Business of the House

Debate between Alan Campbell and David Williams

Thursday 11th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

What a fantastic festive event! The contribution of volunteers to events like these is invaluable. It has a real impact in bringing communities together, and is in the best of our traditions. I thank everyone volunteering at this festive period for their contribution. I will certainly look at my diary to see whether I am available next year, but I am in danger of making Scrooge look cheerful.

[David Williams (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Lab)]

On Tuesday, the leader of Staffordshire county council, Reform councillor Ian Cooper, finally resigned after an investigation into his social media accounts found he was a top fan of a Facebook page that openly promotes white supremacy. Those views are abhorrent and completely incompatible with public life. They are the opposite of the kind, tolerant people of the county. Will the Leader of the House please make time for a debate on standards in public life to send a clear message that racism has no place in our politics nor in our communities?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I completely agree that racism has no place in our communities or in public life. As elected officials, it is our responsibility to uphold the Nolan principles. There appear to be other issues coming to light with Reform councillors in Staffordshire council. I encourage them to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves.

Business of the House

Debate between Alan Campbell and David Williams

Thursday 11th September 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

With record-breaking crowds at the rugby world cup and tens of thousands of fans packing out the Mall for the Lionesses’ victory parade after their amazing success in the Euros, we are showing ourselves to be true world leaders in women’s sport. I join my hon. Friend in paying tribute to the organisers, but also in wishing success for the home nations. As he knows, there is a game this weekend between England and Scotland —both home nations—so it is a case of which side to pick.

[David Williams (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Lab)]

This week, 6 Towns Radio, a community radio station broadcasting to the six towns of Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme celebrates its 15th birthday. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating Dan Townley, Terry Bossons and all the volunteers at 6 Towns Radio as it celebrates its milestone? Does he agree that community radio has played, and will continue to play, an important role in connecting our communities?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I certainly join my hon. Friend in congratulating 6 Towns Radio on its 15th anniversary and community radio right across our country. The Government recognise the importance of community radio and continue to support the sector as part of a diverse media landscape. He may wish to go further than just seeking congratulations for what is happening in his area and consider a Backbench Business debate on the matter, because I am sure that many colleagues would wish to speak in such a debate about their own community radio stations.