← Back to House of Commons Debates
Banks (Financial Exclusion and Access to Finance) 2026-01-14
14 January 2026
Lead MP
Gareth Thomas
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
No tags
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
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.
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
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.
Gareth Thomas
Lab/Co-op
Harrow West
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.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.