Business of the House

Greg Mulholland Excerpts

Thursday 1st November 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr Lansley]

I hope there will be opportunities to discuss these issues. The hon. Gentleman might talk to his colleagues on the Opposition Front Bench. Instead of a debate on regional pay in the NHS, which is not proposed, he might have invited his colleagues to have a debate on improving outcomes in the NHS, which is what this Government are setting out to do. Where diabetes is concerned, that is one of our priorities.

[Greg Mulholland (Leeds North West) (LD)]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

Order. Can the hon. Gentleman assure me that he was present in the Chamber at the start of the Leader of the House’s statement?

[Greg Mulholland]

Indeed, and before the end of Energy and Climate Change questions, Mr Speaker.

[Mr Speaker]

If he was, that is fine.

[Greg Mulholland]

May we have an urgent debate on the nonsense of empty properties having to pay rates? It is hugely damaging and is preventing business. Wharfebank business centre in my constituency renovates old mill space to provide wonderful office space. The business is desperate for tenants, yet it cannot renovate further space, because if it does it will be forced to pay full rates on it. It does not make sense and is holding back growth.

[Mr Lansley]

Many Members will be aware of this issue, and my hon. Friend makes an important point. I will not dwell on the arguments, but he might note that, given the importance of the issue to small businesses, there will be an opportunity to consider it in the context of the Growth and Infrastructure Bill, which I have announced is due for debate on Monday.