David Lammy
MP for Tottenham
Lab
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Prime Minister's Questions
No PMQs questions found for this MP.
Mr Lammy criticised the government's proposal for criminal trials without juries as a bad idea, pointing out that even the Justice Secretary acknowledges its drawbacks. He challenged the government on how long they must wait for another U-turn regarding this policy.
Context
The Justice Secretary suggested that criminal trials without juries could help reduce the backlog in court cases, but this idea faced criticism and has been described as a bad idea by some.
David Lammy ( Tottenham ) (Lab)
The hon. Member’s colleagues are going to other Benches in this House, it is a bit rich raising what my colleagues are up to on the Back Benches when the hon. Member knows that article 40 of Magna Carta makes it clear that justice delayed is justice denied.
Session: Changes to Jury Trials
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Does the Minister agree that Hamas should accept a new offer on table for immediate ceasefire?
Context
A ceasefire is needed to end the war in Gaza, where more than 30,000 Palestinians are dead.
Andrew Mitchell
The right hon. Gentleman makes a very good point, and although negotiations are fluid at the moment, he is correct that Hamas should accept the deal on the table.
Session: Middle East UN Security Council
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Last week the US Congress agreed a new $61 billion aid package for Ukraine. The bipartisan co-operation led by Mike Johnson is essential if Ukraine is to continue to defend against Putin's illegal invasion. I am proud that this House will stand united on Ukraine for as long as it takes to win. Will the Minister update the House on progress with our G7 allies to seize and repurpose frozen Russian state assets in the UK, to support the reconstruction of Ukraine?
Context
The US Congress agreed a new $61 billion aid package for Ukraine to support its defence against Putin's invasion.
Andrew Mitchell
The Government are seeking agreement on a way of advancing this matter with the G7. The right hon. Gentleman is right about the mechanism, and we are doing everything we can with our allies to achieve precisely what he describes.
Session: Topical Questions
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For a decade now, the Labour party has supported Palestinian recognition. After the unacceptable comments by Prime Minister Netanyahu, does the Prime Minister agree that no country has a veto over the UK's decision to recognise Palestine?
Context
The Labour party has supported Palestinian recognition for a decade. Prime Minister Netanyahu made unacceptable comments regarding the issue.
Andrew Mitchell
We will pursue the policy that we think is right. The Foreign Secretary set out clearly in his remarks last night the importance of a credible route to a Palestinian state and a new future.
Session: Palestinian State Recognition
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What steps is the Foreign Secretary taking to prepare for further escalation and to deter all parties from full-blown regional war?
Context
Worries about a potential widening of the conflict involving West Bank violence and Israeli actions in Lebanon.
Andrew Mitchell
The Prime Minister moved a British military asset to the eastern end of the Mediterranean early after 7 October, for surveillance and eyes-on support. Diplomatic efforts are devoted to preventing conflict widening.
Session: Violence in the West Bank
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Given the similarities between Putin's actions and Maduro's, can you reaffirm the UK's support for Guyana's territorial integrity?
Context
Maduro regime is threatening Guyana's borders.
Andrew Mitchell
Yes, I can. Yesterday I attended a meeting convened by the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, and it put out a statement last night which I very much hope will reassure the right hon. Gentleman.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Foreign Secretary agree that Israel must follow the laws of war by taking every possible step to protect civilians, ensuring aid is rapid and safe, lifting blocks on essential supplies like water and medicines, and preventing permanent displacement? Does he also agree this is necessary for long-term peace?
Context
The situation in Gaza is causing significant distress. The question addresses the need for Israel to adhere to international laws during military operations.
James Cleverly
The preservation of civilian life remains a priority, and we discuss with Israel regularly to ensure they abide by international law. The goal is to prevent this from becoming a regional conflict through professionalism and restraint.
Session: Israel and Palestine
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With reports of potential hostage releases stalling, can you update on progress to secure the release of all 200 hostages held by Hamas?
Context
The urgency of quiet diplomacy is highlighted, referencing George Mitchell's quote about the need for timely success. Reports suggest possible hostage release discussions have stalled.
James Cleverly
The Prime Minister and other leaders remain focused on bilateral conversations with regional leaders to secure hostage releases.
Session: Israel and Palestine
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Is it true that our diplomats warned Ministers that the Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) Bill would breach our obligations under UN resolution 2334? If so, why is Michael Gove undermining UK foreign policy?
Context
Recent events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories include new illegal settlements, violence, terrorist attacks, and civilian deaths. The Government has focused on an ill-conceived bill despite warnings from diplomats.
David Rutley
The shadow Secretary of State is correct that these are really concerning issues and there is a lot of passion on both sides of the House. The Government's position was agreed by the FCDO and all relevant Government Departments.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
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Will the Minister say when the UK will sanction those individuals responsible for the worst human rights abuses in that conflict? The questioner points to ongoing impunity and seeks clarity on timing of sanctions against perpetrators identified by the FCDO report.
Context
Sri Lankan Government faces allegations of accountability evasion and delays, with the FCDO human rights and democracy report identifying Sri Lanka as a priority for such issues.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
We will continue to urge the Sri Lankan Government to uphold their constitutional and democratic processes. Those concerns were made clear in statements to the UN Human Rights Council most recently on 20 June. Imposing sanctions is one response among other diplomatic tools to tackle serious human rights violations and abuses, but it would not be appropriate for me to speculate about future designations because that could reduce the impact.
Session: Sri Lanka Alleged War Crimes
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Does the Foreign Secretary agree that once, with our support, Ukraine has prevailed in its war against Russia's invasion, there can be no Minsk 3.0?
Context
The MP asked about the Foreign Secretary's agreement on supporting Ukraine and his stance against a Minsk 3.0.
James Cleverly
I agree with the Government's stance that Ukraine's rightful place is within NATO, and our support will help speed up its path to full membership.
Session: NATO Unity
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Our allies in the United States, the European Union, Australia and Germany have all entered the global race to reach net zero and create the jobs of the future with massive public investment, but the Government's Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero described the United States Inflation Reduction Act as “dangerous” and the Chancellor described it as “distortive” and “not the British way.” Does the Foreign Secretary agree with his colleagues in Cabinet or our allies in the United States?
Context
The UK government's Secretary of State and Chancellor have described the act as dangerous and distortive, contrasting with allies' investment strategies.
David Rutley
We are working incredibly closely with the United States. They are taking their steps forward; we do not want to get involved with the subsidy race, because the UK had a head start of over a decade on green investment. As the right hon. Gentleman knows, as we have been at similar meetings, we are working incredibly closely with the United States and it is a very strong relationship. In my recent visit to the US we highlighted that there is $1 trillion invested in each of our economies; we are going to move forward from that very strong space.
Session: US Inflation Reduction Act
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Newsnight reported last week about at least 24 NHS doctors who were British residents but had not boarded evacuation flights. Can the Foreign Secretary confirm that all 24, along with any other NHS doctors requiring evacuation, were safely returned to the UK so they can resume their duties in a strained NHS?
Context
Reports indicate that at least 24 NHS doctors who were British residents but not yet evacuated faced uncertainty. The Foreign Secretary's previous response did not fully address the specific issue.
James Cleverly
My right hon. Friend the Africa Minister has provided updated figures indicating that 22 of the identified 24 individuals have been directly evacuated by us. It is important to note that some evacuees may have found their own routes out, and we coordinate closely with NHS and direct conversations to ensure full service.
Session: Sudan Emergency Situation
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With the evacuation now concluded, I question whether all correct decisions were made during the operation. Initially, the evacuation was halted once diplomats were out while other countries continued their efforts. Additionally, reports suggest that NHS doctors resident in the UK were initially turned away despite requesting to be evacuated. Can the Foreign Secretary confirm that every NHS doctor who requested an evacuation was indeed evacuated, regardless of citizenship status?
Context
Following the operation to evacuate British nationals and others from Sudan, concerns have been raised about the treatment of NHS doctors who were residents in the UK. Reports indicate that at least 24 NHS doctors who were British residents but not yet evacuated faced uncertainty.
James Cleverly
The right hon. Gentleman is factually incorrect regarding his points in the question. After evacuating diplomatic staff, which was both a moral and legal duty, we continued planning for a wider operation including various eventualities. When opportunities arose, we conducted one of the largest airlifts involving British nationals, their dependants, and others from Sudan. We maintain ongoing support through our presence at Port Sudan and border regions to continue facilitating evacuations.
Session: Sudan Emergency Situation
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Last week, in response to my urgent question, the Government admitted that there was no ministerial oversight when they granted a sanctions waiver to Putin warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin enabling him to launch a legal attack on a British journalist. The Treasury conceded that it would consider changing the rules. What is the Foreign Office doing to ensure that the sanctions regime is never undermined in that way again?
Context
The Government granted a sanctions waiver to Putin ally Yevgeny Prigozhin, allowing him to launch legal attacks on British journalists. The Treasury conceded that they would consider changing the rules.
James Cleverly
The House will understand why I do not speak in detail about that specific case, but I know that a Treasury Minister responded to the right hon. Gentleman's urgent question. More broadly, the whole point of sanctions is that they deter and change behaviour. That is why the enforcement of sanctions is so important. It is done predominantly through the Treasury, working very closely with my Department and in close co-ordination with our international partners. Enforcing sanctions is just as important as issuing them, so we will continue to work closely internationally to ensure that they are robust.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is the real problem that the Prime Minister is in the pocket of the European Research Group, too weak to stand up to his Back Benchers, and putting his party before Northern Ireland?
Context
There has been an impasse on the Northern Ireland protocol for 18 months, with rhetoric and threats rather than negotiations.
James Cleverly
The right hon. Gentleman needs to keep up. We have had very well-tempered negotiations between the UK and EU negotiators. He will find in our public reporting of those negotiations that there has been a high degree of mutual respect. He says that there is an easy resolution. If he believes that, all I would say is that we are waiting to hear it. If it were easy, it would have been done already.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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Why is the Government not setting up a special tribunal to prosecute Putin or implementing measures like Canada's to shift frozen Russian assets into rebuilding Ukraine funds?
Context
Labour has called for a special tribunal to prosecute Putin, which would aid in securing justice for war victims by legally seizing Russian assets.
James Cleverly
We are exploring legally robust mechanisms to seize assets from individuals supporting Putin, aiming at reparations and reconstruction. We will learn from the Canadian model to ensure a robust legal vehicle for these measures.
Session: Ukraine War Crimes
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Last week, the courageous Dunn family finally secured some justice for Harry, but the disrespect that they received from Ministers at the FCDO was a disgrace. Given the latest allegations that a bullying Tory Minister caused delays to Afghan evacuations, does the Foreign Secretary accept the need for an independent review of whether there has been a toxic culture at the FCDO that is undermining Britain on the global stage?
Context
The MP is concerned about the disrespect shown by Ministers at the FCDO to the Dunn family in a recent meeting.
James Cleverly
I completely reject the points the right hon. Gentleman has made. I pay tribute to my predecessor, the former Foreign Secretary, for the work that he did pursuing justice for the Dunn family, and I think it is completely inappropriate for the right hon. Gentleman to suggest anything otherwise.
Session: Topical Questions
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Let me return to Alaa Abdel Fattah, a British citizen and democracy campaigner who was imprisoned in Egypt for sharing a Facebook post. His mother waited outside Wadi el-Natrun prison on Monday for the weekly letter from her son, but no letter came out. He has stopped drinking water and his life is now in grave danger. For too long, the Government's diplomacy has been weak. The Prime Minister raised the case yesterday but failed to secure consular access before he did so. What diplomatic price has Egypt paid for denying the right of consular access to a British citizen? Will the Minister make it clear that there will be serious diplomatic consequences if access is not granted immediately and Alaa is not released and reunited with his family?
Context
The MP discusses Alaa Abdel Fattah, a British citizen and democracy campaigner who was imprisoned for sharing a Facebook post. He notes that the Prime Minister raised the case but failed to secure consular access.
Andrew Mitchell
The shadow Foreign Secretary is absolutely right to raise that case. For that reason, the Prime Minister made a particular point of making representations to his opposite number in Egypt, and I very much hope that those representations will be heard.
Session: Human Rights
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For years, the Conservative Government have failed to act strategically on China. Recently, the Foreign Secretary avoided responsibility by letting officials meet with the Chinese embassy over a Hongkonger beaten in Manchester and gave no answers about alleged Chinese police stations operating in the UK. Our allies are taking major steps like CHIPS and Science Act 1922 and Germany's public stance against nuclear use. When will the Government publish their China strategy?
Context
Allies like the US and Germany are taking strategic steps in response to Chinese actions, but the UK has not published its promised strategy yet.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
The UK is clear that China remains in an ongoing state of non-compliance with the Sino-British joint declaration. We continue to work across Government on the question of a China strategy and will work with our international partners to hold China to its obligations.
Session: Relations with China BNO Visa Scheme
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We are facing a cost of living crisis in which bills are sky-rocketing and people across the country will face the choice between eating or heating. Instead of proposing a solution, the Conservatives have spent the summer ramping up the rhetoric on the protocol, to risk new trade barriers with Europe. This Minister has had a recent elevation. Will he take this opportunity to commit to scrapping the reckless Northern Ireland Protocol Bill so that the Government can begin serious negotiations with the EU to fix the protocol and avoid hitting the British public in their pockets?
Context
The government's focus on the protocol amid a cost-of-living crisis has raised concerns about potential trade barriers with Europe and negative impacts on the public.
Graham Stuart
I thank the right hon. Gentleman for yet again making it so crystal clear, both to the House and to the British public, that in any dispute he and his party will always side with the EU and not with the interests of the British people. [Interruption.] As he says, I am horribly new to this brief. The first thing I did on the first weekend after my appointment was to read the protocol. It does not matter how we look at it, the protocol is not functioning and it is not working. For him and his party to suggest that it is us and not the EU that needs to change tack shows that, yet again, he betrays the British people and shows why Labour now, in the past and in the future is unfit for office.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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According to the UN Secretary General, people are 15 times more likely to die if they live in a climate crisis hotspot, which is what we see unfolding right now in Pakistan, with more than 6 million people in dire need of humanitarian aid and already more than 1,000 people dead. Last year, at COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland became the first developed economy in the world, led by our First Minister, to pledge dedicated loss and damage funding. Ahead of COP27, will the UK Government finally commit to establishing a similar loss and damage policy in line with the 2015 Paris climate accord?
Context
Scotland became the first developed economy to pledge dedicated loss and damage funding at COP26. The UN Secretary General has highlighted the urgent need for such policies, especially in light of crises like those in Pakistan.
Vicky Ford
We are working with countries across the world to ensure that everybody holds up the promises that they made at COP26. We understand the challenges that many countries are facing, including the terrible situation in Pakistan, where we have already donated more than 10% of what the UN and Pakistan have asked for to meet their emergency need.
Session: COP27
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The protocol Bill introduced to this House last week breaks international law. It risks the integrity of the Good Friday agreement. It divides the UK and the European Union at a time when we should be pulling together against Putin's war on our continent, and it risks causing new trade barriers during a cost of living crisis.
Context
The protocol Bill risks the integrity of the Good Friday agreement, divides UK and EU, and is not enough to get DUP to commit to return to Stormont.
Elizabeth Truss
I am afraid to say that nothing the right hon. Gentleman has just said is accurate. The fact is that our Bill is legal, and we have laid it out in a legal statement. We are putting forward solutions—a green lane and a red lane—that protect the EU single market as well as allowing goods to flow freely around the United Kingdom.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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Millions face starvation in Afghanistan, Yemen, Lebanon, Ethiopia, Mali, and Ukraine. Given the scale of these crises, why has humanitarian aid been reduced by 35% compared to pre-cut levels?
Context
The question is about the reduction of humanitarian aid despite ongoing conflicts and starvation issues.
Elizabeth Truss
We are a major donor of humanitarian aid. On the Ukraine crisis, we are the third largest donor in the world. Through our international development strategy, we are committing £3 billion-worth of humanitarian aid over the next three years.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Foreign Secretary explain her failure to bring India into the international coalition condemning Putin's invasion of Ukraine?
Context
The MP criticises the Prime Minister for not addressing India's stance on the Ukraine conflict during his visit.
Elizabeth Truss
Of course, I have discussed the issue of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine with the Indian Government, but the right hon. Gentleman is completely wrong if he thinks that the right approach for Britain is to go around finger-wagging to the rest of the world rather than working to build strong relationships and partnerships to attract India and others to work more closely with us.
Session: India Economic and Security Relationship
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What actions are being taken to remove barriers to peace, such as respecting holy sites, preventing Hamas rocket attacks, ending illegal settlements expansion, and recognising Palestine?
Context
Recent violence, including attacks on Israelis and Palestinians, has raised concerns about barriers to peace.
Amanda Milling
We are deeply concerned about the security situation. We work with key partners to encourage de-escalation and prevent further violence. Conversations are held to play our part in preventing escalation.
Session: International Fund for Israeli-Palestinian Peace
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The right hon. Member questioned why the Government has not created a special tribunal to hold Vladimir Putin personally responsible for the war in Ukraine, as supported by Ukraine's Foreign Minister, several allies, partners, and leading lawyers.
Context
The world witnessed Putin's actions leading to the invasion of Ukraine, which is considered a crime of aggression. The creation of a special tribunal would hold Vladimir Putin and his associates accountable.
Elizabeth Truss
The Government agrees that there are crimes taking place in Ukraine and is working with 38 states to put a case to the ICC. The UK wants to work on collecting evidence for war crimes, as will be done by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Justice.
Session: Russia Sanctions
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Two weeks into this awful war, Ukraine has suffered terribly but stands defiant. Putin is isolated, his economy is in freefall and his actions are condemned around the world. We are united in our desire to ratchet up pressure on Putin, but the UK has sanctioned just eight of the Navalny 35 list of oligarchs. The EU has sanctioned 19 and the US has sanctioned 15. We welcome the Government's U-turn on sanctions legislation yesterday, which should help us to catch up, but sanctions against oligarchs work only if we know where their wealth is hidden. Will the Government commit to urgently reforming Companies House, to leave Putin-linked crooks with nowhere to hide?
Context
UK has sanctioned just eight of the Navalny 35 list of oligarchs; EU has sanctioned 19, US 15.
Elizabeth Truss
First, the right hon. Gentleman needs to look at the overall size of our sanctions. The UK has targeted £364 billion-worth of assets, whereas the US has targeted £340 billion and the EU has targeted £124 billion. We have led the way, whether on SWIFT, freezing bank assets or closing ports.
Session: Russia Sanctions
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We owe it to the people of Ukraine to send a simple and united message: we support their sovereign democratic right to choose their own destiny and we will stand with them in this struggle against Putin's reckless aggression. And we should send a firm, unambiguous message to Putin that any aggression will come at a high price, so will the Secretary of State assure me that any Russian military incursion or attack will be met with a full package of sanctions, unprecedented in depth and severity, cutting Russia out of the global financial system, blocking rouble conversion, halting exports of semiconductors and finally clamping down on the oligarchs who hide their ill-gotten wealth in this capital city?
Context
The situation in Ukraine has prompted concerns about the potential for Russian military incursion and its implications for international relations.
Elizabeth Truss
I strongly agree again with the right hon. Gentleman. We will make sure that we have the wherewithal to have a very severe package of sanctions in the case of any Russian incursion into Ukraine. We have been working with allies such as the United States, France and Germany to put that together. That is why we brought people together at the G7 in Liverpool, where we said that there would be severe economic consequences of an incursion into Ukraine.
Session: Ukraine Diplomatic Efforts
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As we stand here today, peace in Europe faces its greatest threat in decades. Our darkest moments in history have taught us that aggression must be challenged and bullies must be confronted. Putin's imperialism must be met with our utmost strength and resolve. Twenty-eight years ago, Britain, America and Russia promised that if Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons, its sovereignty would be assured. Putin has already run roughshod over that by annexing Crimea and backing separatists in the Donbass. Now he threatens Ukraine with full invasion. I ask the Secretary of State: at a time when arms control treaties have unravelled and non-proliferation efforts are under great strain, what message would it send to other countries in the world with nuclear ambitions, such as Iran, if those assurances to Ukraine were worth nothing?
Context
Russia's actions towards Ukraine have raised concerns about the protection of sovereignty.
Elizabeth Truss
The right hon. Gentleman makes an extremely good point. In the 1994 Budapest memorandum, Ukraine agreed to give up its nuclear weapons in exchange for the continued protection of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Session: Ukraine Diplomatic Efforts
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What impression does the Minister think this gives to our allies across the globe? When will the resettlement scheme actually be up and running? The questioner highlights the perceived abandonment of Afghan allies who stood up for democratic freedom and rule of law.
Context
The Prime Minister promised to help evacuate Afghans in danger, but many have been left behind, including female judges and other vulnerable individuals.
Amanda Milling
The evacuation from Afghanistan involved 5,000 locally employed Afghan staff and special cases of vulnerable Afghans including Chevening scholars, journalists, human rights defenders and judges. The resettlement scheme will provide protection for the most vulnerable identified as at risk, to be announced by the Home Office in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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How can the Government hope to maintain good relations around the world with a Prime Minister who is more interested in burning bridges than building them? The questioner criticises the Prime Minister's approach and its impact on relations.
Context
The incident involved the deaths of 27 people attempting to cross from France to the UK. Both Governments have engaged in public disputes over this issue.
Vicky Ford
The incident in the channel last week was tragic. The Prime Minister spoke to French President Macron on 24 November, agreeing on stepping up joint efforts to prevent deadly crossings and stop gangs responsible for putting lives at risk. UK and French Ministers discuss issues including small boats, with Home Secretary regularly contacting her counterpart.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am glad to see the Minister come to the aid of the Secretary of State, but he has not answered whether it is a year, eight years or 2025. The Secretary of State told Sky News today that he did not recognise that there was a workforce crisis in the criminal justice system. The Lord Chancellor has got to get real.
Context
The workforce in the criminal justice system is facing a major crisis, with solicitors and barristers leaving in droves.
James Cartlidge
It is extraordinary: 43 minutes ago, Labour voted to keep clogging up courts with immigration cases. Those take up precious court time. We are taking measures to address this issue.
Session: Crown Court Backlog
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On 5 October, the Secretary of State said it would take up to 12 months to get the backlog down to pre-pandemic levels. Yet we know now that the backlog may not return to those levels until 2025. Just this morning, he said it could take up to eight years. Was he mistaken when he said it would only take a year?
Context
The Secretary of State previously stated that backlog would stabilise within a year, but now the Ministry of Justice predicts it may take until 2025.
James Cartlidge
What my right hon. Friend the Lord Chancellor actually said was that cases would start to stabilise now, at around 60,000 backlog. We accept it is still significant but see a very significant improvement in timeliness since July when Crown courts disposed of more cases than any time since November 2018.
Session: Crown Court Backlog
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Can he confirm whether the number of Afghan judges relocated to the UK remains in single digits, what the number currently is, and how much higher it could be if the Foreign Secretary had not been missing in action?
Context
A list of 126 Afghan judges at risk was sent to the Foreign Office but received no response, and only nine have been relocated.
Robert Buckland
I have been working directly with the legal sector, the Bar Council and individual leading members of the profession virtually daily. I will not rest until we do everything we can to help these dedicated professionals. The list mentioned is something I would love to see; I will keep the House updated on numbers as they are made available.
Session: Judges and Legal Professionals Afghanistan
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Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. In the middle of a pandemic, the Secretary of State's Government are prioritising attacking the Human Rights Act and judicial review, disenfranchising millions of voters with the Elections Bill on voter ID, and, now, threatening to break international law to make it harder for asylum seekers, including those from Afghanistan, to find sanctuary in Britain. The new president of the Law Society recently warned that those measures put respect for the rule of law in jeopardy in the UK. What does the Secretary of State say to the president of the Law Society?
Context
MP criticises government's approach to the rule of law.
Robert Buckland
I think the right hon. Gentleman will find that, across the piece, the commentary that has followed my speech and the introduction of the Judicial Review and Courts Bill has reflected the fact that this is a measured and incremental approach to constitutional reform, as, I am sure, will be the work on the independent review of the Human Rights Act.
Session: The Rule of Law
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My constituent suffered 13 months of abuse from her ex-husband who was given a restraining order. Will the Government strengthen sentences for stalking and commit to greater support for victims?
Context
The question concerns the support and sentencing guidelines for victims of stalking, highlighting a specific constituent's case.
Alex Chalk
Stalking became an offence in 2012; maximum sentence doubled to 10 years. Prioritising these cases with police and courts.
Session: Topical Questions
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In March, the Lord Chancellor told the Justice Committee he would not allow similar issues at Rainsbrook secure training centre. Yet this happened again within a year and a half. Does he feel like a fool? What consequences will there be to ensure such failures do not happen again?
Context
The question addresses a previous statement of intent from the Lord Chancellor to prevent a recurrence of issues at Rainsbrook, which did occur again recently.
Robert Buckland
Immediate action was taken upon receiving reports; children were moved out of harm's way. Work continues on the overall future of Rainsbrook, with clear messages given to providers about expectations and no second chances.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Lord Chancellor respond to the UN special rapporteur's assessment that recent UK legislation will make human rights abuses more likely? The questioner highlights specific laws and asks how the Lord Chancellor, in his role as a defender of human rights, will address these concerns on his two-year anniversary as Lord Chancellor.
Context
The UN's special rapporteur for human rights recently expressed concern that several pieces of UK legislation could lead to increased human rights violations.
Robert Buckland
In everything we do, checks and balances are carried out to ensure human rights protection. The current Bill before Parliament exemplifies this, with police duties balancing freedom of expression against others' rights. The Lord Chancellor will continue to discharge his duties as he has for the past two years.
Session: Human Rights Act 1998 (Amendment)
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Will he implement Labour's proposals for tougher sentences for those who name and shame victims of sexual offences?
Context
A distressing case involving the online ridicule of a rape victim highlights the need for stronger legislation against such acts.
Robert Buckland
We are making preparations to see what can be done to improve and strengthen the law in this area. We will do whatever it takes to help stamp out the criminal act of naming victims.
Session: Sentencing Reform
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
G7 Summit
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Separation Centres Review 2026-02-03
03 February 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
The Government has responded to Jonathan Hall KC’s independent review of separation centres, which focuses on the protection of prison officers from violent extremism. The review highlights the need f...
Criminal Court Reform 2025-12-02
02 December 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice opened the debate by discussing the need for criminal court reform, highlighting a backlog of 78,000 cases. He mentioned the independent review c...
Prisoner Releases in Error 2025-11-11
11 November 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
The Lord Chancellor acknowledged the release of Brahim Kaddour-Cherif, Hadush Kebatu, and other prisoners in error. He emphasised the need for stronger checks, better data management, and a radical ov...
Prisoner Release Checks 2025-10-27
27 October 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
Statement on the release in error of Hadush Kebatu from HMP Chelmsford. Acknowledges swift police action to return him to custody, expresses outrage at the incident, and announces measures including a...
Victims and Courts Bill 2025-10-27
27 October 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves a new clause substituting section 17 of the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024, which allows victims of criminal conduct to make disclosures in connection with that conduct. The new section does not...
Sentencing Bill 2025-09-16
16 September 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
Welcomes the introduction of the Sentencing Bill, which addresses the mess left by previous governments. Emphasises the need for punishment that works to prevent crime and ensure public safety. Highli...
Middle East 2025-09-01
01 September 2025
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
China Audit 2025-06-24
24 June 2025
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Crime and Policing Bill 2025-06-18
18 June 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves that the clause be read a Second time. The new clauses aim to criminalise commercial sexual exploitation, including enabling or profiting from prostitution and paying for sex acts either directl...
Attendance
18.4%
18 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
8
8.2% of votes
No Votes
10
10.2% of votes
Abstentions
80
81.6% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
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
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
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 NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
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
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
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
0
PMQs Asked
58
Ministerial Questions Asked
103
House of Commons Debates Involved
0
Westminster Hall Debates Led
19
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
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+333% above average
This MP:
58
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2019% above average
This MP:
103
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+101% above average
This MP:
19
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-73% below average
This MP:
18.4
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 David Lammy's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.