Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Topical Questions

Tuesday 18 November 2025 · 21 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 17 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Minister paid tribute to former coalminers and confirmed the government's commitment to benefit scheme members.
  • Claire Coutinho questioned the government's lack of funding for the forest fund at COP, accusing them of lecturing on climate while not contributing.
  • Richard Quigley highlighted grid issues on the Isle of Wight and the need for more transmission infrastructure nationwide.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Rachel Taylor Lab North Warwickshire and Bedworth
Benefits & Welfare
Context

Members of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme are seeking justice similar to that received by former mineworkers under the mineworkers' pension scheme. Constituents like Ray Sweet, Don Jennings and Andy Callow have benefited from previous government actions but now seek additional support.

Question

Last year, over 1,000 former mineworkers in North Warwickshire and Bedworth benefited from this Government’s historic decision to release the surplus from the mineworkers’ pension scheme. Now, members of the British Coal staff superannuation scheme, such as my constituents Ray Sweet, Don Jennings and Andy Callow, are seeking that same justice. Could the Minister reassure my constituent and others like her that the Government are doing everything they can?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

I pay tribute to all those who toiled in our coalmines for a very long time—we owe them a great debt. As the Prime Minister said in the House on 12 November, the Government remain committed to agreeing a way forward with the trustees that will benefit scheme members. We will make an announcement on this issue in due course.

Partly answered
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Q2 Claire Coutinho Con East Surrey
Climate
Context

During the COP, forests in Brazil were deforested despite the Secretary of State lecturing about saving the planet. The UK did not put any money into the forest fund.

Question

At this COP, acres of the Amazon were chopped down so that the Secretary of State can lecture us about saving the planet. Can the Minister justify why his Government did not even put a single penny into the forest fund, which could have at least repaired some of the damage?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

I think the shadow Secretary of State has a bit of a cheek talking about anyone’s action on the climate crisis when she has completely reversed her own position on it. The UK’s climate leadership is an incredibly important contribution to the world’s action on the climate crisis. That crisis is not a future threat, but a very present reality. The UK has been a part of the forest initiative; we have supported Brazil and others to make that happen. Of course, coming up to a Budget and with tight fiscal considerations, we want to make sure that every pound of British taxpayers’ money is spent.

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Q3 Richard Quigley Lab Isle of Wight West
Transport Energy
Context

The Isle of Wight is facing issues with exporting its green energy due to capacity constraints in subsea cables.

Question

As Members all know by now, the Isle of Wight is a great place to live, work and learn, but it is not just getting ourselves across the Solent that is a problem, but exporting our green energy under it. Of the three subsea cables connecting us to the grid, two are at capacity and the third is dedicated to a power station that only runs for a few hours a month. I am grateful to Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks for its engagement so far, but will the Minister meet me, SSEN and the Isle of Wight council so that we can find a way to export our energy and unlock the Isle of Wight’s green future?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

This is partly why the upgrade of our grid is so important. My hon. Friend references the particular example of the Isle of Wight, but right across the country we need to build much more transmission infrastructure so that we can get power to communities and businesses that need it most and bring down bills by getting clean power to people. I am happy to speak to him further about the specific case, and I know he is already engaging with the distribution network operator responsible for this case to make things happen.

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Q4 Lee Dillon Lib Dem Newbury
Economy Energy
Context

More than 3,600 families in Newbury are living in fuel poverty. The warm home discount helps with bills but the constituency needs the full warm homes plan.

Question

More than 3,600 families in my constituency are living in fuel poverty. While I welcome the warm home discount that will help with bills, it is really the warm homes plan that we need to see rolled out. Can the Minister give any assurance to my constituents about when they will be able to see that investment?

Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Martin McCluskey)

The warm homes plan will be funded to £13.2 billion, and we will announce it before the end of the year.

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Q5 Chi Onwurah Lab Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Climate Energy
Context

The north-east is a hub for clean energy supply chains but years of under-investment by the Tories have left many North sea ports unable to host modern turbine manufacturing.

Question

The north-east is a vital hub for clean energy supply chains, and my constituents in oil and gas want to be part of that transition, but years of under-investment by the Tories mean that many North sea ports cannot host modern turbine manufacturing. As the Government prepare their plan for the future of the north-east, will the Minister consider infrastructure investment to enable communities and workers in the north-east to better benefit from clean energy jobs?

Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Chris McDonald)

I recognise what my hon. Friend says about the importance of port infrastructure in the north-east. We made a manifesto commitment to support investment in our ports through the National Wealth Fund, and I would be happy to discuss with her how the north-east in particular could benefit from that.

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Q6 Alex Brewer Lib Dem North East Hampshire
Energy Business & Trade
Context

Small energy-intensive businesses like hair salons in North East Hampshire are struggling due to high energy prices.

Question

In North East Hampshire, small energy-intensive businesses such as hair salons are struggling, because they cannot reduce their consumption. What plans does the Minister have to support those kinds of small businesses?

Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Chris McDonald)

In response to earlier questions, I outlined the British industrial competitiveness scheme, which we announced in our industrial strategy. That will extend support to a wider range of businesses. We recognise the issues that businesses are facing with high energy prices, primarily as a consequence of the previous Government’s policies not to invest in renewable energy. We are changing that by investing in British home-grown renewable energy.

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Q7 Robbie Moore Con Keighley and Ilkley
Climate Environment
Context

Peatlands are a critical carbon store, storing more carbon than UK forests. Robbie Moore is concerned about the impact of green energy projects on these important habitats.

Question

Our peatlands are a vital store of carbon, storing 26 times more carbon than UK forests. Would you agree that green energy projects built on peatland must prove they mitigate more carbon than they release through construction and disturbance? Will you commit to refusing any nationally significant infrastructure project failing this test?

Answer from Martin McCluskey

While I cannot comment on specific planning decisions, the planning regime considers the importance of peat for biodiversity, water and carbon storage in decisions about renewable infrastructure. Existing protections for peatland habitats and deep peat are included in the national planning policy framework.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Commitment to refuse any project failing the test

How: Cannot Comment On Specific Planning Decisions

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Q8 Chris Vince Labour (Co-op) Harlow
Education Climate
Context

A primary school in Chris Vince's constituency is installing solar panels on its roof, which will reduce energy bills and provide educational opportunities.

Question

I welcome the investment in Roydon Primary School for solar panels. Can you talk about how this will bring down bills and what educational impact it might have?

Answer from Michael Shanks

The school will start to receive money off its bills immediately, which can be reinvested into teaching facilities. Children had lessons on clean energy and learned about sustainability's impact on their school and the planet, offering an important curriculum benefit.

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Q9 Sarah Dyke Lib Dem Glastonbury and Somerton
Climate Energy
Context

A constituent, Gareth from Pitney, lives in an off-grid home with no affordable heating options other than oil. Transitioning to sustainable heating alternatives would cost him about £20,000.

Question

What steps are you taking to support off-grid homeowners like Gareth to transition to sustainable heating alternatives? What assessment has been made of using renewable liquid heating fuels?

Answer from Martin McCluskey

The warm homes plan, launching before the end of the year, will address issues in rural homes. A consultation on alternative heating fuels was also launched today, inviting responses from constituents and others interested.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific steps for off-grid homeowners

How: Warm Homes Plan, Consultation

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Q10 Bob Blackman Con Harrow East
Economy Energy
Context

Development of data centres, industries and housing in west London is hampered by inadequate national grid capacity.

Question

What action will you take to ensure that west London can contribute to the growing UK economy despite current grid limitations?

Answer from Michael Shanks

We are upgrading the national transmission system and investing in it. It is crucial for future power sources and ensuring we can deliver power to demand centres where there are economic growth opportunities.

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Q11 Linsey Farnsworth Lab Amber Valley
Climate Local Government
Context

Reform-led Derbyshire county council has abolished its climate change committee and scrapped its aim to tackle the causes and impact of climate change.

Question

Will you outline steps your Department is taking to ensure local authorities continue addressing climate change effectively and meeting national targets?

Answer from Michael Shanks

Reform-led councils dismissing actions necessary for protecting communities from impacts of climate change is concerning. It’s important that we stay committed and do everything possible to protect communities against devastating floods and other climate impacts.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific steps by the Department

How: Reform-Led Councils Dismissing Actions

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Q12 Melanie Ward Lab Cowdenbeath and Kirkcaldy
Employment Business & Trade
Context

ExxonMobil announced plans to close its Fife ethylene plant, affecting many workers who have decades of service. Constituents are concerned about lack of clarity on redundancy packages and support.

Question

Today’s news that ExxonMobil is to close the Fife ethylene plant in Mossmoran is a devastating blow to my constituents. Workers with decades of service will lose their jobs but have no idea of the redundancy package they will receive. Despite months of attempts to engage, ExxonMobil has not been forthcoming about its intentions or what the Government can do to save the plant and jobs. Will the Government do all it can to support a future for the plant and workers?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

This is a hugely concerning time for the workers, their families, and the wider community. The Government has been in regular contact with ExxonMobil. My hon. Friend met with the Business Secretary recently and has engaged as much as possible. While issues are deeply concerning, we stand ready to provide support. The Business Secretary will speak to her and others to ensure a robust response for the workforce at this difficult time.

Partly answered

How: Did Not Directly Address Call For Information Sharing

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Q13 Ellie Chowns Green North Herefordshire
Climate
Context

Reports suggest the UK's decision not to contribute to the tropical forest forever facility is under review. The COP30 conference focuses on ending deforestation.

Question

With just a few days of COP30 left, it is disappointing that UK climate leadership is at risk due to the Government’s decision not to contribute to the tropical forest forever facility. Are reports that this decision is under review accurate? Will the UK play its part in contributing directly to ending deforestation?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

We are taking a leading role at COP and fighting for Britain’s interests. We will continue making tackling climate change a priority of this Government. However, the specific decision regarding the tropical forest forever facility was not addressed.

Partly answered

Not addressed: decision on funding tropical forest forever facility

How: Highlighted General Commitment To Cop And Climate Action

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Q14 Liz Twist Lab Blaydon and Consett
Energy
Context

National Energy Action polling shows four in ten adults using prepayment meters have found themselves without credit, facing financial distress due to standing charges.

Question

Polling by National Energy Action reveals that many families are unable to maintain energy access due to prepayment meter issues and accruing debt. Does the Minister agree that Ofgem must explore practical reforms to ensure households are not penalised?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

My hon. Friend is correct about energy bills placing a burden on constituents. Ofgem has announced proposals requiring suppliers to offer tariffs with lower standing charges from early 2026, but further work needs to be done.

Partly answered

How: Acknowledged Issues But Highlighted Existing Efforts By Ofgem

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Q15 Alicia Kearns Con Rutland and Stamford
Energy Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

2,000 acres of farmland have been approved for solar by the Government, creating a significant project. The constituency seeks a land use strategy to ensure community benefits.

Question

Last year, 2,000 acres of farmland were approved for solar projects. With another 2,000 being eyed up next door, when will the Government bring forth a land use strategy and impose minimum compensation for those losing their countryside?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

We appreciate engagement with the hon. Lady on these issues. The planning system considers cumulative impacts, but a more strategic approach is needed through the land use framework and the strategic spatial energy plan.

Partly answered

How: Acknowledged Need For Strategy But Did Not Commit To Timeline

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Q16 Euan Stainbank Lab Falkirk
Economy Energy Business & Trade
Context

The Energy Minister previously stated that £200 million investment from the national wealth fund brought private investment to Grangemouth. The constituency seeks an anchor industry similar to former oil refineries.

Question

Last month, it was announced that a £200 million investment in Grangemouth has secured private investment through the national wealth fund. Does the Minister agree we need an anchor industry with scale and skills like those of the former oil refinery? When will the Government take a partial stake and make an announcement on Grangemouth’s industrial future?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

I pay tribute to my hon. Friend's work with the Government and national wealth fund, securing £200 million investment through 100 projects. Due diligence is ongoing before we can make any announcements.

Partly answered

How: Acknowledged Progress But Deferred Commitment

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Q17 Graham Leadbitter SNP Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey
Climate Energy
Context

ExxonMobil's closure at Mossmorran raises concerns about the impact on the Acorn carbon capture, utilisation and storage project.

Question

What is the Minister’s assessment of the potential impact on the Acorn carbon capture, utilisation and storage project in light of ExxonMobil’s closure at Mossmorran?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

We are processing this news and have had conversations to ensure that the wider energy infrastructure does not pose risks. I meet the Acorn company regularly, and we will continue supporting the project.

Partly answered

How: Acknowledged Concerns But Provided Limited Details

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Q18 Lillian Jones Lab Kilmarnock and Loudoun
Climate Energy Business & Trade
Context

XLCC plans to build the UK’s first high-voltage direct current subsea cable manufacturing factory at Hunterston, with headquarters in Lillian Jones' constituency. The project is seen as a major opportunity for Ayrshire.

Question

XLCC’s project to build the UK’s first high-voltage direct current subsea cable manufacturing factory at Hunterston represents a major opportunity for Ayrshire. It is exactly the kind of investment in renewable energy that we need to drive growth, create jobs and strengthen our energy security. What steps is the Minister taking to support firms such as XLCC to delivery these projects?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

One reason why we are so keen for the supply chain for the upgrade of our grid to be in the UK is our wish to ensure that there are opportunities for factories in constituencies such as my hon. Friend’s, and I recently met her, along with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and XLCC, to discuss those opportunities. XLCC is currently changing its business model but remains committed to being part of the supply chain for cables in the future, and we will continue to do everything we can to support it.

Partly answered
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Q19 Bradley Thomas Con Bromsgrove
Energy
Context

The oil refining industry employs tens of thousands of people and is crucial to energy security. The industry is under pressure.

Question

The oil refining industry employs tens of thousands of people and is crucial to our energy security. It is also a key part of the ministerial brief. The sector is under immense pressure, so can the Minister tell the House when he will meet industry representatives directly?

Answer from The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)

I have met industry representatives, and when I did so they told me that it was the first time they had met anyone from the Government in 13 years. Many of the issues that are now emerging have been long in the making because of the last Government’s failure to recognise their importance. However, the hon. Gentleman is right to say that refineries are an important part of our energy mix and our economy. We will do all that we can to support them, and I continue to meet their representatives and those of Fuels Industry UK regularly.

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Q20 Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
Climate Northern Ireland
Context

Northern Ireland seeks dedicated funding from UK-wide schemes such as the Nature for Climate Fund to support peatland restoration.

Question

Will Northern Ireland receive a dedicated share of UK-wide peatland funding schemes such as those covered by the Nature for Climate Fund?

Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Martin McCluskey)

I shall be more than happy to meet the hon. Member, as I am sure will the Minister for Climate, my hon. Friend the Member for Leeds North West (Katie White), when she returns from COP30.

Not addressed: The specific funding allocation was not addressed

How: Will Meet To Discuss

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Q21 Andrew Bowie Con
Energy
Context

A serious news event at the Mossmorran plant has occurred, affecting workers and the wider community. The request is to bring forward a statement on the situation.

Question

Given the very serious news coming out of the Mossmorran plant this morning, might you inform me how it might be possible for the Government to bring forward a statement on the situation today?

Answer from Mr Speaker

A lot of Members obviously have a keen interest in this matter, as it affects their constituencies. I am sure that those on the Treasury Bench have heard the request. I am more than happy to support that request if the Government bring it forward.

Not addressed: Details of bringing forward statement not provided

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