Dan Carden
MP for Liverpool Walton
Lab
8 Jun 2017 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The forced isolation of people in care homes or hospitals from their loved ones from the beginning of the pandemic, and its terrible consequences, as well as the many who died alone, has left a profound trauma. We have learned the hard way that the care of a loved one is not an optional extra; it is an essential part of dignified care. My Care Supporters Bill would guarantee that fundamental right. While the Government recognise that there is a problem, their recently announced consultation relates to visiting and not a legal right to a care supporter at all times. Would the Deputy Prime Minister speak to the Prime Minister about bringing forward legislation in the next King's Speech?
Context
The Care Supporters Bill would guarantee that care supporters have access to loved ones in care homes and hospitals.
Oliver Dowden
The hon. Gentleman is right to highlight the need for care supporters to be able to have that kind of access. I will take away the points he has raised, and raise them with my ministerial colleagues.
Session: PMQs
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It is welcome that Ukrainians seeking asylum in Britain will have the right to work and access to public services; we should always offer sanctuary to those fleeing persecution. People who come to Britain to make it their home no matter where they are from or the colour of their skin make a hugely positive contribution to our society and economy if supported to do so. So how can the Government now justify not extending the same welcome and the same rights, including the right to work, to all people seeking asylum in Britain?
Context
Ukrainians seeking asylum in Britain will have the right to work and access public services, while other asylum seekers do not.
Dominic Raab
The hon. Gentleman is right that we have a strong tradition, as we have shown: we have stepped up to the plate with the Hong Kong British national overseas citizens, and with Operation Pitting which brought 17,000 back from Afghanistan, and we will go further and beyond the normal rules when there is a crisis, as we have seen in Ukraine. He is absolutely right about the current scheme: those Ukrainians coming here can live, work and access benefits, and can stay for three years with leave to remain. I am proud, and the whole House should be proud, not just of the big-hearted approach of this Government, but the 100,000 British sponsors who have come forward and said they will open their homes to those refugees.
Assessment
Did not address why similar rights are not extended to other asylum seekers; instead provided examples of previous actions during crises.
Session: PMQs
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In 2012, commissioning for alcohol and drug addiction treatment moved from the NHS to local authorities, overwhelming them with cuts and fragmentation. Addiction is an illness that can be treated. Will the Prime Minister urgently investigate the rise in deaths and bring addiction treatment back into the NHS within mental health services?
Context
Commissioning for alcohol and drug addiction treatment was taken out of the NHS a decade ago, leading to service fragmentation. Last year saw record high alcohol-specific deaths.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Gentleman is right about the importance of addiction treatment and its relationship to mental health, and we are investing record sums in mental health, including £13.3 billion.
Assessment
Did not commit to investigating deaths or bringing back treatment into NHS
Acknowledging Importance But No Specific Commitments
Session: PMQs
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Liverpool city region's visitor economy reached £6.8 billion last month, and our productivity growth is currently running at four times the national average. The region has an incredibly exciting plan to redevelop Central station in the city centre and link it to Lime Street, which would drive billions in investment from the private sector. When the Minister visits us for the party conference, will he take a bit of time to meet Mayor Rotheram and the leader of the council, Liam Robinson, to see their exciting plans?
Context
Liverpool city region's visitor economy reached £6.8 billion last month, with productivity growth four times the national average. The region plans to redevelop Central station to drive investment and growth.
Dan Tomlinson
I am delighted to inform my hon. Friend that my conference calendar already includes a meeting with local leaders in Liverpool to talk about what we can do to back growth and investment in his city and region. I have been in conversations already with the mayor of the city region about the things that he wants to work on and focus on to boost economic growth, and that includes the Liverpool Central development.
Session: Private Investment Local Leaders 2026-09-08
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Liverpool city region's visitor economy reached £6.8 billion last month, and our productivity growth is currently running at four times the national average. The region has an incredibly exciting plan to redevelop Central station in the city centre and link it to Lime Street, which would drive billions in investment from the private sector. When the Minister visits us for the party conference, will he take a bit of time to meet Mayor Rotheram and the leader of the council, Liam Robinson, to see their exciting plans?
Context
Liverpool city region has experienced significant economic growth, with the visitor economy reaching £6.8 billion last month and productivity growth four times the national average. The region has plans to redevelop Central station to drive investment and growth.
Dan Tomlinson
I am delighted to inform my hon. Friend that my conference calendar already includes a meeting with local leaders in Liverpool to talk about what we can do to back growth and investment in his city and region. I have been in conversations already with the mayor of the city region about the things that he wants to work on and focus on to boost economic growth, and that includes the Liverpool Central development.
Session: Private Investment Local Leaders 2026-09-08
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What the evidential basis is for his Department's policy on rent control. There is an injection of housing investment in some parts of my constituency, but sadly it is by landlords who are taking advantage of low house prices to turn family homes and whole terraces into houses in multiple occupation, charging sky-high rents for people to live in single bedrooms, undermining the local community.
Context
Dan Carden questions the evidential basis for the Department's stance on rent control, citing international examples and local housing investment issues.
Matthew Pennycook
I can assure my hon. Friend that I have looked at a wealth of evidence, particularly international evidence, of what the impact of first and second-generation rent controls are, as well as more subtle forms of rent control, which can have differential impacts on different groups. Such controls typically benefit settled and better-off tenants more than those looking for a home or needing to move.
Session: Rent Control Evidential Basis
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What the evidential basis is for his Department's policy on rent control. There is an injection of housing investment in some parts of my constituency, but sadly it is by landlords who are taking advantage of low house prices to turn family homes and whole terraces into houses in multiple occupation, charging sky-high rents for people to live in single bedrooms, undermining the local community.
Context
Dan Carden questions the evidential basis for the Department's stance on rent control, citing international examples and local housing investment issues.
Matthew Pennycook
I can assure my hon. Friend that I have looked at a wealth of evidence, particularly international evidence, of what the impact of first and second-generation rent controls are, as well as more subtle forms of rent control, which can have differential impacts on different groups. Such controls typically benefit settled and better-off tenants more than those looking for a home or needing to move.
Session: Rent Control Evidential Basis
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My constituents living in private rented accommodation are looking to the Government to take action on the cost of living, rent and utility bills. The Government have legislated to stop above-market increases in rent but could the Minister give me more information about consulting on charging tenants a fee to go to a tribunal? What do the Government expect this policy to do to tackle high rents?
Context
The Government have legislated to stop above-market increases in rent and are consulting on charging tenants a fee to go to a tribunal.
Sarah Sackman
The Renters Rights Act 2025 represents the biggest expansion of renters' rights in a generation, but of course, rights are not worth the paper they are written on unless they are enforceable. That is why the role of appeals, including to our property tribunal, is so important. My hon. Friend will know that court fees are a feature right across our system, but we will ensure that fees do not represent a barrier to access to justice.
Session: Topical Questions
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Our history is as a naval power, and immediate threats to the UK include threats to undersea cables, the activities of illegal Russian shadow tankers and the closure of the strait of Hormuz. For the shipbuilding industry to thrive on our shores, it needs consistent contracts throughout the year to ensure that we have the skills and workforce in place. What is the Minister doing to ensure that we get to that position?
Luke Pollard
I thank my hon. Friend for his advocacy for shipbuilding. That is precisely why this Government have brought together all Departments with a shipbuilding interest in a cross-Government effort to refresh our shipbuilding process, and why Defence is leading that work by delivering more orders for our shipyards.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why has the government's programme failed to recognise the impact on organisations across Liverpool Walton? We could do something that the Tories and Reform cannot do and that previous Labour Governments did: as with Harold Wilson's fair rents, we could have rent controls in deprived areas with poor housing stock. Will Ministers at least consider a pilot?
Context
Private market rents are most extortionate in working-class communities, where people can still buy a terraced house for around £70,000.
Matthew Pennycook
The Government do not support rent controls. The provisions of our Renters' Rights Act 2025 will ensure that landlords can increase rent only once a year and that tenants are empowered to challenge unreasonable rent increases.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am grateful for that update. The brutal Iranian regime is dying and a new Iran is being born. We can assist that process, in the Iranian people’s interests and ours, by banning the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. If the Foreign Secretary requires a new legislative instrument for a proscription mechanism for state and state-linked bodies, will she bring that to the House? Will the Foreign Office prepare for the day after, convening Opposition parties to cohere them and mobilise expertise to decide on a future democratic—
Context
In the context of the ongoing Ukraine war, Dan Carden highlights the recent missile attacks by Russia on Ukrainian cities targeting energy infrastructure.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
My hon. Friend will know that as Home Secretary I commissioned a review of the legislation which recommended changes, because existing legislation is drawn up around terrorism, and we need to be able to deal with state-backed threats. I assure him that both I and the Home Secretary take the threats from Iran extremely seriously.
Session: Topical Questions
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I regularly hear from constituents who are being pushed out of their homes by rip-off hikes from unscrupulous landlords. The average rents in Liverpool have risen by 8%, well above the average for England. I welcome the Government’s action through the Renters’ Rights Act to tackle unfair rent increases, but it concerns me that market rents will be used as a benchmark to prevent unaffordable rents from rising. How will the Government review the effectiveness of these measures, and, if necessary, will they consider further action in due course?
Context
The MP noted that constituents are being pushed out of their homes due to unreasonable rent increases by unscrupulous landlords. He mentioned average rents in Liverpool have risen by 8%, exceeding the national average for England.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
We will of course keep the implementation of the Act under continual review, but, as I have said, it allows tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases at the first-tier tribunal, which will make a judgment on whether the increases are fair and meet that market-rate definition. We have, however, made it clear that the Government do not support the introduction of rent controls, including rent stabilisation measures, for the reasons that we debated at some length during the passage of the Bill.
Session: Private Rent Inflation
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Archbishop Beck Catholic college in my constituency has lost £700 per pupil since 2011, while the number of disadvantaged pupils has risen from 38% to 52%. It is an excellent school with strong leadership, creating great outcomes for pupils. Will the Minister look specifically at the funding calculation for Archbishop Beck and say a little bit about how she is getting resources into deprived areas?
Context
Archbishop Beck Catholic college in Liverpool Walton has experienced significant funding cuts per pupil and an increase in disadvantaged pupils.
Georgia Gould
I am really grateful for the work of that school. I set out today the further investment we are putting into schools, including into special educational needs. We are focusing our funding on all schools, but particularly on supporting schools in the most deprived areas.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank my hon. Friend for his question and for his campaigning on this important issue—and indeed for speaking so honestly about his own experiences during his time in this House. An additional £267 million has been invested this year to improve the quality and capacity of drug and alcohol treatment and recovery. We are committed to correcting the years of disinvestment in treatment and recovery services and ensuring that people can access the support they need.
Context
The Advertising Standards Authority ruled against seven companies for misleading families in the drug and alcohol treatment sector. These companies take up to 40% of fees paid directly to treatment providers, exploiting vulnerable individuals.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Andrew Gwynne)
Attempting to exploit people with addictions is reprehensible. Free drug and alcohol treatment is available in every part of the country, and I urge anyone who is struggling right now to visit the NHS addiction website. The Care Quality Commission has said that it could take legal action against companies misusing its logo, and Google has said it would remove search listings from these companies. I am more than happy to meet my hon. Friend to see what more we can do to stop this outrageous activity.
Session: Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment
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The Secretary of State and the Minister have put Britain’s military production capability at the heart of the Government’s support for Ukraine. I wonder what opportunities the Minister spies for transatlantic co-operation in that regard. May I make a special plea that the whole defence team discuss plans for developing our industrial capacity with regional mayors so that jobs and factories can be set up and developed around the country, including in regions like my own?
Context
Discussion on the UK's industrial capacity for supporting Ukraine and regional collaboration.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
It is vital that we continue to support Ukraine and build our industrial capacity in the United Kingdom and across the NATO alliance to ensure that Ukraine can fight not only tonight but tomorrow. Part of that is about increasing the industrial supply of not just UK manufacturers but indigenous manufacturers within Ukraine itself. Building that greater industrial capacity is something that the Government take seriously. That is why the Secretary of State and the Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry have published the outline of the defence industrial strategy. We will continue to work with partners at both national and international level—and additionally at a regional and local level—to ensure that we have the industrial capacity and skills required to restock our own supply and continue to support Ukraine.
Session: Ukraine Military Support
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One way to reduce pressure on prison capacity is by treating offenders with drug and alcohol addictions outside the prison estate, which reduces prisoner numbers and reoffending. May I encourage the Secretary of State to get hold of Dame Carol Black's internal review of treatment and recovery?
Context
Reducing prisoner numbers through rehabilitation could reduce reoffending.
Shabana Mahmood
Good quality work on rehabilitation is critical. 80% of offending is reoffending, which is too high. The first step is to address capacity issues in prisons that are more than 99% full. Once we have done so, we will build on recommendations made by experts.
Session: Prison Capacity
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I know from visiting schools in my Walton constituency that some of the most difficult challenges that teachers face often come from the difficult socioeconomic challenges of the area spilling over into schools, so I welcome the Government's focus on children's wellbeing. Most important to my constituents will be the roll-out of free breakfast clubs. Could the Minister tell me a little bit about how and when they will be rolled out?
Context
The MP references visiting schools in his constituency and the challenges faced by teachers due to socioeconomic issues spilling into schools. He welcomes the Government's focus on children's wellbeing.
Stephen Morgan
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. Breakfast clubs are about more than just food: they provide opportunities for children to play, to learn and to socialise at the start of the school day. The Government are giving parents more choice in childcare, and are supporting families with the cost of living crisis. Our plans for breakfast clubs will remove barriers to opportunity by ensuring that every child of primary school age, no matter their circumstances, is well prepared for school.
Session: Children's Wellbeing Bill
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The Secretary of State visited the Spellow library hub after the riots to see challenges faced by the community. Will he work with Cabinet colleagues and local city council to ensure real improvement is delivered for County Road residents by the end of this Parliament?
Context
There were riots in the Spellow library hub area, affecting businesses. The constituency needs support for a vibrant high street, investment in new housing, skills training, and employment opportunities.
Jonathan Reynolds
Following the visit, we are collaborating closely with the Association of British Insurers for quick claims processing. Businesses can still seek help under the Riot Compensation Act 2016.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister think that a regulator that allows the poorest to pay the highest bills, and that has overseen the doubling of energy bills since 2021 and the collapse of 30 energy companies in the same period, is fit for purpose?
Context
The question discusses the poor regulation by Ofgem leading to rising energy prices and company collapses.
Amanda Solloway
We are ensuring that energy businesses are able to survive, and not just through the price caps. This is also a matter for Ofgem.
Session: Topical Questions
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Despite the energy ombudsman ruling that one of my constituents should not have been placed on a prepayment meter due to her vulnerabilities, she has not received any compensation. Only 150,000 investigations were carried out and only 2,500 cases are due compensation, making it 1%. Why is the number so small? Could it be that energy suppliers themselves, overseen by Ofgem, are deciding who is entitled to these payments?
Context
The energy ombudsman has ruled that some constituents should not have been placed on prepayment meters due to vulnerabilities. Only 1,502 out of 150,000 assessments resulted in compensation.
Amanda Solloway
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question; the forced installation of prepayment meters is unacceptable, and the Government have done everything to counteract it. The energy suppliers are responsible for paying compensation, they carried out 150,000 investigations, in 2,500 cases compensation is due, and instead of 1%, the actual figure on compensation is 60%.
Session: Prepayment Meters Compensation
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What estimate do you have of the number of households receiving compensation after being involuntarily fitted with prepayment meters? Despite the energy ombudsman ruling that one of my constituents should not have been placed on a prepayment meter due to her vulnerabilities, she has not received any compensation. Only 150,000 assessments were made and only 2,500 cases are due compensation, making it 1%. Why is the number so small? Could it be that energy suppliers decide who receives payments?
Context
The energy ombudsman has ruled that some constituents should not have been placed on prepayment meters due to vulnerabilities. Only 1,502 out of 150,000 assessments resulted in compensation.
Amanda Solloway
The energy suppliers are responsible for paying compensation. They have carried out 150,000 assessments so far, with 2,500 customers due compensation and 1,502 payments made, with another 1,000 planned. I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question; the forced installation of prepayment meters is unacceptable, and the Government have done everything to counteract it. The actual figure on compensation is 60%, not 1%.
Session: Prepayment Meters Compensation
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The OBR has said that this will be the worst Parliament on record for living standards and the only one in which they have fallen: people are poorer after 14 years of this Government. We do not need fiscal tweaks; this economy needs renewal. It needs to bring in investment on a major scale, and a new age of education, training and employment in the real economy. My constituents cannot afford to wait while the Tory party looks for its polling fortunes to change. Have we not now reached the point where the best thing for the economy is a general election?
Context
The OBR concluded this will be the worst Parliament on record for living standards and the only one in which they have fallen.
Nigel Huddleston
I completely disagree with the hon. Gentleman's explanation. Not only will I repeat that our constituents completely understand the difficult global circumstances, with the pandemic and the cost of living challenges following the invasion of Ukraine, but I can say that we have grown faster since 2010 than many other major economies.
Session: Tax Policies Impact on Living Standards
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The Government will move thousands of my constituents across to universal credit over the next year. They will be forced to wait five weeks for their first payment or up to nine weeks if they receive child or working tax credits. According to DWP data, 60% of the people across Merseyside who are in that situation will take out an advance loan. Does the Minister think it right that my constituents, who are among the most deprived in the country, should be pushed into debt or face weeks without the bare minimum that they need to afford the essentials?
Context
According to DWP data, 60% of people across Merseyside who are being migrated to universal credit will take out an advance loan. This could push constituents into debt or leave them without essentials for weeks.
Jo Churchill
The plan is to roll out those migration notices by 31 March. We intend to publish data for the hon. Gentleman's constituency. We are committed to ensuring that the transition works as smoothly as possible for everyone.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have been clear that we must be bolder, seizing hundreds of billions of pounds of frozen Russian assets to support the Ukraine war effort, and that we must get hold of the interest on those assets. In February, the Prime Minister said, 'And then, with the G7, we must find lawful ways to seize the assets themselves and get those funds to Ukraine too.' Can the Minister update the House on progress within the G7?
Context
There is a drive to seize and use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's military efforts.
Leo Docherty
The hon. Gentleman is right to ask that question. We are making progress, but he is also right to point out that what we do needs to be lawful. That is the key thing, and that is what we are working on.
Session: Topical Questions
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Children from the most deprived areas are less likely to be identified compared with similar children from more affluent areas. What measures are being taken to ensure that children in constituencies such as mine are identified early?
Context
The MP is concerned about the early identification and support for children with special educational needs.
Gillian Keegan
Early identification is key, and we have many schemes to ensure local authorities have financing to improve the number of places in mainstream schools and special educational needs schools.
Session: Support for Children with SEND
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I am concerned about the steps being taken to improve support for children with special educational needs and disabilities. What are you doing to ensure they receive adequate assistance?
Context
The MP is concerned about the support available for children with special educational needs in his constituency.
Gillian Keegan
There is nothing more important than ensuring that everyone in our country, regardless of need, gets the very best education possible. Our special educational needs and alternative provision improvement plan will ensure that all children get the support they need to reach their potential. We have opened 108 special free schools, including 15 since September, and launched a £70 million change programme to test and refine our systemic reforms, benefiting every region in England.
Session: Support for Children with SEND
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There are 14,000 families waiting on Liverpool's housing register. Temporary accommodation costs have risen from £250,000 to £19 million in three years. When will the Secretary of State address this emergency?
Context
Liverpool has a significant housing waiting list of 14,000 families and the cost of providing temporary accommodation has surged from £250,000 to £19 million over three years. The council leader has written twice to the Secretary of State for help.
Michael Gove
I appreciate Liverpool MPs' advocacy for those in temporary accommodation and have been working with the Mayor to look at a strategic futures advisory panel report that will unlock additional housing and investment. I look forward to discussing this with the hon. Member.
Session: Topical Questions
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My right hon. Friend is correct about the importance of rehabilitation through employment and stable accommodation. Can we make subsistence payments available upon a prisoner's release?
Context
The Minister has previously mentioned initiatives to reduce reoffending through employment and stable accommodation.
Edward Argar
My hon. Friend makes an interesting suggestion, and I am happy to meet him if that would be helpful to discuss further.
Session: Reoffending
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I have a constituent with cerebral palsy who is facing repeated inaccurate reassessments for PIP. Despite this lifelong condition, she lost her PIP mobility due to an inaccurate decision. How can a system demand that people hurt themselves regularly just to receive the support they are entitled to?
Context
A constituent of Dan Carden's has cerebral palsy and faces repeated unnecessary reassessments for the personal independence payment, losing her mobility support after a recent assessment.
Tom Pursglove
I would want to see the details of this case before commenting. The Government is focused on reforming the system through White Paper reforms to prevent people with conditions unlikely to improve from having to go through repeat assessments.
Session: Topical Questions
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As the Minister knows, last month I introduced my ten-minute rule Bill, the Care Supporters Bill, to make sure that we recognise in law the value of the care of a loved one. Will her consultation differentiate between a care supporter and a visitor? Currently, the Care Quality Commission does not investigate individual cases. Will it have the power to do that in future?
Context
The hon. Member introduced his ten-minute rule Bill, the Care Supporters Bill, to ensure that care supporters are recognised in law and have legal standing. The current lack of investigation by the Care Quality Commission on individual cases is an issue.
Helen Whately
First, I commend the hon. Member for his campaign on this issue. He has been a powerful advocate and draws on his own experience, as do I. He is probably asking me to pre-empt the outcome of the consultation. I encourage him and others concerned about this matter to put their views into that consultation, and we will respond once it is closed.
Session: Care Settings Family Visits
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What steps he is taking to ensure that people in care settings are permitted family visits. The national guidance is generally followed but there is concern about potential restrictions affecting families' ability to visit their loved ones in care homes, hospitals, and hospices.
Context
The issue concerns the importance of allowing family members to visit loved ones in care homes, hospitals, and hospices. National guidance is followed by most health and care providers.
Helen Whately
I know how important it is for people in care homes, hospitals and hospices to see their family and friends. The majority of health and care providers follow national guidance. I do not want anyone to worry about not being able to visit a loved one, which is why in June we launched a consultation to change the law on visiting.
Session: Care Settings Family Visits
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I listened carefully to the Minister's answer. Liverpool, Walton is the most deprived constituency in the whole of England, yet the annual gap between local housing allowance and the cheapest 30% of properties now stands at over £1,500. My casework contains more and more heartbreaking stories of families unable to afford the cost of their housing. People need their Government to act on rising private rents and the lack of decent homes: to raise the allowances and take control on rents in the short term, but to increase the supply of housing in the long term. What is this Government's plan?
Context
The local housing allowance is under scrutiny due to rising rental costs and the gap between LHA and rent in Liverpool Walton.
Mims Davies
Mr Speaker, may I just confirm that the LHA rates were boosted by a £1 billion funding increase in 2020? I recognise that rents are increasing, and it is a challenging fiscal environment. Benefits for those of working age or with disability benefits have been increased in line with inflation for 2023-24. The benefit cap has also increased. However, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is focused on addressing these challenges.
Session: Local Housing Allowance
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I listened carefully to the Minister's answer. Liverpool, Walton is the most deprived constituency in the whole of England, yet the annual gap between local housing allowance and the cheapest 30% of properties now stands at over £1,500. My casework contains more and more heartbreaking stories of families unable to afford the cost of their housing. People need their Government to act on rising private rents and the lack of decent homes: to raise the allowances and take control on rents in the short term, but to increase the supply of housing in the long term. What is this Government's plan?
Context
The local housing allowance policy is under scrutiny due to rising rental costs in Liverpool Walton, the most deprived constituency in England. The annual gap between LHA and rent for 30% of properties exceeds £1,500.
Mims Davies
Mr Speaker, may I just confirm that the LHA rates were boosted by a £1 billion funding increase in 2020? I recognise that rents are increasing, and it is a challenging fiscal environment. Benefits for those of working age or with disability benefits have been increased in line with inflation for 2023-24. The benefit cap has also increased. However, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is focused on addressing these challenges.
Session: Local Housing Allowance
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In the tragic case of Awaab Ishak, he died due to prolonged exposure to mould and despite several complaints from his family, his social landlord took no action, blaming it on the family. The coroner highlighted that damp and mould are significant issues in private rentals too. Despite this, there is no decent homes standard or equivalent to Awaab's law for private rented sector. Will the Secretary of State go back to Department and put proper measures ensuring decent homes?
Context
Refers to the case of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home. Despite multiple complaints over years, no action was taken by the social landlord.
Rachel Maclean
The Government is improving quality properties all across the private rented sector. A decent homes standard will be introduced at the first legislative opportunity, and we are going to end section 21 evictions which cause homelessness.
Session: Awaab’s Law Private Rented Sector
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May I remind the House of the tragic case of Awaab Ishak? He was a two-year-old boy living with his parents in Rochdale, who tragically and needlessly died due to prolonged exposure to mould. The coroner stated that damp and mould are significant issues in the private rented sector. The decent homes standard will not appear in the Renters (Reform) Bill, and there is no equivalent to Awaab's law for the private sector. Will the Secretary of State ensure proper measures are put in place?
Context
Refers to the tragic case of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home. Despite multiple complaints, no action was taken by the social landlord.
Rachel Maclean
The House is united in expressing sincere sympathies about Awaab Ishak's tragedy. The Government is improving quality properties across the private rented sector and will introduce a decent homes standard at the first legislative opportunity.
Session: Awaab’s Law Private Rented Sector
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According to this week's inflation data, the cost of sugar and some cooking oils is up nearly 50%, but the prices that people see in the supermarkets for some products are up 100% and above. This has led to record levels of need for support at food banks.
Context
Food banks are facing record levels of need for support, with the Trussell Trust distributing more than 1 million parcels to children between April 2022 and March 2023.
Mark Spencer
The household support fund has been introduced with a huge £26 billion package of support for the most vulnerable households. This fund addresses pressures felt by people due to global issues such as Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, which has caused significant inflationary pressure in food prices.
Session: Food Price Inflation Food Bank Use
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of food price inflation on levels of demand for emergency parcels from food banks? According to this week's inflation data, the cost of sugar and some cooking oils is up nearly 50%, but the prices that people see in the supermarkets for some products are up 100% and above. This has led to record levels of need for support at food banks.
Context
Food banks are facing record levels of need for support, with the Trussell Trust distributing more than 1 million parcels to children between April 2022 and March 2023.
Mark Spencer
The household support fund has been introduced with a huge £26 billion package of support for the most vulnerable households. This fund addresses pressures felt by people due to global issues such as Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, which has caused significant inflationary pressure in food prices.
Session: Food Price Inflation Food Bank Use
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What assessment has the Secretary of State made of the merits of integrating mutual recognition of higher education qualifications into trade negotiations?
Context
The question concerns the integration of mutual recognition agreements into trade deals with Latin America, particularly focusing on student and language exchanges.
Kemi Badenoch
We do look at mutual recognition for qualifications in trade deals, but most of the time they tend to be in separate agreements. Because of the nature of how free trade agreements are structured, we try to ensure that they are focused specifically on trade.
Session: CPTPP Impact on UK Businesses
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Will the Foreign Secretary speak with Cabinet colleagues and set out a plan for youth negotiators forming an integral part of the UK's delegation at COP28?
Context
The voices of young people should be heard in climate negotiations. They are set to inherit the future and their concerns must be addressed.
James Cleverly
I commend the hon. Gentleman for his action in this area and I took the opportunity at COP26 and COP27 to meet young climate activists, and it is incredibly important that we find some way of both formally and informally having their voices heard.
Session: Topical Questions
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If the energy price guarantee is to come to an end in June, surely the logical next step is a social tariff. People have become used to social tariffs from their mobile phone providers and broadband. What is the Secretary of State doing to make sure energy companies introduce a social tariff to target support at the most vulnerable in society?
Context
The MP inquired about the end of the energy price guarantee and proposed a social tariff to support vulnerable households.
Grant Shapps
Just to correct the record, it comes to an end in April 2024, so that guarantee remains in place. Wholesale prices in the meantime, fortunately, have been falling—I noticed that they are £98 per therm this morning. We do think that things like a social tariff could be very helpful and the Chancellor has undertaken to look at that as well.
Session: Energy Price Guarantee Extension
View All Questions -->
I welcome the Secretary of State's visit to Mexico last month. If she had the chance to do some shopping, she may know that the largest chain of department stores in Mexico is called Liverpool, founded in 1847 and named after my home city and port for all the merchandise that was shipped through it. There is huge potential for infrastructure building in Mexico, including in clean technology. What is her Department doing to link UK industry to those opportunities and that potential in Mexico?
Context
The Secretary of State visited Mexico last month. There is potential for infrastructure building in clean technology.
Kemi Badenoch
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. I am afraid I did not have any time whatever during that trip to do any shopping. It was all about the UK-Mexico free trade agreement, which will do exactly what he wants.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What more can be done to ensure that businesses registered in the UK uphold human rights and do not commit environmental damage? Will the Minister look again at this case?
Context
The Cerrejón coalmine in La Guajira, Colombia has caused widespread environmental damage and displacement of indigenous communities. The case highlights the need for stronger regulations to ensure businesses uphold human rights and do not commit environmental damage.
Kevin Hollinrake
The hon. Gentleman raises an important case. The UK is a signatory to the OECD's declaration on international investment and multinational enterprises, a voluntary set of standards intended to promote responsible business conduct worldwide. My Department is the UK's national contact point on these guidelines, allowing anyone who thinks there are problems to make a complaint, which will then be investigated.
Session: Corporate Responsibility
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has her Department made on the effectiveness of businesses' actions regarding corporate responsibility?
Context
The effectiveness of businesses' actions in corporate responsibility is being assessed.
Kevin Hollinrake
The Government are rightly proud of the record of UK companies when it comes to corporate responsibility. The UK is home to 10 of the world's top 100 companies, ranked by social responsibility. These standards are reflected in the UK being considered by business leaders to be the world's third most important country for investment.
Session: Corporate Responsibility
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Care Settings: Right to Maintain Contact
24 June 2025
Responding: Ashley Dalton
Main Concerns
['The debate addresses the enforced separation of families during the covid-19 pandemic, leaving many elderly and sick individuals without essential human contact. Stories from constituents like Val and Gemma highlight the suffering caused by isolation in care settings.']
Specific Asks
['Campaigners are fighting for Gloria’s law to maintain a legal right to at least one care supporter who can provide support and advocacy in health and care settings, ensuring no one is alone when they need help the most.']
UK’s Relationship with Mexico
07 September 2023
Responding: David Rutley
Main Concerns
["Mr. Dan Carden expressed concern about the historical context of UK-Mexico relations, highlighting that while there have been positive developments in recent years, there is a need for mutual respect and co-operation. He also mentioned significant challenges facing Mexico such as femicide, disappearances, drug-related violence, and climate change impacts including droughts and food insecurity. Mr. Corbyn expressed appreciation for Mexico's historical contributions and its efforts to provide sanctuary for exiles from various countries, highlighting the nation's role in welcoming refugees during significant political upheavals like the Spanish Civil War and the Chilean coup d'état. He also noted that Mexico faces massive problems related to corruption and human rights abuses, citing examples such as the Ayotzinapa 43 case involving missing students and Claudia Uruchurtu's disappearance."]
Specific Asks
["Mr. Carden urges the government to ensure that Mexico feels prioritised in UK's diplomatic efforts and to hold any trade agreement negotiations with scrutiny to support labour rights and environmental protection. Mr. Corbyn urged the Government to recognise and support ongoing investigations into cases of human rights violations in Mexico, stressing the importance of continued efforts to bring about justice and acknowledging the severity of these issues."]
Private Rented Sector: Regulation
24 May 2023
Responding: Rachel Maclean
Main Concerns
["The private rented sector is plagued by insecure tenure, unaffordable rents, poor housing quality, and the threat of homelessness. A constituent received a section 21 notice, leaving her and her family homeless with two months to find new accommodation and adjust to a new school and medical services for her non-verbal son with severe learning disabilities. The Renters (Reform) Bill will correct some power imbalances but may come too late for many affected by the current system's failures."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should extend the no-reletting period to a minimum of 12 months, increase rent tribunal utility, raise local housing allowance, address blanket bans on renting to those in receipt of housing benefit, and ensure landlords deal with serious hazards promptly as they do for social tenants.']
Government Alcohol Strategy 2012
18 January 2023
Responding: Chris Philp
Main Concerns
["The harms of alcohol have not decreased in the past decade; instead, they have increased. Deaths caused by alcoholic liver disease are up by a third and alcohol-related deaths have risen by 27% in the last two years alone. Alcohol-specific hospital admissions in England exceed 980,000 annually and one in five children is living with an adult who has an alcohol use disorder. The Government's failure to deliver on its promises has led to a crisis."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should conduct an independent review of alcohol leading to a new strategy for the future that focuses on evidence-based interventions to reduce harm.']
Section 21 Evictions — [Caroline Nokes in the Chair]
25 October 2022
Responding: Andrew Stephenson
Main Concerns
["Mr. Dan Carden is concerned about the detrimental effects of section 21 evictions on private renters, citing over 200,000 renters being evicted since 2019 and a 52% increase in no-fault evictions between April and June 2022. He highlights that such evictions cause immense personal, mental, and financial costs to tenants and their families, and he mentions a constituent's story where anxiety levels skyrocketed after receiving an eviction notice."]
Specific Asks
['Mr. Carden asks the government to provide a clear date for introducing legislation to abolish no-fault evictions, investigate incentives to sell properties with tenants in situ, work closely with councils to help them create and buy more social housing, and unfreeze housing benefit which is currently lagging behind rent increases.']
Prison-based Addiction Treatment Pathways
02 March 2022
Responding: Gillian Keegan
Main Concerns
['Too many people with drug dependency are cycling in and out of prison without effective treatment. In 2019, 48% of men surveyed by the inspectorate who reported having a drug problem said it was easy to get drugs, and the proportion of prisoners who developed a drug problem while in custody more than doubled between 2015 and 2020. The decline in recovery services mirrors that in the community, further exacerbated by the pandemic.']
Specific Asks
['The Minister should ensure there is access to treatment services within prison and on release, prioritise transition between prison and the community, commit to restoring accredited addiction and recovery programmes to former levels, and make them available in every prison. The Government must take seriously the challenge of turning people away from drugs and crime.']
Dame Carol Black’s Independent Review of Drugs Report
27 October 2021
Responding: Maggie Throup
Main Concerns
['The report concludes that the current provision for drug treatment and recovery is not fit for purpose. It highlights a significant funding gap, with drug misuse costing upwards of £20 billion annually while spending on prevention and treatment stands at just £650 million. Drug-related deaths have hit an all-time high, rising 60% in the last decade. Additionally, there are issues with stigma, fragmented services, and inadequate support for those suffering from co-occurring mental health issues.']
Specific Asks
["The Government is urged to find £1.78 billion over five years to implement Dame Carol Black's recommendations fully. If unable to provide the full amount, it should at least target areas most in need and pilot a whole-systems approach. The money must not be thinly spread but directed where it can make the biggest impact."]
Covid-19: NAO Report on Government Procurement
09 December 2020
Responding: Julia Lopez
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the mismanagement of procurement risks during the pandemic, including conflicts of interest and lack of transparency. The National Audit Office report highlights issues such as £10.5 billion being awarded in contracts without competition, direct awards to suppliers like PestFix and Ayanda Capital that did not meet NHS specifications, and the awarding of contracts to businesses with no prior experience or established family-run companies being overlooked for contracts while Tory-linked firms received them instead.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to end the VIP lane for fast-tracked companies, return to competitive procurement processes, publish details of fast-tracked companies and their sources of referral, implement NAO recommendations, embed open contracting systems in procurement processes, and establish an effective conflict of interest regime with a publicly accessible database.']
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East: Economic Update
24 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Youth Unemployment
17 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East
17 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill 2026-01-26
26 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm that the Government’s plans for the Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill are secure despite criticisms? The urgency lies in concerns over nation...
Iran Protests 2026-01-19
19 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the British Government’s response to the Iranian regime’s brutal crackdown on protests? The UK is deeply concerned about reports of protesters being killed in cold blood and ...
Iran 2026-01-13
13 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Venezuela 2026-01-05
05 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Blood Transfusions during the Falklands War 2025-11-11
11 November 2025
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
It is an honour to follow the debate we just had in this House on remembrance and the contribution of the armed forces, and to have joined the public in marking Remembrance Sunday at St George’s Hall ...
Combat Sports for Children Safeguarding 2025-07-08
08 July 2025
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this debate on safeguarding children in combat sports. I do so with a heavy heart and a profound sense of responsibility, because today I speak for a young co...
Attendance
60.2%
59 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
22
22.4% of votes
No Votes
37
37.8% of votes
Abstentions
39
39.8% 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
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
3
PMQs Asked
75
Ministerial Questions Asked
74
House of Commons Debates Involved
8
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 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-18% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+460% above average
This MP:
75
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+218% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1423% above average
This MP:
74
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 (%)
-13% below average
This MP:
60.2
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 Dan Carden's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.