Angela Rayner
MP for Ashton-under-Lyne
Lab
7 May 2015 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
We agree on defence at 2.5%, but we did not cut the Army to its smallest size since Napoleon's time. The Tories have failed renters, leaseholders and mortgage holders after 14 years in power. Will he call an election as urged by his neighbour?
Context
Defence funding is a key issue with the Conservative party planning to invest in defence at 2.5% of GDP. Labour disagrees with cuts made under previous conservative governments.
Oliver Dowden
No plans from Labour on defence spending despite all bluster; instead, attacks others without taking responsibility. Once said 'You shouldn't wait for police to bang on your door if you did it'. The right hon. lady should follow her own advice.
Assessment
Call for an early election
Criticizing The Questioner'S Past Statements
Personal Attack
Session: PMQs
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People in glass houses should not throw stones; councils across the country face significant funding issues. More than 16,000 families could lose their homes due to Tory policies and mortgage bills are increasing. Will he apologise for these impacts?
Context
Councils are facing financial crises due to the government's austerity programme, with Birmingham City Council losing over £1 billion from its budget. More than 16,000 families face losing their homes following recent fiscal policies.
Oliver Dowden
What the Prime Minister has done since taking office is restore economic stability, with inflation halved to 3%. The plan includes major defence spending increases. Labour refuses to support such plans as they voted to scrap Trident and suggested changing the Army into a peace corps.
Assessment
Apology for negative impacts of policies
Criticizing Opposition'S Past Stances
Attacking Labour'S Defence Policy
Session: PMQs
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Once again, he has not read his own Bill. Their ban on leasehold will not apply to the majority of people. It is like banning non-doms but exempting Tory Prime Ministers. Families are trapped in temporary accommodation and stuck on waiting lists. The Conservative Mayor of Birmingham has used a multi-million pound housing budget to build just 46 social homes in eight years, which is almost as many as in the Chancellor's property portfolio.
Context
The Deputy Prime Minister did not read up on his own Government's Bill regarding leaseholds, which are a rip-off for many families. Labour-controlled Birmingham has raised council tax by 21%.
Oliver Dowden (Deputy Prime Minister)
The contrast between the Conservative party and the Labour party is clear. Andy Street, our brilliant Mayor of the west midlands, has delivered £6.1 billion of investment to improve transport.
Assessment
Did not address housing issues or criticisms about no-fault evictions
Changed Subject To Conservative Mayors' Achievements
Session: PMQs
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The Deputy Prime Minister's proposed ban on new leaseholds applies only to houses but the majority of leaseholds are in flats. What is the point of a ban if it does not apply to flats?
Context
The Government's proposed ban on new leaseholds applies only to houses, not flats. The majority of leaseholds are in flats.
Oliver Dowden (Deputy Prime Minister)
The right hon. Lady talks about legislation introduced by this Government that the Labour party failed to introduce when in office. It is this Government who have brought social housing waiting lists down and delivered more affordable homes than Labour did.
Assessment
Did not address why the ban does not apply to flats
Changed Subject To Previous Achievements
Session: PMQs
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This week, the Housing Minister said that there is no solid date for banning no-fault evictions. The Secretary of State says it will not happen before an election. If the Deputy Prime Minister can give us a date, will he name it now?
Context
The Deputy Prime Minister delayed justice for Natalie, who has been served with two no-fault eviction notices in 18 months. The Housing Minister said there is no solid date for banning no-fault evictions.
Oliver Dowden (Deputy Prime Minister)
Today is the day that the House will vote on it. We are confident in delivering this commitment.
Session: PMQs
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Natalie from Brighton has been served with two no-fault eviction notices in 18 months. She joins nearly a million families at risk of homelessness due to the Deputy Prime Minister's failure to ban this cruel practice. Instead of obsessing over my house, when will he get a grip and show the same obsession with ending no-fault evictions?
Context
A constituent, Natalie, has been served with two no-fault eviction notices in 18 months, joining nearly a million families at risk of homelessness due to the Deputy Prime Minister's failure to ban this practice.
Oliver Dowden (Deputy Prime Minister)
We will be voting on exactly that matter later today. This is the Conservative Government taking action.
Session: PMQs
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There are 55,000 more children without a permanent address today compared with when the Tories took office 13 years ago. How can you be so complacent in the face of this increase in child homelessness and poverty?
Context
The questioner references a significant increase in child homelessness, with 55,000 more children without permanent addresses since the Conservative government took office 13 years ago. She also mentions Labour's focus on tackling child poverty compared to the current government.
Oliver Dowden
This Government has lifted 400,000 children out of poverty. The current high mortgage rates and inflation are driven by factors such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine and post-covid supply chain issues.
Assessment
The increase in child homelessness was not directly addressed
Deflection
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What hope has he got of solving it? Let me try a simpler question: how many kids do not have a permanent address today compared with when Labour left office in 2010?
Context
The right hon. Gentleman does not acknowledge that child poverty is rising, let alone explain why. Angela Rayner is questioning Oliver Dowden about the number of kids without a permanent address compared to when Labour left office in 2010.
Oliver Dowden
We can exchange all these numbers across the Dispatch Boxes, but these are the numbers that matter. There are 1.7 million fewer people in absolute poverty under this Government, 400,000 fewer children, 200,000 fewer pensioners and 1 million fewer people of working age.
Session: PMQs
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Once again, the right hon. Gentleman talks about balancing the books. His party crashed the economy and he seems oblivious to what it is like for working people in this country at the moment. New research shows that 400,000 more primary school-age children are growing up in poverty since his Government came to office. Why does he think that is?
Context
New research shows that 400,000 more primary school-age children are growing up in poverty since the current government came to office. Angela Rayner is questioning Oliver Dowden about this issue.
Oliver Dowden
I will take absolutely no lectures whatsoever from the Labour party about how we help children in the most need. It is record investment from this Government in education—£2 billion more this year, £2 billion next year—which is giving those very children the best possible start in life.
Session: PMQs
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Rising bills, soaring mortgages and plummeting real wages are pushing more and more families to the brink. Those already struggling are being hit hardest by the Tory mortgage bombshell and rising food costs. How many primary school children have been pushed into poverty since his Government took power?
Context
The Children's Commissioner warned the other Prime Minister about peddling false narratives on child poverty. Angela Rayner is questioning Oliver Dowden about rising bills, soaring mortgages, and plummeting real wages pushing more families to the brink.
Oliver Dowden
I say to the right hon. Lady that it was this Conservative party, not the Labour party, that extended free school meals to all five, six and seven-year-olds—something the Labour party failed to do—and that sits alongside many measures we are taking to help people with the cost of living.
Session: PMQs
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I think the right hon. Gentleman is taking lessons from the former Prime Minister on telling the facts. The last Labour Government worked hard to dramatically reduce the number of children in temporary accommodation, but under the Tories the number of homeless children has risen by 75%. I am proud of our record on tackling child poverty. Does the right hon. Gentleman feel ashamed of his?
Context
The number of homeless children has risen by 75% under the current government, according to recent figures. Angela Rayner is questioning Oliver Dowden about this issue.
Oliver Dowden
I will take no lectures from the Labour party on home ownership. My parents would not have been able to buy their own home if it were not for Margaret Thatcher and the reforms introduced by her Government, and this Government are building on those with record house building.
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Why is it that in Tory Britain, tens of thousands of families are facing repossession, negative equity and homelessness? Can the Deputy Prime Minister tell us, 27 years later, why I am having to ask the same question?
Context
John Prescott asked why tens of thousands of families are facing repossession, negative equity, and homelessness under the current government. Angela Rayner is questioning Oliver Dowden about the same issue.
Oliver Dowden
Clearly, the right hon. Lady did not listen to my previous comments. The Prime Minister is at NATO. Of course, that would not be a problem if she had had her way. Her old boss wanted to abandon Ukraine, abolish the Army and withdraw from NATO, and he certainly would not be going to any summit.
Session: PMQs
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Talking about broken promises, house building is set to collapse to its lowest level since the war, rents and mortgages are soaring, home ownership is plummeting and over a million people are trapped waiting for a council house. There is one simple solution to this problem, and everyone knows it, so when will the right hon. Gentleman finally stand up for the national interest instead of the Tory party's interests and build more houses?
Context
The Labour party is concerned about house building collapsing to its lowest level since the war, soaring rents and mortgages, plummeting home ownership, and a million people trapped waiting for council houses.
Oliver Dowden
The right hon. Lady may not have listened to the answer I gave and just moved straight on to the next pre-scripted question, but we have built more houses under this Government than the Labour party. I am afraid it is the same old thing from her: she stacks up the endless job titles, she takes the union cash and she constantly talks Britain down.
Assessment
The questioner's specific ask about when to take action on house building was avoided.
Criticising The Labour Party
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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I asked a question about no-fault evictions; I was very clear on what the Labour party would do, but I cannot see us getting through a single one of these encounters without the Deputy Prime Minister blaming the Opposition for his Government's own record. When asked yesterday about the record low number of council houses being built, the Housing Minister said she did not recognise that statistic. When asked about support for people in temporary accommodation, she said it was not her brief—the brief of the Housing Minister. If council housing is not her responsibility, whose is it?
Context
The Labour party is concerned about the low number of council houses being built and the lack of support for people in temporary accommodation.
Oliver Dowden
The Labour party may have failed to notice that it is actually under this Government that more council houses have been built than when they were in office; it is under this party that we have record levels of housing being built. We stand very proudly on the record of this Government.
Assessment
The questioner's specific ask about who has responsibility if council housing is not the Housing Minister's responsibility was avoided.
Blaming The Opposition
Session: PMQs
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Jessica and her four children from Plymouth were evicted from their home in April. They are temporarily living with Jessica's mother in a cramped house where the two eldest children are sleeping on blow-up beds in the front room, surrounded by their belongings—hardly the decent, secure life that the right hon. Gentleman's Government promised. Do families like Jessica's not deserve better?
Context
Jessica and her four children were evicted, living in cramped conditions with limited space for sleeping.
Oliver Dowden
I will tell the right hon. Lady what we are doing for families like Jessica's: we are increasing the national living wage. It was the Conservative party that introduced the national living wage, not the Labour party. It is this party that has doubled—the personal allowance, cutting taxes for those people, and it is this party that has lifted a million people out of unemployment.
Assessment
Specific support for Jessica's family
Mentioned National Living Wage
Discussed Tax Cuts
Session: PMQs
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Will he tell us if the Prime Minister has the spine now to stand up to the vested interests in his own party and finally deliver its promise to ban no-fault evictions?
Context
No-fault evictions have increased, with no ban in sight despite government promises.
Oliver Dowden
I do not think the Prime Minister is going to take any lectures on weakness from the Labour party. The last time the leader of the Labour party tried to sack the right hon. Lady, she walked out with a promotion. We will continue to stand behind renters and to support them.
Assessment
Prime Minister's stance on banning no-fault evictions
Mentioned Labour Reshuffle
Discussed Promotion Of The Right Hon. Lady
Session: PMQs
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Buy-to-let properties are missing out on support. No-fault evictions are up by 116% this year. Are buy-to-let properties included in the mortgage support package—yes or no?
Context
Renter security has been compromised with higher mortgage costs impacting them directly, given most renters live in homes with buy-to-let mortgages.
Oliver Dowden
Under this Government, thanks to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, we have introduced legislation for the first time to support renters and to give them greater security of tenure. Of course, the Chancellor will take all necessary measures to stand behind mortgage holders and take necessary measures for renters.
Assessment
Specific inclusion of buy-to-let properties not detailed
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Families are sick with worry about the cost of the Tory mortgage bombshell. Do the Tories still claim to be the party of home ownership? I am glad to see the right hon. Gentleman here today. I think I am right in saying that I have the pleasure again next week—two weeks on the trot.
Context
13 years of Conservative policies have left homeowners concerned about mortgage costs, with many families facing mortgage deal expirations.
Oliver Dowden
May I begin by associating myself with the right hon. Lady's remarks about Lord Bob Kerslake? I knew him from my time in Downing Street. He was a stalwart public servant and he will be missed by many on both sides of this House. It may come as a surprise to the right hon. Lady, but some leaders trust their deputies to stand in for them. When it comes to mortgage rates, I support the independence of the Bank of England in taking the necessary measures to control inflation. Just ask the International Monetary Fund what we have done to support them. It has said that we have taken “decisive and responsible action” to bring down inflation and we will continue to do so.
Assessment
Question about Tory impact on mortgage costs
Discussed Imf Support For Government Actions
Mentioned Leaders' Trust In Deputies
Session: PMQs
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Britain cannot afford any more of the Conservatives. Only a quarter of billions of pounds of taxpayers' money lost to fraud is expected to be clawed back. If the Government cannot get that public money back, they cannot be trusted with anything else. The Public Accounts Committee warned this could happen again because Ministers are in denial. How can lessons be learned if truth isn't admitted?
Context
The question addresses concerns about government inefficiency in recovering taxpayer money lost to fraud.
Oliver Dowden
We are putting more resources into tackling fraud and error, making real progress. While working to drive down inflation and energy bills, the Labour party is adopting policies that force us to import foreign oil and gas. The GMB union said these policies have a lack of intellectual rigour.
Assessment
Details on how government will learn from past fraud recovery mistakes were not provided
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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There we have it: thousands of children missing; policy “under review” still. Let me ask the Deputy Prime Minister about something else that has gone missing. The Public Accounts Committee this week revealed that Government fraud has increased fourfold, with Ministers overseeing the loss of £21 billion of taxpayers' money in the last two years. Can he tell us how much of our money they expect to recover?
Context
The Public Accounts Committee revealed that Government fraud has increased fourfold, with Ministers overseeing the loss of £21 billion of taxpayers' money in the last two years.
Oliver Dowden
We are working tirelessly to recover those funds, and we have made huge progress already. The Labour party talks about good use of taxpayers' money, but what do we have from it? Plans for an unfunded, £28 billion spending spree.
Session: PMQs
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I know that for the last couple of years the Deputy Prime Minister has been trying to prep Prime Ministers for PMQs, but these punchlines are dire—he really needs to go back to school himself. Speaking of school, thousands of children are missing from school; absence has nearly doubled since before the pandemic. The Prime Minister says that he has maxed out on his support for school pupils, but why did the Government abandon their plans for a register of missing children?
Context
The number of children missing from school has nearly doubled since before the pandemic, raising concerns about support for pupils.
Oliver Dowden
On the specifics of the right hon. Lady's question, that is not the case: we continue to keep the policy under review. I am very proud of this Government's record on funding and support for schools: £4 billion more this year, £4 billion next year.
Session: PMQs
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All we are asking for is what the covid inquiry has asked for. Across the world, covid inquiries are well under way, while this Government hide information and shell out public money on legal bills for the Uxbridge One—the former Prime Minister is now demanding another £1 million to pay for his new lawyers. I know that the Deputy Prime Minister and his former boss have fallen out, and maybe he wants to patch things up, but can he seriously say that that is a good use of taxpayers' money?
Context
The Government has been criticised for taking the covid inquiry to court, incurring significant costs.
Oliver Dowden
If we want to talk about relationships between different people, I do not think that we need to search the right hon. Lady's WhatsApp messages to know that there is no communication between her and the leader of her party. I will happily stand up for our record on covid.
Session: PMQs
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The Deputy Prime Minister pretends that it is complicated, but it is simple: the Government set up the inquiry to get to the truth, then blocked that inquiry from getting the information that it asked for, and now they are taking it to court. I know that he considers himself a man of the people, so using his vast knowledge of working-class Britain, does he think that working people will thank him for spending hundreds of thousands of pounds of their money on loophole lawyers so that the Government can obstruct the covid inquiry?
Context
The Government has faced criticism for taking the covid inquiry to court, incurring significant costs, while other countries have established similar inquiries without such issues.
Oliver Dowden
We will provide the inquiry with each and every document related to covid, including all internal discussions in any form, as requested, while, crucially, protecting what is wholly and unambiguously irrelevant. Essentially, the right hon. Lady is calling for years' worth of documents and messages between named individuals to be in scope.
Assessment
The questioner also asked about the cost of legal bills but the answer did not address this directly.
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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Speaking of the last election, the Tory manifesto promised to end the abuse of the judicial review. How is it going?
Context
The Government promised to end the abuse of judicial reviews but has faced criticism for blocking information from being released to the independent covid inquiry.
Oliver Dowden
I welcome the much shorter question from the right hon. Lady. Let me remind her of a few facts about the covid inquiry. We set it up, we have provided it with more than 55,000 documents so far, and we have given it all the financial resources it needs so that we can learn the lessons from the pandemic.
Assessment
The questioner was also asking about Labour's handling of inquiries in Wales but the answer focused only on the government's actions regarding the inquiry.
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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After 13 years of Tory rule, the number of children living in poverty has increased. The Tories are focusing on vested interests and not addressing real problems. When will they stop blaming others and acknowledge their failures?
Context
The Tory government is criticised for reversing Labour's progress on reducing child poverty, leading to a rise in child poverty rates.
Oliver Dowden
I say to the right hon. Lady that this comprehensive school boy will not take any lectures from the Opposition party about the lives of working people.
Assessment
Acknowledging Tory failures
Personal Attack
Dismissive Tone
Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about the increase in child poverty under the Tories since they abolished the child poverty unit and target. Can he tell us what level of poverty he considers acceptable?
Context
Sir Michael Marmot's review stated that child poverty is worsening under the current government, with over a quarter of children living in poverty last year. The Labour Government had aimed to reduce child poverty by one million.
Oliver Dowden
I will proudly defend our record in office: crime down 50%; near record levels of employment; and a record minimum wage. What is the Labour party's record? Four general election defeats; 30 promises already broken; and one leader who let antisemitism run wild.
Assessment
Definition of acceptable child poverty level
Redirecting To Opposition'S Record
Personal Attack
Session: PMQs
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Even before the pandemic waiting lists were going up, so it does not wash that this Government, after 13 years in power, are blaming everybody but themselves for what people are having to put up with. The right hon. Gentleman appears to be claiming that 11,000 patients waiting more than 18 months is an achievement. The last Labour Government reduced waiting times from 18 months to 18 weeks. He can come back to me when he has achieved that. The fact is that waiting lists are longer than when the Prime Minister made his pledge five months ago. The number of people in England waiting to start hospital treatment is the highest since records began—7.3 million patients left waiting.
I know the Prime Minister has his own private GP, so maybe he does not appreciate the urgency, but he has left people like my constituent Carol waiting over a year for an urgent appointment, moved from waiting list to waiting list, with appointments cancelled again and again. If not now, when will waiting lists—
I know the Prime Minister has his own private GP, so maybe he does not appreciate the urgency, but he has left people like my constituent Carol waiting over a year for an urgent appointment, moved from waiting list to waiting list, with appointments cancelled again and again. If not now, when will waiting lists—
Context
Even before the pandemic, waiting lists were going up. The Prime Minister has his own private GP and does not seem to understand the urgency of reducing NHS waiting times.
Oliver Dowden
I gently say to the right hon. Lady, if she cares that much about access to our healthcare, why does she oppose our minimum service levels? They will provide emergency services with vital cover during healthcare strikes. Does she not think that vulnerable patients deserve that level of care, or is she too weak to stand up to her union paymasters?
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not address when NHS waiting lists would be reduced.
Redirects To Opposing Stance
Session: PMQs
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The reality is that after 13 years of Tory rule, they are still lurching from crisis to crisis and wallowing in their own mess. They cannot solve the crisis, because they are the crisis. The right hon. Member should take more note of what is happening at his conferences in his party before trying to make up what is happening in mine.
The Prime Minister pledged that by March NHS waiting lists would fall. It is now May. Can the Deputy Prime Minister tell us whether, since the Prime Minister made that pledge, the number of people on waiting lists is higher or lower?
The Prime Minister pledged that by March NHS waiting lists would fall. It is now May. Can the Deputy Prime Minister tell us whether, since the Prime Minister made that pledge, the number of people on waiting lists is higher or lower?
Context
The Prime Minister pledged that by March NHS waiting lists would fall. It is now May and the number of people on waiting lists has not decreased.
Oliver Dowden
We are making good progress, for example with two-year waiting lists, but the right hon. Lady seems to forget a crucial fact. The United Kingdom experienced an unprecedented pandemic. Right before covid, GP satisfaction was high, delayed discharges were halved and ambulance targets were being met. She knows that right now in Labour-run Wales exactly the same challenges are being faced. The difference between us is that on the Government side of the House we have a plan to fix it, while she is too busy playing petty politics.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not directly answer whether NHS waiting lists were higher or lower since the pledge was made.
Redirects To Pandemic Impacts
Session: PMQs
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It is absolutely amazing that while the Labour party is preparing to govern with a Labour majority, the right hon. Gentleman's party is starting to prepare for Opposition. This week, at the National Conservative conference, the hon. Member for Devizes (Danny Kruger) blamed the country's problems on a “new religion”. He even hit out at the “dystopian fantasy of John Lennon”. The hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge (Miriam Cates) identified falling birthing rates as the “overarching threat” to the UK. She criticised “woke” teaching for “destroying…children's souls”, causing self-harm and suicide among young people. And the right hon. Member for North East Somerset (Mr Rees-Mogg) really let the cat out of the bag when he said:
“Parties that try and gerrymander end up finding their clever schemes come back to bite them, as dare I say we found when insisting on voter ID”.
The Deputy Prime Minister, while working in No.10, said he had to listen to the radio every morning to find out what was really going on in the country. Apparently, he was “surprised” on a daily basis by what he learned and most of his time was spent on “day-to-day crisis management”. Eleven years on, nothing has changed.
“Parties that try and gerrymander end up finding their clever schemes come back to bite them, as dare I say we found when insisting on voter ID”.
The Deputy Prime Minister, while working in No.10, said he had to listen to the radio every morning to find out what was really going on in the country. Apparently, he was “surprised” on a daily basis by what he learned and most of his time was spent on “day-to-day crisis management”. Eleven years on, nothing has changed.
Context
The hon. Member for Devizes blamed the country's problems on a “new religion”. The hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge criticised “woke” teaching for causing self-harm and suicide among young people. The right hon. Member for North East Somerset identified voter ID as contributing to gerrymandering.
Oliver Dowden
I am not quite sure what the question was there. If the right hon. Lady wants to talk about that sort of thing, we all know what is going on with her and her leader. It is all lovey-dovey on the surface. They turn it on for the cameras, but as soon as they are off it is a different story—they are at each other's throats. They are the Phil and Holly of British politics.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not address whether statements made at the Conservative party conference accurately reflect current issues in the country.
Criticises Questioner
Session: PMQs
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It is a pleasure to welcome yet another Deputy Prime Minister to the Dispatch Box—the third deputy I have faced in three years. You know what they say: the third time's a charm. I am also pleased to note that the Prime Minister has a working-class friend—finally.
I seem to remember that, after the loss of 300 Conservative seats at last year's local elections, the right hon. Gentleman resigned, saying “someone must take responsibility”. After 1,000 more Conservative councillors have been given the boot by voters, who does he think is responsible now?
I seem to remember that, after the loss of 300 Conservative seats at last year's local elections, the right hon. Gentleman resigned, saying “someone must take responsibility”. After 1,000 more Conservative councillors have been given the boot by voters, who does he think is responsible now?
Context
After losing 300 Conservative seats at last year's local elections, the right hon. Gentleman resigned saying “someone must take responsibility”. After another 1,000 more Conservative councillors have been given the boot by voters, he is asked who should be responsible now.
Oliver Dowden
In the spirit of the right hon. Lady's opening remarks, can I just say it really is a pleasure to see her here today? I was, though, expecting to face the Labour leader's choice for the next Deputy Prime Minister if they win the election, so I am surprised that the Liberal Democrat leader is not taking questions today.
Mr Speaker, you will forgive me if I take the right hon. Lady's predictions with a pinch of salt.
Mr Speaker, you will forgive me if I take the right hon. Lady's predictions with a pinch of salt.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not address who should be responsible for the loss of over 1,300 Conservative seats in local elections.
Redirects To Opposing Party
Session: PMQs
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Not a word of apology, no sense of responsibility and not even a shred of shame. The reality is that while people in Britain feel more and more unsafe, the right hon. Member seems to spend all his time trying to save his own job and none of his time on his actual job. It is not just me who thinks so—the Prime Minister clearly does not trust him to deal with antisocial behaviour, because he has given that job to the Levelling-up Secretary. The way that things are going, and if reports are to be believed, this might be his last Prime Minister's questions, so let us look at the highlights: criminal justice on its knees; the largest court backlog on record; rape victims waiting for justice; and through it all, he managed to rack up 24 formal complaints from his own civil servants. Can he say today: will he walk before he is pushed?
Context
The right hon. Member seems to spend all his time trying to save his own job and none of his time on his actual job, according to the questioner.
Dominic Raab
One thing never changes: the right hon. Lady always comes with her usual bluster and political opportunism. We have delivered new legislation to support victims of crime, including rape, and to protect the public. We have also delivered a plan to stamp out antisocial behaviour and supported families with their energy bills.
Assessment
The question about resignation was not addressed; instead, the answer focused on legislation and support for victims of crime without acknowledging performance issues or addressing complaints.
Changing Subject To Achievements
Session: PMQs
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On his watch, rape survivors are waiting on average more than three years for their cases to come to court. The right hon. Member talked about a 10-week reduction. From three years, 10 weeks is not anything to boast about—three years from the day of the assault to the final day of court. Is it any wonder that from April to September last year, 175 trials for rape and other serious sexual offences had to be dropped because the victim could no longer cope with the delay? When will he apologise to all those women denied justice because of his failure to sort the court backlog?
Context
Rape survivors are waiting on average more than three years for their cases to come to court. From April to September last year, 175 trials for rape and other serious sexual offences had to be dropped due to delay.
Dominic Raab
The right hon. Lady ignores the impact on the court backlog of the pandemic or, indeed, the Criminal Bar Association strike. We have quadrupled funding for victims since 2010—quadrupled the funding provided by the last Labour Government. We launched the 24/7 support line so that when those victims of that appalling crime come forward, they get the support they need. We have increased the number of independent sexual violence advisers to more than 1,000 and we are making sure that women who suffer this appalling crime can give pre-recorded evidence in court. We are doing everything that we can. The rates are coming down and we will keep taking action.
Assessment
The apology requested was not addressed, instead the answer focused on actions taken by the government to support victims without admitting failure or apologizing for the backlog issue.
Session: PMQs
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The right hon. Gentleman says that rape conviction has gone up. What he really means is that 300 women will be raped today while he boasts about an increase of 0.5%. He has not answered my question, because he is too ashamed of the answer: 1.6% of rapists face being charged for their crime—1.6%. Let that sink in. A woman goes through the worst experience of her life. She summons up the courage to relive that horrendous experience to tell the police in detail about her assault, but she only has a 1.6% chance of action being taken. Over 98% of rapists will never see the inside of a courtroom, let alone a prison. And the rest of those brave women? They keep looking over their shoulders and hope the perpetrator does not choose tonight to take their revenge for reporting the incident to the police.
Context
There is concern about the low rape charge rate under the current government.
Dominic Raab
First of all, the conviction rate measured by the Crown Prosecution Service—the leader of the Labour party used to be in charge of the CPS, so he might want to point this out—has gone up. It is now at 69%. We are doing much more to support victims of rape when they come forward.[Official Report, 30 March 2023, Vol. 730, c. 10MC.] [Interruption.] They are talking a good game but, in fact, we have quadrupled funding for victims since 2010.
Assessment
Did not apologize to victims and did not address the low charge rate directly
Personal Attack
Change Of Subject
Session: PMQs
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No one believes that there are more police on the streets and no one feels safer. Neighbourhood policing has gone down, not up. Let us talk about crime. The right hon. Gentleman knows as well as I do that neighbourhood police can help to prevent antisocial behaviour and knife crime, but trusted local police are also crucial to protecting women. Women feel unsafe on Britain's streets, always looking over our shoulder as we hurry to our front door. Can he tell me, under his watch as Justice Secretary, what is the charge rate for rape?
Context
There is concern about the low rape charge rate.
Dominic Raab
I will address all those elements and first of all say that the issue of rape and serious sexual violence against women is one of our top priorities. The right hon. Lady asks what we are doing about it.
Assessment
Did not provide specific charge rate for rape
Acknowledge Importance
Broad Statements
Session: PMQs
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I would like to see the ministerial code introduced and adhered to on the Government Benches, because it is not just the right hon. Gentleman's Department where antisocial behaviour is running out of control. It is happening across the country: police officers disappearing from our streets, replaced by criminals plaguing our towns and leaving people feeling unsafe. The truth is that the Conservatives are missing in action in the fight against crime. Can he tell his constituents and the public why, after 13 years of his party in government, there are now 6,000 fewer neighbourhood police officers on Britain's streets?
Context
There are concerns about the number of neighbourhood police officers.
Dominic Raab
The right hon. Lady really does have a brass neck, because Labour voted against our funding of police recruitment and the 20,000 extra police officers.
Assessment
Did not address why there are fewer neighbourhood police officers
Personal Attack
Blaming Opposition
Session: PMQs
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This week, the Government announced their so-called antisocial behaviour policy. It has only taken 13 years. Look, I will give him some credit: the Deputy Prime Minister knows first-hand the misery caused by thugs and their intimidating behaviour, lurking with menace, exploding in fits of rage, creating a culture of fear, and maybe even—I do not know—throwing things. So I ask him: under his new antisocial behaviour policy, does he think more bullies will be brought to justice?
Context
The government announced an antisocial behaviour policy, but it has faced criticism.
Dominic Raab
I can reassure the House that I have never called anyone scum. [Hon. Members: “More!”] If the right hon. Lady was serious about standing up for communities and people who suffer from the scourge of antisocial behaviour, she would back our plan to deal more swiftly with these issues, make sure we ban drugs beyond the conventional ones and give police the powers they need.
Assessment
Did not directly address whether bullies will be brought to justice under the new policy
Personal Attack
Change Of Subject
Session: PMQs
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The Deputy Prime Minister knows that civil servants are liars, suggesting no ethics or integrity. When will the Government appoint an independent ethics adviser?
Context
Deputy Prime Minister faces ongoing issues including a Cabinet Minister resigning with his good wishes, Home Secretary breaching the ministerial code, and being reportedly banned from meeting junior staff without supervision.
Dominic Raab
The recruitment of the new ethics adviser is already under way and taking place at pace.
Assessment
Did not provide any specific timeline or details on the appointment of an independent ethics adviser.
The Recruitment Of The New Ethics Adviser Is Already Under Way
Session: PMQs
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The Deputy Prime Minister knows that his behaviour was unacceptable, so what is he still doing here? When will the Government appoint an independent ethics adviser?
Context
Deputy Prime Minister faces multiple allegations, including a Cabinet Minister resigning over his behaviour, another breaching the ministerial code, and junior staff being too scared to enter his office.
Dominic Raab
The recruitment of the new ethics adviser is already under way and taking place at pace. The British people want a Government who can deal with the real challenges, and Labour Members are not up to it.
Assessment
Did not provide any specific timeline or details on the appointment of an independent ethics adviser.
The Recruitment Of The New Ethics Adviser Is Already Under Way
Session: PMQs
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After days of dodging, the Deputy Prime Minister finally acknowledged formal bullying complaints. It's Anti-Bullying Week. Will he apologise?
Context
The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged formal bullying complaints.
Dominic Raab
I received notification this morning and immediately asked the Prime Minister to set up an independent inquiry into the complaints. I am confident that I behaved professionally throughout, but of course I will engage thoroughly.
Assessment
specific ask about apology
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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Non-dom status has not been abolished. The Conservatives would have us believe economic problems are out of their control, but working people pay the price for protecting corporate profits over household incomes. Where does the UK rank in the OECD's growth league table?
Context
The UK is part of the OECD's two-year growth league table.
Dominic Raab
Unemployment remains at a 50-year low, half the level left by Labour. The IMF says we will have the strongest G7 growth.
Assessment
specific ask about OECD ranking
Too Early To Say
Session: PMQs
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While international allies are tackling the use of tax havens by multinationals, this Government are dragging their feet. The upcoming Budget will impact families across Britain. Does the Deputy Prime Minister accept that every pound hidden in tax havens is a pound lost from working families' pockets?
Context
The G20 is an opportunity to tackle economic issues, including multinational companies using tax havens.
Dominic Raab
We are making sure people come to this country to create jobs and generate tax revenue. The Prime Minister led the charge with the G7 presidency on international minimum corporate tax rules, reducing the tax gap under this Government compared to Labour.
Assessment
specific ask about hiding profits in tax havens
We Are Committed To
Working On It
Session: PMQs
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Russia is launching missile attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure while leaders are meeting. The Government have requested establishing the facts to avoid speculation regarding an incident in Poland last night. Does the Deputy Prime Minister agree that Putin's actions show contempt for international order?
Context
Ukraine faces missile attacks from Russia while world leaders meet.
Dominic Raab
I entirely agree with what she said. President Putin started this war and whatever determination is made regarding yesterday's events, they result from the unlawful aggression perpetrated by the Russian Government.
Session: PMQs
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I agree that the Government has been exceptional in terms of negative outcomes such as stagnant wages and rising poverty. How many more tax rises, family-driven poverty cases, and manifesto pledges will be broken before action?
Context
The question follows criticism of the Prime Minister's statement about exceptional performance which is perceived negatively by Labour, highlighting issues like stagnant wages, poverty increase, broken promises.
Dominic Raab
I cannot help thinking the right hon. Lady is auditioning for leadership and has support from other Labour Members. We are implementing policies to grow the economy, helping constituents like my hon. Friend David Morris with shovel-ready plans.
Assessment
The questioner's critique of the government's performance and future direction was not directly addressed by providing concrete figures or actions for improvement.
I Cannot Help Thinking That The Right Hon. Lady Is Auditioning For Leadership Contest On Her Side.
Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about the Government acting in a militant way by focusing on getting funds from donors rather than negotiating solutions. The Deputy Prime Minister talks about trains but cannot address the problems due to his Transport Secretary's failures.
Context
The question arises from dissatisfaction with the Conservative party's approach to addressing current issues, particularly their focus on funding for armed forces instead of dealing with a perceived crisis.
Dominic Raab
There is a £24 billion increase for our armed forces. Spending on the armed forces is rising to 2.3% of GDP—making us the largest military spender in Europe. The Deputy Prime Minister claims no lessons can be taken from the Labour Party when it comes to national security.
Assessment
The questioner's critique of the government's handling of crises and focus on donor funds was not addressed directly by providing facts or figures about addressing such issues.
Frankly, We Will Take No Lessons From You When It Comes To Security.
Session: PMQs
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The Deputy Prime Minister pretends to empathise with those struggling with the Tory cost of living crisis, when he himself once said that food bank users are not in poverty, but simply have “a cashflow problem”. He does not; he has spent more than £1 million in nine months on private jets. It shows how out of touch this Government are, but at this rate, by 2030, a million more people will be using food banks. How many more working people will be pushed into poverty by his Prime Minister before he says enough is enough?
Context
The Deputy Prime Minister's use of private jets is seen as out of touch with the public during a time when many people are struggling due to high living costs.
Dominic Raab
If the Labour party and the right hon. Lady want to help working people, they should be clear in standing up against these militant, reckless strikes by the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers. The right hon. Lady has flip-flopped all over the place when it comes to these strikes.
Assessment
The answer changed subject entirely to discuss Labour's stance on industrial action instead of addressing issues related to poverty or use of private jets.
Session: PMQs
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I would revel in the opportunity for the people of this country to have more than just by-elections to show what they think of this Government. Call a general election, and see where the people are. The Deputy Prime Minister is a man who once said that high levels of government taxation were “hurting UK competitiveness”. Now, he is backing the Prime Minister, who wants to put taxes up 15 times. At this rate, working people will be paying £500 billion more in tax by 2030. How high does he think the burden on working people should get before he says enough is enough?
Context
The Deputy Prime Minister once stated that high levels of government taxation were hurting UK competitiveness. The question is about the contradiction between this statement and current Government policies.
Dominic Raab
We are the ones helping working people with a tax cut of £330, with support for those on the lowest incomes, with the £650 support for 8 million people on the lowest incomes and with, frankly, record levels of investment coming into this country, from the £1 billion by Moderna for vaccines to the highest level of tech investment in Europe, according to Atomico. We are the ones with the plan for low unemployment and a high-wage, high-skill economy.
Assessment
The answer shifted focus to economic growth and investments rather than addressing the contradiction or future tax rises.
Session: PMQs
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Britain cannot stomach this Prime Minister for another eight years. His own Back Benchers cannot stomach him for another eight minutes. If they continue to prop him up, I doubt the voters will stomach him for even eight seconds at the ballot box. Now, let us imagine that the Prime Minister is still clinging on into the 2030s. Under this high-tax, low-growth Tory Government, at this rate by 2030 the British public will have endured 55 tax rises. How many more tax rises will this Government inflict on working families before the Deputy Prime Minister says enough is enough?
Context
The question arises from concerns that the Government's high-tax, low-growth policies will lead to further tax increases in the future.
Dominic Raab
I think the right hon. Lady was right the first time. I will tell the House what we are doing: we have near-record levels of youth employment and 3.8% unemployment; we are cutting taxes next month on national insurance by £330 million; and we are delivering for families through the difficult times with the cost of living. What about the Labour party? We heard yesterday what its plan is: its plan is no plan.
Assessment
The answer changed subject entirely to discuss youth employment, tax cuts, and critique of the Labour Party's policy instead of addressing future tax rises.
Session: PMQs
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I share with the Deputy Prime Minister his deepest condolences and his personal experiences as we mourn the loss of Dame Deborah James. I also think of the family of Zara Aleena, who was tragically murdered this week on the streets of Ilford. Last week the Government lost two by-elections in one day, for the first time in three decades. The Prime Minister has fled the country and left the Deputy Prime Minister to carry the can. The people of Wakefield and Tiverton held their own vote of no confidence. Does the Deputy Prime Minister think the Cabinet will prop up the Prime Minister until 2030?
Context
The Government lost two by-elections on the same day for the first time in three decades, indicating a significant decline in public support.
Dominic Raab
I thank the right hon. Lady, and I gently point out to her that we want this Prime Minister to go on a lot longer than she wants the leader of the Labour party to go on. We have a working majority of 75. We are focusing on delivering for the British people. Record low unemployment would not have happened if we had listened to the Labour party. We have more policing and tougher sentencing enforced this week through the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022. She voted against both; so did the Labour party.
Assessment
The answer changed subject entirely by focusing on record low unemployment and voting records instead of addressing whether the Cabinet will support the Prime Minister until 2030.
Session: PMQs
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It was very good to see my right hon. Friend visiting the International Criminal Court earlier this week, but it has enduring difficulties with funding. Last year, it had a $40 million shortfall in its budget because some participating states failed to meet their annual contribution. The International Criminal Court is only as good as the sum of its parts, so what steps can the Government take to secure contingency funding to ensure that one day Russian military commanders in Ukraine can expect to stand trial for war crimes that they have committed?
Context
The International Criminal Court is facing a $40 million shortfall in its budget due to some participating states failing to meet their annual contributions. This affects its ability to prosecute war crimes.
Dominic Raab
My hon. Friend is bang on. The Assembly of States Parties is looking at the arrears. I was in The Hague on Monday speaking to the Prosecutor and the President of the Court. We will be coming forward with a voluntary package of financial and technical support because now, as it looks at the situation in Ukraine, we want—and I think the whole House would want—Putin and his commanders to know that if they continue with war crimes in Ukraine, they will end up not just in the dock of a court, but behind bars.
Session: PMQs
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There is a war in Europe. There is a fuel energy crisis in Britain. Democracy is at risk. We must support the courageous efforts of President Zelensky and the Ukrainian people. These uncertain times require leadership with integrity, a leader who works with the security services, can be trusted to say the right thing for British diplomacy, and provides security for the British people. Instead, we have this sorry excuse of a Government sat before us. They hike tax on 27 million working people, while the super-rich increase their wealth. They watch energy prices rise by over 50% while companies enjoy profits they did not even expect. They cavort with Russian oligarchs in luxury villas while neglecting the security of the British people. Remember, they partied while the country was in lockdown and unable to see their dying loved ones. Can the Deputy Prime Minister look the British people in the eye and really say that this Government are doing their best in their interests?
Context
The UK faces a fuel energy crisis, and the government has been accused of reliance on foreign oil from dictators. The Prime Minister recently visited Saudi Arabia to seek financial support.
Dominic Raab
Mr Speaker, I will tell you what this Government and this Prime Minister have done: 1,000 Russian individuals sanctioned with a combined wealth of $45 billion; the impact of the sanctions and the diplomatic effort that this Foreign Secretary and this Prime Minister have led; the rouble plummeting; the Russian stock market record lows; and interest rates doubled. We have also shown the big-hearted spirit of this Government, and indeed this nation, with 5,500 visas granted to Ukrainians to come here, and the humanitarian route, which has now got 100,000 sponsors applying to take Ukrainian families into their homes. While the right hon. Lady is in her social media echo chamber, that is what this Government are doing.
Assessment
Did not directly address whether the government's actions meet energy security needs or provide economic fairness for all citizens.
Echo Chamber
Generalized Praise Of Government
Session: PMQs
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Roll on a general election. Sadiq Khan has been building a better London for everyone. If the right hon. Gentleman wants more evidence of Mayors working, he should look up north: Tracy Brabin, Steve Rotheram and Andy Burnham have been bringing transport services back under public control, giving better value for money. In the Tees Valley, we see the opposite. The review into Lord Houchen's mishandling of Teesworks found “the principles of spending public money are not being consistently observed.” So why will the Secretary of State not give the National Audit Office the chance to investigate?
Context
There is a review of Lord Houchen's mishandling of Teesworks that found the principles of spending public money are not being consistently observed. The MP seeks to understand why an investigation by the National Audit Office was not given.
Michael Gove
I am sure the right hon. Lady is very, very keen that all sorts of matters are investigated properly by independent figures who can be trusted, but in the Tees Valley Ben Houchen has done more than any other Metro Mayor to bring jobs and investment into his region. The thousands of jobs created in Teesworks stand in stark contrast to Labour's failure, from London to Liverpool, to bring in the jobs required. Andy Street, I should reinforce, is the single most successful Mayor in the country. That is why both Andy and Ben will be re-elected on 2 May, alongside Conservative Mayors in York and North Yorkshire, the East Midlands and, of course, London.
Session: Metro Mayors Local Economies
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Despite that love-in, as the Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street has over-promised and under-delivered. Almost 70% of devolved housing funds have not been used, and he has done nothing to tackle rogue landlords. The mayoral model can work, and Sadiq Khan's affordable housebuilding in London is evidence of that. When did the Secretary of State last meet Andy Street, and did he raise those failures with him?
Context
Andy Street, the Mayor of West Midlands, has over-promised and under-delivered according to Labour. The MP highlights unspent devolved housing funds and lack of action on rogue landlords as issues. She seeks confirmation if these matters were raised in meetings.
Michael Gove
I talk to Andy Street constantly because he is a model of what a strong Mayor should be. The right hon. Lady talks about housing. There are housing targets set at a regional level—which Mayor missed them by most? Sadiq Khan in London. Which Mayor has exceeded those targets? Andy Street in the west midlands. Sadiq Khan has failed on housing, failed on crime and failed on transport, and he will be kicked out on 2 May.
Session: Metro Mayors Local Economies
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Four years have passed since the Government first promised to end section 21 evictions, and now 70,000 children are coming home from school each night to sleep in temporary accommodation. So I ask the Minister how many more children must face eviction before she meets the promise?
Context
The MP criticized the government's failure to meet their promise on ending section 21 evictions.
Felicity Buchan
We are absolutely committed to repealing section 21—there is no question about that. We have a very holistic approach: building more housing, building more affordable homes.
Session: Rough Sleeping and Homelessness
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Public service workers and local leaders across the country are working incredibly hard to improve their local areas and provide vital services. Rather than the begging bowl culture that makes them bid for money, will the Minister take forward Labour's commitment for a long-term, more secure funding settlement to allow them to plan for the future?
Context
The MP advocates for a long-term, secure funding settlement to allow public service workers and leaders to plan effectively without having to constantly bid for funds.
Simon Hoare
I am intrigued by what the right hon. Lady proffers to the House. Only a few weeks ago, in the debate on the local government finance settlement—none of her colleagues apart from the hon. Member for York Central (Rachael Maskell), the hon. Member for Sheffield South East (Mr Betts), who chairs the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee, and those on the Front Bench could be bothered to turn up and speak on it—the hon. Member for Blaydon (Liz Twist) said: “As I will come on to say shortly, we will have a review to look at the long-term plans.”
Session: Local Government Finance Potholes
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Why should Scots be happy with the tiny sliver of Westminster levelling-up funding, when Westminster denied Scotland a share of the far greater opportunity of EU development funding?
Context
The EU has provided greater funding support to economically deprived communities in Scotland compared to the UK Government.
Jacob Young
I completely reject her assertion. We have invested £212 million in Scotland through the UK shared prosperity fund, £465 million through the levelling-up fund, and £18.3 million through the community renewal fund.
Session: Levelling-up Funding Economically Deprived Communities
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Will the country suffer another final year of failure, or will they now listen to proposals for reforming planning, reinstating housing targets, and getting Britain building again?
Context
The Minister dismisses evidence of people being worse off.
Jacob Young
The Labour party has bankrupted Birmingham, and it would bankrupt Britain. We have rolled out gigabit broadband, introduced educational investment in areas, opened new freeports, increased the national living wage, recruited more police officers, funded regeneration and community ownership, and devolved power to local Mayors.
Session: Levelling-up Funding Economically Deprived Communities
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In 2019, a Tory Prime Minister promised to ban no-fault evictions. Since then, households have been put at risk of homelessness because of a section 21 notice nearly 78,000 times. In 2017, the fifth predecessor of the Secretary of State pledged action to end leasehold practices but just last year another 207,000 homeowners became stuck in that expensive nightmare. Is he too scared to stand up to his Back Benchers?
Context
The MP is criticising the Government for delays in abolishing no-fault evictions and ending leasehold practices, questioning the effectiveness of proposed reforms.
Jacob Young
I should remind the right hon. Lady that I am not the Secretary of State. Let me also remind her that the Renters (Reform) Bill is the biggest change to the private rented sector in 30 years—longer than I have been alive. We have to ensure that we get this right both for tenants and for the 2.4 million landlords in this country.
Session: Private Rented Sector
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The right hon. Gentleman just comes out with flannel—I think he is auditioning for panto season this afternoon. He can dress it up however he likes, but the truth is that he could not spend this vital funding quickly enough in the middle of a housing crisis. It is clear that the Prime Minister shares his disregard for struggling families. In his hour-long speech in Manchester, the Prime Minister did not mention housing a single time—not once—but the Housing Minister did tell conference that renters are not all weed-smoking gangsters, which I am sure the right hon. Gentleman knows all about, as he mentioned gangsters earlier today. Can the Secretary of State assure us that, despite the tone of those remarks, the Renters (Reform) Bill will not be scrapped before the King's Speech?
Context
The questioner criticises the government for not mentioning housing during a speech, highlighting the Labour party's concern about renters being stigmatised.
Michael Gove
Yes, we are bringing reform to the rental market, but I note that at her own party conference the right hon. Lady shared with the public not just her policies but her recipe for a cocktail called Venom, which apparently contains a bottle of vodka, a bottle of Southern Comfort, 10 Blue WKDs and a litre of orange juice. We know what the real lethal cocktail from the Labour party is: a mix of unfunded spending commitments, massive borrowing, greenbelt development and hypocrisy on housing.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is a pleasure to face the right hon. Gentleman for our first questions. I hope he enjoyed his party conference, cancelling a meat tax that nobody had planned, abolishing seven bins that do not exist and announcing that they would build a series of transport links that already do exist—not so much conference season as panto season. I shall keep my question to a problem that definitely does exist. One million families are waiting for social housing. How can he justify handing back to the Treasury billions of pounds that are desperately needed to tackle the housing crisis?
Context
The questioner refers to the government's decision to return billions of pounds to the Treasury despite a housing crisis where one million families are waiting for social housing.
Michael Gove
It is because we spend our money effectively. The affordable homes programme—the £11.5 billion investment that we are making—will lead, and has led, to investment in social and affordable housing across the country. The right hon. Lady has a challenge when it comes to credibility on social housing. She secured the deputy leadership of her party by saying that the Labour party should be building 100,000 social homes every year, and yet its current target is zero. Why did she retreat?
Session: Topical Questions
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Can he tell me how much of that money has been clawed back?
Context
The MP highlighted a report on fraud costs, equivalent to the entire central Government running costs for health, defence, and policing combined.
Alex Burghart
We have established the Public Sector Fraud Authority to clamp down on fraud. As a former DWP Minister, I assure the right hon. Lady that this Government go after fraud wherever it is found. Every time we find new opportunities for fraud, we come forward with new means of clamping down on them. We are a Government committed to efficiency, which we are delivering. As the right hon. Lady will have heard me say in answer to the first question this morning, the Cabinet Office, in the most recent financial year for which figures are available, delivered £3.4 billion-worth of savings to the British taxpayer. That is work we will continue to do.
Session: Public Spending Value for Money
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Can he give us an official estimate of the total cost of fraud to the UK across all sectors in 2022?
Context
The MP asked for an official estimate of fraud cost across all sectors in the UK in 2022.
Alex Burghart
We are engaged in a constant battle against fraud. We do so with colleagues across Whitehall, and particularly in the Department for Work and Pensions and the Treasury. I look forward to the right hon. Lady's next question.
Session: Public Spending Value for Money
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The only grubbiness that I have seen over the last few years has been about dodgy personal protective equipment contracts. I hope the Deputy Prime Minister will start to get a grip of that, because the local elections last Thursday revealed a lot about not only the British public's rejection of the mess created by the Conservatives over the last 13 years, but the impact of the Government's new voter ID regulations, which caused chaos and confusion at polling stations. Oona Preece, a 93-year-old cancer sufferer, was excluded from voting in the local elections last week.
Context
The MP discusses voter ID regulations causing chaos and confusion at polling stations, citing an incident with a 93-year-old cancer sufferer who was excluded from voting.
Oliver Dowden
Of course, I will look into Oona's case, but I am not quite sure where the right hon. Lady and Labour Members have been, because I did not find any of the scenes that she describes in my constituency and nor did colleagues across the country. It was competently done, and actually it has aligned us with many other countries around the world such as Canada. It is a perfectly sensible reform.
Session: Topical Questions
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First, may I offer my congratulations to the right hon. Gentleman, who is proving that being ginger is no barrier to becoming Deputy Prime Minister? I hope to take his example with me very soon one day, and in the meantime I look forward to facing him at Deputy PMQs to a bigger crowd in the future. I also want to offer my heartfelt commiserations to the right hon. Gentleman, who lost his local Conservative council this week.
Context
The MP mentions local council election results and criticizes the Deputy Prime Minister for losing his local Conservative council.
Oliver Dowden
The right hon. Lady started off so nicely—you never know, one day the Labour party might even allow a woman to lead it. In Hertsmere and nationally it is the same picture: while we in the Conservative party are focusing on delivering for the British people, Labour is working out grubby, dodgy deals with other parties. We are focused on the British people; they are focused on their own political interests.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Secretary of State say today, in no uncertain terms, when Adam Tolley's fact-finding mission is complete, will the Prime Minister's ethics adviser be asked to provide a judgment about whether there has been a breach of the ministerial code by the Deputy Prime Minister?
Context
The question challenges the independence of the inquiry into the Deputy Prime Minister's conduct.
Oliver Dowden
As the right hon. Lady will know, the Prime Minister's ethics adviser is independent. It will be a matter for him to decide whether he wishes to take further action, in consultation with the Prime Minister. We see this time and again from the Labour party. They call on us to have an independent inquiry. As soon as we announce an independent inquiry, they ask us to pre-empt it.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Secretary of State clarify here today, did the Cabinet Office warn the Prime Minister about the conduct of the Deputy Prime Minister before he was reappointed to the Cabinet?
Context
The question concerns reports about the Deputy Prime Minister's conduct and whether there were warnings to the Prime Minister before his reappointment.
Oliver Dowden
The right hon. Lady will know that we have been through this process many times before. I thought the Labour party believed in due process. The due process is that Adam Tolley, a very senior KC, is investigating all aspects of that, and I am not going to pre-empt his report in any way.
Session: Topical Questions
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While we are on the subject of transparency, The Guardian has today revealed that the National Audit Office is due to meet the Cabinet Office this week to obtain details of public money spent on the former Prime Minister's legal fees. The permanent secretary has already admitted a budget of £220,000 could have been exceeded, and the contract, which has already been extended once, could be extended again. Will the Minister publish the details of this arrangement and tell us who approved it and why—or, even better, can the Minister just put a stop to this insulting waste of public money all together?
Context
The National Audit Office is set to meet the Cabinet Office this week for details on public money spent on former PM's legal fees.
Oliver Dowden
The right hon. Lady will know that this was dealt with by the permanent secretary at the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee, and the contract was published on Contracts Finder. It has always been the case that Ministers receive support in respect of their conduct in office after they have left office. That was extended to Ministers in the Conservative party and the Labour party. I will add that it is a good job that we did not extend it to former Leaders of the Opposition given the millions of pounds being spent by the Labour party defending itself against allegations of antisemitism.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last week the independent adviser revealed that the former Minister without Portfolio, the right hon. Member for Stratford-on-Avon (Nadhim Zahawi), submitted his declaration of interests only in the last two weeks, some three months after his appointment and while he was in the eye of the storm. Can the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster tell the House how many other Ministers are yet to submit their declarations and what steps he or the Prime Minister has taken to pursue them, and can he guarantee there are not yet more ministerial conflicts of interest waiting to emerge that he knows about either formally or informally?
Context
An independent adviser revealed that a former Minister did not submit their declaration on time and is now under scrutiny.
Oliver Dowden
I can assure the right hon. Lady that we are upholding high standards of transparency. The ministerial code requires such declarations to be made, and they are policed by the independent adviser, which the Labour party urged us to appoint and we appointed that person. Where there are failures, action is taken immediately, as we saw from the Prime Minister this weekend.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster mentions the Prime Minister's response yesterday. The Prime Minister said he was “shocked” to hear the allegations, but the Government have known for 10 months and have been dodging our questions on the murky contracts because they are in a so-called mediation process. Can the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster tell me today what progress has been made on the mediation? Will he commit to publishing any final settlement, and can he set a firm deadline for how long he is prepared to let this drag on before taking legal action to claw back every single penny of taxpayers' money?
Context
The Government have been involved in a mediation process regarding contracts that were allegedly fast-tracked through VIP lanes.
Oliver Dowden
The right hon. Lady knows we are currently engaged in a mediation process, so it would be wrong for me to comment on the specifics, but we have been very clear that that sort of behaviour is not acceptable. If that is found to have happened, we will not hesitate to take action to recover those moneys.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am here to spread the message that gingers are for life, not just for Christmas—with the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster as well, of course. Christmas came early for those on the VIP fast-track lane to get contracts. Many hon. Members on the Opposition Benches are trying to get to the bottom of that and are very frustrated, as are the public. Billions of pounds were wasted and only those suppliers pushed by Conservative MPs and peers got on that VIP fast-track lane. Why are this Government protecting that fast-track lane and not dealing with it in the Procurement Bill while at the same time telling public sector workers to take a real-terms pay cut? That is galling in the public's eye.
Context
The Government's VIP fast-track lane for contract procurement is perceived as benefiting Conservative MPs and peers, resulting in a waste of public funds.
Oliver Dowden
First, in the spirit of consensus, I welcome the right hon. Lady's jumper and, as a fellow ginger, wholly endorse the sentiments on it. It is not just the jumper that reminds me of Christmas; the repeat question from the Labour party does too. I believe Labour raised it in an urgent question on Tuesday and with the Prime Minister yesterday. I am happy to state again, first, that it was not the case that there was a fast track through: 90% of offers referred through that route were unsuccessful. The high-priority lane was established at a time when many required urgent help, and was subject to proper processes.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I absolutely welcome the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster's comments. I listened to him earlier with regard to the Home Secretary. I am sure he heard last night that the former Minister without Portfolio, the right hon. Member for Rossendale and Darwen (Sir Jake Berry), revealed that the Home Secretary was involved in multiple breaches of the ministerial code, that these were really serious and that the Cabinet Secretary had expressed concern. Perhaps the new Minister can tell us what they were, how will they now be investigated and what action will be taken over them. If the Government had an ethics adviser, does he really think they would have sanctioned the return of this Home Secretary?
Context
The former Minister without Portfolio revealed that the Home Secretary was involved in multiple breaches of the ministerial code. The questioner asks about investigating these issues and whether an ethics adviser would have sanctioned the return of this Home Secretary.
Oliver Dowden
The Home Secretary did accept that she made errors of judgment in her conduct and resigned. The Prime Minister sought assurances to prevent this happening again. Private advice given by the Cabinet Secretary to the PM is not made public. I wonder whether Opposition Members want to discuss the strong record of the Home Secretary.
Session: Topical Questions
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Thank you, Mr Speaker. Let me welcome the newest Ministers who have made it through the revolving door to the Government Front Bench—and may I say that it feels like the Spice Girls versus the Backstreet Boys? When their latest Prime Minister was campaigning in the leadership election—the one before last, that is—he said that reappointing an independent ethics adviser would be one of the first things he would do, but the first things he did were to bring back a Home Secretary a week after she resigned for breaking the ministerial code and an Immigration Minister who admitted that they had acted unlawfully in office. When will there be someone in place to investigate the new Cabinet?
Context
The new Prime Minister promised to reappoint an independent ethics adviser but instead appointed a Home Secretary who had resigned for breaking the ministerial code. The questioner seeks clarity on when an ethics adviser will be in place.
Oliver Dowden
The right hon. Lady is absolutely right to raise the question of the independent adviser. I have discussed it with the Prime Minister and he will make an announcement shortly, with someone in place.
Session: Topical Questions
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I really hope that that “due course” is very quick, because this is an issue of national security, which is obviously of concern to many of our constituents. Let me move on to another very serious issue. Yesterday, our country reached the dark milestone of 200,000 covid deaths, which is a tragedy for our country and all those who have lost loved ones. The Prime Minister delayed the start of the public inquiry into the Government's handling of the pandemic, with the hearings not expected until 2023, making a full inquiry unlikely before the next election. This week, reports suggest that the Government are trying to block evidence to the inquiry, with Ministers fearful that they could be sued for damages and officials apparently making evidence that could be withheld. There can be no hint of a cover-up or excuses for Ministers dodging scrutiny. Does the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster deny those reports that have been put in the press? If not, how can he assure us and the public that the process will be independent?
Context
Rayner questioned the delay in starting a public inquiry into the Government's handling of the pandemic and concerns about evidence being blocked.
Kit Malthouse
The right hon. Lady has her very own brand of toxic, which she attempts to pump into everything that the Government do. [Interruption.] No, no, we cannot conduct debate in this House on the, “When did you stop beating your wife?” questions. This inquiry will be independently chaired and thoroughly conducted.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the new Ministers to their places on the Treasury Bench for what could be their first and last Cabinet Office orals. It is a pleasure to be here with them. Last week, the Prime Minister finally admitted to meeting former KGB agent Alexander Lebedev, a man who was sanctioned by the Canadian Government. This was directly after a top-level NATO meeting and just weeks after a chemical attack by Russian agents on British soil. No officials or security were present. I have written to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster but am yet to receive a reply, so I hope he will answer my questions now. Did the Prime Minister take any papers from the NATO meeting? Was his phone compromised? Why do Foreign Office records show the presence of an unidentified guest? Given his responsibilities for national security and ministerial standards, does the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster believe this was inappropriate conduct by the Prime Minister?
Context
Rayner questioned the PM's meeting with a sanctioned individual shortly after a NATO summit, raising concerns about national security.
Kit Malthouse
I am in receipt of the right hon. Lady's letter. Obviously, a number of those questions have to be answered by No. 10. We will forward it to No. 10 and will be replying in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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Well, that was a way of deflecting from the actual serious question that the Government are not willing to answer because they know there is suspicion about the way in which they handled those contracts. On the topic of protecting the public purse, as we speak this Government are frittering away almost half a million pounds a day on storing personal protective equipment unfit for human use.
Context
The Government is accused of wasting public money on storing unusable personal protective equipment.
Jacob Rees-Mogg
These charges made by the socialists are completely false. They have no bearing on reality and they completely ignore what was the requirement two years ago. We needed PPE. There was a global shortage. Everyone in the world was buying PPE, and British manufacturing managed to turn round and supply it in unprecedented quantities.
Session: Fraud Reduction
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The Leader of the House talks about socialists, but let us talk about the Conservatives. He will be aware that a Conservative peer is under investigation by the National Crime Agency over fraud. PPE Medpro, a company linked to Baroness Mone, was handed hundreds of millions of pounds in Government contracts during the pandemic.
Context
A Conservative peer is under investigation for fraud linked to Government contracts awarded during the pandemic.
Jacob Rees-Mogg
I was going to point out to the right hon. Lady that business questions will follow in due course and that that would be her opportunity to raise such things with the Leader of the House.
Session: Fraud Reduction
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May I say what a luddite approach it is not to see home working as something that can be efficient? We in the Opposition can see that. Less than a year since his last outsource government review was published, Lord Maude has again been appointed to lead a review of the civil service, a role that he performed in Government for five long years. Will the Minister tell us what value for money and performance measurement has taken place since the conclusion of Lord Maude's last review; what tender process has been conducted to award Francis Maude Associates that work; and what conflict-of-interest assessment has taken place? Or are Ministers lining the pockets of their mates with the public's hard-earned money once again?
Context
Concern about the appointment of Lord Maude to lead a review of the civil service, who previously served for five years in Government.
Steve Barclay
Usually, one would expect the House to value corporate memory and experience and the fact that the reforms initially put forward by Lord Maude were a cornerstone of the declaration of civil service reform, signed by the Cabinet Secretary and my predecessor as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, my right hon. Friend the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove).
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for that response. My heartfelt sympathies go out to Ukraine and my support is there with its people. The tragic events of this morning show that there is no space, excuse or justification when it comes to Putin's continued influence in the UK's democracy and national infrastructure. We have seen this week that Russian oligarchs and Kremlin-linked organisations have begun intense lobbying of Government Ministers in an attempt to avoid sanctions if Moscow invades Ukraine. Will the Minister confirm that none of his Conservative colleagues have accepted donations from anyone with links to the Kremlin currently lobbying the Foreign Office?
Context
The MP expressed concern over Russian lobbying efforts in the UK and asked if any Conservative colleagues have accepted Kremlin-linked donations.
Steve Barclay
Again, the right hon. Lady raises an important point. She will well know that there is a long-standing principle that permissible donors are those who are on the UK electoral register: in essence, if people can vote in the UK for a party, they are able to donate to it. It is important in our discussions in this House that we remember—although I do not think that is what she was saying—that people in this country of Russian origin are often British citizens.
Session: Topical Questions
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Further to the question from the right hon. Member for Orkney and Shetland (Mr Carmichael), may I urge the Minister to give more detail on civil resilience, especially in light of what is happening with cyber-attacks and threats emanating from Russia. What extra support is being offered to businesses? I know national infrastructure is important, but many businesses across the UK are concerned about this. Has the national security cell done an assessment, and will that assessment be published?
Context
The MP urged the Minister to provide more detail on civil resilience, especially regarding cyber-threats from Russia.
Steve Barclay
This is an area of common ground across the House. I know the National Security Adviser has shared briefings with Opposition leaders, as referred to earlier in the week, and we continue to work closely across the House. On the specific question of cyber, we will set out further details of the work that the Cabinet Office is doing.
Session: Topical Questions
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I encourage people to read that judgment, because the Government at the moment seem to think that it was all good and rosy. The Paymaster General told the House that a fair and impartial investigation takes place before there is a judge, jury and executioner. Will the Prime Minister act as the judge and jury even though he is also the man in the dock?
Context
Court judgment revealed billions of pounds wasted on dodgy contracts through VIP fast lane.
Steve Barclay
The right hon. Lady is conflating two different issues. More than 16.5 billion PPE items were delivered, at a time of national crisis to ensure frontline protection. The Court's judgment was clear that the outcome would be highly unlikely to have been “substantially different” had a different process been followed.
Session: Topical Questions
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Earlier, in his response to the hon. Member for Harrow East (Bob Blackman), the Paymaster General talked about poor performance. The Government's VIP lane for personal protective equipment procurement was not just dodgy, but actually illegal. That was not my opinion, but the judgment of the High Court yesterday. Once again, this Government have been shown that they cannot seem to stay on the right side of the law. Listening to the Paymaster General, anybody would think that they had won their case in the Court yesterday. Time and again, Cabinet Office Ministers have stood at the Dispatch Box and told us that detailed diligence and full financial checks were done. Yesterday, the Court found that the Cabinet Office simply did not have the resources necessary to undertake due diligence. Officials simply searched online to confirm that one company existed, and another received a red warning but it was not passed on. Can he tell us how much, from those two contracts alone, was spent on equipment that was not even used by the NHS?
Context
The High Court ruled that the Government's VIP lane for PPE procurement was illegal, highlighting failures in due diligence and resource allocation.
Steve Barclay
With respect, what the right hon. Lady omitted was that the court acknowledged that it is highly unlikely that the outcome would have been “substantially different” if a different assessment process had been followed. What the House would quite rightly challenge the Government on is, first, whether anything different would have occurred had there been a different approach; and secondly, the fundamental point of whether, at a time of national crisis, the Government were straining every sinew to ensure that the clinicians at the sharp end of our NHS had the PPE that they needed, and the answer is that they did do that.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am not sure that I got an answer to the question that I posed to the Minister. As I recall—forgive me if I am wrong—the Prime Minister even said at Prime Minister's questions that he was “very happy to publish” the documents, and Ministers today have talked about the importance of transparency. What is there to hide? Will Ministers publish all the correspondence, the WhatsApps and the messages so that there is transparency regarding the covid contracts? Will the Minister also accept all the outstanding freedom of information requests about the documents? As we have heard, £3.5 billion in contracts was awarded without tender to companies with links to the Conservative party. By contrast, not one successful bid came from any politician or adviser of any other party. Spending £1 million a week on storage for dud PPE—can the Minister explain that?
Context
The Prime Minister said he was “very happy to publish” the documents, and Ministers have talked about the importance of transparency.
Steve Barclay (The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Security, Democracy and National Resilience)
Earlier at departmental questions, we were told that the act of referral to the high-priority lane was a bad thing, until hon. Friends pointed out that Opposition Members had made the same referrals. The right hon. Lady has now shifted the attack to Randox and the timing of the contract. I simply remind her that the meeting between Randox and the then Minister for innovation was on 9 April, after the contract was signed with Randox on 30 March. Not only does the National Audit Office have rights of access to Government papers, but there is a legislative framework that applies to papers through the Freedom of Information Act.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the Minister's comments regarding cyber-security and the measures that will be taken, because it is blight on many of our constituents across the United Kingdom. Last week, the Government admitted that minutes of a conference call on 9 April 2020 between the former Member for North Shropshire and a Health Minister could not be located. Has this Minister been informed whether or not those minutes have now been located, and can he say when all the relevant documents will be given to the House? The questioner inquires about the status of locating the missing conference call minutes and the timeline for releasing them.
Context
The Government admitted that minutes of a conference call on 9 April 2020 between the former Member for North Shropshire and a Health Minister could not be located.
Steve Barclay (The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Security, Democracy and National Resilience)
As the right hon. Lady knows, the National Audit Office always has power to access all documents; it has rights of access, as any member of the Public Accounts Committee would know. As we have covered in a series of questions this morning, the National Audit Office noted that “we found that the ministers had properly declared their interests, and we found no evidence of their involvement in procurement decisions or contract management.” Simply repeating a point does not make it correct.
Session: Topical Questions
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I have noticed the change in personnel on the Cabinet Office Front Bench and I would like to welcome all the Ministers to their place today. I also welcome the Prime Minister's direction on fire and rehire, which is that he does not accept this bullying practice, but when will the Government take action on this? I accept the Minister's response on ACAS, but this is just not good enough. If the Minister is committed to having good employment practices, what will he do to end this practice of fire and rehire?
Context
The MP welcomes the Prime Minister's stance on fire and rehire practices but seeks concrete action from the Government.
Michael Ellis
We are keeping the private Member's Bill of the hon. Member for Brent North (Barry Gardiner) under review. I think the hon. Lady knows that, when it comes to protecting the rights of workers, this Government have been doing just that.
Session: Fire and Rehire
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I listened to the Minister's answer and I can tell him that Lord Bethell is no Sterling. The Prime Minister's official spokesperson stated last week that no Ministers had used private emails to conduct Government business. Surely the Minister now accepts that that is untrue. Will he tell us when the Prime Minister will correct the record? We have submitted freedom of information requests to seek publication of such emails, but will the Minister agree now to publish every email about Government contracts?
Context
Concern about the lack of transparency in government procurement processes during a crisis, particularly related to PPE procurement. There are allegations that some Ministers' emails were marked as 'fast track'.
Michael Gove
The right hon. Lady quite rightly refers to the very powerful question from the hon. Member for Slough (Mr Dhesi), and I think all of us deeply sympathise with the family loss that he has had to endure, as so many others have had to. It is precisely because we take these things seriously that we took steps to ensure that we could source personal protective equipment as quickly as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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Football is indeed coming home, but I think the chickens are coming home to roost for this Government. The Government's spokesperson said last week that there was no high priority lane for testing suppliers and no separate 'fast track process'. Can you tell me what exactly the role was of the consultant to the testing procurement programme who described his role as leading VIP stakeholder engagement with Lord Bethell, a current Minister?
Context
The government's spokesperson previously stated that there was no high priority lane for testing suppliers or separate 'fast track process' in procurement. However, questions have been raised about a consultant to the testing procurement programme who mentioned 'VIP stakeholder engagement'. It is also alleged that procurement director ordered officials to mark bids from Ministers as 'fast track'.
Michael Gove
There were lots of interesting questions there. The first thing that I should say is that Lord Bethell is doing a fantastic job in the Department of Health and Social Care. I think it is quite wrong for the right hon. Lady to cast aspersions on his dedicated public service and the work that he has done as Minister for Innovation.
Session: Topical Questions
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Everyone, no matter where they grow up, should have access to the same opportunities in life. Can my right hon. Friend confirm that a key part of the levelling-up agenda will be to improve teaching and provide support for schools and skills programmes in disadvantaged areas, to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential?
Context
The MP is discussing the importance of ensuring equal opportunities for all, especially through improving teaching and support for schools and skills programmes in less advantaged regions.
Michael Gove
That is exactly it. My hon. Friend is completely right.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for his comments, but learning the right lessons could save lives and the truth matters to us all, so can he tell us which, if any, of the claims made by Dominic Cummings he is now prepared to refute at the Dispatch Box?
Context
The MP is questioning the government's handling of the pandemic based on testimony heard in committees, particularly regarding Dominic Cummings' claims.
Michael Gove
I have not had the opportunity to read all the evidence that was given yesterday, and indeed the Speaker has enjoined brevity on me, but I think that the public inquiry that we have been discussing is the right place to review all the evidence from every individual.
Session: Topical Questions
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Across the country, hard-working staff in universities and colleges have been forced to strike against effective cuts to their pay and attacks on education that hurt students and staff alike. So far, the Education Secretary's response to the crisis is much like the Health Secretary's response to the coronavirus: wash your hands of it and hope it goes away. Will Ministers finally step in, respond to the urgent letter they received from the University and College Union, urge universities to make a fair offer, and ensure that next week's Budget gives teachers in colleges the pay that they deserve?
Context
Staff in universities and colleges have been on strike due to effective cuts to pay and attacks on education.
Gavin Williamson (The Prime Minister)
I thank the hon. Lady for raising this issue. I want to see a resolution to this matter as swiftly as possible, and I urge both parties to come to a resolution. The people suffering most of all are the students whose studies are being impacted. We need a resolution as swiftly as possible, and I urge both the unions and the universities to get an agreement within the next few weeks.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Local Government Reorganisation
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Building Homes and Renewing Communities
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Refusal
02 September 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
The Bill strengthens our elections and takes a stand against hostile actors, extending the franchise to 16 and 17-year-olds, automating voter registration, protecting candidates and officers, and intr...
Employment Rights Bill 2025-12-15
15 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Employment Rights Bill aims to extend employment protections to all workers, addressing the concerns raised by the Lords amendments. The Minister emphasises that removing the unfair dismissal comp...
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 ...
Budget Resolutions 2025-12-02
02 December 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Ministerial Code 2025-11-24
24 November 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm that the Government will take immediate steps to address breaches of the ministerial code, particularly in relation to pre-Budget briefing and conflicts of interest involving...
Personal Statement 2025-10-22
22 October 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
Angela Rayner delivered a personal statement reflecting on her time as Secretary of State for Housing and her commitment to improving workers' rights, housing policies, and transparency in public life...
English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill 2025-09-02
02 September 2025
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2025-03-24
24 March 2025
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Attendance
43.9%
43 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
17
17.3% of votes
No Votes
26
26.5% of votes
Abstentions
55
56.1% 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 NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
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
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
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
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
78
PMQs Asked
38
Ministerial Questions Asked
65
House of Commons Debates Involved
0
Westminster Hall Debates Led
10
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+2031% above average
This MP:
78
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+184% above average
This MP:
38
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1237% above average
This MP:
65
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+6% above average
This MP:
10
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-37% below average
This MP:
43.9
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 Rayner's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.