Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate

Debate between Ben Goldsborough and Heidi Alexander

Monday 7th April 2025 Commons Chamber

[Heidi Alexander]

Officials in my Department are looking at this issue very closely. I would be interested in learning more from the hon. Member about the visit she made to the business in her constituency.

[Ben Goldsborough (South Norfolk) (Lab)]

South Norfolk is proudly home to Lotus Cars. This morning, I had a conversation with the management team, who welcomed the announcement. In our long-term plan for the car manufacturing industry, what action will the Government be taking for UK-based original equipment manufacturers to ensure that we have a good plan for the EV transition so that we are competitive in future markets?

[Heidi Alexander]

Everything that the Government are doing, and everything in the announcement, is about ensuring that our British businesses are competitive. I am pleased to hear that Lotus is pleased with what we have announced. I understand that other British brands such as McLaren, Bentley and Caterham are also pleased with the announcement, which is all about the Government’s commitment to driving growth and opportunity.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ben Goldsborough and Heidi Alexander

Thursday 13th February 2025 Commons Chamber

[Heidi Alexander]

I assure the hon. Gentleman that the consultation on establishing Great British Railways is coming soon, and I look forward to discussing it further with him. I am confident that by bringing together the management of track and train, we can strip out duplication in our railways, provide better value for the taxpayer and ensure that trains are turning up on time, with reliable and punctual services. That is what we will deliver.

[Ben Goldsborough (South Norfolk) (Lab)]

10. What steps her Department is taking to improve transport infrastructure in rural communities.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ben Goldsborough and Heidi Alexander

Tuesday 5th November 2024 Commons Chamber

[Heidi Alexander]

I understand why the hon. Lady raises that issue, but transcripts must be 100% accurate. They are legal documents, so “good enough” simply does not cut it. I will review what technology is available, and I am happy to keep her updated.

[Ben Goldsborough (South Norfolk) (Lab)]

A report from May 2022 showed that only nine of the 32 prison education institutions inspected were judged “good” or “outstanding” by Ofsted; additionally, less than 40% of prisoners took courses up to GCSE level. Does my hon. Friend agree that if we are to tackle rehabilitation, we must improve prison education across the estate?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ben Goldsborough and Heidi Alexander

Tuesday 10th September 2024 Commons Chamber

[Ben Goldsborough (South Norfolk) (Lab)]

A widow was prosecuted under the single justice procedure after her husband had passed away and the car tax expired. She was convicted over just £3.34, and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency sent the letter to the wrong address. Will the Minister meet me to discuss how we can reform the single justice procedure to make it more accountable and ensure that there is better oversight of the process?

[Heidi Alexander]

I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend. I am also very keen that we keep under review what more can be done to support vulnerable defendants going through the single justice procedure, and to improve oversight and regulation of the organisations using that procedure.