Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Oral Answers to Questions

Martin Vickers Excerpts
Tuesday 6th February 2024

(4 months, 4 weeks ago)

Commons Chamber
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Bim Afolami Portrait Bim Afolami
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I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. Indeed, the Chancellor announced at the autumn statement last year that, over the next 12 months, the Government will consider selling shares in NatWest. That is all subject to value-for-money concerns and other matters, as he will appreciate, and it is market sensitive. Of course value for money will be at the heart of any consideration of the sale of shares, and the House will be kept fully informed over the coming weeks and months.

Martin Vickers Portrait Martin Vickers (Cleethorpes) (Con)
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My right hon. Friend and his colleagues will be aware of the challenges that businesses and households face in coastal communities. As the Budget approaches, may I urge him to be ever mindful of how we maintain the vitality of the economies in our coastal areas?

Jeremy Hunt Portrait Jeremy Hunt
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I absolutely will; that is a core part of the levelling-up agenda, and my hon. Friend will be pleased to know that, since we started on that agenda, two thirds of all new jobs created have been outside London and the south-east. We will continue to look at any proposals he may have in that respect.