Paul Davies MP: speeches

Speeches

• 24 Feb 2025 · Ukraine · Hansard source

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  Online propaganda from the Kremlin has become a disturbing reality. Social media, especially platforms such as Facebook and X, have been flooded with the claim that Ukraine is solely responsible for the war—it is extraordinary. What measures are being taken to combat the propaganda being spread by Governments to blame the Ukrainian people for the conflict?

• 13 Feb 2025 · Business of the House · Hansard source

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  Yesterday, I hosted “Taste of Colne Valley”, at which we celebrated the rich diversity of local businesses, featuring J Brindon Addy butchers, Zapato Brewing, Longley Farm and Dark Woods Coffee. People were able to come along and sample home-made sausage rolls, yoghurt, IPAs and coffee. That event emphasised how important it is to support locally run businesses in our communities, something I have long advocated. Can we have a debate in Government time to discuss the significance of supporting local businesses?

• 13 Feb 2025 · HIV Testing Week · Hansard source

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  It is a pleasure to serve with you in the Chair, Dr Allin-Khan. I will certainly try to keep to three and a half minutes. As we mark National HIV Testing Week, we unite to promote regular HIV testing, particularly among those most affected. Despite significant progress, we are advised by the Terrence Higgins Trust, the National AIDS Trust and the Elton John AIDS Foundation that, as has already been said, we are not on track to meet the goal of ending new transmissions of HIV by 2030. The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency shows a plateau in the decline of transmissions among gay and bisexual men, and a rise in new transmissions outside of London. To reverse the trend, we must scale up HIV testing and find the estimated 4,700 people living with undiagnosed HIV in England. The Brunswick Centre in my area plays a pivotal role in this effort. Its work in providing support, education and testing services is of huge value. It offers a safe space for individuals to get tested and receive the care they need. By partnering with local communities, the Brunswick Centre ensures that everyone has access to lifesaving information and services. I join the HIV community in calling on the Government to invest in year-round online HIV and STI postal testing services, and to continue opt-out HIV testing in emergency departments. We must also address the stigma that prevents many from seeking care. Everyone living with HIV deserves to feel safe and supported in every healthcare setting. On the issue of stigma, I commend my senior parliamentary officer and the secretariat for the APPG on HIV, AIDS and sexual health for their outstanding work in combating stigma and educating us on the actions we must take to address this crucial issue. Together with the dedication of organisations like the Brunswick Centre, the Terrence Higgins Trust and others, we can achieve the goal of ending new HIV cases by 2030 and be the first in the world to do so. Let us make HIV testing a routine part of healthcare and ensure that no one is left behind.

• 4 Feb 2025 · National Cancer Plan · Hansard source

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  I thank the Minister for his statement. Since my election, I have met a wide range of cancer charities, especially those representing rare and less common cancers. As the Minister knows, 55% of UK cancer deaths are a result of those types of cancers, such as blood, ovarian and kidney cancers. Will he ensure that rare and less common cancers are not forgotten in the national cancer plan?

• 30 Jan 2025 · Business of the House · Hansard source

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  I am delighted about the recent announcement at the creative industries growth summit of new funding for West Yorkshire. This funding will enable local leaders to address the specific needs of local creative businesses, which is a priority for Mayor Brabin, and it will benefit towns such as Holmfirth, home to the Picturedrome. Could we have a debate in Government time on what further support can be given to local creative and entertainment venues?

• 28 Jan 2025 · Support for Female Offenders · Hansard source

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  There are more than 3,000 women prisoners in England and Wales—a number that the Ministry of Justice projects will rise to 4,200 by November 2027. Like many, I welcome the newly established Women’s Justice Board, which will oversee efforts to tackle this issue and ensure a tailored approach to female offenders. What measures are being implemented to provide support through community sentences and residential women’s centres?

• 28 Jan 2025 · Support for Female Offenders · Hansard source

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  13. What steps her Department is taking to support female offenders.

• 27 Jan 2025 · Reading in Schools · Hansard source

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  3. What steps her Department is taking to encourage reading in schools.

• 27 Jan 2025 · Reading in Schools · Hansard source

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  According to the Libraries for Primaries campaign, one in seven state primary schools in the UK lacks a dedicated library or reading space, and that figure rises to one in four in the most disadvantaged communities. As we know, reading for pleasure is essential to a child’s academic success and mental wellbeing. Thousands of primary schools still need libraries. Does the Minister agree that libraries are vital for child development, and what further steps can the Government take to ensure that every primary school has a library?

• 22 Jan 2025 · Engagements · Hansard source

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  Q10. In 2016, I was diagnosed with colon cancer and had excellent treatment at Huddersfield royal infirmary. I was one of the lucky ones, because after 2015 the Tory Government failed in the fight against cancer, with over 380,000 patients in England not treated on time. What assurance can the Prime Minister offer Colne Valley residents that the reforms and extra investment he has announced will address that issue?

• 16 Jan 2025 · Grassroots Sports · Hansard source

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  I recently met the Football Foundation, which is dedicated to transforming grassroots football in England by funding and developing community facilities. Its work includes building and refurbishing pitches, clubhouses and changing rooms, ensuring that everybody has access to quality football environments. By investing in grassroots football, it aims to improve participation, improve health and strengthen communities. What assessment has the Department made of the impact of biodiversity net gain requirements on investment in community sports facilities?

• 16 Jan 2025 · Grassroots Sports · Hansard source

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  8. What steps her Department is taking to support grassroots sport.

• 15 Jan 2025 · Non-Domestic Rating (Multipliers and Private Schools) Bill · Hansard source

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  I am pleased to speak in favour of the Bill, which is a significant piece of legislation that aims to reform the non-domestic rating system in England. I welcome the Bill’s primary objective of creating a fairer and more balanced approach to non-domestic rating. By increasing the multipliers for large businesses, we will ensure that those entities contribute their fair share to the local economy. That change is particularly important as it addresses the disparity between large corporations and smaller businesses, which often struggle to compete under the current system. The introduction of lower multipliers for retail, hospitality and leisure properties is a much needed relief for those sectors, which have faced significant challenges, especially in the wake of the covid-19 pandemic. By reducing the tax burden, the Bill aims to support recovery and growth, ultimately benefiting local communities and economies such as the hospitality and retail sector in my constituency. One of the most notable aspects of the Bill is the removal of charitable relief for private schools. Although private schools play a role in our education system, it is essential to recognise that they operate as businesses and should be taxed accordingly. This change will generate additional revenue that can be invested in public services, including state schools. The Bill represents a step towards a more equitable and balanced tax system. It addresses the needs of various sectors, supports local economies and ensures that all entities contribute fairly to the public good.

• 6 Jan 2025 · Topical Questions · Hansard source

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  T5. For 14 years, many military families have endured substandard housing with issues like damp and mould. They deserve better. Does the Minister agree that quality service housing is essential in recognising the commitment of our military personnel, and that bringing military homes back into public ownership marks the beginning of repairing our nation’s contract with them?

• 12 Dec 2024 · Business of the House · Hansard source

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  Rural communities often feel neglected when it comes to crime. House of Commons Library research shows a 32% rise in rural crime since 2011, compared with 24% in urban areas. That includes 130,000 more reported offences, and 30,000 additional cases of criminal damage and arson. Those figures highlight— [ Interruption. ] I will come to the question, Mr Speaker.

• 12 Dec 2024 · Business of the House · Hansard source

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  May I ask the Leader of the House for a debate on rural crime in Government time?

• 10 Dec 2024 · Prisoner Rehabilitation · Hansard source

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  The UK faces a major labour shortage that is costing billions of pounds annually. Lacking prospects, many ex-prisoners return to a life of crime. Enhancing prisoner literacy and numeracy and providing vocational training can help equip them with skills for employment, leading to a reduction in reoffending rates. I welcome the “Get Britain Working” White Paper, which will address the issue. Does the Minister agree that failing to tackle the issue will not only cause a lifelong challenge for individuals, but create a significant problem for the state, including lost opportunities and increased crime?

• 10 Dec 2024 · Prisoner Rehabilitation · Hansard source

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  4. What steps she is taking to equip prisoners with the skills they need to support their rehabilitation.

• 28 Nov 2024 · Business of the House · Hansard source

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  Visiting Hepworth junior and infant school, and Salendine Nook high school, during Parliament Week was inspiring. The students’ enthusiasm for learning about democracy was evident in their thoughtful questions and active participation. It is clear that early engagement is crucial for fostering informed future citizens. Can we have a debate in Government time about children’s involvement in the democratic process?

• 14 Nov 2024 · Business of the House · Hansard source

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  I recently had the privilege of visiting the Holme Valley mountain rescue team, which will be celebrating its 60th anniversary next year. Its mission, “We are here for everyone”, underscores its extensive contributions, from rescuing individuals on the moors, to tackling moor fires and aiding the police in rural searches. With 60 dedicated volunteers and 53 call-outs so far this year, will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating the mountain rescue team for its hard and dedicated work? Additionally, can we have a debate in Government time on the importance of mountain rescue teams in this country?

• 11 Nov 2024 · Topical Questions · Hansard source

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  T5. The work of unpaid carers is of huge value and is often heroic. A recent report by Carers UK revealed that 42% of those receiving carer’s allowance are struggling financially. I was therefore really pleased by the significant increase in carer’s allowance announced in the Budget. It is the largest increase in decades and will benefit many in my constituency. Does the Minister agree that this change will help mitigate the financial challenges that carers have faced for the past 14 years?

• 5 Nov 2024 · Income Tax (Charge) · Hansard source

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  The Chancellor’s announcement of a £22.6 billion increase in the day-to-day health budget, and a £3.1 billion rise in the capital budget over this year and next, marks a pivotal moment for our national health service. That substantial investment underscores our Government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare services and ensuring the wellbeing of every citizen. One of the most pressing issues we face is the backlog of elective surgeries and appointments, and with waiting lists currently at 7.6 million, that additional funding will enable us to deliver 40,000 extra operations and acute sector appointments each week. But this is not just about numbers; this is about reducing the anxiety and suffering of millions who have been waiting for essential medical procedures. They were badly let down by the last Government, but by addressing those delays we are taking a significant step towards restoring public confidence in our healthcare system. The Budget also allocates £1.5 billion for new surgical hubs, scanners and additional beds, which is crucial to expand treatment capacity, particularly in emergency departments. As a survivor of cancer, I am pleased that cancer treatment—a critical area of concern—will see significant improvements. The allocation of £70 million for new radiotherapy machines will enhance our ability to treat cancer much more effectively. That funding is testament to our commitment to fighting that devastating disease, and supporting those affected by it. Mental health, which is often overlooked, receives a much-needed £26 million boost, dedicated to opening new mental health crisis centres. Those centres will provide critical support to individuals who are experiencing mental health issues, ensuring that they receive the care and attention that they need promptly. The Budget also includes a dedicated fund to upgrade around 200 GP surgeries. By strengthening primary care we can prevent minor health issues from escalating into major problems, ultimately reducing the burden on our hospitals. Finally, the Budget represents a comprehensive, forward-thinking approach to healthcare. It addresses immediate needs, while laying the foundation for a more resilient and efficient health system. Labour Members campaigned loud and clear at the general election for change, and that is what the Budget has delivered.

• 5 Nov 2024 · Supporting Young Offenders · Hansard source

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  6. What steps her Department is taking to support young offenders.

• 5 Nov 2024 · Supporting Young Offenders · Hansard source

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  Over the past decade, the quality and quantity of education in young offenders institutions has declined, as reported by Sir Martin Oliver, His Majesty’s chief inspector of education, children’s services and skills, and Charlie Taylor, His Majesty’s chief inspector of prisons. These institutions are facing difficulties in managing challenging behaviours, leading to an increase in children being put into isolation. Children in these institutions deserve a high-quality education that helps them to turn their lives around. The current system is failing them badly. Will the Minister outline what actions the Government can take to ensure that young offenders receive a high-quality education—

• 31 Oct 2024 · Business of the House · Hansard source

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  This week, I had the pleasure of receiving a letter from Sycamore class of Slaithwaite Church of England junior and infant school. Inspired by Marcus Sedgwick’s novel “Floodland”, the students expressed their concerns about climate change with remarkable insight and passion. The children’s genuine concern and thoughtful suggestions highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change. It was inspiring to see young minds so engaged and determined to make a difference. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating the students of Slaithwaite Church of England junior and infant school on their excellent work? Will she encourage schools across the country to educate pupils about climate change and the actions needed to address it?