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Private Sector Investment: Lancashire
17 June 2026
Lead MP
Maya Ellis
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
EconomyTransportBusiness & TradeLocal Government
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Maya Ellis raised concerns about private sector investment: lancashire in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Maya Ellis, the MP for Ribble Valley, raised concerns about the lack of Government support and funding for businesses in Lancashire. She highlighted that despite being a £40 billion GVA powerhouse and having a dynamic project pipeline with potential to attract over £20 billion in additional investment, Lancashire faces significant challenges such as low growth in investment spending since 1998, lacking mayoral arrangements, and missing out on collective £200 million per year available to new mayoral areas. She urged the Government to support key initiatives like Samlesbury enterprise zones, Fhunded project, RedCAT Catapult, and to fast-track towards a mayoral combined authority.
Foster
Con
South Ribble
Supported the idea of devolution for Lancashire.
Ashley Dalton
Lab
West Lancashire
Highlighted the need for better connectivity and transport infrastructure in West Lancashire.
Jonathan Hinder
Con
Pendle and Clitheroe
Suggested a second bridge around Preston to create a ring road, addressing traffic congestion issues.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the importance of Lancashire's economy and its industrial heritage. He highlighted Government support for sectors like advanced manufacturing, defence, and energy, mentioning specific projects such as the Typhoon deal at BAE Warton and Samlesbury, and nuclear power developments at Springfields and Heysham. The Minister also noted investments in infrastructure, including £215 million of investment via the local transport grant to help councils deliver transport improvements. He committed to working with Lancashire MPs to ensure continued growth and investment, underlining the Government's commitment to support private sector development through initiatives like the 'Lancashire Growth Plan'.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.