Ruth Jones
MP for Newport West and Islwyn
Lab
4 Apr 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Prime Minister's Questions
No PMQs questions found for this MP.
The Welsh Affairs Committee took evidence from the chief executive officer and chair of S4C last week, and it was good to hear their plans for the future. What discussions has the Minister had with S4C and other broadcasters to further the development of the Welsh language across Wales and beyond?
Context
The Welsh Affairs Committee has been taking evidence from the leadership of S4C about its future plans.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Anna McMorrin)
I thank my hon. Friend for her question about the importance and sustainability of S4C, which is, crucially, reflected in the BBC charter review, launched in December. I will continue to have those conversations with my colleagues, both here and in the Welsh Government, and with the broadcasters.
Session: Minority Language Broadcasting 2026-01-21
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What assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the UK’s membership of the European convention on human rights on the Belfast agreement? The Good Friday agreement was indeed a proud legacy of the last Labour Government, so does he agree that the reckless approach adopted by Opposition parties towards the ECHR risks undermining the huge progress made since 1998?
Context
The Good Friday agreement is a legacy of the last Labour Government, which includes provisions underpinned by the European convention on human rights. There are concerns about opposition parties advocating leaving the ECHR.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I do agree with my hon. Friend, and it is clear that those advocating leaving the ECHR have not given any serious consideration to the implications for the Good Friday agreement. Indeed, when pressed on that in the summer, the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage) noted that it could take years and years to solve, so that will not be at the forefront of what we do. I would simply say that that is not good enough, and that those who advocate leaving the ECHR need to reflect on what they are arguing for.
Session: European Convention on Human Rights Belfast Agreement 2026-01-07
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of the industrial strategy on advanced manufacturing in South Wales? I welcome the Minister’s response and the additional support for the compound semiconductor cluster in my constituency. What conversations have you had with Welsh Government colleagues on delivering joint objectives of the Welsh manufacturing action plan and UK industrial strategy to attract additional investment and jobs to the Welsh semiconductor cluster?
Context
The question follows the announcement of a new investment zone for Cardiff and Newport, focusing on semiconductors and advanced manufacturing. The industrial strategy aims to lower energy costs and improve grid connections for manufacturers.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Chris McDonald)
I thank my hon. Friend for her work to champion the Welsh semi-conductor cluster, which is vital for our advanced manufacturing sector. My colleague, the Minister for artificial intelligence and online safety—the Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, my hon. Friend the Member for Vale of Glamorgan (Kanishka Narayan)—was in Wales last week, meeting industry leaders and co-chairing the semiconductor advisory panel. Additionally, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Business and Trade recently attended the Wales investment summit. We are keen to attract further investors to the compound semiconductor cluster in south Wales.
Session: Advanced Manufacturing South Wales 2025-12-11
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What conversations is the Secretary of State having with UK and Welsh Government colleagues to ensure that the Welsh compound semiconductor cluster continues growing and creates more well-paid jobs across south Wales?
Context
The Welsh compound semiconductor cluster in Ruth Jones's constituency has attracted over £1 billion investment, supporting around 3,000 jobs. Plans are underway to create another 1,000 jobs.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
I have seen the success of the Welsh compound semiconductor cluster first-hand and, last week, the Chancellor announced £10 million for semiconductor activities in south Wales. This funding will focus on technology central to artificial intelligence and data centres to support innovation, strengthen supply chains and develop skills needed for future growth. Two weeks ago, I was at Cardiff University—a key partner for the cluster—to announce the south Wales AI growth zone, which will create more than 5,000 new jobs.
Session: 2025 Budget 2025-12-03
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I welcome the Government’s new strategy on replacing animals in science, which was published yesterday. Will the Secretary of State commit to enshrining the targets in the strategy in law, so that industry, campaigners and the wider public have the certainty they need that this Government will move as fast as possible to end unnecessary animal testing?
Context
The Government has published a new strategy to replace animals in scientific research, aiming for rapid implementation.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Liz Kendall)
I am very proud of the fact that we have published the strategy, delivering on one of our crucial manifesto commitments. My hon. Friend can rest assured that patience is not one of my greatest virtues, and I want to see it implemented and delivered as quickly as possible.
Session: Life Sciences Economic Growth 2025-11-12
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Will the Secretary of State join me in welcoming the fantastic progress that has already been made in the steel industry and in supply chains all across Wales?
Context
The MP welcomed the £500 million announced for the steel industry in the spending review, which has already begun construction on an electric arc furnace.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
I thank the Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee for her question. Monday was a really significant day for Welsh steelmaking. I was at the groundbreaking ceremony to begin construction of the electric arc furnace, which will be one of the largest in the world, securing 5,000 jobs and the future of steelmaking in Port Talbot for years to come.
Session: Spending Review 2025 2025-07-16
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I welcome the announcement in the spending review that railway projects in Wales, including five new stations east of Cardiff, will receive an extra £445 million in funding over the next decade. Will the Chancellor provide more detail as to how the money will be specifically allocated and when work will begin?
Context
Following up on the Chancellor's statement about increased transport infrastructure funding, Ruth Jones questioned specific details of the announced railway project funds for Wales.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
It was a pleasure to be in Cardiff just after the spending review to look at the difference made by the investment that the Labour Government are putting into transport in Wales. The spending review and the infrastructure strategy recognised Wales’s long-term infrastructure needs and how they have been neglected for too long by the Tory party. We delivered at least £445 million for rail enhancements, which provides funding for continuing to develop and deliver the stations identified in the Burns review, including Newport West and Somerton. Plans for future rail investment in Wales will be made in close consultation with the Welsh Government and through engagement with the Wales Rail Board.
Session: Transport Infrastructure Funding 2025-07-01
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What steps is the Secretary of State taking with other Cabinet colleagues to ensure that tidal plays a prominent role in the transition to clean energy?
Context
Wales has a significant tidal range potential which promises green growth and industrial employment. The Severn Estuary Commission has completed its recommendations on tidal lagoons.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Dame Nia Griffith)
The Government remain open to well-developed proposals for harnessing tidal range energy. The National Energy System Operator has launched a research innovation project to model the impacts and value of tidal range, with a report expected tomorrow.
Session: Clean Energy Wales 2025-06-11
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In my constituency of Newport West and Islwyn, we have ever-expanding semiconductor facilities and data centres. The primary mission of this Government is growth, but that growth could be stifled if there is not sufficient grid capacity alongside these exciting innovations. What is the Minister doing to make sure that south Wales has sufficient grid capacity to support these advances and facilitate much-needed growth?
Context
There is a need to ensure that the existing grid can support future growth projects such as semiconductor facilities and data centers.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Michael Shanks)
My hon. Friend makes a very important point. Although we are clearly on the sprint to deliver clean power by 2030, demand for electricity in this country is likely to double by 2050. Our reforms around connection to the grid are important—they will make sure that there is space for demand projects, such as data centres, to connect—but so is building the grid for the future, so that we have capacity in our network to deliver on our growth aspirations.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-02-04
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I welcome the recent announcement on the creation of artificial intelligence growth zones across the UK, which will turbocharge growth and boost living standards. As part of that AI development, Vantage Data Centres has plans to invest over £12 billion across the UK, creating at least 11,000 jobs, including in my constituency. Will the Secretary of State speak to her colleagues around the Cabinet table and work with me and others to develop an AI growth zone for south Wales to secure the economic growth that we so desperately need?
Context
The MP welcomed the announcement on creating AI growth zones across the UK, which will create jobs and boost living standards. She specifically referenced Vantage Data Centres' plans to invest over £12 billion.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
I am glad that my hon. Friend raised that. She will know that the Government are fully committed to harnessing AI to improve productivity and efficiency, and to boost economic growth. I was pleased to hear the Chancellor talking about AI growth zones in her speech. Like my hon. Friend, I want to ensure that Wales maximises AI opportunities. I will be happy to discuss that further with her.
Session: Economic Growth 2025-01-29
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I welcome today’s announcement. Given that young people’s experiences of homelessness differ considerably from those of other age groups across all countries in the UK, will the Minister commit to addressing their needs specifically in the homelessness strategy that is coming up?
Context
Funding for homelessness services in England is increasing next year by £233 million, taking the total to a record £1 billion. Today, emergency winter pressures funding has been tripled from £10 million to £30 million.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Rushanara Ali)
My hon. Friend makes a really important point about the impact on children and young people. It is an absolute scandal that nearly 160,000 children are in temporary accommodation, and we are determined to ensure that the Government’s long-term strategy addresses the underlying issues affecting youth homelessness. We are working with mayors, councils and key stakeholders, including in the charitable sector, to get us back on track to ending homelessness.
Session: Homelessness 2025-01-20
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Over the past two years alone, Newport cathedral has reclaimed over £87,000 under the listed places of worship scheme. When it soon becomes necessary to repair the tower, at an estimated cost of £1.1 million, a further £220,000 in tax will be added to that bill, and if that cannot be reclaimed the project will be delayed even further. The cathedral provides crucial support to schools, charities, refugees and the homeless. Does my hon. Friend recognise the importance of the scheme not only in saving significant heritage treasures, but in preserving those vital services?
Context
Newport cathedral has reclaimed over £87,000 under the listed places of worship scheme and needs further funds for tower repairs.
Marsha De Cordova
I absolutely recognise the importance of the scheme and the difference that the cathedral’s social impact projects are making in her community. I would be very happy to put my hon. Friend in touch with the director of property strategy for the Church in Wales, so that they can discuss this issue and, I hope, lobby together to ensure—to say it once again—that the scheme is renewed.
Session: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme 2025-01-16
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What are the Secretary of State and the Wales Office doing to ensure that the contracts are signed, sealed and delivered as quickly as possible?
Context
The question is prompted by a roundtable discussion on the readiness of floating offshore wind projects in the Celtic sea, which are expected to bring significant benefits.
Jo Stevens
I thank my hon. Friend for her question. We know that floating offshore wind will be critical to delivering our clean energy mission, and Wales has a huge part to play in that. The UK Government, jointly with the Welsh Government, recognise these opportunities and what they present for Wales, and we are determined to take full advantage of them. My colleagues in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero are working to move the process forward as quickly as possible, noting the need for certainty and a tight timetable so that we can get on with it.
Session: Clean Energy Projects 2024-12-11
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What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on support for clean energy projects in Wales?
Context
The question is prompted by recent discussions on support for clean energy projects specifically in Wales.
Jo Stevens
This Government are supporting clean energy projects in Wales. Seven tidal, solar and onshore wind projects were successful in the recent contracts for difference round, and we have given the Celtic and Anglesey freeports the green light, which will enable green industries to grow, creating new jobs. I am also delighted that 13 projects have been successful in the first round of the Crown Estate's £50 million supply chain accelerator fund, which will support the delivery of floating offshore wind in the Celtic sea.
Session: Clean Energy Projects 2024-12-11
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Will the Secretary of State expand on how she will ensure that patients on both sides of the border get access to the best healthcare possible in a timely manner? The new partnership represents an opportunity for sharing best practices and reducing NHS waiting lists.
Context
Welcoming the new partnership, Ruth Jones inquires about the specifics of cross-border healthcare collaboration to reduce NHS waiting lists.
Jo Stevens
Both Governments are working collaboratively, providing a £1.75 billion boost to the Welsh Government for public services like the NHS and announcing £28 million to cut waiting times. They share best practices and consider more cross-border arrangements where capacity allows. A ministerial advisory group on NHS performance has been established.
Session: Healthcare Collaboration 2024-11-06
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What discussions she is having with the Welsh Government on collaborative efforts to improve healthcare in England and Wales. Last week's spending review provided additional funding for the Welsh Government, but there are concerns about how this will impact healthcare access and waiting lists.
Context
Discussions on collaborative efforts to improve healthcare in both countries.
Jo Stevens
Cutting waiting lists is a top priority for both Governments. Last week's spending review provided the Welsh Government with an additional £1.7 billion for 2025-26, allowing them to spend more on public services like the NHS. Collaboration with ministerial colleagues in both governments aims to drive down waiting lists.
Session: Healthcare Collaboration 2024-11-06
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Alan Petersen is a senior pharmacist in my constituency. He tells me that pharmacies have experienced high volatility in drugs pricing and big increases in bills in recent years. At the same time, they are expected to do far more in direct consultation with the public. Given the UK Government's jurisdiction over funding dispensing services in England and Wales, when do they plan to review pharmacy funding?
Context
A senior pharmacist in Ruth Jones' constituency reported high volatility in drug pricing and increased bills, while also expecting more public consultation.
Stephen Kinnock
Obviously, health is a devolved matter and funding for pharmacies in Wales is the responsibility of the Welsh Government. Nevertheless, I pay tribute to the Welsh Government for securing a deal with pharmacies in Wales in line with DDRB—the review body on doctors' and dentists' remuneration—pay recommendations. I know that arrangements in England affect matters in Wales and I am working as a matter of urgency to conclude the consultation on the community pharmacy contractual framework.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-10-15
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Under an agreement inherited from the last Government, a system remains in place allowing for the licensing of trail hunting on land owned by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation. It is welcome news that that licence issuing has been paused while the agreement is under ministerial review, but in the light of the widespread recognition that trail hunting is often a smokescreen for illegal hunting, will the Minister meet me and other concerned MPs to discuss the permanent revocation of that agreement, in line with the Government's manifesto ban on trail hunting?
Context
A licence agreement inherited from the previous Government allows for trail hunting on MOD land. The MP seeks a permanent revocation of this agreement, citing concerns over illegal hunting.
Luke Pollard
I am grateful to my hon. Friend—she and I have campaigned on many similar issues for quite some time. I would like to make it clear that no licences to trail hunt on Ministry of Defence land have been granted for the 2024-25 hunting season. The Department is considering its position alongside other Government Departments, and we hope to have an update soon, but I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend in the meantime.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-10-14
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Under the previous Government, the transition board met six times and formed two sub-committees, but did not distribute a single penny of the funding that was promised to support businesses and workers in south Wales. Will the Secretary of State provide an assessment of how the transition board has changed under her leadership?
Context
The MP notes the lack of funding distribution under previous government arrangements. She asks for an assessment of how the transition board has changed under current leadership.
Jo Stevens
I congratulate my hon. Friend on her election as Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee, and I look forward to engaging with her and her colleagues as they take on their important work. As I set out, we have released £13.5 million as the first tranche of funding from the transition board. That has changed the situation radically from discussion to delivery. That is what we promised; that is what we have delivered.
Session: Steel Industry 2024-09-11
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Persecution of Christians
08 April 2025
Responding: Stephen Doughty
Main Concerns
['Around the world, Christians face persecution, torture, killings, job refusals, imprisonments without recourse, and home removals. In 2024, Open Doors reported that almost 5,000 believers worldwide were killed for their faith, with Nigeria leading at over 1,000 deaths. Almost half a million Christians have been forced from their homes into hiding or exile, mostly due to religious extremism and Marxist regimes.']
Specific Asks
['Advocate on behalf of persecuted Christians and ensure they receive fundamental freedoms that many in democratic societies take for granted.']
Government Support for the RSPCA
09 October 2024
Responding: Daniel Zeichner
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member Ruth Jones is concerned about the challenges facing animal welfare due to climate change, habitat loss, cost of living, and the pandemic. She highlights the RSPCA's role in advocating for animals, noting that it was instrumental in securing laws like the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Concerns include extreme designer dog breeding, inadequate regulation on breeding pets with welfare issues, and outdated wildlife legislation. Jones also mentions ongoing issues such as animal testing and the need to clarify regulations around brachycephalic dogs."]
Specific Asks
['Jones asks for a timetable from the Minister regarding the establishment of a strategic advisory board aimed at phasing out animals used in scientific research. She also requests that the Government publish results from the consultation on labelling methods of production for animal products and sets out a timeline for introducing such a scheme.']
Finance (No. 2) Bill 2026-01-12
12 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Minister opened the debate on the Finance (No. 2) Bill, emphasising that the Labour Government's second Budget was a choice between austerity and decline or investment and renewal, opting for the ...
Ajax Armoured Vehicle 2025-12-08
08 December 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the latest developments concerning Ajax and other Army vehicles, particularly in light of the reported noise and vibration symptoms experienced by soldiers during Exercise Ti...
Budget Resolutions 2025-12-02
02 December 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Official Secrets Act Case Witness Statements 2025-10-16
16 October 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the three witness statements in relation to an alleged breach of the Official Secrets Act on behalf of China have been published unredacted? What are the implications for nat...
Welfare Reform 2025-06-30
30 June 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Gaza UK Assessment 2025-05-14
14 May 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the UK's assessment on the risk of genocide in Gaza? Adrian Ramsay is asking about the likelihood of genocide based on recent events, including the humanitarian crisis and ai...
Crime and Policing Bill 2025-03-10
10 March 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
St David’s Day and Welsh Affairs 2025-02-27
27 February 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
Welsh MP Ruth Jones moved the debate on St David's Day and Welsh affairs. She paid tribute to her predecessor Stephen Crabb for fostering a collegiate atmosphere, thanked the Clerks team, highlighted ...
Drones High-security Prisons 2025-01-14
14 January 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm if she will make a statement on the national security risk of drones being used to deliver weapons to high-security prisons, given that organised crime gangs can now deliver ...
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill
29 November 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill would give terminally ill adults the choice to end their life under stringent criteria, which include two medical professionals and a High Court judge's approval. Kim highlights the need for ...
Attendance
100.0%
22 of 22 votes
Aye Votes
9
40.9% of votes
No Votes
13
59.1% of votes
Abstentions
0
0.0% 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
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
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 AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 63 Stand part
Ayes: 348
Noes: 167
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 26
Ayes: 172
Noes: 334
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 9
Ayes: 181
Noes: 335
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 86 stand part
Ayes: 344
Noes: 173
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 25
Ayes: 187
Noes: 351
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 24
Ayes: 184
Noes: 331
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 7
Ayes: 188
Noes: 341
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 185
Noes: 344
Failed
0
PMQs Asked
19
Ministerial Questions Asked
13
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
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
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
1.9
Ministerial Questions
+139% above average
This MP:
19
Average:
7.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+30% above average
This MP:
2
Average:
1.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+450% above average
This MP:
13
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 (%)
+32% above average
This MP:
100.0
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 Ruth Jones's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.