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BUSINESS, ENERGY AND INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY
08 November 2016
Lead MP
Rob Marris
Q1
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyTaxationTransportClimateNorthern IrelandBrexitEnergyBusiness & Trade
Other Contributors: 125
At a Glance
Rob Marris raised concerns about business, energy and industrial strategy 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:
Government Response
EconomyTaxationTransportClimateNorthern IrelandBrexitEnergyBusiness & Trade
Government Response
The minister provided detailed responses on various aspects of innovation, infrastructure investment, local content requirements in energy projects, and the importance of dovetailing each infrastructure project. Responded to various questions regarding infrastructure investment with Northern Ireland, rail electrification concerns by liaising urgently with the Department for Transport, counterfeit goods issues by outlining consumer protection measures and national consumer week focus on faulty electrical goods. Also responded to manufacturing sector post-Brexit uncertainty, highlighting engagement with sectors across the economy to understand priorities and inform negotiating strategy. Addressed steps taken for innovation and research in science. Government ministers responded to concerns about funding for scientific research, supported the Cheshire science corridor initiative, addressed questions regarding carbon monoxide alarm standards, and discussed plans related to the Swansea bay tidal lagoon project. They also outlined initiatives supporting business growth post-Brexit. Responded multiple times on economic development initiatives including oil and gas industry support, talent retention strategies, tax regime improvements, small business encouragement, infrastructure upgrades, and clean energy initiatives. Has made substantial progress across all responsibilities since the creation of his department, including confirmation of Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, ratification of Paris agreement on climate change to keep global temperature rise below 2° C. Acknowledges Russell Group universities concerns post-Brexit; highlights plans to ensure scientific excellence and innovation are central to industrial strategy. Confirms intention to engage Members and organisations outside parliament in discussions over months ahead for a broad consensus around an enduring industrial strategy.
Rob Marris
Q1
Asked the Minister to discuss fractures reported at Hunterston B nuclear power station.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Asserted that safety of operating nuclear reactors is regulated by the independent Office for Nuclear Regulation, which ensures that Hunterston B remains safe to operate. He mentioned an ongoing review into Areva’s components used in Hinkley Point C.
Highlighted concerns about the safety of Hinkley Point C given past issues with French company Areva's reactor components and raised questions regarding assurances for future safety at Hinkley Point C.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Responded to concerns about Areva’s reactor components by stating that the ONR is conducting an independent review, ensuring lessons from Flamanville are applied to Hinkley Point C.
Inquired about steps his Department is taking to promote innovation in both regions and nationally.
Emphasised the importance of innovation as part of their industrial strategy, including investment in science, funding through Innovate UK, and research and development tax credits.
Expressed gratitude for his answer and highlighted local achievements in patents. He requested that measures should extend into rural areas fully utilising the talents of people there.
Congratulated constituents on their achievement and assured that measures are being taken to support innovation across all regions, including through innovations audits.
Nicholas Dakin
Lab
Scunthorpe
Asked the Government what they are doing to support research and development in the steel industry, especially a metals and materials catapult.
Acknowledged the importance of innovation for the future of steel. He stated that in the capabilities review being funded and accelerated, issues will be addressed.
Mark Pritchard
Con
The Wrekin
Invited the Minister to visit Marches local enterprise partnership to discuss engagement with Europe for innovation.
Agreed to visit and stated that LEPs play a significant role in making sure there is engagement and trade with Europe as part of the industrial strategy.
Asked if there will be a level playing field across regions and nations, and whether his Department was having talks with devolved Administrations regarding innovation.
Asserted that skills and upgrading the skills base must remain fundamental to success. He assured Owen of high-level engagement with devolved Administrations.
Highlighted a company in his constituency that builds hydroelectric pumps, supporting renewable energy generation, and asked for encouragement of these technologies.
Agreed on the potential of generating electricity through natural resources like water. Emphasised the importance of being cost-conscious at this moment in time.
Chi Onwurah
Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Called for an industrial strategy that invests in innovation to deliver sustainable growth, contrasting it with a race-to-the-bottom approach highlighted by the Sheffield Hallam University report.
Acknowledged the importance of placing innovation at the heart of their industrial strategy and highlighted job creation under previous governments as well as manufacturing productivity increase compared to the rest of UK economy over the past 10 years.
Ian Lucas
Q4
Asked what steps are being taken to increase infrastructure investment outside the south-east.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Provided details of significant infrastructure investments made across UK, including £5 billion allocated through growth deals and City and Devolution Deals committing over £8 billion to areas outside London.
Highlighted the success of businesses in north-east Wales and requested for investment support based on these companies' confidence in the area.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Agreed to visit the area, highlighting government's support for strategic industries across different regions of UK.
North Cotswolds
Asked if each infrastructure project should dovetail with another due to the announcement that parts of west coast main line might not be electrified until 2024.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Acknowledged point but stated these issues need round consideration, with provisions in current structure allowing for sharing of visions and investment potential across areas.
Asked about measures taken to assess, monitor, and impose penalties if local content commitments made by the Government were not met in energy projects like offshore wind.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Stated that government has a rigorous assessment process for local content and invited her to write to Department if any instances are known where this is not followed up.
Asked about the Great Western railway parts deferred, seeking support from Minister in changing mind of Department for Transport.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Championed interests of LEPs he is responsible for and expressed willingness to meet MPs from south-west region, although could not speak for Secretary of State.
Margaret Ritchie
SDLP
Fermanagh and South Tyrone
Asked the Minister about discussions on infrastructure investment with devolved regions and the Chancellor in advance of the autumn statement.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Stated that he had meetings with Invest Northern Ireland and the Minister for the Economy in Northern Ireland, and mentioned ongoing conversations. Noted responsibility of colleagues regarding devolved Administrations.
Asked about rail electrification on the midland main line north of Kettering and expressed cross-party support for this scheme, which has a high ratio of investment to benefits. Noted it was the third question about rail electrification.
Carolyn Harris
Lab
Neath and Swansea East
Asked what steps the Department is taking before Christmas to prevent counterfeit and substandard electrical goods from being sold, and further inquired if measures could be introduced in the Digital Economy Bill to help prevent such incidents.
Agreed with Carolyn Harris about safety concerns but added that cheap products from back-street traders were not only unsafe but also discouraged research and development by firms.
Toby Perkins
Lab
Chesterfield
Expressed concern that British manufacturers could be undercut by cheap imports from overseas if standards slipped after leaving the EU, asked about measures to ensure fair treatment of domestic manufacturing.
Pointed out that since the referendum, manufacturing has already gained an advantage due to a fall in the value of the pound making exports cheaper and imports more expensive.
Barry Sheerman
Lab
Huddersfield
Described the current state of manufacturing post-Brexit as causing turmoil with no clear Government policy or preparation, predicting potential loss of markets in Europe without replacements.
Alan Mak
Con
Havant
Asked for continued support for high-value manufacturing catapult centres to protect innovation and competitiveness in the future post-Brexit.
Inquired about an assessment of freight charging in other countries for exporting manufactured goods to see advantages for Northern Ireland and regions.
Jack Dromey
Lab
Birmingham, Erdington
Welcomed the end of uncertainty for Nissan workers but highlighted wider concerns over millions of workers' future and businesses holding back from investment due to Brexit uncertainty.
Nicky Morgan
Con
Loughborough
Asked about steps taken by the Department to encourage innovation and research in science, specifically in relation to a bid for Charnwood campus to become a life sciences opportunity zone.
Reassures the House about the Government's interest in life sciences opportunity zones and commitment to science research and innovation, emphasising engagement with the concerns of the science community.
Angela Eagle
Lab
Wallasey
Raises concerns about the impact of Brexit on UK science funding and integrated innovation budgets. Asks for reassurance from the Minister regarding plans to address these issues.
Enquires about Government support for the Cheshire science corridor initiative, highlighting its importance as part of the northern powerhouse strategy.
Questions the plans to make compliance with BS EN 50291 safety standard mandatory for carbon monoxide alarms and asks for measures to stop substandard detectors being sold in the UK.
Responds that compliance with the carbon monoxide detector safety standard is not yet mandatory. She commits to discuss the issue further with relevant departments.
Inquires about the future of the Swansea bay tidal lagoon project, stressing its importance for renewable energy and economic growth in Wales.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
States that an independent review will consider the viability of the tidal lagoon technology before any decision is made on proceeding with the project.
Supports the idea that the Swansea bay project could be a pathfinder for future larger and more cost-effective lagoons, contributing to the UK's energy mix.
Stephen Kinnock
Lab
Aberafan Maesteg
Presses for an early decision on the Swansea bay tidal lagoon project as a critical step in supporting the British steel industry and promoting renewable energy.
Questions whether the Government will support the Swansea bay tidal lagoon project, highlighting its benefits to the UK economy and energy mix.
Calls for urgent approval of the Swansea bay tidal lagoon project, emphasising its potential economic and job creation benefits in Wales.
Asks what steps have been taken to develop a long-term strategy for business growth since the UK's decision to leave the EU.
Questions about urgent action being taken by the Government to prevent job losses and financial market infrastructure loss due to Brexit-related issues.
Responds that the UK is creating a business environment supportive of growth through various initiatives, including tax cuts, investment in infrastructure, and support for science and innovation. Also mentions efforts to attract global talent post-Brexit.
Callum McCaig
SNP
Na h-Eileanan an Iar
Promoted the aviation and automotive sectors as future growth areas but also highlighted the importance of oil and gas industry, including its supply chain. Asked the Secretary of State to consider oil and gas in his industrial strategy.
Acknowledged the strength of the UK's oil and gas industry and stated that they will continue to build on it for future competitiveness.
Callum McCaig
SNP
Na h-Eileanan an Iar
Emphasised the importance of talent attraction and retention, especially EU nationals in sectors such as oil and gas, food and drink, and financial services. Questioned if protection would be given to EU nationals during Brexit discussions.
Confirmed that people from the European Union who are currently residing here will continue to stay after leaving the EU and highlighted the importance of discussing UK residents overseas' rights.
Peter Aldous
Con
Bury St Edmunds
Addressed tax issues affecting oil and gas industry in the North Sea, leading to difficulties for new investments. Asked for proposals to be brought forward in the autumn statement.
Acknowledged progress made with the Treasury on ensuring a competitive tax regime for the UK continental shelf, stating that this will continue.
Clive Lewis
Lab
Norwich South
Called for more long-term strategic thinking and support for businesses through Brexit. Questioned if all companies would receive similar treatment to Nissan in terms of support.
Disagreed with the Labour MP's approach, stating that promoting Britain as a good place to do business is important and that he will be vigorous in this role.
Mark Pawsey
Con
Rugby
Asked about steps being taken by his Department to increase opportunities for small businesses.
Reported on the commitment of providing finance through British Business Bank and doubling of small business rate relief. Mentioned plans to promote Small Business Saturday.
Mark Pawsey
Con
Rugby
Expressed concerns about shortage of industrial accommodation for start-ups and small businesses in Rugby.
Encouraged the MP to contact Coventry and Warwickshire LEP regarding support for expanding businesses looking to move premises.
Stephen Timms
Lab
East Ham
Asked about Government's plan to support small businesses through Brexit, given that 82% of exporting small businesses export to other EU member states.
Reiterated the UK’s top ranking for ease of doing business and mentioned efforts to ensure this status post-Brexit.
Seema Kennedy
Con
Layton
Invited Minister to join her on Small Business Saturday to launch small business competition. Asked about Department’s support for the event.
Accepted the invitation and encouraged MPs to contact their LEPs regarding local events for Small Business Saturday.
Bill Esterson
Lab
Sefton Central
Called for learning from US President Obama's success in government, which could improve quality and value for money while supporting growth of small firms and rebalancing the economy.
Agreed with the need to invest more in support for SMEs, affirming that this is an intention within her Department.
Kevin Hollinrake
Con
Thirsk and Malton
Asked about steps taken by his Department to support growth of businesses in the north of England. Specifically asked for infrastructure upgrades due to upcoming projects on A64.
Stated that meetings will be held and investments through local enterprise partnerships will continue to support economic development.
Kate Green
Lab
Westminster North
Raised concerns about Ofgem's decision on embedded benefits for local generators, affecting businesses in north-west England. Asked for consultations before changes are introduced.
Discussed the need to contain costs for consumers when it comes to energy decisions, including those that affect bills.
Edward Argar
Con
Melton and Syston
Inquired about steps being taken by his Department to ensure increased use of clean and reliable energy sources. Pressed for a swift decision on the future of Swansea Bay tidal lagoon project.
Stated commitment to upgrading energy infrastructure, phasing out coal, and committing to new nuclear and renewables through contract for difference auctions. Pledged to consider decisions seriously on tidal power projects.
Iain Wright
Lab
Houghton and Sunderland South
Noted the UK's decline in renewable energy attractiveness index ranking, citing Government actions and Brexit as factors. Asked about steps being taken to secure energy confidence and investment for sector flourishing.
Nick Hurd
Con
Refutes the previous point by mentioning that UK's renewable energy investment has more than doubled in the past five years to £9 billion annually, highlighting significant progress under current government.
Steve Double
Con
Requests a meeting with the Minister to discuss the Government’s support for developing geothermal energy in Cornwall and invites him to visit.
Nick Hurd
Con
Confirms that he supports the development of geothermal energy in Cornwall, stating that he has already written back positively on this matter.
Alan Whitehead
Lab
Questions the Department's delay in launching a consultation regarding the closure of all unabated coal generation by 2025 as announced previously, suggesting reconsideration or administrative delays.
Nick Hurd
Con
Responds positively to the question, confirming that the Department is committed to transitioning from coal to clean energy and mentions a significant milestone in renewable energy generation surpassing coal for the first time.
Greg Clark
Con
Outlines substantial progress made by his department since its creation, including confirmation of Hinkley Point C nuclear power station and ratification of the Paris agreement on climate change to keep global temperature rise below 2° C.
Stuart Andrew
Con
Daventry
Compliments Leeds University for its research partnerships with businesses and academics in India during Prime Minister’s visit, encouraging further collaboration.
Greg Clark
Con
Congratulates the University of Leeds on its efforts to build a reputation as an excellent centre for learning and innovation, highlighting his role in initiating a tech summit in India involving UK vice-chancellors.
Clive Lewis
Lab
Norwich South
Asks the Secretary of State to support delivery riders seeking union recognition against bogus self-employment and for employment rights such as sick pay and holiday pay, asking for government support in this matter.
Greg Clark
Con
Acknowledges a commissioned review of new employment practices led by Matthew Taylor; suggests that the Labour party did not initiate such a review when they were in power.
Mark Pawsey
Con
QT2
Encourages the Minister to consider proceeding with the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon project, highlighting opportunities for UK to become a leader in this sector through expertise provided by GE Energy.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Celebrates the work of world-leading companies like GE Energy in his constituency as part of the industrial strategy, underlining their capacity to benefit from opportunities arising from low-carbon technologies.
Barry Sheerman
Con
QT3
Concerned about Russell Group universities facing a meltdown post-Brexit regarding staff, students and research; asks for a plan to address these issues.
Greg Clark
Con
Asserts that UK universities remain among the best in the world with initiatives like opening of the Francis Crick Institute this week; plans to ensure reinforcement of scientific excellence and innovation are central to industrial strategy.
Edward Argar
Con
Melton and Syston
Highlights the necessity for businesses and industry to access communications and technical infrastructure in any successful industrial strategy, questioning steps taken by the Secretary of State to ensure such access.
Greg Clark
Con
Acknowledges that supporting infrastructure including digital infrastructure is crucial for maintaining UK’s position of excellence and deems it necessary for an upgrade.
Stephen Timms
Lab
East Ham
Questions the Government's plan to protect exports from the digital economy after EU exit, given 43% of east London's digital exports are currently going to other EU states.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Acknowledges importance of UK’s digital infrastructure in economic strategy, referencing a report on BT’s under-investment in Openreach from his previous role as Chair; suggests revisiting specific questions after industrial strategy publication.
Fiona Bruce
Con
QT7
Highlights the UK's current 60% self-sufficiency in food production and enquires about strategies to encourage the next generation into farming for future food security.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Supports new and young farmers through increased basic payment scheme payments and apprenticeships; highlights agri-tech study opportunities at New Model in Technology and Engineering institute in Herefordshire.
Angela Smith
Lab
QT8
Asks the Secretary of State for evidence that a new UK-EU trade agreement can be completed within two years post-Brexit; questions if an interim transitional arrangement will be required.
Greg Clark
Con
Responds to concerns about securing a trade deal, stating that consultations with business and industry are necessary before negotiations commence.
Requests the Secretary of State to publish discussion papers on the industrial strategy as soon as possible, reflecting contributions from recent debate in the House.
Greg Clark
Con
Confirms intention to engage Members and organisations outside parliament in discussions over months ahead to reflect a broad consensus around an enduring industrial strategy.
Diana R. Johnson
Lab
Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham
Expresses concern about Marks & Spencer's threat of closure for 60 branches, urging the Minister to encourage full consultation with staff trade unions at earliest opportunity.
Defends Marks & Spencer’s record in consulting their staff widely on changes through regional, local and national bodies, suggesting unfair comparison to BHS treatment.
Daniel Poulter
Con
Supports plans for a Sizewell C power station but asks the Minister to ensure requisite improvements in rail and road infrastructure, particularly addressing pinch points around surrounding villages.
Greg Clark
Con
Acknowledges the importance of linking major investment with improved infrastructure through growth deals and local enterprise partnerships.
Caroline Lucas
Green
Brighton, Pavilion
Government delays in the last contract for difference auction are undermining investor confidence. Requests confirmation that the next offshore wind auction will take place no later than January next year.
Reassures the shadow Minister about the Government's commitment to renewable energy and promises an announcement soon.
Concerned about the complex planning process for building combined cycle gas turbines on sites where coal-fired power stations have historically been. Asks her Friend to meet her to discuss how their departments can work together to address this matter.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Agrees to meet his hon. Friend, Amanda Milling, to discuss the planning process for building combined cycle gas turbines on sites where coal-fired power stations have historically been situated.
Concerned about trade barriers and protectionist dumping by China regarding the ceramics industry during Brexit. Asks the Minister what discussions are being had with the Secretary of State for Exiting the EU.
Greg Clark
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Acknowledges that ceramics is a major source of competitive advantage for Britain, will be well-represented at the Cabinet Committee considering Brexit. Emphasises innovation in Stoke-on-Trent.
Highlights advantages of Brexit, including provision of state aid which they are currently forbidden from doing. Asks his right hon. Friend to consider this area of support.
Greg Clark
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
States that he wants the economy to be as competitive without need for state aid, focusing on strengths in innovation and workforce talent.
Peter Kyle
Lab
Hove and Portslade
Discusses surveillance of MPs during a visit to Sports Direct's Shirebrook facility. Asks the Secretary of State whether this kind of behaviour is representative of companies in Britain, suggesting it should not be.
Greg Clark
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Agrees that surveillance practices by Sports Direct are extraordinary and not reflective of most British companies' high standards of behaviour.
Highlights a potential unintended consequence from Ofgem’s review regarding roll-out of energy storage. Asks his right hon. Friend to look into this problem.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Agrees to address the issue raised by Peter Aldous about Ofgem’s review and its potential impact on roll-out of energy storage.
Asks the Secretary of State to urgently look into today's announcement by Royal Bank of Scotland regarding funding repayments to small businesses. Requests a report detailing the Government's response.
Greg Clark
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Promises to consider the RBS announcement and write to David Hanson with his reaction to it.
Commends the final report of the Energy and Climate Change Committee, particularly on energy storage and demand-side management. Encourages enactment of these recommendations.
Greg Clark
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Acknowledges and thanks members of the Select Committee for their valuable contributions to public policy, promising to pay close attention to the report's final recommendations.
Urges setting up an industrial strategy to train people in major infrastructure and construction businesses so that every constituent has an opportunity to work on the restoration and renewal of this building.
Greg Clark
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Acknowledges Chris Bryant's point, emphasising the importance of a trained and skilled workforce for fulfilling future order books.
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