Anne McLaughlin
MP for Glasgow North East
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The day I had to phone my bank to tell it that I was having difficulty paying my mortgage was one that has lived with me for years. I found that because my income was so low at the time, ironically, I was not eligible to switch to an interest-only mortgage or get any help. I never want my constituents to feel the terror and abandonment that I felt that day. Can the Deputy Prime Minister understand that? The complete lack of empathy in his responses to the deputy leader of the SNP group suggests not. I welcome the temporary measures, but they are temporary. This mortgage crisis has been two years in the making. Do he and the Prime Minister really think they are going to fix it in 12 months?
Context
The questioner experienced difficulties accessing mortgage support due to low income.
Oliver Dowden
It is deeply disturbing, upsetting and worrying for anyone to contemplate losing their home. That is exactly why my right hon. Friend the Chancellor has introduced the mortgage charter, which 90% of the mortgage market has now signed up to and which will provide support to people. In addition, after three months, people on universal credit can apply for further support.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I have launched an all-party group on prepayment meters due to issues faced by those using them, including higher costs and risk of being cut off. Can the Prime Minister imagine how terrifying it is for someone's lights to go out? Does he agree this is unfair?
Context
Many people on low incomes use prepayment meters for energy, paying higher rates per unit than the Prime Minister and facing automatic disconnection when they run out of money. Energy companies are forcing more people onto these meters.
Rishi Sunak
The Government recognise challenges faced by those on prepayment meters and are taking action. Energy suppliers are being spoken to, Ofgem has launched a review into supplier practices in relation to these meters.
Assessment
Specific agreement not addressed
Taking Action
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
My lovely 88-year-old constituent Mary feels foolish for falling for it. She is talking about being mis-sold green deal products by Home Energy and Lifestyle Management Ltd, a Government-approved company, in 2013. She is talking about being saddled with a 25-year loan that she must live to 106 to pay off. At the speed with which the complaints are being dealt with by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, I will be 106 by the time we get any kind of resolution. Will the Prime Minister please commit to investigating why Mary, who is watching now, and hundreds of others are waiting years to be compensated for something that happened not because they were foolish, but because they were victims of mis-selling?
Context
A constituent was mis-sold green deal products by a Government-approved company and is struggling with long-term loan repayments. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy's complaints process is slow.
Boris Johnson
I am afraid to say that what the hon. Lady raises is incredibly important, and she is right to raise it. We must accelerate the process by which these complaints are upheld and dealt with and compensation is delivered, if only because that is the only way to build public confidence in all the retrofitting, insulation and improvements to our homes that we need to deliver across the whole of the country as part of our green industrial revolution.
Assessment
Did not commit to a specific investigation or timeline for resolving complaints
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The youth mobility scheme would allow young people in my constituency of Glasgow North East and across Scotland to participate in youth exchanges, work, study and travel across Europe. The Minister got to do that. Is his message to my constituents that this freedom was for the likes of him, but not for the likes of them?
Context
The EU's youth mobility scheme would allow young people in Glasgow North East and Scotland to participate in various activities across Europe, but the Minister has expressed opposition.
John Lamont
The UK Government currently operate 13 successful bilateral youth mobility schemes with international parties. The countries with which we already have arrangements include Andorra, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, South Korea, Taiwan and Uruguay.
Session: Youth Mobility European Commission Scheme
View All Questions -->
Along with my hon. Friend the Member for Paisley and Renfrewshire North (Gavin Newlands), I co-chaired the all-party parliamentary group on green deal mis-selling. After nearly 10 years, we are still waiting for justice for our constituents who were told to invest in green technologies but suffered losses. Why not find a political solution?
Context
The questioner and her colleague co-chaired an all-party group on green deal mis-selling, and after nearly a decade, justice is still awaited. Most affected constituents were over 70 when it happened.
Andrew Bowie
I agree that what happened was dreadful and an ongoing legal process is under way, so I am restricted in what I can say. However, I should be happy to meet her in the coming days to discuss specifics involving her constituents who were affected.
Session: Green Technologies Investment
View All Questions -->
Many prominent Sri Lankans were credibly accused of war crimes against the Tamil minority during the 30-year civil war. Despite this, they are still at large while nearly 18,000 Tamils went missing and are unaccounted for. How can Palestinians have faith if Tamils have had evidence sitting there for years without action?
Context
The question addresses the failure of the UK government to ensure accountability for alleged human rights violators against the Tamil community, highlighting that evidence has been available but perpetrators remain at large.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
We all take these issues very seriously. I was in Sri Lanka just a few weeks ago, and I was able to raise the need for progress on human rights, on reconciliation and indeed accountability with the President of Sri Lanka during my visit.
Session: Sri Lanka
View All Questions -->
Whether his Department is taking diplomatic steps to help ensure that perpetrators of alleged human rights violations against the Tamil community in Sri Lanka are held to account. Many prominent Sri Lankans were credibly accused of war crimes against Tamils during the civil war, yet they are still at large while nearly 18,000 Tamils remain unaccounted for. Despite earlier assurances that evidence would be taken seriously, there seems to be no action.
Context
The question addresses the failure of the UK government to ensure accountability for alleged human rights violators against the Tamil community, highlighting that evidence has been available but perpetrators remain at large.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
The UK is working closely with international partners on this long-standing priority, including at the UN Human Rights Council, where the UK led resolution 51/1 on Sri Lanka. We all take these issues very seriously. I was in Sri Lanka just a few weeks ago and raised the need for progress on human rights, reconciliation and accountability during my visit.
Session: Sri Lanka
View All Questions -->
Across the world and in the United Kingdom, human rights are being eroded and fuel poverty is on the rise. This Government could address both by declaring access to energy a human right. It would mean that people could not be cut off willy-nilly simply because they could not afford to pay for their energy at that time. Does the Minister agree that energy should be a human right? If not, will she tell me which human beings she believes should not have the right to heat their homes?
Context
Concerns over the global erosion of human rights and rising fuel poverty in the UK have prompted this question. The MP suggests that declaring access to energy as a human right would ensure people are not cut off from energy due to inability to pay.
Amanda Solloway
As the hon. Lady indicated, the Government take fuel poverty incredibly seriously. Everybody has the right to heat. We have been helping people with their energy bills, including a £900 cost of living allowance, as well as all the great things that we announced in the autumn statement.
Session: Fuel Poverty
View All Questions -->
What assessment has her Department made of trends in the level of fuel poverty since 2018? This is based on previous observations where the share of households in fuel poverty in England reduced every year between 2010 and 2021, with energy efficiency being a key driver.
Context
The question is prompted by concerns over the trend of fuel poverty in England since 2018. Previous data showed a reduction in households in fuel poverty between 2010 and 2021.
Amanda Solloway
The share of households in fuel poverty in England reduced every year between 2010 and 2021, with energy efficiency being the key driver. Although fuel poverty is devolved, we continue to engage with the devolved Administrations, including on specific schemes such as the energy company obligation and the warm home discount.
Session: Fuel Poverty
View All Questions -->
If life is so peachy for pensioners and if the Minister really is as passionate as he says he is about supporting pensioners, why does Independent Age say that, despite the long list he has given, the uptake in pension credit is not reaching the people who need it the most? Why are pensioners still missing out on several million every year in Glasgow North East? Will he use his passion to follow the Scottish Government and have a proper targeted benefit uptake strategy?
Context
Independent Age reports that pension credit uptake is not reaching the most in need, causing missed benefits.
Guy Opperman
The hon. Lady will be aware that pension credit applications are up 75%. Clearly, we are trying to get that even higher. There is a nationwide campaign, which includes Scotland.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
My retired constituents from various areas know I am a champion for their rights. Why is she not telling me anything that gives me comfort that she is actually going to champion them? When will she start doing that?
Context
The question highlights the work done by the MP to assist constituents in applying for pension credit and calls out the Minister's lack of action.
Mims Davies
Many MPs use the Help to Claim service or the benefits calculator to assist constituents. The Minister responsible for pensions announced the Invitation to Claim trial, involving 2,600 households across 10 local authorities this summer.
Session: Pension Credit Uptake
View All Questions -->
What discussions have you had with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on increasing the uptake of pension credit among older people?
Context
The question arises from discussions on raising awareness and increasing take-up of pension credit for retired individuals. There has been a notable increase in applications.
Mims Davies
Since April last year, we have been running a substantial campaign to raise awareness and increase take-up. Applications for pension credit were around 75% higher in the year to May 2023 than in the same period the year before.
Session: Pension Credit Uptake
View All Questions -->
For seven long years, my SNP colleagues and I have fought for justice for victims of green deal mis-selling. A successful recent test case is now being appealed, and the resolution to this could take many more years. In the meantime, some of my constituents have died—most recently, a lovely woman by the name of May Young. We do not have to keep putting people through this; there is a political resolution. Will the Minister meet me to discuss that?
Context
The SNP has been fighting for justice for victims of green deal mis-selling for seven years, and a successful recent test case is being appealed.
Graham Stuart
I thank the hon. Lady for her question and her years of effort to support constituents in this respect. I would be delighted to meet her.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What will the Government do, and when, to get food, water and medicine to Sudan, and how can we ensure that it actually gets to people given that supply chains from Khartoum have all but broken down?
Context
A constituent raised concerns about the difficulties in getting humanitarian aid to people in Sudan, noting that 75% of hospitals are closed and supply chains from Khartoum have broken down.
James Cleverly
We will continue to work with organisations such as the United Nations World Food Programme and other international donors to provide additional humanitarian support. We are coordinating closely to ensure aid reaches those who need it.
Session: Sudan Emergency Situation
View All Questions -->
What steps is the Department taking in response to the emergency situation in Sudan?
Context
An emergency situation exists in Sudan with ongoing conflict, evacuations of British citizens, and severe humanitarian needs including food, water, and medical supplies.
James Cleverly
In addition to undertaking the longest, largest evacuation mission of any western nation—bringing more than 2,300 people out of Sudan—we continue to push for a permanent end to the conflict and a resumption of civilian rule. We will make a fuller statement later today.
Session: Sudan Emergency Situation
View All Questions -->
Independent research shows that the Scottish block grant will be cut by £5 billion in real terms over the next two years. What if the Scottish Government have £5 billion less to spend and our councils have less to spend, despite cost and demand going up? Let us consider Glasgow City Council. The city treasurer, Councillor Ricky Bell, said today: “The consequences of what looks likely to be passed on to Scotland's public services will be catastrophic and communities, already reeling from 12 years of Tory austerity, are being pushed to the brink of destruction.” What can he do, other than support independence, to stop those communities being destroyed?
Context
Independent research shows that the Scottish block grant will be cut by £5 billion in real terms over the next two years.
Alister Jack
Supporting independence will certainly not help the finances of Scotland; many independent economists have made that observation. As I said, it is absolutely a choice that the Scottish Government have to make about how they spend their budget. If they need to do so, they have tax-raising and borrowing powers.
Session: Devolved Finances
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State stop tinkering with human rights if the Scottish Parliament says no?
Context
The question follows from concerns about dismissing the views of Scotland in relation to human rights.
Brandon Lewis
The government remains committed to delivering manifesto pledges and will continue engaging but does not commit to stopping reforms based on Scottish Parliament's opinion.
Session: Human Rights
View All Questions -->
Does the Secretary of State agree with Professor Aileen McHarg that changes to the Human Rights Act will affect devolved competence?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the implications of changes to the Human Rights Act for Scotland's devolved authority.
Brandon Lewis
The government is committed to delivering manifesto pledges and doing the right thing for the UK. They have consulted all devolved authorities throughout the process of looking at the Bill of Rights.
Session: Human Rights
View All Questions -->
Last week I spent an evening in Glasgow with families who, like me, have lost someone to drug addiction. They and I accept that the ideal situation is that people will conquer their addiction, but does the right hon. Lady accept that they can do that only if they do not die first? Does she also accept that, for those who continue to use, we should enable them to do so as safely as possible and as close to medical assistance as possible? The Royal College of Nursing supports drug consumption rooms. Will she support them? And will she support the families and the memory of all those who have lost their life to drugs? Will she give the go-ahead for just one pilot project?
Context
The MP spent time with families affected by drug addiction and loss, discussing the importance of medical assistance in reducing fatal outcomes. The Royal College of Nursing supports such initiatives.
Priti Patel
I totally recognise and understand not only the hon. Lady's remarks, but the scale of drug addiction and drug deaths—we have discussed this many times before in this House and it is tragic. Conquering addiction is not easy, which is why I stand by the work of Carol Black. It is pivotal in terms of putting forward long-term treatment programmes, because long-term treatment is really required.
Session: Overdose Prevention Centres
View All Questions -->
I am concerned about the potential merits of implementing a pilot project to evaluate the effectiveness of drug consumption rooms. The aim would be to assess whether these measures can improve public health outcomes and reduce harm from illegal drug use in communities.
Context
The MP is concerned about the effectiveness and potential benefits of implementing a pilot project for drug consumption rooms to evaluate their impact on public safety.
Priti Patel
Drugs are a scourge on society that destroys lives, blights communities and fuels crime. There is no safe way to take dangerous drugs, so I do not support legalising drugs. Importantly, the drug strategy led by this Government will tackle drug supply, reduce demand and provide world-class treatment to those in need of help.
Session: Overdose Prevention Centres
View All Questions -->
Will serving personnel receive an above-inflation pay rise this year?
Context
Question about whether serving personnel will receive an above-inflation pay increase this year.
Leo Docherty
We look forward to making an announcement in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I know what the Government have said they are doing to increase the uptake of pension credit, and that is good; I do not want to hear it again, though. I also know that people can backdate their claims for pension credit, so anyone who makes a successful application by 24 August this year will receive the £650. However, I have been campaigning for the deadline to be extended to the end of the fiscal year, because I think that as we go into the winter, that is what will concentrate people's minds when they have to make the very real choice between heating and eating. I am not asking the Minister to commit himself to doing this today, but will he commit himself to at least considering extending the deadline to 31 March next year?
Context
The MP has been campaigning to extend the deadline for backdating claims of pension credit, arguing that people need support as they face difficult choices between heating and eating during winter.
Guy Opperman
The uptake of pension credit is clearly to be applauded, and I sincerely hope that the hon. Lady was behind the pension credit day of action and is behind the messages that we are all trying to put out. That is not all, however. On Thursday we will make the £326 cost of living payment, which will drop £1 million in payments every single working day, and there will be a further £324 payment in the autumn. We are also providing the energy support grant of £400, which will go to every individual in the country, as well as the £300 winter fuel payment, the council tax rebate, and various other household support grants. All those are available to individuals up and down the country, and will also support pensioners.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Welcoming the Scottish Government's investments, does she agree more funding should be available across the UK for better access to justice? Will you consider this in your prime ministerial manifesto?
Context
The Scottish Government's investment and Crown Office budget increases are highlighted as a model to follow.
Suella Braverman
There has been significant investment over the last two years to tackle violence against women and girls, including localised data dashboards. We are proud of the victims code with 12 rights for victims now enshrined in statute.
Session: Access to Justice for Victims of Crime
View All Questions -->
When the Lord Chancellor sees that kind of behaviour, does he ever have second thoughts about the type of company that he is taking the UK into as a result of his proposals? How will this be viewed by the international community?
Context
Russia ignored a ruling from the European Court of Human Rights, indicating non-compliance.
Dominic Raab
We have one of the highest compliance records in the Council of Europe. Frankly, equating our approach with that of President Putin shows a problem with her moral compass.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
In answer to an earlier question about Sri Lanka, the Under-Secretary said that she would continue to lobby the Sri Lankan Government. Given credible accusations of war crimes by people in their military, is lobbying really enough?
Context
The question addresses the under-Secretary's previous statement about Sri Lanka and concerns over war crimes.
Vicky Ford
On Sri Lanka, let me start by absolutely emphasising again that violence against peaceful protesters is unacceptable. We absolutely condemn the violence we see happening at the moment and we are urging everybody towards calm. We will continue to work to make sure that we support the country through funding from our conflict, stability and security fund, which has supported peacebuilding, and we continue to respect the independence of the prosecutor when it comes to investigating war crimes of the past.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
This Thursday I will be heading to Kigali for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting. Can she make a statement on her departmental responsibilities?
Context
The question arises from the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Kigali.
Elizabeth Truss
This Thursday I will be heading to Kigali for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting. In a world where freedom and sovereignty are being threatened by aggressors, the Commonwealth is more important than ever. It represents a third of the world's population and about 30% of the votes at the United Nations. The British Government will be backing Kamina Johnson Smith, the Jamaican Foreign Minister, as the new Secretary-General to ensure that the Commonwealth delivers for all its members in areas such as trade, investment and defending democracy.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I am getting sick and tired of the fact that every time any Opposition Member talks about our disgust with the “abandon people in Rwanda” scheme, Government Members start shouting, “What are your plans?” If they had paid any attention during the six full weeks of debate on the Nationality and Borders Bill or had read up on the multiple amendments that we tabled, which Conservative Members voted down, they would know what our plans are—
Context
The MP criticized the government's immigration policies, including the Rwanda scheme.
Priti Patel
If the hon. Lady has read the new plan for immigration—I hope she has—she will be very clear about the Government's policy on safe and legal routes. I have outlined today a number of safe and legal routes to which the Government have committed, including two routes for Ukrainian nationals and the two routes for those who fled Afghanistan last year.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Will he listen to the UK security services, who know more about dangerous foreign criminals than he does? They have warned that overhauling the Human Rights Act could affect their ability to provide evidence in secret. I know he knows why that is dangerous, particularly in terrorism cases, so will he listen to them and to his predecessor in this role?
Context
The UK security services have warned that overhauling the Human Rights Act could affect their ability to provide evidence in secret.
Dominic Raab
May I gently say to the hon. Member that there is an issue around extraterritorial jurisdiction, where we will want to consult very carefully? Whether it is the deportation of foreign national offenders or whether it is parole reform, which I believe we also need to undertake, these are all areas where the public, constituents of hon. Members in all parts of the House, will expect us to take a common-sense approach.
Session: UK’s Human Rights Framework
View All Questions -->
I echo the Chair of the Select Committee in calling for a full response to Sir Peter Gross QC. Indeed, I wonder why the Government bothered to appoint him if they were not going to listen to him. Does the Secretary of State at least agree with his first recommendation, which is that there should be a full and robust programme of education about what the Human Rights Act actually is?
Context
The Chair of the Select Committee called for a full response to Sir Peter Gross QC's report, criticising the government's lack of engagement with his recommendations.
Dominic Raab
It is precisely through the process of consultation on our proposal for a Bill of Rights that we can have a proper, substantive debate, listen to all sides of the argument and inject some common sense back into the system, and disseminate that more widely.
Session: UK’s Human Rights Framework
View All Questions -->
Does she agree that any actions by Westminster to alter legal human rights remedies must respect Scotland's distinct legal system, and that attempts to do otherwise would be contrary to the devolution settlement?
Context
Amps from Scotland asking about respecting legal systems and human rights protections under devolution settlement.
Suella Braverman
The Law Officers are concerned about legislation falling outside competence. The Supreme Court agreed with the Government earlier this year regarding Bills proposed by the Scottish Government, ultimately wishing for respect of UK-wide decisions despite Scotland's vote to remain part of it.
Session: Strength of the Union
View All Questions -->
How does this Government's proposed presumption clause allowing for prospective quashing orders, ensuring no redress or compensation and time to change laws, align with natural justice principles for the average person compared to those with wealth and power?
Context
There is worry that the presumption in favour of prospective quashing orders will prevent ordinary people from obtaining redress or compensation, even if courts declare actions unlawful.
James Cartlidge
The presumption clause is there simply to expedite jurisprudence accumulation, not as hon. Lady suggested for weakening natural justice for ordinary citizens.
Session: Judicial Review and Courts Bill
View All Questions -->
Why does the Government propose to remove a crucial last line of defence for ordinary citizens by eliminating Cart and Eba-type judicial reviews used predominantly by vulnerable individuals?
Context
There is concern about the removal of Cart and Eba-type judicial reviews, which are vital for ordinary people.
James Cartlidge
We have debated this extensively in Committee. The Bill is fair as cases receive three bites at the cherry, whereas others get only two. However, we must manage resources efficiently; dealing with serious backlogs takes priority.
Session: Judicial Review and Courts Bill
View All Questions -->
Given the number of leading UK legal experts who oppose the Home Secretary's plans, can the Attorney General reassure the House that she has not advised the Home Secretary that pushback plans would be either legal or moral?
Context
The question follows concerns raised by the former Justice Secretary regarding the Home Secretary's plan to push back migrant children and their parents arriving by boats in the Channel, stating that such actions would not break international law.
Suella Braverman
The Government are committed to addressing the unacceptable rise in dangerous and unnecessary small boat crossings, and are continuing to explore all options available to bring the numbers down. Our primary focus is on preventing people from entering the channel, tackling the criminal gangs responsible and protecting lives.
Session: Refugee Rights International Law
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has been made of the Government's proposals on asylum in relation to (a) the UN's convention on the status of refugees and (b) the rule of law?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the compatibility of government proposals on asylum with international legal standards, specifically the UN's convention on the status of refugees and adherence to the rule of law.
Suella Braverman
Any request for my advice is subject to the Law Officers' convention, but I must make it clear that the UK prides itself on its leadership within the international system and discharges its international obligations in good faith. The Home Office's new plan for immigration is based on fairness, and the Government stand by our moral and legal obligations to help innocent civilians fleeing cruelty from all over the world.
Session: Refugee Rights International Law
View All Questions -->
The Nationality and Borders Bill also lengthens the time for which those seeking asylum must wait for a decision, while shortening the time that they have in which to appeal. As we have heard, 22 female judges are trapped in Afghanistan, and neither yesterday nor today have we heard any firm plans to get them out. If they manage somehow to make it here without our assistance, how surprised does the Secretary of State think they will be to discover the complete disregard for them and for the rule of law in that Bill?
Context
MP criticises the Nationality and Borders Bill for its treatment of asylum seekers.
Robert Buckland
Again, the hon. Lady is way off the mark. The idea that there is not a clear plan was plainly negatived by yesterday's statement from the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, my hon. Friend the Member for Louth and Horncastle (Victoria Atkins). We have a very clear plan for Afghan judges.
Session: The Rule of Law
View All Questions -->
None of this is funny. This Government's disregard for the rule of law is wide-ranging, as we have heard. They are reducing access to justice, planning, for instance, to remove Cart judicial reviews; the Nationality and Borders Bill simply ignores the refugee convention, while the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill strips away legal certainty; and the Secretary of State's own comments to me in this place on 18 May demonstrated his disregard for our international obligations. Can he match my necessarily shortened list with examples that demonstrate the opposite?
Context
MP argues that government disregards the rule of law.
Robert Buckland
I am afraid that that is emblematic of the problem that we are facing. Dressing up legitimate political debate as somehow a direct criticism of our adherence to the rule of law is, I am afraid, a regular trick of the left, and I am not going to fall for that sanctimonious list of nonsense.
Session: The Rule of Law
View All Questions -->
I am still not happy with the answers given to my colleagues about the lack of HGV drivers. The problems facing Carntyne Transport in my constituency are absolutely due to Brexit and the shortage of EU nationals to work for the company. Telling it that we will have sorted all this out in x months or a couple of years' time just won't wash. Given that the Government were repeatedly warned what would happen if they pressed ahead with Brexit, and given that that has all come to pass, what guarantee can the Minister give that his Department will at least listen and put solutions in place before pressing ahead with damaging legislation?
Context
Carntyne Transport faces difficulties due to a shortage of HGV drivers, exacerbated by Brexit.
Grant Shapps
I am all in favour of having a science-led emphasis on everything to do with policy, and the fact that they are 123,842 lorry drivers short in Poland suggests to me that this is not a Brexit-only issue. I have explained the measures that are not only going to happen next year or the year after but are happening now with 50% more tests, and this will happen very quickly with the consultation result that I have already discussed.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does the Secretary of State want to eradicate the traditional way of life of the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller community as suggested by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill? Does he agree with hon. Member for Ashfield's comments branding Travellers as thieves?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the impact of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill on the rights and freedoms of the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities. She cites criticisms from these groups regarding the potential erasure of their nomadic lifestyles.
Robert Buckland
I uphold principles of equality, inclusion, and diversity but note conflicts may arise between different groups; balance is maintained through legislation.
Session: International Treaties on Human Rights Obligations
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State join in condemning the hon. Member for Ashfield who branded Travellers as thieves? The Bill is described as 'the single biggest threat' to their traditional way of life. Does he want to eradicate their nomadic lifestyle?
Context
The MP references the hon. Member for Ashfield who reportedly branded Travellers as thieves and criticises this stance. She highlights that the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill is seen by the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community as a threat to their traditional way of life.
Robert Buckland
I have not seen the reported remarks by my hon. Friend but maintain principles of equality, inclusion, and diversity; however, interests can conflict between groups and balance is necessary.
Session: International Treaties on Human Rights Obligations
View All Questions -->
It is not necessary and proportionate in the cases I have been hearing about. In one case, someone who had been here as a highly skilled migrant for 10 years was refused the right to remain because he had miscalculated his tax by £1.20 years previously. What global talent does the Minister think will want to take the risk of uprooting their families to another country that may well kick them out for something HMRC previously said was a minor issue?
Context
The MP raises concerns about specific cases where data sharing between HMRC and the Home Office has led to individuals being refused the right to remain due to minor tax issues.
Jesse Norman
For reasons that I have described, I cannot comment on individual cases. However, the hon. Lady is welcome to raise them with HMRC on behalf of her constituents. I can tell her that legislation provides very specific, well-designed information-sharing gateways under an umbrella memorandum of understanding governing all data sharing between the two sides, and all of that is grounded in strict obedience with the law.
Session: Immigration Sharing of Data between HMRC and Home Office
View All Questions -->
What his Department's policy is on the sharing of data between HMRC and the Home Office for immigration purposes?
Context
No specific background or context is provided, but the question pertains to concerns about data sharing practices.
Jesse Norman
Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs has a strict duty of confidentiality in relation to information it holds on taxpayers. HMRC will share information on individuals or employers with the Home Office for immigration purposes only where a clear legal basis exists, and it will share or disclose only the information that is necessary and proportionate to the intended purpose through strict adherence to data protection principles, including the UK general data protection regulation.
Session: Immigration Sharing of Data between HMRC and Home Office
View All Questions -->
UK trade exports to the EU fell 23% in the first quarter of the year, compared with 0.8% to non-EU countries. It is clear to everyone that that is a consequence of the Tories' Brexit deal—everyone that is except this Government. Will the Minister finally accept that her Government's deal has harmed exports—in other words, harmed business in my constituency, in her constituency and right across these islands?
Context
The MP is concerned about a significant drop in UK trade exports to the EU compared to non-EU countries, blaming it on the Government's deal.
Penny Mordaunt
I do not accept that. Businesses have had to contend with a huge amount and they have done a tremendous job to get this far. There are remaining issues, but, on the trade figures, as I said in my opening remarks, they have rebounded; they are actually above average compared with what they were at the beginning of last year. What the hon. Lady does not refer to is the 63 trade deals that we have done elsewhere in the world and that will bring huge opportunities for businesses in her constituency and across the UK.
Session: Barriers to Trade Between EU and UK
View All Questions -->
Did the Secretary of State really say that incorporation of international conventions will not improve safeguarding? If so, does he believe it and is this view applicable to all such conventions?
Context
The Secretary of State previously stated that incorporating international conventions would make no difference to the quality of safeguarding children in the country.
Robert Buckland
In a word, yes.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Levelling-up Fund Round 2: Bidding Process
07 February 2023
Responding: Dehenna Davison
Main Concerns
["Round two of the levelling up fund was a waste of effort and money for Glasgow City Council, as changes to eligibility criteria at the last minute made all of their bids ineligible. The council invested approximately £500,000 in officer time preparing seven bids that would have helped redevelop deprived communities. Anne McLaughlin highlighted that Glasgow's financial flexibility is limited due to austerity measures and additional constraints like settling equal pay disputes with mainly female employees. She argued that the forced competition among local authorities for funding is a poor distribution method."]
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the Minister to explain the decision-making process in the final 24 hours before decisions were made, whether there will be a round three of levelling-up fund bidding, and if Glasgow City Council will be reimbursed the estimated £500,000 cost incurred for bids that could not win due to eligibility changes.']
Pension Credit and Cost of Living Support Grant
26 October 2022
Responding: Alex Burghart
Main Concerns
['The Member is worried about the low uptake of pension credit, which stands at around 60%, despite many older people living in poverty. She mentions that £7.7 million goes unclaimed in her constituency and £2.2 billion annually across the UK. Concerns include stigma associated with applying for benefits, perceived complexity of the application process, and lack of awareness about pension credit.']
Specific Asks
['The Member asks the Government to extend the deadline for eligibility for the cost-of-living support grant until March 31st next year. She also requests clarity on the exact date in December when half payments will be issued and a strategy to raise awareness among eligible recipients.']
Immigration Rules
07 July 2021
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member for Glasgow North West is concerned about the Government's practice of sharing HMRC tax information with the Home Office, leading to visa refusals for highly skilled migrants from specific Commonwealth countries based on historical minor tax discrepancies. She highlighted that this affects individuals who have lived in the UK for over 10 years and contributes significantly to the economy but are now facing precarious immigration situations without fair assessments or hearings. The hon. Member also pointed out that these decisions disproportionately impact people of colour, with more than half being Pakistani nationals and 70% Muslim, raising concerns about racial profiling."]
Specific Asks
["The hon. Member requests clarity on how paragraph 322(5) of the immigration rules will be used in future applications for highly skilled migrants who have been granted some form of leave. She also asks the Minister to explain why related clauses in the immigration rules were recently redacted online and invites him to meet her, other interested Members, and the Migrants' Rights Network to address these issues."]
Immigration Update
01 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Off-Road Vehicles (Compulsory Registration) Bill
19 April 2024
Bill Debate
Led by this MP
The Bill aims to introduce a compulsory registration scheme for off-road vehicles, such as quad bikes and motorbikes, to reduce antisocial behaviour and improve safety. It is in honour of Davie Gow wh...
Defending the UK and Allies
15 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel-Hamas War: Diplomacy
11 December 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Illegal Immigration
15 November 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Public Order Act 2023
16 May 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Energy Security and Net Zero Bill - Clause on Energy Independence and Resilience
09 May 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities moved to initiate the Second Reading of the Energy Security and Net Zero Bill. He emphasised that Britain's energy security has been sh...
Prepayment Meters: Ofgem Decision
06 February 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Energy Bills: Self-disconnection
25 January 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
15 December 2022
General Debate
Led by this MP
The House recognises that prepayment metre customers are not afforded the same rights when in energy debt as those who pay in arrears; understands that a £10 debt leads to automatic disconnection for ...
3
PMQs Asked
60
Ministerial Questions Asked
54
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-18% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+348% above average
This MP:
60
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1008% above average
This MP:
54
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Anne McLaughlin's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.