theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_401
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_401

Lola McEvoy:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department is taking steps to strengthen fire safety regulations for battery energy storage systems. \p Michael Shanks: In GB, fires at battery sites are rare and are mitigated by a regulatory framework overseen by the Health and Safety Executive. The latest available 5-year annual average fire incidence rate for GB batteries is 0.7% (2020/21 to 2024 to 2025)[1], lower than for wider non-domestic building fires in England at 0.8% (2019/20 to 2023/24)[2].

To complement this regulation, DEFRA is consulting on including batteries within the Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR). EPR requires sites to demonstrate to the Environment Agency that harms are avoided or controlled and provides for ongoing regulatory inspections.

[1] https://modoenergy.com/indices/industry-metrics?r=gb&m=operationalSites

[2] https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/fire-statistics-monitor
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_402
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_402

Anna Dixon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will apply the forthcoming revised sustainability criteria for biomass to any new Contracts for Difference being developed for post-2027 generation at (a) Drax and (b) Lynemouth power stations. \p Michael Shanks: Revised sustainability criteria for large-scale biomass electricity generators, such as Drax and Lynemouth, were published on 10 February 2025 following a consultation.

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/transitional-support-mechanism-for-large-scale-biomass-electricity-generators

These criteria will apply to any potential contracts awarded under this mechanism.

More broadly, the Government plans to consult later this year on the development of a Common Biomass Sustainability Framework. The timeline for publication and implementation of the framework will depend on the outcomes of that consultation.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_403
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_403

Sarah Gibson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that UK-manufactured (a) hydrogen and (b) fuel cell technologies are affected by (i) current and (ii) future (A) hydrogen production and (B) usage schemes. \p Michael Shanks: The UK is taking a whole-system approach to developing a hydrogen economy, putting in place the policy and regulatory frameworks needed to support deployment and attract private investment across the full hydrogen value chain.

We are driving demand through our hydrogen production and hydrogen transport and storage business models and supporting manufacturers of hydrogen equipment, including fuel cells, through our comprehensive Public Financial Institution offer, which includes Great British Energy, National Wealth Fund and the British Business Bank. We are also improving the visibility of the UK supply chain through “Meet the Specifier” and “Meet the Buyer” events.

We will publish a UK Hydrogen Strategy later this year which will set out clear priorities for collaboration with industry.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_404
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_404

Charlotte Nichols:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the contribution of the civil nuclear supply chain in Warrington North constituency to (a) regional and (b) national economic growth. \p Michael Shanks: As evidenced by the inclusion of civil nuclear the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, the government recognises that our nuclear programme is an important driver of regional and national growth. We also recognise the considerable presence of the civil nuclear supply chain in Warrington North, with businesses in the region contributing a range of expertise across the programme.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_405
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_405

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to ensure that employees in the oil and gas industry in England have adequate skills to find new employment. \p Michael Shanks: We will shortly be publishing a clean energy workforce strategy which will set out our approach to upskilling and reskilling the workforce into clean energy roles through initiatives including the Energy Skills Passport, in collaboration with industry, which is helping oil and gas workers to identify routes into roles in offshore wind including construction and maintenance.

The skills system is delivering training for existing workers looking to retrain or upskill into clean energy. Support includes the announcement of 10 Technical Excellence Colleges for construction, which will transform existing further education colleges to deliver the skills needed for growth-driving sectors like clean energy; the Growth and Skills levy to deliver greater flexibility for learners and employers in England; and Skill Bootcamps to address the need for clean energy skills where this reflects regional priorities.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_406
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_406

Charlotte Nichols:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of his policies on new nuclear on job creation. \p Michael Shanks: This Government’s nuclear policies are set to create thousands of high-quality jobs across the UK. At peak construction, Sizewell C will support 10,000 jobs directly employed in the project, thousands more in the nationwide supply chain, and plans to create 1,500 apprenticeships. Furthermore, a small modular reactor project delivered through the Great British Energy – Nuclear SMR programme could create up to 3,000 jobs at peak construction. The new Atlantic partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy between the UK and the US will accelerate deployment of new nuclear power, unlocking opportunities for billions in private investment and delivering thousands more well-paid skilled jobs.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_407
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_407

Charlotte Cane:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of decoupling electricity prices from wholesale gas prices on household energy bills. \p Michael Shanks: As unabated gas generation is displaced and transitions to a reserve role, wholesale electricity prices will increasingly decouple from the price of gas. Accelerating the deployment of renewable generation, as we are through our Clean Power 2030 Mission, will reduce the frequency with which gas sets the marginal price, helping to rapidly decouple electricity from gas prices without the need for more complex arrangements. This will in turn reduce consumer exposure to volatile international gas prices.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_408
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_408

James Wild:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions his Department has had with Island Green Power on the proposed plans for The Droves Solar Farm; and if he will publish (a) the minutes and (b) the agenda of any such meetings. \p Michael Shanks: Details of Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_409
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_409

Charlotte Cane:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of safety regulations for battery energy storage sites. \p Michael Shanks: In GB, battery fires are rare and are mitigated by a robust framework overseen by the Health and Safety Executive, requiring responsible parties to ensure safety throughout a battery’s deployment. The latest available 5-year annual average fire incidence rate for GB batteries is 0.7% (2020/21 to 2024 to 2025)1, lower than for wider non-domestic building fires in England at 0.8% (2019/20 to 2023/24).2

To complement this regulation, DEFRA is consulting on including batteries within the Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR). EPR requires sites to demonstrate to the Environment Agency that harms are avoided or controlled and provides for ongoing regulatory inspections.

[1] https://modoenergy.com/indices/industry-metrics?r=gb&m=operationalSites

[2] https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/fire-statistics-monitor
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_410
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_410

Dr Al Pinkerton:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of providing consumers with access to information on (a) historical and (b) real-time electricity supply interruptions in Surrey. \p Michael Shanks: Access to real time information during power disruptions is essential for situational awareness at a national and local level. All Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) offer power outage information on their websites and have made significant improvements in customer communications, following the Storm Arwen review in 2022 with requirements to report on response times during outages.

Customers can access information on any disruptions by contacting their network operator by dialling 105 or alternatively visiting: https://www.powercut105.com/findoperator.

DNOs, per their license obligations, report their annual performance for customer interruptions to Ofgem each year. This information is published in Ofgem's RIIO-1 Electricity Distribution Annual Report.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_411
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_411

John Whitby:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what progress the Government has made on reviewing how future MPS surpluses should be shared. \p Michael Shanks: The previous Minister of State for Industry met the MPS Trustees on 9 July and confirmed the Government’s commitment to considering their proposals regarding the future of the scheme. DESNZ will now engage HM Treasury with a view to agreeing a way forward.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_412
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_412

Sarah Gibson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he plans to introduce additional incentives for hydrogen project developers to source (a) equipment and (b) components from UK manufacturers. \p Michael Shanks: In the Industrial Strategy, we set out the UK's potential to be a global leader in both hydrogen deployment and supply chains, given the shared skills and infrastructure from the oil and gas sector, existing strengths in innovation, and our supportive policy environment. We have a strong offer for domestic manufacturing including support from our Public Finance Institutions and deployment certainty through Hydrogen Allocation Rounds (HARs). Additionally, we welcome the industry-led voluntary ambition of 50% UK local content for hydrogen across the value chain from 2030.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_413
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_413

Anna Dixon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will ensure that revised sustainability criteria for biomass are in place before new Contracts for Difference are finalised for (a) Drax and (b) Lynemouth power stations. \p Michael Shanks: Revised sustainability criteria for large scale biomass generators, such as Drax and Lynemouth, were published on 10 February 2025 following a consultation.

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/transitional-support-mechanism-for-large-scale-biomass-electricity-generators

These criteria will apply to any potential contracts awarded under this mechanism.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_414
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_414

Mark Pritchard:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether any solar infrastructure built with the support of GB Energy will use solar panels built in regions where supply chains have evidence of (a) modern slavery and (b) other exploitation. \p Michael Shanks: Great British Energy will lead the way in ethical supply chains, and there is no place for forced labour or unethical practices in the UK's energy transition. The Procurement Act 2023 enables public bodies to reject bids and terminate contracts with suppliers known to use forced labour. As a state-owned company, Great British Energy is expected to be a first-in-class example of adherence to the UK’s legislation and guidance on modern slavery, including the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

All contracts issued under the schools and hospitals solar initiative have complied with UK procurement rules, including extensive requirements under the Modern Slavery Act 2015. Great British Energy will uphold these standards in its contracting arrangements and is actively engaging with international partners to raise the bar globally on solar supply chain accountability.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_415
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_415

Gregory Stafford:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the extent to which oil and gas companies operating in the UK contribute to the costs of climate-related damage. \p Michael Shanks: The North Sea Transition Authority enforces compliance with the North Sea Transition Deal to ensure the oil and gas sector halves its emissions by 2030 and achieves net zero emissions by 2050, in line with the UK’s carbon budget. The targets will be achieved through initiatives including the industry’s Methane Action Plan which includes a 50% methane reduction target by 2030.

The Government also published in June supplementary environmental impact assessment guidance. The guidance marks a step forward in ensuring the full environmental impact of oil and gas extraction - including end use emissions - is considered for offshore projects.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_416
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_416

Mr Will Forster:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential merits of prioritising grid connections for renewable energy projects that are ready to commence. \p Michael Shanks: The Government is working closely with the National Energy System Operator, Ofgem and the network companies to deliver fundamental reform of the grid connections process. The reforms will prioritise connections for viable and strategically aligned projects, by releasing up to 500GW of capacity from the oversubscribed connections queue. This will enable accelerated connections for renewable energy projects that are ready and aligned with our strategic needs, as set out in the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, and help unlock £40 billion of mainly private investment a year in clean energy and infrastructure.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_417
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_417

Gregory Stafford:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that high-emission industries contribute fairly to funding climate recovery and adaptation. \p Chris McDonald: The UK Emissions Trading Scheme ensures that high-emitting sectors like power pay a fair price for the emissions they produce. ETS participants must buy allowances to cover their emissions, with revenues supporting government priorities including climate change mitigation and adaptation. The carbon price faced by businesses covered also drives them to invest in decarbonising their operations – over half say it has prompted them to invest in decarbonisation. We are expanding the scheme to the energy from waste and maritime sectors.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_418
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_418

Charlotte Cane:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department plans to make (a) local fire services and (b) the Environment Agency statutory consultees for battery energy storage sites. \p Michael Shanks: This government takes fire safety extremely seriously. In GB, fires at battery sites are rare and are mitigated by a regulatory framework overseen by the Health and Safety Executive. The latest available 5-year annual average fire incidence rate for GB batteries is 0.7% (2020/21 to 2024 to 2025), lower than for wider non-domestic building fires in England at 0.8% (2019/20 to 2023/24).

We do not intend to make fire authorities or the Environment Agency statutory consultees on planning applications involving Battery Energy Storage Solutions (BESS). However, DEFRA is currently consulting on the principle of including batteries under the scope of the Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR). EPR requires sites to demonstrate to the Environment Agency that harms are avoided or controlled and would provide for ongoing regulatory inspections.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_419
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_419

Jim Shannon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department has made an estimate of the funding required for local authorities to ensure the enforcement of proposed new minimum energy efficiency standards in the private rented sector. \p Martin McCluskey: Local authorities are key to enforcement and my department has engaged with them extensively throughout policy development.

Government is already taking steps to empower local authorities, including proposing increasing the maximum fine to £30,000 per-property per-breach, carrying out significant improvements to the Exemptions Register, and introducing a Landlord Database through the Renters’ Rights Bill. These steps will better enable local authorities to identify non-compliant properties in their area and take action to support landlords to comply.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_420
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_420

Anna Dixon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of extending eligibility for (a) energy support schemes and (b) the Warm Home Discount to people whose homes are not connected to electric or gas networks. \p Martin McCluskey: For schemes such as the Winter Fuel Payment, which helps pensioner households with heating costs, and the Cold Weather Payment, which offers additional support during periods of very cold weather to those on certain income-related benefits, households do not need to be connected to the gas or electricity networks.

To be eligible for the Warm Home Discount a consumer must be named on an energy account with an obligated supplier and be in receipt of a relevant means tested benefit. In February 2025 the Government consulted on broadening the scheme to include households without a direct relationship with an energy supplier, however it was not feasible to take this forward without increasing the cost of the scheme for all consumers.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_421
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_421

Charlotte Cane:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what support he plans to provide to households in Ely and East Cambridgeshire constituency with energy bills in winter 2025-26. \p Martin McCluskey: The Government believes that our mission to deliver clean power by 2030 is the best way to break our dependence on global fossil fuel markets and protect billpayers permanently.

We recognise that we need to support households struggling with bills whilst we transition to clean power by 2030. This is why we delivered the Warm Home Discount to around 3 million eligible low-income households last winter. On 19 June we announced that we are expanding the Warm Home Discount to around an additional 2.7 million households. This means that from this winter, around 6 million low-income households will receive the £150 support to help with their energy bills.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_422
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_422

Anna Dixon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what progress his Department has made in producing a climate action plan by 29 October 2025. \p Katie White: We will deliver an updated plan that sets out the policy package out to the end of Carbon Budget 6 in 2037 for all sectors of the economy later this month. This will outline the policies and proposals needed to deliver Carbon Budgets 4-6 on a pathway to net zero.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_423
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_423

Charlotte Cane:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he plans to introduce a social tariff for energy. \p Martin McCluskey: I know that more needs to be done to support vulnerable households that are struggling with bills whilst we transition to clean power.

The Warm Home Discount provides a £150 rebate off winter energy bills for eligible low-income households. On 19 June we announced that we are expanding the Warm Home Discount to around an additional 2.7 million households. This means that from next winter, around 6 million low-income households will receive the £150 support to help with their energy bill costs.

On 25 September we published a consultation setting out our intention to continue support for those 6 million households. The consultation sets out proposals for the next scheme period (up to winter 2030/31), after current regulations expire on 31 March 2026. Government is gathering feedback from stakeholders on the design of the core elements of the scheme, options for delivery of the scheme in Scotland, proposals to change some elements of the scheme for suppliers, a call for evidence on Industry Initiatives, and a call for suggestions for future improvements during the next scheme period. The consultation closes on Thursday 20 November.

In the interim, I appreciate that one of the biggest practical barriers to providing help to households that need it, is the availability of the right data to target financial support and advice. The Department for Net Zero and Energy Security is working closely with other Government Departments to unlock the data that will enable us to target support more effectively to those who need help with their energy bills.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_424
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_424

Charlotte Cane:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to help reduce regional inequalities in energy bills. \p Martin McCluskey: Energy prices vary regionally due to differences in the costs of local electricity and gas distribution networks, which are influenced by factors like population density and infrastructure maintenance. The energy price cap accounts for these differences in regional network costs by adjusting unit rates and standing charges.

The Government knows that, for many consumers, too much of the burden of the bill is placed on standing charges. The Government is committed to reducing consumer bills and bearing down on the standing charges and have worked constructively with the regulator, Ofgem, on this issue.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_425
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_425

Anna Dixon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions he has had with the Climate Change Committee on whether the UK is on track to stay within its carbon budgets from 2025 until 2042. \p Katie White: My Rt hon Friend the Secretary of State regularly engages with the Climate Change Committee (CCC). This year, the CCC published their independent advice to government on Carbon Budget 7 (2038-2042) and their annual progress report to government, which found that the government has made “bold policy decisions” in the last year to deliver progress in key areas to reduce emissions. We are considering their independent advice to government and will respond in due course.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_426
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_426

Mike Reader:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what engagement his Department has had with institutional investors to identify barriers to investment in green infrastructure; and what steps his Department is taking to address those barriers through policy or regulatory reform. \p Chris McDonald: The Department engages regularly with institutional investors and industry associations through bilateral meetings, roundtables and targeted events to better understand and address investment barriers. Insights from these interactions inform policy and regulatory reform to best mobilise private investment into the Clean Energy Mission. For example, investors were actively engaged in the Review of Electricity Market Arrangements. Engagement also informs planning reform, and changes to investment mechanisms such as recent Contracts for Difference reform. The Department works alongside public finance institutions to develop targeted interventions that crowd in private investment.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_427
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_427

Dr Ben Spencer:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, when he plans to respond to correspondence dated (a) 5 March 2025, (b) 13 May 2025 and (c) 11 June 2025 from the hon. Member for Runnymede and Weybridge, case reference BS35623. \p Anna Turley: The Government is committed to transparency and accountability, including through clear and timely responses to correspondence. I can confirm that your letter to the then-Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster dated 5 March, and subsequent emails of 13 May and 11 June, have been passed to me as the Minister responsible for this policy, and I have replied to your letter. Please accept my apologies for the delay.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_428
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_428

Mike Wood:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether any civil servants in his Department have been granted authorisation to attend the (a) Labour, (b) Conservative, (c) Liberal Democrat, (d) Scottish National Party and (e) Reform party conference in a private capacity in 2025. \p Anna Turley: This information is not held centrally within the Cabinet Office.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_429
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_429

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the value was of the contract awarded by his Department to Korn Ferry for the recruitment of the National Armaments Director. \p Anna Turley: The competition was supported by Kornferry: details of the contract award and value are available here: https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/be88f513-c01a-4620-89f9-1cb2cc686895 and here Executive & Non-Executive Recruitment Services - CCS
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_430
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_430

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, when he plans to respond to Questions 75061 and 75064 on National Armaments Director: Recruitment. \p Anna Turley: A response for both questions has been issued here and here.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_431
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_431

Sir Ashley Fox:To ask the Secretary of State for Wales, whether she has had recent discussions with the Welsh government on the potential impact of including (a) glass and (b) a reuse element in its deposit return scheme on cross-border businesses. \p Jo Stevens: The UK Government has regular discussions with the Welsh Government on the deposit return scheme, including through the Resources and Waste Common Framework.
wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_432
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-17)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-17 conversation_432

Martin Wrigley:To ask the Leader of the House, if he will have discussions with his Cabinet colleagues on the response times to written questions from the hon. Member for Newton Abbot. \p Sir Alan Campbell: Parliament has a right to hold Ministers to account. I have written to all members of Cabinet to remind Ministers of their responsibilities to provide full and timely responses to Members' PQs.

I encourage hon. Members to raise any specific issues they may have with myself and my office.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_1
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_1

Dr Rosena Allin-Khan:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps she is taking to ensure mental health services are integrated into employment support programmes. \p Alison McGovern: The Department for Work and Pensions has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_2
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_2

Dr Rosena Allin-Khan:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps her Department is taking to help jobseekers manage their mental health while looking for employment. \p Alison McGovern: The Department for Work and Pensions has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_3
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_3

Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether she has considered exempting Lifetime ISAs from Universal Credit capital rules. \p Sir Stephen Timms: There are no plans to change the way savings held in a Lifetime ISA are treated in the assessment of Universal Credit.

It is appropriate that means tested benefits, including Universal Credit, take all forms of savings into account. This includes investments where the Government provides a contribution to encourage saving such as the Lifetime ISA. People will not be required to cash in these ISAs in order to claim Universal Credit, but they will be taken into account as part of their capital. If a person has capital over £16,000, they will be expected to rely on their savings until their capital reduces to £16,000 before they can claim Universal Credit.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_4
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_4

Neil Duncan-Jordan:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps she is taking to (a) increase in-person assessments and (b) uphold claimants' rights to (i) fair treatment and (ii) reasonable adjustments. \p Sir Stephen Timms: As announced in Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper, we will be carrying out more face-to-face assessments while continuing to ensure we meet the needs of those who may require a different method of assessment because, for example, a reasonable adjustment is appropriate for them.

We are also consulting on a new DWP safeguarding approach, to make it clear what the department and its staff are expected to do to in order to safeguard the public.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_5
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_5

Neil Duncan-Jordan:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the measures set out in the Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper, published on 18 March 2025 on people claiming Disability Living Allowance who are being migrated to PIP. \p Sir Stephen Timms: The impact in each case will depend on an individual’s circumstances. For those already on PIP, the changes will only apply from November 2026 at their next award review, subject to parliamentary approval. People will be reviewed by a trained assessor or healthcare professional and assessed on individual needs and circumstance. More information on the impacts and equality analysis for these changes published on 26 March can be found here: Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper - GOV.UK.

People in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) aged 16 to 64 on 8 April 2013, or who reach age 16 after that date, are being invited to claim PIP and will be assessed against the PIP criteria. People in receipt of DLA who are in scope of PIP, but have yet to be invited to claim, can do so at any point.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_6
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_6

Neil Duncan-Jordan:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made on the potential impact of the measure set out in the Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper, published on 18 March 2025 on PIP claimants of retirement age. \p Sir Stephen Timms: Our intention is that the new eligibility requirement in Personal Independence Payment (PIP), in which people must score a minimum of four points in one daily living activity to be eligible for the daily living component, will apply to new claims and award reviews from November 2026, subject to parliamentary approval. In keeping with existing policy, people over State Pension Age are not routinely fully reviewed and will not be affected by the proposed changes.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_7
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_7

Neil Duncan-Jordan:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what discussions she has had with (a) professional bodies, (b) disability organisations and (c) experts on changes to the PIP (i) descriptor points reallocation and (ii) scoring change. \p Sir Stephen Timms: We have committed to introduce a new requirement that, in addition to the existing eligibility criteria, claimants must score a minimum of four points in at least one daily living activity to be eligible for the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Our intention is that – subject to parliamentary approval – the changes will apply to new claims and award reviews from November 2026.   We are also consulting on how best to support those who lose entitlement to Personal Independence Payment due to the reforms, including how to make sure health and eligible care needs are met.   Seperately we have also announced plans to launch a review of the PIP assessment, which I shall lead. To make sure we get this right, we will bring together a range of experts, stakeholders and people with lived experience to consider how best to do this and to start the process as part of preparing for a review. We will provide further details as plans progress.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_8
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_8

Cameron Thomas:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many people with Parkinson's in receipt of PIP with Parkinson's as their main condition were awarded four points or more in a category under the Daily Living Activities assessment. \p Sir Stephen Timms: Information on the impacts of the Pathways to Work Green Paper will be published in due course, and some information was published alongside the Spring Statement. These publications can be found in ‘Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper’.

A further programme of analysis to support development of the proposals in the Green Paper will be developed and undertaken in the coming months.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_9
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_9

Yuan Yang:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether her Department has conducted quantitative analysis into the potential causes of increases in claims for Personal Independence Payment into shares attributable to (a) underlying ill health, (b) financial incentives and (c) other personal or behavioural factors; and whether such analysis includes a comparison with the rate of increase in economic inactivity due to long-term sickness or disability over the same period. \p Sir Stephen Timms: The Department has not conducted quantitative analysis exactly as described; however, we do regularly monitor potential drivers of new claims demand for PIP and how this compares with changes in disability prevalence in the population. It is likely that both health-related and behaviour-related factors have been important contributory factors in the rising number of claims for PIP, as well as changes in the population, with demand for PIP accelerating since the COVID-19 pandemic.

A number of health-related factors may have contributed to these increases, including: higher prevalence and recognition of health conditions, particularly mental health and neurodiverse conditions; the direct health impacts of the COVID-19 virus; indirect impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns on physical health (through reduced activity) and mental health (through reduced social interaction and increased anxiety); impacts of subsequent labour market changes and cost of living pressures on health; and increases in NHS waiting times.

In addition, a number of behavioural factors are also likely to have contributed to higher numbers claiming incapacity and disability benefits, including: cost of living pressures; greater awareness of disability benefits (in part due to cost of living); longer waits for NHS treatment; economically inactive people being more likely to report long-term illness or disability as their main reason for inactivity; and incentives in the benefit system that can encourage people to claim health-related benefits.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_10
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_10

Victoria Collins:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps her Department is taking to help support (a) unpaid and (b) disabled carers in the context of her proposed changes to Personal Independence Payments. \p Sir Stephen Timms: Our recent Pathways to Work Green Paper announced a broad package of reforms which included changes to Personal Independence Payment. We will focus PIP more on those with the greatest needs, ensuring that those who are unable to complete activities at all, or who require more help from others to complete them, still get support.

For those who are affected by the new eligibility changes to disability benefits, including for linked entitlements such as Carer’s Allowance, we are consulting on how best to support this group, including how to make sure health and eligible care needs are met.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_11
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_11

Apsana Begum:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, pursuant of the Answer of 7 April 2025 to Question 42058 on Poverty: Children, whether her Department plans to make an assessment of the potential impact of changes to the uptake of Carer’s Allowance on (a) rates of poverty among carers, (b) carers’ labour market participation and (c) levels of demand for public services. \p Sir Stephen Timms: The proposals have been carefully designed to protect the most severely disabled people. For those who are affected by the new eligibility changes to disability benefits, including for linked entitlements such as Carer’s Allowance, we are consulting on how best to support this group, including how to make sure health and eligible care needs are met.

The Department published both an Equality Analysis of impacts alongside the Spring Statement. A further programme of analysis to support development of the proposals in the Green Paper will be developed and undertaken in the coming months.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_12
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_12

Helen Whately:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether her Department’s investigators can apply to police to have individuals suspected of committing fraud against the Department arrested. \p Andrew Western: Where appropriate, DWP can apply to the Police to undertake an arrest as part of a criminal investigation into suspected fraud.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_13
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_13

Martin Wrigley:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent discussions she has had with Big Brother Watch on the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill 2025. \p Andrew Western: The Department has extensively engaged a range of stakeholders on the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill.

This includes holding regular forums, which both Disability Rights UK and Big Brother Watch have attended, to provide stakeholders with the latest information on Bill measures and invite questions and feedback.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_14
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_14

Martin Wrigley:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if she will take steps to publish an updated impact assessment on the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill. \p Andrew Western: The Department published its Impact Assessment with the introduction of this Bill on the 22nd January 2025. It can be found here: ImpactAssessment.pdf.

The Department has committed to produce a further Impact Assessment for the Eligibility Verification Measure within 12 months of Royal Assent of the Bill. There are no plans to provide a further Impact Assessment of other measures in the Bill beyond usual procedures.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_15
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_15

James Naish:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether she (a) is taking and (b) plans to take steps to regulate hygiene standards within the (i) hairdresser, (ii) barber and (iii) beauty industries. \p Sir Stephen Timms: Businesses in the hair and beauty sector, which includes barber shops, hairdressers and beauty salons are required to comply with the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and associated regulations, which place duties on businesses to assess the risk of infection for employees and others affected by their work, including members of the public.

While Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has the policy lead for the hair and beauty sector, responsibility for enforcing health and safety legislation at individual businesses rests with the local authority where the premises are located.

Where there is evidence that risks are not being properly managed, local authorities are able to intervene and take appropriate enforcement action to ensure that employees and customers are protected.

Local authorities are also responsible for managing hygiene standards in businesses, but this is not within HSE’s remit.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_16
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_16

Apsana Begum:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the introduction of the four point requirement on a single descriptor on the daily living activities assessment criteria for Personal Independence Payments on affected people's (a) working life, (b) education, (c) health, (d) wellbeing and (e) human rights. \p Sir Stephen Timms: No estimate has been made. The information requested is not readily available and to provide it would incur disproportionate cost, as it would require a bespoke survey of claimants.

We are consulting on how best to support those who are no longer eligible for PIP and linked entitlements, including how to make sure health and eligible care needs are met.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_17
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_17

Apsana Begum:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what estimate she has made of the number of people who receive the Personal Independence Payment who have a terminal illness with a six month prognosis who will no longer be eligible following the introduction of the four point requirement on a single descriptor on the daily living activities assessment criteria. \p Sir Stephen Timms: We recognise that people nearing the end of their life are some of the most vulnerable people in society and need fast track and unqualified support at this difficult time.

People who claim, or an in receipt of, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and are nearing the end of their life with 12 months or less to live, will continue to be able to access the enhanced rate of the daily living component of PIP. We will also maintain the existing fast-track route under the Special Rules for End of Life and where claims are currently being cleared in two working days. This fast-track route will not be impacted by the new eligibility requirement for PIP.
wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_18
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-04-23)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-04-23 conversation_18

Lisa Smart:To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps her Department is taking to reduce call waiting times on the PIP helpline. \p Sir Stephen Timms: Telephony is our customers’ primary channel to contact us. We continually assess the number of calls we are receiving and the associated waiting times. Where we have been seeing higher call volumes, we have been deploying more of our available resource onto telephony and at times this has been up to 100% of that resource, whilst also balancing the need to complete necessary processing work. As a result, over the last month we have seen improvements with call wait times dropping by c30%.