Robert Largan
MP for High Peak
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I am concerned about the difficulties my constituents face in getting face-to-face GP appointments due to the backlog caused by the pandemic. A constituent diagnosed with cancer after being taken to hospital cannot help but wonder if it would have been caught sooner had she seen a doctor in person rather than over the phone. What measures are the Government taking to address this issue?
Context
GPs have faced long hours during the pandemic, dealing with a significant backlog of cases. Constituents are frustrated by difficulty in booking face-to-face GP appointments.
Dominic Raab
The Chancellor has funded a £36 billion package to deal with the NHS backlog. Appointment numbers have returned to pre-pandemic levels, but we understand that patients expect face-to-face consultations when necessary.
Assessment
Did not specify concrete actions or timelines for tackling the backlog and restoring face-to-face appointments beyond funding announcement.
Session: PMQs
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High Peak has some of the worst broadband coverage gaps due to unique geography. We are making progress, but I urge redoubling efforts on ultrafast broadband roll-out, especially to rural areas. Can we build on the kickstart scheme to recruit new generations of skilled engineers for this purpose?
Context
The High Peak region has some of the worst broadband coverage gaps in the UK. The kickstart scheme was successful, but more focused support for key industries is needed.
Boris Johnson
We are working with industry to accelerate rural network coverage. UK coverage has increased thanks to our steps.
Assessment
Did not specifically commit to recruiting a new generation of broadband engineers in High Peak or building on the kickstart scheme for this purpose
Discussed Progress But Did Not Address Specific Ask
Session: PMQs
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He asks if the PM will commit to these projects, specifically mentioning the promise of the bypass to Glossop residents dating back over 50 years.
Context
Largan urges for a major infrastructure package to boost the economy, focusing on broadband expansion, rail upgrades, and construction of the Mottram bypass.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Johnson confirms commitment to Mottram bypass under Road Investment Strategy, expected to create jobs and improve local connectivity. He invites Largan for the opening ceremony.
Session: PMQs
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He seeks assurance from the First Secretary that the Government remain committed to building these needed urgent care centres.
Context
The MP campaigns for new urgent care centres at Stepping Hill Hospital and Tameside Hospital to help NHS staff provide top-notch care.
Dominic Raab (First Secretary of State)
The hon. Member is thanked for championing the NHS, and it's confirmed that Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has been allocated £31 million for a new emergency care campus at Stepping Hill and over £16 million to Tameside general hospital.
Session: PMQs
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The Government deserve considerable credit for their recent announcement to allow safe standing in all premier league grounds. However, the rule change does not permit seat locking for safe standing, which is essential if we are to be able to increase capacity and provide cheaper ticket prices like those in Germany, as the overwhelming majority of fans want. Will the Secretary of State agree to meet me, officials from the Football Association and the English Premier League and colleagues from the all-party parliamentary group for safe standing to discuss the issue and get on—
Context
The MP noted the recent announcement allowing safe standing and expressed concern over seat locking, as it is essential for increasing capacity and providing cheaper ticket prices. The questioner seeks a meeting to discuss this issue further.
Nadine Dorries (Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport)
I assure my hon. Friend that the safety of spectators at football matches was the key priority in the development of the policy. The report found that keeping seats unlocked would offer greater choice to spectators and was supported by the data from the spectator survey. Of course, I am always happy to meet and discuss the matter further.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am proud that a large number of my constituents have welcomed Ukrainian families into their homes as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, and I am pleased to have been able to help a number of those families now living in the High Peak to navigate the visa application process. However, some of those children have had their applications for local schools rejected. May I urge the Home Secretary to have urgent conversations with the Department for Education on solving this issue so that children who are here having fled a war zone can continue their education?
Context
Some children from Ukraine have faced rejection in the local school application process.
Priti Patel (Home Secretary)
My hon. Friend raises an important point. If I may, on behalf of all of us in Government, I will thank and commend all members of the British public who have been supporting our schemes. It is important that we do everything we can across Government to support the education of children in our schools. In April, the Secretary of State for Education got in touch with every single local authority chief executive officer as well as directors of children's services to outline clearly the requirements on schools and the funding coming from Government. I will of course pick up any points that my hon. Friend has from his constituency and raise them directly.
Session: Support for People Fleeing War in Ukraine
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I am sorry to inform the House that Jordan Gatley, from Glossop in my constituency, is reported to have been killed in Ukraine. My thoughts and those of the whole House are with Jordan's family. I am very proud of the support that Britain is giving the Ukrainian people to help them defend their homeland. However, may I ask what steps are being taken to strengthen the Ukrainian state and the Ukrainian armed forces to ensure they can have a strong deterrent against future Russian aggression?
Context
Jordan Gatley, a resident of Glossop who served in the British Army, is reported to have been killed in Ukraine.
James Heappey
My hon. Friend has hit upon the key point. For the last two months or so, discussions have followed two tracks: supporting Ukraine in the fight tomorrow and ensuring they are secure within their borders when this conflict ends. The UK is leading both efforts by bringing together international support and mobilising the UK defence industry.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the Government's commitment to improving flood defences. I pay tribute to the work of Councillor Chris Sizeland, who has been working with me and local residents to tackle flooding around Chinley and Whitehough. In 2019 the town of Whaley Bridge was evacuated following a structural failure in the dam wall of Toddbrook reservoir. I am pleased to report to the House that the construction on the £16 million restoration of the reservoir is due to start next month. Will the Minister update the House on progress in implementing the recommendations of the Balmforth report on that incident so that we can get the tougher oversight needed to ensure that such incidents never happen again?
Context
The MP mentions the Whaley Bridge evacuation in 2019 due to a structural failure at Toddbrook reservoir and asks for updates on implementing the Balmforth report recommendations.
Rebecca Pow
We all remember that event well, and I am pleased to hear my hon. Friend's report that the reservoir has been made safe. Works were completed in 2019 and the long-term plan is under way. Actions to address 15 of the 22 recommendations made in the independent review after the incident are complete.
Session: Flood Defences
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What steps he is taking to strengthen flood defences. The Government are investing a record £5.2 billion in a six-year flood defence investment programme running from 2021 to 2127. This will be invested in about 2,000 new projects and schemes to better protect 336,000 properties. In terms of the effect on the economy, it will save about £32 billion, which is really significant.
Context
The MP inquires about steps being taken to strengthen flood defences, referencing the significant economic impact and property protection benefits.
Rebecca Pow
The Government are investing a record £5.2 billion in a six-year flood defence investment programme running from 2021 to 2127, which will be invested in about 2,000 new projects and schemes to better protect 336,000 properties, saving about £32 billion.
Session: Flood Defences
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I refer Members to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests. I welcome the Government's commitment to negotiating a trade deal with our great friend and ally Israel, which will be of huge benefit to lots of businesses in High Peak and across the country. May I urge the Minister to go further and ensure that any deal does not just include products but looks at services, which make up around 70% of both the UK and Israel's economies? It is an area in which we are both world leaders, and there would be much mutual benefit.
Context
The MP, referencing services as a significant portion of both economies, urges the Minister to ensure that any future deal includes provisions for service-related trade opportunities.
Ranil Jayawardena
Absolutely. My hon. Friend correctly points out that our two economies have strong service sectors but our current deal predominantly caters for trade in goods. That is why we intend to negotiate a more ambitious, comprehensive and innovation-friendly trade deal, which will open up opportunities for British businesses in areas such as tech, data and digital. My hon. Friend will be aware that next month we are hosting the first ever joint innovation and investment summit between our two countries. That will be a key moment as we deepen our relationship, creating opportunities to increase trade and investment between our nations, create new jobs and boost wages.
Session: Trade with Israel
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What recent steps her Department has taken to increase trade with Israel?
Context
The MP inquires about recent steps to increase UK trade with Israel, likely prompted by a desire for economic growth and bilateral cooperation.
Ranil Jayawardena
I am thrilled that our two Prime Ministers have agreed to negotiate an ambitious free trade agreement, with exciting new provisions in digital, data, technology, services and innovation. We have completed our consultation and are analysing the responses now, with a view to launching formal negotiations, along with others, later this year.
Session: Trade with Israel
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Given the reports of thousands being taken as part of forced evacuations—a clear breach of international law—what discussions have been had about any future role for courts?
Context
Concerns over forced evacuations of civilians from Ukraine to Russia, questioning the future role for courts in addressing these actions.
Ben Wallace
The UK is signed up to relevant treaties and respects international law. Discussions focus on Russia's commitment to respecting Ukraine's sovereignty under international law.
Session: Ukraine Territorial Integrity
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An important part of public broadcasting is radio. Last October, the Government's review into digital, audio and radio found that the Hope valley in my constituency has very poor DAB—digital audio broadcasting—service. What are the Government doing to improve digital radio access for rural communities such as the Hope valley?
Context
A Government review found poor DAB service in the Hope valley constituency.
Julia Lopez
I thank my hon. Friend for raising the needs of the Hope valley, which he is right to do. We have conducted a review of this area, and we have been working with commercial radio and the BBC on this issue for a number of years. We do not expect them to be doing a great deal of extra work on DAB roll-out, but I am happy to continue looking into the matter and to consider the issues he highlights in his own patch.
Session: Public Service Broadcasting
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With only 55% of Derbyshire's secondary schools rated good or above, compared to the national average of 80%, if levelling up means anything, it must address this glaring disparity. Will you meet me and other Derbyshire MPs to discuss improving education standards?
Context
Only 55% of secondary schools in Derbyshire are rated good or better, compared to a national benchmark of 80%. This highlights significant educational inequality.
Robin Walker
I will certainly be happy to do that.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the Government's commitment to tackling disparity in our healthcare, particularly important for maternity care. I ask the Minister to speak to her colleagues at the Department of Health and Social Care about Tameside Hospital's need for capital funding in a new maternity unit and antenatal clinic. The current unit is located in the Charlesworth Building built in 1971 and poorly insulated causing equipment issues. The capital funding bid needs support. Will she work with me to deliver better healthcare for women of High Peak?
Context
Tameside Hospital faces a need for capital funding in a new maternity unit and antenatal clinic. The current facilities are outdated, causing equipment issues.
Maria Caulfield (Minister for Patient Safety)
Maternity care is a top priority. Since 2010, stillbirths and neonatal mortality have reduced by 25% and 29%, respectively. The Acorn birth centre at Tameside opened last year and has been well received locally but I am happy to discuss further improvements with the MP.
Session: Topical Questions
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Hundreds of local people have responded to my High Peak GP surgery survey, and I look forward to presenting Ministers with the results shortly. One of the top concerns is about how we can improve access to primary care. One way would be finally to build a major new health centre for Buxton. The local NHS already owns a suitable town centre location with outline planning permission; all it requires is the capital funding. Derbyshire Community Health Service NHS Trust has submitted a strong bid, which I support, so will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss how we can deliver the proposal and improve healthcare for Buxton and the whole High Peak?
Context
Hundreds of local people have responded to the MP's High Peak GP surgery survey. One major concern is about improving access to primary care, which can be achieved by building a new health centre in Buxton.
Sajid Javid
Yes, I will. I looked at the previous bid and have been trying to understand why it was not taken forward. However, I would like to look carefully at the revised bid. I reassure my hon. Friend that more funding is available for such capital projects, and I would be happy to discuss that with him.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last week's Budget included positive news for the High Peak such as tax cuts and business rate relief. However, other towns received millions in investment through the levelling-up fund. As High Peak missed out due to a late submission from Labour council, can the Chancellor assure that there will be a second round and High Peak will still receive priority?
Context
The High Peak missed out on the first round of levelling-up funding, but has since agreed to submit a bid.
Rishi Sunak
I am happy to provide my hon. Friend with that reassurance and I hope that his council engages constructively with him, as so many others have and have seen the benefits of that in last week's announcements. We will open round 2 in due course and it will most likely launch no later than the spring. I can tell him also that we have no plans to change the current way that we assess the priority categorisations, so High Peak should remain as it was.
Session: Topical Questions
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On 3 March, when the Chancellor announced the £4.8 billion levelling-up fund, High Peak was designated one of the top priority areas, and the Government committed to giving more than £100,000 to the council to help it deliver a world-class bid. However, despite my urging, and having had nearly four months, I regret to inform the House that my Labour council has failed to submit a levelling-up fund bid in time. Can my right hon. Friend assure the House and my constituents that there will be a second round for further bids and that High Peak will still be considered a top priority area in any future rounds?
Context
High Peak was designated a top priority area for the £4.8 billion levelling-up fund but the local Labour council failed to submit a bid within four months despite urging from the MP.
Steve Barclay
I understand my hon. Friend's frustration. He will know from the announcement at the Budget that the prospectus set out the process, the types of projects, and indeed how bids will be assessed. To reassure him, there will be further opportunities for local authorities to submit bids to the fund. One of the things that we are encouraging those local authorities to do is to work with elected Members of Parliament in the shaping of those bids, and I hope that they will now take the opportunity to do so.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can I invite the Secretary of State to come up on the moors of the High Peak with me, so he can see the excellent work being done first-hand and so we can make the case for continued investment in this vital restoration?
Context
The Dark Peak area has some of the most depleted peat moorlands in Europe, which are vital for biodiversity and flood risk mitigation.
George Eustice
My hon. Friend makes a very important point. Our peat habitats are vital for our biodiversity, can be a vitally important carbon store and can also help with both drought and flood risk mitigation. We will be dramatically increasing the funds available for peatland restoration.
Session: Topical Questions
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Lots of High Peak parents have been contacting me concerned about the poor state of repair of many of our local children's play areas, including at least one that has had to go without a swing for well over a year. Does the Secretary of State agree with me that instead of spending taxpayers' money and resources on their own pet projects, councils should focus on their core responsibilities such as properly maintaining children's play areas?
Context
Many local children's play areas are in poor condition, and one has been without a swing for over a year. Parents are concerned that councils should focus on maintaining such facilities.
Robert Jenrick
As a parent of three young children, I spend a long time in playgrounds and appreciate their importance to everybody in society. I think it is really important that councils take parks and playgrounds seriously. They may be a non-statutory duty, but they are a very important one to members of the public. We have now had two years of increases in council funding, which were voted on and supported by both sides of this House, so local councils have the resources, and they should prioritise open spaces as we come out of the pandemic.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister update the House on these vital reforms to ensure proper implementation of a new GP data system with necessary safeguards?
Context
The MP welcomes the new GP data system but is concerned about appropriate protections. He requests updates on reforms.
Jo Churchill
The GP data programme will strengthen the system and save lives. Patient data is owned by patients, and extra time until 1 September has been taken to talk to patients, doctors, health charities, and others to build a trusted research environment and ensure secure access.
Session: Covid-19 Restoration of GP Services
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I am organising a workshop between local disability support groups and the DWP tomorrow to discuss the upcoming Green Paper. Ahead of this meeting, will the Minister update us on what steps are being taken to increase access to benefits and support for vulnerable individuals during the pandemic?
Context
Tomorrow, a workshop will be held in the constituency with local disability support groups and DWP representatives to discuss the Green Paper on health and disability.
Justin Tomlinson
Thank you, my hon. Friend. About 50 other MPs have also agreed to host similar events focusing on advocacy, supportive evidence, assessment process, and appeals process as key themes. The Government's priority is supporting those with disabilities and long-term health conditions.
Session: Topical Questions
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After five years, Andy Burnham is finally getting on with franchising bus services in Greater Manchester. Will my hon Friend ensure that local authorities work together to improve cross-border bus routes and deliver a badly needed direct bus from Glossop and Hadfield to Tameside General Hospital?
Context
Andy Burnham is franchising bus services in Greater Manchester, but towns outside the area rely heavily on cross-border bus services.
Andrew Stephenson
Indeed, Mr Speaker. I thank my hon Friend for being such a great champion of active travel across his constituency of High Peak. It is for the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to determine the geographical area of the franchising scheme. Local transport authorities may join together to produce joint plans where local economies and travel-to-work areas overlap significantly.
Session: Rural Transport Connections
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Does the Education Secretary agree that investing in further education and T-levels is vital for our economic recovery? The MP asks for an investment in places such as the High Peak, which could help local people of all ages and backgrounds into good-quality jobs.
Context
The MP supports the Government's plan for jobs, particularly its focus on technical education. He highlights the importance of investing in further education and T-levels to aid economic recovery, improve skills training, and increase opportunities.
Gavin Williamson
I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend. The roll-out of T-levels is vital, as these qualifications have been designed hand in glove with employers to meet their needs. We are putting in £65 million-worth of further investment to link jobs, skills and young people.
Session: T-Levels Industry Placements
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Recently, gangs of bicycle and car thieves have been targeting the High Peak, travelling into the area from Greater Manchester and Yorkshire. Derbyshire police is working hard to try to tackle this problem, but can I urge the Home Secretary to do more to ensure that the different police forces, including the British Transport police, work more closely together to tackle the criminal gangs that operate over county lines?
Context
Gangs of bicycle and car thieves are operating in High Peak, coming from Greater Manchester and Yorkshire. The local Derbyshire police is struggling to tackle this issue.
Priti Patel
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to highlight the blended way in which forces should come together, because county lines cross boundaries. Whether it is the British Transport police, his own police or the neighbouring forces, we need them to pull together to deal with the level of criminality that he has spoken about.
Session: Crime Reduction
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What steps her Department is taking to reduce crime?
Context
The question arises from concerns about rising crime levels and the need for effective interventions.
Priti Patel
The Government have doubled the size of the safer streets fund, which will go towards neighbourhood measures designed to improve public safety and protection.
Session: Crime Reduction
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Politicians of all parties have been promising to build the Mottram bypass for more than 50 years. I am really pleased that Highways England and Balfour Beatty recently signed a contract to build the bypass, and a formal consultation has now been carried out on the detailed proposals, meaning that we are closer than we have ever been before to finally getting it built. Can the Minister assure me that the Government remain committed to building the bypass as soon as possible? The people of Glossop and Hadfield have waited long enough.
Context
Mr. Largan mentions the long-standing promise to build the Mottram bypass in his constituency, noting that recent progress has been made with a contract signed and formal consultation completed.
Jesse Norman
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. He has been a vociferous supporter of this scheme and I can happily confirm that the Government remain committed to upgrading the A57 so as to improve connectivity between Manchester and Sheffield. The development consent order is on track to be submitted shortly and construction is expected to start in early 2023.
Session: Transport Connectivity
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As the UN Human Rights Council meets over the coming weeks, will the Government commit to voting against one-sided resolutions singling out Israel?
Context
The Prime Minister has condemned the UN's Human Rights Council for its disproportionate focus on Israel.
Dominic Raab
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. We have stood up for Israel when it has faced bias and, frankly, politicised attacks in the UN and other forums. We will continue to press for the abolition of item 7, because it is the only country-specific standalone agenda item and it focuses on Israel, and that cannot be right.
Session: Topical Questions
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So far, more than 1,000 local people have taken part in my High Peak crime survey. Many residents have raised concerns about antisocial behaviour and drugs, particularly on Fairfield Road in Buxton. I am really pleased that Derbyshire police are being proactive and just last week made multiple arrests in the area, but I want to make certain that they have the resources that they need. Will the Home Secretary assure the people of High Peak that we will get our fair share of the 20,000 additional police officers?
Context
More than 1,000 local people have taken part in a High Peak crime survey where residents raised concerns about antisocial behaviour and drugs. Derbyshire police are proactive with multiple arrests made recently.
Priti Patel
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to raise these issues. On a fair share of police officers, I understand that his force has already recruited 67 more police officers, and our plans to recruit 20,000 police officers go from strength to strength. I note that Derbyshire police have received over £400,000 in covid surge funding very much to step up on enforcement and fines, and to deal with issues such as antisocial behaviour, which is a particular issue that my hon. Friend has raised on behalf of his constituents.
Session: Covid-19 Support for Police
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What additional support her Department is providing to police officers during the covid-19 outbreak.
Context
The MP inquired about additional support provided to police during the pandemic.
Priti Patel
Throughout this pandemic, we have given the police not just guidance but funding to support them in dealing with the coronavirus outbreak. That also means working with them on increased support around guidance, changes to regulations and legislation. Of course, we also work with them every single day as various measures are constantly kept under review.
Session: Covid-19 Support for Police
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There is a backlog of 55,000 cases in our Crown courts, victims are waiting years for their cases to be heard, and CPS letters fail to be of standard nearly 50% of the time. While we welcome apprenticeships in the CPS, staff levels were cut by 31% between 2011 and 2019, so why have the Government Law Officers failed to get to grips with the fundamental crisis facing the CPS and our criminal justice system?
Context
The question arises from concerns about a backlog of cases, poor CPS letter standards, and staff cuts affecting the criminal justice system.
Michael Ellis
The characterisation that the Crown Prosecution Service is failing is not accepted. The CPS performs well and the inspectorate confirms this performance. Apprenticeships are important for supporting young people and those from other socioeconomic backgrounds, with 3.8% of the workforce being apprentices compared to a national target of 2.3%. This shows the CPS's commitment to diversity.
Session: Crown Prosecution Service Apprenticeships
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What assessment she has made of the adequacy of apprenticeship opportunities with the Crown Prosecution Service. I am grateful for that answer. It is encouraging to hear that the Crown Prosecution Service is offering lots of apprenticeships. However, it is really important that those opportunities are based not just in London but across the whole country, so I ask the Minister: what apprenticeships are being offered in places such as the High Peak?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the distribution of apprenticeships across different regions, particularly outside London.
Michael Ellis
The CPS offers apprenticeships across legal, human resources, finance, project management, leadership and management professions. Apprenticeships are available across England and Wales including CPS East Midlands where High Peak is located with 30 apprentices since 2016 and currently two undertaking solicitor apprenticeship leading to Crown prosecutor role.
Session: Crown Prosecution Service Apprenticeships
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What plans do the Government have to replace these old prisons with modern facilities that are safer for both inmates and guards, much cheaper to run and more effective at rehabilitation and at reducing reoffending rates? There is an opportunity not just dramatically to improve our prisons but to raise significant funds to be reinvested back into the justice system and to free up much-needed land for housing in inner-city areas.
Context
Many old prisons are located in densely populated inner-city areas, raising concerns about safety and effectiveness.
Robert Buckland
My hon. Friend will understand that it is very important that proper calculations are made about prison capacity and that we do not end up in a position like that under the last Labour Government when we were having to use police cells to house prisoners, which was both expensive and, frankly, inhumane. He will know about and will welcome the huge commitment of £4 billion to deliver 18,000 additional prison places—modern places—across the estate by the middle of this decade.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps are being taken to ensure that pension funds make more environmentally sustainable investments in future?
Context
The question addresses the role of pension funds in making environmentally sustainable investments and tackling climate change.
Therese Coffey
The UK is leading the way on this issue with legislation for occupational pension scheme investments, including assessing climate risk and disclosure into statute for pension schemes. This is part of our commitment to tackling climate change ahead of COP26.
Session: Topical Questions
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What support is being provided to businesses affected by tier 3 restrictions and what measures are in place to ease these restrictions?
Context
The MP highlights that High Peak has a lower covid case rate than the national average but is still under tier 3 restrictions, severely impacting the local hospitality industry.
Amanda Milling
The tier 3 restrictions were based on evidence from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies. Additional funding is provided to local authorities under tier 3 measures to support public health initiatives aimed at containing virus spread and easing local restrictions.
Session: Regional Equality
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What progress has been made on regional equality and creating economic opportunities across the UK since the general election?
Context
The question pertains to the government's progress in ensuring that all regions and nations of the UK have equal economic opportunities, particularly after the pandemic.
Amanda Milling
The Government has taken unprecedented fiscal action during the pandemic to support all regions and nations of the UK, protecting jobs and businesses while minimizing damage to the economy.
Session: Regional Equality
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Can the Home Secretary assure me that Derbyshire will get its fair share of those extra officers as soon as possible?
Context
There has been a spate of vehicle thefts in High Peak, and local police have recruited additional officers.
Priti Patel
The hon. Friend's police force has recruited 72 additional police officers and the number is going to go up in line with the commitment to recruit 20,000 more police officers.
Session: Topical Questions
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The unique geography of the Peak District means that we have some of the worst mobile phone coverage blackspots anywhere in the country. I welcome the introduction of the shared rural network but can the Minister provide further information to the House on when my constituents might see some of the benefit of this? Would he agree to meet me so we can discuss how we can roll out better phone coverage to the whole High Peak?
Context
The MP highlights that unique geographical features of the Peak District result in some of the worst mobile phone coverage blackspots, requesting specifics on when his constituents might see improvements.
Matt Warman
The shared rural network is already benefiting some parts of the country but my hon. Friend is right that in areas such as High Peak it cannot come soon enough. I am very happy to meet him to discuss that, and I am very happy for him to join me in continuing to encourage operators to make their plans public as quickly as possible.
Session: Mobile Coverage in Rural Areas
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Given the confirmation by the IAEA that Iran is building a new underground nuclear facility and its enriched uranium exceeds JCPOA limits, will the Minister confirm readiness to consider sanctions if Iran continues non-compliance?
Context
The International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed Iran is constructing an underground nuclear facility, with enriched uranium stockpiles exceeding the limit set in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Dominic Raab
I was in Berlin yesterday for an E3 meeting on Iran's nuclear programme, where we discussed how to maintain and constrain it within JCPOA limits. Over 200 EU sanctions are currently imposed on Iran, and the UK is engaging with the new US Administration to further strengthen measures against Iran's nuclear activities.
Session: Topical Questions
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Echoing the Minister's call for reaching out, I want to know if there is a Departmental strategy ensuring every child in abusive households has access to support. Can you share this strategy?
Context
The MP highlights the importance of support for child victims of domestic abuse and questions the Government's strategy to ensure every child can access necessary help.
Victoria Atkins
The Government is funding charities working with children affected by domestic abuse, amounting to £3 million. We are also mapping services across the country through the work of the Domestic Abuse Commissioner.
Session: Domestic Abuse Victims
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I am concerned about the safety of victims of domestic abuse during lockdown. Despite local charities like Crossroads Derbyshire doing important work, can you confirm if those at risk of abuse are allowed to leave their homes under current covid restrictions?
Context
The MP notes the heightened risk faced by victims during lockdown and recognises local charity Crossroads Derbyshire's efforts in supporting constituents. The Domestic Abuse Bill was under consideration, aiming to protect victims.
Victoria Atkins
Yes, victims of domestic abuse can leave their homes for safety. Immediate dangers should be reported to the police by dialing 999. The gov.uk website lists various services available to those seeking help.
Session: Domestic Abuse Victims
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On Sunday, the new 195 trains finally started running on the Hope Valley line, which runs between Manchester and Sheffield and serves New Mills, Chinley, Edale, Hope and Bamford in my constituency. While that is welcome news and something I have long campaigned for, services are still not frequent enough or reliable enough. To solve that, we need to increase capacity. May I urge the Secretary of State to invest more in this often-overlooked part of the northern powerhouse and finally upgrade the Hope Valley line?
Context
The MP highlights the start of new train services on the Hope Valley line but expresses concern over frequency and reliability. He urges for investment to increase capacity.
Grant Shapps
My hon. Friend is right to campaign for that. I am a great fan of the Hope Valley line. I cannot make an announcement about it today, but as he is aware, Ministers are investigating the possibilities to enhance capacity, and I do not think he will have to wait too long.
Session: Rail Services North of England
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What steps his Department is taking to improve rail services in the north of England?
Context
The MP is seeking information on steps being taken to improve rail services in the northern part of England. He highlights the need for investment and upgrades.
Grant Shapps
I recently announced a £600 million package for the rail network across the north, including £589 million to upgrade and electrify the trans-Pennine route, which is part of a multibillion-pound programme for High Speed North.
Session: Rail Services North of England
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Following the death of George Floyd, there has been peaceful, socially distanced protests in both Buxton and Glossop in my constituency. We should not pretend that there are not very clear differences between this country and the United States. It is 21 years since the Macpherson report and, as a country, we have come a very long way since then, but there is still work to be done. What steps are the Government taking to increase trust in the criminal justice system among the BAME communities?
Context
The question addresses peaceful protests following the death of George Floyd and seeks information on steps taken to address racial disparities.
Robert Buckland
I am very grateful to my hon. Friend for his question. I can enlarge on the points that I made to the hon. Member for Newcastle upon Tyne Central (Chi Onwurah). In February of this year, we published an update against each of the recommendations made by the right hon. Member for Tottenham (Mr Lammy). I have mentioned deferred prosecution schemes. There is also a change to the way in which the use of force in prison is scrutinised. We have completely revised the complaints process to ensure that it is fairer. On the recruitment of BAME people into the system, we are on target to meet our objective with regard to the percentage of Prison Service recruits and have increased the number of senior leaders. As the review recommended, we have concentrated on improving the quality and transparency of data, which ensures that we properly monitor ethnicity. A lot of work is being done, but there is a lot still to do.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Grit Bins
08 February 2022
Main Concerns
['The provision of grit bins in the High Peak area is inadequate due to the extreme weather conditions and the lack of clarity over responsibility between different tiers of local government. Residents face difficulties accessing work, school, and medical appointments due to untreated icy roads. In addition, there are concerns about emergency service access during severe weather events and the long-term health impacts on elderly residents.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to consider legislative changes to clarify responsibility for grit bin provision in two-tier authorities and encourage developers to include basic amenities such as grit bins when building new developments.']
Breast Cancer Screening — [Sir Edward Leigh in the Chair]
16 December 2020
Responding: Jo Churchill
Main Concerns
["Every year, one in seven women will develop breast cancer, which is 55,000 women annually. Additionally, around 1,000 women die from breast cancer every month. In the High Peak area alone, an estimated 223 people develop breast cancer each year and 41 die from it. Early diagnosis significantly increases survival rates, yet screening uptake in Robert Largan's constituency is below the national average at 69.7% compared to the England average of 72.4%. The withdrawal of mobile screening units due to covid has exacerbated accessibility issues for constituents."]
Specific Asks
['Robert Largan asks the government to reinstate the mobile breast cancer screening unit in Buxton, Chapel-en-le-Frith and New Mills as a matter of urgency. He also queries what steps are being taken to ensure women respond to invitations for screening and how many have been screened this year compared with last.']
Energy
24 May 2024
General Debate
Led by this MP
Moves that the regulations be approved, explaining that they are technical and consequential to the Energy Act 2023. He describes the creation of an independent system operator and planner (ISOP) as a...
RSE Curriculum: Northern Ireland Schools
12 September 2023
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
Carla Lockhart expressed her opposition to the proposed changes in RSE regulations for post-primary schools in Northern Ireland, emphasising concerns over lack of consultation and potential ideologica...
Economic Situation
12 October 2022
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Tributes to Her Late Majesty the Queen
10 September 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
HS2 (High Speed Rail) Bill - Section from Crewe to Manchester
20 June 2022
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment proposes the construction of a high-speed rail route from Crewe to Manchester, which will connect the UK’s three largest conurbations. It aims to double capacity on one of the busiest ra...
Rail Strikes
15 June 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The railway is a vital legacy connecting north and south but has fallen behind due to inefficiency. The pandemic caused a loss of around one-fifth of passengers and income; the Government invested £16...
Transport
19 May 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government have spent billions supporting the transport industry over the past two years to ensure key workers and essential goods could get to where they needed to be. Andrew Stephenson highlight...
Making Britain the Best Place to Grow Up and Grow Old
16 May 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
In honour of Her Majesty's jubilee year, the Government will focus on delivering a Queen’s Speech that rises to the scale of the challenges we face and addresses key issues such as education, healthca...
Business Question
12 May 2022
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Levelling Up
02 February 2022
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
4
PMQs Asked
46
Ministerial Questions Asked
64
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
+9% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+243% above average
This MP:
46
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1217% above average
This MP:
64
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 Robert Largan's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.