Oral Answers to Questions

James Duddridge Excerpts

Thursday 27th April 2017 Commons Chamber

The Secretary of State was asked—

[James Duddridge (Rochford and Southend East) (Con)]

1. What recent discussions his Department has had with representatives of the tourism sector on the implications for that sector of the UK leaving the EU.

[Chloe Smith (Norwich North) (Con)]

3. What recent discussions his Department has had with representatives of the tourism sector on the implications for that sector of the UK leaving the EU.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union (Mr Robin Walker)]

I welcome the fact that tourism is at its highest levels ever, with foreign visitors contributing £22.4 billion to our economy and the industry as a whole supporting some 1.6 million jobs. The start of this year was the strongest on record, and VisitBritain research shows that since the referendum more Europeans say they are more likely, rather than less likely, to visit the UK.

[James Duddridge]

Southend, of course, is a wonderful tourist destination, with the longest pleasure pier in the world. London Southend airport flies to 26 international destinations. The airport does not do Brussels, however, but it does do Europe. Will the Minister, on his re-election, agree to come to Southend to discuss how a new, emboldened Britain can do the European Union and the country a good job globally with trade with all nation states?

[Mr Walker]

My hon. Friend raises an important point both about regional aviation and the beautiful part of the world he represents. That part of the world is known for its common sense, which I am sure will be reflected on 8 June. We have been very clear that we are working to ensure the best possible liberal access to European aviation markets and are seeking to replicate third-country arrangements with the likes of the US and Canada. We are committed to working with the sector to get the best deal for the UK, and I will be delighted to meet him to discuss how we can boost tourism in Southend.

Oral Answers to Questions

James Duddridge Excerpts

Thursday 1st December 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jones]

I am glad that my right hon. Friend is so supportive of Government policy in this regard. He is absolutely right. Frankly, Opposition Members would do well to be more positive about the benefits of Brexit, rather than constantly seeking to talk down the economy.

[James Duddridge (Rochford and Southend East) (Con)]

I fully approve of more money going to the frontline, but can the Minister give me some reassurance that he will not be funding the “regions”—a pernicious invention of people who wanted to break up the United Kingdom into various parts that were not contiguous with any historical links to our communities?

[Mr Jones]

Indeed, the regions are a European construct. Post-Brexit, we will be able to choose which parts of our country benefit from Government support.

Article 50

James Duddridge Excerpts

Monday 7th November 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Davis]

The primary aim of that Bill—its original author was actually Tony Benn—was to bring the right to declare war outside article 5 provisions under the control of the House. I politely say that that has happened.

[James Duddridge (Rochford and Southend East) (Con)]

My right hon. Friend has come under quite a degree of criticism for not being more revealing and transparent about the Government’s position. In fact, he is told that he is holding his cards close to his chest. I think that this warrants greater investigation. Will my right hon. Friend agree to meeting me and cross-party group of Members in the Department for a game of poker? They can put their cards on the table; we can keep our cards to our chests—and the money can go to Southend charities!

[Mr Davis]

My hon. Friend makes his point.

Exiting the European Union

James Duddridge Excerpts

Monday 5th September 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Davis]

Let me first deal with the immediate uncertainty and loss of confidence. There was undoubtedly a downward dip in confidence immediately after Brexit, partly because of all the terrible things people said would happen. They have not happened, and confidence is recovering, so let us put that to one side for the moment.

On access to markets, I am absolutely on the side of those FSB members. That is what we will seek to do, but we must take on board the fact that the sheer level of immigration into the UK from the European Union has caused social issues, and perhaps economic issues for low-paid workers and the like. We must balance that against the corporate interests—that is what we will do—and try to get the outcome that is best for Britain.

[James Duddridge (Rochford and Southend East) (Con)]

As someone who supported Brexit, I offer congratulations on the creation of the Secretary of State’s Department and wish it success. However, may I gently ask him when he hopes to close down the Department and return the function of the Minister of Europe to the Foreign Office?

[Mr Davis]

My desire to return to the Back Benches is overwhelming, so it will be as soon as I can.