Daniel Kawczynski
MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
How can more be done to help Shropshire Council deal with rising adult social care costs given that they are facing significant pressures in rural areas?
Context
Shropshire has a disproportionately ageing population, and the council is struggling to meet rising costs of adult social care.
Rishi Sunak
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for the work he does representing his constituents. He is right about the pressures that are faced, particularly in rural areas, which is why the Government provided £600 million of additional funding for local government across the country, ensuring an increase of around 7.5% in resources available to invest in social care, but also an extra addition to the rural services delivery grant—an acknowledgement of the challenges of providing services in rural areas—with more funding for those rural councils to deliver.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not specify additional measures beyond existing funding allocations.
£600 Million Of Additional Funding
Extra Addition To The Rural Services Delivery Grant
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister knows that I set up and chair the caucus of 35 Conservative Members of Parliament who have Britain's longest river flowing through their constituencies—the River Severn. We have submitted a business case to the Chancellor for £500 million to finally tame the River Severn, and I know that his officials are currently looking at those proposals. To tame the River Severn would lead to a gross-value-added uplift in the west midlands of over £150 billion. The Prime Minister has seen this week the horrendous damage and misery caused in Shropshire and all the way along the River Severn by the river flooding yet again. We really need to see in the spring Budget further assistance for communities such as mine finally to deal with these annual floods.
Context
The River Severn, which passes through numerous constituencies, has experienced repeated flooding events leading to significant damage and economic impact.
Rishi Sunak
I start by saying that my thoughts are with all those affected by the devastating impact of Storm Henk and the flooding that we have seen over the past week or two, including those in my hon. Friend's constituency. Action is already being undertaken under our six-year, £5.2 billion investment programme to better protect land across the River Severn catchment area and elsewhere, but I know the Minister responsible for flooding met my hon. Friend, along with the Environment Agency, in his constituency just before Christmas to discuss the specific plans he mentions. I know the Chancellor has received and started reviewing them. I assure my hon. Friend that the Environment Agency is working closely with other partners to explore his plans in more detail.
Assessment
Did not specify inclusion of additional funding but mentioned ongoing review
Session: PMQs
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I chair the caucus of 38 Conservative MPs who have Britain's longest river flowing through their constituencies. We presented a business case for £500 million to manage the river holistically. Our constituencies face flooding every year causing significant damage. Will the PM take an interest in this, as the business case shows a gross value added uplift of over £100 billion?
Context
The River Severn is causing annual flooding in constituencies, leading to business and community damage.
Rishi Sunak
I will make sure that the Chancellor does look at the business case. We have significantly increased funding for flood defences, to over £5 billion, protecting hundreds of thousands more homes.
Session: PMQs
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In 2016 we received over £300 million for A&E services modernisation in Shropshire. Six years later, the money hasn't been spent and no construction began. This leads to serious concern about our local NHS trust managers' quality. What can my right hon. Friend do to ensure this £312 million is finally used to improve A&E services?
Context
£312 million was secured for A&E modernisation but remains unspent and construction has not started, causing concerns about local NHS trust management.
Oliver Dowden
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend and know his constituents are anxious for building work to start soon. The Department of Health and Social Care works closely with NHS England and the trust to support scheme development. Plans will be submitted by the trust in coming months, and we will review them promptly.
Assessment
Did not commit to specific actions or timelines for spending £312 million
Session: PMQs
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The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will visit Shrewsbury at my invitation to hear about progress made by the River Severn Partnership and the Environment Agency in managing Britain's longest river, the River Severn. We now experience annual flooding with economic damage as a result. Will the Prime Minister secure additional funding so we can finally protect our communities from regular flooding?
Context
Annual flooding has become a regular occurrence in Shrewsbury, causing significant economic damage. The River Severn Partnership and the Environment Agency are working on solutions.
Rishi Sunak
The Government have doubled investment in flood defences to £5.2 billion over this Parliament, and I am looking forward to hearing back from the DEFRA Secretary after her visit.
Session: PMQs
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This year, we are investing nearly £190 billion in the NHS, and yet many of us see disturbing deficiencies within NHS management, no more so than in the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust. In 2018, my right hon. Friend and I secured £312 million for a major A&E modernisation in our local hospital trust, but, four years on, construction has still not started. What message can the Deputy Prime Minister give to the people of Shrewsbury as to how the Government can intervene to break the gridlock and finally allow the £312 million that we secured to be used to benefit the people of Shropshire and mid-Wales?
Context
In 2018, £312 million was secured for a major A&E modernisation in the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust but construction has not started. Four years on, people are awaiting improvements.
Dominic Raab
My hon. Friend is a doughty champion for his constituents, particularly on NHS services. The DHSC recently received the strategic outline case for the transformation of A&E services in Shrewsbury and Telford. It is still being processed, but I can tell him that the trust is aiming to present the full business case in 2023, with construction starting in the same year.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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I chair the caucus of 44 Conservative MPs who have the River Severn flowing through their constituencies. Will my right hon Friend help me and our caucus to find a long-term solution to managing Britain's longest river? In the meantime, we have put forward four opportunities for flood defences in Shrewsbury. Can he take an interest in these as Shrewsbury cannot afford another year of flooding?
Context
The MP notes that Shrewsbury has faced severe flooding from the River Severn for three consecutive years, affecting residents significantly. The MP chairs a caucus representing 44 Conservative MPs with constituencies along the River Severn.
Boris Johnson
We are working hard to implement remedial measures for those affected by flooding along the River Severn, including investing £5.2 billion in national flood defences.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not provide a specific commitment or timeline regarding long-term solutions or interest in Shrewsbury's proposed flood defence projects.
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister will be very pleased that Shrewsbury Conservatives are doing everything possible to help Neil Shastri-Hurst, the excellent candidate in North Shropshire. He will also know that the No. 1 issue affecting Salopians at the moment is the £312 million that we have secured for the modernisation of our A&E services. This has suffered terrible delays over the past eight years, leading to a worsening of our A&E services for local patients. Will he do everything possible to help us finally get it across the line so that we can provide safe A&E services for all the people of Shropshire and mid-Wales?
Context
Modernisation of A&E services has suffered delays, leading to worsening conditions for local patients.
Boris Johnson
That is one of the reasons why we are now investing £36 billion more in our NHS to help cope with the backlog and the extra winter pressures, particularly on A&E.
Assessment
Securing £312 million for A&E modernisation in Shropshire
Investing £36 Billion In Nhs
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister ensure that the Department looks at serious proposals to manage the River Severn holistically?
Context
Severe flooding in Shrewsbury, proposals for a more holistic approach to managing the River Severn.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to raise this. I will ensure that Defra, working with the Environment Agency, takes the necessary steps.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister intervene to help break deadlock on Future Fit programme, which is essential for patient safety?
Context
Telford Council has delayed the Future Fit programme over six years.
Boris Johnson
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will personally intervene to ensure this is done.
Session: PMQs
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I am speaking as chairman of several all-party parliamentary groups focusing on St Kitts and Nevis, Guyana and the Caribbean. Given these historic ties, we need a more tailored approach to trade with CARIFORUM than what is currently in place, which was copied from EU agreements. What specific steps will be taken to rescind protectionist measures imposed by the European Union?
Context
The MP is concerned about the current level of trade agreements between the UK and CARICOM, suggesting that existing arrangements need improvement.
Greg Hands
I thank my hon. Friend for his engagement in St Kitts, Guyana, and throughout the Caribbean, which remains a focus given current situations on its borders. The CARIFORUM trade agreement is valued by the UK; we have held an inaugural meeting of our economic partnership agreement body to ensure it benefits our trade with the region. I suggest arranging a meeting between my hon Friend and Jonathan Knott, who would be happy to discuss further possibilities for enhancing Caribbean trade.
Session: Caribbean Community Trade
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I am concerned about recent progress on increasing levels of trade with Caribbean Community member states. The copy-and-paste trade deals we inherited from the EU are insufficient for such an important region, which includes many British overseas territories and Commonwealth nations with historic ties to the UK. We require a tailored trade agreement with CARICOM that rescinds protectionist measures imposed by the EU.
Context
The MP is concerned about the current level of trade agreements between the UK and CARICOM, suggesting that existing arrangements need improvement.
Greg Hands
I am pleased to note that annual UK-CARICOM trade in 2023 was £5.1 billion, up by 11% on the previous year. We have had an inaugural meeting of our economic partnership agreement body with CARIFORUM, underscoring the importance of this trading relationship and exploring opportunities for further enhancement. I suggest arranging a meeting between my hon Friend and Jonathan Knott, the trade commissioner, who would be delighted to discuss Caribbean trade possibilities.
Session: Caribbean Community Trade
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Bearing in mind Lord Cameron's unique responsibility for Libya, following our intervention in that country during the Arab spring, what are the Government doing to help the Libyan Government to tackle the enormous fraud that is taking place from the sale of oil from the Libyan state oil company?
Context
There is significant fraud from the sale of oil by the Libyan state oil company.
David Rutley
We continue to work closely with the Government in Libya. Lord Ahmad and I keep in touch on these matters, and I will update my hon. Friend further.
Session: Topical Questions
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When will the Lion Hotel in Shrewsbury revert back to its normal use of housing tourists? We were given an assurance that it would be taken out of this use but have heard nothing further from the Minister or his Department.
Context
Shrewsbury is known for its listed buildings and attracts tourism. The Lion Hotel, a prominent hotel in Shrewsbury, has been used to house illegal migrants.
Tom Pursglove
We are committed to closing hotels that house illegal migrants. We have been tracking ahead of profile in closures, and more people are accommodated outside hotels. The Minister acknowledges the representations about the hotel in Shrewsbury.
Session: Asylum Hotels
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What progress his Department has made on closing asylum hotels. The Home Office has used hotels as a short-term measure, but there is a need for more information on the closures and their impact.
Context
The use of hotels for accommodating destitute asylum seekers has been a point of concern due to an increase in small boat arrivals. Many hotels have been converted into temporary accommodation.
Tom Pursglove
The Home Office has been clear that using hotels was a temporary measure. More than 64 hotels have closed by the end of January, and we are tracking ahead of profile when it comes to closing more hotels.
Session: Asylum Hotels
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I thank my hon. Friend for that answer, but in my 18 years of loyal service as a Conservative Member of Parliament, I have never been more disappointed, alarmed and angry about the conduct of the Foreign Office. In this matter, it is negotiating in a neocolonialistic way with Mauritius—an entity that is over 2,000 km away from the British Indian Ocean Territory—without consulting the indigenous people, the Chagossians, whom we expelled in 1968 to make way for an American air force base. The time has come for us to respect the right of self-determination and ensure that the Chagossians are allowed to return to the British Indian Ocean Territory, and for them to decide the future of those islands, rather than handing them to the Chinese client and puppet state of Mauritius, which would be highly counterintuitive to our AUKUS commitments.
Context
The question stems from dissatisfaction with the Foreign Office's handling of negotiations regarding the British Indian Ocean Territory, particularly concerning the treatment of indigenous people and the impact on national security.
David Rutley
The UK has been working in close co-operation with the US since negotiations began in November 2022, and it supports our approach. The UK, the US and Mauritius have all made clear that protecting the base on Diego Garcia, including by preventing foreign malign influence, is a top priority. We will ensure that any agreement achieves that. It is in our national interest and that of our partners, and it is vital for regional and global security.
Session: British Indian Ocean Territory
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What recent discussions has he had with his counterpart in Mauritius on the negotiations on the sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory?
Context
The question arises from discussions regarding the negotiations on the sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory, particularly in relation to meetings with Mauritian counterparts.
David Rutley
The Foreign Secretary has not yet had a chance to meet his Mauritian counterpart. However, the Prime Minister met the Mauritian Prime Minister at the G20 in September to assess the state of negotiations. They welcomed the progress made and agreed to meet again soon.
Session: British Indian Ocean Territory
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What additional assistance will the Government give to the agricultural sector to help this very important industry survive?
Context
Farmers in the MP's constituency and neighbouring areas are facing adverse effects due to rising energy costs.
Amanda Solloway
Farmers in Shropshire constituencies and across the UK have already benefited from the energy bill relief scheme, which ended on 31 March and provided more than £7.4 billion of support.
Session: Energy Bills Support Shropshire
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What steps her Department is taking to support people in Shropshire with their energy bills?
Context
The MP is concerned about the rising energy costs affecting people in his constituency.
Amanda Solloway
The Government are continuing to provide up to £900 of cost of living support throughout 2023-24 to help vulnerable households, which is an increase on the £650 that we provided the previous year, as well as targeted support such as £150 through the warm home discount.
Session: Energy Bills Support Shropshire
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When can give us more information and an update on the resources being afforded to the partnership to support landowners and others who can be part of that solution? The Minister visited Shrewsbury multiple times. There are funds available: the £25 million for natural flood management schemes may be of interest to farmers, and the environmental land management schemes include provisions for temporary storage capacity on farms.
Context
The Minister visited Shrewsbury and heard from the River Severn Partnership, which aims to find a holistic solution rather than just creating flood barriers.
Rebecca Pow
I thank my hon. Friend for the great work that he does with the partnership. Both the Secretary of State and I have visited his constituency. There are funds available: the £25 million for natural flood management schemes may be of interest to farmers, and the environmental land management schemes include provisions for temporary storage capacity on farms.
Session: Flood-risk Areas Rural Communities
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Does he accept that the Chagos islanders were treated disgracefully by the British Government in the 1970s? Does he agree they have fought to return home? Has he won international law recognition of their case, and will negotiations move forward rapidly?
Context
The Chagos islanders were forcibly removed from the islands in the 1970s, fought for their return, won international law recognition of their case, and the Mauritian Government won international law recognition for relinking the archipelago with Mauritius.
James Cleverly
We are pursuing negotiations in good faith. We have had three rounds of discussions to date and will meet again soon for further talks.
Session: Chagos Islands Sovereignty
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What recent discussions has he had with his counterpart in Mauritius on the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands? The MP noted that the British Indian Ocean Territory is vital for the AUKUS agreement and questioned why negotiations include a third-party country 2000 km away from the territory. He also asked about putting self-determination for all British overseas territories at the forefront, specifically regarding when Chagossians will get their say.
Context
The UK and Mauritius are engaged in negotiations over the exercise of sovereignty over British Indian Ocean Territory, including the Chagos archipelago.
James Cleverly
The UK is committed to agreements made in 1965, and while there are no plans for a referendum, we do consult with Chagossians. Issues raised remain at the heart of our thinking during negotiations.
Session: Chagos Islands Sovereignty
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One of the most important rail links into mid-Wales is through Shrewsbury. We are proud to be a border community, and of our links with Wales. We are campaigning for electrification of the line from Birmingham to Shrewsbury and beyond to Wales. Will the Minister take an interest in our project to try to electrify this vital artery for residents in mid-Wales?
Context
The MP campaigned for the electrification of the line from Birmingham to Shrewsbury and beyond to Wales, a vital rail artery.
David Davies
I will take an interest in that matter, but it is more for the Department for Transport than for my good self. I have taken an interest in the fact that a great deal of work is going on in the Forest of Dean area to ensure that commuters on both sides of the border can enjoy more reliable rail travel.
Session: Rail Infrastructure
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Does my hon. Friend agree that this Government have taken the necessary steps to prevent perpetrators of domestic violence from being able to question their victims in family court proceedings, and that the family court should never again be a place where victims can be subjected to further abuse from their perpetrators?
Context
Victims of domestic abuse face cross-examination by perpetrators in court proceedings.
Mike Freer
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 measure prohibits domestic abuse perpetrators and victims from cross-examining each other in person during certain family and civil proceedings. Family and civil courts engage a court-funded qualified legal representative to conduct cross-examinations in these cases, ensuring protection for those involved.
Session: Family Courts
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May I ask about the CPTPP? Unlike the European Union, this organisation is growing all the time as a percentage of global population and global GDP. When will we finally enter this very exciting trade agreement? When will we have a campaign across the United Kingdom to inform businesses of the tremendous opportunities of us joining the CPTPP?
Context
The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership is a growing organisation. There is excitement about joining it.
Kemi Badenoch
For the benefit of my hon. Friend's constituents, the CPTPP is the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership, the new trade bloc we hope to join imminently. We have reached a great stage in negotiations, but, as he will have heard in answer to questions from across the House, trade negotiations are not easy and we need to make sure we protect UK food standards.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank my hon. Friend for her answer. We secured nearly £19 million from the levelling-up fund for Shrewsbury town centre last week, but true levelling up requires rural parts of constituencies having broadband coverage comparable to metropolitan areas in terms of both coverage and speed. Can you specify what actions are being taken to improve broadband availability in Shropshire?
Context
The MP is concerned about the need to ensure that rural parts of constituencies receive broadband coverage comparable to metropolitan areas, crucial for the levelling-up agenda.
Julia Lopez
The hon. Friend is correct that digital connectivity is key to the levelling-up agenda. We are prioritising procurement for some tough-to-reach parts of the country previously poorly served by broadband. In Mid West Shropshire, a procurement will be awarded in April to June this year and I hope his constituents will benefit from it.
Session: Broadband Coverage Rural Areas
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As well as educating children about the horrors of the holocaust and the second world war, can we take the opportunity to educate children about the tremendous courage, bravery and sacrifices of the Righteous Among the Nations? One example was a member of my family who were shot by the Germans for protecting their Jewish friends and neighbours. We must give them inspiration from the fact that many people made the ultimate sacrifice.
Context
The MP wants to highlight the courage and sacrifices of individuals who saved Jews during the Holocaust, citing an example from his family history.
Robert Halfon
Hear, hear. It was very moving to hear about my hon. Friend's family experience and I agree that we must teach about righteous Gentiles who suffered while saving Jews. A Polish lady named Irena Sendler saved 2,000 Jewish children from the Warsaw ghettos, remembered in a special exhibition at the House of Commons.
Session: Holocaust Memorial Day
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What steps her Department is taking to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day in schools. The Government supports the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust and the Holocaust Educational Trust, yet there are 128 incidents of antisemitism in one year in higher education institutions.
Context
The MP is concerned about the current efforts to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day and the increasing incidents of antisemitism in higher education institutions.
Robert Halfon
Many schools and colleges already mark Holocaust Memorial Day with support from the Holocaust Educational Trust and the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. There are 128 incidents of antisemitism in higher education institutions, highlighting the importance of such commemorations.
Session: Holocaust Memorial Day
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Flooding has become an annual occurrence in Shrewsbury, with devastating consequences. I chair the caucus of 40 Conservative Members of Parliament who have the River Severn flowing through their constituencies. We are extremely grateful for the £40 million secured from DEFRA as seed investment for the River Severn Partnership. Last year Treasury officials visited to assess the potential uplift in gross value added if a holistic solution is found. What more can the Minister do to help secure that solution?
Context
Flooding has become an annual occurrence in Shrewsbury, with devastating consequences. The MP chairs a caucus of 40 Conservative MPs who have the River Severn flowing through their constituencies. The MP is grateful for £40 million secured from DEFRA as seed investment for the River Severn Partnership.
Rebecca Pow
I thank my hon. Friend for his work in Shrewsbury and the River Severn caucus, which brings together MPs up and down that important region. The River Severn Partnership has already benefited from significant funding for scheme development and useful pilots. We will continue to work closely with them.
Session: Flood Risk
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What steps her Department is taking to protect communities at risk of flooding. The MP noted that flooding has become an annual occurrence with devastating consequences, highlighting the importance of robust flood management schemes.
Context
The MP is concerned about the recurring threat of flooding in communities and the need for effective protective measures.
Rebecca Pow
We are investing a record £5.2 billion to deliver about 2,000 flood schemes benefiting every region in England. More than 349,000 properties have already been protected since 2015, and the Environment Agency has erected demountable flood barriers in response to recent flood alerts.
Session: Flood Risk
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Does the Minister agree that rural crime is linked to organised crime groups, particularly plant and livestock theft, burglary of firearms, fly-tipping, and poaching? How does sentencing reflect the seriousness of these crimes?
Context
Rural crime often involves organised crime targeting communities through various thefts and environmental damage.
Edward Argar
The Minister highlights several crimes impacting rural communities including plant theft, livestock theft, burglary targeting firearms, fly-tipping, and poaching. The courts have appropriate sentences available but sentencing guidelines require tougher penalties for offences involving high planning or committed for profit.
Session: Sentencing Policy Rural Crime
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Will the Secretary of State accept an invitation to visit the River Severn, meet with residents, and hear their concerns about flooding and discharge?
Context
Flood concerns on the River Severn and discharge issues have been raised by residents of Coton Hill.
Ranil Jayawardena
I would be delighted to visit at the earliest opportunity and for other Ministers to do the same.
Session: Sewage Discharge
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I thank my hon. Friend for that answer. As she says, a business case is going in to her Department in July to increase the line speed between Shrewsbury and Birmingham, which could be done by 2025 if signed off quickly. Will she use her good offices to agree the funding for the outline business case, so that we can finally level up for Shropshire with connectivity and speed to our regional capital, Birmingham?
Context
The upgrading and improving of railway infrastructure is being discussed for its economic benefits.
Wendy Morton
My hon. Friend is absolutely right that rail projects such as this are a vital way of levelling up and growing the economy right across every part of the country. I look forward to receiving the business case next month, and I would be very happy to meet my hon. Friend and stakeholders to discuss the scheme further.
Session: Shrewsbury-Black Country-Birmingham Railway
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of updating and improving the Shrewsbury-Black Country-Birmingham railway line on employment, training and educational opportunities for people in local communities?
Context
The potential economic benefits of upgrading railway infrastructure are under consideration.
Wendy Morton
We are expecting to receive a strategic outline business case from Midlands Connect in July, which I hope will set out the potential impacts of this scheme on employment, training and education.
Session: Shrewsbury-Black Country-Birmingham Railway
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Will the Government put additional information into the House of Commons Library on indigenous fertiliser production to help farmers understand this important issue?
Context
Concerns about the rising costs of fertilisers and potential closures of fertiliser plants in the UK.
George Eustice
CF Fertilisers maintains full order books until later this year, indicating ongoing production despite consolidating UK operations into one plant. No additional information was provided to the House of Commons Library.
Session: Food Strategy
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Bearing in mind that the NHS will receive approximately £180 billion of taxpayers' money this year, improving leadership and management in the NHS is extremely important, and nowhere more so than in the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust. Despite the trust obtaining £312 million from the Treasury to improve accident and emergency services, a lack of coherent leadership has resulted in no decision being taken as to how the money will be spent. With rising costs in the construction industry, that is of great concern to us. Will the Secretary of State intervene with our local hospital trust to make sure that the money is spent as expeditiously and quickly as possible?
Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of coherent leadership at the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust despite receiving £312 million from the Treasury to improve A&E services.
Sajid Javid
My hon. Friend is absolutely right about the importance of leadership. I am pleased to tell him that my Department has just received the strategic outline case for his local A&E's Future Fit programme, which is currently being reviewed. As he undoubtedly knows, the business case process is led by the trust and is already supported by some early funding; I understand that the trust aims to present the full business case by 2023, with construction starting in the same year and to be completed by 2028. The Minister for Health will shortly visit Shropshire and will meet my hon. Friend and other colleagues.
Session: Health and Social Care Leadership and Management
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We are campaigning in Shropshire for the electrification of the line from Birmingham to Shrewsbury. Will he take an interest in that scheme to ensure that the people of mid-Wales can benefit from quicker times to Birmingham via this electrification process?
Context
The MP highlights the interdependence between communities in Shropshire and Wales, especially regarding rail services.
Simon Hart
I am happy to meet my hon. Friend on that point and see what we can do to help with the campaign for the electrification of the line from Birmingham to Shrewsbury.
Session: Railway Infrastructure
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We are in negotiations about upgrades and new investments on the Shrewsbury to Wolverhampton line. Will you commit to looking at it with a view to electrifying as soon as possible?
Context
The MP seeks a commitment for the electrification of the Shrewsbury to Wolverhampton line.
Trudy Harrison
I can certainly give that commitment. My hon. Friend has met with the Rail Minister and will do so again. Midlands Connect is developing a business case for journey time improvements, assessing enhancements required, timescales for delivery and costs and benefits of the scheme.
Session: Net Zero Strategy Rail Electrification
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Will the Minister meet the River Severn Partnership to discuss funding solutions?
Context
Increasing floods are causing destruction and chaos in communities along the River Severn.
Helen Whately
Between now and 2027, £170 million will be invested in flood and erosion risk management in the English Severn and Wye region. Willing to meet my hon. Friend to discuss further.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is it not interesting that my right hon. Friend highlights the recent increase in exports to the European Union, in stark contrast to the doom and gloom that we heard from our opponents, who are saying that there will be a catastrophe and collapse in trade? Will she focus on the countries in central and eastern Europe and the Three Seas initiative—some of the fastest-growing countries on our continent—and build strong bilateral trade agreements with countries such as Poland and others?
Context
The MP highlights the recent increase in UK exports to EU and suggests focusing on central and eastern Europe for future opportunities.
Penny Mordaunt
I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the opportunities that exist there. Clearly, we had good news recently on exports, but we also had fantastic news about inward investment and he is right to be optimistic. I think that our businesses are going to thrive in this new environment.
Session: Trade with the EU
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Will the Government ensure that we are doing everything possible to assist our Polish allies against this egregious conduct by the Belarus authorities?
Context
Lukashenko is using refugees as a weapon in hybrid warfare against Poland at the Polish-Belarusian border.
Vicky Ford
The UK is standing side by side with Poland, a NATO ally. A small team of UK armed forces have been deployed for engineering support upon agreement with Poland. The UK also led a G7 statement condemning Belarus's orchestration of irregular migration.
Session: Belarus
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What diplomatic steps is the Government taking to address the recent situation at the Polish-Belarusian border?
Context
The recent conflict on the Polish-Belarusian border has raised concerns about human rights and security in the region.
Vicky Ford
The Foreign Secretary will be discussing Belarus with NATO partners today. The UK is deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Belarus and has imposed over 100 sanctions designations. The Prime Minister emphasised our commitment to Poland's security when he met the Polish Prime Minister last Friday.
Session: Belarus
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Please will the Minister do everything possible to ensure that the money for the Future Fit programme is finally released and construction can start?
Context
The Minister has heard from the Member for Ludlow how essential it is that £320 million be released for the Future Fit programme.
Edward Argar (Minister for Patient Safety)
We now have the outline business case from the trust, and we are reviewing it at pace to ensure that we can deliver the investment in both Shropshire's hospitals. We recognise the importance of this project for the constituents of my hon. Friend and colleagues.
Session: Topical Questions
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We are working hard in Shropshire on a £500 million investment in modernising A&E services in our local hospital. There is a funding shortage; I have written to the Chancellor on the issue and would be very grateful for a response. There is nothing more important than modernising A&E services for the safety of our patients and constituents.
Context
Concerns over a funding shortage for modernising A&E services in Shropshire.
Steve Barclay
I know that that is a very important constituency issue, and my hon. Friend has championed it frequently. He will know that, through the long-term plan, there is a £33.9 billion uplift in core funding, in addition to the other funding through covid and other measures announced by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor. I am very happy to discuss the matter with my hon. Friend; he is right to focus on it.
Session: Topical Questions
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What action is the UK taking to increase our export footprint in future growth areas such as renewable energy, particularly in countries such as Mongolia?
Context
The question follows from the previous answer. The questioner seeks specific actions for increasing UK exports to Mongolia.
Graham Stuart
Running a mining export campaign for Mongolia, supporting UK-based investors and supply chain, engaging with Mongolian Government on solar and waste energy projects and infrastructure including hydropower. The Department also supports small-scale and medium enterprises in north Wales to ensure the objectives align closely.
Session: High Growth Global Markets
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I, too, would like to join the Chairman of the Select Committee in wishing the Attorney General the very best for the birth of her child and maternity leave afterwards. At a time when we are hearing about more disturbing cases of fraud, not just against private citizens but against the state and the public purse, will the Attorney General continue to give us information through the House of Commons Library, publicising the success stories of the CPS in following, tackling and prosecuting those fraudsters?
Context
The MP wishes the Attorney General well and asks for continued updates on the CPS's success in prosecuting fraud.
Suella Braverman
The serious fraud division has brought three high-value investment scammers to justice. These include Joseph Lewis, who ran a £20 million Ponzi scheme and was sentenced to five years and four months' imprisonment, and Freddy David, an authorised financial consultant who operated a parallel Ponzi fraud which resulted in a loss of £10.4 million to his victims.
Session: Crown Prosecution Service Fraud Cases
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What recent assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the Crown Prosecution Service in tackling fraud cases?
Context
The MP is concerned about the effectiveness of the CPS in addressing fraud cases.
Suella Braverman
The CPS continues to work with the police and other investigators to prosecute criminal cases involving fraud. In 2019-20, the CPS prosecuted more than 10,000 defendants where fraud and forgery were the principal offence. It also has a dedicated specialist fraud division.
Session: Crown Prosecution Service Fraud Cases
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that, by providing funding to support families with children of all ages, including pre-school children, the covid winter grant scheme will give local authorities the flexibility they need to ensure that no child goes hungry this winter?
Context
The MP acknowledges the support provided by the covid winter grant scheme but raises concerns about ensuring that it reaches all children, including those under school age.
Therese Coffey
I completely agree with my hon. Friend. The terms of the condition of the grants to councils were clear that they needed to reach out to support children of all ages who are disadvantaged. Councils have the ties and the knowledge that make them well placed to identify that. I commend Shropshire County Council, which has received £850,000 over the scheme, for drawing on this information to target its support to help children of all ages, including pre-schoolers and care leavers who are exactly the groups that I hoped would also benefit from the support.
Session: Vulnerable People Essential Costs
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What steps her Department is taking to support vulnerable people with essential costs in winter 2020-21. I am concerned about the rising costs for those on low incomes during this challenging period, particularly regarding access to food and utility services.
Context
The question arises from the need to assist disadvantaged individuals during the winter of 2020-21. The MP is concerned about essential costs such as food and utilities.
Therese Coffey
The £170 million covid winter grant scheme is supporting disadvantaged people through the challenging winter months to the end of March with food and utilities. The first wave of funding was given to councils in November. The next tranche of payments is due next month and support for Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales is already included in the pre-agreed Barnett funding. I have been pleased to see councils go beyond just issuing food vouchers. For example, in Telford and the Wrekin, where a large number of pupils had reportedly been going to school without a warm coat, some of the funding will help ensure that these disadvantaged children are warmly dressed for the cold winter months.
Session: Vulnerable People Essential Costs
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Increasing the number of women in the workforce is key to economic growth. What support is DFID giving to women entrepreneurs?
Context
The MP is asking about support given to women entrepreneurs by the Department for International Development.
Alok Sharma
The UK is committed to increasing women's role in trade, recognising the importance of trade as a lever for equality. We recently announced an extension to the Commonwealth SheTrades programme which provides training and mentoring to female entrepreneurs and connects them to international markets and investment opportunities.
Session: Bilateral Trade Developing Countries
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Recognition of Western Sahara as Moroccan
08 May 2024
Responding: David Rutley
Main Concerns
["The UK is behind other allies in recognising the sovereignty of Western Sahara as part of Morocco. Mr Kawczynski highlighted that Morocco is a reliable strategic partner and progressive society, protecting religious minorities and supporting women's rights and democracy. He cited Morocco's efforts to stem illegal migration into Europe and its role in countering Iranian influence in north Africa."]
Specific Asks
['Mr Kawczynski urged the Government to recognise Western Sahara as Moroccan, or risk jeopardising relations with Morocco and north African stability.']
UK-Mongolian Relations
12 July 2023
Responding: Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Main Concerns
["Daniel Kawczynski is concerned about the geopolitical significance of Mongolia, highlighting its importance as a beacon of democracy in the region surrounded by oppressive regimes like Russia and China. He mentioned the country's economic potential, particularly in mining and critical minerals, but noted that only 7% of the territory has been explored. He also expressed worries about Chinese exploitation of Mongolian resources and pollution issues in Ulaanbaatar."]
Specific Asks
['Kawczynski asks the Minister to support British efforts in Mongolia by facilitating technology transfer for copper refining, encouraging UK Export Finance to provide soft credit loans, and promoting infrastructure projects such as a ring road around Ulaanbaatar. He also suggests the need for a state visit from the Prime Minister or President of Mongolia.']
British Indian Ocean Territory: Sovereignty — [Judith Cummins in the Chair]
07 December 2022
Responding: Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Main Concerns
["The Member is concerned about the British Government's negotiations with Mauritius over the sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), which includes Diego Garcia. He mentions that the Foreign Office's handling of similar issues in the past led to conflicts, such as the Falklands War. The Member expresses worry that consulting the Chagossian people was not prioritised before entering into negotiations with Mauritius. He raises concerns about the potential for China and other countries to gain control over BIOT islands through leases or purchases from Mauritius."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the Government to commit to a referendum of the Chagossians before any negotiation over sovereignty is concluded, arguing that this would ensure legitimacy in the process. He requests an explanation for why negotiations are proceeding without consulting the Chagossian people.']
Chinese Influence in Mauritius And Chagos Islands
07 December 2022
Responding: Robbie Moore
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the Chinese extending their influence in Mauritius through the belt and road policy. Mauritius has received over $1 billion in investment from China, making it susceptible to leasing outer islands to China if given control of them. There is a risk that allowing this could jeopardize the viability and sustainability of UK and American bases on Diego Garcia due to proximity to Chinese installations.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the government to consult indigenous people living in Britain, Mauritius, the Maldives, and the Seychelles before making any decisions about the Chagos islands. Self-determination should be granted to the Chagossians rather than being determined by the Mauritian Government or UK.']
Ukrainian NATO Membership
08 December 2021
Responding: Amanda Milling
Main Concerns
["The speaker is concerned about the violation of Ukrainian security, especially due to Russian aggression in Crimea and the build-up of troops near Ukraine's borders. He mentions the death of a Syrian child on the Poland-Belarus border and the exploitation of refugees by Lukashenko under Putin's influence. The Nord Stream 2 pipeline is also highlighted as a threat to central and eastern European security, along with cyber-attacks and assassinations in Britain. Concerns over ethnic cleansing in Crimea and restrictions on vessel access through the Kerch strait are raised."]
Specific Asks
["The speaker requests that the Minister assess the status of Ukraine's MAP application process since the Bucharest summit declaration of 2008 and provide details on British efforts to support this. He also asks about restrictions on vessels accessing the Sea of Azov."]
Shrewsbury Town Centre Redevelopment
09 November 2021
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the lack of levelling-up fund investment in Shropshire compared to inner-city conurbations such as Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, and others. The council's attempt to secure £20 million for town centre redevelopment was unsuccessful, despite owning three major shopping centres in prime real estate. The value of these sites has decreased due to changing high street circumstances and online retail growth, raising concerns among the local electorate."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to arrange a meeting between Peter Freeman at Homes England and Shropshire Council officials to discuss redevelopment opportunities. I also request that the Minister seriously consider our bid for £20 million in levelling-up fund support to regenerate the town centre, which would boost economic prosperity and address funding shortages.']
AUKUS: Impact on Anglo-Chinese Relations
20 October 2021
Responding: Amanda Milling
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member is concerned about the increasing threat posed by China, particularly in its territorial disputes and aggressive actions in the South China Sea, which involve militarizing islands claimed by other nations. He also cited concerns over human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong's democratic movement suppression as evidence of China's growing assertiveness. The MP highlighted the economic dependency on China and advocated for a recalibration of trade policies to reduce this dependence."]
Specific Asks
["The hon. Member asked the government to consider establishing additional naval bases in the Indo-Pacific region akin to its base in Bahrain, stressing the need for Britain's military presence there to maintain peace and stability. He also requested that negotiations for joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) be prioritized to diversify trade partners away from China."]
Not specified in this excerpt - New Clause 12
19 March 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The lead MP proposes New Clause 12 to require an impact assessment of the effects on UK performers' rights. The amendment aims to ensure that the bill considers and protects the interests of performer...
Flooding: River Severn Catchment Area
13 December 2023
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
Flooding is the single biggest barrier to economic development in Daniel Kawczynski's constituency of Shrewsbury. He cited instances where properties flood annually, causing significant damage and emo...
Immigration and Asylum Bill - Clause dealing with Rwanda
12 December 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government are implementing measures to reduce illegal immigration, noting that small boat arrivals across the Channel have decreased by a third while they increased in other European regions such...
Illegal Migration
05 June 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
11 May 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Rail Services
11 May 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill - Amendment 133, page 40, line 7
27 March 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Cash proposed an amendment to limit the means through which a removal notice may be challenged to suspensive claims and appeals as permitted by or by virtue of this Act. He emphasised that under h...
Levelling Up Rural Britain
09 November 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Tributes to Her Late Majesty the Queen
10 September 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Migration and Economic Development Partnership with Rwanda
15 June 2022
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
10
PMQs Asked
41
Ministerial Questions Asked
33
House of Commons Debates Involved
7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
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
+173% above average
This MP:
10
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+206% above average
This MP:
41
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+178% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+579% above average
This MP:
33
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 (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
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 Daniel Kawczynski's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.