House of Commons · General Debate
14 January 2026 · 1 other contributor
Opened by Gareth Thomas Lab/Co-op Harrow West
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Gareth Thomas raised concerns about banks (financial exclusion and access to finance) 2026-01-14 in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Moves a Bill requiring banks to measure their performance in reducing financial exclusion, disclosing such performance, establishing a rating system for banks based on this performance, and mandating cooperation with credit unions and community development finance institutions. The Bill aims at addressing the challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses and financially underserved individuals in accessing affordable credit.
Presents evidence of financial exclusion, such as Dal Dhillon's business being rejected by mainstream banks and turning to CWRT for loans. Cites statistics: more than 20 million adults classified as financially underserved since 2016; nearly half of small businesses rating the availability and affordability of credit poorly; over 12.5 million people without savings in a crisis; almost 2 million using illegal lenders in the past year. Advocates for a fair banking Act that would require FCA analysis, published ratings system, and partnerships with community banks/CDFIs.