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To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with devolved administrations and local government regarding food security in the UK.
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with devolved administrations and local government regarding food security in the UK.
Ministers from all four nations discuss food system issues through the Inter-Ministerial Group for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. In addition, officials have regular engagement on a wide range of food security and resilience issues.
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the effects on SEND provision of transferring SEND responsibilities from central government to regional authorities.
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the effects on SEND provision of transferring SEND responsibilities from central government to regional authorities.
Some regional bodies, including Mayoral Strategic Authorities, are already working to support local authorities across their regions, as those local authorities deliver their statutory duties relating to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The department will continue to work with regional authorities to consider how they could further support our reforms to the SEND system to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND. There will be further announcements on devolution in due course.
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had regarding the devolution of education and skills powers to mayoral combined authorities.
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had regarding the devolution of education and skills powers to mayoral combined authorities.
The department engages regularly with Mayoral Strategic Authorities on a wide range of issues, including the devolved skills powers and funding they hold, and their role as leaders in their local skills systems. Skills devolution is an important mechanism for enabling more responsive and locally tailored provision that meets the needs of learners, employers and regional economies.
The government recognises the value of empowering Strategic Authorities to shape skills provision in line with local priorities. Through ongoing engagement, the department will continue to explore opportunities to build on existing devolution arrangements, ensuring that skills investment supports local growth and delivers outcomes that reflect the needs of communities across England.
What taxes can regional mayors raise and could this change with a new Prime Minister?
What taxes can regional mayors raise and could this change with a new Prime Minister?
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Scottish Government about its use of its block grant on international development spending.
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Scottish Government about its use of its block grant on international development spending.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has regular discussions with the Scottish Government on devolved issues, including their development programming. The FCDO offers support to the Scottish Government's development activity overseas, where such activities assist Ministers of the Crown under the terms of the Scotland Act.
To ask His Majesty's Government how many meetings have taken place between the UK and Welsh governments since May 8 2026.
To ask His Majesty's Government how many meetings have taken place between the UK and Welsh governments since May 8 2026.
Since the formation of the new Welsh Government after the Senedd election in May 2026, UK Government ministers have engaged with their Welsh Government counterparts on matters within their areas of responsibility. This includes the Prime Minister’s initial engagement with the First Minister of Wales following his appointment on 20 July. The newly appointed Secretary of State for Wales will also have an early conversation with the First Minister.
The UK Government publishes an intergovernmental relations dashboard on GOV.UK detailing the number of ministerial meetings between the governments. Data for the number of meetings during the first two quarters of 2026 will be published in due course.
Developments and decisions on the reorganisation of English local government in 2025-26
Developments and decisions on the reorganisation of English local government in 2025-26
To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Statement by Baroness Smith of Basildon on 21 July (HLWS298), what is their definition of "good growth in every postcode, across government and the wider economy"; how they expect Number 10 North to deliver this; and over what period.
To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Statement by Baroness Smith of Basildon on 21 July (HLWS298), what is their definition of "good growth in every postcode, across government and the wider economy"; how they expect Number 10 North to deliver this; and over what period.
A briefing paper which "maps" (or summarises) the main elements of the United Kingdom's uncodified constitution.
A briefing paper which "maps" (or summarises) the main elements of the United Kingdom's uncodified constitution.
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the devolved governments about introducing legislation to enshrine a legal right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the devolved governments about introducing legislation to enshrine a legal right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.
There is no international consensus on the legal basis of the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, and no agreement on either the definition of the right or its scope. The UK supported United Nations General Assembly Resolution 76/300 on the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, accompanied by an explanation of vote which referred to this lack of consensus. This Government has no current plans to introduce legislation on the right but is monitoring discussions exploring a new instrument at the international level to enshrine the right, including at the Council of Europe. Officials have previously raised this with the Devolved Governments and will consult with them ahead of any formal international negotiations.
I am making this statement on behalf of the Prime Minister to bring to the attention of the House the following changes to the Machinery of Government.
Today, we are fundamentally rewiring the state, changing the geography of government to deliver a stronger, more strategic centre that empowers local leaders, and...
I am making this statement on behalf of the Prime Minister to bring to the attention of the House the following changes to the Machinery of Government.
Today, we are fundamentally rewiring the state, changing the geography of government to deliver a stronger, more strategic centre that empowers local leaders, and...
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions, if any, they have had with the Welsh Government since 7 May regarding (1) proposals to abolish Police and Crime Commissioners, and (2) any possibility of the Senedd Cymru taking over responsibility for some or all of Police and Commissioners' responsibilities in Wales.
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions, if any, they have had with the Welsh Government since 7 May regarding (1) proposals to abolish Police and Crime Commissioners, and (2) any possibility of the Senedd Cymru taking over responsibility for some or all of Police and Commissioners' responsibilities in Wales.
Since 7 May, UK Government Ministers and officials have continued to engage with the Welsh Government on police reform and future governance arrangements in Wales, including discussions between the Minister for Policing and Crime and Welsh Government Ministers on 7 July, and through established forums such as the Policing Partnership Board for Wales. These discussions have focused on future governance arrangements and the interaction between policing reform and devolved services.
It remains the view of the UK Government that policing in Wales should operate within an integrated England and Wales framework, supporting consistency, interoperability and resilience across both nations. The UK Government’s priority is delivering safer communities and stronger cross-border cooperation within the existing constitutional framework.
We will continue to work closely with the new Welsh Government, Welsh Policing and others to ensure that a new model for police governance works for Wales.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help support timely investment in wastewater infrastructure for new housing developments; and what discussions he has had with his counterparts in the devolved Administrations on this matter.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help support timely investment in wastewater infrastructure for new housing developments; and what discussions he has had with his counterparts in the devolved Administrations on this matter.
The government recognises the importance of wastewater provision on new developments. Water companies are under a statutory duty to provide new sewage connections to residential properties, as well as planning to meet the needs of growth as part of Drainage and Wastewater Management Plans.
The water resources planning guideline published by the Environment Agency and Ofwat, sets out how those companies should forecast demand for water based on existing customers and planned levels of household and non-household growth, with the number of planned developments being based on published local plans.
My officials work closely with other government departments, especially Defra, on matters relating to wastewater capacity and infrastructure. I would also note that responsibility for water and wastewater capacity is devolved, and that devolved institutions are best placed to determine the appropriate approach in their respective nations.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to reduce waiting times for social housing, including changes to the stock of social and affordable housing; and what discussions he has had with his counterparts in the devolved Administrations on this matter.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to reduce waiting times for social housing, including changes to the stock of social and affordable housing; and what discussions he has had with his counterparts in the devolved Administrations on this matter.
Local authorities are responsible for designing and managing their own housing allocations policies to meet local need, including managing their own housing registers (waiting lists).
The government has launched a review into how effectively social housing providers use their properties, including exploring ways to reduce the time homes are left empty, encourage greater movement within the sector to address under-occupancy and overcrowding, and support people to move into more suitable properties.
Housing is a devolved matter but my Department regularly engages with the devolved administrations across a range of issues, including housing.
I otherwise refer the hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statements made on 2 July 2025 (HCWS771) and 28 January 2026 (HCWS1283), and the Social and Affordable Homes Programme policy statement published on 7 November 2025, which can be found on gov.uk here.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the press release, "Mayors meet in York as “devolution revolution” delivers", of 5 June 2026, if he will list each individual Right to Request made to date, and which (a) have been accepted, (b) have...
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the press release, "Mayors meet in York as “devolution revolution” delivers", of 5 June 2026, if he will list each individual Right to Request made to date, and which (a) have been accepted, (b) have...
The government recently ran a shadow Right to Request process, ahead of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act securing Royal Assent. Mayors submitted 43 requests for further devolution through this process. Ministers wrote to Mayors in May to confirm the Government’s response to each request.
The government has already announced detail on several requests which were accepted as part of the first round. This includes decisions which will apply across England – including the devolution of Transport and Works Act Order approvals to all Mayors, and the devolution of Local Innovation Partnerships Funding from the next SR. The 5 June press release referred to in the Honourable Member’s question also lists a number of requests which the Government is taking forward with individual Mayors, to test new approaches in one place before deciding whether to extend these arrangements to other mayoral areas.
The requests submitted by Mayors, and the responses sent to Mayors, have not been published for this shadow round of the process. It is for Mayors to decide whether they wish to share the contents of their letters.
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many meetings his Department has held with the Northern Ireland Executive in the last 12 months on coordinating resilience planning for risks that span reserved and devolved responsibilities.
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many meetings his Department has held with the Northern Ireland Executive in the last 12 months on coordinating resilience planning for risks that span reserved and devolved responsibilities.
As crises do not respect borders or boundaries, resilience is a shared responsibility between individuals, communities, businesses, local, devolved and national government across the UK.
We work in close cooperation at both official and ministerial level on resilience, organising regular ‘four nations’ meeting. These aim to complement the everyday work teams across government do to collaborate with counterparts in the devolved governments on risk and resilience. The most recent meeting was in June.
This group discusses how each government is developing its own strategies and frameworks to strengthen resilience and identify opportunities for greater collaboration.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment has been made of the effectiveness of devolution deals in improving local public services.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment has been made of the effectiveness of devolution deals in improving local public services.
MHCLG has drawn on a range of devolution evidence over time, including evaluations of programmes and interventions delivered through devolved arrangements, wider analysis of devolution-related outcomes, and evidence generated by local areas themselves. This includes support for mayoral areas to evaluate the Investment Funds that have historically accompanied devolution deals. We continue to build the evidence base and are considering what further evaluation would add most value in understanding the impacts of devolution, including on local public services.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of devolution settlements for coastal towns located on the periphery of combined authority areas.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of devolution settlements for coastal towns located on the periphery of combined authority areas.
The Government believes that all communities can benefit from devolution, which places powers in the hands of local leaders who understand the opportunities and challenges facing their areas.
Strategic Authorities can play an important role in addressing the distinct challenges often associated with coastal communities, including economic development, transport connectivity, regeneration and skills.
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 explicitly recognises coastal communities within the areas of competence for Strategic Authorities. This provides a clear basis for mayors and Strategic Authorities to consider the interests of coastal communities when exercising their functions and developing local priorities.
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions he has had with the devolved administrations on establishing a UK-wide framework for the secure sharing of NHS patient data between health services.
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions he has had with the devolved administrations on establishing a UK-wide framework for the secure sharing of NHS patient data between health services.
The Government have cancelled the two main road projects in the east midlands—the A38 in Derby and the A46 in Newark. The Government did not inform anyone. The Labour mayor found out through the trade press that the Government had cancelled the contract, just as I did. What does the Secretary of State have against the east midlands? Will the incoming Prime Minister, who claims to want to see devolution and the empowerment of mayors, do something to fix this mess?
The Government have cancelled the two main road projects in the east midlands—the A38 in Derby and the A46 in Newark. The Government did not inform anyone. The Labour mayor found out through the trade press that the Government had cancelled the contract, just as I did. What does the Secretary of State have against the east midlands? Will the incoming Prime Minister, who claims to want to see devolution and the empowerment of mayors, do something to fix this mess?
Let me be clear that these proposals will be consulted on. The A38 Derby junctions and the A46 Newark bypass schemes are not in contract and are not scheduled to start main construction until the second half of the third road investment strategy. They are not as far progressed as RIS3 enhancement schemes elsewhere, meaning that the implications of potentially cancelling them would have a less significant impact compared with schemes that are further progressed.
Let me be clear that these proposals will be consulted on. The A38 Derby junctions and the A46 Newark bypass schemes are not in contract and are not scheduled to start main construction until the second half of the third road investment strategy. They are not as far progressed as RIS3 enhancement schemes elsewhere, meaning that the implications of potentially cancelling them would have a less significant impact compared with schemes that are further progressed.
Let me be clear that these proposals will be consulted on. The A38 Derby junctions and the A46 Newark bypass schemes are not in contract and are not scheduled to start main construction until the second half of the third road investment strategy. They are not as far progressed as RIS3 enhancement schemes elsewhere, meaning that the implications of potentially cancelling them would have a less significant impact compared with schemes that are further progressed.
The Government have cancelled the two main road projects in the east midlands—the A38 in Derby and the A46 in Newark. The Government did not inform anyone. The Labour mayor found out through the trade press that the Government had cancelled the contract, just as I did. What does the Secretary of State have against the east midlands? Will the incoming Prime Minister, who claims to want to see devolution and the empowerment of mayors, do something to fix this mess?
I welcome the hon. Member to her place and congratulate her on her recent by-election victory.
This Government’s focus is to make the existing devolution settlement work effectively. For too long, we have watched centralisation of decision making taking place at Holyrood, pulling powers away from local communities across Scotland, and it is time that changed. I remind the SNP-led Scottish Government that there is actually a nation outside of and beyond Holyrood: it is called Scotland.
I welcome the hon. Member to her place and congratulate her on her recent by-election victory.
This Government’s focus is to make the existing devolution settlement work effectively. For too long, we have watched centralisation of decision making taking place at Holyrood, pulling powers away from local communities across Scotland, and it is time that changed. I remind the SNP-led Scottish Government that there is actually a nation outside of and beyond Holyrood: it is called Scotland.
Whether he has had recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the devolution of further powers to Scotland.
Devolution appears to be all the rage at the moment, and the Secretary of State will know fine well that the Scottish Parliament recently voted to devolve energy powers back to Scotland. So in this new spirit of renewed co-operation and trust that we are apparently about to start to see, can I ask the Secretary of State when the UK Government will respect the vote of the Scottish Parliament and devolve energy powers back to Scotland?
Devolution appears to be all the rage at the moment, and the Secretary of State will know fine well that the Scottish Parliament recently voted to devolve energy powers back to Scotland. So in this new spirit of renewed co-operation and trust that we are apparently about to start to see, can I ask the Secretary of State when the UK Government will respect the vote of the Scottish Parliament and devolve energy powers back to Scotland?
The SNP seems to respect every vote, apart from the constitutional referendum, in which 84% of the Scottish people exercised their democratic choice. The hon. Member she says that devolution is all the rage. With respect, some of us were early adopters. I campaigned for, voted for and supported the Scotland Act 1998 in this House, arguing for a two-Parliament solution to Scotland’s effective governance. Energy policy is one of the areas of policy that is held here at Westminster, albeit that there are important planning considerations in Westminster, but on the substantive point that the centralisation of powers in Holyrood needs to be reversed, I certainly do agree. The hon. Lady seems to have no comment on that. She is obviously replicating the pattern of behaviour of a certain former First Minister.
The SNP seems to respect every vote, apart from the constitutional referendum, in which 84% of the Scottish people exercised their democratic choice. The hon. Member she says that devolution is all the rage. With respect, some of us were early adopters. I campaigned for, voted for and supported the Scotland Act 1998 in this House, arguing for a two-Parliament solution to Scotland’s effective governance. Energy policy is one of the areas of policy that is held here at Westminster, albeit that there are important planning considerations in Westminster, but on the substantive point that the centralisation of powers in Holyrood needs to be reversed, I certainly do agree. The hon. Lady seems to have no comment on that. She is obviously replicating the pattern of behaviour of a certain former First Minister.
The SNP seems to respect every vote, apart from the constitutional referendum, in which 84% of the Scottish people exercised their democratic choice. The hon. Member she says that devolution is all the rage. With respect, some of us were early adopters. I campaigned for, voted for and supported the Scotland Act 1998 in this House, arguing for a two-Parliament solution to Scotland’s effective governance. Energy policy is one of the areas of policy that is held here at Westminster, albeit that there are important planning considerations in Westminster, but on the substantive point that the centralisation of powers in Holyrood needs to be reversed, I certainly do agree. The hon. Lady seems to have no comment on that. She is obviously replicating the pattern of behaviour of a certain former First Minister.
Devolution appears to be all the rage at the moment, and the Secretary of State will know fine well that the Scottish Parliament recently voted to devolve energy powers back to Scotland. So in this new spirit of renewed co-operation and trust that we are apparently about to start to see, can I ask the Secretary of State when the UK Government will respect the vote of the Scottish Parliament and devolve energy powers back to Scotland?
For 23 years, I proudly served in Scotland’s NHS, working alongside dedicated hard-working brilliant nurses. Under the SNP Government, those very nurses are paying higher income tax than colleagues anywhere else in the UK. Does the Secretary of State agree that instead of demanding more power, the SNP Government should use the powers they already have to concentrate on delivering better public services and better value for Scotland’s taxpayers?
For 23 years, I proudly served in Scotland’s NHS, working alongside dedicated hard-working brilliant nurses. Under the SNP Government, those very nurses are paying higher income tax than colleagues anywhere else in the UK. Does the Secretary of State agree that instead of demanding more power, the SNP Government should use the powers they already have to concentrate on delivering better public services and better value for Scotland’s taxpayers?
I could not agree more. My own mother worked for many years in the NHS in Ayrshire, at Crosshouse hospital. The Scottish Government are, alas, letting those dedicated NHS workers down. After 19 years in power, they must account for their record on public services, from NHS waiting lists to declining school standards. We used to have an education system that was the envy of the world. The priority should be on delivery, not division.
I could not agree more. My own mother worked for many years in the NHS in Ayrshire, at Crosshouse hospital. The Scottish Government are, alas, letting those dedicated NHS workers down. After 19 years in power, they must account for their record on public services, from NHS waiting lists to declining school standards. We used to have an education system that was the envy of the world. The priority should be on delivery, not division.
I could not agree more. My own mother worked for many years in the NHS in Ayrshire, at Crosshouse hospital. The Scottish Government are, alas, letting those dedicated NHS workers down. After 19 years in power, they must account for their record on public services, from NHS waiting lists to declining school standards. We used to have an education system that was the envy of the world. The priority should be on delivery, not division.
For 23 years, I proudly served in Scotland’s NHS, working alongside dedicated hard-working brilliant nurses. Under the SNP Government, those very nurses are paying higher income tax than colleagues anywhere else in the UK. Does the Secretary of State agree that instead of demanding more power, the SNP Government should use the powers they already have to concentrate on delivering better public services and better value for Scotland’s taxpayers?
Famously, we have not heard very much from the right hon. Member for Makerfield (Andy Burnham) on his plans for government, although we do know that he seems to be a fan of devolution and its job-creating opportunities—for him. Well, I can tell colleagues from experience: devolution ain’t everything it’s cracked up to be. In Scotland, we have had 20 years of SNP mismanagement, and a pervasive and deeply damaging devolve-and-forget mentality in London. Will the Secretary of State confirm that Labour will not be devolving any more power to Edinburgh?
Famously, we have not heard very much from the right hon. Member for Makerfield (Andy Burnham) on his plans for government, although we do know that he seems to be a fan of devolution and its job-creating opportunities—for him. Well, I can tell colleagues from experience: devolution ain’t everything it’s cracked up to be. In Scotland, we have had 20 years of SNP mismanagement, and a pervasive and deeply damaging devolve-and-forget mentality in London. Will the Secretary of State confirm that Labour will not be devolving any more power to Edinburgh?
I hardly think that the SNP mismanagement the hon. Gentleman rightly describes should damn devolution in the eyes of everyone in this Chamber. It is perfectly possible to drive a Ferrari into a ditch, which is pretty much what we have seen over the last 19 years.
I hardly think that the SNP mismanagement the hon. Gentleman rightly describes should damn devolution in the eyes of everyone in this Chamber. It is perfectly possible to drive a Ferrari into a ditch, which is pretty much what we have seen over the last 19 years.
I hardly think that the SNP mismanagement the hon. Gentleman rightly describes should damn devolution in the eyes of everyone in this Chamber. It is perfectly possible to drive a Ferrari into a ditch, which is pretty much what we have seen over the last 19 years.
Famously, we have not heard very much from the right hon. Member for Makerfield (Andy Burnham) on his plans for government, although we do know that he seems to be a fan of devolution and its job-creating opportunities—for him. Well, I can tell colleagues from experience: devolution ain’t everything it’s cracked up to be. In Scotland, we have had 20 years of SNP mismanagement, and a pervasive and deeply damaging devolve-and-forget mentality in London. Will the Secretary of State confirm that Labour will not be devolving any more power to Edinburgh?
We have demonstrated that we are unafraid to step in and act when decisions taken by the Scottish Government are to the detriment of Scots and Scotland—for example, in the case of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill a few years ago. Will the Secretary of State commit today to urging the new Prime Minister to think long and hard about how devolution in the hands of the SNP is failing Scotland and Scotland’s economy, and examine how, on this Government’s watch, SNP Ministers have been able to jet around the world on taxpayer jollies, allow British civil servants to draw up plans to tear Britain apart, and spend countless hundreds of thousands pursuing a narrow, divisive agenda that is focused on pulling Scotland apart rather than growing it together?
We have demonstrated that we are unafraid to step in and act when decisions taken by the Scottish Government are to the detriment of Scots and Scotland—for example, in the case of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill a few years ago. Will the Secretary of State commit today to urging the new Prime Minister to think long and hard about how devolution in the hands of the SNP is failing Scotland and Scotland’s economy, and examine how, on this Government’s watch, SNP Ministers have been able to jet around the world on taxpayer jollies, allow British civil servants to draw up plans to tear Britain apart, and spend countless hundreds of thousands pursuing a narrow, divisive agenda that is focused on pulling Scotland apart rather than growing it together?
An awareness of all those issues is not simply for the incoming Prime Minister, but for anybody who reads a newspaper in Scotland. What we have witnessed is a travesty of the potential of devolution. It is not simply the distraction of focusing on issues that are not devolved, but the SNP’s abject failure in policy area after policy area that is devolved: ferries, hospitals, schools—the list goes on.
An awareness of all those issues is not simply for the incoming Prime Minister, but for anybody who reads a newspaper in Scotland. What we have witnessed is a travesty of the potential of devolution. It is not simply the distraction of focusing on issues that are not devolved, but the SNP’s abject failure in policy area after policy area that is devolved: ferries, hospitals, schools—the list goes on.
An awareness of all those issues is not simply for the incoming Prime Minister, but for anybody who reads a newspaper in Scotland. What we have witnessed is a travesty of the potential of devolution. It is not simply the distraction of focusing on issues that are not devolved, but the SNP’s abject failure in policy area after policy area that is devolved: ferries, hospitals, schools—the list goes on.
We have demonstrated that we are unafraid to step in and act when decisions taken by the Scottish Government are to the detriment of Scots and Scotland—for example, in the case of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill a few years ago. Will the Secretary of State commit today to urging the new Prime Minister to think long and hard about how devolution in the hands of the SNP is failing Scotland and Scotland’s economy, and examine how, on this Government’s watch, SNP Ministers have been able to jet around the world on taxpayer jollies, allow British civil servants to draw up plans to tear Britain apart, and spend countless hundreds of thousands pursuing a narrow, divisive agenda that is focused on pulling Scotland apart rather than growing it together?
Whether he has had recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the devolution of further powers to Scotland.
Whether he has had recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the devolution of further powers to Scotland.
I welcome the hon. Member to her place and congratulate her on her recent by-election victory.
This Government’s focus is to make the existing devolution settlement work effectively. For too long, we have watched centralisation of decision making taking place at Holyrood, pulling powers away from local communities across Scotland, and it is time that changed. I remind the SNP-led Scottish Government that there is actually a nation outside of and beyond Holyrood: it is called Scotland.
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales, how many meetings her Department has held with the Welsh Government in the last 12 months on coordinating resilience planning for risks that span reserved and devolved responsibilities.
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales, how many meetings her Department has held with the Welsh Government in the last 12 months on coordinating resilience planning for risks that span reserved and devolved responsibilities.
Resilience is a shared responsibility between individuals, communities, businesses and all levels of government across the UK to ensure we can effectively respond to risks wherever they occur.
Regular meetings take place between the four governments to discuss various strategies and frameworks aimed at strengthening resilience and identifying opportunities for greater collaboration. This complements the everyday collaboration between the UK and Devolved Governments on risk and resilience.
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, how many meetings his Department has held with the Scottish Government in the last 12 months on coordinating resilience planning for risks that span reserved and devolved responsibilities.
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, how many meetings his Department has held with the Scottish Government in the last 12 months on coordinating resilience planning for risks that span reserved and devolved responsibilities.
In reality, crises do not respect borders or boundaries. It is essential that resilience is a shared responsibility between individuals, communities, businesses, local, devolved and national government across the UK to ensure we can effectively respond to risks wherever they occur.
We work in close cooperation at both official and ministerial level on resilience, organising regular ‘four nations’ meetings on resilience. These aim to complement the everyday work teams across government do to collaborate with counterparts in the devolved governments on risk and resilience, most recently convening in June.
This group discusses how each government is developing its own strategies and frameworks to strengthen resilience and identify opportunities for greater collaboration.
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps the Department is taking with the devolved administrations to increase the number of patients able to participate in commercial clinical trials across the UK.
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps the Department is taking with the devolved administrations to increase the number of patients able to participate in commercial clinical trials across the UK.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the capital budget reduction from 2026/7 to 2029/30 on his Department's delivery of its spending plans, and where reductions have been allocated to meet the budget reduction, with...
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the capital budget reduction from 2026/7 to 2029/30 on his Department's delivery of its spending plans, and where reductions have been allocated to meet the budget reduction, with...
Departments have been asked to contribute 1p in every £1 of their capital budgets to fund this Government’s Defence Investment Plan, helping keep the country safe in an increasingly volatile world.
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government will set out further impacts on specific policies and programmes in due course.
Government new clause 8, discussed with Government new clause 9, new clauses 1 to 7, 10, 11, amendments and Government amendments. Government new clauses 8 and 9 agreed to. Amendment 3 negatived on division (93 votes to 323). Government amendments 151 to 168, 26, 28, 32, 33, 37 to 42 agreed to. Amendment 199 negatived on division (102 votes to 409). Amendment 19 negatived on division (104 votes to 412). Government amendments 43 to 72, 169 to 177, 76, 178, 179, 78, 180 to 182, 79, 80, 183 to 197, 91, 198, and 93 to 142 agreed to. King's Consent signified. Third reading agreed to on question and the Bill passed. Ordered, That the period on the expiry of which proceedings on the Public Office (Accountability) Bill shall lapse in pursuance of paragraph (13) of Standing Order No. 80A shall be extended by 136 days until 29 January 2027.
Government new clause 8, discussed with Government new clause 9, new clauses 1 to 7, 10, 11, amendments and Government amendments. Government new clauses 8 and 9 agreed to. Amendment 3 negatived on division (93 votes to 323). Government amendments 151 to 168, 26, 28, 32, 33, 37 to 42...
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time.
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time.
It is an absolute privilege to bring the Bill back to the House on Report. I know that Members across the House have long supported it and have been waiting for its return.
At its heart, this legislation is about what people should expect from the state when the worst happens:...
It is an absolute privilege to bring the Bill back to the House on Report. I know that Members across the House have long supported it and have been waiting for its return.
At its heart, this legislation is about what people should expect from the state when the worst happens:...
Will the Minister give way?
Will the Minister give way?
I am going to make some progress, but I will give way.
It is essential that there is accountability, not denial, so that those affected get the support they need, not obstruction. We often refer to this Bill as the Hillsborough law. Without the determination of the Hillsborough families, we would...
I am going to make some progress, but I will give way.
It is essential that there is accountability, not denial, so that those affected get the support they need, not obstruction. We often refer to this Bill as the Hillsborough law. Without the determination of the Hillsborough families, we would...
Will the Minister give way?
Will the Minister give way?
I will make some progress, and then I will take interventions.
Many have graciously—often at huge personal and emotional cost—shared their experiences with us to shape the Bill. The changes that it brings forward are so needed. It is thanks to their campaigning, perseverance and willingness to work with us to...
I will make some progress, and then I will take interventions.
Many have graciously—often at huge personal and emotional cost—shared their experiences with us to shape the Bill. The changes that it brings forward are so needed. It is thanks to their campaigning, perseverance and willingness to work with us to...
I am proud to have sponsored the original proposal, promoted by the hon. Member for Liverpool West Derby (Ian Byrne), and I salute the survivors and the victims’ families. I am glad that the UK Government have listened to them, and that the Bill reflects the level of accountability required...
I am proud to have sponsored the original proposal, promoted by the hon. Member for Liverpool West Derby (Ian Byrne), and I salute the survivors and the victims’ families. I am glad that the UK Government have listened to them, and that the Bill reflects the level of accountability required...
I thank the right hon. Member for her intervention. She has my assurance that we are clear that the Bill needs to apply across the United Kingdom, and we are working with devolved nations to ensure that happens.
I thank the right hon. Member for her intervention. She has my assurance that we are clear that the Bill needs to apply across the United Kingdom, and we are working with devolved nations to ensure that happens.
The Minister is making a passionate and important speech about a long-overdue piece of legislation. Freddie Scappaticci was the agent known as Stakeknife in the IRA. He was involved in lots of murders, but the Government have yet to unmask him as Scappaticci. Will the Bill put an end to...
The Minister is making a passionate and important speech about a long-overdue piece of legislation. Freddie Scappaticci was the agent known as Stakeknife in the IRA. He was involved in lots of murders, but the Government have yet to unmask him as Scappaticci. Will the Bill put an end to...
I thank my hon. Friend for his intervention. We are seeking a full culture change, and are trying to prevent any kind of attitude of covering things up. I am happy to meet him further to discuss that specific case.
All the work that has been undertaken has enabled us to...
I thank my hon. Friend for his intervention. We are seeking a full culture change, and are trying to prevent any kind of attitude of covering things up. I am happy to meet him further to discuss that specific case.
All the work that has been undertaken has enabled us to...
Will the Minister give way?
Will the Minister give way?
I am going to make some progress, and then I will take interventions again.
The amendments before the House ensure that the duty of candour and assistance applies to all individual intelligence officers, while establishing secure procedures for the disclosure of sensitive information. First, the Bill as introduced did not allow...
I am going to make some progress, and then I will take interventions again.
The amendments before the House ensure that the duty of candour and assistance applies to all individual intelligence officers, while establishing secure procedures for the disclosure of sensitive information. First, the Bill as introduced did not allow...
I am grateful to the Minister for giving way on the matter of the safety of our citizens. I have been contacted over the last couple of years by the family of Major Anthony Hornby MBE, who was a victim of the Chinook crash. Today, the Ministry of Defence is...
I am grateful to the Minister for giving way on the matter of the safety of our citizens. I have been contacted over the last couple of years by the family of Major Anthony Hornby MBE, who was a victim of the Chinook crash. Today, the Ministry of Defence is...
I am very happy to meet the hon. Member and others, specifically in relation to the Ministry of Defence, and to give reassurance on how this can work and be done safely.
I am very happy to meet the hon. Member and others, specifically in relation to the Ministry of Defence, and to give reassurance on how this can work and be done safely.
Will the Minister give way on the point about the duty of candour?
Will the Minister give way on the point about the duty of candour?
If it is specifically in relation to security services, and to security at the moment—
If it is specifically in relation to security services, and to security at the moment—
It is on the duty of candour.
It is on the duty of candour.
If I can just wait—
If I can just wait—
It is important to stress that nothing in this Bill, and nothing about its practical effect, changes our position in relation to national security. Many in our public services work in sensitive roles, and revealing their identity could put them or others at risk. The Bill does not require anyone...
It is important to stress that nothing in this Bill, and nothing about its practical effect, changes our position in relation to national security. Many in our public services work in sensitive roles, and revealing their identity could put them or others at risk. The Bill does not require anyone...
I pay tribute to everyone who has pushed and cajoled the Government to enable us to get to this stage. The Minister mentioned secondary legislation. One of the key areas mentioned in the Grenfell inquiry by Grenfell United and Justice for Grenfell was a national oversight mechanism to make sure...
I pay tribute to everyone who has pushed and cajoled the Government to enable us to get to this stage. The Minister mentioned secondary legislation. One of the key areas mentioned in the Grenfell inquiry by Grenfell United and Justice for Grenfell was a national oversight mechanism to make sure...
It is absolutely right that recommendations are tracked and that we ensure there is a clear way of giving everyone confidence that recommendations will be implemented. The Cabinet Office is doing a significant piece of work to ensure that that is put in place, and both the Cabinet Office and...
It is absolutely right that recommendations are tracked and that we ensure there is a clear way of giving everyone confidence that recommendations will be implemented. The Cabinet Office is doing a significant piece of work to ensure that that is put in place, and both the Cabinet Office and...
I appreciate the way in which the Minister has responded on the national oversight mechanism, but if this is to have teeth, and if it is to deal with both inquiries and inquests, do we not need a separate public body? It is a substantial piece of work.
I appreciate the way in which the Minister has responded on the national oversight mechanism, but if this is to have teeth, and if it is to deal with both inquiries and inquests, do we not need a separate public body? It is a substantial piece of work.
The Government have already taken steps to improve transparency in response to inquiry recommendations, including launching the new gov.uk dashboards, which demonstrate progress in delivering accepted inquiry recommendations. The Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee is currently considering how the implementation of recommendations resulting from future public inquiries should be...
The Government have already taken steps to improve transparency in response to inquiry recommendations, including launching the new gov.uk dashboards, which demonstrate progress in delivering accepted inquiry recommendations. The Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee is currently considering how the implementation of recommendations resulting from future public inquiries should be...
I have given the Government evidence that hundreds of children with special educational needs and disabilities are avoidably killing themselves because of public authority negligence and misconduct, including my constituent Jen Bridges-Chalkley. Does the Minister agree that the first step in tackling this problem is knowing how many of these...
I have given the Government evidence that hundreds of children with special educational needs and disabilities are avoidably killing themselves because of public authority negligence and misconduct, including my constituent Jen Bridges-Chalkley. Does the Minister agree that the first step in tackling this problem is knowing how many of these...
The Office of the Chief Coroner has continued work to improve access to prevention of future deaths reports, while the Government seek to strengthen arrangements for responding to concerns raised through them, including better and more strategic use of technology. In addition to the work that the Public Administration and...
The Office of the Chief Coroner has continued work to improve access to prevention of future deaths reports, while the Government seek to strengthen arrangements for responding to concerns raised through them, including better and more strategic use of technology. In addition to the work that the Public Administration and...
Do the Minister and the Government agree with the principle that an independent body should oversee the Government’s performance in responding to inquiry recommendations? Is that the way we are going to go forwards? The way that the Government—not just this one, but others in the past—have responded to recommendations...
Do the Minister and the Government agree with the principle that an independent body should oversee the Government’s performance in responding to inquiry recommendations? Is that the way we are going to go forwards? The way that the Government—not just this one, but others in the past—have responded to recommendations...
It is clear that there needs to be public confidence about what happens to any recommendations, and this is therefore an area of work that is being considered. I am happy to ensure that my hon. Friend is kept up to date with the work as it continues.
I will now...
It is clear that there needs to be public confidence about what happens to any recommendations, and this is therefore an area of work that is being considered. I am happy to ensure that my hon. Friend is kept up to date with the work as it continues.
I will now...
I think there is widespread welcome in the House for the expansion of legal aid, but does the Minister agree that allowing advocacy for each family only to the first person who manages to apply for it might cause some problems subsequent to disasters like Hillsborough? What will she do...
I think there is widespread welcome in the House for the expansion of legal aid, but does the Minister agree that allowing advocacy for each family only to the first person who manages to apply for it might cause some problems subsequent to disasters like Hillsborough? What will she do...
I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for the time she has spent with me in raising this and other issues. Under our proposed expansion, multiple family members will be able to receive non-means-tested legal help to prepare for an inquest hearing where a public authority is an interested...
I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for the time she has spent with me in raising this and other issues. Under our proposed expansion, multiple family members will be able to receive non-means-tested legal help to prepare for an inquest hearing where a public authority is an interested...
Will my hon. Friend give way?
Will my hon. Friend give way?
I will—my hon. Friend assists me in finding my place in my notes again, so I thank her.
I will—my hon. Friend assists me in finding my place in my notes again, so I thank her.
My hon. Friend is most welcome. I am grateful for all the amendments that the Government have tabled, but I remain concerned that the current civil legal aid rate is £40 an hour. She has referred to security-vetted counsel. Is it likely that security-vetted counsel will be prepared to work...
My hon. Friend is most welcome. I am grateful for all the amendments that the Government have tabled, but I remain concerned that the current civil legal aid rate is £40 an hour. She has referred to security-vetted counsel. Is it likely that security-vetted counsel will be prepared to work...
My hon. Friend has been a passionate advocate in relation to legally aided work, and I know that she will take every opportunity to raise concerns about the rates. The amendments mean that the expansion will operate efficiently from the outset, giving bereaved families the support that they need while...
My hon. Friend has been a passionate advocate in relation to legally aided work, and I know that she will take every opportunity to raise concerns about the rates. The amendments mean that the expansion will operate efficiently from the outset, giving bereaved families the support that they need while...
You are probably aware, Madam Deputy Speaker, of the fact that I have chaired the all-party parliamentary group on Primodos for the last 14 years. The Minister may well be aware that earlier in the Bill’s consideration I asked for reassurance that independent panels established by Ministers would be covered,...
You are probably aware, Madam Deputy Speaker, of the fact that I have chaired the all-party parliamentary group on Primodos for the last 14 years. The Minister may well be aware that earlier in the Bill’s consideration I asked for reassurance that independent panels established by Ministers would be covered,...
The Bill allows a Minister to extend the duty and allows the flexibility to apply it to reviews where it would be most beneficial. I know that my hon. Friend has campaigned long on this point, and I would be happy to talk to her about how that takes place.
In...
The Bill allows a Minister to extend the duty and allows the flexibility to apply it to reviews where it would be most beneficial. I know that my hon. Friend has campaigned long on this point, and I would be happy to talk to her about how that takes place.
In...
I was nine years old at the time of the Hillsborough tragedy, and I remember listening to the news of the terrible events on the radio, sitting behind my parents in the car. I was 32 when, while working in the Home Office, I received a copy of the report...
I was nine years old at the time of the Hillsborough tragedy, and I remember listening to the news of the terrible events on the radio, sitting behind my parents in the car. I was 32 when, while working in the Home Office, I received a copy of the report...
The shadow Secretary of State will know, given his background working in the Home Office, that a duty of candour is not the same as the duty to disclose sensitive information. The two should not be conflated, and he should not be doing so on the Floor of the House.
The shadow Secretary of State will know, given his background working in the Home Office, that a duty of candour is not the same as the duty to disclose sensitive information. The two should not be conflated, and he should not be doing so on the Floor of the House.
I am confused by that intervention from the hon. Lady, who was the Minister in charge of this Bill. The argument I am making is consistent with the position she brought to the House in January, only to back down when it became controversial.
As I was saying, this could lead...
I am confused by that intervention from the hon. Lady, who was the Minister in charge of this Bill. The argument I am making is consistent with the position she brought to the House in January, only to back down when it became controversial.
As I was saying, this could lead...
Could the hon. Member point to current legislation that has a gap and does not give the protection to the intelligence services that we all wish to see?
Could the hon. Member point to current legislation that has a gap and does not give the protection to the intelligence services that we all wish to see?
I am not sure I follow the hon. Member’s question. If he wants to repeat it more clearly, I will happily listen.
I am not sure I follow the hon. Member’s question. If he wants to repeat it more clearly, I will happily listen.
The hon. Member is saying that the intelligence services are not protected under the current legislation. Could he say why?
The hon. Member is saying that the intelligence services are not protected under the current legislation. Could he say why?
The point is that this is a new duty, which is backed by criminal sanction, and that is why it is different from the status quo.
As I was saying, the Justice Secretary is a Privy Counsellor. He is the Deputy Prime Minister. He was once the Foreign Secretary—the man to...
The point is that this is a new duty, which is backed by criminal sanction, and that is why it is different from the status quo.
As I was saying, the Justice Secretary is a Privy Counsellor. He is the Deputy Prime Minister. He was once the Foreign Secretary—the man to...
Does the hon. Gentleman recognise that chairs of inquiries and inquests already have the power to hold closed sessions in private if they are looking at information that is sensitive or potentially poses a risk to our national security? That already exists, and the measures in the Bill do not...
Does the hon. Gentleman recognise that chairs of inquiries and inquests already have the power to hold closed sessions in private if they are looking at information that is sensitive or potentially poses a risk to our national security? That already exists, and the measures in the Bill do not...
What the hon. Lady says is not entirely relevant to this proposition. This is about the provision of information to particular investigations and inquiries, and we do not know—indeed, we cannot know—the identities of the people who lead those investigations and inquiries. That is one of the reasons why this...
What the hon. Lady says is not entirely relevant to this proposition. This is about the provision of information to particular investigations and inquiries, and we do not know—indeed, we cannot know—the identities of the people who lead those investigations and inquiries. That is one of the reasons why this...
I used to be a prosecutor before coming to this place. We were able to find perfectly good ways of dealing with confidential sources of information—informants and others. There are procedures already in place for that.
I used to be a prosecutor before coming to this place. We were able to find perfectly good ways of dealing with confidential sources of information—informants and others. There are procedures already in place for that.
We are sent here to scrutinise legislation. That is what we are doing. We have talked to people in the intelligence agencies, the police and others who are very concerned about this. The concerns that I am expressing were shared by Ministers themselves, which is why the amendment we are...
We are sent here to scrutinise legislation. That is what we are doing. We have talked to people in the intelligence agencies, the police and others who are very concerned about this. The concerns that I am expressing were shared by Ministers themselves, which is why the amendment we are...
The interventions and the shadow Secretary of State’s responses are indicative of what he said earlier: we should not be discussing something as technically complex as this, which could have wide-reaching ramifications, with 24 hours’ notice and without any opportunity to have a proper discussion and raise these points.
The interventions and the shadow Secretary of State’s responses are indicative of what he said earlier: we should not be discussing something as technically complex as this, which could have wide-reaching ramifications, with 24 hours’ notice and without any opportunity to have a proper discussion and raise these points.
My hon. Friend is exactly right. The Prime Minister said this was going to be one of his first acts as Prime Minister; it turns out it is going to be his final act as Prime Minister. He is only doing it by the skin of his teeth, because he...
My hon. Friend is exactly right. The Prime Minister said this was going to be one of his first acts as Prime Minister; it turns out it is going to be his final act as Prime Minister. He is only doing it by the skin of his teeth, because he...
The people who lead these inquiries are leading public figures and have usually held significant judicial office. Is the hon. Member honestly suggesting that they are going to be successfully pressured by people who want to destroy the British state?
The people who lead these inquiries are leading public figures and have usually held significant judicial office. Is the hon. Member honestly suggesting that they are going to be successfully pressured by people who want to destroy the British state?
I am tempted to say that the hon. Lady should have a conversation with the Attorney General, who used to prosecute British soldiers and was still appointed to one of the highest offices in the land.
Irish republicans, Islamist extremists, useful idiots deployed by Putin’s Russia—they will all see the opportunity...
I am tempted to say that the hon. Lady should have a conversation with the Attorney General, who used to prosecute British soldiers and was still appointed to one of the highest offices in the land.
Irish republicans, Islamist extremists, useful idiots deployed by Putin’s Russia—they will all see the opportunity...
One of the hon. Gentleman’s former colleagues went to Downing Street just a month ago with a letter that says he believes he was misled by his own Department when he was the Secretary of State for Defence, so why on earth is the hon. Gentleman arguing this particular case?...
One of the hon. Gentleman’s former colleagues went to Downing Street just a month ago with a letter that says he believes he was misled by his own Department when he was the Secretary of State for Defence, so why on earth is the hon. Gentleman arguing this particular case?...
I think the hon. Lady, whether it is by design or by mistake, misunderstands my point. Of course, there should be accountability and transparency, and there are many ways in which we can do that, but there are ways of doing it that do not jeopardise the operations of the...
I think the hon. Lady, whether it is by design or by mistake, misunderstands my point. Of course, there should be accountability and transparency, and there are many ways in which we can do that, but there are ways of doing it that do not jeopardise the operations of the...
I rise to support new clauses 5 and 6, tabled by my hon. Friend the Member for Hammersmith and Chiswick (Andy Slaughter). I welcome the Prime Minister’s remarks, and I am relieved that the Government have listened, so that the duty of candour will apply in full to members of...
I rise to support new clauses 5 and 6, tabled by my hon. Friend the Member for Hammersmith and Chiswick (Andy Slaughter). I welcome the Prime Minister’s remarks, and I am relieved that the Government have listened, so that the duty of candour will apply in full to members of...
I wish to speak to the amendments and new clauses tabled in my name on behalf of my party. Up and down the country, those who have been failed by state institutions, unheard and ignored for years, will today be relieved that this hurdle has been cleared and the Hillsborough...
I wish to speak to the amendments and new clauses tabled in my name on behalf of my party. Up and down the country, those who have been failed by state institutions, unheard and ignored for years, will today be relieved that this hurdle has been cleared and the Hillsborough...
My constituent Gary is one of the victims of the infected blood scandal. He was a pupil at Treloar’s College, and 120 boys from Treloar’s were given contaminated blood. Will my hon. Friend join me in paying tribute to those boys who have fought so hard for justice, and does...
My constituent Gary is one of the victims of the infected blood scandal. He was a pupil at Treloar’s College, and 120 boys from Treloar’s were given contaminated blood. Will my hon. Friend join me in paying tribute to those boys who have fought so hard for justice, and does...
My hon. Friend has been a tireless campaigner on behalf of her constituents and the victims of the contaminated blood scandal, and she is right to highlight how long it has taken to get here. I commend the Government for ensuring that we eventually got to this point.
These scandals have...
My hon. Friend has been a tireless campaigner on behalf of her constituents and the victims of the contaminated blood scandal, and she is right to highlight how long it has taken to get here. I commend the Government for ensuring that we eventually got to this point.
These scandals have...
I support the Bill and the amendments put forward by the Government. Back in May 1998, when I first spoke in a debate about the Hillsborough disaster, I could never have imagined that 28 years later I would be debating new legislation to address the state’s failings in respect of...
I support the Bill and the amendments put forward by the Government. Back in May 1998, when I first spoke in a debate about the Hillsborough disaster, I could never have imagined that 28 years later I would be debating new legislation to address the state’s failings in respect of...
It is a privilege to follow the hon. Member for Widnes and Halewood (Derek Twigg), my colleague on the Intelligence and Security Committee. I agree with everything that he has said.
It is important to begin by recognising the remarkable determination of everyone who has sought to translate immense personal pain...
It is a privilege to follow the hon. Member for Widnes and Halewood (Derek Twigg), my colleague on the Intelligence and Security Committee. I agree with everything that he has said.
It is important to begin by recognising the remarkable determination of everyone who has sought to translate immense personal pain...
I welcome the Bill, and thank the Government for introducing it and bringing it back to the House before the summer recess. It is the result of years of committed campaigning, led by the families of the victims and survivors of Hillsborough. Many of the worst corporate miscarriages of justice,...
I welcome the Bill, and thank the Government for introducing it and bringing it back to the House before the summer recess. It is the result of years of committed campaigning, led by the families of the victims and survivors of Hillsborough. Many of the worst corporate miscarriages of justice,...
Can the hon. Member spot the irony in the fact that today, while the Government are considering this legislation, which is designed to prevent public bodies from obstructing the truth, the Ministry of Defence is in the High Court in London, trying very hard to silence the Chinook families by...
Can the hon. Member spot the irony in the fact that today, while the Government are considering this legislation, which is designed to prevent public bodies from obstructing the truth, the Ministry of Defence is in the High Court in London, trying very hard to silence the Chinook families by...
I know that case means a huge amount to the hon. Lady as a constituency MP, and I thank her for all the work she does on the Justice Committee. I think we have only begun to scratch the surface. This Bill will be a transforming piece of legislation.
I will...
I know that case means a huge amount to the hon. Lady as a constituency MP, and I thank her for all the work she does on the Justice Committee. I think we have only begun to scratch the surface. This Bill will be a transforming piece of legislation.
I will...
My sense is that we could have some equity in the amount of legal aid given to families and individuals fighting big organisations, such as public bodies. If the rates of the specialists and professionals who are supporting the public bodies came down, and matched the rising rate of legal...
My sense is that we could have some equity in the amount of legal aid given to families and individuals fighting big organisations, such as public bodies. If the rates of the specialists and professionals who are supporting the public bodies came down, and matched the rising rate of legal...
I think I have taken enough time, but I thank the Member for that intervention. This afternoon, the Justice Committee signed off a new major report on legal aid, which will be published on Friday. Those who are interested can read more there. In conclusion, this is a landmark piece...
I think I have taken enough time, but I thank the Member for that intervention. This afternoon, the Justice Committee signed off a new major report on legal aid, which will be published on Friday. Those who are interested can read more there. In conclusion, this is a landmark piece...
I will speak to two amendments, but first, I pay tribute to the Hillsborough families, and to two people in particular, with whom I have dealt personally. The first is Margaret Aspinall. As a new Culture Secretary in 2010, I made some ill-chosen comments about the Hillsborough tragedy, and I...
I will speak to two amendments, but first, I pay tribute to the Hillsborough families, and to two people in particular, with whom I have dealt personally. The first is Margaret Aspinall. As a new Culture Secretary in 2010, I made some ill-chosen comments about the Hillsborough tragedy, and I...