Oral Answers to Questions

Kevin Foster Excerpts

Wednesday 11th January 2023 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jack]

We welcome all EU citizens with settled status and think it is absolutely right that those systems are in place. If the hon. Gentleman has any further questions regarding the matter, I suggest he raise the matter at Home Office questions. I think the system that we have is working and is fair.

[Kevin Foster (Torbay) (Con)]

When conducting his assessment, did the Secretary of State include figures for the impact of implementing the Schengen borders code between Scotland and England, including the requirements for border infrastructure, that would be required if we listened to the SNP and implemented its policies?

[Mr Jack]

My hon. Friend makes a good point. There is not just the issue of freedom of movement of people across the United Kingdom, but the fact that while 20% of Scotland’s trade is with the EU and 20% with the rest of the world, 60% is with the rest of the United Kingdom.

--- Later in debate ---

[The Prime Minister]

With regard to funding, we announced in the autumn statement £2 billion of extra funding for our schools. I am also proud that this Government have introduced the world-leading, world-first Online Safety Bill, which specifically improves protections for children and puts very strict obligations and penalties on tech companies for enforcing them.

[Kevin Foster (Torbay) (Con)]

Q12. The building a brighter future project for Torbay Hospital will be the biggest single investment in south Devon’s healthcare services since the NHS was founded in 1948. Can my right hon. Friend assure me that the Government’s commitment to it remains unchanged?

[The Prime Minister]

My hon. Friend is a fantastic champion for his local hospital and constituents. I am pleased to say that the new hospital scheme for Torbay is part of our plan to deliver dozens more hospitals by 2030. We remain committed to the delivery of that new hospital, and I am pleased his trust is talking to the new hospital programme team about how to progress those plans.