Abena Oppong-Asare
MP for Erith and Thamesmead
Lab
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
We are facing a severe housing situation with soaring mortgages, increasing rents, and an anticipated reduction in new constructions. Given the Prime Minister's acknowledgment of his decision to lower housing goals, will he explain why the preferences of 1,000 party members outweigh those of families hoping to become homeowners?
Context
The housing market is experiencing high mortgage rates, rising rents, and a projected decline in house building. The Prime Minister previously admitted to dropping housing targets.
Rishi Sunak
On the Government side of the House we believe in empowering local communities to make decisions that are right for them, protecting their green spaces. In areas where house building is insufficient to meet demand, such as Labour-controlled London, this issue persists.
Assessment
The response did not provide a specific explanation or commitment regarding the prioritization of party member opinions over public needs.
Changed Subject
General Principles
Session: PMQs
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Charlie Bartolo and Kearne Solanke were tragically killed this weekend. We need to address and tackle serious youth violence and the knife crime epidemic. What is being done by the Prime Minister?
Context
Two teenagers were tragically killed in the constituency, prompting a call for addressing serious youth violence.
Rishi Sunak
We are increasing police officers, lifting restrictions on stop and search, introducing new court orders targeting known offenders, and supporting local efforts to make streets safer.
Session: PMQs
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With Russia's covert influence being dangerous, has the Prime Minister ever overruled Security Service advice when appointing a peer?
Context
Russia's covert influence in Britain is serious. Putin seeks to influence culture, media, and politics.
Boris Johnson
No, and actually the Kremlin has singled out the UK for being in the lead on global sanctions—[Interruption.] Yes it has, and in leading the world in defiance of the odious war that Putin is leading in Ukraine.
Assessment
Answering a different question about Russia's opinion of UK sanctions
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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If the PM receives a fixed penalty notice for attending or hosting a party during lockdown, will he inform the House and resign?
Context
The Prime Minister is under scrutiny for potential lockdown rule violations, as constituents question his accountability.
Boris Johnson
I will comply with the law once the process is concluded.
Assessment
No commitment to informing the House or resignation was given.
Session: PMQs
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My constituency is served by two local councils. Recently, Bexley has taken emergency action to shed hundreds of jobs, while Greenwich needs to make £20 million of cuts in its upcoming budget. Last year, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government promised councils “whatever it takes” to get through the pandemic, so why is the Prime Minister dropping a council tax bombshell and asking my constituents to pay for his promises?
Context
Bexley Council has taken emergency action to shed hundreds of jobs, while Greenwich needs to make £20 million cuts in its budget. The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government promised councils “whatever it takes” during the pandemic.
Boris Johnson
The last time I looked, Bexley was a Conservative council and Greenwich was Labour, which may explain part of the problem. The reality is that we are supporting every council, with £4.6 billion of support for local government so far during the pandemic.
Assessment
The specific ask about constituents paying increased costs due to promises not being kept was avoided.
Session: PMQs
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Women who are experiencing rough sleeping are often hidden from official figures. Will the Minister ensure that there is a specific focus on that during the forthcoming homelessness summit, and will she ensure that new guidance is backed by the resources that councils need in order to provide safe, trauma-informed support?
Context
The MP is concerned about the underreporting of women experiencing rough sleeping. She wants to ensure that the forthcoming homelessness summit addresses this issue specifically and that new guidance is backed by adequate resources for councils to provide safe, trauma-informed support.
Florence Eshalomi
I thank my hon. Friend for making that important point. We have made it clear that authorities in all areas should look at providing accessible support for women, including specialist support, where needed. Our ending rough sleeping programme will require a whole-society approach. This autumn, the Prime Minister will bring together a diverse range of leaders from businesses, finance, charities, faith, health communities and many more areas to consider a range of options to meet the needs of different people and, most importantly, the needs of women.
Session: Rough Sleeping Erith and Thamesmead 2026-09-07
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What progress has been made on tackling rough sleeping and homelessness in Erith and Thamesmead constituency? The number of families in B&Bs for more than six weeks in Greenwich has decreased by 96% year-on-year, but I want to know what specific measures have been implemented in Erith and Thamesmead to address this issue.
Context
The MP is concerned about the progress made in addressing rough sleeping and homelessness in her constituency of Erith and Thamesmead. She seeks an update on the specific actions taken and the impact of these actions.
Florence Eshalomi
Encouraging progress has been made against national homelessness and rough sleeping targets in the Erith and Thamesmead constituency. In particular, the number of families in B&Bs for more than six weeks in Greenwich has decreased by 96% year-on-year, from 100 households to four—congratulations. More than £168 million in new funding was announced for London last month in the rough sleeping programme. That funding will be used across key areas to tackle rough sleeping in the winter and beyond, including the Erith and Thamesmead constituency.
Session: Rough Sleeping Erith and Thamesmead 2026-09-07
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Women with the painful and incurable condition of endometriosis have suffered stigma and ill health for far too long, and despite the condition impacting one in 10 women, a diagnosis takes over eight years on average. Will the Minister make sure that the new women's health strategy includes stronger training, better awareness, and faster support for women?
Context
The question addresses the need for faster diagnosis, better awareness, and training on endometriosis.
Stephen Kinnock
This is a vital issue. Endometriosis is a serious challenge for so many women across our country, and I confirm that it is an integral part of the strategy. I am sure she will be pleased to see the outcome of that strategy as it moves forward.
Session: Care in the Community
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NHS figures from December show that the number of women waiting for gynaecological treatment reached another record high of nearly 600,000. That number has tripled since 2012. What can the Minister say to the women waiting urgently for treatment?
Context
The MP noted NHS figures showing a record high of nearly 600,000 women waiting for gynaecological treatment, with numbers tripling since 2012.
Andrew Stephenson
We are sticking to our plan to back the NHS to cut waiting lists, prioritising fairer, simpler, and faster services. When there is no strike action, that plan is working. We have seen significant reductions in waiting lists outside of the pandemic period.
Session: Gynaecology Treatment
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In 2020, women's life expectancy in the poorest parts of the UK was almost 19 years shorter than those in the most affluent. Thirteen years ago, Labour introduced a socioeconomic duty in the Equality Act 2010 to make the NHS and other public bodies tackle this gap. Why have Ministers failed to implement it?
Context
In 2020, women's life expectancy was almost 19 years shorter in the poorest parts of the UK compared to affluent areas. Labour introduced a socioeconomic duty in the Equality Act 2010.
Kemi Badenoch
The hon. Lady is right that the socioeconomic duty she references is not commenced in England. It is in Scotland, however, and figures are worse there, showing the duty is not the solution.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the Secretary of State and her Ministers to their posts. The PM promised to restore NHS dentistry last year, yet allowed ICBs to raid budgets last month. We have a plan for 700,000 extra appointments, school toothbrushing, targeted recruitment, funded by abolishing non-dom tax status. Labour has a plan, but the Government's is four months overdue. Where is it?
Context
The Prime Minister pledged to restore NHS dentistry but is allowing ICBs to raid budgets. Labour's plan includes extra appointments, school toothbrushing, and targeted recruitment in left-behind areas.
Victoria Atkins
I look forward to discussing these matters with her over the Dispatch Box.
Session: Dental Services
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How will patients know that a winter crisis has been avoided if problems persist into the spring?
Context
The current government's approach to winter crises is seen as inadequate, with only temporary solutions.
Helen Whately
I am really sorry, but the hon. Member's memory appears to be very short. Problems for the NHS during winter existed under previous Labour governments as well; Wales is also struggling with A&E performance issues.
Session: Winter Pressure on NHS Services
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CQC reports that two-thirds of England's maternity units are rated inadequately or needing improvement due to safety concerns, up from 55% last year. We have repeatedly called for more midwives and better retention policies. As a result of ministerial failure, mothers do not receive the safe care they deserve. What is the Minister's plan to improve this?
Context
The CQC reports significant issues with maternity services in England, including inadequate ratings for safety and staffing shortages. The government has been urged to take action.
Maria Caulfield
Midwife numbers have increased by 14% since 2010, with an additional 3,650 training places. A support programme is assisting the 32 poorly inspected trusts, but hon. Member should engage with ministerial colleagues in Wales for similar issues there.
Session: Maternity Services
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Thanks to internal chaos, Conservatives failed in their election pledge to fix social care. With over 150,000 vacancies and 390,000 staff leaving annually, 60% of fit patients are kept in hospital daily. Will the Minister support Labour's plan for fair pay agreements to ensure sufficient staffing?
Context
The question addresses the government's failure to fix social care despite their promise, highlighting issues such as high vacancy rates, staff turnover, and delayed discharges.
Helen Whately
Labour does not have a social care reform plan. We are introducing a new career structure for social care workers, new qualifications, and investing in training.
Session: Hospital Patients Discharge into Social Care
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Why has it taken so long for the Government to bring forward a strategy, and why do they continue to drag their feet over reform to the Mental Health Act? Can the Minister give the House a firm timetable today?
Context
The MP challenges the Government on suicide prevention strategy timing and reforms.
Maria Caulfield
The hon. Lady is not quite right in her statistics. Just before covid we had seen a 20% reduction compared with two decades ago in suicide levels in England. She might be interested to know that in Labour-run Wales suicide rates are higher than in England, and its suicide prevention strategy expired last year.
Session: Suicide Prevention
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This Government effectively banned new onshore wind, crucial for net zero, energy security, and reducing bills. With Tory rebels clashing, can we get a clear answer: delay or lead with Labour on onshore wind?
Context
Government's ban on new onshore wind projects.
Gareth Davies
Onshore wind plays an important role and we are deploying 14 GW of energy from it. It is one of our cheapest sources, but the hon. Lady does not have long to wait for answers in the Energy Bill being considered later.
Session: Climate Change Economic Impact
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The 2019 Conservative manifesto, some three Prime Ministers and four Chancellors ago, promised a fundamental reform of business rates. This is another broken Tory promise. Will the Minister admit that only a Labour Government will end the chaos, scrap business rates and replace them with a fairer system, so that our amazing hospitality sector can thrive and grow faster?
Context
The MP references the Conservative Party's promise to reform business rates but notes it has not been fulfilled.
Victoria Atkins
I have a great deal of respect for the hon. Lady, but I must point out to her gently that we have, in fact, conducted that review. In the autumn statement, we were able to announce a £13.6 billion package of help over the next five years, including a multiplier freeze for all ratepayers, large and small; a transitional relief cap funded by the Exchequer; retail, hospitality and leisure relief; and a small business support scheme, which will help to cap bill increases at £600 per year for any business losing eligibility for some or all small business rate relief or rural rate relief at the 2023 revaluation. We have done that review and are supporting businesses that need help.
Session: Hospitality Businesses
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As my hon. Friend the Member for Portsmouth South (Stephen Morgan) just said, the Institute of Directors has warned that 'the UK will find itself left behind in the accelerating race to lead the green economy.' The Confederation of British Industry says we are investing five times less in green industries than Germany—five times less. Meanwhile, the United Nations issues warnings of a climate disaster. Where is the urgency and action from the Conservatives to decarbonise our economy and win the global race for green jobs?
Context
The Institute of Directors warned the UK is falling behind in green economic leadership. The Confederation of British Industry stated that UK investment in green industries is five times less than Germany's.
James Cartlidge
What the IOD actually said about the Budget was that it was 'hugely encouraging', and I strongly agree. We have an extraordinary track record—the fastest-falling emissions in the whole of the G7 and extraordinary success in offshore wind—but we want to go further. That is why we have announced £20 billion for carbon capture and storage, and we will soon announce many more positive measures.
Session: Net Zero
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When I met the Minister, he gave me assurances that Southeastern timetables would improve in Erith and Thamesmead. He mentioned this morning that all south-east London MPs had received an update. I am one of the MPs who has not. There is an impact on my constituency, so I would like to know why I have not received that update. My hon. Friend the Member for Eltham (Clive Efford) has kindly shown me the letter, which partially addresses some of the issues with off-peak services on the Bexley line, but does not address over-crowding across the board, most of which occurs during peak times. Will the Minister look into the matter urgently?
Context
Southeastern train services in Erith and Thamesmead face issues including off-peak service disruptions and peak-time overcrowding.
Huw Merriman
The email with the letter will have been sent to four hon. Members; the hon. Lady is one of them. If it has not yet got through, I suspect that that is because of a systems issue rather than anything else, but as soon as I leave the Chamber I will make sure that she gets it. I make the point again that I am a user of Southeastern and of London Bridge, and I am aware of the issues. We will continue to reflect, adapt and change where the case is made—I assure the hon. Lady of that.
Session: Topical Questions
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Many will have heard the appalling stories of the forced installation of prepayment meters, which is precisely why Labour had called for a ban. But there is another scandal: the fact that those using prepayment meters pay more for their energy than those paying by direct debit. Why should those with the least pay the most? Labour will end this—will the Conservatives?
Context
Concerns raised about the forced installation of prepayment meters and higher costs for those using them compared to direct debit payments.
James Cartlidge
I am grateful to the hon. Lady, and I know this will be an important matter for the new Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. As for the Treasury position and our assistance in this matter, we should remember we have given the greatest support with energy bills to those with the greatest need. In the current financial year, we have given a cost of living payment of £650 for those on benefits, and in the next financial year there will be £900 of support. It is significant and it is comprehensive.
Session: Economy Impact of Changes in Energy Support Schemes
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If Labour's proposed windfall tax had been implemented, it would raise an additional £16.8 billion. Why have the Government chosen not to put this potential revenue towards supporting families and businesses in the coming tough winter?
Context
The government's failure to implement a proper windfall tax could have raised an additional £16.8 billion, potentially supporting families and businesses during the winter.
James Cartlidge
We do not accept that figure entirely. The energy profits levy includes an allowance for investment and is applied fairly, but long-term answers lie in energy security and transition to net zero.
Session: Energy Producer Profit Trends
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The Government allow offshore wind but are still banning onshore wind. Ending the ban would give us a vital tool to reach net zero, make Britain a clean energy superpower, and open up new investment and growth opportunities. Keeping the onshore wind ban will make energy bills £16 billion higher between now and 2030. Why on earth are Ministers undermining green growth and cheaper energy by maintaining the self-defeating ban on onshore wind?
Context
Concerns about the UK's onshore wind ban and its effect on achieving net zero emissions.
James Cartlidge
The Government are committed to delivering cheaper, cleaner and more secure power. That is why we included onshore wind in the latest auction round for contracts for difference, which have delivered a 50% technology cost reduction since 2015. The Government recognise the range of community views on onshore wind, and it is important that we strike the right balance between community interests and securing a clean, green energy system for the future. That is why we have committed to consulting on developing local partnerships for supportive communities in England who wish to host new onshore wind infrastructure.
Session: Floating Offshore Wind
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Many of my constituents who are in the UK legally and have lived in this country for many years are denied access to student finance because of unnecessary and unfair residency rules. Many applicants find it difficult to provide the evidence required, and Home Office delays mean that some people cannot even apply in the first place. Will the Minister please look into that issue and see whether any changes can be made that could help with student finance, particularly when it comes to eligibility rules?
Context
Many legal UK residents with years of residence find it difficult to access student finance due to complex residency requirements. Applicants face difficulties in providing necessary evidence, exacerbated by Home Office delays.
Michelle Donelan
I am more than happy to meet the hon. Member, but at the heart of our system are fairness and ensuring that our policy and rules are straightforward. I am more than happy to explain that to her.
Session: Topical Questions
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If the Chancellor really wanted to help British businesses, he would back Labour's plan to scrap business rates and replace them with a fairer system. He could reverse his tax on jobs and scrap the national insurance hike, and he could use public procurement and other tools to buy, make and sell more in Britain. He has imitated Labour's policies before: why not follow Labour's lead again and help struggling businesses?
Context
The MP suggested alternative fiscal measures such as scrapping business rates and national insurance hikes.
Helen Whately
Business rates and national insurance are an important contribution to paying for public services, which I am sure the hon. Lady's constituents, like mine, feel very strongly about. I remind her of the scale of support that we are providing to businesses, including a business rates cut worth £1.7 billion this year.
Session: SMEs
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Will the Chancellor confirm that 'Get on your bike' is official Conservative economic policy once again?
Context
Concern over the impact of the cost of living crisis on people's ability to save.
Rishi Sunak
In aggregate, across the economy, savings increased over the past two years by more than £250 billion. Consumer credit has also fallen by about £30 billion over the past two years.
Session: Reducing Economic Inequality
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There are three prisons in my constituency: Belmarsh, Thameside, and Isis. Prison officers and other justice staff go into work to protect us but the Government are failing to protect them at work. One cause of increasing violence in prison is understaffing. Can the Minister tell us what the Government are doing to tackle the recruitment and retention crisis?
Context
The question addresses the recruitment and retention crisis in prisons, highlighting increasing violence due to understaffing.
Victoria Atkins
The hon. Lady is absolutely right to say that our officers and staff are a critical part of protecting the public through our prisons. Without those staff and officers, our prisons simply do not function. The Deputy Prime Minister and I are looking intensively at not only the pay but the other conditions under which officers and staff are working. We take this very seriously. I also want to look at the conditions for staff and officers working in prisons, because they are the hidden emergency service that keeps us safe day in, day out.
Session: Topical Questions
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Thamesmead needs levelling up. It has some of the worst public transport links in the capital. There are ambitious plans to extend the docklands light railway to Thamesmead, which are supported by local councils. Will the Minister look favourably at these proposals when submitted and provide necessary funding?
Context
The question highlights the need for improved transport links, specifically mentioning plans to extend DLR to Thamesmead, supported by Greenwich and Newham councils.
Wendy Morton
With regard to extending the DLR, the scale of the opportunity from the potential options at Thamesmead and Beckton Riverside is being explored and the Government and Homes England are working together with the Greater London Authority and Transport for London to do this.
Session: Docklands Light Railway
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What recent discussions has he had with Transport for London on proposals to extend the docklands light railway to Thamesmead?
Context
The question addresses the need for improved public transport links, specifically mentioning the ambitions to extend the DLR to Thamesmead, supported by local councils.
Wendy Morton
The Government and Homes England are exploring potential opportunities and options at Thamesmead and Beckton Riverside with the Greater London Authority and Transport for London.
Session: Docklands Light Railway
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Questions what would happen to an employee in the private sector losing over £4 billion and ignoring warnings; asks if such a person would be promoted or sacked?
Context
Comparison of handling of fraud by Government versus private sector; reference to loss of £4 billion due to fraud.
Simon Clarke
Running Government of the UK with response at speed to public health emergency; provision of £400 billion support prevented worst-case scenario including mass unemployment and company closures. Balance struck between providing support and implementing protections for taxpayer interest; going after anyone who defrauded Exchequer.
Session: Public Spending Value for Money
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Sistah Space supports black women and girls who have experienced domestic violence. It is campaigning for Valerie's law, which would introduce mandatory training for police and other agencies, including on dealing with domestic violence in black communities. Will the Minister meet me and Sistah Space to discuss this important issue before the upcoming petitions debate?
Context
Sistah Space campaigns for Valerie's law on mandatory training for police and agencies to deal with domestic violence in black communities.
Rachel Maclean
The hon. Lady is absolutely right to highlight the importance of the police force's response to the domestic abuse of all victims. I will be very happy to meet her.
Session: Topical Questions
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How on earth does he think that this sends the right message as the COP26 summit begins?
Context
The question criticises the Chancellor for not addressing climate change sufficiently in his Budget statement.
Lucy Frazer
I am sure the hon. Lady will have seen the net zero strategy, which was published the week before the Budget. I am sure she will also know about the significant progress that the Chancellor has made on bringing other countries together to increase the international effort on climate finance.
Session: Net Zero Emissions
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Where is the final report from the net zero review promised by the Chancellor 11 weeks ago?
Context
Households, businesses and consumers need clarity on how costs of transitioning to net zero will be shared.
Kemi Badenoch
As I said, the report will be published in advance of COP26, but we have published other things that the hon. Member does not seem to have heard of or read. We have set out ambitious plans about the net zero target and published the energy White Paper, the industrial decarbonisation strategy, the transport decarbonisation plan, which has not happened anywhere else in the world—we are the first country to do a transport decarbonisation plan—and a hydrogen strategy.
Session: Net Zero Emissions and Green Investment
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Independent experts have told the Government 12 times that the failure to provide adequate financial support to people self-isolating has contributed to the spread of covid, endangering lives and livelihoods. Will the Chancellor explain why the Treasury instructed Government officials actively to supress information about the furlough scheme?
Context
Independent experts have warned the Government multiple times about inadequate support for those who need to isolate.
Rishi Sunak
The hon. Lady is wrong, because the Government did no such thing. Indeed, guidance on usage of the furlough scheme was there in black and white—I am looking at it—and plain for everyone to see from the start. At the beginning of this crisis we improved the way that statutory sick pay works to deal with self-isolation.
Session: Furloughed Employees
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Will the Secretary of State ensure local issues like delays do not worsen cancer backlog and put more lives at risk?
Context
Concerns over delays in accessing urgent blood tests critical to diagnose cancer.
Matthew Hancock
Yes, if she writes to me with full details, we will address the issue immediately.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the government ring-fence the money from the EU research fund for coal and steel to support decarbonising and modernising the industry, given its importance in protecting jobs?
Context
Steel jobs are crucial, with high electricity prices affecting competitiveness. The EU research fund for coal and steel will be returned to the UK.
Kemi Badenoch
The government is taking steps to decarbonise the UK steel industry, including a £250 million clean steel fund. We are working with businesses to understand issues and engage sectors affected by covid and our relationship with the EU.
Session: UK Steel Government Infrastructure Projects
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To deliver transport connectivity in every part of the United Kingdom, we need long-term investment in infrastructure but, staggeringly, the OBR analysis reveals that the Chancellor has cut capital investment plans by half a billion pounds since last March. The Budget also made no mention of Northern Powerhouse Rail and slashed the Transport for the North budget by 40%. Can the Minister explain why the reality of the Budget on infrastructure investment is so far from this Government's rhetoric?
Context
Ms. Oppong-Asare points out that the Chancellor has cut capital investment plans by half a billion pounds since last March, questioning how this aligns with the Government's rhetoric on infrastructure.
Jesse Norman
I do not recognise the figures the hon. Lady has used at all. The facts are that this Government published the “National Infrastructure Strategy” in November, which set out plans for £300 billion-worth of public investment over the next few years, as well as supporting £300 billion of private investment. Since then, the Chancellor has announced the new UK infrastructure bank, which will further support the development of infrastructure and levelling up, and the development of our green infrastructure across the UK.
Session: Transport Connectivity
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Will the Minister explain why he thinks it is right that employees can be furloughed until 30 April but self-employed people have no clarity about the future of support beyond the end of this week? The MP notes that the Chancellor has not provided many details on the scheme's future.
Context
The third grant for the self-employment income support scheme closes this Friday. Employees can be furloughed until 30 April, but no clarity is provided on future support beyond this week.
Jesse Norman
It is well-understood that the Chancellor will be setting out further plans in the March Budget. It is normal for this time of year for different decisions to be consolidated into that important fiscal event.
Session: Self-employment Income Support Scheme.
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What plans do the Government have to improve the situation for those working in harder hit sectors under additional restrictions?
Context
The self-employed in areas with additional restrictions face significant challenges.
Jesse Norman (West Dorset) (Conservative)
The third phase of the self-employed scheme is expected to cost more than £7 billion as part of a wider package of support. Business grants have been backdated to address some concerns.
Session: Self-Employed People Covid-19 Support
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What do the Government have to say to those businesses that realistically cannot operate but are not legally required to close?
Context
Businesses in tiered regions face financial strain due to operational limitations without closure mandates. There is a demand for government support.
Jesse Norman
We are acutely aware of the financial costs on those businesses, as we are of those on businesses that have been forced to close, and that is why we have put in place an evolving and comprehensive programme of support for business.
Session: Fiscal Support Covid-19
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It has been six months of uncertainty for our country's children and their parents, with schooling cancelled, exam results issues, and now students trapped in university accommodation. Despite recognition of the serious impact on young people's mental health, why does it seem like there is no Government plan to address this? Children are being failed.
Context
The MP highlighted six months of uncertainty for children and their parents, including cancelled schooling, exam results issues, and students being trapped in university accommodation. Despite the Education Secretary acknowledging the impact on young people's mental health, the questioner argues that there is no plan to address this.
Nadine Dorries
We have invested £2.3 billion in mental health support for children and young people, enabling 345,000 to access mental health services via NHS-funded health services and school-based teams. Spending on mental health services for this age group is growing faster than the overall mental health budget.
Session: Mental Health Support in Schools
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Schoolchildren have had their education interrupted. They have been separated from their friends and face continual threats to their daily lives. Given that the Government knew schools would return, why did they not put in place adequate measures to provide mental health support for students and teachers?
Context
The MP noted that schoolchildren have been interrupted from their education due to ongoing disruptions, including separation from friends and threats to daily lives. The Government knew schools were set to reopen but did not provide adequate measures for mental health provision.
Nadine Dorries
The Government has completed the wellbeing for education return “train the trainer” scheme, with trainers trained by the Anna Freud Centre ready to go into schools. £8 million was invested in this training programme over the summer, preparing mental health and wellbeing support for children returning to school.
Session: Mental Health Support in Schools
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Can the Secretary of State explain exactly how a dual tariff would prevent British consumers from having to accept imported food produced by causing animals unnecessary suffering, and how he will support British farmers striving to produce a high standard of food?
Context
Concerns about the impact of dual tariff proposals on food standards and animal welfare.
George Eustice (The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
There are many ways through a trade deal that a country can agree with another country how to protect food standards—both food safety and animal welfare. I cannot give a running commentary on our discussions on a future trade agreement or comment on such media speculation.
Session: Dual Tariff Proposals British Food Standards
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What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that all women referred for suspected ovarian cancer are diagnosed or ruled out within 28 days, in line with faster diagnosis standards?
Context
The MP asks about improving early diagnosis of ovarian cancer.
The Minister of State, Department of Health and Social Care Jo Churchill
Under the long-term plan, we are rolling out rapid diagnostic centres to give GPs another route to patients. With the Mike Richards screening review, we are ensuring that patients access clinicians and treatment faster, crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment.
Session: Ovarian Cancer
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My residents in Erith and Thamesmead deserve decent transport. I share the concerns raised by neighbouring colleagues, my hon. Friends the Members for Eltham (Clive Efford) and for Greenwich and Woolwich (Matthew Pennycook), about the adequacy of Southeastern services, and I also welcome the earlier answer from the Minister of State, Department for Transport, the hon. Member for Daventry (Chris Heaton-Harris). However, what my constituents want to know is when TfL will take over the franchise to start delivering decent services. When is that date, Mr Minister?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the adequacy of Southeastern services and asks when TfL will take over the franchise.
Chris Heaton-Harris
I hate to disappoint the hon. Lady in her first Transport questions, but a whole bunch of conversations need to take place first, including the working up of a detailed business plan. We are working with TfL on these matters—there is no blockage in the system—but these things do take time. I am afraid that I have to disappoint the hon. Lady and not give her a date at this point.
Session: Topical Questions
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Over 1,000 voters lost the chance to vote due to identification requirements. Does the Minister agree with Professor Toby James that there is no evidence justifying these requirements?
Context
Voter ID requirements have led to some voters losing their ability to participate in local elections.
Chloe Smith (Minister without Portfolio)
The hon. Lady was elected earlier, welcome to her seat. On this question, the evidence supports us, the experience from pilots and Northern Ireland is on our side, and the British people are behind it as it was a core part of our manifesto.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Defibrillators: Public Access — [Sir Charles Walker in the Chair]
04 July 2023
Responding: Will Quince
Main Concerns
['The hon. Member is concerned about the uneven distribution of defibrillators across different socioeconomic groups, with poorer communities having less access than affluent ones. She highlights that only 8% of people suffering a heart attack outside of hospital will survive, but this increases to 32% if they have access to an AED. The hon. Member also points out the importance of public awareness and training in using defibrillators effectively.']
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member asks the Minister to address the issue of unequal distribution of defibrillators and to provide a clear method for distributing the £1 million announced recently for community defibrillators. She also requests information on public awareness campaigns, accessibility issues, and workplace training programs.']
Support for Black Victims of Domestic Abuse — [Sir Christopher Chope in the Chair]
28 March 2022
Responding: Rachel Maclean
Main Concerns
['The petition calls for specialist training to be mandatory for police and other government agencies supporting black women and girls affected by domestic abuse. The speaker highlights that black women are less likely to receive referrals from the police for specialist support and are more likely to report severe forms of physical and sexual abuse than white survivors. She mentions incidents like a 15-year-old girl being strip-searched without finding any drugs, highlighting institutional racism in the police force and the need for basic trust that the police will treat black women with respect.']
Specific Asks
['The petition demands the Government to provide specialist training on domestic abuse needs specific to victims of different ethnicities. The lead MP asks for mandatory training for all agencies helping victims, substantial ringfenced funding for specialist services run by and for black women and girls, further research into violence dynamics experienced by black women and robust data collection.']
Building Homes and Renewing Communities
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Social Media Ban for Under-16s
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Menstrual and Gynaecological Health
18 March 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Moves to bring in a Bill to address the teaching of menstrual and gynaecological health, highlighting misinformation, stigma, and racial discrimination. Emphasises the need for proper training, guidan...
International Women’s Day
12 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
It is an honour to open this International Women’s Day debate, which is being held in Government time for the first time since 2020. International Women’s Day was forged in the labour strikes of the e...
Women’s Health Strategy: Endometriosis and Fibroids
05 March 2026
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
Abena Oppong-Asare raised concerns about endometriosis and related gynaecological conditions, which affect millions of women but are often undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or dismissed within the health sys...
New Towns 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The New Towns Act of 1946 aimed to address severe housing shortages, overcrowding, and poor living conditions post-war by planning whole communities with homes alongside jobs, schools, services, and g...
Budget Resolutions 2025-11-26
26 November 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced a new tax raid of £26 billion, increasing borrowing in every year. Mrs Badenoch argues that this Budget increases benefits for families but hikes taxes on...
The Lords Spiritual (Women) Act 2015 Extension Bill - Clause 1 - Extension of the Lords Spiritual (Women) Act 2015 by five years
18 December 2024
Bill Debate
Led by this MP
The Minister proposes to extend the provisions of the Lords Spiritual (Women) Act 2015 for an additional five years until May 2030, in accordance with the request from the Church of England. This exte...
Storm Darragh
10 December 2024
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
The Lords Spiritual (Women) Bill
14 November 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves that the Bill be read a Second time. The Bill seeks to extend by five years the arrangements for appointing female bishops as Lords Spiritual under the 2015 Act. It aims to ensure representation...
Attendance
87.2%
82 of 94 votes
Aye Votes
27
28.7% of votes
No Votes
55
58.5% of votes
Abstentions
12
12.8% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
5
PMQs Asked
40
Ministerial Questions Asked
74
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
94
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+37% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+198% above average
This MP:
40
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1423% above average
This MP:
74
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+27% above average
This MP:
87.2
Average:
68.8
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 Abena Oppong-Asare's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.