Business of the House

Debate between Alan Campbell and Martin Rhodes

Thursday 13th November 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

If the hon. Lady writes to me, I will look into what has happened in this situation and get an explanation. As she points out, her constituents have a right to know what will happen, and in a timely and organised fashion.

[Martin Rhodes (Glasgow North) (Lab)]

I was recently asked to visit a shop in my constituency that has suffered over 100 reported robberies since opening last November. These incidents not only involve theft, but threats and attacks on staff. This situation is unfolding against the backdrop of a significant reduction in police presence. The Glasgow division of Police Scotland has lost 218 local officers since 2017. Will the Leader of the House allocate time for a debate on the importance of policing in supporting and protecting local businesses?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The protecting of local businesses by the police is very important, not just in Scotland but everywhere else. Policing is a matter for the Scottish Government, but what my hon. Friend describes sounds like an untenable situation, particularly for the business to which he referred. Scotland has had the biggest funding settlement for a very long time, so I hope the Scottish Government have heard his words.

Business of the House

Debate between Alan Campbell and Martin Rhodes

Thursday 16th October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Digital inclusion is a priority for the Government. It is important that everyone has access so that they can engage in a modern digital society, whatever their circumstances happen to be. We have published the digital inclusion action plan to tackle digital exclusion and ensure that everyone is able to access the services they need.

[Martin Rhodes (Glasgow North) (Lab)]

During the recent Fairtrade Fortnight, many constituents contacted me with concerns about the need for good business practices. Will the Leader of the House schedule a debate in Government time on mandatory due diligence to protect against corporate harms and ensure that UK companies are held accountable for abuses in their global supply chains?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Businesses must conduct proper due diligence. We understand the concern of my hon. Friend’s constituents, because they are widely felt across the country. He may know that we have launched a review on responsible business conduct as part of our trade strategy, and he may wish to seek a Backbench Business or Adjournment debate to highlight these matters.