Sara Britcliffe
MP for Hyndburn
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I have just got back from the inaugural women's health summit. During the summer, it was announced that specialist maternal mental health services will be available to women in every part of England by March. That is particularly pertinent for me, after one of my constituents, Jessica Cronshaw, passed away while pregnant with her baby Elsie after suffering severe pregnancy sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum. I thank the Government for following through with this important reform and pushing to keep going with the spirit of this reform so that our NHS is fit for women in the future.
Context
The Government announced that specialist maternal mental health services will be available to women in every part of England by March.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter. I know that the whole House will want to convey its sympathies to Jessica's family. We are committed to our women's health strategy, and I am grateful for her support and advice so that we can ensure it delivers the care that we want it to across the country.
Assessment
Did not provide specific details about implementation or timeline of services
Session: PMQs
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I thank the Prime Minister and the Chancellor for visiting Hyndburn and Haslingden last week to hear about the transformative difference that the levelling-up funding will make. This is a historic investment, with over £40 million secured. Does he agree that we are delivering on exactly what was promised in 2019 to the areas that were most forgotten, such as Hyndburn and Haslingden? Will he visit once works are completed to see the difference himself?
Context
The MP highlights the transformational impact of levelling-up funds in her constituency, Hyndburn and Haslingden.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is a fantastic champion for her local community, and the results showed when the Chancellor and I were lucky enough to visit her last week. As she and many of the people we spoke to pointed out, this was an area that had been forgotten and neglected for decades, but it is this Government who are putting in the investment, spreading opportunity, making jobs and making sure that people can feel enormously proud of the place they call home.
Assessment
The specific ask about visiting once works are completed was not directly addressed.
Session: PMQs
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Mr Speaker, I am sure that this weekend we will both be celebrating what we consider to be one of the best days of the year: Lancashire Day. May I thank you personally for hosting the event in Parliament? Will the Prime Minister, although he represents a Yorkshire constituency, join me in welcoming our Lancastrian local leaders and businesses to Parliament today, and will he join us in supporting our proud history and bright future by levelling up what we consider to be the best county?
Context
Lancashire Day is celebrated to honour Lancashire's contributions and heritage. The event was hosted in Parliament, and Sara Britcliffe seeks recognition from the Prime Minister despite his Yorkshire constituency.
Rishi Sunak (Prime Minister)
I offer my best wishes to my hon. Friend, and indeed to you, Mr Speaker, for Lancashire Day. I can put local rivalry aside on this occasion to join my hon. Friend in thanking Lancastrians for their contribution to our country, and I wish her the very best for today's event.
Session: PMQs
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May I first say how great it was to welcome my right hon. Friend to Accrington last week? I am sure that he will join me in thanking the staff and pupils at Accrington Academy for making our visit such a welcoming one. As you will know, Mr Speaker, my constituency was at the heart of the first industrial revolution, and we are ready to lead in the new green industrial revolution and level up once and for all. On that note, will my right hon. Friend commit to supporting my campaign to rejuvenate our high streets and town centres across Hyndburn and Haslingden?
Context
The constituency of Accrington was at the heart of the first industrial revolution and is ready for a new green industrial revolution.
Boris Johnson
I congratulate my hon. Friend on her campaign. It was great to be in Accrington and I hope that she will be hearing even more shortly from my right hon. Friend the Chancellor about what we can do to support the towns fund and other measures to help Accrington and places across the whole country.
Session: PMQs
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Can the Prime Minister assure me that Hyndburn and Haslingden will continue to be supported by potential investment in our town centres, business and transport links?
Context
SELRAP campaigns for reopening the Skipton to Colne railway line, with plans moving forward. Potential freight terminal is also being considered.
Boris Johnson
Hyndburn and Haslingden will continue to receive funding for their town centres, including 118 km of safe new green cycleways.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Secretary of State look favourably upon bids such as Church & Oswaldtwistle and Rishton to improve station accessibility?
Context
The MP is interested in accessibility improvements for local train stations under the Access for All programme.
Mark Harper
We will make it clear in guidance that local authorities should involve their Members of Parliament in discussing priorities. A number of bids were made and are currently being scrutinised under the Access for All programme, with an announcement on funded projects expected soon.
Session: Transport Connectivity North-west
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Will the Minister agree to visit to see how the centre is providing financial and research and development support to accelerate the commercialisation of low-carbon technologies?
Context
The Government's getting building fund initiated the Lancashire Centre for Alternative Technologies in Clayton-le-Moors. The Minister is invited to see how it supports low-carbon technology commercialisation.
Andrew Bowie
I would, of course, be delighted to visit my hon. Friend in her constituency at any time.
Session: Topical Questions
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I refer Members to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests. Will the Minister please update us on the independent regulator, and can he quite literally get the ball rolling to get this Bill in front of the House?
Context
MP Sara Britcliffe requests an update on the independent regulator and asks for action to get a Bill in front of the House.
Stuart Andrew
My hon. Friend has been a doughty campaigner when it comes to the issue of football regulation, and it was good for me—
Session: Topical Questions
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To the Government's credit, they are currently putting money into addiction services. However, at the same time, there is no national strategy for children of alcohol-dependent parents. That has not always been the case. Between 2017 and 2021, there were local and national helpline services funded through a national strategy. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss this matter, as the children in these awful situations are some of the most vulnerable in society?
Context
The absence of a national strategy to address the needs of children whose parents are dependent on alcohol has been highlighted, with previous initiatives in place between 2017 and 2021.
Victoria Atkins
Through the drugs strategy, we have committed an extra £532 million over three years for alcohol and drug treatment services. We also invested £15.7 million in Lancashire. I will be happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss this matter further.
Session: Alcohol-dependent Parents Support for Children
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What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to support the children of alcohol-dependent parents?
Context
The question arises from the need to support children affected by parental alcohol dependency, an issue that impacts their wellbeing and development.
Victoria Atkins
We are investing £27 million in specialist alcohol care teams and have published UK-wide clinical guidelines on harmful drinking. We provide around £300 million in funding through family hubs and Start for Life programme, encouraging wrap-around support for families including alcohol support services.
Session: Alcohol-dependent Parents Support for Children
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In Hyndburn and Haslingden, we are hoping to have a very happy new year, as we hope to hear the announcement that both Rishton Station and Church and Oswaldtwistle Station have been successful in the Government's Access for All scheme. Can any indication be given of when we might hear the announcement, and will the Government look favourably on them?
Context
Rishton Station and Church and Oswaldtwistle Station in Hyndburn and Haslingden are hoping to receive funding through the Government's Access for All scheme.
Huw Merriman
It is worth noting that 75% of all rail journeys now take place from step-free stations, with 220 stations made step-free under Access for All. We have 300 in the list for the next batch, and my hon. Friend will be pleased to know that hers are in that long list.
Session: Topical Questions
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Melton CLP has of the biggest sites in Hyndburn and Haslingden. The ROC is due to end in 2027, and certainty is needed on whether the scheme will be extended or another scheme will take its place. Will the Minister give us some assurances as to what comes next?
Context
The Renewables Obligation Certificate (ROC) is due to end in 2027, and there is uncertainty about what will replace it.
Graham Stuart
Mindful of how loquacious I am, I simply say to my hon. Friend that I will meet her to discuss the matter.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister consider progressing this railway line to the next phase, including drawing up a full business case? Will he meet Members to discuss it further?
Context
The reopening of an 11-mile missing track connecting Lancashire and Yorkshire would be fundamental for linking these areas back up.
Huw Merriman
I would be pleased to meet my hon. Friend and all right hon. Friends and colleagues. The Department has been working with Transport for the North, Lancashire County Council, and campaign groups on strengthening the case for reopening that line.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituents in Hyndburn and Haslingden and I thank the Foreign Secretary for all the work he is doing to ensure that aid is getting to Gaza. We know that the UN has stated it needs at least 100 trucks a day to take the aid to those who desperately need it. Can my right hon. Friend set out what conversations he is having with his Israeli and Egyptian counterparts to make sure that this aid gets where it needs to be?
Context
The UN has stated that at least 100 trucks of aid are needed daily in Gaza, but the current number is inadequate.
Andrew Mitchell (Foreign Secretary)
Foreign Office officials, the Foreign Secretary and others are talking to all the relevant authorities in Egypt and Israel. The key thing is to increase the number of lorries that are getting through Rafah. My hon. Friend will understand that the current number is wholly inadequate. I talk to Martin Griffiths virtually every day about the operations that the UN is conducting to try to beef up that number.
Session: Israel, Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories Humanitarian Access and Human Rights
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Will my right hon. Friend confirm whether there will be further waves of the T-level capital fund?
Context
The MP inquired about further capital investment for the T-level programme at Accrington and Rossendale College.
Gillian Keegan
Nelson & Colne College group, which includes Accrington and Rossendale College in my hon. Friend's constituency, has benefited from capital investment of more than £6 million since 2010, including funding to improve the condition of its estate and support the delivery of T-levels.
Session: Skills and Apprenticeships Funding
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One of my constituents, Bethany Whitehead, suffers from functional neurological disorder (FND), which often presents with debilitating symptoms. Bethany has often been left waiting two to three years before seeing a consultant. Will the Minister meet me to discuss this further?
Context
One of the questioner's constituents, Bethany Whitehead, suffers from FND and has often been left waiting two to three years before seeing a consultant. This reflects broader access issues for FND patients.
Helen Whately
My hon. Friend makes a really important point. I can say to her here and now that functional neurological disorder was previously regarded through a diagnosis of exclusion. It now has a rule-in diagnosis with available treatments, which is a major step forward in destigmatising the disorder. I am very happy to meet her to discuss this further.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps his Department is taking to help deliver major rail infrastructure improvements in the north of England. The NTAC has failed to meet, there are no more trains on the Hope Valley line, and we are not closer to high-speed rail services between Sheffield and Leeds. Does the Minister think that the appropriate governance arrangements are in place?
Context
The Department set up the Northern Transport Acceleration Council to accelerate rail upgrades but has not met since May 2022, and no progress on high-speed rail services between Sheffield and Leeds.
Huw Merriman
We remain committed to delivering the integrated rail plan, which includes HS2 and the Northern Powerhouse Rail core network. We are also delivering on the multibillion-pound TransPennine route upgrade between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York.
Session: Rail Infrastructure North of England
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Resident of Hyndburn and Haslingden face rent caps but also increases in service charges. Can the government set out what support is available for those who cannot afford these combined rises?
Context
Residents in Hyndburn and Haslingden are facing rent caps below inflation but still experiencing up to 11% increases in service charges, straining their finances.
Felicity Buchan
The Treasury has provided a £37 billion package at the autumn statement followed by an additional £26 billion. Service charges should be reasonable, reflecting costs and providing access to the ombudsman.
Session: Service Charge Increases Leaseholders and Social Housing Tenants
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I recently met primary and secondary school headteachers. The consensus among them was that there were still significant concerns regarding budgets, and how they fund pay awards and energy costs. The autumn statement provided billions of extra support and the energy bills discount scheme. Has the Secretary of State made an assessment of how that will help their budgets going forward and whether it will relieve financial pressures?
Context
Headteachers expressed concerns about school budgets managing pay awards and energy costs.
Nick Gibb
The new energy bills discount scheme will mean that any schools facing energy costs above the price threshold will receive a discount on their bills until 31 March 2024. In addition, the extra funding announced at the autumn statement, £2 billion, will help schools manage higher costs, including higher energy bills. The core schools budget will total £58.8 billion by 2024-25, the highest ever level in real terms per pupil.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the work this Government are doing to increase police resources and tackle antisocial behaviour. However, it is not just individuals who are impacted; businesses also face associated costs and fear for their staff. Will my right hon. and learned Friend work with me to see how we can address this issue for businesses on our high streets?
Context
The issue is prompted by the negative effects of antisocial behaviour on businesses in constituencies like Hyndburn and Haslingden, which experience high costs and security concerns.
Suella Braverman
I share my hon. Friend's deep concern about antisocial behaviour, and I was pleased to discuss the issue with her very recently. She will obviously be aware of the 435 new police officers on the ground in Lancashire, thanks to this Government. She will also be aware of the 18% fall in neighbourhood crime in Lancashire since 2019, thanks to this Government, and the £1 million safer streets funding in Lancashire, thanks to this Government.
Session: Police Resources
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In Hyndburn and Haslingden, we received the fantastic news just before Christmas that the Hyndburn Academy and Haslingden High School will be included in the next round of the school rebuilding programme. I eagerly await the next round so that schools in my patch, such as The Hollins, can apply. Can my right hon. Friend confirm whether school rebuilding programme funding can be used, in conjunction with other investment, for initiatives that benefit not only the school but the wider community?
Context
Hyndburn Academy and Haslingden High School were included in the next round of the school rebuilding programme, raising questions about wider community benefits.
Gillian Keegan
I thank my hon. Friend for her excellent question. We encourage schools to play a positive role in their community, and many choose to provide access to sports and other facilities. The school rebuilding programme directly commissions projects rather than providing funding to schools, so, where feasible, we include additional facilities beyond the scope of a project, if it is funded by the local trust or the local authority.
Session: School Buildings
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What steps her Department is taking to improve school buildings. In December, the Minister announced a further 239 schools that will benefit from large-scale rebuilding and refurbishment projects as part of our school rebuilding programme, which will transform 500 schools across the country. The MP welcomed this progress but sought more information on the specifics.
Context
The MP inquired about the steps being taken to improve school buildings across the country.
Gillian Keegan
In December, I announced a further 239 schools that will benefit from large-scale rebuilding and refurbishment projects as part of our school rebuilding programme, which will transform 500 schools across the country. We have allocated more than £13 billion to improving school buildings since 2015, including £1.8 billion this year.
Session: School Buildings
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In Hyndburn and Haslingden, we welcome the shared prosperity funding we have received, which will support places such as Haslingden market. But after significant stakeholder engagement, we now eagerly await the outcome of our levelling-up fund bid. Can the Minister confirm that the results will be known before the end of the month?
Context
Received shared prosperity funding but awaiting outcome of levelling-up fund bid.
Dehenna Davison
I can confirm that we will announce the full outcome of the levelling-up fund by the end of January.
Session: Interest Rates and Inflation Inequality and Levelling Up
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Does he agree that high inflation necessitates additional support for households on low and middle incomes, including constituents in Hyndburn and Haslingden?
Context
The MP acknowledges the government's steps to help those on benefits but asks about support for those not on benefits who are still struggling.
Mel Stride
My hon. Friend makes an important point. She is perhaps referring to those who are not necessarily on benefits but are still struggling. I would point to the £400 payment, which has gone out through fuel bills; the increase in the personal allowance over the years, taking many of the lowest paid out of tax; the recent increase in the national living wage to historically high levels; and the energy price guarantee.
Session: Cost of Living People on Low Incomes
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What steps his Department is taking to support people on low incomes with the cost of living. The MP noted that many constituents are struggling due to high costs and inflation, which she attributes to Putin's war in Ukraine.
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of high inflation and cost-of-living increases on people with limited incomes.
Mel Stride
In 2022-23, the Government provided £37 billion in cost of living support. We also uprated benefits, pensions and the benefit cap.
Session: Cost of Living People on Low Incomes
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The battle of the Somme and the wider theatre of world war one were devastating for northern communities. I am sure that the Secretary of State will be aware of the Accrington Pals, the 700-plus strong battalion that was effectively wiped out on the first day in the Somme. I grew up at a time when living veterans still provided a direct link. As the younger generation today will not have that direct link, what can the Secretary of State do to ensure that the sacrifice and legacy of those brave men is remembered not just on Armistice Day, but more generally?
Context
The question focuses on the significant impact and sacrifice made by the Accrington Pals battalion during WWI, specifically in the Battle of the Somme.
Ben Wallace
Never forget the Chorley Pals, Mr Speaker. The Accrington Pals played a hugely significant role on the frontline as part of the 94th Infantry Brigade. In many areas, they bore the brunt of the casualties that the British Army suffered. Of the 700-plus men who went over the top that morning, 585 became casualties, with 230 killed in the first 30 minutes. It is only right that that immense sacrifice continues to be remembered in communities across the United Kingdom. All of us have a role in doing that, whether that is through supporting our British Legion, buying a poppy or attending a parade, but it is also about recognising that we remember these people best by investing in today's armed forces.
Session: Armistice Day
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What plans his Department has to commemorate Armistice Day?
Context
No specific incident or statistic mentioned, but the question is about plans to commemorate Armistice Day.
Ben Wallace
I am pleased to confirm that commemorations across the UK will take place as normal to mark remembrance. I will attend the ceremony at the Cenotaph on Whitehall on Remembrance Sunday, and Ministers will attend services at war memorials across the United Kingdom and in the Falklands.
Session: Armistice Day
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Does the Secretary of State agree that liberalising international trade as a function of our new post-Brexit freedoms is key to levelling up our country, providing more opportunities for businesses like those in Hyndburn and Haslingden?
Context
The MP from Hyndburn and Haslingden highlights the importance of exports for local businesses and asks about liberalising international trade to support economic growth in the region.
Kemi Badenoch
I wholeheartedly agree that opening up new markets through FTAs and addressing trade barriers will secure economic growth. We have 72 export champions in the north-west, sharing their journeys as role models for new exporters, and have hosted over 120 events during International Trade Week.
Session: UK Exports
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What steps her Department is taking to increase UK exports. I am concerned about the growth in exports and how my department can support local businesses to expand their reach internationally.
Context
UK exports have grown significantly, but there are concerns about supporting businesses to take advantage of new opportunities.
Kemi Badenoch
UK exports were £728 billion in the 12 months to August 2022, an increase of £49 billion adjusted for inflation. We create new opportunities through free trade agreements covering £814 billion-worth of bilateral trade in 2021 and support businesses with our export academy which has helped over 11,500 firms since October 2021.
Session: UK Exports
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As you know, Mr Speaker, the National Cyber Force is to be located in Lancashire, which is a great boost for local high-skilled jobs. Does my right hon. Friend agree that if we are to level up the country, it is important that young people can gain the skills and qualifications that they need locally to feed into those high-skilled jobs?
Context
The National Cyber Force is being relocated in Lancashire, creating numerous high-skilled jobs.
Oliver Dowden
I know what a strong champion my hon. Friend is for the National Cyber Force in Samlesbury. Thanks to the efforts of her and others, 6,000 jobs were created just last year and more than 52,000 people are now employed in cyber-security. Crucially, more than half of them are outside London and the south-east.
Session: Topical Questions
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Community clubs such as Accrington Stanley are at the heart of constituencies such as mine in Hyndburn and Haslingden. The fan-led review is crucial in protecting community clubs and providing sustainability and fairness in the game. Can the Minister please update me on the Government's position on the fan-led review?
Context
The fan-led review is crucial for the protection of community clubs and providing sustainability in the game.
Stuart Andrew
I understand the importance of and the attachment that many fans have for the fan-led review and recognise that this is a very important sport nationally. Obviously, as a new Minister, I want to take the time to look at it in detail, which is what I am doing at the moment.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is encouraging that since the CPS published its strategy on rape and serious sexual offences in 2020, the number of rape prosecutions has risen dramatically, with a 62.9% increase recorded. I know, however, that several of my constituents in Hyndburn and Haslingden are keen to see the specialist trauma training for all court staff, police and prosecutors that is being trialled. With such great interest in that scheme, will the Minister please update me on its findings?
Context
Since the CPS published its strategy on rape and serious sexual offences in 2020, there has been a significant increase in rape prosecutions. The questioner seeks updates on the specialist trauma training trial.
Michael Tomlinson
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for highlighting the importance of this issue, and more broadly for her support for victims not only in her area, but across the north-west and the country. She should look out for two further specific measures: first, Operation Soteria and its continued roll-out across the country; and secondly the victims Bill. I look forward to working with my hon. Friend on both.
Session: Crown Prosecution Service Performance in North-west England
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What recent assessment has been made of the performance of the Crown Prosecution Service in the north-west?
Context
The question arises from the need to evaluate recent performance metrics of the CPS in the region.
Michael Tomlinson
My hon. Friend will be pleased to hear that the Crown Prosecution Service north-west has consistently achieved a conviction rate that is higher than the national average. The area conviction rate was 84.4%, which is two percentage points higher than the national rate.
Session: Crown Prosecution Service Performance in North-west England
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Can you confirm that these bids will be looked on favourably? To modernise our railway stations, we need to make sure that everybody can use them.
Context
The MP opened the new disabled access ramp at Accrington station and inquired about further bids for Church, Oswaldtwistle, and Rushden stations.
Kevin Foster
The Department recently received 309 nominations for the next round of Access for All, including Rushden and Oswaldtwistle, and I look to announce the successful stations next year.
Session: Modernising the Railways
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What recent assessment has been made of the potential merits of modernising the railways given the lasting impact of COVDI-19 on passenger numbers and revenue, as well as the impact of strikes?
Context
The MP notes the need for railway reform following the consequences of COVID-19 and strikes.
Kevin Foster
The Government will ensure we have a modern railway, fit for the 21st century, that meets customers' needs, supports growth and decarbonisation, harnesses the best of the private sector and connects our communities.
Session: Modernising the Railways
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The previous Chancellor confirmed an equivalent scheme exists for off-grid heating oil users. Could you provide an update for residents in Hyndburn and Haslingden?
Context
Residents of Harwood Bar caravan park and similar areas require updates on the £400 energy support scheme equivalent.
Kwasi Kwarteng
A pot of money is reserved to help off-grid users, but specific details about an equivalent scheme are not confirmed beyond existing announcements.
Session: Topical Questions
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As recently as February in my Hyndburn constituency, Lancashire police had to issue dispersal orders in Accrington town centre because of antisocial behaviour. Will my right hon. Friend tell me how we can prevent young people in particular from reoffending or falling into bad habits, particularly when they have been through the youth justice system?
Context
Concerns about antisocial behaviour and the need for positive activities to prevent youth reoffending.
Dominic Raab
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. I was up in Blackpool last week to announce a £300 million fund that local authorities can access to prevent youth offending. It is called the turnaround project and is targeted at around 20,000 children. The idea is to get them into sports, whether that is boxing or martial arts, or indeed into drama or other positive outlets. By doing that, we can then wraparound the pastoral care and work with the law enforcement agencies. That will not just give those children the opportunity to take a springboard into school, training and, ultimately, work, but keep our streets safer for communities.
Session: Reducing Reoffending
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Will the Secretary of State provide an update on the Skipton to Colne railway line?
Context
The MP is interested in updates on a specific railway project, the Rawtenstall to Manchester line, which would significantly benefit her constituents in Haslingden. She also queries the status of another project involving Skipton and Colne.
Grant Shapps
I certainly can. Regarding the Skipton-East Lancashire Rail Action Partnership—or SELRAP—and the rail link between Skipton and Colne, I appreciate my hon. Friend's unstinting support for the scheme and will set out our position on the projects in the rail enhancement portfolio very soon.
Session: Closed Rail Lines Restoration
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Can he confirm that the second round will be confirmed in the White Paper, and will he visit my home of Hyndburn and Haslingden to see at first hand how the money would be spent?
Context
The questioner has campaigned for investment in Hyndburn and Haslingden's town centres.
Michael Gove
Absolutely, and we will be saying more about how we can ensure that the remaining tranches of the levelling-up fund are allocated fairly. Accrington and Oswaldtwistle speak to me even now as communities that I would love to visit, with my hon. Friend as my guide.
Session: Topical Questions
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Supporting young people to fulfil their potential is key to levelling up opportunity. Does my hon. Friend agree that the UK-wide kickstart scheme, which has made over 10,000 Scottish placements available, is another example of the UK Government delivering for Scotland?
Context
The UK-wide kickstart scheme's impact in Scotland is being questioned.
Iain Stewart
I absolutely agree. If I can loop my answer back to earlier questions about labour market issues, I hope that the schemes put forward by the Government will help give the next generation skills to fill domestic vacancies.
Session: Government’s Plan for Jobs
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What assessment has the Government made of the effectiveness of its Plan for Jobs in supporting people in work in Scotland?
Context
The effectiveness of government support measures in Scotland is under scrutiny.
Iain Stewart
Our UK-wide total Department for Work and Pensions spend on labour market support will increase to more than £6 billion, which will give everyone a chance to progress, work and develop skills needed for the modern workforce. In Scotland, we have made available more than 15,000 jobs, with approximately 8,000 already started.
Session: Government’s Plan for Jobs
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Does my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State welcome the new agreement signed recently with Greece? Can she give examples of how the UK and Greece are working in greater collaboration?
Context
A new strategic bilateral framework was signed between UK and Greece.
Wendy Morton
I was delighted that yesterday the Foreign Secretary met the Greek Foreign Minister, Minister Dendias, and signed a new strategic bilateral framework that will build on the co-operation between our countries. It will open up new opportunities for trade and investment in both countries, allowing us to build on the £4.5 billion-worth of annual trade that we already have. It will also enable better co-operation among our businesses, investors and industry, and will promote even stronger security and defence co-operation, both as NATO allies and in enhancing Europe's resilience in the face of security threats.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister agree to meet me in Hyndburn to discuss plans for Accrington Victoria Hospital, making sure we are utilising our fantastic and historic building to its full potential?
Context
There are plans for Accrington Victoria Hospital in Hyndburn.
Edward Argar
The short answer is that it looks as though I may be going on tour in the coming months, and I am delighted to accept my hon. Friend's kind invitation.
Session: New Hospitals
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Although my constituency was not a beneficiary of the towns deal, we are now in a position to bid for the levelling-up fund. Will the Secretary of State confirm that an announcement will be made soon on the second round so that we can put forward our case?
Context
A bid for the levelling-up fund is being considered to secure well-deserved investment in Hyndburn and Haslingden.
Robert Jenrick
Proposals for the second round will be brought forward shortly and set out later in the year by either myself or my right hon. Friend the Chancellor.
Session: Topical Questions
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Improving our railways for better connectivity across east Lancashire is crucial for spreading opportunity. However, we still face accessibility challenges at stations such as Oswaldtwittle. Will the Minister outline support plans to enhance accessibility in areas like mine?
Context
Improving railway stations and connectivity is key to levelling up opportunities, but some stations like Oswaldtwistle have accessibility issues.
Robert Courts (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport)
All Access for All funding has been allocated, including nearby Accrington station with works due by 2024. Further support will be considered when more funding is available.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum Awareness
19 July 2023
Responding: Maria Caulfield
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a condition that can be life-threatening and debilitating for pregnant women. She highlights the case of Jessica Cronshaw, who passed away at 28 weeks due to HG complications. The MP emphasizes the lack of awareness, stigma, inadequate training for healthcare professionals, insufficient mental health support, nutritional advice, and face-to-face medical appointments as contributing factors to the severity of this condition.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the government to ensure compulsory training on HG for midwives, improve access to licensed drugs like Xonvea and Ondansetron, encourage more evidence-based research into treatments including GDF15-based drugs, and address societal stigma around women suffering from HG. She also calls for better support in terms of perinatal mental health services and nutritional advice.']
Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Bill
26 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill aims to recognise the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the International Committee of the Red Cross as international organisations in the UK, granting them legal capacities similar ...
The British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Bill
26 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves Third Reading of the British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Bill, emphasising its historical significance and impact on over 260,000 citizens across the UK. The bill aims to allow individuals born...
The Bereaved Parental Leave and Pay Bill - Third reading of the bill
26 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill seeks to introduce a right for bereaved partners from the first day of their employment, ensuring employed parents have time and support when their partner dies during childbirth. The Bill ai...
Football (Amendment) Bill - Clause 1
23 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Smoking Reduction and Tobacco Control Bill - Clause 1
16 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the Bill, stating its purpose is to prevent future generations from starting smoking. Argues that the only product that kills two thirds of its long-term users if consumed as intended is tobacco...
Israel and Gaza
19 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Prisons and Probation: Foreign National Offenders
12 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
18 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focuses on the harmful effects of the Loan Charge imposed by HM Revenue and Customs, including suicides due to financial pressure, failures in supervision by HMRC, and perceived unfairness ...
Citizens’ Rights
14 December 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Occupied Palestinian Territories: Humanitarian Situation
08 November 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
5
PMQs Asked
57
Ministerial Questions Asked
101
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
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
+37% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+325% above average
This MP:
57
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1978% above average
This MP:
101
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 Sara Britcliffe's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.