Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Topical Questions

Wednesday 8 January 2025 · 3 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Zoe Franklin asked the Secretary of State about government plans to ensure internet access for all during the switchover to Internet Protocol Television, highlighting the Lords Communications and Digital Committee's findings on households lacking internet access.
  • Baggy Shanker inquired about Rolls-Royce's role in small modular reactors, suggesting it showcases British innovation and could attract technology investments. The Secretary of State agreed, emphasizing the importance of SMRs in moving towards net zero emissions.
  • Blake Stephenson questioned the Government's support for British companies pursuing hydrogen-powered flight, like Cranfield Aerospace Solutions, and how the industrial strategy will maintain UK leadership in sustainable aviation technology. The Secretary of State noted increased R&D spending to support such initiatives.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Zöe Franklin Lib Dem Guildford
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

In 2023, the Lords Communications and Digital Committee found that 1.7 million households in Britain were without internet connectivity.

Question

In light of the findings from the Lords Communications and Digital Committee regarding 1.7 million households lacking internet access, will the Secretary of State outline how the Government are working to ensure no one is left behind by the impending switchover to Internet Protocol Television?

Answer from The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)

Broadcast TV is legally protected until 2034. The Government are committed to ensuring audiences can access television in a manner that suits them. Too many people are excluded from digital activity due to lack of basic skills; thus, I will be launching the digital inclusion plan in the near future. I hope to meet with the hon. Member to brief her on this work and incorporate her ideas as we develop it.

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Q2 Baggy Shanker Labour (Co-op) Derby South
Climate Science & Technology Energy
Context

Globally, investments are being made in new technologies for data centres. In Derby, Rolls-Royce is a leader in the development of Small Modular Reactors.

Question

In light of global investments in innovative technologies powering data centers, does the Secretary of State agree that Rolls-Royce's leadership in small modular reactors showcases British innovation at its best and would be an attractive partner for technology companies looking to invest in future developments?

Answer from The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)

I agree with the hon. Gentleman. Technological innovation is key to moving towards net zero emissions. The UK will be at the forefront in this regard. SMRs are particularly exciting. I have met Rolls-Royce, which has a strong advocate in my hon. Friend.

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Q3 Blake Stephenson Con Mid Bedfordshire
Climate Energy Business & Trade
Context

Pioneering British companies like Cranfield Aerospace Solutions in Mid Bedfordshire are exploring hydrogen-powered flight.

Question

What steps is the Government taking to support pioneering British companies, such as Cranfield Aerospace Solutions in Mid Bedfordshire, in their pursuit of hydrogen-powered flight? How will the industrial strategy ensure that the UK remains a global leader in sustainable aviation technology?

Answer from The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)

We have increased R&D spending to the highest level in this country. This will directly impact issues such as hydrogen-powered flight and support British companies like Cranfield Aerospace Solutions.

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