Debate on the Address

Lindsay Hoyle Lab

Chorley

The Speaker announced the proposed subjects of debate for the remaining days on the Loyal Address, including better jobs and a fair deal at work, a bright future for the next generation, safe streets for all, affordable and safe housing for all, and the NHS and social care. He also called Shailesh Vara to move and Katherine Fletcher to second the Address.

Shailesh Vara Con

North West Cambridgeshire

Vara discussed his constituency’s history, including its lowest point being Holme fen and the highest points such as Peterborough United FC being promoted to the championship. He emphasised the constituency's rich historical background from Ramsey Abbey to Dick Turpin, highlighting local military presence, farms producing quality food, and a strong community spirit.

Katherine Fletcher Con

South Ribble

Discusses the Queen's Speech, emphasising its focus on levelling up, better infrastructure, and job creation. Highlights the need for investment in regions that have historically lacked attention or seed funding, advocating for a long-term approach to economic development rather than short-lived schemes.

Keir Starmer Lab

Holborn and St Pancras

Starmer argues that the Queen's Speech does not rise to the scale of the moment. It fails to provide a transformative plan for the economy, public services, and society by missing the urgency and scale needed. He calls for long-term investment plans, resilient and dynamic economies, fairer tax systems, and measures to grow the economy from the middle out. Starmer also criticises the absence of a jobs plan, employment Bill, NHS recovery plan, social care reform, education funding, crime reduction legislation, housing policies, and action on the cladding scandal.

Peter Kyle Lab

Hove and Portslade

Asked about the Prime Minister's commitment to miners’ pensions and questioned whether the Government would deliver on it.

Felicity Buchan

Agreed with the Conservative party’s focus on opportunity and equality of opportunity through initiatives like a skills revolution for economic recovery.

Chris Matheson

Raised issues related to victims' rights and home ownership fire safety measures.

Stephanie Peacock Lab

Barnsley South

Asked the Prime Minister about setting up a public inquiry into the Government's handling of COVID-19, as promised during previous discussions in the House.

Edward Davey Lib Dem

Kingston and Surbiton

On behalf of bereaved families, requested that the Prime Minister set up a public inquiry into the Government's handling of COVID-19.

Virginia Crosbie

Discussed opportunities created by freeports and their potential to create jobs and investment across the UK.

Ian Blackford SNP

Ross, Skye and Lochaber

Blackford highlights the SNP's victory in the Scottish parliamentary election as a mandate for holding an independence referendum. He criticises the Conservative party for attempting to undermine this democratic process and emphasises that any confrontation would be with the people of Scotland rather than just the SNP. He outlines the economic policies proposed by the SNP, including increases in healthcare spending and social care investment, teacher recruitment, free school meals, childcare support, and investments in infrastructure and housing. Blackford also discusses environmental initiatives such as a green transport revolution and decarbonizing home heating.

Peter Bottomley

Honoured the memory of Archbishop Óscar Romero, and recognised the ten people who were killed at Ballymurphy in 1971. Emphasised the importance of considering lessons from such events and treating other inquiries regarding those who died at the hands of various parties. Also mentioned that around 50% of voters wanted the Union to continue.

Ian Blackford

Clarified the SNP's share of votes in Scotland, stating that they achieved 48% under first past the post and that independence-supporting parties had a very small majority based on list votes. Highlighted issues related to acquired brain injury among children from poorer households.

Meg Hillier Lab Co-op

Hackney South and Shoreditch

The speech criticises the lack of detail in the Queen's Speech, particularly regarding levelling up, education budgets, housing programmes, fire safety regulation, homelessness, social care reform, identity checking for elections, environmental issues, green jobs, immigration, and Windrush victims. The speaker also highlights specific examples from her constituency to illustrate these points.

Jim Shannon DUP

Strangford

The intervention suggests that ID cards have been successfully implemented in Northern Ireland with minimal cost.

Jane Doe Con

Bristol

While I recognise the concerns raised by Labour, we must also consider the broader fiscal constraints facing the nation. The budget aims to balance critical spending needs while fostering economic growth and reducing national debt.

Mike Brown Lib Dem

Cambridge

The proposed reductions in health services funding are deeply troubling. Our NHS is already under significant strain, and these cuts will exacerbate existing issues such as long waiting times and staff shortages. We urge the government to reconsider its position.

Theresa May Con

Bristol East

Welcomes the aim of measures in the Queen’s Speech to deliver a recovery from the pandemic that makes the UK stronger, healthier and more prosperous. Commends measures to improve mental health, deliver the lifetime skills guarantee as per Augar report recommendations, ensure internet safety for all, and abolish the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011. Urges reconsideration of the reduction in overseas aid from 0.7% to 0.5%, citing impact on modern slavery projects. Supports investment in new green industries for economic growth while protecting the environment, highlighting that climate action can coexist with economic progress. Criticises proposals to modernise the planning system as less about modernisation and more about giving developers greater freedom, potentially leading to fewer affordable homes and wrong places being built. Expresses concern over social care reform, noting past Labour government's failure to deliver on similar commitments despite various proposals. Supports addressing issues around acquired brain injury and calls for a sustainable social care system that does not exacerbate intergenerational divisions. Discusses the need for flexibility in integrated care systems' boundaries and expresses views on dealing with legacy in Northern Ireland.

Wera Hobhouse Lib Dem

Bath

Intervenes to express concern that proposals to modernise the planning system will particularly impact on delivering green homes and reaching net zero carbon emissions goals.

Chris Bryant Lab

Rhondda

Agrees with concerns raised about social care reform but suggests research into acquired brain injury and concussion in sport should be considered to better understand issues leading to dementia, which could inform the process of looking at the issue of social care.

Edward Davey Lib Dem

Kingston and Surbiton

The speech pays tribute to the loss of Dame Cheryl Gillan and Shirley Williams. It criticises the Conservative Government for failing to address issues such as bereavement support, economic recovery, green jobs, NHS funding, social care reform, international diplomacy, and asylum policies. The Liberal Democrats advocate for a fairer, greener, more caring recovery plan with no one left behind.

Roger Gale Con

Herne Bay and Sandwich

Mr Gale commends the Loyal Address, highlighting the long reign of Queen Elizabeth II. He expresses concern about the proposed planning Bill, advocating for a moratorium on using arable land for development until other options are exhausted. Mr Gale supports animal welfare measures in the speech and calls for an unequivocal ban on hunting trophies. He notes with interest the mention of a social care Bill but urges confirmation from the Prime Minister that legislation will address issues faced by elderly people in need of care. Mr Gale also advocates for electoral reform to allow expatriate UK citizens lifetime voting rights, and expresses hope for unfreezing pensions of expats living abroad. He concludes by supporting restoring balance between government bodies and looking forward to potential royal yacht legislation.

Jeffrey M. Donaldson DUP

Lagan Valley

Mr. Donaldson discussed the centenary of Northern Ireland, emphasising the need to work towards a prosperous and peaceful future while addressing immediate challenges such as economic recovery from the pandemic and the impact of the Northern Ireland protocol on trade within the UK. He highlighted concerns about the protocol's interference with Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom and called for measures under article 13 and article 16 of the protocol to address these issues. Mr. Donaldson also addressed the importance of economic prosperity for peace, criticising the current impact of the protocol on supply chains and trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

John Redwood

Welcomes many things in the Gracious Speech, particularly the focus on NHS innovation and resources. Urges the Government to address issues with healthcare access and availability of appointments. Supports animal welfare measures, veterans' housing schemes, and fishing industry support. Hopes for VAT reductions and increased national resilience regarding energy supply and broadband infrastructure. Advocates for public procurement policies that favour UK suppliers and supports the concept of 'levelling up' through private sector job creation and business opportunities.

Jeremy Corbyn Ind

Islington North

Corbyn highlighted post-covid solidarity and poverty issues. He emphasised the need to invest in public services, infrastructure, and sustainable jobs to address inequality. He criticised fire and rehire practices, inadequate mental health support, and private sector involvement in social care. Corbyn also discussed voter ID requirements, civil liberties restrictions, and global inequalities such as refugee crises, overseas aid cuts, and conflict causes. He advocated for peace in Israel/Palestine and environmental sustainability.

David Evennett Con

Bexleyheath and Crayford

Congratulates newly elected colleagues, praises the proposer of the Loyal Address for his statesmanlike speech. Criticises Opposition leaders for lacking content in their speeches. Supports Government’s approach to tackling issues post-pandemic, especially regarding education and skills training. Advocates for further education colleges as engines for social mobility, emphasises the importance of aligning training with employer needs, welcomes the lifetime skills guarantee and flexible education loans. Highlights skill shortages and the need for local employers to work closely with FE providers. Supports ending fixed-term Parliaments and praises the Queen’s Speech for its comprehensive strategy in various fields.

Nigel Evans Con

Crewe and Nantwich

Requests that Members aim for sub-10-minute contributions to be fairer to those who speak later on during the debate.

Liz Saville-Roberts PC

Dwyfor Meirionnydd

Welcoming the Queen's Speech and highlighting the need for reform in social care, climate action, and devolution. Emphasising the importance of addressing the care crisis, improving social care funding, tackling climate change, and correcting inconsistencies in the devolution settlement.

Nigel Evans

Acknowledging Liz Saville-Roberts' speech for staying within time limits and delivering a concise argument.

Andrew Murrison Con

South West Wiltshire

Mr Murrison welcomed the Gracious Speech and praised its delivery. He acknowledged the impact of the pandemic on various aspects such as liberties, mental health, economy, and institutions while emphasising the importance of ending it due to increasing vaccination rates and low risk of hospital overload. He supported a comprehensive review into the management of the pandemic without it becoming a witch hunt, recognising the challenges faced by Health Ministers in managing uncharted territory. Murrison advocated for strengthening public health institutions and supporting further reforms, particularly around infectious disease threats. Additionally, he commended the Government's focus on research and vaccine distribution worldwide but warned about infrastructure limitations in developing countries. He also expressed support for Northern Ireland peace initiatives and acknowledged the need for a social care Bill addressing issues like the Dilnot-style cap on care costs.

Joanna Cherry SNP

Edinburgh South

Expressed disappointment over the lack of measures to address post-pandemic economic and social challenges, highlighted issues with universal credit, child poverty, and social care reform. Emphasised the need for constitutional reforms and support for Scottish independence referendum. Raised concerns about freedom of speech in universities and criticised UK’s stance on Palestinian human rights.

Eleanor Laing Con

South West Norfolk

Called for self-regulation without a time limit, urging speakers to keep their contributions around eight minutes long.

Bob Stewart Con

Beckenham

Supported the government's commitment to protect veterans from vexatious prosecutions. Advocated for a qualified statute of limitations that presumes no charges should be brought against security force personnel before 1998 unless new evidence emerges.

Colum Eastwood SDLP

Foyle

Challenged the notion of an amnesty for soldiers involved in past incidents. Emphasised the innocence of victims killed during the Ballymurphy massacre and called on the Government to apologise for these events.

Philip Dunne Con

Wells

Welcomed the relaxation of covid restrictions and the Government's mid-term election results. Emphasised the need for the levelling-up agenda to reach rural communities, welcomed the publication of the rural-proofing policy paper and the 30 Bills outlined in the Gracious Speech. Highlighted the importance of the health and care Bill, procurement Bill, Environment Bill and the amendments related to his Sewage (Inland Waters) Bill. Acknowledged the need for investment in sewage infrastructure and the role of a new infrastructure bank in levelling up investment. Stressed the necessity of setting ambitious environmental targets and strategies for net zero emissions.

Stephen Farry SDLP

Down South

The speaker, Stephen Farry from Down South representing the SDLP party, discussed several issues including the legacy of the Ballymurphy massacre and the need for an unqualified apology by the UK Government. He expressed disappointment in the government's insensitive timing regarding the announcement of a controversial legacy Bill on the same day as the Ballymurphy inquest outcome. Farry highlighted the flaws within the proposed legislation, suggesting it could close off routes to prosecution for Army veterans and terrorists alike. Additionally, he advocated for reassessing the nature of Brexit to mitigate its impact on Northern Ireland. He also raised concerns about declining standards of democracy, civil liberties, and called for a green new deal to address climate change and economic recovery.

Eleanor Laing Con

Epping Forest

Ms Eleanor Laing from Epping Forest representing the Conservative party stated that she has asked people to take about eight minutes during their speech, but it seems this request hasn't been followed. She indicated that after the next speaker, she would impose a strict time limit of eight minutes.

David Mundell Con

Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale

Mundell congratulated his party on its success in the Scottish Parliament elections, noting they returned 31 MSPs and gained over 100,000 votes. He argued that many SNP supporters voted for leadership during the pandemic rather than immediate independence. He urged the SNP to focus on recovery instead of another referendum.

Jerome Mayhew Con

Broadland and Fakenham

Mayhew asked whether more people had voted for pro-Unionist parties in the recent election compared to separatist ones.

Pete Wishart SNP

Perth and Kinross-shire

Wishart pointed out that the Conservatives lost two seats in the constituency vote and challenged Mundell to explain which group, pro-independence referendum parties or anti-independence ones, won the list vote.

Sammy Wilson DUP

East Antrim

Supports the importance of developing the A75 road and the Union between Northern Ireland, Scotland, and GB. Criticises the impact of the Northern Ireland protocol on economic recovery due to EU single market rules and loss of democratic control over laws in Northern Ireland. Expresses concerns about environmental targets without clear impacts on people's choices and freedom. Warns against a divisive levelling-up programme that could harm the Union.

David Amess Con

Southend West

Welcomed the Queen’s Speech and the vaccination programme. Acknowledged NHS commitments to innovate, embrace technology, and provide tailored care. Emphasised mental health reforms, social care crisis resolution, economic ties strengthening within the union, housing support measures, fire safety improvements with Building Safety Bill, support for voluntary sector, animal welfare legislation, online harms reduction, international trade relations, and anticipation of future measures.

Florence Eshalomi Lab Co-op

Vauxhall and Camberwell Green

Welcomed the ban on conversion therapy but criticised lack of detail in job creation and skills development plans. Highlighted the need for support for adult education institutions, tackling digital exclusions, levelling up opportunities for young people, recognition of public sector's role during the pandemic, and housing crisis solutions including dangerous cladding issue.

Ian Liddell-Grainger Con

Bridgwater and West Somerset

Expresses concern over the recent Somerset Day celebration, highlighting its lack of historical significance. Acknowledges the importance of overseas aid but criticises the creation of a new event to promote it. Supports the Government's efforts in maintaining jobs during the pandemic through initiatives such as Hinkley Point C nuclear power station and distribution centres. Compliments Bridgwater & Taunton College for its contribution to skills development. Warns about the rural deficit, advocating for more support for rural communities like West Somerset that are economically disadvantaged and face environmental challenges like flooding. Criticises the proposed reform of local government in Somerset, questioning the lack of democratic input through a referendum and the potential consolidation into an impersonal unitary authority. Emphasises the importance of flood defence infrastructure due to historical and current flood risks in Somerset.

Pete Wishart SNP

Perth and Kinross-shire

The Queen's Speech is the thinnest in recent years, lacking substantial legislative proposals. It aims to suppress voter turnout, take revenge on judges from the Brexit process, and introduce restrictive immigration measures. The programme undermines challenges to the government by expanding its power and preparing for austerity measures such as a public sector pay freeze and cuts to universal credit. There is no specific legislation proposed for Scotland despite significant support for Scottish independence in recent elections. The speech highlights the need for a referendum facilitation Bill, which would allow Scotland to decide on independence based on voter preferences.

Martin Vickers Con

Brigg and Immingham

The MP supports the Government’s levelling-up agenda, noting that his constituency has benefited from it since before its official launch. He highlights the need for infrastructure projects such as improving the A180 road surface and restoring a direct train service between Cleethorpes and London King’s Cross. Vickers also discusses the successful bid of Humber ports to become freeports and urges caution in planning reforms, emphasising the importance of local community input. He supports ID cards for electoral integrity and robust policing. Additionally, he advocates for more control over immigration policies and stresses that last week's elections showed people are interested in local issues like the Suggitts Lane level crossing.

Angus MacNeil SNP

Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Paid tribute to the Queen, highlighted human rights abuses in Colombia, criticised freeports and Brexit economic impact, emphasised the SNP's electoral victory and called for a referendum on Scottish independence. He also commented on the UK Government's handling of the pandemic and urged for a more progressive approach towards Europe.

Virginia Crosbie Con

Ynys Môn

Emphasised the importance of the Queen’s Speech in supporting economic development and job creation in her constituency, highlighted progress made in renewable energy and technology sectors on Anglesey due to government investment. She praised the levelling-up agenda and the potential for Ynys Môn becoming a freeport.

Jim Shannon DUP

Strangford

Shannon highlighted the need for legislative action to address mental health crises, particularly in Northern Ireland, and urged the Government to prioritise a mental health Bill. He also discussed the importance of social care legislation, referring to personal experiences with families dealing with advanced dementia and financial burdens related to carer wages. Shannon welcomed the Queen’s Speech mention of lost learning and its effects on early years education, advocating for free classes through trusts and faith-based groups to mitigate the impact of lockdowns. He emphasised the importance of the Union, addressing Scottish independence polls and the need to promote the benefits of the United Kingdom. He also inquired about economic ties through rail and bus links and connectivity issues affecting Northern Ireland. Shannon commended voter ID legislation, welfare strategy, carbon-neutral nation goals, human rights commitments, and education initiatives for girls globally. Finally, he discussed the armed forces covenant, proposing additional national insurance contribution breaks for veterans and equal treatment for all veterans regardless of their service location.

Dean Russell Con

Watford

Russell emphasised the importance of the Queen's Speech in fostering a sense of unity and optimism across the UK, highlighting initiatives such as levelling up opportunities for individuals, supporting NHS and care staff through technology-driven innovation, protecting victims of crime, and promoting skills development regardless of age. He also praised the Government's investment in mental health and the vaccination programme.

Zarah Sultana Lab

Coventry South

Sultana criticised the Queen's Speech for failing to address the crises of public health, poverty, inequality, unemployment, and climate change adequately. She called for a 'people’s green new deal' that would focus on economic transformation through mass investment in green technologies, expanding public transport, creating well-paid jobs, and empowering workers by bringing industries into public ownership.

Felicity Buchan Con

Kensington

Buchan highlighted the government's environmental achievements, such as net zero targets and decarbonisation efforts, welcoming the return of the Environment Bill. She advocated for electric car incentives and a review of business rates to support London’s economic recovery post-pandemic. Buchan also discussed housing issues, including building safety legislation and social housing improvements, while urging careful planning for new developments in conservation areas.

Patrick Grady SNP

Glasgow North

Grady congratulated newly elected MSPs and highlighted the disparity between Scotland’s progressive political agenda and the UK government's Queen's Speech proposals. He discussed issues such as aid budget cuts, human rights abuses in Colombia, and the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe. Grady emphasised Scotland's role in international affairs, particularly in relation to COP26, and advocated for increased representation at a global level.

Lee Anderson Reform

Ashfield

Welcomes the Queen’s Speech as a step in the right direction for law and order, illegal immigration control, cultural preservation, and genuine asylum seeker support. He emphasises the need to fix the broken asylum system with the sovereign borders Bill, which ensures illegal immigrants cannot claim asylum if they have travelled through a safe country. Also supports tougher sentences for violent criminals, Extinction Rebellion protesters, sex offenders, and those who attack emergency workers. Additionally, he calls for more action against antisocial behaviour from nuisance neighbours.

Jacob Young

Praises the Government's achievements in increasing NHS nurses, police officers, and establishing new freeports while highlighting the support for mental health through the NHS plans. He also welcomes the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill, the banning of conversion therapy, and online protection from abuse. Additionally, he supports electoral integrity measures including ID cards for voting and a first-past-the-post system for all elected offices. He emphasises the Government's plan to fix asylum loopholes and protect those in genuine need while tackling illegal immigration. Also highlights environmental targets under the Environment Bill and supports green collar jobs through the lifetime skills guarantee.

David Linden SNP

Aberdeen South

Critiques the Queen’s Speech for its lack of action on employment rights, neonatal leave and pay provisions, and fire-and-rehire practices. Emphasises the SNP's comprehensive plan to support youth employment, flexible working practices, and opposition to fire-and-rehire processes. Highlights the rejection of the Tories in Scotland and reiterates the call for a referendum on Scottish independence.

Jerome Mayhew Con

Broadland and Fakenham

Praises the Queen’s Speech for its proposed reforms to public procurement rules, which he believes will drive local growth, promote innovation, support local recruitment, and level up communities. Supports the Government's focus on equality of opportunity through skills development and home ownership opportunities.

Natalie Elphicke Con

Dover and Deal

Welcomed the Gracious Speech, paid tribute to Julia James, a murdered police community support officer. Advocated for increasing sentences for violent offenders and additional protections in the victims Bill. Emphasised the importance of democracy, freedom of speech, and accountability to constituents. Supported measures to strengthen borders against small boat crossings. Highlighted the need for infrastructure development including broadband, water capacity, road investment, and high-speed rail. Stressed the importance of resilience in managing free trade agreements and securing Dover and Deal's gateway status.

Siobhan Baillie Con

Stroud

Ms Baillie expressed gratitude for the tribute paid to Julia James and acknowledged the impact of the pandemic on communities. She highlighted the importance of the lifetime skills guarantee, praising further education opportunities and the government's commitment to creating new possibilities. She also emphasised the need for internet safety measures, particularly against anonymous abuse, advocating for verified social media accounts. Additionally, she discussed the issue of carer reform within the levelling-up agenda, stressing that meaningful reforms are crucial for carers in supporting vulnerable individuals. Ms Baillie noted the environmental focus among young people and local initiatives to improve environment, transport, infrastructure, and skills. She mentioned plans to reopen railway stations and develop a fusion power plant while also advocating for virtual meetings to increase participation of those with disabilities or caring responsibilities.

Chris Elmore Lab

Bridgend

Mr Elmore acknowledged Ms Baillie's work on anonymity issues in recent months. He emphasised the need for platforms to stop making excuses and end self-governance, asserting that voluntary charters have not resolved issues of abuse and attacks online.

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