Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if he will make an assessment of the potential implications for his policies of trends in the number of deaths directly attributable to alcohol in the last five years.

Answered by Ashley Dalton - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The following table shows the number of alcohol-specific deaths in England, deaths that have been wholly caused by alcohol consumption, for all age groups, from 2019 to 2023:

The Department will continue to work across Government to better understand how we can best reduce alcohol-related harms, including alcohol specific deaths.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what information his Department holds on the number of deaths that were directly attributable to alcohol in each of the last five years.

Answered by Ashley Dalton - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The following table shows the number of alcohol-specific deaths in England, deaths that have been wholly caused by alcohol consumption, for all age groups, from 2019 to 2023:

The Department will continue to work across Government to better understand how we can best reduce alcohol-related harms, including alcohol specific deaths.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions has he had with stakeholders within the medical equipment industry on the provision of medical equipment to care facilities.

Answered by Karin Smyth - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

Local National Health Service procuring authorities are responsible for assessing the timeliness and quality of the medical equipment delivered for their patients, procured under contracts they hold with suppliers.

The Department works closely with partners across the health system and medical technology landscape, including individual suppliers, trade associations, patient groups, and devolved administrations, to provide challenges and to ensure that stakeholder input is at the right level and at the right time. However, local NHS bodies are responsible for the provision of medical equipment to care facilities.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent assessment he has made of the (a) timeliness and (b) quality of medical equipment delivered to community care facilities for recently discharged hospital patients.

Answered by Karin Smyth - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

Local National Health Service procuring authorities are responsible for assessing the timeliness and quality of the medical equipment delivered for their patients, procured under contracts they hold with suppliers.

The Department works closely with partners across the health system and medical technology landscape, including individual suppliers, trade associations, patient groups, and devolved administrations, to provide challenges and to ensure that stakeholder input is at the right level and at the right time. However, local NHS bodies are responsible for the provision of medical equipment to care facilities.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the UK's explosive ordnance removal capabilities in (a) the UK and (b) internationally.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Ministry of Defence has a world leading Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Search capability, providing critical support to military operations and UK resilience.

Additionally, Defence recognises the importance of Explosive Ordnance Clearance (EOC) capabilities delivered both internally and to external stakeholders. As we look ahead, Defence spending is being prioritised to face the threats and challenges of the twenty-first century. To meet the demand for EOC services, we currently have a framework through the Counter Explosive Ordnance Defence Engagement office, and in conjunction with the FCDO, to deliver EOC capability through a contracted solution, assured by Defence.

Future capability decisions will be subject to the outcomes of the Strategic Defence Review.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent discussions he has had with charities that provide assistance to veterans who have (a) conducted and (b) assisted with Explosive Ordnance Disposal duties.

Answered by Al Carns - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)

The Government works closely with the Armed Forces charity sector, who play a vital part in the wider support system for veterans; I meet regularly with representatives of Armed Forces charities to discuss the support available and how we can work effectively together. I am actively exploring ways of simplifying and coordinating access to Government support, which includes working in partnership with the charity sector to harness and cohere that support.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent steps his Department has taken to help tackle maternal health inequalities in (a) Slough and (b) Berkshire.

Answered by Karin Smyth - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

It is unacceptable that there are such stark inequalities for women and babies. It is a priority for the Government to make sure that all women and babies receive the high-quality care they deserve, regardless of their background, location, or ethnicity.

Actions to tackle maternal health inequalities at the Slough and East Berkshire maternity services include, but are not limited to:

- a Rapid Communication Aid, developed to assist in identifying patient needs in 30 languages;

- free midwife-led antenatal education classes in Urdu, focusing on birth preparation for over 24 weeks gestation;

- a culturally competent genetics service being established, to support informed decision-making for close relative couples;

- equity training for staff on mandatory update day; and

- the implementation of the MAMAs phone line, a triage service staffed by midwives with interpretation services.

The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust has also focused on addressing inequalities through measures such as improving access to perinatal mental health services and antenatal and preconception information, and by promoting an increase in folic acid uptake.

Progress has also been made nationally in recent years. As part of NHS England's three-year plan, all local areas have now published Equity and Equality action plans to tackle inequalities for women and babies from ethnic minorities and for those living in the most deprived areas. However, we recognise that more is required. We are working closely with NHS England, and the wider sector, to identify the right actions and interventions that will deliver the required change.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has had recent discussions with his (a) French, (b) Italian and (c) other EU nations' counterparts on accelerating the transfer of (i) ammunition and (ii) other armaments to Ukraine.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

We are in frequent contact with partner nations to discuss how to collectively accelerate the transfer of ammunition and other armaments to Ukraine. As co-leaders of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group the UK is taking a leading role in ensuring coordination and coherence of international support to Ukraine.

With European partners, we are also members of the artillery capability coalition and co-leads of the maritime and drone capability coalitions, which deliver immediate support to Ukraine and also have a long-term plan to support Ukraine's ambitions for a NATO interoperable future force.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps he is taking to prevent the unauthorised disclosure of Cabinet discussions to the media.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

As set out at chapter 5 of the ministerial code, the principle of collective responsibility requires that the privacy of ministerial discussions at Cabinet and its committees should be maintained. It is therefore a long established precedent that information relating to the proceedings of Cabinet and its committees is not normally shared publicly.

It is the longstanding policy of successive governments not to comment on specific leak investigations.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to improve adult social care provision.

Answered by Stephen Kinnock - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

We recognise the challenges facing the adult social care system, and we are taking immediate action to improve the situation. These actions include:

• making up to £3.7 billion of additional funding available for social care authorities in 2025/26, including a £880 million increase in the Social Care Grant, resulting in a 6.8% increase to local government spending power in cash terms;
• taking forward a range of initiatives in 2025/26, including funding more home adaptations, promoting better use of care technologies, and professionalising the adult social care workforce;
• increasing the Carer's Allowance weekly earnings limit in April 2025 from £151 a week to £196, to support our unpaid family carers;
• introducing the first ever Fair Pay Agreement to the adult social care sector so that care professionals are recognised and rewarded for the important work that they do; and
• launching an independent commission, which will begin in April 2025, as part of our critical first steps towards delivering a National Care Service. Chaired by Baroness Louise Casey, the commission will make clear recommendations for how to rebuild the adult social care system to meet the current and future needs of the population.

Under the Care Act 2014, local authorities are tasked with the duty to shape their care markets to meet the diverse needs of all local people. This includes commissioning a diverse range of care and support services that enable people to access quality care. The Department funds an annual programme of support to local authorities and their partners to help them improve the delivery of their statutory duties.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what recent discussions she has had with Student Finance England on potential accommodations for students who have to pause studies for medical reasons.

Answered by Janet Daby - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

Students who are absent from their course for more than 60 days due to illness and have agreed with their higher education (HE) provider to suspend their studies can apply to Student Finance England (SFE) to continue their cost of living support payments.

The HE provider must notify SFE that the student is suspending their studies, giving the reasons for suspending and providing an agreed date of return, generally up to a maximum of one year’s absence or up to two years in exceptional circumstances. SFE will consider each case on its own merits, including the reasons for the absence, whether the student will face financial hardship during their absence, whether the student has dependants and the prospect of the student returning to the course.

If a student needs to repeat a year of study due to compelling personal reasons (CPR), they may be entitled to an additional year of tuition fee funding in addition to their standard entitlement. SFE will request evidence to support a claim that the repeat year was for CPR. For instance, the student might be able to provide medical evidence from their GP. Ultimately, the decision is for SFE to make based on the evidence provided and the individual merits of each case.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what estimate he has made of the number of data centres built in England in each of the last five years.

Answered by Chris Bryant - Minister of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)

The Government has not historically collected figures on the growth of data centre capacity but has monitored the market periodically and through industry engagement. Other sources for this historical data are available, for example through Tech UK or CBRE's market outlooks.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what recent assessment he has made of the availability of full-fibre broadband in Slough constituency.

Answered by Chris Bryant - Minister of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)

The government is committed to delivering 2030 nationwide gigabit connectivity coverage, with 86% of premises now able to access a gigabit-capable connection thanks to a pro-competition regulatory environment. There is now a thriving market of over 100 providers, investing over £40bn rolling out gigabit broadband all over the UK.

Project Gigabit primarily focuses on the rural areas which are the hardest to reach commercially. We anticipate that the majority of urban areas will receive gigabit-capable broadband through commercial investment. While there is no planned build in Slough under Project Gigabit, the government continues to review the best ways to address gaps in coverage in urban areas.

CityFibre and Gigaclear are delivering Project Gigabit-funded contracts across the South East of England. Alongside them, we continue to engage closely with local businesses and residents regarding rollout.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what recent discussions he has had with (a) local businesses and (b) residents on the coverage of full-fibre broadband in (i) Slough constituency and (ii) South East England.

Answered by Chris Bryant - Minister of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)

The government is committed to delivering 2030 nationwide gigabit connectivity coverage, with 86% of premises now able to access a gigabit-capable connection thanks to a pro-competition regulatory environment. There is now a thriving market of over 100 providers, investing over £40bn rolling out gigabit broadband all over the UK.

Project Gigabit primarily focuses on the rural areas which are the hardest to reach commercially. We anticipate that the majority of urban areas will receive gigabit-capable broadband through commercial investment. While there is no planned build in Slough under Project Gigabit, the government continues to review the best ways to address gaps in coverage in urban areas.

CityFibre and Gigaclear are delivering Project Gigabit-funded contracts across the South East of England. Alongside them, we continue to engage closely with local businesses and residents regarding rollout.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps he has taken to increase coverage of full-fibre broadband availability in Slough constituency.

Answered by Chris Bryant - Minister of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)

The government is committed to delivering 2030 nationwide gigabit connectivity coverage, with 86% of premises now able to access a gigabit-capable connection thanks to a pro-competition regulatory environment. There is now a thriving market of over 100 providers, investing over £40bn rolling out gigabit broadband all over the UK.

Project Gigabit primarily focuses on the rural areas which are the hardest to reach commercially. We anticipate that the majority of urban areas will receive gigabit-capable broadband through commercial investment. While there is no planned build in Slough under Project Gigabit, the government continues to review the best ways to address gaps in coverage in urban areas.

CityFibre and Gigaclear are delivering Project Gigabit-funded contracts across the South East of England. Alongside them, we continue to engage closely with local businesses and residents regarding rollout.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what recent estimate she has made of the average waiting time for a child to receive an education, health and care plan in (a) England, (b) Berkshire and (c) Slough constituency.

Answered by Catherine McKinnell - Minister of State (Education)

The department publishes official statistics on education, health and care (EHC) plans annually and these can be accessed here: https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/education-health-and-care-plans. This includes data at local authority level on the rate of EHC plans issued within the statutory deadline of twenty weeks.

The table linked below shows the number of plans issued within the statutory 20-week deadline for each of the 6 unitary authorities in Berkshire, and the overall figure for England, for the 2023 calendar year:

https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/data-tables/permalink/929ca39b-d31e-43d9-ce9b-08dd66bfee22.

Information at constituency level is not available.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking tackle skills gaps within the defence industry.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) recognises that attracting and retaining the right mix of skills is critical to sustaining a vibrant, innovative and competitive UK defence sector. This is an important area of focus in the development of the Defence Industrial Strategy and will be a topic given close attention by the Defence Industrial Joint Council. The MOD continues to work closely with the Department for Education, the Department for Business and Trade and defence sector companies to ensure the sector has access to the skilled workforce it requires.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what estimate his Department has made of the number of vacancies for welders within the defence industry.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The demand for craft skills, including welders, is recognised across the defence sector and is a particular area of interest for the joint Government and industry Shipbuilding Skills Delivery Group. Meeting this demand is also recognised as a challenge across the economy and not solely as an issue for defence. As part of the ongoing Defence Industrial Strategy work, the Ministry of Defence is closely engaged with the Department for Education to identify additional opportunities and approaches to meet the future demand.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he is taking steps to reduce the duration of submarine patrols.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Royal Navy has successfully maintained Operation RELENTLESS – the Continuous At Sea Deterrent – without interruption for over 56 years. We do not disclose details of the operation, including the duration of time spent at sea, as such information could be used to undermine the security and capability of the mission and our personnel.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking with Cabinet colleagues to expand (a) apprenticeship schemes and (b) skills training to meet demand for welders within the defence industry.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is working closely with Skills England and the Department for Education to ensure the boost in defence spending supports the training and development of new generations of defence sector workers required to support critical capabilities. The demand for craft skills, including welders, is a recognised challenge across the economy and is not solely an issue for defence.

The MOD is one of the largest providers of apprenticeships in the UK with over 25,000 apprenticeships across the Armed Forces and Civil Service in 2024. Within industry, the defence trade association ADS estimated that there were around 8,100 apprentices in the UK defence sector in 2024. The future skills requirement for defence is being assessed as part of the ongoing development of the Strategic Defence Review and the Defence Industrial Strategy.

Question to the Attorney General:

To ask the Solicitor General, pursuant to the Answer of 24 March 2025 to Question 39549 on Nicholas Prosper, if she will take steps to inform hon. Members when a decision has been made.

Answered by Lucy Rigby - Solicitor General (Attorney General's Office)

I can confirm that either the Attorney General or I will write to the hon. Member to inform him of the decision.

Sentences examined by the Attorney General’s Office under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme are published on GOV.UK. This includes the sentences examined, the outcome, and details of the cases. This information is updated weekly and I would invite the hon. Members to review the data published.

Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, how much compensation was provided for (a) childcare, (b) other care, (c) food and drink, (d) travel and (e) parking costs to people on jury duty in real terms in each of the last five years.

Answered by Sarah Sackman - Minister of State (Ministry of Justice)

Jurors can claim an amount towards loss of earnings and other costs incurred as a direct result of jury service, subject to a daily maximum. They can also claim travel costs and a contribution towards their refreshments.

HMCTS does not collect or collate data specifically on all categories of expenses requested here but can disaggregate certain payments made. Parking charges are incorporated into the travel costs and all types of additional care (e.g. childcare and care of vulnerable adults) are amalgamated. The information available is set out in the following table.

Costs in 2024 prices (using CPI data)

The expenses covered in the table above represent only a proportion of total expenses paid to jurors each year. For example, in 2024, a total of £36.5 million was paid in juror allowance, including the £12,750,765 set out under the categories requested in the question asked.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps he is taking to help increase the numbers of leading international scientists who choose to undertake their research in the UK.

Answered by Feryal Clark - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

The UK boasts a world-leading science base, supported by top universities and research institutions. We are open for business in science and technology and aim to be the destination of choice for globally mobile top talent.

DSIT is committed to working with the R&D sector, including academia and industry, to attract and retain top talent in the UK. This includes funding through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the National Academies, which offer prestigious fellowships and professorships.

The UK's association with the Horizon Europe programme has also opened more opportunities for British scientists and researchers, providing access to extensive funding streams and a collaborative environment that attracts top-tier talent globally.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the Answer of 20 December 2024 to Question 19379 on Marginal Tax Rates, whether she has made an assessment of the potential impact of people earning just under £100,000 (a) working additional hours and (b) receiving a pay rise on the (i) 60% effective marginal rate of taxation and (ii) loss of childcare support.

Answered by James Murray - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

As set out previously, within the personal tax system, withdrawal of the Personal Allowance affects those with income over £100,000 a year. It was introduced in 2010-11 and occurs gradually, with £1 of allowance lost for every £2 of income above the income limit of £100,000, implying an effective marginal income tax rate of 60 per cent. This reduction continues until the Personal Allowance is completely withdrawn for those with incomes above £125,140.

The Government recognises that because of this, taxpayers with incomes within the taper band face a higher a marginal tax rate and that it introduces some complexity into the tax system. However, removing this would be expensive and regressive.

Families are not eligible for the 30 free hours or tax-free childcare offers if one parent earns over £100,000. The income cap is per person and aligns with an existing boundary in the tax system. This means there is no incentive for the lower earner in the household to reduce their income in order to be eligible.

The Government is committed to managing the public finances in a balanced and responsible way, and this means continuing to target support at those who need it most.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs on the implications of the use of Artificial Intelligence on the water supply.

Answered by Feryal Clark - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

My department has discussed the implications of Artificial Intelligence with DEFRA, and representatives from UK water companies, on multiple occasions. We also engage the AI data centre industry to understand how water is used and explore potential alternatives or ways to minimise any potential impact on supplies and output of wastewater. Data centres, and the compute they provide, will also play a major role in powering the high-tech solutions to environmental challenges.

Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, if she will make an assessment of trends in the level of compensation provided for (a) childcare, (b) other care, (c) food and drink, (d) travel and (e) parking costs to people on jury duty in real terms in the last five years.

Answered by Sarah Sackman - Minister of State (Ministry of Justice)

The jury process is a cornerstone of the justice system in England and Wales. Jury service is an important civic duty and jurors play a vital role in upholding justice. The Government will keep under review all support provided to jurors throughout their period of service. This will include, but not be limited to, assessing any significant trends in compensation applications or payments, as well as other participation-related data.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of access to mental health support for people who are (a) homeless and (b) in temporary accommodation.

Answered by Stephen Kinnock - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

We recognise the importance of reducing barriers to healthcare services for those experiencing homelessness, this includes those in temporary accommodation.

All local health systems should have mechanisms in place to ensure their mental health services can support people who are homeless. This should include work to routinely complete a mental health needs assessment for rough sleepers which will identify need and lead directly to action that increases access to mental health services for this population. As part of the NHS Long Term Plan, new specialist mental health provision for rough sleepers was established in 37 of the areas that most in needed it between 2019/20 and 2023/24. An evaluation of these services is currently being undertaken.

We are also working across Government, the health system, local government, commissioners, and the voluntary sector to review and support implementation of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence’s guidance on integrated health and social care for people experiencing homelessness, both nationally and locally.

Question to the Attorney General:

To ask the Solicitor General, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of referring the sentencing of Nicholas Prosper to the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

Answered by Lucy Rigby - Solicitor General (Attorney General's Office)

The Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme allows the Law Officers to refer a sentence which appears unduly lenient to the Court of Appeal for it to review. If referred, the Court has the power to increase the sentence if it agrees that it is unduly lenient.

There is a high threshold for a successful ULS reference. The sentence must be not just lenient but unduly so, for example if the sentencing judge made a gross error or imposed a sentence outside the range of sentences reasonably available in the circumstances of the offence.

In this specific case, I can confirm my office has received a number of requests to review the sentencing of this individual under the ULS scheme.

The Attorney General and I have 28 days from the date of sentence to consider the case and decide whether to refer it to the Court of Appeal.

Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, whether her Department is taking steps with (a) local authorities and (b) industry stakeholders to help increase the sustainability of (i) live music venues and (ii) other aspects of the night-time economy.

Answered by Chris Bryant - Minister of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)

The government is urging the live music industry to introduce a voluntary levy on tickets for stadium and arena shows, to help safeguard the future of the grassroots music sector. We welcome steps taken by industry to set up a charitable trust to distribute funds from the ticket levy, and commitments made by artists to support grassroots music. DCMS will continue to work closely with the music sector and Arts Council England on the implementation of the industry-led ticket levy.

In addition, we are continuing to support Arts Council England’s (ACE’s) Supporting Grassroots Music Fund by providing £2.5 million funding in 2025-26, which provides grants to grassroots music organisations, including those that host or promote electronic music.

The government recognises the role of night time economy businesses in supporting resilient high streets, and we are focused on our five-point plan to breathe life back into Britain’s high streets, to ensure they are great places for businesses, and economic growth across the UK.

To protect the high street, from 2026-27, the government intends to introduce permanently lower tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) properties with rateable values (RV) less than £500,000. To provide further support, the government has extended RHL relief at 40% for 2025-26.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with UK Export Finance on funding for the Mozambique liquefied natural gas project.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office regularly engages with UK Export Finance officials on funding for the Liquified National Gas Project in Mozambique. UK Export Finance is currently in talks with project sponsors and other lenders regarding the latest status of the project. These discussions are commercially sensitive and remain ongoing.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with (a) the families of British citizens and (b) British citizens impacted by the (i) ongoing security situation surrounding the Mozambique liquefied natural gas project and (ii) insurgency in the Cabo Delgado region.

Answered by Hamish Falconer - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK continues to support British nationals throughout the ongoing IS-Mozambique insurgency in northern Mozambique. This includes engagement with families of those affected by security issues in Cabo Delgado. The UK is supporting efforts to counter the insurgency there, including through programmes aimed at building local resilience to violent extremism.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make an estimate of the impact of changing the tax free personal allowance to £20,000 on tax receipts.

Answered by James Murray - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government is committed to keeping taxes for working people as low as possible while ensuring fiscal responsibility and so, at our first Budget, we decided not to extend the freeze on personal tax thresholds.

The Government has no plans to increase the Personal Allowance to £20,000. Increasing the Personal Allowance to £20,000 would come at a significant fiscal cost of many billions of pounds per annum. This would reduce tax receipts substantially, decreasing funds available for the UK’s hospitals, schools, and other essential public services that we all rely on. It would also undermine the work the Chancellor has done to restore fiscal responsibility and economic stability, which are critical to getting our economy growing and keeping taxes, inflation, and mortgages as low as possible.

The Government keeps all taxes under review as part of the policy making process. The Chancellor will announce any changes to the tax system at fiscal events in the usual way.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to ensure the resilience of (a) energy supplies and (b) energy infrastructure that provide power to (i) critical infrastructure and (ii) sites of national strategic importance.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Resilience of critical national infrastructure is paramount, and that includes having resilient power.

There are high levels of resilience in the national electricity system, and I would like to reassure my hon Friend that the Government works closely with industry to continually improve and maintain the resilience of energy infrastructure.

Alongside Ofgem, the Secretary of State has commissioned the National Energy System Operator to carry out a review to investigate the power disruption to Heathrow on Friday 21 March, and to understand any wider lessons to be learned on energy resilience for critical national infrastructure.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The median age of computers issued to officials in the Department is four years.

Question to the Wales Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Jo Stevens - Secretary of State for Wales

The Wales Office does not hold this information. The Department’s computers are provided by the Ministry of Justice.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Karin Smyth - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

The median age of laptops issued to officials in the Department is four years.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she plans to alter her policies on the (a) eligibility (b) use (c) thresholds for London house prices and (d) withdrawal penalties criteria for the Lifetime ISA.

Answered by Emma Reynolds - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Lifetime ISA remains narrowly focused on supporting people to achieve the aspiration of home ownership, or to build up savings for later life.

The property price cap supports most first-time buyers across the UK while targeting households that may find it most difficult to get onto the property ladder. Data from the latest UK House Price Index shows that while the average price paid by first-time buyers has increased since the introduction of the Lifetime ISA, it is still below the LISA property price cap in all regions of the UK except for London, where the average price paid is affected by boroughs with very high property values

Any unauthorised withdrawals are subject to a 25% withdrawal charge. This recoups the Government bonus, any interest or growth arising from it, and a proportion of the individual’s initial savings.

The Government keeps all aspects of savings tax policy under review.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The response below covers the central department (DfTc) and the five Executive Agencies: Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA), Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and Active Travel England (ATE).

Please note: DfT(c) handle all IT devices for Active Travel England (ATE) and so they are included in the returns for DfT(c).

The median age of computers issued is below:

DfT(C) (inc. ATE): 1.6 years old.

DVLA: 2 years old.

DVSA: 2.5 years old.

VCA: 4.16 years old.

MCA: 2.5 years old.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Feryal Clark - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

The median age of laptops and desktop computers in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology is 1.5 years.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of the number of welders to meet demand in the (a) infrastructure, (b) construction and (c) manufacturing sector.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

We are working across Government to understand the demand impacts for the construction sector to deliver our built environment and infrastructure commitments. This includes working with Skills England, who will bring businesses, training partners and unions together with national and local government to develop a clear assessment of the country’s skills need – and map pathways by which they can be filled.

On 23 March, Government announced reforms that will get young people into well paid, high skilled, jobs in the construction sector by funding additional placements, establishing Technical Excellence Colleges, launching new foundation apprenticeships, and expanding Skills Bootcamps.

Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Hilary Benn - Secretary of State for Northern Ireland

The Northern Ireland Office is unable to provide the median age of laptop and desktop computers. The mean age of laptop and desktop computers issued to officials in the Northern Ireland Office is two years.

Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Stephanie Peacock - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)

The median age of laptop computers in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport is 2.3 years.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Alex Norris - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The median age of devices in use at MHCLG is 2.5 years old (deployed in 2023).

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by James Murray - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

HM Treasury does not record the age of computers.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Andrew Western - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Work and Pensions)

The median age of computers issued to officials in DWP is 2 years.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The median age of computers issued to officials in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is two years and one month.

Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Alex Davies-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Justice)

The median age of all Ministry of Justice computers is 2.6 years.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Catherine West - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office median age for its laptop estate issued to officials is currently 1 year.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Diana Johnson - Minister of State (Home Office)

The median age of computers issued to officials is 1.8 years old.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what criteria will be used to determine allocations from the John Bunyan Fund.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) John Bunyan Fund provides funding to overseas posts to support the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for all around the world. UK posts are invited to submit applications that support the central objective of the fund: to curtail FoRB violations and abuses. Diplomatic missions have full control over the exact design and scope of project work to best develop an intervention that suits their specific in-country context and priorities and is complementary to any other financing they receive. Projects must provide value for money, have a clear strategic focus and realistic, tangible outcomes in keeping with FCDO priorities.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The median age of computers issued to officials in the Department is 2 years.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Janet Daby - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)

The median age of computers issued to officials is 3 years and 2 months.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the median age is of computers issued to officials in their Department.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The median age for currently deployed computers is 4.5 years for MacBook and 5 years for Windows devices.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, with reference to the White House's factsheet entitled President Donald J. Trump adjusts imports of automobiles and automobile parts into the United States, published on 26 March 2025, what steps the Government plans to take to respond to the proposed tariffs on UK car and car parts exported to the United States.

Answered by Douglas Alexander - Minister of State (Cabinet Office)

The UK automotive sector is an integral part of driving our economic growth and, like industry, the Government is concerned about the potential impact of automotive tariffs.

We are disappointed by this decision by the United States to impose global tariffs on the automotive industry and know this will be extremely concerning for businesses and consumers. We are keeping all options on the table and will always respond in the national interest. We continue to have productive discussions on securing a wider economic deal.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with international non-governmental organisations that provide official development assistance.

Answered by Stephen Doughty - Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

This government remains fully committed to the UK playing a globally significant role on development; it is both in our national interest and in the interest of our partners across the globe. We are engaging with a range of partners and stakeholders on the decision to reduce the Official Development Assistance budget.

Found: France London SW1H 9GL T: 020 4574 3218 http://www.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/hmcpsi/ Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi

Found: Watch the meeting Members present: Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Chair); Mr Calvin Bailey; Alex Baker;

Found: Watch the meeting Members present: Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Chair); Mr Calvin Bailey; Mike Martin;

Found: Watch the meeting Members present: Matt Western (The Chair); Lord Browne of Ladyton; Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi

Found: Southeast Asia: Christianity 23 Jan 2025 | 24469 Asked by: Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi To ask the

Submit Evidence (by 30 Apr 2025)

This inquiry will examine the AUKUS partnership, a trilateral security agreement between Australia, the US and the UK which was announced in 2021. AUKUS will see the US and UK support Australia in acquiring a nuclear-powered submarine fleet alongside a deepening of co-operation between the three countries on other advanced military technologies. The Committee’s inquiry will consider how AUKUS is progressing against existing milestones and what challenges may need to be addressed to give it the greatest chance of success. It will consider how changes in the geopolitical situation since 2021 may impact the programme, and whether governance and accountability mechanisms across Whitehall are adequate. The full terms of reference can be found in the call for evidence.