Business of the House

Lucy Rigby Excerpts

Thursday 31st October 2024 Commons Chamber

[Lucy Powell]

As I said, this Government are incredibly committed to our farming and rural communities, to ensure food security. We have had to make some difficult decisions in this Budget, but I gently say to the hon. Gentleman that he should be careful in scaremongering about the reality of what is happening. As I said, three quarters of those currently entitled to the full relief will still be entitled to it following the measures in the Budget. He might reflect on one reason why so many rural constituencies chose Labour MPs at the last election: the president of the National Farmers’ Union described decisions by the previous Conservative Government as “morally bankrupt”.

[Lucy Rigby (Northampton North) (Lab)]

Next year, England will proudly host the women’s rugby world cup. Franklin’s Gardens, home to our mighty premiership champions Northampton Saints, is set to stage several matches, including a Red Roses game. There is huge excitement in our town and beyond about the opportunities that England hosting the games will provide, including the opportunity to grow grassroots participation in the women’s game. Might the Leader of the House consider scheduling a debate in Government time on how we can capitalise fully on this opportunity, and expand support for and participation in the women’s game?

[Lucy Powell]

My hon. Friend is right to raise this issue. Those kinds of events inspire participation and interest in the women’s game and more broadly. That is why this Government are committed to a curriculum review, putting physical education and sport back at the heart of our curriculum. Initiatives such as Sport England’s This Girl Can campaign continue to inspire many young women and girls to get active and get involved. I am sure that they will look closely at what she said.