Daniel Zeichner
MP for Cambridge
Lab
7 May 2015 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Last week, the Government launched a consultation on establishing a growth development corporation for Cambridge. In the meantime, Peter Freeman, the chairman of the Cambridge Growth Company, is on the record as saying that Cambridge should aim to be the most liveable city in Europe. Given that this will be good for growth, not just for Cambridge but for the region and the wider economy, will the Prime Minister set out what more the Government can do to help us?
Context
A consultation was launched to establish a growth corporation in Cambridge. The chairman aims for Cambridge to be the most liveable city in Europe.
Keir Starmer
My hon. Friend's constituency is already home to brilliant research, innovation and economic growth, and through a Greater Cambridge development corporation we will put in place the powers and resources to unlock its full potential.
Assessment
No specific additional support was detailed.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Cambridge is one of the most intensive science and innovation clusters in the world, and that success is based on openness to talent. At the moment, in many American universities there are many well-qualified people pondering their futures. That presents a fantastic opportunity, but it is a global competition. What are our Government doing to make the destination of choice for those people the United Kingdom?
Context
The United Kingdom is home to a significant science and innovation cluster. The country faces global competition for attracting well-qualified individuals, particularly from American universities.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
My hon. Friend’s constituency is just one example of why the United Kingdom is a world leader in educating and attracting the brightest minds. Our immigration White Paper includes changes to make sure that more of the world’s best graduates and entrepreneurs start their careers and businesses here. We are also boosting our research and development sector with more than £86 billion, to ensure that we continue to attract the best and the brightest.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
In earlier exchanges, we did not hear much of a defence from the Prime Minister of his predecessor. Could he tell the House what he considers to be her greatest achievement?
Context
In earlier exchanges, the current Prime Minister did not defend his predecessor.
Rishi Sunak
While the Labour party was busy trying to take us back into the EU and reverse the referendum result, my predecessor was signing trade deals around the world that have seen Brexit Britain overtake the Netherlands, France and Japan to become the fourth largest exporter in the world.
Assessment
Did not address achievements; focused on defending stance against rejoining EU
Focus On Trade Deals
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
A few weeks ago, the world cringed at the Prime Minister's fawning welcome for Elon Musk. This week, advertisers are fleeing Musk's platform after his latest vile outburst. What exactly did the Prime Minister think he might learn from an unelected, super-rich individual who had taken over a once successful organisation and plunged it into a death spiral?
Context
The questioner criticises the Prime Minister's welcome for Elon Musk, noting that advertisers are now fleeing Musk's platform after his latest outburst.
Rishi Sunak
It is striking that the hon. Member for Cambridge—of all places!—does not understand the importance of technology sectors and companies to the growth of our economy. It illustrates everything that is wrong with Labour's approach to our economy. What the rest of the world saw was the UK playing a lead in defining the regulations and approach to a technology that will transform how we live.
Assessment
Did not directly answer what PM expected to gain from meeting Elon Musk, instead criticized Labour's economic stance
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Over recess, I was invited to visit one of the major supermarkets in my constituency to discuss food waste. What struck me most was the experience of shop workers on the frontline. They told me that they expect to suffer a violent assault every single day that they go to work. Although more maths might always be helpful, what is this out-of-touch Prime Minister doing to make sure that people can be safe in their workplace?
Context
Supermarket workers expect to suffer a violent assault every day at work. The Prime Minister is being asked about measures in place to ensure workplace safety.
Rishi Sunak
Everyone deserves to be safe in their workplace, which is why we are making sure that, through our sentencing Act, we have appropriate sentencing in place and, more generally, that we have police officers and community support officers across the country to help combat crime.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The Government's flagship green homes grant scheme collapsed in a £1.5 billion shambles at the end of last year, with just 81 vouchers issued in Cambridge and just 85 issued in the Prime Minister's constituency. With energy bills about to go through the roof, what is it about this Government that makes them so peculiarly unable to run a basic loft-lagging scheme?
Context
The Government's flagship green homes grant scheme has collapsed, with very few vouchers issued.
Boris Johnson
We are supporting measures to retrofit homes up and down the country to improve insulation. We are also supporting people with the costs of their fuel, and we will continue to do that through the warm homes discount, the winter fuel allowance and all the other payments we make.
Assessment
The collapse of the green homes grant scheme was not directly addressed; instead general support for insulation was stated.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I welcome the Government's plans to deepen devolution, but can the Minister reassure me that they will mean no alteration to the commitment to a Cambridge development corporation?
Context
The Government plans to deepen devolution and establish a centrally led urban development corporation for Greater Cambridge.
Matthew Pennycook
The Government remain fully committed to delivering nationally significant growth in Greater Cambridge. As my hon. Friend is well aware, we have established a centrally led urban development corporation to take it forward in partnership with local leaders.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-07
View All Questions -->
Given the opportunities for agrivoltaics on reservoirs to tackle evaporation and in fields to mitigate stress faced by livestock and crops, is it time to use this innovative approach more extensively?
Context
The MP praised the government's commitment to renewable energy but raised concerns about the current weather conditions in the east of England and suggested that agrivoltaic systems could provide shade, reduce water evaporation from reservoirs, and help livestock.
Michael Shanks
The hon. Friend is absolutely right, and we are in favour of innovation wherever we can deploy solar. We want to explore opportunities for solar on reservoirs and support the University of Lancaster's work to develop models for agrivoltaic technologies. Planning policy supports the integration of farming with solar generation.
Session: Agrivoltaics 2026-07-07
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has been made of the potential contribution of agrivoltaics to clean energy generation in England?
Context
The MP inquired about the assessment made on the potential benefits of agrivoltaic technology for generating clean energy in England.
Michael Shanks
The Government closely follow developments in the agrivoltaics sector and support innovative technologies, for instance through initiatives funded by UK Research and Innovation. In the solar road map that we have published, the Government and industry have committed themselves to exploring future research and demonstration opportunities for agrivoltaic systems.
Session: Agrivoltaics 2026-07-07
View All Questions -->
Many new houses will be built in Cambridge over the coming years. What steps is the Minister taking to ensure these developments include vital cultural components?
Context
New homes are being built, but there's a need to build communities with a strong cultural component. The city already has a significant cultural offer.
Ian Murray
Building homes involves not just economic drivers but also cultural and heritage communities. Cambridgeshire has seen many infrastructure projects, and Arts Council England's national portfolio programme supports local organisations like New International Encounter and Oblique Arts through the £1.5 billion Arts Everywhere fund.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I am grateful for your work on this issue and pleased with the recent announcement of a consultation on the development corporation. What further steps can we expect in the coming months?
Context
Following the initial question, Daniel Zeichner seeks further details on specific steps expected to be taken along the Oxford-Cambridge corridor.
Matthew Pennycook
Following the consultation on a Greater Cambridge urban development corporation, which ends on 1 April, we will publish the summary responses and a formal response setting out the Government's next steps. As ever, I strive to ensure that hon. Members from Cambridgeshire are fully informed about government thinking.
Session: Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment have you made with Cabinet colleagues on the adequacy of progress in delivering the Oxford-Cambridge growth corridor?
Context
The Oxford-Cambridge growth corridor has been a focus for economic development. Daniel Zeichner is concerned about the progress of this initiative.
Matthew Pennycook
In the 13 months since we announced plans to supercharge growth in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, significant progress has been made, including through updated proposals on East West Rail, the establishment of an Oxford growth commission and tangible steps towards realising the full potential of Greater Cambridge.
Session: Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor
View All Questions -->
What is the Minister's thinking on creating strategic food reserves in light of recent reports that other European countries are exploring this approach?
Context
Previous Government advice recommended households stockpile three days' worth of non-perishable food and water. European countries are reportedly considering strategic food reserves.
Dan Jarvis (Minister of State, Cabinet Office)
The Government's Prepare website includes a suggested list of supplies to improve household resilience, including non-perishable food. The Minister is interested in messaging from partners in Europe on this subject and committed to ensuring that the whole of society, especially the most vulnerable, are best prepared for crises.
Session: Emergency Preparedness
View All Questions -->
Cambridge University Press & Assessment has long experience of conducting in-country English tests, but it is concerned that the Home Office is moving too quickly to a new digital system whereby applicants do not have to attend in person. It fears that the scope for impersonation remains too high. Will the Minister review this change?
Context
Concerns raised about the speed and integrity of a new digital system for English language tests.
Mike Tapp
The Home Office English language testing procurement has formally launched. Given that there is a live process, I will not comment on that specifically. However, I can assure my hon. Friend that the delivery model must meet appropriate integrity requirements.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What assessment he has made with Cabinet colleagues of the effectiveness of cross-Government working on food security? The UK food system has shown remarkable resistance and flexibility in recent years, but industry experts warn about new climatic risks and global instability. Can my right hon. Friend say more about measures to assess our readiness for these challenges?
Context
The UK food system faces new challenges from climatic risk and global instability, according to seasoned industry voices. These challenges are cross-Government in nature.
Dan Jarvis (Minister of State, Cabinet Office)
My hon. Friend speaks with great authority on these matters. The Cabinet Office is strongly supportive of the work that DEFRA is undertaking on food security, including mapping critical food supply chain assets to provide a greater understanding of potential vulnerabilities. We have also published the first ever chronic risks analysis to support decision making on longer-term cross-cutting and interconnected risks, such as climate and geopolitical change.
Session: Food Security
View All Questions -->
Would the Minister arrange for me to meet UK Research and Innovation and the appropriate people to resolve this long-running issue of balancing research funding between post-doctorates and PhD students?
Context
The Business and Trade Committee visited the Cavendish laboratory in Cambridge, where the key issue was balancing research funding between post-doctorates and PhD students.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Liz Kendall)
Absolutely, I will arrange for my hon. Friend to meet the relevant Minister and UK Research and Innovation to ensure we get this right, as it is crucial to backing our world-leading researchers and turning research into innovation and future growth.
Session: Universities Research and Development
View All Questions -->
What structures are in place to ensure proper dialogue between Departments for East West Rail? The Minister's colleagues have set up a group that looks at creating more homes which could lead to more transport issues.
Context
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities established the Cambridge delivery group to create 150,000 additional homes. This will bring transport challenges due to increased housing.
Huw Merriman
The East West Rail growth board, led by the Treasury, will ensure a joined-up approach. It is essential that we look at this project as an economic opportunity for the region. There is an impact where there is housing, but without workforce, Cambridge cannot compete globally.
Session: East West Rail
View All Questions -->
What are the Government doing to support farmers? The NFU survey shows that 65% of farmers face declining profits. Why do farmers fare worse under the Conservatives?
Context
A survey by the National Farmers Union revealed that a staggering 65% of farmers are facing declining profits or business survival issues.
Steve Barclay
The hon. Gentleman seems to have written that question before listening, but let me give him one example: The most successful scheme DFRA has ever run is the current sustainable farming incentive scheme, with over 20,000 applications—more than any other scheme DFRA has run.
Session: Farmers
View All Questions -->
Cambridge has a long-established and flourishing local music scene but, as elsewhere, times are hard. The Music Venue Trust recently reported that, nationally, there have been 67 emergency cases for its experts so far in 2024. With soaring maintenance and operating costs, and with inflation meaning that the grassroots music sector is operating on a profit margin of just 0.2%, does the Minister accept that this is unsustainable for any business?
Context
The MP highlights the difficulties faced by local music venues in Cambridge due to increased costs and low profit margins.
Julia Lopez
It has been a particularly difficult period for a number of music venues. Obviously, we went through the pandemic and then an energy crisis, and we tried to support venues through those difficult times. We are now working very closely with the Music Venue Trust, which has access to Arts Council funding that is helping it to buy the freehold of some music venues. We also have a grassroots music fund that is helping with some of the issues that the hon. Gentleman cites, and I am sure it would be happy to look into the particularly treasured venues in his constituency.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Farmers have concerns about upfront payments required under the sustainable farming incentive programme. A specific case involves a farmer who installed a stone track but faced payment delays from DEFRA. He had to repay money he previously paid out and is considering removing the track. Will the Secretary of State help with this issue?
Context
Farmers face logistical issues in the sustainable farming incentive programme, with delays and financial impacts due to payment timing.
Steve Barclay
I am happy to look at any individual case raised by the hon. Lady. I agree that payment processes need improvement, and we are working with the Rural Payments Agency to build a more trusting relationship to expedite payments.
Session: Support for Farmers
View All Questions -->
I wonder whether my hon. Friend might be able to help my constituent Ella Wakley, who is disabled and travels to her college on the bus, but her blue badge does not allow free transport for her and her assistant until 9.30 am, which is a little late for the start of the school day.
Context
A constituent named Ella Wakley faces difficulty due to her blue badge not allowing free transport until after the school day starts, affecting both her and her assistant.
David Johnston
I do not know the specifics of the case that my hon. Friend raises, but if she writes to me, I will happily look at it.
Session: SEND Support
View All Questions -->
I visit schools in my constituency virtually every week, and I see more and more of them struggling financially and with staff for SEND pupils. Too many staff members are having to go out and fetch children to bring them to school in the mornings, and needing to have social workers based in their schools. This is not about individual schools; it is a systemic problem. What are the Government doing about it?
Context
The MP highlights the increasing financial strain on schools due to an increase in SEND pupils, noting issues with staffing and support services. He points out that this is a systemic problem requiring attention.
David Johnston
In Cambridgeshire, there has been a 27% increase in funding per head for special educational needs since 2021-22 and a special free school is in the pipeline, along with two local authority special competition free schools. Cambridgeshire is also part of our safety valve programme, which helps authorities to run a sustainable special educational needs system.
Session: SEND Support
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister tell the House whether the deals secured so far have improved or degraded our environment? What lessons have been learned for negotiating future deals?
Context
The MP is questioning whether existing trade agreements have improved or degraded environmental standards and what lessons can be learned for future negotiations.
Greg Hands
The hon. Gentleman raises an interesting point. Many of the agreements have actually, for the first time, included environmental provisions. If I recall correctly, he did not like the Australia trade deal, but it is the first time Australia has committed in a trade agreement to the Paris agreement and so on. When it comes to the impact of our trading policy over the last 14 years, he will also find, for example, that 86% of UK imports of palm oil—a key interest for environmentalists—are certified as sustainable, up from 16% in 2010. Again, we are seeing real results of UK trade policy moving in a much more environmentally friendly direction.
Session: Trade Agreements Environmental Protections
View All Questions -->
What steps she is taking to ensure future trade agreements include environmental protections?
Context
The MP is concerned about ensuring that future trade deals include environmental safeguards.
Greg Hands
The Government are committed to pursuing environmental provisions in our trade agreements and to using our multilateral trade policy, diplomatic efforts and trade promotion activity, all of which support our green objectives.
Session: Trade Agreements Environmental Protections
View All Questions -->
The Minister talked earlier about protecting our borders. I am sure he will know that Dover Port Health Authority has seized worrying amounts of contaminated meat over the last few months, but in just the last few days, we have learned that the Government are withdrawing the funds that make it possible for the authority to do that. Why are the Government ignoring the advice of experienced public health officials?
Context
The Dover Port Health Authority is seizing contaminated meat, but the Government are withdrawing funds that enable this authority to do its job effectively.
Steven Baker
There is absolutely no question of ignoring the advice of experts. Indeed, only yesterday I had relevant meetings to discuss adjacent matters. As I said in an earlier answer, meat is circulating—particularly pork and chicken—that is not fit under either EU or UK rules, and we will continue to take steps to ensure that our borders are protected.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I challenge him: is he really saying there will be no extra costs for our hard-pressed constituents as a result of all this extra bureaucracy?
Context
Businesses are concerned about potential delays and additional costs due to new import controls. The Food and Drink Federation estimates an extra £250 million a year in costs.
Steven Baker
We are not saying that, but I would say to the hon. Member that appropriate import controls are fundamental to ensure that we can protect the UK's food supply chain from biosecurity risks. Inflationary impacts on food for consumers will be at most less than 0.2 percentage points over a three-year period.
Session: Border Target Operating Model
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister say more about enforcement and the resources that are needed for councils to enforce against antisocial behaviour caused by short-term lets?
Context
Cambridge has long suffered from antisocial behaviour associated with short-term lets.
Julia Lopez
I thank the hon. Member for raising the issues in Cambridge city, and I appreciate that in a city such as that there will have been significant problems in this area. He may be aware that this was a joint announcement with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. We are there to put the mandatory register together, which gives us the data that local authorities can use, but it will be for DLUHC to look at some of the powers that can be implemented to deal with the antisocial behaviour problems that the hon. Gentleman cites.
Session: Short-term Lets National Registration
View All Questions -->
As colleagues have mentioned, cross-border issues remain a problem. Additionally, there are concerns about changes in operator-driver relationships due to potential VAT imposition on private hire journeys. Does this not highlight that modernisation was needed long ago?
Context
The current regulatory framework is seen as outdated, particularly in light of the growing influence of ride-hailing companies like Uber.
Guy Opperman
I would not refer to regulations written in 2020 and updated in 2023 as outdated. The Government must address the Uber case identified, which is a court matter that will be consulted on after.
Session: Taxi Licensing
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to ensure consistent standards of taxi licensing across local authorities. The Department for Transport issues guidance but enforcement varies widely, leading to disparities between local authority regulations.
Context
The question stems from concerns about inconsistent taxi licensing practices across local authorities in England.
Guy Opperman
The Department for Transport issues guidance to licensing authorities in England to help them regulate the sector, including the statutory taxi and private hire vehicle standards and best practice guidance updated in November 2023. The Government enacted legislation last year requiring licensing authorities in England to use a national database to share information.
Session: Taxi Licensing
View All Questions -->
By their own measures, the Government are failing on almost half of their levelling-up missions in the east of England. Meanwhile, the Cambridge sub-region has vital transport projects on hold or awaiting finance. When will the Treasury stop stalling growth and give power back to the regions, which know best what needs to be done in their area?
Context
The MP is concerned about transport projects in the Cambridge sub-region, a net contributor to the Exchequer, facing delays and needing finance.
Gareth Davies
This Government are committed to levelling up by boosting growth, raising living standards and spreading opportunity throughout the country in several different ways. The hon. Gentleman talks about giving more power to local areas, and he will know that the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority is getting a £97 million devolution deal. He will also know that Cambridge received some £14 million as part of the shared prosperity fund to spend on local projects.
Session: Regional Economic Inequalities Fiscal Steps
View All Questions -->
What recent fiscal steps have been taken to help tackle regional economic inequalities? I am concerned that by their own measures, the Government are failing on almost half of their levelling-up missions in the east of England. The Cambridge sub-region, a net contributor to the Exchequer, has vital transport projects on hold or awaiting finance.
Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of fiscal measures addressing regional disparities, particularly in Cambridge.
Gareth Davies
This Government are committed to levelling up by boosting growth, raising living standards and spreading opportunity throughout the country in several different ways. The hon. Gentleman talks about giving more power to local areas, and he will know that the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority is getting a £97 million devolution deal. He will also know that Cambridge received some £14 million as part of the shared prosperity fund to spend on local projects.
Session: Regional Economic Inequalities Fiscal Steps
View All Questions -->
With large amounts of public money being spent, can the Minister tell us what we are getting for that money in terms of environmental improvement or degradation?
Context
The MP questions the effectiveness of public spending on environmental land management schemes and requests a clear assessment of their impact.
Mark Spencer
We see thousands of kilometres of hedgerow planted, areas dedicated to biodiversity, and food creation for wild bird populations. The SFI is delivering these improvements.
Session: Environmental Land Management Schemes
View All Questions -->
With just four out of forty targets being achieved, can the Minister tell us how much environmental improvement farmers have delivered through ELMs so far?
Context
The Office for Environmental Protection reported the Government was largely off track with only four of 40 targets met. The MP wants to know how much environmental improvement has been achieved so far.
Mark Spencer
Two months into a 25-year plan is too soon to judge. We are making huge strides with stakeholders and farmers, who have created an environment over generations. The sustainable farming incentive (SFI) is designed to encourage more environmental improvement.
Session: Environmental Land Management Schemes
View All Questions -->
The five-times-delayed border checks will come into effect very soon, but those dealing with plant and animal health products are seriously worried about potential delays. Indeed, the chair of the Horticultural Trades Association has pointed out that the process of importing a petunia from the Netherlands has already increased from 19 to 59 steps, and he warns that the 'new border is a disaster waiting to happen'. What is the Minister doing to ensure that we will have a plentiful supply of imported red roses for Valentine's day?
Context
Concerns have been raised about upcoming border checks affecting the importation of goods, specifically mentioning delays in importing plant and animal products. There is particular worry over potential issues impacting Valentine's Day supplies.
Greg Hands
We have consulted very widely on the border target operating model. We have put in a lot of time and effort, we have done a lot of consultation, we have been running webinars and putting out leaflets to make sure that businesses are aware, and the introduction of the model will of course be staged.
Session: Trade Barriers
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has been made of the principal barriers to trade for importers?
Context
The question stems from concerns about the effectiveness and implementation of recent government initiatives aimed at easing trade barriers, particularly focusing on border checks and processes.
Greg Hands
The Government are committed to breaking down barriers to trade through our ambitious programme of free trade agreements. In August last year, the Government announced the border target operating model, which will simplify border processes for both imports and exports. These changes, based on smarter use of data and technology, will put in place new security and biosecurity controls while ensuring they are as simple as possible for businesses to comply with.
Session: Trade Barriers
View All Questions -->
I echo the observations of my hon. Friend the Member for Reading East (Matt Rodda). I remember in 2008-09, long before I came into this place, working endlessly with Cambridge City Council and energy providers on encouraging people in the city to take up home insulation schemes. Since then, we have seen precisely nothing—nothing has been going on. Labour has a huge ambition for the future; what is the Government's ambition?
Context
There was a significant drop from 1.8 million insulation measures introduced into cavity walls and lofts in 2010 to only 80,000 in 2022.
Andrew Bowie
I know mathematics is not a strong point for the Labour party, but I will go over the figures again: 14% to 50% over the course of the last three Parliaments, delivered by the actions of this Conservative Government. We have a plan to continue to deliver for the least well-off in those homes that need more energy efficiency measures. As I just said to the hon. Member's colleague, we are allocating £20 billion to clean heat mechanisms over this and the next Parliament, and we are going to continue to deliver for the British people.
Session: Home Energy Efficiency Measures
View All Questions -->
How many homes had energy efficiency measures installed in (a) 2010 and (b) 2022?
Context
In 2010, the UK aimed to improve energy performance in homes. The question queries how many homes had energy efficiency measures installed.
Andrew Bowie
Because of our plan, half of homes now meet the Government's 2035 energy performance certificate band C goal, a significant jump from 14% in 2010. In 2010, low-cost measures were targeted, with 960,000 installations. In 2022, funding shifted to high-cost measures to benefit low-income households and less-efficient homes, resulting in approximately 200,000 installations last year.
Session: Home Energy Efficiency Measures
View All Questions -->
What are the Minister and his colleagues doing to mitigate the decline in research sector resources due to falling international student applications?
Context
The MP noted a significant drop in international student applications and asked about offsetting the loss of research resources.
Andrew Griffith
Shame that the hon. Member is so keen to talk down UK at every opportunity. This Government are mobilising more public funding for R&D than ever before and private investment on top, £2 for every £1 put in by government.
Session: Research and Development Private Investment
View All Questions -->
I thank the Minister for her answer. Back in September, I asked the then Minister about the impact of long waiting times for Access to Work assessments on the neurodiverse, and I would like to press further on the impact of long waits for assessments in the NHS. What analysis has been done, and does the Minister appreciate the cost to the economy of not making the right adjustments to unlock such unused potential?
Context
Previous discussions highlighted the negative impact on neurodiverse individuals and their potential economic contributions.
Mims Davies
I thank the hon. Member for his point. I, too, pressed the previous Minister on this matter, and I shall be pressing myself going forward. In fact, we met and fed in work involving Thriiver in my constituency, and we have been working with stakeholders, partners and employer organisations to make sure this link is joined up.
Session: Access to Work
View All Questions -->
What steps his Department is taking to reduce waiting times for Access to Work assessments. I thank the Minister for her answer. Back in September, I asked the then Minister about the impact of long waiting times for Access to Work assessments on the neurodiverse, and I would like to press further on the impact of long waits for assessments in the NHS. What analysis has been done, and does the Minister appreciate the cost to the economy of not making the right adjustments to unlock such unused potential?
Context
Long waiting times for Access to Work assessments have raised concerns about their impact on the neurodiverse community and the economy.
Mims Davies
Access to Work remains in high demand. We are increasing the number of staff processing Access to Work claims and prioritising renewal applications for those with a job start within four weeks. We are improving the service through increased digitisation to improve the time from application through to decision.
Session: Access to Work
View All Questions -->
I welcome my constituency neighbour, the hon. Member for South Cambridgeshire (Anthony Browne) to his place on the Front Bench. For the past two years, part of the guided busway in Cambridge has been closed due to a complex legal wrangle with the Health and Safety Executive. It has meant that buses are snarled up and motorists and bus users have had thousands and thousands of hours of wasted time. Will the Minister meet me to try to find a way to resolve this issue speedily and get Cambridge moving?
Context
A legal dispute has closed part of the guided busway in Cambridge.
Mark Harper
I am not familiar with the specific situation that the hon. Gentleman raises about a dispute with the Health and Safety Executive. I will of course make sure that the relevant Minister meets him to deal with this issue. I have to say that my previous experience of Cambridge City Council was that it was tending to implement policies such as its congestion charging scheme, which it has now had to drop because it was so unpopular. It was not focused on getting traffic moving, but being against the interests of road users. I am glad that he welcomes that change.
Session: Motor Traffic
View All Questions -->
Post-Brexit attempts to recruit domestic workers into agricultural jobs have not managed to fill existing vacancies, leaving firms unable to produce at pre-Brexit levels. New Government rules on migration now put the minimum income requirements for immigrant workers far higher than the level currently earned by an agricultural worker in the UK. In that context, what assessment is he and his Department making of the impact that his Government's draconian immigration policies will have on the security of domestic food production and on the cost and availability of food for consumers?
Context
Concerns about the impact of new immigration rules on agricultural production and food availability.
Steve Barclay
Of course we will work with colleagues in the fishing industry to discuss the impacts of the Home Office announcement. That is part of the discussions that we will have. It is worth reminding the House that, for farming, the seasonal agricultural workers scheme is separate and is not part of the announcement from Home Office colleagues this week.
Session: Food Security
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister say more about what the Government are doing to stem that tide of lawlessness, particularly for independent retailers who may not be part of the Pegasus Project? How much is being lost to theft?
Context
The MP highlights the impact of retail crime, including daily verbal and physical abuse towards staff and significant losses from theft. The issue is part of USDAW's Freedom from Fear campaign.
Nusrat Ghani
Project Pegasus is a public-private partnership that improves intelligence sharing. A new offence with longer sentences has been created for violent acts against workers, helping ensure more convictions and prison time for offenders involved in shop crime. The Government recognises the impact on shops, staff and customers.
Session: Retail Crime
View All Questions -->
What assessment she has made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of retail crime on high street businesses. I have heard about daily levels of verbal and physical abuse staff face, as well as huge losses from theft. Will the Minister say more about what the Government are doing to stem that tide of lawlessness, particularly for independent retailers who may not be part of the Pegasus Project? How much is being lost to theft?
Context
The MP notes that retail crime is affecting high street businesses, including daily verbal and physical abuse towards staff and significant losses from theft. The issue has been highlighted by the USDAW Freedom from Fear campaign.
Nusrat Ghani
The Government recognise the impact of violent behaviour towards shop staff and launched a retail crime action plan and Project Pegasus. Overall crime is down by 54% since 1990, but shoplifting is up. The action plan prioritises police attendance at incidents involving violence or detention by security, improving evidence collection. A new offence with longer sentences has been created for violent acts against workers.
Session: Retail Crime
View All Questions -->
It has been a very long wait to get border checks in place on the UK side. What evidence does the Minister have that EU businesses have the appropriate systems in place, including enough vets, to make them work smoothly? What estimate has he made of the impact on UK food security?
Context
Concerns have been raised about delays in implementing UK border checks and the readiness of EU businesses to comply with new regulations, potentially affecting food supply.
Alex Burghart
The whole purpose of the exercise is to ensure that we have UK food security. The border target operating model will implement its next three major milestones on 31 January 2024, 30 April 2024 and 31 October 2024, which means that the regime will be introduced by increments. This will be good for British food and good for British animals.
Session: Border Target Operating Model
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has been made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the border target operating model on cross-border flows of goods?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the potential disruptions to cross-border trade due to changes in border regulations.
Alex Burghart
The Government are delivering an ongoing programme of engagement with stakeholders across all sectors in all parts of the country and with key European Union trading partners to ensure goods continue to move across the border. We have not identified any specific risk to the cross-border flow of goods.
Session: Border Target Operating Model
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor
03 December 2025
Responding: Matthew Pennycook
Main Concerns
['The idea of recognising that the area between Cambridge and Oxford could become something special had lukewarm support initially. Over time, however, there has been a conversion to the position that this is an idea whose time has come. The last decade saw false starts and missed opportunities with projects such as a super-highway and rail link.']
Specific Asks
['I seek assurances from the Minister that the next decade will be very different from the last, and that we will actually make the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor happen.']
Sustainable Farming Incentive And Rural Economy Pressures
25 October 2022
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the pressures faced by food producers in Sussex and elsewhere due to high fuel costs, labour shortages, and the contraction of pig and poultry sectors. He mentions environmental land management schemes being phased out, with at least £1 billion taken out of the rural economy so far without clear replacement funding. The withdrawal of basic payments is also an issue, along with a lack of new entrants replacing those who have left agriculture. There are concerns about agricultural tenancies and the need for clarity on the Government's response to Baroness Rock's recommendations."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the Minister to provide details on applications for the sustainable farming incentive in England, particularly Sussex; assess the impact of reduced farm incomes on local economies; explain why the number of applicants for retirement and new entrant schemes is low; and give a timeline for implementing agricultural tenancy recommendations.']
Future of Small Cities Following Covid-19
26 April 2022
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
["Daniel Zeichner is concerned about the impact of the pandemic on small cities, particularly Cambridge. He highlights issues such as changing transport patterns, increased use of private vehicles over public transport, and altered demand for office space. He also mentions the importance of maintaining social interactions that foster innovation, such as 'bike-locking moments' in Cambridge."]
Specific Asks
['Zeichner asks the Government to work with cities like Cambridge to establish a multi-disciplinary test bed framework for implementing experiments and studies across various sectors, including health, education, climate, retail, transport, housing, business models, and office space evolution. He requests proactive selection of projects, data publication, and learning mechanisms.']
Emergency Authorisation And Pollinator Health
02 February 2022
Main Concerns
['Mr. Daniel Zeichner is concerned about the decision to make an emergency authorisation despite expert advice not being met, and highlights the importance of pollinator health for agriculture. He notes that farming and environmental concerns must be addressed together without compromising either side. The MP also mentions the potential economic impact on farmers due to a lack of tools necessary to manage pests effectively.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks why the Secretary of State has overridden expert advice and what steps will be taken to protect pollinator health while supporting agriculture economically.']
Research and Development Funding — [Peter Dowd in the Chair]
17 March 2021
Responding: Amanda Solloway
Main Concerns
["The debate focuses on the challenges to research and development funding in the UK post-Brexit. It highlights concerns over the UK's reduced influence in EU decision-making regarding Horizon Europe, potential cuts from the existing science budget, impacts of aid budget reductions on international collaborative projects, and issues with the new Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA). The MP also points out historical underinvestment in R&D compared to other developed countries. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong workforce in research institutions despite visa costs and pay freezes."]
Specific Asks
["The lead MP asks the government to ensure that funding for Horizon Europe is not diverted from existing science budgets, reverse cuts to official development assistance (ODA) research funding, and address issues with ARIA's implementation. He also urges the minister to tackle workforce challenges in R&D by improving conditions for international researchers and addressing diversity issues."]
Funding Cuts To Medical Research Charities
17 March 2021
Main Concerns
['I am particularly grateful to the right hon. Member for Tunbridge Wells (Greg Clark) for mentioning the medical research charities, which have been very hard hit and do vital work. I note that my hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham, Selly Oak (Steve McCabe) and others suggested that the golden triangle is in a privileged position; however, when talking about levelling up we should be aware of the danger of dragging down. We are world leaders in research, but this cannot be taken for granted.']
Specific Asks
['I had hoped to hear that the budget would be resolved in due course and the cuts managed to minimise impact. I hope that the Minister will fight our corner because this is so important for the future of Britain in the world.']
Local Government Reorganisation
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Farming Road Map and Profitability Review
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Debate on the Address
13 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
UK-EU Common Understanding Negotiations 2025-12-17
17 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government were elected with a manifesto commitment to reset relations with European partners; to fix the bad deal passed on by the previous government; and to support jobs here in the UK. A new s...
Ely Railway Upgrade 2025-12-03
03 December 2025
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
I draw Members' attention to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests as a district councillor for East Cambridgeshire. The outline business case for the Ely area capacity enhancement ...
Budget Resolutions 2025-11-26
26 November 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced a new tax raid of £26 billion, increasing borrowing in every year. Mrs Badenoch argues that this Budget increases benefits for families but hikes taxes on...
Asylum Policy 2025-11-17
17 November 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
BBC Leadership 2025-11-11
11 November 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Global Plastics Treaty 2025-07-17
17 July 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate discusses the upcoming UN global plastics treaty negotiations in Geneva, emphasising the importance of reducing plastic production, improving design for minimum environmental impact, provid...
Sustainable Farming Incentive 2025-03-12
12 March 2025
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Attendance
66.3%
65 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
26
26.5% of votes
No Votes
39
39.8% of votes
Abstentions
33
33.7% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
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
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
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
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
6
PMQs Asked
137
Ministerial Questions Asked
94
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
Westminster Hall Debates Led
13
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+922% above average
This MP:
137
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1834% above average
This MP:
94
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+37% above average
This MP:
13
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-4% below average
This MP:
66.3
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 Zeichner's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.