Clive Jones
MP for Wokingham
Lib Dem
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
I associate myself with the Prime Minister's remarks. His Government can be really proud of the national cancer plan. Cancer patients in Wokingham and across the country cannot afford for it not to be implemented or regularly updated. Will the Prime Minister leave a lasting legacy and support my private Member's Bill—the National Cancer Strategy Bill—to ensure that future Governments remain accountable for delivering the plan's targets and ambitions?
Context
The MP noted his concern for the national cancer plan's implementation and accountability. He referenced his private Member's Bill to ensure future Governments remain accountable.
Keir Starmer
I acknowledge the hon. Gentleman's personal experience and pay tribute to his campaign. I am incredibly proud of the national cancer plan, which sets out how we are ending the postcode lottery through more cancer specialists, paying travel costs for children travelling for cancer care, and investing in technology to drive research into rare cancers. Thanks to our record investment in the NHS, we have the shortest waits for cancer diagnosis on record. In his constituency, waiting lists in his local care board are down by 40,000.
Assessment
Did not directly support or reject the National Cancer Strategy Bill
Acknowledging The Question But Focusing On Current Achievements
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Will the Prime Minister ensure that the national cancer plan makes it possible to meet the 62-day target, recruit specialists and replace outdated equipment?
Context
Targets for cancer patients starting treatment within 62 days have not been met for a decade.
The Prime Minister
I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising this matter, which I know is personal to him. We are investing £600 million to improve diagnostic capacity and are rolling out new radiotherapy machines, including in his local trust. We have seen real improvements, but I acknowledge that there is more to do.
Assessment
Did not directly address the recruitment of specialists or equipment replacement.
Reassurance
Acknowledgment
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Brexit has created a web of red tape preventing businesses in Wokingham from developing relationships with European partners. Will the Government start negotiations for a growth and defence partnership with the EU to boost trade and growth?
Context
Brexit has created red tape preventing businesses in Wokingham from developing relationships with European partners. The MP seeks to know about negotiations for a growth and defence partnership with the EU.
Hamish Falconer
We are engaged in discussions with the European Union on exactly the questions that the hon. Member refers to. We have made good progress in the first two years; I wish to go further, as I set out in my answer to the question before.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-10
View All Questions -->
I have a constituent whose agreed adjustments have been removed and who has had appointments arranged by telephone despite a hearing impediment, and some assessment sites lack disabled parking. Does the Minister agree that adjustments must be applied consistently by Departments and contractors? What action will be taken when they are not?
Context
The MP references a constituent whose agreed adjustments have been removed and who has had appointments arranged by telephone despite a hearing impediment, and some assessment sites lack disabled parking.
Stephen Timms
I agree with the hon. Gentleman. If he would like to send me details of that particular case, I will happily look into it. On the subject of people with hearing impairments, my right hon. Friend the Minister for Women and Equalities and I will be meeting the British Sign Language Advisory Board this afternoon. On broader accessibility challenges, it is important that we meet and deliver on the communication needs and the reasonable adjustments that people have. When people apply to the Department for Work and Pensions, they can notify the Department of those adjustments at any stage of the claim and they will be noted on the claimant's record, so they should be consistently addressed when that individual gets in touch.
Session: Contacting Departments Accessibility 2026-09-09
View All Questions -->
What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to make it easier for people with accessibility needs to contact Government Departments.
Context
The MP is concerned about accessibility issues faced by people with disabilities when contacting government departments.
Stephen Timms
The Equality Act 2010 places a duty on public bodies to make reasonable adjustments, so that disabled people are not put at a disadvantage by accessibility challenges. Public service providers have to test provision regularly against the service standards, and Departments have to publish accessibility standards and provide feedback routes for users.
Session: Contacting Departments Accessibility 2026-09-09
View All Questions -->
Given the chronic underfunding of Wokingham borough council, which is facing difficult choices and placing increasing pressure on local services, what steps will the Government take to ensure that Wokingham receives a fairer settlement and can provide the services that residents deserve?
Context
Wokingham borough council is facing difficult choices and increasing pressure on local services due to chronic underfunding.
Emma Reynolds
We are improving funding for local government as a result of the spending review, and I would be happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss that further. It is also obviously a question for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-08
View All Questions -->
If this summer's free bus travel scheme for under-15s proves successful, will the Minister look to extend it for the future?
Context
The question enquires about the possibility of extending a successful summer scheme providing free bus travel to under-15s in Wokingham.
Simon Lightwood
Beyond March next year, we will continue to keep our options open to ensure that bus travel is safe, accessible and affordable for everyone.
Session: Bus Travel Affordability Children and Young People 2026-07-16
View All Questions -->
How will the cancer manuals support earlier diagnosis and improve outcomes for children and young people? Will they include specific guidance?
Context
Quality and consistency of care are crucial in improving cancer outcomes, especially for children and young people.
Sharon Hodgson
The national cancer plan has a dedicated chapter on children and young people, recognising the unique challenges they face. Cancer manuals will set out clear quality standards to reduce variation in care.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-14
View All Questions -->
How will the Government change public procurement to benefit SMEs and the economy?
Context
The questioner notes that only 5% of the defence procurement budget is allocated to SMEs and asks how the Government will change this.
Chris Ward
We need to do more to support SMEs using our procurement budget. We have announced new guidance to ensure contracts go to British companies in sectors like steel and shipping, and to help small businesses.
Session: Public Procurement SMEs
View All Questions -->
Without clear levers, accountability cannot be guaranteed and the Department cannot ensure that SEND reforms translate into consistent, high-quality support for children and their families on the ground. Will the Minister clarify what specific and enforceable powers local authorities will have to ensure that multi-academy trusts play their full part in delivering local area SEND plans?
Context
There is concern about clear levers for accountability in the delivery of SEND plans. The Department's response to the first question did not address these concerns fully.
Georgia Gould
The Government will be setting national standards for all schools, including multi-academy trusts. National inclusion standards will be developed by an independent expert panel and all schools will need to ensure they are delivered. We are also introducing new inspections for multi-academy trusts that will focus on a range of levers, including the importance of inclusion in education.
Session: SEND Improvement Plans Multi-academy Trusts
View All Questions -->
What assessment has the Department made of the potential impact of planned SEND reforms on the ability of local authorities to effectively co-operate with multi-academy trusts on the delivery of local area SEND improvement plans?
Context
The question arises from concerns about local authority cooperation with multi-academy trusts in delivering SEND plans. There is a need for clear levers to ensure accountability.
Georgia Gould
Through the national consultation and local special educational needs and disabilities reform plans, we are ensuring that multi-academy trusts play a key role in SEND reforms. New national inclusion standards will create shared expectations for all schools around inclusive education, and the SEND reforms make clear our expectations that all multi-academy trusts and schools work in partnership with local authorities to ensure the needs of every child in an area are met.
Session: SEND Improvement Plans Multi-academy Trusts
View All Questions -->
Would the Secretary of State consider convening twice-yearly meetings with grassroots sports governing bodies to strengthen collaboration and advocacy for community sport?
Context
Grassroots sports clubs are vital but often struggle due to lack of facilities and equipment.
Stephanie Peacock
The Government are fully committed to working with the sports sector to support our vital grassroots clubs. We work closely with Sports England, an arm's length body, to engage with grassroots sports across the country and ensure that all sports are seen, heard and supported.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What is the Minister doing to better protect Hongkongers in Wokingham and across the UK who are concerned about growing Chinese influence threatening their freedom and safety?
Context
Two people were convicted of spying on Hong Kong dissidents in the UK, one being a UK immigration officer.
Seema Malhotra
We are very clear that the UK will not tolerate any attempts by foreign states to intimidate, harass or harm individuals or communities in the United Kingdom. That continues to be our position.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What is the Department's position on setting 20 mph as a default speed limit for local minor roads, and will this be reflected in guidance to transport authorities?
Context
The Parliamentary Advisory Council suggests changing default speed limits on urban and rural minor roads to 20 mph.
Heidi Alexander
Decisions about speed limits are matters for local highway authorities, who know their areas best. Decisions need to be appropriate for local circumstances.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
When will the Minister commit to implementing independent domestic violence advisers in family courts?
Context
Many abusers escape justice in family courts, prompting a call for independent experts to help spot and advise against manipulative tactics.
Ellie Reeves
The Government are committed to rolling out child-focused courts nationally in three years, investing £17 million for the next expansion. I will pass comments on this issue to colleagues in the Ministry of Justice.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
View All Questions -->
What will the Government do to support local businesses that are proud to contribute to the UK economy yet seem to be suffering as a result of their determination to keep manufacturing in the UK?
Context
Surelock McGill, a leading manufacturer in Wokingham, has acquired a foundry to keep manufacturing in the UK but faces increasing energy costs.
Chris McDonald
In the specific case that the hon. Gentleman mentions, if the company is operating a ferrous foundry, that will be part of the British industrial competitiveness scheme. If it is a non-ferrous foundry, he may wish to share further details with me, because I have had representations on both copper and aluminium foundries, which I am looking at very carefully.
Session: Cost of Energy Support for Businesses
View All Questions -->
What will the Government do to drive forward investment for defence procurement SMEs?
Context
UK's defence sector, especially defence SMEs, need investment for procurement.
Luke Pollard
We established the Defence Office for Small Business Growth which is supporting dozens of SMEs. We are also increasing direct spend with SMEs and reducing contracting time to enable more bids.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Life science companies such as Becton Dickinson in my constituency play a key role in advancing the research and innovation that will help deliver the national cancer plan and transform cancer care. What is the Minister doing to increase funding on research and development for life science companies such as those in my constituency?
Context
Becton Dickinson in Wokingham plays a key role in advancing cancer care through innovation and research. The company faces challenges that affect its ability to contribute effectively.
Liz Kendall
We see life sciences as one of our greatest national assets and have made the largest ever investment in research and development. We are investing £730,000 to support seven projects in Wokingham because we know that is good for his constituents and the country.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Twelve weeks ago, I raised four cases with the DWP, and I am still waiting for a response, despite chasing. These delays are upsetting for my Wokingham constituents. What is the Minister doing to address this backlog, and when can my constituents expect a response?
Andrew Western
We are increasing the resources available to handle Members’ correspondence, but given the delays that the hon. Gentleman has outlined, if he wants to write to me with those details, I will look into them urgently for him.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Cancer Research UK's manifesto for cancer research and care in Scotland recommends that the Government should increase 'strategic institutional research and innovation funding… investing in and supporting the delivery of a new Scottish Health and Biomedicine Institute (SHBI) to deliver new innovations that will benefit people and the economy in Scotland.' What is the Minister doing to support that manifesto?
Context
Cancer Research UK's manifesto recommends increasing strategic institutional research and innovation funding to support the establishment of a Scottish Health and Biomedicine Institute (SHBI).
Kirsty McNeill
I commend my hon. Friend for his ongoing and dogged advocacy for this cause. As he will know, the UK Government are committed to ensuring a partnership approach between the health services of Scotland and the rest of the UK, and we are focused on ensuring that higher education, and other forms of innovation, are part of our work on cancer.
Session: Cancer Research
View All Questions -->
What steps the Government are taking with the National Institute for Health and Care Research to support cancer research in Scotland?
Context
The question addresses the need for effective cancer research support in Scotland, given its significant impact on public health.
Kirsty McNeill
Tragically, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in Scotland. I want Scots to benefit from the very best research. The National Institute for Health and Care Research works in partnership with the Scottish Government to support and enhance health and social care research across the UK, even though healthcare is devolved. Researchers in Scotland can now apply for funding, which has, for example, allowed the outstanding researchers at the University of Dundee to identify a newer, simpler type of mammogram that can reliably show how breast cancer responds to chemotherapy before surgery.
Session: Cancer Research
View All Questions -->
Last week, the Secretary of State announced £10 million for the Royal Berkshire hospital to fund a new site. After years of Conservative neglect, £400 million is needed to maintain the existing Royal Berks until rebuilding starts in 2039. What is the Minister doing to support the hospital and its excellent staff to help fix its many maintenance issues?
Context
The Secretary of State announced £10 million for the Royal Berkshire Hospital to fund a new site, but £400 million is needed to maintain the existing hospital until rebuilding starts in 2039.
Wes Streeting
I am delighted that, as well as announcing the £10 million needed to purchase the new site for the Royal Berkshire, we are investing in the existing estate; that is what local residents deserve. I was delighted to make that announcement last week with our brilliant Labour Reading council team.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Wokingham borough council is the lowest funded unitary authority. Between 2020 and 2022 when the Conservatives led the council, they cut the road maintenance budget by £2 million. Now the Labour Government are cutting £43 million from the council's funding for the next three years. What steps is the Minister taking to provide councils like Wokingham with the funding they need to maintain safe roads, despite being drained of cash by the Government?
Context
Wokingham borough council is facing financial cuts from the government, with a £43 million reduction over three years. The MP questions what steps are being taken to ensure councils like Wokingham have adequate funding.
Simon Lightwood
I am afraid that I do not recognise the hon. Gentleman's numbers. Capital funding for highways maintenance has not been cut in Wokingham. Wokingham borough council is eligible to receive £28.9 million over the next four years as part of the £7.3 billion investment. That represents a clear year-on-year increase from 2024-25 to 2025-26, with funding due to continue to increase over the next four years.
Session: Pothole Repairs Government Funding
View All Questions -->
What assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of Government funding for repairing potholes?
Context
The MP is concerned about the effectiveness of Government funding allocated to repair potholes, questioning whether it is being utilised effectively.
Simon Lightwood
This Labour Government are providing £7.3 billion for highways maintenance over four years, doubling the funding provided by the previous Government by the end of this Parliament. Our long-term funding approach is already reaping results, with 15% more pothole prevention works carried out in 2025 compared with 2024. Effectiveness is monitored through annual transparency reports, incentive funding requirements and the new traffic light ratings system, ensuring that funding is used to deliver lasting, visible improvements for road users.
Session: Pothole Repairs Government Funding
View All Questions -->
One of my constituents suffered such coercive violence that her partner forced her to allow him back into the home. She could not tell anyone, and he continued to assault her daily. She reported the behaviour to the police, but they did very little. He is in prison for less than five years, and authorities are concerned that he will target her again when he is released. What is the Minister doing to ensure that women are properly protected against coercive violence, and that ex-partners face justice?
Context
The question addresses a constituent's experience of coercive violence, where the perpetrator returned to the home despite her objections and continued assaulting her daily. The police response was inadequate, and there are concerns about future targeting.
Jess Phillips
I send all my sympathy to the hon. Gentleman's constituent, who sounds like she has had a terrible ordeal. Off the top of my head, one measure that the Government have rolled out is the domestic abuse protection order, which gives police the power of arrest if it is breached. It is the first domestic abuse order that can be taken out for coercive and controlling behaviour. The evidence so far on the police response to those orders, compared with other orders, has been really heartening.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
View All Questions -->
What are the Government doing to develop and strengthen trade with Europe, so that businesses in Wokingham can start to grow again? Agreeing a bespoke customs union would be a really good start.
Context
Clive Jones highlights the difficulties faced by businesses in Wokingham due to red tape and lost trade relationships in Europe.
Peter Kyle
This Government are pledging to reduce the burden on business by 25%. We are very aware of the issue of regulation and barriers to trade, and I mentioned it in my meetings with three EU commissioners.
Session: Trade with Europe
View All Questions -->
The funding given to local authorities is woefully inadequate to maintain the roads, let alone improve them. While Department for Transport funding remains well below historical levels in real terms, local authorities such as Wokingham have also had their funding dramatically cut by the Government. How do the Government expect local authorities like Wokingham to deliver on the objectives of the new road safety strategy?
Context
Local authorities face significant challenges in maintaining roads due to inadequate funding.
Heidi Alexander
We are putting record money into local councils—£1.6 billion this year, which is £500 million more than the year before—and we will be doubling the amount of money spent on local road maintenance over the course of this Parliament.
Session: Road Maintenance Funding
View All Questions -->
What assessment she has made of the effectiveness of funding for road maintenance. The funding given to local authorities is woefully inadequate to maintain the roads, let alone improve them. Local authorities such as Wokingham have had their funding dramatically cut by the Government. How do the Government expect local authorities like Wokingham to deliver on the objectives of the new road safety strategy?
Context
Local authorities face significant challenges in maintaining roads due to inadequate funding.
Heidi Alexander
We are investing a record £7.3 billion over the next four years to help councils maintain roads, doubling the amount of money spent on local road maintenance over the course of this Parliament. The hon. Member raises an important point about the importance of road surface and highways maintenance to road safety.
Session: Road Maintenance Funding
View All Questions -->
My constituents, three single mothers, have suffered at the hands of builders who built substandard homes without crucial damp-proof membrane and damp-proof courses. That meant that their homes were riddled with damp and mould, and the house builders have not addressed this serious fault for far too long. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to ensure that house builders can be held accountable by residents?
Context
Three single mothers in Wokingham have suffered from damp and mould issues due to substandard homes built without proper damp-proof membranes.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Steve Reed)
There are measures other than Awaab’s law in place that may be able to help, if I understood the detail of the case. I would be very happy to write to the hon. Gentleman. We could look, for instance, at warranties, or at building enforcement; those may be ways to get action taken.
Session: Social Housing Damp and Mould
View All Questions -->
What steps she is taking to provide adequate funding for special educational needs provision? In Wokingham there are not enough SEND places for pupils, which means that they have to travel outside the borough and sometimes a long way from their homes to go to school. In 2022, Wokingham bid for two SEND schools and were given those two schools, but nothing has happened since then; the Government have still not committed any funding to the schools. Will the Minister tell me now when the funding will be released so that the council can start building them?
Context
In Wokingham, there is a shortage of SEND places, causing pupils to travel long distances from their homes. The council bid for two new SEND schools in 2022 but has not received the necessary funding to proceed.
The Minister for School Standards (Georgia Gould)
We are absolutely committed to the education of children in their local communities, and I have seen the difference that the £740 million we have put into specialist places has made: children can now be educated in resource bases linked to schools. In relation to the two schools that the hon. Gentleman mentioned, as the Under-Secretary of State for Education, my hon. Friend the Member for Whitehaven and Workington (Josh MacAlister), said earlier, we hope to provide those answers as soon as possible.
Session: SEND Funding
View All Questions -->
Frimley Park hospital is part of wave 1 of the new hospital programme, with construction set for 2028-29. Constituents are concerned about possible delays and RAAC-related issues. Will the Minister confirm that construction will begin no later than 2029?
Context
Frimley Park hospital is in wave 1 of the new hospital programme, with construction expected to start in 2028-29. The MP's constituents are concerned about potential delays and safety issues related to reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
The hon. Gentleman is a campaigner for Royal Berkshire and now Frimley Park hospitals. We are on target with RAAC schemes, proposals from local integrated care boards are progressing to plan, and we look forward to further discussions.
Session: New Hospital Programme
View All Questions -->
My constituent Sarah described being 'smacked into' during a shoplifting incident, feeling fear at that moment. Does the Minister agree with the police and crime commissioner's view that Sarah is part of the problem, or does he think the bigger issue is that over 80% of these offences result in no charge?
Context
The Conservative Thames Valley police and crime commissioner has suggested the public should take more responsibility for preventing shoplifting. A constituent of Clive Jones experienced a violent incident during a shoplifting event.
The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (Mr David Lammy)
This issue does require more neighbourhood policing and bobbies on the beat—as the hon. Gentleman knows, numbers were cut under the last Government. I also think that the intensive supervision courts, provided for in the Sentencing Bill, will be able to make a huge difference. A lot of shoplifters need a judge checking in with them regularly, and sometimes dealing with their addiction issue, to get them to change course.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Following its reduction to £3,000, 71% reported a reduction in the number of therapy sessions. What will the Minister do, as a matter of urgency, to address the detrimental impacts of the changes to the ASGSF?
Context
According to a survey, just 40% of respondents believed that the previous £5,000 fair access limit was sufficient to meet their children’s needs.
Josh MacAlister
I thank the hon. Member for that important question. This is National Adoption Week, which I am sure Members across the House will want to celebrate, recognising the importance of adoption and the need to fill the adoption gap—about 1,500 adoptive parents for children are being waited for at the moment. We are looking at the future of the adoption and special guardianship support fund, which provides essential support, and we have tried to ensure that the scheme is accessible to as many families as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Many business owners across Wokingham are struggling with immense financial burdens created by Labour’s hike to national insurance contributions. This policy has prevented many from hiring more staff and devastated their profits, stifling growth. What steps is the Minister taking to give businesses like those in Wokingham hope that this Government do have their back?
Context
Business owners in Wokingham have reported financial burdens due to increased national insurance contributions, impacting hiring and profits.
Dan Tomlinson (Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury)
The big picture on all three of those questions is that at last year’s Budget, the Government made the decision to increase national insurance in order to raise £20 billion. We have put that money into our public services, making sure that waiting lists have fallen pretty much every single month since the election. That means that we have delivered 4 million more appointments, many more people have been seen, and waiting lists are falling in my constituency and across the country. That is the difference that this Government are making: we are repairing the foundations, and making sure that we can look after people now and in the future.
Session: Employer National Insurance Contributions Economic Growth
View All Questions -->
Bus usage and services in rural and semi-rural areas such as Wokingham were particularly hard hit during the pandemic. Will the Minister confirm that councils such as Wokingham will not see funding for local bus services reduced, and will he recognise that rebuilding bus usage in rural areas is a unique challenge that requires extra resources?
Context
Bus usage and services in rural and semi-rural areas such as Wokingham were particularly hard hit during the pandemic.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
I completely understand the challenges, particularly in rural areas. That is why the package of measures in the Bill to give local areas the powers that they need to take control of those buses is so important. I already mentioned socially necessary bus routes. In the Budget, we confirmed £1 billion in support to improve bus services and keep fares affordable, including in rural areas.
Session: Local Bus Services
View All Questions -->
The Government’s additional roles reimbursement scheme led to just three new GPs for my constituents in Wokingham, which is a drop in the ocean. More needs to be done to deliver GP practices in new developments such as Arborfield in south Wokingham. Why did Ministers not support the Liberal Democrat amendment to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill that would have made commitments to build GP surgeries in all new housing developments legally binding?
Context
The additional roles reimbursement scheme led to just three new GPs for Wokingham, which is seen as insufficient. There is a need to deliver GP practices in new developments such as Arborfield.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
Probably because being that prescriptive about every housing development is not sensible, even if the thrust of what the hon. Member describes—that as new housing development is built, we need to ensure that local infrastructure goes alongside it—is the right approach. I take what he says about the number of GPs, and as I have said, we do not pretend to have fixed all the problems in 11 months, but with respect, those are three more GPs than were there before. I know there is more to do, but give me time, and we will rebuild general practice for his constituents and anyone else’s.
Session: Access to GPs
View All Questions -->
Yesterday the Chancellor championed the Government’s supposed trade deal with the United States, but that trade deal is not yet complete. We know that because no impact assessment has been published. Why are the Government popping the champagne prematurely, and have they done an impact assessment on any of the ongoing negotiations?
Context
The MP questioned whether the Government had prematurely celebrated a deal with the US and if they have done an impact assessment.
The Minister for Trade Policy (Mr Alexander)
I am grateful that at least one of the Opposition parties accepts that there is a deal. The hon. Member is right to recognise that the implementation phase is what we are now relentlessly focused on. I am sure the House will be aware of the statement issued overnight by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, confirming that the US will expedite the agreed quota for car exports to the United States, reducing tariffs from 27.5% to 10%. The Government continue to work on this important deal.
Session: Trade Agreements Programme
View All Questions -->
T2. Will the Minister tell the House how much of the European Union’s €150 billion rearmament fund he anticipates will be available to our defence companies, who provide high quality jobs, and to our armed forces?
Context
The European Union has established a €150 billion rearmament fund to support the defence industry.
John Healey (The Secretary of State for Defence)
It is simply too early to say that about any of the nations, including all 27 EU nations. What I can say is that today’s agreement is the necessary key that opens the door to that potential for our Government and our defence industry.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Yesterday, I asked the Prime Minister whether Parliament will get a final vote on any trade deal negotiated with the United States, and the Prime Minister stated that it would go through the known process. That process does not include a vote for MPs on the ratification of any trade deal. Will the Secretary of State therefore make it explicitly clear, with a yes or no, whether MPs will get a final vote on the deal with the United States? The PM’s answer yesterday implied that we would not.
Context
The context involves the ratification process of trade agreements, specifically regarding a deal with the US. The MP references an earlier statement by the Prime Minister implying that MPs will not get a final vote.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Jonathan Reynolds)
The answer, as the hon. Gentleman knows, is no; we are not, in this Government, seeking to change the ratification process for any treaty. The Constitutional Reform and Governance Act 2010 sets out that process. MPs get the same rights and privileges in scrutinizing treaties but there will be no final vote on ratifying a trade deal with the US.
Session: Trade Agreements
View All Questions -->
The Government need to deliver measures that will cut red tape for businesses in Wokingham and across the country who want to sell their goods to our largest trading partner, the European Union. Since Brexit, over 2 billion pieces of paperwork have been added to UK exporters—enough paper to wrap around the world nearly 15 times. Does the Minister recognise the scale of that figure? How will he ensure that Conservative-imposed red tape for business with Europe is cut down?
Context
The MP highlights the significant increase in paperwork for UK exporters since Brexit, citing statistics from Aston University.
The Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security (Mr Douglas Alexander)
We are consciously pursuing a trade agenda based on data, not on post-imperial delusion. Regrettably, the data is pretty devastating on the damage done by how Brexit was implemented by our predecessors. If one wants to look at academic research, the latest publications from Aston University indicate that a number of small and medium-sized businesses, about which we have heard a lot today from Opposition Members, were buried under red tape. It is not only those businesses that have been buried under red tape; we have seen an increase in the number of civil servants across the United Kingdom by more than 100,000 in recent years. That is partly why the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster in the Cabinet Office is leading our work on rethinking the size and shape of the British state. The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right in recognising that we have a responsibility to try and clean up the mess. That is what we are doing.
Session: Exports to the EU
View All Questions -->
I thank the Minister for her reply and very kind remarks. As in Wales and England, not a single NHS board in Scotland is meeting the 62-day cancer waiting time standard. That is a legacy of under-investment from the SNP in Scotland, from Labour in Wales, and from the Conservatives in England. To develop change and save lives, we need proper funding for cancer services. How will the Secretary of State for Scotland ensure that his colleagues at the Department of Health and Social Care understand the importance of fully funding cancer strategies to avoid disasters like that devised by the SNP?
Context
Cancer remains the leading cause of death in Scotland, according to Cancer Research UK. The current situation shows that no NHS board in Scotland is meeting the 62-day cancer waiting time standard.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
I assure the hon. Member that this is a priority for the Government, but as healthcare is a devolved matter, the Scottish Government are responsible for their own cancer strategies, including diagnostic services in Scotland. In England, improving early diagnosis of cancer—including breast cancer—is a priority for the UK Government, who are committed to transforming diagnostic services and will support the NHS to meet the demand for diagnostic services through investment in new capacity, including MRI and CT scanners.
Session: Cancer Strategies
View All Questions -->
The Ministry of Defence owns more than 300 houses in the former Arborfield garrison in my constituency. Only a handful of them are occupied by service families; the remainder are let privately. But increasingly they are being left vacant, which, with the estate not being maintained, is affecting the lives of constituents. I am told that no decisions can be taken on the future of the site until a housing strategy is completed. Can the MOD make an early decision on the Arborfield housing, to stop the neglect and return much-needed, affordable housing to the market?
Context
The question concerns the neglect of military housing in Arborfield garrison, which is affecting local constituents negatively due to lack of maintenance and vacancies.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
If the hon. Gentleman writes to me with the specifics, I will certainly look into that. He sets out for the House the character of some of the neglect and decline that we have seen in our forces housing for so long, and the bind that previous Governments have been in, without the power or control to make the upgrades and plan for wholesale renewal for the future. That is what our housing review will start to fix. We cannot fix these deep-seated, long-running problems overnight, but we are determined to do better than we have done in the past.
Session: Service Accommodation
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
National Lung Cancer Screening Programme
25 June 2026
Responding: Stephen Kinnock
Main Concerns
["Lung cancer is a rapidly fatal disease that kills nearly 33,000 people in the UK annually. The targeted national lung cancer screening programme has identified more than 10,600 lung cancers with over 75% diagnosed at an early stage compared to just 28% before screening was introduced. However, concerns about integrated care board interference and lack of ringfenced funding threaten the programme's success. There are also worries about workforce pressures, particularly in radiology and thoracic surgery."]
Specific Asks
['The Government must reaffirm their commitment to a national roll-out timetable for lung cancer screening and ensure that it continues at pace until 2030. They should issue clear guidance to ICBs to prevent interference and guarantee ringfenced funding. Additionally, the workforce plan needs to be published to support the expansion of the programme.']
Secondary Breast Cancer — [Mr Clive Betts in the Chair]
11 June 2026
Responding: Sharon Hodgson
Main Concerns
['The speaker is concerned about the under-recognition and poor tracking of secondary breast cancer in the UK. He highlights that approximately 61,000 people are living with this disease but exact numbers remain uncertain due to insufficient data collection. This lack of reliable information hinders proper planning of NHS services and allocation of resources. The speaker also mentions delays in treatment and access issues for life-extending medications like Enhertu.']
Specific Asks
["The lead MP asks the Minister to outline a timeline for implementing the national cancer plan's commitment to defining and counting recurrent cancers, starting with metastatic breast cancer by 2026. Additionally, he enquires about plans to make data from the national disease registration service publicly available and measures to support patients missing out on life-extending medicines due to pricing barriers."]
Less Survivable Cancers
06 January 2026
Responding: Ashley Dalton
Main Concerns
['Every year in the UK, 90,000 people are diagnosed with a less survivable cancer—cancers of the brain, liver, lungs, pancreas, oesophagus and stomach. Together, they represent 40% of all cancer deaths and account for 67,000 deaths every year. The collective five-year survival rate for those cancers is just 16%. For many of these less survivable cancers, survival rates in the UK lag behind other countries, with the UK ranked 29th out of 33 countries for pancreatic cancer survival.']
Specific Asks
['The national cancer plan must address key measures to improve outcomes for patients with less survivable cancers. This includes supporting the roll-out of innovative detection tests and evaluating their use, as well as producing a strategy for earlier and faster diagnosis.']
NHS Workforce Levels: Impact on Cancer Patients
23 October 2025
Responding: Karin Smyth
Main Concerns
['The NHS workforce levels have significant shortfalls impacting cancer patients, with shortages in consultants, nurses, radiologists, and oncologists. According to Lilly UK, only one third of NHS staff believe there are enough people for them to perform their roles effectively, while the Royal College of Radiologists reports a 29% shortfall in radiologists, or 1,670 consultants, which is set to rise to 39%, or 3,112 consultants, in five years. The shortage of MRI, CT, and PET scanners also exacerbates delays.']
Specific Asks
['The Government must prioritise early diagnosis and improved treatment by launching a new national cancer plan on World Cancer Day 2026 and increasing endoscopy and pathology capacity to improve staffing levels.']
Waterloo-Reading Line: Class 701 Trains
01 July 2025
Responding: Simon Lightwood
Main Concerns
['The introduction of new trains has encountered delays and setbacks, with promises broken multiple times. Constituents face uncomfortable journeys without air conditioning or toilet facilities due to outdated rolling stock.']
Specific Asks
['When will the Arterio trains be in service on the Waterloo to Reading line? What steps are being taken to ensure that delays do not extend further?']
Children and Young People with Cancer
08 January 2025
Responding: Sir Stephen Timms
Main Concerns
['Cancer causes significant emotional, physical and mental pain for young patients. The costs of having cancer are substantial for children, young people and their families, including travel, food, energy, and other additional monthly expenses amounting to £700 on average per patient and family from day one.']
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member requests the government to reconsider the three-month qualifying period for disability benefits such as Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA), arguing that it is cruel and inappropriate in the case of children and young people with cancer.']
Ukraine and Russia
10 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Not specified in the provided text - Clause being debated is not specified in the provided text
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The provided text does not contain detailed arguments from Karin Smyth beyond the formal motion to read the clause a second time. Further details are needed for a comprehensive analysis.
Backbench Business
16 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Iran
15 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker highlighted the critical situation in Iran, noting Britain’s armed forces' commendable work. He mentioned recent US strikes against Iranian targets, stressing the need for a diplomatic sol...
Payment Scheme
06 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focuses on the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme and its amendments. The lead MP acknowledges thousands of victims suffering due to infected blood, emphasises the importance of reflecting ...
Thames Water
16 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Water Companies
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Insurance Act 2015 (Amendment) Bill - Lords amendments and Government motions to disagree
15 April 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves that the House disagrees with Lords amendment 1. Does not provide additional details in the provided text.
Online Safety Bill - Lords amendment 263 and related amendments
14 April 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves an amendment to Lords amendment 263, aiming to address issues in the current bill regarding online safety measures. She highlights concerns around user safety and the need for a proactive approa...
Attendance
68.0%
66 of 97 votes
Aye Votes
50
51.5% of votes
No Votes
16
16.5% of votes
Abstentions
31
32.0% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED AYE
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 AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
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 NO
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
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
2
PMQs Asked
62
Ministerial Questions Asked
86
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
97
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
-45% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+363% above average
This MP:
62
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1670% above average
This MP:
86
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 (%)
-2% below average
This MP:
68.0
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 Clive Jones's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.