Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Supply Chain Issues

Tuesday 2 November 2021 · 4 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 4 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Current stresses on supply chains are due to global factors.
  • The Government is taking action to support UK supply chains, including measures to increase lorry drivers.
  • Steps are being taken to support the haulage sector, including funding and visa provisions for HGV drivers.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Nick Smith Lab Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney
Economy Business & Trade
Context

Global supply chains are facing significant challenges due to economic recovery around the world.

Question

What recent fiscal steps have been taken to help resolve supply chain issues?

Answer from Helen Whately

Current stresses on supply chains are a consequence of global factors. Where it makes sense, we are taking action to support UK supply chains, such as increasing the supply of lorry drivers to help the haulage sector meet demand for deliveries.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific fiscal steps or measures taken to resolve supply chain issues

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Q2 Nick Smith Lab Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney
NHS Taxation
Context

The National Audit Office reported that huge contracts with Greensill Capital provided no benefits to the NHS.

Question

Does the Minister accept the NAO report, and will she ensure proper contract awarding in the future?

Answer from Helen Whately

I am sure that the Government will be responding to the NAO report in due course. The Treasury works very hard with the Department of Health and Social Care to ensure funding for the NHS goes to good use and improves care for patients.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not directly address the NAO report or future contract awarding measures

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Q3 Bridget Phillipson Lab Houghton and Sunderland South
Economy Energy
Context

The Office for Budget Responsibility warned that the Government's supply chain chaos will weigh on economic recovery beyond current forecasts.

Question

Can the Minister help businesses and families prepare by explaining how much this chaos will cost the country this year?

Answer from Helen Whately

I do not agree with the picture painted. We are providing support where it is appropriate, including £500 million extra help to households during this winter due to energy price rises and increased evidence of supply bottlenecks.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide a specific cost estimate for supply chain chaos impact this year

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Q4 Bridget Phillipson Lab Houghton and Sunderland South
Employment Transport
Context

The logistics industry warns that the shortage of heavy goods vehicle drivers is causing delays, potentially impacting Christmas deliveries.

Question

Can the Minister guarantee no presents will be missing from under the tree this Christmas because of her Government's failure to plan ahead?

Answer from Helen Whately

We are taking steps to support the haulage sector, including 5,000 temporary visas for HGV drivers, increased test capacity, changes in cabotage restrictions, and funding improved facilities for drivers. In the longer term, we need better pay and conditions for lorry drivers.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide a specific guarantee against logistics failures during Christmas

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