theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Houchen of High Leven:To ask His Majesty's Government how many accidental prisoner releases in that past 12 months were due to (1) human error, (2) incorrect or incomplete paperwork from the courts, (3) communication failures between courts and prisons, and (4) other administrative or operational causes; and what steps they are taking to address those issues. \p Lord Timpson: Release inaccuracy is yet another symptom of the prison system crisis inherited by this Government. While the overwhelming majority of offenders are released correctly, we are bearing down on those errors that do occur, and this includes releases in error from prisons.

On 11 November, the Deputy Prime Minister announced a five-point action plan setting out initial steps, which includes strengthening release checks across prisons and an independent inquiry, which will report its recommendations to prevent further inaccuracies.

The latest data on releases in error from prisons, which we published exceptionally on 11 November, showed that there have been 91 releases in error from prisons from April 2025 to October 2025. Data on releases is based on the information available at the time. It may be the case in some circumstances that information on a case is brought to light that either confirms or disproves a release in error. Future release in error data will be published in the normal way through our regular statistics and Dame Lynne Owens will be looking at data and transparency as part of her independent investigation.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Houchen of High Leven:To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have identified any legacy pressures arising from the centralised prisoner allocation system in regions with higher concentrations of prisoner places; and what steps they are taking to ensure that those pressures do not hinder local investment in crime prevention and rehabilitation programmes. \p Lord Timpson: With the prison system routinely operating at 98% occupancy, central management of population movements is the only practical mechanism to ensure every legally committed prisoner is accommodated appropriately. This includes transferring prisoners from regions with deficits of prison places to regions with relative surpluses.

To put prison capacity on a sustainable footing, the Government launched an Independent Review of Sentencing on 22 October 2024, chaired by former Lord Chancellor, David Gauke. The review was published on 22 May this year and we are accepting, in principle, the following recommendations which will support effective crime prevention and rehabilitation:

Release will be earned – and the most dangerous offenders excluded.

Ramping up tagging and monitoring, with an up to £700 million uplift in annual probation budgets.

Toughening up punishment outside of prison so offenders pay back their debt to society.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Baroness McIntosh of Pickering:To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to ensure that internal drainage boards are fully funded for their role in preventing flooding and water management. \p Baroness Hayman of Ullock: The Government supports and values the vital work internal drainage boards (IDBs) undertake in managing water levels and reducing flood risk, benefitting communities, businesses and farmers.

IDBs are mainly locally funded by the beneficiaries of their work, farmers paying drainage rates and local authorities paying special levies.

The Government’s £91m IDB Fund is supporting greater flood resilience for farmers and rural communities. IDBs are delivering projects that are already benefiting over 400,000 hectares of farmland and over 200,000 properties.

However, we recognise the need to ensure IDBs are set up in the longer term. In response to rising financial pressures on IDBs, and the farmers and local authorities who fund their work, Defra and MHCLG have commissioned a research project into IDB funding and costs. This is focussed on financial efficiency, value for money, and the broader benefits which IDBs deliver for local communities.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Baroness McIntosh of Pickering:To ask His Majesty's Government when they will publish the White Paper for water, and when they plan to introduce legislation giving effect to the recommendations of the Independent Water Commission chaired by Sir Jon Cunliffe. \p Baroness Hayman of Ullock: The Government will respond to the recommendations in full via a White Paper, published later this year. The White Paper will outline the Government’s vision for the future of the water sector, marking the most fundamental reset to our water system in a generation.

Following this there will be a new water reform bill, which we will introduce during this Parliament, bringing forward root and branch reform to secure better outcomes for customers, and the environment.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Wigley:To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Welsh Government about any joint action needed to minimise the danger of flooding in Monmouth. \p Baroness Hayman of Ullock: Flooding is a devolved matter, and the Welsh Government has responsibility for preparations, response and recovery. I offered support and assistance on behalf of Defra to the Deputy First Minister and officials engaged with their counterparts. Staff from Flood Re and a FloodMobile – a mobile demonstration unit that showcases dozens of Property Flood Resilience measures which can help better protect homes from flooding or make recovery faster – were in Monmouth on Wednesday 19 November and plan to revisit next week.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Porter of Spalding:To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to develop a sustainable funding solution for internal drainage board levies; and whether the funding support provided to councils will be further increased in the financial settlement. \p Baroness Hayman of Ullock: The Government supports and values the vital work internal drainage boards (IDBs) undertake in managing water levels and reducing flood risk, benefitting communities, businesses and farmers.

The Government’s £91m IDB Fund is supporting greater flood resilience for farmers and rural communities. IDBs are delivering projects that are already benefiting over 400,000 hectares of farmland and over 200,000 properties.

In recognition of IDB cost increases and the impact on local authority special levies, the government announced on 20 November 2025 as part of the 2026/27 Local Government Finance Settlement Policy Statement, that it will provide £5 million in funding for the local authorities most impacted by IDB levies. This follows the £5 million grant awarded in 2025/26. Allocations for the 2026/27 IDB levy support grant will be announced in due course.

However, we recognise the need to ensure IDBs are set up for the longer term. In response to rising financial pressures on IDBs, and the farmers and local authorities who fund their work, Defra and MHCLG have commissioned a research project into IDB funding and costs. This is focussed on financial efficiency, value for money, and the broader benefits which IDBs deliver for local communities. It will include examination of whether any changes are needed to their funding model. The research project was launched in early September and will close in summer 2026.
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Lord Foster of Bath:To ask His Majesty's Government what percentage of local nature reserves (1) in each county, and (2) in each local authority area, in England are in a favourable condition. \p Baroness Hayman of Ullock: Local authorities are responsible for declaring Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and ensuring they are managed appropriately. There is no statutory requirement for LNRs to meet a specific “favourable condition” standard. As a result, Defra does not hold data on the condition of LNRs by county or local authority.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Weir of Ballyholme:To ask His Majesty's Government whether negotiations on a sanitary and phytosanitary deal with the EU have begun; if not, why not; and when any such negotiations are due to begin. \p Baroness Hayman of Ullock: We have begun negotiations with the EU on an SPS agreement to make agrifood trade with our biggest market cheaper and easier, cutting costs and removing barriers to trade for British producers and retailers. While those negotiations are ongoing, we cannot comment further on the SPS agreement
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle:To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Hayman of Ullock on 8 July (HL9038), what actions they have taken to reduce the environmental impact of pet parasiticides, particularly fipronil and imidacloprid. \p Baroness Hayman of Ullock: We recognise increasing concerns about the environmental impact of spot-on parasiticide treatments for companion animals. Research funded by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has improved understanding of how substances such as fipronil and imidacloprid enter the environment, but further evidence is needed to address gaps around contamination sources, behavioural influences, and effective monitoring. To strengthen this evidence base, the VMD has launched a national survey to gather data on pet owner behaviours. In parallel, exposure modelling is being explored to support potential future regulatory decisions. These initiatives aim to safeguard animal health while reducing environmental impacts.

On 14 August 2025, the cross-Government Pharmaceuticals in the Environment Group convened its first stakeholder workshop on the ‘Appropriate and Practical Use of Topical Pet Parasiticides’, engaging a wide range of stakeholders from the companion animal sector. The workshop focused on developing educational messaging for pet owners on the correct use and disposal of parasiticides, which is now being refined and is expected to launch in spring. Additional measures to promote responsible parasiticide use were also explored and will be taken forward by other stakeholder groups, with the VMD helping to facilitate collaboration where appropriate.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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The Earl of Clancarty:To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to make recording studios eligible for the retail, hospitality and leisure business rates relief scheme from April 2026. \p Lord Livermore: As announced at the Budget in October 2024, the Government will introduce permanently lower business rates multipliers for qualifying retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) properties with rateable values below £500,000 from April 2026.

Since these new multipliers were announced in the previous Budget, the Government has been clear that the intention was for their scope to broadly reflect the scope of the current 40 per cent RHL business rates relief, which is centred around RHL properties that are “reasonably accessible to visiting members of the public”.

On 16 October 2025, the Government published legislation and accompanying guidance detailing the eligibility criteria for the new multipliers. As music studios are not generally reasonably accessible to visiting members of the public, the Government has no plans to make recording studios eligible for the new multipliers.

Nevertheless, the Government values the music industry and understands that recording studios are a vital part of the infrastructure of the industry. The Music Growth Package will see Government funding for the sector more than doubled from £4.1 million to up to £10 million a year for the next three years.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Trefgarne:To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the right of authorised contractors to obstruct the highway. \p Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill: Authorised contractors, have a legal right to access the highway for essential works, which can require temporary obstruction. To minimise disruption and protect road users, they must comply with the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice.

To help tackle congestion, the Government has recently approved new lane rental schemes and continues to support their rollout by highway authorities. These schemes which apply charges for works on the busiest roads and incentivise quicker, better-planned delivery have shown success in reducing delays and improving network efficiency. This is why we are devolving powers to mayors, enabling local leaders to introduce lane rental schemes tailored to their areas

Alongside this, the Department for Transport will publish an updated version of the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice next year, bringing guidance in line with modern standards and ensuring best practice across the sector. Together, these measures aim to keep traffic moving and improve the experience for all road users.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Bradshaw:To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill on 10 November (HL11340), in the Transport Analysis Guidance what, if anything, is the smallest period of time that can be taken into account in evaluating time saved by a scheme under consideration. \p Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill: Transport models are capable of capturing almost any scale of changes in journey time, down to fractions of seconds. Typically, these are aggregated across travellers to provide a measure of the impact of the scheme.

In the Department’s Appraisal Summary Table, used to capture the key results in the appraisal, promoters are requested to provide a breakdown of the total monetary value of net journey time changes by the following increments:
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Weir of Ballyholme:To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure biological males cannot be recorded as women in the crime statistics. \p Lord Hanson of Flint: The Government is considering the implications of the Supreme Court ruling on the definition of sex within the Equality Act.

The Government Statistical Service Harmonisation team, based in the Office for National Statistics, are also in the process of reviewing standards and guidance for statistical data on sex and on gender identity.

Once this has concluded the Government will review current guidance to agencies that collect crime statistics across the criminal justice system.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Lord Spellar:To ask His Majesty's Government where the pressure vessel and turbines for the small modular reactors announced for Wylfa will be manufactured. \p Lord Vallance of Balham: As announced on 13 November, the Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N) small modular reactor (SMR) project will be sited at Wylfa on Anglesey in North Wales, supporting around 3,000 good jobs at peak construction and thousands more across the supply chain.

Subject to final government approvals and contract signature, the project will deploy Rolls-Royce SMR technology. Ahead of contract signature, it is not possible to comment on specific SMR components or supply chain, though GBE-N's ambition is to deliver over 70% UK content across the SMR fleet.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-27)

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Baroness Hoey:To ask His Majesty's Government whether Operation Denton's report findings will be permitted to adjudicate on the criminality of members of the armed forces and security services; and what assessment they have made of the application of article 6 the European Convention on Human Rights on the right to a fair trial, given that Operation Denton is not a police investigation. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: Operation Denton is a thematic review, not a criminal investigation. As per its Terms of Reference, “the discovery of matters amounting to possible criminal misconduct which may be amenable to further criminal investigation will be brought to the attention of the Chief Constable of PSNI by the OIOC.”

In 2019, the Barnard Judgment at the Northern Ireland Court of Appeal [2019] (NICA 38) set out the requirement for an independent review of the activities of the so-called ‘Glenanne Gang’. The then Chief Constable of PSNI requested that the enquiries were conducted by Jon Boutcher, who at the time was the Officer in Overall Command of Operation Kenova. Operation Denton commenced in February 2020.

I understand the Operation Kenova and Operation Denton reports are nearing completion and will be passed to the PSNI soon. The PSNI will then consider the final details around publication of the reports.
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Baroness Hoey:To ask His Majesty's Government whether Operation Denton investigators travelled to Dublin on 8 October, and if so, whether they briefed campaign groups on their findings and confidential material. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: It is not for the Government to comment on the internal operational practices of Operation Denton or any other independent review or investigation.

I understand the Operation Kenova and Operation Denton reports are nearing completion and will be passed to the PSNI soon. The PSNI will then consider the final details around publication of the reports.
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Baroness Hoey:To ask His Majesty's Government whether they will confirm what statutory basis Operation Denton operates upon when it publishes its report. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: In 2019, the Barnard Judgment at the Northern Ireland Court of Appeal [2019] (NICA 38) set out the requirement for an independent review of the activities of the so-called ‘Glenanne Gang’. In discharge of the Judicial instruction, the then Chief Constable of the PSNI requested that the enquiries were conducted by Jon Boutcher, who at the time was the Officer in Overall Command of Operation Kenova. Operation Denton commenced in February 2020.
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Lord Caine:To ask His Majesty's Government what has been the total expenditure on overseas visits since 5 July 2024 by each of (1) the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, (2) the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and (3) Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: Since 5 July 2024, the Department has incurred expenditure of £9,728.99 for overseas travel undertaken by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. A total expenditure of £4,968.33 has been incurred for overseas travel undertaken by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State. No such expenditure has been incurred for myself.

Data on ministers’ overseas travel and on senior civil servants’ business expenses is published on a quarterly basis.
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Lord Caine:To ask His Majesty's Government how many officials and special advisers travelled with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland during his visit to the United States of America for the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in March; and what were the associated costs, including flights and accommodation. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland travelled to Washington accompanied by two special advisors and three officials.

Data on ministers’ overseas travel and on senior civil servants’ business expenses is published on a quarterly basis. The latest publication can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nio-ministerial-gifts-hospitality-travel-and-meetings-july-to-september-2024.

Information for the period January to May 2025 is available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nio-ministerial-gifts-hospitality-travel-and-meetings-january-to-march-2025.
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Lord Caine:To ask His Majesty's Government on how many occasions each of the following has stayed overnight in Northern Ireland since 5 July 2024: (1) the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland; (2) the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland; and (3) Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: Since 5 July 2024, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State have travelled regularly across Northern Ireland to undertake official business.

The Secretary of State has travelled to Northern Ireland 42 times since 5 July 2024. The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State has travelled to Northern Ireland 34 times, and I have travelled to Northern Ireland three times.
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Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick:To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Merron on 30 June (HL8217), whether they have considered the findings of more recent studies demonstrating nitrites as a plausible mechanism for the correlation of red and processed meat intake and an increased risk of cancer. \p Baroness Merron: The Food Standards Agency (FSA) considers that the existing levels of nitrites, approved food additives, provide sufficient protection for consumers. The FSA is aware of the changes made by the European Union, but has no plans to alter the maximum levels currently in legislation, because they remain important preservatives in a range of foods. As with all food additives, they have undergone safety assessments before authorisation and have been subject to various reviews both at a national and international level.

The FSA continues to keep new evidence under review as part of our rolling surveillance for previously authorised food additives. A review of the safety of nitrates and nitrites as food additives has been recently commissioned and will report back any significant changes in the supporting evidence base.

Current Government advice on red and processed meat consumption is based on the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition’s (SACN) report Iron and Health published in 2010. More recent studies demonstrating nitrites as a plausible mechanism for the correlation of red and processed meat intake and an increased risk of cancer have not yet been considered by the SACN. However, the committee is due to consider the topic of iron, which will likely include an assessment of the risks and benefits in relation to red and processed meat consumption.

In relation to processed foods more broadly, the SACN’s April 2025 rapid evidence update on processed foods and health found that the categories of processed food consistently associated with adverse health outcomes, including cancer, included meat and animal products. The SACN therefore reiterated its existing advice on processed foods, including avoiding high intakes of red and processed meat.
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Lord Bradley:To ask His Majesty's Government how many integrated care boards currently have a lead non-executive director with specialist mental health experiences, as required in guidance published under the Health and Care Act 2022. \p Baroness Merron: The Health and Care Act 2022 requires that one “ordinary” integrated care board (ICB) board member, excluding the Chair or Chief Executive, must have “knowledge and experience in connection with services relating to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness”. All ICBs must comply with this legal requirement, but neither the Department nor NHS England collects this information.

Guidance for ICBs is available on the NHS.UK website in an online only format, and states that “the chair must exercise their approval function of the ordinary members with a view to ensuring that at least one of the ordinary members has knowledge and experience in connection with services relating to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness”. For the ICB to achieve ongoing compliance with this requirement, the constitution should include a board position that can only be filled by candidates who meet these criteria:
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Lord Roberts of Llandudno:To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they will take to improve access to medical care and vaccinations for people who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. \p Baroness Merron: The Government recognises the importance of reducing barriers to healthcare services for those experiencing homelessness, including those in temporary accommodation.

We are committed to promoting high vaccine uptake for eligible cohorts across the vaccination programmes available on the National Health Service. General practices (GPs) offer relevant opportunistic catch-up vaccinations when anyone visits their GP for any reason. Primary and community care providers also have knowledge of, and have developed relationships with their local communities, making them optimally located to undertake outreach into underserved cohorts, such as the use of pop-up clinics and mobile units.

Local health systems are encouraged to use their access and inequality funding to target those who are at greater risk of morbidity, mortality, and hospitalisation, including those who are experiencing homelessness. Previously used to improve the offer of the COVID-19 vaccine, access and inequality funding can now be used to promote other vaccines, including flu, shingles, pneumococcal polysaccharide, and respiratory syncytial virus.
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Lord Scriven:To ask His Majesty's Government over what timescale NHS England will move integrated care systems to fair share funding allocation. \p Baroness Merron: Decisions on integrated care board funding allocations and the pace of convergence to fair shares for the next three years have not yet been taken. We expect to set out allocations alongside multi-year planning guidance in the autumn.
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Lord Foulkes of Cumnock:To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to expand the dementia diagnostic workforce to ensure that the NHS has the capacity to deliver timely and accurate diagnoses. \p Baroness Merron: The Government is committed to transforming diagnostic services and will support the National Health Service in England to increase diagnostic capacity to meet the demand for diagnostic services through investment in new capacity, including magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scanners.

NHS England is working with partner agencies to support and inform further research into other diagnostic modalities, including blood-based biomarker and digital tests, which may help improve identification and management of Alzheimer’s disease.

The Government’s Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals programme has already invested £13 million into a range of biomarker innovation projects, which include a broad range of biomarker technologies, ranging from an artificial intelligence tool designed to improve the accuracy of blood tests for dementia, to using retinal scans to detect early-onset dementia decades before symptoms. Some of these innovations could support improved diagnosis in the future, if validated for clinical use.

NHS England has established a dedicated national programme team which continues to actively monitor potentially promising new treatments in late-stage trials, and which is working to co-ordinate preparations for the potential roll out of new treatments. These plans include assessments of any additional diagnostic capacity or additional workforce that would be needed if new treatments are licensed in the United Kingdom and achieve a positive recommendation on NHS adoption by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.

Enhancing the skills of staff working in adult social care is also vital to ensuring that the care provided is of good quality, fair, personalised, and accessible.

Our health system has struggled to support those with complex needs, including those with dementia. Under the 10 Year Plan, those living with dementia will benefit from improved care planning and better services.

We will deliver the first ever Modern Service Framework for Frailty and Dementia to deliver rapid and significant improvements in quality of care and productivity. This will be informed by phase one of the independent commission into adult social care, expected in 2026.
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Lord Wigley:To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the reliability of postal deliveries in rural areas, and what plans they have to further investigate this matter. \p Baroness Jones of Whitchurch: The government is committed to a sustainable universal postal service for users throughout the UK, including maintaining the one-price-goes anywhere principle including for those in remote and rural areas.

It is for Ofcom, as the independent regulator of postal services, to set and monitor Royal Mail’s service standards and decide how to use its powers to investigate and take enforcement action should Royal Mail fail to achieve its obligations without good justification.
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Lord Taylor of Warwick:To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the use of artificial intelligence chatbots in toys aimed at children; and what plans they have to introduce regulations governing the use of AI in such products. \p Baroness Jones of Whitchurch: The Office for Product Safety and Standards is actively exploring the implications of integrating artificial intelligence into consumer products including toys, particularly the regulatory challenges this poses for ensuring product safety. The Product Regulation and Metrology Bill, which completed its passage through Parliament on 10 July, grants new powers to help ensure the UK's regulatory framework remains responsive to emerging technologies such as AI.
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Lord Empey:To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the international response to the involvement of North Korea in the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. \p Baroness Chapman of Darlington: The UK and international partners remain deeply concerned about the implications of the deepening Russia-DPRK military cooperation. The G7 has consistently condemned the military cooperation between the DPRK and Russia, most recently at the G7 Foreign Ministers' meeting on 14 March at Charlevoix. In February, together with our G7 partners, the UK imposed its largest sanctions packages against Russia since 2022 which included DPRK officials. We have continually raised the issue in other multilateral fora, including at the UN, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and NATO, as well as through our regular engagement with likeminded partners. We will continue to impose costs on Russia and DPRK.
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Lord Dodds of Duncairn:To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of recent reports of continued severe restrictions and persecution of Christians and other religious minorities in China; and what representations they have made about that issue to the government of China. \p Baroness Chapman of Darlington: The environment for freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) in China is restrictive, which includes the persecution of Christians and other religious minorities. Chinese regulations on religious activity severely restrict religious and cultural expression in China. This Government stands firm on human rights, including the right to FoRB. We raise our concerns at the highest levels: the Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary, Chancellor and Energy Secretary all raised human rights recently with their Chinese counterparts.

More broadly, this Government champions FoRB for all abroad. We work to uphold the right to FoRB through our position at the UN, G7 and other multilateral fora, and through bilateral engagement.

The recent launch of our FoRB strategy on July 8 outlines our approach to promoting and protecting the right to FoRB globally, of which China is one of ten focus countries. We continue to do all we can to encourage FoRB across China.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_13

Lord Empey:To ask His Majesty's Government what diplomatic efforts they have made to highlight the involvement of North Korea in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. \p Baroness Chapman of Darlington: The direct participation of Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) troops in combat operations and supplies to Russia is another dangerous expansion of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security. We have repeatedly raised the issue on diplomatic channels, in multilateral fora, and through our regular engagement with likeminded partners. As part of the G7, we also designated several DPRK individuals involved in supporting the Russian military-industrial complex. Most recently, on 17 June, the Prime Minister met with President Lee Jae Myung where they discussed Ukraine and the challenges posed by the DPRK. On 16 December, the Foreign Secretary, along with G7 Foreign Ministers, condemned the increasing military cooperation between the DPRK and Russia.
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_14
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_14

Lord Empey:To ask His Majesty's Government what proposals they have for additional sanctions to further deter North Korea from its involvement in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. \p Baroness Chapman of Darlington: Russia's increasing reliance on support from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to help wage its illegal invasion of Ukraine demonstrates its underlying weakness. As we have said publicly, the DPRK is believed to have supplied 20,000 containers of munitions to Russia, and its artillery and mortar shells account for 60 per cent of those used in Russia's brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. The DPRK must immediately withdraw its troops and stop its provision of thousands of munitions, arms and other materiel. The DPRK is subject to an extensive range of UN sanctions and the UK will continue to work with our partners to influence and to hold the DPRK to account for supporting Russia's illegal war in Ukraine. On 24 February 2025 the UK announced its largest sanctions package against Russia since 2022, including DPRK officials involved in supporting Russian military action against Ukraine. We do not comment on future or potential expansions of our DPRK sanctions as this could affect their impact.
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_15
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_15

Lord Empey:To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the involvement of North Korea in support of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. \p Baroness Chapman of Darlington: Russia's increasing reliance on support from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to help wage its illegal invasion of Ukraine demonstrates its underlying weakness. As we have said publicly, the DPRK is believed to have supplied hundreds of ballistic missiles and 20,000 containers of munitions to Russia. This includes millions of artillery and mortar rounds, accounting for around half of those Russia has fired against Ukraine. In addition the DPRK deployed approximately 11,000 combat troops to the Russian oblast of Kursk, sustaining 6000 casualties in offensive combat operations against Ukraine according to our latest estimates.
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_16
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_16

Lord Alton of Liverpool:To ask His Majesty's Government what assistance they are providing to victims of conflict-related sexual violence in Ethiopia; how this assistance will be affected by the cuts to Official Development Assistance; and how they are coordinating the responses to atrocity crimes in Ethiopia with other countries. \p Lord Collins of Highbury: The UK has played a critical role in supporting survivor-centred humanitarian interventions in Ethiopia, particularly in response to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in Tigray and other conflict-affected regions. The UK has prioritised healthcare, psychosocial support, access to justice, as well as policy efforts to increase accountability. In the last financial year, we allocated £4.6 million to deliver Gender Based Violence (GBV) and child protection services in Tigray, Afar, Amhara, Oromia and Somali regions. Between June 2023 and January 2025, GBV and child protection services reached over 50,000 women and girls, across 19 health facilities in affected regions. The UK remains committed to preventing CRSV and funding for GBV prevention and response has increased this financial year. Funding for future years has not yet been allocated.
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_17
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_17

Lord Alton of Liverpool:To ask His Majesty's Government, following the judgment by the High Court in R (Al-Haq) v Secretary of State for Business and Trade [2025] EWHC 1615 (Admin) on 30 June, whether they plan to consider the incorporation of the Arms Trade Treaty into domestic law. \p Baroness Chapman of Darlington: The Government is fully committed to international law and acts in a manner that is consistent with our international obligations and commitments. We remain strongly committed to the Arms Trade Treaty and to act accordingly. Our export control regime remains consistent with our international obligations.
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_18
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_18

Lord McCrea of Magherafelt and Cookstown:To ask His Majesty's Government when compensation will be paid to the victims of infected blood. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: The delivery of compensation is a matter for the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) as an operationally independent arm's-length body.

As of 15th July, IBCA has contacted 2, 215 people to start their compensation claim, and 1,934 people have started the claim process. 808 offers of compensation have been made, totalling over £602 million, and so far 587 people have accepted their offers with more than £411 million paid in compensation.
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_19
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_19

Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard:To ask His Majesty's Government what are the costs to date of implementing the Northern Ireland Protocol and Windsor Framework. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: In accordance with the Statement of Funding Policy on funding the devolved governments, the Government maintains its commitment to fund direct costs associated with reaching the required level of compliance to implement obligations under the Windsor Framework. A full breakdown of devolved funding can be found in Block Grant Transparency, the next update to which will be published in due course.

The Government will continue to provide a range of support to businesses and traders to facilitate the smooth flow of goods, reflecting our commitment to both the Windsor Framework and the UK internal market.
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_20
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_20

Lord Taylor of Warwick:To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of changes in the age at which adults are able (1) to buy a house, (2) to have children and (3) to get married, due to the financial strain of these milestones. \p Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent: The information requested falls under the remit of the UK Statistics Authority.

Please see the letter attached from the National Statistician and Chief Executive of the UK Statistics Authority.

Emma Rourke | Acting National Statistician

The Lord Taylor of Warwick

House of Lords

London

SW1A 0PW

14 July 2025

Dear Lord Taylor of Warwick,

As Acting National Statistician, I am responding to your Parliamentary Question asking what assessment has been made of changes in the age at which adults are able (1) to buy a house, (2) to have children and (3) to get married, due to the financial strain of these milestones (HL9248).

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) does not make any direct assessment of the extent to which financial strain impacts the age that people buy a house, have children or get married.

The ONS does publish the average age for different types of house buyers, including first time buyers, for years from 1990 to 2023, available in our House Price Data: annual tables - Table 37[1], and based on a sample of the Regulated Mortgage Survey.

In addition, the ONS has published Milestones: journeying through modern life[2] which includes information on age at which people buy a home, first marriage and age of first time mothers.

To assess the changing age of purchasers buying homes, people most commonly use the English Housing Survey, conducted by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). This includes analysis of change over time[3].

Yours sincerely,

Emma Rourke

[1]https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/inflationandpriceindices/datasets/housepriceindexannualtables2039

[2]https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/populationandmigration/populationestimates/articles/milestonesjourneyingthroughmodernlife/2024-04-08

[3]https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/chapters-for-english-housing-survey-2023-to-2024-headline-findings-on-demographics-and-household-resilience/chapter-3-housing-history-and-future-housing
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_21
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_21

Lord Taylor of Warwick:To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of whether the school curriculum should include education on the use of artificial intelligence. \p Baroness Smith of Malvern: The government has established an independent Curriculum and Assessment Review, which seeks to refresh the curriculum to ensure children and young people leave compulsory education ready for life and work, with the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to thrive. This includes embedding digital skills in their learning.

In its interim report, the Review noted the importance of the curriculum keeping pace with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and trends in digital information, including a renewed focus on digital and media literacy and critical thinking skills.

In response to this report, the department appointed a task and finish group to advise on digital, AI and technology. We will consider how best to develop and implement any of its recommendations, including those which aim to prepare children and young people to be ready for an AI and tech-enabled world. ​

The Curriculum Review’s final report and recommendations will be published in the autumn, at which point the government will respond.​
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_22
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_22

Lord Wigley:To ask His Majesty's Government what is their policy on supporting education in the medium of Welsh for pupils living in England. \p Baroness Smith of Malvern: The government recognises the cultural and linguistic importance of the Welsh language, which is reflected in the provision of Welsh-medium teaching for pupils living in Wales. In England, there is no requirement for schools to provide education through the medium of Welsh. However, schools have the flexibility to support pupils who speak Welsh or wish to learn the language.
lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_23
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-22)

UK Parliament Hansard data: lordswrans/lordswrans2025-07-22 conversation_23

Lord Young of Cookham:To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to activate "street votes", as legislated for in the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023. \p Baroness Taylor of Stevenage: The Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023, contains provisions allowing for the introduction of Street Votes. The government has no intention to bring those provisions into effect.