British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme

Debate between Lee Anderson and Ian Lavery

Monday 22nd June 2026 Commons Chamber

[Lee Anderson]

The hon. Gentleman makes a good point. Members of both schemes need the justice that they deserve.

I live in a coalmining community; I was born there, and I have lived there all my life. I feel incredibly proud of the contribution that my community has made to this country, but I feel incredibly sad when I look at what has happened since all the pits closed in the ’80s and ’90s. As I said, that is because of union leaders and politicians in this place who destroyed our industry, and they will never be forgiven for doing that. However, politicians in this place now have a chance to make some amends and give the miners the justice that they deserve.

[Ian Lavery (Blyth and Ashington) (Lab)]

A number of years ago, the Business and Trade Committee came forward with recommendations, which were totally ignored by the Government of the day. The Labour party has been in office for just under two years and has made tremendous strides, which has had a huge impact on members of both schemes. Does the hon. Member agree that is the case?

[Lee Anderson]

I thank the hon. Member for his intervention, and I agree 100% with the point he has made.

I thank all Members who have turned up tonight—I would have expected a few more, because there are probably 200 coalfield constituencies in this country. Please, Minister, give justice for the miners.