Bill Esterson
MP for Sefton Central
Lab
6 May 2010 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Let’s talk about fracking. It contaminates the water table, it causes air pollution and the test drilling in Lancashire led to earthquakes. Will the Prime Minister stand up to climate deniers? Will he ban fracking once and for all? Does he agree that those who are backing it are supporting fracking stupid reform?
Context
There are concerns about fracking's impact on water contamination, air pollution, and seismic activities.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
We will ban fracking for good, and let us be absolutely clear that the biggest risk to energy prices is staying hooked on volatile international fossil fuel markets. In stark contrast, Reform is ignoring local communities, putting green jobs and investment at risk and committing to higher bills by warning renewable companies not to invest.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address the specific questions regarding standing up to climate deniers and agreeing with those backing fracking being in support of 'fracking stupid reform'.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I am proud that the Labour Government are banning fire and rehire. I am proud that we are addressing the abusive use of zero-hours contracts and improving protections at work, particularly against unfair dismissal. Reform and its Tory friends voted against Labour’s workplace protections. Does my right hon. and learned Friend agree that it is only this Labour Government who will ensure that people have fairness at work?
Context
The MP references Labour's policies on fire and rehire, zero-hours contracts, and workplace protections. He criticizes the Conservatives for voting against these measures.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I am proud that we will give 15 million workers—half of all workers—stronger rights at work. We are ensuring sick pay for up to 1.3 million of the lowest paid, tackling sexual harassment, and providing bereavement leave for families who experience pregnancy loss before 24 weeks. Compare that to the Leader of the Opposition, who thinks that maternity pay is “excessive”, and the leader of Reform, who wants working people to pay tax so that there can be tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires. Both of them vote against reform and better protection of workers at every turn.
Assessment
The PM did not directly address whether his government's policies are superior but instead criticized the opposition.
Criticizing The Opposition
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Can I encourage my right hon. Friend to resist Opposition voices and support the Mersey tidal project as part of clean energy strategy?
Context
Liverpool city region is a hub for offshore wind, yet some oppose renewable energy projects like the Mersey tidal project.
Keir Starmer
We will boost home-grown renewable energy to create new jobs, ensuring energy independence and lower bills; we will look carefully at projects such as the Mersey tidal project.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Will the Prime Minister confirm whether he has forgotten to register any of his financial interests? Will he publish all details of Catamaran Ventures' investments?
Context
Reports suggest that the Prime Minister's family investment company, Catamaran Ventures, is being wound up.
Rishi Sunak
I take very seriously my responsibilities to register and declare all relevant interests in accordance with the ministerial code. My wife has been an investor in British companies, but that is now something she has ceased to do going forward.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not confirm whether he had forgotten to register any financial interests or publish all details of Catamaran Ventures' investments.
I Take Very Seriously My Responsibilities
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
If the Prime Minister wants to remove the latest suspicion of his conflicts of interest, will he tell his Dubai millionaire friends that if they want contracts to run freeports here, they must reinstate P&O workers and guarantee the jobs of DP World workers too?
Context
The Prime Minister met the chairman of P&O owners DP World to discuss setting up a freeport in London. Last year, the Foreign Secretary also met DP World.
Boris Johnson
I have one overwhelming interest, which is to protect and preserve the jobs and livelihoods of the British people. We will ensure that we continue to attract overseas investment in record ways.
Assessment
Specific ask about reinstating P&O workers was not directly addressed
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Given Alison Powell's case and others like her who have been financially excluded from support, when will you start providing adequate help?
Context
Alison Powell did not qualify for any financial support due to the tax return system, leading to a lack of assistance during the pandemic.
Boris Johnson
Acknowledging the difficulty some face in qualifying for support. £18 billion has been spent on aiding self-employed individuals during the pandemic, with ongoing commitment to further assistance.
Assessment
No new commitments or specific plans were given for Alison Powell's case or similar issues.
£18 Billion Support
Continue Putting Arms Around
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Does the Minister agree that by blocking new nuclear in Scotland—in contrast to what is happening in England and Wales—the Scottish Government are undermining not just the energy transition but alternative jobs for oil and gas workers?
Context
The Minister stated that new nuclear is essential for energy security and alternative jobs for workers in oil and gas. The Scottish Government's opposition to new nuclear is seen as undermining both the energy transition and secure employment opportunities.
Michael Shanks
My hon. Friend is right, over 5,000 Scots currently work in the UK's nuclear industry but not in Scotland due to SNP opposition. There are huge potential benefits for workers to transfer skills from oil and gas into new nuclear power stations, however SNP's ideological approach hinders this progress.
Session: Nuclear Energy Sites Scotland 2026-07-07
View All Questions -->
Hudson primary school does a brilliant job. It is a family hub that specialises in support for children with SEND and autism and has a nursery. The building is 80 years old and suffers from high water table issues leading to damp, mould, and occasional flooding. Will the Minister give Niki Craddock, the headteacher at Hudson primary school, her team and all the children they serve the news that he will look favourably on prioritising this school in the rebuilding programme?
Context
The question arises from the need to prioritise Hudson primary school in Sefton, which faces structural and environmental challenges.
Josh MacAlister
I thank my hon. Friend for his advocacy for Hudson primary school. He has spoken to me before about the excellent performance of the school and its headteacher. We will be selecting the 250 schools for the school rebuilding programme by the end of the year and announce them at the start of next year. It will be based on those schools that have the most acute need in terms of their building state.
Session: School Rebuilding Programme Sefton
View All Questions -->
If she will make it her policy to prioritise Hudson primary school, Sefton, in the school rebuilding programme. The building is 80 years old and suffers from high water table issues leading to damp, mould, and structural problems.
Context
The question arises from the need to prioritise Hudson primary school in Sefton, which faces structural and environmental challenges.
Josh MacAlister
I thank my hon. Friend for his advocacy for Hudson primary school. He has spoken to me before about the excellent performance of the school and its headteacher. We will be selecting the 250 schools for the school rebuilding programme by the end of the year and announce them at the start of next year. It will be based on those schools that have the most acute need in terms of their building state.
Session: School Rebuilding Programme Sefton
View All Questions -->
The fuel duty freeze is welcome but petrol and diesel prices are rising again. Is it time to give more support to those who want to make transition to electric vehicles? Will Government confirm plans for easier home charging and cheaper electricity?
Context
Discussion on the need for greater support in transitioning to electric vehicles due to volatile fuel prices.
Dan Tomlinson
We see continued uptake in electric vehicle purchases; more were bought in March than ever before. We are increasing grants for EVs and making progress with permitted development rights for on-street charging.
Session: Fuel Costs Support for Motorists
View All Questions -->
There are people who are saying that the way to bring down bills is to reach agreement with the oil and gas companies to charge less for gas in the North sea. Is not the problem with that argument that there is absolutely no way that those privately owned companies will agree—or that their shareholders will allow them to agree, to be more accurate—to a lower price than they can get elsewhere in the world?
Context
There are people arguing that agreements with oil and gas companies to charge less for gas in the North sea can bring down bills.
Ed Miliband
My hon. Friend makes the really important, and relatively basic, point that gas is priced and sold on the international market. Whether it comes from the North sea or is imported, it is charged at the same price.
Session: Household Energy Bills
View All Questions -->
Evidence presented to the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee shows that if the war in Europe is expanded, Russian submarines pose a significant threat to oil and gas tankers, pipelines and installations in the North sea. What is the Government's plan to address this significant threat to our oil and gas supplies?
John Healey
I praise my hon. Friend's chairmanship of the Committee. Russia poses an immediate and pressing threat to this country. The UK and allies' navies monitor, shadow and surveil activities of the Russian navy, and we are stepping up our surveillance of any activity close to our oil installations and pipelines.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Foreign Secretary mentioned the importance of Russian oil and gas and the need to disrupt the activities of the shadow fleet. Will she confirm that she is working with allies to ensure that as much as possible is being done to stop people using Russian oil and gas, because of how important it is to reduce the cash flows that are behind Russia's war effort?
Context
The importance of disrupting Russian oil and gas to reduce funds for the war effort.
Yvette Cooper
I confirm that we are doing exactly that. We have raised that in discussions with colleagues and partners right around the world, because we know that Russia has continued to use oil and gas to fuel its war machine. That is also why we are strengthening the operations, sanctions and pressure on the Russian shadow fleet. We will also continue to pursue further action. We would like to see international support for a maritime services ban.
Session: Support for Ukraine
View All Questions -->
The cost of new infrastructure contributes to higher bills. Given today's record amounts in solar power from the auction round 7, what approach will be taken for rolling out and maintaining the necessary grid infrastructure?
Context
There is a need to roll out extra grid infrastructure to support the transition to renewable energy sources, which is crucial following years of underinvestment.
Ed Miliband
My hon. Friend is correct to highlight this morning's auction with record amounts of solar power, which costs less than half new gas. On the point about infrastructure, we inherited a terrible legacy but are now building necessary infrastructure.
Session: Household Energy Bills
View All Questions -->
My hon. Friend the Member for Knowsley (Anneliese Midgley) asked about the two-year parole cycle when she raised the appalling case of James Bulger. James’s dad, Ralph, is now a constituent of mine, which is why I am following up. Will the Secretary of State consider changing the rules around the two-year system, given the family’s re-traumatisation when reliving what happened to James every two years?
Context
In their manifesto at the last election, the Government promised to set up specialist rape courts in every Crown court location. There is a need for these courts to ensure swift justice for victims of rape.
The Minister for Justice (David Lammy)
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising this issue on behalf of Ralph Bulger. I know that he is meeting Baroness Levitt today. I too am happy to meet to discuss these issues in the coming weeks, notwithstanding my important role in this context.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I am grateful to the Minister for her commitment. Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid does a brilliant job advocating for victims of domestic abuse, but it has seen a worrying increase in the level of psychological abuse, alongside historical challenges with violence. Can the Minister confirm that Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid, along with other organisations doing such good work, will get the support that she has just outlined to enable them to look after the victims for whom they advocate so brilliantly?
Context
Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid reports an increase in psychological abuse alongside historical challenges with violence, raising concerns about adequate funding.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones)
I commend my hon. Friend as a fantastic constituency MP and Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid for all the brilliant work it does in supporting victims of abuse and violence. He is right to highlight that victims are now coming forward with much more complex needs—not just physical violence, but coercive and controlling behaviour—and it is right that that is properly treated and recognised. That is why we are ensuring that victims have the right to timely support. That is a key part of the Government’s mission to halve the levels of violence against women and girls. We have committed to ringfencing the funding that the MOJ provides to police and crime commissioners, and we are working with them to ensure that, post their abolition, following their term coming to an end, we can provide certainty to victim support services, so that they know they will be there whenever a victim or survivor needs them.
Session: Victim Support Services Funding
View All Questions -->
Mersey Care NHS foundation trust has plans for a world-leading mental health research and development facility at Maghull health park in my constituency. Will the Minister meet me to discuss how the Treasury might support investing in such an important research and development project, not least as it is fundamental to the Government’s plans for improving healthcare?
Context
The MP mentions a plan for a world-leading mental health research and development facility at Maghull health park in his constituency, which is part of Mersey Care NHS foundation trust.
Lucy Rigby (Economic Secretary to the Treasury)
My hon. Friend raises an important point. This Government are investing an extra £29 billion in our national health service. I would be happy to meet him to discuss it further.
Session: Research and Development Bonds
View All Questions -->
Reducing costs by £40 per megawatt-hour for 7,000 manufacturing businesses is welcome, as is the news in the Budget of changes to the British industry supercharger scheme. However, there are tens—if not hundreds—of thousands of other manufacturing businesses facing some of the highest electricity prices in Europe, which has been the case for many years. What is the plan to help the businesses facing very high bills right now while we wait for lower electricity bills in the longer term through Government plans for clean power?
Context
The MP is concerned about the high electricity prices faced by UK manufacturing businesses compared to their European counterparts.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Chris McDonald)
Alongside the British industrial competitiveness scheme, we have also committed to increasing network charges compensation from 60% to 90% under the network charging compensation scheme. We are reviewing our energy intensive industries compensation scheme. The lack of competitiveness on energy prices between the UK and the rest of Europe is a situation that was bequeathed to us by the previous Conservative Government and their ideological adherence to relying on foreign dictators such as Putin for Britain’s energy needs. We are investing in our future energy needs to ensure they are clean, cheap and secure.
Session: Energy Costs
View All Questions -->
Lord Stern reminded us just today that ‘Investment in climate action is the…growth story of the 21st century’, while expecting growth from fossil fuels is ‘futile because the damage it causes ends in self-destruction’. The Office for Budget Responsibility confirmed the same thing in the summer, referring to the huge cost of not taking climate action. Is it not the truth that the energy transition is essential, not only to address climate action, but to exactly how we deliver economic success?
Context
Concerns about the economic growth potential of net zero policies and the costs associated with not taking climate action.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
The Chair of the Select Committee speaks very wisely on this matter. The net zero economy grew three times faster than the economy as a whole last year. This is the growth opportunity of the 21st century. Now, we could let China or India take that opportunity, but I say that we need that opportunity for Britain.
Session: Net Zero Evidence-based Policy
View All Questions -->
The challenges of increasing electricity grid capacity include getting planning consent and grid connections. The Select Committee's recent report pointed out inconsistencies between grid connection requirements and planning consents, leading to delays. Will the Minister address this inconsistency?
Context
Select Committee report highlighted inconsistency in guidance and energy plans over which comes first—the grid connection or the planning consent. This inconsistency hinders increasing electricity generation and grid capacity.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Michael Shanks)
We need to look at aligning processes where they are not coherent. We also aim to bring together strategic spatial energy plans, holistic network design, and land use frameworks to ensure coherent planning across the country.
Session: Electricity Grid Capacity
View All Questions -->
Moving from gas to electricity in home heating is an important part of reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. Yet at the Select Committee hearing last week, we heard real concerns that people in energy debt are unable to disconnect from gas and are therefore still stuck paying standing charges. Will the Minister say what the Government’s plans are to remove that problem and ensure that more people can take up the opportunities presented by electrifying home heat?
Context
Referring to concerns heard at a Select Committee hearing about people in energy debt being unable to disconnect from gas.
Michael Shanks
My hon. Friend makes two important points. First, on the importance of decarbonising heating across the country, the electrification of home heat will be an important way of delivering cheaper bills for people and reaching our decarbonisation targets. Secondly, on the important matter of debt, I know the Minister for Energy Consumers has been doing work with Ofgem, and we have been looking at a debt relief scheme for exactly those sorts of questions. Clearly, we want to support as many households as possible to move on to cheaper heating in the long term. We will continue to push forward that work.
Session: Fossil Fuels
View All Questions -->
The overwhelming majority of those at the international energy summit last week said that the transition to low-carbon energy is crucial to energy security. Does my hon. Friend agree that those in this Chamber and beyond who do not support the transition to low-carbon energy are playing fast and loose with this country’s energy security?
Context
Recent international energy summit discussing the importance of transition to low-carbon energy for securing the country's future.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Kerry McCarthy)
That is absolutely the case. It was heartening to see so many countries and so many representatives from business come together at the conference last week. We are showing global leadership on this issue. We know it is the way forward in terms of our energy security, and not putting us at the mercy of dictators and petrostates. I thank my hon. Friend for his support.
Session: UN Climate Change Conference 2025
View All Questions -->
Farmers and growers in my constituency want to sell to hospitals and schools, but over the past few years they have found that increasingly difficult, not least because of the procurement chapters in the trade agreements that were concluded by the Conservative Government. Will my hon. Friend confirm that, under this Government, growers and farmers will be able to sell to public bodies and play their part in keeping Britain fed?
Context
Farmers and growers in constituencies face difficulties selling to hospitals and schools, partly due to procurement chapters in trade agreements concluded by the previous government. This affects their ability to supply public sector needs.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right; there is a real opportunity here, with £5 billion of purchasing power in the public sector, so we are looking at ways of ensuring that happens. It was a real surprise for us to find that the previous Government had not even measured the amount that was being bought—that is the starting point. We will start to make that happen, and we will get that huge opportunity for British farmers.
Session: Public Procurement British Produce
View All Questions -->
The hon. Friend notes that last year, the UK imported 43% of its energy. He asks if the Secretary of State agrees on the potential for energy independence, reduced vulnerability to volatile international markets, and export opportunities from clean power initiatives.
Context
Last year, the UK imported 43% of its energy. The question addresses benefits of reducing this reliance for bill payer protection and economic growth through exporting electricity and hydrogen.
Ed Miliband
The hon. Friend is right about this. It's about energy independence for Britain and becoming a clean energy superpower to export electricity and hydrogen, benefiting economically from such initiatives.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister confirm that this Government will use public spending to contract directly with local companies and economies across the country in contrast to past Conservative party actions?
Context
The MP questioned the previous Government's procurement practices, particularly during the pandemic.
Georgia Gould
We are taking action now through new procurement policies. The Chancellor announced a new covid corruption commissioner to recover public money.
Session: Public Procurement Reform
View All Questions -->
Will my hon. Friend confirm that the reason for the changes to national insurance is precisely to plug the £22 billion gap caused by the Conservatives?
Context
The shadow Chancellor toured TV studios stating the Conservative party did nothing wrong in government.
James Murray
The problem with Conservative Members is that they are happy to say they want more funding for the NHS but not prepared to pay for it. We have taken tough decisions to ensure public services and fix finances.
Session: National Insurance Contributions
View All Questions -->
Some farmers benefited from international trade agreements under the previous Government. Unfortunately, it was mostly Australian and New Zealand farmers, not British farmers, who benefited. Will my hon. Friend confirm that this Government will prioritise British farmers who want to export, not least those who want to export to the European Union, through a veterinary agreement with the EU?
Context
The MP is questioning the fairness of past international trade agreements that benefited foreign farmers over British ones, seeking confirmation that current policies will change this.
Daniel Zeichner
My hon. Friend is absolutely right that what happened to the British farming industry was one of the great betrayals of the previous Government. Those trade deals did no credit to our country, but we will take a different approach and develop a much more constructive relationship with our near neighbours. Therefore, the answer to my hon. Friend's question is yes.
Session: International Trade Agreements
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to ensure that future international trade agreements support the farming sector. Some farmers benefited from international trade agreements under the previous Government. Unfortunately, it was mostly Australian and New Zealand farmers, not British farmers, who benefited. Will my hon. Friend confirm that this Government will prioritise British farmers who want to export, not least those who want to export to the European Union, through a veterinary agreement with the EU?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of future international trade agreements on British farmers, questioning if they will be prioritised over foreign competitors.
Daniel Zeichner
Supporting farmers is a priority of this Government. We have been clear that we will protect farmers from being undercut by low welfare and low standards in trade deals. We are also working to reset our relationship with our European friends to strengthen ties and tackle barriers, and helping boost trade to the EU through a UK-EU sanitary and phytosanitary veterinary agreement. My hon. Friend is absolutely right that what happened to the British farming industry was one of the great betrayals of the previous Government. Those trade deals did no credit to our country, but we will take a different approach and develop a much more constructive relationship with our near neighbours. Therefore, the answer to my hon. Friend's question is yes.
Session: International Trade Agreements
View All Questions -->
Does my hon. Friend agree that electricity market reform is crucial to achieving 2030 clean energy targets and reducing bills? Will this Government publish the results of the last Government's consultation, and if so, when?
Context
The previous Government's consultation on electricity market arrangements is mentioned as a crucial element to achieving clean energy targets. The question asks about the timing for publishing these results.
Michael Shanks
I congratulate my hon. Friend again on his appointment as Chair of the Select Committee—he brings a huge amount of knowledge and experience to the role—and I agree with him about the importance of reviewing electricity market arrangements. We are building on the last Government's consultation, and we will have more to say in the months ahead.
Session: Clean Energy by 2030
View All Questions -->
Everyone knows that a knowledge-rich curriculum is the reason why the English education system improved dramatically under the last Government. The embedding of academic rigour produced phenomenal results in PISA —the programme for international student assessment. With that in mind, will the Minister confirm that she has no intention of diluting the curriculum or any focus on academic rigour?
Context
The MP highlighted the improvement of the English education system under the previous government, evidenced by PISA results showing significant academic gains.
Catherine McKinnell
The hon. Gentleman ignores the many challenges that young people face in our school system. We are looking for evolution, not revolution, of our curriculum and will consider areas to focus on based on evidence from stakeholders including employers.
Session: School Curriculum Workplace Skills
View All Questions -->
There is a shortage of technical skilled workers across our economy. It is a chronic problem, not least in sectors such as clean energy. For example, there are only 3,000 registered heat pump installers, but to deliver the last Government's target of 600,000 installations a year we would need 27,000 of them. That is repeated across the economy. Does my hon. Friend agree that schools have a hugely important role in encouraging young people into technical roles? What are the Government doing to support young people into technical, skilled jobs?
Context
The MP noted the current shortage of technical skilled workers in various sectors, particularly clean energy. There are only 3,000 registered heat pump installers needed to meet a target of 600,000 installations annually requiring 27,000 installers.
Catherine McKinnell
Our curriculum review will include speaking to employers as part of the consultation about the essential knowledge and skills that will support and enable students to adapt and thrive in the world and workplace of the future, including ensuring we have specialist knowledge in schools to support young people into technical roles.
Session: School Curriculum Workplace Skills
View All Questions -->
Does she agree that the measures committed to in yesterday's Budget on clean energy, carbon capture and storage and hydrogen—which were backed up by a commitment from a Canadian investor of another £1.8 billion in offshore wind—show how much this Government are in tune with the business community?
Context
The Labour party is highlighting the Government's recent commitments in the Budget regarding clean energy, carbon capture, and hydrogen investment.
Sarah Jones
I agree wholeheartedly with my hon. Friend, but I also quote Kwasi Kwarteng in his article: “Conservatives should be honest” and “Reeves is cleaning up our mess”.
Session: International Investment Summit
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the potential implications for his Department's policies of the outcomes of the international investment summit?
Context
The Labour party is questioning the potential impacts of an international investment summit held recently by the government.
Sarah Jones
We held an international investment summit on 14 October, securing £63 billion in investment, which is twice that of the previous Government's summit. The investment will create high-quality jobs across the country and represents a vote of confidence in this new government.
Session: International Investment Summit
View All Questions -->
The creation of the national wealth fund, and the record success of the £63 billion of investment announced at the investment summit, comes on top of investments that Ministers have just announced in carbon capture in the north-west. Those are examples of the success—
Context
The question discusses the creation of a national wealth fund and recent investments in carbon capture projects. The aim is to highlight the government's successes and commitment to further investment.
Darren Jones
My hon. Friend rightly points out that this country faces a choice: investment or decline. As we saw at the general election, it chose investment, and that is what the Government will deliver.
Session: Northern Powerhouse
View All Questions -->
Does she agree that those convicted and imprisoned as a result of the riots, and those imprisoned for inciting the riots, should not benefit from the early release scheme?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of early release on those convicted and imprisoned as a result of summer riots.
Sarah Sackman
On the early release scheme, my hon. Friend will have heard the Lord Chancellor set out very clearly this week the importance of taking action on the mess on prison places that this Government inherited. Without the action we have taken, courts would have been unable to hold trials, the police would have been unable to make arrests and there would have been a total breakdown of law and order.
Session: Rioters Prosecutions
View All Questions -->
Can she tell the House about discussions that she and her Cabinet colleagues have had with the Crown Estate about maximising benefits from opportunities in offshore wind?
Context
The Crown Estate has published plans to bring an additional 20 GW to 30 GW of offshore wind to market by 2030.
Jo Stevens
We believe that the partnership between Great British Energy and the Crown Estate will leverage up to £60 billion of private investment into the UK's drive for energy independence. The Crown Estate has published plans to bring an additional 20 GW to 30 GW of offshore wind to market by 2030.
Session: Clean Energy Projects
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State tell us how her plans will ensure that more young people seize opportunities in clean energy, and how our education system will deliver necessary qualifications? I know how passionate my hon. Friend is about ensuring young people across Sefton are able to seize future opportunities. How do plans address this?
Context
The MP highlights the shortage of intermediate and advanced-level skilled workers.
Bridget Phillipson
We are determined to drive forward as a clean energy superpower, with reforms like the growth and skills levy for businesses flexibility and Skills England for identifying skills gaps. Our plans aim to unlock opportunity and harness talent.
Session: Level 3 Vocational Pathways
View All Questions -->
How does her figure of a £22 billion black hole align with the estimated costs of the COVID-19 pandemic?
Context
The House of Commons Library estimates the cost of the COVID-19 disaster is between £315 billion and £415 billion.
Tulip Siddiq
Gently points out that had our economy grown at OECD average rates, it would have been £140 billion larger. Under Conservatives, tax burden rose to its highest level for 70 years and there was a significant drop in household real disposable incomes.
Session: Economic Stability
View All Questions -->
My hon Friend is first out of the blocks on this issue and has shown his commitment to improving primary care for his constituents. The existing primary care estate is under pressure due to capital allocation focusing on acute hospitals. Will my hon Friend meet me to discuss investment in health centres such as the one in Maghull, which make a difference to reducing waiting times and improving patient outcomes?
Context
The question builds on previous discussions about capital funding for a new health centre in Sefton Central. Previous Health Secretaries acknowledged this priority, but allocations by integrated care boards have focused on acute hospitals.
Karin Smyth
The local ICB has listened carefully to concerns about the primary care estate under pressure, and building a neighbourhood health service remains at the forefront of our mission. The hon Friend is committed to improving primary care for constituents, and the answerer would be pleased to meet him to discuss investment in health centres.
Session: New Health Centre Maghull
View All Questions -->
Whether his Department plans to provide capital funding for a new health centre at Maghull in Sefton Central constituency. The predecessors of the current Health Secretary agreed that a health centre in Maghull is a priority, but due to the allocation of capital by integrated care boards focusing on acute hospitals, the community facilities have been neglected.
Context
The constituency of Sefton Central is seeking capital funding for a new health centre in Maghull. Previous Health Secretaries have recognised this as a priority.
Karin Smyth
The local ICB has listened carefully to concerns about the primary care estate under pressure, and building a neighbourhood health service remains at the forefront of our mission. The hon Friend is committed to improving primary care for constituents, and the answerer would be pleased to meet him to discuss investment in health centres.
Session: New Health Centre Maghull
View All Questions -->
Is it clear that a Labour Government will fix Britain's roads better than the current Conservative one?
Context
RAC patrols attended more breakdowns related to poor road maintenance; road repairs backlog at £16.3 billion.
Mark Harper
The government has committed £8.3 billion to improving local roads; the Labour party has not backed this plan and committed no money to local roads.
Session: Road Resurfacing
View All Questions -->
Car makers warned what would happen before the Government delayed the end date for the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. Sales of new electric cars are down by 19% in the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Why did the Government not listen to the warnings from business? Do they not want people to benefit from cheaper travel?
Context
The question addresses a warning from the automotive industry about the impact of delayed end dates for petrol and diesel car sales on electric vehicle adoption.
Justin Tomlinson
I proudly drive an electric vehicle myself, and I celebrated the fact that 48,388 electric vehicles were registered in March 2024 alone.
Session: Net Zero Targets Business and Investors
View All Questions -->
Direct connections between cities are vital. Does the Secretary agree that removing buffers at Ormskirk preventing direct trains is a good idea? Such services would be enhanced by battery technology.
Context
The need for direct connections between cities such as Liverpool and Preston is highlighted, questioning the removal of administrative barriers to direct train services like buffers at Ormskirk.
Mark Harper
Local authorities are best placed; £2.5 billion from local transport fund will be available for them; encourages work with stakeholders such as Lancashire County Council.
Session: Transport Connectivity North of England Cities
View All Questions -->
The Secretary of State seems to have forgotten the extensive cuts to the road repair budget that his Government have presided over. Let us consider the example of Northamptonshire, where the Government have cut £16 million from highways maintenance since 2020 alone. That is leaving 330,000 potholes unfilled. He knows that the Network North announcement will give Northamptonshire back only £2.5 million of that £16 million over the next two years. As for Wellingborough, the last time Peter Bone mentioned road repairs was in 2015. After 14 years of neglect by the Conservative Government and their former Conservative MP, is not the best advice for people in Wellingborough who want action on potholes to vote for Labour's Gen Kitchen next Thursday?
Context
The MP highlights the extensive cuts to the road repair budget in Northamptonshire, leaving many potholes unfilled. He points out that the Network North announcement will only partially cover these losses.
Mark Harper
It will not surprise the hon. Gentleman to hear that I do not agree with him at all. Before the Network North announcement, the Government were already investing over £5.5 billion of capital funding in highways maintenance between 2021 and 2024-25, and in the Budget last year, the Chancellor found an extra £200 million for eligible highways authorities.
Session: Road Resurfacing
View All Questions -->
The Government's voter ID requirements, allowing travel cards for seniors but excluding similar IDs for younger citizens, are unfair. Analysis by the Electoral Commission found 14,000 voters were unable to vote due to ID rules in local elections. Concerns exist about a potential impact on general election turnout.
Context
The MP highlighted that travel cards for older people are accepted as ID but not the equivalent for young people, suggesting discrimination and political motives.
Simon Hoare
I disagree with Mr Rees-Mogg and will not take political opportunism lessons from the SNP. The identification must have a hologram for validity.
Session: Voter ID Election Turnout
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has been made of the impact of voter identification requirements on election turnout? Fourteen thousand voters were unable to vote due to lack of photo ID at the May 2023 local elections. Local councils are understaffed and underfunded, unable to ensure everyone has proper identification.
Context
The MP noted that the May 2023 local elections saw significant numbers of voters turned away for lacking photo ID, raising concerns about disenfranchisement.
Simon Hoare
In May 2023 elections, 99.75% of voters successfully cast their vote. France, Germany, Austria and Canada also have voter ID requirements. A full list of accepted IDs is provided by councils. Free voter certificates are available for those without the necessary ID.
Session: Voter ID Election Turnout
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
ADHD Diagnosis
20 January 2026
Responding: Dr Zubir Ahmed
Main Concerns
["A 19-year-old constituent of Bill Esterson's, Matty Lock, took his own life in September 2023. Matty was diagnosed with autism at age 14 but not ADHD until later. The Matthew Lock ADHD Charity highlights the link between suicide and ADHD. About 700,000 people are waiting for a diagnosis, with nearly two-thirds having waited more than a year."]
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the government to improve local NHS provision of ADHD assessments and ensure that children and adults get timely diagnosis and support.']
Jackdaw and Rosebank Oil and Gas Fields
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
National Energy System Operator: Blackout Risk
15 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Civil Service Pensions
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Energy Security
19 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Criticises the Government's energy policy, particularly the ban on new oil and gas licences. Emphasises the negative impact of these policies on Aberdeen, the North East of Scotland, and UK economic s...
Middle East: Economic Update
21 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
19 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate highlights the inextricable link between climate change action and public priorities such as living standards, economic growth, and public services. The speaker emphasises that the UK is fa...
UK Steel Strategy
19 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government’s steel strategy aims to reverse decades of decline in the British steel sector by committing £2.5 billion of investment and introducing a new trade measure to reduce imported steel quo...
Heating Oil Support
16 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Royal Mail: Universal Service Obligation
11 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
82.7%
81 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
28
28.6% of votes
No Votes
53
54.1% of votes
Abstentions
17
17.3% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
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
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
6
PMQs Asked
142
Ministerial Questions Asked
163
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+959% above average
This MP:
142
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3254% above average
This MP:
163
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 (%)
+19% above average
This MP:
82.7
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 Bill Esterson's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.