Andrew Griffith
MP for Arundel and South Downs
Con
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Once again, small businesses across this country will see that the Deputy Prime Minister did not answer the question. The burden to businesses of the Government’s Bill is £1 billion a year. Will the Deputy Prime Minister admit what Members behind him are thinking: that it is not the Prime Minister going to China that is the problem; it is the fear that he might come back?
Context
The MP references the Deputy Prime Minister not answering questions about the Government’s Bill, which has caused distress for businesses and concerns over job security.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr David Lammy)
Let us face it, the shadow Business Secretary is not going to get this gig again. I have set out our position very clearly. This was the week when the Leader of the Opposition told “Desert Island Discs” that Britain needs to learn to queue again, and Tory MPs are lining up outside the office of the Member for Clacton while they squabble about the damage that they did to our country.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister avoided addressing the concerns raised by small businesses and instead focused on criticizing his opposition.
Changing Subject
Personal Attack
Session: PMQs
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The thing that the Deputy Prime Minister did not want to say is that every Labour Government leave office with unemployment higher than when they arrived. There is a reason for that: they do not understand what it takes to be an employer. They do not understand business. The Government are strangling business with their red tape, and they are about to make things infinitely worse. Will the Deputy Prime Minister tell us his Government’s own estimate of the cost to business of the unemployment Act?
Context
Griffith questions the cost to businesses of Labour's unemployment Act, suggesting it is too high.
The Deputy Prime Minister
I will take no lectures from the hon. Member on business. My father was run out of business under the Thatcher Government—I know what it is like to grow up under a Tory Government. While we are talking about it, 26 Tory MPs and counting have already defected to Reform. Now they are all counting down, because today is 100 days until the Tory transfer window slams shut. It is going to be the longest and most disloyal transfer saga since Sol Campbell left Spurs, and the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage)—I do not know where he is—has signed three right wingers in the past fortnight.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not provide an estimate of the cost to businesses under Labour's unemployment Act and instead criticised former Tory MPs who have defected.
Attack
Session: PMQs
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Mr Speaker, you can feel the Deputy Prime Minister’s frustration. The Prime Minister is away, the Business Secretary is away, and here he is—left-behind Lammy, the designated survivor, having to defend the indefensible. It is very clear that he does not know the answer, so let me tell him. The cost will be up by £3,600 a year. Under Labour, businesses cannot afford to hire, and one in six young people cannot find a job. This Government are blocking people who just want to get on in life—ambitious people like Andy from Manchester, having his dreams crushed by Labour. Could the Deputy Prime Minister explain why unemployment has gone up almost every month that the Government have been in office?
Context
Griffith criticises the Government for increasing unemployment, stating that it has gone up almost every month under their watch.
The Deputy Prime Minister
The shadow Business Secretary should check his facts—500,000 more people are in work than a year ago under us. He is in no position to lecture anyone about U-turns, by the way; this man was Boris Johnson’s net zero business champion, and now he opposes the renewable investment that is creating jobs and opportunities right across the country.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not directly address the increase in unemployment but instead mentioned an overall increase in employment figures.
Deflection
Session: PMQs
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You do not make young people better off by putting them out of work. The Deputy Prime Minister’s MPs are already banned from pubs. Where next? Shops, restaurants, hair salons—that might not make a difference to him or to me, but it would for many of them. They should back our plan to scrap business rates, but they have not got the backbone to cut welfare to pay for it. It is not just business rates; under Labour, the cost of hiring is up. Can he tell the House how much more it costs to hire a 21-year-old under Labour?
Context
Andrew Griffith criticises the Labour plan for raising hiring costs, stating that it will make businesses unable to afford to hire young people.
The Deputy Prime Minister
The hon. Gentleman talks about young people. The Conservatives left a shameful legacy: one in eight young people were not earning or learning when they left office. We are investing a record amount in apprenticeships, which the Conservatives had on their knees. We are creating technical excellence colleges for our young people, and Alan Milburn is doing a review on young people who are currently out of work. By contrast, the Conservatives would freeze the minimum wage and oppose giving young people an increase.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not provide a specific cost figure for hiring a 21-year-old under Labour but instead highlighted the Conservative legacy regarding youth unemployment.
Deflection
Session: PMQs
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After the Chancellor’s U-turn yesterday, can the Deputy Prime Minister confirm that over 90% of retail, hospitality and leisure businesses will get nothing? The high streets are bleeding out, and the Chancellor is handing out a box of sticking plasters. A senior adviser to Andy Burnham said: “The Chancellor just wants a cheap headline”. Meanwhile, our high streets are being decimated.
Context
Following the Chancellor's U-turn on business rates, Andrew Griffith questions the adequacy of the support provided. He mentions that over 90% of retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses will get nothing.
The Deputy Prime Minister
The hon. Gentleman talks about business. We know what his plan for business is. This is the man who opposed the minimum wage and said that it was 'simply something that legislators pass to make themselves feel good.' Let me tell him that raising the minimum wage does not make us feel good; it changes lives. Labour is proud of how we are supporting small business. On small business, we are creating hospitality zones to cut red tape, creating greater licensing freedoms, which are very important, and tackling late payments. All of that is supporting business.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not confirm or deny whether over 90% of businesses will get no support but instead focused on criticising the opposition's stance on the minimum wage and provided examples of Labour policies to support small business.
Deflection
Session: PMQs
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West Sussex County Council recycles almost double the level of neighbouring Brighton and Hove City Council. Will my right hon. Friend join me in congratulating them?
Context
Praising West Sussex County Council for its high recycling rate.
Boris Johnson
Conservative-led councils keep council tax low, deliver better services like recycling; praised the council.
Session: PMQs
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Mr. Griffith enquires if the Government's plan to ensure access to superfast broadband is on schedule, particularly mentioning constituents of West Sussex with limited or no current broadband access.
Context
Griffith asks about the government's scheme to guarantee minimum broadband speeds and its readiness for launch.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Johnson affirms Griffith's concerns, confirms £5 billion funding has been allocated for superfast broadband rollout, assures legislation is on track, and promises Chancellor's assurances of adequate coverage for Arundel and South Downs.
Session: PMQs
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The Chancellor does not know the answer. On the Treasury's own statistics, it would take 38,000 average income tax payers to make up for the loss of Chris Rokos. That is a lot of breathing space paid for. It means higher taxes for everyone else, or lower public spending. We know what Labour will choose. The last Chancellor raised taxes on farmers, family businesses and jobs. Conservatives will reform welfare to cut taxes; Labour always puts them up. Which, if any, of his predecessor's damaging decisions will the Chancellor reverse?
Context
The MP highlighted that it would take 38,000 average income tax payers to replace the departing billionaire's tax contribution.
John Healey
The future of this country will be written in our growth rates, after 14 years in which we had low growth, high debt and a Budget that crashed confidence in the British economy. Under this Government, we have already seen a new way of generating growth in more places across the country. Members have seen the way that we will reform the centre of Whitehall, so that we cut through slow decision making, with public leadership and control made accountable to the people. I made announcements yesterday on the ways that we will go further to axe the thicket of administration, to back fast-growth firms, and to change the way that we generate investment across the country.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-08
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Thank you, Mr Speaker. First, let me pay tribute to my own predecessor, my right hon. Friend the Member for Central Devon (Sir Mel Stride), and let me welcome the Chancellor to his role. He is already responsible for the highest borrowing costs for 28 years. One in six of our young people are unemployed and yesterday we had the news that one of Britain's top taxpayers is leaving our country. Every time a billionaire leaves, our country becomes poorer. Chris Rokos is reported to have paid over £300 million in taxes last year. Could the Chancellor tell us how many average taxpayers it will take to replace him?
Context
The MP paid tribute to his predecessor and welcomed the new Chancellor. He noted high borrowing costs, unemployment among young people, and the departure of a top taxpayer.
John Healey
I welcome the new shadow Chancellor to his place and thank him for his words. I welcome him back to the Treasury brief—perhaps Members on the Government Benches will have more to say about that later. I echo his comments about the right hon. Member for Central Devon (Sir Mel Stride), who has played an important role in this House, including his cross-party work during the pandemic as Chair of the Treasury Committee. We thank him for that as he steps down from the Front Bench. The shadow Chancellor takes reports in the paper and tries to make serious points in this House. We will set out our plans at the Budget to give families and businesses a bit of breathing space, to back good growth in more places throughout this country, and to rebuild confidence in strong British fiscal discipline—something that was lost under the shadow Chancellor's Government.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-08
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Research by the British Retail Consortium found that over two thirds of part-time workers in the retail sector took the role because they needed flexibility around educational and caring commitments. The number of young people not in employment, education or training is over 1 million. Liberal Democrats repeatedly warned that Labour's jobs tax would hammer job opportunities for young people and that its business rates hikes would kill off opportunities on the high street, which gives so many young people their first job. As they implement the Employment Rights Act, which will introduce some welcome measures for employees, how will the Government ensure that this is not yet another burden that prevents businesses from being able to provide entry-level and flexible jobs?
Context
Research shows that many part-time workers in the retail sector choose their roles for flexibility around education and caring commitments, and there is concern about the impact of the Employment Rights Act on this.
Kate Dearden
I am glad that the Liberal Democrat spokesperson welcomes parts of the legislation, but I wish she would not repeat lines from the Conservatives, who broke our economy and destroyed our labour market. That is why the Act is so important: it will fix problems, particularly the problem of people being in insecure work, which does not grow our economy and will not provide the stability that we need. I thank the hon. Lady for mentioning flexibility. The problem occurs when flexibility is one-sided and workers bear all the financial risks. That is why, as part of our consultations, particularly on zero-hours contracts, we want to get flexibility and security right, so that we can rebalance them. We are working closely with employers, including in the retail sector, to understand how best to get that balance right, so that it benefits workers and businesses, too.
Session: Employment Rights Act 2025 2026-07-02
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Will he listen to car makers, adopt the Conservative policy of scrapping these rules and support our great British automotive industry?
Context
The British car manufacturing industry faces fines under the zero emission vehicle rules, impacting consumer choice, jobs, and firms. The government's stance on these rules is questioned.
Peter Kyle
We are a listening Government, tackling energy costs faced by the automotive sector with BICS. Regarding ZEV mandate: I am listening closely. We need to be creative in how we get to net zero targets while addressing these issues.
Session: Advanced Manufacturing 2026-07-02
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I hope he would agree... Could the Secretary of State, who is a good man, at least promise me that, if he gets to serve as Chancellor in a Government led by his friend, the right hon. Member for Ilford North (Wes Streeting), he will use that chance to change the Government's approach?
Context
The Tony Blair Institute said the UK must restore dynamism to its labour market, rather than imposing restrictions such as the Employment Rights Act 2025.
Peter Kyle
Dynamism is increasing in our economy, and that is why we have so much growth... It gets kids back into work, and does so sustainably.
Session: Topical Questions
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First, I congratulate the Government on securing the Gulf Co-operation Council deal... as a direct result of this Government's choices, one in six young people is looking for a job, but cannot find one. Sectors like retail and hospitality are shedding jobs by the thousands. Will the Secretary of State finally accept that, well-intentioned or otherwise, the Government have got it wrong?
Context
The Office for National Statistics reported that one in six young people is looking for a job but cannot find one. Sectors like retail and hospitality are shedding jobs by the thousands.
Peter Kyle
This issue faces most communities in our country, and we should have much more cross-party support on it. I recognise the issue... however, the Opposition must admit that, in the three years before they left office, youth unemployment went up by 250,000.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State forgets that I have not even been here for 14 years. Some days it feels like that, but I can assure him that it is not the case. There was no answer to that question, so let me try another. Does he agree that there is something pretty badly wrong with employment law in this country when Peter Mandelson, the friend of a convicted paedophile and leaker of classified Government documents, walks away with a £75,000 pay-off? The permanent secretary thinks that is good value for money. Will the Secretary of State review Labour's policy of uncapping employment tribunal payouts for the highest earners?
Context
The MP questions the current employment law in the context of a high-profile case involving Peter Mandelson and seeks a review of Labour's policy on uncapping employment tribunal payouts for high earners.
Peter Kyle
As is so often the case when we have these exchanges, the shadow Secretary of State spends a lot of his time slagging off his own record in office. The Conservatives had 14 years to reform tribunal rights—they did not even touch it. They had 14 years to update workers' rights and employment status in this country—they did not do it. The economy moved forward; they failed to move forward. Turning to the issue of Peter Mandelson, I start by recognising that there are victims at the heart of this debate and the issues surrounding it. Those victims are in my mind today as I answer this question, and they have been all the way through. We will make sure that those victims get the justice they deserve. When it comes to the issues surrounding Peter Mandelson, there are multiple inquiries under way. Thames Valley police is leading on a criminal inquiry, and I will leave it at that.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Government do not create jobs; business does. With unemployment rising, this is the last chance to ask the Secretary of State a question ahead of the start of April when a tsunami of business rate rises will hit. Shops and restaurants will see a 50% increase on average and the business rates of hotels will double. He and I both represent wonderful Sussex constituencies full of hospitality, high street and tourism businesses, but young people need those jobs. For their sake and for others, will he finally postpone his business rate rise?
Context
The MP is concerned about the upcoming business rate rises, especially in hospitality businesses, and their impact on employment.
Peter Kyle
I enjoy these exchanges with the shadow Secretary of State. I note that Reform's self-styled shadow Secretary of State—or, as I call him, the shadowy Secretary of State—is not in his place, despite being just next door in the Tea Room a few minutes ago. I think that speaks volumes. The shadow Secretary of State knows that the private sector has created 380,000 jobs under this Government. We will continue to grow the economy and the number of people in work, and make sure that people benefit from all the rights we are delivering, which are pro-business and pro-worker. He spent 14 years letting down Britain. Now he has spent 18 months talking it down.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Minister has just heard from across the House continuing pleas to support the hospitality industry. It is always a good day when the Government U-turn and provide more support for pubs, so we welcome that. However, unless the Minister can explain to us when a pub becomes a gastropub, when a gastropub becomes a restaurant, and when a restaurant with rooms becomes a hotel and descends down that wormhole, will she make representations to the Chancellor to extend the same measures for pubs that she U-turned on this week across the whole retail, hospitality and leisure sector? The truth of the matter is that 90% of that sector will not benefit from this week’s U-turn.
Context
The Minister had just heard pleas to support the hospitality industry, especially pubs.
Kate Dearden
Good morning to the shadow Secretary of State. I am sure he had a stiff drink after his performance at Prime Minister’s questions yesterday. All pubs and live music venues that meet the definition set out in the guidance qualify for the support, and he will be able to see that clearly online. We will be working with local authorities to ensure that the definition includes establishments open to wide sections of local communities. I have already discussed valuations for pubs, how we take turnover into account and how we will work closely with the wider sector on valuations going forward. This is a Government who are working closely with the sector and are committed to listening. That is being a responsible Government, and we are doing the right thing.
Session: Hospitality Sector
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Of course, it is not just Bracknell, and one day those on the Labour Benches will understand that there are no workers’ rights if people have no work. Youth unemployment is up significantly. That is a tragedy that everybody should be ashamed of, and it is going up on Labour’s watch. Small businesses, which provide so many jobs, are very worried about the administrative burden of trade union access. We are talking about the very smallest businesses—pubs, restaurants, garden centres and small catering businesses. They are the backbone of our communities. As the Minister tries to implement the Employment Rights Act, will she consider lifting the threshold for the trade union access agreements to a headcount of 250—that is recognised elsewhere in law as a threshold—which would protect our very smallest businesses from that administrative burden?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of trade union access agreements on small businesses, which are worried about increased administrative burdens.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Kate Dearden)
To hear the Conservative party try to lecture us across the Dispatch Box on trade union engagement, industrial relations and how we operate our economy is very interesting. The hon. Gentleman knows that I am working really closely with businesses of all sizes—small and large—and with our trade unions and partners, because that is the right thing to do. The Employment Rights Act is a significant piece of legislation. We want to get it right, but we also want to fundamentally change how we do things in this country. That is the right thing to do, and we are taking the responsible action to do so. We recognise that there are lots of changes, which is why are working in a staged way over the next two years to implement them, and we are doing so in partnership with businesses and trade unions. We want to work together to deliver this. It represents significant change for 18 million people across the country, and businesses are vital in delivering it. That is why we are working together to do so.
Session: Workers’ Rights Bracknell Forest
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The Liberal Democrats lost a vote in the House of Lords last night on the unemployment Bill because 144 of their own peers did not want anything to do with that Bill. Does the Minister agree British businesses would have an entirely fair case to dismiss Lib Dems?
Context
Lib Dems' stance on the Unemployment Bill was inconsistent, leading to its loss in the House of Lords due to peers not wanting anything to do with it.
Chris Bryant (Minister of State, Department for Business and Trade)
My hon. Member seems lost. Under Labour, average growth is 2.2% vs 1.5% under Tories, employment 75% vs 73.8%, inflation 1.8% vs 3.2%. We do not create a healthy and wealthy society ignoring workers' rights.
Session: Economic Growth
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Will the Secretary of State now put country before party, do the right thing by British business and accept those compromise amendments?
Context
The Employment Rights Bill faced five reasonable amendments in the other place, which received cross-party support to mitigate damage. The Office for Budget Responsibility is assessing the impact of the legislation.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Peter Kyle)
Again, the Conservatives had 14 years in which the economy was changing. They had the chance to tackle zero-hours contracts, and what did they do? Nothing. They had the chance to tackle fire and rehire, and they did nothing. They had the chance to tackle the challenges of being an app-based employee, and they chose to do nothing. We are acting to modernise the economy and the relationship out there between businesses and workers because that is what is needed. It is what workers and businesses need, and it is what this Government are delivering.
Session: Topical Questions
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In a grave and exceptionally rare step, five major business groups, including the Confederation of British Industry, Make UK, the Institute of Directors, and the Federation of Small Businesses, have all written to condemn the Employment Rights Bill, and their views are shared by UKHospitality and many others. They say that the Bill will damage growth and employment. I know that, and the Minister knows that. This Bill will hurt business. Every business tells me this, and they are telling him exactly the same. Does the Secretary of State think that is why so many of his Ministers are unable to name a single business that supports the Bill and his Government’s jobs tax?
Context
The MP mentions the condemnation by five major business groups, including CBI and FSB, regarding the negative impact of the Employment Rights Bill on business growth. They argue that many businesses believe this will harm employment.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
I wondered whether the shadow Secretary of State might finally use this set of questions to take the opportunity to apologise for helping to write the Liz Truss Budget, which drove interest rates up fourteen times and did more damage to business than any other single measure in recent times. We had to take difficult decisions to sort out the fiscal inheritance we got, and we recognised that to tackle the cost of living crisis that the Conservatives bequeathed us, we needed to ensure that there is more money in people’s pockets. The Employment Rights Bill will help to do just that.
Session: Hospitality Industry
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Over 1 million jobs in this country depend on trade with the United States, including thousands of jobs in our steel industry. The Secretary of State does not know when he is going to get a deal. Will he publish his red lines for that deal, his objectives and what he hopes to achieve from meetings next week?
Context
The US has announced steel and aluminium tariffs without any exemptions, affecting UK businesses that depend on trade with the United States.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Jonathan Reynolds)
On steel and aluminium tariffs, the US Administration’s position is that there are no exemptions for anybody—that is across the board. I think they recognise the very strong case that we have, but that is their position. No, I will not publish my negotiating red lines before a negotiation. Frankly, that is the worst advice I have ever heard in the House of Commons. The Conservative party fell out with the EU, would not deal with China and could not do a deal with India. It fell out with the United Arab Emirates and could not do a deal with the Gulf. It got nothing out of the US. It did deals with Australia and New Zealand, then disowned them. We will take no lessons from the Conservatives.
Session: Topical Questions
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In the week of Labour’s latest reset, how does the Minister reconcile imposing an additional £5 billion of costs on business—on the Government’s own figures—with growing the economy? What was it about the breakfast with the Prime Minister that saw bosses laying off more workers 24 hours later?
Context
The shadow Secretary of State questions the government's economic strategy, highlighting a contradiction between imposing additional costs on businesses and promoting economic growth.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Justin Madders)
We believe that a 0.4% increase in the overall pay bill, which is what we have estimated the Employment Rights Bill will mean for businesses, is actually a fantastic return for greater security at work, greater pay, better staff retention, increased productivity, making jobs more secure and family friendly, banning exploitative zero-hour contracts, supporting women in work in every stage of life, providing a genuine living wage, turning the page on industrial relations, and bringing an end to fire and rehire. This is a pro-business, pro-growth, pro-worker agenda from the Government, and we are determined to deliver it.
Session: Employment Costs
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Will the Secretary of State urge the Prime Minister to stop obsessing about going backwards into the EU and agree that a US trade deal would be the best gift for British business? Business confidence is at an all-time low.
Context
Business confidence is at an all-time low, with hiring collapsing and companies fleeing.
Jonathan Reynolds
The US is a major trading partner but so is the EU. The impact on agriculture and other key markets must be considered holistically.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State update the House on when he expects to conclude free trade deals with the Gulf, with India and with the US? The UK has recently joined a major trading bloc.
Context
The UK has joined the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership, including major trading partners such as Japan and Canada.
Jonathan Reynolds
The talks for the Gulf Co-operation Council deal are progressing well. Regarding the US deal, negotiations depend on the new President-elect's stance.
Session: Topical Questions
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Thanks to Whitehall Watch, we have a copy of the form. It is clear the Secretary of State failed to mention the conflicts of interest, as required by the ministerial code. In the words of the Prime Minister's favourite pop star, some would say he is “Guilty as Sin”. Will he refer himself to the adviser on standards, or do we have to wait for the Prime Minister to finish organising VIP motorcades and do it for him?
Context
The MP provides evidence of conflicts of interest not being mentioned as required by the ministerial code.
Peter Kyle
There we have it—a party that attacks civil servants and the world's greatest talent gravitating towards this party and this Government, to work for them. When he sees talent in Government, he libels it and saddles the taxpayer with the bill.
Session: Topical Questions
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Did the Secretary of State fully disclose to the Civil Service Commission the Labour links of one of the most senior civil service appointments, or the £66,000 donation he received?
Context
The MP questions whether the Secretary of State fully disclosed Labour links in a civil service appointment.
Peter Kyle
Every donation that was made to this party in opposition has been declared in the appropriate ways. I am proud to be part of a party that raises standards in public life rather than votes to lower them.
Session: Topical Questions
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Businesses and local government welcome the launch of the UK Infrastructure Bank. Does my right hon. Friend agree that this is precisely the sort of intervention we need to deliver net zero?
Context
Welcoming the launch of the UK Infrastructure Bank last week.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. The UK Infrastructure Bank, capitalised with £12 billion from the Government, will unlock £40 billion of investment into tackling both levelling up and our net zero ambitions.
Session: Topical Questions
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Ahead of English Wine Week next week, would the Minister give me his personal assurance that he will do everything in his power to ensure that our embassies and our high commissions around the world do all they can to promote and showcase this growing and successful English product?
Context
English Wine Week is approaching, prompting the questioner to seek assurances that embassies and high commissions will promote English wine.
Nigel Adams
I could not agree more, and I know my hon. Friend and I do our best to support this fantastic industry. The quality of our sparkling wines in particular are superb, not least those from north Yorkshire vineyards, including the Yorkshire Heart vineyard in Nun Monkton and the Dunesforde vineyard in Upper Dunsforth. There should be no excuse for our embassies, high commissions, and consulates not stocking British projects, including our wines. I am sure all our ambassadors and high commissioners are watching, so I would ask them to make sure that their cellars are stocked up with British produce, including our fantastic British wines.
Session: Overseas Commercial Interests
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What diplomatic steps are being taken to advance the commercial interests of the UK overseas, given that the Prime Minister has announced a free trade agreement with Australia?
Context
The question arises in the context of the Prime Minister announcing a free trade agreement with Australia which is expected to benefit British businesses.
Nigel Adams
My hon. Friend asks a very timely question, as the Prime Minister has today announced a free trade agreement with Australia, which will bring fantastic opportunities for British businesses from all over the United Kingdom. The FCDO has co-ordinated the transition of 150 key international agreements in which the UK previously participated as a member of the EU, including supporting the Department for International Trade to agree bilateral trade agreements with 67 non-EU countries, plus the European Union.
Session: Overseas Commercial Interests
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I thank my right hon. Friend for his answer. Does he agree that the UK is exceptionally well positioned to prosper from the initiatives he referred to, and that this is another example of the Government's unleashing Britain's potential?
Context
The MP believes the UK is well positioned to lead in green initiatives.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is absolutely right—our 10-point plan can create hundreds of thousands of jobs up and down the country. He is also right that we can lead the world in this journey. We have been one of the fastest countries to decarbonise over the past few years and are one of the leading countries not only in phasing out coal and internal combustion engine vehicles but in offshore wind and carbon capture and storage.
Session: Environmentally Sustainable Economic Growth
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What steps he is taking to promote environmentally sustainable economic growth?
Context
The MP is concerned about promoting environmentally sustainable economic growth.
Rishi Sunak
The Government are clear that we will drive growth by investing in infrastructure, innovation and skills. In doing so, we will build back better and greener as we recover from the economic impact of coronavirus, starting with the Prime Minister's green 10-point plan.
Session: Environmentally Sustainable Economic Growth
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Will the Chancellor confirm that he is delivering a real-terms pay cut for many teaching assistants, prison officers and police constables by sticking with his announcement of a fixed increase of £250?
Context
The Chancellor previously announced a guaranteed fixed increase of £250 for public sector workers on less than £24,000. However, critics argue this will result in real-term cuts due to inflation.
Rishi Sunak
I stand by what I said. Those earning less than £24,000 in the public sector will receive a guaranteed fixed increase of at least £250.
Session: Topical Questions
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Many businesses in my constituency, such as hospitality, events, beauty, and wedding venues, have been hit terribly hard by the pandemic. As they now find themselves in tier 2 with restrictions and uncertainty, will he continue to do what he can to protect these essential enterprises?
Context
The question follows the Chancellor's initial statement on his departmental responsibilities. It highlights the significant impact of the pandemic on local businesses in Arundel and South Downs.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is right to champion his local businesses. I know it has been a very difficult time for small and medium-sized companies in Arundel and South Downs, and they will receive my continued support as we work towards recovery.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that while it is an opportunity for the whole United Kingdom, we should particularly put Wales at the heart of that green revolution?
Context
The Prime Minister outlined plans to invest in hydrogen, green energy, and electric mobility across the UK. The question asks if these opportunities should particularly benefit Wales.
David Davies
I am very happy to agree with that. The Prime Minister's commitment last week was a game changer, quadrupling offshore wind energy by 2030, doubling the amount of support for renewables projects and providing £160 million to support infrastructure and one gigawatt of new floating wind projects.
Session: City and Growth Deals
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What steps he is taking to help implement (a) city and (b) growth deals in Wales. Since March, you have participated in 24 meetings with representatives of Wales city and growth deals, and recently visited Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire after approving the Pembroke Dock marine development project.
Context
The question follows meetings to implement city and growth deals, focusing on the approval of the Pembroke Dock marine development project.
David Davies
I am committed to driving forward each of the growth deals in Wales. Since March, I have participated in 24 meetings with representatives of Wales city and growth deals. Recently, I visited Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire after approving the Pembroke Dock marine development project.
Session: City and Growth Deals
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The purpose of the Office for Students is that 'every student has a fulfilling experience of higher education'. In light of the current difficulties faced by undergraduates, will the Secretary of State commit to a post-covid review of the OfS?
Context
Undergraduates face difficulties due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gavin Williamson
I will work closely with the OfS to ensure that it is working with universities and that universities are delivering what students expect and require for their studies. We will always work closely with all government organisations to deliver the very best for students and ensure that universities deliver on students' behalf.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will he join me in welcoming the latest package of measures in the Government's winter economy plan? Those measures aim to protect jobs and help businesses throughout difficult months, ensuring Northern Ireland not only recovers but also has an opportunity to prosper as part of the United Kingdom. What specific actions will be taken?
Context
Welcoming the latest package of measures in the Government's winter economy plan to support businesses through uncertain months ahead.
Robin Walker
I absolutely join in welcoming the comprehensive winter economy plan, providing support for businesses and employees with grants, loans, and schemes. The Government is committed to strengthening the Union and levelling up opportunities for Northern Ireland's prosperity through investments in city and growth deals programme.
Session: Covid-19 Economic Recovery
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What recent discussions has he had with businesses in Northern Ireland regarding their economic recovery from the pandemic? What measures are being taken to support them?
Context
Discussions on helping businesses recover from the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak in Northern Ireland.
Robin Walker
The Secretary of State and I have engaged extensively with Northern Ireland businesses, impressed by their resilience. The Government will do everything to help through this time with the job support scheme, extended VAT reductions, and bounce back loans.
Session: Covid-19 Economic Recovery
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This summer, my constituency has seen a real spate of antisocial motorcyclists causing real distress and potential danger to my constituents. Does the Home Secretary agree that such dangerous driving needs to be robustly challenged?
Context
The constituency has seen a real spate of antisocial motorcyclists causing distress and potential danger to constituents.
Priti Patel
My hon. Friend is absolutely right, and I pay tribute to his police force in particular and his police chief for the outstanding work they do. I know that rural crime was mentioned earlier, but when it comes to tackling nuisance driving and, frankly, the wrong kind of driving—speeding and all those types of issues, including on mopeds and scooters—we need to ensure that people can go about their daily lives. We are already providing more funding for more police activity through police uplift, and the police have powers under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Police Reform Act 2002 to seize vehicles that are being driven illegally.
Session: Topical Questions
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As a Croydon MP and the shadow Policing Minister, I pay tribute to Sergeant Matt Ratana for his years of service in my community. Our community spoke as one on Friday both in our grief, but also in our gratitude for the many years of service from a wonderful officer, who was the very best of us, and we will not forget him. Community policing is the bedrock of our communities, but it has suffered deep cuts. Those cuts have an acute impact in our rural areas, where vulnerability and isolation can be particularly severe. Only one in 14 crimes leads to court proceedings. Most victims get no justice at all. The Government have overseen a cut in the number of police community support officers by nearly 50%, and there are no plans to replace them. What does the Minister say to the victims of crime who deserve justice but under this Government are just not getting it?
Context
The question stems from a tribute to Sergeant Matt Ratana and addresses the impacts of deep cuts to community policing, particularly affecting rural areas where vulnerability is high. Only one in 14 crimes leads to court proceedings, indicating significant challenges for victims seeking justice.
Kit Malthouse
I acknowledge the hon. Lady's words about the awful events of Friday. I know that it hit home hard in Croydon for her; I think she was due to visit that very custody suite that day or the following day. It was a terrible time, and hopefully justice will follow that awful crime. On the hon. Lady's wider point, she and I have had this discussion a number of times over the Dispatch Box. Although repetition is not infrequent in this Chamber, I urge her to reflect on the fact that for the first half of the coalition and then Conservative Government, we were struggling with a difficult financial situation nationally, and crime was falling. That required a different kind of response to the one we see today. She is right to point to the fact that we have seen a rise in crime over the past couple of years, albeit different kinds of crime from those we have seen previously. That is why we are massively increasing police capacity and bringing enormous focus, through the National Policing Board, the Crime Performance Board, which I lead, and the Strategic Change and Investment Board at the Home Office, to the national systemic problems that she raises in the hope that, over the next three years, we can drive them down significantly.
Session: Rural Crime Reduction
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What steps her Department is taking to reduce the level of crime committed in rural areas. Will the Minister join me in thanking the Sussex rural crime team, which I long campaigned for and which was set up by police commissioner Katy Bourne in June this year? It is now doing excellent work, protecting our rural communities, farmers and isolated towns and villages in Arundel and South Downs.
Context
The question arises from concerns over the level of crime in rural communities, particularly noting specific actions taken by local stakeholders.
Kit Malthouse
I am aware that my hon. Friend has made a huge impact in his constituency since he was elected recently and that this is a result of something that he has campaigned on for some time. I applaud Katy Bourne—who is one of our leading police and crime commissioners and is always innovating—on the establishment of this unit, and I hope that it will make a big difference. I am reminded with rural crime of that interesting philosophical question: if a tree falls in a forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? If a crime happens and no one reports it, do the police see it? I urge my hon. Friend to encourage his constituents, particularly in rural areas—we have had a number of questions on rural crime today—to report every single crime, because modern policing is driven by data, and if a crime is not reported, as far as the police are concerned, it probably never happened.
Session: Rural Crime Reduction
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Given Scotland's abundant renewable resources, what conversations are taking place between the Government and Scotland to ensure that we seize this opportunity together as a Union?
Context
Scotland has significant renewable resources that could position it as a leader in the global hydrogen market, estimated at $2.5 trillion.
Iain Stewart
Government are committed to developing hydrogen technology. The Hydrogen Advisory Council was launched in July, involving Government and UK industry, with Scottish companies participating.
Session: Covid-19 Support for Businesses
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What discussions has the Minister had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer regarding economic support available for Scottish businesses during the covid-19 outbreak?
Context
Discussions are ongoing about the economic impact of coronavirus in Scotland, with a focus on supporting local businesses.
Iain Stewart
The Government are having regular discussions with Cabinet colleagues, including the Chancellor, regarding the impact of coronavirus in Scotland. Over £2.3 billion of business support has been provided through government-backed loan schemes.
Session: Covid-19 Support for Businesses
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I thank my hon. Friend for her reply, and I add my thanks to the amazing work that Jen Allum and her gov.uk team have done during this crisis. Does my hon. Friend agree that there is a huge opportunity in the fact that the UK has moved quickly to cashless transactions and digital government, and that as we move beyond this crisis, it is important that we do not regress and that we unleash the opportunity for economic growth?
Context
Recognition of the gov.uk team's work during a crisis and inquiry about opportunities for economic growth through digital advancements.
Chloe Smith (Minister for Policing and the Criminal Justice System)
Yes, I do, and there are two points to make here. First, the Government have taken unprecedented steps to support the economy through the immediate crisis, looking towards a strong and sustainable recovery. Secondly, I think we all recognise that digital payments have positively transformed the way that many people buy things and transact, and we are committed to supporting those payments while protecting access to cash for those who need it.
Session: Digital Technology
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What steps has his Department taken to enhance the Government's use of digital technology?
Context
Inquiry about steps taken by the government to improve digital services during a crisis.
Chloe Smith (Minister for Policing and the Criminal Justice System)
The Government have implemented the technology code of practice and service standard, which provides Departments with technical support and case studies to improve how they design, build and buy digital technology to give citizens the best services. The Government Digital Service is also building digital capacity through the Digital Academy and applying the innovation that we might find in the private sector at public sector scale through the GovTech Catalyst fund, to support the use of emerging technologies.
Session: Digital Technology
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Thanking the hon. Friend for his reply, I ask if he agrees that we now need a growth deal for the whole United Kingdom based on free enterprise, an export boost from new free trade deals, and locking in some of the productivity gains made during this crisis for a transition to a more digital and cashless economy?
Context
Building on previous discussions, the questioner asks about the possibility of a nationwide growth deal based on free enterprise principles, leveraging new trade agreements, and adopting productivity gains from recent digital transitions.
Douglas Ross
I agree that as we recover from the pandemic, steps must be taken to protect livelihoods through a strong economy. City and growth deals in Scotland and across the UK will play their part in ensuring job protection and funding for essential services.
Session: Growth Deals
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What progress has been made on delivering growth deals for every region in Scotland?
Context
The questioner is inquiring about the progress made by his department towards delivering growth deals for every region in Scotland. This follows previous discussions and agreements on economic development plans.
Douglas Ross
We have agreed a city or growth deal for each of Scotland's seven city regions. We have also agreed, or are in the process of agreeing, growth deals for Ayrshire, Borderlands, Argyll and Bute, Falkirk, the Islands, and Moray. This means that every area of Scotland will have a city or growth deal.
Session: Growth Deals
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Local Government Reorganisation
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
UK-Switzerland Enhanced Free Trade Agreement
14 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Steel Industry (Alleviation of Financial Difficulties) Bill - Clause 3 - Sunset for exercise of principal transfer powers
14 July 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government support all the Lords amendments before us, which strengthen the Steel Industry (Alleviation of Financial Difficulties) Bill. Amendment 1 ensures that the sunset power in the Bill may b...
Steel Trade Measure
25 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Steel Tariffs
17 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Climate Change (Political Declaration) Bill - Amendment moved by the Leader of the Opposition
21 May 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Ms. Cummins has opened debate on an amendment proposed by the Leader of the Opposition, without specifying her own position or arguments.
Local Government Reorganisation
26 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
UK-India Free Trade Agreement
09 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
This debate considers the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, which was a significant achievement in opening up new opportunities for trade with India. The agreement boosts GDP by £4.8 billion, increases w...
Seasonal Work 2025-12-10
10 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion regrets Government policies that are making seasonal, flexible and part-time work more difficult; notes the negative impact on young people in hospitality, leisure and retail sectors due to...
Employment Rights Bill 2025-12-08
08 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government's plan to make work pay through the Employment Rights Bill will bring employment rights legislation into the 21st century, extending protections for all workers. This includes reducing ...
Support for rural areas, farming, country sports and the equestrian sector
24 June 2026
The petition addresses concerns from residents in the constituency of Arundel and South Downs who feel that rural traditions, farming, country sports (including trail hunting and shooting), and the eq...
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Proposed Solar Development in Wisborough Green
08 January 2026
The petitioners are concerned about the proposed construction of a 20MW solar farm by Renewable Connections near Wisborough Green, arguing that it is inappropriate due to its scale, location, and nega...
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Proposed Heath Common development
15 September 2021
The petition concerns the proposed development of Heath Common by Clarion Housing Group for residential housing in Storrington, which residents argue is inappropriate as it was not designated in the l...
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Attendance
67.3%
66 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
35
35.7% of votes
No Votes
31
31.6% of votes
Abstentions
32
32.7% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 NO
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
7
PMQs Asked
43
Ministerial Questions Asked
134
House of Commons Debates Involved
0
Westminster Hall Debates Led
6
Statements / Bills
3
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
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+221% above average
This MP:
43
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2657% above average
This MP:
134
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-37% below average
This MP:
6
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+22% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-3% below average
This MP:
67.3
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 Andrew Griffith's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.