Bradley Thomas
MP for Bromsgrove
Con
4 Jul 2024 - 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 to his place. He knows the importance of protecting local green belt; indeed, he made it a key part of his by-election campaign in Makerfield. It is incredibly important in my constituency too, where there has been an 85% increase in the housing target and we are 89% green belt. The Prime Minister says that he wants to do things differently and share the burden across the country, so will he meet me to discuss a new path forwards?
Context
The MP notes the 85% increase in the housing target and the 89% green belt coverage in his constituency, reflecting the importance of protecting local green belt areas.
Andy Burnham
It is about getting a balance, isn't it? Yes, we need to protect green belt where we can, but we also need to build the homes that people need, and it is about striking a balance. In Greater Manchester, I always took a brownfield-first approach, and that is what I will do. I have asked the Chancellor to work with my Cabinet colleagues to release more public land so that we can build more homes on brownfield land, but I understand the concerns that the hon. Member is raising. I will ask the Housing Minister to meet him, to see if we can further build some common cause, but there is a balance to be struck.
Assessment
Did not commit to meeting the questioner, only suggested Housing Minister meet him
But I Understand The Concerns That The Hon. Member Is Raising
Session: PMQs 2026-09-02
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In two weeks, new steel quotas and 50% tariffs will be implemented. UKF Steel in my constituency faces closure by the end of the year if no action is taken. What steps are being taken to mitigate this economic disaster?
Context
New steel quotas and tariffs will come into force in two weeks, risking job losses and deindustrialisation.
David Lammy
The hon. Gentleman raises a serious issue, but he might have forgotten that this House legislated for emergency measures to save steel across our country. Further action will be taken and discussed at the Prime Minister's G7 agenda.
Assessment
Did not specify concrete actions or timeline beyond stating it is on the Prime Minister's agenda.
Session: PMQs
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Acorns children’s hospice provides compassionate care to very young cancer patients and their families across Bromsgrove and the villages, yet it faces a staggering £416,000 increase in national insurance contributions as a result of choices made by this Government. With no exemption for hospices and no uplift in non-capital funding, this means that the charity will have to draw on charitable donations made by the public, which will affect frontline services. This is not right, so will the Prime Minister take this opportunity to right that wrong and exempt hospices from this tax?
Context
Acorns children’s hospice is facing a significant increase in national insurance contributions due to government policies, which could affect charitable donations and frontline services. The question arises from the need for an exemption or additional funding.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
We are investing £100 million in adult and children’s hospices to improve facilities, equipment and accommodation, as well as £26 million in funding through the children’s hospice grant. [Interruption.] Conservative Members’ cries and moaning would have a lot more value if they started their questions with an apology for crashing the economy in the first place.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address the specific ask for an exemption from national insurance contributions.
Diverting To Blame
Session: PMQs
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I just heard the Secretary of State say that there should be a brownfield-first approach, but what is going on in Bromsgrove, and in many other constituencies, is contradictory: an 85% increase in the housing target in a constituency that is 90% green belt. I challenge the Secretary of State to think again and prioritise urban densification, which is fundamental to the redevelopment of towns, cities and urban centres that are in desperate need of renewal. Why does she not just admit that she has got this wrong and change tack?
Context
The MP is concerned about an 85% increase in the housing target in Bromsgrove, a constituency that is 90% green belt, and challenges the Secretary of State to prioritise urban densification.
Matthew Pennycook
We have not got it wrong: the new NPPF does prioritise urban development and densification. As I have made clear to the hon. Gentleman a number of times, local authorities can justify a lower housing requirement than the figure set by the standard method on the basis of local constraints, such as land availability. It is for local planning authorities themselves to determine whether there are exceptional circumstances that justify the release of green belt, and we fully expect them to first demonstrate that they have fully examined all other reasonable options for meeting identified need for development, including making as much use as possible of suitable brownfield sites and underutilised land.
Session: Urban Housing Densification 2026-09-07
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What steps she is taking to ensure that her Department has effective strategies for prioritising housing densification in urban areas?
Context
The MP is concerned about the Department's strategies for prioritising housing densification in urban areas, specifically mentioning the need for increased housing within settlements.
Matthew Pennycook
The new national planning policy framework, published on 17 August, includes a number of new policies designed to increase densification inside settlements, including by encouraging the upward expansion of existing homes and the creation of new dwellings in existing plots.
Session: Urban Housing Densification 2026-09-07
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It is good to hear the Minister acknowledge that China is a threat. The directors of GCHQ and MI5 have been clear that China presents the most significant state-based threat to the UK. The Government have previously talked about their China audit; will they commit to publishing it in full?
Context
The government has previously mentioned a China audit, but there has been no information on its publication. GCHQ and MI5 have stated that China is the most significant state-based threat to the UK.
Chris Elmore
As the hon. Gentleman knows, there have been a series of questions on this issue in recent times. I am happy to update him again in writing.
Session: China Threat to UK Interests 2026-09-01
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What assessment has the government made of the level of threat China poses to UK interests?
Context
The question arises from concerns about China's national security threats to the UK, including cyber-attacks, foreign interference, and espionage. Previous government statements have acknowledged these threats.
Chris Elmore
This Government fully recognise that China poses a series of threats to UK national security, from cyber-attacks, foreign interference and espionage targeting our domestic institutions to the transnational repression of Hongkongers. Yet China, as the world's second largest economy and the UK's third largest trading partner, presents the UK with opportunities—not engaging is no choice at all. Our approach to China is consistent: we will co-operate where we can and challenge where we must.
Session: China Threat to UK Interests 2026-09-01
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Magistrates are the backbone of the justice system, yet magistrates in Worcestershire increasingly talk to me about the pressures on their workload and the difficulty of attracting new volunteers. What steps are the Government taking to increase the attractiveness of the magistracy?
Context
Magistrates in Worcestershire face increased pressures and difficulties attracting volunteers for the role.
Sarah Sackman
I agree with the hon. Gentleman that our magistrates are the backbone of our justice system. I meet magistrates from across the length and breadth of the land, and I have met the Magistrates Association. We have to make being a magistrate more attractive.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-06-30
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Does the Minister recognise that rural job opportunities have gone down, rural unemployment is up, and business costs have directly contributed to their inability to continue recruiting? Will she impart on the next Prime Minister the importance of a change of course?
Context
The MP noted that businesses in his constituency report a decrease in job opportunities and an increase in unemployment, blaming the current government's policies for increased employment costs.
Diana R. Johnson
The employment rate in rural areas is 78.4%, compared with 74.8% in urban areas, with job opportunities in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and scientific and technical sectors. Economic inactivity has fallen by 0.8%. Under this Government, the number of jobs in agriculture has risen by 5,000 compared to a decline under the previous government.
Session: Job Opportunities Rural Areas 2026-06-29
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What recent assessment has been made of trends in the level of job opportunities in rural areas? The picture painted by the Minister does not reflect my constituents' experiences. Rural unemployment is up and business costs have risen, impacting recruitment efforts.
Context
The MP noted concerns about job trends in his constituency, highlighting that businesses report increased costs under the current government have affected their ability to recruit.
Diana R. Johnson
The employment rate in rural areas stands at 78.4%, compared with 74.8% in urban areas, with job opportunities in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and scientific and technical sectors. Economic inactivity among people aged 16 and over has decreased by 0.8%. Under this Government, the number of jobs in agriculture has risen by 5,000 compared to a decline under the previous government.
Session: Job Opportunities Rural Areas 2026-06-29
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Some 42% of employers have cut back on graduate recruitment, and across Bromsgrove and the villages there has been a 25% increase in youth unemployment over the last two years. With employment up by 920,000 since the election, does she regret the choices made and their impact on young people's futures?
Context
The MP noted a structural challenge facing youth unemployment and that the government has committed £2.5 billion over three years to support young people.
Torsten Bell
The background to this is that employment is up 920,000 since the election. As I just said, there are structural challenges when it comes to youth unemployment. I gently refer the Tories to the fact that we saw a 250,000 increase in the number of those not in education, employment or training in the last three years that they were in office, and youth apprenticeships saw a 40% fall when they were in office. This Government are getting on with supporting young people. That is why this month will see the introduction of a £3,000 hiring bonus for firms that take on someone aged 18 to 24 who has been looking for work for six months.
Session: Youth Unemployment
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What assessment has been made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of her Department's policies on levels of youth unemployment? Some 42% of employers have cut back on graduate recruitment, and across Bromsgrove and the villages there has been a 25% increase in youth unemployment over the last two years. With unemployment undoubtedly weighing heavily on the Chancellor's mind, does she regret the choices she has made and the impact that they are having on young people's futures?
Context
The MP noted a 25% increase in youth unemployment in Bromsgrove over the last two years and that 42% of employers have cut back on graduate recruitment.
Torsten Bell
UK employment levels are strong by historic and international standards. The hon. Member is right, though, to highlight a structural challenge when it comes to young people being out of work and, for that matter, education. That is why we have committed £2.5 billion over the next three years to the youth guarantee, helping to deliver up to 500,000 opportunities to earn and learn. The background to this is that employment is up 920,000 since the election. As I just said, there are structural challenges when it comes to youth unemployment. This Government are getting on with supporting young people. That is why this month will see the introduction of a £3,000 hiring bonus for firms that take on someone aged 18 to 24 who has been looking for work for six months.
Session: Youth Unemployment
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Many parents depend on SENDIASS services. Given the expected rise in demand for these free and impartial services, how will the Minister ensure local authorities have adequate financial and practical resources to maintain their independence and quality?
Context
Parents rely heavily on SENDIASS services, which are vital but face increasing demand.
Georgia Gould
We are continuing to fund SENDIASS, and in our consultation on SEND we included a question on how we can better support parents and on what investment we need to put in to do that, so it is an area that we are looking at.
Session: SEND Provision Finance
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What financial plan does she have for improving SEND provision? I am concerned about the £2 billion gap between government spending on SEND in 2028-29 and OBR forecasts. This could force children to fit into services that do not meet their needs.
Context
There is a significant financial gap between current SEND investment plans and future spending needs, as forecasted by the Office for Budget Responsibility.
Georgia Gould
The Government are investing in special educational needs and disabilities, as I have set out. We have set out substantial investment over the next few years. We are currently consulting on special educational needs and disabilities reform. We will set out final plans on that reform after we have carefully looked at all the considerations.
Session: SEND Provision Finance
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Will the Secretary of State rule out extending the BBC licence fee to streaming services such as Netflix?
Context
There is speculation about extending the BBC licence fee to streaming services.
Lisa Nandy
We have ruled out a levy on streamers and also ruled out direct taxation going to fund the BBC because of the need for the BBC to retain its independence. But I look forward to debating this issue with the hon. Member and for the whole House to come together.
Session: Topical Questions
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What will the Government do to reduce slave labour in supply chains and wean the UK off Chinese-made infrastructure?
Context
The Xinjiang Uyghur region of China provides a significant portion of the world's solar-grade polysilicon, with an estimated 68% of UK panels coming from China. GB Energy has committed to having a supply chain free from slave labour by spring 2025 but investigations reveal that five out of seven contracts for schools cannot guarantee freedom from forced labour.
Michael Shanks
GBE will be a leader in how we tackle modern slavery, and it has set up a function to look at sustainable supply chains and to ensure that they are free from modern slavery. The Government wants to go further in tackling forced labour where found in global supply chains.
Session: Chinese-manufactured Solar Panels
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What assessment has been made of the potential implications for his policies of the use of Chinese-manufactured solar panels by Great British Energy?
Context
Concerns about the potential implications of using Chinese-manufactured solar panels for Great British Energy policies due to risks associated with forced labour in supply chains.
Michael Shanks
Provisions under the Modern Slavery Act 2015 drive industry action via due diligence and transparency to tackle forced labour in supply chains for solar panels. All procurement conducted under Government and GBE contracts is required to meet those standards.
Session: Chinese-manufactured Solar Panels
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The Government's new steel tariff and quota regime, due to come in in a few weeks, means that many businesses face a cliff edge. One in my constituency recently got in touch to tell me that it faces either a slow death or a swift death, and that it faces calling in the administrators before Christmas. Will the Minister keep an open mind about extending the transitional period, and will he agree to meet me and a very small number of my constituents who will be affected?
Context
A steel company in the MP's constituency faces either a slow death or swift death due to impending changes in the steel tariff and quota regime, requiring urgent assistance.
Chris Bryant
Of course I am happy to meet. Maybe we should organise a meeting for several companies and several hon. Members. I am very happy to do that as soon as possible. I do not want to extend the transition period, for the simple reason that the EU, the United States and other countries are introducing very similar measures, and the danger is that we would just be dumped on. There will be a review mechanism after a year.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for her response, but I am afraid that the picture she paints is not one that pubs across my constituency will recognise. A typical pub in my constituency is paying around £2,500 more a month compared with two years ago, because of higher energy costs, employment costs and business rates. Will the Government look at a permanent cut to business rates for pubs and exempt pubs with accommodation from the overnight levy?
Context
Pubs in the Bromsgrove constituency are vital to the local economy, but they face additional costs due to higher energy prices and employment expenses.
Kate Dearden
The Minister understands rising energy prices and supply chain effects strain on sectors like pubs, acknowledges current situation causes concern, and across government, they are considering carefully this area as part of ongoing economic assessments. They want to support hospitality sector which is vital for local communities and high streets by ensuring economic stability.
Session: Pubs Bromsgrove
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What steps he is taking to support pubs in Bromsgrove constituency. A typical pub in my constituency is paying around £2,500 more a month compared with two years ago, because of higher energy costs, employment costs, and business rates. Will the Government consider a permanent cut to business rates for pubs and exempt those with accommodation from the overnight levy?
Context
Pubs in the Bromsgrove constituency are facing significant challenges, including increased costs due to rising energy prices and employment expenses.
Kate Dearden
The Minister acknowledges rising energy prices and supply chain effects strain on sectors like pubs. The current situation causes concern, and across government, they are considering carefully this area as part of ongoing economic assessments. They want to support the hospitality sector which is vital for local communities and high streets by ensuring economic stability.
Session: Pubs Bromsgrove
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I recently met Chris, the owner of Chapters Hair in Bromsgrove, who told me that current conditions are the most difficult he has faced in 25 years of trading, which he attributes directly to the decisions taken by the Chancellor. Why is it that the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Government across the board are riding roughshod over what business owners think—the people who know best how to run their businesses—and when will the Government get off their backs and get on their side?
Context
The MP met with Chris, the owner of Chapters Hair in Bromsgrove, who stated that current trading conditions are the most difficult in 25 years due to government decisions. This highlights the impact on local business owners' perceptions.
Dan Tomlinson
Under the previous Government, the business rates multiplier—the tax rate—paid by medium-sized businesses and the very largest businesses was exactly the same. We have implemented significant reforms to the way businesses rates work so that the system supports the high street, and the tax rate paid by small high street businesses will now be 33% lower than the rate paid by the largest properties, such as online giants. Of course, the revaluation since the pandemic has had an effect, and that is why we have stepped in to provide support.
Session: Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Business Rates
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of changes to business rates announced in the autumn Budget 2025 on the retail, hospitality and leisure sector.
Dan Tomlinson
The Government have introduced a support package worth £4.3 billion to protect rate payers across the country against the impact of independently set new property values, whereby properties have been valued for the first time since the pandemic. We have also introduced permanently lower multipliers for eligible retail, hospitality and leisure properties worth nearly £1 billion a year, and this will benefit more than 750,000 high street businesses.
Session: Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Business Rates
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The European Union currently allows for food production methods that are either banned or being phased out in the UK, which is undercutting British farmers. Will the Minister outline what discussions have taken place with the European Union to ensure parity of welfare standards so that British farmers are not priced out of the market?
Context
European Union allows for food production methods that are either banned or being phased out in the UK, affecting British farmers.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
The common understanding that we agreed with the EU last year allowed for particular carve-outs, which the Government are negotiating. I will say to the hon. Gentleman, though, that the sanitary and phytosanitary agreement—the food and drink agreement—will mean that we will be able to export to the EU products that we are currently unable to export, and will take away costs and fees that businesses have to pay.
Session: UK-EU Relations
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What recent discussions he has had with his EU counterparts on the future EU-UK relationship.
Context
Discussions about the future relationship between the UK and EU.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
Just this week and last, I have been across the channel to speak to EU counterparts and counterparts in member states. We are making good progress with the EU in our strategic partnership in a changing world. It is a strategic partnership that is good for bills, good for borders and good for jobs.
Session: UK-EU Relations
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My constituents demand a better service and better response times. What are the Government going to do about this? Will the Secretary of State meet me and the concerned GP who wrote to me to address this issue?
Context
A local Bromsgrove GP reported that a 10-month-old child nearly died due to ambulance delays, and another patient suffered cardiac arrest and died.
Wes Streeting
Ambulance response times are improving, but they are not good enough. We have done a lot, but there is a lot more to do.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister really think that Bromsgrove golf course, being in open countryside with more than 20,000 trees, is suitable for development? Will he rule out development on such golf courses?
Context
The question arises from concerns over a specific golf course in Bromsgrove which is located in open countryside, containing 20,000 trees. The MP seeks clarity on the suitability of this land for housing developments.
Matthew Pennycook
The hon. Member knows why I cannot speak to particular planning applications, but it is for local planning authorities to determine whether exceptional circumstances exist to justify the release of green belt and to undertake assessments on grey-belt land through plan making or specific applications.
Session: Grey-belt Land
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I declare an interest as chair of the British buses APPG. The previous Government's failure to provide any certainty on the ZEV mandate was not good for British industry or the environment, and I welcome this Government's progress. We must acknowledge that the ZEV mandate must retain a degree of flexibility, as the Secretary of State described, to enable the transition of our domestic bus manufacturing sector. Prior to the imminent publication of the 10-year bus plan, can the Minister outline what further measures the Government are considering to support the transition of our domestic bus manufacturers?
Context
The previous government's lack of certainty on the ZEV mandate was detrimental to British industry and the environment.
Heidi Alexander
I know that my hon. Friend takes an active interest in this issue, given the importance of bus manufacturing to his constituents in Falkirk. We are backing Britain's bus manufacturers with long-term certainty through the 10-year zero emission bus pipeline and the work of the bus manufacturing expert panel.
Session: Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate
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In response to my question about whether bills in April 2026 will be lower than in July 2024, the Secretary of State claimed that they would be. However, the price cap was £1,568 in July 2024 and is projected to be £1,620 in April 2026. Can you advise on how the House can seek a correction of the record?
Context
The Secretary of State previously claimed that bills in April 2026 would be lower than in July 2024, but the price cap data suggests otherwise.
Mr Speaker
You have certainly put that on the record. We are not going to continue the debate unless the Secretary of State wants to respond, which I doubt.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for his scripted answer. Digital ID is a terrible idea. If the Government are going to pursue it, what assurances can he give me, in a tiny bit of detail, about what the Government will do to ensure that people are not, through a lack of technological skills or financial exclusion, disadvantaged in accessing Government services?
Context
Millions of people in the UK are unable to access public services online or lack necessary identity credentials, a situation that the Conservative government left behind.
Josh Simons (The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
Let me be clear about the status quo that the Conservative party left behind: millions of people right now are digitally excluded from accessing public services, and millions of people lack the identity credentials that they need to access them. We will not accept that. We will make sure that post offices, libraries and a whole range of physical places in the communities where people live can be used to access this new digital credential, getting people online who were left behind by the last Government.
Session: Digital Exclusion
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The oil refining industry employs tens of thousands of people and is crucial to our energy security. It is also a key part of the ministerial brief. The sector is under immense pressure, so can the Minister tell the House when he will meet industry representatives directly?
Context
The oil refining industry employs tens of thousands of people and is crucial to energy security. The industry is under pressure.
The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)
I have met industry representatives, and when I did so they told me that it was the first time they had met anyone from the Government in 13 years. Many of the issues that are now emerging have been long in the making because of the last Government’s failure to recognise their importance. However, the hon. Gentleman is right to say that refineries are an important part of our energy mix and our economy. We will do all that we can to support them, and I continue to meet their representatives and those of Fuels Industry UK regularly.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps his Department is taking to help support the Probation Service to manage repeat offenders who cross jurisdictional boundaries to avoid supervision. Residents living in villages across north Worcestershire in my constituency of Bromsgrove are often victims of crime that originates from urban areas, including Birmingham. What message would the Minister send to my constituents who want reassurance that the Probation Service is being strengthened so that repeat offenders who evade supervision by crossing jurisdictions do not fall through the cracks as a result of the police not sharing data?
Context
Residents in north Worcestershire, including the constituency of Bromsgrove, are victims of crime originating from urban areas like Birmingham. There is a concern that repeat offenders evade supervision by crossing jurisdictions.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Jake Richards)
I am grateful for the hon. Member’s question. It is absolutely vital that, across jurisdictions and different areas, there is better information sharing from probation services and the police. As the Justice Secretary has just said, the Probation Service is in need of investment. That is why we are investing £750 million—a 45% increase—and we will continue to invest in our Probation Service to ensure that the hon. Gentleman’s constituents are reassured in the future.
Session: Managing Repeat Offenders
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I welcome the Minister to her new role. Will the Government consider introducing a policy whereby long-term empty properties brought back into use as homes will count towards a district’s housing target?
Context
The MP questioned the government's steps to bring long-term empty homes back into use, referencing a policy that could incentivize local authorities.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Samantha Dixon)
Local authorities have a number of powers to deal with empty homes. The hon. Member raises an interesting point, which I will take away and consider with officials.
Session: Long-term Empty Homes
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I welcome the Home Secretary to her position. Does she have plans to introduce a statutory cap on in-bound migration?
Context
The MP is concerned about in-bound migration and seeks clarity on the government's approach.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Shabana Mahmood)
I have one job, and it is to secure our borders. I will do whatever it takes, but what I will never do is take the approach of the previous Government, who were led by gimmicks and false promises that were never met.
Session: Topical Questions
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With increasing e-scooter usage, a small number of people are increasingly conducting antisocial behaviour while riding around on these micromobility vehicles. That is of great concern to my constituents, and I am particularly concerned that there is no minimum age requirement for the purchase of an e-scooter and no national registration scheme that could help track those using them for nefarious activities. Have the Government got any plans to introduce a national registration scheme for e-scooters?
Context
Concerns have been raised about antisocial behavior conducted by individuals on e-scooters, particularly due to the lack of minimum age requirements or a national registration scheme.
Simon Lightwood
As I mentioned earlier, the Government are determined to bring, and have every intention of bringing, about legislation on e-scooters. All that will be taken into account in the development of the policy.
Session: Topical Questions
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When is a trade deal not a trade deal? It has been nine weeks since the Prime Minister announced a deal to protect steel from US tariffs, and 10 weeks since the Secretary of State said that the India deal was ‘signed, sealed and delivered’. Will the Secretary of State publish the details of these important deals without delay before recess, or will he apologise for misleading the House?
Context
The Prime Minister announced a deal to protect steel from US tariffs, and the Secretary of State said that the India deal was ‘signed, sealed and delivered’. However, these deals have not been published or implemented yet.
The Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security (Mr Douglas Alexander)
Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I am struggling to keep up with the Conservative party’s position as to whether deals have been done. As I recollect, 34,000 workers in Jaguar Land Rover know exactly the difference that a Labour Government are making, given the challenge they would have faced with more than 25% tariffs had it not been for the work of the Prime Minister and the Business Secretary. But that is only one sector of the economy. In relation to steel and aluminium, of which the hon. Member spoke, we are continuing to work with the United States to ensure that the agreement to remove 25% tariffs on UK steel and aluminium can be implemented as soon as possible, but we are unique in the level of tariffs set compared with every other country in the world.
Session: Trade Agreements Implementation
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My Department is working closely with the Department for Education to ensure that the education system is ready for AI. I am concerned about the increase in academic dishonesty and plagiarism resulting from the use of artificial intelligence tools in schools. What steps are being taken to address this issue?
Context
The MP referenced ongoing concerns about the impact of AI tools on academic integrity and administrative burdens.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Feryal Clark)
AI has shown potential in reducing administrative burdens on teaching staff. However, evidence is still emerging regarding the benefits and risks of students using generative AI tools. We are working with the education sector to develop our understanding of how to use AI safely and effectively. The Department for Education (DFE) has issued guidance to teachers on identifying and best using AI in schools.
Session: Artificial Intelligence Schools
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Does the Minister agree that one of the strongest ways to ensure economic resilience is through supporting British supply chains via procurement policies? Can he update the House on what steps the Government are taking to bolster procurement policies so that they put British supply chains first?
Context
To bolster economic resilience, the Government are looking to support British companies in delivering goods and services.
Abena Oppong-Asare (Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
This Government are committed to working with and supporting British industries. That has been at the heart of our plan for delivery, which is why we have worked across and engaged with industries. Our industrial strategy is key to ensuring that happens.
Session: National Resilience
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So many disabled members of society are unable to demonstrate the minimum academic requirements to get on to many courses or secure employment. What steps are the Government taking to support those people so that they can demonstrate vocational and non-academic competencies and get the jobs they deserve?
Context
The question addresses the challenge many disabled people face in demonstrating minimum academic requirements, leading to barriers in securing employment or accessing courses.
Alison McGovern (The Minister for Employment)
That is exactly the point of our changes to jobcentres and the £1 billion of investment in employment support—so that we can understand the pathways to work for people who have skills and talents but perhaps not quite the right qualifications.
Session: Topical Questions
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There are many fantastic organisations across Bromsgrove and the villages, including Legacy Martial Arts, the Basement Project and the Scouts, which do fantastic work to support young people. The work done by the committed individuals behind those organisations bolsters the confidence, skills and mental health of young people. Will the Minister join me in thanking those organisations for the work they do across my constituency? Will she outline what support is available to those organisations to support them in the valuable work they do?
Context
The MP references several organizations in Bromsgrove that support young people, including Legacy Martial Arts, the Basement Project and the Scouts.
Alison McGovern
I absolutely join the hon. Member in thanking all the organisations he mentions. If he could link them up with his local jobcentre, we can help make the connection between young people who have suffered disadvantage and that really positive community support that is available for them in his constituency.
Session: Topical Questions
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There are over 70 pubs across Bromsgrove and the villages. One of them—the Queens Head—faces a staggering £42,000 annual increase in the cost of business rates and national insurance contributions as a result of choices made by this Government. That is on top of increasing concerns around a banter ban. Will the Minister confirm that nobody will be ejected from a pub or hospitality venue for sharing a joke, and will he outline what steps he is taking to support pubs, rather than putting them out of business?
Context
The question addresses concerns about the impact of business rates and national insurance contributions on local pubs in Bromsgrove.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
I note in passing that 10,000 pubs closed their doors under the Conservative Government, so I do not think the pub industry is looking to the hon. Gentleman’s party for guidance going forward. On the specifics he asked about, he will be aware of our plan for business rates reform, which will help and make a significant difference to many pubs. On the so-called “banter ban”, I gently suggest that he should not believe everything that he reads in the newspapers.
Session: High Street Businesses
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What steps he is taking to protect undersea infrastructure. Will he prioritise development of underwater capabilities, such as uncrewed systems, including under pillar 2 of AUKUS, and will he increase research and development investment into systems that could protect critical undersea infrastructure?
Context
The question addresses the growing threat to undersea infrastructure from malicious actors, particularly highlighted by the activities of the Russian spy ship Yantar.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
We are seeing more risks posed to our critical underwater infrastructure by players who wish harm to our national security. We already have brilliant capability in RFA Proteus, which is able to support our infrastructure and that of our allies. When the strategic defence review is published in the spring, there will be more developments in that direction.
Session: Undersea Infrastructure
View All Questions -->
Yesterday, Bromsgrove received the devastating news that it is about to lose both its Lloyds and Halifax bank branches in the town centre. Those banks are a lifeline to many small businesses, particularly those run by independent small entrepreneurs, as well as many residents who use their banking facilities on probably a weekly or daily basis. Does the Minister agree that banking hubs can be part of an ongoing solution to retain banking services in our towns? Will he support my campaign for a banking hub in Bromsgrove? Will he meet me to make that a reality?
Context
The Bromsgrove town centre is set to lose both its Lloyds and Halifax bank branches, a decision that could have significant impacts on local small businesses.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
I recognise that there will be a lot of concern in the hon. Member’s constituency following that news yesterday. I agree that banking hubs can make a significant difference, which is why we have been quick to roll out more than 100 of them. Plans for another 76 have already been developed and we are committed to rolling out 350 in total. In the spirit of one Thomas trying to help another Thomas, I am happy to meet him.
Session: Support for High Street Businesses
View All Questions -->
Constituents across Bromsgrove and the villages are sick and tired of violent criminality and lawlessness creeping over the border from Birmingham into our constituency. In the past year, Romsley Co-op and Wythall post office at Drakes Cross—both of which are on the northern fringe of my constituency—have been raided, and it is hard to believe that proximity to Birmingham is not a factor in that. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to ensure that prosecutions are pursued and custodial sentences are given in the first instance, to crack down on crime and make our area safe again?
Context
The question addresses constituents' concerns about rising crime and lawlessness in the Bromsgrove area, with specific examples provided.
Shabana Mahmood (The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice)
Through our landmark review of sentencing, this Government are ensuring that sentencing is fit for purpose. That will ultimately put us in a position where we can crack down on reoffending, thereby cutting crime and the number of victims. I am not sure whether the hon. Gentleman is proposing carving out his part of the world from any other part of the country, but his argument about boundaries can apply to any part of the UK. That is why we need a functioning justice system for the whole of England and Wales, and that is what this Government are going to deliver.
Session: Crown Court Backlog
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
North Sea Oil and Gas
24 June 2026
Responding: Michael Shanks
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the UK's reliance on imported energy and its impact on domestic production, jobs, and economic stability. The Energy Secretary's targets are pushing the UK into a scenario where demand exceeds supply capabilities, which is reckless and could lead to higher energy bills for households and businesses. According to recent polls, 68% of those supporting emission reduction believe reducing energy bills should be the first priority, while another poll found that 71% of supporters do so on condition that it does not increase their energy bills. The hon. Member for Glasgow North East is concerned about the lack of action in providing a just transition for workers and communities affected by job losses in the oil and gas industry. He mentions that Scottish Labour's policies have left voters worried, with the party finishing fourth in the Aberdeen South by-election despite having an excellent candidate. The constituency needs reindustrialisation to prevent skills and talent exodus."]
Specific Asks
['The Government must support domestic production in North sea oil and gas to secure jobs and economic stability. They need to address the concerns of workers at risk of losing their jobs due to the ban on new licences and provide detailed information on the quality of clean energy jobs compared to those in the oil and gas industry. The Member asks when new industries will come to Grangemouth and when his constituents will see the change they desperately need. He also questions if the Government will take some form of ownership of these new industries, which are needed for decades to come.']
Bromsgrove: Local Government
07 January 2026
Responding: Alison McGovern
Main Concerns
['The reorganisation of Worcestershire councils will be the largest local government reshuffle in more than 50 years. The current proposal risks pushing parts of the county, particularly rural areas like Bromsgrove, into becoming extensions of urban cities, potentially sacrificing the unique rural character and identity that defines these communities.']
Specific Asks
['The creation of a single unitary authority is proposed as the best option to protect Worcestershire’s integrity, strengthen governance, and secure long-term prosperity. This would ensure local democracy remains intact and decisions continue to reflect the needs and values of rural constituents.']
Non-surgical Aesthetic and Cosmetic Treatments
11 September 2025
Responding: Karin Smyth
Main Concerns
['In 2023 alone, around 7.7 million people in the UK underwent cosmetic and aesthetic treatments, leading to a public health crisis due to lack of regulation. Sixty-one percent of adults and 66% of children reported negative body image issues, with 80% experiencing mental health harm from such concerns. An estimated 1.25 million people live with eating disorders, hospital admissions for which rose by 84% between 2015 and 2021.']
Specific Asks
["Proposes stricter regulations on advertising images in cosmetic industry and requiring all images and videos used to display if digitally altered or enhanced. Also suggests expanding the Secretary of State's powers to introduce regulations on operations, making 'surgeon' a protected title."]
Listed Places of Worship Scheme
22 January 2025
Responding: Chris Bryant
Main Concerns
['There are about 20,000 listed cathedrals, churches and chapels in the UK with a backlog of repairs to parish churches estimated at more than £1 billion. The listed places of worship grant scheme is due to close on 31 March 2025 and there are currently no extensions or alternatives known about.']
Specific Asks
['The current Government should recognise the value of the scheme that was introduced in 2001 by the Labour Government, and extend it given its economic and social benefits. The scheme should be extended to safeguard the future of some of our most important local heritage and ensure church buildings remain structurally safe.']
Independent Schools: VAT and Business Rates Exemptions
08 October 2024
Responding: James Murray
Main Concerns
["Mr. Bradley Thomas is concerned about Labour's plan to remove VAT and business rate exemptions for independent schools, stating that the policy will not achieve its aims and could displace children mid-education. He cites statistics such as 71% of parents feeling influenced by rising school fees and 26% considering withdrawal from independent schooling due to potential VAT introduction. Thomas also highlights economic benefits like supporting 328,000 jobs and saving £4.5 billion for the state through choice-based education funding. The policy will remove the ability of people to send their children to local primary schools as places get filled by those who currently can just about afford private schools. The continuity of education allowance for military families may no longer house all 4,200 users, and arts schools being exempt could withdraw opportunities from the arts sector. The financial planning of international pupils will be impacted, and there is an issue with council budgets if children are taken out of the private sector."]
Specific Asks
['Thomas requests that the Government abandon or delay implementation of the policy until September, perform a full consultation and impact assessment, protect very small schools from VAT changes, exempt service families on continuity of education allowance from VAT, and provide support for students transitioning between independent and state sectors without disruption to their education. The Minister should confirm whether low-income families and staff members in receipt of bursaries or discounts would be liable for VAT on school fees. He should also consider exemptions for arts schools, mitigate financial planning issues for international pupils, ensure legal exemptions for SEND provision, address impacts on council budgets, and provide funding for transport and private placements.']
Air Traffic Control Disruption
10 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Retirement Property Management Companies: Regulation
08 September 2026
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
Simon Hoare highlighted the issues faced by residents of retirement properties managed by Cognatum Estates, which operates in North Dorset. He detailed numerous complaints about transparency, accounta...
Local Government Reorganisation
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Economic Growth
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Building Homes and Renewing Communities
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Opposition Day
07 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Accommodation
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
G7 Summit
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Social Media Ban for Under-16s
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Milburn Review: Interim Report
02 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Bromsgrove District Housing Targets
14 January 2026
The petition of Bromsgrove District residents expresses concern over the 82% increase in housing targets for rural Bromsgrove while neighbouring urban Birmingham’s targets are reduced by 31%. They arg...
View Full Petition -->
Bromsgrove District housing targets
25 November 2025
The petition addresses the concern that the Government’s housing targets are imposing an excessive burden on rural Bromsgrove District, with a 85% increase in housing targets despite the area being pr...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
85.7%
84 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
47
48.0% of votes
No Votes
37
37.8% of votes
Abstentions
14
14.3% 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
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
3
PMQs Asked
49
Ministerial Questions Asked
97
House of Commons Debates Involved
5
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-18% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+266% above average
This MP:
49
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+99% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1896% above average
This MP:
97
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-18% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+24% above average
This MP:
85.7
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Bradley Thomas's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.