Oral Answers to Questions

Philip Hollobone Excerpts

Thursday 31st October 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr Vaizey]

As I have said repeatedly, it is up to local authorities to publish their local broadband plans and I am delighted, particularly after the Secretary of State wrote to them, that many have now done so. People in Wiltshire and Yorkshire will know where the project is rolling out.

[Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con)]

It seems to me that BT is a big company that sometimes does not treat small communities very well. May I draw to the attention of the Minister the village of Rushden in my constituency, where residents are complaining that they are not getting the proper broadband access they deserve, despite their best efforts with BT?

[Mr Vaizey]

I hear what my hon. Friend says. BT is a big global company that we should be proud of, but from time to time issues will be raised by our constituents. I am happy to meet him to discuss the problem in detail.

--- Later in debate ---

[Norman Baker]

We all take this issue very seriously in government. I am concerned about the fall in referrals and I think part of that is due to engagement between the police and the CPS, because the fall-off in referrals has not been matched to the same degree by a fall-off in convictions. This is nevertheless an important matter. I am taking a personal interest in it and I am also talking about it to all the chief constables, who are coming into the Home Office this afternoon.

[Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con)]

What percentage of convicted rapists serve their time in prison in full before they are released?

[Norman Baker]

I cannot give a specific answer, but we obviously do not release anyone who is a danger to the public. That remains our position.