(1 week, 5 days ago)
Commons Chamber
Baggy Shanker (Derby South) (Lab/Co-op)
ASG’s 100-strong Derby workforce show exactly why we are a proud city of makers, but the Jaguar Land Rover cyber-attack has left them on a cliff edge with no certainty of work. Does my right hon. Friend recognise the vital importance of companies such as ASG across the supply chain, and does he agree that we must do as much as we can to help prevent such cyber-attacks?
Yes, I do recognise that. Cyber-security is a key priority for the Government. We are working with the National Cyber Security Centre to provide businesses, including the companies my hon. Friend talks about, with the tools, advice and support they need to protect themselves against cyber-attacks. The Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill was introduced to Parliament yesterday. It will ensure that the UK is better protected to face down cyber-criminals and state-backed actors.
(3 weeks, 5 days ago)
Commons ChamberI am happy to join the hon. Gentleman in his cause, which he raises steadfastly. He is right to do so. The UK is committed to defending freedom of religion and belief for all across the globe, wherever that happens to be. No one should experience discrimination for exercising their right to freedom of religion or belief, and I encourage him—I have no need to because he will—to continue to raise these matters in future.
Baggy Shanker (Derby South) (Lab/Co-op)
As we approach Remembrance Day, I thank the volunteers at Chellaston women’s institute, Little Angels at St Andrews nursery, Greener Littleover in Blagreaves, Carlisle Against Crime, scout troops, marine training corps and many more. Will the Leader of the House join me in recognising their fantastic efforts to honour the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces?
Absolutely. I join my hon. Friend in recognising our armed forces, and I thank both past and present servicemen and women for their valiant work in keeping us safe. As I look around the Chamber, I see hon. Members proudly wearing their poppies, so I know that that sentiment is shared by Members from across the House.
(1 month, 1 week ago)
Commons ChamberDecisions on local resourcing of police stations are made by chief constables and elected police and crime commissioners. However, I have a huge amount of sympathy with what my hon. Friend is saying, because in my constituency—and, I am sure, in others—the importance of face-to-face contact with the police is crucial, not just for reporting incidents, but so that residents can feel safe and reassured. I urge him to call a debate on this important matter, both to highlight his own constituency concerns and to let others do the same.
Baggy Shanker (Derby South) (Lab/Co-op)
Earlier this year, I had the absolute pleasure of visiting the Needles pub in Alvaston, where Mel and Trevor have created a great atmosphere and a welcoming space for the local community, whether through pulling pints or raising vital funds for local charities. Does my right hon. Friend agree that we do not want to see pubs calling last orders for good, because it is pubs like the Needles that create such great atmospheres? Instead, we want to see them thrive in our communities.
Pubs are at the heart of our communities and often serve as vital community assets, and we certainly do not want them to close. We are working with the sector, including through the Hospitality Sector Council, to address the clear challenges faced. I urge my hon. Friend to raise his concerns at Business and Trade questions on 30 October.