Business of the House

Debate between Matt Vickers and Alan Campbell

Thursday 18th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for her question and join her in recognising the fantastic support that the Premier League has provided to Ingles FC. I pay tribute to the volunteers—football clubs depend very much on the work of volunteers. The commitment is also from the Government to support clubs to improve environmental sustainability and reduce energy costs through Sport England’s movement fund. It is good to see that the resources are being wisely spent.

[Matt Vickers (Stockton West) (Con)]

The on-demand bus service, Tees Flex, is a vital lifeline for rural communities across Teesside, but Labour leaders have just voted to scrap it, leaving villages such as Sadberge and Bishopton without any buses, and cutting off elderly and vulnerable residents from being able to do their shopping, get to hospital appointments, or visit family and friends. Will the Leader of the House join me in condemning this terrible decision, and will he grant a debate on the importance of bus services to rural communities?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I certainly agree with the hon. Gentleman on the importance of bus services—particularly in rural communities, where they are essential. I invite him to apply for an Adjournment or a Backbench Business debate, so he can raise these matters affecting his constituency. He might find common cause with others, particularly in rural areas.

Business of the House

Debate between Matt Vickers and Alan Campbell

Thursday 20th November 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend is right to champion our creative industries. As well he knows, we have a proud record in this country. Many iconic films are filmed here, including in our region and in my beautiful constituency. As he alludes to, there will be four days of debate on the Budget, which should be ample time for him to raise those thoughts.

[Matt Vickers (Stockton West) (Con)]

Stockon’s Labour council has made the decision to close 11 play parks, taking away precious facilities from children in Long Newton, Ingleby Barwick and Bishopsgarth, despite charging among the highest council tax in the country and spending £300,000 on an opening party—yes, £300,000 on a party —for its urban park. Will the Leader of the House grant a debate on the benefits of play parks and the need for councils to spend taxpayers’ money with respect?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Of course it is important that local authorities spend the money they have wisely, but for 14 years they were starved of the resources they need and we are determined to put that right. The hon. Gentleman is a loud voice in his constituency, and I am sure that if he were to seek an Adjournment debate, he could amplify it even further.

Business of the House

Debate between Matt Vickers and Alan Campbell

Thursday 23rd October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Yes, I will. I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter, which has been highlighted by a number of Members. I have also raised it with the Department for Transport. The Government are accelerating a consultation into the abuse of the driving test booking system and the reasons that we do not have enough places. I will ensure that the Transport Secretary has heard his concerns directly.

[Matt Vickers (Stockton West) (Con)]

Banking hubs give residents and businesses much-needed access to cash and banking services, and can drive up town centre footfall to support local businesses. Will the Leader of the House grant a debate on the importance of banking hubs, and does he agree that the beautiful, historic and incredible town of Yarm would be the perfect location for such a hub?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The Government are committed to providing more banking hubs, and indeed some have opened. The hon. Member could ask for a Backbench Business debate, because I am sure his concerns are shared by others, but let me gently say that the beautiful and historic town of Whitley Bay gets its banking hub on Friday.