Jayne Kirkham
MP for Truro and Falmouth
Labour (Co-op)
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
In Cornwall we are developing a strategy to provide housing at sites such as Pydar in my constituency, which needs support from Homes England. Will the Prime Minister arrange for us to meet the Housing Minister at our Homes Cornwall launch next month, to accelerate discussions on a strategic partnership for Cornwall so that we can build the right homes in the right places for local people?
Context
The number of households in temporary accommodation in Cornwall has increased by 265% over five years, prompting the need for investment in social and affordable housing.
The Prime Minister
I know that the Housing Minister will be delighted to meet my hon. Friend to help unlock new homes for her constituents. We are working closely with local authorities through our small sites aggregator to build new affordable homes on brownfield sites.
Assessment
Did not commit to arranging a specific meeting with the Housing Minister.
Did Not Address The Specific Request For A Meeting
Session: PMQs 2025-10-22
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I congratulate Truro City football club on their remarkable journey from homelessness to league champions in one season. Cornwall's abundant renewable energy sources offer significant opportunities for investment and growth. Confirm that the recent solar panel installation at Falmouth community hospital is just the beginning of further investments planned by GB Energy in Cornwall.
Context
Cornwall has vast natural resources for onshore and offshore wind, geothermal, and tidal power. There are opportunities for clean energy investments to enhance local economic development and job creation.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I extend my congratulations to Truro City football club for their impressive achievement. Clean energy investments are an integral part of our clean power plan, and this project at Falmouth community hospital is indeed just the start. We aim to further empower 200 schools and many NHS sites across the country with GB Energy’s solar projects, generating significant savings and contributing positively to local communities.
Session: PMQs 2025-04-30
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My constituent James Henderson was killed last year along with other aid workers when bringing humanitarian aid into Gaza. Could the Prime Minister confirm he is doing everything possible to ensure aid, power, and supplies are safely returned to Gaza? Also, can he confirm a full investigation into Jim's death will be completed for appropriate action?
Context
One year ago, James Henderson from World Central Kitchen was killed while delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. His family seeks confirmation that the government is taking all possible steps to ensure safe return of aid and supplies.
The Prime Minister
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this appalling incident, and our thoughts remain with the families of Jim, John Chapman and James Kirby. Attacks on aid workers are never justified. The families deserve justice, and we are pressing the Israeli Government to accelerate their investigation, including into whether criminal proceedings should be initiated. Israel must stop blocking aid to Gaza, the hostages must be released, and we must have an urgent resumption of the ceasefire.
Session: PMQs 2025-04-02
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This Government have already invested millions in the future of Cornish industries but they are held back by poor transport links. Our rail link is struggling, and our airport is fragile. Will the Secretary of State confirm that she is committed to transport improvement in Cornwall through Devon?
Context
Cornwall's economic growth is hindered by poor transport links, including rail and airport.
Heidi Alexander
My hon. Friend makes a really important point. I am due to meet her and colleagues soon to discuss the resilience of the rail network, among other matters.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-02-12
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Will the Minister look closely at proposals for using floating offshore wind to power critical minerals processing plants?
Context
Proposals exist to use floating offshore wind power for critical minerals processing in Cornwall.
Chris McDonald
The Government will work with constituents in Truro and Falmouth on realising opportunities where investment in energy and industry can reduce costs for both parts of the supply chain, creating economic opportunities.
Session: Businesses Cost of Energy 2026-02-10
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Many businesses I have spoken to are frustrated about the difficulty of moving people, goods and equipment to Europe. Fugro and Pendennis yachts have experienced issues securing visas for staff on short-term offshore projects. What steps can the Minister take with colleagues at the Home Office to ensure some barriers are reduced?
Context
Following a meeting with Watson-Marlow, an organization in her constituency, Jayne Kirkham raised concerns about the difficulties faced by businesses post-Brexit.
Chris Bryant (Minister of State, Department for Business and Trade)
We need to do better on addressing issues with visas and business mobility that the Home Office and the Department are discussing with our European allies. We also need to get to a place where we have mutual recognition of professional qualifications so that people can transact their business more effectively.
Session: Encouraging Exports 2026-01-29
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In response to Storm Goretti, Cornwall alone lost over 1,000 trees and thousands were without power and water. It exposed vulnerabilities in communications infrastructure in rural areas. Would the Minister lead discussions with Science, Innovation and Technology Ministers on how to shore up communications during extreme weather events?
Context
Storm Goretti tested the resilience of rural and coastal Britain, causing significant damage and disruption.
Dan Jarvis (Minister of State, Cabinet Office)
The Minister agrees that the situation needs attention. He will do so by giving careful consideration to the points raised about strengthening communications during extreme weather events.
Session: Emergencies Rural and Coastal Areas 2026-01-22
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I am very pleased to hear that he has already spoken to Go South West, which is working to fill the gaps left by our private bus provider’s recently withdrawn services. Those buses were vital for getting students to university and our two large further education colleges, because it can take hours to get to college and apprenticeship placements in Cornwall. I therefore ask the Minister if I could join the meeting with my hon. Friend the Member for Camborne and Redruth (Perran Moon) that he agreed to earlier, particularly to discuss buses to get those aged 16 and over to school and further education in Cornwall.
Context
The MP is concerned about the withdrawal of private bus services in Cornwall, which are vital for students to reach universities and further education colleges. The situation has left a gap that Go South West is working to fill.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
Access to opportunity, including education, is of course a top priority for this Government. Our Bus Services Act 2025 and the multi-year funding allocations, including over £30 million for Cornwall, will help improve vital connections. I very much welcome the opportunity to meet my hon. Friend, which I believe will be next week.
Session: Local Transport Authority Funding Settlements Buses 2026-01-08
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Merry Christmas to everybody in the Chamber and beyond. I was very proud to stand on a manifesto that committed to end cruel practices such as puppy smuggling and to phase out animal testing and ban fur imports. Is the Secretary of State able to update the House with a little more detail on the progress of the animal welfare strategy and the dates when we may expect the legislation to follow?
Context
The Labour party committed to ending cruel practices such as puppy smuggling, phasing out animal testing, and banning fur imports.
Emma Reynolds (Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
I am pleased to confirm that the animal welfare strategy will be published before Christmas, and I will have more to say about that shortly in the House. The strategy will set out our priorities until 2030 and take forward the manifesto commitments on which Government Members stood.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-12-18
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I welcome the Chancellor’s announcement of the £30 million Kernow industrial fund, and the fantastic critical minerals strategy. With the pipeline of floating offshore wind projects in the Celtic sea, it is vital that we invest in Cornish supply chains and infrastructure. However, training provider capacity, the need to upgrade infrastructure such as ports in advance of flow coming on line, and the delay in getting the floating offshore wind test and demo models in the Celtic sea up and running, is hampering progress. Will the Minister please outline how these issues will be addressed?
Context
The Minister announced a £30 million Kernow industrial fund, and there is a pipeline of floating offshore wind projects in the Celtic Sea. The constituency has brilliant supply businesses that can use the Crown Estate and GB Energy accelerator plans.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Chris McDonald)
I thank my hon. Friend for her question, and for so kindly hosting me on a trip to Falmouth port, where I saw for myself the great potential in her constituency for critical minerals and floating offshore wind. I recognise the skills issue, and the Government are supporting the sector through the Government’s clean energy jobs plan and another £180 million for demonstration projects.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-12-11
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I have very vulnerable constituents who have raised concerns about the draft EHRC guidance on transgender people. Many are scared and fear rising transphobia and discrimination. What steps is she taking to ensure that we protect the rights and dignity of everyone in society, and support the groups that work with those vulnerable trans people?
Context
Concerns raised by constituents about the draft code of practice issued by the Equality and Human Rights Commission, specifically regarding rising transphobia and discrimination.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
I am deeply sorry to hear about my hon. Friend’s constituents. On the wider issue she raises, it is of course vital that everyone, including trans people, can live free from harassment and discrimination, and can access appropriate services. That is why we are carefully considering the EHRC’s draft updated code and making sure the proper processes are followed. Of course, the Equality Act upholds safeguards for trans people, and we are committed to it.
Session: Transgender People Safe Spaces 2025-12-10
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Cornwall Marine Network in my constituency is a small and medium-sized enterprise members association that provides training and apprenticeship support. It recently celebrated providing 5,000 new jobs and apprenticeships. It will welcome the Government’s youth guarantee and the news that SMEs will not have to pay for apprenticeship training for under-25s. Will the Minister confirm how this Government will increase the capacity of such training providers?
Pat McFadden
I warmly commend my hon. Friend and the company she mentions. One of the apprenticeship reforms that we have introduced involves SMEs no longer having to pay for apprenticeship training for under-25s, which will help increase capacity.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-12-08
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The port of Falmouth has benefited from Government money for plug-in power, but it has been held back by the grid. The port is also trying to redevelop and expand, so that it can service the floating offshore wind sector, and bring in freight on the freight line that we lost 15 years ago. Will the Minister support the port of Falmouth in those aims, and will he visit?
Context
The Port of Falmouth has benefited from Government money for plug-in power but is held back by grid capacity issues. It aims to redevelop and expand to service the floating offshore wind sector.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Keir Mather)
My hon. Friend is a champion for the port of Falmouth. I applaud the work that it is doing to achieve decarbonisation. It is incumbent on me to work with Ofgem and my departmental colleagues in DESNZ to ensure that we speed up the improvement of port capacity and connection to the national grid. I would be very happy to visit that port in the future to explore its fantastic work.
Session: Maritime Sector Decarbonisation 2025-11-20
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Mainstream schools in my constituency are taking steps to provide their own inclusive, in-house SEND provision. Penair secondary school has been creating a forest school on its land, and some of my heads have expressed their desire to create area resource base units in their schools. Does the Minister agree that such types of mainstream, inclusive provision could provide a way forward, and will she come down to Cornwall, maybe when she meets us, to see it?
Context
Mainstream schools in the constituency are taking steps to provide inclusive, in-house special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision, such as setting up a forest school or creating area resource base units.
Georgia Gould
I have seen amazing examples of how this kind of provision can bring children back into mainstream classrooms and cause them to start to enjoy school and achieve again. I would be very happy to meet my hon. Friend and visit the school that has been set up.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-10-20
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The “New life for city buildings” project in Truro is breathing new life into empty high street buildings and redeveloping them. I would love for the Minister to be able to see this for himself, so will he consider coming to Truro and attending our growth summit on 18 September?
Context
There is a project in Truro aimed at revitalizing high street buildings.
Alex Norris
I do not have my diary for 18 September in front of me, but I do owe my hon. Friend a visit, and I will definitely make such a visit.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-07-14
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What discussions has she had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of the proposed increase to the standard qualifying period for settlement on NHS staffing levels? I have been contacted by constituents working in health and social care who are concerned about the proposed changes. Dr Mohamed Abdelazim works as a doctor at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust and has not quite completed his five-year eligibility period, stating that the policy will directly and severely impact him and hundreds of other frontline workers. Will the proposed increase to 10 years impact my constituents retrospectively, and might they be able to reduce this period based on their contributions?
Context
Constituents working in health and social care in Truro and Falmouth have expressed concerns about the proposed changes to the standard qualifying period for settlement. Dr Mohamed Abdelazim, a doctor at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, has not completed his five-year eligibility period and fears that the policy will severely impact him.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Seema Malhotra)
I understand the concerns raised by my hon. Friend’s constituents about the impact of the proposals. They are important changes, which is why we will consult on the proposals and lay out more details later in the year, including on any transitional arrangements. We understand the importance of clarity and fairness for those already contributing to public services, and we will provide further details in due course.
Session: Qualifying Period for Settlement Impact on NHS Staffing 2025-07-07
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Both St Probus and St Grace need expensive works to remain watertight. With the new annual cap and potential ending of the listed places of worship grant scheme next year, what alternative support will be available?
Context
The £25,000 cap on the grant scheme affects churches needing extensive work, like St Probus and St Grace in Truro and Falmouth.
Marsha De Cordova
While the Church Commissioners have a building emissions fund and other grants are available through the heritage lottery, I will write to my hon. Friend about additional support that might be applicable. Lobbying DCMS is also advised for future scheme clarity.
Session: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme 2025-07-03
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As one of the most deprived regions of northern Europe, Cornwall benefited from objective 1 structural and sustained prosperity fund funding. Can the Minister confirm that, under this Government, Cornwall will not lose out on funding for economic growth and the investment that our communities deserve?
Context
The MP noted Cornwall’s status as one of the most deprived regions of northern Europe, previously benefiting from objective 1 structural and sustained prosperity fund funding.
Emma Reynolds (Economic Secretary to the Treasury)
We are supporting growth across the country, and we will publish further details of how we will do that in the coming weeks.
Session: Economic Growth Rural Areas 2025-07-01
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Last year, Dr Mohammed Mohsen was offered a position in the acute medicine department at Royal Cornwall hospital in my constituency. He was due to start that role last year, but due to the ongoing conflict and travel restrictions in Gaza, he has been unable to travel to the UK. Would the Minister meet me to consider his case, as he requires urgent assistance?
Context
Dr Mohammed Mohsen was offered a position at Royal Cornwall hospital but has been unable to travel due to ongoing conflict and travel restrictions in Gaza.
Seema Malhotra (Secretary of State for the Home Department)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter, and I am very happy to meet her. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is working to ensure that those who need to leave Gaza, and are able and eligible to do so, are supported in that. I am very happy to look at this matter with my hon. Friend.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-06-02
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Cornwall has a thriving maritime sector, particularly in Falmouth, that is well-served by training establishments such as Cornwall Marine Network and Falmouth marine school, as well as leading apprenticeship programmes across Falmouth. Much of that centres around our Port of Falmouth. Will the Ports Minister meet me and officials from the Treasury to ensure that Government support reaches Falmouth port and that Cornwall can take advantage of the new green jobs that will be provided by the port’s upgrade?
Context
Cornwall has a thriving maritime sector, particularly around the Port of Falmouth. Training establishments like the Cornwall Marine Network and Falmouth marine school support this industry.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mike Kane)
My hon. Friend is a fierce advocate for the maritime community in her constituency. This Government are committed to unlocking investment in UK ports, and I was delighted by the announcement just yesterday by LS Eco Advanced Cables that it will be investing £1 billion into the Port of Tyne, which will be the first of many such investments over the months and years ahead. We are streamlining regulatory and planning processes, updating our national policy statement for ports, which is long overdue, and we will make targeted investments through the national wealth fund. I would be delighted to meet my hon. Friend to discuss that.
Session: Maritime Sector 2025-05-15
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I wish to add my voice as an MP from Cornwall to say that some of the actions the Government have taken so far on second homes have been really helpful. The Renters’ Rights Bill will help with those evictions when people are flipping their houses. I also ask that we look at the loophole between council tax and business rates, and at the registration or licensing scheme on second homes, which the Government will hopefully bring in soon.
Context
The Renters’ Rights Bill is seen as a step towards helping those evicted due to the flipping of properties into short-term lets. MP Jayne Kirkham asks for further action on loopholes between council tax and business rates, and wants clarification on the registration or licensing scheme on second homes.
James Murray (Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury)
I appreciate the concerns that second home owners may move to the business rates system. I emphasise that there are requirements that must be met before properties can be assessed for business rates. Those have recently been strengthened, but we will keep them under review.
Session: Second Homes 2025-04-08
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I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. As a new Member, I was very lucky to have a restoration and renewal tour. My question was more about how many MPs and Lords, since the change in Government, have been able to have a look round and have some information about the plans going ahead, and is there any idea of the timeframe?
Context
The restoration and renewal programme has been engaging extensively with Members of both Houses, including briefings, engagement stands, tours and events. There is a high turnover of MPs following the general election.
Nick Smith
So far there have been about 150 interactions with MPs in this Parliament, including 85 with new Members elected in 2024. Information about the three restoration and renewal options are expected to be published later this year, allowing Members to decide on the preferred way forward.
Session: Restoration and Renewal Programme 2025-04-03
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Gaie Delap, the mother of a constituent of mine, was recalled to prison just before Christmas, despite complying with her curfew conditions, because the Government’s electronic monitoring services contractor could not fulfil its contract and find a tag to fit a frail 78-year-old woman. Can the Minister and the Secretary of State help to find a solution so that Gaie Delap can be released on her curfew, and so that women are not disadvantaged by the failings of the contractor’s electronic monitoring system?
Context
The MP highlights a specific case of an elderly woman who was recalled to prison due to technical issues with her electronic monitoring system.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Sir Nicholas Dakin)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter. In this case the court’s decision was to impose a prison sentence, and neither Ministers nor officials can intervene in sentences passed down by our independent courts. I understand the frustrations and can assure the House that we are working hard to find alternative approaches to ensure a secure resolution to this issue.
Session: Support for Female Offenders 2025-01-28
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I am so pleased to hear about the national procurement policy statement next month. As well as encouraging buying British, there are huge opportunities to use procurement to encourage growth and local supply chains, such as in floating offshore wind in Cornwall, as well as in other industries. Will the Minister confirm that there will be a bold procurement policy that will ensure economic growth in every corner of our country, even as far down as Cornwall?
Context
The MP is pleased with the upcoming national procurement policy statement and highlights opportunities for economic growth in Cornwall through public procurement.
Georgia Gould (Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
Yesterday, I had a conversation with my hon. Friend who explained the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises for growth in Truro and Falmouth. Many small businesses have expressed that it can be too complex and slow to bid for Government contracts, sometimes coming out too late or preventing them from getting on the playing field. We have listened carefully to these concerns, and we will bring forward an NPPS that delivers for SMEs.
Session: Public Procurement Reform 2025-01-23
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We have a number of schemes for social housing in Cornwall that rely on the affordable homes programme that ends in 2026. Can the Secretary of State confirm that there will not be a gap in the provision of funding so that the provision of those homes can continue?
Context
The MP is concerned about the end of the affordable homes programme in 2026, which provides funds for social housing schemes.
Angela Rayner (Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government)
We have set out another £500 million for the affordable homes programme and we will set out further requirements as we get to the spending review.
Session: House Building Targets 2025-01-20
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I have a number of crucial small venues in my constituency, including the Cornish Bank, the Chintz Bar, the Old Bakery and the Princess Pavilion, to name just a few. They are vital for the cultural ecosystem of Cornwall; they foster new talent and bring bands from outside the county down to us. I am pleased to hear that the Minister is considering a scheme in which larger venues contribute part of their takings to smaller venues. He said it would be voluntary, but if that did not work, would he consider a mandatory scheme, and what would be the timeline? Can he confirm that the business rates scheme will be formulated to support small venues from 01 April 2026?
Context
The MP highlighted several crucial small venues in her constituency that are vital for the cultural ecosystem, fostering new talent and attracting bands from outside Cornwall. She raised concerns about the sustainability of these venues.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism (Chris Bryant)
If the voluntary scheme does not work, we would consider making it statutory. We are very hopeful that a voluntary scheme will be up and running soon as I have met with industry representatives who are moving in this direction. Regarding business rates relief, any business with a rateable value of less than £500,000 is already receiving 40% relief, and we will provide an even better deal next year for businesses under the same threshold.
Session: Small Music Venues 2025-01-16
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Could the Secretary of State update the House on what recent discussions he has had with the Executive about steps to increase revenue, in order to help to deliver longer-term financial sustainability and grow the economy in Northern Ireland?
Context
The House seeks updates on discussions regarding revenue generation to support longer-term financial sustainability in Northern Ireland.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I have had a number of discussions with the Executive on that subject, and I am pleased to see that the draft budget for next year contains a plan to raise further revenue to meet the £113 million requirement that was part of the budget restoration agreement. It is really important that the Executive raise additional funds to meet the challenges of improving public services.
Session: Economic Growth 2025-01-15
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Will the Minister agree to meet me to discuss the figures for the incidence of blood cancers and sarcomas in veterans and current service personnel who have crewed particular military helicopters?
Context
The MP asks about the figures for the incidence of blood cancers and sarcomas in veterans and current service personnel who have crewed particular military helicopters.
Al Carns
Given the concerns around exposure to exhaust fumes and the importance that we place on safety, the MOD is this month initiating the testing of the exhaust emissions of in-service helicopters to ensure that we are meeting our duty of care for personnel. Nevertheless, I would also like to meet my hon. Friend to discuss the issue further.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-01-06
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Given her concern about kick-starting floating offshore wind in the Celtic sea, will she confirm that she is working with the wealth fund on a strategy and speedy investment in local ports and supply chains?
Context
The questioner highlights the need for coordinated infrastructure development in coastal areas like Falmouth to support floating offshore wind.
Sarah Jones
My hon. Friend is a great champion for her area, and we have talked about the opportunities of Falmouth and the surrounding areas previously, and I am sure we will do so again. For too long, our coastal areas have lacked the jobs and opportunities they deserve, and we are determined to change that.
Session: National Wealth Fund Opportunities for Industry 2024-12-17
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How can the Minister help those small and medium-sized bus companies to be energy efficient, with hydrogen buses for example, thereby gaining franchises?
Context
Concern for small and medium-sized local bus companies wanting to be energy-efficient to participate in franchises.
Lilian Greenwood
Putting buses at the heart of our policies increases ridership opportunities for local manufacturers and operators. However, transport matters are devolved in Strangford's constituency.
Session: Bus Franchising 2024-11-21
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Whether she is taking steps to support the participation of small and medium-sized local bus operators in bus franchising schemes. We have strong local SMEs providing flexible services in Falmouth. Will the Minister confirm support for this model when updating guidance?
Context
Inquiry into steps taken to support small and medium-sized local bus operators in participating in bus franchising schemes.
Lilian Greenwood
Legislation on bus franchising requires local authorities to consider small and medium-sized enterprises. We are developing different models, including those requiring less financial commitment. Our transformative buses Bill aims to give more options to local communities, providing opportunities for all operators, including SMEs.
Session: Bus Franchising 2024-11-21
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We had a very successful all-party group meeting last week on floating offshore wind in the Celtic sea. The Minister is supportive; will he consider mechanisms such as ringfencing contracts for difference and investment in ports to kickstart the investment in the Celtic sea?
Context
A successful all-party group meeting discussed the potential of the Celtic sea in green energy transition.
Michael Shanks
My hon. Friend is right about the potential of the Celtic sea; I will be discussing this tomorrow at a green energy conference and we are looking to bring manufacturing jobs in the supply chain to this country, including through our clean industry bonus.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-11-12
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Can measures be considered to assist with delayed rape and sexual offences cases at Truro Crown Court?
Context
Truro Crown Court has faced a temporary cut to its sitting days. Delayed rape and sexual offences cases have caused concern.
Heidi Alexander
As my hon. Friend will know, we are doing everything we can to bear down on the Crown court caseload, including extending magistrates' sentencing powers. The Budget also confirmed 106,500 sitting days for this year.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-11-05
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My constituency has some brilliant further education colleges but some students struggle with repeated retakes. Will the Minister consider how the process could be done better so that these students do not feel like failures?
Context
Some students in Truro and Falmouth struggle with repeated retakes of GCSE and functional skills maths and English, leading to feelings of failure.
Janet Daby
The Department considers level 2 English and maths essential, requiring those without qualifications to continue studying. The independent curriculum and assessment review is looking at support for students lacking these qualifications.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-11-04
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Can the Minister confirm that the procurement reforms will consider social value and local impact in contracts of Government and partners, such as the Crown Estate and Great British Energy, in important areas where there are World Trade Organisation non-competition exemptions, for example floating offshore wind contracts in the Celtic sea? They can provide a critical boost to the economies of places such as Cornwall.
Context
The procurement reforms aim to consider social value and local impact in contracts of Government and partners, especially for floating offshore wind contracts in the Celtic Sea.
Georgia Gould
I thank my hon. Friend for that question. I can absolutely confirm that we will do everything we can to ensure the new national policy procurement statement drives social value around communities in the UK, in line with our trade obligations.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-10-24
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Shop workers feel powerless and there is a need for more neighbourhood police. Can the Minister explain how trust in police and rule of law will be restored to retail staff and shop managers?
Context
Cornwall town councils employ street rangers, antisocial behaviour officers, and have ShopWatch radios funded from precepts or business improvement districts. Shop managers still struggle with shoplifting and ASB due to poor 101 call response.
Jess Phillips
Extra neighbourhood policing is important not just because we need more police on our streets, but also for confidence when constituents call the police. The neighbourhood police will help with confidence and crime in Cornwall.
Session: Policing 2024-10-21
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Our railway in the south-west is too slow, too fragile and too expensive. Does the Transport Secretary agree with me and colleagues across Cornwall, the south-west and Wales that this new HS2 station will mean slower and more disrupted journeys? Will she meet me and a delegation of south-west MPs to discuss mitigation of the legacy she has inherited from the last Government to ensure that the south-west does not suffer now and in the future because of that disruption?
Context
The railway infrastructure in the south-west faces issues of speed, reliability, and cost. Concerns are raised about the impact of HS2 station construction on future rail services.
Louise Haigh
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for rightly raising these issues. I will be delighted to meet her to discuss the mitigations. Efforts will be made to minimise the impact on passengers, including trains terminating at either Ealing Broadway or Reading.
Session: Old Oak Common Station Construction South-west Travel Disruption 2024-10-10
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What steps she is taking to help mitigate disruption to rail passengers travelling to the south-west when construction of Old Oak Common station begins?
Context
Construction of Old Oak Common station will cause significant disruption to rail passengers travelling to the south-west, a situation that has raised concerns among local MPs.
Louise Haigh
My Department is working with the rail industry to minimise disruption during the construction of Old Oak Common station, including through a £30 million investment in mitigations that will allow services to continue to operate during the disruption.
Session: Old Oak Common Station Construction South-west Travel Disruption 2024-10-10
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Victims of alleged rape in Truro and Falmouth and across the country are having their trials pushed back for months, if not years, often very shortly before those trials are set to begin. That leads to severe distress for victims and families, and can have unintended consequences, such as bail conditions becoming outdated as victims wait so long for their cases to come to trial that addresses change in the meantime. Will the Minister please outline what she is doing to prevent or minimise the potential harm caused by such unintended consequences and to bring those long-delayed cases to a speedy conclusion?
Context
The MP notes the severe distress caused by long delays between the alleged incident and trial, which can lead to outdated bail conditions.
Alex Davies-Jones
I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the awful state our criminal justice system was left in by the previous Government. We are committed to ensuring swift delivery of justice for victims at all stages of the criminal justice system, and we are working closely with various partners to achieve that aim.
Session: Rape and Sexual Violence Victim Support 2024-09-10
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I welcome the Chancellor's growth plans but we rely on the shared prosperity fund and towns deal money with deadlines of March 2025 and March 2026. Will he consider extending these deadlines by up to 12 months?
Context
Cornwall relies on shared prosperity funds and towns deal money for investment. The deadlines are March 2025 and March 2026.
Rachel Reeves
My hon. Friend speaks powerfully about Cornwall's needs, but the spending review will be the appropriate time to consider resources.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-09-03
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Military Helicopters: Blood Cancers
08 July 2025
Responding: Al Carns
Main Concerns
['The debate focuses on the case of a Royal Navy pilot who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer affecting only 5,000 people annually in the UK. The incidence of this disease among personnel working on military helicopters, particularly Sea Kings, raises concerns about potential exposure to harmful exhaust fumes. Jayne Kirkham cites a report from the Independent Medical Expert Group which found insufficient evidence for a causal link but acknowledges that symptoms can take up to 20 years to manifest.']
Specific Asks
['Jayne Kirkham calls for increased awareness and screening programs for veterans who served on helicopters potentially exposing them to harmful fumes. She also asks the government to expedite research into links between helicopter exhaust emissions and blood cancers.']
Floating Offshore Wind: Celtic Sea — [Clive Efford in the Chair]
12 December 2024
Responding: Michael Shanks
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the lack of progress in developing floating offshore wind (FLOW) in the Celtic Sea. She mentions that only one successful floating offshore project has been awarded contracts for difference (CfD), which has dampened investor confidence. The region lacks necessary infrastructure and supply chain capabilities, which could hinder future development. Additionally, there is a risk that economic benefits may be lost to overseas competitors without additional funding to develop local industries.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the Government to ring-fence funding for FLOW in AR7 along geographical or technological lines, support collaborative investment in ports, and create specific targeted wealth funds to invest in infrastructure and supply chain development. She also calls for a unified national strategy for floating offshore wind and a regional masterplan for FLOW in the Celtic Sea.']
Renewable Energy: Cornwall
22 October 2024
Responding: Kerry McCarthy
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the current state of renewable energy development in Cornwall. Only one onshore wind turbine planning application has been successful since January 2015, despite the sector's potential. The lack of funding for urban community energy projects after 2022 is also a significant issue. Moreover, there are major challenges in scaling up floating offshore wind and addressing skills shortages. The grid network constraints and delays in accessing grid connections further hinder growth."]
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to provide more investment, ambition, and long-term strategy for renewable energy development in Cornwall. This includes streamlining planning processes, upgrading transmission and distribution networks, implementing a coherent national plan for ports, and fostering education and training programs to address skills gaps.']
Rural Mobile Connectivity
12 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focuses on the inadequate mobile signal coverage in rural England, particularly highlighting the frustrations and inconveniences faced by constituents due to poor connectivity. Helen Morgan...
Railways Bill (Ninth sitting) 2026-02-03
03 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves amendments to ensure that the designation of railway passenger services considers rail freight capacity and growth priorities. Emphasises the importance of mutual regard between passenger and fr...
Railways Bill (Seventh sitting) 2026-01-29
29 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Proposes amendment to ensure rail strategy covers a period of 30 years, arguing that a long-term vision is necessary for sustainable railway development. Emphasises the need for strategic planning in ...
Education Funding Distribution 2026-01-28
28 January 2026
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
I am grateful for the opportunity to raise the issue of the distribution of education funding, because it goes to the heart of what kind of education system we want. As Liberal Democrats, we want ever...
Youth Unemployment 2026-01-28
28 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Helen Whately argues that youth unemployment is rising due to the Labour Government's policies, such as increasing employer’s National Insurance contributions, reducing business rates relief for retai...
Prisons Illegal Drugs 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Justice Committee is concerned by the growing level of drug use in prisons, leading to a human tragedy with over 136 drug-related deaths between December 2022 and December 2024. The committee's si...
Covid-19 Financial Support 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Perteghella highlights a national scandal where millions of taxpayers were excluded from financial support during the pandemic, despite promises by the Government. She cites 3.8 million UK taxpayers b...
Offshore Wind 2026-01-14
14 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Storm Goretti 2026-01-13
13 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm that the response to Storm Goretti was adequate? The MP raises concerns about the level of media coverage and government attention given to Cornwall compared to more central ...
Rural Communities 2026-01-07
07 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government’s policies have resulted in rising taxes, record closures of agriculture businesses, shops, pubs, and restaurants, falling levels of business investment, changes to funding for rural ar...
Swimming pool facilities in Falmouth
15 December 2025
The petition highlights the lack of a public swimming pool in Falmouth, which negatively impacts water safety education, physical health, mental well-being, rehabilitation, and community cohesion for ...
View Full Petition -->
Swimming pool facilities in Falmouth
05 November 2025
The petition addresses the lack of a public swimming pool in Falmouth, which has been without one since 2022. It highlights the importance of such facilities for water safety education, physical and m...
View Full Petition -->
Geothermal Energy
06 March 2025
The potential for deep geothermal energy in the UK as a clean, secure power source and heat provider was discussed in Parliament, with emphasis on its ability to support job creation and reduce relian...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
90.9%
20 of 22 votes
Aye Votes
9
40.9% of votes
No Votes
11
50.0% of votes
Abstentions
2
9.1% 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
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
3
PMQs Asked
37
Ministerial Questions Asked
63
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
3
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
+366% above average
This MP:
37
Average:
7.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+95% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
1.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2564% above average
This MP:
63
Average:
2.4
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
5.1
Petitions Presented
+34% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.2
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+20% above average
This MP:
90.9
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 Jayne Kirkham's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.