Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential for QR code payment systems to reduce administrative costs associated with parking enforcement.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of introducing QR codes on parking penalty charge notices.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has had discussions with local authorities on increasing the use of QR codes for the payment of parking fines.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to encourage local authorities to adopt digital payment technologies that reduce administrative burdens for motorists and enforcement authorities.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department has issued guidance on the use of digital payment methods, including QR codes, for parking penalty charge notices.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of changes to Police Pension Scheme commutation factors introduced in 2026 on officers with confirmed retirement dates.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Home Office)

I refer the Hon. Member to the response given to UIN 5163 on the 3rd June 2026.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what data his Department holds on the number of GP referrals to secondary care that were subject to clinical triage before an outpatient appointment was booked in the periods 1 January to 31 March 2026 and 1 April to 30 June 2026.

Answered by Karin Smyth - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

Pre-referral services such as Advice and Guidance (A&G) are used by general practitioners (GPs) and other clinicians to request quick specialist advice to help decide on the right next steps for patient care, including whether a referral is needed. A&G requests are distinct from a GP referral for clinical treatment, whereby a GP has determined a patient requires secondary care. A&G does not change the clinical threshold for which a GP can refer a patient, which remains a matter of their clinical judgement.

A&G supports timely specialist input, helping to ensure patients receive appropriate and timely assessment, clear next steps, and care in the right setting, such as ongoing management in the community, without the need for unnecessary secondary care.

Data on the number of A&G requests processed is available at the following link:

https://www.england.nhs.uk/statistics/statistical-work-areas/outpatient-transformation/specialist-advice/

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what data his Department holds on the number of GP referrals to secondary care that, following clinical triage, did not proceed to a booked outpatient appointment and were instead returned or redirected to the referring GP in the periods 1 January to 31 March 2026 and 1 April to 30 June 2026.

Answered by Karin Smyth - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

Pre-referral services such as Advice and Guidance (A&G) are used by general practitioners (GPs) and other clinicians to request quick specialist advice to help decide on the right next steps for patient care, including whether a referral is needed. A&G requests are distinct from a GP referral for clinical treatment, whereby a GP has determined a patient requires secondary care. A&G does not change the clinical threshold for which a GP can refer a patient, which remains a matter of their clinical judgement.

A&G supports timely specialist input, helping to ensure patients receive appropriate and timely assessment, clear next steps, and care in the right setting, such as ongoing management in the community, without the need for unnecessary secondary care.

Data on the number of A&G requests processed is available at the following link:

https://www.england.nhs.uk/statistics/statistical-work-areas/outpatient-transformation/specialist-advice/

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions he has had with abattoirs and livestock producers in the South West on the use of non-stun slaughter and its implications for animal welfare.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

I have various meetings with representatives of the livestock sector to discuss a range of issues.

All animals must be stunned before slaughter to make them unconscious and insensible to pain. The only exception to this is when animals are slaughtered in accordance with religious rites, for the food of Muslims and Jews. The government would prefer all animals to be stunned before slaughter but respects the rights of Jews and Muslims to eat meat prepared in accordance with their religious beliefs.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the number of livestock slaughtered without prior stunning in abattoirs in the South West.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Food Standards Agency carries out a periodic Slaughter Sector Survey, which includes information on different stunning methods and the number of animals each method was used for, plus the number of animals slaughtered without prior stunning. The Survey covers slaughterhouses operating in England and Wales, but doesn’t present regional data separately.

During the week for the 2024 Survey, 97% of poultry and 85% of red meat animals were stunned before slaughter. The 2024 Survey Report can be accessed at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/farm-animals-slaughter-sector-survey-2024. The 2026 Survey will be published later this year.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent support her Department has provided to farmers affected by Bluetongue virus in West Dorset constituency.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) understand that this is an incredibly difficult time for livestock keepers who are dealing with the impacts of this disease.

Defra, working closely with APHA, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), The Pirbright Institute and industry partners, has taken a range of actions to support the sector.

This includes, ensuring farmers receive timely information and practical guidance, implementing and maintaining control measures based on the latest scientific and veterinary advice, and increasing testing capacity. Information has been shared through regular disease alerts, social media updates, weekly communications to livestock keepers and a programme of industry webinars. The Battle Bluetongue campaign, running with industry partners since early 2025, continues to urge farmers to work with their private vet to vaccinate their animals.

With vaccination, the only viable long-term control measure, Defra is also working closely with the VMD and other partners to monitor vaccine availability and support continuity of supply. Including by working with vaccine companies to make available additional stocks to farmers over the autumn.

England and Wales have both been BTV restricted zones since November 2025. This supports farmers by allowing free movement of animals within the zones, including to market where they are not showing clinical signs of disease.

This Government also works closely with industry, veterinary professionals and farming welfare organisations to ensure that affected farmers have access to the latest welfare support. Details can be found on Wellbeing support for farmers and through the Rural Payments Agency helpline on (03000 200 301).

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent support her Department has provided to farmers affected by Bluetongue virus.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) understand that this is an incredibly difficult time for livestock keepers who are dealing with the impacts of this disease.

Defra, working closely with APHA, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), The Pirbright Institute and industry partners, has taken a range of actions to support the sector.

This includes, ensuring farmers receive timely information and practical guidance, implementing and maintaining control measures based on the latest scientific and veterinary advice, and increasing testing capacity. Information has been shared through regular disease alerts, social media updates, weekly communications to livestock keepers and a programme of industry webinars. The Battle Bluetongue campaign, running with industry partners since early 2025, continues to urge farmers to work with their private vet to vaccinate their animals.

With vaccination, the only viable long-term control measure, Defra is also working closely with the VMD and other partners to monitor vaccine availability and support continuity of supply. Including by working with vaccine companies to make available additional stocks to farmers over the autumn.

England and Wales have both been BTV restricted zones since November 2025. This supports farmers by allowing free movement of animals within the zones, including to market where they are not showing clinical signs of disease.

This Government also works closely with industry, veterinary professionals and farming welfare organisations to ensure that affected farmers have access to the latest welfare support. Details can be found on Wellbeing support for farmers and through the Rural Payments Agency helpline on (03000 200 301).

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment has been made of out of hours environment agency staff to respond to blue tongue virus reports.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Responsibility for responding to reports of bluetongue virus rests with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Where required, the Environment Agency (EA) supports APHA on regulatory, waste management and pollution prevention issues, including ensuring that any waste arising from disease control activities is managed in accordance with the law. The EA maintains a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week incident response capability across England, enabling timely response to incidents that present serious or significant risks to the environment.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent steps her Department has taken to prevent symptoms of the Bluetongue virus, alongside vaccinations.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Defra and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) are working closely with manufacturers and other partners to monitor availability and support continuity of supply across Great Britain, including Oxfordshire. Defra and VMS have taken proactive regulatory action to expedite the import of authorised Northern Ireland and European Union-authorised BTV-3 vaccines, helping to increase vaccine availability in Great Britain. As a result, several million additional vaccines have been made available through August and into autumn.

The industry-led Battle Bluetongue campaign, supported by the UK Government, has also been encouraging vaccine uptake and raising awareness of the benefits of vaccination since its launch in 2025.

Vaccination remains the most effective and viable long-term control measure against bluetongue. Defra continues to urge keepers of susceptible animals to speak to their private veterinarian about vaccination and to place orders as early as possible.

Alongside vaccination, Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency support disease surveillance, testing, prompt reporting of suspected cases, control measures designed to limit the spread of infection and clear guidance for livestock keepers to help reduce the spread and impact of the disease.

Farmers do not need to wait for test results to confirm BTV before accessing veterinary support for animals with disease symptoms.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of the response time of authorities to reports of blue tongue virus.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Defra and the Animal Plant Health Agency (APHA) keep veterinary and operational arrangements under continual review as part of its response to the current bluetongue outbreak. Suspected cases of bluetongue are investigated as part of established disease control procedures, and resources are deployed in line with operational priorities and disease risk. This Government continues to monitor the effectiveness of its response to the current outbreak and to work closely with industry and veterinary stakeholders to support disease surveillance and control activities.

The department recognises the pressures that the increased number of reports has placed on veterinary services and continue to monitor the situation closely. Farmers should also be reassured that expanded testing capacity is in place, with APHA operationally supporting The Pirbright Institute to deliver bluetongue testing.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of veterinary capacity to respond to blue tongue virus reports.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Defra and the Animal Plant Health Agency (APHA) keep veterinary and operational arrangements under continual review as part of its response to the current bluetongue outbreak. Suspected cases of bluetongue are investigated as part of established disease control procedures, and resources are deployed in line with operational priorities and disease risk. This Government continues to monitor the effectiveness of its response to the current outbreak and to work closely with industry and veterinary stakeholders to support disease surveillance and control activities.

The department recognises the pressures that the increased number of reports has placed on veterinary services and continue to monitor the situation closely. Farmers should also be reassured that expanded testing capacity is in place, with APHA operationally supporting The Pirbright Institute to deliver bluetongue testing.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether she has had discussions with representatives of the farming sector on the level of funding available under replacement farm support schemes.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Defra regularly and actively engages with representatives from the farming industry through regular meetings and discussions, ensuring their views are heard, their concerns are understood, and their feedback considered.

In particular, Defra engaged over 30 stakeholder organisations on the policy design of the SFI26 offer.

This engagement included farmer representatives such as the National Farmers Union and the Tenant Farmers Association, ensuring the views of smaller farm businesses were fully considered.

Defra utilised the insight gathered from this engagement in developing the SFI26 offer, Window 1 of which was open 30 June – 28 August 2026 and Window 2 of which opens later this month.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has considered establishing a national database of community transport bus routes and services in England.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport is primarily operated by charities. In England, Wales and Scotland, these organisations can run not-for-profit community services using Transport Act Section 19 and Section 22 permits, so they do not need a Public Service Vehicle Operator’s licence. In Northern Ireland operators can operate under Section 10B permits.

Section 19 permits can be issued by Designated Bodies listed in The Transport Act 1985 Section 19 Minibus (Designated Bodies) Order 1987. The Office of the Traffic Commissioner and Community Transport Association issue the greatest number of permits. Designated Bodies may hold their own records of the permits they issue.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of concessionary bus pass reimbursement rates on the viability of community transport services in West Dorset.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government recognises the important role that community transport services play in providing access to local services and opportunities, particularly in rural areas, including West Dorset.

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) applies on eligible local bus services as defined in concessionary travel legislation. Certain community transport services may be eligible for the scheme where they meet the relevant statutory criteria. Under the ENCTS, operators are reimbursed by Travel Concession Authorities on a ‘no better, no worse off’ basis for concessionary travel, so that operators should be left financially neutral as a result of carrying concessionary pass holders.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what the average time taken by Ofsted to determine applications for registration as a supported accommodation provider has been since October 2023.

Answered by Josh MacAlister - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

These are matters for His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver. I have asked him to write to the hon. Member, and a copy of his reply will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, how many applications for registration as a supported accommodation provider are awaiting allocation to an Ofsted inspector.

Answered by Josh MacAlister - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

These are matters for His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver. I have asked him to write to the hon. Member, and a copy of his reply will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether she plans to introduce separate market (a) mechanisms and (b) quotas for engineered greenhouse gas removals within the UK Emissions Trading Scheme.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In its July 2025 Authority Response, the UK Emissions Trading Scheme Authority set out the market design for integrating engineered greenhouse gas removals into the UK ETS. For initial integration, it set out that one fewer emissions allowance will be auctioned for every removal allowance issued, maintaining total allowance supply and the scheme’s ambition. Further technical design will be consulted on in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of council tax premium rules on owners of fire-damaged properties in West Dorset.

Answered by Jim McMahon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no specific council tax exemption for properties damaged by fire. However, where a property needs a significant amount of work in order to be inhabited again, it may be removed from the council tax valuation list by the Valuation Office (VO). It is for the VO to determine whether a property should remain on the valuation list in individual cases. No council tax is payable while a property is removed from the list.

Councils have discretionary powers to apply a council tax premium on dwellings which are no one’s sole or main residence and substantially furnished (second homes) and dwellings which have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for 1 or more years (long-term empty homes). The premiums are not mandatory, and it is for councils to decide whether to implement the premiums. Where a dwelling requires or is undergoing major repairs it may be excepted from the long-term empty homes premium for up to 12 months.

Councils have the power to provide their own local exceptions or provide discretionary discounts where they consider this appropriate. The government encourages councils to make use of their local expertise to consider where a premium should not be charged. Households may wish to contact their council directly about this.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether local authorities in England are able to charge a second homes council tax premium on fire-damaged properties where furniture remains solely because access is restricted for safety reasons.

Answered by Jim McMahon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no specific council tax exemption for properties damaged by fire. However, where a property needs a significant amount of work in order to be inhabited again, it may be removed from the council tax valuation list by the Valuation Office (VO). It is for the VO to determine whether a property should remain on the valuation list in individual cases. No council tax is payable while a property is removed from the list.

Councils have discretionary powers to apply a council tax premium on dwellings which are no one’s sole or main residence and substantially furnished (second homes) and dwellings which have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for 1 or more years (long-term empty homes). The premiums are not mandatory, and it is for councils to decide whether to implement the premiums. Where a dwelling requires or is undergoing major repairs it may be excepted from the long-term empty homes premium for up to 12 months.

Councils have the power to provide their own local exceptions or provide discretionary discounts where they consider this appropriate. The government encourages councils to make use of their local expertise to consider where a premium should not be charged. Households may wish to contact their council directly about this.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of applying a second homes council tax premium to owners of fire-damaged properties awaiting repair or remediation.

Answered by Jim McMahon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no specific council tax exemption for properties damaged by fire. However, where a property needs a significant amount of work in order to be inhabited again, it may be removed from the council tax valuation list by the Valuation Office (VO). It is for the VO to determine whether a property should remain on the valuation list in individual cases. No council tax is payable while a property is removed from the list.

Councils have discretionary powers to apply a council tax premium on dwellings which are no one’s sole or main residence and substantially furnished (second homes) and dwellings which have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for 1 or more years (long-term empty homes). The premiums are not mandatory, and it is for councils to decide whether to implement the premiums. Where a dwelling requires or is undergoing major repairs it may be excepted from the long-term empty homes premium for up to 12 months.

Councils have the power to provide their own local exceptions or provide discretionary discounts where they consider this appropriate. The government encourages councils to make use of their local expertise to consider where a premium should not be charged. Households may wish to contact their council directly about this.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what guidance her Department has issued to local authorities on the application of council tax premiums to uninhabitable residential properties.

Answered by Jim McMahon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no specific council tax exemption for properties damaged by fire. However, where a property needs a significant amount of work in order to be inhabited again, it may be removed from the council tax valuation list by the Valuation Office (VO). It is for the VO to determine whether a property should remain on the valuation list in individual cases. No council tax is payable while a property is removed from the list.

Councils have discretionary powers to apply a council tax premium on dwellings which are no one’s sole or main residence and substantially furnished (second homes) and dwellings which have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for 1 or more years (long-term empty homes). The premiums are not mandatory, and it is for councils to decide whether to implement the premiums. Where a dwelling requires or is undergoing major repairs it may be excepted from the long-term empty homes premium for up to 12 months.

Councils have the power to provide their own local exceptions or provide discretionary discounts where they consider this appropriate. The government encourages councils to make use of their local expertise to consider where a premium should not be charged. Households may wish to contact their council directly about this.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has had discussions with Dorset Council on the application of second homes council tax premiums to uninhabitable fire-damaged properties in West Dorset.

Answered by Jim McMahon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no specific council tax exemption for properties damaged by fire. However, where a property needs a significant amount of work in order to be inhabited again, it may be removed from the council tax valuation list by the Valuation Office (VO). It is for the VO to determine whether a property should remain on the valuation list in individual cases. No council tax is payable while a property is removed from the list.

Councils have discretionary powers to apply a council tax premium on dwellings which are no one’s sole or main residence and substantially furnished (second homes) and dwellings which have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for 1 or more years (long-term empty homes). The premiums are not mandatory, and it is for councils to decide whether to implement the premiums. Where a dwelling requires or is undergoing major repairs it may be excepted from the long-term empty homes premium for up to 12 months.

Councils have the power to provide their own local exceptions or provide discretionary discounts where they consider this appropriate. The government encourages councils to make use of their local expertise to consider where a premium should not be charged. Households may wish to contact their council directly about this.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the application of council tax premiums to fire-damaged residential properties that cannot be occupied on the owners of those properties.

Answered by Jim McMahon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no specific council tax exemption for properties damaged by fire. However, where a property needs a significant amount of work in order to be inhabited again, it may be removed from the council tax valuation list by the Valuation Office (VO). It is for the VO to determine whether a property should remain on the valuation list in individual cases. No council tax is payable while a property is removed from the list.

Councils have discretionary powers to apply a council tax premium on dwellings which are no one’s sole or main residence and substantially furnished (second homes) and dwellings which have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for 1 or more years (long-term empty homes). The premiums are not mandatory, and it is for councils to decide whether to implement the premiums. Where a dwelling requires or is undergoing major repairs it may be excepted from the long-term empty homes premium for up to 12 months.

Councils have the power to provide their own local exceptions or provide discretionary discounts where they consider this appropriate. The government encourages councils to make use of their local expertise to consider where a premium should not be charged. Households may wish to contact their council directly about this.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of providing concessionary bus passes on community transport operators in West Dorset.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) applies on eligible local bus services as defined in concessionary travel legislation. Certain community transport services may be eligible for the scheme where they meet the relevant statutory criteria.

The ENCTS currently costs around £795 million annually in reimbursement costs to operators. Any change to the statutory concession or to the services eligible for reimbursement would need to be carefully considered for their impact on the scheme’s financial sustainability.

Local authorities in England may also provide discretionary concessions in addition to the statutory ENCTS entitlement, including on community transport services that are not eligible for the ENCTS. Any such concessions are determined and funded locally, taking account of local needs and priorities.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what funding her Department provides to support community transport operators in West Dorset in delivering concessionary bus travel.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

This Government is investing in bus services long-term and has confirmed over £3 billion from 2026/27 to support local leaders and bus operators across the country to improve bus services for millions of passengers over the remainder of the Spending Review period.

This includes multi-year allocations for local authorities under the Local Authority Bus Grant (LABG) totalling nearly £700 million per year. Dorset Council will be allocated £12.2 million under the LABG from 2026/27 to 2028/29, in addition to the £3.8 million they received in 2025/26.

Local authorities have discretion over how they use LABG funding to improve services and deliver better services for passengers, which could include support for community transport services and discretionary concessionary travel arrangements where local authorities consider these appropriate.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the benefits of creating a publicly accessible register of community transport operators and community bus routes in England.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport is primarily operated by charities. In England, Wales and Scotland, these organisations can run not-for-profit community services using Transport Act Section 19 and Section 22 permits, so they do not need a Public Service Vehicle Operator’s licence. In Northern Ireland operators can operate under Section 10B permits.

Section 19 permits can be issued by Designated Bodies listed in The Transport Act 1985 Section 19 Minibus (Designated Bodies) Order 1987. The Office of the Traffic Commissioner and Community Transport Association issue the greatest number of permits. Designated Bodies may hold their own records of the permits they issue.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with Network Rail on measures to reduce disruption caused by soil moisture deficit on railway lines serving West Dorset.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Ministers and officials engage regularly with Southwestern Railway and Network Rail on the performance and resilience of the rail network, including the impacts of extreme weather. Following recent soil moisture deficit conditions affecting the West of England Line, Southwestern Railway and Network Rail have implemented a range of measures to improve resilience, including monitoring more than 30 at-risk sites, installing 5,500 tonnes of new ballast, carrying out vegetation management, enhanced track monitoring and inspection programmes, as well as developing a long-term plan to modernise the West of England line.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what long-term measures his Department is taking to improve the resilience of rural landscapes to wildfires, particularly in areas and West Dorset.

Answered by Jenny Riddell-Carpenter - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government is delivering the change to land use needed to increase our resilience to the impacts of climate change. This includes restoring the peatlands, wetlands and woodlands that store carbon and reduce wildfire risk to farmland, homes, infrastructure and nature.

Land use and land management changes can reduce the likelihood of severe or sustained wildfire while also delivering wider benefits for biodiversity, carbon storage, water regulation, and the condition and recovery of the habitats and landscapes they are intended to protect. The Land Use Framework, published earlier this year, set out how we are developing policy to incentivise and spatially target land uses with these multiple benefits.

The Nature for Climate Peatland Grant Scheme has supported the restoration of peatlands across 16 sites in Dorset since 2023, including across the Dorset Heaths and mires.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of proposed changes to the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 on the viability of the stained-glass conservation sector.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently consulted on proposed changes to the lead in blood exposure levels in the Control of Lead at Work Regulations (CLAW) 2002. The consultation has allowed HSE to gain more detailed evidence to help better understand the impact of the proposed levels in the working environment. This includes considering the impact on different workers and the operability of any proposed changes.

HSE is currently analysing the consultation responses prior to making any further recommendations for reform. Since early 2025, HSE has been engaging with the heritage sector about possible changes to CLAW and are continuing to engage with a range of businesses to inform this work.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether he has considered introducing restrictions on the sale or use of disposable barbecues during periods of high wildfire risk.

Answered by Jenny Riddell-Carpenter - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Retailers have already been informed that disposable barbecues must be removed from sale immediately. The temporary measure will remain under review but will stay in place while the heightened wildfire risk continues.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of disposable barbecues on wildfire risk in West Dorset.

Answered by Jenny Riddell-Carpenter - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Retailers have already been informed that disposable barbecues must be removed from sale immediately. The temporary measure will remain under review but will stay in place while the heightened wildfire risk continues.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what discussions he has had with representatives of the heritage and conservation sectors on the potential impact of proposed changes to the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 on small businesses and skilled crafts.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently consulted on proposed changes to the lead in blood exposure levels in the Control of Lead at Work Regulations (CLAW) 2002. The consultation has allowed HSE to gain more detailed evidence to help better understand the impact of the proposed levels in the working environment. This includes considering the impact on different workers and the operability of any proposed changes.

HSE is currently analysing the consultation responses prior to making any further recommendations for reform. Since early 2025, HSE has been engaging with the heritage sector about possible changes to CLAW and are continuing to engage with a range of businesses to inform this work.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of proposed changes to the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 on the conservation of historic churches and listed buildings in West Dorset.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently consulted on proposed changes to the lead in blood exposure levels in the Control of Lead at Work Regulations (CLAW) 2002. The consultation has allowed HSE to gain more detailed evidence to help better understand the impact of the proposed levels in the working environment. This includes considering the impact on different workers and the operability of any proposed changes.

HSE is currently analysing the consultation responses prior to making any further recommendations for reform. Since early 2025, HSE has been engaging with the heritage sector about possible changes to CLAW and are continuing to engage with a range of businesses to inform this work.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of proposed changes to the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 on the conservation and maintenance of historic buildings and places of worship.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently consulted on proposed changes to the lead in blood exposure levels in the Control of Lead at Work Regulations (CLAW) 2002. The consultation has allowed HSE to gain more detailed evidence to help better understand the impact of the proposed levels in the working environment. This includes considering the impact on different workers and the operability of any proposed changes.

HSE is currently analysing the consultation responses prior to making any further recommendations for reform. Since early 2025, HSE has been engaging with the heritage sector about possible changes to CLAW and are continuing to engage with a range of businesses to inform this work.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether the Health and Safety Executive has assessed the potential impact of proposed changes to the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 on employment opportunities for women in lead-dependent heritage crafts.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently consulted on proposed changes to the lead in blood exposure levels in the Control of Lead at Work Regulations (CLAW) 2002. The consultation has allowed HSE to gain more detailed evidence to help better understand the impact of the proposed levels in the working environment. This includes considering the impact on different workers and the operability of any proposed changes.

HSE is currently analysing the consultation responses prior to making any further recommendations for reform. Since early 2025, HSE has been engaging with the heritage sector about possible changes to CLAW and are continuing to engage with a range of businesses to inform this work.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of proposed changes to the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 on heritage craft businesses in West Dorset.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently consulted on proposed changes to the lead in blood exposure levels in the Control of Lead at Work Regulations (CLAW) 2002. The consultation has allowed HSE to gain more detailed evidence to help better understand the impact of the proposed levels in the working environment. This includes considering the impact on different workers and the operability of any proposed changes.

HSE is currently analysing the consultation responses prior to making any further recommendations for reform. Since early 2025, HSE has been engaging with the heritage sector about possible changes to CLAW and are continuing to engage with a range of businesses to inform this work.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether she has made an assessment of the effectiveness of rural engineering businesses in West Dorset in supporting farming, food production and rural infrastructure, and what steps she is taking to ensure Government policy supports rural engineering businesses.

Answered by Jenny Riddell-Carpenter - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government recognises the value of rural engineering businesses in supporting farming, food production and rural communities. Through the Small Business Plan, the Government is helping businesses to start, scale and grow by improving access to support and finance, tackling late payments and creating more opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises through public procurement.

The Government is also investing in skills development through the modern Industrial Strategy, including investment in further education, technical training and apprenticeships, to help ensure businesses in rural areas can access the workforce they need.

The Government has also introduced a £4.3 billion business rates support package following the 2026 revaluation to help protect businesses from significant increases in their bills.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of compulsory Office for National Statistics surveys on small engineering businesses in West Dorset.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (Cabinet Office) (Jointly with HM Treasury)

HM Treasury has not conducted an assessment of the impact of ONS business surveys and has not discussed reducing the frequency of compulsory business surveys with the UK Statistics Authority. The Treasury recognises that surveys place a burden on businesses that respond, but note that timely responses from a representative sample of firms are essential to producing the high-quality data that underpin statistics on GDP, employment, wages, inflation and trade. These statistics are crucial to monitoring the UK economy and informing important decisions across government and the private sector. The independent ONS is responsible for producing these statistics.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether he has had discussions with the UK Statistics Authority on reducing the frequency of compulsory Office for National Statistics surveys for small businesses.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (Cabinet Office) (Jointly with HM Treasury)

HM Treasury has not conducted an assessment of the impact of ONS business surveys and has not discussed reducing the frequency of compulsory business surveys with the UK Statistics Authority. The Treasury recognises that surveys place a burden on businesses that respond, but note that timely responses from a representative sample of firms are essential to producing the high-quality data that underpin statistics on GDP, employment, wages, inflation and trade. These statistics are crucial to monitoring the UK economy and informing important decisions across government and the private sector. The independent ONS is responsible for producing these statistics.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether she is considering further restrictions on activities which increase the risk of wildfires, including the use of disposable barbecues in high-risk areas.

Answered by Jenny Riddell-Carpenter - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Fire and rescue services have been responding to an exceptionally challenging period of wildfire activity, with multiple significant incidents being managed simultaneously across England and Wales.

Measures have been taken to reduce wildfire risk including the ban on the sale of disposable barbecues introduced on 14 August as well as the use of the emergency alert system within parts of the UK. The Secretary of State for MHCLG also wrote to local authorities across England reminding them of the powers available to restrict activities that could increase fire risk, including the use of Public Spaces Protection Orders to limit barbecues, campfires and other forms of open fire in vulnerable areas.

This sits alongside wider measures including advice being made more visible through, including social media during high-risk periods, the Cabinet Office Prepare website, the Fire Kills campaign and StayWise, the NFCC-led education platform.

The Government will continue to consider whether further measures are needed, including through the Wildfire Summit announced by the Prime Minister, taking place in autumn.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the level of need for the UK to increase its access to specialist firefighting aircraft for tackling large-scale wildfires.

Answered by Florence Eshalomi - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Fire and rescue services have been responding to an exceptionally challenging period of wildfire activity, with multiple significant incidents being managed simultaneously across England and Wales.

Fire and rescue services, working through Local Resilience Forums, are responsible for planning and responding locally. Where aircraft are needed, that is usually arranged locally with commercial providers. We have made emergency funding available to help services in England deploy aerial firefighting support where needed.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has recently announced a £97 million investment to upgrade National Resilience assets and equipment. Part of this funding includes a pilot for a national wildfire response capability with specialist firefighters, equipment and training, with teams positioned across England to support Fire and Rescue Services during major incidents. Ministers are convening a summit in the autumn to consider further measures to strengthen capabilities in which aerial capabilities will be discussed.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment her Department has made of the preparedness of fire and rescue services for an anticipated increase in wildfires and other extreme weather events.

Answered by Florence Eshalomi - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Fire and rescue services have responded to an exceptionally challenging period of wildfire activity this summer, with multiple significant incidents being managed simultaneously across England and Wales, peaking in July and August.

The Government continues to work closely with the National Chiefs Council and fire and rescue services to assess lessons from recent incidents and strengthen preparedness, including through a Wildfire Summit in the Autmn.

MHCLG has recently announced a £97 million investment to upgrade National Resilience assets and equipment. Part of this funding includes a pilot of a national wildfire response capability with specialist firefighters, equipment and training positioned across England to support Fire and Rescue Services during major incidents.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what support is available to leaseholders in West Dorset facing costs associated with building safety remediation and compliance following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Answered by Florence Eshalomi - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

We recognise concerns about building safety costs and are clear that costs should be fair, transparent and represent value for money.

Protections are in place to limit the costs of remediating historical building safety defects. Cladding remediation costs are met by Government funding programmes or developers, while further protections, including the Developer Remediation Contract, contribution caps for certain leaseholders, and Remediation Contribution Orders, help ensure leaseholders are protected from remediation costs.

Building owners and accountable persons are responsible for managing building safety risks, demonstrating to the Regulator how risks are being managed, and taking steps to minimise unnecessary compliance costs.

We remain committed to reviewing how leaseholders can be better protected from costs.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the impact of post-Grenfell building safety costs on leaseholders in West Dorset.

Answered by Florence Eshalomi - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

We recognise concerns about building safety costs and are clear that costs should be fair, transparent and represent value for money.

Protections are in place to limit the costs of remediating historical building safety defects. Cladding remediation costs are met by Government funding programmes or developers, while further protections, including the Developer Remediation Contract, contribution caps for certain leaseholders, and Remediation Contribution Orders, help ensure leaseholders are protected from remediation costs.

Building owners and accountable persons are responsible for managing building safety risks, demonstrating to the Regulator how risks are being managed, and taking steps to minimise unnecessary compliance costs.

We remain committed to reviewing how leaseholders can be better protected from costs.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what proportion of the annual £3.8 million available through the Bus Service Operators Grant for community transport operators was allocated in the most recent financial year.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) is demand led, and so if eligible community transport operators in rural areas submit claims, these claims, if approved, are paid by the Department.

The department budgeted for £2.365m in 2024/25 and £3.8m in 2025/26 for community transport operators, within the BSOG budget. Because community transport operators do not necessarily operate within local authority boundaries, and BSOG is no longer issued at a local level, it is not possible to set out amounts of BSOG received by community transport operators in West Dorset in the last five years.

Dorset Council will be allocated £12.2 million under the LABG from 2026/27 to 2028/29. Funding allocated to local authorities to improve services can be used in whichever way they wish to deliver better services for passengers, including expanding services and improving reliability. In previous years, the budget for community transport operators was not fully drawn down.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of whether the current level of Bus Service Operators Grant funding for community transport operators is sufficient to meet demand in rural areas.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) is demand led, and so if eligible community transport operators in rural areas submit claims, these claims, if approved, are paid by the Department.

The department budgeted for £2.365m in 2024/25 and £3.8m in 2025/26 for community transport operators, within the BSOG budget. Because community transport operators do not necessarily operate within local authority boundaries, and BSOG is no longer issued at a local level, it is not possible to set out amounts of BSOG received by community transport operators in West Dorset in the last five years.

Dorset Council will be allocated £12.2 million under the LABG from 2026/27 to 2028/29. Funding allocated to local authorities to improve services can be used in whichever way they wish to deliver better services for passengers, including expanding services and improving reliability. In previous years, the budget for community transport operators was not fully drawn down.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how much funding from the Bus Service Operators Grant has been awarded to community transport operators serving West Dorset in each of the last five years.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) is demand led, and so if eligible community transport operators in rural areas submit claims, these claims, if approved, are paid by the Department.

The department budgeted for £2.365m in 2024/25 and £3.8m in 2025/26 for community transport operators, within the BSOG budget. Because community transport operators do not necessarily operate within local authority boundaries, and BSOG is no longer issued at a local level, it is not possible to set out amounts of BSOG received by community transport operators in West Dorset in the last five years.

Dorset Council will be allocated £12.2 million under the LABG from 2026/27 to 2028/29. Funding allocated to local authorities to improve services can be used in whichever way they wish to deliver better services for passengers, including expanding services and improving reliability. In previous years, the budget for community transport operators was not fully drawn down.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how much funding from the Bus Service Operators Grant has been awarded to community transport operators in England in each of the last five years.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) is demand led, and so if eligible community transport operators in rural areas submit claims, these claims, if approved, are paid by the Department.

The department budgeted for £2.365m in 2024/25 and £3.8m in 2025/26 for community transport operators, within the BSOG budget. Because community transport operators do not necessarily operate within local authority boundaries, and BSOG is no longer issued at a local level, it is not possible to set out amounts of BSOG received by community transport operators in West Dorset in the last five years.

Dorset Council will be allocated £12.2 million under the LABG from 2026/27 to 2028/29. Funding allocated to local authorities to improve services can be used in whichever way they wish to deliver better services for passengers, including expanding services and improving reliability. In previous years, the budget for community transport operators was not fully drawn down.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what estimate she has made of the number of farmers who have reduced or ended environmental stewardship activities due to changes in Government funding in West Dorset constituency.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Natural England is not aware of any farmers from West Dorset that have informed us of their intention to reduce or end their Defra agri-environment scheme due to changes in Government funding.

West Dorset has good coverage of Environmental Stewardship Higher Level Schemes, Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier, and Sustainable Farming Incentive. We continue to receive high levels of interest in both engagement in new schemes and renewal of existing schemes.

Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, if he will ask the Pubs Code Adjudicator to collect and publish data on the number of tied pub tenants who have served a section 26 notice and (a) secured a Market Rent Only agreement under the Pubs Code and (b) had their application opposed on the basis of Ground G(1) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Answered by Kate Dearden - Minister of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade)

The Pubs Code only applies to pub companies with 500 or more tied pubs in England and Wales. The Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) is responsible for regulating those covered by the Code and exists to protect fairness in the tied business relationship. The PCA obtains data from the six Pub-Owning Businesses (POBs) that it regulates through its annual compliance report, published on its website: Reporting Data to the PCA | PCA. This page also contains information about the uptake of the Market Rent Only option.

Neither the PCA nor Government holds data about the use of s30(1)(g) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what information his Department holds on the number of tied pub tenants (a) who have served a section 26 notice and secured a Market Rent Only agreement under the Pubs Code and (b) whose applications did not proceed because the landlord relied on Ground G(1) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Answered by Kate Dearden - Minister of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade)

The Pubs Code only applies to pub companies with 500 or more tied pubs in England and Wales. The Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) is responsible for regulating those covered by the Code and exists to protect fairness in the tied business relationship. The PCA obtains data from the six Pub-Owning Businesses (POBs) that it regulates through its annual compliance report, published on its website: Reporting Data to the PCA | PCA. This page also contains information about the uptake of the Market Rent Only option.

Neither the PCA nor Government holds data about the use of s30(1)(g) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what information his Department holds on the number of tied pub tenants who have been served with a section 25 notice citing Ground G(1) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 since 1 January 2024.

Answered by Kate Dearden - Minister of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade)

The Pubs Code only applies to pub companies with 500 or more tied pubs in England and Wales. The Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) is responsible for regulating those covered by the Code and exists to protect fairness in the tied business relationship. The PCA obtains data from the six Pub-Owning Businesses (POBs) that it regulates through its annual compliance report, published on its website: Reporting Data to the PCA | PCA. This page also contains information about the uptake of the Market Rent Only option.

Neither the PCA nor Government holds data about the use of s30(1)(g) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, whether he has had discussions with the Pubs Code Adjudicator on the use of Ground G(1) under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 in relation to tied pub tenants seeking a Market Rent Only option.

Answered by Kate Dearden - Minister of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade)

The Pubs Code only applies to pub companies with 500 or more tied pubs in England and Wales. The Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) is responsible for regulating those covered by the Code and exists to protect fairness in the tied business relationship. The PCA obtains data from the six Pub-Owning Businesses (POBs) that it regulates through its annual compliance report, published on its website: Reporting Data to the PCA | PCA. This page also contains information about the uptake of the Market Rent Only option.

Neither the PCA nor Government holds data about the use of s30(1)(g) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether he made an assessment of the potential merits o introducing business rates relief for community sports clubs comparable to that available for public houses.

Answered by James Murray - Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster General

Community sports clubs are eligible for the new permanently lower multipliers for eligible RHL properties. These provide nearly £1 billion per year of support to the RHL sector and benefit over 750,000 properties.

The Government has introduced a support package worth £4.3 billion to protect ratepayers seeing their bills increase because of the revaluation. This includes the Supporting Small Business scheme which caps bill increases for the smallest businesses losing some or all of their small business rates relief, rural rate relief, or RHL relief.

Properties mainly used for charitable purposes, such as by a community amateur sports club, may also be eligible for charitable rate relief which gives up to 80% off a business rates bill.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of business rates on the financial sustainability of community sports clubs in West Dorset constituency.

Answered by James Murray - Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster General

Community sports clubs are eligible for the new permanently lower multipliers for eligible RHL properties. These provide nearly £1 billion per year of support to the RHL sector and benefit over 750,000 properties.

The Government has introduced a support package worth £4.3 billion to protect ratepayers seeing their bills increase because of the revaluation. This includes the Supporting Small Business scheme which caps bill increases for the smallest businesses losing some or all of their small business rates relief, rural rate relief, or RHL relief.

Properties mainly used for charitable purposes, such as by a community amateur sports club, may also be eligible for charitable rate relief which gives up to 80% off a business rates bill.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of business rates on the financial sustainability of community sports clubs in rural areas.

Answered by James Murray - Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster General

Community sports clubs are eligible for the new permanently lower multipliers for eligible RHL properties. These provide nearly £1 billion per year of support to the RHL sector and benefit over 750,000 properties.

The Government has introduced a support package worth £4.3 billion to protect ratepayers seeing their bills increase because of the revaluation. This includes the Supporting Small Business scheme which caps bill increases for the smallest businesses losing some or all of their small business rates relief, rural rate relief, or RHL relief.

Properties mainly used for charitable purposes, such as by a community amateur sports club, may also be eligible for charitable rate relief which gives up to 80% off a business rates bill.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of business rates on the financial sustainability of community sports clubs.

Answered by James Murray - Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster General

Community sports clubs are eligible for the new permanently lower multipliers for eligible RHL properties. These provide nearly £1 billion per year of support to the RHL sector and benefit over 750,000 properties.

The Government has introduced a support package worth £4.3 billion to protect ratepayers seeing their bills increase because of the revaluation. This includes the Supporting Small Business scheme which caps bill increases for the smallest businesses losing some or all of their small business rates relief, rural rate relief, or RHL relief.

Properties mainly used for charitable purposes, such as by a community amateur sports club, may also be eligible for charitable rate relief which gives up to 80% off a business rates bill.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps she is taking to ensure that the inclusion of woodland greenhouse gas removal units within the UK Emissions Trading Scheme does not suppress investment in engineered greenhouse gas removal technologies.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The UK Emissions Trading Scheme Authority set out its position on the integration of Greenhouse Gas Removals in its July 2025 Response to Consultation. This included published analysis and evidence on woodland creation, but no decision on the possible integration of woodland in the UK ETS has been made.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of reducing business rates for community sports clubs on participation in grassroots sport.

Answered by James Murray - Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster General

Community sports clubs are eligible for the new permanently lower multipliers for eligible RHL properties. These provide nearly £1 billion per year of support to the RHL sector and benefit over 750,000 properties.

The Government has introduced a support package worth £4.3 billion to protect ratepayers seeing their bills increase because of the revaluation. This includes the Supporting Small Business scheme which caps bill increases for the smallest businesses losing some or all of their small business rates relief, rural rate relief, or RHL relief.

Properties mainly used for charitable purposes, such as by a community amateur sports club, may also be eligible for charitable rate relief which gives up to 80% off a business rates bill.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of delays in the registration of supported accommodation providers on the availability of placements for care-experienced young people in West Dorset.

Answered by Josh MacAlister - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

Ofsted has seen increasing application volumes across children's social care. As of 31 March 2026, there were 370 ongoing applications from supported accommodation providers, down from 616 in the previous year. The registered supported accommodation sector grew by 37% in the year to 31 March 2026 with available capacity at 24,700 places, far exceeding the 7,520 looked after children living in supported accommodation. Published data does not indicate a lack of registered accommodation in the South West. In March 2026, places in registered providers in this region totalled 1,970.

Ofsted’s updated registration policy makes clear that, due to high demand, it is likely to take several months to reach a decision, with timescales affected by some factors outside Ofsted's control, such as incomplete applications. While Ofsted has introduced a prioritisation policy for new children's home applications, no such policy currently applies to supported accommodation, although this remains under review.

Ofsted registration is essential to ensure the appropriate safeguards and support are in place to keep children safe. Regulations do not require care leavers over the age of 18 to be accommodated in Ofsted regulated provision, though some care leavers will benefit from being in regulated provision. The government recently published a review of early deaths of care experienced young people and are working to deliver a programme of improved support for care leavers.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps she is taking to help ensure the registration process for supported accommodation providers has adequate capacity to meet demand and avoid future backlogs.

Answered by Josh MacAlister - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

Ofsted has seen increasing application volumes across children's social care. As of 31 March 2026, there were 370 ongoing applications from supported accommodation providers, down from 616 in the previous year. The registered supported accommodation sector grew by 37% in the year to 31 March 2026 with available capacity at 24,700 places, far exceeding the 7,520 looked after children living in supported accommodation. Published data does not indicate a lack of registered accommodation in the South West. In March 2026, places in registered providers in this region totalled 1,970.

Ofsted’s updated registration policy makes clear that, due to high demand, it is likely to take several months to reach a decision, with timescales affected by some factors outside Ofsted's control, such as incomplete applications. While Ofsted has introduced a prioritisation policy for new children's home applications, no such policy currently applies to supported accommodation, although this remains under review.

Ofsted registration is essential to ensure the appropriate safeguards and support are in place to keep children safe. Regulations do not require care leavers over the age of 18 to be accommodated in Ofsted regulated provision, though some care leavers will benefit from being in regulated provision. The government recently published a review of early deaths of care experienced young people and are working to deliver a programme of improved support for care leavers.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether she has considered the potential merits of introducing interim arrangements to allow supported accommodation providers with complete registration applications to operate, subject to appropriate safeguards, while awaiting inspection and registration.

Answered by Josh MacAlister - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

Ofsted has seen increasing application volumes across children's social care. As of 31 March 2026, there were 370 ongoing applications from supported accommodation providers, down from 616 in the previous year. The registered supported accommodation sector grew by 37% in the year to 31 March 2026 with available capacity at 24,700 places, far exceeding the 7,520 looked after children living in supported accommodation. Published data does not indicate a lack of registered accommodation in the South West. In March 2026, places in registered providers in this region totalled 1,970.

Ofsted’s updated registration policy makes clear that, due to high demand, it is likely to take several months to reach a decision, with timescales affected by some factors outside Ofsted's control, such as incomplete applications. While Ofsted has introduced a prioritisation policy for new children's home applications, no such policy currently applies to supported accommodation, although this remains under review.

Ofsted registration is essential to ensure the appropriate safeguards and support are in place to keep children safe. Regulations do not require care leavers over the age of 18 to be accommodated in Ofsted regulated provision, though some care leavers will benefit from being in regulated provision. The government recently published a review of early deaths of care experienced young people and are working to deliver a programme of improved support for care leavers.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of delays in Ofsted registration for supported accommodation providers on the availability of placements for care-experienced young people.

Answered by Josh MacAlister - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

Ofsted has seen increasing application volumes across children's social care. As of 31 March 2026, there were 370 ongoing applications from supported accommodation providers, down from 616 in the previous year. The registered supported accommodation sector grew by 37% in the year to 31 March 2026 with available capacity at 24,700 places, far exceeding the 7,520 looked after children living in supported accommodation. Published data does not indicate a lack of registered accommodation in the South West. In March 2026, places in registered providers in this region totalled 1,970.

Ofsted’s updated registration policy makes clear that, due to high demand, it is likely to take several months to reach a decision, with timescales affected by some factors outside Ofsted's control, such as incomplete applications. While Ofsted has introduced a prioritisation policy for new children's home applications, no such policy currently applies to supported accommodation, although this remains under review.

Ofsted registration is essential to ensure the appropriate safeguards and support are in place to keep children safe. Regulations do not require care leavers over the age of 18 to be accommodated in Ofsted regulated provision, though some care leavers will benefit from being in regulated provision. The government recently published a review of early deaths of care experienced young people and are working to deliver a programme of improved support for care leavers.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what discussions she has had with Ofsted on publishing expected timescales for determining applications for the registration of supported accommodation providers.

Answered by Josh MacAlister - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

Ofsted has seen increasing application volumes across children's social care. As of 31 March 2026, there were 370 ongoing applications from supported accommodation providers, down from 616 in the previous year. The registered supported accommodation sector grew by 37% in the year to 31 March 2026 with available capacity at 24,700 places, far exceeding the 7,520 looked after children living in supported accommodation. Published data does not indicate a lack of registered accommodation in the South West. In March 2026, places in registered providers in this region totalled 1,970.

Ofsted’s updated registration policy makes clear that, due to high demand, it is likely to take several months to reach a decision, with timescales affected by some factors outside Ofsted's control, such as incomplete applications. While Ofsted has introduced a prioritisation policy for new children's home applications, no such policy currently applies to supported accommodation, although this remains under review.

Ofsted registration is essential to ensure the appropriate safeguards and support are in place to keep children safe. Regulations do not require care leavers over the age of 18 to be accommodated in Ofsted regulated provision, though some care leavers will benefit from being in regulated provision. The government recently published a review of early deaths of care experienced young people and are working to deliver a programme of improved support for care leavers.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether additional resources have been provided to Ofsted to reduce the backlog of applications for the registration of supported accommodation providers.

Answered by Josh MacAlister - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

Ofsted has seen increasing application volumes across children's social care. As of 31 March 2026, there were 370 ongoing applications from supported accommodation providers, down from 616 in the previous year. The registered supported accommodation sector grew by 37% in the year to 31 March 2026 with available capacity at 24,700 places, far exceeding the 7,520 looked after children living in supported accommodation. Published data does not indicate a lack of registered accommodation in the South West. In March 2026, places in registered providers in this region totalled 1,970.

Ofsted’s updated registration policy makes clear that, due to high demand, it is likely to take several months to reach a decision, with timescales affected by some factors outside Ofsted's control, such as incomplete applications. While Ofsted has introduced a prioritisation policy for new children's home applications, no such policy currently applies to supported accommodation, although this remains under review.

Ofsted registration is essential to ensure the appropriate safeguards and support are in place to keep children safe. Regulations do not require care leavers over the age of 18 to be accommodated in Ofsted regulated provision, though some care leavers will benefit from being in regulated provision. The government recently published a review of early deaths of care experienced young people and are working to deliver a programme of improved support for care leavers.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of exclusion zones in preventing the spread of Blue Tongue Virus.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Department continually assesses the effectiveness of bluetongue disease control measures, including restricted zones, using surveillance data, outbreak evidence and the latest scientific and veterinary advice. Bluetongue is primarily spread by biting midges. Vaccination, rather than movement controls therefore, remains the most effective medium and long-term control measure against bluetongue.

Restricted zones are intended to reduce the risk of disease spread by limiting the movement of higher-risk animals from affected areas into unaffected areas. The whole of England is now considered to be at risk from Bluetongue. The location and extent of disease control zones are kept under regular review and adjusted where necessary in response to the evolving disease situation.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether she has had discussions with food retailers and manufacturers on reducing the cost of gluten-free food products.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Secretary of State has not held discussions with businesses on this matter. However, officials in the Department engage regularly with relevant businesses and stakeholders. I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 29 June 2026, PQ UIN 12485.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment has her department made of the accuracy of the reported cases of blue tongue virus in a) the South West and b) West Dorset.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Reported cases of bluetongue in the South West, including West Dorset, have been confirmed through established surveillance and diagnostic procedures. The presence of bluetongue is confirmed following veterinary assessment and laboratory testing undertaken by The Pirbright Institute, the UK National Reference Laboratory for bluetongue, or other designated Official Laboratories, using validated tests that meet international standards. Defra has confidence in the accuracy of confirmed case reporting. Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency continue to monitor both confirmed and suspected cases closely.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent consideration her Department has given to the location of livestock markets and farms when determining exclusion zones for Blue Tongue Virus.

Answered by Stephen Morgan - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Secretary of State has not held discussions with businesses on this matter. However, officials in the Department engage regularly with relevant businesses and stakeholders. I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 29 June 2026, PQ UIN 12485.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what guidance has been issued to local authorities on reducing the risk of fires caused by disposable barbecues.

Answered by Florence Eshalomi - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Fire and rescue services have been responding to an exceptionally challenging period of wildfire activity, with multiple significant incidents being managed simultaneously across England and Wales.

Measures have been taken to reduce wildfire risk including the ban on the sale of disposable barbecues introduced on 14 August as well as the use of the emergency alert system within parts of the UK. The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government also wrote to local authorities across England reminding them of the powers available to restrict activities that could increase fire risk, including the use of Public Spaces Protection Orders to limit barbecues, campfires and other forms of open fire in vulnerable areas.

This sits alongside wider measures including advice being made more visible through, including social media during high-risk periods, the Cabinet Office Prepare website, the Fire Kills campaign and StayWise, the NFCC-led education platform.

The Government will continue to consider whether further measures are needed, including through the Wildfire Summit announced by the Prime Minister, taking place in autumn.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department will take to ensure that Army Caretaker or their family in West Dorset are supported to avoid homelessness as a result of the Army Caretaker Review.

Answered by Calvin Bailey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans and People)

The Army Caretaker Review remains ongoing and no final decisions have been made. Consultation on the proposed implementation plan is taking place with the recognised trade unions. Affected employees have been informed of the proposal and indicative timeline and will be updated following consultation.

Of the 123 caretakers currently in scope of the review, 89% occupy accommodation linked to their caretaker role. This data is correct as at 1 September 2026. The proposed timetable for vacating linked accommodation, including cases where employment may continue beyond 31 March 2027, remains subject to consultation and implementation planning.

The Department recognises the uncertainty and potential impact on affected caretakers and their families. Housing-related issues, including transitional arrangements and the proposed timetable for vacating tied accommodation, are being considered as part of implementation planning. Requests to remain in accommodation beyond the end of the role, under a different rental agreement, would be considered on a case-by-case basis by the property owner, taking account of Defence requirements, site security, estate plans and individual circumstances.

Affected employees will receive support through line management, Human Resources , trades union representatives and the Employee Assistance Programme. Army caretakers across the UK, will also be encouraged to engage early with local housing authorities and relevant independent advice services where they may need support to secure alternative accommodation.

Work is underway to identify suitable redeployment opportunities within Defence and the wider Civil Service. Redundancy would only be considered where suitable redeployment cannot be secured. Any financial assistance or compensation would be considered in line with the relevant Civil Service compensation scheme provisions and wider departmental policy.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what redeployment opportunities will be offered to long-serving Army Caretakers in West Dorset, particularly those at the lower grades of the Civil Service.

Answered by Calvin Bailey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans and People)

The Army Caretaker Review remains ongoing and no final decisions have been made. Consultation on the proposed implementation plan is taking place with the recognised trade unions. Affected employees have been informed of the proposal and indicative timeline and will be updated following consultation.

Of the 123 caretakers currently in scope of the review, 89% occupy accommodation linked to their caretaker role. This data is correct as at 1 September 2026. The proposed timetable for vacating linked accommodation, including cases where employment may continue beyond 31 March 2027, remains subject to consultation and implementation planning.

The Department recognises the uncertainty and potential impact on affected caretakers and their families. Housing-related issues, including transitional arrangements and the proposed timetable for vacating tied accommodation, are being considered as part of implementation planning. Requests to remain in accommodation beyond the end of the role, under a different rental agreement, would be considered on a case-by-case basis by the property owner, taking account of Defence requirements, site security, estate plans and individual circumstances.

Affected employees will receive support through line management, Human Resources , trades union representatives and the Employee Assistance Programme. Army caretakers across the UK, will also be encouraged to engage early with local housing authorities and relevant independent advice services where they may need support to secure alternative accommodation.

Work is underway to identify suitable redeployment opportunities within Defence and the wider Civil Service. Redundancy would only be considered where suitable redeployment cannot be secured. Any financial assistance or compensation would be considered in line with the relevant Civil Service compensation scheme provisions and wider departmental policy.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what housing support, transitional arrangements or financial assistance will be available to Army Caretakers in West Dorset who are required to leave tied accommodation.

Answered by Calvin Bailey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans and People)

The Army Caretaker Review remains ongoing and no final decisions have been made. Consultation on the proposed implementation plan is taking place with the recognised trade unions. Affected employees have been informed of the proposal and indicative timeline and will be updated following consultation.

Of the 123 caretakers currently in scope of the review, 89% occupy accommodation linked to their caretaker role. This data is correct as at 1 September 2026. The proposed timetable for vacating linked accommodation, including cases where employment may continue beyond 31 March 2027, remains subject to consultation and implementation planning.

The Department recognises the uncertainty and potential impact on affected caretakers and their families. Housing-related issues, including transitional arrangements and the proposed timetable for vacating tied accommodation, are being considered as part of implementation planning. Requests to remain in accommodation beyond the end of the role, under a different rental agreement, would be considered on a case-by-case basis by the property owner, taking account of Defence requirements, site security, estate plans and individual circumstances.

Affected employees will receive support through line management, Human Resources , trades union representatives and the Employee Assistance Programme. Army caretakers across the UK, will also be encouraged to engage early with local housing authorities and relevant independent advice services where they may need support to secure alternative accommodation.

Work is underway to identify suitable redeployment opportunities within Defence and the wider Civil Service. Redundancy would only be considered where suitable redeployment cannot be secured. Any financial assistance or compensation would be considered in line with the relevant Civil Service compensation scheme provisions and wider departmental policy.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he will review the decision requiring Army Caretakers to vacate tied accommodation by 31 March 2027 when some employees may remain in paid service until 31 July 2027.

Answered by Calvin Bailey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans and People)

The Army Caretaker Review remains ongoing and no final decisions have been made. Consultation on the proposed implementation plan is taking place with the recognised trade unions. Affected employees have been informed of the proposal and indicative timeline and will be updated following consultation.

Of the 123 caretakers currently in scope of the review, 89% occupy accommodation linked to their caretaker role. This data is correct as at 1 September 2026. The proposed timetable for vacating linked accommodation, including cases where employment may continue beyond 31 March 2027, remains subject to consultation and implementation planning.

The Department recognises the uncertainty and potential impact on affected caretakers and their families. Housing-related issues, including transitional arrangements and the proposed timetable for vacating tied accommodation, are being considered as part of implementation planning. Requests to remain in accommodation beyond the end of the role, under a different rental agreement, would be considered on a case-by-case basis by the property owner, taking account of Defence requirements, site security, estate plans and individual circumstances.

Affected employees will receive support through line management, Human Resources , trades union representatives and the Employee Assistance Programme. Army caretakers across the UK, will also be encouraged to engage early with local housing authorities and relevant independent advice services where they may need support to secure alternative accommodation.

Work is underway to identify suitable redeployment opportunities within Defence and the wider Civil Service. Redundancy would only be considered where suitable redeployment cannot be secured. Any financial assistance or compensation would be considered in line with the relevant Civil Service compensation scheme provisions and wider departmental policy.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of woodland-based greenhouse gas removal units on demand for engineered greenhouse gas removals within the UK Emissions Trading Scheme.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The UK Emissions Trading Scheme Authority set out its position on the integration of Greenhouse Gas Removals in its July 2025 Response to Consultation. This included published analysis and evidence on woodland creation in the UK, but no decision on the possible integration of woodland in the UK ETS has been made.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of concessionary bus pass reimbursement rates on the viability of community transport services in rural areas.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government recognises the important role that community transport services play in providing access to local services and opportunities, particularly in rural areas, including West Dorset.

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) applies on eligible local bus services as defined in concessionary travel legislation. Certain community transport services may be eligible for the scheme where they meet the relevant statutory criteria. Under the ENCTS, operators are reimbursed by Travel Concession Authorities on a ‘no better, no worse off’ basis for concessionary travel, so that operators should be left financially neutral as a result of carrying concessionary pass holders.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of providing transitional protections for members of the Police Pension Scheme who received pension benefit quotations before 2015.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Home Office)

Pension benefit quotations are estimates based on the information available and the legislative framework in force at the time they are issued. Entitlement to pension benefits is determined in accordance with the relevant pension scheme regulations.

Transitional protection arrangements were put in place with the introduction of the 2015 police pension scheme to apply to those closest to retirement. These protections were found to be discriminatory to younger members and a remedy was put in place which came into force from 1 October 2023.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether her Department is taking steps to reduce duplication by enabling the Office for National Statistics to make greater use of data already held by Government departments rather than requiring businesses to provide the same information through compulsory surveys.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (Cabinet Office) (Jointly with HM Treasury)

The information requested falls under the remit of the UK Statistics Authority.

A response to the Hon gentleman’s Parliamentary Question of 28th August is attached.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what long-term plans she has to improve the resilience of the rail network to soil moisture deficit and other climate-related ground movement.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Network Rail is considering the impacts of climate change through its long-term climate adaptation and resilience planning. This includes improving understanding of climate-related ground movement risks, monitoring the performance of vulnerable assets, and identifying targeted interventions and investment priorities to support a safe and reliable railway in a changing climate.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of compulsory Office for National Statistics surveys on small businesses' administration.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (Cabinet Office) (Jointly with HM Treasury)

The information requested falls under the remit of the UK Statistics Authority.

A response to the Hon gentleman’s Parliamentary Question of 28th August is attached.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of soil moisture deficit on the resilience of railway infrastructure in England.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Soil moisture deficit is a recognised climate-related risk that can affect railway infrastructure in areas with susceptible ground conditions. Network Rail continually monitors asset performance and weather-related trends to inform maintenance, operational and investment decisions across the network.

Following prolonged hot weather and drought conditions in summer 2026, a temporary timetable was introduced to minimise disruption and maintain safe and reliable services. Since its introduction between Salisbury and Exeter St Davids on 10 August 2026, the Southern Region has experienced some of the driest conditions ever recorded on Britain's railway network, highlighting the importance of continuing monitoring and management of these risks.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to reduce the risk of rail disruption caused by soil moisture deficit.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Network Rail manages the risk from soil moisture deficit through a combination of asset monitoring, inspection, maintenance and targeted mitigation at locations known to be vulnerable to climate-related ground movement. These activities support the early identification of emerging issues and help reduce the likelihood and impact of disruption during periods of prolonged dry weather.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of soil moisture deficit on railway services in West Dorset.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

We recognise the significant impact that soil moisture deficit can have on the West of England Line. The route was constructed in the mid-19th century, and many of its embankments were built using excavated material from nearby cuttings. Modern understanding of geotechnical engineering has highlighted the susceptibility of some of these clay embankments to ground movement during prolonged periods of hot and dry weather. Long sections of this line are also single track, creating operational constraints which are then exacerbated when speed restrictions have to be introduced.

South Western Railway (SWR) and Network Rail Wessex continue to monitor and assess the effects of soil moisture deficit on the route and have undertaken extensive mitigation work since 2025. These measures have enabled journey times in the amended timetable to be reduced by around 30 minutes compared with the previous year.

SWR and Network Rail Wessex are also working with the University of Southampton to improve understanding of the phenomenon and identify longer-term engineering solutions that will enhance the resilience of the route to climate change and extreme weather.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has considered introducing pre-appointment scrutiny by the Foreign Affairs Committee for political appointments to senior roles within the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Answered by Kirsty McNeill - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Government has noted the Foreign Affairs Committee's interest in such appointments and is committed to providing the Committee with the opportunity to scrutinise future political appointees to Head of Mission roles before deployment.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of business rates policy on rural engineering businesses that support agriculture, food production and rural infrastructure.

Answered by James Murray - Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster General

As a result of the 2025 Budget business rates support package, over half of ratepayers see no bill increases in 2026/27, including 23 per cent whose bills go down. Around a third of properties already pay no business rates as they receive 100 per cent Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR).

The budget support package is worth £4.3 billion and includes a supporting small business scheme capping bill increases for the smallest businesses losing some or all of their SBRR or rural rate relief.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether he has considered the potential merits of extending business rates relief available to hospitality businesses to other essential sectors, including rural engineering firms.

Answered by James Murray - Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster General

As a result of the 2025 Budget business rates support package, over half of ratepayers see no bill increases in 2026/27, including 23 per cent whose bills go down. Around a third of properties already pay no business rates as they receive 100 per cent Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR).

The budget support package is worth £4.3 billion and includes a supporting small business scheme capping bill increases for the smallest businesses losing some or all of their SBRR or rural rate relief.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has had discussions with community transport providers in West Dorset on funding arrangements to enable participation in the national bus fare cap scheme.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport operators may participate in the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme where they operate eligible services and choose to take part. Participating operators are reimbursed for discounted journeys made under the scheme, while operators that do not participate remain free to set their own fares.

The Government recognises the important role community transport plays, particularly in rural areas, and provides wider support through measures including the Bus Service Operators Grant and funding provided to local transport authorities to help maintain and improve local bus services. Community transport operators were also eligible for £3.8m of Departmental funding support in 2026/27.

The Department engages regularly with stakeholders across the bus sector on the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of extending financial support for the bus fare cap to community transport services operating in West Dorset.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport operators may participate in the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme where they operate eligible services and choose to take part. Participating operators are reimbursed for discounted journeys made under the scheme, while operators that do not participate remain free to set their own fares.

The Government recognises the important role community transport plays, particularly in rural areas, and provides wider support through measures including the Bus Service Operators Grant and funding provided to local transport authorities to help maintain and improve local bus services. Community transport operators were also eligible for £3.8m of Departmental funding support in 2026/27.

The Department engages regularly with stakeholders across the bus sector on the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of excluding community transport services from the national bus fare cap scheme on those services.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport operators may participate in the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme where they operate eligible services and choose to take part. Participating operators are reimbursed for discounted journeys made under the scheme, while operators that do not participate remain free to set their own fares.

The Government recognises the important role community transport plays, particularly in rural areas, and provides wider support through measures including the Bus Service Operators Grant and funding provided to local transport authorities to help maintain and improve local bus services. Community transport operators were also eligible for £3.8m of Departmental funding support in 2026/27.

The Department engages regularly with stakeholders across the bus sector on the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has considered establishing a funding stream to enable community transport operators to participate in the national bus fare cap scheme.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport operators may participate in the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme where they operate eligible services and choose to take part. Participating operators are reimbursed for discounted journeys made under the scheme, while operators that do not participate remain free to set their own fares.

The Government recognises the important role community transport plays, particularly in rural areas, and provides wider support through measures including the Bus Service Operators Grant and funding provided to local transport authorities to help maintain and improve local bus services. Community transport operators were also eligible for £3.8m of Departmental funding support in 2026/27.

The Department engages regularly with stakeholders across the bus sector on the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the financial pressures faced by community transport operators in West Dorset in meeting the £2 bus fare cap, and what additional support is available.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport operators may participate in the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme where they operate eligible services and choose to take part. Participating operators are eligible for reimbursement in respect of discounted journeys made under the scheme. The reimbursement arrangements are designed to support participation by eligible operators while ensuring passengers benefit from discounted fares.

Operators that do not participate remain free to set their own fares; community transport operators were eligible for £3.8m of Departmental funding support in 2026/27.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the £2 bus fare cap on the viability of community transport services in West Dorset.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport operators may participate in the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme where they operate eligible services and choose to take part. Participating operators are eligible for reimbursement in respect of discounted journeys made under the scheme. The reimbursement arrangements are designed to support participation by eligible operators while ensuring passengers benefit from discounted fares.

Operators that do not participate remain free to set their own fares; community transport operators were eligible for £3.8m of Departmental funding support in 2026/27.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the £2 bus fare cap on the viability of community transport services in rural areas.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport operators may participate in the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme where they operate eligible services and choose to take part. Participating operators are eligible for reimbursement in respect of discounted journeys made under the scheme. The reimbursement arrangements are designed to support participation by eligible operators while ensuring passengers benefit from discounted fares.

Operators that do not participate remain free to set their own fares; community transport operators were eligible for £3.8m of Departmental funding support in 2026/27.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps has her Department made to provide to support community transport operators in West Dorset in meeting the £2 bus fare cap.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Community transport operators may participate in the National Bus Fare Cap Scheme where they operate eligible services and choose to take part. Participating operators are eligible for reimbursement in respect of discounted journeys made under the scheme. The reimbursement arrangements are designed to support participation by eligible operators while ensuring passengers benefit from discounted fares.

Operators that do not participate remain free to set their own fares; community transport operators were eligible for £3.8m of Departmental funding support in 2026/27.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the potential cumulative impact of taxation, business rates, regulatory requirements and compulsory Government data collection on small businesses.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (Cabinet Office) (Jointly with HM Treasury)

The Government recognises that the cumulative burden of taxation, business rates, regulation and reporting requirements impose costs on businesses, recognising that smaller firms can experience these burdens more acutely.

The Government assesses the effects of tax and regulatory measures when they are introduced and keeps wider pressures on businesses under review. For example, tax measures are accompanied by assessments of their impacts on businesses, and the Government has published analysis of the Employment Rights Act. That analysis estimates its costs at around 0.1 per cent of annual employment costs.

The Government has taken action to reduce administrative and compliance burdens, while considering the wider operating environment for small and medium sized businesses (SMEs). This includes increasing the monetary size thresholds for micro-entities, SMEs and large companies in April 2025 – moving 132,000 firms onto lighter touch reporting requirements, and saving £185m per year.

Around one third of properties pay no business rates through 100 per cent Small Business Rate Relief, with a further 85,000 benefiting from tapered relief. The Small Business Regulatory Taskforce is identifying further opportunities to streamline regulation and reduce administrative burdens, including those associated with reporting and data requirements. The Government continues to support employers through wider labour market and skills policies, including fully funded apprenticeship training for eligible young people in SMEs.

The Treasury works closely on small business issues with the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade which is the lead department on SME policy.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what funding she plans to allocate to improve the resilience of railway infrastructure in West Dorset against soil moisture deficit and other climate-related ground conditions over the next five years.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

South Western Railway (SWR) and Network Rail Wessex are developing a long-term plan to modernise the West of England line, planning train services, the trains we use, and infrastructure modernisation together in a ‘whole system’ approach that could include additional sections of double track to improve performance and resilience, and some additional services.

SWR/Network Rail Wessex are working closely with local partners to refine the options, review potential third-party funding opportunities and enhance the various elements' business cases.

SWR/Network Rail Wessex have developed a wide range of options and are carefully analysing each. The options with the strongest case, considering affordability, growth, decarbonisation, economic value and reliability, will be taken forward for further development in conjunction with the Department. Because the line serves a diverse range of communities and needs, there will need to be consensus amongst partners about the options for further development.

Alongside this, we are continuing to invest in the maintenance of the line, which includes provisional plans to replace signalling in the Salisbury area within the next 10 years.

Political donations and campaign finance regulation

Second Reading of the Mental Capacity (Duty to Assess) Bill

Royal National Lifeboat Institution (No. 2)

Publication of Legal Advice on Local Government Reorganisation

Devon maternity services

Local Housing Allowance rates

Found: Watch the meeting Members present: Fleur Anderson; Alex Ballinger; Dan Carden; Abtisam Mohamed; Edward Morello

Found: meeting Members present: Emily Thornberry (Chair); Fleur Anderson; Richard Foord; Abtisam Mohamed; Edward Morello

Found: meeting Members present: Emily Thornberry (Chair); Fleur Anderson; Richard Foord; Abtisam Mohamed; Edward Morello

Found: meeting Members present: Emily Thornberry (Chair); Fleur Anderson; Richard Foord; Abtisam Mohamed; Edward Morello

Found: Select Committee Changes or Nominations Resolved, Edward Morello to be discharged and Helen Maguire