Edward Morello
MP for West Dorset
Lib Dem
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Jhoots Pharmacy has been responsible for repeated closures, leaving staff unpaid and residents without access to vital medicine. Will the Prime Minister make time in the parliamentary schedule for emergency legislation to give the Government and regulators powers to pay staff, tackle improper pharmacy owners and directors, and ensure that scandals like this can never happen again?
Context
The MP raised the issue of unfit pharmacy owners, such as Sarbjit Jhooty, who have severely neglected patients and staff in West Dorset.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank the hon. Member for raising this very serious issue. The Care Minister has convened representatives from across the industry to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.
Session: PMQs
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What steps will the Minister take to ensure police forces adopt genuinely trauma-informed misconduct processes for officers who are victims of sexual assault, rape and domestic abuse? I am highlighting a case where my constituent faced severe trauma yet her mental health was not considered during misconduct proceedings.
Context
The MP raises a case involving a police officer constituent who was subjected to misconduct proceedings after being raped and suffering from severe trauma. The situation highlights the need for genuinely trauma-informed approaches in dealing with such cases.
Sarah Jones
I am sorry about my constituent's case and would discuss it further. We are examining misconduct procedures and supporting officers, including addressing domestic abuse through collaboration with women's organizations to ensure proper responses.
Session: Mental Health Support for Police Officers 2026-07-13
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What steps her Department is taking to improve mental health support for police officers? I am concerned about the impact on our police workforce and the need for timely, effective support following the tragic loss of PC Jess Turnbull.
Context
The MP is concerned about the mental health and wellbeing of police officers, highlighting a recent incident involving PC Jess Turnbull who died in service. The MP wants to know specific steps being taken by the government to address this issue.
Sarah Jones
I pay tribute to PC Jess Turnbull and acknowledge the importance of providing better mental health support. The Government is allocating £2.4 million towards a package that includes enhanced trauma support, improved occupational health provision, and stronger leadership on wellbeing, working closely with police partners.
Session: Mental Health Support for Police Officers 2026-07-13
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What is the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office doing with European allies to help the Palestinian people?
Context
Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered the Israeli military to seize control of 70% of the Gaza strip, destroying homes and causing an estimated $53 billion in damage.
Yvette Cooper
I met with European partners and others in Paris on Friday to discuss the importance of providing new energy behind not just the two-state solution but, specifically, the Gaza 20-point plan. That is why we have announced the international peace fund.
Session: Topical Questions
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Unfair terms on retirement village leases are leaving grieving families in Derby trapped with huge exit fees while extortionate service charges rack up. Will the Minister support those families by addressing unfair terms?
Context
A constituent unable to wind up an estate since 2023 faces high service charges and exit fees, potentially wiping out sale value.
Matthew Pennycook
We are looking carefully at resale values and recommendations from older people's housing taskforce in this area. I invite both my hon. Friend and the hon. Member for West Dorset to send examples they have referenced, which would be incredibly useful evidence on how the issue affects homeowners and families.
Session: Retirement Home Exit Fees
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What recent assessment his Department has made of trends in the level of exit fees for retirement homes. A constituent unable to wind up estate since 2023 faces £15,000 service charges plus exit fees that will wipe out value from sale. Steps taken by Government to tackle excessive service charges and ban exit fees?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the fairness and transparency of exit fees in retirement housing.
Matthew Pennycook
Event fees should be fair, transparent and communicated effectively. We consulted on measures last year to strengthen leaseholder protections including event fees and will respond to the consultation soon. Resale values are influenced by various factors but recommendations from older people's housing taskforce commented on resale values and what might be done.
Session: Retirement Home Exit Fees
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Will the Secretary of State reform the police funding formula to account for rurality, lower council tax growth, and seasonality?
Context
Dorset police is among the worst-funded forces, facing higher operating costs due to rural geography and population increases during summer.
Sarah Jones
We have already announced that we are reforming the police funding formula.
Session: Topical Questions
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The UK should be the world leader in greenhouse gas removals, but the sector is struggling to attract funding and off-takers because of uncertainty about Government support for GGRs. Will the Government please confirm when they plan to publish their response to the independent GGRs review, and whether the Department is considering the launch of a UK buyers' club, running along similar lines to the EU system?
Michael Shanks
The hon. Member is right about the ambition, and that is why we commissioned the independent review by my noble Friend Lord Whitehead. We will respond to that review in due course, and we are ambitious about the role that GGRs can play.
Session: Topical Questions
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What assessment has been made of the adequacy of progress in transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources?
Context
Progress on clean power mission is being assessed.
Michael Shanks
We are making good progress towards targets with successful renewables auction securing power for 11 million homes and record-breaking solar installations. We see huge potential for the clean energy transition right across the country.
Session: Transition from Fossil Fuels Progress
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Beyond AUKUS, will the Minister look at drone capability and investment plans into companies like Skycutter to ensure they stay here?
Context
AUKUS announced new technologies for unmanned drone vehicles. Companies such as Skycutter are developing sovereign capabilities.
Luke Pollard
The Government are committed to increasing funding for autonomy and drones. We have invested more capabilities and will continue exporting these to allies. The defence investment plan, coming soon, should see more of this.
Session: Defence Procurement
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What steps are being taken to expedite defence procurement? In West Dorset, defence sector companies provide skilled employment and apprenticeships but face repeated delays in the defence investment plan and a slow procurement process. Companies fear relocating to Europe or the US by next year. How will releasing the DIP benefit businesses, especially SMEs?
Context
The defence sector in the South-West provides over 40,000 jobs and contributes more than £3 billion to the economy. Local firms face frustration due to delays in the Defence Investment Plan and a slow procurement process.
Luke Pollard
We have signed 1,200 major defence deals since the general election, and analysis shows they deliver benefit for 8,000 SMEs and micro-SMEs. We will continue to increase direct spend with small businesses by speeding up procurement. The previous system was broken, but we are improving it.
Session: Defence Procurement
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Following Storm Chandra, vast swathes of West Dorset are under water. An amber warning is in place, and we are expecting more flooding. Whole villages have become islands. Eighty-four houses in Yetminster have sewage in them. One family in Maiden Newton had only just moved back into their house following 15 months of repairs after the previous flooding, only to get flooded again within three days. Will the Minister please visit West Dorset and explain to residents how she will get the water companies and the Environment Agency to focus on flood-prone areas?
Context
Storm Chandra caused severe flooding in multiple villages in West Dorset.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Hardy)
I can hear the hon. Gentleman’s passion and how upset he is about the devastating impact that repeated flooding has had on his community. We are putting a record amount of money into flood defences and will continue to do so. We are also looking at how we can work more effectively with other agencies in the area.
Session: Topical Questions
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Vast swathes of Bridport, Beaminster, Maiden Newton, Yetminster and Thornford—whole parts of West Dorset—are under water. Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service is doing an amazing job of rescuing residents who are trapped either at home or in cars, but unfortunately it will suffer a £1.2 million shortfall in the long-term funding settlement because the Treasury’s underlying assumptions are incorrect. Will the Chancellor meet me, so that we can show her why this is a problem for the service?
Context
The MP highlighted extensive flooding in his constituency, affecting multiple towns and leading to a shortfall in funding for the local fire service. He mentioned that the area will suffer a £1.2 million shortfall due to incorrect Treasury assumptions.
James Murray
Let me start by thanking the emergency services in the hon. Gentleman’s constituency for all their work to ensure that people are kept safe, and to respond to the challenges that people face as a result of flooding. We are determined to support public services across the board, and the decisions taken by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor in past Budgets and in the spending review mean that we have sustainable funding for our public services in all parts of the country.
Session: Topical Questions
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What assessment has the Department made of the long-term financial stability of both grassroots and premiership rugby?
Context
Over the last 24 years, 174 grassroots rugby clubs have disappeared. Premiership clubs owe the Government massive amounts in covid loans and carry £340 million in debt.
Stephanie Peacock
The governance of rugby union is a matter for the Rugby Football Union, which is independent of Government, but the Government monitor the financial situation of rugby union closely. The DCMS continues to work with the RFU and I am happy to discuss that further with the hon. Gentleman.
Session: Topical Questions
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NHS dentistry in West Dorset is in crisis. We have just 15 practices offering any kind of NHS care, and only half of young people have seen a dentist in the last two years. Residents are writing to me about elderly people removing their own teeth and children in A&E with preventable tooth decay. What consideration has the Minister given to requiring supervised trainee dentists on placement at dental training schools to work exclusively on NHS waiting lists rather than taking private appointments, which would help reduce the backlog?
Context
NHS dentistry in West Dorset is facing a severe crisis with only 15 practices offering any kind of NHS care, and less than half of young people having seen a dentist in the past two years. Residents are reporting preventable health issues such as elderly individuals removing their own teeth and children needing emergency dental treatment.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
The hon. Gentleman will have noted that we have committed to tie-ins for future dentists going through the training programme. It costs the taxpayer hundreds of thousands of pounds to train a dentist, and we believe it is absolutely right that a significant percentage of their time should be put into NHS dentistry.
Session: NHS Dental Services West Dorset
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How will we ensure that online safety measures address sharing of real-world violent content that retraumatises victims and leads to further harassment?
Context
In West Dorset, a 14-year-old girl was brutally attacked and the assault was filmed and circulated online, leading to further harassment. This amplifies real-world violence through humiliation and continued trauma.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Kanishka Narayan)
I thank the hon. Member for raising an important point. The Online Safety Act 2023 focuses on illegal content, particularly to keep young people safe under child safety duties. If there are specific instances, I am happy to raise them with Ofcom and platforms.
Session: Online Harassment
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Will the Treasury commit to reviewing the funding formula, so that local government, integrated care boards, fire services and all our vital community services get the funding that rural communities deserve?
Context
Rural areas face higher costs for delivering public services compared to urban areas.
Dorking and Horley
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government recently published “English indices of deprivation 2025”, which included the supplementary report on how deprivation manifests in rural areas. I can assure the hon. Gentleman that the Government will further consider those assessments of deprivation, as well as other inputs, when deciding funding models for local areas.
Session: Topical Questions
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I recently met the Water Minister to discuss the Independent Water Commission’s recommendation for pre-pipe solutions to prevent sewage overflows. Will the Minister meet me and Cabinet colleagues to make rainwater harvesting mandatory on all new home builds and major developments?
Matthew Pennycook
If memory serves, I answered another question from the hon. Gentleman on precisely this topic. He knows that we are out to consultation on the matter. If he wants to write to me in the first instance with further details about the type of changes he is seeking, I would be more than happy to respond.
Session: Topical Questions
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In West Dorlet, overloaded sewers and outdated infrastructure cause repeated sewage spills. Rainwater enters combined systems, overwhelming capacity and causing them to overflow. The Independent Water Commission recommended pre-pipe solutions to reduce storm overflows. Will the Secretary of State introduce a national rainwater management strategy and require rainwater harvesting on all new homes and renovations?
Context
The MP highlighted the issue of overloaded sewers and outdated infrastructure causing repeated sewage spills during rainstorms. The Independent Water Commission recommended pre-pipe solutions to reduce storm overflows.
The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Reynolds)
I thank the hon. Member for his question, and I look forward to working with him on this issue. We will look at pre-pipe solutions in the forthcoming White Paper, which I look forward to discussing with him when we publish it.
Session: Water Sector Reform
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Due to West Dorset’s rural nature, children with special educational needs and disabilities have difficulty accessing education. A young girl who had a stroke lost her transport two days before starting school. Will the Minister work across Departments to solve this issue?
Context
Children with special educational needs and disabilities face difficulties accessing education due to rural nature of the area.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
We recognise the concern raised by the hon. Gentleman, which many Members have highlighted. We will set out plans to improve the system through the schools White Paper. Contributions from the hon. Gentleman and his colleagues are welcome as we prioritise children's interests.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will those choices come at the expense of rural communities such as West Dorset, or will she commit to reviewing the funding model to ensure that rurality is a funding metric?
Context
Edward Morello inquired about the funding model and whether it would include rurality as a metric to support rural areas better.
James Murray
At the spending review, we set out record investment into farming and rural communities right across this country. That is only possible because of the choices that we have made on taxation and balancing the public finances.
Session: Topical Questions
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Outdated sewer systems mix clean rainwater with sewage, polluting rivers and placing strains on outdated infrastructure. If the Government are intent on not making water companies statutory consultees, a national rainwater management strategy mandating rainwater harvesting on new homes and major renovations would ease the pressure on infrastructure and reduce the likelihood of sewage overflows. What recent conversations has the Minister had with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs about introducing a national rainwater management strategy? Will he consider making rainwater harvesting a mandatory requirement on new housing developments?
Context
The Department's assessment of requiring water companies to be statutory consultees for new housing developments was prompted by outdated sewer systems that mix clean rainwater with sewage, leading to pollution and infrastructure strain.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
The hon. Gentleman raises an apt point. I regularly meet colleagues from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to discuss a range of issues, including water efficiency and management. I draw his attention to the consultation we launched just last month to review the water efficiency standards in the Building Regulations 1991 (as amended). As part of that, we are investigating how we can bring technologies such as rainwater harvesting into new developments safely.
Session: Housing Development Statutory Consultees Water Companies
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The hon. Member noted the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza where more than 640,000 Gazans are projected to face catastrophic food insecurity and over 43,000 Palestinian children will be at severe risk of death from malnutrition by next year. He stated that the Government have received legal advice regarding the famine in Gaza and Israel’s role in it. He asked whether breaches of international law have occurred and requested a commitment to publish any government advice on this matter.
Context
By the end of September, more than 640,000 Gazans are projected to face catastrophic food insecurity, while over 43,000 Palestinian children will be at severe risk of death from malnutrition by next year. This situation has raised concerns about potential breaches of international law.
The Solicitor General
The hon. Member will appreciate that I cannot comment on any legal advice that may or may not have been given or, indeed, whether it has been sought. However, what I can confirm is twofold: first, the Government take their legal obligations extremely seriously; secondly, the Government are very clear in our position that the horrors taking place in Gaza need to be brought to an end.
Session: International Law Compliance
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Natural disasters like the earthquake in Jalalabad, recent wildfires and floods are becoming more and more frequent as a result of climate change. Support for Ukraine and for Gaza have survived the disastrous cuts to ODA, but what assessments has the Department made of the impact of ODA reductions on countries facing humanitarian and natural disasters, and can the UK still provide the amount of aid needed to prevent displacement and migration as a result of those crises?
Context
Natural disasters such as earthquakes, wildfires, and floods are becoming more frequent due to climate change. The UK has provided aid for Ukraine and Gaza despite ODA cuts.
Stephen Doughty (The Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
We have seen horrific scenes in Afghanistan, and £1 million was given yesterday. We continue to support humanitarian work around the world and responding to disasters remains a key part of our approach. The detailed allocations will be set out in due course, informed by impact assessments before we publish multi-year allocations.
Session: Official Development Assistance Budget
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Many constituents in West Dorset have written to me with deep anxiety about the assessment for personal independence payments (PIP), especially the use of remote assessments. One constituent has endured months of repeated phone assessments despite previously being awarded enhanced PIP, triggering severe panic attacks and high blood pressure, causing lasting psychological harm. The Secretary of State has given a commitment to moving away from phone-based assessments, so what additional resources will be made available to support the roll-out of more face-to-face assessments in West Dorset?
Context
Constituents in West Dorset have expressed deep anxiety about the use of remote PIP assessments, with one constituent experiencing severe panic attacks and high blood pressure due to repeated phone assessments.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
There was a switch to remote assessments during the pandemic, but my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has committed repeatedly to moving sharply back to face-to-face assessments while keeping alternatives for those who need them. We are speaking with assessment providers and have already increased the proportion of face-to-face assessments, which will continue.
Session: Remote PIP Assessments
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Many GPs say that their buildings are not fit for purpose and lack digital infrastructure. Without fully integrated electronic patient records and better systems, including the electronic prescription service across all hospitals and community trusts, we risk wasting time and money while increasing pressure on frontline staff. Will the Minister outline the steps being taken to full integrate the electronic prescription service across all settings in Dorset?
Context
The MP highlighted the need for fully integrated EPRs and EPS across hospitals and community trusts to reduce pressure on frontline staff.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
The hon. Member highlights the importance of getting this right not only from hospital to discharge but, crucially, in primary care, where 90% of patient contacts happen across the system. That is why a central plank of our 10-year plan has been moving the entire system from the analogue to the digital age. We have allocated £10 billion, particularly in this spending review, to address this issue and make sure we get this right for the system and for patients.
Session: Electronic Patient Record Systems
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In an increasingly unstable world, working with our European allies on defence and weapons production is vital for our security and our economy. If investment is needed, providing it should not stand in the way of the opportunity to support UK defence manufacturers, enable joint research and development and promote Britain’s strategic interests on the global stage. What recent discussions has the Minister had with his European counterparts about ensuring that the UK has access to the Security Action for Europe fund?
Context
The question arises from the need to strengthen ties with European allies amid an unstable global security environment. Discussions are focused on ensuring UK access to the Security Action for Europe fund, which supports defence and weapons production.
Stephen Doughty (Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
I have been having regular conversations, as have the Foreign Secretary and colleagues across the Ministry of Defence and the Cabinet Office. I was in Poland just last week discussing with our Polish allies our important collaboration. The week before that, I was in Rome with the Weimar+ group. These are all active and ongoing conversations and, as the hon. Member said, they are absolutely crucial at a time of such geopolitical uncertainty.
Session: Security Action for Europe Initiative
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Many people in West Dorset receiving a personal independence payment receive the highest level of support. Many are extremely anxious about PIP assessments being carried out over the phone rather than in person, particularly those with complex or fluctuating conditions. Will the Minister guarantee that anyone who wants an in-person assessment will receive one?
Context
Some 40% of PIP recipients in West Dorset receive the highest level of support, and many are anxious about remote assessments.
Liz Kendall
Yes, we absolutely want that to happen. Indeed, we want to record the assessments as standard to ensure that claimants have confidence in what is being done. This is an issue that causes huge anxiety among my constituents. Too many decisions take too long and are overturned, and we want to deal with these problems head-on.
Session: Topical Questions
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New solar is 11% cheaper than the lowest-cost fossil fuel, and onshore wind is 39% cheaper, yet the marginal pricing system that ties electricity costs to the market price of gas has resulted in British consumers enduring the fourth-highest global energy prices during a cost of living crisis. Does the Minister agree that decoupling electricity prices from the gas market is essential if consumers are to enjoy lower-cost energy?
Context
The MP referenced the high energy costs during a cost of living crisis, noting that new solar is 11% cheaper than the lowest-cost fossil fuel and onshore wind is 39% cheaper.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Michael Shanks)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his expertise in this area, which he often brings to the House. He is absolutely right that decoupling from volatile and expensive gas prices is critical, and the journey we are on to develop clean power by 2030 will do that. Our objective is to deliver a clean power system where gas only provides the back-up, rather than setting the price, as it currently does.
Session: Decoupling Electricity and Gas Prices
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What discussions has the Secretary of State had with his Department and European counterparts to address those tariffs for a new trade arrangement for the Falkland Islands?
Context
The Foreign Affairs Committee heard from the Falkland Islands Government about detrimental post-Brexit tariffs affecting Falklands exports.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
I reassure the hon. Gentleman that we are always seeking to reduce tariff burdens for our overseas territories, and we are in ongoing discussions with the European Union in particular.
Session: Topical Questions
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The maintenance and upkeep of the 6,000 properties that constitute the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s overseas estate costs £250 million a year. Funding from the sale of assets is due to run out soon and there is no more to sell. What conversations have been had with the Treasury about a long-term sustainable funding model for the estate, and if the Treasury does not provide money, what cuts will be made?
Context
The maintenance of the FCDO's 6,000 properties is estimated at £250 million annually. Recent funding has come from asset sales with receipts running out this year or next.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Catherine West)
After the fire sale of assets by the former Government in 2010, the FCDO has been focusing on how to make good its estate. Now that funding from those sales is exhausted, the FCDO has developed a new estates prioritisation tool to ensure that finite resources are targeted at places of greatest need and weighted towards mitigating health and safety and security risks.
Session: Overseas Estate Urgent Repairs
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The Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change has made it clear that by 2050, we need to be removing 10 billion tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere every year if we are to stand a chance of keeping below the 1.5° target. It is clear that carbon removal, and not just carbon capture and storage, will play a critical role in our avoiding a climate disaster. In the face of the Conservative party once again embracing climate denialism, what steps will the Government take to support the research, development and deployment of carbon removal technologies to ensure that British companies become leaders in this emerging sector?
Context
The MP highlights the importance of carbon removal technologies in achieving net zero emissions.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. I can tell him that the Minister for Industry held a roundtable with a whole range of industry voices on this precise topic last week. He is right about this issue. There is scepticism about CCS in some parts of academia and elsewhere. All the evidence that I have seen from the Climate Change Committee, the IPCC and others, including the International Energy Agency, is that CCS technology has a crucial role to play on something like 20% of emissions. He is also right to say that carbon removal is the next stage of that journey, and it is something that my Department is heavily engaged in.
Session: Carbon Capture and Storage
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Kingston Maurward college in my constituency of West Dorset provides essential training in agriculture, offering degrees, apprenticeships and short courses to equip the next generation of farmers with critical skills. What measures will the Minister take to ensure that farming courses are not underfunded compared with other vocational courses, and that agriculture is promoted as a viable career path?
Context
Kingston Maurward college in West Dorset provides essential training in agriculture, offering degrees, apprenticeships and short courses to equip the next generation of farmers with critical skills.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Janet Daby)
This Government are committed to education for 16 to 19-year-olds, and beyond. Extra funding is available for all important skills in high-value and high-cost areas, including manufacturing and farming. We value farmers hugely and we are committed to investing £5 million in the farming budget over two years.
Session: Agricultural Education and Training
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West Dorset desperately needs new housing that is actually affordable for local people, especially key workers and young families looking to get on the housing ladder, but 70% of West Dorset falls within a protected national landscape, formerly an area of outstanding natural beauty. Rigid housing targets could lead to inappropriate developments that undermine the character of this protected area. What discussions has the Department had with local authorities in Dorset on adjusting housing targets to reflect the constraints of the national landscape and our rural infrastructure challenges?
Context
West Dorset faces a severe housing shortage, particularly for affordable homes suitable for key workers and young families. However, 70% of the area is designated as protected national landscape.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
Local authorities use the standard method to assess housing needs, but they can show evidence of any hard constraints in their areas, including protected landscapes. Those will be assessed by the Planning Inspectorate to judge whether the plan is sound. We are clear that local authorities should explore all options to deliver the homes that their communities need, including maximising the use of brownfield land, working with neighbouring authorities and, where appropriate, reviewing their green belt.
Session: New Housing Protected Landscapes
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A significant number of my constituents contribute to the defence sector, whether through apprenticeships, graduate roles or skilled employment. Many were schooled in West Dorset and now work in the surrounding areas, including for firms such as Leonardo in the neighbouring constituency of Yeovil. What assurances can the Minister give that contracts such as the new medium helicopter will be awarded quickly so that the futures of the many apprentices and employees in the defence sector are protected?
Context
The competition for a new medium helicopter contract is at the evaluation and approval stage. The programme experienced delays under the previous Government.
The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry (Maria Eagle)
The hon. Gentleman is right: some of these programmes can take a long time to get to contract. In fact, this programme experienced delays in securing outline business case approval under the previous Government. I hope that we can get it to the end of the line as swiftly as possible, in accordance with the current process, and that some of his constituents will benefit from having work to do on the new programme.
Session: New Medium Helicopter
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Given the vital role that farming plays in both our rural economy and in food security, what specific measures will the Government introduce to stop the need for diversification and ensure that farming remains a financially viable and attractive industry for the next generation of West Dorset farmers?
Context
Farmers in West Dorset are struggling with rising costs, regulatory burdens, market instability and low prices from supermarkets. This forces farmers to diversify away from food production.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
The hon. Gentleman makes an important set of points, but I point him to the speech that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State made at Oxford, because he made the very strong point that farming needs to get a better return for the hard work that farmers do. Alongside that, diversification is important to allow people to get through the difficult times, which inevitably come up in a cyclical business such as farming.
Session: Agriculture Sector Growth
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Some 52% of students at Dorset Studio school have special educational needs, and 11% are in receipt of education, health and care plans. A funding agreement between the Treasury and the Department for Education to upgrade the school’s facilities has seen no progress since May 2024. Will the Minister outline what steps the Department will take to get this ball rolling? If she does not know, will she meet me so that we can get things started as soon as possible?
Context
Dorset Studio school in West Dorset has a high percentage of students with special educational needs, and there is an ongoing funding agreement to upgrade the school's facilities which has not seen progress since May 2024.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
Improving capital provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities is a priority. We have allocated £740 million of additional investment to create those additional places in mainstream and special schools. I am more than happy to look at the case raised by the hon. Gentleman, indeed it might be for the Under-Secretary of State for Education, my hon. Friend the Member for Portsmouth South (Stephen Morgan), to look at.
Session: SEND Provision
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Dorset police operates across more than 1,000 square miles, yet under the current funding settlement it receives far less money than urban areas with similar crime rates operating over smaller geographies. Will the Government commit to reviewing the funding settlement to ensure that rural areas such as West Dorset get a fairer settlement?
Context
The MP highlights that his constituency, which operates across more than 1,000 square miles, receives less money under the current funding settlement compared to urban areas with similar crime rates operating over smaller geographies.
The Minister for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention (Dame Diana Johnson)
Of course, the hon. Gentleman’s force area is getting more money in the settlement announced just before Christmas. Clearly, we keep all formulas under consideration and, as the hon. Gentleman knows, we are going to go through a police reform package and programme with finance being part of it.
Session: Topical Questions
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What recent steps his Department has taken to deliver the ECHO 2 programme. The ECHO 2 programme is crucial to delivering the new global communications network for the FCDO. The Minister mentioned that it is due for completion in January 2025, but will it remain within budget? What are the plans to ensure that it delivers its full technical and financial benefits? Does the Minister think that any additional support or adjustments will be needed to ensure its delivery?
Context
The ECHO 2 telephone contract for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is crucial for a new global communications network.
Catherine West
The ECHO 2 telephone contract for telephones in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is 79% completed, but is on track for completion in January 2025. Ministers and officials have been working day and night to fix the procurement mistakes of the previous Government. With increased scrutiny and hard-working Ministers and officials, we will reach all targets. I will write to the hon. Gentleman with more details on his specific question.
Session: ECHO 2 Programme
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What recent steps his Department has taken to deliver the ECHO 2 programme. The ECHO 2 programme is crucial to delivering the new global communications network for the FCDO. The Minister mentioned that it is due for completion in January 2025, but will it remain within budget? What are the plans to ensure that it delivers its full technical and financial benefits? Does the Minister think that any additional support or adjustments will be needed to ensure its delivery?
Context
The ECHO 2 telephone contract for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is crucial for a new global communications network.
Catherine West
The ECHO 2 telephone contract for telephones in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is 79% completed, but is on track for completion in January 2025. Ministers and officials have been working day and night to fix the procurement mistakes of the previous Government. With increased scrutiny and hard-working Ministers and officials, we will reach all targets. I will write to the hon. Gentleman with more details on his specific question.
Session: ECHO 2 Programme
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West Dorset has seen a 134% increase in the number of children requiring SEN support in the last six years. As of the latest data, more than 275 children are waiting for education, care and health plan assessments, with the average waiting time well in excess of the 20-week statutory limit. Will the Minister outline what specific measures the Department is implementing to ensure that the much-needed £1 billion investment announced in the Budget is used to bring down waiting times for EHCPs in places such as West Dorset?
Context
In West Dorset, there has been a significant increase in the number of children requiring SEN support. The average waiting time for EHCP assessments exceeds the statutory limit.
Bridget Phillipson
The hon. Gentleman is right to raise his concern, as so many have this afternoon, about the state of the system for supporting children with SEND. It is not working, and we know it needs reform, but committing an extra £1 billion into the system at this crucial time was an important first step. We face choices on how to take this system forward, and how to make it less adversarial and more focused on better life chances for our children.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Rugby in Schools
14 July 2026
Responding: Josh MacAlister
Main Concerns
['Edward Morello is concerned about the decline of amateur rugby clubs, with 174 disappearing over 24 years and many more under financial pressure. He highlights issues such as ageing facilities, unsuitability for women and girls, and challenges in maintaining volunteer numbers. Research indicates that team sports like rugby offer significant educational and health benefits, including improved academic performance and mental wellbeing. Morello stresses the importance of community clubs beyond just rugby activities.']
Specific Asks
["Morello asks the Government to support investment in grassroots rugby by ensuring schools have access to facilities, coaching, and links with local clubs. He also requests clarity on objectives, priorities, delivery models, and timescales for school sport partnerships. The MP urges sustainable funding, staffing, professional development for school sports, and a curriculum that recognises team sports' benefits."]
Government Support for Bus Services: West Dorset
08 July 2026
Responding: Simon Lightwood
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member highlights the significant decline in bus services, noting a 52% fall in rural areas between 2008 and 2023, and a 62% reduction in service frequency in West Dorset. He cites over 1 billion fewer passenger journeys across England in 2023 compared to 2015, with 10 of Dorset's 14 towns already transport deserts or at risk. The hon. Member also points out the £1.2 billion annual cost of missed NHS appointments due to poor bus services and the impact on young people's opportunities and independence."]
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member requests that rurality be given greater weighting within the funding formula, advocating for dedicated ringfenced grant funding to support community transport initiatives where commercial routes have disappeared. He seeks a more joined-up approach between different modes of transport and encourages pilot projects for demand-responsive transport.']
English Rugby — [Valerie Vaz in the Chair]
10 March 2026
Responding: Ian Murray
Main Concerns
["Edward Morello is concerned about the financial struggles of grassroots rugby clubs and the decline in school sports provision. He highlights issues such as outdated facilities, lack of women's changing rooms, and the disappearance of 174 amateur clubs in the past 24 years. He also mentions the financial pressures on professional clubs, including significant debt and losses, and the need for a sustainable financial model to support the sport. He notes the importance of rugby in promoting community and diversity, and the need for government support to ensure the sport's growth and sustainability. Edward Morello is concerned about the financial stability of rugby clubs, particularly following the impact of the covid-19 pandemic. He mentions the £158 million loan provided by Sport England to support clubs during the pandemic, noting the favourable terms but expressing worries about the long-term sustainability of professional rugby union. He also highlights the importance of grassroots rugby and the need for better facilities and access to sports for women and girls."]
Specific Asks
["Morello asks the Government to provide more targeted investment in grassroots rugby, especially in deprived communities, and to guarantee stable, multi-year funding for school sports. He calls for the implementation of the new school sports partnerships and the national enrichment framework, and for the Government to support the development of rugby in state schools. Mr Morello asks the government to commit to meeting with the appropriate Minister to address the financial stability of rugby clubs and to ensure that the RFU's governance structures support the long-term sustainability of the sport."]
Independent Water Commission: Final Report
10 February 2026
Responding: Emma Hardy
Main Concerns
["The public's confidence in the water sector has been severely damaged by years of sewage pollution, poor decision-making, lack of regulation, and a business model that rewards failure. In West Dorset alone, there were 4,200 sewage spills and nearly 49,000 hours of raw sewage discharge from storm overflows in 2024. The River Lim is ecologically dead, rare chalk streams are under severe pressure, and Atlantic salmon populations are threatened. Tourism worth £322 million annually and supporting over 5,000 jobs is at risk due to poor water quality."]
Specific Asks
['The Government must address the scale of the crisis by ensuring clear standards for river health, mandatory testing, visible ratings, and robust enforcement of existing environmental law. The new integrated regulator proposed in the White Paper must have teeth and be properly resourced. Water companies should be redesigned with public benefit as their core purpose.']
Official Development Assistance Reductions
04 November 2025
Responding: Seema Malhotra
Main Concerns
["The planned reductions in official development assistance have left the UK's aid budget at its lowest level since this century, reducing it from 0.7% to a proposed 0.3% of GNI by 2027. This comes amid rising global need, with over 123 million people displaced and millions more facing severe hunger or food insecurity in countries like Sudan and Gaza."]
Specific Asks
['The UK must maintain its leadership role in aid to prevent conflict and instability, invest in long-term security by funding conflict prevention rather than withdrawing from it, and ensure that the money is spent on preventing displacement instead of treating its effects.']
Full name of the bill being debated - Which clause or amendment is being debated
10 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The reasoned amendment tabled by the official Opposition has been selected. The amendment aims to introduce significant changes to the bill to address issues related to [specific issue], highlighting ...
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Health and Care Bill - Schedule 1
07 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. This amendment aims to confer primary care functions on integrated care boards, thereby ensuring better coordination and integration of health ser...
Bluetongue Virus in Livestock
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Greenhouse Gas Removals Sector
08 July 2026
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
The Member highlights the urgency of climate change and the importance of greenhouse gas removals beyond carbon capture and storage. He argues for a commitment to engineered solutions like direct air ...
Estimates Day
29 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy has highlighted areas needing improvement in national security, including critical infrastructure protection and defence against hybrid warfare. T...
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
23 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The DVLA is not fit for purpose in how it delivers its responsibilities, particularly regarding medical driving licences. Last year alone, the agency issued over 12 million driving licences and handle...
Peter Mandelson: Government Appointment
21 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Fire Station Closures
12 March 2026
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
Brian Mathew thanked the hon. Member and paid tribute to the bravery of firefighters. He mentioned the closure of eight fire stations across Dorset and Wiltshire, impacting 100 firefighting staff and ...
China: Foreign Interference Arrests
04 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
64.3%
63 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
48
49.0% of votes
No Votes
15
15.3% of votes
Abstentions
35
35.7% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
1
PMQs Asked
42
Ministerial Questions Asked
70
House of Commons Debates Involved
5
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-73% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+213% above average
This MP:
42
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+99% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1340% above average
This MP:
70
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-7% below average
This MP:
64.3
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Edward Morello's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.