Stephen Crabb Portrait

Stephen Crabb

Conservative - Former Member for Preseli Pembrokeshire

First elected: 5th May 2005

Left House: 30th May 2024 (Dissolution)


Welsh Affairs Committee
27th Jan 2020 - 30th May 2024
Liaison Committee (Commons)
20th May 2020 - 30th May 2024
Welsh Grand Committee
18th Jan 2022 - 30th May 2024
Liaison Sub-Committee on National Policy Statements
22nd Sep 2021 - 30th May 2024
Committee on Exiting the European Union
11th Sep 2017 - 6th Nov 2019
Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union
11th Sep 2017 - 6th Nov 2019
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
19th Mar 2016 - 14th Jul 2016
Secretary of State for Wales
15th Jul 2014 - 19th Mar 2016
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Wales Office) (Jointly as a paid Lord Commissioner of HM Treasury (Whip) - House of Commons)
6th Sep 2012 - 15th Jul 2014
Lord Commissioner (HM Treasury) (Whip) (Jointly as unpaid Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Wales Office)
6th Sep 2012 - 15th Jul 2014
Assistant Whip (HM Treasury)
12th May 2010 - 6th Sep 2012
Opposition Whip (Commons)
19th Jan 2009 - 6th May 2010
International Development Committee
9th Nov 2007 - 13th Jul 2009
Treasury Committee
17th Nov 2008 - 9th Feb 2009
Welsh Affairs Committee
17th Jul 2005 - 17th Dec 2007


Division Voting information

Stephen Crabb has voted in 3161 divisions, and 18 times against the majority of their Party.

4 Sep 2019 - European Union (Withdrawal) (No. 6) Bill - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 57 Conservative Aye votes vs 180 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 65 Noes - 495
1 Apr 2019 - Business of the House - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 28 Conservative Aye votes vs 264 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 322 Noes - 277
27 Mar 2019 - Business of the House - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 33 Conservative Aye votes vs 272 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 331 Noes - 287
27 Mar 2019 - EU: Withdrawal and Future Relationship Votes - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted No - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 94 Conservative No votes vs 157 Conservative Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 160 Noes - 400
27 Mar 2019 - EU: Withdrawal and Future Relationship Votes - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 37 Conservative Aye votes vs 225 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 188 Noes - 283
27 Mar 2019 - EU: Withdrawal and Future Relationship Votes - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 59 Conservative Aye votes vs 200 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 65 Noes - 377
27 Mar 2019 - EU: Withdrawal and Future Relationship Votes - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 34 Conservative Aye votes vs 234 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 264 Noes - 272
27 Mar 2019 - EU: Withdrawal and Future Relationship Votes - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted No - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 122 Conservative No votes vs 126 Conservative Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 139 Noes - 422
14 Mar 2019 - UK’s Withdrawal from the European Union - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 112 Conservative Aye votes vs 188 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 412 Noes - 202
13 Mar 2019 - UK’s Withdrawal from the European Union - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted No - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 66 Conservative No votes vs 149 Conservative Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 164 Noes - 374
7 Sep 2011 - Health and Social Care (Re-committed) Bill - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 94 Conservative Aye votes vs 115 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 118 Noes - 368
1 Apr 2009 - Nick Cousins - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 27 Conservative Aye votes vs 83 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 304 Noes - 103
3 Mar 2009 - Select Committees (Chairmen), Liaison Committee and Green Book - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 11 Conservative Aye votes vs 26 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 242 Noes - 73
12 Nov 2008 - Deferred Division - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 2 Conservative No votes vs 139 Conservative Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 430 Noes - 54
20 May 2008 - Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill [Lords] - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 40 Conservative Aye votes vs 70 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 71 Noes - 393
20 May 2008 - Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill [Lords] - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 50 Conservative Aye votes vs 67 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 84 Noes - 387
9 Jan 2008 - Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 7 Conservative Aye votes vs 15 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 64 Noes - 316
27 Apr 2021 - Delegated Legislation - View Vote Context
Stephen Crabb voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 77 Conservative No votes vs 222 Conservative Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 431 Noes - 89
View All Stephen Crabb Division Votes

All Debates

Speeches made during Parliamentary debates are recorded in Hansard. For ease of browsing we have grouped debates into individual, departmental and legislative categories.

Sparring Partners
Nia Griffith (Labour)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Wales Office)
(39 debate interactions)
Owen Smith (Labour)
(39 debate interactions)
Simon Hart (Conservative)
(35 debate interactions)
View All Sparring Partners
Department Debates
Wales Office
(435 debate contributions)
Cabinet Office
(296 debate contributions)
Department for Work and Pensions
(176 debate contributions)
HM Treasury
(165 debate contributions)
View All Department Debates
View all Stephen Crabb's debates

Latest EDMs signed by Stephen Crabb

22nd January 2019
Stephen Crabb signed this EDM on Tuesday 22nd January 2019

CENTENARY OF THE GOVERNMENT CHIEF WHIP'S OFFICE

Tabled by: Lord McLoughlin (Conservative - Derbyshire Dales)
That this House congratulates the Office of the Government Chief Whip on reaching its centenary year; further congratulates Sir Roy Stone, Principal Private Secretary, on his knighthood in the 2019 New Year's Honours list; notes that Sir Roy is only the fourth person since 1919 to hold the position of …
35 signatures
(Most recent: 12 Feb 2019)
Signatures by party:
Conservative: 27
Labour: 3
Democratic Unionist Party: 2
Liberal Democrat: 1
Independent: 1
Scottish National Party: 1
10th October 2016
Stephen Crabb signed this EDM on Wednesday 12th October 2016

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ABERFAN DISASTER

Tabled by: Gerald Jones (Labour - Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare)
That this House sends a message of wholehearted support to the people of Aberfan, Merthyr Vale and surrounding communities in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the Aberfan Disaster on 21 October 1966 that resulted in the loss of 116 children and 28 adults, an event of such unimaginable and …
76 signatures
(Most recent: 22 Mar 2017)
Signatures by party:
Labour: 39
Scottish National Party: 14
Conservative: 6
Independent: 6
Liberal Democrat: 4
Democratic Unionist Party: 3
Plaid Cymru: 2
Social Democratic & Labour Party: 2
The Independent Group for Change: 1
Ulster Unionist Party: 1
Non-affiliated: 1
View All Stephen Crabb's signed Early Day Motions

Commons initiatives

These initiatives were driven by Stephen Crabb, and are more likely to reflect personal policy preferences.

MPs who are act as Ministers or Shadow Ministers are generally restricted from performing Commons initiatives other than Urgent Questions.



Latest 50 Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department
14th Apr 2022
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, when he expects the National Security Adviser to complete his review of the sale of Newport Wafer Fab to Nexperia; and if he will make a statement.

The Government is considering the case and no decisions have been made. As part of that consideration the National Security Adviser was asked to review this case. We are unable to comment on the details of national security assessments.

10th Mar 2022
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether he plans to publish the findings and recommendations from the Supply Chain Taskforce which concluded its report in January 2022.

In October 2021, the Prime Minister appointed Sir Dave Lewis as his Supply Chains Adviser. Sir Dave Lewis worked with the Cabinet Office Supply Chains Unit, across HM Government and with industry, meeting over 100 businesses from a range of sectors, to help resolve a number of acute and short term issues. Sir Dave Lewis advised the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on immediate improvements and long-termer changes to improve the UK’s supply chain resilience.

There is no standalone report for publication; however, Sir Dave Lewis' final recommendations included:

  1. ensuring that government continues to build and embed departmental capability and collaboration on supply chains policy;

  2. that government builds stronger capability to horizon scan, spot risks early, and collate and utilise data to determine and solve supply chains data;

  3. working with industry to consider how best to optimise existing infrastructure capacity;

  4. improving cross-modal connectivity.

HM Government has already put in place many measures to deal with the extraordinary set of circumstances brought on by the pandemic and the global economy rebounding. The resilience of the UK’s supply chains remains a key priority for this Government.

27th Jan 2022
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of the continued use of new Border Control Points following implementation of the Digital Borders programme.

The Government's Target Operating Model for a modernised UK border is set out in the 2025 Border Strategy, which was published in December 2020. As this sets out, we are seeking to digitise as much of the border process as possible. However, there will always be a need for some physical interventions at the border and, therefore, a continued role for Border Control Posts.

12th Mar 2018
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what estimate he has made of the number of adults born in the UK to non-UK parents who are permanently living in the UK and who have not established UK citizenship.

The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the Authority to reply.

6th Feb 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what her planned timetable is for the implementation of the Shipbuilding Credit Guarantee Scheme.

The Shipbuilding Credit Guarantee Scheme (SCGS) was officially launched on 26 July 2023, and we are continuing to work closely with the National Shipbuilding Office on all aspects of scheme implementation.

The SCGS is a £500 million scheme to help ship buyers and operators to access finance to purchase UK-built vessels and upgrade existing ones. It guarantees a percentage of the value of loans used to purchase, refit, retrofit or repair vessels, sharing the risk with lenders. The scheme forms part of the Government’s £4 billion plan to revitalise UK shipbuilding and coastal communities through the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh, announced in 2022.

There have been 32 expressions of interest in the scheme so far and we are now working at pace to finalise the first transactions supported by the scheme.

6th Feb 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what estimate she has made of the value to shipyards of the Shipbuilding Credit Guarantee Scheme.

The Shipbuilding Credit Guarantee Scheme (SCGS) is a £500m loan guarantee scheme, supporting eligible ship buyers and operators to access finance to buy UK-built vessels and upgrade existing ones. The scheme forms part of the Government’s £4bn plan to revitalise UK shipbuilding and coastal communities through the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh, announced in 2022.

The value generated by the scheme will depend on the details of individual transactions, but each SCGS deal agreed will directly benefit UK shipyards, supply chains and coastal communities right across the UK.

29th Jun 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether she has had recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the implications for the Government's policies of the research being undertaken at universities with Iranian scientists on drone technology.

The Government take all allegations of breaches of export controls or sanctions seriously, and officials in my department have been leading a review of the allegations made in the recent press articles. They are working at pace with others in the Ministry of Defence, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) to establish the facts and assess if any export controls (Military, Dual-Use, UK National) or relevant sanctions regulations may have been contravened.

The outcome of this review will determine what further action may be needed. If there has been a potential breach of the sanctions or export controls, HMRC and/or OFSI will consider appropriate enforcement action.

29th Jun 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether she has had recent discussions with universities that are undertaking research on drone technology in collaboration with Iranian scientists.

We take all allegations of breaches of sanctions or export controls seriously, and my officials are leading a review of the allegations made in recent press articles that UK universities are collaborating with Iran to develop drones and other technologies which may be linked to Iran’s military programmes.

They are working at pace with others in the Ministry of Defence, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) to establish the facts and assess if any export controls (Military, Dual-Use, UK National) or relevant sanctions regulations may have been contravened.

In parallel, the Research Collaboration Advice Team (RCAT) - which advises research institutions on national security risks linked to international collaboration - is establishing what due diligence was carried out by the institutions identified to date.

The outcome of this review will determine what further action may be needed. If there has been a potential breach of the sanctions or export controls, HMRC and/or Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) will consider appropriate enforcement action.

29th Jun 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, if she will make an assessment of the adequacy of compliance with (a) sanctions and (b) restrictions on exports of the research being undertaken at universities with Iranian scientists on drone technology.

The Government takes all credible allegations of breaches of sanctions and export controls seriously, and the enforcement agencies will take further action if appropriate. The UK has a number of sanctions in place against Iran including against Iranian UAV manufacturers and related military individuals and executives.

Officials in my department have been leading a review of the allegations made in the recent press articles. They are working at pace with others in the Ministry of Defence, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) to establish the facts and assess if any export controls (Military, Dual-Use, UK National) or relevant sanctions regulations may have been contravened.

The outcome of this review will determine what further action may be needed. If there has been a potential breach of the sanctions or export controls, HMRC and/or OFSI will consider appropriate enforcement action.

23rd Apr 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if she will make an assessment of the adequacy of pot two of the contract for difference allocation round six in the context of the eligibility of the Green Volt floating offshore wind project.

National Grid (ESO) is currently assessing applications to Allocation Round 6 of the Contracts for Difference scheme. Once all applications have been reviewed and any appeals processes completed, my Rt hon Friend the Secretary of State will have the opportunity to consider revising the budget.

Andrew Bowie
Shadow Minister (Veterans)
23rd Apr 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether she has received recent representations from relevant stakeholders on the adequacy of pot two within the contract for difference allocation round six for supporting at least three floating offshore wind test and demonstration projects.

The Department engages regularly with renewable electricity developers across a range of technologies, including floating offshore wind and tidal. The parameters for Allocation Round 6 include a budget of £105 million for Pot 2. My Rt hon Friend the Secretary of State will have the opportunity to review the budget once eligibility checks and appeals are complete.

Andrew Bowie
Shadow Minister (Veterans)
26th Jan 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what steps he is taking to ensure that households unable to get energy smart meters are not (a) disadvantaged or (b) prevented from achieving the best energy rates when seeking the services of an energy provider.

The Government wants households and small businesses to benefit from smart metering as soon as possible. The vast majority of consumers can now have a smart meter. The rollout is making good progress, with 54% of gas and electricity meters across Great Britain now smart. The Government has introduced minimum annual installation targets for energy suppliers.

The Data Communications Company (DCC), which operates the national communications infrastructure for smart metering, is obligated under its licence to provide communications coverage to at least 99.25% of premises across Great Britain. In addition, the DCC is also required to assess opportunities to increase the overall level of coverage where it is practicable and cost proportionate.

26th Jan 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, whether he is taking steps to make alternative measures available for rural households who are unable to have a Smart Meter.

The Government wants as many households and small businesses as possible to benefit from smart metering, and millions of consumers across Great Britain, in different types of geographies, are already realising these benefits.

The Data Communications Company (DCC), which operates the national communications infrastructure for smart metering, is obligated under its licence to provide communications coverage to at least 99.25% of premises across Great Britain. The Government holds this data at a Great Britain level and is not able to disaggregate at constituency or individual nation level.

In addition, the DCC is also required to assess opportunities to increase the overall level of coverage where it is practicable and cost proportionate.

26th Jan 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what estimate he has made of the number of properties (a) Preseli Pembrokeshire constituency, (b) Wales and (c) the UK that are unable to have an energy smart meter installed.

The Government wants as many households and small businesses as possible to benefit from smart metering, and millions of consumers across Great Britain, in different types of geographies, are already realising these benefits.

The Data Communications Company (DCC), which operates the national communications infrastructure for smart metering, is obligated under its licence to provide communications coverage to at least 99.25% of premises across Great Britain. The Government holds this data at a Great Britain level and is not able to disaggregate at constituency or individual nation level.

In addition, the DCC is also required to assess opportunities to increase the overall level of coverage where it is practicable and cost proportionate.

26th Jan 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what steps he is taking to increase the number of rural households which are able to have an energy smart meter installed.

The Government wants as many households and small businesses as possible to benefit from smart metering, and millions of consumers across Great Britain, in different types of geographies, are already realising these benefits.

The Data Communications Company (DCC), which operates the national communications infrastructure for smart metering, is obligated under its licence to provide communications coverage to at least 99.25% of premises across Great Britain. The Government holds this data at a Great Britain level and is not able to disaggregate at constituency or individual nation level.

In addition, the DCC is also required to assess opportunities to increase the overall level of coverage where it is practicable and cost proportionate.

18th Nov 2022
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, when he plans to announce the allocation of Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme funding to support the development of floating offshore wind power.

The Government understands the importance of ports for the development of floating offshore wind to support the opportunities that this new industry offers the UK. The Government is engaging with stakeholders and analysing feedback following the launch of the Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme Request for Information earlier this year, and the next steps on the Scheme will be set out soon.

10th Mar 2022
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the recruitment industry on (a) skills shortages and (b) improving productivity in the labour market.

The Recruitment and Employment Confederation met with us on 27th October 2021 to discuss skills shortages and they regularly attend PBS Sector Calls to outline their views. These occur broadly monthly, the last was on the 9th of March, with both ministerial and recruitment sector representatives. We welcome their continued engagement on these important issues.

23rd Nov 2020
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what representations he has received from the UK oil refining industry on the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales from 2030.

The Department has regular contact with the UK Petroleum Industry Association and individual refineries on the role of the downstream oil sector in meeting the UK’s target of net zero emissions by 2050. Most recently discussions focused on the UK Petroleum Industry Association’s October report “Transition, Transformation and Innovation: Our Role in the Net-Zero Challenge”, including the potential for the sector to make a contribution in the areas of low carbon liquid fuels, hydrogen, CCUS, and other innovative technologies.

As regards the Government’s announcement to end the sale of new diesel and petrol cars in the UK by 2030, all sectors had the opportunity to make representations in the consultation led by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles.

23rd Nov 2020
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what assessment he has made of the economic effect on the UK oil refining sector of the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales from 2030.

The Department has regular contact with the UK Petroleum Industry Association and individual refineries on the role of the downstream oil sector in meeting the UK’s target of net zero emissions by 2050. Most recently discussions focused on the UK Petroleum Industry Association’s October report “Transition, Transformation and Innovation: Our Role in the Net-Zero Challenge”, including the potential for the sector to make a contribution in the areas of low carbon liquid fuels, hydrogen, CCUS, and other innovative technologies.

As regards the Government’s announcement to end the sale of new diesel and petrol cars in the UK by 2030, all sectors had the opportunity to make representations in the consultation led by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles.

23rd Nov 2020
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what discussions he has had with UK oil refiners on the provision of additional support for the industry to adapt their operations ahead of the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales from 2030.

The Department has regular contact with the UK Petroleum Industry Association and individual refineries on the role of the downstream oil sector in meeting the UK’s target of net zero emissions by 2050. Most recently discussions focused on the UK Petroleum Industry Association’s October report “Transition, Transformation and Innovation: Our Role in the Net-Zero Challenge”, including the potential for the sector to make a contribution in the areas of low carbon liquid fuels, hydrogen, CCUS, and other innovative technologies.

As regards the Government’s announcement to end the sale of new diesel and petrol cars in the UK by 2030, all sectors had the opportunity to make representations in the consultation led by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles.

16th Jun 2020
What steps his Department is taking to ensure that workplaces are safe during the covid-19 outbreak.

We have published comprehensive guidance to help ensure workplaces are as safe as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic. This guidance has been developed with input from firms, unions, industry bodies and the devolved administrations, and in consultation with Public Health England and the Health and Safety Executive.

2nd Mar 2020
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what steps his Department is taking to incentivise industry to engage in the Industrial Cluster Mission challenge; and what financial mechanisms his Department is assessing to support the development low-carbon liquid fuels.

The Department is engaging and working closely with industry partners on the delivery of the Industrial Clusters Mission. We are providing funding, through the £170 million Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge, to support industry with the deployment of low carbon technologies in industrial clusters.

Through the BEIS Energy Innovation Programme the Department has committed £20 million towards assessing the opportunity for industry to switch to low carbon fuels. The Industrial Fuel Switching competition is supporting four projects based across the UK to trial these alternative fuels, improving our understanding on the impact they may have on industry.

2nd Mar 2020
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what progress the Industrial Cluster Mission has made; and what further steps the Government is taking with industry to attract the investment required to make industrial clusters effective.

The Industrial Clusters Mission is supported through the £170 million Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge (IDC). This funding is expected to be matched by up to £261 million from industry.

Phase 1 of the IDC is now underway, in which industrial clusters will develop plans for the deployment of low carbon technologies and ‘roadmaps’ for achieving net zero. Under Phase 2, up to £131 million will be awarded for projects that will help deliver significant emissions reductions. Up to £8 million will be awarded for the development of the roadmaps.

The IDC will also support the establishment of the £20m Industrial Decarbonisation Research and Innovation Centre, which will carry out research and cross-cutting activities to further support decarbonisation efforts in industrial clusters and delivery of the Mission.

17th Oct 2018
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what steps he plans to take to ensure the continuation of the Single Electricity Market on the island of Ireland in the event that the UK leaves the EU Internal Energy Market.

The Government is committed to facilitating the continuation of the Single Electricity Market in any scenario. We are developing plans for EU Exit for the Single Electricity Market with Northern Ireland institutions,  and these plans are being designed to provide the flexibility to respond to different negotiated outcomes, as well as the unlikely event of no agreement being reached.

17th Oct 2018
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what assessment he has made of the possibility of the UK remaining a member of the EU Internal Energy Market but not sharing a common rule-book with other members.

The UK is exploring with the EU the options for our future energy relationship. One option would be for the UK to participate in the Internal Energy Market (IEM). In this case, the UK proposes a common rulebook with the EU on the technical rules for electricity trading, such as the market coupling mechanism.

14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, when she next plans to meet representatives of the betting and gaming industry.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s ministers and officials meet regularly with a range of gambling stakeholders, including industry and charity representatives, to hear their views on the sector and discuss areas of concern. These meetings will continue in the lead up to publication of the white paper, and afterwards.

All ministerial meetings are published on GOV.UK and can be accessed on the website.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, how many meetings her Department has had with the betting and gaming industry since the appointment of a new minister with responsibility for gambling.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s ministers and officials meet regularly with a range of gambling stakeholders, including industry and charity representatives, to hear their views on the sector and discuss areas of concern. These meetings will continue in the lead up to publication of the white paper, and afterwards.

All ministerial meetings are published on GOV.UK and can be accessed on the website.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, how many meetings she has had with the betting and gaming industry since her appointment.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s ministers and officials meet regularly with a range of gambling stakeholders, including industry and charity representatives, to hear their views on the sector and discuss areas of concern. These meetings will continue in the lead up to publication of the white paper, and afterwards.

All ministerial meetings are published on GOV.UK and can be accessed on the website.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, how many meetings she has had with gambling charities since her appointment.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s ministers and officials meet regularly with a range of gambling stakeholders, including industry and charity representatives, to hear their views on the sector and discuss areas of concern. These meetings will continue in the lead up to publication of the white paper, and afterwards.

All ministerial meetings are published on GOV.UK and can be accessed on the website.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if her Department will make an estimate of the level of problem gambling in the UK.

As set out in Public Health England’s evidence review on gambling-related harms, the estimated overall adult population problem gambling rate for England was 0.5% in 2018. The 2016 Great Britain wide combined Health Survey found a problem gambling rate of 0.7%. The overall rate has been stable below 1% for over two decades, but there are variations below this headline level depending on region, age, sex and other factors.

To supplement the Health Surveys and for more up to date information, the Gambling Commission carries out a quarterly survey by telephone on a smaller sample using a shortened problem gambling screen. For the year to December 2022 this estimated an adult population problem gambling rate of 0.2%.

The Government’s Review of the Gambling Act aims to ensure the right protections and requirements on operators are in place to prevent harm. We will publish a white paper setting out our assessment, conclusions and next steps in the coming weeks.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what estimate she has made of problem gambling rates.

As set out in Public Health England’s evidence review on gambling-related harms, the estimated overall adult population problem gambling rate for England was 0.5% in 2018. The 2016 Great Britain wide combined Health Survey found a problem gambling rate of 0.7%. The overall rate has been stable below 1% for over two decades, but there are variations below this headline level depending on region, age, sex and other factors.

To supplement the Health Surveys and for more up to date information, the Gambling Commission carries out a quarterly survey by telephone on a smaller sample using a shortened problem gambling screen. For the year to December 2022 this estimated an adult population problem gambling rate of 0.2%.

The Government’s Review of the Gambling Act aims to ensure the right protections and requirements on operators are in place to prevent harm. We will publish a white paper setting out our assessment, conclusions and next steps in the coming weeks.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what estimate her Department has made of the (a) size of the gambling black market and (b) annual cost to the Exchequer of Illegal betting.

The Government recognises the contribution that the betting and gaming industry makes to the economy. Estimates indicate that the sector accounted for £5.7 billion or 0.3% of UK Gross Value added (GVA) in 2019 and pays approximately £2 billion per year to the exchequer in gambling duties, excluding Lottery Duty.

The Government’s Review of the Gambling Act 2005 has been looking as part of its broad scope at the size of the black market and how easy illegal websites are to access, as well as whether the Gambling Commission has the powers and resources it needs. We will publish a white paper in the coming weeks.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if she will make an estimate of the contribution of the betting and gaming industry to the economy.

The Government recognises the contribution that the betting and gaming industry makes to the economy. Estimates indicate that the sector accounted for £5.7 billion or 0.3% of UK Gross Value added (GVA) in 2019 and pays approximately £2 billion per year to the exchequer in gambling duties, excluding Lottery Duty.

The Government’s Review of the Gambling Act 2005 has been looking as part of its broad scope at the size of the black market and how easy illegal websites are to access, as well as whether the Gambling Commission has the powers and resources it needs. We will publish a white paper in the coming weeks.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, when she plans to publish the Gambling Act Review White Paper.

Our review of the Gambling Act 2005 is the most comprehensive review of gambling regulation since the 2005 Act came into force. We will publish a white paper setting out our conclusions and next steps in the coming weeks.

Stuart Andrew
Opposition Chief Whip (Commons)
3rd Oct 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps his Department is taking to ensure full funding for UK participants in Erasmus+ in the 2020-21 academic year.

The government places great value upon international exchange and collaboration in education and training. This will continue to be the case after we leave the EU and establish new relationships with academic institutions across Europe and the rest of the world.

We want to leave the EU with a deal but are preparing for a range of outcomes. Our officials are preparing for all eventualities. We are considering a wide range of options with regards to the future of international exchanges, which include potential domestic alternatives to the Erasmus+ programme for the 2020/21 academic year, should we need them.

11th Jun 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether he has made an assessment of the potential soft power benefits of the UK's full association with the next Erasmus+ programme after the UK leaves the EU.

I refer My hon. Friend, the Member for Preseli Pembrokeshire to the answer I gave on 8 May 2019 to Question 252019.

The government is considering the value for money of the UK's participation in the Erasmus+ programme. Ultimately, any decisions about our participation in the Erasmus+ programme will also be a matter for wider negotiations about our future relationship with the EU.

11th Jun 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment he has made of the potential economic effect of the UK not being associated with the next Erasmus+ programme and its income and living expenditure grants.

I refer My hon. Friend, the Member for Preseli Pembrokeshire to the answer I gave on 8 May 2019 to Question 252019.

The government is considering the value for money of the UK's participation in the Erasmus+ programme. Ultimately, any decisions about our participation in the Erasmus+ programme will also be a matter for wider negotiations about our future relationship with the EU.

6th Mar 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, how the Government's funding mechanism for Erasmus+ underwrites will work in practice; and which body or bodies will be responsible for allocating that money to students.

Under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement, UK-based organisations and individuals will be able to bid for funding, as well as participating in and leading consortia, for the duration of the current programmes. I have regular discussions with ministers from other government departments on preparations for leaving the EU, including on this issue.

While securing a negotiated deal remains the government’s top priority, we are committed to ensuring that organisations, students and participating staff are prepared in the event of a no deal EU exit, and have accelerated no deal preparations to ensure we are ready for every eventuality. To provide more clarity, we published a new technical notice at the end of January, which provides detailed guidance to organisations and students on the UK’s anticipated participation in the current Erasmus+ programme (2014 to 2020) in the event of no deal. You can read this here: https://bit.ly/2GaP28y.

As is set out in this notice, the government’s underwrite guarantee will cover the payment of awards to UK organisations for all successful (those that are approved directly by the European Commission or by the National Agency and ratified by the European Commission) Erasmus+ bids. This includes projects and participants that are only informed of their success, or who sign a grant agreement, after the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, and commits to underwrite funding for the entire lifetime of the projects.

This is reliant on the UK government reaching an agreement with the EU for UK organisations to continue participating in Erasmus+ projects. The delivery of the government guarantee will seek to maintain the same processes as those that are currently in place where funding will be distributed to beneficiaries via the Erasmus+ UK National Agency.

My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education and I meet with representatives of universities regularly to discuss the Department for Education agenda, and that has included the question of participation in the Erasmus+ programme. We have also discussed this in our frequent conversations with member state counterparts in the EU. For example, in recent months these have included discussions with German, Dutch and Polish ministerial counterparts, among others.

With regards to the next Erasmus+ Programme (2021-27), the UK is open to participating in this. We have been considering the draft regulation for the successor scheme carefully and will continue to participate in discussions on them while we remain in the EU. Ultimately, participation in the successor programme is a matter for negotiations to come about our future relationship with the EU.

6th Mar 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what recent discussions his Department has had with his EU counterparts on the UK seeking association to the next Erasmus programme regardless of whether the UK leaves the EU with a withdrawal agreement.

Under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement, UK-based organisations and individuals will be able to bid for funding, as well as participating in and leading consortia, for the duration of the current programmes. I have regular discussions with ministers from other government departments on preparations for leaving the EU, including on this issue.

While securing a negotiated deal remains the government’s top priority, we are committed to ensuring that organisations, students and participating staff are prepared in the event of a no deal EU exit, and have accelerated no deal preparations to ensure we are ready for every eventuality. To provide more clarity, we published a new technical notice at the end of January, which provides detailed guidance to organisations and students on the UK’s anticipated participation in the current Erasmus+ programme (2014 to 2020) in the event of no deal. You can read this here: https://bit.ly/2GaP28y.

As is set out in this notice, the government’s underwrite guarantee will cover the payment of awards to UK organisations for all successful (those that are approved directly by the European Commission or by the National Agency and ratified by the European Commission) Erasmus+ bids. This includes projects and participants that are only informed of their success, or who sign a grant agreement, after the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, and commits to underwrite funding for the entire lifetime of the projects.

This is reliant on the UK government reaching an agreement with the EU for UK organisations to continue participating in Erasmus+ projects. The delivery of the government guarantee will seek to maintain the same processes as those that are currently in place where funding will be distributed to beneficiaries via the Erasmus+ UK National Agency.

My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education and I meet with representatives of universities regularly to discuss the Department for Education agenda, and that has included the question of participation in the Erasmus+ programme. We have also discussed this in our frequent conversations with member state counterparts in the EU. For example, in recent months these have included discussions with German, Dutch and Polish ministerial counterparts, among others.

With regards to the next Erasmus+ Programme (2021-27), the UK is open to participating in this. We have been considering the draft regulation for the successor scheme carefully and will continue to participate in discussions on them while we remain in the EU. Ultimately, participation in the successor programme is a matter for negotiations to come about our future relationship with the EU.

6th Mar 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the future of the Erasmus programme for UK students after the UK leaves the EU.

Under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement, UK-based organisations and individuals will be able to bid for funding, as well as participating in and leading consortia, for the duration of the current programmes. I have regular discussions with ministers from other government departments on preparations for leaving the EU, including on this issue.

While securing a negotiated deal remains the government’s top priority, we are committed to ensuring that organisations, students and participating staff are prepared in the event of a no deal EU exit, and have accelerated no deal preparations to ensure we are ready for every eventuality. To provide more clarity, we published a new technical notice at the end of January, which provides detailed guidance to organisations and students on the UK’s anticipated participation in the current Erasmus+ programme (2014 to 2020) in the event of no deal. You can read this here: https://bit.ly/2GaP28y.

As is set out in this notice, the government’s underwrite guarantee will cover the payment of awards to UK organisations for all successful (those that are approved directly by the European Commission or by the National Agency and ratified by the European Commission) Erasmus+ bids. This includes projects and participants that are only informed of their success, or who sign a grant agreement, after the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, and commits to underwrite funding for the entire lifetime of the projects.

This is reliant on the UK government reaching an agreement with the EU for UK organisations to continue participating in Erasmus+ projects. The delivery of the government guarantee will seek to maintain the same processes as those that are currently in place where funding will be distributed to beneficiaries via the Erasmus+ UK National Agency.

My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education and I meet with representatives of universities regularly to discuss the Department for Education agenda, and that has included the question of participation in the Erasmus+ programme. We have also discussed this in our frequent conversations with member state counterparts in the EU. For example, in recent months these have included discussions with German, Dutch and Polish ministerial counterparts, among others.

With regards to the next Erasmus+ Programme (2021-27), the UK is open to participating in this. We have been considering the draft regulation for the successor scheme carefully and will continue to participate in discussions on them while we remain in the EU. Ultimately, participation in the successor programme is a matter for negotiations to come about our future relationship with the EU.

14th Oct 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps he is taking to reduce the use of polystyrene in packaging.

Packaging materials, including polystyrene, are already covered by the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations which place a legal obligation on businesses that make or use packaging to ensure that a proportion of the packaging they sell is recovered and recycled. This creates an incentive for companies to use less packaging and to ensure that their packaging can be recycled at end of life as it will reduce their costs in complying with the Regulations.

In general, we prefer to help people and companies make the right choice, rather than banning items outright. We have, however, recently consulted on changes to the packaging producer responsibility scheme, looking at all aspects of the regime including mechanisms to encourage increased recyclability.

14th Oct 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether the Government is seeking to remain a member of European Chemicals Agency after the UK leaves the EU.

The Government is committed to an ambitious, broad, deep and flexible economic partnership with the EU. We want a deal that allows us to be in control of our own laws. The details of this partnership, including the possibility of cooperation with relevant European Chemicals Agency, including on REACH, will be a matter for negotiation with the EU after we leave the European Union.

We are preparing for that negotiation and will work with a wide range of partners to ensure a successful outcome for UK business and citizens.

14th Oct 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment the Government has made of the potential merits of the UK staying aligned to the REACH chemical regulations after the UK leaves the EU.

The Government is committed to an ambitious, broad, deep and flexible economic partnership with the EU. We want a deal that allows us to be in control of our own laws. The details of this partnership, including the possibility of cooperation with relevant European Chemicals Agency, including on REACH, will be a matter for negotiation with the EU after we leave the European Union.

We are preparing for that negotiation and will work with a wide range of partners to ensure a successful outcome for UK business and citizens.

14th Oct 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what representations she has received from industry on the UK’s ongoing relationship with the European Chemicals Agency after the UK leaves the EU.

Ministers and officials have been engaging throughout the UK with businesses of all sizes and their representatives and trade associations to ensure we understand the sector’s priorities for our future relationship with the EU, including its priorities relating to European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

We have heard these views from businesses in meetings, correspondence and at large scale stakeholder events. Through this engagement we have also heard of industry’s concerns of the potential impacts to business and disruption to supply chains resulting from divergence from the EU REACH regulations.

We recognise the importance of the EU trade to the Chemicals sector and will continue to work, up to and after our exit from the EU with a wide range of partners to ensure a successful outcome for UK business and citizens.

14th Oct 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what representations she has received from industry on the effect of divergence from REACH regulations after the UK leaves the EU.

Ministers and officials have been engaging throughout the UK with businesses of all sizes and their representatives and trade associations to ensure we understand the sector’s priorities for our future relationship with the EU, including its priorities relating to European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

We have heard these views from businesses in meetings, correspondence and at large scale stakeholder events. Through this engagement we have also heard of industry’s concerns of the potential impacts to business and disruption to supply chains resulting from divergence from the EU REACH regulations.

We recognise the importance of the EU trade to the Chemicals sector and will continue to work, up to and after our exit from the EU with a wide range of partners to ensure a successful outcome for UK business and citizens.

23rd Jan 2019
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, which EU countries have banned the use of metaldehyde for agricultural purposes.

The Netherlands has also prohibited outdoor use of metaldehyde. Denmark, Finland and Sweden did not agree with the approval of metaldehyde and have not authorised its use in agriculture.