HOUSE OF LORDS WRITTEN STATEMENTS AND WRITTEN ANSWERS
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Session 2019-21 Monday
No. 219 26 April 2021
PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES
(HANSARD)
HOUSE OF LORDS
WRITTEN STATEMENTS AND
WRITTEN ANSWERS
Written Statements ................................................ 1
Written Answers ..................................................... 4[I] indicates that the member concerned has a relevant registered interest. The full register of interests can be found at
http://www.parliament.uk/mps-lords-and-offices/standards-and-interests/register-of-lords-interests/
Members who want a printed copy of Written Answers and Written Statements should notify the Printed Paper Office.
This printed edition is a reproduction of the original text of Answers and Statements, which can be found on the internet
at http://www.parliament.uk/writtenanswers/.
Ministers and others who make Statements or answer Questions are referred to only by name, not their ministerial or
other title. The current list of ministerial and other responsibilities is as follows.
Minister Responsibilities
Baroness Evans of Bowes Park Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
Earl Howe Deputy Leader of the House of Lords
Lord Agnew of Oulton Minister of State, Treasury and Cabinet Office
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
Lord Ashton of Hyde Chief Whip
Baroness Barran Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport
Baroness Berridge Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Education and Department for
International Trade
Lord Bethell Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health and Social Care
Baroness Bloomfield of Hinton Whip
Waldrist
Lord Callanan Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial
Strategy
Earl of Courtown Deputy Chief Whip
Lord Frost Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Lord Gardiner of Kimble Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Environment, Food and Rural
Affairs
Baroness Goldie Minister of State, Ministry of Defence
Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park Minister of State, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Foreign,
Commonwealth and Development Office
Lord Greenhalgh Minister of State, Home Office and Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local
Government
Lord Grimstone of Boscobel Minister of State, Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and Department
for International Trade
Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay Whip
Baroness Penn Whip
Baroness Scott of Bybrook Whip
Baroness Stedman-Scott Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Work and Pensions
Lord Stewart of Dirleton Advocate-General for Scotland
Lord True Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Baroness Vere of Norbiton Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Transport
Baroness Williams of Trafford Minister of State, Home Office
Lord Wolfson of Tredegar Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Justice
Viscount Younger of Leckie Whip
© Parliamentary Copyright House of Lords 2021
This publication may be reproduced under the terms of the Open Parliament licence,
which is published at www.parliament.uk/site-information/copyright/Written Statements 26 April 2021 Page 1
I have today presented a departmental Minute notifying
Written Statements parliament of the two contingent liabilities arising from
the provision of these indemnities. Details of the
Monday, 26 April 2021
contingent liabilities are set out in the Minute.
Global Anti-Corruption Sanctions Fan-led Review of Football Governance
[HLWS930]
[HLWS932]
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: My Right Honourable
Baroness Barran: My Honourable Friend the Minister
Friend, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth
for Sport and Tourism, Nigel Huddleston MP, has made
and Development Affairs (Dominic Raab), has made the
the following Statement:
following Written Ministerial Statement:
The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and
I have today laid before Parliament, under the powers
Sport announced an independent fan-led review of
of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018,
football governance on 19 April. This will be chaired by
the Global Anti-Corruption Sanctions Regulations 2021.
the Honourable Member for Chatham and Aylesford.
The sanctions regime established by these Regulations
This manifesto commitment followed a number of high
seeks to prevent and combat serious corruption around the
profile club collapses in recent years, including Bury
world by allowing for asset freezes and travel bans to be
Football Club which resulted in its expulsion from the
imposed on individuals or organisations involved in
English Football League. Football clubs are integral parts
serious corruption. It is a smart tool allowing the
of our local communities and it is vital that they are
Government to target corrupt actors and their enablers. It
protected. The European Super League proposals, which
will prevent those responsible from entering the UK or
would have been detrimental to the entire football
laundering their ill-gotten assets here. These sanctions
pyramid, demonstrated that now is the right time to
will help to ensure that the UK is not a safe haven for
launch the review.
those involved in serious corruption, including those who
profit from it. The Government has now published the Terms of
Reference for the review. It will seek to make
The Global Anti-Corruption sanctions regime will stand
recommendations on ways to improve the governance,
alongside the Global Human Rights sanctions regime and
ownership and financial sustainability of clubs in English
give the UK an additional, powerful device to prevent and
football, building on the strengths of the football pyramid.
combat serious corruption around the world.
This will include examining the Owners' and Directors’
Today, I will also give an Oral Statement to set out the Tests, exploring ownership models from other countries,
new sanctions regime and publish the first persons to be and assessing the merits of an independent regulator.
designated under it.
Football begins and ends with fans and we have seen
that passionately displayed over the past few days, with
Contingent Liabilities Notification: NIHR clubs being the beating heart of their communities. This
National Biosample Centre review will help put football on a firmer footing for the
future and ensure that supporters’ voices are heard.
[HLWS931]
A copy of the Terms of Reference will be deposited in
Lord Bethell: The National Institute for Health
the Libraries of both Houses.
Research (NIHR) National Biosample Centre is a state-of-
The Statement includes the following attached material:
the-art biosample storage and processing facility. It was
established in 2014 through a capital grant from the then Football Goverance ToR [Football Governance Review_ Terms of
Department of Health to the University of Oxford, with Reference .pdf]
the aim of enhancing the nation’s capability and capacity
to support medical, health and life sciences research into The material can be viewed online at:
disease mechanisms, new diagnostics and treatments. The http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-
answers-statements/written-statement/Lords/2021-04-26/HLWS932/
NIHR National Biosample Centre remains a key national
asset in the context of the Government’s commitment to
the life sciences and, since April 2020, it has also served Kalifa Review of UK Fintech
as the Milton Keynes Lighthouse Lab for COVID-19 [HLWS933]
testing.
Lord Agnew of Oulton: My right honourable friend
To help ensure the long-term financial viability of the the Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rishi Sunak) has today
NIHR National Biosample Centre, and following made the following Written Ministerial Statement:
consideration of several options, I have approved the
transfer of the assets and leasing business from the Innovation is at the forefront of our vision for the future
University of Oxford to the Department of Health and of UK financial services. The Government is committed
Social Care; in return, the Department will pay £1 and to ensuring that the UK remains at the global cutting edge
provide the University of Oxford with two indemnities of technology and innovation in financial services.
relating to its ownership. Creating the conditions needed for our Fintech businessesPage 2 26 April 2021 Written Statements
to grow and compete, both here and abroad, is central to • Working with industry over coming months to
delivering on this ambition. This is why, at Budget 2020, identify further solutions for supporting firms manage
I asked Ron Kalifa OBE to carry out an independent the journey to scale.
review of the UK Fintech sector. The FCA has also announced plans to create a
The Kalifa Review of UK Fintech (the Review) [1] was regulatory ‘nursery’ for enhanced oversight of newly
published on 26 February 2021. It made a number of authorised firms, enabling an opportunity for additional
recommendations aimed at Government, regulators, and support as firms become used to the requirements of
industry across five areas: Policy and Regulation, Skills regulatory compliance.
and Talent, Investment, International Attractiveness and Listings regime
Competitiveness, and National Connectivity. At
The Lord Hill Listings Review, which was published at
publication, HM Treasury welcomed the Review and
Budget 2021, made recommendations to boost the UK as
highlighted key recommendations including:
a destination for IPOs and optimise the capital raising
• A Centre for Finance, Innovation, and Technology to process on UK markets, addresses a number of the Kalifa
strengthen national coordination across the Fintech Review’s recommendations for attracting more Fintech
ecosystem to boost growth. listings to the UK. The Government set out details of its
• A regulatory ‘scalebox’ to provide additional support response to Lord Hill’s Review in a Written Ministerial
to growth stage Fintechs. Statement on 19 April (HCWS919). In parallel, the FCA
plans to consult on issues raised by the Kalifa Review
• Amendments to UK listings rules to make the UK a including reducing the minimum ‘free float’ a company
more attractive location for Initial Public Offerings must have when it lists, and whether premium listed
(IPOs). companies can have dual share class structures.
• Improvements to tech visas to attract global talent and Scale-up visa
boost the Fintech workforce. The Government demonstrated its support for attracting
Here we have set out the actions that Government and international talent to the UK at Budget 2021 by
regulators are taking in response to the Review’s announcing creation of a ‘scale-up visa stream’. The new
recommendations. stream will be created within a new elite points-based
Centre for Finance, Innovation and Technology route that will allow employees with a job offer at the
required skills level from a recognised UK scale up,
The Government recognises the potential for a private-
including Fintechs, to qualify for a fast-track visa, without
sector-led Centre for Finance, Innovation and Technology
the need for sponsorship or third-party endorsement. The
(CFIT) as an accelerator for Fintech sector growth. It can
Government will set out further details by July and the
achieve this through research, thought leadership, and
new route will be implemented by March 2022.
working with regional Fintech hubs and national Fintech
bodies to identify and address barriers to growth to the International competitiveness
benefit of the sector across the whole of the UK. I have The Department for International Trade (DIT) has
confirmed that the Government supports the creation of announced it will create two new Fintech initiatives in
this Centre and that it will work closely with the Fintech response to the Review. The first is a new Fintech cohort
community to make it a reality. within DIT’s Export Academy initiative. This will
Regulatory Scalebox provide bespoke, 1-2-1 advice to eligible UK Fintechs
who are ready to scale into key markets such as North
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has also
America, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Tailored advice
welcomed the Kalifa Review and has set out steps it will
will cover topics such as legal, tax, regulation,
be taking to deliver against the Review’s idea for a
accounting, and market entry matters, all of which will
‘regulatory scalebox’, by enhancing its existing regulatory
support the international expansion ambitions of Fintechs
toolkit. These actions include:
on the programme. This is in addition to the wide range of
• Launching ‘Always Open’ to make the Regulatory existing DIT export support services currently available
Sandbox available on a rolling basis. for UK businesses. DIT will also establish a Fintech
• Clarifying the scope of qualifying propositions for the Champions scheme, comprising of leading UK Fintech
Regulatory Sandbox to ensure as many firms as advocates who are successfully exporting. DIT Fintech
possible are able to access support. Champions will fly the flag for UK Fintech overseas and
support the next generation of UK Fintechs in their
• Launching, in conjunction with the City of London growth journeys through mentoring and peer to peer
Corporation, the second phase of the Digital Sandbox learning. Both initiatives will enhance UK Fintech
pilot, inviting applications to test proof of concepts to overseas, further elevating the UK’s status as a world
solve sustainability and climate change financial leading Fintech Hub.
challenges.
Regulation for digital finance
• Considering how to provide a ‘one-stop-shop’ for The Review also made recommendations more broadly
growth-stage firms to dock in and easily navigate what for the Government to develop a regulatory framework
sources of FCA support are available to them. for digitalisation and emerging technology in financialWritten Statements 26 April 2021 Page 3
services. The Government is taking forward a number of to ensure the schemes work as efficiently as possible,
initiatives in these areas: including:
Along with the Bank of England, HM Treasury has • A Call for Evidence on the Enterprise Management
launched a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Incentive scheme to seek views on whether the scheme
Taskforce to coordinate the exploration of a potential UK is meeting its objectives, and examine whether more
CBDC – the Government and the Bank of England have companies should be able to access the scheme.
not yet made a decision on whether to introduce a CBDC • A review of R&D tax reliefs which follows the
in the UK. A CBDC would be a new form of money that consultation last year on expanding the qualifying
would exist alongside cash and bank deposits, rather than expenditures to include cloud computing and data.
replacing them; the Government recognises that cash The Kalifa Review also makes various
remains important to millions of people across the UK,
recommendations that Government considers industry is
and has committed to legislating to protect access to cash.
best placed to take forward and I am grateful to Ron
HM Treasury and the Bank of England are launching a Kalifa for bringing these to my attention.
CBDC Engagement Forum to gather strategic input on all I would like to conclude by thanking Ron Kalifa and his
non-technology aspects of CBDC. team for their exceptional work in producing this seminal
The Bank of England is also launching a CBDC Review. Ron has succeeded in producing insightful
Technology Forum to gather input on all technology analysis, and garnering widespread support from industry
aspects of CBDC. for a suite of proposals that keep us on track for the
The Bank of England has launched a new account type continued success of UK Fintech.
that will allow access to central bank money by I look forward to taking forward the steps I have
innovative financial market infrastructure providers to outlined today.
allow them to provide enhanced wholesale payment and [1]https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/
settlement. uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/978396/Kali
The Government has announced a financial market faReviewofUKFintech01.pdf
infrastructure (FMI) sandbox for firms exploring how to
use technologies, such as distributed ledger technology Whiplash Reform Programme Update
(DLT), to innovate in the settlement of financial
[HLWS934]
securities. This regime will aim to support firms, which
are developing this new technology, with a more flexible Lord Wolfson of Tredegar: The Government remains
and tailored approach to meeting requirements in current firmly committed to the implementation on 31 May 2021
legislation, whilst appropriately balancing any risks to of the necessary and proportionate measures to control the
financial stability, market integrity and consumer number and cost of claims for whiplash as, set out in Part
protection. This new regime will be inspired by the FCA’s 1 of the Civil Liability Act 2018. It also intends to
sandbox and HM Treasury will work together with the implement on 31 May the associated increase, from
Bank of England and the FCA to deliver this. £1000 to £5,000 to the small claims track limit for road
traffic accident (RTA) related personal injury claims.
In 2020 the Government committed to creating a
framework of standards, governance, and legislation The Government had previously considered an increase,
to enable a UK Digital Identity market. The Department from £1000 to £2000, to the small claims track limit for
for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) published all other types of personal injury claims, including
a draft Trust Framework for consultation in February this employers and public liability claims. However, having
year which sets out the Government’s vision for the rules considered the views of a number of stakeholders,
governing the future use of Digital Identities. A next including from a wide range of representatives from
iteration is expected to be published this summer. across the insurance industry and the personal injury and
trade union sectors, the government has decided to both
The Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial limit the proposed increase in the small claims limit for all
Strategy is taking forward work on Smart Data and has other personal injury claims to £1,500 instead of £2,000
committed to bringing forward legislation to better enable and to defer the implementation of this measure until
data-sharing across-sectors, including Open Finance. The April 2022.
FCA published a Call for Input on Open Finance in 2019
and published a Feedback Statement in March this year. Delivering this reform remains a key Government
This set out that the FCA will work closely with the priority but we believe that a more modest increase in the
Government as it takes forward the work on legislation as small claims track limit for non-RTA related claims is
well as assessing the regulatory framework that would be justified. Pausing its implementation for 12 months will
needed to support Open Finance. enable greater focus to be placed on the commencement
of the whiplash reforms and the launch of the new
Tax Official Injury Claim service for claimants on 31 May
The Review also highlighted the benefits of tax 2021. This decision will also provide affected
incentive schemes in supporting Fintech growth and at stakeholders additional time to prepare for the increase in
Budget 2021 the Government announced steps it is taking April next year.Page 4 26 April 2021 Written Answers
Written Answers Year
2011-12
Cash outturn
£13,335
Real terms*
£15,442
Monday, 26 April 2021
2012-13 £0 £0
2013-14 £20,490 £22,840
10 Downing Street
2014-15 £0 £0
Asked by Baroness Jenkin of Kennington
2015-16 £29,106 £31,744
To ask Her Majesty's Government what was the
outturn spending from the public purse on the Prime 2016-17 £19,400 £20,647
Ministerial residence in Downing Street in each 2017-18 £0 £0
financial year since 1997 for which records are held.
2018-19 £6,134 £6,270
[HL14191]
2019-20 £0 £0
Lord True: The Downing Street complex is a working
*Using HMT figures for GDP deflator for 2019-20.
building, as well as containing two Ministerial residences.
As has always been the case, refurbishments and Note: The annual allowance may be combined or spread to support works across
maintenance are made periodically. The Government is financial years.
legally required to maintain the Downing Street buildings Figures exclude essential works to make good the premises prior to occupation.
to the high standards appropriate to its Grade 1 and 2
No works took place in 2019-20 partly due to the
listed status in consultation with Historic England. The
general election and the Covid pandemic.
listed status, as well as security and other relevant factors,
significantly add to the cost of maintenance and repairs, Audited figures of spending from the allowance for the
compared to normal properties. 2020-21 financial year are not yet available; works have
taken place by long-standing Downing Street contractors
Across successive governments, Prime Ministers have
on painting, sanding and floorboards. Any costs of wider
received an annual allowance of up to £30,000 a year
refurbishment in this year have been met by the Prime
from the public purse to contribute towards the costs
Minister personally.
associated with maintaining and furnishing of the
residency within the Downing Street estate. The Government has been considering the merits of
whether works on parts or all of the Downing Street estate
Such works contribute to assets owned and held by the
could be funded by a trust; this could mirror long-
nation for use by Ministers, including for example for
standing arrangements in place for Chequers (a private
hosting official guests.
trust) or for Dorneywood (a charitable trust), reducing the
Figures for outturn spending from that allowance on the need for subsidy from the public purse. Such matters are
No 11 flat (the residence of the Prime Minister since legally complex and policy development is ongoing. The
1997) are as follows. Government engaged with the Leader of the Opposition’s
To assist public scrutiny, they are presented in cash Office on the proposals in July.
terms at the time of the payments, and in real terms Matters concerning works on the Downing Street estate,
(equivalent costs today). including the residences, will be covered in the Cabinet
Year Cash outturn Real terms* Office’s forthcoming annual report and audited accounts.
1997-98 £16,471 £25,299
Abattoirs: Inspections
1998-99 £48,336 £73,040
1999-00 £32,189 £48,425
Asked by Lord Patten
2000-01 £37,501 £55,406 To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment
they have made of the availability of English-speaking
2001-02 £32,945 £47,973 Official Veterinarians to monitor abattoirs. [HL14806]
2002-03 £32,707 £46,587
Lord Gardiner of Kimble: The Department can
2003-04 £21,094 £29,414 confirm that all vets working in abattoirs, on behalf of the
2004-05 £14,012 £18,996 Food Standards Agency or for Food Standards Scotland,
providing statutory controls and certification duties, are
2005-06 £35,293 £46,617 registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
2006-07 £14,832 £19,050 and speak English.
2007-08 £28,150 £35,164
Abortion: Telemedicine
2008-09 £27,083 £32,939
Asked by Baroness Stroud
2009-10 £29,389 £35,181
2010-11 £30,000 £35,267
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment
they have made of the ability to screen for ectopicWritten Answers 26 April 2021 Page 5
pregnancies via telemedicine abortion services. Action Network's Protection Framework for women
[HL14837] peacebuilders, to ensure women's safety is not a barrier to
their participation. We will also continue to support the
Lord Bethell: No assessment has been made. The
Women Mediators across the Commonwealth network,
Department does not set clinical practice. The Royal
having provided over £2 million since 2018.
College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has issued
clinical guidelines Coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
and abortion care: Information for healthcare Africa: Overseas Aid
professionals. A copy is attached. The guidance sets out
Asked by Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle
that taking a history and a symptom-based approach, with
an ultrasound if indicated, is consistent with the National To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they
Institute for Health and Care Excellence’s guidance on the have to (1) maintain, or (2) increase the level of funding
diagnosis and management of ectopic pregnancy. The in 2021/2022 for (a) parliamentary strengthening, and
Royal College’s guidance includes a decision aid for (b) promoting pluralism in Africa; and what plans they
clinicians to use to help determine if an ultra-sound scan have to (i) maintain, or (ii) increase this funding
is required. through the Westminster Foundation for Democracy in
The Answer includes the following attached material: 2021/2022. [HL14692]
COVID-19 Infection and Abortion Care [2020-07-31-coronavirus- Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: As outlined in the
covid-19-infection-and-abortion-care.pdf] recently-published Integrated Review, the UK will
support strong, transparent and accountable political
The material can be viewed online at: processes and institutions overseas. The Government will
http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions- continue to use its development budget to champion and
answers-statements/written-question/Lords/2021-04-12/HL14837
strengthen democratic institutions, human rights, free
media and effective governance. Supporting open
Afghanistan: Peace Negotiations societies is a priority in Africa, the way we act to promote
Asked by Baroness Hodgson of Abinger democracy and defend democratic freedoms in each
country is dependent on the context and needs of the
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they country concerned. The Westminster Foundation for
have to raise at the G7 summit the limited participation Democracy is an important partner in delivering this work
of women in the Afghan peace process; and what plans in many African contexts.
they have to increase the participation of women in this
The impact of the global pandemic on the UK economy
process and other global peace processes. [HL14750]
has forced us to take the tough but necessary decision to
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK is committed to temporarily reduce how much we spend on Official
promoting women's full, equal and meaningful Development Assistance (ODA). We will temporarily
participation in all aspects of peace and security. The UK move to a target of spending 0.5 per cent of Gross
is committed to making gender equality a cross-cutting National Income (GNI) on ODA, rather than 0.7 per cent.
theme in its G7 Presidency and plans to discuss This is a temporary measure and we will return to 0.7 per
Afghanistan, including the importance of an inclusive cent when the fiscal situation allows. We are now
peace process, at the G7 Foreign and Development working through the implications of these changes for
Ministers meeting. An inclusive peace settlement between individual programmes. No decisions have yet been made
Afghans is the only way of achieving lasting peace. The on individual budget allocations.
UK is supporting efforts to achieve this. Within
Afghanistan, the UK provides technical advice to the
Afghan Ministry of Peace, training for the Afghan Antisocial Behaviour and Crime
negotiating team, and capacity building support to the Asked by Lord Hay of Ballyore
Afghan women's network and civil society organisations.
The UK's partnership with the Catholic Organization for To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment
Relief and Development Aid (CORDAID) provides they have made of current levels of (1) knife crime, (2)
mentoring to a diverse cadre of 30 female peacebuilders anti-social behaviour, and (3) gun crime, in England
and promotes peace discussions across 15 provinces. At and Wales. [HL14739]
the UN, the UK is co-host of the Group of Friends of Baroness Williams of Trafford: The ONS published
Women in Afghanistan, and recently hosted a high-level the findings from the Crime Survey for England and
event on 19 March to discuss how the international Wales (for year ending March 2020) on 8 September
community can more effectively ensure Afghan women's 2020, which included a section on perceptions of anti-
safety, and their meaningful participation at all levels of social behaviour (ASB) incidents. The report noted that
the peace process. 7% of all adults in England and Wales reported a high-
The UK National Action Plan on Women Peace and level of perceived ASB, a similar proportion to the year
Security shows how the UK aims to increase women's ending March 2019 and an overall reduction in the
meaningful participation in peace processes globally. The perception of high-levels of ASB since 2003 (21%).
UK continues to support the International Civil Society Furthermore, firearms offences recorded by the police inPage 6 26 April 2021 Written Answers
England and Wales decreased by 7% in the year ending Lord Greenhalgh: As has been the case since 2008,
September 2020, compared with the previous year (to the UK’s points-based immigration system will not offer a
6,242 offences). And offences involving the use of knives dedicated route for au pairs.
or sharp instruments decreased by 3% over the same Those who wish to employ an au pair can either look to
period (to 47,119 offences). offer a package which makes it attractive to those arriving
in the UK with general rights to work, such as our Youth
Mobility Schemes, or use the wide range of childcare
Asylum: Housing
options in the UK relied upon by most families.
Asked by The Lord Bishop of Durham EU citizens who arrived prior to 31 December 2020,
To ask Her Majesty's Government how many asylum including au pairs, are eligible to apply for status under
seekers they have asked (1) Mears, (2) Serco, and (3) this government’s EU Settlement Scheme which grants a
Clearsprings Ready Homes, to provide accommodation general right to work in the UK.
for as part of Operation Oak. [HL14716] Asked by Baroness Hodgson of Abinger
Lord Greenhalgh: We currently have c8100 people in To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment
hotels, with our providers working to procure sufficient they have made of the role of au pair schemes (1)
accommodation across the UK to exit contingency in creating ties with young people from EU countries,
accommodation and maintain a business as usual (2) in promoting UK values to au pairs arriving in the
operation thereafter. UK, and (3) in providing affordable childcare.
We require providers to work at pace but have directed [HL14749]
them to only procure accommodation which is safe and
Lord Greenhalgh: As has been the case since 2008,
secure for asylum seekers and the communities in which
the UK’s points-based immigration system will not offer a
they live.
dedicated route for au pairs.
We remain committed to working in partnership with
There are other immigration routes which will exist for
local authorities, through the use the Strategic Migration
people who may wish to take up these roles, such as those
Partnerships to ensure the views of local authorities are
on the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS). The YMS results
included when forward planning.
in around 20,000 young people from around the world,
Asked by The Lord Bishop of Durham with capacity for more, to experience life in the UK. Each
YMS is based on a reciprocal agreement giving benefits
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether there is a
to UK Citizens as well.
maximum recommended length of stay for asylum
seekers in contingency accommodation before they are Immigration cannot be seen as the sole solution to
offered more suitable long-term accommodation. providing cheaper childcare, there are a wide-range of
[HL14717] childcare options available in the UK which are relied
upon by most families.
Baroness Williams of Trafford: There is no maximum
recommended length of stay for asylum seekers in Azerbaijan: Human Rights
contingency accommodation.
The global pandemic and the pause on the cessation of Asked by Baroness Cox
support has meant that the supported population has To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment
grown and in order to ensure the health of both asylum they have made of the report by the US Department of
seekers and the community in which they live the Home State 2020 Country Reports on Human Rights
Office has had to use contingency accommodation to Practices: Azerbaijan, published on 30 March.
avoid destitution. [HL14713]
We would encourage Local Authorities who do not
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK Government
currently house supported asylum seekers, such as
has not made an assessment of the US Department of
Durham, to participate in the asylum dispersal scheme so
State 2020 Country Report on Human Rights Practices in
that we can minimise the length of stay in contingency
Azerbaijan. Support for human rights and human rights
accommodation
defenders is a priority around the world, and we continue
to raise human rights issues with the Azerbaijani
Au Pairs Government accordingly. During her recent visit to
Azerbaijan, the Minister for the European Neighbourhood
Asked by Baroness Hodgson of Abinger
and the Americas raised the importance of respect for
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment human rights, including the need to support a vibrant and
they have made of the impact of the UK's departure active civil society, the importance of ensuring women's
from the EU on au pairs; and whether au pairs who are rights and protection, and the need to encourage a free
EU citizens will still be able to work in the UK for one media environment. Her Majesty's Ambassador to
year. [HL14748] Azerbaijan also routinely engages on these issues.Written Answers 26 April 2021 Page 7
[1]
Bangladesh: Overseas Aid https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/hmt-
ministers-meetings-hospitality-gifts-and-overseas-travel.
Asked by Lord Hylton
To ask Her Majesty's Government how much aid Bees
have they provided to support (1) the government of
Asked by Lord Teverson
Bangladesh, and (2) agencies operating in Bangladesh,
with the arrival of Rohingya refugees; and what plans To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment
they have to lead international efforts to find permanent they have made of the impact of the occurrence of the
settlement for Rohingya refugees. [HL14759] small hive beetle in Europe on their Pest Risk Analysis;
and further to the importation of bees from Italy, what
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: The UK has been a
plans they have to update the Pest Risk Analysis.
leading donor to the Rohingya crisis in Bangladesh,
[HL14848]
having committed £293.5 million since August 2017. This
has been channelled through UN agencies and NGOs, Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: Biosecurity is a
working alongside the government of Bangladesh. UK aid priority for this Government, and we recognise that Small
has been instrumental in improving the lives of the hive beetle represents a serious threat to our honey bees.
890,000 refugees and the vulnerable local Bangladeshi Following the detection of Small hive beetle in the far
communities in Cox's Bazar district. Our funding has south of Italy in 2014, Defra published a contingency plan
provided lifesaving support including food, healthcare, and contingency exercises have taken place regularly so
nutrition, education, clean water and sanitation, and that inspectors from the National Bee Unit (NBU) are
targeted support for women and girls. The UK continues prepared to deal with any suspected occurrence of this
to lead international efforts to maintain attention on the invasive pest in England or Wales. To date, Small hive
Rohingya crisis and seek durable solutions and beetle has not been detected in Europe beyond the far
accountability for atrocities committed. This includes south of Italy.
work through the UN Security Council and the
Exports of bees from the affected region of Italy are not
international conference hosted in October 2020 alongside
permitted. Exports from other regions in Italy are subject
the US, EU and UN.
to notification requirements and health certification to
ensure freedom from key pests and diseases including
Banks: EU Countries Small hive beetle. Laboratory analysis and follow up
checks are carried out by NBU inspectors.
Asked by Lord Myners We are working with the NBU, beekeepers and other
To ask Her Majesty's Government what talks they stakeholders to stop Small hive beetle from entering the
have held with banks about requests by the EU to move UK. An extensive surveillance programme is in place for
more (1) functions, and (2) people, from offices in the exotic pests. NBU inspectors currently conduct around
EU to the UK; and what assessment they have made of 6,500 apiary inspections each year. Our Sentinel Apiary
any such requests. [HL14795] Programme ensures that there is enhanced surveillance at
high-risk apiaries near ports and airports. Inspectors also
Lord Agnew of Oulton: Treasury officials and provide training and guidance on pest recognition to
Ministers carry out extensive engagement with the beekeepers.
banking sector, regularly meeting with a wide range of
firms as part of the process of policy development and Along with colleagues in the Devolved UK
delivery. Details of ministerial and permanent secretary Administrations, we are monitoring the impact of the new
meetings with external organisations on departmental trading arrangements with EU countries and our
business are published on a quarterly basis and are contingency protocols will be reviewed and updated
available online [1]. accordingly.
The Bank of England (through the Prudential Asked by Lord Teverson
Regulation Authority) and the Financial Conduct To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the
Authority are responsible for supervising financial occurrence of the small hive beetle in Europe, what
services firms in the UK. plans they have to ban the import of honey bee queens
The EU’s actions are fundamentally for them to from Italy. [HL14849]
articulate. We believe open markets are a global good, Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: Small hive
and they are best supported by global standards and beetle was first detected in Europe in 2014, in the far
effective regulation. Fragmentation is not in anyone’s south of Italy, and safeguard measures have been
interests. maintained by the Italian authorities since then. While
The Chancellor set out in November our ambitious further cases have occurred in the same area in
plans to renew the UK’s position as the world’s pre- subsequent years, Small hive beetle has not been detected
eminent financial centre – ensuring it is more open, outside the far south of Italy.
technologically advanced, a global leader in green Exports of honey bees from the affected region of Italy
finance, and of course well-regulated. are not permitted. The Government has no plans to banPage 8 26 April 2021 Written Answers
imports of honey bee queens from unaffected regions of Lord Bethell: Patients with blood cancer are included
Italy. in the Joint Committee on Vaccination and
Immunisation’s priority group four, for individuals who
Asked by Lord Teverson
are clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. Patients
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the with blood cancer outside of these diagnoses would be
Healthy Bees Plan 2030, what steps they plan to take to included in priority group six for at-risk groups.
prevent the importation of package bees from Europe Vaccination of patients undergoing treatment for cancer
into Great Britain through Northern Ireland. [HL14850] will be carefully considered by clinicians. The National
Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: EU member Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has
states may export bees to Northern Ireland in line with published COVID-19 rapid guideline: managing COVID-
intra-Union trade rules. This means that packages and 19 on cancer treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic.
colonies may be exported to Northern Ireland provided A copy is attached. Public Health England (PHE)
they have been notified in advance and are accompanied continues to monitor the impact of COVID-19 vaccines
by a valid health certificate confirming that the on a broad range of outcomes including symptomatic
consignment is free of key pests and diseases. disease, infection and hospitalisations. NICE and PHE
continue to advise the Government on these guidelines,
Movements of queens, packages and colonies from
which are reviewed and updated regularly.
Northern Ireland to Great Britain remain permitted. There
The Answer includes the following attached material:
is, and will remain, unfettered access for Northern Ireland
goods including honey bees to the rest of the UK market. COVID-19 rapid guideline: managing COVID-19 [COVID-19
The Healthy Bees Plan 2030 describes how we will rapid guideline_ managing COVID-19 (1).pdf]
work in partnership with beekeepers and other
stakeholders. This includes actions to stop Small hive The material can be viewed online at:
http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-
beetle from entering the UK. An extensive surveillance answers-statements/written-question/Lords/2021-01-07/HL11894
programme is in place for exotic pests. National Bee Unit
inspectors currently conduct around 6,500 apiary Boats: Exhaust Emissions
inspections each year. Our Sentinel Apiary Programme
ensures that there is enhanced surveillance at high-risk Asked by Lord Krebs
apiaries near ports and airports. Inspectors also provide
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the
training and guidance on pest recognition to beekeepers.
Written Answer by Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park
on 22 March (HL13985), what plans they have to
Belfast Agreement reduce air pollution from diesel (1) engines, and (2)
generators, on canal boats moored in residential areas.
Asked by Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick [HL14775]
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: The Government
have to review the implementation of the Belfast/Good is working to address emissions from canal boats as part
Friday Agreement. [HL14885] of our wider commitment to improve air quality. Recent
Viscount Younger of Leckie: This Government efforts have focussed on reducing pollution from solid
remains fully committed to the Belfast/Good Friday fuel burning but government is actively exploring what
Agreement and ensuring that all obligations under it options are available in the longer term to eliminate
continue to be met. The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement harmful emissions from the small diesel engines used on
provided a foundation for peace and a framework for watercraft including the inland waterways sector.
prosperity for Northern Ireland. Analysis undertaken by the Department for Transport
The 10th April marked 23 years since the signing of the has identified that alternative fuels and power sources will
Agreement. In that time there has been a transformative be needed in order to achieve substantial long-term
change in Northern Ireland where peace has brought reductions in air pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions
stability and opportunities, and enabled Northern Ireland from the inland and UK domestic fleets. In response to
to develop into the vibrant place it is today. this the Government has recently launched the Clean
Maritime Demonstration Competition, a £20m fund
aimed at supporting innovation in the wider maritime
Blood Cancer: Coronavirus sector and accelerating the commercial availability of low
and zero emissions technology for vessels in the UK.
Asked by Lord Mendelsohn While primarily focused on maritime activity it is
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment expected that this fund will also benefit related sectors
they have made of (1) the risks to, and (2) the most including inland fleet, particularly in areas like engine
effective treatment and vaccination options for, blood technology and alternative fuels.
cancer patients in relation to COVID-19; and what Additionally, the maritime elements of the
discussions they have had with health agencies on this Government’s forthcoming Transport Decarbonisation
subject. [HL11894] Plan (TDP) will consider the wider opportunities toWritten Answers 26 April 2021 Page 9
reduce pollutant emissions arising from our transition to British Nationality: Assessments
net zero in 2050 and will consult upon appropriate policy
responses to support this outcome. The TDP is planned Asked by Lord Wallace of Saltaire
for publication in late Spring. To ask Her Majesty's Government how many
applicants for (1) British citizenship, and (2) long-term
Brain Cancer: Research residence in the UK, took the Life in the UK test in (a)
Welsh, and (b) Scots Gaelic, in each of the last three
Asked by The Lord Bishop of Carlisle years for which figures are available. [HL14854]
To ask Her Majesty's Government when they will Lord Greenhalgh: In the last 3 years, there has been
allocate the remainder of the £40 million pledged to one Life in the UK test taken in Welsh, and no tests have
brain cancer research announced in May 2018. been taken in Scots Gaelic.
[HL14707]
The test taken in Welsh was a customer applying for
Lord Bethell: We are unable to specify an exact date British Citizenship.
when the remainder of the £40 million will be allocated,
as we are relying on researchers to submit high-quality British Nationals Abroad: Death
research proposals in this very difficult area. However, we
are working to improve the number and quality of Asked by Lord Leigh of Hurley
applications by working with the Tessa Jowell Brain To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they
Cancer Mission towards funding workshops for have taken to improve the (1) procedures, and (2)
previously unsuccessful researchers to support them in policies, for UK citizens seeking assistance following a
submitting higher quality research applications. death abroad, in particular in respect of repatriation of
deceased relatives, subsequent to the murder of Daniel
and Amelie Linsey in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday
Brain: Tumours 2020. [HL14777]
Asked by Baroness Jay of Paddington
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: Foreign, Commonwealth
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the and Development Office (FCDO) consular staff are
response by Lord Bethell on 19 January (HL Deb, cols available to offer appropriate and tailored support to
1080–4), what progress they have made towards British nationals and their families, 24 hours a day, seven
developing research projects on brain tumours, and in days a week and 365 days a year. The support we can
particular on young people with brain tumours. provide is set out in Support for British nationals abroad:
[HL14920] A guide, available on GOV.UK
(https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/support-
Lord Bethell: As part of the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer
for-british-nationals-abroad-a-guide). The FCDO seek
Mission, the National Institute for Healthcare Research
continuously to improve our processes and services by
has received 69 applications, 10 of which have been
acting on feedback and reviewing what we do. The FCDO
funded and a further seven are under consideration. One
is an active member of international consular forums and
of the funded applications is focused solely on children learns from, and shares experiences and best practice
and others include young people. with, a range of other countries.
The FCDO provides tailored support to families
British Irish Intergovernmental Conference bereaved overseas, including providing information on
local police and judicial procedures. Since 2015, the
Asked by Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick FCDO's Murder and Manslaughter Team have provided
To ask Her Majesty's Government on what date they dedicated tailored support to families bereaved through
plan to hold the next British-Irish Intergovernmental homicide abroad. This includes working closely with a
Conference. [HL14819] range of other organisations such as police Family Liaison
Officers where these are deployed, and the Homicide
Viscount Younger of Leckie: The British-Irish Service in England and Wales, to help families access
Intergovernmental Conference is an important element of specialist services. A Memorandum of Understanding
Strand Three of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, and between the FCDO, National Police Chiefs Council, and
stands to promote bilateral cooperation at all levels on all the Chief Coroner of England and Wales has been
matters of mutual interest within the competence of the updated and was published on GOV.UK
UK and Irish Governments. (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/murder-
We will of course look for the appropriate time for the manslaughter-and-infanticide-of-british-nationals-abroad-
next BIIGC, especially in the context of strengthening the -2) in September 2020, setting out how each organisation
bilateral relationship between the UK and Ireland, now coordinates delivery of their respective roles and
that we have left the EU. responsibilities.Page 10 26 April 2021 Written Answers
Buildings: Insulation Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: Religion-based and
intercommunal violence is part of a broader trend of
Asked by Lord Ravensdale security deterioration in Burkina Faso. We are deeply
To ask Her Majesty's Government when they intend concerned about this insecurity, which is having a tragic
to publish their plans about the support they intend to impact on communities of all faiths. The UK condemns
provide to leaseholders in buildings below 18 metres in all attacks, including those targeting particular religions or
height that require fire safety remediation work; and ethnic communities. Nobody should live in fear because
what additional support they plan to provide to those of their identity or beliefs.
leaseholders beyond the provision of the Government- At recent G5 Sahel meetings, the Minister for Africa
backed loans they announced on 10 February. and the Foreign Secretary set out the need to address
[HL15072] impunity for human rights abuses and violations and
improve efforts to enhance stability in the Sahel region.
Lord Greenhalgh: Between 11 metres and 18 metres
We are committed to using our memberships of the
the risk profile of buildings is different and will not
United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-
always require the same level of remediation when risks
operation in Europe, Council of Europe, International
are identified. However, we want to make sure the
Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance and other
residents and leaseholders in these buildings also have
international organisations and networks to promote and
peace of mind and financial certainty. That is why the
protect Freedom of Religion or Belief for all.
Government has announced a generous financing scheme
which will mean that buildings of 11-18 metres in height
will be able to access finance for the remediation of Cephalopods and Shellfish: Animal Welfare
unsafe cladding, with a commitment that leaseholders will Asked by Baroness Hodgson of Abinger
not need to pay more than £50 a month towards this. By
providing this financing scheme we are ensuring that To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the peer
funding is available for remediation, accelerating the review for the Review of the Evidence for Sentience in
process and making homes safer as quickly as possible. Decapod Crustaceans and Cephalopod Molluscs report
has been completed; and when the accompanying
On 10 February the Government announced it will
Seafish Report into welfare risks facing these sea
provide an additional £3.5 billion, which builds on steps
creatures will be published. [HL14747]
already taken to support leaseholders, including £1.6
billion of funding to remediate unsafe cladding, the £30 Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park: Defra has
million waking watch fund to help end excessive costs commissioned an independent external review of the
and new legislation in the Building Safety Bill which will available scientific evidence on sentience in decapods and
ensure homes are made and kept safer in future. This cephalopods. This review and the Seafish Report are both
brings the total investment in building safety to an expected to be published shortly.
unprecedented over £5 billion.
We realise the need to get unsafe cladding remediated Charitable Trusts
as swiftly as possible as public safety is our first priority.
Asked by Lord Lee of Trafford
We will publish further details as soon as possible.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they
have to encourage the creation of new charitable trusts
Buildings: Safety focussed on supporting local and regional charitable
Asked by Lord Hendy community activities and initiatives. [HL14776]
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they Baroness Barran: The government does not have
have to provide a 'roadmap' setting out the allocation of specific plans to encourage the creation of new charitable
responsibilities relating to (1) fire safety, and (2) trusts to support local community initiatives. Local and
building safety, between departments. [HL14744] regional charities play a vital role in strengthening
communities and increasing social cohesion and are best
Lord True: The Government is delivering fundamental placed to understand the needs of their communities. The
reform of building and fire safety across both the Building voluntary and community sectors are independent from
Safety Bill and Fire Safety Bill. government and rely on the hard work of staff and
The List of Ministerial Responsibilities can be found on volunteers, as well as funding from individuals,
GOV.UK. businesses, trusts and foundations.
The Charity Commission for England and Wales
produces a range of resources to support individuals who
Burkina Faso: Religious Freedom
wish to set up a new charity. This guidance is available
Asked by Lord Suri online here: https://www.gov.uk/set-up-a-charity.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment The government acts as a steward for these sectors and
they have made of the freedom of religion or belief in meets regularly with charities and social enterprises at
Burkina Faso. [HL14841] both ministerial and official level to discuss sectorWritten Answers 26 April 2021 Page 11
challenges and opportunities. Throughout the Covid-19 provided to departments and ALBs to embed the
pandemic, this has included distributing the £750 million Construction Playbook into their public works projects
civil society sector support package announced by the and programmes.
Chancellor on 8 April 2020 and ensuring that fundraising We are committed to annually reviewing the content of
and volunteering can take place safely where it is possible the Construction Playbook including working to facilitate
to do so. Over many years the government has worked in prompt, fair and effective payment practices throughout
partnership with a range of local community foundations the supply chain. The use of Project Bank Accounts is
and trusts. Most recently this has included the Community required unless there are compelling reasons not to do so
Match Challenge and the Big Night In to distribute and the Prompt Payment Measure allows contracting
funding to small local charities as quickly as possible. authorities to exclude suppliers on the basis of poor
payment performance. At this time we do not have any
Civil Disorder: Northern Ireland plans to provide additional guidance on cash retentions
specifically.
Asked by Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment Coronavirus and Influenza: Death
they have made of the (1) ongoing civil unrest, and (2)
political situation, in Northern Ireland. [HL14820] Asked by Lord Kilclooney
Viscount Younger of Leckie: The sporadic, localised To ask Her Majesty's Government how many
disorder which we have seen in Northern Ireland is people in England died in the first three months of 2021
completely unacceptable, and it is clear that the factors due to (1) flu and (2) COVID-19. [HL14771]
behind it are complex and multifaceted. Lord True: The information requested falls under the
The Ministerial team in the Northern Ireland Office remit of the UK Statistics Authority. I have, therefore,
have been in close contact with political and community asked the Authority to respond.
leaders in Northern Ireland and it is clear that the only Professor Sir Ian Diamond | National Statistician
way to resolve differences is through dialogue. The Rt Hon. the Lord Kilclooney
The Government commend the Northern Ireland House of Lords
Executive for how they have worked collectively in London
handling the recent unrest, and welcomed their joint
SW1A 0PW
statement on 8 April that set out a common position from
all Executive parties against the violence and declared 19 April 2021
their support for law and order and policing. Dear Lord Kilclooney,
As National Statistician and Chief Executive of the UK
Construction: Billing Statistics Authority, I am replying to your Parliamentary
Question asking how many people in England died in the
Asked by Lord Aberdare first three months of 2021 due to (1) Flu and (2) COVID-
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they 19 (HL14771).
have to add any guidance on retentions to the The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is responsible
Construction Playbook when it is next reviewed. for publishing statistics on deaths registered in England
[HL14673] and Wales. Mortality statistics are compiled from
information supplied when deaths are certified and
Asked by Lord Aberdare registered as part of civil registration.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they Cause of death is defined using the International
have to monitor (1) adoption of, and (2) compliance Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems,
with, the Construction Playbook by (a) departments, 10th edition (ICD-10). Deaths where the underlying cause
and (b) their arm’s-length bodies. [HL14674] was Influenza and Pneumonia are defined by the ICD-10
codes J09 to J18, deaths. Where the underlying cause of
Lord True: The Construction Playbook, published in
deaths was COVID-19, these are defined by the ICD
December 2020, includes 14 key policy reforms which
codes U07.1, U07.2 and U10.9.
will help government and industry work better together to
deliver quality public works and value for money. It Table 1 below provides the number of deaths, in
applies to all central government departments and their England, where the underlying cause of death was (1)
ALBs on a ‘comply or explain’ basis and we have Influenza and Pneumonia or (2) COVID-19 for the first
strengthened approvals processes, including Cabinet two months of 2021. Data for March 2021 has not yet
Office controls for projects over £10m total value and the been compiled but will be released within our Monthly
Treasury approvals process, to ensure compliance. Mortality Analysis [1] dataset, scheduled for release on 22
April.
We recognise that this will be a journey and adoption
will be demonstrated through ‘faster, better, greener’ The number of deaths for 2021 are provisional.
public works achieved by a greater proportion of projects Yours sincerely,
applying the Playbook over time and support will be Professor Sir Ian DiamondYou can also read
