Business of the House 2026-01-15

The Leader of the House acknowledged concerns about Iran and pledged to ensure security briefings for opposition members regarding defence matters. He also addressed hospitality issues, noting that the Government provided £4.3 billion in support over three years and implemented measures like easing licensing laws, maintaining alcohol duty cuts, and capping corporation tax to assist pubs.

The MP congratulated Hackney council for its work in improving hospital productivity and facilitating the provision of new general practices, aiming to ensure people receive better primary care to reduce hospital admissions.

The Liberal Democrat spokesperson clarified rumours about joining another party. He discussed the positive narrative around immigration in the UK, emphasising respect for those who have built their lives here while following rules.

Highlighted the negative impact of Home Office policies on visa holders, criticised the long waiting times and poor service standards. Called for a review of these practices and urged more respect from the government.

Defended the government's approach to immigration, acknowledged progress in reducing decision backlogs but noted pre-existing issues. Agreed to raise specific cases with relevant ministers. Acknowledged concerns over taxi licensing deregulation and pledged to consider further legislative options.

Critiqued the deregulation of taxi licensing laws, highlighted issues related to safeguarding, market competition, and service standards. Requested time in Parliament's second session for legislation on cross-border hiring.

Provided updates on upcoming business sessions and debates. Raised concerns about the situation in Bangladesh regarding free elections and protection of minorities, requesting a statement from the Foreign Secretary.

Expressed frustration with ongoing child maintenance issues and requested steps to prevent delaying tactics by high-income non-resident parents.

Described water supply shortages in Sussex and Kent, demanded accountability from South East Water. Requested Government time for discussions on compensation and performance challenges.

Welcomed the possibility of a support package for pubs but urged for wider hospitality industry support.

Requested time for debate on religious persecution listed in the Open Doors report.

Reported long delays in Royal Mail delivery affecting residents, requested an urgent statement from the relevant Minister.

Asked for time allocation for debates on the upcoming national cancer plan to improve survival outcomes.

Sickle cell anaemia is the UK’s fastest growing genetic condition, with nearly 300 babies born with it every year. She raised concerns about the sickle cell day unit at the Royal London hospital facing a questionable six-month trial closure which will put significant pressure on neighbouring services and place patients at serious risk.

The Scottish Borders are being inundated with new energy infrastructure projects due to the planning framework in Scotland which allows these projects despite local concerns. He requested a meeting between the UK Government Energy Minister, the Scottish Government and himself to provide protection for local communities and the environment.

There has been an unchecked rise in houses in multiple occupation in his constituency which is undermining community cohesion and affecting housing availability. He urged the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to reverse the last Conservative Government’s change to legislation allowing HMOs without any local planning process.

Duncan Grocock from Salisbury came to see him about South Western Railway trains being late, with passengers needing compensation for standing on three-carriage trains. He requested a statement from the Department for Transport colleagues on whether commuters can be compensated.

After 14 years of Conservative austerity, councils are left with deep cuts and rising demand. She urged the Government to fund councils based on their need but highlighted that Knowsley’s provisional local government settlement does not meet its pressures.

He congratulated Lord Forsyth on his election as Lord Speaker. He highlighted the redevelopment of Chapelcross nuclear power station in his constituency which requires an extensive connection to the grid but NESO is conducting a review preventing these connections.

A constituent lost job offers due to delays at DVLA while waiting for verification from his hospital consultant. She questioned whether a debate about DVLA delays was now appropriate and requested the Leader of the House to raise her case with Ministers.

He expressed concerns regarding rumours that the assisted dying Bill might not return before the King’s Speech. He urged the Government to ensure adequate time for the bill to pass, noting public support.

She praised Luton Town football club for calling out racist online comments directed at its black players. She requested a statement on the progress of the Online Safety Act 2023 in addressing such issues.

Defended local authorities' autonomy over parking decisions but acknowledged concerns. Stressed that if constituents are unhappy with their representatives, they can take action through democratic processes.

Asked for commitment to use British industry in the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster. Emphasised the importance of supporting local manufacturing and craftsmanship.

Expressed opposition to the cancellation of county council elections, accused the government of attempting to blame others for their decision, requested a prompt statement from the government on this matter.

Invited Members to participate in Brew Monday event with Samaritans. Requested debate on the importance of talking and listening to others for suicide prevention, highlighted government’s £3.6 million investment.

Inquired about support for those affected by CES closure and requested a debate on ECO4's failure to deliver benefits for Welsh households. Asked the Leader of the House to facilitate a meeting with relevant Minister.

Celebrated Amber Valley’s best pubs and welcomed government support but requested assurance on further measures to protect community hubs from rising valuations. Highlighted specific pubs in Amber Valley.

Requested a debate on the Government's road safety strategy, focusing on increasing penalties for dangerous driving and protecting horse riders. Cited 1,600 deaths last year as an argument for stronger measures.

Inquired about the Secretary of State's update on the decision regarding WASPI women and their pension age changes communication. Stressed the urgency for resolution affecting nearly 6,000 constituents.

Congratulated Driffield rugby club on its centenary and invited the Leader of the House to join a charity match at Twickenham. Emphasised the importance of local rugby clubs in engaging youth.

Called for urgent government intervention on business rates for hospitality businesses struggling with survival, highlighting visits to various establishments in her constituency. Requested sector-wide support from the Treasury and Department for Business.

Expressed concerns about dairy farmers competing against cheaper imports without origin labelling, leading to a collapse in milk prices. Requested a meeting with a Minister to discuss supply chain fairness for both farmer and consumer confidence.

Paying tribute to Sue and Dave Cook for their fostering services, encouraging people in St Helens North to consider becoming foster carers.

Expressing concern over the potential scrapping of the older persons' freedom pass by London Councils and requesting Government time for his private Members’ Bill's Second Reading.

Raising concerns about building management companies using in-house insurance brokers, impacting service charges, and seeking parliamentary debate on the issue.

Describing issues faced by residents managed by FirstPort in Cossington, requesting an urgent statement on holding failing management companies accountable.

Addressing the long wait times for basic hearing tests and hearing aid needs met in Doncaster's audiology services, and seeking a debate to raise awareness of this issue.

Concerned about reports of deterioration in security situation for religious minorities in Bangladesh ahead of the parliamentary elections, requesting steps taken by the Government to ensure civilians are protected.

Discussing the need for lessons learned from Storm Goretti's impact on Cornwall, specifically addressing mobile connectivity issues and requesting a discussion with Department of Science Ministers about communications resilience.

Highlighting significant repair problems in Places for People properties and seeking a debate on social housing repairs and oversight.

Concerned about retrospective planning permission granted underhand through unauthorised work, requesting a meeting with relevant Minister to discuss the matter.

Expressed concern about the lack of Government grants for wildfire events and suggested widening the farming recovery fund to cover such incidents. Raised the example of the Langdale moor wildfire which covered 10 square miles.

Called on Biman Bangladesh Airlines to restore its direct flight from Manchester to Sylhet, highlighting the importance for families and businesses. Emphasised the high costs of alternative travel routes through London.

Discussed the closure of a temporary bridge at Darley Abbey Mills due to riverbank deterioration, impacting local businesses and residents. Sought Government support for essential infrastructure when no legal liability is clear.

Highlighted issues with the Department for Work and Pensions concerning arrears in child support payments and delays in employment and support allowance applications. Stressed the need for clearer communication to assist constituents effectively.

Critiqued Worcestershire county council’s failures in meeting statutory duties towards children with special educational needs and disabilities, suggesting a debate on the effectiveness of intervention powers available.

Celebrated Billy Higgins' work at Howe Bridge leisure centre, highlighting his contributions to young people’s confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging through karate sessions.