Business of the House

Sam Rushworth Excerpts

Thursday 12th November 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I see that the Prime Minister at the time of the referendum was offering advice to our Prime Minister about the way forward on Europe, which I find somewhat ironic. Next week’s UK-EU summit is an opportunity to strike important deals, to boost the economy, to cut red tape, to help businesses grow and to provide opportunities for young people. We have announced that we will introduce a European partnership Bill, and I can assure my hon. Friend that there will be ample opportunity to discuss this important matter.

[Dr Sam Rushworth (Bishop Auckland) (Lab)]

It is my privilege and duty to speak on behalf of the people of Bishop Auckland. One way I can do that is by questioning Ministers in this place, but with more and more issues being devolved, there is no mechanism for Members of Parliament to hold regional mayors to account. Will the Leader of the House give some thought to creating regional committees, so that we can scrutinise the work of devolved authorities?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The Government are absolutely committed to outlining our vision for devolution in England and delivering good growth in every part of the United Kingdom, but my hon. Friend raises a really important matter: how mayors are held to account and scrutinised. Parliament has a really important role in scrutinising both the operation of the devolution system and the stewardship of public money, and I can assure him that these matters are being discussed at the heart of Government.