Business of the House

Jon Pearce Excerpts

Thursday 11th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising such an important point, as is his custom in this House. As he knows, the UK is committed to defending freedom of religion or belief for all, both offline and online. The Foreign Office regularly engages with Governments directly to raise areas of concern. I will make sure that these concerns are brought to the attention of the Foreign Secretary, and that the hon. Gentleman gets an answer.

[Jon Pearce (High Peak) (Lab)]

In High Peak, we boast several amazing mountain rescue teams, including those of Glossop, Buxton, Edale and Kinder. These are all made up of volunteers, who go out in all weathers, in the most hazardous circumstances, and they save lives day in and day out. I am proud to champion the work that they do. We had a big win in the Budget, with the announcement that vehicle tax is being scrapped for search and rescue vehicles; that will save the teams thousands of pounds. Will the Leader of the House arrange a debate in Government time on what more we can do to support these amazing people and their life- saving work?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend raises such an important matter, and I join him in celebrating the crucial lifesaving work done by mountain rescue teams in his area and across the country. His is a very beautiful area for both residents and the many visitors he gets. Unfortunately, mountain rescue teams are very active at all times of year, and they do an absolutely fantastic job. I know that Members have welcomed, as he has, the changes to vehicle excise duty announced in the Budget, but there are perhaps other things we can explore. If he seeks an Adjournment debate, or uses the pre-recess Adjournment debate to amplify his message, we will see where that leads.