Business of the House

Debate between Lucy Powell and Markus Campbell-Savours

Thursday 5th June 2025 Commons Chamber

[Lucy Powell]

I really do understand how important it is for the Sikh community to see progress on this issue —that is the second time that it has been raised with me this morning. I will ensure that the Foreign Secretary is aware of the concerns being raised again on the Floor of the House and that the update I previously asked for is made available to Members and this House.

[Markus Campbell-Savours (Penrith and Solway) (Lab)]

Penrith and Solway, like constituencies across the country, is littered with empty listed buildings. Many are rotting, with neglectful owners who are often not even required to pay rates. Will the Leader of the House agree to a debate in Government time to discuss how we stop this disgraceful trashing of our heritage?

[Lucy Powell]

My hon. Friend raises the really important issue of empty listed buildings and how they could be brought back into use and made better use of. I will absolutely ensure that a Minister gives him a full reply.

Business of the House

Debate between Lucy Powell and Markus Campbell-Savours

Thursday 31st October 2024 Commons Chamber

[Lucy Powell]

The hon. Member raises an important point, and I am sure that the House will debate these issues in the coming weeks. We are considering such matters in our forthcoming planning and infrastructure Bill, and as he knows, there are forthcoming pieces of water regulation, and he may want to raise that point during debate on those.

[Markus Campbell-Savours (Penrith and Solway) (Lab)]

In 2019, the Keswick Flood Action Group set out how Thirlmere reservoir could be managed to greatly reduce the impact of major flooding, like that seen in the town during Storm Desmond. Will the Leader of the House make time to debate how water companies’ infrastructure could be better used to prevent flooding in Penrith and Solway, and many other constituencies?

[Lucy Powell]

My hon. Friend raises a matter that is important for his constituency. That is one reason why today we were pleased to announce next week’s flood preparedness debate, in which I am sure he will want to discuss these issues. It is also why the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has been taking swift action on water reform to ensure that our water companies play their part.