theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_311
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_311

Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what recent progress his Department has made on improving digital inclusion in the Slough constituency. \p Chris Bryant: The Government published its Digital Inclusion Action Plan in February 2025, which outlines the first five actions we are taking over the next year to boost digital inclusion in every corner of the UK, including Slough.

These will be targeted at local initiatives for boosting digital skills and confidence, widening access to devices and connectivity, and getting support to people in their own communities so everyone can reap the benefits of technology.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_312
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_312

Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what progress he has made on setting up AI growth zones. \p Feryal Clark: His Majesty’s Government has made steady progress in delivering the AI Opportunities Action Plan, published in January.

This includes establishing AI Growth Zones (AIGZs) to accelerate large-scale AI infrastructure development across the UK. Culham, home to the UK Atomic Energy Authority, has been named as the first AIGZ.

To identify further AIGZs, DSIT opened an early expression of interest period, in which DSIT received over 200 expressions of interest. DSIT has how opened the formal process for applicants to apply to host an AIGZ. This will remain open on a rolling basis.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_313
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_313

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, pursuant to the Answer of 7 May 2025 to Question 48565 on Proof of Identity: Databases and Digital Technology, whether he has had recent discussions with (a) Tony Blair and (b) the Tony Blair Institute on proposals for a national digital identity database. \p Feryal Clark: The department has not had any recent discussions or meetings with (a) Tony Blair or (b) Tony Blair Institute on proposals for a national identity database.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_314
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_314

Mr Will Forster:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to support people affected by political persecution in the India- Pakistan conflict. \p Catherine West: The agreement to cease further military action reached on 10 May is a hugely welcome development. The UK's long-standing position is that it is for India and Pakistan to find a lasting political resolution on Kashmir, taking into account the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

The UK Government recognises that there are human rights concerns in both India-administered Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. We continue to encourage all states to ensure domestic laws are in line with international standards.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_315
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_315

Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to ensure that UK exports are not used to help facilitate potential human rights abuses. \p Stephen Doughty: Each export licence application is assessed on a case-by-case basis against the Strategic Export Licensing Criteria, which provides a thorough risk assessment framework. The Government will not grant an export licence if to do so would be inconsistent with the Criteria for a controlled item. The Criteria require us to carefully consider the impact of the export of items and their capabilities. Risks around human rights violations and abuses are a key part of our assessment. The Government will not grant a licence for items where we determine there is a clear risk that the items might be used to commit or facilitate internal repression which includes a serious violation of human rights.

Legislation also expressly provides for these stringent processes and standards to be applied to non-controlled goods on a case-by-case basis, items intended for use by the military, paramilitary, security forces (including government intelligence organisations), or police forces of a destination, subject to an arms embargo.

We can and do respond quickly and flexibly to changing or fluid international situations. All licences are kept under review as standard.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_316
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_316

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what the Government Art Collection (a) reference number and (b) title is of each item (i) installed and (ii) removed from each (A) Embassy, (B) High Commission and (C) residence since 4 July 2024. \p Catherine West: The Government Art Collection is a working collection, used across government buildings in the UK and the global estate, which means that artworks may change their display location from time to time in response to new display steers and requests.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_317
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_317

Luke Akehurst:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what information his Department holds on whether the Myanmar military is violating United Nations Security Council Resolution 2417 in (a) Rakhine State and (b) other places. \p Catherine West: We continue to call on the Myanmar military to allow full, unrestricted humanitarian access in Myanmar and to respect fundamental humanitarian principles, including in Rakhine state. One in four households in Myanmar are in acute food insecurity. The UK has reached over 650,000 people with humanitarian food support in 2024, through our humanitarian programme. We will continue to maintain a spotlight on the humanitarian situation in Myanmar and will continue to provide vital humanitarian assistance and support.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_318
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_318

Victoria Collins:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had discussions with the EU on access to the Security Action for Europe fund. \p Stephen Doughty: This is a critical moment for the security of Europe. We welcome European efforts to increase defence spending, through the ReArm initiative and proposed Security Action for Europe (SAFE) mechanism. This must be a whole-of-Europe effort, in alignment with NATO, which remains the cornerstone of European security.

The UK and the EU have agreed an ambitious new Security and Defence Partnership as part of a wider package that delivers for the British people. The Security and Defence Partnership sets the framework for closer defence industrial collaboration, including potential participation in the EU's proposed €150 billion Security Action for Europe instrument.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_319
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_319

John McDonnell:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of proposed reductions to the Official Development Assistance budget on women and girls. \p Stephen Doughty: Decisions on how the Official Development Assistance (ODA) budget will be used are being worked through as part of the ongoing Spending Review, based on various factors including impact assessments. Equality Impact Assessments - which consider impacts on women and girls - are an essential part of how we make decisions on ODA allocations.

The UK is committed to empowering women and girls around the world through our international work.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_320
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_320

Fabian Hamilton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the implications for his Department’s policies of the speech by the BBC Director General on 14 May 2025. \p Catherine West: We have noted the speech given by the BBC Director General on 14 May. The Government is in close touch with the BBC on all issues - we have regular discussions at both senior and official level. The Government highly values the BBC World Service, which provides impartial accurate news to a global audience of 320 million. The Government is providing a funding uplift of £32.6m (31 per cent) for the World Service in FY 2025/26.  It remains the world's most trusted international news service. Any decisions on government funding for the World Service for future years will be made through the ongoing Spending Review process.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_321
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_321

Zarah Sultana:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how many and what proportion of the potential violations of international humanitarian law that have been assessed by the Government in relation to Israel’s actions in Gaza involved (a) F-35 jets and (b) 2000lb bombs. \p Mr Hamish Falconer: On 2 September 2024 we suspended export licences to Israel for use in military operations in Gaza, following a review into Israel's compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) which concluded there was a clear risk that some UK exports might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of IHL. It was necessary to exclude exports to the F-35 programme from the suspension, as previously set out to Parliament. This is due to the F-35 programme's broader strategic role in North Atlantic Treaty Organization and wider implications for international peace and security.

Our ongoing IHL assessments continue to raise concerns about possible breaches of IHL in the areas of humanitarian access and in the treatment of detainees. The lack of sufficient verifiable evidence means that we have not been able to reach a determination regarding Israel's IHL compliance in the conduct of hostilities. Our assessment findings give cause for concern about Israel's commitment to IHL generally, including in the conduct of hostilities.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_322
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_322

Amanda Hack:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with local councils on (a) accessing the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund and (b) using cross-pavement solutions for charging electric vehicles. \p Lilian Greenwood: Government has regular discussions with local authorities about accessing the £381 million Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund and has appointed a support body to assist local authorities with pre and post-application support.

In December 2024, following significant engagement with local authorities, the Government published cross-pavement guidance to help local authorities understand what they need to consider for the roll-out of cross-pavement solutions. This includes relevant planning permissions, minimum existing standards, responsibilities and case studies of trials.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_323
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_323

Kim Johnson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to help mitigate the potential impact of open shipping registers on (a) employment and (b) welfare standards for seafarers working in the shipping industry. \p Mike Kane: Improving the pay and working conditions of seafarers is a priority for this government. We are committed to working with the sector and our international partners to improve standards.

All vessels visiting the UK must comply with international minimum standards on employment and welfare. We work with like-minded states and our social partners to continue to improve those international standards.

The UK has signed Memoranda of Understanding with Spain, Greece and Cyprus agreeing to coordinate on matters relating to the conditions of seafarers.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_324
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_324

Kim Johnson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Shipping Deputy Ministry of the Republic of Cyprus in promoting higher standards of seafarer (a) employment and (b) welfare in the short sea ferry industry. \p Mike Kane: The Memorandum of Understanding covers maritime safety, security and environment and is a basis for dialogue of mutual interest to both states, and to exchange information and best practice. It also promotes cooperation on dialogue in the international fora on areas of common interest.

For seafarers, we have seen this most recently in April in our co-operation with Canada, EU member states including Cyprus, and others on important amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention that the UK helped to drive through.

As the flag state for several vessels on the short sea ferry sector, Cyprus complies with all international and EU requirements in terms of employment and welfare of seafarers. Domestic regulations put in place by the coastal state may go over and beyond international requirements. These are compliant with international law and recognise the authority of the flag state.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_325
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_325

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make a comparative assessment of (a) levels of passenger satisfaction and (b) the number of trains on that have run on time on (i) Northern Rail, (ii) C2C and (iii) Greater Anglia in the last 12 months. \p Simon Lightwood: A comparison with Northern is not appropriate as this Government inherited that operation with a long running industrial dispute that the previous Government had taken no steps to resolve. We hold Northern, c2c and Greater Anglia to account for their performance through a variety of contractual measures (including the quality of service, punctuality and how they are managing customer satisfaction).

Train performance data can be found on the ORR website and satisfaction data is published by Transport Focus at the following websites:

https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/statistics/performance/passenger-rail-performance/

https://www.transportfocus.org.uk/insight/rail-passenger-scorecard/
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_326
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_326

Afzal Khan:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to support the decarbonisation of heavy duty vehicles. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Government is committed to decarbonising heavy-duty vehicles, and is supporting this through programmes such as the Plug-in Truck Grant, the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme, further funding for the Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas programme, and a bus decarbonisation measure in the Bus Services Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_327
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_327

Afzal Khan:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent assessment her Department has made of the potential merits of introducing a zero emission vehicle mandate for heavy duty vehicles. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Government believes that more needs to be done to decarbonise the road freight sector. We are currently considering our regulatory approach for decarbonising new non-zero emission heavy goods vehicles and look forward to engaging the sector on this in due course.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_328
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_328

Afzal Khan:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that the rapid charging fund is used effectively. \p Lilian Greenwood: A reliable, accessible and visible public charging network to support EV drivers on long journeys is essential.

The market has changed significantly since the previous government announced the Rapid Charging Fund in 2020, including increased private sector investment in infrastructure, a changed regulatory environment, and improvements in battery technology. There are now over 5,250 open-access, rapid and ultra-rapid chargepoints within 1 mile of the Strategic Road Network (England’s motorways and major A roads).

We will ensure taxpayers' money is used as efficiently as possible to make the transition to electric vehicles a success. The Rapid Charging Fund pilot was launched in 2023 to better understand where to target government support. We will apply learning from the pilot and continue working with industry to inform future policy to boost charging infrastructure on the Strategic Road Network.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_329
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_329

Afzal Khan:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if her Department will review emission standards for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in line with EU ratings. \p Lilian Greenwood: The current emission standard for cars and vans in Great Britain is known as Euro 6d. Under the Windsor Framework, Northern Ireland applies the EU standard, known as Euro 6e.

The Department for Transport plans to consult soon on a proposal to update the required emission standard for new cars and vans, including plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, in line with Euro 6e.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_330
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_330

Sir John Hayes:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to increase the number of apprenticeship starts in her Department. \p Mike Kane: We remain committed to supporting the use of apprenticeships across all government departments to break down barriers to opportunity. This includes supporting the Government's commitment to 2,000 digital apprenticeships through its TechTrack scheme by 2030 to improve digital skills and drive improvements and efficiency in public services.

Additionally, a new cross-Government Level 3 apprenticeship programme in Business Administration, the ‘Civil Service Career Launch Apprenticeship’ (CLA), will see new apprentices kickstart their careers, across various departments, starting from January 2026.

Following the introduction of Skills England and a recent review of DfT’s Talent & Apprenticeship Strategy, we have refined our focus on providing apprenticeships within priority skills areas that are better aligned to Government Missions and the skills we are looking to grow within the department.

HR are working to provide a wider range of apprenticeships in our Department in key fields, particularly STEM, Digital, Data, and AI, where demand is highest and in using apprenticeships as a route for individuals to obtain essential learning such as HR and Finance qualifications.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_331
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_331

Sarah Olney:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department plans to include an updated assessment of the potential impact of noise from a third runway at Heathrow on public health in a future version of the guidance entitled Transport analysis guidance, published on 29 October 2013. \p Mike Kane: The government supports airport expansion and has invited proposals for a third runway at Heathrow. It expects any proposals to be brought forward by the summer and is clear that any scheme must be delivered in line with the UK’s legal, climate and environmental obligations.

TAG, or Transport Analysis Guidance, provides information on the role of transport modelling and appraisal. It is a set of guidance for senior responsible owners, project managers and technical practitioners and focuses on guidance for all modes and any scheme, rather than a specific scheme such as Heathrow Expansion.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_332
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_332

Perran Moon:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to encourage the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil in the domestic production of sustainable aviation fuel. \p Mike Kane: Hydrotreated vegetable oil is a low carbon fuel made from oils and fats, which is used in rail or road transport.

Oils and fats are also used to make a type of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) called HEFA or hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids. HEFA will play a vital role in our aviation decarbonisation journey. The UK is already producing and supplying this type of SAF, and we welcome the further development of this industry. The supply of HEFA SAF is incentivised by the UK’s SAF Mandate, which came into force this year. The SAF Mandate could deliver up to 6.3 megatonnes of carbon savings per year by 2040.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_333
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_333

Nick Timothy:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what information her Department holds on the number of charging points for electric vehicles that have been built in each year since 2015, broken down by local authority. \p Lilian Greenwood: The information requested is not available.

The Department does hold and publish the number of public electric vehicle charging devices in the UK by local authority as of the first day of the month each quarter from 2019 onwards. This information can be found in the attached table.

Number of charging points - EV's - LA's (xlsx, 75.1KB)
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_334
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_334

Kate Osborne:To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, what discussions she has had with (a) charities, (b) private sector organisations and (c) other non-government organisations on the implementation of changes to practice following the Supreme Court judgment on legal definitions of sex within the Equality Act 2010. \p Seema Malhotra: The Government has set out our expectation that organisations follow the clarity the Supreme Court ruling provides. The EHRC has already committed to supporting organisations with its updated statutory Code of Practice which they are consulting on. We will continue to engage with stakeholders across the board as we have always done.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_335
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_335

Sir Julian Lewis:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he plans to take to investigate the security of UK (a) solar and (b) wind farms to ensure that there are no kill switches in Chinese-made inverter units installed in their structures. \p Michael Shanks: The Department works continually with Ofgem and the National Cyber Security Centre to ensure that regulations continue to capture the most critical operators of energy generation systems. Distributed and smaller-scale generation are key components of a smart and resilient energy system.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_336
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_336

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an estimate of the potential impact of (a) manufacturing vehicles in and (b) importing vehicles from China on global carbon emissions. \p Kerry McCarthy: The UK follows the agreed international approach for estimating and reporting greenhouse gas emissions, under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, which is for countries to report emissions produced within their territories.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs publishes consumption-based emissions statistics, including emissions from imported goods and services, which can be found here: Carbon footprint for the UK and England to 2022 - GOV.UK. The latest data show that emissions associated with goods and services imported from China were 85 MtCO2e in 2022, however this is not broken down by product type.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_337
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_337

Sir John Hayes:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to increase the number of apprenticeship starts in his Department. \p Michael Shanks: The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero will shortly launch a Talent Strategy in which apprenticeships play a central role in building the delivery capability DESNZ needs to be a mission-focused department. The department has a well-established apprenticeship offer, with around 84 apprentices currently in post.

As part of the Talent Strategy, we will increase the range and number of apprenticeships we offer by:

The Department has a core apprenticeship offer available to all staff and continues to onboard apprentices through centralised programmes run by the Civil Service Apprenticeship Unit and other initiatives. DESNZ is committed to creating early career opportunities for both current and new apprentices.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_338
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_338

Jim Shannon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the provision of solar farms. \p Michael Shanks: The solar market is mature, and Britain has a healthy pipeline of projects in development. The Clean Power Action Plan calls for the rapid acceleration of solar deployment, from around 18GW at present to 45-47GW by 2030. Large solar projects are supported under the Contracts for Difference scheme and the Government is pursuing reforms to grid connections and the planning system to support deployment. Further actions for government and industry will be published shortly in the Solar Roadmap.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_339
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_339

Nick Timothy:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to ensure all solar developments do not include components linked to forced or slave labour. \p Michael Shanks: The Government is committed to eradicating forced labour in supply chains, and we expect solar developers to do everything in their power to remove any instances of it that they find.

Legislation and guidance are already in place to help businesses take action against modern slavery. However, we are working across government to see where we can go further, keeping all potential policy options under review.

We are closely monitoring the industry-led supply chain assurance scheme, the Solar Stewardship Initiative. Further information on the actions needed to develop supply chains that are resilient and free from forced labour will be set out in the Solar Roadmap, to be published shortly.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_340
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_340

Nick Timothy:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his plans to introduce independent (a) oversight and (b) accountability mechanisms to monitor solar development supply chains. \p Michael Shanks: Legislation and guidance are already in place to help businesses and contracting authorities to oversee supply chains. Further information on the actions needed to develop sustainable supply chains will be set out in the Solar Roadmap, due to be published shortly.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_341
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_341

Martin Wrigley:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will take steps to plan a (a) risk assessment and (b) contingency plan on the National Grid to prevent national-level blackouts. \p Michael Shanks: Great Britain has a highly resilient energy system, and a total failure of power is assessed in the National Risk Register as a high impact but low likelihood event. In its 75-year history, the National Electricity Transmission System has never experienced a complete shutdown.

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has a range of tools to keep electricity balanced under a range of scenarios and to guard against system-wide failures. However, Government prepares for all eventualities and exercises robust contingency plans with industry, including NESO’s established plans to restore the energy system in the event of a National Power Outage.
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_342
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_342

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Right hon. Member for Kenilworth and Southam, representing the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission, how many Freedom of Information Act requests the Electoral Commission has substantively responded to since 4 July 2024; and what the outcome was of each. \p Sir Jeremy Wright: The Commission provided responses to 178 FOI requests between 4 July 2024 and 14 May.

A copy of the response to each FOI request submitted to the Commission can be found on its website at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/about-us/freedom-information .
wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_343
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-05-21)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-05-21 conversation_343

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Right hon. Member for Kenilworth and Southam, representing the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission, whether the Electoral Commission has previously released individual RPA candidate spending returns under the Freedom of Information Act. \p Sir Jeremy Wright: The Electoral Commission assesses each request under the FOI Act individually. The Act allows certain exemptions to be applied when considering requests, including an exemption for information that is reasonably by other means. Candidate returns are available on request from local authorities for two years for the date of receipt.

The Commission takes a range of factors into account when considering disclosure of candidate spending returns. The Commission has previously released a number of redacted individual candidate spending returns under FOI after the two-year period or where the return was not available from the Returning Officer.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_1
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_1

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what (a) Royal Navy and (b) partner forces helicopters are able to use the Helicopter Visual Landing Aid System. \p Luke Pollard: The planned timeline for installation of Glamox HVLAS (Helicopter Visual Landing Aid System) to the remainder of the Batch 2 Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) Fleet is aligned to the platform’s five Annual Recertification Maintenance Periods.

An exception to this may be due to operational requirement, or if there is a funding and timing opportunity to enable the advancement of installation work.

Wildcat are the Royal Navy’s cleared aircraft and HVLAS is suitable for all aircraft from Partner Nations, although limited by their size and weight.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_2
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_2

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 48 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, what progress he has made on reviewing (a) storage and (b) other standards to remove regulations. \p Luke Pollard: I refer the hon. Member to the response my noble friend, the Lord Coaker, gave on 24 July to Question HL9399.

I would also like to add that Astra, established in 2020, is the Royal Air Force's (RAF) approach to grassroots innovation. It focuses on adopting and adapting technology to address challenges, questioning restrictive policies and processes, and incrementally improving practices to enhance operational effectiveness. Over the past two years, Astra initiatives have delivered significant benefits, including saving approximately 250,000 workforce hours annually, while improving key areas such as aircraft availability, sustainability, and operational readiness. The Astra team, along with the rest of the RAF, remains fully committed to delivering Recommendation 48 of the Strategic Defence Review.

Air Force: Weapons (docx, 16.2KB)
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_3
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_3

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 113 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what progress he has made in increasing RAF reserves by 50%. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The RAF continues to make positive progress toward increasing its Reserves by 50% by focusing on recruitment activity, structural reform and strategic alignment. The RAF is prioritising the growth of the Part Time Volunteer Reserves, who are the reserve of first choice for operational support, while also enhancing the management and training of the Strategic Reserve to maximise the skills and experience of ex-Regular personnel.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_4
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_4

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 114 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what assessment he has made of the (a) flexibility, (b) efficiency and (c) value for money of civilian charter options for air-to-air refuelling in non-contested environments. \p Luke Pollard: The RAF Voyager Force contributes to NATO Integrated Air Defence and NATO Enhanced Air Policing. In addition, I refer the hon. Member to the answer the right hon. Member for Liverpool Garston (Maria Eagle) gave to him on 4 July 2025 to Question 63066.

F-35 Aircraft: In-flight Refuelling (docx, 16.1KB)
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_5
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_5

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 112 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what assessment he has made of the level of challenge to the primacy of crewed aircraft. \p Luke Pollard: The safety of aircrew and the survivability of crewed platforms remain paramount. The Strategic Defence Review sets a path for the next decade and beyond to transform Defence and make the UK stronger both at home and abroad. The Government endorses the Review's vision and accepts all 62 recommendations.

The implementation of the Review's recommendations is underway; this will be priority business and will be executed through a whole of UK Defence effort. Our Defence Investment Plan (DIP) which will be published in due course, will set out how we intend to deliver the Review's recommendations. The DIP will be affordable, consider infrastructure and people, alongside capabilities and enable flexibility to seize new technological opportunities maximising the benefits of defence spending to grow the UK economy.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_6
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_6

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of (a) expanding the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and (b) replicating that scheme to cover emergency services personnel. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encourages employers to pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the Armed Forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

ERS now comprises 8,000+ employers which represents an increase of approximately 550 employers from last year. With the scheme performing well, there are no plans to expand it.

As emergency services personnel are not within the remit of the Secretary of State for Defence, there are no plans to replicate the scheme to cover them.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_7
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_7

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of awarding the first certification for a remotely operated and unmanned vessel under the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Workboat Code Edition 3 Annex 2 to the ACUA Ocean PIONEER. \p Luke Pollard: A substantial number of unmanned systems are operated remotely both within the UK and internationally under Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) certification, including compliance with the latest iteration of the Workboat Code. Where appropriate, the Department actively collaborates with manufacturers and operators of these systems to explore and address synergies between civilian and military applications, ensuring alignment with operational requirements and advancing innovation in this evolving domain.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_8
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_8

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 106 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what assessment he has made of the use of commercial vessels to augment the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Fleet Solid Support Ships in non-contested environments. \p Luke Pollard: The Ministry of Defence continues to assess options for augmenting Fleet Solid Support capabilities in non-contested environments. Commercial vessels are being considered for low-risk logistical roles, offering potential benefits in cost and flexibility.

Work is underway to establish assured access to UK-based shipping through strategic frameworks, supported by industry engagement via the Shipping Defence Advisory Council. These efforts aim to ensure readiness through identified vessels, trained crews, and secure communications infrastructure.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_9
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_9

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 106 of the Strategic Defence Review, updated on 8 July 2025, what progress he has made in enhancing the mandate of the Defence Maritime Regulator. \p Luke Pollard: The Defence Maritime Regulator (DMR) is currently developing several options for defence to consider and progress. These options are being developed in conjunction with defence stakeholders and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and will be presented for consideration by April 2026. The current options vary in scale and scope, but all allow for the unique legislative freedoms afforded to the Royal Navy and to Defence Shipping to be utilised to support the development of Maritime Autonomy. DMR is supporting the ongoing development of the MCA’s own maritime autonomy programme as the two organisations strive to deliver safe and environmentally sound shipping in the defence and civil sectors.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_10
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_10

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 35 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what progress he has made on developing mechanisms for the enhanced parliamentary scrutiny of the UK’s nuclear deterrent spending. \p Luke Pollard: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 8 September 2025 to Question 70759 to the hon. Member for South Suffolk (James Cartlidge).

Nuclear Weapons: Parliamentary Scrutiny (docx, 16.7KB)
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_11
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_11

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 34 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what recent progress he has made in determining what the post-Dreadnought nuclear deterrent would be. \p Luke Pollard: This Government is fully committed to the United Kingdom’s independent nuclear deterrent, underpinned by our triple lock commitment to continue to build the four new Dreadnought Class submarines, maintain our continuous at sea deterrent and deliver all the required upgrades, including the replacement warhead.

The Government has accepted all of the Strategic Defence Review’s recommendations, including the need to start to define the requirement for the post-Dreadnought nuclear deterrent within this Parliament, and is currently working to progress this.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_12
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_12

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 91 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, what progress he has made on reinvigorating the strategic reserve. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The Military Strategic Headquarters, in partnership with the Military Commands, is leading work to plan the reinvigoration of the Strategic Reserve. This includes scoping how to increase engagement through annual training opportunities, exercises and exploring a digitised approach to Reserves management.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_13
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_13

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 91 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, what progress he has made on mapping reservists’ (a) locations and (b) skills. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: In support of the Strategic Defence Review recommendation to step-up engagement with the Strategic Reserve, the Military Strategic Headquarters, in partnership with the Military Commands, is leading work to gather and assure the relevant information on ex-Regular Service personnel who still hold a Strategic Reserve liability. This includes gathering updated contact and location details, and in future, skills information. We are improving our assurance of this information, such as through the UK exercise programme in coming years.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_14
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_14

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 88 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, what progress he has made on organising public engagement days. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 8 September 2025 to Question 70737 to the hon. Member for South Suffolk (Mr James Cartlidge).

Ministry of Defence: Public Consultation (docx, 16.3KB)
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_15
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_15

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the UK’s contribution is to the European Long Range Strike Approach. \p Luke Pollard: The UK is supporting and participating in a number of areas in the European Long Range Strike Approach (ELSA), including surface and air launched capabilities over different range and performance needs.

The very long range (2000km+) Deep Precision Strike programme launched between UK and Germany is an example with opportunities for wider European participation under ELSA.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_16
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_16

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 90 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, what progress he has made on exploring the development of a new force modelled on the reserves which connects local communities with defence. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 8 September 2025 to Question 70739 to the hon. Member for Gravesham (James Cartlidge).

Defence: Community Development (docx, 16.4KB)
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_17
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_17

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 89 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what progress he has made on reviewing the Submarine Telegraph Act 1885. \p Luke Pollard: The legislation is currently being reviewed by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology in relation to the protection and security of subsea cables. The Ministry of Defence is a key partner in this process.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_18
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_18

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 71 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what recent progress he has made on developing a two-way secondment programme. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The Ministry of Defence currently has provisions in place for formal inward and outward secondments, which are used successfully across the Armed Forces and Civil Service. We are now exploring options for developing a similar, less formal arrangement, reviewing its potential benefits for Defence and evaluating our capacity to adapt and manage the workforce effectively.
wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_19
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-18)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-18 conversation_19

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 71 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what steps he is taking with the Secretary of State for Education to help tackle barriers to education for people within his Department. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: Defence officials continue to work closely with colleagues in the Department for Education to ensure consistency of educational frameworks, standards and outcomes. We work hard to remove barriers to learning for our personnel and provide tailored support for those with Specific Learning Differences.

Support is provided through English and Maths Functional Skills training, promotion of GCSE attainment, industry-recognised apprenticeships that accredit trade training, and schemes like Standard and Enhanced Learning Credits. Our leadership and management development programmes, using professional partners, as well as allowances for further and higher education, also provide opportunities for continued learning and development.