Fleur Anderson
MP for Putney
Lab
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
This morning, a mature street tree fell on my house. No one was hurt, but it is another reminder of the results of this extreme heat that we face. Today is the hottest June day ever on record. Extreme heat and flooding are becoming more normal, and the Government need to stay ahead of that in respect of our homes, our workplaces and our farming. As the chair of the all-party parliamentary group for the environment, I am conducting an inquiry into Government preparedness. Will the Prime Minister tell the country what actions he is taking to step up our resilience?
Context
The UK is experiencing the hottest June day ever on record. Extreme heat and flooding are becoming more normal, affecting homes, workplaces, and farming.
Keir Starmer
It is clear that severe heatwaves are evidence that climate change is impacting our country. We have been working to co-ordinate the response, and I urge people to follow the guidance from the UK Health Security Agency. We are making our country more resilient for the future by modernising building regulations so that homes are cooler and better ventilated.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not provide specific actions or commitments in response to extreme weather resilience, focusing instead on general measures.
Hedges
Session: PMQs
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Given the recent challenges to the Equality Act, will the Prime Minister commit to defending laws that prevent workplace discrimination and protect rights regardless of sex, race or disability?
Context
The Equality Act 2010 is under threat. The act prevents workplace discrimination and protects women from pregnancy-based firing.
Keir Starmer
I am proud of the Equality Act, which was passed by the last Labour Government; we will always fight for working people. I also have to raise this: a death threat against my hon. Friend was shared by Reform's deputy council leader in Lancashire.
Assessment
commitment to protecting laws
Condemning A Death Threat
Session: PMQs
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I introduce a private Member’s Bill to ban the sale of wet wipes with plastic in them four years ago. The previous Government dragged their feet, but these wet wipes cause fatbergs in our sewers, put millions of pounds on our water bills for all constituents and pollute rivers and seas. This Government promised to bring in the ban, and they are doing so now. Will the Prime Minister join me in celebrating a Labour promise delivered, and share the message that we should always bin wet wipes and other wipes, not flush them?
Context
Four years ago, a private Member’s Bill was introduced to ban the sale of plastic-containing wet wipes. The previous Government did not implement this quickly enough.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I commend my hon. Friend who has been a long-standing campaigner on this important issue. The public are right to be furious about how the last Government allowed sewage to pour into our lakes, rivers and seas. Alongside tough new powers to combat pollution, this ban will put an end to plastic wet wipes that litter our beaches, clog up our sewers and harm wildlife.
Assessment
Did not explicitly celebrate the Labour promise delivered
Public Fury Over Sewage
New Powers To Combat Pollution
Session: PMQs
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I send my best wishes to the King. The Foreign Secretary said that with allies we will look at recognising a Palestinian state so that Palestinians can see there is going to be irreversible progress towards a two-state solution. It was later clarified that this statement had not been signed off by No. 10. Does the Prime Minister agree with his Foreign Secretary?
Context
The Foreign Secretary recently stated that the UK will look at recognising a Palestinian state to encourage progress towards a two-state solution. However, it was later clarified that this statement had not been approved by No. 10.
Rishi Sunak
Our long-standing position has been that we will recognise a Palestinian state at a time that is most conducive to the peace process. The most important thing is that we are committed to that two-state solution and are working with our allies to bring it about.
Session: PMQs
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Every year, billions of wet wipes go out into our rivers and oceans, and clog up our sewers. I have been campaigning for years to ban plastic in wet wipes. The Government have finally promised to ban plastic in wet wipes, but that was five months ago and there has been nothing since then. Will the Prime Minister today finally give a date for when that ban will come into force and make a difference to our environment, or is this another broken promise from his zombie Government?
Context
Anderson campaigns for a plastic ban on wet wipes due to environmental concerns, and inquires about the delay.
Rishi Sunak
In the comprehensive “Plan for Water” that was published by the Environment Secretary in April, we confirmed our intention to ban wet wipes containing plastic, subject, as is legally proper, to a public consultation. That consultation will be launched in the coming months, in autumn this year, and I know Ministers will keep the House updated on progress.
Assessment
The specific ask about providing a date was not addressed.
Vague Commitment To Launch Consultation
Session: PMQs
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Today's OECD report states that UK inflation will surpass almost all other G20 nations. Families in Putney are worried about this situation. Will the Government commit to introducing a comprehensive windfall tax on oil and gas giants to alleviate pressure on struggling households?
Context
The OECD warned that UK inflation is set to be higher than most G20 countries, impacting households across the country. Labour argues for a proper windfall tax on oil and gas profits.
Oliver Dowden
We introduced a 75% windfall tax last winter, covering half of people's energy bills. The hon. Member missed the OECD's positive growth forecast for UK.
Assessment
The answer did not commit to introducing any further windfall taxes as requested.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister is leading a long queue of Conservative MPs lining up to show how out of touch they are. Bills are rising and people are struggling. A quarter of people in work in Putney earn less than the London living wage. They do not need to be told how to budget better, to learn how to cook or how to buy value food. They are already doing so. When will the Prime Minister get a grip on this crisis and when will he bring in the windfall tax?
Context
The Prime Minister is accused of being out of touch with rising bills.
Boris Johnson
What we are doing for the people of Putney, and indeed the people throughout the country, is making sure that we invest now in protecting them, as I have said to the House and I have said repeatedly, not just with the increases in universal credit, the living wage and the warm home discount and cutting fuel bills, but with the £330 cut in NICs. The reason we can do that is that we have a robust economic position and strong employment. That is giving us the revenue to pay and to cushion people at this difficult time. It would not have been possible if we had listened to the Labour party during covid.
Session: PMQs
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I hope that the Prime Minister will join me in standing together not only in grief at the killing of George Floyd but in determination that we will work together against racism, both in the US and here in the UK. In Putney, black teachers have told me that they are scared of going back to school because of the higher rates of death, and today's figures from the Metropolitan police show that more than a quarter of lockdown fines have been for black people, although they are an eighth of our London population.
Context
Anderson raises concerns about racism, highlighting the killing of George Floyd, higher rates of death among black teachers during the pandemic, and disproportionate lockdown fines affecting London's black population.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
The hon. Lady raises a very important series of points. I certainly condemn the killing of George Floyd, and we will certainly make sure that everything that we export to any country around the world is in accordance with the consolidated guidance on human rights.
Session: PMQs
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What steps she is taking to support high streets in Putney. I welcome all those on the Front Bench to their places, and I welcome back the Secretary of State. I thank the Minister for meeting me to talk about Putney high street. We love our high street in Putney; we want to see it thrive even more, and especially to open up empty shops. Will the Minister give hope to every high street by reviewing and reducing business rates, and by making the high street rental auction zone policy work more effectively by cutting unnecessary red tape and providing councils with the financial support they need to bring vacant properties up to a lettable standard?
Context
The MP is concerned about the vitality of high streets, specifically mentioning Putney.
Jim McMahon
Councils need both the tools and the support to bring vacant properties back into use, which is why we introduced high street rental actions. To make powers as straightforward as possible, we have published guidance and templates and established a dedicated support mechanism for local authorities. We are reviewing new burdens funding to ensure councils are appropriately resourced, and have announced £10 million to tackle long-term vacancies and bring empty units back into productive use. On business rates, this Government are committed to reforming the system to create a fairer approach that fully supports investments and high streets such as my hon. Friend's.
Session: High Streets Putney 2026-09-07
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What steps she is taking to support high streets in Putney. I welcome all those on the Front Bench to their places, and I welcome back the Secretary of State. I thank the Minister for meeting me to talk about Putney high street. We love our high street in Putney; we want to see it thrive even more, and especially to open up empty shops.
Context
The MP is concerned about the vitality of high streets, specifically mentioning Putney.
Jim McMahon
Councils need both the tools and the support to bring vacant properties back into use, which is why we introduced high street rental actions. To make powers as straightforward as possible, we have published guidance and templates and established a dedicated support mechanism for local authorities. We are reviewing new burdens funding to ensure councils are appropriately resourced, and have announced £10 million to tackle long-term vacancies and bring empty units back into productive use. On business rates, this Government are committed to reforming the system to create a fairer approach that fully supports investments and high streets such as my hon. Friend's.
Session: High Streets Putney 2026-09-07
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Does the Secretary of State agree that the Government now have a responsibility to put in place legislation that delivers justice for victims and survivors of the troubles and upholds the special duty of care to veterans?
Context
The Supreme Court found in favor of the government, reinforcing its position on delivering justice.
Hilary Benn
I do indeed agree with my hon. Friend—that is exactly what the troubles Bill will do. It is essential to build confidence across all communities, which the legacy Act failed to do, to put in place protections for our veterans and to enable all families who are seeking answers to request information through a reformed legacy commission.
Session: Supreme Court Dillon Judgment Policy Implications
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Despite aid budget cuts, will the Minister assure the House that support for the women victims of sexual violence in the conflict in Sudan will not be cut?
Context
Millions of people, including thousands of women affected by horrific sexual violence, are impacted by the conflict in Sudan.
Chris Elmore (The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
I know what a hugely important issue this is to all Members across the House. I can confirm that additional funding has been allocated in relation to the Sudan conflict. We are calling for the violence to end, particularly the violence targeted at women and girls. Part of this continuing funding is for trying to tackle the extreme levels of sexual violence that women are experiencing in Sudan.
Session: Official Development Assistance
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I welcome the Minister’s support for the international baccalaureate. Ashcroft technology academy in my constituency runs a successful IB programme. Will he confirm that this programme can still be studied and that pupils can choose to study the International Baccalaureate at Ashcroft academy?
Context
Ashcroft technology academy in Putney runs a successful International Baccalaureate programme. The school is seeking confirmation that the programme will continue to be funded.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
I can confirm that changes will mean the International Baccalaureate can still be studied. We are providing funding for 16-to-19 provision so sixth-form colleges can make those decisions.
Session: International Baccalaureate
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We welcome devolution in London, but the ability of local councils like mine in Wandsworth to tackle growth could be undermined by the changes proposed in the fair funding review. In Wandsworth, 26% of residents and 33% of children live in poverty after housing costs. Will the Minister consider making adjustments to the proposed funding formula to properly account for housing and children’s services and ensure that no council is worse off as a result of the review?
Context
In Wandsworth, a significant percentage of residents live in poverty after housing costs. The council is concerned about the changes proposed in the fair funding review.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Miatta Fahnbulleh)
We have consulted on the fair funding review. My colleague the Minister for Local Government and Homelessness is looking at proposals at the moment, and we will report back in due course.
Session: Devolution Impact on Economic Growth
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I welcome the Under-Secretary of State for Transport, my hon. Friend the Member for Wakefield and Rothwell (Simon Lightwood), holding the first Hammersmith bridge taskforce meeting. When will the next one be held?
Context
The MP welcomed the first Hammersmith bridge taskforce meeting and inquired about future meetings.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
I am very aware of the problems relating to Hammersmith bridge, and I know the Minister hosted that first meeting of the resurrected Hammersmith bridge taskforce. We announced in the spending review a structures fund, to assist local authorities with repairs to bridges and tunnels that are beyond their financial capacity to fund. We will set out the criteria for access to that fund in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Justice Secretary received a letter highlighting dreadful conditions in Wandsworth Prison. Will he take urgent steps to end overcrowding?
Context
The chief inspector of prisons highlighted the poor conditions in Wandsworth Prison, noting high overcrowding.
Alex Chalk
Wandsworth's full complement of officers is not delivering the regime it should, with a high remand population. We are investing heavily and deploying extra staff.
Session: Topical Questions
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What recent discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on the expansion of integrated education in Northern Ireland.
Context
The Government have made funds available for schools converting to integrated status, and the Minister has expressed readiness to engage with the new Education Minister.
Steven Baker
The Government remain committed to supporting integrated education in Northern Ireland and have already made funds available to support more schools than ever to convert to integrated status. I and my noble Friend Lord Caine look forward to engaging with the new Education Minister, Paul Givan, to make progress on this important issue.
Session: Integrated Education Northern Ireland
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Does the Minister not agree that there was ample time to implement necessary improvements and that delays have caused immense suffering? Ministers first promised to end no-fault evictions five years ago. Since then, 85,000 households have been threatened with eviction notices in Putney alone.
Context
Since ministers first promised to end no-fault evictions five years ago, 85,000 households have faced threats of eviction.
Jacob Young
I agree that we need to abolish section 21 evictions as soon as possible. The White Paper was published in 2022, the Bill in 2023, and Report stage is on Wednesday.
Session: Private Rented Sector
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What steps is the government taking to reform the private rented sector? Ministers first promised to end no-fault evictions five years ago. Since then, 85,000 households have been threatened with no-fault evictions, including a constant stream in Putney. Does the Minister not agree that there was ample time to implement improvements and that delay has caused immense suffering?
Context
Ministers have promised to end no-fault evictions for five years. Since then, 85,000 households have faced threats of eviction.
Jacob Young
We are abolishing section 21 evictions. The Renters (Reform) Bill will have its Report stage on Wednesday 24 April, moving to a system of periodic tenancies and introducing a private rented sector property portal and ombudsman.
Session: Private Rented Sector
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With the Government's commitment to tackling religious hatred and hate crime, will the Minister commit to restarting the anti-Muslim hatred working group and bringing forward a new hate crime strategy?
Context
There has been an increase in antisemitism and Islamophobia, with the anti-Muslim hatred working group suspended since March 2020.
Felicity Buchan
We will appoint a new adviser on anti-Muslim hatred. We are engaging with the Muslim community at senior levels. The Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities have recently met Tell MAMA.
Session: Faith-based Discrimination and Harassment
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There has been an appalling surge of antisemitism and Islamophobia in recent months, but the anti-Muslim hatred working group has been suspended since March 2020, and the hate crime strategy is four years old; we clearly need a new one to tackle the hate crime in our communities. Will the Minister commit to restarting the anti-Muslim hatred working group and bringing forward a new hate crime strategy?
Context
There has been a surge of antisemitism and Islamophobia recently, with the anti-Muslim hatred working group suspended since March 2020. The hate crime strategy is also four years old.
Felicity Buchan
We will appoint a new adviser on anti-Muslim hatred. We are engaging with the Muslim community at senior levels. The Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities have recently met Tell MAMA, which plays a very important role in tackling hate crime.
Session: Faith-based Discrimination and Harassment
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There is still no ban on plastic in wet wipes. Will the Minister protect nature by banning plastic now?
Context
The Government promised to ban plastic in wet wipes nearly a year ago, but there is still no ban.
Steve Barclay
I am extremely keen to get the ban delivered, and hope to have something to announce very soon.
Session: Topical Questions
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While the world looks the other way, Sudan is suffering from a catastrophe, with 8 million people displaced, 15 million without healthcare whatsoever, and 24 million going hungry. What efforts are being made to advocate for additional crossing points for aid to get into Chad and South Sudan and across conflict lines?
Context
8 million people in Sudan are displaced, with 15 million having no healthcare and 24 million facing hunger. Aid is not reaching many areas due to conflict.
Andrew Mitchell
Yes, I do expect to attend that conference. I speak regularly to counterparts in the African Union, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, and spoke last night to Tom Perriello, the new US special envoy for Sudan. We work very closely with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the Troika. We understand that the violence in Darfur bears all the hallmarks of ethnic cleansing and are funding an open-source organisation, the Centre for Information Resilience, to keep account of those events.
Session: Topical Questions
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Too many children are hospitalised because there is mould in their rented homes. Will the Minister consider supporting my Bill to extend Awaab's law and ensure private landlords fix mould issues?
Context
Children in the constituency are hospitalised due to mould in their rented homes. A proposed bill aims to address this issue for social housing tenants but not private renters.
Jacob Young
I am grateful for discussions on her Bill. The Renters (Reform) Bill introduces a decent homes standard for the private rented sector, and I would be happy to continue discussions.
Session: Property Repairs Recourse for Renters
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Northern Ireland has been receiving less levelling-up funding than other regions, including none in November when power sharing was suspended. Now that power sharing has resumed, will the Government update on discussions to ensure a fair share of funding for Northern Ireland?
Context
According to a Northern Ireland Affairs Committee report, Northern Ireland received less levelling-up funding compared to Scotland, Wales, and England in the first round. In November, no funding was allocated to Northern Ireland because the Executive were not sitting.
Steven Baker
We have made available a generous package of £3.3 billion overall and are having conversations on the detail of repurposed areas of funding. Conversations will continue, and when fuller details can be provided, we will update the House.
Session: Economic Growth
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I welcome the Minister's acknowledgement that more education in prisons means cutting the reoffending rate and that clear link to crime. I welcome the national regime model and will be interested to see how it plays out, because I have seen chronic staff shortages and sickness absence, in particular at prisons such as HMP Wandsworth, which I have visited. Those things mean that prisoners are entirely missing out on any education, training and working opportunities. When will I be able to go back to HMP Wandsworth and see the increase in staff and retention that is needed there?
Context
Concerns over chronic staff shortages and sickness absence affecting prisoner rehabilitation activities.
Edward Argar
Again, I have a lot of respect for the hon. Lady, but I am afraid that what she is suggesting does not entirely reflect the facts. If we compare the figures for 2023 and 2022 for band 3 to 5 prison officers, we see that there are over 1,400 more now, which is an increase of 6.7%. In HMPPS, sick rates are down in the past year, when just over 12,500 people joined and 7,500 left—again, that reflects an increase.
Session: Time Spent in Cells Reoffending Rates
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What assessment he has made of the potential impact of the length of time that prisoners spend in their cells on reoffending rates.?
Context
Discussion about the potential long-term effects of prisoners spending extended periods in their cells, and how it might affect rehabilitation.
Edward Argar
We know that activities such as education and training can help to give prisoners skills that they need to get a job on release, thus reducing the likelihood of reoffending. That is why we launched our new national regime model for prisoners last month. It sets out core expectations for regime delivery, so that prisons are getting the most out of the working day and aiding the rehabilitation of prisoners. Of course, we are also seeing improved staffing numbers to facilitate those regimes.
Session: Time Spent in Cells Reoffending Rates
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Will a new temporary Budget include childcare funding provision if it is debated in the House?
Context
The Melted Parents campaign group speaks for parents across Northern Ireland facing hard times due to cost of living crisis.
Steven Baker
The issue is very important and frequently raised. The Budget will be debated, and it is hoped that we will return to this matter. Emphasis is placed on restoring the Executive in Northern Ireland.
Session: Cost of Living
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The aerial bombardment by Israel of one of the most densely populated regions in the world in Gaza has been devastating. Recent statistics reported in Israel show that 61% of deaths in Gaza have been civilians. When the Prime Minister spoke to the Israeli Prime Minister last week, did he urge him to stop besieging and blockading Gaza, to comply with international law, which must mean being proportionate, and to protect innocent lives?
Context
Recent Israeli military operations in Gaza have led to significant civilian casualties, with 61% of deaths being civilians.
Andrew Mitchell
The hon. Member is right. At the COP, the Prime Minister was able to have meetings with Qatar, Egypt and Jordan, as well as with Israel, and he reiterated the point that he has made publicly before, which is that Israel has the right to self-defence, but it must operate within international humanitarian law.
Session: Israel and Palestine
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Communities are angry about being excluded from the latest round of levelling-up funding. Will the Secretary of State commit to reversing this unjust decision immediately?
Context
The MP expressed community concerns about the exclusion of Northern Ireland from recent rounds of levelling-up funding, questioning the justification for this decision.
Steven Baker
The money will be spent in Northern Ireland. We are keen to work with Northern Ireland Ministers towards a restored Executive for public service reform, noting £700 million allocated through PEACEPLUS.
Session: Public Services Budgetary Constraints
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The Minister's responses are disappointing. If the Government do not recognise the problem of child poverty in this country, how will they fix it? One million children experienced destitution in the UK last year. Organisations such as Chantelle's Community Kitchen, Little Village and Wandsworth Foodbank in my constituency work tirelessly to fill in the gaps, but they say that there is increasing hardship and they are worried about the winter ahead. What impact does the Minister think that crashing the economy and unleashing a cost of living crisis have had on child poverty?
Context
Organisations in Putney report an increasing number of children experiencing destitution and hardship, especially with winter approaching.
Mel Stride
The common theme in all the questions that we have had on this substantive question is a lack of memory as to what happened under the previous Labour Government. Under that Government, we had 1 million more workless households and 680,000 more children in those workless households.
Session: Destitution Children
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Since the Government first promised the Renters (Reform) Bill 4 years ago, over 10,000 Londoners have faced eviction threats. When will the Government bring in the Bill?
Context
The Government promised the Renters (Reform) Bill four years ago, but it hasn't been introduced yet.
Michael Gove
That is a good question; we will be bringing forward our legislation shortly.
Session: Topical Questions
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Early years services are vital for children to reach their potential, but they are underfunded and at risk in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK without a childcare strategy. According to the Department for Education, it was delayed again because early years faces potential significant budget reductions. When can hard-pressed families in Northern Ireland expect the childcare strategy? Will the Minister commit to early years services receiving the increased multi-year funding that is needed to invest in children?
Context
Early years services in Northern Ireland are underfunded, with no childcare strategy in place. The Department for Education has delayed the strategy due to potential budget cuts.
Steven Baker
I am glad to welcome the hon. Lady to her place. As she knows, education is devolved in Northern Ireland and it is a matter for the Education Department there to take these decisions, but her point is well made, and I am confident that, when she makes her first visit to Northern Ireland, like me she will be engaging with all parties on just such issues.
Session: Public Finances
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Mortgage and rental costs are soaring in my constituency. The Government claims it's all due to global shocks or the war in Ukraine but data shows higher UK lending rates compared to Germany, Italy or France. Will the Minister finally concede that this difference is because of the disastrous growth plan and mini-Budget last year?
Context
The questioner highlights the rise in mortgage and associated rental costs in Putney, Roehampton and Southfields. She questions whether this is due to the Government's policies or global economic factors.
Andrew Griffith
Hon. Lady's constituents will benefit from mortgage interest support and double number of mortgage products now compared to October 2022. Repeats comment: if worried about constituents, best way is to do away with Mayor's ULEZ tax.
Session: Growth Plan Mortgage Interest Rates
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What recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of the growth plan on mortgage interest rates? Mortgage and rental costs are soaring in Putney, Roehampton and Southfields. The Government claims it's due to global shocks or Ukraine war but data shows higher UK lending rates compared to Germany, Italy or France. Is this difference because those countries did not have the devastating growth plan or mini-Budget last year?
Context
The question arises from concerns over rising mortgage costs in Putney, Roehampton and Southfields. The latest Bank of England data indicates that UK lending rates for home purchases remain higher than those in Germany, Italy or France.
Andrew Griffith
High inflation from Putin's invasion saw interest rates increase across most western economies. Path to lower rates is through low inflation, which is why halving inflation is one priority for this year. Pleased that latest Bank of England forecast shows we are on track.
Session: Growth Plan Mortgage Interest Rates
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We will keep asking. I am glad that the Paymaster General mentioned emergency response exercises, which are essential for learning the lessons from covid and for being ready for whatever disaster comes next. As the senior Minister for resilience, among many other things, will the Paymaster General tell us how many exercises have been carried out locally and nationally in the last year? Is he ensuring that lessons are learned, changes are made and good practice is shared to make all our communities safe?
Context
The Labour MP questioned the government's commitment to learning from emergency exercises and ensuring that changes are made based on these lessons.
Jeremy Quin
Exercises take place locally and nationally. The exercise involving the use of the emergency alert system for the first time ever, to ensure that we have that important pillar in our response, illustrates how seriously we take these issues. We will continue to undertake exercises to ensure that we are as prepared as anyone ever can be for the circumstances that we can plan for and try to project.
Session: Covid-19 Inquiry
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The east African wet rains and the pledging conference have both come, but the food crisis is worsening. Just three weeks ago, the Government announced a further cut in aid to the region. Local organisations need more funding than most, so will the Minister set targets to increase funding to local organisations for adapting to climate change in the region and to diversify livelihoods to support vulnerable communities?
Context
Following the east African wet rains and a recent pledging conference, there is ongoing concern about the worsening food crisis.
Andrew Mitchell
The hon. Lady is right about the importance of localism and localisation. I should make it clear to her that Britain's pledge was £143 million—that will have an enormous effect. She should also bear in mind that we have a degree of flex when it comes to humanitarian budgets, and we have announced for next year that Britain—the British taxpayer—will be spending £1,000 million on humanitarian relief.
Session: Hunger East Africa
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How many of the action points laid out in the December publication have been achieved?
Context
There are concerns about the pace of implementation of action points in the infrastructure resilience framework.
Oliver Dowden
As the hon. Lady will know, we continue to make considerable progress on all the actions set out in that framework. She is right to highlight challenges, particularly around cyber-resilience; hence, I am conducting a programme stepping up our cyber-resilience.
Session: National Resilience
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Consultant spending is spiralling, costs twice as much as civil servants, with the Cabinet Office and Treasury being major offenders. Will the Minister commit to cutting unnecessary consultant spending and ensuring proper public reporting?
Context
Government spending on consultants is spiralling out of control, particularly in the Cabinet Office and Treasury. There are concerns about lack of public reporting.
Jeremy Quin
We ensure no consultant is ever employed where they are not needed. We focus on value for money, driving down costs and securing efficiency savings. However, the government will continue to use propositions that represent best value.
Session: Civil Service External Consultants
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Why does the Minister believe that having new standards in the plan, but no new legislative underpinning, will deliver better outcomes? The legislation has not succeeded due to lack of funding and links to social care services.
Context
The MP inquired about the lack of funding or link-up to social care services as a major barrier to providing necessary care for children with special educational needs.
Claire Coutinho
One thing that we have tried to do in the reforms is get under the bonnet and find out why local authorities are struggling to deliver. We published the strategy in tandem with the Department of Health and Social Care, which is critical for achieving outcomes.
Session: Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
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What steps she is taking to help improve support for children with special educational needs and disabilities and their families. The Children and Families Act 2014 sets out national standards in legislation but has not succeeded in delivering appropriate support due to lack of funding and link-up to social care services.
Context
The MP asked about the steps to improve support for children with special educational needs and disabilities, focusing on ensuring they receive appropriate education and care.
Claire Coutinho
One thing that we have tried to do in the reforms is get under the bonnet and find out why local authorities are struggling to deliver. We are setting out a specialist workforce strategy and looking at initial teacher training to ensure early identification and addressing of needs. The legislation published in tandem with the Department of Health and Social Care ensures critical support.
Session: Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
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We all know how distressing it was for the relatives of people who died from covid to read the former Health Secretary's leaked WhatsApp messages. There were some dreadful revelations about life and death decisions that were made, and about how they were made. The outcomes of the covid inquiry will be vital for learning lessons to strengthen national resilience—there could be another pandemic tomorrow. Will the Secretary of State confirm that all evidence from Ministers and former Ministers held on official channels, private emails and WhatsApps has been provided to the independent covid inquiry so that no more delays are caused by the Government?
Context
The MP is concerned about the transparency of evidence provided to the independent covid inquiry, especially regarding leaked messages that revealed disturbing decisions.
Oliver Dowden
I can give the hon. Lady that assurance. There has been total and full transparency from Government, as we are required to do under the terms of the Act and the relevant legislation.
Session: National Resilience
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Are the Government working with NATO allies to set up a full 2023 action plan for Ukraine specifically—for military, economic, diplomatic and humanitarian support?
Context
NATO allies need to work on military, economic, diplomatic and humanitarian support for Ukraine.
James Heappey
NATO is not directly involved in the planning or support of Ukraine's war effort. However, NATO supports the work being done by friends of Ukraine and will strengthen its eastern flank to provide deterrence against any escalation.
Session: Ukraine NATO Allies
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There is huge support for banning plastic in wet wipes from hon. Members on both sides of the House, retailers, producers and water companies. The Government's consultation on the issue ended more than a year ago, but it was not included in the recent plastic announcements—the Government's action on the issue is so slow.
Context
The question addresses public support and previous consultation on banning plastic in wet wipes, criticising the government's slow action.
Rebecca Pow
We are still analysing the responses to the call for evidence. Great care has to be taken when considering something flushable, even if it does not have plastic in it—where does it go, where does it end up and what happens to it? I urge people not to flush things down the loo because that is how we get blockages and fatbergs.
Session: Plastic Pollution
View All Questions -->
What recent steps she is taking to help tackle plastic pollution. There is huge support for banning plastic in wet wipes from hon. Members on both sides of the House, retailers, producers and water companies. The Government's consultation on the issue ended more than a year ago, but it was not included in the recent plastic announcements—the Government's action on the issue is so slow.
Context
The question addresses the government's steps to tackle plastic pollution, referencing recent initiatives and public support for specific bans.
Rebecca Pow
We are still analysing the responses to the call for evidence. Great care has to be taken when considering something flushable, even if it does not have plastic in it—where does it go, where does it end up and what happens to it? I urge people not to flush things down the loo because that is how we get blockages and fatbergs.
Session: Plastic Pollution
View All Questions -->
What will be done to tackle the chumocracy around the Prime Minister? Is it time for an independent integrity and ethics commission?
Context
A conflict of interest was identified in the process for appointing Richard Sharp at the BBC, raising questions about transparency and integrity.
Oliver Dowden
The appointment to which referred was made through a clear and transparent process with independent selectors choosing Richard Sharp. The Government stands by this excellent appointment, and he is doing an excellent job as BBC chairman.
Session: Ministerial Code
View All Questions -->
When will the Government update the list of Ministers' interests? Does the Minister agree that there should be full transparency?
Context
The list of Ministers' interests on the website is outdated and inaccurate, raising concerns about transparency.
Oliver Dowden
The Prime Minister has appointed an independent adviser to look into Ministers' interests. Before May, they will be fully published in accordance with rules.
Session: Ministerial Code
View All Questions -->
According to research from the Law Centres Network's recent pension credit report, nearly 60% of respondents said that they waited between three and six months for claims to be processed. A constituent of mine has been waiting six months and losing out during that time. Will the Minister address the Pension Service's processing failure and take steps to bring the average time it takes to deal with claims for pension credit down to the target time of six weeks?
Context
Research indicates long delays in processing Pension Credit claims, impacting many pensioners.
Laura Trott
Concerned about delays; due to doubled number of claims in 2022. Expect normal waiting times by February. Will report back on progress.
Session: Pension Credit
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Hammersmith Bridge
21 April 2026
Responding: Simon Lightwood
Main Concerns
["It is a national disgrace that Hammersmith bridge has been closed for seven years. The closure affects around 22,000 vehicles daily and leads to severe congestion in Putney with an increase of 16% in motor vehicle numbers between 2020 and 2023. Bus services have also been affected, leading to increased delays and overcrowding. Residents, especially those in Roehampton, face longer journeys and unreliability; for example, a resident's son missed critical medical appointments due to the closure."]
Specific Asks
['The Minister must provide concrete actions taken since the last taskforce meeting in January 2025. The Foster and Partners and COWI option should be assessed with a current cost estimate of fully restoring Hammersmith bridge. A decision on transferring responsibility for all bridges to one London body needs assessment, and an application under the structures fund must be made.']
Wet Wipes: Plastic Ban
29 October 2025
Responding: Emma Hardy
Main Concerns
['Microplastics from wet wipes pollute rivers, lakes and oceans; cause internal injuries and leach harmful chemicals. In Thames Water area alone, £40.7 million is spent annually on clearing blockages caused by wet wipes. There are also issues with sewer blockages in Beckenham and Penge.']
Specific Asks
["Asks for the lead-in time to be cut from 18 months to 12 months to align England and Scotland with Wales; mandatory 'Do not flush' labels on all wipes; consideration of making manufacturers contribute to costs through an extended product responsibility scheme."]
Knife Crime Awareness Week
21 May 2024
Main Concerns
["Since 2015, knife crime has risen by a staggering 80%, with nearly 50,000 police-recorded offences involving knives or sharp instruments in England and Wales in 2023. Tragically, there were 244 murders involving knives or sharp objects in the same period, including 78 young people aged under 25 and 10 under 16. The government's response has been inadequate with insufficient measures to divert young people from violence and crime."]
Specific Asks
['Labour will extend bans on dangerous weapons like ninja swords, establish an end-to-end review of online knife sales, and introduce a new youth programme costing up to £100 million per year. Labour also calls for tough consequences for carrying knives and sanctions against tech executives who allow knife sales.']
Heathrow Airport Expansion
24 May 2023
Responding: Jesse Norman
Main Concerns
["Residents across south-west London and the country are strongly opposed to Heathrow expansion due to increased carbon emissions, air quality issues, noise pollution, and congestion. The planned expansion would result in an additional 260,000 flights a year, a site size of 950 acres, and 43,000 car park spaces. These changes are incompatible with the UK's climate targets as Heathrow is already the largest single polluter, emitting half of all aviation emissions in the UK. The expansion would also undermine regional jobs and economic growth."]
Specific Asks
["The Government should review and amend the airport's national policy statement to ensure it aligns with climate targets. They must publish a strategy on managing and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from aviation over decades, as well as provide clear safeguards on air quality for residents in affected areas."]
Decarbonising Aviation — [Sir Gary Streeter in the Chair]
21 September 2021
Responding: Robert Courts
Main Concerns
['Ms Anderson expressed concern about the lack of concrete policy measures to decarbonise aviation. She highlighted that sustainable aviation fuel production is still less than 1% of overall jet fuel supply, despite being considered a solution for decarbonisation. Additionally, she pointed out that expanding Heathrow would result in significant additional carbon emissions and non-CO2 impacts on the climate.']
Specific Asks
['Ms Anderson asked the Minister to provide a plan B if technological breakthroughs do not materialise as expected. She also questioned why the Department for Transport refuses to disincentivise frequent business travel by plane and make train journeys easier, quicker and cheaper than short flights.']
[Mr Laurence Robertson in the Chair]
12 January 2021
Responding: Vicky Ford
Main Concerns
['The early years sector has felt like an afterthought during the pandemic. There is a £660 million shortfall in early years funding pre-pandemic, which worsened with inadequate and patchy government support throughout lockdown closures. Funding from councils received by nurseries is based on current occupancy levels instead of pre-covid levels, leading to significant financial losses. Early years settings have not been eligible for small business grants or the schools covid catch-up fund, further exacerbating financial issues.']
Specific Asks
['Will the Government publish the evidence base for nurseries being open and commit to reviewing transmission rates regularly? Will funding be provided for PPE and priority given for lateral flow testing and vaccination for early years staff and childminders? Will maintained nursery schools receive a business rates holiday? A new financial support package is needed.']
Ukraine and Russia
10 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Climate Change
24 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to approve the draft Carbon Budget Order 2026, which was laid before this House on 2 June.
G7 Summit
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Thames Water
16 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Russian Shadow Fleet
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Digital Safety: Children
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Water Companies
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Debate on the Address
13 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Access to GP Appointments
20 March 2024
Residents of Putney, Southfields, Roehampton, and Wandsworth town are petitioning for improved access to GP appointments due to long wait times and difficulties in securing face-to-face appointments, ...
View Full Petition -->
East Putney station
08 June 2023
The petitioners are concerned about the lack of step-free access at East Putney tube station, which has a high footfall of over 6 million passengers annually, making it difficult for individuals with ...
View Full Petition -->
Vaccination of school staff
25 March 2021
The petition addresses the concern that school staff are highly vulnerable to contracting coronavirus, leading to significant staff shortages and school closures. It calls for prioritising the vaccina...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
76.5%
75 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
27
27.6% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
23
23.5% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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 NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
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
8
PMQs Asked
106
Ministerial Questions Asked
181
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
Westminster Hall Debates Led
2
Statements / Bills
3
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
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+691% above average
This MP:
106
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3624% above average
This MP:
181
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-79% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+22% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+11% above average
This MP:
76.5
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 Fleur Anderson's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.