Ben Maguire
MP for North Cornwall
Lib Dem
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
North Cornwall is an amazing place to live and work, but a top-down approach from Westminster has failed us. Public services are chronically underfunded, with young people forced to move away to pursue careers elsewhere, and affordable housing is a promise that is simply never kept. Will the Prime Minister meet all six Cornish MPs to discuss devolution for Cornwall, with a Cornish assembly that recognises our unique culture, language and national minority status, so that we can finally unleash Cornwall's economic potential?
Context
Public services in North Cornwall are underfunded, with young people moving away and a lack of affordable housing. The question seeks devolution for Cornwall to unlock economic potential through a Cornish assembly.
Keir Starmer
I am grateful to the hon. Member for raising that. I do believe in transferring power out of Westminster and into the hands of leaders who know their communities best. Those with skin in the game know what is best for their communities. We are already making steps in the south-west by signing the devolution agreement for Devon and Torbay, and I encourage local authorities to work with their neighbours to pursue deeper and wider devolution for their area. I will ensure that the hon. Member has the meeting that he is asking for.
Session: PMQs
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To protect its profits, Wain Homes is now backing out of £350,000 of promised infrastructure funding in my town of Bodmin. But with more than 3,000 homes to be built by 2030, Bodmin now faces an infrastructure emergency. Will the Minister please consider greater control over infrastructure levies, like that enjoyed by other local authorities, as part of Cornwall's bespoke devolution package?
Context
Wain Homes has withdrawn £350,000 of promised infrastructure funding in Bodmin, which is expected to see over 3,000 new homes by 2030. This situation has created an infrastructure emergency, and the MP seeks greater control over infrastructure levies for Cornwall.
Matthew Pennycook
My colleagues on the Front Bench will have heard the hon. Member's request on the devolution offer that needs to be made to Cornwall. He cited a case where the developers backed out of their commitments: specifically on developer contributions, I should say that communities rightly expect necessary infrastructure to be provided and any commitments made to be met. Section 106 planning obligations help, obviously, to mitigate the impacts of a development proposal. They are legally binding and enforceable. If he wants to write to me with the particular circumstances of the case, he is more than welcome to do so.
Session: New Housing Infrastructure 2026-09-07
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What steps her Department is taking to ensure that adequate infrastructure is provided for new housing developments. Local planning authorities face challenges in providing necessary infrastructure, and the government's role in supporting them is questioned.
Context
The MP is concerned about the adequacy of infrastructure to support new housing developments, which is a critical issue for sustainable growth and resident well-being.
Matthew Pennycook
Local planning authorities are expected to plan effectively for infrastructure provision through local development plans and infrastructure funding statements. To support them, the Government have strengthened national planning policy in respect of community facilities and public service infrastructure, and we provide direct financial support for essential infrastructure in areas of greatest housing demand through land and infrastructure funding programmes.
Session: New Housing Infrastructure 2026-09-07
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By what metrics will the Solicitor General measure success of £5 million investment in CPS pre-trial support? What specific outcomes do the Government expect?
Context
CPS data shows a reduction in victim attrition but no improvements in charging rates or prosecution performance.
Ellie Reeves
£5 million is allocated to enable victims of domestic abuse in Crown courts to meet prosecution teams before trials and benefit from dedicated liaison officers. Metrics include attrition rates, faster case handling through charging pilots like in Wales, reducing time between charges and court appearances.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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I welcome reducing red tape but I need details. Hannah Willow's art businesses saw 30% of their European sales drop to 10%. 10%. Tariffs on trade led to a decline in US exports by 20%, and starting July, items under €150 entering the EU will incur customs duty and a flat fee per item. Will the Government negotiate a bespoke customs union as proposed by Liberal Democrats?
Context
Art businesses in North Cornwall have seen a significant decline in European sales due to tariffs post-Brexit, with further impact from the removal of de minimis threshold for imports.
Chris Bryant
I am not going to take any ideas from the Lib Dems on this matter. We maintain our position as the second-largest art market in the world by negotiating better agreements, including with the EU. Tarquin's Cornish Gin is doing well and winning awards internationally.
Session: SMEs European Trade
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What steps his Department is taking to help small and medium-sized businesses trade with European nations. I am concerned about my constituent Hannah Willow's art businesses which saw European sales drop from 30% to 10% post-Brexit, and now face further customs duty on items under €150 entering the EU. Will the Government negotiate a bespoke customs union as proposed by Liberal Democrats?
Context
Small and medium-sized enterprises in North Cornwall have seen a decline in European trade post-Brexit, with tariffs impacting sales to both Europe and the US.
Chris Bryant
I am not going to take any ideas from the Lib Dems on this matter. We maintain our position as the second-largest art market in the world by negotiating better agreements, including with the EU. Tarquin's Cornish Gin is doing well and winning awards internationally.
Session: SMEs European Trade
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I am concerned about the ongoing legal aid deserts in Cornwall, exacerbated by geographical isolation and lack of transportation. According to the Law Society, a third of domestic abuse survivors have been compelled to self-represent due to stringent eligibility requirements that impede access to necessary support. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss raising the income threshold for the legal aid means test in line with inflation and removing the capital assets requirement entirely to ensure victims of economic abuse can seek justice?
Context
Cornwall faces significant legal aid deserts due to rurality and transport issues. The Law Society reports that one-third of domestic abuse survivors are forced to represent themselves in court because eligibility criteria often prevent them from accessing legal aid.
David Lammy
It is crucial that those in need of legal aid, particularly rural communities and victims of domestic abuse, are able to access it. We collaborate with the market to address localized pressures through a combination of face-to-face, telephone, and remote advice services. I will ensure that a meeting takes place between the hon. Gentleman and the Minister.
Session: Topical Questions
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If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities.
Context
The question asks about the Justice Secretary's responsibilities and progress since the last parliamentary session.
David Lammy
Since the last Justice questions, the Victims and Courts Act 2026 and the Crime and Policing Act 2026 have received Royal Assent. In the Gracious Speech, His Majesty the King confirmed that we will proceed with the Courts and Tribunals Bill to address the Crown court backlog and deliver swifter justice for victims. We remain committed to a Hillsborough law to bring in a duty of candour for public service and rebuild confidence in the justice system.
Session: Topical Questions
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Successive Governments have handed public contracts worth hundreds of millions of pounds to the US tech firm Palantir, including the Ministry of Defence and NHS England, for a procurement process that many clinicians and other experts say completely lacks transparency. That is not to mention Palantir's horrifying surveillance of Palestinians on behalf of the Israel Defence Forces, as well as its unethical involvement with United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Does the Minister accept the huge risks of outsourcing our sensitive information contracts to such amoral American data leeches, and when will the Government prioritise more secure British-based alternatives?
Context
Public contracts worth hundreds of millions were handed to US tech firm Palantir, raising concerns about transparency and ethical issues.
Chris Ward
As I have said, one aim of the Government's procurement reforms is to ensure that we support more British companies and end the reliance on external suppliers. The two Palantir contracts that the hon. Gentleman mentions are for the NHS and defence, so it is best to take the matter up with the Department of Health and Social Care and the Ministry of Defence, which are the relevant Departments.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last week marked three years since Sudan's ongoing civil war began. What are the Government doing to combat obstruction of aid delivery by Rapid Support Forces and other warring factions?
Context
Sudan faces a civil war, famine affecting millions and displacement of around 14 million people. Aid delivery is obstructed by warring factions.
Yvette Cooper
We discussed this issue at the Berlin conference. We urge all parties to allow humanitarian access.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given that it is Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, what assessments have been made of how the judge-only proposals will affect vulnerable victims of domestic abuse?
Context
The question is asked during Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, highlighting concerns about the effect of judge-only proposals on victims of domestic abuse.
The Solicitor General
There are transparency measures built in to safeguard justice, with judges setting out reasons for their verdicts and introducing recording in the magistrates courts.
Session: Jury Trials
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Serious reforms should focus on reducing inefficiencies that waste sitting days, increasing court capacity and making use of vacant courtrooms, not scrapping the right to trial by jury. If the proposals are intended to reduce the Crown court backlog, should this House not be given clear evidence before core constitutional protections are weakened? Will the Solicitor General please tell us whether the Government will publish an estimate of what proportion of current Crown court backlog would be sent to judge-only trials as a result of the reforms?
Context
Jury trials are a fundamental pillar of the justice system, but under proposed court reforms, they may be scrapped. The MP is concerned about the erosion of this right.
The Solicitor General
The proposed changes would apply to less than 2% of all criminal trial cases. Under the reforms, almost three quarters of trial cases coming to the Crown court would still be heard by a jury, and that includes offences such as rape.
Session: Jury Trials
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Following my question on the legal aid means test for domestic abuse victims, I want to highlight the danger that scrapping jury trials for sentences under three years poses for domestic abuse cases. The complex nature of these cases requires the breadth of perspective and understanding provided by jury trials. What assessment will the Solicitor General make of the impact reducing jury trials will have on such cases?
Context
The MP highlights the concerns raised about reducing jury trials for sentences under three years, particularly in relation to domestic abuse cases. The MP mentions a legal aid clinic's report on a judge's conduct towards a woman seeking justice against her abuser.
Solicitor General
The Government are committed to supporting survivors of domestic abuse and ensuring they have access to justice. I visited a specialist domestic abuse court based at Westminster magistrates court, which supports survivors and helps cases get through the courts quickly. Survivors who bravely report crimes need help; alongside reforms, we are introducing a package of support for victims. The Government’s cross-party strategy on violence against women and girls will be published today.
Session: Jury Trials
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I thank the Minister for that response. Would she please join me in congratulating Coodes Solicitors, which provides a weekly pro bono surgery to my constituents in Bodmin? Firms such as Coodes face, in its own words, so much unnecessary bureaucracy and hoops to jump through when providing legal aid. As the Minister highlights, I understand that the Government have made some progress towards making the financial investment in the system that is needed, but is she aware of the incredible burden of this needless bureaucracy and will she please commit to simplifying public funding contracts?
Context
Coodes Solicitors provides a weekly pro bono service in Bodmin, facing significant bureaucratic hurdles despite government investment in legal aid. The MP highlights the need to simplify public funding contracts.
The Minister for Courts and Legal Services (Sarah Sackman)
I thank the hon. Member for his question, and I commend all lawyers who provide pro bono support to their clients, which is incredibly commendable. However, it is ultimately a sticking-plaster and no substitute for a well-functioning legal aid system. That is why, as well as increasing fees, we are investing in the transformation of the IT digital platform to enable providers to cut through some of that red tape.
Session: Legal Aid
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I kindly ask the Chancellor to please respond to my joint letter on Cornwall’s future funding, sent last week, which asks her to meet all Cornish MPs without delay. Alternative proposals to this damaging family farm tax—such as a clawback scheme, as proposed by the NFU, or increasing the threshold to £5 million—would raise more in revenue than the Government’s current plans. In contrast to her speech this morning, the Chancellor now has the opportunity to do both the right thing and the popular thing. The mental health toll on farmers is becoming completely unsustainable, so please, Chancellor, rethink this damaging policy.
Context
Farmers have requested alternative proposals such as a clawback scheme or increasing the threshold to £5 million, which would raise more revenue than current plans while addressing concerns about mental health toll on farmers.
Dan Tomlinson
I would be happy to meet the hon. Member and Members from across Cornwall to discuss the issues raised in the letter to the Chancellor.
Session: Agricultural and Business Property Relief Impact on Farmers
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Child poverty cannot be tackled if children have nowhere safe to live. One of the most shameful legacies of the last Tory Government was Cornwall being left with more than 700 children living in temporary accommodation, while only 1.4% of homes are now affordable to families receiving the local housing allowance. What assessment has the Minister made of the extent to which that shortfall in affordable homes is driving child poverty rates even higher, and what urgent steps will he take to reverse it?
Context
Cornwall faces high levels of child poverty, with more than 700 children living in temporary accommodation. Only 1.4% of homes are affordable to families receiving the local housing allowance.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
The hon. Gentleman is right to highlight the appalling living standards and conditions in which some children—and, indeed, some members of the broader population—find themselves living. My advice to any Liberal Democrat Member would of course be to stop blocking the homes that we so desperately need. Let me also remind the hon. Gentleman that this Government have invested £39 billion in the delivery of social and affordable homes, because, unlike the Liberal Democrats, the Labour party is determined to tackle the housing crisis and to “build, baby, build”.
Session: Child Poverty Cornwall
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The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster has Cabinet oversight, but who does the Duchy of Cornwall answer to and what recourse do my constituents have in this case?
Context
Residents in a housing development face issues due to a developer's bankruptcy, with the Duchy of Cornwall now owning parts of the communal land. The constituent needs to purchase the land back and cover legal costs.
Darren Jones
If the hon. Member writes to me with his constituency case, I will make sure that the Duchy of Cornwall looks at it in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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The town of Bodmin in my constituency is fast becoming the museum capital of Cornwall. It has the excellent Discovering42 science museum, Bodmin Town museum, and the Army museum at Bodmin Keep, which is crowdfunding to stay open. What is the Minister doing to support those brilliant smaller museums that have such huge economic, social and educational value?
Context
Bodmin, a town in Ben Maguire's constituency, is facing economic and social challenges as several small museums seek to survive due to the impending end of the shared prosperity fund.
Ian Murray
This Government applaud and support the role that museums play in educating and inspiring audiences across every part of the country. Last week, we announced that 75 museum groups around the country will benefit from an additional £20 million of funding as part of the Museum Renewal Fund, delivered by Arts Council England. Together with our new £25 million investment in regional museums via the aptly named Museum Estate and Development Fund to be announced in the new year, that represents a considerable show of support for local museums across the country.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps is the Secretary of State taking to support the building of social housing in rural towns and villages? Cornwall faces a significant challenge with 25,000 families on the housing waiting list. Many constituents have been left without necessary infrastructure due to developers going into liquidation before fulfilling their commitments.
Context
Cornwall has been given an ambitious annual target of 4,400 homes. There are 25,000 families on the housing waiting list.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Steve Reed)
I certainly recognise the problem described by the hon. Member; it is an issue in North Cornwall and right across the country. The government is looking at how we can strengthen enforcement so that commitments made are delivered on, and local communities are not left high and dry without vital infrastructure.
Session: New Social Housing Rural Towns and Villages
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The newly built Launceston primary school in my constituency was demolished and then rebuilt, costing millions of pounds because of serious defects in the building. The contractor at fault went into administration. Unfortunately, this is far from a stand-alone case; it is happening across the country. Individual developers are putting their companies into liquidation and then setting up a new one, evading their obligations to finish vital infrastructure such as roads and sewage works. Such cases often leave Government Departments, homeowners and the British taxpayer out of pocket. What steps is the Serious Fraud Office taking to tackle these all-too-common cases, and will the Solicitor General please consider new legislation to prevent such developers from getting away with such serious fraud?
Context
A newly built primary school in Mr. Maguire's constituency was demolished and rebuilt due to serious defects, costing millions of pounds. The contractor at fault went into administration.
The Solicitor General
I am sorry to hear about the position that the hon. Member’s constituents have been put in. It is a terrible example, which I am sure needs to be looked at much more closely. As he knows, the Serious Fraud Office is operationally independent. As a highly specialist agency, it takes on a number of complex economic crime cases each year. The case he raises may be one for it; it may also be one for Action Fraud. I am more than happy to examine it further and to raise it with the appropriate agency.
Session: Economic Crime
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My constituents, Mr and Mrs Greathead, supply products to UK and Europe but have faced difficulties due to Brexit. Will the Minister look into these barriers and excessive red tape?
Context
Constituents face difficulties and costs in trading with Europe.
Gareth Thomas
I sympathise with the hon. Member's constituents on their challenges, including issues with HMRC tariffs. He may want to contact my colleague, Exchequer Secretary to Treasury, for further assistance on HMRC matters.
Session: Topical Questions
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After years of broken promises by the Conservatives, this Government have finally confirmed this week that the Camelford bypass project will not go ahead. Having anticipated that for some time, I have already started working with local stakeholders on a plan B. Will the Roads Minister meet me to discuss an alternative way forward?
Context
The Camelford bypass project will not go ahead.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Lilian Greenwood)
I am aware that at least the certainty of a decision was welcomed by the hon. Gentleman, and I appreciate that. The Department is happy to discuss any alternative plans with him and with Cornwall council. We have met before, and I am very happy to meet him again.
Session: Topical Questions
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It was good to see Doncaster Regional Airport recently attract £30 million from this Government. The public service obligation flight route between Newquay airport and Gatwick is a vital regional connection between Cornwall and the capital, but with the current service ending in July, it is now up for renewal. Will the Minister please meet me as a matter of urgency to ensure that this vital link remains in place?
Context
There is a public service obligation (PSO) flight route between Newquay airport and Gatwick that is vital for regional connectivity. The current PSO ends in July, and there are concerns about its renewal.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mike Kane)
Public service obligations are vital for connecting the UK economy, and I think we currently have three. I would be more than happy to meet the hon. Member to discuss the one affecting his constituency.
Session: Aviation Sector
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I recently met Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Chloe Cheung, who reported being followed by men here in London after a large bounty was placed on her head by the Chinese Government. Despite providing copious evidence to the police, she received no follow-up at all. The lawyers of detained activist Jimmy Lai are also being harassed, while the plans for the new Chinese super-embassy, if built, could seriously increase China’s capacity for surveillance, intimidation and transnational repression against Hong Kong activists here in London. Will the Solicitor General please commit to looking into this issue urgently so that we can all have confidence in the UK’s ability to prosecute hostile state actors and protect those who live on UK soil?
Context
Activists, such as Chloe Cheung and Jimmy Lai, have reported being harassed after providing evidence to the police. There are concerns about surveillance capabilities at a new Chinese super-embassy.
The Solicitor General
The hon. Member raises an important issue, and I will make sure that Home Office colleagues have heard the concerns he raises. Ministers have raised concerns of that nature with the authorities, including in Hong Kong and Beijing, and I want to be very clear: we will not tolerate any attempts by foreign Governments to harass or harm their critics on British soil.
Session: Hostile State Activity Prosecution
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What assessment has the Solicitor General made of how regional disparities in legal aid provision, particularly in rural areas such as my constituency of North Cornwall, are driving Crown court backlogs?
Context
The Criminal Bar Association reported a significant increase in cases being adjourned due to lack of available prosecuting or defence barristers. Legal aid providers are fewer in number in rural areas like North Cornwall compared to London.
Lucy Rigby (Solicitor General)
The hon. Member raises an important issue. We have undertaken a comprehensive review of civil legal aid, and we announced a £92 million boost for criminal legal aid solicitors starting this year. Starting this year, we will also be introducing free independent legal advisers for victims of adult rape.
Session: Crown Court Reducing the Backlog
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Cornwall faces a homelessness crisis, with 22,000 families on the housing waiting list. Following a meeting last week with the Minister for Housing and Planning, I propose an Airbnb Bill that will require second home owners formally to seek planning permission for any change of use of their properties. There is an easy loophole that allows property owners to avoid paying council tax altogether by passing off a home as a short-term holiday let. Will the Minister please confirm that she will give this proposal due consideration, and will she visit Cornwall to discuss this further?
Context
The MP met with the Minister for Housing and Planning regarding a proposal to regulate Airbnb properties to ensure they are not used as short-term lettings.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Rushanara Ali)
The hon. Gentleman raises an important point. Our priority is to make sure that we tackle the root causes of the housing shortage and homelessness. That is why we are building 1.5 million homes and investing record amounts in housing and tackling homelessness, including £1 billion for the next year.
Session: Homelessness and Rough Sleeping
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In North Cornwall, house prices far exceed local wages and over 40% of houses are second homes. By 2030, more than 3,000 homes will be built in towns such as Bodmin, but the only GP surgery is running at 150% capacity despite a new building being promised for years. Will the Secretary of State ensure that national planning guidance mandates primary care and education infrastructure before developments start?
Context
In North Cornwall, where house prices exceed local wages and many houses are second homes, more than 3,000 homes will be built by 2030. The GP surgery in the area is currently running at 150% capacity despite a promise of a new building.
Angela Rayner
Again, I sympathise with the hon. Gentleman; our Government are absolutely committed to ensuring that we get that infrastructure through a plan-led system, which includes consulting on future policy changes this spring.
Session: New Housing Access to Health Services
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The tragic hit-and-run case of Ryan Saltern in my rural North Cornwall constituency highlights a concerning problem in our legal system. The driver failed to stop, render aid at the scene, or even call 999, leaving Ryan for dead. The case was heard in a magistrates court where the driver received a four-month suspended sentence. Will the Solicitor General please look into the issue in conjunction with the CPS and the Department for Transport, and meet me to discuss her findings?
Context
The tragic case of Ryan Saltern, where the driver received a four-month suspended sentence for failing to stop and render aid after leaving the victim for dead.
The Solicitor General
This is a profoundly tragic case, and I am grateful to the hon. Member for raising it. My heartfelt condolences go to Ryan’s family. I know that they and others have been campaigning for changes to the law in this area, and supporting families who have been through similarly tragic circumstances. I will discuss the case that the hon. Member raises with my colleagues in the Ministry of Justice and ensure that he receives a full response.
Session: Rural Crime Prosecution Rates
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Does the Secretary of State agree that the best gift he could give my constituents this Christmas would be a total ban on water bill rises until South West Water bosses finally end this scandal?
Context
Santa swims have been cancelled in North Cornwall due to raw sewage dumping. Water companies receive money from bill payers but distribute it to shareholders instead.
Steve Reed
The hon. Gentleman is right to point to the scandalous situation that the previous Government left our waterways in, with record levels of pollution and raw sewage filthying our rivers, lakes and seas. I have appointed Sir Jon Cunliffe to lead a commission to review governance and regulation so that we can stop it ever happening again.
Session: Topical Questions
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I wish you and your team, Mr Speaker, and everyone in the House a very merry Christmas, and I welcome the Solicitor General to her place. However, I am afraid that it will not be a merry Christmas for all my constituents. Rural crime in North Cornwall is on the rise, from rural theft to increased drug trafficking. County lines drug gangs are grooming and recruiting children as young as nine to traffic drugs, while elderly and vulnerable constituents have been cuckooed in their own homes by the gangs. What steps is the Solicitor General taking to work with the police to increase the number of prosecutions of the ringleaders of these ruthless gangs that blight our communities and expose our young people to violence and crime?
Context
The question addresses rising rural crimes including theft, drug trafficking by county lines gangs, and the recruitment of vulnerable children and elderly individuals.
Lucy Rigby
The Crown Prosecution Service supplies early investigative advice to law enforcement agencies to build strong cases and ensure the robust prosecution of those involved in county lines. I am determined that we will continue to do everything we can to prevent young people from being drawn into crime and to stop this exploitation.
Session: Misdemeanours
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I recently visited the excellent Haven SEND unit at Budehaven community school in North Cornwall, and I invite the Minister to visit so that it can be replicated elsewhere. Does she plan to extend the unit's funding beyond February's cliff edge, given that Cornwall council's SEND deficit is currently £12 million and counting?
Context
The Haven SEND unit at Budehaven community school in North Cornwall faces funding uncertainty due to Cornwall council's current SEND deficit.
Catherine McKinnell
Local authorities normally support special units in schools with funding from their high needs budget, but officials would be happy to investigate the funding arrangements for this school. Cornwall county council is being allocated a provisional amount of more than £86.6 million in the 2025-26 financial year through the high needs national funding formula, but we are happy to take away the particular issue that the hon. Gentleman raises.
Session: Topical Questions
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We have just seen the third fatality in six months at the Plusha junction. How many more lives will be lost before her Department, National Highways and Cornwall Council finally plan to implement a flyover at this accident blackspot?
Context
The Plusha junction in North Cornwall has seen three fatalities in six months, making it a dangerous accident blackspot.
Louise Haigh
The hon. Gentleman is right to raise that. We are developing the first road safety strategy in over 10 years, and improvements in infrastructure like that are exactly what will be considered under that plan.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Solicitor General clarify what mechanisms are in place to ensure that the regulator is properly regulated?
Context
The Solicitors Regulation Authority labelled the Legal Services Board's report into Axiom Ince fraud as an opinion.
Sarah Sackman
I welcome the hon. Member to his place. He raises an incredibly important point. This Government in general are committed to raising standards and rebuilding trust in the justice system. That means regulators working effectively with investigators in the public interest. He will know that, in accordance with long-established practice, it would not be proper for me to comment on the specific case that he mentions, but I can assure him that we will be working to ensure that regulators are working effectively with investigators in the public interest.
Session: Serious Fraud Office
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During my SEND summit in Bodmin on Saturday, teachers and parents revealed the shocking extent of our broken special educational needs system. Thousands are struggling to get the support they need. What are Treasury Ministers doing to ensure that local councils and schools are properly resourced to deliver an effective SEND system?
Context
Teachers and parents in North Cornwall revealed the extent of the broken special educational needs system during a SEND summit.
Rachel Reeves
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. This is an issue that resonates right across the House, with so many of us hearing terrible stories at our surgeries about the lack of support for some of the most vulnerable children in society. We will set out more detail on departmental settlements in the Budget tomorrow.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given that the turnout for the Devon and Cornwall police and crime commissioner election in May was just 18%, will the Minister look to scrap that role and instead invest that money in proper community policing in rural constituencies such as mine of North Cornwall?
Context
The turnout for the Devon and Cornwall police and crime commissioner election was just 18%, leading to a call from the MP to scrap this role.
Diana R. Johnson
The Government have no plans to scrap the role of police and crime commissioner. We think it is a valuable role that can enable the missions that this Government have set out to be enacted locally, including the safer streets mission. We need to work with the PCCs to make sure that mission happens in the different force areas around the country. PCCs also have a role to play with their other partners, local authorities and the voluntary sector.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Domestic Abuse Survivors: Government Support
18 March 2026
Responding: Jess Phillips
Main Concerns
['An estimated 2.2 million women and 1.5 million men have experienced domestic abuse in the last year, with one woman killed by an abusive partner or ex-partner every five days on average. The under-reporting of such incidents highlights severe issues. A constituent named Louise was denied legal aid despite being homeless due to failing the means test, highlighting systemic flaws that prevent victims from accessing necessary support and protection.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should reform evidence requirements for economic abuse in favour of more accessible evidential criteria, remove the legal aid means test for all domestic abuse victims and survivors, raise the income threshold annually, disregard inaccessible capital for victims of domestic abuse, and implement delayed legal aid reforms as pushed by the VAWG sector.']
Rural Crime
27 February 2025
Responding: Dame Diana Johnson
Main Concerns
['The total cost of rural crime in 2023 was £52.8 million, an increase of 4.3% from the previous year. Farmers face issues like botched Brexit trade deals and family farm tax changes, exacerbating their struggles with organised criminal activity. Thefts of GPS units surged by 137%, costing £4.2 million, and livestock theft remained at a concerning £2.7 million. Small businesses and tradesmen have also been affected, with only 2% of stolen tools being returned to owners.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should reopen smaller police stations in rural areas to improve reporting and solving of crimes. The Act passed in July 2023 for deterring thefts of farm vehicles should be extended to cover GPS units, power tools, and high-value pieces of equipment, requiring forensic markings and registration databases.']
Bluetongue Virus in Livestock
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
08 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr Carmichael highlighted the concern regarding the management of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, specifically noting proposed changes to payments for coastguard rescue officers that could impact ...
Transport (Scotland) Bill - Schedule 4 - Minor and Consequential amendments
10 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to make minor and consequential changes to the bill, ensuring consistency in the provisions. It includes technical adjustments to align with existing regulations and improve clarit...
Water Companies
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Costs for Motorists
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Processed Russian Oil Products: Sanctions
20 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government and Regeneration Bill - Lords amendments engaging Commons financial privilege and other Lords amendments to be discussed
21 April 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to disagree with Lords amendment 2. Proposes several Government motions to disagree with multiple Lords amendments and offers alternatives in lieu of others.
Criminal Justice Bill - After Clause 14 - Duty to inform victims and families of the unduly lenient sentencing scheme
25 March 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Defending Democracy Taskforce
12 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Established a Speaker’s Conference to examine the security of Members, candidates and elections. The conference published two reports with over 60 recommendations to tackle abuse and intimidation face...
Attendance
59.6%
56 of 94 votes
Aye Votes
44
46.8% of votes
No Votes
12
12.8% of votes
Abstentions
38
40.4% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
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 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
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: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
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
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
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 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
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
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
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: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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 AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
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
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
1
PMQs Asked
34
Ministerial Questions Asked
54
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
94
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
-73% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+154% above average
This MP:
34
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1011% 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 (%)
-13% below average
This MP:
59.6
Average:
68.8
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 Maguire's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.