PMQs 2023-02-08

2023-02-08

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Context
Hollobone highlights positive developments in his constituency including hospital redevelopment, police strength increase, and broadband infrastructure.
Slava Ukraini! President Zelensky, we salute you. This year a start will be made on the rebuilding of Kettering General Hospital; the strength of Northamptonshire police will reach 1,500 officers, the highest number in its history; and Kettering is set to become one of the best-connected towns for ultrafast broadband in the country, thanks to CityFibre's investment. Given those developments and given the Prime Minister's pledge to halve inflation and tackle the NHS backlogs, is it not time also to tackle head-on the doom and gloom peddled by those who want this country to fail, and to be far more optimistic about the many good things that are happening in Kettering and across the country?
I am glad to hear of all the successes in my hon. Friend's constituency, especially the redevelopment of Kettering General Hospital, for which I know he has been campaigning tirelessly for years. He is absolutely right: this Government will continue to focus on delivering the country's priorities.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a direct commitment or timeline regarding optimism and tackling negative rhetoric
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Keir Starmer Lab
Holborn and St Pancras
Context
Starmer discusses the devastation caused by an earthquake in Turkey and Syria, highlighting the need for support from the UK.
More than 11,000 people have died as a result of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria, and the number is sadly rising. I know that many families here in the UK will be anxiously awaiting news. I am sure I speak for the whole House in saying that our hearts go out to each and every victim and their families, and we must do all we can to support the rescue and recovery effort. The House is honoured to be addressed today by President Zelensky. From the outset of the war he has symbolised the heroism, the resolve, and the bravery of his people. The Prime Minister and I joined the House together in 2015, and we have lived through important moments in our domestic and international politics, but none of those experiences compares to the pain and suffering of the people of Ukraine. Does the Prime Minister agree that it is vital for all of us, throughout the House, to continue to stand together in full support of Ukraine?
Let me first join the hon. Member in paying our respects and conveying our thoughts to the people of Turkey and Syria, particularly those affected by the earthquake, and to the first responders who are doing such a valiant job. The House will be reassured to know that we are in touch with the Turkish and Syrian authorities and are providing all the assistance that they have required of us, including the 77 search and rescue responders who arrived yesterday and have already begun work. I spoke to the President yesterday to ensure that we are in close communication.
Assessment & feedback
Responded to earthquake support rather than direct question on Ukraine support
Response accuracy
Q3 Direct Answer
Keir Starmer Lab
Holborn and St Pancras
Context
Starmer emphasizes the importance of a united voice in supporting Ukraine against Putin's aggression.
I thank the Prime Minister for that answer. Every time Putin has been appeased, he has been back for more. Does the Prime Minister agree that, across this House, we must speak with one voice and say that this terrible conflict must end with the defeat of Putin in Ukraine?
Our objective remains to ensure a Ukrainian victory in this conflict. Vladimir Putin's aggression cannot be seen in any way to have been successful. That is why we have accelerated and increased our military support for Ukraine this year—a decision that I took as Prime Minister. Today we are going even further, not just having provided Challenger tanks and being one of the first countries to do so, which catalysed the provision of tanks from other nations, but moving to start training Ukrainian marines in the advanced capabilities that they will need to mount further offensives, and to train their pilots in advanced combat aircraft. The House can be reassured that we will continue to support Ukraine to ensure decisive military victory on the battlefield this year.
Assessment & feedback
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Q4 Partial Answer
Keir Starmer Lab
Holborn and St Pancras
Context
Starmer acknowledges the UK's role in training Ukrainian soldiers and seeks further commitment to continue international efforts.
I welcome the additional support that the Prime Minister has outlined today. I have had the privilege, as I am sure he has, of seeing at first hand the brilliant work our military is doing in Salisbury to train Ukrainians in defending themselves. We all support this work and the UK's role in the international drive to ensure that Ukraine has the weapons and the technology required to defend herself. Does the Prime Minister agree that continuing this international effort is the only way to ensure Putin's defeat?
The House may not be aware that we have continued to train Ukrainian soldiers, which is something we have done for years, before the conflict started, and something that we should be very proud of. Obviously, we have intensified those efforts. Last year we trained 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers through Operation Interflex. The Defence Secretary has announced that we will train 20,000 Ukrainian soldiers this year, in addition to the marines and air force pilots that I mentioned earlier.
Assessment & feedback
Did not directly commit to international effort beyond highlighting UK's role
Response accuracy
Q5 Partial Answer
Keir Starmer Lab
Holborn and St Pancras
Context
Starmer raises the need for accountability after the end of the conflict in Ukraine, referencing previous work on justice.
I think the whole House would like to thank those involved in the incredible training that is going on. Before I entered this House, I had responsibility for fighting for justice in The Hague for victims of Serbian aggression. Does the Prime Minister agree that when the war in Ukraine is over, Putin and all his cronies must stand at The Hague and face justice?
The right hon. and learned Gentleman is absolutely right that we must hold them to account for the horrific crimes that they have committed. I am proud that the United Kingdom has, again, played a leadership role in this regard, being one of the first countries to provide financial and technical support, putting investigators on the ground.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit directly to post-conflict justice measures beyond acknowledging UK's efforts
Response accuracy
Q6 Direct Answer
Keir Starmer Lab
Holborn and St Pancras
Context
The question is prompted by the need for Ukraine to rebuild after significant destruction caused by Russia. It references previous statements about the importance of NATO support.
Across this House we do not just hope for Ukraine's victory; we believe in it. Part of that victory must be Ukraine's reconstruction. Does the Prime Minister agree that Russia should pay for the destruction it has caused through the wealth lying dormant in blocked Russian Government assets?
We are the third largest humanitarian and economic donor to Ukraine, having provided £1.4 billion of support through direct grant assistance and guarantees at multilateral lending organisations. We have ensured that provision of funds will be put in a foundation for reconstruction in Ukraine, and we are currently working with international partners through legal process to use blocked Russian assets to fund Ukrainian reconstruction.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q7 Direct Answer
Keir Starmer Lab
Holborn and St Pancras
Context
The question is prompted by the need for strong NATO support in response to Russian aggression. It references historical context of UK's involvement in founding NATO.
As a country, we have always been at our best when we stand up to tyrannical aggressors threatening their neighbours and peace on our continent. Does the Prime Minister agree that whatever differences we may have and no matter what difficulties we face as a country, we in this House have a duty to support Ukraine's fight for freedom, liberty and victory?
We remain the leading European ally in NATO. We continue to increase funding in our armed forces by £24 billion at the last spending review, ensuring not only that we maintain our NATO obligation to spend 2% of our GDP on defence but also participating in every NATO operation and being the leading nation when it comes to contributions to NATO's rapid response force.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q8 Partial Answer
Context
The question is prompted by the importance of the UK's national security and aerospace industry, specifically in Lancashire.
The global combat air programme, including Team Tempest, is vital for UK national security. This aircraft will protect UK skies, give RAF the tools it needs for the future, deepen relationships with allies like Japan and Italy. Can I ask the Prime Minister to commit not only to design and development but also production in Lancashire?
I was delighted to announce this landmark international partnership with Japan and Italy. Team Tempest partners already employ 2,500 people in UK, more than 1,200 in the north-west, and we will continue to invest in skills and technology at BAE Systems factory of the future in Lancashire.
Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment on production location
Working With Partners
Response accuracy
Q9 Partial Answer
Stephen Flynn SNP
Aberdeen South
Context
The question is prompted by comments made by the former Prime Minister regarding her tenure and damage caused to the UK economy.
On behalf of my party, I send condolences for those impacted by earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. We are united in condemning Vladimir Putin and hoping for a better future for Ukraine. Does the Prime Minister regret his time in office?
I am grateful to all my predecessors for their contribution, and I know the whole House will be looking forward to hearing from President Zelensky.
Assessment & feedback
Regret about time in office
Grateful To Predecessors Forward-Looking Statement
Response accuracy
Q10 Partial Answer
Stephen Flynn SNP
Aberdeen South
Context
The question is prompted by comments made about the former Prime Minister causing significant economic damage to the UK.
Damage caused: £30 billion wiped off UK economy, pension funds on brink of collapse, pound reached parity with dollar, interest rates soared. Does the right hon. Gentleman apologise for her?
On my first day in office, I said mistakes were made. Now, right now, pound is at multi-month high, borrowing costs restored to where they should be, economy has stabilised and there is a clear plan to halve inflation and grow the economy.
Assessment & feedback
Specific apology
Mistakes Were Made Current Economic Stability
Response accuracy
Q11 Partial Answer
Context
The question is prompted by Burghley House's bid to host the world eventing championships in 2026, aiming for economic and global impact.
Burghley House in my constituency is bidding to host world eventing championships in 2026. This will provide a massive boost to local economy and coverage on global scene. Burghley has hosted two world championships and six European championships before. Does my right hon. Friend agree that Burghley would make a fantastic venue, and will he lend us his support so that we can be successful with our bid?
We are committed to building on our track record of hosting events such as Commonwealth games, women's Euros and rugby league World Cup. Relevant UK sporting authorities are looking at location, and I am sure they will consider Burghley in my right hon. Friend's constituency.
Assessment & feedback
Specific support for the bid
Relevant Authorities Considering
Response accuracy
Q12 Partial Answer
Edward Davey Lib Dem
Kingston and Surbiton
Context
The Prime Minister was asked to commit to proscribing the Wagner Group in light of its role in atrocities against Ukrainians.
When President Zelensky addressed this House last year, he asked that we treat Russia as a terrorist state. Since then, the Liberal Democrats have urged the Government to fulfil that request by proscribing the mercenary Wagner Group, which is doing Putin's bidding and carrying out atrocities against Ukrainians daily. On this symbolic day, will the Prime Minister finally commit to proscribing the Wagner Group, which would be a crucial part of treating Russia as the rogue state it is?
We have taken a lead from the beginning of this conflict in sanctioning and taking action against those entities connected with the war effort in Russia and beyond. The right hon. Gentleman will know that we have already sanctioned the Wagner Group in its entirety, as well as taking specific action against particular leaders. Proscriptions are not something on which we routinely comment in public, but rest assured that we continue to keep all our proscriptions under review.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to proscribing the Wagner Group directly
We Do Not Routinely Comment Publicly On Proscriptions
Response accuracy
Q13 Partial Answer
Context
The question relates to the impact of early HIV testing and the efforts to end new infections by 2030.
Twenty-two years ago this month, a good friend of mine died from AIDS. Had he been tested for HIV, I am confident that, with the medical advances we have made, he would still be alive today. As my right hon. Friend will know, this week is HIV Testing Week. I welcome the Government's ambition to end new infections by 2030. Will he thank the Terrence Higgins Trust for its incredible work? And will he look to extend opt-out HIV testing to more areas of high prevalence so that we can help to discover more undiagnosed cases?
I thank my hon. Friend for his incredibly thoughtful question, express my sympathies to him on the loss of his friend and join him in paying tribute to the work of the Terrence Higgins Trust, as I know the whole House will. The Terrence Higgins Trust does fantastic work and I look forward to talking to my hon. Friend about what more we can do to spread HIV testing and prevent more people from needlessly suffering.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to extending opt-out HIV testing
Look Forward To Discussing Further
Response accuracy
Q14 Partial Answer
Dave Doogan SNP
Angus and Perthshire Glens
Context
The question concerns the potential negative impacts of the electricity generator levy on renewable energy investments in Scotland.
The UK Government's fiscally illiterate electricity generator levy will choke off billions from future investments in the kind of renewable energy projects that my Angus constituency excels at delivering. This investment will find its way to more favourable jurisdictions, putting thousands of green jobs in Scotland and our energy transition at risk. Will the Prime Minister commit to scrapping this environmentally and economically damaging tax, or will he instead confirm that he and the latest Chancellor know the price of everything and the value of nothing?
I do not think it is right that, when energy companies are making windfall profits because of a war, those profits should go untaxed. This is what our levy does: it is right that we recover energy companies' excess profits that result from the war and give the money back to the country in the form of support for energy bills. What is economically damaging for Scotland is the SNP's refusal to acknowledge the need for a transition to support the North sea oil and gas industry, which we are proud to do.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to scrapping the electricity generator levy
Shifts Focus To Snp'S Position On North Sea
Response accuracy
Q15 Partial Answer
Context
The question is about the urgent need for an independent commissioner to tackle human trafficking in the UK.
Human trafficking is when people are moved legally from one place to another, often with the promise of a job, and are then forced into prostitution or labour exploitation. It has nothing to do with people who come illegally here on small boats. That is smuggling. A third of all human trafficking in the United Kingdom occurs wholly within its borders. When I was chairman of the all-party group against human trafficking, we campaigned for an independent commissioner. One was appointed in 2014, but since April last year we have not had one. That is unacceptable. Will the Prime Minister use his good offices to get one appointed urgently?
I thank my hon. Friend for all his work in this important area and I am happy to look into the particular position that he mentions. I know he is proud, as I am, of our modern slavery legislation, which is world leading, thanks to the former Prime Minister, my right hon. Friend the Member for Maidenhead (Mrs May). We are an example in how to tackle this, but I will make sure that we have someone in place to do the job.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to appointing a commissioner urgently
Happy To Look Into It
Response accuracy
Q16 Partial Answer
Wera Hobhouse Lib Dem
Bath
Context
The question is about the current social care staff vacancy crisis and a proposal to pay a higher minimum wage to attract more workers.
We now have more than 50% more social care staff vacancies than last year. People are stuck in hospital beds with nowhere to go. In my constituency, the Liberal Democrat council and our local hospital, the Royal United Hospital, are trying their level best and trying innovative solutions to tackle the social care backlog, but the Prime Minister knows that this is a workforce crisis. We must recruit and retain social care staff. So I ask him: will he support the Liberal Democrat proposal to pay a higher minimum wage to social care workers to tackle the social care shortages that underpin the NHS crisis?
We recently announced £14 billion more for health and social care. Part of that money will go to a new discharge fund to speed the discharge of people from hospital back into their homes and communities. That money is already making a difference on the ground. We can see the numbers of people unnecessarily in hospitals are already reducing, easing the burdens in our accident and emergency departments. That comes on top of the money we have invested to improve the training, recruitment and development of our valued social care staff, and that will make sure that we can reduce vacancy rates, increase retention and get the workforce that we know we need.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to paying a higher minimum wage
Announced £14 Billion For Health And Social Care
Response accuracy
Q17 Direct Answer
Karen Bradley Con
Staffordshire Moorlands
Context
The question is about the local event hosted to welcome Ukrainian refugees.
Last month, together with fellow north Staffordshire MPs, I hosted an event, a tea party, to welcome Ukrainian refugees living in north Staffordshire. Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking the sponsors, particularly Alton Towers, which hosted the event, the host families and all the people of north Staffordshire, who have made our Ukrainian friends so very welcome?
I join my right hon. Friend in thanking Alton Towers, the other sponsors and all the families involved in putting on that tea party. I know that many Members from across the House will have done something similar; it is a wonderful way to show our support for the families who have come here. Again, the President mentioned to me this morning how grateful he is to the United Kingdom that we have opened up our hearts and our homes to help those in his country who need our security and sanctuary.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q18 Partial Answer
Bell Ribeiro-Addy Lab
Clapham and Brixton Hill
Context
Big Brother Watch reported on government units recording political dissent under the guise of tackling misinformation. The Pitchford inquiry investigates state surveillance practices.
Big Brother Watch recently released a report highlighting how public money is being used by unaccountable government bodies to record political dissent on social media, despite these activities negatively impacting free speech and democracy. Can the Prime Minister provide details on the funding of these units and his stance on such expenditures?
I will have to get back to the hon. Lady on the Pitchford inquiry and give her an exact figure.
Assessment & feedback
Specific figures for spending on monitoring units, justification of such expenditures
Response accuracy
Q19 Partial Answer
Context
Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine has resulted in thousands of casualties, including over 1,000 injured or killed children. The question arises about showing support for the people of Ukraine.
With Russia's brutal war on Ukraine reaching its one-year mark and causing immense suffering to Ukrainians, could my right hon. Friend propose a national minute of silence on February 24th as a sign of solidarity with Ukrainian citizens?
I thank my right hon. Friend for her suggestion, and I am sure it is something we are considering as we speak.
Assessment & feedback
Confirmation of a national minute of silence on February 24th
Response accuracy
Q20 Partial Answer
Kerry McCarthy Lab
Bristol East
Context
The number of children experiencing mental health crises has been rising annually in the UK, influenced by various adverse experiences including poverty and war.
Considering that childhood trauma, whether stemming from domestic issues like poverty or international conflicts such as Ukraine's war, significantly impacts lifelong mental health, does the PM believe his government is doing enough to address these underlying causes?
We are focusing more on ensuring that extra funding allocated for mental health is particularly directed towards young people. We have announced additional resources for crisis centres and urgent treatment in 100 communities.
Assessment & feedback
Specific adequacy of current efforts to address root causes of childhood trauma
Response accuracy
Q21 Partial Answer
Context
The Westminster Foundation for Democracy has been supporting the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine over a decade, and there is discussion about hosting a UK-led conference to further assist Ukrainian development post-war.
Given our country's robust military and diplomatic support for Ukraine, my right hon. Friend, do you agree that as we prepare to host a reconstruction conference later this year, the Westminster Foundation for Democracy and other bodies can collaborate to support President Zelensky's vision for Ukraine's future?
My hon. Friend makes an excellent point, and I shall ensure his suggestion is considered to involve all relevant organisations when hosting the reconstruction conference.
Assessment & feedback
Specific agreement on involving multiple UK organizations in supporting Ukraine's post-war development
Response accuracy
Q22 Partial Answer
Richard Foord Lib Dem
Honiton and Sidmouth
Context
The Government's alternative fuel payment scheme, designed to assist those without gas grid access, has seen delays in Devon, leaving many residents waiting over five months for their support.
Given the Government's efforts to maintain public backing for our aid to Ukraine while also helping with domestic energy costs, especially for off-grid households requiring upfront funding for heating oil and other fuels, what will the Prime Minister say to people still awaiting their alternative fuel payment nearly half a year after its September announcement?
We designed our energy support schemes considering off-grid households and put in place a local household support fund for discretionary funding by councils.
Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline or measures to expedite alternative fuel payments
Response accuracy
Q23 Partial Answer
Kieran Mullan Con
Bexhill and Battle
Context
Despite the NHS workforce challenges, a new independently verified workforce plan has been introduced. The issue of hospital buildings also requires attention; specifically, rebuilding Leighton Hospital in south Cheshire is supported by local residents.
Given the NHS's ongoing pressures and record recruitment of healthcare staff, but still facing building issues, can the Prime Minister review proposals to rebuild Leighton Hospital, a project with substantial community backing?
Leighton Hospital has been allocated over £44 million to address immediate issues and I am sure the Department will hear my hon. Friend's constituents' voices regarding further investment.
Assessment & feedback
Concrete timeline or confirmation of Leighton Hospital reconstruction project approval
Response accuracy
Q24 Partial Answer
Liz Twist Lab
Blaydon and Consett
Context
The bus recovery grant will end soon, leading to predicted cuts of 15% to 20% in mileage. This could be devastating for people's daily lives in the constituency and elsewhere.
Bus services are vital but millions will face a crisis with the ending of the bus recovery grant, predicting cuts of 15% to 20%. Will the Prime Minister commit to extending this grant so communities are not isolated? Will he meet me to discuss?
We recognise the importance of buses, investing £3 billion over Parliament through the operators' grant for councils to subsidise routes and funding to cap operator fares at £2. We continue to see how we can support bus services in the long term.
Assessment & feedback
Commitment to extend the bus recovery grant
We Recognise The Importance Of Buses £3 Billion Investment Over Parliament
Response accuracy
Q25 Direct Answer
Context
National Apprenticeship Week highlights local colleges like South Essex College for offering apprenticeships as a path to work.
Does my right hon. Friend agree that apprenticeships such as those offered by the excellent South Essex College are a great pathway into work?
I completely agree, paying tribute to her local college, particularly in National Apprenticeship Week. We have an Education Secretary who was an apprentice herself, showing our pride in apprenticeships.
Assessment & feedback
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Q26 Direct Answer
Feryal Clark Lab
Enfield North
Context
A devastating earthquake hit Turkey and Syria, with the bitter cold affecting search and rescue efforts. Immediate humanitarian impact is severe.
Joining condolences to victims of the earthquake, thanks the Foreign Secretary for the UK's response but asks when further aid will be committed. Asks about discussions with international counterparts to ensure our response meets crisis scale.
Joined in paying tribute to the Foreign Secretary for his work, spoke to President Erdoğan on reiterating support. Search and rescue teams are deployed. The Foreign Secretary speaks with UN counterparts for targeted humanitarian support including funding White Helmets in Syria.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy