Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Business of the House 2025-12-04

04 December 2025 · 46 other contributors

Opened by Jesse Norman Con Hereford and South Herefordshire

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

At a glance

Jesse Norman raised concerns about business of the house 2025-12-04 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Expressed sorrow at Sir John Stanley's death and congratulated Joe Root on his test century
  • Critiqued the Government for not supporting economic growth with the Budget and for the Prime Minister's handling of engagements
  • Defended the pharmaceutical pricing deal with the US and acknowledged the importance of regional airports

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Jesse Norman Con Hereford and South Herefordshire

Expressed sorrow at Sir John Stanley's death, congratulated Joe Root on his test century, criticised the Government for not supporting economic growth with their Budget and for the Prime Minister misusing engagements question. Also raised concerns about reliance on German start-up companies to fill a supposed drone gap for the British Army.

Other contributors (46)
  • Jesse Norman Con Hereford and South Herefordshire

    Critiques the Government's recent Budget, pointing out that no measures have been scored as positive for growth by the Office for Budget Responsibility. Mentions junior doctors planning a third strike this year in the run-up to Christmas. Complains about the misuse of engagements question by the Prime Minister at PMQs.

  • Responded to Jesse Norman's criticisms, paying tribute to Sir John Stanley and congratulating Joe Root. Mentioned initiatives such as the HIV action plan for ending new HIV transmissions in England by 2030, crackdown on town centre crime, and rolling out online access to nearly every GP practice.

  • Jonathan Brash Lab Hartlepool

    Paid tribute to Hartlepool's young people and school staff for their contributions during Parliament Week, showcasing campaigns on litter, bullying, and the environment.

  • Steve McCabe Lab Birmingham, Selly Oak

    Expressed concerns over the trade deal between UK and US on drug prices and medicines. Questioned how the NHS will fund the increased £3 billion cost.

  • Alan Campbell Con Tynemouth

    Defended the pharmaceutical pricing deal with the US, stating it is the best possible deal for patients and the life sciences sector.

  • Liz Twist Lab Blaydon and Consett

    Asked for a debate on steps to implement findings of Cumberlege report regarding patient safety issues with sodium valproate and pelvic mesh.

  • Martin Vickers Con Brigg and Immingham

    Called for Government time for a debate on the role of regional airports, highlighting challenges faced by Humberside airport.

  • Jas Athwal Lab Ilford South

    Asked Leader of the House to press Foreign Secretary about efforts made in the release of Jagtar Singh Johal from detention.

  • Bradley Thomas Con Bromsgrove

    Requested support for reintroducing a flood team maintenance grant to alleviate pressure on volunteer-led rescue charities.

  • John McDonnell Lab Hayes and Harlington

    Asked Leader of the House to urge a ministerial colleague to make a statement on resolving the Birmingham bin dispute.

  • Wendy Chamberlain LD North East Fife

    Raised concerns over delays in visa extension process for an academic due to security checks under ATAS scheme.

  • Stephen Kerr SNP Penryn and Falmouth

    Students at Annan academy have set a fantastic example in voicing their opposition to the proposal to cut free musical instrument tuition. He praised these students for speaking out on an issue that directly affects them.

  • Florence Eshalomi Lab/Co-op Vauxhall and Camberwell Green

    Acknowledged World AIDS Day, thanked Members for cross-party support in highlighting HIV still being a real issue. Condemned the Government for not addressing the stigma associated with HIV.

  • Dave Doogan SNP Angus and Perthshire Glens

    Critiques Brexit's negative impacts, pointing out that it has made the UK £250 million a day worse off. Called for a debate on the catastrophic consequences of Brexit.

  • Danny Beales Lab Uxbridge and South Ruislip

    Discussed an increase in unmanaged houses in multiple occupation in Hillingdon, with significant antisocial behaviour and crime. Called for a proper national regulatory framework for HMOs.

  • Mark Pritchard Con The Wrekin

    Expressed concern over the democratic backsliding in Georgia, suggesting that peaceful protests are being put down by chemical weapons-infused water cannons. Requested a statement from the Foreign Secretary on this matter.

  • Laura Kyrke-Smith Lab Aylesbury

    Addressed the long waiting times for driving tests in Aylesbury, with an average wait of 19 weeks and significant financial burden. Welcomed some Government action but requested more to ensure new drivers are on the road.

  • Sarah Dyke LD Glastonbury and Somerton

    Chaired a briefing for the publication of this year’s Women in Defence charter data report, highlighting low representation of women at director and board levels. Requested a meeting with the relevant Minister to discuss progression of more women into leadership roles.

  • Matt Western Lab Warwick and Leamington

    Discussed devastating floods in south-east Asia affecting Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia due to extreme weather events. Suggested a debate on the climate emergency.

  • John Hayes Con South Holland and The Deepings

    Championed nuclear test veterans who were sent to witness Britain’s first nuclear weapons tests abroad. Requested a meeting with the Prime Minister for these veterans’ issues.

  • Lauren Edwards Lab Rochester and Strood

    Criticised the Environment Agency's budget cuts over a decade, which contributed to illegal waste sites like Brambletree Wharf in her constituency. Requested debate on whether new powers are needed for environmental protection.

  • Responded to concerns about the Environment Agency regarding waste crime. Emphasised the Government's commitment against religious intolerance and willingness to arrange further debates on such issues.

  • Danny Kruger East Wiltshire

    Expressed concern over the abduction of children from a Catholic school in Nigeria, highlighting religious persecution and seeking a debate on addressing it.

  • Jim McMahon Lab/Co-op Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton

    Supported a ten-minute rule Bill introduced by his colleague to address noisy fireworks, raising concern for affected groups like veterans and animals. Requested Government support to expedite the legislation.

  • Caroline Voaden LD South Devon

    Called for a debate on a televised national emergency briefing regarding climate and nature crisis, highlighting expert warnings about escalating risks facing the UK.

  • Alice Macdonald Lab/Co-op Norwich North

    Thanked local groups for their work on sustainability and environment initiatives. Requested a debate to discuss the role of Government in supporting these efforts.

  • Llinos Medi PC Ynys Môn

    Outlined economic challenges facing hospitality businesses in Wales, particularly regarding business property relief. Sought a debate on sustainable solutions for managing costs.

  • Lee Pitcher Lab Doncaster East and the Isle of Axholme

    Thanked volunteer organisations like Rotary clubs and Lions clubs for their work in bringing Christmas spirit to communities, particularly those struggling financially.

  • Clive Jones LD Wokingham

    Highlighted the important role of CLASP charity supporting adults with learning disabilities, emphasising issues such as shorter life expectancy compared to the general population. Requested a meeting with Health Minister for discussion.

  • Sarah Russell Lab Congleton

    Celebrated the No Tier Snooker Society in Congleton that supports early onset dementia patients, advocating for more community initiatives and requesting a Backbench Business debate on this matter.

  • Siân Berry Green Brighton Pavilion

    Called attention to the British-Egyptian political prisoner Alaa Abd el-Fattah's inability to visit his son in the UK, seeking assurances from the Government for ensuring he can travel here.

  • Alex Ballinger Lab Halesowen

    Acknowledged schools participating in UK Parliament Week and requested increased accessibility for school visits due to high demand. Highlighted the importance of educational engagement with democracy.

  • Lisa Smart LD Hazel Grove

    Expressed alarm at rising suicide rates according to ONS data, requesting a debate on Government's approach towards suicide prevention and support for frontline mental health workers.

  • Jo Platt Lab/Co-op Leigh and Atherton

    Celebrated the work of students at Leigh Church of England primary school who are campaigning for teaching assistants, asked the Leader of the House to advise on further ways to campaign.

  • Josh Babarinde LD Eastbourne

    Highlighted an issue with NHS 111’s emergency prescription service regarding those in moving vehicles not being able to get prescriptions. Requested a meeting with the Health Minister.

  • Katrina Murray Lab Cumbernauld and Kirkintilloch

    Called for a debate on the past, present and future of new towns such as Cumbernauld which face challenges despite their legacy of ambition and innovation.

  • Adrian Ramsay Green Waveney Valley

    Coordinated 36 MPs to call for an animal welfare strategy that includes a timebound plan to end the use of farrowing crates and cages in farming by the end of the year.

  • Alistair Strathern Lab Hitchin

    Thanked the Stotfold Good Neighbour Group for their service, which has completed over 15,000 connections for the town, and asked for recognition from the House.

  • Munira Wilson LD Twickenham

    Requested a debate on South Western Railway’s poor performance since nationalisation, leading to residents missing out on work, medical appointments, and education.

  • Alex Mayer Lab Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard

    Asked for a debate on the positive benefits of meanwhile use in revitalising high streets using South Side Studios as an example.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Condemned targeted attacks on Christians in northern Mozambique and urged the Government to outline concrete actions for protection.

  • Chris Hinchliff Lab North East Hertfordshire

    Called for a debate on reversing decades of decline in the natural environment, citing the failure to restore ancient woodland as an example.

  • Luke Myer Lab Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland

    Asked the Leader of the House to ensure a substantive reply for his constituent Caroline who lost her universal credit transitional protection due to falling earnings.

  • Euan Stainbank Lab Falkirk

    Stainbank criticises the House of Lords for holding up Government manifesto commitments in the Employment Rights Bill. He calls on the Leader of the House to schedule an urgent debate on whether to abolish the House of Lords.

  • Andy MacNae Lab Rossendale and Darwen

    MacNae expresses frustration over recent roadworks disruptions in Rossendale due to emergency works by United Utilities. He calls for action from Lancashire county council and proposes a lane rental scheme to address congestion, requesting the Leader of the House to agree to a debate on street works.

  • John Slinger Lab Rugby

    Slinger congratulates schools and youth groups in his constituency for their high engagement with UK Parliament Week. He notes Rugby's success in the event and pays tribute to parliamentary staff, emphasising the importance of engaging young people in politics.

Government Response

Defended the pharmaceutical pricing deal with US; acknowledged importance of regional airports and raised concerns about Eastern Airways situation; assured efforts continue regarding Jagtar Singh Johal’s case; promised to address concerns over flood team maintenance grant; supported Birmingham bin dispute resolution push; expressed commitment to clarity on academic visa processes. Responded to various issues raised by MPs with Government positions and funding announcements, including HIV action plan, HMO regulation, Brexit impact, and climate change priorities. Promised to relay concerns to relevant Ministers. Responded positively to various issues raised, including teaching assistants, emergency prescriptions while moving, new towns' challenges, animal welfare strategy, community groups recognition, railway performance debates, meanwhile use benefits, Mozambique attacks condemnation, and natural environment restoration. Campbell acknowledges the anniversary of Storm Desmond and praises the resilience of Carlisle residents. He expresses support for North Cumbria Search and Rescue's work and urges the county council to enforce street works orders properly, noting increased penalties for offences. Additionally, he congratulates schools and youth groups on their high engagement in UK Parliament Week.

Shadow Response

Jesse Norman

Raised concerns about reliance on German start-up companies to fill a supposed drone gap for the British Army, questioning whether there are plans within the Ministry of Defence to provide strategic leadership, investment, and support to UK-based start-up drone companies.

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