Giles Watling
MP for Clacton
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I am concerned about my constituents facing a tough time with the cost of living. Does my right hon. Friend agree that cutting inflation is the best way to address this issue, and can he assure them that he will continue working hard to bring down inflation as low as possible?
Context
The MP references the ongoing challenges faced by constituents in Clacton regarding the cost of living.
Rishi Sunak
Today's figures show that our plan is working. Inflation has fallen to 3.4% from its peak of over 11%, down by almost 70%—the steepest fall since the 1980s, and now at the lowest level since September 2021—and people's pay packets are going further, with real wages growing for eight months in a row and taxes being cut by £900 for the average worker. That is why we need to stick to the plan to deliver a brighter future for our country.
Session: PMQs
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I am certain that everyone in this Chamber will agree, whatever their political standpoint, that we should be able to think, speak and vote without fear or favour, but today I need to ask about the painful subject of dental care in Clacton, which is in crisis. Our integrated care system has found the money, and a private firm has found the students, to massively increase dental appointments in my patch, but paper-pushers in NHS England keep citing spurious reasons to prevent this groundbreaking initiative from being deployed. Does my right hon. Friend agree that is scandalous, should be dealt with and those people blocking it held to account?
Context
The local integrated care system and a private firm have found ways to increase dental appointments, but NHS England has cited spurious reasons to prevent the initiative from being deployed.
Rishi Sunak
Our dentistry recovery plan will make dental services faster, simpler and fairer for patients, including in Clacton, and will fund around 2.5 million more appointments. The matter that my hon. Friend raises, as he will know, is a local matter, so the integrated care board will determine whether it wishes to support the pilot proposal in Clacton, but I know that the Minister for Public Health, my right hon. Friend the Member for South Northamptonshire (Dame Andrea Leadsom) has written to my hon. Friend about the proposal, and I hope that her letter addresses his concerns.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not directly address whether NHS England's actions were scandalous or if those responsible should be held accountable.
Local Matter
Minister For Public Health Has Written To My Hon. Friend
Session: PMQs
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The British people are relying on our party and the Government to fulfil their promises on levelling up. Does my right hon. Friend agree that the Felixstowe and Harwich freeport plan will be judged as a historic failure unless it succeeds in levelling up a deprived ward in my constituency? Will he join me in Clacton to kick-start that plan? Will he also commit to come to the tendering showcase currently in the Jubilee room until 2.30 this afternoon?
Context
There are expectations that the freeport plan in Felixstowe and Harwich will deliver economic benefits, particularly to a deprived ward in the constituency of Clacton. The questioner seeks government support for this initiative.
Rishi Sunak
That sounds like an appealing invitation. I agree with my hon. Friend that levelling up has to deliver for communities in every corner of the United Kingdom, including southern coastal communities. He knows that I am a champion of freeports, and I look forward to working with him to see how we can best realise their benefits in his area.
Assessment
Commitment to attend events in Clacton
That Sounds Like An Appealing Invitation.
Session: PMQs
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that, as the UK's performing arts are a global gold standard that are not only the envy of the world but a vital showcase for UK plc across the world, we should treasure them and look after that industry? We have had the furlough and other job retention schemes, but those who have fallen through the cracks are the freelancers. We must do something to protect the freelancers—the actors, the costumiers, the prop makers and many others. Can we do something to look after those people?
Context
The UK's performing arts industry is a global gold standard but has been hit hard by the pandemic, particularly freelancers.
Boris Johnson
That is a very important point. Obviously the job retention scheme has been very effective in keeping people in work, but there are of course people who do not have employment of that kind. That is why we have given £1.57 billion to support the creative, culture and media sectors, including the theatres. We will do whatever we can to support the freelancers who my hon. Friend describes, because they are the backbone of our theatrical world, which, as he knows, is the jewel in the crown of the London cultural economy.
Session: PMQs
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I have been saying for some time in this place, and many other places, that a combined effort between French and English forces would be very useful on the ground in France to stop the boats from even getting to the beaches in the first place. We have the technology and we can destroy the boats; I do not see why we do not do that. My right hon. Friend the Member for Gainsborough (Sir Edward Leigh) and I wish to visit Calais to meet the mayor to discuss that idea. Will my right hon. Friend join us?
Context
The MP proposes a joint effort between UK and French forces to prevent boats from reaching the beaches in France.
Andrew Mitchell
That is an unbelievably tempting invitation from my hon. Friend. Recently, we have seen a 120% increase in French troops on the ground and a 36% reduction in the number of migrants coming across compared with last year, so French troops on the ground are delivering what is required, at least in part.
Session: Illegal Migration International Co-operation
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What diplomatic steps he is taking to strengthen international co-operation on tackling illegal migration?
Context
The MP is concerned about the need to strengthen international cooperation in addressing irregular migration.
Andrew Mitchell
Tackling irregular migration is a priority for Foreign Office engagement across our overseas networks, through international forums, including at the G7 and European Political Community, and bilaterally.
Session: Illegal Migration International Co-operation
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While welcoming the progressive tax breaks for our incredible film industry, it would appear that our far-reaching, high-end television offer has been left behind in the recent Budget. Does my right hon. Friend have plans to redress this deficit to ensure that the UK remains first on screens around the world?
Context
The MP is concerned that despite positive tax breaks for the film industry, there are no comparable measures for the high-end television sector.
Jeremy Hunt
No one knows more about high-end TV than my hon. Friend. Whoever said that politics is showbusiness for ugly people was absolutely wrong in his case. I will take away what he says and consider high-end television as a potential future Budget measure.
Session: Creative Industries
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What fiscal steps he is taking to support creative industries?
Context
The MP is seeking information on government actions to aid the financial health of UK's creative sectors.
Jeremy Hunt
At the spring Budget, the Government announced a package of tax reliefs for our world-leading creative industries worth £1 billion over the next five years, including a 40% relief on business rates for eligible film studios in England and enhanced tax reliefs for visual effects.
Session: Creative Industries
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I thank my hon. Friend for his answer, delighted that we have been able to bring £78 million of investment to Clacton through the Freeports initiative. However, bus services in the area need improvement. Will he support a campaign to improve public transport connectivity across Tendring district?
Context
The MP expressed satisfaction with £78 million of levelling-up funding for Clacton and raised concerns about bus service connectivity.
Jacob Young
I am more than happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss his campaign. Buses are the most popular form of public transport in our country and a vital part of our national transport system. I acknowledge the huge amount of levelling-up funding going into Clacton and am keen to work with him to help people in Jaywick.
Session: Levelling-up Fund
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What assessment has been made of the impact of the levelling-up fund on local communities?
Context
The MP inquired about the impact of the £4.8 billion levelling-up fund on local communities.
Jacob Young
We are transforming communities across the UK through our £4.8 billion levelling-up fund, improving transport, regenerating high streets and rebuilding pride in place.
Session: Levelling-up Fund
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I thank my right hon. Friend for his answer. AUKUS is a bold project that rightfully identifies the greater need for co-operation in the Pacific between our great nations. However, I do not think that it should be limited just to defence. In my own report for the 1922 foreign affairs policy committee, we found that there is not only a need, but an appetite for wider scope—the inclusion of Canada, for example. Does my right hon. Friend agree that AUKUS cannot just be about defence policy. Will we be reaping the maximum benefits for Britain by consigning this to be just a defence procurement exercise? Where is the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in all of this?
Context
The MP discusses the potential broader implications of AUKUS beyond defense, including economic cooperation with other nations such as Canada. He seeks clarity on how Britain can maximize benefits through this initiative.
Grant Shapps
My hon. Friend is right to say that AUKUS can and should be a programme that extends beyond the three core nations—the UK, the US, and Australia—but that is very much a matter for pillar 2 arrangements rather than pillar 1, which the House will know is about the nuclear-powered submarine for Australia and the joint procurement. He will be pleased to hear that, in November, I was in the US signing up to a programme of pillar 2 work, which could ultimately extend to others, including Canada and New Zealand.
Session: AUKUS
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I thank my right hon. Friend for her answer. Following my very productive meeting with her only a few days ago, will she confirm that NHS England locally has finally been unblocked and that my constituents in Clacton will soon benefit from more dentists practising on NHS patients?
Context
Following a meeting with the Minister, the MP questions whether NHS England locally has been unblocked for his constituents to benefit from more dentists practising on NHS patients.
Andrea Leadsom
As my hon. Friend will know, this is a local matter and it is for his ICB to determine whether it wishes to support the pilot proposal for overseas dental students in Clacton. At the same time, it needs to ensure that its actions are compliant with current legislation.
Session: Accessibility to Dental Services
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We have given away over the decades the massive advantage this country had with the Calder Hall development in 1956, so will my hon. Friend reassure me that we will regain that ground by pushing for more rapid development of a sensible nature, as the Finns have with their hole in the ground for storing nuclear waste? Will he inform the House with which nuclear vendors the Department is engaging?
Context
Discussion about regaining the nuclear advantage lost over decades and international engagement.
Andrew Bowie
My hon. Friend is right to refer to the proud history we have in this country when it comes to civil nuclear—the developments at Calder Hall led the world—and the deep geological disposal that is happening in Finland right now. The plans in our nuclear road map will quadruple nuclear capacity by 2050. We are making rapid progress on Sizewell C and the SMR competition. We continue to work closely with countries such as Finland, with which I engage with regularly.
Session: Nuclear Energy Sector
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What steps she is taking to increase nuclear energy capacity?
Context
The question stems from the need to increase nuclear energy capacity in response to growing energy demands and climate change concerns.
Andrew Bowie
Last week, I announced the biggest expansion of nuclear power for 70 years. We will deploy a fleet of small modular reactors and build up to 24 GW of nuclear by 2050. This will ensure we have reliable, cheap and low-carbon power to protect consumers from price volatility and hostile foreign regimes, bolstering our energy security.
Session: Nuclear Energy Sector
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In light of the Post Office scandal, does my hon. Friend agree that it is imperative to clear the backlog as quickly as possible because deaths are involved? Should we enable the Justice Secretary to strip the Post Office of its powers to independently prosecute?
Context
The Post Office scandal has raised concerns about the independence of public prosecutions, particularly in relation to clearing backlogs.
Mike Freer
My hon. Friend raises a good point, acknowledging that swift delivery of justice is vital. We are doing all we can to ensure cases are heard more swiftly, working on clearing names of postmasters quickly and considering findings from Sir Wyn Williams's inquiry.
Session: Crown Court Case Backlog
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What steps he is taking to reduce the backlog of cases in the Crown court. In light of significant delays and a rising caseload, what specific measures are being implemented?
Context
The question pertains to the increasing backlog of cases in the Crown court, causing concern among those involved.
Mike Freer
We remain committed to reducing the outstanding caseload in the Crown court and have introduced a range of measures, including funding over 100,000 sitting days in the last financial year with plans for similar this year. We expect to recruit more than 1,000 judges across all jurisdictions due to our investment in judicial recruitment. Additionally, we are investing over £220 million over the next two years not only for maintenance but also to ensure that fewer courts are taken out of action.
Session: Crown Court Case Backlog
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I have called for the old Bradwell site on the Dengie peninsula to be used for the arrival of undersea cables, as opposed to wrecking the environment of Essex and other areas with substations, pylons and so on. With the scrapping of High Speed 2 as an example, does my hon. Friend agree that public bodies now need to do a better job of assessing possible alternatives, instead of just barrelling forward with boatloads of taxpayers' cash and destroying our beautiful countryside?
Context
The MP is calling for the Bradwell site on the Dengie peninsula to be used as an alternative location for the arrival of undersea cables instead of other locations that would damage the environment.
Andrew Bowie
I thank my hon. Friend for that question. As he knows from when we met to discuss this in June, the Electricity System Operator is responsible for planning the design and location of grid reinforcement, while transmission owners develop individual projects. I understand that Bradwell had been assessed but was not deemed appropriate for this project. However, I cannot comment on specific projects, in order to avoid prejudicing planning decisions.
Session: National Grid Infrastructure East of England
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What discussions she has had with National Grid on its planned timetable for building new substations, pylons and cabling in the east of England?
Context
Discussions around the planned timetable for building new substations, pylons and cabling in the east of England by National Grid.
Andrew Bowie
I frequently meet the network companies to discuss their important work developing our electricity transmission network. I have also been pleased to meet communities and MPs from East Anglia to discuss concerns about network infrastructure. However, as the decision maker for planning consents, the Department does not get involved in individual projects.
Session: National Grid Infrastructure East of England
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I am very grateful to my right hon. and learned Friend for his work on Albania, illegal migrants and returning offenders. We pay £40,000 a year to maintain a prisoner in their cell and we do that for foreign prisoners, too. Will my right hon. and learned Friend seek to make more arrangements with other countries to return their offenders, thus saving the taxpayer money?
Context
The question is about the cost effectiveness of transferring prisoners to their home countries and seeks more such arrangements.
Alex Chalk
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. It is an expensive business to incarcerate people. The UK has over 100 prisoner transfer agreements. We are working hard to ensure that existing PTAs work as effectively as possible and deliver value for money for the taxpayer by removing FNOs to their home countries. My Department also has ambitions to secure PTAs with new countries. We are engaging with our counterparts in target countries to advance that. I will update the House in due course.
Session: Prisoner Transfers Albania
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Last Friday, I was fortunate enough to visit the outer Greater Gabbard wind farm array with my constituency neighbour, my hon. Friend the Member for Harwich and North Essex (Sir Bernard Jenkin). We sailed right out among the wind turbines. The plan is to bring the power ashore in my constituency of Clacton, but that does not make sense to me. I do not understand why the power cannot be brought ashore to the decommissioned Bradwell nuclear power station on the Dengie peninsular—no need for more pylons or substations; upgrade what is there. Will the Minister ask National Grid why it is insisting on spoiling untouched beautiful countryside in the Tendring peninsular and putting more pylons across the Essex countryside?
Context
Discussion about the routing of power from wind farms to shore.
Graham Stuart
Thank you, Mr Speaker. I will ask the Minister who leads on networks, my hon. Friend the Member for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine (Andrew Bowie), to get in touch with my hon. Friend to discuss that further.
Session: Green Industries Jobs
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I recently attended the wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph commemorating the Armenian genocide 108 years ago. I was with His Excellency Varuzhan Nersesyan, the Armenian ambassador. With that in mind, can my hon. Friend tell me why the United Kingdom has not yet formally recognised the genocide, as many other countries have done?
Context
The MP attended a wreath-laying ceremony commemorating the Armenian genocide and inquired about UK's stance on formal recognition.
Leo Docherty
Of course, it is a very sensitive subject, but the policy of the UK Government is that recognition of genocide is a matter for judicial decision rather than for Governments or non-judicial bodies. When an international legal body makes a judgment that the crime constitutes a genocide, that is a deciding factor in whether we use that term.
Session: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict
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What recent assessment has he made of the implications for his policies of the ongoing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict?
Context
The MP inquires about the implications of the ongoing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict for UK policies.
Leo Docherty
The UK values our relationships with both Armenia and Azerbaijan, and we work together on shared interests to advance regional stability, security and prosperity. There is no military solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. We continue to urge the parties to engage in substantive negotiations to secure a sustainable and peaceful settlement.
Session: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict
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Will she commit to meeting Baton of Hope to further its efforts to improve children's access to mental health support?
Context
The question stems from the need for further mental health support efforts and awareness.
Gillian Keegan
We are working closely with the Department of Health and Social Care on reducing youth suicides. We will publish a new suicide prevention strategy this year. I met Mike McCarthy from Baton of Hope when I was Minister for care and mental health, and my successor would welcome its input.
Session: Mental Health Training in Schools
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What steps her Department is taking to increase mental health training in schools. More than half of all state schools and colleges have received senior mental health lead training since September 2021, with teams increasing from 287 in 2022 to 400 in 2023.
Context
The question arises from efforts to improve mental health services for school children.
Gillian Keegan
My Department is helping schools develop effective approaches by offering senior mental health lead training. Over half of state schools and colleges have received this since September 2021. Mental health support teams are increasing from 287 in 2022 to 400 in 2023, with plans for 500 in 2024.
Session: Mental Health Training in Schools
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What assessment has been made of the potential merits of establishing a trade envoy for the Commonwealth. As chairman of the 1922 committee's Back-Bench foreign affairs policy committee, I recently shared our report with ministerial colleagues. One of its recommendations was the creation of a Commonwealth-specific trade envoy post. Does my hon. Friend agree that in this post-Brexit era, increasing trade and movement between the Commonwealth and the UK should be a top priority to foster economic growth?
Context
The MP inquired about the potential benefits of establishing a Commonwealth-specific trade envoy position, suggesting it could enhance economic ties post-Brexit.
Nigel Huddleston
The countries of the Commonwealth are important trading partners. Our total trading relationship was worth more than £146 billion in the 2022 financial year, and my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has already appointed trade envoys to 15 Commonwealth nations. We have trade agreements with 33 Commonwealth members, five of which are part of the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership.
Session: Trade Envoy for the Commonwealth
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What assessment has been made of the potential merits of establishing a trade envoy for the Commonwealth. As chairman of the 1922 committee's Back-Bench foreign affairs policy committee, I recently shared our report with ministerial colleagues. One of its recommendations was the creation of a Commonwealth-specific trade envoy post. Does my hon. Friend agree that in this post-Brexit era, increasing trade and movement between the Commonwealth and the UK should be a top priority to foster economic growth?
Context
The MP inquired about the potential benefits of establishing a Commonwealth-specific trade envoy position, suggesting it could enhance economic ties post-Brexit.
Nigel Huddleston
Yes, I am afraid that those jobs are at the discretion of the Prime Minister. We already have extensive coverage through the existing network but review it regularly because we are committed to working with our allies in the Commonwealth to remove barriers to trade and strengthen trading relationships. Trade increased by 25% in the year to September 2022. Our new global immigration system supports trade, economic growth, and movement of business people on a temporary basis which promotes and supports trade in services and goods and investment activities.
Session: Trade Envoy for the Commonwealth
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Can my right hon. Friend update the House on trade envoy positions? Following my recent Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office report on the Commonwealth, which I am sure he has read, will there be a specific trade envoy position for the Commonwealth family of nations?
Context
Concern about specific trade envoy position for the Commonwealth family of nations.
Greg Hands
We already have a trade envoy appointed to 15 Commonwealth nations. We have no plans to add a dedicated Commonwealth trade envoy to the programme. We have trade agreements with 33 Commonwealth members, with a further 16 benefiting from reduced tariffs, and six of the 11 trans-Pacific partnership countries are Commonwealth members.
Session: Topical Questions
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One pledge in our 2019 manifesto was the introduction of an arts premium. The British arts are central to our soft power projection across the globe and they start in the classroom. I will be teaching an acting class in Clacton very soon; can the Minister tell me that there will be a commitment to an arts premium or an arts-specific package?
Context
The British arts are central to soft power and should be a key part of the curriculum.
Nick Gibb
The arts and music are an essential part of a broad and balanced curriculum. That is why we have published, for example, a detailed model music curriculum based on best practice.
Session: Topical Questions
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Despite recent financial upheavals, does my hon. Friend agree that we must maintain our focus on growth by keeping a firm lid on corporation tax?
Context
Concern about the high rate of corporation tax potentially hampering competitiveness and growth for UK businesses.
Andrew Griffith
I can assure my hon. Friend that the Government are on the side of small businesses and fiscal responsibly, and the introduction of the small profits rate will help the businesses that he talks about.
Session: Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
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What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to reduce red tape for small and medium-sized enterprises?
Context
The MP inquires about steps being taken to reduce bureaucratic burdens on small and medium-sized enterprises.
Andrew Griffith
The Government are rightly reducing the burden of regulation for tens of thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises. Just a month ago, the presumption of exemption when Departments make regulations was extended from businesses with fewer than 50 employees to those with fewer than 500, and we expect 40,000 SMEs to benefit from that.
Session: Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
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I thank my hon. Friend for his answer, and it is good to see my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and the team on the Front Bench. I have been fortunate enough to work in all four corners of this great Union—and Cornwall; my hon. Friend the Member for St Austell and Newquay (Steve Double) is no longer in his place. We have fought shoulder to shoulder for freedom and democracy all over the world, not least at Waterloo and the landing beaches of Normandy. Does my hon. Friend agree that it would be foolish to let this great and successful Union fall apart on a whim, with the aid of the likes of Mel Gibson? Should there not be a legislated timeframe—say, 25 years—before another referendum can be held?
Context
The question discusses the importance of maintaining a strong Union, referencing historical events like Waterloo and Normandy.
Brendan Clarke-Smith
I thank my hon. Friend for his excellent and, as always, good-humoured point. People across Scotland want both their Governments to be working together and focusing their attention and resources on the issues that matter to them, not talking about yet another independence referendum.
Session: Strengthening the Union
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It is obviously important that all the evidence the Ukrainians are gathering to seek out those who have carried out crimes is collated quickly. Is there any help that our Government can give the Ukrainians to do that? It is so important that those people are held accountable before the courts sooner rather than later. What can be done to expedite the process?
Context
The MP emphasises the urgency of collecting and collating evidence from war crimes in Ukraine. He asks if there are specific steps the Government can take to expedite this process.
Michael Ellis
Justice delayed is justice denied, and that is as accurate today as it ever was. We have to move at pace, while getting it right, and collating the evidence is important. I can tell the hon. Gentleman that we are doing everything we can to support the Ukrainians in every conceivable way, including in this area.
Session: Ukraine Potential Russian War Crimes
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I thank the Attorney General for his answer. This abhorrent invasion is no longer focused on by the media as it should be, and there are atrocities going on every day. Does he agree that every crime committed by Russian soldiers must be taken into consideration and people must be held to account, as must their leader, Mr Putin?
Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of media focus on ongoing atrocities committed by Russian soldiers in Ukraine. He seeks clarity on whether all crimes must be taken into account and if Mr Putin should also face accountability.
Michael Ellis
I thank my hon. Friend for his question, and he is right. The Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group was launched on 25 May by the EU, the US and the UK to ensure efficient co-ordination of respective efforts. It is a very complicated area, but we want to support accountability efforts on the ground. My colleague in the other place, Lord Ahmad, has already announced £2.5 million of UK support for that initiative and for elements of that organisation, including the deployment of mobile justice teams, and training for judges is already under way.
Session: Ukraine Potential Russian War Crimes
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I thank the Minister of State for her recent response regarding the much needed upgrade of Haughley junction. I am sure that those on the Front Bench will be fed up with me banging on about this, but will the Secretary of State commit, right now, to upgrading Haughley and other important connectivity junctions in the east, such as Ely, so that we do not lose out on the levelling-up agenda?
Context
The hon. Friend has raised concerns about upgrading Haughley junction, an important connectivity point in the east.
Wendy Morton
I have spoken to my hon. Friend several times, including recently, about that scheme, and he is a keen campaigner for getting faster and more reliable trains from Clacton to London. We want to provide as much certainty as possible on rail enhancements, and we will set out our plans, including our proposals on Haughley junction, in the upcoming update to the rail network enhancement pipeline.
Session: Topical Questions
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With the EU leading the charge to support Ukraine and combat Putin's horrific invasion, does my hon. Friend agree that the next Secretary-General of NATO should be, if not British, from a nation with real skin in the game such as Poland?
Context
The MP is interested in the next NATO Secretary-General's suitability based on their involvement with Ukraine.
James Heappey
You will not be surprised, Mr Speaker, to know that I think there are a number of excellent candidates to be the next NATO Secretary General, and I absolutely agree that those who have been to the fore during the response to Ukraine and who have skin in the game, as my hon. Friend says, should be leading contenders.
Session: NATO Effectiveness
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What recent assessment has his Department made of the effectiveness of NATO in safeguarding the freedom and security of its members by political and military means?
Context
The MP is concerned about the current state of NATO's effectiveness in safeguarding its members' freedom and security.
James Heappey
NATO remains the cornerstone of the UK's defence and security. All allies stand steadfast to defend and deter threats to the Euro-Atlantic, underlined by our unwavering collective commitment to article 5 of the Washington treaty.
Session: NATO Effectiveness
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With daily cyber-attacks against this place as well as institutions and companies across the country, what are we doing to stem the tide of aggression from Russia?
Context
Cyber-attacks have become a daily occurrence against various entities in the UK, causing significant concern about security.
Steve Barclay
My hon. Friend raises an important point. We are spending £2.6 billion over the next three years to counter that threat. That is additional to the significant funding going into the National Cyber Force, which gives us offensive capability as well. Alongside that, we have a whole of society approach as set out in our national cyber strategy.
Session: Russian Invasion of Ukraine Global Cyber Threat
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Will he commit to working with the cryptocurrency sector and the UK Cryptoasset Business Council to ensure that the UK's future regulatory parameter can instil a global advantage?
Context
The MP seeks clarification on the government's plans to work closely with the cryptocurrency industry.
John Glen
Yes, absolutely. My officials are meeting the Cryptoasset Business Council later this week. We want to take a dynamic approach to industry engagement and work closely with similar organisations as we aim for global leadership.
Session: Cryptocurrency Companies in the UK
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What steps he is taking to encourage cryptocurrency companies to operate in the UK?
Context
The MP is concerned about the growth of the cryptocurrency sector and its potential benefits for the UK economy.
John Glen
At Fintech Week on 4 April, I set out our firm ambition to make Britain a global hub for cryptoasset technology. This includes consulting on a future regulatory regime later this year, legislating to bring stablecoins into payments regulation, and exploring ways to enhance the competitiveness of the UK tax system.
Session: Cryptocurrency Companies in the UK
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I thank my hon. Friend for her answer—I am normally heard wherever I go. With the recent royal tour of the Caribbean and the Prime Minister's visit to India in mind, does she agree that, in this post-Brexit world, we should make the strengthening of the Commonwealth—that great family of democracies—a top priority? The questioner highlights the significance of enhancing relationships with Commonwealth nations as a strategic move following Brexit.
Context
The question follows a royal tour of the Caribbean and the Prime Minister's visit to India, highlighting the strategic importance of strengthening ties with Commonwealth countries post-Brexit.
Vicky Ford
I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend and Essex neighbour about the importance of the Commonwealth. We are committed to deepening our ties with all Commonwealth countries, including on trade. Free trade agreements have already been signed with Australia and New Zealand, with one expected this year with India. Economic partnerships exist with 27 Commonwealth countries. The government is working closely with many Commonwealth partners on global challenges such as climate and health, underpinned by over half a billion pounds of international investment.
Session: Commonwealth Countries
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What diplomatic steps she is taking to strengthen relationships with Commonwealth countries. The question focuses on the importance of diplomatic actions to enhance collaboration within the Commonwealth, particularly following significant visits by UK officials to various Commonwealth nations.
Context
The question arises from the UK's role as Commonwealth chair and recent high-level diplomatic visits to Commonwealth countries such as India.
Vicky Ford
The UK has been an energetic Commonwealth chair in office, working to strengthen collaboration and co-ordination right across our Commonwealth family, including on recovery from covid, trade, investment and climate. Last week, the Prime Minister visited India, while the Foreign Secretary also visited Australia among other nations. The answerer herself has visited South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Lesotho and Eswatini.
Session: Commonwealth Countries
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We have exited the EU and regained control, but I fear we have lost a lot in terms of trade and unity. Does my right hon. Friend agree that we should explore new avenues of trade, such as through the Commonwealth?
Context
Post-Brexit considerations for exploring new trade opportunities, particularly with the Commonwealth.
Steve Barclay
I concur with my hon. Friend that the Commonwealth is of huge importance. He is right to highlight that, but it fits within the wider strategy of the integrated review as part of global Britain.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why will the Chancellor not make North sea oil and gas companies pay their fair share of taxes to tackle the enormous cost of living crisis?
Context
Millions are worried about soaring bills, while BP has compared its record profits from inflated prices to a cash machine.
Rishi Sunak
Oil and gas companies are taxed at double the rate of all other companies. There are billions of pounds of projects waiting to be unlocked.
Session: Topical Questions
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With the NATO leadership set to change this September, does my right hon. Friend think it apposite that the leadership should go to a representative from a country that actually meets its defence spending commitments, which are vital to repel aggression from states such as Russia?
Context
The NATO leadership is set to change this September.
James Cleverly
The UK is proud to be a long-standing—indeed, founding—member of NATO and to consistently meet its 2% target. NATO remains one of the most important institutions for Euro-Atlantic security and it is incredibly important that its future leadership recognises not only traditional threats, as we now see on Ukraine's borders, but emerging threats such as cyber, space and other realms of conflict.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Importation and Sale of Foie Gras
24 October 2023
Responding: Rebecca Pow
Main Concerns
['Giles Watling is concerned about the cruelty involved in producing foie gras through forced feeding, which results in birds suffering and potential health risks. He cites disease outbreaks in France due to intensive farming conditions and highlights that public opinion strongly supports a ban, with over 280,000 signatures on a petition.']
Specific Asks
['Giles Watling urges the Government to ban the importation and sale of foie gras produced by force feeding. He suggests this would improve animal welfare standards and align public expectations in light of previous bans on other cruel imports like cat and dog meat, and elephant ivory.']
Import and Sale of Fur
27 June 2023
Responding: Trudy Harrison
Main Concerns
['Giles Watling is concerned about the welfare of animals involved in fur farming overseas, noting that while fur farming is banned in the UK on ethical grounds, importing farmed fur from abroad continues. He highlights that over 30,000 responses were received in a Government call for evidence regarding the fur market but no summary or policy position has been released yet. Watling also mentions the environmental harm caused by fur production and the significant human health risks associated with zoonotic diseases spread through fur farming. The UK Government has dropped the kept animals Bill and abandoned the animals abroad Bill, raising questions about their commitment to animal welfare. Constituents are deeply concerned about the importation of fur into Britain, which involves outsourcing animal cruelty overseas. The British public is largely opposed to wearing real animal fur, with 93% expressing opposition according to a YouGov poll.']
Specific Asks
["Watling asks for progress on the release of a summary of responses to the Government's call for evidence on the fur market and for action to explore measures against importing fur from countries where animal welfare standards are lower than those in the UK. He also suggests that alternative products should be considered by the Ministry of Defence. The Minister should provide a clear date for introducing an import ban on fur and address the issue if no private Member's Bill aims to ban fur imports."]
Future of Stoma Care
17 May 2023
Responding: Will Quince
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the suboptimal care that many individuals receive after having a stoma, which has a significant impact on their quality of life. In my Clacton constituency alone, there are at least 300 people living with a stoma, and in the UK, the number ranges from 165,000 to 205,000 individuals. People with a stoma face physical and emotional challenges and often receive highly variable care across the health system.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to commit to meeting me and the Stomas in Parliament organisers to discuss the calls to action and the possible impacts of the medtech strategy on stoma care. Additionally, I request a commitment from him to meet with the group working on the NHS Getting It Right First Time stoma care pathway to ensure equitable care across the UK.']
Marine Management Organisation
13 December 2022
Responding: Mark Spencer
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the Marine Management Organisation's inefficiency and lack of accountability. He cites a specific case where the Naze Protection Society waited 13 weeks for a licence to undertake vital coastal works, despite having all necessary resources ready. Additionally, he points out that local government authorities have a deep understanding of their areas' needs and can manage licensing duties more effectively than centralised organisations like the MMO."]
Specific Asks
['The MP calls for devolving many functions of the Marine Management Organisation to local authorities through a pilot scheme. He requests that Tendring District Council absorb and discharge the licensing and management duties currently handled by the MMO.']
Immigration and Home Affairs
23 July 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
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...
Senior Civil Service (Accountability and Appointment)
05 March 2024
General Debate
Led by this MP
Watling argues that the relationship between Parliament and the civil service is fundamental to democracy, highlighting issues such as the Sue Grey affair and the role of political appointees. He sugg...
Autumn Statement Resolutions - Rates of Tobacco Products Duty
27 November 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Ukraine
27 April 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Sudan Update
27 April 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Budget Resolutions and Economic Situation
15 March 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Chancellor's Budget downgrades growth forecasts, shows a failure to address long-term challenges, and leaves the country in a state of managed decline. The UK economy is lagging behind competitors...
Migration
16 November 2022
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Marine Activities (Licensing)
12 October 2022
General Debate
Led by this MP
Watling argues that the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is not fit for purpose, highlighting issues such as a lack of expertise and local insight. He proposes transferring many of the MMO's funct...
Tributes to Her Late Majesty the Queen
10 September 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
4
PMQs Asked
55
Ministerial Questions Asked
27
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
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 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+9% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+303% above average
This MP:
55
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+58% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+458% above average
This MP:
27
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
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 Giles Watling's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.