Written questions by Pinkerton.

What assessment he has made of the potential impact of changes to the Mental Health Investment Standard on access to mental health services in Surrey Heath constituency.

There has been no specific assessment of the impact of the Mental Health Investment Standard for the Surrey Heath constituency. The Mental Health Investment Standard is a national initiative which requires integrated care boards (ICBs) to increase investment in mental health services each year. During 2024/25, the NHS Surrey Heartlands ICB continued to meet its commitment in this area, spending over £180 million on mental health services for the local population. This represented an increased investment in this area, compared to spending of £169,092,000 in 2023/24, in line with the requirements. Performance against the standard during 2025/26 will be published in the ICB’s 2025/26 Annual Report.

Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to help tackle damp and mould in social housing in Surrey Heath constituency.

The first phase of Awaab’s Law, which came into force on 27 October 2025, requires all social landlords to repair emergency hazards within 24 hours and fix dangerous damp and mould within fixed timescales.My Department published a response to our consultation on a reformed Decent Homes Standard for social and privately rented homes on 28 January 2026. It can be found on gov.uk here. As part of the new Decent Homes Standard, landlords will need to ensure that their homes are free from damp and mould.

How many Certificates of Origin were granted to UK businesses for goods destined for the EU in 2025.

HMRC does not hold information on how many Certificates of Origin were granted to UK businesses for goods destined for the EU in 2025.

Food and Rural Affairs, what the average cost to businesses is for securing Export Health Certificates.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) does not charge a fee for issuing the Export Health Certificate in relation to the export of live animals and products of animal origin. Exporters are responsible for the costs associated with inspection and certification.

What steps his Department is taking to help improve support for people with eating disorders in Surrey Heath constituency.

The Department is working closely with NHS England to strengthen community-based eating disorder services and to improve outcomes and recovery for patients, including in Surrey Heath.Integrated care boards (ICBs) are responsible for commissioning mental health services for local populations. In doing so, ICBs are expected to be evidence-based by assessing and responding to the needs of their local communities and to ensure services are provided equitably.More widely, through the 10-Year Health Plan, we are transforming mental health services. Since July 2024, over 8,000 additional mental health workers have been recruited towards our target of 8,500 by the end of this Parliament. We are also reaching nearly one million more children and young people by expanding Mental Health Support Teams in schools. In addition, we are investing £13 million to pilot enhanced training for Mental Health Support Team staff, enabling them to provide more tailored support to young people with complex needs, including trauma, neurodivergence, and disordered eating.NHS England has also published new guidance on children and young people’s eating disorders, which places greater emphasis on early identification and intervention across the care pathway, including in schools and primary care settings.

What estimate her Department has made of the most frequently used European airports by UK travellers between January and April 2026.

The Home Office has not made an estimate of the most frequently used European airports by UK travellers between January and April 2026. Border Force’s systems are designed to manage arrivals to the UK and do not routinely record or report the European airport used by UK travellers when departing for Europe. Official statistics on passenger movements are published by the UK Civil Aviation Authority, an arm’s‑length body of the Department for Transport, including monthly UK airport statistics for 2026.UK airport data January 2026 | UK Civil Aviation AuthorityTable_10_1_EU_and_Other_Intl_Pax_TrafficPDF.rdl

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment her Department has made of the role of UK support in strengthening the (a) resilience and (b) long-term sustainability of independent media organisations across Africa.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to media freedom in Africa and around the world, and recognise the vital role that journalists play in upholding human rights, supporting accountable governance, and protecting democracy. We have already taken significant steps to protect and promote media freedom globally, including increasing our funding for the BBC World Service by an additional £33 million over the next three years, taking our annual contribution to £148 million. We will continue to work with African partners to support and protect independent media and media freedom in their countries, with funding decisions kept under regular review.

What estimate she has made of the number of haulier firms which have reported receiving fines for exceeding the EU's 90/180 day rule since the start of the phased introduction of the Entry Exit Scheme.

The Department for Transport does not hold this information. The 90/180 limit is a fundamental part of the EU’s conditions of entry for third country nationals to its territory, including for visa-free travel for short-term visits. As such, it is not UK Government policy.The Department for Transport is undertaking research to improve understanding of the effects of the 90/180 limit on the international operations of GB-based HGV and coach businesses that hold standard international operator licences. The data is currently being processed, and the study’s findings will be published in due course.

What estimate she has made of the number of occasions on which European airports have suspended the Entry/Exit System since its full introduction on 6 April.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully implemented across all Schengen countries on 10 April 2026.EES is an EU system and its implementation is a matter for the EU and member states. The Home Office does not record suspension of border control processes in European airports.

What recent assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the EU’s 90/180 day rule on UK-based haulier operations since the introduction of the Entry Exit Scheme.

The Government continues to listen to concerns raised by sectors affected by the 90/180 rules and will advocate for British citizens abroad. The UK Government is also making every effort to engage with the EU as it rolls out its implementation of Exit and Entry System (EES). However, the 90/180 limit is a fundamental part of the EU’s conditions of entry for third country nationals to its territory, including for visa-free travel forshort-term visits. As such, it is not UK Government policy. Any amendments and exemptions to these rules are the responsibility of the EU and Member States. The Department for Transport is undertaking research to improve understanding of the effects of the 90/180 limit on the international operations of GB-based HGV and coach businesses that hold standard international operator licences. The data is currently being processed, and the study’s findings will be published in due course. Background Note – Further factual information (this may be put into the public domain)Schengen immigration rules are the EU’s condition for entry. Amendments and exemptions to these rules are the responsibility of the EU and Member States. We continue to encourage road haulage and coach operators to take the necessary steps to ensure their UK national drivers who work internationally remain within the limit. When the EU began its phased implementation of EES from 12 October 2025, it introduced new digital checks which automatically calculate the number of days a non-EU national has spent within the Schengen area.Since 10 April the EU’s EES should now be fully implemented across all member states, however there are flexibilities available that allow for the suspension of biometric checks. DfT officials have raised the 90/180 limit as an issue at previous meetings of the UK-EU Specialised Committee for Road Transport, noting that it further restricts the market access arrangements we agreed with the EU in the Trade and Co-operation Agreement. In its recent Visa Strategy the EU has acknowledged the difficulties the 90/180 limit poses for some third country professionals, including hauliers, and proposes to work with Member states to identify pragmatic solutions. The EU Visa Strategy can be found here: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/f873d151-f079-424b-9575-bece4113447c_en?filename=EU%20Visa%20Policy%20Strategy.pdf

What estimate she has made of how many haulier firms have been barred from re-entry to the EU since the start of the phased introduction of the Entry Exit Scheme due to exceeding the EU's 90/180 day rule.

The Department for Transport does not hold this information. The 90/180 limit is a fundamental part of the EU’s conditions of entry for third country nationals to its territory, including for visa-free travel for short-term visits. As such, it is not UK Government policy.The Department for Transport is undertaking research to improve understanding of the effects of the 90/180 limit on the international operations of GB-based HGV and coach businesses that hold standard international operator licences. The data is currently being processed, and the study’s findings will be published in due course.

What representations she has made to EU counterparts on the application of mobility rules to UK haulage operators.

The Government continues to listen to concerns raised by sectors affected by the 90/180 rules and will advocate for British citizens abroad. The UK Government is also making every effort to engage with the EU as it rolls out its implementation of Exit and Entry System (EES). However, the 90/180 limit is a fundamental part of the EU’s conditions of entry for third country nationals to its territory, including for visa-free travel forshort-term visits. As such, it is not UK Government policy. Any amendments and exemptions to these rules are the responsibility of the EU and Member States. The Department for Transport is undertaking research to improve understanding of the effects of the 90/180 limit on the international operations of GB-based HGV and coach businesses that hold standard international operator licences. The data is currently being processed, and the study’s findings will be published in due course. Background Note – Further factual information (this may be put into the public domain)Schengen immigration rules are the EU’s condition for entry. Amendments and exemptions to these rules are the responsibility of the EU and Member States. We continue to encourage road haulage and coach operators to take the necessary steps to ensure their UK national drivers who work internationally remain within the limit. When the EU began its phased implementation of EES from 12 October 2025, it introduced new digital checks which automatically calculate the number of days a non-EU national has spent within the Schengen area.Since 10 April the EU’s EES should now be fully implemented across all member states, however there are flexibilities available that allow for the suspension of biometric checks. DfT officials have raised the 90/180 limit as an issue at previous meetings of the UK-EU Specialised Committee for Road Transport, noting that it further restricts the market access arrangements we agreed with the EU in the Trade and Co-operation Agreement. In its recent Visa Strategy the EU has acknowledged the difficulties the 90/180 limit poses for some third country professionals, including hauliers, and proposes to work with Member states to identify pragmatic solutions. The EU Visa Strategy can be found here: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/f873d151-f079-424b-9575-bece4113447c_en?filename=EU%20Visa%20Policy%20Strategy.pdf

What assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the Entry Exit Scheme on UK travellers and transport flows.

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully implemented across all Schengen countries on 10 April 2026, and the UK Government continues to engage the European Commission and member states to seek prioritisation of fluidity at the border. Additionally, my department has taken on a central role in engagement and preparedness with the transport sector. This includes the juxtaposed portals (Port of Dover, Eurotunnel and Eurostar) where EES checks will take place on UK soil, as well as the aviation industry, non-juxtaposed ferries, cruises and hauliers. HMG has carried out modelling work to assess the possible impacts of EES implementation at the juxtaposed portals and consequential impacts upon the road network throughout Kent. This analysis has been used by the sector and local authorities to implement new processes and mitigations which has significantly reduced the risks of excess delays at the border and impacts to supply chains.

What steps his Department is taking to ensure that jobseekers with professional experience are supported to secure employment reflecting their skills and experience.

This Government is committed to delivering an employment support system that is personalised to individual needs. All jobseekers are entitled to tailored and flexible support through Jobcentre Plus. Work Coaches offer personalised advice to help individuals secure roles which reflect their skills, qualifications and prior experience, alongside targeted job‑search support. The Department for Work and Pensions provides job‑seeking support through a range of channels that can benefit those already with professional experience, including the Find a Job website and financial assistance, for interviews or starting work, through the Flexible Support Fund. Furthermore, the reformed Jobs and Careers Service will place greater focus on career advice and progression and better matching of people’s experience with employer’s needs. Where appropriate, Work Coaches also identify any skills gaps and signpost jobseekers to relevant training and provision, including Skills Bootcamps, apprenticeships, sector‑based work academy programmes (SWAPs), and free courses for jobs, as well as essential English, maths and digital skills. This flexible offer allows experienced jobseekers to update, adapt or build on existing skills to meet current labour market demand. Programmes such as SWAPs can be set up for any sector, allowing them to be responsive to local labour market needs and tailored to priority and emerging sectors across Districts in England and Scotland. The Restart Scheme provides 12 months of personalised and tailored support targeted at those who have been on Universal Credit for 6 months or more and in the Intensive Work Search regime. Providers support participants to break down their employment barriers by developing a bespoke action plan built on understanding their employment history, skills and needs. Additionally, many providers offer a dedicated pathway, providing participants with professional or executive experience access to specialist advisors and tailored support.

What assessment he has made of the potential impact of household income rules within Universal Credit on individuals without independent access to financial resources.

It has not proved possible to respond to the hon. Member in the time available before Prorogation.

What assessment his Department has made of trends in the level of financial hardship among people not eligible for support due to existing means-testing arrangements.

The department's headline poverty statistics, Households Below Average Income (HBAI) statistics - GOV.UK show trends in income-based poverty back to 1994/95, including breakdowns regarding whether families are in receipt of means-tested benefits or not. The figures can be filtered to children, working age adults, and pensioners. The statistics also include measures of material deprivation which provide an indication of peoples’ ability to access or afford a range of everyday goods and services.

What assessment her Department has made of the impact of student loan interest rates on graduates’ financial outcomes.

This government recognises the concerns caused by high student loan account balances and interest rates, resulting from loan plans designed by previous governments. That is why we are capping the maximum interest rates on Plan 2 and Plan 3 student loans at 6% for the 2026/27 academic year, protecting students and graduates from the risk of short-term inflationary pressures.Interest rates affect lifetime repayments for those who repay in full, which includes borrowers with small balances as well as higher earners. Monthly repayments depend solely on earnings above the repayment threshold, and those earning below this level are not required to make any repayments. Outstanding balances are cancelled at the end of the loan term.The government publishes annual forecasts for student loans in England. These include statistics on borrower repayments. The latest publication can be found here: https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/student-loan-forecasts-for-england/2024-25.

Whether his Department plans to review accessibility provisions in community pharmacy services.

The Department recognises the importance of ensuring community pharmacy services are safe and accessible to all patients, including those with disabilities and sensory impairments in Surrey and the Surrey Heath constituency.In addition to the legal requirements under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998, pharmacy businesses have a duty to comply with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) standards for registered pharmacy premises. This requires pharmacies to provide an environment that is safe and accessible for all, taking reasonable steps to remove barriers for patients with disabilities. These standards emphasise the need for pharmacies to make adjustments to facilities and services, such as providing accessible entrances, clear signage, and assistance for individuals with mobility or sensory challenges.To support community pharmacies, and meet their legal duties, the GPhC has issued equality guidance for pharmacies, which outlines best practice for supporting patients with a range of needs. NHS England is also rolling out a Reasonable Adjustment Digital Flag which enables the recording of key information about a disabled patient and the reasonable adjustments to care and treatment that they need, to ensure support can be tailored appropriately and equitably. This is being rolled out nationally across all healthcare settings and will help general practitioners and community pharmacies spot when a patient may need extra support.Whilst no assessment has been made of the accessibility of community pharmacy services in the Surrey Heath constituency, the GPhC is responsible for holding pharmacy businesses to account and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and guidance as part of routine inspections and fitness to practice procedures.

What steps his Department is taking to improve patient safety in community pharmacy settings in Surrey.

The Department recognises the importance of ensuring community pharmacy services are safe and accessible to all patients, including those with disabilities and sensory impairments in Surrey and the Surrey Heath constituency.In addition to the legal requirements under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998, pharmacy businesses have a duty to comply with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) standards for registered pharmacy premises. This requires pharmacies to provide an environment that is safe and accessible for all, taking reasonable steps to remove barriers for patients with disabilities. These standards emphasise the need for pharmacies to make adjustments to facilities and services, such as providing accessible entrances, clear signage, and assistance for individuals with mobility or sensory challenges.To support community pharmacies, and meet their legal duties, the GPhC has issued equality guidance for pharmacies, which outlines best practice for supporting patients with a range of needs. NHS England is also rolling out a Reasonable Adjustment Digital Flag which enables the recording of key information about a disabled patient and the reasonable adjustments to care and treatment that they need, to ensure support can be tailored appropriately and equitably. This is being rolled out nationally across all healthcare settings and will help general practitioners and community pharmacies spot when a patient may need extra support.Whilst no assessment has been made of the accessibility of community pharmacy services in the Surrey Heath constituency, the GPhC is responsible for holding pharmacy businesses to account and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and guidance as part of routine inspections and fitness to practice procedures.

What steps his Department is taking to ensure community pharmacy services are accessible to patients with disabilities in (a) Surrey and (b) Surrey Heath constituency.

The Department recognises the importance of ensuring community pharmacy services are safe and accessible to all patients, including those with disabilities and sensory impairments in Surrey and the Surrey Heath constituency.In addition to the legal requirements under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998, pharmacy businesses have a duty to comply with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) standards for registered pharmacy premises. This requires pharmacies to provide an environment that is safe and accessible for all, taking reasonable steps to remove barriers for patients with disabilities. These standards emphasise the need for pharmacies to make adjustments to facilities and services, such as providing accessible entrances, clear signage, and assistance for individuals with mobility or sensory challenges.To support community pharmacies, and meet their legal duties, the GPhC has issued equality guidance for pharmacies, which outlines best practice for supporting patients with a range of needs. NHS England is also rolling out a Reasonable Adjustment Digital Flag which enables the recording of key information about a disabled patient and the reasonable adjustments to care and treatment that they need, to ensure support can be tailored appropriately and equitably. This is being rolled out nationally across all healthcare settings and will help general practitioners and community pharmacies spot when a patient may need extra support.Whilst no assessment has been made of the accessibility of community pharmacy services in the Surrey Heath constituency, the GPhC is responsible for holding pharmacy businesses to account and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and guidance as part of routine inspections and fitness to practice procedures.