Christine Jardine
MP for Edinburgh West
Lib Dem
8 Jun 2017 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I associate myself with the comments of my party leader about Lord Wallace, but conversations are taking place today and up and down the country about Peter Mandelson’s involvement with the paedophile who trafficked women. Given that millions of women, especially here in this country, will be triggered by this news and given the establishment’s proximity to what happened, will the Prime Minister assure us that helplines will be set up and that we will support direct victims as well as those indirectly triggered?
Context
Peter Mandelson is being investigated regarding his association with a paedophile who trafficked women. This has significant implications for many women, particularly those in the UK.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
The hon. Member is right to raise that. Obviously, we will support the police with their investigation but we will also press on with our work to halve violence against women and girls which is very much about putting in place the support that is needed for all victims of violence. That is a crucial part of our work and I hope that we can work across the House in support of that.
Assessment
Specific commitment to set up helplines was not explicitly made.
Session: PMQs 2026-02-04
View Full Session -->
Q10. May I associate myself with the remarks of the Liberal Democrat leader and others today? I wish a happy new year to everyone, but 2025 is already proving a challenge for many of my constituents—pensioners, families, small businesses, the hospitality industry, GPs and social care providers, as others have said. They know that the SNP has failed to deliver for Scotland. They hear the Prime Minister when he says that the Conservatives left the economy in a mess, and they know that Governments have to make difficult decisions. But what they are asking me is: when will this Government do something positive for them to overcome the negative impacts that they are facing from the Budget?
Context
The hon. Member's constituents face negative impacts from the Budget, including pensioners, families, small businesses, and others.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I associate myself with what has been said about the remarks of the Liberal Democrat leader and others today, wishing everyone a happy new year. The challenges that your constituents face are significant, but I understand their desire for positive actions from the government to mitigate these impacts.
Session: PMQs 2025-01-08
View Full Session -->
In my constituency of Edinburgh West, several GP practices have contacted me with concerns that the changes to national insurance employer contributions will affect their ability to offer the same standard of health service. Can you explain how these practices are expected to cope without additional support from the Government?
Context
Several GP practices in Edinburgh West are concerned about the impact of recent changes to employer NI contributions, threatening their ability to maintain current service standards.
Keir Starmer
We have put forward a Budget that includes an extra £25.6 billion for the NHS and social care, including an increase in carers' allowance and £600 million to address adult social care pressures. GP practices will receive the resources they need through funding arrangements.
Assessment
Did not specify how GP practices are directly supported by the new budget for NI changes
Under Review
Session: PMQs 2024-11-13
View Full Session -->
How will the Prime Minister ensure that VAT raised from fees can be reinvested in Scotland's education system?
Context
The Government has proposed levying VAT on independent school fees, raising concerns about the capacity of state schools in Scotland to accommodate pupils from independent sectors.
Keir Starmer
I am determined to have the right teachers in place in our state secondary schools to ensure every child has the same opportunity, regardless of their background.
Assessment
Ensure VAT raised from fees is reinvested in Scotland's education
Determined To Have The Right Teachers
Same Opportunity For Every Child
Session: PMQs 2024-07-24
View Full Session -->
When these Ministers promised to reduce waiting times for driving tests, they said it would be down to seven weeks. A year later, the wait is now 21.9 weeks and has even increased by three weeks since coming into power. Is this a sign of competence?
Context
The MP pointed out that despite promises, the average wait time for a driving test has increased from seven weeks to 21.9 weeks since the new government took office.
Lilian Greenwood
The National Audit Office report stated that the Department for Transport had limited involvement in addressing driving test waiting times up to mid-2024. The previous Government largely left DVSA to resolve issues independently before 2024.
Session: Driving Test Waiting Times 2026-02-12
View All Questions -->
What discussions has the Secretary of State had with stakeholders on teenagers’ use of social media? The Government in Australia are playing a game of whack-a-mole as they struggle to keep up with young people switching between social media sites and new apps that have just been brought on board. I have spoken to people in the industry here and to parents who say that a blanket ban is not working. Will the Government consider a more varied approach, along the lines that the Liberal Democrats have suggested, with a licensing scheme based on certification for cinema screens?
Context
The MP asked about discussions on teenagers' use of social media and referenced Australia's struggles with regulating new apps and switching between platforms.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Liz Kendall)
I have spoken to a range of individuals and organisations about teenagers’ use of social media. Last month, I met families who have suffered unimaginable tragedy as a result of their children’s experiences online. In April, my Department will co-host an event with the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children on AI’s impact on children. We are considering different options including a ban on social media for under-16s, raising the digital age of consent, overnight curfews and stronger age verification measures.
Session: Teenagers’ Use of Social Media 2026-02-04
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to support hospitality businesses. The Minister referred to there being hospitality businesses in every corner of this country. Unfortunately, the change in business rates does not help hospitality businesses in every corner of this country because business rates are devolved in Scotland and Wales, and the businesses in my constituency of Edinburgh West are struggling. Hospitality is absolutely vital to the Scottish economy, and so far the SNP Government have proved completely ineffectual at dealing with the issue. The Minister speaks about the strategy coming later in the year. In it, might it be useful for VAT to be reduced for businesses in this sector across the UK, so that every corner of the United Kingdom can benefit?
Context
Christine Jardine raises the issue of devolved business rates in Scotland and Wales, noting that the change does not help hospitality businesses in every part of the UK due to regional variations.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Kate Dearden)
All the devolved Governments have full control over the structure and level of business rates within their jurisdiction. As the hon. Lady mentioned, the new relief applies to England only; however, the devolved Governments have additional funding to allocate according to their priorities. We call on the SNP to decide whether to match the support for pubs and music venues that we have decided this week to provide. It is up to them to decide how to spend their money; we have made it clear this week what our priorities are and how we would do it.
Session: Hospitality Sector 2026-01-29
View All Questions -->
Sadly, Jagtar Singh Johal’s case is not unique; there are other instances of human rights violations against British citizens. Given that one of our biggest allies has stated peace is no longer a priority and considering the dangerous world we live in, does the Minister agree it is time to make consular assistance a legal right for all British citizens?
Context
Jagtar Singh Johal's case is part of a broader context of human rights violations against UK citizens abroad. Christine Jardine notes that the world is becoming more dangerous, posing threats to the human rights of British citizens.
Hamish Falconer
We are committed to introducing a right to consular assistance. We will return to this House with more detail about what form that will take.
Session: UK Citizens Detained Abroad 2026-01-20
View All Questions -->
I appreciate the Minister’s answer. Those 40,000 jobs are vital, but they are still outnumbered by the many thousands of jobs in the oil and gas sector. The rate of job losses there is accelerating, and people are increasingly going abroad, creating a concern that the skills necessary for the green transition will be lost. What will the Government do to create transitional training and job movement within those two sectors?
Context
The MP is concerned about job losses in the oil and gas sector outweighing new jobs in clean energy. She notes a rapid decline in oil and gas employment, with workers moving abroad.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Chris McDonald)
This Government recognise the importance of the North sea oil and gas industry, and the importance of oil and gas for decades to come, but we also recognise that the North sea is a declining basin. That is why we published our North sea plan, which supports the transition of workers in the North sea into clean energy jobs, and why we are investing in our clean industry bonus, which incentivises businesses that are investing in offshore wind to ensure that those offshore wind jobs are located here in the UK—a fundamental difference between this Labour Government and the previous Conservative Government, who were happy for those jobs to be based in other countries in Europe.
Session: Renewable Energy Jobs 2026-01-06
View All Questions -->
I welcome the Minister’s comments and the Government’s violence against women and girls strategy. However, misogyny runs deeper in society, damaging women through attitudes and actions online and offline. As we focus on prevention and tackling harassment, will the Minister outline the position on misogyny becoming a hate crime?
Context
The question follows a general discussion on the Government's approach to tackling hate crimes, including recent legislative initiatives.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
A review is being undertaken by Lord Ken Macdonald KC, who is looking at hate crime legislation in the round. We want to wait for his recommendations before the Home Secretary makes decisions on whether misogyny should be a hate crime.
Session: Hate Crime 2026-01-05
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister join me in pressing for Scottish retailers to receive the same sort of business rates relief, and pass this message on to other Ministers?
Context
Scottish retailers are requesting similar business rates relief as those in the rest of the UK to help level the playing field.
Blair McDougall
I am happy to join the hon. Lady in pressing for that action. It is a running theme that when we in this place vote to introduce more support, the money goes through to the Scottish Government but is not passed on to grassroots communities around the country.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-12-11
View All Questions -->
With organisations such as Girlguiding UK and the Women’s Institute saying that they have been forced to exclude the trans community against their will, how soon can we expect the guidance that the Secretary of State says is being considered?
Context
Organisations such as Girlguiding UK and the Women’s Institute have expressed concerns about being forced to exclude transgender individuals against their will.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
I have said many times in this House, I welcome the clarity of the Supreme Court ruling, and providers should follow it. The EHRC has given me a draft code of practice. We are working through it—it is a lengthy document—and we will take this further as soon as we can.
Session: Transgender People Safe Spaces 2025-12-10
View All Questions -->
Some 40% of children in Stenhouse in my constituency of Edinburgh West live in poverty. There are nine Pride in Place projects being considered across Edinburgh, but none include that area of deprivation. Are there plans to change the criteria so that such areas can be included, helping to attack problems such as child poverty?
Context
The question follows the announcement of £500 million investment through the Pride in Place programme to revitalise communities across Scotland, with 14 neighbourhoods selected for £20 million each over 10 years. Concern is raised about the lack of inclusion of deprived areas like Stenhouse in Edinburgh West.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
There are no plans to change the criteria against which local authority areas will be selected, but I can confirm that we do not have long to wait before the areas will be confirmed.
Session: Pride in Place Programme 2025-11-26
View All Questions -->
UKHospitality estimates that the industry contributes £8 billion a year to the Scottish economy. A major increase in standing charges would hit it hard. Many businesses in the sector are energy-hungry—for example, distilleries, pubs and restaurants—and across my constituency there is concern about the winter ahead. They want to know what this Government will do to protect them and ensure fairness for small businesses.
Context
UKHospitality estimates that the hospitality sector contributes £8 billion a year to the Scottish economy, and many businesses in this sector are concerned about rising energy costs.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Chris McDonald)
I do understand just how important the hospitality sector is to the hon. Member and her constituents, as a major part of the local economy. The Government’s clean power mission—investing in renewable energy, lifting the onshore wind ban and investing in offshore wind at pace—is bringing down energy costs and will bring down energy costs from 2030 onwards. The crucial challenge is how we help businesses to manage the transition between now and 2030. Measures such as the British industrial competitiveness scheme, which was announced in our industrial strategy, will support over 7,000 businesses across the country.
Session: Energy Costs Support for Businesses 2025-11-18
View All Questions -->
I am concerned about the serious problem with driving test centres in my constituency, where all five closest centres have waiting times of 24 weeks. Can I ask for specific interest and special attention given to Scotland, where this is a significant problem in rural areas?
Context
The MP noted severe driving test centre waiting times of up to six months across her constituency. She highlighted that this issue is particularly acute in rural areas.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
I will meet the hon. Member.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-09-11
View All Questions -->
Earlier this year, a constituent of mine in Edinburgh West contacted me about the delay she had faced in getting the pension credit she was entitled to. She applied in September last year and was told that she would receive it in November, but it was March before she got her pension credit awarded. The delay meant that she went without extra support just when she lost her winter fuel allowance, so what steps will the Minister take to cut those delays and stop more vulnerable pensioners from being left cold this winter?
Context
A constituent of Christine Jardine's experienced a delay in receiving pension credit, going without support when she lost her winter fuel allowance. This highlights broader concerns about delays and their impact on vulnerable pensioners.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Torsten Bell)
I hope the hon. Member will write to me with the details of the case she raised. On the more general picture, I can reassure her that we now have a lower backlog of pension credit cases to be processed than we inherited from the last Government, despite the record number of claims that have come through.
Session: Pension Credit Uptake 2025-09-01
View All Questions -->
I hope the Minister will join me in thanking all the hard-working hospitality staff who are about to have a very busy summer, particularly in Edinburgh West, where they are about to be immersed in the Edinburgh international festival. We are very hospitable in Edinburgh. The hospitality industry is worth £198 million to my constituency, but businesses are suffering because of the national insurance changes, and in Scotland we will not benefit from business rates reform. With the national insurance changes and the impacts of Brexit and covid, it is a very uncertain time. What else will the Minister do to help businesses across Scotland that will not have the benefit of business rates reform?
Context
The MP highlighted the economic value of the hospitality industry in her constituency and noted that businesses are suffering due to national insurance changes, Brexit impacts, and the lack of benefit from business rates reform.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
I thank the hon. Lady for her kind invitation. It is possible that I will be darkening the door of businesses in her constituency this summer. We are determined to continue working with hospitality businesses, whether in Scotland or in the rest of the country. As I said in an earlier answer, we have set out plans for a licensing taskforce to look at what else we can do to lower the cost of red tape and regulation. As the hon. Lady rightly says, we are taking measures to reform business rates, and perhaps the Scottish Government might like to follow our example.
Session: Hospitality Sector 2025-07-17
View All Questions -->
What discussions has the Secretary of State had with the Welsh Government on the potential impact of the spending review 2025 on Wales?
Context
The MP inquired about discussions regarding the potential impact of the UK government's spending review 2025 on Wales.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
Through the spending review, we are providing a record £22.4 billion per year on average for the Welsh Government; investing at least £445 million in Welsh rail; investing £211 million a year in local growth funding; and providing £118 million of new funding for coal tip safety. This Labour Government are investing in Wales’s economy, public services and people.
Session: Spending Review 2025 2025-07-16
View All Questions -->
What steps is the Government taking to manage the switch-off of the radio teleswitch service? I welcome the Government’s change in course, but there is still a problem in Scotland with about 97,000 meters needing replacement and many people unaware. In rural communities, what specific actions are being taken to ensure vulnerable people get protection?
Context
The previous hard deadline for the radio teleswitch service phase-out would have left many people, particularly in rural areas of Scotland, vulnerable and unaware of the need to change their meter. 100,000 people are still waiting on meters.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Miatta Fahnbulleh)
We have been working closely with the Scottish Government and engaging with Scottish MPs. All households in Scotland that require a meter replacement have been contacted multiple times. Additionally, suppliers are collaborating with local authorities to address particular challenges in rural communities. Suppliers will work on emergency appointments for those who need them, and no area will be switched off without informing consumers, allowing them to book emergency appointments, and notifying MPs and local authorities.
Session: Radio Teleswitch Service 2025-07-15
View All Questions -->
The strategic defence review makes it clear that housing must be a priority, and that the money from the sale of housing must be reinvested. Veterans continually come to me who have been discharged into homelessness. Can the Minister reassure us that we will ensure that houses that are sold or redeveloped are available to veterans’ families?
Context
MP Christine Jardine associates herself with remarks on Aberdeen FC and then discusses the importance of housing for veterans.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
I am very pleased to offer the hon. Lady that reassurance.
Session: Veterans 2025-06-04
View All Questions -->
Every year, an estimated 5,000 British citizens are arrested abroad, many of them under false pretences. Many are used as hostages and denied access to legal representation, and their families are left without information, not knowing what has happened to them. High-profile cases at the moment include those of Alaa Abd el-Fattah in Egypt and Jagtar Singh Johal in India. None of these people has an automatic right to support, as is the case with other countries such as the United States, so can the Minister give us more details about exactly what the consular assistance will be and whether it will be automatic for everyone?
Context
5,000 British citizens are estimated to be arrested abroad annually, often under false pretences. Cases like Alaa Abd el-Fattah in Egypt and Jagtar Singh Johal in India highlight the need for consular assistance.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
The safety and security of British nationals overseas is a top priority for the Government. This is a complex area of policy—the hon. Lady has described the wide range of different consular cases that the Foreign Office responds to, from kidnap cases to more routine cases. As I set out to the Foreign Affairs Committee, given the complexity of these issues we will come back to Parliament in due course with options for consultation.
Session: Consular Assistance Statutory Right 2025-05-13
View All Questions -->
A number of constituents in Edinburgh West—former police officers and current/former NHS staff—have come to me with concerns about how the McCloud judgment on public sector pensions is being implemented. How will the Government ensure there is no negative impact?
Context
The question deals with the concerns of former police officers, NHS staff and others about the implementation of the McCloud judgment on public sector pensions.
Torsten Bell (The Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury)
We need to take the implementation seriously. If specific cases are identified, please write to me about them; we are working closely with the NHS pension scheme to ensure members receive relevant letters as soon as possible.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-05-12
View All Questions -->
Three years after Baroness Kennedy’s groundbreaking review on tackling misogyny in law, late on Friday, the SNP said that it would scrap its planned Bill to tackle widespread misogyny and hatred against women. Plans to tackle misogynistic harassment, the stirring up of hatred, and sending threatening or abusive communications to women, and an aggravated offence of misogyny—all scrapped in favour of a watered-down amendment to the Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act 2021. Women across the United Kingdom need action, and reassurance that politicians will root out the attitudes that lead to hatred against women in public life. If the SNP will not do it, will this Government act to give women the support that they need?
Context
The SNP scrapped its planned Bill to tackle widespread misogyny and hatred against women. Baroness Kennedy’s review on tackling misogyny in law was groundbreaking.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
The hon. Lady makes an impassioned point. It will be a fundamental part of the violence against women and girls strategy to get to the exact reason why we have ended up with an epidemic of violence against women and girls in all the nations of the United Kingdom, and to root it out.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2025-05-07
View All Questions -->
I hear what the Secretary of State is saying, but Scotland’s declining oil and gas industries have lost 40% of their jobs in the past decade, and today Grangemouth has warned that it may have to pause important projects involving a switch to greener and more sustainable forms of energy because of what it describes as soaring energy bills and the pressures of income tax. We know that Grangemouth needs investment, but it also needs more than the Government are doing at the moment. What intervention are they planning to protect jobs and the communities that could be hollowed out if Grangemouth is not saved?
Context
The MP mentions Scotland's declining oil and gas industries, a loss of 40% jobs over a decade. She cites warnings from Grangemouth about potential project pauses due to soaring energy bills and income tax pressures.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
As the hon. Lady will know, we inherited this situation from the last Government, but we set aside £200 million to build the future in Grangemouth and we are working closely with the Scottish Government on precisely that, in a Government-to-Government collaboration. As for the hon. Lady’s wider question about industrial energy prices, we should obviously look at what different sectors are saying.
Session: Renewable Energy Sector Job Creation 2025-04-29
View All Questions -->
I thank the Minister for that response and welcome the increased co-operation with allies on this vital issue. It is critical that we stop the dangerous crossings, but without tackling the problem at its source, with aid to tackle famine and conflict and by providing safe legal routes, do we not risk the crisis continuing? How will the Minister work with colleagues across Government to address those factors to ensure that we tackle the crisis fully?
Context
The MP addressed the government's efforts to combat people smuggling, referencing an ongoing summit and noting cross-government collaboration is crucial.
The Minister for Border Security and Asylum (Dame Angela Eagle)
The summit is dealing with source countries. We are looking at how we can co-operate with countries all the way along the routes used by smuggling gangs to ensure that the right messages, rather than very slick organised immigration gang advertising, are conveyed.
Session: People Smuggling 2025-03-31
View All Questions -->
For eight years, I have seen how a young constituent has been able to completely control his previously life-threatening seizures with medicinal cannabis, but at huge cost to his family—a cost that is prohibitive for other people. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss how we can make access to such treatments more affordable, accessible and safe, so that we can help more people?
Context
A young constituent has been able to control life-threatening seizures with medicinal cannabis but at a prohibitive cost for other families.
Karin Smyth
We recently had a helpful debate in Westminster Hall on this topic. We are doing more research on this issue to ensure that the evidence base is there. I am happy to discuss the matter further with the hon. Member.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-25
View All Questions -->
For eight years, I have seen how a young constituent has been able to completely control his previously life-threatening seizures with medicinal cannabis, but at huge cost to his family—a cost that is prohibitive for other people. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss how we can make access to such treatments more affordable, accessible and safe, so that we can help more people?
Context
A young constituent has been able to control life-threatening seizures with medicinal cannabis but at a prohibitive cost for other families.
Karin Smyth
We recently had a helpful debate in Westminster Hall on this topic. We are doing more research on this issue to ensure that the evidence base is there. I am happy to discuss the matter further with the hon. Member.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-25
View All Questions -->
For eight years, I have seen how a young constituent has been able to completely control his previously life-threatening seizures with medicinal cannabis, but at huge cost to his family—a cost that is prohibitive for other people. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss how we can make access to such treatments more affordable, accessible and safe, so that we can help more people?
Context
A young constituent has been able to control life-threatening seizures with medicinal cannabis but at a prohibitive cost for other families.
Karin Smyth
We recently had a helpful debate in Westminster Hall on this topic. We are doing more research on this issue to ensure that the evidence base is there. I am happy to discuss the matter further with the hon. Member.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-25
View All Questions -->
We all know that life is more expensive for someone who is disabled, and that investing in mental health and social care would give disabled people the support that they deserve. Liberal Democrats believe that if the Government were serious about cutting welfare spending, they would get serious about fixing health and social care, and the broken Department for Work and Pensions. By fixing that, we would reduce the benefits bill in the long term, but yesterday’s changes, which slash the support offered to vulnerable people, will leave many people facing difficult choices. Can the Minister assure disabled people, including the 80,000 in Scotland who are still receiving PIP, that they will be listened to, their needs will be taken into account, and they will somehow continue to get the support that they need?
Context
Liberal Democrats argue that fixing health and social care would reduce the benefits bill in the long term. The announcement of changes to PIP is seen as slashing support for vulnerable people.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
I am sure the hon. Lady will welcome the additional £26 billion being invested in the national health service in the coming financial year, for exactly the reasons she set out, and the most severely impaired people will be protected under the changes that we announced yesterday to the personal independence payment. Yes, we will be consulting—there will be a full 12-week consultation period on the Green Paper proposals, and we will be listening carefully to what everybody says in response.
Session: Health and Disability Green Paper 2025-03-19
View All Questions -->
Scotland's Churches Trust estimates that the Church of Scotland could lose 30% of its churches in the coming years. St Andrew’s in Clermiston in my constituency could be one of them. It celebrated its 70th anniversary this year but could face closure because of declining congregations and lower incomes, threatening a valuable community space used by vulnerable and elderly people. Can the Second Church Estates Commissioner outline how the Church of England could work with the Church of Scotland to share best practice on managing churches with smaller congregations to preserve those valuable community spaces?
Context
The Church of Scotland is facing potential loss of up to 30% of its churches due to declining congregations and lower incomes. St Andrew’s in Clermiston, which celebrated its 70th anniversary this year, could face closure.
Marsha De Cordova
The National Church Institutions and the Church of Scotland signed the Columba declaration, committing to joint dialogue on a range of issues. I understand that they meet regularly to discuss these issues. It might be useful for her to reach out to the Church of Scotland on that, and if she is unable to do so, I am happy to put her in touch with it.
Session: Church of Scotland Declining Congregations 2025-02-27
View All Questions -->
I welcome the commitment that the Minister has given the House and the determination to show our opposition to Trump’s disgraceful approach, but I am disappointed that she does not see this as the ideal moment to commit to recognising the state of Palestine. What is being done across Government to reassure the communities in this country who have suffered outrageous abuse since 7 October 2023?
Context
MP welcomed the commitment to oppose Trump's approach but was disappointed that recognition of Palestine wasn't committed to. MP also raised concerns about abuse since 7 October 2023.
The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)
I want to underline to the hon. Lady that, as we have made very clear, Palestinian statehood is the right of the Palestinian people—it is not in the gift of any neighbour—and is essential to the long-term security of Israel as well. The UK is working with partners to support a path to long-term peace and stability with a two-state solution. We condemn all forms of abuse, including antisemitism, Islamophobia, and hate crimes.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 2025-02-06
View All Questions -->
We welcome the Government’s mission to halve violence against women and girls, but a recent report from the National Audit Office makes grim reading, stating that one in 12 women are victims of violence every year and that there were more than 2 million victims in the year up to June 2024. It also suggests while there is a welcome focus on victims, we are not doing enough in terms of prevention. How will the Minister ensure that this mission will focus on education and prevention in schools as well as seeking to support every survivor, and is she speaking to the Scottish Government about co-ordination?
Context
The National Audit Office report suggests that while there is a focus on victims, efforts in prevention are insufficient. With one in 12 women experiencing violence annually and over two million victims in the year up to June 2024, it highlights the need for education and prevention.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
The hon. Lady is right to draw attention to the legacy picture painted by the National Audit Office. We are investing in a new national policing centre for VAWG public protection, and ensuring that we have a real focus on tackling high-risk offenders by intervening much earlier and taking further measures involving domestic abuse specialists. However, as the hon. Lady says, this is also about prevention. It is a responsibility for all of us across society, men and women alike, and there is an important role for education. Work is under way in the Department for Education to ensure that young people, from an early point, understand healthy relationships and what consent looks like. Of course, I am always happy to discuss that with colleagues across the UK.
Session: Domestic Violence Prevention Services 2025-02-05
View All Questions -->
What discussions has she had with Cabinet colleagues on support for artificial intelligence research and development in the higher education sector? Many of my constituents and local academics have expressed concern about the cancellation last year, by this Government, of what would have been the UK’s only exascale computer at Edinburgh University. That was not mentioned in the AI opportunities action plan. It would have been a major beneficial development in this sector. What discussions is the Secretary of State having with Cabinet colleagues to ensure that this takes place, and can she reassure the public that the benefits of AI will be spread to universities across the UK?
Context
Constituents and local academics expressed concern over the cancellation of an exascale computer project at Edinburgh University, which would have been the UK's only such facility. The previous government had announced this programme but full funding was not allocated.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
I appreciate the hon. Lady’s interest in this area. She will know that the proposed exascale supercomputer is one programme that the Government are considering. We are currently assessing the best way to take this forward. The previous programme was announced under the last Government, for which full funding was not allocated. We are committed to developing a strategy setting out a 10-year plan for our country’s needs. That plan will be published in the coming months alongside the spending review, but I will ensure that officials in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology pick up her concern and that she receives a full response.
Session: Artificial Intelligence Research and Development 2025-01-27
View All Questions -->
What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help tackle violence against women and girls.
Context
The MP expressed concern about violence against women and girls, highlighting the need for a sustainable model to protect specialist services.
Jess Phillips
Merry Christmas, Mr Speaker. The Government are relentless in our efforts to halve violence against women and girls. In just five and a half months in office, we have launched domestic abuse protection orders in selected areas, outlined new measures enhancing our response to stalking, and announced £30 million in extra funding for victims of domestic abuse and their families in safe accommodation services—and that is simply the beginning.
Session: Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls 2024-12-18
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the adequacy of levels of take up of parental leave? The parent rights survey 2019 found that while 89% of employee mothers took maternity leave and 70% of employee fathers took paternity leave, take-up of shared parental leave is much lower. I agree with the Minister: it is very disappointing.
Context
Concerns have been raised about low take-up rates for shared parental leave and issues with current maternity pay levels, particularly among lower-earning families.
Justin Madders
The hon. Member makes a number of points, which I am sure we will consider as part of the review we are undertaking. The Employment Rights Bill has important measures supporting working families by bringing 1.5 million parents into scope for parental leave and another 32,000 into scope for paternity leave.
Session: Parental Leave Take-up 2024-12-12
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the adequacy of levels of take up of parental leave? I agree that it is very disappointing. For many parents, current maternity pay is too low, and the leave system is not flexible enough. A recent BBC report noted almost half of new fathers are unaware of what is available to them. The system is skewed, with lower take-up among lower earning families, especially for those with multiple births who need more time and financial support during maternity leave.
Context
The question arises from concerns about low take-up rates for shared parental leave and issues with current maternity pay levels, particularly among lower-earning families.
Justin Madders
The hon. Member makes a number of points, which I am sure we will consider as part of the review we are undertaking. The Employment Rights Bill has important measures supporting working families by bringing 1.5 million parents into scope for parental leave and another 32,000 into scope for paternity leave.
Session: Parental Leave Take-up 2024-12-12
View All Questions -->
I am sure that, like the hon. Member for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine (Andrew Bowie) and myself, the Secretary of State for Scotland is watching with bated breath for the latest Scottish Budget. After 17 years of incompetence, people are looking for change in Scotland, and the Labour party is promising it. Will the Secretary of State follow the initiative of his Scottish leader, Anas Sarwar, in saying he will reinstate the winter fuel allowance and make representations to the Prime Minister to reconsider other policies, such as the national insurance changes, which are creating instability and uncertainty for the Scottish economy?
Context
The Scottish Government's budget announcement was imminent, and there were expectations of change after 17 years of perceived incompetence.
Ian Murray
I have a lot of respect for the hon. Lady, but this is another instance where the Opposition parties in this Chamber want all the benefits of the Budget, but they do not want to be able to pay for it. We have announced the largest settlement for Scotland in devolution's history: £47.7 billion, which is £4.9 billion extra. The Chancellor delivered £4.9 billion extra in Barnett consequentials alone from this Dispatch Box during the Budget—the SNP voted against it, but will spend it today.
Session: Economic Growth 2024-12-04
View All Questions -->
Women of colour disproportionately experience homicides, sexual assaults, and domestic abuses but are less likely to get necessary support services than white women. The questioner asks the Minister about plans to help these vulnerable groups more effectively.
Context
Data shows that women of colour face higher rates of homicide and sexual assault compared to other ethnicities. Additionally, they are less likely to access support services.
Jess Phillips
Agrees with the need for a strong “by and for” approach, ensuring specialist services are available for black and minority ethnic women and other marginalised groups. The response commits to making this part of the violence against women and girls strategy.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2024-11-13
View All Questions -->
Given the current issues facing my constituents such as rising prices, reduced payments, increased standing charges, and colder temperatures; what concrete steps will the Secretary of State take to work with Ofgem and energy companies for a fairer set of circumstances?
Context
The question arises from concerns about energy price rises, winter fuel payment cuts, higher standing charges, and lower temperatures affecting pensioners in Edinburgh West.
Sarah Jones
We are looking to bring down standing charges. The hon. Lady has mentioned a lot of cases where people are struggling; we appreciate that, and we are doing what we can. The Budget set out how we are going to protect the most vulnerable people and ensure that people are supported in the way they need to be.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-11-12
View All Questions -->
Following the Budget being a major step forward, paving the way for investment in clean power, creating jobs, and delivering energy security; what statement will the Secretary make regarding his departmental responsibilities?
Context
The question follows the announcement of a significant budget and seeks clarity on departmental actions.
Sarah Jones
The Budget was a major step forward, paving the way for investment in clean, home-grown power, creating jobs and delivering energy security. Last week, the National Energy System Operator provided definitive evidence that our clean power mission is achievable and can give us greater energy security and lower energy costs.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-11-12
View All Questions -->
Given the high rates of unreported crimes, especially for rape and sexual assault, is the Lord Chancellor planning to review aggravated offences, particularly misogynistic ones, to ensure women receive proper protection?
Context
The Scottish Government's decision against including misogyny in their Hate Crime and Public Order Act prompts this question.
Alex Davies-Jones
The Government are committed to halving violence against women and girls over ten years. Every Department will look into how they can tackle misogyny, including education about it in schools, streets, homes, workplaces, and online environments.
Session: Domestic Abuse and Violence against Women 2024-11-05
View All Questions -->
What steps is she taking to support survivors of domestic abuse and violence against women through the criminal justice system?
Context
The question arises from the need to provide better support and protection for victims of domestic abuse and violence against women.
Alex Davies-Jones
We are committed to supporting victims and survivors of these abhorrent crimes, including through the £26 million rape and sexual abuse support fund and the funding of independent domestic and sexual violence advocates. Furthermore, we will increase the powers of the Victims' Commissioner to improve accountability when victims' needs are not met.
Session: Domestic Abuse and Violence against Women 2024-11-05
View All Questions -->
What will the Government do to encourage the creation of an environment that fosters new space projects in Scotland, and will the University of Edinburgh be central to this effort?
Context
The Scottish Affairs Committee visited California to learn about how the state encourages new space projects.
Ian Murray
Scotland will be central to the space sector. We will fully back the space sector and have met Orbex and been to Unst in Shetland to visit the spaceport up there. We will fully back this; of course, its potential reaches to infinity and beyond.
Session: Space Sector Scotland 2024-10-30
View All Questions -->
My constituency, like most others, is seeing a great deal of new housing being built, which means more infrastructure, more business and more opportunities for growth. Key to that, however, is access to reliable, high-speed broadband. Given the SNP Government's previous failures to deliver gigabit broadband to every home as promised, can the Minister tell us what discussions are taking place and what consideration is being given to supporting its efficient delivery in Scotland?
Context
The SNP Government's previous failures to deliver gigabit broadband.
Alex Norris
Through Project Gigabit we have a commitment to level up all communities in the United Kingdom, and through the welcome work of my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister we have a commitment to reset relationships with the devolved Administrations. Hopefully, by putting those two together, we will be able to make significant progress.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-10-28
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Fast-Track Visas: Skilled US Citizens
04 February 2026
Responding: Mike Tapp
Main Concerns
['The debate addresses the concerns of skilled US citizens living under a Trump presidency, with over 1,000 anti-LGBTQ incidents reported across 47 states and Washington DC in the past year, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. Many individuals feel unsafe and seek to contribute positively to the UK economy.']
Specific Asks
["Christine Jardine proposes offering fast-track visas for skilled US citizens to live and work in the United Kingdom, believing it would benefit both the individuals seeking refuge and the UK's economy, especially in sectors such as artificial intelligence, cancer research, pharmacology, science, and space."]
Lord Mandelson: Government Response to Humble Address Motion
12 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
US Department of Justice Release of Files 2026-02-02
02 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
As I know right hon. and hon. Members across the House will agree, Jeffrey Epstein was a despicable criminal who committed disgusting crimes and destroyed the lives of countless women and girls. His v...
Business Rates Retail, Hospitality and Leisure 2026-01-19
19 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm that the planned changes to business rates for the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors will not result in crippling rises? Given the significant negative impact these cha...
Digital ID 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm that the mandatory digital ID policy will continue as planned? The MP expresses concern about the policy's cost, effectiveness, and whether it is still necessary given its ev...
Chinese Embassy 2026-01-13
13 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the status of the release of unredacted plans for the proposed Chinese embassy at Royal Mint Court, given concerns about security risks and the proximity to critical communic...
Venezuela 2026-01-05
05 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Puberty Suppressants Trial 2025-12-17
17 December 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the pathways puberty blockers trial will continue, and if so why? The urgency lies in concerns about the safety of physically healthy children involved in the trial. Dr Johns...
US National Security Strategy 2025-12-11
11 December 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm how the Government will update their national security approach in light of the recent United States National Security Strategy? The strategy's implications for Europe, inclu...
St Andrew’s Day and Scottish Affairs 2025-12-11
11 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The hon. Member for Dunfermline and Dollar began by noting the importance of St Andrew’s Day, celebrating Scotland's connection to its patron saint and the qualities that define Scottish society: a ge...
Budget Resolutions 2025-12-01
01 December 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
45.5%
10 of 22 votes
Aye Votes
5
22.7% of votes
No Votes
5
22.7% of votes
Abstentions
12
54.5% 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
VOTED NO
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
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 63 Stand part
Ayes: 348
Noes: 167
Passed
13 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 26
Ayes: 172
Noes: 334
Failed
13 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 9
Ayes: 181
Noes: 335
Failed
13 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 86 stand part
Ayes: 344
Noes: 173
Passed
13 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 25
Ayes: 187
Noes: 351
Failed
13 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 24
Ayes: 184
Noes: 331
Failed
12 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 7
Ayes: 188
Noes: 341
Failed
12 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 185
Noes: 344
Failed
4
PMQs Asked
47
Ministerial Questions Asked
76
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
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
+106% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
1.9
Ministerial Questions
+492% above average
This MP:
47
Average:
7.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-35% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
1.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3114% above average
This MP:
76
Average:
2.4
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
5.1
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.2
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-40% below average
This MP:
45.5
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 Christine Jardine's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.