Charlotte Nichols
MP for Warrington North
Lab
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The criminal injuries compensation scheme has not been uprated with inflation since 2012, which means that in real terms, compensation for victims of violent crime, including rape and child abuse, is worth less than half of what it was then. The consultation response published before Easter said that there was not the money to look at changing the scope, tariffs or time limits, despite expert advice and the recommendations of the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse. Will the Prime Minister commit to properly funding the Ministry of Justice to do this vital reform work, so that victims and their needs can become a priority, instead of an afterthought?
Context
The criminal injuries compensation scheme has not been uprated with inflation since 2012, leading to a significant reduction in the real value of compensation for victims of violent crime. Despite expert advice and recommendations from the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse, the government has claimed there is insufficient funding.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
My hon. Friend knows my personal commitment to delivering justice for victims of crime, who have been completely failed over the last 14 years. We are improving access to compensation through better online systems, and are equipping staff with the skills that they need to better support victims. We are of course also consulting on a revised victims code, which will increase the powers of the Victims’ Commissioner to ensure more accountability. I am happy to ensure that she meets the relevant Minister to discuss those issues.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to specific funding for reforms in the criminal injuries compensation scheme.
Provided General Measures For Supporting Victims
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister outline what more can be done, working across Government, to help Warrington meet its target of eliminating suicides?
Context
The MP highlighted the case of a constituent who died by suicide and noted higher suicide rates in the north-west compared to London.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
We are committed to taking forward the suicide prevention strategy for England and recruiting an additional 8,500 mental health workers trained to support people at risk of suicide. One death by suicide is one too many, and reducing the number is a vital part of our health mission.
Session: PMQs
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The long-standing traders in the CPS Centre in Culcheth were devastated to receive eviction notices giving them just 28 days to vacate the premises on spurious pretexts from the new owner, Shivat Haminim Capital. So far, the owner and its legal representatives have failed to hear tenants’ concerns and mine, and to negotiate a way forward. Does the Prime Minister share my concern about this situation, and will he set out our plans to protect independent businesses that are the heart of our high streets and communities?
Context
Long-standing traders in the CPS Centre in Culcheth received eviction notices giving them just 28 days to vacate due to a new owner, the shell company Shivat Haminim Capital. The tenants have not had their concerns heard or negotiated with.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising an issue that is obviously of real concern to businesses in her constituency. We expect landlords to meet their obligations to make buildings safe, and we support robust enforcement action from the regulators if they fail to do so. I will ensure that my hon. Friend secures a meeting with the relevant Minister to discuss what steps can be taken in this particular case to support the businesses on which her constituents rely.
Assessment
The PM did not outline specific plans to protect independent businesses but promised a meeting with the relevant minister.
Promised A Meeting With The Relevant Minister
Session: PMQs
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Can the Prime Minister update the House on progress towards the mission board to tackle violence against women and girls?
Context
The National Police Chiefs' Council declared violence against women and girls a national emergency, with Sky News publishing accounts of sexual harassment and violence against female paramedics.
Keir Starmer
We have made a commitment—a mission—to halve violence against women and girls. We are starting work on the delivery board, and I look forward to updating my hon. Friend and the House.
Session: PMQs
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The UK used to be a world leader in psilocybin research but, despite the calls of the Home Affairs Committee, leading researchers, charities, veterans' organisations and the Royal College of Psychiatrists, we have shamefully fallen behind on breakthrough treatments for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, causing misery to millions of people in our country. Can the Prime Minister explain why this policy remains the responsibility of a Home Office that cannot give it the attention it deserves, and why it is okay that American, Canadian and Australian patients can access treatment that British patients cannot?
Context
UK used to lead in psilocybin research but has fallen behind due to lack of attention from Home Office. American, Canadian and Australian patients can access treatment that British cannot.
Rishi Sunak
I completely sympathise and understand why people suffering from distressing conditions will want to seek the best possible treatment available, and I thank the hon. Lady for raising the issue. We are committed to ensuring that the UK is a world-leading jurisdiction for pharmaceutical, clinical and other medical research, and we have asked the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs to review barriers to legitimate medical research involving controlled drugs such as psilocybin. Our response to the council's recommendations will be published as soon as possible.
Assessment
Specific commitment or timeline for prioritising psilocybin research was not provided
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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I have been contacted by desperate constituents who have rung every single pharmacy within a 50-mile radius of Warrington and still have not been able to access their medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This has been going on for months, and it is not just a Warrington issue: pharmacists are calling it the worst shortage ever, with only 11% of people able to access their full dose this month. ADHD UK has called the Government's response “pathetic”. It is right, isn't it?
Context
Pharmacists are calling it the worst shortage ever, with only 11% of people able to access their full dose this month.
Rishi Sunak
I am sorry to hear about the situation in the hon. Lady's constituency. The Health Secretary heard what she said and is in touch with the relevant drug bodies to ensure that we can have the provision of ADHD medicine for all those who need it.
Assessment
Did not provide a specific timeline or plan for addressing the shortage
Session: PMQs
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This morning, I hosted the MS Society and people living with multiple sclerosis to hear about their experiences accessing personal independence payment. Ten years on from its introduction, people with MS and other fluctuating conditions are still too often being denied the support they deserve to manage the extra costs of their condition and to retain their independence for longer. Some 22,524 people with MS have signed a petition calling for a full review of PIP for fluctuating conditions, which is on its way to Downing Street right now. Will the Prime Minister listen to their call?
Context
A petition signed by 22,524 people with MS is calling for a full review of PIP for fluctuating conditions.
Rishi Sunak
I am very sorry to hear about the experiences of those suffering with MS that the hon. Lady mentions, and I will ensure that the Work and Pensions Secretary looks at their concerns and writes to her.
Assessment
The specific ask for a full review of PIP was not committed to directly; it was instead referred to another department.
Session: PMQs
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What support will the Prime Minister offer to our community, and to our local schools, so that they can support Brianna's classmates and her family as we try to heal from this appalling tragedy?
Context
The community in Warrington was shocked by the murder of a 16-year-old schoolgirl named Brianna Ghey.
Rishi Sunak
I thank the hon. Lady for raising this issue, and express my sympathies to Brianna's family and friends for what has happened. I know that the Home Secretary is shortly due to visit the area, and she will be able to discuss with the hon. Lady what support can be provided for the community at this time.
Assessment
The answer did not specify concrete support measures but promised a discussion on possible support during the Home Secretary's visit.
Promising A Future Discussion
Session: PMQs
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Groundbreaking research published yesterday in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, from King's College London in partnership with Compass Pathways, has now established that psilocybin can be safely administered and may have significant therapeutic benefit in treatment-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. As someone who knows first-hand how debilitating PTSD is, as well as hearing from many constituents who have developed the condition as a result of sexual assault or their experience serving in our armed forces, I ask the Prime Minister to commit today to a review of the regulatory regime that would allow further and more rapid research in this vital area of mental health support.
Context
Research has established that psilocybin can be safely administered and may have therapeutic benefits in treating treatment-resistant depression and PTSD.
Boris Johnson
I thank the hon. Lady for her question, and I appreciate the personal experience that makes her interested in psilocybin. I am aware of interest in the area and it has been talked about several times. I propose that she has a meeting, as soon as it can be arranged, with the relevant Minister in the Department of Health and Social Care.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to reviewing the regulatory regime for psilocybin research specifically but suggested a meeting instead.
Session: PMQs
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With the Government's end-to-end rape review remaining unpublished, rape conviction rates having fallen to their lowest point on record and almost 90% of sexual harassment complaints not even reported to the police, women are increasingly being left without legal recourse against sexual violence. I have parliamentary privilege and can name the men who have hurt me, but millions of women in this country do not have that. Women are stuck between a criminal justice system in which only 1.4% of reported offences result in charges being laid and too many survivors who speak out being pursued through the civil courts by their abusers to silence them. Can the Prime Minister advise how they are meant to get justice?
Context
The government's rape review remains unpublished, rape conviction rates are at a record low, and nearly 90% of sexual harassment complaints go unreported.
Boris Johnson
I am afraid that the hon. Lady is completely right, and I know that she speaks for many women up and down the country. We can do all the things we have talked about, two men arguing over the Dispatch Box. We can bring in more laws and tougher sentences, which I hope she will support. We can support independent domestic violence and sexual violence advisers.
Assessment
Did not address how women are meant to get justice or what specific actions will be taken to improve the situation.
Two Men Arguing Over The Dispatch Box
Session: PMQs
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Given the low conviction rate and high reoffending rates for sexual offences, will the PM commit to reviewing sentencing policies to ensure sex offenders serve full sentences?
Context
Karbon Homes' research shows that the universal credit delay causes rent arrears and destitution among tenants, especially those on benefits.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
I agree with the hon. Lady that we need to address sentencing for sexual offences, as indicated by my earlier response.
Session: PMQs
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Having to plan weeks around the appalling service and regular last-minute delays and cancellations on the west coast main line is among the worst parts of my job as an MP. My constituents are fed up with this service, which affects their ability to work, visit family, and travel for leisure. What consideration has the Secretary of State given to reviewing whether Avanti has breached its franchise contract terms, and accelerating the process by which it can be brought into public ownership?
Context
The MP referenced ongoing issues with Avanti West Coast services, including last-minute delays and cancellations affecting constituents' ability to work, visit family, and travel for leisure. She questioned whether Avanti has breached its franchise contract terms.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
I am obviously sorry to hear about these issues, but let me reassure the hon. Member that officials continue to hold regular meetings with Avanti and Network Rail to try to resolve matters. While performance has improved, we have always been clear that we will transfer operations to public ownership when contracts end rather than spending money on breaking contracts early. We expect the transfers to complete by the end of 2027.
Session: Passenger Rail Performance
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What assessment has her Department made of the effectiveness of Government initiatives in supporting the long-term growth of the video game industry? The UK video games industry is a huge success story, supporting 73,000 jobs, including in Warrington at companies like 10:10, Mindware, Freesphere Entertainment and Second Impact Games, and contributing more to UK GVA than the film and music industries combined. To strengthen UK gaming’s global competitiveness, particularly in the context of recent US announcements, what consideration has the Secretary of State given to enhancing the video games expenditure credit?
Context
The UK video games industry is a significant contributor to the economy, supporting over 73,000 jobs and contributing more GVA than film and music industries combined. Warrington hosts several prominent companies in this sector.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Lisa Nandy)
We are committed to working with the video games sector in Warrington and elsewhere. The video games expenditure credit has been vital for us, and we announced £5.5 million for the UK games fund next year. We recognise the importance of supporting industries affected by recent US announcements, including the video game industry. A new creative industries sector plan will be published to support this sector.
Session: Video Game Industry
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According to research, 52% of integrated care boards in England still require same-sex couples to self-fund at least six to 12 cycles of costly intrauterine insemination before they are eligible to access in vitro fertilisation treatment on the NHS. Can the Minister please tell us what she is doing to end the postcode lottery for lesbian and bi couples looking to start a family?
Context
Research indicates that many integrated care boards in England require lesbian and bi couples to self-fund multiple cycles of intrauterine insemination before qualifying for NHS-funded IVF treatment.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
My hon. Friend is right to draw the House’s attention to the postcode lottery and the patchy access to IVF across our country. We want to make sure that everyone has fair access to high-quality care. The Department of Health and Social Care has started to make progress towards its ambition to improve access to IVF services, and we also await the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence concluding its review on clinical guidance for the provision of such services.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority's framework has gaps, particularly lacking interim support for victims of crime under 18 before they can access their award. This is profoundly affecting three of my young constituents and their families dealing with the consequences of rape. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss how we can do more for child victims of serious offending?
Context
The framework lacks interim support for child victims before accessing their award. Three young constituents who were victims of rape are affected.
Alex Davies-Jones
My hon. Friend raises an important point about the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority. The previous Government undertook a review; no response was published when the election was called in May. We are considering support for victims, including child victims, and advising on a new victims' code in the new year to look at this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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As part of the transition from high-carbon sectors, what specific measures are the Government taking to retrain workers and transfer skills into the nuclear energy industry, thus ensuring that they benefit from job creation in this growing sector in my constituency and throughout the country?
Context
The MP notes that civil nuclear has a higher employment multiplier than any other form of zero or low-carbon energy generation, highlighting the need for measures to retrain high-carbon sector workers.
Sarah Jones
Obviously the last Government did nothing about nuclear in 14 years, apart from coming up with a plan. We will ensure that nuclear is an important part of our country's future, and we will be working to provide the right skills and jobs in the right places to deliver that.
Session: Workers in High-Carbon Sectors
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Two years after the dismissal of nearly 800 P&O Ferries workers, why has the Government not closed the legal loophole that allowed these actions? The workers were UK-based but the ships were flagged out, avoiding criminal sanctions. What specific steps will be taken to prevent future abuses?
Context
P&O Ferries dismissed nearly 800 seafarers two years ago without notice or consultation. This action bypassed trade union rights and employment law due to a legal loophole.
Anthony Browne
We have introduced measures such as the Seafarers' Wages Act 2023, which ensures minimum wage compliance for UK seafarers. We also opened a minimum wage corridor with France and are working on the seafarer charter to ensure higher standards.
Session: Seafarer Welfare P&O Ferries
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What recent assessment has been made of the adequacy of seafarer welfare standards on P&O Ferries' fleet? I am concerned that trade union rights and employment law were bypassed, allowing P&O to avoid criminal sanctions. Why hasn't this legal loophole been closed?
Context
Two years ago, P&O Ferries dismissed nearly 800 seafarers without notice or consultation. This raised concerns about the adequacy of seafarer welfare standards.
Anthony Browne
The Government have introduced measures to improve seafarer welfare, including the Seafarers' Wages Act 2023, which will ensure minimum wage compliance for UK seafarers and open a minimum wage corridor with France. We expect all operators to meet international standards under the Maritime Labour Convention.
Session: Seafarer Welfare P&O Ferries
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Following the recent state visit from the Korean President, when he identified nuclear as one of the key sectors for future collaboration in the UK-Korea trade deal, and the publication—albeit two years later than promised—of the civil nuclear road map last week, could the Minister please detail what conversations are taking place with the Department for Business and Trade to maximise inward investment opportunities for the nuclear supply chain in Warrington North and across the UK?
Context
Following the state visit from the Korean President, UK-Korea trade deals are identifying nuclear as a key sector for collaboration.
Andrew Bowie
I thank the hon. Lady for her question and for her support for our nuclear road map published last week. As she knows, we look forward to increasing the opportunities to co-operate with South Korea on civil nuclear, including on fuel supply chain safety, security, non-proliferation, decommissioning and the development of new reactors in both countries. That will benefit jobs and the supply chain around the UK, specifically where there is a strong history of a nuclear industry, such as in her constituency, which she champions.
Session: Topical Questions
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If those projects have not been delivered, why should constituents trust this is not a case of the north getting neither while London benefits from major transport infrastructure projects?
Context
MP notes that many projects announced under Network North were previously promised and not delivered over the last 13 years.
Mark Harper
Every single penny that would have been spent in the north is being spent in the north, and every single penny that was going to be spent in the midlands is being reinvested in the midlands. The money freed up from HS2 Euston will be spent on transport projects better suited to local needs.
Session: Network North and HS2 Phase 2 Comparative Assessment
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What comparative assessment has been made of the economic impact of Network North and phase 2 of High Speed 2?
Context
The MP highlights the importance of rail infrastructure for economic growth, connectivity and inward investment.
Mark Harper
The cost of HS2 has increased, reducing its relative benefits. Every penny from £36 billion that would have been spent on phase 2 will be reinvested into local infrastructure and transport schemes across the country, including £20 billion for projects in the north.
Session: Network North and HS2 Phase 2 Comparative Assessment
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What strategy will the Government bring forward to attract, recruit and retain the neurology workforce?
Context
This week is MS Awareness Week, with concerns over long wait times for neurology appointments after GP referrals.
Steve Barclay
The government is targeting the workforce within pandemic recovery constraints. I am happy to write with more details about capability and plan.
Session: GP Appointments
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When can we expect the Home Office to reschedule psilocybin for medicinal use as Australia, Europe, and the US have done?
Context
Australia's medical regulator has moved to reschedule psilocybin for medicinal use.
Chris Philp
The hon. Lady raises a reasonable point about psilocybin rescheduling. We are getting advice from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs and will act as soon as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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The most recent figures published by the UK Health Security Agency show that, last year, the rate of syphilis cases reached its highest since 1991 and the total number of cases hit its highest since 1948. That shocking increase in syphilis transmission is just one reason why we need the Government to set out their vision for sexual and reproductive health in their long-overdue sexual and reproductive health action plan. Can I therefore ask the Minister to set out when the plan will be published and what she is doing to stop the spread of syphilis?
Context
Syphilis cases in the UK have reached alarming levels, prompting calls for a sexual and reproductive health action plan.
Maria Caulfield
Can I just reassure the hon. Lady that we take sexual health services very seriously? Local authorities in England have received more than £3 billion from Government to support those services. We have produced a number of plans to improve sexual and reproductive health, from the HIV action plan in 2021 to the women's health strategy, which focuses on sexual health as well.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last month, I visited Japan with the British Council where I saw its fantastic work to promote UK arts and culture and to strengthen our trading relationship with a key ally in the Indo-Pacific region. Does the Minister agree that the British Council is a soft power powerhouse, and can he tell me what work the Department does with it to boost trade around the world?
Context
The MP visited Japan with the British Council, observing its efforts to promote UK arts and culture and strengthen trading relationships. She inquires about the Department's work with the British Council on boosting international trade.
Greg Hands
I thank the hon. Lady for that question. We work closely with all aspects of UK hard and soft power abroad and we frequently work with the British Council, particularly on our education exports, which are a huge sector and a huge opportunity for this country. We engage regularly with the British Council to ensure that the DIT is at the forefront of our educational offer in particular and that the ties of friendship promoted by the British Council feed through into our commercial relationship. There is no better example of that than our excellent recent deal with Japan.
Session: Japan
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What steps she is taking to increase trade with Japan. In 2021, the Conservative Government concluded the UK-Japan comprehensive economic partnership agreement—the first major trade deal that the UK struck as an independent trading nation. That agreement provides significant opportunities for British business in Japan and goes further than the previous EU deal.
Context
The MP highlights the UK-Japan comprehensive economic partnership agreement and seeks details on steps to increase trade with Japan.
Greg Hands
In 2021, the Conservative Government concluded the UK-Japan comprehensive economic partnership agreement—the first major trade deal that the UK struck as an independent trading nation. That agreement provides significant opportunities for British business in Japan and goes further than the previous EU deal. It also strengthens our case for accession to the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership. The UK Government are also working hard to reduce barriers to trade in Japan—for example, last year, we secured market access for UK poultry, which is worth £65 million over five years.
Session: Japan
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Psilocybin should never have been designated a schedule 1 substance, but this position by the Home Office has become even more untenable following publication this month of the largest multi-site phase 2b trial of psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression. The study found rapid and enduring reductions in depression symptoms on a 25 mg dose. The further, very promising research in the UK is being severely hindered by psilocybin's schedule 1 status and the prohibitive associated costs for our academic researchers. Will the Home Secretary finally commit to rescheduling psilocybin and related compounds to schedule 2, to allow more research into mental health treatment paradigms that could see a happier, healthier and more productive country and a growth boom for our science, innovation and pharmacology sectors?
Context
Psilocybin's current scheduling as a class 1 drug is hindering promising UK-based research into its potential therapeutic benefits, especially in treating treatment-resistant depression. The Home Office's position on this issue has been criticized.
Chris Philp
The drug to which the hon. Lady refers is an MDMA-based medicine. The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs is currently considering the barriers to legitimate research that are posed by controlled drugs. Once we have had its advice on the topic, including the implications for psychedelic drugs, such as MDMA and psilocybin, we will obviously take an appropriate decision in relation to research. In relation to more widespread availability, we will follow the decisions made by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence before reaching any such decision ourselves.
Session: Ingredients Scheduled under Drug Legislation Review
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Whether she is taking steps with Cabinet colleagues to ensure that the potential health benefits of ingredients scheduled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 are kept under review.
Context
The question arises from concerns over the health benefits of certain drugs that are scheduled under the Misuse of Drugs Act and Regulations, specifically regarding their potential medicinal use.
Chris Philp
Drug control seeks to strike a balance between preventing criminality on the one hand and allowing access for legitimate use, such as medicines development, on the other. The Government are guided in their decisions by the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs as a well-established process for taking these decisions, and of course we follow the expert advice.
Session: Ingredients Scheduled under Drug Legislation Review
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Schools across my constituency face extraordinary financial pressures, particularly in special educational needs settings where costs per pupil are higher, and in older schools where the Government's failure to invest in the school estate means higher costs for heating and repairs. With inflation running out of control, which is an effective 10% cut in real terms to this year's budgets, senior management teams are desperately worried that they will not be able to balance the books, especially with higher demand for things such as breakfast clubs as parents feel the pinch. Can the Secretary of State please inform us what representations he has made to the Treasury to address the crisis in education funding?
Context
Schools in Warrington North face financial pressures due to inflation and increased costs for special educational needs and older school infrastructure. The current situation represents an effective 10% real-terms cut to this year's budgets, leading to concerns about balancing the books.
Kit Malthouse
Notwithstanding the significant increase in the schools budget last year, we are monitoring the impact of those global inflationary forces on schools across the whole country. We are in constant conversation with leadership, unions and headteachers about their finances. When it became clear that schools would be severely impacted by the rise in energy costs, we acted immediately to ensure they were included in the energy bill relief scheme.
Session: Rising Costs Support for Schools
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What plans do you have to help support schools with rising costs?
Context
Schools in Warrington North face financial pressures due to inflation and increased costs for special educational needs and older school infrastructure. The current situation represents an effective 10% real-terms cut to this year's budgets, leading to concerns about balancing the books.
Kit Malthouse
The Government are committed to supporting schools, investing £4 billion in the core schools budget this year. They have acted immediately on energy costs by including schools in the energy bill relief scheme and continue dynamic conversations with Treasury colleagues regarding school funding.
Session: Rising Costs Support for Schools
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Will the Minister follow Labour's lead and introduce a German-style ban on making pregnant women redundant from notification of pregnancy to six months after they return to work?
Context
Research from the TUC found that one in four pregnant women experienced unfair treatment or discrimination at work during the pandemic, including being singled out for redundancy or furlough.
Paul Scully
We believe extending MAPLE provisions is better. After due consideration, we will bring this forward as soon as parliamentary time allows.
Session: Pregnancy and Maternity Discrimination
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While we still see instances of victims of sexual assault being named publicly, women continue to be silenced from naming their abusers by civil actions from those who are wealthy enough to take them. I wrote to the Prime Minister in March asking him to take action on this, but the Minister's reply of 13 April missed this point entirely. Will he now say what steps he will take to prevent victims from being gagged by wealthy and powerful abusers in civil courts?
Context
Victims of sexual assault are being silenced from naming their abusers through civil actions taken by wealthy and powerful individuals. The questioner previously wrote to the Prime Minister in March asking for action, but received a reply that missed this point entirely.
Kit Malthouse
Obviously, we want to make sure that there is equity before the law, and no matter how rich or powerful someone is, they have to obey the rules as they are laid down. We are giving consideration to what more we can do in this area to make sure that the anonymity of victims in this kind of case is protected and there is sufficient deterrent and punishment for those who name their own victims, or indeed those who are victims in court, so that it does not occur.
Session: Sexual Assault Naming of Victims
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What steps he is taking in response to people naming victims of sexual assault. Complainants in rape and sexual offence cases are protected by automatic reporting restrictions with a lifetime ban on reporting any matter likely to identify a victim from the moment the offence is reported.
Context
People are naming victims of sexual assault, raising concerns about the safety and protection of these individuals.
Kit Malthouse
Complainants in rape and sexual offence cases are protected by automatic reporting restrictions with a lifetime ban on reporting any matter likely to identify a victim from the moment the offence is reported. We are giving consideration to what more we could do to provide greater deterrence and punishment when an offence is committed.
Session: Sexual Assault Naming of Victims
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Ms Charlotte Nichols demanded an apology from the Government for allowing harmful practices to continue. She asked for a full legislative ban on these practices and protection for LGBT individuals.
Context
The practice of conversion therapy has continued for nearly three years despite government commitments, leading to ongoing harm.
Elizabeth Truss
I am clear that conversion therapy is abhorrent. Since taking this role, I have worked on ensuring the ban will be enforceable. We are also working on other issues such as reforming the Gender Recognition Act 2004 and improving transgender health care.
Session: Conversion Therapy
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What steps will the Minister take to ensure affordable childcare is available for all parents who need it?
Context
A TUC survey found that 71% of mothers asking to be furloughed due to childcare responsibilities have been refused by their employers.
Kemi Badenoch
I thank the hon. Lady for her question. The Government have provided significant support for those people who have been furloughed, and there is a childcare provision within universal credit. We recognise that parents across the country are having difficulties during the pandemic, and we have put several measures in place to ensure they have the support required.
Session: Covid-19 Support for Women
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Research shows that about 90% of mothers have increased their childcare responsibilities during the pandemic, with 43% having to balance this with working from home. This is a particular pressure for single-parent households, mostly headed by women. With women at greater risk of redundancy and disproportionately employed in sectors hardest hit by shutdowns, will the Minister commit to creating a legal, enforceable and immediate right for parents to request paid, flexible furlough?
Context
Research by the Trades Union Congress indicates that mothers have taken on more childcare responsibilities since the pandemic began, leading to pressures in balancing work and childcare, especially for single-parent households.
Paul Scully
Certainly furlough is available for women who have childcare responsibilities. It is up to employers whether they give this option, but if women feel disadvantaged, they can approach ACAS.
Session: Economic Recovery Employment for Women
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Does the Minister think it is fair that many disabled people have had to choose between their lives and livelihoods when employers refuse to put them on furlough?
Context
Over 600,000 people in work who are clinically extremely vulnerable have been affected by current shielding guidance.
Kemi Badenoch
As the hon. Lady will know, the pandemic has affected many different groups in very bad ways, and we have done everything we can to support them. Specifically on disabled people, we have done quite a lot in looking at the benefits that they have and providing support in many other ways, including employment support. These are the ways that we are protecting those people who are being disproportionately impacted.
Session: Covid-19 Economic Effect
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Charlotte Nichols asks about the delay in publishing the full response and legislation following the closure of the online harms consultation. She mentions that based on police data, an average of one online abuse offence against a child is recorded every 16 minutes in England and Wales, equating to up to 90 offences per day.
Context
The Government published their initial response to the consultation on online harms White Paper, which proposed a duty of care for companies to keep users safe while protecting freedom of expression.
Matt Warman (Minister for Digital and Culture)
The Government is committed to moving as quickly as possible. A full response will be published in the spring, and legislation will be introduced this Session. Many of the offences mentioned are already covered by existing laws, but the online harms Bill will provide a coherent approach.
Session: Online Harmful Material
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Mindfulness in Schools — [James Gray in the Chair]
07 February 2024
Responding: Damian Hinds
Main Concerns
['The hon. Member Charlotte Nichols is concerned about the mental health crisis facing young people and the challenges faced by teachers, including a record number of teachers leaving the profession and rising sick leave levels. She highlighted the tragic case of Brianna Ghey, whose mother set up the Peace in Mind campaign to bring mindfulness into schools. The initiative has raised over £50,000 since September 2023 for mindfulness programmes in Warrington.']
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member asks that the Government commit to bringing mindfulness into all schools as part of a solution to mental health and recruitment crises. She believes this can provide long-term benefits by reducing reliance on mental health services and improving overall well-being, though she acknowledges it is not a panacea.']
Professional Wrestling: Event Licensing and Guidance
07 June 2023
Responding: John Whittingdale
Main Concerns
['The lead MP expressed concerns about the inconsistent categorization of professional wrestling as either theatre or sport, leading to discrepancies in licensing requirements across different local authorities. She highlighted issues such as inadequate insurance coverage, health and safety risks, and potential legal violations, including tax malpractice and sexual harassment. The MP also noted disparities in medical supervision at events, with some promotions lacking proper medical supplies and trained professionals.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP requested that the Home Office broaden TENs licence guidance to include health and safety protocols for wrestling suppliers, similar to recommendations made by her all-party parliamentary group (APPG) on wrestling. She also called for a national approach to licensing to ensure consistency and clarity in requirements across local authorities.']
Bus Service Improvement Plans: North-west England
09 March 2022
Responding: Trudy Harrison
Main Concerns
["In Warrington and across the North West, millions of people rely on buses for essential travel. Over the last decade, deregulation and a Tory decline have resulted in more than 3,000 bus routes being lost and over 350,000 passenger journeys disappearing. The reduction in services has led to increased air pollution, with over 1,000 deaths annually linked to poor air quality in the Liverpool city region alone. Despite the 'Bus Back Better' strategy promising a great service for everyone everywhere, funding for bus service transformation from £3 billion to £1.2 billion is insufficient, leading to communities being cut off and services potentially being reduced or lost."]
Specific Asks
['Will the Minister admit that many areas will not see any transformation funding? Will she provide details on how much local transport authorities in the North West are set to receive?']
Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
14 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Holocaust Memorial Day 2026-01-29
29 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The hon. Member for Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket opened the debate by highlighting the importance of Holocaust Memorial Day, especially in the context of recent events in Gaza which have polarized c...
Social Media Non-consensual Sexual Deepfakes 2026-01-12
12 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Policy 2025-11-17
17 November 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Drug-related Deaths 2025-11-05
05 November 2025
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
I extend my thanks to Mr Speaker for providing the opportunity to discuss the crucial matter of drug-related deaths. I declare an interest as the unremunerated chair of the Centre for Evidence Based D...
Manchester Terrorism Attack 2025-10-13
13 October 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Digital ID 2025-10-13
13 October 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Child Sexual Exploitation Casey Report 2025-06-16
16 June 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme 2025-06-16
16 June 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Leader of the House of Commons moves to establish an Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS), noting that its establishment in 2018 was a significant step towards addressing inappropria...
Independent Sentencing Review 2025-05-22
22 May 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Lord Chancellor opened the debate by presenting the Government's response to the independent sentencing review, chaired by David Gauke. She highlighted that despite building prisons and increasing...
Attendance
83.1%
69 of 83 votes
Aye Votes
27
32.5% of votes
No Votes
42
50.6% of votes
Abstentions
14
16.9% of votes
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED AYE
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
11
PMQs Asked
27
Ministerial Questions Asked
137
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
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 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+199% above average
This MP:
11
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+98% above average
This MP:
27
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2730% above average
This MP:
137
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 (%)
+20% above average
This MP:
83.1
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 Charlotte Nichols's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.