Blake Stephenson
MP for Mid Bedfordshire
Con
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Government plans for English devolution and NHS reform suggest that integrated care boards should align with new strategic authorities. The Government’s plan for Bedfordshire will not currently achieve that, so what assurances can the Prime Minister provide that local NHS reorganisation will be good value for money, improve local accountability and deliver the healthcare services that are needed to serve my constituents in rural Mid Bedfordshire, including the much-needed GP surgery in Wixams?
Context
There are concerns about the alignment of integrated care boards with new strategic authorities, particularly in Bedfordshire.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
The hon. Gentleman’s points about good value for money and accountability are really important. They are embedded in the work we are doing with the NHS at the moment, which is improving on our watch—not only the waiting lists, but in other respects. The 10-year plan for the NHS, which is intended to ensure that the NHS is fit for the future, has a number of principles, including the principle of local accountability.
Assessment
Did not provide specific assurances about value for money and accountability
Session: PMQs
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These poor performance statistics follow government decisions to pay off union backers without conditions. Is this just coincidence?
Context
Since the summer, commuters using Harlington and Flitwick stations have faced nearly 8% train cancellations in evening peak times, with almost a third of trains more than five minutes late.
Keir Starmer
The previous Government left trains in a poor state; now we are fixing it.
Session: PMQs
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Communities across the country, including in Bedfordshire, recently experienced widespread flooding. The village of Maulden in my constituency has experienced an increase in flooding following cumulative housing development. As the Deputy Prime Minister requires communities across the country to build more homes, will she also ensure that those new developments do not increase the flooding risk?
Context
Communities in Bedfordshire, including Maulden, have experienced an increase in flooding due to recent housing developments.
Angela Rayner
I welcome the hon. Member to his place. We recognise the devastating impact that flooding can have. I know that the flooding Minister visited Bedfordshire in September to meet volunteers and residents. We inherited flood defences in disrepair and behind schedule. We have launched the floods resilience taskforce, and when it comes to the planning reforms needed to deliver the 1.5 million homes this country needs, we will ensure that the right infrastructure is in place and that communities are resilient.
Assessment
Did not confirm measures to prevent new developments increasing flood risks
Session: PMQs
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If the Prime Minister were a pensioner earning £11,350 this year and receiving no winter fuel payment, what would he prioritise this Christmas—heating or eating?
Context
The Prime Minister made a decision regarding the winter fuel payment for pensioners earning £11,350 this year.
Keir Starmer
We have to be clear about why this decision is being made: there is a £22 billion black hole. The last Government would walk past these tough decisions and pretend they were not there—they would kick them into the long grass—but we are not prepared to do that. Because we are taking tough decisions, we can commit ourselves to the triple lock, and that means that the state pension will increase by more than any loss of the winter fuel payment.
Assessment
Did not directly address the question about prioritising heating or eating.
Session: PMQs
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When can we expect the joint Anglo-Dutch amphibious ships to be operational, considering HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark are out of service?
Context
Co-operation between UK and Netherlands on a new amphibious fleet was announced in the defence investment plan.
Luke Pollard
This Labour Government is bringing back amphibious ships. We are working with the Netherlands to develop a joint capability, and our ambition is clear.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-06
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Wixams retirement village in Mid Bedfordshire is a wonderful, integrated retirement community, but I understand from the sector and the industry that that business model is under threat from the Government’s leasehold reforms. Given the important role that these communities can play in reducing social care costs for our local authorities, and the fantastic option they represent for older constituents, will the Minister commit to look again at the specific impacts of leasehold reform on the integrated retirement sector, particularly to give stability and predictability to investors so that they can invest in future schemes?
Matthew Pennycook
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his well-judged question. Let me reassure him that the Government understand the distinct operational and financial models that underpin specialist retirement housing, and that we recognise the important role that integrated retirement community operators play in providing high-quality housing for older people. As he is hopefully aware, the way in which the retirement housing sector functions in a world in which commonhold is the default tenure, and whether some kind of exemption is required, are among the many questions we are seeking feedback on in our consultation on moving to commonhold and banning leasehold for new flats. I encourage him and any operators in his constituency to engage with that consultation.
Session: Leasehold Reform Integrated Retirement Communities
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What assessment he has made of the potential impact of planned reforms to leasehold on integrated retirement communities.
Matthew Pennycook
On 19 March, we published a full impact assessment for the draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill. The hon. Gentleman will be aware that we are also consulting on precisely how to introduce a ban on the use of leasehold for new flats, including in respect of issues such as scope, transitional arrangements and exemptions.
Session: Leasehold Reform Integrated Retirement Communities
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First, I thank Ministers for inviting me to a meeting yesterday on unduly lenient sentences. My constituent, Tracey Hanson, and other campaigners like her continue to raise powerful points on the need for victims to have parity with offenders on rights and support. Will the Minister assure the House that the Government intend to achieve that parity during this Parliament?
Context
Tracey Hanson, a constituent of the questioner, has raised concerns about parity between victim and offender rights and support. Campaigners are advocating for this issue.
Jake Richards
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question and for his attendance at yesterday's meeting. The testimonies given by his constituent, Tracey, and other victims there were truly powerful. I said this at the meeting in private and I am happy to say it again at the Dispatch Box: we are working at pace to look at all the solutions. We will contact his constituent, and indeed him, as and when we have our position.
Session: Topical Questions
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Hundreds of public sector bodies, including a number of Departments and arm's length bodies, are registered to sponsored visas, as the Minister will know. Does she agree that the public sector should lead from the front and sponsor visas by exception only in the cases of hiring truly world-class talent? Can she confirm whether all Departments and arm's length bodies are complying with the guidance issued by the Cabinet Office?
Context
The question stems from concerns about public sector bodies registered for sponsored visas and their adherence to guidance from the Cabinet Office.
Satvir Kaur
We want to champion world-class talent, and we want to have and retain the best talent. That is why we have announced the national school of government to ensure that we can do that. I politely remind the hon. Member that numbers actually increased after the points-based system was introduced. That is what made the biggest difference.
Session: Civil Service Visa Sponsorship
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Given that the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran without British involvement, and that this Government seem increasingly at odds with the US in relation to Diego Garcia, can the Minister assure me that the Government's actions are not damaging the special relationship and increasing the likelihood that further tariffs will be imposed on the UK, driving up costs for the Great British public?
Context
The US and Israel launched strikes on Iran without British involvement, and there are concerns about the relationship with the US regarding Diego Garcia. The question seeks assurance that these actions are not damaging the special relationship and increasing the likelihood of tariffs.
Stephen Doughty
I do not accept what the hon. Gentleman says. Our relationship with the United States is strong; it has endured, continues to endure, and will endure into the future on the economic and security fronts. We were the first to strike a deal with the US Administration, which removed tariffs on UK aerospace exports and secured reduced tariffs for cars. That saved manufacturers hundreds of millions and protected jobs across this country.
Session: US Tariffs
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While welcoming the increase in the agricultural property relief threshold, does the Minister recognise broader economic concerns that inflation and rising asset values could pull more family farms into inheritance tax liability?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the rise in the agricultural property relief threshold affecting family farms due to inflation and rising asset values.
Hilary Benn
As the hon. Member will be aware, the Government announced that the allowance for 100% rate relief will be increased from £1 million to £2.5 million. That means that a couple will now be able to pass on up to £5 million tax-free between them, on top of the existing allowances such as the nil-rate band. The president of the Ulster Farmers Union, William Irwin, welcomed the changes.
Session: Economic Impact of Government Policies
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of Government policies on the economy in Northern Ireland?
Context
The MP asked about the potential economic impacts of government policies.
Hilary Benn
The Government are supporting Northern Ireland through the four city deals, the local innovation partnerships fund, an enhanced investment zone and greater economic stability. Economic activity in Northern Ireland increased by 2.9% over the year to quarter 3, and it has the lowest unemployment in the UK.
Session: Economic Impact of Government Policies
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I thank the Minister for his response. A recent Yale University report ranked Mauritius last out of 131 states for stringency in relation to its marine protected areas, and a woeful 173th out of 180 for the protection of biodiversity. Mauritius has even admitted that it does not have the capacity to patrol the area, and that it is open to commercial fishing. I recognise the response that the Minister gave, but Britain has kept the Chagos marine environment pristine for 50 years. Why do the Government not want to secure that legacy in law?
Context
A Yale University report ranked Mauritius last out of 131 states for stringency in relation to its marine protected areas and 173th out of 180 for the protection of biodiversity. Mauritius has admitted it does not have the capacity to patrol the area, and commercial fishing is open.
Stephen Doughty (Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
With the greatest of respect, because I know that the hon. Gentleman raises the issue with sincerity, I was just very clear. It was on 3 November that Mauritius announced the creation of the Chagos archipelago marine protected area, and it has confirmed that no commercial fishing will be allowed in any part of the MPA. We are working very closely with Mauritius on patrolling and protecting the environment. These are important issues, and I assure him that we are absolutely seized of them.
Session: Chagos Islands Marine Protection
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Will the Secretary of State outline how he will ensure that blood tests are done in a community setting, which surely must be much better value for the taxpayer and much more convenient for patients?
Context
The MP's constituents are being directed to hospital for regular blood tests, instead of having them performed at their GP surgery.
Wes Streeting
The hon. Member is absolutely right, and that is why a big part of our modernisation approach is to shift care out of hospital and into the community, making greater use of community diagnostic centres, community pharmacies and GPs. As his question shows, 18 months in, lots done, but a lot more still to do.
Session: Topical Questions
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Nearly 17,000 companies licensed to sponsor worker visas have five or fewer employees. How sure is the Home Secretary that these are not bogus companies offering a back door to Britain?
Context
Concerns raised about the number of small companies licensed to sponsor worker visas and lack of inspections.
Mike Tapp
Any UK business can apply for a sponsor licence, provided that it complies with the relevant requirements. I will take that point away, look at it and come back to the hon. Member with more detail.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps is his Department taking to reduce the number of young people not in education, employment or training? With two job-destroying Budgets and the Employment Rights Bill on the horizon, does the Minister really understand the concerns of my constituents who feel that this Government are making it harder for young people to find work and get on the career ladder?
Context
The question arises from the concern over the number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET), which has risen significantly under previous government.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Pat McFadden)
When this Government came to power, we inherited a situation in which almost 1 million young people were not in education, employment or training. As we have said, the number rose by 50% in the last few years of the Conservatives’ time in government, and they did nothing about it. That is why we are acting. In the Budget we announced a youth guarantee, with £820 million of investment, to offer hope where previously there was only Tory neglect.
Session: NEET Young People
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The Government want to improve standards in public life. At a recent council meeting, the leader of Milton Keynes council swore and was abusive following a 16-year-old resident's speech. Does the Secretary of State agree that this behavior is unacceptable?
Alison McGovern
We recently put forward our response on improving standards. We are looking for an opportunity to take that forward, for the reasons the hon. Gentleman mentions.
Session: Topical Questions
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What representations have you made to the Chancellor for Scottish farmers? If we do not have farmers, there is no food. Will the Minister listen to the voices of rural Scots and ask the Chancellor to rethink this ruinous inheritance tax reform?
Context
Continuation of debate about impact of changes to inheritance tax relief, with focus on whether Government understands rural community concerns.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
We are regularly engaging with rural constituents and farming stakeholders. We understand pressures they face, but we maintain that our reforms balance fixing public finances with supporting small family farms by only affecting the richest estates.
Session: Inheritance Tax Relief Agriculture Sector
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I am concerned about the latest central estimate from the Office for Budget Responsibility that puts the cost of achieving net zero by 2050 at £803 billion, with half of this cost attributed to lost fuel duties. Does the Secretary of State accept that the Government will need to increase duties elsewhere, including on renewables, which could push bills up further?
Context
The OBR report indicates an £803 billion cost for achieving net zero, with half attributed to lost fuel duties.
Ed Miliband
The most significant thing about the OBR report is that it says there is an 8% threat to our GDP by 2070 in a 3°C world, and a 56% rise in the debt to GDP ratio if we do not act on climate change. That is the most important thing from that report, which I recommend all hon. Members read over the summer.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Home Secretary agree with Labour police and crime commissioners that the money allocated by the Chancellor at the spending review is insufficient to deliver the Government’s policing priorities?
Context
Labour police and crime commissioners argue that the money allocated by the Chancellor at the spending review is insufficient to deliver the Government’s policing priorities.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Yvette Cooper)
We have provided an additional £200 million for neighbourhood policing as part of more than £1 billion of additional funding for police forces across the country. That is how we are putting an additional 3,000 neighbourhood police officers and police community support officers on our streets this year, after the decimation of neighbourhood policing under the Conservatives.
Session: Topical Questions
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From responses to my written parliamentary questions, we know that the median earner can expect to pay £273 more in tax this year under Labour. When the Chancellor sat on the Opposition Benches, she described freezing tax thresholds as “picking the pockets” of working people. Does the Chancellor accept that she is now the one picking the pockets of working people?
Context
MP cited responses to parliamentary questions indicating higher tax payments for median earners. He referenced the Chancellor's previous criticism of tax threshold freezes.
Rachel Reeves
In the Budget last year, we increased taxes by £40 billion, but without affecting the pay packets of ordinary working people. We did not increase their national insurance, their income tax or their VAT, and we did not go ahead with the wrong-headed increase in fuel duty that was put in place by the Conservative party. We are protecting working people; the Conservative party picked their pockets time and again.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why has the Attorney General been forced to apologise for his comments about those who believe the European convention on human rights is impeding efforts to tackle illegal migration? Does that not call into question the credibility of any advice given by the Attorney General and whether we can take the Government’s plans to stop the boats seriously?
Context
The Attorney General recently apologised for comments about the European Convention on Human Rights impeding efforts to tackle illegal migration.
The Solicitor General
As I said, the Law Officers’ convention prevents me from disclosing whether Lord Hermer advised on this issue or indeed any other. It does not, however, prevent me from saying that I am surprised that the hon. Gentleman wants to talk about illegal migration, given the abject mess the Conservatives left the country in.
Session: Immigration Government Legal Advice
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How will merging the local ICB help rural mid-Beds get the healthcare it needs?
Context
The MP highlighted the merger of ICBs in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes with Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, covering 3 million people. He noted difficulties securing a GP surgery in Wixams.
Wes Streeting
The government is taking a different approach, slashing bureaucracy and reinvesting in front-line services. We are not centralising but decentralising, and cutting waiting lists—a record that the Conservative party cannot match.
Session: Topical Questions
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I declare an interest: I am a Central Bedfordshire councillor. It is important that the boundary commission delivers electoral arrangements that provide strong local representation throughout English devolution. Will the hon. Member assure the House that resources available to the commission with be sufficient to ensure that representation is not sacrificed on the basis of arbitrary timelines for devolution?
Context
The Local Government Boundary Commission is managing its work programme in response to the 'English Devolution' White Paper and conducting periodic electoral reviews. Blake Stephenson, a Central Bedfordshire councillor, raises concerns about resources.
Stephen Gethins (Arbroath and Broughty Ferry) (SNP)
The hon. Member raises a good point and has some good inside information. Some £500,000 has been allocated, but the committee will keep that under periodic review in co-operation with the commission.
Session: Local Government Boundary Commission for England
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Thanks to the introduction of auto-enrolment, millions of young people are now saving for their retirement, but I have heard worrying reports in Mid Bedfordshire that increases in employers’ national insurance, which have resulted in pay freezes, are now causing people to decide to opt out of pension savings. Does the Minister recognise that risk to pensions adequacy? If so, what is he doing to address it?
Context
Cross-party efforts over the past 15 years have seen improvements in automatic enrolment rates, particularly among younger individuals. However, concerns are rising about increased employer national insurance costs leading to pay freezes and potentially higher opt-out rates from pension savings.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Torsten Bell)
Less than 1% of savers actively opt out of saving each month, but the hon. Gentleman is completely right to say that we need to remain vigilant and ensure that opt-out rates do not rise in the years ahead. There was some more volatility in opt-out rates during the pandemic, for reasons that I am sure he will understand, but, as I say, we have been seeing those come down recently. I am happy to keep talking to him about that in the years ahead.
Session: Private Pension Pots Young People
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Residents in Mid Bedfordshire are concerned about the standards of maintenance at our two local hospitals. What action are the Government taking to support our hospitals in Luton and Bedford to catch up on maintenance backlogs?
Context
Residents are concerned about the standards of maintenance at local hospitals, specifically in Luton and Bedford.
Wes Streeting
Thanks to the investment that the Chancellor committed to, we are investing in the NHS estate which is in a sorry state. I am afraid that that is an investment that the hon. Gentleman did not vote for and his constituents will be fuming when they find out who was responsible.
Session: Topical Questions
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Funding and delivery of a GP surgery for Wixams in my constituency continues to fall between the cracks of developers, local councils and the local ICB. Does the Minister agree that to break those deadlocks and build the infrastructure that our communities require, new mayors should have the power to direct ICBs, making locally elected politicians responsible rather than unelected quangos?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the lack of cooperation between developers, local councils, and ICBs regarding GP surgery funding in Wixams.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
The hon. Member tempts me slightly on local accountability, on which he has been a strong campaigner. As he knows from meeting me, I agree that it is important that such local bodies respond properly so that where there are expansions of housing, which we want to see, they are supported by local infrastructure. I am happy to come back to him with any further detail.
Session: English Devolution Integrated Care Boards
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As the UK's top export country, the US is a vital partner to many UK businesses, but with Trump now reported to have made the UK a second-order priority to Asia and with the UK possibly on the verge of giving up its Brexit freedoms in favour of EU alignment, how confident is the Secretary of State of achieving a comprehensive free trade deal with the US, in both goods and services?
Context
The US is the UK’s top export country and a vital partner for many UK businesses. There are concerns about the US prioritizing Asia over the UK, and potential alignment with EU trade policies.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Jonathan Reynolds)
First, let me assuage the hon. Gentleman’s concerns: that is a misreading of how the US is approaching these negotiations. The US has perhaps more complex issues with some countries that will take more bandwidth on its side. As I have always said, the existing relationship between the UK and the US is incredibly strong, reciprocal and mutually beneficial. I see far fewer issues to negotiate to get to that outcome.
Session: Trade US Tariffs
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Level 7 apprenticeships play a vital role throughout our economy, including in the construction industry, and support social mobility. I recently met young, hard-working apprentices in Mid Bedfordshire who would not be able to achieve their ambitions without level 7, but there are concerns about the future of those apprenticeships. Will the Minister take this opportunity to reassure employers and apprentices that she understands the value of level 7 apprenticeships?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the future of level 7 apprenticeships, which play a vital role in supporting social mobility and the construction industry.
Janet Daby
This Government have an extremely challenging fiscal inheritance. There are tough choices to take on how funding should be prioritised to generate opportunities for young people to start fulfilling careers. Learners who have started will be funded to completion and we expect to make a final decision on effective apprenticeships shortly. We are committed to level 7 apprenticeships and to people continuing their education to a good standard.
Session: Construction Apprenticeships
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Whether the number of houses recommended by the new towns taskforce will be in addition to the housing targets set in the national policy planning framework. Communities in Mid Bedfordshire have always done their bit to take new housing, but continued pressure to build is chipping away at our beautiful countryside and the historical character of our towns and villages. Will the Minister assure communities such as mine that the new towns taskforce cannot hit us with a double whammy of house building?
Context
Communities in Mid Bedfordshire have faced continuous pressure to build new houses, impacting the countryside and historical character of towns and villages. The local area has always contributed to taking on new housing.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
Not least because we will only begin construction of the next generation of new towns towards the end of this Parliament, the Government have been clear that they will deliver over and above the targets produced by the standard method. We will keep under review how the taskforce’s forthcoming recommendations on new towns interact with housing targets across England. The independent expert taskforce chaired by Sir Michael Lyons will submit its final report in the summer, and we do not yet know which locations it will recommend for Ministers' decision. Our ambition is that new towns will contribute over and above the standard method targets, but we want to ensure that incentives are in place to support proactive local authorities like his.
Session: Housing Targets New Towns Taskforce
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The extension of the scheme will be welcome news to those involved with churches such as St Botolph’s in Aspley Guise in Mid Bedfordshire. People there have told me of their concern about the lack of certainty for longer-term projects that may need support beyond 12 months. Will the Church Commissioner join me and other colleagues in pressing the Chancellor to provide longer-term funding certainty?
Context
Local concern about uncertainty for longer-term projects requiring support beyond 12 months. Example project: St Botolph’s in Aspley Guise.
Marsha De Cordova
The hon. Member has raised this issue at Church Commissioner questions previously, and he is right to continue to do so. Although the scheme is being extended until March 2026, we do not have a long-term plan or solution. It is only right that the Government should set out their plans.
Session: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme
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If he will give an assurance that the proposed changes to the application of inheritance tax to certain armed forces death-in-service payments are compatible with the commitment in the armed forces covenant to ensuring that our brave and loyal armed forces personnel face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services.
Context
Concerns are raised about the compatibility of proposed changes to inheritance tax with the commitment in the armed forces covenant.
The Minister for Veterans and People (Al Carns)
The covenant will come into law in the next two years or so, on the back of the armed forces Bill. That will result in a great expansion, with all Government Departments falling in line with the covenant, so that no individual who has served is disadvantaged because of that service.
Session: Armed Forces Death-in-service Payments
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I welcome the Government’s ambition to welcome 50 million visitors per year to the UK by 2030, but does the Secretary of State share my concern that a visitor levy, combined with ever more expensive electronic travel authorisations, will make it much more expensive for people to visit Wales, and indeed my constituency of Mid Bedfordshire, starving hard-working people of income at a time when they have to pay Labour’s jobs tax?
Context
The questioner is concerned that a visitor levy combined with electronic travel authorisations will make it more expensive for people to visit Wales, affecting local income.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
As far as I am aware, Mid Bedfordshire is not in Wales. The hon. Member raises objections to the Welsh Government’s policy, but he should perhaps check his own ranks first, because Conservative-run Great Yarmouth borough council has supported a form of tourist levy for years.
Session: Visitor Levy
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T4. Plans for a Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire are a huge opportunity to drive economic growth and private sector investment. What progress is being made, and when do the Government expect discussions with Universal Studios to conclude?
Context
Plans for a Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire are seen as a huge opportunity to drive economic growth and attract private sector investment.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism (Chris Bryant)
The hon. Gentleman knows, because we have had several discussions about it, that I cannot enter into the precise details of the negotiations, but they are going well, and I am hopeful that this will be absolutely transformational for the British tourism industry if we manage to pull it off. I am sure that he will urge everybody to co-operate with the Government in that process.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps is the Government taking to support pioneering British companies, such as Cranfield Aerospace Solutions in Mid Bedfordshire, in their pursuit of hydrogen-powered flight? How will the industrial strategy ensure that the UK remains a global leader in sustainable aviation technology?
Context
Pioneering British companies like Cranfield Aerospace Solutions in Mid Bedfordshire are exploring hydrogen-powered flight.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)
We have increased R&D spending to the highest level in this country. This will directly impact issues such as hydrogen-powered flight and support British companies like Cranfield Aerospace Solutions.
Session: Topical Questions
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High-grade agricultural land in Mid Bedfordshire has been farmed for generations, and it is critical for our food security and our freedom, but it is under extreme pressure. We have talked this morning about climate change and flooding, and also about the Government's family farm tax. What has not been mentioned so much is urban sprawl, which is a major threat to high-grade agricultural land. We live in an uncertain world and we need our country to feed itself. Considering the threat, will the Minister guarantee that high-grade agricultural land will be protected by this Government?
Context
Climate change, nature loss, and urban sprawl pose significant risks to high-grade agricultural land in Mid Bedfordshire. The area has been farmed for generations.
Daniel Zeichner
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his points and refer him to my earlier comments: we see more and more pressure, and there are so many things we need to do on our land to house and feed people, so it is important that we have a proper structure in place. It is widely acknowledged that the current planning system does not necessarily do that. The previous Government promised a land use framework; we will actually deliver it.
Session: High-grade Agricultural Land
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What assessment has the government made with Cabinet colleagues regarding the potential merits of safeguarding high-grade agricultural land? Climate change and flooding are pressing issues, as is the Government's family farm tax. Urban sprawl is a major threat to this critical land essential for food security and national freedom. Considering these threats, will the Minister guarantee protection of high-grade agricultural land?
Context
Climate change, nature loss, and urban sprawl pose significant risks to high-grade agricultural land in Mid Bedfordshire. The area has been farmed for generations.
Daniel Zeichner
The hon. Gentleman's points are acknowledged, and I refer to earlier comments that pressure on land is increasing. A proper structure is needed for housing and feeding people, yet the current planning system falls short. The previous Government promised a land use framework which we will deliver.
Session: High-grade Agricultural Land
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On Bedfordshire Day, I want to put on record my appreciation for everyone who works so hard in our county. That includes constituents passionate about preserving St Botolph's church in Aspley Guise. They are working hard to raise tens of thousands of pounds for their tower restoration project and expect work to start early next year. However, they are concerned that without the listed places of worship grant scheme, works will become much more expensive and may not be able to proceed. Will the Church Commissioner meet me to discuss how we can continue to support historic churches such as St Botolph's?
Context
Constituents are working hard to raise funds for St Botolph's church in Aspley Guise, with concerns about the cost and feasibility of repair works without the listed places of worship grant scheme.
Marsha de Cordova
I join the Hon Gentleman in congratulating those who work hard in communities and churches. I will be delighted to meet him to see what assistance can be provided for the parish, including the £175,000 target for extensive repairs at St Botolph's.
Session: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme
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What recent discussions has the Church had with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on whether the listed places of worship grant scheme will continue after March 2025?
Context
The Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme is set to end in March 2025, raising concerns about the ability of parishes to fund essential repairs. Bishop of Bristol and National Churches Trust have written to Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport seeking a meeting.
Marsha de Cordova
The listed places of worship grant scheme enables VAT to be refunded for repairs to churches and religious buildings. Without it, parishes will struggle with essential repairs and fundraising efforts. The Bishop of Bristol and National Churches Trust have written to the Secretary of State requesting a meeting on this issue.
Session: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme
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People deserve certainty. In Mid Bedfordshire, we are proud of the hard work of the owners of nearly 5,000 small businesses. They are working people creating jobs and growing our economy, and all while providing for their families. They are lying awake at night worrying about yet higher taxes. Will the Chancellor give them a peaceful night's sleep ahead of tomorrow's Budget and confirm that she will honour her manifesto commitment not to raise taxes on them?
Context
The MP references the concerns of small business owners in his constituency regarding potential tax increases.
James Murray
I do not think I am pre-empting anything tomorrow by confirming that the Chancellor will absolutely stick to our commitment not to raise taxes on working people through national insurance, the basic, higher or additional rates of income tax, or VAT. And I might add that what people and businesses in the hon. Gentleman's constituency might want is stability in the economy, a Government who support investment in the economy, and a Government who will get the economy growing and make people across Britain better off.
Session: Taxes on Working People
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What assessment has the Secretary of State made of the merits of reforming the planning system to introduce new measures to help reduce flood risk?
Context
The question arises from a need to assess whether the current planning system adequately addresses flood risk management and if reforms could improve this.
Matthew Pennycook
The national planning policy framework clearly states that inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding should be avoided by directing development away from areas at highest risk, including flood plains. We consulted on the national planning policy framework and sought views on how the planning system can more effectively manage flood risk. My Department is analysing responses, with a view to publishing a Government response before the end of the year.
Session: Topical Questions
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In Rural Crime Action Week, does the Secretary of State agree that in Bedfordshire, where we have major urban areas such as Bedford and Luton bordered by rural communities, it is important that the funding formula be reviewed so that equal attention can be paid to tackling crime in our rural villages and towns?
Context
The MP highlighted the importance of reviewing the police funding formula to ensure equal attention is given to rural and urban areas.
Yvette Cooper
I gently remind the hon. Member that his party's Government failed to review the funding formula for very many years. However, he is right that the issues of rural and urban areas are immensely important, which is why we have committed to a rural crime action plan.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Development should be about building places and communities where people can live fulfilling lives, not just building houses, and places of worship play an important role in that. Will the hon. Member work with Ministers to ensure that the Government's new towns commission incorporates the creation of places of worship in new towns?
Context
The question builds on the initial query, emphasizing that community development should include places of worship to support residents' spiritual needs and enhance overall quality of life.
Marsha de Cordova
The Church Commissioners are involved in place-making and have sought a meeting with the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to discuss strategic land for up to 70,000 new homes. The diocese of St Albans provides examples of community-building through religious facilities.
Session: Access to Places of Worship
View All Questions -->
What steps is the Church taking with developers and local authorities to ensure that residents in new towns and villages have access to places of worship?
Context
Residents in new towns and villages should have access to religious facilities as part of community development. The question addresses the lack of a legal requirement for local authorities to consider building new places of worship.
Marsha de Cordova
Local authorities are not currently required to consider building new places of worship, but under national planning policy they can include these as community buildings in development projects. The Church Commissioners seek to promote such facilities when local authorities include them.
Session: Access to Places of Worship
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Transport: Marston Vale
17 June 2026
Responding: Lilian Greenwood
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about disjointed transport planning and modelling that fails to account for cumulative impacts of multiple development projects. He mentions specific issues such as East West Rail's plans to close level crossings, inadequate road infrastructure to handle increased traffic volumes, the lack of a contingency plan for potential disruptions on major roads like the A421, and the need for more detail on funding and infrastructure commitments from government."]
Specific Asks
['The MP requests that the Minister works with East West Rail to reconsider its proposals regarding level crossings in the Marston Vale, commits to developing a master plan for transport in the area, and provides further details on what specific infrastructure investments will be made to facilitate Universal UK.']
Improving the UK Visa System — [Graham Stuart in the Chair]
03 June 2026
Responding: Mike Tapp
Main Concerns
['Blake Stephenson is concerned about the high volume of immigration and its impact on public services, competition for jobs, and pressure in the housing market. He highlights that over 1.3 million people have arrived in the UK in under two years, more than the population of Birmingham. The visa system is described as too generous and vulnerable to exploitation, with examples such as fake job offers in vape shops and convenience stores. Stephenson also criticises the lack of regular inspections on companies eligible for work visas, pointing out that even defunct organisations are still listed as sponsors.']
Specific Asks
['Stephenson calls for stricter rules regarding the size of organizations allowed to sponsor visas, limits on the proportion of staff who can be on work visas, and tougher penalties for non-compliance. He requests the Home Office to publish relevant data and ensure regular transparent inspections. Additionally, he demands that the Government reassess remote English language testing due to security concerns.']
Healthcare in Rural Areas
04 March 2026
Responding: Stephen Kinnock
Main Concerns
["Rural communities face significant challenges in accessing healthcare due to their larger geographical spread and fewer people per area. There are nine GP surgeries in Mid Bedfordshire compared to 20 in Ilford North. The proposed neighbourhood health service, with a geography of 50,000 people, will not benefit rural areas like Mid Bedfordshire, where people will have to travel to major towns for services. The recent centralisation of Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) covering larger areas has made it difficult for rural communities to get the attention they need. In Wixams, a new town in the constituency, the long-promised GP surgery has not materialised despite promises since 2007, and residents find it hard to get action from the ICB. The Government's plans for mayoral areas and integrated care boards are also problematic, diluting the political pressure rural communities can bring. In the decade since 2016, the number of patients per fully qualified GP in Bedfordshire has increased by 18%, and rural communities have seen significant development without corresponding healthcare infrastructure."]
Specific Asks
["The Minister is asked to consider amending the Government's plans for neighbourhoods to serve rural communities better, with neighbourhoods of around 10,000 people rather than 50,000. There is a request for assurances that additional funding will be provided for GP surgeries in new towns, and not at the expense of existing rural communities. The lead MP also suggests allowing councils and ICBs to benefit from developer contributions from the day planning permission is granted to ensure infrastructure is in place before new developments."]
Planning and Development: Bedfordshire
23 April 2025
Responding: Matthew Pennycook
Main Concerns
['Mid Bedfordshire has a history of industrial development but now faces challenges with bad housing estates, soulless developments that worsen quality of life, and lack of proper infrastructure. Residents are frustrated by the impact on flood risk, local amenities, and community services.']
Specific Asks
['Calls for better planning to deliver good-quality homes in the right places, protect historic character, countryside, and public amenities, ensuring developers meet promises on green spaces, flood protections, and local facilities.']
Tourism Industry
20 March 2025
Responding: Chris Bryant
Main Concerns
['Tourism in Mid Bedfordshire is underrepresented and has a domestic tourism economy of just £250 million, with an international tourism economy of only £100 million despite having attractions such as Wrest Park, Whipsnade Zoo, Woburn Safari Park, Center Parcs Woburn Forest, Wyboston Lakes Resort, Luton Hoo and the potential for a Universal Studios theme park.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should provide funding to ensure that tourism is considered in English devolution initiatives and resist local tourism taxes as they would make the UK less competitive, introducing additional costs and confusion for holidaymakers.']
Thameslink Train Services
25 February 2025
Responding: Simon Lightwood
Main Concerns
['About 1.5 million passengers use Harlington and Flitwick stations in Mid Bedfordshire each year to meet friends, go shopping and take advantage of everything London has to offer. However, the service is unreliable with overcrowded carriages, cancellations, and delays; 80% of respondents had been impacted by a cancellation in the past month, and 88% had experienced a delay of more than 10 minutes.']
Specific Asks
['Blake Stephenson calls for sufficient drivers to ensure services run as advertised, better emergency routes home via taxis and buses, especially in rural communities, and improved step-free access at Harlington and Flitwick stations.']
Support for Pensioners
12 February 2025
Responding: Torsten Bell
Main Concerns
['Pensioners represent over 10 million people and the cuts to support, such as winter fuel payments, have left many struggling. An estimated 9.2 million pensioners lost their winter fuel payment this winter, leading to difficulties in choosing between heating and eating.']
Specific Asks
['The Government needs to ensure that pensioners receive the support they need, including restoring the cuts to winter fuel payments and maintaining the triple lock for pensions.']
Tourism: Bedfordshire
19 November 2024
Responding: Chris Bryant
Main Concerns
["Bedfordshire's tourism economy is worth only £100 million for international visitors and £250 million for domestic tourists, despite the county's easy access from London and its many attractions. The MP highlighted the need to promote local historic sites, natural landscapes, and entertainment options like golf courses, theme parks, and national nature reserves. He also mentioned the importance of protecting small businesses and maintaining the character of villages while supporting sustainable development."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asked the Government to support projects such as the Bedford to Milton Keynes waterway park and the Universal UK theme park project at Stewartby in his constituency, which could bring significant economic benefits. He also requested that the Minister work with him on securing funding for a new 3G pitch for Barton Rovers football club.']
Ukraine and Russia
10 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
CHURCH COMMISSIONERS
03 September 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asked about the steps the Church of England is taking to work with other faith groups to promote community cohesion.
Opposition Day
07 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Civil Service Pensions
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
East Midland Railway Collision
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson: Government Response to Humble Address
19 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Fuel Duty
18 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The House believes it is wrong to increase the main fuel duty rates on specific dates in 2026 and 2027, as global oil prices are rising. These increases will affect drivers, farmers, businesses, and o...
Consular Assistance
05 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Finance
11 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to approve the Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27, laying before the House on 9 February.
Finance (No. 2) Bill (Fourth sitting) 2026-01-29
29 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Amendment 42 proposes to exempt journeys by taxi and private hire vehicle in rural areas from the provisions of subsection (3A) of section 79. The clause changes VAT application for taxis and private ...
Attendance
84.5%
82 of 97 votes
Aye Votes
46
47.4% of votes
No Votes
36
37.1% of votes
Abstentions
15
15.5% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 NO
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
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
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 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
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: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
4
PMQs Asked
45
Ministerial Questions Asked
53
House of Commons Debates Involved
8
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
97
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
+9% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+236% above average
This MP:
45
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+218% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+991% above average
This MP:
53
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 (%)
+22% above average
This MP:
84.5
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 Blake Stephenson's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.