:00:00. > :00:22.Questions to the Secretary of State for business,
:00:23. > :00:32.With your permission, I'll answer this together
:00:33. > :00:39.Since I was appointed on the 14th of July, my colleagues and I
:00:40. > :00:43.have met with businesses, investors, workers and local leaders in all
:00:44. > :00:49.four home nations, as well as travelling to India and Japan.
:00:50. > :00:52.Furthermore for the first time, each local enterprise area and each
:00:53. > :01:00.the devolved administrations will have a specific minister
:01:01. > :01:08.assigned to them in my department.
:01:09. > :01:10.I thank the Secretary of State from his answer
:01:11. > :01:14.and also welcome the whole team to the new department as well.
:01:15. > :01:16.The aerospace industry is absolutely vital to the west of England
:01:17. > :01:23.Not just for jobs, but also for growth as well.
:01:24. > :01:25.Will be Secretary of State work with me
:01:26. > :01:28.order to ensure that the entire aerospace industry receives the
:01:29. > :01:36.Mr Speaker, I certainly will do that.
:01:37. > :01:43.One of the biggest privileges of this job is to be reunited with
:01:44. > :01:50.aerospace, and I got to know the sector when I
:01:51. > :01:54.My first ministerial meeting, visit, was with breakfast with the
:01:55. > :01:57.aerospace growth partnership at the Farnborough airshow, where I ran
:01:58. > :02:02.The West of England was well represented
:02:03. > :02:07.This is a very important sector for the economy, and will
:02:08. > :02:15.I too would like to pass on my welcome to the new
:02:16. > :02:28.I've had a number of correspondence from a few local
:02:29. > :02:30.businesses, Rochester and Stroud, predominantly small,
:02:31. > :02:35.partners over a long period of time but has recently seen supply chain
:02:36. > :02:38.Could he outline his commitment to supporting our small
:02:39. > :02:41.businesses in our new relationship with Europe, to ensure that local
:02:42. > :02:43.and regional economies continue to grow?
:02:44. > :02:46.What I will say, I know many small businesses in
:02:47. > :03:03.Through the British Business Bank we have made over ?3 billion
:03:04. > :03:04.available to smaller businesses.
:03:05. > :03:07.She will know that from April next year, the small business
:03:08. > :03:10.That will benefit 60,000 small businesses.
:03:11. > :03:12.This is part of our continuing commitment to small
:03:13. > :03:14.business, which is the motor of the bigger
:03:15. > :03:16.businesses that generate so
:03:17. > :03:18.many jobs together with small businesses in our economy.
:03:19. > :03:22.My home constituency, long established,
:03:23. > :03:29.beautiful seaside destination with big future ambitions including
:03:30. > :03:32.for 2017, a new hot air balloon Festival.
:03:33. > :03:45.I'm delighted to welcome the Eastbourne
:03:46. > :03:50.Can the Minister tell me if he has had
:03:51. > :03:53.discussions with the tourism industry around reducing the level
:03:54. > :03:56.of VAT on tourism services to bring us into line with competitive
:03:57. > :03:58.destinations in the European Union and give our industry the
:03:59. > :04:01.competitive platform from which it can stimulate investment, create
:04:02. > :04:03.jobs, deliver growth and take full advantages
:04:04. > :04:06.of the opportunities in
:04:07. > :04:12.My honourable friend is a big campaign in the
:04:13. > :04:24.We have one of the highest VAT thresholds in the
:04:25. > :04:27.European Union here in the UK so that many small businesses don't
:04:28. > :04:31.Of course, I will continue my discussions with
:04:32. > :04:38.The hot air balloon Festival sounds a very tempting excursion,
:04:39. > :04:40.perhaps for many members in this house.
:04:41. > :04:44.And I look forward to continuing these discussions of her
:04:45. > :04:54.Does the Secretary of State agree that
:04:55. > :04:58.British business people are fat and spend too much time on the golf
:04:59. > :05:06.Mr Speaker, I am yet to meet a lady businessperson,
:05:07. > :05:09.starting with my own father, who was up before dawn every
:05:10. > :05:13.morning running his own small business.
:05:14. > :05:22.reminding us that across the whole country, every business needs to
:05:23. > :05:26.work hard as it does every day of the week, that is the secret
:05:27. > :05:30.That is the way we will continue to prosper as a
:05:31. > :05:33.In light of comments made last week by the Japanese
:05:34. > :05:35.ambassador, the Secretary of State will be aware
:05:36. > :05:38.that Nissan, based in
:05:39. > :05:41.my constituency, contributes ?2.1 billion to the UK balance of trade.
:05:42. > :05:45.And it exports 80% of all cars made at the plant in Sunderland.
:05:46. > :05:50.What opportunities to PC for automotive
:05:51. > :05:56.companies such as Nissan in a post-Brexit strategy and will he
:05:57. > :05:58.commit to meeting Nissan as soon as possible?
:05:59. > :06:01.I will not only make that commitment but tell her
:06:02. > :06:05.that I have already done so and have met the Japanese ambassador.
:06:06. > :06:10.The automotive sector and Nissan in particular
:06:11. > :06:12.is a hugely important and
:06:13. > :06:14.valued part, not only of the Honourable
:06:15. > :06:19.Lady's constituency, but
:06:20. > :06:27.I think it's very encouraging that the Japanese
:06:28. > :06:30.ambassador on behalf of the government shares with us their
:06:31. > :06:35.That is exactly the sort of relationship
:06:36. > :06:41.that I hope and expect to have our partners around the world.
:06:42. > :06:43.Will people be aware of the great anger
:06:44. > :06:46.felt by Britain's wealth creators at the comments of his right
:06:47. > :06:55.What conversations, not just to them, but to our reputation
:06:56. > :06:57.abroad, what conversations has he had specifically with his right
:06:58. > :07:03.honourable friend and with the Prime Minister
:07:04. > :07:05.about limiting the damage?
:07:06. > :07:07.My right honourable friend has been vigorous during the summer
:07:08. > :07:10.in going around the world, promoting the case
:07:11. > :07:11.for British business, as is
:07:12. > :07:16.And members will have the support of everyone in this House if
:07:17. > :07:19.they join the effort that we are making to promote the great
:07:20. > :07:21.opportunities already in this country, and the further
:07:22. > :07:28.Speaker, Secretary of State, can I ask you if
:07:29. > :07:31.you agree that free trade is at the heart
:07:32. > :07:40.And will you and your front bench colleagues be resisting any attempts
:07:41. > :07:44.to impose any form of protectionism when we come to negotiating future
:07:45. > :07:50.I'm not expressing any view, but I think I
:07:51. > :07:54.know what the Honourable gentleman had in mind.
:07:55. > :07:57.I think free trade courses through the veins of this
:07:58. > :08:06.It is one of the reasons that we've been most successful.
:08:07. > :08:09.I was surprised last week to hear a commitment to free trade described
:08:10. > :08:13.I think it is one of our strengths, and he has an absolute
:08:14. > :08:17.assurance that this will be very much at the four of our reputation
:08:18. > :08:20.Can I welcome the Business Secretary to
:08:21. > :08:31.Australia says it's going to take at least three years
:08:32. > :08:35.after Brexit before a trade deal can be in place of the UK,
:08:36. > :08:39.States, Japan and China have already expressed their views about the
:08:40. > :08:41.prospects of foreign investment and trade with the UK.
:08:42. > :08:44.Can he tell us what he is doing to get behind UK
:08:45. > :08:47.businesses and deal with the concerns of our international
:08:48. > :08:57.And can I say to him, that he could not do better
:08:58. > :09:01.get behind business and stop insulting them.
:09:02. > :09:03.I would be interested in the support of the
:09:04. > :09:06.party opposite for promoting British business around the world, and he
:09:07. > :09:10.will know from our previous work on local growers,
:09:11. > :09:14.he'll always have a willing ear and assistance from me
:09:15. > :09:21.Can I welcome the front bench team opposite that has been
:09:22. > :09:26.I have to say, the Honourable gentleman who was my
:09:27. > :09:28.shadow in my DC LG role has followed me here.
:09:29. > :09:32.Perhaps not so much shadow as a stalker, but I regarded as
:09:33. > :09:42.I think it is important. Relationships are important.
:09:43. > :09:47.I think it's important you get to know our partners around the world.
:09:48. > :09:53.I have done that and my colleagues have done that.
:09:54. > :09:55.I visited our investors and manufacturers in Japan
:09:56. > :10:03.and India, and I will continue to do so.
:10:04. > :10:07.Cambridge is a net contributor to the Treasury.
:10:08. > :10:09.20,000 businesses generating revenue of over ?30
:10:10. > :10:13.We have had cross-party meetings with business leaders about
:10:14. > :10:15.the implications of Brexit for our local colony.
:10:16. > :10:19.What the Minister meet in my constituency to discuss these
:10:20. > :10:37.It is one of the important features of
:10:38. > :10:40.our industrial strategy is to have a clear recognition of the
:10:41. > :10:52.contribution of the local leadership different places bring.
:10:53. > :10:55.I have appointed the minister of state as the lead liaison
:10:56. > :10:58.with Cambridge, but I would be very happy to visit myself in future.
:10:59. > :11:01.I welcome the Secretary of State and his team
:11:02. > :11:04.There are challenges, one of which is the
:11:05. > :11:07.trade deficit increasing to ?2.3 billion.
:11:08. > :11:10.A problem unlikely to be resolved by the withdrawal
:11:11. > :11:11.from the single market.
:11:12. > :11:21.Scotland voted to remain, Scotland wishes to remain
:11:22. > :11:28.it wants unhindered access to the market,
:11:29. > :11:34.or does he remain committed to the English Brexit.
:11:35. > :11:37.Many members of the House were impressed by the Honourable member
:11:38. > :11:39.'s contribution to last weeks debate.
:11:40. > :11:41.I will work very hard to
:11:42. > :11:44.make sure our negotiating mandate reflects all parts of the United
:11:45. > :11:47.It was a United Kingdom decision to come out of the European
:11:48. > :11:51.Union, we will make the most of it together.
:11:52. > :11:53.The Scottish Government analysis in terms of
:11:54. > :12:00.European Union is that it could cost the Scottish economy at best ?1.7
:12:01. > :12:03.billion a year, and at worst ?11.2 billion.
:12:04. > :12:15.I made clear in my answer continued membership of the European
:12:16. > :12:17.earlier that free trade is
:12:18. > :12:21.In further discussions, not only with the devolved administrations
:12:22. > :12:26.but with business investors around the world, we will make sure the
:12:27. > :12:30.negotiating mandate we have is ambitious and will ensure the
:12:31. > :12:41.brightest future for the whole United Kingdom.
:12:42. > :12:43.With your permission, Mr Speaker, I will answer this question with
:12:44. > :12:52.I said on the 28th of July the Government will consider
:12:53. > :12:55.all the component parts of the Hinkley Point C proposed project
:12:56. > :13:02.We will do just that, and the Prime Minister
:13:03. > :13:14.said this week, a decision will be research next month.
:13:15. > :13:17.On my recent summer surgery tour, a number of constituents raised
:13:18. > :13:20.concerns about the cost to the taxpayer of the Hinkley Point C
:13:21. > :13:29.Barclays estimated that even if EDF that delivers four years
:13:30. > :13:32.late, and 25% over budget, it would still make a profit
:13:33. > :13:34.on the deal, with the deficit being picked up
:13:35. > :13:42.over the next 35 years by ordinary people.
:13:43. > :13:44.Does the Minister think such a public subsidy provides value
:13:45. > :13:45.for the taxpayer?
:13:46. > :13:49.As I said in my answer, we are looking at all components of the
:13:50. > :13:52.deal and will make a decision before the end of the month.
:13:53. > :13:55.I do think it is a responsible act on the part of
:13:56. > :13:58.the Government to consider our energy supplies for the future in
:13:59. > :14:02.I know the Scottish Government has turned its face
:14:03. > :14:08.We regard that as an important part of a diverse
:14:09. > :14:15.energy mix that gives resilience to UK consumers.
:14:16. > :14:25.Given that the Brexit vote has thrown the energy sector further
:14:26. > :14:35.uncertainty, and given that we know that energy from renewable sources
:14:36. > :14:38.Hinkley is completed, is it
:14:39. > :14:40.not time for the UK to follow the Scottish
:14:41. > :14:48.Government's example and
:14:49. > :14:50.embrace cheaper, safer and more plans for alternatives to nuclear?
:14:51. > :14:52.Winston Churchill said that in energy,
:14:53. > :14:53.diversity and the rest is
:14:54. > :14:57.I think those are wise words and we are wise
:14:58. > :15:01.to have a range of energy sources, now and in the future.
:15:02. > :15:04.I strongly support the Prime Minister's decision on this, given
:15:05. > :15:06.that China insists on trying to hack not
:15:07. > :15:08.only state agencies as well as
:15:09. > :15:20.our commercial companies, putting two fingers up to the arbitration
:15:21. > :15:23.Court in the Hague, these are people through with which we should sup
:15:24. > :15:28.with a long spoon, and I commend the paper written
:15:29. > :15:31.by the intelligence committee under Sir Malcolm Rifkind
:15:32. > :15:50.made is to look at all components of the proposed deal and to make our
:15:51. > :15:54.We will report to the House when we have
:15:55. > :15:57.done that and reports on a decision at that point.
:15:58. > :16:00.The Government is very wise to take a deep breath before committing
:16:01. > :16:02.itself to the massive cost of Hinkley.
:16:03. > :16:03.Evidence is mounting all
:16:04. > :16:06.In particular, fusion rather than vision,
:16:07. > :16:11.I do commend the Government for considering this decision very
:16:12. > :16:19.I am grateful to my right honourable friend.
:16:20. > :16:24.I think it is important for such an important decision to make
:16:25. > :16:27.sure a new Government looks at all the components.
:16:28. > :16:31.Looking to the future for energy supply, I think it
:16:32. > :16:34.is important and we benefit from the full range of technologies,
:16:35. > :16:36.including some of the ones he mentioned.
:16:37. > :16:39.This came in on question one, I haven't forgotten it, even if he
:16:40. > :16:58.There is a company based in my constituency that is the preferred
:16:59. > :17:05.supplier for reinforced steel to build Hinkley Point C.
:17:06. > :17:26.Would the Secretary of State please update the House
:17:27. > :17:30.The honourable lady is right that we,
:17:31. > :17:32.across all different forms of
:17:33. > :17:34.energy generation, need to upgrade our capacity
:17:35. > :17:37.Doing that will have important advantages for other companies,
:17:38. > :17:39.including steel suppliers, right across the United Kingdom.
:17:40. > :17:42.In terms of a decision on Hinkley, we will
:17:43. > :17:50.Can my right honourable friend confirm that,
:17:51. > :17:57.proposed nuclear power station at Hinkley Point C,
:17:58. > :18:12.The decision is on the particular contract difference at Hinkley Point
:18:13. > :18:16.C, that is what we are reviewing and we will take that decision
:18:17. > :18:27.I'd like to welcome the front bench to their new positions,
:18:28. > :18:31.along with my stalker friend.
:18:32. > :18:36.After putting 25,000 highly skilled jobs at risk, after
:18:37. > :18:38.jeopardising 500 much-needed stem apprenticeships,
:18:39. > :18:39.after offending the
:18:40. > :18:43.Chinese Government and risking billions
:18:44. > :19:02.the UK economy, after sending shock waves to the investment community
:19:03. > :19:04.who think the PM now doesn't understand the meaning
:19:05. > :19:07.investment possession, does the Secretary of State agree
:19:08. > :19:09.with those in the industry who think that the
:19:10. > :19:11.Prime Minister's courses approach now looks like dithering?
:19:12. > :19:14.I prefer the Prime Minister's cautious approach to the approach of
:19:15. > :19:16.the honourable gentleman, which is completely
:19:17. > :19:17.inconsistent, as far as I
:19:18. > :19:21.He criticises the Government for reviewing this
:19:22. > :19:25.important decision, but says at the same time we should take
:19:26. > :19:27.three months to seriously review the
:19:28. > :19:30.There is a contradiction in his position.
:19:31. > :19:34.But it doesn't surprise me, because it is the
:19:35. > :19:50.complete absence of an energy policy during the 13 years of the previous
:19:51. > :19:52.Labour governments, that we knew nuclear power stations
:19:53. > :19:55.were going to come to the end of their life,
:19:56. > :19:57.this Government is making decisions in a proper,
:19:58. > :20:00.the lost time under the Labour years.
:20:01. > :20:05.I am delighted the Prime Minister has asked me to leap the historic
:20:06. > :20:10.task of leading a proper industrial strategy for this country.
:20:11. > :20:13.We have a once in a generation chance to
:20:14. > :20:16.embrace the new opportunities of our global role and upgrade our economy
:20:17. > :20:19.We will work with industry, local leaders,
:20:20. > :20:22.innovators, employees and consumers to create conditions for future
:20:23. > :20:32.May I also take the opportunity to congratulate the entire front bench
:20:33. > :20:39.The words industrial strategy often conjure up
:20:40. > :20:40.images of manufacturing and heavy industry.
:20:41. > :21:04.Can the Secretary of State confirm that...
:21:05. > :21:06.The service industry will be covered with comprehensive strategies?
:21:07. > :21:08.It seems to me that in projecting forward how
:21:09. > :21:10.we are going to earn a
:21:11. > :21:12.living as a nation, we look to our strengths.
:21:13. > :21:17.It is correct that the
:21:18. > :21:20.service sector is one of our greatest assets.
:21:21. > :21:22.We must create the conditions for that prosper in the
:21:23. > :21:25.Then I also welcome the secretary of state
:21:26. > :21:28.ambitious, interesting and challenging brief.
:21:29. > :21:31.I wish him and his team all the best.
:21:32. > :21:33.Can the secretary of state state precisely exactly how
:21:34. > :21:35.this new industrial strategy marks a change
:21:36. > :21:36.in Government approach to
:21:37. > :21:40.collaborate with business and intervention in the economy, or is
:21:41. > :21:43.it just a name change to the old approach?
:21:44. > :21:46.I would welcome the involvement of the new
:21:47. > :21:48.Select Committee, which I think will be
:21:49. > :21:49.important, and making sure we
:21:50. > :21:52.capture everything we need to make a success of this.
:21:53. > :21:55.I don't think it is brand-new in that we build on
:21:56. > :21:58.We talked with the Honourable gentleman's colleague on
:21:59. > :22:09.We know that has been a strong source
:22:10. > :22:13.The environment we created with firms in the sector,
:22:14. > :22:15.capacities and scientific institutions has been crucial to
:22:16. > :22:18.We will build on the strong foundations and expressed very
:22:19. > :22:31.As the Government formulates its industrial strategy, and urge my
:22:32. > :22:33.right honourable friend to look at the small business American
:22:34. > :22:46.I'm grateful to my honourable friend who is very well informed
:22:47. > :22:49.to translate research success into small business success.
:22:50. > :22:59.I'm sure we can talk further about it.
:23:00. > :23:05.I welcome the new team, but I'm sure even the secretary
:23:06. > :23:10.this isn't going to be a full English Brexit, it's going to be a
:23:11. > :23:13.Thank you much, I'm going to be here all week.
:23:14. > :23:16.On a industrial strategy, one of the problems we face
:23:17. > :23:18.is that many parts of the
:23:19. > :23:22.Areas have one industry like tourism, iron
:23:23. > :23:32.Will he make sure that we take this opportunity to invest in those areas
:23:33. > :23:34.to increase productivity in those forgotten areas?
:23:35. > :23:42.The right honourable gentleman is good at the
:23:43. > :23:44.one-liners, and the creative industries are a great source of
:23:45. > :23:58.I would say, if you look around the world at some
:23:59. > :24:03.particular, they have developed in a way that they have resilience
:24:04. > :24:11.industry. where the was the single, dominant
:24:12. > :24:14.That is precisely why we want to work with local leaders
:24:15. > :24:26.sure we strengthen the resilience of our regional centres.
:24:27. > :24:29.I welcome the Minister for consumer affairs,
:24:30. > :24:35.As part of my strategy, I hope my right honourable friend will
:24:36. > :24:37.recognise the importance of science and innovation.
:24:38. > :24:46.In my constituency, we are a microcosm in the future of
:24:47. > :24:49.Britain, linking science with high tech, and I hope that it
:24:50. > :24:50.will feature strongly in his strategy.
:24:51. > :24:53.The strength of science, not least in Oxfordshire,
:24:54. > :24:57.It will absolutely be in the heart of
:24:58. > :25:01.Secretary of State, how will he ensure that future
:25:02. > :25:05.industrial strategy is mindful of Northern Ireland's particular
:25:06. > :25:07.reliance on EU support and access to the common market?
:25:08. > :25:14.As I said earlier, we will make sure that we
:25:15. > :25:16.work with our colleagues across the United Kingdom.
:25:17. > :25:19.I had a productive meeting with Simon Hamilton during
:25:20. > :25:22.the summer to make sure that we coordinate our efforts
:25:23. > :25:24.with those of policymakers in Northern Ireland.
:25:25. > :25:28.It needs to be joined up, it will be,
:25:29. > :25:30.and we will make sure that our negotiating mandate
:25:31. > :25:33.reflects contributions from across the UK.
:25:34. > :25:35.Mr Speaker, I join others in welcoming
:25:36. > :25:48.The country is very badly unbalanced at the moment,
:25:49. > :25:50.we will support any realistic thoroughgoing industrial strategy
:25:51. > :25:58.We know how the strategy's gone over the summer.
:25:59. > :26:06.Sports Direct paying less than minimum wage.
:26:07. > :26:08.Meanwhile, the companies are being called fat and lazy.
:26:09. > :26:10.There is still no clear and unambiguous progress on
:26:11. > :26:14.It has been over two years since the consultation
:26:15. > :26:20.When will he make clear that the pensions of tens
:26:21. > :26:22.of thousands of loyal, hard-working steelworkers
:26:23. > :26:29.When it comes to the steel industry, it is
:26:30. > :26:37.very important industry in our country.
:26:38. > :26:41.I grew up in Teesside, where it was particularly prominent.
:26:42. > :26:44.I've had some very productive discussions during the summer,
:26:45. > :26:47.including visiting South Wales, to make sure that the government can
:26:48. > :26:50.give the right support to a sustainable future for the steel
:26:51. > :26:55.They have been very constructive discussions and I'm
:26:56. > :26:58.very happy to make sure that he is aware of them.
:26:59. > :27:16.Solar deployment has been a real UK success story, with almost 11
:27:17. > :27:23.Of course, it is appropriate to allow now for a period of stability
:27:24. > :27:25.following the changes made to protect consumer bills.
:27:26. > :27:27.The Secretary of State continues to keep
:27:28. > :27:33.the performance of the scheme under review.
:27:34. > :27:35.The PricewaterhouseCoopers report in July showed almost 60% of
:27:36. > :27:39.companies are looking to diversify away from
:27:40. > :27:41.solar, and nearly four in
:27:42. > :27:44.ten considering leaving the solar market entirely as a result of your
:27:45. > :27:48.What steps will the Minister take to avoid business
:27:49. > :27:54.confidence in this important sector dropping further?
:27:55. > :27:55.There is remarkably little sign that
:27:56. > :27:58.confidence is dropping in the sector.
:27:59. > :27:59.There is recognition that
:28:00. > :28:05.those changes had to be made, and the sector has responded
:28:06. > :28:07.remarkably resiliently to the changes made.
:28:08. > :28:10.Let us not forget that they have also been spreading expertise in
:28:11. > :28:25.I welcome the team to their new roles.
:28:26. > :28:27.Kingspan, a significant employer in my constituency
:28:28. > :28:33.contacted me regarding concerns about the re-evaluations of business
:28:34. > :28:37.The result is a six to eight fold increase in
:28:38. > :28:41.Would my friend agreed to meet with representatives from the
:28:42. > :28:43.company to see how these effects can be mitigated?
:28:44. > :28:48.I know the company well, it has substantial operation in
:28:49. > :28:55.Of course, it is right to acknowledge that valuations
:28:56. > :28:58.in this area are made by the independent evaluation office.
:28:59. > :29:01.The department liaising with the
:29:02. > :29:04.industry and the office on this issue, but I certainly would be
:29:05. > :29:07.delighted to meet with the company and him to discuss it.
:29:08. > :29:12.Has the Minister done any analysis of the
:29:13. > :29:15.relationship of payback periods for commercial and rooftop solar,
:29:16. > :29:18.particularly school solar, in relation to that proposed hike in
:29:19. > :29:27.Does he intend to change tariffs if the valuation comes into
:29:28. > :29:33.I simply repeat that the matter is under review.
:29:34. > :29:36.We haven't seen what the agency proposes, and
:29:37. > :29:41.we will look at it closely when we see what they have done.
:29:42. > :29:47.The Minister talks about stability, by
:29:48. > :29:54.which he is referring to a 93% drop in solar installations this year.
:29:55. > :29:59.After a 64% cut in subsidy to solar, an eight fold hike in the proposed
:30:00. > :30:01.business rates, it would appear that the next attack on solar
:30:02. > :30:05.Can the Minister confirm whether it is by
:30:06. > :30:11.incompetence or by calculation that changes to charges put forward by
:30:12. > :30:14.the regulator to end the unfair advantage to highly polluting diesel
:30:15. > :30:16.generators, will in fact negatively impact on small-scale renewables
:30:17. > :30:25.I think it is widely understood, Mr Speaker, that the
:30:26. > :30:27.sector needed some changes to the feed in tariffs,
:30:28. > :30:30.because the effect of them was to hit consumers very
:30:31. > :30:40.Let's not forget that 99% of all solar panels
:30:41. > :30:44.installed have been installed over the last six years.
:30:45. > :30:51.With permission, Mr Speaker, I will answer six with
:30:52. > :30:56.This government supports innovation, soon to be part of UK
:30:57. > :31:05.It has invested over ?1.8 billion in innovation since 2007.
:31:06. > :31:07.Innovators connecting businesses to local
:31:08. > :31:11.growth through its regional managers.
:31:12. > :31:13.There is also support through ?200 million of local growth
:31:14. > :31:31.As Chairman of the Space Committee, the space industry has
:31:32. > :31:34.outgrown the economy by 10% or through the austerity years.
:31:35. > :31:37.The space industry is worried about the
:31:38. > :31:39.issues caused by Brexit even though it is outside
:31:40. > :31:41.the European Union.
:31:42. > :31:44.Which he give us your reassurance that the industry will
:31:45. > :31:47.We recognise the value of space to our economy
:31:48. > :31:50.and are working closely with industry to understand their
:31:51. > :31:52.Also working closely across government to understand the
:31:53. > :31:55.impact of the referendum and all the opportunities associated
:31:56. > :31:57.with it, and will continue to do this as we
:31:58. > :31:59.shape our future relationship with European Union.
:32:00. > :32:06.The success of our agricultural industry is dependent on the latest
:32:07. > :32:13.innovations in agricultural science and technology driven forward by
:32:14. > :32:15.world leading research centres like the one
:32:16. > :32:18.What assurances can the Minister give
:32:19. > :32:22.that agri- food research will continue to play an important role
:32:23. > :32:24.in the government's overall strategy for supporting innovation
:32:25. > :32:26.and ultimately delivering food security?
:32:27. > :32:30.This government is investing ?160 million in agri- tech, including
:32:31. > :32:33.incentives for agricultural innovation to ensure that our world
:32:34. > :32:38.leading science is improving productivity and farms.
:32:39. > :32:40.In addition, a UK wide food innovation
:32:41. > :32:43.network which is to be launched very shortly,
:32:44. > :32:45.will give businesses greater access to technology and
:32:46. > :32:51.Will the Minister ensure that the devolved legislatures right
:32:52. > :32:54.across the United Kingdom, the relevant ministers there, are
:32:55. > :32:59.brought together to ensure the best practice in innovation right across
:33:00. > :33:01.the United Kingdom is not just replicated
:33:02. > :33:02.but brought forward in
:33:03. > :33:07.each of the relevant sections across the UK?
:33:08. > :33:10.Mr Speaker, we are working closely with the devolved
:33:11. > :33:14.administrations as we put through the creation of UK research and
:33:15. > :33:19.Excellent science and innovation will be supported through
:33:20. > :33:22.this new body, and we look forward to continuing
:33:23. > :33:30.science and innovation wherever it is found in the United Kingdom.
:33:31. > :33:34.Innovation is key to our regional economies,
:33:35. > :33:37.helping to create high skilled, well-paid jobs.
:33:38. > :33:39.Innovation needs investment and research and
:33:40. > :33:43.development, and small businesses to make a success of new ideas.
:33:44. > :33:48.European funding has helped grow our regional
:33:49. > :33:54.innovation infrastructure, the Northeast alone receives ?130
:33:55. > :33:59.million in research funding from now until 2020.
:34:00. > :34:02.While 72% of EU funding to UK businesses goes to small and
:34:03. > :34:05.Will the minister commit to matching the
:34:06. > :34:08.funding for innovation which currently comes from the European
:34:09. > :34:16.Mr Speaker, we have been monitoring the impact, or any
:34:17. > :34:22.impact, on our research institutions and businesses since the referendum.
:34:23. > :34:27.The announcement on August the 13th by HM Treasury that it will
:34:28. > :34:30.underwrite for the life of the project or competitively bid
:34:31. > :34:40.funding that is applied for before departure.
:34:41. > :34:53.That shows our determination to take action were ever necessary.
:34:54. > :35:02.Consumer product safety is a government priority.
:35:03. > :35:05.We have an effective system of product recall and have
:35:06. > :35:06.established a steering group to
:35:07. > :35:07.consider recommendations in
:35:08. > :35:11.We will engage with the London Fire Brigade
:35:12. > :35:13.on their campaign as part of
:35:14. > :35:28.You'll be aware of the fire in Shepherd's Bush tower block last
:35:29. > :35:30.month caused by a defective tumble drier.
:35:31. > :35:32.The woman could do nothing to
:35:33. > :35:34.stop the fire destroying her home and 25 others.
:35:35. > :35:37.Does the Minister agree that such drivers can continue
:35:38. > :35:45.to be used if not unattended is irresponsible and dangerous, and
:35:46. > :35:50.I was shocked to hear about the serious fire in the
:35:51. > :35:51.Honourable member's constituency and understand
:35:52. > :35:52.his concerns about the
:35:53. > :36:02.The advice being provided by the Whirlpool is
:36:03. > :36:06.based on a full risk assessment of the products that has been agreed
:36:07. > :36:09.with Peterborough City Council trading standards, who are the lead
:36:10. > :36:10.enforcement of authority for Whirpool.
:36:11. > :36:12.Trading standards will continue to monitor the situation
:36:13. > :36:15.and do have powers to order further action if they consider
:36:16. > :36:20.it appropriate.
:36:21. > :36:22.Two tumble dryer fires each day in this country,
:36:23. > :36:24.almost 2500 since the start of 2012.
:36:25. > :36:26.Will the Minister ensure there are fireproof
:36:27. > :36:29.labels on all tumble dryers with make, model, serial number,
:36:30. > :36:31.so that when fires do occur they can be
:36:32. > :36:38.I thank my honourable friend for his question.
:36:39. > :36:41.Although there have been the serious fires, they do actually
:36:42. > :36:44.represents less than 0.2% of the total numbers
:36:45. > :36:57.So we have to keep these things in perspective.
:36:58. > :37:00.The Linfolds Woods review that provides an overview of the current
:37:01. > :37:04.And the independent recall review group,
:37:05. > :37:07.comprised of industry safety experts and the chief fire officers
:37:08. > :37:11.Association, will complete the work on these recommendations.
:37:12. > :37:19.As a department, where absolutely committed to ensuring
:37:20. > :37:22.only safe products are placed on the market,
:37:23. > :37:26.Given the risks associated with misuse of
:37:27. > :37:30.these pens, we are reviewing what more we can do to protect
:37:31. > :37:38.Last year, there was over 1300 incidents where certain laser
:37:39. > :37:42.pens were used to target aircraft and infrastructure.
:37:43. > :37:46.Will he support the bill to regulate the sale of
:37:47. > :37:50.these pens, supported by the British airline
:37:51. > :37:58.Can I congratulate my friend for his persistence and passion
:37:59. > :38:00.this very important issue, because there are significant
:38:01. > :38:12.I assure him that the government is taking very seriously
:38:13. > :38:15.and there is a cross Whitehall group looking urgently now at our options,
:38:16. > :38:19.including the case for further legislation.
:38:20. > :38:21.I am happy in that context to meet him.
:38:22. > :38:25.Would the Minister help the leading manufacturer of laser pens in my
:38:26. > :38:28.constituency, was a great supporter of the northern Powerhouse, and will
:38:29. > :38:30.be attending Thursday's big conference in Yorkshire.
:38:31. > :38:33.On innovation and creativity in Yorkshire.
:38:34. > :38:36.What he wants to know is
:38:37. > :38:41.why Lord O'Neill was suddenly pulled as a speaker,
:38:42. > :38:47.no substitute offered, and we hear that the government will
:38:48. > :38:50.not have anything to do with elected mayors or northern powerhouse.
:38:51. > :39:05.Can we talk about laser pens, rather than the
:39:06. > :39:23.I refute any suggestion we have lost commitment to the northern
:39:24. > :39:26.powerhouse. He is a well-known exponent of the shoehorning
:39:27. > :39:28.technique. Whatever he wants to raise, he shoehorns in to a
:39:29. > :39:31.question, somehow. Let me take this
:39:32. > :39:33.opportunity to refute absolutely any suggestion
:39:34. > :39:35.that the government has lost any commitment to the northern
:39:36. > :39:37.powerhouse in terms I welcome the question
:39:38. > :39:51.from a colleague I have enjoyed watching at work,
:39:52. > :39:54.his incisive questioning of a He is now directing
:39:55. > :39:56.that questioning to me, The department has
:39:57. > :40:00.received a copy of the PwC great success story
:40:01. > :40:06.over the past years. The goal now is to try
:40:07. > :40:08.and move the industry towards the
:40:09. > :40:10.capacity to deliver without subsidy. I thank the Minister for his
:40:11. > :40:22.generous comments, and also for chairing my Select Committee,
:40:23. > :40:26.I wish him well in the new role. PwC suggests a third
:40:27. > :40:36.of solar jobs have been lost in the last year,
:40:37. > :40:39.and many more companies expect to lose
:40:40. > :40:42.staff in the next 12 months. It has been suggested
:40:43. > :40:43.that rate changes Will the Government
:40:44. > :40:54.taken in to account these measures and do something
:40:55. > :40:57.positive for the industry? I share the concerns
:40:58. > :40:59.about job losses as a result of changes
:41:00. > :41:01.in the I made some points about the way
:41:02. > :41:05.the industry has changed, and your report picked out
:41:06. > :41:07.the resilience of the industry and its capacity to respond
:41:08. > :41:09.to change, It's noticeable that
:41:10. > :41:12.of many schemes are already viable without subsidy
:41:13. > :41:16.in certain circumstances. The key now is to move
:41:17. > :41:26.further towards that. We will look very closely
:41:27. > :41:28.towards the issues raised on valuation
:41:29. > :41:30.highlighted today. With your permission,
:41:31. > :41:32.I will answer this question The Government has made it clear
:41:33. > :41:39.we are open for business and
:41:40. > :41:40.determined to make EU, including seizing
:41:41. > :41:42.the opportunity to negotiate our
:41:43. > :41:44.own trade agreements. I believe leaving the EU offers
:41:45. > :41:46.great opportunity for British My constituency has
:41:47. > :41:54.a business which works It is very complex
:41:55. > :41:58.and has a registration He is concerned his
:41:59. > :42:10.business will be hampered. Will my honourable friend be
:42:11. > :42:18.vigilant of issues like this, to
:42:19. > :42:20.make sure that we are able We want to make sure
:42:21. > :42:26.the new relationship with the EU works for British businesses,
:42:27. > :42:27.and his constituents raises
:42:28. > :42:31.an important issue. We need to have clarity
:42:32. > :42:40.I'm sure we can arrange a meeting to discuss it.
:42:41. > :42:47.Does the Minister welcome the figures that predict our exports
:42:48. > :43:00.will go up after the referendum results?
:43:01. > :43:03.And will he confirm businesses who he has spoken to that
:43:04. > :43:06.are positive about our potential future?
:43:07. > :43:08.I voted remain and believe that we should
:43:09. > :43:10.talk up our prospects are
:43:11. > :43:28.The chairman I have spoken to have expressed some
:43:29. > :43:31.desire for more certainty but we are fundamentally optimistic
:43:32. > :43:35.There is a British jurisdiction that is entirely accessed by road, air
:43:36. > :43:37.and by sea through another European Union member
:43:38. > :43:38.state, and that is the
:43:39. > :43:40.British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar.
:43:41. > :43:42.They are absolutely of the opinion they need to retain
:43:43. > :43:45.access to the single European market.
:43:46. > :43:47.What discussions has he had with Gibraltarian counterparts
:43:48. > :43:51.to ensure that happens?
:43:52. > :43:54.We are engaged with a series of discussions with stakeholders and
:43:55. > :44:05.Will the Minister or his team meet with the leader of the official
:44:06. > :44:07.opposition in Northern Ireland, where we have an excellent document
:44:08. > :44:14.on the vision of the future of Northern Ireland after Brexit?
:44:15. > :44:17.The short answer is yes, we are very keen to
:44:18. > :44:23.ideas on how we meet this fundamental and exciting challenge
:44:24. > :44:26.of how we transition to a post-Brexit world that works for
:44:27. > :44:48.The Department of business energy and industrial strategy was formed
:44:49. > :44:52.on the 14th of July, and it is my privilege to serve
:44:53. > :44:56.We are creating a new focus on industrial strategy.
:44:57. > :45:02.This is a powerful department, out of the task of promoting
:45:03. > :45:03.a competitor, low carbon economy.
:45:04. > :45:05.And an economy that works for everyone.
:45:06. > :45:09.As part of an excellent team of ministers and officials, I will
:45:10. > :45:10.continue to work both locally and globally
:45:11. > :45:27.The Swansea Bay tidal lagoon, along the Cardiff Bay,
:45:28. > :45:30.new port and Bridgwater Bay has the potential to create huge
:45:31. > :45:32.Second largest rise and fall in the world's tides.
:45:33. > :45:35.When are we going to get a result, we need
:45:36. > :45:38.long-term funding for a project which will reach 8% of our energy?
:45:39. > :45:42.My understanding is that the feasibility study is being
:45:43. > :45:49.I haven't received its final conclusions yet.
:45:50. > :45:52.At that point, I will look with the same
:45:53. > :45:59.The European Commission says that Apple should
:46:00. > :46:08.taxes for revenues created across the EU, including the UK.
:46:09. > :46:10.Most businesses pay their fair share of
:46:11. > :46:13.taxes and expects all other businesses, large or small, to do
:46:14. > :46:17.Can the Secretary of State confirm he is doing everything he
:46:18. > :46:21.can to make sure the very biggest companies pay up, and also that we
:46:22. > :46:28.receive our share of the ?13 billion Apple tax pie?
:46:29. > :46:33.The responsibilities that come with being in business in this
:46:34. > :46:36.country and paying taxes that contribute to
:46:37. > :46:40.public services that we enjoy as part of that.
:46:41. > :46:43.He does have my assurance that we will make
:46:44. > :46:46.sure that we pursue the
:46:47. > :46:50.correct tax by all companies that locate here.
:46:51. > :46:53.On Thursday I'll be chairing a panel at the enterprise innovation and
:46:54. > :47:02.In developing an industrial strategy,
:47:03. > :47:19.does the Minister agree with me that we need
:47:20. > :47:22.to do to win more hearts and minds in the North.
:47:23. > :47:24.More examples of regional procurement and more
:47:25. > :47:26.jobs in the North, particularly with HS2 perhaps
:47:27. > :47:30.The passion with which my honourable friend
:47:31. > :47:35.opportunities that are in our industrial strategy to make sure
:47:36. > :47:37.that growth is across the United Kingdom,
:47:38. > :47:41.He will know I have taken great interest in this and my previous
:47:42. > :47:44.roles, he can be assured that interest will not be diminishing.
:47:45. > :47:49.The current review of network charging for small embedded
:47:50. > :47:52.generators will mean huge increases in the costs of these small
:47:53. > :48:00.Is the department just determined to make energy generation
:48:01. > :48:13.What we have to do is strike a balance between looking to drive
:48:14. > :48:16.down the costs of all sources of low carbon generation,
:48:17. > :48:19.the best value for consumers and taxpayers.
:48:20. > :48:23.That includes reviews of
:48:24. > :48:29.Can the Minister ensure that breaks and financial services, and tourism
:48:30. > :48:36.sectors, as we approach European negotiations?
:48:37. > :48:43.I can assure the honourable member that we plan to put at the heart of
:48:44. > :48:45.industrial strategy science and innovation,
:48:46. > :48:47.financial services as
:48:48. > :48:50.part of the services sector will also play an important
:48:51. > :48:56.Last week, the Government committed to ratifying the Paris climate
:48:57. > :49:03.Will it commit to doing so for the next conference
:49:04. > :49:11.in Morocco so the Government can play a full role in that summit?
:49:12. > :49:15.We helped shape the Paris agreement, we said
:49:16. > :49:16.we will ratify as soon as
:49:17. > :49:26.Britain is undoubtedly a world leader in scientific research.
:49:27. > :49:32.Will my right honourable friend detail
:49:33. > :49:35.what role science will pay to the the Government's
:49:36. > :49:42.It will position the UK as a leader for the 21st-century.
:49:43. > :49:58.The UK bio economy is worth billions, 36%...
:49:59. > :50:02.The potential is there to grow, and will continue
:50:03. > :50:06.The Secretary of State is a thoughtful man who, I believe, is
:50:07. > :50:11.Will he assured me I'm right in this understanding by cancelling his
:50:12. > :50:14.predecessor's decision to centralise department functions in London.
:50:15. > :50:18.Thereby maintaining and building upon its presence in Sheffield?
:50:19. > :50:22.I would say that I am certainly very attached to the work done in
:50:23. > :50:27.Sheffield, and the valued colleagues we have up there.
:50:28. > :50:31.The decision has made some time ago, and many changes
:50:32. > :50:38.As we sort out the responsibilities of different parts
:50:39. > :50:41.of the departments, I'll look carefully at what Sheffield can
:50:42. > :50:55.What can be done to make sure community energy schemes are viable?
:50:56. > :50:57.As explained previously, the Government
:50:58. > :50:58.is very committed to the
:50:59. > :51:01.deployment of renewable energy, and has had
:51:02. > :51:11.The expansion of Heathrow would create demand for 370,000 tonnes of
:51:12. > :51:19.So it is not only in the interest of the UK economy generally that we
:51:20. > :51:23.expand Heathrow, but specifically in the interest of the manufacturing
:51:24. > :51:32.So why don't we just get on with it, have the vote
:51:33. > :51:39.chamber, and get on with building the third runway?
:51:40. > :51:40.Across many different forms of infrastructure,
:51:41. > :51:43.we do need an upgrade in the infrastructure we have.
:51:44. > :51:45.That'll have many important benefit to the steel
:51:46. > :51:50.It's hugely encouraging the Government is developing this
:51:51. > :51:58.industrial strategy, which I believe for great boost
:51:59. > :51:59.and confidence to our steel industry.
:52:00. > :52:02.Can the Minister update a House what discussions he has had
:52:03. > :52:07.I have had extensive discussions with these steel industry.
:52:08. > :52:11.It is important we should have a is a
:52:12. > :52:20.stable future for what is an important factor in our economy.
:52:21. > :52:22.A huge shipping company has gone into receivership,
:52:23. > :52:29.The inability to dock has impacted on UK retail,
:52:30. > :52:32.critically juddering Christmas trading...
:52:33. > :52:49.What action is he taking to assist traders and our seafarers?
:52:50. > :52:52.In terms of immediate impact, the Local
:52:53. > :52:55.Enterprise Partnership are engaged with making sure the delays are
:52:56. > :53:07.Many will commend the Minister for putting science at the centre
:53:08. > :53:12.a strategy, but I wonder if as he plans for the future
:53:13. > :53:16.sciences industry if he will work with the Minister of health, because
:53:17. > :53:20.the health service will be critical to the growth of that industry?
:53:21. > :53:23.I was interested to read my honourable friend's article earlier
:53:24. > :53:34.In some point in the Government takes a
:53:35. > :53:36.collective approach on this, I've already
:53:37. > :53:50.Health Secretary on how we can make the most of the NHS
:53:51. > :53:55.Will the Government look again at the unjust 50% Government
:53:56. > :53:58.claw back from the mine workerss' pension service?
:53:59. > :54:01.I will certainly take that away and I'm happy to meet with the
:54:02. > :54:04.honourable leader issued like to inform you more about this outside
:54:05. > :54:12.Does the Department intend to develop a single industrial
:54:13. > :54:15.for the whole country, or have different strategies different parts
:54:16. > :54:19.My honourable friend makes a good point.
:54:20. > :54:22.It seems to me essential that of course we should
:54:23. > :54:25.have a strategy for the whole country, but place is incredibly
:54:26. > :54:30.The challenges of the places like greater Manchester are
:54:31. > :54:35.We should reflect the different strengths and opportunities more
:54:36. > :54:40.clearly in how we do business as a government.
:54:41. > :54:47.Does the Minister accept that changes to subsidy for the CHP
:54:48. > :54:50.biomass plans have been brought in to quickly and longer grace
:54:51. > :54:52.period before an implementation should have
:54:53. > :55:03.In my constituency, a company doing what the government
:55:04. > :55:06.want by investing in renewable technology but stand to lose 3
:55:07. > :55:09.Will he meet with me to discuss these changes?
:55:10. > :55:13.All kindness and charity to the honourable gentleman that he was at
:55:14. > :55:15.his best at the end of the first sentence.
:55:16. > :55:17.A blue pencil should therefore after have been applied.
:55:18. > :55:20.As a former treasurer of the SNP, he knows a bit
:55:21. > :55:22.about the challenges as
:55:23. > :55:26.He knows in the context of these changes, are
:55:27. > :55:31.overriding aim is to provide better value for the tax payer.
:55:32. > :55:33.They will apply to new participants with they
:55:34. > :55:38.Those who fully qualified on or after the
:55:39. > :55:45.1st of August will be subject to the change.
:55:46. > :55:48.If it is a specific issue you wish to raise with me I'll
:55:49. > :55:54.Brexit provides the UK with an opportunity
:55:55. > :55:57.to be the global leader in energy technology.
:55:58. > :56:00.Offshore wind, energy storage and carbon capture.
:56:01. > :56:05.Can the Minister confirm that the government
:56:06. > :56:07.will reset energy policy so that the country can
:56:08. > :56:09.take full advantage of
:56:10. > :56:14.My honourable friend is absolutely right.
:56:15. > :56:17.One of the historic strengths of the United Kingdom is in areas
:56:18. > :56:20.such as marine engineering and power engineering,
:56:21. > :56:23.which is at the heart of the opportunities around the
:56:24. > :56:26.world as many countries look to develop their capacity in renewable
:56:27. > :56:32.This is a big opportunity, especially for his constituency.
:56:33. > :56:35.Can the Secretary of State guarantee that all employment protection
:56:36. > :56:37.currently enjoyed by British workers will be
:56:38. > :56:39.maintained post Brexit and
:56:40. > :56:45.does he back my bill to do just that?
:56:46. > :56:48.We will certainly look carefully at the Honourable Lady's
:56:49. > :56:52.Employment protections are an absolute priority for this
:56:53. > :57:05.The financial viability of many low-carbon on-site heat and
:57:06. > :57:09.power technologies is under threat due to the reduction in the tarrif.
:57:10. > :57:12.Would his department consider having a separate tariff rate for the new
:57:13. > :57:14.technologies rather than being treated the same as other
:57:15. > :57:26.The government is reviewing how the renewable heat incentive
:57:27. > :57:29.works and is being forced to make some changes
:57:30. > :57:32.to tariffs in order to
:57:33. > :57:34.provide better value for the tax payer.
:57:35. > :57:38.I'm more than happy to sit down and talk with him about his
:57:39. > :57:42.Welcome Secretary of State to his place as I do my
:57:43. > :57:50.A new report from a professor of Aberdeen University has
:57:51. > :57:52.found the re-engineering of the fiscal regime may be necessary
:57:53. > :57:54.before we reach the North Sea's potential.
:57:55. > :57:56.What further support will
:57:57. > :57:59.the government bring forward for the oil and gas sector
:58:00. > :58:06.Very productive set of discussions in Aberdeen during the
:58:07. > :58:08.summer with representatives of the oil and gas sector.
:58:09. > :58:10.The industry centred in Aberdeen but involving
:58:11. > :58:13.other places in the country is very important.
:58:14. > :58:16.We have made big changes for the fiscal regime but we'll
:58:17. > :58:30.He earlier described himself as being on a historic task
:58:31. > :58:32.writing industrial strategy.
:58:33. > :58:34.If he studies strategy, it is written primarily by
:58:35. > :58:36.civil servants and ministers tend to fail.
:58:37. > :58:41.engage businesses in Lancashire to make sure we have a successful
:58:42. > :58:43.I'm grateful for my honourable friend's point.
:58:44. > :58:50.It is the case that an industrial strategy for
:58:51. > :58:53.the country should not be instructions from ministers or civil
:58:54. > :58:56.servants to businesses and the rest of the country.
:58:57. > :58:58.We are engaging with businesses all across the country
:58:59. > :59:02.and in every different sector to make sure
:59:03. > :59:11.Does the Secretary of State believe it is conceivable this
:59:12. > :59:13.country can negotiate full membership of the single market
:59:14. > :59:14.without accepting free movement?
:59:15. > :59:16.Mr Speaker, the Honourable gentleman entices me
:59:17. > :59:18.into making early decisions on what our negotiating
:59:19. > :59:26.I think it is the sensible step to be
:59:27. > :59:28.careful and to put together our negotiating
:59:29. > :59:31.brief and to do that in
:59:32. > :59:36.consultation with businesses and every part of the country.
:59:37. > :59:38.Speaker, I welcome the government's and
:59:39. > :59:40.genuine commitment to the Northern Powerhouse.
:59:41. > :59:43.Will the secretary of state meet with me and other leaders
:59:44. > :59:51.I'm always keen to meet the Honourable gentleman,
:59:52. > :59:54.despite the fact that I've moved from one department to another.
:59:55. > :00:09.I hope the invitation to fish and chips still stands!
:00:10. > :00:11.Unparalleled talent, unprecedented access.
:00:12. > :00:15.BBC Two takes a sneaky peek behind the celebrity curtain.
:00:16. > :00:19.Go out there, grab it with both hands and stick it in your mouth.
:00:20. > :00:24.Easy peasy, get yourself a catchphrase.