Sarah Dyke
MP for Glastonbury and Somerton
Lib Dem
20 Jul 2023 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
This morning, I met farmers on Whitehall and on Saturday I met farmers supplying milk to family-run Wyke Farms, which has been making traditional cheddar cheese near Bruton for 160 years. They all told me that the family farm tax, as it stands, will devastate their businesses. If the Prime Minister really wants growth, will he listen to farmers, industry, the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee and even his own MPs, and pause and rethink this damaging and regressive tax?
Context
Farmers in Glastonbury and Somerton have expressed concerns over the family farm tax, which they believe will harm their businesses.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
We have invested a record £11.8 billion in sustainable farming this Parliament, and we set out a 25-year farming road map focused on increasing year-on-year productivity and profitability in farms, and that is vitally important.
Session: PMQs 2025-11-26
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Many in Glastonbury and Somerton are forced to travel hundreds of miles to see an NHS dentist or suffer in agony, fall into debt to pay for private treatment or turn to DIY dentistry, like Jennifer, who extracted two of her teeth over the weekend. They simply cannot wait for the consultation on the broken NHS contract; they deserve immediate action. Will the Prime Minister outline what measures he is taking to end the dental desert in Somerset for good?
Context
Residents in Glastonbury and Somerton are suffering from a lack of access to NHS dentists. Some have resorted to private treatment or even DIY dentistry.
The Prime Minister
I thank the hon. Member for raising that. Added to the list of shocking things the last Government left us is the shocking state of NHS dentistry—broken, like everything else under the last Government. We are rolling out extra urgent care appointments. In Somerset, the integrated care board is expected to deliver over 13,000 extra dental appointments this year; I will give her more details in due course. We are also reforming the dental contract, which will shift focus on to retaining NHS dentists.
Session: PMQs 2025-10-22
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The lawlessness is deterring tourists, and business owners have told me trade is suffering. As visitors start to arrive ahead of the Glastonbury festival, could the Prime Minister reassure my constituents that he will give the police the additional resource that they need to tackle this threatening and menacing behaviour, and to reduce the devastating crime wave sweeping through the town?
Context
The MP highlighted a notable increase in antisocial behaviour affecting the town of Glastonbury, mentioning that St John’s church was forced to close its doors after gravestones were reportedly used as counters for drug transactions. Constituents Peter and Melanie reported being targeted with demands for money when collecting their pensions, leaving them feeling scared and overwhelmed.
The Prime Minister
The hon. Member is absolutely right to raise this matter. Antisocial behaviour massively impacts on individuals and their communities, and that is why we are introducing 13,000 new neighbourhood police and giving them better powers—respect orders—so they can actually deal with what they see on the streets effectively.
Session: PMQs 2025-06-04
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Last week, 50 mm of intense rain fell across large parts of Somerset and exacerbated the already saturated ground, with a major incident declared on Tuesday. With more unsettled weather in the forecast and high spring tides imminent, residents have told me that they are worried they could be facing a repeat of the devastating 2013-14 floods. With the increasingly unpredictable, intense and changing patterns of rainfall, communities must be given the resources they need to prepare extreme weather resilience plans. I thank the Minister for her commitment to meet me in Somerset later this year, but will she bring forward that planned visit to Glastonbury and Somerton to witness the devastating impact that flooding is having on my communities while the floodwater levels remain up?
Context
50 mm of intense rain fell across parts of Somerset, exacerbating saturated ground conditions. With more unsettled weather forecasted and high spring tides imminent, communities fear a repeat of the 2013-14 floods. Residents need resources to prepare extreme weather resilience plans.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Hardy)
The hon. Lady raises a really important point—I have been following the situation really closely, and it is devastating. She is quite right to point out the trauma and upset caused by flooding. We invested £80 million in Somerset between April 2024 and March 2025 on flood and coastal risk management, and we will allocate another £75 million to Somerset between April 2025 and March 2026. I will check whether my diary aligns so that I can make an earlier visit.
Session: Flood Preparedness 2026-02-05
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The need for increased defence spending is clear, but the growing uncertainty over the future of the new medium helicopter contract has left Leonardo in the lurch, over a year after the company was left as the only tender. It is putting our national defence readiness, and the jobs of hundreds of my constituents in Glastonbury and Somerton, at risk. As the delay now extends well beyond reason, can the Minister provide an update on the defence investment plan?
Context
The delay in the new medium helicopter contract is putting Leonardo's national defence readiness, as well as jobs for hundreds of constituents in Glastonbury and Somerton, at risk.
The Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry (Luke Pollard)
As the Secretary of State set out earlier, we are working flat out to deliver the defence investment plan. We are continuing to speak to our colleagues in Leonardo, not just about NMH but about how we are investing in Leonardo’s services nationwide.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-02-02
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In my constituency alone, there are more than 8,000 WASPI women, including Miriam from Martock who has lost £50,000 because of the maladministration of state pension age changes. Because she was unable to work, she had to sell her home and live on released capital; now at age 70, she is back in the workforce. Given this situation, will the Minister commit to properly compensating 1950s-born women, and will the Government consult with the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman before finalising their response?
Context
There are more than 8,000 WASPI women in Glastonbury and Somerton who have been negatively impacted by the state pension age changes. Many of these women, such as Miriam from Martock, face significant financial losses due to these changes.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Torsten Bell)
Many Members have constituents who face challenges in the years running up to the state pension age due to issues unrelated to communication, but rather to the increase and acceleration of the state pension age put in place by a previous Liberal Democrat Government. The focus is on understanding the specific issue related to communication around state pension changes. We will update the House as soon as a conclusion is reached within three months of the decision in December.
Session: State Pension Age Changes Compensation 2026-01-26
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Pressures on schools to convert to academy trusts are considerable and widespread, but acadising at all costs is not always in everybody’s interests. Some parents in Glastonbury and Somerton have told me that they are concerned that where decisions are taken across a number of schools, performance could diminish as a result. What steps is the Minister taking to monitor trusts and hold them accountable, especially where a school that has joined with an academy has failed to improve?
Context
Parents in Glastonbury and Somerton have expressed concerns that converting schools to academy trusts may not always improve performance. Some parents are worried about the impact on school performance when multiple schools join a trust.
The Minister for School Standards (Georgia Gould)
I have seen real benefits from collaboration in saving money and sharing best practice to support children in their learning. However, as I have just set out, it is crucial that there is strong accountability, and we are legislating to bring in inspections for multi-academy trusts to ensure that there is strong governance and accountability.
Session: Academy Trusts Governance 2026-01-19
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I recently met Abbas and Templecombe parish councillors to discuss their exciting plans to add a 400-metre running track, a multi-use games area and an outdoor adult gym to the local recreation ground. Given that physical inactivity costs the UK over £7 billion a year, such improvements are welcome, particularly in rural areas. However, despite securing some of the funding, the parish council is struggling to find the additional funds it needs to get the project off the ground. What steps is the Minister taking to help rural, parish and town councils improve their sports and leisure facilities?
Context
A parish council in Glastonbury and Somerton is planning to add a running track, multi-use games area, and outdoor gym to their recreation ground. Despite securing some funding, they are struggling to find additional funds needed for the project.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
The hon. Lady is a strong advocate for her constituency, and she makes a very important argument. As I have outlined, the Government are investing £400 million in grassroots facilities. We are also working with the sports sector and local leaders to understand the demands of each community, and I would be happy to discuss that further with her.
Session: Access to Sports Facilities 2026-01-15
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Recent media reports highlight the full extent of abuse that women have suffered in the armed forces, highlighting why the recommendations from the Atherton report must be urgently implemented in full. What steps is the Minister taking to remove the barriers to create an environment within our armed forces where women feel protected, valued and given the opportunity to excel and flourish?
Context
Recent media reports highlight the abuse that women have suffered in the armed forces, highlighting why recommendations from the Atherton report must be urgently implemented. The Member asks what steps are being taken to improve conditions.
The Minister for Veterans and People (Louise Sandher-Jones)
I thank the hon. Member for raising an incredibly important point. As she will know, I am personally dedicated to improving the experiences of women in our armed forces. She rightly highlights the Atherton report. We are taking forward several things to deliver that programme, such as improving how we take care of victims and introducing more accountability. I also highlight our support for the cross-governmental work on violence against women and girls.
Session: Women Veterans 2025-12-15
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Earlier this week I met children from Ilchester community primary school. Maeve, who is in year 6, told me her No. 1 concern is the pressure on local businesses. Glastonbury and Somerton has many wonderful hotels and restaurants, like the Hollies in Bower Hinton, but many will face an average rates increase of 76% from April without transitional support. What action is the Minister taking to prevent a crisis in the hospitality sector and ensure that businesses like the Hollies can thrive?
Context
The MP noted concerns from constituents, particularly a student named Maeve who highlighted the pressure on local businesses. The constituency has many hotels and restaurants facing an average rates increase of 76% without transitional support.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Kate Dearden)
We absolutely recognise the significant contribution made by hospitality businesses to economic growth and social life in the UK, including the hon. Member’s constituency. With the temporary pandemic business rates relief coming to an end and the first independent revaluation since the pandemic taking effect next April, we are putting in place a £4 billion support package, so that most properties seeing increases will see them capped at 15% or less next year, or £800 for the smallest. We inherited support schemes that the previous Government had put in place with no funding for them to continue.
Session: Hospitality Sector Glastonbury and Somerton 2025-12-11
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As was identified in the national food strategy, there is a shortage of skills in food and farming. The Liberal Democrats are proposing a “Farm First” scheme to give young people training and the incentive they need to choose a career in farming. Will the Minister outline the steps the Government are taking to create pathways to increase the number of post-16 learners who undertake training in food and farming?
Context
The MP highlighted the national food strategy's identification of a skills shortage in food and farming, proposing a “Farm First” scheme for training.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
The hon. Lady will recognise the significant investment that this Government have put into agriculture more broadly since coming into office. I am not aware of the “Farm First” scheme, but if she would like to write to me about it, I would be happy to meet to discuss it further.
Session: Post-16 Skills Education 2025-12-08
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I am concerned about the potential implications for my policies of US foreign policy on Ukraine. Since 2022, 1,600 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Somerset away from Putin’s war machine, many making Glastonbury and Somerton their home. The US-led peace negotiations, dictated by Russia, risk excluding US security guarantees, leaving many Ukrainians in fear of returning to Ukraine. What discussions has the Secretary of State had with Cabinet colleagues on implementing a pathway to settled status, so that Ukrainians may have a permanent future in the UK?
Context
Since the start of the war in 2022, around 1,600 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Somerset. The situation involves security guarantees provided by the US.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
As the hon. Lady will know, I and many other people have been involved in welcoming people as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme. We continue to do so and to support the role that they play in our country, and that will continue. She refers to security guarantees, and I can tell her that the Ministry of Defence is involved in direct discussions on the detail of how security guarantees would need to work. That is essential as part of a just and lasting peace.
Session: Ukraine 2025-12-02
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Rural areas have deep pockets of deprivation, and nearly 18% of children in Glastonbury and Somerton live in poverty. How will the Minister ensure that the child poverty strategy sufficiently focuses on child poverty in rural areas?
Context
Rural areas face unique challenges when it comes to child poverty, with nearly 18% of children living in poverty in Glastonbury and Somerton. The MP wants to ensure the strategy addresses these issues.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
I recognise the particular challenges faced by many rural communities, and I am grateful to the hon. Lady for raising them. We have been considering such matters through the development of the strategy. The taskforce has been working across Government, including with colleagues in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, to understand some of the challenges. We are expanding childcare and new free breakfast clubs, and the lifting of the two-child limit will make a big difference to children and their life chances in every corner of our country.
Session: Child Poverty Strategy 2025-12-01
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Sarah Dyke highlighted the high number of households in temporary accommodation in Somerset and noted that this situation requires a long-term solution. She asked what measures are being taken by the Minister to increase the availability of affordable homes to address this issue.
Context
Somerset faces a significant housing crisis with nearly 300 households in temporary accommodation, including over 120 families with children. The local council is spending substantial funds annually on additional temporary accommodation to meet demand.
The Minister for Local Government and Homelessness (Alison McGovern)
Alison McGovern informed Sarah Dyke that the forthcoming homelessness strategy would address these concerns. She emphasized that while funding can be provided to support temporary measures, it is crucial to focus on building homes and ensuring families have sufficient income to cover rental costs.
Session: Families in Temporary Accommodation 2025-11-24
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What steps are you taking to support off-grid homeowners like Gareth to transition to sustainable heating alternatives? What assessment has been made of using renewable liquid heating fuels?
Context
A constituent, Gareth from Pitney, lives in an off-grid home with no affordable heating options other than oil. Transitioning to sustainable heating alternatives would cost him about £20,000.
Martin McCluskey
The warm homes plan, launching before the end of the year, will address issues in rural homes. A consultation on alternative heating fuels was also launched today, inviting responses from constituents and others interested.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-11-18
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A Liberal Democrat freedom of information request revealed that the Treasury recently had plans to review the family farm tax. Farmers across the country are fed up with bickering and infighting from a Government who just do not understand them, but there is still time to act and end months of confusion and misery. Will the Chancellor and her Ministers meet farmers from Glastonbury and Somerton, and me, to provide some clarity and reveal the full extent of the Government’s discussions on revoking this damaging family farm tax?
Context
Liberal Democrats have requested a review of the family farm tax, revealing plans by the Treasury to discuss the issue. Farmers are concerned about the impact of changes to agricultural property relief and business property relief.
Dan Tomlinson
Just a few weeks ago, I met farmers to discuss this and other important issues. The Government believe that even though this tax is a difficult change—I do not shy away from that fact—it is the right change to make, because it is a method of raising revenue in a fair way that helps contribute to restoring the public finances.
Session: Agricultural and Business Property Relief Impact on Farmers 2025-11-04
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What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that adults with autism and other special educational needs can find fulfilling and secure employment?
Context
The questioner mentions that only 30% of people with autism are in work, compared to nearly 55% of disabled people. She provides an example of Charlie, a young adult with autism who has struggled to find employment.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
Transitional protection is available for people making the transition across to universal credit, and support is provided through the enhanced support journey for those whose transition may be particularly difficult. The Minister suggests sending details of specific cases if worried about particular individuals.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-10-27
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Whether the government plans to implement the outstanding recommendations of the Defence Committee's second report of Session 2021-22 on Women in the Armed Forces. The Atherton report surveyed over 4,000 female service personnel and veterans, with 62% reporting being victims of bullying, discrimination, harassment or sexual assault during their service.
Context
The Defence Committee of Session 2021-22 published a report titled “Protecting those who protect us: Women in the Armed Forces from Recruitment to Civilian Life”, which made several recommendations aimed at improving conditions for women serving and veterans. The Atherton report, published in 2021, surveyed over 4,000 female service personnel and veterans, revealing that 62% had experienced bullying, discrimination, harassment or sexual assault during their service.
The Minister for Veterans and People (Al Carns)
Defence has accepted 33 recommendations from the “Women in the Armed Forces” report. Two outstanding elements remain: results of an armed forces sexual harassment survey and a veterans strategy with a specific female veterans section, both due to be released in autumn. We also have a tri-service complaints system and the violence against women and girls taskforce, ensuring women can serve safely and with pride.
Session: Women in the Armed Forces 2025-09-08
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Glastonbury town centre has seen increasing rates of antisocial behaviour, shoplifting and crime. A local charity shop manager told me that residents and customers are too scared to walk down the high street, which obviously has a negative impact on the local economy. Will the Minister meet me to discuss how effective community policing can be the solution to the persistent issues that Glastonbury is facing?
Context
The MP reported increasing rates of antisocial behaviour, shoplifting, and crime in Glastonbury town centre. A local charity shop manager expressed concerns about the impact on residents and customers.
The Minister for Policing and Crime Prevention (Dame Diana Johnson)
I am, of course, very happy to meet the hon. Lady. That is why neighbourhood policing is important, and why the Government made a commitment to put 13,000 additional police personnel back into our town centres and communities over the course off this Parliament.
Session: Antisocial Behaviour 2025-07-07
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Jackie from Street suffers with Crohn’s disease, fibromyalgia and mental health issues. She worked for most of her life until ill health made it impossible. Under the reforms, she will lose her entitlement to personal independence payment and employment and support allowance, plunging her into poverty. Can the Chancellor give Jackie the reassurance she needs that she will not be left in poverty?
Context
MP raised a case of Jackie, suffering from multiple health conditions, who is concerned about losing entitlement to personal independence payment and employment support allowance.
Rachel Reeves
Yes, I can absolutely give my assurance to Jackie, and to other people who are currently claiming PIP, that they will see absolutely no change in their entitlement. That is what my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions announced to the Chamber yesterday: everybody who is currently on those benefits will see no change whatever. The Timms review, which will be co-produced with disabled people and those who represent them, will build a new system for the future.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-07-01
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Somerset Youth Justice Service recently got a “requires improvement” rating from His Majesty’s inspectorate of probation. The situation is clearly damaging young offenders’ chances of rehabilitation, so what steps is the Department taking to improve SYJS and support young offenders in Somerset?
Context
The Somerset Youth Justice Service recently received a 'requires improvement' rating from HM Inspectorate of Probation, which could be damaging to young offenders’ rehabilitation prospects.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Sir Nicholas Dakin)
The hon. Lady draws attention to an important issue. Inspections are significant in identifying where additional support and effort are needed. The Department will do everything it can to give proper support to Somerset Youth Justice Service.
Session: Reoffending Young Offenders 2025-06-03
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Off-road bikes are often used illegally across private farmland, causing damage to crops, spooking animals and leaving farmers feeling scared and vulnerable. While the Crime and Policing Bill includes a provision to make it easier for police to seize vehicles associated with antisocial behaviour, Avon and Somerset police has little or no resource to police rural crimes properly. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to stop the illegal use of off-road bikes on farmland?
Context
Sarah Dyke mentions that off-road bikes are often used illegally across private farmland, causing damage to crops, scaring animals, and leaving farmers feeling scared and vulnerable. She asks about the steps being taken in the Crime and Policing Bill.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Yvette Cooper)
As well as strengthening the law, we are working with the National Police Chiefs’ Council on a stronger rural crime strategy. I can tell the hon. Lady that Avon and Somerset police will be getting 70 additional neighbourhood police officers across the area this year as a result of the neighbourhood policing guarantee.
Session: Vehicle Nuisance 2025-06-02
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Somerset is home to some iconic film locations such as Glastonbury Tor, which featured in “The Kid Who Would Be King”; Montacute House, which featured in “Wolf Hall” and “Sense and Sensibility”; and Wells, where “Hot Fuzz” was filmed. What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that the film industry in the UK thrives and continues to use our iconic locations?
Context
UK film industry thrives due to iconic locations such as Glastonbury Tor, Montacute House, Wells.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism (Chris Bryant)
The hon. Lady is right: one of the things that brings a lot of people to the UK as tourists—we want to reach 50 million international visitors by 2030—is seeing places where things were filmed. I went to Bath recently and saw many different places where there has been filming for “Bridgerton” and lots of different movies. It is an important part of our business and sometimes we need to make sure that local authorities take up such opportunities.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-05-22
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What support is the Minister providing to SMEs such as Needles and Pins to ensure that they can compete for defence procurement contracts?
Context
Somerset is home to growing defence sector SMEs like Needles and Pins Aerospace, which supplies Leonardo helicopters. The question addresses specific support these companies need to compete for defence procurement contracts.
John Healey (The Secretary of State for Defence)
Next month we will set a target for direct defence investment in SMEs. Every 1% more of defence spending we put into SMEs is worth £250 million more for those small firms.
Session: Defence Procurement SMEs 2025-05-19
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Earl, a social housing tenant from Glastonbury, is disabled and has faced multiple barriers that have prevented him from self-funding improvements to the sustainability and energy efficiency of his home, in order to help him reduce his energy poverty and improve his health. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to ensure that social housing tenants receive energy upgrades in their homes, and in particular those living in older housing stock, where upgrades might be more complex to achieve?
Context
A disabled tenant named Earl in Glastonbury has faced barriers to improving the energy efficiency of his home due to financial constraints. The question highlights the challenges facing social housing tenants, particularly those living in older properties where upgrades may be more complex.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
It sounds as though the hon. Lady is raising an individual case, and if she wants to draw it to our attention, she can do so. On the more general point, I believe that her local authority has received £6 million as part of the warm homes local grant, so it would be worth talking to it about this. Again—I am sure that I speak for the Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, my hon. Friend the Member for Peckham (Miatta Fahnbulleh), on this—where there are specific issues about how particular schemes are working, please do draw them to our attention and we will seek to act on them.
Session: Household Energy Efficiency 2025-04-29
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My constituent Hazel, from Street, was infected with hepatitis C in the 1970s after receiving blood products following the birth of her child. She suffered years of ill health and related problems, and is still waiting for the infected blood compensation scheme. Her case is truly heart-breaking, so what assurance can the Minister provide to people like Hazel that they will soon be supported?
Context
Hazel, a constituent of Sarah Dyke from Street, was infected with hepatitis C in the 1970s after receiving blood products following the birth of her child. She is still waiting for compensation under the infected blood compensation scheme.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (The Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
First, I express my sympathy and, I am sure, that of the whole House to Hazel in respect of what she has been through. The assurance I give is that this Government will act at pace. That is what we did in putting the first set of regulations in place by 24 August last year and by putting the second set of regulations in place by 31 March this year. I continue to stand ready to help and support IBCA, which is operationally independent, in any way that I can to speed up the payments.
Session: Infected Blood Compensation Scheme 2025-04-24
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Women and girls will never truly be safe while terrifying online influencers such as Andrew Tate are allowed platforms that radicalise men and boys into extreme misogyny. What steps is the Secretary of State taking with Cabinet colleagues to support police in tackling violence against women and girls?
Context
Women are being radicalised into extreme misogyny through platforms used by online influencers such as Andrew Tate.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Yvette Cooper)
Measures in the Online Safety Act 2023 are being implemented over the course of this year. That includes the introduction this summer of measures expected to ensure that stronger action is taken to prevent young boys and children more widely from seeing inappropriate material, which can be very damaging and very extreme. We also need to work in schools to prevent abuse in relationships.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2025-03-31
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Lack of access to digital services prevents people from applying for jobs, studying and accessing healthcare, but community interest companies such as Donate IT, based in Wincantor, are helping to bridge the gap by diverting IT equipment that was otherwise heading to landfill. By refurbishing that tech and distributing it to the people, schools and groups who need it, Donate IT is helping to address digital poverty. How does the Minister plan to support such organisations to prevent electrical waste from going to landfill and to tackle digital exclusion?
Context
Community interest companies like Donate IT in Wincanton are helping to bridge the gap by refurbishing old IT equipment for distribution, preventing waste and addressing digital poverty.
The Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms (Chris Bryant)
I am really pleased that that is happening in the hon. Lady’s constituency. We were pleased as a Government to be able to say not only that many Government Departments will make sure that we do precisely the same thing, but that many major employers will also do the same. It is crazy to chuck old kit into landfill when, frankly, it could be used much better to provide people with digital opportunities for the future.
Session: Digital Inclusion 2025-03-26
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I thank the Minister for his response, and for the work he has done. The 2024 armed forces continuous attitude survey reported that 13% of female personnel had experienced sexual harassment in service during the prior 12 months, and many women have said they would not report an incident due to fear of the consequences. The recently announced tri-service scheme is welcome, but what steps is he taking to make it genuinely independent to ensure women’s confidence in the scheme and their safety while serving in the armed forces?
Context
The 2024 armed forces continuous attitude survey reported that 13% of female personnel had experienced sexual harassment in service during the prior 12 months, with many women expressing fear of reporting incidents due to potential consequences.
The Minister for Veterans and People (Al Carns)
There are two principal elements. The tri-service complaints system sits outside the chain of command, and when certain issues hit a threshold, they will be taken away from the single services, so the system will be completely independent. The second is the violence against women and girls taskforce that we have created, which will work directly to me. It will be a small team at my level, but it will have tentacles right down into the single services. It will provide a safe space for women to go to if they want to raise an issue or a complaint, which can then be transferred into the complaints system or, indeed, in parallel all the way up to me so that I can take action directly.
Session: Sexual Harassment 2025-03-24
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What progress has been made on achieving a 30% inflow of women into the armed forces by 2030? A balanced workforce is good for British defence, but women face challenges making it harder to attract and retain talent. What steps are being taken to accelerate towards this goal?
Context
The question pertains to the recruitment and retention challenges facing women in the military, aiming for a 30% inflow target by 2030 as per the Women in Defence Charter. Current statistics show only 11.9% female representation in regular forces and 15.9% in reserves.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
We inherited a retention and recruitment crisis which must be addressed across all cohorts. Increasing female representation benefits our warfighting and readiness, but we are still some way from where the hon. Lady would like us to be on this issue. The latest figures show 11.9% female representation in regular forces and 15.9% in reserves. Implementing Atherton review recommendations will benefit everyone in the armed forces, particularly women, by improving culture and behaviour, focusing on health and wellbeing, addressing unacceptable crimes and behaviours, and ensuring a place for everyone in our armed forces.
Session: Armed Forces 2030 Recruitment Target Women 2025-02-10
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Yet another wet winter across Somerset highlights the need for the Government to urgently deliver solutions to mitigate the impact of flooding on farmland and protect domestic food production. The Brue headwaters multi-benefit project, facilitated by the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group South West, is working with farmers and landowners in Bruton, Charlton Musgrove and Wincanton to address flooding issues and to hold workshops that focus on natural flood management, to slow the flow of water across the upper Brue, thus reducing flooding, sediment run-off and the associated pollution of water- courses. Despite those efforts, many farmers in the catchment, and indeed the county and the country, are angry at the level of inundation of land that could be prevented by better flood management. How will the Minister work to support farmers, build flood resilience and protect food security?
Context
The Government is investing in flood management solutions, including natural approaches.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Hardy)
The hon. Lady is right to point out how angry farmers are and how they feel they have been let down by the previous Government on flood defences. The previous formula allocated funding only based on numbers of properties protected and paid little regard to rural areas. She also mentioned one of my favourite themes: natural flood management. We recently held a roundtable on that, with representatives from the NFU and the Country Land and Business Association, to talk about how we can better protect our rural areas in a more nature-friendly way.
Session: Flood Preparedness Projects 2025-02-06
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I have had many victims of domestic abuse write to me, following lengthy periods of inaction from the police, the Crown Prosecution Service and other organisations, which have left victims at risk and feeling horribly anxious. How will the Minister ensure that prosecution rates improve and victims have confidence in the criminal justice system?
Context
The questioner mentions lengthy periods of inaction from police, CPS, and other organisations which left victims at risk and feeling anxious.
The Solicitor General
The hon. Member makes an important point. I am sorry to hear of the examples that she raises. This Government have a historic mission to halve violence against women and girls in a decade, and we are taking a series of important steps to work towards the increased number of prosecutions that she refers to. For example, we are introducing specialist rape and sexual offences teams in every police force; working to increase referrals with the recently launched domestic abuse joint justice plan; fast-tracking rape cases; and introducing free independent legal advisers for victims of adult rape.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Prosecution Rates 2025-02-06
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People living with disabilities in rural areas such as Glastonbury and Somerton face many barriers to finding work. How will the Minister support individuals living in rural areas to overcome these barriers and help them improve their quality of life?
Context
People living with disabilities in rural areas like Glastonbury and Somerton face barriers to employment such as lack of opportunities, poor transport, and high childcare costs.
Stephen Timms
We will be doing a lot to support disabled people into work and remove barriers, as the hon. Lady rightly says. We are setting up a disability employment panel to ensure we get this right alongside disabled people. The Connect to Work programme is also being rolled out over the year to help. If there are particular problems in her area that she would like to draw to my attention, I will be very interested to hear about them.
Session: People with Disabilities and Long-term Health Conditions Work Support 2025-02-03
View All Questions -->
Given the biosecurity threat posed by African swine fever and foot and mouth disease to more than 800 farms in my constituency, alongside thousands of others up and down the country, what steps is the right hon. Gentleman taking with Cabinet colleagues to ensure national security and protect British agriculture? I am sure that a statement would be very welcome.
Context
More than 170 tonnes of illegal meat products have been seized at the port of Dover since 2022. There is a biosecurity threat posed by African swine fever and foot and mouth disease to thousands of farms in the UK.
Pat McFadden
As I said in response to the shadow Minister, we take the threat of foot and mouth in particular very seriously. We want to work with our farmers and protect them. This is a matter of national security, but it is also a matter of making sure that Great British farming is not affected by the outbreak in Germany.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-01-23
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister join me in congratulating Service Dogs UK on their work? Will the Government support such charities to expand their crucial work?
Context
Service Dogs UK, a charity supporting armed forces and emergency services veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, has been matching rescue dogs with veterans in Somerset and the wider south-west since 2020.
The Minister for Veterans and People (Al Carns)
The charity has my full congratulations on the work it is doing. Having pets such as a dog provides psychological comfort and friends, especially for people healing from some of the psychological impacts of service or indeed combat, and I fully support it. If the hon. Member would like to discuss at a later date how we could push that forward, she should please reach out to me.
Session: Support for Veterans 2025-01-06
View All Questions -->
How will the Minister support community energy schemes and ensure that they play a fair and full role in creating clean energy?
Context
The questioner mentions Avalon Community Energy projects in Glastonbury projected to save 1,000 tonnes of carbon per year.
Michael Shanks
We are committed to ensuring not just that we have an energy mix where communities benefit, but also that they benefit from the economic and social advantages of owning the energy they produce.
Session: Community Energy Projects 2024-12-17
View All Questions -->
Some 18,000 homes with planning permission across Somerset are waiting to be built, but nutrient neutrality issues, flood risk and the national shortage of planners are preventing or delaying the delivery of those much-needed homes. What discussions has the Minister had with Cabinet colleagues about fixing the issue and ensuring that appropriate homes are built to help reduce the strain caused by the lack of housing in Somerset?
Context
Nutrient neutrality, flood risk, and the national shortage of planners are preventing or delaying the construction of 18,000 homes with planning permission across Somerset.
Rushanara Ali
I can reassure the hon Lady that the Government are addressing those issues and will take appropriate action. My right hon Friend the Secretary of State and other Ministers are very much engaged with this important agenda.
Session: Homelessness Reduction 2024-12-02
View All Questions -->
There is a significant disparity in sentencing for murder based on whether a weapon was taken to the scene of a domestic crime or was already present. Sentences start 10 years lower if the weapon was already at the crime scene compared to those who brought a weapon with them. Does the Minister agree that this disparity must be tackled?
Context
The question addresses a significant disparity in sentencing for murderers based on whether they brought the weapon to the crime scene or it was already present.
Jess Phillips
A Ministry of Justice sentencing review is currently ongoing, and I know that Members here will want to feed into that. Julie Devey and Carole Gould are parents fighting this campaign.
Session: Domestic Abuse 2024-11-25
View All Questions -->
I recently met Got Your Six in Wincanton, which provides crucial therapeutic support for veterans and serving personnel. One veteran told me that its support had been invaluable at a point in his life when he could not see a future. Will the Minister join me in congratulating Got Your Six, and will the Government support such groups to expand their crucial work?
Context
Got Your Six in Wincanton provides crucial therapeutic support to veterans, with one veteran stating that the organisation had been invaluable during a difficult period. The charity requires continued government backing to expand its work.
Alistair Carns
I congratulate Got Your Six and all the charitable sector on the amazing voluntary work that goes on across the country. I, too, have seen the amazing work that Got Your Six does and would like to meet its representatives in due course if they come down to Westminster.
Session: Veterans Newcastle-under-Lyme 2024-11-18
View All Questions -->
What steps is the Minister taking with her Cabinet colleagues to support businesses in the south-west?
Context
According to the latest Begbies Traynor's “Red Flag Alert” report, almost 48,000 companies in the south-west are now classed as in significant economic distress. The MP seeks information on support measures from the government and its Cabinet colleagues.
Georgia Gould
This Government are determined to support growth in this country. Work is going on across Government to support economic growth and investment, ensuring that high streets thrive again.
Session: Companies in Distress 2024-10-24
View All Questions -->
The cost of rural crime has risen sharply while impacting farmers' mental health according to recent surveys. The MP asks how the department supports neighbourhood officers and rural beats dealing with heightened levels of rural crime effectively.
Context
The MP cites a 41% increase in rural crime costs between 2022-2023, affecting farmers' mental health negatively.
Yvette Cooper
The hon. Member raises serious concerns about increased crime costs and mental health impacts on farmers. We need more neighbourhood policing in rural areas recognising unique challenges. A new rural crime action plan is set to address these issues alongside broader plans for neighbourhood policing.
Session: Neighbourhood Policing 2024-10-21
View All Questions -->
What steps will be taken to address the shortage of science, technology, engineering and maths skills in the defence industry?
Context
There is a growing concern over the lack of STEM skills in the defence sector, impacting national capabilities.
Luke Pollard
The Government recognise the importance of south-west defence companies. They aim to invest sustainably in skills for both serving personnel and supporting roles, as part of a longer-term plan set out in the strategic defence review.
Session: UK Defences 2024-10-14
View All Questions -->
Does the Solicitor General agree that more needs to be done to strengthen the justice system as a whole to properly deal with sexual violence and domestic abuse across England and Wales?
Context
Only one in 83 rape offences recorded by Avon and Somerset Police last year resulted in a charge or court summons, significantly higher compared to other police forces in the south-west.
Sarah Sackman
There is a commitment to introduce specialist rape courts, working to fast-track rape cases and driving down wait times. Additionally, putting domestic abuse experts in 999 control rooms at the start of the system will be important.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2024-09-12
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Small Abattoirs
08 May 2025
Responding: Daniel Zeichner
Main Concerns
['The abattoir industry is at crisis point, with just 60 small abattoirs left in the UK as of 2023. According to a 2022 Food Standards Agency report, small abattoirs are closing at an alarming rate of 10% per year. The remaining small abattoirs face immense challenges and increased costs, including rising energy costs and employer national insurance contributions.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to ensure the continuation of the small abattoir discount on inspection charges so that small abattoirs can remain financially viable.']
Ambulance Response Times
06 March 2025
Responding: Ashley Dalton
Main Concerns
['Unacceptable ambulance response times have led to an estimated 50,000 deaths last year after long A&E waits. In Glastonbury and Somerton, residents faced horrific delays in receiving emergency care, with some waiting up to 13 hours for an ambulance. Ambulance staff are also experiencing burnout, with the NHS staff survey showing that 39% of respondents often or always felt burnt out.']
Specific Asks
['The Liberal Democrats demand localised data on ambulance delays and focused support for underperforming rural areas like Somerset to improve response times. They have called for a review of hospital handover policies and the adoption of innovative measures such as trial handovers in Nottingham to address these issues.']
Rural Broadband
13 November 2024
Responding: Chris Bryant
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the poor broadband coverage in rural areas, with only 21% of county areas having gigabit broadband compared to 70% of London. In my constituency, more than 15% of premises receive lines getting 10 megabits per second or less, putting the area in the worst 10% in the UK. Businesses and farmers are struggling due to slow internet speeds and unreliable connections, impacting productivity and security.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to ensure that the remaining unspent funds for Project Gigabit are spent on ensuring hard-to-reach areas are covered. The ongoing spending review must take into account the opportunities in rural areas for boosting UK productivity by £72 billion by 2030.']
Rural Bus Services
11 September 2024
Responding: Simon Lightwood
Main Concerns
['Rural bus service users travel an average of 47% further compared with their urban counterparts, who also receive more funding per head. Budgeted local authority expenditure in rural areas is on average £11.68 per resident, while it is £20.22 in urban areas. There has been a concerning trend of bus route closures in rural and county areas over the past decade, with one in four routes ceasing to exist since 2010-11. Rural households spend almost £800 a year more on fuel than people in urban areas due to the lack of decent public transport.']
Specific Asks
['The Minister is asked to provide specific guidance on the protection of bus routes for social and environmental reasons, clarify future funding arrangements such as BSIP funds, retain the £2 fare cap, support local authorities and bus companies in switching to zero emission buses, and include rural areas in rail projects.']
SEND Provision: Somerset
03 September 2024
Responding: Catherine McKinnell
Main Concerns
['The current SEND system in Somerset is broken due to high demand, insufficient funding, and an adversarial approach. Since the reforms under the Children and Families Act 2014, there has been a significant increase in the number of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), leading to a surge in costs. Mainstream schools face real-term cuts, while independent specialist schools are far more expensive, placing further pressure on councils. Rural areas like Somerset also struggle with high home-to-school transport costs, exacerbating the issue. The system is failing to meet the needs of vulnerable children and is causing financial strain for local authorities, leading to a one-way exit from education for some children who move to home schooling.']
Specific Asks
['The government must speed up the process of granting EHCPs and provide funding to support early interventions. The Liberal Democrats propose creating a national body for SEND that would fund support for those with high needs, identify areas needing early intervention, and lower future costs by addressing issues before they escalate.']
Storm Chandra Flooding
11 February 2026
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
The hon. Member Sarah Dyke raised concerns about the impact of Storm Chandra on Somerset, highlighting the immediate and long-term effects of flooding on communities. She emphasised the need for bette...
Police Reform White Paper 2026-01-26
26 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Agricultural Sector Import Standards 2026-01-22
22 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focuses on the imbalance between high domestic farming standards in the UK, prioritising animal welfare and environmental considerations, and the often lower import standards. Sam Carling h...
Fishing Industry 2026-01-22
22 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The fishing industry is critical to food security as an island nation. It supports communities, especially in coastal areas, but faces challenges such as climate change impacts, regulatory issues, and...
Local Government Reorganisation 2026-01-22
22 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Water White Paper 2026-01-21
21 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Business of the House 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP expressed concern over the lack of full costing in the strategic defence review, resulting in delays to the Defence Investment Plan. He highlighted issues faced by local businesses such as the ...
Iran 2026-01-13
13 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
New Medium Helicopter Contract 2026-01-12
12 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the Adoption Fund will continue to support adoption placements for children throughout 2024-25 and provide details on future funding allocations beyond that point?
New Medium Helicopter Contract 2026-01-12 (1)
12 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm if the Government plan to go ahead with the new medium helicopter contract, reassure us that the delays do not mean funding is unavailable and commit today to protect jobs in...
Rural Post Offices
01 September 2025
The petition highlights the threat to rural post offices in Glastonbury and Somerton, noting the closure of several local post offices and the significant community impact, with over 800 signatures co...
View Full Petition -->
Rural Post Offices
15 July 2025
The petition addresses the closure of rural post offices in Glastonbury and Somerton, noting that the loss of several post offices has been detrimental to the local community. It highlights the prohib...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
72.7%
16 of 22 votes
Aye Votes
10
45.5% of votes
No Votes
6
27.3% of votes
Abstentions
6
27.3% of votes
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
20 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 63 Stand part
Ayes: 348
Noes: 167
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 26
Ayes: 172
Noes: 334
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 9
Ayes: 181
Noes: 335
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 86 stand part
Ayes: 344
Noes: 173
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 25
Ayes: 187
Noes: 351
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 24
Ayes: 184
Noes: 331
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 7
Ayes: 188
Noes: 341
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 185
Noes: 344
Failed
3
PMQs Asked
45
Ministerial Questions Asked
81
House of Commons Debates Involved
5
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
22
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 649 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+55% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
1.9
Ministerial Questions
+467% above average
This MP:
45
Average:
7.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+225% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
1.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3325% above average
This MP:
81
Average:
2.4
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
5.1
Petitions Presented
-11% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.2
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-4% below average
This MP:
72.7
Average:
75.6
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 Sarah Dyke's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.