Business of the House

Thursday 19th March 2026 Commons Chamber

10:38

[Jesse Norman (Hereford and South Herefordshire) (Con)]

Will the Leader of the House give us the forthcoming business?

[The Leader of the House of Commons (Sir Alan Campbell)]

The business for the week commencing 23 March will include:

Monday 23 March—Consideration of Lords amendments to the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, followed by consideration of Lords amendments to the National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill.

Tuesday 24 March—Opposition day (20th allotted day). Debate on a motion in the name of the official Opposition. Subject to be announced.

Wednesday 25 March—Consideration of Lords amendments to the Victims and Courts Bills.

Thursday 26 March—Debate on a motion on transport accessibility for disabled people, followed by general debate on support for Gurkha veterans. The subjects for these debates were determined by the Backbench Business Committee.

The House of Commons will rise for the Easter recess at the conclusion of business on Thursday 26 March and return on Monday 13 April.

[Jesse Norman]

Let me begin by paying tribute to President Zelensky. Thanks to you, Mr Speaker, he gave an extraordinary speech here this week. Like Auden’s “The Shield of Achilles”, it was a speech of poetry and hope, but also of steel. He showed that Ukraine, far from being bowed by Russia, is now sharing its expertise in counter-drone defence with nations across the Gulf and elsewhere.

I give thanks for the swift action that the Government have taken to support households that are now facing sharp and unexpected increases in the cost of heating oil, including many in Herefordshire. As Herefordshire goes, so goes the UK. The events in the middle east have exposed a hard truth: this country is dangerously exposed on energy, and the Government’s policies are compounding that vulnerability. Around a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes through the strait of Hormuz. When that is threatened, prices spike, and when prices spike, everything else is hit—heating, electricity, industry and jobs. Every industrialised economy relies on secure and affordable energy, yet this country imports around 60% of the gas we use. We pay far more for it than our competitor nations do—around three times US prices—so when shocks come, the benefits of higher gas prices go to other countries, but our citizens bear the higher costs and added insecurity.

That structural vulnerability has built up over decades under Governments of all the major parties, but this Government are negligently or deliberately making it much worse. They have blocked new North sea licences, and sent a clear signal that domestic oil and gas production is to be run down, regardless of demand. The consequences of these decisions are already visible. The CF Fertilisers plant near Chester has closed thanks to high energy costs, so this country now imports ammonia instead. The Grangemouth refinery is ceasing its refining operations and becoming an import terminal. In Aberdeen, Scunthorpe and Teesside, investment is falling and companies are failing. Thousands of jobs have been lost, and tens of thousands more put at risk. Little wonder that a host of businesses and unions, including Unite, the GMB and even RenewableUK, have expressed their concern.

These are not isolated events; they are the predictable effects of policy decisions taken by Ministers without any serious consideration of the economic and strategic consequences in the current context. The Energy Secretary often says that the problem is global gas prices, and that increasing domestic production makes no difference. Of course that is nonsense, because domestic production actually boosts jobs, public revenues and national resilience while lowering emissions. But that line is also dangerously misleading. Gas prices are regional, not global, because gas, unlike oil, is relatively expensive to ship and store. The Energy Secretary is confusing a global market with global pricing. It is a basic error.

Alas, the Chancellor is no less confused. On Tuesday, she said:

“You see countries like Canada and Norway increasing their production, and every country’s got to play their part”.

But, in her view, that does not include the UK. Her policy is precisely the opposite: not to increase but to reduce oil and gas production. You could not make it up. Shortly we will hear the Business Secretary make a statement on how the Government want to increase domestic steel production, even while they are stopping the domestic oil and gas on which that steel production relies. It is an absolute nonsense.

If we cut domestic production in the face of steady demand, imports will fill the gap, but an increasingly import-dependent system is forced to rely ever more on pipelines, LNG cargoes and interconnectors. These are vulnerable fixed assets that are open to damage and disruption from abroad, and there is a further consequence. Modern conflict is determined by industrial capacity in steel, chemicals, fuels and supply chains, yet the Government are allowing these national sovereign capabilities to erode.

So this is a policy that increases carbon emissions, deprives Britain of tax revenues, worsens the balance of payments, hurts consumers and businesses, and weakens both our energy resources and our national security—that is quite an achievement. It is hard to imagine a more confused or dangerous approach. I do not want a debate on this topic as we can all see what is happening: at some point there must be a U-turn, because Iran is making a fool of the Energy Secretary. No, I desperately want the Leader of the House to get the Prime Minister to see the madness of this approach and get the policy changed as soon as he possibly can.

[Sir Alan Campbell]

First, may I say that my thoughts are with the friends and families of the young people who have died and others who are currently unwell as a result of the meningitis outbreak in Kent?

I also place on record our tribute to Phil Woolas, who was a greatly respected and admired colleague and played a considerable role in modernising the Labour party. I am sure the whole House will join me in sending our condolences to his friends and family.

Let me join the shadow Leader of the House in praise of President Zelensky and what he said earlier this week. A new defence pact has been agreed this week between the UK and Ukraine. By deepening our defence partnership, we are strengthening Ukraine’s ability to defend itself from Putin’s ongoing attacks while ensuring that the UK and our allies are better prepared to meet the threats of the future.

As the shadow Leader of the House said, we were honoured to listen to President Zelensky on Tuesday. I must thank you, Mr Speaker, for the role you played in organising the event, as well as in making clear the House’s unwavering support for the Ukrainian people.

I will mention another couple of things, if I may, before I get to the comments made by the shadow Leader of the House. On Monday, the Modernisation Committee launched an inquiry into Backbench Business Committee and Petitions Committee debates as part of an ongoing inquiry on how time is used in this place. Both Committees play a vital role in bringing key issues of local, national and international importance to the House. Members will have received an online form seeking their views. I encourage all Members to engage with the inquiry.

This morning, the response of the House administration to the Modernisation Committee’s report on accessibility in the House of Commons was published. I thank all who contributed to the inquiry and the House authorities for the progress they are making on addressing the important matters raised in the report. As I committed, the House will have the opportunity to consider the report in due course.

Let me turn to the comments of the shadow Leader of the House. First, I thank him for the support he has given for what we have already done on the price of fuel oil. Let me reassure his Herefordshire constituents, and indeed the House, that the Government keep these matters in the forefront of our mind and under close scrutiny, and if necessary we will take further action.

I agree with the shadow Leader of the House on one point: that we should be concerned about potential spikes in fuel prices during crises. I have to say, he made an admirable case for energy independence and the policy of the Government.

The shadow Leader of the House talked about the North sea as a matter of concern. It is a matter of concern for the whole country, and particularly for constituencies in the region that I represent. I have to point out that the North sea is a mature oil and gas area, so some of the things he said have happened there are not surprising. It is mature and, in that sense, declining, but gas and energy from the North sea will be part of the energy transition in the UK for some decades to come. The big lesson that we learn from this crisis is that we have to get off the rollercoaster of oil and gas, which means getting off fossil fuels and on to home-grown clean power. He talked about the Government’s inaction, but we are bringing forward the next auction for renewables, extending solar and accelerating the warm homes plan roll-out.

The shadow Leader of the House talked about the loss of jobs in the area. I have to point out that a 70% fall in jobs in the North sea came about during the time of the Government of which he was a supporter. In terms of turning it around, it would take a decade between starting to explore and extracting oil. Not a single barrel of extra oil extracted from the North sea today will reduce prices for consumers. If he will not take my word for it, let him take the words of the Conservative Energy Minister in 2022, who said that

“more UK production wouldn’t reduce the global price of gas.”

As the shadow Leader of the House said, you could not make it up.

On the question of steel, there will be a statement later today about our steel strategy going forward. The idea that we do not value these national assets is, I am afraid, simply untrue. We have acted already on Scunthorpe, and we will be acting not just on steel, but on other matters of national importance, because they are in our national interest.

[Kirsteen Sullivan (Bathgate and Linlithgow) (Lab/Co-op)]

Last Saturday, Nicola’s women’s support group celebrated its first anniversary, marking a year of welcoming women in West Lothian to connect, share experiences and offer a listening ear. Nicola’s was founded in memory of a beautiful young woman, Nicola, who took her own life after repeated delays to desperately needed surgery for endometriosis. Will the Leader of the House join me in thanking the Nicola’s team, including her family and all the volunteers, for the invaluable work they do to support local women?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I will. It is unacceptable that Nicola had to wait so long for the surgery that she needed, and I am sorry to hear of her family and friends’ tragic loss. We have committed to renewing the women’s health strategy to tackle inequalities and improve access to healthcare for women across England, and support groups such as Nicola’s provide an essential lifeline for women living with health issues. I encourage my hon. Friend and other Members to attend next week’s Westminster Hall debate on access to endometriosis services.

[Mr Speaker]

I call the Liberal Democrat spokesperson.

[Bobby Dean (Carshalton and Wallington) (LD)]

I am sure that you, Mr Speaker, will be as concerned as I am about the recent outbreak of meningitis in Kent, and I am sure the thoughts of the whole House are with the families who have lost loved ones already. The UK Health Security Agency has a huge job on its hands to get good public health information out there and to work with the NHS on a targeted vaccination programme. It is a reminder of how much faith and trust we put in health professionals in these moments of crisis. They are all dedicated to keeping us safe.

This situation is also a reminder of the dangers of bad information. It is a sad truth that in this country, the take-up rates of child vaccination have declined over the past decade. Some of that has been attributed to misinformation that is allowed to spread freely online, but there are also well-organised and well-funded anti-vaccination groups, which I am sure we have all come across. Unfortunately, that has been egged on at times by populist politicians. President Trump in America has appointed a vaccine sceptic into a senior role in the White House and the Reform party platformed an anti-vax spokesperson at its conference recently.

All of us who have dared to confront this subject will have got stick online. I have even had protesters stop me on the high street while walking my dog to give me stick about the subject. I think that has made us a little bit scared as a political class to take this subject on, and it is about time that we used moments like this to take on the conspiracy theorists. Will the Leader of the House organise for a statement to be made about how we will tackle the rise in misinformation and conspiracy theories and, ultimately, get the rate of childhood vaccination up again?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

First, as I said in my earlier remarks, our thoughts are with the friends and families of the young people who tragically died, but also with others who are currently unwell. The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right about the importance of the UKHSA. It is monitoring the situation and has launched a targeted vaccination programme, starting with students who are most at risk. They will be contacted directly. I encourage everyone affected to take preventive antibiotics or the vaccine if they are offered them.

The Health Secretary is considering what steps can be taken to improve wider vaccination uptake, not just in respect of this matter, but across the population. The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right in his comments about misinformation or disinformation. I urge everyone to share the public health information that is being disseminated online so that we can spread facts, rather than misinformation. It is an important matter, and I will draw his comments to the attention of the Health Secretary.

[Linsey Farnsworth (Amber Valley) (Lab)]

Denby Pottery has been the heart of Amber Valley since 1809. It provides over 500 jobs and brings in 250,000 visitors a year, but it has sadly had to apply for administration support. While the Prime Minister has already committed to a review of the supercharger scheme, which helps with energy costs, I hope that it will be sped up in the light of the current situation and include the ceramics industry. Today, the #SaveDenby campaign has launched, which asks people to buy Denby pottery, visit the brilliant pottery village in Derbyshire or just simply share the campaign far and wide. With Easter around the corner, might I invite the Leader of the House to consider picking up some Denby pottery, and will he join me in encouraging other Members to do the same and help me save Denby Pottery?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I will certainly give that consideration, and I join my hon. Friend in encouraging Members to pick up some Denby pottery. This is a crisis situation for the company, and I know that it will be a difficult period ahead—we should consider doing anything that we can do to help. The Government recognise that energy prices are a significant pressure on UK industry, including ceramics. That is why, as she mentions, we are increasing the discount on energy costs through the British industry supercharger. However, I do know that this will be a worrying time for the employees at Denby Pottery, and I will ensure that Ministers are aware of her concerns as a matter of urgency.

[Mr Speaker]

I call the Chair of the Backbench Business Committee.

[Bob Blackman (Harrow East) (Con)]

I thank the Leader of the House for announcing the Chamber business for next week. Could he give us early notice of whether we will get time after Easter, so that the Committee can allocate time accordingly? In addition, next Thursday there will be a statement from the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee on its report on coastal erosion.

In Westminster Hall, next Tuesday there will be a debate on sudden unexplained death in childhood, and on Thursday 26 March there will be a debate on outcomes for patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and craniocervical instability, followed by a debate on the potential merits of mandatory body armour for prison officers. On Tuesday 14 April, when we come back, there will be a debate on hidden credit liabilities and the role of the Financial Conduct Authority. On Thursday 16 April, there will be a debate on the housing needs of young people, followed by a debate on the NHS federated data platform. I hope that the Leader of the House will bring forward the necessary changes to Standing Orders that he promised before we prorogue for the state opening of Parliament.

In my position as chairman of the all-party parliamentary group for British Hindus, I have been in contact with Peterborough city council about the plight of the Bharat Hindu Samaj temple. This is the only Hindu temple in Peterborough. There are 11 mosques in the area, and I wish them Eid Mubarak as we approach the end of Ramadan. The council decided to sell the temple after the trustees of the temple agreed to match any other bid that came forward. They eventually offered £1.4 million. The councillors, however, chose another bid of £1.2 million. This was kept secret. Now the trustees have taken the case to court and, indeed, have got to a position whereby the judge has stayed the sale of the site. Could we have a statement from the Secretary of State next week on what action he will take to ensure that we preserve the opportunity for Hindus in Peterborough and across the country to celebrate their religion in proper fashion in peace and harmony?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

On early notice of Backbench time, I will certainly bear in mind what the hon. Gentleman says, and I thank him for the work of his Committee. He will appreciate, however, that as we approach—and it is no secret—the end of this Session, over the next few weeks things such as Lords amendments will tend to dominate. It is quite tricky to take out all such uncertainty, but I will do everything I can. On the change to Standing Orders, I will certainly look at what he requests and see if we can do that.

On the concerns that the hon. Gentleman raises about the Hindu community in Peterborough, we understand those concerns, not least because of the excellent work on these matters of my hon. Friend the Member for Peterborough (Andrew Pakes). The temple has been the primary place of worship for members of his community for many years. This is ultimately a matter for the local authority, but we hope that it will engage productively with the community on this matter. On the wider matter of temples and places of worship, I will raise the hon. Gentleman’s concerns with the relevant Secretary of State.

[Mr Speaker]

I will now bring in the Member of Parliament for Peterborough.

[Andrew Pakes (Peterborough) (Lab/Co-op)]

Thank you, Mr Speaker.

As the Member of Parliament representing the constituency where the temple is based, may I put it on record that I am deeply disappointed not to have had a conversation with the hon. Member for Harrow East (Bob Blackman), who has used parliamentary privilege to state some untruths about something that is subject to legal action?

[Mr Speaker]

Order. Members cannot use the word “untruths”. There may have been a misunderstanding, but we certainly must not have “untruths”.

[Andrew Pakes]

I am sorry, Mr Speaker, and I apologise to the House. The hon. Member for Harrow East has stated things that are not factual in relation to this.

One of the great blessings I have as a Member of Parliament is joining communities to celebrate festivals such Diwali, Hanukkah and Vaisakhi. In the coming hours, I will be joining many members of my community to celebrate Eid. Does the Leader of the House recognise the divisive, exclusionary, hateful language that some people have used to describe a community iftar in recent days? That has shown that it is not about British values; seeking to divide and to drive hatred is the antithesis of that. Will he join me in wishing well all those who will be taking part in Eid in the Park in Peterborough in the coming hours, showing off the best of my city? Will he also provide parliamentary time for a debate on the language that we use about social cohesion and bringing our faiths together rather than dividing them?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his clarification on this matter, and I am more than happy to speak to him afterwards about it.

On the statements that my hon. Friend condemns, the Prime Minister was absolutely clear yesterday that those statements from the Opposition spokesperson were utterly appalling and will only spread poison and division. Freedom of religion and the right of peaceful expression are fundamental British values, not the opposite. These rights should be respected for everyone, and that applies equally to peaceful prayer, protesting or assembly wherever it happens to be. I join my hon. Friend in wishing well everyone celebrating Eid, wherever they are celebrating it, but with a warning to all parties in this place that if they get into the gutter on these matters, the public will not forgive them.

[Mr Speaker]

I remind Members that, if they are going to mention another Member’s constituency, they should please give them notice. It is a courtesy that should happen.

[Dame Karen Bradley (Staffordshire Moorlands) (Con)]

One great privilege of being a Member of Parliament is the ability to raise constituents’ concerns directly with Ministers. Unfortunately, far too frequently, the responses to be sent to our constituents come from officials rather than Ministers. I am sure the Leader of the House agrees that our constituents are entitled to hear from the Ministers themselves. Will he remind his ministerial colleagues of their duty to ensure that our constituents hear directly from them, not their officials?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank the right hon. Lady for raising this question, because Members who write to Ministers do so with the reasonable expectation that they will receive a timely and substantive response from a Minister, and that is absolutely right. If she has a specific example to draw to my attention, I will raise that with the appropriate Department, and I will raise the wider issue with other Departments, too.

[Apsana Begum (Poplar and Limehouse) (Lab)]

We have a profound duty to those who elect us regarding the scrutiny of legislation. This week, the other place has been debating the Crime and Policing Bill, which is wide in scope and raises several concerns of the utmost importance to our constituents. Will the Leader of the House clarify how long Members will have to properly debate and vote on Lords amendments on a new category of extreme criminal protest groups, as well as Government new clauses on so-called cumulative disruption and face coverings, which have profound equalities implications? Will he assure us that timetabling pressures before the end of this parliamentary Session will not prevent proper scrutiny and consideration of this serious and substantive Bill?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for her question. As she notes, amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill have been considered by the House of Lords. The Government will consider them as we move forward. I will announce future business in the House in the usual way, but I am absolutely conscious of the importance of providing sufficient time for parliamentary scrutiny, wherever it falls in the parliamentary year.

[Jamie Stone (Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross) (LD)]

I note what the Leader of the House said about the forthcoming consultation exercise. I urge right hon. and hon. Members to take part.

The shadow Leader of the House has touched on the activities in recent months of Russian spy ships and submarines off the coast of my constituency, taking a peer at our undersea cables and connections, and the strategic resource of the North sea in oil and offshore wind energy. May I respectfully ask the Leader of the House to help facilitate a meeting between me, and perhaps other concerned Members from other parties, and appropriate Ministers to discuss this issue and what our means of defence are?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The North sea is a critical asset and the Government understand the vital role it will play in the future. It is Britain’s greatest asset in building our energy future. It gives Scotland and the rest of Britain the chance to lead in offshore wind, carbon capture and storage, and hydrogen, alongside oil and gas production. It is such an important matter that I will help to facilitate the meeting that the hon. Gentleman asks for.

[Alistair Strathern (Hitchin) (Lab)]

The events in the middle east have shown how exposed we remain to polluting and volatile oil and gas markets. Moving on to clean, domestically secure power is the long-term solution, but in the short term we should not allow gas producers to profiteer while they still far too often set the market price. Analysis by Greenpeace and Stonehaven suggests that we could save millions for households and businesses across the UK by moving gas-powered stations into a regulated asset base. May we have a statement from the Energy Secretary on how we can drive through such important market reforms, so that consumers and businesses across the UK can get much-needed money off their energy bills?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Throughout this conflict, our first priority has been to help households with the cost of living. That underlines our need to focus on clean, homegrown energy. As the role of gas diminishes, we will continue to explore how market and system arrangements can evolve to minimise its impact on consumer bills. We will learn the lessons from the current situation we find ourselves in. I encourage my hon. Friend to raise his specific concerns at Energy Security and Net Zero questions next week.

[Steve Barclay (North East Cambridgeshire) (Con)]

On Tuesday evening, a car with five teenagers left the road near Wisbech in my constituency and entered the river. Tragically, only three of the teenagers exited the car. I am sure the whole House will join me in sending our condolences to the families affected by this tragedy and the emergency services who are performing the distressing recovery.

In “Fit for the Future: 10 Year Plan”, the Government set out three big shifts for the NHS. The first is in care services moving from hospital into the community, yet the exact opposite is happening in Fenland, both at the North Cambridgeshire hospital site and the Doddington site, where services are being reduced and moved to hospital settings. May we have a debate on whether this is the latest Government U-turn that they have not yet announced, or are health bosses free to ignore the strategy and do the exact opposite locally?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

First, I join the right hon. Gentleman and the House in sending our deepest condolences to the friends and family of the young people involved. Each and every one of them is a tragedy.

On the wider issue about the NHS in the right hon. Gentleman’s area, there is no question of a U-turn. He knows very well, from his former roles in government, the importance of delivering services locally but having a Government setting the strategy and providing the resources. I do not know the detail, other than what he has said, but if he wishes to provide me with that, I will certainly raise it with colleagues in the Department of Health and Social Care. In trusts across the country, there are many who, despite this Government putting more money into the NHS, are struggling with the legacy of his Government.

[Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney) (Lab)]

The Government have delivered for mineworkers and their families on improving their pension schemes. Although members of both the mineworkers’ pension scheme and the British Coal staff superannuation scheme tell me that they are pleased after the release of reserved funds, there are many former miners in their 80s and 90s who could benefit further from future support. Can we please have a statement from the Minister for Industry on the next steps for both those schemes?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend rightly draws attention to the fact that the Government have delivered justice for members of the former British Coal pension scheme. I thank him for the role he played in the campaign to persuade the Government to do that. He may wish to raise his question directly with Ministers at Energy Security and Net Zero oral questions next week to see what more could be done. Should he seek a meeting with Ministers on that, I will help him to arrange one.

[Wera Hobhouse (Bath) (LD)]

At a time of heightened global tension, we must be aware of how important it is that we look after our current and ex-service personnel. I have a constituent who served in the Army and later in the Ministry of Defence for 50 years. He survived stage 4 cancer and his illness is now forcing him to retire. Capita, which administers the civil service pension scheme, has taken over two years to get a statement to him about his pension, ultimately delaying the moment when he can retire. That is just one of five different civil service pension cases that my office has had to deal with in the last three months, none of which has received responses from Capita. May we have a statement from the relevant Minister about how we will improve the situation for my constituents and for many across the country?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I am sorry to hear of the hon. Lady’s constituents. Veterans and servicemen and women are held very highly in our thoughts and regard. The delay that she describes is unacceptable; it is not the service that people deserve and resolving the matter is of the utmost urgency. There is a recovery plan under way and an interest-free loan is being made available by Departments to provide immediate financial support. The Cabinet Office is also using every opportunity to hold Capita to account and ensure that it delivers. It is about individual cases, so if the hon. Lady wishes to raise that individual case with me, I will see whether we can resolve that. However, there is the wider issue about how we can resolve this for everyone—I imagine there is a case in just about every constituency—so that everybody gets the justice that they deserve.

[Helena Dollimore (Hastings and Rye) (Lab/Co-op)]

The Queensway Gateway Road works were a shambles from start to finish. They were meant to last weeks, but dragged on for almost a year, causing gridlock and losing local businesses millions. We have just found out that Conservative-run East Sussex county council overspent by £5 million on those shambolic works. Does the Leader of the House agree that that is £5 million less to repair our potholes and our roads? Does he also agree that East Sussex county council and the contractors, who include Balfour Beatty, owe it to local taxpayers to explain what the hell went so wrong and how they will ensure that it does not happen again?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend is a doughty campaigner for her constituency and on this very issue. The roadworks have been very disruptive for her constituents and there are serious questions, as she said, about how this has been managed by East Sussex county council. I will ensure that Ministers hear her concerns, and she may wish to raise them directly with Ministers at Transport questions next week. Just as importantly, by raising them then and here, I hope that her constituents get to hold the council to account.

[Rebecca Smith (South West Devon) (Con)]

My constituent John Mildmay-White, whose ancestor was a Member of this House over 100 years ago, has completed a 600 km run from Mothecombe in Devon to Westminster Bridge in aid of Wild About The Erme River, raising at least £25,000 for that cause. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating him and all the campaigners who supported him?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I will absolutely join the hon. Lady in praising Mr John Mildmay-White on his achievement and considerable initiative. It just goes to show what remarkable people we have in our constituencies.

[Melanie Ward (Cowdenbeath and Kirkcaldy) (Lab)]

Under the SNP Scottish Government, police numbers in Fife have fallen by an average of one a month. Results from my new antisocial behaviour survey show that four in 10 Cowdenbeath residents are afraid to go out after dark, and more than half witness antisocial behaviour every single week. This is unacceptable. Does the Leader of the House agree that Cowdenbeath has been badly let down by the SNP, and that we need change, and will he grant Government time for a debate on antisocial behaviour?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I absolutely join my hon. Friend in her analysis of the situation. This Government are committed to making our streets safer by delivering 13,000 more neighbourhood policing roles and introducing new respect orders to deter and drive down antisocial behaviour. As for what happens north of the border, I would remind the House that we have delivered Scotland’s largest settlement since devolution. I hope that the SNP has heard my hon. Friend’s contribution and will take action. I encourage her to apply for a Westminster Hall debate on these matters, so that she can set out the failure of the SNP Government in this regard in even more detail.

[Chris Law (Dundee Central) (SNP)]

In January, the UK Government announced that the listed places of worship grant scheme, which has allowed congregations to reclaim VAT on repairs to listed places of worship, would close at the end of March. While a replacement scheme was announced for England, I understand that the Scottish Government were not informed in advance of this change, leaving both the Scottish Government and places of worship in the lurch following this sudden, unexpected decision. [Hon. Members: “They were given the money!”] Can we have a statement from the UK Government, explaining this total disregard, and confirming that funding will be made available through the Barnett formula for a similar scheme in Scotland?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The hon. Gentleman may know of my appreciation of the importance of places of worship in communities, wherever they happen to be in our country. I do not know the details of the matter that he was talking about, but I was listening to what my hon. Friends were saying from the Benches behind me; I will look into this matter after these questions, but my understanding is that the SNP Government were given the money for this, as part of the biggest settlement ever for Scotland.

[Sally Jameson (Doncaster Central) (Lab/Co-op)]

Capita’s handling of the civil service pension scheme has been absolutely abysmal. I have constituents in the Prison Service and across the whole civil service who have had their life devastated because of the financial consequences. Will the Leader of the House escalate this matter to the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister? A cross-departmental approach is now required to ensure that Capita cannot continue to degrade our public services and the people who work in them.

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I certainly will do as my hon. Friend asks. The Government are taking action on these matters, but I will also undertake to escalate this in the way that she suggests.

[John Lamont (Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk) (Con)]

Tomorrow I will be enjoying Kelso’s musical theatre performance of “Beauty and the Beast” at Tait Hall; on Saturday, I will be at Lauder Amateur Dramatic Society’s performance for its 76th year at Lauder public hall. From the Leader of the House’s marvellous performances here in the House of Commons, I know that he is a great fan of amateur dramatics; will he join me in wishing the performers and production teams well?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

It is always good to hear from the ironman on the other side of the House, not least about musical theatre. He is right that I am a fan of musical theatre, so I will certainly join him in wishing all the participants in the Kelso musical theatre and Lauder Amateur Dramatic Society shows the best of luck. On a serious point, amateur dramatics groups across the country play a valuable role in bringing communities together and nurturing talent, and we thank each and every one of them.

[Jon Pearce (High Peak) (Lab)]

This week in Parliament, I hosted Mummy’s Star, a charity that supports mums with cancer in and around pregnancy. The charity was set up by my constituent Pete Wallroth in honour of his wife, Mair, who tragically died just after their son was born. Mummy’s Star is campaigning for a change in the law to allow women who are diagnosed with cancer to defer or pause their maternity leave while they receive cancer treatment, so that they can spend their maternity leave doing what it should be for: developing the bond with their child. Will the Leader of the House grant Government time for a debate on the impact of cancer during pregnancy?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend raises an important topic. Let us put on record our thanks to Pete Wallroth, although, of course, we would all prefer him not to be in that situation. Everyone should get a personalised needs assessment and personal cancer plan that takes into account their wider need, including the impact of pregnancy, where that is relevant. In addition, the parental leave and pay review will explore how the system can better support working families. I strongly encourage my hon. Friend to apply for a debate in Westminster Hall on this very important issue.

[Tessa Munt (Wells and Mendip Hills) (LD)]

My constituent, an indomitable lady in her eighties, was seriously assaulted at home last year, and her assailant was jailed. He was given a sentence, and the court granted an exclusion order covering the whole area around her home, where he committed the offence. Over a month ago, he was released early, but without a GPS tag, as I understand it. He has been seen twice in the area from which he was excluded by court order. The police have no “proof” that he has been in breach of his licence conditions, and probation says that it has no grounds for recalling the offender. Services are asking my constituent, who, unusually, is terrified, to gather and provide the evidence that he was in breach, so that they can investigate properly. Can we have some sort of statement from the Justice Ministry to make sure that we get this tagging contract sorted out, once and for all? Also, can we stop services using phrases such as, “We are sorry for the disappointment about the scenario”? That means absolutely nothing to my constituent; she is more than sorry about what is happening.

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I am sure that the hon. Lady’s constituent is more than sorry, because this appears to be an unacceptable case. If the hon. Lady gives me the details, I will raise the matter with the Justice Secretary, to see whether there is a need for a statement on tagging and the wider issues.

[Jim McMahon (Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton) (Lab/Co-op)]

This week, another life was taken in a road traffic collision in Royton, leaving another family devastated. Our borough saw eight people killed in 2024, the highest number in a decade. Of those, six were pedestrians. There were more pedestrians killed in a single year than in the previous three years combined, and they included children who were simply walking along the pavement. For our town, this is a public health emergency. Although I welcome hotspot policing operations, the truth is that we need more patrols on the streets every day. Can we have a debate in Government time on traffic policing and reducing road deaths by dangerous driving?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

As my hon. Friend knows, we have announced the first road safety strategy in more than a decade, which includes a plan to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads by about two thirds by 2035. We have launched consultations on measures to tackle the causes of road collisions. I encourage my hon. Friend to look to gain a Westminster Hall debate, in which he can talk about not just safety on the road, but police presence.

[Peter Prinsley (Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket) (Lab)]

I know that some in this Chamber are sceptical about the role of the other place. However, after dinner last night, at about 11 o’clock, I took some visitors into the House of Lords Gallery, and was completely astonished to find a very lively debate taking place in a full Chamber. Will the Leader of the House join me in recognising the great diligence of our colleagues in scrutinising legislation? However, does he agree that the House of Lords must not obstruct the will of the elected Chamber?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

As my hon. Friend deftly points out, there is a fairly narrow tightrope to walk here. We need to ensure that the House of Lords gets its opportunity to scrutinise legislation, whatever it happens to be, in the way that it is constitutionally set up to; but there is a concern, shared by many Members of this House, about the effect that this scrutiny can have, especially when this place feels strongly about an issue. I think he is referring to the assisted dying Bill, which this House passed. As I have said before at business questions, I expect the upper House to take into consideration the fact that we, the elected House, supported it, and other measures.

[Greg Smith (Mid Buckinghamshire) (Con)]

Does the Leader of the House seriously think it is reasonable for the Government to announce a new framework that will have a profound effect on Mid Buckinghamshire—and indeed every constituency represented in this House, not least as regards food security—by written ministerial statement, rather than through an oral statement in the Chamber, which would allow scrutiny by Members from all parties? Will he reflect on that, particularly as Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Question Time continues to be just 40 minutes long, rather than a full hour? Will he ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to make a full oral statement in the House about the framework?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I will consider that request. The hon. Gentleman makes a point that others have made about DEFRA questions; given the circumstances in which we find ourselves, they ask whether we should look at how much time Departments get for questions. That can change over time. We should make sure that the length of departmental questions reflect the circumstances. There is also a balance to be struck when it comes to oral statements in the Chamber. There are important matters that this House has to debate, and how many oral statements are necessary is a bit of a moot question. There are ways that he can find out the answers that he wants, other than waiting for an oral statement from the Government; for example, he could ask for a Westminster Hall debate.

[Jas Athwal (Ilford South) (Lab)]

Many constituents have raised concerns about the restrictions on Palestinian worshippers accessing the al-Aqsa mosque—one of Islam’s holiest sites. They fear that the measures, which have been presented as security-related, may be limiting freedom of worship and increasing control over access. These concerns sit alongside the wider humanitarian situation in Gaza; reports indicate that hundreds have been killed and many more displaced since the ceasefire, though figures remain difficult to verify. Will the Leader of the House provide time for a ministerial update on the steps that the Government are taking to protect civilians, uphold access to places of worship and support progress towards a two-state solution?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The UK strongly condemns the Israeli Security Cabinet’s decision to expand Israeli control over the west bank. We have called on Israel to reverse this decision immediately, and strongly condemn the increase in settler violence against Palestinian civilians. The Government will continue to support the implementation of the Gaza peace plan and the two-state solution. I will bear in mind my hon. Friend’s request for a Minister to come to the House to give an update, but over the past few months, the Government have not been shy in bringing forward statements on this very important matter.

[Helen Morgan (North Shropshire) (LD)]

My constituents live along what would have been a route for construction traffic for High Speed 2, when it was proposed that it would continue up to Crewe. Because my constituents’ daughter has a life-limiting condition, the Select Committee requested that HS2 Ltd buy my constituents’ house, so that their daughter would not be adversely affected by dust and other pollution from the construction traffic. Since then, it is difficult to say that HS2 Ltd has behaved honourably in any way at all. Recently, it has reduced the amount that it is willing to pay my constituents, on the estate agent’s valuation, although that is expressly forbidden under the agreement that my constituents had with HS2 Ltd. I know that I am not the only MP whose constituents have been poorly treated by HS2 Ltd. Will the Leader of the House organise a meeting with me, the other MPs affected, and the relevant Minister, so that we can discuss how to properly hold HS2 Ltd to account on its commitments?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I will.

[Joe Powell (Kensington and Bayswater) (Lab)]

I do not know whether the Leader of the House’s preferred order is a single, a double, or even a treble, but I hope that he agrees with me that our pie and mash shops are an important part of this country’s heritage. Unfortunately, Cockney’s on Portobello Road has been threatened with a doubling of its rent, which would put the shop out of business. Over 3,500 of my constituents have signed my letter to the owner, asking for a reasonable negotiation. Will he join me in paying tribute to our pie and mash shops, and outline what support might be available from the Government to protect these important community institutions and enable them to survive on our high streets?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend: businesses like Cockney’s are a valuable part of England’s local and cultural heritage, and we must do all we can to support our traditional high street businesses. Although it might look as if mine is a double order, I confess that, in reality, it is not. The Government are committed to supporting high streets and permanently low tax rates for 750,000 retail and hospitality properties. These are matters of concern in other constituencies, too, and I encourage him to apply for a debate so that we can continue to enjoy pie and mash.

[Mr Speaker]

Does the Leader have his with liquor?

[Andrew Rosindell (Romford) (Reform)]

I have absolutely no doubt that the Leader of the House will have joined all of us in celebrating St Patrick’s day on Tuesday 17 March. I thank you, Mr Speaker, for hosting a St Patrick’s day celebration in Speaker’s House. However, why are the Ulster banner and the cross of St Patrick not flown from the Houses of Parliament? It is right that flags are flown for Wales, Scotland and England on patron saint days, but no flag is flown for Northern Ireland, so can we rectify that for next year? Will the Leader of the House ensure that we have a St Patrick’s day debate in the Chamber, as we usually do? It is right that we discuss British-Irish relations, particularly the negative effect of the Windsor framework, which has divided our United Kingdom and is a democratic outrage.

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I will raise the hon. Gentleman’s concerns about which flags are flown and when—he is a doughty campaigner on that matter. I join him in wishing everyone a happy St Patrick’s day, and hope that they partied and enjoyed it. I have to say, his loneliness on the Reform Benches suggests that whenever his new colleagues party, they are somewhere else and he is never invited. But he is always welcome with us.

[Anneliese Midgley (Knowsley) (Lab)]

Capita’s management of the civil service pension scheme—the latest in a string of failures—is a total disaster. My constituents are dealing with errors and delays, and are struggling to make ends meet, yet we are rewarding Capita by handing it another multimillion-pound contract. Can we have a debate about preventing repeated awards to failing contractors, and upholding Labour’s manifesto commitment to the biggest insourcing programme in a generation?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising that matter, which, as she will know, has been raised by other Members. The procurement process for that contract was undertaken prior to the recent issues with Capita and the civil service pension scheme. Our priority remains to ensure the continuity of service and value for money for the public. However, I acknowledge the Members’ concerns and will ensure that Ministers have heard my hon. Friend’s question.

[Robin Swann (South Antrim) (UUP)]

Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Co-operative Society relies on a supply of glass eels to meet its regulatory commitment to be a sustainable eel fishery, but the supply from GB rivers is now being blocked because of EU wildlife trade regulations. That issue has been raised with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs by Labour, Conservative and Lib Dem MPs. My concern is the sustainability of eel stocks in Lough Neagh, and our eel fishermen. Will the Leader of the House advise me on how best to get a common-sense, positive resolution to this issue from DEFRA?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The hon. Gentleman raises a matter of great importance to his constituency and that part of Northern Ireland. We had DEFRA questions this morning, but I will ensure that the relevant Minister is aware of the matter, and get the hon. Gentleman an update. Once he has that update, we will decide whether a statement or a debate is the best way forward.

[Mike Kane (Wythenshawe and Sale East) (Lab)]

I am sure that the whole House will agree that we could not do our jobs without the hard work and dedication of our staff. Will the Leader of the House join me in commending Mark Grayling, who has been with me for five years, who worked for other MPs before, and who has dedicated his working life to public service and good causes. He retires at the end of the month. The only blemish that we can find on Mark’s career is that—with respect to my constituency neighbour, my hon. Friend the Member for Altrincham and Sale West (Mr Rand)—he is a Norwich City fan. My team and I will miss Mark greatly.

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to congratulate Mark Grayling on his retirement. As we all know, the dedication of those who work behind the scenes is vital in supporting Members in their duties, and Mr Grayling’s long service exemplifies that commitment. I am delighted to join my hon. Friend in praising Mark’s excellent work and in wishing him a long and happy retirement.

[Robbie Moore (Keighley and Ilkley) (Con)]

I welcome the fact that Cavendish Street in Keighley is to be upgraded thanks to the investment secured through the previous Conservative Government’s towns fund, but among the brilliant local businesses the street is still home to several dodgy shops. They were stripped of their alcohol licences for illegal activity just last week, but they remain open and no convictions have followed. Will the Leader of the House grant a debate in Government time so that we can propose that when shops are found to be carrying out illegal activity, they can be shut down and replaced with proper, law-abiding, independent businesses?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

These matters are often better decided locally because they depend on local circumstances, but if the hon. Gentleman wants to go into greater detail and hear from the relevant Minister, in case the existing rules are not being applied properly, I encourage him to apply for a Westminster Hall debate.

[Ian Byrne (Liverpool West Derby) (Lab)]

Eight months after the Prime Minister promised a call for evidence on Gabe’s law following the tragic death of 15-year-old Gabriel Santer, we are still waiting. Meanwhile, preventable deaths continue in multi-storey car parks. Companies such as Q-Park, despite multiple incidents and now a state-wide suicide prevention strategy, are still being awarded NHS contracts. Does the Leader of the House agree that that is unacceptable, and will he commit to setting up a meeting with Gabe’s father, who leads the Gabe’s law campaign, and the relevant Ministers to discuss the prospect of the Government reviewing those contracts to ensure that all operators that apply for Government contracts meet consistent nationwide suicide prevention standards across all their sites?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to raise this very concerning matter. We want to prevent future tragedies and our thoughts remain with Gabe’s family and friends. I will ensure that my hon. Friend’s concerns are drawn to the attention of the relevant Minister, and the Minister will decide about a meeting with my hon. Friend and Gabe’s family so that the matter can be taken forward.

[Martin Vickers (Brigg and Immingham) (Con)]

For workers at Lindsey oil refinery in my constituency, the clock is ticking towards the end of this month, when they will receive their final redundancy notice. We had a useful meeting with the Energy Minister on site a couple of weeks ago, but I am sure that the workers would appreciate an update statement, in open session, where they can hear directly from the Minister about what progress has been made since that meeting.

[Sir Alan Campbell]

This is an important and concerning matter, and the hon. Gentleman has been a key campaigner in supporting not only his constituents but those in the wider region. I will draw the matter to the attention of the relevant Minister, but we have Energy Security and Net Zero questions next week. He may wish to hear from the Minister directly. If he wants to follow up with a meeting with Ministers and others, I will help him to arrange that.

[Mr Alex Barros-Curtis (Cardiff West) (Lab)]

In Cardiff West, four banks have now closed—HSBC, Halifax, Barclays and, as of June, Lloyds bank in Canton. With those cumulative closures, a large part of my constituency will be left with extremely limited access to face-to-face banking services. I have met Lloyds and I have written to Link to highlight my concerns about the lack of appropriate infrastructure to access cash and other banking activities, but I have been very disappointed in their responses. Will the Leader of the House allocate Government time for a debate on the legislation that supports the important work of Link, and whether its mandate should be widened to consider not only access to cash but all other relevant banking activities?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising that matter, which has been raised consistently by all parties across the House. The Government understand the importance of face-to-face banking services, which is why we are committed to the roll-out of at least 350 banking hubs, more than 210 of which are already open. I will ensure that the relevant Minister has heard what my hon. Friend has said. I encourage him to apply for an Adjournment or Westminster Hall debate, because I am sure that others will wish to join him and raise matters concerning their own constituencies.

[Cameron Thomas (Tewkesbury) (LD)]

I recently learned about the work of my constituent Claire Brown from Prestbury, who supports families with seriously ill children. She founded the charity Team Charlie, which raises funds to ensure that families with sick children can take holidays, after having raised £200,000 to fund brain cancer treatment for a boy called Charlie, who sadly passed away just over five years ago. Team Charlie enables families enduring immense emotional strain to take a break from hospital appointments and build precious memories. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating Claire and those who contribute to Team Charlie?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I absolutely will not only congratulate Claire on the work she is doing but thank her for it, because it is so important, and I congratulate Team Charlie on everything they do. As I have said on previous occasions, such work is the golden thread that runs through our communities—it is the best of our communities, and I thank Claire for that.

[David Burton-Sampson (Southend West and Leigh) (Lab)]

Southend recently held its second City Day to celebrate and recognise us officially becoming a city following the tragic murder of Sir David Amess. This year the celebration stretched right across the city, including to Leigh-on-Sea in my constituency—a town filled with heritage and culture, and which I am backing to become UK town of culture 2028. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating Councillors Matt Dent and Daniel Cowan, and the whole team at the city council, on their excellent work in delivering another brilliant City Day?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I need to be careful because I am travelling back to my constituency later today—or that is the plan—but I do join my hon. Friend in congratulating everyone who contributed to making City Day in Southend such a huge success. During these anniversaries, we are reminded of the important work that Sir David Amess did, and we remember him with respect and fondness. I wish all communities well in seeking to be the UK town of culture, including Leigh-on-Sea but also, I should say, North Shields in my own constituency.

[Ian Sollom (St Neots and Mid Cambridgeshire) (LD)]

Following on from that, St Neots is the fastest growing town in Cambridgeshire, and our community-led festival has attracted 35,000 people in recent years, demonstrating the extraordinary cultural energy of the town. With the UK town of culture expression of interest deadline falling on 31 March, will the Leader of the House find time when we return from recess for a debate on the competition, so that Members can champion fully their towns before the spring shortlist is announced, and the Government can hear exactly why St Neots should win?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The hon. Gentleman is doing his job, which is to stand up for his constituency. I will certainly look at his suggestion. There is a process under way, and I wish all the best to everyone seeking to get involved.

[Mary Glindon (Newcastle upon Tyne East and Wallsend) (Lab)]

A local pharmacy has contacted me regarding the need for a fast resolution to this year’s settlement negotiations. The pharmacy’s leadership tells me that their wage, pension and national insurance costs will increase substantially in April, and as a result they are planning to reduce opening hours and make staff redundant. The sector is set to play a crucial role in the shift from hospital to community, but it remains under enormous pressure. Will the Leader of the House ask the Minister for Care to update the House on when pharmacies can expect to see the new settlement and whether it will be ahead of the new financial year?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend and neighbour for raising that issue; she is a very strong voice for her constituency. The Government are committed to improving access to community pharmacies, and this week we published the neighbourhood health framework, but I will ensure that the relevant Minister is made aware of my hon. Friend’s specific concerns, particularly on the request for an update by the end of this financial year.

[Susan Murray (Mid Dunbartonshire) (LD)]

The development of the nuclear site at Wylfa in Wales is set to bring thousands of jobs and revitalise the local community. A similar site near my constituency would play an enormous role in the shift away from oil and gas towards energy independence and bringing costs down. Will the Leader of the House ask the Minister for Energy to meet me to discuss Great British Energy Nuclear’s assessment of Scotland’s nuclear opportunity?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I will do so, not least because, as the hon. Lady points out, wherever such developments are happening across the country, people are able to benefit from them. I know that my constituents were able to benefit from such a project, so I will seek to do as she asks.

[Ms Julie Minns (Carlisle) (Lab)]

Citadel Homes has issued demands for rent increases of over £200 a month, in tandem with no-fault eviction notices, to tenants in the Denton Holme area of my Carlisle constituency. Those affected have done nothing wrong. Will the Leader of the House ensure that in the final weeks before the abolition of no-fault evictions, Ministers do all that they can to ensure that landlords like Citadel Homes are held to account?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important matter. We are committed to improving the system for 11 million private renters. I am pleased that we are abolishing section 21 no-fault evictions, but as other hon. Members have said previously, there are concerns about what less scrupulous landlords may do in that period. I will raise the matter with the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, because I know that he is very much aware of MPs’ concerns.

[Claire Young (Thornbury and Yate) (LD)]

The conversation continues in the nuclear industry about whether Wylfa should have been reserved for gigawatt-scale nuclear, leaving Oldbury for small modular reactors. The US ambassador has spoken publicly in The Daily Telegraph about his discussions with the Government regarding Wylfa’s capacity for gigawatt-scale nuclear. I have tabled written questions on these representations, yet the Government will not acknowledge that those specific conversations even took place. What avenues can the Leader of the House recommend so that we can compel the Government to provide a proper answer?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The hon. Lady is right to raise concerns because it is right that MPs get the information that they need on behalf of their constituents. I will take this up with the relevant Minister and seek to get the answers that she wants.

[Euan Stainbank (Falkirk) (Lab)]

I understand the bus manufacturing expert panel held its final meeting this week, following Monday’s release of the 10-year zero emission bus order pipeline. The next five years are pivotal for the ZEB market to deliver the buses that we need. Especially crucial is further support for our British manufacturing sector, as 2025 saw foreign manufacturers obtain a majority market share of new registered zero emission buses for the first time. Will the Leader of the House encourage Transport Ministers to make a statement to Parliament on these important developments?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

We are committed to building a strong pipeline of future zero emission bus orders. The publication of the 10-year pipeline is a key milestone in this work and will boost British manufacturing. As a starter, I encourage my hon. Friend to raise his concerns at upcoming Transport questions on 26 March, but I will also raise with Ministers the prospect of updating the House in a statement, should that be necessary.

[Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)]

The Christian community in Pakistan continued to face grave injustices and targeted violence throughout February 2026. Families were displaced, livelihoods destroyed, and many continue to live in fear for their safety and freedom. These ongoing persecutions underscore the urgent need for both national and international attention to safeguard fundamental human rights and ensure justice for victims. Will the Leader of the House ask the Foreign Secretary to set out what representations the Government have made to the Government of Pakistan regarding these ongoing injustices? What steps have been taken to raise concerns about freedom of religion or belief in Pakistan?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

As ever, the hon. Gentleman raises a serious issue in the responsible way that we have become accustomed to. He knows the UK is committed to defending freedom of religion and belief for all. The persecution of Christians in Pakistan is unacceptable. Protecting freedom of religion or belief is central to the UK Government’s human rights engagement in Pakistan, and we are committed to working with communities and supporting programmes that promote greater tolerance and religious freedoms. I will draw his remarks this morning to the attention of the Foreign Secretary and make sure that he gets an update.

[Douglas McAllister (West Dunbartonshire) (Lab)]

West Dunbartonshire is one of eight local authorities in Scotland fortunate enough to receive the UK Labour Government’s Pride in Place immediate impact funding, with £1.5 million to be spent this year, making a huge difference to local facilities, community groups and organisations right across West Dunbartonshire. One such recipient is Holm Park community ground, which received £240,000 of funding to make improvements. As a result, Clydebank football club received bronze award status yesterday. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating Clydebank football club and wish the Bankies all the best for the rest of the season?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I certainly will. I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter. It is great news for everyone in Clydebank, and I understand the team are having a great season. It also demonstrates the importance of Pride in Place. This is not just about providing money to invest in communities; it is about communities making the key decisions for themselves. I hope that bronze status will help the club with its future plans and moving up divisions in the Scottish football league.

[Emma Foody (Cramlington and Killingworth) (Lab/Co-op)]

The issue of civil service pensions has been raised here repeatedly for months, yet Capita and MyCSP are still failing—now on commitments they made to put things right. My constituents continue to receive only holding responses, some since December, despite serious financial hardship and mental health concerns. Retirements remain on hold, lump-sum payments are not paid and self-set deadlines are missed. Will the Leader of the House arrange for an urgent statement on how the Government can hold Capita to account for its repeated failure and how we can ensure that civil servants are able to have dignity in their retirement?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter. As she acknowledges, it has been raised by many Members in the past few weeks and months as well as today. It is clear that these delays are unacceptable; this is not the service that people deserve. The Government acknowledge that resolving this issue is a matter of the utmost urgency. The Cabinet Office will continue to use all the available levers to hold Capita to account and ensure that it delivers on contractual service levels. Should she seek a debate on these matters, we already know that there are enough people in this room who have raised them to have a debate. She could then hear from a Minister about the progress being made.

[Ben Goldsborough (South Norfolk) (Lab)]

The constituents, businesses and residents of Wymondham are sick to the back teeth of not having a mobile phone signal for nearly a month now. The companies have fobbed us off with excuses and have given no information about this happening. Will the Leader of the House help me to secure a meeting with the relevant Minister so that I can raise my serious concerns about mobile phone companies not looking after their customers?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

As my hon. Friend will know, we are working with telecom companies to reduce poor mobile signal, particularly in rural areas. We have announced the shared rural network deal, which aims to deliver 4G coverage to 95% of all UK landmass by the end of 2025. I am very sorry to hear of what is happening in his constituency. Should he seek a meeting with the relevant Minister to vent his frustrations, I will help him to arrange that.

[Lorraine Beavers (Blackpool North and Fleetwood) (Lab)]

My constituents in Thornton-Cleveleys have been shocked to learn that their homes are at high risk of contamination due to the presence of the forever chemical PFOA. Will the Leader of the House make time for a debate on the need to ensure that polluters pay for the clean-ups needed in cases like this?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend raises a very concerning matter. We are working hard to minimise the harmful effects of forever chemicals. I will ensure that the relevant Minister hears her specific concerns and writes to her. Should she seek a meeting, I am happy to arrange that.

[Chris Bloore (Redditch) (Lab)]

I am sure the Leader of the House will remember with regret that he was unable to join me and Gareth Gates in switching on the Christmas lights in Redditch last year. It will not surprise him that Redditch has launched its own town of culture bid, especially given that it is the home of Royal Enfield and Bordesley Abbey and the birthplace of John Bonham from Led Zeppelin and Grammy-award winner Harry Styles. I know the Leader of the House has to stay neutral in this process, but if he cannot join me for a gluten-free toastie at the Boathouse café on Arrow Valley lake, will he join me in wishing Redditch all the best in its bid?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I have many regrets in my life, and that is definitely one of them! I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter. I will certainly consider a visit at some point in the future, if not when Gareth Gates is there. As I have said, I wish well all communities seeking to be a town of culture, including North Shields in my own constituency—I am remaining neutral in these matters.

[Anna Gelderd (South East Cornwall) (Lab)]

People in South East Cornwall regularly contact me with serious concerns about poor property management practices, such as high service charges and limited accountability from managing agents, including FirstPort. I am also hearing from residents who face new admin fees from housing providers, including £66 for every household just to issue an invoice for grass cutting. Will the Leader of the House ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to provide an update on progress towards improving accountability of managing agents and protecting my residents from unfair charges?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend raises a concerning and serious matter. Our draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill will end the feudal leasehold system. The measures it contains are not the final steps we intend to take regarding the regulation of managing agents, and we will set out further details in due course. However, I will make sure that the relevant Minister hears my hon. Friend’s concerns and gives her the update she seeks.

[Mr Connor Rand (Altrincham and Sale West) (Lab)]

I recently met my constituent Sam, who suffered life-changing injuries and lost a close friend when they were both hit by a silent falling tree in Sale. The tree that fell on Sam had a visual tree assessment months earlier and was not scheduled for major safety work. Sam wants Government action to mandate more thorough assessments of dangerous trees that go beyond purely visual assessments. Can the Leader of the House help me in seeking to take this campaign forward?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

This sounds like a heartbreaking and frustrating situation for my hon. Friend’s constituents, and we wish Sam well. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is updating the local authority tree and woodland strategy toolkit for 2026. The updated toolkit will include more detailed advice on health and safety and on liability, which will help councils to strengthen their approach. I will make sure that the relevant Minister hears my hon. Friend’s contribution today and provides him with an update on our plans.

[David Williams (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Lab)]

In Stoke-on-Trent, we have had to declare a heritage emergency, which really pains me. Across our towns, we have the most beautiful historic buildings, but they are sitting empty because the restoration costs are so high. That is not down to a lack of local will; it is the result of a funding gap that no one stakeholder can close alone. Will the Leader of the House please make time for a debate to look into how Government Departments, funders and partners can work together to unlock investment and breathe life back into our remarkable buildings before it is too late?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for bringing this matter to the House, because it is vital that we protect our heritage buildings. Earlier this year, we doubled our support for the heritage at risk fund to £15 million, but I know that many people across our communities are still frustrated. It is also a matter of interest across the House, so I urge my hon. Friend to seek a Westminster Hall debate—not only to allow others to share their concerns about their own constituencies, but to hear directly from Ministers.

[Paul Waugh (Rochdale) (Lab/Co-op)]

Last night, there was an emotional farewell for Councillor Ashley Dearnley, who attended his final full council meeting after an incredible 44 years of continuous service. As a Conservative, Ashley could be described as an endangered species within our borough, but his decency, courtesy and integrity and his hard work for Wardle, Shore and West Littleborough have won him widespread respect ever since he was first elected in 1982. Will the Leader of the House join me in thanking Ashley for his services to democracy and wish him well in his retirement?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I certainly join my hon. Friend in congratulating Ashley on his remarkable service—44 years of continuous service to his community is an incredible achievement. I thank him, and indeed other councillors who reach such a milestone, whichever party they represent. I understand that Ashley quoted our dear friend Jo Cox in his farewell speech last night, saying that we have

“more in common than that which divides us.”—[Official Report, 3 June 2015; Vol. 596, c. 675.]

That is a lesson that we should all take on board. I thank Ashley for his service and wish him a very happy and peaceful retirement.

[Johanna Baxter (Paisley and Renfrewshire South) (Lab)]

Last week, like many others, I watched in horror as the Union Corner building in Glasgow succumbed to a devastating fire, having stood as an iconic landmark of Glasgow for over 175 years. Thanks are due to firefighters such as crew commander John Banach, from Johnstone in my constituency, who worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, safeguarding lives and preventing further catastrophic damage to Glasgow Central station and the many historic buildings around it. Will the Leader of the House join me in paying tribute to John and the crews at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service for their remarkable and valiant efforts to contain this terrible incident?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I pay tribute to John and, indeed, his colleagues. I am sorry to hear of the devastating fire, but as my hon. Friend said, firefighters acted heroically to save Glasgow Central station and many of the historic buildings that surround it, and they contained the fire. I join her in paying tribute to John and all the crews at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service for their work. I also place on the record my congratulations and thanks to my hon. Friend, whose work on behalf of Ukraine’s children was this week recognised, quite rightly, by the Ukrainian Government.

[Josh Dean (Hertford and Stortford) (Lab)]

I share my residents’ anger that a Thames Water site has reportedly released over 900 hours of sewage into the River Stort, one of our precious local chalk streams, since the start of the year. I have written to Thames Water and the Environment Agency to raise my community’s concerns about the lack of urgency in tackling sewage discharge. Will the Leader of the House join me in calling on Thames Water to take urgent action to protect our precious local chalk streams, and will he help to facilitate a meeting with the relevant Minister to discuss this case in more detail?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The Government are absolutely committed to cleaning up our waterways and protecting chalk streams. We have passed the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025 and introduced the water White Paper, and the new water reform Bill will create the laws that we need to fundamentally change the system. I absolutely join my hon. Friend in calling on the Environment Agency and Thames Water to ensure that action is taken. I hope that they have heard his comments today. Should he seek a meeting with the relevant Minister to talk about these matters further, I will help him to facilitate it.

[Perran Moon (Camborne and Redruth) (Lab)]

Residents in my Camborne, Redruth and Hayle constituency rely on the postal service to stay connected with loved ones, especially given the paucity of digital connectivity across Cornwall. However, residents have been complaining to me that they have not received post for over a month, only to receive a backlog of post containing mail relating to medical appointments and financial information. Will the Leader of the House help me to secure a meeting with the relevant Minister, so that we can better deliver outcomes for my constituents beyond the stock Royal Mail template responses?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend is absolutely correct to say that the public rightly expect a well-run postal service. There was a Westminster Hall debate on Royal Mail’s performance yesterday, which shows how important these matters are to Members across the House. I know that Royal Mail listens closely to these sessions, and I hope that it has heard my hon. Friend’s concerns. I will certainly help him to secure a meeting with the relevant Minister.

[Bob Blackman]

On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. I just want to make sure that the record is corrected. Before I mentioned Peterborough temple, I sent an email out of courtesy to the office of the hon. Member for Peterborough (Andrew Pakes) this morning to inform him that I was intending to raise it. I was also extremely cautious to talk only about things that are in the public domain, because there is an ongoing court case and I did not want to refer to any further details.

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Judith Cummins)]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for his point of order, which is now on the record.

[Jesse Norman]

Further to that point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. I would be grateful if you could clarify that the House’s position is, and has always been, that we expect Members to show courtesy by informing other Members if they intend to mention them, not their constituency, and that in the normal course of business, Members of this House may always refer to places without any intention of discourtesy towards the Members of Parliament who represents them.

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his point of order. In exchanges during business questions and other proceedings in the Chamber, to which I think he refers, the context in which a question is asked is important. Where a question relates directly to a matter in another Member’s constituency, I encourage Members to show courtesy and let the Member know.