Chi Onwurah
MP for Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Lab
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
In National Apprenticeship Week, will he congratulate the 600 apprentices learning trades as part of the Tyne bridge restoration programme? While I know that he cannot confirm bridging the funding gap left by the Tories, will he confirm that he is looking forward to seeing the Tyne bridge restored in time for its 100th birthday in 2028?
Context
The MP references National Apprenticeship Week and the 600 apprentices involved in the Tyne bridge restoration. She also mentions the funding gap left by previous government.
The Prime Minister
I am going to struggle to sound delighted with the result of that particular football match, but it will be a special day for Newcastle fans. The Tyne bridge is an iconic north-east landmark and I congratulate the apprentices who are helping to restore that vital piece of infrastructure. As usual, the Tories made empty promises that they had no intention of keeping, including £2.9 billion-worth of transport commitments that were never funded. We will look at the capital projects around the spending review and let my hon. Friend know as soon as we can.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not confirm a timeline for completion of the Tyne Bridge restoration.
Tories Made Empty Promises
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
My constituent Lisa cares for her mother. She works part-time at WHSmith and was sure to keep the Department for Work and Pensions informed so that she would not be overpaid carer's allowance. However, because of a DWP blunder, she now faces a bill for £4,000. The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology cares for her career. She works part-time as a woke detector. However, when she blundered, calling a top scientist a Hamas supporter, the bill—tens of thousands of pounds in costs and damages—was picked up by taxpayers like Lisa. Why?
Context
MP questions about recovery of overpaid carers' allowance due to a DWP blunder.
Oliver Dowden
It is this Government who have uprated benefits for carers, with almost £1,500 more. I think it is the case that the hon. Lady's constituents, my constituents and people up and down the country would expect the Government to seek to recover overpaid sums.
Assessment
The questioner asked why recovery efforts are different for carers versus government staff in similar situations. The answer did not address this issue directly but provided context about benefit upratings and general expectations of recovering overpaid amounts.
Provided Historical Context
Stated General Expectation
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I am concerned about half of children in Newcastle growing up in poverty, increased use of food parcels, 50% rise in child homelessness, and £1,000 drop in parent wages with a five-month wait for mental health treatment. Why are his Government making it so hard for our kids?
Context
Half the children in Newcastle are growing up in poverty, with significant increases in food parcel delivery and homelessness among north-east children. Average parent wages have fallen by £1,000 and there is a five-month wait for mental health treatment.
Oliver Dowden
I really think this House needs a correction on the facts, given what we have heard from the Labour party. Because of our national living wage, which is defined as being at least two thirds of the median income, poverty is at its lowest point for years. We have lifted 1.7 million people out of absolute poverty altogether.
Assessment
Did not acknowledge specific issues raised about children's well-being; Emphasized poverty statistics instead.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Child poverty is evil—I know; I grew up with it. The North East Child Poverty Commission reports that our region suffered the country's biggest increase in child poverty between 2015 and 2019, when half of children in Newcastle upon Tyne Central were growing up poor, and that was before covid. Yet 15,000 of the poorest households in my constituency stand to lose £1,000 a year because of planned cuts to universal credit in April. Instead of damaging last-minute U-turns, will the Prime Minister now commit to maintaining universal credit at least at the current rate?
Context
The North East Child Poverty Commission reported a significant increase in child poverty in Newcastle upon Tyne Central between 2015 and 2019. Additionally, 15,000 of the poorest households in the constituency are set to lose £1,000 annually due to planned cuts to universal credit.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Lady is right in what she says about the impact of child poverty, and that is why this Government have worked so hard to combat child poverty. That is why we did indeed uprate universal credit, which is right for the exceptional circumstances we are in. That was £1,000 a household, and we will continue to support people throughout the country, but the most important thing we can do is to ensure that we get people into work and support families to get the jobs they need. It is the record of this country in creating jobs, and new jobs in particular, that has meant that 400,000 children have been lifted out of poverty in the past 10 years. That is progress. It is not enough, but it is progress.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to maintaining universal credit at its current rate.
Working With Partners
Under Review
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
My constituent Rikky Wilson is one of the excluded from grant support despite having built a private coach business with 18 employees and £1 million in turnover before covid. Buses might be just a photo-op for the Prime Minister, but they matter in the north and in Northern Ireland which has announced special funds. Will he do the same? Will he also write to me to explain how we can protect those threatened by personal debt guarantees?
Context
Rikky Wilson's coach business in Newcastle faces closure due to lack of grants despite substantial contributions. The Prime Minister has announced bus investment, but Northern Ireland has specific funds for similar businesses.
Boris Johnson
I am interested in what the hon. Lady says because this Government are investing massively in 5,000 low-carbon buses. I would be interested to know more about Rikky Wilson's company and its eligibility for support measures such as bounce back loans. She is invited to write with further details.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address the specific request for a similar fund or writing to explain protections against personal debt guarantees.
Inviting The Mp To Write With More Details
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Ms. Onwurah asks for a message to those businesses who do not stand with their staff, particularly Mike Ashley forcing workers into empty Sports Direct shops.
Context
Some businesses are not adhering to government guidelines.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
The advice—the instruction—to the gentleman in question, and indeed every business, is to follow what the Government have said: to obey the rules or to expect the consequences.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
An extraordinary debate is going on right now inside and outside AI companies about whether the possibility of AI destroying humanity is more or less than 10%. The European Union is moving ahead with a comprehensive AI regulatory framework, but the UK continues to rely on existing regulation. What discussions is the Minister having with the European Union about aligning AI regulation, especially given that Anthropic has refused to submit its model to the AI Security Institute? How is he ensuring that we can keep European and UK citizens safe?
Context
An extraordinary debate is ongoing about the possibility of AI destroying humanity. The European Union is moving ahead with a comprehensive AI regulatory framework.
Hamish Falconer
My hon. Friend is right to highlight the shared challenges that we face with the European Union, including the very rapid developments in artificial intelligence. I am proud to sit next to my right hon. Friend the Member for Vale of Glamorgan (Kanishka Narayan), the first AI Minister to attend Cabinet—here, and indeed anywhere—and I know that he will be answering some questions during this session. This is clearly a matter of real interest and concern, as my hon. Friend the Member for Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West (Dame Chi Onwurah) says, and we are working at pace to address it.
Session: EU-UK Relationship 2026-09-10
View All Questions -->
The Select Committee's report “Science diplomacy: Sovereignty, strategy and the global race” highlighted the risk of the UK being cut off from frontier AI models. What assessment has the Secretary of State made of the impact on the UK's society and economy if we were unable to access those models?
Context
A Select Committee report highlighted the risk of the UK being cut off from frontier AI models at the discretion of other countries.
Lisa Nandy
My hon. Friend is right to point to the UK's need for sovereign capability in AI. The Government is taking the need to deal with the exposure of the UK very seriously, and I would be happy to meet her to discuss that further.
Session: Frontier Artificial Intelligence 2026-09-03
View All Questions -->
Businesses and individuals are increasingly discovering the advantages of living and working in the north-east—and no doubt the north-west, too—but unreliable train wi-fi means that journeys to the regions are too often dead time. I know that the Government are investing in technology to improve wi-fi services, but can the Minister tell me when we will see reliable wi-fi on LNER services, so that the whole nation's productivity can be improved?
Context
Unreliable train wi-fi in the north-east and north-west hinders productivity. The Government is investing in technology for improved wi-fi services.
Heidi Alexander
As I said in answer to my hon. Friend the Member for Camborne and Redruth (Perran Moon), we are planning to begin procurement for enhanced wi-fi across the rail network later this year. That will include LNER, because in the spending review the Chancellor allocated £57 million to deploy low earth orbit satellite technology on our mainline trains. We need to get that procurement done, and then it can be rolled out from there.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-16
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary meet with Chi Onwurah and colleagues from the region to address this disparity?
Context
The North-East sends the highest proportion of young people to the armed forces but receives the lowest proportion of investment spend.
Luke Pollard
I will be very happy to meet with her and other north-east colleagues to look at opportunities available in the £298 billion defence investment plan over four years.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-06
View All Questions -->
What conversations has he had with Ofcom about including misinformation in its crisis response protocol?
Context
The Select Committee report on social media, misinformation, and harmful algorithms was published a year ago following the Southport riots. False information played a significant role in the Belfast riots.
Kanishka Narayan
Ofcom conversations include empowering users, following up on recommendations from the Select Committee report, and considering categories of harm as part of crisis playbooks. Misinformation is under review.
Session: Ofcom Crisis Response Protocol 2026-07-01
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister ensure that as part of the UK-EU summit, our leading technology sector works closely with European Union allies to ensure that we have greater competition and resilience in our technology stack?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of US restrictions on access to AI models for UK businesses, and seeks clarity on how the government will work with EU allies.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
There are a number of areas where additional work with the European Union will be in our national interest. One of the great advantages of having annual UK-EU summits is that precisely those issues can be brought up.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
A constituent's father worked all his life in public service but did not receive his pension provision. Another was having his pension paid until Capita took over, and now he is receiving nothing. The problem is the IT system. If Capita cannot make this work by June, it should not be given more time or contracts.
Context
Capita's IT system failures have led to delayed pensions for public servants, affecting families left behind after a constituent's father died tragically. Another constituent had their pension paid until Capita took over and now receives nothing.
Satvir Kaur
The situation is unacceptable and we will hold Capita to account using all commercial levers. If Capita fails, all options including considering its other Government contracts will be considered.
Session: Civil Service Pension Scheme
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State explain how long it would take for the oil to flow if we permitted drilling new wells tomorrow, who would benefit the most from that oil, and how that would bring down prices at the pumps or energy bills in Newcastle? Given that big oil companies would likely benefit the most, is he surprised that 70% of Reform's funding comes from fuel investors?
Context
The local elections saw Reform claim that drilling new wells in the North Sea would reduce energy prices, which is doubted by the MP. Constituents are concerned about rising fuel bills.
Ed Miliband
My hon. Friend makes a very important point. The big choice we face is whether to double down on fossil fuels or drive further for clean energy. We have chosen the latter path.
Session: Energy Bills
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to help reduce energy bills in Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West constituency. Tackling the cost of living crisis is crucial as the price cap increase due to the war in Iran was concerning news for families in my hon. Friend's constituency.
Context
The MP notes the price cap increase due to the war in Iran, which is a concern for constituents. The government has announced measures but more action is needed.
Ed Miliband
Tackling the cost of living crisis is the Government's top priority. They have acted to take £150 off bills in the coming years and expanded the warm home discount, accelerating the warm homes plan to help protect constituents from fossil fuel price spikes.
Session: Energy Bills
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State take steps to regulate digital advertising, as the Committee called for in its report published almost a year ago?
Context
Engagement-driven digital advertising is accused of incentivising harmful platform practices such as misinformation and clickbait.
Liz Kendall
My right hon. Friend is chairing the digital advertising taskforce, which is looking at precisely these issues to ensure that illegal and harmful content is not rewarded.
Session: Child Protection Online
View All Questions -->
I thank the Minister for that response and welcome the increased investment in tackling homelessness in Newcastle, which is transforming lives. Homeless women are both more vulnerable and less visible. The Women's Homelessness Alliance North East showed recently just how serious a problem this is. Through a proactive and concentrated survey, it identified 144 women sleeping rough—far more than councils were aware of at the time. Without accurate data, it is hard to plan effective support, leaving women at greater risk. What are the Government doing specifically to ensure that women's homelessness is better measured, monitored and dealt with?
Context
The Women's Homelessness Alliance North East identified a significant number of homeless women in Newcastle, highlighting the need for better data collection and monitoring.
Alison McGovern
My hon. Friend makes the case for women's homelessness and rough sleeping to be better understood. To improve evidence, we added an indicator on gender to the monthly rough sleeping survey, which we published in February 2026, but I encourage all local authorities to listen to the question that she just asked, to consider taking part in the women's rough sleeping census and to understand that domestic abuse is the third biggest reason for homelessness. We need to act on this issue.
Session: Homelessness Among Women
View All Questions -->
What steps his Department is taking to help reduce levels of homelessness among women in the Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West constituency?
Context
The constituency of Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West has a significant homelessness issue, particularly affecting women. The Women's Homelessness Alliance North East recently identified 144 women sleeping rough, far more than previously known.
Alison McGovern
We are providing £3.6 billion of funding over the next three years to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping, including £11 million for Newcastle through the homelessness, rough sleeping and domestic abuse grant. Councils can use that funding flexibly to meet the needs of women in their area, which is vital given that, recently, 40% of homeless households were single women or women with children.
Session: Homelessness Among Women
View All Questions -->
The roll-out of Project Gigabit in my constituency has been a failure because Freedom Fibre has handed back the contract, with many thousands of properties unconnected, and the replacement contract is likely to take many more years to deliver gigabit access to thousands of my constituents. The all-party parliamentary group on digital communities, which I chair, has suggested some solutions to the problem. Will the Minister come to one of our meetings, and meet us, in order to understand how critical this is for rural communities?
Context
Project Gigabit roll-out failure with Freedom Fibre handing back contract, leaving thousands unconnected.
Ian Murray
I am happy to ensure that the Minister in the other place who deals with this particular issue meets the APPG. However, Project Gigabit is designed to adapt in the event of a contracted supplier no longer being able to complete its planned delivery, using a mix of contracts and interventions. We are keen to hear from the hon. Lady about the experiences of her constituents.
Session: Rural Broadband
View All Questions -->
It was a pleasure to see the Foreign Secretary at last month's Munich security conference, where, despite warm words on all sides, the trust gap between the European Union and the United States was absolutely palpable, impacting discussions on defence, procurement, technology, sovereignty, Greenland, the middle east and so on. Could she tell me how she sees the UK's role: should we be trying to restore trust, because we have our own trust gap, should we pick a side—the European Union versus the United States—or do we forge an independent path dependent on neither?
Context
Chi Onwurah raised concerns about the trust gap between the EU and US at the Munich security conference, affecting discussions on defense and other issues.
Yvette Cooper
The UK's task must always be to act in the UK's national interest according to UK values, but at the heart of that national interest and those values are things such as the NATO alliance—the transatlantic alliance—as well as our partnership with other European countries and other countries on our defence.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Newcastle's iconic swing bridge no longer swings due to neglect under previous governments. What help can the Secretary of State provide for its restoration?
Context
Northern industries built the nation but were neglected by previous governments, exemplified by Newcastle's iconic non-functioning swing bridge. A feasibility study is underway.
Ian Murray
I commend my hon. Friend's campaign for Newcastle's swing bridge on its 150th anniversary year. The feasibility study led by Newcastle city council aims to understand if and how the grade II listed building can be returned to full operation.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I thank the Minister for that response. For 100 years and more, skilled workers in the north-east have relied on high-paid energy jobs, be they in coal, gas or oil in mines, factories, ports and rigs. Labour's clean power mission can bring new jobs to existing supply chains, but companies and workers need help to transition. Will the Minister tell me how she plans to future-proof the north-east's energy supply chain and deliver secure, well-paid and unionised jobs?
Context
The question is prompted by the need for support in transitioning workers from traditional high-paid energy jobs to new opportunities in clean power.
Katie White
My hon. Friend is absolutely correct to highlight the huge opportunities for the north-east in the energy transition. We estimate an additional 10,000 jobs by 2030, building on those that are already in place in offshore wind in the Port of Tyne and in nuclear Hartlepool. She is right to point out the importance of the transition for both existing workers and the next generation. That is why we have introduced a clean energy jobs plan to ensure that that transition is as successful as possible.
Session: Green Energy Sector North-east England
View All Questions -->
What steps are being taken to support the green energy sector in the north-east?
Context
The question arises from the need to support green energy initiatives in Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West.
Katie White
As set out in the recent northern growth strategy, the north-east is at the forefront of our clean energy revolution. Our industrial strategy's clean energy industries sector plan sets out measures which will support investment and growth across the UK. Great British Energy has supported grants to mayoral strategic authorities, which will enable locally led energy projects.
Session: Green Energy Sector North-east England
View All Questions -->
One year ago, Meta, TikTok, X, and Google all confirmed to my Committee that they hold themselves accountable to the British people through Parliament, and before Easter we will revisit the findings of our social media and algorithms inquiry in an evidence session with them. I mention that because it is clear that Governments across the world are urgently seeking ways to make tech platforms more accountable. As the Secretary of State consults on children and social media, will she confirm that any eventual ban should be in addition to and not instead of more effective regulation of those powerful platforms?
Context
The Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee mentioned previous evidence sessions with tech companies regarding their accountability to the British people.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Liz Kendall)
I thank my hon. Friend for the work she is leading on this crucial issue, and I know how passionately she and the Committee feel about the role of algorithms, misinformation, disinformation and the impact on our democracy and the political process. We have launched a specific consultation on children’s online lives, and we want to ensure that AI and tech is used for good, and not to cause further problems in our society.
Session: Teenagers’ Use of Social Media
View All Questions -->
Does the Minister agree with the OBR that the bursting of the AI bubble presents a significant downside risk to the UK economy? What steps are his Department and UKRI taking to protect their investment in innovative companies that would undoubtedly be affected by an AI market correction?
Context
UKRI will publish its detailed funding allocations for programmes such as ReImagining Supply Chains this afternoon. The Office for Budget Responsibility has raised concerns about the bursting of the AI bubble, which presents a significant downside risk to the UK economy.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts (Ian Murray)
I thank the Chair of the Select Committee for her question. Technological advancement in AI is going to change the way that the Government work, and the way that all of us work. The key thing about the publication of UK Research and Innovation’s document this afternoon is that it is implementing a record £86 billion-worth of investment over the spending review period—the largest ever investment in research and development. We have to trust UKRI and this Government to put that money into the places that will benefit the country most, and that means more jobs in more communities all over the country.
Session: Supply Chain Resilience
View All Questions -->
My constituents expect me to spend my time addressing their issues rather than managing an inbox flooded with lobbyist spam and bots from Russia and China. Microsoft Copilot offers help in writing emails but does not address inbox management issues despite repeated requests. Can the House confirm whether we are paying for this functionality that is not being used, and when will solutions be provided to address MPs' actual needs?
Context
The issue of unwanted emails flooding MPs' inboxes, hindering their ability to serve constituents effectively. The Parliamentary Digital Service has introduced a paid version of Microsoft Copilot AI, but there are concerns about its utility.
Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney) (Lab)
The volume of unwanted emails received by MPs is a known problem, but no easy solution has been found yet. Testing has taken place to determine if Copilot or other digital solutions can help manage inboxes, though Copilot itself may not be the answer for this issue. There is a paid version of Microsoft Copilot that comes at a monthly cost.
Session: Technology Productivity of MPs
View All Questions -->
The north-east is a vital hub for clean energy supply chains, and my constituents in oil and gas want to be part of that transition, but years of under-investment by the Tories mean that many North sea ports cannot host modern turbine manufacturing. As the Government prepare their plan for the future of the north-east, will the Minister consider infrastructure investment to enable communities and workers in the north-east to better benefit from clean energy jobs?
Context
The north-east is a hub for clean energy supply chains but years of under-investment by the Tories have left many North sea ports unable to host modern turbine manufacturing.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Chris McDonald)
I recognise what my hon. Friend says about the importance of port infrastructure in the north-east. We made a manifesto commitment to support investment in our ports through the National Wealth Fund, and I would be happy to discuss with her how the north-east in particular could benefit from that.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Minister says that the Government are looking deeply into this issue, but as part of my Committee’s inquiry into misinformation and algorithms, we heard conflicting evidence from Ministers and Ofcom as to whether generative artificial intelligence is covered by the Online Safety Act. The Government have refused to implement our call for legislation to bring generative AI under the same categorisation as other high-risk services. Under what circumstances is chatbot advice covered by the Online Safety Act, and will there be enforcement?
Context
The Committee's inquiry into misinformation and algorithms found conflicting evidence about whether generative AI is covered by the Online Safety Act. There is a call for legislation to bring generative AI under the same category as other high-risk services.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Kanishka Narayan)
I thank my hon. Friend, both for the point she makes and for her ongoing insight and expertise on these questions. Let me be very clear about the current scope: chatbots that involve live search and user-to-user engagement are in scope of the Online Safety Act, as I mentioned. We are continuing to review its scope, and the Secretary of State has commissioned work. We will report its findings to the House.
Session: Online Safety
View All Questions -->
Under 14 years of Tory misrule, workers in the north-east saw their average annual earnings fall, causing a cost of living crisis for families across the region. We have fantastic, passionate and productive workers. Will the Minister promise to continue to turn back on Tory failure by investing in the industry of the north-east to deliver high-wage, high-quality jobs as part of a Budget for working people?
Context
Workers in the north-east have experienced a fall in average annual earnings under Conservative rule, leading to a cost of living crisis. The area is home to passionate and productive workers who need investment in industry for high-wage jobs.
James Murray (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
My hon. Friend is right to draw attention to the Conservatives’ record in office, and she is right that in her constituency there are fantastic, passionate and productive workers who need a Government—which they now have—who will invest in good jobs and skills, and who will put workers’ rights on a better footing than they were when we took over from the previous Government. At the Budget, the Chancellor will be led by the Government’s commitment to fairness, and she will be focused on protecting our NHS, reducing the national debt and improving the cost of living.
Session: Incomes of Working Families Newcastle
View All Questions -->
I thank the outgoing ministerial team for their engagement as I congratulate the new team on succeeding to this important and inspiring brief. The Government are committed to transforming public services through the adoption of new technologies. At the June spending review, Departments published their plans to deploy technologies to achieve efficiencies, but we are yet to see the detailed and fully funded road map for delivery promised by DSIT for this summer. Will the Secretary of State commit to publishing a road map that sets out what will be delivered, who will deliver it and by when, and how much it will cost, before her appearance before my Committee as part of our digital centre of government inquiry in November?
Context
The MP congratulates the new team on their important role. She inquires about a detailed road map for deploying technologies to achieve efficiencies as promised by DSIT.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Liz Kendall)
I have a feeling that will be one of the gentler questions that my hon. Friend asks me over the coming months. I am a passionate public service reformer and I believe there is huge potential for technology and AI to deliver better outcomes for the people who use services and better value for taxpayers’ money. I will definitely provide her with more detail on the questions that she asked, but let me give a fantastic example from my previous role. In our jobcentres in Wales, there were big queues for work coaches who were helping people do their CVs. They used AI, and it was better for the people who used the service and freed up the work coaches to spend time with the people who most needed help. That is a small example; we have to do more, and I will absolutely commit to setting out our further plans.
Session: New Technologies in the Workplace
View All Questions -->
The Select Committee report on social media algorithms raised concerns that US trade negotiations might prevent UK from responding to recommendations. Can the Minister reassure us that this is not true?
Context
Concerns about social media companies being held accountable due to ongoing US trade talks.
Jonathan Reynolds
I can reassure my hon. Friend that decisions on social media regulation remain within the UK Government and Parliament’s jurisdiction, despite speculation during trade negotiations.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Artificial intelligence is prevalent in both the workplace and schools. How are we ensuring that AI tools used in our education system support learning that fosters productive use of these technologies, alongside developing the unique potential of each individual student? Furthermore, what advice has been given to the Department for Education regarding the procurement of edtech tools, considering some are free while others require payment?
Context
The MP highlighted the need to prepare students for an AI-driven world while preserving their unique human potential.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Feryal Clark)
We work closely with the Department for Education to ensure that AI tools are used safely and effectively in schools. Earlier this year, we launched safe standards for the sector and provided guidance on developing AI tools for education. The DFE has also issued guidance on how to use these tools safely in schools.
Session: Artificial Intelligence Schools
View All Questions -->
Residents in Westerhope told me how nuisance vehicles are making their lives miserable, and I have had similar complaints from residents in Slatyford and Newbiggin. Given that police forces are already working hard but need more enforcement powers, will the Minister set out how her new proposals under the Crime and Policing Bill will improve this situation?
Context
Residents in Newcastle reported concerns about nuisance vehicles such as illegal e-bikes, off-road bikes, and speeding cars. The chief constable of Northumbria noted the force has already tripled impoundments over recent years.
The Minister for Policing and Crime Prevention (Dame Diana Johnson)
I welcome what my hon. Friend has said; this is a problem up and down the land. At the moment, police forces are doing their best, but the Crime and Policing Bill will allow them to seize vehicles that are being used in an antisocial way, without having to give any warnings, and then to destroy them. That is the way forward, but I pay tribute to the work that is already ongoing with police forces.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I really welcome the US-UK trade deal and the fact that the Secretary of State kept his commitment not to put online safety on the table in those negotiations. My Committee’s inquiry into social media misinformation and algorithms has heard evidence that these drive the spread of misinformation, with consequences seen in summer riots. Will he confirm that as well as not watering down existing regulations under the Online Safety Act, efforts will be made to strengthen it?
Context
The Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee welcomes the US-UK trade deal but highlights evidence from her committee that social media algorithms drive misinformation. She calls for further strengthening of online safety measures to protect against future risks.
Peter Kyle
I reassure my hon. Friend that we are looking closely at how to strengthen the online safety regime to protect children in the future, including research into the relationship between social media products and their impact on young people, with actions planned based on findings.
Session: UK-US Trade Agreement Digital Services Regulation
View All Questions -->
Does the Online Safety Act 2023 give Ofcom the powers to address these harms before they reach the threshold of illegality, and if so, how?
Context
The question was raised in the context of evolving vectors for violence against women and girls, highlighting how social media algorithms can drive misogynist and extremist views among young men and boys.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)
I thank my hon. Friend in particular for the work she is doing on behalf of her Select Committee. It is incredibly important that we act in these areas. The powers that came in last week to take down illegal content, but also the powers that are coming in later this year in June, will mean that all those publishing content must make sure it is age-appropriate. That will be a step forward.
Session: Technology-enabled VAWG
View All Questions -->
Since the Hamas atrocities of 7 October, tens of thousands of Gazans have been killed by Israeli forces, and hundreds of thousands more have been subject to unimaginable suffering. It is essential that their stories be told and it is unacceptable that the BBC should have chosen to tell them through those connected to Hamas. We understand that the BBC is not allowed into Gaza, so will the Secretary of State confirm where this programme was subcontracted and to whom? On the issue of translation, does the BBC not have a translation guide? Is that publicly available? If not, should it be? Finally, when Israeli Ministers and others call for the ethnic cleansing of Gaza or for the elimination of the Palestinian people, surely that must be reported in a way that highlights that that is illegal and the cause of immense distress to many in this country?
Context
Following concerns about a BBC documentary's portrayal of events in Gaza, the MP raises specific issues related to subcontracting, translation standards, and reporting on illegal statements.
Lisa Nandy
My hon. Friend speaks powerfully about the careful use of language and the way in which we all have a responsibility to uphold the highest standards on that. On her specific question, having had discussions with the BBC, I can confirm that this was not a BBC programme; it was commissioned by an external organisation. That in no way absolves the BBC from the responsibility to undertake due diligence on a programme that it airs. When it is aired by our national broadcaster, it is granted the legitimacy of our national broadcaster, and that is why these standards matter. I will take away her suggestion about a publicly available translation guide, which might help to assuage some of the concerns raised by the hon. Member for Mid Buckinghamshire (Greg Smith), and discuss that with the BBC.
Session: Gaza BBC Coverage
View All Questions -->
Newcastle’s beautiful cathedral is an important part of our economic life, as well as our cultural and religious life, but it receives very little funding from the Church of England and does not benefit from any significant endowments or property ownership, unlike other cathedrals. With 80% of England’s cathedrals predicted to post budget deficits, what discussions has the Second Church Estates Commissioner had with the Church of England regarding the financial sustainability of cathedrals?
Context
With 80% of England’s cathedrals predicted to post budget deficits, the questioner raises concerns about the financial sustainability of cathedrals.
Marsha De Cordova (Second Church Estates Commissioner)
As I say, the Church of England meets regularly to look at the impact of costs on cathedrals, and I am happy to write to my hon. Friend about the issue.
Session: Cathedrals Local Economic Contribution
View All Questions -->
What was the reason for the Government’s failure to sign the Paris AI summit declaration, given concerns about progress on global governance and national security?
Context
The MP inquires about the Government's decision not to sign the Paris AI summit declaration, which aimed at ensuring that AI is open, inclusive, transparent, ethical, safe, secure, and trustworthy.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)
We signed this week the joint coalition for sustainable AI, which is launching this summer; we joined an initial group of countries and multilateral organisations on collaborative network of AI observatories on work; we co-sealed a statement on cyber-security with France that launched this week; and we signed a statement on AI and gender as part of global partnership. A lot was achieved this week, but the national interest is always our priority.
Session: Improving Access to Public Services
View All Questions -->
My living wage intern starts next week, just as a Sutton Trust report shows that internships are critical entry points to careers, but that working-class graduates are 20% less likely to complete an internship than their wealthier peers and most internships are never advertised. What is my right hon. Friend doing to ensure that career success is based on hard work and talent, not parents’ social networks?
Context
The Sutton Trust report indicates that working-class graduates are less likely to complete internships than their wealthier peers, leading to a barrier in career success.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
I agree with my hon. Friend that no young person should be held back by their background or expected to work for free. We remain committed to banning unpaid internships, so that young people are paid fairly. We will set out further details in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I pay tribute to my ecclesiastical co-worker, the Right Reverend Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Newcastle, for her leadership and courage in championing the voices of victims in the wake of the Makin review. Are the Church Commissioners aware of her ongoing concerns about the implementation of the review? In particular, what can they do to ensure that dioceses have the resources necessary to implement a high standard of safeguarding?
Context
The Bishop of Newcastle, Helen-Ann Hartley, has been championing the voices of victims following the publication of the Makin report.
Marsha De Cordova
My hon. Friend rightly raises the work that her own bishop has been doing in her constituency on this issue. The Church’s national safeguarding team is now at stage three of its four-stage process to assess and deal with the risk posed by those criticised in the Makin review, which is rightly welcomed. In addition, the Church institutions have developed the two model proposals on safeguarding, which will go to the Synod in February.
Session: Makin Review
View All Questions -->
Last month, the Select Committee brought festive cheer by hearing how British science is advancing the eradication of diseases such as cervical cancer, HIV/AIDS and malaria, through innovative and exciting new treatments and diagnostics. We also heard about the challenges of driving innovation through the NHS. Newcastle company AMLo Biosciences said that adoption is much quicker in the US, and others criticised bureaucratic procurement processes and a culture of inertia. Successive Governments have struggled with this challenge, so what specific steps is the Secretary of State taking with the Health Secretary to ensure that British patients benefit from innovation?
Context
The MP highlighted the challenges of driving innovation through the NHS, citing examples from Newcastle company AMLo Biosciences about adoption being much quicker in the US.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)
I am grateful for that question and for the work that my hon. Friend’s Committee is doing to highlight the incredibly important challenge that we face as a Government and a country. For the first time, the Health Secretary has adopted the spreading of innovation through the NHS as a personal mission as part of the role of the Secretary of State, and we co-chair the Office for Life Sciences. Together, our two Departments are not only seeking to harness the power of technology, but working together, under the leadership of the Health Secretary, to drive that innovation.
Session: NHS Diagnostic Processes Technological Innovation
View All Questions -->
Last week, research published by Sage showed that 84% of small businesses in the north-east plan to increase their investment in technology next year. As the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee launches its inquiry into innovation, growth and the regions, how will the Business Secretary ensure that the industrial strategy boosts adoption of technology—particularly British-developed technology—to boost growth across all our regions?
Context
A recent study showed that many small businesses in the north-east plan to increase their investment in technology next year. The Science, Innovation and Technology Committee is launching an inquiry into innovation, growth, and regions.
Gareth Thomas
My hon. Friend will be aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer recently announced £20.4 billion in investment for research and development for the next year, which will help to drive even more of the type of technological investment that she rightly champions.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I am concerned that an uplift to the funding announced under the previous Government for the restoration of the Tyne Bridge has not materialised. Inflation and issues uncovered during the project have led to a rise in costs. Could you confirm if the difficult decisions this Government has made mean that the uplift in funding will be available for the fully restored Tyne bridge?
Context
The restoration project is crucial for the iconic bridge's centenary in 2028, but there are concerns about funding due to inflation and additional costs.
Lilian Greenwood
This Government's manifesto was clear that we want to forge ahead with infrastructure improvements as part of our mission to kick-start economic growth. As with all schemes in the major road network programme, the Department's contribution is fixed once the scheme is approved, and Newcastle city council was awarded over £35 million towards the total cost of the scheme.
Session: Tyne Bridge Restoration
View All Questions -->
I am concerned that an uplift to the funding announced under the previous Government for the restoration of the Tyne Bridge has not materialised. Inflation and issues uncovered during the project have led to a rise in costs. Could you confirm if the difficult decisions this Government has made mean that the uplift in funding will be available for the fully restored Tyne bridge?
Context
The restoration project is crucial for the iconic bridge's centenary in 2028, but there are concerns about funding due to inflation and additional costs.
Lilian Greenwood
This Government's manifesto was clear that we want to forge ahead with infrastructure improvements as part of our mission to kick-start economic growth. As with all schemes in the major road network programme, the Department's contribution is fixed once the scheme is approved, and Newcastle city council was awarded over £35 million towards the total cost of the scheme.
Session: Tyne Bridge Restoration
View All Questions -->
My hon. Friend the Member for Folkestone and Hythe (Tony Vaughan) rightly raises the need for research into frontier AI safety, and I welcome the Government's commitment to protecting the public from future AI risks. But AI affects all of our lives already. Today, my Committee launches an inquiry into algorithms, AI and their role in spreading online harm, as we saw in the terrible riots over the summer. As we build our evidence, how is the Minister building the evidence base on AI online harms and their social impact right now?
Context
The question stems from the need to understand how AI is currently affecting society, particularly in terms of spreading online harm.
Peter Kyle
I am extremely grateful to the Chair of the Select Committee for choosing this as her first inquiry. It is an incredibly important area. This Government are committed to the algorithmic transparency recording standard. The previous Government reneged on their commitment to having individual Departments releasing their standard statement each year. This Government are committing to doing so again and will remain committed to reinforcing the fact that algorithms are there to serve people and not the other way round.
Session: Frontier AI Safety
View All Questions -->
Will he say whether he intends to maintain that target, and/or what steps he will take to ensure that funding is available to drive regional growth and innovation?
Context
The last Government committed to increasing R&D spend outside of the greater south-east by 40% by 2030.
Peter Kyle
This Government are committed to working with local and regional mayors to ensure that local growth plans and the partnerships with UKRI will benefit all regions. These include a £100 million innovation accelerator pilot and £80 million in launchpad programmes.
Session: Research and Development
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Technology Sovereignty
10 March 2026
Responding: Kanishka Narayan
Main Concerns
['The UK faces global insecurity, technological revolutions in data and AI, geopolitical restructuring, and a green industrial revolution, leading to fears about big tech control and techno-feudalism. The country lacks clear definitions and control over digital sovereignty, with concerns over dependencies on foreign cloud services, AI companies, and data governance. There is a risk of the UK being dependent on foreign companies for critical services and data, undermining sovereignty and security.']
Specific Asks
["The government should define and clarify digital sovereignty, ensure procurement decisions are made to support sovereignty, and collaborate with allies to build a secure and ethical technology market. The Minister should explain the UK's aims for technological leadership and control in specific areas such as AI, quantum, space, and bioengineering."]
Robert Stephenson and Company: 200th Anniversary
05 July 2023
Responding: Huw Merriman
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the lack of Government support for celebrating the bicentenary year of Robert Stephenson and Company. The factory was a key enabler of the industrial revolution, transforming lives around the world. Despite this significance, the bicentenary passed without official recognition from the government. I worry that there is no clear plan to commemorate the works site or recognize the north-east's industrial heritage, which includes iconic structures like Newcastle's swing bridge and significant contributions to global railway engineering."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Government to outline their plans for celebrating and commemorating the bicentenary year of Robert Stephenson and Company. I also want to understand what steps they will take to recognize and preserve our industrial heritage, particularly in the north-east, and how they plan to inspire young people to engage with STEM fields through these celebrations.']
Hadrian’s Wall: Newcastle’s West End
01 February 2022
Responding: Nigel Huddleston
Main Concerns
["Chi Onwurah is concerned about the neglect of Hadrian's Wall in Newcastle's west end. She points out that while many tourists are directed away from the wall by National Trails and other tours, significant traces of the wall remain in her constituency, including parts discovered during routine drain maintenance last year. The area around the wall is economically deprived with high levels of multiple deprivation and litter problems. Onwurah also highlights historical diversity within Benwell, which she compares to today's multicultural community along West Road. The hon. Member for Newcastle upon Tyne Central is concerned about the accurate representation of Hadrian's Wall and its route, especially in the west end of Newcastle. She highlighted the importance of educational benefits derived from the wall and mentioned the celebration of the wall's 1,900th year with a focus on local communities."]
Specific Asks
["Onwurah asks the Minister to ensure that his Department will not fund or support activities that do not recognise Hadrian's Wall's real route through Newcastle's west end. She requests collaboration with cultural bodies and the Department for Education to promote educational materials about Roman Newcastle and its parallels with contemporary Newcastle. Additionally, she seeks the education of trail partnership on historical accuracy and funding for archaeological investigations into the wall's route in Elswick and Westgate Roads. The hon. Member for Newcastle upon Tyne Central asks for a rerouting of the Hadrian's Wall path to follow the actual route more closely, particularly in Newcastle's west end and other areas. She also seeks better signage along the wall through funding from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal."]
Tyne Bridge: Celebrating 100 Years — [Sir Roger Gale in the Chair]
23 June 2021
Responding: Eddie Hughes
Main Concerns
["The Tyne bridge, a symbol of the north-east's engineering prowess and culture, is facing disrepair. It has not received proper maintenance since its last full paint job in 2000, with concerns about safety checks, repairs, preservation, and upkeep being overdue. The lack of recent significant celebrations for the bridge, compared to similar iconic structures like the Sydney Harbour bridge, highlights a potential neglect by the Government towards the region."]
Specific Asks
["The lead MP requests that the Minister support the £18.5 million needed from the levelling up fund for the Tyne bridge's refurbishment and celebration in 2028. She also asks how the Minister will ensure local communities benefit and if he will work with other Departments to celebrate engineering stories, particularly those of women engineers like Dorothy Buchanan."]
Education and Skills Reform
09 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Personal Data (Digital Twins)
09 September 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Moves to introduce a Bill that would require explicit consent before digital twins of individuals can be made. The Bill aims to regulate software or algorithms that use or hold personal data for model...
National Energy System Operator: Blackout Risk
15 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Timms Review: Interim Report
09 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Science Diplomacy
09 July 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
The UK's scientific strengths are in the premier league but its science diplomacy is not clear. The report highlights three main issues: failing to adapt to geopolitics, lack of overarching strategy, ...
Backbench Business
09 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mohamed argues that successive British Governments have acknowledged the illegality and harmful effects of Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories but have failed to take decisive ...
Defence Investment Plan
30 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Grooming Gangs: Independent Inquiry
18 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Regional Innovation and Growth
18 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
The Bill Name (not specified in the provided text) - Schedule 1 - Enforcement and Appeals
16 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. The speaker is moving for the second reading of Schedule 1 which focuses on enforcement measures and appeals processes in the bill.
Newcastle United Carabao Cup Win
20 May 2025
Newcastle United Football Club has won the Carabao Cup, marking its first major trophy win since 1955. The petitioners wish to celebrate this achievement and propose a national award for such sporting...
View Full Petition -->
Newcastle United Carabao Cup Win
24 March 2025
The petition addresses the lack of a formal way for Newcastle United fans to recognise and celebrate the club’s recent Carabao Cup win, which is the first major trophy since 1955.
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
79.6%
78 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
28
28.6% of votes
No Votes
50
51.0% of votes
Abstentions
20
20.4% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
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
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
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: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
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
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
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
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
6
PMQs Asked
198
Ministerial Questions Asked
320
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
5
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+1377% above average
This MP:
198
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+6485% above average
This MP:
320
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-47% below average
This MP:
5
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-18% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+15% above average
This MP:
79.6
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Chi Onwurah's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.