Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Department for Education

Oral Answers to Questions

Chris Ruane Excerpts
Thursday 17th February 2011

(13 years, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Mark Prisk Portrait Mr Prisk
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We are working hard to ensure that the sector, which is a £10 billion industry by sales, is able to grow. That is why I am co-chairing the Marine Industries Leadership Council, and we held a reception in Parliament for all Members to understand its impact. We have a number of important studies on exports and on trade, making sure that investment is forthcoming, and we are determined to ensure an effective partnership between industry and Government so that there is growth.

Chris Ruane Portrait Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab)
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What is the Minister’s definition of the big society, and what role is his Department playing in it?

Ed Davey Portrait Mr Davey
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I believe that the whole point of the big society is to give people the permission and the support to engage in their local community and to show responsibility. I would have thought that the hon. Gentleman and other Opposition Members supported something that plays to the best traditions of our country.