Business of the House

Roger Gale Excerpts

Thursday 14th May 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend is a doughty champion for her communities, and I once again pay tribute to her for that. We are committed to regenerating communities through our waste action plan and by investing in libraries, cultural venues and youth services, ensuring that communities across the country get the investment they need. She draws particular attention to Pride in Place, which is not just about investing in local neighbourhoods; it is also about putting people in charge of decisions about their local communities, and the things that they care about and that affect their lives. She makes a strong case for further funding, and I will ensure that the Secretary of State hears that.

[Sir Roger Gale (Herne Bay and Sandwich) (Con)]

First, I thank the Leader of the House for his unfailing courtesy at the Dispatch Box, and for the meticulous manner in which he refers Members’ concerns to the appropriate Ministers. Whoever emerges as the leader of the Labour party, I very much hope that he will remain in his post.

[Sir Ashley Fox (Bridgwater) (Con)]

It might be him!

[Sir Roger Gale]

I would not wish that on him.

Given the Labour party’s manifesto commitments, some of us had rather hoped we might find in the King’s Speech a Bill to ban the proceeds of trophy hunting, something to do with hare coursing or improving farm animal welfare. The sad fact is that there was no such mention of any animal welfare issue whatsoever in the King’s Speech, and I would be grateful if the right hon. Gentleman addressed that.

While I am on my feet, could I also say that, with the hospitality industry on its knees, now is not the moment to introduce a tourism tax?

[Mr Speaker]

Order. I would just say that a good old stager knows how to take advantage, but questions should cover one area, not two at the same time.