Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Levelling-up Agenda in the North

13 September 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Ian Lavery Lab Blyth and Ashington

EducationEconomyHousingChildren & FamiliesEnvironment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Ian Lavery raised concerns about levelling-up agenda in the north in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The Member for Blyth and Ashington criticises the levelling-up agenda for not addressing long-standing social inequalities.
  • Lavery highlights the need to tackle issues such as child poverty, health disparities, and pensioner poverty.
  • The Minister outlines substantial investments through funds like the 4.8 billion Levelling-Up Fund to target underserved areas.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Ian Lavery Lab Blyth and Ashington

The Member for Blyth and Ashington highlights the inadequacy of the current 'levelling up' agenda, criticising it as mere rhetoric that does not address long-standing social inequalities. He emphasises the need to tackle issues such as child poverty, health disparities, education funding cuts, pensioner poverty, and environmental justice. Lavery stresses that levelling up should focus on removing barriers for less privileged communities rather than just pouring money into infrastructure projects.

Other contributors (1)
  • Luke Hall Lab Stockport

    Congratulates the hon. Member for Wansbeck on securing this debate and agrees that levelling up is crucial, highlighting the government's commitment to tackling regional disparities.

Government Response

Navendu Mishra

The Minister emphasises the government’s commitment to levelling up, focusing on ensuring opportunity is spread more evenly and investment targeted fairly across the country. He acknowledges significant regional disparities in education levels, life expectancy, and employment opportunities. The response outlines substantial investments through various funds such as the £4.8 billion Levelling-Up Fund and the Community Renewal Fund, targeting historically underserved areas with infrastructure upgrades and skill development initiatives. Specific projects in Blyth are highlighted, including regeneration efforts and investment in green energy sectors. The minister reiterates the importance of local leadership and devolution of powers to address regional imbalances effectively.

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