Angela Crawley
MP for Lanark and Hamilton East
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Will the Deputy Prime Minister admit his Tory Government's failure on these issues?
Context
The government faces criticism for high inflation, interest rates, energy prices, food shortages, strikes in public sectors including NHS, and graduate debt issues.
Oliver Dowden (Deputy Prime Minister)
Rather than focusing on playing politics, we are delivering for the British people. The SNP has three failing First Ministers, two unfinished ferries, and a failed deposit return scheme in Scotland.
Assessment
Did not address failures or election calls; deflected to SNP's record instead.
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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Every day, I meet constituents who are struggling to make ends meet, food banks are barely managing to meet the demand, and households and businesses up and down the country are struggling to meet their energy bills, yet the Bank of England has announced that it is likely once again to increase interest rates, which will affect the poorest the most and hike up mortgage rates again. After 13 years of Conservative government, does the Prime Minister agree with the Bank of England's chief economist that the poorest should just accept being poorer?
Context
Many constituents are struggling to meet energy bills, and the Bank of England has announced it is likely once again to increase interest rates.
Rishi Sunak
We are doing an enormous amount to support those who most need our help with the cost of living and some of the pressures that they face on energy bills in particular. That is why we made the decision to tax the windfall profits of energy companies and use that money to help pay around half a typical family's energy bills. That support is worth £1,500 and applies across the United Kingdom.
Assessment
The PM did not directly address whether he agrees with the Bank's stance but discussed measures to support those facing higher costs.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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One in four pregnancies ends in miscarriage. Does the Prime Minister agree that parents' grief for this profound loss is not an illness and therefore that parents should receive formal miscarriage leave rather than resorting to sick pay or unpaid leave if their miscarriage occurs before 24 weeks? Will he support my private Member's Bill and introduce paid miscarriage leave for parents?
Context
One in four pregnancies ends in miscarriage, and parents often resort to sick pay or unpaid leave if their miscarriage occurs before 24 weeks.
Boris Johnson
I sympathise deeply with anybody who has suffered the loss of a baby by miscarriage, of course. What I can tell the hon. Lady is that we did introduce, in 2020, paid parental bereavement leave. That entitles those who lose a child after 24 weeks of pregnancy to some payment, but, of course, nothing I can say, and no payment we could make, would be any consolation to those who experience a miscarriage in that way.
Assessment
Did not commit to supporting the private Member's Bill for paid miscarriage leave before 24 weeks
Session: PMQs
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Yesterday, the Scottish Government announced they would go further than the Prime Minister by introducing a comprehensive system of supervised quarantine. It is clear countries with such measures are reaping economic rewards while reducing unnecessary deaths. Given the evidence of importing new cases undermining efforts, why does the Prime Minister wait and hope when his delays have had catastrophic consequences?
Context
The Scottish Government announced a comprehensive system of supervised quarantine for those entering the country, citing evidence that effective international quarantine measures can help reopen economies and reduce loss of life.
Boris Johnson
The Government will be happy to help accelerate vaccine roll-out, but does not want lectures on speed of delivery from the Scottish nationalist party. The vaccination programme is the most important thing now.
Assessment
Why he should implement effective quarantine measures based on evidence
Does Not Want Lectures On Speed Of Delivery
Session: PMQs
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Hundreds of my constituents have been excluded from the furlough scheme or support for the self-employed due to real-time information cut-off dates and 50% cap on non-trading income. The Government's solution is taking out loans, untenable for many leading to unemployment and bankruptcy. Will the Prime Minister commit to widening access to these schemes for those left behind?
Context
Many constituents are left behind from the furlough scheme or support for self-employed due to gaps in legislation.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
There are 12,000 people who have taken advantage of the furlough scheme in her constituency. They get 80% income up to £2,500 a month. We have massively increased universal credit, which is up by £1,040 for families across the country.
Session: PMQs
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This PM has shown no respect for Scotland. Will he listen to Scotland's food and drink sector employing 40,000 EU nationals with 46,000 roles needing filling? When will this PM accept that Scotland must tailor its own immigration policy?
Context
The Scottish food and drink sector employs 40,000 EU nationals with 46,000 roles to fill by 2030. The question focuses on the need for Scotland's power over its own immigration policies.
Boris Johnson
I have respect for the people of Scotland. I have less respect for the SNP government who are currently producing less growth than any other part of the UK.
Assessment
Tailored immigration policies
Less Respect
Growth
Session: PMQs
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How much taxpayers' money does the Attorney General estimate the Government will spend appealing this illegal plan?
Context
The Rwanda asylum plan has been declared incompatible with several international conventions, including those protecting against torture and inhumane treatment. The Supreme Court is expected to rule on its legality.
Victoria Prentis
I absolutely do not accept the premise of the hon. Lady's question. The divisional court was a strong win for the Government. At the Court of Appeal, the majority found against us, but we also had a strong judgment from the Lord Chief Justice. We believe that the assurances we have had from Rwanda regarding asylum protections there are robust, and we intend to make those arguments strongly in the Supreme Court.
Session: Illegal Migration Bill
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Does she recognise her Government's policy change on student dependants risks jeopardising key income streams for financially strained universities across the UK and Scotland?
Context
The Higher Education Statistics Authority showed that 55% of UK universities recorded a deficit in the last academic year. International students account for almost one-fifth of income, with Scottish institutions affected.
Gillian Keegan
Our offer remains competitive, and we are committed to ensuring the UK remains a choice destination for international students. These changes will predominantly affect dependants of students, but not impact the competitive nature of our university offer.
Session: Student Visas Higher Education
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What recent discussions has she had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on the potential impact of changes to the student visa route on the competitiveness of the higher education sector?
Context
The Higher Education Statistics Authority reported that 55% of UK universities recorded a deficit in the last academic year. International students account for nearly one-fifth of revenue.
Gillian Keegan
UK universities are home to some of the world's top institutions, benefiting from strong international ties. The change restricts postgraduate students' right to bring dependants, striking a balance for fair migration policy while maintaining UK's attractiveness for global talent.
Session: Student Visas Higher Education
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Given that it is known the Attorney General has reservations about the Illegal Migration Bill and far-right members of her party intend to rebel to push the Bill into breaking international law, will she do the honourable thing today and confirm if the Prime Minister concedes on this issue, she will make a stand and declare the Bill unlawful?
Context
The Attorney General is known to have reservations about the Illegal Migration Bill. Far-right members of her party are planning to rebel, aiming to push the Bill further into breaking international law.
Victoria Prentis
The Illegal Migration Bill passed its Committee stage in the House without amendment, indicating there are no issues with it breaking international law as far as this stage is concerned.
Session: Illegal Immigration Bill ECHR Compatibility
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What discussions has the Minister had with her Cabinet colleagues on the consequences of policies such as the punitive sanctions regime that are shown to increase anxiety and harm to people's mental health?
Context
The Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland reported that 52% of Scots are concerned about the impact of rising prices on their mental health. Poverty is a key driver of poor mental health, and those already struggling with financial issues may face exacerbated mental health challenges.
Maria Caulfield
This Government have provided a £37 billion package, including £15 billion of targeted support for those most in need. This includes help with council tax, electricity payments, and an 8 million person £1,200 payment to address energy costs.
Session: Cost of Living Mental Health
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What recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of the cost of living crisis on long-term trends in levels of mental ill health? The Royal College of Psychiatrists found that 52% of Scots are concerned about rising prices impacting their mental health. Poverty drives poor mental health, and those already struggling with financial worries may be hardest hit.
Context
The Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland reported that 52% of Scots are concerned about the impact of rising prices on their mental health. Poverty is a key driver of poor mental health, and those already struggling with financial issues may face exacerbated mental health challenges.
Maria Caulfield
The Government have invested £50 million through the better mental health fund in 40 local authorities that are most deprived. This funding aims to boost prevention and early intervention, supporting those hardest hit by the pandemic and cost of living.
Session: Cost of Living Mental Health
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Does the Secretary of State agree with the former Prime Minister, Sir John Major, who reminded the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee earlier this month that, far from being some bureaucratic creation, the ECHR was championed by Churchill and his Conservative Government?
Context
Former Prime Minister Sir John Major highlighted that leaving the ECHR would be akin to aligning with Belarus and Russia.
Dominic Raab
I do not think that many people take issue with the convention. Of course, it was negotiated at a very different time and place. The real issue has been the mission creep and the expanding and elastic interpretations of the ECHR since that time.
Session: European Convention on Human Rights
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It is almost one year to the day since the beginning of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, and an estimated 7,000 civilian lives have been lost during this time, in one of the most barbaric atrocities against civilians recorded since the second world war. Given that the UK will host a major international meeting on war crimes in March, what further support will the Attorney General give on information sharing and testimonial gathering, and on ensuring that legal expertise will be fully utilised to hold Russian war criminals to account?
Context
It is almost one year since the beginning of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, with an estimated 7,000 civilian lives lost. An international meeting on war crimes will be hosted by the UK in March.
Victoria Prentis
I thank the hon. Lady for her question. It is fortuitous that the Lord Chancellor has just entered the Chamber, because in March he is hosting an important conference, with the Dutch, to discuss how further we can help and support the work of the ICC. Further, we have the work of the special tribunal that I mentioned, and we are providing a great deal of practical help on the ground in training Ukrainian judges and providing funding to help them to find evidence and to prosecute these crimes effectively.
Session: Support for Ukraine’s Judiciary
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Brexit has cost the UK £40 billion a year in tax revenue. That would be enough to fill the black hole caused by the Tory mini-budget, along with yet another round of Tory austerity. Scotland did not vote for Brexit, for this Government, the last one or the one before that, so does the Secretary of State think it is right that Scotland should suffer due to his party's extreme Brexit ideology?
Context
Brexit has cost the UK £40 billion a year in tax revenue, enough to fill the black hole caused by the Tory mini-Budget.
Alister Jack
This Government respect democracy. We respect the outcome of referendums. There was a referendum in 2014 on Scottish independence. We respected the result; the Scottish National party has not. In 2016, the United Kingdom, which we are all part of, voted to leave the European Union, and we delivered on that.
Session: Impact of Leaving the EU
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May I also take the opportunity to welcome the Attorney General to her place? A commitment to protecting women and girls should mean protecting all women and girls. Safeguards protecting against gender-based violence must be extended to migrant women. What representations has the Attorney General made to the Home Office to ensure that migrant women are offered the same protections as other women in the UK, and to ratify the Istanbul convention fully and without reservation?
Context
A commitment to protecting women and girls includes the need to extend safeguards against gender-based violence to migrant women, ensuring they are offered similar protections as other women in the UK.
Michael Tomlinson
I know that my right hon. Friend the Attorney General will be very grateful for the hon. Lady's welcome. The Attorney General works incredibly closely with the Home Office on the issue; more broadly, in relation to victims, she works incredibly closely with the Home Office and with the Ministry of Justice. It is not in isolation, but with our three Departments, that we can make progress.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Prosecution Rates
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Last week I hosted a cost of living event in Hamilton, and every day I am inundated by people contacting me about the potential loss of the triple lock on pensions. My constituents were just getting by before the cost of living crisis, but they are now avoiding supermarkets, struggling to pay heating bills and fearing starvation and hypothermia this coming winter. Will the Minister act now to prevent pensioner poverty and call on the Chancellor today to guarantee the triple lock on pensions and to ensure that they rise in line with inflation?
Context
The MP asks about government action to prevent pensioner poverty, specifically calling for a guarantee on the triple lock on pensions.
John Lamont
As I said earlier, the focus of this Government is on supporting the most vulnerable people in our society, and we will always take this responsibility seriously. The Government will act, as they always do, to take the action necessary to support the constituents that the hon. Lady has mentioned.
Session: Public Expenditure and the Cost of Living
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What assessment his Department has made of the potential effect of the Government's spending decisions on (a) public expenditure and (b) the cost of living in Scotland?
Context
The MP asks about the potential effects of government spending on public expenditure and cost of living in Scotland.
John Lamont
Without pre-empting the details of the Chancellor's statement tomorrow, I can say that the Government's position is that, while tough decisions will be necessary, we remain committed to targeting support at the most vulnerable people in our communities across this land. As well as benefiting from a record block grant settlement to the Scottish Government, the people of Scotland benefit from higher levels of public spending, as is demonstrated through the Union dividend of about £2,000 a year per person.
Session: Public Expenditure and the Cost of Living
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In the latest poll in Scotland, the Prime Minister has a net approval rating of minus 71. Included in that negative figure are the Scottish Conservative leader and every Conservative MSP and Scottish MP except for the Secretary of State. So does the Minister think that the threat to the Union posed by the Prime Minister clinging to his job is a price worth paying?
Context
The MP highlighted recent polling showing the Prime Minister has a net approval rating of -71 in Scotland, suggesting his continued leadership poses risks to the Union.
Iain Stewart
First, I would be delighted to congratulate the café in the hon. Gentleman's constituency and when I am next in Edinburgh I will endeavour to pay a visit. I do not agree with the hon. Gentleman. This Government and this Prime Minister are focusing on the big issues that face Scotland and the whole United Kingdom: keeping the west safe from Russian aggression; dealing with the global economic challenges from the pandemic and the war; and addressing the long-term challenges such as energy security and climate change.
Session: Union’s Impact on Scotland
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If he will make an assessment of the impact of the Union on Scotland. Last year, the Scottish Tory manifesto stated that a vote for them was a vote to stop an independence referendum, yet they achieved only 22% of the vote. Does the Minister accept that the people of Scotland have a right to have a vote on 19 October 2023 because their campaign message has failed?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the effect of the Union on Scotland following a recent poll indicating low approval ratings for the Prime Minister in Scotland.
Iain Stewart
The constitutional issues were so far down the list of people's priorities when that poll took place. What the people of Scotland want are their Governments, whether that is local, Scottish or UK, to be working together on addressing the issues that matter to them and responding to the big challenges we face as a country and a world.
Session: Union’s Impact on Scotland
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Does she accept that the Good Friday agreement sits alongside other agreements rather than taking precedence, and should it not be used as a basis to walk away from the deal that the UK Government signed? Will she commit to publishing the legal advice in full?
Context
There are concerns that legal advice given to the Prime Minister suggested the Good Friday agreement takes precedence over the Northern Ireland protocol.
Suella Braverman
I will not repeat my answer, but we do not comment on media speculation and I respect and take incredibly seriously the Law Officers' convention. The Foreign Secretary has made it clear that the Government will publish a statement summarising their legal position shortly.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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Given that Russia is not a member of the ICC and will almost certainly refuse to recognise its jurisdiction, what discussions has the Attorney General had with her international partners on alternative forums for prosecution?
Context
Russia's non-membership in the ICC and refusal to recognize its jurisdiction pose challenges. Former Prime Ministers John Major and Gordon Brown have suggested setting up a court similar to Nuremburg.
Suella Braverman
Of course, all options are on the table, and I will always defer to my counterpart in Ukraine, the Prosecutor General, in my efforts to support her and her choice of route for redress. While we welcome the focus on accountability, we believe that the International Criminal Court is the right place for those responsible for committing these atrocious crimes in Ukraine to be held accountable for their actions. That is why, led by the Deputy Prime Minister, we are focusing all our energy, all our assistance and all our resources on the ICC prosecutor's independent investigation.
Session: Russia
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In their consultation response the Scottish Government highlighted that in the initial UK Government approach to Windrush: 'No amount of evidence or reasoned argument proved able to persuade the Home Office of the catastrophic errors which had occurred.' The HRA was instrumental in securing justice for the Windrush victims, and the UK Government later said they would learn lessons from those failings. Should they not start by ditching plans to overhaul the legislation that was instrumental in securing justice for the Windrush victims?
Context
The Scottish Government's consultation response highlighted that the initial UK Government approach to Windrush victims was marked by a failure to acknowledge catastrophic errors despite evidence. The HRA played a crucial role in securing justice for these individuals.
Dominic Raab
It is really important that the hon. Lady raises the question of the Windrush scandal. Hon. Members across the House would agree that that should never have happened, but of course it happened throughout the entirety of the entry into force of the Human Rights Act and there was nothing about the Act that led to the situation being addressed in this House—that was down to hon. Members who became aware of what had happened because of members of our communities who had been affected. Frankly, the Human Rights Act did not stop Windrush and had absolutely no role in remedying it.
Session: Bill of Rights and Human Rights Act 1998
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Given recent chilling comments from the Minister on the UK Parliament's role in correcting judicial decisions Ministers disagree with, can he acknowledge the concerns this raises regarding separation of powers and how it affects the UK's credibility among European countries who threaten judicial independence?
Context
The minister recently made comments about UK Parliament potentially correcting decisions of the judiciary that ministers disagree with, raising concerns for judicial independence.
James Cartlidge
The Bill strengthens judicial review by introducing new remedies like suspending quashing orders, which the hon. Lady mentioned as beneficial for constituents and public administration.
Session: Judicial Review and Courts Bill
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What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the Judicial Review and Courts Bill?
Context
The Judicial Review and Courts Bill has been discussed in the House of Commons. The bill aims to fix inefficient processes causing delays in the justice system.
James Cartlidge
The Bill had its Second Reading in this House on 26 October. It is now in Committee, where the hon. Lady is part of that Committee. The Bill fixes inefficient processes causing delay and gives judges more flexibility to resolve judicial reviews practically.
Session: Judicial Review and Courts Bill
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I welcome the Attorney General back to her place and wish her growing family all the very best. Does the Attorney General agree that any effective criminal justice system must ensure that cases are brought in a timely manner? Will she join me in welcoming the £50 million announced by the Scottish Government to clear the court backlog, and outline any advice that she has given to her Cabinet colleagues to ensure that victims can access effective and prompt justice through the court system?
Context
The question addresses the need for timely case processing within the criminal justice system, prompted by a £50 million announcement from the Scottish Government aimed at clearing court backlogs.
Suella Braverman
There has been a real focus on dealing with the backlog and ensuring a better flow of cases right from reporting at the police station through to conviction. That was most pertinently highlighted in the recent rape review published by this Government with a particular focus on those victims. There have been a huge number of changes implemented by the CPS with cross-system partners to assist the criminal justice response to covid. As I have mentioned, it includes the interim charging protocol, which is designed to be clear that the high-harm crimes and covid-related crimes, such as spitting and assaults on essential workers, are prioritised. That will be and has been an effective step forward in dealing with the backlog.
Session: Effective and Accountable Justice
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With a record 60,000 cases in the backlog of Crown court cases, past UK Government austerity is closing legal aid centres and now covid is impacting significantly on access to justice. Does the Attorney General agree that the justice system is vital to keeping cases moving through the justice system, and what does he plan to do to ensure that access to legal aid is available for everyone across the UK?
Context
The MP highlighted the impact of austerity measures and the pandemic on access to justice, questioning the government's plans for ensuring legal aid availability.
Michael Ellis
The hon. Member is right to raise this point. Of course, access to legal aid is very important in the administration of justice, and this Government have maintained funding for that purpose. She is also right to focus on the impact of the pandemic on the system.
Session: Criminal Justice System Recovery Covid-19
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Ahead of 'Support. Don't Punish' day of action, will the Minister speak with his Cabinet colleagues about reforming the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and supporting a four nations summit on drug-related issues?
Context
The Scottish Government intends to open an overdose prevention centre in Glasgow, but their plans are hindered by outdated drug legislation. Saturday is “Support. Don't Punish” day of action.
Alister Jack
There are no plans to introduce drug consumption rooms. The evidence does not currently support their use, but needle and syringe programmes and naloxone availability are supported by the government.
Session: Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
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What discussions has he had with the devolved Administrations on the effectiveness of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971?
Context
Drug deaths in Scotland are the highest in Europe and about four times higher than those in England and Wales. The Scottish Government is responsible for most levers to tackle drug misuse, but they have reportedly taken their eye off the ball.
Alister Jack
The United Kingdom Government are keen to work with the Scottish Government to tackle drug-related deaths, including through a UK-wide summit. However, the Scottish Government has declined to participate in Project ADDER despite invitations from the Minister for Crime and Policing.
Session: Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
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In the UK, two weeks' parental leave and pay is in place after stillbirth, but there is no such support for anyone who has experienced a miscarriage before 24 weeks of pregnancy. Will the Minister support my calls to the UK Government and allow families to grieve for their profound loss by legislating for paid leave for everyone that experiences miscarriage?
Context
There is currently no support for families experiencing miscarriages before 24 weeks of pregnancy. The hon. Lady calls for legislating paid leave for everyone that experiences miscarriage.
Paul Scully
I am grateful to the hon. Lady for raising that point. We have looked at seeking to change the rules about neonatal leave. Any grieving situation is incredibly difficult, but as we work towards the employment Bill, we will make sure that we can come up with a rounded view for anybody that is grieving.
Session: Topical Questions
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According to the Centre for Women's Justice, one woman every week for the last two years has reported domestic abuse by their police officer spouse or partner, and every woman it spoke to said that the police had failed to investigate their case. Given the severity of these statistics, how confident is the Attorney General that the correct processes are in place in the Crown Prosecution Service to ensure that complaints involving the police are investigated objectively?
Context
The Centre for Women's Justice reported that one woman every week over the past two years has faced domestic abuse from their police officer spouse or partner, with all women surveyed stating that the police failed to investigate their cases.
Michael Ellis
The issue of the police is a matter for the Home Office, but I would say that I know the police are working very hard to prioritise and focus on these domestic abuse cases, and they do seek to achieve the very best possible results in all circumstances. There are tried and tested mechanisms for making complaints against the police available to anyone who feels a complaint is appropriate and justified. We have worked very hard to produce the Domestic Abuse Act which covers multiple areas that will protect women and girls.
Session: Domestic Violence Prosecutions
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The SNP Scottish Government have committed to doubling their climate change justice fund if re-elected next week. This £21 million fund is used to help combat the effects of climate change in the global south while we tackle carbon emissions at home. In the year of COP26, will the UK Government follow Scotland's lead and commit to a comparable climate justice fund to help those affected by climate change?
Context
The MP mentions the SNP Scottish Government's commitment to doubling their climate change justice fund and seeks a comparable financial commitment from the UK Government.
David Duguid (UK Minister of State)
Not only will we commit to a comparable financial commitment, but the recent spending review committed to spending £12 billion on green measures to support the 10-point plan and boost the UK's global leadership on green infrastructure and technologies, not just ahead of COP26 this year, but beyond as well.
Session: COP26
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What assessment has been made regarding the impact of UK's budget cuts for development aid committed to sustainable development goals, particularly those related to tackling climate change?
Context
UK officials stated that greater climate action is needed. However, the UK's overseas spending cuts are raising concerns about their impact on developing economies' ability to address climate change.
James Duddridge
As the hon. Lady can imagine, this is a very important issue, and I have asked the question internally within the Department and can assure her that we are doubling our international climate finance to £11.6 billion over the next five years and have committed to aligning all official development assistance with the Paris agreement.
Session: Climate Change International Co-operation and the Global South
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What recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of his Department in helping to ensure the Government's compliance with international law on the rights of refugees?
Context
There is a concern about the effectiveness of the government department in ensuring that its actions comply with international laws, particularly concerning refugees and asylum seekers.
Michael Ellis
Any request for my advice is subject to the Law Officers' convention, but I must make it clear that the UK prides itself on its leadership within the international system and that it discharges its international obligations in good faith. I also point out that the Solicitor General, whom I very much welcome to her place, attends the Parliamentary Business and Legislation Committee, which scrutinises all the Government's legislation before it reaches Parliament.
Session: International Law on Rights of Refugees Government Compliance
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How does the Minister feel about the prospect of major acts deciding that they need base themselves abroad because our parochial laws do not allow the movement needed to compete on the global stage?
Context
Notable musicians such as Radiohead, Elton John, Ronan Keating and Brian Cox have highlighted concerns about visa restrictions affecting UK artists' ability to tour internationally.
Penny Mordaunt
During negotiations, the EU did not propose measures addressing work permits or support staff travel. The only way forward is to get the EU to agree to our reasonable proposals and I urge everyone to work with us on this issue.
Session: Touring Musicians Reciprocal Visa-free Travel
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Last week in the Joint Committee on Human Rights, Lord Neuberger pointed out that the Human Rights Act plays an important role in ensuring that people have access to justice and means to protect their rights. He also noted the importance of maintaining human rights avenues while reducing legal aid centres. Does the Secretary of State agree with this statement?
Context
Lord Neuberger highlighted the importance of the Human Rights Act in ensuring justice access, especially with reduced legal aid.
Robert Buckland
I agree that the Human Rights Act has played an important part in helping applicants bring cases before courts. However, he clarified that the review is about the framework of the Act itself and not the scope of convention rights scheduled within it.
Session: Human Rights Act 1998
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What are his plans to bring forward proposals to amend the Human Rights Act 1998?
Context
The Human Rights Act is under review by the government. This question inquires about specific plans for amending the act.
Robert Buckland
The Government established an independent review of the Human Rights Act that examines its operation and whether changes are required. The review considers domestic court approaches to European Court jurisprudence, balance between courts, government, and Parliament, and what reforms might be justified. It will report in summer.
Session: Human Rights Act 1998
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The deputy assistant commissioner of the Metropolitan police has noted that losing access to EU databases like Schengen will extend criminal conviction time significantly, calling this a 'capability gap' with a 'massive impact'. In case of no-deal Brexit, what emergency contingency plans does the Department have in place?
Context
Concerns have been raised about the impact of losing access to EU databases such as the Schengen information system, which could increase average conviction times from six days to 60 days. This scenario highlights a significant capability gap and potential security risks.
James Brokenshire (Minister of State for Security and Economic Crime)
National security remains our absolute priority. This country is a safe country and will remain so after the end of the transition period. Alternative arrangements are in place if negotiations fail, transitioning cooperation to non-EU mechanisms by the end of the transition period.
Session: End of Transition Period National Security)
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What recent assessment has she made of the potential effect of the end of the transition period on national security?
Context
The question concerns the potential negative effects on national security following the end of the transition period, a critical issue for UK's safety and cooperation with EU partners.
James Brokenshire (Minister of State for Security and Economic Crime)
The safety and security of our citizens remains our priority. We are working closely with operational partners to ensure we are ready for a range of scenarios at the end of the transition period. We will continue to co-operate with European and international partners to tackle shared security threats.
Session: End of Transition Period National Security)
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By contrast to the Secretary of State's power surge, the European single market's principles are based on equality, co-operation and consent. If he claims that the policy is not a power grab, will he guarantee a mechanism for negotiation, agreement and consent between the four nations?
Context
Concerns over the UK's approach to its internal market, contrasting it with European standards.
Alister Jack
For standards, frameworks will be by consent across the United Kingdom. There is the opportunity for parties to opt out. As a safety net for business, we are introducing mutual recognition underpinning the European single market and non-discrimination protections.
Session: UK Internal Market
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On the integrated review of security, defence, development and foreign policy, I would like to understand what specific steps the Secretary of State is taking to establish an atrocity prevention strategy to avert further identity-based violence worldwide.
Context
The question pertains to the specific steps taken by the government in establishing an atrocity prevention strategy as part of the integrated review.
Dominic Raab
I entirely agree with the hon. Lady's passion and commitment on the subject. Of course, we have already introduced Magnitsky sanctions, which allow us to target the perpetrators of human rights abuses with visa bans and asset freezes. More generally, in the context of the integrated review, one of the powerful themes is the United Kingdom's role in the world being joined up, which is why we have brought DFID and the Foreign Office together, in solving disputes, managing conflict and holding the worst perpetrators of human rights abuses to account.
Session: Integrated Review of Policy
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Can the Minister outline the relationship between the independent review of the Human Rights Act and the proposed constitution, democracy and rights commission? Does he also plan to consult devolved Administrations on the terms of reference?
Context
Exploring the relationship between the Human Rights Act review and the proposed constitution, democracy and rights commission.
Alex Chalk (Minister of State for Justice)
There is a manifesto commitment to update the Human Rights Act. The implications for Scotland's distinct legal jurisdiction must be taken into account and will be considered.
Session: Human Rights Act 1998 Discussions with Scottish Government
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Does the Minister agree with me and the majority of the public surveyed by the Open Knowledge Foundation that the Government need to urgently impose compulsory action on social media sites to clamp down on the spread of such misinformation?
Context
Disinformation about covid-19 can spread rapidly and poses significant risks.
James Heappey, Minister for Defence Procurement
Again, I am comfortable responding about disinformation, which the military has an active role in countering, but misinformation is the responsibility of my colleagues in the Cabinet Office and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
Session: Covid-19 Tackling Disinformation
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Fuel Costs: Rural Households and Communities
29 March 2023
Responding: Amanda Solloway
Main Concerns
['Around 2 million people in the UK rely on off-grid gas supplies to heat their homes, including heating oil, liquefied petroleum gas, coal, and biomass. Rural homes are more likely to be less energy-efficient and therefore more susceptible to fuel poverty, with 15.9% of households in rural areas experiencing fuel poverty compared to 11.1% in urban areas. Constituents like Roy face significant challenges due to the rising cost of kerosene, with prices increasing from £1 per litre in June 2022 to an estimated 71p per litre in April and 81p in March.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should ensure that remaining households eligible for alternative fuel payments receive them promptly. Additionally, the Minister should address how she plans to ameliorate the impact of rising fuel costs on off-grid electricity-dependent households. The Government must also consider more stringent windfall tax measures and commit to reducing exponential increases in standing charges.']
Employment Law: Devolution to Scotland — [Sir Edward Leigh in the Chair]
06 September 2022
Responding: Jane Hunt
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the UK Government's failure to introduce an employment Bill despite promises in their manifesto. The Scottish Government has taken numerous steps to improve workers' rights, such as publishing a fair work action plan and establishing a fair work convention, but their efforts are limited due to reserved powers on employment law. With the cost of living crisis and the ongoing pandemic recovery, it is imperative for the UK Government to act now or let Scotland take control over employment laws."]
Specific Asks
["I call on the UK Government to either introduce an employment Bill or devolve employment law powers to Scotland, allowing them to address pressing issues such as flexible working rights and protection against workplace sexual harassment. The Scottish Government has demonstrated its commitment to improving workers' rights but is constrained by reserved UK laws."]
Universal Basic Income
15 June 2022
Responding: David Rutley
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the impact of the cost of living crisis on households across the country, pushing them further into poverty and destitution. The current welfare system designated recipients as being deserving only if they meet certain conditions, which is cruel and unforgiving towards desperate people who are seen as undeserving. A universal basic income would mean secure, regular payments for every citizen without threat of disruption, ensuring that everyone can afford food, housing, and have a minimum standard of living. A study by the University of York found that a universal basic income could cut poverty by more than half, bring child poverty down by over 50%, pensioner poverty by 50% and working-age poverty by a quarter.']
Specific Asks
["I urge the Minister to consider extending his party's new compassionate approach to the benefits system, abandon cruel practices such as sanctioning those who are desperate, and seriously consider establishing a pilot scheme for universal basic income. The biggest barrier is ideological, not practical or financial, given the substantial Department for Work and Pensions budget."]
Paid Miscarriage Leave
08 March 2022
Responding: Paul Scully
Main Concerns
['One pregnancy in four ends in miscarriage. Miscarriage is often used as an umbrella term for various conditions, including ectopic and molar pregnancies. An ectopic pregnancy occurs once in every eighty cases. The stigma around the subject of miscarriage prevents women from discussing it openly, leading to significant grief and potential workplace discrimination. Women fear disclosing their pregnancy status before 12 weeks due to employer discrimination concerns. Miscarriage leave should be a recognised right, not an illness or holiday.']
Specific Asks
['The Government must consider the proposed employment Bill to ensure provisions for paid miscarriage leave are included, benefiting women and their partners facing baby loss. The UK should follow international best practices by introducing statutory paid miscarriage leave across all sectors.']
European Union Settlement Scheme
16 June 2021
Responding: Kevin Foster
Main Concerns
["Angela Crawley is concerned about the disruption caused by the EU settlement scheme and the potential for another Windrush scandal. She mentions that 5.6 million applications have been made, with over 300,000 still pending decisions as of early June. Many applicants are feeling unwanted and unwelcome due to the government's approach. There is a backlog of more than 300,000 applications waiting to be cleared by the Home Office, raising legal ambiguity for those who miss the deadline."]
Specific Asks
['Crawley urges the Minister to consider extending the scheme deadline and to provide clear guidance on the rights of applicants. She also asks the government to ensure that individuals with pre-settled status are treated equally when applying for welfare benefits, services, and employment.']
Action Against Houthi Maritime Attacks
23 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Ways and Means
21 March 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Chancellor has brought people back into the workforce through the Budget, highlighting the productivity challenge in the UK and addressing it with welfare reforms to support those disengaged from ...
Scotland Act 1998: Section 35 Power
17 January 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill
17 January 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
COP26
02 November 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asked what steps are being taken to help international partners deliver on the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forests and Land Use commitments, and pressed for more action from the UK government in t...
Chinese Consul General: Manchester Protest
20 October 2022
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Miscarriage Leave
06 July 2022
General Debate
Led by this MP
Proposes a Bill to give three days’ paid leave for parents experiencing miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy or molar pregnancy before 24 weeks. The current lack of legal right to paid leave in such cases m...
Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
07 June 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Paid Miscarriage Leave
17 March 2022
General Debate
Led by this MP
The motion calls on the Government to introduce paid miscarriage leave, noting that there is no such support for anyone who has experienced a miscarriage before 24 weeks of pregnancy. It highlights th...
Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation
17 March 2022
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
6
PMQs Asked
37
Ministerial Questions Asked
33
House of Commons Debates Involved
5
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
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 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+176% above average
This MP:
37
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+99% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+579% above average
This MP:
33
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-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 Angela Crawley's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.