I want to engage not in the to and fro on which she started her contribution, but on a subject where I think there is unity across the House, which is in the fight against economic crime. Does she agree that if we are to be effective in fighting economic crime, we must have measures that introduce better transparency, that properly fund our enforcement agencies, because, at the moment, they are not fit for purpose, and that also hold to account the enablers of economic crime for the actions that they take?

I very much hope that, when the right moment comes in the economic crime Bill, she will listen carefully to the work that has already been done to try to reinforce the very point that she has just made.

Cheshire has had 189 new officers, and we are seeing results from those additional recruits. There has been a striking improvement in the number of arrests in relation to child abuse cases. Those officers increased from 10 to 46, and last month, we saw 28 extra arrests in Cheshire.

The Home Secretary talks about victims; why is crime up 18% but prosecutions are down 18%?

Is she aware, among student victims of sexual assault, of the use of gagging clauses and non-disclosure agreements in university non-contact agreements? Will the right hon. Lady join me and the universities Minister, the right hon. Member for Chippenham (Michelle Donelan), in asking other colleges to do the same?

One of the recommendations from the Home Affairs Committee was to have RASSO—rape and serious sexual offences—units in all police forces. Will the Home Secretary ensure that all police forces now have those specialist units, because we know if that is the case, it is more likely that investigations will be more thorough, victims will be treated better and convictions will follow?

Constituents are telling me that the long delays at the Passport Office could both badly affect the travel industry and ruin family holidays. We need action now. Will she ensure the backlog is dealt with in the coming weeks?

When I brought to this House the Desecration of War Memorials Bill, she immediately picked it up and ran with it and included it in the policing Bill.

We are looking at the real problems with forensic science since its privatisation. If we are going to catch more criminals and have a more effective criminal justice system, will the Home Secretary make it a priority to ensure that forensic science in every part of the country is as good as it can be?

The public order Bill, as the Home Secretary knows, will be music to the ears of many residents in Ashfield. We have seen these eco whatever-they-ares with their little hammers smashing up petrol stations.

Why has her party done nothing about it for the past 12 years?

I very much welcome the measures to put the victims code on a statutory footing, because these are very basic rights that need to be upheld for anyone who is a victim of crime. One of the other consequences of being a victim of crime is often the mental health fall-out from being involved in that crime and what follows afterwards—the trial or other matters.

Asked about the allocation of £187 million for victim support to Northern Ireland, inquiring if it would be new money or part of Barnett consequentials.

Inquired whether the national security Bill would clarify the legality of a Foreign Secretary meeting a former KGB officer, as was alleged about the Prime Minister in 2018.

The shadow Home Secretary discussed the rise in crime since the 2019 general election, noting that prosecutions have fallen by 18% and the charge rate is at a record low. She criticised the lack of support for victims and the increase in unreported crimes due to delayed court cases and ineffective prosecution systems.

Asked why there had been no mention of a public health approach to tackling serious violence, which has a long-term plan addressing the root causes and is joined up.

Acknowledged crime statistics showing decreases in various types of crime since 2019 but questioned the shadow Home Secretary's focus on negatives without acknowledging successes. He highlighted that violence was down by 8%, knife crime by 4% and theft by 15%.

Noted a decline in police morale since 2010, pointing to diminished resources for the justice system. He emphasised that funding cuts have led to fewer officers, undermining community trust.

Stressed the growing problem of fraud and its impact on the economy, estimating costs around £190 billion annually. She argued for increased funding to enforcement agencies fighting economic crime.

Acknowledged efforts made by the Home Secretary to assist Ukrainian refugees, including a recent example where his neighbour received prompt assistance after contacting the Home Secretary. He praised the rapid response and support provided to families.

Discussed troubling reports of visa issuance issues for Ukrainian families, highlighting cases where visas were issued only partially, preventing entire families from relocating due to Home Office inefficiencies and delays.

I support the Queen's Speech and the programme unveiled by the Government. It sets out to help grow the economy, provide safer streets, and support the recovery of the national health service. The economy is in better shape than expected with a growing economy, moving towards budget balance, and falling national debt. However, there are challenges such as cost of living and inflation; the government has provided £22 billion of support and will monitor the situation further. The programme includes deregulation of EU regulations to boost economic efficiency. Energy is a major challenge, but the Government's approach to nuclear power, oil and gas, and renewables is commendable. Agriculture needs a rethink focusing on resilience and local production rather than trimming hedges. I am concerned about Bank of England independence due to its monetary policy.

The debate is about preventing crime and delivering justice. Stuart McDonald criticises the Home Secretary's claims to be part of the party of law and order, arguing that the Government undermines institutions like human rights laws and protesters' freedoms. He highlights their obsession with pet projects such as the Brexit Freedoms Bill instead of dealing with practical issues like heating homes and food security. The speaker also discusses the need for investment in public services and the urgent requirement to address asylum and immigration system bureaucracy, advocating for an overhaul of the Windrush compensation scheme and a migrants commissioner. McDonald supports Bills on espionage laws reform and economic crime but opposes legislation that attacks human rights.

Nicholas Fletcher highlighted the need for prevention over punishment in dealing with crime. He discussed the disproportionate number of men in prisons, advocating for a comprehensive approach involving various government departments to address underlying issues such as mental health, family dynamics, and peer pressure. He suggested that understanding these factors could prevent crimes from happening.

I am delighted to contribute to the debate, appreciating Merseyside police under Chief Constable Serena Kennedy. The Government missed an opportunity to address the cost of living crisis effectively, with national insurance hikes affecting working people. In St Helens, nine in 10 residents have seen a rise in the cost of living and nearly a quarter struggle with household bills. Food bank use has risen by nearly 900 users over the past year, including 300 children. Labour's approach includes regenerating town centres, investing in education, creating jobs, and taking steps to bring buses back into public ownership. Despite disappointment with the Government's programme, we take responsibility for our community.

Sunderland highlighted Bracknell's safety record, noting its status as the safest major town in Berkshire and 21st safest town in the UK. He provided crime statistics for several areas within his constituency and emphasised the importance of crime prevention measures proposed in the Queen’s Speech. Sunderland welcomed several Bills including the Public Order Bill, Economic Crime Bill, Modern Slavery Bill, National Security Bill, Draft Protect Duty Bill, Online Safety Bill, and Victims Bill. He also noted the government's commitment to adding 20,000 police officers and praised efforts against county lines and drug seizures. Sunderland called for stronger powers in dealing with antisocial behaviour and proposed reviewing IPP prisoners' sentences.

Welcomes many of the initiatives in the Queen’s Speech, particularly those focused on addressing the cost of living crisis and law and order. Criticises the Government for not highlighting immediate tax cuts to address inflationary pressures and put money back into people's pockets quickly. Emphasises the importance of Unionist support and how it benefits Northern Ireland being part of the fifth biggest economy in the world, advocating that the Government should ensure people understand these benefits come from being part of the United Kingdom. Supports initiatives on economic crime and addressing slavery through legislation, but also expresses concerns about measures not applying to Northern Ireland due to its position within the European Union single market and customs union. Criticises the former Prime Minister for her stance on the protocol and calls for action to address it.

Anderson criticises the opposition's stance on law enforcement, highlighting their support for criminals and disruptive protests. He supports larger fines for public nuisances and praises his constituency's safety improvements from CCTV installations to new police recruitment. He also addresses concerns about illegal crossings by dinghies, advocating a strict stance against economic migrants abusing asylum systems.

McLaughlin questions Anderson on the Home Office's conclusions regarding people arriving in small boats being refugees and should be recognised as such. She challenges his assertion that these individuals are merely economic migrants without genuine protection claims.

Sunderland agrees with Anderson on the importance of deterrence, suggesting that longer sentences can prevent crime by making potential offenders reconsider their actions before committing crimes. He highlights rehabilitation as a key aspect of sentencing but underscores the role of deterrence in preventing criminal activity.

Cunningham poses a question to Anderson about whether food banks should still be necessary in 21st century Britain, challenging the notion that poverty and food insecurity are adequately addressed by current policies.

The hon. Joanna Cherry criticised the UK Government for their lack of action on poverty, cost of living crisis, and incompetence in handling immigration, asylum cases, and passport issuance. She also highlighted that the Queen's Speech lacks meaningful proposals to address these issues and expressed concern over the proposed British Bill of Rights which she believes diminishes parliamentary scrutiny. She mentioned her colleague Fiona Glasgow winning a seat for SNP on City of Edinburgh Council. Cherry also criticised the government for failing to uphold ordinary laws, citing examples such as proroguing Parliament unlawfully and undermining agreements with the EU. Furthermore, she expressed opposition to the proposed conversion therapy ban based on concerns about evidence-based policy making and the need for informed debate.

Expressed concern about the weighting of primary and secondary legislation regarding fundamental definitions such as freedom of speech.

Emphasised crime concerns in Peterborough; supported measures against protesters blocking roads and travel encampments. Supported British Bill of Rights, citing its restoration of public confidence in the law and protection of free speech and press freedom. Advocated for the draft victims’ Bill to ensure victim support and natural justice.

Asked if current police powers are sufficient without adding new restrictive measures that could impact peaceful protests.

Agreed with measures against road blockades, deportation of criminals and tackling modern slavery as common-sense actions supported by the public.

The hon. Member criticises the Government's legislation as being motivated by party political advantage rather than addressing real issues such as the cost of living crisis and climate change. She mentions the Public Order Bill, highlighting that it is a response to statue toppling incidents in Bristol but does not address actual crimes. Kerry also discusses the levelling-up agenda, suggesting that the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill lacks substance and is more about spin than delivering concrete benefits to local communities. On Channel 4 privatisation, she argues against the measure as unnecessary and potentially harmful to regional production companies. She welcomes the Online Safety Bill but calls for improvements in its content handling criteria. Kerry supports measures on renters reform and Mental Health Act reform but criticises delays. She also highlights issues with prisoner transfers from prison to hospital and calls for animal welfare legislation like banning imports of products associated with inhumane practices such as foie gras and fur. Finally, she stresses the need for action on the cost of living crisis through a windfall tax on energy companies.

Critiques protesters who use guerrilla warfare tactics, disrupt essential services and intimidate constituents. Supports the Public Order Bill to give police more tools to manage such disruptive minorities.

Expresses frustration with the Queen's Speech for lacking ambition and vision, criticises government cuts affecting frontline policing and criminal justice system leading to a rise in antisocial behaviour. Emphasises need for addressing cost of living crisis.

Responds to the Labour MP's concerns by highlighting local efforts in Hampshire, suggesting similar assertive measures could be taken in Newcastle upon Tyne with adequate conversations with local authorities.

The hon. Member spoke about the platinum jubilee, highlighting Preston's city status and its benefits. He criticised the Government for not addressing the cost of living crisis adequately despite it being a major issue. He also pointed out that crime is up while criminal enforcement is down, which undermines public trust in law enforcement. The speaker expressed concerns over online fraud and the lack of resources allocated to combat it. He mentioned the need for urgent action on scams included in the Online Safety Bill and criticised the data reform Bill as a waste of time. He welcomed the National Security Bill but emphasised the importance of transforming the situation quickly with necessary measures like establishing a cyber-security centre. The hon. Member also discussed the Public Order Bill, expressing concern that it could restrict legitimate rights to protest. On energy security, he supported nuclear power and small modular reactors while opposing fracking due to safety concerns. He advocated for a fair food Act and a comprehensive national food strategy to address food insecurity and poverty. He criticised the Government's approach to Brexit and Northern Ireland protocol, arguing they were undermining international relationships.

Order. We are not under huge time constraints today, which is unusual, so I will not put a time limit on. We will leave it up to people to judge for themselves how long they should speak, but I should just give an indication that 10 minutes is usually the maximum for a Back-Bench speech for all sorts of reasons that I do not need to explain to anyone who feels the atmosphere of this Chamber.

She’s talking about you, Lloyd. [INTERVENTION]

Mine is shorter, but I will extend it now. [Laughter.]

Criticises the Government's legislative programme for failing to address the cost of living crisis, highlighting issues such as soaring energy bills, inflation, NHS waiting lists, and food insecurity. Raises concerns over the government's inability to deliver on levelling up promises due to lack of ambition and will. Calls for bold reforms and support for small businesses, industries, and healthcare system. Suggests scrapping outdated business rates and replacing them with a modern tax system. Expresses disappointment in the Queen’s Speech, urging action against conversion therapy and media bills.

The Liberal Democrats criticise the Queen's Speech for not addressing the cost of living crisis and instead focusing on culture wars. They oppose the replacement of the Human Rights Act with a Bill of Rights, which they argue weakens protections. Moran highlights the absence of laws to make misogyny a hate crime, reform the criminal justice system, or address fraud victims. She shares her experience with online fraud and calls for an online crime agency. Moran also discusses the Vagrancy Act and its impact on homeless individuals, urging its removal before Christmas. Additionally, she raises concerns about universities using gagging clauses in cases of sexual assault, affecting students' ability to speak out.

Critiques the government for not addressing the cost of living crisis adequately, pointing out that millions are suffering from fuel poverty and food insecurity. Urges action such as a windfall tax on energy companies to lower bills and nationalisation of the energy sector. Calls for an emergency wealth tax Bill to raise funds for supporting those affected by the crisis.

The Queen's Speech is criticised for its lack of emergency measures to address the cost of living crisis, such as a windfall tax. The speech also fails to provide necessary support for public sector workers facing real-terms pay cuts due to increased national insurance contributions. Furthermore, it does not include an employment Bill or any significant measures to combat child poverty in the north-east, which has risen by more than a third since 2015. The speaker highlights the need for government intervention and regulation in technology, particularly in addressing online harms and ensuring consumer protection from harmful content and exploitation. She also emphasises the importance of comprehensive digital rights and responsibilities legislation to secure democracy and protect children’s mental health and safety.

The speaker criticises the bills proposed in the Queen's Speech. He mentions that these Bills are divisive, lack substance and fail to address serious issues such as planning policy, refugee handling, conversion therapy legislation, and Home Office incompetence. The speaker also highlights the negative impact of no-fault evictions on private renters and calls for immediate action on tenants' rights.

Mr Gullis thanked the Deputy Speakers for their understanding regarding his absence. He expressed delight at the Queen’s Speech, highlighting its focus on issues raised by constituents in Stoke-on-Trent such as safer streets, Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, Desecration of War Memorials Bill, victims’ rights, Nationality and Borders Act 2022, Public Order Bill, extra police officers recruitment, safer streets fund, mental health act reform bill, online safety bill, levelling-up and regeneration bill, planning reforms, skills and post-16 education act 2022, higher education bill, schools bill. He emphasised the need for victims to have their day in court and receive support after any sentence is given, ensuring fairness for those fleeing persecution from war zones versus illegal economic migrants.

The Conservative Government's promises of addressing regional inequality are empty rhetoric, as evidenced by their track record over the past 12 years. The government has slashed services and infrastructure projects in regions like Sheffield, exacerbating poverty and inequality. In further education, BTECs are crucial for students but could be undermined by the government’s T-level reforms. Cutting BTECs undermines student choice and employer expectations, risking a decline in skills among young people entering the workforce.

The Government have failed to keep citizens safe over the past 12 years, with increased crime rates and decreased charge rates. The Queen's Speech missed an opportunity to address crime effectively, focusing on vague promises instead of addressing local issues like antisocial behaviour and neighbourhood crime in Coventry North East. Police resources are insufficient, leading to a postcode lottery where some areas receive better support than others. For example, Warwickshire has a dedicated off-road bike team while West Midlands does not. The police uplift programme will still leave West Midlands with fewer officers compared to pre-austerity levels. The Prime Minister must commit to returning 1,000 lost officers to the region.

The Queen's Speech is a disappointment as it fails to address the social issues driving criminality such as poverty, destitution, and hopelessness. The current government’s policies exacerbate these issues in Scotland. Poverty is not an accident but a deliberate political choice driven by Westminster's actions. Drug-related deaths are indicative of wider economic problems that require Scottish independence for effective resolution. Energy resources should benefit the people rather than being controlled by HM Treasury, leading to fuel poverty and low pensions. Alternatives like reducing council tax and energy bills through windfall taxes could be implemented if there were political will.

Discussed the importance of Space Hub Sutherland and thanked the Government for their support. Highlighted the contrast between energy production in his constituency and the high cost of heating homes. Criticised the Government's plans to privatise Channel 4, emphasising its role in producing culturally significant British content. Raised concerns about the reduction in combat aircraft numbers and questioned decisions affecting defence spending.

The Queen's Speech fails to address the cost of living crisis adequately. It lacks measures such as an emergency Budget and a windfall tax on energy companies' profits. The speaker highlights increasing hardship in his constituency, including a doubling of client numbers at citizens advice bureaux and a 250% increase in queries related to energy costs. Debt queries have also increased by 200%, with council tax debt being the most significant issue. Food bank usage has seen an over 500% increase. He criticises the Government for not addressing these issues, describing their lack of action as shameful. The speaker welcomes legislation on access to cash but criticises the closure of local bank branches and post offices under the Government's watch. He also supports a complete ban on conversion therapy without any loopholes. He highlights rising crime rates and a decline in charge rates, leading to more criminals going unpunished. Additionally, he discusses the shortage of police officers compared to pre-2010 levels and the issue of apprenticeship funding for Welsh police forces.

The speech criticises the UK Government's legislative programme, particularly focusing on attacks on people’s rights. It highlights issues such as national insurance contributions surpassing income tax for low-income workers and rising energy costs. The MP emphasises environmental initiatives like Mandy Morgan's Scottish Pantry Network and criticises the government's portrayal of refugees as criminals to deflect blame from their policies. Anne McLaughlin also discusses the Bill of Rights, arguing it undermines human rights protections while claiming to protect freedom of speech. She raises concerns about adverse effects on devolution and the Public Order Bill, considering it a dystopian step after previous rejected legislation.

The Conservative Member questions whether the MP supports arresting protestors at a fuel depot in Scotland, and if so, what penalties they should face. This intervention seeks to challenge the SNP's stance on protest rights.

The backdrop to this year’s Queen’s Speech is one of real concern and worry. People up and down the country are terrified as they work out how to manage their ever-thinning finances, making sacrifices for essentials like food and heating. After 12 years of Tory rule, services have been decimated with no plan to restore them, leading to inflation and interest rates rising, and a looming recession. The future for young people is bleak due to community centres serving as both polling stations and food banks, reflecting the consequences of this Tory Government's policies. Labour has gained support in local elections across Britain, including Cardiff North going from 3 to 11 councillors. Meanwhile, the Tories are losing seats nationally, with some candidates refusing to put party logos on their election materials due to scandals. People are working hard and paying more but getting less, demanding solutions rather than rhetoric. Constituents like Linda, an elderly pensioner struggling financially, view current policies as torturous and potentially fatal. The Government's failure to introduce a windfall tax or emergency Budget highlights the lack of support for struggling families facing rising prices and taxes while wages stagnate. Moreover, the incompetence in running Departments creates chaos and confusion, particularly at the Home Office which is not fit for purpose, affecting refugees seeking sanctuary and victims of crime due to underfunding of police forces. The climate crisis is also being ignored with no legislative commitment to net zero or nature recovery, risking global impacts from carbon bombs planned by oil giants. Labour advocates for a mass retrofit programme prioritising energy efficiency to tackle the cost of living crisis.

Welcomes the modern slavery Bill, acknowledges commitments to preacher issues and victim support. Supports national security measures and nuclear power stations while seeking consideration for Northern Ireland’s energy needs. Expresses concern over road blockages and protests. Advocates for justice regarding the Northern Ireland protocol, citing economic impacts and urging action on Brexit freedoms. Emphasises the need to address cost of living concerns and prioritise stability over cultural issues.

The Conservative Government has let criminals off and let victims down. Only 1.3% of reported rapes ever result in a prosecution, with an average delay in getting to court now exceeding 1,000 days for the first time ever. Labour proposed a victims Bill but was refused by the Government.

Pays tribute to police officers and court staff for their efforts during the pandemic. Acknowledges the cost of living challenge and the Government's response with £22 billion injected into households. Highlights three categories of contributions: constructive, variations on 'Everything Conservative bad', and thoughtful contributions. Mentions specific Bills that will enhance safety, protect public locations from terrorist attacks, introduce new legal requirements for public venues, strengthen protections in modern slavery, and restore common sense to the criminal justice system through a Bill of Rights.