Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Whittingdale and Emma Hardy

Thursday 22nd October 2026 Commons Chamber

[Emma Hardy]

The main problem that we have in the country is the serious organised crime behind some of these criminal activities, and that is exactly what we are going after through the new crackdown group, on which we are working with the National Crime Agency. We are escalating this issue and taking it extremely seriously because, as the hon. Gentleman said, we want to support legitimate businesses that are doing the right thing and get the criminals out of this industry.

[Sir John Whittingdale (Maldon) (Con)]

8. What steps her Department is taking to support the wine production industry.

--- Later in debate ---

[Emma Hardy]

Our Prime Minister is committed to introducing public control of the water sector. Just last month, we announced that we will remove Thatcher’s outdated cap on Government ownership of water companies. Later this year, our 10-year plan for Britain will set out plans for stronger public control over the water sector, making it work for people and places again.

[Sir John Whittingdale (Maldon) (Con)]

T3. As well as producing extremely fine wines, Maldon produces excellent oysters—I would be delighted to welcome any members of the ministerial team to visit. Will the Department do more to promote the shellfish industry? In particular, will it look to introduce a specific aquaculture qualification to try to attract more apprentices into the industry?