Steve Double
MP for St Austell and Newquay
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The £132 million allocated to Cornwall from the shared prosperity fund not only kept our promise to the Cornish people to replace EU funding but has supported dozens of businesses and funded projects across the duchy. However, the current round of SPF expires next year, so can the Prime Minister confirm that his Government will continue the shared prosperity funding and will continue to provide the support that the Cornish economy needs?
Context
Cornwall received £132 million from the shared prosperity fund to replace EU funding, supporting dozens of businesses and projects. The current round expires next year.
Rishi Sunak
Cornwall has been awarded over £130 million through the UK shared prosperity fund to deliver, I think, a hundred different projects across the county. Funding is confirmed for this spending review period up to the end of March 2025 but, as with all Government funding, decisions regarding the fund's future are a matter for the next spending review. I assure my hon Friend that we remain committed to an ambitious levelling-up agenda in Cornwall and across the country.
Assessment
Specific commitment or figure about continued funding after 2025 was not provided
Decisions Regarding The Fund'S Future Are A Matter For The Next Spending Review
Session: PMQs
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Access to housing that local people can afford is a challenge. We need houses available and affordable to locals, particularly in rural and coastal areas. Can you assure me and my constituents that under your Government, local communities will play a part in the planning process?
Context
Cornwall faces challenges with affordable housing. The Leader of the Opposition has stated intentions to ignore local views on planning matters.
Rishi Sunak
Our affordable homes programme is delivering hundreds of thousands of homes across the country. Crucially, on this side of the House we believe that local communities must be consulted, unlike Labour's plan for top-down housing targets.
Assessment
Did not provide a direct commitment to involve local communities
Compared Their Policy Favourably Against Labour'S
Session: PMQs
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As the Government reform planning systems, can my right hon. Friend ensure that this will not be about building homes for wealthy buyers and instead ensure locals have access to homes they need?
Context
Local people are being priced out of the housing market by inflated prices due to demand from those moving or buying holiday homes, worsening a long-standing problem.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend raises an issue raised repeatedly with me in Cornwall, and we are determined to address it by working with the new Conservative Cornwall Council to build homes for locals so young Cornish people have a chance of owning their home.
Assessment
Did not specify how reforms will prevent building for wealthy buyers
Session: PMQs
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I thank the Prime Minister for bringing the G7 leaders' summit to Cornwall this summer. This will put Cornwall front and centre on the world stage as we emerge from the pandemic and give us a great opportunity to showcase all that Cornwall has to offer. It is a great place to visit not just for its amazing food and drink sector, but for the technologies of the future in space and in renewable energy. I know the Prime Minister shares my ambition for the G7 to leave a lasting economic legacy for the people of Cornwall, so to that end, and in the light of the recent progress on lithium extraction, will he work with me to secure a gigafactory for Cornwall so that we can produce the batteries, leave that lasting economic legacy and provide the well-paid jobs for the future that Cornwall needs?
Context
Cornwall is set to host the G7 leaders' summit this summer, presenting an opportunity to showcase its strengths in tourism, technology, and renewable energy. The recent progress on lithium extraction has raised hopes for economic growth.
Boris Johnson
I think Cornwall is the Klondike of lithium, as far as I understand the matter, and I would be delighted to assist my hon. Friend in locating a gigafactory somewhere near Cornwall—I do not want to promise too much at this stage.
Assessment
Did not commit to securing a specific gigafactory for Cornwall or providing a timeline.
Session: PMQs
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Regional airports are going to play a crucial role in our recovery from the pandemic and in levelling up our country, but many of them, such as Cornwall Airport Newquay, have been very hard hit not only because of the lockdown, but because of the demise of Flybe. There is a very real concern that if our smaller airports close at this time, they may never open again, which will make the Government's levelling-up agenda even harder to deliver. So could my right hon. Friend please ensure that our regional airports get all the help that they need, whether that be through grants or the Government backing more public sector obligation routes, and would he carefully look at reducing air passenger duty, particularly on domestic flights?
Context
The MP mentioned the importance of regional airports in the recovery from the pandemic, noting the impact of lockdowns and Flybe's demise on many smaller airports such as Cornwall Airport Newquay.
Boris Johnson
Yes. We will continue to consider applications for public service obligations on routes into Newquay and elsewhere. We will certainly look at air passenger duty, although it would be wrong of me to make any fiscal commitment at this stage.
Assessment
fiscal commitment not given
Continue To Consider Applications
Look At Apd
Session: PMQs
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Tomorrow is St Piran's day. Is the Prime Minister aware that significant deposits of lithium have been identified in Cornwall? Will he commit his Government to enabling Cornwall to make the most of this opportunity?
Context
Cornwall is identified to have significant lithium deposits, which could contribute to the UK's domestic supply of critical minerals.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
This country leads in battery technology. Cornwall has extensive lithium resources, which we mean to exploit. The Government is committed to exploiting this opportunity.
Session: PMQs
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Steve Double welcomes the PM's commitment to invest and level up and specifically asks for confirmation on continued investment in infrastructure projects in Cornwall.
Context
Cornwall continues to be one of the poorest parts of the UK, despite government commitments to level up across the country.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Johnson confirms commitment to invest in Cornwall, mentioning specific projects like the A303 upgrade, rail transport improvements, and NHS services for various towns in Cornwall.
Session: PMQs
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Through their hard work and under the leadership and policies of the Government, we have achieved an 80.2% employment rate locally, which is well above the national average. We also have some great opportunities for the jobs of the future coming through in renewable energy, lithium extraction and the space sector. What more are the Government doing to ensure that local people in Cornwall can grasp those opportunities?
Context
The local employment rate is above the national average, but there are new opportunities in renewable energy and other sectors that need to be grasped by local people.
Jo Churchill
My hon. Friend is a formidable champion for his area. As we speak, our partnership team is working with local employers such as Naked Solar to design sector-based work programmes and fill potential vacancies. I am keen to work with him and his neighbours, because the areas that he named are all good for the high-wage jobs that his constituents deserve.
Session: Job Vacancies St Austell and Newquay
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What steps he is taking to help fill job vacancies in St Austell and Newquay constituency?
Context
The question arises from the need to address job vacancies in local areas.
Jo Churchill
I know that my hon. Friend knows what a fantastic job his jobcentres do. This month, St Austell is running a sector-based placement with Crown Rail, offering guaranteed interviews to those who complete the training. Newquay jobcentre has worked brilliantly to bring in 20 new employers, who are using the jobcentre regularly to help fill their vacancies.
Session: Job Vacancies St Austell and Newquay
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Will the Minister meet me to discuss what we can do to protect Mawgan Porth from both river and coastal flooding?
Context
The MP discusses flood risks faced by the village of Mawgan Porth and requests a meeting to look at ways to reduce flood risk.
Robbie Moore
Having been to Cornwall to meet my hon. Friend and see the StARR project for myself, I am more than happy to meet to discuss what more we can do.
Session: Topical Questions
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Would you consider establishing a dedicated coastal services delivery grant to provide necessary funding support for coastal regions like Cornwall?
Context
The government has established the rural services delivery grant for rural areas but not yet addressed the unique challenges faced by coastal regions, such as Cornwall.
Simon Hoare
While not committing directly, the Minister acknowledges the suggestion's merit and offers to discuss further with the questioner. He notes strong points behind the argument but does not provide a clear commitment or timeline.
Session: Cost of Public Services Coastal Areas
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What recent estimate do you have regarding the additional cost to public services delivery in coastal regions? Cornwall, with the longest coastline, faces particular challenges in this area.
Context
Councils in coastal areas face unique challenges and additional costs due to their geographical location. The government has acknowledged the need for reforming local government funding but has not yet addressed these specific issues.
Simon Hoare
Cornwall is unique due to its long coastline and faces specific challenges. The government aims to reform local funding, considering options for grants related to flooding and coastal erosion. Specific plans are under discussion.
Session: Cost of Public Services Coastal Areas
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Cornwall has a very large number of off-grid properties. One way they can decarbonise their heating is through the use of renewable liquid heating fuel. Last year, the Government said there would be a consultation on promoting and supporting the use of that fuel in the coming months. However, in response to a recent written question it was suggested that it would not be launched until at least September this year. Will the Government bring forward the consultation as soon as possible, so we can help people to decarbonise through the use of renewable fuels?
Context
Cornwall has a large number of off-grid properties, and there is potential to decarbonise their heating through the use of renewable liquid heating fuel. However, there have been delays in launching a consultation on promoting this fuel.
Amanda Solloway
The Government recognise the potential for renewable liquid fuels to play a role in decarbonising heat where heat pumps are unsuitable, and we are working at pace to develop a consultation that will explore that role in more detail. We will be issuing a consultation in September, in line with commitments made by Ministers during parliamentary debates on the Energy Act 2023.
Session: Decarbonisation Off-grid Properties
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What steps she is taking to support off-grid properties to decarbonise. I am concerned about the lack of support these properties receive, especially as they cannot connect to grid-based energy solutions and need alternative methods for reducing carbon emissions.
Context
The question arises from concerns over the support provided by the Government for off-grid properties in the UK that are seeking to decarbonise their heating systems.
Amanda Solloway
The Government offer grants of £7,500 to those wanting to install a heat pump, or £5,000 to install a biomass boiler, under the boiler upgrade scheme. Support for energy efficiency upgrades and low-carbon heat is also available through our help to heat schemes.
Session: Decarbonisation Off-grid Properties
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Will my hon. Friend confirm that, following the 4p cut in national insurance that the Chancellor has introduced, the tax take on workers will be the lowest it has been for 50 years? In St Austell and Newquay, two people in a household on average incomes will be paying £1,800 less this coming year than they did last year.
Context
The Minister introduced a 4p cut in national insurance, impacting tax rates for workers.
Nigel Huddleston
Yes, absolutely, my hon. Friend has pointed out an important point on how we have had a laser focus on reducing the personal tax rates. Furthermore, the measures announced in the autumn statement and in the spring Budget will significantly add to economic activity, contributing about 200,000 full-time equivalent jobs to the economy.
Session: Tax Policies Impact on Living Standards
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Many off-grid homes in Cornwall face challenges converting to energy-efficient heating systems due to high costs. Using hydro-treated vegetable oil is one solution, but it faces a tax barrier. Will the Government support renewable liquid heating fuels and back a campaign to remove HVO taxes?
Context
The question is about supporting off-grid homes in Cornwall that use hydro-treated vegetable oil for energy-efficient heating without high costs.
Amanda Solloway
We are developing a consultation on the role of renewable liquid fuels in heat. Department for Energy Security and Net Zero Ministers will receive detailed information, and we aim to publish it by summer 2024.
Session: Home Energy Efficiency
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Could he outline what he learned from that experience? Will he reveal to the House who else from the Lobby is on his list to be tagged?
Context
The Minister spent a day wearing a GPS tag, along with Jack Elsom from The Sun.
Alex Chalk
There is a serious point: modern GPS tags act as a constant physical reminder that debts to society must be repaid and breach of a court order will be detected. We could put the entire Lobby on alcohol tags, but I think that would deal a fatal blow to the UK drinks industry.
Session: Topical Questions
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If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. He spent a day wearing a GPS tag, along with Jack Elsom from The Sun. Could he outline what he learned from that experience?
Context
The Justice Minister met families of victims killed by Valdo Calocane and announced an early legal advice pilot.
Alex Chalk
Modern GPS tags act as a constant physical reminder that debts to society must be repaid, breach of a court order will be detected, and transgressors face the risk of prison. We recognise that the safety of our prisons is in large measure down to the quality and quantity of staff.
Session: Topical Questions
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A recent report highlighted that there were 15,000 missed GP appointments in Cornwall. That is happening month after month. Does the Minister agree that this is completely unacceptable, and can she highlight what steps the Government will take to address the issue?
Context
The MP highlights the issue of missed GP appointments and seeks steps to address it.
Andrea Leadsom
My hon. Friend is right; it is appalling that people book an appointment and then do not show up. In many GP surgeries now they post the numbers of patients who do not turn up for their appointments and urge people to make the effort to cancel.
Session: Primary Care Patient Access
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What consideration is given to Cornwall's unique geography when considering funding public services and in levelling up the Duchy? Cornwall's geographical position at the far end of the south-west peninsula creates well-known challenges that are understood by the Government.
Context
Cornwall, despite not being an island, faces many of the same challenges as remote island communities due to its geographical position. This has shaped a proud but unique identity while also creating economic and service delivery challenges.
Brendan Clarke-Smith
Cornwall's geographical position is well known, and challenges are understood by the Government. The Government have committed £99 million across four Cornish towns through various funds and allocated £132 million from the UK shared prosperity fund for Cornwall to decide on local investments. We are also negotiating a historic devolution deal with Cornwall Council.
Session: Support for Island Communities
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Despite the busy summer season in Cornwall, many hotels were operating at less than capacity due to staffing issues. With the current £58 allowance for accommodation offsets, will the Minister commit to reviewing this figure?
Context
There's a limit on how much accommodation staff can offset provided by their employer, which is an issue in areas like Cornwall where hotels need to attract and retain staff.
Nigel Huddleston
I make the commitment to work across Departments to see what solutions can be found regarding the issues raised by my hon. Friend's constituents, who provided compelling information during our recent conversation.
Session: Tourism Industry
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The UK should feel rightly proud of the progress we are making to cut our carbon footprint and our commitment to net zero, but with less than 1% of global emissions it is clear that the UK cannot fight climate change on its own. So will the Minister assure me that we will use both our diplomatic and commercial influence to put pressure on not only the G7, but other nations that are the most polluting to take urgent action to address this matter and reduce their emissions?
Context
The questioner acknowledges UK's progress in cutting carbon footprint but emphasizes the need for a global effort and asks if the Government will use diplomatic and commercial influence to put pressure on major polluters.
James Duddridge
My hon. Friend is absolutely right: tackling climate change and biodiversity loss will require a global effort. We are asking all countries to agree ambitious nationally determined contributions that align with net zero and to invest in policies that will phase out coal, which will turn these targets into a reality. We have already made great progress, as has been seen by last month's first ever net zero G7.
Session: Climate Change
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Can my right hon. Friend confirm that Cornwall will be at the heart of the Government's levelling-up agenda, and can he say what plans the Government have to invest in the Cornish economy?
Context
The question focuses on Cornwall's historical economic challenges and seeks specific investment plans for job creation and future economic growth.
Michael Gove
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care emphasised during his visit to Cornwall that job opportunities in Cornwall are being extended as part of the Government's efforts.
Session: Levelling-up Agenda
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What steps are the Government taking to implement their levelling-up agenda?
Context
The question arises from the government's commitment to implement a levelling-up agenda aimed at improving livelihoods and opportunities across the UK. The focus is on specific steps being taken by the government.
Michael Gove
Levelling up is at the heart of the Government's agenda. Later this year, a landmark levelling-up White Paper will be published setting out new policy interventions to improve livelihoods and opportunity in every part of the United Kingdom.
Session: Levelling-up Agenda
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The past year has clearly illustrated just how important the hospitality and tourism sectors are not only to our economy, with the jobs and businesses they support in the supply chain, but to our overall wellbeing and the contribution they make to social mobility. As the chair of the all-party parliamentary group for hospitality and tourism, I know just how important this cut in VAT has been in supporting those businesses, but will the Treasury take another look at the merits of making this reduction permanent to further support the sector and the growth in jobs that it can create?
Context
Acknowledging the significant role of these sectors in economic recovery, the questioner seeks further support through a permanent VAT reduction.
Jesse Norman
My hon. Friend is absolutely right that this has been an incredibly challenging period for the tourism and hospitality sectors, and it is also right to recognise that many organisations within these sectors have benefited from the measures that I have described, including the extensions to the employment schemes, business rates holidays and the VAT reduction, as well as the very important wider restart grants and the additional restrictions grant. As these restrictions are lifted and demand for goods and services in these sectors resumes, temporary reliefs are being phased out and in time will be removed. Bridging that transition to a standard rate by applying a temporary 12.5% rate will help businesses to manage the change.
Session: VAT Reduction Tourism and Hospitality
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What assessment his Department has made of the effect of the temporary reduction in VAT for businesses on the recovery of the (a) tourism and (b) hospitality sectors from the covid-19 outbreak?
Context
The question follows from a government announcement extending VAT reductions to support businesses. It aims to understand the assessment of these measures' effects on economic recovery in the context of job protection.
Jesse Norman
The temporary reduced rate of VAT aims to support the cash flow and viability of around 150,000 businesses and to protect more than 2.4 million jobs. As was announced at the Budget, the Government extended the temporary reduced rate of VAT to 31 March 2022, with a phased return to the standard rate. This relief alone is estimated to be worth more than £7 billion to the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Session: VAT Reduction Tourism and Hospitality
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With the development of the Cornwall spaceport and the Goonhilly earth station, Cornwall is set to become a major hub for the UK space industry. As the Government are looking to relocate Government Departments and agencies around the country, would my right hon. Friend look into moving part of the UK Space Agency to Cornwall?
Context
Cornwall is set to become a major hub for the UK space industry with developments like the Cornwall spaceport and Goonhilly earth station.
Michael Gove
I think it is a very good idea. I have to say that Shetland and Sutherland are benefiting from space investment as well as Cornwall. At this stage, I cannot make any firm commitment, but I do think that my hon. Friend has made a strong case for Cornwall.
Session: Topical Questions
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The recent announcement by the Chancellor of a £220 million pilot scheme for the shared prosperity fund is a welcome step forward. However, there are some in Cornwall who claim that this is a sign that the Government will break their commitment to match the funding that places such as Cornwall received through the EU. Can my right hon. Friend confirm that the Government are committed to replacing EU funding, which amounted to £1.5 billion per year, in full, and that, as the Prime Minister has stated, Cornwall will receive its share in a dedicated pot?
Context
Concerns about whether the UK shared prosperity fund will match previous EU funding amounts.
Michael Gove
I can absolutely reassure my hon. Friend that, as set out at the spending review, funding for the UK shared prosperity fund will be increased so that it at least matches the EU receipts on average, which reached around £1.5 billion a year. We will publish a UK-wide framework in the spring, which will set out full details, and to help local areas prepare for the introduction of the SPF, we are providing the additional £220 million that my hon. Friend referred to. Of course, we will work closely with Cornwall to ensure that it gets the funding that it needs and for which he is such an effective advocate.
Session: Topical Questions
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There is great concern in the far south-west that daffodil growers will not be able to access the workforce they need to pick this year's crop. The peak of the season is literally days away. We welcome the successful pilot of the seasonal agricultural workers scheme, but there is concern that it will not be in place quickly enough or that it will not provide enough staff for flower pickers this winter.
Context
The MP expresses concern about the potential workforce shortage for daffodil growers due to delays in rolling out the seasonal agricultural workers scheme.
Kevin Foster
I recognise the importance of the issue. We are looking to continue the seasonal workers pilot into 2021. As the Home Secretary said a few moments ago, we will confirm the numbers shortly, but it is worth remembering that the restrictions on international travel may well affect the number who actually travel, as they did this year.
Session: Topical Questions
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There is no doubt that the universal credit system has stood up well to the unprecedented increase in demand placed on it this year, including by being flexible and responsive in the way that the Minister described. Will she join me in thanking the staff at the UC service centre in St Austell, which I believe is the busiest and best performing service centre in the country, for their excellent hard work and dedication this year? Does she share my concern that all we hear from the Opposition is dragging down the system, which is working so much better than the legacy system we inherited, and while they call for it to be scrapped, they never say what they would replace it with?
Context
The MP acknowledges the universal credit system's flexibility during increased demand but expresses concern over opposition calls to scrap it without offering alternatives.
Mims Davies
I would be delighted to extend my thanks to the dedicated and hard-working team at the St Austell service centre and their colleagues across the rest of the DWP, who have played their part in processing a 90% national increase in UC claims since March. I agree with my hon. Friend's point about the Opposition. Without the agile, digital universal credit system, we simply would not have been able to quickly and safely process millions of additional claims and get money and support to the people who needed it most in this health emergency.
Session: Self-Employed Universal Credit Claimants Covid-19
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What steps her Department is taking to support self-employed universal credit claimants during the covid-19 outbreak.
Context
The question arises from the need to provide support to self-employed individuals who rely on Universal Credit during the pandemic.
Mims Davies
The minimum income floor —the MIF— was first suspended in March this year, and we have now extended the suspension until the end of April 2021. This provides vital support for self-employed claimants by ensuring that they receive a full UC award during these uncertain times.
Session: Self-Employed Universal Credit Claimants Covid-19
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Can the Minister update the House on when we can expect the Government to come forward with details of the shared prosperity fund?
Context
Cornwall has received funding through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and will continue to receive support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The MP is asking when details of this replacement fund will be provided.
Amanda Milling
The arrangements for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund will be confirmed following the upcoming spending review. The Government are committed to introducing a fund that matches at a minimum the current levels of funding from EU structural funds.
Session: Regional Equality of Economic Opportunity
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France has over 80 PSO-backed domestic aviation routes connecting its regions, while the UK has only four. What consideration is being given to backing more domestic routes with PSOs?
Context
Concerned about the lack of public service obligations (PSOs) supporting regional connections in the UK compared to France, the MP requested an update on government considerations.
Grant Shapps
My hon. Friend points out that other countries have more PSOs; France has 37. We are looking at this through the regional airport review, and I know the PSO route from Newquay is important.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. She will be aware that people in Cornwall have for far too long faced a disadvantage of opportunity because of our geography. Will she ensure that among all the loud political noise at this time, levelling up geographical inequalities will remain at the heart of this Government's agenda?
Context
DETAILED context: The question draws attention to the long-standing issue of geographic inequality affecting Cornwall, emphasizing the need for continued focus on levelling up despite political noise.
Elizabeth Truss
I agree. It is vital that we level up across the country and make sure that someone's postcode does not dictate their life chances. As I saw when visiting Cornwall's growing lithium mining industry last week, there are real opportunities to level up and help Cornwall to grow economically and benefit all the people of that great county.
Session: Geographic Inequality of Opportunity
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What steps she is taking to tackle geographic inequality of opportunity in the UK?
Context
DETAILED context: The question addresses the persistent issue of geographic inequality and lack of opportunities across different regions of the United Kingdom. This is particularly relevant as the government aims to implement policies that reduce disparities.
Elizabeth Truss
We are determined to tackle geographic inequality and level up our country. The Equality Hub will look at the data to identify the real barriers that are holding people back.
Session: Geographic Inequality of Opportunity
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In St Austell and Newquay, almost 250,000 meals were eaten—not all by me—as part of the eat out to help out scheme, which put around £1.3 million into our local economy, so on behalf of businesses in mid-Cornwall, I thank the Chancellor for his support. August has been incredibly busy in Cornwall, but the hospitality sector faces a big challenge as we head into winter. Will my right hon. Friend consider a similar scheme to be run in the winter to help as many businesses as possible survive the winter and be here next summer?
Context
The MP is seeking a similar scheme to be run in the winter to help businesses survive the colder months.
Jesse Norman
There is a danger of a bidding contest between colleagues over the number of meals eaten under the eat out to help out scheme. I would dissuade them from that. In answer to my hon. Friend's question, however, I would say that there is this wider package. Of course the Treasury keeps all its measures under review, but it is a pretty formidable combination of VAT reductions, business rates relief and billions in tax deferrals and loans.
Session: Eat Out to Help Out Scheme
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Will the Secretary of State commit to working with me and the college to bring forward the redevelopment as soon as possible?
Context
Cornwall College seeks to redevelop its St Austell campus for high-quality further education facilities.
Gavin Williamson
Cornwall College is a beneficiary of £1.4 million extra funding towards further education capital build. I would be delighted to meet my hon. Friend and the college to discuss their plans for St Austell and hear about transforming educational outcomes in Cornwall.
Session: Topical Questions
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Cornwall is proud to produce some of the finest and most sought-after food and drink, but the sector has been hit hard as a result of the pandemic. Will the Minister lay out how food producers in Cornwall, and indeed around the country, will benefit from the agri-food bounce-back package that he mentioned?
Context
Cornwall's food and drink sector has been severely impacted by the pandemic.
Graham Stuart (The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Trade Policy)
The bounce-back package, launched in June, facilitates additional access for small businesses' products to UK Export Finance. It launches a suite of export masterclasses and webinars to overcome some of the lack of understanding of opportunities in foreign markets and challenges faced in entering them. My Department is working through our international trade adviser network to support local Cornish food and drink companies to access virtual meet-the-buyer events and upcoming United Kingdom agricultural policy webinars.
Session: Food and Farming Sector Covid-19
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What more can be done to ensure funding reaches these hard-pressed councils?
Context
Town and parish councils in Cornwall have incurred extra costs while seeing a drop in income due to the pandemic.
Simon Clarke (Minister of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities)
Thanking councils for their pandemic support; encouraging discussions with Cornwall Council regarding £3.7 billion in un-ring-fenced grant funding.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can my right hon. Friend confirm that Cornwall will be a major part of this Government's levelling-up agenda?
Context
Cornwall has been seen as the poorest part of England and is set to face a very severe impact from the current crisis.
Michael Gove (The Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities)
Cornwall has many attractions but the reliance on tourism makes parts of it uniquely vulnerable. The Chancellor took steps to support hospitality but more needs to be done.
Session: Topical Questions
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What assessment has been made of the potential effect of future free trade agreements on the economy in Cornwall? The Member emphasizes that Cornish food and drink are among the highest quality and most sought after globally but expresses concern about high standards being undermined in trade deals. What reassurance can be provided to Cornish food producers regarding their interests, and what export opportunities exist?
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential effects of future UK trade deals on the regional economy, particularly for businesses in Cornwall.
Ranil Jayawardena (Minister of State for Trade Policy)
Like my hon. Friend, I am also proud of the high-quality produce from British farmers, including those in Cornwall. Trade deals will help deliver economic security for Britain and protect us all from new trade barriers and tariffs that could harm jobs and industry. Cornish food producers will be supported at every turn and continue to be highly competitive, with negotiations rewarding them through providing access to new markets.
Session: Free Trade Agreements Effect on Cornwall
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It is clear that T-levels will have a valuable part to play in ensuring we have the workforce of the future across the economy, but the sector of the economy being most adversely affected by the current crisis is hospitality. It is vital that this sector is able to access the workforce it needs to recover, particularly in a post-Brexit world, so will the Minister please consider bringing forward a T-level in hospitality as soon as possible?
Context
Inquires about the necessity of a T-level programme specifically for the hospitality sector to aid workforce recovery post-COVID-19.
Gillian Keegan, Minister for Apprenticeships and Skills
I agree with my hon. Friend: equipping people with skills they need is crucial to our economic recovery, particularly in St Austell and Newquay. To support tourism and hospitality, we will offer T-levels in cultural heritage and visitor attractions, catering, and management and administration. I hope that, with my hon. Friend's support, T-levels will be available soon so young people in St Austell and Newquay can benefit from a high-quality technical education.
Session: T-levels
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What assessment has been made of the potential effect of the introduction of T-levels on (a) the quality and (b) recognition of technical education?
Context
Inquires about the assessment of T-levels' effect on the quality and recognition of technical education.
Gillian Keegan, Minister for Apprenticeships and Skills
T-levels are based on the best international examples of technical education and employer-designed. They will help raise quality and prestige of technical education across the UK with longer teaching hours and a meaningful industry placement. I am confident that T-levels provide a high-quality alternative to A-levels, giving technical education the status and recognition it deserves.
Session: T-levels
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Will the Minister consider reviewing points-based system to reflect lessons learnt from current situation?
Context
Recognition of crucial roles played by 'low-skilled' workers during crisis.
Priti Patel
Commitment to keep all aspects of points-based system under review; ensuring tradeable points based on skills and labour market need across sectors.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps is the Department taking to ensure that the armed forces' capabilities are adequate for future threats? My constituency in Cornwall is excited about launching satellites from Spaceport Cornwall; will space be fully part of the integrated review?
Context
The Ministry of Defence has rigorous processes to assure, test, and develop its capabilities.
Jeremy Quin
We have established a space directorate tasked with advancing opportunities for the UK commercial space sector. I assure my hon. Friend that space and its potential will indeed be part of the integrated review.
Session: Armed Forces Capability
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The British Egg Industry Council recently commissioned a report on the impact that changes to import tariffs would have on UK egg producers. The report particularly highlighted concerns about cutting import tariffs on egg products when they come from countries with much lower welfare standards. How does my right hon. Friend plan to protect the good eggs, such as St Ewe Free Range Eggs in my constituency, which produces the finest free range eggs money can buy, against the bad eggs from countries with lower welfare standards?
Context
The British Egg Industry Council's report highlights concerns about cutting import tariffs on eggs from countries with lower welfare standards.
Elizabeth Truss
The consultation on the UK global tariff, which will set the most favoured nation tariff rate for eggs, among other products, closes tonight, so I suggest that my hon. Friend gets the eggs-cellent company in his constituency to put in a submission to the consultation and make its views known.
Session: Topical Questions
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Welcoming the Minister, Steve Double asks if she agrees with him that Cornwall would be an ideal location for the Marine Management Organisation due to its extensive coastline and fishing industry's need to capitalise on post-Brexit prospects.
Context
Cornwall has a large coastline and a fishing industry that could benefit from Brexit opportunities.
Amanda Milling (Minister for Policing, Criminal Justice and Victims)
Congratulating Steve Double on advocating for Cornwall, Amanda Milling acknowledges the relocation of civil service roles across the UK as part of the Places for Growth programme. She reassures him that the Marine Management Organisation already has several offices in the south-west, including one in Cornwall.
Session: Relocating Public Bodies
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Under Ten Metre Fishing Fleet Challenges And Support
15 May 2024
Responding: Mark Spencer
Main Concerns
['Steve Double highlighted the importance of the under-10-metre fishing fleet, which represents around 80% of UK vessels and provides 50% of catch-related jobs. He noted that this fleet is in decline, with over 100 vessels lost annually. The fishermen face challenges such as climate change impacting fish distribution, high costs for new quotas due to lateral movement restrictions, and difficulties accessing certain species like bass and tuna despite increased stocks.']
Specific Asks
['Double urged the Minister to provide more flexibility in quota systems, develop sustainable commercial tuna quotas, re-establish a pollock quota during spawning seasons, address issues with the closure of Plymouth fish market, and increase control over fishing waters up to the 12-mile limit.']
Under-10-Metre Fishing Fleet: South-West
15 May 2024
Responding: Mark Spencer
Main Concerns
['Mr. Steve Double expressed concern about the decline of the under-10-metre fishing fleet in Cornwall, citing statistics that it represents around 80% of UK vessels and provides 50% of catch-related jobs. The fleet is facing challenges such as climate change affecting fish migration patterns, high costs for quota entitlements due to climate-induced species shifts, and limited flexibility in the quota system.']
Specific Asks
['He asked the government to provide more flexibility in allocating quotas for bass, tuna, and pollack; ensure sustainable commercial tuna quotas are developed; review restrictions on vessel licences; and take immediate action to help fishermen impacted by the closure of Plymouth fish market. He also called for renegotiating arrangements with the EU to limit foreign fishing within 12 miles of UK coast.']
Lithium: Critical Minerals Supply — [Sir Gary Streeter in the Chair]
23 April 2024
Responding: Jake Berry
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the global supply of lithium and other critical minerals, which are crucial for modern technologies including electric vehicles. The UK's demand will significantly increase in coming years, but current high-grade deposits are primarily found in four countries: Argentina, Australia, Chile, and China. There is a 55% gap between supply and demand by 2030 despite increasing global production. I also worry about the ethical and environmental standards of international extraction practices, making it imperative to secure domestic supplies. Cornwall has substantial lithium deposits that can meet half of UK car manufacturers' needs, but regulatory challenges exist."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Government to support Cornish Lithium and Imerys British Lithium by improving regulation clarity, preparing for carbon intensity standards, and addressing regulatory uncertainty on chemical classifications. I also invite the Minister to visit Cornwall to see these opportunities firsthand.']
Housing in Tourist Destinations — [Sir Charles Walker in the Chair]
28 November 2023
Responding: Lee Rowley
Main Concerns
['Cornwall faces a housing crisis exacerbated by tourism. Second homes, holiday lets, and inflated demand for rentals have pushed up property prices beyond local affordability, leading to significant numbers of second homes in coastal areas like Fowey (28%) and Mevagissey (24%). Local businesses and public services struggle to recruit staff due to the lack of available housing. The average house price is £340,000, 19% higher than the UK average, while wages are nearly 30% lower. Parish councils face financial constraints due to reductions in free resource limits from fewer electors, impacting essential local services.']
Specific Asks
["The Government should implement measures as soon as possible, including a register of holiday lets and planning change of use requirements for converting residential properties into holiday lets. The Minister is asked to provide an update on these measures' implementation timeline and consider the impact on parish councils losing their ability to support local communities."]
Regional Airports
07 July 2021
Responding: Robert Courts
Main Concerns
['Steve Double is concerned about the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the UK aviation sector. He highlighted that passenger levels at UK airports in summer 2020 were their lowest since 1975, with a decline of 94% in the first quarter of 2021 compared to 2019. The economic output for the air transport sector reduced by 89% between February and March 2020, leaving many regional airports financially distressed.']
Specific Asks
['Steve Double urges the Government to provide ongoing support to keep regional airports open and viable, especially through measures such as cutting domestic air passenger duty (APD) and expanding public service obligation routes. He calls for a decision on APD reduction with urgency.']
Domestic Tourism
12 January 2021
Responding: Nigel Huddleston
Main Concerns
["The tourism sector in St Austell and Newquay, and across Cornwall, has been severely impacted by the global pandemic. Over 50% of jobs in Newquay are reliant on tourism, with Cornwall's economy relying on it for almost 25%. Despite efforts to adapt and innovate during the pandemic, businesses face significant challenges due to the 'three-winter scenario' where they did not earn usual revenues last summer and now confront another difficult winter. Businesses have also faced sudden changes like moving from tier 2 to tier 3 with little notice, impacting their operations and stock management."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should consider extending the business rates holiday for an additional year or at least six more months; extend the VAT cut on tourism and hospitality; and provide longer repayment terms for loans taken out during the pandemic. These measures will help businesses build up working capital to reopen and take advantage of pent-up demand in the coming summer.']
Steel Trade Measure
25 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Policy 2025-11-17
17 November 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Bus Services (No. 2) Bill [Lords] 2025-09-10
10 September 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves for the clause to be read a Second time, proposing new clauses that include zero-emission vehicle requirements for local services in Scotland, £2 bus fare scheme, extending eligibility for disab...
Women’s State Pension Age Communication: PHSO Report
17 December 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
The Energy Bill - Clause on establishing Great British Energy (GBE)
05 September 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
This amendment establishes a new national, publicly owned energy generation company in the UK. Ed Miliband argues that this is essential to break from 14 years of failure under previous governments wh...
Backbench Business
09 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Morris opened the debate by highlighting the struggle of miners and their pension issues. He criticised the Government for taking nearly £5 billion from the mineworkers' pension scheme without contrib...
Hospice Funding
22 April 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
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...
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...
Cass Review
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran-Israel Update
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
7
PMQs Asked
41
Ministerial Questions Asked
111
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 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+206% above average
This MP:
41
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2184% above average
This MP:
111
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 Steve Double's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.