Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Tom Brake and Chris Elmore

Thursday 28th March 2019 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

And if the hon. Lady is not satisfied, we might have to look at it again, preferably sooner rather than later.

[Chris Elmore (Ogmore) (Lab)]

May I press the right hon. Gentleman on the regional and national diversity of apprentices? We are a UK House of Commons and House of Parliament. It would therefore be good if apprentices from across the UK feel that they can access the schemes. We should also ensure that we are more diverse by ensuring that we have more women apprentices—they can become Clerk of the House or serve as head of security. Diversity is extremely important. We cannot just preach it; we must also practise it.

[Tom Brake]

I agree entirely with the hon. Gentleman. He may be aware that the House works with Amazing Apprenticeships, an organisation that goes out nationally to 3,500 schools and colleges. Among other things, it is creating a short film about what happens in the House, which I hope has a positive impact on his diversity concerns.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Tom Brake and Chris Elmore

Thursday 29th November 2018 Commons Chamber

[Tom Brake]

I will certainly pursue that suggestion to ensure that the food here is not only British, but healthy as well.

[Chris Elmore (Ogmore) (Lab)]

Following the question of my hon. Friend the Member for Bristol West (Thangam Debbonaire), may I stress to the right hon. Gentleman that there really is a need for more diversity in the food served by the catering outlets, particularly vegetarian and vegan food? This is an extremely important issue for members of the public and Members of the House.