Ben Obese-Jecty
MP for Huntingdon
Con
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Ahead of the forthcoming consultation on local government reorganisation, last month Huntingdonshire district council voted for option E, a Huntingdonshire unitary council. That was a cross-party view, and the Prime Minister’s own Labour councillors voted in favour of it. There is a suspicion locally that the Government favour option D, proposed by the Labour eastern regional office, which would see Huntingdonshire, and my constituency, split in two and combined with Peterborough. Will the Prime Minister offer assurances to my constituents and people across Huntingdonshire that the decision is not already a done deal, and that the democratic will of Huntingdonshire district council will not be overridden to satisfy an unelected Labour regional office?
Context
There is suspicion that the Government favour a particular option for Huntingdonshire's local government reorganisation.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
There are no done deals here; we are going through the proper process.
Assessment
No specific assurances were given, and the issue of overriding democratic will was not addressed
Session: PMQs 2026-01-14
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Does the Prime Minister think it is acceptable for a Back-Bench MP to suggest that the Leader of the Opposition represents “white supremacy in blackface” and is the most prominent member of white supremacy's black collaborator class, with all the race traitor innuendo that that carries? If he does not, why has he not removed the Whip?
Context
A Back-Bench MP suggested that the Leader of the Opposition represents “white supremacy in blackface” and is part of “the most prominent member of white supremacy's black collaborator class”. This raises questions about the appropriateness of such language.
Keir Starmer
No, I do not.
Session: PMQs 2024-11-06
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Can the Home Secretary disclose how many ISIS-linked individuals have been repatriated to the UK and if they were held in custody?
Context
There is a need for clarity regarding repatriated individuals linked with ISIS and their custody status upon return.
Dan Jarvis
I hope the hon. Gentleman will understand if I do not get into specifics—we do not comment on individual cases—but we use all available tools to ensure public safety.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-02-09
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Can the Justice Secretary tell us what is the current counter-drone strategy for HM Prison and Probation Service, given the current delays in the installation of physical unmanned aircraft systems countermeasures, what specific projects are actually in flight to develop the counter-UAS capability across our prison estate, and by when that capability will be available?
Context
The use of drones to bring contraband into prisons has increased by 43% last year, causing alarm in constituencies with prison facilities. The Justice Secretary announced a £6.5 million funding stream but no tenders are currently out.
David Lammy (The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice)
This is a very serious issue, which is why I announced the partnership with our Ukrainian colleagues. I also announced £6 million of funding for that research innovation as part of the package. We are working closely on this matter to enhance security measures.
Session: Prison Estate Safety 2026-02-03
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What steps he is taking to ensure the delivery of initial operating capability for the Ajax programme. The Minister knows that I have a keen interest in this topic. There were 33 injuries sustained during Exercise Titan Storm. General Dynamics achieved initial operating capability for Ajax on 23 July, and between then and Exercise Titan Storm on 22 November, there were three other exercises: Exercise Scorpion Cyclone, Exercise Cyclone Storm and Exercise Tradewind. I asked the Minister a written question last year about how many injuries were sustained, but I am yet to receive a response. How many noise and vibration injuries were sustained on those three exercises? Will he confirm whether there were any injuries prior to his signing off IOC on 5 November?
Context
The MP references previous incidents during Exercise Titan Storm where 33 injuries were sustained. He notes General Dynamics achieved IOC on July 23, followed by three other exercises.
The Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry (Luke Pollard)
I am certain that I have replied to that one, but will check when I get back to the Department, and make sure that he has the reply. We are looking at all the incidents from Titan Storm, at previous suggestions of incidents, and at potential injuries. The injuries under the last Government were well documented, but we have instigated a number of investigations to get to the bottom of what happened, and why that information did not flow to Ministers ahead of the IOC declaration.
Session: Ajax Initial Operating Capacity 2026-02-02
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Could the Minister confirm whether there are any conversations through the UK Defence and Security Exports office around securing an export package for the Ajax vehicle and guaranteeing work at the factory going forwards?
Context
The Ajax armoured vehicle programme is under threat, with work set to be completed at the Merthyr Tydfil factory next summer. The questioner seeks clarity on whether there are discussions around securing an export package for the Ajax vehicle to ensure ongoing employment.
Chris Bryant
Obviously we would like to do so. As the MP for the next-door constituency, and having visited the factory myself, I am keen to ensure that we do so. A large part of this programme is a Ministry of Defence responsibility, and I will make sure that the MOD writes to the hon. Gentleman.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-01-29
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Does the Secretary of State agree that the Mayor of London and the Met Police have a duty to do a full public consultation on these plans after the initial proposal to close several police front counters across London, which was scaled back but still includes the closure of Twickenham's police station front counter despite only 15 people being invited to an online meeting?
Context
The Met Police proposed closing several police front counters in London, but the plans were scaled back after public feedback. However, Twickenham police station’s front counter is still earmarked for closure despite only 15 people being invited to an online meeting.
Sarah Jones
The hon. Lady is right: there was a consultation, and seven fewer front counters will now be closed than before, and she is right that Twickenham is not one of those that will no longer close. We need to judge the police in London on their outcomes and Sadiq Khan on the work that he has done. We have the lowest number of murders since records began.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-11-17
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In June I asked the Government to consider my private Member’s Bill calling for them to publish a strategy to tackle interpersonal abuse and violence against men and boys. On 1 September, the Minister told me that the strategy would be published early in the autumn. We are now well past that date. What is causing the delay in the publication of the revised VAWG strategy?
Context
The questioner had previously asked the Government to consider a private Member’s Bill calling for them to publish a strategy addressing interpersonal abuse and violence against men and boys. The promised publication date has been delayed.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
Yes, I can absolutely give the hon. Gentleman that assurance and would be more than happy to meet him to discuss these matters further. The delay is being caused by the fact that the work will be completely cross-governmental; we must ensure that allocations processes in Government Departments are as good as they possibly can be because previous VAWG strategies have not met expectations.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2025-11-05
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May I first associate myself with the Secretary of State’s remarks about the attack on the train at the weekend? Last week the Ministry of Defence announced the launch of Project Fairfax, which will see a defence technology cluster established alongside RAF Wyton in my constituency. I thank the Minister for his support in bringing the project forward; it has been warmly received not only by industry but, crucially, by my constituents, who are excited about the opportunity presented by specialist defence careers and increasing regional growth that will be delivered best via option E of local government reform. What steps could he take in giving Huntingdonshire the opportunity to create a wider defence ecosystem to meet the eligibility criteria for consideration for funding from the Defence and Security Accelerator?
Context
The MP is discussing the launch of Project Fairfax in his constituency, which will establish a defence technology cluster alongside RAF Wyton.
The Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry (Luke Pollard)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for the tone in which he spoke to the nation about the attack that took place in his constituency. He should feel very proud of the first responders from his area who responded to that attack. As for the opportunities that exist in his constituency, I was very pleased to meet him and my hon. Friend the Member for North West Cambridgeshire (Sam Carling) to look into how, on a cross-party basis, we can seize a real opportunity at RAF Wyton, supporting activities with local government in order to do so. The defence industrial strategy sets out the framework for delivering that opportunity through local and national Government working together with our armed forces and the private sector, as well as academia. We will continue those discussions, but the opportunity at RAF Wyton is real, and I am happy to be helping the hon. Gentleman to deliver it.
Session: Defence Sector Innovation 2025-11-03
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With a decision yet to be made about identifying investible sites and regarding the £600 million fund available through the strategic sites accelerator programme, will the Secretary of State meet me and the chief executive of my local council to discuss the inclusion of potential defence sites in Huntingdon?
Context
RAF Wyton in Huntingdon is set to host a defence technology cluster under Project Fairfax, supported by a £600 million fund from the strategic sites accelerator programme.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Peter Kyle)
I am grateful for the hon. Gentleman’s question, and I know that his community will be grateful for his question too. I can assure him that we are working to mobilise the strategic sites accelerator which will operate across the nation. We expect to communicate how and when the programme will deploy in the coming period into spring. As he knows, RAF Wyton is a key site for cyber and specialist operations command. It is an important asset for our nation. I, or the relevant Minister, will of course meet him to discuss how we can better support that site going forward, but already within Government it is a very highly valued asset.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-10-30
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The new Minister stated earlier that the Government have created 2,405 new prison places, but 1,468 of those are at HMP Millsike, which is part of the new prisons programme that was announced by the previous Conservative Government. The 10,000 additional prison places estate expansion programme—including the houseblocks and refurbishments programme, and the category D programme—has been downgraded from amber to red in the delivery confidence assessment, due to the programme’s key supplier entering administration. What steps is the Justice Secretary taking to put prison construction back on track?
Context
The Government's prison places estate expansion programme has been downgraded from amber to red due to the key supplier entering administration.
Jake Richards
The hon. Member seems to be the last person defending the last Conservative Government on prisons and law and order. The truth is that over 14 years, they built 500 prison places; in 14 months, this Labour Government have built 2,500 places. We are fixing the mess that they left behind.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-09-16
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I recently had an opportunity to join Cambridgeshire constabulary’s rural crime action team to see the work that it does, despite having to cover a huge county of eight constituencies with just 14 officers. Those officers have recently been reallocated from being designated operational support unit officers to neighbourhood policing officers, thus bolstering the number of officers the Government will classify as neighbourhood police and helping them to reach the target of 3,000 officers. However, those officers are neither new nor dedicated neighbourhood police. Can the Home Secretary explain why she is artificially inflating neighbourhood policing numbers by reclassifying those in specialist roles?
Context
Last week was Rural Crime Action Week, and the MP had an opportunity to join Cambridgeshire constabulary's rural crime action team. The team is covering a huge county with just 14 officers, who have been reclassified from operational support unit officers to neighbourhood policing officers.
Shabana Mahmood
The Government’s policy position is to ensure that the policing resource that we have focuses on neighbourhood policing, because we know that visible neighbourhood policing increases the confidence that communities have in going about their business and helps us to take back our town centres from those who indulge in low-level criminality—which is not low level, because it harms people and their confidence in their own communities. That is why we make no secret and are not ashamed of our neighbourhood policing guarantee.
Session: Neighbourhood Policing 2025-09-15
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On Friday, I visited Paragraf, a local business in my constituency. Founded by Simon Thomas, it is a hugely successful spin-out from Cambridge University, developing and manufacturing next generation electronic devices using graphene. These products provide solutions in a range of industries, from quantum computing to diagnostics. As one can imagine with a world-leading technology, there is a huge array of potential military applications. Indeed, the company has already been contacted by our NATO allies. May I invite the Secretary of State and the new procurement Minister to visit Paragraf, meet CEO Simon Thomas and look at how we can seize the initiative in defence with an innovative and world-leading technology, and a real British and Huntingdon success story?
Context
Obese-Jecty visited Paragraf, a local business in his constituency that develops next-generation electronic devices using graphene. The company has potential military applications and has been approached by NATO allies.
Luke Pollard (Minister of State, Ministry of Defence)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his continuing championing of not just defence businesses in his constituency, but defence in total. The amount of parliamentary questions I have answered from him certainly shows his strong interest in this area. I want more of our defence budget focused on novel and innovative technologies. That is what we announced in the strategic defence review, with 10% going to those advanced technologies. There is a real opportunity to create more jobs that provide the world-leading innovation that will give us the edge on the battlefield, because the nation that innovates the most will be the nation that wins in any conflict. I would be very happy to discuss that further with him.
Session: Defence Investment Plan 2025-09-08
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What steps is the Secretary of State taking to improve the process that sees so many applications require a tribunal and to improve delivery of EHCPs in Cambridgeshire?
Context
Cambridgeshire has one of the worst records for delivering Education, Health and Care Plans within statutory deadlines. Over 99% of SEND tribunals find in favor of parents.
Bridget Phillipson
The hon. Gentleman raised serious concerns about reforms for children with SEND. If the Conservative party wants to work on this, I would be very happy. At the moment, all we seem to get is opposition for opposition's sake.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-07-21
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Since 14 June, an F-35B from the Prince of Wales carrier strike group has been stranded on the runway at the Thiruvananthapuram civilian airport in India. What steps are the Government taking to recover the plane, how much longer will that take, and how will the Government ensure the security of protected technologies on the jet while it is in the hangar and out of view?
Context
Concern about the stranded F-35B on a runway in India and its potential security risks.
Luke Pollard
We continue to work with our Indian friends who provided first-class support when the F-35B was unable to return to the Prince of Wales when on a flight mission, and I am certain that the security of the jet is in good hands because Royal Air Force crew are with it at all times.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-06-30
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On Friday, my private Member’s Bill is due for Second Reading. It calls for the Government to publish a strategy to tackle interpersonal abuse and violence against men and boys. The strategy would ensure that male survivors of crimes considered to be violence against women and girls, such as rape, sexual assault, domestic abuse, forced marriage and honour-based violence, are given dedicated support, and also prevent male survivors from having to be in spaces that should be for women. Currently, male survivors are to be included in the strategy for women and girls, due to be published this summer. Can the Minister reassure me, and male survivors in desperate need of support, that the Government will introduce a dedicated strategy for men and boys, and if they will not, why not?
Context
The MP is set to introduce a private Member's Bill aimed at ensuring that male survivors of crimes considered to be violence against women and girls receive dedicated support.
The Minister for Equalities (Seema Malhotra)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising this issue. It does affect women and girls more, but I take the points that he raises, and it is important that all people get the support that they need. I look forward to looking closely at his private Member’s Bill.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2025-06-18
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What rationale can the Minister provide for excluding branch staff in banks and building societies from the protections given to retail staff, who work next to them? There were over 10,000 instances of abuse in branches last year.
Context
The MP highlights that while the Crime and Policing Bill will make assaulting a shop worker an offence, branch staff in banks and building societies are not included in this classification despite facing similar threats and intimidation as retail staff.
The Minister for Policing and Crime Prevention (Dame Diana Johnson)
A case has been made over several years for why retail workers should be covered by this specific offence. Work was done with the Co-op, the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers and many others to get the evidence together. If there is evidence from the financial sector and from banks, I want to see it, so I ask the hon. Gentleman to talk to the people with whom he was having conversations about this. I am very open to looking at this, but at the moment, we have drawn up the offence on the basis of the evidence available to us.
Session: Violence against Shop Workers Rural Areas 2025-06-02
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Last month, I visited the Pidley Lorry Group to discuss its campaign to introduce a 7.5 tonne weight limit to prevent HGVs from using the village as a shortcut. Having enforced the use of the self-funded route by Cambridgeshire county council, the cost to the group so has been in excess of £7,000. There are similar examples affecting Upwood and Alconbury, which are also villages impacted by high volumes of HGV through traffic. What are the Government doing to reduce the bureaucracy and expense for our rural communities, so that they can maintain their quality of life and the safety of those who live there?
Context
High volumes of HGV traffic through villages causing significant costs and quality of life issues.
Lilian Greenwood
Local authorities already have the powers that they need to restrict HGVs to certain vehicles or to place weight limits. If the hon. Member wants to write to me with further details of the particular issues to which he refers, I would be happy to look at that.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-05-15
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Across my constituency in recent weeks we have experienced severe delays to post in those areas served by the Huntingdon delivery office. That follows a recent restructuring of the workforce and changes to delivery routes. Rural communities and businesses, in particular, have been impacted, with missed hospital appointments and several businesses telling me that it is affecting their ability to receive and therefore pay invoices. Will the Minister urgently investigate those ongoing and worsening delays in Huntingdon, and write to me with the outcome of his findings?
Context
The hon. Member's constituency has experienced severe postal service delays, particularly affecting rural areas and businesses.
Justin Madders
I had to wait 50 minutes for a question, Mr Speaker, but this is an important one and I share the hon. Member’s concerns. We regularly meet Ofcom to discuss the performance of Royal Mail, and I will certainly write to him about the discussions we have in respect of his constituency.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-05-01
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Rugby union is sadly a sport on its knees in this country, propped up solely by the six nations, with top-flight clubs going to the wall despite a ringfenced premiership cartel. Mismanagement of the game has become endemic. The Rugby Football Union sustained losses of £38 million last year, yet still found the cash to provide a total remuneration package of £1.1 million to Bill Sweeney, who has presided over the current shambles. Although he survived a vote of no confidence at a special general meeting of the RFU at Twickenham last week, forced by the Whole Game Union, the RFU is desperately trying to restore credibility with the grassroots game. What oversight are the Government providing of the management of rugby union in England, the implementation of the forthcoming modernisation programme and the six-point plan for community rugby? What support can they give to beleaguered grassroots clubs that are the lifeblood of the game and create our future internationals?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the mismanagement in rugby union, including losses sustained by the RFU and high remuneration for senior figures despite financial struggles. He mentions players like George Furbank who started his career locally.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
The hon. Member raises some important points. We had a debate in Westminster Hall on this issue very recently. Of course we want rugby to sort the issues out for itself, but we appreciate the seriousness of the issues, and the Secretary of State and I meet regularly with its representatives.
Session: Grassroots Sports 2025-04-03
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In response to a written question to me last week, the Minister confirmed that no nationally significant infrastructure projects have been consented to that will use greater than 50% best and most versatile agricultural land. In my constituency, the East Park Energy solar farm is close to 75%, but the overarching national policy statement for energy states at paragraph 5.11.34: “The Secretary of State should ensure that applicants do not site their scheme on the best and most versatile agricultural land without justification.” Can the Minister confirm whether nearly 1,500 acres of best and most versatile land is too much good-quality agricultural land to sacrifice?
Context
There is to be a much reduced testing process for oil at the import terminal at Grangemouth. Brian Leishman is concerned about potential fuel shortages.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
Throughout the seven months that we have been in government, we have been doing everything we can to work with the operators of the Grangemouth refinery. Of course we were disappointed by its closure. We have carried out a number of pieces of work on fuel security. We are not concerned about that at this point, but, across the whole country, we keep constantly it under review.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-18
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In response to a written question to me last week, the Minister confirmed that no nationally significant infrastructure projects have been consented to that will use greater than 50% best and most versatile agricultural land. In my constituency, the East Park Energy solar farm is close to 75%, but the overarching national policy statement for energy states at paragraph 5.11.34: “The Secretary of State should ensure that applicants do not site their scheme on the best and most versatile agricultural land without justification.” Can the Minister confirm whether nearly 1,500 acres of best and most versatile land is too much good-quality agricultural land to sacrifice?
Context
Kent county council plans to introduce 10,000 on-street car chargers over the next decade. Mike Martin is concerned about the speed of implementation.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
The hon. Gentleman will know that any nationally significant project goes through a proper planning process, and it would not be right for me to comment on that. None the less, I am sure that the decision makers will be looking closely at the issues that he has raised.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-18
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How will the new offence of possessing a knife with violent intent differ from existing legislation relating to possession of an article with a blade or point, or possession of an offensive weapon? How far will the law go when it comes to proving intent?
Context
The question seeks clarification on how the new law will differ from current laws and what considerations will be made when determining intent.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones)
I welcome that question. My understanding is that the hon. Member is a member of the Crime and Policing Bill Committee that will be scrutinising the legislation. Is he not? I will welcome engagement with him, though, and his scrutiny as the legislation progresses through the House.
Session: Knife Crime Victims 2025-03-11
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To what extent do the Government support CARICOM’s 10-point plan for reparatory justice?
Context
CARICOM has been actively engaged in discussions on reparative justice, including a 10-point plan for reparatory justice.
The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)
As I just stated, our policy on reparations is clear: we do not pay them.
Session: Historic Slavery Reparations 2025-02-25
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What tests will be phased out via the work of the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs) and when? Will a timeline be published?
Context
In Ben Obese-Jecty's constituency of Huntingdon, there are two sites involved in pre-clinical animal testing. The Minister for Science, Research and Innovation wrote to him in September outlining the Government’s approach to phasing out animal testing.
The Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms (Chris Bryant)
I cannot provide the hon. Gentleman with that timeline now. We are working at pace trying to put together a practicable policy and a strategy which, as I said, we will publish by the end of the year. He makes a perfectly good point about the complexities. It will not be easy for the MHRA to meet its international commitments and our manifesto commitments. We are happy to work with the sector as well as with other Departments to deliver this, and I am happy to have a conversation with him if that would help.
Session: Animal Testing 2025-02-12
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In light of Deborah Lee's statement and the Minister's confirmation last year regarding the lifespan extension through mitigation measures, can the Secretary of State confirm that the rebuild will not be delayed by safety regulations reviews? Will he assure constituents that RAAC buildings at Hinchingbrooke will remain safe beyond 2030, and if so, will he publish the risk assessment?
Context
Deborah Lee, the senior responsible officer for the Hinchingbrooke hospital redevelopment programme, stated last July that the deadline for a new hospital is 2030. In a written answer to Ben Obese-Jecty, the Minister confirmed that mitigation measures would extend the lifespan of RAAC buildings only until approximately 2030.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
As part of the new hospital programme, wave 1 includes Hinchingbrooke Hospital which has received over £44 million for RAAC mitigation safety works. A site-by-site survey is being conducted to ensure high-risk elements are addressed promptly. The Minister confirms that a report will be expected in summer and emphasizes safety as a priority.
Session: Hinchingbrooke Hospital 2025-02-11
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How many Afghans who worked directly for British forces have been relocated to the UK under the Afghan resettlement programme? The Government’s own figures estimate that around 7,000 local Afghans were employed by British forces during Op Herrick, of whom only 2,850 were interpreters and translators on the frontline. If the Ministry of Defence does not know why they are eligible to be let into the country, it presumably also does not know who they are or what they have been doing in Afghanistan over the past decade.
Context
The Afghan resettlement programme has brought over 30,000 eligible Afghans to the UK. However, it is unclear how many of these individuals worked directly for British forces.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
We owe a debt of gratitude to those people who served alongside our forces in Afghanistan. The programme was started by the last Government and this Government are proud to continue it. Everyone brought to safety in the UK from the Taliban under the Afghan schemes has been vetted in relation to that. There are a variety of roles that cover support to our armed forces in relation to our UK mission in Afghanistan, but I can reassure him that I pay close attention to this area.
Session: Afghan Resettlement Programme 2025-02-10
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On Monday, a judge in an employment tribunal brought by the GMB union ruled that predominantly female Asda employees on the shop floor and predominantly male employees working in Asda’s warehouses—completely different roles with different conditions—were carrying out work of equal value. The ruling could cost Asda £1.2 billion in back pay and an annual wage bill increase of £400 million—an even bigger blow than the additional £100 million increase in the company’s wage bill as a result of the Chancellor’s Budget. Does the Minister agree that private companies should be free to set different wages for completely different jobs, irrespective of the gender balance in those roles, without being overruled by the courts?
Context
A recent employment tribunal ruled that predominantly female Asda employees and predominantly male warehouse staff were carrying out work of equal value, potentially costing the company £1.2 billion in back pay.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Anneliese Dodds)
Business knows that having pay that is in line with skills, and equal pay for work of equal value, is incredibly important. Matters covered in employment tribunals are for those tribunals to determine.
Session: Gender Pay Gap 2025-02-05
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I have multiple casework examples from constituents in Huntingdon who have been impacted by CMS inefficiencies, including incorrectly calculated arrears with no explanation of how the sums have been calculated, and failure to verify the location of fathers who are not providing financial support. Such cases have resulted in consolatory payments from the CMS for maladministration and service delays. In all instances, my constituents have been frustrated by their inability to contact the CMS over the phone. In the quarter ending September 2024, 41% of calls to the Child Maintenance Service were not answered. What are the Government doing to improve contact with the CMS by telephone?
Context
Obese-Jecty cited specific examples of CMS inefficiencies, including incorrectly calculated arrears and failure to verify fathers' locations. He noted consolatory payments due to maladministration and service delays.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
I am very sorry to hear of those specific examples. I will take away the point about telephone communication and come back to the hon. Gentleman, but it may be worth our having a broader conversation about his concerns. I will happily meet him to discuss any of the specifics of the cases he cited.
Session: Child Maintenance Service Efficiency 2025-02-03
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I recently spoke to Chris Dodson, a local thatcher in Sawtry, who raised with me the shortage of thatching straw, particularly long straw thatch. With Historic England insisting that grade II listed properties should use like-for-like materials in replacements and the chance of listed building consent to change from straw to water reed unlikely to be granted, will the Minister confirm what the Government are doing to ensure that thatchers are not hindered by the current guidance and the shortage of thatching straw?
Context
Chris Dodson, a local thatcher in Sawtry, raised concerns about the shortage of long straw thatch and the requirement by Historic England for grade II listed properties to use like-for-like materials.
Matthew Pennycook
I confess that that is a question to which I do not have the answer. The Government intend to amend building regulations later this year as part of the introduction of future standards, and it sounds like this issue, which I think came up in the debate on a private Member’s Bill on Friday, is one that we need to consider. I am more than happy to sit down with the hon. Gentleman and have a further discussion about it.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-01-20
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On those new bus routes, within the last hour, Stagecoach East has issued a statement about the delayed new tiger bus routes, citing the decision by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough combined authority to retender the routes, inconsistencies in the award letter, concerns over the legality of the operation and the increased cost due to the Government’s national insurance increase as reasons for the delay until at least May. Does the Secretary of State share my concern that bus services in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are not being managed effectively by the Labour mayor?
Context
Stagecoach East has issued a statement about the delayed new tiger bus routes, citing multiple issues including inconsistencies in award letters and concerns over legality.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
I am happy to speak further with the hon. Gentleman about his concerns regarding local bus services. I know how critical bus services are for young people wanting to get to school, people wanting to get to work and older people wanting to access vital lifeline services. I am happy to meet him to talk in more detail about his local concerns.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-01-09
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Flooding continues to impact many constituents in Huntingdon, and local efforts like the recently opened alderman's retention pond at Sallows farm have been successful. What Government funding is available for further such measures?
Context
The MP highlights the ongoing flooding issues in Huntingdon and asks about funding availability for constructing additional retention ponds.
Emma Hardy
I thank all flood action groups around the country for doing incredible work for their communities. We are investing £2.4 billion over the next couple of years. I hope to be able to give more detail in the new year.
Session: Flood Protection Funding 2024-12-19
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How can one officer be expected to effectively cover such a large area when Cambridgeshire is likely to receive only a handful of officers?
Context
Under the Home Secretary's plans, one police officer would cover St Ives and surrounding villages. The previous Policing Minister did not commit to reviewing the police allocation formula.
Diana R. Johnson
The Government committed to restoring neighbourhood policing, bringing in 13,000 police officers, PCSOs and specials.
Session: Retail Crime 2024-11-25
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Toothless in Huntingdon in my constituency has written to me highlighting that 36% of patients under Cambridgeshire and Peterborough integrated care system no longer have an NHS dentist. It wants dental practices to provide access to those needing emergency treatment and a priority pathway for referrals from hospital departments such as cardiology and oncology. To that extent, what steps are being taken in Huntingdonshire to improve dental access across rural Cambridgeshire? How are the Government helping the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough integrated care system to address those issues?
Context
The MP highlighted that 36% of patients under the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough integrated care system no longer have an NHS dentist. He suggested providing access to emergency treatment and a priority pathway for referrals from hospital departments.
Stephen Kinnock
Obviously the golden hello scheme for rural areas is very important. We are pushing forward on that, and I am pleased to say that hundreds have expressed interest in it and appointments are starting on that basis. The hon. Gentleman is right about training places. As I have already mentioned, we are very open to establishments and institutions coming forward with proposals for that. We are living in a country where the biggest cause of hospital admission for five to nine-year-olds is having their rotten teeth removed. That is a truly Dickensian state of affairs, and it needs to be fixed as a priority.
Session: NHS Dentists Access 2024-11-19
View All Questions -->
Labour's manifesto made it clear that it was committed to scrapping visa fees for non-UK veterans who have served this country for four or more years, as well as their dependants—a pledge I wholeheartedly support and have campaigned on. The Veterans Minister previously stated that the MOD has started to work with the Home Office, so what is the timetable for delivering that manifesto pledge?
Context
Labour's manifesto commitment to scrap visa fees for non-UK veterans.
Alistair Carns
We are working on that. It is in the manifesto, and it will come out in due course.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-11-18
View All Questions -->
Op Fortitude is running and we have had more than 2,000 referrals so far, with 700 veterans put into housing. We will continue to extend the programme to ensure that every veteran has a home in due course.
Context
The Prime Minister announced a programme to house all veterans in need.
Alistair Carns
As the hon. Gentleman will know, Op Fortitude is running and we have had more than 2,000 referrals so far, with 700 veterans put into housing. We will continue to extend the programme to ensure that every veteran has a home in due course.
Session: Veterans Support 2024-10-14
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State meet him to discuss how they can guarantee that rural villages are given the focus they need?
Context
Eight villages in Huntingdon receive no bus services, including Molesworth with major infrastructure investment.
Louise Haigh
The hon. Gentleman has made the case for franchising. It is totally unacceptable that entire villages are cut off, without the bus services that they absolutely need. That denies people the opportunity to move around their area and get to work or education opportunities. The Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is pursuing franchising. We are supporting him in those efforts, and we will make sure that villages such as those in the hon. Gentleman's constituency are properly included in the franchising process.
Session: Local Bus Services 2024-10-10
View All Questions -->
Given that the Government's own equality analysis states that only 100,000 of the 880,000 pensioners who are eligible for pension credit are expected to apply for it, if all those who are eligible do apply, how much more will that cost compared with the initial saving from removing the winter fuel payment?
Context
There is an estimate that only 100,000 out of the 880,000 eligible pensioners are expected to apply for pension credit due to government changes.
Liz Kendall
I say gently to the hon. Gentleman that upon coming into government, we discovered that 880,000 pensioners are not claiming the pension credit they are entitled to. Given that his former Government failed to take action to deal with that issue, I suggest that instead of making that point, he works with his council to increase pension credit uptake and looks at the £1.8 million we have given to Peterborough council to make sure that all the help for pensioners, including on winter fuel, is made available.
Session: Winter Fuel Payment 2024-10-07
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Ajax Programme
14 January 2026
Responding: Al Carns
Main Concerns
['The Ajax programme has been failing for several years with issues such as noise and vibration, delays in delivery, and safety concerns. The National Audit Office report in March 2022 highlighted problems with component specifications, design changes, and sequencing of work leading to programme delays.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to clarify whether the current issues with Ajax are still an issue today and if the contract incentivising production milestones over quality remains unchanged. Additionally, I seek confirmation on the validation of designs before manufacturing for capability drops 3 and 4.']
Local Government Reform: Huntingdonshire
19 November 2025
Responding: Alison McGovern
Main Concerns
['Reports suggest that councillors may be voting for option C based on advice from ChatGPT, which is a concerning way to decide the future of Huntingdonshire. The author expresses alarm over the lack of clear benefits outlined in option D and the potential disregard for local identities, particularly between communities like Huntingdon and St Ives.']
Specific Asks
['The MP urges councillors to vote against options C and D and support a unitary authority for Huntingdonshire (option E) to prevent the division and weakening of their community.']
Local Government Reform: Cambridgeshire
08 July 2025
Responding: Jim McMahon
Main Concerns
['Cambridgeshire residents have been presented with just three options for local government reorganisation. However, the detailed proposals that were narrowed down from six initial options have not been published, making it difficult to understand how these decisions were made and what evidence was used.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the Government to ensure that any decision reflects the wants and needs of local residents and clarifies whether impacted residents across Cambridgeshire will have their say before the final proposals are submitted in November.']
Professional Cycling: Free-to-air Coverage
05 March 2025
Responding: Stephanie Peacock
Main Concerns
["The demise of Eurosport and the move to a subscription-based model for cycling coverage, including the Tour de France, is seen as a significant blow. The closure of GCN+ has led to less accessibility in watching global cycling events, with only 10% of viewers being able to access races through other means. There's also a concern that this will discourage children from taking up cycling and reduce national pride associated with the sport."]
Specific Asks
['The lead MP calls for free-to-air coverage of professional cycling to be maintained or reinstated, highlighting its importance in inspiring future generations and maintaining public interest in the sport.']
Lord Mandelson: Government Response to Humble Address Motion
12 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Police Grant Report
11 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Policing Minister Sarah Jones moved to approve the Police Grant Report for England and Wales, emphasising a £1.3 billion increase in funding compared to the previous year, with £432 million coming...
Ministry of Defence: Palantir Contracts
10 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Power Plan
10 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Jimmy Lai: Prison Sentence
09 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Standards in Public Life
09 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
China and Japan 2026-02-02
02 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Prime Minister outlined the importance of engaging with both China and Japan to safeguard national interests. He discussed his recent visit, highlighting the strengthening of UK-US relations, rese...
Prison Capacity Annual Statement 2026-01-29
29 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government are publishing the second annual statement on prison capacity, reflecting their determination to be open and honest about the state of the justice system. They inherited a prison system...
British Indian Ocean Territory 2026-01-28
28 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Conservative MP Priti Patel argues that the United Kingdom should not cede sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory to Mauritius, criticising Labour's £34.7 billion deal as harmful and detr...
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill 2026-01-26
26 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm that the Government’s plans for the Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill are secure despite criticisms? The urgency lies in concerns over nation...
East Park Energy solar farm
12 May 2025
Residents of Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire are concerned about the proposed East Park Energy solar farm, a 1,900-acre development classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, which...
View Full Petition -->
East Park Energy Solar Farm
06 March 2025
Residents of Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire are concerned about the proposed East Park Energy solar farm, which they believe will cause significant environmental and agricultural damage due to its si...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
95.5%
21 of 22 votes
Aye Votes
12
54.5% of votes
No Votes
9
40.9% of votes
Abstentions
1
4.5% of votes
03 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED NO
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 63 Stand part
Ayes: 348
Noes: 167
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 26
Ayes: 172
Noes: 334
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 9
Ayes: 181
Noes: 335
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 86 stand part
Ayes: 344
Noes: 173
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 25
Ayes: 187
Noes: 351
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 24
Ayes: 184
Noes: 331
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 7
Ayes: 188
Noes: 341
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 185
Noes: 344
Failed
2
PMQs Asked
36
Ministerial Questions Asked
125
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
22
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 649 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+3% above average
This MP:
2
Average:
1.9
Ministerial Questions
+354% above average
This MP:
36
Average:
7.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+160% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
1.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+5186% above average
This MP:
125
Average:
2.4
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
5.1
Petitions Presented
-11% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.2
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+26% above average
This MP:
95.5
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 Ben Obese-Jecty's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.