Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Labour) on Friday, 10 April 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 14 April 2026. It was answered by Chris McDonald (Labour) on Monday, 20 April 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.

Helium: Regulation

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of introducing temporary restrictions on the (a) public sale and (b) commercial use of helium.

Answer

Helium is vital for the UK’s economic growth and security, industrial strategy, and clean energy transition. DBT is working across Government mapping supply chains and assessing risks, mitigations, and potential interventions, conducting detailed analysis including on emerging risks.

Through the 2025 UK Critical Minerals Strategy we will build strong partnerships with key markets to diversify production and processing and strengthen our supply chains, alongside working with key existing producers.

At present, in response to the Middle East situation, the Government’s approach is to work collaboratively with industry, the healthcare sector and international partners to improve supply resilience, encourage efficient use, and support the development of alternative technologies and recovery systems, rather than to introduce blanket restrictions.

We encourage any business experiencing disruption to visit business.gov.uk to access support and guidance.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
125313
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Regulation Sales Helium
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk