Aaron Bell
MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
In Walleys Quarry, constituents have been let down by the Environment Agency's failure to prosecute a rogue operator for repeated permit breaches. The agency's monitoring equipment has also been grossly under-recording levels of hydrogen sulphide for the past seven years. Given this situation, will the Prime Minister do everything in his power to get a grip on this failing organisation?
Context
The Environment Agency has failed to prosecute a rogue operator for permit breaches and its monitoring equipment has been under-recording levels of hydrogen sulphide by a factor of two or three for the past seven years.
Rishi Sunak
The hon. Member is right to raise concerns about his constituents. The EA's criminal investigation is ongoing, but I have been assured that it is working swiftly to understand the scale of the problem with measurement inaccuracies. The Environment Secretary will keep him updated regularly.
Assessment
Did not commit to taking specific action against the failing organization.
Hedging Language
Session: PMQs
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Would my right hon. Friend consider merits of opening new dental schools like Keele University?
Context
The new long-term workforce plan welcomed, particularly for more places in dental schools. Access to dentistry is an issue for constituents.
Oliver Dowden (Deputy Prime Minister)
As ever, my hon. Friend makes a strong case for his constituency. We are assessing capacity at existing dental schools to see whether they can accommodate the expansion in training places, retaining an open mind about further education facilities.
Assessment
No commitment on opening new dental schools was given; assessment is ongoing.
Assessment
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister commit to reading and considering recommendations from the APPG on coalfield communities, and working out what more can be done to level up these areas?
Context
The APPG on coalfield communities published a report recommending further action for the economic development of former coalfields.
Rishi Sunak
I very much welcome the work of the APPG on coalfield communities and, indeed, the breadth and ambition of its policy contributions. We are committed to levelling up the UK by spreading opportunity more equally across the country and by investing in and empowering places that need it the most.
Assessment
Specific commitment or timeline for addressing recommendations from the report
Working With Partners
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister join me in congratulating the winners of my competition for Newcastle's best loved independent shops?
Context
Independent retailers are crucial to high street regeneration and the economy, with recent winners of a competition highlighting their importance.
Rishi Sunak
I agree about the benefit small businesses bring, and I congratulate Anasma Greek Bakery on winning the competition. The Government are investing in my hon. Friend's constituency through town deals and funding from the future high streets fund.
Session: PMQs
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Can he reassure me and my constituents that we will not only bolster patrols on French beaches but ensure people who make the dangerous journey are removed?
Context
The British people expect us to control our borders.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is right that it is a priority for all our constituents, and he is right to highlight our new deal with France which increases funded patrols on French beaches by 40%. We must go further to solve the problem once and for all, introducing legislation making it clear that if someone enters the UK illegally they should not stay here but be swiftly detained and removed.
Session: PMQs
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Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has secured millions of pounds of Government investment for our high street, but we have a problem with persistent antisocial behaviour on the high street. Will my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister therefore welcome the recent appointment of a new chief constable for Staffordshire and a new borough commander for Newcastle, and the fact that Newcastle will get its own dedicated response unit? Will he also set out what further measures the Government are taking to combat crime and antisocial behaviour?
Context
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has secured millions of pounds for the high street, but faces a persistent problem with antisocial behaviour.
Boris Johnson
There are now 13,576 more police on the streets of this country as a result of the actions taken by this Government. We are cracking down on drugs gangs and cross-channel gangs risking migrants' lives in the English channel. The Labour party is soft on drugs and would scrap the economic and migration partnership with Rwanda.
Assessment
Welcoming appointments and further measures against crime and antisocial behaviour
Changed Subject To Broader Issues Like Drug Gangs, Migration Partnerships
Session: PMQs
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Can I ask him what the Government intend to do to support the hospitality sector?
Context
The town of Newcastle-under-Lyme is proud of its early-evening and night-time economy.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
I refer my hon. Friend to what I said to our hon. Friend the Member for Eastbourne (Caroline Ansell) just now. We will continue to support the hospitality sector in all the ways that I have described, but, of course, what could also happen is that people in Newcastle-under-Lyme could be encouraged to enjoy themselves sensibly, in a covid-secure way, and keep the purple flag flying above it.
Session: PMQs
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Further to the question asked by my hon. Friend the Member for Harrow East (Bob Blackman), since Hamas's attack, Jewish students on campus report that they have had a year's worth of antisemitic incidents in only two weeks. Some have been targeted, the attack itself was celebrated, and some have received death threats. As such, does the Minister agree that universities should work with the Union of Jewish Students to publicise the welfare hotline that it has established; avail themselves of the training that the UJS offers; and work to implement the recommendations of the recent report of the taskforce on antisemitism in higher education?
Context
Hamas's recent attack led to a surge in antisemitic incidents on campus, affecting Jewish students.
Robert Halfon
I have made it clear that we will not tolerate antisemitism on campus. We are working closely with the Union of Jewish Students and the higher education Jewish chaplaincy service, as well as the Community Security Trust. I welcome the taskforce's report and its recommendations, and we absolutely urge universities to prioritise the implementation of that report.
Session: Topical Questions
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On dental provision, I recently met with Dr Khan of Westbury Park dental practice in my constituency to discuss access to NHS dentistry, which is becoming more difficult for many of my constituents. The MP welcomed the plans to increase the number of dentists and reiterated support for a dental school at Keele University but stated these will take time. He asked about steps being taken to expedite registration exams for overseas clinicians.
Context
The MP met with Dr Khan of Westbury Park dental practice to discuss access to NHS dentistry, which is becoming more difficult for many constituents. There are plans to increase the number of dentists but these will take time.
Steve Barclay
He is right that we are taking both long-term and short-term actions. A key part of the long-term workforce plan is to boost the number of dentists being trained. In the more immediate term, earlier this year we made legislative changes that give the General Dental Council the flexibility to improve the way professionals are registered, giving more flexibility in terms of the skills mix and, for example, tripling the number of people sitting part 1 this year, so that more overseas professionals can be recognised and qualified to practise in the UK.
Session: Topical Questions
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If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. The MP noted the launch of a new £30 million fund to speed up tech adoption across the NHS, with local pilots proving their effectiveness but taking too long to be rolled out nationally. He asked for confirmation that this fund is being used to expedite the roll-out and mentioned additional medical school places.
Context
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has launched a new £30 million fund to speed up the adoption of technology in the NHS.
Steve Barclay
First, may I welcome Opposition Front-Bench Members to their new roles, as there have been changes since we last met? Since then, we have launched a new £30 million fund to speed up the adoption of tech across the NHS. Even when local pilots prove their effectiveness, it often takes too long for those innovations to be rolled out nationally. This fund can change that, giving integrated care systems across England the chance to invest in tech that is proven to improve care, for instance in detecting cancer sooner. These investments will be made this financial year, getting patients care faster. We are also making more than 200 more medical school places available for universities from next September, accelerating a commitment that we made in the NHS long-term workforce plan and delivering more doctors to areas that need them most.
Session: Topical Questions
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Would the Minister join me in urging the council in its next draft to further prioritise brownfield development, which is the key to regeneration?
Context
Discussion about the local plan process in Newcastle-under-Lyme and prioritising brownfield development.
Rachel Maclean
I can assure my hon. Friend that it is the Government's policy to strongly encourage local authorities to make the most of brownfield land first, especially for new homes.
Session: Green Spaces Protection
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What steps is his Department taking to protect green spaces? Through the Levelling Up Parks Fund, what specific measures are being taken?
Context
The question arises from the need to protect green spaces in communities.
Rachel Maclean
Through the Levelling Up Parks Fund we have made available £9 million for local authorities in areas of high deprivation to create or significantly refurbish green spaces. The fund also includes the planting and maintaining of trees and encourages projects to work towards green flag award status.
Session: Green Spaces Protection
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I thank my hon. Friend for his answer. I congratulate him and the Secretary of State on their anniversaries and pay tribute to them for all they have done in the past year. Some have suggested that we could reform the Barnett formula to address the sustainability of public finances in Northern Ireland, but does my hon. Friend agree that that is not a silver bullet, and that trade-offs will need to be made to fund public services?
Context
Some have suggested reforming the Barnett formula to address financial sustainability in Northern Ireland, but there are concerns about its effectiveness.
Steven Baker
I am extremely grateful to my hon. Friend for his question. This is a very important point. Although we will remain open to discussing proposals put to us by the Northern Ireland parties, it would not be a silver bullet to reform the Barnett formula. An Executive will still need to make trade-offs when they decide to spend scarce resources. Negotiations between the Welsh Government and the Treasury on a fiscal framework, which included an adjustment to the Barnett formula, took place over seven years, so, with the best will in the world, it is not an issue that can be solved overnight. What we need is a functioning Executive and we stand ready to work with that Executive. In the meantime, we will continue to engage with the Northern Ireland civil service on a range of measures that could improve fiscal sustainability.
Session: Public Finances
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What steps his Department is taking to ensure the sustainability of Northern Ireland's public finances?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the financial sustainability of Northern Ireland's public services and the measures needed to address this issue.
Steven Baker
The Northern Ireland Budget (No. 2) Bill 2023-24 is progressing through Parliament and is due to be debated in the other House next week. The Secretary of State has used his powers to request information and advice from the Northern Ireland civil service on measures that could generate revenue and improve the sustainability of public finances.
Session: Public Finances
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Changes to access means-tested benefits for those with vaccine damage payments are welcome. Will the Minister join me in paying tribute to Sheila Ward for her campaign?
Context
Recent changes improved access to means-tested benefits for vaccine damage payment recipients.
Guy Opperman
Pay credit to Mrs Ward and Aaron Bell, noting the Stoke Sentinel report on this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will he welcome the local hospital trust opening not only a new modular theatre for specialised hand surgery but also a central treatment suite for day patients at the County Hospital in Stafford, funded by NHS England's elective recovery plan?
Context
A new modular theatre for specialised hand surgery and a central treatment suite for day patients are opening at the County Hospital in Stafford, funded by NHS England's elective recovery plan.
Will Quince
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. He has set out the improvements being made at Stafford County Hospital, and he has been a strong champion for those works. This is real, visible, positive change that will benefit residents and patients in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Session: Topical Questions
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Not one but two rogue operators are causing issues at Walleys Quarry Landfill. What will the Minister do to ensure justice and accountability for affected constituents?
Context
The BBC's “Panorama” programme highlighted the misery inflicted by Walleys Quarry Landfill, affecting constituents in Newcastle-under-Lyme and Stoke-on-Trent.
Rebecca Pow
An enforcement notice was issued requiring further action around waste acceptance procedures. The Environment Agency is working hard to reduce risks but did not specify concrete steps.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituents are rightly appalled by the organised nature of so much immigration crime. Can my right hon. and learned Friend set out what work is being done to tackle those organised groups' operations at source, and what impact that is having in reducing the numbers of arrivals of illegal immigrants?
Context
Concerns exist about the organised nature of immigration-related crimes and their impact on illegal immigrant numbers.
Suella Braverman
Part of our plan to stop the boats focuses on causal factors such as serious organised immigration crime gangs, which are networked and highly resourced. We have had some success in arresting hundreds of people involved in those gangs and disabling several such gangs.
Session: Topical Questions
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Just as in Newcastle-under-Lyme, I welcome the Government's support for households and businesses in Northern Ireland with energy costs. However, is it not the case that some of those schemes could have been delivered more efficiently had there been a functioning Executive in Northern Ireland?
Context
Some energy support schemes may have been implemented more efficiently had there been a functioning Executive in Northern Ireland.
Steven Baker
One hundred per cent—that is absolutely right. I experienced for myself, as did the Secretary of State, the difficulties that followed. I am very grateful to the Ministers and officials of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy for making the delivery of those schemes possible, but my hon. Friend is 100% correct.
Session: Cost of Living
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Last month, Sir Patrick Vallance stepped down as the Government's chief scientific adviser after five years in the role, in which Government investment in science has doubled. Most of all, he became a household name through his handling of covid and the leadership that he showed then. Will the Secretary of State join me in thanking Sir Patrick for all his service to the country and in welcoming his successor, Dame Angela McLean, and wishing her all the best in the role?
Context
Sir Patrick Vallance stepped down from the role and Dame Angela McLean is taking over.
George Freeman
May I, as Science Minister on behalf of the Government, pay tribute to Sir Patrick and thank Dame Angela for taking on the role? Sir Patrick has been a stalwart servant for science and for this country during difficult times.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does she agree with opponents who say such comparisons represent an 'appalling' lack of understanding?
Context
There are concerns that comparing current policies to those of the 1930s Germany is a gross misrepresentation.
Suella Braverman
Many people have commented on this. All I will say is that people who resort to such analogies have already lost the argument.
Session: Illegal Migration Bill Compatibility
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I thank the Minister for her answer. With 26,500 pensioners in the borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme, the 10.1% increase in the state pension and pension credit will be very welcome, but what other schemes are the Government putting in place to help people with the cost of living at this time?
Context
The MP inquires about other schemes the Government are putting in place to help with living costs for pensioners.
Laura Trott
Pensioners will receive a further £300 cost of living payment this winter and all on pension credit will receive a further £900.
Session: Cost of Living Pensioner Support
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What steps his Department is taking to help pensioners with increases in living costs?
Context
The question addresses the steps being taken by the government to assist pensioners facing higher living expenses.
Laura Trott
The Government are committed to helping pensioners with the increased costs of living. From April, pensioners will receive the largest ever cash increase in the state pension, and pension credit will also be uprated by 10.1%.
Session: Cost of Living Pensioner Support
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Antisocial behaviour is causing misery for my constituents, as I can tell from responses to my survey. Does the Secretary of State therefore welcome the stronger action that we have seen from Staffordshire police since its new local policing model was introduced last June? In the last month, that action has included a closure notice in Knutton, working with Asda to stop boy racers in the Wolstanton car park, and a section 34 order in Chesterton. It is a big issue, but we are moving in the right direction.
Context
Antisocial behaviour is causing misery for Aaron Bell's constituents, as evidenced by survey responses.
Michael Gove
Staffordshire's police and crime commissioner is certainly moving in the right direction, as is Staffordshire police, supported ably by my hon. Friend and others such as my hon. Friend the Member for Burton (Kate Kniveton). Boy racers and others who cause misery for their neighbours need to be dealt with effectively.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituents want to see the Government crack down on corporate criminality. What measures are the Government considering in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill to address corporate crime?
Context
Constituents are concerned about corporate criminality. The Government has proposed a new 'failure to prevent' offence and extended SFO pre-investigation powers in the upcoming bill.
Michael Tomlinson
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his interest. The Government recognise that the current law does not go far enough. That is why we have committed to addressing the need for a new “failure to prevent” offence in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill. In addition, we are introducing a provision to extend the SFO's pre-investigation powers.
Session: Serious Fraud Office Prosecutions for Fraud and Bribery
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What steps she is taking to help the Serious Fraud Office investigate and prosecute fraud and bribery, given that a company recently paid the highest ever amount in a corporate criminal conviction?
Context
The question stems from ongoing concerns about the prosecution of corporate fraud and bribery. The Serious Fraud Office's recent successful case against Glencore Energy UK Ltd for £280 million highlights the need for continued support.
Michael Tomlinson
Mr Speaker, you may remember that the SFO successfully prosecuted Glencore Energy UK Ltd and that the total amount the company will pay—£280 million—is the highest ever ordered in a corporate criminal conviction in the United Kingdom. We continue to work closely with the SFO to identify any policy changes that could support its ambitions.
Session: Serious Fraud Office Prosecutions for Fraud and Bribery
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What diplomatic steps is my right hon. Friend taking to ensure that our allies also hear the message about supporting Ukraine's frontline?
Context
Support for Ukrainian refugees in the UK, emphasizing the importance of rapid aid provision.
James Cleverly
My hon. Friend speaks about the compassion and support of his constituents in Newcastle-under-Lyme for Ukrainian refugees. Other families in the region and across the UK have offered that, too. That is their important contribution to Ukraine's war effort. Our contribution is that military aid, the economic aid and reconstruction aid, but also to ensure that we rouse our friends in the international community to provide the Ukrainians with the tools that they need to liberate themselves from Russian aggression. We were there at the start and will be there at the finish. We will continue to support the Ukrainians in their self-defence.
Session: Ukraine Humanitarian Support
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What diplomatic steps is his Department taking to strengthen the international response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine?
Context
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and international support for the country.
James Cleverly
The UK has committed £220 million of humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and the region, enabling the provision of essential services and protection for the most vulnerable. A review of humanitarian spend will be published later this year. The UK is working closely with our international partners, including those in the G7, to accelerate efforts to secure a just and sustainable peace for the people of Ukraine.
Session: Ukraine Humanitarian Support
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I concur with my right hon. Friend that we have shown the way on Ukraine. We have consistently been at the forefront. He mentioned battle tanks; it was our announcement that set the precedent that enabled our allies to make their announcements last week. In the same vein, will my right hon. Friend confirm that we will continue to lead the way on support for Ukraine by pushing our allies to match our commitment to send as much, or more, military aid to Ukraine this year as we sent last year?
Context
Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the MP is interested in confirming whether the UK will continue to lead international efforts by matching its military aid commitment from last year.
James Heappey
The Government have already committed the same amount of money for this year as it did for last year, so in that sense the job is already done. Of course, how this year's money is used will depend very much on what is going on on the ground.
Session: Ukraine International Response
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What steps his Department is taking to progress the international response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The UK has been leading efforts with the gifting of modern main battle tanks to Ukraine, but the MP wants more details on the coordinated military and diplomatic effort being made by the UK and its allies.
Context
The MP is concerned about the UK's role in providing military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine following Russia's invasion.
James Heappey
The UK, our allies and partners are responding decisively to provide military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. The UK has led the world with the gifting of modern main battle tanks to Ukraine, and we are engaging international partners through a co-ordinated military and diplomatic effort.
Session: Ukraine International Response
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If he will review whether vaccine damage payment awards should be disregarded for the purposes of universal credit. I thank the Minister for meeting me to discuss the case of Mrs Ward, who has been bereaved and whose full vaccine damage payment is means-tested under universal credit despite being disregarded in other systems.
Context
The question stems from a case of vaccine side effects affecting Mrs Ward's eligibility for full vaccine damage payments under the universal credit scheme.
Guy Opperman
My hon. Friend Aaron Bell has raised an important matter regarding the case of Mrs Ward, whose bereavement and associated vaccination side effects have led to a means-tested payment under universal credit rather than full compensation as in other systems.
Session: Universal Credit Vaccine Damage Payment Awards
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If he will review whether vaccine damage payment awards should be disregarded for the purposes of universal credit. I thank the Minister for meeting me to discuss the case of Mrs Ward, who has been bereaved and whose full vaccine damage payment is means-tested under universal credit despite being disregarded in other systems.
Context
The question stems from a case of vaccine side effects affecting Mrs Ward's eligibility for full vaccine damage payments under the universal credit scheme.
Guy Opperman
My sympathies go out to Mrs Ward and her family. I can assure him that this matter will be reviewed as it is a cross-Government issue, but it will be resolved by the summer at the latest.
Session: Universal Credit Vaccine Damage Payment Awards
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Will the new Secretary of State visit Newcastle-under-Lyme to oversee the ongoing investigations, ensuring justice for my constituents?
Context
There are now regulatory and criminal investigations into Walleys Quarry Ltd following an announcement by the Environment Agency.
Steve Double
I am aware of the issues with Walleys Quarry Ltd. We are making progress on enforcement action with the Environment Agency. I am happy to meet with my hon. Friend if appropriate.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will you welcome the measures in our town deal, including 40 electric vehicle charging points and will you visit to see the projects?
Context
The MP asks about the Secretary of State's welcome for a town deal that includes electric vehicle infrastructure.
Grant Shapps
I congratulate my hon. Friend on winning funding for 40 new electric chargers in his area, noting that this country now has more rapid chargers per mile than any other European country.
Session: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
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What steps are you taking to improve electric vehicle infrastructure?
Context
The MP asks about steps being taken to improve electric vehicle infrastructure.
Grant Shapps
Since 2020, the Government have committed £2.5 billion to supporting the transition to electric vehicles.
Session: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
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Welcoming the tackling domestic abuse plan, the MP emphasizes the necessity of prevention and specifically mentions the importance of teaching school-aged children about healthy relationships. Can the Minister confirm if this is part of the government's plans?
Context
The question addresses the importance of preventive measures and highlights the need for educating children about healthy relationships to prevent future occurrences of domestic abuse.
Rachel Maclean
Prevention is indeed a key pillar of our strategy, and we have implemented specific programmes to prevent domestic abuse. We support early intervention through statutory Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) which teaches children about respectful relationships from an early age.
Session: Domestic Abuse
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In December, my constituent Daphne Franks and I delivered a paper to the Ministry of Justice setting out proposals to end predatory marriage, but so far nothing has been done, mainly because the review of wills has been paused by the Law Commission. Given that the elderly and vulnerable are still being targeted every day, may I ask the Secretary of State whether he will now step in and support the legislative changes set out in our proposal so that we can finally bring this appalling abuse to an end?
Context
The Ministry of Justice has paused the review on wills, preventing legislative action against predatory marriage.
Tom Pursglove
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for raising this issue in the House. I am happy to have a conversation and a meeting with him to discuss his proposals in greater detail. It is important to recognise that in the marriage space we are awaiting the outcome of the Law Commission's review, which is expected in July. Like other Ministers in the Department, I will want to have a thorough look at all these matters in the round.
Session: Topical Questions
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The A50-A500 corridor is vital to north Staffordshire's economy. Improvements are necessary for levelling-up agenda goals. May I ask you to welcome Midlands Connect's proposals and discuss any plans or conversations with National Highways regarding improvements at junction 15 on the M6?
Context
Midlands Connect proposed improvements to the A50-A500 corridor, crucial for Staffordshire's economy. Focus on junction 15 on the M6.
Grant Shapps
We are keen to ensure improvements along the A50-A500 corridor. We will continue working with National Highways on proposals from Midlands Connect, including efforts at Junction 15 on the M6. Specific plans and conversations are ongoing.
Session: Topical Questions
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Alan Davie, Ian Roberts, Geddes and Laird are the hauliers who keep the economy of Angus moving, and by the Road Haulage Association's estimate they are facing an 18% increase in operating costs purely on fuel. What discussions will the Secretary of State have with the Chancellor to get something sorted to keep our economy moving?
Context
Haulage companies are facing an 18% increase in operating costs due to fuel price rises.
Grant Shapps
The hon. Member is right to point out the fantastic work done by haulage companies and all their workers. Over the next five years, the 2022-23 freeze will represent £8 billion off the fuel bill for motorists in this country, including the haulier sector, which I recently backed with 32 separate measures to ensure that it can continue to operate during what have been difficult times post-covid.
Session: Rising Fuel Costs Impact on Motorists
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I know that the Minister gets regular updates on the situation at Walleys Quarry in Newcastle-under-Lyme. She knows that the problem is not yet solved and people are still having to live with it. What update can she give me? What hope can she give to my constituents?
Context
The problem at Walleys Quarry in Newcastle-under-Lyme is ongoing, affecting local residents. The Minister receives weekly updates.
Jo Churchill
DEFRA's chief scientific adviser has been talking to independent external scientific experts about Walleys Quarry and site capping, gas management, air dispersal and leachate. My officials keep me regularly updated and my hon. Friend knows that I take it very seriously.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that we may need to go further and that nothing should be off the table in terms of who or what we target?
Context
The UK has introduced sanctions against Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine.
Elizabeth Truss
My hon. Friend is right: nothing is off the table. We have been and are working with G7 partners, whom we want to see go further in areas such as a complete ban on SWIFT and the complete freezing of all bank assets, and by committing to a timetable for reducing dependency on oil and gas because, fundamentally, Russia is a state propped up by the oil and gas industry and, to really tackle the funding for Putin's war machine, we need to cut off that funding stream.
Session: Support for Ukraine
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What steps will be taken to invest in the latest technological advances, so that tagging can keep up with the evolving behaviour of offenders? Newcastle-under-Lyme hosts the North Staffordshire Justice Centre and constituents welcome the progress made.
Context
Investment in future technology to ensure electronic tagging keeps pace with offender behaviour is discussed.
Kit Malthouse
£19 million of £183 million investment will go into finding the holy grail—a drugs tag to fit offenders' ankles. This technology aims to prevent drug use, thus deterring reoffending. The market is being stimulated for this future technology.
Session: Electronic Tagging of Offenders
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What progress has been made on the roll-out of electronic tagging for offenders? The programme aims to address reoffending by ensuring that those released from prison and convicted of acquisitive crimes wear GPS tags. Between April and September, over 1500 offenders had sobriety tags.
Context
The roll-out of electronic monitoring for offenders is being discussed, aiming to reduce reoffending rates.
Kit Malthouse
There has been excellent progress with the GPS tagging programme for prolific acquisitive criminals, now covering half of England and Wales. Over 1500 offenders wore sobriety tags between April and September. The scheme aims to reduce reoffending rates by monitoring these individuals closely.
Session: Electronic Tagging of Offenders
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City of York's Lib Dem/Green council—Oh, the irony of it—is instituting six new car parks in our city centre. As a result, there will be a further threat to people's lives, particularly with regard to respiratory conditions, given the already challenged air quality. What discussions is the Minister having with the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to ensure that councils do not put new car parks in their planning?
Context
The City of York council, despite being run by Lib Dem/Green coalition, is instituting six new car parks in the city centre. This action poses a further threat to people's lives, especially those with respiratory conditions.
Jo Churchill
There are many local initiatives going on. The nitrogen dioxide plan, which I spoke about earlier, is the key to driving down emissions, and we are working with the Department for Transport on that.
Session: Winter Air Quality
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I welcome the Minister to her place. This ongoing public health emergency in Newcastle-under-Lyme has been a real trial for my constituents. Does she agree that in future the Environment Agency will need to take into account the effects on public health—both physical and mental health—of odorous emissions and the gases that escape from landfills, so that no other town has to go through what we have in the last year?
Context
The ongoing public health emergency in Newcastle-under-Lyme due to odorous emissions has caused significant distress among constituents.
Maggie Throup
I assure my hon. Friend that the Environment Agency takes the situation very seriously and is working with the operators of the site to address it as quickly and effectively as possible. I am sure that he will be pleased to learn that the Environment Agency has re-evaluated its regulatory approach following the outcome of the judicial review, and on 14 October published its plan to reduce the levels of hydrogen sulphide emissions at the site.
Session: Walley’s Quarry Odorous Emissions
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What discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the (a) short-term and (b) long-term impact on public health of the ongoing odorous emissions from Walley's Quarry in Newcastle-under-Lyme?
Context
The ongoing odorous emissions from Walley's Quarry in Newcastle-under-Lyme have caused public health concerns, both short-term and long-term.
Maggie Throup
I commend my hon. Friend for his tenacity on the issue of Walley's Quarry and for continuing to stand up for his constituents. As part of the multi-agency response, the UK Health Security Agency provides expertise and support to the Environment Agency and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. On 4 May, the Secretary of State took appropriate action, writing to the Environment Agency, which regulates the landfill operation, and urging it to use its regulatory and enforcement powers over Walley's Quarry Ltd to resolve the problems at the site.
Session: Walley’s Quarry Odorous Emissions
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I welcome the continuing success of the new visa relief for holders of British national overseas status; it reflects the UK's historic and moral commitment to the people of Hong Kong in the face of the new national security law. Will my right hon. Friend confirm what steps he is taking to ensure that those Hongkongers will be welcomed to Britain and able to integrate into our local communities?
Context
Concerns over ensuring the successful integration of Hong Kong residents with British National (Overseas) status into UK communities.
Dominic Raab
I think that this is the most big-hearted offer that the UK has made since the Indian Ugandans fled Idi Amin. My hon. Friend is right that it is not just about offering safe haven; the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has announced a £43 million dedicated support package to ensure that BNOs can integrate and thrive in our country.
Session: Hong Kong National Security Law
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Cryptoasset Promotions in Sport
08 November 2022
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
['Mr Aaron Bell is concerned about the misleading promotion of cryptoassets by sports teams and players, the lack of consumer protection for fans investing in these assets, inadequate due diligence by clubs before entering into deals with crypto companies, and the monetisation of fan engagement through speculative investments. He highlights that nearly every Premier League club now has a crypto partner, and many have entered deals without proper regulation or acknowledgment of risks. Instances such as NFT schemes losing significant value and failing to deliver promised benefits are cited.']
Specific Asks
['Mr Bell asks the Government to work with relevant actors across sectors to ensure both statutory regulation and self-regulation in sport for cryptoassets, urging the Premier League to reconsider deals like the proposed £30 million arrangement with Sorare. He also requests that issues of cryptoasset promotion fall under the remit of a new independent regulator for English football.']
Waste Industry: Criminality and Regulation
01 February 2022
Responding: Jo Churchill
Main Concerns
["The current nature of waste crime in England is beyond the capacity of the Environment Agency as a regulator. The cost of waste crime was estimated to be £924 million in 2018-19 and likely exceeds £1 billion now. Aaron Bell highlighted specific issues at Walleys Quarry, including hydrogen sulphide emissions that affect local residents' health and quality of life. He also raised concerns about the regulation allowing a convicted criminal to operate waste sites and the lack of effective penalties for environmental violations."]
Specific Asks
["Bell asked for the operator's permit at Walleys Quarry to be suspended while allegations are investigated, and for stronger enforcement against fraudulent practices in the waste industry. He urged the government to address regulatory loopholes that allow criminals to evade justice and suggested a better fit-and-proper-person test for waste site operators."]
Core School Budget Allocations
17 October 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Zero-emission Vehicles, Drivers and HS2
16 October 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government are making decisions to improve the journeys that matter most to the British public, focusing on zero-emission vehicles with ambitious but proportionate targets. They will back Britain’...
Backbench Business
19 September 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP discusses the negative impact of the expansion of ULEZ on London residents, highlighting issues such as affordability, accessibility, and safety. He also criticises a proposed development proje...
UK Export Performance
18 September 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The UK was the world’s fifth largest exporter last year, with a value of £849 billion in goods and services sold overseas. Despite global challenges like Putin's war in Ukraine and the COVID recovery,...
Safety of School Buildings
06 September 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Phillipson moved for the release of documents related to spending reviews in 2020-21 concerning school buildings safety. She emphasised the issue was about responsibility, accusing the Prime Minister ...
Work Capability Assessment Consultation
05 September 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Illegal Migration Update
05 September 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete in Education Settings
04 September 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Nationality and Borders Bill - Clause 1
11 July 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr Robert Jenrick moves to disagree with Lords amendment 1, which he considers as part of a series of amendments that he perceives as wrecking the fundamental purpose of addressing cross-channel incen...
Migration and Economic Development Partnership
29 June 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
7
PMQs Asked
73
Ministerial Questions Asked
162
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+445% above average
This MP:
73
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3233% above average
This MP:
162
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Aaron Bell's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.