Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Rebecca Smith and Bridget Phillipson

Wednesday 5th February 2025 Commons Chamber

[Bridget Phillipson]

I agree with my hon. Friend about the importance of the issue she identifies. I will ensure that the relevant Minister picks up on the point and ensures that electoral administrators are aware of their responsibilities.

[Rebecca Smith (South West Devon) (Con)]

T6. The Government have a long-standing position that they do not engage with the Muslim Council of Britain, so why did the Minister for Social Security and Disability decide to breach collective responsibility to attend a recent dinner hosted by the MCB?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Rebecca Smith and Bridget Phillipson

Monday 9th September 2024 Commons Chamber

[Bridget Phillipson]

The hon. Gentleman makes an important point about ensuring that placements are available. I am happy to ensure that he has a discussion with the Minister for Skills to make sure we address his concerns about hospitality.

[Rebecca Smith (South West Devon) (Con)]

Alderman Tooling in my constituency is one of thousands of employers now investing in the talent of tomorrow. In five years’ time, does the Secretary of State expect the number of apprentices to be higher or lower than today?

[Bridget Phillipson]

I pay tribute to all the businesses across our country that are providing high-quality skills training and apprenticeship starts. However, apprenticeship starts for the under-25s fell by 38% in the period 2015-16 to 2022-23. It will fall to this Labour Government to turn that around.