Written questions by Maguire.

Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to protect historic pauper burial sites from (a) private development and (b) inappropriate land use.

Burial grounds can be considered as open space, which is defined in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) as all open space of public value. There are strong safeguards set out in the NPPF to ensure the continued protection of existing open space. The designation of land as Local Green Space also allows communities to identify and protect green areas of particular importance to them.

Food and Rural Affairs, if she will have discussions with the horticultural sector to embed green space delivery in the Environmental Improvement Plan.

The Government recognises the importance of the environmental horticulture sector in promoting people’s health and wellbeing, and its potential contribution to our environmental goals. I have met with stakeholders including the Royal Horticultural Society and the Horticultural Trades Association, in recognition of the importance of this sector. Officials also meet regularly with the sector, including the Environmental Horticulture Group, a coalition of industry leaders from across the sector. These discussions help inform policy development and will continue to help us understand what support the sector needs to help it thrive and to best support delivery of the Environmental Improvement Plan.

Pursuant to the Answer of 2 December 2025 to Question 93101, what recent assessment his Department has made of its ability to mitigate and respond to civilian harm during future military operations, including in a large-scale conflict scenario.

A recent external review has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence's approach to mitigate and respond to civilian harm is effective in the current operating environment and fully compliant with International Humanitarian Law. Whilst impossible to predict the nuances of civilian harm mitigation and response in any future military operation, the Department continues to undertake work to ensure they can respond appropriately to a wide range of scenarios, including a large-scale conflict scenario.

Pursuant to the Answer of 25 November 2025 to Question 91776, and with reference to the UK’s commitments as a signatory of the Political Declaration on strengthening the protection of civilians from the humanitarian consequences arising from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, what steps his Department has taken to review and improve its ability to record and track civilian casualties, including children, using various methods of data collection.

The UK has robust targeting policies, practices and processes to ensure that all military operations are conducted in full compliance with our legal obligations and in a manner that reflects the UK’s clear commitment to the protection of civilians. UK forces observe all practicable precautions, conducting rigorous assessments before and after striking a target. The Ministry of Defence analyses all UK military activity, investigating any credible reports that UK actions may have caused civilian harm.The UK are proud signatories of the 2022 Political Declaration on use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas and are party to Protocol Five of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons.Our existing practices are some of the most robust and transparent globally and are kept under close review, including for the potential impact of new methods and technologies.

If he will extend Operation Soteria into the Crown Court.

Operation Soteria transformed how the police and the Crown Prosecution Service work together to investigate rape cases, promoting partnership working and ensuring a focus on the suspect’s behaviour and evidence, not the victim’s lifestyle, their choices or their character. This focus should continue in the court room. That is why we have announced new legislation to stop evidence which has the sole aim of undermining the victim – such as about their past sexual behaviour, previous allegations of assault, or compensation claim – being admitted to the courtroom unless it is absolutely necessary and clearly relevant.

What assessment he has made of the potential merits of making case conferences before trial mandatory for victims and survivors of sexual abuse.

Victims and witnesses in sexual offence cases can request in advance of trial to observe proceedings remotely once they have given evidence. Courts will make every effort to accommodate these requests, which may include re-listing the trial in a courtroom with suitable technology. However, remote observation cannot be guaranteed in every case, as it depends on the availability of appropriate facilities and resources.The listing of Ground Rules Hearings (GRHs) is a matter for the judiciary. GRHs are typically held in cases involving vulnerable witnesses, such as children or individuals with communication difficulties, to ensure they are questioned in a fair and appropriate way during trial. However, judges also have discretion to direct a GRH for intimidated witnesses, including complainants in sexual offence cases, where they consider it appropriate in the circumstances of the case.

What assessment he has made of the potential merits of implementing a whole-system criminal justice strategy for rape and sexual abuse.

The Ministry of Justice is committed to a high standard, whole system approach to cases of rape and sexual abuse. This is supported by the expertise of our Independent Advisor on the Criminal Justice Response to Sexual Violence.We will soon be publishing our cross-government Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategy. This will set out strategic direction and concrete actions to prevent violence and abuse, pursue perpetrators, and support victims, including across the criminal justice system. This strategy will work in tandem with the recently published Crown Prosecution Service VAWG strategy, which sets out how they will work with partners to ensure a consistent, best practice response to VAWG.

If he will take steps to enable victims and survivors of sexual abuse to observe their trial without sitting in the public gallery.

Victims and witnesses in sexual offence cases can request in advance of trial to observe proceedings remotely once they have given evidence. Courts will make every effort to accommodate these requests, which may include re-listing the trial in a courtroom with suitable technology. However, remote observation cannot be guaranteed in every case, as it depends on the availability of appropriate facilities and resources.The listing of Ground Rules Hearings (GRHs) is a matter for the judiciary. GRHs are typically held in cases involving vulnerable witnesses, such as children or individuals with communication difficulties, to ensure they are questioned in a fair and appropriate way during trial. However, judges also have discretion to direct a GRH for intimidated witnesses, including complainants in sexual offence cases, where they consider it appropriate in the circumstances of the case.

If he will make an assessment of the potential merits of establishing a programme to subsidise domestic electric battery manufacturing.

The battery sector currently employs 10,500 people across the UK and is one of the frontier industries highlighted in our Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan.The Government recently made the UK's largest single commitment to battery R&D and commercialisation of £452 million to 2030 in the new Battery Innovation Programme (BIP).BIP targets technical skills gaps to develop engineers and scientists of the future, connects academic researchers with UK industry, and funds investor partnerships that improve access to investment for innovative battery companies ready to commercialise and scale in the UK.This sits alongside DRIVE35, our long-term £2.5 billion commitment to zero emission vehicle manufacturing which provides capital support and additional R&D funding for strategic vehicle technologies, like batteries, accelerating their commercial scale-up.

If he will meet with representatives from Beyond the Wire and members of the bereaved Armed Forces community to discuss the adequacy of support for the armed forces bereaved.

Defence officials will be meeting with the CEO of Beyond the Wire on 17 December. Additionally, they have been invited to join the Defence Bereaved Families Group (DBFG), which I believe to be the best mechanism to engage with all the stakeholders that have an interest in supporting the bereaved. There are no current plans for the Secretary of State to meet with the group. Defence recognises the extraordinary commitment and sacrifices that Service families make to our country and, in particular, of those who are bereaved. We take a holistic multi-agency approach to supporting the bereaved community with UK wide support in place through the single Services, Veterans Services and the DBFG. The DBFG itself was formed to ensure two-way communication on matters of bereavement between Defence and the bereaved cohort, facilitating the opportunity to shape policy to ensure those who suffer such loss are treated fairly and with due consideration. It's membership includes chairs of the Widows’ Associations, representatives from Government, bereaved support services, and military charities.

How many and what proportion of people admitted to hospital in (a) England and (b) Surrey were aged between (i) 60 and 70, (ii) 70 and 80, (iii) 80 and 90 and (iv) 90 and 100 in 2024.

I refer the Hon. Member to the answer provided on 30 October 2025 to Question 85046.

What steps he is taking to help prevent armed forces personnel from developing mental and behavioural disorders.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) encourages personnel to consider their mental fitness as equally as important as their physical fitness promoting good mental resilience and mitigating the negative impacts of potential traumatic experiences. The Department encourages early identification and intervention for those experiencing mental health challenges and actively promotes a culture where Personnel feel comfortable seeking help without stigma. Personnel have access to a vast range of resources to support their mental health with both in-person and online options, briefings before, during, and post-deployment, a dedicated 24 hour phoneline for both personnel and their families and access to HeadFIT; an externally accessible website specifically designed for the Defence community. All Personnel, attend a mandated annual mental fitness brief which provides information on mental health, wellbeing, stress management, and provides signposting to appropriate help. Personnel who are unable to be deployed due to mental health disorders are managed clinically by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC). DPHC provides a responsive, flexible, accessible, and comprehensive treatment service. DPHC has introduced standardised training for primary care clinicians incorporating emerging digital interventions to ensure Personnel can access initial mental healthcare at any Defence medical centre, strengthening the initial management of mental health disorders within primary care settings. Defence Mental Health Networks (DMHNs) are located across the UK and are improving access to specialist mental health services for personnel. These specialist community mental health services provide enhanced access to expert assessment and treatment for personnel experiencing mental health disorders. By introducing new single points of access, enabling the sharing of specialist skills across network locations and consolidating clinical and governance processes DMHNs are reducing wait times to enhanced assessments and core treatment therapies. The through life support now provided to Service personnel will have a positive impact on the veterans of the future, ensuring that Armed Forces Personnel have the psychological resilience they need to recognise mental ill-health in themselves, those around them and know how to manage it. Defence is committed to ensuring that Service Personnel receive the care and treatment required to ensure they are fit to fight and can fight back to fitness.

What steps he is taking to support the armed forces bereaved community.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) recognises the extraordinary commitment and sacrifices that Service families make to our country and, in particular, of those who are bereaved. We take a holistic multi-agency approach to supporting the bereaved community with UK wide support in place through the single Services, the Defence Bereaved Families Group (DBFG) and Veterans Services. Defence provides clear signposting to the support and resources available to the Armed Forces bereaved community, offering access to timely and appropriate support. We recognise that the emotional and practical impact of bereavement is often complex and shared by many, therefore our guidance has been compiled as a resource for the wider family, friends and colleagues, and is provided to the bereaved after any in-Service death. Immediately following the death of a Service person, a trained Visiting Officer is appointed to act as the Armed Forces’ focal point in offering practical assistance and advice to the family. Specialist statutory support is also provided by Veterans Services through the provision of a Case Manager, who provides financial information and practical support. A Chaplain is available to offer pastoral care, spiritual guidance, and practical advice if requested. The DBFG was formed to ensure two-way communication on matters of bereavement between the MOD and the bereaved cohort. It is co-chaired by a military representative from within Defence and a ‘lived experience’ representative of one of the single Service Widows Associations. The DBFG facilitates the opportunity to shape policy to ensure those who suffer such loss are treated fairly and with due consideration. Furthermore, I can confirm that the bereaved are included in the Armed Forces Covenant, our promise that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, including the bereaved should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy, and society they serve.

What steps he is taking to support armed forces personnel who are unable to be deployed due to mental and behavioural disorders.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) encourages personnel to consider their mental fitness as equally as important as their physical fitness promoting good mental resilience and mitigating the negative impacts of potential traumatic experiences. The Department encourages early identification and intervention for those experiencing mental health challenges and actively promotes a culture where Personnel feel comfortable seeking help without stigma. Personnel have access to a vast range of resources to support their mental health with both in-person and online options, briefings before, during, and post-deployment, a dedicated 24 hour phoneline for both personnel and their families and access to HeadFIT; an externally accessible website specifically designed for the Defence community. All Personnel, attend a mandated annual mental fitness brief which provides information on mental health, wellbeing, stress management, and provides signposting to appropriate help. Personnel who are unable to be deployed due to mental health disorders are managed clinically by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC). DPHC provides a responsive, flexible, accessible, and comprehensive treatment service. DPHC has introduced standardised training for primary care clinicians incorporating emerging digital interventions to ensure Personnel can access initial mental healthcare at any Defence medical centre, strengthening the initial management of mental health disorders within primary care settings. Defence Mental Health Networks (DMHNs) are located across the UK and are improving access to specialist mental health services for personnel. These specialist community mental health services provide enhanced access to expert assessment and treatment for personnel experiencing mental health disorders. By introducing new single points of access, enabling the sharing of specialist skills across network locations and consolidating clinical and governance processes DMHNs are reducing wait times to enhanced assessments and core treatment therapies. The through life support now provided to Service personnel will have a positive impact on the veterans of the future, ensuring that Armed Forces Personnel have the psychological resilience they need to recognise mental ill-health in themselves, those around them and know how to manage it. Defence is committed to ensuring that Service Personnel receive the care and treatment required to ensure they are fit to fight and can fight back to fitness.

What assessment his Department has made of the dangers to NHS staff from exposure to formaldehyde.

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (2002) (COSHH) (as amended) is a robust and well-established regulatory framework in place to protect workers from the health risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace, including formaldehyde. Under COSHH, it is the responsibility of each NHS employer to assess the risk from their work activities involving formaldehyde and to ensure that the exposure of their employees to this hazardous substance is either prevented, or where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps her Department plans to take to help support women and girls affected by female genital mutilation after the conclusion of The Girl Generation-Africa-Led Movement to End FGM initiative in October 2026.

The UK is committed to championing the rights of women and girls worldwide, including working with local partners to tackle the scourge of female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage and other coercive practices. As well as investing up to £35.5 million in the Africa-Led Movement to End FGM programme, which operates in Kenya, Senegal, Somalia and Ethiopia, we also contribute towards the UNICEF/UN Population Fund Joint Programme for the Elimination of FGM, which operates in eighteen countries. Allocations of Official Development Assistance funding for future years will be set out in the coming months, including our programmes to protect the rights of women and girls.

What steps he is taking to prevent armed forces personnel from developing musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.

There are a range of programmes available, with specifically tailored support provided to personnel at increased risk of MSKI. Commanding Officers are also provided with specific guidance and education to reduce the occurrence of MSKI. Innovative solutions are being piloted through the Human Performance Optimisation programme, which has assessed Vitamin D supplementation and revised ration packs to increase protein content. Additionally, personnel may have their medical employment standard amended to protect them from activities that might exacerbate their condition. Personnel who are unable to be deployed due to musculoskeletal disorders and injuries are managed clinically by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC). DPHC provides rehabilitation services across the UK delivered through Primary Care Rehabilitation Facilities and Regional Rehabilitation Units, with Personnel being able to access physiotherapy and exercise rehabilitation quickly and throughout their service. For more complex cases, Personnel receive dedicated support at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre; a world leader in specialist rehabilitation care. Where Personnel require surgical intervention, DPHC commissions private healthcare treatment for Service personnel which falls outside NHS policy and provision. Bespoke private-sector healthcare pathways are also offered for some Service personnel in priority trade groups who are on NHS waiting lists for longer than 18 weeks. Additionally, the Regional Rehabilitation Unit Fast Track Scheme, in contract with a private-sector healthcare provider, delivers rapid access to high quality musculoskeletal diagnostic imaging, high quality orthopaedic specialist surgical intervention and access to an accelerated spinal care pathway. Defence is committed to ensuring that Service Personnel receive the care and treatment required to ensure they can get back to fitness.

What assessment his Department has made of the impact of the ending of funding for the Energy Company Obligation scheme in March 2026 on energy bills.

To bring energy bills down for all, the decision has been made not to continue the Energy Company Obligation and associated Great British Insulation Scheme when they end next year. This will save on average £60 on energy bills per household. Combined with other essential support delivered through the Budget, this will reduce energy costs by £150 from next April.

What steps he is taking to support armed forces personnel who are unable to be deployed due to musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.

There are a range of programmes available, with specifically tailored support provided to personnel at increased risk of MSKI. Commanding Officers are also provided with specific guidance and education to reduce the occurrence of MSKI. Innovative solutions are being piloted through the Human Performance Optimisation programme, which has assessed Vitamin D supplementation and revised ration packs to increase protein content. Additionally, personnel may have their medical employment standard amended to protect them from activities that might exacerbate their condition. Personnel who are unable to be deployed due to musculoskeletal disorders and injuries are managed clinically by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC). DPHC provides rehabilitation services across the UK delivered through Primary Care Rehabilitation Facilities and Regional Rehabilitation Units, with Personnel being able to access physiotherapy and exercise rehabilitation quickly and throughout their service. For more complex cases, Personnel receive dedicated support at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre; a world leader in specialist rehabilitation care. Where Personnel require surgical intervention, DPHC commissions private healthcare treatment for Service personnel which falls outside NHS policy and provision. Bespoke private-sector healthcare pathways are also offered for some Service personnel in priority trade groups who are on NHS waiting lists for longer than 18 weeks. Additionally, the Regional Rehabilitation Unit Fast Track Scheme, in contract with a private-sector healthcare provider, delivers rapid access to high quality musculoskeletal diagnostic imaging, high quality orthopaedic specialist surgical intervention and access to an accelerated spinal care pathway. Defence is committed to ensuring that Service Personnel receive the care and treatment required to ensure they can get back to fitness.

What plans he has to support SMEs that rely on the Energy Company Obligation scheme for predictable work after March 2026.

We have committed £1.5 billion in new grant funding to help low-income households with upgrades, taking total investment under the Warm Homes Plan to almost £15 billion. UK clean energy and related supply chain jobs are projected to rise from around 440,000 in 2023 to around 860,000 by 2030, offering transition opportunities for businesses currently installing measures under ECO4. Further details will be provided in the Warm Homes Plan.