Paul Howell
MP for Sedgefield
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I ask the Prime Minister to thank my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport for holding further meetings with Hitachi this morning—and, indeed, with the union representatives. We were all glad to see what happened with Alstom yesterday, but it is important that we do the same to support the factories up at Hitachi in Aycliffe.
Context
There is ongoing support from the government to ensure a robust supply chain and investment in rail, particularly in the north.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend for his role in championing the rail industry in the UK. As he rightly said, the Department for Transport and the Secretary of State have been actively engaged with companies to ensure that we have a robust supply chain. As my hon. Friend knows, we are investing record amounts in rail, particularly in the north, and we are pleased to see that that is being delivered.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Last week, we all celebrated the 75th anniversary of the NHS, but hon. Members may not be aware that it is also the 75th anniversary of Newton Aycliffe, a new town in my constituency designed by William Beveridge. Will the Deputy Prime Minister ask the Prime Minister to come and visit me, as his constituency neighbour, and celebrate these 75 years, and indeed the 60 years of the community newspaper provided by the Howarth family?
Context
The NHS celebrated its 75th anniversary alongside the 75th anniversary of Newton Aycliffe, a town designed by William Beveridge.
Oliver Dowden
I cannot speak to the Prime Minister's diary, although I will make representations. I would be delighted to visit my hon. Friend's constituency, if he wishes me to attend instead.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I had the pleasure of going to the installation of Dr Fiona Hill as its new chancellor. She will champion social mobility. Will he encourage the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to work with me on this?
Context
The MP highlighted the installation of Dr Fiona Hill as Durham University's new chancellor, starting in Bishop Auckland and working up to White House roles.
Oliver Dowden
I join my hon. Friend in relaying the Government's congratulations to her. I will ensure the Secretary of State hears his representations.
Assessment
Specific ask about encouraging the Secretary of State was not directly addressed; offered representation instead
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Will my right hon. Friend join me in complimenting Bradford on becoming the city of culture? Will he praise the team from Durham? In 2025, Durham will celebrate the bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington passenger railway. Will he encourage progress on Ferryhill station development, reinvigorate the Leamside line, and deliver a great county deal for County Durham?
Context
Bradford has won the title of UK City of Culture 2025, beating Durham. The Ferryhill station development and Leamside line are crucial infrastructure projects for the north-east.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend for what he has said. He and I have campaigned on this, and I have been following his campaign for a long time. I am told that the Department for Transport is currently reviewing the business case for exactly what he has just requested. We are putting the funding in, which is unlike anything that the Labour party could ever have delivered.
Assessment
Specific timelines and actions not provided
Under Review
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I wish all our constituents across the country a merry Christmas and a safe 2022. What matters to my Sedgefield constituents is jobs, jobs, jobs. Will the Prime Minister join me in congratulating Hitachi and Alstom on securing the HS2 rolling stock contract? It is a tremendous vote of confidence in the people of Newton Aycliffe and Sedgefield. Will he encourage the Secretary of State for Transport to confirm that the feasibility study for Ferryhill station will be approved at his earliest convenience so that we can get on with levelling up and building back better for Ferryhill, Bishop Middleham, Sedgefield and the Cornforths?
Context
The Prime Minister is urged to support local economic development by confirming the feasibility study for Ferryhill station will be approved at the earliest convenience.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend is a great advocate for Sedgefield, his constituents and levelling up. I congratulate Hitachi and Alstom on securing the HS2 stock order and the proponents of Ferryhill station for completing the initial business case for the scheme. That is part of the £96 billion investment that we are making in our railway infrastructure, which is the biggest in 100 years, dwarfing anything that the Labour party has ever embarked on. We will get on with uniting and levelling up across our country.
Assessment
Did not commit to approving the feasibility study for Ferryhill station at his earliest convenience
We Will Get On With Uniting And Levelling Up Across Our Country.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Asks if the PM agrees with stimulating the UK economy post-pandemic through various initiatives such as supporting the housing market, investing in broadband, railways, and opening a new station at Ferryhill.
Context
Proposes economic measures to stimulate the UK economy, including housing market support, broadband investment in rural areas, and railway investments.
The Prime Minister
What a brilliant idea. I think Sedgefield should be careful what it wishes, but I will certainly investigate that possibility. My hon. Friend will know what we were doing, whether it is the 300,000 homes that we want to build every year, massive investment in gigabit broadband, or the huge investment in railways and roads.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Yesterday's announcement of the Nexus contract being placed with the Swiss company Stadler instead of with Hitachi Rail, which is based in my Sedgefield constituency, is in my opinion inappropriate and it takes no account of the socioeconomic benefit to us of UK-based business. I hope to see a positive decision on HS2 with its potential to reconnect the north with London, and would ask the Prime Minister to ensure that UK-based businesses such as Hitachi see their investment in the UK properly recognised in the procurement process.
Context
The announcement that the Nexus contract was given to a Swiss company instead of Hitachi Rail, which is based in Sedgefield constituency, has raised concerns about the socioeconomic impact on UK-based businesses.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend has personally raised the issue with me before, and I am sure that his constituents will congratulate him on sticking up for their interests in the way that he does. I can tell him that there will be a decision on HS2 very shortly, if he can just contain his impatience a little bit longer.
Assessment
Did not address the specific ask about procurement recognition for UK-based businesses
Contain Your Impatience
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Does the Minister agree how critical it is that money flows down the football pyramid, and will she congratulate Newton Aycliffe on their achievements and commend the local paper for its backing?
Context
In his constituency, Paul Howell has local grassroots football teams like Newton Aycliffe and Ferryhill Town youth, which are well supported by local organizations.
Stuart Andrew
I commend Newton Aycliffe and Ferryhill Town youth football clubs for their recent successes, both off and on the pitch. It is great to hear that my hon. Friend has been engaging with organisations such as the Football Foundation.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Could the Secretary of State just remind us how important these community groups are—the scouts, the brass bands, and all of the different things that we see around our communities—and maybe just remind us of the breadth and scope of support that this Conservative Government have given to such organisations?
Context
The MP requests details on the importance of community youth organisations and the scope of support provided by the Conservative Government.
Lucy Frazer
We have provided 300,000 opportunities through our national youth guarantee. This includes providing 12,000 disadvantaged young people with adventures away from home; making 30,000 places available for the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme; and creating 250 new uniformed youth groups.
Session: Youth Investment Fund
View All Questions -->
What assessment she has made of the impact of the youth investment fund on opportunities for young people?
Context
The MP seeks an assessment of the youth investment fund's impact on young people's opportunities.
Lucy Frazer
To date, £250 million has been awarded to 227 organisations to build, renovate and expand youth provision. The programme aims to support up to 300 youth facilities, benefiting 45,000 young people each year.
Session: Youth Investment Fund
View All Questions -->
Following meetings with veterans and reviewing files at National Archives, will the Minister update the House on any new information regarding the sinking of RFA Sir Galahad?
Context
The MP seeks further files on the tragic sinking of RFA Sir Galahad in the Falklands war from previously reviewed extracts.
Andrew Murrison
Following meetings with colleagues and veterans, having personally reviewed the files at the National Archives, and in the interests of transparency, I am placing copies of two recently reviewed extracts from the 1982 board of inquiry report on the loss of RFA Sir Galahad in the Library of the House.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
How is the Minister working to improve the supply of rolling stock orders, to give customers a better experience, and importantly, to give companies such as Hitachi orders to bid for?
Context
The Minister is working to improve the supply of rolling stock orders, which could benefit companies such as Hitachi.
Huw Merriman
Yesterday an invitation to negotiate was sent out by Southeastern to five train manufacturers, including Hitachi. We have plans for 2,000 rolling stock orders worth a total of £3.6 billion.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does the Minister agree that getting extra officers out in our communities should be top of the list for any police and crime commissioner? Unfortunately, in Durham, we see that the Labour PCC is more interested in increasing her back-office staff and overseeing a decline in standards. Does he agree that the sooner we get an ex-beat cop in place, such as the Conservative candidate Rob Potts, the sooner Durham will return to being an outstanding police force?
Context
The Labour PCC in Durham is prioritizing back-office staff over frontline police officers.
Chris Philp
I completely agree. Spending money on things such as flowerbeds and diversity staff instead of frontline police officers is the wrong priority. Former frontline officers such as Rob Potts, running for PCC in Durham, will do a good job of getting priorities straight.
Session: Neighbourhood Policing
View All Questions -->
Like many colleagues across the House, I attended the all-party parliamentary group for UK-Israel and Friends of Israel event. We were joined by two released hostages and a delegation consisting of young siblings, sons, daughters, grandchildren and cousins of those being held hostage in Gaza. It is now five months since the hostages were taken, so will the Secretary of State ensure that those victims remain right at the front of his mind in all decisions that are taken on the middle east?
Context
The hostages were taken five months ago and a delegation consisting of family members of the victims attended an all-party parliamentary group event.
Grant Shapps
My hon. Friend can absolutely have that assurance. It is shocking to see what is happening in the region, but it is too often forgotten—including in this House today by some Opposition Members—that this all began with the taking of those hostages. We will never forget.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Following many conversations and much engagement, the Secretary of State and the Ministers are well aware that companies in the railway rolling stock supply chain, such as Hitachi Newton Aycliffe, face significant short-term challenges. Next year we will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the first passenger railway in the world, which runs past a Hitachi factory. Can the Secretary of State update me on what he is doing to ensure that companies such as Hitachi have a long-term future in the UK to build the next generation of north-east trains?
Context
Companies in the railway rolling stock supply chain, such as Hitachi Newton Aycliffe, face significant short-term challenges.
Mark Harper
My hon. Friend has been a doughty campaigner for his constituents. He has already raised this issue with me on a number of occasions, and I am glad that he has raised it again. I have had frequent meetings with Hitachi's management in both the UK and Japan, and we are working very hard to deal with the situation. Hitachi's HS2 order was confirmed on the original terms, and I am working with its representatives. The Rail Minister, my hon. Friend the Member for Bexhill and Battle (Huw Merriman), recently published the details of the future rolling stock that is in the pipeline, and Hitachi is very competitively placed to win orders for much of that. I hope we will be able to reach a successful conclusion in the very near future.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What consequences were suffered by an individual inmate who sent posts allegedly related to a murder, and why is he wearing designer clothes and leading a cushy life?
Context
Concern was raised about the ease of using social media in prisons and its implications for rehabilitation and deterrence.
Alex Chalk
The use of social media in prisons is not acceptable; content was removed. We are investing £100 million in prison security, including X-ray scanners to tackle contraband mobile phones. Inmates can face loss of privileges and more time in custody.
Session: Reoffending
View All Questions -->
My Newton Aycliffe constituent Zoey McGill suffered from knife crime when her son Jack Woodley was killed. She is now suffering again as one of the perpetrators uses social media from custody. Does the Attorney General agree that such actions should be prosecuted and publicised to deter others?
Context
A constituent's son was killed due to knife crime, with the perpetrator using social media from custody.
Victoria Prentis
That is why it is important we crack down on mobile phone use within prisons. The Government have put in £100 million for airport-style security to prevent phones from entering prisons, addressing serious incidents such as the one raised by my hon. Friend.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Prosecution
View All Questions -->
Over the weekend, The Express reported that Ferryhill is being used as a dumping ground for rapists and paedophiles. My constituents believe this is caused by housing groups advertising in the south without proper checks required here. Can the Minister meet me to discuss how we can stop this?
Context
The Daily Express reported that Ferryhill in Sedgefield constituency has become a dumping ground for rapists and paedophiles due to advertising by housing groups offering houses without background checks.
Jacob Young
I am sorry to hear of my hon. Friend's concerns and will meet him to discuss how our antisocial behaviour action plan can help in Ferryhill.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
When it comes to small and medium-sized enterprises getting Government contracts, sometimes the devil is in the detail and the unintended consequences. One business has told me that the prior year turnover to contract ratio restriction in public procurement is hindering the growth of businesses such as Kromek in NETPark, Sedgefield, forcing them to surrender margins to prime contractors and meet the contracting eligibility requirements, costing the UK Government the best innovation and costing SMEs growth. Will the Minister please commit to exploring alternative measures for assessing contract eligibility?
Context
The question deals with the impact of prior year turnover to contract ratio restrictions on SME growth and innovation.
Alex Burghart
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. I know that he will have followed the passage of the Procurement Act 2023 through Parliament closely, as will businesses in his constituency—particularly SMEs, I hope. He will have seen that the Act removes unnecessary obstacles relating to audited accounts and insurance for the conditions of participation.
Session: Public Procurement SMEs
View All Questions -->
What steps his Department is taking to improve access to public sector procurement processes for small and medium-sized businesses. The Procurement Act 2023 aims to simplify and make procurement more effective, but SMEs still face barriers that prevent them from securing a larger share of the £300 billion annual expenditure.
Context
The question addresses the challenge of small and medium-sized enterprises accessing public sector procurement processes, which historically have been difficult for them.
Alex Burghart
The Procurement Act 2023 will deliver simpler and more effective public sector procurement, and it will help SMEs secure a greater share of approximately £300 billion of expenditure every year. The Act includes a new duty on contracting authorities to have regard to the particular barriers facing SMEs and to consider how they can be overcome.
Session: Public Procurement SMEs
View All Questions -->
Like many, I welcomed what was going on with Network North, particularly the announcement of Ferryhill Station. When it comes to the final assessment and decisions, we need to ensure that the right question is asked, as the Green Book says. The right question is: what is the socioeconomic benefit to the towns and villages around the station, not to the GDP of the UK? May I ask for that assurance please?
Context
The Prime Minister announced the opening of Ferryhill Station as part of Network North, but there is a need to ensure socioeconomic benefits are considered in final assessments.
Huw Merriman
That was another commitment that the Prime Minister made in the Network North announcement. My hon. Friend has campaigned for Ferryhill Station for so long, and I thank him for bringing it forward. The business case will look at the socioeconomic conditions that he mentions, and I am confident that we will be able to get spades in the ground for his station very shortly.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
When it comes to economic equality, physical mobility is critical. Does the Minister agree that when funding for local transport is determined, the opportunity to enhance social mobility should be a key consideration?
Context
The MP is concerned about limited public transport connectivity in certain areas which hinders access to education and employment opportunities.
Kemi Badenoch
I agree with my hon. Friend, who raises an important point about how connectivity creates access and generates social mobility. The Department for Transport is working to put the needs of current and potential users at the heart of the operation of the transport system, and Network North, our new £36 billion plan, will improve our country's transport.
Session: Socioeconomic Equality
View All Questions -->
Are there any routes we can still follow to get some recognition for him in this unfortunate situation?
Context
A 102-year-old constituent passed away after completing the Great North Run and other challenges.
Oliver Dowden
Honours are not given posthumously, but we are in consultation with the palace to look at posthumous honours for people who have lost their lives in public service. We continue to keep this under review.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
My Sedgefield constituency has faced many trials and tribulations in trying to get rural broadband, particularly in Killerby, Summerhouse and Mordon. When I last met the leader of Building Digital UK, I was encouraged about progress. Can the Minister reassure me that he also believes that progress is being made?
Context
The question arises from the need for improved broadband infrastructure in rural areas, particularly highlighting specific towns and villages facing challenges.
John Whittingdale
In the north-east as a whole, we have seen faster growth of gigabit broadband coverage than in any other region. I am encouraged to hear of his discussions with BDUK and hope that a contract will be signed shortly for further improvements including in Killerby, Summerhouse and Mordon.
Session: Rural Connectivity
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to improve rural connectivity. My Sedgefield constituency has faced many trials and tribulations in trying to get rural broadband, particularly in Killerby, Summerhouse and Mordon. When I last met the leader of Building Digital UK, I was encouraged about progress. Can the Minister reassure me that he also believes that progress is being made?
Context
The question arises from the need for improved broadband infrastructure in rural areas, particularly highlighting specific towns and villages facing challenges.
John Whittingdale
We have announced 12 Project Gigabit contracts to extend gigabit-capable networks and are jointly investing over £1 billion with the industry to encourage 4G mobile coverage. In the north-east, there has been faster growth of gigabit broadband coverage than in any other region of the UK. A contract will be signed shortly for further improvements including in Killerby, Summerhouse and Mordon.
Session: Rural Connectivity
View All Questions -->
Could I ask the Minister to support the “One Million Lives” campaign, and to push for the renewal of local funding to support suicide-safer communities?
Context
The MP highlights the efforts of campaigns such as “One Million Lives” and asks for funding renewal.
Maria Caulfield
I thank my hon. Friend for his hard work in this area and for his mental health campaigning overall, and also his wife and all who selflessly give their time to volunteer with the invaluable mental health charities. We fully recognise that, and that is why when we launched the suicide prevention strategy we also launched our £10 million suicide prevention grant fund.
Session: Suicide Prevention
View All Questions -->
Does the Minister agree that good plans help cost-effective delivery, and will he meet me to discuss funding and programme delivery for the police and fire services in Durham? Does he also agree that electing Robert Potts, the Conservative candidate for the next PCC elections in May, would be a far better outcome for the police in Durham?
Context
Durham faces funding pressures on both police and fire services with a low local tax base. The Labour police and crime commissioner's decision to move Newton Aycliffe police station is under scrutiny.
Chris Philp
I will certainly meet with my hon. Friend, and yes, I do agree. Only today, PCC Donna Jones in Hampshire announced that she would be opening 10 new police counters, an example of what happens when we have sound Conservative policies in operation.
Session: Police Resources
View All Questions -->
I am sure the Minister will agree that our veterans make some of the best role models. Will he applaud my constituent Bill Cooksey, who at 102 completed the Great North Run this weekend on behalf of NHS charities?
Context
Recognition of a veteran's achievement is requested.
Andrew Murrison
The hon. Gentleman is congratulated by Bill Cooksey on completing the Great North Run at such an extraordinary age. The Minister admires him hugely.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to improve railway infrastructure. I thank the Minister for his answer, but the most critical rail infrastructure needed in the north-east by far is the Leamside line project, starting with Ferryhill station. Its importance cannot be overstated; it is about resilience, capacity and levelling up. Can he tell us when we will get spades in the ground to show our commitment to constituents in Ferryhill and let them see the economic benefit that these stations will bring?
Context
The MP is concerned about railway infrastructure improvements, specifically mentioning the Leamside line project and its importance for resilience, capacity, and economic benefits.
Huw Merriman
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend, who is a champion of rail in the north-east. I thank him for his long-standing support for this scheme and for sponsoring the bid for restoring your railway ideas funding to reopen a station at Ferryhill. The updated strategic outline business case for the Ferryhill-Middlesbrough proposal is with the Department and we will be looking at it shortly.
Session: Railway Infrastructure
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to improve railway infrastructure. I thank the Minister for his answer, but the most critical rail infrastructure needed in the north-east by far is the Leamside line project, starting with Ferryhill station. Its importance cannot be overstated; it is about resilience, capacity and levelling up. Can he tell us when we will get spades in the ground to show our commitment to constituents in Ferryhill and let them see the economic benefit that these stations will bring?
Context
The MP is concerned about railway infrastructure improvements, specifically mentioning the Leamside line project and its importance for resilience, capacity, and economic benefits.
Huw Merriman
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend, who is a champion of rail in the north-east. I thank him for his long-standing support for this scheme and for sponsoring the bid for restoring your railway ideas funding to reopen a station at Ferryhill. The updated strategic outline business case for the Ferryhill-Middlesbrough proposal is with the Department and we will be looking at it shortly.
Session: Railway Infrastructure
View All Questions -->
I thank the Secretary of State for his efforts on levelling up, but I must stress to him the importance of speed in reaching the communities of my Sedgefield constituency. It was disappointing that the knife was applied to the second round, knocking out many Durham bids, particularly mine in Newton Aycliffe, and it is painful to see the slow progress on the restoring your railway fund bid for Ferryhill station. When does my right hon. Friend think we will see delivery?
Context
The MP highlights the importance of speed in reaching his constituents and expresses disappointment over unsuccessful bids and slow progress on certain projects.
Michael Gove
My hon. Friend makes a good point. It is important that we support the work that is anticipated for Ferryhill station. In his constituency, Hitachi produces state-of-the-art railway investment, and we need to make sure that its vision is matched by the Government's commitment.
Session: UK Levelling Up
View All Questions -->
I compliment the Secretary of State on driving the increase in police numbers on the streets. While Durham has 239 more police officers since 2019, will she confirm that recruitment will continue, as we have not yet returned to the 2010 level? Will she advise me and my Sedgefield constituents how to ensure that the emphasis is on frontline deployment to antisocial behaviour hotspots?
Context
Durham has seen a rise in police numbers since 2019, but recruitment is still needed to reach the 2010 level. Sedgefield constituents are concerned about frontline deployment to antisocial behaviour hotspots.
Suella Braverman
I congratulate my hon. Friend on his doughty campaigning in his constituency. Durham has received £3.4 million through four rounds of the safer streets fund, including just under £1.5 million in the current round. This is funding projects such as youth diversionary activity, ASB education programmes and target hardening measures. This Government are putting more police on the streets and engaging with communities to enable them to prevent crime.
Session: Antisocial Behaviour
View All Questions -->
Has he spoken to the Department for Transport about supporting the Leamside line project, which aims to enhance both capacity and resilience on the east coast main line?
Context
The MP highlights the importance of the east coast main line and expresses concern about capacity issues.
John Lamont
Proposals to reopen the Leamside line were considered in developing the integrated rail plan. The case for reopening would be best evaluated as part of a future city region settlement, with continued stakeholder engagement by the Department for Transport.
Session: Scotland-England Transport Connectivity
View All Questions -->
What recent discussions has he had with Cabinet colleagues on improving transport connectivity between Scotland and England?
Context
The MP inquires about recent discussions on enhancing transport links between the two countries.
John Lamont
Scotland Office Ministers and officials have regular discussions with colleagues across Government about Lord Hendy's Union connectivity review. I recently met stakeholders to discuss cross-border rail services between Scotland and England, and to learn more about a range of transport connectivity projects.
Session: Scotland-England Transport Connectivity
View All Questions -->
Does my right hon. Friend confirm that his Department will make prompt decisions on the business cases under Restoring Your Railways?
Context
Ferryhill station's bid under the Restoring Your Railways scheme and Hitachi Rail's contribution to regional economy.
Mark Harper
The Government give full and careful consideration to business cases to ensure best value for taxpayers. The Department recognises the contribution of Hitachi Rail since 2010 and is considering the updated business case for Ferryhill station alongside all bids under Restoring Your Railways.
Session: Rail Modernisation
View All Questions -->
Building on previous comments about £2 bus fares, my Cornforth constituents must take two buses and change at Ferryhill to reach their local supermarket. What can be done to help them? Will the Minister meet me to discuss this further?
Context
Cornforth constituents face difficulty accessing the Spennymoor supermarket due to a lack of direct bus service, requiring two buses with a change at Ferryhill.
Richard Holden
I am always delighted to meet my hon. Friend and constituency neighbour. He will be aware that the enhanced partnership put forward by the Labour North East Joint Transport Committee is currently looking at the BSIP as well. I hope to work with him not only on that, but on the broader regional transport issues of which he has been a major champion since 2019.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
We all visit many schools, and the latest for me was Chilton Academy where I talked about its Go Well support. We all talk about funding, but the biggest thing about funding is not just the amount, but its visibility and extended timelines. Can the Minister please explain what can be done to make sure that the schools know earlier and for longer what money they will have available?
Context
The MP visited Chilton Academy, discussing its Go Well support programme. Schools face challenges with the visibility and extended timelines of funding.
Nick Gibb
I understand and agree with my hon. Friend about the importance of certainty over funding. The dedicated school grant allocations for 2023-24 were published in December 2022, including indicative allocations for the mainstream schools' additional grant, which will distribute the additional £2 billion of funding that was announced in the autumn statement.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
First, I congratulate all the staff and pupils of Ferryhill Station Primary School, where I was once a governor. Led by the head, Joanne Sones, it has now achieved an Ofsted rating of good.
I am sure the Minister would like all pupils everywhere to develop their sports skills and improve their mental health through sport. What is being done to focus the sports premium on schools in challenging areas such as Ferryhill? I would also encourage the Minister to come and—
I am sure the Minister would like all pupils everywhere to develop their sports skills and improve their mental health through sport. What is being done to focus the sports premium on schools in challenging areas such as Ferryhill? I would also encourage the Minister to come and—
Context
The MP praised a local school for achieving an Ofsted rating of good.
Nick Gibb
Improving school sport and PE is a key priority, and we recognise the important role that they play. We are considering arrangements for the primary PE and sports premium for the 2023-24 academic year.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Has he managed to persuade the Secretary of State that the integrated rail plan under-serves the needs of the north and lets down those who require change the most?
Context
Previous Conservative manifestos promised substantial rail improvements to the north and midlands but there are concerns these promises were not met.
Huw Merriman
I welcome the scale of the Government's promised spending on improving rail in the North and the Midlands. £96 billion is a very substantial sum; it has the potential to transform rail travel for future generations.
Session: Northern Powerhouse Rail and Leamside Line
View All Questions -->
I welcome the new team to the Front Bench. Earlier this year, the then exports Minister visited Billy Maughan and other farmers at Darlington Farmers Auction Mart in my constituency, seeing firsthand how local farmers produce food to some of the highest standards globally. There is real potential for expanding existing markets and developing new ones worldwide; a key ask from farmers is getting people on the ground in crucial markets like the Middle East and parts of Asia to promote our high-quality, sustainable products.
Context
The question discusses the potential for expanding UK food exports, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. It references a visit by the then-exports Minister to Darlington Farmers Auction Mart where farmers expressed their desire for government support in developing new markets.
Greg Hands
Our Department has deployed staff across over 100 global markets including the Middle East, Asia, and the US. This includes two agricultural attachés focusing on the Gulf region and China and three more in the Asia-Pacific and India to ensure maximum access for British food and drink exports.
Session: Food and Farming Trade Barriers
View All Questions -->
What progress her Department has made on tackling trade barriers for British food and farming businesses. Over the 2021-22 financial year, we have seen barriers removed in various countries including Japan for UK poultry meat and Mexico and Chile for UK pork. The first export of British lamb to the USA was sent last month, with an estimated market value of £37 million over five years.
Context
The question addresses the progress made in removing trade barriers for UK agricultural products, focusing on specific markets such as Japan, Mexico, Chile, and the USA.
Greg Hands
Over the 2021-22 financial year, we removed 192 barriers to UK agricultural produce across 79 countries. This included opening markets for UK poultry meat in Japan and UK pork in Mexico and Chile. Last month saw the first export of British lamb to the USA after a 20-year absence; the industry estimates this market to be worth £37 million over five years.
Session: Food and Farming Trade Barriers
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State encourage spades in the ground for the Ferryhill station project, which is progressing, and meet me and others with regard to the work already being done to put plans in place for the Leamside line and the opportunities to bring it into the full Northern Powerhouse Rail project?
Context
The MP emphasized the importance of Northern Powerhouse Rail and the progress on the Ferryhill station project.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
My hon. Friend is a doughty champion for all transport infrastructure in County Durham, having been so before and indeed now that he is in the House. I will ensure that he can sit down with our rail Minister to discuss in greater detail the investments that we are making. The growth plan, which the Chancellor set out a few weeks ago, sets out clearly why transport infrastructure is critical to helping our economy to grow.
Session: Major Transport Infrastructure North of England
View All Questions -->
Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am asking this question on behalf of my hon. Friend the Member for Llanelli who is away on parliamentary business. Businesses fear the new trade show programme will only support first-time or market expansion exhibitors unlike its predecessor which supported repeated efforts. Evidence shows a drop in UK exhibitors just when economic growth needs stimulation. Will the Minister make the scheme more generous and widen access criteria to allow repeat participation?
Context
Businesses are concerned that the current trade show programme is less generous compared to its predecessor, leading to a decrease in UK exhibitors.
Andrew Griffith
The first step of exporting is often hardest, so the highest support goes to new exporters. The trade show programme supports over 128 shows across 28 markets. The Minister will listen to concerns and ensure continued support for the programme.
Session: UK Exports
View All Questions -->
As we see in the tragedy that is happening to Ukraine, the normal boundaries of warfare are being ignored, with increasing risks of the employment of biological or viral warfare strategies. Does my hon. Friend agree that we need to be at the forefront of innovation and research to deliver the best possible platforms to defend against these abhorrent strategies, and that the work that companies such as Kromek in Sedgefield are doing in collaboration with others deserves full support and indeed acceleration?
Context
The hon. Member refers to the tragedy in Ukraine and the risks of biological or viral warfare strategies.
Jeremy Quin
I am familiar with Kromek and its capabilities, and my hon. Friend is absolutely right to say that it is often SMEs that produce the most brilliant ideas, often working with excellent British universities. DASA finds and supports new ideas within defence, and I am delighted that SMEs make up some two thirds of the projects that DASA supports. Funding is also available for specialist innovative projects through Defence Science and Technology.
Session: Defence Technology
View All Questions -->
Since I was elected, constituents have written to me continuously about fly-tipping. One reason is the ease with which people can obtain waste removal licences. Will the Minister explain what the Government plans to do to increase the detail in which these checks are undertaken?
Context
Waste removal licences are easily obtained, leading to undercutting of legitimate businesses by individuals who provide poor waste services.
Jo Churchill
The waste carrier registration scheme needs urgent reform; measures announced will increase competence and background checks needed to operate, making it easier for regulators to take enforcement action against illegal operators.
Session: Fly-tipping
View All Questions -->
What steps are being taken to tackle the rising instances of fly-tipping?
Context
The increase in fly-tipping incidents has been raised as a concern.
Jo Churchill
Consulting on legislative reforms for waste handlers' regulation and introducing digital waste tracking. These measures aim to ensure offenders face full legal consequences under the Environment Act.
Session: Fly-tipping
View All Questions -->
What actions are being taken to support Gestamp's research and development efforts to ensure they remain competitive globally?
Context
Gestamp, a company in the MP's constituency, supplies to multiple global car manufacturers and is involved in research and development.
Penny Mordaunt
My hon. Friend has raised valid points which my Department is listening to, and a letter will be sent outlining the actions taken to ensure competitiveness and attract inward investment.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
UK City of Culture 2025: County Durham’s Bid
27 April 2022
Responding: Nigel Huddleston
Main Concerns
["I am thrilled that our bid has placed us among the four finalists for UK City of Culture 2025. Our case is summarised by 'Into the Light: The past we inherit, the future we build'. Durham's rich history includes landmarks such as Durham cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage site), Ushaw college, and the Stockton and Darlington railway bicentenary in 2025. We have a strong mining heritage, cultural landmarks like the Empire theatre, and significant political and military history. In economic terms, being city of culture would mean £40 million in direct spending, over 1,000 jobs created or kept, and more than 900 businesses benefitting."]
Specific Asks
["I ask the Government to recognise the value that Durham's bid can bring to the county. The council expects an additional £700 million visitor spend by 2025, with almost 16 million visitors including 4 million overnight and 3.5 million international visitors."]
North East Connectivity And Levelling Up Initiatives
25 November 2020
Responding: Christian Wakeford
Main Concerns
["The north-east has suffered significantly since 2003 due to the Treasury Green Book's skewed investment criteria, which have led to a disparity in public spending per capita between London and the north. The lack of connectivity through projects such as the Stillington spur being freight-only means that communities are disconnected from employment centres and cities, hindering economic opportunities for people."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should focus on new transport spending in the north to enhance connectivity and capacity, and introduce measures like freeports and state asset relocation. Additionally, a similar funding pot as the Beeching rail reversal fund should be created to support rural infrastructure projects overlooked by local councils or mayors.']
Economy, Welfare and Public Services
22 July 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Informs the House that Mr Speaker has selected amendment (h), tabled by the Leader of the Opposition.
Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
21 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
09 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Morris opened the debate by highlighting the struggle of miners and their pension issues. He criticised the Government for taking nearly £5 billion from the mineworkers' pension scheme without contrib...
Rail Manufacturing: Job Losses
16 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Byers Gill Solar Farm
04 March 2024
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP for Stockton West raised concerns about the proposed Byers Gill solar farm, which would cover over 2,500 acres of land between Stockton and Darlington. He highlighted that this development woul...
Farming
04 March 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government understands that farming drives rural Britain, generating jobs and growth. The debate aims to support British farming by investing in farmers through a £2.4 billion annual budget, shift...
Social Media Access in Prisons
26 February 2024
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
MP Paul Howell discusses the issues of social media in prisons, referencing several tragic cases involving knife crime victims' families. He emphasises the negative impact of inmates using social medi...
Teesworks Joint Venture
29 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Horizon: Compensation and Convictions
08 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Zero-emission Vehicles, Drivers and HS2
16 October 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government are making decisions to improve the journeys that matter most to the British public, focusing on zero-emission vehicles with ambitious but proportionate targets. They will back Britain’...
7
PMQs Asked
71
Ministerial Questions Asked
71
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+430% above average
This MP:
71
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1361% above average
This MP:
71
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 Paul Howell's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.