Business of the House

Nick Smith Excerpts

Thursday 12th March 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I sincerely hope that the impact is not as the hon. Gentleman has led us to believe. If he wants confirmation about that, I will arrange for a Minister to explain the situation to him. It is absolutely right that mayors are given the choice of whether they introduce a tourist tax. It will be controversial in many ways—we understand that—but let us not forget that there are benefits in what that income can be used for. I join with him in his worry that, if it impacts negatively on scouts, that should be borne in mind because they do a fantastic job.

[Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney) (Lab)]

Bank closures have affected many communities. In Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, we have a banking hub in Abertillery and will shortly have one in Ebbw Vale, so that residents have access to bank services on their high street. These are very popular, and it is great that the Government are committed to delivering 350 banking hubs. May we have a statement to find out how that is going, and to hear about lessons learned and whether access to hubs could be widened in the future?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Banking is changing, with many customers benefiting from the convenience of managing their finances remotely, but the Government understand the importance for many people of face-to-face banking and are committed to supporting sufficient access for customers. That is why the financial services industry, with Government support, is committed to rolling out 350 banking hubs. That 350 is not an upper limit on how many there will be. There will be 350 by the end of this Parliament, but there is no reason why the process cannot continue. The Government are working closely with the industry on this commitment, including through regular ministerial engagement. As we assess the roll-out of banking hubs, I am sure Ministers will want to bear in mind the need to update the House when appropriate.