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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the statement on Local Government Reorganisation of 7 September 2026, on what date she first considered withdrawing the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex.

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

I refer the Hon. Member to the Secretary of State’s oral statement of 7 September 2026. The government has withdrawn the March 2026 decision for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock and is undertaking a full review of the local government reorganisation programme. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Government's decision of 7 September 2026 to withdraw the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock, whether any revised proposal for Essex will be required to demonstrate measurable improvements in frontline services before being approved.

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

I refer the Hon. Member to the Secretary of State’s oral statement of 7 September 2026. The government has withdrawn the March 2026 decision for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock and is undertaking a full review of the local government reorganisation programme. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Government's decision of 7 September 2026 to withdraw the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock, whether opportunities will be provided for residents of Basildon and Thurrock to make representations on revised proposals before a new decision is made.

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

I refer the Hon. Member to the Secretary of State’s oral statement of 7 September 2026. The government has withdrawn the March 2026 decision for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock and is undertaking a full review of the local government reorganisation programme. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Government's decision of 7 September 2026 to withdraw the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock, whether any revised proposal for Essex will be required to demonstrate measurable financial savings before being approved.

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

I refer the Hon. Member to the Secretary of State’s oral statement of 7 September 2026. The government has withdrawn the March 2026 decision for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock and is undertaking a full review of the local government reorganisation programme. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what lessons her Department has identified from the previous process for local government reorganisation in Essex that will inform the review of the local government reorganisation programme.

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

I refer the Hon. Member to the Secretary of State’s oral statement of 7 September 2026. The government has withdrawn the March 2026 decision for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock and is undertaking a full review of the local government reorganisation programme. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Government's decision of 7 September 2026 to withdraw the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock, whether hon. Members representing Basildon and Thurrock will be able to make representations before a new decision is made.

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

I refer the Hon. Member to the Secretary of State’s oral statement of 7 September 2026. The government has withdrawn the March 2026 decision for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock and is undertaking a full review of the local government reorganisation programme. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Government's decision of 7 September 2026 to withdraw the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock, whether maintaining existing local government arrangements in Essex will be considered as an option as part of the review.

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

I refer the Hon. Member to the Secretary of State’s oral statement of 7 September 2026. The government has withdrawn the March 2026 decision for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock and is undertaking a full review of the local government reorganisation programme. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Government's decision of 7 September 2026 to withdraw the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock, whether the review will consider the (a) three, (b) four and (c) five council model proposals for Essex.

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

I refer the Hon. Member to the Secretary of State’s oral statement of 7 September 2026. The government has withdrawn the March 2026 decision for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock and is undertaking a full review of the local government reorganisation programme. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department are taking to ensure that Basildon and Thurrock do not lose access to funding or investment opportunities while local government reorganisation is under review.

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

As set out by the Secretary of State in her oral statement of 7 September, the government has withdrawn the March 2026 decisions for Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, and paused decisions for the other 14 areas while a full review of the local government reorganisation programme is conducted. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible. We also recognise that areas will have committed resources to reorganisation and ministers will consider this matter alongside the review.

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 potential impact of withdrawing the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock on investment in housing, transport and economic growth in Basildon and Thurrock.

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

As set out by the Secretary of State in her oral statement of 7 September, the government has withdrawn the March 2026 decisions for Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, and paused decisions for the other 14 areas while a full review of the local government reorganisation programme is conducted. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible. We also recognise that areas will have committed resources to reorganisation and ministers will consider this matter alongside the review.

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 potential impact of withdrawing the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock on the financial resilience of (a) Basildon Council and (b) Thurrock Council.

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

As set out by the Secretary of State in her oral statement of 7 September, the government has withdrawn the March 2026 decisions for Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, and paused decisions for the other 14 areas while a full review of the local government reorganisation programme is conducted. We recognise the need for clarity and will set out next steps as soon as possible. We also recognise that areas will have committed resources to reorganisation and ministers will consider this matter alongside the review.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she is taking to encourage local authorities to adopt proactive approaches to preventing fly-tipping.

Answered by Emma Hardy - Minister of State (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

This Government is committed to tackling fly-tipping and supports local authorities to adopt proactive approaches to preventing fly-tipping through the National Fly-Tipping Prevention Group, which develops and promotes good practice, partnership working and awareness-raising tools. Defra also support councils to make effective use of its enforcement powers through guidance on vehicle seizure and forthcoming statutory fly-tipping enforcement guidance. The Waste Crime Action Plan includes preventative measures including waste carrier reforms, digital waste tracking and tighter regulation to help deter waste crime before it occurs.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of employers failing to inform unsuccessful applicants of the outcome of their job applications on the ability of those applicants to seek alternative employment.

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

The government recognises concerns raised by young people who contributed to Alan Milburn's interim review of the rise in the number of 16 to 24-year-olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Many reported submitting large numbers of job applications but receiving either no response or only automated rejections.

The government is considering these concerns and will respond to any recommendations arising from Alan Milburn's final review once it is published.

The government is not aware of any jurisdiction that legally requires employers to respond individually to every job application and has no current plans to introduce such a requirement. However, applicants may wish to request feedback from employers where appropriate. Employers must also comply with their obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and must not unlawfully discriminate during recruitment or selection processes.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what steps he is taking to encourage employers to inform all job applicants on the outcome of their applications.

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

The government recognises concerns raised by young people who contributed to Alan Milburn's interim review of the rise in the number of 16 to 24-year-olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Many reported submitting large numbers of job applications but receiving either no response or only automated rejections.

The government is considering these concerns and will respond to any recommendations arising from Alan Milburn's final review once it is published.

The government is not aware of any jurisdiction that legally requires employers to respond individually to every job application and has no current plans to introduce such a requirement. However, applicants may wish to request feedback from employers where appropriate. Employers must also comply with their obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and must not unlawfully discriminate during recruitment or selection processes.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of public health campaigns in encouraging men to act on concerns about their health before symptoms become serious.

Answered by Diana Johnson - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

I refer the Hon Member to the Men’s Health Strategy published last November and available at the following link:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mens-health-strategy-for-england

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps she is taking to improve men’s engagement with preventative healthcare services.

Answered by Diana Johnson - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

I refer the Hon Member to the Men’s Health Strategy published last November and available at the following link:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mens-health-strategy-for-england

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 made an estimate of the number of local authorities whose Council Tax Reduction schemes take the earnings of non-dependent young adults into account when determining entitlement.

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

Decisions on working age Council Tax Reduction schemes are a matter for local authorities. Council tax support for working age households is designed by councils in consultation with their residents, taking into account the resources available to them and the needs and circumstances of their local communities.

The Government has not made a specific assessment of the impact of Council Tax Reduction schemes on households where a young adult enters employment.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department has made an assessment of the level of expenditure by Basildon Council on diversity, equity and inclusion training in each of the last three years.

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

The department does not hold this information

and has not made any assessment. Local authorities are independent employers responsible for the management and organisation of their own workforces, including training.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what data her Department holds on the amount spent by local authorities on diversity, equity and inclusion training programmes in each of the last five years.

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

The department does not hold this information

and has not made any assessment. Local authorities are independent employers responsible for the management and organisation of their own workforces, including training.

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 ensuring that staff training does not promote (a) inaccurate or (b) misleading information.

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

The department does not hold this information

and has not made any assessment. Local authorities are independent employers responsible for the management and organisation of their own workforces, including training.

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 Reduction schemes on households where a young adult enters employment.

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

Decisions on working age Council Tax Reduction schemes are a matter for local authorities. Council tax support for working age households is designed by councils in consultation with their residents, taking into account the resources available to them and the needs and circumstances of their local communities.

The Government has not made a specific assessment of the impact of Council Tax Reduction schemes on households where a young adult enters employment.

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 whether diversity, equity and inclusion training commissioned by local authorities is based on evidence.

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

The department does not hold this information

and has not made any assessment. Local authorities are independent employers responsible for the management and organisation of their own workforces, including training.

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 role of public playgrounds in helping to reduce levels of (a) childhood obesity and (b) physical inactivity.

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

The Government recognises that children’s play supports health, wellbeing, learning and social development, and can strengthen community cohesion by bringing children, families and residents together in shared local spaces. This is why the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is investing £18 million through the Playground Fund to support 66 local authorities in England to create, improve or enhance up to 200 playgrounds in areas of greatest need. The fund targets places with higher levels of income deprivation affecting children and weaker existing playground provision, and supports high-quality, accessible and inclusive places to play.

Public playgrounds complement wider Government action to help children be healthier and more active by providing free, local opportunities for outdoor physical activity. The Department will monitor the Playground Fund to build evidence on best practice and interventions.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, pursuant to Answer of 21 August 2026 to Question 11572 on PE and School Sport Partnerships Network, how many primary schools will receive less funding for PE and sport in 2026/27 than they received through the primary PE and Sport Premium in 2025/26.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Minister of State (Education)

The department is maintaining funding for PE and school sport at £1 billion over three years as we move to providing support through a new PE and School Sport Partnerships Network (SSPN).

In the context of moving to the new approach, we have listened to schools and confirmed £150 million PE and Sport Premium for the 2026/27 academic year to support this transition. Transition funding allocations will be published in autumn 2026, in line with standard practice.

The procurement process is ongoing and expected to conclude by the end of 2026, in order for the Partnership Network to start delivering support from April 2027. Funding allocations within the new PE and SSPN will be informed by baseline and ongoing needs assessments undertaken by the National Delivery Partner (NDP), but the approach will focus on ensuring support reaches those most in need.

All state-funded schools will be able to access support through the Network’s universal offer, including professional development and training opportunities. Schools will also be able to request additional support through the School-Requested Intervention pathway and apply for additional funding through School Led Intervention grant opportunities delivered through the Network, subject to the relevant eligibility criteria and application processes.

Following completion of the procurement, the successful NDP will be responsible for developing and proposing the criteria for support delivered through the network. The department will review and approve the proposed criteria before implementation.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, pursuant to Answer of 21 August 2026 to Question 11572 on PE and School Sport Partnerships Network, what criteria will be used to determine which schools are considered most in need of support under the PE and School Sport Partnerships Network.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Minister of State (Education)

The department is maintaining funding for PE and school sport at £1 billion over three years as we move to providing support through a new PE and School Sport Partnerships Network (SSPN).

In the context of moving to the new approach, we have listened to schools and confirmed £150 million PE and Sport Premium for the 2026/27 academic year to support this transition. Transition funding allocations will be published in autumn 2026, in line with standard practice.

The procurement process is ongoing and expected to conclude by the end of 2026, in order for the Partnership Network to start delivering support from April 2027. Funding allocations within the new PE and SSPN will be informed by baseline and ongoing needs assessments undertaken by the National Delivery Partner (NDP), but the approach will focus on ensuring support reaches those most in need.

All state-funded schools will be able to access support through the Network’s universal offer, including professional development and training opportunities. Schools will also be able to request additional support through the School-Requested Intervention pathway and apply for additional funding through School Led Intervention grant opportunities delivered through the Network, subject to the relevant eligibility criteria and application processes.

Following completion of the procurement, the successful NDP will be responsible for developing and proposing the criteria for support delivered through the network. The department will review and approve the proposed criteria before implementation.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of the finding from the Adzuna UK Job Market Report, published on 31 July 2026, that there has been a 45.6% year-on-year reduction in graduate vacancies.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Minister of State (Education)

The Adzuna report provides one indicator of conditions in the market for advertised graduate roles. The department considers that evidence from a range of sources should be used to establish the full picture of graduate outcomes and the wider labour market.

Updated research from the Institute of Fiscal Studies and the 2026 Longitudinal Education Outcomes data shows that higher education continues to offer good value for money for most students, with graduates expected to be on average around £100,000 better off over their lifetime than someone who does not go to university. It also shows that rates of individuals in sustained employment, further study, or both remain consistently higher amongst graduates than amongst those with no higher level qualification, across all combinations of subject area, gender and prior GCSE attainment.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, what powers the Class Unit will have to require other Government departments to change policies that are assessed as contributing to socio-economic disadvantage.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared in due course.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, what specific policies the Class Unit will have responsibility for delivering, as opposed to advising other departments on.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared in due course.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, what proportion of the Social Mobility Commission's total headcount will transfer to the Class Unit.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared in due course.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, how many staff are expected to work in the Class Unit once it is fully operational.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared in due course.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, what arrangements will be in place to ensure independent scrutiny of social mobility.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared in due course.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, what proportion of the resources transferred to the Class Unit will be (a) new funding and (b) transferred from existing programmes or organisations.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared in due course.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, if she will set out the specific outcomes the new Class Unit is expected to achieve during its first three years of operation.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared in due course.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, what the cost to the public purse will be of establishing and operating the Class Unit in each of the next five years.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared in due course.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, with reference to the Office for Equality and Opportunity's press release entitled Time to end class squeamishness: first government unit to improve life chances for working class, published on 9 September 2026, what metrics will be used to assess the effectiveness of the Class Unit.

Answered by Satvir Kaur - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Home Office)

Officials are currently taking forward the implementation of the creation of a new Class Unit and closure of Social Mobility Commission to ensure a smooth, staged transition. All changes will be carried out with appropriate consultation and full support for affected staff. Changes will be handled in line with relevant policies, and in consultation with Trade Unions.

This Government is committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, can thrive. One of the Class Unit’s early priorities will be the socio-economic duty. We are currently working towards commencement, which includes drafting statutory guidance that will clarify how the duty can be applied effectively. Further announcements about the new unit’s role and responsibilities will be shared 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, with reference to the letter entitled Local government reorganisation: programme review and decisions withdrawal letter to council leaders, published on 7 September 2026, whether the Department will publish all non-privileged correspondence relating to the decision to establish five unitary authorities in Essex and the subsequent decision to withdraw that decision.

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

On 7 September 2026, the Secretary of State announced that decisions taken for Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk would be withdrawn and that implementation of other local government reorganisation decisions would be paused while the Government considers next steps.

It is a longstanding principle that the Government does not comment on or publish legal advice. The Government does not routinely publish correspondence relating to ministerial decision-making.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the statement on Local Government Reorganisation of 7 September 2026, what factors, other than legal advice received as part of the judicial review process, contributed to the decision to withdraw the decision on local government reorganisation in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock.

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

On 7 September 2026, the Secretary of State announced that decisions taken for Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk would be withdrawn and that implementation of other local government reorganisation decisions would be paused while the Government considers next steps.

It is a longstanding principle that the Government does not comment on or publish legal advice. The Government does not routinely publish correspondence relating to ministerial decision-making.

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 potential impact of AI-capable data centres on long-term national water demand forecasts.

Answered by Emma Hardy - Minister of State (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

A recent report by the Water Research Centre concluded that existing data centres in England account for just 0.2% of current non-household demand. As the sector grows, Defra is working across government and with the Environment Agency to better understand this expected growth and reduce its impact, including by supporting the rollout of smart meters to improve the evidence base on water us in the non-household market.

The Government expects data centre developers to work closely with water companies to secure sustainable supplies and explore alternative water sources, such as collected rainwater, where suitable.

Data centre proposals are considered through the planning system, and local planning authorities take account of relevant environmental impacts. Prospective AI Growth Zone sites must demonstrate sufficient access to water to support at least 500MW of AI infrastructure through written confirmation from the relevant water supplier.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what plans she has to require operators of AI-capable data centres to report annual water consumption to regulators.

Answered by Emma Hardy - Minister of State (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

A recent report by the Water Research Centre concluded that existing data centres in England account for just 0.2% of current non-household demand. As the sector grows, Defra is working across government and with the Environment Agency to better understand this expected growth and reduce its impact, including by supporting the rollout of smart meters to improve the evidence base on water us in the non-household market.

The Government expects data centre developers to work closely with water companies to secure sustainable supplies and explore alternative water sources, such as collected rainwater, where suitable.

Data centre proposals are considered through the planning system, and local planning authorities take account of relevant environmental impacts. Prospective AI Growth Zone sites must demonstrate sufficient access to water to support at least 500MW of AI infrastructure through written confirmation from the relevant water supplier.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions she has had with local planning authorities on the water requirements of proposed AI-capable data centres.

Answered by Emma Hardy - Minister of State (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

A recent report by the Water Research Centre concluded that existing data centres in England account for just 0.2% of current non-household demand. As the sector grows, Defra is working across government and with the Environment Agency to better understand this expected growth and reduce its impact, including by supporting the rollout of smart meters to improve the evidence base on water us in the non-household market.

The Government expects data centre developers to work closely with water companies to secure sustainable supplies and explore alternative water sources, such as collected rainwater, where suitable.

Data centre proposals are considered through the planning system, and local planning authorities take account of relevant environmental impacts. Prospective AI Growth Zone sites must demonstrate sufficient access to water to support at least 500MW of AI infrastructure through written confirmation from the relevant water supplier.

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 potential impact of proposed AI-capable data centres in Essex on local water resources.

Answered by Emma Hardy - Minister of State (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government recognises that, while data centre water use is likely to remain a small component of national water demand (less than 1%), local impacts may be significant, particularly during periods of peak demand. Defra’s Water Delivery Taskforce is bringing together government, regulators and the water industry to improve the evidence based on data centre water use.

Water companies are not required to supply water for data centre cooling and may refuse a connection where sufficient resources are unavailable. The Government expects developers to work closely with water companies to secure sustainable supplies and explore alternative water sources where possible.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent discussions she has had with a) retailers, b) parking operators and c) local authorities on the appropriate use of parent and child parking spaces.

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

Parent and child bays are not prescribed or required by national legislation. The Department has made no assessment of the adequacy of parent and child parking spaces, or measures to prevent their misuse, in local authority or private car parks.

The provision of parent and child parking bays in private car parks is a matter for the operator. The government is aware of the enforcement challenges to prevent the misuse of these bays. Whilst there have been no recent discussions with retailers on this matter, the government will continue to work closely with representatives for local authorities and parking operators.

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 enforcement measures used by private car park operators to prevent the misuse of parent and child parking bays.

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

Parent and child bays are not prescribed or required by national legislation. The Department has made no assessment of the adequacy of parent and child parking spaces, or measures to prevent their misuse, in local authority or private car parks.

The provision of parent and child parking bays in private car parks is a matter for the operator. The government is aware of the enforcement challenges to prevent the misuse of these bays. Whilst there have been no recent discussions with retailers on this matter, the government will continue to work closely with representatives for local authorities and parking operators.

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 adequacy of the current arrangements for parent and child parking spaces in public car parks.

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

Parent and child bays are not prescribed or required by national legislation. The Department has made no assessment of the adequacy of parent and child parking spaces, or measures to prevent their misuse, in local authority or private car parks.

The provision of parent and child parking bays in private car parks is a matter for the operator. The government is aware of the enforcement challenges to prevent the misuse of these bays. Whilst there have been no recent discussions with retailers on this matter, the government will continue to work closely with representatives for local authorities and parking operators.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what data the Department holds on the number and proportion of rough sleepers who are British Citizens.

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

The government publishes rough sleeping management information, including data on the nationality of people sleeping rough, how many people sleeping rough have left the armed forces within the last 85 days and the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who have moved into accommodation, as well as the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who had previously moved into settled accommodation. You can access the latest data on gov.uk here.

As well as this, the government’s analytical annex to our National Plan to End Homelessness includes research about the causes of rough sleeping, which you can find on gov.uk here.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what data the Department holds on the average length of time people spend sleeping rough before securing settled accommodation.

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

The government publishes rough sleeping management information, including data on the nationality of people sleeping rough, how many people sleeping rough have left the armed forces within the last 85 days and the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who have moved into accommodation, as well as the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who had previously moved into settled accommodation. You can access the latest data on gov.uk here.

As well as this, the government’s analytical annex to our National Plan to End Homelessness includes research about the causes of rough sleeping, which you can find on gov.uk here.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what information her Department holds on the citizenship of rough sleepers.

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

The government publishes rough sleeping management information, including data on the nationality of people sleeping rough, how many people sleeping rough have left the armed forces within the last 85 days and the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who have moved into accommodation, as well as the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who had previously moved into settled accommodation. You can access the latest data on gov.uk here.

As well as this, the government’s analytical annex to our National Plan to End Homelessness includes research about the causes of rough sleeping, which you can find on gov.uk here.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what data the Department holds on the number of people sleeping rough who have previously served in the Armed Forces.

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

The government publishes rough sleeping management information, including data on the nationality of people sleeping rough, how many people sleeping rough have left the armed forces within the last 85 days and the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who have moved into accommodation, as well as the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who had previously moved into settled accommodation. You can access the latest data on gov.uk here.

As well as this, the government’s analytical annex to our National Plan to End Homelessness includes research about the causes of rough sleeping, which you can find on gov.uk here.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent analysis has been made of the potential causes of rough sleeping in England.

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

The government publishes rough sleeping management information, including data on the nationality of people sleeping rough, how many people sleeping rough have left the armed forces within the last 85 days and the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who have moved into accommodation, as well as the number of people sleeping rough over the course of the month who had previously moved into settled accommodation. You can access the latest data on gov.uk here.

As well as this, the government’s analytical annex to our National Plan to End Homelessness includes research about the causes of rough sleeping, which you can find on gov.uk here.

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 adequacy of local authority funding for the maintenance of a) public parks and b) green spaces.

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

The Government recognises that parks and green spaces can make a significant contribution to public health and community wellbeing by supporting physical activity, improving mental health, strengthening social connections, promoting community cohesion and pride in place, and delivering wider environmental benefits. We are therefore committed to supporting Local Authorities in developing best practice to manage parks and green spaces.

Responsibility for funding, managing and maintaining these assets rests primarily with local authorities, and spending decisions are a matter for them. The 2026-27 Local Government Finance Settlement is our most significant step yet to make English local government more sustainable. We are delivering fairer funding, targeting money where it is needed most through the first multi-year Settlement in a decade. By the end of the multi-year Settlement (2028-29), the Government will have provided a 15.5% increase in Core Spending Power for local authorities in England, worth over £11.4 billion, compared to 2025-26. The majority of funding in the Local Government Finance Settlement is unringfenced recognising that local leaders are best placed to identify local priorities.

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 public parks and green spaces on public health and community wellbeing.

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

The Government recognises that parks and green spaces can make a significant contribution to public health and community wellbeing by supporting physical activity, improving mental health, strengthening social connections, promoting community cohesion and pride in place, and delivering wider environmental benefits. We are therefore committed to supporting Local Authorities in developing best practice to manage parks and green spaces.

Responsibility for funding, managing and maintaining these assets rests primarily with local authorities, and spending decisions are a matter for them. The 2026-27 Local Government Finance Settlement is our most significant step yet to make English local government more sustainable. We are delivering fairer funding, targeting money where it is needed most through the first multi-year Settlement in a decade. By the end of the multi-year Settlement (2028-29), the Government will have provided a 15.5% increase in Core Spending Power for local authorities in England, worth over £11.4 billion, compared to 2025-26. The majority of funding in the Local Government Finance Settlement is unringfenced recognising that local leaders are best placed to identify local priorities.

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 condition of public playground equipment owned by local authorities.

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

The Government recognises the importance of safe, high-quality playgrounds for children and families. Responsibility for the provision, inspection, maintenance and management of local authority-owned playgrounds rests with individual local authorities, which are best placed to assess local needs and priorities. My department does not currently plan to issue guidance on these matters but will keep this under review in the usual course of business.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department issues guidance on (a) inspection and (b) maintenance standards for local authority-owned playgrounds.

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

The Government recognises the importance of safe, high-quality playgrounds for children and families. Responsibility for the provision, inspection, maintenance and management of local authority-owned playgrounds rests with individual local authorities, which are best placed to assess local needs and priorities. My department does not currently plan to issue guidance on these matters but will keep this under review in the usual course of business.

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 adequacy of children’s access to a public playground within walking distance of their home.

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

Playgrounds are an important part of healthy, happy and connected communities, supporting children’s physical health, wellbeing and social development. Responsibility for the provision and maintenance of public playgrounds sits mainly with local authorities, who are best placed to understand local need and determine local priorities.

The Government recognises that access to safe, high-quality, accessible and inclusive play spaces varies across England. That is why we are providing the £18 million Playground Fund, which will support 66 local authorities to create, improve or enhance up to 200 playgrounds in areas of greatest need. The Fund has been targeted using national data on child income deprivation, children per playground, playground size and children’s travel distance to playgrounds. Guidance has been issued to local authorities to help them focus on engaging with communities and improving the inclusivity of these spaces. This will help improve access in deprived communities and reduce geographic inequalities.

The National Planning Policy Framework, published in August 2026, strengthens support for new and improved community facilities, including where they are required to support new development. It also safeguards against the loss of playing fields and other formal and informal play spaces.

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 availability of accessible and inclusive playground equipment for children with disabilities.

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

Playgrounds are an important part of healthy, happy and connected communities, supporting children’s physical health, wellbeing and social development. Responsibility for the provision and maintenance of public playgrounds sits mainly with local authorities, who are best placed to understand local need and determine local priorities.

The Government recognises that access to safe, high-quality, accessible and inclusive play spaces varies across England. That is why we are providing the £18 million Playground Fund, which will support 66 local authorities to create, improve or enhance up to 200 playgrounds in areas of greatest need. The Fund has been targeted using national data on child income deprivation, children per playground, playground size and children’s travel distance to playgrounds. Guidance has been issued to local authorities to help them focus on engaging with communities and improving the inclusivity of these spaces. This will help improve access in deprived communities and reduce geographic inequalities.

The National Planning Policy Framework, published in August 2026, strengthens support for new and improved community facilities, including where they are required to support new development. It also safeguards against the loss of playing fields and other formal and informal play spaces.

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 adequacy of the provision of public playgrounds in England.

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

Playgrounds are an important part of healthy, happy and connected communities, supporting children’s physical health, wellbeing and social development. Responsibility for the provision and maintenance of public playgrounds sits mainly with local authorities, who are best placed to understand local need and determine local priorities.

The Government recognises that access to safe, high-quality, accessible and inclusive play spaces varies across England. That is why we are providing the £18 million Playground Fund, which will support 66 local authorities to create, improve or enhance up to 200 playgrounds in areas of greatest need. The Fund has been targeted using national data on child income deprivation, children per playground, playground size and children’s travel distance to playgrounds. Guidance has been issued to local authorities to help them focus on engaging with communities and improving the inclusivity of these spaces. This will help improve access in deprived communities and reduce geographic inequalities.

The National Planning Policy Framework, published in August 2026, strengthens support for new and improved community facilities, including where they are required to support new development. It also safeguards against the loss of playing fields and other formal and informal play spaces.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Prime Minister's speech entitled New PM says government can bring back hope to Britain, and launches drive to end rough sleeping at the earliest opportunity, published on 20 July 2026, whether the Government plans to publish regular progress reports on the delivery of the additional funding announced in that speech.

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

We will continue to collect and publish Rough Sleeping Management Information to assess progress. This is published on gov.uk here.

You can find more details about the Rough Sleeping Programme in the Written Ministerial Statement published here.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what data she holds on the number of public playgrounds that have been (a) opened and (b) closed in each of the last five years.

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

The department does not hold central records of the number of public playgrounds open or closed.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent assessment her Department has made of the number of integrated care boards that commission dedicated services for people with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided on 15 June in response to Question 6594.

Departmental officials meet on a regular basis with patient organisations, integrated care boards and other stakeholders to discuss the improvement of National Health Service care for a range of conditions. External meetings of that nature held by ministers and senior officials are reported on a quarterly basis in the Department’s transparency publications.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions her Department has had with integrated care boards on the adequacy of commissioning of services for people with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided on 15 June in response to Question 6594.

Departmental officials meet on a regular basis with patient organisations, integrated care boards and other stakeholders to discuss the improvement of National Health Service care for a range of conditions. External meetings of that nature held by ministers and senior officials are reported on a quarterly basis in the Department’s transparency publications.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent assessment she has made of the adequacy of availability of NHS specialist clinics for people with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided on 15 June in response to Question 6594.

Departmental officials meet on a regular basis with patient organisations, integrated care boards and other stakeholders to discuss the improvement of National Health Service care for a range of conditions. External meetings of that nature held by ministers and senior officials are reported on a quarterly basis in the Department’s transparency publications.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions her Department has had with patient organisations representing people with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome on improving NHS services.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided on 15 June in response to Question 6594.

Departmental officials meet on a regular basis with patient organisations, integrated care boards and other stakeholders to discuss the improvement of National Health Service care for a range of conditions. External meetings of that nature held by ministers and senior officials are reported on a quarterly basis in the Department’s transparency publications.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent assessment has been made of regional variation in access to specialist services for people with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided on 15 June in response to Question 6594.

Departmental officials meet on a regular basis with patient organisations, integrated care boards and other stakeholders to discuss the improvement of National Health Service care for a range of conditions. External meetings of that nature held by ministers and senior officials are reported on a quarterly basis in the Department’s transparency publications.

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what steps she is taking to ensure that residents in rural communities can access emergency communications where there is a) limited or b) no reliable mobile phone signal.

Answered by Ian Murray - Minister of State (Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport)

The Government recognises the importance of reliable emergency communications in rural communities. If a customer's mobile network is unavailable, all emergency 999 calls automatically switch to another available network where coverage is present.

Where no mobile coverage is available from any operator, residents can continue to use alternative means of communication, including landlines and Wifi calling from mobiles where available.

The Government continues to work closely with mobile network operators to ensure there is high-quality digital infrastructure available right across the UK. Through the Shared Rural Network, a joint deal between government and mobile network operators, we are delivering new 4G coverage in areas where there was no coverage previously.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what recent steps the Department has taken to reduce response times for correspondence from (a) the public and (b) Members raising constituency casework.

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

The Home Office is committed to providing timely responses to correspondence from members of the public and Members of Parliament. Performance against service standards is kept under review, and the Department continually reviews its processes to identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce response times.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what the Department's average response time is for responding to correspondence from (a) the public and (b) Members raising constituency casework.

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

The Home Office is committed to providing timely responses to correspondence from members of the public and Members of Parliament. Performance against service standards is kept under review, and the Department continually reviews its processes to identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce response times.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the press release entitled Stronger protections and greater confidence for renters, published on 9 September 2026, what the estimated cost is of establishing and operating the new rent determination service within the Valuation Office.

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

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the press release entitled Stronger protections and greater confidence for renters, published on 9 September 2026, what estimate he has made of the expected average time taken by the Valuation Office to determine a challenge to a rent increase.

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

We are working across Government to agree the detailed design of this service, which will provide faster and simpler resolutions of rent disputes. 

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the statement entitled The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their continued strikes on Saudi Arabia: UK statement at the UN Security Council, published on 10 September 2026, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of renewed conflict in Yemen on displacement of Yemeni nationals and migration flows towards neighbouring countries.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The recent escalation has significantly worsened an already dire humanitarian crisis, placing the most vulnerable Yemenis at even greater risk.

Increased displacement is putting further pressure on communities and humanitarian services, in Yemen and in neighbouring countries. Within Yemen 126,000 people have already been displaced as a result of the escalation and we expect this figure to continue rising. Alongside displacement, we are seeing signs of rising food insecurity, and health, and protection needs, particularly for women and children. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) have confirmed that they are providing assistance to least 3,400 Yemenis who have already fled to neighbouring Djibouti.

The UK is using our leadership role, including at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), to help mobilise an international response to the humanitarian consequences of this conflict. The UK remains one of the largest humanitarian donors in Yemen and is working closely with the UN and partners to ensure that UK Aid and broader assistance reaches the most vulnerable.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent steps the Department has taken to reduce response times for correspondence from (a) the public and (b) Members raising constituency casework.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Department is committed to meeting the target of responding to at least 80% of correspondence from Hon. Members, stakeholders, and members of the public within 20 working days.

The Department receives some of the highest volumes of, and most sensitive, correspondence across then Government. Ministerial correspondence performance data by the Department is published annually by the Cabinet Office at the following link:

www.gov.uk/government/collections/data-on-responses-to-correspondence-from-mps-and-peers

A summary of our public correspondence response information is published annually in our annual report. I refer the Hon Member to Pages 112 to 113 of the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts for 2024/25. Similar data will be published in due course in the 2025/26 annual report.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what the Department's average response time is for responding to correspondence from (a) the public and (b) Members raising constituency casework.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Department is committed to meeting the target of responding to at least 80% of correspondence from Hon. Members, stakeholders, and members of the public within 20 working days.

The Department receives some of the highest volumes of, and most sensitive, correspondence across then Government. Ministerial correspondence performance data by the Department is published annually by the Cabinet Office at the following link:

www.gov.uk/government/collections/data-on-responses-to-correspondence-from-mps-and-peers

A summary of our public correspondence response information is published annually in our annual report. I refer the Hon Member to Pages 112 to 113 of the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts for 2024/25. Similar data will be published in due course in the 2025/26 annual report.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, with reference to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's s document entitled The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their continued strikes on Saudi Arabia: UK statement at the UN Security Council, published on 10 September 2026, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of disruption to Red Sea shipping on UK importers, exporters and supply chains.

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 Government is closely monitoring the impact of disruption in the Middle East to key shipping routes. This includes regularly assessing the impact on UK supply chains, disruption to trade, including any rerouting of container ships, and of increases in prices of critical goods, shipping and energy. In doing so, we are actively drawing input from businesses on supply chain pressures and their own contingency planning. We also continue to work with businesses and our international partners to protect trade and investment across the Gulf region.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether she has made an assessment of the adequacy of engagement of senior leaders at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust; and what steps she is taking to improve (a) leadership visibility and (b) staff engagement.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

These are matters for the Trust, but the Department understands that their senior leadership team meets regularly to focus on areas identified by the Care Quality Commission and the Trust’s own internal review, and has also put in place processes for staff to escalate issues with senior leaders, including an option for reporting concerns confidentially.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether she has discussions with Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust leadership on concerns raised by CQC inspectors.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

These are matters for the Trust, but the Department understands that their senior leadership team meets regularly to focus on areas identified by the Care Quality Commission and the Trust’s own internal review, and has also put in place processes for staff to escalate issues with senior leaders, including an option for reporting concerns confidentially.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the press release entitled Stronger protections and greater confidence for renters, published on 9 September 2026, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the new rent determination service on landlords' ability to increase rents to reflect changes in costs.

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

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the statement entitled The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their continued strikes on Saudi Arabia: UK statement at the UN Security Council, published on 10 September 2026, whether he intends to allocate military resources to monitor and respond to Houthi activity in Yemen.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The Houthis pose a significant threat to regional security and to the safe passage of international trade through the Red Sea. We condemn the Houthi attacks, and extend our sympathies to those affected by Houthi attacks, including civilians in Saudi Arabia and Yemen, and continue to work closely with our Saudi partners.

The Government is monitoring developments closely and remains in regular contact with Saudi Arabia.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the statement entitled The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their continued strikes on Saudi Arabia: UK statement at the UN Security Council, published on 10 September 2026, what diplomatic and security measures he is considering with international partners to prevent renewed conflict in Yemen from developing into a wider regional issue.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK stands firmly with our friends in Saudi Arabia and the internationally recognised Government of Yemen against the Houthis' renewed and unprovoked attacks, which have injured innocent civilians. We will continue working closely with our partners to protect civilians and maintain humanitarian access.

On 10 September, the United Kingdom joined Bahrain in calling an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council. The Foreign Secretary spoke on 12 September with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and I spoke to the Prime Minister of Yemen on 26th August, and the Foreign Minister of Yemen on 10th September. Both he and I are closely engaged with our Saudi and Yemeni Government counterparts, and with regional and international partners in response to these developments.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the statement entitled The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their continued strikes on Saudi Arabia: UK statement at the UN Security Council, published on 10 September 2026, what discussions he has had with regional partners on mitigating the risk of renewed conflict in Yemen causing wider regional instability.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK stands firmly with our friends in Saudi Arabia and the internationally recognised Government of Yemen against the Houthis' renewed and unprovoked attacks, which have injured innocent civilians. We will continue working closely with our partners to protect civilians and maintain humanitarian access.

On 10 September, the United Kingdom joined Bahrain in calling an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council. The Foreign Secretary spoke on 12 September with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and I spoke to the Prime Minister of Yemen on 26th August, and the Foreign Minister of Yemen on 10th September. Both he and I are closely engaged with our Saudi and Yemeni Government counterparts, and with regional and international partners in response to these developments.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his Department's document entitled The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their continued strikes on Saudi Arabia: UK statement at the UN Security Council, published on 10 September 2026, what recent discussions he has had with international shipping and maritime security partners on contingency measures to maintain freedom of navigation through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Houthis' decision to resume conflict in Yemen, attack Government of Yemen positions, advance towards the Bab al-Mandeb, and launch strikes against Saudi Arabia is reckless and unacceptable, following years of efforts to constructively engage them in dialogue towards peace. It has endangered and displaced innocent civilians, undermines regional stability, and threatens one of the world's most important trade routes.

The Bab al-Mandeb Strait connects the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, a crucial maritime corridor for a significant proportion of global trade. Any disruption therefore increases costs for businesses, undermines supply chains and puts further pressure on the UK economy. This is why our focus remains on helping to protect civilians, supporting regional stability and encouraging de-escalation. The UK continues to work closely with like-minded partners on maritime security and efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his Department's document entitled The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their continued strikes on Saudi Arabia: UK statement at the UN Security Council, published on 10 September 2026, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of renewed Houthi activity on the reliability and cost of commercial shipping through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Houthis' decision to resume conflict in Yemen, attack Government of Yemen positions, advance towards the Bab al-Mandeb, and launch strikes against Saudi Arabia is reckless and unacceptable, following years of efforts to constructively engage them in dialogue towards peace. It has endangered and displaced innocent civilians, undermines regional stability, and threatens one of the world's most important trade routes.

The Bab al-Mandeb Strait connects the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, a crucial maritime corridor for a significant proportion of global trade. Any disruption therefore increases costs for businesses, undermines supply chains and puts further pressure on the UK economy. This is why our focus remains on helping to protect civilians, supporting regional stability and encouraging de-escalation. The UK continues to work closely with like-minded partners on maritime security and efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions have taken place with the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government on the potential impact of no recourse to public funds cases on adult social care expenditure by local authorities.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

On 29 July, as set out in the link below, the Prime Minister set out his objectives to reform the social care system, and brought forward the timetable for Baroness Casey’s commission to inform that reform programme:

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-sets-out-new-path-to-fix-social-care-together-29-july-2026

All aspects of the current system will be reviewed as part of that process, and we will continue to update Parliament on a regular basis.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of supporting people with no recourse to public funds on local authority adult social care budgets.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

On 29 July, as set out in the link below, the Prime Minister set out his objectives to reform the social care system, and brought forward the timetable for Baroness Casey’s commission to inform that reform programme:

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-sets-out-new-path-to-fix-social-care-together-29-july-2026

All aspects of the current system will be reviewed as part of that process, and we will continue to update Parliament on a regular basis.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of the Autumn Budget 2025 on the profitability of pubs.

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

The potential impacts of policy changes are carefully considered as part of policy development. We are mindful of cost pressures facing businesses like pubs, and the importance of profitability to having a sustainable operating environment for pubs across the country

The Treasury also engages regularly with the pub and wider hospitality sector to understand the challenges they face

At the Autumn Budget 2025, the previous Government introduced new lower tax rates for eligible retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) properties, including pubs. The Government continues to keep all areas of the tax system under review, with future decisions taken at fiscal events under the normal process.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what steps he is taking to encourage employers adopting artificial intelligence to maintain a) entry-level employment and b) training pathways for young people.

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

AI is transforming the labour market, and the government is acting to ensure young people can access entry-level roles and meaningful career pathways.

Backed by £20 million, the Early Careers Jobs Alliance brings together government, employers, trade unions and young people, initially focussed on the digital and technology sector, to map how entry-level work is changing and recommend how businesses can redesign roles whilst maintaining entry-level pathways.

The Government is also investing in AI upskilling and training initiatives, including the TechLocal AI Professional Degree and Traineeship Accelerator, providing £7.8 million to develop innovative courses, and the AI Skills Boost campaign which aims to upskill 10 million workers in AI skills by 2030.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what steps he is taking to promote good practice among employers in communicating recruitment decisions to job applicants.

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

The government recognises concerns raised by young people who contributed to Alan Milburn's interim review of the rise in the number of 16 to 24-year-olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Many reported submitting large numbers of job applications but receiving either no response or only automated rejections.

The government is considering these concerns and will respond to any recommendations arising from Alan Milburn's final review once it is published.

The government does not collect data on job applications. Recruitment practices, including whether unsuccessful candidates are notified about the outcome of their application, are matters for individual employers. Employers must, however, comply with their obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and must not discriminate unlawfully during recruitment or selection processes.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what data his Department holds on the proportion of job applicants who are not informed of the outcome of their applications.

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

The government recognises concerns raised by young people who contributed to Alan Milburn's interim review of the rise in the number of 16 to 24-year-olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Many reported submitting large numbers of job applications but receiving either no response or only automated rejections.

The government is considering these concerns and will respond to any recommendations arising from Alan Milburn's final review once it is published.

The government does not collect data on job applications. Recruitment practices, including whether unsuccessful candidates are notified about the outcome of their application, are matters for individual employers. Employers must, however, comply with their obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and must not discriminate unlawfully during recruitment or selection processes.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to the press release entitled Court upholds CMA findings that firms charged excessive and unfair prices for lifesaving NHS-funded medicine, published on 29 July 2026, what steps the Government is taking to recover costs incurred by the NHS as a result of the excessive and unfair pricing identified by the Competition and Markets Authority.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

Anti-competitive behaviour, including excessive pricing and abuse of a dominant position, is a matter for the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The Department asks the CMA to investigate where it has concerns about abuses of competition law for generic medicines and where companies are found by the CMA to be in breach of the legislation, the Department will seek damages and invest that money back into the National Health Service.

As the press release cited by the Hon. Member demonstrates, the current legal and enforcement regime in this area allows for effective action to be taken in relevant cases, and the responsible agencies will continue to take such action whenever necessary.

Following the recent Court of Appeal judgment upholding the CMA's findings in relation to hydrocortisone tablets, the Department is considering the appropriate next steps. Any sums recovered are returned to the NHS and support frontline patient care.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to the press release entitled Court upholds CMA findings that firms charged excessive and unfair prices for lifesaving NHS-funded medicine, published on 29 July 2026, what assessment has been made of whether existing legislation provides sufficient powers to prevent excessive pricing of NHS-funded medicines.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

Anti-competitive behaviour, including excessive pricing and abuse of a dominant position, is a matter for the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The Department asks the CMA to investigate where it has concerns about abuses of competition law for generic medicines and where companies are found by the CMA to be in breach of the legislation, the Department will seek damages and invest that money back into the National Health Service.

As the press release cited by the Hon. Member demonstrates, the current legal and enforcement regime in this area allows for effective action to be taken in relevant cases, and the responsible agencies will continue to take such action whenever necessary.

Following the recent Court of Appeal judgment upholding the CMA's findings in relation to hydrocortisone tablets, the Department is considering the appropriate next steps. Any sums recovered are returned to the NHS and support frontline patient care.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to the press release entitled Court upholds CMA findings that firms charged excessive and unfair prices for lifesaving NHS-funded medicine, published on 29 July 2026, what recent discussions havetaken place with the Competition and Markets Authority on preventing excessive pricing of NHS-funded medicines.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

Anti-competitive behaviour, including excessive pricing and abuse of a dominant position, is a matter for the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The Department asks the CMA to investigate where it has concerns about abuses of competition law for generic medicines and where companies are found by the CMA to be in breach of the legislation, the Department will seek damages and invest that money back into the National Health Service.

As the press release cited by the Hon. Member demonstrates, the current legal and enforcement regime in this area allows for effective action to be taken in relevant cases, and the responsible agencies will continue to take such action whenever necessary.

Following the recent Court of Appeal judgment upholding the CMA's findings in relation to hydrocortisone tablets, the Department is considering the appropriate next steps. Any sums recovered are returned to the NHS and support frontline patient care.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to the press release entitled Court upholds CMA findings that firms charged excessive and unfair prices for lifesaving NHS-funded medicine, published on 29 July 2026, whether the Government plans to introduce additional safeguards to prevent a recurrence of excessive pricing of NHS-funded medicines.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

Anti-competitive behaviour, including excessive pricing and abuse of a dominant position, is a matter for the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The Department asks the CMA to investigate where it has concerns about abuses of competition law for generic medicines and where companies are found by the CMA to be in breach of the legislation, the Department will seek damages and invest that money back into the National Health Service.

As the press release cited by the Hon. Member demonstrates, the current legal and enforcement regime in this area allows for effective action to be taken in relevant cases, and the responsible agencies will continue to take such action whenever necessary.

Following the recent Court of Appeal judgment upholding the CMA's findings in relation to hydrocortisone tablets, the Department is considering the appropriate next steps. Any sums recovered are returned to the NHS and support frontline patient care.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to the press release entitled Court upholds CMA findings that firms charged excessive and unfair prices for lifesaving NHS-funded medicine, published on 29 July 2026, what recent discussions have taken place with NHS England on measures to prevent excessive pricing of medicines supplied to the NHS.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

Anti-competitive behaviour, including excessive pricing and abuse of a dominant position, is a matter for the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The Department asks the CMA to investigate where it has concerns about abuses of competition law for generic medicines and where companies are found by the CMA to be in breach of the legislation, the Department will seek damages and invest that money back into the National Health Service.

As the press release cited by the Hon. Member demonstrates, the current legal and enforcement regime in this area allows for effective action to be taken in relevant cases, and the responsible agencies will continue to take such action whenever necessary.

Following the recent Court of Appeal judgment upholding the CMA's findings in relation to hydrocortisone tablets, the Department is considering the appropriate next steps. Any sums recovered are returned to the NHS and support frontline patient care.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what estimate she has made of the number of patients experiencing difficulties accessing prescription services through the NHS App.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Hon. Member can find advice on how to use the NHS App to order prescriptions at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/prescriptions/

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what data she holds on the number of technical failures experienced by patients when using the NHS App.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Hon. Member can find advice on how to use the NHS App to order prescriptions at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/prescriptions/

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of difficulties accessing prescription services through the NHS App on patients’ ability to obtain medicines in a timely manner.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Hon. Member can find advice on how to use the NHS App to order prescriptions at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/prescriptions/

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of the ability of patients to request repeat prescriptions through the NHS App for medicines that were previously prescribed as acute medications.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Hon. Member can find advice on how to use the NHS App to order prescriptions at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/prescriptions/

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether NHS England provides guidance to GP practices on enabling patients to request regular medicines through the NHS App where those medicines are not configured as repeat prescriptions.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Hon. Member can find advice on how to use the NHS App to order prescriptions at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/prescriptions/

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of difficulty using the NHS App on accessing NHS prescriptions.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Hon. Member can find advice on how to use the NHS App to order prescriptions at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/prescriptions/

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of the a) accessibility and b) usability of the NHS App prescription service.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Hon. Member can find advice on how to use the NHS App to order prescriptions at the following link:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/prescriptions/

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the Written Ministerial Statement entitled Iran Sanctions, published on 8 September 2026, what assessment has been made of the likely effectiveness of the new sanctions in constraining Iran's nuclear programme.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statement on 8 September, which explains that the financial measures in the Statutory Instrument will further reduce the Government of Iran's ability to access the UK financial system and raise funds in support of its nuclear programme. The legislation also expands our powers to sanction ships - strengthening our ability to target ships enabling and facilitating Iran's nuclear programme and malign and destabilising behaviour.

As part of the UK's responsible approach to the use of sanctions, the Government continues to work closely with international partners to ensure our sanctions are effective and to minimise opportunities for sanctions evasion, or unintended consequences.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for the Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing accidental wildfire incidents.

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

We recognise that clear public information helps stop wildfires starting and helps people protect themselves and their property. We are making wildfire advice more visible, including through social media during high-risk periods, the Cabinet Office Prepare website and through educational resources made freely available on the online StayWise platform as the educational arm of the Department’s Fire Kills campaign.

As part of the upcoming Wildfire Summit and the Acton Plan being developed, we will consider what more we can do to drive improvements across wildfire as a risk.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the Written Ministerial Statement entitled Iran Sanctions, published on 8 September 2026, what recent discussions his Department has had with international partners on coordinating sanctions against Iran to maximise their effectiveness and minimise opportunities for sanctions evasion.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statement on 8 September, which explains that the financial measures in the Statutory Instrument will further reduce the Government of Iran's ability to access the UK financial system and raise funds in support of its nuclear programme. The legislation also expands our powers to sanction ships - strengthening our ability to target ships enabling and facilitating Iran's nuclear programme and malign and destabilising behaviour.

As part of the UK's responsible approach to the use of sanctions, the Government continues to work closely with international partners to ensure our sanctions are effective and to minimise opportunities for sanctions evasion, or unintended consequences.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the Written Ministerial Statement entitled Iran Sanctions, published on 8 September 2026, what assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the sanctions mitigations and general licences in minimising unintended economic consequences for the UK and its partners.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

I refer the hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statement on 8 September, which explains that the financial measures in the Statutory Instrument will further reduce the Government of Iran's ability to access the UK financial system and raise funds in support of its nuclear programme. The legislation also expands our powers to sanction ships - strengthening our ability to target ships enabling and facilitating Iran's nuclear programme and malign and destabilising behaviour.

As part of the UK's responsible approach to the use of sanctions, the Government continues to work closely with international partners to ensure our sanctions are effective and to minimise opportunities for sanctions evasion, or unintended consequences.

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 new development on the availability of green space in a) urban and b) rural communities.

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

The Government recognises the importance of publicly available green space for the health and wellbeing of communities. The Department has not made a specific assessment of trends in the level of loss of publicly available green space in England over the last three years, or the impact of new development on the availability of green space in urban and rural communities. However, the Government collects data on access to green and blue space. The latest data shows that 80% of households in England have access to at least one green or blue space within a 15-minute walk.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), published in August 2026, sets out that development plans should set local standards for the provision of different types of recreational land and facilities, as well as the provision of green infrastructure, in ways which complement each other and draw on Natural England’s Green Infrastructure Standards. These include a standard on accessible green space which sets criteria on size, proximity and quality. Policies for informal recreation should aim to secure a connected network of high quality, inclusive and accessible opportunities as part of the wider network of green space provision. The new NPPF also safeguards against the loss of open space, sport and recreation facilities.

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 trends in the level of loss of publicly available green space in England over the last three years.

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

The Government recognises the importance of publicly available green space for the health and wellbeing of communities. The Department has not made a specific assessment of trends in the level of loss of publicly available green space in England over the last three years, or the impact of new development on the availability of green space in urban and rural communities. However, the Government collects data on access to green and blue space. The latest data shows that 80% of households in England have access to at least one green or blue space within a 15-minute walk.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), published in August 2026, sets out that development plans should set local standards for the provision of different types of recreational land and facilities, as well as the provision of green infrastructure, in ways which complement each other and draw on Natural England’s Green Infrastructure Standards. These include a standard on accessible green space which sets criteria on size, proximity and quality. Policies for informal recreation should aim to secure a connected network of high quality, inclusive and accessible opportunities as part of the wider network of green space provision. The new NPPF also safeguards against the loss of open space, sport and recreation facilities.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what the Department's average response time is for responding to correspondence from (a) the public and (b) Members raising constituency casework.

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

The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade recognises the importance of timely and accurate responses to correspondence.

The Cabinet Office sets a maximum target deadline of 20 working days for departments and agencies to respond to correspondence, and it is the responsibility of the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade to ensure we have the resources and processes in place to respond to correspondence within this deadline.

The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade works collaboratively with the Cabinet Office and other Government departments to review and update correspondence policy and processes as required.

The Department does not specifically record performance on average response times for responding to members raising constituency casework, but in 2026 has responded to 81% of correspondence from the public within 15 working days (as of 20th September).

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what recent steps the Department has taken to reduce response times for correspondence from (a) the public and (b) Members raising constituency casework.

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

The Department aims to respond to correspondence within 20 working days, as per the target set by the Cabinet Office. The Department has taken a number of steps to reduce response times for correspondence, including bringing extra resources into the correspondence team and improving internal processes.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to her Department's press release entitled Government orders that public spending must back British jobs and skills in every postcode, published on 5 August 2026, what recent discussions her Department has had with small and medium-sized businesses on the potential impact of the proposed procurement requirements on their ability to bid for government contracts.

Answered by Mark Ferguson - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Government is committed to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises across the country. The government issued a public consultation on procurement reform last year and has continued to engage stakeholders, including the Federation of Small Businesses. Streamlining the social value requirements in central government procurement will simplify the procurement process and make it easier for businesses of all sizes to bid for government contracts.

Battle of Britain Day 2026

Baby Loss Awareness Week

150th anniversary of the Cruelty to Animals Act 1876

Publication of Legal Advice on Local Government Reorganisation

25th anniversary of 9-11 attacks

Free short-stay parking to support high streets and town centres

National strategy for fertility

Miscarriage care

Found: WRP0015) 85 See, for example: Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP (WRP0020), Green Party MPs (WRP0023), and James McMurdock