David Linden
MP for Glasgow East
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
When the Prime Minister is not taking luxury helicopter rides and splashing about in his private pool, will the Deputy Prime Minister recommend that he befriends somebody from the working class?
Context
The Prime Minister has previously said on camera that he does not have any working-class friends.
Dominic Raab
I am not sure I got the full extent of the question. The reality, as the hon. Gentleman can see with the energy price guarantee, the free childcare and the national living wage, is that we are supporting everyone in this country, particularly those in the lowest paid jobs.
Assessment
Does not recommend befriending working-class individuals
Not Understood Question
Supporting Measures
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Will the Prime Minister bring forward a standalone Bill to legislate for neonatal leave and pay so that parents do not have to choose between spending time in hospital or unpaid leave from work?
Context
Every year, 100,000 babies are born premature or sick in the UK. There is cross-party agreement for neonatal leave and pay legislation.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Gentleman is a passionate campaigner in this area. One way or another—I will get back to him on the exact way—we will legislate to allow parents of children in neonatal care to take extended leave, giving them more time during the most vulnerable and stressful days of their lives.
Assessment
The PM did not commit to a standalone bill specifically.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I am concerned about the huge problems with the shortage of HGV drivers in this country, especially after Brexit. Why can we not add HGV drivers to the UK shortage occupation list?
Context
The hon. Member visited a haulage firm in Baillieston, Glasgow, which is facing significant challenges due to the HGV driver shortage exacerbated by Brexit.
Boris Johnson
I will certainly look at what the hon. Member is proposing, but I think the most important thing is to get our entire workforce back at work. There are currently millions of people still on furlough, and of course there are labour shortages at the moment, but we need to get people back into work.
Assessment
The questioner asked specifically about adding HGV drivers to the shortage occupation list. The PM did not address this point directly.
Under Review
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The Prime Minister will be aware of Pladis's proposal to close the McVitie's factory in Glasgow, putting 470 jobs at risk. Will he join me in engaging with Pladis's CEO to reconsider this plan?
Context
Pladis is proposing to close the McVitie's factory in Glasgow, placing 470 jobs at risk.
Boris Johnson
McVitie's has been a proud part of Scotland since 1800. Conversations are ongoing to see what can be done, and my Secretary of State for Scotland is meeting with you to discuss the situation.
Assessment
Did not commit to engaging directly with Pladis's CEO.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
While extending the £20 uplift is welcome, why was it not extended to those on legacy benefits such as disabled people?
Context
The MP welcomed the Prime Minister's decision to extend the £20 uplift to universal credit for six months.
Boris Johnson
Throughout the pandemic, we have done whatever we can to look after people on benefits and those who lost their jobs due to the pandemic.
Assessment
specific ask about legacy benefits extension
General Statement Of Looking After People
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Why does the Prime Minister think we have now seen 15 consecutive polls showing majority support for Scottish independence?
Context
Recent polling shows consistent majority support for Scottish independence, raising questions about the future of Scotland within the UK.
Boris Johnson
The people of Scotland, as the hon. Gentleman knows very well, voted in 2014, by a substantial majority, to remain in the UK. I believe that was the right decision, and I believe that were they ever to be asked the same question again in the future, it would be the same answer.
Assessment
no explanation for current poll trends
2014 Vote Reference
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The Prime Minister is aware of the tragic case of Mercy Baguma, who three weeks ago was found dead in her Glasgow flat with her starving one-year-old son, Adriel, lying next to her. Thankfully, little Adriel has made a recovery, and he was running around my constituency office on Friday when his father Eric came to meet me. Adriel has been through more than any one-year-old should ever have to go through, and his future hangs in limbo while the Home Office prolongs his father's asylum application. Will the Prime Minister agree to organise a meeting between me and the Home Secretary to look at Eric's case and make sure that the family can go forward with certainty after such a difficult time?
Context
Mercy Baguma was found dead in her Glasgow flat with her starving one-year-old son, Adriel. The family is currently awaiting the Home Office's decision on an asylum application.
Boris Johnson
I thank the hon. Gentleman, and I know that the whole House will join me in sending our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mercy Baguma. We take very seriously the wellbeing of all who are in the asylum system, and I can assure him that the relevant Minister will take up that particular case with him.
Assessment
specific actions requested
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Will the Prime Minister meet me to look more closely at religious freedom issues in India?
Context
Growing religious intolerance, especially against Muslims and Christians.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
I would be more than happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss protecting those of a Christian faith in India and around the world.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Is not the issue that the Government hopes this matter will be lost during an election campaign, ignoring it until more women die?
Context
The ombudsman laid the report before Parliament and nine WASPI women died during a recent Select Committee hearing.
Mel Stride
I do not accept that assessment. We are putting considerable time and effort into taking this matter extremely seriously.
Session: State Pension Age Changes Compensation
View All Questions -->
Does the Secretary of State have confidence in the ombudsman and accept its report?
Context
The ombudsman laid the report before Parliament as it could not trust the Government to deal with it.
Mel Stride
We are considering the report thoroughly and it will come back to the House without undue delay.
Session: State Pension Age Changes Compensation
View All Questions -->
Rather than address policy failures within the benefits system, the Government seems focused on penalties like the two-child cap. The Labour party recently prioritised lifting bankers' bonuses caps over working women's benefits caps. Does he take comfort that his cruel legacy will be protected by Labour?
Context
There is criticism that the government focuses on penalising people through measures like the two-child cap, despite known policy failures in the benefits system.
Mel Stride
I am not going to engage in crossfire between parties, other than to note—[Interruption.]
Session: Benefit Levels
View All Questions -->
Given that there is now a live ongoing investigation by the ICJ into genocide in Gaza, does the Minister understand that failure to recognise the Palestinian state will result in recognising a cemetery?
Context
The live ongoing investigation by the ICJ into genocide in Gaza, and British Government's reluctance to recognise the state of Palestine.
Andrew Mitchell
The Government's position—and indeed, I believe, the position of those on the Opposition Front Bench—has always been clear: we should recognise the state of Palestine when the time is right. The Foreign Secretary last night added some further words to that commitment, but that is the commitment of the British Government.
Session: Palestinian State Recognition
View All Questions -->
The actions that we take to lift children out of poverty say an awful lot about our values. In Scotland, we have lifted 90,000 children out of poverty, with measures such as the game-changing Scottish child payment. Here in London, we have a Westminster Government, supported by the Labour party, wedded to a two-child policy that pushes 250,000 children into poverty. What does the Minister think it says about Westminster's values on child poverty that they are wedded to a two-child policy with a rape clause?
Context
Scotland has lifted 90,000 children out of poverty through measures such as the Scottish child payment. In contrast, the Westminster Government's two-child policy is pushing 250,000 children into poverty.
Mims Davies
Adults in workless households are seven times more likely to be in poverty than those in working households. That is why our focus is on work. The Scotland Act 2016 gave the Scottish Parliament the powers that have been invoked, including on the child payment, and that is very pleasing for us. The Act transferred those powers for carers and disability benefits, worth £3.3 billion. The hon. Gentleman and his Government can make the decisions that suit their communities. That is the right approach.
Session: Child Poverty
View All Questions -->
Given the former Health Secretary's statement about statutory sick pay being 'far too low' and needing fixing, with the current Minister having the authority to act, when will statutory sick pay be improved?
Context
The former Health Secretary stated that statutory sick pay was too low and needs fixing; the MP asks for a timeline on reform.
Mel Stride (Minister for Pensions)
No immediate policy changes proposed; discussions across Government required.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Minister talks about the need for a two-state solution, and we will not find much disagreement on that, but how can he advocate a two-state solution when the Government refuse to recognise the state of Palestine? Is he confident that there will be much left of Palestine after Israel's continued bombardment?
Context
The Minister advocates for a two-state solution but the Government does not recognise Palestine.
Andrew Mitchell
The Government strongly support the two-state solution. Of course, before these terrible events on 7 October, there were new partnerships with Israel developing across the middle east: one thinks in particular of the Emirates and Bahrain.
Session: Israel and Palestine
View All Questions -->
Does the Deputy Prime Minister think it is acceptable that Baroness Michelle Mone has more ability to scrutinise the Foreign Secretary than Members of this House?
Context
Concern that Baroness Michelle Mone has more ability to scrutinise the Foreign Secretary than Members of this House.
Oliver Dowden
I refer the hon. Gentleman to my previous answer about the well-established principle that Ministers can serve from the other place, which I believe last happened when Lord Mandelson was in the Labour Cabinet. However, the Government and my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary recognise this House's desire to scrutinise him and he has committed to further measures to ensure that happens.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Minister says that there is “a network of ethics systems” for the appointment of Ministers, so let me ask a simple question: when was the last time Lord Cameron was not domiciled in the UK?
Context
There is concern over Lord Cameron's domicile and whether it complies with the ethics systems.
Oliver Dowden
That is a question for Lord Cameron, but I would be amazed if he had not been domiciled in this country for his entire life.
Session: Ministers Declarations of Interest
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the adequacy of the list of Ministers' interests in ensuring that Ministers (a) declare and (b) avoid any conflict of interest?
Context
There is concern over the adequacy of the list of Ministers' interests in ensuring proper declaration and avoidance of conflicts.
Oliver Dowden
There is an established regime under which Ministers' interests are declared and managed. Ministers seek the advice of their permanent secretaries and the independent adviser on Ministers' interests, who reports twice yearly. This is but one element of a network of ethics systems, including the ministerial code and the business appointment rules, which uphold the highest standards in Government.
Session: Ministers Declarations of Interest
View All Questions -->
After the Supreme Court ruling on Rwanda, the hon. Member for Ashfield (Lee Anderson) said that the Government should “ignore the laws” and put planes in the air anyway. The Prime Minister has failed to distance himself from those comments. Does that disappoint the Justice Secretary?
Context
The hon. Member for Ashfield suggested ignoring the laws to put planes in the air, and the Prime Minister has not distanced himself from these comments.
Alex Chalk
I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave a few moments ago. There is understandable righteous indignation about the situation that exists. We believe that we can comply and deliver our policies within the four corners of international law—that is our approach. However, those who arrive illegally threaten to corrode the rule of law, because that of itself sends out a poor subliminal message that those who do so can act with impunity.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Law Society has warned that a proposed 15% increase in legal aid rates will not be enough to ensure sufficient immigration lawyers are available. Charities supporting refugees make 16 attempts on average before securing a lawyer, while in London charities only find representation for 4.1% of referrals. What steps is the Minister taking to prevent collapse in the legal aid sector?
Context
The Law Society has warned about the consequences of a proposed 15% increase in legal aid rates.
Mike Freer
The 15% was agreed after a six-week consultation looking at other increases for other specialist work. The Legal Aid Agency will always keep provision under review to ensure that cover is provided for those who need it.
Session: Legal Aid Immigration Cases
View All Questions -->
The Westminster-made cost of living crisis is having a devastating impact on household incomes, particularly in Broomhouse, where many young homeowners are seeing mortgage prices soaring. Will the Chancellor use the autumn statement to introduce mortgage interest tax relief to help people across Glasgow to deal with the cost of living crisis?
Context
The cost of living crisis is affecting household incomes, particularly for young homeowners.
Jeremy Hunt
The Government has taken steps to address cost-of-living pressures, but the Chancellor did not commit to introducing mortgage interest tax relief.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The cost of living crisis is plunging many families into destitution. We know from the JRF that 1.8 million households and 1 million children were plunged into destitution last year. Will Secretary of State use the upcoming autumn statement to bring forward the mortgage interest tax relief and action to tackle soaring food prices, and to reintroduce that £400 energy bill rebate? Otherwise, more and more children will fall into destitution.
Context
The cost of living crisis is causing widespread financial hardship, with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) reporting that 1.8 million households and 1 million children were plunged into destitution last year.
Mel Stride
The hon. Gentleman raises mortgage payments in particular; we have extended the scope of the support for mortgage interest arrangements, particularly for those who have not long been on universal credit. I cannot comment on what may or may not be in the autumn statement, but I can assure him that the kind of issues he has raised are always at the centre of our thinking.
Session: Destitution Children
View All Questions -->
What steps is the Minister taking to help ensure that parents pay child maintenance and that the system is fair, particularly if there has been a difficult divorce or separation?
Context
The question is prompted by concerns about the enforcement of child maintenance payments.
Mims Davies
The Government are committed to ensuring that parents meet their obligations to their children and that the CMS has robust enforcement powers where parents refuse to pay child maintenance that they owe. The Child Support (Enforcement) Act 2023 received Royal Assent in July, and will substantially and rightly speed up that process.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
On Saturday I stood with thousands of Glaswegians whose overwhelming message was clear that we need a ceasefire now. The only way we can begin to de-escalate this conflict—a conflict that has led to a humanitarian catastrophe—on both sides is by ending the bombardment of Gaza, ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid and creating a space for engaging in diplomacy and dialogue. In the light of all that, why do the British Government not call for an immediate ceasefire now?
Context
The speaker advocates for an immediate ceasefire to de-escalate the conflict and address humanitarian issues.
James Cleverly
As we have seen over and over again this morning, calling for a ceasefire is the easy bit; actually negotiating something meaningful is considerably harder. As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has said repeatedly from the Dispatch Box, we are working with all parties. The hon. Member for Glasgow East (David Linden) has made reference to Israel's actions, but I remind the House that a ceasefire without Hamas stopping its bombardment of Israel is not a meaningful ceasefire.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Will the Government bring forward that mortgage interest relief scheme for my constituents, and perhaps even for those in East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow?
Context
The question addresses the impact of economic actions by the Conservative Government on mortgage holders in Scotland and seeks a commitment to introduce a mortgage interest relief scheme.
James Davies
The Government have provided “support for mortgage interest” loans for those receiving income-related benefits, and the pre-action protocol helps to make repossessions less likely. That is in addition to the action that I have already outlined.
Session: Mortgage Interest Rate Increases
View All Questions -->
What discussions has he had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer regarding the impact of increasing mortgage interest rates on homeowners in Wales?
Context
The question addresses concerns about rising mortgage interest rates affecting homeowners in Wales, particularly those nearing the end of fixed-rate deals.
James Davies
The Government recognise that this is a concerning time for mortgage holders, especially those who are due to come to the end of a fixed deal in the immediate future. We are supporting borrowers who are struggling with their mortgage payments through the new mortgage charter which sets out the standards signatory lenders will adopt, including new flexibilities to help customers manage their mortgage payments over a short period.
Session: Mortgage Interest Rate Increases
View All Questions -->
I am disappointed that the Minister cannot provide this number, as his Department has made 2,590 women prove they were raped in order to get an exemption. Will he feel comfort knowing that if George Osborne's legacy continues under Labour's Blairite leadership, astronomical child poverty rates will persist?
Context
The MP expresses disappointment that the government does not know how many women have been asked to prove rape for exemptions. He mentions Labour party support for similar policies and criticizes future Conservative governments for maintaining high child poverty rates.
Guy Opperman
Compared to 2009-10, there are 400,000 fewer children in absolute poverty after housing costs.
Session: Two-child Limit Child Poverty
View All Questions -->
The Minister seems unaware that the two-child limit affects those on in-work benefits. Only if a woman can prove her third or subsequent child is due to rape does she qualify for an exemption. How many women has his Department asked to provide proof of rape to get this exemption?
Context
The MP questions the number of people who have had to prove they were raped in order to receive an exemption from the two-child limit.
Guy Opperman
We do not use such language but will write to him.
Session: Two-child Limit Child Poverty
View All Questions -->
One way of reducing reoffending is to ensure that returning citizens can get into employment when they leave prison. Given that a number of former prisoners experience employment discrimination, is it not time to ban the box?
Context
Employment discrimination affects returning citizens after prison, hindering their integration into society.
Alex Chalk
We have already taken important steps to recalibrate disclosures so that they have to take place only when absolutely necessary, but a prisoner who gets into employment is 10% less likely to commit an offence. The proportion of offenders in employment six months after release has doubled in the past year.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Last week, I was in Aberdeen to attend the annual conference of the Scottish Pensioners' Forum and outline why we think an independent Scotland would be the best place to grow old. In contrast, at the weekend, the former Tory leader William Hague wrote in the papers that his party should abandon the triple lock. Is that why pensioners are now supporting independence more than ever?
Context
Former Tory leader William Hague suggested abandoning the triple lock.
Laura Trott
I do not think they are. Also, the triple lock is very proudly a Conservative policy.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Has the Secretary of State made any assessment as to how many staff in his Department will struggle to make ends meet when their mortgages skyrocket under this Conservative Government?
Context
The MP is concerned about people working hard but feeling poorer due to rising mortgage costs.
Mel Stride
The Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, my hon. Friend the Member for Mid Sussex (Mims Davies) has already addressed the approach that we would recommend to those struggling with mortgages and the approach that the Government are taking to that. There are also the £150 payments to those who are disabled and £300 payable to pensioners along with their winter fuel payments. Those, along with increasing the national living wage and the energy price guarantee, are real things that the Government are doing to help those who are feeling the most financial pressure.
Session: In-work Poverty
View All Questions -->
Glasgow has a strong link with Malawi, which is one of the countries that really feels the impact of climate change. Will the Minister go further by using the UK's seat on the UN committee to mobilise this funding and ensure commitments made at COP27 come good for countries like Malawi?
Context
Glasgow has a strong link with Malawi, which is one of the countries feeling the impact of climate change. The question seeks to know if the UK will use its seat on the UN committee to mobilise funding for loss and damage as committed at COP27.
Graham Stuart
Those on the frontline suffering from climate change often have done least to contribute to it. It is important that we fulfil pledges made, including Paris and the breakthrough agreement on loss and damage agreed at Sharm last year.
Session: Polluter Pays Policy
View All Questions -->
What steps his Department is taking to ensure that its policies align with the polluter pays principle agreed at COP27?
Context
The question relates to the UK's commitment under the polluter pays principle agreed at COP27 to establish funding arrangements for loss and damage.
Graham Stuart
The main step being taken is the doubling of climate finance to £11.6 billion between 2021-22 and 2025-26.
Session: Polluter Pays Policy
View All Questions -->
If levelling up is to mean anything, can he say when High Speed 2 will reach Glasgow?
Context
The MP questions the commitment to levelling up in relation to high-speed rail infrastructure.
John Lamont
The Government remain committed to the levelling-up agenda across the UK. He is willing to contact the Department for Transport to get an answer on this matter.
Session: Scotland-England Transport Connectivity
View All Questions -->
What steps has the Department taken to simplify the application process for personal independence payments? My constituent Gary Thacker diagnosed with autism later in life found it difficult to complete his PIP form despite having help. Despite formal methods of assistance, he was unaware of these supports. How is the Minister's Department ensuring applicants are aware of available support?
Context
The health transformation programme is modernising the PIP service, including application process. Despite formal methods of support, a constituent found it difficult to complete his form due to unawareness.
Tom Pursglove
The Department offers support according to ability and need, including referral to visiting officers and forms completion service for vulnerable claimants in exceptional cases. The personal independence payment journey is being digitalised to provide greater signposting within processes and towards other supports eligible for people.
Session: Personal Independence Payments Application Process
View All Questions -->
When he appeared before the Select Committee, the Secretary of State said that more transparency is better. In light of that, can the Minister provide figures on how many DWP staff are reliant on universal credit?
Context
The Member referenced a previous statement from the Secretary of State about transparency and accountability.
Mims Davies
I know the hon. Gentleman takes a particular interest in transparency. I work strongly with the Minister in the Lords and will write to the hon. Gentleman with a response.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Small businesses such as coffee shops and cafés in our high streets are the lifeblood of a local economy—one example would be Jeanie's Coffee Shop in Baillieston. Running a kitchen all day is an incredibly intensive process for energy, and John Devaney was telling me last week how that business's energy bills have gone up. As the Minister is being so generous with other meetings, would she be willing to meet me to look at how we can support businesses such as Jeanie's in Baillieston to ensure that they get through the cost of living crisis?
Context
The MP highlights the challenge faced by small businesses, such as Jeanie's Coffee Shop in Baillieston, due to increased energy costs.
Nusrat Ghani
I will be full of meetings, but I defer to the Minister with responsibility for small businesses, who is more than happy to have that meeting. We have provided billions of pounds of support for businesses to deal with their energy costs, and we have the new supercharger in place.
Session: Energy-intensive Industries
View All Questions -->
Can the Secretary of State come to the Dispatch Box and outline how plunging people into poverty helps deal with economic inactivity?
Context
The question highlights the increase in sanctions post-pandemic and their impact on pushing people into destitution.
Mel Stride (Financial Secretary to the Treasury)
I am surprised, in a way, that the hon. Gentleman raises the issue of poverty, because what we have seen, certainly since 2010 and under this Government, has been absolute levels of poverty declining and fewer children growing up in workless homes, for example, in distinct contrast to Governments prior to my party coming into office.
Session: Economic Inactivity Working-age People
View All Questions -->
I warmly welcome the Government's decision to increase the state pension by more than 10% in April. Does my right hon Friend agree that we should encourage private provision alongside state provision? What conversations have his Department had with the Treasury about extending the lifetime allowance or annual allowance for pensions, and anything further on auto-enrolment?
Context
The government has increased the state pension by more than 10% in April.
Laura Trott
The Bill introduced by my hon Friend passed Second Reading on Friday. It will bring 18 to 22-year-olds into automatic enrolment for the first time, ensuring people are saving from their first pound earned.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister outline what has gone wrong with the UK welfare state when we have got to a stage where baby formula has to be put away because of fears of theft?
Context
The question addresses issues with UK welfare, referencing an incident where baby formula was put behind the tills in Co-ops due to fears of theft.
John Lamont
The Chancellor outlined steps to help vulnerable households in Scotland and across the UK. Payments are being made to support households this winter. The Government continue to explore new ways of tackling poverty and protecting the most vulnerable.
Session: Cost of Living
View All Questions -->
The UK has the sixth largest and richest economy in the world, yet data from the Food Foundation shows that in September 2022, 9.7 million people on these islands lived in food insecurity. That kind of malnutrition does not have a good impact on the health service. When will Ministers pick up the phone or nip along the corridor to the Department for Work and Pensions and tell it to drop its punitive sanctions regime, which pushes so many people into poverty and so many problems onto the NHS?
Context
Data from the Food Foundation shows that 9.7 million people in the UK lived in food insecurity in September 2022.
Neil O'Brien
We are concerned about the exact same issues. The £900 cost of living payment for 8 million households is how we are trying to address this. It is also why we are bringing in the largest ever increase in the national living wage for 2 million workers.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
In the Baillieston area, many people face difficulty accessing GPs due to a shortage. The Royal College of General Practitioners shows 49% of EU-trained medics experienced issues with visas leading some to consider leaving the UK. When will the Minister address this issue and remove barriers?
Context
The MP highlights difficulties accessing GPs and cites a Royal College report showing EU-trained medics facing visa issues.
Helen Whately
More than 2,000 more GPs are now working in England. However, I refer to NHS Scotland's record under SNP-led government and their issue of 'haemorrhaging' staff.
Session: Impact of Brexit Recruitment
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has been made of the UK's departure from the EU's potential impact on recruitment in the health and social care sector?
Context
The MP asks about the potential impact of Brexit on recruiting health and social care staff.
Helen Whately
We have record numbers of staff in the NHS in England, hitting a target of 50,000 more nurses since 2019 and over 50,000 more people working in social care since 2016. The health and social care sector welcomes workers from all around the world.
Session: Impact of Brexit Recruitment
View All Questions -->
The Minister seemed to be appalled by the reference of my hon. Friend the Member for Glasgow North (Patrick Grady) to the rape clause, so let us use its Sunday name: the non-consensual sex exemption, as the Government like to call it. Is she genuinely comfortable with a Government who ask survivors of rape to prove that their child has been born as a result of sexual assault? The reality is that, with the limited devolution powers we have for social security, we have the game-changing Scottish child payment, while this Government ask women to prove that their children have been born as a result of rape just to get state support. Given that the Labour party has departed from many of its policies and is a pale imitation of the Tories, is it not the case that the only way to ensure that we have a decent social security system is with independence?
Context
The question discusses the government's requirement for survivors of rape to prove their child was born as a result of sexual assault.
Mims Davies
We should be very careful with our language in this regard. It is absolutely right that people in every single circumstance can come forward positively, but labelling the provision in that way in the Chamber is not helpful—[Interruption.] It is not about whether it is our policy; that terminology is unhelpful. Universal credit is always tailored to individual circumstances. If anybody would like to come forward with anything that has happened to them, jobcentres are a safe place in which to declare domestic abuse or ask for support. I say to those people: please do step forward, as we have the J9 initiative and other ways to support people.
Session: Social Security Payments Cost of Living
View All Questions -->
Would the Minister be willing to meet me, along with representatives of the Dogs Trust, to discuss this further and see what support we can provide for pet owners?
Context
Staff from Dogs Trust have reported significant concerns about the impact of the cost of living crisis on pet owners, noting that many are going without meals to feed their pets.
Mark Spencer
I pay tribute to the hon. Gentleman for highlighting that important case. The Government recognise the challenge people are facing with their household bills, which is why the Chancellor of the Exchequer has introduced a huge package providing billions of pounds of support for household incomes. I also pay tribute to Dogs Trust, which is dealing with its own challenges when pets are presented at its centres when families cannot continue to feed them. I will pass the hon. Gentleman's comments to the Treasury and will encourage Treasury Ministers to meet him, but if he has no success in that regard, I shall be happy to continue to work with him to secure the meetings that he requires.
Session: VAT Pet Food
View All Questions -->
What discussions she has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on temporarily reducing VAT on pet food in the context of increases in the cost of living.
Context
The cost of living crisis has affected various aspects, including the affordability of pet food.
Mark Spencer
As the hon. Gentleman will know, the Treasury leads on VAT policy, and that includes VAT policy on pet food. The Government are actively considering the impact of the increased cost of living on all aspects of people's lives.
Session: VAT Pet Food
View All Questions -->
Can he be honest at the Dispatch Box about whether Scotland is being short-changed as a result of leaving the EU?
Context
The MP is questioning the government's claim that Scotland is not being short-changed due to Brexit, highlighting a decrease in regional development funding.
John Lamont
The Government is making decisions based on real devolution and supporting local councils across Scotland by investing in local communities, while the Scottish Government increasingly take more powers away from local councils.
Session: Community Assets
View All Questions -->
Oh—is it still Monday? Six of the last seven polls in Scotland have shown majority support for Scottish independence. What does the Minister think is driving up that support? Is it the ignoring of the majority of pro-independence MSPs? Is it the assault on workers through the anti-trade union legislation coming forward? Or it just 12 long, brutal years of Tory rule, for which Scotland has not voted since the 1950s?
Context
A recent poll in Scotland indicated majority support for independence, with concerns over anti-trade union legislation.
Felicity Buchan
We respect the priorities of the Scottish people, who are focused on improving the NHS, on education, on tackling inflation and on getting a ferry that actually works and takes them to the islands. We will work in co-operation with the Scottish Government. We respect devolution and we want to work with them to implement the people's priorities.
Session: Strength of the Union
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Cost of Living in Scotland
09 January 2024
Responding: John Lamont
Main Concerns
['The cost of living crisis has led to emergency food parcels, poor mental and physical health, parents cutting back on meals, households reducing heating use, and reliance on pay-day lenders. The social security system no longer prevents hunger and destitution, impacting social tenants, those in and out of work, parents, carers, students, disabled people, and over-50s. Almost one-third of Scottish adults feel anxious about their financial situation, with nearly half experiencing fuel poverty.']
Specific Asks
['The British Government should take drastic action to reform the social security system by ending the five-week wait for universal credit, scrapping the two-child cap, and lifting the benefit cap. The energy bill guarantee scheme should be reintroduced and mortgage interest tax relief introduced.']
Fairs and Showgrounds
17 December 2020
Main Concerns
["The community provides a significant contribution to the local economy in Glasgow East with seasonal fairs from summer fetes to Christmas markets. However, showpeople have been excluded from Government financial support packages during the pandemic due to their mobile nature and lack of static business premises. The inconsistency across local authorities regarding fair regulations has led to uncertainty for guild members. In addition to the current challenges posed by the pandemic, there is concern over the impending changes in tax relief on red diesel, which is critical for many showpeople's businesses."]
Specific Asks
['The UK Government should provide a financial support package similar to that of Scotland and ensure 100% relief on licences for showpeople. There needs to be clear guidance from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on consistent regulations for fairs across different tiers. The Minister should also consider the concerns regarding the change in tax relief on red diesel.']
Global Malnutrition: FCDO Role
08 December 2020
Responding: Wendy Morton
Main Concerns
["The UK faces an urgent need to address rising malnutrition cases due to the pandemic, with up to 10,000 additional child deaths per month predicted. Stunting rates are set to rise dramatically unless immediate action is taken. Malnutrition impacts education and economic potential, costing countries up to 11% of GDP annually. The issue intersects with climate change, conflict zones, and girls' education."]
Specific Asks
['The Minister should re-commit to reaching 50 million women, adolescent girls, and children with high-impact nutrition interventions over the next four years; implement a policy marker for nutrition across FCDO work; ensure £680 million of spend includes nutrition outcomes; and pledge at least £120 million annually from 2021 to 2025.']
Integrated Activity Fund: Transparency
22 October 2020
Responding: James Cleverly
Main Concerns
["The Integrated Activity Fund is a fund of up to £20 million each year, but the Government has failed to provide a breakdown of spending in each country. The lack of transparency is concerning given that the region includes countries accused of human rights abuses such as Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Human rights groups have raised concerns about the legitimacy of this fund. Inquiries into projects supported by the IAF are met with vague answers, indicating a need for clearer communication from the Government. The Member is concerned about the lack of transparency regarding the Integrated Activity Fund, which has been spending around £20 million a year for five years. He questions why the Government funds activities in countries like Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia, where human rights conditions are deteriorating. The Member points out that about one-third of projects could be described as 'justice projects,' including security and imprisonment issues, but there is inadequate information on how much each UK Department spends or on which projects. He highlights worsening human rights records in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, with the latter executing 184 people through horrific methods."]
Specific Asks
["I ask the Government to publish the results of any risk assessments undertaken regarding human rights abuses and to disclose beneficiaries or implementers of the Integrated Activity Fund, as well as specific details on projects funded by it. The Government should be transparent about how their money is being spent across the region. The Member requests a review of whether this fund is an appropriate use of taxpayers' money due to its secretive nature and lack of impact on improving human rights conditions in recipient countries."]
The Economy
22 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Employment (Allocation of Tips)
14 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The draft Code of Practice aims to provide clarity on the allocation and distribution of tips, gratuities, and service charges. It mandates that all qualifying tips must be passed on to workers, ensur...
Defence Spending
24 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Gaza
27 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Ceasefire in Gaza
21 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Pensions
31 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Proposes the draft Guaranteed Minimum Pensions Increase Order 2024 to provide a yearly increase of 3% for the financial year 2024-25 for guaranteed minimum pensions earned between April 1988 and April...
Social Security
31 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the draft order to increase relevant state pension rates by 8.5% and most other benefit rates by 6.7%, with changes taking effect from April 2024 for the tax year 2024-25.
Occupied Palestinian Territories: Humanitarian Situation
08 November 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Devolution (Employment) (Scotland)
17 October 2023
General Debate
Led by this MP
The motion seeks to amend the Scotland Act 1998 to grant legislative competence for employment matters to the Scottish Parliament. David Linden criticises the lack of progress on workers' rights and m...
Net Zero by 2050
16 October 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
McVitie’s Tollcross factory proposed closure
15 June 2021
The petition addresses the proposed closure of Pladis’s McVitie’s factory in Tollcross, Glasgow, which would result in the loss of 468 jobs and have a devastating impact on the local economy.
View Full Petition -->
Voter ID
26 May 2021
The petition addresses concerns about the British Government’s proposed legislation for voter ID, arguing that it is unnecessary given the rarity of voter fraud and could disproportionately suppress v...
View Full Petition -->
Occupation of East Jerusalem
19 May 2021
The petition addresses the forced evictions of Palestinian residents in Sheikh Jarrah, East Jerusalem, due to Israel’s illegal occupation, which has led to discriminatory laws and threats against Pale...
View Full Petition -->
British Telecom Group staff redundancies
20 April 2021
The petition addresses concerns about BT’s plans to make thousands of employees redundant during the pandemic, affecting hardworking staff members who have maintained essential services.
View Full Petition -->
Return to work after the pandemic
14 April 2021
The petition addresses concerns raised by disabled workers who feel compelled to return to work from furlough during the pandemic, despite feeling unsafe or uncomfortable doing so due to health risks.
View Full Petition -->
Reduction in VAT for home energy bills
19 January 2021
The petition addresses the issue of increased energy costs for residents in Glasgow East who are following stay-at-home guidance during the pandemic, particularly noting that many are experiencing fue...
View Full Petition -->
8
PMQs Asked
106
Ministerial Questions Asked
155
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
2
Statements / Bills
6
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+691% above average
This MP:
106
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3089% above average
This MP:
155
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-79% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+145% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks David Linden's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.