Sally-Ann Hart
MP for Hastings and Rye
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Would the Deputy Prime Minister agree that voting for Conservative candidates in upcoming elections will ensure local voters are heard, local democracy is upheld and better services are delivered?
Context
MP questions the loss of local democratic voice in a borough council due to national party policies.
Oliver Dowden
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to highlight the really serious concerns about Labour councillors in Hastings. One former Labour councillor said that Labour are no longer providing “the policies, the support, or the focus on local government”. I could not have put it better myself.
Assessment
The questioner asked for agreement regarding voting Conservative to ensure democratic voice and service delivery. The answer did not directly address this issue but criticized Labour's stance in Hastings.
Criticized Labour'S Policies
Highlighted Concerns About Local Governance
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking carers for their invaluable contributions, congratulating organisations on receiving awards, and celebrating national achievements?
Context
Carers across Hastings and Rye were celebrated last week.
Rishi Sunak
I join my hon. Friend in congratulating carers on all their awards, recognising their extraordinary commitment.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Recently I presented a Prime Minister's Points of Light award to Joan Willett and two other Hastings and Rye residents were celebrated as community champions at No. 10. Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking all our fantastic volunteers and community champions, not only in Hastings and Rye but throughout the United Kingdom, and will he continue to bring them together in celebration?
Context
The MP highlighted the recognition of local community members for their volunteer work, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging such contributions.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend and I am absolutely delighted that Joan received her Points of Light award. Volunteers and community champions such as Joan, Anthony and Alastair all make important contributions to their local community and we are all grateful to them. Every month, millions do the same thing and they deserve our praise. Their generosity is integral to what makes our country and our communities special, and it is right that we do everything we can to celebrate them.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
As a proud maritime nation, the United Kingdom has long relied on its coastal communities for national prosperity, but today too many of them face shared challenges and disproportionately high levels of deprivation. Does my right hon. Friend agree that to ensure beautiful constituencies such as Hastings and Rye can unleash their full potential, a specific and targeted Government strategy focusing on coastal communities is needed; and will he meet me to discuss this?
Context
The UK's coastal areas face shared challenges and high levels of deprivation, impacting their economic potential. The levelling-up White Paper aims to address these issues.
Boris Johnson
Yes indeed, and if my hon. Friend looks at the levelling-up White Paper she will find that it is clearly directed at enhancing and improving the lives of people in our coastal communities, tilting resource and attention to those fantastic communities. I will make sure that she gets a meeting with the relevant Minister as soon as possible.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I echo the Prime Minister's thanks to all our staff for their hard work this last year. I very much welcome the Government's levelling-up agenda to ensure that opportunity and economic freedoms are enjoyed by every person across our four nations. Hastings and Rye is being held back, prevented from achieving its potential largely or partly due to a lack of transport infrastructure. Will my right hon. Friend promise to consider the business case for the HS1 extension from Ashford through to Hastings, Bexhill and Eastbourne, and commit to the funding necessary?
Context
Hastings and Rye faces transport infrastructure challenges that impede economic growth. The local business case for extending HS1 to include Hastings, Bexhill, and Eastbourne is under review by the Department for Transport.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend is a fantastic advocate for the people of Hastings and Rye, and she has made the case to me before for the improvement to transport that she recommends. I know that this particular extension is being reviewed by the Department for Transport right now, and a decision will be made in due course.
Assessment
The specific commitment or funding necessary was not addressed; only mentioned review in progress without timeline or figures
Under Review
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
In my constituency, Chapman's of Rye acts as an export hub for local fish going across the English channel but encounters challenging and expensive regulations. Mr Chapman seeks support for developing Rye as a crucial export center in Kent and Sussex. Would the Prime Minister visit this enterprise to provide assistance?
Context
Chapman's of Rye is facing difficulties in exporting fish across the English channel due to red tape. The business aims to develop Rye as a vital export hub but faces challenges.
Boris Johnson
The government is addressing red tape issues with an immediate £23 million fund for affected businesses. Additionally, a long-term programme of £100 million investment in the UK fishing industry will provide equipment and processing support.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Beautiful Hastings and Rye is heavily dependent on tourism as a major driver in the local economy. Covid-19 has badly hit the tourism, leisure and hospitality industries. Has my right hon. Friend considered what measures are needed, first, to encourage domestic tourism, and secondly, to ensure that tourism and tourism-related businesses are given the right support to enable recovery from the impact of covid-19 and revive our local economies?
Context
Tourism, leisure and hospitality industries are significantly affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Dominic Raab (First Secretary of State, Secretary of State for Justice)
My hon. Friend makes a really important point. We know that the coronavirus is significantly affecting the tourism industry. That point was made by the hon. Member for Manchester Central (Lucy Powell) as well. The Chancellor has set out unprecedented support for businesses and workers, including those in the tourism sector. That includes business rate support for hospitality and leisure businesses. We have also announced a £1.3 million scheme through VisitEngland to provide support to destination management organisations at risk of closure because of the coronavirus pandemic in order to see them through this difficult time.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
With our Prime Minister's vision, this Conservative Government have an incredible opportunity to deliver change by driving forward the levelling up of parts of the country that have lagged behind London. Will the Prime Minister confirm beautiful Hastings and Rye will not be overlooked in the process of levelling up?
Context
The context is the Government's levelling-up agenda to invest in parts of the country lagging behind London, focusing on Hastings and Rye.
Boris Johnson
I can confirm that the infrastructure revolution will penetrate all the way to Hastings and Rye. There will be an additional £100 million for the redevelopment of Conquest Hospital and Eastbourne District General Hospital, which will benefit my hon. Friend's constituents.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The Government are rightly focusing on technical as well as academic education with the new British standard. University technical college sleeves would support the Government to enhance pre-16 technical education in secondary schools. Will the extra £50 million made available for technical education in schools in the autumn statement be available for UTC sleeves?
Context
The Government has allocated £50 million for technical education in the autumn statement.
Robert Halfon
My hon. Friend is a champion for UTCs and technical education. I am delighted that the Secretary of State recently approved two more UTCs. A couple of weeks ago I visited the brilliant Harlow BMAT STEM Academy, which is a UTC, and UTC Portsmouth. We will respond shortly to Lord Baker's request for a UTC sleeve pilot, as she mentioned.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
A recent study showed that eating a healthy breakfast can enhance the nutritional intake of vulnerable children, aiding their physical and cognitive growth as well as their mental health. Will my hon. Friend work with Department for Education colleagues to expand school breakfast provision in order to mitigate the impact of child food insecurity?
Context
A study by Magic Breakfast and British Nutrition Foundation indicated that healthy breakfasts can improve children's nutritional intake, physical and cognitive development, and mental health.
Maria Caulfield
We seek a cross-Government approach for mental health provision, as outlined in our suicide prevention strategy which involves multiple Departments. Regarding support for nutrition in schools, I will raise this with colleagues in the Department for Education to explore further actions.
Session: Cost of Living Impact on Mental Health
View All Questions -->
Is it not the case that the Scottish Government have consistently strayed outside the limits of the devolution settlements, so it is very difficult to take the SNP seriously as a defender of devolution when it has so little respect for the current settlement?
Context
Concern about SNP-Green government's lack of respect for the devolution settlement.
Alister Jack
My hon. Friend is right. Everyone forgets that the Scottish Government get up every day and go to work to destroy devolution and the United Kingdom. The defenders of devolution and the strengtheners of the United Kingdom are this Government.
Session: Devolution in Scotland
View All Questions -->
What assessment has she made of the strength of the legal profession in rural areas?
Context
The question focuses on the assessment of solicitors' strength in remote regions.
Michael Tomlinson
The Solicitor General mentions a 'law tour' to meet lawyers, including high street solicitors on the Welsh borders, highlighting their importance. More details will be provided about the law tour.
Session: Solicitors Civil Society
View All Questions -->
What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that the presence of seals does not result in the decimation of our fishing communities, let alone the fish?
Context
Fishermen off the coast of Hastings and Rye are suffering due to a growing seal colony affecting their ability to fish.
Mark Spencer
We are working alongside the Marine Management Organisation to assess non-lethal seal deterrent options to keep seals away from fishing catches, and we will publish an evidenced report on targeted acoustic startle technology later this year. We are also considering the next steps, including for net fisheries, under our Clean Catch programme.
Session: Fishing Communities
View All Questions -->
Will my right hon. Friend join me in thanking the National Literacy Trust and Bloomsbury Publishing for including a number of schools in Hastings and St Leonards in their pioneering new reading programme, which is specifically aimed at persuading more children to read for pleasure?
Context
The National Literacy Trust and Bloomsbury Publishing launched a new reading programme aimed at persuading more children to read for pleasure.
Nick Gibb
I recently met Jonathan Douglas of the National Literacy Trust, and I thank the trust for its enormous contribution to raising the profile of reading for pleasure in schools. Its new programme involves working with seven Brighton Academies Trust schools throughout Hastings.
Session: Reading Standards Primary-age Children
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to improve standards of reading of primary age children? The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study ranked England fourth out of 43 participating countries for nine and ten-year-olds. Since 2012, we have introduced a phonics screening check for six-year-olds.
Context
The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study was published recently, placing England fourth among 43 countries. In 2012, the phonics screening check was introduced.
Nick Gibb
The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study was published recently placing England fourth among 43 countries. In 2012, the phonics screening check for six-year-olds was introduced; in 2019, before the pandemic, 82% of pupils reached expected standards after a transformation in phonics teaching.
Session: Reading Standards Primary-age Children
View All Questions -->
Can my right hon. Friend join me in thanking local civil servants for their hard work delivering services, particularly during recent local elections?
Context
Local civil servants have been working positively with the MP to deliver services, especially during local elections.
Jeremy Quin
We endorse the MP's statement and appreciate the work of civil servants at both local and national levels.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
In addition to the roll-out of family hubs, what steps is my hon. Friend taking to ensure that this fantastic policy has long-term funding to maximise long-term benefits?
Context
East Sussex County Council submitted a bid for family hubs across East Sussex. The MP seeks to ensure that the programme has long-term funding.
Gillian Keegan
I strongly agree with my hon. Friend and we are funding 75 councils for the current spending review period, with no doubt that excellent work in East Sussex will make the case for further investment.
Session: Family Hubs and Start for Life Programme
View All Questions -->
Does the Minister agree that the United Kingdom securing the double taxation agreement with Brazil, with its 212 million population, is a very significant event for many Scottish exporting businesses, and that the UK's work to agree geographical indication for Scottish whisky in Brazil will help secure even more jobs in Scotland?
Context
Discussion on the double taxation agreement with Brazil and its impact on Scottish exporting businesses.
John Lamont
Yes, I do agree, and I commend my hon. Friend for his efforts as the Government's trade envoy to Brazil. As he will know, Scotland exports the most goods from the United Kingdom to Brazil, so it stands to benefit greatly from the agreement on double taxation, when implemented. Given the importance of the Brazil export market, I also share his ambition of securing GI protection for Scottish whisky in Brazil as soon as possible, with the obvious benefits this will bring to both producers and consumers of our national drink.
Session: International Trade Links
View All Questions -->
What steps are being taken to work with partners across Europe to share intelligence and resources for prosecuting criminals involved in people-smuggling? Organised crime groups operate internationally; therefore, cross-border cooperation is essential.
Context
Organised illegal immigration is a transnational issue, requiring collaboration across Europe. The question aims to understand the steps being taken to share intelligence and resources.
Victoria Prentis
The Government routinely works with international partners through the CPS criminal justice adviser in France who supports prosecutions on both sides of the channel. Collaboration also occurs through Eurojust for sharing evidence-gathering where appropriate.
Session: People Traffickers Prosecution Rates
View All Questions -->
Social mobility is more important than income inequality, with access to culture playing a role. Four organisations in Hastings and Rye will receive nearly £2.5 million between 2023 and 2026. Will my right hon Friend join me in congratulating these organisations?
Context
Four organisations in Hastings and Rye received funding to support social mobility through access to culture and heritage.
Paul Scully
I entirely agree that social mobility is at the heart of what we want to do. I congratulate those four institutions, and if the Secretary of State or Minister will not come to Hastings and Rye, I certainly will.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
There are direct links between education and reducing reoffending. Education is a factor in promoting reintegration and rehabilitation. While there is rightly a focus in prison on education for employment, too many prisoners have very poor literacy skills, which impacts their ability to access education. What steps is my right hon. Friend taking to improve literacy in the prison population?
Context
Too many prisoners have very poor literacy skills, which impacts their ability to access education.
Damian Hinds
My hon. Friend is dead right: literacy is fundamental, including, of course, to access those other parts of education. I welcome the work of organisations such as the Shannon Trust and I welcome the recent Ofsted report. We are sharpening our focus, creating a literacy innovation fund.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Can the Secretary of State confirm that implementing universal support will be considered to help those facing barriers to work?
Context
There has been an increase in working-age benefit claimants and public spending since 2019, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current support measures.
Mel Stride
I agree entirely with my hon. Friend that work is the best route out of poverty, and in that regard I commend her for her private Member's Bill, which the Department is pleased to support. Our low unemployment rate demonstrates our extensive support for those moving into work; universal support has been replaced by Help to Claim, which provides tailored support to individuals making a universal credit claim across England, Scotland and Wales.
Session: Economically Inactive People
View All Questions -->
In 2011, Ofcom estimated that only 3% of homes and businesses in East Sussex had access to superfast broadband, putting the county in the fourth quintile nationally. Now the figure stands at 98%. We have also seen local villages such as Westfield and Three Oaks working really hard to take advantage of the Government's national rural gigabit voucher scheme, supported by the East Sussex rural gigabit top-up scheme.
Context
The MP is concerned about delivering full-fibre and gigabit-capable broadband by 2025, specifically focusing on progress made in East Sussex.
Nadine Dorries
I thank my hon. Friend for the work that she did on the Committee that considered the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Bill—vital legislation to give all parts of the country great connectivity. I join her in thanking East Sussex County Council and parish councils across the country that have supported local communities to benefit from our £210 million gigabit broadband voucher scheme.
Session: Full-fibre and Gigabit-capable Broadband
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to deliver full-fibre and gigabit-capable broadband by 2025. In 2011, Ofcom estimated that only 3% of homes and businesses in East Sussex had access to superfast broadband, putting the county in the fourth quintile nationally. Now the figure stands at 98%. We have also seen local villages such as Westfield and Three Oaks working really hard to take advantage of the Government's national rural gigabit voucher scheme.
Context
The MP is concerned about delivering full-fibre and gigabit-capable broadband by 2025.
Nadine Dorries
I thank my hon. Friend for the work that she did on the Committee that considered the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Bill—vital legislation to give all parts of the country great connectivity. I join her in thanking East Sussex County Council and parish councils across the country that have supported local communities to benefit from our £210 million gigabit broadband voucher scheme.
Session: Full-fibre and Gigabit-capable Broadband
View All Questions -->
The priority of the UK shared prosperity fund is to empower local communities, business and people, with the funding for delivery going directly to local authorities in Wales. Can my right hon. Friend outline the steps he is taking to work directly with local communities in Wales to ensure the delivery of local priorities, and the benefits that that will bring to people, communities and businesses in Wales?
Context
Concern about the implementation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and its direct impact on local communities in Wales.
Simon Hart
My hon. Friend makes a good point about devolution. Of course, it frustrates Opposition Members that we are taking devolution to its literal limit as far as the funds are concerned; we are going to 22 local authority stakeholders across Wales.
Session: UK Shared Prosperity Fund
View All Questions -->
What discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential merits of the UK shared prosperity fund for Wales. With a £585 million allocation for Wales, there is interest in how this funding will be utilized to level up communities across the region.
Context
Discussions on how the UK Shared Prosperity Fund can benefit Wales, particularly in terms of local empowerment and alignment with community priorities.
Simon Hart
I have regular discussions with ministerial colleagues on how Wales's £585 million share of the UKSPF will level up communities across Wales. With local authorities, business, the third sector and civil society fully engaged, the UKSPF will mean quicker delivery, better targeting and closer alignment with local priorities than previous EU funding.
Session: UK Shared Prosperity Fund
View All Questions -->
What steps is my right hon. Friend taking to support such families, thereby helping to make our communities stronger and safer?
Context
The question follows a discussion on the importance of supporting families in reducing offending.
Dominic Raab (Secretary of State for Justice)
The new builds have in-cell technology that can facilitate dialogue and close family ties, as well as family centres to ensure that the ties that bind are strengthened and not weakened.
Session: Reoffending Rates
View All Questions -->
My constituents are concerned about the environment and climate change, but also aware that our local businesses need to expand their trade exports. What steps is my hon. Friend taking to tackle climate change through trade policy?
Context
Concerns about environmental impact while supporting local businesses post-Brexit.
Mike Freer
Last month the Secretary of State set out priorities for green trade, both in the global green transition and in maximising opportunities for the UK by driving global action on trade and the environment multilaterally through our engagement in the G7 and the World Trade Organisation while strengthening bilateral co-operation through our free trade agreement agenda. By 2030, low-carbon industries could generate up to £170 billion-worth of UK exports. For example, UKEF's climate change strategy commits it to achieving net zero across its portfolio and operations by 2050. In 2021, UKEF provided £3.6 billion-worth of support for sustainable projects.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
For centuries, Scotland and the rest of the UK have had a united defence stance. What assessment has been made of the direct and indirect impacts that Scotland benefits from as a result of being part of the UK?
Context
No specific incident or statistic mentioned, but the context is about the benefits Scotland gains from being part of the United Kingdom's defence.
Alister Jack
The benefits are enormous. The UK strategic bases in Scotland serve to make the whole of the United Kingdom safer. MOD expenditure with industry and commerce totalled almost £2 billion last year, and defence investment in Scottish shipbuilding will see order books full until the 2030s. A recent contract worth £30 million was awarded to maintain Royal Navy's two aircraft carriers, securing 300 jobs for a decade.
Session: Future Defence Policy and the Armed Forces
View All Questions -->
What recent discussions have there been with Cabinet colleagues on future defence policy and the role of the armed forces in Scotland?
Context
No specific incident or statistic mentioned, but the context is about ongoing discussions on defence policies affecting Scotland.
Alister Jack
I have regular discussions with Cabinet colleagues and the Ministry of Defence. The integrated review sets out the Government's ambitions for defence and foreign policy over the next decade. British armed forces personnel in Scotland play a crucial role in defending the whole of the United Kingdom and our allies, and will continue to do so.
Session: Future Defence Policy and the Armed Forces
View All Questions -->
The jobs of the future, especially in the green industries, require technical skills, and investing in people to improve their technical skills is vital to the Government's levelling-up agenda, which is particularly important in beautiful Hastings and Rye. What steps is my hon. Friend taking to increase the technical skills levels of people who are already in work?
Context
Investment in technical skills is vital to the Government's levelling-up agenda.
Mims Davies
I thank my hon. Friend for that question, which I think will interest the hon. Member for Wirral South (Alison McGovern) as well. From April this year, our new DWP in-work progression offer will support working universal credit claimants to progress and increase their earnings. It will include better support to upskill and retrain, and low-paid workers are eligible for training funded by the Department for Education via skills boot camps in digital engineering and the green sectors.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Given a recent incident involving migrants entering the UK near Rye, how will MOD work with Border Force and Home Office to better secure borders?
Context
A boat with migrants recently grounded off Rye harbour, highlighting border security issues.
Ben Wallace
MOD is working on Operation Isotrope to enhance cross-Government asset control in tackling illegal migration through the channel.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Given the current global situation, will he make a statement on his departmental responsibilities?
Context
Global events impact MOD's work.
Ben Wallace
The Ministry is committed to delivering modernisation of armed forces. We published the “Defence Equipment Plan 2021-2031”, setting out plans backed by £24 billion spending increase over four years.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What further steps is my hon. Friend taking to ensure that the UK's use of cyber-space enhances the UK's economic and social prosperity and national security, and ensures a strong, cohesive and resilient society while maintaining our core values of freedom, fairness and the rule of law?
Context
The MP is seeking further clarification on how the government aims to use cyber capabilities to enhance national security, economy, and society.
Steve Barclay
My hon. Friend raises an extremely important point. That is why the strategy sets out a whole of society approach, including a focus on building skills and the highest standards in cyber-security across society. Over the last five years, we have seen the cyber sector grow significantly, with more than 1,400 businesses generating revenues of £8.9 billion last year alone, and supporting 46,700 skilled jobs. That is also why we are targeting key sectors as part of that strategy, such as through the CyberFirst programme, which will ensure that 6,500 pupils from 600 schools can benefit, in particular by attracting girls into that competition so that they are a part of the cyber-strategy.
Session: Cyber-security
View All Questions -->
After visiting Orkney, my committee was impressed by the progress made in tidal stream technology which is less expensive than tidal lagoon barrage technology. I am delighted that the renewable energy auction will include a ringfenced allocation for tidal stream power for the first time. How will this £20 million fund turbocharge the potential of this form of renewable energy in Scotland?
Context
The Scottish Affairs Committee visited Orkney to gather evidence on renewable energy, where they observed the potential and cost-effectiveness of tidal stream technology compared to other options.
Iain Stewart
My hon. Friend and her colleagues on the Committee had the opportunity to visit Orkney, where I also went in August and was hugely impressed by the innovation taking place there. The principle behind contracts for difference is that it gives renewables the confidence to invest long-term. Scotland as a whole, especially Orkney, will be at the forefront of this technology.
Session: Tidal Power
View All Questions -->
What assessment has the Department made of the effectiveness of support for the Scottish tidal power sector? The committee's visit to Orkney highlighted the impressive progress in tidal stream technology which is less expensive than tidal lagoon barrage technology. I am pleased that the renewable energy auction will include a £20 million ringfenced allocation for tidal stream technology, and want to know how this will further stimulate growth in this sector.
Context
The Scottish Affairs Committee visited Orkney to gather evidence on renewable energy, where they observed the potential and cost-effectiveness of tidal stream technology compared to other options.
Iain Stewart
The Government recently announced a £20 million ringfenced allocation for tidal stream technology within the new contracts for difference round, enabling Scotland to capitalize on its vast potential. I visited Orkney in August and was impressed by the innovative work being done there. Contracts for difference provide long-term investment confidence for renewables, positioning Scotland as a leader in this field.
Session: Tidal Power
View All Questions -->
What steps is my hon. Friend taking to work with our NATO and European allies and with the Baltic states to help to build their cyber-capabilities, communication strategies and resilience?
Context
The question delves into the impact of Russian disinformation on the Baltic states, including undermining confidence and sowing social tensions. It seeks steps taken to support cyber capabilities and communication strategies.
Vicky Ford
The UK and Baltic states are close partners in international efforts to tackle disinformation. The UK's counter-disinformation and media development programme is providing funding in this financial year across the Baltic states. The programme builds collective resilience to Russian information operations through strategic communications, exposing disinformation and supporting independent media and civil society.
Session: Baltic States Economic and Security Relationship
View All Questions -->
What diplomatic steps has she taken to help strengthen the UK's economic and security relationship with the Baltic states?
Context
The question addresses the UK's efforts to strengthen economic and security ties with Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Vicky Ford
The UK has a close working relationship with the Baltic states Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, collaborating together in NATO and in the Joint Expeditionary Force. The Foreign Secretary hosted the Baltic Foreign Ministers at Chevening on 11 October and they discussed working together to strengthen NATO, shared security concerns and UK-Baltic economic co-operation.
Session: Baltic States Economic and Security Relationship
View All Questions -->
The Prime Minister has backed a stronger code of conduct for MPs to ensure that an MP's primary job is, and must be, to serve their constituents, and to represent their interests in Parliament rather than those of private businesses—or trade unions, for that matter. Does my right hon. Friend agree that the changes to the code of conduct suggested by the Prime Minister will create up-to-date, effective and rigorous rules?
Context
The Prime Minister has proposed a stronger code of conduct for MPs to ensure their primary job is to serve constituents, not private businesses or trade unions.
Steve Barclay
I do agree with my hon. Friend. It is an MP's primary job to serve their constituents and to represent their interests in Parliament, and indeed, the vast majority of MPs work tirelessly for their constituents.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
According to the “Preparing for the Civil Service Verbal and Numerical tests” section of the Government website, these tests are fair and free from bias and discrimination, but they are based on algorithms to ensure that a person meets the requirements of a particular job level. What steps is my right hon. Friend taking to ensure that the civil service employs individuals from a broad spectrum of political beliefs?
Context
Concerns about the fairness and political neutrality of civil service recruitment tests.
Steve Barclay
The tests to which my hon. Friend refers do not assess political beliefs; they are focused on reasoning ability in relation to verbal and numerical skills. However, the point she raises is addressed through the Places for Growth programme, which, by recruiting civil servants in larger numbers from across the whole of the United Kingdom, will facilitate far greater diversity through our recruitment.
Session: Civil Service Jobs outside London
View All Questions -->
The UK is already one of the most attractive investment destinations in the world and this investment is vital to levelling up the country, particularly investment in new technologies and green innovation. Will the Secretary of State confirm that she is working to encourage this type of investment to help us to progress to net zero emissions and deliver on the Prime Minister's excellent 10-point plan?
Context
The UK is already a leading destination for foreign direct investment, with a focus on green technologies and innovation to support the country's goal of reaching net zero emissions.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Absolutely. The Global Investment Summit, which we hosted earlier this week in London, saw 200 of the world's most important investors coming to London to hear how they could be part of the UK's world leadership in green technologies; £6 billion of investment was committed to offshore wind and millions to many, many different new technologies. We had the opportunity to showcase many of the UK's leading future solutions to our green challenge and we look forward to continuing to increase that inward investment to help us to deliver them.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I have a number of livestock, cattle and sheep farmers in my beautiful Hastings and Rye constituency in East Sussex, of which I am very proud. On global export opportunities for my farmers, what steps is my right hon. Friend taking to differentiate UK lamb or beef from that from other parts of the world, for example by establishing a UK brand? Is she developing an export strategy specifically for that purpose?
Context
The Secretary of State is being asked about steps to differentiate UK beef and lamb from products from other parts of the world.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Our fantastic beef and lamb are world renowned for high welfare and environmental standards, and indeed for excellent flavour. The cross-Government GREAT Britain and Northern Ireland campaign gives global brand recognition to the UK's offer, including our world-class food and drink, which we are proud to promote around the world. Our agricultural food and drink Open Doors campaign, launched earlier this year, is helping UK agribusinesses seize the opportunities presented by our new trade agreements.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Tourism and hospitality has often been viewed as a Cinderella industry, but it is crucial to the economy post-covid-19, with over 30% contribution in constituencies like Hastings and Rye. What steps are being taken to encourage young people to choose this industry?
Context
The tourism and hospitality industry is vital for local and UK economies, offering a wide range of opportunities. There's concern about attracting young people into this sector.
Nigel Huddleston
We recognise the importance of recovering from the pandemic with a more resilient tourism industry offering exciting, good-quality jobs and long-term careers. We work closely with the Tourism Industry Council to ensure that the sector is signposted to key Government initiatives such as the £2.5 billion national skills fund and the UK-wide kickstart scheme.
Session: Tourism Industry
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to support the recovery of the tourism industry. The Government have already provided over £35 billion for the sector in grants, loans and tax breaks during the pandemic. What additional steps are being taken beyond this?
Context
The question arises from the need to support the tourism industry's recovery after the pandemic, which has been financially strained.
Nigel Huddleston
The Government have already provided more than £35 billion for the tourism, leisure and hospitality sectors in the form of grants, loans and tax breaks throughout the pandemic. The £10 million national lottery days out campaign will launch next month to stimulate demand for off-season day trips to tourist sites across the UK.
Session: Tourism Industry
View All Questions -->
In many villages, such as Winchelsea Beach in my beautiful constituency, sewage or foul water drainage is not separate from rain water and storm water drainage. There is a combined system, which means that at times of high rainfall, many residents suffer sewage flooding in their gardens. Does my right hon. Friend agree that in view of environmental and health concerns, it is imperative that sewage is kept in a separate pipe from rainwater? If so, what steps will he take to ensure that these changes happen?
Context
In many villages, sewage or foul water drainage is not separate from rainwater drainage. This results in sewage flooding during high rainfall.
George Eustice
My hon. Friend makes a very important point. Some of the challenges we have are typically with houses built in the Victorian era where, as she says, the street drainage system goes into the foul water sewage system. That can lead to it being overwhelmed at times. Most developments that have taken place since the 1960s do have surface water drainage separated from foul water sewage systems. We have set up a taskforce to look at how we can address this problem and, in particular, reduce the use of combined sewage overflows.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does my right hon. Friend agree that one of the best possible investments the UK can make with its aid budget is in the education of girls globally? Will he outline the steps he is taking to further that aim at the Global Partnership for Education next week?
Context
The question arises from discussions around effective use of the UK's aid budget. The speaker emphasises the importance of investing in global girls' education.
Dominic Raab
We have just made the biggest ever donation to the Global Partnership for Education, a 15% increase on last time. As a result, at the G7 we corralled one of the biggest G7 sets of donations—close to $3 billion. We are hosting, with our Kenyan friends, the Global Education summit in the next few days. The point is that, through the leadership of our official development assistance contribution and our diplomatic leadership, we are bringing the world together in pursuit of two targets: 40 million more girls receiving 12 years quality education, and 20 million more girls literate by the age of 10.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Let us consider these words about mental health services: “prior to 2017, no government invested in or prioritised MH services.” Those are not my words but the words of the Minister for Patient Safety, Suicide Prevention and Mental Health, the hon. Member for Mid Bedfordshire (Ms Dorries). Indeed, the new Secretary of State was the architect of these cuts, during his time as a Treasury Minister. The unparalleled devastation he left behind has been simply staggering, so does he agree with his Minister? Can he explain to us why 140,000 children were turned away from mental health services last year? Can he explain why a quarter of mental health beds have been cut since 2010? Is he ashamed of his track record?
Context
The Minister for Patient Safety, Suicide Prevention and Mental Health claimed that no government before 2017 invested in or prioritised mental health services.
Sajid Javid
The hon. Lady will know that the NHS long-term plan that has been set out by this Government is committed to a transformation in mental health services and mental health spending; some £2.3 billion extra is being invested by 2023-24. In addition, she will be aware of the mental healthcare White Paper and the mental health recovery action plan.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust has the potential to get hundreds of millions in investment as part of the Government's NHS estate infrastructure improvement plan. Will funding be allocated on a two to three-year basis, so that the NHS can better plan its funding and estates plans? Where funding has been indicated for a longer term, what plans are there to ensure that providers have sufficient resource in the shorter term to address immediate issues, or to support covid or recovery?
Context
The East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust requires significant investment as part of the Government's NHS estate infrastructure improvement plan.
Sajid Javid
We have put more and more capital into the NHS. There are always representations from hon. Members, including you, Mr Speaker, for even more capital. My hon. Friend is right to raise the issue of the importance of local healthcare systems, which will need more capital funding as we progress. She will know that we set out our capital plans for this financial year, 2021-22, but she is right to say that multi-year funding will mean that trusts can plan better, and that is a priority; we want the spending review to have more sight and better planning for capital.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Parents and Carers of Infants: Support
12 March 2024
Responding: Andrea Leadsom
Main Concerns
['The arrival of a new baby can bring joy but also stress and anxiety for families. Many parents struggle to access information on support services available, with some respondents paying for private providers or relying on online communities. Feedback suggested that better dissemination of consistent information is needed, alongside increasing the numbers of health visitors and midwives.']
Specific Asks
['The Bill seeks to make it easier for local authorities to publish Start for Life offers on their websites and other platforms, ensuring families can access relevant support services during the critical 1,001 days from conception to age two. The lead MP also requests that funding for family hubs continue beyond 2025 and be extended across all local authorities in England.']
Auditory Verbal Therapy
12 December 2023
Responding: Maria Caulfield
Main Concerns
['There are about 50,000 deaf children in the UK, with over 7,000 under the age of five. These children face lower academic achievement, employment prospects, and poor mental health, bullying, and social exclusion without access to early, effective support like auditory verbal therapy (AVT). Less than 10% of deaf children who could benefit from AVT can currently access it, with only 30 therapists in the UK.']
Specific Asks
['To increase access to specialist support, we need to train more specialist practitioners. For an investment of £2 million a year over the next decade, we can transform the landscape of auditory verbal provision and deliver significant economic benefits.']
World Ocean Day — [Mrs Pauline Latham in the Chair]
08 June 2023
Responding: Trudy Harrison
Main Concerns
['Sally-Ann Hart is concerned about the over-exploitation and pollution of the ocean, which has led to a decline in its health. She highlights issues such as illegal fishing, chemical, plastic, and nutrient pollution, and coastal overdevelopment. The MP also expresses worry about carbon emissions causing ocean warming, acidification, and oxygen loss, impacting biodiversity and livelihoods dependent on marine resources.']
Specific Asks
['Hart asks the Government to outline measures taken by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to restore and protect blue carbon habitats. She requests details on funding facilitation for nature-based solutions and support for private sector involvement in ocean protection initiatives.']
Climate Change and Biodiversity
08 February 2023
Responding: Daniel Zeichner
Main Concerns
['The UK faces significant risks from climate change, including heatwaves, droughts, high precipitation, flooding, and the collapse of supply chains. The Climate Change Committee has identified eight priority risk areas that require urgent action: viability and diversity of nature, soil health, release of sequestered carbon, crops, livestock and forestry, power system failure, human health and productivity, and risks from climate change impacts overseas. Nature-based solutions are crucial in addressing these challenges but there is a £5.6 billion funding gap for environmental gains.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to consider the key recommendation of the RSPB-WWF report that nature-based solutions must be integrated into the upcoming National Adaptation Programme (NAP3) and given the opportunity to adapt to climate change while providing carbon and biodiversity benefits. Increased funding is necessary, but it does not have to solely rely on government sources.']
Coastal Communities
08 September 2022
Responding: Lia Nici
Main Concerns
["Coastal communities are integral to the UK's environmental, social, and economic well-being but face significant challenges including high levels of deprivation, poor-quality housing, low employment growth, and higher mortality rates. The coastal communities fund has been replaced with the UK shared prosperity fund, but many local authorities have received minimal funding compared to inland areas; for example, Rother District Council and Hastings Borough Council each received £1 million while other councils like Chorley in Lancashire received over £4 million and Cannock Chase received over £3 million. The challenges also include poor transport connectivity, low educational standards, skill shortages, high population transience, and disproportionately high levels of people claiming sickness and disability benefits."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should recognise the unique challenges faced by coastal communities and respond with meaningful policy action. I urge the creation of a dedicated Minister for Coastal Communities who can work across government departments to develop a national strategy for coastal areas and reinstate a cross-departmental working group for the coast.']
Local Enterprise Partnerships
16 March 2022
Responding: Neil O'Brien
Main Concerns
['The sector is in limbo awaiting clarity on its future role, with continued uncertainty leading to the departure of talented individuals. LEPs have welcomed the conclusions of the levelling-up White Paper but need confirmation of their funding. Six weeks after the publication of the White Paper, no confirmation has been given about how or whether LEPs will be funded. The value of LEPs is based on an array of evidence about their impact across the country, including significant success in skills development and support for businesses during the pandemic.']
Specific Asks
['The Government must clearly define and establish the future functions of LEPs and make them clear to all parties. It is vital that the local independent business voice of LEPs is safeguarded for it to be engaged in local economic planning and decision making, and that their unique collaboration and local business voice are recognised.']
G20 and COP29 Summits
21 November 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Hospice Funding
22 April 2024
General Debate
Led by this MP
Calls on integrated care boards to urgently address the funding for hospice-provided palliative care. Emphasises the importance of end-of-life care as a legal right, highlights financial pressures fac...
Pet Animals (Protection and Welfare) Bill - Second Reading of the entire Bill
15 March 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
This Bill aims to ban the import of puppies and kittens under six months, prohibit heavily pregnant animals from being imported, prevent mutilated dogs and cats from entering the country, and address ...
Ways and Means
07 March 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Chancellor's Budget proposal is criticised for rising taxes, falling living standards, stalled growth, unfunded tax cuts, and overall economic mismanagement. Rachel Reeves highlights the increased...
Police Grant Report
07 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The funding settlement for policing is being increased by £843 million compared to last year, bringing the total funding envelope to £18.4 billion. This includes an extra £922 million available to pol...
Local Government Finance
07 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Begs to move the Local Government Finance Report (England) 2024–25.
Knife and Sword Ban
06 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
11 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Tackling Spiking
18 December 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Economic Growth
14 November 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
8
PMQs Asked
78
Ministerial Questions Asked
83
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
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
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+482% above average
This MP:
78
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1608% above average
This MP:
83
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 Sally-Ann Hart's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.