Bob Blackman
MP for Harrow East
Con
6 May 2010 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I welcome the Prime Minister's commitment to combat antisemitism but want real action: expel students from overseas who commit antisemitic acts; proscribe the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps; close down Iran-sponsored charities spreading antisemitism; teach children about Holocaust and Israel's founding. Will he take these actions?
Context
Regular hate marches on streets have led to attacks and arson against Jewish businesses, synagogues, individuals, and homes. There is a call for action against overseas students committing antisemitic acts.
Keir Starmer
We are investing in security for Jewish communities, tackling antisemitism within universities with £7 million funding, and bringing in powers to clamp down on malign state activity. Further steps will be outlined.
Assessment
No specific commitment on proscribing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or closing down Iran-sponsored charities was provided
Session: PMQs
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I thank the Prime Minister for raising the stabbing at Kingsbury high school yesterday. It is absolutely right that we allow the police to get on with their job of investigating this terrible atrocity; indeed, the police are out there now, providing reassurance to parents and people in the community. I am sure I speak for the whole House when I say that our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and those who witnessed the atrocity. Will the Prime Minister now look at what needs to be done to combat knife crime across the country? It is absolutely wrong that people are carrying knives in the first place—they do not need to—and that they are drawn into such terrible atrocities. We owe it to the victims to ensure that that happens.
Context
Concern over a stabbing incident at Kingsbury high school and its impact on local communities. The question emphasizes the need for action against knife crime.
Keir Starmer
I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising this case: it is one of the most powerful and important things that we do as MPs in this place, particularly when there are such awful cases. He is absolutely right; we must everything that we can to reduce knife crime. There are initiatives and steps that we have taken to remove the accessibility of knives, in relation to where they can be bought. We need to do much more work with our schools and young people to ensure that people do not carry knives, and we need to work with the police and law enforcement to make sure that these incidents are investigated as quickly and effectively as possible.
Assessment
Specific actions or commitments to reduce knife crime were not provided
We Must Everything
Session: PMQs
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Will the Deputy Prime Minister take concrete steps to ensure that antisemitism is driven out of our country?
Context
Weekly antisemitic protests have been occurring in towns and cities since October 2023, targeting Jewish businesses and restaurants. The chants are described as being antisemitic.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr David Lammy)
I am very grateful to the hon. Gentleman. He and I have worked cross-party on these issues over many years, particularly as I represent Stamford Hill, one of the historic homes of the Jewish community. The rising antisemitism we see and the nature of some forms of protest is intolerable and unacceptable. That is why the Home Secretary has set out her plans. I will continue to work with her closely to drive antisemitism out of this country.
Session: PMQs
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In 2016, the current Mayor of London promised zero strikes on the London underground. Today is the 135th day of strikes since then. Will my right hon. Friend join me in condemning those strikes, which have brought misery to the travelling public in London, and condemn the Mayor of London for his failure to address this issue?
Context
There have been 135 days of strikes on the London Underground since a promise was made for zero strikes in 2016.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is absolutely right about the misery being inflicted on Londoners by the incompetent running of TfL. It is worth bearing in mind that not only does the Labour party vote against our minimum service levels, which will provide respite for the hard-working British public, but since the pandemic the Mayor of London has received £6 billion of additional funding for transport services—so for us to be in the situation that we find ourselves in today is simply unacceptable.
Session: PMQs
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As we approach Holocaust Memorial Day, colleagues can sign the early-day motion and the book of commitment, and they can attend the various commemorative services. I have to report some very sad news to the House. The well-known holocaust survivor Zigi Shipper died at the age of 93 in the early hours of this morning. [Interruption.] He was a survivor of Auschwitz-Birkenau and Stutthof concentration camps. He spent his life in this country spreading his message of hope to young people. Will my right hon. Friend join me in thanking Zigi for his life and for his message? It is vitally important as we sit here today: do not hate.
Context
Zigi Shipper, a holocaust survivor and advocate for hope, has passed away.
Rishi Sunak
I am very sorry to learn that Zigi has passed away, and my thoughts are of course with his family. I know he was a man with wonderful energy and humanity. I pay tribute to him for his work, and indeed to all holocaust survivors who have so bravely shared their testimonies. We must never forget the holocaust. As my hon. Friend rightly said, I know the whole House will join us in echoing Zigi's poignant and accurate message: do not hate.
Session: PMQs
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On this day commemorating Kristallnacht, will my right hon. Friend condemn antisemitism in all its forms? He also congratulates the Holocaust Educational Trust on their work to ensure we never forget what happened during the Holocaust.
Context
Today is the 84th anniversary of Kristallnacht, an event marked by destruction of synagogues and Jewish businesses, and murder of Jews.
Rishi Sunak
Antisemitism has no place in our society. The Government adopted the IHRA definition of antisemitism, and survivors' testimonies are valued by the House.
Session: PMQs
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I support the Government's aim for England to be smoke-free by 2030, but we're on track to miss it. It is important to discourage young people from starting and help those who already smoke quit. Therefore, I propose raising the legal age of tobacco sales to 21 and imposing a levy on big tobacco companies' profits to fund £700 million in smoking cessation services.
Context
The Government aims to make England smoke-free by 2030, but current trends suggest this may not be achieved. Encouraging young people from smoking and supporting smokers in quitting are crucial.
Boris Johnson
The PM thanked Bob Blackman for his support on smoking reduction. He noted Javed Khan OBE is reviewing smoking in England, suggesting this review might consider proposed measures.
Assessment
No commitment was given to the specific proposals of raising the age limit or levying tobacco companies' profits
Deferred Answer
Session: PMQs
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As a Queen's scout, I am always keen to encourage young people to get into the most successful youth organisation in the world, so last week I was delighted that the Scout Association announced the first new age range in scouting for 35 years—namely, the Squirrels—which allows young people of four and five years old to become part of the scout movement. Does my right hon. Friend agree that we should congratulate the Scout Association, thank the volunteers who give up their time to enable young people to take part, and encourage young people to get involved in a safe environment for adventure and new challenges?
Context
The Scout Association has recently launched the Squirrels program, which allows children aged four and five to join scouting. This initiative aims at areas of deprivation and disadvantaged children.
Boris Johnson
Yes; I had no idea that the Scout Association was doing that, but I think it is fantastic. Uniformed youth services make a huge difference to outcomes for young people.
Session: PMQs
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Three and a half years since the Grenfell fire, 3.6 million leaseholders still live in potentially dangerous properties. The £1 billion set aside for remediation expires on 31 December this year but will be insufficient to cover costs. Will my right hon. Friend set out what plan there is for next year? Will he guarantee that leaseholders will not have to pay a penny towards the cost of replacing unsafe cladding?
Context
The question concerns the remediation of unsafe cladding after the Grenfell fire tragedy.
Boris Johnson
We are looking urgently at what can be done to support leaseholders before the expiry of current arrangements, to ensure they do not have to pay for cladding remediation.
Assessment
Did not provide specific plan or guarantee.
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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Thank you, ground control. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister will be well aware of the negotiations going on between the Department for Transport and the current Mayor of London on a further bail-out for Transport for London. The current Mayor is demanding an eye-watering £5.65 billion to keep TfL running for the next 18 months, yet he refuses to accept any economies because that would offend his union paymasters. Will my right hon. Friend confirm that the Government have not required the current Mayor of London to expand the congestion charge to the north and south circular roads?
Context
The current Mayor of London is demanding £5.65 billion to keep TfL running for the next 18 months but refuses to accept any economies, citing union paymasters.
Boris Johnson
What I can certainly confirm, as I said in my answer to the first question, is that the black hole in TfL's finances of TfL, the bankruptcy of TfL, which, by the way, was left in robust financial health by the previous Mayor—it certainly was—is entirely the fault of the current Labour Mayor of London, with his grossly irresponsible demagogic fare policies, which, I may say, were never pursued by the previous Mayor of London, and the fault lies entirely with him.
Assessment
Did not address whether the Government required expansion of congestion charge
Blame Shifting
Session: PMQs
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Clearly, the free flow of shipping through the strait of Hormuz is vital to western economies, but the threat is that Iran will seek to take complete control over shipping through the strait. What sanctions do the Government propose to take to prevent Iran from succeeding?
Context
The MP is concerned about the threat of Iran taking control over shipping through the strait of Hormuz and the need for sanctions.
Stephen Doughty
The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right that we need to see the strait reopened. We need to have an agreement between Iran and Oman, and we need to ensure that there is a free flow of trade, with no tolling, and that the attacks on shipping and on partners in the region cease immediately. We have already imposed 240 sanctions on Iran, and we will continue to work with international partners to apply economic pressure, but a diplomatic settlement is the right way to restore the right of passage in the strait of Hormuz.
Session: Strait of Hormuz 2026-09-01
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I have long championed rolling out small modular nuclear reactors. Despite being a welcome decision, Wylfa could be more extensive with both full-scale and SMR stations. Will the Secretary of State announce sites for further roll-out so that it is settled in the community and we can get that nuclear power on to the grid?
Context
Rolling out small modular reactors has been championed in the House.
Ed Miliband
I think the hon. Member is talking not just about what will happen at Wylfa, but all the other routes to market that are happening, including advanced modular reactors and other technology. We have massive enthusiasm from private sector companies, and we are driving it forward.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-07
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More young people are carrying knives to protect themselves, resulting in incidents such as stabbings in schools. Given this situation, should those caught with knives face custodial sentences?
Context
There is an increase in young people carrying knives to defend themselves, leading to stabbings in schools. This raises concerns about the need for deterrent measures.
Jake Richards
Deterrence is important but so are education and early intervention. We need tailored approaches for children who carry knives out of fear.
Session: Knife Crime Custodial Sentences 2026-06-30
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I am concerned that more young people carry knives to defend themselves, resulting in serious incidents like stabbings in schools, particularly in my constituency. Given this trend, should those caught carrying knives face custodial sentences to deter such behaviour?
Context
More young people are carrying knives, supposedly to defend themselves, leading to stabbings in schools and increased knife crime. The question addresses the need for deterrent measures.
Jake Richards
Deterrence is important, but early intervention and education are crucial. Custodial sentences play a part, but we need to be careful with interventions for young people who carry knives due to fear of personal safety.
Session: Knife Crime Custodial Sentences 2026-06-30
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My hon. Friend highlights the severe issue of antisemitism on campuses. Yet, against this backdrop, is it not perplexing that the Government denies students access to the Office for Students' free speech complaint scheme while making it available to everyone else? The Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education, where students are directed instead, offers no real recourse for those facing discrimination due to their beliefs. What message does this send to Jewish students enduring intimidation and harassment? Will meaningful sanctions, including funding consequences, be introduced for universities failing repeatedly in protection?
Context
The Government's decision to deny students access to the Office for Students free speech complaint scheme while extending it to others raises concerns about equitable treatment of Jewish students facing discrimination.
Bridget Phillipson
I recognise the serious issue my hon. Friend identifies, with a House-wide commitment to addressing antisemitism. However, there is a misunderstanding: students have clear redress mechanisms when things go wrong. Vice-chancellors and others are unequivocally told that antisemitic hate speech has no place on campuses.
Session: Antisemitism on University Campuses
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I am concerned that antisemitism and anti-Jewish hatred are widespread on university campuses. The Secretary of State rightly points out that it is up to vice-chancellors to ensure Jewish students feel safe, but a recent survey indicates that just 3% of Jewish students believe they can safely report antisemitism. Will the Secretary of State take urgent action to enforce that those committing such acts are expelled from universities and, if applicable, deported?
Context
Antisemitism is a significant issue affecting Jewish students on university campuses, with only 3% feeling safe to report incidents.
Bridget Phillipson
The hon. Gentleman is correct in his concerns about antisemitism; I acknowledge the commitment of my colleague to addressing this issue. At a recent event, I emphasized the necessity for universities to address antisemitic behavior firmly. Jewish students frequently face harassment and intimidation, which must not be tolerated.
Session: Antisemitism on University Campuses
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In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Pakistani security forces have fired on peaceful demonstrators who were standing for human rights, and the right to food and proper security in their area. More than 30 people were killed, and more than 200 injured, including British nationals. What action has the Secretary of State taken to call in the Pakistani high commissioner and say not only that that is unacceptable, but ask what action is being taken to protect innocent bystanders?
Context
Pakistani security forces have fired on peaceful demonstrators, resulting in over 30 deaths and more than 200 injuries, including British nationals. The situation is drawing international attention.
Seema Malhotra
We are concerned about developments in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including the loss of life of security personnel and civilians. We recognise that it is an internal matter for the authorities, but we changed our travel advice on 6 June to advise against all but essential travel to the Azad Jammu and Kashmir region due to the ongoing situation. We continue closely to monitor the situation, including the impact on British nationals, engaging with the Government of Pakistan as appropriate.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will he ensure that they [the documents] are provided before Parliament is prorogued at the end of the Session?
Context
The question is prompted by the need to ensure that all relevant documents are released before Parliament's prorogation at the end of the Session.
Darren Jones
A number of documents are still being worked through by the Intelligence and Security Committee. In line with the process that I have set out, we want that to conclude before the documents are published to the House.
Session: Lord Mandelson Response to Humble Address
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What recent progress has been made on implementing the Humble Address agreed on 4 February 2026?
Context
The question is prompted by the need for transparency and accountability regarding Peter Mandelson's appointment and dismissal as ambassador to the United States.
Darren Jones
On 11 March, the Government responded to the Humble Address by releasing a first tranche of documents in respect of Peter Mandelson's appointment and subsequent dismissal as ambassador to the United States. We are proceeding at pace to publish a second tranche of documents to comply with the Humble Address.
Session: Lord Mandelson Response to Humble Address
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Ministers will be aware that Ashab al-Yamin has claimed responsibility for the terrorist attacks across north-west London on Jewish synagogues, places of worship, businesses and homes. That is a group that takes its orders directly from Iran and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. What action have Ministers taken to call in the diplomats from Iran and expel them, because they are instructing terrorist attacks on our citizens?
Context
A group linked to Iran has claimed responsibility for recent terrorist attacks in north-west London, affecting Jewish synagogues, places of worship, businesses, and homes.
Hamish Falconer
As the hon. Member may know, I have repeatedly summoned the Iranian ambassador on concerns about what goes on in the UK. Some elements of the alleged attacks in the UK are still sub judice, but I want to leave him in no doubt about how forcefully we have raised these points with the Iranian ambassador, and indeed with the Iranian regime.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is welcome news that NHS England has reduced the faecal immunochemical test threshold from 120 micrograms to 80 micrograms, bringing England into line with Scotland and Wales. We now need investment in endoscopy and other related treatments to ensure that people suffering from bowel cancer are spotted early and given the ultimate chance of survival. Could Ministers look at further investment here to increase survival rates?
Context
NHS England has reduced the faecal immunochemical test threshold. The questioner asks for further investment in endoscopy and related treatments to increase survival rates.
Wes Streeting
Yes; as part of our national cancer plan, we absolutely want to see survival rates improve in the way the hon. Gentleman describes. I welcome the new Minister working on this—the Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, my hon. Friend the Member for Washington and Gateshead South (Mrs Hodgson)—to her place, and thank my hon. Friend the Member for West Lancashire (Ashley Dalton) for all her leadership in this area, too.
Session: Topical Questions
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Yesterday came the welcome news that Queensbury station, in my constituency, is one of five new stations that will be considered for step-free access. That makes almost the entire Jubilee line step-free, except for Stanmore station, which Transport for London classifies as step-free, even though my residents face 49 steps on the main staircase, 10 at the side and access via a very steep ramp from the car park, which even a Paralympian cannot manage.
Context
The MP highlights issues with step-free access at Stanmore station.
Heidi Alexander
I have visited Stanmore station, and I understand the difficulties that are presented to the hon. Gentleman's constituents. We are investing in the Access for All scheme nationally and, as he has indicated, Transport for London is investing in his constituency too.
Session: Topical Questions
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What urgent action is being taken to provide more power to the grid for west London, ensuring that projects are not frozen into the 2030s?
Context
The West London Alliance faces significant delays in new home developments and business opportunities due to lack of grid capacity.
Michael Shanks
We have cleared out connections queue so more projects can connect. We launched a consultation for reforming demand side of the queue. The biggest grid upgrade since the 1960s is being embarked on to unlock potential across communities.
Session: Grid Capacity West London
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In Harrow we have suffered two industrial-scale dumping incidents on land that is earmarked for much-needed housing development. It has cost thousands of pounds to clear up. The council has issued more than a thousand fines for people dumping their rubbish on the streets. I welcome the decision by the Secretary of State to introduce further measures. Will she outline what those measures are and when they will be introduced, so that we can end this scourge of fly-tipping?
Context
Concern about fly-tipping and its costs to local communities.
Mary Creagh
The hon. Member is absolutely right, but in the last five years under the previous Government, incidents rose by 20%. We are encouraging councils to seize and crush the vehicles of fly-tippers, and we will be consulting on a conditional caution so that people who do fly-tip will pick up and pay up.
Session: Topical Questions
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Clearly, the Home Secretary has the power to ban marches but no power to deal with static protests. This weekend we had the annual al-Quds hate demonstration at which individuals chanted antisemitic slogans regularly, and police could take no action. Will the Minister discuss with the Home Secretary what can be done to police and ban static demonstrations that will clearly lead to contravention of the law?
Context
The questioner raises concerns about static protests that may incite illegal activity, such as the annual al-Quds demonstration.
Jake Richards
The hon. Member raises an important point and I will raise it with the Home Office. The incidents of antisemitism over the weekend were wholly disgraceful, and we are doing everything possible to stamp them out.
Session: Right to Protest
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The Foreign Secretary obviously faces real problems with the settlement she has received from the Chancellor, who is sitting next to her, but given that the last 20 years have led to the near eradication of polio and excellent work on malaria, will she prioritise those programmes to ensure we do not go backwards and once again release polio and malaria across the globe?
Context
The Foreign Secretary faces budget constraints while maintaining support for global health initiatives such as polio and malaria eradication programs.
Chris Elmore
I assure the hon. Member and the House that we are prioritising those areas of continued support in the health sphere of development funding.
Session: Topical Questions
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Over the last two and a half years, our Jewish population have had to put up with hate marches starting outside synagogues. Jewish businesses have suffered hate demonstrations outside. Now shops that store kosher goods have been targeted by demonstrators. What action can the Home Secretary take to make sure that our Jewish population are protected and these evil perpetrators are brought to justice?
Context
The Jewish community has faced hate marches, demonstrations outside businesses and shops storing kosher goods.
Shabana Mahmood
Let me condemn in the strongest possible terms all the antisemitic incidents that the hon. Gentleman has highlighted in his question. This Government will not stand for any antisemitism in our country, and we will take every step we can across Government to wipe out this evil from our society. He will know that I am reviewing police protest powers, and I have already made some announcements on changes that we will make. Lord Ken Macdonald is conducting a review, and I will not hesitate to take further legal steps in order to protect our Jewish community.
Session: Topical Questions
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T5. To discourage ex-offenders from reoffending, it is crucial that on leaving prison they have a stable home, the opportunity of a job, and a stable network around them to stop them reoffending. However, with the advent of early release, there is a risk that those leaving prison are not given that support before they leave the prison gates. What action will the Minister take to ensure that those leaving prison after completing their sentences actually do not reoffend?
Context
Mr Blackman highlights the importance of stable housing, employment opportunities, and social networks to prevent reoffending after release from prison.
Jake Richards
This is utter nonsense, Mr Speaker—the hon. Gentleman completely misunderstands how our legal system works. The Government understand that lawyers have to represent all sorts of people all the time, and we will stand by that. I gently say to the hon. Gentleman that the shadow Attorney General, while serving on the Tory Front Bench, is currently representing Roman Abramovich, a sanctioned Russian oligarch.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State will well know that the terrorist group Hamas refuse to disarm—in fact, they have forced their brutal rule on the Palestinian people. Equally, aid trucks that are desperately needed in Gaza are looted by Hamas terrorists. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to make sure that the international aid that we all want to see given to the Palestinians is not looted and diverted to Hamas?
Context
The terrorist group Hamas refuses to disarm and has forced their rule on the Palestinian people. Aid trucks desperately needed in Gaza are looted by Hamas terrorists.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
The hon. Member raises two important issues. We agree that the decommissioning of Hamas weapons is a central and crucial part of the 20-point plan. That is why the three issues that we have continually prioritised are the establishment of the Palestinian National Committee, the increase in humanitarian aid and the establishment of the process for decommissioning Hamas weapons. We have put forward proposals based on our experience in Northern Ireland and our expertise, and I believe that we urgently need to make progress as part of phase 2.
Session: Gaza and the West Bank Humanitarian Situation
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I am concerned that while the Mayor of London and I have discussed the proposed devolution of Great Northern inner services to Transport for London in November, it would be very controversial to introduce such a measure for all Overground and National Rail services. Are the ongoing conversations about the entirety of the network or are they limited to just one service?
Context
The question arises from discussions about extending Transport for London's management to additional commuter services, particularly regarding Great Northern inner services.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
Discussions at present are limited to the potential transfer of services that form part of the Great Northern inner network. This is a complex matter, but I acknowledge the benefits of integrating certain commuter lines into London Overground and making them part of that network if there is agreement with local authorities along those lines.
Session: Transport for London Commuter Services
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One of the challenges that the NHS faces is dealing with people who are street homeless and who have to go into hospital for treatment. They are then discharged, and it is almost like a rotating saw, unfortunately. What is needed now is targeted funding to ensure that the NHS discharges people to somewhere they have a safe place to live. Will the Minister take up that challenge, particularly at this time of year?
Context
The MP pointed out the challenge that the NHS faces in dealing with people who are street homeless and then discharged from hospitals without a safe place to live.
James Murray (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
The hon. Member is right to point to the fact that people showing up in hospital can often reflect other social issues, whether homelessness, child poverty or other challenges. As a Government, we take tackling homelessness—by which I mean temporary accommodation and rough sleeping—incredibly seriously and we will publish a homelessness strategy shortly.
Session: Support for NHS Patients
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I thank the Minister for that answer. The last Government approved the new SEND school in Harrow, which is supported on a cross-party basis and by all headteachers in Harrow. At the moment, young children have to travel an hour and a half each way to get to specialist schools, which is costing the taxpayer huge amounts of money, and that is unacceptable for those children with special educational needs. All we need is the Department to give its approval, and that school could go ahead and start almost immediately. If this funding is available, will she make it available to the London borough of Harrow to start the school that everyone wants?
Context
The London borough of Harrow supports the establishment of a new SEND school that was approved by the previous government. Currently, children travel long distances to access specialist education.
The Minister for School Standards (Georgia Gould)
The last Government approved a huge number of things that were not funded, which is why this Government was left with a black hole that we are sorting out. I have travelled around the country talking to parents, and we have heard time and again about how they were failed by the last Government. We are investing in the SEND system. In answer to the hon. Member’s specific question about the school, we will be coming forward with more plans shortly.
Session: SEND Specialist Schools
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What action will you take to ensure that west London can contribute to the growing UK economy despite current grid limitations?
Context
Development of data centres, industries and housing in west London is hampered by inadequate national grid capacity.
Michael Shanks
We are upgrading the national transmission system and investing in it. It is crucial for future power sources and ensuring we can deliver power to demand centres where there are economic growth opportunities.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for his answer, but the reality is that chatbots are prompting young people to commit suicide and to self-harm. What action can the Minister take to make sure that these chatbots are taken down and do not give this sort of advice?
Context
The issue of chatbots prompting young people to commit suicide or self-harm has been raised. The Online Safety Act aims to protect users from illegal content, but the extent to which it covers chatbot-related issues remains uncertain.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Kanishka Narayan)
I thank the hon. Member for raising these cases, which are very much in our minds. Each one is a deep tragedy. We have looked very carefully at this issue. Some chatbots, including live search and user-to-user engagement, are in scope of the Online Safety Act 2023, and we want to ensure that enforcement against them, where relevant, is robust. The Secretary of State has commissioned work to make sure that, if there are any gaps in the legislation, they will be looked at fully and robust action will be taken too.
Session: Online Safety
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Foreign criminals and people who come here illegally are not being deported because of human rights laws, frustrating the public. I understand the Lord Chancellor’s predecessor, now the Home Secretary, is considering changing those laws. Could the Lord Chancellor accept my right hon. Friend's Bill to put it into law so we can deport people who should not be here?
Context
The public are frustrated that foreign criminals and illegal immigrants are not deported due to human rights laws. The Home Secretary is considering changing these laws.
The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (Mr David Lammy)
People are claiming article 8 in particular to thwart removal, which is why we need domestic legislation. I remind the hon. Gentleman that this Government are deporting more foreign criminals than ever before—over 5,000 just in our first year in office.
Session: Human Rights Laws
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Thankfully, the living hostages have been returned to receive medical attention and go back to their families, but, very sadly, the bodies of the deceased hostages have not all been returned. That is a key element in this ceasefire treaty. What action is the Foreign Secretary taking to ensure that Israel is supported—and, if necessary, that the Palestinians are supported—to identify the bodies of the deceased hostages and that those bodies are returned, so that there can be closure for the families?
Context
Hostages have been returned, but the remains of deceased hostages have not all been recovered.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
The hon. Member makes an immensely important point. We will all have seen the incredibly moving scenes of hostages returning after the most horrendous captivity, and being returned to their families, but there are those who have lost loved ones—those whose loved ones were taken in that barbaric terrorist attack on 7 October—and are still waiting to have their remains returned. I have spoken to families whose loved ones were lost and who have had the remains returned, but I know how difficult this is and that people need to be able to grieve and pay tribute to their loved ones. We are continuing to press for all the hostage remains to be released. We have also offered support—for example, demining capabilities, where there are concerns about ordnance that might prevent the recovery of remains.
Session: Gaza Peace Plan
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One of the concerns around dragging veterans through lawfare and our courts is the effect on Army recruitment, so what is the Secretary of State’s reaction to Colonel Nick Kitson, the son of General Sir Frank Kitson, saying: ‘How can anyone volunteer to put their life on the line for a Government—indeed a nation—that does not have their back?’
Context
Concerns have been raised about the impact of dragging veterans through legal processes on Army recruitment.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I meet many cadets who are very keen to join the armed forces, and we should pay tribute to all who are offering their services to the nation in defence of the realm. We should not talk down the importance of that recruitment effort. If anybody looks in the round at what we are putting forward, they will think it is reasonable. I have met many veterans who argue—as the Veterans Commissioners have said—that they are not looking for immunity under the law, which is what the legacy Act gave; they are looking for fairness under it, and that is what we will provide.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 Replacement
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One key way to reduce reoffending is ensuring ex-offenders leaving prison have secure places to live and are not tempted to go back to a life of crime. However, early release often does not prepare for this adequately. What action will the Minister take so that prison governors and those involved in the prison service ensure that ex-offenders go into secure accommodation once they leave prison?
Context
Ex-offenders leaving prison often lack secure places to live, which can lead them back into a life of crime. Ensuring that they have stable housing upon release is crucial in reducing reoffending rates.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Jake Richards)
The hon. Member raises an important point and challenge for the Probation Service as the Sentencing Bill comes to fruition. I was with the Justice Secretary just last week meeting probation staff. Housing is a big challenge, but we will work with colleagues from across Government to ensure that we are up to this challenge. The hon. Member makes a good point, and I will update the House in due course.
Session: Reoffending Rates
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I welcome the fact that the backlog of those cases will be examined again, and that historical cases will be looked at, but one of the challenges is that whistleblowers in local authorities were sacked under non-disclosure agreements. What advice is the Crown Prosecution Service providing to ensure that those NDAs are removed so that we can get to the truth of what happened with those terrible crimes against young girls?
Context
Bob Blackman highlights the issue of whistleblowers being sacked under non-disclosure agreements, preventing transparency about the truth behind terrible crimes against young girls.
The Solicitor General
The hon. Gentleman refers to a very important issue, which is why I am pleased to tell him that through our flagship Crime and Policing Bill we are working to implement the key recommendations from the Jay review, one of which is including long-overdue mandatory reporting duties for those working with children. It also includes making grooming an aggravating factor in sentencing and crucial changes to address safeguarding loopholes.
Session: Grooming Gangs
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In Harrow, since the resignation date, many schools report that vacancies are not being filled, and staff feel threatened with redundancy. Schools attribute these issues to the national insurance hikes which penalise their budgets. The MP asked if the Minister will take action to ensure money is provided for school recruitment.
Context
Schools in Harrow are facing staff vacancies and potential redundancies due to the increase in employer national insurance contributions, affecting school budgets.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
The Government are over a third of the way to meeting their plan for change milestone, with 2,300 more teachers in schools and 1,000 more in training compared to last year. The Government have committed significant funding to schools, providing them with over £930 million to support increases in national insurance contributions. An additional £4.7 billion per year by 2028-29 was announced at the spring Budget.
Session: Employer National Insurance Contributions School Redundancies
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India has hit nine terrorist bases since the conflict began after a terrorist attack on 22 April. Now that there is a fragile peace, what efforts will be made to ensure the removal of these bases?
Context
Following a terrorist attack, India and Pakistan engaged in military activity. The House is concerned about the removal of terrorist bases.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
We condemn the terrorism that led to the military activity. The UK will continue working with close partners to deal with this threat and support efforts on both sides to maintain peace.
Session: Kashmir
View All Questions -->
In previous Parliaments, the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee held inquiries on Rochdale, Rotherham and other towns where sex grooming was taking place. We now know that this is a nationwide problem. We heard from Baroness Casey—then Dame Louise Casey—that there was a problem with Pakistani men and their culture, and that the victims were predominantly white girls in council care. We have evidence that council staff, councillors, social workers and possibly the police have been complicit, or have at least turned a blind eye to the issue, so local inquiries will not be good enough. Will the Minister call for a national, judge-led inquiry, in which witnesses are required to give evidence under oath, so that those who turned a blind eye can be brought to justice?
Context
Previous inquiries in Rochdale, Rotherham and other towns have highlighted that this is a nationwide problem involving Pakistani men and predominantly white girls in council care. Council staff, councillors, social workers and possibly the police may have been complicit or turned a blind eye.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
To answer the hon. Gentleman’s final point, to be clear, national statutory inquiries do not send anyone to prison. He rightly mentioned Baroness Casey and her work in Rotherham, and others’ work in Rochdale. The reason why we know about some of the terrible behaviours is because of the brilliant local inquiries undertaken in those towns. Louise Casey is undertaking a national audit that will report shortly.
Session: Grooming Gangs
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One of the great frustrations for medical professionals and patients alike is when patients have appointments but do not turn up. What action will the Secretary of State take to ensure that the system penalises people who miss appointments, so that patients can get the treatment they need when they need it?
Context
Medical professionals and patients face frustration when patients do not show up for scheduled appointments.
Wes Streeting
We are absolutely convinced that better use of digital tools will enable us to reduce the number of missed appointments significantly and factor in the likelihood of no-shows, so that we can reduce waste and eliminate inefficiency. I understand the case for penalties that the hon. Gentleman is making but that is not a route we want to go down until we have made those improvements and judged how effective they have been.
Session: Topical Questions
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Since the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 was passed, local authorities have prevented 1.4 million people from becoming homeless. However, there is still evidence of local authorities refusing to plan to prevent people becoming homeless. Will the Minister take up the private Member’s Bill that I championed the other week, and that was given an unopposed Second Reading, so that we put pressure on the people who should provide the housing, and no one in this country is forced to sleep rough?
Context
The MP mentions a private Member’s Bill that he championed to put pressure on local authorities to prevent people from becoming homeless.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Rushanara Ali)
The hon. Gentleman has done a great deal of cross-party work in support of housing. We have a consultation in place. I am pleased to say that I have met him on a couple of occasions, and he will be aware that we are working hard and at pace to tackle the underlying challenges. There are 164,000 children in temporary accommodation, and rough sleeping has gone up by 164% since 2010. We are determined to take action to deal with the challenges, but that will require concerted work. The Deputy Prime Minister is leading the interdepartmental taskforce on homelessness. I look forward to continuing to work with the hon. Member for Harrow East (Bob Blackman).
Session: Homelessness and Rough Sleeping
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Yesterday was the anniversary of the attempted genocide of the Azerbaijani people by the Armenians, and I am sure the whole House will issue its condolences for that purpose. In the newly liberated territories of Nagorno-Karabakh, hundreds of mines are still being cleared by hand. What action will the Government offer to support Azerbaijan in removing those mines so that the land can be used for beneficial purposes?
Context
Yesterday marked the anniversary of the attempted genocide by Armenians against Azerbaijan, and there are ongoing demining efforts to clear mines from newly liberated territories.
Stephen Doughty (Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
The hon. Gentleman rightly raises the issue of mines. He will know the important role that this country has played in de-mining efforts around the world. I am very happy to write to him with the details of where we are on that in relation to Azerbaijan, and we have discussed that with them on a number of occasions. The most important thing is that we continue to work towards the signing of that peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia so that the people of those two countries, with which we have strong relationships, can live in peace and harmony alongside one another.
Session: Armenia and Azerbaijan Peace Negotiations
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The hon. Gentleman is right that 99% of internet traffic is carried on undersea cables. Clearly the Russians and other enemies would seek to disrupt that, so will the Minister look at utilising autonomous minesweepers that could be deployed to protect our undersea cables? In particular, will he commit to looking at introducing them in the Black sea, if there is a truce between Russia and Ukraine, so that those cables are protected as well?
Context
Concerns about threats to subsea fibre-optic cables carrying internet traffic, particularly from Russia and other enemies. The question references NATO infrastructure protection.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
The hon. Gentleman is right that subsea fibre-optic cables carry about 99% of our data—many people believe it is satellites, but it is cables. As a country we are investing in new technologies and I expect that, as we get further towards the time when the defence review is published, he will see the ambition we have as a Government to invest more in autonomous systems, not only to support undersea cable protection, but to deal with the threat of Russian submarines and other capability, and other threats to our nations. We will ensure that we invest in our defence capabilities and in supporting those people who serve as well.
Session: Defence of Undersea Infrastructure
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Will the Minister update the House on what changes, if any, she intends to make to the Equality Act 2010? In particular, if she is going to make caste a protected characteristic, will she ensure that people of all religions that emanate from the Indian subcontinent are consulted, because that measure would severely impact every such family in this country?
Context
There are concerns about the impact of adding caste to protected characteristics under the Equality Act, particularly for communities from the Indian subcontinent.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
We have no plans to change the Equality Act. As my hon. Friend the Member for Feltham and Heston (Seema Malhotra) set out earlier, through the new race engagement group being led by Baroness Lawrence we will consider any such questions, including the ones that the hon. Gentleman identifies.
Session: Topical Questions
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In London alone, the deficit for this year is estimated to be £313.8 million, but that will grow to £502 million next year unless more money is put in. Clearly, there is a problem that we need to address. Ideally, those with special educational needs should be taught in mainstream education. However, it is much cheaper for local authorities to have in-house provision and special needs schools in the borough, rather than send children to another more expensive borough. Harrow was granted a new special educational needs school under the last Government. Will the Minister confirm that it will proceed? It has the support of all the headteachers and cross-party support.
Context
The MP notes a significant funding shortfall in London's SEND services, projected to worsen without additional investment.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
We recognise the strain that the rising cost of SEND provision is putting on local government, which is why we will be setting out plans to reform the SEND system, with further details to come this year, including how local authorities will be supported to manage their historical and accruing deficits. Decisions on new school provision and buildings will also be made in due course.
Session: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Funding
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It is estimated that only 3% of the 3.5 million British citizens abroad participated in the last general election. What action can the Electoral Commission and my right hon. and learned Friend take to ensure that people who are eligible to vote can do so in future general elections?
Context
Only a small percentage of eligible British citizens overseas voted in the last general election. Bob Blackman asks about actions to increase voter turnout among this group.
Jeremy Wright (Kenilworth and Southam)
My hon. Friend is right that more can always be done to ensure that all those eligible for the franchise, which now includes a substantial number of overseas voters, understand what they are entitled to, and that we offer them all the assistance we can to participate in the process.
Session: Strategy and Policy Statement
View All Questions -->
Mr Speaker, I rarely agree with Sadiq Khan but the Secretary of State has changed her position regarding the third runway. Will she commit to ensuring that any proposal for a third runway will have a full impact assessment before it is approved or denied?
Context
The question pertains to the government's stance on approving a third runway at Heathrow Airport. It follows discussions about infrastructure and transport policies.
Heidi Alexander
I fully support the Chancellor’s call for fresh proposals. Some airports in the south-east are running near capacity and we cannot pretend this is not an issue. I am prepared to take difficult decisions, but any scheme must meet our legal and environmental obligations.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Homelessness: Funding
02 December 2025
Responding: Alison McGovern
Main Concerns
['Homelessness is rising in England; in 2024, 300,000 individuals and families experienced severe homelessness, a 22% increase from 2022. Homeless Link estimates that 8,732 people were rough sleeping in June 2025, up by 5%. London Councils reports that the capital accounts for over half of all homeless households living in temporary accommodation in England.']
Specific Asks
['The Government needs to set out a clear direction in its homelessness strategy and make serious reform to funding models to address major drivers of homelessness. The strategy should prioritize prevention and securing stable housing with support as quickly as possible.']
Ending Homelessness
21 October 2025
Responding: Alison McGovern
Main Concerns
['The debate addresses the moral and practical crisis of homelessness in the UK. Each day, over 4,600 people wake up on the streets without certainty about where they will sleep that night. More than 132,000 households live in temporary accommodation with constant instability, and more than 172,000 children go to school knowing their accommodation is substandard and insecure. Local authorities are spending nearly £5 million every day on poor-quality temporary housing.']
Specific Asks
["The lead MP asks the Minister when the Government will publish and deliver its promised cross-Government strategy for homelessness and confirms that the interministerial group will continue to meet regularly under the Secretary of State's chairmanship. He also suggests his private Member’s Homelessness Prevention Bill as a vehicle to support this work."]
Smokefree Future
11 January 2024
Responding: Andrea Leadsom
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the delay in achieving the Government's Smokefree 2030 target, with deprived areas not on track to hit a smoke-free target of 5% smoking prevalence until after 2050. According to Cancer Research UK, the Government are nearly a decade behind achieving their target for England to be smoke free by 2030. In Harrow alone, tobacco causes over 1,300 hospital admissions annually. Additionally, I worry about the financial burden smoking places on individuals and the public finances, with an estimated £89.3 billion cost to the UK economy per year."]
Specific Asks
["I ask the Government to implement the recommendations in our manifesto for a smoke-free future, which include a 'polluter pays' levy on tobacco manufacturers to generate significant funds needed for smoking cessation measures and public health initiatives. I also urge the Minister to commit to discussing these proposals with Treasury Ministers."]
Smokefree 2030 Target
20 June 2023
Responding: Neil O'Brien
Main Concerns
["The Government's funding for the Smokefree 2030 ambition is insufficient, providing only a quarter of what was recommended by Dr Javed Khan's independent review. Smoking costs the UK economy £173 billion annually and causes around 75,000 premature deaths per year. The public health grant has fallen by a quarter in real terms since 2015, and funding for tobacco control has almost halved. Without sufficient investment, the Smokefree 2030 ambition is at critical risk."]
Specific Asks
["The Government must find additional funding to support the Smokefree 2030 ambition. They should consider a 'polluter pays' levy on tobacco manufacturers and explore retail licensing for tobacco products."]
National Numeracy Day — [Dame Maria Miller in the Chair]
18 May 2023
Responding: Nick Gibb
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the number of people who leave school without basic numeracy capabilities and how low numeracy skills contribute to debt, fraud, financial exclusion, unemployment, and a widening skills gap. Research shows that more than two thirds of unemployed adults have extremely low numeracy skills, costing the UK economy up to £25 billion annually in lost earnings. There is also a gender gap with women significantly less confident in their numeracy skills compared to men, which can affect career opportunities.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to continue supporting initiatives like the Multiply programme, which invests £560 million in giving adults employer-valued maths qualifications and improving their skills through an accessible digital platform. I also call for greater emphasis on teaching basic mathematics until the age of 18, as announced by the Prime Minister.']
Easter Adjournment
30 March 2023
Responding: Marcus Jones
Main Concerns
["The MP highlighted the excellent performance of Harrow Council in balancing its budget and offering free activities for children during Easter holidays. However, he also noted an increase in antisocial behaviour cases reported to his office, with more than 5,550 incidents recorded this year alone. He expressed concern about the expansion of the ultra low emission zone (ULEZ) without proper consultation and a lack of response from the Mayor's office. Additionally, he condemned the Iranian government's actions against protests in Iran and highlighted issues related to proscribed terrorist organizations operating within the UK. The MP raised several issues affecting constituents: a tragic case of a nine-year-old child dying due to inadequate medical support at school; historical discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in the secret services, including the dismissal of one constituent for being gay; delays and difficulties with lift repairs impacting daily life, especially for those living on higher floors; and housing challenges, including high private rents, insufficient social housing, and temporary accommodation issues. Fiona Bruce expressed concern about the lack of progress in implementing the Truro review within the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). She noted that five written parliamentary questions raised by a colleague received generic replies instead of addressing specific recommendations. A detailed expert assessment indicated substantial work remains to be done on FORB implementation, and Fiona highlighted the importance of embedding her role as special envoy for freedom of religion or belief in statute. The MP is concerned about the lack of clarity from tech companies regarding data usage on platforms like TikTok. He notes that while the app is user-friendly, it raises questions about privacy and security, particularly with regards to facial recognition technology and data sharing practices. The MP highlights issues around steroid use among 500,000 to 1 million UK users due to social media pressures."]
Specific Asks
["The MP asked for a proper response to constituents' concerns regarding ULEZ expansion, urged the Government to include the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on the list of proscribed terrorist organisations, and requested that the Education Secretary look into introducing a Romanian GCSE. He also called for an immediate implementation of the proposed tobacco control plan. The MP asked the government to address record-keeping for medical conditions in schools, review historical discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in civil services, consider an open protocol system for lift repairs to increase competition, provide greater rights for tenants under the renters reform Bill, and ensure affordable social housing through increased housebuilding. Fiona Bruce asked Ministers to support a short Bill that would establish her role permanently and ensure continued commitment to the Truro review recommendations. She requested renewed energy in implementing these commitments, particularly recommendation 6 which addresses establishing the role of special envoy on FORB permanently. The MP asks for better transparency on what happens with user data and calls for a regulator of algorithms that can link the issue to data management. He suggests regulating at the pace of industry development to set global standards in AI regulation."]
London Zoo Lease
14 March 2023
Responding: Julia Lopez
Main Concerns
["Bob Blackman expressed concern about the financial and operational challenges facing London Zoo due to its current lease limit of 60 years under the Crown Estate Act 1961. He highlighted that this short lease period hinders the zoo's ability to raise funds, create new partnerships, expand support programmes for local communities, and invest in site regeneration. The speaker noted that many buildings on the site are listed and require modernisation, which is crucial for sustaining the zoo's role as a leading conservation organisation."]
Specific Asks
["Blackman requested the government to extend the lease for London Zoo to 150 years, either through supporting his private Member's Bill or by amending existing legislation. He emphasized the importance of providing certainty on the lease length to attract global investment and improve facilities for both scientists and animals."]
National No Smoking Day
09 March 2023
Responding: Neil O'Brien
Main Concerns
['The hon. Member is concerned about the high number of smokers in the UK, with 6.6 million people regularly smoking and causing self-inflicted harm. He mentions that every day in England, there are 150 new cancer cases linked to smoking and a person admitted to hospital for a smoking-related illness every minute. The hon. Member also points out the socioeconomic disparity where poorer areas like Kingston upon Hull have higher smoking rates at 22%, while more affluent regions like west Oxfordshire see only 3.2% of households containing smokers.']
Specific Asks
["The hon. Member asks for a commitment to introduce a 'polluter pays' charge on the tobacco industry and calls for additional, sustainable funding in next week's Budget to support measures aimed at making England smoke-free by 2030. He also requests that the Government respond promptly to Javed Khan's review of tobacco control."]
Smokefree 2030
26 April 2022
Responding: Maggie Throup
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the lack of progress towards the Government's smokefree 2030 ambition since it was announced three years ago. The original timeframe of 11 years has been reduced to eight, and disadvantaged communities continue to have high smoking rates. Around 200-300 young people start smoking every day, which is why preventative measures are imperative. Cancer Research UK estimates we will not reach a smokefree ambition in disadvantaged areas until 2047 if no action is taken. The north-east is the most disadvantaged region in England with high smoking rates, causing premature deaths and significant economic costs. Local authorities have made progress but more needs to be done due to existing disparities in life expectancy linked to smoking rates."]
Specific Asks
["I ask the Government to consider Javed Khan's review and commit to introducing all its recommendations when it is published in mid-May. If the review recommends a levy, I want the Minister to meet with us as APPG officers and independent experts to discuss proposals for a 'polluter pays' levy that could raise £700 million annually from tobacco company profits. Mary Foy asks the Government to commit to no further delays in bringing forward a plan for smokefree 2030, publish the tobacco control plan within three months after Javed Khan's independent review and include legislation in the next Session essential to making smoked tobacco obsolete by 2030."]
India-UK Trade Negotiations
22 February 2022
Responding: Ranil Jayawardena
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the opportunities and challenges presented by the ongoing trade negotiations between India and the UK. He highlights the importance of maintaining high environmental standards, protecting the NHS, and ensuring that a free trade agreement works for both countries. The MP also mentions the potential for increased exports to £16.7 billion by 2035, the doubling of India's middle class from 30 million in 2019 to 60 million by 2030, and the current tariffs paid on UK exports to India totalling £49 million a year. I am concerned about the detention of my constituent Jagtar Singh Johal in a maximum security prison in India, following what he alleges was torture and arbitrary detention. The integrated review acknowledges the need to protect open societies and democratic values where they are being undermined, but I question whether these values are upheld when dealing with such cases."]
Specific Asks
["The MP asks the Government to update the House on the progress of negotiations and their ambition to conclude them by the end of the year. He also looks forward to the Minister highlighting the opportunities for various sectors, including Scotch whisky, legal services, and renewable energy. I ask the UK government to justify why Jagtar Singh Johal's detention is not considered arbitrary and to reconsider pursuing free trade deals at any price, especially if it compromises the wellbeing of individual UK citizens like Jagtar."]
Air Traffic Control Disruption
10 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
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
Backbench Business
16 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
British Steel
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran Conflict: Ceasefire
09 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Media Green Paper
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Grooming Gangs: Independent Inquiry
18 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
81.6%
80 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
45
45.9% of votes
No Votes
35
35.7% of votes
Abstentions
18
18.4% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
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 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
10
PMQs Asked
282
Ministerial Questions Asked
422
House of Commons Debates Involved
12
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 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+173% above average
This MP:
10
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+2004% above average
This MP:
282
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+377% above average
This MP:
12
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+8583% above average
This MP:
422
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 (%)
+18% above average
This MP:
81.6
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 Bob Blackman's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.