Philip Dunne
MP for Ludlow
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Will my right hon. Friend join me in confirming that standing up against tyrants who cause war in Europe is as important today as it was 80 years ago?
Context
The Prime Minister lit the light of liberation at the start of its journey to Normandy for War Graves Week, commemorating sacrifices made during WWII.
Rishi Sunak
The Prime Minister agrees with my right hon. Friend about standing up against authoritarian states. Building our defence in uncertain times is crucial, which is why we increased defence spending.
Session: PMQs
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Does my right hon. Friend share my enthusiasm about Monday's announcement of 27 new potential bathing water sites across the country, including three in Shropshire: two on the River Severn at Ironbridge and Shrewsbury, and one on the River Teme at Ludlow? How will those very welcome designations improve the quality of rivers in Shropshire and in the other areas under consideration?
Context
Monday saw the announcement of new bathing water sites across England, including three in Shropshire. The quality of rivers in these areas is expected to improve.
Rishi Sunak
On Monday we launched a consultation on the largest ever roll-out of new bathing water sites: 27 potential new bathing waters in England, including an extra one on the River Teme in Ludlow in my right hon. Friend's constituency. He is right that substantial improvements have been made in recent years.
Session: PMQs
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To maintain this momentum ahead of the net zero strategy refresh, will the Prime Minister encourage my right hon Friend the Chancellor to use his Budget statement next week to stimulate investment in renewable energy projects by renewable energy companies both offshore and onshore, to improve our energy security, reduce reliance on more expensive fossil fuels and ultimately reduce bills for households?
Context
UK economy grew at 4.1% last year, the fastest in G7; greenhouse gas emissions fell by 3.4%, more than comparable countries.
Rishi Sunak
I am proud of our commitment to scaling up renewable energy sources. Renewables make up nearly 40% of our electricity supply, which represents a fourfold increase since 2011. My right hon Friend will know that I cannot and will not pre-empt Budget decisions, but he is a powerful champion for the environment in this House, and I have no doubt that he will make his views known to the Chancellor.
Assessment
Did not confirm if the Chancellor would use Budget statement next week to encourage investment in renewable energy projects.
Session: PMQs
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I warmly welcome the Prime Minister's work to resolve the Rubik's cube of the Northern Ireland protocol, opening up the prospect of resuming more positive relations with our nearest neighbours. Last week, Imperial College generously hosted an event to celebrate 25 years of the Environment Audit Committee's scrutiny work. Academics from Imperial and the other world-class universities that support our work have been clamouring to re-engage with their research partners through Horizon and other programmes.
Context
The Prime Minister's work to resolve the Northern Ireland protocol is welcomed. Academics have been clamouring to re-engage with their research partners through Horizon and other programmes.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my right hon. Friend for his support for the Windsor framework. He is right about the benefits that it can bring. I also join him in paying tribute to our incredible research community, who do a fantastic job. I can assure him that we will continue to work with the EU in a range of areas—not just research collaboration, but strengthening our sanctions against Russia, energy security and, crucially, illegal migration.
Assessment
Specific ask about negotiations for association with Horizon Europe
Let It Get On And Do Its Job
Session: PMQs
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My right hon. Friend published a Net Zero Review this week. Does he join me in welcoming it, especially its recommendations to provide clarity and continuity for those working to decarbonise our economy?
Context
The MP welcomes the publication of an independent review on net zero and asks for the Prime Minister's response.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my right hon. Friend for his work on the Net Zero Review. We exceeded expectations in decarbonisation and will respond to the report's requests and recommendations over the coming year.
Session: PMQs
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Has the Prime Minister seen the recent report by the Environmental Audit Committee advising on steps beyond the Environment Act 2021 to improve river health? Will he encourage his Secretary of State to give guidance to Ofwat to require more investment in water treatment?
Context
The Environmental Audit Committee has published a report recommending additional measures to clean up rivers, including the River Wye. One suggestion is for Defra to provide guidance to Ofwat regarding water companies' capital spending.
Boris Johnson
My right hon. Friend is correct, and I welcome the report from his Committee. Our Government are committed to protecting and improving river health.
Assessment
The PM did not explicitly commit to providing guidance to Ofwat as requested.
Session: PMQs
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Will the PM show international leadership by setting out a very ambitious but achievable target for emissions in 2030, ahead of COP26 next year?
Context
The UK hosts the UN climate summit before COP26. The question asks if the Prime Minister will set an ambitious target for emissions in 2030 as part of the path to net zero.
Boris Johnson
The UK led the way with a net zero by 2050 target. We are looking at our nationally determined contribution, which will be published around the time of the climate summit on December 12th.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister use his influence in the Budget and comprehensive spending review later this year to increase infrastructure spending on flood defences for at-risk communities as part of his determination to show global leadership in taking action on climate change adaptation and mitigation?
Context
Record high water levels in the Rivers Severn and Trent have led to over 100 properties being flooded, causing significant distress.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Indeed I can, and I thank my right hon. Friend. We have been ensuring that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is able to extend the Bellwin scheme where appropriate. Of course, we are also investing massively in flood defences—£2.6 billion has already gone in and, as he knows, we have pledged to commit another £4 billion to defend this country against flooding.
Session: PMQs
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What does this funding mean practically for Shropshire's roads during next Parliament?
Context
Shropshire has the fifth longest road network in England; £150 million was announced last autumn for repairs, and an additional £136 million from HS2.
Mark Harper
Shropshire County Council will receive £153 million for highway maintenance from 2023 to 2034 and a further £136 million under the new local transport fund; detailed guidance on usage will be provided soon.
Session: Road Resurfacing
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What funding is his Department providing for road resurfacing?
Context
The question arises from the need to address deteriorating local roads in England.
Mark Harper
The Government are using £8.3 billion in funding reallocated from the HS2 programme to improve local highways, enabling authorities to resurface roads and fix thousands of potholes across England.
Session: Road Resurfacing
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Has my hon Friend seen any action taken by the Welsh Government to match the UK Government's commitment to cleaning up the polluted River Wye?
Context
The River Wye rises in Wales, crosses the border into England, and merges with the River Severn. The UK Government recently announced a commitment to cleaning up the polluted River Wye.
Fay Jones
In the interests of time, I will give my right hon Friend a very short answer: no. The Welsh Government have failed to come to the table time and time again on this issue, which is close to my heart as a constituency MP for the River Wye. That has been the missing piece of the puzzle, and it is why we are seeing no action in Wales.
Session: River Wye Action Plan
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What discussions has the Minister had with the Welsh Government on the River Wye action plan?
Context
The River Wye action plan addresses the ongoing decline of the River Wye, aiming to preserve and restore its condition. The issue involves discussions between the UK Government and the Welsh Government.
Fay Jones
I thank my right hon Friend for his work as Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee. The UK Government's River Wye action plan will halt ongoing decline of the River Wye to preserve and restore that treasured river to the rating of favourable condition.
Session: River Wye Action Plan
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What does my right hon. Friend make of the feasibility, let alone the cost that she has highlighted today, of the fantasy pipe dream of official Labour party policy to decarbonise by 2030?
Context
The question focuses on the feasibility and cost implications of achieving full grid decarbonisation by 2035.
Claire Coutinho
I thank my right hon. Friend for his question. The plans that we have set out represent the largest expansion of nuclear in 70 years, with radical reforms to the grid. However, it does take time to build things. Labour's 2030 policy is mad, bad and downright dangerous.
Session: Grid Decarbonisation Cost
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What recent estimate she has made of the cost of decarbonising the grid by (a) 2030 and (b) 2035?
Context
The question arises from the need to estimate costs for decarbonising the UK's energy grid.
Claire Coutinho
Our plans to decarbonise the grid by 2035 are ambitious but achievable, and have been assessed as realistic by the Climate Change Committee. They will build on the UK's achievement in becoming the first major economy to have halved emissions. According to independent analysis, securing a net zero grid by 2030 would cost taxpayers £116 billion.
Session: Grid Decarbonisation Cost
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Will my right hon. Friend meet me to discuss challenges faced by leisure centres in areas like Shropshire with financial constraints? He mentioned funding for swimming pools but there might be other opportunities to sustain these resources.
Context
Shropshire is facing budgetary pressures, raising concerns about the sustainability of local leisure facilities and their importance to community health.
Stuart Andrew
We are committed to providing support for swimming pools and facilities up and down the country, addressing challenges such as high energy bills. We will conduct work to identify black spots where more facilities should be provided based on local needs.
Session: Leisure Centre Closures North Shropshire
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Since the Prime Minister's speech on net zero in September, Nissan has announced a £2 billion investment in Sunderland, which comes hot on the heels of Tata's £4 billion investment in batteries. EDF Masdar has announced an £11 billion investment in offshore wind in Dogger Bank. In his autumn statement, the Chancellor announced a tripling of tidal energy contracts for difference. We had 11 hydrogen projects announced last week. There are six companies bidding for small modular reactors. Is it not the case that, hot on the heels of yesterday's announcement of a £6 billion allocation of energy efficiency funding and the carbon border adjustment mechanism—
Context
Significant investments have been made recently by Nissan, Tata, EDF Masdar, and others in the UK's renewable energy sector.
Jeremy Hunt
I thank my right hon. Friend for his question and for his campaigning on these issues. I just note that on electric vehicle manufacturing alone, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders says that in the past year we have had more investment pledged for UK electric vehicles than in the previous seven years combined.
Session: Topical Questions
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Could the Minister mention the measures taken in last week's autumn statement to promote the green energy agenda?
Context
The question aims to remind the House of recent measures in the autumn statement aimed at promoting green energy.
Graham Stuart
In 2010, less than 7% of electricity came from renewables; now it is nearly 48%. In the first quarter of this year, just 14% of homes were properly insulated; now, it is 50%. We heard announcements about the grid and more.
Session: Net Zero Targets Businesses
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The MP inquired about the status of the £312 million capital investment to transform the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust acute hospitals, asking for confirmation that it is on track through the NHS approval process with its outline business case so that construction can commence during this financial year.
Context
There is a £312 million capital investment to transform the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust acute hospitals. The MP asked if this project was on track.
Will Quince
My right hon. Friend has long championed this cause. I hope it is good news that I am able to confirm that enabling works have recently been approved for the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust hospital transformation programme and are expected to commence this financial year. I can also confirm that funding has been provided for the development of the full business case and is expected to be submitted in the coming months.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will my right hon. Friend ensure that the Environment Agency is resourced to facilitate monitoring of 100 inland waterway sites as they work towards achieving the bathing water designation? I am targeting a sewage outlet in Plymouth Sound and ask if we should extend testing beyond summer months since wild swimmers use these waters year-round.
Context
The question follows up on the designation of new bathing waters. It requests an extension of the testing period to include all-year-round swimming due to increased year-round activity.
Therese Coffey
The dates set down are consistent with European standards, reflecting higher summer usage. While people swim year-round in different parts of the country, designated sites are based on typical seasonality.
Session: Bathing Waters
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What steps her Department is taking to support bathing waters. She noted the addition of four new sites this year, including two in Rutland Water, one in Plymouth, and one on the River Deben near Waldringfield. She asked for assurances that the Environment Agency will be resourced to facilitate monitoring of inland waterways.
Context
The Department is being asked to support new bathing waters. The question highlights recent additions and asks about future resource commitments.
Therese Coffey
The Environment Agency will do the monitoring expected for all designated bathing water sites. The agency welcomes water companies' support and proposals to designate more inland waterways, but clarifies that these funds were anticipated as part of existing storm overflows discharge reduction plans.
Session: Bathing Waters
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With Russia's presidency ending this month and Norway taking over, what role can the UK play in supporting vital climate change research in the Arctic? The committee visited Svalbard before Easter and observed firsthand the importance of such research.
Context
The two-year Russian presidency of the Arctic Council is ending, and Norway will take over. A sub-committee of the Environmental Audit Committee visited Svalbard to witness climate change research.
David Rutley
We very much welcome the work of the sub-committee. The UK will continue to contribute expertise and research to the Arctic Council's working groups under the incoming Norwegian chairmanship, including on climate change. We also continue to support UK-based Arctic researchers studying these key issues through funding from the Natural Environment Research Council, including partners in Canada, Greenland and elsewhere in the region.
Session: Arctic Council
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What recent discussions has he had with international counterparts regarding the operation of the Arctic Council?
Context
The Arctic Council is an intergovernmental forum to address issues faced by the Arctic governments and people, focusing on environmental protection and sustainable development.
David Rutley
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office officials continue to engage actively with our Arctic partners on the future operation of the Arctic Council. We look forward to working with the incoming Norwegian chairmanship of the Arctic Council from 11 May.
Session: Arctic Council
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Will the Secretary of State update the House on the status of the Ajax procurement programme? I understand that the supply chain is being geared up to produce 589 vehicles.
Context
Concerns over delays and costs in the Ajax procurement programme, which is crucial for providing armoured vehicles to the British Army.
Ben Wallace
As my right hon. Friend will know, the Ajax was decided on in March 2010 under a Labour Government. Since I have taken over this office, we have sought to rectify the issue on almost a weekly basis. The vehicle has passed its user validation trials and is now undergoing its basic field trials. It is doing extremely well, and I am given a weekly update.
Session: Defence Procurement
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Oil and gas producers benefit from an investment allowance for investment in renewable projects in the UK, but existing renewable generators do not. Will my right hon. Friend make representations to the Chancellor, so that he can level up that anomaly and enable my right hon. Friend's admirable renewable energy ambitions to be realised?
Context
The MP inquired about an anomaly where oil and gas producers receive an investment allowance for renewable projects while existing renewable generators do not.
Graham Stuart
I thank my right hon. Friend for that question. As he knows, tax policy is a matter for the Chancellor, but I am working closely with him, along with the Secretary of State, to ensure that the electricity generator levy strikes the right balance when supporting households and businesses struggling with their energy bills. It is worth remembering that, as I have just mentioned, our main mechanism is the CfD, which provides support for renewable generators in a way that is certainly not true of those in the oil and gas sector.
Session: Renewable Energy Production
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Will the Minister now commit to a recommendation from the Institute of Directors to monitor and publish the impact of Government assistance?
Context
The Social Market Foundation report indicates that UK goods exports were 21% lower by mid-2022 than at the end of 2019. The Institute of Directors recommends monitoring and publishing the effectiveness of government support for businesses.
Andrew Bowie
This Department and, in fact, this entire Government are committed to growing our exports. We are rolling out our export support service, making export champions more visible and available across all nations and regions of the UK. We are supporting SMEs getting into exporting and those companies that already export.
Session: Exports
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Last week, G7 nations imposed a cap on the price of Russian oil exports in an attempt to limit the revenue fuelling Putin's war in Ukraine. As G7 nations have already largely ceased purchasing oil from Russia, can my right hon. Friend explain to the House how this measure will be effective?
Context
The G7 nations have imposed a cap on the price of Russian oil exports in an attempt to limit revenue fuelling Putin's war in Ukraine. However, G7 nations have largely ceased purchasing oil from Russia.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
We are working alongside the G7 to end that reliance on Russian energy and with the international community to open up alternative sources of energy, ensuring market stability. We introduced an oil price cap designed to enable countries to access the oil they need at affordable prices while undermining Russia's ability to profit from inflated prices.
Session: Topical Questions
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With interest rates rising around the world, many others countries are considering more imaginative ways of enabling those with mortgages to continue to pay. Will my hon. Friend look at the schemes operating in the United States that allow lenders to extend the duration of a mortgage to allow payments to remain on an even keel and, therefore, to remain more affordable for hard-pressed households?
Context
The MP inquires about schemes operating in the US that allow lenders to extend mortgage duration, which could make payments more affordable.
Andrew Griffith
Yes, I will do that. My right hon. Friend is right to point to the fact that mortgage rates have been rising throughout the world. This Government will always be on the side of trying to protect people with mortgages. Lenders are responsible and are willing to extend. The advice is that people should always speak to their lender if they have difficulties. I will certainly look at the case he mentions.
Session: Affordability of Housing First-time Buyers
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Will he find time to visit the JEDHub hosted by UK Defence Solutions Centre, which shows that £1 invested in defence has a multiplier effect?
Context
The JEDHub at Farnborough demonstrates the economic benefits of defence investment.
Jeremy Quin
In a packed programme, I will do my utmost to visit the JEDHub centre. My right hon. Friend's report recommended this hub.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am grateful to the Minister for that reply. Does he agree that it would be appropriate for water companies to become statutory consultees for local authorities and that their views on water treatment capacity should be sought before local authorities grant consent for significant developments?
Context
In response to the previous answer, the questioner seeks clarification and further action regarding the role of water companies in consultations before significant developments are approved.
Eddie Hughes
There already is a statutory requirement in place for local planning authorities to consult water and sewerage companies on the preparation of local plans. Developer contributions can also be used to secure infrastructure improvements, including for wastewater. I understand that my right hon. Friend has already been in touch with the office of the Minister for Housing, my right hon. Friend the Member for Pudsey (Stuart Andrew), on these matters and that the Minister is happy to meet him to discuss this in greater detail.
Session: Development Water Treatment Infrastructure
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What steps his Department is taking to help ensure that the development of homes and commercial buildings does not overload existing water treatment infrastructure. I am concerned about the impact of unchecked development on our local water infrastructure, especially in areas where capacity is already stretched.
Context
The issue concerns the potential overloading of existing water treatment infrastructure due to new home and commercial developments.
Eddie Hughes
The national planning policy framework is clear that, through their local plans, local authorities should make sufficient provision for the development and infrastructure required in their areas to help deliver sustainable development. Water companies are expected to plan their future infrastructure investment to accommodate future growth and ensure that adequate infrastructure provision is not a limiting factor.
Session: Development Water Treatment Infrastructure
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In considering responses to the Treasury's consultation on simplifying alcohol duty, will my hon. Friend consider a model that broadly relates duty to alcohol strength but without creating massive complexity and cost for the UK's thousands of off licences and wine shops, including important small and medium-sized enterprises in Shropshire, which create jobs, supporting both the wine import and brewing sectors?
Context
The question is prompted by the Treasury's consultation on simplifying alcohol duty, which impacts SMEs in sectors such as off-licences and wine shops.
Helen Whately
As my right hon. Friend knows, we have set out our plans to make alcohol duty simpler and fairer—a change that is long overdue. That includes a new relief for draught beer, small producer relief for craft cider makers and the end of the higher rate for sparkling wine. I am listening to the sector and I have visited businesses to hear for myself, to make sure that the reforms work in practice.
Session: Support for SMEs
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What fiscal steps his Department is taking to support small and medium-size enterprises?
Context
The question is prompted by a need to address the financial challenges faced by SMEs in the UK.
Helen Whately
Small and medium-sized businesses are at the heart of our economy, creating jobs and prosperity across the UK. Last week, we wrote to more than 2 million businesses setting out our support to them, including a £1,000 cut to employment taxes, extending the annual investment allowance limit, reducing business rates and cutting fuel duty by 5p.
Session: Support for SMEs
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Further to the questions from my hon. Friend the Member for Southend West (Anna Firth) and my right hon. Friend the Member for Maldon (Mr Whittingdale), the Environmental Audit Committee published its report on water quality in rivers, which was widely well received across the House. The Government are supposed to respond to a Select Committee report within 60 days. I granted an extension to 90 days. I think we are now at 105 days. Can we please have this report today?
Context
The Environmental Audit Committee published a report on water quality in rivers which the Government are supposed to respond to within 60 days, extended to 90 days and now at 105 days.
Rebecca Pow
I am well aware of that issue, as my right hon. Friend knows—indeed, I have discussed it with him—and I absolutely am chasing this up. If I could, I would get the response to him today, but it will come very soon.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last week, NATO nations committed force deployments to four member states in eastern Europe. Does my hon. Friend agree that now is not the time to reduce the force strength of the British Army by 9,500 regular soldiers, and should this aspect of the conclusions be deferred or reversed?
Context
NATO has committed additional forces to eastern Europe, and the question addresses concerns about reducing UK army size as per the integrated review's recommendations.
James Heappey
My right hon. Friend is an expert on this issue. While I acknowledge his view, my position is that now is the time to modernise our land forces rather than focusing solely on larger numbers, emphasising the need for increased lethality and precision in artillery.
Session: Integrated Review 2021 Russian Invasion of Ukraine
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With reference to the integrated review 2021, what assessment has been made of the implications for policies on force structure in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine?
Context
The question refers to the integrated review 2021 and seeks an assessment of the impact of Russia's actions in Ukraine on UK force structure.
James Heappey
The integrated review stated that Defence's forces must prepare for constant global engagement and campaigning to counter emerging threats. We are monitoring the situation in Ukraine closely and will continue to adjust our capabilities and readiness levels accordingly.
Session: Integrated Review 2021 Russian Invasion of Ukraine
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May I commend my hon. Friend the Minister for Defence Procurement for the care that he is taking in dealing with the challenges of the Ajax contract, and for the transparency with which he is keeping the House up to date with the problems? Does he agree that the production contract, which was entered into in 2014, was characterised by transferring risk to the contractor?
Context
The Minister is transparent about the challenges of the Ajax contract, differing from previous practices.
Jeremy Quin
My right hon. Friend is absolutely right. Had this been like the Nimrod situation, where £3.7 billion was wasted by the previous Government and they attempted to blame it on us, that would have been where we are.
Session: Topical Questions
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The capital transformation of acute hospitals in Shrewsbury and Telford has been eight years in the making. Will the Secretary of State confirm what is now needed to start delivering the £312 million of capital committed by the Conservative Government to improve Shropshire's healthcare facilities? Will he also confirm that it does not make sense to head down the rabbit hole of a new hospital and start this whole process all over again?
Context
The capital transformation of acute hospitals in Shrewsbury and Telford has been delayed for eight years.
Edward Argar
I am grateful to my right hon. Friend, who has taken a long-term and consistent interest in the matter. The strategic outline case for transforming the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital Telford was received at the end of October 2021. It has been reviewed by the NHS and detailed feedback has been given; I look forward to it coming forward to me early next year. We remain committed to delivering the investment and improvement that Shropshire's hospitals need and that he and his colleagues have helped to secure.
Session: Topical Questions
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Delays in procedures are causing increased pressure on our adult social care system. In September, East Riding of Yorkshire Council told my constituent that there was not a single carer to be had for her mum in the whole of the East Riding, and that the family's options were to put their mum into residential care or to deal with it themselves.
Context
There is a severe shortage of carers in adult social care, leading to critical situations where families cannot find any support.
Edward Argar
The hon. Lady is right to highlight that social care and the NHS go hand in hand, why we have made ambitious proposals for furthering their integration.
Session: Elective Procedure Backlogs
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Is it fair of Labour Members to critique this contract given their past calls for UK shipyards to build such ships? Given recent developments including DSEI and the establishment of the National Shipbuilding Office and AUKUS, can you confirm that defence shipbuilding opportunities in Britain have never been greater?
Context
Following a successful Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition, there are new contracts for British shipbuilders. The National Shipbuilding Office has also been established, along with the AUKUS agreement.
Jeremy Quin
There is great news in British shipbuilding at present, including progress on fleet solid support ships and Type 31 vessels. The DSEI exhibition saw further contracts awarded to British shipyards, along with the National Shipbuilding Office establishment and AUKUS.
Session: Fleet Solid Support Ship Contract
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Will the Minister commit to meeting Shropshire MPs once the strategic business case is complete to help ensure that the project can still be delivered?
Context
The trust received £300 million in March 2018 for hospital renovations. Since then, costs have risen due to changes in Green Book standards and clinical requirements.
Edward Argar
A letter confirmed £312 million remains allocated to the scheme. The Minister committed to approving an early funding request of £6 million, and he is happy to meet with Shropshire colleagues.
Session: NHS Estate
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Does my right hon. Friend believe that this will make clear the prosperity metrics, which the Treasury will recognise when it comes to defence procurement, and will the Treasury accept that a pound spent on defence in the UK is worth more than a multiplier of 1 in the levelling-up impact on the UK economy?
Context
The question relates to the Treasury's Green Book rules concerning public procurement and their recognition of economic metrics, such as the multiplier effect of defence spending in UK.
Ben Wallace
My right hon. Friend is absolutely right, especially in that last observation, and I congratulate him on his prosperity report. He was clearly thinking ahead of the Treasury at the time, and I am delighted that it has recognised the importance and contribution that those changes will make to levelling up and closing the north-south divide. While the end-of-year rules were not changed, the recent £24.1 billion multi-year settlement with the Treasury will now allow the MOD to invest in next generation military capability across the whole United Kingdom.
Session: Procurement Policies Green Book Changes
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What assessment has been made of the potential effect on his Department's procurement policies of the November 2020 changes to the Green Book?
Context
The question pertains to the assessment of potential effects on the Department's procurement policies following changes made to the Green Book in November 2020.
Ben Wallace
The MOD makes procurement decisions based on security, capability requirement, cost, supply chain and other social value considerations and will continue to do so. The November 2020 changes to the Green Book will ensure that there is an increased focus on setting clear objectives and consideration of location-based impacts. MOD footprint and spend is widely distributed across the UK and future procurement will continue to reflect this.
Session: Procurement Policies Green Book Changes
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Before he came into office, his Department allocated £312 million for the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital in Telford; now that independent reconfiguration panel has confirmed these decisions properly made and should proceed, can he confirm when this requested £6.3 million will be forthcoming?
Context
Following the confirmation of proper decisions made in March 2018 by an independent reconfiguration panel, £312 million was allocated to a major capital programme. The trust is seeking approval for an advance of funds amounting to £6.3 million.
Edward Argar
£6 million-worth of funding has been approved in principle, allowing the trust to develop plans and produce a business case. The Department will continue to work closely with the trust to understand how right support can be provided centrally to maximise impact.
Session: Building New Hospitals
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What diplomatic efforts has my right hon. Friend engaged in personally to work with China to ensure success in next year's CBD15 and COP26 conferences on global biodiversity and climate?
Context
Discusses the need for international cooperation, specifically mentioning the CBD15 and COP26 conferences. References China's significant role in both issues.
Dominic Raab
That is a good example for all the other challenges we have; it is an area where we must work with China if we are going to shift the dial on climate change. China is the largest emitter, but also the largest investor in renewables. My right hon. Friend will have seen the welcome recent commitment by China to be carbon neutral by 2060. In that and other areas—including, for example, the recent UN General Assembly leaders' pledge for nature on biodiversity, co-led by the UK—we want to work with China.
Session: Topical Questions
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What is being done by the Minister to help bring political stability to Lebanon? The MP also asked if the Foreign Secretary would consider introducing Magnitsky-style sanctions if any political leaders were found culpable for destabilising actions. He highlighted the need for international support in this matter.
Context
The MP questioned the government's efforts to bring about a stable political settlement in Lebanon, especially regarding Magnitsky-style sanctions.
James Cleverly
My right hon. Friends have engaged with Lebanese officials to ensure stability. We support Lebanon through various means, including military aid. Our humanitarian efforts are aligned with diplomatic ones. Future designations under our autonomous sanctions regime will be reviewed but cannot be speculated upon now.
Session: Lebanon
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There is clear evidence of modern slavery in hand car washes across Britain and in garment factories in Leicester. Will the Home Secretary commit to working with Government agencies to eradicate this issue?
Context
The hon. Member highlights reports on modern slavery issues in hand car washes and garment factories.
Priti Patel (The Home Secretary)
I agree with my right hon. Friend's description of modern-day exploitation. We need more from local authorities in investigating hand car washes, and we have established a cross-Government taskforce on the ground in Leicester to address this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps are being taken to develop a defence industrial strategy that supports the armed forces? Philip Dunne highlights the potential for dual-use commercial opportunities from Defence's innovation investments, urging the Government to double its investment in innovation as part of its commitment to making the UK a science superpower.
Context
The Government is conducting work on a UK defence and security industrial strategy to support the armed forces and drive investment, employment, and prosperity.
The Minister for Defence Procurement Ben Wallace
Defence procurement and innovation should be linked to prosperity and alternatives, using technology to enhance prosperity across the United Kingdom. During 2018-19, Defence invested £1.65 billion in research and development, including £580 million on cutting-edge science and technology. The integrated review will focus on innovation and recognising that taxpayers should expect prosperity from their investments.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Flood Recovery Framework
17 April 2024
Responding: Robbie Moore
Main Concerns
['Flooding remains a pressing issue for many constituents who have suffered from severe weather events. The UK is experiencing increased rainfall, with six of the ten wettest years on record since 1998. In Shropshire, multiple flood events have affected properties along the River Severn; in October 2022 and January 2023 alone, over 160 properties were flooded. The complexity of support measures for those affected highlights the need for a more streamlined approach to ensure that assistance reaches all who require it. Flooding in York has worsened significantly since the Boxing Day floods of 2015, with more frequent and prolonged flooding impacting businesses. The current flood recovery framework does not adequately address individual business needs and requires a broader geographical area to qualify for support. With 1,414 sewage releases last year in York alone, there is an urgent need for improved sewer infrastructure.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the government to review eligibility criteria for flood recovery funds to make them fairer and to allocate additional funding to local authorities to handle immediate relief efforts. He also urges consideration of broader measures to support farmers affected by flooding, including reviewing the farming recovery fund criteria to ensure wider coverage. The Minister should provide more consistency in the application of the flood recovery framework, extend it to all businesses affected by flooding, and ensure that council tax payments and business rates are suspended during periods when properties cannot be used. Additionally, there needs to be a strategic plan for sewage management and an insurance scheme for businesses.']
Sewer Discharges And River Pollution Control
15 November 2021
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member is concerned about the uncontrolled dumping of sewage into river systems by water treatment works and the water sewage system, which has been overwhelmed for various reasons. He mentions that his private Member's Bill in 2020 was stimulated by campaign groups who brought attention to this issue, reflecting widespread awareness and horror at the state of rivers due to sewer discharges. The hon. Member disagrees with a previous description of an amendment made to the Bill and emphasizes the need for progressive reduction in sewer discharges enforceable under the new Environment Act."]
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member asks for measures to be included in the upcoming planning Bill to properly separate surface water from foul water systems for new developments, ensuring developers contribute to the capital costs of infrastructure works necessary for full separation and preventing excessive runoff from hard-standing areas causing problems at treatment plants not expanded over recent decades.']
Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme — [Mr Laurence Robertson in the Chair]
27 May 2021
Responding: Paul Scully
Main Concerns
['The green homes grant scheme, despite its ambitious aims to improve energy efficiency and create jobs, faced numerous challenges including delays in opening for applications, difficulties in accessing grants, low uptake by installation companies, and a failure to meet targets. By the time of closure, it had received over 113,000 applications but only achieved 57,500 vouchers issued and 15,500 measures installed. The scheme was also criticised for its short duration and complexity, which hindered its effectiveness in mobilising the energy-efficiency supply chain.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks for a long-term replacement scheme to be funded as part of the spending review announcements, with an easy-to-understand structure that covers a simple hierarchy of measures. He also suggests looking at VAT reduction on renovations and encouraging changes in stamp duty rebates to incentivise energy efficiency improvements.']
Road and Rail Projects 2025-07-08
08 July 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Holocaust Memorial (Centre) Bill - New Clause 1
22 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
War Graves Week
14 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission does extraordinary work keeping alive the memories of over 1.7 million men and women who gave their life in both world wars, tending to graves, memorials and sit...
Defence Spending
24 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran-Israel Update
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Food Security
21 March 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Ways and Means
11 March 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Since 2010, the economy under Conservative Government has seen significant growth despite challenging times. The Chancellor's Budget supports sectors such as the creative industries, which have grown ...
Defence Acquisition Reform
28 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
22 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Damian Collins moved that the House has considered the civil nuclear roadmap. He emphasised the importance of achieving an additional 24 GW of nuclear energy by 2050, noting significant changes in tec...
School Attendance (Support and Guidance) Bill - Clause 1 & Clause 2
02 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the bill to ensure all schools, trusts, local authorities follow best practice guidance on school attendance. It makes it mandatory for bodies to adhere to the detailed guidance published by the...
8
PMQs Asked
39
Ministerial Questions Asked
83
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
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
+117% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+185% above average
This MP:
39
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1615% above average
This MP:
83
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 Philip Dunne's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.