Business of the House

Debate between Alan Campbell and Alison Griffiths

Thursday 12th March 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend raises a very important matter, and the programme to which she refers has rightly caused concern among people and started a dialogue on these matters, which it is important that we have. The reality is that the previous Government should never have allowed the water sector to get into this state, because the public deserve better. As she says, our Water (Special Measures) Act will introduce tough enforcement measures, the most powerful in a decade. The water White Paper goes further, setting out clear powers for the new water regulator, and a new water reform Bill will create the laws that we need to fundamentally change the system. When that Bill is introduced, there will be plenty of time to debate this matter.

[Alison Griffiths (Bognor Regis and Littlehampton) (Con)]

The situation at Zachary Merton hospital in my constituency is causing deep concern locally. Services there were closed on what residents were told was a temporary basis, but that closure has now been made permanent. The evidence behind that decision has not been clearly set out. Communities rightly expect candour when decisions are taken about the future of local healthcare provision. Does the Leader of the House agree that there is a wider issue here about transparency and accountability for NHS service decisions, and will he consider granting a debate in Government time on the future of community healthcare provision?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I agree on the need for candour and openness for residents, who are obviously concerned about the matter to which the hon. Lady refers. Should she wish to make her case to the relevant Minister, I will make sure that she has that opportunity.

Business of the House

Debate between Alan Campbell and Alison Griffiths

Thursday 30th October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I am sure the whole House will join me in sending our condolences to the family and friends of Neil Whitehouse. The 10-year health plan will deliver a single patient record that will, following consultation, go live from 2028. We expect that to go towards resolving some of the issues the hon. Gentleman describes, but he may wish to look towards the Backbench Business Committee or an Adjournment debate to raise them, because I am sure colleagues across the House share his concerns.

[Alison Griffiths (Bognor Regis and Littlehampton) (Con)]

At Prime Minister’s questions yesterday, the Prime Minister offered scant reassurance to business owners trying to create jobs and growth in the face of higher taxes, costs and regulations. The Institute of Directors warns that:

“Business confidence has plumbed new depths”.

Ahead of Small Business Saturday on 6 December, will the Leader of the House provide Government time for a debate to celebrate and recognise the business owners working so hard and making great personal sacrifices to support jobs and services in our communities?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

We certainly do recognise the importance of small businesses in our constituencies, across communities and to the economy in general. That is why, when we brought forward our small business strategy, it was welcomed by many small businesses. The hon. Lady will have the opportunity, not only around Small Business Saturday but as the Budget approaches, to make those points to see how those matters might be better addressed.

Business of the House

Debate between Alan Campbell and Alison Griffiths

Thursday 11th September 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Yes, I will. Environmental matters are so important in constituencies, and the work of community groups is so important, because they are the heart of what makes a true community. I pay tribute not just to that group, but to my hon. Friend for his tireless work on their behalf.

[Alison Griffiths (Bognor Regis and Littlehampton) (Con)]

Two nights ago, a man in his 30s was stabbed in the centre of Bognor Regis, and that follows a fatal stabbing earlier this year. Will the Government bring forward a debate to consider how to make high streets safer and tackle the increasing prevalence of knife crime in small seaside towns such as Bognor Regis?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

We are taking action to tackle knife crime. In fact, we have given a commitment to halve it over the next decade and, I hope, go even further. The hon. Member said two things that are particularly relevant to me. One is that, as a former Home Office Minister, I am acutely aware of the importance of levels of knife crime. The other is that, as an MP for a seaside town, I know how important it is that they are safe places not just for people to visit, but for people to live. The Government are absolutely determined to bear down on violent knife crime, and I am sure there will be opportunities to discuss that in future legislation or should she choose to seek a debate on the matter.