Bob Neill
MP for Bromley and Chislehurst
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Last week, Conservative-controlled Bromley Council's children's services were rated outstanding by Ofsted in all four areas of inspection. That is only the third time that has happened under the current framework. Will the Prime Minister join me in congratulating the officers and members of Bromley Council and perhaps even visit Bromley and see our new cost-saving civic centre?
Context
Last week, Bromley Council's children's services were rated outstanding by Ofsted in all four areas of inspection.
Rishi Sunak
It is perhaps not quite on my way to Doncaster, but I will bear it in mind. I join my hon. Friend in paying tribute to Bromley Council and all the officers involved in providing an incredibly important service in their local community and looking after some of the most vulnerable children in our society.
Assessment
Did not commit to visiting the civic centre
Session: PMQs
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The Deputy Prime Minister should know that an early election in Spain may delay the UK-EU treaty regarding Gibraltar. Will he confirm His Majesty's Government's commitment to prioritising this treaty after the Spanish elections and ensure necessary support for Gibraltar?
Context
A Spanish election could impact the progress of a UK-EU treaty concerning Gibraltar's future, which is crucial for security and prosperity.
Oliver Dowden
The UK remains committed to supporting Gibraltar and aims to conclude the UK-EU treaty as soon as possible.
Assessment
The answer did not provide a specific timeline or mechanism for prioritising and concluding the treaty.
Session: PMQs
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As the Deputy Prime Minister will know, stroke is the greatest cause of adult disability in the country and costs our economy some £26 billion a year, let alone destroying lives. Last year I met Dr John Stephens, who was unable even to sit up unaided after a stroke but who, following an emergency thrombectomy, is now back at work as an NHS GP. Sadly, however, only 30% of eligible patients actually have this surgery. Does the Deputy Prime Minister agree that we need greatly to increase the roll-out of thrombectomies?
Context
Dr John Stephens, a patient who suffered from stroke disability but was able to return to work after receiving thrombectomy surgery, highlighted the critical need for more patients to receive this life-changing procedure. Currently, only 30% of eligible patients receive the surgery.
Dominic Raab
My hon. Friend has been a dedicated champion for stroke survivors. I know from my own constituency how debilitating strokes can be, and also the impact that they can have on the wider family. NHS England is committed to increasing the delivery of mechanical thrombectomies through, for instance, the expansion of local services and local capital investment.
Assessment
The specific request to visit a thrombectomy centre was not addressed directly.
Session: PMQs
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Motorists and small businesses are set to be affected by the Mayor of London's ULEZ charge. Is it not time to revise the Local Government Act for such charges require borough consent?
Context
The Mayor of London's ultra-low emission zone charge will impact motorists and small businesses in outer London.
Rishi Sunak
Agreeing that the Mayor should listen to commuters, families, and small businesses regarding the damaging tax. The Budget will support these groups.
Assessment
Did not commit to revising the Local Government Act; only supported those affected by ULEZ charges
Session: PMQs
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I refer to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests. Arts Council England was established to increase access to great art for the population. There is real concern and anger that its current funding decisions do the exact reverse of that, on the basis of inadequate evidence and a lack of transparency in the process. Will my right hon. Friend meet me and other concerned Members to discuss the situation whereby centres of national excellence, such as the English National Opera, are at risk of closure, and how we can reform the operation of the Arts Council, which many people feel is no longer fit for purpose?
Context
Concerns have been raised about Arts Council England's recent funding decisions, particularly affecting organisations such as the English National Opera.
Rishi Sunak
I know my hon. Friend cares deeply about this issue. He will know that decisions made by the Arts Council are taken at arm's length from Government. Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Ministers have been assured that that process was robust, but I will ensure that he gets a meeting with the relevant Minister to discuss this important matter further.
Assessment
While the answer acknowledges the issue, it does not provide specific details about reforming Arts Council England's operations or its current funding decisions.
Hedging Language
Session: PMQs
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The London Borough of Bromley has achieved the fastest and most significant improvement in children's services of any local authority in England. Much of the credit is due to its exceptional chief executive, Mr Ade Adetosoye. Will my right hon. Friend join me in congratulating Mr Adetosoye on his appointment as a Commander of the British Empire in the new year honours list?
Context
The London Borough of Bromley has achieved the fastest and most significant improvement in children's services, largely due to its chief executive Ade Adetosoye.
Boris Johnson
I cannot believe that Hillingdon is not included in that list, but it is no surprise to me that Bromley runs such a tight ship; I have been familiar with Bromley over many years and my hon. Friend and I have campaigned there together.
Session: PMQs
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Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in the United Kingdom. We have made much progress but regrettably, in the last couple of years, key treatments such as thrombectomy, thrombolysis and timely interventions in hospital have stalled and gone backwards. In particular, most stroke survivors receive less than half the recommended levels of rehabilitation. Can we urgently look towards upgrading the very good national stroke plan to a fully fledged national strategy for stroke, with a Minister responsible for it and a dedicated team of officials in the Department to roll it out?
Context
Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability in the UK. Key treatments have stalled and gone backwards, with most survivors receiving less than half the recommended levels of rehabilitation.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. There are 20 integrated stroke networks in England already, but we want to increase their capacity about tenfold. I shall be happy to ensure that my hon. Friend has the right meeting with the relevant Minister to discuss the matter.
Assessment
Did not confirm upgrading to a full national strategy or appointing a dedicated minister, only offered a meeting and increased capacity for existing networks.
Offering A Future Meeting Instead Of Committing To Specific Actions
Session: PMQs
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I know that the Prime Minister will report to the House in more detail later on the G7 summit. In taking forward the agenda—in particular, the part of the agenda of the summit that calls for us to work to uphold the rule of law and respect for an international rules-based system—will the Prime Minister bear in mind and task all parts of the Government to promote the great asset that we have in English common law, and in the expertise and reputation for integrity of our judiciary and legal systems? Will he make sure that those willing assets are harnessed in the pursuit of that G7 agenda?
Context
The Prime Minister praised the collaborative nature of the G7 summit, focusing on upholding international rules-based systems.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend raises an important and vital sector of our economy—our legal services industry and judicial system, which is admired around the world. It is one of the reasons that we are capable of attracting so much inward investment to this country and one of the key exports that we have been able to promote just recently—thanks, for instance, to our free trade deal with Australia.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not explicitly task all parts of the Government to promote English common law or its judicial system in the pursuit of the G7 agenda.
Session: PMQs
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Like me, the Prime Minister represents a constituency in London's commuter land, so he will be well aware of the small businesses—sole traders, many of them—who operate the coffee stores, newsagents and so on at our railway stations. Their incomes have been absolutely decimated during the pandemic, but they are finding, like my constituent Sanjay Sharma at Chislehurst station, that when they seek to get a reduced level of rent to reflect their reduced turnover, the train operating companies claim that the funding agreement put in place with the Department for Transport does not give them the discretion to do so. The Department appears to say differently, and they have been going around in circles for months trying to get an answer. Will the Prime Minister use the authority of his office, please, to bang heads together and get a solution for them, because if they go broke and we have empty units, that is no income for anybody?
Context
Businesses operating at railway stations have suffered during the pandemic. Bob Neill's constituent Sanjay Sharma is seeking a reduced level of rent but faces resistance from the train operating company.
Boris Johnson
We introduced a policy to provide rent relief for station businesses in March last year. All train operators, including Southeastern in my hon. Friend's constituency, are able to offer business support to their stations. I understand the point he makes about the discrepancy of views. Can I undertake to arrange a meeting with him and the relevant Minister to take it forward?
Assessment
The PM did not explicitly use his authority but offered to arrange a meeting.
Offered Meeting
Session: PMQs
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Tomorrow is the National Day of Gibraltar. Will the Prime Minister join me in sending best wishes to Gibraltar? Also, will he pledge that Her Majesty's Government will continue to give them every support both in terms of sovereignty and all practical issues?
Context
The Prime Minister was asked about support for Gibraltar on their national day, including the sovereign status of Gibraltar and assistance in practical matters.
Boris Johnson
I congratulate my hon. Friend on his continual support for Gibraltar and its people, and I can assure him that the sovereignty of Gibraltar is inviolable.
Session: PMQs
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The Lord Chancellor is aware of concerns about the growth in remand prisoners and innovative measures being taken. Will there be no financial cap on Crown court sitting days?
Context
Concerns about the growing remand prisoner population causing disruption.
Alex Chalk
Before the pandemic, around 9,000 people were awaiting trial; now it is about 16,000. We are considering remote hearings of bail applications and ensuring lawyers can handle more cases.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does she agree that there is now just one piece of the jigsaw that needs to be put in place: to bring the fees for prosecuting counsel in those cases up to the same level as those for defence counsel? That would take about £1.5 million. Will she sit down with the Attorney General and talk with her about how we can do that swiftly?
Context
There is a particular issue with delays in cases of rape and serious sexual offences due to lack of available prosecuting counsel.
Laura Farris
I can reassure my hon. and learned Friend, the Chair of the Select Committee, that I spoke to the chair of the Bar Council about exactly that issue last week, but I want to provide him with further reassurance. First, there has been correspondence between the Lord Chancellor and the senior presiding judge about any case of rape that is more than two years old. That correspondence is a couple of months old, and he said that all cases would be listed by July this year—that applies to 181 cases in England and Wales. I also want to draw my hon. and learned Friend's attention to something I know he will be aware of: that we have increased the fees for section 28 hearings, which take place in an irregular sequence in the court listing, from £670 to over £1,000.
Session: Public Confidence in Victim Support
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Does she accept that one of the main drivers of that is the fact that legal aid fees were increased for defence barristers, but prosecution fees have lagged behind? There is a gap of around £500 in the brief fee between prosecuting and defending. Does she agree that we must plug that gap urgently?
Context
Concerns are raised about delays in cases being heard due to difficulties in obtaining experienced barristers, linked to disparities in legal aid fees between prosecution and defence work.
Victoria Prentis
The Chair of the Select Committee is tempting me to step on the firm territory of the Lord Chancellor, as he well knows. However, I would say gently to my hon. and learned Friend that I do not think money is the only reason why it is not always attractive to prosecute RASSO case after RASSO case.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls Prosecution Rates
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Why is “Law in Action,” a programme that shed light on important areas of our justice system, being cancelled after 20 years? Will the Secretary of State pay tribute to Joshua Rozenberg?
Context
Joshua Rozenberg has presented “Law in Action” on Radio 4 for over 20 years, but today marks the last broadcast.
Alex Chalk
I am grateful for raising this point. Joshua Rozenberg has made a profound contribution, required reading by many. I share regret over his programme's cancellation and echo sentiments about his work.
Session: Topical Questions
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We imprison more people than most of our neighbours in Europe, but still have higher rates of reoffending. Does that not posit the need for a smarter use of prison and alternatives to custody? Would he agree the Sentencing Bill is valuable?
Context
MP welcomes comments on tackling reoffending but notes stubbornly high rates of reoffending despite high imprisonment rates.
Alex Chalk
Stripping out emotion, following evidence: GPS tags doubled; alcohol tags with 97% compliance rate show lower reoffending rates. The Sentencing Bill provides tools for politicians to make more intelligent use of prison and alternatives to custody.
Session: Reducing Reoffending
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I welcome the Attorney General's comments. I think every one of us shares the desire for the fighting to stop, and respect for the International Court of Justice. However, does she agree that it is important to be careful when we use legal terms in broader political debate? For example, the test of plausibility in the jurisprudence of the International Court of Justice is essentially about the admissibility of a claim, rather than its ultimate merits.
Context
The question arises from the Attorney General's comments on the conflict and the importance of respecting legal definitions to avoid misinterpretation.
Victoria Prentis
As ever, the Chairman of the Select Committee makes a very important point and may I take this opportunity to congratulate him from the Dispatch Box on becoming an honorary KC? Words really matter; there will shortly be a statement to the House about that, and about the meaning of the term “extremism.” It is very important that we all choose our words carefully, particularly when it comes to this long-running and difficult conflict.
Session: International Humanitarian Law
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Does my right hon. and learned Friend agree that it is important to bear in mind that the failures are those of the prosecutor or state, not the courts?
Context
The Court of Appeal quashed a number of Horizon appeals based on the failure of prosecution to act fairly, leading to concerns about how any new legislation should frame these issues.
Alex Chalk
This was a failure of the Post Office as an emanation of the state. The first rule in prosecution is not to seek a conviction at all costs, which the Post Office failed to appreciate. The courts have approached this entirely properly.
Session: Horizon System Exoneration of Sub-postmasters
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Precisely because legislating to overturn convictions would be so unprecedented, will my right hon. and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor make sure that before such a step is taken, he is satisfied from conversations with the senior judiciary that the means of triaging and consolidating appeals that currently exist may not be capable of delivering justice within an acceptable timeframe?
Context
The scale of the Horizon IT scandal involves hundreds of victims who have lost faith in the process for seeking justice.
Alex Chalk
That is precisely the point, and my hon. Friend has put his finger on it. Of course, we would not want to stray into the normal lane of the judiciary; we have huge respect for our independent judiciary who do an exceptionally good job of ensuring that there is fairness on the facts before them. As I have said, the case is wholly unprecedented and we will want to have exhausted all alternatives before taking radical action.
Session: Topical Questions
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I have highlighted in the past how I might have gotten people into Wormwood Scrubs Prison and helped them out. Now, HMCI reports raise concerns about staff numbers and lack of purposeful activity. Is it time for a whole-of-Prison Service strategy with rehabilitation at its center? Might a statutory definition of prison purposes including rehabilitation help?
Context
Reports from His Majesty's chief inspector of prisons highlight issues related to staffing and access to education, among others. The questioner asks whether a strategy focused on rehabilitation is necessary.
Edward Argar
I am happy to discuss this further. We have increased staff numbers by 6.7% and are launching the national regime model which will hold prisons accountable for setting out plans for dedicated purposeful activity.
Session: Rehabilitation of Prisoners Prison Estate
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The Solicitor General will recall that back in 2022 the Justice Committee produced a report on fraud in the justice system and the steps needed to improve the way we tackle it. I welcome a number of the changes that have been made, including the appointment of Mr Fisher KC, but will the Solicitor General reflect that one of the areas of concern is the type of fraud that is significant, causes real loss to businesses and individuals, but falls below the level dealt with by the SFO? There is real concern about the capacity and expertise within police forces and the Crown Prosecution Service to tackle that level of fraud, which falls into the gap. What is the fraud strategy and, more broadly, what are the Government going to do to empower the police and prosecuting authorities to tackle that sort of fraud?
Context
The question arises from concerns about fraud cases falling between the levels handled by the Serious Fraud Office and local police/CPS.
Michael Tomlinson
I am grateful to the Chair of the Select Committee for his question. We take all his reports seriously, especially in this area. The CPS charges 76% of all fraud matters placed before it and has a conviction rate of more than 84%. I will commit to reflecting further on this matter.
Session: Fraud and Economic Crime Prosecutions
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Will she also bear in mind that there are further opportunities to improve the victim experience and ensure consistency across the whole country?
Context
The question focuses on improving investigation, conviction, and prosecution rates for victims of rape and serious sexual offences.
Laura Farris
The Victims and Prisoners Bill plays an important role in putting the victims code on a statutory footing, giving victims enhanced rights. We are training 2,000 specialist police officers in rape and serious sexual offences and rolling out section 28 evidence procedures.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Legislation
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Would the Attorney General accept that there has been real progress from 10 years ago? What is the latest position on key targets set from the end-to-end rape review?
Context
Neill references recent Justice Committee evidence about efforts to improve the victim experience in rape and serious sexual offences.
Victoria Prentis
There has been real improvement. Challenging targets were set, worked hard across Government on three specific targets. Many more cases of rape are being prosecuted and rapists convicted. We need to continue building on this progress.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Prosecution Rates
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I would like to pay tribute to the campaigners who challenged joint enterprise. As a result, the Crown Prosecution Service has now committed to monitor prosecutions. I welcome the report at the end of this month, but will the Minister commit to an audit of all joint enterprise convictions, particularly as more black people are disproportionately impacted?
Context
The MP is paying tribute to the retiring Lord Chief Justice, who will be succeeded by Dame Susan Carr as the first female Lord Chief Justice.
Edward Argar
I am grateful to my hon. Friend. I know Lord Burnett and I can pay tribute to his exceptional period as Lord Chief Justice.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Justice Committee proposes an inquiry into future prison population and estate capacity, prompted by concerns that adult male prisons are 23% overcrowded with worse conditions in local prisons. Even if new building programmes complete on time, there would be a shortfall of about 2,300 places in March 2025. What will be done to address this? Should we have conversations about reasonable prison expectations?
Context
The Justice Committee is considering an inquiry into prison population and estate capacity due to concerns about overall overcrowding. Projections indicate a shortfall of about 2,300 places in March 2025.
Damian Hinds
We must constantly debate these matters intelligently and constructively. Projections change, and many complex factors affect capacity. Since 2010, crowding has reduced by 2,000 places overall.
Session: Prison Estate
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Will the Minister say, as friends, to his Israeli counterparts that any proposals reducing the independence of the judiciary would not help Israel's cause and stability?
Context
The independent judiciary in Israel has struck down arbitrary actions by Israeli authorities, contributing to the country's strength as a democracy.
David Rutley
I understand my hon. Friend's important point. We endorse the words of Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who is seeking a compromise.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
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Will she therefore welcome the increase in prosecution counsel fees to an equal level with those for the defence so that we get the most competent people doing these cases? Will she also accept that more investment must continue to go in so that the Crown Prosecution Service can continue to recruit sufficient experienced rape prosecutors and have the digital technology to deal with things such as mobile phone evidence?
Context
The MP is concerned about the skills required for investigating and prosecuting serious sexual offences.
Victoria Prentis
My hon. Friend knows well that I do not hold the budget that he is seeking to influence, but he is one of the best campaigners in the House and, as ever, he made his point extremely clearly. I watched with interest his Committee's proceedings earlier this week and noted what was said.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Will the Government update and modernise our human rights laws as necessary, remaining in adherence to the convention?
Context
Concerns about modernising human rights law while adhering to the convention on human rights.
Alex Chalk
Yes, we remain committed to a human rights framework up-to-date and fit for purpose. We have taken action on specific issues through various bills.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the appointment of Dame Sue Carr, who will be the first woman to hold this position. Does the Lord Chancellor agree that one area of concern is the growth in the remand population? In January, a report on remand was produced by the Justice Committee with some recommendations accepted and others not. Will he revisit these recommendations?
Context
The MP welcomes the appointment of Dame Sue Carr as Lord Chief Justice and raises concerns about the growing remand population in prisons.
Alex Chalk
I join my hon. Friend in welcoming Dame Sue Carr, whose appointment has been widely welcomed. Regarding remand, there are 4,500 to 5,000 more people in custody compared to the pre-pandemic period. Technology like electronically monitored tags can help decide if bail is appropriate.
Session: Prison Overcrowding
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Will the Minister recognise that there is a problem of insurers withdrawing from the market, and intervene to ensure people can get proper quotes?
Context
The MP highlighted a market withdrawal issue faced by his constituents where the previous insurer is refusing to quote despite risks being removed.
Lee Rowley
My hon. Friend makes an important point. That is why we are trying to encourage and work with the ABI and large insurers, to bring forward a new scheme that should help with highlighted issues. I hope for more news in coming weeks; if not, keen to talk to my hon. Friend and local residents about moving forward.
Session: Cladding and Building Remediation
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Does the Attorney General agree that it is important to remember that, where there is sufficient evidence to put a case before a jury, the conviction rate for rape and serious sexual offences is entirely consistent with other violent offences?
Context
The question arises from the issue of ensuring that evidence presented by police to CPS is sufficient for prosecution.
Victoria Prentis
Well, this is a Justice Committee alumni session and it is always good to hear from our Chair. He makes an important point. It is true that the CPS can prosecute only the cases that are referred to it. If we strip out the guilty pleas, the CPS is running at a conviction rate of between 50% and 60%. It always prosecutes where there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest to do so.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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If it ain't broke, don't fix it may apply in this case. If changes to the human rights regime are thought necessary, perhaps Sir Peter Gross's report offers a better way forward. Do his Department's important priorities include ensuring fully efficient and working court systems and an efficient and humane prison system? Meeting the Bar Council and the Law Society to iron out remaining matters from the Bellamy review may be higher priorities.
Context
The Minister is asked about whether his Department's important priorities are those that affect people's day-to-day lives in their interactions with the justice system.
Alex Chalk
My hon. Friend makes powerful points, and they are borne very much in mind.
Session: Bill of Rights Bill
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Does she agree that testing legal positions is an important aspect of evolving case law in adapting to new situations? The questioner seeks confirmation on whether this principle supports the Government's approach to challenging existing norms through legislation.
Context
The questioner raises the importance of testing legal positions through case law to adapt to changing circumstances and emphasizes this as a normal practice, questioning if it applies to current debates.
Victoria Prentis
I agree wholeheartedly. I feel it is perfectly proper for lawyers—Government lawyers, in this case—to test a novel idea before the courts. In fact, one reason I very much enjoyed my career in the Government Legal Service is that Government lawyers frequently do so.
Session: Illegal Immigration Bill ECHR Compatibility
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Last year, the Government accepted the Bellamy review's recommendations on criminal legal aid. When will the Government publish the board's membership and detailed terms of reference?
Context
The Government accepted the Bellamy review's recommendations on criminal legal aid, including an independent advisory board.
Dominic Raab
I thank the Chair of the Justice Committee. They will be published very shortly.
Session: Topical Questions
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What arrangements have now been made to finalise the conditions and terms of payment for section 28 proceedings?
Context
The Government introduced the pre-recorded cross-examination under section 28.
Dominic Raab
I thank the Chair of the Select Committee for his question. We have already introduced the statutory instrument to increase that uplift for those lawyers conducting the section 28 pre-recorded evidence. It has now been rolled out nationwide and it will start to make a difference.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Further to the pertinent question asked by my hon. Friend the Member for Perth and North Perthshire (Pete Wishart), industry surveys indicate that half of musicians across the UK are contemplating leaving the industry. Not just individual musicians are affected. Grassroots music venues run at pre-tax profits of barely 0.2%. With the triple whammy of Brexit, covid and the cost of living crisis, many may have to close, destroying the ecosystem that nurtures and sustains emerging talent. What assessment have Ministers made of the potential impact that easing the tax burden on music venues could have on improving the outlook for this important sector of our music industry?
Context
The MP raises concerns about grassroots music venues operating at pre-tax profits of barely 0.2% and the potential closure of many due to Brexit, COVID-19, and the cost of living crisis.
Julia Lopez
I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising those important questions, some of which we engage on regularly with the Treasury, particularly energy. As I said in my previous answer, we have schemes to support grassroots venues such as the ACE scheme extended until March and we will continue to look at what more we can do to support this important sector.
Session: Musicians Cost of Living
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The Minister should address the issue of unsustainable numbers of people changing trains at London Bridge due to lost direct services causing safety concerns. The station has had to be closed on occasions.
Context
Due to timetable changes, passengers are facing issues like delays and overcrowding at London Bridge.
Huw Merriman
Of course, I am very sorry about that issue. There was a points failure causing crowd control issues at London Bridge. We are working with Network Rail and Transport for London to learn from their experience of overcrowded tubes. Changes were made to the timetable to add resilience and reduce cancellations.
Session: Southeastern Railway
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The Secretary of State will know the importance of good, reliable data in driving justice policy and will recognise the work done by the Legal Education Foundation and its director Dr Natalie Byrom in this regard. Will he welcome its establishment of Justice Lab, a new dedicated research centre in this field, which is being launched in Dining Room A in this House tomorrow?
Context
The Legal Education Foundation is establishing Justice Lab, a new dedicated research centre in the field of justice data.
Dominic Raab
As always, the Chair of the Justice Committee draws our attention to critical developments in the criminal justice system. Data and that initiative are incredibly important.
Session: Topical Questions
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Has he seen the research published this week in the Criminal Law Review based on the largest ever dataset of Crown court cases, which suggests that convictions for rape have risen markedly since 2018 and now stand at 75%, against an increase in charging as well, and that the conviction rate for rape and serious sexual offences is now higher than for other offences of violence against the person? That is important information. That work was carried out by Professor Cheryl Thomas, who is regarded as the leading academic expert on juries, using the largest ever dataset. Does the Minister agree that we should take that into account when we consider how best to take forward our policies to bear down on these serious offences—using up-to-date information to adjust our policies?
Context
The question refers to recent research indicating a significant rise in the conviction rate for rape cases, suggesting improvements in handling such crimes.
Edward Argar
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Significant progress has been made, and it is important to base our debates on evidence. The number of people convicted of an adult rape offence went up by 65% over the past year; compared to pre-pandemic levels, convictions are up by 41%. That is significant progress.
Session: Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls
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Surely people doing service to this country should have a dedicated hotline for their concerns regarding visa extensions?
Context
Medical professionals in the NHS are facing issues with skilled worker visa extensions and lack of response from Home Office.
Robert Jenrick
We introduced the health and social care visa making it easier for the NHS to recruit internationally. There is an enhanced service standard of 15 working days for extensions to those visas, which is currently being met.
Session: Topical Questions
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I think the Attorney General has just demonstrated that she and the Solicitor General are well up to the task of internal inquiries. In welcoming the report, will she recognise that, given the Attorney General's important role of speaking truth to power—to Government—it is also important that the Law Officers should be consulted in a timely fashion, and appropriately and fully, on any controversial matters that may have a legal aspect, and that fellow Ministers should then listen and act accordingly, consistently?
Context
The Law Officers are expected to provide timely and impartial legal advice to the Government.
Victoria Prentis
I thank my hon. Friend—he is a very learned Gentleman, on whose Committee I was extremely proud to sit for many years—for his question, which I think was more of a statement. It is important to note that the Government's commitment to the rule of law is absolute, and I will do my very best to uphold that.
Session: Roles of Lord Chancellor and Law Officers
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Every Crown court is affected by backlogs, rising to crisis proportions. The Government resolved the issue of defence counsel availability but now the problem is repeated unavailability of prosecution counsel. Since our system requires equality of arms between prosecution and defence—barristers of equal seniority—is it important that the Secretary of State and his junior Minister support Attorney General in getting increased funding from Treasury for equivalent prosecution fees?
Context
The MP highlighted a concern over the availability of prosecution counsel due to unequal funding, affecting the equality of arms principle.
Mike Freer
My hon. Friend raises important point, and I share his concern about ensuring all elements in criminal justice system are paid appropriately for their efforts. We continue debate on how we can invest in whole system so it runs smoothly for all involved, especially victims. Happy to discuss details with my hon. Friend next week in Justice Committee.
Session: Backlog of Criminal Court Cases
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May I, both personally and on behalf of the Committee, warmly welcome the Attorney General to her place? Everyone who saw her sworn in will know how positive the reaction of Bar and Bench was to the appointment of someone who takes her responsibilities so seriously, and we look forward to working with her. When the Director of Public Prosecutions gave evidence to the Justice Committee last month, she stressed that the pressures on the CPS must be seen in the context of the justice system as a whole, and that the solution to those pressures required consistent support for the system, but in particular support for CPS staff—
Context
The Justice Committee has been discussing the pressures faced by the CPS in the context of broader justice system issues, with emphasis on staff support.
Michael Tomlinson
That pleasure falls to me, Mr Speaker. I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his kind words, as I know the Attorney General is. He is right to highlight the words of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and he will know that the Attorney General and I work closely with the director and listen carefully to what he says.
Session: Criminal Justice Backlog CPS Effectiveness
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In 2018, HM Inspectorate of Prisons issued an urgent notification document setting out serious failings at HM Prison Exeter. Last week, the inspectorate, for the first time ever, issued a second consecutive notification about the same prison. Will he look urgently at why the failings were not picked up in the four years in between?
Context
HM Inspectorate of Prisons issued an urgent notification document about serious failings at HM Prison Exeter in 2018 and again last week, raising questions about why these were not addressed.
Damian Hinds
I will indeed. I take this extremely seriously, as my hon. Friend knows. This is the first time that we have had two consecutive urgent notifications about the same prison. The Department will come forward with a full action plan within 28 days.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Minister is of course right to say that we need to modernise and improve IT systems and replace the legacy systems, but will he sit down and talk in some detail with users of the system, both judges and practitioners? For example, a platform that is unable to record whether a case concludes in a guilty plea will not be very much help in tracking the progress of cases or improving listing at a time when we have massive backlogs. Practical changes are surely what is needed.
Context
The questioner notes that the Common Platform is supposed to help track cases but fails in recording guilty pleas. He suggests practical changes are needed.
Mike Freer
My hon. Friend makes a good point. I am always happy to speak to staff groups and my legal friends in the justice system to iron out any particular issues, but the roll-out of the Common Platform needs to continue.
Session: Common Platform
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When Kabul fell, the Government rightly undertook to assist in the relocation of courageous Afghan judges who had taken a key role in the fight against the Taliban. Since then, however, a High Court decision has ruled against the operation of the latest resettlement schemes and there is concern that the level of support initially given is drying up. Will the Minister meet me to discuss, with members of British judiciary, schemes and ways by which we might improve and revise the system?
Context
Concerns about the level of support for relocated Afghan judges.
Leo Docherty
Of course, I am happy to meet. We have had some success extracting judges, but if my hon. Friend would like to meet me to furnish me with those specific details, I will try to expedite a response.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State commend the work of the Stroke Association and its “saving brains” campaign? And will he meet members of the all-party parliamentary group on stroke?
Context
MP asked for the Secretary of State to commend the Stroke Association's work and meet with members of the all-party parliamentary group on stroke.
Helen Whately (Department of Health)
I am very happy to commend the work of the Stroke Association, and I would be delighted to meet my hon. Friend to discuss this further.
Session: Topical Questions
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If she will make an assessment of the impact of the universal credit minimum income floor on performers and creative workers with unpredictable and fluctuating earnings. I understand the objective of the minimum income floor but perhaps the Minister does not appreciate that for people in performing arts and creative sectors, it is not just a short-term issue with fluctuating incomes.
Context
Neill raises concerns about the impact of the policy on self-employed individuals in the performing arts and creative sectors, highlighting that these individuals often face unpredictable earnings due to cancellations and fluctuations in their work schedules.
David Rutley
Universal credit supports self-employed people and the Department treats all sectors equally. We offer a 12-month start-up period to balance support for claimants and protect public funds.
Session: Universal Credit Performers and Creative Workers
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If she will make an assessment of the impact of the universal credit minimum income floor on performers and creative workers with unpredictable and fluctuating earnings. I understand the objective of the minimum income floor, but perhaps the Minister does not appreciate that for people in the performing arts and creative sectors it is not just a short-term period for which they have unpredictable and fluctuating incomes. Shows are cancelled at short notice, even established performers with viable careers get hit disproportionately by this policy.
Context
Neill questions the impact of the policy on self-employed people with fluctuating incomes, specifically those in the performing arts and creative sectors. He mentions that these individuals often face unpredictable earnings due to cancellations and fluctuations in their work schedules.
David Rutley
We recognise fluctuating earnings for all self-employed people and offer a 12-month start-up period. Universal credit supports self-employed individuals, and we treat all sectors equally. The 12-month period is designed to balance support for claimants and protect public funds.
Session: Universal Credit Performers and Creative Workers
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Thanking the Attorney General, I note that while significant efforts have been made to support victims, inconsistencies still exist. Will you commit to carefully considering our committee's recommendations on this bill?
Context
The draft Victims Bill presents an opportunity for improving consistency and standardization of support services for victims.
Suella Braverman
The Government is introducing measures in the Victims Bill to improve victims' experiences, including ensuring their voices are heard both before and after charges. We are also proud of the victims code implemented last year.
Session: Access to Justice for Victims of Crime
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Will the Minister reassure practitioners that he accepts £135 million as a first step and that the Government are willing to engage with the professions on further steps?
Context
The MP referenced the Justice Committee's acceptance of Sir Christopher Bellamy's review, which relates to fees for both barristers and solicitors in criminal work.
James Cartlidge
The Minister confirmed 15% fee increases for most criminal legal aid schemes by the end of September, stating readiness to move on to the next phase of reform with all parties including CBA and Bar Council.
Session: Duty Solicitors England
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
World Stroke Day
23 November 2023
Responding: Andrew Stephenson
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the lack of recognition for stroke symptoms, despite improvements in awareness. In the UK, a stroke occurs every five minutes, with over 100,000 people affected annually. Two-thirds of survivors leave hospital with disabilities, and it is also a leading cause of death. The cost to the economy is estimated at £26 billion per year, predicted to rise to £75 billion by 2035. There are significant variations in access to mechanical thrombectomy across the country, ranging from 7.8% in London to 0.3% in the east of England.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to commit to removing the postcode lottery for stroke treatment and improving patient outcomes through investment in treatments like mechanical thrombectomy. I also urge him to address workforce shortages, particularly in clinical radiology consultants, and ensure adequate provision of community stroke services to improve care for survivors.']
Imprisonment for Public Protection Sentences
27 April 2023
Responding: Damian Hinds
Main Concerns
['The lead MP is concerned about the current situation of IPP sentences, noting that some 97.5% of IPP prisoners currently in prison have already served their tariff, with many having served well beyond it. He highlights the psychological harm caused to individuals serving an IPP sentence and the difficulties faced by these prisoners in progressing through their sentences. He also mentions the high rates of self-harm among IPP prisoners, with 65 out of 250 IPP prisoners who have died in custody since the sentence came into effect taking their own lives.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the government to reconsider its response and revisit the recommendations made by the Justice Committee. He calls for a resentencing exercise for all prisoners still serving an IPP sentence on licence, emphasizing that this is necessary to provide basic fairness for these individuals.']
Arts Council England: Funding — [MR PETER BONE in the Chair]
18 January 2023
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
["Bob Neill expressed concern about the Arts Council's lack of transparency and accountability in its funding decisions. He highlighted specific issues such as the removal of English National Opera from the national portfolio, which would have resulted in significant redundancies and the closure of the company if not for recent changes. Neill also pointed out that there is a lack of strategic direction and proper governance in how Arts Council England allocates funds, leading to negative impacts on arts institutions across the country."]
Specific Asks
["Neill urged the Minister to intervene more directly with Arts Council England, as their decisions have undermined the Government's levelling-up policy. He asked for a comprehensive strategy that considers economic and social impacts, and ensures transparency in decision-making processes."]
Covid-19: Deteriorating Long-Term Health Conditions
10 March 2022
Responding: Gillian Keegan
Main Concerns
["Mr Neill is concerned about the deterioration in people with long-term health conditions during the covid-19 pandemic. He highlights issues such as cancelled or delayed appointments, reduced specialist support, and difficulties for those relying on community rehabilitation services. The debate focuses on stroke, cardiovascular conditions, neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, and cystic fibrosis, each of which has faced unique challenges due to the pandemic's restrictions."]
Specific Asks
['Mr Neill calls for an urgent plan with funding and specific measures to address the issues faced by people with long-term health conditions. He asks the Government to provide a national rehabilitation strategy, appoint a national clinical lead, and ensure consistent provision of community rehabilitation services.']
The Coroner Service
28 October 2021
Responding: James Cartlidge
Main Concerns
['Mr. Neill is concerned about the inconsistencies in the coroner service due to localised funding, which affects bereaved families differently across the country. He notes that previous reports have called for a national coroner service but the government has been unwilling to agree, citing cost as an issue despite compelling evidence suggesting otherwise. Mr. Neill highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the system, mentioning unfulfilled promises regarding reviews of existing legislation and the publication of documents like the review from 2015.']
Specific Asks
['Mr. Neill asks the government to reconsider its stance on a national coroner service and to publish cost analyses that support their conclusions. He also requests information on plans for establishing an inspectorate, addressing access to legal aid for bereaved families, and improving recruitment of pathologists by reviewing fees.']
Stroke: Aftercare
21 April 2021
Responding: Jo Churchill
Main Concerns
["Bob Neill is concerned about the lack of consistent rehabilitation for stroke survivors after initial acute treatment. He cites his wife's experience where she did not receive the recommended level of therapies due to resource limitations, such as shortages in speech and language therapists. He notes that two-thirds of stroke survivors leave hospital with a disability, highlighting the need for long-term care beyond discharge."]
Specific Asks
['Neill asks the government to provide effective support and rehabilitation, including personalized long-term care programmes and more integrated services. He seeks details on the timing and resourcing of the upcoming national stroke programme and calls for better recruitment of specialist therapists across all disciplines.']
Ministry of Justice: Legal Aid Spending
22 October 2020
Responding: Alex Chalk
Main Concerns
['Neill is concerned that the legal aid system is becoming unsustainable due to financial pressures and a reduction in spending. He mentions a significant reduction in legal aid solicitors willing to undertake duty work, with the average age of these solicitors being around 50. Additionally, there is a geographic difficulty in finding legal aid practitioners for housing advice. Neill also notes that early access to legal advice has been crucial and that changes made by LASPO have not necessarily stood the test of time.']
Specific Asks
['Neill asks the government to continue the review of LASPO in a timely manner, commit interim funding where appropriate based on evidence, and ensure the sustainability of legal aid under current pressures. He also suggests improving public awareness about the importance of access to justice.']
Criminal Justice Reform
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Building Safety and Resilience
11 September 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
I rise to open this debate on the critical issue of building safety and resilience, following last week’s publication of the Grenfell inquiry’s final report. Sir Martin Moore-Bick’s findings on an ent...
Coroners
24 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
This instrument is an important part of the Government’s ongoing support for coroner services in their continuing recovery from the covid-19 pandemic. It extends for a further two years the disapplica...
Valedictory Debate
24 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
In her concluding remarks, Harriet Harman reflected on her 42-year tenure in the House of Commons, thanking her constituents for their support and expressing pride in being a Labour MP. She emphasised...
HIV Compensation Scheme Bill - Lords amendment 35, Government amendments (b) and (c), Lords amendment 46, etc.
24 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The lead MP opened the debate by moving several amendments to address various aspects of the HIV Compensation Scheme Bill. He discussed Lords amendments including 35 and Government amendments such as ...
Tribunal and Inquiries
24 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The statutory instrument forms part of the Government’s preparations for implementing the Illegal Migration Act 2023 and delivers necessary tribunal procedurals. The Lord Chancellor is responsible for...
Arrests and Prison Capacity
22 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Crime (Overseas Production Orders etc) Bill - Clause 30 - Child sex offences: grooming aggravating factor
15 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I move that the clause be read a Second time. This amendment aims to ensure that child sex offenders who engage in online grooming receive additional punishment, reflecting the severe nature of this a...
End of Custody Supervised Licence: Extension
08 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Conviction Quashing Bill - Clause 1 Amendment (25)
29 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Amendment 25 seeks to clarify that clause 1(1) will apply only to convictions made before the Act's coming into force. This ensures that the legislation does not retroactively affect cases outside its...
10
PMQs Asked
87
Ministerial Questions Asked
163
House of Commons Debates Involved
7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
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
+549% above average
This MP:
87
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+178% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3254% above average
This MP:
163
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
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 Neill's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.