theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
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Mr Peter Bedford:To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department has considered the potential merits of cutting VAT for food and drink served in pubs, social clubs and brewery taprooms. \p Dan Tomlinson: The Government recognises the significant contribution made by hospitality businesses to economic growth and social life in the UK.

VAT is a broad-based tax on consumption, and the 20 per cent standard rate applies to most goods and services. VAT is the UK's second largest tax, forecast to raise £180 billion in 2025/26. Tax breaks reduce the revenue available for vital public services and must represent value for money for the taxpayer.

Where pubs incur VAT in producing the food they sell, this can be claimed back in the normal way, provided that they are registered for VAT. Businesses with a turnover below the £90,000 per year threshold may choose not to register for VAT, in which case they do not charge VAT on their sales and cannot reclaim it on their input costs.

HMRC estimate that the cost of a 5 per cent reduced rate for accommodation, hospitality and tourist attractions would be around £13 billion this financial year. If the scope were also to include alcoholic beverages, the cost would be approximately £3 billion greater.
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Mary Glindon:To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the proposed changes to the Employee Car Ownership Scheme on (a) VAT and (b) Vehicle Excise Duty receipts. \p Dan Tomlinson: At Autumn Budget 2024, the government assessed the expected impact of the proposed changes to Employee Car Ownership Schemes (ECOS) on the 1,900 medium and large companies within the motor manufacture and motor dealership industries.

That analysis suggested that while there may be changes in consumer behavior in response to the proposed changes to the ECOS, including a possible shift towards used vehicles, the overall impact on new car registrations and associated tax revenues was expected to be limited.

The costing and the tax impact and information note will be updated at a future fiscal event to reflect the six-month delay to the originally announced implementation date.
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Laura Kyrke-Smith:To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what is the number of unclaimed matured HMRC-allocated Child Trust Fund (CTF) accounts which are included within the total quoted in the HMRC press release on 30 September 2025 for all matured CTFs which have neither been claimed by their owners nor automatically transferred. \p Lucy Rigby: Information on Child Trust Funds is available in HMRC’s Annual Savings Statistics.

https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/annual-savings-statistics-2025

We cannot answer each element of the 2 questions as HMRC does not receive a breakdown of unclaimed matured Child Trust Fund accounts from providers. This means we can’t identify which CTFs have been HMRC allocated and transferred into ISAs, nor breakdown the figures shared in the press release on the 30th September.
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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether the Prime Minister has been consulted on whether Lord Mandelson will receive a severance payment. \p Chris Elmore: Lord Mandelson's withdrawal was subject to normal HR processes within the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to Question 338 of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Oral evidence: Work of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, HC 385, 3 November 2025, what the threshold is for the publication of severance payments. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Hon Member to Annex 4.13 of the Managing Public Money guidance, most recently updated by HM Treasury in June 2025.
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Mike Wood:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the answer of 20 October 2025, to Question 81874, on Diplomatic Service: Public Appointments, if Heads of Mission are appointed by open and fair competition; and what role does the Civil Service Commission play in the appointments of Ambassadors. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Hon Member to the oral evidence provided to the Foreign Affairs Committee on 3 November, where these issues were addressed at length.
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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will publish Lord Mandelson’s contract. \p Chris Elmore: It has not been the policy under any government to publish the employment contracts of individual members of staff.
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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the answer of 28 October 2025 to Question 84207 on Embassies, how many sites in the United Kingdom for premises of the Chinese Government have that consent; and in which locations. \p Chris Elmore: The current list of China's unconditionally accredited diplomatic premises is published in the London Diplomatic List, available on GOV.UK. The former Royal Mint site received conditional diplomatic consent in 2018, and this remains conditional on securing the necessary planning and listed building consents from the relevant authorities.
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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the answer of 5 November 2025 to Question 85832 on USA: Diplomatic Service, what work was undertaken when Lord Mandelson was Ambassador. \p Chris Elmore: Minor works were undertaken to the Embassy and Residence during Lord Mandelson's tenure as Ambassador.
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Gregory Stafford:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions she has had with her Turkish counterpart on the expulsion of Christian foreign workers under national security legislation. \p Stephen Doughty: Freedom of religion or belief is a priority for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and a fundamental right that we regularly discuss with our Turkish counterparts. We will continue to urge respect for religious freedoms, which are essential to the long-term health of Turkish democracy.
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Gareth Bacon:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, the dates of each occasion that (a) ministers and (b) officials engaged with Tufan Erhurman in the previous 12 months. \p Stephen Doughty: I met Tufan Erhurman on 7 March and spoke to him by phone on 25 June this year, as set out in the department's quarterly transparency data, in relation to Cyprus settlement and the UN 5+1 talks.
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Sam Rushworth:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether the interest accrued on the frozen £2.5 billion proceeds from the sale of Chelsea Football Club is intended to benefit the proposed foundation to support victims of the war in Ukraine; and what steps the Government is taking to ensure that no part of these funds benefits sanctioned individuals. \p Stephen Doughty: The Government is determined to see that the frozen proceeds, including the accrued interest, from the sale of Chelsea Football Club reach humanitarian causes in Ukraine. Restrictions imposed through UK sanctions laws will ensure that the proceeds do not benefit sanctioned individuals.
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Sir Iain Duncan Smith:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he plans to provide technical or financial assistance to support the establishment of the International Claims Commission and its associated compensation fund. \p Stephen Doughty: We are clear that Russia must be held accountable for its illegal actions in Ukraine. The UK is a founding member of the Register of Damage and Chair of the Conference of Participants, under the auspices of the Council of Europe. The process to establish a Claims Commission as the next stage in an international compensation mechanism is still ongoing. The UK has participated in all four rounds of negotiations and continues to actively engage.
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Sir Iain Duncan Smith:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has considered the practice of forced passportization in territories of Ukraine currently under Russian occupation. \p Stephen Doughty: It has been widely-documented that residents in Russia-occupied Ukrainian territories are being compelled to take Russian passports to access essential services such as healthcare, education and pensions, with those who refuse facing detention, deportation, and the loss of property rights. This is a clear breach of international humanitarian law, and we continue to condemn it in international fora, including the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and the UN.
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Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment her Department has made of the potential benefits to the UK economy from the Global Fund’s partnerships with British research institutions, including in relation to innovations in HIV prevention and malaria control referenced in the Written Statement HCWS1043 made on 11 November 2025. \p Chris Elmore: The Global Fund's partnerships with British research institutions have supported innovations such as long-lasting insecticidal nets, improved HIV prevention, antiretroviral therapies, and strengthened community-led responses. Such partnerships drive scientific advancement, support skilled employment, and reinforce the UK's leadership in global health, delivering benefits to both global health and the UK economy.
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Zarah Sultana:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether her Department has funded any non-governmental or media organisations in Venezuela since 2023. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided on 15 May 2025 to Question 50066. She can find details of all programmes supported in Venezuela on the GOV.UK Development Tracker (https://devtracker.fcdo.gov.uk/).
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Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the pre-deployment of UK military teams to the Turks and Caicos Islands ahead of Hurricane Melissa, and whether similar pre-deployment strategies will be adopted in future hurricane seasons. \p Chris Elmore: The UK military team pre-deployed to the Turks and Caicos Islands supported the disaster management preparations, response and recovery work as needed.

After Hurricane Melissa passed, HMS Trent redeployed to Jamaica. HMS Trent was equipped with humanitarian and disaster relief trained troops and crisis response equipment. It provided swift access to affected areas and the delivery of essential supplies, specialist recovery personnel, transport and damage assessments.

Similar pre-deployment strategies will be considered as part of response options in future hurricane seasons.
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Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the role the Global Fund will play in improving global surveillance systems for infectious diseases, including early warning capabilities for antimicrobial resistance and future pandemics; and how this aligns with the UK’s national health-security strategy. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Rt Hon Member to the answer provided on 1 September to Question 69322.
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Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the Written Statement of 11 November 2025 (HCWS1043) on the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, what assessment her Department has made of the UK’s ability to sustain previous levels of investment in multilateral health partnerships; and what analysis she has commissioned on the projected impact of this reduced fiscal envelope during the 2026–28 replenishment cycle on projected health outcomes. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 17 September to Question 72441.
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Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she has considered allowing British International Investment to borrow to invest. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided on 20 March to Question 38518.
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Steve Race:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department's policy paper entitled Healthy Women, Children and Newborns: A Coordinated Approach to Ending Preventable Deaths, published on 6 November 2025, what role the Child Nutrition Fund is playing in her Department’s updated approach to ending preventable deaths. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 18 November to Question 89032, which sets out the UK's approach to improving nutrition for women and children, including our role as a proud co-founder and Board member of the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF). The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has disbursed £16.7 million in total to the Child Nutrition Fund since its inception in 2020. Of this £13 million has been disbursed through the Child Nutrition Fund's match window, £1 million through the programme window and £2.7 million through the supplier window.
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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Pursuant to the answer of 5 November 2025, to Question 86049, on Official Residences: Repairs and Maintenance, whether his department holds records on the costs of (a) works, (b) fittings and (c) fixtures to the Ministerial residence in 1 Carlton Gardens since 4 July 2024. \p Seema Malhotra: The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) does not hold the specific information requested. The FCDO has a Facilities Management contract - awarded in 2018 - that provides services to its entire UK Estate, including the offices, meeting rooms, function rooms, residence and wider grounds at 1 Carlton Gardens. It is not possible to separate the costs of maintenance works on the residence from the rest of the property and in a number of cases from our other properties.
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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, How much his department has spent on alcohol in each month since July 2024, including those supplied by (i) invoice and (b) government credit card spending. \p Seema Malhotra: I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 28 October 2025 to Question 83336.
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Sir Andrew Mitchell:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she plans to press the United Nations Security Council to refer the situation in Myanmar to the International Criminal Court. \p Seema Malhotra: I refer the Hon Member to the answer provided in the House of Lords on 12 November in response to Question HL11464, which has been reproduced below for ease of reference:

The UK acknowledges the report and shares its concerns regarding human rights violations in Myanmar. We condemn the Myanmar military's airstrikes on civilian infrastructure. The UK is clear that no country should provide arms, funds, or fuel to the Myanmar military. We have implemented 19 sanctions packages since 2021, including 10 targeting aviation fuel imports.

We are clear that there must be accountability for the atrocities committed in Myanmar. The UK has provided £900,000 to the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar since 2021 and established the Myanmar Witness program to collect evidence of human rights violations. As penholder on Myanmar at the UN Security Council, we have convened four meetings this year to maintain international focus and press for accountability. We co-sponsored a Human Rights Council resolution in April and coordinated a joint statement in May calling for an end to violence.
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Neil O'Brien:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 28 March 2025 to Question 40312 on China: Diplomatic Service, how many staff in her Department have achieved Mandarin qualifications at (a) C1 and (b) C2 level under the CEFR scale in the past five years for which the latest data is available. \p Seema Malhotra: Almost 100 valid Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) qualifications in Russian are currently held at C1 level or above by FCDO staff, and almost 75 in Mandarin. Exam passes are valid for five years. Some staff may concurrently hold a valid C1 and C2 pass. As previously explained to the Hon. Member, these figures alone do not provide an accurate measure of FCDO staff language capabilities as staff may hold a non-FCDO language qualification or be a native speaker.
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Danny Kruger:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions she has had with her Indian counterpart on the social boycott against Christians in Andhra Pradesh; and what diplomatic steps she is taking to help protect that community. \p Seema Malhotra: The UK Government is committed to promoting and protecting the right to Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) for all. Our High Commission in New Delhi, along with our network of Deputy High Commissions, monitors the human rights situation closely. We also engage with civil society and faith leaders to support efforts to promote tolerance and respect between communities.
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Jess Asato:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether her Department has (a) implemented a domestic abuse policy for staff and (b) trained line managers to effectively respond to staff who are experiencing domestic abuse. \p Seema Malhotra: The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is committed to supporting employees who may be experiencing domestic abuse. We provide comprehensive guidance for employees and their managers, including how to identify abuse, actions colleagues and managers can take, and links to organisations offering advice and support. This guidance also addresses the actions of perpetrators and outlines how disciplinary measures would be implemented.

The FCDO has implemented a comprehensive Domestic Abuse Policy that applies to all UK-based and overseas staff, including those on loan or secondment. The policy sets out clear principles, definitions, and guidance to ensure appropriate support for affected employees. While mandatory domestic abuse training for all line managers has not yet been introduced, guidance and resources are available to help managers respond sensitively and appropriately. Dedicated Human Resources teams and wellbeing services provide specialist advice on handling disclosures and safeguarding staff. When the Cabinet Office training for managers is introduced, we will ensure strong engagement and uptake.
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Jim McMahon:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how many criminal cases were not prosecuted because the offender had diplomatic immunity broken down by nationality from 2015. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statement (HCWS1075) made on 19 November 2025 which sets out the serious and significant offences allegedly committed by those with immunity in the UK. We do not share details of individual cases.
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Sir Desmond Swayne:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she had had with her counterpart in Bangladesh on recent targeted attacks on St Mary’s Cathedral and St Joseph’s School in Dhaka; and what steps she is taking to help ensure the protection of Christians in Bangladesh. \p Seema Malhotra: We condemn all acts of violence in Bangladesh, including those on 7-8 November, and we regularly raise issues of justice, accountability and the protection of fundamental rights, including Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB), with Bangladesh's Interim Government.

In February 2025, the UK's Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders, discussed these issues on her visit to Bangladesh, and during her visit on 13-14 November, the Minister of State for International Development and Africa highlighted to Chief Adviser Professor Yunus the importance of democratic transition, human rights and reconciliation.

The UK's commitment to these issues is also reflected in our £27 million Collaborative, Accountable and Peaceful Politics programme in Bangladesh, which aims to protect civic space, foster inclusive dialogue and address tensions that can lead to violence.
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Iqbal Mohamed:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, when her Department will respond to the letter from the hon. Member for Dewsbury and Batley dated 1 October 2025. \p Seema Malhotra: I apologise to the Hon member for the delay. I can confirm that a response will be returned in the coming days.
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Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what progress her Department has made in supporting Sudanese civil society and political groups to prepare for a transition to civilian rule; and how that support is being coordinated with regional and international partners. \p Chris Elmore: As the Foreign Secretary said in her statement to the House on 18 November 2025, "it is crucial that ultimately we have a transition to a civilian administration in Sudan..." Our Special Representative for Sudan and officials in the UK regularly meet with a wide range of Sudanese civil society and diaspora groups to listen to their concerns and help to build an inclusive, united approach for transitioning to a civilian-led government once a lasting ceasefire is in place.
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Zöe Franklin:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to ensure that companies receiving contracts for border activity are not contributing to foreign conflicts that cause displacement. \p Seema Malhotra: The UK promotes high standards for private security companies through voluntary international regulation. We supported the drafting of the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers (2010) and the creation of the International Code of Conduct Association (ICoCA) in 2013 to oversee compliance. These initiatives ensure transparency, accountability, and due diligence, reducing risks that security providers contribute to conflict or displacement.
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Anneliese Dodds:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what work her Department is undertaking on atrocity prevention assessments for Sudan, including on Tawila, Kadugli and Bara. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Rt Hon Member to the statement made by the Foreign Secretary to the House on 18 November 2025. As the Foreign Secretary said, there is a need for "concerted action to pull the warring parties back from the brink, halt the RSF advances, and ensure a humanitarian truce that is at least long enough to get humanitarian aid in and civilians out."
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Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential implications of her policies concerning the reported murder of four Christians by Islamic State in Borno State on 11 November. \p Chris Elmore: I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided to question 85661 on 3 November 2025.
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Tim Farron:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions she has had with international counterparts on the protection of Christian women in Chibok, Nigeria. \p Chris Elmore: The UK condemns violence against civilians of all religions in Nigeria and regularly raises freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) with the Nigerian government. For example, on 11 November, the Minister for International Development and Africa discussed the importance of FoRB and the causes of intercommunal violence during a meeting with Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar. The UK remains committed to defending FoRB globally, with Nigeria a focus country under the new FoRB strategy.
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Rachel Blake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of imposing sanctions on people responsible for human rights violations in Myanmar. \p Seema Malhotra: I refer the Hon Member to the answer given on 11 June to Question 57613.
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Sir Iain Duncan Smith:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent discussions she has had with her Chinese counterpart on the ongoing transnational repression of the Falun Gong; and what steps she is taking to ensure their protection in the UK. \p Seema Malhotra: I refer the Hon. Member to the answer given to question 43452 on 09 April.
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Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether severance payments to heads of mission are exempt from Income Tax. \p Seema Malhotra: Payments made by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office are subject to the same HMRC tax rules as any other organisation, as set out here: https://www.gov.uk/termination-payments-and-tax-when-you-leave-a-job.
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Mr Angus MacDonald:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what steps her Department is taking to support cultural engagement with the Polish community. \p Ian Murray: I value the close cultural partnership we share with Poland and recognise the rich cultural offering the Polish diaspora brings to the UK, which sustains Polish language and traditions and facilitates cultural enrichment through cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions, supported by arms length bodies such as Arts Council England.

Since July 2024, The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded £346,427 across three projects that explore the history of, or directly engage, the UK's Polish population.

This year we have also supported the UK/Poland Season 2025, a programme of over 100 events taking place in both countries across 40 cities, linking institutions and people to collaborate in the visual arts, film and music. Events in Poland are organised and funded by the British Council, while in the UK they are led by the Adam Mickiewicz Institute, the Polish Cultural Institute, and the British Council.
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Anna Sabine:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of hosting the 2035 women's football world cup on the economy. \p Stephanie Peacock: The UK Government is working closely with the Home Nation Football Associations and the Devolved Governments to develop the UK-wide bid for the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup. As the largest single sport women’s event in the world, this tournament has the potential to generate significant socio-economic benefits, impact communities across the UK, and build on our world-leading reputation as a host of major events.

To illustrate, the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023 was estimated to have generated AUS$1.32bn for the economy in Australia and New Zealand. We are working closely with UK Sport, the FAs and Devolved Governments to assess the potential benefits of hosting to inform our collective bid.

Following confirmation that the UK would be the sole bid for 2035, our bid is due to be submitted by the end of November, with a final decision by FIFA expected in April 2026.
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Mr Louie French:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, pursuant to the answer of 28 October to question 83435, on Gambling: Taxation, if she will set out a timeline for publishing the Terms of Reference for the Levy Board and Advisory Group. \p Ian Murray: The Department intends to publish the Terms of Reference for the Gambling Levy Programme Board and the Gambling Levy Advisory Group before the end of the year.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

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Mr Louie French:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, pursuant to the Answer of 3 November to question 84964 on Gambling, what steps she is taking to ensure that her department uses (a) impartial, and (b) accurate data, and commissions (i) impartial, and (ii) accurate data on gambling harms. \p Ian Murray: The Government recognises the importance of using impartial, accurate and up-to-date statistics on gambling behaviour and harms. We are committed to ensuring that policy decisions are guided by the best available evidence from a broad range of reliable sources.

Developing impartial and accurate evidence on gambling-related harms is a key priority for the statutory gambling levy. That is why 20% of funding will be directed towards high-quality, independent research to fill gaps in the evidence base, which will be used to inform policy related to tackling gambling-related harm.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_160

Mr Louie French:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, pursuant to the answer of 3 November to question 84965 on Gambling, what assessment she has made of the accuracy of the statistical analysis in the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities' report entitled The economic and social cost of harms associated with gambling in England published on 11 January 2023; and if she will exclude it from use within her Department. \p Ian Murray: The report that the Honourable Member refers to estimates the economic and social costs of gambling-related harm and provides a useful addition to our evidence base. As we have previously set out in a number of gambling-related impact assessments, we recognise that the report has limitations relating to both data availability and methodology, which means that the cost estimates may be under- or over-estimating the true cost of harm. This is true of many reports that try to estimate the cost of harm. However, we continue to consider this report in the context of the wider evidence base, and as such have no plans to exclude it from use in the Department.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_161

Neil O'Brien:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, how many people have been employed by the (a) Charity Commission and (b) Gambling Commission in each year since 2005. \p Ian Murray: Information regarding employment levels at the Charity Commission and Gambling Commission is included in each public body’s annual report and accounts. These are published annually on GOV.UK.

The average number of employees in each year since 2005 is detailed in the following table:

Financial Year

Charity Commission Full-Time Equivalent

Gambling Commission Full-Time Equivalent

2024-2025

440

416

2023-2024

471

373

2022-2023

471

336

2021-2022

464

310

2020-2021

418

335

2019-2020

373

340

2018-2019

332

342

2017-2018

301

322

2016-2017

312

307

2015-2016

310

290

2014-2015

319

268

2013-2014

310

224

2012-2013

320

211

2011-2012

375

211

2010-2011

442

220

2009-2010

483

230

2008-2009

488

238

2007-2008

493

222

2006-2007

514

175

2005-2006

540

102
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_162

Sir John Hayes:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, how many (a) single sex and (b) gender neutral bathroom facilities her Department provides in its main Whitehall building. \p Ian Murray: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s main Whitehall building is 100 Parliament Street, housed within the Government Offices Great George Street (GOGGS). GOGGS is managed by the Government Property Agency (GPA) on behalf of the departments which occupy the building. It has 201 single sex cubicles, 80 urinals and 2 non-gendered universal toilets (individual self-contained lockable toilet rooms which contain a toilet, washbasin and hand-drying facilities). This is in addition to 40 wheelchair accessible toilets.

These figures come from an audit carried out by the GPA and therefore reflect the facilities across both 100 Parliament Street and 1 Horseguards Road.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_163

Charlotte Cane:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what recent discussions she has had with stakeholders on the potential merits of extending the Listed Places of Worship Scheme beyond March 2026. \p Ian Murray: The Minister for Heritage and her officials have had numerous conversations with stakeholders about the Listed Places of Worship scheme. The scheme is funded until March 2026 or when the budget is spent, whichever is earlier.

The future of the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme after March 2026 will be announced when the outcome of the Spending Review and business planning processes have completed.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_164

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of non-regulated large-scale prize draws on (a) the National Lottery and (b) society lotteries. \p Ian Murray: This Government recognises that prize draws are a significant and growing market, and we want to ensure that people who participate in prize draws are confident that proportionate protections are in place.

Independent research was commissioned in 2023, which provided the Government with firm insights into the prize draws sector and included a section on the impact on the lottery industry. This led to the announcement earlier this year of the intention to introduce a Voluntary Code for prize draw operators which was published on 20 November 2025.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_165

Anneliese Dodds:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, whether her Department is partnering with youth organisations to develop media literacy resources. \p Stephanie Peacock: As the lead department for media literacy, DSIT is committed to improving media literacy through coordinated cross-government work. The Government aims to improve media literacy through cross-government collaboration, educational initiatives and collaboration with Ofcom, civil society, and online platforms.

DCMS has recently funded the National Youth Agency to develop Digital Youth Work Standards to promote the adoption of best practice in digital youth work across the sector. This includes training sessions on digital literacy for youth workers.

We are developing a National Youth Strategy which will set out a new long-term vision for young people, and an action plan for delivering this. We will publish the Strategy later this year.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_166

Jim McMahon:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what is the total number and value of artwork owned by the UK government is in the national collection which is (a) on public display (b) in storage (c) loaned to organisations, institutions or individuals in the UK (d) loaned to organisations, institutions or individuals outside the UK. \p Ian Murray: Please note that not all artworks owned by the UK government are in the Government Art Collection. 15,118 artworks are in the Government Art Collection (GAC). 8,250 of these are on display in public exhibitions and across the Government’s global estate. These works are seen by hundreds of thousands visitors each year, promoting British art and contributing to cultural diplomacy in over 125 countries. 6,868 are not currently on display; of these some will be awaiting conservation and many will be reserved for a display or exhibition loan. 156 artworks are currently on loan to public exhibitions in the UK and 23 are on loan to public exhibitions outside of the UK.

Under the new government the Government Art Collection has radically expanded its public engagement programme, sharing more of the artworks with communities through partnerships and by participating in local, national and international events. In 2025 the Collection was shown in Bradford for I AM ME, an exhibition curated by 125 young people seen by 22,000 visitors. In 2026 over sixty works will be shown at The Box in Plymouth, selected and co-curated by a group of young people. Since July 2024, 62% more artworks have been loaned from the GAC to public exhibitions.

An estimated value of the Collection cannot be provided. Like other national collections, the GAC is not normally commercially insured nor treated as a financial asset. Against a background of constant fluctuations in the art markets, current valuations of every work of art in the Collection cannot be maintained. By governing legislation the national collections held by DCMS-sponsored museums are held in trust for the nation by trustees, not owned by the Government.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_167

Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of hosting games in UEFA Euro 2028 on the West Midlands; and how much Government funding will be allocated to support (a) infrastructure, (b) security and (c) legacy activity linked to Villa Park as a tournament venue. \p Stephanie Peacock: With four matches due to be played at Villa Park, hosting UEFA EURO 2028 games in the West Midlands will help to deliver on the government’s mission to boost economic growth by creating jobs, driving regional prosperity and encouraging visitors to the region.

As part of the UEFA EURO 2028 tournament launch on 12 November 2025, the government announced it is investing up to £557 million into hosting the tournament, which will generate significant socio-economic benefits of £3.2 billion across the UK. The government’s investment will ensure the tournament is safely and securely delivered, with fans, players and officials having a positive experience. We are working closely with a number of partners across the UK and Ireland to ensure we host an outstanding tournament. As part of our investment, the UK Government will also contribute £23 million towards a wider commitment from Government and Football Partners to a social impact fund of around £45 million.

Regular financial updates on the allocation of government funding will be provided in the lead up to the event, including via the DCMS Annual Report and Accounts.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_168

Wendy Morton:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what proportion of the Legacy and Impact Fund will be spent in the West Midlands; and on what legacy programmes for grassroots sport, community cohesion and youth participation. \p Stephanie Peacock: It is great that Birmingham is a host city, and Villa Park is a brilliant venue. As part of the UEFA EURO 2028 tournament launch on 12 November 2025, the government announced it is investing up to £557 million into hosting the tournament, which will generate significant socio-economic benefits of £3.2 billion across the UK.

As part of this funding, the UK Government will contribute £23 million towards a wider commitment from Government and Football Partners to a social impact fund of around £45 million. The UK Government is working in close collaboration with host cities, including Birmingham, to ensure that we deliver a safe and successful tournament that benefits the whole of the UK.

Plans for the legacy and impact fund are still in development. We will have more to share on this in due course.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_169

Sarah Coombes:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what estimate she has made of the number of people (a) suffering problem gambling and (b) at risk of problem gambling in the most recent year for which data is available. \p Ian Murray: The Government is acutely aware of the impact that harmful gambling can have on individuals and their families.

We recognise the importance of using impartial, accurate and up-to-date statistics, in the context of the wider evidence base, to inform policy and regulatory decisions. A number of studies have looked at this issue. This includes the Gambling Commission’s recent Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB) 2024 annual report which highlighted how approximately 2.7% of adults in Great Britain had a score of 8+ on the Problem Gambling Severity Index.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-11-25)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-11-25 conversation_170

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, whether the appointment of David Kogan as Independent Football Regulator Chair required the Prime Minister's approval. \p Stephanie Peacock: No. The Football Governance Act (2025) sets out in Schedule 2, Part 2, that in relation to the Board of the Independent Football Regulator “the non-executive members are to be appointed by the Secretary of State”. In this case the decision to appoint the Chair was delegated to the Minister for Sport.