Shockat Adam
MP for Leicester South
Ind
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
This week, the Israeli Government approved a plan to officially conquer Gaza. Just yesterday, Minister Smotrich vowed that Gaza will be “entirely destroyed” and that the Palestinians will have to “leave in great numbers to third countries.” This follows the extermination of over 50,000 Palestinian men, women and children, and the simultaneous expansion of illegal settlements in the west bank—something I witnessed with my own eyes last week. Will the Prime Minister now finally acknowledge that ethnic cleansing is under way and end all UK military co-operation with Israel, especially the illegal provision of F-35 fighter jet parts, or will he risk making Britain complicit in war crimes and be the Prime Minister to see Britain answer at The Hague for its role in this atrocity?
Context
The Israeli government approved a plan to conquer Gaza, and Minister Smotrich vowed the destruction of Gaza with Palestinians leaving in large numbers. This follows over 50,000 Palestinian casualties and illegal settlement expansion.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
Most of what the hon. Gentleman says is simply not right, but I want to address the position in Gaza and the west bank, because it is increasingly intolerable. I am deeply concerned, particularly with the lack of aid getting in and the impact that that is having on hundreds of thousands of individuals. That concern is something I recently reaffirmed to the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, where I asserted again that a two-state solution is the only viable approach for peace. Our focus is on delivering peace for Palestinians and Israelis, returning to the ceasefire, getting the hostages out, and getting in the humanitarian aid that is desperately needed in greater number and more quickly.
Assessment
Did not acknowledge ethnic cleansing or commit to ending military cooperation with Israel.
Most Of What The Hon. Gentleman Says Is Simply Not Right
Session: PMQs 2025-05-07
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Every day, pensioners in my Leicester South constituency are emailing me with one word: “frightened.” Susan, who has pulmonary fibrosis, wrote: “During winter I rarely go out as it's too cold for my lungs. I need to keep warm and the heating on. The winter fuel payment was really helpful. I want MPs to know not all pensioners are millionaires (or receive gifts from millionaires), nor do we all get the higher rate of pension”. Susan is frightened that she will not be able to keep her house warm this winter, and she is not alone. Does the Prime Minister realise how frightening it is for the 8,100 pensioners in my constituency who have lost their winter fuel payment? As the winter months start to bite, will he come to Leicester to explain to Susan why he thinks this policy is not frightening?
Context
Pensioners in Leicester South are concerned about the loss of their winter fuel payments and struggling to keep warm during colder months.
Keir Starmer
As the hon. Member knows, the No. 1 job of this Government was to get our finances back in order after the mess that the last Government made, including leaving a £22 billion black hole. We had to make tough choices. The Opposition say that they want the benefits, but cannot say how they are going to pay for them. We want to make sure that the most vulnerable pensioners get the pension credit that they are entitled to. We are driving that up, and because we are stabilising the economy we can commit to the triple lock. That means a £460 uplift in the pension next year, so every pensioner will be better off under a Labour Government.
Assessment
The response did not address the specific question about visiting Leicester but focused on general economic policies and benefits for pensioners.
The No. 1 Job Of This Government
Making Tough Choices
Session: PMQs 2024-12-04
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Can the Minister support my call for appointing a dedicated Minister for tackling knife crime?
Context
A recent fatal incident involving knife crime led to calls for a dedicated Minister for tackling the issue.
Sarah Jones
I am that dedicated Minister and have campaigned on this issue, but did not provide additional specifics beyond the existing role.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-02-09
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When will the Government announce the results of their British industrial competitiveness scheme consultation? The scheme will provide a discount to up to 7,000 manufacturing businesses. How can this help my constituency’s fabulous manufacturing industry and reduce its energy costs?
Context
The British industrial competitiveness scheme aims to provide significant discounts on energy costs for up to 7,000 manufacturing businesses.
Chris McDonald
The hon. Gentleman is right that the British industrial competitiveness scheme will provide a significant discount on energy costs to up to 7,000 manufacturing businesses. The Government are currently undertaking a review and we will announce the results of the consultation in due course.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-01-29
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Sitting down to watch a football game with my young family the other day, my wife commented, “Are you watching football, or are you watching a gambling show?” She had a point. Last October, a match between Man City and Wolves had over 5,000 visible gambling ads during the game. Gambling destroys lives and is responsible for close to 500 suicides a year. What consideration is the Department giving to addressing this pressing and devastating issue?
Context
A match between Manchester City and Wolves had over 5,000 visible gambling ads during the game. Gambling is linked to close to 500 suicides a year in the UK.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts (Ian Murray)
It is a pressing issue that has been recognised, particularly by the Premier League, which has banned shirt sponsorship from next season. A number of robust rules are already in place to ensure that adverts are not targeted at, and do not strongly appeal to, children and those at risk of harm. The Government are looking at this issue very seriously, and I hope the hon. Gentleman comes to the Westminster Hall debate this afternoon.
Session: Gambling Advertising 2026-01-15
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Failed private finance initiative schemes from the noughties in three Leicester hospitals resulted in the NHS being sued for almost £30 million, despite no work being carried out. Leicester hospitals are still without any new buildings. I ask the Minister that expensive, inefficient financial packages—£60 billion of private money costing £306 billion of taxpayers’ money—not be utilised for future projects.
Context
Failed private finance initiative schemes from the early 2000s in Leicester hospitals led to costly legal disputes without providing any new buildings for the NHS. The questioner asks about future financial arrangements for NHS infrastructure.
Wes Streeting
This Government are putting record levels of capital investment into the NHS to correct more than 14 years of Conservative failure. We are using public investment. We are certainly learning the lessons of the past in relation to PFI. We are able to do that only because people voted Labour and elected a Labour Government. I look forward to working with the city’s Labour MPs to deliver the improvements in services that it deserves.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-01-13
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In addition to police officers, our police staff play a vital role in fighting crime. However, a freeze in recruitment of those staff has led to police officers being taken off the beat to fill support staff roles, meaning fewer officers on our streets. Can the Secretary of State shed some light on the situation and commit to relaxing the rules on recruiting more support staff?
Context
A freeze in police support staff recruitment has led to officers being deployed to fill these roles, reducing their visibility on the streets.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Shabana Mahmood)
That is why we have our neighbourhood policing guarantee: to get those police officers back on the beat and in neighbourhoods, providing reassurance and dealing with the types of crimes that we know are going up, which have a huge and deleterious effect on our communities. Of course, total funding for territorial police forces and counter-terrorism policing will be up to £19.5 billion, which is an increase on 2025-26.
Session: Police Efficiency 2026-01-05
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On determining awards for public contracts, what steps are being taken to prioritise UK firms in public procurement, especially for the provision of vital equipment, like personal protective equipment, in our NHS?
Context
The previous Government made progress on buying British through the Procurement Act 2023.
Chris Ward (The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
We are going to bring forward plans, hopefully in the next Session, to reform procurement rules. A big part of that, as the Chancellor has said many times, is to help people to buy British more, and to support local jobs and economies around the country. Despite all their other failings, the previous Government did make some progress on this matter through the Procurement Act 2023, and we will build on that in the next Session.
Session: Public Contracts Trade Union Recognition 2025-12-04
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Teachers across Leicester South, where, in some areas, child poverty is unfortunately near 70%, tell me that student anxiety and poor health are rising, partly driven by insecure, damp and cold housing. Schools are unfortunately being forced to act as frontline welfare services, absorbing pressures that should never fall on teachers alone, such as helping people to fill in forms. Will the Minister reassure them that the child poverty strategy, which is to be published this week, will address the link between child poverty and poor health?
Context
Child poverty is near 70% in some areas of Leicester South, with teachers reporting increased student anxiety and poor health. The MP wants to ensure the strategy addresses these issues.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
Yes, we are looking at that question and at the issue of temporary accommodation that the hon. Member raises. This is a cross-Government strategy and not for the Department for Education to solve alone, although the lifting of the two-child limit is an investment not just in our children and their life chances but in our schools and education. I have heard too many stories of teachers and staff across the country having to pick up the pieces because of wider societal failure. Ending the two-child limit rights that wrong, and invests in our young people.
Session: Child Poverty Strategy 2025-12-01
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Mr Adam questioned what the Department is doing to ensure that provisions and services for young people get support so they can play during winter months when outdoor facilities are not accessible.
Context
Youth services and clubs in Leicester South rely on indoor sports facilities but due to poor maintenance, many buildings have become unsafe. An example was given of a youth community sports hall shutting down due to reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete issues.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right and makes an important point. Youth services are vital for giving young people safe, healthy and fulfilling lives. Under the last Government, 1,200 youth centres closed their doors and 4,500 youth workers lost their jobs.
Session: Youth Services 2025-11-27
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Hundreds of my constituents in Leicester South installed external cladding as part of the ECO4 scheme. Despite using TrustMark contractors, they have been left to pay hundreds of thousands of pounds in fines because those contractors failed to obtain correct planning permission. When these homeowners approach the contractors to complain, they discover that all the contractors have gone bust. These are not rich people and they now face stress and financial hardship. Will the Minister please meet me and my Highfields residents to discuss how this issue can be redressed?
Context
The ECO4 scheme, intended to provide home improvements, has left some constituents in Leicester South facing significant financial penalties due to contractors failing to obtain correct planning permissions. These contractors have since gone bankrupt, leaving homeowners with substantial debts.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Martin McCluskey)
I share the hon. Member’s concerns about this issue, which is the result of a shocking dereliction of duty by the previous Government in the oversight of these schemes. I am aware of the particular situation in Leicester, and we are undertaking specific work to engage with the community there to ensure that people take up the offer of an audit and therefore get their homes remediated. I am more than happy to meet the hon. Member and any affected Members who have this situation with ECO4 in their constituency.
Session: ECO4 Scheme TrustMark Standards 2025-11-18
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A constituent contacted me in a severe state of distress because she is a victim of sexual abuse. Unfortunately, her distress is compounded by the fact that her criminal trial date has been postponed not once but twice, while her perpetrator is walking free in her neighbourhood. This is causing her immense anxiety and impacting her mental health. Will the Solicitor General outline what support the justice system can give to my constituent and other victims of severe sexual violence, especially given long court delays, and what steps she will take to ensure that no victim is left to feel abandoned by the system again?
Context
A constituent contacted Shockat Adam in severe distress due to being a victim of sexual abuse, with their criminal trial date postponed twice. This has caused significant anxiety and impacted mental health.
The Solicitor General
I am very sorry to hear about the experience of the hon. Gentleman’s constituent, and I am sure our thoughts are with them. This Government inherited a justice system in crisis, with a record and rising Crown court caseload. Next year, we will fund the Crown courts to run at record levels to tackle the outstanding caseload, by funding 110,000 sitting days. The independent review of the criminal courts considered how to improve overall criminal court efficiency to provide swifter justice for victims, including victims of sexual offences.
Session: Support for Victims of Crime 2025-11-13
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At a recent roundtable at the Eyres Monsell club for young people in my constituency, parents told me that their young adults with learning difficulties, who volunteered for years, often with major supermarkets, still struggle to secure work. What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that young people with high-functioning learning disabilities in long-term volunteering roles can access clear pathways into paid employment?
Context
The MP highlighted a roundtable discussion where parents expressed concerns about their young adults with learning difficulties struggling to secure work despite volunteering.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
The hon. Gentleman raises a very good point. He will have seen, as many hon. Members will have done, recent publicity about a particular case of this kind. At the moment, the proportion of people with severe learning disabilities who are in employment is tiny, so we are working with employers and some very good supported internship programmes in the hope of opening up opportunities for work, and I hope we will see many more opportunities in the future.
Session: Employment People with Health Conditions 2025-10-27
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What is the Minister doing to ensure that parents’ health and mental wellbeing are being prioritised in this very adversarial process?
Context
Over 50% of parents of children with special educational needs have admitted to neglecting their own health.
Georgia Gould
I, too, have heard from too many parents who have had to give up their jobs or fall behind on their health, as the hon. Member has set out, because they are having to fight in a very adversarial system. We are determined to reform the system so that support is available at the earliest opportunity for young people, so that parents can collaborate with schools and are supported, and we are rebuilding the support around families.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-10-20
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Youth services deliver huge benefits to our community, both socially and economically, reducing knife crime and antisocial behaviour and, in turn, saving the country £500 million a year. Yet the clubs that I meet in my constituency, including Wesley Hall youth club and Eyres Monsell club for young people, tell me that there is a real recruitment and retention crisis in the sector. With over 4,500 workers leaving in the past decade, what measures is the Minister taking to address this issue?
Context
The Member highlights the benefits of youth services and raises concerns about a recruitment and retention crisis affecting workers.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
The hon. Member is absolutely right to outline the importance of youth services, particularly in the prevention of knife crime and other issues. Of course, we saw a 73% reduction in real-terms spending over the last 14 years under the Conservative Government. We will not be able to reverse that overnight, but that is why we look forward to our youth strategy, which will be published by the end of the year.
Session: Youth Services Funding 2025-10-16
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Every night, over 1,000 children are homeless in my city; they are either in temporary accommodation, or even worse off. Does the Minister agree that this is totally unacceptable for a modern society, and that the Government must bring forward its cross-departmental plan to tackle youth homelessness?
Context
Shockat Adam highlighted the issue of homelessness in Leicester, noting that over 1,000 children are homeless each night and living in temporary accommodation.
The Minister for Local Government and Homelessness (Alison McGovern)
I refer the hon. Gentleman to what I just said to the Chair of the Select Committee, but let me confirm again that any child in temporary accommodation, particularly B&B accommodation, who has not got enough space to do their homework pays the price—not just through what they are going through today, but in the future. We cannot accept that. We cannot stand for it, and we should work together across this House to bring this to an end.
Session: Homelessness 2025-10-13
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What is the Secretary of State doing to ensure that the next generation of Palestinians can access education, alongside launching a bespoke visa system that enables students to come to study here in the UK? If not, why not?
Context
More than 660,000 Gazan children are being denied schooling for the third consecutive year due to Israeli bombardment which has destroyed more than 1,000 buildings in Gaza.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
The hon. Gentleman is right to raise with the House the plight of children in Gaza. Yesterday I mentioned my concerns about malnourished children and what that does for their educational outcomes. Yesterday he will have heard the Home Secretary and myself undertake to do more to support students with full scholarships to come to our country.
Session: Gaza Evacuation of UK Scholarship Students 2025-09-02
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What financial commitment is the Department making to secure academic jobs, especially in subjects such as chemistry, humanities, and languages?
Context
Universities in Leicester are facing significant financial difficulties, including making hundreds of redundancies and shutting down faculties.
Bridget Phillipson
The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that universities are independent institutions able to make their own decisions about financial management. We have sought to stabilise the higher education sector, which is why we increased tuition fees. Later this year, a post-16 strategy will deal with many of his questions.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-07-21
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The Crown court backlog stands at approximately 73,000 cases annually, and rape and sexual assault trials in Leicester Crown court face delays of up to three years. What steps is the Department taking to reduce that backlog and ensure that serious offences are brought to trial more efficiently to prevent further trauma for victims and the miscarriage of justice?
Context
The Crown court backlog is particularly concerning in Leicester, where rape and sexual assault trials face delays of up to three years.
Shabana Mahmood (Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice)
I will happily look at the details of the case that the hon. Lady raises. Some of that relates to charging and what the police and others are doing, but I will ensure that she gets a full response from across Government on some of the specifics. Let me observe that we make a whole range of victim support available to victims as they navigate the criminal justice system, and we will continue to do so; I recommend that she recommends some of those mechanisms to her constituent.
Session: Crown Court Backlog 2025-07-08
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A recent freedom of information request by the Royal National Institute of Blind People found that thousands of recipients whose primary health condition is listed as eye disease are set to lose out from the reforms to PIP, with referrals to the RNIB’s counselling services more than doubling since the Secretary of State announced the reforms. There are over 3,500 people in Leicester with sight impairment. What is her Department doing to help those constituents, given these harmful changes to PIP?
Context
Shockat Adam refers to his work with the all-party parliamentary group on eye health and visual impairment. He cites a recent FOI request by RNIB indicating that thousands of recipients with primary condition as eye disease will lose out from PIP reform, with referrals to RNIB's counselling services doubling.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Liz Kendall)
I would say to the hon. Gentleman that nine out of 10 people who are claiming PIP when these changes come into place will be unaffected by them. We are going to see 750,000 more people claiming PIP by the end of this Parliament compared with when we were elected, and, even with these changes, spending will still be £8 billion higher.
Session: Severely Disabled People East Worthing and Shoreham 2025-06-23
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I recently visited the west bank and the Occupied Palestinian Territories where I saw a systematic process of one community being taken over by another, with Israeli Government building walls and fences to protect the settler community. The Secretary of State is aware that Mo Mowlam achieved peace in Northern Ireland through engagement with both sides leading to walls and fences being broken down and mutual respect. Will the Government commit to using these lessons from Northern Ireland's peace process to help secure a lasting peace in the Middle East?
Context
Shockat Adam recently visited the west bank and Occupied Palestinian Territories, witnessing a systematic process of one community taking over another, with walls and fences being built. He also noted Mo Mowlam's success in securing peace in Northern Ireland through engagement.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I share with the hon. Member and the whole House a wish to see lasting peace in the middle east, however, what is happening at the moment is appalling and intolerable. The most important lesson from the Good Friday agreement was the courageous political leadership shown by the parties to the conflict, such as John Hume and David Trimble, sadly that same level of leadership is currently absent in the Middle East.
Session: Good Friday Agreement Lessons Learned 2025-05-21
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The right hon. Member for Hayes and Harlington (John McDonnell) raised a point of order yesterday following the Department’s failure to respond to a letter from a number of hon. Members asking the Secretary of State to come to the House to make a statement on alarming research that shows that the UK continues to send large-scale exports of lethal weaponry to Israel. May I beseech the Secretary of State to make a statement to the House on this matter? If he is not willing to do so, can he confirm that all statements that he has made in this House since September 2024 relating to arms exports to Israel have been completely accurate and fully transparent?
Context
A point of order was raised regarding the Department's failure to respond to a letter about arms exports to Israel.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
Yes, I can.
Session: Topical Questions 2025-05-13
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Today is the anniversary of the killing of the 33-year-old ex-Royal Marine James Henderson, who was killed by the Israelis among seven aid workers with the World Central Kitchen. A year later, as the hon. Member for Glasgow South West (Dr Ahmed) has mentioned, mass graves have been found with eight bodies of those who worked for the Red Crescent and the Red Cross. That comes two weeks after eight aid workers from the Al-Khair Foundation were killed. It is believed that 1,500 aid workers have been killed. Does the Minister believe that it is illegal under international law to kill aid workers and, if so, what is he prepared to do about it?
Context
The MP references the deaths of aid workers on the one-year anniversary of James Henderson's death and expresses concern about ongoing violence against aid workers.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for giving me the opportunity to comment. Today is indeed the one-year anniversary of the appalling strike on the World Central Kitchen convoy, which killed seven people, including British citizens John Chapman, James Henderson and James Kirby. I would like to pay tribute to their bravery and remember again the appalling tragedy of that day. I, alongside the Foreign Secretary, met their families in November. They are determined to see justice for their family members, and I know that the whole Chamber will be united in that determination. Israel’s Military Advocate General must quickly and thoroughly conclude their consideration of the strike, including determining whether criminal proceedings should be initiated. As the hon. Gentleman has said, Gaza is now the most dangerous place in the world to be an aid worker. This cannot continue.
Session: Middle East 2025-04-01
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Parents whose children have special educational needs and disabilities do not wish to send their children to far-away schools, but they have to, because of a lack of local provision. If the children are over the age of 16, however, it is at the discretion of the local authority to decide whether to meet the cost of transporting them to school, even though education is effectively compulsory until the age of 18. Many local authorities, including in Leicester South, are now passing that cost entirely on to parents. Will the Minister commit to dealing with SEND transport costs in the Department’s work to reduce the cost of sending children to school?
Context
Parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities face financial burdens when local schools lack the necessary provision, requiring them to send their children to far-away schools.
Stephen Morgan
I will happily meet the hon. Member to discuss those issues further.
Session: Schooling Costs 2025-03-10
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Does the Secretary of State agree that children cannot be held accountable for their parents' actions or is this a policy of collective punishment? Also, will she acknowledge the government's support for Gaza despite difficult decisions?
Context
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in the loss of over 47,000 lives, including numerous children and aid workers. The questioner raises concerns about contextual reporting and accountability.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Lisa Nandy)
Agrees that children should not be held responsible but notes importance of context in reporting. Acknowledges the UK's support efforts through humanitarian funding and diplomatic engagement despite challenging decisions.
Session: Gaza BBC Coverage 2025-02-27
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Will the Foreign Secretary, who has refused to call out the Israeli Government for war crimes, refuse to ban all arms sales, acknowledge that a genocide is happening, or even consider economic sanctions, accept the reality of the situation and the proposal by Trump and Netanyahu for ethnic cleansing in Gaza?
Context
The MP criticized the UK government for refusing to condemn Israeli actions as war crimes and rejecting calls for sanctions against Israel.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
We are focused on implementing a ceasefire that holds through to phase 2. Discussions have been ongoing with Arab leaders regarding the future governance of Gaza.
Session: Palestinians in Gaza US Policy 2025-02-25
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I would like to thank the Minister for her update yesterday, which was greatly appreciated. Does she agree with me that we are standing on the precipice of a new and dangerous world order, leaving behind one that based global peace on global justices that we have recognised? Close to 48,000 Palestinian men, women and children have been killed, while hundreds of thousands are returning to the rubble that was once their homes and, as we speak, mothers are looking for their children in the rubble. Is this not the time to categorically use the same words we use for other conflicts, and call this out for what it is: the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people? We must immediately recognise a Palestinian state, and can we stand up to President Trump and tell him that Gaza is not for sale?
Context
MP expressed concern over the new world order, displacement threats by powerful figures, and called for recognition of a Palestinian state to counter ethnic cleansing.
The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)
As I stated in response to the question from the hon. Member for Ceredigion Preseli, the UK has been and will continue to be an advocate for the international rules-based order, which is incredibly important. We need to see those rules upheld by all, and of course we will continue to advocate for that at the UN in relation to all countries. I agree with the hon. Member about the horrendous situation so many Gazans are facing.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 2025-02-06
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I refer the House to my registered interests. Last year, the Leicestershire police panel raised serious concerns about being underfunded with a real-terms cut of 20% over the past 13 years, leading to insufficient manpower for night-time patrols. There has been a wave of burglaries in local businesses including Christopher James Deli, Loros and Spice Bazzar among eight that have been smashed and grabbed over the past two months. At the local crime summit I arranged to discuss this situation, one owner Jaskaran Dutta said: 'We do everything we can to survive in this incredibly difficult economic time. All we ask is that the government supports us by improving policing and security'. What is the Secretary of State doing to address these concerns?
Context
Referencing concerns raised by the Leicestershire police panel about underfunding and manpower shortages, and highlighting specific incidents of burglary in Clarendon Park area.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Yvette Cooper)
Under the previous Conservative Government, neighbourhood policing was decimated. The proportion of people who said that they never saw the police on the beat doubled. They took police off the beat and did not put them back, which is why we are setting out a neighbourhood policing guarantee. We have increased funding for police forces by £1 billion next year, including £100 million specifically to kickstart recruitment for neighbourhood policing.
Session: Neighbourhood Policing 2025-01-13
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Will the Minister write to all public bodies to make it crystal clear that the state should not be sanctioning race-based hiring policies?
Context
Concerns about the message sent to young people regarding race and employment opportunities, citing existing laws against racial discrimination.
Seema Malhotra
The right hon. Lady will be aware that it is illegal to discriminate in the way she has described. I will certainly ensure that her question is followed up with the relevant colleagues.
Session: Discrimination Against Ethnic Minorities 2024-12-18
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I welcome that response from the Minister. Gambling addiction destroys lives. In fact, on average, 496 gambling-related suicides occur every year. It is not just the lives of the gamblers that get destroyed; there is an invisible group of victims—the families who have to pick up the pieces. A local charity in my constituency—Spinney Hill drugs, alcohol and addiction support—told me of a talented young man from a deprived socioeconomic background whose family saved every single penny to send him to university. He spent that and more on gambling because of his addiction. The family are now in spiralling debt, and the whole family unit has been destroyed. Does the Minister agree that gambling companies should pay a levy to help compensate families, especially when children are becoming addicted?
Context
A local charity in Leicester South highlighted the devastating impact of gambling addiction on a young man from a deprived socioeconomic background and his family. The situation includes financial ruin, debt, and destruction of familial relationships.
Alex Davies-Jones
The Government recently announced a mandatory levy on gambling companies directly to provide support and NHS-led services. The comments will be passed to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport for further action.
Session: Gambling-related Crime Support for Victims 2024-12-10
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What steps her Department is taking through the criminal justice system to help support victims of gambling-related crimes?
Context
The question arises from the need to address the significant number of victims affected by gambling addiction and related crimes. The issue is compounded by the impact on families and communities, with an average of 496 gambling-related suicides annually.
Alex Davies-Jones
The Government are determined to provide support for all victims of crime and have publicly consulted on a new revised victims code in the new year. A legally mandated levy on gambling companies has been announced by the Minister for Gambling to address gambling harm and introduce NHS-led treatment and support.
Session: Gambling-related Crime Support for Victims 2024-12-10
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What steps she is taking to increase the availability of breakfast clubs in primary schools?
Context
Child poverty in Southend West and Leigh is high with a rate of 12.1%. Food bank use has risen by 433% over the last five years.
Stephen Morgan
Schools with primary age pupils can apply now for early adopters of the universal free breakfast club programme starting April 2025. Up to 750 schools will be funded to provide access to a free universal breakfast club lasting at least 30 minutes.
Session: Primary School Breakfast Clubs 2024-12-09
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I am sure that the House agrees that affordable housing is important. However, my experience in Leicester South is that all too often it is provided in new developments, as homes for shared ownership or as similar housing products, which are out of reach for the poorest in my community. What my community really needs is more social rented houses. What is the Secretary of State doing to promote the construction of social rented homes, as opposed to other affordable housing products?
Context
Affordable housing in Leicester South is often provided through shared ownership and similar schemes, which are not accessible to the poorest residents.
Angela Rayner
I agree with the hon. Member that we need more social homes. That is why we have been putting more into the affordable homes programme. We have made it absolutely clear that under section 106 notices, which he mentioned, homes need to be affordable; that is why we have put affordability tests in the NPPF. We want to ensure that people have those homes, and we want to build the next generation of council and social housing—and we will.
Session: Social Housing Supply 2024-12-02
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Does the Minister agree that local charities like Jasmine House, which operates in my constituency, play a vital role in supporting women who have been victims of a sexual crime? But in addition to the worry of constantly trying to find funding, they are concerned about the impact that the Government's proposed increase in employer's national insurance will have on their ability to continue providing that help. Does the Minister agree that they should be exempt from the changes to national insurance contributions?
Context
The MP raises concerns about local charities struggling with funding and potential impact of the Government's proposed increase in employer's national insurance.
Jess Phillips
I pay tribute to Jasmine House. As someone who applied for funding for a similar centre, I understand exactly the funding pressures that its staff will face. What the sector really needs is stability, the assurance of more than single-year funding, which the Government are looking at, and making sure that we mitigate to ensure that there is enough.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2024-11-25
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A constituent came to me distressed due to being denied mental health support while awaiting trial for a 2021 rape. Her court case is scheduled for 2026, which the MP deems unacceptable. The questioner asks about the Minister's stance on this issue and the policy regarding access to mental health support.
Context
A constituent of the MP reported being denied access to mental health support while awaiting her case to be heard after a rape in 2021, with a hearing date set for 2026.
Jess Phillips
It is a myth that people cannot access mental health support when awaiting trial. The answerer states that they ran a rape crisis service and served people who were awaiting trial, suggesting that such support should be provided to all victims.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls 2024-11-13
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The 2,000 lb bombs dropped on innocent civilians led to unimaginable scenes of babies being killed and children burned alive. These bombs are used by F-35s with parts from the UK. When will we stop supplying these parts and adhere to international conventions?
Context
Recent bombings in Gaza and Lebanon involving F-35 fighter jets that use parts supplied by the UK.
John Healey
We have made decisions on suspending arms sales to Israel, and we are calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. We are working towards a political solution that guarantees peace.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-10-14
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I am sure the House will agree that the situation in Gaza, particularly for children, is absolutely horrific. Does the Secretary of State agree that, along with international partners, we must secure a mechanism that allows these children to be treated here in the UK, especially as many hospital facilities in Gaza have been erased?
Context
Reports estimate that up to 50,000 children require health-related treatment due to the conflict and destruction of medical facilities.
Anneliese Dodds
The issue of medical treatment in Gaza is taken very seriously. We are supporting UK-Med with £5.5 million towards its operations, including trauma and public health support.
Session: Topical Questions 2024-07-30
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Glaucoma Awareness
09 July 2025
Responding: Stephen Kinnock
Main Concerns
['As an optometrist, Shockat Adam highlights the silent and often undiagnosed nature of glaucoma, which affects over 700,000 people in the UK with more than half undiagnosed. He cites examples of patients who have lost significant vision without realising it until too late.']
Specific Asks
['Adam calls for increased awareness and regular eye tests to prevent glaucoma and for a shift towards community-based care, including optometrist-led services that could free up hospital appointments and save the NHS £12 million annually.']
Military Co-operation with Israel
18 March 2025
Responding: Luke Pollard
Main Concerns
["The debate centres on the recent Israeli airstrikes that killed over 400 people, potentially facilitated by British military co-operation and intelligence sharing. It highlights the violation of international law and raises questions about UK's role in enabling war crimes. The debate also addresses the denial of essential resources to Gaza and its impact on civilians."]
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks for immediate action from the Government, including summoning the Israeli ambassador and considering economic sanctions to uphold moral responsibility and international law.']
Ministry of Defence: Palantir Contracts
10 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Standards in Public Life
09 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Occupied Palestinian Territories Genocide Risk Assessment 2026-02-05
05 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Calls for the UK Government to recognise a serious risk of genocide in Gaza based on overwhelming evidence. Criticises the government's failure to meet its legal obligation under the genocide conventi...
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...
Warm Homes Plan 2026-01-21
21 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Glaucoma Care (England) 2026-01-20
20 January 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Moves for leave to bring in a Bill to improve glaucoma detection, treatment and monitoring by optometrists. Emphasises the silent nature of glaucoma which causes irreversible sight loss and highlights...
Arctic Security 2026-01-19
19 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Business Rates Retail, Hospitality and Leisure 2026-01-19
19 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm that the planned changes to business rates for the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors will not result in crippling rises? Given the significant negative impact these cha...
Road Safety Strategy 2026-01-08
08 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Minister highlighted the new national road safety strategy aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on British roads by 65% by 2035. She emphasised the current plateau in road safety improvem...
Middle East and North Africa 2026-01-05
05 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary provided an update on the situation in Gaza, Iran, Yemen, Syria, and the case of Alaa Abd el-Fattah. He highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasising that ...
Attendance
59.1%
13 of 22 votes
Aye Votes
9
40.9% of votes
No Votes
4
18.2% of votes
Abstentions
9
40.9% 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
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
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 NO
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 AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 9
Ayes: 181
Noes: 335
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 86 stand part
Ayes: 344
Noes: 173
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 25
Ayes: 187
Noes: 351
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 24
Ayes: 184
Noes: 331
Failed
12 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 7
Ayes: 188
Noes: 341
Failed
12 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 185
Noes: 344
Failed
2
PMQs Asked
35
Ministerial Questions Asked
80
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
+341% above average
This MP:
35
Average:
7.9
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+30% above average
This MP:
2
Average:
1.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3283% above average
This MP:
80
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 (%)
-22% below average
This MP:
59.1
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 Shockat Adam's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.