HMRC Impact Analysis: Customs

Debate between Jesse Norman and Michael Tomlinson

Tuesday 8th October 2019 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

If the appetite of the hon. Member for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr (Jonathan Edwards) remains unsatisfied by that ministerial reply, my counsel is that he should read the biography of Edmund Burke that the Minister penned, which is, at any rate, a stimulating read.

[Michael Tomlinson (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (Con)]

How many businesses would be affected if we left the EU without a deal—a deal that some Opposition Members seem to be opposing?

[Jesse Norman]

As my hon. Friend will know, there are over 150,000 VAT-registered businesses that trade with the EU, and another 100,000, we believe, that are not VAT-registered. If they wish to continue to trade with the EU—that trade may be just part of their business—they will experience some effect. It would be impossible for me to improve on the Speaker’s last comment, but if I might direct my hon. Friend to my book on Adam Smith, he will see that economies are dynamic, as has been recognised since the 18th century. We would expect the dynamic effects of the change in our status to offset many of the concerns raised in the impact assessment.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jesse Norman and Michael Tomlinson

Thursday 11th October 2018 Commons Chamber

[Michael Tomlinson (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (Con)]

I acknowledge the Secretary of State’s work to reduce congestion in the south-west, but may I urge him to look specifically at increasing capacity and reducing congestion on the A31 in Dorset?

[Jesse Norman]

As my hon. Friend will be aware, we have invested heavily in the A303. We have been looking closely at the A358 corridor and upgrading the A30, so I will absolutely discuss further with him the particular road he has in mind.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jesse Norman and Michael Tomlinson

Tuesday 8th November 2016 Commons Chamber

[Jesse Norman]

Of course, in the context of the steel industry, it is important to recognise the commitment that the Government have made to Hinkley Point C—a major industrial commitment of their own. I recognise the hon. Gentleman’s point, but we are not going to be railroaded into going beyond the timetable that has already been described. An orderly process is in place, a highly respected former Minister is running the thing, and we will be looking at the issue with the care and consideration that it deserves.

[Michael Tomlinson (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (Con)]

It is reliable, it is green, it would form an important part of our energy mix—and it would boost the south-west economy to boot: will the Minister support it?