Business of the House

Jim Dickson Excerpts

Thursday 12th December 2024 Commons Chamber

[Lucy Powell]

I absolutely will. My hon. Friend has been a dogged campaigner for Doncaster airport, and I am thrilled that he got to see the first flight to that airport in many years. I also congratulate Mayor Ros Jones and 2Excel on all the work that they are doing to ensure that this important airport in my hon. Friend’s constituency goes from strength to strength.

[Jim Dickson (Dartford) (Lab)]

Earlier this year, Swanscombe and Greenhithe town council in my constituency applied in round 4, window 1, of applications to the community ownership fund for money to refurbish Swanscombe pavilion. That pavilion once was, and could again be, a wonderful hub for our community, providing opportunities for people to engage in sports, culture and arts. The council was told that decision making had been put on hold for the general election, and has not yet received a yes or no from the Government. Might the Leader of the House arrange for the relevant Minister to make a statement to the House, giving clarity on whether crucial community projects such as Swanscombe pavilion will receive the funding that they so desperately need?

[Lucy Powell]

I am sorry to hear that my hon. Friend has not had a response about Swanscombe pavilion in his constituency. The vital role that these hubs—these culture and leisure facilities—play in our local communities cannot be overestimated, and I will ensure that he gets a ministerial response forthwith.