Philip Davies
MP for Shipley
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Is the Prime Minister appalled by reports of militant civil servant and trade union political activists seeking ways not to implement Rwanda deportations? Does he agree they should look for alternative employment if unwilling to comply with Government plans?
Context
Reports suggest civil servants and trade union activists oppose the implementation of Rwanda deportations.
Rishi Sunak
Civil servants are expected to support the Government's priority of stopping boats and deliver in accordance with the civil service code. Specific changes were made to ensure compliance, and it is noted that only the Conservative party has a plan to stop the boats.
Assessment
Did not address specifics on actions against non-compliant civil servants
Civil Servants Will Deliver
We Are Committed
Session: PMQs 2024-05-08
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My constituents know only too well the disaster of living under a Labour regime. Just before Christmas, the Labour council in Bradford announced that it was bankrupt, and then spent the first three hours of the subsequent council meeting debating Gaza and Israel rather than the perilous financial situation it was in. Will the Prime Minister support my campaign and that of my hon. Friend the Member for Keighley (Robbie Moore) to get our constituencies out of Bradford Council's control? It is more urgent than ever. Will he also make sure that the Government deliver a swimming pool in Bingley, which is something that was run down and then closed down as part of the mismanagement of Bradford Council?
Context
The Labour-controlled Bradford Council declared bankruptcy just before Christmas, with subsequent meetings focusing on unrelated topics rather than the financial crisis. This situation is affecting constituents' daily lives.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend makes an excellent point: whether it is local councils in his area, in Nottingham or indeed in Birmingham, we see a track record of Labour mismanagement of finances in local areas. We all know, as my hon. Friend points out, that when that happens—when Labour is in power—it is working people who pay the price. That is why we have to stick to our plan.
Assessment
Support for campaign and swimming pool delivery in Bingley
Attacking Labour Mismanagement
Referring To A General Plan Without Specifics
Session: PMQs 2024-01-10
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In February, the PM said borrowing costs were where they should be; in March, he claimed we'd halve inflation by the end of 2023; in May, he stated economic optimism was increasing. Given today's dire economic reality, does it not show a lack of honesty based on previous statements?
Context
The Prime Minister previously stated that borrowing costs are back to normal levels, that inflation would halve by the end of the year, and expressed optimism about the economy. Current economic data contradicts these statements.
Rishi Sunak
The IMF has upgraded its growth outlook for the UK economy this year, contradicting pessimistic views. We have averted a predicted recession due to our actions.
Assessment
While providing some context from external sources, the response did not directly address whether past statements were honest or accurate in light of current economic conditions.
Session: PMQs 2023-06-21
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One of the socialist landmines that the Prime Minister has inherited from the former Member for Uxbridge and South Ruislip— I am sure the Prime Minister remembers him: he is the one who said that we should be more Conservative; if only he had had a majority of 80 and been Prime Minister, he might have been able to do something about it—is the banning of “buy one, get one free” and other special offers on products that the Department of Health and Social Care thought were unhealthy. At the best of times that is an idiotic triumph of the nanny state, but during a cost of living crisis it is utterly bonkers. Will the Prime Minister intervene, pursue a more Conservative agenda—as the former Member for Uxbridge and South Ruislip would want him to—and scrap this ridiculous policy?
Context
The Prime Minister inherited a policy from his predecessor to ban special offers on unhealthy products. The questioner argues this is an idiotic triumph of the nanny state during a cost of living crisis.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend, who has long highlighted this policy. As he knows, after I took office, given the concerns that he and others had raised about the impact on the cost of living of this policy, we postponed its introduction. No final decisions have been made, but I will continue to take what he says very seriously in all our deliberations.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to scrapping the ban on special offers, only that it is under consideration and postponed its introduction.
Session: PMQs 2023-06-14
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Will the Prime Minister insist that the levelling-up fund bid submitted for Bingley, unlocking millions of pounds in private sector investment, will be successful?
Context
Labour-controlled Bradford Council neglects Bingley's needs; the levelling-up fund is crucial to put right these failings.
Rishi Sunak
Unlike Labour council, my hon. Friend is a fantastic champion for his constituents in Bingley. I cannot comment on individual bids but wish him every success and will be following with close interest how it proceeds.
Assessment
Did not directly confirm or guarantee the bid's success, only expressed support and interest.
Session: PMQs 2023-01-11
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I am shocked to be asking a question, knowing Mr Speaker thought I would already have received an offer for a ministerial post. Can you confirm your commitment to levelling up in Yorkshire?
Context
The speaker expected to be offered a ministerial position and is surprised not to have been.
Rishi Sunak (Prime Minister)
I am grateful for my hon. Friend's warm remarks and can confirm he is the only person who texted me to say he does not want a job. I give him my cast-iron commitment to levelling up, particularly in Yorkshire. However, by the end of the year an announcement will be made on successful bids, which he wishes luck with.
Assessment
Did not provide specific details about levelling up commitments
Session: PMQs 2022-10-26
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Before I ask my question, I want to convey the apologies of the shadow Chancellor who is delivering a eulogy at Alistair Darling's funeral today. A dedicated public servant respected across both Houses, he responded with integrity to the global financial crisis. Sadly, nearly 6,000 bank branches have closed since 2015 and only 30 banking hubs are up and running. That leaves countless people financially excluded and affects many small businesses. I ask the Minister once again: will he accelerate the roll-out of banking hubs properly?
Context
Since 2015, nearly 6,000 bank branches have closed and only 30 banking hubs are fully operational. This has led to financial exclusion for many people.
Bim Afolami
I agree with hon. Lady's words about Lord Darling and echo them. On bank branches, it is important that Government does not decide when a branch opens or closes but we legislate for access to cash and should speed up the roll-out of banking hubs.
Session: Banking Services Access 2023-12-19
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What would be the cost threshold for HS2 to no longer represent value for money? Is the Government committed regardless of final bill?
Context
The MP questions the economic feasibility of HS2 as costs rise, challenging the government's continued commitment.
John Glen
The Government remain fully committed to delivering HS2, viewing it as a long-term investment that boosts productivity and provides low-carbon alternatives. The IRP includes £96 billion for improving inter-regional rail connections affecting constituents' interests.
Session: HS2 Cost 2023-09-05
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What discussions has he had with the Secretary of State for Transport on the cost of HS2?
Context
The question arises from ongoing concerns about the HS2 rail project's costs and its perceived value to taxpayers.
John Glen
The Chancellor launched an efficiency and savings review to focus on Government priorities and identify ways to work more efficiently, helping manage budgetary pressures from higher inflation. The Secretary of State for Transport and I discussed the costs of HS2 during this review, which informed the decision to rephase certain parts of the project.
Session: HS2 Cost 2023-09-05
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What is the full financial cost to the United Kingdom of reaching net zero? If the UK reaches net zero, what difference will it make to global temperatures?
Context
The financial cost of reaching net zero is a concern for the UK.
Graham Stuart
We estimate that the net cost excluding air quality and emissions-saving benefits will be equivalent to about 1% to 2% of GDP in 2050. As my hon. Friend knows, emissions are global, and we all need to play our part. The UK has a part to play in tandem with others, and that is why I will be working with other Ministers at the conference of the parties in Dubai.
Session: Topical Questions 2023-07-04
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Does the Secretary of State believe it is fair to force people by criminal law to buy Sky TV packages if they do not want them? If not, why mandate BBC licence fees for those who may prefer alternatives?
Context
There is a debate on the future funding of public service broadcasting, with questions arising over whether individuals should be required to purchase certain services.
Lucy Frazer
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. He will know that the Department is considering all possible future funding options to ensure the BBC's long-term sustainability, because the digital world is indeed changing.
Session: Topical Questions 2023-06-15
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Some people want to buy halal and kosher meat while others do not. Will the Government ensure that such meat must be properly labelled at the point of sale, so consumers can make informed decisions?
Context
There is a desire for better labelling of halal and kosher meat to inform consumer choices.
Mark Spencer
The fundamental principle of food labelling rules is that information provided to consumers must not mislead. Based on evidence from a 2021 call for evidence on food labelling for animal welfare, we are still considering how to move forward.
Session: Topical Questions 2023-03-30
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Will this be an annual fund or a one-off? If not every area in my constituency has been successful this time, will they have another opportunity in future rounds?
Context
The MP seeks clarification on whether the £100 million funding is a one-off or annual fund, and if there are opportunities for unsuccessful bids in future rounds.
Rebecca Pow
Yes, £20 million is going out in this first tranche. Letters will be sent shortly with further details next week. The money has been ringfenced for this purpose.
Session: Flooding Funding 2023-03-30
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When does the government plan to announce details of funding for frequently flooded areas? My constituency has repeatedly faced this issue and I await further information on this matter.
Context
The MP lobbied hard for a funding programme to support communities that experience repeated flooding but have been unable to secure necessary funds.
Rebecca Pow
In July 2022, the Government announced their £100 million frequently flooded fund. My hon. Friend's scheme in Shipley has been approved and full details will be with him next week.
Session: Flooding Funding 2023-03-30
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Would the Minister like to be more specific about when we might expect the deadline for bids and will she confirm that her Department will work closely with Bradford Council?
Context
The previous round of levelling-up fund bids saw some areas receive substantial investment.
Dehenna Davison
The third round of the levelling-up fund will be announced in due course, but I will work with Bradford Council to make sure the bid for Bingley is as strong as possible.
Session: Levelling-up Fund Bids 2023-03-27
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What is the deadline for the next round of levelling-up fund bids?
Context
The question follows the Chancellor's confirmation that the next round of levelling-up fund bids would go ahead in his Budget statement.
Dehenna Davison
The third round of the levelling-up fund will be announced in due course, but I will work closely with Bradford Council to ensure that the bid for Bingley town centre is as strong as possible.
Session: Levelling-up Fund Bids 2023-03-27
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May I be the first to defend the Chancellor, and indeed the shadow Chancellor, against any accusation of socialism? Can the Chancellor explain why the Cameronbridge distillery in my constituency, which is a major employer in an area of high unemployment, faces an increase of about £350 million in its excise tax bill this year? That is more than the additional amount that the Chancellor claims to be giving to the whole of Scotland. Will he explain why my constituents, and the companies that employ my constituents, are having to contribute additional taxes to pay for his economic failure?
Context
The questioner defends the Chancellor against accusations of socialism while asking about a significant increase in excise tax for a distillery in his constituency.
Jeremy Hunt
Let me gently say to the hon. Member that the freeze in alcohol duty which we introduced in the autumn of 2021, and which will continue until August this year, has constituted a £2.7 billion tax cut over four years. We do everything we can to help the vital Scottish whisky industry.
Session: Taxation 2023-03-21
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If he will reduce the overall level of taxation. While I appreciate that this is largely as a result of the idiotic decision to lock down the country and the economy for the best part of two years, the Chancellor nevertheless finds himself presiding over a high-tax, high-spend, low-growth, quasi-socialist economy. When can those of us who remain Conservatives expect to see some tax cuts and a reduction in the burden of taxation?
Context
No specific context provided, but the question relates to broader concerns about taxation levels.
Jeremy Hunt
Like all Conservatives, I believe in reducing the burden of taxation wherever possible, while always demonstrating a responsible approach to public finances. I thank my hon. Friend for the inimitable way in which he asked his question. I hope that he was reassured to some extent by the £9 billion cut in the planned level of corporation tax in the Budget, and, if we make the arrangement for capital allowances permanent, as I should like to, that will give us the best investment incentives anywhere in the OECD.
Session: Taxation 2023-03-21
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Some people particularly want to buy halal and kosher meat, and some people particularly want to avoid doing so. Is it not time to properly label all these products appropriately, so that consumers, whether they want to buy this or do not want to buy it, can make an informed decision?
Context
The MP raised the issue of clear labelling for consumers who want or do not want to buy halal or kosher meat.
Mark Spencer
The Government have committed to consult on mandatory labelling reforms this year. We want to make it easier for consumers to purchase products aligned with their values. As part of the consultation, we will seek views on labelling products that conform with religious requirements, such as those that are halal and kosher.
Session: Topical Questions 2023-01-12
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Why does funding for flood defence not reflect the severity of frequent flooding impacting fifty properties ten times? When will Shipley receive funds through the newly introduced frequently flooded allowance?
Context
Shipley has applied for the frequently flooded fund, which was introduced to benefit constituencies like Shipley that experience regular flooding but lack adequate defences.
Rebecca Pow
We recognise the hardship for those few properties that are frequently flooded, which is devastating. The new frequently flooded fund has been introduced to address this issue. Shipley has applied and details of awards will be announced at month's end.
Session: Flood Defences Shipley 2023-01-12
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What recent assessment has been made regarding the adequacy of flood defences in the Shipley constituency, given that 48 properties are at high risk of flooding?
Context
48 properties in Shipley are at high risk of flooding from the River Aire. No viable options for upstream storage or walls have been identified to protect these properties.
Rebecca Pow
Bradford Council and the Environment Agency have identified 48 properties in Shipley at high risk from River Aire flooding. No viable options exist for upstream storage or walls to protect these homes. Property flood resilience surveys are ongoing, and measures will be considered based on feasibility and funding.
Session: Flood Defences Shipley 2023-01-12
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Further to the question from my right hon. Friend the Member for Tatton, may I urge the Chancellor to think again about a more substantial temporary cut in fuel duty? Although the current one was welcome, it has not really been noticed by many people.
Context
The fuel duty cut introduced has been welcomed but has not significantly impacted people's experience at the pumps due to rising wholesale prices.
Rishi Sunak
A £5 billion reduction in fuel duty along with its freezing is significant but not being felt at the pumps due to rising wholesale prices. The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is in dialogue with the Competition and Markets Authority to ensure that the fuel duty cut is passed on.
Session: Cost of Living 2022-06-28
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Many people are grateful to the Chancellor for all the support he has given to help people with their energy bills, but many businesses are also struggling with very high energy bills. Will he consider giving further support to businesses to help them through that, preferably through cutting their taxes?
Context
Many small businesses are struggling due to high energy costs.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is a champion of all the small businesses in his constituency, and rightly so. They have endured the pandemic and are bouncing back strongly on the other side, and we want to support that. On tax cuts, I hope he can reassure his small businesses that this year they are benefiting from two specific tax cuts—a cut of about £5,000 in business rates for a typical pub; and with the increase in the employment allowance, a cut of £1,000 on national insurance contributions—and we will of course support them in the years to come.
Session: Topical Questions 2022-06-28
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In common with countries around the world, the UK is experiencing global inflationary forces. Will the Chancellor make a statement on his departmental responsibilities to address this issue?
Context
The UK is experiencing global inflation. The government has provided £37 billion in support.
Rishi Sunak
In common with countries around the world, the UK is experiencing global inflationary forces. We are taking action to support the country through that, with £37 billion of support targeted at the most vulnerable, but also focused on the long term in combating inflation and reducing prices through supply-side reforms, responsible fiscal policy, and a strong and forceful independent monetary policy.
Session: Topical Questions 2022-06-28
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Can he tell us what proportion of Passport Office staff are back in the office, and, while he is at it, can he help me with the case of Wendy, who is still waiting for a passport?
Context
There are still some issues with the passport backlog.
Kevin Foster
As we have said a couple of times before at the Dispatch Box, people involved in the passport operation have been back in the office for some time. However, we are happy to expedite cases like that of my hon. Friend's constituent, when there are reasons for travel that are both compelling and compassionate.
Session: Passport Application Processing Times 2022-06-20
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I have been urging Bradford Council to prepare a levelling-up fund bid for the town of Bingley in my constituency which I very much hope will be looked on favourably by the Government. When will the deadline for the next round of bids for the levelling-up fund be, and what will the criteria be?
Context
The questioner urges Bradford Council to prepare a bid for the town of Bingley in his constituency.
Neil O'Brien
The next round of bidding for levelling-up funding will open in spring and we will set out the conditions for funding in due course.
Session: Support for Town Centres and High Streets 2022-01-24
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Asks if time has come to turn around and escort boats back into French waters on humanitarian grounds and to protect UK borders from illegal immigration.
Context
MP questions quick action to stop illegal boat crossings in the Channel, suggests turning back and escorting boats into French waters.
Priti Patel
Home Secretary confirms this is Government's policy. Border Force has been commissioned with MOD support for pushing back boats, routes tested, technology deployed, and plan well-tested.
Session: Small Boat Channel Crossings 2022-01-17
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Digital Markets Bill - After Clause 308 - Secondary ticketing facilities
21 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment proposed by the Lords, which seeks to introduce additional regulatory requirements on resale sites, should be reconsidered as it may not be necessary or enforceable. Instead of adding mo...
Substandard Housing
13 May 2024
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
George Galloway dedicated the debate to Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who died due to damp and mould in his home. He highlighted Rochdale's housing issues, noting that Rochdale Boroughwide Housing i...
Risk-based Exclusion
13 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focuses on a motion concerning risk-based exclusion policies in the House of Commons, specifically regarding amendments to Standing Orders and procedures for handling charges against Member...
Business of the House (13 May)
08 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Christopher Chope criticised the arrangement of the Order Paper, highlighting that despite two hours and three-quarters allocated for this motion's debate, a more important motion on Monday about excl...
Football Spectators (Unauthorised Entry) Bill - Second Reading of the whole bill
23 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill aims to introduce a new criminal offence for unauthorised or attempted entry into football matches, addressing the risks highlighted by the Baroness Casey Review following the chaotic events ...
Hereditary Peerages (Female Succession) Bill - Second Reading of the entire bill
23 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves for the Second Reading of a bill that seeks to end the constitutional sexism in the UK by ensuring succession to hereditary peerages does not depend on sex. The Bill aims to phase in changes gra...
Heart and Circulatory Diseases: Premature Deaths
22 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP opened the debate by sharing his personal experience of having a heart attack at age 47, emphasising the importance of awareness and early identification. He highlighted statistics showing that...
Ceasefire in Gaza
21 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Terminal Illness (Support for Terminally Ill Recipients of Occupational Pensions) Bill - Clause 1
02 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to extend the definition of 'terminally ill' from six months to twelve months for recipients of occupational pensions whose pension schemes have become insolvent. This change will ...
The Joint Enterprise (Significant Contribution) Bill - Second Reading of the entire Bill
02 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Kim Johnson moved that the Joint Enterprise (Significant Contribution) Bill be read a Second time. She emphasised that the bill seeks to correct an injustice in which individuals are sentenced for joi...
6
PMQs Asked
21
Ministerial Questions Asked
22
House of Commons Debates Involved
0
Westminster Hall Debates Led
3
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1366 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+70% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.5
Ministerial Questions
+24% above average
This MP:
21
Average:
16.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.2
Commons Chamber Debates
+491% above average
This MP:
22
Average:
3.7
Statements / Bills Proposed
-66% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
8.8
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Philip Davies's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.