Claire Hanna
MP for Belfast South and Mid Down
Social Democratic & Labour Party
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I, too, wish to pay tribute to Jo Cox and her family, and to the commitment in her name that we tackle division and extremism. We saw extremism play out on the streets of Belfast last week—a pogrom where families were burned out based on the colour of their skin; health workers were stopped and asked for ID by masked thugs; and small businesses were ordered to close. Many minorities are still living in fear after a list of their addresses was circulated widely online. They deserve more than sympathy and warm words; they deserve to know that Governments are serious about confronting hatred online and offline. The UK Government and the Northern Ireland Executive spend millions each year on programmes intended to tackle paramilitarism, but, decades after the troubles, individuals linked to loyalist paramilitaries had a role in directing and fuelling the disorder last week, including menacing a senior journalist on tape. Will the UK Government commit to reviewing how the Northern Ireland Executive are gripping—or failing to grip—paramilitarism? Will they ensure that public money never reaches individuals or groups who fuel, orchestrate or benefit from intimidation and hate?
Context
Recent incidents of paramilitary activity have led to families being burned out, health workers intimidated, and businesses ordered to close based on ethnicity or political affiliation.
David Lammy
I join the hon. Lady in utterly condemning the violence. People are right to feel sickened by the sight of people being burned out of their homes because of the colour of their skin. That is racism, and those responsible will face the full force of the law. We must never go back to 1950s Britain, where my father arrived to signs saying, “No blacks, no dogs, no Irish.” We are focused on bringing people together, and that includes by providing a further £24 million to help to tackle paramilitarism and by acting to tackle those who incite hatred online; our social cohesion plan is about bringing our communities together. I am happy to work with all parties in that endeavour.
Assessment
The specific ask for a review of how the Northern Ireland Executive are tackling paramilitarism was not addressed.
Provided General Commitment But No Concrete Plan
Session: PMQs
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We have seen this play out before: a US rush to military escalation with no plan for what comes next. The Prime Minister has said that the UK will not be drawn into the wider war. Will he guarantee two things: that that position will hold in the face of mounting pressure from Trump and Netanyahu, and that this House will get a vote before the UK is involved in any further conflict?
Context
The UK is facing pressure from the US to escalate military action, raising concerns about potential consequences.
Keir Starmer
We will protect our people in the region, we will take action to defend ourselves and our allies, and we will not be drawn into the wider war. The best way forward is a negotiated settlement, with Iran giving up any aspirations to develop a nuclear weapon.
Assessment
The question about guaranteeing the stance and having a vote was partially addressed but did not provide specific guarantees or timelines.
Session: PMQs
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Even its strongest advocates acknowledge that Northern Ireland is trapped in dysfunction—not because reform is not possible, but because the DUP and Sinn Féin have not allowed it. We have become a political “Hotel California”, where the past is always around but the future never arrives. There is growing public consensus that some of Stormont’s procedures simply are not working. The SDLP has found slivers of common ground across the political parties, too. Does the Prime Minister agree that now is the time for a structured conversation that both protects power sharing and addresses the culture of veto and decline so that Stormont might finally take responsibility and start to deliver for the people?
Context
There is growing public consensus that some of Stormont’s procedures are not working. The SDLP has found common ground across parties for reform.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
The Belfast/Good Friday agreement is one of the greatest achievements of the last Labour Government. As the hon. Lady well knows, it enshrined Northern Ireland’s place in the United Kingdom and set out clear principles and processes under that framework. I am aware of the Assembly and Executive Review Committee’s inquiry into institutional reform, and I can indicate that we are always happy to discuss any proposals for reform that would lead to a consensus.
Assessment
Did not explicitly commit to structured conversations but indicated openness to discussing reform.
Open To Discussion
Session: PMQs
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It is an increasingly turbulent world, and relationships and norms have been turned upside-down over recent weeks. Will the Prime Minister join me in wishing a happy St Patrick’s day to all who value our shared bonds? May I take this opportunity to invite him, in August 2027, to Belfast, which was announced this week as the host of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for the first time?
Context
The MP celebrates St Patrick’s Day and invites the Prime Minister to Belfast in 2027 for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
The Prime Minister (Rishi Sunak)
I would be happy to go to Belfast in 2027, but I want to go much sooner than that. We need a strong and settled relationship between the UK and Ireland, and the need for that has never been greater.
Assessment
No specific mention of attending Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann was given.
Stronger Relationships
Session: PMQs
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In light of the announcement yesterday on transition, does the Prime Minister recognise that people will be highly sceptical of the process? There must be real learnings from the failed transitions of the past. There can be no rewards for paramilitaries for hanging on.
Context
The MP raises concerns about the transition process in Northern Ireland, highlighting previous failed transitions and the need for robust measures against paramilitarism.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important and obviously sensitive issue. We are committed to making progress towards ending paramilitarism once and for all in Northern Ireland. That is why we have agreed to support a short independent exercise to look at a formal process.
Session: PMQs
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My neighbours Omar and Delal Al Shaqaqi received tragic news about their family members killed in Gaza. None of us can end this nightmare but we can do more. When will Israel be held to the same standards as Russia, with sanctions for genocide? Will the Government confirm further sanctions on Israel, recognise Palestine, and offer hope to Gazans?
Context
The crisis in Gaza has worsened, with Israeli airstrikes causing significant civilian casualties. The MP's constituents have family affected by the situation.
Keir Starmer
I am sorry about the families' loss. There are intense talks for a ceasefire, which would allow aid to go in at speed and scale, but no mention of sanctions on Israel or recognition of Palestine.
Assessment
Further sanctions against Israel and recognising the state of Palestine
Session: PMQs
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Some 39 women have died violently in Northern Ireland since 2017. The police are called to a domestic violence incident every 16 minutes and ours is now one of the most dangerous regions in Europe to be a woman. Stormont officials have consulted on a strategy to tackle violence against women, but there are no Ministers to take it forward. The outstanding Women's Aid Federation learned last month that its core funding is being taken away. In the demoralising absence of a Government, will the Prime Minister work with me and others to ensure that strategy is enacted and funded, so that we can tackle the cultures and behaviours that are having such a devastating impact on women in Northern Ireland?
Context
39 women have died violently in Northern Ireland since 2017. Police are called to a domestic violence incident every 16 minutes, making it one of the most dangerous regions for women.
Rishi Sunak
I join the hon. Lady in saying that it is absolutely right that we do everything possible to stamp out violence against women and girls. That is why the Government passed the landmark Domestic Abuse Act 2021, set up a 24/7 victims line and quadrupled funding for victim support.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to enacting or funding the specific strategy mentioned by the questioner.
Session: PMQs
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Over 70% of Northern Ireland's international tourists arrive in Dublin and travel across the land border, and the UK Government's proposed electronic travel authorisation is likely to mean the north being struck off the itinerary of operators and many independent travellers. The last thing we need is a barrier to one of our biggest economic drivers, to say nothing of the impact on non-Irish and British people living in Ireland. Members from across the House have acknowledged that our border is not a normal one. Will the Prime Minister commit to scrapping this unworkable proposal?
Context
Concern about the proposed electronic travel authorisation potentially impacting Northern Ireland's international tourism, a key economic driver.
Rishi Sunak
I can give the hon. Lady my assurance that we remain very committed to the common travel area, and indeed do not want to see any checks on the island of Ireland. That is why we are working very hard to resolve the issues with the protocol and ensure Northern Ireland's place in the United Kingdom.
Assessment
Did not commit to scrapping the proposed electronic travel authorisation
General Commitment To Common Travel Area
Session: PMQs
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Why has the Prime Minister and Chancellor not applied a modest windfall tax on businesses that have benefited much from the pandemic?
Context
The MP noted the cost of staffing Northern Ireland's health service and questioned why a windfall tax was not applied to internet giants who benefited during lockdown.
Boris Johnson
The Chancellor is addressing the discrepancy in tax paid by online businesses compared to concrete businesses.
Assessment
windfall tax specifics
Acknowledges Discrepancy But Avoids Specific Commitment
Session: PMQs
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I certainly echo those words about Captain Tom, a decent and inspiring man. The Social Democratic and Labour party has warned for the last five years about the destabilising impact Brexit would have on Northern Ireland... Will the Prime Minister, in affirming the rule of law in Northern Ireland, consider seriously the impact of their words, and work together through the available structures to ensure that the new arrangements work for everybody in Northern Ireland?
Context
The SDLP has warned for five years about the destabilising effects of Brexit in Northern Ireland. Recent decisions by the European Commission have led to disruption, criminal behaviour, and threats.
Boris Johnson
I certainly agree with the hon. Lady that it was most regrettable that the EU should seem to cast doubt on the Good Friday agreement and the principles of the peace process by seeming to call for a border across the island of Ireland. I can tell her that we will work to ensure that there are no such borders—we will respect the peace process—and, indeed, no barriers down the Irish sea, and that the principle of unfettered access across all parts of our United Kingdom is upheld.
Session: PMQs
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Contrary to the view of every political party here and all of those involved in logistics and retail, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland said last week that there is no border in the Irish sea and that disruption to supplies was a covid issue and nothing to do with Brexit or the protocol. The papers are reporting the Prime Minister's plans to woo the Biden Administration through the topic of Northern Ireland, as they and we try to move on from Trump and Trumpism. Would being straight with the people of Northern Ireland not be a good start?
Context
The question is about the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland's statement that there is no border in the Irish Sea, despite concerns from logistics and retail sectors.
Boris Johnson
As the hon. Lady may know from what I said to the Liaison Committee several times, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Actually, there is more transit now taking place between Larne and Stranraer—Cairnryan, than there is between Holyhead and Dublin, because it is going so smoothly.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address being straight with people of Northern Ireland but discussed transit volumes instead.
Discussed Transit Volumes
Session: PMQs
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The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee heard from victims and survivors about the Government's troubles legacy proposals. Victims have rejected these proposals, saying they close the door on truth and justice. Will the Prime Minister resile from the March statement and return to the principles embedded in the Stormont House agreement?
Context
Victims of the Troubles are rejecting Government's troubles legacy proposals.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
The victims have waited too long for these payments, and the way to unblock the progress is through the designation of a department to provide support for the victims' payments board. The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice, my hon. and learned Friend the Member for South East Cambridgeshire has indicated that she is prepared to take on that role.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Secretary of State convene a process for democratic reform of the institutions that a majority have asked for?
Context
Lack of delivery and responsibility-taking by the Executive is threatening community cohesion.
Hilary Benn
My hon. Friend is right; five main parties propose reform, I wish to meet party leaders to discuss these proposals. New powers were granted to the Police Service to remove paramilitary flags based on Jonathan Hall's recommendation.
Session: Community Cohesion 2026-07-08
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One of the lingering legacies of violence in Northern Ireland is our outrageous and distressing levels of violence against women and girls. Is the Secretary of State confident that all possible levers are being used to tackle misogyny?
Context
The questioner is concerned about the levels of violence against women and girls in Northern Ireland, citing recent murders.
Hilary Benn
I join my hon. Friend in what she says about recent convictions and murders. Northern Ireland is the most dangerous part of the UK for women in terms of violence against them. In the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill, we are closing a loophole allowing investigation of sexual-related offences during the troubles.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles Legacy and Reconciliation
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Supporting the call for a cut in VAT for the hospitality sector, heating oil prices are rising. In Northern Ireland, 60% of homes rely on heating oil. What steps will the Treasury take to cut fuel duty and remove VAT on domestic heating oil? Will it recognise the damage caused by blocking further oil and gas licensing in the North Sea?
Context
Households in Northern Ireland using heating oil face rising fuel costs and are not protected by the energy price cap.
Dan Tomlinson
Fuel duty has been frozen, saving drivers 8p per litre. We are looking closely at heating oil issues and changes in oil and gas prices. A meeting is scheduled for tomorrow to discuss heating oil. It is too early to tell how things will pan out.
Session: Northern Ireland Hospitality Sector VAT
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What recent assessment has been made of the potential merits of reducing VAT for the hospitality sector in Northern Ireland? A majority of Northern Ireland households use heating oil and are exposed to price shocks without protection by the energy price cap. What interventions can the Treasury make against extreme price fluctuations for those not on the grid?
Context
The hospitality sector faces business pressures in Northern Ireland, and many households use heating oil, which is not covered by the energy price cap and is exposed to price fluctuations.
Dan Tomlinson
The Government recognise the important contribution that hospitality businesses make. Reducing VAT would add complexity and cost to the Exchequer. A meeting has been arranged for tomorrow to discuss heating oil issues. We are also in conversations with the Competition and Markets Authority.
Session: Northern Ireland Hospitality Sector VAT
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Why are voluntary and community sector groups being asked to distort Special EU Programmes Body rules, rather than UK Government policy adapting to local needs?
Context
The MP inquired about the impact of policy changes to the local growth fund on Northern Ireland's voluntary and community sector groups.
Hilary Benn
I met the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action and CO3 last week to talk about this matter. It is a difficult situation because of how capital and resources have been allocated through the local growth fund. Of the £12 million of available resource funding, we agreed with the Executive that £3 million would go to Go Succeed at their request, and £9 million would go to economic inactivity programmes.
Session: Economic Impact of Government Policies
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I am concerned that organisations across Northern Ireland received devastating news of a large cut to the local growth fund just before Christmas, which will devastate crucial support jobs and work done to help vulnerable people into meaningful employment. What steps will the Northern Ireland Office take to prevent the loss of those crucial support jobs, and to help put in place services to tackle our low productivity?
Context
The local growth fund has recently faced significant cuts, impacting support jobs and employment initiatives for vulnerable individuals. Concerns have been raised about the impact on services aimed at tackling low productivity.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Matthew Patrick)
I pay tribute to the great work done by the voluntary sector in Northern Ireland. I know that this has been a difficult time, which is why our engagement with the sector has been so important. I can assure my hon. Friend that that engagement will continue to be important, especially as we launch the local growth fund, which provides £45.5 million a year to support growth in Northern Ireland.
Session: Northern Ireland Executive
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Collaboration between groups across the Irish sea is very welcome. Those relationships will always be cherished. Unfortunately, Brexit really impacted the ability of those groups to serve and support people, and that was a consequence of the failure to plan for the constitutional change of Brexit. Regardless of the Minister’s own views on Northern Ireland’s future, that issue is the subject of increased engagement and debate. The SDLP acknowledges that we are not at a tipping point towards a referendum, but the Secretary of State was wrong to say that there is no appetite for one. Does the Minister acknowledge that it is perfectly possible to work to improve the region in the here and now while also planning for the constitutional future that is a new Ireland, as the SDLP is doing?
Context
The MP referenced the impact of Brexit on the ability of community groups to serve and support people, highlighting that it was a consequence of the failure to plan for the constitutional change.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Matthew Patrick)
The Secretary of State has been clear that currently, there is no evidence that there is a majority in favour of constitutional change. Of course, we defend the principle of consent and the right of the people in Northern Ireland to determine their constitutional future. It is totally legitimate for people to advocate for the future they want to see.
Session: Community Groups Northern Ireland and Great Britain
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After all these years, people are bewildered that we are still talking about transitioning paramilitary groups, which have continued to recruit, to grip and to poison communities and current-day politics in Northern Ireland. Will the Minister commit to ensuring that we learn from all the things that have not gone right, and all the previous attempts at transition? Will he commit to ensuring that there is no payday for former paramilitaries, that we take a serious criminal justice approach, and that there are preconditions on such things as emblems and financial assets?
Context
The Secretary of State is considering a scoping study to assess the merits of having a formal process to bring about paramilitary group disbandment.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
For the avoidance of doubt, there is no question of paying anybody any money to disband. There is no question of doing that at all.
Session: Independent Reporting Commission Seventh Annual Report
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What progress has been made on reforming the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery? The MP references Nobel laureate Seamus Heaney’s description of Sean Brown, the day before his family is forced back to court, and the upcoming anniversary of the Kingsmill massacre. She asks if the Secretary of State will commit to removing the NIO veto under the guise of national security and ensuring root-and-branch reform of ICRIR with a focus on exposing collusive behavior.
Context
The SDLP member is concerned about the ongoing process of reforming the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery, particularly in light of recent events such as the court case involving Sean Brown's family and the anniversary of the Kingsmill massacre.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
The Secretary of State acknowledges meeting with the Brown family and Alan Black. He states that he is committed to a full investigation into Sean Brown's murder but cannot comment further due to ongoing legal proceedings. He confirms his commitment to fundamental reform of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery.
Session: Legacy Discussions
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Will the Secretary of State consider ambitious terms of reference for that review, to allow us to maximise growth and innovation by exploring issues such as dual market access and north-south co-operation?
Context
The forthcoming Windsor framework review presents an opportunity to look at issues beyond east-west trade.
Hilary Benn
As set out in law, whether there is an independent review depends on the outcome of the consent vote that will take place in the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Government would be under a legal obligation to commission a review if it is not passed with cross-community consent.
Session: City and Growth Deals
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Does the Minister agree that the funding and human resources attached to the new strategy must be proportionate to the urgency and deep roots of the issue? Will she support the Executive as they review sentencing and judicial processes?
Context
Mary Ward was the fourth woman to be murdered in just six weeks, leading to an urgent need for action on violence against women and girls. The recent publication of the Northern Ireland strategy on violence against women was welcome but must come with proper funding and human resources.
Fleur Anderson
My thoughts are with all those affected by violence against women, including Mary Ward. The Government stands ready to work together to challenge and change misogynistic attitudes, strengthen the justice system, and provide more support for frontline services.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls
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What discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on violence against women and girls in Northern Ireland.
Context
Seven women and girls have been killed violently in Northern Ireland this year alone, making it one of the most dangerous places in Europe for women. The Northern Ireland Executive has prioritized action on violence against women and girls.
Fleur Anderson
I have discussed the importance of action on violence against women and girls with the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister. The Northern Ireland Executive has made it a priority in their programme for Government, and a new strategic framework has been welcomed.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls
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Can the Secretary of State assure us that Casement will ultimately be built?
Context
There is a long-standing commitment to building Casement Park, but progress has been slow despite previous promises.
Hilary Benn
I think we all wish Armagh well in the all-Ireland final. The Executive are committed to the Casement Park project—it has been a commitment for over a decade now—but it has not progressed. Windsor Park got an upgrade, Ravenhill got an upgrade and it is important that Casement Park is built.
Session: Casement Park Redevelopment
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Despite repeated claims by the Saudi authorities that they would abolish the death penalty for children, child defendants are still regularly sentenced to death. Some 11 have been executed since 2015. Child defendants Abdullah al-Howaiti, Abdullah al-Derazi and Youssef al-Manasif have all received death sentences for crimes allegedly committed before the age of 18. In April 2020, Saudi authorities issued a royal decree purporting to abolish the death penalty, but that appears to have been an empty promise. Will the Minister intervene and impress on them their human rights obligations?
Context
Despite promises, Saudi authorities continue to sentence child defendants to death.
David Rutley
We continue to engage with the Saudi authorities on this and, as the hon. Member knows, we push back on the death penalty being used in any country around the world.
Session: Topical Questions
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The public's relief at the restoration of the Assembly has given way to frustration at the lack of pace of delivery by the Executive. After a two-year void, they are saying they do not want to be hurried to deliver for the people of Northern Ireland. Pressed healthcare staff, people waiting for special educational needs services, and those watching Lough Neagh face another summer of algal blooms are very much in a hurry for action. Northern Ireland urgently needs a delivery plan, a programme for Government and a budget. Yes, resources are a part of that, so will the Minister update us on any negotiations on the fiscal framework? Will he impress on the Executive the need for urgent action, not just warm words?
Context
The public's frustration with the lack of pace in delivering services following a two-year void. Healthcare staff, people waiting for special educational needs services, and those concerned about Lough Neagh are pressing for urgent action.
Chris Heaton-Harris
One thing that I picked up from the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister last week is that they too want to act in all the ways the hon. Lady said. Their priorities include developing a programme for government that will enable them to take forward the vital work of public service transformation. They are only 12 weeks in, and I look forward to good results in the short, medium and long term.
Session: Programme for Government Northern Ireland
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What discussions has he had with the Northern Ireland Executive on the development of a programme for government?
Context
The question arises from the need to develop a programme for government following the restoration of the Northern Ireland Assembly.
Chris Heaton-Harris
I met the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister last week. We had a constructive discussion about the Executive's priorities.
Session: Programme for Government Northern Ireland
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This morning's High Court ruling confirms the non-compatibility of the Government's legacy legislation with human rights. It puts perpetrators' needs before victims and is not supported by any party in Northern Ireland or across the island of Ireland. The Secretary of State was asked when will the Government repeal this completely unacceptable legislation?
Context
The High Court ruling confirms that the Government's legacy legislation is not compatible with human rights, putting needs of perpetrators ahead of victims. The Secretary of State was asked when will the Government repeal this unacceptable legislation.
Chris Heaton-Harris
The Court judgment was handed down only earlier; we have more than 200 pages to consider. The Government remain committed to implementing the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act, including delivery of the ICRIR.
Session: The Union
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Given the targeting of journalists, will you impress on Israel their specific obligations under international law?
Context
Over a hundred aid workers and seventy journalists have been killed.
Andrew Mitchell
As I said earlier, we do stress the importance of abiding by the rules of war. I pay tribute to the brave humanitarian workers who put themselves in harm's way, unarmed, to help their fellow citizens.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State may be aware that there is no childcare strategy in Northern Ireland and very little support, which is placing many families under extreme financial pressure because of growing costs, exacerbating inequality among children and forcing many, particularly women, to abandon their career for years. Research by the advocacy group Melted Parents demonstrates that families in Northern Ireland have been consistently failed on this issue. Does the Secretary of State agree that childcare must be recognised as a core part of the economic and societal fabric, as well as a tool to give kids a great start in life? Will he support the Department of Education and others to ensure that families in Northern Ireland can finally access the benefits promised in the Budget, promised in New Decade, New Approach and promised before that as well?
Context
There is no childcare strategy in Northern Ireland, placing many families under extreme financial pressure due to growing costs. Research by Melted Parents highlights the failure of families in Northern Ireland on this issue.
Chris Heaton-Harris
The Government recognised in the Budget how important childcare is, and we do work with the Department of Education. According to its figures, there were 22,715 pupils in funded pre-school education in Northern Ireland in the 2022-23 academic year, which is 91% of three-year-olds in the population.
Session: Early Learning and Childcare Funding
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If he will have discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on ensuring similar levels of funding for Northern Ireland to that announced for early learning and childcare in the spring Budget of 2023.
Context
In the spring Budget of 2023, increased funding was announced for early learning and childcare in England. Claire Hanna asks if similar levels of funding will be provided to Northern Ireland.
Chris Heaton-Harris
In his spring Budget, the Chancellor stated that Northern Ireland would receive Barnett consequentials for 2023-24 and 2024-25 as a result of increased UK Government spending on childcare policy reform in England.
Session: Early Learning and Childcare Funding
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The Minister will be aware that for decades we have co-operated and worked with the Republic of Ireland—particularly, for example, with the Republic not joining Schengen—to facilitate movement across the island of Ireland. Does he agree that it is perfectly possible to get the benefits of the ETA system in terms of security, ease of travel and e-visas, while working with the Republic of Ireland's Government to make sure there are appropriate provisions for people who are residents of the island of Ireland?
Context
Historical co-operation between the UK and ROI in facilitating movement across the island, raising questions about compatibility with new ETA requirements.
Steven Baker
I agree with my hon. Friend, and I pay tribute to him as an outstanding former Immigration Minister. Of course, we will be respecting the common travel area. There will be no immigration controls on the border on the island of Ireland, and we will seek to ensure that this scheme works well.
Session: Electronic Travel Authorisation Impact on Travel
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Last week I asked the Prime Minister about the impact of electronic travel authorisation on Northern Irish tourism, and his answer indicated that he did not understand the topic at all. This rang true with people who believe that this Government do not engage with the impact of their decisions on our region and our economy. Will the Secretary of State please bring the Prime Minister up to speed and push to scrap this unworkable proposal, which tourism chiefs from hotels and attractions across Northern Ireland have indicated would massively undermine our potential?
Context
Concerns raised about the potential negative impact of ETA on tourism in Northern Ireland, with previous statements indicating a lack of understanding by the Prime Minister.
Steven Baker
We have been engaging with Tourism Northern Ireland. Home Office colleagues have begun that engagement, and of course we will engage widely with everybody who is interested in that issue. There is evidence from schemes in other countries that tourism will not be adversely affected. What we need to do is ensure that we communicate widely what the requirements will be to enter the UK. I hope the hon. Lady will not mind me saying that, having listened carefully to stakeholders in Northern Ireland, we will be working constructively with the Irish Government to ensure that we are supporting people who have a legitimate reason to live in Ireland to get across the border as conveniently as possible.
Session: Electronic Travel Authorisation Impact on Travel
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Households and businesses are being crippled by energy costs with non-existent support from the Northern Ireland energy scheme. With Shell reporting £8.2 billion in quarterly profit and BP over £7 billion, yet not expected to pay any windfall taxes this year under current rules, will the Chancellor extend the scope of the levy and close loopholes on timing, share buybacks and investment allowances?
Context
Households and businesses in Northern Ireland are facing high energy costs, while major oil companies like Shell and BP are reporting substantial profits. The current windfall tax does not cover all profitable entities.
James Cartlidge
To be clear, the levy is an additional 25% surcharge on UK oil and gas profits on top of the existing 40% headline rate of tax, taking the combined rate of tax on those profits to 65%. The hon. Lady is right that the levy contributes to the support that will be going out to Northern Ireland; it will come in a month later, but will be backdated to 1 October, and it will include businesses as well as households.
Session: Energy Profits Levy
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Whether he plans to review the surcharge rate of the energy profits levy. The energy profits levy was introduced on 26 May in response to sharp increases in oil and gas prices, aimed at funding cost of living support for UK households.
Context
The question arises from concerns about the surcharge rate of the energy profits levy.
James Cartlidge
The energy profits levy was introduced from 26 May in response to sharp increases in oil and gas prices and to help fund cost of living support for UK households. It is an additional 25% surcharge on UK oil and gas profits. The Government have calculated that they expect the levy to raise more than £7 billion this financial year.
Session: Energy Profits Levy
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The Social Democratic and Labour party seeks to build a new Ireland by persuasion and consent, but the rational mechanism for constitutional change is set out in the 1998 agreement. Will you confirm that the Government have no intention of unpicking the principle of consent?
Context
The MP inquires about the Government's stance on unpicking the principle of consent as outlined in the Belfast/Good Friday agreement.
Steven Baker
Absolutely. The Government are fully committed to the principle of consent and the Belfast/Good Friday agreement. Indeed, our actions are all guided by that full commitment to the Belfast/Good Friday agreement and its protection.
Session: Benefits of the Union
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I welcome the Minister to his new role. We are concerned about his politics, but the SDLP will work constructively with anybody to get solutions. We ask the Minister to commit to working constructively with all parties, with all identities, to see Northern Ireland through the winter and resolve issues like fuel poverty.
Context
There is concern about the lack of a functioning Executive, particularly given high fuel poverty rates among oil-dependent households. Stormont caretaker Ministers are seen as failing to address these issues.
Chris Heaton-Harris
I would like to think that I can work constructively with all parties and communities in Northern Ireland, as I did when I had my Foreign Office role at the beginning of this year. The Minister intends to continue working constructively moving forward.
Session: Devolved Government
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The Government claim that their protocol Bill is designed to protect the Good Friday agreement, while being in the middle of a demolition derby of its core values, creating regression and polarisation that will take us years to fix. What legal advice has he received and what representations has he made to Cabinet colleagues about the compatibility of the Bill of Rights and the 1998 agreement?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the legal compatibility of the Bill with the Good Friday agreement.
Brandon Lewis
I have made the point several times at the Dispatch Box over the past couple of years that we must ensure protection for all three strands. I hope she will support the Bill which seeks to fix challenges and restore primacy.
Session: Trade between NI and rest of UK
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Will he acknowledge that there has been a year-long campaign of reality distortion to mask the fact that the protocol is required by people in Northern Ireland?
Context
Recent ONS data indicates Northern Ireland is faring well due to the protection of the protocol, but there are issues with local councils.
Brandon Lewis
We want the protocol to work, but at present it does not. Engagement with business groups highlighted the status quo does not work.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol Negotiations
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No one wants to move forward more than victims and survivors, but they cannot do that until killers allow them to by telling the truth. However, these proposals protect those vested interests and not victims' interests. Fresh forensic evidence has just been found in the investigation into the IRA murder of Tom Oliver, giving a lie to the claim that investigations cannot be advanced. For victims of state violence too, the experience is one of information suppressed and not shared, so I ask: what steps have been taken to ensure that relevant state papers are being prepared for release? Will multi-decade papers on sensitive events be released, if the Government's aim really is to aid reconciliation through truth?
Context
Fresh forensic evidence has been found in the IRA murder of Tom Oliver, contradicting claims that investigations cannot advance. Victims of state violence face suppression and lack of information sharing.
Brandon Lewis
Actually, the hon. Lady in a way has highlighted the point I was making last week; I think there is a way to do information recovery to get to truth and accountability. Operation Kenova, which is behind the evidence that she outlined, has shown over the past five years that, despite not having prosecutions, for many victims and families it has been able to help them understand and get to the truth. This is another example of that; they have managed to get some evidence to be able to get to what may well be the truth. But I would just caution the hon. Lady to look carefully at the statement from Operation Kenova about exactly what it has found; Operation Kenova has not yet had any prosecutions. But it is right that we continue to get information. We are clear that we want to make sure that we are getting information to people, and potentially in a way that we have not seen before, to really be able to get to the bottom of what happened and for people to have a true understanding of what happened at that time.
Session: Legacy Issues
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We appreciate that sanitary and phytosanitary checks are a tricky issue internally for the Conservative party, but as the person in government in charge of speaking up for Northern Ireland, has the Secretary of State personally articulated to his Cabinet colleagues how the UK-EU veterinary and SPS arrangements could address the frictions in trade? Has he directly asked them to put the interests of Northern Ireland ahead of a theoretical power to diverge that the UK does not look as if it is going to use any time soon?
Context
The Social Democratic and Labour party expressed concern over the PSNI officer's experience with warped throwbacks. The issue of sanitary and phytosanitary checks is a tricky internal matter for the Conservative party.
Brandon Lewis
I appreciate the hon. Lady's comments as, I am sure, does the PSNI. Obviously, I am always making the case in the UK Government for the best outcome for people in Northern Ireland, and it is right that Northern Ireland is an integral part of the United Kingdom in terms of trade. As I have said, SPS checks in one form or another, recognising the single epidemiological unit and biosecurity of the island of Ireland, have been in place since about the 19th century. We must ensure that we have a proper, pragmatic, flexible, free flow of goods, so that a consumer in Northern Ireland is able to have the same experience as a member of the United Kingdom anywhere in the United Kingdom. We are determined to ensure that we deliver that.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol Trade with Great Britain
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Asylum seekers in Northern Ireland are disadvantaged by a lack of parity in specialist services such as trauma counselling and legal advice, but instead of plugging these gaps, this Secretary of State seems obsessed with introducing ever more punitive and dehumanising policies in her approach to dealing with people fleeing persecution. We have seen the outworkings of offshore processing in Australia, which cost lives and hundreds of millions of pounds; it was a human rights disaster. Will the Minister take the opportunity to confirm that the Department is not pursuing plans to use third countries as dumping grounds? Will the Government instead commit to establishing safe and legal routes, and housing with dignity those who need asylum in the UK?
Context
There are concerns about the lack of parity in specialist services such as trauma counselling and legal advice for asylum seekers. Additionally, there is criticism over the introduction of punitive policies.
Kevin Foster
It is disappointing to hear the tone of the hon. Lady's question, given that the Belfast City Council area is the only part of Northern Ireland to act as a dispersal area. Securing suitable accommodation relies on local communities taking part. Perhaps she may wish to reflect on what more action could be taken by councils where the Social Democratic and Labour party has a presence to match her words.
Session: Asylum Accommodation Northern Ireland
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What recent discussions has her Department had with the Northern Ireland Executive on asylum accommodation in Northern Ireland?
Context
Discussions on the provision of asylum accommodation are ongoing, with concerns over parity in specialist services for asylum seekers.
Kevin Foster
Home Office officials meet weekly with the Northern Ireland Strategic Migration Partnership to discuss intake, accommodation and other operational matters relating to asylum accommodation. That is supplemented by formal monthly meetings with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Belfast City Council, the voluntary and communities sector, public health colleagues and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
Session: Asylum Accommodation Northern Ireland
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Northern Ireland opposed Brexit, but it has happened. The protocol is its outworking, and it has to be made to work. The SDLP is determined to maximise the opportunities available to this region from being the crossroads between the UK and EU markets. We have written to the Minister seeking support in promoting Northern Ireland to investors who are seeking access to both the EU and UK markets.
Context
The SDLP is concerned about maximizing opportunities for Northern Ireland, particularly with unique access between UK and EU markets.
Graham Stuart
We will absolutely work with her and Invest Northern Ireland, which does a fantastic job in conjunction with DIT to promote both investment into Northern Ireland and exports from it.
Session: Growth for British Businesses
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I assume that the Secretary of State is aware of the challenges this causes for ordinary pet owners, but specifically can he advise what mitigations were anticipated and are being put in place for those who require assistance dogs to travel between Britain and Northern Ireland?
Context
The question stems from challenges faced by ordinary pet owners, particularly those needing assistance dogs, due to new regulations.
George Eustice
The primary purpose of the pet travel regulations is to control the spread of rabies. We think there should be easement on the provision, and we are arguing with the Commission that we should be listed in part 1. Bilateral negotiations with Ireland continue.
Session: Great Britain-Northern Ireland Pet Travel
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If he will take steps to ensure that the new regulations for Great Britain-Northern Ireland pet travel are not overly restrictive. The Northern Ireland protocol applies EU pet travel regulations, requiring documentation from Great Britain.
Context
The question arises from the application of EU pet travel regulations due to the Northern Ireland protocol, which affects pet owners moving between regions.
George Eustice
The Northern Ireland protocol under the European Union withdrawal agreement applies the EU pet travel regulations for pet movements from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. Great Britain and Ireland have a similarly very high health status, and we are discussing possible bilateral provisions with Ireland.
Session: Great Britain-Northern Ireland Pet Travel
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I thank the Secretary of State for his remarks regarding Edwin Poots. Given that formal EU frameworks no longer apply to our engagements with the Irish Government, has the Secretary considered using platforms like the British-Irish Council or the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference more effectively?
Context
The question is prompted by a lack of EU framework meetings between the UK and Ireland, raising concerns about alternative structures for engagement on issues such as the Northern Ireland protocol.
Brandon Lewis
I thank the hon. Lady for her comments on Edwin Poots and have communicated with him today, reaffirming his commitment to the people of Northern Ireland during his recovery. The Irish Government shares a strong friendship and partnership with the UK as do Prime Minister and Taoiseach. We regularly engage with Simon Coveney and conduct quad meetings involving relevant Ministers from both sides.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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The spending of the shared prosperity fund under the UK Internal Market Bill would override devolution, with no duty to consult on spend in devolved areas. Given breaches indicated in the internal market Bill and expected in the taxation Bill, can assurances be given that next week's Bill will not further undermine the Northern Ireland protocol?
Context
Concern about clauses in the UK Internal Market Bill breaching international law, undermining Northern Ireland protocol, and impacting certainty.
Brandon Lewis
The clauses aim to protect and deliver on the Good Friday agreement by ensuring no borders, including east-west. The devolved authorities would be part of the shared prosperity fund governance; however, this is extra money once we leave the EU to support communities as promised.
Session: Structural and Investment Funding Transition Period
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What recent discussions have been had with Cabinet colleagues regarding the devolution of (a) structural and (b) investment funding in Northern Ireland after the end of the transition period to the Northern Ireland Executive?
Context
Discussions on the potential merits of devolving spending for structural and investment funding after the transition period to the Northern Ireland Executive.
Brandon Lewis
The UK shared prosperity fund will help level up and create opportunities across the United Kingdom. The Government will coordinate this funding on a UK-wide basis, working with devolved Administrations to ensure it is used effectively. Devolved authorities will be part of the governance structures for the fund.
Session: Structural and Investment Funding Transition Period
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The health service in Northern Ireland faces incredible pressure. Does the Minister agree that leaving without a deal would be dangerous for people's health?
Context
The health service is under immense pressure from the ongoing pandemic, with hospitals facing shortages of beds and key supplies.
Robin Walker
The hon. Lady is correct about the importance of the national health service and access to medicines through Ireland and the UK. The protocol will protect goods and north-south movements, providing crucial support.
Session: Leaving the EU without a Deal
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment his Department has made of the potential effect on Northern Ireland of the UK leaving the EU without a deal?
Context
No specific event or statistic mentioned, but the question focuses on the potential risks to Northern Ireland if there is no trade agreement with the EU after Brexit.
Robin Walker
The UK left the EU on 31 January 2020 based on the withdrawal agreement, including the Northern Ireland protocol. The government is working closely with stakeholders to implement this by the end of the transition period.
Session: Leaving the EU without a Deal
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Family and Work Visas
13 November 2024
Responding: Seema Malhotra
Main Concerns
["Claire Hanna is concerned about the negative impact of recent changes to family and work visas on Northern Ireland's economy and public services. She highlights issues such as lower wages, competition for talent with the Republic of Ireland, and specific challenges in sectors like healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, fishing, and agriculture. The average wage for a care worker is £11.58 per hour, which makes it difficult to attract essential workers from overseas due to family separation restrictions. She also mentions race hate incidents fuelled by media hype and political rhetoric."]
Specific Asks
["Hanna asks the government to reform aspects of the visa rules that are detrimental to Northern Ireland's economy and public services. She suggests flexible regional differences in visa policies and advocates for solutions like a bespoke visa for the mushroom industry and concessions for ferry workers."]
EU Funding: Northern Ireland
01 February 2023
Responding: Dehenna Davison
Main Concerns
['Claire Hanna expressed concerns about the loss of EU funding for Northern Ireland, particularly noting that during the EU referendum campaign there were assurances that Northern Ireland would not lose out from funds based on need. She highlighted issues with process, strategy, coordination, and transparency in the allocation of the community renewal fund and shared prosperity fund (SPF). Hanna pointed out that Northern Ireland was a net beneficiary of EU funding which was necessary to address capital underinvestment, high rates of economically inactive people, and difficulties attracting quality investment. The average annual loss from ESF/ERDF funding is £65 million for Northern Ireland, while the SPF allocation is only £127 million over three years. She cited specific examples such as the NOW Group and Mencap to illustrate the impact on local organisations and services.']
Specific Asks
["Claire Hanna asked how the Department ensures that funded projects align with Northern Ireland's democratically agreed priorities in the absence of a formal role for those Departments, and requested clarity on future funding decisions and criteria. She also questioned whether any additional considerations were applied to funding decisions and if the criteria were consistent across all projects."]
Asylum Seekers Contingency Accommodation: Belfast
22 November 2022
Responding: Robert Jenrick
Main Concerns
["The Home Office's failures in processing asylum applications have led to a growing backlog, resulting in more people being left in limbo for long periods of time. This is unsuitable for most individuals, especially families and those with specific needs. Currently, about 1,000 people are in hotel accommodation in Northern Ireland, and the lack of proper coordination from the Northern Ireland Executive exacerbates the situation."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should address the backlog by processing claims more efficiently, providing safe routes for asylum seekers to apply from outside the UK, and ensuring effective data sharing between the Home Office and local public bodies. This would allow better integration of those granted asylum into society.']
Shared Prosperity Fund: Devolved Administrations
01 March 2022
Responding: Neil O'Brien
Main Concerns
["Claire Hanna is concerned about the lack of clarity regarding the design, priorities, level of funding available, and governance arrangements for the Shared Prosperity Fund. She mentioned that Northern Ireland's Department for the Economy faces a £100 million gap in funding, which will lead to halving apprenticeship programmes and rolling back the skills agenda. Hanna cited an example of Orchardville, a charity facing substantial financial difficulties due to the lack of information on the fund. The Minister's approach of centralising power has led to fears about losing experienced partners who have been administering European funds for decades."]
Specific Asks
['Hanna asks the Government to provide more detailed and transparent information regarding the Shared Prosperity Fund, especially concerning funding levels and governance arrangements in Northern Ireland. She suggests that the fund should be delivered in conjunction with the Northern Ireland programme for government and through existing delivery partners who have a proven track record.']
Covid-19: Maternity and Parental Leave
05 October 2020
Responding: Catherine McKinnell
Main Concerns
["The petition has received almost a quarter of a million signatures, highlighting the profound impact of the pandemic on new parents. New mothers face significant challenges due to isolation from support networks and disrupted childcare arrangements. The Petitions Committee's inquiry found that the pandemic has exacerbated mental health risks for new parents, with health visitor services being overwhelmed by an unmanageable caseload."]
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to urgently review their approach and provide a clear timetable for implementing reforms recommended in the report. I also ask for additional clarity on government guidance for parent and baby groups and recognition of the challenges faced by working parents due to lack of childcare support.']
Belfast: Violent Disorder
10 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson 2026-02-04
04 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, that an humble Address be presented to His Majesty, that he will be graciously pleased to give directions to require the Government to lay before this House all papers relating to Lord ...
Northern Ireland Troubles Legacy and Reconciliation 2026-01-21
21 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Pension Schemes Bill 2025-12-03
03 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Proposes a new clause that allows expenditure for the Ombudsman for the Board of the Pension Protection Fund to be paid from money raised by the general levy payable by occupational pension schemes an...
Northern Ireland Troubles Bill 2025-11-18
18 November 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Northern Ireland Troubles 2025-10-14
14 October 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East 2025-10-14
14 October 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Prime Minister condemned antisemitic attacks and expressed relief at the end of the Gaza conflict, highlighting the release of hostages and cessation of bombardment. He announced £20 million in ad...
Spending Review 2025 2025-06-11
11 June 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
As Chancellor, the speaker's main focus is to improve working people's lives and rebuild schools and hospitals. She highlights the previous government’s £22 billion black hole in public finances and e...
European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism 2025-03-11
11 March 2025
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
Today is the European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism, reflecting on terror and its impact. MP Gavin Robinson highlighted the victims like Jo Cox and David Amess who were killed by extremists...
Clonoe Inquest 2025-02-11
11 February 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister make a statement on the coroner’s ruling in the Clonoe inquest, which found that lethal force used by soldiers was unjustified and may expose soldiers to potential prosecution? The M...
Attendance
20.4%
20 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
15
15.3% of votes
No Votes
5
5.1% of votes
Abstentions
78
79.6% 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
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
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
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED AYE
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
VOTED AYE
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
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
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
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
12
PMQs Asked
41
Ministerial Questions Asked
89
House of Commons Debates Involved
5
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
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
+228% above average
This MP:
12
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+206% above average
This MP:
41
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+99% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1731% above average
This MP:
89
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-71% below average
This MP:
20.4
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 Claire Hanna's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.