Gregory Campbell
MP for East Londonderry
DUP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Discussions between the Treasury and Northern Ireland Departments proposed allowing retention of savings from reducing welfare fraud and error for direct investment in public services. Will the Deputy Prime Minister ensure the incoming PM looks at this approach again?
Context
Northern Ireland's Communities Minister is working to reduce welfare fraud and error, proposing that savings be retained by local departments to invest directly in public services. Proposals were blocked.
David Lammy
The Government prioritises tackling fraud in the welfare system by passing the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Act 2025, which enhances DWP's powers to prevent overpayments.
Assessment
Retaining savings from reducing welfare fraud for direct investment in public services was not addressed.
Tackling Fraud And Error Is A Priority
Session: PMQs 2026-07-08
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I have a constituent who, although not yet 30 years old, has just been diagnosed with a terminal illness. She has been told that she has a very short time to live. Because of her condition, she was given a retirement date—she is a civil servant—which was just last week. She has not received notification of any actual pension payment, and she has spent long hours trying to contact Capita. HM Revenue and Customs has claimed that all outstanding documentation was supplied to Capita in November. I have written to the Chancellor, and contacted the MPs’ hotline and Capita, but the issue remains unresolved. Will the Prime Minister, along with the Chancellor, help to get the issue resolved immediately?
Context
A constituent diagnosed with a terminal illness received a retirement date without notification of pension payment, despite prolonged efforts to contact relevant authorities.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank the hon. Member for raising this case, and I am truly sorry to hear about his constituent. If he would not mind following up with the details of the case, I will make sure that it is dealt with urgently on behalf of his constituent.
Assessment
The request for immediate resolution was acknowledged but no specific action beyond following up was committed to.
Follow-Up Suggested
Session: PMQs
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With ongoing financial pressures, is it the right time for an increase in the £3.7 billion licence fee budget?
Context
TV licence fee is due to rise in April; concerns over rising childcare costs and BBC staffing issues.
Rishi Sunak
We have agreed a settlement with the BBC to freeze the licence fee until 2024. The BBC needs to be realistic about affordability.
Assessment
Specific timing of TV Licence Fee increase
Freeze Until 2024 But Considering Affordability
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister is aware of problems warned about before the introduction of the Northern Ireland protocol. These issues will get worse from April. Will he outline a timeline for people in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK to enjoy free trade as enjoyed by other independent trading nations?
Context
Problems with the Northern Ireland protocol are expected to worsen in April, affecting free trade across the UK.
Boris Johnson
Yes, indeed. We will do everything we can to ensure untrammelled free trade and exchange of goods, people, services and capital through all parts of the UK, including invoking article 16 if necessary.
Assessment
Did not provide a specific timeline for when free trade would be restored
General Commitment To Ensuring Free Trade
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister will be aware that the Northern Ireland Executive have just announced new restrictions to bear down on the virus while still keeping schools open, with the exception of one extra week at Halloween, and keeping most sectors of the economy going, but the sectors that are missing are hospitality, the associated supply chains and the self-employed. What plans does he have to announce something to help these much needed sectors that are in dire need and need assistance urgently?
Context
The Northern Ireland Executive has announced new restrictions to combat the virus, excluding hospitality and supply chains from support.
Boris Johnson
I thank the hon. Gentleman. I am in continuous contact, as he can imagine, with the leader and the deputy leader in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland, of course, will receive at least £2.4 billion in additional funding as a result of Barnett consequentials, but we will look at further imaginative and creative measures to support jobs and to support livelihoods across the whole of the UK.
Assessment
Specific plans for supporting hospitality, supply chains, and self-employed
Session: PMQs
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What progress has been made on pensions for innocent victims of violence and will it ensure only innocent victims receive such a pension?
Context
Pressing the Government to provide a pension for innocent victims.
Boris Johnson
We have consistently maintained the principle that people must sustain injuries through no fault of their own.
Assessment
Specific update on progress towards providing pensions for innocent victims and assurance against perpetrators receiving pension
Consistently Maintained
Session: PMQs
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Does the Secretary of State agree that praising indefensible actions of republican dead does great harm to community cohesion?
Context
Community cohesion is threatened by divisive actions and statements from political figures.
Hilary Benn
Northern Ireland has been undergoing profound change since 1998. Progress is due to society moving beyond divisions, but ethnic minorities are now terrified by recent events and paramilitary displays.
Session: Community Cohesion 2026-07-08
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I am asking whether the Secretary of State will consult the devolved regions on the roll-out of small modular reactors, so that all the consumer and job opportunity benefits can be shared right across the whole United Kingdom?
Context
The Secretary of State is responsible for the roll-out of small modular reactors across the UK.
Ed Miliband
The hon. Gentleman makes a really important point. I am happy to give that undertaking. We want to see the opportunities around SMRs throughout the United Kingdom.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-07
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Will the Secretary of State join me in recommending that people visit the “06:29AM—The Moment Music Stood Still” exhibition that I and colleagues visited this morning in London, which shows examples of what happened on 7 October, so that we may all get more rounded information on why there is such a scale of horrendous murder in Israel and the Middle East?
Context
An exhibition, '06:29AM—The Moment Music Stood Still', aims to provide information on the scale of murders in Israel and the Middle East. The questioner seeks support for the event.
Yvette Cooper
We continue to condemn the horrendous attacks on 7 October, which were an act of the most barbaric terrorism by Hamas and left deep scars for families who lost loved ones. Huge trauma was instigated as a result and it was the worst attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last year, 6,397 knife criminals were sent to prison, and the average sentence was just over eight months. As the Government scrapped almost all sentences of less than a year, will the Justice Secretary say very clearly whether he expects as many knife criminals to go to jail next year as did last year?
Context
The question follows a statistic indicating that last year, over 6,000 knife criminals were imprisoned with an average sentence of eight months. The focus is on the government's policy change regarding sentences under one year and its implications.
David Lammy
The outrage under the last Government was watching knife crime go up year on year, while the hon. Gentleman was sitting in the Home Office—
Session: Knife Crime Strategy
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The Foreign Secretary's push for consensus is to be welcomed. Hopefully, the strait of Hormuz will be open shortly, which will lead to short and medium-term progress. In the longer term, does the Foreign Secretary agree that a lasting peace in the middle east will be more easily secured if we can take action against neighbouring states and elements within those states that threaten the absolute annihilation of the state of Israel?
Context
The question arises from the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, specifically concerning the Strait of Hormuz which is vital for international oil trade. The questioner references the need for regional peace and Israel's security.
Yvette Cooper
Israel's security needs to be protected, and so does the security of Gulf countries that have been attacked as part of this conflict. We need security right across the region. The hon. Gentleman says that we hope the strait will soon be open. We have proposed that, as an immediate confidence-building measure, the Iranians should agree to the International Maritime Organisation's proposal to start moving the stranded ships and the stranded seafarers. It could get on with that right now, even while negotiations are continuing.
Session: Gulf Conflict
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Does he agree that in any marking of the end of violence a key date is 1994, when the main violence perpetrators, the IRA, finally woke up to reality and declared a ceasefire?
Context
There is recognition that there was always an alternative to violence, which was finally achieved when the Good Friday agreement was negotiated and signed.
Hilary Benn
I say to the hon. Gentleman that there was always an alternative to violence—always.
Session: Good Friday Agreement
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The Secretary of State will be aware of the very high dependence in Northern Ireland on home heating oil. Although the Government have offered some help in the past 10 days, has consideration been given to what happens beyond the summer period if the crisis in the middle east continues over the next few months?
Context
There is a high dependence on home heating oil in Northern Ireland, with some government assistance already provided.
Martin McCluskey
We have supplied £17 million to the Northern Ireland Executive, and I had a constructive conversation last week with Minister Archibald about how that is deployed. We will keep other measures under review as the situation develops.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister have discussions with the Department of Justice and the Justice Minister in Northern Ireland to ensure that victims are not experiencing delays and prevarications in the court system?
Context
The question arises from concerns over delays and prevarications in the court system of Northern Ireland, which are causing victims to lose confidence.
Alex Davies-Jones
May I take the opportunity to wish the hon. Member a happy St Patrick's day today? I recently had the pleasure of visiting the island of Ireland and met the Irish Justice Minister, but we have regular conversations with our Northern Ireland counterparts as well to discuss how we can improve the system for victims as a whole.
Session: Justice System Victim Confidence
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Violence against women and girls continues to increase, with another woman killed in the past few days in Northern Ireland, and we need to take positive action to stem this misogynistic abuse of both women and girls. Will the Minister undertake to consult with the Northern Ireland Justice Minister?
Context
Violence against women and girls continues to increase in Northern Ireland, with another woman killed in the past few days.
Jess Phillips
The hon. Gentleman highlights another incredibly sad case. Of course, I work with the Justice Minister in Northern Ireland—we work very closely with all the devolved Administrations to make sure we are working together to deal with this problem collectively.
Session: Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls.
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At last year's spending review, the Northern Ireland Office announced a £2 million allocation to support the integrated education sector. Given that a range of schools in Northern Ireland have been offering an integrated educational ethos for many years, will the Government review that policy to support integrated education per se across a number of schools in Northern Ireland?
Context
Last year, the Northern Ireland Office announced a £2 million allocation to support the integrated education sector.
Matthew Patrick
We support integrated education, and integrated schools are a really important part of that. I was recently at some shared education schools, at the request of the Minister, and I was impressed by some of the work being done there, but I do not think there is just one route for schools in Northern Ireland.
Session: Education
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Has any assessment been made by the Minister or the Department of the comments made by the IEA?
Context
The International Energy Agency has recently commented that the UK has some of the highest energy prices in the western world. The MP asks for an assessment from the Department regarding these statements.
Martin McCluskey
I think where the IEA and I would agree is that we need to get off the rollercoaster of fossil fuels and ensure we are investing in clean home-grown energy that people across the country can take advantage of to lower their bills.
Session: Great British Energy Bills
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A transparency campaigner who availed himself of legal aid to take a case against the Government 17 years ago has appealed and reviewed my attempts to have the total cost of legal aid he received made public and, ironically, transparent. The case is still ongoing six and a half years later. Will the Justice Secretary have discussions with the Justice Minister in Northern Ireland to stop this attempt to prevent transparency?
Context
Mr Campbell discusses a legal case that has been ongoing for over six years due to an appeal regarding the transparency of legal aid costs.
Sarah Sackman
The hon. Gentleman will know that justice is a devolved matter. I am content for him to write to me, and I will look into this specific case. However, justice is, of course, a devolved matter.
Session: Topical Questions
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Engaging with and listening to stakeholders is good, but there needs to be a positive outcome to both. There also needs to be specific and clear references in the Bill to paramilitaries not being permitted to serve on the victims and survivors advisory group. Will that be the case?
Context
The MP is concerned about the exclusion of paramilitaries from serving on the victims and survivors advisory group.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I have already given the House that assurance from this Dispatch Box. When we consider the Bill in Committee, we will have the opportunity to debate the Bill in its current form and the many amendments that I can see have already been tabled.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles Bill
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Both this Government and the previous Government tried to get to grips with the increasing problem of the smuggling of illegal drugs into prisons. Can the Secretary of State indicate that, this time, this Government will get to grips with the problem so that people can be reassured that it is not a continuing and escalating issue?
Context
The issue of illegal drug smuggling into prisons has persisted despite efforts by previous governments to address it.
Lammy
The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right. That is why the £40 million that we are investing in drone technology in particular is important, but we are also investing in new X-ray machines across our prisons to drive down drug use.
Session: Topical Questions
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What progress has he made in supporting businesses in Northern Ireland that have supply chains in Great Britain? Will he step up his efforts to ensure there is no disadvantage for companies trading within Northern Ireland? Given the excellent UK-made zero emission buses built at Wrightbus, will he liaise with the Department for Transport and mayors in Great Britain to promote these purchases over those made in China?
Context
The hon. Member is concerned about the impact of supply chain disruptions on Northern Irish businesses trading within the region and highlights potential threats from Chinese-built buses compared to UK-made zero emission buses produced by Wrightbus.
Hilary Benn (The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland)
I have met businesses and representative bodies, including the Federation of Small Businesses and the Northern Ireland Business Brexit Working Group, to discuss supply chains and improve guidance on the Windsor framework. I agree with the hon. Gentleman about the quality of UK-made zero emission buses produced by Wrightbus and will continue to support the promotion of these vehicles over those made in China.
Session: Businesses with Supply Chains in Great Britain
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In light of the Minister’s dedication and urgency towards advancing nuclear energy through SMRs, the MP asked for confirmation that everyone across the UK would benefit from reduced electricity costs due to the construction of mini nuclear reactors.
Context
The Minister had previously outlined the Government's commitment to nuclear power, including small modular reactors.
The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)
We understand that reducing energy bills requires a clean power system, including stable baseload provided by nuclear. Interconnectors connect Northern Ireland to this network, although energy decisions are devolved there. We aim to minimise project costs while securing economic benefits. Once operational, these projects will deliver secure, clean UK-made power for generations, addressing the volatility of fossil fuels driving up bills.
Session: Clean Energy Transition New Nuclear Power
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Given the current situation with an increasing number of violent offenders and illegal substances in prisons, does the Minister agree that it is urgent to review the pension age for prison officers who are looking to retire earlier?
Context
The existing retirement age for prison officers and the increase in violent offenders and illegal substances in prisons raise concerns about the suitability of the current pension age.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Jake Richards)
It is absolutely right that we continue to have discussions with relevant trade unions about the pension age. We understand the challenges faced by prison officers, including harder work conditions due to an increase in violent offenders and illegal substances.
Session: Prison Officers Pension Age
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Can the Foreign Secretary help with the context of the middle east conflict? Specifically, can she provide an independent verifiable number for rocket attacks into Israel over different time periods?
Falconer
We have condemned rocket attacks into Israel throughout—both before and after 7 October. The nature of the rockets from Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad makes it harder to have a clear and indisputable number, but I will try to assist the hon. Gentleman on some of the other rockets.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome both the Minister to his place and the defence growth deal. Does he agree that he now needs to work with the Northern Ireland Executive to ensure that the supply chain in Northern Ireland extends beyond Harland & Wolff and the greater Belfast area, so that everyone in Northern Ireland can benefit from what is potentially a life-changing development for industry there?
Context
The MP welcomes the Minister to his place and highlights the defence growth deal. He suggests that the Minister needs to ensure supply chain extension beyond Harland & Wolff and greater Belfast area.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Matthew Patrick)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his warm words. He is right that we need to work across Northern Ireland to ensure that the life-changing investment he mentions is felt throughout, and I will make sure that happens.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy
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As the Chancellor tries to cut through the bureaucratic red tape around planning outlines, can she undertake that, if successful over the course of the next six to 12 months, she will share that success with the other regions and nations in the United Kingdom, so that we can all benefit from simplified planning procedures, which will bring benefits for all our constituents?
Context
The MP is interested in the success of planning reforms in England being extended to other regions in the UK.
Rachel Reeves (The Chancellor of the Exchequer)
Over the summer, I had the opportunity to spend some time in Belfast, where I visited Thales, the defence manufacturer, and Studio Ulster, where I saw some of the fantastic work in the creative industries. I also had the opportunity to talk about some of the blockers to growth. We need to better reform our planning system, not just in England but in Northern Ireland and Scotland as well, so that we can get things built in Britain again. People are crying out for hope. Growth offers hope and investment offers hope, and that is what this Government offer too.
Session: Planning Reform Economic Growth
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If the Government want to conditionally recognise the state of Palestine, would it not be better equally to make it a condition that any future state of Palestine does not threaten the right of the state of Israel to exist, and that if anyone carries out terrorist actions from any future state, they will be handed over to the international authorities?
Context
The issue of conditional recognition of the state of Palestine was reiterated, and concerns were raised about ensuring Israel's security in any future peace agreement.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
There have been important commitments about the future nature of any Palestinian state, including from President Abbas, who said that any such state would be demilitarised. There was absolute clarity in New York—where we made the announcement about the recognition decision—that Hamas can have no future role in Gaza and that a future Palestinian state must pose no threat to an Israeli state. Two states requires two states living in safety and security and posing no threat to each other.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister agree to hold discussions and consultations with the devolved structures in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales so this issue can be prioritised?
Context
The issue of eating disorders is escalating, and there's a need to address it through collaboration with the devolved administrations in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
We remain in close contact with all our colleagues in all the devolved Administrations. I will certainly be following up with officials as we develop the research programmes that we are working on, and as we integrate eating disorders into the broader work we are doing around mental health. Getting 8,500 more mental health workers and creating Young Futures hubs and mental health crisis centres is just some of the work that this Government are doing on this important issue.
Session: Mental Health Research Funding Eating Disorders
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Does the Minister agree that we should develop and promote co-productions throughout the nations and regions of the UK to see excellence and best practice everywhere?
Context
There have been a number of co-productions between BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Scotland.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
I do agree that we should be cooperating as far as possible. Steps have been taken to preserve home-grown content and talent through initiatives such as the UK Government’s independent film tax credit and high-end tax relief, which provide opportunities for industry growth. I would like to discuss how industries in Scotland and Northern Ireland could cooperate more effectively.
Session: Broadcasting Scotland
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There is a problem in our prisons across the United Kingdom. It is a two-spectrum problem, in that there is an increase in turnover, with prison officers leaving early, while the problem of the pension continues. Can the Minister increase the intensity of discussions with the POA to try to reach a more satisfactory outcome to which the Department and the prison officers concerned are amenable?
Context
There is an increase in turnover among prison officers, with staff leaving early due to dissatisfaction over their pension scheme. The current issue involves the need for more intense negotiations with the Prison Officers Association.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Sir Nicholas Dakin)
The hon. Gentleman makes a fair point. We need to make progress on this issue, and we are determined to do so.
Session: Prison Officer Morale Pension Age
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Tech businesses in Northern Ireland could benefit from a Heathrow logistics hub. Considering Ballykelly's large land base, nearby seaport, airport, and railway line, does the Minister see it as an ideal spot for such a venture?
Context
Potential for Ballykelly to become a logistics hub and tech business location.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Fleur Anderson)
Hon. Member is an excellent representative, and the plea for investment in Ballykelly as a location for such a hub has been heard.
Session: Investment Technology Businesses
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The Minister will be aware that the life and health sciences launchpad in Northern Ireland has so far funded 32 business-led projects. That is good news, but 23 of the projects are in the Greater Belfast area. Will the Minister join me and others in our efforts to ensure that there is greater knowledge about the launchpad across the whole of Northern Ireland so that we can all benefit from this very worthwhile project?
Context
Discussion about the distribution of projects funded by the life and health sciences launchpad in Northern Ireland.
The Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms (Chris Bryant)
Yes, indeed. When I was talking about the creative industries sector plan as part of the industrial strategy last week, exactly the same point was made. Belfast is obviously a great centre for innovation and the creative industries, but we need to make sure that the sector extends across the whole of Northern Ireland. It is a point that has been extremely well made.
Session: Health Science and Innovation
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Can the Foreign Secretary declare from the Dispatch Box that an Iran with no nuclear weapons is now a more likely prospect as a result of the actions of the Israeli and American forces over the past 10 days?
Context
The question refers to military actions against Iran and their impact on Iran's ability to acquire nuclear weapons.
David Lammy
I recognise the point that the hon. Gentleman has made, but let me make this clear to him. Once a country has acquired the ability to enrich uranium to 60%, that scientific knowledge is there and does not go away. Ultimately, this will require a diplomatic solution. That is what President Trump is pushing for, and that is what the UK Government want to see as well.
Session: Topical Questions
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Many GB-based horticultural companies, as well as other companies, want to supply British produce into Northern Ireland but have difficulty with the bureaucracy and paperwork. Will the Minister operate in concert with his colleagues in Cabinet and Government to eliminate the bureaucratic problems preventing those companies from supplying UK citizens in Northern Ireland?
Context
GB-based horticultural companies and other businesses face difficulties in supplying British produce to Northern Ireland due to cumbersome bureaucracy and paperwork.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
We have negotiated and are undertaking further negotiations with the European Union to improve systems that can help people achieve their goals of supplying British produce into Northern Ireland. We genuinely believe there are real opportunities here if we can eliminate some of the unnecessary bureaucracy.
Session: Public Bodies British Produce
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Does the Solicitor General understand the frustration, annoyance and anger of many people in the United Kingdom about the fact that we are paying the French authorities many millions of pounds to do what appears—at the moment anyway—to be very little to smash the gangs that we keep being told will be smashed?
Context
Many people in the United Kingdom are frustrated by the fact that millions of pounds are being paid to the French authorities for border security, yet there is little progress.
The Solicitor General
International partnerships are an incredibly important part of our plan to smash the gangs. Our recent work with the French Government in particular is bearing a great deal of fruit. In fact, we hope that the French will soon be able to address the situation that they currently cannot: when would-be migrants are in shallow water.
Session: People Smugglers Prosecution
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Economic growth will be supported by physical connectivity. One example is the new Grand Central station in Belfast, where there is some controversy over Irish language signage. The Secretary of State has commented that there are “so many more important things” in which to be involved, but setting that view aside, can he confirm that if there were no Executive at Stormont, he as Secretary of State would be in a position to make decisions on the station and other equally important issues?
Context
Discussion on the impact of physical connectivity, referencing the new Grand Central station in Belfast.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
The new Grand Central station is a magnificent piece of infrastructure, and I recommend any Members who have not yet had a chance to visit it to do so. I am not contemplating for one second that there will not be an Executive in place. Perhaps the single most important contribution that the Executive can make to continued economic growth in Northern Ireland is to stay in place and give confidence to those whom we are all working hard to encourage to come and invest in Northern Ireland’s economic future.
Session: Economic Growth
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Given the sheer scale of the outages in Portugal and Spain over the past few days, is it likely that the conference will consider and possibly conclude that there is some correlation between the obsession with net zero and what happened in Portugal and Spain?
Context
Concern about the recent power outages in Portugal and Spain and their potential correlation with climate goals.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Kerry McCarthy)
First of all, I am sure the whole House will want to send support to Spain and Portugal following the incidents yesterday. There were no effects in the UK, but we will continue to closely monitor the situation and any lessons learned from this event. I am not going to speculate as to its causes, but we do need to ensure that our own systems are as resilient as possible.
Session: UN Climate Change Conference 2025
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Will the Minister ensure that any future discussions with Northern Ireland Ministers about public sector reform include the need for employment practices and procedures in many parts of the public sector to result in workforces that are more broadly representative of the working-age population?
Context
Workforce challenges and representation issues in the public sector are ongoing concerns.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Fleur Anderson)
Workforce challenges are a huge part of public service transformation. Workers across Northern Ireland do fantastic work in health, education and justice, and they need to be supported to do that and to be representative of the community. Workforce issues are devolved, but they are important, and supporting our workforce, and working with unions to do so, is an important part of our working together in an active partnership with the Executive.
Session: Public Sector Reform
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On average, more than 130 people every week across the UK die from drug-related causes. That is more than 6,500 families and homes devastated each year by that tragic loss of life, including more than 200 in Northern Ireland alone. Will the Secretary of State commit to working with each of the devolved Administrations to prioritise prevention and review enforcement against the use of all illegal substances?
Context
The MP noted that more than 6,500 families are affected by drug-related deaths in the UK annually, with over 200 cases in Northern Ireland alone. He highlighted this as a significant societal issue.
The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (Shabana Mahmood)
The hon. Gentleman makes an incredibly important point. Fixing the problems that he notes requires work by not just the Ministry of Justice, but the devolved Administrations and the Home Office. I will ensure that he can engage with the relevant Ministers on the issues he raises.
Session: Topical Questions
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Economic growth through infrastructure development could be helped in Scotland and Northern Ireland with more money going to Cairnryan port and the road infrastructure to it. Allied to that, any help that the Department, the Minister and the Chancellor could give in resolving EU-related trading issues would considerably help Northern Ireland business as well as Scottish business.
Context
The MP pointed out the potential economic growth from investing in Cairnryan port and improving road infrastructure. He also mentioned resolving EU-related trading issues to benefit businesses.
Darren Jones (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
The hon. Member will know that the Government have entered negotiations with our counterparts in the European Commission to improve trade between the UK and the European Union. I had a great meeting to discuss these issues last week in Cardiff with Finance Ministers from the Northern Ireland Executive as well as from Scotland and Wales, and noted that we have given a record-breaking increase in funding to the devolved Governments, so that they can get on with such projects, working in partnership with us where we still have responsibility.
Session: Economic Growth New Transport Infrastructure
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The situation remains difficult. In fact, the Horticultural Trades Association said that it remains “impossible” for some retailers who are trying to order products from GB-based companies for consumers in Northern Ireland. Everyone can complain about that, but some of us are trying to do something about it. The Government are the people who can bring pressure to bear to resolve this problem for consumers in Northern Ireland, so what action is being taken to try to resolve it?
Context
The situation remains difficult for retailers in Northern Ireland trying to order products from GB-based companies, according to the Horticultural Trades Association.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Fleur Anderson)
Officials from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs are following up specifically with the companies that are most affected, such as seed shipping companies. Shipping seeds is allowed, using phytosanitary certificates, but business-to-business posting is currently smoother than business-to-consumer posting. Solutions to this issue are being worked out within the requirements of the Windsor framework, and guidance should be updated shortly.
Session: Movement of Horticultural Goods
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Given that there are about 9 million displaced people in one of the most significant humanitarian catastrophes that the world faces today, will he impress on the African Union and partners the need for urgent action to try to resolve this situation?
Context
The MP is concerned about the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict, with over 9 million displaced people.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
The hon. Gentleman is right to ask that question. I went to the Adré crossing not just to spend time with the overwhelming number of women and children who are fleeing the conflict, but to announce £20 million in additional support for refugees and, in particular, for access to reproductive and sexual health services on that border. The situation is grim; it is horrific, and has been given too little attention, and I intend to ensure that we do all we can to bring it to an end.
Session: Conflict in Sudan
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Given the backlog in Crown court appearances, and the increasing tide of knife crime as well as criminal activity against women and girls, what steps are the Department taking to ensure that the Crown Prosecution Service is adequately provided for so that justice is seen to be done in the wider community?
Context
The MP is concerned about the backlog in Crown court appearances, increasing knife crime, and criminal activity against women and girls. He asks what steps are being taken to ensure adequate CPS funding.
Lucy Rigby (Solicitor General)
The hon. Member makes an important point; this Government are working very hard to do that. The settlement for the CPS that I referred to was an extra £49 million, and it is spending some of that on increasing the number of prosecutors who are able to do the important work to which he refers.
Session: CPS Prosecutors
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There are a small number of people who, through due process, appear in court and are convicted, but who decline to come up to the court room for sentencing. The Secretary of State has indicated her intention to move on this. Does she agree that the Government need to show a very robust approach, so that people who show disdain and contempt for the rule of law are shown that there is no room for manoeuvre and that they must and will appear in court?
Context
The MP highlighted the issue of defendants who are convicted but refuse to attend their sentencing hearings, causing additional trauma for victims' families.
Shabana Mahmood (The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice)
The hon. Member is right. It is already expected that defendants will attend sentencing hearings, but we know that some take the opportunity not to face the families of their victims, which causes huge trauma to some of the families. We will clarify and put on a statutory footing the expectation of attendance at sentencing hearings, along with sanctions for dealing with offenders who still, despite being compelled to attend court—even through the use of reasonable force—seek to disrupt hearings.
Session: Sentencing Attendance of Offenders
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Does the Secretary of State agree that the job of the commission is made more difficult by reprehensible incidents such as Sinn Féin First Minister Michelle O’Neill attending a commemoration for IRA terrorists? The MP raises concerns about the possibility of compensation payments to individuals like Gerry Adams.
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of recent events and political stances on the process of reconciliation in Northern Ireland.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
The Secretary of State acknowledges the complexity of the process but welcomes the fact that Michelle O’Neill attended Remembrance Sunday commemorations. He emphasizes that people will express their views about past stances taken.
Session: Legacy Discussions
View All Questions -->
Is the Minister indicating today that there will be a new start in the Care Quality Commission, and that things will change for both staff and the recipients of care?
Context
The CQC has been undergoing reform and leadership changes following a critical report by Dr Penny Dash, indicating significant failings in its operations.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
The hon. Gentleman makes an excellent point, particularly with regard to staff, who need support to continue their important work. A new start with new leadership is what they need, as well as implementation of the recommendations.
Session: Care Quality Commission
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024
15 July 2025
Responding: Seema Malhotra
Main Concerns
['Successive UK Governments have determined how nationality in Northern Ireland is dealt with through internationally binding agreements such as the Anglo-Irish agreement, Belfast Agreement and St Andrews agreement. However, people born after 1949 who moved from what is now the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland faced difficulties obtaining a British passport without going through an expensive naturalisation process.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks for equitable treatment of individuals based on their nationality choice within the UK constitutional framework and highlights the need for people with Irish passports to have access to British embassy protection.']
Horticulture Trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland
25 March 2025
Responding: Fleur Anderson
Main Concerns
['The horticultural sector supports over 700,000 jobs across the UK. The original protocol agreement presented substantial difficulties for horticultural businesses in GB when supplying Northern Ireland. Although there have been some improvements, these do not get us where we need to be and only pick at a scab that remains intact.']
Specific Asks
['The Government needs to make progress on outstanding problems so that a simpler system is in place to enable people of all backgrounds to purchase goods within their own country. The current situation threatens the sustainability of tree nurseries, employment, and rehabilitation efforts for inmates.']
High Street Retailers
05 February 2025
Responding: Gareth Thomas
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member highlighted the significant challenges facing high streets across the UK, citing Mary Portas's prediction that the future of the high street involves 'less retail but better retail.' He emphasised the critical state of high street retailing and warned that without dramatic intervention, the high street as we know it will die."]
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member called for innovative solutions to support independent retailers, particularly during prime months like Christmas, suggesting a charging structure to benefit local businesses. He also mentioned the need for Government Ministers to introduce such measures to ensure that some benefit is accrued to local people.']
Illegal Drug Use and Organised Crime
06 March 2024
Responding: Laura Farris
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the escalating issue of drug use exacerbated by organised crime, with estimates suggesting that the value of illegal drugs in the UK is between £9 billion and £9.5 billion annually. The total cost to society, including hospitalisations and treatment, exceeds £18 billion to £19.5 billion. Drug-related deaths have increased significantly across the UK, particularly in Northern Ireland where they rose by nearly 100% between 2012 and 2020. Additionally, there is a growing problem internationally with drug cartels causing significant harm.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the government to ensure that national and international authorities are informed about the issue of illegal drugs being dispatched from hotspots such as central America or eastern Europe. I also request an assurance that the National Crime Agency will focus on this issue continuously, not just after major drug seizures, but on an ongoing basis.']
BBC Commissioning: Oversight
24 October 2023
Responding: John Whittingdale
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the BBC's adherence to its principles of editorial integrity, fairness, and transparency. For instance, the corporation's handling of salaries and contract commissions awarded to private companies owned by BBC presenters has been problematic. Specifically, I raised issues regarding Third Street Studios, a company owned by Stephen Nolan until recently transferred to Paul McLean. Additionally, there is an issue with the disclosure of contracts for programmes like 'The Fall,' which was funded by public money but details remain undisclosed."]
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government and the BBC to ensure that all public funds used are spent with integrity. This includes transparency in contract commissions awarded to private companies owned by BBC employees, disclosure of contract details after a period of 20 years, and thorough investigations into allegations of unfair practices such as rigging recruitment processes.']
BBC Local Radio
17 January 2023
Responding: Julia Lopez
Main Concerns
['The downgrading of BBC Radio Foyle, which serves the north-west region of Northern Ireland, is causing concern. The decision to axe the breakfast-time programme and reduce news bulletins could leave listeners uninformed during critical times like bad weather conditions when local radio stations act as lifelines.']
Specific Asks
['The government should seek meetings with the BBC to ensure that programmes are reflected on a local basis, preserving the role of local reporters in covering stories that might not be accessible from central locations.']
Northern Ireland Residents: British Passports
18 October 2022
Responding: Steven Baker
Main Concerns
['The issue of passport ownership for Northern Ireland residents unites people across different backgrounds and traditions, including those who describe themselves as British, Irish, or Northern Irish. Despite this unity, the Home Office does not provide British passports to residents born after 1949, even if they have lived in Northern Ireland their entire lives. This contrasts with the ease of obtaining an Irish passport for those choosing to identify as Irish. The speaker cited a case where individuals must pay £1,330 to naturalise and obtain a British passport, while others can easily apply for an Irish passport without additional costs or requirements.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP requests the Home Office to address the discrepancy in passport acquisition processes and recognise Northern Ireland residents as eligible for British passports, irrespective of their place of birth after 1949. He hopes that this will rectify the insult felt by many who have lived in Northern Ireland all their lives.']
BBC Accountability and Transparency
15 March 2022
Responding: Nigel Huddleston
Main Concerns
["The BBC lacks transparency in the allocation of licence fee moneys, particularly regarding on-screen talent salaries and external interests. The process for commissioning programmes is also problematic as it favours certain insiders over independent media companies. There are concerns about the impartiality of the BBC's coverage during events such as the pandemic and political incidents like President Trump's press conference."]
Specific Asks
['The Minister should raise these issues with the BBC to ensure greater accountability and transparency in how licence fees are spent, particularly addressing the commissioning process to level the playing field for independent media companies.']
Pathways Study: Puberty Suppression
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Belfast: Violent Disorder
10 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
North Belfast: Violent Attack
09 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Northern Ireland Troubles Bill - Motion to carry over the bill to next Session
27 April 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to ensure that proceedings on the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill continue into the next parliamentary session. The Bill is essential to address the legacy of the troubles, which ha...
Foreign Financial Influence and Interference: UK Politics
25 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Point of Order
24 February 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Mr Campbell raised a point of order regarding the non-flying of the relevant flag on St Patrick’s day, which he has mentioned before. He inquired if Mr Speaker had received any indication from the Dep...
Northern Ireland Troubles Legacy and Reconciliation 2026-01-21
21 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Northern Ireland Troubles Operation Kenova 2025-12-09
09 December 2025
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland make a statement on the latest publication from Operation Kenova and the Government’s response to its findings?
BBC Leadership 2025-11-11
11 November 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Northern Ireland Troubles 2025-10-14
14 October 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
68.4%
67 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
38
38.8% of votes
No Votes
29
29.6% of votes
Abstentions
31
31.6% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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 NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
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 NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
6
PMQs Asked
118
Ministerial Questions Asked
66
House of Commons Debates Involved
8
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+780% above average
This MP:
118
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+218% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1258% above average
This MP:
66
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-1% below average
This MP:
68.4
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 Gregory Campbell's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.