gauke)

Syria [Col. 32] Statement—(Mr Hague)

Family Migration [Col. 48] Statement—(Mrs May)

Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill [Col. 64] Amendment—(Mr Umunna)—on a Division, negatived Read a Second time Programme motion—(Angela Watkinson)—on a Division, agreed to

Dementia Services (South-West) [Col. 144] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 1WS]

Petition [Col. 1P] Observations

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