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Business of the House 2025-12-04
04 December 2025
Lead MP
Jesse Norman
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
DefenceEconomyTransportClimateBrexit
Other Contributors: 46
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.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
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.
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.
Alan Campbell
Con
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Shadow Response
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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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
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