Oral Answers to Questions

Chris Webb Excerpts

Thursday 12th November 2026 Commons Chamber

[Ian Murray]

The right hon. Gentleman is exactly right: we cannot have growth in every postcode without connectivity in every postcode. I would be happy to meet him, but I gently remind him that when we do, it is his turn to buy the wine.

[Chris Webb (Blackpool South) (Lab)]

In response to Blackpool being shortlisted to be city of culture, Lynn Williams, the leader of Blackpool council, rightly said:

“We have a proud working-class culture and a wonderful history of entertainment, music and performance.”

Our bid to become the next city of culture for the UK is the right and only choice for the panel. It will allow us to celebrate our iconic history and shape our future, because Blackpool never settles for anything small. Will the Secretary of State support our ambition by supporting our much-loved heritage venues and my campaign for a new arena to create a year-round resort, showing Blackpool in a new light?

[Stephanie Peacock]

My hon. Friend is a huge advocate for his constituency. I have to stay neutral, but I am absolutely delighted to be visiting his area tomorrow as part of the shortlist process for the city of culture.