Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Josh Fenton-Glynn and Chris McDonald

Tuesday 24th March 2026 Commons Chamber

[Josh Fenton-Glynn (Calder Valley) (Lab)]

T2. Manufacturers have been grappling with energy costs long before the current Iran conflict, hitting Calder Valley firms. Siddall & Hilton, which makes fences, is seeing costs four times higher than European competitors, and finishing company H&C Whitehead has seen its energy bills double to £22,000 a month. Will the Minister meet me to discuss how we can support smaller firms and ensure that Government support schemes help energy-intensive firms?

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Chris McDonald)]

My hon. Friend is right to point out the importance of finishing companies. I know that some spinning and weaving businesses are included in the supercharger, but finishing is often not, even though it is done in the same factory. Clearly, whether they are waterproofing sou’westers or fireproofing mattresses, these businesses are important. I would be happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss the upcoming supercharger review and what options there may be for those businesses.