Harriett Baldwin
MP for West Worcestershire
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The Prime Minister says he is concerned about the cost of living, so can he explain why he allowed his Local Government Minister to give permission for Reform-led Worcestershire county council to inflict that 9% council tax hike on my constituents?
Context
Reform-led Worcestershire county council is implementing a 9% council tax hike.
Keir Starmer
Reform has to take responsibility for its decisions. Its Members have moved out.
Assessment
The questioner's criticism and request for an explanation was ignored.
Attacks On Opposition Party
Session: PMQs
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Last weekend, Tenbury Wells faced severe flooding from Storm Bert. With a fully developed flood defence plan in place that needs £2.4 billion to be implemented, will the Prime Minister commit to funding this scheme and addressing the town's infrastructure issues?
Context
Tenbury Wells was flooded for the second time this year during Storm Bert. A fully developed flood defence plan is partly funded and requires £2.4 billion to proceed.
Keir Starmer
I am grateful to raise this awful situation. We are committed to tackling it, which is why we set aside money in the Budget. I will arrange a meeting with the relevant Minister for further discussion.
Assessment
Specific commitment to funding the scheme and addressing infrastructure issues was not provided
Session: PMQs
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I thought that socialism was about taxing those with the broadest shoulders in order to help the most vulnerable, but it appears that Starmer socialism involves scaring those with the broadest shoulders out of the country while taking away the winter fuel allowance for frail 90-year-olds living in draughty homes. Will the Prime Minister apologise to my shivering constituents for his personal choice, and will he reverse this chilling decision?
Context
The decision to scrap winter fuel payments was taken by the government.
Keir Starmer
My choice is to stabilise the economy after 14 years of failure, and I will tell the House why: when a Government lose control of the economy, it is working people who pay the price. I will not let that happen under a Labour Government.
Assessment
Did not directly address apologizing or reversing the decision on winter fuel payments.
Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about the opposition's stance after hearing their rhetoric against our proposed tax cuts. Will Labour vote against today's tax cuts?
Context
Baldwin expresses anticipation for voting on a national insurance tax cut proposal.
Rishi Sunak
Conservative Members believe in rewarding hard work by cutting taxes by £900 each for thousands of constituents. In contrast, Labour continues to cling to unfunded spending promises that would increase taxes.
Assessment
Specific voting intentions of the opposition party were not addressed
Rhetorical Questions
Contrast With Opposing Party
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister back our local plans to reopen our much-loved Malvern Hills College, and does he agree that Warwickshire College Group should negotiate the sale in good faith and not resort to using public money to sue our district council?
Context
Local community groups are working to reopen Malvern Hills College, which is part of Warwickshire College Group. The college sale has led to a dispute with the district council.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this issue. I of course recognise the valuable work that all colleges do in meeting local skills needs, and very much welcome local community groups working together to address gaps, as her local area is doing. My understanding is that my right hon. Friend the Education Secretary is in discussions with the college, and I know that my hon. Friend will continue making representations to her.
Assessment
The PM did not commit to backing reopening plans or fair negotiation explicitly
We Are Always Happy To Look At Where We Can Do More
I Know That The Transport Secretary Will Look Into
Session: PMQs
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Can I tell a tale of two councils? My constituents who live in Conservative-controlled Wychavon District Council have enjoyed six years of council tax freezes and excellent public services, while my constituents who live in the Malvern Hills District Council area, which is run by a rag-tag-bag of so-called independents and Greens, pay nearly 50% more in council tax for a band D property. Does the Prime Minister agree that the best thing my constituents can do on the cost of living is to vote Conservative on 4 May?
Context
The questioner highlights the difference in council tax rates between Conservative-controlled and Labour-controlled councils, suggesting that voting Conservative would be beneficial for constituents.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is of course right. Right across the country, those who live in Conservative council areas pay lower council tax than those in Labour council areas. The choice at this election is clear: it is the Conservatives who deliver for you and it is Labour that costs you.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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Will the Deputy Prime Minister, as a former Foreign Secretary and Development Minister, commit to backing the work of Education Cannot Wait which delivers education in refugee camps?
Context
The questioner seeks support for Education Cannot Wait to deliver education in refugee camps.
Dominic Raab
My hon. Friend is absolutely right about the brilliant work that Education Cannot Wait does. We will look at what more we can do to support that work, particularly for children growing up in refugee camps.
Assessment
Does not commit explicitly to backing Education Cannot Wait's specific work but acknowledges its value.
Vague Commitment
Session: PMQs
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The eyes of the world are rightly focused on Putin's evil invasion of Ukraine, but there is still a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. I welcome the fact that, later this month, the UK Government are hosting a pledging conference for that crisis. Will my right hon. Friend ensure that we also keep education for those poor children on the agenda?
Context
The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is critical, with a major conference planned by the UK Government to address it.
Dominic Raab
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. We will keep the focus on Afghanistan and the many other conflicts around the world that need our support. That particular conference will provide specific support for girls to access education, which is a long-standing priority of the Prime Minister. We have doubled our humanitarian aid to Afghanistan for the financial year to £286 million.
Session: PMQs
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Twelve years of quality education for every girl in the world is probably the single most transformative thing we can do to improve the world. I remember working with my friend Uhuru Kenyatta on that declaration and we will certainly ensure that everybody at the Commonwealth meeting signs up to it.
Context
No specific background given, but related to global education initiatives.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend very much for everything she does to support education for girls. Twelve years of quality education for every girl in the world is probably the single most transformative thing we can do to improve the world. I remember working with my friend Uhuru Kenyatta on that declaration and we will certainly ensure that everybody at the Commonwealth meeting signs up to it.
Session: PMQs
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Will my right hon. Friend commit to changing elements of the algorithm when the consultation closes tomorrow?
Context
The Prime Minister pledged to increase homebuilding but the current formula allocates too many homes, potentially harming rural areas.
Boris Johnson
We are committed to a planning system that gives young people home ownership opportunities without desecrating countryside and green belt.
Assessment
Commitment to changing the formula was not addressed directly
Session: PMQs
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Harriett Baldwin inquires if the PM agrees with Andy Street's view that poor performance by West Midlands Trains warrants an inspection and potential franchise revocation by the Secretary of State for Transport.
Context
Performance of West Midlands Trains for constituents has been woeful, prompting concerns from local authorities.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Johnson confirms that he has discussed this with Andy Street and is looking at the whole issue. He mentions that the bell tolls for West Midlands rail, indicating potential scrutiny or action.
Session: PMQs
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I welcome the Chancellor to his new role. I paid close attention yesterday to the long speech he made to reset the narrative and drive growth Britain. In paying tribute to his predecessor, will he recognise that she left the highest tax burden on record? Instead of postponing the words he could utter to my hon. Friend the Member for Havant (Alan Mak), could he make a short speech today from the Dispatch Box to say that he does not plan to increase the tax burden further?
Context
The question arises in the context of the new Chancellor's role and the economic narrative set by the Labour Government. The previous Conservative government is noted for its high tax burden and economic instability.
John Healey
I could have spoken a lot longer yesterday. I am grateful to the hon. Member for watching or reading it. In the two years of this Labour Government, we have started to see this country beginning to turn a corner. That is a corner after 14 years in which the previous Tory Governments had a record of low growth and high debt, and a mini-Budget that crashed the British economy and collapsed confidence in Britain's fiscal strength. This country has huge strengths in its people, its businesses and its communities, who want to seize the future. Interest rates have been cut six times since the election; borrowing, which is still too high, is down to a six-year low; growth was fastest in the first half of this year in the G7; and productivity and investment are finally, after long Conservative years, beginning to tick up. That is the basis on which we now build.
Session: Economic Growth 2026-09-08
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Will he agree today to compensate all Horizon victims, and get Fujitsu to pay towards it by the end of the year?
Context
The question asks about compensating victims of the Horizon IT system failure and getting Fujitsu to contribute.
Peter Kyle
The Minister responsible has met victims regularly. We are accelerating the compensation and justice from what we inherited, delivering the justice and compensation that people require.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-02
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What plan does the Secretary of State have for improving these metrics?
Context
The question highlights various negative economic indicators such as business confidence, unemployment and inward investment.
Peter Kyle
Our fundamentals are going in the right direction with growth up and inflation down. We have got more growth into our economy in two years than the Conservatives achieved multiple years before the election.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-02
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I will carry on with the same theme, because it is clear from all sides that there are real issues with the element of the steel strategy that imposes a 50% tariff on 1 July. It is affecting manufacturing businesses up and down this country, and it is being done in a way that not only threatens manufacturing jobs, but increases inflationary pressures. Can the Minister tell the House what impact assessment he has done on the effect of these measures on inflation and on jobs?
Chris McDonald
I reiterate the point that the action that the Government have taken has been to correct an issue in the market. We have taken wide representation. In fact, we amended the list as a result of some of that representation. The shadow Minister’s point about inflation goes exactly back to the point that I made earlier. This country cannot be in a position where we say that we are prepared to buy the cheapest thing, wherever it is made in the world, to the sacrifice of our own industry. We cannot allow foreign Governments’ industrial policies to drive our own industrial policy. That is why we have taken this action—similar action to that taken by the EU. It comes down to a question of whose side are you on. Are you on the side of British industry, like the Government, or are you on the side of overseas industry? That seems to be the case being prosecuted by the Opposition.
Session: Steel Strategy
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The Employment Rights Act is cited by one in eight business leaders for considering leaving Britain, with 30% of the rich list having left due to high taxes. Will you lobby the Chancellor to scrap the family business tax?
Context
One in eight business leaders are considering leaving Britain due to the Employment Rights Act and family business tax. The Sunday Times rich list shows 30% have already fled.
Kate Dearden
Economic growth is a priority, but insecure work cannot build a strong economy. The Employment Rights Act aims to reverse previous damage and ensure an economy that works for everyone.
Session: Employment Rights Act 2025
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There was a new private sector investor in the Royal Mail last year. As we heard yesterday in the House, the regulator has let the universal service obligation slip, so will the Minister update the House on how his colleague's meeting with the regulator went yesterday?
Context
The MP is concerned about the service level of the Royal Mail and wants to understand how the meeting with the regulator went.
Chris McDonald
The Minister responsible for the Post Office and the Royal Mail, my hon. Friend the Member for East Renfrewshire (Blair McDougall), is sitting beside me. Just yesterday, he spent 90 minutes in the House answering questions from Members who have had problems with the service across the whole of the country; I have seen such problems in my constituency as well. The Government are clearly not happy with the level of service from the Royal Mail, and the shadow Minister will hear a full response to Question 15, when my hon. Friend will stand at the Dispatch Box and tell her everything that she needs to know about that particular meeting.
Session: Private Sector Investment
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Of course, there are lots of well-paid jobs in the steel sector. In fact, the taxpayer is now subsidising every job at British Steel to the tune of £110,000. Can the Secretary of State update the House on how his negotiations are going with Jingye, and on when he will finally publish his long-awaited steel strategy?
Context
The MP is concerned about the negotiations with Jingye and the long-awaited steel strategy.
Peter Kyle
I am very grateful for the hon. Lady's question. Of course, after 14 years of the Conservatives running the steel industry, we have landed in a place where this Government are having to sort it out. I can reassure her that the negotiations with Jingye are well under way. I will update the House shortly on progress and, of course, on the strategy that I have been working very hard on, with colleagues, on behalf of the steel industry.
Session: Job Creation
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With the fuel duty freeze coming to an end in September and the next fiscal event not happening until later in the year, will the Chancellor commit to reviewing that decision at the end of this parliamentary Session if petrol prices are significantly higher than they are today?
Context
The Chancellor has announced a fuel duty freeze, set to expire in September. With the next fiscal event scheduled later in the year, there is concern about the impact of higher petrol prices on the cost of living.
Rachel Reeves
The price of petrol today is 8p per litre lower than if I had followed the plans that were left to me by the previous Conservative Government. From April, it will be 11p per litre lower. Oil prices today are 24% lower than they were yesterday, so things are very volatile at the moment. The most important thing we can do to address the cost of living challenges people face is to de-escalate the conflict in the middle east.
Session: HMRC Approved Mileage Rates
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Yet again, the Business Secretary is not here for his departmental questions. He is in China trying to sort out British steel strategy issues that are costing taxpayers £2 million a day. Given the situation, what is a good outcome? Additionally, due to Royal Mail’s unacceptable service during Christmas, what has been done to hold Royal Mail accountable?
Context
The UK steel industry is facing significant challenges, including a £1 billion compensation demand from Chinese owners of the Scunthorpe furnace. The Business Secretary's absence during departmental questions leads to criticism.
Chris Bryant
Regarding steel strategy, the government is working towards a positive outcome for British steel trade. The plan to address this issue will soon be published, providing solutions to the concerns raised by the Conservative Party. Concerning Royal Mail's service issues, an Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade plans to meet with Royal Mail next week to improve nationwide postal services.
Session: Topical Questions
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To add insult to injury, the letter from MHCLG about business rates change gives different information compared to the Treasury website. Will the Minister commit to getting in touch with his Cabinet colleague to correct these letters?
Context
Retail and hospitality businesses are experiencing enormous rate hikes despite promises of permanent lower business rates.
Chris Bryant (Minister of State, Department for Business and Trade)
When the Conservatives left government, they had not provided a single penny to make sure the cliff edge would not affect every small business. We will look into the letters mentioned but the Conservatives need to get with the programme.
Session: Small and Medium-sized Businesses
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The Chancellor justified at the Dispatch Box what a working person is. Will she reiterate at the Dispatch Box now what she said to the British public during the general election campaign, which is that her forthcoming Budget will not raise taxes on working people?
Context
During the general election campaign, the Chancellor promised that her forthcoming Budget would not raise taxes on working people.
Rachel Reeves
We will set out all our Budget measures at the Budget.
Session: Topical Questions
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I associate myself with the remarks about British Beauty Week. In addition to beauty businesses, one of the key ingredients for growth on our high streets is having a post office in the mix. As Post Office Minister, he has inherited a network of 11,500 post offices across the country and a consultation on the size of that network. Can he echo what his predecessor said at the Dispatch Box, and commit to supporting our high streets by maintaining the scale of the post office network throughout this Parliament?
Context
The Post Office Minister has inherited a network of 11,500 post offices across the country and is currently consulting on its size.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Blair McDougall)
I thank the shadow Minister for her welcome. She is absolutely right about the anchoring effect of post offices on high streets all over the country. We know not just that, as we mentioned in the Green Paper, if people go to their post office they are likely to spend money in local shops, but that post offices are essential—as I found out during a visit to one the day before yesterday—in giving small businesses somewhere to take their takings. The Green Paper set out the options for maintenance of the post office network, and it is certainly our intention to maintain it.
Session: Small and Medium-sized Businesses
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I welcome the all-new ministerial team to their positions. They have inherited a crisis, because business confidence has plunged to a record low since the Chancellor’s Halloween budget a year ago today. Will the Business Secretary assure this House that he will find and demonstrate his backbone, stand up to the Chancellor, and encourage business investment by following Conservative plans to reduce welfare spending so that we can scrap the family business tax and cut small business rates?
Context
Business confidence has dropped to a record low since the Conservative Chancellor's budget last Halloween. The question addresses the need for increased business investment.
Peter Kyle
I am very grateful to the hon. Lady for welcoming me to the Dispatch Box. We are very aware that we inherited a crisis—a crisis created by the Conservative party, including the state in which they left our global relations, the lack of growth in the economy and the effects of the mini-Budget. The reputation of our country was in tatters as a result and our public services were on their knees, but all of those things are being turned around because of the decisions taken by this Chancellor. The Conservatives should be celebrating the fact that we had the fastest growing economy in the G7 for the first six months of this year, because these are the kinds of actions that show we are getting growth and stability back into our economy, and give businesses the predictability upon which to build future success and prosperity and the creation of jobs. The Conservatives should be celebrating that, not talking our country down.
Session: Investment in Businesses
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The gov.uk website, which has not been updated since 8 May, states that the Prime Minister negotiated the 25% steel tariff down to zero, but that is not right, is it? Steel faces a tariff of 25% today and runs the risk of a 50% tariff being imposed next month. Will the Minister take this opportunity to commit to updating the website, updating this House and updating steelworkers on the state of the negotiations?
Context
The MP questioned whether the Prime Minister had actually negotiated the 25% steel tariff down to zero.
The Minister for Trade Policy (Mr Alexander)
I am very happy to consider the issues that the hon. Lady raises in relation to the website, but I can assure her that, whether it is the Minister for Industry or the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, the Government are in constant dialogue with the British steel industry. We will introduce a steel strategy, unlike her predecessors, and we have put serious money behind it. Thanks to the economic prosperity deal with the United States, the UK was the only country to be made exempt from the 50% tariffs on steel and aluminium that other countries around the world now face.
Session: Trade Agreements Programme
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It is good to hear that the trade negotiations with India, which began when we were in government, are progressing well. There must surely now be an opportunity to reopen talks with Canada, so it can buy more wonderful cheese from the UK. With the tariff clock ticking, I am sure the Secretary of State recognises that the US deal is the most urgent; many UK jobs are at risk. However, we heard recently from the Chancellor, when she was in the States, that her bigger priority is discussions with the EU, where we already have zero tariffs and zero quotas. Does the Secretary of State share the Chancellor’s priorities, or does he think the US is more urgent?
Context
The context involves the priorities for trade negotiations with Canada, India, and the US. The MP references recent comments by the Chancellor about prioritizing EU discussions.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Jonathan Reynolds)
I thank the hon. Lady for her comments. Both India and Canada have challenging negotiations due to issues around agriculture similar to those with the US. The Chancellor’s comments specifically relate to the simple truth that there is a much greater quantum of UK-EU trade than UK-US trade, but in all negotiations, we must focus on doing what is right and in the national interest. We will welcome support from across the House for our work.
Session: Trade Agreements
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The Business Secretary met recently in Japan with Fujitsu, which developed the Horizon system and has offered to contribute to the compensation for victims. Can the Minister tell the House how much the Secretary of State has asked it to contribute, so that taxpayers are not on the hook for £1 billion?
Context
The Business Secretary met recently in Japan with Fujitsu, which developed the Horizon system and has offered to contribute to the compensation for victims. Taxpayers should not be on the hook for £1 billion.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
The hon. Lady is right to reference the discussions that my right hon. Friend had with the chief executive officer of Fujitsu. That company has agreed to begin talks about its contribution to the costs of compensation. She will understand that we also need to wait for Sir Wyn Williams’ inquiry to conclude, and for his recommendations regarding compensation from Fujitsu to be heard and understood. I am sure she will also understand that I am not going to give a running commentary on the discussions with Fujitsu, but I welcome the fact that it has agreed to begin talks.
Session: Post Office Horizon Compensation
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Dame Harriett Baldwin inquired about the Department for Business and Trade's stance regarding new nuclear projects given the current policy not issuing licences for domestic oil and gas extraction.
Context
Energy costs have risen due to lack of sunlight and wind, increasing reliance on imported oil and gas. Nuclear power is seen as a necessary complement to renewable sources for energy security.
The Minister for Industry (Sarah Jones)
The Minister acknowledged her joint role in both departments and confirmed that she is working closely with colleagues on a comprehensive energy strategy including renewables, hydrogen, carbon capture, and nuclear power. She noted that the government aims to treble solar capacity, double wind generation, support big nuclear projects and small modular reactors.
Session: Industrial Strategy
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Some of the most successful small and medium-sized businesses are owned by families. Why does the Secretary of State think it will help his long-term growth mission to tax these businesses when they get passed to the next generation?
Context
The question arises from the debate over inheritance taxes' impact on family-owned businesses, a critical issue for long-term growth.
Jonathan Reynolds
With respect, I hear calls from the Conservatives to cut taxes and increase spending but no account of how they would do that. The UK has a competitive tax system benchmarked in corporation tax, capital gains taxes, and inheritance taxes. Adjustments to specific reliefs for businesses and agricultural property are on top of existing thresholds.
Session: Small and Medium-sized Businesses
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One of the ingredients for a successful high street is having a post office in the mix. The Government have inherited a network of 11,500 post offices, and that number has been stable since 2010. Will the Minister commit to supporting high streets by maintaining the scale of the post office network in this Parliament?
Context
The question relates to maintaining the stability and scale of the post office network inherited from previous governments.
Gareth Thomas
Yes, we are determined to maintain and indeed strengthen the post office network. We are looking at what new commercial opportunities there may be for the Post Office, not least in developing a replacement for the Horizon scheme.
Session: High Streets Government Support
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Will you welcome news that Malvern theatres are expanding thanks to levelling-up funds? When completed, will you come to open it and meet young people there?
Context
Levelling-up funding will help expand Malvern theatres, providing opportunities for young people in the creative industries.
Lisa Nandy
I would be delighted to do so. We are determined that as many parts of the country as possible play their full part in the growth success story, and young people get access to opportunities and go on to have flourishing careers. I am keen to attend when completed.
Session: Creative Industries
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Will the Minister tell the House whether her bid to the spending review for flood defences will be higher or lower than current levels?
Context
Concerns about potential cuts to capital spending on flood defences as seen in the Budget Red Book.
Emma Hardy
£2.4 billion will be invested over the next two years to improve flood resilience by maintaining, repairing and building flood defences.
Session: Flood Resilience
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A 90-year-old pensioner in West Worcestershire with a £13,500 income is struggling this winter due to the loss of the winter fuel allowance. Will she increase the threshold?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the impact of cutting winter fuel allowances for pensioners on their living standards.
Rachel Reeves
We inherited a £22 billion black hole in public finances, necessitating difficult decisions; however, we protected the winter fuel payment for vulnerable pensioners on pension credit and boosted uptake of pension credit.
Session: Living Standards
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The Birmingham to Hereford railway line is not electrified but has seen poor performance recently. Will the Minister agree to meet West Midlands Railway management to improve service on this important line?
Context
The west midlands railway line from Birmingham to Hereford has seen a deterioration in performance since agreeing to an inflation-busting pay rise with the strikers.
Lilian Greenwood
There have been improvements in performance and a reduction in cancellations. My right hon. Friend is working hard to hold operators accountable and ensure constituents enjoy quality service.
Session: Midland Main Line Electrification
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Harriett Baldwin thanked Emma Hardy for her answer on supporting farmers. She asked for a one-word response to whether the Department's request to the Chancellor for funding was more or less than £2.4 billion, acknowledging that she understands the Minister cannot disclose details of the upcoming spending review.
Context
It is the time of year when farmers celebrate the harvest, but this year has been particularly challenging. Farmers are planning ahead for next year and require financial support.
Emma Hardy
Emma Hardy thanked Harriett Baldwin for her question and acknowledged it as a time to celebrate the harvest. She stated that she cannot comment on the Budget before its announcement, similar to previous statements by the Secretary of State, and wished not to be in trouble with the Chancellor.
Session: Support for Farmers
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Harriett Baldwin thanked Emma Hardy for her answer on supporting farmers. She asked for a one-word response to whether the Department's request to the Chancellor for funding was more or less than £2.4 billion, acknowledging that she understands the Minister cannot disclose details of the upcoming spending review.
Context
It is the time of year when farmers celebrate the harvest, but this year has been particularly challenging. Farmers are planning ahead for next year and require financial support.
Emma Hardy
Emma Hardy thanked Harriett Baldwin for her question and acknowledged it as a time to celebrate the harvest. She stated that she cannot comment on the Budget before its announcement, similar to previous statements by the Secretary of State, and wished not to be in trouble with the Chancellor.
Session: Support for Farmers
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Malvern college, Malvern St James girls' school, Bredon school and other schools in West Worcestershire that offer places to children with special educational needs not only play an important role in our education system, but support the local economy. Will the Minister state that he does not want to see the closure of any of those important independent schools in West Worcestershire?
Context
The MP inquires about the importance of private schools offering places to children with special educational needs and seeks a commitment from the Minister.
Stephen Morgan
This Government's ambition is that all children and young people with SEND receive the right support to succeed. We are committed to taking a community-wide approach, improving inclusivity in mainstream schools, and ensuring special schools cater to those with complex needs. Children whose places in private school have been deemed necessary by local authorities will not be affected.
Session: Private School Closures
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Is it not the case that this Chancellor has made the chilling political choice to balance the books of this country on the very frailest shoulders by setting up Great British Energy and a national wealth fund, and by giving in to pay demands?
Context
The MP questioned the Chancellor's spending priorities, noting that pensioners will face a significant increase in energy bills without winter fuel allowance.
James Murray
The Government are providing essential investments for our country's future. We also need to ensure that all eligible pensioners take up pension credit, which includes the winter fuel payment.
Session: Living Standards
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What steps do he and the Foreign Secretary plan to take to end the UK's indirect import of Russian crude oil via Indian refineries? Did the Foreign Secretary discuss that issue when travelling to see Commonwealth friends in India last week?
Context
The UK indirectly imports Russian crude oil through refineries in India. The questioner asks about steps to prevent this and discusses the Foreign Secretary's recent trip there.
Stephen Doughty
We will continue to explore further options to strengthen our sanctions, including in the energy sector. The Foreign Secretary did indeed raise the issue at his meetings in Mangalore during a visit focused on strengthening ties with Commonwealth friends.
Session: Russian Sanctions Regime
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How much has the NHS dental recovery plan increased appointments in the Worcestershire and Herefordshire integrated care board area? The Conservative party praised this plan during the general election.
Context
The MP asks about the NHS dental recovery plan's impact in Worcestershire and Herefordshire.
Wes Streeting
The Secretary stated that while some aspects of the previous Government's dental recovery plan will be continued, contract reform essential for changes. He dismissed gimmicks and praised 700,000 urgent appointments.
Session: NHS Dental Contracting Framework
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Will the Minister join me in welcoming the letter I received from Malvern College in Worcestershire this week? The school is one of the largest employers in Worcestershire and contributes £28 million to the local economy. If its 300-plus fee-paying pupils had to be educated in public schools, that would come at a huge cost.
Context
Malvern College in Worcestershire, an independent school and major local employer, contributes £28 million to the local economy. If its 300-plus fee-paying pupils had to be educated in public schools, it would impose a significant cost on the system.
Damian Hinds
My hon. Friend is exactly correct; if Labour got into government, there would be a hike in private school costs, pushing many families out of that provision and into the state-funded system, causing great strain and possibly cuts affecting other children.
Session: School Budgets since 2010
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I thank the team of Ministers for the £209 million that has been allocated to Worcestershire County Council from HS2 money, to help with local transport improvements. Will the Minister endorse a project in which we work with Oxfordshire County Council to find ways to redouble sections of the Oxford to Worcester line? That will result in faster, more frequent and more reliable services on the beautiful north Cotswold line.
Context
Worcestershire County Council has been allocated £209 million from HS2 money for local transport improvements. The North Cotswold Line Task Force is working with Network Rail on potential service enhancements.
Huw Merriman
As my right hon. Friend mentions, additional funding through Network North will help. Network Rail has been working with the taskforce and its consultants on timetable capacity and analysis, to see whether there is a smarter way to deliver additional services, with fewer infrastructure interventions. We expect that work to complete next month. I would be delighted if my right hon. Friend would join me and leaders of Worcestershire and Oxfordshire County Councils, and her neighbouring MP, to discuss this matter in the coming weeks.
Session: North Cotswold Line Dualling
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Whether he has made a recent assessment of the potential merits of dualling the North Cotswold Line between Oxford and Worcester. My right hon. Friend recognises my long-standing campaign on this scheme; I have worked alongside stakeholders including the North Cotswold Line Task Force to advocate for improvements.
Context
The North Cotswold Line Task Force and local stakeholders have been campaigning for enhancements to the line between Oxford and Worcester.
Huw Merriman
I recognise my right hon. Friend's long-standing campaign on this scheme; she has worked alongside stakeholders including the North Cotswold Line Task Force. We continue to work with local stakeholders on their aspirations for enhancements to the line.
Session: North Cotswold Line Dualling
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Did the Chancellor see an article yesterday in which the independent director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies confirmed that the average earner in the UK now has the lowest effective personal tax rate since 1975—lower than in America, France, Germany or any G7 country? Someone on £35,000—the average earnings for those working full time—faces an income tax and national insurance bill of nearly £2,000 less than they would have done on the same real earnings back in 2010. Does the Chancellor agree that now he has changed the rules on residence and domicile, the Opposition's unfunded spending plans could lead to higher taxes?
Context
An article discussed that the average earner in the UK now has the lowest effective personal tax rate since 1975.
Jeremy Hunt
I thank my hon. Friend for her excellent question. She is right that it is not just the lowest effective tax rate for someone on average earnings since 1975, but the lowest headline tax rate and the lowest tax rate in the G7.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
If the Chancellor aims to spend an additional £28 billion, what tax levels would that necessitate on ordinary households?
Context
The question arises from the premise of increasing public spending by £28 billion a year.
Jeremy Hunt
Increasing spending by £28 billion under fiscal rules would require a 4% income tax rise or an 8% corporation tax rise, as the Labour party claims.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is it the Secretary of State's understanding that such independent provision would be affected by taxation should the Opposition bring in a tax on independent schools across this country?
Context
Concern about the potential impact of a proposed tax on independent schools, particularly those providing specialist support for children with autism.
Gillian Keegan
There are 2,408 independent schools providing support for children with special educational needs. Increased taxation would make provision more difficult.
Session: Support for Children with SEND
View All Questions -->
On 23 February, this House has the opportunity to correct the constitutional sexism that means that one eighth of the seats in the other place are reserved for men only. Will the Government support and work with me on my Hereditary Titles (Female Succession) Bill?
Alex Burghart
I thank my hon. Friend for her question and the work she has done in this area; I know she has thought about it a great deal. I will be writing to her in due course. It is a complicated area of constitutional law, but we appreciate the position from which she is coming.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Merry Christmas. Millions of constituents will file a self-assessment tax return between now and the next Treasury questions, yet HMRC has shut down its hotline. How can my hon. Friend advise constituents on contacting HMRC?
Context
The HMRC has shut down its hotline for the majority of people and their advisors, leaving constituents unable to seek assistance.
Nigel Huddleston
We want to ensure people are served accurately and effectively through the most efficient channels. Two thirds of calls could be resolved online or via other channels like the app. People can still call in, but resources will be redeployed towards those most in need.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Malvern College employs hundreds of local people, supports the local economy, earns export earnings for our country, ensures that people around the world love the UK, and is a huge supporter of our local schools. What kind of destructive ideology would put all that at risk and make the UK the only country in the world to tax education?
Context
Malvern College in West Worcestershire is facing tax implications that could affect its operations, local economy, and educational support. The question addresses the impact of such a policy.
Gillian Keegan
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. It is a dreadful policy and it will have exactly the opposite impact. It will probably actually cost money and mean children moving schools, and all because the Labour party just plays the politics of envy.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I, too, convey to Mr Speaker a “Get well soon” message. In addition to the amenities in Yorkshire and elsewhere in the north, there is a wonderful real ale pub called The Bell Inn at Pensax, in the north of the Malvern Hills. May I put on the record my strong endorsement of its bid to the community ownership fund?
Context
The MP endorses the bid of The Bell Inn at Pensax to the community ownership fund, seeking recognition and support.
Michael Gove
It sounds as if that particular inn, in the heart of Elgar country, is something behind which all of us on the Front Bench can rally. It sounds like an excellent candidate for the community ownership fund, which has seen scores of buildings taken back into public ownership by their communities for the benefit of all.
Session: Economic Growth Yorkshire and the North
View All Questions -->
On the Conservative Benches we all agree that the way to sustainable economic growth without inflation is through business investment. It is early days, but I wonder whether we have indications of how well full expensing is working for encouraging business investment in this country. Is the Chancellor considering making that full expensing permanent next week at the autumn statement?
Jeremy Hunt
I welcome my hon. Friend's interest in the topic. One of the reasons why our productivity is 15% lower than Germany's, for example, is that it invests 2% more as a proportion of its GDP than we do in the UK. Improving the rate of business investment is one of the most effective ways to boost productivity and people's real disposable income. We are proud of what we introduced in the spring Budget, and we will continue to see whether it is possible to extend it further.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Financial Advice and Guidance: Consumer Market
09 January 2024
Responding: Bim Afolami
Main Concerns
['The speaker is concerned about the advice gap in financial services, where only a small percentage of constituents can afford professional financial advice. She uses an analogy of a supermarket to illustrate how this disparity affects consumer access and quality of financial guidance, noting that only the richest 8% benefit from expert help while the rest are left with generic or poor advice, potentially leading to long-term negative consequences for their savings health in retirement.']
Specific Asks
['The speaker urges the government to urgently address solutions for the unadvised through proposals like clarifying the boundary between guidance and advice, allowing firms greater certainty in supporting consumers without personal recommendations, enabling targeted support based on limited consumer information, and facilitating simplified advice at commercially viable prices. She also calls for increased awareness of services such as Pension Wise.']
Sudan
15 October 2020
Responding: James Duddridge
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the June massacres in Sudan and the progress of the inquiry into these events, which has been ongoing for over 15 months. Additionally, I worry about the economic challenges faced by poor people in Sudan due to the country's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism by the United States, despite steps taken by the transitional Government towards reparations."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister what more the UK Government can do to support the inquiry and search for justice regarding the June massacres. I also seek reassurance that work against female genital mutilation continues and request an update on how the UK is supporting democratic institution-building and peace deal implementation in Sudan.']
Local Government Reorganisation
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
13 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...
Opposition Day
23 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the motion expressing regret over the chaos in Government, particularly regarding the temporary Prime Minister's attendance at the NATO summit. Calls on the Government to spend 3% of GDP on defe...
Defence Investment Plan
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Transport (Scotland) Bill - Schedule 4 - Minor and Consequential amendments
10 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to make minor and consequential changes to the bill, ensuring consistency in the provisions. It includes technical adjustments to align with existing regulations and improve clarit...
Steel Industry Act - Clause or Amendment being debated: New clause 4, amendment 7, amendments 8 and 9, amendment 6, amendment 20, amendment 22, amendment 24, new clauses 6 to 13
09 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment moved by Sarah Olney aims to introduce provisions requiring the Secretary of State to publish a written estimate of environmental liabilities before compensation can be paid. This is int...
Steel Industry Nationalisation Bill - New Clause 8: Contingent liabilities
08 June 2026
Bill Debate
Led by this MP
The amendment aims to narrow the definition of a steel undertaking so that it must predominantly involve the manufacture or processing of steel. It seeks to prevent unnecessary nationalisation by ensu...
Attendance
81.7%
76 of 93 votes
Aye Votes
44
47.3% of votes
No Votes
32
34.4% of votes
Abstentions
17
18.3% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
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
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
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 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
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: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
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 NO
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
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
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
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
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
04 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
11
PMQs Asked
97
Ministerial Questions Asked
218
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
93
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
+200% above average
This MP:
11
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+624% above average
This MP:
97
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+4386% above average
This MP:
218
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+19% above average
This MP:
81.7
Average:
68.8
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 Harriett Baldwin's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.