theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_158
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_158

Mr Andrew Snowden:To ask the Solicitor General, how many prosecutions for hate crimes have the CPS commenced in each of the last 12 months; and how many and what proportion of these prosecutions resulted in conviction. \p Lucy Rigby: In the year to December 2024 the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorised the charging of a total of 11,777 suspects in hate crime flagged cases with 87.4% of legal decisions resulting in a suspect being charged.

The below table provides a breakdown of the monthly charge volumes and rate for 2024.

24-01

24-02

24-03

24-04

24-05

24-06

24-07

24-08

24-09

24-10

24-11

24-12

Suspects Charged

852

888

891

937

911

859

1,010

1,429

974

1,039

1,005

982

Charge Rate (% of all legal decisions)

85.5%

86.4%

85.8%

88.1%

87.6%

86.5%

85.8%

91.7%

86.7%

85.1%

88.3%

88.9%

Over the same period the CPS has prosecuted 14,657 defendants of which 12,614 were convicted, giving a conviction rate of 86.1% for the 2024 calendar year.

The below table provides a breakdown of the monthly completed prosecutions and convictions for 2024.

24-01

24-02

24-03

24-04

24-05

24-06

24-07

24-08

24-09

24-10

24-11

24-12

Completed Prosecutions

1,183

1,112

1,092

1,116

1,255

1,102

1,222

1,419

1,283

1,462

1,325

1,086

Convictions

1,015

976

919

970

1,069

931

1,039

1,257

1,108

1,259

1,140

931

Conviction Rate (%)

85.8%

87.8%

84.2%

86.9%

85.2%

84.5%

85.0%

88.6%

86.4%

86.1%

86.0%

85.7%

The volume of prosecution outcomes for a period differs from the volume of pre charge decisions for the same period. Where the pre charge decision is to bring charges many cases will only reach a conclusion in a later period. This will vary according to the outcome type: for example, the legal process is longer where a case is contested or sent to the Crown Court and tried by jury.

Further information can be found in quarterly data published on the CPS website: CPS quarterly data summaries | The Crown Prosecution Service.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_159
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_159

Apsana Begum:To ask the Solicitor General, If she will publish the redacted sections of her Department’s email to Israel’s Deputy Ambassador entitled CPS/SO15 contact details, published in April 2025. \p Lucy Rigby: It has been routine under successive governments for the Attorney General’s Office to help embassies get in contact with the relevant prosecuting authorities for the purposes of sharing information that could be relevant to a case. Freedom of information requests are considered on a case-by-case basis, and information is disclosed in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 2000.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_160
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_160

Apsana Begum:To ask the Solicitor General, pursuant to the Answer of 20 December 2024 and Question 19848 on Arms Trade: Israel, if she will take steps to centrally record how many people have been charged with offenses relating to protests against Elbit Systems UK's arms sales to Israel since (a) 8 October 2023, (b) 26 January 2024 and (c) 2 September 2024. \p Lucy Rigby: Between October 2023 to September 2024, the Crown Prosecution Service charged 142,221 suspects which reached a first hearing at the magistrates’ court. To determine which offences involved defendants who were taking part in a protest against Elbit Systems UK would require a manual review of each case, which would be at disproportionate cost.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_161
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_161

Mr Andrew Snowden:To ask the Solicitor General, whether the Crown Prosecution Service uses information about recorded non-crime hate incidents in deciding whether to (a) bring charges and (b) recommend bail conditions. \p Lucy Rigby: All factual matters material to a criminal sentence must be admitted by the offender or proven in a court to the criminal standard using admissible evidence. By definition, the recording of a previous incident as “non-crime” is unlikely to meet that standard.

The Code for Crown Prosecutors sets out the general principles a prosecutor must apply when making a decision as to whether there is sufficient evidence, and whether it is in the public interest, to authorise criminal charges against a suspect. The Crown Prosecution Service has published guidance on bail, the focus of which is on ensuring that the Court is provided with the relevant information to enable it to come to a proper decision as to whether or not to grant bail, with or without conditions. This will be fact specific to the circumstances of the alleged offence and the defendant. The administrative police recording of an earlier incident or allegation, which has previously been determined not to have been a crime, is unlikely to have any relevance to the question of bail.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_162
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_162

Lola McEvoy:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what progress his Department is making on the rollout of 5G in Darlington. \p Chris Bryant: In their Connected Nations Spring update, published 8 May 2025, Ofcom reports that 5G (combined standalone and non-standalone 5G) is available outside almost 100% of premises in the Darlington constituency from at least one mobile operator, but this falls to 11% from all four operators.

Our ambition is for all populated areas, including Darlington, to have higher quality standalone 5G by 2030. Where mobile network operators rollout 5G is a commercial decision but I am working closely with the mobile operators to drive up improvements in mobile infrastructure and we are committed to ensuring we have the right policy and regulatory framework in place to support investment into mobile networks and competition in the market.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_163
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_163

Cat Eccles:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if he will take legislative steps to regulate AI. \p Feryal Clark: Most AI systems are regulated at point of use by our existing regulators, and a range of rules already apply to AI systems, like data protection and competition legislation. That’s why, in response to the AI Action Plan, the Government committed to working with regulators to boost their capabilities.

However, advanced AI systems pose distinct opportunities and risks. This is why the Government intends to bring forward AI legislation, to deliver on our manifesto commitment and ensure we can safely realise AI’s potential for economic growth and progress. We will launch a consultation on legislative proposals later this year.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_164
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_164

Steve Yemm:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on levels of alignment between the (a) planned Life Sciences Sector plan, (b) planned 10-Year Health plan, (c) Industrial Strategy and (d) National Cancer Plan. \p Feryal Clark: The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology has worked closely with Cabinet colleagues, including the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, to ensure alignment between the NHS’s 10-Year Health Plan, the Life Sciences Sector Plan, and the broader Industrial Strategy. This collaboration has involved joint policy development to maximise the impact of these initiatives on both public health and economic growth. These efforts will support improved health outcomes across a range of areas, including cancer. This includes contributing to the aims of the National Cancer Plan through continued investment in research, innovation, and data infrastructure.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_165
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_165

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of the level of energy consumption required by artificial intelligence services. \p Feryal Clark: The Government recognises that AI is a technology with significant energy demands.

DSIT is working closely with industry to understand and forecast the future energy requirements of AI, noting that it is a rapidly evolving technology.

Through the AI Energy Council, we are collaborating with DESNZ and relevant energy stakeholders to ensure our energy system is prepared to meet the needs of AI.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_166
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_166

Marsha De Cordova:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what recent steps his Department has taken to improve community access to media literacy education. \p Feryal Clark: The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology is improving community access to media literacy through the Digital Inclusion Action Plan, which supports local and community-led initiatives to boost digital participation. Libraries, as trusted and accessible public spaces, play a key role in delivering digital and media literacy support to communities across the UK.

DSIT also works closely with Ofcom, which engages civil society and community organisations as part of its role as the online safety regulator.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_167
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_167

Anna Gelderd:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, whether he has made an assessment of the potential impact of poor digital access on levels of financial exclusion among women living in rural areas. \p Chris Bryant: The Government published its Digital Inclusion Action Plan in February 2025, which outlines the first five actions we are taking over the next year to boost digital inclusion in every corner of the UK, including rural areas. We recognise the financial impact digital exclusion can have on many different groups including women and men living in rural areas.

These will be targeted at local initiatives for boosting digital skills and confidence, widening access to devices and connectivity, and getting support to people in their own communities so everyone can reap the benefits of technology.

More widely, HM Treasury is developing a Financial Inclusion Strategy to address the barriers consumers can face in accessing the products they need. This includes a focus on digital inclusion and access to banking and the Digital Inclusion and Skills Unit in DSIT is working closely with HM Treasury to ensure appropriate coordination.

The Government recognises the importance of ensuring everyone has access to the banking services they need and is working closely with industry to roll out 350 banking hubs across the UK which will provide cash access and a range of face-to-face banking services.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_168
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_168

Gideon Amos:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if he will hold discussions with Connecting Devon and Somerset and Airband on its planned timetable for publishing its connection schedule. \p Chris Bryant: Building Digital UK (BDUK) is in regular contact with Airband and Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS) in relation to the finalisation of the remaining contracts under the earlier Superfast Broadband Programme. Airband and CDS will publish the latest timeframes for build across the Taunton and Wellington constituency, with the overall contracts expected to be completed in full by Autumn 2027.

CDS is responsible for delivering these contracts and any queries about specific delivery areas and timescales should be directed to CDS.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_169
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_169

Marsha De Cordova:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, pursuant to the Answer of 25 June 2025 to Question 60089 on Artificial Intelligence: Copyright, when he plans to publish a response to his Department's consultation on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence. \p Feryal Clark: The Government is currently reviewing over 11,500 responses to the consultation on copyright and AI and will publish its response in due course.

In addition, as set out in the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, the Government has committed to providing a progress report to Parliament by 18 December, and publishing an economic impact assessment, and report on the use of copyright works in the development of AI systems, by 18 March 2026.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_170
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_170

Martin Wrigley:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if he will allocate funding to research on the (a) reliability and (b) auditability of non-deterministic models of AI used in national security issues. \p Feryal Clark: AI offers the most powerful lever we have for national renewal; it underpins the Government’s plan to drive economic growth, transform public services, and boost living standards for working people across the country.

During the recent Spending Review, the Government showed its commitment to delivering the AI Opportunities Action Plan (AIOAP), with the Chancellor confirming over £2 billion to implement the Plan, and up to £750m for a new Edinburgh supercomputer, which will support our understanding of this emerging technology.

More widely, the government is investing record levels of investment in R&D, growing to £22.6 billion per year by 2029/30. Through UKRI, we are supporting science and innovation across the UK to better deliver on the government’s priorities, including national security.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_171
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_171

Andrew Gwynne:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, how many times has their Department accepted in full the position of the Parliamentary Ombudsman’s (a) findings and (b) recommendations on (i) issuing an apology and (ii) other forms of redress in the last 10 years. \p Feryal Clark: The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology does not keep records of or track all the findings and recommendations made by the PHSO.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_172
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_172

Dame Harriett Baldwin:To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the UK–India Free Trade Agreement on his Department. \p Feryal Clark: The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) worked closely with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and other relevant departments to ensure that the UK–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) supports the UK’s strategic objectives in science, technology, and innovation. The FTA will complement and bolster ongoing cooperation with India on science and technology through the Science and Innovation Council and the Technology Security Initiative.

The FTA includes an innovation chapter, which will allow the UK and India to enhance existing collaboration in research and development. The digital trade chapter will also drive innovation and support emerging technologies through UK-India collaboration, maximising the benefits to both, including through trade. The telecommunications chapter will support fair competition, market access, and regulatory cooperation within the telecommunications sector. A full impact assessment of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement will be published at signature.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_173
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_173

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what estimate his Department has made of the value of trade between the UK and Tuvalu in each year since 2020. \p Georgia Gould: The information requested falls under the remit of the UK Statistics Authority.

A response to the Hon gentleman or lady Parliamentary Question of 26th June is attached.

Letter from the National Statistician (pdf, 98.0KB)
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_174
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_174

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 12 June 2025 to Question 54833 on DCMS: Equality, whether his Department has issued guidance on employing Standalone EDI roles. \p Georgia Gould: The Civil Service Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Expenditure Guidance, published on 14 May 2024, sets out a number of controls in relation to Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) spend and activity across the Civil Service, including: Standalone EDI staffing roles should be incorporated into broader HR.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_175
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_175

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to the planning application submitted to Westminster City Council on 19 May 2025, reference 25/03467/CLLB, what the nature is of the internal alterations being made to 70 Whitehall; and what the budget is for the works. \p Georgia Gould: As part of the ongoing refurbishment works on the 4th Floor of 70 Whitehall, the Cabinet Office has submitted an application for the installation of a ceiling within the southern lift shaft. The total budget for this work, including all fees and VAT, is £280k.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_176
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_176

Sir John Hayes:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how much his Department spent on equipment for civil servants to work from home in each of the last three years. \p Georgia Gould: The requested information is not centrally held, and complying with this request would incur a disproportionate cost to the department.

Heads of departments have agreed that 60% minimum office attendance for most staff continues to be the best balance of working for the Civil Service, as was the case under the previous administration.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_177
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_177

Lisa Smart:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps he is taking to ensure that there is no gap between the end of the term of office of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman and their successor. \p Georgia Gould: Paula Sussex has been appointed Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO). Arrangements are now in place, meaning all casework can progress as normal.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_178
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_178

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 4 June 2025 to Question 54806 on Disaster Relief and Emergencies: Equality, for what reason the Risk Vulnerability Tool uses gender rather than sex. \p Ms Abena Oppong-Asare: The Risk Vulnerability Tool will use data that relates to both sex and gender, depending on data availability, alongside other vulnerability indicators.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_179
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_179

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 4 June 2025 to Question 54806, on Disaster Relief and Emergencies: Equality, if he will publish the documentation on the Risk Vulnerability Tool. \p Ms Abena Oppong-Asare: A Quality and Methodology Information report on the Risk Vulnerability Tool will be published, as is usual for government statistics.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_180
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_180

Mike Wood:To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether the National Security Adviser is (a) secretary of the National Security Council, (b) head of the National Security Secretariat and (c) Principal Accounting Officer for the Single Intelligence Account. \p Ms Abena Oppong-Asare: The role of secretary to the National Security Council is fulfilled by the Deputy National Security Advisers. The Executive Deputy National Security Adviser is the corporate head of the National Security Secretariat. The Cabinet Secretary is the Principal Accounting Officer for the Single Intelligence Account.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_181
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_181

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the Answer of 17 June 2025 to Question 58273 on DESNZ: Aviation, if he will publish details of his domestic travel since 5 July 2024. \p Michael Shanks: Details of internal domestic flights are not published.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_182
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_182

Rachael Maskell:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to help increase the number of jobs in the renewable energy sector. \p Michael Shanks: Meeting the UK’s Clean Energy Superpower Mission and delivering Clean Power by 2030 are vital to enhancing our economic and energy security whilst driving economic growth across the country. This transition will create tens of thousands of opportunities across the sector, from renewables to upgrading the UK’s grid infrastructure.

The Government is backing this ambition with major investment. Over the next three years, over £100 million will boost engineering skills in England. Working with Skills England, this investment will grow the talent pipeline through education, apprenticeships, and new Technical Excellence Colleges. Supported by the Skills Mission Fund, these colleges will tackle engineering shortages critical to the clean energy sector. DESNZ estimates that the offshore and onshore wind sectors could support up to 145,000 direct and indirect job across Great Britain by the end of the decade.

In 2025, DESNZ will publish a full Clean Energy Workforce Strategy, setting out further actions to ensure that the workforce needed for clean energy delivery is in place, and that the jobs created across the country are high-quality, inclusive, and long-term.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_183
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_183

Dame Harriett Baldwin:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the UK–India Free Trade Agreement on his Department. \p Michael Shanks: The UK and Republic of India concluded talks on their free trade agreement (FTA) on 6 May.

The FTA includes a standalone environment chapter that supports the UK’s Clean Energy Superpower Mission, transition to Net Zero and climate goals. It promotes trade in green goods needed to deliver clean power and could boost UK clean energy exports, as well as strengthening cooperation on clean energy. It reaffirms commitments to the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement and recognises the right of the UK to regulate in pursuit of our ambitious climate and environment goals. Finally, the FTA will commit both countries to strive to uphold strong levels of environmental protection, and to not waive their environmental laws to encourage bilateral trade or investment.

The Department for Business and Trade will publish a formal Impact Assessment of the UK-India FTA in due course. This will provide estimates of the economic impacts of a trade deal with India, including estimates of the sectoral, regional and environmental impacts.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_184
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_184

Chris Hinchliff:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of its proposed exemptions for certain industrial users from (a) Feed-in Tariffs, (b) Renewables Obligation Certificates and (c) the Capacity Market ion levy costs for other industrial, commercial or domestic consumers. \p Michael Shanks: The government is looking to fund this support by bearing down on levies and other costs in the energy system, alongside revenues from the strengthening and expansion of carbon pricing.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_185
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_185

Mike Reader:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions his Department has had with industry representatives on the development of consumer-led flexibility in electricity markets. \p Michael Shanks: Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_186
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_186

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many office desks are allocated to staff in GB Energy; and how many staff are employed by GB Energy. \p Michael Shanks: Great British Energy will be headquartered in Aberdeen, Scotland, recognising the expertise, skilled workforce, and diversity of projects already in place. In the interim, Great British Energy is headquartered in DESNZ’s second headquarters in Aberdeen, Crimon Place, to ensure the organisation can get to work as quickly as possible.

A total of 39 staff are currently working on the setup of Great British Energy. That number is set to increase when the organisation is fully operational.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_187
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_187

Sarah Gibson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the document entitled The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy, published on 23 June 2025, if he will publish a clean energy investment plan for non-urban areas. \p Michael Shanks: The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has set out clear plans to support the development of clean energy infrastructure via the Clean Power Action Plan and the Spending Review. For example, we are making deployment easier, including the Planning & Infrastructure Bill, introduced on 11 March 2025, which is streamlining the planning process to fast-track critical projects. Additionally, we're transforming the electricity grid, its biggest overhaul since the 1960s, by building new capacity ahead of need and reforming outdated connection processes.

The Government is also seizing the growth opportunities of the clean energy transition—central to the Modern Industrial Strategy and the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan. This sets out the frontier industries where the UK has the greatest potential to boost manufacturing, innovation, and associated services. This will create good jobs across the country, including in our industrial heartlands and rural areas.

The Department will also publish a Clean Energy Workforce Strategy in 2025 to ensure high-quality, long-term jobs across the UK. Through Office for Clean Energy Jobs, we are delivering Regional Skills Pilots in clean energy hubs like Lincolnshire and Pembrokeshire, helping local partners grow the skilled workforce needed for the transition.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_188
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_188

Mr Richard Holden:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to paragraph 2.97 of HM Treasury's publication entitled Spending Review 2025: Departmental Efficiency Plans published on 11 June 2025, what the evidential basis is that insourcing will drive down costs by 40 to 60 per cent. \p Michael Shanks: Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) will reduce its reliance on external consultants and contractors by building internal capability in key corporate functions. DESNZ benchmarking and commercial frameworks show external consultants and contractors typically attract significantly higher day rates in comparison to permanent staff. With targeted investment in skills, smarter talent deployment, and improved retention, the department can realise associated efficiencies of 40–60% in specific functions.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_189
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_189

Steve Darling:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of refusing new (a) oil and (b) gas developments at (i) Rosebank, (ii) Jackdaw and (iii) other potential oil and gas fields. \p Michael Shanks: Neither the Secretary of State nor I will be commenting on the specifics of individual projects such as Rosebank and Jackdaw in order to avoid potentially prejudicing any future regulatory decisions the Secretary of State is required to make in relation to these projects.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_190
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_190

James Naish:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate he has made of the potential impact of the expanded Warm Homes Plan on average annual household spending. \p Miatta Fahnbulleh: The recently announced expansion of the Warm Home Discount means all households where a person or their partner is named on the energy bill and is on a qualifying means tested benefit will be eligible for the £150 Discount. This will bring around 2.7 million households into the scheme – pushing the total number of households that will receive the discount next winter up to around 6 million.

We have not assessed the impact on average household spending. Further information on impacts can be found in the published Impact Assessment.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_191
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_191

Sarah Olney:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when he expects the UK will be ready to enter the carbon market linking the UK’s emissions trading scheme with that of the EU. \p Sarah Jones: The UK and the EU have agreed to work towards linking the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS) and EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) as announced at the Sumit on 19 May.

To that end the UK and the EU have agreed the parameters for linking agreement, which will be subject to upcoming negotiations. The UK is now working closely with the EU to agree a timetable for negotiations.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_192
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_192

Neil Duncan-Jordan:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, where the 12 new F-35 A jets will be manufactured. \p Maria Eagle: UK industry contributes approximately 15% by value of F-35 production, working with over 100 suppliers and supporting more than 20,000 jobs. Although final assembly of all F-35 aircraft takes place at Lockheed Martin's facility in Fort Worth, Texas, the UK plays a significant role in the programme through the manufacture of key components.

The rear fuselage and tail surfaces of every F-35 are manufactured in Lancashire; the ejection seats are manufactured in Middlesex; and core avionics and electronics systems are also produced throughout the UK.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_193
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_193

Lincoln Jopp:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the press release entitled UK to purchase F-35As and join NATO nuclear mission as Government steps up national security and delivers defence dividend, published on 24 June 2025, whether his Department plans to buy fewer F-35B aircraft. \p Maria Eagle: The Ministry of Defence will initially purchase 12 F-35A aircraft from within previously agreed F-35B purchase schedules. Future F-35 purchases will be reviewed as part of the Defence Investment Plan, which will conclude in the autumn.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_194
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_194

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what current air-to-air refuelling capability within the Royal Air Force will be used to refuel the new F-35A aircraft. \p Maria Eagle: We have longstanding reciprocal arrangements to use allies Air-to-Air refuelling support when required, just as our Voyagers also support refuelling of other allies' jets. Future national air-to-air refuelling options will be considered as part of the Defence Investment Plan, and in subsequent force development work.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_195
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_195

Liam Byrne:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 7 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, what the remit is of the new defence exports office; and when that office will be operational. \p Maria Eagle: With the creation of the National Armaments Group on 31 March 2025 and the transfer of Ministerial responsibility for defence exports to the Ministry of Defence on 31 July, Whitehall teams specialising in defence exports are being brought together for the first time. The new team will have responsibility for supporting defence exports, including supporting a new framework for an enhanced Government-to-Government mechanism to support defence exports.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_196
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_196

Helen Maguire:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will publish the (a) medical conditions that would exclude someone from joining the Armed Forces and (b) the specific disqualifying factors that would prevent a potential recruit from joining the (i) Army, (ii) Navy and (iii) RAF. \p Al Carns: Joint Service Publication (JSP) 950, Leaflet 6-7-7 sets out the medical employment standards for joining the Armed Forces. The latest edition was published in August 2024 following an intensive review undertaken by clinical experts, Defence personnel staff and the recruiting agencies.

I have placed a copy of JSP950 Leaflet 6-7-7 (August 2024) in the House of Commons library.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_197
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_197

Priti Patel:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether operations conducted by special forces will be subject to the notifications requirements of paragraph 2 of Annex 1 of the UK-Mauritius Treaty. \p Luke Pollard: As per longstanding Government policy, I can neither confirm nor deny information relating to UK Special Forces.

Annex 1, paragraph 2 of the Chagos Archipelago Treaty, once it has entered into force, will not require the UK to divulge sensitive information and will not require prior notification of any military operation.

Moreover, Article 3(2) of the treaty states that Mauritius cannot undermine, prejudice or otherwise interfere with the long-term, secure and effective operation of the military base on Diego Garcia, and that Mauritius shall cooperate to that end.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_198
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_198

Josh Babarinde:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what long-term funding her Department has allocated to facilitate (a) cycling and (b) walking in Eastbourne constituency. \p Simon Lightwood: On 12 February, the Department and Active Travel England announced local authority allocations of the Consolidated Active Travel Fund. Of this funding, East Sussex County Council has been awarded £1,110,557 in revenue funding for 2024/25 and capital funding for 2025/26. It will be for East Sussex County Council to allocate this funding in line with local investment priorities, including to support schemes in the Eastbourne constituency.

The Spending Review announced £616 million for active travel infrastructure from 2026-27 to 2029-30, Active Travel England will set out future allocations from this funding in due course.

The Government also announced a further £2.3 billion to local authorities through the Local Transport Grant (LTG). This funding will support local authorities to invest in their local transport priorities, including schemes to support walking and cycling. East Sussex County Council has been awarded over £22 million up to 2029/30 through the LTG.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_199
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_199

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the impact of regulation on small and medium-sized enterprises involved in the development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuel; and whether she plans to simplify relevant processes. \p Mike Kane: I refer the hon Member to the answer I gave on 23/06/2025, to Question UIN 60297.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_200
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_200

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of producing Sustainable Aviation Fuels on (a) UK energy security and (b) carbon emissions. \p Mike Kane: Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is one of the key ways to decarbonise air travel. We have a comprehensive plan in place for SAF. We have set ambitious targets in the SAF Mandate, are providing grant funding to support investment in a UK SAF industry and are working to deliver a Revenue Certainty Mechanism.

The Revenue Certainty Mechanism will encourage investment in the construction of SAF plants across the UK. Supporting domestic SAF production will ensure the UK is less reliant on imported SAF.

Government analysis suggests that the use of SAF could deliver up to 54 million tonnes of net additional CO2 savings in the UK by 2040. We will continue to monitor the potential impacts of SAF as the technologies and our policies develop.

There is nothing preventing the production of fuel from non-recyclable (‘black bin’) waste if this is determined, by local authorities or other waste producers, to be the best overall value for money and environmental outcome for such waste. The UK has a thriving competitive market for waste management services and new players are welcome to join the field. There are a range of recovery options - both established and emerging - available to waste handling operators, which will be selected according to market conditions and local needs, taking account of the waste hierarchy and the need to ensure the best available environmental outcome for the waste. We are working closely with Defra on this issue, including through the Circular Economy Taskforce.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_201
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_201

Sir Julian Lewis:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 30 June 2025 to Question 62523 on Shipping: Russia, if she will publish the instructions her Department has issued in respect of the (a) interception and (b) onboard inspection of vessels suspected of belonging to Russia's shadow fleet when in transit through UK waters. \p Mike Kane: I refer the Rt Hon Member to the answer I gave on 30 June 2025 to Question 62523. As a signatory of United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the UK Government adheres to international maritime law and protects the innocent passage of vessels transiting through UK waters.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_202
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_202

Mr Lee Dillon:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department is taking steps with National Highways to introduce speed enforcement measures at known accident hotspots on the A34. \p Lilian Greenwood: National Highways currently has no plans to introduce speed enforcement measures on the A34. National Highways deem the current speed limits on the A34 are appropriate. However, speed limits across the network are kept under review by National Highways.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_203
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_203

Mike Reader:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of reducing permitted weights for Volumetric Concrete Mobile Plants from 2028 on the manufacturing sector. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Department ran a call for evidence from October to December 2023 seeking views on three potential options on weight limits for Volumetric Concrete Mixers (VCMs). The outcome of this review was published on 18 March 2025 at the following link: www.gov.uk/government/calls-for-evidence/volumetric-concrete-mixers-review

VCMs will continue to be permitted on our roads. A temporary weight limit exemption for this type of vehicle (via vehicle special orders) that was put in place to allow operators and manufacturers time to adapt, will end in 2028, as planned. Existing VCMs will be able to continue operating, but only within the applicable weight limits.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_204
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_204

Sorcha Eastwood:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how many meetings of the Motor Insurance Taskforce have taken place; and when the next meeting will take place. \p Lilian Greenwood: The cross-Government Motor Insurance Taskforce met for the first time on 16 October 2024. It met most recently on 28 April 2025 and further meetings are being planned.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_205
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_205

Rupert Lowe:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, ⁠what guidance her Department has issued to local authorities on checking for overseas criminal records for prospective (a) taxi and (b) private hire vehicle licence holders who were born overseas. \p Simon Lightwood: The Policing and Crime Act 2017 enables the Secretary of State for Transport to issue statutory guidance to licensing authorities on exercising their taxi and private hire vehicle licensing functions to protect children and vulnerable adults. Statutory guidance was published in 2020 under these powers. This statutory guidance includes a recommendation that when an applicant has previously spent an extended period living or working overseas (3 or more continuous months), licensing authorities should seek or require applicants to provide where possible criminal records information or a certificate of good character from overseas.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_206
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_206

Freddie van Mierlo:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate her Department has made of the levels of noise pollution on roads (a) in Oxfordshire and (b) nationally. \p Lilian Greenwood: The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is responsible for creating noise maps as part of implementing the Environmental Noise (England) Regulations 2006. The Department for Transport has not therefore made its own estimates.

DEFRA’s latest round of noise mapping, published in October 2024, was undertaken using a new geospatial noise model to calculate noise exposure levels with a higher level of accuracy and coverage than ever before. The latest maps of road noise take into account all public roads in England and the details on road noise can be found online at https://www.data.gov.uk/dataset/6c7a54b5-bb79-4c90-923a-d3a33d0a3d9a/environmental-noise-directive-end-noise-mapping-agglomerations-england-round-2
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_207
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_207

Rupert Lowe:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what information her Department holds on the number of licensed (a) taxi and (b) private hire drivers who are foreign nationals, broken down by their country of origin. \p Simon Lightwood: The Department for Transport does not collect that data. Licensing authorities may hold this information as part of the application processes to prevent illegal working as taxi or private hire vehicle drivers.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_208
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_208

Rupert Lowe:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, ⁠what information her Department holds on the number of (a) taxi and (b) private hire drivers who have had their licences revoked due to a criminal conviction in the last 10 years. \p Simon Lightwood: All licensing authorities in England have a duty to ensure that any person to whom they grant a taxi or private hire vehicle driver’s licence is a fit and proper person to be a licensee and that they remain so throughout the duration of the licence. Licensing authorities make decisions based on “the balance of probability”, so when determining whether a driver remains fit and proper to hold a licence, a driver should not be given the benefit of doubt. If a licensing authority is only fifty percent certain as to whether a licensee is fit and proper, they should not hold a licence. The threshold used here is lower than for a criminal conviction (that being beyond reasonable doubt). This means that driver licences may be revoked even if any safety concerns do not result in a criminal conviction.

Since 27 April 2023, all licensing authorities in England have been required to use a national database to record instances where a taxi or private hire vehicle driver’s licence is refused, revoked or suspended because of safeguarding, road safety or equality concerns. The Department has published data about licensing authorities’ use of the database. Between 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024, 3117 revocations were recorded on the database.
wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_209
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-07-04)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-07-04 conversation_209

Rupert Lowe:To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what information her Department holds on the number of (a) unlicensed and (b) illegal taxi drivers operating in major cities. \p Simon Lightwood: The Department for Transport does not hold this data, as such vehicles are not operating within a legal framework.