Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Department for Education

Oral Answers to Questions

Tom Pursglove Excerpts
Tuesday 15th March 2016

(8 years, 8 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Anna Soubry Portrait Anna Soubry
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I am happy to discuss the figures with the hon. Gentleman, but as we know, we have a Chancellor and indeed a Government who are absolutely committed to the northern powerhouse, with hand and with heart—and that is what we continue to do.

Tom Pursglove Portrait Tom Pursglove (Corby) (Con)
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As Ministers know, the steel industry is a very important employer in Corby, and with the final pre-Budget discussions taking place, would Ministers impress on the Chancellor that a business rates holiday for the industry would be very welcome news?

Anna Soubry Portrait Anna Soubry
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We will always continue to fight for our steel industry. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and I understand the need to look at business rates and particularly plant and machinery, and we continue to put these important arguments forward. Whether or not we will be successful, we can only know tomorrow.