Chris Bryant
MP for Rhondda and Ogmore
Lab
7 Jun 2001 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
What is worse: losing WhatsApp messages as a tech bro, losing £11.8 billion to fraud as Chancellor, presiding over the biggest fall in living standards in our history, or desperately clinging on to power when you have become even more unpopular than Boris Johnson?
Context
The government has faced significant criticism for losing billions to fraud, falling living standards, and becoming even more unpopular than Boris Johnson.
Rishi Sunak
What matters to me is delivering for the British people, and that is exactly what we are doing.
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister has had responsibility for the UK economy now for 1,323 days, and he has delivered—the largest national peacetime debt ever, the largest tax burden since the second world war, the highest core inflation since 1991, the fastest interest rate rises since 1989 and the biggest fall in living standards in our history. Will he stop lecturing my constituents about holding their nerve, ditch the lame excuses and admit that he is literally the worst person to be leading this country through a cost of living crisis, because he created it?
Context
The Prime Minister has been in charge of the UK economy for over three years, during which time national debt, tax burden, inflation, interest rates, and living standards have worsened.
Rishi Sunak
Again, what do we hear from the Labour party? Only ideas that would make the situation far worse. The hon. Gentleman has sat there and supported plans to borrow tens of billions of pounds more. That would make inflation worse. He has sat there and said that we should not stand up to unaffordable union pay demands. That would make the situation worse. And he has sat there and supported plans to not exploit our domestic sources of energy, imperilling our energy security.
Assessment
Acknowledging responsibility for economic issues
Attacking Labour'S Policies
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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I do not know whether the Deputy Prime Minister ever met Lily Savage or whether he has ever spent a night out at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern. I can take him sometime if he wants to go—[Interruption.] I think that was a yes, actually. Paul O'Grady campaigned acerbically and hilariously for elderly people and care workers and against oppression of every kind.
Context
Paul O'Grady, also known as Lily Savage, campaigned for elderly people and care workers during the AIDS crisis in 1987.
Dominic Raab
I thank the hon. Gentleman, and I totally agree with him. Paul O'Grady was an incredible comic, but he also broke glass ceilings and boundaries in a way that politicians would struggle to do. In terms of Lily Savage, some of that comedy broke glass ceilings and boundaries in a way that politicians would struggle to do, so I agree with the hon. Gentleman on that.
Session: PMQs
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How stupid does he think the British people are? The worst of it is that he has already managed to completely destroy Allegra Stratton's career and tarnished the reputation of Lord Geidt. Would it not be absolutely despicable if, in the search for a scapegoat, some junior member of staff ended up losing their job while he kept his?
Context
The Prime Minister's conduct at a social event has been scrutinised, leading to reputational damage for individuals involved and questioning of his integrity.
Boris Johnson
I am grateful, as ever, to the hon. Gentleman—I think a former member of the Conservative party, as I understand it—for his party political advice. I do not agree with him. I have come to this House to make amends, to explain what happened on 20 May and to apologise.
Assessment
Did not address why only one person has resigned; instead defended himself against criticism.
Deflecting Onto Party Political Advice
Session: PMQs
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Nikki's seven-year-old son had 37 seizures a day because of a brain disease he suffered from. He has had surgery now, but it is a struggle every day to get him to stay in school. Nikki is supporting the Acquired Brain Injury Bill because she believes that the Government need a cross-departmental strategy for supporting those who have an acquired brain injury, whether that is rugby players with concussion and dementia, women who have been beaten in the head by their partners, children who have suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning, or soldiers who have been in explosions. I really hope that the Government are going to back the Acquired Brain Injury Bill, but above all we need a strategy to help 1.4 million people in this country. Will the Prime Minister give us that?
Context
Nikki's seven-year-old son had 37 seizures a day due to a brain disease, which improved after surgery but continues to struggle. The questioner supports the Acquired Brain Injury Bill for a cross-departmental strategy on acquired brain injuries.
Boris Johnson
I thank the hon. Member for raising this vital issue and for his personal commitment to this cause. I can assure him that we are studying his proposed Bill and working to ensure that people do get support for the acquired brain injuries that they have received. What we can certainly pledge at this stage—I hope this will be of some use to him and the many who care about this issue in the way that he does, as I am sure Members do across the House—is that the Department of Health and Social Care will lead on the development of a cross-departmental Government strategy on acquired brain injury and other neurological conditions. I will be very happy to share details with him shortly.
Assessment
The specific ask was not directly answered, instead providing general assurances without firm commitments or timelines.
Session: PMQs
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By the time my wonderful friend Lynda went to the doctor, the cancer was already so advanced that she had only a few weeks to live. Many hon. Members have been through cancer and they know well that early detection saves lives. Unfortunately, of course, long waiting lists will make it more difficult to save lives. The real problem we have is a massive shortage, in the thousands, in the number of pathologists and radiologists to catch the cancers in the first place, and a massive shortage of oncologists and dermatologists to do the treatment. So regardless of the money, how are we are going to make sure that we have the personnel, not in five or seven years' time, but now, to be able to save lives?
Context
A constituent of the MP passed away due to cancer that was detected too late, highlighting the problem with long waiting lists.
Boris Johnson
First, I want to say how sad I am to hear about the hon. Gentleman's constituent Lynda. I think her experiences have been shared by literally millions of people in this country during the pandemic, because they have not been willing or able to get the oncology treatment that they need because of the pressure of covid on the system. The system is now coming back, trying to help everybody as fast as possible to fix the backlogs. So yes, it is necessary to hire more nurses and doctors, and there about 10,000 more nurses now and about 6,000 more doctors—
Session: PMQs
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The reputation of Torbay's iconic tourism sector has been badly hit by recent events relating to local water supplies. What discussions has the Minister had with colleagues in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs about ensuring that support is provided and paid for by South West Water to compensate for that?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of recent water supply issues on the local tourism industry.
Julia Lopez
I know that the Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my hon. Friend the Member for Keighley (Robbie Moore), whom I met earlier this week, is very engaged in this issue, and our stakeholders in the south-west and Visit England are looking into any necessary information that they can give to tourists. They will continue to keep that under review, but I empathise deeply with local businesses, particularly tourism businesses, and residents.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is it not time that we had a strong word to make sure that people who are being called for appointments get a chance to turn up, because they have actually received their letter on time?
Context
Patients are receiving appointment letters after the scheduled date, affecting their ability to attend.
Fay Jones
The hon. Gentleman makes a good point and one that I will certainly investigate with colleagues, but the problem lies with the mismanagement of the Welsh NHS.
Session: NHS Waiting Times
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The trade envoy programme is opaque. The Minister previously refused to deny that a trade envoy has requested exclusive use of a house while on duty. There are also refusals to publish detailed costs for the envoys, which contrasts with how expenses are handled in official visits abroad like those by Select Committees. How can we judge if £750,000 spent over three years is justified? Is there any accountability or does this serve as sinecures?
Context
There are concerns about the transparency and accountability regarding the costs and activities of the UK's parliamentary trade envoys, particularly whether these expenses have been well-spent and who benefits from such roles.
Greg Hands
The hon. Gentleman's comments reflect a lot of bluster and accusations. The cross-party role requires diplomacy and discretion, which explains why not everyone is asked to take part. Gifts and hospitality are published in departmental registers, indicating transparency where appropriate.
Session: Parliamentary Trade Envoys
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What are the travel costs of parliamentary trade envoys in each of the last three years?
Context
No specific incident prompted this question; it inquires about the financial transparency of the UK's trade envoy programme.
Greg Hands
The travel costs incurred by the Prime Minister's trade envoys were: £63,566 for the financial year 2021-22; £226,014 for 2022-23; and £232,325 for 2023-24. These costs were for flights, accommodation when the official British residence was unavailable, and other sundry expenses.
Session: Parliamentary Trade Envoys
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Has the Minister or any other Foreign Office Minister had an opportunity to raise this issue directly with the Chinese ambassador?
Context
Jimmy Lai, a British citizen, faces prosecution in Hong Kong.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
I have raised this issue with the ambassador, and was able to raise it last week when I was in Beijing with my Foreign Minister counterpart.
Session: Jimmy Lai
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I am grateful to the Minister for that reply. He speaks about increased funding, but there is growing anger from headteachers and parents alike in Bournemouth about the mismanagement of the dedicated schools grant over the past couple of years by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council. School heads have now taken the unprecedented step of writing open letters of concern to the council. The council is not following the required guidance and is demanding unaffordable sums from schools which, if implemented, would see the loss of teaching assistants. I ask the Department for Education to investigate the council's decision making, to ensure that correct guidelines are followed in the future and that the right levels of funding stay with the schools.
Context
The MP notes the increase in funding but expresses concern over its effective use by BCP Council, highlighting significant dissatisfaction among headteachers and parents regarding recent management of dedicated school grants.
David Johnston
My right hon. Friend has done an excellent job of raising with me repeatedly the frustration of parents and headteachers in his constituency with BCP Council. I and officials continue to monitor that closely to ensure that schools and children in his area get the provision they deserve.
Session: SEND Provision Bournemouth
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This is a very simple question to the Deputy Prime Minister: does the Foreign Secretary stand recused in any aspect of his job by virtue of his financial interests, either now or before he was appointed to his post—yes or no?
Context
There are concerns about the Foreign Secretary's financial interests as they relate to ministerial code compliance.
Oliver Dowden
The Labour party keep on pushing on this point, but I refer the hon. Gentleman to the latest list of ministerial interests, which was published in December and provides details of Minister's interests, including those of the Foreign Secretary, that are judged by the independent adviser to be relevant, or could be perceived to be relevant, to their ministerial roles. All of it is there in the public domain.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why are details of the Foreign Secretary's financial interests and recusals from job elements due to previous involvement with the Chinese state not published?
Context
Concerns over transparency regarding the financial interests of the Foreign Secretary before his appointment to the House of Lords.
John Glen
According to the advice of the Independent Adviser on Ministers' Interests, last published on 14 December 2023, following a previous publication on 17 July which updated advice issued on 19 April, the process of ministerial engagement with the register is ongoing and is updated on an ongoing basis. When Ministers are appointed, they fill in an extensive form which their permanent secretaries then review, and there is a continuous process of updating that as interests evolve.
Session: Ministerial Code
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What recent assessment has been made of trends in the level of compliance with the ministerial code?
Context
The question arises from concerns over compliance with the ministerial code.
John Glen
The Prime Minister is responsible for the ministerial code, and is the ultimate judge of the standards of behaviour expected of Ministers, which are set out in that code. All Ministers are expected to uphold the principles of the code, as the Prime Minister has made clear.
Session: Ministerial Code
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Mr Speaker, I know you know that there could not possibly be a better project to receive funding from the Government than the Rhondda tunnel, which would connect Blaencwm and Blaengwynfi—I am very happy to dangle all the Ministers down the hole and into the tunnel, if they ever want to come and see it. I know the Secretary of State knows all about it, because I had two meetings with him about it several years ago. I have met lots of Ministers who have privately been very supportive and told me to apply for this, that or the other fund, but not a single penny has yet transpired. An official has recently told Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council that it should make a specific exemption for an application for money. Is that still a possibility, to ensure that the Rhondda tunnel comes to pass?
Context
The MP asks about the funding possibilities for the Rhondda tunnel project.
Jacob Young
I do not think that the community ownership fund is the appropriate fund. As I have just said to the hon. Member for Leyton and Wanstead (John Cryer), the community ownership fund is open to charities, to community groups and to town and parish councils, but with regard to the hon. Gentleman's tunnel project, I would be more than happy to meet him and identify what funding opportunities are available.
Session: Community Ownership Fund
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Why are we only ever told about things that happened years ago? If we are to take these issues seriously, we surely have to have an up-to-date and present account of the activities of the Chinese state.
Context
The questioner criticises the government for not providing up-to-date information on Chinese state activities affecting parliament.
Thomas Tugendhat
When there is a reason to act quickly, we do. As was the case with Christine Lee, where payment of money to a certain Member of this House was involved, exposing it fast was necessary.
Session: Security Threat from China
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Do we have enough crematoriums in the UK given that many families must wait weeks for a slot? Why is there such a disparity between the cheapest and most expensive crematorium charges?
Context
Families are waiting weeks for funeral slots, with crematorium fees ranging from £408 to £1,400.
Mike Freer
Challenges facing crematoriums, burial space, and the whole funeral sector are being reviewed by the Law Commission. The commission is investigating and bringing forward proposals.
Session: Topical Questions
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May I return the Secretary of State to the issue of the Rhondda tunnel? The Chancellor doled out bits and pieces of money but did not allocate any for the Rhondda tunnel. So where should we now apply for money for the Rhondda tunnel?
Context
The Chancellor distributed funding to constituencies, excluding the Rhondda tunnel project.
David Davies
There have been three rounds of levelling-up funding, with growth deals across every constituency in Wales. There are special projects being backed in areas such as Newport and an investment zone and a freeport in Port Talbot. Constituencies the length and breadth of Wales have benefited from many projects this Government has put forward.
Session: Budget 2024 Businesses in Wales
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How many people were treated for acquired brain injury last year?
Context
No background provided, direct ask for statistics.
Andrew Stephenson
The hon. Gentleman has caught me off guard—I will write to him. I am keen to continue working with him on that issue. As he knows, we have already shared draft details of the acquired brain injury strategy with him and members of the all-party parliamentary group, and I am very keen to continue working collaboratively on that issue with him.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is one of the great successes of the past few years that we now save the lives of a lot more people with an acquired brain injury. Although we might save them in acute and emergency care, however, a national strategy for acquired brain injury is a really important part of ensuring that people have the proper care thereafter. The Government appointed me and the Minister for Health and Secondary Care, the right hon. Member for Pendle (Andrew Stephenson)—he is just passing the hon. Lady a note to inspire her on the subject—to try to publish one. When does she hope that there will be money available to ensure that that strategy is one worth having?
Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of a national strategy for acquired brain injury, despite improvements in acute care.
Helen Whately
I know that the hon. Gentleman is a great campaigner on this issue; he has worked very hard on it with me in the past, and he now does so with my right hon. Friend the Minister for Health and Secondary Care. I assure him that we are in the process of revising the draft strategy, taking on board feedback from patients, their families, charities and the NHS, and we will publish the strategy in due course.
Session: Urgent and Emergency Care
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The Government's answer was dismissive, ignoring the need to protect creators. Last June, the Secretary of State said that if the code of practice was not achieved, legislation could be considered. When will this plan be implemented?
Context
The MP criticises the Government's response to a previous statement about considering legislation if a code of practice on AI and IP could not be achieved.
Lucy Frazer
The Labour party has no plan, which is unacceptable. We have worked with sectors and set out steps in our White Paper on transparency and will continue to work on all areas.
Session: AI Creative Industries
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Some 4.8 million people live in rural 5G notspots; rural areas are seven times more likely to have broadband speeds worse than those at base camp at Everest; one in five poorer homes have no internet to the home at all; and cardiac arrest phones and medical monitors still rely on analogue telephony. Why are this Government such an abject failure?
Context
The MP is critical of the government for poor performance in providing adequate broadband infrastructure.
Julia Lopez
I know that the hon. Gentleman loves to stick the boot in, but he has chosen the wrong subject here. In 2019, there was 6% gigabit coverage, whereas the figure now is 80%. This is a massive infrastructure project, and it is one of the biggest successes that we have, so he has chosen the wrong thing to be snipey about.
Session: Rural Connectivity
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Some 1.4 million people in the UK are living with a brain injury. Will the Minister make sure that the final version of the plan lays out precisely what the Government intend to do in relation to people who have had a brain injury? The good news is that with really good neurorehabilitation, people can be given back not just their life, but a real quality of life. We owe that to them, don't we?
Context
Approximately 1.4 million people in the UK are living with a brain injury, requiring specific support.
Mims Davies
I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising that issue. My father lived with a brain injury for over 25 years, and my annual Christmas card this year comes from Headway Sussex through its art therapy work, so I assure him that at the DWP, I think about the impacts of brain injury on a daily basis.
Session: Disability Action Plan
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Given the high number of executions within Iran, should we not take action to address their human rights violations?
Context
Over 400 people have been executed in Iran between January and July, with more since October. Recent executions include those of a child and protesters.
David Rutley
The hon. Member highlights an important point. We call out the repression of protests and continue to hold Iran accountable for its human rights record, including against women, girls, and children. A new sanctions regime will assist in these efforts.
Session: Iran
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We must ensure that Putin does not win. We must co-operate and help with the reconstruction of Ukraine. Is it not time that we started seizing Russian state assets to help pay for the reconstruction of Ukraine?
Context
Putin's regime continues to cause destruction in Ukraine, prompting a need for reconstruction.
Grant Shapps
A long time ago, when the war started, I was Transport Secretary. We seized quite a lot of yachts and aircraft, which have still not been released, to ensure that they did not benefit from their closeness to Putin. The hon. Gentleman is right that over time we must keep cranking up the different ways by which we ensure that money is not flowing to that regime, and we will continue to keep that under review.
Session: Topical Questions
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Kids who have had a brain injury often receive care at school initially, but may face cognitive problems later on, leading to poor attendance and behavioural issues. Can the Secretary of State commission specific work to provide protection and support for these children?
Context
The MP highlighted the challenges faced by children who have suffered significant brain injuries and need ongoing support.
Gillian Keegan
Of course we want all children to be helped to get into school; schools should make adjustments if children need them. I am sure that my right hon. Friend the Minister for Schools will be happy to meet him as well in order to understand further what more can be done.
Session: Pupil Absences
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Will the Secretary of State have conversations with HMRC and Treasury to protect the opportunities for the creative industries?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the impact of proposed business rate changes on the creative industries.
Michael Gove
Absolutely, we need to protect and enhance the role our creative industries play across the UK in levelling up.
Session: Levelling Up across the UK
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Our excellent, proactive Minister is no doubt testing out concepts ahead of the forthcoming White Paper. Does that include extending the severe conditions criteria so that people with conditions such as motor neurone disease can automatically access support without the need for an assessment?
Context
There is a proposal to extend the severe conditions criteria so that individuals with certain severe conditions, such as motor neurone disease, can automatically access support without needing an assessment.
Tom Pursglove
I am fortunate that my hon. Friend was one of my predecessors as Minister for Disabled People, as he is a tireless campaigner on these issues and has done much to take the agenda forward. On the severe disability group, we remain committed to this work. We have worked with an expert group of specialist health professionals to draw up a set of draft criteria. We have started initial testing at small scale, and we are looking to scale that up as we move forward, because we want to get this right and we think that this is a significant change.
Session: Personal Independence Payment Assessments
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I fully support the provision of all the munitions that we have been able to give to Ukraine. I hope we will be able to continue to do that for the foreseeable future, and certainly until Putin loses. It seems that quite often different allies of Ukraine are giving different kinds of bits and pieces of armament and munitions, and that that does not necessarily add up to more than the sum of its parts. Would it not be better if we now looked to the future by commissioning jointly, so that we get more matériel at cost directly through to Ukraine?
Context
Different allies provide different kinds of military support to Ukraine.
Ben Wallace
The hon. Gentleman makes a really important point. To better co-ordinate the gifting, at the beginning we set up the International Donor Co-ordination Centre, with about 80 British personnel in the lead, alongside the United States, to ensure that what Ukraine is asking for is what it gets and that it is co-ordinated across the international community, because we all have different armouries. In recognition of his very important point about how we develop and encourage a sustainable supply chain to Ukraine, Britain alongside Denmark set up the international fund for Ukraine. We committed £250 million last year and another £250 million this year, and it is topping up towards €1 billion-plus of funding. One specific task is to commission effectively from supply chains and manufacturing plants, so that there is a long-term solution to the need and munition is rolling off production lines.
Session: Ukraine Military Support
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With two thirds of people owning homes and many finding landlords are selling their properties, will the Government look closely at protecting those in need?
Context
Landlords selling properties due to tax decisions, leading to evictions.
John Glen
I am happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss what is happening in his constituency, including pressures since section 24 changes.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last year, the Russian Government introduced a new law that requires all businesses, including foreign businesses that have any footprint in the Russian Federation, to assist in the war in Ukraine. That means that any British businesses that are still doing business in Russia are complicit in the war crimes that Russia is perpetrating against the Ukrainian people. Will the Minister make it absolutely clear that all British businesses should completely and utterly desist from business in Russia immediately?
Context
A new Russian law requires all businesses, including foreign ones with a footprint in the country, to support the war effort. This raises concerns about British companies' complicity.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
One of the extraordinary things we saw only last year when the war broke out was the positive attitude of British businesses and their willingness to take financial pain immediately. They pulled themselves away, not only where we imposed sanctions and prohibitions but beyond that, from Russian markets and activity.
Session: Sanctions Russia and Belarus
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The figures on diagnosing people with cancer are certainly improving, but what is getting worse and has got significantly worse in the last three months is the starting of treatment for people who definitely have cancer. The figures are now the worst on record, with 19,000 people waiting for treatment, and all the evidence suggests that waiting another week adds 10% to the likelihood of death. Can I please urge the Minister not always to give the rosy, good statistics but to face up to the fact that there are real dangers in the statistics, too?
Context
The question was prompted by the increasing number of patients waiting for cancer treatment, with a record high of 19,000 people currently waiting. Previous reports indicate that an additional week's delay in starting treatment can increase the risk of death by 10%. The MP is concerned about the government's focus on positive statistics while neglecting these critical issues.
Steve Barclay
I know the hon. Gentleman takes a very close interest in this, and we can all see that there is a shared desire to meet the increasing demand. He recognises the progress on diagnostics. Nine in 10 patients are starting treatment within a month, and the all cancer survival index for England is steadily increasing, but I agree that there is much more still to do, which is why we are investing in diagnostic centres, surgical hubs and the long-term workforce plan. I am very happy to continue working with him and other colleagues as we meet this ongoing challenge.
Session: Cancer Waiting Times and Outcomes
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At the invitation of the Foreign Office in 2019, some visited the British Indian Ocean Territory and inspected naval and military installations. Why negotiate with Mauritius about sovereignty when it is essential for all British overseas territories to have self-determination? When will Chagossians get their say?
Context
The UK and Mauritius are negotiating sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory, including the Chagos archipelago. The right of self-determination is a key issue.
James Cleverly
We are pursuing negotiations in good faith. We consult with Chagossians despite no plans for referendum. The issues remain at heart of our thinking during talks.
Session: Chagos Islands Sovereignty
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A little birdy tells me that the Secretary of State has had a meeting about the Rhondda tunnel in the last few days. I hope very much—as no doubt do you, Mr Speaker—that there will be an announcement soon of some money to ensure that the Rhondda tunnel can be opened up, making it the second longest cycle tunnel in the whole of Europe and a great advert for tourism in the Welsh valleys. Will he meet me and my hon. Friend the Member for Aberavon (Stephen Kinnock) so that we can explain to him its significant benefits and he can lobby to get that money for the Rhondda tunnel?
Context
A meeting has been held regarding the Rhondda tunnel, which is expected to be a significant tourism attraction. The MP seeks a commitment for funding.
James Davies
The hon. Member is right to raise that question. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State tells me that he would be happy to hold a meeting with him, and adds that Rhondda Cynon Taf council should be encouraged to make a levelling-up fund bid.
Session: Spring Budget 2023 Welsh Communities
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Thank you, Mr Speaker, and thank you for the email announcing that the new Clerk of the House will be Tom Goldsmith. I am grateful to be the first to congratulate him.
Context
The question is prompted by an announcement from the Speaker regarding a new appointment.
Trudy Harrison
The hon. Gentleman raises a technical question and I will liaise with colleagues in the Department for Transport to respond to him via email.
Session: Rural Communities
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The Falklands are British and that is the end of the story. Santiago Cafiero is undoubtedly engaging in a bit of electioneering during a general election, and we should just—[Interruption.] Exactly as the Foreign Secretary just indicated, we should not be surprised when these things are said. Many of my constituents lost loved ones killed on the Sir Galahad in the defence of the Falklands many years ago and some of them are worried that some papers have not been published yet and will not be until 2065. They would like to see the full papers that were provided to the board of inquiry, so will the Minister investigate whether those can now be published?
Context
Some constituents are concerned about the delay in publishing full papers related to the board of inquiry into the Falklands War, particularly regarding the Sir Galahad incident.
David Rutley
I thank the hon. Gentleman for making those points in his original remarks. There are usual processes to go through, but I will take those points away and discuss them with the Minister for overseas territories.
Session: Argentina 2016 Joint Communiqué on the Falklands
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I am feeling very, very let down. I like at least two of the Government Ministers—
Context
The MP expressed disappointment with the Government's actions.
Huw Merriman
An invitation from the roads Minister to meet Wales team has been sent, aiming to improve expectations and relations.
Session: Topical Questions
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Vladimir Putin is the biggest criminal in Europe with the most blood on his hands. The government has frozen his Russian state assets; will the Home Secretary support my Bill tomorrow to seize those assets and give them to Ukraine?
Context
The question refers to Vladimir Putin's actions in Europe, the freezing of Russian state assets by the UK, and a proposed Bill to seize these assets for Ukraine.
Thomas Tugendhat
Going from freezing to seizing is a difficult procedure under our laws, due to rights people have. We have discussed this matter with partners in common law jurisdictions and will continue conversations on the subject.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why do we have to wait until May to know what Ministers' financial interests are? Only a few weeks ago, the Leader of the House promised that all Ministers would be held to the same timetable as other MPs. When is that going to happen?
Context
MPs must declare their financial interests within 28 days, but Ministers often delay this declaration. Previously promised to align Ministerial declarations with MPs.
Oliver Dowden
Ministers are required, under the ministerial code, to provide full declarations. We are taking steps to move to more rapid declarations of ministerial interests so that they align more closely with the declarations of Members of Parliament, and we are working through those processes.
Session: Topical Questions
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Two things have impacted on the mental health of veterans in the Rhondda. One is the complete collapse of the private rented sector, with many single men getting no protection under the law and finding it very difficult to find a guarantor so that they can get anywhere to live at all. The second thing is brain injuries. I hope that the Minister has seen the recent research showing that the percentage of people sleeping rough who are veterans—and, of those, the percentage who have brain injuries—is phenomenally high. What can we do to ensure that those elements are sorted so that people who have done everything they can for our nation get the support that they need?
Context
The questioner discusses the impact of private rented sector collapse and brain injuries on veteran mental health, citing high percentages among those sleeping rough.
Johnny Mercer
I recognise the link with traumatic brain injury. A lot of work is going into understanding how that affects this generation of veterans, who have come out of Afghanistan and Iraq, in particular. That work is ongoing, and I am more than happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to update him on it.
Session: Veterans Mental Health Support
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When will the Secretary of State sort out the Rhondda tunnel funding? When can I bring him down my hole so he can see it?
Context
The Rhondda tunnel is in need of money for its development, prompting a request for the Secretary of State to visit.
Mark Harper
This is my first opportunity to congratulate the hon. Gentleman on his recently announced honour in the new year's honours list for long service in this House. He has raised this specific question on the tunnel with me before; either I or the rail Minister, my hon. Friend Huw Merriman, will meet him to look at what we can do to bring that forward.
Session: Topical Questions
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That is all very well, but the Government have basically completely binned their investment zone policy. I have had a letter from a Government Minister saying that it is all being refocused and is not about housing and planning any more but about productivity, improving growth and job creation. But no details are available, and all the bids have been binned. Is that not further evidence that we do not have a Government in this country anymore, just a bunch of rapscallions squatting in ministerial offices?
Context
The MP criticises the government's approach to investment zones, arguing that no details are available and all existing bids have been cancelled.
James Davies
I cannot agree with the hon. Gentleman. As he will know, many elements of the policy are devolved in Wales. Therefore, discussions continue with the Welsh Government on those aspects. I would highlight that there are 5,400 similar zones in other parts of the world. We must deliver growth for Britain in a similar fashion.
Session: Investment Zones
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What recent discussions he has had with the Welsh Government on the proposed refocusing of investment zone policy. I have had a letter from a Government Minister saying that it is all being refocused and is not about housing and planning any more but about productivity, improving growth and job creation. But no details are available, and all the bids have been binned.
Context
The MP notes the proposed refocusing of investment zone policy by the government, which has led to the cancellation of existing bids without clear details or timelines.
James Davies
We remain committed to working with the Welsh Government on the delivery of investment zones for Wales. That is alongside the freeports programme, which will facilitate growth and innovation through benefits such as tax relief for businesses. Many elements of the policy are devolved in Wales; therefore, discussions continue with the Welsh Government on those aspects.
Session: Investment Zones
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The reason the British countryside looks different when driving down the motorway is that the Labour Government in 1945 banned out-of-town advertising hoardings. Why have the Government allowed them to start appearing on every single motorway in the land? When will they get rid of these horrible excrescences?
Context
The ban on out-of-town advertising hoardings has been lifted, causing concerns about the British countryside aesthetics.
Lucy Frazer
That is a very interesting point. I am sure a Minister will take that up and consider it with the hon. Member.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am not sure that I follow the Minister's Twitter feed so avidly as other Members—[Interruption.] Easy! I suspect that he might have retweeted something that was published by the Conservative party earlier this year, which said: “We've secured new free trade deals with over 70 countries since 2016. That's over £800bn worth of new free trade.” But that is not true, is it? Actually, the UK Statistics Authority has told the Conservative party to stop publishing such fibs. Did the Minister retweet that, and, if he did so, will he apologise?
Context
The MP questions the accuracy of statistics regarding UK free trade deals.
Greg Hands
I am delighted that the hon. Gentleman has raised that. He has pointed out the fact that we have done trade deals with 71 countries plus the EU, and that that is about £800 billion-worth of trade with those countries. He may have done this inadvertently, but he draws attention to the fact that the Labour party has failed pretty much to support any of the deals that he is quoting. It abstained on the Japan deal. It abstained on the Australia and New Zealand deals. I bet the right hon. Member for Torfaen (Nick Thomas-Symonds) did not mention that to the Australian Trade Minister when he saw him last week. According to his Twitter feed, the party split three ways on Canada. It has failed to support any of these trade deals over the years. It is a bit rich of the party to raise it now.
Session: Trade Barriers
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Universal Postal Service Order: Rhondda
08 May 2024
Responding: Kevin Hollinrake
Main Concerns
['Chris Bryant is concerned about Royal Mail failing to meet the universal service obligation in his constituency. Letters have decreased from 14.3 billion in 2011-12 to 7.3 billion in 2022-23, and parcels increased from 2.6 billion to 3.6 billion during the same period. Residents face issues such as sporadic mail delivery, missed hospital appointments due to late letters, and difficulty contacting Royal Mail for complaints. Postal workers report insufficient staffing, prioritisation of parcels over post, large undeliverable rounds, and vans too small for both parcels and mail.']
Specific Asks
['Bryant wants Royal Mail to employ enough staff, value them properly, ensure that letters are not treated as second-rate compared to parcels, have a proper complaint process, and return to the system from about ten years ago. He also requests an apology if issues have been obscured locally.']
Housing: Rhondda
21 June 2023
Responding: Rachel Maclean
Main Concerns
["Mr. Bryant is concerned about the housing crisis in his constituency, where a combination of factors such as the bedroom tax, housing benefit cap, changes to buy-to-let taxation, Welsh housing quality standards, interest rate increases, and landlord sell-offs are pushing people out of social and commercial rented properties into temporary accommodation. There has been a 65% increase in families leaving private rental because of no-fault evictions and a 69% rise in temporary accommodation placements. The local authority's costs for providing temporary accommodation have more than tripled from £514,000 to £1,633,000 between 2019-20 and 2022-23."]
Specific Asks
['Mr. Bryant requests that the government address the housing benefit cap, change buy-to-let taxation rules to support commercial landlords, build more social housing, and consider practicality in applying Welsh housing standards in old terraced properties.']
Ministerial Code
29 November 2022
Responding: Alex Burghart
Main Concerns
['The ministerial code is broken as there is no adviser to oversee it, investigations cannot proceed without an adviser, and the publication of ministerial interests is delayed. The system lacks transparency with outdated registers and inconsistent reporting on financial interests, leading to discrepancies between declarations made in different roles.']
Specific Asks
["Chris Bryant asks for alignment between the ministerial code and the House of Commons' code of conduct to eliminate exemptions for Ministers regarding interest registration and disciplinary actions. He also requests that the independent adviser be appointed by Parliament or the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards."]
Magnitsky Sanctions: Human Rights Abuses
08 December 2021
Responding: Wendy Morton
Main Concerns
['Mr. Chris Bryant is concerned about human rights abuses across the globe, particularly in regions like Xinjiang where Uyghur Muslims face mass detention, forced sterilization, and other forms of torture. He also highlights cases in Iran involving arbitrary detentions and torture for diplomatic leverage and mentions recent military coups in Sudan which have resulted in violence against protesters. Additionally, he brings up the case of Paul Rusesabagina from Rwanda, emphasizing that justice should be served to those responsible for his enforced disappearance and imprisonment.']
Specific Asks
['Mr. Bryant asks the Government to sanction individuals responsible for human rights abuses such as Chen Quanguo in Xinjiang, Ali Rezvani in Iran, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo in Sudan, and Johnston Busingye and Colonel Jeannot Ruhunga in Rwanda. He also requests a proper parliamentary process to assess the addition of individuals to the Magnitsky sanctions list.']
Covid-19: Acquired Brain Injury — [Ms Angela Eagle in the Chair]
24 November 2020
Responding: Helen Whately
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the lack of a national neurorehabilitation strategy, inconsistent commissioning of services across regions, early discharges during the first lockdown leading to gaps in care, and the significant number of people affected by brain injuries each year. He mentions that around 800-900 lives are saved annually due to major trauma centres but many survivors come out with brain injuries. The MP also highlights issues such as families feeling pushed from pillar to post regarding access to rehabilitation services.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks for a national neurorehabilitation strategy, a mandatory system for commissioning neurorehabilitation, guarantees that all suspended or furloughed posts will be reinstated, and a coherent arrangement of community neurorehabilitation across the country. He also requests that neurorehabilitation be included in one of the 12 specialities protected during the pandemic.']
UK-Switzerland Enhanced Free Trade Agreement
14 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
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 ...
Opposition Day
07 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Steel Trade Measure
25 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Steel Tariffs
17 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Humble Address: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Processed Russian Oil Products: Sanctions
20 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Consular Assistance
05 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
24 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Industrial Development Act and Export and Investment Guarantees Act Amendments Bill - New Clause 3
23 February 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
This amendment would require the Secretary of State to publish an annual report on the impact of financial assistance limits set by this Act, focusing specifically on GDP, SMEs' export capacity, and t...
Attendance
49.0%
48 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
17
17.3% of votes
No Votes
31
31.6% of votes
Abstentions
50
51.0% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
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 Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
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 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
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
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
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
DID NOT VOTE
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: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
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: 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
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
107
Ministerial Questions Asked
351
House of Commons Debates Involved
5
Westminster Hall Debates Led
42
Statements / Bills
0
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
+698% above average
This MP:
107
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+99% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+7122% above average
This MP:
351
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+344% above average
This MP:
42
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-29% below average
This MP:
49.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Chris Bryant's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.