Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Oral Answers to Questions

Louise Jones Excerpts
Tuesday 4th March 2025

(2 days, 4 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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Emma Reynolds Portrait Emma Reynolds
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That sounds like a criticism of the previous Government. I can reassure the hon. Gentleman that we are committed to innovation and to DIGIT.

Louise Jones Portrait Louise Jones (North East Derbyshire) (Lab)
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2. What steps she has taken to help increase economic growth in the east midlands.

Jen Craft Portrait Jen Craft (Thurrock) (Lab)
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18. What steps she has taken to help increase economic growth in the east of England.

Rachel Reeves Portrait The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
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Economic growth is the No. 1 mission of this Government. Putting more money in people’s pockets and ensuring growth is felt in all regions of the UK is a core part of our mission. The Government have a clear focus on investing in the infrastructure needed to support cities and regions to grow and thrive. In January, the Government announced a partnership between East Midlands airport and Prologis to build a new advanced manufacturing and logistics park, unlocking up to £1 billion of private investment and 2,000 jobs at the airport site.

Louise Jones Portrait Louise Jones
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The town of Staveley in my constituency of North East Derbyshire hosts one of the three sites for the east midlands investment zone, which is a fantastic opportunity for us. The Chesterfield-Staveley regeneration route is, however, vital to making the most of the site and it has been long campaigned for by my hon. Friend the Member for Chesterfield (Mr Perkins). It is a huge priority for my constituents. Will the Treasury work with us and our excellent Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, to bring this hugely beneficial project to fruition?

Rachel Reeves Portrait Rachel Reeves
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I thank my hon. Friend for the work that she does alongside my hon. Friend the Member for Chesterfield in campaigning for developments that will boost growth in both North East Derbyshire and Chesterfield. The Department for Transport is considering the scheme for the Chesterfield Staveley regeneration route, and I will suggest to the Roads Minister that he meet the relevant Members as well as the Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward.