Gareth Snell
MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central
Labour (Co-op)
23 Feb 2017 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Prime Minister's Questions
No PMQs questions found for this MP.
Longton station in my constituency was allocated money from the transforming cities fund to have a lift installed. Unfortunately, that money was reallocated by the city council towards some paving slabs. Can I have a meeting with the Department to look at how we can get funding back for lifts at Longton station and then protect that money so that it cannot be reallocated to other projects?
Context
Longton station was allocated money from the transforming cities fund to install a lift, but this money was reallocated by the city council towards paving slabs.
Heidi Alexander
I would be happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss this issue. One of the key things that we are trying to do is improve public transport nodes, so I would be interested to discuss this matter with him further.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-16
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Titanic Brewery in Stoke-on-Trent makes a fabulous pint. However, tied pubs insist that landlords buy their products, making it difficult for independent breweries. Could the Minister make an announcement on the access to market scheme before the summer recess?
Context
An independent brewery faces market access difficulties due to tied pub arrangements.
Kate Dearden
I thank my hon. Friend for his continued engagement. I was delighted to meet him recently, and I look forward to continuing to engage as the Government consider the evidence ahead of any announcements.
Session: Hospitality Sector 2026-07-02
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What action is being taken by the government to ensure that those pumping out antisemitism and anti-Jewish hatred online are brought to justice quickly?
Context
The issue of online hate-mongering directed at Jewish people and the need for swift action to address this.
Seema Malhotra
The Online Safety Act 2023 has robust provisions to protect people from online abuse. We have ended the era of self-regulation and are enforcing strict legal duties that compel platforms to design out racial hatred and protect users. Active enforcement programmes are under way since March last year.
Session: Antisemitism
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I draw the House's attention to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests: I am a governor at two educational institutions, and I chair the all-party parliamentary group on sixth form education. My question is on access to the apprenticeship register because great companies such as the Spark Group are struggling to get the registration they want in order to grow their offer to young people. They are limited by the £100,000 de minimis for subcontracting but have young people who want to take on the apprenticeships they are offering. Will the Minister set out what this Government might do to change that and agree to meet me and the Spark Group so we can look at ways it can give young people the opportunities they want?
Context
Companies such as the Spark Group in Stoke-on-Trent are struggling to get registered for apprenticeships due to limitations on subcontracting. This is hindering their ability to offer apprenticeships to young people.
Josh MacAlister
My hon. Friend is a fierce champion for apprenticeships and technical education. I am happy to meet him to discuss those matters further. The Minister for Skills, my noble friend Baroness Smith in the other place, has taken a whole series of actions with the Secretary of State to reform our apprenticeship system, opening it up to create tens of thousands of additional opportunities for young people.
Session: Apprenticeships
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What evidence is the Department sharing with the Department for Business and Trade so that it can put in place the trade remedies necessary?
Context
The sanctioned oil and gas from Russia are often used by companies in China and Turkey to manufacture products, which are then sold in the UK. This distorts domestic manufacturing.
Stephen Doughty
My hon. Friend raises an important issue. I would be happy to discuss it further with him, as, I am sure, would colleagues from the Department for Business and Trade.
Session: Russian Oil Sales
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When the Government finally bring in-sourcing to fruition, they will have more purchasing power over services. Can the Minister assure that every penny of taxpayers' money spent using these powers will be spent with British companies and industries?
Context
The MP is concerned about the procurement of services with British companies.
Chris Ward (Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
The Government’s goal is to make Britain its best customer. We are working towards this, and proposals will be published soon.
Session: Government Insourcing
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As the Minister will know, the uptake of T-levels is behind where we expected it to be and where many colleges would like it to be. Given that the Government are still intending to defund BTECs during the current academic year, given that T-levels are not having the uptake that they should have and given that V-levels are not coming on track until 7 October 2027, is the Minister confident that every young person will have access to a relevant course this September, and if not, what can he do about it? Will he consider pausing the defunding of BTECs until such time as V-levels come online?
Context
The uptake of T-levels is behind expectations, and the Government plans to defund BTECs during the current academic year. V-levels are not scheduled to be available until 2027.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
I thank the hon. Member for his leadership on these issues through the all-party parliamentary group on sixth form education, and for his local leadership as a constituency MP. I can reassure him that we will manage the transition carefully as these changes are introduced. We stand behind T-levels, which are a good option for many students, and we want to see the numbers increase. We have run a consultation which has now closed, and we are analysing the responses to ensure that all students experience a smooth transition.
Session: A-level and T-level Enrolments
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What steps his Department is taking to help support house building in Stoke-on-Trent? Stoke-on-Trent has benefited from money from the brownfield regeneration fund. However, there are many brownfield sites across the city that could be used for local planning development, but the owners are simply not engaging with the process. Given that we are not in a mayoral combined authority, compulsory purchase powers are limited. Will the Minister consider devolving those powers to authorities like Stoke? If not, will he consider allowing interim development corporations, until such time as we have a mayor in place?
Context
Stoke-on-Trent has benefited from the brownfield regeneration fund but faces challenges with under-engaged site owners and limited compulsory purchase powers. The city is not part of a mayoral combined authority, which restricts its ability to take action.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
My hon. Friend is a doughty champion for his constituency, and he continues to make a powerful case for the renewal of Hanley city centre as the commercial heart of north Staffordshire. I have had a series of constructive meetings with him and other local leaders about the Hanley masterplan. I know he will welcome the £8 million of investment in Burslem town centre, delivering 800 homes. I am more than happy to continue the conversation with him about the possibility of a new locally led development corporation to take forward the regeneration of the city centre.
Session: House Building Stoke-on-Trent
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The UK ceramics sector is one of the most gas and electricity-intensive industries in the UK, so I make my usual plea to the Minister to consider changes to the supercharger scheme ahead of the British industrial competitiveness scheme coming online. Will he also give some thought to the electrification process? There are parts of the ceramics sector that would like to electrify, but the industrial grid capacity simply does not exist yet. What will the Government do to allow those companies to move forward with electrification, which ultimately will help to bring down their energy bills?
Context
The MP is concerned about the UK ceramics sector, which is among the most gas and electricity-intensive industries in the country.
Chris McDonald
I recognise my hon. Friend’s call for ceramics to be considered under the review of the supercharger scheme, and I have ensured that those calls have been heard within the Department. We want to ensure that ceramics is considered very carefully as part of that. Ceramics UK and other industry representatives continue their commitment to work with me to improve the competitiveness of the industry.
Session: Energy Costs
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Skills England has the potential to really make an impact in places like north Staffordshire, where there are skills that we need for the jobs of tomorrow. However, those programmes are too often piloted through mayoral combined authorities, and we are a long way from that in Staffordshire. How will the Minister ensure that areas that do not have mayors on the horizon can access the same exciting opportunities as everywhere else?
Context
Skills England programmes are being piloted through mayoral combined authorities, and there are concerns that areas without such authorities may miss out on these opportunities.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
I recognise that my hon. Friend takes a keen interest in the delivery of these courses and in various skills training sectors in his constituency. Indeed, I am writing to him today in response to his last question. He is absolutely right that we need to ensure that areas that are further away from the establishment of MCAs are not left behind. That is a valid concern, and I will be certain to share it with my noble Friend the Skills Minister on his behalf.
Session: Skills England
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Because of decisions made by the UK Labour Government, the minimum wage and the living wage will increase, boosting wages for thousands of workers across this country, including 160,000 people in Wales. Could the Secretary of State set out what impact she thinks this critical announcement will have on the economy and people of Wales?
Context
The MP notes that decisions made by the UK Labour Government will increase the minimum wage and living wage.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
From April, a full-time worker on the national living wage will see their annual pay rise by £900, on top of the £1,400 increase that we announced in the previous Budget, and 18 to 20-year-olds working full time on the national minimum wage will get an annual increase of £1,500, which, when added to last year’s increase of £2,500, means £4,000 extra a year. This Labour Government are supporting the lowest-paid workers across the country, with 2.7 million workers in Stoke-on-Trent Central, Cardiff East and every other constituency directly benefiting.
Session: Economic Growth
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I draw the House’s attention to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests as a governor of the City of Stoke-on-Trent sixth-form college. The Minister will know that the further education sector welcomes V-levels to fill the gap between T-levels and A-levels, but he will also know that the Department is continuing with a programme of defunding some existing BTECs before the V-levels come online, meaning that some young people will be denied the opportunity of the right course for them during their FE career. Will he seriously consider freezing the defunding programme until V-levels are online, so that we protect student choice for students now and in the future?
Context
The further education sector welcomes V-levels to fill the gap between T-levels and A-levels, but concerns have been raised that defunding of existing BTECs could mean young people are denied opportunities for appropriate courses before V-levels become available.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important issue, and I will be happy to ask my noble Friend in the other place to meet him. The qualifications that we are defunding are large qualifications that directly overlap with T-levels. The Government’s policy is very clearly to back T-levels as a good choice for students in colleges.
Session: Post-16 Vocational Qualifications
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I welcome the words from my right hon. Friend on the covid memorial response. May I encourage him to hold a statement today so that this House can remember the names and lives of those who are lost, and explore with the relevant Minister how aspirations set out today can be translated into memorials across the country?
Context
The hon. Member welcomes the words from the Leader of the House about a covid memorial response and suggests holding a statement or debate to remember those lost during the pandemic.
Alan Campbell
I think we should go one stage further and have a debate, perhaps through Backbench Business or an Adjournment debate, so that not only can a Minister explain what has been announced, but Members can raise relevant constituency cases to remember the dark days.
Session: Business of the House
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To make steel in this country, we need ceramics. To build houses in this country, we need ceramics. Five of the eight industrial strategy growth sectors require ceramics. Ahead of the launch of the British industrial competitiveness scheme, might there be any interim relief from energy prices for energy-intensive industries?
Context
The ceramic industry in Stoke-on-Trent is critical to steel production and housing construction.
Chris McDonald
My hon. Friend is a fantastic champion for ceramics. This is only my second time at the Dispatch Box, but it is also the second time that he has asked me about this. He and I have already met to discuss it, and I am happy to have further conversations with him and industry about everything we can do, as soon as possible, to support the sector with its energy costs.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps the Commission is taking to increase the use of British-made ceramics by the House of Commons. May I thank you, Mr Speaker, for your leadership on this? The exquisite Speaker’s House collection that you personally commissioned is made proudly in Stoke-on-Trent by Duchess China. It is reasonably priced and available in time for Christmas. This place is a great showcase for British talent and skills. Although I accept my hon. Friend’s answer, there is more that we can do. Through him, I encourage the Commission to ensure that whenever a tender is offered for crockery, giftware or tableware in this place, it looks not just at value for money but at the social value of supporting British manufacturers wherever possible.
Context
The MP noted that a significant portion of crockery used in Parliament is sourced from abroad and questioned whether more could be done to support British manufacturers.
Nick Smith (House Administration)
The House Administration sources a wide range of crockery from firms in the UK, as well as those based elsewhere. Where possible, Parliament endeavours to purchase British goods to support domestic supply chains. All purchasing is in line with the relevant legislation for public bodies, which prioritises value for money. Some 85% of crockery purchased in the past two years has been from British manufacturers. It pleases me when I see my hon. Friend turning his plate or mug upside down in the Tea Room, to double-check whether the crockery was made in Stoke. Where possible and appropriate, and in accordance with procurement law, Parliament will endeavour to purchase British goods and support our domestic supply chains.
Session: British-made Ceramics
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What assessment has the Minister made of the potential impact of his Department’s net zero policies on the manufacturing industry? My hon. Friend raises an important point about the scope of the supercharger, which we are going to look at in 026. He will be aware that some parts of the ceramics supply chain can access the supercharger, but I too am concerned about the impacts of high energy costs on the ceramics sector.
Context
The MP referenced the work done with the ceramic sector and highlighted the challenges faced by energy-intensive industries due to high international gas market costs.
Chris McDonald
My hon. Friend raises an important point about the scope of the supercharger, which we are going to look at in 2026. He will be aware that some parts of the ceramics supply chain can access the supercharger, but I too am concerned about the impacts of high energy costs on the ceramics sector. I will meet the head of Ceramics UK this month, I am chairing a meeting of the Energy Intensive Users Group, and I look forward to further engagement with the sector in the new year.
Session: Net Zero Impact on Manufacturing
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My constituency of Stoke-on-Trent Central has some of the deepest ingrained health inequalities anywhere in the country. My constituents are just as deserving of first-class healthcare as anyone else, so can the Secretary of State set out how the 10-year health plan will help reduce those health inequalities and ensure that, across Stoke-on-Trent and north Staffordshire, my constituents have the healthy lives they should expect?
Context
The constituency of Stoke-on-Trent Central has significant health inequalities, prompting questions about how the NHS plan will address these issues.
Wes Streeting
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his powerful question, which reminds us of our duty to ensure that all parts of our country get access to high-quality healthcare as a minimum expectation. I am proud that we have put in place an unprecedented £42 billion funding settlement to tackle health inequalities and make progress on reducing them. We are also making great strides through the levelling up agenda, so that every part of this country can benefit from improved opportunities and better services.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps his Department is taking to improve electronic patient record systems in the NHS. The Minister will be aware that my hon. Friend the Member for Stafford (Leigh Ingham) and I have been working on a replacement system for the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust in north Staffordshire, which would improve public and patient experience, and productivity, at those hospitals. Will the Minister meet us so that we can consider how further to unlock that funding to improve productivity and patient experience in good time?
Context
The MP highlighted ongoing work on a replacement system for the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust, aiming to improve public and patient experience.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
I commend my hon. Friend, and our hon. Friend the Member for Stafford (Leigh Ingham), for their diligent work with their trust and local system. Progress is being made on that EPR, which will have huge benefits. I will ensure that he has a clear outline of progress to the final planned operating of the go-live date for that issue. I am happy to meet him.
Session: Electronic Patient Record Systems
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I thank the Minister for her answer; the additional capital available for post-16 providers is very welcome. The City of Stoke-on-Trent sixth-form college is seeing a huge increase in interest around science, healthcare science and computer science —subjects that are mission-critical to the delivery of the Government’s ambitious programme. When will the capital be available so that my sixth form and others around the country can build high-quality learning environments for young learners?
Context
The question arises from the need to support increasing interest in mission-critical subjects at sixth-form colleges.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Janet Daby)
I thank my hon. Friend for mentioning his fantastic City of Stoke-on-Trent sixth-form college. I reassure him and other Members that this Government are committed to ensuring that there is a place in education or training for every 16 to 18-year-old who wants one. Details of the £375 million of capital investment to accommodate additional learners entering the system will be announced in due course.
Session: Sixth-form Colleges Funding
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What discussions has he had with the Northern Ireland Executive on the adequacy of the level of funding for Northern Ireland in the spending review 2025? Whether it is Stoke-on-Trent in the west midlands or proud communities in Northern Ireland, the spending review anticipates helping to create good jobs and industrial improvement. Will the Secretary of State set out how the spending review will help to improve the industrial base in Northern Ireland?
Context
Interest in how the spending review will support industrial improvement and job creation in Northern Ireland, similar to other regions like Stoke-on-Trent.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
The spending review gives the Northern Ireland Executive more funds to disperse as they see fit. It comes alongside the publication of the industrial strategy, the funds that the Government are making available and the £30 million that will come to Northern Ireland through UK Research and Innovation. There is funding available and there is great wealth, talent and potential in Northern Ireland to make the best use of it.
Session: Spending Review Northern Ireland Executive
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The North Staffordshire Tri Service and Veterans Support Centre does a wonderful job supporting veterans across Stoke-on-Trent, but all too often, it finds that the military covenant is not working for them. In Stoke-on-Trent in particular, it seems to be failing. What action are this Government taking to ensure that the covenant is worth the paper it is printed on in cities like mine?
Context
Concern about the effectiveness of the military covenant in providing adequate support to veterans, especially in urban areas like Stoke-on-Trent.
Al Carns
I highlight that the Prime Minister has made an announcement about broadening responsibility for the covenant, and the duty of care that it will deliver, from three Government Departments to 14. It will now be for other Departments to ensure that the duty is adhered to across all local councils.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is welcome news that MOD is committed to the establishment of a defence exports office. Will the Minister set out what this will mean at home for jobs in constituencies such as mine in Stoke-on-Trent Central, where our proud manufacturing companies stand ready to support UK defence and security?
Context
The MP inquired about the government's support for defence sector exports, specifically asking how a new national armaments director and defence exports office will impact job creation in his constituency.
The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry (Maria Eagle)
It will mean a coherent specialist approach to Government-to-Government agreements on sales of our capabilities being based in the MOD, which has expertise in those capabilities. This is going to mean extra jobs and growth, and that jobs can continue in the UK beyond the delivery of our own domestic orders because there will be export orders to fulfil. That should reap a defence dividend across the nations and regions of the UK as our manufacturing jobs continue to deliver for defence.
Session: Defence Sector Exports
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What discussions has he had with Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent integrated care board on patient waiting times? I thank the Minister for her answer, and recognise the Herculean effort the Department is making to reduce waiting times, particularly in Stoke-on-Trent, but one cancer patient who is having treatment at the Royal Stoke hospital in my constituency has shared her story with me. From the initial operation, it took six weeks for her to be told that she may have cancerous cells in her lymph node. There was a delay in getting the CT scan, and after the scan, she was told that it would be 10 weeks before she could meet an oncologist to discuss the results. Will the Minister say a bit more about how the Department, while reducing waiting times to access services, will make sure that treatment is given in a timely fashion once someone has a treatment plan?
Context
The MP noted a constituent's experience with significant delays in cancer treatment at the Royal Stoke hospital, highlighting six weeks to receive results after an operation and another 10 weeks before meeting an oncologist.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
I am sorry for the experience that my hon. Friend’s constituent has had, and he highlights a really important aspect of the patient journey through the system. I want him and the House to be assured that we are looking at the entire patient journey, both into hospital and between hospitals. We are determined to improve patient experience and quality of care, and to get back the patient satisfaction that was squandered by the last Government.
Session: Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board Waiting Times
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What steps her Department is taking to help reduce levels of unemployment in Stoke-on-Trent? The Government are making a serious attempt to remove the barriers preventing people with mental health conditions from entering work. I commend the work of the combined healthcare trust in Stoke-on-Trent and its peer support mentors who have overcome mental health challenges and now work with others struggling with their own mental health to build confidence and opportunity.
Context
Unemployment rate in Stoke-on-Trent is 4.7% for working-age people as of September 2024, with significant barriers related to mental health and economic inactivity.
The Minister for Employment (Alison McGovern)
I would love to come to Stoke-on-Trent to see the brilliant work that my hon. Friend has described. I have seen in my own constituency the power of peer mentors for mental health conditions, and this aligns with our strategy to join up health and work support across local areas throughout England.
Session: Unemployment Stoke-on-Trent
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What action are this Government taking to promote the purchasing of British-grown and seasonal produce through their public procurement framework?
Context
The Government are expected to promote the purchasing of British-grown and seasonal produce through their public procurement framework.
Daniel Zeichner
We are absolutely determined to ensure that we see more British produce bought across our public sector. We will come to the House with our plans in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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What assurances can the Minister provide regarding energy-intensive industries such as ceramics in Stoke-on-Trent receiving necessary support during their transition to net zero?
Context
The ceramics industry in Stoke-on-Trent is concerned about benefiting from government investment and transitioning to net zero without being left behind.
Sarah Jones
The hon. Friend makes a good point, and we discussed this in the Tea Room today. I am committed to meeting him first thing next year to discuss challenges facing ceramics industries. We are fully supportive of these sectors.
Session: Topical Questions
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I draw the House's attention to my declared interests: I am the governor of a sixth-form college. I thank the Minister for that answer, but she will know that the certainty that she hopes to give is simply not there. Colleges have had to put off printing prospectuses. They have had open evenings and assemblies for schools at which they have not been able to confirm what they will teach. There are staff allocation issues, and they have even been asked to make projections about T-level funding for T-levels that they are not sure they will have the pupil numbers for, because they do not know which equivalent BTecs will be stood down. They will enter 12025 not knowing what they can teach. Does she think that is acceptable? What support will there be for colleges that will have to turn things around very quickly, whatever the outcome of the review?
Context
Colleges are experiencing significant uncertainty regarding funding and course offerings due to potential changes in qualifications. They face difficulties in planning and providing clear information to students.
Janet Daby
I thank my hon. Friend for really pushing me on this issue, and for explaining the situation so well. I acknowledge to him and the sector the uncertainty and difficulties in this area. Following the election, we moved quickly to pause the defunding that was scheduled for 31 July 2024. I fully appreciate that colleges need time to plan their provision, and that students need time to plan what courses they will take. We are working as quickly as possible to conclude the review, and we will publish the outcomes before the end of the year.
Session: Applied General Qualifications Review
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What progress her Department has made on its review of applied general qualifications?
Context
The question arises from the scheduled removal of funding for level 3 qualifications on July 31, 2025. Colleges are facing uncertainty and difficulties in planning due to this.
Janet Daby
We are making good progress with the review, which focuses on level 3 qualifications scheduled to lose funding in July 2025. We aim to provide certainty to the sector quickly and will publish the outcomes by year-end.
Session: Applied General Qualifications Review
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In Stoke-on-Trent, survivors of rape and sexual assault are supported by Savana which is dependent on funding for its counselling service. Will the Minister confirm when it will receive its settlement figures and give an indication if those figures will be similar to last year's allocations?
Context
Savana, a local charity in Stoke-on-Trent, relies on rape and sexual abuse funding from the police and crime commissioner to support survivors of rape and sexual assault.
Alex Davies-Jones
The Government are providing £41 million of ringfenced funding for ISVAs and IDVAs this financial year. Settlement figures by the police and crime commissioner will be confirmed by the beginning of December, and I would love to visit Savana in Stoke-on-Trent.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Minister will be aware that the dire financial inheritance bequeathed by the last Government means that there is rightly a renewed focus on how we spend public money. Will she tell the House what work she is doing across Government to ensure better use of public money, drive down waste and improve efficiency, in particular with regard to consultants?
Georgia Gould
As the Minister responsible for public service reform, I am clear that every single pound saved on unnecessary consultancy spend is a pound invested in the renewal of our public services and delivering our ambitious missions to change the country. We are taking tough action to cut down on wasteful consultancy spend. We are acting to stop all non-essential Government consultancy spending this year and to halve Government spending on consultancy in future years, with a target saving of £550 million in 2024-25 and £680 million in 2025-26.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Royal Stoke hospital is leading the way when it comes to treatment for stroke patients, but as with so many illnesses, prevention is better than cure. Can the Minister set out what this Government are doing to minimise the number of people affected by these life-altering events?
Context
Royal Stoke hospital is leading in treating stroke patients, but prevention remains key.
Andrew Gwynne
I agree with my hon. Friend, which is why we have set a goal for fewer lives being lost to cardiovascular disease. We will make it easier for people to have checks in the comfort of their own homes through, for example, the digital NHS health check and the new workplace trials.
Session: Topical Questions
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Could I invite the Minister to meet a cross-party group of MPs from the east of England to discuss how the review conducted by the electricity system operator can contribute to energy security and in particular to look at how undergrounding high voltage direct current cables could be cheaper in the long term than pylons?
Context
The MP invited the Minister to meet a cross-party group of MPs from the east of England to discuss energy infrastructure, focusing on undergrounding HVDC cables.
Michael Shanks
I am happy to have meetings on this issue. The evidence suggests that undergrounding is more expensive and can damage nature and habitats more than pylons. We will build necessary infrastructure for reaching net zero targets.
Session: Energy Security
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St Joseph's preparatory school, a small fee-paying independent school in Stoke-on-Trent, announced that it is closing its doors at the end of this year after a period of financial viability questions. What support will the Department offer the city council and parents in Stoke-on-Trent to ensure that those children can still access first-class education?
Context
The MP inquires about the closure of a specific private school, St Joseph's preparatory school, and seeks support from the Department for local authorities and parents.
Stephen Morgan
I thank my hon. Friend for his question and welcome him back to this place. I am aware of the situation at St Joseph's preparatory school. Private schools are responsible for their own finances, but the Department stands ready to assist. The Government are committed to high and rising standards in schools.
Session: Private School Closures
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What information her Department holds on the number of private schools that closed in England between 11 May 2010 and 5 July 2024?
Context
The MP is concerned about the number of private schools closing in Stoke-on-Trent and their impact on local education.
Stephen Morgan
Excluding private special schools, around 50 private schools close each year. Some 1,102 private schools closed between 11 May 2010 and 5 July 2024. The number of pupils in private schools increased in 2023-24, and there has been a net increase of 13 private schools over that period.
Session: Private School Closures
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Can you provide more details on conversations with other Departments to ensure comprehensive support for high streets through various Government policies?
Context
The MP highlighted the need for a cross-Government approach to support high street businesses.
Gareth Thomas
We are working with Treasury and Home Office colleagues on issues such as fairer business rates systems and retail crime reduction.
Session: High Street Businesses
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Town Centres: Stoke-on-Trent
15 January 2025
Responding: Matthew Pennycook
Main Concerns
["The city of Stoke-on-Trent, founded as a city in 1925, has faced significant financial challenges due to the past Government's revenue grant cuts. The town centres are vital for community pride and dignity, yet they have struggled with online shopping competition and economic decisions that affect small businesses. The Hanley city centre, in particular, faces significant challenges."]
Specific Asks
["The debate asks the Minister and his team to address the issues faced by Stoke-on-Trent's town centres and support regeneration efforts for sustainable growth and community development."]
Whistleblowing Protections — [Sir Mark Hendrick in the Chair]
22 October 2024
Responding: Justin Madders
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the lack of protection for individuals who are not formally employed when they blow the whistle on misconduct or dereliction of duty. This includes patients in hospitals, parents, school governors, and contractors who may witness wrongdoing but do not have the legal protections afforded to employees under current laws.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the government to extend protection beyond employment-related contexts and introduce a statutory power to protect whistleblowers from detriment, create an office of the whistleblower, and review the whistleblowing framework to ensure it is comprehensive and effective.']
Creative Industries: Stoke-on-Trent
08 October 2024
Responding: Chris Bryant
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the structural problems in our communities and the need for support to ensure that local creative freelancers can turn their abilities into a viable income. I highlight the growth of the creative industries at around 6.3% and mention several organisations contributing to this growth, including Appetite, B arts, Carse & Waterman, Duchess China 1888, Emma Bailey, i.creation, Junction 15, Keele University, Lesniak Swann, Made in Stoke, New Vic Theatre, Popcorn Learning Agency, Restoke, Susan Clarke, and more. I discuss the importance of collaboration among these organisations to enhance community cohesion and support local economic development.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to visit and meet some of the organisations in Stoke-on-Trent to see first-hand their excellent work. Additionally, I request that he consider recognising north Staffordshire as a cultural cluster, speak to his colleagues at the Department for Business and Trade about incorporating creative industries into any future industrial strategy, and advocate for maintaining art and creative subjects on educational curriculums.']
Economic Growth
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Bill - New Clause 116
02 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I propose New Clause 116 to introduce a cap on donations from overseas contributors to political parties and candidates. This measure is necessary to ensure the integrity of our democratic process and...
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
British Steel
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
National Energy System Operator: Blackout Risk
15 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Immigration and Asylum Bill
13 July 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker has selected the reasoned amendment in the name of the Leader of the Opposition, but no specific opening argument is provided in this excerpt.
British Industry Supercharger: Ceramics
09 July 2026
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
The MP declares his interest as a member of the GMB trade union and chair of the all-party parliamentary group for ceramics. He praises the £120 million support provided by the Business Secretary, whi...
Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester Airport Train Service
02 September 2026
Residents and businesses in Stoke-on-Trent Central are concerned about the lack of a direct train connection to Manchester Airport, which causes delays and inconvenience for travellers and impedes eco...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
87.8%
86 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
33
33.7% of votes
No Votes
53
54.1% of votes
Abstentions
12
12.2% 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
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
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
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
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
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
0
PMQs Asked
35
Ministerial Questions Asked
125
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
1
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+161% above average
This MP:
35
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2472% above average
This MP:
125
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-59% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+27% above average
This MP:
87.8
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 Gareth Snell's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.