Rachael Maskell
Labour (Co-op) - York Central
19,154 (44.2%) majority - 2024 General ElectionFirst elected: 7th May 2015
5 APPG Officer Positions (as of 1 Dec 2025)
Adoption and Permanence, Ageing and Older People, Archaeology, Drugs, Alcohol and Justice, Dying Well48 APPG Memberships
Beer, Respiratory Health, Afghan Women and Girls, Heritage Rail, Adult Social Care, Animal Welfare, Autism, Babies (Pregnancy to Age 2), Beyond Pills, Care-Experienced Children and Young People, Carers, Child of the North, Christians in Parliament, City Regions Transport, Classics, Climate Change, Defibrillators, Dentistry and Oral Health, Early Education and Childcare, Environment, Fairtrade, Faith and Society, Gaps in Covid-19 Financial Support, Gypsies, Travellers and Roma, Healthy Homes and Buildings, Housing and Care for Older People, Hydrogen, Music Education, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), Obesity, Performing Arts Education and Training, Pharmacy, Prostate Cancer, Safeguarding in Faith Communities, Schools, Learning and Assessment, Smoking and Health, Stem Cell Transplantation and Advanced Cellular Therapies, Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention, United Nations Global Goals, University, Women in Parliament, British Sign Language, Youth Affairs, Vulnerable Groups to Pandemics, Fair Elections, Sepsis, Visual Arts and Artists, Baby Loss33 Former APPG Officer Positions
Adult Social Care, Adverse Childhood Experiences, Care-Experienced Children and Young People, Child of the North, Childhood Trauma, Climate Change, Closing the Guantanamo Bay Detention Facility, Cycling, Cycling and Walking, Deliberative Democracy, Drug Policy Reform, Eggs, Pigs and Poultry, Flood Prevention, Hazaras, Homelessness, Human-Relevant Science, Intensive Care, Learning Disability, Medomsley Detention Centre, Mental Health, Parkinson's, Prepayment Meters, Prevention of Childhood Trauma, Pro-Life, Respiratory Health, Showing Racism the Red Card, Stroke, Sudan and South Sudan, Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention, Tackling Loneliness and Connected Communities, Vulnerable Groups to Pandemics, Women and Work, Yorkshire and Northern LincolnshireDivision Voting information
Rachael Maskell voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 11 Labour Aye votes vs 232 Labour No votes
Tally: Ayes - 85 Noes - 238
Rachael Maskell voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 129 Labour Aye votes vs 200 Labour No votes
Tally: Ayes - 243 Noes - 279
Rachael Maskell voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 127 Labour No votes vs 206 Labour Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 288 Noes - 239
Rachael Maskell voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 15 Labour Aye votes vs 298 Labour No votes
Tally: Ayes - 180 Noes - 307
Rachael Maskell voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 14 Labour Aye votes vs 293 Labour No votes
Tally: Ayes - 117 Noes - 379
Rachael Maskell voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 25 Labour No votes vs 291 Labour Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 379 Noes - 137
Rachael Maskell voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 49 Labour No votes vs 333 Labour Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 335 Noes - 260
Rachael Maskell voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 42 Labour Aye votes vs 325 Labour No votes
Tally: Ayes - 149 Noes - 328
Rachael Maskell voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 47 Labour No votes vs 333 Labour Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 336 Noes - 242
Rachael Maskell voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 47 Labour Aye votes vs 331 Labour No votes
Tally: Ayes - 149 Noes - 334
Rachael Maskell voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 35 Labour Aye votes vs 333 Labour No votes
Tally: Ayes - 130 Noes - 443
Rachael Maskell voted No - against a party majority and against the House
One of 37 Labour No votes vs 330 Labour Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 335 Noes - 135
Debates during the 2024 Parliament
Speeches made during Parliamentary debates are recorded in Hansard. For ease of browsing we have grouped debates into individual, departmental and legislative categories.
Sparring Partners
(27 debate interactions)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
(21 debate interactions)
Department Debates
(43 debate contributions)
(40 debate contributions)
(39 debate contributions)
(37 debate contributions)
Legislation Debates
(2,766 words contributed)
(2,051 words contributed)
(798 words contributed)
(111 words contributed)
York Central Petitions
e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.
If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.
If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).
of 10,921 signatures (2.05%)
of 113,596 signatures (0.27%)
of 75,881 signatures (0.21%)
of 192,196 signatures (0.19%)
of 179,416 signatures (0.16%)
of 681,550 signatures (0.12%)
of 192,196 signatures (0.19%)
of 260,819 signatures (0.13%)
of 113,596 signatures (0.27%)
of 179,416 signatures (0.16%)
Petition Closed
Extend free bus travel for people over 60 in England
Gov Responded - 12 Feb 2025 Debated on - 5 Jan 2026 View Rachael Maskell's petition debate contributionsclosed 6 months, 2 weeks ago
We call on the Government to extend free bus travel to all people over 60 years old in England outside London. We believe the current situation is unjust and we want equality for everyone over 60.
Petition Closed
Urgently fulfil humanitarian obligations to Gaza
Gov Responded - 8 Aug 2025 Debated on - 24 Nov 2025 View Rachael Maskell's petition debate contributionsclosed 5 months, 2 weeks ago
Act to ensure deliverer of fuel, food, aid, life saving services etc. We think this shouldn't be dependant/on condition of Israeli facilitation as the Knesset voted against UNWRA access to Gaza. We think if military delivery of aid, airdrops, peacekeepers etc, are needed, then all be considered.
Petition Closed
Raise statutory maternity/paternity pay to match the National Living Wage
Gov Responded - 25 Apr 2025 Debated on - 27 Oct 2025 View Rachael Maskell's petition debate contributionsclosed 3 months, 3 weeks ago
Statutory maternity and paternity pay is £4.99 per hour for a full-time worker on 37.5 hours per week - approximately 59% less than the 2024 National Living Wage of £12.21 per hour for workers aged 21+, which has been set out to ensure a basic standard of living.
Petition Closed
End the Badger cull and adopt other approaches to bovine TB control
Gov Responded - 10 Jan 2025 Debated on - 13 Oct 2025 View Rachael Maskell's petition debate contributionsclosed 7 months, 2 weeks ago
The Government’s TB Eradication Strategy allows the continued killing of badgers, a protected species, until the end of this Parliament, despite the Labour manifesto calling the cull “ineffective.”
We believe the badger cull is unjustified and must end.
Petition Closed
Retain legal right to assessment and support in education for children with SEND
Gov Responded - 5 Aug 2025 Debated on - 15 Sep 2025 View Rachael Maskell's petition debate contributionsclosed 3 months ago
Support in education is a vital legal right of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). We ask the government to commit to maintaining the existing law, so that vulnerable children with SEND can access education and achieve their potential.
Petition Closed
Apply for the UK to join the European Union as a full member as soon as possible
Gov Responded - 19 Nov 2024 Debated on - 24 Mar 2025 View Rachael Maskell's petition debate contributionsclosed 8 months, 2 weeks ago
I believe joining the EU would boost the economy, increase global influence, improve collaboration and provide stability & freedom. I believe that Brexit hasn't brought any tangible benefit and there is no future prospect of any, that the UK has changed its mind and that this should be recognised.
Latest EDMs signed by Rachael Maskell
Food insecurity amongst workers in food processing, manufacturing and retail sectors
Tabled by: Ian Byrne (Labour - Liverpool West Derby)That this House recognises important recent research from the Bakers Food and Allied Workers Union (BFAWU) which demonstrates the cost of living pressures facing their members working across the food sector; is alarmed that BFAWU's survey of its members shows that, despite being in work, six out of ten of …
(Most recent: 13 Jan 2026)
Signatures by party:
Labour: 6
Democratic Unionist Party: 1
Independent: 1
Less Survivable Cancers Week
Tabled by: Helen Maguire (Liberal Democrat - Epsom and Ewell)That this House recognises Less Survivable Cancers Week; notes the six less survivable cancers are cancers of the brain, liver, lungs, pancreas, oesophagus and stomach; further recognises that these cancers account for 67,000 deaths every year and represent around 42% of all cancer deaths in the UK; further notes late …
(Most recent: 13 Jan 2026)
Signatures by party:
Liberal Democrat: 24
Labour: 3
Democratic Unionist Party: 1
Scottish National Party: 1
Commons initiatives
These initiatives were driven by Rachael Maskell, and are more likely to reflect personal policy preferences.
MPs who are act as Ministers or Shadow Ministers are generally restricted from performing Commons initiatives other than Urgent Questions.
Rachael Maskell has not been granted any Urgent Questions
Rachael Maskell has not been granted any Adjournment Debates
8 Bills introduced by Rachael Maskell
A Bill to give local authorities the power to require licences for the conversion of domestic properties into short-term and holiday-let accommodation; to give local authorities the power to issue fines and to remove such licences when safety, noise and nuisance conditions have not been met; to make provision about banning the licensing of such properties in defined geographical areas; to give local authorities the power to vary the rates of local taxes in relation to such properties; to give local authorities the power to restrict the number of days per year for which such properties can be let; and for connected purposes.
A Bill to provide for a statutory definition of bullying at work; to make provision relating to bullying at work, including to enable claims relating to workplace bullying to be considered by an employment tribunal; to provide for a Respect at Work Code to set minimum standards for positive and respectful work environments; to give powers to the Equalities and Human Rights Commission to investigate workplaces and organisations where there is evidence of a culture of, or multiple incidents of, bullying and to take enforcement action; and for connected purposes.
Monday 21st October 2024
A Bill to make provision for the licensing of short-term let accommodation; to make provision about the marketing of short-term let accommodation; to make provision about planning permission in respect of short-term let accommodation; to require the Secretary of State to publish guidance about the management of short-term let accommodation; to make provision about small business rates relief for short-term let accommodation; and for connected purposes.
Wednesday 16th October 2024
A Bill to give the Monarch powers to remove titles; to provide that such removals can be done by the Monarch on their own initiative, following a recommendation of a joint committee of Parliament, or at the request of the person who holds the title; and for connected purposes.
Wednesday 22nd October 2025
Friday 27th March 2026
A Bill to provide for a statutory definition of bullying at work; to make provision relating to bullying at work, including to enable claims relating to workplace bullying to be considered by an employment tribunal; to provide for a Respect at Work Code to set minimum standards for positive and respectful work environments; to give powers to the Equalities and Human Rights Commission to investigate workplaces and organisations where there is evidence of a culture of, or multiple incidents of, bullying and to take enforcement action; and for connected purposes.
Monday 11th December 2023
A Bill to give the Monarch powers to remove titles; to provide that such removals can be done by the Monarch on their own initiative or following a recommendation of a joint committee of Parliament; and for connected purposes.
Monday 20th June 2022
A Bill to prevent certain non-statutory payments being made by the Government to former Prime Ministers; to abolish the payment of grants to persons ceasing to hold ministerial offices; and for connected purposes.
Wednesday 26th October 2022
A Bill to provide for a statutory definition of bullying at work; to make provision relating to bullying at work, including to enable claims relating to workplace bullying to be considered by an employment tribunal; to provide for a Respect at Work Code to set minimum standards for positive and respectful work environments; to give powers to the Equalities and Human Rights Commission to investigate workplaces and organisations where there is evidence of a culture of, or multiple incidents of, bullying and to take enforcement action; and for connected purposes.
11 Bills co-sponsored by Rachael Maskell
Youth Services Bill 2024-26
Sponsor - Natasha Irons (Lab)
Terminal Illness (Relief of Pain) Bill 2024-26
Sponsor - Edward Leigh (Con)
Treatment of Terminal Illness Bill 2024-26
Sponsor - Siobhain McDonagh (Lab)
Fireworks (Noise Limits) Bill 2023-24
Sponsor - Judith Cummins (Lab)
Employment Equality (Insurance etc) Bill 2022-23
Sponsor - Natalie Elphicke (Lab)
Co-operatives (Permanent Shares) Bill 2022-23
Sponsor - Gareth Thomas (LAB)
Planning and Local Representation Bill 2021-22
Sponsor - Rachel Hopkins (Lab)
Short and Holiday-Let Accommodation (Registration) Bill 2021-22
Sponsor - Karen Buck (Lab)
Co-operatives (Employee Company Ownership) Bill 2021-22
Sponsor - Christina Rees (LAB)
Reservoirs (Flood Risk) Bill 2017-19
Sponsor - Holly Lynch (Lab)
Automatic Electoral Registration (No. 2) Bill 2017-19
Sponsor - Jo Stevens (Lab)
Latest 50 Written Questions
(View all written questions)1 Other Department Questions
The Government is committed to commencing the socio-economic duty in the Equality Act 2010. The duty will require specified public bodies, when making strategic decisions, to consider actively how their decisions might help to reduce the inequalities associated with socio-economic disadvantage.
We will work in partnership with public authorities, civil society and others in order to ensure that the implementation of the duty is as effective as possible. As part of this, we have included questions in relation to the socio-economic duty in a call for evidence on equality law, which was launched on 7 April and will be open until 30 June. This will enable public authorities and others to input into plans in relation to the socio-economic duty at an early stage.
Information about Ministerial meetings, with data companies and others, is routinely published on GOV.UK in a quarterly transparency return. The latest Cabinet Office return can be found here.
Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)
The digital ID scheme will be underpinned with the principle that no one should be left behind.
We recognise that not everyone has the same level of digital access or confidence, and that’s why the scheme will be accompanied by a major government digital inclusion drive.
Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)
The National Cyber Security Centre is advising the Government on how the new credential is built to the highest standard of security. This would operate a three lines of defence process - this helps ensure data is protected, fraud is deterred and detected, and threats are monitored and responded to.
Ensuring that security arrangements for the proposed digital ID scheme keeps pace with the changing threat landscape will be central to its development.
Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)
On 26 September 2025, the Prime Minister announced plans for free digital ID to be available to all UK citizens and legal residents. This is not an ID card.
The scope of the digital ID scheme is still in development and we are inviting the public to have their say in the upcoming consultation as we develop an inclusive, secure, and useful system.
Employers already conduct right to work checks using proof of ID. The new credential will enable these to be fully digitised by the end of this Parliament.
Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)
The digital ID scheme will be underpinned by the principle that no one should be left behind. Making this system work for everyone will be a top priority, including those who do not have smartphones, are elderly, or are less digitally confident, so everyone will benefit from simpler, safer access to services.
To support those who are digitally excluded, including those from work, the Government will deliver an ambitious digital inclusion programme across the country to ensure they are able to access the new digital ID scheme, and use public services with ease.
Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)
I would be happy to meet with the hon. Member for York Central to discuss the proposed Hub in York Central.
The Hub in York Central is expected to open late 2027/early 2028 although this remains subject to final commercial agreements and progress of the wider site infrastructure and Public Realm. The GPA is working in partnership with Homes England, Network Rail and the development partners McLaren and Arlington Real Estate to ensure the masterplan development programme works for all parties.
In support of the recent successful planning application there has been a significant amount of public consultation. This consultation informed the final design to meet local stakeholder feedback. Including:
Public Consultation 01 (17/11/2022-19/11/2022)
Public Consultation 03 (02/03/2023-04/03/2023)
Public Webinar 01 (22/11/2022)
Public Webinar 02 (08/03/2023)
York Central Design Review Panel (12/12/2022)
For the duration of the design development and leading up to the planning application submission there has been extensive discussions with the planning officers at the City of York Council (CYC) along with the relevant design and technical advisors. This proactive engagement through the pre-application process has included the following meetings:
PreApplication Meeting 01 (08/07/2022) - Massing Discussion
PreApplication Meeting 02 (13/09/2022) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 03 (21/09/2022) - Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 04 (21/10/2022 - Highways and Drainage
PreApplication Meeting 05 (22/11/2022)- Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 06 (07/12/2022) - Heritage Impact
PreApplication Meeting 07 (27/02/2023) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 07 (28/06/2023) - Design and Planning Focus
The above meetings sought to discuss the emerging massing, scale and materiality of the Proposed Development. The team held open conversations regarding design development and heritage impact, and planning officers have been supportive of the proposal. The Proposed Development has been sympathetically designed in line with the York Central Outline Planning Application’s approved parameters and design guidance. The comments and observations of the CYC officers have informed the development of the designs throughout the pre-application process.
The Hub has been designed with York at the forefront of the scheme and has been a
collaborative effort between all partners, including CYC and the York Design Review Panel. In particular, the detailed articulation of the façade design celebrates the railway history of the site and the character of its setting, whilst also considering the views from the station platforms and the city walls. The design has also been endorsed by Heritage England and the York Design Trust.
Key highlights include:
Contextual design: Near some of the key historic assets within the City of York such as the City Walls (grade I), the adjacent York Railway Station (grade II*) and the National Rail Museum (grade II). Sustainability and Environmental Considerations: a genuine commitment to achieve BREEAM Outstanding, NABERS UK 5* and EPC A.
Community Involvement: 2 sessions of public engagement and 2 webinars held.
Building Design and Functionality: Innovative, functional well- considered design intended to feel timeless, and dynamic whilst allowing flexible spaces that meet the diverse needs of government departments.
Digital Innovation: Façade patterns optimised through rapid climate assessment and development of a new core distances evaluation tool at the feasibility/massing stage.
The Hub will be a multi-occupied building, made up from over 10 different
government departments and agencies, totalling approximately 2,600 FTE. The two
main anchor departments are the Cabinet Office (CO) and DEFRA (Department of the Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs); both are committed in principle to the
project. CO are expected to recruit in the region of 300 roles into York, some of
which have already been recruited and are based at the existing office at York Kingspool which was part- refurbished in 2024 to ensure a suitable home for Civil Servants prior to the new Government Hub being built. Kingspool already houses circa 1,600 FTE who are all expected to move across to the Hub when ready.
The Hub will also generate a number of roles in facilities management, catering and security.
Minister of State (Education)
I would be happy to meet with the hon. Member for York Central to discuss the proposed Hub in York Central.
The Hub in York Central is expected to open late 2027/early 2028 although this remains subject to final commercial agreements and progress of the wider site infrastructure and Public Realm. The GPA is working in partnership with Homes England, Network Rail and the development partners McLaren and Arlington Real Estate to ensure the masterplan development programme works for all parties.
In support of the recent successful planning application there has been a significant amount of public consultation. This consultation informed the final design to meet local stakeholder feedback. Including:
Public Consultation 01 (17/11/2022-19/11/2022)
Public Consultation 03 (02/03/2023-04/03/2023)
Public Webinar 01 (22/11/2022)
Public Webinar 02 (08/03/2023)
York Central Design Review Panel (12/12/2022)
For the duration of the design development and leading up to the planning application submission there has been extensive discussions with the planning officers at the City of York Council (CYC) along with the relevant design and technical advisors. This proactive engagement through the pre-application process has included the following meetings:
PreApplication Meeting 01 (08/07/2022) - Massing Discussion
PreApplication Meeting 02 (13/09/2022) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 03 (21/09/2022) - Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 04 (21/10/2022 - Highways and Drainage
PreApplication Meeting 05 (22/11/2022)- Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 06 (07/12/2022) - Heritage Impact
PreApplication Meeting 07 (27/02/2023) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 07 (28/06/2023) - Design and Planning Focus
The above meetings sought to discuss the emerging massing, scale and materiality of the Proposed Development. The team held open conversations regarding design development and heritage impact, and planning officers have been supportive of the proposal. The Proposed Development has been sympathetically designed in line with the York Central Outline Planning Application’s approved parameters and design guidance. The comments and observations of the CYC officers have informed the development of the designs throughout the pre-application process.
The Hub has been designed with York at the forefront of the scheme and has been a
collaborative effort between all partners, including CYC and the York Design Review Panel. In particular, the detailed articulation of the façade design celebrates the railway history of the site and the character of its setting, whilst also considering the views from the station platforms and the city walls. The design has also been endorsed by Heritage England and the York Design Trust.
Key highlights include:
Contextual design: Near some of the key historic assets within the City of York such as the City Walls (grade I), the adjacent York Railway Station (grade II*) and the National Rail Museum (grade II). Sustainability and Environmental Considerations: a genuine commitment to achieve BREEAM Outstanding, NABERS UK 5* and EPC A.
Community Involvement: 2 sessions of public engagement and 2 webinars held.
Building Design and Functionality: Innovative, functional well- considered design intended to feel timeless, and dynamic whilst allowing flexible spaces that meet the diverse needs of government departments.
Digital Innovation: Façade patterns optimised through rapid climate assessment and development of a new core distances evaluation tool at the feasibility/massing stage.
The Hub will be a multi-occupied building, made up from over 10 different
government departments and agencies, totalling approximately 2,600 FTE. The two
main anchor departments are the Cabinet Office (CO) and DEFRA (Department of the Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs); both are committed in principle to the
project. CO are expected to recruit in the region of 300 roles into York, some of
which have already been recruited and are based at the existing office at York Kingspool which was part- refurbished in 2024 to ensure a suitable home for Civil Servants prior to the new Government Hub being built. Kingspool already houses circa 1,600 FTE who are all expected to move across to the Hub when ready.
The Hub will also generate a number of roles in facilities management, catering and security.
Minister of State (Education)
I would be happy to meet with the hon. Member for York Central to discuss the proposed Hub in York Central.
The Hub in York Central is expected to open late 2027/early 2028 although this remains subject to final commercial agreements and progress of the wider site infrastructure and Public Realm. The GPA is working in partnership with Homes England, Network Rail and the development partners McLaren and Arlington Real Estate to ensure the masterplan development programme works for all parties.
In support of the recent successful planning application there has been a significant amount of public consultation. This consultation informed the final design to meet local stakeholder feedback. Including:
Public Consultation 01 (17/11/2022-19/11/2022)
Public Consultation 03 (02/03/2023-04/03/2023)
Public Webinar 01 (22/11/2022)
Public Webinar 02 (08/03/2023)
York Central Design Review Panel (12/12/2022)
For the duration of the design development and leading up to the planning application submission there has been extensive discussions with the planning officers at the City of York Council (CYC) along with the relevant design and technical advisors. This proactive engagement through the pre-application process has included the following meetings:
PreApplication Meeting 01 (08/07/2022) - Massing Discussion
PreApplication Meeting 02 (13/09/2022) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 03 (21/09/2022) - Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 04 (21/10/2022 - Highways and Drainage
PreApplication Meeting 05 (22/11/2022)- Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 06 (07/12/2022) - Heritage Impact
PreApplication Meeting 07 (27/02/2023) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 07 (28/06/2023) - Design and Planning Focus
The above meetings sought to discuss the emerging massing, scale and materiality of the Proposed Development. The team held open conversations regarding design development and heritage impact, and planning officers have been supportive of the proposal. The Proposed Development has been sympathetically designed in line with the York Central Outline Planning Application’s approved parameters and design guidance. The comments and observations of the CYC officers have informed the development of the designs throughout the pre-application process.
The Hub has been designed with York at the forefront of the scheme and has been a
collaborative effort between all partners, including CYC and the York Design Review Panel. In particular, the detailed articulation of the façade design celebrates the railway history of the site and the character of its setting, whilst also considering the views from the station platforms and the city walls. The design has also been endorsed by Heritage England and the York Design Trust.
Key highlights include:
Contextual design: Near some of the key historic assets within the City of York such as the City Walls (grade I), the adjacent York Railway Station (grade II*) and the National Rail Museum (grade II). Sustainability and Environmental Considerations: a genuine commitment to achieve BREEAM Outstanding, NABERS UK 5* and EPC A.
Community Involvement: 2 sessions of public engagement and 2 webinars held.
Building Design and Functionality: Innovative, functional well- considered design intended to feel timeless, and dynamic whilst allowing flexible spaces that meet the diverse needs of government departments.
Digital Innovation: Façade patterns optimised through rapid climate assessment and development of a new core distances evaluation tool at the feasibility/massing stage.
The Hub will be a multi-occupied building, made up from over 10 different
government departments and agencies, totalling approximately 2,600 FTE. The two
main anchor departments are the Cabinet Office (CO) and DEFRA (Department of the Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs); both are committed in principle to the
project. CO are expected to recruit in the region of 300 roles into York, some of
which have already been recruited and are based at the existing office at York Kingspool which was part- refurbished in 2024 to ensure a suitable home for Civil Servants prior to the new Government Hub being built. Kingspool already houses circa 1,600 FTE who are all expected to move across to the Hub when ready.
The Hub will also generate a number of roles in facilities management, catering and security.
Minister of State (Education)
I would be happy to meet with the hon. Member for York Central to discuss the proposed Hub in York Central.
The Hub in York Central is expected to open late 2027/early 2028 although this remains subject to final commercial agreements and progress of the wider site infrastructure and Public Realm. The GPA is working in partnership with Homes England, Network Rail and the development partners McLaren and Arlington Real Estate to ensure the masterplan development programme works for all parties.
In support of the recent successful planning application there has been a significant amount of public consultation. This consultation informed the final design to meet local stakeholder feedback. Including:
Public Consultation 01 (17/11/2022-19/11/2022)
Public Consultation 03 (02/03/2023-04/03/2023)
Public Webinar 01 (22/11/2022)
Public Webinar 02 (08/03/2023)
York Central Design Review Panel (12/12/2022)
For the duration of the design development and leading up to the planning application submission there has been extensive discussions with the planning officers at the City of York Council (CYC) along with the relevant design and technical advisors. This proactive engagement through the pre-application process has included the following meetings:
PreApplication Meeting 01 (08/07/2022) - Massing Discussion
PreApplication Meeting 02 (13/09/2022) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 03 (21/09/2022) - Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 04 (21/10/2022 - Highways and Drainage
PreApplication Meeting 05 (22/11/2022)- Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 06 (07/12/2022) - Heritage Impact
PreApplication Meeting 07 (27/02/2023) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 07 (28/06/2023) - Design and Planning Focus
The above meetings sought to discuss the emerging massing, scale and materiality of the Proposed Development. The team held open conversations regarding design development and heritage impact, and planning officers have been supportive of the proposal. The Proposed Development has been sympathetically designed in line with the York Central Outline Planning Application’s approved parameters and design guidance. The comments and observations of the CYC officers have informed the development of the designs throughout the pre-application process.
The Hub has been designed with York at the forefront of the scheme and has been a
collaborative effort between all partners, including CYC and the York Design Review Panel. In particular, the detailed articulation of the façade design celebrates the railway history of the site and the character of its setting, whilst also considering the views from the station platforms and the city walls. The design has also been endorsed by Heritage England and the York Design Trust.
Key highlights include:
Contextual design: Near some of the key historic assets within the City of York such as the City Walls (grade I), the adjacent York Railway Station (grade II*) and the National Rail Museum (grade II). Sustainability and Environmental Considerations: a genuine commitment to achieve BREEAM Outstanding, NABERS UK 5* and EPC A.
Community Involvement: 2 sessions of public engagement and 2 webinars held.
Building Design and Functionality: Innovative, functional well- considered design intended to feel timeless, and dynamic whilst allowing flexible spaces that meet the diverse needs of government departments.
Digital Innovation: Façade patterns optimised through rapid climate assessment and development of a new core distances evaluation tool at the feasibility/massing stage.
The Hub will be a multi-occupied building, made up from over 10 different
government departments and agencies, totalling approximately 2,600 FTE. The two
main anchor departments are the Cabinet Office (CO) and DEFRA (Department of the Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs); both are committed in principle to the
project. CO are expected to recruit in the region of 300 roles into York, some of
which have already been recruited and are based at the existing office at York Kingspool which was part- refurbished in 2024 to ensure a suitable home for Civil Servants prior to the new Government Hub being built. Kingspool already houses circa 1,600 FTE who are all expected to move across to the Hub when ready.
The Hub will also generate a number of roles in facilities management, catering and security.
Minister of State (Education)
I would be happy to meet with the hon. Member for York Central to discuss the proposed Hub in York Central.
The Hub in York Central is expected to open late 2027/early 2028 although this remains subject to final commercial agreements and progress of the wider site infrastructure and Public Realm. The GPA is working in partnership with Homes England, Network Rail and the development partners McLaren and Arlington Real Estate to ensure the masterplan development programme works for all parties.
In support of the recent successful planning application there has been a significant amount of public consultation. This consultation informed the final design to meet local stakeholder feedback. Including:
Public Consultation 01 (17/11/2022-19/11/2022)
Public Consultation 03 (02/03/2023-04/03/2023)
Public Webinar 01 (22/11/2022)
Public Webinar 02 (08/03/2023)
York Central Design Review Panel (12/12/2022)
For the duration of the design development and leading up to the planning application submission there has been extensive discussions with the planning officers at the City of York Council (CYC) along with the relevant design and technical advisors. This proactive engagement through the pre-application process has included the following meetings:
PreApplication Meeting 01 (08/07/2022) - Massing Discussion
PreApplication Meeting 02 (13/09/2022) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 03 (21/09/2022) - Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 04 (21/10/2022 - Highways and Drainage
PreApplication Meeting 05 (22/11/2022)- Design Development
PreApplication Meeting 06 (07/12/2022) - Heritage Impact
PreApplication Meeting 07 (27/02/2023) - Planning focus
PreApplication Meeting 07 (28/06/2023) - Design and Planning Focus
The above meetings sought to discuss the emerging massing, scale and materiality of the Proposed Development. The team held open conversations regarding design development and heritage impact, and planning officers have been supportive of the proposal. The Proposed Development has been sympathetically designed in line with the York Central Outline Planning Application’s approved parameters and design guidance. The comments and observations of the CYC officers have informed the development of the designs throughout the pre-application process.
The Hub has been designed with York at the forefront of the scheme and has been a
collaborative effort between all partners, including CYC and the York Design Review Panel. In particular, the detailed articulation of the façade design celebrates the railway history of the site and the character of its setting, whilst also considering the views from the station platforms and the city walls. The design has also been endorsed by Heritage England and the York Design Trust.
Key highlights include:
Contextual design: Near some of the key historic assets within the City of York such as the City Walls (grade I), the adjacent York Railway Station (grade II*) and the National Rail Museum (grade II). Sustainability and Environmental Considerations: a genuine commitment to achieve BREEAM Outstanding, NABERS UK 5* and EPC A.
Community Involvement: 2 sessions of public engagement and 2 webinars held.
Building Design and Functionality: Innovative, functional well- considered design intended to feel timeless, and dynamic whilst allowing flexible spaces that meet the diverse needs of government departments.
Digital Innovation: Façade patterns optimised through rapid climate assessment and development of a new core distances evaluation tool at the feasibility/massing stage.
The Hub will be a multi-occupied building, made up from over 10 different
government departments and agencies, totalling approximately 2,600 FTE. The two
main anchor departments are the Cabinet Office (CO) and DEFRA (Department of the Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs); both are committed in principle to the
project. CO are expected to recruit in the region of 300 roles into York, some of
which have already been recruited and are based at the existing office at York Kingspool which was part- refurbished in 2024 to ensure a suitable home for Civil Servants prior to the new Government Hub being built. Kingspool already houses circa 1,600 FTE who are all expected to move across to the Hub when ready.
The Hub will also generate a number of roles in facilities management, catering and security.
Minister of State (Education)
Once parts are exported from the UK to the F-35 global spares pool and aircraft assembly facilities, due to the design of the programme, the UK does not have control over whether components are used for specific customer nations or not.
The UK cannot make changes to the F-35 programme unilaterally – it requires agreement across all the Partner Nations.
The only way to prevent UK-produced parts reaching Israel would be for the UK Government to stop the export of parts to the entire F-35 programme, which would prejudice the security of the UK and our allies.
Facing a critical moment for European security and war on our continent, the Government has a solemn responsibility to consider the full implications of our decisions. Undermining the F35 programme would disrupt international peace and security, NATO deterrence and European defence.
Secretary of State for Scotland
Once parts are exported from the UK to the F-35 global spares pool and aircraft assembly facilities, due to the design of the programme, the UK does not have control over whether components are used for specific customer nations or not.
The UK cannot make changes to the F-35 programme unilaterally – it requires agreement across all the Partner Nations.
The only way to prevent UK-produced parts reaching Israel would be for the UK Government to stop the export of parts to the entire F-35 programme, which would prejudice the security of the UK and our allies.
Facing a critical moment for European security and war on our continent, the Government has a solemn responsibility to consider the full implications of our decisions. Undermining the F35 programme would disrupt international peace and security, NATO deterrence and European defence.
Secretary of State for Scotland
Once parts are exported from the UK to the F-35 global spares pool and aircraft assembly facilities, due to the design of the programme, the UK does not have control over whether components are used for specific customer nations or not.
The UK cannot make changes to the F-35 programme unilaterally – it requires agreement across all the Partner Nations.
The only way to prevent UK-produced parts reaching Israel would be for the UK Government to stop the export of parts to the entire F-35 programme, which would prejudice the security of the UK and our allies.
Facing a critical moment for European security and war on our continent, the Government has a solemn responsibility to consider the full implications of our decisions. Undermining the F35 programme would disrupt international peace and security, NATO deterrence and European defence.
Secretary of State for Scotland
The Department for Business and Trade does not hold information on the quantity of goods exported under Open General Export Licences. The principle of such licences – such as those for UK suppliers to the F-35 programme – is that they allow registered companies to export an unrestricted quantity of permitted items.
Due to the design of the programme, the UK Government also does not have access to information about the movement of specific F-35 components around the F-35 global programme, including the provision of parts to specific customers.
Secretary of State for Scotland
The UK Government does not sell F-35 components directly, but licences the export of components to the F-35 global programme from a number of UK suppliers.
The Department for Business and Trade does not hold information on the revenue of companies generated from sales to the F-35 global spares pool.
Secretary of State for Scotland
This Government has no plans to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement with China. This Government will stand firm on issues relating to human rights. My Right Honourable friend the Foreign Secretary raised the case of Jimmy Lai during his recent visit to China from 18-20 October.
Secretary of State for Scotland
Open General Licences (OGLs) are pre-published licences that permit the export of specified items to specified destinations, following an online registration. These licences do not have any approved named recipients, however what they permit and to which destinations must be consistent with the Strategic Export Licensing Criteria (SELC). If this assessment changes for either, then the OGL is amended, typically by removing the destination of concern. Removal of a destination from an OGL does not prevent an exporter from applying for a Standard Individual Export Licence – which would be assessed on its own merits against the SELC.
Secretary of State for Scotland
The scope and terms of Open General Licences (OGLs) are chosen so they are consistent with the SELC. OGLs are typically offered for low risk destinations and low risk items. If our assessment of the risks relating to an OGL changes, then the OGL is amended or revoked. We would expect exporters to apply for a Standard Individual Export Licence where OGLs are not available and we would then be able to make a detailed assessment taking into account the specifics of the application before deciding whether or not to issue a licence.
The UK’s approach is designed to enable a rigorous risk assessment to be carried out before a licence is issued to consider whether goods might be used in a way which is inconsistent with the Strategic Export Licensing Criteria (SELC). The UK does not carry out end-use verification checks overseas after a licence is issued.
Secretary of State for Scotland
This Government is committed to delivering the Plan to Make Work Pay in full and updating Britain's employment protections, so they are fit for our modern economy and the future of work. This includes commitments to support the wellbeing of workers, including their long term physical and mental health, and to ensure employers create and maintain workplaces and working conditions free from harassment. Ministers are identifying the most appropriate delivery mechanisms for the commitments in the Plan, including an Employment Rights Bill that will be introduced to Parliament within 100 days of taking office.
The Foreign Secretary met with President Netanyahu in Israel on 14 July and pushed for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, the upholding of international law, and a rapid increase of aid into Gaza. When it comes to arms exports, this Government will uphold our international legal obligations, ensuring that international law is fully factored into decisions on arms exports in line with the UK’s Strategic Export Licensing Criteria. The Government will now review the advice available and come to a considered decision. The Government will update Parliament as appropriate once this decision has been made.
Secretary of State for Scotland
The Foreign Secretary met with President Netanyahu in Israel on 14 July and pushed for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, the upholding of international law, and a rapid increase of aid into Gaza. When it comes to arms exports, this Government will uphold our international legal obligations, ensuring that international law is fully factored into decisions on arms exports in line with the UK’s Strategic Export Licensing Criteria. The Government will now review the advice available and come to a considered decision. The Government will update Parliament as appropriate once this decision has been made.
Secretary of State for Scotland
The Government recognises the renewable resource that the UK has for geothermal energy. However, the Deep Geothermal opportunities vary across the UK depending on Geology. Geothermal technologies that generate electricity are eligible for Contracts for Difference, which is the Government's main mechanism for supporting low carbon energy generation
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
Meeting the UK’s Clean Energy Superpower Mission and delivering Clean Power by 2030 are vital to enhancing our economic and energy security whilst driving economic growth across the country. This transition will create tens of thousands of opportunities across the sector, from renewables to upgrading the UK’s grid infrastructure.
The Government is backing this ambition with major investment. Over the next three years, over £100 million will boost engineering skills in England. Working with Skills England, this investment will grow the talent pipeline through education, apprenticeships, and new Technical Excellence Colleges. Supported by the Skills Mission Fund, these colleges will tackle engineering shortages critical to the clean energy sector. DESNZ estimates that the offshore and onshore wind sectors could support up to 145,000 direct and indirect job across Great Britain by the end of the decade.
In 2025, DESNZ will publish a full Clean Energy Workforce Strategy, setting out further actions to ensure that the workforce needed for clean energy delivery is in place, and that the jobs created across the country are high-quality, inclusive, and long-term.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
The Government is committed to supporting those who are struggling to pay their energy bills, including the most vulnerable households. We are continuing to deliver the Warm Home Discount which provides a £150 rebate off energy bills for eligible low-income households. Last month I met with energy suppliers to urge them to do everything they can to support consumers struggling to pay their bills, and to sign up to an ambitious set of commitments to take proactive steps to stop further households from getting into debt.
Tax is a matter for HM Treasury.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
Current Government energy efficiency schemes are targeted at low-income consumers and those in the least energy efficient households. Eligibility requirements can be found on gov.uk, www.gov.uk/government/collections/find-energy-grants-for-you-home-help-to-heat.
Through the Warm Homes Plan, we will invest an extra £6.6 billion over the next five years in clean heat and energy efficiency, upgrading five million homes through solutions like low carbon heating and improved insulation. We will set out the full details of our Warm Homes Plan, and the approach to Net Zero Buildings more broadly, after the completion of the Spending Review Process.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
The Government is committed to supporting those who are struggling to pay their energy bills, including the most vulnerable households. We are continuing to deliver the Warm Home Discount which provides a £150 rebate off energy bills for eligible low-income households.
Last month I met with energy suppliers to urge them to do everything they can to support consumers struggling to pay their bills, and to sign up to an ambitious set of commitments to take proactive steps to stop further households from getting into debt.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
It is a commercial matter for energy suppliers and their customers to determine which payment method customers should use. Any consumer who wishes to change their payment method or amend their contract should speak to their supplier. It is worth noting that some consumers may choose to have a prepayment meter as it can help them to budget their energy more effectively.
Last year, Ofgem introduced stringent rules for the installation of involuntary prepayment meters, to improve protections for vulnerable consumers. The Government will continue to work with Ofgem to ensure that suppliers only install involuntary prepayment meters as a last resort.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
The setting of prices for customers on a prepayment meter or on a fixed contract is a commercial matter for energy suppliers. The Ofgem price cap for the period 1 October 2024 to 31 December was published in August, and the price cap level for prepayment meter customers is £1,669 compared to the level set for direct debit customers which is £1,717 for an average household.
More information can be found on the Ofgem webpage - https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/energy-policy-and-regulation/policy-and-regulatory-programmes/energy-price-cap-default-tariff-policy/energy-price-cap-default-tariff-levels.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
The Government is committed to supporting households with the cost of energy this winter, and we are continuing to deliver the Warm Home Discount which provides a £150 rebate off energy bills for eligible low-income households.
The setting of prices for customers on a prepayment meter or on a fixed contract is a commercial matter for energy suppliers. The Ofgem price cap for the period 1 October 2024 to 31 December was published in August, and the price cap level for prepayment meter customers is £1,669 compared to the level set for direct debit customers which is £1,717 for an average household.
I have also outlined our expectation to energy suppliers that they should do everything they can to support customers who are struggling with their bills, especially vulnerable consumers. Last month I met with energy suppliers and encouraged them to sign up to the Voluntary Debt Commitment for this winter, and I will work closely with them in the weeks ahead to ensure vulnerable consumers are supported through this winter.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
The fuel poverty strategy, Sustainable Warmth, was published in 2021 and lays out a plan for how to meet the fuel poverty target.
Given that in 2023 an estimated3.17m households remained in fuel poverty in England, we are conducting a review of the 2021 fuel poverty strategy.
The review, and conclusions with respect to developing an updated fuel poverty strategy, will be published shortly.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
The Government's current energy efficiency schemes are targeted at consumers with low incomes and those in the least efficient households in the UK.
Through the Warm Homes Plan, we will invest an extra £6.6 billion over the next five years in clean heat and energy efficiency, upgrading five million homes through solutions like low carbon heating and improved insulation. We will set out the full details of our Warm Homes Plan, and the approach to Net Zero Buildings more broadly, after the completion of the Spending Review Process.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
The Government is continuing to deliver the Warm Home Discount which provides an annual £150 rebate off energy bills for eligible low-income households. We are also extending the Household Support Fund to help struggling households with bills and essential costs this winter.
We expect energy suppliers to do everything they can to support customers who are struggling with bills, especially vulnerable households. This includes providing extra support to customers in debt, or those at risk of falling into debt, by committing to proactive steps to support consumers.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)
All importers of oil and oil products into the UK must provide proof of origin to demonstrate that goods are not of Russian origin to enforcement authorities. The Government is committed to ensuring that third countries are not used by Russia to evade sanctions and will continue to keep sanctions under review.
The UK will continue to have reliable supplies of fuels from a diverse range of suppliers while we transition to Net-Zero.
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
3 Department for Science, Innovation & Technology Questions
(View all Rachael Maskell's DSIT questions)The Labour Manifesto includes a commitment to “partner with scientists, industry, and civil society as we work towards the phasing out of animal testing”, which is a long-term goal.
While it is not yet possible to replace all animal use due to the complexity of biological systems and regulatory requirements, we support the development and application of approaches that replace, reduce and refine animal use in research (the 3Rs). The Government will publish a strategy to support the development, validation and uptake of alternative methods later this year, which will set out clear objectives and measurable milestones.
We are actively supporting the life sciences sector to ensure that businesses investing in research can access the capital they need to scale up in the UK.
Through initiatives like the £400 million VPAG investment programme, we will expand the UK's capacity for commercial clinical trials and manufacturing, enabling research to have the impact that it deserves.
In addition, UKRI's £118m fund will create five new research hubs across the country, from Glasgow to Bristol, to develop new health technologies in partnership with the life sciences sector.
I welcome the representations from the University of York setting out the opportunities from BioYorkshire. Science and Technology is key for creating growth and prosperity across the UK. DSIT and UKRI continue to support BioYorkshire to explore opportunities for innovation-led growth in this cluster.
10 Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport Questions
(View all Rachael Maskell's DCMS questions)Ministers continue to discuss a distributions deal with the Premier League and EFL on a regular basis, with a clear expectation that any agreement should provide meaningful support across the football pyramid, including grassroots football. While the Football Governance Bill includes a backstop power for the independent regulator to intervene if a deal cannot be reached, this would only apply to distributions between the leagues. As such, Ministers continue to emphasise the importance of a voluntary agreement that delivers broader benefits, including investment in grassroots facilities and programmes.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
We recognise the strength of feeling within the National League regarding promotion arrangements to the EFL and understand the desire for greater opportunities for clubs to progress through the football pyramid. The competitiveness and sustainability of the league system are important considerations, and we appreciate the views of all stakeholders on this issue.
While promotion and relegation structures are ultimately a matter for the leagues themselves, we remain engaged with the football authorities on broader discussions about the future of the game.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
DCMS recognises the importance of local communities and their representatives in shaping a thriving, sustainable visitor economy and the need for their voices to be reflected in local and national decision-making.
The government expects local authorities and tourist boards to engage a broad range of stakeholders (including residents, businesses, and cultural institutions) when developing tourism strategies. This principle of broad representation is embedded in the accreditation criteria for Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs), which are designed to support more coordinated, inclusive and resilient tourism leadership across England.
DCMS recently established the Visitor Economy Advisory Council to bring together industry leaders, regional voices and expert advisers to inform policy and ensure that the sector's growth is inclusive and sustainable. DCMS’ upcoming Growth Strategy for the visitor economy will consider how best to support the sector’s development, including the role of LVEPs - ensuring a coordinated approach to driving growth across destinations and sectors.
Minister of State (Department for Business and Trade)
DCMS recognises the importance of local communities and their representatives in shaping a thriving, sustainable visitor economy and the need for their voices to be reflected in local and national decision-making.
The government expects local authorities and tourist boards to engage a broad range of stakeholders (including residents, businesses, and cultural institutions) when developing tourism strategies. This principle of broad representation is embedded in the accreditation criteria for Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs), which are designed to support more coordinated, inclusive and resilient tourism leadership across England.
DCMS recently established the Visitor Economy Advisory Council to bring together industry leaders, regional voices and expert advisers to inform policy and ensure that the sector's growth is inclusive and sustainable. DCMS’ upcoming Growth Strategy for the visitor economy will consider how best to support the sector’s development, including the role of LVEPs - ensuring a coordinated approach to driving growth across destinations and sectors.
Minister of State (Department for Business and Trade)
DCMS recognises the interest from local areas in exploring ways to support and sustain their visitor economies, including through the use of voluntary tourist levies.
Tourist levies organised by Accommodation Business Improvement Districts, such as those piloted in Manchester and being explored in other parts of the country, are locally driven initiatives that enable participating businesses to pool resources to fund tourism-related services and improvements. While these schemes are still relatively new, DCMS is monitoring their development and engaging with stakeholders to understand their impact.
DCMS has had a range of discussions with local leaders, including directly elected Mayors, about the tools available to support tourism. While the introduction of statutory tourist levies would be a matter for wider cross-government consideration, DCMS is continuing to engage with local authorities and Combined Authorities to understand their ambitions and ensure the sector remains sustainable and competitive.
Minister of State (Department for Business and Trade)
I recognise the strength of feeling within the National League regarding promotion arrangements to the EFL and understand the desire for greater opportunities for clubs to progress through the football pyramid. The competitiveness and sustainability of the league system are important considerations, and the Government appreciates the views of all stakeholders on this issue.
While promotion and relegation structures are ultimately a matter for the leagues themselves, we remain engaged with the football authorities on broader discussions about the future of the game.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
This government recognises the vital role that charities have played in providing, often life-saving work in our society in increasingly difficult circumstances.
DCMS is supporting charities with their financial sustainability in a number of ways. DCMS delivers a number of grant programmes which help voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSEs), including charities. For example, the £25.5m VCSE Energy Efficiency Scheme is supporting frontline organisations across England to improve their energy efficiency and sustainability, through independent energy assessments and capital grants. This funding runs until March 2025.
Support for charities is available through social investment which provides access to grants, repayable finance and a blend of the two. This government is continuing to look at how dormant assets can be used to support the availability of finance to facilitate VCSEs becoming more entrepreneurial and financially resilient. An estimated £350 million will flow into the Dormant Assets Scheme between 2024-28, with details on how this money will be allocated to be provided in due course.
Support is also available through the Contract Readiness Programme, a £900,000 package of support enabling VCSEs in England to better compete for government contracts. The programme provides fully funded training for VCSEs interested in bidding for public contracts. This aims to create more opportunities for VCSEs to secure contracts, helping to diversify their income and increase their sustainability. Since launch, over 850 VCSEs have benefitted from the programme. This programme will run until March 2025.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
This government recognises the vital role that charities play up and down the country, providing crucial support to different groups across society, including the elderly.
DCMS is supporting charities with their financial sustainability in a number of ways including delivering grants, growing the social investment market and supporting their ability to bid for contracts.
Since I was appointed to my role I have not yet had discussions with representatives for clubs for the elderly. However this new government is keen to reset the relationship with civil society, and I would welcome the opportunity to engage and discuss with them.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
This government recognises the vital role that charities play up and down the country, providing crucial support to different groups across society, including the elderly.
DCMS is supporting charities with their financial sustainability in a number of ways including delivering grants, growing the social investment market and supporting their ability to bid for contracts.
Since I was appointed to my role I have not yet had discussions with representatives for clubs for the elderly. However this new government is keen to reset the relationship with civil society, and I would welcome the opportunity to engage and discuss with them.
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)