Anna Gelderd MP: speeches

Speeches

• 2 Feb 2026 · Tolled Crossings and Regional Connectivity · Hansard source

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  My hon. Friend makes an important point about the environmental impacts, which I will come to later. Geography amplifies the pressures, and the water boundaries bring a particular problem. For a standard car journey, it costs £3 to leave Cornwall on both the Tamar bridge and Torpoint ferry. The Cremyll ferry charges £3 per adult for a single journey, and other crossings in that area charge a similar amount. Some local resident concessions exist, but recent proposed increases in admin costs triggered significant concern, because the total amount is unaffordable for many people. The Tamar Toll Action Group, along with myself and other MPs, called for a rethink, and there was an extraordinary meeting of local authorities. Some may argue that the prices are not extreme, but they add up quickly. I was glad that the meeting happened and that changes were considered. Average incomes in South East Cornwall are around 20% below the national median, and residents cross have to use the crossing frequently, so the costs do add up for those in the local communities. There is clear evidence of isolation across parts of South East Cornwall and wider Cornwall. Some communities fall within recognised measures of poor accessibility in both travel time and services. Digital connectivity adds to the pressure, as broadband and mobile coverage remain inconsistent, which limits remote working, access to online services and business development. That reinforces physical isolation rather than easing it. Digital connectivity is increasingly important alongside physical transport. Research by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport highlights the negative impacts of poor broadband on farmers, including reduced productivity, compliance challenges, and limited market access, which is really important for South East Cornwall. High-speed broadband supports economic growth, productivity and educational outcomes. We have the foundations for a modern, flexible economy in South East Cornwall. People want to live there, work there and build businesses there. The well-known “surf and code” model seen in places such as California and Portugal reflects a real opportunity to combine the quality of life in the coastal and rural areas of Devon and Cornwall with work, but that depends on sustained investment in physical connectivity and other types of connectivity, including digital. Currently our public transport does not bridge the gap. Bus services are often infrequent, and ferry services are essential but shaped by the costs that I have mentioned. When disruption occurs, the system offers little flexibility. Bus services in South East Cornwall fell by around 50% between 2010 and 2023. The Conservatives stripped those in our rural and coastal communities of the ability to get around, and then systematically dismantled our public services too. Those pressures have gone on for far too long and communities like mine need support. Cornwall’s rail connectivity depends on a single line through Dawlish. Recent storm damage again highlights the fragility of that route, following the collapse of the sea wall in 2014. Climate change is accelerating faster than our adaptation, and resilience must be built into long-term infrastructure planning. Phase 6 of the Dawlish resilience work and the reopening of the Tavistock line remain shared aspirations for Cornwall and Devon. What comes next must be credible, long-term and capable of carrying the confidence of south-west communities. Existing Department for Transport investment should be leveraged alongside local and regional funding to improve resilience and open new routes. Anyone who has visited Cornwall will know and understand that our road network remains a challenge. Country lanes are often narrow, overgrown and dangerous. The A38, which remains the main route in South East Cornwall, has claimed too many lives—the recent safety upgrades are welcome, and I pay tribute to all involved in making them possible for our area. The transport constraints we face carry economic consequences. Businesses face higher operating costs and reduced labour pools. Tradespeople absorb toll charges that competitors elsewhere simply do not face.

• 2 Feb 2026 · Tolled Crossings and Regional Connectivity · Hansard source

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  I thank the hon. Member for his intervention. I will come to that point later in my speech. There is a clear and well-established link between transport and inequality. Research undertaken in 2019 for the Department for Transport shows that transport shapes life chances through three factors: where people live and their socioeconomic position; where opportunities such as jobs and education are located; and how accessible the transport system is in terms of cost, reliability, geography and journey time. The research also shows that transport does not affect everyone equally; experience changes due to income, location and personal circumstance. In rural and coastal areas such as South East Cornwall, transport that is affordable and reliable could expand our opportunities. Cost is consistently identified as one of the most significant barriers to opportunity. Policies that reduce transport costs help people to access and sustain employment, particularly those on lower incomes. However, that same Department for Transport research makes clear that transport policy works best when embedded in a place-based approach that is linked to the skills, housing, employment and economic opportunities on offer locally. South East Cornwall is shaped by rivers and coastline that define our landscape and our communities. Our connectivity depends on a number of strategic crossings that function as everyday routes to employment, education, healthcare and social connection. Those are not optional journeys; they are essential links within a tightly connected economic and social region. What makes South East Cornwall unusual is the concentration of tolled crossings that residents rely on daily. The Tamar bridge, Torpoint ferry, Cremyll ferry, Polruan ferry and Bodinnick ferry are part of daily life. For many local residents and businesses, one or more of those crossings are used routinely, sometimes multiple times a day. The total cost is significant, and that is simply to participate in ordinary life. This has shaped my constituency for decades. It affects where people can work, which services they can realistically access and how businesses operate. Despite the scale and impact of the crossings, we still have not found a workable long-term solution. Travel from towns and villages in South East Cornwall to Plymouth—our nearest city—often takes far longer than distance alone suggests. Short journeys on a map can become long, expensive and uncertain in practice. The Tamar bridge and Torpoint ferry are the only viable crossings linking South East Cornwall with Plymouth and up-country. Around 16 million vehicle crossings take place each year, with thousands of residents relying on them daily to reach work. There is no practical alternative direct route, meaning that the crossings function as essential infrastructure to local people. The Tamar bridge is publicly owned and jointly operated by Cornwall council and Plymouth city council. In the 1950s, both authorities sought national funding for a fixed crossing. When that funding was not forthcoming, they proceeded with a locally financed scheme funded through tolls. Parliamentary powers were granted through the Tamar Bridge Act 1957, which established the joint committee that continues to operate both the bridge and the ferry as a single business unit, with all operations, maintenance and improvements funded entirely through toll income. The Torpoint ferry is the busiest vehicle crossing of any estuary in the United Kingdom, carrying nearly 2 million vehicles each year, including mine many times. The TamarTag has helped some regular users, including myself, but minimum top-ups, usability issues and recent proposed increases in admin fees have undermined its purpose. The infrastructure must be maintained, but affordability, transparency and trust are also essential. Research in 2019 for the Department for Transport examined the relationship between transport access and life opportunities, and the findings were stark. Access to a personal car makes someone nearly four times more likely to be in employment than not in employment. Access to services follows a similar pattern: those who have access to their own car are twice as likely to reach essential services. Transport also shapes social participation. Car access makes people more likely to maintain social connections, particularly those with mobility impairments and those living in rural areas. Transport therefore affects isolation, wellbeing and quality of life. Geography amplifies those pressures. Water boundaries fragment travel patterns and isolate communities. Where tolls apply, they add a financial barrier on top of the physical separation. For many households, the costs are unavoidable.

• 22 Jan 2026 · Fishing Industry · Hansard source

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  My hon. Friend raises a really important point, and I am grateful to him for referencing my part of the world. Dr Simon Thomas and Dr Bryce Stewart are doing brilliant work locally with fishermen. Their latest report was published just this morning. I will happily share it with Members here, and with the Minister, and I can support a meeting with them, at which Members can learn more about this work and the leading research coming out of south-east Cornwall and the south-west, particularly on pollack fishing. One challenge that our most sustainable fishermen face is the allocation of pollack quota. Rod-and-line fishermen, many of them in boats that are under 10 metres, use one of the most selective and low-impact methods available, yet they are restricted to around 200 kilos a month. That does not even cover genuine bycatch once the bass season opens. Without access to an additional pollock quota, these fishermen are left with no viable options unless they are fortunate enough to secure a tuna licence. A fair rebalancing of pollack quota towards this fleet would support sustainability, reduce waste and keep our small boats working—something that the Minister is particularly passionate about. The last Labour Government left the previous Conservative Government with the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 and a clear map for developing the healthy seas and sustainable stocks that we need. The fisheries Minister, hon. Member for Wallasey (Dame Angela Eagle), has inherited 14 years of poorly managed stocks, which have led to closures; reduced fishing of key species, such as pollack and bass; and an industry that has been restricted by home-grown red tape. That has left our inshore fleet more burdened, less viable, and in a more vulnerable state than ever before. I welcome the work being done to negotiate a new bespoke sanitary and phytosanitary deal that will remove mountains of that red tape, and allow our seafood industry to grow as trading becomes easier. Fishermen in the south-west are also dealing with the unprecedented octopus bloom, which has had a devastating impact locally on crab, lobster and scallop fisheries. For many boats, this has translated into lost income, financial strain, and real concern for their wellbeing. Even if the bloom subsides, there is a serious risk that shellfish stocks will not recover quickly enough to support the potting fleet for many years. I welcome the work that local scientists and fishermen are doing together on this, including the report I mentioned. This is exactly why investment in industry-led science matters; it reflects real conditions on the water, and gives us advice grounded in lived experience. As an independent coastal state, the UK has both the opportunity and responsibility to manage our own waters sustainably. Stronger protection of inshore grounds, including an engine power limit of 221 kW in the 6 to 12-mile zone, applied equally to UK and EU vessels, would safeguard smaller boats and reduce conflict. A clear limit on vessel size inside the 12-mile zone would reflect a well-established standard used by other nations, align with inshore fisheries and conservation authority practice, and give real protection to the smaller inshore boats active in areas like mine. It is vital for our Government to turn this tide and make meaningful change, sort out the inherited mess, and make the most of our valuable national resources of fish and shellfish stocks. To that end, I wish to highlight six points. First, will the Government commission work on a fairer regime—one that moves away from a system where those able to buy and lease quota succeed, while smaller-scale fleets struggle? The regime needs to fund science, data collection, monitoring and enforcement, and to recognise the central role of our small boats in coastal communities. That would support a just transition by prioritising low-impact fishing, social value and the long-term stewardship of our seas, while aligning fishing activity with marine protected areas. Secondly, will the Minister do all she can to get to the bottom of the inshore vessel monitoring and catch app failures that occurred due to the last Government’s red tape? The industry warned that the inshore vessel monitoring system was not robust, and that the kit was not fit for purpose. Years later, one device is still not working as it should. While the monitoring kit and the catch app continue to fail, the stress and frustration for fishermen grows. At the very least, we need a clear plan for those systems, and a timetable for fixing them. I would be very grateful if the Minister could set that out. Too much of our commercial stock is data-deficient. That has created uncertainty, which hits small-scale fishermen the hardest. We already expect our fishermen to provide extensive data on location, catch, size and value, but that information is not being fully used. The consequences of overfishing, illegal discarding and pressure from exceeded quota limits damage the marine environment and undermine responsible fishermen. That is why data and science, though perhaps not the most exciting part of our debate, really matter. I urge the Minister to look seriously at how artificial intelligence can be used to unlock the value of the data that we already collect. I raised that point in a written question about fishing in areas such as the Cornish 6 to 12-mile zone, which local fishermen are worried about. Fourthly, the pollack fisheries industry science partnership, led by Doctor Simon Thomas, is working with the Looe fishermen I mentioned earlier. It delivers robust evidence at a fraction of the cost of conventional studies, and has directly informed this year’s total allowable catch for pollack. By contrast, the previous Government spent about £450,000 on a close-kin DNA study that remains unpublished. Fisheries science partnerships, such as the pollack FISP, show that when fishermen are treated as partners, it is possible to get real-time data, trust, and importantly, value for money. I strongly support the use of the fishing and coastal growth fund for industry-led science projects like that, so that benefits stay in our ports, such as Looe, rather than being lost to leasing and speculation. Fifthly, I congratulate Brixham and Newlyn fish markets on a successful year, and particularly thank them for accommodating the sale of landings from our fleets in Looe and Polperro. With the closure of Looe and then Plymouth fish markets, our fishermen face long and costly journeys across Cornwall or into Devon simply to sell their catch. At the tidal ports of Looe and Polperro, where return times shift daily, that creates real logistical pressure. I asked the Minister, when considering the fishing and coastal growth fund, to look at long-term support for securing routes to market for isolated ports. We have discussed that, and I thank her for her engagement.

• 22 Jan 2026 · Fishing Industry · Hansard source

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  I thank my hon. Friend for her intervention. I completely agree that young people in our coastal communities are the future of the industry and the heart of our communities, and we must do all we can to work with them to ensure that they have an industry that is sustainable for the future. Sixthly, I welcome the Government’s commitment to the fishing and coastal growth fund and the fisheries and seafood scheme. I ask the Minister to ensure that the schemes work for small-scale, owner-operator fishermen. Larger businesses have the capacity to prepare their bids and projects, while those with small boats often miss out simply because they lack the administrative time or support. In previous years, we have seen schemes close before many fishermen could even submit an application, something that I know causes real concern and frustration in my community. The last Labour Government addressed that by funding regional support officers to help small fishing businesses develop their plans, gather quotes and complete bids. I urge the Minister to consider restoring those roles, or introducing a similar support system, and basing that support in areas like mine, where small-scale fleets are concentrated, so that help and funding reaches the intended fleets. Finally, we import and eat almost double what we catch and export in seafood. Although we may be a nation of fish and chip lovers, we consume only 20% of what we catch. Given that some of the best seafood in the world comes from our waters, particularly those of South East Cornwall, we can all play a part by choosing locally caught fish at the tills and the checkouts, and by backing our local fishermen, not just with words but with our demand. I recognise those unsung heroes of our fishing industry: the families and loved ones who support the brave fishermen. The unsociable hours and the uncertain work schedules mean that the support of loved ones and families is vital to fishermen; their families keep the home fires burning, and we should pay tribute to all that they do.

• 22 Jan 2026 · Fishing Industry · Hansard source

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  Meur ras, Madam Deputy Speaker. I thank the right hon. Member for Orkney and Shetland (Mr Carmichael) for securing the debate. I start by thanking all those who support our fleets when things go wrong. Having previously worked for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, I have seen how devoted and brave its volunteers are. Many of them are fishermen themselves, and would rush to help others. I pay particular tribute to the men and women of the Looe station, whom I had the pleasure of visiting recently. They really are the best of us. I also pay tribute to the coastguard stations and search and rescue crews. I thank the many charities who do so much to support our communities and fishing families, including Seafarers UK, Fishermen’s Mission and Fishmongers Hall, to name just a few. I also thank Seafood Cornwall Training, which does so much to help new entrants across our region—something I am very passionate about—and runs safety courses for our fishermen. We cannot overstate how important that work is, and how vital continued Government support is if we are to prevent money from being a barrier to safety. We are very lucky to have Clive Palfrey in our patch—a born-and-raised Looe lad, former fisherman, lifeboat launch manager and senior coxswain. He has dedicated his life to fishermen’s safety, and has led many initiatives, including the first roll-out of life jackets with personal locator beacons. Can I ask the Minister to meet Clive and others, so that there is a better understanding that we still face so many tragic losses in this industry—it is the most dangerous peacetime occupation—and to discuss what can be done to prevent further deaths? The fishing communities of Looe and Polperro are iconic. They are woven into the fabric of the town’s heritage and history, but Members should be under no illusion about how diminished they are from their former glory. That is not just because of the greatly reduced number of vessels, but because of how hard it is for them to make a living, and to support their families and communities like mine. Last year’s Great British inshore fishing survey made for grim reading. If we are serious about the future of fishing, we must make it accessible to the next generation. Young people cannot step aboard a fishing vessel until the age of 16, even though that is the prime age for learning practical skills. We also lack structured support and mentoring, which allows traditional knowledge, safety guidelines and best practice to pass between generations. A properly funded mentoring and training pathway, alongside help-to-buy schemes for boats, licences and quota, would make fishing a realistic career again, rather than a closed shop. As bass stocks rebuild, 2026 fishing opportunities are limited to those already permitted to catch bass, which closes the door to new entrants developing skills and landing bass lawfully. This risks locking the next generation out of the industry at the very moment that recovery should be creating new opportunity. Cornwall’s fishing industries and communities have a long and proven history of managing a successful industry, and that record should be recognised. I support the call from the Cornish Fish Producers’ Organisation for a ring-fenced allocation from the fishing and coastal growth fund to deliver a Cornish pilot fishing strategy. We could then take our fishing and seafood sector forward in a stable, confident way as we reset our relationship with the EU. Can the Minister set out when applications to that fishing and coastal communities growth fund will open, the timeline for it, and how funding priorities will be structured—for example, whether allocations will be categorised by science, management, skills or fleet support —so that coastal communities like mine can prepare credible and well-targeted bids?

• 20 Jan 2026 · Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill · Hansard source

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  I align myself with the comments made by my hon. Friend the Member for Halesowen (Alex Ballinger). In South East Cornwall, we may be geographically removed from Diego Garcia, but we are closely connected to the realities of our national defence. Torpoint has the third highest number of veterans of any community, with over 14% of people having served. Residents across the area have written to me about the importance of this issue. His Majesty’s Naval Base Devonport is the largest naval base in western Europe and a key part of our national defence capability, so we are an area that understands the importance of national defence and its complexities. We know that it requires long-term thinking and joint working with multiple allies, each of whom understandably has its own national interests in mind. Does the Minister agree that this matter is about not just international law, but securing Britain’s ability to defend itself, including control over key capabilities such as berthing submarines, electromagnetic defence and force mobility? Given that 85% of the Chagos negotiations took place under the Conservatives, does the Minister know why the Tories started negotiations when they were in government if they did not think there was a threat to the crucial base? As well as defence, South East Cornwall has deep ties to our marine environment, with many local livelihoods dependent on the sea. Our local economy relies on a healthy and resilient marine environment, so it is important to recognise the role of that environment. The Chagos marine protected area was established in 2010. Through the Blue Belt programme, the UK has continued to play a leading role in enhancing marine protection across the overseas territories. For Members who may not be aware, this is a brilliant programme that works with local communities to understand biodiversity, manage impacts and build a deeper understanding between people and nature. The marine protected area is home to extraordinary marine life. Research has shown that it contributes to climate resilience at a global scale. Mauritius has committed to protecting that marine environment, which I welcome. However, as an island state located miles from the base, I have concerns about the practicalities of monitoring and enforcing protections against harmful activity. What provisions in the Bill and the treaty will safeguard the existing marine protected area and ensure that effective enforcement remains in place to prevent harm to the ecosystem and the species that depend on it?

• 13 Jan 2026 · Storm Goretti · Hansard source

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  Meur ras, Madam Deputy Speaker. I align myself with the previous comments regarding the tragic loss of life in Cornwall and add my thanks to the local emergency services, utilities companies and local people who worked tirelessly over the weekend to make sure that arms have been put around the most vulnerable in our community. With its ageing population, South East Cornwall has many vulnerable residents who rely on consistent power and water supplies. The extended outages during Storm Goretti left families in unmanageable conditions, and such storms are only likely to increase if we do not tackle climate change. Will the Government work with utility companies to prioritise vulnerable households and ensure faster restoration times during severe weather events?

• 13 Jan 2026 · Arctic and High North · Hansard source

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  As climate change opens new routes and access to resources, and as we are one of the Arctic’s closest neighbours, how are the Government working with allies to strengthen our collective security in the region in the face of climate change to ensure that the UK is able to protect our long-term interests alongside other partners from non-Arctic states?

• 8 Jan 2026 · Business of the House · Hansard source

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  Meur ras, Madam Deputy Speaker, and happy new year to you and your office. This year provides an opportunity to secure our vital local and national infrastructure, so I ask the Leader of the House for Government time to be allocated to discuss the impact on local residents and businesses of the Tamar bridge and Torpoint ferry tolls, including the recent proposal to increase the monthly admin fee for TamarTag holders. It has resulted in an extraordinary meeting of those responsible for the crossings to be held next week, following opposition from myself, fellow Labour MPs and other local residents.

• 7 Jan 2026 · Rural Communities · Hansard source

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  I will give way—

• 7 Jan 2026 · Rural Communities · Hansard source

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  It is a real pleasure to speak in this debate on behalf of the towns, farms and coastal villages of South East Cornwall. Our rolling hills and dramatic coastline attract visitors from across the country, but they also support our livelihoods, our daily lives and the wellbeing of local residents. A local economy that works for local people year-round means protecting our natural environment, which is vital to our key tourism sector. It also means supporting new industries such as critical minerals via the new Kernow industrial growth fund and providing a voice for traditional industries. As a keen wild swimmer, I care deeply about our Cornish rivers and beaches, so last year I challenged the former chief executive officer of South West Water on the company’s actions. I look forward to seeing stronger accountability and better outcomes for local residents as a result of the new measures on water put forward by this Government. Poor connectivity has held back rural communities for far too long, and I welcome the work in that area. Will the Minister outline what steps are being taken to tackle rural internet deserts, which I experience frequently in my village? Transport also remains a major challenge for rural life, and in South East Cornwall residents often travel long distances just to reach essential services, work or education. Rural communities value our space and our close-knit society, but no one should feel cut off or face extra financial barriers simply because of where they live, so I welcome the £20 million allocated by the Government to Cornwall to improve our bus services and I am determined to ensure that local people feel the benefit of that investment. Under the last Government, rail fares from Liskeard to Paddington rose by 65%, placing yet another burden on rural households. We have put an end to that increase. Healthcare access has been another real problem for my residents, and many residents travel long distances for care, often crossing the Tamar and paying a toll only to face staff shortages, stretched services and long waits. Labour is already bringing down those waiting lists, but rural access requires specific attention, so will the Minister set out how the Government are working to ensure that geography never becomes a barrier to care? Rural communities remember who stands up for them and who delivers the essential services that they need, and in rural areas we have seen the legacy left by the Conservatives. Their mismanagement fed directly into stagnant growth and broken public services, with rural areas paying the price through long hospital waiting times, crumbling school buildings and a public transport network that simply did not work. I and other Cornish Labour MPs have made sure that Cornish rural voices are heard here in Westminster. I have spent time directly speaking with farmers and industry experts, listening to their concerns and building the case for change, and I am pleased to see the increase in the agriculture and business property relief thresholds. Farmers work tirelessly to produce food for our tables, yet their fields are too often used as dumping grounds for waste, so I ask the Minister to outline what further action is under way to tackle the waste crimes that blight our rural community.

• 6 Jan 2026 · Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill · Hansard source

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  I am pleased to support this Bill as the MP for South East Cornwall, which is a constituency of hard-working rural and coastal communities where digital access remains a problem, as there are long distances between services and few alternatives when systems fail. As we know, digital connectivity is a growing necessity for daily life—from traditional farming and fishing businesses to carers supporting vulnerable residents—and access to online job sites, Government websites, and NHS services and emergency support are all part of our new daily existence. Reliable digital infrastructure that is protected from disruption and attack is therefore essential for our economy, public services and community safety. That is why I am supportive of the actions this Government have taken to improve the lives of my communities, such as the digital inclusion innovation fund, which Labour has put in place to tackle the barriers that stop people getting online in the first place; the roll-out of Project Gigabit, ensuring that rural and hard-to-reach areas are not left behind; and the shared rural network, which is an important landmark partnership between Government and mobile network operators that Labour continues to support to eliminate so-called notspots—I have to say I know about them only too well in South East Cornwall—and improve 4G coverage across rural areas such as mine. Improved connectivity and cyber-security can support small businesses, enable remote working, improve access to the NHS services we all need, and help young people build their futures through online training, job opportunities and Government support. They can also strengthen our rural resilience, ensuring communities stay connected during emergencies and are better able to adapt to future challenges. My goal is for South East Cornwall to become a digitally connected, resilient and safe constituency, where no one is left behind because of their rural postcode. I am pleased to have been raising constituents’ concerns with Ministers and working with them to improve that for local residents. Digital systems must also be secure. Cyber-attacks carry real costs for both individual businesses and our wider economy. Businesses in South East Cornwall work hard to provide those services, create local jobs and support our local communities, and there are practical steps that businesses can take. The National Cyber Security Centre provides excellent guidance, but it also matters that businesses know that their Government are acting to protect them as they navigate the growing risks involved in working online. That is why I welcome the action this Bill takes to strengthen our cyber-resilience. May I ask the Minister what is being done on recovery and response planning should incidents occur, as the reality for rural and coastal communities is that outages often last longer and impacts are felt more sharply? The Bill also presents an opportunity to grow skills, learning and employment across the country. Improving cyber-security standards increases demand for skilled professionals, and it creates pathways into good jobs and long-term careers. That matters for us in South East Cornwall, where we want our young people to see a future locally, without needing to leave to succeed. This issue also matters for diversity. Our services are stronger when they are designed and protected by people with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Work in this area can open doors for young girls and women into STEM—science, technology, engineering and maths—careers, and help break down the long-standing barriers felt by women under-represented in tech, whether at entry level, in mid-career progression or in leadership roles. The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology recently welcomed the launch of the women in tech taskforce to bring Government and industry together to identify and dismantle exactly those barriers, and I look forward to seeing the benefits reach the women and girls in South East Cornwall. It is also important to recognise that cyber-resilience is now a key element of our national security and defence readiness. Staying up to date and agile is essential, particularly as advances in Al and quantum computing not only create new methods for testing, strengthening and securing our systems, but present new challenges that we must face. We have world-class research facilities in the UK, with brilliant minds that can support our national security and ensure that the UK is at the forefront and prepared for future attacks. The work the Government are doing through the Bill updates the UK’s existing frameworks so that we can respond to new and emerging threats and better protect our communities, as well as safeguarding sensitive information and personal data, but of course there is room for further work in future. With the nationally important Devonport dockyard just across the river from South East Cornwall, many of my local residents cross the Tamar each day to work on site. A serious cyber-attack could disrupt supply chains, compromise secure communications and undermine operational readiness, with real consequences for local safety, local livelihoods and national defence. Supply chain resilience is especially important in South East Cornwall, as many Cornish businesses support larger providers in defence, energy and infrastructure. Ensuring that our services and local systems are resilient protects both local suppliers and national partners. It is essential that the UK defends itself and protects security at home and abroad, so how will the Minister create clear expectations on wider supply chain cyber-resilience, practical support for smaller suppliers such as those in South East Cornwall, and strong incident recovery planning, so that both major defence infrastructure and the SMEs that support it are protected? For South East Cornwall, the Bill speaks to resilience in the broadest sense. It supports secure services, a stronger economy, new opportunities for skills and jobs, new opportunities for women and girls, and the confidence that the systems we rely on every day are protected. I am glad to support it and the action the Government are taking to keep our digital future safe.

• 10 Dec 2025 · Seasonal Work · Hansard source

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  In South East Cornwall, we truly value, and know the pressures of, seasonal work. It can be unreliable and involve unsociable hours, yet it is hugely valuable and remains a vital part of our Cornish economy. The Government are taking steps to make seasonal work more secure, and to increase fairness. Tourism is a key part of our local economy and supports many livelihoods. It is our wide range of hospitality venues, retail locations and small businesses, powered by hard-working and dedicated staff, that makes such an offer possible. Seasonal work has helped families and local businesses for generations—work in our cafés and restaurants in Looe and Polperro, in our retail shops in Lostwithiel, and picking vegetables and flowers near Liskeard. There are more 18 to 24-year-olds in employment than there were a year ago, and the Employment Rights Bill strengthens good practice in the workforce, helps people into work and protects their wellbeing. I want to thank those involved in local businesses for their hard work, and for the always incredibly interesting visits that they regularly invite me to make, during which they tell me about their concerns and their hopes for the future.

• 10 Dec 2025 · Seasonal Work · Hansard source

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  On that point, it is important to note that businesses such as the Co-op and IKEA are supportive. The Minister mentions red tape; time and again, businesses in my constituency tell me that bureaucracy is holding them back. Will the Minister outline how we will cut red tape further?

• 10 Dec 2025 · Seasonal Work · Hansard source

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  I agree with the hon. Member on certain things, such as the importance of balance, but I will not make a habit of agreeing with him in totality and, no, I think there is a huge number of other points to make about the economy, which I wish to focus on in my speech. I spoke to a local publican last week, and his words struck me. He said that his workforce absolutely deserve support, and are the heart of his business, and it is important to remember that as we move forward with this work. The Conservatives, including the hon. Member, call for the Bill to be scrapped in its entirety, but I struggle to see how that shows respect for seasonal workers. The Conservatives would deny sick pay to lower-paid workers, and expect people to turn up when they are unwell, putting colleagues and customers at risk. The publican talked to me about that and several other things. I think that approach is wrong, unfair and out of touch. I believe we show our values by how we treat those who keep the economy moving—both the business owners and those in their workforce. Supporting workers to recover from illness, in particular, helps them to return to work sooner and stronger. Business owners know that—I hear that from them frequently—so I welcome the Government’s action to improve employment rights in the sector, including for the seasonal workforce. Tackling exploitative zero-hours contracts and one-sided flexibility is beneficial for employers. It reduces recruitment costs through increased staff retention, and levels the playing field on enforcement. These are good steps forward for workers and for businesses, and after years of stagnant productivity, our communities deserve them. Seasonal work will always have a vital place in Cornwall, but families also need year-round employment, so that they can plan for their future and avoid hardships through the winter months. That means creating skilled, secure opportunities through projects such as the new Kernow industrial growth fund, which was secured by Cornish Labour MPs and part of this Labour Budget. It will give communities across Cornwall a path to long-term prosperity, as we work with them and the seasonal workforce in other ways. Cornwall draws millions of visitors each year, and we must ensure that the system works just as well for the residents who welcome them, so I welcome this Government setting out how employment rights help boost productivity, and by doing so, ultimately support stronger economic growth and higher living standards. Seasonal workers deserve to be part of those improvements, and I will keep working with the Government to deliver just that.

• 9 Dec 2025 · Creative Education · Hansard source

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  I thank my hon. Friend for securing this important debate. Every child deserves a broad curriculum that values creative subjects alongside the core skills, but financial education from an early age is also vital. In communities in rural coastal settings such as mine, we face specific barriers to allowing children to access these important subjects. Does my hon. Friend agree that we need to examine the barriers and include these subjects as part of our offer to children across the whole of the UK?

• 9 Dec 2025 · Network Rail Timetable Changes: Rural Communities · Hansard source

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  I absolutely support my hon. Friend’s calls for those services. Cornwall is unique and its geography calls for tailored solutions. I thank the Government for their support of my calls for those tailored solutions. Will the Minister look closely at how replacement services in rural and coastal constituencies are designed, and look to co-ordinate timetables around the needs of communities such as South East Cornwall? The alternative travel options available need to reflect our lived experience of a lack of other alternatives. I would like to work further with the Department and with Network Rail to share that local evidence and support that improvement.

• 9 Dec 2025 · Network Rail Timetable Changes: Rural Communities · Hansard source

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  I thank the hon. Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (John Lamont) for securing this important debate. I begin by recognising the dedication of Network Rail staff. They work extremely hard to keep services moving safely. I know that local teams may sometimes dread seeing my name in their inboxes; I contact them so often because I frequently raise questions about transport in South East Cornwall. Their continued engagement with me matters, and I thank them for it. I have serious concerns about my local transport routes, but we are seeing improvements, with new speed safety cameras, pedestrian crossings, better road safety measures and barriers put in place since my election. That progress reflects years of effort by many residents and community organisations in South East Cornwall. Rural transport has always been a challenge for my area. As a rural and coastal area, that reality can often mean isolation for many, and difficulty when accessing essential services. In South East Cornwall, many residents look to Plymouth to attend healthcare appointments or go to school. For them, travel often relies on the Tamar crossings—either the bridge or the ferry. That creates an additional financial hurdle that is not faced in most other constituencies. Rail services help to bridge that gap. They are vital for residents who do not or cannot drive, in providing independence for them. Maintenance works are necessary to keep that network safe for passengers and staff, and those works will always need to take place, but my concern is the timing of some of them and the suitability of alternative services on offer as timetables change. As we speak, work is being carried out to cut back overgrown trees and shrubs, meaning that buses are replacing trains between, for example, Liskeard and Looe. In more urban settings that may be straightforward; in a rural and coastal setting it can be very difficult. Bus timetables have also been unpredictable for many of my communities. I have been working with residents in Saltash in particular to look at unreliable bus and train service connections, cancellations, and buses failing to turn up. Those issues have an impact in my area beyond the frustration of a few minutes’ delay. Local residents have reported missing appointments, or not being able to get to work and wages being docked because of that, to me.

• 27 Nov 2025 · Budget Resolutions · Hansard source

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  I thank the hon. Member for allowing me more time to make my points. Farming is at the heart of my community—

• 27 Nov 2025 · Budget Resolutions · Hansard source

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  I know, and I am very glad to be debating with the hon. Member on this point. Farming is at the heart of my community, and I am working hard with Ministers to ensure that the new changes are reflected. As I have said, there is much more work to do. I particularly welcome the clear recognition of Cornwall in this Budget. Alongside the Kernow industrial growth fund, the Government’s commitment to work with the Council of Europe to increase the UK’s formal recognition of the Cornish language under the European charter for regional or minority languages matters, because Kernewek remains at a lower level of protection compared with other Celtic languages. That is why I introduced my ten-minute rule Bill focused on Cornish language and heritage. Opposition parties talk about leaving the European convention on human rights. Cornwall fought hard for our national minority status and the frameworks that protect our language and heritage, so I do not want to see them thrown away. I want to see a wider use of Kernewek in signage and place names, which I know will boost our local economy as visitors flock to see it. This Budget moves us in the right direction. It does not complete the work, but it delivers a fair step towards repairing Britain and rebuilding the opportunities in places such as South East Cornwall. I will continue working, as I have done since being elected, to deliver real investment, strong public services and a local economy that works year-round.

• 27 Nov 2025 · Budget Resolutions · Hansard source

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  This Budget sets out fair decisions that benefit communities across the country that have felt the strain of the last decade, and that expect to see the change that they voted for delivered, and the cost of living brought under control. I am delighted that Cornwall’s potential has been recognised with the new £30 million Kernow industrial growth fund. This new fund demonstrates that Cornwall once again has a leading role to play in powering the UK economy. Mining is at the heart of our story in Cornwall. With the new support, we can begin the next chapter, in which critical minerals and other core industries will help us to unlock the next great industrial revolution, and greener, cheaper energy. The fund will support local businesses and workers. That investment is combined with the stability that will come through extended business rate retention, and sits alongside wider opportunities offered through the National Wealth Fund, the British Business Bank and Great British Energy. These choices support secure, year-round jobs, and this combination of investment, stability and real change for the majority of working people is reflected throughout the Budget South East Cornwall will feel a benefit through local growth and to family finances. Families gain real support. Wages have risen faster in the first year of this Government than they did over the past decade. The reduction in energy bills and the freeze to prescription charges, fuel duty and rail fares will be welcomed by my residents in South East Cornwall. The changes to universal credit will bring thousands back into work, strengthening labour markets in places like Liskeard, Torpoint and Callington. One of the most significant steps is the decision to scrap the two-child benefit limit. Shockingly, child poverty rose by 900,000 between 2010 and 2024. I say “shockingly”, but I am not sure if that truly shocks the Conservatives, who presided over that decline. I know what child poverty looks like. I know how it locks people out of opportunities through no fault of their own, and I know how hard schools, campaigners, charities and other support systems work to try to bridge the gap, but some gaps require systemic change. This Budget will lift 450,000 children out of poverty. That is what systemic change under this Labour Government looks like. In South East Cornwall, relative child poverty stood at 21.7% in 2023, meaning that almost a quarter of our local children entered school already facing hardship. Growing up in poverty makes people less likely to be in work, and more likely to earn 25% less, aged 30, so that is not good for kids or for the adults they become, and it is not good for our economy. This Budget reduces pressure and gives families a more secure start. For too long, local healthcare has been a challenge for residents in South East Cornwall, so I am pleased that Labour is backing our NHS with extra support. Investment in healthcare technology and the creation of 250 neighbourhood health centres will cut waiting lists and improve access. The NHS neighbourhood rebuild opens up more than 120 new centres by 2030, and there will be improvements at Truro health park. That is backed by real investment; these are not fantasy priorities. Residents in South East Cornwall rely on services in both Cornwall and Plymouth, and these upgrades will bring benefits right across my region. Young people get new opportunities as well. Investment in school libraries and new playgrounds will improve learning and wellbeing, and there will be an £820 million investment to support young people by guaranteeing them a place in college, an apprenticeship or personalised job support. The free apprenticeship training for under 25s in small businesses will help local employers across South East Cornwall. That is 1,854 small and medium-sized enterprises in my region that will be able to train and retain young people. This is a real chance to build a local, skilled workforce and to keep that talent at home in Cornwall. Cornwall needs the tools to strengthen its visitor economy in a way that benefits our local people in the long term, so an overnight visitor levy could be an important step. We rely heavily on tourism, yet residents often feel the pressure of the summer peaks without seeing the long-term benefits, so the power to raise local revenue and reinvest in our community projects could create a fairer balance and support a more resilient local economy. I also welcome the new announcement for farmers and their families. The ability for spouses to transfer any unused agricultural and business property relief allowances gives farming families more certainty as they plan for their future. South East Cornwall is a proud rural and coastal constituency, and I have been working with many local farmers to ensure that their views are heard in my discussions with Ministers. Fixing thresholds and closing loopholes strengthens confidence, but I know there is further work to do.

• 24 Nov 2025 · Critical Minerals Strategy · Hansard source

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  Cornwall has a proud history of mining, and this announcement means that we will also lead the way in meeting the UK’s future demand for critical minerals, so I warmly welcome the Minister’s statement. The Government’s plan will create opportunities for businesses in South East Cornwall such as Cornwall Resources—my constituents thank the Minister for that—including year-round skilled jobs, strong local supply chains and investment that will keep local talent in Cornwall. Will he outline how the Government will ensure that that investment is supported by a clear skills plan so that local people can access the new jobs linked to critical industry and how communities will be involved throughout the exciting months ahead?

• 11 Nov 2025 · Remembrance Day: Armed Forces · Hansard source

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  As we mark this season of remembrance, I am honoured, on behalf of the people of South East Cornwall, to pay tribute to the extraordinary men and women of our armed forces—those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and those who continue to serve our country with courage and pride. The tradition of service runs deep in South East Cornwall. Our ties to HMS Raleigh in Torpoint and His Majesty’s naval base in Devonport, just across the Tamar, mean that the Navy’s presence is woven into our community life. From cadet units in Liskeard, Saltash and Torpoint to the 12 Royal British Legion branches across our constituency, these groups ensure that the stories of sacrifice are never forgotten. On Sunday, I was proud to stand alongside residents, veterans and representatives from community groups in Lostwithiel at their remembrance service—a powerful reminder of the values of loyalty, discipline and commitment that underpin service. It was also a pleasure to join Liskeard’s festival of remembrance concert. Organised by the Royal British Legion, and supported by the Liskeard community and the local council, it was a real night to remember, with lots of audience participation bringing everyone together to raise much-needed funds. Remembrance must also mean responsibility, and I know that too many veterans still face delays in mental health support. They struggle to find housing, or encounter barriers when moving into civilian employment, so I warmly welcome the new veterans strategy and our pledge to renew the nation’s contract with our armed forces. For people in South East Cornwall, this means a fair deal on pay and conditions, guaranteed access to decent housing and healthcare, and a clear pathway from service to civilian life. I know what a difference programmes such as Valour and Fortitude will make to individuals and families across South East Cornwall. South East Cornwall knows that defence is not just about security; it can be an engine for growth, driving innovation and good jobs in communities like mine. Our economic prosperity, our communities and our pride are interwoven with this proud history and a bright future for our armed forces. In South East Cornwall, we wear our poppies with pride, and we thank our armed forces today and every day for their sacrifice—lest we forget.

• 29 Oct 2025 · Independent Lifeboats: Government Support · Hansard source

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  It is always a pleasure to serve under your chairship, Mrs Harris, and I congratulate the hon. Member for Hamble Valley (Paul Holmes) for securing this important debate. As someone who previously worked for the RNLI and now represents the beautiful rural and coastal constituency of South East Cornwall, I see every day how lifeboats sit at the heart of our community. In Cornwall, all our lifeboat cover is provided by the RNLI, and those crews are part of our shared identity, heritage and economy. However, I recognise the huge contribution made by independent lifeboats, including in the constituencies that have been mentioned. The south-west is one of the busiest regions to keep safe, with over 300 miles of Cornish coastline. Saltash in my constituency is the proud home of the RNLI’s south west flood rescue team, and I commend its work in having a regional response to such a crucial issue. The dedication is remarkable and the crews deserve real, practical support. During the summer, I had the privilege of visiting the RNLI station in Looe during one of its training evenings. I met several dedicated volunteer crew members, including operations manager Clive Palfrey and crew member Vicky Thomas. Many of the crew, as hon. Members might imagine in an area such as mine, are also busy members of the local inshore fishing fleet, and it is truly inspiring that they make the time to be volunteers as well. I was deeply impressed by the team’s professionalism. I saw how vital every piece of equipment is to its operations, particularly the two lifeboats, and I had the opportunity to try on some of the safety equipment. As we watched the lifeboat launch, I have to admit that it quickly became one of my favourite visits. The crew’s passion for keeping both the local community and visiting tourists—so important in Cornwall—safe on our waters is really inspiring and shared across all lifeboat crews, including independent lifeboats. The country knows about their dedication and the fundraising efforts involved, with communities coming together in support of crews. We owe a great deal to those volunteers, and I want to take the opportunity to thank them for their dedication and courage. While the RNLI does such a fantastic job keeping our Cornish communities safe, I appreciate that those operating elsewhere perform the same lifesaving work, often through local fundraising alone. I believe that the Government should continue to recognise both RNLI and independent services as essential partners in maritime safety, ensuring that every coastal community, including mine, has the support that it needs to stay safe at sea.

• 8 Sept 2025 · Defence Industrial Strategy · Hansard source

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  I welcome the Minister’s statement, and congratulate him on his new role. It is fantastic that Plymouth has been named as the site of one of the defence growth deals; this is very positive for South East Cornwall, given our close ties with the workers who cross the River Tamar daily using Tamar crossings, and the autonomous naval vessels training in our local Cornish waters. In fact, 23% of Babcock’s Devonport workforce live in South East Cornwall. Will the Minister outline how the positive impacts of this announcement will be felt throughout the region, and will he assure me that local housing and transport improvements will be considered critical to the successful delivery of this important deal?