Euan Stainbank
MP for Falkirk
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The Grangemouth refinery closure has loomed over central Scotland since Petroineos’s announcement in November 2023. Two weeks ago, Scottish Labour colleagues and I met the National Wealth Fund to make the case for investment in Grangemouth. I strongly welcome the exceptional commitment that this Labour Government have shown to Grangemouth by committing £200 million from the National Wealth Fund. Can I ask the Prime Minister what steps the Government will be taking to secure permanent good jobs at Grangemouth?
Context
The Grangemouth refinery in central Scotland has been facing potential closure since November 2023, leading to discussions about securing permanent good jobs at the site.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank my hon. Friend for being such a great champion for Scotland and his constituency. Grangemouth is really important to communities in Scotland and to the economy in Scotland. It is not a charity case; it has incredible potential and huge opportunity. That is why, at the weekend, I was pleased to announce £200 million from the National Wealth Fund to incentivise private investment. That follows the £100 million in the growth deal that we announced earlier. This is about securing jobs for decades to come in Grangemouth.
Session: PMQs 2025-02-26
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The latest Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders data reveals that EVs are losing market share. The president of Hyundai's European arm has been quoted in The Telegraph as arguing that the ZEV mandate no longer makes sense and needs to be rethought. Without change, he said, the policy could cause manufacturers to become loss-making and prompt some to stop selling both internal combustion engine and electric cars in the United Kingdom. When will the Government understand that people just do not want EVs, and no amount of taxpayer-funded bribes to try to make them do so are going to work?
Context
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders data reveals that EVs are losing market share.
Heidi Alexander
I am afraid that is just not true. Compared with 2024, EV sales increased by nearly a quarter in 2025, and nine in 10 drivers who switch would recommend an EV thanks to ease of use and a quieter, smoother driving experience.
Session: Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate 2026-02-12
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Will the Minister consider supporting a dual fuel discount that includes gas costs to support the automotive advanced manufacturing sector?
Context
Manufacturers such as Alexander Dennis need support to stay competitive while transitioning to zero emission vehicles.
Chris McDonald
Concerned about gas-intensive industries, the Government aims to provide support through clean power mission policies that encourage decarbonisation by electrification where possible.
Session: Businesses Cost of Energy 2026-02-10
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The Tories' asylum hotels have divided communities and endangered vulnerable people in communities such as Falkirk, but we must be honest: the Inverness barracks proposal is controversial, and will aggravate community tensions in Scotland rather than cool them if there is no corresponding urgent move to close asylum hotels in Scotland. Will the Secretary of State join me this month in visiting Kemper Avenue to see at first hand why the Cladhan must now be fairly prioritised for closure in the hotel exit plan?
Context
The question addresses the controversy surrounding the proposed use of Inverness barracks for asylum seekers in Scotland, highlighting concerns about community tensions and the need to close existing asylum hotels.
Shabana Mahmood
There are no easy options having inherited a broken asylum system and in which there are asylum hotels, which were opened by the Conservative party, in operation across the whole of the country. We believe that large military sites are a better way of reducing the burden felt by communities across the country, including in Scotland. I reassure my hon. Friend that, by the end of this Parliament, we will get out of every single asylum hotel, including in his constituency.
Session: Asylum Seekers Hotels 2026-02-09
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What steps are being taken to close asylum hotels?
Context
Asylum hotel accommodation is viewed as a legacy issue.
Shabana Mahmood
We have restarted decision making, increased returns and opened new military sites. We will shut every single one by the end of this Parliament.
Session: Asylum Seekers Hotels 2026-02-09
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The 10-year bus pipeline is yet to be published, and a media report about the investigation by the National Cyber Security Centre and the Department for Transport into kill switches suggests that 700-plus Chinese buses on British roads have remote disabling technology. Can the Minister confirm whether the Government are delaying the publication of the 10-year bus pipeline until the report on Chinese kill switches is concluded?
Context
There is concern over the publication delay of the 10-year bus pipeline report, as well as reports suggesting that 700-plus Chinese buses on British roads have remote disabling technology.
Dan Jarvis
I believe that my hon. Friend has had a meeting with a Transport Minister to discuss these matters, but I would be very happy to discuss them with him further.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-01-22
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The Hillsborough law will deliver a generational strengthening of legal aid, but does the Minister share my constituents’ concern about the fact that the Scottish Government have yet to confirm that similar non-means-tested legal aid will be available to bereaved families in Scotland?
Context
The Hillsborough law aims to strengthen legal aid provision for bereaved families when there has been state involvement in the death of their loved ones.
Alex Davies-Jones
I can confirm that we have had positive conversations with the Scottish Government about extending the provision to Scotland. This is a matter for them, but we are engaging in positive conversations, and they have shown willing in wanting to adopt the same model that we will be adopting to provide non-means-tested legal aid for all bereaved families when there has been state involvement in the death of their loved ones.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-12-16
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What fiscal steps are being taken to support industry in the Forth valley? I welcome the additional £14 million-plus to get new industry delivered quickly in Grangemouth and the £25 million to finalise the freeport in the Budget two weeks ago. Forth Valley college is vital to giving local working-class kids the skills they need to grasp the new opportunities that must come to Grangemouth, but it has been failed by the SNP Scottish Government’s staggering 20% cut to colleges since 2021. The Alloa campus now faces closure. Will the Minister consider stepping in with direct skills support for this vital college?
Context
The question arises from the need for economic support and development in Grangemouth, which has a long industrial history but is currently facing challenges due to high energy prices and potential college closures.
James Murray (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
Education and skills policy, including the funding and operation of colleges, is fully devolved to the Scottish Government. That means that it is for Scottish Ministers to decide how to support Forth Valley college with the overall settlement. As my hon. Friend will know, the spending review provided the Scottish Government with their largest settlement in real terms since devolution in 1998, and the Budget provided an additional £820 million to Scotland through the Barnett formula. In the months ahead we will be campaigning to ensure that decisions about how to invest that funding in Scotland’s future will be taken by Anas Sarwar and a Scottish Labour Government.
Session: Forth Valley Industry 2025-12-09
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Some 1,750 kids in Falkirk, most of whom have a parent in work, will be lifted from poverty and its lifelong economic consequences by the fully funded lifting of the two-child cap. Does the Minister agree that the cost of this poverty-alleviation policy is far less than the long-term cost of leaving those parents in poverty?
Context
The lifting of the two-child cap will benefit 1,750 children in Falkirk with working parents.
Diana Johnson
I agree with my hon. Friend. It is shocking that during the previous Government some 900,000 children were allowed to get into poverty. The cost of that will be borne by us all, which is why the investment now will pay dividends in the future.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-12-08
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Considering that Chinese state-subsidised manufacturers have gained a rising market share in the UK over the past few years, that the Department for Transport and the National Cyber Security Centre have recently announced an investigation into kill switches in Chinese buses, and that the 10-year bus pipeline is expected imminently, will the Minister be raising our Government’s concerns about Chinese buses directly with the Chinese Government?
Context
Chinese manufacturers have gained market share in the UK, with recent investigations into safety risks from Chinese buses. The 10-year bus pipeline is expected imminently.
Dan Jarvis (The Minister of State, Cabinet Office)
I am grateful to my hon. Friend, not just for his question today, but for the important work that he has done in this particular area, in his constituency and across Scotland. I have listened carefully to what he has had to say this morning, and I would be happy to discuss it with him further.
Session: National Resilience 2025-12-04
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Last month, it was announced that a £200 million investment in Grangemouth has secured private investment through the national wealth fund. Does the Minister agree we need an anchor industry with scale and skills like those of the former oil refinery? When will the Government take a partial stake and make an announcement on Grangemouth’s industrial future?
Context
The Energy Minister previously stated that £200 million investment from the national wealth fund brought private investment to Grangemouth. The constituency seeks an anchor industry similar to former oil refineries.
The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend's work with the Government and national wealth fund, securing £200 million investment through 100 projects. Due diligence is ongoing before we can make any announcements.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-11-18
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The Government have already acted to fix the unworkable mess in which the Tories left the asylum system. An increase of 116% in processing in one year is bringing down the backlog, securing refugee status for those fleeing persecution and removing those with no right to be here, but communities such as those in Falkirk must see the benefit of the difference in approach. What steps will the Home Secretary take to guarantee Tory-created asylum hotels will be closed equitably across the nations of the United Kingdom?
Context
The Government have increased processing rates, but communities are concerned about the equitable closure of asylum hotels.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Shabana Mahmood)
We are working with Ministers across Government on closing every hotel as soon as possible, and by the end of this Parliament. As we have all seen, that is a complex process that must be delivered through a controlled, managed and orderly programme of work. We do not want to be in a situation where, without an alternative ready, we start exiting hotels before it is time to do so. I assure my hon. Friend that we will take a balanced and evidence-based approach towards making decisions about the locations that we will use and how we will exit hotels. I look forward to talking to him in more detail about these plans in due course.
Session: Asylum Hotels 2025-11-17
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I declare an interest as co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group for British buses. Our bus manufacturing industry supports thousands of jobs across the country, but faces an existential challenge from China. Market share has increased rapidly, and the Scottish National party’s disastrous ScotZEB 2 scheme sent less than 20% of orders to Scotland’s sole manufacturer, which directly jeopardised 400 jobs earlier this year. What urgent interventions are Ministers considering to contend with the rise in Chinese market share? Has the Minister discussed this issue with colleagues in the Department for Transport prior to the publication of the 10-year bus pipeline next month? Record bus funding should not be a shopping list for China.
Context
Concerns about Chinese competition impacting British bus manufacturers and job security.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Blair McDougall)
I share my hon. Friend’s frustration at the lack of an industrial strategy from the SNP Government in Edinburgh. It has meant that workers at Alexander Dennis in his constituency are on furlough rather than doing what they do best: making world-class buses for public transport. For our part, we are supporting combined mayoral authorities to co-ordinate the procurement of buses through a Crown Commercial Service commercial agreement, and we are publishing a 10-year pipeline of future bus orders to provide the much-needed certainty that the sector requires.
Session: Industrial Strategy 2025-10-30
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I declare an interest as the co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group for British buses. Alexander Dennis and Wrightbus create 13 jobs for every four directly hired in bus manufacturing, and for decades Alexander Dennis has been an invaluable piece of the Scottish economy. After the business almost left Scotland following the Scottish National party’s disastrous Chinese bus-buying strategy, to its credit it spent nearly £4 million fixing the near fatal error. Will the Minister set out what the Cabinet Office is doing through public procurement so that my constituents’ taxpayer money is maximising Falkirk, Scottish and British-based businesses?
Context
Alexander Dennis, a significant bus manufacturer, employs 13 jobs for every four directly hired in the industry. After facing financial difficulties due to the Scottish National Party's Chinese bus-buying strategy, the company spent nearly £4 million rectifying this issue.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
Unlike the SNP Government, evidently, this Labour Government believe that where things are made and who makes them matters. That is why we are consulting on further procurement reforms to boost domestic supply chains and create more opportunities for businesses of all sizes, whether that be in Falkirk or across the United Kingdom.
Session: Public Procurement Employment 2025-10-23
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What steps is the Government taking to support the bus sector? The consultation on 400 jobs at Alexander Dennis closes tomorrow. It has been a time of deep anxiety for the local workers. Despite £40 million now available from Transport Scotland, it must be spent correcting the SNP industrial failure in ScotZEB2. What engagement have Ministers had with the Scottish Government regarding recently consulted-on procurement reforms and their potential benefits to the Scottish bus manufacturing and operation sectors?
Context
A consultation on the potential loss of 400 jobs at Alexander Dennis, a local bus manufacturer in Falkirk. The SNP's ScotZEB2 scheme initially sent over three times as many buses to China compared to Scotland’s sole manufacturer. Although £40 million has been made available by Transport Scotland, it must be used to correct this issue.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
I convened an extraordinary meeting of the UK bus manufacturing expert panel on 28 July, attended by the Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Transport, metro mayors and mayoral combined authorities, to accelerate the panel’s key priorities of establishing a bus order pipeline and strengthening local value within public sector procurement. I will continue to work closely with the Scottish Government on this issue.
Session: Bus Sector Support 2025-09-11
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Despite public transport linking people from the Braes, Bonnybridge, Bainsford and beyond to Falkirk, the high street has been dwindling over the past 20 years. SNP and Tory councillors decided to cut the “free after 3” parking scheme for Falkirk town centre businesses and further drive footfall away from our high street restaurants, cafés and pubs. In the forthcoming small business strategy, will the Minister consider looking at how this Labour Government can support accessible and cheap parking in Scottish town centres?
Context
The MP discussed the challenges faced by high streets due to parking scheme cuts and other issues, asking about support in the small business strategy.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
I very much sympathise with my hon. Friend’s frustration about what both the SNP and the Conservatives have done to free parking in his constituency. I sympathise because the Tory-run council in my constituency has taken similar steps to curtail free parking, which has undoubtedly had an impact on the town centre. I hope that the concerns my hon. Friend has articulated today will be heard loud and clear in his constituency, and that action will be taken. Our SME strategy will set out a range of steps that we are determined to take to back small businesses and help entrepreneurs across Britain.
Session: Hospitality Sector 2025-07-17
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I declare an interest as co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group on British buses. Our £15.6 billion commitment to regional transport through the spending review should be good news for bus manufacturing. However, Alexander Dennis’s ongoing consultation threatens 400 jobs in Falkirk, putting another major employer at risk just after the closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery. The Scottish National party’s ScotZEB 2 scheme famously failed to invest in Scotland. Where things are built and by who matters, so will the Chancellor act to guarantee that our investment in transport is of maximum benefit to Scottish vehicle manufacturers?
Context
Addressing the Chancellor, Euan Stainbank raised concerns about the potential loss of jobs at Alexander Dennis due to a lack of local investment from the Government.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
It is important that, as this Government put more money into infrastructure, including transport, it benefits companies and jobs here in Britain. It is not right the Scottish Government spend more on buses made in China than on buses made in Scotland. There is nothing preventing the Scottish National party from investing in jobs and growth in Scotland.
Session: Transport Infrastructure Funding 2025-07-01
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This Saturday, hundreds will join to mark Falkirk Armed Forces Day in Callendar Park, belatedly. Many of those who are currently serving and veterans in Scotland rely on the activities of charitable organisations such as the Ancre Somme Association, which is hosting the event, and Veterans Housing Scotland, which provides affordable housing for those who have served. Do the Government have any plans to supplement the essential and welcome £1.5 billion additional investment for service housing with additional support for registered charitable organisations that are working tirelessly to safely house veterans?
Context
The MP mentions a local Armed Forces Day event in Callendar Park, Falkirk, and highlights the work of charities like the Ancre Somme Association and Veterans Housing Scotland.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
We do indeed, and we are putting in extra funds and greater support to deal with the problem of homeless veterans. I am happy to thank and pay tribute to the Ancre Somme Association for its part in a successful Armed Forces Day parade and celebration in Falkirk.
Session: Armed Forces Family Housing 2025-06-30
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I declare an interest as co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group for British buses. As the Minister has outlined, this Labour Government will double real-terms transport spending in city regions by the end of this Parliament. While this should be very good news for bus manufacturing in this country, Alexander Dennis—in my constituency and that of my hon. Friend the Member for Alloa and Grangemouth (Brian Leishman)—is, in a contradictory move, seeking to end more than a century of bus manufacturing in Scotland and put 400 workers in Falkirk out of their jobs. What actions will the Secretary of State and Ministers, in conjunction with Cabinet colleagues and the Scottish Government, take to maintain strategically necessary bus manufacturing in Falkirk?
Context
Alexander Dennis Ltd has initiated a consultation period to potentially end more than a century of bus manufacturing in Scotland, putting over 400 workers out of their jobs. This situation contrasts with Labour mayors placing orders for UK-manufactured buses.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
Labour mayors across the country are putting in orders for UK-manufactured buses, as we support bus travel in our towns and cities. The Scottish people will be asking questions about why the Mayor of Greater Manchester has managed to buy almost four times as many buses from Scotland as the SNP Scottish Government have. My officials and I are in close contact with Ministers and representatives from the Scottish Government, the Department for Business and Trade, the NFI Group—the owner of Alexander Dennis—and Scottish Enterprise to explore avenues of support.
Session: Bus Manufacturing 2025-06-26
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I welcome the £200 million commitment to Grangemouth and clean energy through the national wealth fund, and I also welcome the Department’s confirmation to me recently that that money will not be fettered exclusively to the Project Willow proposals. The need for investment is urgent, with jobs lost and the broader economic impacts impending. We need to move further and faster, so what conversations are Treasury Ministers having with their Cabinet colleagues to encourage them to act on the Project Willow policy recommendations and deliver investment in Grangemouth?
Context
The MP welcomes the £200 million commitment to Grangemouth and clean energy through the national wealth fund, noting that Project Willow proposals should not fetter investment. The need for urgent investment is highlighted due to job losses and broader economic impacts.
Darren Jones (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
I thank my hon. Friend, who is a champion for his constituency and for industry. As he has alluded to, the Government have already made hundreds of millions of pounds available through the national wealth fund for the company in question. We are working to ensure a just transition, harbouring the skills of people in Scotland and across the country. We are now in active discussions as the spending review comes to an end, and we will be able to present more detail to the House on 11 June.
Session: Clean Energy Transition Spending Review 2025-05-20
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Project Willow supports the potential of sustainable aviation fuel to bring jobs to Grangemouth, if the right policies are in place such as flexibility on the cap on hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids, and expediency on the revenue certainty mechanism. What is the Department doing urgently to assess, integrate and implement the recommendations of Project Willow and to support accelerated investment at Grangemouth?
Context
The MP highlights the potential of sustainable aviation fuel for job creation in Grangemouth, depending on government support.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mike Kane)
My hon. Friend is a doughty champion for the Grangemouth refinery. He asks what we are doing: yesterday, we introduced the SAF Bill to bring forward the revenue certainty mechanism, and we continue to consider the Project Willow report and its recommendations.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-05-15
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Yesterday was International Workers’ Memorial Day. At a service this weekend in Falkirk, a Grangemouth refinery worker rightly called for oil and gas workers’ skills not to be considered obsolete, but utterly essential for the just transition. What consideration have Ministers given to the urgent policy recommendations in Project Willow to provide accelerated investment in clean energy infrastructure and the jobs it promises for Grangemouth?
Context
The MP references International Workers' Memorial Day and highlights the call by a Grangemouth refinery worker for oil and gas workers’ skills not to be considered obsolete but essential for the just transition. He asks about the government's response to Project Willow policy recommendations.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
My hon. Friend, who is also a really powerful advocate for his constituents, is absolutely right. Project Willow was left on the shelf by the previous Government. We put the money in to take Project Willow forward and we are now going to implement it. Absolutely crucial to that is ensuring the skills of oil and gas workers are properly used in the future, including with the skills passport which also lay dormant under the previous Government and which we are powering ahead with.
Session: Renewable Energy Sector Job Creation 2025-04-29
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What engagement has the Secretary of State had with political leaders and business sector leaders?
Context
Previous Governments failed to collaborate, and the current Government aims to avoid similar mistakes.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
My hon. Friend gives me the chance to talk about the great success of Wrightbus, based in Ballymena, which has won a huge new order from Go-Ahead. It is making the electric and hydrogen buses of the future, and is taking on more staff.
Session: UK Industrial Strategy 2025-04-02
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Mohamed waited nearly three years for a decision on his asylum application, a period that was extended by the pause in processing Syrian asylum cases. If the Minister will not end the pause, what interim steps will she take to further support host communities such as Falkirk?
Context
Mohamed, an asylum seeker, waited nearly three years for a decision on his application due to the pause in processing Syrian asylum cases.
Angela Eagle
As I said earlier, we are keeping under close review the pause in Syrian asylum applications. We cannot decide asylum applications against a country policy that is no longer relevant because of the rapid change in that country. We will resume those decisions as soon as we can.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-31
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Among the options proposed by Project Willow is a hydrogenated esters and fatty acids plant producing sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel, with the report recommending a delay in implementing the HEFA cap. Is the Department currently considering this action?
Context
The Project Willow report was released last week, proposing various options for sustainable fuel production at Grangemouth. One option is the establishment of a hydrogenated esters and fatty acids plant to produce sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mike Kane)
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his commitment to Project Willow at Grangemouth. We introduced a 2% mandate from 1 January, so 2% of all aviation fuel has to come from sustainable sources. We will be legislating on the revenue certainty mechanism and looking at how we can contribute to the future of that great site.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-27
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I am concerned that failures by Governments, energy companies and local authorities over a number of years have left my constituents paying huge energy costs, with poor connectivity, failure to install smart meters or smart meters not working when they are installed, and not-fit-for-purpose electric heating systems in the Braes villages. Does the Government must do all they can to end fuel poverty, and will he meet me to discuss how to hold accountable those who are responsible for ongoing issues in my constituency?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the failure of previous governments, energy companies, and local authorities in his constituency to address fuel poverty effectively. He mentioned issues with smart meters not working properly and poor electric heating systems.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
My hon. Friend raises important issues about having a tough regulator in Ofgem, ensuring smart meters work properly, and tackling fuel poverty through every decision the Government takes. I was pleased to announce an extension of the warm homes discount to an extra 2.7 million families with an additional £150 next winter to help them.
Session: Warm Homes Plan 2025-03-18
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Over 100 jobs have been lost in Falkirk since September due the previous Government’s failure to keep their commitments to the bus manufacturing sector. We need a plan for bus manufacturing. Has the Minister engaged with the Department for Transport, the bus manufacturing industry or regional mayors, prior to launching the UK bus manufacturing expert panel?
Context
Over 100 jobs have been lost in Falkirk since September due to the previous Government's failure to keep their commitments to the bus manufacturing sector.
Sarah Jones
My hon. Friend asks a very good question. I am very pleased that the Department for Transport today launched the new UK bus manufacturing expert panel. We need to support our bus manufacturing, both for the transition to net zero and for building our businesses in the UK.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-13
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Bus manufacturing needs domestic resilience. Over 100 jobs were recently lost in the Falkirk area because the previous Government failed to support British buses. What does the Minister expect from the bus expert panel next week regarding general increases in domestic procurement?
Context
The question is prompted by the loss of over 100 jobs in Falkirk due to a lack of domestic support in the previous Government's policies.
Georgia Gould (Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
We are committed to supporting UK’s domestic bus manufacturing industry. The new national procurement policy statement aligns with our industrial strategy and pushes us to maximise spend with SMEs. Contracting authorities must now consider how their procurement strategies can support the bus manufacturing strategy.
Session: Public Procurement Support for SMEs 2025-03-06
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The impact of net changes in the Budget is £5.2 billion more for Scotland. That is record funding to invest in our NHS, protect the successes of devolution and fix our local services, but the Scottish Government have squandered the latter opportunity by continuing to underfund our councils, leaving Falkirk council with a £28 million hole to plug after eight years of SNP control. Does the Minister agree that the £5.2 billion secured for Scotland by the Labour Government could have been used to fix local government, but instead the SNP has chosen to leave the people of Falkirk to pick up the bill?
Context
The SNP Government in Scotland has faced criticism for underfunding local councils. Falkirk Council faces a £28 million budget shortfall after eight years of SNP control.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
Not only do I agree with my hon. Friend that the SNP Government are at risk of squandering this historic opportunity for Scotland, but I stress that the SNP Government might like to ask their Members of Parliament why they voted against this historic Budget in Scotland’s interests.
Session: Employer NICs Businesses 2025-03-05
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Falkirk High Street is the beating heart of our district, with recent additions including Barracuda chippy, El Toro Gaucho steakhouse, Greek Theory restaurant and Rock Bottom beer hall. Many Falkirk town centre businesses still raise with me the hardship they have faced because of cost rises and utility, rent and parking increases over a number of years, as well as rental value threshold changes by the Scottish Government, which have contributed to decreased footfall and failing business over a number of years. While I welcome the Government’s commitment to shifting the burden away from the high street, will the Minister outline what further steps he is taking to support my high street, and what engagement he has had with the Scottish Government to support shifting the rate burden away from Falkirk High Street taxpayers?
Context
Local small businesses in Falkirk face hardship due to cost rises and changes in utility, rent, parking increases over years.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
I referred to the establishment of the business growth service in answer to an earlier question. We are working with the Scottish Government to begin to think through how that service can support businesses in Scotland and complement the support already provided by the Scottish Government. We are clear on the need to reform business rates to support retail, hospitality and leisure businesses on the high street. I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend if he thinks there are further initiatives we can take to help small businesses in Falkirk.
Session: Support for High Street Businesses 2025-01-30
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Asylum accommodation hotels were once emergency measures but have now lasted several years because of the mess the Tories made. Scrapping the Rwanda scheme and recommencing the processing of claims has led to a substantially lower backlog than we would have had if we had continued with Tory policies, but there is still much more to do. Will the Minister update the House on progress towards ending asylum hotel accommodation and cutting waiting times for asylum application decisions?
Context
MP highlighted the mess made by the Tories and the progress in processing claims.
The Minister for Border Security and Asylum (Dame Angela Eagle)
We inherited a system where very few decisions were being made. We have ramped up decision making to over 11,000 decisions a month and we are dealing with the backlog.
Session: Asylum Hotels 2025-01-13
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Proper paternity and maternity pay are essential for breaking links between current income and future life opportunities. Currently, one in five fathers does not take available paternity leave because it is financially inadequate. This drives family inequality, increases the gender pay gap as women pick up caring responsibilities, and lowers household income. Does the Minister agree that parental leave is crucial? What actions are Ministers considering to better support parents and families?
Context
One in five fathers does not take paternity leave due to financial inadequacy, driving family inequality and increasing the gender pay gap.
Bridget Phillipson
I strongly agree that we want to give families more choices. Through the Employment Rights Bill, we will make paternity leave available from day one in a new job and enable it after shared parental leave. We will review the system to better support working families.
Session: Future Earnings Impact of Socioeconomic Disadvantage 2024-12-18
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With Petroineos set to close the Grangemouth refinery next year, what consideration has been given to using the role of the national wealth fund to support its rapid conversion into a sustainable aviation fuel facility?
Context
The questioner acknowledges the Government's action with Project Willow but expresses concern over the Grangemouth refinery closure and asks about potential support for its rapid conversion to a sustainable aviation fuel facility.
Sarah Jones
I appreciate the uncertainty faced by people in my hon. Friend's constituency. We have Project Willow and the plan for the site's future. A joint committee, which I co-chair, has just been set up with the Department for Transport looking at sustainable aviation fuel and other options to fund and support that.
Session: National Wealth Fund Opportunities for Industry 2024-12-17
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What discussions has he had with Cabinet colleagues on potential opportunities for industry under the national wealth fund?
Context
The questioner inquires about the potential industrial opportunities stemming from the national wealth fund.
Sarah Jones
The national wealth fund is delivering a key manifesto commitment to set up a Government-backed investor—in some ways like the sovereign wealth funds we see in other countries—that will support the UK's industrial strategy and economic growth. It will play a central role in our clean power mission by creating jobs in rapidly growing green industries.
Session: National Wealth Fund Opportunities for Industry 2024-12-17
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The Scottish Government are bringing back the winter fuel payment because we are aware what an awful disaster this has been for the Labour Government. People are terrified to switch on their heating. Will the Minister please explain to pensioners living in poverty circumstances but not eligible for pension credit what they should do this winter? Should they just wear an extra blanket?
Context
The question is prompted by the Scottish Government bringing back winter fuel payments, highlighting the impact of not having these benefits in place.
Emma Reynolds
The Scottish Government have been given a record settlement in the recent Budget. As the hon. Member knows, winter fuel payments and other benefits are devolved to the Scottish Government.
Session: Winter Fuel Payment Pensioner Poverty 2024-12-16
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I declare an interest as co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group on British buses. The Secretary of State will be aware of the consultation on 160 jobs at Alexander Dennis in my constituency. That shows the requirement for a clear industrial strategy. What assurances can the Minister give me, as part of implementing the industrial strategy, that the Labour Government are working to level the playing field for domestic manufacturers?
Context
The question arises from a consultation on job cuts at Alexander Dennis in the Falkirk constituency, citing an unlevel playing field for domestic manufacturers.
Jonathan Reynolds
I recognise the issue and I welcome my hon. Friend's raising it at the annual dinner of the Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders. It matters to this Government that we make these products in the UK. There have been specific procurement issues, mainly with local areas. I promise him the meeting that he needs to take that forward, but I assure him that the industrial strategy will cover this issue.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-12-12
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Does the Minister agree that billions spent on public procurement must deliver value for taxpayers, and what steps are being taken to ensure efficiency?
Context
The MP emphasized the need for value for money and questioned inefficiencies under previous administrations.
Georgia Gould
Under our system, we need to cut waste and drive efficiency. The previous Government failed to do so during the pandemic. We aim for new transparency and a focus on fraud.
Session: Public Procurement Reform 2024-12-05
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What steps he is taking to reform public procurement. The Procurement Act 2023 commences in February 2025, creating a simpler, more flexible procurement system underpinned by a new mission-led national procurement policy statement to ensure that public procurement delivers on the Government's missions.
Context
The MP asked about steps to reform public procurement following the passage of the Procurement Act 2023.
Georgia Gould
I spent the last few weeks meeting small and medium-sized enterprises, voluntary and community sector organisations, wider businesses and contracting authorities to discuss how we ensure that the approximately £300 billion that is spent each year on public sector procurement delivers for our communities. With this Government, procurement will deliver value for money, better public services and our national missions.
Session: Public Procurement Reform 2024-12-05
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How many current Department employees are unable to receive further sponsorship due to changes in the skilled worker visa salary threshold?
Context
Government changes to the skilled worker visa salary threshold affect current Department employees' sponsorship eligibility.
Andrew Western
The hon. Friend's question is important, and a written follow-up will be provided with the requested information.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-11-11
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The clean power by 2030 mission shows the clear intention of this Government to get on with the just transition. Energy workers in Falkirk, Grangemouth and across the central belt are rightly concerned about jobs. Between 2013 and 2023, under the previous Government, jobs in the UK oil and gas sector halved. Unfortunately, some of the Opposition parties have opposed the stream of funding for clean infrastructure and jobs of the future that will come from an increase in the energy profits levy on the record profits of oil and gas giants. Does the Secretary of State agree that it is time Opposition parties started putting their own plans forward on how they would get on with the just transition and deliver clean energy jobs at a critical time for workers and the climate?
Context
Energy workers in Falkirk and Grangemouth concerned about job security during transition to clean power.
Ed Miliband
My hon. Friend raises the important issue that what will define the future for North sea workers is whether there is a plan for future jobs in offshore wind, carbon capture and hydrogen. There was no plan from the previous Government; this Government are absolutely determined to ensure a just transition for those workers, using the power of Government and a proper industrial policy to make it happen.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-10-08
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
UK Bus Manufacturing
27 January 2026
Responding: Rachel Maclean
Main Concerns
['There were 167 fewer built in the United Kingdom in 2025 compared with 168 in 2024. A stone’s throw away is the sleek, relatively new modern site at Larbert, which hosts the global headquarters of Alexander Dennis. There was a material and harmful chasm between political rhetoric and delivery for UK manufacturers.']
Specific Asks
['The Government need to recognise that the transition to zero emission buses and away from diesel is happening. What British industry needs is not to see its renowned prowess for making diesel buses become a sentimental memory in communities such as Falkirk, but policy certainty and support to scale up and properly compete in the zero emissions market.']
Business of the House 2026-01-22
22 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Norman discussed various topics including the launch of a new autonomous robotics degree at his constituency's university, criticised the hon. Member for Clacton for attending Davos, raised concer...
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...
Business of the House 2025-12-18
18 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Expressed condolences for the Bondi Beach attack, criticised the Labour Government's failure to meet its promises, highlighted issues like rising taxes, cost of living crisis, NHS waiting lists, socia...
Seasonal Work 2025-12-10
10 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion regrets Government policies that are making seasonal, flexible and part-time work more difficult; notes the negative impact on young people in hospitality, leisure and retail sectors due to...
Business of the House 2025-12-04
04 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Expressed sorrow at Sir John Stanley's death, congratulated Joe Root on his test century, criticised the Government for not supporting economic growth with their Budget and for the Prime Minister misu...
Nolan Principles 2025-11-12
12 November 2025
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
I rise to address the Nolan principles, highlighting that despite their importance, they have not been adequately upheld by this Labour Government. The seven Nolan principles are fundamental to public...
Employment Rights Bill 2025-11-05
05 November 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade outlined the Government's commitment to ending exploitative employment practices, supporting fair employers, and enhancing job securit...
Infected Blood Compensation Scheme 2025-10-30
30 October 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Seekers MOD Housing 2025-10-29
29 October 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm plans for the temporary use of Ministry of Defence sites at Cameron barracks in Inverness and at Crowborough training camp in East Sussex to house asylum seekers. The MP rais...
Devolution in Scotland 2025-10-22
22 October 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
I lead this debate as someone who believes in the strength of our family of nations and that we can make people’s lives better through co-operation and partnership by pooling and sharing resources. I ...
Attendance
81.8%
18 of 22 votes
Aye Votes
7
31.8% of votes
No Votes
11
50.0% of votes
Abstentions
4
18.2% 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
DID NOT VOTE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 63 Stand part
Ayes: 348
Noes: 167
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 26
Ayes: 172
Noes: 334
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 9
Ayes: 181
Noes: 335
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 86 stand part
Ayes: 344
Noes: 173
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 25
Ayes: 187
Noes: 351
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 24
Ayes: 184
Noes: 331
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 7
Ayes: 188
Noes: 341
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 185
Noes: 344
Failed
1
PMQs Asked
39
Ministerial Questions Asked
20
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
22
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 649 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-48% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
1.9
Ministerial Questions
+391% above average
This MP:
39
Average:
7.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-35% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
1.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+746% above average
This MP:
20
Average:
2.4
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
5.1
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.2
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+8% above average
This MP:
81.8
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 Euan Stainbank's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.