"My Lords, I declare an interest as a trustee of Muscular Dystrophy UK. Following the previous question, can the Minister say whether the early access programme really works? How many other drugs have been licensed under the programme, how many were eventually approved by NICE and how many were declined? …..." Lord Sharkey - View Speech
"My Lords, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have supported the Bill and the wider effort to bring justice to mortgage prisoners. In particular, I thank the noble Earl, Lord Lytton, the noble Baroness, Lady Bennett of Manor Castle, the noble Lord, Lord Altrincham, …..." Lord Sharkey - View Speech
"My Lords, can the Minister say which of the recommendations set out in the 2023 report on business improvement districts have been implemented? In particular, what consideration have the Government given to reinstating the BID loan fund? What plans are there to set up more property owner BIDs outside London, …..." Lord Sharkey - View Speech
"My Lords, according to the Commons Library, in 2024 there were 5.5 million small and medium-sized businesses in the UK, which was 97% of the total business population. These companies accounted for 60% of all UK jobs and 48% of all business turnover. These small businesses are the engines of …..." Lord Sharkey - View Speech
"To ask His Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to improve access to banking and finance for small businesses...." Lord Sharkey - View Speech
"My Lords, I understand that no amendments have been set down to this Bill and that no noble Lord has indicated a wish to move a manuscript amendment or to speak in Committee. Unless, therefore, any noble Lord objects, I beg to move that the order of commitment be discharged...." Lord Sharkey - View Speech
"I thank all noble Lords who have spoken in this debate. I was particularly taken by Amendments 4 and 5 in the name of the noble Baroness, Lady Neville-Rolfe, and I am glad that she will divide the House. We will support her when she does. I was less taken …..." Lord Sharkey - View Speech