Business of the House

The Leader of the House, Lucy Powell, opened the debate by outlining the Government's upcoming business for the week, including debates on sanctions regulations, renewable transport fuel obligations, and the winter fuel payment. She welcomed the publication of the Grenfell inquiry report and the Government's plans to respond to the findings. In response, the Shadow Leader of the House, Chris Philp, raised concerns about the Government's plans to means-test the winter fuel payment, arguing that this would leave many pensioners in poverty. He also criticised the Government's ethics and integrity, citing issues around political appointments to the civil service. Philp called for a debate on these matters. The debate that followed covered a wide range of topics. Members raised issues such as the closure of post office counters, support for the film and TV industry, the future of the mineworkers' pension scheme, the accountability of private healthcare providers, the health of rivers, the impact of the Government's policies on disabled people, and the provision of GP appointments. Several Members expressed concerns about the Government's decision to means-test the winter fuel payment, arguing that this would have a detrimental impact on vulnerable pensioners. The Leader of the House acknowledged the difficulty of this decision, but defended it as necessary to address the financial challenges inherited from the previous government. Other Members praised the Government's ambition on issues such as home insulation, energy independence, and cleaning up the water industry. There were also calls for debates on topics including grassroots sports, climate protests, veterans' affairs, and support for care leavers. Overall, the debate covered a wide range of policy areas, with Members from across the House engaging in constructive discussions and holding the Government to account on its priorities and decisions.