Ian Lavery
MP for Blyth and Ashington
Lab
6 May 2010 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The hon. Member noted CISWO's accumulation of £30 million while miners' welfare, sports facilities, and community infrastructure have been neglected. He asked if the charity should face a Charity Commission inquiry and serious reform.
Context
The Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation has accumulated £30 million in the bank despite failing to support miners' welfare, sporting facilities, and community infrastructure.
Keir Starmer
The hon. Friend raised an important issue, noting Members' concerns about the organisation's practices. The Charity Commission has opened a compliance case.
Assessment
Did not address reform of policies or finances beyond mentioning the Charity Commission inquiry
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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Is it time to seek truth on policing during the miners' strike? Will PM commit to an early and full inquiry?
Context
The Labour Government delivered justice for mineworkers in weeks after general election. An inquiry into policing during the miners' strike is sought.
Keir Starmer
We are carefully considering next steps to deliver truth for Orgreave campaigners.
Assessment
No commitment to early and full inquiry was given
Session: PMQs
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It is almost a year to the day since the then Business Secretary, the right hon. Member for Spelthorne (Kwasi Kwarteng), in a visit to the Britishvolt site in my constituency, promised the company £100 million and proudly boasted to the national media that he could not think of a project that better demonstrated levelling up. Yesterday, the company entered administration having received not a penny in financial support from the Government. Does the Prime Minister agree with me that there is not a single project in the country that better demonstrates the Government's lack of industrial strategy, failure with levelling up and abandonment of the north-east?
Context
Britishvolt, a company in Blyth and Ashington, received no financial support from the government despite being promised £100 million by Kwasi Kwarteng. The company entered administration.
Rishi Sunak
First of all, let me say that my thoughts are with the company's employees and families at this time, and we stand ready to support those impacted. Let me just outline to the hon. Gentleman what exactly has happened. We did offer significant support to Britishvolt through the automotive transformation fund—a considerable amount of funding—but entirely reasonably, and this is not something I expect the Labour party to understand, that support was conditional on the company receiving private investment as well, which is a sensible protection for taxpayers. Unfortunately, that did not materialise. It is completely wrong to take from that what else is happening in the north-east. Across the north-east, there is new investment in the new N-Vision and Nissan plant in electric vehicle manufacturing. That is a £1 billion investment in the north-east. Look at what is happening in Teesside on clean energy. This Government are committed to the north-east, and we will deliver more jobs and opportunity under this Conservative Administration.
Assessment
Acknowledged Britishvolt's failure but focused on other successful projects instead of directly addressing the lack of industrial strategy or levelling-up failure
Redirecting To Positive Aspects
Denying Understanding
Session: PMQs
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During lockdowns we clapped healthcare heroes but now they are offered a 72p per week rise and described as militants. Nurses leave due to feeling abandoned by this Government. Uncapping bonuses for bankers while offering derisory pay rises to NHS staff is wrong, isn't it?
Context
The speaker criticises the Government's handling of nurse pay rises, suggesting it has shifted priorities from NHS to bankers.
Elizabeth Truss
Firstly, our nurses do a brilliant job. The figures are simply wrong; the independent body recommended £1,400 rise on average and we're committed to delivering it.
Session: PMQs
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Please instruct your new bestie to make sure a cheque is in the post this afternoon?
Context
The MP is concerned about the delay in receiving funds for a BritishVolt project which jeopardises up to 8,000 jobs.
Boris Johnson
The letter was sent last night with an in-principle offer of support for that project.
Assessment
Did not confirm cheque will be posted this afternoon but acknowledged recent actions
Session: PMQs
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What assessment has been made of extending schemes that support fuel-intensive businesses to those tasked with school transport?
Context
A small coach operator in the constituency faces significant increases in fuel prices without additional support from the local council.
Peter Kyle
We are paying tribute to the business in my hon. Friend's constituency and engaging regularly with refiners, importers and distributors to ensure that any emerging risks are identified and managed properly.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-02
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There are more teachers leaving the profession than coming into it. What is my right hon. Friend's Department doing to ensure that we retain as many of these fantastic, critical workers in the profession as possible?
Context
The Department for Education is struggling to retain teachers, with high workload and stress being cited as the most common reasons for leaving.
Bridget Phillipson
I know that my hon. Friend values the contribution of our teachers as much as I do. High-quality teaching is the single biggest factor in good educational outcomes for our children. We are improving pay and taking action on workload.
Session: Teacher Recruitment and Retention
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What steps her Department is taking to encourage teachers to remain in that profession. The working lives of teachers and leaders study last year showed that almost three in 10 teachers were expecting to leave the profession in the next 12 months, and 90% of the people who have left or are intending to leave cite high workload and stress as the most common reason.
Context
The Department for Education is facing criticism over its inability to retain teachers, with a significant number of teachers planning to leave the profession due to high workload and stress.
Bridget Phillipson
I know that my hon. Friend values the contribution of our teachers as much as I do. High-quality teaching is the single biggest factor in good educational outcomes for our children. We are improving pay and taking action on workload. I am also proud that we are doubling maternity pay—the first major change in maternity pay for teachers in more than 25 years.
Session: Teacher Recruitment and Retention
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While awaiting full details of the US-Iran agreement, does the Secretary agree that rushing into war as suggested by some Opposition Members would only prolong conflict and cause more financial misery? Is it not the case that such cheerleading for US aggression has stopped boats carrying oil bound for Britain?
Context
The supplementary question discusses the implications of the US-Iran agreement, suggesting that a rush into war would have prolonged conflict and caused financial hardship.
Yvette Cooper
We took a different view from the US and Israel at the start of this conflict and supported further negotiations. We are working internationally to bring the situation to an end, supporting mine clearance in the Strait of Hormuz and establishing defensive multilateral maritime missions.
Session: Strait of Hormuz
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What diplomatic steps are being taken by the Department to ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz?
Context
The question arises from the closure of the strait of Hormuz, which has impacted global economy and fuel prices. There is a memorandum of understanding between US and Iran to address this issue.
Yvette Cooper
The UK has been leading diplomatic work across the world to maintain the consensus behind the principle of freedom of navigation and international maritime law without tolls, restrictions or threat of attack. The closure of the Strait has hit the global economy and prices at home.
Session: Strait of Hormuz
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I thank my right hon. Friend for the sterling work he has done on this scandal. As mentioned by those on the Opposition Benches, there are still real issues that need to be worked on. The infected blood community have huge concerns about the stringent evidence required for severe psychological harm compensation. Will my right hon. Friend ensure that IBCA is permissive, flexible and compassionate when setting the special category mechanism criteria for psychological harm and, at the same time, when assessing the claims?
Context
The MP acknowledges the work done on this issue but highlights concerns about stringent evidence requirements for severe psychological harm compensation.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
I thank my hon. Friend and pay tribute to him for the work he has done campaigning for victims. On IBCA and the culture, and on how it treats evidence, as I said, there needs to be a sympathetic and compassionate approach to evidence. In that regard, when I have visited IBCA I have been very impressed with the general ethos that people have been trained in. Specifically on severe psychological harm, I have made very significant changes to the special category mechanism. On the precise issue of the evidence, I will write to my hon. Friend, as I promised to do to the right hon. Member for East Hampshire (Damian Hinds).
Session: Contaminated Blood Compensation
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The infected blood inquiry recommended action to protect the safety of haemophilia care, but there is mounting concern among clinicians and patients alike that recommendation 9 is not being implemented. Will the Minister meet me and members of the all-party parliamentary group on haemophilia and contaminated blood to discuss these real concerns?
Context
The infected blood inquiry recommended action to protect the safety of haemophilia care. There is concern that recommendation 9 is not being implemented.
Zubir Ahmed
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for making these points about haemophilia care. We are committed to implementing all recommendations of the review, and good progress has been made, including on non-plasma-derived treatments and the revision of the national service provision. NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care will continue to provide updates on the Government response. I am happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss this.
Session: Topical Questions
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Northumbria police have announced that they had to close the custody suite in Bedlington in my constituency. That means that anybody arrested in south-east Northumberland will have to travel to the city of Newcastle for a custody suite. That will ultimately reduce frontline policing in the already stretched community of Blyth and Ashington. Will the Minister meet me to discuss this unacceptable situation?
Context
Northumbria police closed the Bedlington custody suite, forcing arrests in southeast Northumberland to be moved to Newcastle. This impacts frontline policing in Blyth and Ashington.
Sarah Jones
Without wanting to step in on the operational independence of my hon. Friend's local police force, I am very happy to have a meeting with him to talk about this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers informed me of increased levels of violence, abuse, and intimidation towards retail workers including violent attacks and spitting. Will the hon. Friend say what measures the Government are taking to protect mainly lower-paid workers in the workplace?
Context
Violence, abuse, and intimidation against retail workers has increased. This includes incidents such as spitting in people's faces.
Sarah Jones
We are introducing a specific offence of assault on retail workers and working closely with retailers to target repeat offenders. Charges for shop thefts, often accompanied by assaults, rose by 21% last year.
Session: Shop Theft
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Prison officers face appalling levels of violence at work every day, but their hands are tied because of the Tory ban on any kind of industrial action—they cannot resist. Does the Minister agree that prison officers should have the legal right to withdraw their labour and to take industrial action to protect themselves and others while at work in what is an extremely dangerous workplace?
Context
Mr Lavery raises concerns about the ban on industrial action for prison officers, noting that this leaves them unable to protect themselves and others in dangerous workplaces.
Lammy
I recognise the seriousness of the issue my hon. Friend raises. I met prison officer unions just two weeks ago to discuss these very issues. My judgment is that, with the prison capacity crisis as it is and the pay increases we have been able to make to prison officers, this would not be the right time to explore changes in the practices he underlines.
Session: Topical Questions
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With public trust in politics at an all-time low, I am grateful that the Government are implementing the Hillsborough law. Clearly, the duty of candour should be extended to all public servants. Speaking truth to power is central to our democracy and to global democracy. Does the Minister agree that when the so-called leader of the free world stands up in public and lies with impunity about our great country and our allies at every opportunity he gets, there is no law or legislation that will ever restore public trust?
Context
Public trust in politics is at a low, with the Hillsborough law implementation seen as a step towards improving transparency.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
On the first point, I met the families of the victims of the Manchester Arena bombings and the Hillsborough families only last week. It is critical that we get the balance right between allowing our intelligence services the secrecy that is essential to their work and having proper oversight. That is exactly the work the Government will engage in. On the wider point, the Prime Minister made it absolutely clear yesterday that he would not yield on the question of Greenland’s sovereignty. While I was proud to see our Prime Minister take that position, what a shame it was that the Leader of the Opposition could not rise to the moment too.
Session: Government Decision Making Transparency
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In July 2024, the ICJ ruled that the Israeli occupation and settlements were illegal and must be ended and dismantled. Then, in September 2024, the UN General Assembly gave Israel a 12-month deadline to end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, which has now lapsed by more than four months. Why have the Government still not published their response to the ICJ advisory opinion? Is there something that we do not know, but perhaps should?
Context
Following the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion ruling that Israeli occupation and settlements are illegal, and the UN General Assembly giving Israel a 12-month deadline to end its unlawful presence which has since expired.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
In that period, the UK has made a range of significant determinations in relation to our policy in the middle east. Of course, we continue to consider the Court’s advisory opinion on Israel’s occupation carefully. There is lots in that advisory opinion with which we agree, and which is, indeed, already Government policy. We agree that settlements are illegal, and we have already taken strong action against them. Since this Government came into office, we have introduced three packages of sanctions related to violence against communities in the west bank, and we continue to keep these matters under review.
Session: Palestine International Humanitarian Law
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Will the Minister join me in thanking the fantastic employees of Northumbria NHS foundation trust for their continued dedication and commitment? We know that the NHS is held together by their efforts, but that comes at a severe personal cost to many individuals. A recent YouGov poll showed that 73% of our heroes—the heroes of the NHS—reported suffering from burnout: that is severe exhaustion. Will the Minister tell the House what measures he is taking to ensure that those who put their own wellbeing on the line to protect the health of the nation receive the support and care that they so richly deserve?
Context
The MP referenced a recent YouGov poll showing that 73% of NHS staff reported suffering from burnout due to severe exhaustion. He highlighted the dedication and commitment of Northumbria NHS foundation trust employees, noting the personal cost they bear for their efforts.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
I am hugely grateful to my hon. Friend for his question and he is rightly proud of his local trust. It is absolutely right that we cannot expect the NHS to rely simply on the goodwill of staff going above and beyond the call of duty to meet the needs of patients. That is why the Government are committed to publishing a new workforce plan, to create the workforce that is ready to deliver the transformed service set out in our 10-year health plan. We are already working with health unions, both on issues around pay, as people would expect, and the conditions that people are working in, recognising, as my hon. Friend rightly does, that this is not just about doctors, important though they are, but about the entire NHS workforce that is delivering the improvements with this Government that the country is crying out for so desperately.
Session: NHS Staff
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Labour Government’s investment in legal aid and legal services is hugely welcome. However, expert analysis has shown that young people from more deprived backgrounds find it difficult to access justice. People in constituencies like mine are unaware of what is available to them when they need it most. Can the Minister assure me that everything possible is being done to ensure our constituents are aware of how to access the justice they deserve and require urgently?
Context
The question addresses the issue of young people from deprived backgrounds struggling to access legal aid despite government investment in civil legal aid.
The Minister for Courts and Legal Services (Sarah Sackman)
My hon. Friend raises a very important issue. If people do not know their rights, they cannot enforce them; raising awareness is crucial. We are expanding access to legal support where people live their lives, including the online service that allows young people to access digital legal advice.
Session: Access to Justice
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May I congratulate the Secretary of State on his actions to repair the cherished NHS following 14 years of Tory destruction? We must learn from past mistakes. The PFI was a huge, expensive mistake—£80 billion repaid for £13 billion investment—an absolute disaster. Will the Minister reassure the House that the lessons of PFI have been well learned and they are truly in the past?
Context
After initial reassurance about NHS protection, concerns were raised specifically on the lessons from private finance initiative failures where £80 billion was repaid for an investment of £13 billion.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
Lessons have indeed been learned; we will ensure value for taxpayers’ money in all future proposals regarding health services.
Session: Public-private Partnerships
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What steps are being taken to ensure that frontline NHS services are supported following the potential introduction of new public-private partnership contracts? We must learn from past mistakes; PFI was a huge mistake at an expense of £80 billion for £13 billion investment. Will the Minister reassure us that lessons have been learned and such failures will not repeat?
Context
Following concerns about previous public-private partnership models like PFI, which were costly failures. The private finance initiative was criticised for costing £80 billion repaid over £13 billion invested, deemed a disaster by many.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
This Government are determined to protect the NHS and ensure it remains free at the point of use. We look at various options including public-private partnerships to deliver better care in communities as per the 10-year plan, ensuring all proposals undergo robust value-for-money assessments.
Session: Public-private Partnerships
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CISWO dates back to the 1920s and was originally meant to support mining communities. However, many MPs are witnessing the opposite, citing the chief executive officer’s rigid enforcement of old covenants and lack of engagement with coalfield communities as major issues. In Blyth and Ashington, for example, CISWO's actions have led to the eviction of the Bedlington Terriers from their home ground after over 50 years. Will the Minister agree to meet me and the chair of the coalfield group to discuss how we can reverse this negative mindset of CISWO trustees?
Context
The MP noted the long-standing history of CISWO, established to support coalmining communities. He highlighted dissatisfaction with CISWO's operations, particularly regarding the eviction of a local football team from their grounds.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
The Minister acknowledges the serious concerns raised by her hon. Friend regarding CISWO's role in coalfield communities. She is troubled by the example provided and emphasises that charities must adhere to their charitable purposes within legal frameworks. The Charity Commission acts as an independent regulator for such matters. The Minister expresses willingness to meet with the MP to discuss these issues further, inviting any Member of Parliament to join.
Session: Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation
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I welcome that reply, and it is really progressive that the Government are now relocating jobs away from London, but can I urge the Minister to look closely at how people in places like my constituency of Blyth and Ashington—people everywhere, in rural and semi-rural constituencies as well as in more urban ones—can benefit from this fantastic policy? We all need to be able to benefit from this policy, not just certain peoples in city constituencies.
Context
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster had announced plans to relocate thousands of civil service roles across different cities in the UK, aiming to bring the civil service closer to local communities.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Pat McFadden)
I very much hear what my hon. Friend says. I cannot stand here and say that there will be a civil service location in every single constituency in the country, but we are happy to have dialogue with MPs and local authorities from all parts of the country to get the biggest benefits possible from these decisions to locate civil service jobs around the country. The truth is, in this day and age, not everyone has to work in central London. We can get better value for money and, as I said, a public service that is closer to the public it serves.
Session: Relocating Civil Service Roles
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Last year, assaults on prison staff were up by 19% and serious assaults were up by 22%, yet the pensionable age of prison officers is still 68—it is simply too late. Can the Minister update the House on any discussions he may have had with officials regarding that industrial injustice and say when these loyal public servants might expect to see this long-standing issue corrected?
Context
The MP highlighted an increase in assaults on prison staff, noting that the pensionable age of prison officers is still set at 68 years. He referred to this as an industrial injustice.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Sir Nicholas Dakin)
We recognise the unique and challenging role that prison officers play in protecting the public and reducing reoffending. The Lord Chancellor has requested advice from officials on the pension age of prison officers, and we will continue to engage with trade unions as we work through this complex issue while considering the wider fiscal context. I am meeting the hon. Member for Aberdeenshire North and Moray East (Seamus Logan) to discuss this important issue next week, and I am very happy for my hon. Friend to join that meeting if he wishes.
Session: Topical Questions
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In each of the past two years, 40,000 teachers have left the profession owing to burnout and excessive workloads. What concrete steps will the Government take to address that, and how can we reverse the exodus from this fantastic profession?
Context
High teacher turnover due to burnout and excessive workloads.
Catherine McKinnell
Under the Tories teachers were overstretched and undervalued, so Labour is resetting the relationship with the profession. We are properly remunerating teachers by accepting the 5.5% pay rise that the last Government sat on. We are also keen to cut unnecessary burdens on teachers, harnessing artificial intelligence and supporting children with their mental health. The child poverty taskforce is determined to alleviate the burdens that originate outside the school gates.
Session: Topical Questions
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Local councils manage mountains of sensitive data, deliver essential services and lead on emergency responses to critical incidents, among much more, yet 15 years of Tory underfunding has left outdated digital infrastructure, leaving them particularly vulnerable to cyber-attack. Does the Minister agree that improving cyber resilience in local authorities is of paramount importance if we are to protect our citizens’ data and continue to deliver essential services without interruption from hostile actors?
Context
Local councils are responsible for managing sensitive data, delivering essential services, and responding to emergencies. However, years of underfunding have left their digital infrastructure outdated and vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Pat McFadden)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right: not all the systems used across central or local government are as up to date as they should be. This is a constant battle and a constant challenge. It is really important that we put every effort into ensuring that we are as well protected as possible against hostile acts from both state and non-state actors.
Session: Cyber-security Local Government Resilience
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Many families in my constituency live in new housing estates where the developers have made their profits, sailed off into the sunset, and left the roads and services in an unacceptable state and unadopted. What steps might the Government be able to take to push local authorities like Northumberland county council into action to accept their responsibilities and adopt those estates?
Context
Families in new housing estates are living in poor conditions due to substandard construction by developers who have left the area. Local authorities such as Northumberland County Council are reluctant to adopt these estates, leading to unadopted roads and services.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
I well recognise the situation that my hon. Friend describes, but I also recognise the reluctance of local authorities to take on substandard housing estates that have been built. We have decided to consult this year on options to reduce the prevalence of private management of estates of the kind he describes. We will also, importantly, implement new consumer protections for homeowners on private estates in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024.
Session: Topical Questions
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Many people with mental health conditions rely heavily on personal independence payments so that they can continue in work and remain active in their communities. Can the Minister provide advice to the many constituents of mine who have contacted me terrified by the rumours that the Government are about to scrap this vital support for those who already have mental health issues?
Context
There have been rumours about the Government potentially scrapping Personal Independence Payments, which many individuals with mental health issues rely on to continue working and stay active in their communities.
Stephen Timms
My hon. Friend is right that there has been a particularly big increase in mental health problems among young people. Given what the last Government did, I can well understand people being worried. We will continue to support people with mental health problems in the health and disability benefits system. The proposals for reform we will bring forward in the spring will make sure the system is fit for purpose and fair to the taxpayer, and they will deliver the support in work that people such as my hon. Friend’s constituents need.
Session: Topical Questions
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This week saw DeepSeek throw the global tech market into utter meltdown, with the Chinese AI app spooking investors. With huge national infrastructure projects required to underpin the UK’s place in the AI revolution, what does this turmoil mean for projects such as the Blackstone AI data centre in Cambois in Bedlingtonshire, in my constituency?
Context
DeepSeek app caused turmoil in the global tech market.
The Minister for Industry and Regional Growth (Sarah Jones)
My hon. Friend and I have previously talked about this great opportunity. The rapid development and breakthrough of new AI models such as DeepSeek tell us that we need to go further and faster to remove barriers to innovation and make Britain the most competitive market. We need to be developing the technology ourselves. That is why we have set out our new AI strategy and why we are scaling up our capacity, creating AI growth zones and putting in place every vehicle we can to support the growth of technology innovation in our country, because we will need it in future.
Session: Topical Questions
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Yesterday saw full-throated Government support for projects across the UK, but not so much for the north-east. The region was decimated by 14 years of Tory Government, and that cannot be repeated. What will the Government do to ensure that businesses in my Blyth and Ashington constituency can play their part in the cutting-edge technologies of the future and see improved investment, which will create much-needed jobs with good wages and terms and conditions?
Context
The region has faced economic challenges due to previous government policies. The north-east was particularly affected by past administrations, with a need for substantial support for local businesses.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Justin Madders)
I am at one with my hon. Friend in wanting all parts of the country, especially the north-west and the north-east, to have high-paid, well-skilled, good jobs, in tech sectors in particular, but also in other areas where we can see great advantage for the economy. The local skills improvement plan for the north-east will help, and the excellent facilities at Blyth’s Energy Central Learning Hub are supported by over £6 million of Government funding. That is already developing sector skills in a real-world port setting.
Session: North-east Support for Businesses
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My constituency's Lynemouth biomass power station is pursuing significant carbon capture initiatives but awaits major departmental decisions. The hon. Friend asks for a meeting to address these urgent issues.
Context
The Lynemouth biomass power station has ambitious carbon capture projects awaiting crucial decisions from the Department. The station aims to decarbonise hard-to-decarbonise industries.
Sarah Jones
My hon. Friend is absolutely right, and I would be delighted to meet him; we can also talk about data centres at the same time. Carbon capture is crucial for decarbonising hard-to-decarbonise industries, bringing potential jobs as well.
Session: Topical Questions
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St Mary's Church in Woodhorn in my constituency has not been in operation for worship since 1973. It is one of the oldest, most historic churches in Northumberland, if not the country. It is under the care of Northumberland county council now, but it is in a dilapidated state. Can my hon. Friend give me some advice on who I can contact within the Church to see whether it can support the church to ensure that it is part not just of the history of our wonderful county, but of its future?
Context
St Mary's Church in Woodhorn has not been used for worship since 1973. It is under the care of Northumberland county council but its state is dilapidated.
Marsha de Cordova
My hon. Friend rightly highlights that St Mary's church in his constituency is one of the oldest, and it is a charming example of wonderful architecture. I understand some of the challenges that he mentions, as the church has been closed for a long period of time. It would be wonderful to see churches such as that reopen—we would all like to see churches open as opposed to closed, as many of them are. As a grade I listed building on the National Heritage List for England, it is eligible for grants for repairs and renovations. I am happy to write to my hon. Friend with a list of grant-making bodies. I will ask Church House for further advice on who he can speak to, as well as working together to see whether we can get his church reopened.
Session: Historic Church Preservation Northumberland
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What steps the Church is taking to ensure the preservation of historic churches in Northumberland.
Context
Northumberland has many architecturally significant historic churches. The Buildings for Mission fund supports church preservation.
Marsha de Cordova
The historic churches of Northumberland are among the oldest and most architecturally significant in our country. Any church can apply for support from the £11 million Buildings for Mission fund. The diocese of Newcastle is very grateful for the support of the Northumbria Historic Churches Trust and other local grant-making bodies. My hon. Friend may also want to encourage his parishes to approach some of these excellent charities.
Session: Historic Church Preservation Northumberland
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Can the Minister update the House on that plan's progress?
Context
Northumberland's biggest town, Blyth, is in desperate need of a relief road.
Lilian Greenwood
Like my hon. Friend, we are all thinking of Lord Prescott and his family today. My officials have had meetings with Northumberland county council, which is working to strengthen the case and provide further analytical work before the scheme can be fully appraised. I would be happy to update my hon. Friend on those discussions when I can do so.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last year, nearly 50 British universities had research ties with very high-risk Chinese institutions. The intelligence services have warned of joint UK-China projects potentially used for military purposes. What is the Department doing to protect our research and security?
Context
Nearly 50 British universities were identified as having ties with high-risk Chinese institutions, raising concerns about infiltration by foreign agencies.
Peter Kyle
The Government are working closely with universities, the sector, and intelligence community to ensure that our research is world class, safe, and secure.
Session: Topical Questions
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How will the Secretary of State ensure that all school support staff receive relevant training in speech and language development to better assist children requiring extra help?
Context
Teaching assistants need training to help children with special educational needs, particularly those struggling with speech and language skills.
Bridget Phillipson
Additional funding has been committed this year to roll out the Nuffield early language intervention program, which provides extra early speech and language support for children struggling with these skills.
Session: Teaching Assistants and Support Staff
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Low pay and limited career progression drive many teaching support staff out of classrooms. With three-quarters of the profession considering leaving or actively seeking new roles, what steps will Labour take to address this recruitment and retention crisis by ensuring valued employees receive fair wages and conditions?
Context
School support staff face poor pay and limited career progression leading to high turnover rates. Three quarters of the profession are considering leaving or actively looking for other jobs with one in five teaching assistant posts vacant.
Bridget Phillipson
The school support staff negotiating body will establish a national terms and conditions handbook, training programs, career progression routes, and fair pay rates for support staff to ensure we can recruit and retain essential personnel including teaching assistants and catering staff.
Session: Teaching Assistants and Support Staff
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Does my hon. Friend agree that when we have huge infrastructure programmes in certain constituencies, residents should benefit from local jobs and community facilities?
Context
The £10 billion investment in a data centre in Cambois will provide local jobs and community facilities.
Sarah Jones
I agree with my hon. Friend. It is essential that local communities see the benefits of landmark investments such as £110 million investment in a fund to support local skills training and transport infrastructure by Blackstone.
Session: Topical Questions
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This week's events have shown how Government legislation can empower unions to disrupt business operations. For example, a rail union insists on using outdated methods like fax machines instead of email. How does this support collective bargaining?
Context
Government legislation empowering unions is leading to practical challenges, such as picket lines preventing the Secretary of State from meeting with CBI Scotland. Additionally, ASLEF's reluctance to modernize communication practices has been highlighted.
Justin Madders
The hon. Member needs education on what trade unions do. ASLEF, not involved in adult social care, faces different challenges than those addressed by our tripartite efforts focusing on business and workers with the Government's support to improve terms and conditions.
Session: Sectoral Collective Bargaining
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I thank the Minister for his answer on strengthening collective voices of workers through the Employment Rights Bill. Experts say that sectoral bargaining can be a powerful tool in various sectors. What plans does the government have to extend such practices beyond adult social care?
Context
Experts argue that sectoral bargaining is beneficial for both employees and employers. The Labour Government introduced the Employment Rights Bill, which includes measures to empower workers in adult social care.
Justin Madders
My hon. Friend is correct that there is evidence worldwide supporting the benefits of collective bargaining for terms and conditions, but we must start somewhere. With 5% of the working population in adult social care facing high turnover rates and misuse of contracts, this sector needed immediate attention first. We aim to improve working conditions in adult social care before expanding efforts elsewhere.
Session: Sectoral Collective Bargaining
View All Questions -->
The Minister will be well aware that thousands of low-paid workers are being exploited on outsourced contracts in Government buildings, including cleaners, security guards and people in catering. Will he update the House on what progress is being made to in-source these jobs? After all, they are critical to the efficient operation of Parliament.
Pat McFadden
Whether workers are working in-sourced or outsourced, we always want them to have a good deal and a fair deal at work. That is why the Government brought forward this week a powerful Bill to improve employment rights for people right across the board. We believe that when people go to work they deserve fair pay and decent conditions.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Cheltenham Town Women have a thriving team, with junior and adult sections. Sadly, one place above them in the table this season are Lewes FC running the 'Equal FA Cup' campaign. Does the Minister agree that it is time for equality of prize money across the men's and women's FA cups?
Context
The question is raised in light of the growing number of women's teams and a campaign by Lewes FC for equal prize money across men's and women's FA cups.
Stephanie Peacock
I am incredibly grateful to the hon. Gentleman for asking such an important question. The Government are fully committed to supporting women's sport, ensuring it is on an equal footing with men's sport. We will pay close attention to steps taken by the Football Association last season to double the prize fund for the women's FA cup.
Session: Grassroots and Non-league Football
View All Questions -->
The Government's better buses Bill is a fantastic example of what a Labour Government can achieve and do. For the Bill to be successful, if funding is made available, we must ensure bus drivers are paid adequately and local residents have an input into the design, regularity and quality of routes. Will the Minister confirm that that will form part of the Bill and that this Labour Government will end the Tories' 14-year ideological war on municipal transport?
Context
The question follows up on the Better Buses Bill, focusing on ensuring adequate driver compensation and community involvement in route planning.
Simon Lightwood
I agree with my hon. Friend. I reassure him that we are committed to delivering better bus services and that we will always put passengers first. Our forthcoming bus Bill is a crucial part of our reforms. When it is introduced later in this Session, it will increase powers available to local leaders, because those local leaders are best placed to make decisions on their bus networks, and remove the Conservatives' ideological ban on municipal bus companies.
Session: Publicly-controlled Bus Services Ringfenced Funding
View All Questions -->
If she will take steps with Cabinet colleagues to ensure the provision of ringfenced funding for local authorities to deliver publicly-controlled bus services.
Context
The question arises from the need for better public transport in constituencies like Blyth and Ashington, where funding and control over bus services are critical.
Simon Lightwood
As part of our plan to deliver better bus services, the Government have committed to reforming bus funding by giving local authorities the tools they need to ensure services reflect the needs of the communities they serve. We want to give local leaders more control and flexibility over bus funding, and allow them to plan ahead to deliver their local transport priorities. We are considering how best to support buses in the longer term as part of the spending review.
Session: Publicly-controlled Bus Services Ringfenced Funding
View All Questions -->
As the new school year begins, far too many students in my constituency have not yet been able to secure a school place of their choice. Does my hon. Friend agree that the schools allocation policy needs a desperate overhaul? Many people believe that it is not fit for purpose. Could she tell the House what steps the Government are taking to address this extremely important issue?
Context
Many students in the constituency have not yet secured a school place of their choice.
Catherine McKinnell
We recognise the challenges that my hon. Friend raises, which is why the Government will introduce changes, so that state-funded schools can be asked to co-operate with local authorities on admissions and place planning. Local authorities have a responsibility to allocate all applicants a school place on national offer day.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
High Street Bank Closures
26 February 2025
Responding: James Murray
Main Concerns
['The number of high street bank branches has declined from over 21,000 in 1986 to fewer than 5,000 at the beginning of 2025. This decline poses a serious risk of financial exclusion for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and disabled individuals who struggle with online access. In Blyth and Ashington constituency alone, there are 3,420 people living with sight loss.']
Specific Asks
['There is an urgent need to address the inflexibility in regulations that prevent banking hubs from being established where needed. The criteria for establishing these hubs must be changed to ensure every community has access to banking facilities.']
Access to Education: South-East Northumberland
21 February 2024
Responding: Damian Hinds
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the negative impact of changes in school admissions policies on parental choice in south-east Northumberland. He notes that over-subscription criteria have shifted from feeder schools to distance-based allocation, making it difficult for children to attend their traditional local schools. This has resulted in longer commutes and disrupted social networks. The MP highlights specific cases where children from rural areas are unable to access their preferred secondary schools due to new policies, leading to educational disruption and disconnection from community support systems. The hon. Member for Wansbeck is concerned about the impact of changes in school admissions criteria on local children's access to education, particularly noting a decrease from first preference offers to top three preferences in South-East Northumberland. He highlighted that since 2010, some schools have altered their admissions policies to prioritize distance over attendance at specific feeder schools."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the Minister to address issues regarding parental choice in education by providing additional funding for Bedlington Academy to increase its capacity. He also requests more rigorous checks on development impacts year-on-year to prioritize student needs. The hon. Member asks the Government to ensure fair access to school places for all children and to work closely with local authorities and academy trusts to address issues of place sufficiency and improve education standards in underperforming schools.']
P&O Ferries Redundancies
28 March 2023
Responding: Kevin Hollinrake
Main Concerns
["Concerned about the redundancies at P&O Ferries where staff were dismissed without prior warning or consultation. The CEO admitted to breaking the law but remains in position, and no action has been taken against P&O for their actions on 17 March 2022. Worried about the Government's failure to penalize P&O Ferries and DP World, and the lack of protection for seafarers from nationality-based pay discrimination. The Seafarers' Wages Act is seen as insufficient and not effective until next year."]
Specific Asks
["Asks the Minister why no action has been taken against P&O for their actions on 17 March 2022, to make the seafarers' charter a mandatory requirement, give trade unions a formal role in assessing compliance with standards in the charter, and reform the Insolvency Service to include public interest tests. Also asks about DP World's liabilities to the Merchant Navy Ratings Pension Fund."]
British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme
22 June 2026
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP for Ashfield, Lee Anderson, discussed the plight of former miners and their families who are members of the British Coal staff superannuation scheme. He emphasised that there were over 700,000 ...
Backbench Business
18 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That this House has considered the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme. The debate highlights the need for just compensation and recognition of those affected by contaminated blood produ...
Social Media Ban for Under-16s
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
General Strike Centenary Commemorations
03 June 2026
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
Laurence Turner brought forward an Adjournment debate to commemorate the centenary of the general strike of 1926, highlighting its profound impact on labour history. He emphasised the solidarity shown...
Royal Mail: Universal Service Obligation
11 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Digital ID: Public Consultation
10 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Schools White Paper: Every Child Achieving and Thriving
23 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Business of the House 2026-01-22
22 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Norman discussed various topics including the launch of a new autonomous robotics degree at his constituency's university, criticised the hon. Member for Clacton for attending Davos, raised concer...
Mobile Phones and Social Media Use by Children 2026-01-20
20 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Venezuela 2026-01-05
05 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry
16 April 2024
The petition addresses the long-standing issue faced by individuals infected with contaminated blood products, highlighting the injustice suffered by those impacted and their families who have waited ...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
86.7%
72 of 83 votes
Aye Votes
26
31.3% of votes
No Votes
46
55.4% of votes
Abstentions
11
13.3% of votes
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
5
PMQs Asked
89
Ministerial Questions Asked
99
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
1
Petitions Presented
83
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
+36% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+551% above average
This MP:
89
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1945% above average
This MP:
99
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-59% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+25% above average
This MP:
86.7
Average:
69.5
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 Ian Lavery's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.