Ben Goldsborough
MP for South Norfolk
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
As many Members know, I am currently being treated for stage 2C skin cancer. I am responding well, but only because it was caught early and because I have had the very best of NHS care. Not everyone is so fortunate. Zoe Panayi, a 26-year-old from the Isle of Wight, was told that her mole was harmless. She had it removed privately, but it proved to be malignant. She tragically died in 2020. Her family—Charlie and Eileen are in the Gallery today—have shown extraordinary courage, working with my hon. Friend the Member for Isle of Wight West (Mr Quigley) and me to campaign for Zoe’s law: compulsory testing of all removed moles. Will the Prime Minister meet us, and Zoe’s family, to discuss how we can make this a reality?
Context
A tragic case involving Zoe Panayi, who was told that her mole was harmless but later found to be malignant. Her family is working with Ben Goldsborough and his colleague to campaign for Zoe’s law: compulsory testing of all removed moles.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
On behalf of the House, I wish my hon. Friend the very best for his recovery. I know that this is a deeply personal campaign for him—a campaign that is also supported by our hon. Friend the Member for Isle of Wight West. May I send my deepest sympathies, and pay tribute to, Zoe’s family, who are with us today? Their bravery is staggering, and I share their determination to improve cancer survival rates. That is why we are investing billions to see earlier diagnosis and faster treatment of cancer, and are developing a national cancer plan. Of course, we will get a meeting set up, and if the family are available and it is convenient —I do not know whether it is—I will ask the Health Minister to meet them later today, or, if that is not convenient, at the earliest possible opportunity, so that they can have that discussion.
Session: PMQs
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When the Prime Minister and the Chancellor discuss the importance of supporting working families, I think of the dedicated farmers in South Norfolk. The Prime Minister has consistently acknowledged the critical role of food security and the need for farmers to have certainty to plan. Can he confirm what action our Government will be taking to back British farming in constituencies like mine?
Context
The Prime Minister acknowledges the critical role of food security and needs to take action in supporting farmers.
Keir Starmer
I welcome my hon. Friend to his place. Talking of predecessors, no one did more damage to rural constituencies than his nearby predecessor, whose disastrous mini-Budget crashed the economy and hurt his constituents. I note that she has been tweeting her approval of the shadow Chancellor's attacks on the independent Office for Budget Responsibility, showing that the Conservative party has learned absolutely nothing. More than 12,000 farmers have been forced out of business due to Tory neglect, but we will turn that around. My hon. Friend will hear more about that in the Budget in just a minute.
Assessment
Specific actions for supporting British farming
Welcome My Hon. Friend To His Place
Talks Of Damage Done By Predecessors
Session: PMQs
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Considering the population growth and strain on GP services in Long Stratton and Hethersett, will the Department fund a neighbourhood health centre or community diagnostic centre?
Context
South Norfolk is experiencing rapid population growth, leading to increased pressure on local GP services. The government aims to expand neighbourhood health provision.
Stephen Kinnock
We are working with local NHS systems to identify the most appropriate places for new community diagnostic centres based on local need and health inequality. We have committed to deliver 120 NHCs by 2030 and 250 by 2035.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-14
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The incarceration of Jimmy Lai and the persecution of Hongkongers in the United Kingdom by China is deeply wrong and disturbing. Will the Secretary of State set out what action the UK will be taking to ensure our concerns are heard and action is taken to protect Hongkongers living in the United Kingdom?
Context
Jimmy Lai's incarceration and the persecution of Hongkongers in the UK by China are deeply concerning. The questioner seeks government action to address these issues.
Yvette Cooper
I raised the case of Jimmy Lai during my meetings in China, we will continue to raise it. We believe that he needs to be released as swiftly as possible. We take the safety of Hongkongers across the UK immensely seriously.
Session: Topical Questions
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Norfolk is home to a thriving games development community, with Norfolk games developers supporting over 500 members through mentoring, skills enhancement, and business growth, leading to an SME survival rate significantly higher than the national average. What steps are being taken by the Department to ensure that areas such as Norfolk can access and shape the video games growth package? Will the Minister meet me to discuss this matter further?
Context
The Department has rolled out a £30 million investment over three years to support the growth of the UK's video game sector. This includes expanding the UK games fund and investing in the London games festival.
Ian Murray
Delivering for all nations and regions remains a priority. The UK games fund, based in Dundee, is a UK-wide programme available to studios and teams across the country. Funding provided to the London games festival includes showcasing support for regional studios, enabling exposure to a greater audience. I am more than happy to speak to my hon. Friend to discuss the opportunities for Norfolk in detail.
Session: Video Games Industry
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Norfolk is home to a vibrant games development community that supports over 500 members through mentoring, skills enhancement, and business growth, resulting in an SME survival rate significantly higher than the UK average. What steps are being taken by the Department to ensure Norfolk can access and shape the video games growth package? Will the Minister meet me to discuss this further?
Context
The video games sector is a priority in the industrial strategy with recent investment. Norfolk has a thriving community supporting over 500 members and above-average survival rates of SMEs.
Ian Murray
Delivering for all nations and regions is a priority. The UK games fund, located in Dundee, supports studios and teams nationwide. Funding provided to the London games festival includes regional studio showcases. I am willing to speak with my hon. Friend about Norfolk's opportunities further.
Session: Video Games Industry
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One in five people face a vitamin D deficiency, with serious health impacts. The John Innes Centre is boosting vitamin D in tomatoes using gene-editing technology and the Quadrum Institute is studying its impact. Will the Minister visit Norwich research park to support the changing agritech that is supporting people to live healthier lives?
Context
The John Innes Centre in South Norfolk is using gene-editing technology to boost vitamin D in tomatoes, addressing the issue of one in five people facing a vitamin D deficiency.
Angela Eagle
We are committed to growing the agritech and engineering biology sectors, which are key to the industrial strategy. We are allocating £200 million to the farming innovation programme for this purpose. I look forward to trying to visit my hon. Friend as soon as I am out that way.
Session: Topical Questions
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My South Norfolk constituents welcome the Government’s commitment to 250 new neighbourhood health centres. For rural areas such as mine, where healthcare can be miles away, this is a real turning point. Long Stratton is a growing town, yet it is distant from Norfolk’s main health hubs. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss how delivering a neighbourhood health centre for Long Stratton will dramatically improve health outcomes in South Norfolk?
Context
The Government has committed to delivering 250 new neighbourhood health centres by 2035, aiming to improve healthcare access for remote and rural communities like South Norfolk.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
We are committed to delivering 250 centres by 2035, with a progressive roll-out over this Parliament. Early sites are focused on areas of greatest need, with consideration of factors including deprivation and access. Integrated care systems are in the process of planning the best holistic local configuration of a neighbourhood service. I would be very happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss the potential for a neighbourhood health centre for Long Stratton.
Session: Topical Questions
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Consider this a pincer movement from South Norfolk to talk about Wymondham railway station and Access for All. I have already had a productive meeting with the Minister for Rail this week. Will the Secretary of State help me to bang some heads together with Network Rail to ensure that we shorten the sidings so that Wyndham station can provide easy access for all?
Context
Wymondham railway station is a focus for improving accessibility.
Heidi Alexander
My hon. Friend has spoken to me and the Minister for Rail about Wymondham accessibility issues. I thank him for his hugely pragmatic and practical approach to working out how we can fund an affordable scheme there. I will say more about the Access for All programme in the coming weeks, and I will be sure to stay in touch with him on that particular issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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Heritage crime is a huge issue in rural communities like mine. My constituency boast some of the jewels in England’s crown—Roman town Venta Icenorum, Wymondham Abbey and the wooden henge in Arminghall—which puts us more at risk of heritage crime. Will the Minister meet me to discuss how we can train scrap metal dealers to be more aware of the damage that it does, and how might we record the statistics more appropriately so that we can give police the resources they need?
Context
Rural communities like those with Roman town Venta Icenorum, Wymondham Abbey and the wooden henge in Arminghall are at risk of heritage crime. Scrap metal dealers need to be more aware of the damage this does.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
My hon. Friend is lucky to have such wonderful places in his constituency. Of course I will meet him—this is a very important matter. We are supporting the work of Historic England on a number of issues to tackle heritage crime, but I am sure that we can go further, and I look forward to talking to him about it.
Session: Rural Crime
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Christmas is coming and the goose is getting fat—or it would be if we had not had such a terrible year for avian influenza. The poultry sector is worth £1.5 billion gross value added to our UK economy. As much as I welcome the investment going into Harlow for the national biosecurity centre, will the Minister tell us what action we are taking to make sure that we have more veterinary surgeons located in the area where the problems are being found?
Context
The poultry sector contributes £1.5 billion to the UK economy but is facing challenges due to avian flu outbreaks.
Angela Eagle
I pay tribute to the farmers in my hon. Friend’s constituency in the awful situation they face. We are closely monitoring the outbreak and have taken action to eradicate disease by putting in place control zones, tracing movements and issuing a proactive housing order. I am more than happy to talk to him about what we can do to ensure that we have the appropriate level of veterinary response.
Session: DEFRA Policies Impact on Farming Communities
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Norfolk has a proud and enduring history in the defence of our islands and our allies, from Nelson’s legacy to the RAF bases that welcome NATO personnel to this very day. What assessment has the Minister made of how Norfolk’s defence assets can further support our shared security with our NATO partners?
Context
Norfolk has a significant history in military operations and is home to RAF Marham, which plays a crucial role in the UK’s airpower. The question seeks an assessment of how Norfolk’s defence resources can support NATO.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Al Carns)
I thank my hon. Friend for the opportunity to acknowledge the vital military history and work of Norfolk. Whether defending the UK from zeppelin raids in world war one or serving as a frontline bomber command in world war two, RAF Marham has long been a cornerstone of our UK’s airpower. We are investing in RAF Marham, procuring multiple F-35 jets that will fly from the base. Those will strengthen NATO’s nuclear deterrence posture and add huge paths over to my hon. Friend’s constituency.
Session: NATO European Security
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After 16 months of a Labour Government, the share of adults in Norfolk seen by a dentist has risen from barely scraping 30% to well over 40%—lots done, but lots more to be done. The University of East Anglia proposed a dental school as part of the solution. Will the Minister work with Department for Education colleagues to ensure that the Office for Students and other bodies give it the green light?
Context
The share of adults in Norfolk seen by a dentist has risen from barely scraping 30% to well over 40% since the Labour Government took office, but there is still more work to be done. The University of East Anglia proposed establishing a dental school as part of the solution.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
I, too, am absolutely delighted that more patients can see a dentist in Norfolk but, as my hon. Friend says, there is a long way to go. We are certainly not complacent, but we are showing that it is possible to turn things around. I am also pleased that the University of East Anglia has been approved as a dental school by the General Dental Council. The Office for Students has statutory responsibility for allocating dental school places, but I fully agree that UEA would be a good candidate for any additional Government-funded places allocated in future.
Session: NHS Dental Services Norfolk
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In rural constituencies like South Norfolk, I can think of no better place for employment than our pubs. From the Wheel of Fortune in Alpington to the Angel Inn in Loddon, these pubs are not just vital hubs of our communities but drivers of economic growth. In fact, Mr Speaker, you are more than welcome to join my Christmas pub team on 13 December. What support are the Government putting in place to help those businesses provide decent employment?
Context
Rural pubs in South Norfolk are vital hubs of the community and drivers of economic growth.
Peter Kyle
I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s question— I am glad he got in today. I can assure him that we are working closely with pubs. We want pubs to be at the beating heart of communities up and down the country. We know we have inherited a challenging environment for pubs. We listen to them and will be acting.
Session: Topical Questions
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As a proud member of the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers and formerly the youngest deputy store manager for Halford’s in the east of England, I know at first hand the fear that shoplifting causes to retail workers. What action is my hon. Friend taking to ensure that the police have the powers they need to use the full force of the law to tackle those who steal from our shops?
Context
The MP referenced his personal experience as a deputy store manager and union member, highlighting the fear shoplifting causes to retail workers.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Every Member of Parliament hears about this issue, and knows how distressing it is. The intimidation of shop workers must stop, and the thieves who target shops and are stealing to order must be targeted. We are repealing the legislation that makes shop theft of and below £200 a summary-only offence, which will send a clear message that we will not tolerate this crime.
Session: Shoplifting
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May I ask for a meeting with him and my hon. Friend the Member for Norwich North (Alice Macdonald), so that we can talk about our discussions with local employees?
Context
The over 1,000 employees at the Lotus plant in South Norfolk and Norwich North are vital to their constituencies.
Jonathan Reynolds
I can absolutely guarantee my hon. Friend that we will have that meeting. I appreciate the work that we have been able to do together, reacting to the media reports that initially surfaced. There is some clarity from the company, but not the full degree of clarity that we need. I will make sure that we get that meeting set up for him and his colleagues.
Session: Topical Questions
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What action will the Government be taking to stop these rip-off practices and support my residents in South Norfolk?
Context
The MP highlighted a 60% hike in fees from the residential management group for unutilized playgrounds, described as a rip-off practice.
Matthew Pennycook
My hon. Friend raises a matter that I know is of concern to hon. Members across the House. It is precisely to protect residential freeholders in Hethersett and other freehold estates across the country from unfair charges that we will consult in the near future on how we implement the consumer protection provisions in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 relating to the payment of estate management charges.
Session: Topical Questions
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Some 3,537 of my constituents in South Norfolk are veterans. Being a veteran in a rural community is very different from being one in an urban community. What action are the Government taking to ensure that my veterans have the support they need?
Context
Concern about the unique challenges faced by veterans living in rural communities, such as South Norfolk.
Al Carns
As I have mentioned several times today, the Valour programme will accommodate that. It will not be a service that is a blueprint for everyone, but we will take the geographical differences into account and ensure that it is fit for purpose so that our veterans are given the deal that they deserve.
Session: Topical Questions
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Following the bluetongue issues, will we look to lower our biosecurity risks by returning to checking products at Bastion Point inland border security centre instead of having them travel nearly 17 miles for checks?
Context
The UK's bluetongue outbreak and the impact of inland border security measures on biosecurity.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
My hon. Friend's points about border controls and checks are under close consideration, partly due to our new arrangements with the EU. His suggestion is being looked at closely as a consequence of these changes.
Session: Animal Disease Outbreaks
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Children at Wreningham and Brooke primary schools receive a first-class education but continue to be taught from portacabins. I thank the Minister for agreeing to meet me previously. Could he visit these two amazing schools?
Context
Two primary schools, Wreningham and Brooke, are still operating from portacabins due to previous government investment limitations.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Stephen Morgan)
The Government do not want any school to be left behind, including those in rural communities. We have invested significantly this year with almost £5.5 million for Norfolk county council to improve its estate, including Wreningham and Brooke primary schools. I look forward to meeting my hon. Friend.
Session: School Estate
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We are very good at growing things in South Norfolk, including food, businesses and thriving communities. However, if we want our young people to share in that success, we need to plant a new town in my constituency. Will the Minister meet me to discuss how we will achieve that?
Context
There is a need for more housing and development in South Norfolk.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
I do not blame my hon. Friend for trying, but for good reason we established an independent expert advisory panel—the new towns taskforce—to make recommendations to Ministers on the location and delivery of new towns. The taskforce will submit its final report to Ministers in the coming months.
Session: Topical Questions
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The housing crisis is a challenge across England, not just in city centres but also in rural communities like South Norfolk, where we need to address local housing needs with affordable homes. Would my right hon. Friend consider establishing a new town in South Norfolk to tackle this issue?
Context
Asks about the housing crisis in both city centres and rural areas. Mentions South Norfolk as an area needing affordable housing.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Angela Rayner)
I agree with my hon. Friend that the housing crisis is widespread in England. The independent new towns taskforce is reviewing submissions to their call for evidence to recommend locations for new towns. This process highlights significant enthusiasm across the country.
Session: New Towns
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Norfolk’s economy, to fire on all cylinders, needs a decent rural road network. The Thickthorn junction in my constituency is outdated and urgently needs upgrading to support growth and unlock new homes. Will the Minister back the project and visit to see at first hand why the Government should put Norfolk at the heart of our investment plans?
Context
The MP is concerned about the outdated Thickthorn junction in his constituency which needs upgrading to support economic growth and unlock new homes.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Lilian Greenwood)
My hon. Friend is a fantastic champion for the needs of his rural constituents. The central mission of this Government is to support economic growth, and this is one of a number of road investments under consideration. In the past week, we have approved upgrades to four major road projects across England. On the specific scheme, I hope to be able to say more in the coming weeks, and perhaps I will be visiting his constituency.
Session: Transport Infrastructure Rural Communities
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Conservative-run Norfolk county council's Norwich western link road is costing taxpayers £27,000 per day. Does my hon. Friend agree that the Norfolk Tories give us Liz Truss not just in Whitehall, but in county hall?
Context
The Norwich western link road is a local development that has incurred significant daily costs without producing tangible results.
Darren Jones
The Government will support local authorities to deliver road enhancements for economic growth. The Norwich western link road is currently under a planning application.
Session: Topical Questions
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In 2021, the UK exported £9.1 billion-worth of creative goods and £45.6 billion-worth of creative services, but we can and must do better. May I press the Secretary of State on what she is doing to support the creative industries' co-ordinated strategy for growth?
Context
The UK exported significant amounts of creative goods and services but faces challenges in sustaining growth.
Lisa Nandy
You can see how eager we are, Mr Speaker. We are champing at the bit to support the creative industries. As my hon. Friend the Member for South Norfolk (Ben Goldsborough) will know, we have announced a series of measures over the last few months to support these industries, including tax credits for independent film and special effects. We are broadening the curriculum to ensure that there is a pathway enabling young people to work in the creative industries, and we have held an international investment summit, to which the industries were central. We will be announcing more in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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In Long Stratton, there is a beloved former local authority building called South Norfolk House. It has won numerous awards for its innovative architecture and its ahead-of-its-time design focus on energy efficiency, but it has been refused listed status. This could be a fantastic community asset for the town; it could be an arts hub. Will the Minister meet me to discuss its future?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the difficulty community groups face in securing listed status for historically significant buildings, impacting their ability to preserve heritage and repurpose structures. In Long Stratton, there is a beloved former local authority building called South Norfolk House.
Chris Bryant
I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend. I always have to be a little bit careful about decisions that might end up coming to me, in case I have queered the pitch. Many community groups up and down the land have tried to do precisely the same thing: bring a historical building back into community use. Obviously, we want to support that wherever possible, where it is sustainable in the long term.
Session: Listed Building Status Community Groups
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What steps her Department is taking to help support community groups to secure listed status for buildings. In Long Stratton, there is a beloved former local authority building called South Norfolk House. It has won numerous awards for its innovative architecture and its ahead-of-its-time design focus on energy efficiency, but it has been refused listed status. This could be a fantastic community asset for the town; it could be an arts hub.
Context
The question arises from concerns about the difficulty community groups face in securing listed status for historically significant buildings, impacting their ability to preserve heritage and repurpose structures.
Chris Bryant
Historic England assesses applications for listing. I want that process to be as simple as possible for community groups up and down the land, so they can steer a balance between preserving what is truly valuable and leaving communities with decaying, listed eyesores. I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend. Many community groups up and down the land have tried to do precisely the same thing: bring a historical building back into community use. Obviously, we want to support that wherever possible, where it is sustainable in the long term.
Session: Listed Building Status Community Groups
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Next year will mark the 180th anniversary of Wymondham train station. A great birthday present for my station would be to make it accessible to everyone. Will the Minister meet me and the Wymondham access group to ensure that we can deliver that for the future?
Context
Wymondham train station is not accessible to all, and its 180th anniversary approaches.
Louise Haigh
Sure thing.
Session: Topical Questions
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As a proud member of the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers, I want to raise with the Minister the amazing work that it has done to produce the estimate that around three quarters of workers in typically low-paid sectors are paid weekly, fortnightly or four-weekly, rather than monthly. That is not recognised by universal credit. Will the Minister promise to meet USDAW and other trade unions to make sure that this matter is investigated?
Context
USDAW has produced an estimate that around three quarters of workers in typically low-paid sectors are paid weekly, fortnightly or four-weekly rather than monthly.
Stephen Timms
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. If a person is paid four-weekly, they receive 13 payments a year, so in one of the 12 monthly assessment periods each year, they are paid twice. That means that they probably get no universal credit that month, which completely messes up budgeting. I would be delighted to meet USDAW, and perhaps my hon. Friend, to discuss what we can do through our review of universal credit.
Session: Topical Questions
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Only nine out of thirty-two prison education institutions were judged 'good' or 'outstanding'. Less than 40% of prisoners take courses up to GCSE level. Does the hon. Friend agree we must improve prison education for better rehabilitation?
Context
A May 2022 report revealed only nine of 32 inspected prison education institutions were rated 'good' or 'outstanding', with less than 40% of prisoners taking courses up to GCSE level. This raises concerns about prisoner rehabilitation.
Nicholas Dakin
My hon. Friend is right: the quality of prison education must continually improve if we are to achieve the best possible rehabilitation outcomes.
Session: Topical Questions
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The bluetongue outbreak at Haddiscoe is concerning, and it's crucial that the APHA has sufficient resources for quick testing. Will my right hon. Friend meet me to discuss this urgent matter?
Context
A bluetongue outbreak is serious and requires swift testing by the Animal and Plant Health Agency.
Steve Reed
I am happy to ensure that the relevant Minister meets my hon. Friend, but I note that APHA and other authorities are doing a good job right now of containing this worrying incident.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister meet to discuss reforming the single justice procedure to ensure better oversight and accountability?
Context
A widow was prosecuted for £3.34 after her car tax expired, highlighting issues with the single justice procedure.
Heidi Alexander
The Minister is keen to keep under review how to support vulnerable defendants and improve oversight of organisations using the single justice procedure. A meeting with the hon. Friend is welcomed.
Session: Topical Questions
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The hon. Lady will be well aware of the recent fires in east London and the fact that many high-rise buildings in this country are still not deemed safe because developers are refusing to do what they should. What action will she take to force developers to make buildings safe for residents?
Context
Recent fires in east London have highlighted the issue of unsafe high-rise buildings. Many residents are still waiting for their buildings to be made safe.
Rushanara Ali
I know the hon. Gentleman did a great deal of work on this agenda in the last Parliament. This week, more than seven years after the Grenfell tragedy, the community will receive the public inquiry's final report, and I hope its findings will help to provide the truth that the bereaved and survivors deserve.
Session: New Build Homes Construction Standards
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Residents in both Hethersett and Loddon have fallen victim to new homes being built to poor standards, shattering their dreams of home ownership from day one. Does my hon. Friend agree that on our ambition to deliver 1.5 million new homes, they must be 1.5 million decently built new homes?
Context
The Building Safety Act requires building safety and standards to be reviewed regularly. Concerns about poor-quality construction have been raised, affecting residents' dreams of home ownership.
Rushanara Ali
As my hon. Friend says, this Government are committed to delivering 1.5 million quality homes over this Parliament to ensure that people have access to high-quality housing. New build homebuyers must feel confident that their new home is safe, and this Government are committed to improving redress for homebuyers when things go wrong.
Session: New Build Homes Construction Standards
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Under the Conservatives, rural crime rocketed by 22% and cost our economy an estimated £49.5 million; what action will be taken to address this issue?
Context
Rural crime under the Conservative government increased by 22%, costing the UK economy £49.5 million annually, according to National Farmers Union figures.
Diana R. Johnson
The Government recognise the importance of tackling rural crime; we are committed to safeguarding rural communities with tougher measures against antisocial behaviour, strengthening neighbourhood policing, and implementing stronger laws against farm theft and fly-tipping. The national rural crime unit provides police forces with specialist operational support for crimes such as machinery and livestock theft.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Firearms Licensing
23 February 2026
Responding: Sarah Jones
Main Concerns
['The speaker is concerned about the need for legislative reform to ensure safety while protecting the shooting industry and rural economy. He highlights that strong views exist on both sides of the issue, but there is a broad agreement on the necessity for legislative change. The debate touches upon gun violence statistics in England and Wales, noting 4,851 firearms offences recorded in the year ending September 2025, with more than 60% of women killed by guns using licensed firearms. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the risks associated with domestic abuse and mental health challenges in rural communities.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the government to ensure that any proposed changes are accompanied by robust economic modelling, including an analysis of the potential impact on rural businesses, employment, and participation. He also suggests taking clear steps to strengthen safety without imposing unnecessary burdens, such as ensuring licensing decisions are informed by full information and embracing digital technology to reduce delays.']
Russian Influence on UK Politics and Democracy
09 February 2026
Responding: Dan Jarvis
Main Concerns
["The petition received 114,704 signatures, highlighting concerns over Russian interference in UK politics. The case of Nathan Gill, who took £40,000 bribes to make pro-Russian speeches and interviews, is a major cause for concern. Boris Johnson's relationship with Lord Lebedev, whose father was a KGB officer, raises questions about trustworthiness. Experts warn that Russia employs at least 500 political technologists engaged in information warfare, posing a significant threat through social media disinformation campaigns. The Electoral Commission is seen as toothless and unable to tackle the issue effectively."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should consider mandating funding disclosures for UK-based think-tanks and develop digital tools to prevent cryptocurrency bribery and corruption. A single agency responsible for identifying, tracking, and defending against disinformation is needed. Investment in critical thinking education and media literacy must be prioritised to equip future generations with the skills to counteract disinformation.']
Video Games: Consumer Law
03 November 2025
Responding: Stephanie Peacock
Main Concerns
['The debate addresses the concerns of nearly 190,000 petition signatories regarding consumer law and videogames. It highlights issues such as game shut-downs without clear notice, loss of investment when a game shuts down, and the cultural impact on communities and heritage.']
Specific Asks
['Gamers should be informed if a game is likely to go offline and provided with offline modes where possible. Clear notice periods for closures and appropriate refunds should also be ensured.']
Indefinite Leave to Remain
08 September 2025
Responding: Alex Norris
Main Concerns
['The petitions have gathered 164,000 and 108,000 signatures respectively. Many skilled workers are close to completing their five-year pathway for indefinite leave to remain and feel uncertain about the future due to potential changes.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Government to ensure clarity on the earned settlement scheme and conduct an economic impact assessment of the proposed changes to the skilled worker pathway.']
Inheritance Tax Relief: Farms
10 February 2025
Responding: James Murray
Main Concerns
['The petition regarding Inheritance Tax relief for working farms has received just shy of 150,000 signatures. The proposed policy changes are argued to devastate farms nationwide, forcing families to sell land and assets. Campaigns by the NFU, CLA, and others have effectively engaged public sentiment on this issue.']
Specific Asks
['The debate aims to reflect calm, thoughtful consideration of a complex problem with potential solutions for farmers. It is crucial that discussions are not sensationalist but based on rational arguments presented by farmers and MPs.']
Biosecurity
04 December 2024
Responding: Daniel Zeichner
Main Concerns
['The speaker is concerned about the impact of new diseases thriving in the UK due to climate change and interconnected supply chains, which undermine food security and economic growth. He mentions specific biosecurity threats such as the bluetongue outbreak that began in Haddiscoe on August 26th, affecting multiple counties by mid-November. The 2022-23 avian influenza outbreak caused mass sea bird die-offs and widespread protection zones. Farmers have struggled to obtain insurance cover for avian influenza outbreaks, threatening the viability of the poultry industry.']
Specific Asks
['The speaker asks the Minister to meet him to discuss measures against price deductions for farmers within restriction zones and investigate state-backed schemes to support affected farmers returning to the poultry industry post-outbreak. He also requests that the Minister reassesses border controls on meat and livestock imports, outlines further steps to prevent an African swine fever outbreak in the UK, and provides updates on actions supporting the British sugar industry.']
Bluetongue Virus in Livestock
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Church Commissioners
18 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Processed Russian Oil Products: Sanctions
20 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Government Procurement Strategy
22 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East: Economic Update
21 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Foreign Financial Influence and Interference: UK Politics
25 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Heating Oil Support
16 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East: Economic Update
09 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Immigration Policy
09 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Energy Markets
05 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Water Quality on the River Yare
29 January 2026
The petition addresses the poor water quality of the River Yare, which is putting wildlife and people at risk.
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Allotments in Wymondham
28 October 2025
The petitioners are concerned about the loss of allotment plots in Wymondham due to Anglian Water ending its lease agreement with the town council.
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Allotments in Wymondham
29 April 2025
The petition concerns the potential loss of allotment land in Wymondham due to Anglian Water ending its lease, which would affect decades of community gardening and social connections.
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Haddiscoe gravel pit application
11 March 2025
The petitioners are concerned about a potential future gravel pit near Crab Apple Lane in Haddiscoe, which was previously rejected due to environmental and quality-of-life concerns such as harm to Gra...
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Haddiscoe gravel pit application
21 January 2025
The petition addresses concerns about a proposed gravel pit near Crab Apple Lane in Haddiscoe, South Norfolk, which residents believe could harm local health and well-being due to air pollution, noise...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
62.2%
61 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
17
17.3% of votes
No Votes
44
44.9% of votes
Abstentions
37
37.8% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
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
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
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
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
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
2
PMQs Asked
33
Ministerial Questions Asked
36
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
5
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-45% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+146% above average
This MP:
33
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+641% above average
This MP:
36
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+104% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-10% below average
This MP:
62.2
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 Ben Goldsborough's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.