It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Ms Nokes. I congratulate the hon. Member for Cambridge on securing a debate on an issue that matters deeply to many communities across this country. The future prospects of small cities and our support for them are real and tangible concerns. While acknowledging the impact of the pandemic, the Government has committed billions in covid loans, furlough support, and funds to local authorities. With the virus hopefully in the rear-view mirror, the focus shifts towards addressing pre-existing issues such as job opportunities, good quality jobs, and life prospects diminished by areas being overlooked. The levelling-up White Paper launched in February outlines measures designed to close health, education, and wealth gaps between regions, including investments in education, transport, housing, research and development. A key component is the regeneration of towns through funds like the £3.6 billion Towns Fund and the £2.4 billion Town Deals for 101 towns across England. The Minister emphasises the importance of local decision-making and devolution to ensure maximum potential for local communities, highlighting specific projects in Peterborough, a new university opening later this year, and the upcoming round of the £4.8 billion levelling-up fund encouraging smaller cities to secure investment. The Government's commitment includes regeneration, devolution, and collaboration with local government and institutions to protect people from deadly viruses and deliver on issues that matter.