On Tuesday 29 October 2024, the Great British Energy Bill had its third reading. The Bill will enable the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero to create a company called Great British Energy and make it a legal entity. GB Energy will operate independently but will be fully owned by the Government. Its main focus will be to support, promote, and get involved in producing, distributing, storing, and supplying clean energy. The Bill will allow the Department to work to cut down greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, improve energy efficiency, and ensure the UK's energy security.

Three amendments were tabled at third reading and I voted against them:   

amendment 4: Ayes 96 Noes 353; Amendment 6: Ayes 124 Noes 361; Amendment 8: Ayes 115 Noes 361

The Bill passed its Third Reading and will now progress to the House of Lords.

 

On 29 October 2024 I chaired the debate held in Westminster Hall from 2.30-3.30pm. The motion, moved by Bambos Charalambous MP was 'That this House has considered imprisonment for public protection sentences', and was responded to by the minister, Sir Nic Dakin.

 

This is my statement on the death of Rhiannon Whyte at Bescot Stadium Station:

“I am shocked and saddened at the death of Rhiannon and heartbroken for her family and friends.  Rhiannon was a young woman committed to helping others and her loss will be deeply felt.

I want to thank the Walsall police and transport police services for their swift response. Legal proceedings must be allowed to progress unhindered against the individual charged with this crime.

May Rhiannon rest in peace.”

 

On 22 October 2024 I chaired the first meeting of the Cross-Party Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood, with the topic being 'The Children's Wellbeing Bill'.

We heard from  Dr Kristy Howells from Cantebury Christ Church University, Professor Kamaldeep Bhui from the University of Oxford, and Professor Paul Gately from UCEN Manchester and MoreLifeUK.

There are many poor health and wellbeing indicators for children and young people across the country, and I hope these discussions lead to the changes we need. The meeting agreed to write to the Secretaries of State of Health and Education.

On Tuesday 22 October 2024 I chaired the Westminster Hall debates on "Support for pubs and the hospitality sector", introduced by Mr Peter Bedford MP.  The Minister Gareth Thomas Business and Trade responded on behalf of the Government. 

The second debate was on "the Development of renewable energy in Cornwall" and was  introduced by Jayne Kirkham MP. Ms Kerry Macarthy, Minister at the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero responded on behalf of the Government.