Adam Thompson
MP for Erewash
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Since this Government massively boosted the national minimum wage for young people, my Erewash constituents earn far more than the £3.40 an hour that I was paid in my first job just 17 years ago. What is the Deputy Prime Minister’s response to the people, including Conservative and Reform Members, who claim that £10 an hour is too high a wage for young workers? Does he happen to know whether any of the Reform leader’s dozen extra jobs pays him less than £10 an hour?
Context
The hon. Member is concerned about the impact of raising the national minimum wage for young people.
David Lammy
I was looking at the entry of the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage) in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests. He is making quite a lot out of gold bullion. One has to ask: why does he want to cut the minimum wage for people who are not making even 1% of what he makes? The Labour party is on the side of young people, boosting their wages and delivering the youth guarantee to help everyone realise their potential. I hope that young people recognise what those two other parties want from their records.
Session: PMQs
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As a trained physics teacher and a former engineering lecturer, may I ask what this Government are doing to help people improve their maths skills after they have left school? A 61-year-old man believed he had counted up £7 billion of Government spending, when there was really only £27 million. What can we do for people like the leader of Reform UK, the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage), who evidently cannot add up?
Context
The MP, a trained physics teacher and former engineering lecturer, highlights the importance of maths skills improvement for adults. He cites an example of a 61-year-old man who miscalculated government spending.
Angela Rayner
My hon. Friend highlights an important fact: Reform’s sums simply do not add up. He will be pleased to know that we are investing £136 million in skills bootcamps, and I will be sure to send the details to the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage).
Assessment
Did not address the specific ask about measures to improve maths skills for adults.
Sent The Details To The Hon. Member For Clacton
Session: PMQs
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The Chancellor will no doubt be aware that this month marks the fourth anniversary of the disastrous Liz Truss mini-Budget, which risked my constituents' pensions and locked thousands out of home ownership. Last week we saw Liz Truss's Financial Secretary, the hon. Member for Arundel and South Downs (Andrew Griffith), made shadow Chancellor. Does my right hon. Friend have any advice for the shadow Chancellor on how he might learn from his mistakes?
Context
The Liz Truss mini-Budget anniversary is approaching, and concerns have been raised about its impact on home ownership and pension funds.
John Healey
My hon. Friend is right that the Truss mini-Budget means that families with a new mortgage are now paying £600 a year more and the Government are paying more for our borrowing—money that we could be spending on schools and hospitals. The shadow Chancellor is the same man who at the weekend said that there were “lots of good things” in the Truss mini-Budget. With Labour, Britain is starting to turn the corner; it is clear that with a new shadow Chancellor, the Tories are turning back to Liz Truss.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-08
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Empty shops that are rundown because of absentee landlords are a blight on our town centres, but Labour-run Erewash borough council is fixing the problem through clean-up orders, such as the one served to the Burton building in Long Eaton—as soon as it was renovated, new businesses moved right in—but clean-up orders can be very time-consuming, so what more can the Government do to tackle absentee landlords and bring shops back into use?
Context
Empty shops that are rundown because of absentee landlords are a blight on town centres, but the council is fixing the problem through clean-up orders.
Jim McMahon
I thank my hon. Friend for his work championing his high street. The Government have allocated £24.8 million to the Long Eaton town deal, which is funding high street redevelopment projects such as public realm improvements. I would be very happy to meet him to discuss what more we can do.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-07
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I thank the Secretary of State for her warm words. I am looking forward to working constructively with her and her team. May I begin by paying tribute to PC Matthew Blades and PC Tom Clough, who were killed in a horrific head-on collision on the A66 last month? The car that collided with them was travelling in the wrong direction. My thoughts are with their families and friends at this terrible, terrible time. Their deaths have renewed concern about videos on TikTok and other platforms that glorify dangerous driving and police chases. The behaviour these videos encourage can have fatal consequences. We know the Government recently raised this issue with social media companies, yet the content remains up. What more will the Minister and the Secretary of State do to ensure that TikTok and other platforms crack down on that before more lives are lost?
Context
Rebecca Paul highlighted the deaths of two police officers in a tragic collision and the concerns about videos on TikTok and other platforms that glorify dangerous driving and police chases.
Lisa Nandy
The hon. Lady is absolutely right, first of all, to pay tribute to those incredible police officers who lost their lives. May I associate myself with her remarks and put on record my sadness, love and sympathy to their families and loved ones? I agree with her that there is more that must be done to tackle what is becoming an epidemic in young people in particular using social media to encourage dangerous behaviour. I have a meeting set up with TikTok in the coming days. We have obviously been in close discussion with it and other social media companies since that tragic, appalling incident, but there is more that we as a Government intend to do and I would be very happy to meet her to discuss that further.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-03
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If she will make a statement on her departmental responsibilities. Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick recently said that its business is now well over 90% digitally distributed. Take-Two has confirmed that the physical box of “Grand Theft Auto VI” will not contain a physical disc, but will instead contain a download code. Killing physical media prevents consumers trading in or sharing their games, and it erodes the concept of true ownership of a product. What is the Secretary of State doing to support the physical ownership of video games, as well as music and film?
Context
Adam Thompson asked about the Secretary of State's responsibilities and her view on the shift to digital distribution in the gaming industry.
Lisa Nandy
The Minister of State, Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, my right hon. Friend the Member for Edinburgh South (Ian Murray) has just reminded me that he and I are so old that we started out loading cassette tapes when we played video games as kids. I am aware that people feel very strongly about this issue. My hon. Friend will know that decisions around media formats are ultimately for companies, but we as a Government believe that companies should always be clear with customers about what they are paying for. That is why we have commissioned the Chartered Trading Standards Institute to develop guidance that will clarify people's ownership rights when they purchase digital games, music and films.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-03
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This Government have promised to deliver new homes, but our road network is overloaded. My constituents are concerned about growing strain on junction 25 of the M1 as National Highways also acknowledges. Can the Minister explain how National Highways and local authorities can work better together to listen to and respond to concerns, and ensure that new homes come alongside proper upgrades to infrastructure?
Context
Concern over road network strain on junction 25 of the M1 due to increasing traffic and need for new homes.
Simon Lightwood
National Highways and local authorities are working together through initiatives, such as the £165 million growth and housing accelerator fund, to unlock housing sites where transport infrastructure is a barrier. I will ask National Highways to reach out to my hon. Friend.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-16
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What steps is the Secretary of State taking to ensure that the growing demand for air conditioning is met through energy-efficient technologies and clean electricity?
Context
Discussion on decarbonising heating and the need for energy-efficient cooling technologies due to extreme heatwaves.
Ed Miliband
We announced extending support under the boiler upgrade scheme to include air-to-air heat pumps, which offer both heating and cooling. Grants of £2,500 are available for installation, and these systems also benefit from VAT relief at 0%.
Session: Climate Change Weather Events 2026-07-07
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What steps he plans to take following recent weather events to help tackle climate change?
Context
Recent weather events have highlighted the urgent need for action on climate change. The UK experienced record-breaking heatwaves in June.
Ed Miliband
The heatwave last month saw the maximum all-time June temperature record in the UK set at 37.7°C, 2° higher than at any time since records began. Without human-induced climate change, this European heatwave would have been virtually impossible. The Government will continue to follow the science and protect current and future generations.
Session: Climate Change Weather Events 2026-07-07
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What steps will the Minister take to ensure that Best Start family hubs improve school readiness and help close attainment gaps before children reach the classroom?
Context
A new Best Start family hub is opening in Cotmanhay to support deprived communities.
Olivia Bailey
The Government aims for record proportions of children to be ready for school, transforming early education and family support services with record investment. The Minister is proud of the work done to set a stretching target for record proportions of children to start school ready.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given that lesson, can the Minister outline how the UK is working with international partners to strengthen pandemic preparedness through this response, including by improving surveillance, early warning systems and rapid response capacity in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, so that outbreaks such as Ebola are contained before they pose a wider global health risk?
Context
The covid-19 pandemic demonstrated the importance of early action to contain outbreaks at source, raising questions about strengthening pandemic preparedness through improved surveillance and rapid response capacity.
Chris Elmore
The UK supports Africa-led responses, backing Government-owned surveillance systems through World Bank and global health organisations, providing UK expertise through mechanisms such as the UK Health Security Agency's public health team.
Session: Ebola Outbreaks
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What steps her Department is taking with international partners to support the response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo?
Context
The UK has committed £26.9 million to support the current Ebola outbreak response within the Democratic Republic of Congo, but concerns remain about disease surveillance and rapid response.
Chris Elmore
The UK has allocated £26.9 million of UK aid funding to support disease surveillance and rapid response, improve infection prevention and control, and work alongside WHO and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention to scale up the response and adapt existing programmes.
Session: Ebola Outbreaks
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App-based fitness classes can lead to addiction due to high intensity and frequency, especially affecting those with low BMI or eating disorders. Will the Secretary of State review whether mandatory access limitations could be implemented in such apps?
Context
High-intensity fitness apps can lead to addiction, particularly for individuals with low body mass index or eating disorders. The questioner's inquiry about implementing access limitation tools was dismissed.
James Murray
My hon. Friend raises a critical issue, especially with modern device features. I will look into it further and discuss it with him in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State please explain the measures his Department is taking to address the decade-long trend of growing youth unemployment?
Context
The MP highlights the rise in NEETs by nearly 250,000 between 2021 and 2024. He mentions support through the youth guarantee but asks for further measures addressing the decade-long trend of growing youth unemployment.
Pat McFadden
The number of young people not in education, employment or training rose during the previous Government's term. The current government is implementing a youth guarantee offering training, work experience, and hiring incentives for small and medium-sized employers to create regular jobs and apprenticeships.
Session: Unemployment
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What steps will the Government take to protect British workers and secure supply chains for the UK defence industry? The question highlights the importance of the UK's defence industry as a cornerstone of national security and an engine for growth, with many high-quality roles in the east midlands.
Context
The question is prompted by concerns about the importance of national security workers in Erewash, particularly those employed at firms such as Rolls-Royce or small and medium-sized advanced manufacturers building critical components.
Dan Jarvis
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising that important point. The UK's defence industry is a cornerstone of our national security and an engine for growth. We are committed to spending £2 £2.5 billion more with defence SMEs and recently launched the Defence Office for Small Business Growth, a key driver to improve SME access to defence opportunities. The £31 billion that we spend annually with the defence industry in the UK powers over 460,000 jobs and 24,000 apprenticeships nationwide, including many high-quality roles in the east midlands.
Session: National Security
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What steps his Department is taking to improve national security. The Cabinet Office is driving implementation of the national security strategy, focusing on AI companies and innovators to work with the Government to build national-scale AI cyber-defence capabilities, and announced that a further £90 million will be invested to boost cyber-resilience.
Context
The question arises from a need to address national security concerns and improve resilience against cyber threats.
Dan Jarvis
The Cabinet Office is driving implementation of the national security strategy. At CyberUK yesterday, I called on AI companies and innovators to work with the Government to build national-scale AI cyber-defence capabilities, and announced that a further £90 million will be invested to boost cyber-resilience. I also visited His Majesty's Naval Base Clyde, where the Government are investing £250 million to strengthen our national security and deter our adversaries.
Session: National Security
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My constituent George works for the STFC. He highlighted that UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is developing a model that significantly reduces spending for all areas of science under the STFC's remit, including quantum science, particle astrophysics, and theoretical physics. Given that the STFC has warned staff about potential job losses and ran a voluntary exit scheme last year, can you reassure the research community, including my constituent in Chorleywood, that the STFC science facilities and national labs have necessary funding and will continue commissioning excellent research?
Context
The MP's constituent George works at the STFC, which is facing significant reductions in spending across various areas of science. The STFC has warned staff about potential job losses.
Liz Kendall
I reassure constituents in Chorleywood and people across the country that this Government has provided the biggest ever funding settlement for science. The STFC's budget is actually rising slightly but is flat over the spending review period because of inflation. We need to get budgets under control with expert help, prioritising important research while backing curiosity-led research, especially in physics.
Session: UK Research and Innovation
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I am concerned that despite the Government's increases in funding generally, the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) is currently dealing with a significant reduction in funding. Michele Dougherty, the executive chair of STFC, has placed the blame on decisions made before her arrival. The scientific community will feel the brunt of this funding crunch. What steps are being taken to ensure UK science is not damaged by STFC's historical failings?
Context
The MP is concerned about the significant reduction in funding for the Science and Technology Facilities Council, particularly affecting particle physics, astronomy, and nuclear physics.
Liz Kendall
A lot of concerns have been raised by the physics community about this issue. The STFC's budget is actually flat over the spending review, but there have been overspends in its budget over the past five years, leading to a lack of funding for other projects. STFC and UKRI are looking at how to balance their budgets, and they will engage closely with the physics community over the coming months.
Session: UK Research and Innovation
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In December 2024, 18-year-old Noah Smedley from Ilkeston in my constituency was killed when he was stabbed by a 17-year-old armed with a Rambo knife. For a young man to lose his life this way, murdered by another teenager, was absolutely devastating to our community. There was a very deep public outcry of grief in this tight-knit town with a strong local identity. Noah's death hit the town profoundly. Could the Minister outline the work that the Government are doing to protect young people, especially teenage boys, from the horrors of knife crime?
Context
Noah Smedley, an 18-year-old from Ilkeston, was killed in December 2024 by a 17-year-old with a Rambo knife. This tragic incident caused significant public outcry and grief.
Jake Richards
Each case is an absolutely tragedy, and Noah's is no different. On behalf of the Government, I send our commiserations and thoughts to his family and, indeed, the whole community, which suffers when these events occur. In the past 18 months of this Labour Government, we have seen an 8% reduction in knife crime, which is a start. Very recently, we invested a further £15 million in the turnaround programme—a specialist programme aimed at early intervention, working particularly with young people and teenagers. We have set out a three-year funding settlement for youth justice services, offering for the first time in a generation that stability and certainty. We have taken tens of thousands of dangerous knives off the streets, and have invested in violence reduction units, young futures hubs and young futures panels. There is a lot more to do, but this Labour Government are getting on with the job of tackling knife crime.
Session: Knife Crime Support for Children
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What steps he is taking to help support children involved in knife crime through the criminal justice system. We have introduced reforms to ensure that every child caught with a knife receives a mandatory plan to prevent reoffending. There is still much more to do, and we will set out a cross-Government plan to reform the youth justice system over the coming weeks.
Context
The question arises from the concern over children being caught with knives and the need for a mandatory plan to prevent reoffending. The Labour Government has introduced reforms.
Jake Richards
This Labour Government are committed to halving knife violence. We have introduced reforms to ensure that every child caught with a knife receives a mandatory plan to prevent reoffending. There is still much more to do, and we will set out a cross-Government plan to reform the youth justice system over the coming weeks.
Session: Knife Crime Support for Children
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With almost 8% of 16 and 17-year-olds not in education, employment or training, Derbyshire is the worst county in the east midlands for NEET. In New Stanton Park in Ilkeston, major investments are bringing good manufacturing jobs back to Erewash. Will the Secretary of State share the work he is doing to ensure that apprenticeships are available to disadvantaged young people so that they can thrive, instead of being left behind?
Context
The right hon. Alan Milburn is working on a report about young people and work, and it is pertinent to Derbyshire's high NEET rates.
Pat McFadden
My hon. Friend brings valuable experience to this matter, including his experience of teaching engineering apprentices at the University of Nottingham. We are committed to ensuring that disadvantaged young people have access to high-quality apprenticeships and can benefit from the new jobs being created in places such as Erewash as a result of the changes in how the growth and skills levy is used—as I have explained in response to earlier questions—and the extension of youth hubs in the region to give young people who may not be claiming benefit or undertaking an apprenticeship the chance of finding that vital first job.
Session: Young People and Work Report
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What recent progress has been made on the young people and work report. With almost 8% of 16 and 17-year-olds not in education, employment or training, Derbyshire is the worst county in the east midlands for NEET. In New Stanton Park in Ilkeston, major investments are bringing good manufacturing jobs back to Erewash. Will the Secretary of State share the work he is doing to ensure that apprenticeships are available to disadvantaged young people so that they can thrive, instead of being left behind?
Context
The right hon. Alan Milburn is working on a report about young people and work, and it is pertinent to Derbyshire's high NEET rates.
Pat McFadden
My hon. Friend brings valuable experience to this matter, including his experience of teaching engineering apprentices at the University of Nottingham. We are committed to ensuring that disadvantaged young people have access to high-quality apprenticeships and can benefit from the new jobs being created in places such as Erewash as a result of the changes in how the growth and skills levy is used—as I have explained in response to earlier questions—and the extension of youth hubs in the region to give young people who may not be claiming benefit or undertaking an apprenticeship the chance of finding that vital first job.
Session: Young People and Work Report
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Over the past few months, I have been involved in the new Long Eaton Business Partnership, which is bringing together business owners, private investors, health investors and local politicians. The goal is to shape the future of our town and revive Long Eaton's town centre. Will the Minister tell us more about her work, through the new Office for the Impact Economy, to collaborate with social investors and philanthropists to bring funding to local communities?
Context
Adam Thompson is involved in the Long Eaton Business Partnership aiming to shape the future of the town and revive its town centre.
Satvir Kaur
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend, and to the important work being done by the new Long Eaton Business Partnership. This is exactly the kind of project to which the Office for the Impact Economy adds value. I am very happy to meet him to discuss how that can be maximised in his constituency, to improve the neighbourhood for his constituents.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister outline what further steps the Government are taking to support the continued integration of Hongkongers into UK communities, and to ensure they feel fully welcomed?
Context
Residents from Hong Kong have been integrating into various UK towns and cities, such as Long Eaton.
Seema Malhotra
The UK has welcomed around 200,000 Hongkongers since 2021. We will continue to uphold our commitment to them. Their contribution enriches our economy and society. The welcome programme has delivered successful integration for the British national overseas community, and mainstream provisions will continue to be available.
Session: Hong Kong Human Rights Situation
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I thank the Secretary of State for her answers. I used to be one of those research scientists. I worked in metrology for advanced manufacturing, so I am glad that the Government have identified advanced manufacturing as one of the eight sectors with the greatest growth potential. From the Victorian gentlemen scientists who redefined the way we see our universe to the women driving the fourth industrial revolution, the British have always been able to make the best things. How is the Secretary of State supporting novel technologies through the technology readiness scale to maximise growth for small and medium-sized enterprises in Erewash, such as Atlas Composite Technologies, Status Metrology and R. A. Labone?
Context
The MP referenced his experience as a research scientist, specifically mentioning the role of advanced manufacturing. He highlighted companies like Atlas Composite Technologies, Status Metrology, and R. A. Labone.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Liz Kendall)
I am very proud that my hon. Friend sits on the Government Benches, with all his experience in this critical area. As part of our backing for research and development, we are doubling R&D investment in critical technologies such as engineering biology, AI and quantum, with R&D investment in AI alone growing from £600 million to £1.6 billion. Today—in a mere 20 minutes, I believe—UKRI will publish the level of direct support to be given to each of the industrial strategy sectors, and that includes the support we are providing to our vital small businesses.
Session: Modern Industrial Strategy
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Much of Erewash is on a floodplain, so the Flood Re scheme is an enormous help to my constituents, particularly those who were catastrophically affected by Storm Babet in 2023. However, local businesses have told me that there is no similar scheme to support their properties. What steps is the Minister taking to support businesses that are struggling after severe flooding episodes?
Context
The MP raised concerns about local businesses struggling after severe flooding events. The Flood Re scheme supports homeowners but lacks similar support for businesses.
Emma Hardy
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that important issue. I share his concern about the ability of local businesses to recover from flood events. The Government are investing £10.5 billion to better protect 900,000 properties around the country. The flood resilience taskforce will look into what more can be done to support homes and businesses during the recovery period after flooding.
Session: Topical Questions
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Erewash’s industrial base was built on the Erewash canal, which is now a lovely leisure spot for my constituents. But abandoned boats, like the two near Sandiacre lock that sat rotting for over two years, pose serious risks to public safety and local wildlife. I was very glad to work recently with the Canal & River Trust to get those two boats removed. Can the Minister advise how we can support the Canal & River Trust in the future with the tools that it needs to get similar boats removed in a more timely manner?
Context
Two abandoned boats near Sandiacre lock in Erewash had been rotting for over two years, posing risks to public safety and local wildlife.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
My hon. Friend raises an important issue that affects many communities along our waterways. The removal of abandoned vessels is crucial to maintaining public safety, protecting wildlife and preserving the beauty of our canals and rivers. I am committed to working closely with the Canal & River Trust and other relevant organisations to ensure they have the necessary resources and support to address this issue effectively.
Session: Topical Questions
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Rolls-Royce in Derby has recently been announced as the preferred bidder for the delivery of small modular reactors, which means that many of my Erewash constituents will become the beating heart of the workforce that delivers the reactors. Can the Minister explain how Derbyshire’s finest SMRs will help to end our reliance on foreign oil and gas?
Context
Rolls-Royce in Derby has been announced as the preferred bidder for delivering small modular reactors, impacting Erewash constituents.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Michael Shanks)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right; the Government are committed to delivering a new golden age of nuclear, securing an abundance of clean power after 14 years of dither and delay from the Conservatives, and with that will come investment across the country. On 10 June, following a robust two-year process, Great British Energy Nuclear selected Rolls-Royce SMR as its preferred bidder to deliver the UK’s first small modular reactor, subject to final Government approvals and contract signature. The Government are making available £2.5 billion across the spending review to enable this to be one of Europe’s first SMR programmes.
Session: New Nuclear
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Does the Secretary of State agree that the UK industrial strategy is of deep importance to residents of Northern Ireland?
Context
The UK industrial strategy is being developed, and it includes discussions with Northern Ireland.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I do indeed, and I wish my hon. Friend every success with the New Stanton Park redevelopment. At the roundtable that I co-chaired last week, we had representatives from manufacturing, from cyber, from small businesses such as Alchemy, and from the chambers of commerce for Derry/Londonderry and for Causeway Coast.
Session: UK Industrial Strategy
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May I thank the Minister for her answer, and also extend my thoughts to Joanne’s family and friends? In recent years, women and girls have increasingly expressed distrust in the justice system to resolve cases of violence and sexual harassment, as so few of those events result in prosecution. What steps is the Minister taking to restore trust in the justice system, so that my constituents in Erewash know that they have somewhere to turn when they are targeted by such hate crimes?
Context
The MP asks about restoring confidence in the justice system following concerns raised by women and girls about the low prosecution rate for cases of violence and sexual harassment.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones)
As part of this Government’s safer streets mission, we have committed to improving confidence in the police and the criminal justice system. We will introduce specialist rape and sexual offence teams in every police force, as well as domestic abuse experts in 999 control rooms. We will also give victims of adult rape access to an independent legal adviser to help them understand and uphold their rights from day one. I want every victim, whether in Erewash or in Pontypridd, to know that they are heard, and that this Government support them.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Jim is my close friend and he was struck by a sudden pain at work due to a spinal stroke, leaving him unable to walk and requiring medication which limits his ability to work consistently. However, the benefits system may result in sanctions if Jim were able to perform some work occasionally. What steps will be taken to ensure that individuals like Jim can get back into work without fear of sanctions?
Context
Adam Thompson shares the story of his constituent Jim, who suffered a spinal stroke and now faces challenges in managing his condition while working. He points out that benefit arrangements could lead to sanctions for individuals like Jim who have occasional bursts of productivity.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
We acknowledge that the health and disability benefits system needs reform, particularly regarding barriers faced by disabled people such as Jim who wish to work. We are determined to change this system to enable more opportunities for disabled individuals.
Session: People with Disabilities and Long-term Health Conditions Work Support
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The Joint European Torus fusion experiment in Oxfordshire has been delivering fantastic scientific results, standing at the forefront of UK science and the fusion experiment internationally. As JET begins to be decommissioned as we move forward to our next large experiment in Bassetlaw, can the Minister comment on how we will retain all the excellent science expertise that has been built up in JET over the past decade?
Context
The question discusses the Joint European Torus fusion experiment in Oxfordshire, which is being decommissioned as a new large experiment begins.
Kerry McCarthy
I got to see the JET project when I visited Culham. There is huge potential for a cluster there. Many more companies are being attracted to that sector. My hon. Friend is right that we need to maximise the skills that are there, but I am confident, having spoken to companies that have been attracted to Culham, and having spoken to international companies too, that we will continue to do so.
Session: Topical Questions
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Thanking the Secretary of State for her work supporting the steel industry and communities, including Port Talbot. The Chancellor confirmed £80 million for the transition board in the Budget. Why was this funding necessary?
Context
The Chancellor confirmed £80 million of funding for the transition board, which is chaired by the Secretary of State. This money was previously promised but not funded.
Jo Stevens
In her first week as Welsh Secretary, she discovered that the £80 million promised by the previous Conservative Government for the transition board was part of unfunded promises. She fought for this money to ensure workers and businesses were not unsupported.
Session: Support for the Steel Industry
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What steps is the government taking to support the steel industry in Wales? The steel industry is crucial for economic growth and energy transition. With additional funding of £2.5 billion being discussed alongside the existing £500 million for Tata's electric arc furnace at Port Talbot, what specific actions are being taken?
Context
The steel industry faces significant challenges, with organisations like Tata Steel requiring substantial financial support.
Jo Stevens
Steelmaking is key to our missions to grow the economy and deliver clean power by 2030. We are committed to providing up to £2.5 billion for steel, including the £500 million already earmarked for Tata's electric arc furnace at Port Talbot. The Government will continue delivering funding such as the £80 million transition board fund announced in the Budget.
Session: Support for the Steel Industry
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What steps have the Government taken to support the Public Sector Fraud Authority to prevent, detect and recover fraud and error?
Context
The Public Sector Fraud Authority works to prevent, detect and recover fraud across various risks.
Georgia Gould
At the Five Eyes summit last month, I reiterated this Government's firm commitment to tackling fraud. We are building a wide anti-fraud coalition on advanced artificial intelligence and analytics, and taking further action on enforcement.
Session: Topical Questions
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How can constituents in Erewash access these interim payments?
Context
Applications for interim payments have been opened for victims of the infected blood scandal.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
Details are available on the gov.uk website. The Infected Blood Compensation Authority sends newsletters, and Members can write to the Cabinet Office regarding specific cases.
Session: Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
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Further to the question on climate change, what steps is the Minister taking to support climate change development internationally?
Context
Previous questions raised concerns about the UK's commitment to international climate development, especially under the new UK government.
Anneliese Dodds
My hon. Friend raises an incredibly important point. It is critical that the UK can speak with credibility on these issues—and now, under the new UK Government, we can, given the creation of GB Energy and the other measures that we have taken. We are ensuring that climate leadership is always to the fore, including in the conferences of the parties. Of course, the COP nature summit in Colombia is fast approaching.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Higher Education: Financial Sustainability — [Valerie Vaz in the Chair]
05 December 2024
Responding: Janet Daby
Main Concerns
['Universities in the UK face declining investment despite recognition of their world-leading status. The financial sustainability challenge is exacerbated by reduced teaching grants, international student decline, and higher pension contributions for staff. These issues threaten economic growth, workforce skills development, and global standing.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should commit to increasing funding for teaching through index-linking fees to inflation, restoring previous levels of the teaching grant, ensuring policy stability for international students, establishing a sustainable solution for increased pension contributions, and developing a contract with the university sector to manage growth in international student recruitment.']
Education and Skills Reform
09 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
16 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Estimates Day - [2nd Allotted Day]Estimates Day
30 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government's response to the Select Committee’s “Game On” report acknowledged the importance of physical activity but failed to deliver on its promises due to a lack of funding and clear action. T...
Nottingham Maternity and Neonatal Services
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Pathways Study: Puberty Suppression
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
East Midland Railway Collision
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Milburn Review: Interim Report
02 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East: Economic Response
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Costs for Motorists
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Debate on the Address
14 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The UK labour market is performing well with high employment rates, low unemployment compared to OECD countries, and rising real wages. The government's economic management has put the country in a be...
Ilkeston Market Place
29 October 2025
The petition highlights concerns about the insufficient pedestrianisation of Ilkeston market place and calls for new anti-vehicle measures to enhance public safety.
View Full Petition -->
Ilkeston Market Place
13 October 2025
The petition addresses the lack of appropriate anti-vehicle measures on Ilkeston Market Place, which contributed to the murder of Samuel Wilson by a drunk driver.
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
87.6%
85 of 97 votes
Aye Votes
32
33.0% of votes
No Votes
53
54.6% of votes
Abstentions
12
12.4% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
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: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
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
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
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 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
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 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
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
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
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 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
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: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
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: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
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 NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
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: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
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 NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
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 AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
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
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
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
2
PMQs Asked
35
Ministerial Questions Asked
53
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
97
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
-45% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+161% above average
This MP:
35
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+991% above average
This MP:
53
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-18% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+27% above average
This MP:
87.6
Average:
69.2
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 Adam Thompson's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.