Business of the House

Bayo Alaba Excerpts

Thursday 12th November 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The UK Government condemn the attacks that took place on 6 November. We continually and regularly engage with the Nigerian Government, religious leaders and civil society to promote freedom of religion or belief. Through the UK-Nigeria security and defence partnership, we are working with Nigeria to tackle shared security challenges. We have the £38 million strengthening peace and resilience in Nigeria programme, which will allow local answers to the issues raised by the hon. Gentleman, but I will also draw his words to the attention of the Foreign Secretary.

[Mr Bayo Alaba (Southend East and Rochford) (Ind)]

Heritage buildings play a crucial role in shaping the character of the places where we live, which is why I am incredibly proud to have supported the revival of both Rochford’s Freight House and Southend’s Kursaal, recently securing a £540,000 grant to future-proof the latter’s iconic domed roof. Will the Leader of the House consider finding time for a debate on the role of heritage assets in regeneration so that hon. Members across the House can share examples from their communities?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

As my hon. Friend will know, through our £1.5 billion arts everywhere fund we are backing the protection of historic buildings and the revival of heritage assets for modern community use. I encourage him to apply for a Westminster Hall debate, because I am sure that examples from not just his constituency but others deserve to be heard.