Catherine Atkinson
MP for Derby North
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Team Derby is our partnership ensuring that the billions of pounds in investment that this Labour Government are bringing into Derby benefits the people of Derby in regeneration, skills and good jobs. The Government's record investment in Rolls-Royce submarines means hundreds of new jobs and apprenticeships in Derby. Will the Prime Minister firmly reject the Green party's defence policy that would decimate jobs in Derby and leave the United Kingdom unprotected?
Context
The Government's investment in Rolls-Royce submarines is creating hundreds of new jobs and apprenticeships in Derby. The Green Party's defence policy is opposed to this investment, which could decimate jobs in Derby and leave the United Kingdom unprotected.
Keir Starmer
Derby is part of our industrial heritage and has a bright future. Initiatives such as Team Derby are so important to strengthen key sectors like defence, creating jobs and growth. Our £9 billion deal with Rolls-Royce to boost our fleet of nuclear submarines is testament to that, creating more than 1,000 jobs and safeguarding 4,000 more. Those who oppose all that must answer to the working people whom they claim to represent.
Assessment
Rejection of the Green Party's defence policy
Session: PMQs
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This time last year, train manufacturing at Alstom in Derby was grinding to a halt. On a single day, workers with a combined welding experience of nearly 1,000 years walked out of its doors, but the whole city came together with crucial backing from this Prime Minister. What a difference a year makes, with Alstom saved and set to host the greatest gathering to celebrate 200 years of rail and our railways coming back into public ownership, with the headquarters of Great British Railways in Derby. Does the Prime Minister agree that, with Labour, we are back on track?
Context
Alstom train manufacturing in Derby faced significant challenges last year, including a mass walkout by experienced workers. The city rallied with support from the government.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
My hon. Friend is a fantastic champion for Derby. She is right: whether it is the workforce I met at Alstom or the workers at Hitachi in County Durham, we will support our rail industry, providing certainty that delivers jobs, investment and security. I met those workforces. I know how worried they were a year ago, as she rightly says, when the previous Government were in charge. I am really proud that Derby will be the home of Great British Railways, because we are bringing railways back into public ownership to provide better services for passengers, cutting delays and cancellations and boosting growth across the country.
Session: PMQs
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With empty shops and quiet high streets across the country, will the Prime Minister commit to supporting and protecting small businesses that are crucial to our high streets?
Context
Derby city centre is revitalising with new venues and business initiatives, but high streets face challenges. The Budget allocates money to support local businesses.
Keir Starmer
We are supporting small businesses and rebuilding the country. We oppose Conservative scaremongering about support for local businesses.
Assessment
Specific commitment to protecting and supporting small businesses was not provided
Session: PMQs
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My constituent Rebecca and her now 13-year-old have not received child maintenance for over a decade. Arrears exceed £10,0 £10,000, but because her son's father has moved in and out of employment he has evaded enforcement, even where deduction from earnings orders have been made. I welcome that child maintenance systems are being reformed, but will the Minister tell us what action will be taken so that Rebecca and parents in similar situations across the country get the support they are entitled to?
Context
Rebecca, a constituent of Catherine Atkinson, has not received child maintenance for over a decade with arrears exceeding £10,000. Enforcement difficulties arise due to the non-resident parent's fluctuating employment status.
Andrew Western
I thank my hon. Friend for her question. I know that she has been representing Rebecca for some time in seeking a resolution to that case. We seek to introduce a range of changes when parliamentary time allows, but clearly there is further work to do to ensure that enforcement processes are also strengthened. Baroness Sherlock would be happy to discuss that with my hon. Friend if she feels that would be appropriate, and I would be happy to facilitate such a meeting.
Session: Child Maintenance Service
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In Derby we have many businesses, including small and medium-sized businesses, that are investing in people through apprenticeships or by enabling people to turn their lives around after prison through work. How will reforms to public procurement better recognise the social value that businesses provide when making procurement decisions?
Context
Local businesses in Derby are investing in apprenticeships and employment for ex-prisoners, raising questions about how social value is considered in procurement.
Chris Ward
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to raise that. Social value should be integral to the system, but the current system has become too tick-boxy and does not deliver what it needs to for local communities like those in Derby. We are working with businesses, unions and charities on a new definition. I am happy to speak with her further about it, but I think it is an important part of improving the system.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am concerned about the terrible incident in Derby where a car injured several people. Will you join me in thanking the emergency services and public first aid providers? Can we meet to discuss strengthening local preparedness and risk management?
Context
A car was driven into crowds in Derby, resulting in several serious injuries. This incident has raised concerns about emergency services' preparedness.
Samantha Dixon
I am sorry about the incident. I will meet my hon. Friend and work with her and others across the country on resilience and recovery.
Session: Topical Questions
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How are the Government ensuring that local voices are heard and acted on?
Context
The question follows up on the need for community involvement and decision-making regarding £20 million of Pride in Place funding for Chaddesden West within Derby North constituency. The MP seeks to understand how government support ensures these local voices influence funding distribution.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
Local people should be leading neighbourhood boards and making decisions regarding priorities identified within Chaddesden West, with support through toolkits and £150,000 funding to facilitate community engagement and drive change.
Session: Pride in Place Funding Derby North
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What mechanisms has his Department put in place to ensure that communities are consulted on the use of Pride in Place funding in Derby North constituency?
Context
The question arises from the need to ensure local communities have a voice in how £20 million of Pride in Place funding is allocated for Derby North constituency. The MP seeks clarity on mechanisms to engage and consult with these communities.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
Communities should be led by a neighbourhood board with an independent chair from the local area, which will develop plans to invest £20 million over the next decade. Each place is expected to engage widely and receive £150,000 in support for community engagement activities.
Session: Pride in Place Funding Derby North
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Last year, a free local pension advice service was launched, delivering over half a million pounds to eligible pensioners. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to ensure people know about support reducing household bills?
Context
A local pension advice service has delivered significant benefits to eligible pensioners in Derby, highlighting the need for similar nationwide initiatives.
Ed Miliband
My hon. Friend highlights an important issue; as part of our warm homes plan, we are setting up a warm homes agency to provide information and advice on cutting bills and upgrading homes, making the biggest public investment ever seen in this country.
Session: Household Energy Bills
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Will the Minister provide an update on establishing regional river walks along the River Derwent?
Context
The River Derwent, which powers the early industrial revolution, flows through Derby and up to the Peak district. Local councils, MPs, East Midlands Mayor, and various organizations agree that turning existing rambling paths into a continuous river walk will benefit health, economy, and wellbeing.
Mary Creagh
We said in our manifesto that we would deliver nine new national river walks—one in every region—to bring nature closer to people and make it accessible to everyone. The first walk, in the north-west, will be completed in the spring, and there will be a competition later this year for the next locations.
Session: Topical Questions
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How can we ensure that children and young people's voices are at the heart of this national conversation on protecting them online, in addition to listening to organisations representing them?
Context
Parents in Derby want to know that their children are properly protected from harmful content and addictive design features when using the internet.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Kanishka Narayan)
I first pay tribute to my hon. Friend for the depth and breadth of her advocacy for the people of Derby. I can confirm that I would be delighted to ensure that we continue the conversation with young people. I was at a school last week, and I will be in a school this week. I commit to the House that the Secretary of State and I will continue to put young people at the heart of all our decisions.
Session: Protecting Young People Online
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Hundreds of new homes are being built at the Friar Gate goods yard, originally a 19th-century rail depot. This development is near the city centre, but other housing that was built further out under the Conservatives went up with inadequate transport infrastructure and little thought for public transport. What is being done to ensure that new homes have the transport infrastructure that they need?
Context
New residential areas are being developed without adequate transportation, causing issues for residents and future development.
Matthew Pennycook
I am more than happy to sit down with my hon. Friend and discuss the matter in more detail.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating all those involved in delivering that fantastic project, and will he find time for a debate on how we can continue to improve mental health provision across the country, particularly for adults requiring acute care?
Context
The opening of new mental health facilities at Kingsway hospital in Derby marks a step forward in care for local people.
Alan Campbell
I join her in congratulating everyone involved in the project that she mentions. I am sure that in future there will be a debate in which she can discuss the matter further.
Session: Business of the House
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In Derby, we have fantastic community groups who take pride in keeping our city clean. But this great work is too often undermined by those who dump waste illegally on our streets, private land and green spaces. Will the Minister outline what the Government are doing to tackle waste crime so that my constituents can continue to enjoy clean neighbourhoods?
Context
Community groups in Derby work to keep the city clean, but their efforts are often undermined by illegal dumping of waste.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Mary Creagh)
My hon. Friend’s constituents are commended for their important work, supported by the Government who help councils seize vehicles of fly-tippers, force them to clean up their own mess, and introduce new five-year prison sentences for those transporting waste illegally.
Session: Littering
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The Probation Service plays a vital role in our justice system, and is integral to ensuring that community sentences are effective and that our communities are kept safe. The Conservatives’ part-privatisation reforms were disastrous for our Probation Service. What are this Government doing to ensure that our probation officers are properly supported in carrying out their vital jobs?
Context
The previous government's part-privatisation reforms were criticised as disastrous for the Probation Service. The current government is focusing on rebuilding and supporting probation officers with a transformation fund.
David Lammy
My hon. Friend is exactly right. The decisions that were made under the last Government by the then Justice Secretary, Chris Grayling, were catastrophic for a wonderful service, and we are now in the business of rebuilding the Probation Service. I have been very pleased to visit probation workers in Chatham, Kent, and in Islington recently, and one of the things they raise is their caseload. In Kent they were trialling our transformation fund money, which is introducing artificial intelligence that can help them do what they want to do: provide face-to-face contact and reduce their caseloads. I want to see that rolled out across the country.
Session: Probation Service
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I was delighted to welcome the Education Secretary to St Mary’s Catholic primary school in Derby, the greenest school in the country, where every classroom looks out on to green spaces. We are also lucky to have the stunning River Derwent flowing through our city, which children can paddle, walk and row along. What assessments have been made of the benefits to children of having access to nature as part of their education?
Context
The greenest school in Derby was visited by the Education Secretary, highlighting the importance of connecting children with nature.
The Minister for School Standards (Georgia Gould)
That sounds idyllic, and I hope I can follow the Secretary of State on a visit to that beautiful school. Improving connection to nature helps to address key priorities in the opportunity mission, and we are supporting the University of Oxford’s assessment of the impact of nature-based programmes in secondary schools.
Session: Topical Questions
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The oldest surviving locomotive roundhouse in Britain is in Derby, which now serves as a cutting-edge learning environment for construction skills. However, the site is at full capacity with 50% more space needed to increase its capacity in brickwork, carpentry, and joinery to address the shortage of skilled workers.
Context
Derby's oldest surviving locomotive roundhouse is now a cutting-edge learning environment for local young people, but the site is over capacity and requires expansion.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Stephen Morgan)
Applications to become construction technical excellence colleges closed on 4 July. We look forward to informing successful candidates in due course. In addition, £375 million of capital investment will be invested between 2026 and 2030 to support post-16 capacity to accommodate the additional learners entering the system.
Session: Further Education Estate
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We are seeing massive investment in the regeneration of Derby city centre, including the opening of a new entertainment venue and the reopening of our market hall, which is bursting with small and independent businesses. Regeneration also means ensuring that our city feels safe, welcoming and inclusive. Will the Minister tell us how the Department is working with the Home Office to ensure that our cities and towns are thriving and safe?
Context
There is significant investment in Derby city centre, including new venues and the reopening of a market hall.
Alex Norris
My hon. Friend is tempting a Member of Parliament for Nottingham to say something nice about Derby, which is slightly challenging for my prospects when I go home on Thursday. I do recognise the characterisation of the exciting plans ahead for Derby, and I share exactly her point on policing. We can have the most vibrant community possible, but people will not participate unless they feel safe. We are talking with the Home Office, and I would tell my hon. Friend to watch this space.
Session: Topical Questions
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Derbyshire Victim Services does really important work supporting victims, including those who have experienced sexual assault and domestic violence, but given the court backlog inherited from the Conservative Government, the service has told me that many of the victims are in need of support for longer, with many having complex needs that public services can struggle to meet. What steps is the Department taking to help support services to provide support to victims with complex needs that are exacerbated when justice is delayed?
Context
Victim Services in Derbyshire reports that many victims are needing longer-term support due to the backlog inherited from the Conservative Government.
Alex Davies-Jones
I place on record my thanks to all the brilliant victim support services that do tremendous work in incredibly difficult circumstances to ensure that victims get the support they need to stay engaged with the criminal justice system. We have protected dedicated Ministry of Justice spending on victims of violence against women and girls by maintaining the 2024-25 funding levels, ringfenced sexual violence and domestic abuse support for this year, and commissioned a 24/7 rape and sexual abuse support line, providing victims and survivors with access to vital help and information whenever they need it. We are carefully considering how best to allocate the current budget from the spending review to look specifically at VAWG alongside other departmental priorities.
Session: Topical Questions
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I met taxi drivers in Derby, at a meeting organised by the GMB, who are proud of the work they do. They want high standards across the board; what actions is the Minister taking to review taxi licensing, so that everyone can have confidence that the taxi and private hire industry is reliable, sustainable, and safe for passengers and the drivers themselves?
Context
The taxi drivers in Derby are concerned about the lack of high standards across the board, which affects passenger safety.
Heidi Alexander
I assure my hon. Friend that we are taking this issue very seriously. We are reviewing licensing authorities’ compliance with existing guidance, and we will hold those who do not follow that guidance to account. We will go further following the publication of Baroness Casey’s review, and we have committed to taking legislative action to close the loopholes in the current licensing regime to achieve higher standards of safety across the board.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for his time discussing Saint Benedict's need for a rebuild for sustainability, safety and security. Will he visit both schools to see what has been achieved at St Mary’s and the opportunity for more progress at Saint Benedict?
Context
Saint Benedict school needs rebuilding to become more sustainable, safe and secure. The neighbouring St Mary’s primary is recognised as the greenest in the UK.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Stephen Morgan)
I was very pleased to meet my hon. Friend to discuss Saint Benedict, which will benefit from transformed buildings through the school rebuilding programme. This Government have committed to continue and expand that programme to improve the school estate and give children the best start in life.
Session: School Estate
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I met Major Eales and the Derby and Derbyshire Ex-Services Association, who do so much with fellow veterans at events all year round. Following the launch of Operation Valour, will the Minister join me in paying tribute to the work that it and other associations do and tell us what is being done to encourage and recognise volunteers who support our veterans?
Context
Operation Valour was launched to provide long-term, sustainable funding for veteran support services.
Luke Pollard (The Minister for the Armed Forces)
I am delighted to pay tribute to Major Eales and so many other volunteers who are working to support our veterans. Valour marks a departure from the PR-focused postcode lottery diet of short-term funding for headlines that we were fed by the last Tory Government.
Session: Topical Questions
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When I spoke at the Make UK Defence summit in Derby, I met with lots of small and medium-sized businesses in the sector. The issues that they raised with me were echoed during my visit last week to a local composites manufacturer, Pentaxia, including accessing finance to grow and complicated defence procurement processes. What is the Defence Secretary doing to engage with small and medium-sized companies to ensure that they can get a fair crack at Government defence contracts?
Context
The MP spoke at the Make UK Defence summit in Derby, meeting with local defence SMEs. She highlighted issues such as accessing finance to grow and complicated defence procurement processes.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
My hon. Friend knows better than most the challenge for small firms entering into the supply chain in defence, and she does more than most to champion their case. We want defence to do business differently, and making it easier for small firms and newer entrants to start doing their business with defence a big part of that. That is why we have announced a new SME support centre—a new front door for small firms that can then become part of the defence supply chain, unlocking new jobs and putting more money in the pockets of workers.
Session: Defence Procurement SMEs
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What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help ensure that workers have necessary skills for the rail sector. Derby is the centre of the largest rail cluster in Europe—an east midlands cluster employing 45,000 people. There is an incredible range of roles in the sector, from engineering to driving, digital to welding, advanced manufacturing to customer services, and many more. However, with a third of workers in the rail sector aged 50 or over, it faces a significant shortage of rail skills in the future.
Context
Derby is home to the largest rail cluster in Europe, employing 45,000 people across various roles. A third of workers are aged 50 or over, leading to a significant shortage of rail skills.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
Developing an industry workforce plan will be a key priority for Great British Railways, and I am confident that we will be making the most of the expertise that already exists in places such as Derby. The fact that Derby will soon become the new national headquarters of GBR will mean more high-skilled jobs for a city that is already brimming with rail industry talent.
Session: Rail Sector Skills
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Last week, this Labour Government announced the freezing of prescription charges, putting pounds back in the pockets of people in Derby. I have visited pharmacies, including the Littleover pharmacy, which provide essential care and support for their communities. The Conservatives underfunded pharmacies and more than 750 closed across England between 2021 and 2024. What is the Minister doing to support community pharmacies so that we do not lose these vital local services?
Context
The question mentions the Labour Government's recent announcement of freezing prescription charges, and highlights that under Conservative rule, more than 750 pharmacies closed between 2021 and 2024.
Stephen Kinnock
After years of neglect, this Government have agreed with the sector a record uplift to £3.1 billion for 2025-26 for this vitally important front door to our NHS. We are also supporting pharmacies to operate more efficiently, including enabling hub and spoke dispensing between all pharmacies later this year. I am pleased to say that the legislation for that has been laid. What a contrast that is with the previous 14 years.
Session: Topical Questions
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The defence sector is a vital part of our local economy in Derby, particularly with the landmark £9 billion deal struck with Rolls-Royce, which is supporting the Royal Navy’s submarines and providing a major jobs boost. Does the Chancellor agree that national security goes hand in hand with economic security and, in turn, financial security for households?
Context
The UK defence sector is a crucial part of the local economy in Derby. A £9 billion deal was struck with Rolls-Royce to support Royal Navy submarines.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
The first duty of any Government is to keep the nation safe. That is why we are increasing defence spending as a share of GDP to 2.5%—the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the cold war. Derby has a vital role to play within the UK’s defence sector, particularly in nuclear engineering and aerospace, as demonstrated by the landmark £9 billion deal with Rolls-Royce, which will create up to 1,000 jobs in the city and protect thousands more.
Session: Topical Questions
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I visited Richard, a veteran, in his home, provided by the Derventio Housing Trust. The trust, based in Derby, offers homes for people without them, including those who have served in our armed forces. Volunteers from Derventio recently renovated a house in the city specifically for veterans. Does the Minister agree that such support is vital, and will he tell us what the Government are doing to help with the provision of housing, care and support for our veterans in need?
Context
The MP visited a veteran named Richard, who lives in a home provided by the Derventio Housing Trust. The trust offers homes for people without them, including those who have served in the armed forces.
The Minister for Veterans and People (Al Carns)
I congratulate the individuals in that trust on supporting the veterans in my hon. Friend’s constituency. I have visited many different parts of the UK and observed the phenomenal volunteer support that veterans often have to rely on. We want to establish a structure that will focus that support and also direct veterans to the help that they need more quickly and effectively, and we will unveil our plans in due course.
Session: Support for Veterans
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In Mickleover, under the last Government, residents were repeatedly promised a new GP surgery when new homes were built but this promise was not fulfilled. What can the current Government do to ensure that residents have access to a GP?
Context
Under the previous government, residents of Mickleover were promised a new GP surgery multiple times but it never materialized after new housing was built.
Angela Rayner
I totally sympathise; our Government are committed through the revised national planning policy framework, ensuring that infrastructure including GP surgeries is available when new housing is built.
Session: New Housing Access to Health Services
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Community energy projects can help us achieve clean energy by 2030. Darley Abbey Community Energy is surging ahead with plans for a 100 kW Archimedes screw on the River Derwent—the same river that powered the world’s first factory 200 years ago. The project could generate enough hydroelectricity to power all the businesses at Darley Abbey Mills, but there are hurdles in place, including planning permission, insurance costs and the need for up-front capital. What can the Government do to support local renewable community projects such as these to succeed?
Context
Community energy projects like Darley Abbey Community Energy’s Archimedes screw hydroelectric project face hurdles such as planning permission, insurance costs, and capital requirements.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
My hon. Friend makes a fantastically important point, which is that we often think about planning reform as being about the large-scale projects, but it is also about unblocking the smaller-scale projects. Having a national energy policy statement that includes 2030, working with local authorities and making sure there are enough planners to make the decisions—all those things can all make a difference. I congratulate my hon. Friend on her advocacy for this work, and I congratulate the local community on this project.
Session: Clean Power by 2030
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Business confidence increases when businesses know they have the skilled workforce needed. What cross-departmental discussions have Ministers had about helping businesses of all sizes provide opportunities for skill development?
Context
Rolls-Royce has a nuclear skills academy providing talent for its workforce, highlighting the need for businesses to have skilled workers to grow.
Gareth Thomas
Discussions with the Minister for Skills aim to reform the growth and skills levy, making it easier for businesses like Rolls-Royce to recruit apprentices and find the talent they need. The nuclear skills academy at Rolls-Royce is a positive example of such initiatives.
Session: Business Confidence
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Last week I met a young dad at Derby City Mission who had been sleeping rough until he used its Safe Space night shelter. He was then able to move into one of its bedrooms, and he had just been informed that there was a home for him to move into: another step towards having somewhere his son can visit him next Christmas. Will the Minister consider whether that stepped model could be used to help more rough sleepers become ready for permanent accommodation?
Context
A young dad at Derby City Mission who was sleeping rough and had access to Safe Space night shelter moved into a bedroom, then informed that there is a home available.
Rushanara Ali
I thank my hon. Friend for sharing that excellent example of the vital work of Derby City Mission. I am pleased that it received £272,000 of Government funding through the night shelter transformation fund, to help people off the streets and into their own accommodation. The Government’s investment of nearly a billion pounds will allow partners to develop vital services for those in need, and we will draw on those lessons.
Session: Topical Questions
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How will the youth guarantee help the Government join up with, enhance and champion local programmes like that?
Context
A local YMCA programme in Derby has a high success rate in supporting homeless young people into employment. The MP seeks information on how the youth guarantee will support such local initiatives.
Liz Kendall
That sounds like a fantastic programme by the YMCA in my hon. Friend's constituency. That is precisely why we need to join up with what local colleges are doing, with the support provided by local councils and with supported employment programmes run by the NHS.
Session: Youth Guarantee
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of the youth guarantee on young people in Derby North constituency?
Context
The question follows the announcement of a new youth guarantee to ensure young people are either employed or learning. There is concern about its effectiveness in Derby North, where many young people face challenges.
Liz Kendall
Our new youth guarantee will ensure that every young person is earning or learning, tackling the scandal that we inherited of almost 1 million young people not in education, employment or training. Young people in Harlow, Derby North and across the country deserve the opportunity to work, get skills and build a better life, and that is what this Labour Government will deliver.
Session: Youth Guarantee
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Does the Minister agree that nuclear will play a central role in our clean power mission, given Rolls-Royce's leadership in small modular reactors? When can we expect to see more details on this opportunity?
Context
Rolls-Royce's research and development of small modular reactors is highlighted as a key player for energy security, green jobs, and clean power generation. The question asks about the timing of the decision on Great British Nuclear's SMR competition.
Michael Shanks
I agree with my hon. Friend that nuclear will play a central role in our clean power mission, and will continue to be a critical part of our energy mix as we progress towards 2030 and far beyond. Great British Nuclear is continuing to drive forward the competition on small modular reactors, with bids currently being evaluated by the Department.
Session: Clean Energy by 2030
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Does the Minister agree that GP capacity must be a priority?
Context
Residents of Mickleover queue from 7 am for GP appointments, and seven in ten people find it very difficult to book.
Stephen Kinnock
We are absolutely committed to the challenge of cutting red tape and reducing the administrative burden for staff to help patients get the care that they need. An important element of our plan will be streamlining access to registration in order to move it online, and we are working at pace to make online registration available in all practices.
Session: Access to Primary Care
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The full electrification would cut 42,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and retain key skills in rail electrification. With current work nearing completion, will the Minister provide further updates on extending this project?
Context
Progress on electrifying the midland main line is being discussed as it could significantly reduce railway operating costs and decrease carbon emissions.
Lilian Greenwood
I commend my hon. Friend's support and assure her that delivering greener transport is a priority. The extension from Wigston to Nottingham, and via Derby to Sheffield, is planned for the early 2030s, subject to business case approvals.
Session: Midland Main Line Electrification
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What recent progress has been made on the electrification of the midland main line. The full electrification would cut 42,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and retain key skills in rail electrification. With current work nearing completion, will the Minister provide further updates on extending this project?
Context
Progress on electrifying the midland main line has been under scrutiny as it could significantly reduce railway operating costs and decrease carbon emissions.
Lilian Greenwood
Electrification is progressing with new overhead lines from Kettering to Wigston, enabling electric trains by 2025. The extension to Nottingham and Sheffield via Derby is planned for the early 2030s, pending business case approvals.
Session: Midland Main Line Electrification
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There were nearly 400 offences of violence against women and girls in Derby in 2022-23—shamefully, a fifth of all crimes in the city. I welcome the £83,000 for closed circuit television that will be put into operation by our new Derbyshire police and crime commissioner, but what further support can this Government provide so that women feel safe, and are safe, in our city centres?
Context
Violence against women and girls is a serious issue, with nearly 400 offences reported in Derby in the past year.
Yvette Cooper
I agree on the importance of that. As well as doing work specifically to target violence against women and girls, this Government are determined to increase neighbourhood policing, to get police back on the streets to make sure that people feel safe. We have lost around 10,000 neighbourhood police officers and police community support officers in the past eight years. We need to turn that around so that everyone can feel safe on our streets.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
City and Town Centres: Regeneration — [Martin Vickers in the Chair]
16 October 2024
Responding: Alex Norris
Main Concerns
['Catherine Atkinson expressed concern about the current state of city and town centres, highlighting issues such as empty shops, low footfall on most days except for special occasions like Remembrance Sunday, crime, and antisocial behaviour. She noted that seven in ten people judge the vitality of an area based solely on its high street. In Derby, over 80 shops are currently up for sale or to let, representing a 60% increase from two years prior.']
Specific Asks
['Atkinson called for a specific Government strategy on vacant shops and cross-Government co-ordination of efforts to regenerate city and town centres. She also requested updates on the implementation of high street rental auctions and community right to buy, as well as assurances that auctions would include protections for vacant pubs.']
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
14 July 2026
Bill Debate
Led by this MP
Early Release of Prisoners
07 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Calls on the Government to exempt from automatic early release under the Sentencing Act 2026 offenders who have been convicted of sexual offences against adults or children, including rape and groomin...
Middle East: Economic Update
21 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme
16 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Knife Crime
14 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
19 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate highlights the inextricable link between climate change action and public priorities such as living standards, economic growth, and public services. The speaker emphasises that the UK is fa...
Youth Unemployment
17 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Department for Business and Trade
04 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Byrne opens the debate by highlighting significant increases in the Department for Business and Trade's supplementary estimates, questioning the justification for these increases and the priorities of...
Spring Forecast
03 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Business Rates 2026-01-27
27 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government is taking steps to protect high street businesses from upward-only rent review clauses, introducing a strong new community right to buy to safeguard valued community assets. They are al...
Attendance
69.9%
58 of 83 votes
Aye Votes
20
24.1% of votes
No Votes
38
45.8% of votes
Abstentions
25
30.1% of votes
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
3
PMQs Asked
35
Ministerial Questions Asked
74
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
83
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1366 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-19% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+156% above average
This MP:
35
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1429% above average
This MP:
74
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+1% above average
This MP:
69.9
Average:
69.5
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 Catherine Atkinson's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.