Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Kirsteen Sullivan and Lisa Nandy

Thursday 16th April 2026 Commons Chamber

[Lisa Nandy]

In a rare moment of agreement, I agree with the hon. Gentleman that the gambling industry brings joy to a lot of people. He and I have discussed the harms that affect a minority of people. They are significant and important, but the industry as a whole brings positive benefits to the United Kingdom. I think he is underplaying the significant pressures on high street businesses that have existed over the last couple of decades—something that, frankly, his Government did absolutely nothing about over the 14 years that they were in government. We are dealing with those.

[Kirsteen Sullivan (Bathgate and Linlithgow) (Lab/Co-op)]

T2. My constituency has always been a hotbed of musical talent and creativity. The newly approved Bathgate Music Hub will be an excellent addition to community-run venues that support local musicians. Co-operative and community-owned models increasingly safeguard and grow live music venues. How does the Department support these models so that towns like Bathgate can fully benefit from community-run clubs and venues?