Deidre Brock
MP for Edinburgh North and Leith
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Greenpeace Unearthed found 36 supposed grassroots campaign groups that were actually administered by Conservative staff and activists and which were forums for vile racism, antisemitism and Islamophobic attacks on Sadiq Khan. While the Prime Minister is above such co-ordinated efforts against 20 mph zones in Wales, will he shed some light on these shady groups spreading abuse, including on their funding and their links to his party, and whether he is aware of similar operations existing elsewhere in the UK? If he will not, will he at least commit today to investigating and taking action to tackle the sources of this grubby gutter politics?
Context
Greenpeace Unearthed reported 36 Conservative-administered campaign groups using vile racism, antisemitism and Islamophobic attacks against Sadiq Khan. Funding and links to the party are questioned.
Rishi Sunak
I am not aware of the topic that the hon. Lady raises, but I am not going to make any apology for Conservatives pointing out the record of the SNP in Scotland or the Labour Government in Wales, because that is exactly what the democratic process is about. She might not like it when we highlight their record, but we will keep doing that so that we can deliver for people across the United Kingdom.
Assessment
Did not address specific ask to investigate and take action against groups spreading abuse.
She Might Not Like It When We Highlight Their Record, But We Will Keep Doing That
Session: PMQs
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NHS England has awarded £330 million to Palantir, a controversial technology firm, to help it recover from its pandemic backlog despite deep concerns among many healthcare professionals about privacy, ethics, and the safety of patient data. In light of the Government's recently commissioned report on unifying health data in the UK, can the Prime Minister confirm that no attempts will be made to force the Scottish Government to release the personal data of Scottish residents to any centralised system?
Context
NHS England has awarded £330 million to Palantir, a controversial technology firm, to help it recover from its pandemic backlog despite concerns about privacy, ethics, and the safety of patient data.
Rishi Sunak
As the hon. Lady knows, healthcare is devolved, but we will look for every opportunity to improve patient care and reduce waiting lists in England. That is what we are doing in developing new technology that has a proven track record of bringing down waiting lists and improving the optimisation and efficiency of how theatres are scheduled.
Assessment
Specific guarantee against forcing Scotland to share health data was not given
Changing Subject To Opportunities For Patient Care In England
Session: PMQs
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While the final report of the infected blood inquiry has been postponed until March, Sir Brian Langstaff, the independent chair, has already published his recommendations on compensation for victims of that scandal. Will the Prime Minister explain why his Government insist on postponing their response until after publication of the final report, kicking it into the long grass and delaying justice, once again, for my constituents Justine, Rachel and Paul, whose fathers died as a result of that scandal, as well as thousands of others across these isles?
Context
The infected blood inquiry's final report has been postponed until March, and interim compensation recommendations have been made.
Rishi Sunak
As I have said previously from the Dispatch Box, what happened was an appalling tragedy, and my heart goes out to all of those affected and their families. I have given extensive evidence to the inquiry, so my position on this matter is on the record. What I would say is that extensive work has been going on in Government for a long time, co-ordinated by the Minister for the Cabinet Office, as well as interim payments of £100,000 being made to those who were affected.
Assessment
The specific ask about postponing the response was not directly addressed with a timeline or explanation.
Session: PMQs
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The UK Government and His Majesty's Loyal Opposition refuse to face up to the bleak reality that Brexit is causing weaker growth and soaring inflation, according to the former Governor of the Bank of England. The LSE says that EU trade barriers have added, on average, £250 to household food bills, and Scots fishing chiefs are saying that they were sold down the river and scoff at the talk of treaty renegotiation as just spin. With such colossal failures stacking up and the former PM, who played a leading role in the leave campaign, finally exposed as a serial liar, will the current PM apologise to my constituents in Edinburgh North and Leith?
Context
The UK Government and the Opposition are accused of not facing up to Brexit causing weaker growth and soaring inflation. The LSE says EU trade barriers have added £250 to household food bills, and fishing industry leaders claim they were sold down the river.
Rishi Sunak
I just point out to the hon. Lady, as she is going on about the EU and us leaving it, that we have actually grown faster than France and Italy since we left the single market, our exports have grown by 25% just since covid and, as we heard from my right hon. Friend the Member for North Somerset (Dr Fox) earlier, every single international organisation has upgraded its forecast for UK economic growth. That is because we have the right priorities to drive growth, create jobs and spread opportunity in every part of our United Kingdom.
Assessment
Apology for Brexit failures
Highlights Positive Economic Data Without Addressing Negative Impacts
Session: PMQs
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Ineos has announced a major investment to cut emissions. Can the Government explain their stance on Scottish requirements for real living wages and net zero obligations in green ports?
Context
Ineos invested £1 billion into cutting greenhouse gas emissions at its Grangemouth plant.
Dominic Raab
Net zero is at heart of our policies. National Living Wage saves full-time workers £400 annually.
Assessment
Did not address specific requirements for living wages and net zero in green ports
National Living Wage Benefits
Session: PMQs
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What steps will the Government take to ensure robust regulation of the special impartiality rules that apply during the election period?
Context
The special impartiality rules apply during the election period to ensure accurate representation of public policy and multi-party democracy.
Lucy Frazer
The hon. Member will know that all broadcasters are regulated by Ofcom.
Session: Topical Questions
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Ministers certainly seem to prefer the comfort of their own massaged figures to facts. The Trussell Trust, however, says it has seen a 36% rise in pensioners turning to food banks in the past six months, and that is likely to increase. The hard fact is that the UK devotes a smaller percentage of GDP to state pensions and pensioner benefits than most other advanced economies. When will they take pensioner poverty seriously and fix this scandal?
Context
Concerns about pensioners turning to food banks due to financial difficulties are raised. The UK devotes a smaller percentage of GDP to state pensions compared to other advanced economies.
Paul Maynard
The households below average income statistics, which are cleared by the Office for National Statistics, show that 1% of low-income pensioners live in a household that has accessed a food bank within 12 months. Given all the effort we are putting into the ongoing campaign to increase access to pension credit and the success that campaign is having, I am very confident that we will make continued progress in reducing pensioner poverty.
Session: Pensioners Cost of Living
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What recent assessment has been made of the adequacy of support for pensioners with increases in the cost of living?
Context
The question arises from concerns over the adequacy of support provided to pensioners facing increased costs.
Paul Maynard
The Government have provided total support of over £108 billion to help households and individuals with higher bills. The basic state pension has gone up by 8.5% this year.
Session: Pensioners Cost of Living
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Has he concerns if there was a radioactive leak beyond safe levels, as reported? What reports will his Government produce to reassure those living near Trident bases?
Context
The MP highlights a significant rise in serious safety incidents at Scotland's Trident nuclear sites and asks about reports to reassure the public.
Alister Jack
We do not comment on matters relating to Faslane. For specific questions, she should ask at Defence questions. Regarding our nuclear deterrent and facility, we do not comment on internal matters.
Session: Defence Spending
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Was public money used for insights prepared by Hanbury Strategy for a Cabinet paper, and when will the public see it?
Context
A media report suggested that an employee of Hanbury Strategy provided data for a paper on the Union presented to UK Government officials in July 2020.
Michael Gove
Once again, I have to admire the sheer chutzpah of Scottish National party Members talking about the misappropriation of cash. However, as I mentioned earlier, the Scottish Government's budget has led to the closure of 25 tourist information centres and a variety of other ventures that are trying to get investment into Scotland, whereas the UK Government are providing investment in Scotland—proving once again that we are better together.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Tories have failed to invest in high-growth industries and public services, dragging Scotland into recession. The UK Government continues to cut public funding despite previous denials of real terms reduction.
Context
The UK Government is accused of imposing hard cuts to public services, leading to real-terms reductions in the Scottish block grant since 2020.
Laura Trott
The Scottish Government's total departmental expenditure limit is growing in real terms over this Parliament by over 1% a year on average.
Session: Block Grant Funding
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Given that the number of potential UK victims of modern slavery has reached record levels and the wait times for decisions have significantly increased, when will the Government accept this as a crisis and take urgent action?
Context
The number of potential UK victims of modern slavery has reached a record level, with referrals for women and children at all-time highs. The average wait time for decisions in modern slavery cases increased from six days in 2022 to 23 days in 2023.
Robert Courts
The Government acknowledges the seriousness of the crime and provides early advice to law enforcement through CPS, ensuring specialist prosecutors provide appropriate advice and charges against perpetrators.
Session: People Trafficking
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What steps is the Crown Prosecution Service taking to prosecute people for the trafficking of vulnerable adults and children into the UK?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the increasing number of potential UK victims of modern slavery, particularly women and children.
Robert Courts
The CPS has specially trained prosecutors who work closely with law enforcement agencies to bring to justice those who commit the heinous crimes of trafficking people for organ harvesting, presenting complex and difficult challenges. These teams have recently obtained convictions.
Session: People Trafficking
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Joseph Rowntree Foundation highlights Scotland's lower child poverty rate attributed to its child payment scheme. The UK's inadequate social security system constrains further progress. Trussell Trust reports 90% of low-income households on universal credit cannot afford essentials. Does the Minister accept raising the universal credit basic rate is critical?
Context
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation report highlighted Scotland's lower child poverty rate compared to England and Wales, attributing it partly to the Scottish Government's child payment. Further progress is constrained by the UK's inadequate social security system.
Jo Churchill
The welfare system is a strong safety net, not just about singular issues. It provides wraparound care and deals with people on an individual basis. Free school meals are provided where children need support.
Session: Child Poverty
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What recent estimate has been made of the number of children in poverty? The Joseph Rowntree Foundation found 42% of children in Bolton live below the poverty line. With Tory cuts and incompetence, Britain now has one of the highest child poverty rates among major countries. What would the Minister say to a family who says 'One day we eat and one day we don't'?
Context
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation report highlighted a significant reduction in child poverty after housing costs, but concerns remain about the adequacy of social security.
Jo Churchill
Children living in workless households are about five times more likely to be in absolute poverty after housing costs than those where all adults work. The Government supports families through childcare support, cost of living offers, and the increase in the national living wage.
Session: Child Poverty
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Despite devolution rendering it pointless, the budget of the Scotland Office, along with that of the Attorney General, has jumped by over £3 million since 2018-19—it leapt up by £1.2 million just last year—while the Scottish Government's budget allocation suffered a real-terms cut. Around 80 people currently work for the Scotland Office in Queen Elizabeth House alone, along with around 30 civil servants from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. What on earth are they doing, and how does the Minister justify that to the Scottish taxpayer?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the budget increase of the Scotland Office despite devolution, while the Scottish Government's budget has faced real-terms cuts. The questioner seeks clarity on how these resources are being used.
John Lamont
The team at the Scotland Office, both in Dover House and in Queen Elizabeth House in Edinburgh, are doing a tremendous job supporting Scotland across the United Kingdom and around the world. I would be very happy to welcome the hon. Lady to meet some of them with me, so that she can understand more clearly the important work that they do on our behalf across the UK.
Session: Scottish Economy Autumn Statement 2023
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What discussions is the Secretary of State having with the Treasury and other colleagues to address concerns that Malta, Mauritius, and Ireland offer higher rebates for commercials compared to the UK?
Context
The MP meets film, television and advertising companies concerned about UK falling behind countries offering higher rebates for commercials.
Lucy Frazer
Regular discussions with the Treasury and industry stakeholders ensure continued support. Screen sector tax reliefs have delivered over 200,000 new jobs and more than £13 billion in economic output.
Session: Creative Industries Tax Relief
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My constituent Amani Ahmed arrived here from Gaza for her PhD just days before the outbreak of the war and is now desperately trying to bring her husband and three children to the UK. UK Visas and Immigration advises travelling to the nearest visa application centre but that is impossible as they are unable to leave Gaza. Can the Minister urgently intervene to ensure that Amani's family are able to join her safely in the UK?
Andrew Mitchell
The hon. Lady will know that there is a specific track to pursue on this, and if she has not already been in touch with the crisis centre at the Foreign Office, that is what she should do immediately.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why did the Government leave the audit and governance reform Bill out of the King's Speech when it was promised in 2021? Is there a reconsideration to make the corporate regulatory framework fit for purpose?
Context
The Government have excluded a Bill promised since 2021, prompting criticism that this is a lost opportunity for UK businesses. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland has also criticized the decision.
Kevin Hollinrake
Time and again, Opposition parties seek to wrap businesses up in red tape, whereas Conservatives are keen to cut red tape. Consultation with businesses revealed concerns about imposing additional reporting requirements, while the Government are looking to simplify and streamline existing requirements.
Session: Audit and Corporate Governance Reform
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What recent progress has the Department made on bringing forward legislative proposals for audit and corporate governance reform, given that significant reforms to the FRC have already been delivered?
Context
The question follows a period of promised reforms but no legislative action. The Financial Reporting Council's capabilities have been strengthened but specific legislation remains pending.
Kevin Hollinrake
We remain committed to reform. Significant reforms have already been delivered to the Financial Reporting Council to strengthen its capabilities and drive up audit quality.
Session: Audit and Corporate Governance Reform
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The UK Government said that post-Brexit domestic employment would fill labour gaps, but the executive director of UKHospitality Scotland has said that the gaps left by excluding EU workers have not been filled, leaving huge numbers of specialist vacancies, such as for chefs and managers. When will this Government accept reality and stop destroying Scotland's economy in the name of a purist Brexit ideology?
Context
UKHospitality Scotland claims that the labour gaps left by excluding EU workers have not been filled, leaving many specialist job vacancies.
Alister Jack
I think the hon. Lady lives in a parallel universe. We have the highest net migration to the UK since records began, far higher than when we were in the EU. As I say, if we want to attract people to Scotland, we must stop making it the highest-taxed part of the United Kingdom.
Session: Scottish Work Visa Scheme
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If he will make an assessment with Cabinet colleagues of the potential merits of devolving the power to introduce a Scottish work visa scheme to the Scottish Government.
Context
MP questions the merits of devolving immigration powers specifically for Scotland.
Alister Jack
The United Kingdom Government have introduced a single, flexible immigration system that works in the interest of the whole United Kingdom. A separate visa system would create an economic migration border between Scotland and the rest of the UK, which would be harmful for employers and far less attractive for workers.
Session: Scottish Work Visa Scheme
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What lessons has he learned from previous errors of judgment regarding austerity, and how will he support vulnerable groups?
Context
Research shows a significant decline in UK children's height rankings since the austerity programme launched in 2010.
Jeremy Hunt
Reducing the deficit allowed the Government to provide over £3,000 in payments per household during the pandemic.
Session: Food Inflation
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How are Foreign Secretary and his Ministers working with international counterparts to prevent any deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure?
Context
Concerns about the deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Andrew Mitchell
By drawing all parties' attention to the international rules of war.
Session: Israel, Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories Humanitarian Access and Human Rights
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At the Welsh Affairs Committee this morning, the First Minister Mark Drakeford blamed the UK Government for not giving adequate financial support to the Welsh Government in times of high inflation and a cost of living crisis. Can the Secretary of State tell us how much his Department is spending on promoting the UK Government in Wales? Why does he think that is a better use of taxpayers' money than funding services for the people of Wales?
Context
The MP questioned the adequacy of financial support given to the Welsh Government by the UK Government during high inflation and a cost of living crisis.
David Davies
First, I can assure the hon. Lady that the Welsh Labour Government are receiving a record-breaking settlement of more than £18 billion, and 20% more per head to spend on public services than is spent in England. As far as spending on public affairs and promotion is concerned, a far greater amount is spent by the Welsh Labour Government than is ever spent by the Wales Office.
Session: Strength of the Union
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What is the Minister doing to combat late payments for SMEs? The problem of late payments coupled with rising energy costs and other inflationary pressures make running small businesses impossible.
Context
Recent figures show that small businesses in the UK are owed over £32 billion in late payments. EU sets out an SME relief package to tackle this issue.
Kevin Hollinrake
We launched a payment and cash flow review earlier this year, which is due to report very shortly. We will be ambitious in making sure small businesses get paid more quickly.
Session: Topical Questions
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That is excellent to hear, because the hospitality sector plays a crucial role in Scotland's economy, but it has consistently been let down by the UK Government, who repeatedly fail to support the industry with the unique challenges it faces. Businesses across Scotland are grappling with inflationary pressures, labour and skill shortages and the ever-increasing complexity of trading rules with 27 countries we once traded with freely. Why will the Minister not accept that Brexit lies at the heart of these problems?
Context
The Scottish hospitality sector faces challenges including inflationary pressures, labour and skill shortages, and complex trading rules with EU countries post-Brexit.
Kevin Hollinrake
If the hon. Lady looks again, she will find that the Scottish Government lie at the heart of these problems. In England, all eligible businesses can get 75% relief on their rates, subject to a cap of £110,000, while in Scotland, rates relief is available only to small businesses and could be as low as between 25% and 0% for individual properties with rateable values from £15,000. There is far more support available for English businesses than for Scottish businesses.
Session: Hospitality Sector Scotland
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Whether she has had recent discussions with (a) Cabinet colleagues and (b) the Scottish Government on support for Scotland's hospitality sector. The hospitality sector plays a crucial role in Scotland's economy but faces unique challenges due to inflationary pressures, labour shortages, and complex trading rules post-Brexit.
Context
The Scottish hospitality sector faces challenges including inflationary pressures, labour and skill shortages, and complex trading rules with EU countries post-Brexit.
Kevin Hollinrake
As the hon. Member will be aware, hospitality support is devolved. We continue to provide energy support via the energy bills discount scheme, benefiting hospitality businesses across the UK. I would be happy to meet her and any of her colleagues to see how we can help hospitality businesses across the whole UK.
Session: Hospitality Sector Scotland
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Does the Chancellor accept that small businesses cannot keep picking up the tab for his Government's disastrous Brexit? What is he doing to solve these staffing problems?
Context
Loss of freedom of movement has damaged businesses' ability to recruit staff, leading to reduced opening hours and closures.
Jeremy Hunt
May I gently say that this country has actually grown faster than France or Germany since we left the single market. SNP's economic policies have led to more people out of work in Scotland compared to England.
Session: Brexit Economic Impact
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What recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of withdrawal from the EU on the economy. The loss of freedom of movement has hugely damaged businesses' ability to recruit staff in Scotland; UK pubs alone lost £22 million due to staff shortages over a bank holiday.
Context
The MP is concerned about the economic consequences of Brexit, particularly regarding trade barriers and staffing issues.
Jeremy Hunt
Brexit was a choice made by the British people, and it remains a big opportunity for the economy. The UK has grown faster than France or Germany since leaving the single market. This country has more people out of work and fewer in work compared to England due to SNP's economic policies.
Session: Brexit Economic Impact
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What are the UK Government doing to encourage big polluters to sign up and enact provisions for reducing plastic production?
Context
The world generates 430 million tonnes of plastic annually, and a global treaty could cut production by 80% by 2040.
Andrew Mitchell
The hon. Lady raises an important issue. The Government are fully engaged through multilateral channels in driving forward the treaty.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Chancellor's spring Budget announced measures to get the over-50s to return or stay in work, but did not announce any support for those experiencing menopause. The UK Government have rejected most of the recommendations in the report on menopause by the Women and Equalities Committee, whose Chair has said that it is a missed opportunity to protect vast numbers of women from leaving the workforce. Why have the UK Government not followed the Committee's recommendations?
Context
The Chancellor's spring Budget included measures to encourage over-50s to remain in work but did not address support for those going through menopause. The Women and Equalities Committee report on menopause was largely rejected by the UK Government, leading to concerns about protecting women from leaving the workforce.
Mims Davies
We have appointed a Government champion on menopause matters, Helen Tomlinson, who is doing sterling work. Our 50PLUS coaches in jobcentres are supporting women to progress, and I urge all employers to focus on supporting women, adjusting the workplace and listening to their needs so that 50-plus can be the most important, progressive and positive time of women's working lives.
Session: Topical Questions
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What discussions has the Secretary of State had with devolved counterparts on the potential location of investment zones in Scotland? What steps is he taking to tailor those zones to Scotland's economic strengths and the Scottish Government's ambition of transitioning to a wellbeing economy?
Context
Discussions are ongoing with devolved counterparts about the potential location of investment zones. The SNP is advocating for these zones to be tailored to Scotland's economic strengths and its goal of transitioning to a wellbeing economy.
Michael Gove
I have had good conversations with SNP leaders regarding this issue, and we want to ensure that investment zones operate in a way that aligns with the Scottish Government's priorities. However, no specific steps or plans were detailed.
Session: Topical Questions
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Mike Park, the chief executive officer of the Scottish White Fish Producers Association, told The New York Times that his industry members were the “poster boys” of Brexit, but now admit that Brexit has delivered nothing, saying: 'It has left some very negative legacies and hasn't provided any of the positives we were promised.' Given the latest polling shows that only 9% think that the decision to leave the EU was more of a success than a failure and 62% describe it as more of a flop, and given the damage to Scotland's global fresh food and drinks sector, can the Secretary of State finally agree that the only Brexit growth our economy is experiencing is in managed decline?
Context
The chief executive officer of the Scottish White Fish Producers Association expressed disappointment over Brexit. Polling data shows a negative sentiment towards the decision to leave the EU.
Therese Coffey
What can I say? Rubbish. The quota for British fishermen, including Scottish fishermen, has gone up since we left the European Union. We have signed new trade deals, the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership being the latest. We have announced an extra five agricultural attachés around the world, making 16 in total, who will promote great British food, including fish, around the world.
Session: Fresh Food and Drinks Duty and Customs
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What recent assessment have you made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the duty and customs regime following the UK's exit from the EU on the fresh food and drinks sector?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the fresh food and drinks sector after the UK's exit from the EU. The MP is asking for an assessment with Cabinet colleagues on how this regime will affect trade.
Therese Coffey
The Government recognise the importance of trade in the food and drink sector. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs regularly reviews UK import and export trade statistics, including from the European Union. In April, the Government presented their draft border target operating model for all goods imports into Great Britain. To ensure enough time for proper preparedness, we will implement the model across three milestones between the end of October and 31 October 2024. In the longer term, the UK single trade window will enable all information required to import and export goods to be submitted to border agencies through one interface, further simplifying the process for traders.
Session: Fresh Food and Drinks Duty and Customs
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The carbon footprint of private jets is on par with 200,000 people flying to Hong Kong. The report calls for halving the number of such flights. Will the Secretary of State discuss this issue with his colleague the Foreign Secretary?
Context
A recent report commissioned by the Department for Transport indicates that private jet flights in the UK have a significant carbon footprint, comparable to 200,000 people taking a return flight to Hong Kong.
Grant Shapps
Private jets are in the news frequently, but to address the carbon footprint issue sustainably, we need to focus on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for the short term. The UK has set a leading target of 10% SAF in our energy mix by 2030.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Foreign Secretary explain how the diplomatic staff overseeing Scottish Minister meetings will prevent discussion of forbidden topics? Given that foreign direct investment growth was 14% in Scotland versus 1.8% in rest of UK last year, why is such interference necessary?
Context
The Foreign Secretary's diplomatic staff will oversee meetings between Scottish Ministers and other countries' ministers, prompting concern over restricted topics.
James Cleverly
Scottish Ministers should focus on supporting Scotland rather than discussing forbidden topics. The FCDO promotes Scottish interests overseas, improving health outcomes and tax rates.
Session: Topical Questions
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In his response to the hon. Member for Blaydon on 22 February, the Secretary of State claimed that the Scottish Government had not asked for an exemption from the UK Internal Market Act 2020 for the Scottish deposit return scheme. The Scottish Government have since published the timeline showing that this claim is incorrect and that the proposal has been under detailed discussion within the resources and waste common framework since last October, with the final detailed case for exclusion presented on 13 February. In light of this, will he correct the record and apologise for inadvertently misleading Parliament?
Context
There is a dispute regarding the timeline for requesting an exemption from the UK Internal Market Act for the Scottish deposit return scheme.
Alister Jack
This is an important point and has had a lot of airtime in the media in Scotland. I can say to the hon. Lady that, while officials and civil servants spoke to one another over a period of time, the official request to Ministers came in the inter-ministerial group meeting, which the Under-Secretary of State for Scotland was at, on 6 March. That is all minuted. It is a fact, it is on the record and there is no question. The UK Government have published it. The official request was on 6 March. I would also say that the Scottish Government proceeded with a deposit return scheme that small businesses, consumers and others are very concerned about. Even the chief executive of Tesco said yesterday that it is not the right scheme and it is not fit for purpose.
Session: Devolution Settlement
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Does the Secretary of State agree with the JCHR's conclusion that the UK Government should not proceed with his proposed British Bill of Rights?
Context
The Joint Committee on Human Rights concluded that the Government should not proceed with a British Bill of Rights.
Dominic Raab
We showed only last week, when we brought together more than 40 countries to give effect to the International Criminal Court mandate to investigate and prosecute war crimes in Ukraine, how we are leading the charge and upholding the international rule of law. That is not helped, however, by abuses of the system.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why did the Chancellor not take steps to abolish the non-dom regime despite researchers estimating it denies about £3.2 billion per year?
Context
Researchers estimate that the non-dom regime denies £3.2 billion per year to the Exchequer, but no steps were taken in last week's Budget.
Victoria Atkins
We have looked carefully at this and are concerned about behavioural ramifications and competitiveness with international partners.
Session: Topical Questions
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Secretaries of State, previously and just now, have failed to answer the question from the Plaid Cymru leader on this. The right to self-determination is set out in article 1 of the international covenant on civil and political rights. Will the proposed British Bill of Rights uphold that by enshrining the right to self-determination for the peoples of Wales, Scotland, England and Northern Ireland?
Context
The previous Secretary of State did not answer a similar question about the right to self-determination under the Bill of Rights.
David Davies
The Bill of Rights is clearly a reserved matter for the UK Government. The UK Government will always respect the right of devolved Administrations to legislate in areas for which they are responsible, and we would assume that the devolved Administrations will respect the right of the UK Government to legislate in areas for which they are responsible.
Session: Bill of Rights Self-determination for Wales
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Public sector pay increases are a sensible way for a Government to help their citizens with a cost of living crisis, but the UK Government are denying devolved Governments the ability to do that by cutting devolved budgets. Would a better use of public money not be to shut down the Scotland Office propaganda unit and transfer its budget to the Scottish Government to help fund pay rises for tens of thousands of people in Scotland?
Context
The UK Government are denying devolved Governments the ability to increase public sector pay in response to a cost of living crisis.
Alister Jack
The hon. Lady and I have this discussion on many occasions, because this is one of the points that she is keenest to make in the Select Committee on Scottish Affairs. She knows the answer, which is that the Scotland Office's spending on its communications pales into insignificance in comparison with the Scottish Government's.
Session: Devolved Finances
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Skyrocketing inflation, much of it caused by calamities on the Government Benches, means that the Scottish Government's annual budget is worth up to £900 million less than it was just a few weeks ago. When will the UK Government devolve more borrowing powers to Scotland, so we can give the extra, desperately needed assistance to those struggling the most in our country?
Context
Skyrocketing inflation has reduced the Scottish Government's annual budget by up to £900 million. The UK government needs to devolve more borrowing powers to Scotland.
John Glen
I spoke about such matters with Jon Swinney, in my second conversation with him since appointment three weeks ago, last evening. We discussed a range of matters, and I will always try to be as constructive as I can to find ways forward when the whole of the United Kingdom faces the inflationary scourge everywhere.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State says that he is boosting GP trainee numbers, but according to the Royal College of General Practitioners, 49% of the more than 40% of GP trainees who are international graduates have reported visa processing problems and 17% are considering leaving the UK altogether. Why are the UK Government hamstringing the NHS with red tape, and what is the Secretary of State doing to sort this out with ministerial colleagues?
Context
There are visa processing problems affecting international graduate GP trainees, causing recruitment difficulties.
Steve Barclay
We are seeking to boost recruitment, including international recruitment, and to remove red tape. Within the GP population, however, we are looking at retention, recruitment and boosting the number of trainees.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Government's lead adviser on food issues has condemned the Minister's response to the national food strategy. With reports of children crying due to hunger and Scotland providing free school meals for primary students up to age 16, when will this Government match these actions?
Context
A Government advisor criticized the response to a national food strategy, citing concerns about increased child hunger.
Andrea Jenkyns
£1.9 million has been allocated for free school meals and over £2 billion for the pupil premium, supporting disadvantaged students through reforms.
Session: Cost of Living Additional Support for School Pupils and HE Students
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Royal Bank of Scotland Branch Closures
14 May 2024
Responding: Bim Afolami
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the rapid closure of Royal Bank of Scotland branches, which leaves communities in Edinburgh North and Leith vulnerable. Despite the bank's claim to serve Scottish communities, the decision to close the branch in Leith is baffling as it serves a vibrant and growing part of the city with diverse banking needs. The branch closures pose particular challenges for older people who cannot easily manage without physical branches or mobile banking services. Since 2015, almost 635 branches have closed in Scotland, yet only nine hubs have opened and only 15 sites have been recommended as suitable since the trials ended in 2021."]
Specific Asks
['I call on the Government to introduce a community right to physical banking services and to loosen up criteria for bank hub proposals so that communities do not have to wait until the last branch leaves their town before hubs will even be considered. The roll-out of these measures needs to be widened and accelerated.']
Time Banking
27 February 2024
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
['The hon. Member is concerned about the decline in traditional community structures, such as religious organisations and local networks, leading to social isolation and loneliness among adults in the UK. She cited Office for National Statistics data showing a decrease of 7.2% since 2014-15 in those who feel their neighbours are willing to help them and an 8% fall in trust within neighbourhoods. Additionally, she mentioned that nearly half (49%) of adults reported feeling lonely occasionally, sometimes, often or always in 2022.']
Specific Asks
["The hon. Member urges the Minister to support Timebanking UK's proposal for a three-year national programme to expand time banking networks and create public awareness campaigns. She suggests additional funding could enable the creation of start-up packs for up to 100 new time banks at an estimated cost of £20,000 to £50,000 per pack."]
Asylum-seeking Children: Hotel Accommodation
07 June 2023
Responding: Robert Jenrick
Main Concerns
['I spoke to organisations that support unaccompanied asylum-seeking children and found them completely bewildered and terrified upon arrival in the UK. Some have experienced physical violence, persecution, torture, human rights abuses, and extreme poverty. The Home Office houses these children in hotels on a short-term basis but does not provide adequate protection as required by law under section 20 of the Children Act 1989. Over 4,600 unaccompanied children have been placed in such accommodation since the Home Office took charge of their care two years ago, with no exit strategy from this practice. The Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration found staff at some hotels without Disclosure and Barring Service checks, leading to hundreds of missing children. An open letter by over 100 charities and UN experts called for an end to accommodating separated children in hotels due to the risks of abuse and neglect.']
Specific Asks
["The Home Office needs to provide up-to-date figures on unaccompanied asylum-seeking children placed in hotels since July 2021, as requested by the Children's Commissioner for England. The UK Government must commit to publishing a written report on missing children from Home Office hotels and take immediate steps to prevent similar issues from happening again."]
Food Security
31 March 2022
Responding: Victoria Prentis
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member for Glasgow North West is concerned about the global food crisis caused by Russia's war in Ukraine, which has led to a significant humanitarian emergency and potential famine in parts of Africa and the Middle East. The UN World Food Programme estimates that at least 30% of the Ukrainian population needs lifesaving food assistance, with 90% potentially facing extreme poverty. Additionally, she highlights issues such as rising food prices due to increased costs for fertiliser, fuel, seed, and feed, compounded by labour shortages and reduced yields. Furthermore, pre-existing food insecurity in the UK has worsened during the pandemic, affecting nearly 6 million adults and 2.5 million children."]
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member requests that the Government take immediate action to address the crisis by securing fertiliser supplies for farmers through subsidies, overhauling immigration policy to attract necessary workers, and aligning benefits with inflation to alleviate food poverty. She also urges cross-departmental collaboration within the UK Government and seeks commitments similar to those made in Scotland.']
Electoral Commission Committee
23 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
21 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Risk-based Exclusion
13 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focuses on a motion concerning risk-based exclusion policies in the House of Commons, specifically regarding amendments to Standing Orders and procedures for handling charges against Member...
Immigration Update
01 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defence Spending
24 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Infected Blood Inquiry
23 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
18 April 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion calls for the Government to address fragmented and inconsistent redress landscapes by creating statutory guidance with common principles. The speaker highlights examples of failures in comp...
Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
17 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Women’s State Pension Age
25 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Gaza
19 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
5
PMQs Asked
107
Ministerial Questions Asked
135
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
2
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+37% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+698% above average
This MP:
107
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2678% above average
This MP:
135
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-79% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Deidre Brock's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.