Bob Blackman
MP for Harrow East
Con
6 May 2010 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I thank the Prime Minister for raising the stabbing at Kingsbury high school yesterday. It is absolutely right that we allow the police to get on with their job of investigating this terrible atrocity; indeed, the police are out there now, providing reassurance to parents and people in the community. I am sure I speak for the whole House when I say that our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and those who witnessed the atrocity. Will the Prime Minister now look at what needs to be done to combat knife crime across the country? It is absolutely wrong that people are carrying knives in the first place—they do not need to—and that they are drawn into such terrible atrocities. We owe it to the victims to ensure that that happens.
Context
Concern over a stabbing incident at Kingsbury high school and its impact on local communities. The question emphasizes the need for action against knife crime.
Keir Starmer
I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising this case: it is one of the most powerful and important things that we do as MPs in this place, particularly when there are such awful cases. He is absolutely right; we must everything that we can to reduce knife crime. There are initiatives and steps that we have taken to remove the accessibility of knives, in relation to where they can be bought. We need to do much more work with our schools and young people to ensure that people do not carry knives, and we need to work with the police and law enforcement to make sure that these incidents are investigated as quickly and effectively as possible.
Assessment
Specific actions or commitments to reduce knife crime were not provided
We Must Everything
Session: PMQs 2026-02-11
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Will the Deputy Prime Minister take concrete steps to ensure that antisemitism is driven out of our country?
Context
Weekly antisemitic protests have been occurring in towns and cities since October 2023, targeting Jewish businesses and restaurants. The chants are described as being antisemitic.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr David Lammy)
I am very grateful to the hon. Gentleman. He and I have worked cross-party on these issues over many years, particularly as I represent Stamford Hill, one of the historic homes of the Jewish community. The rising antisemitism we see and the nature of some forms of protest is intolerable and unacceptable. That is why the Home Secretary has set out her plans. I will continue to work with her closely to drive antisemitism out of this country.
Session: PMQs 2026-01-28
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Over the last two and a half years, our Jewish population have had to put up with hate marches starting outside synagogues. Jewish businesses have suffered hate demonstrations outside. Now shops that store kosher goods have been targeted by demonstrators. What action can the Home Secretary take to make sure that our Jewish population are protected and these evil perpetrators are brought to justice?
Context
The Jewish community has faced hate marches, demonstrations outside businesses and shops storing kosher goods.
Shabana Mahmood
Let me condemn in the strongest possible terms all the antisemitic incidents that the hon. Gentleman has highlighted in his question. This Government will not stand for any antisemitism in our country, and we will take every step we can across Government to wipe out this evil from our society. He will know that I am reviewing police protest powers, and I have already made some announcements on changes that we will make. Lord Ken Macdonald is conducting a review, and I will not hesitate to take further legal steps in order to protect our Jewish community.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-02-09
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T5. To discourage ex-offenders from reoffending, it is crucial that on leaving prison they have a stable home, the opportunity of a job, and a stable network around them to stop them reoffending. However, with the advent of early release, there is a risk that those leaving prison are not given that support before they leave the prison gates. What action will the Minister take to ensure that those leaving prison after completing their sentences actually do not reoffend?
Context
Mr Blackman highlights the importance of stable housing, employment opportunities, and social networks to prevent reoffending after release from prison.
Jake Richards
This is utter nonsense, Mr Speaker—the hon. Gentleman completely misunderstands how our legal system works. The Government understand that lawyers have to represent all sorts of people all the time, and we will stand by that. I gently say to the hon. Gentleman that the shadow Attorney General, while serving on the Tory Front Bench, is currently representing Roman Abramovich, a sanctioned Russian oligarch.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-02-03
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The Secretary of State will well know that the terrorist group Hamas refuse to disarm—in fact, they have forced their brutal rule on the Palestinian people. Equally, aid trucks that are desperately needed in Gaza are looted by Hamas terrorists. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to make sure that the international aid that we all want to see given to the Palestinians is not looted and diverted to Hamas?
Context
The terrorist group Hamas refuses to disarm and has forced their rule on the Palestinian people. Aid trucks desperately needed in Gaza are looted by Hamas terrorists.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
The hon. Member raises two important issues. We agree that the decommissioning of Hamas weapons is a central and crucial part of the 20-point plan. That is why the three issues that we have continually prioritised are the establishment of the Palestinian National Committee, the increase in humanitarian aid and the establishment of the process for decommissioning Hamas weapons. We have put forward proposals based on our experience in Northern Ireland and our expertise, and I believe that we urgently need to make progress as part of phase 2.
Session: Gaza and the West Bank Humanitarian Situation 2026-01-20
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I am concerned that while the Mayor of London and I have discussed the proposed devolution of Great Northern inner services to Transport for London in November, it would be very controversial to introduce such a measure for all Overground and National Rail services. Are the ongoing conversations about the entirety of the network or are they limited to just one service?
Context
The question arises from discussions about extending Transport for London's management to additional commuter services, particularly regarding Great Northern inner services.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
Discussions at present are limited to the potential transfer of services that form part of the Great Northern inner network. This is a complex matter, but I acknowledge the benefits of integrating certain commuter lines into London Overground and making them part of that network if there is agreement with local authorities along those lines.
Session: Transport for London Commuter Services 2026-01-08
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One of the challenges that the NHS faces is dealing with people who are street homeless and who have to go into hospital for treatment. They are then discharged, and it is almost like a rotating saw, unfortunately. What is needed now is targeted funding to ensure that the NHS discharges people to somewhere they have a safe place to live. Will the Minister take up that challenge, particularly at this time of year?
Context
The MP pointed out the challenge that the NHS faces in dealing with people who are street homeless and then discharged from hospitals without a safe place to live.
James Murray (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
The hon. Member is right to point to the fact that people showing up in hospital can often reflect other social issues, whether homelessness, child poverty or other challenges. As a Government, we take tackling homelessness—by which I mean temporary accommodation and rough sleeping—incredibly seriously and we will publish a homelessness strategy shortly.
Session: Support for NHS Patients 2025-12-09
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I thank the Minister for that answer. The last Government approved the new SEND school in Harrow, which is supported on a cross-party basis and by all headteachers in Harrow. At the moment, young children have to travel an hour and a half each way to get to specialist schools, which is costing the taxpayer huge amounts of money, and that is unacceptable for those children with special educational needs. All we need is the Department to give its approval, and that school could go ahead and start almost immediately. If this funding is available, will she make it available to the London borough of Harrow to start the school that everyone wants?
Context
The London borough of Harrow supports the establishment of a new SEND school that was approved by the previous government. Currently, children travel long distances to access specialist education.
The Minister for School Standards (Georgia Gould)
The last Government approved a huge number of things that were not funded, which is why this Government was left with a black hole that we are sorting out. I have travelled around the country talking to parents, and we have heard time and again about how they were failed by the last Government. We are investing in the SEND system. In answer to the hon. Member’s specific question about the school, we will be coming forward with more plans shortly.
Session: SEND Specialist Schools 2025-12-01
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What action will you take to ensure that west London can contribute to the growing UK economy despite current grid limitations?
Context
Development of data centres, industries and housing in west London is hampered by inadequate national grid capacity.
Michael Shanks
We are upgrading the national transmission system and investing in it. It is crucial for future power sources and ensuring we can deliver power to demand centres where there are economic growth opportunities.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-11-18
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I thank the Minister for his answer, but the reality is that chatbots are prompting young people to commit suicide and to self-harm. What action can the Minister take to make sure that these chatbots are taken down and do not give this sort of advice?
Context
The issue of chatbots prompting young people to commit suicide or self-harm has been raised. The Online Safety Act aims to protect users from illegal content, but the extent to which it covers chatbot-related issues remains uncertain.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Kanishka Narayan)
I thank the hon. Member for raising these cases, which are very much in our minds. Each one is a deep tragedy. We have looked very carefully at this issue. Some chatbots, including live search and user-to-user engagement, are in scope of the Online Safety Act 2023, and we want to ensure that enforcement against them, where relevant, is robust. The Secretary of State has commissioned work to make sure that, if there are any gaps in the legislation, they will be looked at fully and robust action will be taken too.
Session: Online Safety 2025-11-12
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Foreign criminals and people who come here illegally are not being deported because of human rights laws, frustrating the public. I understand the Lord Chancellor’s predecessor, now the Home Secretary, is considering changing those laws. Could the Lord Chancellor accept my right hon. Friend's Bill to put it into law so we can deport people who should not be here?
Context
The public are frustrated that foreign criminals and illegal immigrants are not deported due to human rights laws. The Home Secretary is considering changing these laws.
The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (Mr David Lammy)
People are claiming article 8 in particular to thwart removal, which is why we need domestic legislation. I remind the hon. Gentleman that this Government are deporting more foreign criminals than ever before—over 5,000 just in our first year in office.
Session: Human Rights Laws 2025-11-11
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Thankfully, the living hostages have been returned to receive medical attention and go back to their families, but, very sadly, the bodies of the deceased hostages have not all been returned. That is a key element in this ceasefire treaty. What action is the Foreign Secretary taking to ensure that Israel is supported—and, if necessary, that the Palestinians are supported—to identify the bodies of the deceased hostages and that those bodies are returned, so that there can be closure for the families?
Context
Hostages have been returned, but the remains of deceased hostages have not all been recovered.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
The hon. Member makes an immensely important point. We will all have seen the incredibly moving scenes of hostages returning after the most horrendous captivity, and being returned to their families, but there are those who have lost loved ones—those whose loved ones were taken in that barbaric terrorist attack on 7 October—and are still waiting to have their remains returned. I have spoken to families whose loved ones were lost and who have had the remains returned, but I know how difficult this is and that people need to be able to grieve and pay tribute to their loved ones. We are continuing to press for all the hostage remains to be released. We have also offered support—for example, demining capabilities, where there are concerns about ordnance that might prevent the recovery of remains.
Session: Gaza Peace Plan 2025-10-28
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One of the concerns around dragging veterans through lawfare and our courts is the effect on Army recruitment, so what is the Secretary of State’s reaction to Colonel Nick Kitson, the son of General Sir Frank Kitson, saying: ‘How can anyone volunteer to put their life on the line for a Government—indeed a nation—that does not have their back?’
Context
Concerns have been raised about the impact of dragging veterans through legal processes on Army recruitment.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I meet many cadets who are very keen to join the armed forces, and we should pay tribute to all who are offering their services to the nation in defence of the realm. We should not talk down the importance of that recruitment effort. If anybody looks in the round at what we are putting forward, they will think it is reasonable. I have met many veterans who argue—as the Veterans Commissioners have said—that they are not looking for immunity under the law, which is what the legacy Act gave; they are looking for fairness under it, and that is what we will provide.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 Replacement 2025-10-15
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One key way to reduce reoffending is ensuring ex-offenders leaving prison have secure places to live and are not tempted to go back to a life of crime. However, early release often does not prepare for this adequately. What action will the Minister take so that prison governors and those involved in the prison service ensure that ex-offenders go into secure accommodation once they leave prison?
Context
Ex-offenders leaving prison often lack secure places to live, which can lead them back into a life of crime. Ensuring that they have stable housing upon release is crucial in reducing reoffending rates.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Jake Richards)
The hon. Member raises an important point and challenge for the Probation Service as the Sentencing Bill comes to fruition. I was with the Justice Secretary just last week meeting probation staff. Housing is a big challenge, but we will work with colleagues from across Government to ensure that we are up to this challenge. The hon. Member makes a good point, and I will update the House in due course.
Session: Reoffending Rates 2025-09-16
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I welcome the fact that the backlog of those cases will be examined again, and that historical cases will be looked at, but one of the challenges is that whistleblowers in local authorities were sacked under non-disclosure agreements. What advice is the Crown Prosecution Service providing to ensure that those NDAs are removed so that we can get to the truth of what happened with those terrible crimes against young girls?
Context
Bob Blackman highlights the issue of whistleblowers being sacked under non-disclosure agreements, preventing transparency about the truth behind terrible crimes against young girls.
The Solicitor General
The hon. Gentleman refers to a very important issue, which is why I am pleased to tell him that through our flagship Crime and Policing Bill we are working to implement the key recommendations from the Jay review, one of which is including long-overdue mandatory reporting duties for those working with children. It also includes making grooming an aggravating factor in sentencing and crucial changes to address safeguarding loopholes.
Session: Grooming Gangs 2025-09-04
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In Harrow, since the resignation date, many schools report that vacancies are not being filled, and staff feel threatened with redundancy. Schools attribute these issues to the national insurance hikes which penalise their budgets. The MP asked if the Minister will take action to ensure money is provided for school recruitment.
Context
Schools in Harrow are facing staff vacancies and potential redundancies due to the increase in employer national insurance contributions, affecting school budgets.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
The Government are over a third of the way to meeting their plan for change milestone, with 2,300 more teachers in schools and 1,000 more in training compared to last year. The Government have committed significant funding to schools, providing them with over £930 million to support increases in national insurance contributions. An additional £4.7 billion per year by 2028-29 was announced at the spring Budget.
Session: Employer National Insurance Contributions School Redundancies 2025-06-16
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India has hit nine terrorist bases since the conflict began after a terrorist attack on 22 April. Now that there is a fragile peace, what efforts will be made to ensure the removal of these bases?
Context
Following a terrorist attack, India and Pakistan engaged in military activity. The House is concerned about the removal of terrorist bases.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
We condemn the terrorism that led to the military activity. The UK will continue working with close partners to deal with this threat and support efforts on both sides to maintain peace.
Session: Kashmir 2025-05-13
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In previous Parliaments, the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee held inquiries on Rochdale, Rotherham and other towns where sex grooming was taking place. We now know that this is a nationwide problem. We heard from Baroness Casey—then Dame Louise Casey—that there was a problem with Pakistani men and their culture, and that the victims were predominantly white girls in council care. We have evidence that council staff, councillors, social workers and possibly the police have been complicit, or have at least turned a blind eye to the issue, so local inquiries will not be good enough. Will the Minister call for a national, judge-led inquiry, in which witnesses are required to give evidence under oath, so that those who turned a blind eye can be brought to justice?
Context
Previous inquiries in Rochdale, Rotherham and other towns have highlighted that this is a nationwide problem involving Pakistani men and predominantly white girls in council care. Council staff, councillors, social workers and possibly the police may have been complicit or turned a blind eye.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
To answer the hon. Gentleman’s final point, to be clear, national statutory inquiries do not send anyone to prison. He rightly mentioned Baroness Casey and her work in Rotherham, and others’ work in Rochdale. The reason why we know about some of the terrible behaviours is because of the brilliant local inquiries undertaken in those towns. Louise Casey is undertaking a national audit that will report shortly.
Session: Grooming Gangs 2025-05-07
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One of the great frustrations for medical professionals and patients alike is when patients have appointments but do not turn up. What action will the Secretary of State take to ensure that the system penalises people who miss appointments, so that patients can get the treatment they need when they need it?
Context
Medical professionals and patients face frustration when patients do not show up for scheduled appointments.
Wes Streeting
We are absolutely convinced that better use of digital tools will enable us to reduce the number of missed appointments significantly and factor in the likelihood of no-shows, so that we can reduce waste and eliminate inefficiency. I understand the case for penalties that the hon. Gentleman is making but that is not a route we want to go down until we have made those improvements and judged how effective they have been.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-05-06
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Since the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 was passed, local authorities have prevented 1.4 million people from becoming homeless. However, there is still evidence of local authorities refusing to plan to prevent people becoming homeless. Will the Minister take up the private Member’s Bill that I championed the other week, and that was given an unopposed Second Reading, so that we put pressure on the people who should provide the housing, and no one in this country is forced to sleep rough?
Context
The MP mentions a private Member’s Bill that he championed to put pressure on local authorities to prevent people from becoming homeless.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Rushanara Ali)
The hon. Gentleman has done a great deal of cross-party work in support of housing. We have a consultation in place. I am pleased to say that I have met him on a couple of occasions, and he will be aware that we are working hard and at pace to tackle the underlying challenges. There are 164,000 children in temporary accommodation, and rough sleeping has gone up by 164% since 2010. We are determined to take action to deal with the challenges, but that will require concerted work. The Deputy Prime Minister is leading the interdepartmental taskforce on homelessness. I look forward to continuing to work with the hon. Member for Harrow East (Bob Blackman).
Session: Homelessness and Rough Sleeping 2025-04-07
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Yesterday was the anniversary of the attempted genocide of the Azerbaijani people by the Armenians, and I am sure the whole House will issue its condolences for that purpose. In the newly liberated territories of Nagorno-Karabakh, hundreds of mines are still being cleared by hand. What action will the Government offer to support Azerbaijan in removing those mines so that the land can be used for beneficial purposes?
Context
Yesterday marked the anniversary of the attempted genocide by Armenians against Azerbaijan, and there are ongoing demining efforts to clear mines from newly liberated territories.
Stephen Doughty (Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The hon. Gentleman rightly raises the issue of mines. He will know the important role that this country has played in de-mining efforts around the world. I am very happy to write to him with the details of where we are on that in relation to Azerbaijan, and we have discussed that with them on a number of occasions. The most important thing is that we continue to work towards the signing of that peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia so that the people of those two countries, with which we have strong relationships, can live in peace and harmony alongside one another.
Session: Armenia and Azerbaijan Peace Negotiations 2025-04-01
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The hon. Gentleman is right that 99% of internet traffic is carried on undersea cables. Clearly the Russians and other enemies would seek to disrupt that, so will the Minister look at utilising autonomous minesweepers that could be deployed to protect our undersea cables? In particular, will he commit to looking at introducing them in the Black sea, if there is a truce between Russia and Ukraine, so that those cables are protected as well?
Context
Concerns about threats to subsea fibre-optic cables carrying internet traffic, particularly from Russia and other enemies. The question references NATO infrastructure protection.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
The hon. Gentleman is right that subsea fibre-optic cables carry about 99% of our data—many people believe it is satellites, but it is cables. As a country we are investing in new technologies and I expect that, as we get further towards the time when the defence review is published, he will see the ambition we have as a Government to invest more in autonomous systems, not only to support undersea cable protection, but to deal with the threat of Russian submarines and other capability, and other threats to our nations. We will ensure that we invest in our defence capabilities and in supporting those people who serve as well.
Session: Defence of Undersea Infrastructure 2025-03-24
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Will the Minister update the House on what changes, if any, she intends to make to the Equality Act 2010? In particular, if she is going to make caste a protected characteristic, will she ensure that people of all religions that emanate from the Indian subcontinent are consulted, because that measure would severely impact every such family in this country?
Context
There are concerns about the impact of adding caste to protected characteristics under the Equality Act, particularly for communities from the Indian subcontinent.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
We have no plans to change the Equality Act. As my hon. Friend the Member for Feltham and Heston (Seema Malhotra) set out earlier, through the new race engagement group being led by Baroness Lawrence we will consider any such questions, including the ones that the hon. Gentleman identifies.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-03-19
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In London alone, the deficit for this year is estimated to be £313.8 million, but that will grow to £502 million next year unless more money is put in. Clearly, there is a problem that we need to address. Ideally, those with special educational needs should be taught in mainstream education. However, it is much cheaper for local authorities to have in-house provision and special needs schools in the borough, rather than send children to another more expensive borough. Harrow was granted a new special educational needs school under the last Government. Will the Minister confirm that it will proceed? It has the support of all the headteachers and cross-party support.
Context
The MP notes a significant funding shortfall in London's SEND services, projected to worsen without additional investment.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
We recognise the strain that the rising cost of SEND provision is putting on local government, which is why we will be setting out plans to reform the SEND system, with further details to come this year, including how local authorities will be supported to manage their historical and accruing deficits. Decisions on new school provision and buildings will also be made in due course.
Session: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Funding 2025-03-10
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It is estimated that only 3% of the 3.5 million British citizens abroad participated in the last general election. What action can the Electoral Commission and my right hon. and learned Friend take to ensure that people who are eligible to vote can do so in future general elections?
Context
Only a small percentage of eligible British citizens overseas voted in the last general election. Bob Blackman asks about actions to increase voter turnout among this group.
Jeremy Wright (Kenilworth and Southam)
My hon. Friend is right that more can always be done to ensure that all those eligible for the franchise, which now includes a substantial number of overseas voters, understand what they are entitled to, and that we offer them all the assistance we can to participate in the process.
Session: Strategy and Policy Statement 2025-02-27
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Mr Speaker, I rarely agree with Sadiq Khan but the Secretary of State has changed her position regarding the third runway. Will she commit to ensuring that any proposal for a third runway will have a full impact assessment before it is approved or denied?
Context
The question pertains to the government's stance on approving a third runway at Heathrow Airport. It follows discussions about infrastructure and transport policies.
Heidi Alexander
I fully support the Chancellor’s call for fresh proposals. Some airports in the south-east are running near capacity and we cannot pretend this is not an issue. I am prepared to take difficult decisions, but any scheme must meet our legal and environmental obligations.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-02-13
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Blackman noted welcome news about hostage releases but highlighted the continued presence and control of Hamas over Gaza's infrastructure and safety concerns. He asked what reasonable and achievable proposals the British Government will present to ensure that the Palestinian people can return safely, terror tunnels are destroyed, and Hamas does not govern Gaza.
Context
The context is the release of some hostages, highlighting that Hamas remains in control despite these releases. The question focuses on a counter proposal for governance arrangements in Gaza without Hamas involvement.
Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)
Dodds shared the hon. Member's concern and emphasized that the UK Government has been clear that Hamas must not be involved in future governance arrangements. She highlighted the support provided to the Palestinian Authority through reform programs and reconstruction efforts.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 2025-02-06
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I thank my constituency neighbour for that update. The previous Government had more than 15 rounds of trade talks with India before the general election, in both India and the UK. Will the Government ensure that we in the UK gain access to the services market in India, which has previously been denied to UK firms? That is the key issue in our negotiations.
Context
The previous Government had more than 15 rounds of trade talks with India before the general election, in both India and the UK. There is a specific concern about access to the services market in India which has previously been denied to UK firms.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
We are determined to do everything we can to secure a trade deal with India. However, I am not providing a running commentary on our priorities for those trade talks with India as they represent a significant prize for the UK if we can reach an agreement.
Session: Free Trade Agreement India 2025-01-30
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What assessment he has made of the potential impact of Iran’s attacks on Israel on regional stability. Given that Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis are on the brink of defeat, the risk is now that Iran may take direct action. As we want to see an end to the Iranian regime, will sanctions and proscription of the IRGC be implemented to bring the regime to its knees?
Context
In April and October 2024, Iran launched attacks on Israel which destabilised the region. These actions highlight ongoing tensions and potential threats to regional stability.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
We are working urgently on measures to take necessary action to deter the Iranian state from posing a threat to this country and the region. We will continue to update the House in due course.
Session: Iran 2025-01-14
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Will the Minister look at early diagnosis for firefighters because, very sadly, many suffer very bad ill health in retirement? If they are diagnosed early, treatment can be provided to improve the quality and the length of their lives.
Context
The question addresses the importance of early diagnosis in improving the quality and length of life for firefighters who suffer from ill health in retirement.
The Minister for Border Security and Asylum (Dame Angela Eagle)
I agree that this is an important area and that much more work needs to be done to consider effective contaminants and risks from the dangers that firefighters put themselves in every day to protect life.
Session: Firefighters Occupational Diseases 2025-01-13
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Now that prisoners are being released from their sentences early, what action is the Minister taking to ensure that they are fully prepared for life outside prison and there is no risk that they will reoffend?
Context
There is a concern that released prisoners may return to environments associated with crime, increasing the risk of reoffending.
Nicholas Dakin
We know that accommodation is key to reducing reoffending. That is why we are expanding our transitional accommodation service and working closely with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to develop a long-term strategy to put us back on track to ending homelessness.
Session: Prisoner Rehabilitation 2024-12-10
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What steps she is taking to help ensure that prisoners are prepared for life outside of prison before they are released. One of the main issues for released prisoners is finding a secure home, so that they can have somewhere secure to live rather than going back to the place where they were probably involved in gangs or with particular individuals.
Context
There are concerns about the readiness of prisoners for life after release, including securing accommodation and employment.
Nicholas Dakin
We know that accommodation is key to reducing reoffending. That is why we are expanding our transitional accommodation service and working closely with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to develop a long-term strategy to put us back on track to ending homelessness.
Session: Prisoner Rehabilitation 2024-12-10
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The FCA has been completely defensive in response to the report. Since the historical elements quoted by the FCA, 13 major scandals have erupted. I will not intrude on your time, Mr Speaker, because I am sure that you would not want me to list them all, but Woodford Equity, car finance and others have come to light since the details came out. Clearly, there is a need to fundamentally reform the FCA so that victims of scandals are properly compensated and the industry is properly regulated in the way that we would all like to see.
Context
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has faced numerous new scandals since the publication of a report on its historical failures in regulating investment fraud.
Tulip Siddiq
I understand that lots of people have suffered, as the report explains, which I said I have read. However, I do have confidence in the FCA; I have sent it remit letters outlining what we expect it to do to deliver on its objectives. The FCA is looking at certain things such as its rulebook, which we think is too extensive, to look at rules that no longer need to be applied but, overall, we are working with the FCA closely and we believe that it is trying its best. It is not possible to have a system where nothing ever goes wrong, but we are trying to minimise that and ensure that there is consumer protection. The FCA knows that we are working together to deliver on its objectives.
Session: Financial Conduct Authority 2024-12-03
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If she will make an assessment of the potential implications for her policies of the APPG for investment fraud and fairer financial services' publication entitled “Report on the Call for Evidence about The Financial Conduct Authority”, published on 26 November 2024.
Context
The APPG for investment fraud and fairer financial services published a report on the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), raising concerns about historical incidents of investment fraud.
Tulip Siddiq
I read that report with great interest and have a lot of sympathy for those who suffered. However, a lot of the incidents described happened a very long time ago. The FCA has made substantial changes in response to those experiences. That does not mean the end of our engagement with the FCA, but we are continuing to hold it to account and it has made changes since the report came to light.
Session: Financial Conduct Authority 2024-12-03
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I join the Minister in expressing my sympathy to the family of John Prescott. He will be dearly missed across the House and in the other place. The previous Conservative Government allocated £6.6 billion to subsidise the work of Transport for London, particularly to subsidise the fare box during the pandemic. I understand from the Budget that the Chancellor allocated £485 million to TfL, but the figure may include £220 million already announced to finance Elizabeth line trains. If that is discounted, that leaves £265 million. Can the Minister confirm that the position is that the Government have suspended the de facto right of the Mayor of London to freeze fares and that they are requiring an inflation-busting 4.6% rise in fares in London?
Context
The previous Conservative Government provided £6.6 billion to subsidise TfL during the pandemic, with a current allocation of £485 million, possibly including £220 million already announced.
Mike Kane
This is a devolved matter. At the Budget we announced £485 million in capital funding for Transport for London. Shortly afterwards, the local transport Minister, my hon. Friend the Member for Wakefield and Rothwell (Simon Lightwood), and the deputy Mayor met to discuss that. It is a matter for Transport for London. I am sure the hon. Member has a first-class relationship with the Mayor and I am sure he will press him on it.
Session: Transport for London 2024-11-21
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What recent discussions she has had with the Mayor of London on financial support for Transport for London.
Context
No specific background provided, but the question follows an initial question about discussions with the Mayor of London.
Mike Kane
Mr Speaker, as maritime Minister, I pay tribute to John Prescott both for his life at sea and for introducing the tonnage tax back in 2000 as Secretary of State for Transport, which secured the UK's position as a world leader in maritime services and trained a new generation of seafarers. We continue to work collaboratively with City Hall, Transport for London and other mayors on long-term transport plans, providing lasting benefits for the public and the economy.
Session: Transport for London 2024-11-21
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The spread of fake news and disinformation on social media fuels extremism and undermines democracy. What safeguards are the Government putting in place to combat this serious issue?
Context
There is growing concern about fake news and disinformation on social media platforms fuelling extremism and impacting democratic processes.
Peter Kyle
The Online Safety Act 2023 requires providers to consider how algorithms impact exposure to illegal content and harmful content for children. New measures have been introduced to ensure children's safety online.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-11-20
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Will the Secretary of State look at improving NHS communications, particularly regarding vital safety information for drugs like sodium valproate?
Context
The MP highlights the importance of NHS communications and requests urgent attention to a medication information issue faced by victims.
Wes Streeting
Improvements are being made to the NHS app and efforts are ongoing with the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology to make Government-held information more accessible for citizens.
Session: NHS Health and Social Care Reform 2024-11-19
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What plans does he have to maintain the UK's role in NATO?
Context
The question arises from the UK's strategic defence review and the need to maintain a strong alliance with NATO in light of changing international dynamics.
John Healey
NATO remains central to Euro-Atlantic security; our commitment is unshakable. The strategic defence review will embed a NATO-first policy in Britain's defence plans for the future.
Session: UK Role in NATO 2024-11-18
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What action will the Secretary of State take to show leadership and ensure that other European countries step up and keep Europe safe from external threats such as Russia, China and beyond?
Context
Following the election of President Trump in the United States, there is pressure on other NATO countries to increase their defence spending and resources.
John Healey
Our commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP will help set the pace in NATO, with 23 nations now meeting or exceeding the pledge level of 2%. The UK commits almost all its armed forces and nuclear deterrent to NATO.
Session: UK Role in NATO 2024-11-18
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Women fleeing domestic violence are vulnerable and in desperate need of support and help, but often local authorities, which are supposed to help, do not enable women to get a place to live or receive their benefits. In the last Parliament, we tried to make sure that women in such circumstances could have a relative claim their benefits. What action will the Minister take to ensure that those women are given the support that they need in their desperate times?
Context
Women seeking refuge from domestic abuse often face bureaucratic hurdles and lack of support when trying to access benefits and housing.
Jess Phillips
I could not agree more with the hon. Gentleman, and I remember his valiant efforts during the passage of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. The Government have committed to ensuring that local connection does not apply in cases such as those he talks about. With regard to benefits, the Department for Work and Pensions is very much part of the mission group on violence against women and girls, and I will absolutely raise his points. We will seek to make sure that when and wherever people crop up with these issues, their local authorities and local systems are in place.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2024-11-13
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The provision of blue-light escorts is clearly a matter of operational policing, but last week my colleagues on the London Assembly wrote to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster asking for an inquiry into the provision of tickets to politicians and the pressure then applied to the Metropolitan police. Will the right hon. Gentleman conduct a review so that we can see what happened and ensure this does not happen again?
Context
A recent incident involving a blue-light escort for a politician, including the Labour Mayor of London, raised concerns about operational decisions.
Pat McFadden
These are operational decisions for the police, but I am glad that the person who is currently the biggest pop star in the world was able to play in London following the threat of a terrorist attack at her previous concerts.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-10-24
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Homelessness: Funding
02 December 2025
Responding: Alison McGovern
Main Concerns
['Homelessness is rising in England; in 2024, 300,000 individuals and families experienced severe homelessness, a 22% increase from 2022. Homeless Link estimates that 8,732 people were rough sleeping in June 2025, up by 5%. London Councils reports that the capital accounts for over half of all homeless households living in temporary accommodation in England.']
Specific Asks
['The Government needs to set out a clear direction in its homelessness strategy and make serious reform to funding models to address major drivers of homelessness. The strategy should prioritize prevention and securing stable housing with support as quickly as possible.']
Ending Homelessness
21 October 2025
Responding: Alison McGovern
Main Concerns
['The debate addresses the moral and practical crisis of homelessness in the UK. Each day, over 4,600 people wake up on the streets without certainty about where they will sleep that night. More than 132,000 households live in temporary accommodation with constant instability, and more than 172,000 children go to school knowing their accommodation is substandard and insecure. Local authorities are spending nearly £5 million every day on poor-quality temporary housing.']
Specific Asks
["The lead MP asks the Minister when the Government will publish and deliver its promised cross-Government strategy for homelessness and confirms that the interministerial group will continue to meet regularly under the Secretary of State's chairmanship. He also suggests his private Member’s Homelessness Prevention Bill as a vehicle to support this work."]
Lord Mandelson: Government Response to Humble Address Motion
12 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Sudan 2026-02-05
05 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran 2026-02-03
03 February 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the Government’s actions regarding the brutal crackdown on protesters in Iran? The MP is concerned about the scale of violence and brutality, including reports of tens of tho...
Holocaust Memorial Day 2026-01-29
29 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The hon. Member for Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket opened the debate by highlighting the importance of Holocaust Memorial Day, especially in the context of recent events in Gaza which have polarized c...
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...
Business of the House 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP expressed concern over the lack of full costing in the strategic defence review, resulting in delays to the Defence Investment Plan. He highlighted issues faced by local businesses such as the ...
West Midlands Police 2026-01-14
14 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran 2026-01-13
13 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Business of the House 2026-01-08
08 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP expressed dissatisfaction with the Government’s practice of making significant policy announcements when Parliament is not sitting. He cited several examples of U-turns on policies related to i...
Christmas Adjournment 2025-12-18
18 December 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
The Conservative MP for Harrow East highlighted improvements in local governance, including increased spending on roads and highways, introduction of free parking, and efforts to combat fly-tipping. H...
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
46
Ministerial Questions Asked
100
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
22
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 649 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+3% above average
This MP:
2
Average:
1.9
Ministerial Questions
+480% above average
This MP:
46
Average:
7.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+30% above average
This MP:
2
Average:
1.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+4129% above average
This MP:
100
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 (%)
+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 Bob Blackman's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.