Peter Aldous

My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education and my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, have already been working on Universal Credit matters, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a temporary extension to the length of time people can undertake training to develop work-related skills and qualifications, whilst still receiving Universal Credit to support their living costs. The length of time that Universal Credit claimants can spend on work-related, full-time training has been extended from up to 8 weeks to up to 12 weeks throughout the UK, and up to 16 weeks in England for the purpose of attending Skills Bootcamps. The change was implemented on 26 April and will run for a 6-month period, after which time the impact of this change will be reviewed.

There is already close and cross working across the government in respect of skills and employment. In England, the pre-employment training element of the DWP-led sector-based work academy programme (SWAP) is funded by the Department for Education through the adult education budget, which in several regions is managed by the relevant mayoral combined authority. The department is working with DWP to help deliver the extra 80,000 SWAP places for financial year 2021/22 announced by DWP in February this year. Professional, impartial careers information, advice and guidance underpins the range of measures being offered via the Plan For Jobs. Careers advisers help individuals and organisations to consider the different programmes, including apprenticeships, traineeships, Kickstart, SWAP, learning and upskilling opportunities, and help them to determine which route would be best for them. The department continues to work closely with DWP to make sure that our respective offers for job seekers and universal credit claimants complement each other and that customers enjoy a joined-up user experience, which helps them to progress.

The department is also working with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy on the green jobs task force, which focuses on the immediate and longer-term challenges of delivering skilled workers for the UK’s transition to a net zero agenda.

My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education and my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, have already been working on Universal Credit matters, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a temporary extension to the length of time people can undertake training to develop work-related skills and qualifications, whilst still receiving Universal Credit to support their living costs. The length of time that Universal Credit claimants can spend on work-related, full-time training has been extended from up to 8 weeks to up to 12 weeks throughout the UK, and up to 16 weeks in England for the purpose of attending Skills Bootcamps. The change was implemented on 26 April and will run for a 6-month period, after which time the impact of this change will be reviewed.

There is already close and cross working across the government in respect of skills and employment. In England, the pre-employment training element of the DWP-led sector-based work academy programme (SWAP) is funded by the Department for Education through the adult education budget, which in several regions is managed by the relevant mayoral combined authority. The department is working with DWP to help deliver the extra 80,000 SWAP places for financial year 2021/22 announced by DWP in February this year. Professional, impartial careers information, advice and guidance underpins the range of measures being offered via the Plan For Jobs. Careers advisers help individuals and organisations to consider the different programmes, including apprenticeships, traineeships, Kickstart, SWAP, learning and upskilling opportunities, and help them to determine which route would be best for them. The department continues to work closely with DWP to make sure that our respective offers for job seekers and universal credit claimants complement each other and that customers enjoy a joined-up user experience, which helps them to progress.

The department is also working with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy on the green jobs task force, which focuses on the immediate and longer-term challenges of delivering skilled workers for the UK’s transition to a net zero agenda.

We are investing an additional £291 million in 16-19 education in the 2021/22 financial year. This is in addition to the £400 million awarded in the 2019 Spending Review. This will allow us to maintain the base rate of funding at £4,188 for all types of providers and to continue with the increased funding for high value and high cost subjects, including the High Value Courses Premium. Overall, there has been an increase in cash terms of funding per student of over 9% in published allocations for the 2020/21 academic year compared with the 2019/20 academic year. This is following the rate increases in the 2019 Spending Review, and these higher rates will be maintained in 2021/22 allocations.

We are continuing to invest in education and skills training for adults through the Adult Education Budget (AEB): £1.34 billion in the 2020/21 academic year.

Future funding for 16-19 and AEB provision beyond 2021/22 is subject to the upcoming Spending Review.

We are also investing £138 million from the National Skills Fund for Free Courses for Jobs and Skills Bootcamps offers over the current Spending Review period. We remain committed to £2.5 billion investment, in England, for the National Skills Fund across five years.

In the 2021/22 financial year, funding available for investment in apprenticeships in England is almost £2.5 billion, double what was spent in 2010/11.

We are supporting employers to increase the use of apprenticeships by increasing the incentive payments for employer to £3,000 for each new apprentice they hire as a new employee.

The latest estimate as of the end of 2019 for the proportion of adults, aged between 19 and 64 years, who have level 2 as their highest qualification is 18%, as estimated by the Labour Force Survey and reported in the publication education and training statistics for the UK.

Data on employment, unemployment, pay and income, and benefits by highest qualification level for the wider age group of 16 to 64 year olds in the UK is estimated using the Annual Population Survey of 2019.

The table below shows the percentage and number of working age people, aged 16 to 64 years old, in the UK who are and not in full time education and either employed, economically inactive or unemployed who reported their highest qualification as level 2 in 2019. Those claiming benefits would either be classified as unemployed or economically inactive in the table below.

Percentages in tables are rounded to whole numbers and figures are rounded to the nearest 1000.

The Department’s advice on face coverings is outlined clearly in published guidance, which can be found at the following links: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/actions-for-schools-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak; https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-in-education.

We have also published information for parents and carers about attending schools, nurseries and colleges in the spring term 2021. This can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/what-parents-and-carers-need-to-know-about-early-years-providers-schools-and-colleges-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak.

Our recommendation regarding the use of face coverings in classrooms applies to those in schools and colleges where Year 7 and above are educated unless social distancing can be maintained in classrooms. Whilst we recognise that the wearing of face coverings may impact communication, increased use of face coverings will strengthen the current safety measures in place in schools and support the return to face to face education.

As the guidance outlines, those who rely on visual signals for communication, or communicate with or provide support to such individuals, are currently exempt from any requirement to wear face coverings in schools and colleges or in public places. The same exemptions apply in schools and we expect staff, pupils and students to be sensitive to those needs, noting that some people are less able to wear face coverings and that the reasons for this may not be visible to others.

Schools should follow the system of controls as outlined in our guidance and put in place proportionate control measures that suit their individual circumstances, based on a thorough risk assessment. This should include making reasonable adjustments for disabled pupils and students to support them to access education successfully.

We continue to provide information to the sector on our guidance, and any changes to it, through regular departmental communications. These additional precautionary measures will be kept under review and we will update guidance as necessary.

The Department continues to work closely with other Government Departments throughout its response to the COVID-19 outbreak, including Public Health England (PHE) and the Department of Health and Social Care, as well as stakeholders across the sector. We continue to work to ensure that our policy is based on the latest scientific and medical advice, to continue to develop comprehensive guidance based on the PHE-endorsed ‘system of controls’ and to understand the impact and effectiveness of these measures on staff, pupils and parents.

The Department has recently published updated guidance for schools to support the return to full attendance from 8 March 2021, which includes updated advice on face coverings. The guidance can be found here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/964351/Schools_coronavirus_operational_guidance.pdf.

As the guidance outlines, where pupils in Year 7 and above are taught, we recommend that face coverings should be worn by adults and pupils when moving around the premises, outside of classrooms, such as in corridors and communal areas where social distancing cannot easily be maintained.

In addition, from 8 March 2021, we now also recommend that in those schools where pupils in Year 7 and above are taught, face coverings should be worn in classrooms unless social distancing can be maintained.

Some individuals are exempt from wearing face coverings. This includes people who cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability, or if you are speaking to or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading, clear sound or facial expressions to communicate. The same legal exemptions that apply to the wearing of face coverings in shops and on public transport also apply in schools.

Transparent face coverings, which may assist communication with someone who relies on lip reading, clear sound or facial expression to communicate, can also be worn. There is currently very limited evidence regarding the effectiveness or safety of transparent face coverings, but they may be effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19.

We are recommending these additional precautionary measures for a for a time limited period until Easter. As with all measures, we will keep this under review and update guidance as necessary.

The Department continues to work closely with other Government Departments throughout its response to the COVID-19 outbreak, including Public Health England (PHE) and the Department of Health and Social Care, as well as stakeholders across the sector. We continue to work to ensure that our policy is based on the latest scientific and medical advice, to continue to develop comprehensive guidance based on the PHE-endorsed ‘system of controls’ and to understand the impact and effectiveness of these measures on staff, pupils and parents.

The Department has recently published updated guidance for schools to support the return to full attendance from 8 March 2021, which includes updated advice on face coverings. The guidance can be found here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/964351/Schools_coronavirus_operational_guidance.pdf.

As the guidance outlines, where pupils in Year 7 and above are taught, we recommend that face coverings should be worn by adults and pupils when moving around the premises, outside of classrooms, such as in corridors and communal areas where social distancing cannot easily be maintained.

In addition, from 8 March 2021, we now also recommend that in those schools where pupils in Year 7 and above are taught, face coverings should be worn in classrooms unless social distancing can be maintained.

Some individuals are exempt from wearing face coverings. This includes people who cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability, or if you are speaking to or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading, clear sound or facial expressions to communicate. The same legal exemptions that apply to the wearing of face coverings in shops and on public transport also apply in schools.

Transparent face coverings, which may assist communication with someone who relies on lip reading, clear sound or facial expression to communicate, can also be worn. There is currently very limited evidence regarding the effectiveness or safety of transparent face coverings, but they may be effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19.

We are recommending these additional precautionary measures for a for a time limited period until Easter. As with all measures, we will keep this under review and update guidance as necessary.

252,580 children were recorded as having domestic abuse as a factor at the end of their referral assessment[1] in the year ending 31 March 2019. This includes children where the assessment has raised concerns about the child, concerns about the parent(s) or concerns about other adults in the household. We do not publish figures showing where there are solely concerns about the child being the victim of domestic abuse. 46.0% of children in need on 31 March 2019 have special educational needs (SEN), including 21.6% with an education, health and care (EHC) plan. Figures for the number of children with domestic abuse as an assessment factor and an EHC plan are not available.

For school attendance, 69,000 of the children and young people in attendance on Thursday 7 May were classed by schools as vulnerable. Of these, around 20,800 of the children and young people in attendance on Thursday 7 May were children and young people with SEN who have an EHC plan. Figures for the number of children with domestic abuse as an assessment factor are not available in the school attendance data collection.

Please note that the department has set an expectation that children with a social worker, including those where domestic abuse is a factor, are to attend. This is the expectation unless their social worker decides that they are at less risk at home or in their placement, for example, due to underlying health conditions. In the event of non-attendance, providers should follow up with the parent or carer – and social worker or local authority, where appropriate – to explore reasons for absence. Where a vulnerable child does not take up their place at school or college or discontinues, the provider should notify their social worker. Where appropriate, they should keep in contact with the family.

[1] When a child is referred to children’s social care, an assessment is carried out to identify if the child is in need of services, which local authorities have an obligation to provide under section 17 of the Children Act 1989. These services can include, for example, family support (to help keep together families experiencing difficulties), leaving care support (to help young people who have left local authority care), adoption support or disabled children’s services (including social care, education and health provision).

?The Government is already taking significant steps to promote physical literacy and competitive sport in schools. Through the Primary Physical Education and Sport Premium, we have invested over £1 billion of ring-fenced funding to primary schools to improve physical education (PE) and sport since 2013. Positive outcomes reported by schools include increases in the level of competitive sport, increases in the proportion of children doing 30 minutes of activity each day at school, and increases in teacher knowledge and confidence.

The Government also provides support for competitive sport through the School Games programme funded by Sport England and delivered by the Youth Sport Trust. It provides events at local, regional and national levels in 40 different sports. Schools can also enter competitions run by the different National Governing Bodies for sports.

The Department is working with DCMS to develop further proposals to deliver on the manifesto commitment to invest in primary school PE teaching and ensure that it is being properly delivered to develop physical literacy. We will also build on our existing School Sport and Activity Action plan to do more to help schools make good use of their sports facilities including for competitive sport. Proposals will be confirmed later in the year.

The United Kingdom advocates an approach towards setting Total Allowable Catches (TACs) which is founded on the best available scientific advice and that will maintain or rebuild sustainable fish stocks and fisheries. For a number of target stocks a further key consideration when setting the TACs is their interaction with other stocks caught in the same mixed fishery. Therefore, we recognise the need to minimise unwanted bycatch and maintain stocks at sustainable levels.

The United Kingdom advocates an approach towards setting Total Allowable Catches (TACs) which is founded on the best available scientific advice and that will maintain or rebuild sustainable fish stocks and fisheries. For a number of target stocks a further key consideration when setting the TACs is their interaction with other stocks caught in the same mixed fishery. Therefore, we recognise the need to minimise unwanted bycatch and maintain stocks at sustainable levels.

The United Kingdom advocates an approach towards setting Total Allowable Catches (TACs) which is founded on the best available scientific advice and that will maintain or rebuild sustainable fish stocks and fisheries. For a number of target stocks, a further key consideration when setting the TACs is their interaction with other stocks caught in the same mixed fishery. Consequently, we recognise the need to minimise unwanted bycatch and maintain stocks at sustainable levels.

Blackspot seabream (western red seabream) is recognised as seriously depleted by the International Council for Exploration of the Sea (ICES). The recent catch advice issued by ICES, for zero catches of blackspot seabream, will form a central part of the UK position for this stock for the forthcoming consultations. This approach is consistent with the UK’s commitments to make the best use of scientific advice for the management of fishing activities. Blackspot seabream is a shared stock with the EU. The UK and EU are developing improved management measures to support its long-term recovery through the Specialised Committee on Fisheries.

Forage fish are important to the ecosystem as they provide food for predator fish and sea birds. We are reviewing our policy on forage fish that are caught for industrial purposes. In the context of the Northeast Atlantic, there are specific fleet segments that specialise in this type of fishing, and their effort within UK waters is targeted on particular species, principally sandeel and Norway pout.

We have asked ICES to update its advice from 2018 on the effectiveness of management arrangements for these stocks which are managed by joint TACs. ICES have indicated their advice will be available during the autumn and we expect to make it our policy for the annual fisheries negotiation with the EU to manage these stocks based on the updated advice provided by ICES. This request to ICES is an example of the work we are doing through the Specialised Committee for Fisheries to address challenges where we think new or different advice is needed.

The UK advocates an approach towards setting total allowable catches (TACs) for cod stocks and other species that is founded on the best available scientific advice, which seeks to maintain or rebuild sustainable fish stocks and fisheries in the long term. For many whitefish stocks, such as cod, a further key consideration when setting the TAC is their interaction with other stocks caught in the same mixed fishery.

Each year, the UK publishes the sustainability outcomes of the annual fisheries negotiations. This sets out the number of Total Allowable Catches (TACs) that have been set in line with the International Council for the Exploration Sea (ICES) advice. The UK is committed to promoting the sustainability for all fisheries stocks including deep sea species.

The UK relies on advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) when negotiating sustainable total allowable catches for fish stocks, including for roundnose grenadier. We are committed to restoring stocks to healthy states including taking a precautionary approach where necessary. To reflect this, the UK unilaterally applies a bycatch provision and does not actively target this stock. The UK will continue to make use of the best available science in developing our approach for deep sea stocks in both the UK and EU consultations, and our representations at the North-East Atlantic Fisheries Commission.

The UK’s approach is that Total Allowable Catches for all species should be based on the best available scientific advice. The goal is to seek to maintain fish stocks and fisheries at sustainable levels in the long term or to rebuild them to such levels, where necessary.

This is a devolved matter and the information provided therefore relates to England only.

We have designated over 100 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) since 2010, so that now 40% of English waters are within the protected area network. We have already committed that the next step is to ensure all of our MPAs are properly protected, supported by our proposed legally binding target under the Environment Act which we are consulting on at present. We have already introduced byelaws in the first four sites which ban bottom towed gear over sensitive habitats and published a call for evidence relating to the next thirteen sites. We are aiming to have all MPAs in English offshore waters protected from damaging fishing activity by 2024.

The increasing cost of fuel is affecting a wide range of sectors including the fishing industry. Our primary focus is on analysing how the UK fleet is being affected by fuel and fish prices. Defra Ministers and officials are working with colleagues across government, along with a wide range of stakeholders, and are closely monitoring the situation.

The Government has shown long term commitment to the sector and will continue to do so in the future. As part of this long term commitment we are not planning to repurpose funds to mitigate the impacts of high fuel prices. We consider this is a cross cutting issue, and so are liaising with colleagues across government to determine the longer-term impacts and any mitigating actions.

Defra will continue to support the sector through the £100 million UK Seafood Fund, which as one of its main objectives seeks to increase the sustainability of the sector, including through investing in the transition to renewable energy.

Defra is also making £32.7 million in annual funding available across all four nations of the UK which last year enabled grant schemes to be opened in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, benefiting hundreds of UK businesses. The grant scheme for England, the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, delivers investment to safeguard the long-term sustainability, resilience and prosperity of the seafood sector.

In recognition of the challenges in the maritime sector, including the fishing industry, in the 2022 Spring Budget the Chancellor overturned the 2020 announcement to remove the red diesel entitlement for commercial boat operators, meaning the industry can continue to use red diesel, in addition to the Marine Voyages Relief, which gives 100% relief on fuel duty costs.

The increasing cost of fuel is affecting a wide range of sectors including the fishing industry. Our primary focus is on analysing how the UK fleet is being affected by fuel and fish prices. Defra Ministers and officials are working with colleagues across government, along with a wide range of stakeholders, and are closely monitoring the situation.

The Government has shown long term commitment to the sector and will continue to do so in the future. As part of this long term commitment we are not planning to repurpose funds to mitigate the impacts of high fuel prices. We consider this is a cross cutting issue, and so are liaising with colleagues across government to determine the longer-term impacts and any mitigating actions.

Defra will continue to support the sector through the £100 million UK Seafood Fund, which as one of its main objectives seeks to increase the sustainability of the sector, including through investing in the transition to renewable energy.

Defra is also making £32.7 million in annual funding available across all four nations of the UK which last year enabled grant schemes to be opened in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, benefiting hundreds of UK businesses. The grant scheme for England, the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, delivers investment to safeguard the long-term sustainability, resilience and prosperity of the seafood sector.

In recognition of the challenges in the maritime sector, including the fishing industry, in the 2022 Spring Budget the Chancellor overturned the 2020 announcement to remove the red diesel entitlement for commercial boat operators, meaning the industry can continue to use red diesel, in addition to the Marine Voyages Relief, which gives 100% relief on fuel duty costs.

The increasing cost of fuel is affecting a wide range of sectors including the fishing industry. Our primary focus is on analysing how the UK fleet is being affected by fuel and fish prices. Defra Ministers and officials are working with colleagues across government, along with a wide range of stakeholders, and are closely monitoring the situation.

The Government has shown long term commitment to the sector and will continue to do so in the future. As part of this long term commitment we are not planning to repurpose funds to mitigate the impacts of high fuel prices. We consider this is a cross cutting issue, and so are liaising with colleagues across government to determine the longer-term impacts and any mitigating actions.

Defra will continue to support the sector through the £100 million UK Seafood Fund, which as one of its main objectives seeks to increase the sustainability of the sector, including through investing in the transition to renewable energy.

Defra is also making £32.7 million in annual funding available across all four nations of the UK which last year enabled grant schemes to be opened in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, benefiting hundreds of UK businesses. The grant scheme for England, the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, delivers investment to safeguard the long-term sustainability, resilience and prosperity of the seafood sector.

In recognition of the challenges in the maritime sector, including the fishing industry, in the 2022 Spring Budget the Chancellor overturned the 2020 announcement to remove the red diesel entitlement for commercial boat operators, meaning the industry can continue to use red diesel, in addition to the Marine Voyages Relief, which gives 100% relief on fuel duty costs.

The increasing cost of fuel is affecting a wide range of sectors including the fishing industry. Our primary focus is on analysing how the UK fleet is being affected by fuel and fish prices. Defra Ministers and officials are working with colleagues across government, along with a wide range of stakeholders, and are closely monitoring the situation.

The Government has shown long term commitment to the sector and will continue to do so in the future. As part of this long term commitment we are not planning to repurpose funds to mitigate the impacts of high fuel prices. We consider this is a cross cutting issue, and so are liaising with colleagues across government to determine the longer-term impacts and any mitigating actions.

Defra will continue to support the sector through the £100 million UK Seafood Fund, which as one of its main objectives seeks to increase the sustainability of the sector, including through investing in the transition to renewable energy.

Defra is also making £32.7 million in annual funding available across all four nations of the UK which last year enabled grant schemes to be opened in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, benefiting hundreds of UK businesses. The grant scheme for England, the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, delivers investment to safeguard the long-term sustainability, resilience and prosperity of the seafood sector.

In recognition of the challenges in the maritime sector, including the fishing industry, in the 2022 Spring Budget the Chancellor overturned the 2020 announcement to remove the red diesel entitlement for commercial boat operators, meaning the industry can continue to use red diesel, in addition to the Marine Voyages Relief, which gives 100% relief on fuel duty costs.

Licences are issued to all vessels that have eligibility to fish in UK waters and have no history of illegal fishing. As a newly independent Coastal State we will be considering the impacts of various fishing activities when we undertake our programme of domestic fisheries management reform.

The engine power of UK vessels fishing with fly seining equipment in the southern North Sea and English Channel ranges from 749kW to 1325KW. While the length of these vessels varies between 23.9 and 36.6 metres. European Commission vessels with fly seining equipment are listed on the public EC fleet register.

Vessels are currently not required to have a specific permit for Scottish seining (fly shooting). Fishing licences issued to fish in UK water are not restricted by area other than for those vessels fishing in Territorial waters.

The Government is currently reviewing its policy on fly-shooting vessels and large pelagic trawlers in UK waters. Any action taken needs to be evidence-based, and in line with the UK/EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

The UK EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) provides for each Party to grant access to fish non-quota species at the average tonnage fished in the reference period 2012-2016, for a five and a half year adjustment period. There are no catch limits for individual vessels fishing for non-quota species.

In 2021 there were nine UK vessels fishing with fly seining equipment in the southern North Sea and the English Channel in the International Council for Exploration of the Sea (ICES) areas 7d and 7e (these area codes refer to ICES Rectangles which are a sub-division of the sea surface area each approximately 30 nautical miles by 30 nautical miles in size; ICES Rectangle is the highest resolution of spatial landings data available for all UK fishing vessels). European vessels with fly seining equipment are listed on the public European Commission fleet register. Under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, licensing arrangements in the Territorial waters between the UK and the EU were based on vessels that were active in the respective zones during the reference period. This track record arrangement is not gear specific.

The requirement to pre-notify imports of Products of Animal Origin (POAO) for human consumption will be introduced on 1 January 2022. From 1 July 2022, these imports of POAO must also be accompanied by a certified Export Health Certificate and enter via a point of entry with a designated Border Control Post (BCP), where they will be subject to documentary, ID, and physical checks.

The requirement for pre-notification, phytosanitary certificates and risk-based import checks (documentary, identity and physical) have been in place for many years for all regulated plants and plant products from non-EU countries.

In January 2021, these requirements were extended to also include ‘high priority’ plants and plant products from the EU, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. ‘High priority’ plants and plant products are those which present the greatest potential biosecurity risk to GB and includes all plants for planting, potatoes and some seed.

The requirements will be further extended during 2022, to include all other regulated plants and plant products from the EU, Liechtenstein and Switzerland, such as fresh fruit, vegetables and cut flowers, starting with pre-notification on 1 January and followed by phytosanitary certificates and risk-based import checks on 1 July 2022.

Information relating to this question is already published:

• UK opening quotas (pre-landing obligation exemptions and pre-allocations adjustments) are set out in the Secretary of State’s determination of fishing opportunities which is available here [Fishing opportunities for British fishing boats in 2021 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)].
• UK quota allocations have been set out by the Marine Management Organisation here [Fishing quota allocations for 2021 for England and the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)].
• Total TACs are set out in the written record of fisheries consultations between the UK and EU for 2021 here [Fisheries: consultations between the UK and the EU in 2021 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)] and the agreed record of fisheries consultations between the EU, Norway and the United Kingdom for 2021 here [Fisheries: cod, haddock, saithe, whiting, plaice, herring and sprat management in the North Sea - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)].

The data requested is set out in the below table.

Information relating to this question is already published:

• UK opening quotas (pre-landing obligation exemptions and pre-allocations adjustments) are set out in the Secretary of State’s determination of fishing opportunities which is available here [Fishing opportunities for British fishing boats in 2021 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)].
• UK quota allocations have been set out by the Marine Management Organisation here [Fishing quota allocations for 2021 for England and the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)].
• Total TACs are set out in the written record of fisheries consultations between the UK and EU for 2021 here [Fisheries: consultations between the UK and the EU in 2021 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)] and the agreed record of fisheries consultations between the EU, Norway and the United Kingdom for 2021 here [Fisheries: cod, haddock, saithe, whiting, plaice, herring and sprat management in the North Sea - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)].

The data requested is set out in the below table.

The data requested is set out in the tables below

The data requested is set out in the tables below

The data requested is set out in the tables below

The data requested is set out in the tables below

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

All UK fishing vessels are registered to UK companies (or individuals); the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) does not hold data relating to the degree of foreign investment or beneficial ownership of these companies or fishing opportunities associated with them. Therefore, it is not possible to provide data on landings, quota compliance or vessel numbers split between UK and foreign ownership. The economic link conditions apply to all UK fishing vessels and are enforced through conditions in the fishing licence to ensure that genuine benefits to the UK are realised by the whole fleet.

The licence condition relating to crewing is audited by the MMO through the requirement of a crew manifest detailing the names and addresses of all crew members. The condition requires residence in the UK and does not specifically relate to distance of residence from the coast.

During 2019 quota donations made though the economic link requirements were estimated to have a value of £2.1 million based on average first sale prices. The donated quota totalled 714 tonnes across the range of stocks as detailed in the table below. Donated quota is provided directly to the 10m and under fleet or traded by the MMO for more beneficial stocks for the 10m and under fleet as necessary. The MMO carries out a large number of trades each year through domestic and international swaps to ensure the most beneficial fishing opportunities for the fleet. Economic link related quota donations form part of the overall trading package along with multiple other sources of quota, so it is not possible to state the precise value of this component. For this reason the MMO uses the first sale value of donated quota to assess the economic link compliance.

The Government intends to consult on proposals to strengthen the condition and increase the economic benefits to the UK in October. The response to the consultation will be published in line with the principles for consultation published by the Cabinet Office.

The Government is taking a proactive approach to understand the possible links between air quality and COVID-19. That is why, with our Air Quality Expert Group (AQEG), we ran a rapid Call for Evidence to ensure we can more fully understand the impact that COVID-19 is having on air pollutant emissions, concentrations and human exposure. This report was published on 1 July. We welcome the work of the British Lung Foundation (BLF) and their survey was discussed at our recent round table meeting with health stakeholders, including the BLF.

Improving air quality remains a top priority for the Government and, especially during these unprecedented times, we will continue to take robust and comprehensive action to improve air quality in the UK and minimise public health impacts.

We are developing a clear evidence-based process for setting the fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) target introduced in the Environment Bill. This process will involve thorough analysis and independent expert advice, considering economic, social and technological factors. It will also involve detailed analysis to assess what additional action would be needed to achieve potential targets. Stakeholders, Parliament and the public will have the opportunity to comment on and provide input to the development of an ambitious and achievable target.

We are committed to taking action on PM_2.5, as it is the pollutant that has the most significant impact on health.

We are developing a clear evidence-based process for setting the fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) target introduced in the Environment Bill. This process will involve thorough analysis and independent expert advice, considering economic, social and technological factors. It will also involve detailed analysis to assess what additional action would be needed to achieve potential targets. Stakeholders, Parliament and the public will have the opportunity to comment on and provide input to the development of an ambitious and achievable target.

We are committed to taking action on PM_2.5, as it is the pollutant that has the most significant impact on health.

In July 2019, the Government published a report assessing the progress that will be made towards World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines under a range of scenarios. The report concluded that while significant progress would be made, additional action would be required in large urban areas such as London. The analysis did not outline a pathway to achieve the WHO guideline level for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) across the country, and did not take into account full economic viability and practical deliverability.

The Environment Bill establishes a legally binding duty to set a target for PM2.5, demonstrating our commitment to action on the air pollutant that has the most significant impact on human health. We are committed to setting challenging targets and following an evidence based process, seeking advice from a range of experts, in addition to giving consideration to the WHO’s air quality guidelines. Stakeholders, Parliament and the public will have the opportunity to comment on and provide input for the process of developing this target.

This Government is committed to delivering a net zero railway and recognises the considerable benefits of shifting goods from road to rail. Our Transport Decarbonisation and Future of Freight plans set out our support for rail freight, recognising that freight trains emit around a quarter of the carbon dioxide per tonne-mile of road haulage. As we build back from the pandemic, and following the 2021 Spending Review, we want to provide as much clarity and certainty as possible on rail enhancements and will set out our plans shortly. We also continue to invest in rail freight through grants such as the Mode Shift Revenue Support scheme.

This Government is committed to delivering a net zero railway and recognises the considerable benefits of shifting goods from road to rail. Our Transport Decarbonisation and Future of Freight plans set out our support for rail freight, recognising that freight trains emit around a quarter of the carbon dioxide per tonne-mile of road haulage. As we build back from the pandemic, and following the 2021 Spending Review, we want to provide as much clarity and certainty as possible on rail enhancements and will set out our plans shortly. We also continue to invest in rail freight through grants such as the Mode Shift Revenue Support scheme.

We are giving careful consideration to the large volume of responses to this consultation and will publish the outcome as soon as possible.

Officials from the Department for Transport and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy are in regular contact on the development of our green hydrogen policies. This includes engagement to better understand the merits of any support for hydrogen production using nuclear energy.

The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) has reduced carbon emissions from UK transport fuels by of 275 mega tonnes from 2008 to 2020 through supporting the use of renewable fuels. There have been no recent ministerial discussions to expand the RTFO to cover nuclear derived fuels. Any decision on extension of the RTFO to support fuels derived from nuclear energy would need to be carefully considered because this could divert nuclear energy from the electricity grid where it plays a valuable role in providing low carbon energy.

We will set out a plan for the path to zero carbon shipping in 2022. The Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) consultation launched on 23^rd July this year seeks to explore the suitability of nuclear energy for producing SAF.

Any proposals would be the subject of a public consultation, published economic analysis and require primary and secondary legislation.

Officials from the Department for Transport and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy are in regular contact on the development of our green hydrogen policies. This includes engagement to better understand the merits of any support for hydrogen production using nuclear energy.

The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) has reduced carbon emissions from UK transport fuels by of 275 mega tonnes from 2008 to 2020 through supporting the use of renewable fuels. There have been no recent ministerial discussions to expand the RTFO to cover nuclear derived fuels. Any decision on extension of the RTFO to support fuels derived from nuclear energy would need to be carefully considered because this could divert nuclear energy from the electricity grid where it plays a valuable role in providing low carbon energy.

We will set out a plan for the path to zero carbon shipping in 2022. The Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) consultation launched on 23^rd July this year seeks to explore the suitability of nuclear energy for producing SAF.

Any proposals would be the subject of a public consultation, published economic analysis and require primary and secondary legislation.

Officials from the Department for Transport and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy are in regular contact on the development of our green hydrogen policies. This includes engagement to better understand the merits of any support for hydrogen production using nuclear energy.

The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) has reduced carbon emissions from UK transport fuels by of 275 mega tonnes from 2008 to 2020 through supporting the use of renewable fuels. There have been no recent ministerial discussions to expand the RTFO to cover nuclear derived fuels. Any decision on extension of the RTFO to support fuels derived from nuclear energy would need to be carefully considered because this could divert nuclear energy from the electricity grid where it plays a valuable role in providing low carbon energy.

We will set out a plan for the path to zero carbon shipping in 2022. The Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) consultation launched on 23^rd July this year seeks to explore the suitability of nuclear energy for producing SAF.

Any proposals would be the subject of a public consultation, published economic analysis and require primary and secondary legislation.

Following the conclusion of the Social Security Advisory Committee’s formal referral on the regulations, the Department published its response on 4^th July 2022.

Following the conclusion of the Social Security Advisory Committee’s formal referral on the regulations, the Department published its response on 4^th July 2022.

Following the conclusion of the Social Security Advisory Committee’s formal referral on the regulations, the Department published its response on 4^th July 2022.

Formal performance monitoring is not appropriate to a discovery phase where the aim is to learn what works best, rather than achieve a specific volume of cases.

In May 2022 we started a multi-location approach across the country with a small number of claimants, being issued with migration notices. We will continue to develop our processes and systems to ensure the transition to Universal Credit works as smoothly as possible before we proceed to scale the migration process. Government is committed to ensuring the final phase of Universal Credit is rolled out safely and is responsibly delivered by the end of 2024.

Universal Credit (UC) does not duplicate the financial support provided by the student loan system. This system of student loans and grants are designed to meet their needs.

Where learning meets the work-related requirements, as described in their claimant commitment, UC claimants can participate in learning opportunities designed to improve their prospects of securing work and progressing.

Using existing flexibilities within UC, DWP’s Train and Progress (TaP) initiative expands claimants’ access to training, including new offers under the Lifetime Skills Guarantee, for example, being able to undertake Skills Bootcamps, ensuring they gain new skills and access better employment opportunities. DWP TaP better aligns the employment and skills support offer and increases the amount of time UC claimants can take part in suitable full-time training. Claimants could take up to 12 weeks for work-related course and up to 16 weeks in areas where Skills Bootcamps exist.

The Department plans to implement the 12-month end-of-life approach across five DWP benefits, beginning in Universal Credit alongside Employment and Support Allowance next year. This will be followed by Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Personal Independence Payment subject to Parliamentary processes.

The Department works closely with Department for Education and others, including the Skills Productivity Board, to understand current and future skills shortages. Our DWP Train and Progress initiative expands claimants’ access to training, with new offers under the Lifetime Skills Guarantee such as the Skills Bootcamps, ensuring they gain new skills and obtain good jobs.

No assessment has been made. There is currently an on-going Judicial Review on Universal Credit childcare and the payment of upfront costs. An appeal hearing took place in the Court of Appeal in July and a decision is awaited. It is therefore not appropriate to comment directly on this matter at this time. It should be noted there are no changes to the current processes and the legislation remains the same.

Childcare costs should not be a barrier to getting into work – this Government is committed to helping parents into work. Universal Credit pays up to 85% of childcare costs for working parents, compared to 70% in legacy benefits, and childcare costs can be claimed up to a month before starting a job.

In cases where people need to pay for childcare upfront, prior to starting work, Work Coaches may be able to use the Flexible Support Fund for eligible claimants to meet these costs until their first wage is received. Budgeting advances are also available to eligible claimants who require help with upfront costs, for example when altering hours worked or changing childcare providers. Claimants on Universal Credit are encouraged to manage their own finances and budgets to better mirror the world of work and the majority of claimants can, and do, manage their childcare payments effectively.

We carefully balance our duty to the taxpayer to recover overpayments, with support for claimants. Safeguards are in place to ensure deductions are manageable. From 12 April 2021, we further reduced the cap on deductions from Universal Credit awards to 25 per cent and lengthened the period from 12 to 24 months, meaning in effect someone can receive 25 payments over 24 months, giving them more flexibility over the payments of their Universal Credit award. This will also allow claimants to retain more of their award, giving additional financial security, and follows a previous change in October 2019 that reduced the cap from 40% to 30%.

Customers can contact the Department if they are experiencing financial hardship to discuss a reduction in their rate of repayment, depending on their financial circumstances, whilst work coaches can also signpost claimants to other financial support.

The information requested is provided in the attached spreadsheet.

Yes. The statutory deadline for the publication of the next Government Review of State Pension age is May 2023.

Changes to State Pension age were made over a series of Acts by successive governments from 1995 onwards; including the Coalition 2010-2015, Labour 1997-2010 and the Conservatives 1995-1997, following public consultations and extensive debates in both Houses of Parliament. Through the welfare system, the Government is committed to providing financial support for people at every stage of their life, including when they near or reach retirement.

Women born between 6 April 1950 and 5 April 1953 were affected by State Pension age equalisation under the Pensions Act 1995. The Pensions Act 2011 accelerated the equalisation of State Pension age, and included transitional arrangements limiting State Pension age delays, affecting women born between 6 April 1953 and 5 December 1953. It also brought forward the increase in State Pension age from 65 to 66 which affected women born between 6 December 1953 and 5 April 1960.

The Department published estimates on the cost of reversing the women’s State Pension age to 60 and men’s State Pension age to 65 on the 7^th June 2019.

The publication shows the estimated cost of reversing women’s State Pension age back to 60 and men’s State Pension age back to 65 over the period 2010/11 to 2025/26, to be £181.4bn for women and £33.8bn for men with an overall cost estimate of £215.2bn.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/analysis-relating-to-state-pension-age-changes-from-the-1995-and-2011-pensions-acts/analysis-relating-to-state-pension-age-changes-from-the-1995-and-2011-pensions-acts

The Age Addition is paid to people who reached State Pension age prior to 6^th April 2016 when they claim their State Pension and attain 80 years of age. It is not payable to those people who reached State Pension age on or after 6^th April 2016.

In March 2019, the most recent date for which data are available, there were approximately 3.3m people in receipt of the payment, at a weekly cost of approximately £820,000.

Source: DWP Administrative data, March 2019

The Department will consider the availability and access to Public Access Trauma Kits as on-going work across the health sector on the implementation of the recommendations from the Manchester Arena Inquiry.

The Department will consider the availability and access to Public Access Trauma Kits as on-going work across the health sector on the implementation of the recommendations from the Manchester Arena Inquiry.

The Department and NHS England are working to establish the Provider Selection Regime. We will provide an update for when the relevant sections of the Health and Care Act will be commenced, and regulations laid before Parliament, in due course. The regulations which will set out the Provider Selection Regime will be subject to parliamentary scrutiny through the affirmative process before they can come into force.

The Department and NHS England are working to establish the Provider Selection Regime and further information on the relevant regulations will be available in due course.

NHS England will engage with stakeholders in dental professional groups on improving urgent care access; supporting access for new patients; re-orientating the system towards prevention; and on dental team recruitment and retention and integration with the National Health Service.

In addition, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities has published ‘Delivering better oral health: an evidence-based toolkit for prevention’ for dental teams to support delivery of preventive advice and treatment for patients, which is available at the following link:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/delivering-better-oral-health-an-evidence-based-toolkit-for-prevention

Health Education England has undertaken a three-year review of education and training which is being implemented through the Dental Education Reform Programme to improve recruitment and retention.

In July 2022, we announced measures to reform National Health Service dental services to increase access for patients and remunerate dentists fairly for caring for patients with complex needs. We are also working with NHS England and the sector on longer-term improvements to make NHS dentistry a more attractive place to work.

The Health and Care Act 2022 sets out the minimum membership requirement of the integrated care boards, which include representatives from National Health Service trusts, primary care and local authorities. However, by local agreement, these minimum requirements can be supplemented  in order to address local needs.

The Government continues to be guided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) on who should be offered COVID-19 vaccinations. On 15 July 2022, the Government accepted the JCVI’s advice that the primary aim of the COVID-19 booster vaccine programme this autumn should be to augment immunity in those who are at higher risk from COVID-19 and thereby optimise protection against severe COVID-19, specifically hospitalisation and death, over winter 2022 to 2023. This includes all adults aged 50 years and over and individuals aged five to 49 in a clinical risk group. The clinical risk groups for COVID-19 vaccination are defined in the UK Health Security Agency’s ‘Green Book’ on vaccines and immunisation.

The information is not held in the format requested and could only be obtained at disproportionate cost.