theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_716
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_716

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the Local Transport Fund on journey times in the North East. \p Simon Lightwood: The Local Transport Fund was an unfunded commitment made by the previous government. As the Secretary of State has said publicly, her department will not be pursuing this scheme.

The North East receives local transport funding from the department, including from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS) and the Transport for City Region settlements (TCR). Mayors are responsible for identifying and delivering schemes that meet local priorities and align to the objectives of funding, including the benefits of these schemes.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_717
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_717

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what support her Department provides to local authorities to maintain bus routes with low commercial viability. \p Simon Lightwood: The Government is committed to delivering better buses throughout the country and wants to see an end to the decline in bus services we have seen in recent years. The Government introduced the Bus Services (No. 2) Bill on 17 December as part of its ambitious plan for bus reform. The Bill will put passenger needs, reliable services and local accountability at the heart of the industry by putting the power over local bus services back in the hands of local leaders right across England.

We know these plans need to be backed with funding and we have confirmed funding of £955 million for the 2025 to 2026 financial year to support and improve bus services in England outside London. This includes £712 million allocated to local authorities across the country of which the Tees Valley Combined Authority was allocated £7.2 million. Funding allocated to local authorities to improve services can be used in whichever way they wish to deliver better services for passengers. This could include subsidising services which are not commercially viable.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to investing in bus services long-term in this Spending Review. On 11 June, the Government confirmed additional £900m resource funding per year from 26/27 to maintain and improve bus services. Local transport authorities will find out their individual allocations from this funding in due course.

In addition, the Government continues to make available around £244 million each year (in 2025-26, rising to £249 million in 2026-27) to fund the Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) and BSOG Plus. The BSOG is paid to operators of eligible commercial bus services and community transport organisations to help keep fares down and run services that might otherwise be unsustainable. BSOG Plus was introduced in July 2023 to provide further support in maintaining services to eligible commercial operators.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_718
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_718

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to ensure that rail stations in the North East meet accessibility standards. \p Simon Lightwood: This government is committed to improving the accessibility of Britain’s railway and recognise the social and economic benefits this brings to communities.

In the North East, five Access for All projects have been undertaken, four of which are now complete, with one currently under construction. Nominations for future rounds of funding will benefit from strong industry support and a proportion of third party match funding.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_719
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_719

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with Tees Valley Combined Authority on transport priorities for the region. \p Simon Lightwood: My Department has allocated Tees Valley Combined Authority £978m through the Transport for City Regions settlements over the 5-year period from 2027-32. This is in addition to £310m allocated to Tees Valley via the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS).

My officials maintain regular engagement with Tees Valley Combined Authority, including a visit and strategic discussion with the CA in February 2025 which took place over two days and included in-depth conversations on the region’s transport priorities. A follow-up meeting between Mayor Ben Houchen and I was planned but had to be postponed at the Mayor’s request.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_720
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_720

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the level of effectiveness of e-scooter trials in reducing urban congestion. \p Simon Lightwood: E-scooters can offer an alternative means of transport to those who would usually drive a car, which could have a positive impact on reducing congestion.

Many of the benefits of e-scooters depend on mode shift. The first national evaluation of the e-scooter trials assessed various impacts, including mode shift, however this concluded in 2021.

That is why we have commissioned a second national evaluation of the e-scooter trials, due to conclude in May 2026. This evaluation will explore what journeys e-scooters are replacing; how they integrate with public transport; their safety for users and for others; and the accessibility impacts of e-scooters.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_721
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_721

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to ensure major infrastructure projects in the North East are delivered on time and on budget. \p Simon Lightwood: This government is investing significantly in the North East to improve transport connectivity and grow the economy.

Following the recent Spending Review, we announced funding for Nexus to develop an upgrade to the signalling system on the Tyne and Wear Metro and confirmed our continued support for the Tyne Bridge and Central Motorway scheme. These major schemes will be for local delivery, with the North East Mayor and local authorities responsible for ensuring they are delivered on time and to budget. My Department maintains close contact with local partners responsible for delivering these schemes. In addition, the North East and Tees Valley mayoral combined authorities receive funding to deliver local transport projects through various funds, including the City Region Sustainable Transport and Transport for City Regions settlements (CRSTS and TCR). The respective Mayors for these areas are responsible for ensuring delivery of these projects and report regularly into the Department on progress.

Furthermore, the North East will benefit from the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine scheme, which we recently confirmed we will be progressing. We will develop the delivery timetable as part of the process of setting the next Road Investment Strategy.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_722
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_722

Nadia Whittome:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate her Department has made of the long-term (a) economic, (b) environmental and (c) operational costs of pausing the next phase of the electrification of the Midland Main Line. \p Simon Lightwood: Midland Main Line electrification was considered as part of the Spending Review, which prioritised investment across all government spending, taking account of business cases and affordability. Continuing electrification to Nottingham and Sheffield is lower value for money, due to rising costs and as a consequence of the environmental and operational benefits already delivered through electrification of the route. Electrification between Kettering and Wigston was completed earlier this year and, together with enhancements south of Bedford, will enable the bi-mode intercity services being introduced by East Midlands Railway to operate using electric traction.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_723
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_723

Nadia Whittome:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to (a) improve rail capacity and (b) reduce railway-related emissions in the East Midlands. \p Simon Lightwood: East Midlands Railway (EMR) will introduce new bi-mode Class 810 Intercity ‘Aurora’ trains with a phased rollout running through 2026. These new trains will support greener travel making use of the Midlands Main Line electrification between London and Leicester, significantly reducing emissions compared to the diesel Class 222 trains they replace. When fully operational the Class 810 trains will provide a 46 per cent increase in capacity to passengers through a combination of more seats and train carriages.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_724
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_724

Richard Foord:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of the difference in per capita bus funding between rural and urban areas. \p Simon Lightwood: The Government recognises that different areas have different characteristics and needs for their local bus network. The Government has committed to reforming bus funding to create a fairer and simpler system for bus funding that takes into account local needs.

The Government took the first step towards a fairer allocation system by using a formula to determine Local Authority Bus Grant allocations for 25/26 based on need, including population, the distance that buses travel, and the levels of deprivation. Under this formula, Devon County Council was allocated £11.6 million. This is an increase in funding compared to the £8.7 million allocated to the Council in equivalent funding under the previous Government in 24/25.

The formula used in 25/26 is an interim formula. We are currently reviewing this formula to ensure funding is allocated as fairly as possible, including engaging with stakeholders on any revisions.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_725
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_725

Lewis Cocking:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what consideration is being given to the needs of older people in the implementation of digital-only ticketing systems for public transport. \p Simon Lightwood: The Government is not responsible for all digital ticketing. However, when implementing any Government policy, due regard is given to the Public Sector Equality Duty and to protected characteristics, such as age, across all modes of public transport.

For those public transport systems, the Government is responsible for this includes the implementation of digital ticketing.

For public transport systems outside of Government responsibility, we are clear that consideration is needed to ensure greater uptake of smart ticketing does not result in digital exclusion, and those paying cash are still able to use transport services and are able to reap the benefits of discounted fares.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_726
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_726

Siân Berry:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 16 July 2025 to Question 66780 on Transport: Disability, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of supporting access panels to create a national network. \p Simon Lightwood: The Sustrans Transforming Mobility Report recommends that local leaders, who best understand their communities, use access panels to engage disabled people in shaping, reviewing, and monitoring transport policies and projects. Paid access panels are one potential method for ensuring meaningful involvement.

The government recognises that accessibility improvements require collaboration across national and local authorities, transport operators, and industry. Central to this effort is the voice of disabled people. For nearly 40 years, the Department for Transport has led by example, being advised by the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee, which mandates that at least half its members are disabled.

More broadly, the government is committed to making public transport more inclusive, enabling disabled people to travel safely, confidently, and with dignity. As part of this commitment, it is working with disabled people’s organisations, service providers, and stakeholders to develop an Accessible Transport Charter. This charter will set out clear, shared commitments based on the principles of accessible and inclusive travel.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_727
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_727

Siân Berry:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will publish an update of recent progress in meeting the objectives of the second cycling and walking investment strategy. \p Simon Lightwood: The latest National Travel Survey figures published on the 27th August revealed that in 2024 43 percent of short journeys in towns and cities were walked or cycled; 339 walking stages were walked per person; the estimated total number of cycling stages was 0.94 billion stages and 51% of children aged 5 to 10 reported usually walking to school.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_728
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_728

Mr Will Forster:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to help tackle overcrowding on the 18:00 South Western Railway service from London Waterloo to (a) Woking and (b) Portsmouth Harbour. \p Simon Lightwood: We are aware this service is the eighth busiest in the country. The Department are supporting South Western Railway (SWR) to reduce overcrowding. Once the new Arterio train fleet have been introduced on the SWR suburban network, SWR will have the opportunity to review the timetable to better match capacity to demand and also re-deploy trains onto London Waterloo to Woking/Portsmouth Harbour services.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_729
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_729

Mr Will Forster:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department has considered the recommendation of the Children’s Commissioner’s report entitled Growing up in a low-income family: Children’s experiences, published in July 2025, to provide access to free bus travel for (a) school age children and (b) care leavers up to 25. \p Simon Lightwood: The Government knows how important affordable bus services are in enabling young people to get to education, work and access vital services.

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) provides free off-peak bus travel to those with eligible disabilities and those of state pension age, currently sixty-six. The ENCTS costs around £700 million annually and any changes to the statutory obligations, such as expanding the eligibility criteria to include school students and care leavers up to age 25, would therefore need to be carefully considered for its impact on the scheme’s financial sustainability. However, local authorities in England have the power to offer concessions in addition to their statutory obligations, including to those aged 16 and under, and 17–18-year-olds in full-time education, as discretionary enhancements to the ENCTS. Additional local concessions are provided and funded by local authorities from local resources.

At present, the majority of bus services operate on a commercial basis by private operators, and any decisions regarding the level at which fares are set outside the scope of the government’s £3 bus fare cap are commercial decisions for operators. Bus operators can choose to offer discounted fares for young people, and in the year ending March 2025, youth discounts were offered by at least one commercial bus operator in 73 out of 85 local authority areas in England outside London.

As part of the Autumn 2024 Budget, the Government allocated £955 million to support and improve bus services in 25/26. This includes £712 million for local authorities, this can be used to expand services and improve reliability, which are currently massive obstacles for too many people. Surrey County Council has been allocated £12 million of this funding. Funding allocated to local authorities to deliver better bus services can be used in whichever way they wish to improve services for passengers, which could include introducing new fares initiatives to reduce the cost of bus travel for school-age children and care leavers.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_730
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_730

Mr Will Forster:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions her Department has had with the Treasury on the cost of a rollout of smart ticketing across newly nationalised routes. \p Simon Lightwood: We are overhauling the complex fares and ticketing system to make it easier for passengers to trust that they are buying the right ticket and getting the best fare. The rollout of smart ticketing solutions will play an important role in achieving this and improving the passenger experience.

We have committed to expanding Pay As You Go (PAYG) with contactless ticketing to further stations in the Southeast, with an additional 49 stations to be rolled out this year. Additionally, we have announced plans to launch PAYG in both Manchester and the West Midlands, expanding PAYG to more than 90 additional rail stations in 2026. Furthermore, digital pay as you go trials are part of plans to modernise our transport system. The first trial launched at the beginning of September in the East Midlands, with three remaining trials launching in Yorkshire from the end of September.

We are working closely with Train Operating Companies to deliver these projects, with public ownership and the move to Great British Rail (GBR) ensuring we are delivering for both passengers and taxpayers across the network.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_731
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_731

Alison Bennett:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of introducing a National NHS Railcard for Healthcare Staff. \p Simon Lightwood: There are no current plans to introduce an NHS Railcard in advance of the transition to Great British Railways (GBR), but GBR will have the opportunity to take a fresh look at the justification of the eligibility and restrictions of some railcards. Any long-term changes or concessions made to rail fares policy requires balancing against the potential impacts on passengers and taxpayers.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_732
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_732

David Chadwick:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of building a second Severn Tunnel or bridge specifically for rail services. \p Simon Lightwood: The strategic planning functions within Network Rail and Transport for Wales are considering the future capacity requirements of the South Wales Mainline. Their advice will be provided to the Wales Rail Board to inform the prioritisation of the government’s investment in Welsh rail services. Initial findings indicate that predicted future growth of services can be met through incremental upgrade of existing infrastructure.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_733
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_733

Mrs Elsie Blundell:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential potential impact of bridleways on supporting active travel in urban areas. \p Simon Lightwood: Decisions on measures to support active travel, including through the use of bridleways, are a matter for local authorities.

Active Travel England encourages local authorities to consult with local groups, such as equestrians, where any proposed active travel project involves the proposed use of a bridleway. This is appliable to both urban and rural areas.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_734
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_734

David Chadwick:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the Government plans to extend East-West Rail to (a) Cardiff, (b) Bristol and (c) Norwich. \p Simon Lightwood: East West Rail (EWR) is a new railway that will connect Oxford-Cambridge and cities and towns in between. The proposed service pattern on the line was set out in the EWR consultation in November 2024. There are key interchanges with major rail lines along the route and connections with long distance services will be subject to future decision.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_735
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_735

David Chadwick:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent assessment she has made of the potential merits of the development of a metro-style train service between (a) Cardiff, (b) Newport, (c) Bristol and (d) Bath. \p Simon Lightwood: There are no plans to change the existing train service between Cardiff and Bath which is operated by Great Western Railway (GWR). My officials are however in active discussions with Transport for Wales about the potential introduction of a new train service between West Wales and Bristol, which could also serve new stations along the South Wales corridor. The Department for Transport would need to be satisfied that any new service would be operationally robust and affordable for taxpayers.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_736
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_736

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of illegal e-bikes on levels of road safety. \p Simon Lightwood: Only e-bikes that are fully compliant with the requirements of the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle Regulations 1983 are legal to use on the roads. The Government agrees that the use of e-bikes that are not compliant with regulations has a negative impact on road safety.

The Government treats road safety very seriously, and is committed to reducing the numbers of those killed and injured on our roads. My Department is developing our Road Safety Strategy and will set out more detail in due course.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_737
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_737

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department is taking steps with Dorset Council to tackle the use of illegal e-bikes in West Dorset constituency. \p Simon Lightwood: E-bikes can only be legally used on the roads where they comply in full with the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle Regulations 1983.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency has a market surveillance unit and has the powers to act against retailers selling non-compliant e-bikes across the country, including in West Dorset.

Where such e-bikes are used on the roads, the police have powers to seize them. The powers for the police to act are being strengthened in the Crime and Policing Bill, so that the police will no longer be required to provide a warning before seizing any vehicle, including an e-bike, where it is being used anti-socially.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_738
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_738

Oliver Ryan:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department plans to provide additional funding to support repairs to the bridge on the Padiham Greenway walking and cycling route in Burnley; and how much funding her Department has provided to Lancashire County Council for walking, cycling and active travel in the last five years. \p Simon Lightwood: In December 2024, Sustrans was awarded £280,000 for the ‘NCN 685 River Calder bridge reinstatement’ construction scheme in the eighth tranche of National Cycle Network funding. Active Travel England will set out future allocations to Sustrans to upgrade and maintain the NCN following department business planning decisions later this year. Sustrans will then be responsible for setting out proposals on the optimum use of this funding across the NCN, which could include funding for repairs to the Padiham Greenway.

In the last five years, Lancashire County Council has received £10,589,933 in capital funding through the Active Travel Fund and £2,940,541 in revenue funding through the Capability Fund. In addition, the authority has been allocated £4,508,882 for 25/26 through the Consolidated Active Travel Fund.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_739
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_739

Lee Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, for what purposes their Department has used artificial intelligence in the last year. \p Hilary Benn: The Northern Ireland Office has used artificial intelligence in recent months to help us all work more efficiently by assisting with tasks like drafting emails, summarising documents and taking notes in meetings. The use of artificial intelligence aligns with our focus on using data and digital methods to deliver results and support the Prime Minister’s vision for the Civil Service.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_740
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_740

Adam Jogee:To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent engagement he has had with communities in Downpatrick, Co Down on community (a) safety and (b) cohesion. \p Hilary Benn: I speak regularly with people across Northern Ireland and am encouraged by the work of grassroots communities to support a safer, more cohesive and reconciled future for all. I have carried out over 100 visits to 16 constituencies across Northern Ireland since my appointment, including to South Down. I would welcome suggestions for future visits from Parliamentary colleagues.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_741
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_741

Mr Gregory Campbell:To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will have discussions with Invest Northern Ireland and the Minister for the Economy of Northern Ireland on inward investment opportunities following the golf Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club in July 2025. \p Hilary Benn: I continue to take every opportunity to promote investment into Northern Ireland, following the success of the golf Open Championship, and regularly engage with the Northern Ireland Executive and its relevant bodies to support a thriving, competitive and regionally balanced economy in Northern Ireland through increased investment and job creation to boost living standards.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_742
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_742

Mr Gregory Campbell:To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will have discussions with the US Consulate General in Belfast on how (a) heritage and (b) community groups in Northern Ireland can commemorate the 250th anniversary of the USA. \p Hilary Benn: The UK Government is keen to collaborate and provide support for work to celebrate the 250th anniversary of US Independence.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_743
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_743

Wendy Chamberlain:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of waiting times in distribution connections reform. \p Michael Shanks: Distribution-level projects can face significant connection delays, particularly if they could impact on the transmission network. The reformed transmission connections process, currently being implemented, should accelerate connections for many viable distribution-level projects. Furthermore, Ofgem has recently raised the threshold for distribution projects in England and Wales requiring a Transmission Impact Assessment from 1MW to 5MW, which should accelerate connections for connections below the new threshold.[1] More widely, Ofgem is reviewing the connections regulatory incentives and obligations applied to National Energy System Operator and network companies. This aims to reduce connection times where possible and improve customer service.[2]

The equivalent thresholds for Scotland are under ongoing review by the Scottish network companies.

[1] Decision to approve CMP446: 'Increasing the lower threshold in England and Wales for Evaluation of Transmission Impact Assessment' | Ofgem

[2] Connections end-to-end review of the regulatory framework | Ofgem
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_744
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_744

Graham Leadbitter:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if his Department will publish nuclear infrastructure modelling for nuclear projects in the UK. \p Michael Shanks: The Department conducts power market modelling using the Dynamic Dispatch Model (DDM). The DDM is a comprehensive fully integrated power market model covering the GB power market over the medium to long term. Analysis published using this model, such as Modelling 2050 – electricity system analysis - GOV.UK, has shown the importance of nuclear to obtaining low-cost low-carbon solutions to future electricity supply. The DDM has also been used to inform value-for-money assessments, such as the final investment decision on Sizewell C. Sizewell C: Value for money assessment - GOV.UK.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_745
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_745

Gregor Poynton:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what plans his Department has to work with housing associations and industry to scale up affordable and tenant-friendly retrofitting models to help meet the Government’s 2030 EPC target for social homes. \p Michael Shanks: The government is currently consulting on introducing minimum energy efficiency standards for the social rented sector. We will be engaging closely with the sector throughout the consultation process.

The Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund provides grant funding for social housing landlords to improve the energy performance of their properties through installing energy efficiency measures and low carbon technologies. Wave 3 of the fund, for which allocations were announced in March 2025, will deliver up to £1.29 billion of funding.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_746
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_746

Adrian Ramsay:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will review his Department's conversion factors for GHG reporting for (a) bioenergy and (b) WTT bioenergy in the light of the most recent remote sensing data from independent system(s) of Earth Observation measurements. \p Michael Shanks: I refer the hon Member to the answer given on 4 September to Question UIN 69532 which describes the review process used to update conversion factors. This includes for the conversion factors for bioenergy and well-to-tank bioenergy.

The UK is one of only a handful of countries currently reporting the validation of non-carbon dioxide greenhouse gas emissions based on atmospheric measurements. The National Inventory Steering Committee considers this information, alongside international review recommendations, emerging science, and external quality assurance of the inventory, when deciding priority areas of improvement to the inventory and, where relevant, resultant conversion factors.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_747
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_747

Mr Andrew Snowden:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the energy efficiency of (a) standard domestic radiator systems, (b) under floor heating, (c) infrared panels and (d) other low-temperature heating solutions. \p Michael Shanks: The energy efficiency of these products is covered within two ecodesign regulations, for ‘hydronic’ and ‘local’ space heating products. Work is ongoing to review the policy in respect of both regulations including assessing efficiency through market research and engagement with industry stakeholders.

Preliminary research has identified significant potential for energy efficiency improvements across these product types. We intend to consult on proposals to reform local space heating regulations in due course. We consulted on proposals to increase the efficiency of hydronic space and combination heaters earlier this year and will publish a government response soon.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_748
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_748

Connor Naismith:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department plans to (a) abolish and (b) reform standing charges for (i) gas and (ii) electricity bills. \p Michael Shanks: The Government knows that, for many consumers, too much of the burden of the bill is placed on standing charges. We are committed to lowering the cost of standing charges and have worked constructively with the regulator, Ofgem, on this issue. Ofgem has conducted a broad public consultation to understand the views of consumers on this issue, receiving over 5,000 responses on their 2024 discussion paper. Since then, Ofgem has been continuing work in two areas.

Firstly, Ofgem has been working to ensure that domestic consumers can choose tariffs with low or no standing charges. Ofgem took a further step towards this goal on 24 July, announcing proposals to require suppliers to offer their customers low or no standing charge tariffs from early 2026.

Secondly, Ofgem has been reviewing how ‘fixed’ costs, which tend to be funded through standing charges, should be recovered in the future energy system. This includes whether those fixed costs could be recovered in more progressive ways, and we are working closely with the regulator on this. Ofgem published its Cost Allocation and Recovery Review on 30 July.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_749
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_749

Lee Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what was his Departments total spend on international climate finance in each of the last 3 years. \p Michael Shanks: DESNZ ICF supports global clean energy deployment, protects the world’s forests and leverages private investment at scale to help mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s total spend on International Climate Finance (ICF) over the last 3 years is:

DESNZ ICF spend

Financial Year

£394.9m

2024/25

£311.1m

2023/24

£350.2m

2022/23
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_750
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_750

Tom Morrison:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential merits of providing financial support for pensioners in single-person households who have higher per-person energy costs than those in households with more than one person. \p Michael Shanks: The Government knows that more needs to be done to support vulnerable households which are struggling with bills whilst we transition to clean power. The Department’s Warm Home Discount (WHD) 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.

The Warm Home Discount regulations expire in 2026, and we will want to consider all options for future bill support beyond this point. In the interim, 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 is working closely with other Government Departments to unlock the data that will enable us to more effectively target support to those who need help with their energy bills.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_751
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_751

Adam Jogee:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential link between overheating homes and the risk of death. \p Michael Shanks: DESNZ will publish the Warm Homes Plan in October to help people find ways to save money on energy bills and upgrade our buildings into comfortable, low-carbon buildings fit for the future.

The Department has been carrying out research to respond to the relevant climate change adaptation risks from overheating to health and wellbeing and the energy system. This research is closing evidence gaps identifying the buildings most vulnerable to extreme heat and where these are located and groups of people most vulnerable to heat stress. We are continuing to undertake further research as well as appropriate adaptation solutions for these different building types. This work is informing the development of the Warm Homes Plan.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_752
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_752

Tom Morrison:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he made a comparative assessment of Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers with and other hydrogen (a) storage and (b) transport methods to inform the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan. \p Michael Shanks: The Government continues to review the range of potential hydrogen carriers, including liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs), and their role in the long-distance transport, storage and trade of hydrogen. Our ongoing assessment highlights the need for further research, demonstration and learning from deployment in order to optimise carrier options, whilst ensuring environmental and safety concerns have been fully considered and mitigated. This assessment will help to inform the potential of hydrogen carriers in enabling hydrogen deployment and their contribution to delivering the infrastructure needed to unlock hydrogen’s role in clean power, providing new home-grown energy and good jobs in our industrial heartlands.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_753
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_753

Luke Taylor:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he plans to bring the gas purchased for community heat networks under the energy price cap set by Ofgem. \p Michael Shanks: Heat network operators typically buy their energy through commercial contracts. As the energy price cap has been designed for domestic electricity and gas customers, it could not be applied to the price of energy purchased on the wholesale market.

DESNZ and Ofgem continue to monitor the heat network sector and to consider actions that could improve price deals available to heat network operators.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_754
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_754

Mr Toby Perkins:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the Answer of 3 March 2025 to Question 31833 on Mineworkers' Pension Scheme, when he expects discussions with Mineworkers' Pension Scheme trustees to conclude on the future of the surplus sharing arrangements. \p Michael Shanks: The then Minister for Industry (Sarah Jones) met the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme Trustees in April and July to discuss their proposals and the analysis we had jointly commissioned. The Government is keen to reach agreement with the Trustees as swiftly as possible on changes to take effect from the September 2026 scheme valuation.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_755
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_755

Gregor Poynton:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of modern, low-disruption retrofit techniques on the rate of decarbonisation of the UK’s social housing stock. \p Michael Shanks: The Department places significant importance on the tenants needs, and complying with consumer protection standards when completing retrofit works.

The Department takes an iterative approach to schemes - such as increasing the provision of modern low carbon heating technologies under the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Wave 3 – and conducts robust evaluation of delivery. These findings, such as in the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Wave 2.1 Process Evaluation report (available here), highlight delivery successes and challenges, and enable the adoption of new techniques.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_756
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_756

Josh Newbury:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of battery enabled boilers could make on decarbonising domestic heating in smaller homes. \p Michael Shanks: Heat batteries, sometimes referred to as ‘battery enabled boilers’, can utilise time-of-use tariffs and do not require outside space; however, they are less efficient than heat pumps. Heat batteries could meet the needs of some smaller homes, however if they do not have sufficient storage capacity they could draw electricity at peak times, adding burden on the electricity network and increasing energy bills.

Government will continue to review our position on heat batteries, as the supporting evidence base develops, including considering evidence from the Homes for Net Zero project.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_757
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_757

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what support is available for hotels in West Dorset constituency to transition to more energy-efficient (a) heating and (b) cooling systems. \p Michael Shanks: The Government is working with local government, businesses, and the private sector to develop options to ensure our commercial buildings are thermally efficient, clean and affordable to run with a clear, practical path to meet Net Zero. We are supporting a pilot for hospitality businesses with Zero Carbon Services to help hospitality SMEs reduce carbon and energy bills. And the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers businesses grants of £7500 towards the cost of purchasing and installing heat pumps, and £5000 towards a biomass boiler, to replace their existing fossil fuel systems.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_758
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_758

Dr Rupa Huq:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether an agreement to link the UK and EU Emissions Trading Schemes will be in place before the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism comes into force on 1 January 2026. \p Michael Shanks: At the UK-EU Summit on 19 May, both sides agreed in the Common Understanding to work towards establishing a link between their respective carbon markets by way of an agreement linking the United Kingdom Emission Trading Scheme (UK ETS) and the European Union Emission Trading System (EU ETS).

The UK is looking to secure a linking agreement with the European Union as fast as is feasible. We are taking forward preparations at pace and look forward to beginning negotiations.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_759
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_759

Andrew Bowie:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his Department’s policies of Viaro Energy controlling 5 per cent of the UK’s total gas production. \p Michael Shanks: DESNZ is unable to comment on the specifics of any individual project or the investment decisions of individual operators while the regulatory process is underway. This is a matter for the North Sea Transition Authority.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_760
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_760

Dr Luke Evans:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will (a) raise the progress of OFGEM's Consumer Confidence Review and (b) determine a clear timetable for the Review to conclude with published findings and recommendations at his next meeting with OFGEM. \p Michael Shanks: Ofgem have kept the Government updated on the progress of the review and the timetable for publication, and the findings of the review are due to be published shortly.

DESNZ Ministers regularly meet with Ofgem, including to discuss progress on key Ofgem initiatives such as its Consumer Confidence programme.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_761
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_761

Andrew Bowie:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his Department’s policies of Shell and ExxonMobil’s divestments in the North Sea. \p Michael Shanks: DESNZ is unable to comment on the specifics of any individual project or the investment decisions of individual operators while the regulatory process is underway. This is a matter for the North Sea Transition Authority.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_762
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_762

Mr Joshua Reynolds:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to strengthen the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for properties; and what discussions he has had with (a) industry stakeholders and (b) property owners to help ensure successful delivery. \p Michael Shanks: Department officials have worked closely with industry on the implementation and design of the policy to ensure the policy is fair and proportionate for landlords and tenants alike. This includes multiple workshops this year with these stakeholders to update the policy to significantly reduce complexity and administrative burdens.