Dave Doogan
MP for Angus and Perthshire Glens
SNP
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
In the coming weeks, energy bills will rise again for households across the United Kingdom; within the last few days, five major mortgage lenders have pushed up mortgage prices for households across the United Kingdom; and within the last few hours, the cost of a barrel of oil has gone to over $100, pushing up prices at the pumps for motorists across the United Kingdom. Despite that, the Prime Minister still seems fairly well liked. I will let you into a wee secret, Mr Speaker: I quite like the new Prime Minister. But popularity will not pay the bills during this winter's looming cost of living emergency, so will the Prime Minister stand up now and tell people what he is going to do to help?
Context
Households across the UK face rising energy bills, mortgage prices, and oil prices, contributing to a looming cost of living emergency.
Andy Burnham
I will, Mr Speaker. I will remove VAT from electricity bills next month. It is not going to solve everything for people, but it will take a little bit of pressure off, and the hon. Gentleman should look out for further measures as we go through the year. I appreciate that it does not apply in Scotland, but we will impose a £2 cap on bus fares across England for the whole of 2027. We are doing this because this is a cost of living Government, and we want to give people hope that some help is coming. I thank the hon. Gentleman for his faint praise—it will get him everywhere.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs 2026-09-09
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I am gravely concerned that time after time this Prime Minister, in response to the abject and honest criticism of his defence investment plan, cites recent trends in defence spending, when he should be calibrating it against the chronic and very real threat the people on these islands face. In his limited time left in No. 10, will he get a grip of his paper-thin plan?
Context
The MP expressed concern about the Prime Minister's defence investment plan, citing recent trends in spending rather than addressing chronic threats.
Keir Starmer
That is from the party that thinks we should give up the nuclear deterrent, and the hon. Gentleman stands there to talk about defence. We need no more advice and sanctimonious nonsense from the SNP.
Assessment
Attacked the Scottish National Party instead of addressing concerns about the plan
Attacking Opponent
Session: PMQs 2026-07-01
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His Chancellor’s economic policies started off badly and have headed rapidly downhill from there, his Energy Secretary’s policies ensure that energy-rich Scotland lives under the highest domestic and commercial energy prices in the world, and his Foreign Secretary provides diplomatic cover for the atrocities committed in Gaza by the Israel Defence Forces. Does he understand why the people of Scotland are so dissatisfied with his latest iteration of dysfunctional British rule in Scotland?
Context
The Chancellor’s economic policies, Energy Secretary’s high energy prices for Scotland, and the Foreign Secretary’s diplomatic support for actions in Gaza have all contributed to dissatisfaction among Scottish constituents. The questioner references the independence movement gaining popularity.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
Does the hon. Gentleman understand that the electorate in Scotland answered that question in July of last year? I remember that there used to be quite a few SNP Members sitting on the Opposition Benches; now it is a distant cry from up on the Back Benches.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address the dissatisfaction and reasons for Scottish independence support directly.
Electorate Answered In July
Fewer Snp Members
Session: PMQs
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Before the election, this Prime Minister said he would lower energy bills by £300. Since he took office, they have gone up by £149. He said he would protect the winter fuel payment, but now he is in power he has stripped it off our pensioners. And he lined up for many photos with WASPI women, saying he would have their backs, and he has just betrayed them in the most scandalous way possible. This is now the defining characteristic of this one-trick phony Prime Minister who says one thing and does another. In Scotland, the SNP is 16 points ahead in the polls. Does he understand why the people of these islands, especially those of us in Scotland, treat him with such contempt?
Context
The MP criticized the Prime Minister for broken election promises.
Keir Starmer
Scottish National party Members used to ask those questions from an area that contained a great many MPs not so long ago, but all that changed in July. Now the hon. Gentleman is carping right up there at the back, and we can hardly hear him.
Session: PMQs
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The UK Government's fiscally illiterate electricity generator levy will choke off billions from future investments in the kind of renewable energy projects that my Angus constituency excels at delivering. This investment will find its way to more favourable jurisdictions, putting thousands of green jobs in Scotland and our energy transition at risk. Will the Prime Minister commit to scrapping this environmentally and economically damaging tax, or will he instead confirm that he and the latest Chancellor know the price of everything and the value of nothing?
Context
The question concerns the potential negative impacts of the electricity generator levy on renewable energy investments in Scotland.
Rishi Sunak
I do not think it is right that, when energy companies are making windfall profits because of a war, those profits should go untaxed. This is what our levy does: it is right that we recover energy companies' excess profits that result from the war and give the money back to the country in the form of support for energy bills. What is economically damaging for Scotland is the SNP's refusal to acknowledge the need for a transition to support the North sea oil and gas industry, which we are proud to do.
Assessment
Did not commit to scrapping the electricity generator levy
Shifts Focus To Snp'S Position On North Sea
Session: PMQs
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We learned today—unfortunately, from the media, rather than a Minister—that the Treasury has informed the Office for Veterans' Affairs that its budget is to be cut by 40%, from £5 million to £3 million. This cannot be right, as just yesterday Graeme Dey, the SNP Scottish Government's Veterans Minister, announced a further £1 million to support Scottish veterans alone. These disparate positions are irreconcilable. This is a tale of two Governments, so will the Prime Minister follow the SNP's lead and assure the House today that he will not allow this cut to UK funding for veterans?
Context
The Treasury has informed the Office for Veterans' Affairs that its budget is to be cut by 40%, from £5 million to £3 million. This contrasts with an announcement of additional support by the SNP.
Boris Johnson
Not only was this the first Government to create a Veterans Minister specifically with a charge of looking after veterans, and not only have we invested in them, but we have taken steps to protect our armed services veterans from vexatious litigation, pursued by lefty lawyers of a kind sitting not a million miles away from me today, who pursue them long after they have served Queen and country and when no new evidence has been provided. We tried to protect them, we have protected them and the Labour party voted against it.
Assessment
Did not commit to reversing funding cuts or following SNP lead
Attacking Opposition
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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What is the First Secretary's advice to my constituent in Arbroath, who after 44 years of working has been cut adrift by Treasury rules?
Context
Chancellor's financial package not addressing the needs of some constituents who cannot be furloughed.
The Prime Minister (Dominic Raab)
Does not support universal basic income as it would not target resources at those who need them most; financial and military support provided to Scotland.
Session: PMQs
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What message does she have for the 800,000 young Scots who could not vote in the 2014 referendum regarding her party's stance on their say in Scotland's constitutional future?
Context
The questioner notes that young people were unable to vote in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum and asks about future constitutional decisions involving them.
Kirsty McNeill
The people of Scotland were given a choice on our constitutional future, and we chose to remain part of a stronger United Kingdom.
Session: Young People 2026-07-15
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Is the Prime Minister-elect considered a good friend by the Secretary of State? Will it be awkward when another young Scot takes over as Secretary of State?
Context
The Secretary of State often mentions his friends, including the Prime Minister-elect. The questioner asks about the relationship and future leadership changes in Scotland.
Kirsty McNeill
It is no surprise that an SNP representative does not want to discuss their record on youth worklessness. Shamefully, youth unemployment in Scotland is higher than elsewhere in the UK due to lack of investment by the SNP.
Session: Young People 2026-07-15
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The Royal Navy fleet obviously sits alongside the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Will the Minister confirm that he is committed to the RFA and its fleet expansion?
Context
No information provided, but the question implies concerns about RFA funding or support.
Luke Pollard
My hon. Friend really is the Member of Parliament for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, as she is determined to champion it so frequently. She will have seen in the defence investment plan our commitment to the new generation of fleet solid support ships, and she will have seen the work that this Government have undertaken since 2024 to address concerns raised with us about the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
Session: Royal Navy Surface Fleet 2026-07-06
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The Secretary's first external meeting as Scotland Secretary was with Global Counsel without declaring it for over a year. The questioner seeks clarity on whether this was based on official advice or personal initiative.
Context
Questions the propriety of undeclared external meetings with Global Counsel, a lobbying fund associated with Peter Mandelson.
Douglas Alexander
The meeting was facilitated by officials. The Prime Minister has stated that appropriate action has been taken, and dismisses further questions as unwarranted criticism.
Session: Promoting Scottish Interests Abroad
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If you were a gardener with a Renault Trafic or a builder with a Ford Ranger in Scotland, you would be paying over £150 just to fill up at the pump. Why are we seeing intervention from Spain, Poland, Germany, France, Italy, Ireland and Australia but not here? We want to hear what the Chancellor will do about diesel specifically.
Context
Criticism of Chancellor's lack of action on fuel duty compared to other countries, focusing on the Scottish context.
Dan Tomlinson
The Scottish National party has had ample opportunity to invest in energy, infrastructure and changes needed for our economy. However, on fuel duty it is important that we stick to the current plan rather than returning to high borrowing and interest rates of the past.
Session: Fuel Costs Support for Motorists
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In two weeks, the Welsh people will vote for a government genuinely concerned about child poverty in Wales. In Scotland, the Scottish Government's child payment has helped protect 407,000 children from UK poverty. Does Plaid Cymru's similar plan represent an end to Labour's fag-end Administration and the beginning of Plaid Cymru's time?
Context
The people of Wales will elect a new government on May 7th, with Plaid Cymru promising to protect children from UK poverty through its child payment programme.
Jo Stevens
I do not think the hon. Gentleman can have been listening when I mentioned that Plaid has admitted it will cut the budget for child poverty. The Institute for Fiscal Studies has made clear that Plaid would need to make spending cuts or raise taxes to fund its manifesto pledges.
Session: Cost of Living
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There was a pork-barrel stench when the first defence growth deal was awarded to the Minister's constituency. Over six months later, he has finally got around to making an award to Scotland, but for Scotland, the £50 million has turned into £20 million—and he wants the Scottish Government to foot the bill. Can he be clear with the House today about why, while there are no strings attached to the £50 million for the Welsh defence growth deal, there are strings attached to the Scottish defence growth deal, and does he expect the Scottish Government to top up the £20 million that he has allocated, so that it becomes the £50 million that every other area has got?
Context
The question addresses a disparity between the original £50 million announced for Scotland's defence sector compared to what was actually allocated, raising concerns about fairness and additional funding requirements.
Luke Pollard
This is just the politics of grievance from the SNP. This Labour Government have allocated £50 million to support growth in Scotland, including £5 million for the Arrol Gibb campus in Rosyth and—[Interruption.]
Session: Defence Jobs Scotland
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Given that the energy market in Scotland operates with surplus generation and transmission, while England faces shortages leading to higher costs for Scottish consumers subsidizing English consumers, will the Minister recommit—just before the Scottish elections—to energy bills in Scotland being £300 lower in 2029 than in 2024?
Context
The question addresses the disparity between Scotland's surplus in energy generation and transmission compared to England's shortage, impacting overall costs.
Martin McCluskey
Bills are coming down, and yes, I will recommit to that. The number of people in fuel poverty in Scotland will reduce by 9% and the number in extreme fuel poverty will reduce by 12.5% this April due to our policies.
Session: Consumer Energy Prices Scotland
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What steps are being taken to help reduce consumer energy prices in Scotland? In light of the market surplus and predicted high costs, will the Minister recommit to Scottish energy bills being £300 lower in 2029 than in 2024?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the Scottish energy market operating with surplus generation and transmission, unlike England's shortage. Energy UK predicts no meaningful reduction in energy bills until the 2030s.
Martin McCluskey
Bills are coming down, and yes, I will recommit to that. The number of people in fuel poverty in Scotland will reduce by 9% and the number in extreme fuel poverty will reduce by 12.5% this April due to our policies.
Session: Consumer Energy Prices Scotland
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Constituents have restored the Alyth hotel which is now an outstanding dining and drinking venue as well as a hotel but they are smothered by compound burden of VAT rates, wage costs, duty increases, employer national insurance contributions, energy costs and squeeze on spending. There were 8,000 fewer jobs in hospitality in December than in November, and 20,000 fewer than in September. Will the Chancellor consider reducing VAT on hospitality to the 7% it is in Germany, the 9% it is in Ireland, or the 10% it is in Spain and Italy?
Context
The MP referenced the restoration of the Alyth hotel in his constituency, highlighting its transformation from near dereliction to a successful venue. He noted that businesses face multiple burdens including VAT, wages, duty increases, energy costs, and reduced spending.
Rachel Reeves
I suggest that the people of Scotland ask who was in charge in Scotland for the last two decades, kick them out at the next election, and give Labour a chance.
Session: Topical Questions
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Happy new year to you, Mr Speaker—but unfortunately for the haulage industry, 2026 promises to be a year of increasing freight crime from haulage operators up and down these islands. Theft from commercial vehicles is a growing problem that would benefit from there being an offence for aggravated theft from commercial vehicles. I have petitioned the Scottish Government on the very same issue and I urge the Minister to look at the matter.
Context
Theft from commercial vehicles has become a significant issue for haulage operators across the UK, with instances increasing in 2026. Dave Doogan highlighted cases of Alan Davie of Forfar, Taylor’s of Forfar, and McLaughlan’s of Perth facing theft risks when drivers park overnight.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
While I am always happy to keep things under review, we currently do not think that such an offence is the answer, although that is not to say that there is not a problem—there absolutely is. I will shortly be hosting industry representatives to discuss what more is required to tackle this growing and significant problem, which the hon. Gentleman is right to identify.
Session: Rural Crime 2026-01-05 (1)
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What is your view on the challenges experienced by Forth valley businesses due to high G7 industrial energy prices, Labour's farm tax, family business tax, £26 billion raid on employing people, fiscal drag on earnings, and lack of support for key projects like Acorn?
Context
The question stems from criticism towards the UK government’s fiscal policy, particularly regarding its impact on industrial energy prices, farm taxes, employment costs, and support for Grangemouth.
James Murray (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
The hon. Member is happy to criticise tax decisions taken by this Government, but where does he think the largest spending review settlement since devolution began came from? Where does he think the £820 million announced at the autumn Budget came from? He needs to support the tax decisions we take if he wants the investment to go into Scotland.
Session: Forth Valley Industry
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What recent discussions has she had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on reducing the cost of living in Wales? The people of Wales feel abandoned by Labour over the last five decades. Why would anybody accept any more Labour, as Labour’s cost of living soars, its Westminster perma-crisis deepens, and 700,000 people in Wales live under its poverty prospectus?
Context
Following a recent election victory for Plaid Cymru, Dave Doogan questioned Labour's ability to address the rising cost of living in Wales.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
I have regular discussions with the Chancellor and Treasury Ministers on a wide range of issues, including the cost of living. This Labour Government are on the side of working people. That is why we have already taken action by increasing the national minimum wage and the national living wage for 160,000 workers across Wales. We have frozen fuel duty and extended the warm home discount. There is more to do, and we are determined to put more money into people’s pockets right across Wales.
Session: Cost of Living
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Sometimes crime wears a suit, as happened in Brechin in my constituency, where Mackie Motors had equity in their vehicles stolen by a French bank based in London. Then, through mendacity or incompetence or both, the bank turned off the oxygen for that business of 50 years. I have met with Home Office and Treasury Ministers to try to get around this. My constituent has been to the Financial Conduct Authority, who told them to go to the police, who then told them to go back to the FCA, who then told them to go to Citizens Advice—you could not make this cluster-fankle up. Is it not the case that in the UK today, if a small or medium-sized enterprise is in dispute with a bank, the Financial Conduct Authority will demonstrate that it is neither use nor ornament?
Context
A constituent of Dave Doogan's experienced equity theft from Mackie Motors by a French bank based in London. The company was subsequently shut down due to actions taken by the bank, causing significant disruption to a long-standing local business.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
I cannot comment on the specific details, as I am not aware of that case, but I am very happy to have a conversation with the hon. Member. Some SMEs in my constituency have had similar issues, so I am very happy to take that forward.
Session: Crime in City Centres
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Will he clarify that pollution levels under publicly owned Scottish Water are substantially better than those under privately owned English water companies? Will he recognise that Scottish bill payers pay lower bills and that Scottish Water’s borrowing is sustainable and consistent with the value and quality of Scotland’s water?
Context
The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs argued on 'Channel 4 News' that pollution levels are worse in Scotland than they are in England.
The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Steve Reed)
The hon. Gentleman is showing why the problem persists—if the SNP does not recognise the problem, there is no way that it can fix it. I have published the data and I stand by it: pollution under the SNP in Scotland is even worse than it was under the Tories in England. He should be thoroughly ashamed of what he is doing to the beautiful countryside of the country that he represents.
Session: Household Water Bills
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What has the Scottish Secretary ever done to get foreign direct investment into Scotland? With the exception of London, it is Scotland that tops the league for foreign direct investment. It is Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh that are among the top 10 cities in the UK for FDI, as they have been under SNP governance.
Context
The MP is questioning the Scottish Secretary's efforts to attract foreign direct investment into Scotland, noting that Scotland leads the UK for FDI.
Ian Murray (Secretary of State for Scotland)
One of the key opportunities for investment in Scotland is the opportunity to invest in the renewable energy sector, so that we can realise our plan for clean energy by 030. Much of that will be capitalised by the national wealth fund and GB Energy, both of which the hon. Gentleman and his party voted against.
Session: Industrial Strategy Impact on Scotland
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What assessment has the Minister made on the cost of water bills from increases to regulation 31 laboratory testing capacity? I wrote to her in December about that and she replied in January. I am thankful for her answer, although it was slightly on the complacent side because she said that regulation 31 does not cause a problem to water quality just now. That is true, but the industry is burning down its assets to chemicals and equipment that have been regulation 31-tested, so a problem is coming. What assessment has the Minister made of when the solution will be delivered, and what effect will that have on water bills?
Context
The hon. Member wrote to the Minister in December regarding concerns about regulation 31 laboratory testing capacity, which was replied to by the Minister in January.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Hardy)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his important question. Everything relating to regulation of water is supported and looked at through the Drinking Water Inspectorate, which carries out an assessment to make sure we have the best water quality in the whole country. If he requires any further detail, he is welcome to write to me again and I will make sure I find it.
Session: Water Bills Limiting Increases
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What assessment she has made of the potential impact of the UK’s departure from the EU on the economy in Wales? The Welsh economy suffered by £4 billion, trade has gone down by £1 billion and Wales has lost £1 billion in European structural and development funding. When will the Secretary of State stand up to her Westminster masters and finally do something in the interests of the people of Wales?
Context
After the UK's departure from the EU, Wales has suffered an economic loss of £4 billion with a decline in trade by £1 billion. Additionally, Wales has lost £1 billion in European structural and development funding.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
We are negotiating a new partnership with the EU and believe that securing a broad-based security partnership, bringing closer co-operation on law and order and tackling barriers to trade will boost our economies, keep us safe and improve families’ finances. Since coming into government, I have worked with UK and Welsh Government colleagues to drive more than £1.5 billion in private investment into Wales from the likes of Eren Holding and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, creating hundreds of jobs and laying the groundwork for thousands more.
Session: Brexit Economic Impact
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There was more good news last week for carbon capture, usage and storage workers in England, with £200 million in supply chain contracts for the Liverpool Bay HyNet project, which will even benefit north Wales now. That is on top of the £22 billion that benefits Teesside and Merseyside. I have checked, and those places were not the centre of the UK’s energy industry for the last five years. Why have the Government not allocated a single penny to the Acorn project in Scotland, where the clock is ticking and where investors are very concerned that this Government are not serious about it?
Context
The MP inquired about the lack of government support for the Acorn carbon capture project in Scotland compared to similar projects in England.
The Minister for Industry (Sarah Jones)
I welcome the hon. Gentleman’s support for Government policy and for our investment in CCUS. As he knows, Acorn is a matter for the spending review. I talk to many industries in Scotland, and everyone is supportive of the scheme. We support the scheme and are working closely with industry, but it is a matter for the spending review.
Session: Clean Energy Transition
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What impact does the Chancellor think her fiscal interventions since October will have on the attractiveness of Scotland as a destination for inward investment? What discussions has she had with the Scottish Government about the jeopardy these measures may place on Scotland's economy?
Context
Inward investment in Scotland grew by 12.7% in 2023, compared to 6% across the rest of the UK, with record investment and GDP per person growth.
The Chancellor (Emma Reynolds)
The Chancellor delivered the biggest ever settlement for Scotland in October 2024, which is why I think the answer is “thank you”.
Session: Investment Regulatory Policies
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We can listen to the braying of Labour MPs from Scotland or we can look at the fact that the Scottish economy grew 12% more than the UK economy in 2024. That is because of the SNP Scottish Government’s forensic focus on making Scotland the most attractive place in the UK for foreign direct investment year after year, having a progressive taxation system, rewarding our public sector workers properly and investing in our communities. What difference does the Minister think agricultural property relief and business property relief will have on the Scottish economy—positive or negative?
Context
The SNP highlights that Scotland's economy grew by 12% more than the UK economy in 2024, arguing for their approach to foreign direct investment, taxation, public sector funding, and community investment.
Darren Jones (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
Of course, when we make changes to taxes, even when that it is difficult, that results in additional funding for the hon. Member and his colleagues to spend. I am sure he is grateful that we have given a record-breaking increase in investment to the Scottish Government.
Session: Economic Growth Scotland
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An architect constituent of mine alerted me to his concerns about Camden council’s approach to fire safety in an application to construct a 400-guest underground hotel. At the planning stage, the London Fire Brigade expressed serious concerns that the proposed safety features would be difficult to maintain and dangerous were they to fail. A freedom of information request revealed that the London Fire Brigade’s fire safety compliance team felt their concerns were ignored by Camden council at planning. Will the Minister commit to reviewing regulations to see whether they are sufficient to ensure that local authorities in England properly attend to serious concerns raised by local fire brigades?
Context
An architect constituent alerted Dave Doogan to concerns about fire safety in a Camden council planning application for an underground hotel. The London Fire Brigade expressed serious concerns that were reportedly ignored by the local authority.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Alex Norris)
I am not sure that I can comment on the application the hon. Gentleman is talking about, as it will, of course, have been subject to the planning process as established in law. However, I can say that one of the changes that the Deputy Prime Minister made early on in our time in government was to ensure that approved document B can be updated quickly and in real time, so that if issues are highlighted, the regulations can keep up and buildings can be kept safe.
Session: Fire Safety Local Authority Planning
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Doogan highlighted the lack of change from US State Department’s rowback despite the President’s statement implying ethnic cleansing. He asked for confirmation if the UK sees this plan as ethnic cleansing, what they understand it to be, and how they will address the 50-year vacuum of inaction regarding Palestinians.
Context
The context is the perceived ethnic cleansing implications of US President's statements. The question addresses UK Government's stance on these allegations and long-standing international inaction.
Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)
Dodds reiterated the UK’s decisions that differ from previous governments, including clear stances on international legal bodies’ jurisdiction. She highlighted efforts like removing UNWRA funding bans and supporting moves at the UN Security Council towards a two-state solution.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
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What would help bill payers is the £300 cut to energy bills that the Labour party promised in its manifesto. Instead, bills went up £149 in October, they went up £21 in January, and they are going up again by £99 in April. Can the Minister explain where the source of this departmental ineptitude lies, and would she like to apologise to the people of these islands for writing cheques that her party cannot cash?
Context
Labour's promise to cut energy bills by £300 has not been realized, while energy bills continue to rise.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Miatta Fahnbulleh)
The hon. Member explains exactly why we need to wean ourselves off fossil fuel markets. That is why it is critical that we deliver clean power by 2030—that is the central mission of this team, and we are running at it. The Scottish Government do have the levers to protect households in fuel poverty. Before the hon. Member criticises us, they should get their house in order and get on with the job.
Session: Energy Suppliers Winter Support for Consumers
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Neither the US Federal Reserve nor the EU Central Bank are engaged in active quantitative tightening, but the Bank of England is. The Bank of England is costing the public finances in the region of £13 billion a year as a result of a fire sale of UK Government bonds. Last time I spoke to the Chancellor about that, she said that that was because of the Bank of England’s operational independence, which we all value, but that is not a licence for impunity. What discussions will she have with the Bank of England about releasing UK Government debt in a way that benefits everybody in the UK?
Context
The US Federal Reserve and EU Central Bank are not engaging in active quantitative tightening, while the Bank of England is. The cost to public finances due to a fire sale of UK Government bonds by the Bank of England is around £13 billion annually.
The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Emma Reynolds)
It is our view that it is absolutely right that the Bank of England has operational independence. That is in line with international standards and what is happening in jurisdictions around the world, including in the United States and the eurozone.
Session: Topical Questions
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What has the Chancellor seen in her impact assessment regarding agricultural property relief changes that might mitigate fears of farm buyouts?
Context
The MP is concerned about foreign multinationals buying up farms due to tax reforms.
Rachel Reeves
The current challenge is tax avoidance through agricultural property relief. We reform the system to bring in money for public services, offering a 50% discount on inheritance tax with a 10-year interest-free payment period.
Session: Economic Investment
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The Secretary of State speaks to a UK commitment to “NATO first”, and that is great, but we have just seen the election of a US President who is putting America first and the defence of Europe in the hands of European states, which makes the prevarication over 2.5% all the more difficult. Will he accept that a commitment without a date is watery and that only a date will provide a commitment? Will it be in this Parliament—yes or no?
Context
Concern over the new US President's stance on NATO defence funding.
John Healey
I do not accept that for a moment. It is a commitment and a level of defence spending that we have not seen for 15 years. As far as the new President goes, it is early days—he has only just been elected—and we will ensure that as a Government and as a country we work closely with him and with the US.
Session: Topical Questions
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When will this Government do a single thing for people facing fuel poverty?
Context
The MP criticizes cuts to winter fuel payments and pensioners' cost of living payment, citing a manifesto promise not fulfilled.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
We are working across the country to tackle fuel poverty, but I remind the hon. Member that fuel payments are devolved and it is time for the Scottish Government to fix their situation with a larger budget.
Session: Warm Homes Plan
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Can the Chancellor tell us, to the nearest £10 billion, how much extra would be available for long-term investment were it not for the fire sale of UK Government bonds by the Bank of England, costing the taxpayer dearly?
Context
The question arises from concerns over the impact of UK Government bonds being sold by the Bank of England, potentially affecting long-term investment.
Rachel Reeves
I started my career as an economist at the Bank of England, and unlike Conservative Members, I think it is incredibly important to recognise the independence of our economic institutions, including the Bank of England and, indeed, the Office for Budget Responsibility.
Session: Economic Investment and Growth
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After a bungled fraud investigation by Renault Crédit International, it, together with Renault-Nissan UK Ltd moved to seize the assets of a business in my constituency, Mackie Motors Brechin Ltd. This cost my constituent half a million pounds and 25% of his order book value. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss the finer points of this clearly very dubious act by a UK bank?
Context
A business in the MP's constituency was severely impacted by a fraud investigation involving Renault Crédit International, leading to significant financial loss.
Dan Jarvis
I am concerned to hear about the case that the hon. Gentleman raises, and I would be happy to meet him to discuss it further.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can I share with the Secretary of State the plight of my constituent, who went without child maintenance payments for six months? That happened not because of anything done wrong by her, or the paying parent, or the paying parent's employer, which processed the direct deduction of earnings order, but because the Child Maintenance Service misplaced the payments. Will the Secretary of State apologise for that mishap? What plans does she have to rectify that deeply flawed organisation?
Context
A constituent went without child maintenance payments for six months due to the Child Maintenance Service mishandling payments.
Andrew Western
I am very sorry to hear of this case. I am not familiar with it, but I will look into it, if the hon. Gentleman contacts me with the details.
Session: Topical Questions
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What advice would he give the Chancellor to mirror the efforts of the Scottish Government to have a more progressive and fair tax system for workers?
Context
The MP points out the Scottish Government's tax-raising powers and asks for advice on mirroring a more progressive tax system in Scotland.
Kirsty McNeill
The Institute for Fiscal Studies says that Scottish Government policies have cost Scotland money. This Government is undertaking an audit to clear up inherited spending messes, focusing on the £22 billion black hole and getting the economy back on track.
Session: Support for Working People
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The Chancellor knew about Scottish pensioners' challenges before cutting the winter fuel payment and stripping £160 million from Scotland's pensioners. What discussions did she have with new Labour MPs about pushing Scottish pensioners into fuel poverty?
Context
Scottish pensioners face issues with low temperatures, old houses, and off-gas-grid situations. The winter fuel payment cut affects them.
Rachel Reeves
The Scottish Government mirrors UK decisions on tax powers despite fiscal challenges, given a £22 billion public finance gap.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I congratulate the Minister and his Front-Bench colleagues on their appointments. I welcome the suggestion that the Government are considering the possibility of a royal commission on social care and intend to address the issue on a cross-party basis, but that will take time. Can the Minister confirm that they will take forward the Dilnot reforms as was suggested during the election campaign?
Context
The question is about the implementation of the Dilnot reforms, particularly focusing on a cap on social care costs. The previous government's handling of these issues is also referenced.
Andrew Gwynne
It was, of course, the right hon. Gentleman's Government who kicked the can down the road on these issues. They allowed the system to spend the transformation money that had been provided precisely for the purpose of the Dilnot reforms on fixing their broken national health service. He should just be a little bit patient, as we will announce our proposals for social care shortly.
Session: Health and Social Care Reform
View All Questions -->
Since 2007, per person, the SNP has built 40% more homes than Tory England and 70% more homes than Labour Wales and ensured 65% of the Scottish social rented sector has an EPC rating of C or above. Insulation levels in Scotland are way higher than in England. It is clear that the UK Government have materially failed to abate the demand side of the energy system to any meaningful extent. What will the Minister do, in the few weeks they have left in office, to atone for this glaring betrayal of bill payers?
Context
The MP is criticising the UK Government's failure to improve energy efficiency in England.
Amanda Solloway
Unlike the hon. Gentleman, we have not abandoned our targets, and there has been good progress and improved household energy efficiency. Around half of our homes—48% in England—have now reached the Government's 2035 target of achieving an EPC rating of C, up from 14% in 2010.
Session: Social Housing Energy Efficiency
View All Questions -->
With the Climate Change Committee stating that the Scottish Government's heat in buildings Bill could become the template for the UK, helping Scotland to decarbonise faster than anywhere else in the UK, would the Minister like to visit the Scottish Government in Edinburgh? I can arrange that for her, so that she can see climate leadership in action.
Context
The MP is highlighting the Scottish Government's efforts to improve energy efficiency in buildings.
Amanda Solloway
I reiterate that energy efficiency is incredibly important to us on the Government Benches and to the Government. I would be happy to come on a visit to Edinburgh. Indeed, I have already visited there.
Session: Social Housing Energy Efficiency
View All Questions -->
I am unsurprised that I got no answer to my question because I never got an answer to that question on 8 January or to my point of order on 24 March. Will the Secretary of State tell me a different answer: did BAE Systems approach the MOD to buy HMS Argyll, or did the MOD approach BAE Systems?
Context
The MP is upset about not getting an answer to previous questions on HMS Argyll's fate, seeking clarification on who approached whom.
Grant Shapps
I am pleased that the hon. Gentleman recognises that my hon. Friend the Minister for Defence Procurement has written to him on the subject, and I have no doubt that he will wish to engage with the hon. Gentleman further.
Session: Defence Funding Efficient Spending
View All Questions -->
Increased defence spending is obviously only a means to an end. It is not an end in itself. The Treasury rightly takes a jaundiced view of the MOD's ability to spend money wisely so, to that end, can the Secretary of State advise the House on how much taxpayers' money and defence budget was spent refitting HMS Argyll, only for her to be paid off immediately after she came out of refit?
Context
The MP is questioning the efficiency of spending on refitting HMS Argyll, which was then paid off.
Grant Shapps
There is no way that the Treasury, given its very tight hold on the fiscal regime, would approve spending 2.5% of GDP on defence if it did not have confidence in how we will spend it.
Session: Defence Funding Efficient Spending
View All Questions -->
Since we started this session over an hour ago, four WASPI women have passed away while discussing their pensions' challenges. The Government has shown prompt action in penalising them but will they demonstrate the same urgency to compensate?
Context
Four WASPI women have died since the debate began, highlighting the urgency of compensating these individuals affected by pension reforms. The Government previously acted swiftly in implementing changes that penalised these women.
Mel Stride
All Government policies are properly costed, and their impact on taxpayers and the economy is considered. The report has been thoroughly reviewed, and we will reach conclusions as quickly as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Brexit has been a disaster for UK farmers but Scotland offers certainty beyond 2027 while Wales and England do not. What steps will the Government take to provide similar surety for English farmers?
Context
The MP stated that Scotland provides funding surety beyond 2027, unlike Labour-run Wales and Tory-run England. The SNP's approach is contrasted.
Steve Barclay
We can tailor our response with specific legislation such as gene editing and procurement/labelling laws, and through schemes like the SFI where more than 20,000 farmers are signed up.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Terminal Illness: Early Access to Pensions
02 May 2023
Responding: Laura Trott
Main Concerns
['More than a quarter of people who die before retirement age spend their final days in poverty, with some Angus constituents facing financial difficulties due to terminal illness. Constituents like Ian Bain are unable to access their state pension despite having paid national insurance contributions for over 35 years and being terminally ill. The costs of terminal illnesses can reach up to £16,000 a year, exacerbating financial strain.']
Specific Asks
['The UK Government should consider permitting terminally ill people to access their state pension regardless of age, which could lift over 8,600 people out of poverty annually at an estimated cost of £144 million per year, representing only 0.1% of the annual state pension bill.']
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
08 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The House recognises the threat posed by Russia and China, as well as the uncertainty regarding US reliability within NATO. It acknowledges the UK's current military shortfalls and calls for a program...
Opposition Day
07 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Defence Investment Plan
30 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Opposition Day
23 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the motion expressing regret over the chaos in Government, particularly regarding the temporary Prime Minister's attendance at the NATO summit. Calls on the Government to spend 3% of GDP on defe...
Processed Russian Oil Products: Sanctions
20 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson: Government Response to Humble Address
19 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Energy Security
19 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Criticises the Government's energy policy, particularly the ban on new oil and gas licences. Emphasises the negative impact of these policies on Aberdeen, the North East of Scotland, and UK economic s...
Debate on the Address
13 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Referral of Prime Minister to Committee of Privileges
28 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion calls for the matter of Peter Mandelson's appointment as US Ambassador to be referred to the Privileges Committee due to claims that the Prime Minister misled the House. Kemi Badenoch argue...
Attendance
39.8%
39 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
31
31.6% of votes
No Votes
8
8.2% of votes
Abstentions
59
60.2% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
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 AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
7
PMQs Asked
131
Ministerial Questions Asked
201
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+877% above average
This MP:
131
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+4036% above average
This MP:
201
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 (%)
-42% below average
This MP:
39.8
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 Dave Doogan's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.