Business of the House

Chi Onwurah Excerpts

Thursday 11th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I share the right hon. Gentleman’s concern and frustration about the attitudes towards nuclear, because Scotland is well placed to benefit from new nuclear projects. There are millions of pounds-worth of investment, high-quality jobs and apprenticeships, and I certainly welcome what sounds like a fantastic development in his constituency. Should he wish to raise the matter through a Westminster Hall debate, he can test Ministers on what further can be done.

[Dame Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West) (Lab)]

When I am out across the constituency, whether it is in Elswick, Denton, Westerhope, Wingrove, Arthur’s Hill or Monument, too often the issue that people raise with me is litter. Some 14 years of austerity reduced Newcastle city council’s cleansing resources, but hourly cleansing would not be enough in some areas of the city. We need greater powers and greater enforcement. Can we have a debate in Government time about devolving additional powers to local authorities, such as the power to require fast food outlets to have larger bins or to require landlords to keep their properties clean?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend raises some really important matters, which I know are frustrating to her constituents. Local authorities have a really important role to play. The Government are very keen that both powers and resources are devolved not just to regions, but to individual communities, where they will have the most effect. I am sure that if she seeks a Westminster Hall debate or an Adjournment debate, she can raise these matters still further.