Gregory Stafford
MP for Farnham and Bordon
Con
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
First, we had a Chancellor who embellished her CV, then we had a Transport Secretary with a fraud conviction, and now we have an anti-corruption Minister who is being investigated for corruption. I know that the Prime Minister likes living in free accommodation, but does he really think that it is appropriate that his Minister is being given free housing by the political allies of some very dubious foreign regimes?
Context
The question concerns the anti-corruption Minister who is being investigated for corruption, following previous issues with embellishing CVs and fraud convictions among ministers.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
The City Minister has acted appropriately by referring herself to the independent adviser. We brought in our new ministerial code to allow Ministers to ask to establish the facts, and I am not going to give a running commentary on that important exercise.
Assessment
The questioner questioned the appropriateness of the situation; PM did not address the specifics but mentioned a new ministerial code instead.
Has Acted Appropriately
Not Going To Give A Running Commentary
Session: PMQs
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World War Two veteran Anne Puckridge has flown 5,000 miles to discuss frozen pensions which deny pension increases for expatriate Brits. Will the Prime Minister reconsider his decision and meet her?
Context
Anne Puckridge, a war veteran flying from Canada to meet the PM, is campaigning against frozen pensions. She represents half a million Brits who face pension denial.
Keir Starmer
I am grateful to the hon Gentleman but our position is a continuation of the previous Government's approach.
Assessment
Did not address the request for reconsideration or meeting Anne
Continuation Of Previous Government'S Stance
Session: PMQs
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As the Health Secretary is a numbers man, perhaps he will be interested in these figures. Research from Policy Exchange shows that sickness absence in the NHS costs £6 billion and removes 8 million clinician days from the frontline. What will the Secretary of State do to get staff back to work, to get patients treated, and to get this ridiculous level of staff absence down?
Context
Research indicates that NHS staff absence costs £6 billion and removes 8 million clinician days from frontline care. The MP is seeking concrete steps to address this issue.
James Murray
The 10-year health plan committed to our ambition to reduce sickness absence from 5.1%, which it was in July 2025, to the lowest recorded level in the NHS, at approximately 4.1%. As I set out in my earlier remarks, staff standards cover health and wellbeing, line management, flexible working, tackling violence and racism, and championing sexual safety. The staff treatment hubs that I mentioned, which will be rolled out in 2027, will focus on mental health and back conditions, which are the main reasons for absence.
Session: NHS Workforce Sickness Absence 2026-07-14
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What steps he is taking to reduce sickness absence in the NHS workforce?
Context
The question addresses the issue of high levels of sickness absence among NHS staff, which impacts service delivery and costs the organisation significantly. The MP is seeking specific steps to address this.
James Murray
This Government are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our hard-working NHS staff, and we have set an ambition to reduce sickness absence to its lowest recorded level. As part of meeting that ambition, we have launched new staff standards to improve their working lives, and we will introduce staff treatment hubs to focus on the biggest causes of sickness absence.
Session: NHS Workforce Sickness Absence 2026-07-14
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The Government promised during the election to cut bills by £300; in fact, they have gone up by £300. With that level of financial acumen, the Secretary of State will fit right in at the Treasury, but my constituents and local businesses want their bills cut now, not at some nebulous point in the future. When he gets to the Treasury, will he remove taxes on our energy industry so that bills actually come down?
Context
During the election, the Government promised to cut energy bills by £300 but instead they have increased by that amount.
Ed Miliband
The hon. Gentleman raises an important issue. The way to get bills down is to drive for clean energy, which the Conservatives oppose. Why have bills gone up in the last few months? Because of the Iran war.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-07
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Behind every statistic and delayed case is a pensioner who is not receiving their pension. The end-of-June deadline is approaching. Does the Minister genuinely believe that Capita will meet this deadline? What sanctions or remedial actions are planned if it fails?
Context
Capita's performance failures in the Civil Service Pension Scheme have resulted in delayed pensions for public servants, affecting families left behind after a constituent's father died tragically.
Satvir Kaur
The Cabinet Office has held Capita to account robustly using all commercial levers. Capita has a strict end-of-June deadline and if it fails, we will consider all options including sanctions.
Session: Civil Service Pension Scheme
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What recent discussions has he had with Capita on the performance of civil service pension scheme administration? Behind every statistic is a constituent who is not receiving their pension after years of public service. One case from Farnham took nine months to resolve, and the end-of-June deadline is approaching.
Context
Capita is responsible for managing the UK's Civil Service Pension Scheme, but there are ongoing performance issues including missed targets and a backlog of cases.
Satvir Kaur
The Cabinet Office has held Capita to account robustly using all commercial levers. Capita has until end of June to restore the service to contractual levels. If it fails, all options including sanctions will be considered.
Session: Civil Service Pension Scheme
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What is the Department doing with the Ministry of Defence and international partners to ensure that this is a sustained approach, rather than a one-off?
Context
The UK has implemented new powers allowing military interdictions of vessels linked to Russia. However, there have been no actual interceptions yet.
Stephen Doughty
The hon. Gentleman will understand that I am not going to comment on future operational matters. We have assisted in the interdictions of other vessels, including by working with the French and the United States in relation to the Bella 1.
Session: Russian Oil Sales
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We are losing over 1,000 jobs a month in our oil and gas industry, and despite what the Secretary of State has just said, we are not seeing a similar uptick in green jobs. Skilled workers are losing their jobs in oil and gas, and are actually leaving the country. The Government's actions are making the United Kingdom poorer and less secure, and we are waving goodbye to highly skilled jobs. How can the Secretary of State honestly tell this House that there is a transition going on?
Context
Concern over job losses in the oil and gas industry, with skilled workers leaving the country due to lack of green jobs opportunities.
Douglas Alexander
Look at the work being done, and the investment being made, by Iberdrola and ScottishPower. The hon. Gentleman shakes his head, but that is real investment delivering real jobs. If he would like to comment further on this issue, perhaps he would like to apologise for the abject absence of a plan from the previous Conservative Government on the North sea, which explains the fact that they lost 70,000 jobs on their watch.
Session: Renewables Sector Employment
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What discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on levels of employment in the renewables sector in Scotland. Last week, the CBI revealed that the UK's green economy has created more than 1 million jobs. In Scotland, the industry generated £10.2 billion and supported more than 105,000 jobs.
Context
There is concern over employment levels in the renewable energy sector, particularly in Scotland.
Douglas Alexander
Producing the clean energy we need is not only right for our energy security and our climate; it is the right thing to do for jobs and investment. Last week, the CBI revealed that the UK's green economy has created more than 1 million jobs. In Scotland, the industry generated £10.2 billion and supported more than 105,000 jobs, predominantly benefiting local small and medium-sized enterprises and communities all around Scotland.
Session: Renewables Sector Employment
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At my constituency surgery on Friday, Mr De Mesquita spoke about his concerns that Report Fraud is not passing victim details of identity fraud to local police forces. Given the vulnerability of these individuals and their likelihood of being victims of other crimes, will the Minister let us know what he is doing to ensure such information gets passed on?
Context
Mr De Mesquita raised concerns that Report Fraud is not passing victim information to local police forces, potentially leaving vulnerable victims at risk.
Dan Jarvis
I am grateful for the hon. Gentleman's point and will raise it with Lord Hanson. The Government have invested £250 million in working with various organisations like law enforcement, GCHQ, banks, telecoms, tech partners, and civil society to reduce fraud levels. We also invested £31 million in a new online crime centre.
Session: Identity Fraud
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On the Secretary of State's watch, the courts backlog has reached record levels, yet his answer is to weaken one of the oldest rights in our justice system: trial by jury. The backlog was not caused by juries and it will not be solved by scrapping juries. The Bar Council says there is very little evidence for the Government's approach, while the Institute for Government estimates that it would save at most about 2% of court time, and even that may be generous. Why will the Government not drop this ill-judged proposal and focus instead on the serious reforms needed to cut the backlog and speed up justice for victims?
Context
The court backlog has reached record levels under the current government's watch, despite claims that trial by jury is being weakened.
David Lammy
If the hon. Gentleman were serious, he would get on top of the detail. We are not scrapping juries; juries remain a cornerstone of our system. Just as Margaret Thatcher made changes to the jury system, and just as the Blair Government made changes to the jury system, we are making changes to bring down the backlog.
Session: Jury Trial Proposals
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As the Government's reforms to special educational needs and disabilities provision focus on pushing children into mainstream education, they risk removing specialist support from many who need it. Will the Secretary of State meet me and relevant groups to ensure that he does not allow SEND reforms to damage the chances of young people with special educational needs and disabilities to secure long-term, sustainable work?
Context
The questioner raises concerns about the Government's reforms to special educational needs and disabilities provision, which focus on pushing children into mainstream education but risk removing specialist support from many who need it.
Stephen Timms
I welcome the hon. Member's consistent interest in this important topic, and he will know that the SEND reforms have been well received. Our youth guarantee will apply to young people with special educational needs and disabilities, and trailblazers are trying out new approaches.
Session: Topical Questions
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Happy St George's day, Mr Speaker. When was Jonathan Powell appointed as the Prime Minister's special envoy to the British Indian Ocean Territory, and what security clearance was he given on appointment.
Context
Jonathan Powell was appointed to a position related to the British Indian Ocean Territory, with questions about his security clearance.
Darren Jones
I do not have that information to hand.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given the ongoing national security concerns, including the risk of foreign interference in elections, will the Home Secretary set out what her Department is doing to ensure that individuals convicted of terrorism offences are prevented from standing for elected office in the UK?
Context
Ongoing national security concerns, including risk of foreign interference in elections.
Dan Jarvis
As the hon. Gentleman knows, these are matters that we take very seriously and are addressing through the work of the defending democracy taskforce.
Session: Topical Questions
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A few moments ago, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster indicated to me that the appointment of the head of the propriety and ethics team was done by an external recruitment process. Will he tell me how many other people were interviewed?
Context
The questioner seeks information on the number of candidates interviewed for the role of head of the propriety and ethics team, which was announced by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.
Darren Jones
If the hon. Gentleman is making reference to his previous question, he asked me if the appointment was in breach of the rules, to which I said no. As I have said to the House in answer to previous questions, the appointment of the head of propriety and ethics is on an interim basis, which is fully in line with the rules. A proper recruitment process will take place shortly.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Minister confirm whether the head of the Government's propriety and ethics team was appointed without an external recruitment process or written ministerial sign-off, in an apparent breach of its own rules? If so, is this further proof of a lack of transparency and accountability, and of a failure to uphold the propriety and ethics at the heart of this Government?
Context
The questioner asks about the process of appointing the head of the Government's propriety and ethics team, suggesting it may have been done without an external recruitment process or written ministerial sign-off, potentially in breach of rules.
Darren Jones
No, and no.
Session: Peter Mandelson Release of Information
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What recent progress has been made on implementing the humble Address of 4 February 2026.
Context
The questioner inquires about the progress made on implementing the Humble Address of 4 February 2026, which is a formal request or statement from the House of Commons.
Darren Jones
As I have outlined previously, work is ongoing across Departments to identify the material relevant to the Humble Address. Throughout this process, the Government have recognised the urgency and seriousness of fully complying with that Humble Address, and that is why we will publish relevant materials in tranches, the first of which we have committed to publishing in early March.
Session: Peter Mandelson Release of Information
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Jimmy Lai now faces a jail term described by Ministers as an effective life sentence. It is clear that his life sentence directly reflects this Government's weak policy on China, so will the Minister tell us what clear steps she and the Prime Minister are taking, and—more importantly—what sanctions she and the Prime Minister will put on the Chinese, to ensure that Jimmy Lai is released, and that his case is not forgotten?
Context
Jimmy Lai, a British citizen, faces a jail term described as an effective life sentence following politically motivated persecution in China. The questioner believes the government's weak policy on China directly impacts Jimmy Lai's case.
Seema Malhotra
We continue to keep sanctions under close review. It would not be appropriate to speculate on any future designations, since doing so could reduce their impact, as the hon. Member knows. However, although we will not get into the details of any private discussions on Jimmy Lai, the Government will continue to raise his case at every opportunity, as the Foreign Secretary, the previous Foreign Secretary and the Prime Minister have done. Diplomats from our consulate general in Hong Kong have attended all court proceedings, and continue to press for consular access.
Session: Jimmy Lai
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Jimmy Lai now faces a jail term described by Ministers as an effective life sentence. It is clear that his life sentence directly reflects this Government's weak policy on China, so will the Minister tell us what clear steps she and the Prime Minister are taking, and—more importantly—what sanctions she and the Prime Minister will put on the Chinese, to ensure that Jimmy Lai is released, and that his case is not forgotten?
Context
Jimmy Lai, a British citizen, faces a jail term described as an effective life sentence following politically motivated persecution in China. The questioner believes the government's weak policy on China directly impacts Jimmy Lai's case.
Seema Malhotra
We continue to keep sanctions under close review. It would not be appropriate to speculate on any future designations, since doing so could reduce their impact, as the hon. Member knows. However, although we will not get into the details of any private discussions on Jimmy Lai, the Government will continue to raise his case at every opportunity, as the Foreign Secretary, the previous Foreign Secretary and the Prime Minister have done. Diplomats from our consulate general in Hong Kong have attended all court proceedings, and continue to press for consular access.
Session: Jimmy Lai
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A thousand jobs a month are being lost as direct result of Government's decision while importing more at high cost with emissions. Bills up for my constituents. Why not rectify and sort out problem?
Context
Thousand jobs lost monthly due to the government's decision regarding EPL. Energy costs are rising for constituents despite imports increasing at higher prices.
Douglas Alexander
Trend in North sea production did not emerge yesterday; mature basin with 75% reduction in production between 1999-2024. UK net importer since 2003, lost more than 70,000 jobs from the basin under Conservatives.
Session: Energy Profits Levy Gas Sector
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What discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of the energy profits levy on the oil and gas sector in Scotland. Oil and gas will play a vital role for decades but there is an urgent need to manage transition properly.
Context
Discussions about the potential economic impact of the energy profits levy on the Scottish oil and gas industry, which has seen significant job losses.
Douglas Alexander
First, I respectfully remind that it was the Conservatives who brought in the energy profits levy in 2022. Oil and gas will be a central part of the UK's energy mix for decades to come but there is also recognition of a transition needing management. The Chancellor confirmed at the Budget we are ending EPL on 31 March 2030.
Session: Energy Profits Levy Gas Sector
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The fact that the taskforce has not even met, seven months later, tells us everything we need to know about how urgent and important the Government consider this issue. In Leeds, families are losing faith in the failing maternity services. The Secretary of State said that he takes the matter “extremely seriously”, yet Donna Ockenden—who exposed the failings in Nottingham, has the support of families, and has said that she is ready and willing to lead the inquiry—has not been appointed. If the Minister and the Secretary of State take this issue extremely seriously, why have they not appointed a chair yet?
Context
The lack of meetings by the maternity taskforce is raising concerns about the urgency and importance given to improving maternity services.
Zubir Ahmed
I see that the brass neck of the hon. Gentlemen's predecessor has been transplanted to him. He talks about seven months, but what about the last 14 years, through which the Conservatives presided over the decay and decline of our NHS? They failed our patients and the clinicians who serve them. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is in regular contact with maternity families and, like me, he takes the matter extremely seriously. He will report to this House on the outcome of his deliberations on a regular basis.
Session: Disabled Women Maternity Care
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What assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of energy infrastructure-related technologies imported from China on security?
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential impact of energy infrastructure-related technologies imported from China on national security.
Katie White
This Government take energy security extremely seriously. We run one of the world's safest, most reliable energy systems, and we are a top destination for investment. Investment in our energy infrastructure undergoes the highest level of national security scrutiny.
Session: Energy Infrastructure Technology Chinese Imports
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Given reports from Norway and Denmark that Chinese-manufactured electric buses contain remote kill switch technology, and that recent UK-China engagement appears to have delivered an embassy for the Chinese and little more than a Labubu for the United Kingdom, how can the Minister be confident that Chinese-made energy infrastructure does not pose similar national security risks? What steps is she taking to remove our reliance on Chinese-made infrastructure?
Context
Reports from Norway and Denmark suggest that Chinese-manufactured electric buses contain remote kill switch technology, raising concerns about the national security risks of importing energy infrastructure technologies from China.
Katie White
That is slightly audacious, given that when we left government in 2010 we had, I think, three of the top solar companies in the world, but when we came back into office we had nothing—there was no supply chain. National security is this Government's No. 1 overriding priority. We are engaging constructively with every opportunity and all actors but at the same time making sure that every single decision takes into account our national security, which comes first above anything else.
Session: Energy Infrastructure Technology Chinese Imports
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What plans her Department has to tackle the special educational needs and disabilities funding shortfall identified in the Office for Budget Responsibility’s “Economic and fiscal outlook” of November 2025? In Surrey, the high needs block deficit is forecast to rise to £165 million by 2027. Although Conservative-run Surrey county council has earmarked £144 million in reserves to ease that pressure, that cannot be a long-term solution. Can the Minister confirm whether and when Surrey’s safety valve agreement will be extended?
Context
The Office for Budget Responsibility identified a significant funding gap in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). In Surrey, the high needs block deficit is projected to rise to £165 million by 2027.
The Minister for School Standards (Georgia Gould)
We recognise that the size of deficits that councils are accruing while the statutory override is in place might not be manageable with local resources alone. We will be setting out more information in the local government settlement this year.
Session: SEND Funding Shortfall
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Is he as concerned as I am that children under the age of 13 will be asked sexually explicit questions?
Context
Part of the PATHWAYS trial involves asking children under 13 to complete a questionnaire on romantic relationships, which raises concerns about sexual questioning.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
All Members are concerned about young people's distress when seeking services, and it is important that all parts of the trial follow ethical and clinical guidelines. The PATHWAYS study follows such guidelines.
Session: Puberty Suppressants
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The questioner raised concerns about conflicting information regarding the timing of the courts Bill, asking for a confirmation on when the legislation is coming forward.
Context
The Justice Secretary’s plan has faced backlash from Labour Back Benchers, causing No. 10 to reassure that legislation will not be introduced until October next year, but the Justice Secretary's team insists it will come in February.
Lammy
We are serious about bringing down the backlog, and that means we want to introduce our courts Bill in the early part of next year. There is no contradiction between No. 10's reassurance and the Justice Secretary’s team's insistence on February.
Session: Topical Questions
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When Labour published the strategic defence review, the independent authors wrote in The Telegraph that the commitment to spending 3% of GDP on defence was “vital” to establishing the affordability of that review. Now the Government’s own service chiefs are voicing their concern over funding. Is the Minister really telling us that he has no idea in what year they will reach 3% and no plan for how they are going to get there?
Context
When Labour published their strategic defence review, independent authors stated that the commitment to spending 3% of GDP on defence was vital for its affordability. Now, current service chiefs are expressing concerns over funding levels, questioning the Government's readiness and planning.
The Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry (Luke Pollard)
We are increasing defence spending with £5 billion extra in our budget: it will be 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and 3% of GDP in the next Parliament. The strategic defence review was written on the basis of reaching 3%, and that is a key part of how we are increasing defence spending.
Session: Defence Investment Plan
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On Tuesday, my hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk (Nick Timothy) raised with the Foreign Secretary concerns expressed by the United States, Dutch, Swiss and Swedish Governments regarding the reported presence of data cables running beneath Royal Mint Court. I note that the Cabinet Office has since denied the reports to the press. Will the Minister now provide clarity that his colleague at the Foreign Office could not, and give a clear yes or no answer to this House as to whether any such cables run beneath or in the vicinity of the site?
Context
Concerns have been raised about the potential presence of data cables beneath Royal Mint Court, a site proposed for the construction of the Chinese embassy.
Dan Jarvis (Minister of State, Cabinet Office)
I reiterate that the Government have considered the breadth of national security considerations. Both the Home Secretary and the Foreign Secretary have been clear about this. We work closely with our allies, particularly Five Eyes partners, to ensure collective national security.
Session: Proposed Chinese Embassy
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I welcome the fact that the Minister has announced the development of a palliative care and end-of-life care modern service framework for England. However, hospices across the country, especially in my constituency, tell me their biggest problem is the national insurance rise. For example, a children's hospice covering my constituency tells me that the £90,000 extra it has to pay in national insurance could have funded three nurses. What discussions has the Minister had with the Chancellor ahead of tomorrow’s Budget to ensure that hospices, and indeed other health and social care organisations, are exempt from any national insurance rises, either in the past or in the future?
Context
Campaigners from across political parties and charities have been advocating for a national palliative care strategy. Hospices are facing financial difficulties due to the increase in National Insurance contributions.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
I notice he did not welcome the fact that we are supporting the hospice sector with a £100 million capital funding boost and £80 million in revenue funding for children’s hospices over three years. We also notice that Conservative Members do like to welcome the additional investment generated from the last Budget, but they do not seem to welcome the means by which it was generated, so I would say to them: what would they cut or what taxes would they put up to pay for what we are doing to get our NHS back on its feet and fit for the future?
Session: Palliative Care Strategy
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Was the Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris wrong when he said that there were no new protections for veterans in the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill?
Context
The Northern Ireland Troubles Bill includes new protections for veterans that were not present in the previous act.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
There clearly are new protections for veterans in the troubles Bill—throughout the legislation—that were never in the previous legislation that the last Government passed. We have laid them out to the House, and the veterans community and others can see clearly what they are.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023
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On 25 September, the Prime Minister assured the BBC that veterans would receive protections not afforded to paramilitaries, so can the Secretary of State confirm which of the statutory protections will apply solely to veterans? Or is it the case that they will also extend to paramilitaries?
Context
The Prime Minister assured the BBC that veterans would receive protections not afforded to paramilitaries.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I will give the hon. Gentleman one example, which involves the representation of veterans on the statutory advisory group that will be established, drawing on the experience of Operation Kenova, allowing the voice of veterans to be heard. This will be covered by clause 8 of the legislation.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 Replacement
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What assessment she has made of the potential impact of the autumn Budget 2024 on family farms in Wales. Although the aims of the sustainable farming scheme are laudable, many farmers across Wales are expressing real concern about its complexity, the potential reduction in food production and the adequacy of the financial support on offer. What assurances can the Minister give that the scheme will be simplified, sufficiently funded and implemented in a way that supports both the environmental goals and the economic viability of Welsh farming communities?
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential impact of budget cuts or policy changes on family farms, particularly regarding financial support and sustainability.
Nia Griffith
The Government are steadfastly committed to family farms in Wales, which is why we protected the farm budget at its current level and allocated £337 million to the Welsh Government at the autumn Budget. The scheme will have a transition period, with the basic payment scheme available for those not in the SFS, although that will be reduced by 40% next year. The Farming Union of Wales has said that the plan provides 'workable payment rates and much needed stability for the sector.'
Session: Family Farms
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The Lord Chancellor rightly rejected murderer Alan Jermey’s Parole Board request for open conditions, for which his daughters and I are extremely grateful. I understand that Mr Jermey is now legally challenging the decision, so will the Lord Chancellor revisit my request for a meeting with her about this issue?
Context
The Lord Chancellor rejected murderer Alan Jermey's request for open conditions, but he is now legally challenging the decision.
Shabana Mahmood
The hon. Member will know that, with a judicial challenge, there will be some constraints as to what I can say publicly, and indeed even privately in a meeting. I will take advice to ensure that nothing compromises the legal process.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Minister may be aware that the outline business case for improvements to the A31 at Hickley’s Corner in Farnham will come before her in a couple of months’ time. While I understand that she cannot make any promises now, will she at least agree to look kindly on that application and meet me to discuss it?
Context
The outline business case for improvements to the A31 at Hickley’s Corner in Farnham will be presented soon.
Lilian Greenwood
I look forward to seeing that business case when it comes forward, and I will of course be happy to discuss it with the hon. Member at the appropriate time.
Session: Topical Questions
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What commitment can the Minister give that the community diagnostic centres programme will be used effectively to diagnose and treat not just endometriosis, but all conditions listed in the women’s health strategy?
Context
The community diagnostic centres programme was started under the previous Government to diagnose and treat endometriosis.
The Minister for Equalities (Seema Malhotra)
We are taking forward a number of measures as part of the women's health strategy, including establishing 41 women’s health hubs in England’s integrated care systems to support and tackle women’s health issues by shifting care out of hospitals.
Session: Endometriosis
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The rushed local government reorganisation means that Waverley borough in my area will be forced to join other authorities that are debt-ridden, such as Woking. What will the Secretary of State do to ensure that residents in my area do not pay a financial price for the woes of other authorities?
Context
Local government reorganization has led to concerns about financial sustainability, especially for councils that are merging with debt-ridden authorities.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Angela Rayner)
As set out in the invitation letters, there is no proposal for council debt to be addressed centrally or written off as part of reorganisation. However, the Government accept that Woking and Thurrock councils hold significant unsupported debt that cannot be managed locally in its entirety. We have committed to providing an initial amount of debt repayment support for these councils in 2026-27 ahead of the reorganisation.
Session: New Unitary Authorities
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The Secretary of State claims to support change, yet delays to NHS reorganisation, including to the promised abolition of NHS England, suggest otherwise. Is it not the truth, as he outlined in his Guardian article, that he is bogging the system down in a slow, top-heavy restructuring, while resorting to tax rises, instead of delivering the decentralised, locally delivered, value-for-money healthcare that our constituents deserve?
Context
In his Guardian article, Gregory Stafford criticised the delay in abolishing NHS England as part of NHS reform.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
A lot of words and not a lot of sense. We are reforming the NHS and, as a result of these changes, redirecting hundreds of millions of pounds to the frontline. What was the Conservative party’s response to the abolition? The shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, the hon. Member for Brentwood and Ongar (Alex Burghart), said it could be a “great thing”, but it could be a total disaster.
Session: NHS England Abolition
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The Secretary of State claims to support change, yet delays to NHS reorganisation, including to the promised abolition of NHS England, suggest otherwise. Is it not the truth, as he outlined in his Guardian article, that he is bogging the system down in a slow, top-heavy restructuring, while resorting to tax rises, instead of delivering the decentralised, locally delivered, value-for-money healthcare that our constituents deserve?
Context
In his Guardian article, Gregory Stafford criticised the delay in abolishing NHS England as part of NHS reform.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
A lot of words and not a lot of sense. We are reforming the NHS and, as a result of these changes, redirecting hundreds of millions of pounds to the frontline. What was the Conservative party’s response to the abolition? The shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, the hon. Member for Brentwood and Ongar (Alex Burghart), said it could be a “great thing”, but it could be a total disaster.
Session: NHS England Abolition
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Pubs and the hospitality industry are by their very nature seasonal businesses and rely heavily on flexible working patterns. Why is the Minister, through the powers in the Employment Rights Bill, seeking to end the flexible contracts that benefit these young people, which will end up causing pubs to have to close?
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential negative effects of the Employment Rights Bill on flexible working patterns in pubs and the hospitality sector, which relies heavily on such flexibility.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
I gently remind the hon. Gentleman of the dismal record of the Conservatives when it came to support for the hospitality sector; 10,000 pubs closed between 2010 and 2024. The Employment Rights Bill will not have the effect that he describes. The Bill will help to put money into people’s pockets, which is exactly what we need to do to help the hospitality industry going forward.
Session: Hospitality Industry
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The Government’s decision to extend the listed places of worship grant scheme for only 12 months, with a reduced budget and cap, has caused significant unease in my constituency. Will the hon. Lady join me in urging the Government to continue at least previous support for projects that have already received planning permission?
Context
The Government's decision to extend the listed places of worship grant scheme for only 12 months, with a reduced budget and cap, has caused significant unease. The rector of Farnham is concerned about a nearby project that faces a £750,000 shortfall.
Marsha De Cordova
I raised my concerns with the Secretary of State when I met him and will write to the hon. Gentleman on potential funding opportunities for churches in Farnham, but did not explicitly commit to urging the Government to continue previous support.
Session: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Taxation: Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
03 February 2026
Responding: Dan Tomlinson
Main Concerns
['SMEs are struggling with higher taxes, soaring energy bills, and rising financial costs. Research shows that two in five SMEs do not know if they were profitable last month. The hospitality sector faces a significant increase in business rates, with the average pub seeing its rates rise by 15% in the first year and climbing to 76% by year three.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should abolish business rates for businesses with bills under £110,000 and consider a reduced VAT rate of 12.5% for hospitality to support growth and improve competitiveness.']
Alcohol Duty: UK Wine Sector
11 November 2025
Responding: Dan Tomlinson
Main Concerns
["The United Kingdom imports 1.7 billion bottles of wine annually, accounting for 99% of all wine consumed in the country. The sector generates over £76 billion in economic activity and supports £22 billion in gross value added, sustaining more than 400,000 jobs. However, with taxes making up over 60% of a bottle's cost, producers are facing significant challenges."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should consider introducing a small duty relief scheme for small wine producers similar to the one in place for beer and cider makers, to help support small vineyards that contribute significantly to rural employment and innovation.']
UK-China Relations
26 March 2025
Responding: Catherine West
Main Concerns
["Since Brexit, the UK has sought to diversify its economic relationships beyond Europe, leading China to become the third largest trading partner. However, this relationship presents security risks due to China's use of slave labour in supply chains, particularly in solar panels and wind farms. Over 1 million Uyghur Muslims are imprisoned in forced labour camps in Xinjiang, with UK industries dependent on materials from that region."]
Specific Asks
['Gregory Stafford urges the Government to clarify whether they will take measures similar to those taken by the US to address slave labour and ensure compliance with human rights standards. He also calls for legal requirements for companies to comply with sanctions against slave labour in supply chains.']
Project Gigabit
26 November 2024
Responding: Chris Bryant
Main Concerns
["Broadband access remains a critical issue in rural areas. Despite progress, significant disparities persist between urban and rural broadband coverage. In the constituency of Farnham and Bordon, only 65.5% of premises have gigabit-capable broadband compared to 81% nationally. Specific villages like Dippenhall and Greatham suffer from extremely poor connectivity with speeds as low as 1 megabit per second. These challenges affect constituents' access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities, exacerbating digital inequality."]
Specific Asks
['The full £5 billion allocated to Project Gigabit should be retained, funding should be divided proportionately between urban and rural areas, and non-commercially viable regions must receive priority investment. The Labour Government must ensure that no community is left behind in the digital age.']
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Points of Order
15 July 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Asked for advice on how to secure a substantive response from the Department for Transport regarding the A31 corridor scheme funding arrangements, highlighting concerns over delays in communication an...
Iran
15 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker highlighted the critical situation in Iran, noting Britain’s armed forces' commendable work. He mentioned recent US strikes against Iranian targets, stressing the need for a diplomatic sol...
Civil Service Pensions
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Puberty Blockers
23 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
As a consultant paediatrician, Caroline Johnson highlights the ethical concerns surrounding the PATHWAYS clinical trial that involves administering puberty-suppressing hormones to children with gender...
Backbench Business
15 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to express concern over the state of NHS dentistry, noting that nearly 14 million people in England could not access dental care. Highlights issues such as lack of availability for children in S...
Health and Social Care Bill
01 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, James Murray, moved the Second Reading of the Health and Social Care Bill. He emphasised the personal significance of the NHS in his life due to a ra...
Backbench Business
23 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Congratulated her colleague on securing the debate and highlighted the crucial role of allied health professionals in delivering the NHS's three shifts, especially in paediatric care. She cited exampl...
Peter Mandelson: Government Appointment
21 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
13 April 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Mr Stafford moved that the House believes SEND is an issue affecting every constituency, acknowledges challenges families face in navigating a complex and under-resourced system, and supports reforms ...
Attendance
70.3%
64 of 91 votes
Aye Votes
37
40.7% of votes
No Votes
27
29.7% of votes
Abstentions
27
29.7% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED NO
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
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
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: 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
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
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
03 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
2
PMQs Asked
64
Ministerial Questions Asked
70
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
91
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
-45% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+377% above average
This MP:
64
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1340% above average
This MP:
70
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 (%)
+2% above average
This MP:
70.3
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 Stafford's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.