Alex Sobel
MP for Leeds Central and Headingley
Labour (Co-op)
8 Jun 2017 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I am gravely concerned about Bobi Wine, opposition activists and British citizens in Uganda. What can we do to safeguard those people and ensure that we do not see violence and bloodshed on the streets of Uganda?
Context
A sham election took place in Uganda, where people were prevented from voting, government officials stuffed ballot boxes, and the military is pursuing Bobi Wine with deadly intent. British citizens are also at risk.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr David Lammy)
We call for peaceful and credible elections. This dispute must be resolved peacefully and legally. Opposition candidates must be able to campaign freely. We will, of course, continue to make representations forcefully.
Session: PMQs
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Was the Prime Minister aware of the investigation when he appointed the right hon. Gentleman to his Cabinet and as chairman of the Conservative party? Will the Prime Minister demand accountability from his Cabinet members over their tax affairs?
Context
The right hon. Member for Stratford-on-Avon (Nadhim Zahawi) was forced to pay millions to HMRC to settle a tax dispute.
Rishi Sunak
My right hon. Friend has already addressed the matter in full and there is nothing more that I can add.
Session: PMQs
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Prime Minister, food prices are going up, rents are going up and energy costs are going up. Every day, I have more and more constituents coming to me to say they thought the day would never come—things just cost too much. At the same time, people are anchored to the minimum wage, working two, three, four or five jobs on low wages with in-work benefits. They just cannot afford it. At the same time, we have a Minister, the hon. Member for Redditch (Rachel Maclean), saying that to survive they should take on more hours or get a better job. Does the Prime Minister agree with his Minister, or does he agree with me that we should have an emergency Budget?
Context
The MP highlighted rising living costs and low wages, stating that constituents were struggling to afford daily expenses.
Boris Johnson
I accept that of course there are economic pressures on our country now caused by the factors that we have mentioned, but that is why we have already increased the minimum wage by £1,000 per year for those who are on it, already increased universal credit by £1,000 a year, and all the other measures—billions and billions of tax that we are putting into supporting incomes. The reason we can do that is that we have strong economic fundamentals, with unemployment—I do not know when the hon. Gentleman was born—at the lowest it has been since 1974.
Assessment
The response did not directly address the need for an emergency budget and instead cited current measures.
Session: PMQs
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I was out speaking to constituents who have seen their bills increase from £100 to £170 per month due to poor insulation and higher costs. The Government failed to insulate homes and control fuel prices. My constituent called the Prime Minister despicable for having no plan to help families struggling with living costs.
Context
A constituent faces significant fuel bill increases while another criticizes the government's lack of a plan for cost-of-living support.
Boris Johnson
The Government has delivered economic support worth £12 billion this year. We have a jobs-led recovery, which includes the fastest G7 growth.
Assessment
Cutting VAT on energy and getting oil/gas companies to contribute more was not addressed.
Redirected To Brexit
Session: PMQs
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I refer the House to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests. On 19 November, the Secretary of State made the welcome announcement that we would end the abuse of ticket resale. Since then, gig goers at grassroots music venues have been ripped off by tens of millions of pounds. With the new Session coming, will that Bill be in the King's Speech? Can gig goers look forward to the end of being ripped off by touts?
Context
The MP referred to a previous announcement about ending the abuse of ticket resale. Since then, gig goers have been ripped off by tens of millions of pounds.
Ian Murray
We are determined to end ticket touting in this country. It has been ripping off fans for too long. We have a strong policy to deal with that, and we will bring the legislation forward as soon as possible.
Session: Grassroots Music Venues
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What can the Foreign Secretary tell me about the veracity of the elections? What is she doing to protect British citizens in Uganda and to ensure the safety of members of the National Unity Platform?
Context
Uganda held elections with reports of people being prevented from going to polling stations, ballot stuffing, violence, and threats against the opposition.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Chris Elmore)
We have consistently advocated for peaceful and credible elections, and we encourage any disputes to be addressed through peaceful and legal means. In relation to the opposition leader, we have engaged across the political spectrum to advocate for peaceful elections, including for the opposition candidates to be able to campaign freely and safely, and we continue to do so, including through our high commission.
Session: Topical Questions
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One in five new cars is now purchased through the Motability Scheme. This presents an unprecedented opportunity for the British car industry, as the scheme stipulates what cars its users can buy. Has the Secretary of State considered that we could hugely increase the sales of British cars by stipulating that only British-built cars can be bought—and this is public money—by Motability users, which would not just safeguard thousands of British jobs, but create a world-leading industry in accessible vehicles?
Context
Motability scheme accounts for one in five new car purchases, presenting an opportunity to boost the UK automotive industry. The question explores whether stipulating only British-built cars could safeguard jobs and create a leading accessible vehicle sector.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Peter Kyle)
That was a very thoughtful contribution, and I am very grateful for it. The Motability Foundation is an independent charity and is regulated by the Charity Commission, but it does engage fully with the Government in the most respectful way. As my hon. Friend would imagine, I have instructed my officials to work with those in the Department for Work and Pensions to see how we can make recommendations and certainly to support the take-up of British cars as much as possible. This Government are of course committed to the growth of the automotive sector. We are providing support through programmes such as DRIVE35, the electric car grant, which will invest up to £2.5 billion of support into zero emission manufacturing across the UK.
Session: Motability Operations
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Will the Minister ensure that the UK does not engage in critical minerals extraction in West Papua before a UN High Commissioner visit takes place to assess the human rights situation?
Context
In 2018, President Joko Widodo promised the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights that he would be allowed to visit West Papua. No such visit has been facilitated by Indonesia despite two high commissioners' efforts.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Catherine West)
The UK continues to support the visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and promotes best practices on sustainability and respect for human rights through initiatives such as the voluntary principles on security and human rights.
Session: West Papua Critical Minerals Human Rights
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I welcome my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and his team to their places. I have discussed with many of them the chronic human rights situation in West Papua over many years. In 2019, President Widodo invited the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit West Papua, but that visit has not yet taken place. What steps are the Government taking to ensure that such a visit takes place, with both the Indonesian Government and the United Nations?
Context
There is a chronic human rights situation in West Papua. In 2019, President Widodo invited the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit but it has not happened yet.
Catherine West
The UK strongly supports efforts by authorities and civil society in Papua. We continue to monitor the situation, including internal displacement caused by clashes between separatists and Indonesian security forces. The UK remains supportive of a visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why will the Secretary of State not allow Leeds to build even better zero carbon homes?
Context
Government introduced the zero carbon homes standard, then scrapped it. The future homes standard now has centralised support but local authorities like Leeds want to exceed standards.
Michael Gove
We have a good relationship with Leeds City Council, and indeed with its leader and chief executive, so let me investigate.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister assure that the conversation will launch soon, including a ban on advertising and selling of elephant tourism?
Context
The Animals Act was passed to ban activities involving captive wild animals in tourist entertainment.
Mark Spencer
Future decisions will need to be evidence-based and subject to parliamentary scrutiny. We are exploring options for progress.
Session: Topical Questions
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When will the Minister resume funding given interim reports and no evidence of wrongdoing by Israeli?
Context
US, Canada, Sweden have resumed UNRWA funding despite lack of evidence of wrongdoing by Israel. The British public are concerned about starvation in Gaza.
Andrew Mitchell
No British funding is due until April. We await OIOS and Catherine Colonna's reports to ensure adequate supplies are available.
Session: Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
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If he will resume funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. The UK Government have halted financial support to UNRWA, despite a growing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
Context
The UK has suspended UNRWA funding. Gaza faces severe humanitarian crisis.
Andrew Mitchell
We are doing all we can to increase aid into Gaza. With our allies, we will take decisions on the future of UNRWA funding after scrutinising Catherine Colonna's interim report on UNRWA neutrality.
Session: Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
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The Ministry of Justice released statistics showing a 63% rise in self-harm incidents among female prisoners and a 24% overall increase. What assessment has the Secretary of State made of the impact of MOJ policies on these increases?
Context
Statistics show a significant increase in self-harm incidents among female prisoners.
Edward Argar
We are delivering our safety commitment outlined in the prisons strategy White Paper, including by introducing ligature-resistant cells and funding a study to understand deaths. We are also rolling out an emotional resilience programme.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that unconscious biases in music, films and art against certain social groups will be reinforced when AI is trained on these materials? Will the Government use a code of conduct for copyright and AI to address this issue?
Context
The question addresses the Government's role in regulating AI to prevent bias reinforcement against under-represented groups.
John Whittingdale
Algorithmic bias is being studied by the Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation, but no specific commitment was made to address this through a code of conduct or AI Bill.
Session: Artificial Intelligence Creative Sector
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of AI on under-represented groups in the creative industries?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the representation and inclusion issues within the UK's creative sector.
John Whittingdale
There is ongoing work to develop a framework of regulation for AI, including studying algorithmic bias by the Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation. However, no mention was made of a specific code of conduct or an AI Bill.
Session: Artificial Intelligence Creative Sector
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Last week, I met representatives of the National Farmers Union at the Great Yorkshire Show. We discussed the great need for new skills and a skilled workforce in areas such as agro-ecology. What work is his Department doing to link specialist agricultural colleges with the non-specialist FE and HE sector?
Context
The MP discussed the need for new skills in agriculture during a meeting with the National Farmers Union at the Great Yorkshire Show.
Robert Halfon
The hon. Gentleman makes an important point. We have good land colleges and we are doing everything we can to support them. There are two institute of technology colleges in Yorkshire, although not in his area. I am sure that he will be pleased with the investment of £88 million in his area into FE, sixth form and the university technical college, as well as a grammar school. We are doing a lot of work on agricultural T-levels as well.
Session: Institutional Partnerships Further and Higher Education
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What steps she is taking to increase partnerships between further education colleges and higher education institutions to help increase learning opportunities?
Context
The MP noted the importance of increasing learning opportunities by enhancing partnerships between FE and HE.
Robert Halfon
We are transforming tertiary education by building state of the art prestigious institute of technology colleges, backed by £300 million and led by further education and higher education businesses. We have also introduced the lifelong loan entitlement—it is in the House of Lords at the moment. That will allow higher and further education to collaborate, offering short courses and the transfer of courses between FE and HE institutions.
Session: Institutional Partnerships Further and Higher Education
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Did you see King's College London research linking conspiracy beliefs to antisemitism? What are you doing to tackle conspiracism, misinformation and fake news online, why are measures so weak in the Online Safety Bill, and why was a legal but harmful provision removed?
Context
The question stems from research indicating a link between conspiracy theories and antisemitism, particularly online. The MP is concerned about the Online Safety Bill's effectiveness in addressing these issues.
Michael Gove
There is significant overlap between antisemitism and conspiracy theories. However, with the Online Safety Bill it is important to balance free speech rights with vigilance against hate, and this Government are absolutely committed to combating antisemitism wherever it rears its head.
Session: Antisemitism
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What recent assessment has been made of the potential implications for policies due to levels of antisemitism in the last 12 months?
Context
The question arises from recent assessments of antisemitism levels in the last 12 months, highlighting a concerning trend.
Michael Gove
We have paid close attention to the concerning figures produced by the Home Office and the Community Security Trust, which have shown the continued prevalence of antisemitism in our society. We are considering Lord Mann's recent reports on the subject, which we will respond to in due course, and we have increased the annual Jewish community protective security grant to £15 million in 2023-24.
Session: Antisemitism
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Does the Secretary of State agree with Lord Goldsmith's critique that before taking office, the Prime Minister assured party members via him that he would continue implementing the action plan on animal welfare but abandoned these commitments?
Context
Lord Goldsmith resigned from the government over delays in implementing promised actions such as ending live exports, banning primates as pets, shark fin imports, hunting trophies from vulnerable species. The Secretary of State is asked if she agrees with Lord Goldsmith's critique.
Therese Coffey
Of course not. We are getting on with legislation, such as secondary legislation to stop people keeping primates as pets and preparing single-issue Bills.
Session: Animal Welfare
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With the conclusion of events in Russia on Saturday being that Prigozhin has been relocated to Belarus, and Russian tactical nuclear weapons have also been relocated to Belarus, has the Secretary of State undertaken an assessment of the threat to Belarus, which is on the eastern flank of NATO and across much of the northern border of Ukraine? Will it form part of the discussions at the NATO summit in Vilnius?
Context
Belarus has accepted Russia's tactical nuclear weapons following recent events in Russia.
Ben Wallace
The hon. Gentleman raises an important point about the role of Belarus. First, we should recognise that, so far in this illegal invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Belarus has simply supported through the use of its bases, but has itself committed no forces, and the international community would very clearly warn Belarus that it should not do so and join Russia in the folly it is engaged in. It is, of course, a deep concern when we see Russia trying to use Belarus as a sort of satellite state or, indeed, a place to put its nuclear weapons. We keep that under constant review, and we make sure, in the strongest possible terms, that Belarus is aware of the international concerns about its behaviour.
Session: Topical Questions
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Over three quarters of voters support a ban on fur imports. When will the results of the call for evidence be published, so that this country can see what experts really think and we can legislate? Does she agree that fur is best on the back of the animal, not on the back of a human?
Context
The question focuses on the lack of progress in implementing a ban on fur imports following the call for evidence.
Trudy Harrison
We have committed to exploring potential action in relation to animal fur, as set out in the action plan for animal welfare. We have conducted the call for evidence, and we continue to build on our evidence base on the fur sector, which will be used to inform any future action on the fur trade.
Session: Illicit Fur Trade
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I refer to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests as the chair of the all-party parliamentary group for aid match. The Government funding rounds for UK Aid Match and the Gavi and Malaria match funds ended in 2023 and totalled £377 million, which represents just 0.3% of UK overseas development assistance. When will the next round of aid match be announced, how much will be announced and will the Government increase the percentage of ODA that is aid matched?
Context
The Government's UK Aid Match rounds ended in 2023, totaling £377 million.
Andrew Mitchell
The hon. Gentleman is quite right to accentuate the importance of aid match, which has done an enormous amount to swell the funds that can be deployed. I will come back to the House as soon as we are able to set out the amounts we will be spending in the next financial year and, I hope, in the financial year thereafter as well.
Session: Topical Questions
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Confirm that an independent expert panel has been set up, and can he confirm that it will be reporting this month?
Context
The official Government explanation for a mass die-off in the North Sea changed due to overwhelming evidence. An independent panel was promised.
Mark Spencer
The report will be given to the Secretary of State, and I expect it to come this month, in January. We want to get the facts as soon as possible, and respond to them appropriately.
Session: Crustacean Deaths North-east coast
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Thank you, Mr Speaker: I was beginning to lose hope.
The previous Prime Minister made a promise on Northern Powerhouse Rail, but when the announcement came it did not include a new line. This Prime Minister has made a promise on Northern Powerhouse Rail, but will we see a new line between Leeds and Manchester via Bradford that is not an upgrade of the trans-Pennine line; when will the funding be delivered; and when will spades go in the ground? We need that line for the growth that the Government want to see.
The previous Prime Minister made a promise on Northern Powerhouse Rail, but when the announcement came it did not include a new line. This Prime Minister has made a promise on Northern Powerhouse Rail, but will we see a new line between Leeds and Manchester via Bradford that is not an upgrade of the trans-Pennine line; when will the funding be delivered; and when will spades go in the ground? We need that line for the growth that the Government want to see.
Context
The previous Prime Minister made a promise on Northern Powerhouse Rail, but did not include a new line. The current Prime Minister has also made promises.
Kevin Foster
I am delighted to note the support from the Opposition for the statement that the Prime Minister made last week, as I am sure she will be. We will certainly make sure that we set out in detail soon, having engaged with those in the region who have a clear interest in the detail of the plan and how we ensure that we deliver the many benefits that project will bring at the same time as minimising the impact of construction.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Government recently introduced a dual registration scheme to support touring trucks because touring was completely forgotten during the Brexit negotiations. Although we do not have a Minister for this area, can somebody tell me how orchestras that own their own vehicles and do not benefit from the scheme for small-scale operators will be able to operate in this area, helping our creative industries?
Context
Orchestras that own their vehicles do not benefit from the dual registration scheme for touring trucks, which was introduced to support touring during Brexit negotiations.
Nadine Dorries
A huge amount of work has gone into touring, as the hon. Gentleman knows. I am sure that he will be delighted with the recent announcement from Greece that it will, along with Spain and others, open up and allow our musicians and artisans to tour across the EU. Negotiations are taking place on a daily basis and problems are being resolved as we move forward.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister admit that the reporting system is broken and take urgent steps to ensure reliable monitoring so people can enjoy Lake Windermere?
Context
Windermere, England's largest lake, has seen raw sewage pumped into it by United Utilities. Conservationists advise against swimming or letting dogs in the water due to pollution levels, but official figures claim no spills last year and reduced amounts.
Rebecca Pow
We have a sound system in place through the Environment Act, directions to Ofwat, and event duration monitoring by 2023. We demonstrate what is happening with storm sewage overflows, and action will be taken on water companies.
Session: Discharge of Untreated Sewage
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How bio- diversity and renaturing is undertaken in the UK will be guided by the convention on biological diversity. Biodiversity has experienced a catastrophic collapse globally. The United Nations biodiversity COP15 is shortly to resume. What are the Government's strategic goals at COP15? What equivalent headline target is there to the net zero target at COP26, which is well understood in local urban communities and across the UK?
Context
The UN Biodiversity COP15 is imminent, focusing on halting global biodiversity loss.
Rebecca Pow
We have a strengthened duty on local authorities to assess what they can do to further conservation and biodiversity. The aim of the CBD is to get as many countries as possible to sign up to that.
Session: Biodiversity
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On Boxing day 2015, many town and city centres were devastated by floods. Spending on national flood defences has dropped by 10% from 2015 levels. With more frequent storms, how will the Minister defend residential and business properties with adequate climate adaptation this winter?
Context
The MP is concerned about the decline in national flood defence spending since 2015 and its impact on protecting properties during increased storm events.
George Eustice
We have made available £5.2 billion for flood defences over the next few years, and we are working with communities on property resilience, identifying improvements and making grants available for doors to be replaced after floods.
Session: Floor Risk Management Inner Cities
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What practical steps will the UK Government take to ensure that illegal evictions in Silwan and Sheikh Jarrah cease? These evictions are contrary to international peace intentions and against our opposition to illegal settlements.
Context
The question follows from concerns about illegal evictions in Palestinian communities, which contradict the objectives of peace initiatives. The background includes UK's stance on such actions.
James Cleverly
The UK has a close relationship with Israel, allowing direct discussions on sensitive issues. The Minister and his colleagues have discussed opposition to demolitions in Silwan and Sheikh Jarrah directly with the Israeli Government.
Session: Israel and Palestine
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When will the UK Government make a decision on whether to support the International Fund for Israeli-Palestinian Peace? This fund aims at increasing understanding and dialogue but requires more information before decisions can be made.
Context
The question arises from the UK's stance on supporting international peace initiatives between Israel and Palestine. The background includes previous government commitments and ongoing diplomatic relations.
James Cleverly
UK officials are in contact with US Government regarding the International Fund. The US is still at an early stage, so more information is needed before considering collaboration options. UK's overseas business risk guidance does not apply to public bodies or HM Government and opposes illegal settlements under international law.
Session: Israel and Palestine
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I have been speaking to leaders in the tourism industry who are distinctly underwhelmed by the Minister's tourism recovery plan. An inclusivity ambassador, a rail pass and £10 million of vouchers is not the level of ambition that they were expecting from the much vaunted plan. In particular, coach operators, fairgrounds and tour guides missed out on support during the pandemic. What sector-specific support does the Minister plan to give to those areas that missed out on support during the lockdown and pandemic and had to suffer through three consecutive winters with a lack of support from the Government?
Context
The MP speaks to industry leaders who are underwhelmed by the government's tourism recovery plan and asks what specific sector support is planned.
Nigel Huddleston
To date, as the hon. Member will be aware, the Government have provided more than £25 billion of support for the tourism, hospitality and leisure sector. That may not be appreciated by him but I know it has been by the sector as a whole. We are continuing to give support and that number will go up considerably.
Session: Tourism Industry Covid-19
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The national lottery helps fund many charities, cultural organisations and heritage sites. Richard Desmond, who benefitted from higher jackpots and influenced planning decisions for his own development, seeks the licence. Does the Minister believe Mr Desmond is fit and proper?
Context
Richard Desmond, a Conservative party donor who benefited from increased jackpot limits and controversially influenced planning decisions, is seeking to run the national lottery.
John Whittingdale
The applicant should be beyond reproach; it is for the Gambling Commission to determine who meets the highest standards of probity and integrity, based on their own assessment.
Session: Fourth National Lottery Licence
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Did the Minister discuss those measures at the G20 meeting? What consideration has he made on introducing them?
Context
The UK tourism sector is greatly exposed to the lockdown and uncertainty about the summer season.
Nigel Huddleston (Minister of State, Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport)
I congratulate the hon. Member on his first virtual appearance from the Opposition Front Bench. He raises many important issues. We had a constructive conversation with the G20 tourism Ministers, primarily around the recovery programme. We are continuing the dialogue, both domestically and internationally, on all those issues. Of course, the tourism, hospitality and leisure sector has benefited from additional measures including business rate relief, and we will continue the dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure that the sector is looked after.
Session: Covid-19 Heritage and Tourism Sector
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Will he commit to electrifying the Harrogate line so that we can have carbon-neutral travel?
Context
Northern Rail has been brought back into public ownership. New trains are arriving on the network.
Grant Shapps (Secretary of State for Transport)
Deep clean of trains from 1 March, new trains are coming on to the network. No specific commitment to electrify the Harrogate line mentioned in response.
Session: Decarbonising Transport
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Ukraine: Non-recognition of Russian-occupied Territories
29 January 2026
Responding: Stephen Doughty
Main Concerns
['Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine 1,435 days ago. Since Russia’s invasion of Crimea in 2014, the principle of non-recognition has been paramount to protect international law and prevent dangerous precedents for other states wishing to change borders through military aggression. The occupied territories are some of the least free places in the world with over 100,000 civilians killed as of January 2026.']
Specific Asks
['Maintain non-recognition policies to protect territorial integrity and prevent Russian expansionism. Address human rights violations by condemning Russification efforts and protecting Ukrainian children from abduction and false adoption in Russia.']
Legislative Scrutiny: Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill
26 June 2025
Responding: Seema Malhotra
Main Concerns
['The Committee welcomes the intention of the Bill to prevent loss of life at sea and deter organised immigration crime. However, it is concerned that some new offences pose a risk of criminalising refugees and other vulnerable groups, which may interfere with rights under the refugee convention and the European convention on human rights. The provisions could extend beyond the Government’s stated legitimate aim and inadvertently criminalise persons who should be protected.']
Specific Asks
['The Committee proposes amendments to address issues such as clarity of clauses, introduction of mental elements in certain offences, and recommendations for repeal or amendment of specific sections to ensure compliance with human rights obligations.']
Cold and Damp Homes
08 May 2025
Responding: Matthew Pennycook
Main Concerns
['9.6 million households in the UK are at risk of living in cold, damp and energy-inefficient homes; one in three private renters cannot heat their homes to a comfortable temperature over winter with millions living in damp conditions; indoor air quality is less recognised than outdoor air quality but is crucial for health; students and older people particularly vulnerable to cold-related health issues.']
Specific Asks
['The Government’s warm homes plan should address all barriers to securing warm homes for everyone, including extending Awaab’s law to the private rented sector through the Renters’ Rights Bill and updating minimum energy efficiency standards.']
Recycling Funding And Food Waste Management In Leeds
12 January 2021
Main Concerns
["Sobel is concerned about the UK's low recycling rate, which was around 45% in 2017 compared to 54% in Wales. He highlights that Leeds lacks kerb-side glass and Tetra Pac recycling due to a lack of funding from central government. The city council faces £60 million of austerity cuts and additional pressures related to the pandemic, which is leading to proposed closures of recycling centres such as Ellar Ghyll in Otley."]
Specific Asks
['Sobel asks the Minister to address the extra cost pressures on waste and recycling services due to the pandemic. He also requests funding for anaerobic digestion and a reduction in food waste, advocating that surplus food should be donated to charities or food banks before being incinerated. Sobel expresses concern over the planned building of new incinerators predominantly in poorer areas.']
Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Artificial Superintelligence
08 September 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
I am grateful for the opportunity to introduce this Bill alongside respected colleagues representing parties across the House. I also would like to thank ControlAI for its support with the Bill. This ...
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Bill - New Clause 116
02 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I propose New Clause 116 to introduce a cap on donations from overseas contributors to political parties and candidates. This measure is necessary to ensure the integrity of our democratic process and...
Backbench Business
01 September 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
The motion notes the critical threat that SLAPPs pose to press freedom, public interest research, and the right of citizens and campaigners to speak out. It highlights that SLAPPs predominantly target...
Iran
15 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker highlighted the critical situation in Iran, noting Britain’s armed forces' commendable work. He mentioned recent US strikes against Iranian targets, stressing the need for a diplomatic sol...
State of Climate and Nature
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
09 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mohamed argues that successive British Governments have acknowledged the illegality and harmful effects of Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories but have failed to take decisive ...
Puberty Blockers
23 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
As a consultant paediatrician, Caroline Johnson highlights the ethical concerns surrounding the PATHWAYS clinical trial that involves administering puberty-suppressing hormones to children with gender...
The Bill Name (not specified in the provided text) - Schedule 1 - Enforcement and Appeals
16 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. The speaker is moving for the second reading of Schedule 1 which focuses on enforcement measures and appeals processes in the bill.
Russian Shadow Fleet
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
73.5%
72 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
23
23.5% of votes
No Votes
49
50.0% of votes
Abstentions
26
26.5% 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
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 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
DID NOT VOTE
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
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
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
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
4
PMQs Asked
32
Ministerial Questions Asked
216
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
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
+9% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+139% above average
This MP:
32
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+4345% above average
This MP:
216
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+6% above average
This MP:
73.5
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 Alex Sobel's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.