Direction of Government

Iain Duncan Smith Con

Chingford and Woodford Green

Question

Iain Duncan Smith asked who wrote the Prime Minister's statement.

Minister reply

No specific response provided.

Meg Hillier Lab

Hackney South and Shoreditch

Question

I welcome the Prime Minister to his office and to the Dispatch Box. I raise an important issue about public land which needs to be looked at to build more council and social homes.

Minister reply

I thank my hon. Friend for her welcome and raising a critical issue. I will be looking at a programme for the release of public land to build council and social homes to reduce the housing benefit and temporary accommodation bill, and I look forward to working with her on this issue.

Edward Davey Lib Dem

Kingston and Surbiton

Question

I thank the Prime Minister for his statement and express my concerns about the current political system which concentrates too much power in the wrong hands and leaves people feeling powerless. Will the Prime Minister start work today to change politics so that we can fix our country?

Minister reply

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his contribution and agree that we need to restore trust and change politics. I am pleased that the Government are amending the Representation of the People Act to cap foreign donations and will continue to look at these issues with the defending democracy taskforce.

Emily Thornberry Lab

Islington South and Finsbury

Question

We need to take foreign influence out of our politics by banning foreign money. Given that this will probably be our last chance to protect our democracy before the next general election, will the Prime Minister support my new clause 85 which would ban all foreign donations?

Minister reply

I thank my right hon. Friend and agree with her strongly that we need to restore trust, particularly when it comes to foreign donations. The amendments to the Representation of the People Act will be debated in the House later this week, and we will continue to look at these issues with the defending democracy taskforce.

Edward Leigh Con

Gainsborough

Question

May I congratulate the Prime Minister on his statement about Ukraine and encourage him to meet the Leader of the Opposition to deal with this, to meet our international commitments, to reduce dependency, to ensure that we are living within our means, and to work together and do this now?

Minister reply

I thank the Father of the House for his support on Ukraine. We will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. On meeting our defence commitments and bringing down the welfare bill, I believe we need to do more to give young people work-related opportunities at 16 and support for their mental health.

Barry Gardiner Lab

Brent North

Question

The Prime Minister has spoken about the devolution of power and giving back control. Will he ensure that the proposals for commonhold and leasehold reform give that power and control back to leaseholders?

Minister reply

May I thank my good friend the Member for Brent West and say that I am looking at every facet of the cost of living crisis and at where people face unfair charges that they cannot avoid. I make a direct commitment to him today that it is my intention, and the intention of the Government, to bring forward the commonhold and leasehold Bill to reform this unfair system.

Simon Hoare Con

North Dorset

Question

May I welcome the Prime Minister to his place and sincerely wish him well for the future? He will know the vital importance of livestock farming to this country and the impact of bluetongue. What support can the Government give to livestock farmers?

Minister reply

I say to the hon. Member for North Dorset that I will focus on farming because it is part of this country’s sovereign production and manufacturing capacity. I will allow more flexibility over Defra funding, so that areas that previously could not be used for grazing can be used for that, and to funding to build reservoir capacity on farms.

Bill Esterson Lab

Sefton Central

Question

I warmly welcome my right hon. Friend’s commitment to continuing Britain’s global leadership on climate action, including by going to COP31. How can the Government bring down the disastrously high costs that are crippling the competitiveness of so much of British industry?

Minister reply

I thank my good friend the Chair of the Energy Committee for that contribution. We need to address the cost of energy, which is ruinous for households and businesses. We need to reform the cost of grid connections and the long wait that businesses can face for inward investment.

Alistair Carmichael Lib Dem

Orkney and Shetland

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister's stance on strengthening farming and asks for similar protections for consumers and farmers against imported food produced to lower standards than those in the UK.

Minister reply

Emphasises the consideration of public procurement to support British production and manufacturing, aiming to ensure that British-grown food is served in public institutions, and notes that protectionist measures are a last resort.

Andy McDonald Lab

Middlesbrough

Question

Congratulates the Prime Minister on taking office, acknowledges his remarks on police support, and seeks engagement on the economic sense of insourcing core public services.

Minister reply

Commits to reviewing police funding fairness and supports the manifesto promise of the largest wave of insourcing in a generation, believing it will achieve better results through mayoral and combined authority control.

Esther McVey Con

Tatton

Question

Questions the Prime Minister about the justification for the pay increase for Avanti train drivers.

Minister reply

Defends the agreement with the drivers as necessary for a functioning railway line, particularly addressing the misery caused to constituents under the previous government's management.

Dawn Butler Lab

Brent Central

Question

Thanks the Prime Minister for scrapping the 'aim to permit' system and seeks further support for high street reinvigoration.

Minister reply

Acknowledges the campaign for improved services on high streets and commits to an incentive regime that supports beneficial businesses and takes action against harmful ones.

Lisa Smart Not provided in the exchanges

Question

Encourages the Prime Minister to be more specific about electoral reform, suggesting a national commission on electoral reform.

Minister reply

Acknowledges the importance of electoral reform but argues for a mandate to make changes ahead of a general election to ensure consensus.

Catherine West Lab

Hornsey and Wood Green

Question

Acknowledges the work done to tackle rough sleeping and seeks inclusion of the voluntary sector in the effort.

Minister reply

Commits to involving the voluntary sector in the mission to end rough sleeping, recognising their crucial role in tackling the issue.

Stuart Andrew Con

Pudsey

Question

Questions the Prime Minister about balancing energy security and food security, highlighting an application for a solar farm on prime agricultural land.

Minister reply

Commits to reviewing the situation to ensure a policy that safeguards both food and energy security, praising the clarity of the right hon. Gentleman's point.

Toby Perkins Lab

Chesterfield

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister's commitments and seeks confirmation on his stance at COP31 and on tropical forests.

Minister reply

Commits to supporting rainforest conservation, acknowledges the importance of action on climate to reduce the cost of living, and confirms attendance at COP31.

Dave Doogan SNP

Inverness Nairn Highland and Lochaber

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister, agreeing with his statement that the UK is not working, and asked for a commitment to lower energy bills by £300 before the next general election.

Minister reply

Thanked the MP for his kind words, acknowledged the challenges, and stated that reducing VAT on electricity bills is a sign of intent to address the issue of high energy costs.

Gareth Snell Lab

Stoke-on-Trent Central

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister and suggested promoting British products through public procurement, such as serving British food on British plates.

Minister reply

Commited to supporting British industries and jobs through public procurement and stated that social value weighting can be applied to public contracts to support British-based entities.

Roger Gale Con

North Thanet

Question

Directed the Prime Minister's attention to the predatory activities of National Grid on the Minster marshes.

Minister reply

Agreed to look into the issue and committed to intervene if necessary.

Jessica Morden Lab

Newport East

Question

Thanked the Prime Minister for visiting Port Talbot steelworks and asked for further work to protect the steel industry.

Minister reply

Commited to working with Tata, trade unions, and business to secure and protect the steel industry in Wales.

Richard Tice Ind

North West Cambridgeshire

Question

Critiqued the rush towards renewables and asked when licences for North Sea oil and gas will be approved.

Minister reply

Emphasised the importance of both renewables and fossil fuels in the energy mix and the need for pragmatism.

Seema Malhotra Lab

Feltham and Heston

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to support work experience opportunities for young people and improve apprenticeships.

Minister reply

Commited to working with Members across the House to provide a 45-day work placement guarantee to young people and increase apprenticeships.

Bob Blackman Con

Harrow East

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to bring together Housing First initiatives and enact a Bill to regulate supported housing.

Minister reply

Commited to working with the Communities Secretary to enact the Bill and end rough sleeping.

Debbie Abrahams Lab

Oldham East and Saddleworth

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister and agreed with his comments on social security and tackling NEET rates. Asked about the middle east, specifically about the need to hold Israel accountable for unlawful settlements and humanitarian aid.

Minister reply

Acknowledged the importance of the issue and referenced past statements about the need to re-evaluate the UK's approach. Mentioned concerns over E1 settlements and the potential impact on the two-state solution.

Wera Hobhouse Lib Dem

Bath

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to support a campaign to end the practice of secretly filming women and posting videos online with misogynistic content, and to consider making misogyny a hate crime.

Minister reply

Emphasised the importance of addressing violence against women and girls. Supported Georgia Harrison's campaign to protect women online and promised to support the request for immediate takedown of non-consensual explicit videos.

Yasmin Qureshi Lab

Bolton South East

Question

Asked for assurance that the Casey review's recommendations for carer support will be implemented without funding being a barrier.

Minister reply

Confirmed that social care will be a priority and pledged to support family carers and paid carers. Stated a commitment to implementing a social care system that can be proud of.

Alison Griffiths

Question

Asked if the Prime Minister will enact all 88 recommendations of Sir Jon Cunliffe's report on the water industry without delay.

Minister reply

Acknowledged the importance of the Cunliffe report but noted the need to consider all possible solutions. Criticised the impact of privatisation on the water industry and the burden it places on bill payers.

Mark Sewards

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister's commitment to regulate the funeral industry and asked for a timeline for implementation.

Minister reply

Offered a meeting to listen to families affected by rogue funeral operators and committed to building a programme of change to address the issue.

John Whittingdale Con

Maldon

Question

Asked for business rates relief for all high street businesses to support those not already receiving it, such as hair salons, post offices, and booksellers.

Minister reply

Confirmed the need for further support for high streets, promising to look at rebalancing the system and supporting businesses that do public good.

Stella Creasy Lab

Walthamstow

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister's ambition and expressed concern about the influence of large donations on British politics. Asked if the defending democracy review will look at caps on UK individual and company donors.

Minister reply

Acknowledged the importance of the issue and confirmed the need to go further than the Bill being debated later in the week. Encouraged engagement with the defending democracy taskforce.

Martin Vickers Con

Cleethorpes

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to have a word with the Transport Secretary to look at providing a direct train service from London to northern Lincolnshire, which the MP has been campaigning for 15 years. Mentioned the support of his Parliamentary Private Secretary, Sir Nicholas Dakin.

Minister reply

Acknowledged the issue raised and offered to fix a meeting with the No. 10 North team for the MP to put his case forward. Emphasised the importance of public control of railways to deliver public benefit and improve connectivity.

Zubir Ahmed

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to support Glasgow in moving its bus system under public control, given the high cost and poor connectivity compared to the past.

Minister reply

Confirmed that there have been efforts to put the bus system under public control in Glasgow, but noted a lack of support from the Scottish Government. Suggested that a city like Glasgow should have public transport under its own control and stressed the need for fair infrastructure across the UK.

Helen Morgan

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to clarify when authorities such as Shropshire will get devolved powers and resources so they can start improving the lives of people in North Shropshire.

Minister reply

Offered a devolution deal for every part of England, with or without an elected mayor, based on unitary local government. Suggested a possible deal for Shropshire based on unitary authority if that is the settled view.

Rachael Maskell Lab

York Central

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to work with her on ensuring devolution not just of power but of scrutiny to hold bodies accountable, particularly in relation to a public inquiry into a mental health trust that has been promised but delayed.

Minister reply

Agreed to meet with the MP to discuss this in more detail, noting the importance of holding NHS organisations and bodies to account.

Chris Law SNP

Dundee West

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to recognise his lack of mandate to defy the constitutional wishes of the people of Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, and to include a pathway for each nation to choose their own future in any written constitution or devolution agenda.

Minister reply

Clarified that his statements were not intended to defy the Good Friday agreement and emphasised the importance of achieving functional government in Stormont to serve the people of Northern Ireland.

Katrina Murray

Question

Urged the Prime Minister to move forward at pace with the social media ban for under-16s.

Minister reply

Committed to moving forward with the social media ban for under-16s.

Ellie Chowns

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to stick to his manifesto promise not to drill any more oil and gas and to rule out Rosebank and Jackdaw due to the climate damage they would create.

Minister reply

Acknowledged the need for a transition from oil and gas to a renewable future and committed to a carbon-neutral future.

Marsha de Cordova Lab

Battersea

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to be bold and ambitious in seizing the opportunity to boost economic growth and remove unnecessary trade barriers with Europe.

Minister reply

Confirmed a commitment to work closely with Europe to improve growth and remove trade barriers, stressing the importance of a closer relationship for the benefit of UK farmers and the economy.

David Mundell Con

Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister back to the House and raised concerns about the proposal to switch off terrestrial free-to-view television in 2034, which would affect the elderly, vulnerable, and those in rural areas.

Minister reply

Assured the MP that the concern about the proposal to switch off terrestrial free-to-view television was genuine and would be considered as part of the BBC charter renewal process.

Rupa Huq Lab

Ealing Central and Acton

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister’s words on water and asked when the failing Thames Water company could be taken back into public hands.

Minister reply

Acknowledged the need for a strengthened response to water issues and committed to working with the MP to plot out a path to repair the water infrastructure, bring down bills, and ensure public accountability.

Sammy Wilson DUP

East Antrim

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister and raised the issue of the discredited Parades Commission in Northern Ireland.

Minister reply

Acknowledged the loss of trust in the Parades Commission and committed to addressing the issue, noting that the Northern Ireland Secretary had already taken some action.

Abtisam Mohamed

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister and raised concerns about the financial pressures faced by small and independent businesses.

Minister reply

Committed to further support for small and independent businesses, including lowering the cost of doing business and exploring additional measures to help such businesses.

Julian Lewis Con

New Forest East

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister’s desire to work consensually and across party lines and raised concerns about the local government reorganisation.

Minister reply

Agreed to consider the MP’s concerns regarding local government reorganisation and critiqued the previous government’s record on public housing.

Matt Bishop

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister and asked for a commitment to properly fund police forces.

Minister reply

Committed to always having the back of police officers, ensuring they are properly funded, and honouring the spirit of Harper’s law regarding early release.

Liz Saville-Roberts PC

Dwyfor Meirionnydd

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to work with Plaid Cymru to make good the devolution gap in Wales.

Minister reply

Agreed to have a constructive conversation with the First Minister and support local devolution models that could strengthen the economy and public services.

Fleur Anderson Lab

Putney

Question

Social media and the harm it does to young people is a significant issue for constituents. Will the ban on social media for under 16s remain a full ban without being watered down?

Minister reply

The ban will not be watered down. There is a clear need to take action to reduce the harm caused to children’s mental health due to social media.

Harriett Baldwin Con

West Worcestershire

Question

Will the Prime Minister commit to no further tax rises in the Budget, especially in light of the tax-and-spend Budget in November 2024?

Minister reply

We understand the pressure on businesses and the need to support them. We will take further steps to reduce costs and support growth, without ruling out the need for tax rises if they are necessary to address deeper issues.

Tahir Ali

Question

With youth crime rising, will the Prime Minister commit to long-term ringfenced funding for neighbourhood policing and youth services?

Minister reply

There is a commitment to open up physical space for young people and repair the damage done to youth services in the past. The Prime Minister commits to increasing police officer numbers and funding youth services.

Tim Farron Lib Dem

Westmorland and Lonsdale

Question

Will the Prime Minister make the tackling of bluetongue and the immediate delivery of the vaccine an urgent priority?

Minister reply

The issue of vaccine availability and accessibility is known and will be addressed. The Minister will seek an update and is prepared to meet the hon. Member to discuss the matter.

James Naish

Question

Will the Prime Minister confirm that rural areas will be a priority during his premiership?

Minister reply

There is a commitment to ensuring that rural areas are not left behind and that they benefit from the same economic growth and important services.

Wendy Morton Con

Aldridge-Brownhills

Question

Will the Prime Minister commit to new and meaningful green-belt protections and ensure meaningful consultation with communities before approving development?

Minister reply

A balanced approach to development is supported, recognising the need for infrastructure and community consultation, but not turning back on all development.

Deirdre Costigan

Question

Will the Prime Minister ensure that relevant Ministers meet to address the issue of rough sleeping for those without recourse to public funds?

Minister reply

The commitment to end rough sleeping is ongoing and all Departments will work together to help people on a journey away from the streets.

Alberto Costa Con

South Leicestershire

Question

Will the Prime Minister organise a meeting with stakeholders to discuss the recommendations of the all-party parliamentary group on microplastics report?

Minister reply

The relevant Minister will meet the hon. Member at the earliest convenience to discuss the seriousness of microplastic pollution.

Josh Dean

Question

Will the Prime Minister meet to discuss changing the law to ensure the police and local authorities have the right powers to stop unpermitted development?

Minister reply

There is a commitment to empower local authorities to take action on issues that matter to communities and to enforce laws against unpermitted development.

Munira Wilson Lib Dem

Question

Our schools and colleges cannot be fuelled by hope alone. At the start of the summer, the Prime Minister outlined an overhaul of 14-to-16 education. This comes on the back of far-reaching reforms to special educational needs provision and a new—and as yet un-resourced—requirement to expand enrichment activities in our schools. Could the Prime Minister tell schools, and indeed parents, across the country how he is going to find the people and the cash to deliver all this? Our schools are at breaking point and teachers are leaving in their droves already.

Minister reply

I do recognise the need to fund education in exactly the way the hon. Lady describes. This goes back to the point I made about investing in success rather than paying for failure. We need to be serious about giving all young people a path to success, and therefore reducing the number of young people dependent on benefits in their 20s. This is a shift that we need to make. The Milburn report will hopefully lay out a way to do that, and I look forward to working with the hon. Lady on this important issue.

Alistair Carns Con

Question

I welcome the Prime Minister to his place. In this short time in government, we have done a fantastic job of changing the lives of young people—I always say that the next generation is our greatest legacy. The number of people not in education, employment or training is now below 1 million for the first time. Will the Prime Minister lay out what the strategy will be for people not in education, employment or training, and make it a national mission to give them the opportunity that they deserve?

Minister reply

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to say that this should be a national mission. I talked earlier about a guarantee of a quality work placement between 16 and 18. We could look at doing more to support young people with transport costs, as we did in Greater Manchester. We need more youth apprenticeships—those went into decline, and we need to turn that around—and we need to see many more degree apprenticeships.

Sorcha Eastwood SDLP

Lagan Valley

Question

It is hard to disagree with a lot of what the Prime Minister has set out, but I am going to make sure my conscience is clear. I worry. I worry about our economy. Whenever I hear the Chancellor refer to a continuity Starmer Administration, that is a red flag for me. My Lagan Valley constituents cannot pay their bills. They are struggling with life in a way that they have not known before. I believe that this Prime Minister is serious about wanting to reach those people. Believe you me, when we met in Northern Ireland last week, rest assured that I can guarantee this House is not interested in hearing about the stuff from our past. My constituents want to get on with life in the here and now—right here, right now. The VAT cut for electricity is soon to be engulfed by rising prices. Did the Prime Minister not have it right the first time, when he said that our people need a new economic model?

Minister reply

I thank the hon. Lady for her question. We had a good meeting last week. I do not disagree with what she says, and nor do I disagree with the power with which she says it, because many people watching this will be saying, “It’s too hard now; we need help.” The VAT cut on electricity did lead to a funding offer to the Northern Ireland Government, but I would be the first to say that that is only a start; it is a small step, for the reasons that she gives. We can do more to bring down the cost of transport, and we are going to set out more plans in the Budget to help with the cost of living. She should keep that level of determination to support her constituents. We will make this country feel better, more contented and more united if we are dealing with these issues in a meaningful way for them. I want that to be the hallmark of this Government.

David Smith Lab

Question

I warmly welcome the Prime Minister to his place and thank him for his recent visit to the north-east, where he committed to trying to tackle the totemic infrastructure issue of the north-east, which is the dualling of the A1. I thank him for committing to find alternative ways to fund that. This afternoon, I and 12 other MPs, the mayor and—in the spirit of cross-party working—the local Conservative leader wrote to him to ask what more we can do to work with him and his Government to secure this generational change for infrastructure in the north-east.

Minister reply

I will ask the Transport Secretary to work with colleagues at No. 10 North to see what can be done to bring forward a new way of delivering this much-needed infrastructure. I know how critical it is. I do not think any region of the country—certainly not the south-west and the north-east—has a level of infrastructure that is acceptable. This is something that has been long promised and not delivered. Let us see whether No. 10 North can make the breakthrough.

Gavin Williamson Con

South Staffordshire

Question

I thank the Prime Minister for articulating a desire to reach across the political divide on issues that are common among all our constituents. Across all our constituencies, more and more people are struggling to have a family—to have children. This is a greater and greater issue all across the country. In Staffordshire, for example, if a family need NHS IVF treatment, they are not even entitled to one round of treatment, despite the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence saying that they should be entitled to three. The Prime Minister has a Health Bill coming to this House next week. I have tabled an amendment that would ensure that across England all our constituents can have the basic minimum recommended by NICE, so that they can have a family. Will the Prime Minister encourage his Health Secretary to look at the amendment and see whether there is a way to work across parties and have an impact on something that is so important to so many people?

Minister reply

The right hon. Gentleman will be speaking for many people in his area, and I can see the passion with which he does so. I am not aware of the detail of the amendment at this point in time, but I will certainly ask the Health Secretary to take a close look. I do not like the idea of a postcode lottery in the national health service. There should be an expectation that services available anywhere should be available everywhere, particularly when it comes to an issue as important as this. I give him a commitment to look at the issue, but I will have to come back to him to let him know what we are able to do.

Rachel Blake Lab

Cities of London and Westminster

Question

I welcome the Prime Minister to his place. In July he pledged to end rough sleeping, and that is warmly welcomed by me and my constituents in Cities of London and Westminster, which faces the highest levels of rough sleeping in the country. We have already heard people raise this issue in the Chamber today. When I speak to people who have been sleeping rough, they talk to me about feeling passed from pillar to post; when they have been offered somewhere to stay in a hostel, they simply do not feel safe and secure in it. The Prime Minister has made important statements in the Chamber today. Will he work with me on the way in which local authorities are applying the issue of local connection and on the condition of hostels in this country, which is simply not good enough? We need a real focus on that if we are to meet this ambitious pledge.

Minister reply

I will certainly work with my hon. Friend on this issue. I credit The Passage—I believe it is in her constituency—which is a wonderful charity that supports homeless people, and which I was proud to support on the morning I went into Downing Street. It focused me on what I needed to be focused on before I did that. I agree with everything that my hon. Friend has said. If people are passed from pillar to post, they will not settle enough to be able to begin their journey of recovery— that was all my experience on this issue in Greater Manchester. We had it right in the pandemic, when people were given a settled place to stay. When people are in the same place every night, that is when they begin to recover. I do not believe that it is beyond us to provide now what we provided then. That is why my commitment to Everyone In is a permanent commitment. That should allow organisations such as The Passage, and others doing brilliant work in this area, to start planning for the long term, and to turn around what is, sadly, a tide of misery for so many people. We are wasting money on failure when we could be investing in recovery. That is what we should do.

Tom Gordon SNP

Glasgow North

Question

I welcome the Prime Minister to his place and thank him for his show of cross-party support for my campaign to scrap the time restriction on disability bus passes. I genuinely and sincerely appreciated the fact that he came to the parliamentary event and drop-in that we held last year with Whizz Kidz, the Royal National Institute of Blind People, Bus Users UK, Transport for All, and many other charitable organisations, as well as the likes of Jackie Snape from Disability Action Yorkshire. The Prime Minister showed what cross-party working can do when he delivered that change for Greater Manchester, and is now rolling it out across England. I am grateful to him that, come next year, disability bus passes will not start at 9.30 am, because disabilities do not either. The Prime Minister mentioned in answer to another question that he does not like postcode lotteries. With that in mind, one issue that will still exist relates to companion bus passes, which are granted to disabled people who need someone to accompany them. This is an issue where we will still see a postcode lottery. The right hon. Member for New Forest East (Sir Julian Lewis) has been campaigning on this vigorously. Will the Prime Minister look at this issue, and deliver the same cross-party success to scrap those injustices too?

Minister reply

I pay tribute to the hon. Gentleman; he was kind enough to invite me to a meeting of the all-party group when he was campaigning on that issue, and we did work on it cross-party. I was pleased to be able to make that change as Prime Minister. It is something that will benefit a huge number of disabled people, but he is right that the job is not done because many disabled people will say that they cannot go out and live their life without a companion, and sometimes they cannot afford to pay for that. There is further work to be done, but let’s celebrate—I was going to say, “let’s celebrate the small wins,” but I do not think it is a small win because it means everything to somebody who now can, or will soon be able to, get out whenever they need with that change. I pay credit to the hon. Gentleman; he ran a great campaign. It was something I did in Greater Manchester—I was proud to support him. And that is the thing I am saying today: let’s do more of that.

Leigh Ingham Con

Stafford

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister’s commitment to reindustrialisation, particularly for towns like Stafford. Asks to meet the Prime Minister and other MPs to discuss the issue, specifically focusing on towns. Emphasises the importance of manufacturing in towns.

Minister reply

Agrees with Leigh Ingham and emphasises the importance of reindustrialisation, linking it to lifting high streets. The minister commits to changing British public procurement to support industries and promises to work with the MP to support her constituency and others.

Jeremy Corbyn Lab

Islington North

Question

Congratulates the Prime Minister on his appointment and raises concerns about renters in the private rented sector, particularly the local housing allowance. Asks for rent controls and an immediate rise in the local housing allowance to alleviate the financial burden on renters.

Minister reply

Acknowledges the concerns raised by Jeremy Corbyn and expresses agreement with the need for change in the housing market. The minister commits to a package of measures to turn the housing market around, including addressing the local housing allowance issue.

Sarah Russell Con

Macclesfield

Question

Endorses comments made by Opposition colleagues on farming, drought, and bluetongue, and raises concerns about funding cuts affecting Jodrell Bank in her constituency. Requests a meeting with the Prime Minister to address the issue.

Minister reply

Commits to setting up a meeting to address the concerns regarding Jodrell Bank, emphasising its significance as a heritage and research asset. The minister assures that there will be a way to save Jodrell Bank under his Government.

Vikki Slade Lab

Welling

Question

Highlights the tragic deaths in rivers and seas due to the hottest summer on record and the closure of public and school swimming pools since 2020, leading to fewer children learning to swim. Asks for better funding of leisure centres and swimming pools to ensure every child knows how to swim.

Minister reply

Agrees that swimming should be an entitlement for young people on the curriculum and commits to working with Vikki Slade to deliver this entitlement.

Douglas McAllister SNP

Argyll and Bute

Question

Discusses the industrial history of Dumbarton and Clydebank, and the potential for restoring industry to sites in West Dunbartonshire. Asks for support and a visit to the constituency.

Minister reply

Commits to supporting the restoration of industry to the sites in West Dunbartonshire and promises a visit to the constituency at some point.

Mark Pritchard Con

The Wrekin

Question

Raises concerns about the Government's commitment to spending 3.5% of GDP on defence by 2035, compared to meeting the 3% target by 2030. Asks for clarification on the defence budget.

Minister reply

Reiterates the Government's commitment to meeting all international commitments and sets out the details at the spending review.

Chris Kane Lab

Glasgow North East

Question

Discusses the need for better learning and sharing of experiences among different parts of the UK as part of further devolution. Asks how this can be incorporated into further devolution.

Minister reply

Agrees with Chris Kane and commits to passing the suggestion to No. 10 North to ensure better learning and sharing of experiences among different parts of the UK.

Rebecca Smith Con

Plymouth, Moor View

Question

Discusses the Government's local government reorganisation announcement and its impact on rural Devon, emphasising the need for growth in every postcode. Asks the Prime Minister to revisit the decision.

Minister reply

Commits to looking at local government reorganisation or asking the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to do so, if necessary, to ensure as much consent as possible.

Elsie Blundell

Middleton

Question

The MP welcomes the Prime Minister and raises concerns about the probation service's accountability and monitoring of reoffenders, citing a local tragedy involving the Hoolickin family.

Minister reply

The minister acknowledges the Hoolickin family and the tragic loss of Michael, and emphasises the need for accountability and reform of the probation system due to previous disastrous reorganisation.

Luke Evans

Question

The MP questions the Labour government's NHS policy on mandatory advice and guidance, citing a safety watchdog report linking the system to deaths and requesting a rapid review.

Minister reply

The minister has not yet read the report but commits to reading it and seeking to speak to the hon. Gentleman to see what they can do to address the issue.

Rachel Taylor

Question

The MP asks about the steps the government will take to improve the operating environment for logistics businesses and ease the cost of living pressures for families, and invites the minister to meet with local companies.

Minister reply

The minister thanks the MP and commits to having the meeting, recognising the need to address the high cost of doing business and its impact on the cost of living.

Greg Smith

Question

The MP welcomes the Prime Minister to his constituency and requests an intervention with the Home Secretary regarding an asylum centre site near MOD Bicester, and asks for a response to a letter sent over six weeks ago.

Minister reply

The minister commits to looking at the issues raised and acknowledges the concerns about the pressure large-scale institutions can put on nearby villages, emphasising the need for a balanced and fair approach across the country.

Lee Barron

Question

The MP raises the issue of brain cancer, especially the case of Max Hall, and asks for the Prime Minister to prioritise brain cancer research and get his Ministers to meet with Max’s family and supporting organisations.

Minister reply

The minister commits to having the relevant Minister meet with Max’s family and expresses his sympathies. He emphasises the need to continue working on brain cancer research and ensuring progress in this area.

Jim Allister

Question

The MP asks the Prime Minister to take action to restore sovereignty to Northern Ireland in making laws and invites him to visit Wrightbus in his constituency.

Minister reply

The minister acknowledges the desire to visit Northern Ireland and explains the current arrangements are in place to support the economy, despite agreeing the current situation is about supporting Northern Ireland's economy through access to both markets.

Jonathan Brash

Question

The MP criticises the council tax system as unfair, particularly for towns like Hartlepool, and asks the Prime Minister to commit to replacing the system.

Minister reply

The minister understands the MP's point but is hesitant to commit to wholesale reform from the Dispatch Box, highlighting the need for consensus on this issue.

James Wild

Question

The MP requests the Prime Minister to ensure rapid action to restore a reliable service from King’s Lynn to King’s Cross for constituents who have experienced numerous cancellations.

Minister reply

The minister acknowledges the poor performance of the railways over the summer and commits to convening a rail summit soon to discuss these issues and the need for improvement.

Josh Fenton-Glynn

Question

The MP welcomes the Prime Minister's commitment to social care reform and requests Louise Casey to look at workforce reform to build a national care service.

Minister reply

The minister agrees with the MP's point, emphasising the importance of workforce reform as the foundation for social care reform, including pay, terms and conditions, and prospects for progression.

Lewis Cocking Con

Broxbourne

Question

The Prime Minister has spent all summer trying to be all things to all people. My constituents in Broxbourne want the Government to cut wasteful spending, lower taxes and get a grip on our immigration system, which all require tough decisions to be made by the Prime Minister. Will the Prime Minister choose his left-wing Back Benchers or will he choose the British people?

Minister reply

There was nothing easy about reopening early release. I was listening to the British people when I made changes to exclude rapists, groomers and those guilty of the most serious sexual offences against children from the scheme, and then went even further to exclude manslaughter and other historic child sex offences. Regardless of what the hon. Gentleman might read on social media, I do take difficult decisions. I have done that for 25 years as an elected politician and it is what I will carry on doing.

Laura Kyrke-Smith Con

Aylesbury

Question

I welcome the Prime Minister to his place. He is right to say that we need more power and more ownership back in the hands of our communities. My constituency of Aylesbury is in a relatively wealthy part of the country, but if he were to talk to people at the Vineyard food bank or the Youth Concern drop-in he would not know it, because that overall wealth masks significant inequalities within Buckinghamshire. In fact, people in parts of Aylesbury live on average 11 years less than people in the wealthier parts in the south of the county. What does more control and more ownership look like for my residents, particularly those at the sharp end of the inequalities that I have described?

Minister reply

It is so important that rural communities do not feel shut out from the drive towards devolution. That is why I have made that clear commitment today. I believe that rural communities can benefit from public control of bus services, possibly more than urban areas, because bus services in rural areas are so fragile, expensive and often intermittent. It is only moving to a regulated service that can put in place a decent, reliable bus service for people. That is something that we should support for rural areas, working through No. 10 North, and we should put it into effect for our rural communities as much as for our urban areas.

Andrew George Lib Dem

St Ives

Question

Gorthugher da ha meur ras, Madam Deputy Speaker. On behalf of my Cornish parliamentary colleagues, I welcome the Prime Minister’s recognition of Cornwall’s special case, his visit to Cornwall and his kindness in communicating with me in advance of that meeting. Notwithstanding his experience in his previous job, does he recognise that the metropolitan template is not appropriate in all circumstances when dealing with devolution? There are Celtic regions and nations, such as Cornwall, that require a bespoke settlement. I know that we will be discussing the matter at No. 10 North and I welcome that opportunity. I hope that the Prime Minister will engage in it with a very open mind.

Minister reply

It is a very real offer and I am glad that it finds favour with my hon. Friend—I call him that because we have worked together over a number of years. I heard some groans from the Opposition Benches when I mentioned the overnight visitor levy, but bear in mind that many of us will have been on summer holidays where we have spent a few extra euros to recognise the benefit we get from using services in a local area. If such a power was extended as part of a devolution deal, it could be quite transformational for Cornwall because it could open up a new revenue stream to address infrastructure.

Lloyd Hatton Con

Not specified

Question

May I figuratively raise a glass to the Prime Minister’s much-needed 20% cut to business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues? That really is a win for our high streets, but other hospitality businesses—the hundreds of hotels, cafés, restaurants, fish and chip shops and takeaways right across my constituency—need support with the cost of business rates. These are family-owned businesses, and they are the backbone of our high streets. Ahead of the Budget, will the Prime Minister look closely at widening the support so that other hospitality businesses can benefit?

Minister reply

I assure my hon. Friend that I am giving close consideration to that very suggestion.

Lincoln Jopp Con

Not specified

Question

I wish you, Madam Deputy Speaker, many happy returns. I welcome the Prime Minister to his place, and I welcome his words. In an answer to someone else, he said that he will always demand the highest level of recognition for those who put themselves at risk to keep us safe. I am sure that after six weeks of being Prime Minister he includes in that our amazing armed forces, yet our Northern Ireland veterans face a never-ending process of prosecution, absent any new or compelling evidence. Does he think that our Northern Ireland veterans need more protection? If he does, what will he do about it?

Minister reply

I mentioned the Good Friday agreement earlier. It is important to deal properly and fully with all the issues that are still there and need to be addressed. I do not think it is a case of leaving anything hanging over anybody. The commission proposed in the Bill allows answers to be given for those who are still seeking answers. This is about the right protections for veterans, too. Amendments will be brought forward soon, and we can discuss them as a House then.

Lizzi Collinge Con

Not specified

Question

I am extremely proud to have seen the huge expansion of clean energy over the last two years—a key way in which we are tackling the horrendous climate change that we have seen this summer. In fact, my constituency is the biggest clean energy generator in the whole country, with Heysham 1 and 2 nuclear power stations. Will the Prime Minister confirm that the clean energy revolution will continue under his Government and will continue to be a top priority?

Minister reply

I can absolutely give my hon. Friend that commitment.

Zarah Sultana Lab

Not specified

Question

The Prime Minister has reeled off a list of policies since coming into office. Interestingly, he has failed to mention one major intervention: his Government have continued his predecessor’s policy of arming Israel—an apartheid state that has committed and continues to commit genocide in Gaza. Instead of deflection and the boring nice-guy act, will he finally admit to the House that he has chosen to continue arming Israel and is therefore complicit in the genocide of the Palestinian people?

Minister reply

I do not think the hon. Lady was in the House at the time, but I did signal a change on Israel and Palestine when I came into office as Prime Minister. A further statement will be made to the House very shortly.

Peter Swallow Con

Not specified

Question

Happy birthday, Madam Deputy Speaker. The Prime Minister will know that the commitment he has made on social and council housing will be very welcome in places such as Bracknell, where lots of families are waiting for a home. However, that is undermined when social housing providers sell off their social homes through the disposals process. I know that we are taking steps to address that issue through the Social Housing Bill, but I am concerned that we are not going far enough. It is good to see the Housing Minister in his place. Will the Prime Minister work with him to address this issue and ensure that we can stop disposals?

Minister reply

The Housing Minister has just assured me that we will look at the very issue my hon. Friend raises, so he may want to pursue that conversation with him.

Douglas Lumsden Con

Aberdeen North

Question

The Prime Minister spoke earlier about deindustrialisation. That is exactly what is happening in my constituency, but that deindustrialisation is being caused directly by Labour’s energy policies. The energy profits levy, the ban on new licences and the delay in approving Jackdaw and Rosebank are all having a huge impact on thousands of jobs. Will the Prime Minister take a different approach from his predecessor and protect jobs in the oil and gas sector?

Minister reply

I have been very clear that I will take a pragmatic approach, and the hon. Gentleman will see that in action soon.

Scott Arthur SNP

Edinburgh South

Question

I thank the Prime Minister for his statement. He mentioned the triple-helix model, but what is missing from that model in Scotland is that local authorities are not empowered to play their part. On Friday, Liz McAreavey from the Edinburgh chamber of commerce and the chief executive of the Glasgow chamber of commerce wrote to the Prime Minister asking that he works with the First Minister in Scotland and city region leaders right across the Edinburgh-Glasgow region to forge a devolution deal that enables these cities to meet their full potential. Will he take that offer seriously?

Minister reply

It is certainly on offer from me to have a devolution deal that does precisely what my hon. Friend says and gets business, academia and local government all pulling together. Obviously it is a matter for the Scottish Government—I am not going to go round their back—but I hope that we can agree something at the National Economic Council next month.

Jessica Brown-Fuller Con

Chichester

Question

As the Prime Minister looks ahead to what is predicted to be one of the wettest winters on record, my constituents are expecting more of the same: Southern Water pumping sewage into our precious chalk stream, the River Lavant, which feeds directly into Chichester harbour. What does he believe is an acceptable timescale to get to grips with the water industry and regulate it properly, rather than a review that has delayed everything and is limited in scope?

Minister reply

I understand the last point, and I have hinted at it today. The Cunliffe review was too limited and should have looked at all options for the water industry. I do not want this issue to drag on, but I do not believe we have a water industry that is fit for the climate challenges of the future, for the reasons that the hon. Lady has given. We will come forward with our proposals soon; it will not be too long.

John Slinger Lab

Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister's plans for power redistribution and suggests including a generational power balance with ideas like a youth triple lock and a dedicated Minister for younger and future generations.

Minister reply

Agrees that a generational change in supporting young people is necessary and commits to engaging with the MP on this issue.

Ben Spencer Con

Pendle

Question

Asks the Prime Minister to look into and respond personally to a campaign for a statutory duty to coordinate utility and engineering works to keep towns and villages moving.

Minister reply

Supports the MP's suggestion and expresses his personal experience with the issue as Mayor of Greater Manchester.

Amanda Martin Lab

Portsmouth North

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister's visit to Portsmouth and discusses the importance of supporting armed forces personnel and their families, including proper paternity leave.

Minister reply

Agrees with the MP and commits to working with her on providing better support for armed forces personnel and their families.

Josh Babarinde Lab

West Bromwich East

Question

Concerned about the safety of victims of domestic abuse in light of the early release scheme, asks for further protections.

Minister reply

Announces an enhanced licensing and tagging regime giving victims more control and moving towards restriction zones.

Alex Baker Con

Aldershot

Question

Pushes for the UK to join the Defence, Security and Resilience Bank to collaborate internationally and fund defence, unlocking millions in investment.

Minister reply

Commits to looking at the scheme and has already been in touch with the Canadian Prime Minister.

Lara Bird Con

Monmouth

Question

Expresses frustration at the Prime Minister's approach to devolution and the pro-independence mandate in Scotland.

Minister reply

Defends his approach, stating that he has not disrespected Scotland and has listened to the First Minister's concerns.

Baggy Shanker Lab

Derby North

Question

Concerned about persistently low apprenticeship start rates, asks for work across industry to increase apprenticeship starts.

Minister reply

Commits to making a massive change in this area and suggests the Milburn report as a model for action.

John Cooper SNP

West Dunbartonshire

Question

Critiques the Prime Minister's warm words about rural and coastal communities as lacking detail and action.

Minister reply

Defends the triple-helix model, citing its success in Greater Manchester.

Jim Dickson Lab

Great Grimsby

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister's statement and discusses the need for infrastructure investment, particularly the lower Thames crossing and road repairs.

Minister reply

Agrees and commits to getting the necessary infrastructure back in place.

Martin Wrigley Lab

Wolverhampton South East

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister's message on procurement and suggests removing Palantir from the federated data platform and replacing it with a Greater Manchester model.

Minister reply

Praises the MP for his suggestion and acknowledges previous praise from other MPs for his achievements as Mayor of Greater Manchester.

Linsey Farnsworth Con

Amber Valley

Question

Asks how constituencies affected by deindustrialisation can be prioritised, especially in light of the closure of Denby Pottery.

Minister reply

Commits to backing world-class sectors in communities and helping them transition to future technologies.

Joe Robertson LD

Isle of Wight

Question

Concerned about high travel costs to and from the Isle of Wight, asks for regulatory powers to control prices and ensure fair treatment.

Minister reply

Supports the idea of public control and offers to look seriously at a proposal from the MP to reduce ferry fares.

David Burton-Sampson Con

Southend West

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister and thanked him for his actions to end rough sleeping by Christmas. Acknowledged the work of local charities and organisations and requested an assurance that the policy is only the start of solving the problem.

Minister reply

Emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to rough sleeping, including the 'Housing First' philosophy which focuses on providing stable housing and support for recovery.

Siân Berry Green

Richmond Park

Question

Asked if the Government's climate commitments were at risk due to recent announcements about new fossil fuel drilling.

Minister reply

Stated that climate commitments are not at risk, reiterated commitment to a carbon-neutral future, and disagreed with the ideological approach of the Green party.

Christopher Vince Con

Harlow

Question

Welcomed the Prime Minister's visit to Harlow and asked for condemnation of Russian aggression regarding an incident at Leipzig airport.

Minister reply

Agreed with the condemnation of Russian aggression, affirmed full solidarity with Germany and emphasised continued support for Ukraine.

Iqbal Mohamed Lab

Brent North

Question

Noted the rise in council tax debt and bailiff use, and requested the Prime Minister to look at regulating bailiffs and consider revoking regulation 45.

Minister reply

Agreed with the need for better regulation of bailiffs and encouraged a different approach to debt collection that prioritises mental health and harm reduction.

Chris Curtis Con

Milton Keynes North

Question

Asked for a devolution deal for Milton Keynes and Bedfordshire to support local projects.

Minister reply

Acknowledged the success of devolution in Greater Manchester and Liverpool, expressed willingness to consider a devolution deal for Milton Keynes and Bedfordshire.

Luke Taylor Con

Croydon North

Question

Called for reshaping London's devolution settlement to include London boroughs in decision-making.

Minister reply

Responded positively to the idea of cross-party support for devolution but noted the need for a full consensus across London.

Brian Leishman SNP

Dunfermline and West Fife

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to make reindustrialisation of Grangemouth a top priority.

Minister reply

Expressed interest in sustainable aviation fuel production at Grangemouth and offered to support the development of the proposal.

Carla Lockhart DUP

East Londonderry

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to intervene in the case of the Parades Commission in Northern Ireland.

Minister reply

Announced an independent review of the Parades Commission and expressed commitment to restoring trust in the commission.

Dave Robertson Con

Lichfield

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to meet to discuss High Speed 2 and how to make the project work for all沿线地区。

Minister reply

表示需要解决Handsacre至曼彻斯特的HS2问题，并承诺会与提问者进一步讨论。

Alison Bennett Con

Crawley

Question

Asked the Prime Minister to review per-student funding levels in West Sussex.

Minister reply

承诺让教育大臣调查最低学生资助水平问题，以反映西萨塞克斯的生活成本。

Neil Duncan-Jordan Con

Strathkelvin and Bearsden

Question

Asked if there was fundamental unfairness in dementia care being means-tested, while cancer care is funded through general taxation.

Minister reply

表示需要一个支持癌症和痴呆患者的公平的健康和护理体系，强调该目标应成为政府努力的方向。

Calum Miller Con

Bicester and Woodstock

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister's commitment to restoring local ownership and control, criticises the proposal for building a huge asylum centre in his constituency, expressing that it remains secretive and lacks local scrutiny despite being declared an urgent application.

Minister reply

Commits to familiarising himself with the details of the planning application and reports back from the Dispatch Box when he has done so.

Torcuil Crichton SNP

Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Question

Welcomes the Prime Minister to his place and invites him to his constituency, where he would see community-owned wind farms and requests for priority access to grid connections and local councils' ability to buy shares in renewable schemes.

Minister reply

Agrees with the hon. Member's point and confirms his commitment to supporting local control over basic services and working with him to support his agenda.

Gideon Amos Con

Taunton Deane

Question

Asks the Prime Minister to urgently prioritise the renovation of Musgrove Park hospital’s maternity unit, highlighting the challenging conditions faced by mums and staff.

Minister reply

Commits to looking into the issue and reports back to the hon. Member once he has had a chance to look at the latest status of the issue.

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