Barnett Formula

Debate between Lord Richard and Lord Newby

Tuesday 10th February 2015 Lords Chamber

[Lord Newby]

My Lords, in terms of what is happening on the ground in Wales, the level of expenditure which Holtham suggested would be appropriate if there was to be a fair allocation is actually being spent.

[Lord Richard (Lab)]

The Minister said that the Barnett formula is becoming less relevant to Scotland. That may be so, but does he recognise that it is deeply relevant to Wales? The committee of this House in relation to the Barnett formula, which I had the honour of chairing, was crystal clear: it is unfair. It should be changed, but the Government have set their face against that. I do not for the life of me understand why. It ought to be based on needs and not upon some mathematical formula being applied to a block grant system which has been out of date for 40 years.

[Lord Newby]

My Lords, I am well aware of the noble Lord’s views. The Secretary of State for Wales is considering the devolution settlement at the moment and is aiming to reach a cross-party agreement by 1 March.

Banking System

Debate between Lord Richard and Lord Newby

Monday 9th February 2015 Lords Chamber

[Lord Newby]

My Lords, I have not had any representations, and of course I would be very happy to meet a delegation.

[Lord Richard (Lab)]

I wonder whether the Minister feels encouraged by the strong and vocal level of support that he has had from the Benches behind him. One thing that has been very notable is that not a Conservative has got to his feet, and I wonder why. Would the noble Lord agree that for banks to become respected they have to earn that respect? Would he also agree that they have a very long way yet to go?

[Lord Newby]

Yes, my Lords, I would.

Northern Ireland: Corporation Tax

Debate between Lord Richard and Lord Newby

Monday 18th March 2013 Lords Chamber

[Lord Newby]

My Lords, a number of measures were announced in the Autumn Statement aimed at rebalancing, or rather promoting, the Northern Ireland economy, including another £132 million of capital expenditure, science and technology funding for the research partnership at Queen’s University and the slightly earlier decision to give the Northern Ireland Assembly decision-making powers over air passenger duty on long-haul flights.

[Lord Richard]

My Lords, as I understand it, the noble Lord, Lord Wigley, was asking the noble Lord to confirm that if this happens in Northern Ireland, the Government accept that it would happen in Wales, too. Can he confirm that?

[Lord Newby]

My Lords, that is something that we will confirm once we have a final decision in Northern Ireland.