Anthony Mangnall
MP for Totnes
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I might respectfully say to the deputy leader of the Labour party, the right hon. Member for Ashton-under-Lyne (Angela Rayner), that if she wants to know what we are doing on rental reform, she can look at the Renters (Reform) Bill that this Government are introducing.
Context
The questioner wants to discuss rental reforms and the Renters (Reform) Bill.
Oliver Dowden
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to speak up for the Slapton line. It is one of the most beautiful roads in the country. I understand that the Slapton Line Partnership, which includes Natural England and the Environment Agency, is working closely with the local community on the plans.
Assessment
The questioner's specific ask about rental reforms was avoided.
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister ensure that we can give more support and help to people living on park home sites and reform the Mobile Homes Act 2013?
Context
There are 250,000 people in this country living on park home sites facing various challenges.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is right that there is still more work to do to tackle problems with the sector. We are making progress in implementing changes. Park home owners' rights are now codified in writing with the site owner, and should those obligations not be met, residents can take site owners to a tribunal. Local authorities also now have powers to take enforcement action, and we will continue to support them to improve protection for park home residents everywhere.
Session: PMQs
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I need him to help me lobby the Department for Transport and the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to see that we get the repairs done. Natural England is standing in the way and stopping us from doing what we need to do for this vital link. Will he support me?
Context
The Slapton line, an important link in south Devon, is being eroded away due to natural forces.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is a fantastic campaigner and advocate for his constituents. I know that this particular issue is causing frustration and concern in his community. He is absolutely right to raise it, and I will ensure that he gets the appropriate meetings he needs with the Ministers in question.
Assessment
The answer did not specify concrete actions but offered support for securing meetings.
Promising Meetings
Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about delivering the necessary police on our streets as campaigned for by Ryan Stephenson in Batley and Spen. Will the Prime Minister support initiatives like the councillor advocate scheme proposed by Alison Hernandez?
Context
Ryan Stephenson, the candidate for Batley and Spen, is campaigning to deliver necessary police services. The councillor advocate scheme was launched by Alison Hernandez.
Boris Johnson
I am a big fan of Alison Hernandez and I think she is doing absolutely the right thing. To support her, we are increasing our policing presence on the streets of the city. We are rolling up county lines drugs gangs; we have tackled about a third of them so far. We have also instituted tougher penalties for serious sexual and violent offenders.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not explicitly commit to supporting initiatives such as the councillor advocate scheme
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister expedite the FSA report on shellfish water quality grades to ensure timely reclassification of waters for better exports? This could significantly benefit the UK's shellfish industry which relies heavily on EU markets.
Context
The UK's shellfish industry faces potential export challenges due to delayed FSA water quality grading. The current timeline is September, and the MP seeks a more immediate resolution.
Boris Johnson
The Prime Minister will do everything possible to expedite the FSA report and recommendations, aiming for an earlier completion date than September as requested by the MP. This would help improve export opportunities.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister reassure Members from across the south-west that we will invest in digital and transport infrastructure, turbocharge opportunity and provide growth? To that effect, will he meet a delegation from the south-west to discuss opportunities?
Context
The south-west has often been overlooked. The Prime Minister is levelling up across the country.
Boris Johnson
We are allocating considerable sums for the maintenance and improvement of school estates, such as West Alvington Church of England Academy and Eden Park Primary and Nursery School. I will happily consult my diary.
Assessment
Specific meeting with delegation not confirmed
Session: PMQs
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Good governance means ensuring transparency. One concern of my constituents is whether GMC decisions can be appealed. Will the Minister reassure me that we can have better transparency in the GMC on the decisions it makes?
Context
Concerns about transparency in the General Medical Council's decision-making processes, particularly regarding appeal mechanisms.
Andrew Stephenson
The GMC and other professional regulators have a statutory duty to investigate any concerns about the fitness to practice of one of their registrants and to take appropriate action to protect the public when that is needed. The regulators are overseen by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care, which has the power to appeal cases where, in its view, a sanction imposed by a regulator is insufficient to protect the public.
Session: General Medical Council Oversight Mechanisms
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What assessment has been made of the adequacy of oversight mechanisms for the General Medical Council?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the adequacy of current governance and oversight for the General Medical Council.
Andrew Stephenson
The General Medical Council has been constituted by Parliament to ensure that decisions about individual doctors are independent of both the profession and the Government of the day. The Professional Standards Authority oversees the work of all United Kingdom professional regulators and reports to Parliament on their operational performance. Parliament continues to set and oversee the principles and scope of the regulators' powers.
Session: General Medical Council Oversight Mechanisms
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Has the Secretary of State recently spoken to the National Farmers Union? The farmers feel stuck without a clear plan under this administration. What is his strategy for addressing their concerns?
Context
Farmers are uncertain about future plans and government support.
Steve Barclay
I have met with the new president of the NFU, been on his farm, and had meetings with other key figures. My engagement is ongoing.
Session: Support for Farmers
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Will the Chancellor consider cutting VAT for the tourism and hospitality sector?
Context
The MP suggests cutting VAT for the tourism and hospitality sector to help economic recovery.
Jeremy Hunt
We will keep all measures under review ahead of the Budget, but no specific commitment was made regarding cutting VAT for the tourism and hospitality sector.
Session: Business Investment Fiscal Measures
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This week, Ian Perks had his entire shipment seized in France because he missed out a single word on the export health certificate. Can we find arbitration methods to speed up the process of challenging these situations?
Context
A constituent's entire shipment was seized in France due to a single word missing on the export health certificate, highlighting concerns about challenging such decisions.
Steve Barclay
I know my hon. Friend champions very strongly the farming and food sector in his constituency, and that he has raised this issue with my right hon. Friend the Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, who is actively engaged on it.
Session: Animal Welfare Standards Imports and Exports
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I welcome the Minister's response and his comments in a recent Westminster Hall debate. It is clear that there is still a problem, and many of us are still asking for the recovery plan to come forward. I am afraid that “soon” is not good enough. Nearly every single one of the NHS dentists in my constituency is either not taking on new patients or leaving the area. Can we have this plan either immediately or sooner?
Context
Following up on previous concerns, the questioner seeks a more specific timeline for the dental recovery plan due to continued issues with NHS dentists not taking on new patients or leaving their practices.
Neil O'Brien
We are working on all those ideas, and the plan will be out very shortly. We are already taking steps to reform the contract, including creating more bands for units of dental activity and introducing a minimum UDA value to sustain practices where it is low.
Session: Dental Recovery Plan
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When does he plan to publish a dental recovery plan given that nearly every single one of the NHS dentists in my constituency is either not taking on new patients or leaving the area?
Context
The question arises from ongoing concerns about dental services in the constituency, including issues with NHS dentists not taking on new patients or leaving the area.
Neil O'Brien
Our dental plan will be out shortly. We are already taking steps to reform the contract, including creating more bands for units of dental activity and introducing a minimum UDA value to sustain practices where it is low. As a result, dental activity has increased by about a fifth on a year ago.
Session: Dental Recovery Plan
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Will we look at how 200% council tax affects districts versus counties? Also, will we examine incentivising long-term landlords to ensure justice for them if section 21 is repealed?
Context
Concern about the impact of short-term rentals on local housing and the distribution of council taxes in non-unitary councils.
Rachel Maclean
The Government's progress on fair treatment for both landlords and tenants. We are bringing forward legislation that will balance the needs of both groups. Council tax issues are being discussed with the Treasury.
Session: Short and Long-term Rentals
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Whether his Department is taking steps to change the balance between short and long-term rentals. I am concerned about non-unitary councils where 92% of council tax goes to counties and only 8% to districts, affecting local housing needs. We need to incentivise long-term landlords without demonising them.
Context
Concern about the imbalance between short-term and long-term rental properties.
Rachel Maclean
We are consulting on a registration scheme for short-term lets, introducing use classes and permitted development rights. We aim to balance housing needs with tourism income. Council tax issues are being discussed with the Treasury.
Session: Short and Long-term Rentals
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Reconstruction of Ukraine will also require rehabilitating and helping women. In the wake of what we have done on preventing sexual violence in conflict, what steps will we now be able to take to help those who have been victims of sexual violence?
Context
Reconstruction efforts in Ukraine include addressing the needs of women who have been victims of sexual violence.
James Cleverly
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for work on preventing sexual violence in conflict. The UK has led campaigns in this area, and Lord Ahmad organised a conference last year. We must ensure perpetrators are held accountable and will work with international partners.
Session: Sanctioned Russian Assets
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Could the Minister outline how we can do better to support community land trusts in south Devon to build the houses that local people need, on a primary residency basis?
Context
The question highlights the potential of community-led housing initiatives to address local housing needs.
Rachel Maclean
The Government agree with the comments and recognise that the community-led housing sector offers significant potential. However, specific details on how to better support community land trusts in south Devon are not provided.
Session: Rural Areas Housing Provision
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What steps his Department is taking to support the provision of housing in rural areas. We want affordable homes available anywhere people need them, especially in rural communities with limited stock.
Context
The question addresses the lack of affordable homes in rural locations, where stock is limited and often difficult to replace.
Rachel Maclean
Our £11.5 billion affordable homes programme is delivering thousands of affordable homes across rural communities in England. This programme aims to support those who need them most, including in locations where stock is limited and often difficult to replace.
Session: Rural Areas Housing Provision
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Across Totnes and south Devon, small and medium-sized enterprises and local start-ups such as Oh4 are finding new ways to help to reduce household bills and energy costs. What steps is the Minister taking to co-operate with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and his colleagues to ensure that local authorities and housing agencies are using such organisations?
Context
The question discusses the efforts of small and medium-sized enterprises and local start-ups, such as Oh4 in Totnes and south Devon, to help reduce household bills and energy costs. The MP is seeking information on how the Minister plans to collaborate with other departments to support these organisations.
Paul Scully
It is great to hear stories of SMEs such as Oh4 in my hon. Friend's constituency finding those innovative solutions. The building regulations are set in performance terms and do not prescribe technologies, so local authorities and SMEs have flexibility. That encourages industry and SMEs such as Oh4 to continue pushing the boundaries, so that today's trailblazing examples of green innovation become the industry standards of tomorrow.
Session: Energy Efficiency Guidance to Homeowners
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What steps the Government are taking with (a) local authorities and (b) housing associations to provide guidance to homeowners on energy efficiency.
Context
The question addresses steps being taken by the government to provide homeowners with guidance on energy efficiency measures, specifically in collaboration with local authorities and housing associations.
Paul Scully
The Government have launched help for households on gov.uk, outlining the full range of support available to help with the cost of living. That includes a tool to help homeowners understand how to improve their home's energy efficiency and the grants available to them.
Session: Energy Efficiency Guidance to Homeowners
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A core tenet of our belief is to help everyone on to the housing ladder, so what assessment has the Minister made since the growth plan about helping people and areas to build houses for those who need and want them?
Context
Following the growth plan, concerns remain about helping people and areas to build houses for those in need.
Andrew Griffith
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities will make a statement to the House in the coming weeks.
Session: First-time Buyers Mortgages
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If he will take steps to help ensure mortgage products are available for first-time buyers in the context of the reduction in stamp duty announced in the growth plan 2022.
Context
The reduction in stamp duty announced in the growth plan 2022 has raised concerns about mortgage product availability for first-time buyers.
Andrew Griffith
This Government will back first-time buyers by increasing the level at which they start paying stamp duty. A young couple can now purchase a property for up to £425,000 without paying tax.
Session: First-time Buyers Mortgages
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The Agriculture Act 2020 states that the Secretary of State has to come before Parliament every three years to report on the UK's food security. Will he do so this autumn?
Context
The Agriculture Act 2020 requires the Secretary of State to report on UK food security every three years.
Ranil Jayawardena
Having been in the role just over 24 hours, I will review all my duties in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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What assessment has he made of the armed forces families strategy and how it will take account of greater opportunities outside military and impact on family life?
Context
The Minister is asked to assess the impact of voluntary outflow reasons on the armed forces families strategy.
Leo Docherty
The strategy is an important piece of work launched in January. We acknowledge the recruitment of personnel and retention of families, aiming to give them flexibility and choice, with updates planned.
Session: Topical Questions
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The school requires funding for new buildings instead of temporary repairs. Will the Schools Minister meet me to secure funds?
Context
Diptford Church of England Primary School is operating from a village hall due to damaged buildings. They require new permanent structures.
Robin Walker
I would be delighted to meet my hon. Friend.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Foreign Secretary agree that we need a new international mechanism for bringing perpetrators of sexual violence to justice? Is the UK prepared to lead such efforts?
Context
The effectiveness of the International Criminal Court and UN in dealing with sexual violence, suggesting a new international mechanism led by the UK.
Elizabeth Truss
We agree that bringing perpetrators to justice is crucial. We fund the ICC, collect evidence, work with Ukrainians. Ready to lead if needed at conference later this year on prevention of sexual violence.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Secretary of State tell us whether she is content for those sectors to just go down with the Brexit ship?
Context
The New Zealand trade deal's impact assessment acknowledged a £150 million hit to fishing, forestry, agriculture, and food manufacturing sectors as part of an economic adjustment process.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
The New Zealand free trade agreement will see bilateral trade increase by almost 60%, boosting the UK economy by nearly £1 billion in the next few years. It will offer new opportunities for smaller businesses to discover and grow into the New Zealand market, with advantages over international rivals.
Session: Trade Australia and New Zealand
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What steps are being taken to support pupils with ADHD and suspected ADHD so that they can learn effectively?
Context
A local ADHD support group reported delays in diagnoses and EHCPs, affecting children's learning experiences.
Will Quince
The SEND review aims to ensure pupils get appropriate support at the right time. The Minister is willing to meet the hon. Lady to discuss further.
Session: Children with SEND Access to Specialist Support
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The point and purpose of trade deals—I hope the Minister will agree—is that they are not static, and the forecasts are just an indication of what will come; they will be able to grow and develop. Can the Minister reassure the House that the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership offers an opportunity for the UK to expand its businesses and its exports across the country?
Context
The MP asked about the potential for UK businesses to expand their exports through the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership.
Ranil Jayawardena
My hon. Friend is of course right; the TPP offers a great opportunity to access a fast-growing part of the world as part of our Indo-Pacific tilt, as detailed in our integrated review. The opportunity to engage with this part of the world, where there is a growing middle class and increased demand for our products, goods and services, is one that we should seize.
Session: Free Trade Agreements
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Will the UK Government push for a resolution of the United Nations Human Rights Council to consider all ongoing human rights abuses in the Tigray region?
Context
The MP inquired about the UK Government's stance on pushing for a UNHRC resolution to address human rights abuses in Tigray, Ethiopia.
James Duddridge
We look at all options, including joint statements with G7 on 2 April and 2 May, and a communiqué from leaders on 13 June. We continue to work with UN colleagues.
Session: Sexual Violence in Conflict Ethiopia
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What steps have been taken to deploy personnel from the PSVI unit or team to Ethiopia?
Context
The MP asked about the deployment of personnel from the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict (PSVI) UK team to address humanitarian issues in Tigray, Ethiopia.
James Duddridge
An expert at PSVI was deployed to Ethiopia in June for a scoping mission. Recommendations will outline further support, including additional deployments.
Session: Sexual Violence in Conflict Ethiopia
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Is there any chance that FSA's recommendations can be brought forward ahead of September 2021?
Context
The Prime Minister mentioned accelerating the process, raising concerns about whether recommendations can be brought forward earlier than September 2021.
Victoria Prentis
The process is being accelerated but it must remain robust and fair. The Prime Minister and DEFRA are doing everything they can to speed up the process.
Session: Shellfish Industry
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What steps are being taken to support the shellfish industry in light of the European Commission's import ban?
Context
The EU ban on live bivalve molluscs from class B waters has affected the shellfish industry, prompting calls for support and clarification.
Victoria Prentis
The FSA has revised its shellfish waters classification process to ensure classifications are proportionate and pragmatic, providing high levels of public health protection.
Session: Shellfish Industry
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Next week the Food Standards Agency will produce its annual report and hold its annual general meeting. That report is likely to recommend significant changes regarding live bivalve molluscs, which have a huge impact on my constituency and on the health of the nation for those who eat seafood. Will the Minister commit that any changes recommended in the report next week will be brought forward in record time, so that they may be implemented quickly and we can secure the future of the seafood industry in the United Kingdom?
Context
The Food Standards Agency is due to produce its annual report next week, which may include significant changes affecting the seafood industry.
Jo Churchill
It is a change to be talking about a different sort of mussel in this place during Health questions. The Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my hon. Friend the Member for Banbury (Victoria Prentis) and I are well aware of the challenges that currently face the shellfish industry, and I thank my hon. Friend the Member for Totnes (Anthony Mangnall) for his dogged determination, especially on behalf of those businesses that rely on exports. We will continue to work closely with the FSA, which I know has been working hard to resolve these issues and make progress. I have been advised that there is potential for change to ensure that classifications are awarded in a proportionate and pragmatic way, while continuing to ensure high levels of public health protection.
Session: Food Standards Agency
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What recent (a) discussions and (b) meetings have you had with the Food Standards Agency?
Context
There are ongoing discussions and meetings between government officials and the Food Standards Agency on matters of common concern.
Jo Churchill
My ministerial colleagues and I are in regular contact with the Food Standards Agency on matters of common concern.
Session: Food Standards Agency
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Notwithstanding the Minister's incredibly helpful response, there are small businesses in the art and antiques market that are suffering from these teething problems, such as Dart Gallery in Dartmouth in my constituency. So what further steps are the Government going to take to ensure that there is a streamlined approach to exporting art and antiques in future years?
Context
Small businesses in the art and antique market, such as Dart Gallery in Dartmouth, are experiencing difficulties due to teething problems with exporting goods to EU countries.
Caroline Dinenage
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to champion the businesses in his constituency. We care deeply about supporting them. That is why the Secretary of State met representatives of the art market only earlier this month to discuss issues. We will continue to work closely with the sector to ensure that it can keep trading smoothly with the EU. We recognise that this means a period of change for business at a time when everyone has been responding to the unprecedented pressures of the pandemic, but this is an unparalleled opportunity for the UK to do business differently and prosper. We will continue to support businesses to allow them to take all the opportunities.
Session: Exports to EU Art and Antiques
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What steps his Department is taking to help ensure that art and antiques can be easily exported to EU countries?
Context
There are issues affecting small businesses in the art and antique market when exporting goods to EU countries. The question arises from concerns about delays and difficulties faced by these businesses.
Caroline Dinenage
The UK has one of the world's leading art markets and the free trade agreement we negotiated with the EU will allow it to flourish. We have taken steps to facilitate the export of cultural goods to EU countries. We have developed a new inland pre-clearance process for export licences for works of art, and we are digitising the export licensing system for cultural goods. Those steps will reduce border friction and avoid delays and security risks.
Session: Exports to EU Art and Antiques
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I declare my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests. I know that the Minister and the Secretary of State are fully aware of the problems faced by mollusc exporters from grade B waters, but are they aware of the scale? If we are to introduce innovative solutions, such as creating our own depuration plants, we need to be aware that these are sizeable operations and that businesses such as Offshore Shellfish, based in Brixham, need all the support they can get. Will the Minister take that into account and also meet that business and other organisations in my patch?
Context
Mollusc exporters based in Brixham, such as Offshore Shellfish, are facing issues due to restrictions on depuration plants.
Victoria Prentis
My hon. Friend and I have discussed the current completely unacceptable situation many times, particularly in respect of Offshore Shellfish in Brixham. There is no justification for the European Commission to ban our molluscs from class B waters, and we are seeking an urgent resolution of this dispute. We are willing to provide additional reassurances, but we ask the Commission to recognise the existing high standards and long history of trade between us. I am happy to meet the business as my hon. Friend suggests.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Government have made it clear that we must protect the reputation of organisations such as the UN Human Rights Council. Given our work on gender-based violence and the fact that next Monday is International Women's Day, I would be grateful for an update on what work is being undertaken on the preventing sexual violence in conflict initiative and what steps we might take to implement an international body that can support survivors, document crimes and lead prosecutions.
Context
The Government are committed to the PSVI, a program aimed at preventing and responding to conflict-related sexual violence.
Nigel Adams
The PSVI remains a top priority for the UK Government. Since its launch in 2012 we have committed £48 million and funded 85 projects across 29 countries to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence.
Session: Topical Questions
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When will the SPS and fishing trade committees be set up as required by the EU-UK trade deal? If the EU does not adhere to rules, will we restrict licenses for European vessels?
Context
Concern about the establishment of sanitary and phytosanitary trade committees under EU-UK trade deal.
Michael Gove
Difficulties and challenges exist but are being overcome. We will reserve our rights to ensure the EU upholds its side of the bargain.
Session: Trade UK and EU
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My constituency's LandWorks charity assists people at risk of prison or those recently released back into work and community life. With monthly prisoner releases unable to access universal credit and housing, will the Minister meet me to discuss improving access mechanisms for these individuals?
Context
LandWorks charity in Totnes helps individuals at risk of imprisonment or recently released to find jobs and reintegrate into the community. Many prisoners struggle with accessing universal credit and housing upon release.
Lucy Frazer (Minister of State for Prisons)
I would be happy to visit LandWorks before a formal meeting to discuss these issues, and I pay tribute to the work of LandWorks in Totnes. The issue of universal credit is fundamental, as are getting people into homes; we collaborate closely with the Department for Work and Pensions and the Secretary of State at the Department to ensure prison leavers can access universal credit promptly on release.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister look at local routes in my area, such as the 15 and 16 in and around Brixham, to see how we might extend them in the future, given the vital services they provide in a community that has few bus links?
Context
The MP inquired about the potential to extend specific bus routes, such as route 15 and 16 around Brixham, using a £5 billion package for buses including 4,000 energy-efficient models.
Andrew Stephenson
I understand that my hon. Friend recently met the Minister responsible for buses to discuss this very issue, and I pay tribute to him for the campaigning he does on behalf of his constituents. We are creating a £20 million rural mobility fund to support innovative solutions to transport problems in rural areas, and we will also be taking rural transport into account in the national bus strategy, which we aim to publish by the end of the year.
Session: Covid-19 Rural Bus Routes
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What assessment has been made of the effect of the COVID-19 outbreak on rural bus routes?
Context
The MP inquired about the impact of the ongoing pandemic on essential transportation services, particularly in rural areas.
Andrew Stephenson
The Department is working closely with local authorities and operators to ensure that the bus routes people most rely on continue to run throughout the pandemic.
Session: Covid-19 Rural Bus Routes
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What measures is he taking to assure headteachers that their budgets will not be depleted and they can recoup losses from PPE spending?
Context
Headteachers are alarmed about the financial strain caused by purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE).
Nick Gibb
Schools have continued to receive core funding and should use it for their covid-19 expenditure. They can also claim up to £75,000 for exceptional costs from March to July. Brixham College and King Edward VI Community College have applied for funds.
Session: Schools Covid-19 Costs
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The cancellation of the overseas loan service allowance has significantly financially disadvantaged service personnel. Additionally, there is concern that the local overseas allowance will now be paid at a reduced rate and overpayments are being clawed back since repatriation. As people are the military's greatest asset, what measures will be taken to address these issues?
Context
Inquiry into financial support provided to service personnel operating overseas during the pandemic, specifically regarding changes in allowances.
James Heappey (Minister for Defence People and Veterans)
The Department has prepared a long answer to match my hon. Friend's long question. The Secretary of State has just said he is gripping this.
Session: Overseas Personnel Covid-19 Support
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Mr. Norman, I welcome the Government's support for businesses and ask if you would meet me to discuss how we might close the loopholes that may be used by those who exploit current business rates?
Context
The Government have committed to review the effectiveness and operation of different reliefs in the business rates system.
Jesse Norman (Financial Secretary to the Treasury)
If there are people who are illegitimately taking advantage of loopholes in the rates, I am happy to discuss that. However, I remind my hon. Friend that there may well be circumstances in which people are in fact complying with the rules. It is a fiddly area, and I want to be certain that we are going after the people we should be going after.
Session: Business Rates Relief
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
RNLI Bicentenary
26 March 2024
Responding: Anthony Browne
Main Concerns
["The RNLI has a rich history of saving lives at sea and its bicentennial anniversary is being celebrated across the UK with various events. Despite facing numerous challenges, including oar-powered launches for almost 90 years and the sinking of lifeboats such as in Salcombe's tragic disaster in 1916, the organisation remains resilient. Today, the RNLI operates from over 238 stations and has saved nearly 150,000 lives."]
Specific Asks
["The House should recognise the RNLI's bicentennial anniversary and support its ongoing efforts to save lives at sea through volunteer work and fundraising activities. The debate aims to highlight the organisation's importance and celebrate its remarkable achievements over two centuries."]
A379 Slapton Line
06 March 2024
Responding: Guy Opperman
Main Concerns
["Mr Mangnall is concerned about the fragility of the A379 Slapton line, which is vital for south Devon's economy and way of life. He notes that the area has faced significant storms in recent years, including Storm Emma which caused damage to over 500 metres of road. The local community depends on the road, and its loss would impact more than 30,000 people living in the area along with thousands of local jobs and the £40 million gross value added economy."]
Specific Asks
["Mr Mangnall asks the Government to support Devon County Council's increased budget for highway maintenance fund to produce necessary reports at a cost of about £130,000 to £200,000. He also inquires whether Natural England can be flexible with application processes so that defence measures can be introduced promptly."]
Public Sector Food Procurement
12 December 2023
Responding: Mark Spencer
Main Concerns
['Since 1992, there have been 14 obesity strategies with hundreds of policies, but the UK remains the third fattest country in the G7. The quality and source of food we purchase can significantly impact health outcomes, as evidenced by numerous studies showing improved concentration and behavior in students when served high-quality meals. Furthermore, local producers are often unable to participate due to the complexity of procurement processes.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should set national targets for public sector food procurement to encourage the use of locally sourced, sustainable, higher-quality, healthier food from organic, regenerative or family-run farms and fisheries without contravening WTO standards. Introduce secondary legislation through section 107 of the Procurement Act 2023 to disapply section 17 of the Local Government Act 1988, which precludes local authorities from awarding public supply contracts based on supplier location.']
Volunteer Groups in Rural Settings
20 June 2023
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the significant role volunteer groups play in rural communities across south Devon and the UK. They support events, local services, and vital initiatives like LandWorks, which has a reoffending rate of only 6% compared to national averages of 36.7% for imprisonment and 28.8% for community sentences. The decline in volunteer numbers since the pandemic is also worrying, with statistics showing this trend.']
Specific Asks
["I ask the Minister to provide details on how much of the £5 million platinum jubilee village hall fund has been allocated and if any extension is being considered. Additionally, I want information on the UK search and rescue volunteer training fund's annual training numbers and bidding process efficiency. Lastly, I seek clarity on the future allocation of the volunteering futures fund to ensure certainty for local organizations."]
Shellfish Aquaculture — [Julie Elliott in the Chair]
15 March 2023
Responding: Mark Spencer
Main Concerns
["The UK's aquaculture sector has been overlooked and undervalued compared to European counterparts. Production of mussels and oysters in the UK has declined by 60% and nearly a third respectively over recent years. The lack of clarity around the status of Pacific oysters is hindering their farming, with Natural England advising against new or expanded farms north of the 52nd parallel. This decision will impact businesses in constituencies such as Totnes and potentially lead to closures."]
Specific Asks
['The Minister should push through recommendations from the Seafish report to improve classification protocols and allow for more flexible testing methods without compromising safety standards. The government must also address bureaucratic red tape, facilitate better relations with European partners, and ensure water quality improvement measures support aquaculture development.']
Trade Deals: Parliamentary Scrutiny
12 October 2022
Responding: Greg Hands
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the lack of transparency and clarity in the Government's approach to trade deals. He highlights that since leaving the EU, the UK has signed numerous trade agreements but there have been issues with parliamentary scrutiny. The International Trade Committee should be given more time before CRaG periods start, and Members from across the House should have an opportunity to read reports and debate trade deals in Parliament."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks for a guarantee that a Secretary of State will appear before the International Trade Committee to discuss a trade deal ahead of their publication of any report on it. He also suggests amending CRaG to include debates and voteable motions so MPs can have opportunities to debate these agreements.']
Inshore Fishing Fleet
14 June 2022
Responding: Victoria Prentis
Main Concerns
['Mr. Mangnall is concerned about the rising impact of fuel prices on UK fishing fleets, with estimates suggesting that two thirds of the fleet might not be able to cover operational costs and half could drop into negative operating profits under the worst-case scenario. He also highlights issues related to new Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) safety codes causing significant concern among fishermen, the spatial squeeze impacting historical fishing grounds, and the implementation of technology such as inshore vessel monitoring systems that may not be suitable for smaller vessels.']
Specific Asks
['Mr. Mangnall proposes repurposing the £100 million UK seafood fund to support green technology retrofits on vessels without match funding requirements. He also suggests amending the super-deduction scheme to help with vessel machinery retrofitting and upgrading to make it greener and more fuel-efficient.']
Organ Donation and Transplantation Strategy
23 February 2022
Responding: Maria Caulfield
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the significant increase in potential organ donors while a small percentage of people have opted out. There are 6,157 individuals waiting for an organ transplant in the UK and 474 people died while on the active waiting list between April 2020 and March 2021. Families refusing to support 32% of potential donations due to uncertainty about a patient's wishes is also concerning."]
Specific Asks
["I ask the Minister what plans are in place to continue raising awareness of the organ donor register and if she would consider extending the scheme to include other official forms like signing up to the electoral roll or giving blood. Furthermore, I inquire how the six key points outlined in 'Organ Donation and Transplantation 2030' will be monitored and reviewed."]
Regenerative Farming and Climate Change
19 October 2021
Responding: Victoria Prentis
Main Concerns
['Farming in the UK is at a crossroads due to the transition from the basic payment scheme to the environmental land management scheme (ELMS). The method through which farmers are subsidised and supported is changing fundamentally, aiming for public money for public good. However, this shift comes with significant challenges such as addressing climate change, upskilling, measuring carbon sequestration, and ensuring food security. Intensive farming has led to issues like flood events, topsoil loss, pesticide resistance, and plateauing yields despite higher inputs.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should provide clarity on the new subsidy scheme (ELMS), support farmers in upskilling through agricultural colleges and university courses, establish standards for measuring soil carbon sequestration, encourage private sector involvement with fair verification systems, and foster collaboration between water companies, farmers, and other businesses to promote environmentally friendly farming practices.']
South West Water: Brixham Contamination
20 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Coronavirus Act 2020 - Schedule 5 - Application of Chapter 1 of Part 1 to existing tenancies: transitional provision
24 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Jacob Young, the Member for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, moved that the clause be read a Second time. The specific amendment proposed in this speech does not provide detailed arguments but can be...
Smoking Reduction and Tobacco Control Bill - Clause 1
16 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the Bill, stating its purpose is to prevent future generations from starting smoking. Argues that the only product that kills two thirds of its long-term users if consumed as intended is tobacco...
Not specified in this excerpt - New Clause 12
19 March 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The lead MP proposes New Clause 12 to require an impact assessment of the effects on UK performers' rights. The amendment aims to ensure that the bill considers and protects the interests of performer...
Finance Bill (not specified in provided text) - Schedule 6 - Administration of creative sector reliefs, New clauses 1 to 7
05 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate involves several new clauses proposed by Mr. Nigel Huddleston and Mr. Roger Gale, aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within the Finance Bill. They propose a series of review...
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (Implementing) Bill - Opening debate on the CPTPP Implementation Bill
29 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The UK's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership will boost trade flows, benefiting businesses and consumers by reducing tariffs and increasing market ac...
Situation in the Red Sea
24 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The situation in the Red Sea is increasingly dangerous due to attacks by Houthi proxies supported by Iran. These attacks are threatening global trade, with over $1 trillion worth of goods passing thro...
Tributes to Sir Tony Lloyd
23 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Honoured the memory of Sir Tony Lloyd, a long-serving MP who was dedicated to public service and international affairs. Mentioned his contributions as shadow Foreign Affairs Minister, Member for Stret...
Action Against Houthi Maritime Attacks
23 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defending the UK and Allies
15 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
6
PMQs Asked
43
Ministerial Questions Asked
112
House of Commons Debates Involved
12
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
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+221% above average
This MP:
43
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+377% above average
This MP:
12
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2205% above average
This MP:
112
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 Anthony Mangnall's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.