Gareth Thomas
MP for Harrow West
Labour (Co-op)
1 May 1997 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Given the substantial investment in improving the NHS that the Government have committed to, will my right hon. and learned Friend the Prime Minister encourage the Health Secretary to support plans for a new intensive care unit at Northwick Park?
Context
The NHS was starved of investment under the Conservatives, particularly at Northwick Park hospital, where staff worked around the clock during covid to look after many constituents.
Keir Starmer
The covid report is a stark reminder of the extraordinary efforts of health workers to keep this country safe. We are delivering record investment and reform that our NHS needs, and while decisions about local infrastructure are made by integrated care boards, I will make sure that my hon. Friend gets a meeting with the Minister to discuss this particular case.
Assessment
Specific encouragement for Health Secretary was not given, only commitment to arrange a meeting
Local Infrastructure Decisions Made By Integrated Care Boards
Session: PMQs
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In only one of the 194 local authority areas in England are NHS ambulances meeting the national response time targets for potential heart attack and stroke victims. Does the Prime Minister know which one it is?
Context
Only one local authority area in England meets the national response time targets for potential heart attack and stroke victims. The question asks if the Prime Minister knows which it is.
Rishi Sunak
Ambulance waiting times in A&E require improvement, but they are worse in Labour-run Wales compared to England. We have 800 more ambulances on the road, faster discharge from care centers and 10,000 virtual ward beds.
Assessment
The specific area was not mentioned
Changed Subject To Wales
Session: PMQs
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According to Sir Patrick Vallance, the current PM did not ask for advice regarding 'eat out to help out.' Who is correct?
Context
The Government's chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, contradicted the Prime Minister's previous statements on taking advice from advisers.
Rishi Sunak
The Government took advice from scientific advisers throughout the crisis, as highlighted in the ongoing inquiry.
Session: PMQs
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Why has the Prime Minister not prioritised an Economic Crime Act despite warnings that dirty money from Russia poses a national security issue?
Context
After the publication of the Russia report, concerns were raised about the government's failure to prioritise legislation against illicit financial flows from Russia.
Boris Johnson
This Government have come down very hard on dirty money from Russia and everywhere else, bringing in unexplained wealth orders. We have sanctions on Russia following Crimea in 2014 and Magnitsky sanctions on those involved in the poisoning of Alexei Navalny. The economic crime Bill will be voted on in the third Session of this Parliament.
Assessment
Commitment to legislating for an Economic Crime Act was not specifically addressed
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister put right a previous error and commit to publishing a child poverty strategy? This would ensure no child is left behind due to their background or socio-economic status.
Context
There are over 4.3 million children living in poverty, including those in Harrow.
Boris Johnson
We are levelling up across the country with a programme of investment. We see fewer households now with children in poverty than 10 years ago, but more can be done.
Assessment
The Prime Minister acknowledged tackling child poverty but did not commit to publishing a strategy specifically.
It Is Vital That We Tackle Child Poverty And See Fewer Households Now With Children In Poverty Than 10 Years Ago.
Session: PMQs
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I strongly associate myself with the earlier part of the Prime Minister's comments. May I raise something slightly different though? It is nearly four years since the Grenfell Tower tragedy claimed some 72 lives, yet hundreds of thousands of families still live in unsafe, unsellable homes, and many leaseholders face crippling debts, through no fault of their own—Trident Point, Pearmain House and Amber Court are all in my constituency. Given that this was the biggest building scandal in modern UK history, why did the Prime Minister order his MPs to vote down our efforts yesterday to get this scandal sorted once and for all?
Context
In the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster, hundreds of thousands of families still live in unsafe homes due to cladding issues, with some facing large debts.
Boris Johnson
I in no way underestimate the suffering of the victims of Grenfell or of those whose buildings—whose homes—have been prejudiced by the spectre of unsafe materials. That is why we have provided an unprecedented £5 billion of investment, and I can also tell the hon. Gentleman that the most dangerous cladding is already gone or is going from all high-rise buildings. We certainly agree that leaseholders should be protected from remediation costs, and people in high-rise buildings will pay nothing to replace their unsafe cladding.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address why his MPs voted down efforts aimed at resolving Grenfell Tower issues immediately.
Provided Funding Without Directly Addressing The Rejection Of Specific Efforts
Session: PMQs
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I hope that the Prime Minister and the Chancellor now regret their decision not to extend free school meals to cover half-term and will join the richly deserved praise for all those community groups, councils and, indeed, businesses that stepped up to stop our nation's children going hungry last week. Will the Prime Minister now commit to do the right thing at Christmas and extend free school meals to cover that period too?
Context
Decision not to extend free school meals during half-term and Christmas.
Boris Johnson
This Government will ensure that no child goes hungry this Christmas thanks to any inattention or inactivity by Government. Never forget that it was a Conservative Government that instituted free school meals for five, six and seven-year-olds after all the years Labour was in power.
Assessment
No commitment to extend free school meals during Christmas
Never Forget That
Session: PMQs
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Thomas raises concern over Northwick Park Hospital's situation, specifically about staff access to high-grade PPE and timely testing equipment. He wants assurance that these measures will be provided promptly to keep staff safe from cross-infection risks.
Context
Northwick Park Hospital has faced a critical incident due to high levels of deaths from the virus.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Johnson acknowledges the issue at Northwick Park and confirms they have received a consignment recently. He states that supplies will continue to be provided to ensure safety.
Session: PMQs
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The catastrophic events in Nepal last week have had a profound impact on the significant Nepalese community in my constituency. As well as underlining the need for further, sustained effort to tackle climate change internationally, do not those events also underline the need for continuing aid to Nepal?
Context
A major disaster in Nepal had a significant impact on the local Nepalese community in Harrow West, underlining the need for continued international aid.
Stephen Doughty
My hon. Friend speaks up powerfully on behalf of his constituents with connections to Nepal. I can absolutely assure him that we are looking at what further support we can offer to Nepal. Let me emphasise that we had stuff prepositioned, and our work on disaster risk reduction over many years has enabled us to be in a strong position to respond. We will stand by Nepal as it has always stood by us, and we will work closely with China.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-01
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Given what has been rightly said about the poor deal negotiated by Conservatives post-Brexit, when the next UK-EU summit happens, will it be time to discuss opportunities and benefits for key parts of our economy if we rejoin the single market?
Context
The question pertains to the possibility of rejoining the EU single market following discussions on resetting UK-EU relations. The MP references the disastrous nature of previous negotiations.
Rachel Reeves
Understands arguments; made manifesto commitment not to rejoin single market or customs union, but within these limits, can do much to improve relations.
Session: UK-EU Economic Co-operation
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Given the many benefits of an active lifestyle in later life, when might the first UK senior Olympics take place?
Context
The question is prompted by the remarkable achievements of Fay Bond in athletics at an advanced age and the benefits she demonstrated from maintaining an active lifestyle.
Stephanie Peacock
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Team GB at the winter Olympics. It was a real pleasure to be out in Italy cheering them on in their most successful winter games yet. I pay tribute to the lady the hon. Gentleman mentioned. We want everyone, whatever their age, to be able to be active, and we are always interested to hear ideas about future major sporting events.
Session: Active Lifestyles
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What steps she plans to take to ensure that people are adequately supported to maintain an active lifestyle at each stage of life?
Context
The question arises from the need to ensure that people of all ages are supported in maintaining an active lifestyle.
Stephanie Peacock
The Government are committed to ensuring that people of all ages have the opportunity to maintain an active lifestyle. Sport England invests over £250 million of lottery and Exchequer funding annually into grassroots sport to support people of all ages. That includes multiple campaigns designed to encourage active lifestyles.
Session: Active Lifestyles
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As my right hon. Friend has said, hundreds of thousands of displaced families in Gaza are living in torn tents and roofless homes, being exposed to the rain and freezing temperatures, with further storms due. What further steps will she take to persuade the current Israeli Government to allow in the materials necessary for more robust shelter, particularly—and immediately—for families with young children?
Context
Hundreds of thousands of displaced families in Gaza are living in torn tents and roofless homes, exposed to rain and freezing temperatures. Further storms are expected.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
My hon. Friend is right to raise that important matter... We are continuing to urge the Israeli Government to change their restrictions to allow better-quality provisions and construction materials into Gaza, and to make sure we meet those basic humanitarian needs.
Session: Gaza and the West Bank Humanitarian Situation
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I commend the steps that my right hon. Friend took to support those on low incomes, both in the Budget and through the recently published financial inclusion strategy, but may I encourage her to go further on the issue of savings, given that a quarter of the people in the UK have little by way of savings and, indeed, one in seven have no savings at all? Will she encourage employers to work with local credit unions to help those who want to save automatically, and to save even a small amount from their pay packets, to do so?
Context
A quarter of the UK population lacks significant savings, with one in seven having no savings at all. The questioner suggests encouraging employers to work with local credit unions.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
Through the financial inclusion strategy led by the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, we are extending Help to Save within the universal credit system and working with banks and building societies. I know that my hon. Friend works closely with the co-operative movement and with building societies to ensure more people from low-income backgrounds can save for the future.
Session: Low-income Households
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More than two thirds of Gaza’s children—700,000—are living in tents, and are at high risk of preventable disease. Growing numbers are suffering malnutrition, diarrhoea and pneumonia. The Trump plan called for a minimum of 600 trucks of humanitarian aid to enter Gaza daily, but nothing like that number is yet getting in, so will my right hon. Friend step up the Government’s efforts to secure sustained access to Gaza for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, and other critical UN humanitarian agencies?
Context
Alarming reports about the living conditions of children in Gaza, including malnutrition and disease risks. The Trump plan aimed for a minimum number of trucks with humanitarian aid to enter Gaza daily.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
We desperately need to get the humanitarian aid into Gaza. My hon. Friend is right that this provision was part of the 20-point peace plan, and it has widespread support, but it covers just essentials to meet basic humanitarian needs. Shelter, support and healthcare are still needed for families in Gaza. We continue to press not just for the crossings to be reopened, but for the restrictions on aid to be lifted, so that we can get in place the shelter kits, equipment and healthcare support that families need.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Situation
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Northwick Park hospital benefits from excellent cancer clinicians who aim to improve diagnosis speed and support quality through a proposed cancer centre. Given the roll-out of the national cancer plan, would the Minister visit Northwick Park to meet these clinicians and bring the Secretary of State’s resources?
Context
Northwick Park hospital, serving Gareth Thomas's constituents, has excellent cancer clinicians who are developing plans for a new cancer centre. The national cancer plan is being rolled out.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
While acknowledging Gareth Thomas's long-standing efforts for cancer services improvement, Karin Smyth noted that any changes must be clinically led by local decision makers and engaged patients. She offered to connect him with the Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to discuss Northwick Park hospital's plans.
Session: Cancer Services North-west London
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Redwood Housing Co-operative spans five floors of social housing in the iconic OXO Tower on the south bank of the River Thames. Given that Redwood is run by its tenants, charges some of the lowest rents in central London and offers some of the best views, should not every community have a Redwood?
Context
The MP references Redwood Housing Co-operative, a five-floor social housing development in central London known for its tenant-run management and low rents.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
My hon. Friend has long championed co-operatives, and I recognise his commitment to expanding co-ops in London and across the country. With that example, he draws our attention to the benefits that they can provide. We are considering opportunities to legislate to establish a legal framework for a co-operative housing tenure, which would help formalise the rights and responsibilities of both co-operatives and their tenants, and make co-operative housing a more attractive option.
Session: Community-led Housing
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I am sure that the hon. Gentleman— I say this gently to him—will have explained to that particular business that we inherited a very difficult economic situation because of the decisions that his party took, including on tax, but our small business strategy will set out more plans to help small businesses, such as the one in his constituency.
Context
The context is a discussion about the current economic situation inherited by the government due to previous decisions made by the opposition party, particularly regarding tax policies. The question focuses on the assistance provided to small businesses.
Gareth Thomas
Our business rates relief package will make a significant difference for retail, hospitality and leisure. The small business strategy will be published shortly.
Session: Support for Small Businesses
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Bearing in mind that Harrow Crown court is not set to reopen for another year because of Ministers' failure to invest in its repairs early enough, what confidence can victims of crime in Harrow have that Ministers are going to get those who are accused of those crimes to justice much more quickly than is currently the case?
Context
Harrow Crown court is not set to reopen for another year due to delayed repairs.
Laura Farris
As the hon. Gentleman will know, the issue with Harrow Crown court is that reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete was discovered in that building. We are investing more than £220 million in the court estate, because we know how much it matters, not just so that the courts are functioning, but so that the buildings convey the right sense of dignity so that people respect the process. Harrow is just one of 350 courts in England and Wales.
Session: Public Confidence in Victim Support
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What steps his Department is taking to help ensure public confidence in the support provided to victims throughout the criminal justice process?
Context
Public confidence in the support provided to victims throughout the criminal justice process is under scrutiny.
Laura Farris
With the Victims and Prisoners Bill, we are putting the victims code on a statutory footing. It includes a right for any victim of crime to be signposted by the police to correct and appropriate support services. We have quadrupled victims funding since we took office in 2010 to over £150 million a year, and have recruited almost 1,000 independent sexual violence advisers and independent domestic violence advisers into the criminal justice system. In addition, we provide a range of freephone support lines, including a 24/7 hotline for rape.
Session: Public Confidence in Victim Support
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Is the truth not that British exporters always do better under a Labour Government?
Context
References rise in exports under previous Labour Government, questions current export performance.
Kemi Badenoch
That is absolute rubbish. The veterinary agreement would create dynamic alignment with the EU, which is not what this country voted for in 2016. We are delivering on the referendum result; difficulties will be addressed.
Session: Export Target
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Why will she not pursue an agreement that is so obviously in Britain's national interest?
Context
References OBR figures and Aston University report, questions lack of interest in veterinary agreement.
Kemi Badenoch
The OBR puts out figures and we do not accept cherry-picked data. The Opposition should look at overall export growth forecasts and specific periods they are referring to, including those impacted by covid.
Session: Export Target
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It is now seven months since the Government claimed to have lifted the onshore wind ban. The Secretary of State at the time claimed that her decision would speed up the delivery of projects. Since then, no new applications for onshore wind farms for domestic use have been submitted. Does the Minister think that that has been a success?
Context
The number of onshore wind planning applications in Great Britain increased by 27% from 2022 to 2023. The government had claimed to lift the onshore wind ban seven months prior, suggesting it would speed up project delivery. However, no new applications for domestic use have been submitted since.
Andrew Bowie
Unlike the Opposition, we like to work with and listen to communities around the country. We believe in local consent for projects. It should be up to local communities to decide whether and how much onshore wind they want in their area. The Opposition do not like to talk about this, but we must remember that in 2010, a pitiful 7% of electricity came from renewables—that is up to 50% under this Government.
Session: Onshore Wind Planning Applications
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What discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on trends in the number of onshore wind planning applications?
Context
The number of onshore wind planning applications in Great Britain increased by 27% from 2022 to 2023. The government had claimed to lift the onshore wind ban seven months prior, suggesting it would speed up project delivery.
Andrew Bowie
In 2023, 80 onshore wind planning applications were submitted in Great Britain—a 27% increase from 2022. We have recently changed planning policy in England to pave the way for more onshore wind projects where there is local support.
Session: Onshore Wind Planning Applications
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What does the Minister think is the best explanation for the Government's dismal performance on exports so far? The Office for Budget Responsibility said yesterday that exports, including from SMEs, will fall even more than expected this year; growth in exports will be less than 1% in each of the next three years.
Context
The MP is questioning the government's poor performance in supporting SMEs and improving exports.
Nusrat Ghani
We can get the best explanation from looking at the data behind what the hon. Gentleman set out. He obviously omitted the international reality. In the same report, the OBR referenced the “sluggish growth” in “global economies” and mentioned that British goods and services will outperform, on average, G7 countries. Those are the facts on the ground. When it comes to exports, we are exporting not only into the EU but outside the EU. As I said earlier, professional and business services are increasing outside the EU by 19%.[Official Report, 12 March 2024, Vol. 747, c. 6MC.] (Correction) We have substantial programmes in place to help small and medium-sized enterprises. We are keen to learn and do as much work as we can.
Session: Exports Small and Medium-sized Businesses
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Why do Ministers not invest in a hospital that actually exists and provide a new purpose-built intensive care facility at Northwick Park Hospital?
Context
Northwick Park Hospital serves a significant population and needs additional intensive care beds to manage winter pressures.
Helen Whately
We are investing in the NHS, ensuring more capacity through 5,000 extra hospital beds and 800 new ambulances around the country this winter. We are also focusing on care outside hospitals with proactive measures to support patients.
Session: Winter Pressure on NHS Services
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According to the International Monetary Fund, over the past decade British food and drink exports, including from SMEs, rose by just 3%, which was the lowest growth of any G7 country. Why will Ministers not share our ambitions for Britain to have the fastest export growth rate of any G7 country?
Context
The MP inquires about low growth rates of British food and drink exports over the past decade.
Greg Hands
Of course, the hon. Gentleman and I have been around in these jobs for a while. He was possibly the last Trade Minister under the last Labour Government, so I will not be taking lectures from him on how to improve UK exports. We have been financing dozens of global trade missions and we are spending £200 million over the spending review period on exports in general.
Session: Exports Small and Medium-sized Businesses
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Opt-out savings are a little like auto-enrolment in pensions. They help those on lower incomes to save for a crisis—for the proverbial rainy day. Given that more than 9 million people in this country are in work with no savings at all, will the Chancellor note the impressive results of a small trial of the opt-out savings system in Manchester, and encourage its expansion?
Context
A small trial of the opt-out savings system in Manchester has shown promising results.
Jeremy Hunt
The Chancellor is willing to consider expanding the opt-out savings system.
Session: Topical Questions
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According to the International Monetary Fund, British exports to France and Germany since 2019 are down—by 14% to France and 17% to Germany. US exports to both are up by 20%; Canada's are up by 23% and Italy's are up by 29%. Ministers will not back an industrial strategy, have cut funding to get businesses to trade shows and will not negotiate a veterinary agreement. Why does this Minister think that everyone else has got so much better recently at selling things to our nearest neighbours?
Context
The International Monetary Fund reported that UK exports to France have decreased by 14% and to Germany by 17% since 2019, while US, Canadian, and Italian exports to these countries increased significantly. The questioner also mentioned the government's lack of support for an industrial strategy, cuts in funding for trade shows, and failure to negotiate a veterinary agreement.
Nusrat Ghani
Members choose which numbers they want to throw out, but those do not necessarily reflect reality. I thought it was fantastic that we are now the eighth largest manufacturer in the world; I believe that we leap-frogged France—leap-frogging the French is always good to get on the record. Actually, exports are most definitely up. In the 12 months to June 2023, UK exports rose by £139 billion, an increase of 8% once adjusted for inflation. In the same period, goods exports reached £428 billion, an 11% increase when adjusted for inflation. Perhaps we should reflect on the opportunities for all the businesses in our constituencies.
Session: Business Exports
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Why is it taking so long for the Government to intervene on behalf of victims and their families regarding offenders attending sentencing hearings?
Context
Labour proposed law changes in 2022 for mandatory offender presence during sentencing, and the Leader of the Opposition recently reiterated this stance. The government has not acted swiftly.
Edward Argar
The Department is clear on its intention to bring forward appropriate legislation, but it needs time to ensure judicial discretion and robustness of the measure. We are determined to get this right for victims and families.
Session: Sentencing Offender Attendance
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Why will the Secretary of State not take the sensible step of starting negotiations for a veterinary agreement to reduce costs?
Context
The MP highlights rising food prices and mentions significant business support for a veterinary agreement.
Nigel Huddleston
Discussions are ongoing about the trade and co-operation agreement, including dialogue with our EU partners. Since leaving the EU, we have reduced tariffs significantly in the best interests of British consumers.
Session: Food Prices
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Will the Secretary of State tell the House why, in the accession talks, she was not able to resist giving some overseas corporate giants the right to access secret courts that could override the will of the British people, bypass Parliament and cost British taxpayers significant sums of money?
Context
The question challenges the benefits of joining CPTPP, particularly regarding its limited economic growth projection and provisions allowing foreign companies to bypass Parliament.
Kemi Badenoch
I believe that the hon. Gentleman is referring to investor dispute settlement mechanisms. We have used them in this country for many years, and that has protected British companies. He is wrong about the CPTPP not bringing much economic growth to the country—it will bring billions.
Session: CPTPP Impact on UK Businesses
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Will the Minister explain why the Treasury is still dragging its feet on introducing permanent mutual shares, which would allow financial mutuals such as Royal London or Liverpool Victoria to expand safely and efficiently?
Context
Permanent mutual shares would provide financial mutuals with a new safe route to access capital needed for expansion without demutualising.
Andrew Griffith
The Treasury is not dragging its feet. The sector has been supported through reforms, including Law Commission work to enhance commercial freedom and diversity. The Minister remains open to discussions with representatives from the sector.
Session: Financial Services Sector Regulatory Framework
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When the Minister dug out the letter from the right hon. Member for Tatton (Esther McVey), I wonder whether he also stumbled upon my letter of 8 February to the Secretary of State about the desperate need for new intensive care investment at Northwick Park Hospital in my constituency, and whether he might expedite a reply on that issue.
Context
The hon. Member for Harrow West inquired about the need for new intensive care investment at Northwick Park Hospital.
Neil O'Brien
I am sure the hon. Gentleman's question will indeed expedite it.
Session: Members Correspondence
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Earlier this month, the pan-European EVOLVE project found significantly greater potential for marine energy in British waters, which would obviously help us achieve our net zero targets and offer a quicker route to round-the-clock renewable and carbon-free energy. Why are Ministers being so timid about backing that cutting-edge energy technology?
Context
The MP questioned the timidity of Ministers in backing marine energy technology which has significant potential.
Graham Stuart
I take it that the hon. Gentleman is talking about tidal stream. I am delighted to say that we are the world leader in tidal stream, and that in allocation round 4—the last round of our CfD—tidal stream was included for the first time. We have greater deployment than any other country in the world, but I am like the hon. Gentleman: I share his enthusiasm for that technology, and hope to see even more from it in future.
Session: Renewable Energy Production
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More than half of firms surveyed by the British Chambers of Commerce are struggling with the new post-Brexit export system. The Office for National Statistics reports that Brexit costs the economy £1 million per hour, and the UK economy has not recovered as well as other countries post-covid. What plans does the Minister have to reduce trade barriers and EU border bureaucracy, which have hugely increased since Brexit?
Context
The MP questioned the government's response to firms struggling with new export systems since Brexit, referencing economic costs and comparative recovery rates.
Nigel Huddleston
As I said earlier, I hope that we can look at the opportunities of leaving the EU as well as trying to fight past battles. There are a host of opportunities; for example, I do not think that the EU had a particularly proud record on services around the globe. We are opening up services for many companies, which under the EU we were to a very large degree constrained in doing. We have huge resources for supporting businesses. Trade with the EU has been growing considerably, and we will do everything we can to support further growth.
Session: Trade with European Countries
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What recent progress has been made on a free trade agreement with the US?
Context
Lack of progress on a free trade agreement despite previous statements.
Nigel Huddleston
We recognise that the US is not currently focused on FTAs. However, we stand ready to resume negotiations when they are ready. We have been working to improve the trading landscape by removing tariffs and lifting bans.
Session: Free Trade Agreement with the US
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One way to improve retention and recruitment of NHS staff at Northwick Park Hospital, which serves my constituency and which I believe the Secretary of State visited last Thursday, would be to invest in doubling its intensive care beds. Did the Secretary of State discuss that issue with the chief executive of Northwick Park when he visited last week? Will he tell us when he might be able to announce funding for the new 60-bed unit that Northwick Park needs?
Context
The MP mentions the importance of investing in doubling intensive care beds at Northwick Park Hospital to improve retention and recruitment of NHS staff. The Secretary of State visited the hospital last Thursday.
Steve Barclay (Minister for Health and Social Care)
The hon. Gentleman is right to highlight the importance of bed capacity at Northwick Park, but my discussions with the chief executive were more in the context of how step-down capacity will relieve pressure on A&E. The hon. Gentleman will know that Northwick Park has one of the busiest, if not the busiest, A&Es in London on many days, and the chief executive spoke to me about the value of adding extra bed capacity from a step-down perspective, much more so than from an intensive-care perspective. If there are specific issues for intensive care, I am happy to follow them up with the hon. Gentleman.
Session: NHS Workforce Retention and Recruitment
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According to the Centre for Business Prosperity, more than 40% of products such as shellfish and seed potatoes are no longer exported to European markets, for want of a veterinary agreement with the EU—yet the Government do nothing. I know that exports in ex-Prime Ministers' speeches have increased recently, thanks to the efforts of Ministers, but why will they not act now to negotiate a veterinary agreement, which would be transformational for British farmers, thousands of British businesses and the British food industry in particular?
Context
The Centre for Business Prosperity reported that more than 40% of products such as shellfish and seed potatoes are no longer exported to European markets due to a lack of a veterinary agreement with the EU.
Andrew Bowie
This negativity about our export position with the European Union is precisely why so many people are turned off from the Labour party and have been for such a long time. Contrary to what the hon. Gentleman said, trade with the EU is actually up by 18%. The veterinary agreement would involve dynamic alignment with the EU, which I believe the Labour party is opposed to; the hon. Gentleman might want to correct the record. In terms of overall relations with the EU, my right hon. Friend the Minister for Trade Policy is engaging every single day with our European partners to see what we can do to drive down trade barriers further, so that we can promote British exports on the continent.
Session: Trade Barriers Food and Farming
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The UK-Australia free trade agreement is a stepping stone to accession to the CPTPP. Given concerns over rushed negotiations, can the Minister assure us that Britain will not be subject to any new secret courts through investor-state dispute settlement?
Context
Concerns about the UK's readiness for accession to the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership following issues with the Australia deal.
Nigel Huddleston
Discussions with the CPTPP are ongoing, and we are confident in striking a mutually beneficial deal. I advise watching this space for updates.
Session: UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement
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Two weeks ago, an inquest into the death of my constituent's brother, Liridon Saliuka, found that significant and multiple failings at Belmarsh had contributed to his death while on remand there. I recognise that Ministers will not immediately know the details of what happened, but I believe my constituent is entitled to understand how her brother could have been so comprehensively let down. Will the Secretary of State find out what went wrong and, in the first instance, write to me?
Context
An inquest into the death of a constituent's brother found significant and multiple failings at Belmarsh.
Dominic Raab
These kinds of cases are harrowing for the family. If the hon. Gentleman writes to me with further details, I will be very happy to look at them and report back to him.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am sorry that the Secretary of State continues to take such a complacent attitude to trade with Europe. This is not just about food and drink; recent data shows that exports of cars and car parts are still significantly down as a result of the trade barriers, and many hundreds of small businesses which were exporting to Europe, according to His Majesty's Revenue and Customs, have simply stopped doing so. The Secretary of State's own colleague, the Under-Secretary of State for Justice, the hon. Member for Finchley and Golders Green (Mike Freer)—a former exports Minister—has said that businesses which want to export are simply not getting enough support to do so.
Given the desperate need for growth following the kamikaze Budget that the Secretary of State backed last month, can she tell the House whether there will be more or less support for British exports after the Chancellor's fiscal statement?
Given the desperate need for growth following the kamikaze Budget that the Secretary of State backed last month, can she tell the House whether there will be more or less support for British exports after the Chancellor's fiscal statement?
Context
Exports of cars and car parts are still significantly down as a result of trade barriers, and many small businesses have stopped exporting to Europe.
Kemi Badenoch
It amazes me that, even now, Brexit is still being blamed for everything. It is about time that the Opposition, who call other people complacent, paid attention to what is going on in the world and got off their personal hobby-horses. On car manufacturing, there is an issue with battery supply from the US, as everybody knows. We are doing everything that we can to support companies in getting the parts that they need. The export support service is doing a fantastic job, and I commend the officials who work in it.
Session: Topical Questions
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In the first half of the year, British food and drink exports to Europe were still 5% below their 2019 level, but imports from Europe were up by 22%. The last Secretary of State would not take any action to reduce the barriers to trading with Europe and, indeed, cut the funding for business groups to back British exporters. After the economic car crash that she and the rest of the Government caused last month, is it not time that this Secretary of State took a different approach?
Context
British food and drink exports to Europe are still below their 2019 levels, while imports from Europe have increased significantly.
Kemi Badenoch
I disagree with the hon. Gentleman. We are doing everything we can to support businesses. He will know that 2019 was before the pandemic, so of course we recognise that supply chain issues have had an impact on exports. I have been referring to this throughout today's questions session. We have an export support service, and plenty of support in place to assist businesses trading across Europe and the rest of the world.
Session: Topical Questions
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As the Minister considers how to modernise the courts system further, he might want to reflect on the lessons learned—or not—from a court case in 1984, when 37 workers from the Cammell Laird shipyards were unjustly imprisoned at a maximum security prison, and as a result were sacked, blacklisted, and lost redundancy and pension rights. Will he commit today to examine what papers his Department and the rest of Government hold on this case so that such an injustice can never happen again?
Context
MP asks for a commitment to examine historical cases of unjust imprisonment and the resulting injustices faced by affected individuals.
James Cartlidge
If the hon. Member writes to me, I will be more than happy to get my officials to look into that historical case.
Session: Courts System
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There are media reports today that another 30 flights from Heathrow have been cancelled, with considerable disruption for many passengers. Many passengers have turned up to Heathrow not knowing that those flights were set to be cancelled, so it is disappointing that the Secretary of State has chosen not to initiate an oral statement on his response to the crisis. How many people does he think have been affected by the situation facing our airlines? And if he does not know, why not?
Context
The question addresses the cancellation of flights from Heathrow, with reported numbers affecting many passengers.
Robert Courts
We have made it absolutely clear that the scenes we have seen at airports are unacceptable and that we do not want a repeat of them. It is important to remember that the responsibility for ensuring the safe, efficient operation of airlines rests with the aviation sector. We have announced a 22-point plan today to make it clear what the Government are doing in support.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister now back the private Member's Bill of my hon. Friend the Member for Preston (Sir Mark Hendrick) and require all public bodies to promote credit unions going forward?
Context
The government has had warm words for credit unions but slow to provide legal reforms. The private Member's Bill of my hon. Friend the Member for Preston (Sir Mark Hendrick) aims to drive significant expansion.
John Glen
Over the years, we have had considerable dialogue on many of these measures. As I said, the legislation that the sector is looking for will be introduced in the next few weeks. I am aware of the Bill of the hon. Member for Preston (Sir Mark Hendrick), and I am seeking to have a meeting with him imminently—in the next few days or next week—to discuss it and to see what we can support.
Session: Credit Unions
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Perhaps the reason that the Minister of State does not want to give any more detail is that in Geneva this week the Secretary of State has actually been leading efforts to water down or block any deal on access to covid medicines. I gently ask the Minister of State this: with so few people in developing countries having had their first covid vaccine, why are Ministers so determined to prevent some of the richest companies across the globe from giving the poorest people in the world the tools they need to stop transmission and save lives?
Context
The question challenges the UK's role and intentions during the ongoing World Trade Organisation negotiations concerning access to vaccines.
Penny Mordaunt
That is a ridiculous mischaracterisation of this country's stance. We are one of the largest donors to the covid advance market commitment, which is ensuring that the vaccine is being rolled out in 92 developing countries. We are at the forefront of that effort. What the Secretary of State is trying to do is ensure that investment in the science base that created these vaccines remains strong. We need to do both of those things if we are going to vaccinate the world.
Session: Covid-19 Vaccines Global Access
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What is the Minister doing to remove Brexit red tape tied around musical industries that make it difficult and expensive for them to export their cultural wares in Europe?
Context
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra faces difficulties and costs due to Brexit red tape, including cabotage rules, when exporting its services in Europe.
Mike Freer
Creative industries are valued exporters for the UK. The Department works with partners in-country on interpreting rules and finding practical solutions for barriers resulting from new trading arrangements.
Session: Exports to European Markets
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Cammell Laird Workers Imprisoned in 1984 — [Sir Christopher Chope in the Chair]
07 February 2023
Responding: Edward Argar
Main Concerns
['In October 1984, 37 trade unionists were arrested and imprisoned for up to 30 days after occupying a gas rig at Cammell Laird shipyard in Birkenhead. No other industrial action resulted in such severe imprisonment of workers. The men lost their jobs, redundancy pay, and pension benefits upon release from prison. They also faced blacklisting and struggled to find work afterwards. The decision was grossly unfair and disproportionate. Gareth Thomas argues that the Cammell Laird 37 were part of an official national dispute and enabled essential maintenance on a destroyer being built at the time.']
Specific Asks
['Either a public inquiry should review the treatment of the 37 or their case should be reviewed by the Criminal Cases Review Commission, given that contempt cases resulting in prison are not currently within scope. The law would need to change if the latter option is pursued.']
Covid-19: Financial Implications for Schools — [Stewart Hosie in the Chair]
07 October 2020
Responding: Nick Gibb
Main Concerns
['Schools in Harrow and across the country are facing significant financial difficulties due to extra costs incurred from covid-19 measures. One school expects £175,000 in additional expenses over a year, while another primary school has already incurred more than £60,000 since the start of summer term. Teachers estimate that pupils are on average three months behind in their curriculum learning with disadvantaged children faring worse. School spending per pupil fell by 9% between 2009-10 and 2019-20, leaving them poorly placed to handle pandemic challenges.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should extend funding to cover additional costs due to the pandemic and recognise the need for sustained investment in deprived areas and special needs education. Ministers should also consider providing free household internet access for children from households on universal credit.']
Backbench Business
09 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mohamed argues that successive British Governments have acknowledged the illegality and harmful effects of Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories but have failed to take decisive ...
Armed Forces Act 2026 - Amendments 2, 3, 4, 88, and 89
02 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Ms. Nusrat Ghani proposes several amendments to the Armed Forces Act 2026 aimed at ensuring continuity of support for children with special educational needs, adoption and fostering arrangements, NHS ...
Debate on the Address
13 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Finance
11 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to approve the Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27, laying before the House on 9 February.
Holocaust Memorial Day 2026-01-29
29 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The hon. Member for Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket opened the debate by highlighting the importance of Holocaust Memorial Day, especially in the context of recent events in Gaza which have polarized c...
Banks (Financial Exclusion and Access to Finance) 2026-01-14
14 January 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Moves a Bill requiring banks to measure their performance in reducing financial exclusion, disclosing such performance, establishing a rating system for banks based on this performance, and mandating ...
Business of the House 2025-12-11
11 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr Graham highlighted the difficulties faced by businesses due to recent tax rises, particularly in hospitality and retail sectors. He mentioned specific examples from his constituency such as Walling...
Future of the Post Office 2025-07-14
14 July 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
Post offices are vital to communities and face challenges due to declining financial sustainability, changing consumer habits, and technological issues. The Government seeks to modernise the Post Offi...
Post Office Horizon Inquiry Volume 1 2025-07-08
08 July 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
Sir Wyn Williams has released the first volume of his report into the Horizon scandal, which caused significant harm to postmasters. The Minister emphasises the bravery of those who fought for recogni...
Business and the Economy 2025-05-21
21 May 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion regrets the rise in unemployment, especially affecting young people, and criticises the government for its policies that have led to business closures. It mentions over 200,000 businesses c...
Attendance
80.6%
79 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
31
31.6% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
19
19.4% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED 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
DID NOT VOTE
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
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
8
PMQs Asked
69
Ministerial Questions Asked
82
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
14
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+415% above average
This MP:
69
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1587% above average
This MP:
82
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+48% above average
This MP:
14
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+16% above average
This MP:
80.6
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 Thomas's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.