Sheryll Murray
MP for South East Cornwall
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I declare that my daughter is a serving officer in the armed forces. In recent weeks, my right hon. Friend has announced plans to control welfare and get people back to work and to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, and has passed legislation to get flights off to Rwanda. Does he agree with me that these are all issues that real people such as my constituents in South East Cornwall care about, and that the Leader of the Opposition should do the right thing and back them?
Context
The MP is questioning whether the Leader of the Opposition supports the Government's plans to control welfare, increase defence spending and deport migrants.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is a fantastic champion for her local area, and can I also thank her daughter for her service in the armed forces? My hon. Friend is right: I am not surprised that Labour Members do not back our plans to stop the boats and I am not surprised they do not back our plans to get people into work and reform welfare, but I do think that they should do the right thing when it comes to the security of our nation, and that is to back our plans to increase defence spending and give our brave armed forces personnel the resources they need to keep us safe.
Assessment
Did not directly address whether the Leader of the Opposition supports government policies; focused on Labour's stance against them instead.
Not Surprised That Labour Members Do Not Back Our Plans
Session: PMQs
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On 12 May, we will see the first ever national fishing remembrance day. Will the Deputy Prime Minister remember those who have died bringing food to our tables and ask the Prime Minister to do so?
Context
The speaker chairs the all-party parliamentary group on fisheries and notes a national fishing remembrance day. She plans to lay a wreath at Looe quayside for those who have died bringing food to tables.
Oliver Dowden
I know how important this is to my hon. Friend, and she will remember her late husband Neil on that day. It is important we recognise sacrifices made by fishermen and women, and I know the Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries will be visiting Grimsby.
Assessment
Did not explicitly say he would mark the occasion himself
She Will Remember
I Know The Minister
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister rightly often criticises the Scottish Government for the extra tax they put on residents. In my part of Cornwall, we have an extra tax called the Tamar toll. I have been working on a petition with my constituency neighbour, my right hon. Friend the Member for Plymouth, Moor View (Johnny Mercer). Will the Prime Minister make our part of the country more competitive by losing this extra tax and helping our community to level up?
Context
Discussion about an extra tax called the Tamar toll and its impact on competitiveness.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important local issue. Any application for a toll revision will be considered by the Transport Secretary at the right opportunity when it has been received, but I am told that there are plans in place to create a new locally led focal group of key stakeholders to ensure that there is a real opportunity for them to make their views about crossings heard.
Assessment
Reducing or eliminating the Tamar toll
Session: PMQs
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In 2022, I met Network Rail and others to celebrate an agreement for a footbridge at Lostwithiel station. That bridge is yet to be built. Can my right hon. Friend help?
Context
In 2022, Network Rail agreed to build a footbridge over the railway line in Lostwithiel. The bridge still has no completion date.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend has campaigned long-standing for the footbridge at Lostwithiel station. Network Rail is currently working on a funding solution to proceed with construction in the next financial year.
Assessment
Did not provide a completion date or confirm government assistance
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister back me and my hon. Friend the Member for North Cornwall in supporting an investment zone for the Liskeard and Bodmin area?
Context
The area seeks an investment zone to boost the local economy in east Cornwall.
Elizabeth Truss
We are bringing forward these investment zones which will give opportunities to local people.
Assessment
No commitment to specific investment zone for Liskeard and Bodmin was given, instead a general support for the idea of investment zones was stated
Session: PMQs
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Given past successes like getting Brexit done and building an effective vaccine programme to combat the pandemic, will my right hon. Friend continue delivering on priorities for constituents who voted for him in 2019?
Context
The Prime Minister has achieved significant milestones such as completing Brexit and establishing a robust vaccination programme during his tenure, addressing concerns over the pandemic.
Boris Johnson
I cannot improve upon the brilliant question by my hon. Friend, and I am committed to delivering for South East Cornwall.
Assessment
The PM did not provide concrete commitments beyond affirming his dedication.
Session: PMQs
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Be it farm workers or lorry drivers, my employers are saying that they want more staff. What more can the Prime Minister do to increase the training and mobility of jobseekers to help them into the jobs they need?
Context
The MP inquires about measures to address the shortage of lorry drivers affecting businesses across various sectors.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to point out the problem of lorry driver shortages, which is affecting the whole world, from Europe to North America. What we are doing immediately is working to get out more licences. We are taking advantage of our post-Brexit freedom so that all the young thrusters on the Conservative Benches with a post-1997 driver's licence can now drive a vehicle with a trailer as well—everybody can drive a vehicle with a trailer as well.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address increasing training and mobility of jobseekers directly, focusing instead on licensing changes.
Young Thrusters
Session: PMQs
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Will he speak to Government Departments to get this issue sorted?
Context
The MP is concerned about frequent flooding issues in the town of Looe, South East Cornwall.
Boris Johnson
Through my hon. Friend, I thank again the people of South East Cornwall and everywhere in Cornwall. The Environment Secretary has met Cornwall Council to discuss the matter.
Assessment
specific ask about government intervention
Reassurance Without Specifics
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister join in showing how to prepare and cook a dish with British-caught fish?
Context
The MP invited the Prime Minister to show how easy it is to prepare a dish using British-caught fish.
Boris Johnson
The PM is very happy to take up the suggestion, though he will not be the best chef.
Session: PMQs
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In 2006, Menheniot parish council was told of improvement plans to the dangerous junction on the A38—something I have long campaigned for. However, two months ago, the regional director of the south-west part of Highways England told me that this was not going to happen, blaming the change from the old Highways Agency. Can my right hon. Friend tell me when, if ever, the people of Menheniot will finally see shovels in the ground?
Context
Menheniot parish council was told of plans to improve a dangerous A38 junction in 2006, but two months ago the regional director of Highways England said it would not happen.
Boris Johnson
I am grateful to my hon. Friend, because she gave me advance notice of this question. This is really a case for a project speed, and I hope that Highways England, which is currently undertaking a safety study of the A38 between Bodmin and Saltash, will be able to accelerate its work and get on with the Menheniot junction as fast as possible.
Assessment
Specific timeline or start date was not provided
Session: PMQs
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What more are the Government doing to encourage people to produce their own electricity by means of renewables?
Context
The MP has recently installed solar panels and inquires about further Government support for such installations.
Amanda Solloway
I am delighted to hear that my hon. Friend has had those solar panels fitted. She will be interested to hear that the Government are considering options to facilitate low-cost finance from retail lenders to help households with the up-front costs of installation, and to drive rooftop deployment and energy efficiency measures.
Session: Energy Bills
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What steps are being taken to help reduce energy bills?
Context
None provided, general question about steps to reduce energy bills.
Amanda Solloway
The price cap has fallen by 60% since the start of last year, and the Government are taking a comprehensive approach to bring down future energy bills for consumers. That includes reforming electricity markets to make them more effective, investing across the energy system to make it smarter, and investing in energy efficiency to reduce costs for households.
Session: Energy Bills
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With your permission, Mr Speaker, I would like to put on record my condolences to the family and many friends of my immediate predecessor Colin Breed, who sadly passed away last Thursday. Under the Conservatives, we have near record levels of payrolled employment and I regularly hear from employers that they cannot get the staff needed. Last month's House of Commons Library paper on people claiming unemployment benefits stated that 1,405 people were doing so in my constituency. What more can the Department do to make sure that the unemployed are ready to fit into vacancies as they arise by looking at what local businesses need?
Context
The MP expressed condolences for her predecessor and noted that employers in her constituency are struggling to find staff. She cited a Library paper indicating that 1,405 people were claiming unemployment benefits in her constituency last month.
Jo Churchill
I am sure I speak for the whole House when I join my hon. Friend in sending our condolences to the family and friends of her predecessor. Our employment relation teams are working hard with local employers to match customers to the vacancies in my hon. Friend's businesses. We are building skills, working with sector-based work academy programmes and boot camps, supporting people with a generous increased childcare offer of up to £1,000 for one child and £1,700 for two, and helping people with access to travel.
Session: Jobcentres South East Cornwall
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What steps his Department is taking to increase the support available in jobcentres in South East Cornwall constituency.
Context
The MP is seeking information on the support available at jobcentres within her constituency of South East Cornwall.
Jo Churchill
My hon. Friend will know that her local jobcentres are doing a good job of helping people find and progress in work in her area, driving the recruitment of seasonal workers and creating exciting partnerships with employers such as Morrisons.
Session: Jobcentres South East Cornwall
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My constituents and businesses are concerned about a new tax to cross the Tamar bridge. Will the Minister contribute towards the maintenance of these facilities to prevent further tax increases?
Context
The Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry require additional funding for maintenance, but local businesses face an extra tax to cross the River Tamar. The MP seeks clarification on government support.
Guy Opperman
My hon. Friend raised this with the Prime Minister yesterday. An application is being considered by the Transport Secretary, and I am happy to meet her again.
Session: Topical Questions
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As my right hon. Friend will know, fast diagnosis and treatment are key to getting people back into work. What representations has he made to his departmental and Cabinet colleagues to ensure that that is the case?
Context
The Member raises the importance of fast diagnosis and treatment in getting people back to work, asking what representations have been made on this.
Mel Stride
I thank my hon. Friend and near neighbour for her question—I know that she cares deeply about the issue that she has raised. We work closely with other Departments. For example, we work with the Department of Health and Social Care on NHS talking therapies, of which we have announced 400,000 more over the next five years, as well as on WorkWell, which I have mentioned, and on fit note reform. With the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, we are working closely on housing—I have spoken about the local housing allowance changes coming through—and with the Department for Education we are working on SWAPs, and on training and apprenticeships.
Session: Topical Questions
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I chair the all-party parliamentary group on fisheries. I welcome the limited help that the Department is giving to a few pollack-catching hand-liners, but it will not help the vast majority of fishermen in my constituency who rely on that stock. Will the Minister speak to the Treasury to see whether there is any way to look at compensation for those boats, or at least at decommissioning help?
Context
Fishermen in the constituency rely on pollack stocks, which have been affected by current restrictions.
Mark Spencer
The Government recognise the huge challenge faced by pollack fishers. We are trying to offer funding to help those most affected. I pay tribute to my hon. Friend's campaign and that of my hon. Friends the Members for Truro and Falmouth (Cherilyn Mackrory) and for St Austell and Newquay (Steve Double) in raising the issues. We are helping those fishermen through the fisheries and seafood scheme, as well as with a new scientific study, but the Secretary of State and I are personally looking at what other options may be available to help and support. I know that my hon. Friend the Member for South East Cornwall (Mrs Murray) will continue her pursuit of this issue and support for her constituents.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am the chair of the British overseas territories all-party parliamentary group. I remember watching the ships leave the Tamar in my constituency and head to the Falklands more than 40 years ago. In 1982, our Prime Minister, Maggie Thatcher, said: “Defeat? I do not recognise the meaning of the word.” Do the Government retain that steely resolve?
Context
The question is prompted by the memory of the Falklands War in 1982 and the Prime Minister's declaration at that time, reflecting on whether current government policies retain a similar level of commitment.
David Rutley
I am young enough to remember those days as well, and yes, the UK Government remain steadfast in their resolve to ensure that the Falkland Islanders' right of self-determination is upheld, and we will continue to use all diplomatic means to that end.
Session: Falkland Islands
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Local policing is really important. I have had some good news from my police and crime commissioner, Alison Hernandez, which is that Liskeard is to have a new police inquiry office. Would my right hon. Friend join me in welcoming this, and will he look at what further funding is available for this to happen in other towns?
Context
Liskeard is to have a new police inquiry office, which the questioner welcomes and seeks further funding availability.
Chris Philp
I pay tribute to the excellent police and crime commissioner, Alison Hernandez, for the work that she has done to get the Liskeard centre open, and of course I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for her tireless work campaigning on behalf of Devon and Cornwall Police.
Session: Local Policing
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What progress has been made in talking to other nations about using Russian assets to help Ukraine rebuild its economy?
Context
Discussion on the moral case for using Russian assets to help Ukraine rebuild.
Leo Docherty
Agrees there is a strong moral case for using Russian assets but continues to assess the legal path to achieve this end.
Session: Ukraine
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Recently, we have had high food inflation. While I welcome the fact that the Government have now halved inflation, one of my small schools has told me that it is unable to provide free meals within the money allocated, as it cannot benefit from the same economies of scale as larger schools. Will my right hon. Friend review the funds available for small schools?
Context
Inflation has increased the costs of providing free school meals, and smaller schools face challenges due to lack of economies of scale.
Damian Hinds
I acknowledge my hon. Friend's point. The national funding formula recognises that some schools are necessarily small and do not have the same opportunities to realise economies of scale. Every school receives a lump sum, irrespective of its size—£134,000 for next year—and the Government have reformed the sparsity factor, increasing funding for that from £42 million in 2021-22 to £98 million in 2024-25.
Session: Free School Meals Impact on Children and Parents
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What recent assessment her Department has made of the impact of free school meals on children and their parents?
Context
Free school meals are provided to support disadvantaged families, but there is a concern about their impact and effectiveness.
Damian Hinds
Free school meals support disadvantaged families to the value of £480 a year, ensuring that eligible pupils receive a healthy, nutritious meal. The Government have expanded free school meals more than any other in recent decades; now, more than a third of pupils in England receive them, compared with a sixth in 2010.
Session: Free School Meals Impact on Children and Parents
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During the recent protests, we have seen politicians hounded out of their offices and even needing a police escort at a train station. What more can we do to ensure that people who make decisions are doing it fairly and not from intimidation?
Context
Politicians have been experiencing intimidation, with some needing police escorts.
Thomas Tugendhat
My hon. Friend makes an excellent point. That is exactly why we are having an emergency meeting of the Defending Democracy Taskforce tomorrow to assess these issues. The incidents that we have seen in this country since 7 October—absolutely hateful incidents—have left some people feeling unable to make the arguments that their constituents would expect them to make because they feel vulnerable or they feel threatened. That is why I have been engaging on a protective security review not just for the Government, but for all Members of this House, and for other elected officials around our country.
Session: Topical Questions
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What review, if any, has the Department carried out to ensure that when courts extend bail, they ensure that the police are dealing with their investigations diligently and expeditiously?
Context
Concerns about the independence of the judiciary and the adequacy of court bail reviews.
Mike Freer
My hon. Friend raises an important point. The Department has not and will not conduct a review into how the judiciary undertakes its functions in individual cases, but the judiciary ensures that relevant agencies undertake their functions smoothly.
Session: Topical Questions
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What help can the Department give to aid the mobility of this potential workforce and get them to where they need to be? The focus is on whether there are any specific measures or aids provided by the Department for Work and Pensions to assist ex-prisoners in relocating for job opportunities.
Context
The question addresses how the Department can assist in facilitating the mobility of individuals leaving prison to access employment opportunities.
Damian Hinds
My hon. Friend raises an important point. Going to where the job opportunities are is incredibly important; I would mention to her opportunities such as the Jobcentre Plus railcard through the Department for Work and Pensions. We also need to make sure that, at the point of release, prisoners are put in touch with opportunities near to where they live—where they are going.
Session: Prison Release Employment
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What steps his Department is taking to help offenders find employment following release from prison. There are concerns about the ability of ex-prisoners to secure stable employment post-release, which can impact their reintegration and reduce recidivism rates.
Context
The question concerns the steps being taken to assist individuals leaving prison in finding employment.
Damian Hinds
We continue to develop opportunities for work and training, both during custody and on release. The proportion of prison leavers employed six months after release has increased markedly over the past two years.
Session: Prison Release Employment
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What more can the Department do to make it a reality that encourages young people to pursue careers in fishing and farming at an early educational stage?
Context
A meeting of the all-party parliamentary group on fisheries expressed interest in encouraging young people to pursue careers in fishing. Similar pleas have been made for agriculture.
Robert Halfon
My hon. Friend is a true fisherman's friend, although a lot sweeter tasting than the lozenges, I might add. She will be pleased to know that high-quality apprenticeship standards in agriculture and a level 2 fisher apprenticeship are available. We are promoting apprenticeships, including in agriculture, in our schools.
Session: Topical Questions
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The A38 is the main route to the largest city on the Devon and Cornwall peninsula. This nationally significant route needs substantial work between Carkeel and Trerulefoot in my constituency. What work is the Department doing with the Department for Transport to make that a reality?
Context
The A38 is a major route on the Devon and Cornwall peninsula that requires substantial work between Carkeel and Trerulefoot.
Lee Rowley
My hon. Friend highlights the importance of nationally significant infrastructure programmes all across the country. It is vital that we speed up those projects and make sure that they deliver for local people more quickly. My hon. Friend is a champion for the A38; I know that she will be talking to the Department for Transport, and I am happy to do so as well.
Session: Topical Questions
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Many of the businesses in my constituency pay an additional tax by way of a toll to cross the Tamar, which can run into many thousands of pounds for them. What representations has the Department made to the Department for Transport to have that additional tax, which can make it harder to compete with firms in the rest of the UK, removed?
Context
The question stems from a toll tax paid by businesses in the MP's constituency to cross the Tamar, which can amount to thousands of pounds, potentially impacting their competitiveness with UK firms.
Nusrat Ghani
I thank my hon. Friend for bringing that to my attention. She is such a powerful voice for Cornwall. I am surprised that the Department for Transport has not yet buckled, because I know what a champion she is for her constituency and the region. I will ask my team to engage on this matter with their counterparts at the DFT and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. I know that she will not stop until she gets what she deserves for her constituents, so I am more than happy to give the strength to her elbow.
Session: Cornish Businesses
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What steps her Department is taking to help reduce potential barriers to trade for Cornish businesses?
Context
The question arises from potential trade barriers that hinder the growth of Cornish businesses. The MP seeks to understand specific actions taken by her Department.
Nusrat Ghani
We are targeting a global hit list of barriers whose removal will deliver massive new opportunities for UK businesses throughout the country, including in Cornwall. It is estimated that that will be worth more than £20 billion over five years. The Government are working to open up new markets, including for Cornish farmers. British lamb is now being exported to America for the first time in over 20 years, and British beef is being sent to the Philippines.
Session: Cornish Businesses
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Please can the Secretary of State look again at this?
Context
The MP noted that National Highways has already done research on a safety package for the A38 from Carkeel to Trerulefoot, and it is urgent.
Jesse Norman
The part of the A38 has a high collision rate. National Highways consulted on proposed safety improvements and continues to develop its plans in light of feedback received. We will encourage it to accelerate that work.
Session: Topical Questions
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My local farmers have told me that they need their seasonal worker visas extended to a nine-month period from six. Will the Department work with the Home Office to have that extended?
Context
Local farmers need seasonal worker visas extended to a nine-month period from six.
Mark Spencer (Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries)
I thank my hon. Friend for her question. We are very aware of the challenges those businesses are facing, which is why we have increased the number of visas. We have also rolled over 45,000 visas to next year, with an extra 10,000 if required. We will continue to have conversations with our friends at the Home Office on how we can best support that sector.
Session: Topical Questions
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One up-and-coming internet provider in my constituency understands from Building Digital UK that the next roll-out will create a single cross-Devon and Cornwall procurement contract. That will be available only to companies that already have massive turnover, thereby blocking smaller, more agile companies that may be able to deliver contracts faster. Will the Minister review that urgently, if necessary working with others?
Context
The MP raises concerns that a single cross-Devon and Cornwall procurement contract will block smaller companies from participating in the next roll-out.
Kemi Badenoch (Secretary of State for Business and Trade)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that issue, because it gives me an opportunity to point out that that is also an issue in my constituency, and something I am concerned about. Unfortunately, it is a matter for the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, because BDUK is an Executive agency of hers, but if she requires any support from me as Business Secretary, I would be happy to provide it. BDUK is doing a good job in looking at this issue in the round, but we would be happy to help and do whatever we can to support businesses in all our constituencies.
Session: Topical Questions
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What efforts is the Department making to ensure that we make the most of our home-grown mineral security? This includes backing Cornish lithium and geothermal engineering through the Getting Building fund and automotive transformation fund, which are collaborating to build a zero-carbon lithium extraction plant in Cornwall. I very much look forward to visiting it.
Context
The MP inquires about efforts by the Department to leverage Cornwall's mining heritage for home-grown mineral security.
Nusrat Ghani
The Department is backing Cornish lithium and geothermal engineering through the Getting Building fund and automotive transformation fund, collaborating to build a zero-carbon lithium extraction plant in Cornwall.
Session: Critical Minerals
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What steps her Department is taking to help protect critical minerals supply chains. We are moving towards a world powered by critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt and graphite for electric cars and silicon and tin for electronics. What measures are being taken?
Context
The MP inquires about measures to ensure the security and growth of UK capabilities in critical mineral supply chains.
Nusrat Ghani
We published our “Critical Minerals Refresh,” which will accelerate UK capabilities, collaborate with international partners, and enhance international markets.
Session: Critical Minerals
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Cornwall is a fantastic setting for TV programmes such as the fantastic “Delicious” with Dawn French, filmed at Pentillie castle, and the new “Beyond Paradise”, filmed in Looe, or big movies such as “Alice in Wonderland”, filmed at Antony House. Those are just three productions that go beside the likes of “Poldark”, “Doc Martin” and even James Bond. What more can be done to promote Cornwall as a filming location?
Context
The MP inquired about measures to promote Cornwall as an attractive film and TV production site.
Lucy Frazer
I agree that Cornwall is a fabulous backdrop for any film, and the UK global screen fund has supported the launch of “Enys Men”, which was also filmed in Cornwall. I was pleased to see Screen Cornwall's British Film Institute-funded report on how to establish Cornwall as a creative cluster of significance.
Session: Film and Television Production Industry
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What steps her Department is taking to support the film industry?
Context
The MP asked about steps being taken by the Department to support the film industry.
Lucy Frazer
The Government are committed to supporting our world-leading broadcasters and film and television industries. This includes ensuring that public service content is easy to find on a wide range of TV platforms; delivering our UK global screen fund, which is investing £21 million in the international growth of independent screen productions across the UK; and continuing to support the screen sector's tax reliefs, which provided more than £1 billion in support in the last financial year.
Session: Film and Television Production Industry
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Many people in England pay an additional road tax to cross a river, be it the Humber, the Thames, the Tyne, the Mersey, the Trent, the Itchen or the Tamar. In 2020, a freedom of information request revealed that National Highways is responsible for maintaining 9,392 road bridges already. Will the Department investigate bringing all crossings on main routes under National Highways control?
Context
The questioner raises concerns about road bridges across major rivers in England, noting that National Highways maintains 9,392 bridges. A freedom of information request revealed that these bridges are subject to additional road tax.
Richard Holden
The Department has no plans to introduce tolls anywhere else on the strategic road network, which is a long-standing Government policy. The provision, upkeep and operation of significant crossings is funded by toll incomes at local level, but as always, I would be happy to meet her to discuss that specific local issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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What assurances can the Government give that they will speak to the NFFO and ensure that fishing is an important factor in spatial planning discussions?
Context
The MP hosted a launch of a report by the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations highlighting concerns about fishing grounds loss.
Mark Spencer
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for her work on fisheries and welcome the NFFO's report highlighting the need for holistic spatial planning. I meet regularly with the NFFO to discuss a wide variety of issues, including spatial prioritisation.
Session: Fish Stocks
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What steps her Department is taking to protect fish stocks. The fishing industry across the UK has highlighted concerns about loss of fishing grounds due to an array of pressures, including offshore wind and marine protected areas. What assurances can the Government give that they will speak to the NFFO and ensure that fishing is an important factor?
Context
The MP raised concerns about fish stocks in UK waters and the impact of various pressures such as offshore wind and marine protected areas.
Mark Spencer
Our landmark Fisheries Act 2020 sets out the legal framework for managing fish stocks. We welcome the NFFO's report and meet regularly to discuss spatial prioritisation, including concerns outlined in the report.
Session: Fish Stocks
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What more can the Department do to help these small businesses access the widest possible market? South East Cornwall farmers are rightly proud of their excellent produce. I have to mention Cornish blue and Cornish Gouda, which are made in my constituency.
Context
The MP asked about additional support for small food and drink businesses in accessing international markets.
Kevin Hollinrake
Our Export Academy delivers specialist food and drink modules to get companies started, and our Export Support Service can answer questions on export markets in Europe. Companies can access our network of international trade advisers across England, and the Department has teams in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Session: Export Barriers for Food and Farming Businesses
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What recent progress her Department has made on tackling export barriers for food and farming businesses. I am concerned about the barriers faced by these sectors in accessing international markets.
Context
The MP asked about recent progress on reducing export barriers for UK food and farming businesses.
Kevin Hollinrake
Over the financial year up to March 2022, we did away with 192 barriers across 79 countries, including by opening up markets for UK poultry meat in Japan, and for UK pork in Mexico—a market that will be worth £50 million to UK pork producers in the first five years of trade. Cornwall is home to fantastic British produce, such as Cornish yarg and clotted cream, which are promoted and recognised around the globe through the GREAT Britain and Northern Ireland campaign.
Session: Export Barriers for Food and Farming Businesses
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The Supreme Court website states that it is the final court for civil cases and criminal cases from England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Will this continue to be the case for Northern Ireland business given the current state of affairs under the protocol?
Context
Concerns about the role of the European Court of Justice in Northern Ireland due to the Northern Ireland protocol.
Chris Heaton-Harris
The Supreme Court continues to be the final court of appeal for Northern Ireland. The European Court of Justice has a role in certain areas under the Northern Ireland protocol, but we believe it is inappropriate for the ECJ to be the final arbiter and the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill would ensure UK courts have the final say.
Session: Trade in the UK
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What steps is the Government taking to help businesses in Northern Ireland trade with the rest of the UK? I am concerned about the impact of the Northern Ireland protocol on these businesses and seek details on any financial support provided.
Context
The question arises from concerns about trade barriers and support for Northern Ireland businesses trading with the rest of the UK post-Brexit.
Chris Heaton-Harris
The Government have committed to ensuring unfettered access for Northern Ireland businesses to the rest of the UK market. Since the advent of the Northern Ireland protocol, by the end of last year, we will have spent £340 million helping traders process 2.3 million customs declarations through the trader support service for trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Session: Trade in the UK
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I recently campaigned for part of my constituency to be an investment zone, and I was pleased when the council put forward Torpoint and Liskeard. What are the Government's current plans for the proposed investment zones, as a lot of work was put into these proposals?
Context
Local efforts have been made to promote investment zones in specific areas of Sheryll Murray's constituency, notably Torpoint and Liskeard.
Oliver Dowden
My hon. Friend raises an important point, and I pay tribute to her tireless work in promoting her constituency and the wider county of Cornwall. The Government are committed to supporting local growth and to levelling up areas across the country, including the south-west and Cornwall. As the Chancellor announced in his autumn statement, the Government intend to take forward a refocused investment zone programme.
Session: GREAT Britain and Northern Ireland Campaign
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What recent assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the GREAT Britain and Northern Ireland Campaign in encouraging investment in the UK?
Context
The question arises from the need to assess recent foreign investment trends in the UK, particularly concerning the GREAT campaign's impact.
Oliver Dowden
The GREAT campaign has been highly effective in promoting the United Kingdom around the world for the past 10 years. In the last year alone, it has attracted more than £60 million of foreign investment, and has helped to generate more than £400 million from international students and a potential further £600 million of export investment and tourism returns.
Session: GREAT Britain and Northern Ireland Campaign
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I recognise that vaccinating nursing staff alongside residents happens in some places. Can we look at making it the norm throughout the country?
Context
Local care providers raised concerns about energy costs and the impact of covid in care homes, suggesting staff and resident vaccinations at the same time.
Helen Whately
The NHS is strongly encouraging local vaccination teams to vaccinate staff, as well as residents when they visit care homes. That should be normal practice.
Session: Topical Questions
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While Highways England considers safety measures, what commitment can be made regarding major improvements to the A38, such as a bypass, to support the local economy?
Context
Highways England is considering safety measures for the A38 between Carkeel and Trerulefoot in South East Cornwall.
Richard Holden
Highways England is developing a package of targeted safety measures for the A38, which will be considered for possible delivery within RIS3. Although we are not considering further massive enhancements such as a bypass at this time, future road plans remain open.
Session: Topical Questions
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My right hon. Friend the Member for Uxbridge and South Ruislip (Boris Johnson) has built up a fantastic relationship with the Ukrainian President, and I thank him for his lead. Has his advice and expertise been sought as we work to continue this excellent relationship into the future?
Context
The question arises from the legacy of Boris Johnson's leadership in supporting Ukraine and his relationship with President Zelensky.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
My right hon. Friend the Member for Uxbridge and South Ruislip has led the world in ensuring Putin's illegal invasion of Ukraine will fail, with work led by the Ministry of Defence to provide defensive weapons to the Ukrainian army and sanctions work led by my team at the FCDO.
Session: Topical Questions
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If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. The Foreign Secretary is in Egypt at COP27, continuing UK leadership on net zero transition and helping vulnerable countries adapt to climate shocks. Since last oral questions, the UK has worked with international partners and allies on all threats to peace and security.
Context
The question arises from the ongoing international efforts to address climate change and security threats.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
The Foreign Secretary is at COP27 in Egypt, continuing UK leadership on net zero transition and helping vulnerable countries adapt to climate shocks. Since last oral questions, the UK has worked with international partners and allies on all threats to peace and security.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Pet Travel — [Rushanara Ali in the Chair]
02 December 2021
Responding: Rebecca Pow
Main Concerns
["I am concerned that a lack of focus on cats by DEFRA could result in a missed opportunity to stop the illegal trade in cats and kittens before it reaches the scale and cruelty of the illegal puppy trade. There is an estimated population of 10.7 million pet cats in the UK, with 24% of adults owning a cat. Cats Protection's report found that more recently obtained cats are significantly more likely to be pedigrees: 36% compared with just 16% for those obtained over five years ago. The number of cats seized at the UK border more than doubled between 2019 and 2020, with a large increase in high-value breeds such as Scottish Folds, Maine Coons and Bengals."]
Specific Asks
['I would like us to raise the importation age of cats to six months. Not extending the provisions proposed for dogs to cats threatens their welfare by risking having pregnant cats imported to meet increased demand. Public communications from DEFRA on banning the importation of mutilated animals should have a clear focus on cats as well, such as through the practice of declawing, which is illegal in the UK under section 5 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.']
UK Fisheries
12 February 2020
Responding: George Eustice
Main Concerns
["Ms Murray is concerned about the impact of past fishing policies on small boatyards and fishermen in her constituency. She highlights that under the common fisheries policy, smaller vessels received inadequate quota allocations, leading to significant hardship for those involved in the industry. She also mentions safety issues arising from new licensing conditions imposed by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), which require skippers of under-10-metre boats to estimate fish catches within a 10% tolerance, risking criminal prosecution with severe penalties. Fleetwood's deep sea fishing industry suffered significant decline in the late 1960s and early 1970s, leading to a loss of jobs and identity for the town. The community is concerned about the impact of trade negotiations with the EU on UK waters and fears a sense of betrayal if control over fishing rights is ceded."]
Specific Asks
["Ms Murray calls for the Minister to meet with fishermen's representatives and fish auctioneers to address concerns about the new MMO licensing app. She also requests that the Government restores terms from the Merchant Shipping Act 1988 to prevent non-UK vessels from benefiting from UK fishing quotas, ensuring all catch is landed in UK ports. The Fisheries Bill should mandate that fish caught under UK quota be landed in UK ports to support job creation, and there should be a redistribution of quotas from large multinational companies to smaller boats to boost employment. The Government must also address safety issues and provide holistic support for the fishing industry."]
Tamar Crossings
07 May 2024
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
The MP discussed the history of Tamar crossings, highlighting the financial challenges faced by local authorities in funding maintenance and new infrastructure. She mentioned the increase in tolls to ...
Backbench Business
29 June 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Congratulates those involved in the fishing industry for their contributions to coastal communities; highlights the importance of fisheries as a supply chain that includes boat manufacturing, seafood ...
Independent Adviser on Ministers’ Interests Resignation
16 June 2022
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
COP26
19 January 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asked the Government what progress was made at COP26 to ensure the Paris Agreement temperature goal remains achievable, inquired about funding for Northern Ireland’s farming sector, and questioned the...
Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill - Second Reading of the entire bill
25 October 2021
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs moved that the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill be read a Second time. He highlighted the UK's long-standing commitment to animal welfa...
COP26
20 October 2021
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Oral Answers to Questions
18 October 2021
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
COP26
14 July 2021
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
House of Commons Commission
17 June 2021
General Debate
Led by this MP
Asked about the ongoing facilities and measures in place to ensure the safety of staff members during the pandemic, highlighting the importance of recognising their hard work and suggesting a review f...
Local Government Finance (England)
10 February 2021
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Begged to move the Local Government Finance Report (England) 2021-22 and associated reports for consideration.
10
PMQs Asked
110
Ministerial Questions Asked
22
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
17
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
+173% above average
This MP:
10
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+722% above average
This MP:
110
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-21% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+351% above average
This MP:
22
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+80% above average
This MP:
17
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 Sheryll Murray's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.