theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Cat Eccles:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of the proposed reforms in the Pathways to Work Green Paper on the number of appeals that will be made by people who will lose their eligibility for the personal independence payment; and whether she plans to allocate additional funding for the administration of such appeals. \p Sir Stephen Timms: DWP will work with the Ministry of Justice as normal and plan for any impacts.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Bell Ribeiro-Addy:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how Serco performed against key performance indicators at the most recent performance review of their Restart Scheme contract. \p Andrew Western: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to her previous Question UIN 50919.

Cabinet Office Statistics publish some of the Serco Key Performance Indicators on a regular basis. The latest publication is available here.

Ongoing performance reviews have identified a need for performance improvement in the two Contract Package Areas (CPA) CPA1a and CPA6 that Serco delivers in. Therefore, the department has implemented intensified support and heightened monitoring as part of our established performance management intervention regime.

This activity incorporates more frequent and more senior scrutiny and includes requiring Serco to implement comprehensive action plans to address concerns, with the intensity of support and challenge increasing at higher intervention levels.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Patricia Ferguson:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what discussions she has had with the Pensions Ombudsman on the adequacy of the time taken for complaints to be resolved. \p Torsten Bell: I recently met with the Pensions Ombudsman and Chief Operating Officer to discuss performance of the organisation and significant increases in requests for The Pensions Ombudsman (TPO) services. The time taken by TPO to resolve cases is dependent on several factors often external to TPO. For example, the complexity of the complaint, Ombudsman jurisdiction, and response times taken by the industry and the complainant to reply to information gathering requests from TPO.

In response to these pressures, TPO have implemented an Operating Model Review (OMR) programme. DWP are working closely with TPO to rigorously monitor the impact the OMR is having on the complaint management and resolution of cases.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Neil Duncan-Jordan:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to her review of PIP assessment, if she will publish a call for evidence from (a) honourable Members, (b) civil society organisations and (c) the public. \p Sir Stephen Timms: Through the review, which I will be leading, we want to make sure that the PIP assessment is fair and fit for the future. This includes considering the PIP assessment criteria – including descriptors - and how the PIP assessment can play a role in unlocking wider support to enable better health, good work, higher living standards and greater independence.

I am working closely with disabled people, the organisations that represent them and others, to ensure that the voices of those who go through the PIP assessment, those who support them, and those with expertise in the system are embedded in the review.

The scope and timing of the review is being developed in close collaboration with stakeholders. I have now begun the first phase of this work, inviting stakeholders with a range of experience and expertise to roundtables to consider the scope and timing. I will then publish the Terms of Reference for the review in due course.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Anna Gelderd:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that (a) carers and (b) family members of people with Multiple Sclerosis are (i) supported and (ii) recognised in the context of proposed changes to disability-related benefits. \p Sir Stephen Timms: I recognise the vital role played by carers and family members in supporting individuals with MS. Through the Green Paper we are consulting on the support needed for those who may lose any entitlements because of proposed changes to PIP daily living and what this support could look like. We will also work closely with the DHSC and others on how the health and eligible care needs of those who would lose entitlement to PIP could be met outside the benefits system.

In the Green Paper, we committed to a review of the PIP assessment which I will be leading. Through the review, we want to make sure that the PIP assessment is fit for the future. This includes considering the PIP assessment criteria – including descriptors - and how the PIP assessment can play a role in unlocking wider support to enable better health, good work, higher living standards and greater independence.

We outlined our commitment to improving the PIP assessment in the Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper. We will take action to get the basics right and improve the experience for people who use the system of health and disability benefits. This includes recording health assessments as standard to build greater trust in the system. The aim is to create greater transparency, using recordings as a learning opportunity to consider potential improvements to the quality of the assessment process.

I will work closely with disabled people, the organisations that represent them and others, to ensure that the voices of those who go through the PIP assessment, those who support them, and those with expertise in the system are embedded in the review.

The scope and timing of the review will be developed in close collaboration with stakeholders. I have now begun the first phase of this work, inviting stakeholders with a range of experience and expertise to roundtables to consider the scope and timing. I will then publish the Terms of Reference for the review in due course.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Lee Pitcher:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps he is taking to promote water reuse. \p Emma Hardy: The Government recognises that recycled water e.g. from rainwater or domestic greywater showers play a key role in helping non-household users and businesses meet the statutory water demand reduction target of 20% by March 2038. We encourage water companies and developers to move from potable water to recycled sources where possible.

To enable reuse in households, we are working to support the water sector to supply treated, non-potable water, including rainwater, for certain water demands such as toilet flushing. To support this, Ofwat consulted on environmental incentives for developers which considered where recycled water could be integrated into buildings and developments, and acknowledged the importance of recycled water to reducing pressure on the water system
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Mr Toby Perkins:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging on SME beverage producers. \p Mary Creagh: In October 2024 the Government published a final impact assessment on the pEPR scheme. The impact assessment did not look at the specific impacts of the pEPR scheme on individual sectors.

The Government recognises the importance of protecting small producers from direct cost obligations. This is why the regulations include a de-minimis threshold of £2 million turnover and 50 tonnes which exempts approximately 70% of the producers supplying packaging in the UK from paying scheme fees.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Daisy Cooper:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether he has had discussions with his EU counterparts on an agreement on (a) sanitary and phytosanitary measures (b) plant health. \p Daniel Zeichner: We have now agreed the parameters which will establish a UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement to make agrifood trade with our biggest market cheaper and easier, cutting costs and red tape for British producers and retailers.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Gregory Stafford:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether his Department has identified geographic regions where the closure of small abattoirs has resulted in livestock producers not having adequate access to slaughter facilities. \p Daniel Zeichner: Defra recognises the vital role small and medium sized abattoirs play in supporting local livestock producers and maintaining a resilient, competitive food supply chain.

Defra works closely with the industry through the Small Abattoirs Working Group and the Small Abattoirs Task and Finish Group. These groups provide a forum for identifying the challenges and opportunities that the sector faces, including challenges specific to geographical areas in England, and collaborates on practical solutions to support the sustainability of small and medium sized abattoirs.

It is recognised that there are many different and varied reasons why abattoirs close, and that closures can impact the access livestock producers have to local slaughter facilities. While the Government does not intervene in individual business decisions, it is committed to working with the sector to help, where possible, mitigate pressures that abattoirs face.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Gregory Stafford:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of implementing a five per cent rule to exempt low-throughput abattoirs from full-time veterinary oversight requirements. \p Daniel Zeichner: Defra remains committed to identifying potential opportunities to ease regulatory and/or administrative burdens that apply to smaller abattoirs. This includes the livestock unit regulatory flexibility (5% rule).

Working closely with the Devolved Governments and the appointed Competent Authorities, Defra is committed to engaging with industry stakeholders to gather views and insights on the potential implementation of these potential flexibilities and to ensure we fully understand and address any concerns they may have.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Tim Farron:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps he is taking to ensure food security in relation to the ongoing negotiations for the US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal. \p Daniel Zeichner: On 8 May, the UK Government announced a landmark economic deal with the United States, making the UK the first country to reach an agreement with President Trump. This delivers on the commitment by the Prime Minister and the President on 27 February to agree an economic deal in our respective national interests.

We have always been clear that this Government will protect British farmers, secure our food security, and uphold our high food, animal welfare, and environmental standards in trade deals. That is exactly what we have done and will continue to do.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Ben Maguire:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of bringing forward legislation to force water companies to become public benefit corporations. \p Emma Hardy: The Independent Water Commission, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe, will recommend reforms to reset the water sector regulatory system and is expected to form the largest review of the industry since privatisation. It is considering a wide range of areas, including different water company ownership models, as set out in the Commission’s Call for Evidence. The Commission is expected to publish its recommendations later in the summer.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Sir Alec Shelbrooke:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will include goat farmers in the eligibility criteria for the Animal Health and Welfare grant in the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund 2025. \p Daniel Zeichner: Guidance for grants under the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund 2025 was published on 7 May ahead of opening to applications on 29 May. These grants are available to keepers of pigs, dairy cows, beef cattle, laying chickens, broilers and sheep.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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David Chadwick:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will bring forward legislative proposals to reflect the findings of the Water Commission. \p Emma Hardy: The Independent Water Commission, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe, will recommend reforms to reset the water sector regulatory system and is expected to form the largest review of the industry since privatisation. It is considering a wide range of areas, as set out in the Commission’s Call for Evidence.

The Commission will report later in summer 2025 with recommendations to the UK and Welsh Governments to help restore our rivers, lakes and seas to good health, meet the challenges of the future and contribute to economic growth.

These recommendations are expected to form the basis of further legislation to attract long-term investment and clean up our waters for good.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Sammy Wilson:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of introducing a ban on male chick culling on the egg producing industry. \p Daniel Zeichner: We are firmly committed to maintaining and improving animal welfare and want to work closely with the farming sector to deliver high standards.

In its 2024 ‘Opinion on alternatives to culling newly hatched chicks in the egg and poultry industries’, the Animal Welfare Committee considered a range of technologies that could help end the routine culling of male chicks by identifying or determining the sex of chick embryos before hatching. In recent years there has been rapid global progress in the development of these technologies, and we welcome the UK egg industry’s interest in the development of day zero sexing technology.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether his strategy to improve the supply of sheep vaccines will be aligned with broader (a) animal health, (b) animal welfare and (c) land use policy objectives. \p Daniel Zeichner: Defra is aware of the concerns regarding the availability and continuity of supply of vaccines for sheep and other animal species. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate, an agency of Defra, has held several meetings convening stakeholders from across government, the pharmaceutical industry and wider animal health sector to discuss the barriers and potential solutions to improving vaccine availability and innovation. These discussions highlighted the complex multifactorial nature of the problem and the need to champion a collaborative, cross-sector approach moving forwards. The intention is to publish a statement of intent outlining a strategic framework for such an approach in the near future.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Sammy Wilson:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether he plans to introduce a ban on male chick culling. \p Daniel Zeichner: The legislation sets out strict requirements to protect the welfare of animals at the time of killing, including male chicks from the egg production sector.

Permitted killing methods for chicks, such as gas stunning and maceration, are based on scientific research and assessment to ensure birds are spared any avoidable pain, distress, or suffering. All laying hen hatcheries in the UK use argon gas mixtures as their stunning method.

We are firmly committed to maintaining and improving animal welfare and want to work closely with the farming sector to deliver high standards. In recent years there has been rapid global progress in the development of technologies that allow chicks to be sexed in-ovo (within the egg). We welcome the UK egg industry’s interest in the development of day zero sexing technology.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Daisy Cooper:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, with reference to his Department's press release entitled Leading food experts join Government food strategy to restore pride in British food, published on 21 March 2025, what steps he plans to take to encourage the economic growth potential of the food and drink manufacturing sector in the forthcoming Food Strategy. \p Daniel Zeichner: The Food and drink industry is the UK's largest manufacturing sector, with the potential for even greater productivity and growth.  We need a food strategy that is co-designed with the sector to give direction, stability, and clarity on innovation and investment – so that the sector can realise its potential for economic growth. This is why we are working in partnership with the sector, via the Food Strategy Advisory Board and undertaking a first phase of engagements including stakeholders from across food and drink manufacturing sector.  The food strategy will also underpin growth by tackling the drivers of poor health and getting people back into work. We have a critical window of opportunity over the next five years to lay the foundations for changes that will enhance growth and improve productivity in the food sector, and deliver a healthier, more secure, more sustainable food system.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Helen Morgan:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential implications for its policies of foot and mouth disease outbreaks in Hungary, Slovakia and Germany in 2025. \p Daniel Zeichner: Defra has closely monitored the 2025 foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in Hungary, Slovakia, and Germany. Following Germany’s confirmed FMD case in January, its FMD-free status was temporarily suspended but reinstated by the World Organisation for Animal Health in April after swift containment.

Hungary and Slovakia reported FMD outbreaks in March 2025, prompting immediate action. Defra assessed the risk of FMD entering Great Britain from these countries as medium, citing potential spread via wild animals and human activity.

As a result, the UK imposed temporary import bans on live animals and certain products from affected regions. Defra also reinforced biosecurity messaging to livestock keepers and increased disease surveillance.

To strengthen long-term resilience, the UK is investing £200 million into its animal health infrastructure, including Weybridge’s national reference laboratory. Defra continues to adapt its policies in response to developments and remains committed to protecting the UK’s biosecurity and livestock sector.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent steps he has taken to improve farmed animal welfare. \p Daniel Zeichner: This Government was elected on a mandate to introduce the most ambitious plans to improve animal welfare in a generation. The Department is engaging with key stakeholders as part of the development of our overarching approach to animal welfare. We will be outlining more details on this in due course.

This will build on the support already available through the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, which includes access to testing for priority diseases and advice to continually improve the health, welfare and productivity of farmed animals through funded vet visits.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

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Sarah Gibson:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of potential impact of surface water flooding on communities in Wiltshire; and what funding he has provided to help mitigate flooding risks in Wiltshire since 2015. \p Emma Hardy: Lead local flood authorities are required to manage local flood risks from surface water, groundwater and ordinary watercourses. Local flood risks should be identified and managed as part of a local flood risk management strategy. The two lead local flood authorities in Wiltshire are Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council.

In the area covered by Wiltshire Council, £38,597,000 of Capital Flood Defence Grant in Aid funding was invested between 2015/16 and 2024/25 by the Environment Agency and other Risk Management Authorities on flood related projects. The most significant of these was the Environment Agency led Salisbury River Park Scheme which spent £35,070,000 to better protect 1,062 properties. These totals exclude maintenance spending, property-level protection schemes, and some projects which cross county borders.

In the area covered by Swindon Borough Council, £2,615,993 was invested between 2015/16 and 2024/25 by the Environment Agency and other Risk Management Authorities on flood related projects.
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Callum Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, how many live Sustainable Farming Incentive agreements were in place in Buckinghamshire as of 11 March 2025. \p Daniel Zeichner: As of 11 March 2025, there are 323 farmers who have accepted a Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) agreement (SFI Pilot, SFI 23 and SFI EO) in Buckinghamshire.
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Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to help support the Falkland Islands government to preserve its (a) marine biodiversity, (b) sustainable fishing practices and (c) other aspects of its ecological environment. \p Emma Hardy: Defra officials work closely with the Falkland Islands Government to ensure that Falkland Island interests are represented in international fisheries meetings at the UN and FAO, and that challenges in ensuring sustainable management of high seas fisheries in the South West Atlantic are addressed.

Defra primarily supports the UK Overseas Territories, including the Falkland Islands, to protect their unique biodiversity and natural environments through the Darwin Plus programme. In the past 5 years, Darwin Plus has awarded funding to 28 projects of benefit to the Falkland Islands worth over £4 million, including 8 worth over £2 million dedicated to marine conservation.

Projects have been working to:
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James Wild:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, with reference to section 2.1 of HM Treasury’s policy paper entitled New approach to ensure regulators and regulation support growth, updated on 31 March 2025, which new initiatives have been launched to support priority sectors. \p Emma Hardy: Defra, jointly with Welsh Government are currently consulting on proposals to streamline the process for setting and amending exemptions within the environmental permitting framework, empowering regulators to operate in an agile and outcome-driven fashion in support of both economic growth and environmental protections.

The regulations the Environment Agency (EA) implements spans aspects of sectors, such as advance manufacturing and clean energy, in the priority list. In April the EA launched a pilot priority tracked service for significant infrastructure and major housebuilding projects, ahead of launching a full service later in the year, to allow developers to work with a dedicated team on their permits and track progress. On 31st March, the EA launched a “standard rules” approach to support research and development activities at industrial installations, this will make it easier to trial and scale-up new technologies and processes to boost investment and productivity.
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Sir Alec Shelbrooke:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if the reformed Sustainable Farming Initiative offer will limit the proportion of land holding eligible for submission. \p Daniel Zeichner: The future Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) offer will build on what has made SFI effective so far. Defra is working closely with farmers and industry stakeholders to design a future SFI offer that fairly and responsibly directs funding. Further details about the reformed SFI offer will be announced following the spending review in summer 2025.
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Joe Robertson:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether he plans to increase the number of highly protected marine areas in English waters. \p Emma Hardy: Defra is undertaking a review of the English Marine Protected Area network to look at whether sites are in the right places with the right protection. The review will explore ways to update protection and management approaches to better address the nature crisis and improve climate change resilience, while supporting wider Government priorities. Highly Protected Marine Areas are part of the scope of this review and whilst we currently have no plans for designating additional HPMAs we will assess what we have learned so far from the first 3 sites designated in 2023.
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Euan Stainbank:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to end animal testing; and what recent assessment he has made of the adequacy of progress towards the (a) development and (b) adoption of non-animal testing methods. \p Daniel Zeichner: The Government is committed to supporting the uptake and development of alternative methods to the use of animals in science. The Labour Manifesto includes a commitment to partner with scientists, industry, and civil society as we work towards the phasing out of animal testing, which is a long-term goal.

Progress has been made towards the development and adoption of non-animal test methods within the OECD’s Environmental Health and Safety Programme. The UK leads on and supports numerous projects producing internationally harmonised tools and guidance for ‘New Approach Methodologies’ based regulatory chemical assessment across a number of working groups. This includes the Test Guidelines Programme, where the UK recently contributed to the development of the first internationally harmonised guideline to describe a non-animal defined approach that can be used to replace completely replace animal tests to identify skin sensitizsers and predict potency.

In line with the Government’s Manifesto commitment, Defra, along with partners from sectors with interests in animal science and on a cross-Government level are currently engaging with DSIT to develop a strategy to support the development, validation and uptake of alternative methods to animal testing. We expect the publication of this strategy later this year.
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Joe Robertson:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps he is taking to ban bottom trawling within more English Marine Protected Areas. \p Emma Hardy: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Surrey Heath on 13 November 2024, PQ 13315.
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Daisy Cooper:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether his Department plans to hold a consultation on the forthcoming food strategy. \p Daniel Zeichner: Developing a food strategy is not a job for the Government alone. We are forming a coalition with the food sector, academics and charities, citizens, and key thinkers to pool our collective ideas, influence, and effort. This includes our Food Strategy Advisory Board, four multi-stakeholder workshops in May, and ongoing sectoral and thematic conversations over the summer.

We will consider whether formal consultation is appropriate at relevant points in the process.
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Caroline Voaden:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, which companies were granted additional quota through the quota application mechanism in 2025; and what (a) environmental, (b) social and (c) economic outcomes are expected from each. \p Daniel Zeichner: In 2025, a total of 8,658.8 tonnes of additional quota was awarded to fish producer organisations as part of the quota application mechanism trial (QAM). Applications were based on an environmental, social, and economic scoring criteria. Eastern England Fish Producers Organisation was awarded 3144.3 tonnes, and Humberside Fish Producers’ Organisation was awarded 5225 tonnes. The remaining tonnage was allocated to non-sectoral fishers, across 16 non-sectoral vessels.

Some of the environmental, social and economic benefits being rewarded include:

Across all the successful applicants, 217 commitments were made. Defra will publish an update on the Quota Application Mechanism trial later this year.
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Daisy Cooper:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of implementing the Environmental Horticulture Group's recommendations from its report entitled Mission Green Growth: A Strategic Plan from the Environmental Horticulture Group, published in autumn 2024. \p Daniel Zeichner: The Government appreciates and values the vital work of our agricultural sectors including the part played by environmental horticulture growers.

The Department regularly meets the Environmental Horticulture Group, as well as a wide range of stakeholders and businesses to discuss specific issues facing the sector. These discussions help inform future policy development and help us understand what support the sector needs to help it thrive.

In addition, we work across Government to ensure other Government departments are aware of the excellent report.
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Tim Farron:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what the total area of land was in (a) entry-level agreements, (b) mid-tier countryside stewardship agreements, (c) higher tier countryside stewardship agreements and (d) higher-level stewardship schemes in each year since 2022. \p Daniel Zeichner: Total area of land covered by Countryside Stewardship and Environmental Stewardship agreements:

For Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (hectares), the figures were:

2022 - 453,789

2023 - 513,288

2024 - 603,626

2025 - 574,676

For Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier (hectares) the figures were:

2022 - 459,334

2023 - 567,482

2024 - 660,535

2025 - 594,952

For Higher Level Stewardship (hectares), the figures were:

2022 - 70,729

2023 - 63,163

2024 - 53,832

2025 - 51,792

For Entry Level plus Higher Level Stewardship (hectares), the figures were:

2022 - 975,307

2023 - 851,967

2024 - 683,271

2025 - 633,248

For Organic Entry Level plus Higher Level Stewardship (hectares), the figures were:

2022 – 63,240

2023 – 44,548

2024 – 22,874

2025 - 19,736

Please note the following points:
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_71

Anna Gelderd:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps he is taking to ensure that the deployment of offshore energy does not adversely impact (a) the fishing industry and (b) marine (i) habitats and (ii) ecosystems. \p Emma Hardy: Further to the written statement I made on 29th January 2025, this Government has committed to deliver an Offshore Wind Environmental Improvement Package, which supports the Clean Power 2030 Mission. This will support the accelerated deployment of offshore wind developments while protecting our marine habitats and ecosystems. This includes establishing a Marine Recovery Fund to deliver strategic environmental compensation for unavoidable impacts to Marine Protected Areas.

More broadly the Department is leading the cross Government marine spatial prioritisation programme. This is looking at how to take a more strategic approach to managing the increased demands on the marine space, including from future offshore wind, alongside nature’s recovery in English waters. This Government will ensure that the fishing industry is supported to adapt to the increased spatial pressures.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_72
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_72

Anna Gelderd:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the increase in biomass of Octopus vulgaris on (a) lobster and (b) crab stocks in Cornwall. \p Daniel Zeichner: I recently visited the fishing industry in Plymouth and was made aware of reports of an unusual abundance of octopus in the Southwest including Cornwall.

Defra understands this ‘octopus bloom’ is impacting shellfish potting fisheries and causing concern to the fishing industry in the Southwest.

Government scientists, the Marine Management Organisation and local Inshore Fisheries Conservation Authorities have met with Defra on the 20th of May to discuss this phenomenon, the evidence, the impacts on the crab and lobster stocks as well as possible actions.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_73
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_73

Sir Alec Shelbrooke:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to support (a) restocking and (b) business continuity for poultry farmers in North Yorkshire impacted by bird flu restrictions. \p Daniel Zeichner: Local authorities are responsible for the enforcement of avian influenza controls including Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures. The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) works in conjunction with the Association of Chief Trading Standards Officers (ACTSO) which includes representatives from North Yorkshire Council and the Local Authority Animal Health and Welfare National Panel to disseminate information and guidance as required. Communication material is also shared with local authorities that provides up to date information and is available for use in the local community to raise awareness.

North Yorkshire has seen 10 cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza confirmed in poultry during this outbreak season (2 in the Wetherby and Easingwold constituency and 8 in the Thirsk and Malton constituency) and we recognise bird keepers and local authorities are on the front line of this terrible disease. We extend our thanks to North Yorkshire Council and other local authorities for the work they do to support bird keepers and improve compliance with mandatory requirements.

Defra’s avian influenza disease control measures aim to minimise the economic burden of the outbreak on the food and farming sectors, bird keepers and the wider economy. Defra works closely with both the poultry industry and wider bird keeping stakeholders and the impacts of the avian influenza outbreak are being monitored closely.

When avian influenza is confirmed at a premises, in order to limit the risk of the disease spreading, all birds on the premises are humanely culled. Keepers will be paid compensation for clinically healthy birds culled by HM Government for disease control purposes as set out in the Animal Health Act 1981. Compensation is not paid for consequential losses, including business interruption caused by control measures, nor for eggs or poultry meat.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_74
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_74

Sarah Champion:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will take legislative steps to restrict bottom trawling of sandeel fish in the North Sea. \p Daniel Zeichner: Fishing for sandeel in UK waters of the North Sea and all Scottish waters has been prohibited since March 2024. Fisheries management is largely devolved. In England, the prohibition of fishing for sandeel in the North Sea is implemented through fishing vessel license restrictions. There are currently no plans for to enforce this prohibition in England through legislation.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_75
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_75

Sir Alec Shelbrooke:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions he has had with North Yorkshire Council on (a) coordination of local containment zones and (b) compensation access for affected poultry businesses. \p Daniel Zeichner: Local authorities are responsible for the enforcement of avian influenza controls including Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures. The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) works in conjunction with the Association of Chief Trading Standards Officers (ACTSO) which includes representatives from North Yorkshire Council and the Local Authority Animal Health and Welfare National Panel to disseminate information and guidance as required. Communication material is also shared with local authorities that provides up to date information and is available for use in the local community to raise awareness.

North Yorkshire has seen 10 cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza confirmed in poultry during this outbreak season (2 in the Wetherby and Easingwold constituency and 8 in the Thirsk and Malton constituency) and we recognise bird keepers and local authorities are on the front line of this terrible disease. We extend our thanks to North Yorkshire Council and other local authorities for the work they do to support bird keepers and improve compliance with mandatory requirements.

Defra’s avian influenza disease control measures aim to minimise the economic burden of the outbreak on the food and farming sectors, bird keepers and the wider economy. Defra works closely with both the poultry industry and wider bird keeping stakeholders and the impacts of the avian influenza outbreak are being monitored closely.

When avian influenza is confirmed at a premises, in order to limit the risk of the disease spreading, all birds on the premises are humanely culled. Keepers will be paid compensation for clinically healthy birds culled by HM Government for disease control purposes as set out in the Animal Health Act 1981. Compensation is not paid for consequential losses, including business interruption caused by control measures, nor for eggs or poultry meat.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_76
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_76

Helen Maguire:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of untreated sewage overflows on levels of (a) microplastic, (b) nano plastic and (c) macro plastic pollution in rivers. \p Emma Hardy: Tackling marine litter and plastic pollution is a priority for the UK Government, which is why we are working domestically and internationally to implement measures that will prevent plastic and other litter from reaching rivers and ocean in the first place.

As part of Price Review 2024 (PR24), which runs from 2025–2030, water companies will be delivering record levels through the £22.1 billion Water Industry National Environment Programme. This includes over £11 billion to improve nearly 3000 storm overflows across England and Wales. This will help to reduce discharges of raw sewage which can contain organic pollutants, microplastics, pharmaceuticals, nutrients, and heavy metals, as well as visible litter that is flushed down toilets.

We are also taking forward investigations through the Chemical Investigations Programme, to understand how we can reduce the levels of microplastics entering the water environment through wastewater. Microplastics have been recognised as a significant standalone issue and the water industry are funding six further investigations between 2025 and 2030.

The technology for accurately measuring such small, nanometre-sized particles in complex samples such as river water is scientifically challenging. My officials are maintaining a close watch on emerging scientific evidence reporting the presence of nano plastics and the possible risks which they may pose in the water environment.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_77
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_77

Daisy Cooper:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if his Department will make an assessment of the potential merits of introducing an easement-extension of the deadline for UK Plant Passports to be affixed to retail-ready plants in the EU. \p Daniel Zeichner: Following a review in April 2025, the Plant Health Services in Great Britain have agreed to extend an easement that allows draft UK Plant Passports to be attached in EU Member States for plants for planting intended for final users from 30th June 2025 to 31st January 2027.

More information on the UK Plant Passports scheme is available on the Plant Health Portal here as well as on GOV.UK here.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_78
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_78

Sir Alec Shelbrooke:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will provide targeted funding for poultry farmers in North Yorkshire to improve on-farm biosecurity infrastructure in the context of avian influenza. \p Daniel Zeichner: In September 2024 laying hen and pullet keepers could apply for funding to undertake large infrastructure projects to deliver excellent levels of health and welfare through the Laying Hen Housing for Health and Welfare Grant, this included funding for features such as fixed bio-secure housing and mechanical ventilation. The grant also funds constructing verandas, which can provide access to fresh air and natural light when an A.I. housing order is in force.

On 29 May keepers of layer hens and broilers will be able to apply for grants of between £1,000 and £25,000 through the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund, toward the cost of a list of items that address a range of health and welfare issues including biosecurity risks.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_79
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_79

James Wild:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, with reference to section 2.1 of HM Treasury's policy paper entitled New approach to ensure regulators and regulation support growth, updated on 31 March 2025, how much the Environment Agency's priority tracked service cost. \p Emma Hardy: The Environment Agency launched the priority tracked service on 1 April 2025. The priority tracked service is an optional service paid for by service users. The service will fully recover its costs and scale up to reflect uptake. Currently, charges are £100 per hour.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_80
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_80

Sir Alec Shelbrooke:To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the economic impact of avian influenza on poultry producers in North Yorkshire since 2022. \p Daniel Zeichner: This Government is committed to working closely with industry to anticipate the potential social and economic risk from avian influenza, so that response strategies are as effective as possible. The joint Government and industry avian influenza taskforce has committed to publishing a full report on vaccination strategies in the UK this summer; this will include economic assessments from previous outbreaks, including the 2022 outbreak. The cross-government and industry avian influenza vaccination taskforce published an interim statement on 7 March 2025.