Andrea Leadsom
MP for South Northamptonshire
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Can my right hon. Friend confirm that the roll-out of digital patient records will include a transformational version of the digital red book?
Context
Roll-out of electronic patient records presents an opportunity to digitise the red book for better family health care.
Oliver Dowden
I totally agree and confirm that the digital red book will be rolled out over the next two years, building on my right hon. Friend's tireless campaigning on this issue.
Session: PMQs
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I sincerely congratulate my right hon. Friend and wish him every success. More than three years ago, my constituent Harry Dunn was killed in a tragic road accident. Will my right hon. Friend join me in congratulating Harry Dunn's family on the incredible campaign they have run for more than three years, with huge support from all colleagues across the House, and on finally achieving justice for Harry?
Context
Harry Dunn, a constituent of Andrea Leadsom, was killed in a tragic road accident more than three years ago.
Rishi Sunak
I pay tribute to my right hon. Friend for her role and to the former Foreign Secretary and colleagues across the House for the part that they have played in bringing about that outcome. My thoughts are with the family, and I join my right hon. Friend in her sentiment that it is very welcome.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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I would like to congratulate my right hon. Friend on her new position and wish her success. Can I ask her now to renew her commitment to rolling out “The best start for life” programme, which aims to give every baby the best chance at leading a fulfilling life?
Context
The questioner congratulates the new government and thanks the Prime Minister for her longstanding commitment to support in the earliest years of a child's life.
Elizabeth Truss
My right hon. Friend has done such a fantastic job championing this issue and developing the policies, and I am committed to following through on delivering for children, because we know that intervening early and helping children early is the best way to help those children to have a successful childhood and, ultimately, a fulfilled life.
Assessment
Did not provide specific commitment or timeline for rolling out 'The Best Start for Life' programme beyond general statement of intent
Did Not Address The Request For Concrete Action
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister use the UK's COP presidency to urge countries to fulfill their Glasgow pledges? Does he agree that decarbonization can create jobs?
Context
The question relates to the UK's presidency of the conference of the parties and its impact on global climate action, focusing on job creation through decarbonisation.
Boris Johnson
The transition to green jobs supports 440,000 new positions across the UK. The breakthrough agenda from COP26 could support between 20-30 million global jobs by 2030.
Session: PMQs
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I want to really thank my right hon. Friend for his support for the early years healthy development review and, in particular, for the half a billion pounds of new money at the spending review last week. He often says that talent is spread equally across our country, but opportunity is not, so does he agree that giving every baby the best start in life is the best possible way to level up across our country?
Context
The Prime Minister supports the early years healthy development review and has allocated half a billion pounds at the spending review.
Boris Johnson
Yes, I have listened to my right hon. Friend over many years on this issue and she is 100% right in what she says about the importance of early years. That is why we are investing £500 million to support families and children, including £82 million to create a network of family hubs to bring together services for children of all ages. We are going to continue to invest in children's early years—for example, the offer of 15 hours of early education for disadvantaged two-year-olds that has already benefited 1.1 million disadvantaged kids since 2013.
Session: PMQs
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My right hon. Friend has taken a strong personal interest in the tragic story of my constituent, Harry Dunn. So will he please continue to do everything in his power to reassure Tim and Charlotte, Harry's parents, and all their family that he will try to persuade President Biden to deliver justice for Harry?
Context
Harry Dunn's parents, Tim and Charlotte, have been campaigning for justice since their son died in a car accident near the US Air Force base in RAF Croughton. The case highlights diplomatic issues between the UK and the US.
Boris Johnson
My right hon. Friend is completely right to continue to raise the case of Harry Dunn, and we sympathise deeply with his family. It is a case that we continue to raise with the highest level, and I know that my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has only just raised it with Tony Blinken, the US Secretary of State.
Assessment
Did not provide specific actions or commitments regarding persuading President Biden
Session: PMQs
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I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for the opportunity to chair an early years healthy development review on behalf of the Government. He knows only too well how awful the lockdown has been for new parents and their families, in addition to the existing pressures under which new parents find themselves. Can he assure me that the recommendations of this important review will form a core part of his ambition to build back better and make sure that every baby gets the best start in life?
Context
The lockdown has been particularly difficult for new parents and their families, adding to existing pressures. There is a need to support early childhood development.
Boris Johnson
For many years now I have been listening to my right hon. Friend making her points with the passion and knowledge that she does, and I know she is right. I look forward very much to her review, and to her submitting her findings, and I look forward to working together with her to achieve the change that we want for early years children.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to specific recommendations from the review but expressed support for the process.
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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Does the Minister find it extraordinary that the Welsh Labour Government are looking at spending £122 million on new politicians and £33 million on a blanket 20 mph speed limit, while reducing funding for the NHS?
Context
The Welsh Labour Government facing budget cuts for the NHS while spending on other initiatives.
James Davies
The Labour Welsh Government are prioritising spending on more politicians and an unpopular 20 mph speed limit, leading to less funding for NHS and education. They should invest in important capital projects such as the Royal Alexandra Hospital.
Session: Cross-border Healthcare Welsh Government Policy
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Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the amazing Hope Centre in Northampton, which for 50 years has been turning the lives around of people who have been homeless, getting them into a home of their own and into a secure job. Will the Minister join me in congratulating all the staff and volunteers at that amazing charity?
Context
The Hope Centre in Northampton is celebrating its 50th anniversary for turning the lives around of homeless individuals and helping them into secure jobs.
Felicity Buchan
I am delighted to congratulate the staff and volunteers at the Hope Centre on 50 amazing years of supporting venerable people in Northampton. That work is critical in meeting the Government's commitment to reduce homelessness and to end rough sleeping for good, which is backed by a Government investment of £2 billion over three years.
Session: Topical Questions
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What can my right hon. and learned Friend tell them about how soon the use of hotels for illegal migrants will end?
Context
A hotel in the questioner's constituency is accommodating illegal migrants, raising concerns about cost and access to services for local residents.
Suella Braverman
It is totally unacceptable that too many towns and cities around the country now house the 45,000 asylum seekers who are in hotels, costing the British taxpayer £6 million a day. We are standing up large sites and vessels around the country and maximising the use of hotels to open fewer.
Session: Irregular Migration Channel Crossings
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What steps her Department is taking to reduce the number of small boats transporting irregular migrants across the English channel?
Context
The number of small boats transporting irregular migrants across the Channel has significantly increased, causing concern among MPs and constituents.
Suella Braverman
We remain determined to stop the boats and deter people from making these dangerous journeys to the UK, and we are making progress. The number of arrivals is 20% down, the legacy backlog has nearly halved, and the number of Albanian arrivals has fallen by 90% this year.
Session: Irregular Migration Channel Crossings
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Do Ministers agree that delegates should be promoting Britain's interests, not acting against them? The PPA is a parliamentary body independent of Government but values its role in supporting a mature relationship with the EU.
Context
The Parliamentary Partnership Assembly was set up under the trade and co-operation agreement with the EU to promote Britain's interests overseas.
Kevin Hollinrake
The Government value the work of the Parliamentary Partnership Assembly and support its role. The right hon. Friend is correct that we should look forward, not backwards.
Session: Topical Questions
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What consideration has been given to creating an investment zone that covers the whole of Northern Ireland to bring much needed investment to that part of the United Kingdom? I am proposing this idea for its potential impact on attracting investors and boosting economic growth in the region.
Context
There is a proposal to create an investment zone that covers the whole of Northern Ireland to bring much-needed investment.
Kemi Badenoch
It is a very interesting idea. Investment zone policy is owned by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, so I will raise it with the Secretary of State there and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. Officials from the UK Government and the Northern Ireland civil service continue to work closely to explore developing investment zone policy in the country.
Session: International Investment in Northern Ireland
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What steps are being taken with Cabinet colleagues to help increase international investment in Northern Ireland? I am concerned about the economic growth and development opportunities for Northern Ireland through increased foreign direct investment.
Context
Northern Ireland seeks increased international investment to boost its economy.
Kemi Badenoch
Just yesterday I was in Belfast where my Department delivered the Northern Ireland investment summit in partnership with the Northern Ireland Office and Invest Northern Ireland. Five hundred delegates, including investors from 24 countries around the world, attended to see at first hand the unique opportunities for inward investment in Northern Ireland across a range of sectors, including life sciences and advanced manufacturing.
Session: International Investment in Northern Ireland
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What conversations has the Minister had across government to make sure that the sentencing for those convicted of dangerous cycling is equalised with the sentencing guidelines for those convicted of dangerous driving?
Context
Current laws for cyclists are old and it can be difficult to successfully prosecute offences related to dangerous cycling.
Edward Argar
The safety of our roads is a key objective for the Government, and protecting all road users is a priority. Department for Transport colleagues are considering bringing forward legislation to introduce new offences concerning dangerous cycling to tackle those rare instances where victims have been killed or seriously injured by irresponsible cycling behaviour.
Session: Topical Questions
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I congratulate my hon. Friend for all her work tackling bullying. So many constituents write to me about the problems their children are experiencing. How are the behaviour hubs making a difference in schools and tackling the bullying that is so prevalent, particularly as a result of online harms and social media, which are all too frequent?
Context
The question follows up on the initial query about steps taken to tackle bullying, focusing specifically on how behaviour hubs are making a difference and tackling online harms.
Claire Coutinho
We are confident that the behaviour hubs programme is helping schools to create calm, understanding and positive environments by spreading best practice. The behaviour hubs programme is being evaluated and impact assessed. We will publish an interim report in 2024.
Session: Bullying in Schools
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What recent steps has the Department taken to tackle bullying in schools? I am concerned about the impact of bullying on children's mental health and safety.
Context
The question arises from the concern over bullying incidents in schools and the need for effective measures to address this issue.
Claire Coutinho
All children should have access to a calm, safe and supportive school environment. In addition to school behaviours policies that must include measures to prevent bullying, we have provided more than £3 million in funding between August 2021 and March 2024 to five anti-bullying organisations supporting schools in tackling bullying.
Session: Bullying in Schools
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Having helped Ukrainian guests to get childcare support and then into work, I was delighted when my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State changed the rules so that childcare support is available up front. He will be aware that most nurseries require a term's fees in advance, so what more can be done to ensure that sometimes unstable and infrequent work is not further hampered by uncertainty about whether childcare will be available?
Context
Rules changed to make childcare support available up front.
Mims Davies
This Government are focused on making sure that work pays for all parents. My right hon. Friend will be pleased to know that I will take up the specific concern about nursery charging models and ensure that the matter is raised with the Department for Education.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituents have concerns over a possible ban on e-collars. In Wales, where these devices are prohibited, there has been an increase in sheep attacks, leading to the use of more harmful electric fences. Will my right hon. Friend consider some form of licensing or regulation for their usage instead?
Context
Dog-loving constituents are concerned about a potential ban on e-collars, citing increased sheep attacks and harmful electric fences in Wales where such devices are banned.
Trudy Harrison
The use of collars emitting spray or vibration will be allowed, and invisible fence containment systems are also excluded from this proposal. I can arrange for my right hon. Friend to meet with the relevant authority in another place as this matter has yet to be debated in the Lords.
Session: Topical Questions
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What measures can be taken to prevent further punishment of victims like the constituent's husband who are already defrauded?
Context
A constituent and his colleagues, who were professional footballers, lost their life savings to a fraudulent scam and faced further financial pressures from Government Departments.
Michael Tomlinson
The CPS has recovered assets worth £480 million through confiscation orders, of which £105 million has been returned to victims of crime by way of compensation. The Attorney General is familiar with the case details and appreciates the importance of addressing this matter.
Session: Serious Fraud Office Reviews
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What progress has been made on implementing the 29 recommendations made in the reviews of the Serious Fraud Office?
Context
The question arises from reviews conducted by Sir David Calvert-Smith and Brian Altman KC.
Michael Tomlinson
Yesterday, the Attorney General laid before the House a written ministerial statement outlining the progress made on the delivery of the recommendations made by Sir David, which demonstrated significant progress in implementing all 29 recommendations.
Session: Serious Fraud Office Reviews
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I congratulate the Treasury team on the excellent new policy of providing much more childcare support to families. Will my right hon. Friend persuade the Chancellor to meet me and a small group of colleagues to talk about the policy in the round and about how we can give more support to all families, providing more flexibility where informal childcare is provided—for example, by grandparents—and ensuring that families who want to look after their children at home are not, in effect, left out and left in poverty as a result of the decisions they make for their family?
Context
The question arises from the need to further discuss and develop policies providing more childcare support for families.
John Glen
I thank my right hon. Friend for her question, and I welcomed the chance to discuss this matter at length with her recently. The Chancellor has indicated that he would be happy to meet her, and I would also be happy to meet her again.
Session: Tax-free Childcare
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Is my hon. Friend aware that the 75 local authority areas in England taking part in the Government's family hub and best start for life programme are required to work with not just the public sector, but charities, faith groups and volunteers, to roll out the support services to give every baby the best start for life? Can he tell us what connections there are between the Church and those local authority areas to make that a reality?
Context
The Government's family hub and best start for life programme requires cooperation between local authorities, charities, faith groups, volunteers, and other sectors to deliver support services. The Church of England is expected to play a crucial role in this collaborative effort.
Andrew Selous
I am delighted to hear what my right hon. Friend says. I can tell her that the Church works commission chaired by the Bishop of Durham includes 15 major denominations and is working very closely with the National Centre for Family Hubs. Churches are already involved in delivering 18 out of the 24 areas for delivery, and the key to that is good local authority joint working. I am pleased to say that there is lots of momentum—long may that continue.
Session: Best Start for Life Policy Paper
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What steps is the Church of England taking to help support the roll-out of (a) family hubs and (b) the other policies in the Department of Health and Social Care policy paper entitled “Best start for life: a vision for the 1,001 critical days”, published on 25 March 2021?
Context
The Church of England is expected to play a significant role in supporting the roll-out of family hubs and other policies outlined in the Department of Health and Social Care policy paper entitled “Best start for life: a vision for the 1,001 critical days”. This document was published on 25 March 2021.
Andrew Selous
My right hon. Friend is a tireless campaigner for families and young children. The Church strongly supports family hubs and their further expansion. The Church is already supporting many of the “Best start for life” recommendations through our messy church and toddler groups, and the Archbishops' commission on families and households will report next month.
Session: Best Start for Life Policy Paper
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My constituents in South Northamptonshire remain angry and disillusioned about not just the way that their reasonable requests for proper mitigation and compensation are ignored and delayed by HS2, but the huge amount of waste they see daily. I would like the Minister to expand on how, with costs spiralling out of control, he will deliver good value for taxpayers' money.
Context
Constituents of South Northamptonshire are concerned about HS2's impact, including delays in mitigation and compensation requests. Costs have also been rising significantly.
Huw Merriman
I have every sympathy with the constituents of my right hon. Friend and others on the line of route. There is disruption, but we seek to minimise and mitigate it. I am aware of the area she represents as my family live close by. I have a meeting with her and officials next week to go through cases she has. I would just say that HS2 will really deliver for this country: 30,000 people employed; 2,500 businesses supporting HS2; 97% of that supply chain in the UK. There are impacts, but there will also be great delivery once the line is built.
Session: HS2 Preventing Fraud
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What steps the Government are taking to prevent fraud associated with HS2; and if he will make a statement.
Context
HS2 construction raises concerns about potential fraud and misuse of funds, affecting taxpayer interests.
Huw Merriman
The Department requires HS2 Ltd to adopt and implement policies and practices to guard against fraud. HS2 Ltd has an experienced counter-fraud team to protect taxpayer funds against the threats of fraud, bribery, corruption and other malpractice. HS2 Ltd further works with the Department, the Public Sector Fraud Authority, law enforcement and supply chain partners to ensure that Government counter-fraud standards are met or exceeded.
Session: HS2 Preventing Fraud
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There is overwhelming evidence that the building blocks for lifelong emotional and physical wellbeing are laid down during the first 1,001 days of human life. Does my right hon. Friend agree that supporting that is the best piece of levelling up we could possibly do? What more can he do to ensure that family hubs and joined-up start for life services are rolled out right across England as soon as possible?
Context
There is evidence that early childhood support significantly impacts lifelong wellbeing.
Michael Gove
My right hon. Friend is absolutely right, and her impassioned advocacy of better support for children and families in the first 1,001 days of a child's life has helped to shape Government policy. The wider roll-out of family hubs, support for children's services and, in particular, targeted intervention when children are at risk of abuse or neglect will, when taken together, help to ensure that we level up opportunities across this country. I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for all her work on this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that being a force for good in the world for free trade is an absolutely honourable goal and one that the UK should promote at every opportunity?
Context
The questioner supports the UK's role in promoting free trade internationally.
Penny Mordaunt
My right hon. Friend is absolutely right that the UK, a G7 nation, leaving the regulatory orbit of the EU is an international event. It gives us a huge opportunity, alongside nations like the United States, to set out our view of the world and of capitalism and to fight for the things we believe in.
Session: Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership
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Will the Secretary of State confirm clearly, for the record, that the Government will not make changes to the Human Rights Act without legislative consent from the devolved institutions?
Context
There is concern about the Government making changes to the Human Rights Act without legislative consent from the devolved institutions.
Dominic Raab
The hon. Gentleman will know, because I have said it in the House on a number of occasions, that it would be inappropriate to consider the application of the Sewel convention until we have the text of the Bill of Rights, but he will not have to wait too much longer for that.
Session: Topical Questions
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Shared parental leave was a brilliant idea, introduced by a Conservative Government, but there is one type of new parent who receives almost no support: the kinship carer of a baby. What can my hon. Friend do to ensure equality for all types of parenting?
Context
Shared parental leave was introduced by a Conservative Government, but kinship carers of babies receive almost no support.
Kemi Badenoch
The Government value the vital role that kinship carers play. Eligible kinship carers who adopt are entitled to adoption leave and pay, and employed kinship carers may also be eligible for other leave entitlements to balance work with caring, including emergency leave, the right to request flexible working, and unpaid parental leave.
Session: Topical Questions
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The HS2 Minister was kind enough to visit my constituency to see for himself the damage being caused by the preparation alone for this train project. He will be aware that ever more areas of South Northamptonshire are now being ruined and dug up just in preparation for the line. What steps can he take to make sure that they do not become a place for fly-tipping, which we are seeing all too frequently?
Context
The HS2 Minister visited the constituency to see damage caused by preparations for the train project. Fly-tipping is becoming a frequent issue.
Andrew Stephenson
HS2 Ltd takes its responsibilities to secure and maintain land along the line of route extremely seriously. I thank my right hon. Friend for taking the time to show me some of the specific problem sites when I visited her constituency. Where fly-tipping or littering occurs, HS2 Ltd must act to address it as soon as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his commitment to making sure that every baby gets the best start to life. Does he agree that by creating more of a mixed-skill workforce we will be able to provide the continuity of care that every family wants when they have a new baby?
Context
Following up on the initial question about apprenticeships, the MP explores how creating a diverse skill set in early years staff could improve continuity of care.
Alex Burghart
I pay tribute to my right hon. Friend's expertise in this area, and I agree with her. We are investing £153 million in training early years staff to support learning and development, and £300 million to transform Start4Life services, including funding for trials of an innovative workforce.
Session: Apprenticeships Early Years Workforce
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What plans does he have to develop apprenticeship routes for the early years workforce?
Context
The question arises from a discussion about developing career pathways in early childhood education.
Alex Burghart
My Department has engaged with early years employers to design three high-quality apprenticeships: early years educator, practitioner and lead practitioner. Since 2018-19, there have been more than 26,000 starts on early years apprenticeships. Students can also study a T-level, a new gold-standard technical qualification in education and childcare.
Session: Apprenticeships Early Years Workforce
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that every UK citizen and resident should have access to a similar level of healthcare? Will he guarantee that nothing in the negotiations on the Northern Ireland protocol will put at risk access to medicines and covid vaccines for residents and citizens of Northern Ireland?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of Northern Ireland protocol negotiations on access to medicines and vaccines.
Brandon Lewis
My right hon. Friend is absolutely right. It is because of our UK-wide NHS that everyone in our country can expect to receive quality health services, regardless of where they live. Currently, because of unnecessary regulatory and trade barriers in the UK internal market, we have seen difficulty in safeguarding medicine supplies. Unlike the EU, which some in this House will remember attempted to trigger article 16 earlier this year, with the intent of putting a hard border for vaccines on the island of Ireland between Northern Ireland and Ireland, this Government would never do anything that jeopardises access to medicines or covid vaccines for the residents of Northern Ireland.
Session: Northern Ireland’s Place in the UK
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I am so grateful to my right hon. Friend and to our brilliant new children's Minister, my hon. Friend the Member for Colchester (Will Quince), for their commitment to giving every baby the best start in life. Does my right hon. Friend agree that absolutely key to the success of family hubs is that, unlike under the old Sure Start scheme, every family can have midwifery visits, health visits, advice for mental health and breast-feeding support and that that is what makes a real difference to every new family?
Context
The questioner is grateful for the government's commitment to family hubs and the start for life programme. She asks about the importance of midwifery visits, health visits, advice for mental health, and breast-feeding support being available to all families.
Will Quince
I thank my right hon. Friend for her question. The Budget announcement rightly demonstrates our commitment to family hubs and start for life. Family hubs bring together services for children of all ages with a great start for life offer at their very core. I very much look forward to working with her to ensure that they deliver for parents, carers and, importantly, babies.
Session: Topical Questions
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I pay tribute to Harry's mum, Charlotte, and Harry's dad, Tim, for their incredible courage. They have already been striving for that for more than two years. Does my right hon. Friend agree that we have to do everything possible with our great allies around the world to ensure mutual respect, and that abiding by the rule of law and achieving justice in a harrowing situation such as this is vital to those relationships?
Context
The family of Harry Dunn has been striving for justice for over two years, highlighting the need for mutual respect and adherence to the rule of law in international relations.
Elizabeth Truss
I praise my right hon. Friend for the huge support that she has given to the family of Harry Dunn. I had the opportunity to speak with them; of course, the situation they find themselves in is absolutely terrible. I am determined that we should deliver justice for Harry and his family, and I am pushing the United States.
Session: Harry Dunn
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I am concerned about the death of Harry Dunn. If she will hold discussions with her US counterpart on this case.
Context
The death of Harry Dunn in a car accident involving a US service member has sparked discussions about justice for the family and diplomatic relations with the United States.
Elizabeth Truss
We have the deepest sympathy for Harry's family. I have spoken to them about the case. I raised the case with Secretary Blinken, and we also raised it with President Biden when we were over in the United States. I am very clear that justice needs to be delivered for Harry and his family.
Session: Harry Dunn
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What steps he is taking to ensure that all HS2 compensation payments are made promptly. My right hon. Friend has done a great job since taking over as HS2 Minister, but I am sure he will agree that there is so much evidence of appalling behaviour from HS2 in the way that it is treating individual households and businesses and its slowness to compensate even the outgoing legal costs of those who are simply trying to protect their own homes and businesses. What can he do to improve the compassion, quite frankly, as well as the efficiency of HS2?
Context
Concerns about delays and poor treatment of individuals and businesses affected by HS2.
Andrew Stephenson
May I start by congratulating my right hon. Friend on her recognition in the birthday honours list? My HS2 land and property review, published in November 2020, set out a number of measures to speed up the payment of compensation, and we are making rapid progress in implementing the recommendations of that review.
Session: HS2 Compensation Payments
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What steps he is taking to ensure that all HS2 compensation payments are made promptly. My hon. Friend has done a great job since taking over as HS2 Minister, but I am sure he will agree that there is so much evidence of appalling behaviour from HS2 in the way that it is treating individual households and businesses and its slowness to compensate even the outgoing legal costs of those who are simply trying to protect their own homes and businesses. What can he do to improve the compassion, quite frankly, as well as the efficiency of HS2?
Context
Compensation delays and poor treatment of affected individuals and businesses due to HS2.
Andrew Stephenson
My right hon. Friend makes a powerful case. HS2 Ltd can and must treat those affected by HS2 with consideration and respect. To that end, I am pleased to say that the root-and-branch review of land and property cases that I commissioned is now starting to bear fruit. I hold HS2 Ltd to direct account in a fortnightly review of the most complex cases, and I pay tribute to my right hon. Friend for drawing my attention to several pressing constituency cases in her area.
Session: HS2 Compensation Payments
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Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware of the early years healthy development review? Can he tell me what support is available to new babies and their mothers who are in the prison system?
Context
Early years healthy development review is ongoing, focusing on support for new babies and their mothers within the prison system.
Robert Buckland
Support includes multidisciplinary teams, compassionate leave policies, individual care plans, and a review to ensure policy is effective. The female offender strategy aims to understand why women end up in custody and how to improve this situation.
Session: Topical Questions
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My right hon. and learned Friend will be aware that up to 30% of domestic violence starts during pregnancy. Can he tell me what the CPS is doing to protect vulnerable babies from this toxic environment?
Context
Up to 30% of domestic violence cases begin during pregnancy, leading to concerns about the impact on unborn children.
Michael Ellis
The Government are working on a new Domestic Abuse Bill and a wider action plan to protect victims and their children. NHS staff now receive mandatory safeguarding training, including focus on domestic abuse. Multi-agency partnership work is strengthened through 'Working Together to Safeguard Children'.
Session: Covid-19 Lockdown Domestic Abuse Prosecutions
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Does my right hon Friend agree that the best time to invest in the emotional lifelong capacity of a human being that leads to future economic productivity is in the critical period between conception and the age of two? The Prime Minister's levelling-up agenda will be best served by ensuring that every single baby across our United Kingdom gets the best start in life.
Context
The questioner highlights the importance of early childhood intervention for long-term economic productivity.
Kemi Badenoch
I assure my right hon Friend that I agree with her. The Government remain committed to improving health outcomes during the first 1001 days and early childhood. At the spending review, we confirmed an additional £25.8 million to increase the value of healthy start vouchers to £4.25, in line with the recommendation of the national food strategy, to help combat child food poverty and to give children the best start in life.
Session: Topical Questions
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My right hon. Friend will be aware that more than half a million new babies were born during the first lockdown. What assessment has she made for the many women who have had to struggle with juggling childcare responsibilities with going back to work during this very difficult year?
Context
More than half a million new babies were born during the first lockdown. Many women faced significant challenges balancing childcare with returning to work.
Elizabeth Truss
First, I congratulate my right hon. Friend on her important work leading the early years healthy development review. I completely agree that we need to ensure that people are protected during the lockdown and that they are helped, as we recover from covid, to find better childcare options and better flexible working options. I am working closely with the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to achieve that.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does she agree that the amazing work in the early years sector to deliver online and digital services must not be lost? When we return to face-to-face services, we also need to capture all the amazing learning on digital support for new families. The hon. Friend is well aware of the desire of new families to return to face-to-face services as soon as possible.
Context
The MP acknowledges the desire of new families to return to face-to-face healthcare services while recognising the importance of retaining digital learning from the pandemic.
Nadine Dorries
Agrees with using digital technologies which enhanced various areas including mental health and young families. Emphasises the importance of continuing to embrace technology in healthcare delivery without losing this moment.
Session: Covid-19 Autumn 2020 Lockdown Newborn Babies
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I have written to my right hon. Friend recommending covid-safe sleeping pod-style accommodation for rough sleepers this winter. Despite the Government's efforts, some will still be on our streets. Will he tell me what steps are being put in place to ensure their safety and avoid night shelters which many find terrifying?
Context
The right hon. Friend wrote to the Minister about safe sleeping pod-style accommodation for rough sleepers during winter.
Christopher Pincher
The Government are providing a £10 million cold weather fund to all local authorities, along with a new £15 million protect programme and a £2 million transformation fund. These initiatives aim to provide self-contained accommodation, innovative shelter options, and support for faith and community centres.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Vaping And Smoking Among Youth
11 January 2024
Main Concerns
['The Minister is concerned about the high number of children vaping and smoking. She noted that in the UK, smoking kills around 80,000 people annually, causing one in four cancer deaths and costing £17 billion a year in ill health and demands on NHS and social care. The Minister highlighted that the number of children using vapes has tripled, with an estimated one in five children having used a vape.']
Specific Asks
['The Minister aims to introduce legislation through the tobacco and vapes Bill to save lives by ensuring children turning 15 this year or younger will never be legally sold tobacco products. She also seeks significant new funding and support for existing smokers to quit, and action to enforce rules on vaping.']
Northampton Gateway Rail Freight Interchange: Development Consent Order Waiver
17 October 2023
Responding: Huw Merriman
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the impact of insensitive overdevelopment in my constituency, particularly the strategic rail freight interchange (SRFI) project. Local knowledge is often overlooked for national interest, and this SRFI has led to an increase in heavy goods vehicle traffic congestion with no benefit to residents. The development was unpopular among constituents, who objected at the planning stage due to concerns about the promised rail link not being feasible. The MP is concerned about the lack of rail connections to strategic rail freight interchanges, particularly highlighting a case where Network Rail did not plan for a connection between the West Coast Main Line and a terminal. The debate discusses the need for new guidelines in place to consider existing SRFI locations and mitigate traffic abstraction from nearby facilities.']
Specific Asks
['Can the Minister tell me what the Government can do to ensure that, where developers apply for nationally significant infrastructure projects, the planning inspector looks at the local need and the local infrastructure, as well as the national interest?']
Improving Driver Safety
11 January 2023
Responding: Richard Holden
Main Concerns
["Andrea Leadsom highlighted the tragic impact of car accidents on young drivers and passengers. She mentioned that while young drivers account for only 7% of full driving licence holders, they were involved in 23% of fatal and serious collisions in the UK in 2019. The AA survey showed that road deaths are a significant risk to teenagers, accounting for 17% of deaths among five to 19-year-olds. Leadsom also cited evidence from Radd Seiger's campaign showing that young drivers are more likely to be involved in collisions when carrying similar-aged passengers, with 25% of casualties among those aged 17 to 24 being passengers."]
Specific Asks
['Leadsom called for new arrangements for young people as they learn to drive and become used to busy roads. She recommended a minimum learning period of 50 hours or six months before taking the practical driving test, and a waiting period of up to a year before carrying other young passengers. Additionally, she suggested restricting driving between midnight and 4 am due to increased collision risks during these times.']
Infant Mental Health Awareness Week — [Mrs Sheryll Murray in the Chair]
16 June 2022
Responding: Gillian Keegan
Main Concerns
['Human beings are the most underdeveloped creatures on earth at birth, with undeveloped brains and responses. From conception to two years old, a secure and loving relationship between a baby and their carer is crucial for laying down lifelong physical and emotional health building blocks. Stress during pregnancy can lead to high levels of cortisol in the foetus, impacting its development. Poor mental health among parents leads to poorer outcomes for babies and young children, with socioeconomically deprived areas facing higher levels of poor maternal mental health.']
Specific Asks
["The Government should continue to fund the 'Best Start for Life' vision and ensure that every baby gets the best start in life through a joined-up set of services, family hubs, trusted digital support, a modern workforce, understanding of early intervention impact, data collection and evaluation, and local and national leadership."]
Kinship Care for Babies
22 February 2022
Responding: Will Quince
Main Concerns
['Ms Leadsom highlighted the challenges faced by kinship carers in her constituency, particularly when it comes to receiving adequate support and financial assistance. She cited a case of a constituent who had to take unpaid leave from his employment to care for his niece as an example of the difficulties faced by kinship carers. Additionally, she mentioned that 200,000 children are in kinship care across the UK, with over 40,000 aged nought to four. She emphasized the importance of the early years for child development and noted that 96% of kinship carers expect their children to live with them permanently.']
Specific Asks
["Ms Leadsom asked the government to consider flexible work as standard and review employment practices to better support families involved in kinship care. She also highlighted her constituent's employer considering a review of its policies following his story, and she hoped for similar actions from other employers across the UK."]
Healthcare Support Services: Conception to Age Two
15 December 2020
Responding: Jo Churchill
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the impact of a difficult year on the youngest and most vulnerable in society, particularly during the period from conception to age two. She cites statistics showing that up to one in seven women experience post-natal depression after having a baby. The review has gathered over 3,500 responses from parents and carers through questionnaires and virtual meetings, highlighting issues such as isolation, limited face time with health visitors, and an increase in cases of domestic violence during the lockdown period.']
Specific Asks
['The MP urges the Minister to consider allowing new families to bubble with at least two other supporting family members or individuals if they are a lone parent. She also encourages the Minister to ensure that health visitors and early years health services remain available and accessible face-to-face for everyone as the vaccine is rolled out.']
Smoking Reduction and Tobacco Control Bill - Clause 1
16 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the Bill, stating its purpose is to prevent future generations from starting smoking. Argues that the only product that kills two thirds of its long-term users if consumed as intended is tobacco...
Heart and Circulatory Diseases: Premature Deaths
22 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP opened the debate by sharing his personal experience of having a heart attack at age 47, emphasising the importance of awareness and early identification. He highlighted statistics showing that...
Backbench Business
08 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
It has been 42 years since the death of Terrence Higgins, marking significant progress in HIV testing and treatment. Early diagnosis is essential for reducing virus spread, improving health outcomes, ...
Pharmacy First
31 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
NHS Dentistry
09 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The NHS dentistry in England is at its most perilous point, with eight in 10 dentists no longer taking on new patients. Five million patients failed to get an appointment in the past two years. Tooth ...
Backbench Business
19 October 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Clarke honours the women who shared their experiences of birth trauma and highlights her personal experience. She calls for better post-natal care, perinatal mental health services availability, manda...
High Speed 2
18 September 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Petroleum Licensing (Exploration and Production) (Seaward and Landward Areas) Regulations 2004
05 September 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Established the context for the debate, setting rules for contributions and time management.
Privileges Committee Special Report
10 July 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Childcare Reform Package
28 June 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
7
PMQs Asked
38
Ministerial Questions Asked
95
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
Westminster Hall Debates Led
12
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
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
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+184% above average
This MP:
38
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1855% above average
This MP:
95
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+27% above average
This MP:
12
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
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 Andrea Leadsom's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.