Business of the House
01 Jul 2026 · Commons Chamber · 98 speeches · Official record
Commons debate API. Not a paper. A named member links to their Institrace record when we hold that seat.
Football at every level, from Sunday league to the world cup, plays an important part in local communities across the United Kingdom. I join my hon. Friend in congratulating Craigmark Burntonians on their success. I recommend, particularly in the light of what is unfolding at the world cup, that she apply for a debate on the importance of football. I am sure it would be well attended. Full speech
Vernon Building Society, which was established in 1924, offers financial services to people in Stockport and across Greater Manchester. It is a true mutual, owned by members, not shareholders. However, as the building society sector grows, there are concerns about meaningful democratic engagement for members. In particular, in Nationwide, which is the largest building society in the world, concerns have been raised about a virtual-only annual general meeting, a lack of member-nominated directors... Full speech
I certainly send everyone my best wishes and I agree with my hon. Friend that Formula 1 and motorsports generally bring a huge advantage to our economy, whether that is through the highly skilled engineers, researchers and developers or the success of British drivers including Sir Lewis Hamilton, George Russell and Lando Norris. We have a great deal to celebrate, and I hope there is more to celebrate in the future. I hope that all fans enjoy the race this weekend, and I thank my hon. Friend for ... Full speech
This Government are absolutely committed to giving every child the best start in life, and I join my hon. Friend in congratulating Ward Jackson primary school on being named one of the top 10 schools in the world for overcoming adversity. I am sure that this achievement would not have been possible without the support of the brilliant staff, the pupils’ hard work and the dedication of the families. Full speech
I am concerned to hear of a business closing, particularly one that has been around for such a long time and which has served a community. I am genuinely sorry to hear that. Small businesses are at the heart of our local communities and economies, and the Government are committed to supporting them in every way that we can, which is why our small business plan will save businesses time and money, boost access to finance and create new opportunities-but I do understand that for some businesses, t... Full speech
Let me draw that to the attention of the relevant Minister. This Government set great store by buses and the environment, but we are encouraging councils and businesses to buy British wherever they can. I will raise that matter directly with the Minister, and we will see whether we can get the update that the right hon. Gentleman is looking for. Full speech
I declare a non-pecuniary interest as the chair of the Public and Commercial Services Union parliamentary group. The Leader of the House and many Members will know that since the payment of civil service pensions was outsourced, there has been near chaos; many civil servants have been unable to retire because they have not received information about their pensions, and retired civil servants have not even been receiving their pension. A written ministerial statement yesterday said that there wil... Full speech
It has been more than two years since the devastating explosion at Coronation Terrace in Willington, and although the immediate emergency has long since passed, the impact on local residents continues. Families have had to live alongside an unsightly, derelict and potentially dangerous site, and there have been prolonged delays in resolving insurance claims involving numerous parties, leaving the community in limbo. As usual, discussions take place behind closed doors, but my constituents deserv... Full speech
I certainly join my hon. Friend in celebrating the remarkable achievement of Sarah Dodd and the Friends of Hexham Priory school, who raised more than £28,000, particularly since it was during a heatwave. I would be happy to raise my hon. Friend’s request for a meeting with the Department for Education so that he can discuss how respite services for families of children with complex needs can be improved, but he will have noticed that the Secretary of State for Education is on the Front Bench and... Full speech
On Tuesday, we learned that the only two major road projects in the east midlands-the A46 in Newark and the A38 in Derby-were to be scrapped. So many questions remain. How were these projects chosen? Why are the only projects being scrapped in the whole country those in the east midlands? Who, if anyone, was consulted? The Labour Mayor of the East Midlands was not. How much money has been wasted over the last 10 years getting to the point that we are at today? Does the Department for Transport e... Full speech
I thank the Leader of the House for the business. I know that he and the whole House will want to join me in congratulating the England football team on their win last night, although I must say I am not sure we should be thanking them for the trauma and heart-stopping cardiovascular workout that I, at least, experienced right to the end. The Prime Minister was quite punishing about the Liberal Democrats at Prime Minister’s questions yesterday for their sanctimoniousness. Let us be clear: we can... Full speech
The right hon. Member for Makerfield (Andy Burnham)-the Prime Minister in waiting-has said that his approach to devolution would be one of urgency, yet we understand that there may be conversations about delaying announcements on local government reorganisation and devolution of powers, so that the new Prime Minister has the glamour of announcing them. Will the Leader of the House put those rumours to bed, and confirm that announcements on the creation of unitary authorities in Hertfordshire and... Full speech
Diolch yn fawr, Mr Llefarydd. On 23 December 2024, my constituent Aaron Jones was killed in a hit and run while walking his dog. The perpetrator was sentenced to four and a half years in prison. Two weeks ago, his widow, Lisa, received a letter from the Ministry of Justice informing her of sentence changes under the Sentencing Act 2026, but she will have to wait until the end of August to know whether the man who took her husband’s life will be released earlier than expected. Does the Leader of ... Full speech
Back in 2022, the Keighley Cougars were awarded over £2 million to replace the Danny Jones stand, which is in dire need of repair, but Bradford council has still not made a decision on releasing this money, despite it having been awarded to the team. Can we have a debate in this place about how we unlock this money, which had been allocated through the Keighley towns fund, so that we can get these projects underway for the benefit of my residents in Keighley? Full speech
The Government have shown a clear commitment to addressing many of the issues facing leaseholders, but may I ask them to go further? I say that because many of my constituents who are leaseholders in a particular building that is under 11 metres tall are facing a bill of £70,000-in fact, the managing agent is asking for £3,000 a month. This is not due to any fault on the part of the leaseholders. Will the Leader of the House ask the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to make a... Full speech
Let me wish the Keighley Cougars well in their endeavours. Also, I hope that Bradford council has heard the hon. Gentleman’s concerns, that it can get on, and that he gets the positive response that he seeks. If that is not forthcoming, perhaps he would seek an Adjournment debate on the issue, in order to hear directly from the Minister, who I am sure will confirm the importance that this Government give to local sport. Full speech
The Chairman of the Committee sends his apologies, Mr Speaker. In addition to the business that the Leader of the House has announced, the Committee has agreed two Select Committee statements: one next Thursday from the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee and one the following Thursday from the Work and Pensions Committee. In addition, in Westminster Hall next week, there will be debates on UK aid policy in the context of global funding trends and on the humanitarian impact of conflicts... Full speech
I thank the hon. Gentleman for giving an update on what the Committee is planning, and I thank the Committee for its work. We were able to provide more time in response to the Chairman’s request last time, and it is good to see that coastal communities are getting a hearing. I am pleased to confirm, as I did in my statement, that the Sir David Amess debate is taking place, and I echo the hon. Gentleman’s words that it is a good opportunity for colleagues to raise any concern. I will give early n... Full speech
I join the hon. Gentleman in congratulating the Isle of Man on Tynwald Day, and wish its people every success going forward. On the issue of frozen state pensions, I cannot respond in any detail now, because it is a pretty complex area and I may well get it wrong. However, I will raise the hon. Gentleman’s concerns with the relevant Ministers, and see whether we can get an update on where we are and what proposals there might be in future. If the hon. Gentleman seeks a debate about this issue-be... Full speech
I declare an interest as chair of the all-party parliamentary group for dairy. I welcome the fact that the Government’s farming road map explicitly designates food production as an issue of national security, but I am deeply concerned that their water White Paper proposes a blanket extension of environmental permitting, from poultry and pig farms to the dairy sector, despite animals in the former being kept mostly indoors and cattle mostly outdoors. My North Cornwall constituents and National Fa... Full speech
Around 59% of children in the most deprived areas reach a good level of development by the time they start primary school compared with 79% in the least deprived areas. Babyzone is a charity set up to level the playing field by providing free-to-access community hubs that offer services to support children’s development. I recently had the privilege of opening Babyzone’s first Scottish hub in Easterhouse, which I know will make a real difference to local families. Will the Leader of the House jo... Full speech
I recently did the school run in Ilkeston with Bebe Newton, experiencing it in the way that she does: in a wheelchair. We navigated broken pavements, uneven crossings and all kinds of poorly placed street furniture. It really showed me the barriers that disabled people face every day of their lives. It was so difficult, mentally and physically exhausting and, at times, dangerous. Will the Leader of the House consider having a debate so that we can examine properly the experiences of disabled peo... Full speech
As ever, my hon. Friend is a champion for the rights of his constituents, and I pay tribute to him for that. We are committed to ensuring that streets and transport networks are accessible for everyone, including disabled people. However, the overall responsibility for the management of pavements, crossings and street furniture lies with the local highway authority. I hope that it has heard his powerful representation on behalf of his constituents. Full speech
It does sound slightly odd, and I share the hon. Lady’s concern. If she provides me with the details, I will take them away and get the Department to look at them to see how the council has interpreted the rules and whether this is the reality, but I hope that the council has heard her remarks. Full speech
Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating the 2nd Wednesfield scout group on its upcoming 100th anniversary? I give particular thanks to Steve Rogers, better known as Codge, for 50 years of service. He has shown incredible dedication to so many young people, over many generations, in and around Wednesfield. Will the Leader of the House join me in thanking Codge and all involved in our scout groups in Wolverhampton and Willenhall, and across the country? Full speech
I join my hon. Friend in congratulating everyone involved with the opening of Cafe Victoria. I know the trials and tribulations of coastal communities, and the important role that cafés and hospitality play. If she wants to make the case directly to a Minister and get that update, I will help her to achieve that. Full speech
Rick Rescorla, a son of Hayle in my constituency, was a security guard in the Twin Towers on 9/11, and is widely credited with saving 2,700 lives while sacrificing his own. Decorated in his career in both the British and US armies, Rick was truly a national hero. Ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, will the Leader of the House grant a debate in Government time on the heroes of 9/11, and also help me secure British and US army representation at a ceremony in Hayle on 9/11? Full speech
The right hon. Gentleman may indeed include that, and I will take this up with the Minister, because I know that his frustrations are shared by many Members of the House. If he lets me have that information, I will get on with it. Full speech
Cellnex estimates that Mid Sussex is ranked 499th out of 650 constituencies for quality of mobile signal strength. The current obligations on mobile operators are clearly failing to provide the coverage that my constituents deserve in villages like Cuckfield, Bolney and Fulking. Will the Leader of the House make time for a debate on the merits of changing these mobile operator obligations, so that we can have the coverage that we so badly need? Full speech
I call the acting Chair of the Backbench Business Committee. Full speech
I am sure Leith is a perfectly lovely town and a fine contender for town of culture; however, my hon. Friend invites me down a route I simply cannot take, because North Shields, a town in my constituency, has also put in a very strong bid-as has Chorley, Mr Speaker-and I do have to return to my constituency, so I have to be careful. None the less, I wish all the towns, including Leith, the very best in their attempts to be crowned the first town of culture. It is a great scheme and, win or lose,... Full speech
As ever, the hon. Gentleman raises a serious matter. I saw those reports, and what is happening is appalling. The UK stands firmly against these attacks, and at this difficult time we stand firmly with the people and Government of Nigeria and with the families of the children who have been abducted. We continue to work closely with the Government of Nigeria, including through our ongoing security and defence partnership. I will raise the hon. Gentleman’s concerns with the Foreign Office. Full speech
Heat-related mortality has taken 10,000 lives in England over the last five years and exacerbated the risk of ill health, from asthma to stroke. With climate degradation, things are only going to get worse. What steps are the Government taking to address this issue and ensure that there are proper facilities in workplaces, homes and communities, to future-proof our society against extreme heat? Full speech
Ward Jackson primary school in Hartlepool has been named one of the top 10 schools in the world for overcoming adversity on behalf of their pupils. In the words of the award organiser, it is a school where “leaders refuse to let circumstance define what a child can become.” Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating pupils, families, governors and especially the extraordinary school staff at Ward Jackson on this brilliant achievement in leaving no child behind, which shows Hartlepool... Full speech
I certainly send my best wishes to Leo for a full recovery. I recall the hon. Gentleman raising Leo’s remarkable story, and I am delighted to hear the news. I also wish him all the very best in relation to the award. There are some remarkable young people, and I hope that Leo is recognised as one of them. Full speech
The Leader of the House will know that I never miss an opportunity to raise the subject of the state of Staffordshire’s roads, but they may not have heard this variant before. Residents in Church Eaton have reported a sinkhole on their high street. I have seen it. Nobody seems able to get it filled in. It is on a main road, close to a primary school, and it has become something of a legend among local residents, to the extent that one constituent wrote a poem about it. Could the Leader of the Ho... Full speech
In short: yes, I do. Our thoughts should be with the victims of these appalling crimes. The perpetrators in grooming gangs and sexual abuse cases must face the full force of the law, whoever they are and wherever they come from-let me be absolutely clear about that. If the individual we are talking about breaches the very strict conditions that have been placed upon him, he will be locked up again immediately-I hope he pays heed to that-but I also know that the Government are exploring every opt... Full speech
In Salisbury, we welcome zero emission buses, and the previous Conservative Administration worked with the ZEBRA-zero emission bus regional area-scheme to deliver 30 new buses. Last week, when I met Ed Wills, the new managing director of Salisbury Reds, we discussed a number of matters, including acoustic measures to mitigate the noise from those buses, but the challenge is that Chinese-manufactured buses are cheaper, and offer greater battery range. The Government need to make a decision about ... Full speech
On Sunday, I was delighted to attend a teatime event with the Fulford community choir. It was an uplifting and joyous event, and I congratulate Gail Sullivan, Wendy Godfrey, Dan Hollinghurst, Rowena Davies and all the volunteers and musicians who helped organise the event. Does the Leader of the House agree that choirs and community events, such as the one at Fulford village hall, do so much to improve mental health, tackle loneliness, and strengthen our communities and villages, such as Fulford... Full speech
My hon. Friend is a strong defender of the interests of her constituents, and I listen very carefully to her concerns. The Government are committed to improving maternity across the country. That is why we have set up a national maternity and neonatal taskforce, and we are very keen to get on with it. If she wishes to apply for an Adjournment debate, she could hear directly from a Minister about how her specific constituency concerns might be addressed, and if she wishes to seek a meeting with M... Full speech
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to praise charities such as Babyzone, which deliver a truly positive impact on local communities. Improving outcomes for pupils in deprived areas is an essential part of this Government’s wider mission to ensure that every child, whatever their background, can succeed. I certainly encourage her to apply for a debate on these matters so that Ministers can not just praise the success of organisations such as Babyzone, but outline plans about what further measures... Full speech
My hon. Friend raises a very important point indeed, which I know is a concern to many of our constituents. The homelessness code of guidance sets out the framework that local authorities must follow in carrying out their homelessness duties. It is not always possible, but the Secretary of State recommends that authorities give careful consideration to those who rely on pets for companionship when making provision for them. I will ensure that Ministers have heard my hon. Friend’s concerns; if th... Full speech
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important case, and share his horror at this horrific attack-our thoughts remain with Harshita’s friends and family, and I understand the strength of feeling about this case. As my hon. Friend points out, there is an ongoing investigation, but I understand that the Home Office will be writing to him soon to address his concerns. Should he want a further meeting with Home Office representatives, I am sure they would be happy to arrange it. Full speech
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter in the House. He is absolutely right to highlight the bravery shown that day by Rick Rescorla. It is an absolutely remarkable story from a very dark day indeed. As we approach the anniversary, I hope that my hon. Friend might consider applying for an Adjournment debate on this subject, to start the build-up to what will be a prolonged and important commemoration of those dreadful events. As for his point about ensuring that servicemen or women are a... Full speech
I am not in a position to help, because I do not understand either. It seems incongruous given what this Government are seeking to do and, I would have thought, with the intended actions of the new Administration in Wales. It is a great deal of money and the need is there, so I do not understand why it has not happened. I hope that the Welsh Government have listened to the very wise words of my hon. Friend. Let us see what happens. Should she want to hear directly from a Minister about what furt... Full speech
Let me think about what the hon. Lady has said and find out from the relevant Department what its plans are. On what might happen in the future, let me reassure her and the House that there will be continuity of government. Of course, if there is a new incoming Administration, it is not unreasonable for them to look at plans, but they will be absolutely aware of the need for local areas and local government to plan for the future. Let me think about the first bit. I reassure her that whatever ha... Full speech
The business for the week commencing 6 July will include: Monday 6 July-Consideration of Lords amendments to the National Security (State Threats) Bill, followed by a motion to approve the draft Environmental Permitting (Waste Controlling or Transporting) and Relevant Functions of Primary Authorities (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2026, followed by a motion to approve the draft Infected Blood Compensation Scheme (Amendment) Regulations 2026, followed by a motion to approve the draft Industria... Full speech
Just over 18 months ago, Harshita Brella was murdered in Corby and her body was found in the boot of a car. We are aware that there is an ongoing police investigation, and none of us wants to do anything to prejudice that, but her family feel isolated; recently, they flew over from India to get an update. When they hear nothing, they feel as though nothing is happening, so will the Leader of the House work with Home Office and Foreign Office colleagues to ensure that the family receive monthly u... Full speech
Many of us remain frustrated by delays to Royal Mail postal deliveries. My constituent Anthony Barnes was removed from a treatment waiting list on three occasions because hospital communications did not arrive in time. I have encouraged local healthcare providers to use Royal Mail’s NHS-specific barcode, which prioritises delivery for health board correspondence. Can I ask the Leader of the House for a ministerial update on Royal Mail’s performance, including uptake of the NHS-specific barcode? ... Full speech
My hon. Friend has been a doughty campaigner for her constituents on the issue of local roads, and I pay tribute to her for that. Her constituents are rightly angry about this issue, and I expect better-well, perhaps I do not, but we ought to-from a Reform county council. I hope the council has heard my hon. Friend this morning. We are doubling investment in local road maintenance, and providing a record £7.3 billion boost for councils over the next four years. My advice to the council is this: ... Full speech
Shabir Ahmed was the ringleader of a disgusting Rochdale grooming gang. He was convicted of serial rapes against young white girls and repeated rapes of a young Asian girl. Today, Shabir Ahmed is being released from prison with a restriction that he should not enter the Rochdale or Oldham boroughs-yet Shabir Ahmed is joint UK-Pakistani national, and he should be deported to Pakistan. Does the Leader of the House agree that the Home Office and the Foreign Office should do everything possible with... Full speech
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to champion the good work of the scouts, and I join her in congratulating the 2nd Wednesfield scout group on its upcoming centenary-a remarkable achievement. I also join her in expressing thanks for the voluntary service of Steve Rogers, and of all scout and girl guide leaders, who generously give their time in support of young people. Full speech
Will the Leader of the House please ask the Foreign Secretary to make a statement on the escalating abduction crisis in northern Nigeria? Reports indicate that some 1,100 people were abducted in the first four months of this year, and last week, gunmen-terrorists-attacked Government Day secondary school in Lassa, Borno state, and abducted 36 students and one staff member during examination time. What representations have the Government made to the Nigerian authorities to strengthen civilian prot... Full speech
My hon. Friend raises an important matter. The Government are working hard to strengthen leaseholder protections through the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 and our forthcoming leasehold and commonhold reform Bill, but I shall certainly seek the update she requests. I remind the House that there is a Backbench Business debate later today on leasehold reform, in which my hon. Friend and other Members will be able to raise these issues and hear directly from the Minister for Housing and Pla... Full speech
I understand the sensitivity of this matter and the distress that the death of Mr Jones and what has happened since must bring to his family. These are difficult decisions, but I understand the hon. Lady’s point about giving families reassurance as far as it can be given. I hope that the Ministry of Justice has heard her comments, and I will raise this case directly with Ministers. If the hon. Lady seeks an Adjournment debate to hear a Minister explain how else this process can be strengthened, ... Full speech
Recognising that the real Golden valley is in Herefordshire, will the Leader of the House give us the forthcoming business? Full speech
Let me join the right hon. Gentleman in sending our congratulations to the England football team-we all look forward to the early hours of Monday morning. Before I respond, let me pay a personal tribute to my predecessor, Sir Neville Trotter, formerly the Conservative MP for Tynemouth for more than 20 years, who, unfortunately, passed away at the weekend. We had our political differences, but he was a much respected politician who dedicated his life to public service. My thoughts-and, I am sure,... Full speech
My hon. Friend raises some interesting concerns, particularly around transparency, and he rightly points out that building societies are a vital and growing part of our economy. I suggest that he should seek an Adjournment debate or a Westminster Hall debate so that he can hear directly from a Minister how his concerns might be addressed. Full speech
My hon. Friend is right to raise that. We know that extreme weather events are getting more common and that these issues will not go away. We are working across Government to respond to severe heatwaves and mobilise support, particularly for the most vulnerable, who are of course at greatest risk of harm. As my hon. Friend will know, the Government are taking action to combat climate change, and I will make sure that the points she raises are shared with the relevant Minister. Full speech
I have not yet had the opportunity to mention the knighting of Kevin Sinfield-a great human being, a brilliant sports player and, I suppose above all, a humanitarian. One of his distinguishing characteristics is his modesty, but modesty cannot be attributed to the new boss at Royal Mail, who is driving that company into the ground, in spite of the efforts of the posties. He has paid himself a £7 million salary in a single year. Can we have a debate about corporate failure and executive reimburse... Full speech
More than 70 organisations and novelist Irvine Welsh are backing the community-led bid for Leith to become the first ever UK town of culture. Can my right hon. Friend put in a word for Leith with Ministers at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and will he make arrangements for a written statement to update us on the timetable of the UK town of culture 2028 competition? Full speech
I join the whole House in congratulating the England team, in particular Tottenham Hotspur academy product Harry Kane for his heroics last night. I am also grateful to the Conservatives for their lecture on sanctimony, though I note that self-awareness was never their strongest trait. This week my community was rocked by the news that Coughlan’s Bakery-a family-run business that been operating in the local area for 89 years-will close its doors for the last time. In their announcement, they say:... Full speech
I call the Liberal Democrat spokesperson. Full speech
Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating Serhat Erdogan and his team on the successful opening of Cafe Victoria? He has taken on a long-empty shop in Grimsby town centre, which shows great confidence in the local economy of Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes. The Government launched community auctions for empty shops; will the Leader of the House help me to get a Government statement on progress on community auctions? Full speech
May we have a statement from a Work and Pensions Minister on the lack of routes through which right hon. and hon. Members can contact the Department on behalf of constituents who, as in the case of one chronically ill lady whom I represent, have lost universal credit and wish to challenge that? She has been struggling for more than a year, whereas we have been struggling only for the last six months, to get an answer out of the Department. When the Leader of the House sends on that request, as h... Full speech
Order. We need to end this session by around 11.45 am, so let’s help each other. I call Siobhain McDonagh to set a good example. Full speech
Questions have also emerged about his lobbying the Bank of England for crypto-friendly policies, having himself invested £215,000 into bitcoin company Stack BTC, alongside former Conservative Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng. Does the Leader of the House agree that Members of this House are public servants and that we should always put our constituents first, before any private interest? Will he use his good offices as Chair of the Modernisation Committee to deliver much-needed reform to the rules on M... Full speech
Yes. I share my hon. Friend’s view about the importance of the primary job of MPs. There was a debate on the issue in Westminster Hall yesterday. This matter was raised on a number of occasions and the Minister without Portfolio set out the current Government’s response. The Government believe that an MP’s primary job is to represent their constituents, which is why we have already made some important changes following the general election to tighten the rules relating to MPs’ second jobs. We ac... Full speech
Order. Have you informed the hon. Member for Clacton that you intended to raise this matter? Full speech
I certainly agree with my hon. Friend that choirs and local events can do so much to support and bring together our local communities, including by helping with mental health and combating loneliness. Volunteers who help to organise events, such as the members of the Fulford community choir, provide an invaluable service to their local community, and my hon. Friend is absolutely right to recognise them. Full speech
The consequences that Anthony faced due to Royal Mail delivery issues are simply unacceptable. My hon. Friend is right that this affects constituents right across the country. I am pleased to say that the Business and Trade Committee continues to look at Royal Mail’s performance, but I will raise this matter with the Department on my hon. Friend’s behalf. Full speech
Order. That completes business questions. Full speech
Yes, in short; I will ask the Secretary of State to ensure that MPs from the area, including the right hon. Gentleman, get the information that they seek. These are very tough decisions indeed. On the one hand, it is quite right that Opposition-and, indeed, Government-Members should call for greater expenditure on defence; that is why every Department has been asked to look at its spending commitments, including Transport. These are tough decisions, and I understand that they are frustrating and... Full speech
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter. Scotland has so many brilliant places to visit, and he is right to promote his city of Dunfermline. We are committed to backing Britain’s tourism industry, which supports over 1.3 million jobs and £64.3 billion in gross value added to the economy. I recommend that he applies for what would be a very popular Westminster Hall debate. Full speech
This weekend, more than half a million people from around the world will descend on the Silverstone circuit-half of which is located in the Buckingham and Bletchley constituency-hopefully to see another British win at the British grand prix. The race will also allow Buckinghamshire to showcase its status as a hub for high-performance engineering in which more than 8,000 people are employed by 1,700 businesses. Will the Leader of the House join me in wishing British racers the best of luck this w... Full speech
In 2023, I secured funds from the last Government to conserve and bring home our 10-foot sea dragon to Rutland. Unfortunately, Rutland county council has now overrun on another project and has decided not bring the ichthyosaur back to Rutland, which will cost our local economy in terms of future prosperity. The local conservator has said that he will reduce the cost of conserving this specimen of national importance, but the council has said that it cannot accept a reduced cost or retender for t... Full speech
I declare an interest as the chair of the all-party parliamentary group on anti-corruption and responsible tax. This week, the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage) declared that he is earning an extraordinary £22,500 per hour working for a gold bullion dealer. Full speech
The Leader of the House will be well aware that our UK Labour Government have given more than £340 million to the Plaid Cymru minority Government in Wales, specifically for those with additional learning needs. Could he explain why this money has not been distributed to local councils, as all 22 local authorities and every teaching union have called for? Why is this vital funding being held back? Why is it not being used to support our Welsh pupils with ALN? I am at a loss to understand it. Coul... Full speech
I thank my right hon. Friend for his campaigning on this matter, which has been raised often with me in this Session. I had hoped that there would be an update to the House; I still have that hope, and I hope that it happens very soon indeed. What the Minister will say is, of course, a matter for the Minister, and I do not want to pre-empt that, but we should expect that update, during which my right hon. Friend and others can raise concerns directly with the Minister. Full speech
The House will be delighted to learn that 17-year-old Leo, whom I have mentioned previously in the Chamber, is now cancer-free after being matched with a stem cell donor. This is excellent news. In addition, Leo is up for an award-the BBC Make a Difference young hero of the year. Will the whole House join me in wishing Leo the best of luck, and perhaps the Leader of the House will root for Leo to go on to win? Full speech
On 15 June, a vehicle crashed through the fence at Sunny Days nursery in Vale Road, Ellesmere Port, injuring a number of children. Thankfully, it does not look as if there has been any long-term damage. The parents want to praise the staff at the nursery and the local residents and businesses who came to the children’s aid, but the incident has raised questions about security and safety standards at nurseries. I understand that the Department for Education is looking at the issue, but will a Min... Full speech
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that matter-she is an assiduous campaigner for her wonderful constituency. It is important that work is done, and that that work is transparent and timely. I encourage the local council to engage with this matter and to work with my hon. Friend to resolve it. It is the council’s responsibility to help with these matters, but I will reach out to the relevant Government Department to request that it provides my hon. Friend with any available guidance. Full speech
St Helier hospital has the fourth best maternity unit in the country, the only exclusively NHS-run assisted conception unit in south-west London, and a specialist gynaecology ward where nurses are highly trained in counselling. Yet all that is set to close next May because of the need for emergency repairs. Could the Leader of the House find time for a debate on those vital services, and whether they be temporarily relocated somewhere else on the St Helier site and returned to the current buildi... Full speech
Increasing numbers of people experiencing homelessness are being forced to choose between accessing accommodation and keeping the pets that provide them with companionship, emotional support, stability and a sense of safety. Street Paws is a leading campaigner to remove this preventable barrier. Pet-inclusive approaches have been introduced successfully in a number of areas, including Greater Manchester, demonstrating that such policies can be implemented safely and effectively. Will the Leader ... Full speech
Let me join my hon. Friend in once again paying tribute to Sir Kevin Sinfield on his well-deserved honour. Royal Mail is the subject of an inquiry that will report back to the House; there will be an opportunity at that point to debate it. If we need further time for debate on the subject, I will give that matter consideration. Full speech
I welcome the hon. Gentleman to his place. I know that the oil and gas sector was a very big issue in the by-election, and the Government take this matter very seriously indeed. I very much regret the loss of jobs that the hon. Gentleman has talked about, but I gently remind him that it is not a new phenomenon; some 70,000 jobs have been lost in the last decade. However, oil and gas come out of the North sea 24 hours a day, every day, and they will continue to do so. We have a mixed economy, but... Full speech
Last week, Sarah, the head of pastoral services at Hexham Priory school, and the Friends of Hexham Priory school began their 24-hour challenge. They raised more than £28,000 by running and walking laps of Wentworth leisure centre in Hexham for a continuous 24-hour period-in one of the hottest weeks on record, no less. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating them on their actions? Will he support a debate in Government time on support for respite services for the families of childr... Full speech
Wolverhampton community radio-101.8 WCR FM-in my constituency provides a vital service for people across the city. It gives a platform to local voices, community groups, charities and volunteers, and keeps residents informed about the issues that matter to them most. I have been on the radio talking about knife crime and the Pride in Place programme. At a time when we have had reductions in local radio services following commercial radio mergers, will the Leader of the House please agree to a de... Full speech
Yesterday, over 50 parliamentarians from across this House and their Ukrainian counterparts wrote to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport about “Masha and the Bear”, a Russian cartoon series in which the militarisation of children and a distinct lack of regard for boundaries are key themes. It is currently streamed to British children on Netflix and ITVX; it is produced by a Russian studio paying tax to the Russian state, and has been labelled an instrument of Russian soft power b... Full speech
My hon. Friend is right that the Department for Education takes the issue very seriously indeed and is looking at these matters. When it has reached its conclusions, I am sure that the relevant Minister will want to bring them to the House. I pay tribute, as my hon. Friend has done, not just to the staff at the nursery but to the whole community, who sound as though they rallied together after this unfortunate and terrible situation. Let us hope that what comes forward makes it much less likely ... Full speech
I am sure that the Leader of the House will want to join the people of the Isle of Man this weekend, as they prepare to celebrate Tynwald Day on Monday. Thank you, Mr Speaker, for hosting the Tynwald day reception in Speaker’s House last night with the Chief Minister, the President of Tynwald and the Speaker of the House of Keys. For several years, I have received correspondence from former constituents who have moved to countries such as Australia and Canada after a lifetime of paying tax in th... Full speech
I share concerns if children are being bombarded with propaganda, because that would be highly inappropriate, and the hon. Gentleman is absolutely right to raise those concerns. I will take them up with the Secretary of State for DCMS and get an update on what the Government intend to do, and can do, about this matter. Full speech
My hon. Friend makes a powerful case for the role that local radio plays in giving a platform to local voices and communities. We have launched our local media strategy, with an increase in community radio funding to £1 million per year. I suggest that my hon. Friend apply for a Westminster Hall debate to discuss the role that radio plays in our local communities, because every constituency will be affected. Full speech
That is a concern for the Government. We want to make sure that everyone has the services they need, and we are keen get that coverage rolled out. I encourage the hon. Lady to seek an Adjournment debate, or perhaps a debate in Westminster Hall, to make her case, so that she can hear directly from the relevant Minister what more we can do. Full speech
After holding a series of stakeholder events with local businesses and charities and an online survey attracting more than 1,000 responses, I have recently published the results of a city centre survey for Dunfermline. That survey highlighted that people are very proud to live in Scotland’s newest city and ancient capital, but that improvements are needed in the city centre itself to improve aesthetics and attract new businesses. Does the Leader of the House agree that the people of Dunfermline ... Full speech
The Government share the hon. Gentleman’s view that it is important that we support farmers, and agree with him about the importance of food security and food production as we go forward. As he alluded to, we need to ensure that what is happening in certain areas of farming and the Government’s plans on water are joined up, because we need to get this right. In order to get an answer from the relevant Minister, I encourage him to apply for an Adjournment debate so that he can hear from them dire... Full speech
EnQuest has just announced that jobs will be lost at the Sullom Voe oil terminal, in the latest blow to the oil and gas sector. Will the Leader of the House allocate Government time for a full debate on the future of the oil and gas sector before it is too late? Full speech
Craigmark Burntonians, a club from my home town and the community I am proud to represent, have won the west of Scotland football league division 3. Vital amateur league football plays a great part in our local communities. I would like to thank Steve Clarke, an Ayrshire man, for his outstanding contribution over the past seven years, which included taking Scotland to the world cup, and that is not to forget our fantastic, amazing fans. Does the Minister agree that those achievements highlight t... Full speech