Gavin Newlands
MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Last year, Scotland exported 19 trillion Wh of electricity, worth £4 billion, to the UK grid. Despite this, Scottish generators pay the highest grid connection charges in Europe and Scots face among the highest standing charges compared to London's lowest. Should Scottish households be forced to endure harsh winters due to these disparities?
Context
Scottish electricity exports to the UK grid increased last year, yet Scottish households face among Europe's highest connection charges. Concerns are raised about subsidising other parts of the UK.
Rishi Sunak
Standing charges are a matter for Ofgem. The Government provides an annual cross-subsidy worth £60 to a typical household in Scotland, plus considerable support this year. This is on top of the cross-subsidy already provided.
Assessment
The specific ask about Scottish households subsidising other parts of the UK was not directly addressed.
Provides General Context Without Addressing Subsidy Specifics
Session: PMQs
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Events in Israel and Gaza are horrifying. Condemning Hamas's terrorism is right, but should also be condemned for any war crimes committed by the IDF. The siege of Gaza and withholding water from its people is described as collective punishment—a war crime under the Geneva convention. Why support such actions?
Context
Concerned about the humanitarian crisis caused by Hamas's attacks and Israeli military responses, citing UN and Médecins Sans Frontières statements.
Rishi Sunak
Israel has a right to defend itself against Hamas, who embed themselves inside civilian populations. The hon. Gentleman should acknowledge that Hamas puts innocent civilians in harm's way.
Assessment
Specific violations of international law by Israel's military operations
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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Last night was another fantastic night at Hampden—it was a real tonic during tough times for the tartan army and Scotland more widely. However, whereas English and Welsh fans could watch their national teams for free on Channel 4 and S4C, only a small fraction of Scots could watch their match, with many unable to afford the subscription to Viaplay, particularly during this cost of living crisis. Does the Prime Minister agree that that is inherently unfair, and will he ask the Department for Culture, Media and Sport Secretary to meet me to discuss how to fix this situation?
Context
The MP praised the match at Hampden but noted that English and Welsh fans had free access to watch their national teams on Channel 4 and S4C, while many Scots could not afford the subscription to Viaplay.
Rishi Sunak
I join the hon. Gentleman in his comments about the match. I know the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, my right hon. and learned Friend the Member for South East Cambridgeshire (Lucy Frazer), is engaging with him and others on this particular topic, and I will make sure that she gets back to him.
Assessment
Did not confirm whether it's inherently unfair or commitment to ask DCMS secretary for meeting
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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In light of the Tory cost of living crisis, does Mr Normal really think he is worth 65 times a band 2 nurse given his earnings and additional business work?
Context
Questioning the Deputy Prime Minister's stance on cost of living issues compared to his earnings.
Oliver Dowden
I am not quite sure what the question was aiming at, but I can say that this Government has provided more than £3,000 of support to help people with the cost of living due to our strong economy and Union. In contrast, SNP in Scotland is raising taxes on working people.
Assessment
Specific question about moral standing not addressed; instead criticized the Scottish Government.
Session: PMQs
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My constituents struggle with bills and food costs due to high inflation rates across various goods including food and utilities, as well as the threat of economic loss from car manufacturing moving out of the country. The Office for Budget Responsibility says that £100 billion has been lost permanently from the economy. Wages are falling behind basic living expenses. Does the Deputy Prime Minister believe his Government's Brexit approach benefits people?
Context
Food prices have risen by more than 19% in the last year, infant formula up by 45%, gas by 129%, and electricity by 67%. Many people are borrowing more money than before. Car manufacturers threaten to move production abroad.
Oliver Dowden
I do believe that our strong United Kingdom allows us to afford interventions such as cost of living support, funded by a 75% windfall tax on oil and gas companies. This supports families with more than £3,300 per household.
Assessment
Did not directly address whether the Brexit approach benefits people
General Statement
Session: PMQs
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On Monday, he sent his MPs through the Lobby to deny Scottish workers the right to strike. On Tuesday, he sent his Secretary of State for Scotland to block a Bill voted for by 70% of MSPs. Does he still think David Cameron's assertion holds any water?
Context
David Cameron said the Scottish Parliament was 'one of the most powerful devolved parliaments in the world'. The Prime Minister continues to block the Scottish Parliament's clear mandate.
Rishi Sunak
Some 347 Acts have been passed by the Scottish Parliament, which is undeniably one of the most powerful devolved legislatures anywhere in the world. In this exceptional case, it is clear that the Bill has adverse consequences on UK-wide equalities legislation. The Secretary has regretfully taken the decision to block passage of the legislation.
Session: PMQs
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Why did Allegra Stratton have to resign if previous statements about partygate were true?
Context
Multiple statements were issued regarding Downing Street parties during the pandemic, culminating in Allegra Stratton resigning.
Boris Johnson
No one wanted Allegra to resign, and I was very sad that she did.
Assessment
Circumstances leading to her resignation were not explained
Session: PMQs
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On Monday, thousands of British Gas workers finished striking in protest at the threat of being fired and rehired on reduced terms and conditions. Of course, it was British Airways's shameful fire and rehire actions that prompted the Prime Minister to say that he was looking at what he could do. He has also called for employers to display “fairness and respect”, but clearly that has not happened and is not happening, and he must now step up. I have a Bill with cross-party support that would outlaw the practice, so will he meet me to discuss how we can provide more protection for all our workers?
Context
British Gas workers recently ended a strike after facing threats of being fired and rehired on reduced terms. This practice is also an issue for British Airways employees.
Boris Johnson
As the hon. Gentleman says, we believe that using threats of firing and rehiring is unacceptable as a negotiating tactic, and there are laws in place to ensure that contractual conditions cannot discriminate against people on grounds of race, sex or disability, but I will take up his point by saying that the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is working with ACAS, businesses and employee representatives to discuss what more we can do.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to meeting regarding a bill outlawing fire and rehire tactics but acknowledged ongoing discussions.
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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The aviation industry is vital now and will be crucial when we come out of this coronavirus situation, with thousands of jobs depending on it. Can the Prime Minister tell me why the Government have washed their hands of providing a bespoke support package to the aviation industry?
Context
Thousands of jobs in Gavin Newlands' constituency and nearly 1 million across the UK rely on the aviation industry. The Chancellor and Transport Secretary initially committed to a bespoke support package but later reneged on that commitment.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson) (12:00:00)
No specific response provided in the given text.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not provide a direct answer regarding why the Government has retracted its commitment to the aviation industry support package.
Did Not Address Question
Session: PMQs
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Unlike SULEBS and ScotZEB, the ZEBRA scheme has been a failure. Will the Secretary of State consider conducting a cross-Government review to prioritize domestic manufacturing within existing legal frameworks?
Context
The MP is concerned about the ZEBRA scheme's failure and its impact on UK bus manufacturers.
Mark Harper
Local authorities can include social value in tenders, but specific commitments to buy from certain provisions are not allowed. The Trade Remedies Authority investigates unfair competition with subsidised imports.
Session: Bus Manufacturing
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Two years after P&O's actions, Peter Hebblethwaite appeared in Parliament admitting pay cuts for seafarers. British Airways' CEOs threatened workers four years earlier but took no action from the Government then or now. I asked if the fire and rehire code of practice would have prevented this threat, which it could not.
Context
British Airways CEOs Willie Walsh and Álex Cruz threatened thousands of workers with fire and rehire four years ago, despite Government covid assistance being refused.
Anthony Browne
The P&O case is under investigation by the Insolvency Service. The point of the fire and rehire code of practice is to ensure it is used only as a last resort, with up to 25% extra compensation for employees if employers breach the code.
Session: Fire and Rehire
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The Secretary of State mentioned levelling up but cuts to Scotland's capital spending were announced. Did he argue against these cuts? Will he support raising more capital borrowing for Scotland?
Context
Westminster has been accused of cutting Scotland's capital funding, which affects the levelling up agenda. The Scottish Parliament's borrowing capacity is also questioned.
Alister Jack
In the fiscal framework settlement, we agreed that resource funding could be reallocated to capital funding. Additionally, they have the ability to borrow £450 million if needed.
Session: Spring Budget 2024
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What recent assessment has he made of the impact of the spring Budget 2024 on Scotland?
Context
The question arises from recent events in Scotland and concerns over economic impacts. The speaker references calamitous situations affecting Scotland.
Alister Jack
I have made an assessment of the spring budget and its impact. The UK Government is focused on cutting taxes for working people and growing the economy with investment into Scotland surpassing £3 billion. Additionally, the Scottish government will benefit from a £295 million funding uplift through the Barnett formula.
Session: Spring Budget 2024
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Thanking Alex Hynes for his service, I note that the National Audit Office reported rail reform was not on track with missed savings targets and budget cuts announced by the Chancellor. Does the Minister agree that his Government are unable to make savings but willing to make cuts?
Context
Alex Hynes is stepping down from running Scotland's Railway to become director general of rail at the Department for Transport. The NAO report indicated £1.5 billion in lost savings and failed workforce reforms.
Huw Merriman
No, I do not agree. We are getting on with rail reform by appointing Alex Hynes as director general in the Department for Transport.
Session: Rail Reform Delays Cost
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It has been over two years since nearly 800 P&O Ferries workers were summarily sacked and thrown off ferries. Despite claims of substantial progress on the nine-point plan, the Seafarers' Wages Act still hasn't come into force and the voluntary charter will not change how P&O operates. Why is meaningful action not being taken?
Context
Nearly two years since nearly 800 P&O workers were dismissed, the Government's fire-and-rehire code of practice will be debated next week. The Seafarers' Wages Act is yet to come into force.
Anthony Browne
The Seafarers' Wages Act will come into force this summer. The charter will ensure minimum wage compliance, overtime payments, and rostering to prevent fatigue and compromise safety.
Session: Seafarer Welfare P&O Ferries
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Many of those people are in work, Secretary of State. Some £14 million has been paid to more than 10,000 children's families in Renfrewshire thanks to the widely praised Scottish child payment. Praise has come from the Institute for Public Policy Research Scotland, which says that the Scottish Government are making employment for parents central to their child poverty strategy, but it says that devolved employment support programmes are held back by responsibility being split across governments and a reserved Jobcentre system which is more often focused on compliance than helping people reach their full potential. It recommends the full devolution of employment support to tackle child poverty. Will the Secretary of State listen to the experts?
Context
In Renfrewshire, £14 million has been paid to more than 10,000 children's families thanks to the Scottish child payment. Experts recommend full devolution of employment support.
Mel Stride
I am always very interested in listening to the hon. Gentleman and any ideas he has about improving our welfare system, but I point to the fact that this country has seen a considerable drop in absolute child poverty, after housing costs, of 400,000 since 2010.
Session: Child Poverty
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What steps his Department is taking to help reduce the number of children in poverty?
Context
The MP is concerned about the high number of children living in poverty.
Mel Stride
We are reducing child poverty through a large number of measures, including increasing the national living wage and reducing the national insurance tax as recently announced by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor.
Session: Child Poverty
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Some of these answers are meaningless, supine nonsense. The Minister has abstained from voting on UN Security Council ceasefire resolutions. Will he guarantee that the UK will work with partners to draft a resolution reflecting this House's will?
Context
The discussion is about the UK Government's consistent failure to take decisive action in condemning Israeli actions in Gaza.
Andrew Mitchell
On the hon. Gentleman's final point, which I think was the question, the answer is yes, but in respect of everything else he said, the answer is no.
Session: Gaza Sustainable Ceasefire
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What discussions has he had with his US counterpart on a potential UN Security Council resolution on a ceasefire in Gaza?
Context
The discussion is about the need for a UN Security Council resolution to establish a ceasefire in Gaza.
Andrew Mitchell
We need a humanitarian pause to get aid in and hostages out, leading to a sustainable, permanent ceasefire. We are pressing for this with Israel, regional leaders and our wider international partners, including the United States.
Session: Gaza Sustainable Ceasefire
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Does he accept that it is his Government's “bust or bust” austerity that is driving public services to the edge, given cuts in capital funding?
Context
The MP criticised the Secretary of State for cutting capital funding to Scottish Parliament and claimed that it drives public services to the edge.
Alister Jack
This is nonsense. Austerity is not a thing under this Government—not a thing at all. [Laughter.] No, absolutely not. Departmental spending—this is the point that the SNP does not acknowledge—throughout this Parliament has grown by 3.2% on average.
Session: Financial Settlement for Scotland
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Is he proud of his legacy given that on his watch many Scots are struggling with high living costs due to rapid inflation and further cuts to Scottish Government funding?
Context
The MP criticized the Secretary of State for cutting Scottish Government's funding despite inflationary pressures, questioning his legacy.
Alister Jack
That is an easy one to answer, Mr Speaker, as I am very proud of my legacy. Rather like winning four Calcutta cups, I have won in court with the Scottish Government four times, and there are any number of things I would like to list for my legacy. Importantly, the Scottish Government receive a record block of £41 billion, and record Barnett consequentials on top of that.
Session: Financial Settlement for Scotland
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New data reveals that female science undergraduates face higher rates of sexism than their peers. What steps is the Minister taking to address the culture of sexism in STEM so more women can pursue careers there?
Context
New data from Times Higher Education shows that female science undergraduates are twice as likely to experience sexism compared to their peers on non-science courses. Many have reported being patronised or belittled by their male classmates, and this behaviour goes unchallenged.
Andrew Griffith
A key priority for this Government is ensuring that everybody, regardless of background, faces no discrimination and can pursue an occupation in STEM. The number of STEM apprenticeship starts by women has increased by almost 8% this year, and since 2016 a total of almost £8 million has been awarded to 152 remarkable women role models.
Session: Women in STEM Jobs
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Will the Secretary of State confirm whether the Ministry of Justice was aware of this, and does he believe that non-disclosure to the inquiry is a threat to judicial freedom and independence?
Context
The BBC reported that the Post Office had knowledge of Horizon's balancing transaction capability and an ongoing Deloitte investigation was halted after sub-postmasters began legal action.
Alex Chalk
An independent inquiry under Mr Justice Wyn Williams was set up in 2020. It will report later this year, going into details about who knew what and when. The Post Office's failure is an egregious one that brings shame on those involved.
Session: Horizon System Exoneration of Sub-postmasters
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What steps are being taken to improve rail services?
Context
The MP is concerned about the quality of rail services.
Huw Merriman
The Government are committed to reforming the railways, creating Great British Railways to bring together infrastructure, operations and oversight of whole-industry finance. In the interim, the Department continues to hold the rail industry accountable for punctual and reliable services.
Session: Rail Services
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What are the Government doing to save Grangemouth as part of a just transition to net zero, and when will we see plans for a contract for difference-type scheme for SAFs?
Context
The Government's plans for five sustainable aviation fuel plants by 2025 are behind schedule, with competitors making progress. There is concern about the economic impact and transition to net zero.
Anthony Browne
We are probably more advanced here than anywhere else in the country, and as I mentioned, we are funding 13 different schemes to get the industry going. We want information from them about what is needed. There are huge economic benefits from this, and it could create many thousands of jobs.
Session: Sustainable Aviation Fuel
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Given polling showing almost half of musicians have less work in the EU post-Brexit and 40% cancelled work due to increased costs, how can the Minister continue to pretend that Brexit has not harmed musicians?
Context
Polling by the Independent Society of Musicians revealed that nearly half of Scottish musicians have experienced less work in the EU since Brexit, and 40% had to cancel work due to increased costs.
John Whittingdale
We are working to ease touring for UK performers in Europe through visa-free routes with 24 out of 27 member states and continue engaging individually to improve conditions.
Session: EU Exit Creative Industries in Scotland
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Whether she has had recent discussions with representatives of the creative industries in Scotland on the impact of the UK's exit from the EU on those industries. Notwithstanding her previous answer, polling by the Independent Society of Musicians shows almost half of musicians have less work in the EU post-Brexit and 40% have cancelled work due to increased costs.
Context
Polling by the Independent Society of Musicians has shown that almost half of musicians in Scotland have had less work in the EU post-Brexit, with 40% having to cancel work due to increased travel and working costs.
John Whittingdale
We regularly meet representatives of creative industries in Scotland, including Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government. We have established visa-free routes for UK performers in 24 out of 27 EU countries to ease touring post-Brexit.
Session: EU Exit Creative Industries in Scotland
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Tonight, Scotland will play what amounts to a dead rubber because we have qualified for the Euros with two games to spare. It is an unusual feeling for us and we do not know quite what to do. Generations of young Scottish football fans, unlike their English and Welsh counterparts, are unable to see their national football team on free-to-air television. Scotland is one of only seven out of 55 UEFA countries where the national team is hidden behind a paywall. In these times when families are really struggling, does the Secretary of State think that is fair in principle?
Context
Scotland is one of only seven UEFA countries where national team matches are not available on free-to-air television.
Lucy Frazer (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport)
I did not catch all of the hon. Gentleman's question, but I think he asked about broadcasting rights and Scottish teams. He needs to understand, because he raises this question from time to time, that there is a balance between audience numbers and commercial revenues for sport. As he knows, sport is devolved to the Scottish Government—
Session: Topical Questions
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Many of us question this Government's moral compass, but the Network North plans give rise to concerns about their actual compass, with the provisions for Plymouth and Bristol. The first recommendation in the 'Union Connectivity Review' backed investing in the West Coast Main Line north of Crewe to properly use HS2 and its faster journey times and capacity to serve connectivity between Scotland and England. Yet Network North justifies continuing with HS2 phase 1 as it provides the most effective solution to…constraints on the congested southern end of the West Coast Main Line. So when will the Secretary of State deliver the upgrades north of Crewe to unblock the bottleneck to the Scottish economy and that of the north of England, including Chorley?
Context
The Network North plans raise concerns about the government's commitment to upgrading the West Coast Main Line north of Crewe, as recommended by the 'Union Connectivity Review'. The review suggests investing in this area to better utilise HS2 for improved Scotland-England connectivity.
Mark Harper
The hon. Gentleman will know that we have made it clear that we are going to make sure that high-speed trains can still continue past Birmingham on to the west coast main line. We have already had a debate in this House, and I believe we had this debate at length when I made my statement after the House returned last week, about the capacity on the west coast main line. The southern section is the most congested part, which is why we are continuing with phase 1. There is a debate to be had and people can have different views about where demand will go over the next 20 years. The view we have taken is that the priority is to focus on the transport needs of people now—[Interruption.] Well, in the north of England we are reinvesting £20 billion of the £36 billion we have saved, so we are putting the money where it would have been invested but on transport projects that are more relevant to people's everyday needs.
Session: Network North and HS2 Phase 2 Comparative Assessment
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How many extra millions of tonnes of carbon will be emitted due to this Government's back-pedalling on net zero?
Context
The MP is concerned about the delay in banning petrol and diesel cars, which might lead to increased carbon emissions.
Jesse Norman
There has been enormous progress in the area with £6 billion of new private investment being planned by ChargeUK, and one of the leading global mandates laid. The independent National Infrastructure Commission stated that if the roll-out continues to grow at the current rate, we will meet our target of 300,000 public chargers by 2030.
Session: Decarbonising Road Transport
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Given the recently announced NHS long-term workforce plan, what steps is the Minister taking to ensure that Scotland has the immigration we need for future recruitment and retention for our health service?
Context
BMA Scotland's Chair Dr Iain Kennedy stated that recruiting and retaining senior medical staff remains a challenge, with immigration surcharge cost increases potentially deterring foreign workers.
Helen Whately
We have the health and social care visa, which supports recruitment of doctors, nurses, and other professionals. The NHS workforce long-term plan will increase home-grown staff with 60,000 more doctors, 170,000 more nurses, and 70,000 allied health professionals over the next 15 years.
Session: Health and Social Care Recruitment EU Exit
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What recent assessment has been made of the impact of the UK's departure from the EU on trends in the level of recruitment in the health and social care sector?
Context
Since the UK's departure from the EU, concerns have been raised about the impact on healthcare staff recruitment. The Nuffield Trust previously noted increased costs and difficulties due to Brexit.
Helen Whately
Since Brexit, we have more than 13,000 more doctors and 48,000 more nurses working in the NHS in England, and 40,000 more full-time equivalent staff in adult social care. Our points-based immigration system means that we can recruit the talent we need from all over the world for our health and social care system, including from the European Union.
Session: Health and Social Care Recruitment EU Exit
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We know that phoenixing, unpaid-for services rendered, puts a burden on legitimate SMEs but also burdens the taxpayer. Given that the Minister did not accept my amendment to the Economic Crime and Transparency Bill, can he explain what the Government are actually doing to prevent this practice?
Context
Phoenixing is a practice that puts a burden on legitimate SMEs, as well as the taxpayer.
Kevin Hollinrake
I am happy to engage with the hon. Member. I missed the earliest part of his question, but we are providing an awful lot of support for small businesses in various ways.
Session: Topical Questions
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The SNP spokesperson criticises the government's approach and offers to join the Minister on a flight to Australia, questioning the contentment of letting charities fail amid financial pressures. The situation is attributed to Tory cost of living crisis. Only this Government has powers to intervene but refuses to do so.
Context
SNP member concerned about the impact of cost of living on charities in Scotland. Scottish charities are worried about survival due to reduced finances.
Stuart Andrew
The Minister does not recognise the described situation and announces £100 million in funding for community organisations. Some of this was distributed through Barnet formula. The Scottish Government has not provided information on their support for Scottish charities.
Session: Charity Sector Cost of Living
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What assessment has the Minister made of the effect of increases in the cost of living on the charity sector? According to CAF, over one-third of charities have had to make cuts to their services due to financial pressures. Three out of five Scottish charities are concerned about survival. The Government holds financial powers but refuses to intervene.
Context
The charity sector is experiencing increased demand and reduced income due to rising costs. The Charities Aid Foundation reports that more than a third of charities have had to cut services.
Stuart Andrew
The Government understands that cost of living pressures are affecting the charity sector. They have announced a funding package of over £100 million for community organisations in England. Some of this funding was distributed through Barnet funding formula. The Scottish Government has not provided information on their support for Scottish charities.
Session: Charity Sector Cost of Living
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In 2022, the Minister's Department said: “Increasing walking and cycling can make life easier and more convenient for people, whilst helping to tackle some of the most challenging issues we face as a society—improving health and wellbeing, improving air quality, combatting climate change and tackling congestion on our roads.” His Department's data confirms all that, including the role that low-traffic neighbourhoods play in all this. Now the Secretary of State has boasted that he has stopped funding for future LTNs as part of the two-thirds cut in active travel, which the local authorities do not have the money to build back up, due to the cuts they have had. Why are the Government pandering to Twitter warriors and not the data and those in their own party who support investment in active travel?
Context
The Department's data confirms the benefits of increasing walking and cycling, including improving health and wellbeing, air quality, combating climate change, and reducing congestion.
Jesse Norman
I find that surprising, if I may say so, because this Government are not only investing, but seeking to reduce any possibility of conflict between drivers of cars and cyclists. I do not think the hon. Lady should disagree with policies designed to reduce that conflict.
Session: Cycling and Walking Infrastructure
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Scots are used to getting a poor and unreliable cross-border rail service, but recently the cross-border air service provided by British Airways, particularly from Glasgow, has been awful. That said, we need to get on with decarbonising aviation, so when will we see the airspace modernisation process simplified and accelerated, not decelerated? When will the Government bring forward price stability plans for sustainable aviation fuels, which everyone bar the Treasury knows has to happen?
Context
Inconvenience of cross-border air service from Glasgow, emphasis on airspace modernisation.
Mark Harper
On the hon. Member's first point, the work on airspace modernisation is under way, as he knows. On his second point, this Government are leading the progress on sustainable aviation fuels worldwide. We published the new report, which set out some clear plans, and we published our response to it.
Session: Topical Questions
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The gap between Scotland and England on chargers is widening. Is it not time to admit that the Thatcherite deregulation model has failed completely?
Context
Scotland outperforms England in terms of EV infrastructure, publicly owned rail service without peak-time fares, more zero-emission buses and higher active travel spending.
Jesse Norman
Does not accept that at all, arguing state interventions will trigger private investment growth and ensuring equity across the country.
Session: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Outside London
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The Scottish rail incident highlights the need for government-led transport decarbonisation efforts. Scotland leads in renewables and electric vehicle infrastructure roll-out, with twice as many rapid chargers per head. Is it not time to admit that deregulation has failed?
Context
Scotland has a higher number of EV chargers per capita compared to England outside London, particularly Orkney and Aberdeen. The SNP argues for more government intervention.
Jesse Norman
Does not accept the argument but mentions state interventions will be necessary to trigger private investment, aiming for equitable spread across the country.
Session: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Outside London
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An Electoral Reform Society poll found that just 7% of people supported stuffing more peers into the Lords in the former former Prime Minister's resignation honours list. After just seven weeks in office, the former Prime Minister is seeking to anoint her Tufton Street supporters in the Institute of Economic Affairs and the TaxPayers Alliance as life peers. In a cost of living crisis, will the Government listen to the public and block both the Prime Minister's predecessors' resignation honours lists?
Context
The Electoral Reform Society poll found that only 7% of people supported the former Prime Minister's resignation honours list, which included controversial peers.
Jeremy Quin
As I say, this is a long-standing convention that has gone on under successive Administrations. It continues to be a convention. It is typical, according to convention, that the Prime Minister forwards lists on having received them from former Prime Ministers, but only after they have gone through the necessary and relevant checks; that does take place.
Session: Resignation Honours Lists
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Whether he has had recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the impact of the publication of the resignation honours lists on public trust in (a) politicians and (b) political institutions. An Electoral Reform Society poll found that just 7% of people supported stuffing more peers into the Lords, after he had already bloated the Lords with his brother, a Russian oligarch, cash-for-peerages Tory treasurers and now his father.
Context
The Electoral Reform Society poll found that only 7% of people supported the former Prime Minister's resignation honours list, which included controversial peers.
Jeremy Quin
It is a long-standing convention present under successive Governments that outgoing Prime Ministers can draw up a resignation list. Any names proposed are subject to the usual propriety checks.
Session: Resignation Honours Lists
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Women in my constituency have a healthy life expectancy of only 56 years. Why does the Secretary of State believe there is a 10-year difference between West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire, where health inequalities are stark?
Context
The UK's life expectancy ranking is low, attributed partly to poverty by Professor Martin McKee. The Scottish Government struggles with limited powers in addressing these issues.
Steve Barclay
The hon. Gentleman correctly points to the need to narrow health inequalities. We have committed to women's health hubs and targeted interventions like obesity, smoking, and lung cancer screening programs.
Session: Health Inequalities
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I am concerned about the UK ranking 29th globally for life expectancy and the impact of poverty on health inequalities. Despite Scotland's efforts, they are constrained by Westminster control over 85% of social security funding. What representations has the Secretary of State made to Cabinet colleagues and the Department for Work and Pensions regarding the damaging effects of their policies on life expectancy?
Context
The UK ranks low in global life expectancy, with Professor Martin McKee noting that poverty is a significant factor. The Scottish Government has limited powers to address this issue as Westminster controls 85% of social security.
Steve Barclay
The hon. Gentleman highlights an important issue. Following representations, the Chancellor's Budget announced additional funding to tackle health impediments to access to the labour market and a targeted action on smoking cessation including financial incentives for pregnant mums.
Session: Health Inequalities
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The Government had a relative paucity of ambition on Active Travel before slashing the budget. They now plan to spend less than £1 per head in England outside London, compared with £17 per head in Wales and £50 in Scotland—5,000% more. In the Transport Committee yesterday, the Secretary of State spoke of other Active Travel spending not in core funding, but we have that, too, with the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland—AMIDS—levelling-up project and the River Cart walking and wheeling bridge city deal project in my constituency. Without the waffle, what will the Government do to deliver transformational change?
Context
The Government's spending on Active Travel in England is significantly lower than in Scotland and Wales, with less than £1 per head compared to £50 in Scotland.
Jesse Norman
The Government are spending £3 billion on this area over the current spending period. Active Travel England is making an enormous difference to the quality of schemes throughout England. Significant amounts of money are going in through the levelling-up fund and through City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements and other schemes, so we believe that we are on track to meet our targets.
Session: Topical Questions
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What recent discussions he has had with DP World on the treatment of workers at P&O Ferries.
Context
The Seafarers' Wages Act received Royal Assent on 23 March, aiming to protect seafarers from being paid less than the national minimum wage.
Richard Holden
Our Seafarers' Wages Act 2023 received Royal Assent on 23 March and will protect seafarers who are working on vessels that operate regular international services to and from the UK from being paid less than the national minimum wage. It will boost the pay of thousands of seafarers who work tirelessly to maintain supply chains and transport passengers safely across our waters.
Session: P&O Ferries Discussions with DP World
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What are the Government's plans to ensure their targets for five plants operating by a target date are met, considering current funding?
Context
The MP questions the progress on decarbonising aviation through airspace modernisation and SAF production.
Jesse Norman
Free route airspace introduced in 2021 over Scotland is estimated to save the carbon dioxide equivalent of the power used by 3,500 family homes every year. The Government is taking a wide range of measures towards modernisation and SAF support.
Session: Aviation Noise and Fuel
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What recent progress he has made on the implementation of the zero emission mandate for electric vehicles?
Context
A technical consultation on the design features of the zero-emission vehicle mandate was held between April and June last year, with responses currently being analyzed. Industry is concerned about timing.
Jesse Norman
Thank you, Mr Speaker. It is great to see you in such robust form this morning, if I may say so. A technical consultation on the zero-emission vehicle mandate design's features was held between April and June of last year. Responses to that consultation are currently being analysed, and the Government will publish their response, alongside a final consultation on the full regulatory proposal, and an accompanying cost-benefit analysis, in the near future.
Session: Electric Vehicles Zero Emissions
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What assessment has the Minister made of the NFU's request to safeguard UK agricultural output? The questioner, a shareholder in a food company, is interested in understanding how this call will be addressed by the government.
Context
The National Farmers Union has called for measures to protect domestic food production in the face of economic pressures.
Mark Spencer
We have engaged with farmers at the NFU conference, recognising pressures on domestic producers. The Government provides grants to assist businesses in becoming sustainable. However, no specific details about the assessment or action plan are provided.
Session: Food Costs
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What recent discussions has the Minister had with Cabinet colleagues regarding the rising cost of food? The situation includes farmers bearing significant burdens due to energy-intensive production, yet not receiving similar support as less intensive sectors. Has he met the Chancellor to discuss better support for domestic farming?
Context
The UK is experiencing record high supermarket price inflation, with consumers paying £800 more annually on shopping bills. This increase is attributed to Brexit and rising agricultural costs.
Mark Spencer
The Department works closely with other Departments and industry to monitor price trends. The hon. Gentleman blames Brexit but global factors like Russia's invasion of Ukraine, affecting cereals supply and causing gas prices rise, also contribute. Farmers face challenges which the Government tries to help through grants.
Session: Food Costs
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Covid-19: Employment Rights
17 November 2020
Responding: Paul Scully
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the legal practice of fire and rehire, particularly in the aviation sector where British Airways and other companies have threatened workers with termination if they do not accept new contracts with reduced terms. This has affected thousands of employees across multiple companies including Centrica British Gas and Menzies Aviation. I received hundreds of emails from distressed staff. The current situation is that employees have no legal recourse, despite the UK Government's warm words."]
Specific Asks
["I ask the Minister to work with me to strengthen workers' protections in this area – perhaps in the Employment Bill. Additionally, can he give a timescale for introducing a single enforcement body for employment rights?"]
UK Infrastructure 10-year Strategy 2025-06-19
19 June 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
When this Government came to power, we were elected on a promise to deliver a decade of national renewal. We have already seen results with the fastest growing economy in G7 and real wages rising more...
Harland & Wolff
19 December 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Road Fuel Market
06 November 2024
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
Fuel pricing has been a concern for residents of Dunfermline and Dollar since the MP's election in July. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) found that weakened competition in the fuel sector ...
Flight Cancellations
05 November 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Terms and Conditions of Employment
14 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The draft order aims to increase the deterrent effect of the code of practice on dismissal and re-engagement, ensuring that employers are clear about their responsibilities when considering changes to...
Passport e-Gates Network Outage
08 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
War in Gaza
07 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Automated and Electric Vehicles (Amendment) Bill - Schedule 1 - Enforcement action under Part 1: procedure
01 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the clause to be read a Second time, introducing several new clauses and amendments aimed at enhancing data protection, consultation processes, accessibility for passengers, and addressing conce...
Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill - Instruction to the Committee on the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill that it has power to make provision in the Bill for it to extend to Northern Ireland.
29 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Finance (No. 2) Bill
17 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Minister of State at the Treasury, Nigel Huddleston, moved that the Finance (No. 2) Bill be now read a Second time. He highlighted improvements in inflation rates, real wage growth, national insur...
9
PMQs Asked
132
Ministerial Questions Asked
167
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+146% above average
This MP:
9
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+885% above average
This MP:
132
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3336% above average
This MP:
167
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Gavin Newlands's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.