theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_358
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_358

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of training area availability on Army Cadet Force training in the next five years. \p Al Carns: Army Cadets Branch will continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure that the needs of cadets are recognised and considered in the priority of Defence Training Estate (DTE) allocation. Six camps and associated training areas have been ringfenced for cadet summer camps for 2025, through the DTE allocation process, to provide access to camp for c32,000 cadets this summer. It is anticipated that similar arrangements will be made for 2026 and beyond.

The Government remains convinced of the value of cadets and wherever possible we have taken steps to maintain the quality of the cadet experience that we offer. To this end I have directed that a review is carried out, closely aligned with the Strategic Defence Review, to determine how we can deliver more cadet activity and increase the size and offer of the Cadet Forces.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_359
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_359

Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many people served in the Armed Forces (a) in total and (b) by service between 2003 to 2023. \p Al Carns: The requested information is shown in the attached spreadsheet. UK service personnel statistics on strengths, requirements, intake, applications and outflow is published quarterly on GOV.UK here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/quarterly-service-personnel-statistics-index

Armed Forces numbers (xlsx, 32.5KB)
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_360
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_360

Ms Julie Minns:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress he has made on the rollout of Programme Cortisone. \p Al Carns: Programme CORTISONE will provide the Defence Medical Services (DMS) with an up-to-date electronic healthcare information management system to administer the healthcare of the Defence population to maximise fitness for role.

The delivery of Programme CORTISONE will ensure clinicians have the underpinning systems that enable them to focus upon providing the best possible patient care for service personnel to improve patient outcomes and to maximise personnel deployability.

One of the programme’s key drivers is coherence across the breadth of the DMS information and to enable seamless interoperability and connectivity with the NHS structures of the home nations. This will enable the DMS to achieve their clinical outputs in a fully informed, data driven manner.

Programme CORTISONE is currently delivering activity to ensure the stability of current medical information services (DMICP) in parallel with activity to introduce new capabilities. Work is underway to further the development of patient engagement services which are already demonstrating improvements to patient waiting times. The procurement process to deliver the new electronic healthcare information management system is ongoing with a plan to roll this capability over the next two years.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_361
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_361

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of legislating for the retrospective application of the Crown Proceedings (Armed Forces) Act 1987. \p Al Carns: There are currently no plans to apply the Crown Proceedings (Armed Forces) Act 1987 retrospectively. There is a route to compensation, outside of litigation, for Service personnel who served before May 1987, via the War Pensions Scheme.

The War Pensions Scheme is a no-fault scheme which provides compensation for Service personnel who are disabled or die due to injury caused or made worse by service in the UK Armed Forces before 6 April 2005. There are also a range of supplementary pensions and allowances payable, including for dependants.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_362
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_362

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many armed forces personnel have been assigned to provide Military Aid to the Civil Authorities to Birmingham City Council. \p Luke Pollard: Following a Military Aid to the Civil Authorities (MACA) request from the Ministry of Housing, Community, and Local Government, three military personnel deployed to support Birmingham City Council on 9 April for a period of seven days. This support, which was focused on operational planning only, concluded on 16 April.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_363
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_363

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which company is contracted to deliver recruitment advertising for the Royal Air Force. \p Luke Pollard: All media is bought through the cross Government buying contract with Manning Gottlieb (MG) Omni Media Group. All Government Departments are mandated to use this contract.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_364
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_364

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which company is contracted to deliver recruitment advertising for the Royal Marines. \p Luke Pollard: Recruitment advertising is procured through the Pan Government contract with Manning Gottlieb (MG) Omni Media Group.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_365
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_365

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the maximum number of non-British service personnel that can be recruited each year in (a) the British Army, (b) the Royal Navy excluding the Royal Marines, (c) the Royal Air Force and (d) the Royal Marines. \p Luke Pollard: An annual Basic Training Start limit for Commonwealth citizens is applied across the Armed Forces. This is currently set at 1,350 individuals per annum and distributed accordingly: a) 1,000 Army, b) 300 Royal Navy (there is no separate allowance for the Royal Marines), and c) 50 Royal Air Force.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_366
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_366

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he is taking steps to increase the presence of the Royal Navy in the Indo-Pacific region. \p Luke Pollard: In 2025, our maritime presence in the Indo Pacific will increase through Operation HIGHMAST, an eight-month multi-national UK-led carrier strike deployment comprising four Royal Navy platforms and an air wing. Op HIGHMAST will complement the Royal Navy's persistent maritime presence, which since 2021 has retained two Offshore Patrol Vessels in the region.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_367
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_367

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how the military aid allocated to support Ukraine through the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, announced on 11 April 2025, will be spent. \p Luke Pollard: At the 27th Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) on April 11, co-chaired by the Defence Secretary, allies pledged an additional €21 billion (£18 billion) in military support to Ukraine.

The £450 million announced jointly by the UK with Norway will be spent on a package which includes radar systems, anti-tank mines, hundreds of thousands of drones, worth over £250 million. It also includes £160 million to support the repair and maintenance of essential battlefield vehicles and equipment.

The UK Ministry of Defence published the official press release on the April UDCG on the gov.uk website.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_368
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_368

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will publish a list of the vehicles gifted to Ukraine. \p Luke Pollard: The UK continues to work with our Ukrainian partners to identify the capabilities they need to counter Russian aggression. I hope the hon. Member will understand that we will not provide further details of vehicle or equipment due to security classification.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_369
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_369

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much financial support has the UK contributed to Ukraine through the Ukraine Defence Contact Group since 5 July 2024. \p Luke Pollard: Since taking a leadership role in the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) in February, the UK Ministry of Defence has published official press releases on the February and April UDCG meetings on the gov.uk website announcing UK commitments. In February, the UK announced a £150 million military support package to Ukraine and a further £450 million for a rapid surge in military support was announced on the 27th UDCG on April 11.

Whilst the UK has not done formal press releases for previous UDCGs, since July 2024, the UK has publicly committed over £3 billion in equipment in support of Ukraine, including £1.6 billion through United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF).
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_370
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_370

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which units have had (a) existing and (b) allocated ammunition stocks reduced to donate ammunition to Ukraine. \p Luke Pollard: Since the beginning of the conflict, we have delivered over 500,000 rounds of artillery ammunition worth over £1.5 billion to Ukraine. With European partners, we are also members of the artillery capability coalition which delivers immediate support to Ukraine and also has a long-term plan to support Ukraine's ambitions for a NATO-interoperable future force.

For national security reasons we are unable to give a breakdown of how these have been sourced, nor can we comment on munition stockpile levels.

This Government is steadfast in our commitment to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. We are committed to giving Ukraine more military support than ever before this year, with a £4.5 billion boost for Ukraine in 2025.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_371
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_371

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much each country within the Coalition of the Willing has contributed to the £450m funding package announced on 11 April 2025. \p Luke Pollard: The £450 million package was announced at the Ukraine Defence Contact Group on 11 April 2025. This is separate from the Coalition of the Willing.

Of the £450 million, £350 million is being provided by the UK with further funding being provided by Norway via the UK-led International Fund for Ukraine.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_372
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_372

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many (a) phones, (b) laptops and (c) other electronic devices have been lost by their Department since 5 July 2024. \p Luke Pollard: The Ministry of Defence takes the security of its devices seriously and requires all losses and thefts to be reported.

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to Question 33948 on 7 March 2025 to the hon. Member for South Suffolk (James Cartlidge).

The updated figures for the requested period are:

Computers

USBs

Phones

Laptops

From 5 July 2024

11

2

14

8

August 2024

0

0

6

11

September 2024

0

1

19

8

October 2024

0

2

37

19

November 2024

0

1

4

2

December 2024

0

0

7

3

January 2025

0

5

124

7

February 2025

0

2

145

4

March 2025

1

2

18

32

Up to 21 April 2025

0

0

5

1

Total

12

15

379

95

It is important to note that not all of the above incidents have resulted in actual losses or thefts. On some occasions where devices could not be accounted for, they would be reported but may have subsequently been found.

January and February figures are high due to two incidents submitted by one part of Defence regarding the mustering of assets. Although it appears likely that the cause is poor accounting, the phones are still recorded as losses as this has not been confirmed.

The discrepancy came to light following the strengthening of accounting processes within that organisation. This new audit process will ensure record keeping and utilisation are carefully managed in future, minimising associated costs and wastage.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_373
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_373

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to provide (a) support and (b) compensation for veterans who have suffered asbestos-related illnesses. \p Al Carns: The War Pension Scheme (WPS) provides no-fault compensation for all ex-service personnel where illness, injury or death is caused by Service before 6 April 2005.

Compensation is paid for injuries or illnesses that arise as a result of Service or are made worse by Service. The scheme awards a disablement percentage between 0% and 100%, with those awarded at 20% - 100% receiving an ongoing weekly war pension, and those awarded at 1% - 19% receiving a one-off gratuity payment.

The WPS is also open to Veterans diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos during their military service prior to 6 April 2005, offering either a lump sum or regular payments.

The Ministry of Defence delivers a range of services to Veterans and their families. This includes the administration and payment of Armed Forces pensions and compensation, the provision of tailored advice and assistance through the Veterans Welfare Service, Defence Transition Services and the Integrated Personal Commissioning for Veterans.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_374
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_374

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what estimate he has made of the amount of 5.56mm ammunition required in order to ensure all Army Cadets are able to complete all annual shooting training requirements. \p Al Carns: The Army’s Cadets branch has conducted a review of the ammunition allocation for Training Year 2025-26 and has confirmed that there is sufficient 5.56mm ammunition to support delivery of the Army Cadet syllabus and both regional and national shooting competitions.

The 5.56mm allocation for all Army Cadets (ACF and CCF) was as follows;
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_375
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_375

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will publish the learning content for the diversity and inclusion elements of the Defence Leadership Centre portfolio. \p Al Carns: The Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) elements of the Defence Leadership Centre portfolio include D&I Fundamentals, D&I Practitioner, D&I Advisor, Holistic Allies Training, Leading Diverse and Inclusive Organisations (currently pending revision) and Active Bystander. Further information on these courses can be found on the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom website at the following links:

https://www.da.mod.uk/courses/diversity-and-inclusion-fundamentals/

https://www.da.mod.uk/courses/diversity-and-inclusion-practitioner/

https://www.da.mod.uk/courses/diversity-and-inclusion-adviser/

https://www.da.mod.uk/courses/holistic-allies-training/

https://www.da.mod.uk/courses/leading-diverse-and-inclusive-organisations/

https://www.da.mod.uk/courses/active-bystander-fundamentals/

These courses are consistently reviewed and updated, to ensure that they are in accordance with relevant policies.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_376
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_376

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 24 March 2025 to Question 39113 on Armed Forces: Equality, if he will list the terms of reference of the previous review into Armed Forces equality, diversity and inclusion. \p Al Carns: As previously advised in the answer of 24 March 2025 to Question 39113 on Armed Forces: Equality, the review was commissioned by the previous Government and was not published. As such, there is no intention to publish any internal correspondence related to this work.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_377
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_377

Neil O'Brien:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 5 March 2024 to Question 15748, how many staff in (a) The Ministry of Defence (b) Defence Equipment & Support and (c) the Submarine Delivery Agency have email tallies which include the words (i) equality, (ii) diversity, (iii) inclusion, (iv) gender, (v) LGBT and (vi) race. \p Al Carns: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him on 26 September 2024 to Question 1555.

Ministry of Defence: Equality (docx, 16.0KB)
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_378
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_378

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to increase the pay of soldiers, in the context of planned increases in defence spending. \p Al Carns: Pay is an important part of a comprehensive benefits package to our Service personnel including subsided food and housing; together, these play a vital role in supporting wider recruitment and retention.

Pay for most frontline public sector workforces, including the Armed Forces, is set through an independent Pay Review Body process. These independent bodies consider a range of evidence when forming their recommendations and then submit reports to the Government, which considers them before announcing final settlements.

The Armed Forces’ Pay Review Body submitted its report to the government on 10 April 2025. The Government will now carefully consider the recommendations before publishing the report and the Government’s response to it, recognising the importance of giving certainty on 2025-26 pay settlements as early as possible.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_379
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_379

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 18 March to Question 36721 on Ministry of Defence: Written Questions, when he plans to respond to Question 26308 on Army and Marines: Training, tabled on 24 January. \p Luke Pollard: I responded to the hon. Member on 28 April 2025.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_380
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_380

Rupert Lowe:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what (a) religious and (b) cultural holidays are observed by their Department. \p Al Carns: The UK Civil Service only formally observes the government-set bank holidays.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_381
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_381

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to ensure that the UK’s financial contributions to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission are sufficient to maintain the graves of UK military personnel. \p Al Carns: The annual funding for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC’s) is split between the six member countries, in proportion to the number of war dead from each nation. The United Kingdom is by far the largest contributor at 78.4%.

Defence officials work very closely with the CWGC each year to set the annual budget, and therefore funding, for the following year. This work takes account of any specific requirements or projects that may be forecast, whilst also ensuring that the Commission works effectively and efficiently.

On that basis, the Ministry of Defence will continue to provide adequate funding going forwards.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_382
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_382

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will publish his Department's analysis of the Private to Sergeant promotion rate for (a) non-UK and (b) UK service personnel. \p Al Carns: Work is ongoing to better understand and improve the careers and lived experience of all members of our Armed Forces.

The Army Race Action Plan, delivered in April 2023, observed that non-UK Service Personnel (SP) on average take longer to be promoted from Private to Sergeant compared to their UK counterparts.

The Army's subsequent investigation identified three main factors causing the discrepancy:

The analysis found no evidence of systematic unfair treatment of non-UK SP in the Army promotion process.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_383
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_383

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many cadets there are affiliated to the (a) British Army, (b) Royal Navy, (c) Royal Air Force and (d) Combined Cadet Forces. \p Al Carns: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) publishes annual accredited official statistics on the strength of MOD-sponsored Cadet Forces. The latest iteration provides statistics as at 1 April 2024 and can be found at the following address: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/mod-sponsored-cadet-forces-statistics-2024. The next iteration of these statistics is expected to be published in June 2025 with information as at 1 April 2025.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_384
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_384

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much his Department has spent on the procurement of hearing protection via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency since 2015. \p Maria Eagle: The Ministry of Defence has spent a total of approximately £11 million on hearing protection via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency since 2015, for the procurement of equipment to supply the Tactical Hearing Protection System programme.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_385
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_385

Richard Baker:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to ensure (a) supply chain resilience and (b) sovereign capability in the procurement strategy for Programme Euston. \p Maria Eagle: Programme Euston will draw on a broad range of suppliers to deliver the infrastructure needs at HMNB Clyde.

Programme Euston will engage with UK based and international suppliers to assess whether they have the required capability and capacity to deliver. No decisions have been made as this time.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_386
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_386

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what estimate he has made of the cost to the public purse of US Air Force European Infrastructure Consolidation works. \p Maria Eagle: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 3 April 2025 to Question UIN 42680.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_387
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_387

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the capabilities of the Royal Air Force Chinook fleet. \p Maria Eagle: The phased retirement of the 14 oldest Chinook helicopters, as announced by the Secretary of State in November 2024, will be optimised to ensure that the Chinook Force continues to meet its many operational commitments to the British Army and that UK and global readiness continues to be delivered. From January 2027 these 14 helicopters will be replaced by state-of-the-art H47 (Extended Range). The Force remains ready to rapidly deploy as directed by Defence.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_388
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_388

Richard Baker:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of UK industrial capacity to deliver floating dry docks required for Programme Euston. \p Maria Eagle: Programme Euston is currently in the Concept Phase and no procurement decisions have been made. A detailed assessment of market capacity and capability will take place as the requirements develop.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_389
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_389

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the budget is for the Personal Hard Armour Framework. \p Maria Eagle: The Ministry of Defence has issued a Prior Information Notice outlining plans to establish a new framework agreement for the procurement of Personal Hard Armour to support British Armed Forces personnel.

The agreement, which will be managed by Defence Equipment and Support and is scheduled to run from 31 October 2025 to 30 October 2033, could be worth up to £250 million including VAT, over an eight-year period.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_390
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_390

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 1 April to Question 43149 on Artillery: Procurement, if he will confirm that (a) no decision has been taken on the procurement of 15 MLRS and 1 RRV and (b) any decision will not be made until after the publication of the SDR. \p Maria Eagle: We are currently undertaking a Strategic Defence Review which is looking at the threats we face and the capabilities we need to meet the challenges, threats and opportunities of the 21st century. No final decision has yet been taken on the procurement of 15 MLRS and 1 RRV.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_391
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_391

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent progress his Department has made on delivering the Meteor programme. \p Maria Eagle: Meteor is in service on Typhoon with integration onto F-35 Lightning II progressing to plan. Initial Meteor Mid Life Activities are also on track and due to report at the end of 2025. Progression to the next stage of Mid Life is subject to the six Meteor Partner Nations agreement expected later this year.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_392
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_392

Euan Stainbank:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, if his Department will take steps to support advanced manufacturing following the introduction of US tariffs. \p Sarah Jones: Advanced manufacturing is critical to UK prosperity. This Government will continue to support the sector through our forthcoming Industrial Strategy, where advanced manufacturing has been selected as one of eight growth-driving sectors.

We remain committed to discussions with the US on a wider economic deal that works both for the UK and the US but nothing is off the table - we will do what is necessary to defend the UK’s national interest. That is why on 3 April, we launched a Request for Input to give businesses the chance to have their say and influence the UK response.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_393
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_393

Sarah Olney:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, if he will make his policy to require venture capital firms to (a) record and (b) publish the diversity of founders receiving investment. \p Sarah Jones: The Department is working to improve access to finance for diverse founders. An example of one initiative is the Investing in Women Code.

It was established in 2019 as a recommendation of the Alison Rose Review to increase transparency and data reporting on gender in the investment landscape. It is a commitment to support the advancement of women entrepreneurs in the UK by improving their access to the tools, resources and finance they need to achieve their goals. Signatories to the Code are voluntary, and data is published on an annual basis on the GOV.UK website.

In February 2025, a roundtable discussion was held with the finance industry, including Venture Capital representatives, to address access to finance issues for ethnic minority founders. We are exploring how best to gather and monitor the impact of having better ethnicity data.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_394
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_394

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, pursuant to the Answer of 19 March 2025 to Question 37785 on Construction: Employers' Contributions, what estimate his Department has made of the (a) number of firms in the construction sector who will pay increased employers’ National Insurance and (b) market share of those firms within the construction sector. \p Sarah Jones: The vast majority of firms in the construction sector are small or microbusinesses, which will see no change overall. The Government has protected small businesses and charities from the impact of the increase to Employer National Insurance by increasing the Employment Allowance from £5,000 to £10,500, and 865,000 employers will pay no NICs this year.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_395
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_395

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, with reference to the written statement of 17 December 2024 on Progress towards a modern industrial strategy, HCWS319, if he will publish the declarations of interest of each member of the Strategic Advisory Council; and whether they include declarations of political interest. \p Sarah Jones: All members of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council were appointed in line with the Cabinet Office’s Direct Ministerial Appointments guidance based on their broad range of skills and experience from across business, academic and trade unions to inform the Industrial Strategy. All conflicts and interests were declared in line with this appointments process to ensure these are appropriately managed. Direct Ministerial appointees are politically impartial in their roles and there is no requirement for conflicts to be made public under Cabinet Office guidance.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_396
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_396

Lee Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps is he taking to support the steel industry. \p Sarah Jones: Steel is a top priority for this Government. As shown with the passing of the Steel Industry (Special Measures) Act, this Government will not hesitate to take unprecedented steps to safeguard the future of steelmaking in the UK, protecting jobs, national security and supply chains.

We have completed the roll out of the British Industry Supercharger, which from this month means our steel industry will save an estimated £320mn – £410mn this year. This is on top of continuing the network charging compensation scheme.

We have taken action to make public procurement of UK-made steel easier and increased support for businesses to report unfair international trade practices. We have continued to develop the policy and approach for the steel strategy.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_397
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_397

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether his Department plans to make changes to the permitted size of a serving of beer or cider. \p Justin Madders: This Government has no plans to change the permitted size of a serving of beer of cider.

Draught beer or cider can be served in a 1/3 pint, 1/2 pint, full pint, or multiples of those sizes as defined in the specified quantities set out in the Weights and Measurers legislation.

We have stated our commitment to preserving the pint, and the amendment to the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill put forward by Lord Fox, and supported by the Government, ensures any future government could not use the powers in the Bill to change the uses or size of the pint.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_398
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_398

Rupert Lowe:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what (a) religious and (b) cultural holidays are observed by their Department. \p Justin Madders: In addition to annual leave, DBT grants UK employees eight public holidays and one privilege day, which represents the King’s Official Birthday and can be taken on 23rd or 27th May. The eight public holidays follow public holidays in England and Wales, however, offices in Scotland and Northern Ireland can rearrange days to match local custom.

Overseas employees are granted public holidays depending on their posting, set by their Head of Mission.

Religious or cultural holidays occurring outside of the public and privilege holidays are not subject to additional leave and must be taken as annual leave or flexi leave.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_399

Ian Roome:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether his Department has made an assessment of trends in the level of market competition in the consumer credit rating sector. \p Justin Madders: The government recognises the significant role of healthy competition in markets in giving consumers access to services and products of high quality, supporting business growth and the wider economy. Responsibility for investigating individual and market-wide competition concerns falls to the Competition Markets Authority (“CMA”), the UK’s independent competition authority. The government has ensured that the CMA has significant powers to investigate and act to ensure markets remain competitive, and consumers are protected from unfair or exploitative market practices.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_400

Victoria Collins:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps his Department has taken in response to the Taylor Review of Modern Working Practices to review working practices for (a) taxis and (b) private hire vehicle. \p Justin Madders: The Taylor Review was published in 2017 and while it continues to be a valuable contribution to the debate on working practices, this Government is focused on delivering our plan to Make Work Pay.

Once implemented, our Plan to Make Work Pay will represent the biggest upgrade of workers’ rights in a generation. It will raise the minimum floor of employment rights, raise living standards across the country and level the playing field for those businesses that are already engaged in good practices.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_401

Tom Morrison:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of introducing legislation that mandates full ingredient disclosure for all menstrual products. \p Justin Madders: Period products are regulated by the General Product Safety Regulations 2005, which requires all products to be safe and for consumers to be provided with information on the potential risks of a product. Through the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill, the Government has committed to consult on this matter to ensure that any changes to the safety provisions of these products are robust and consistent.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_402
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_402

Mr James Frith:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether he plans to extend the suspension of customs tariffs on fruit juices after June 2026. \p Mr Douglas Alexander: 203 suspensions are due to expire on 30 June 2026, including 27 measures that are in place on fruit juices and concentrates. The Government will consider a possible extension ahead of the measures’ expiry date. Further information about the review will be made available on GOV.UK in due course.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_404

Claire Hanna:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what discussions his Department has had with the National Council for the Training of Journalists on establishing a mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreement with the Republic of Ireland. \p Mr Douglas Alexander: The UK government encourages regulators and industry bodies to engage with their counterparts in the Republic of Ireland to ensure professionals are able to practise in both jurisdictions. Independent UK regulators and industry bodies are responsible for agreeing recognition agreements with their overseas counterparts.

The Department for Business and Trade has not held discussions with the National Council for the Training of Journalists on establishing a mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreement with the Republic of Ireland.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_405

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, with reference to the consultation on the implementation of the new subscription contracts regime, published on 18 November 2024, whether the provisions on subscription contracts will apply to the (a) sale and (b) marketing of trade union membership. \p Justin Madders: The subscription regime will apply to contracts between a trader (a person acting for business purposes) and a consumer (an individual acting outside of their business) which have auto-renewal features and where the consumer receives goods, services or digital content from the trader in return for payment.

Generally, individuals are likely to join a trade union for purposes solely to do with their trade or profession. Although there are variations, they are joining a collective of workers that will represent their interests at work. Unions are democratic organisations, controlled by members, allowing them to influence how their membership fees are used.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_406

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the trade union recognition provisions in the Employment Rights Bill on SMEs. \p Justin Madders: The Government has published a final stage impact assessment on strengthening workers’ rights to access, recognition and representation (see paragraphs 61 to 66 in relation to trade union recognition in particular). This is available at: Impact assessment: Strengthening workers’ rights to trade union access, recognition and representation.

The statutory trade union recognition scheme is available to unions where the workplace has 21 or more workers. Therefore the smallest workplaces that have 20 or less workers are not in scope of the scheme.
wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_407
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_407

Neil O'Brien:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, how many staff in his Department have job titles that include the words (a) equality, (b) diversity, (c) inclusion, (d) gender, (e) LGBT and (f) race. \p Justin Madders: In DBT, we do not have any roles in HR or Corporate Services with job titles which include the words ‘equality’, ‘diversity’, ‘inclusion’, ‘gender’, ‘LGBT’ or ‘race’.

Within our Trade Policy, Implementation and Negotiations Group (TPIN), we have 8 roles which include the word ‘gender’ in the job titles – these roles cover FTA chapters rather than a corporate/HR role.

Within our Domestic and International Markets and Exports Group (DIME), we have one role which includes the word ‘diversity’ in the job title – this role is an administrative one as of the King’s Award for Enterprise Team.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_408

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps he is taking to help tackle intimidatory practices by trade unions when on strike. \p Justin Madders: The Government is clear that there is no place for intimidation in any workplace. Our trade union legislation provides for picketing to lawfully take place, but this picketing must be peaceful and those on picket lines must not harass or intimidate workers that choose to attend work. The Code of Practice on Picketing remains in effect and this will continue to be the case.

In the event of non-striking workers being intimidated or harassed, there is a wide range of criminal and civil sanctions that are applicable in this area including in common law and in various acts of Parliament.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_409

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, pursuant to the Answer of 10 April 2025 to Question 44224 on Employment Rights Bill: Local Government Services, if he will consult each (a) local authority and (b)town and parish council. \p Justin Madders: We will continue to undertake comprehensive engagement and consultation on the implementation of the Plan to Make Work Pay and the Employment Rights Bill, and we will be engaging closely with employers, including local authorities as the policy develops. We will consult extensively on the implementation of the legislation, to ensure it works for workers and employers alike.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_410

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, with reference to the Certification Officer's corporate reports entitled Unite the Union: annual returns (PDF format), for what reason Unite have provided partial annual returns between 2021 and 2023. \p Justin Madders: Responsibility for trade union annual returns lies with the Certification Officer. They have been in communication with Unite the Union regarding its annual returns for 2021 to 2023. The Certification Officer is currently satisfied that the delay in providing full returns is due to issues identified during the auditing process.

The Certification Officer continues to engage with Unite the Union to ensure that full annual returns are submitted as soon as possible, after which they will be published in full on their website.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_411

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether the trade union recognition provisions in the Employment Rights Bill will apply to town and parish councils. \p Justin Madders: Guidance on the trade union recognition scheme is at Gov.uk. This sets out that the scheme is available to unions where the workplace has 21 or more workers. Therefore the smallest workplaces that have 20 or less workers not in scope of the scheme. There are no specific exemptions for town and parish councils.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_412

Victoria Collins:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps his Department is taking to help support (a) small and (b) medium-sized businesses on the high street in Harpenden and Berkhamsted constituency. \p Gareth Thomas: Small businesses across the UK including in Harpenden and Berkhamsted are the beating heart of our high streets and communities. This Government is committed to supporting them through a fairer business rate system.

From 2026-27, we’ll introduce lower tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) properties with rateable values under £500,000. RHL relief will be extended for 2025-26 at 40%, and the small business multiplier will be frozen for the same period.

The Business Secretary has also announced a new Business Growth Service to help businesses access more easily the support they need to thrive and grow and we will publish our strategy to support small businesses later this year.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_413

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, pursuant to the Answer of 3 April 2025 to Question 41450 on Electoral Commission: Companies House, whether data has been shared between Companies House and the Electoral Commission; and how data sharing requests can be made by the Electoral Commission. \p Justin Madders: Companies House has not shared data with the Electoral Commission using powers conferred on it under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA).

Companies House makes a range of company information available through its online public register, including details about the company itself, its directors, and People with Significant Control (PSCs). This data is accessible free of charge via their online services.

Companies House also works with law enforcement agencies and other public authorities to share information not available on the public register using the powers introduced by the ECCTA. This activity takes place via a dedicated team.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-29)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-29 conversation_414

Andrew Ranger:To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that businesses and employers are contributing to enhancing social mobility through (a) apprenticeships, (b) internships and (c) employment practices. \p Gareth Thomas: The Plan to Make Work Pay aims to improve fairness at work, ensure equal treatment and opportunity, and support low-paid workers.

Too many young people are struggling to access high-quality opportunities. That is why this government is working with businesses to develop new foundation apprenticeships: to give more young people a foot in the door at the start of their working lives whilst supporting the pipeline of new talent that employers will need to drive economic growth.