Jason McCartney
MP for Colne Valley
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking the team at HRI for opening a new A&E unit and welcome the recruited doctors and nurses? Also, does he agree that this shows delivery for constituents in the Holme and Colne valleys and Lindley?
Context
The new £15 million accident and emergency unit at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary recently opened, alongside other local investment initiatives.
Rishi Sunak
I congratulate my hon. Friend on the new A&E unit at HRI, a real game-changer for residents. There are also levelling-up projects such as the open market in Huddersfield and the new teaching block at Greenhead College.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about nearly 5,000 people living with dementia in my constituency, including those without a formal diagnosis. With my dad recently diagnosed and being my constituent, will you pledge to make dementia a priority? I seek timely diagnosis rates improvement, bolstering research funding, social care investment, and access to innovative diagnostic methods.
Context
5,000 people are currently living with dementia in Colne Valley, of whom 3,153 have had a formal diagnosis. The number increased by one due to the questioner's father receiving a diagnosis.
Rishi Sunak (Prime Minister)
I send my warmest wishes to my hon. Friend and his father. I recognise the importance of timely dementia diagnosis for care support. NHS England is conducting a pilot project to improve dementia diagnosis in care homes, and our major conditions strategy includes a focus on dementia. We are doubling funding for dementia research.
Assessment
Specific asks about bolstering research and social care investment not directly addressed
Sentiments Of Support Without Specific Commitments
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister continue to invest in West Yorkshire given recent announcements like the Penistone rail line upgrade?
Context
The constituency has received significant investment, including £64 million for Huddersfield market and rail line upgrades.
Rishi Sunak
We are delighted with the third investment zone announced in West Yorkshire, and about the regeneration money for the Penistone rail line upgrade and Huddersfield open market.
Session: PMQs
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Labour-run Kirklees Council's local plan is seeing hundreds of homes being built on greenfield sites, but the agreed developer levies, the section 106 agreements, which are supposedly for local infrastructure spending, seem to be disappearing into a black hole. Does the Prime Minister agree that agreed infrastructure levies from developers should not be going into a general slush fund? They should be spent on local roads, local schools and local health services for the communities impacted by those developments.
Context
The MP raises concerns about section 106 agreements in Kirklees Council's local plan, where developers' funds for local infrastructure seem to be mismanaged.
Rishi Sunak
The Government are reforming the section 106 payment system to ensure that new development is matched by new infrastructure. The current system sees far too little of developers' profits going to build new schools, hospitals or transport infrastructure. It will be replaced by a new, non-negotiable, locally determined infrastructure levy.
Session: PMQs
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Labour-run Kirklees Council has reneged on deals, declared a climate emergency but has the worst recycling rate in the country. It is blighted by litter, fly-tipping, and now proposes to chop down mature trees in urban areas—
Context
Labour-run Kirklees Council reneged on a deal for the national rugby league museum, declared a climate emergency but has poor recycling rates. There are issues with green belt building, demolition of marketplaces, littering, fly-tipping, and tree cutting.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. It is typical Labour: saying one thing and doing the other. That is why, in Kirklees and elsewhere, people should vote Conservative tomorrow.
Assessment
Addressing issues with Kirklees Council's actions
Changed Subject To Voting
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that enough is enough, and that if TransPennine Express does not get to grips with this we need to strip it of the franchise?
Context
There are dozens of daily rail service cancellations by TransPennine Express causing misery for constituents.
Rishi Sunak
We have been clear that the current service is simply not acceptable. Rail North Partnership is working on a service improvement plan and my hon. Friend has weekly meetings with them.
Assessment
The answer did not commit to stripping TransPennine Express of its franchise if issues persist, instead noted ongoing discussions.
Session: PMQs
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Nicola's dad Bryn continues his campaign for police officers who die on duty to be awarded the Elizabeth medal posthumously. Does my right hon. Friend agree it's time to commemorate these brave individuals by awarding them this medal?
Context
Police Constable Nicola Hughes and PC Fiona Bone were murdered in Manchester a decade ago, and their father Bryn is campaigning for emergency service workers to receive the Elizabeth medal posthumously.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend for his question and his constituent Bryn for his campaigning. Every life lost in the line of duty is a tragedy, and we remember the lives and service of PCs Nicola Hughes and Fiona Bone. We are determined to ensure that the sacrifice that police officers and other public service officers make is recognised, and we are carefully considering the best and most appropriate ways to do that.
Assessment
Did not agree or disagree with posthumously awarding the Elizabeth medal specifically
Session: PMQs
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This weekend tens of thousands of Huddersfield sports fans are coming down to London. On Saturday, Huddersfield Giants are in their first rugby league challenge cup final for over a decade, and, on Sunday, it is Huddersfield Town in the championship play-off final for a place in the premier league. As well as wishing the best of luck to both Huddersfield teams, will the Prime Minister, agree with me that the best way that Labour-run Kirklees Council can honour the sporting tradition of Huddersfield is by following through with its pledge to house the new national rugby league museum in its birthplace, the George Hotel in Huddersfield, and not pull out of that deal, as it has indicated it wants to do?
Context
Tens of thousands of Huddersfield fans are coming to London for rugby league and football finals.
Boris Johnson
Is that the Labour council pulling out of its deal? I am not surprised. All I can say is that I congratulate my hon. Friend on his campaign for a national rugby league museum and I urge him to take it up with the Arts Council or other relevant bodies.
Assessment
supporting Labour council's pledge
Redirects To Arts Council
Session: PMQs
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I am so proud to represent a vibrant Ukrainian community in Huddersfield and Colne Valley. This Friday, at the Ukrainian club in Huddersfield, they will be collecting medical supply donations to send to Ukraine and the surrounding nations. Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking all our community in West Yorkshire, who have rallied round their Ukrainian neighbours and friends, and will he continue to put the UK at the forefront of donations of not only humanitarian and medical supplies, but the military aid that is allowing the Ukrainian people to fight so bravely against Putin and his cronies?
Context
There is a vibrant Ukrainian community in Huddersfield who are collecting medical supply donations to send to Ukraine and surrounding nations.
Boris Johnson
I thank the Ukrainian community in Yorkshire for everything they are doing and, of course, Ukrainian communities up and down the country and the people of this country as a whole. I am proud that we are the biggest bilateral donor, I think, other than the United States, of aid to Ukraine.
Session: PMQs
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I associate myself with the comments of the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition about our friend Jo Cox. Will the Prime Minister join me in congratulating rugby league legend Kevin Sinfield on his OBE in the Queen's birthday honours? Kevin has done so much to raise awareness of motor neurone disease and support his good friend Rob Burrow. MND is a devastating disease. There is no cure, but scientists believe they are on the cusp of developing effective treatments. Will the Government please commit to investing £50 million over five years to establish a virtual MND research institute and to accelerate research?
Context
Kevin Sinfield has been awarded an OBE for his work raising awareness of motor neurone disease.
Boris Johnson
Thank you, Mr Speaker. It is an OBE, and I thank Kevin Sinfield very much for his outstanding work. We are following it up by spending £55 million on research into MND, but there will be more to come as part of our general massive investment in life sciences.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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With Yorkshire leading the way in the vaccine roll-out, does the Prime Minister agree that once we have vaccinated the most vulnerable, the elderly and our wonderful health and social care workers, we should then look at prioritising the vaccination of police officers, emergency service workers, carers, teachers, nursery staff and all those whose essential daily work brings them into contact with other people?
Context
Yorkshire leads in vaccine roll-out and essential workers are concerned about their vaccination priority.
Boris Johnson (Prime Minister)
My hon. Friend is a great advocate for his constituents in Colne Valley, and I much enjoy my exchanges with him. I thank him for what he says about those groups. We must rely on what the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has to say and the priorities that the experts have decided, but of course we want to see those groups that he mentions vaccinated as soon as possible. I am very pleased that in spite of all the difficulties in supply, last week we gave 1.5 million people their first dose, up half a million on the week before.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not directly agree to prioritize vaccine distribution for essential workers but noted their importance.
Under Review
Working On It
Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about the devastation of the events sector due to the revenue loss from the pandemic. Will the Prime Minister look at financial support, focusing on grants for freelancers including musicians and performers? Will the Government support proactive testing for events?
Context
The events sector has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with revenues down by 90% since last year. The sector supports nearly one million jobs and is worth over £30 billion to the UK economy.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to champion the sector in the way that he does. The £1.57 billion culture recovery fund is clearly intended to support organisations and freelancers he mentions. We hope people will visit theatres as they reopen when tested before events.
Assessment
The specific ask for grants was not addressed directly, only the broader culture recovery fund mentioned without specifics on types of support or proactive testing plans.
We Hope People Will Visit Theatres As They Reopen
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister look at replenishing Arts Council funds redirected during the emergency covid response so that we can have vibrant creative industries coming out of this crisis?
Context
The Prime Minister is urged to support the creative industries struggling due to venues not being open for activities like the Marsden jazz festival or concerts.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
We will open theatres carefully to avoid a second spike. We are balancing opening up the economy while ensuring it is covid-compliant and secure.
Assessment
Restoring Arts Council funds
Striking A Balance
Covid Compliance
Session: PMQs
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that leadership needs to be locally driven and should vote for more Conservative councillors on 2 May?
Context
Labour councillors are resigning from their party, describing leadership as a 'toxic swamp'. There is a campaign to split Kirklees for better local accountability.
Michael Gove
My hon. Friend is absolutely right: we need change in Kirklees. The best way in which people can demonstrate their desire for change and the reconfiguration of Kirklees is by voting Conservative on 2 May.
Session: Topical Questions
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Considering the substantial contributions by the UK since February 2022, what specific steps are being taken to encourage NATO allies to enhance their civil and military support for Ukraine?
Context
UK has provided significant military, humanitarian and economic support to Ukraine.
Andrew Mitchell
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to put it in those terms. The Foreign Secretary met the Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba at the NATO-Ukraine Council. My hon. Friend will know that nearly £10 billion in military, humanitarian and economic support has been provided by Britain since February 2022, and we were the first country to provide lethal aid.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given that the Foreign Secretary is unavailable, I ask what specific steps you are taking in his absence to manage your department's key priorities and how frequently will you provide updates to Parliament?
Context
The Foreign Secretary has been on international duties.
Andrew Mitchell
The Government are focused on our vital priorities, notably: supporting Ukraine, standing with Israel, and providing aid to Palestinian civilians. The Foreign Secretary and I met global leaders at COP28, who welcomed the UK's leadership at this critical time.
Session: Topical Questions
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Labour-run Kirklees Council has been sitting on millions of pounds of unspent section 106 infrastructure payments, much of which has been allocated for local schools. In the meantime, I have a local school that has a leaky roof. It is impairing the teachers' ability to teach the children. May I please ask the Minister what is happening with the latest round of condition improvement funding to help with school repairs?
Context
Section 106 infrastructure payments have not been spent, and a local school has a leaky roof.
Nick Gibb
I welcome my hon. Friend's question. We have spent £15 billion since 2015 on repairs and maintenance of our school estate. We intend to announce any successful appeals from the latest condition improvement fund round this month, as CIF typically opens for applications each autumn. Eligible schools with an urgent condition need that cannot wait until the next round may of course apply for the urgent capital support.
Session: Topical Questions
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What specific actions are being taken now—this week, this month—to increase the availability of NHS dental appointments?
Context
Many constituents struggle to get NHS dental appointments.
Neil O'Brien
NHS dentistry has gone up by a fifth over the last year. We will increase training places for dentists by 40%. Further steps will be in our forthcoming dental plan.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that developer contributions should be spent on improving local infrastructure affected by major housing developments?
Context
The MP highlights a situation where local people are losing confidence in the use of developer contributions.
Rachel Maclean
My hon. Friend highlights a most unsatisfactory state of affairs from Labour-run Kirklees Council. We are introducing a new infrastructure levy that will bring much-needed transparency. Local authorities, including Kirklees, should be spending the money on the infrastructure needed for local people.
Session: House Building
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As well as contributing through the international fund for Ukraine and the Ukraine defence contact group, I really welcome that the UK has contributed an additional £60 million to NATO's comprehensive assistance package for Ukraine, which focuses on capacity building in key areas such as cyber and logistics. What is my right hon. Friend's assessment of whether Ukraine is receiving the right kind of assistance from NATO to support its longer-term ambitions for NATO membership?
Context
The UK has contributed to NATO's comprehensive assistance package for Ukraine.
Ben Wallace
NATO's comprehensive assistance package for Ukraine is providing urgent non-lethal assistance to enable the defence of Ukraine. The CAP also focuses on meeting Ukraine's longer-term needs, including reconstruction and transition to NATO standards, which are essential for countries wishing to join the alliance. Since February 2022, the UK has contributed £82 million to the CAP.
Session: Ukraine Military Support
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A number of smaller schools across my Colne Valley constituency have increasing numbers of SEND students. What can the Department do to cajole Labour-run Kirklees Council to deliver timely education, health and care plans and ensure that it is delivering the financial support for the extra educational assistance that these children need?
Claire Coutinho
The work of teaching assistants is incredibly important to the SEND arena. We have taken education funding to real-term historic highs for mainstream education and we have increased the high-needs block by more than 50%.
Session: Topical Questions
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I again congratulate my right hon. Friend on the announcement of the delivery of long-range Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine. I am proud that the UK has been able to provide this vital capability to the Ukrainians ahead of their long-expected counter-offensive. Given that the Ukrainians will need all the support they can get for that, can he reassure me that the second spending round of the international fund for Ukraine is proceeding at pace? When might we expect to see contracts placed with the remaining £300 million?
Context
The MP congratulates the government on announcing the delivery of long-range Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine and asks about the progress of the second spending round of the international fund for Ukraine.
Ben Wallace
My hon. Friend will be glad to know that the second spending round was launched last month. It is seeking expressions of interest in a phased approach, beginning with the needs for air defence, long-range strike and mobility support, and it is open to huge numbers of SMEs to apply for funding. Submissions are being assessed right now and more requirements will be launched in the coming weeks. Successful companies will be chosen by the UK, alongside our IFU partners, and contracting will begin as soon as possible.
Session: Ukrainian Military Defence
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What steps his Department is taking to help support Ukraine's military defence against Russia?
Context
The question addresses the ongoing support provided by the UK and its allies to help Ukraine defend against Russia. The MP inquires about specific measures being taken.
Ben Wallace
The UK, our allies and partners are continuing to respond decisively to support Ukraine as the conflict evolves. We have trained over 15,000 recruits and provided £2.4 billion of support, including artillery ammunition, as well as leading the world on the gifting of vital capabilities such as multiple-launch rocket systems, Challenger 2 tanks and now Storm Shadow missiles.
Session: Ukrainian Military Defence
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My hard-pressed constituents are still suffering a totally unacceptable number of cancelled rail services by TransPennine Express every morning—just yesterday from Huddersfield, the 6.49, the 7.01, the 7.30, and the 7.46. How on earth are my constituents expected to get to work, school, college or university? When will TransPennine Express get a grip and when will we strip them of the franchise?
Context
TransPennine Express has been cancelling numerous morning services from Huddersfield, causing significant inconvenience for commuters.
Huw Merriman
As the Secretary of State made clear, we should all try to fix the systemic problems that exist on the route. Let me give one example: at the moment, when a driver calls in sick—and there are sickness rates of 14%—another driver will cover it only if they are working under rest day working. However, the unions will not agree to rest day working, so the train gets cancelled.
Session: Topical Questions
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Whereas most countries have police forces, we are proud to have a police service in Britain, with police officers playing an integral role in the communities in which they live and work. That is why I particularly welcome the 16,000-plus police officers who are being recruited. In West Yorkshire, in my patch, that means 589 additional police officers. What extra will the Home Secretary do to ensure that we recruit high-quality police officers while also retaining those experienced officers in our local forces?
Context
West Yorkshire has seen an increase of police officers through the government's recruitment drive. The question seeks assurance on quality and retention.
Suella Braverman (Home Secretary)
West Yorkshire police have recruited 837 additional police officers to December, against their total allocation of 852. This is an unprecedented recruitment drive giving forces the opportunity to recruit the brightest and the best into policing.
Session: Topical Questions
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If she will make a statement on her departmental responsibilities. The questioner seeks clarity on how efficiently the passport system operates and its current performance following the impact of the global pandemic.
Context
The question arises from the need for transparency on departmental operations.
Suella Braverman (Home Secretary)
I am going to make a short topical statement. It is very important that our passport system runs as efficiently as possible. In 2022, His Majesty's Passport Office served more customers than ever before. Staff numbers have increased by over 1,200 since April 2021 and many staff have been trained to deal with a broader range of applications. Despite high demand so far this year, approximately 99% of all UK applications were completed within 10 weeks and approximately 97% within three weeks last week.
Session: Topical Questions
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Today's front page of the Daily Mail suggests Britain is something for nothing. Will the Secretary of State distance himself from this ridiculous remark and clarify his stance regarding the state pension being considered something for nothing?
Context
The Daily Mail reported on a 'something for nothing' Britain, likely referring to social benefits such as the state pension.
Mel Stride
A hallmark of a civilised society is looking after its most vulnerable. The Government has a proud record in supporting vulnerable people, including cost-of-living support for 8 million low-income households.
Session: Topical Questions
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An important part of levelling-up communities is to invest in the community transport network. Last week, I visited Shettleston-based Community Transport Glasgow alongside Councillor Laura Doherty. They were telling me that they were having real difficulty attracting volunteers because of HMRC rules around mileage rates. Is that something that the Government are willing to look at? Will the Minister be willing to meet me and Community Transport Glasgow to discuss that issue?
Context
The importance of investing in community transport networks, with difficulties such as HMRC rules around mileage rates hindering volunteer recruitment.
John Glen
We keep these matters under review, but I am sure my colleague the Financial Secretary, who takes a close interest in these matters, will follow up in the appropriate way.
Session: Levelling Up Communities Fiscal Steps
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I thank the 3,500 NATO troops from various countries, especially UK forces, for participating in Exercise Iron Wolf II in Lithuania. The exercise defended our democratic freedoms against hostile powers. Does he agree that the UK's defence is best served by continued NATO cooperation?
Context
Exercise Iron Wolf II involved NATO troops, including many British soldiers, in Lithuania to defend against foreign threats.
James Heappey (Conservative)
I join the hon. Member in congratulating all troops from countries participating in Exercise Iron Wolf II, including British soldiers enjoying NATO cooperation and enhancing security for both the UK and Europe.
Session: Topical Questions
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How does the Defence Secretary assess the success of this programme so far, and how does he see it evolving over the summer?
Context
The Prime Minister offered to train up to 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers in the UK. The first cohort arrived earlier this month.
Ben Wallace
I am not sure whether my hon. Friend has visited the sites, but I am delighted to have visited one of the sites twice. The first course completes this week, and it has been a learning experience for both sides. We will continue to invest in improving the course, and I am delighted that the international community has now joined us. The Dutch have declared that they will send people to support the training, and the New Zealanders were already here to help the Ukrainians on 105-mm artillery. We are talking with a number of other international partners about delivery.
Session: Ukrainian Resistance to Russian Aggression
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What assessment has the Department made of the effectiveness of Ukrainian resistance to Russian aggression?
Context
Multiple reports indicate Ukrainian resistance and partisan activity in areas under Russian control. Russia has deported 2.5 million people from Ukraine through filtration camps.
Ben Wallace
There have been multiple reports of Ukrainian resistance and partisan activity in areas under Russian control, particularly in the south of the country. This has likely forced Russia to dedicate additional security personnel to areas it has occupied. Russia has deported 2.5 million people from Ukraine to Russia through filtration camps, and it has also likely detained and interrogated thousands of Ukrainians to try to quell the resistance. Such action will not deter Ukraine, and it will not deter the United Kingdom from continuing to support Ukraine in her fight.
Session: Ukrainian Resistance to Russian Aggression
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What role does my right hon. Friend see apprenticeships playing in that work?
Context
The question follows a discussion on the role of apprenticeships in transitioning ex-offenders into work.
Dominic Raab (Secretary of State for Justice)
Working with the Department for Education, we are introducing a statutory instrument to introduce apprenticeships in prison. That SI will pass in September, and we will start the first apprenticeship straight away.
Session: Reoffending Rates
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Chevening scholarships help exceptional international students study in the UK. What is being done to ensure that Ukrainian students can still access this programme despite their current situation?
Context
The question concerns the impact of war on Ukrainian students' ability to participate in scholarship programmes.
Vicky Ford
Prior to Russia's terrible invasion, 68 Ukrainian candidates were shortlisted for interviews for those really special Chevening scholarships. Obviously, those interviews could not take place, but I am absolutely delighted to give those brilliant, talented and often young people some good news: they will all be offered scholarships. That will treble the number of Chevening scholarships offered to Ukraine. For those who are unable to take up their scholarships, if, for example, they are defending their country, they will be able to defer.
Session: Topical Questions
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How is he balancing the timescales of that with supplying the existing Soviet-era weaponry with the ammunition it needs for the fight today and this week?
Context
Ukrainian community in Huddersfield and Colne Valley appreciates UK support, but there are concerns about the balance between new NATO artillery and existing Soviet systems.
Ben Wallace
MLRS and self-propelled 155s from donor countries are being sent to assist Ukraine in deep fires capability. Training alongside other countries is also provided, emphasizing the use of NATO ammunition rather than Soviet stock for sustainability.
Session: Support for Ukraine’s Military
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What support his Department is providing to Ukraine's military?
Context
UK's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian forces.
Ben Wallace
The UK has committed £1.3 billion for military operations and aid to Ukraine, including lethal and non-lethal aid such as multiple launch rocket systems, body armour, range finders, medical equipment, and training.
Session: Support for Ukraine’s Military
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The integrated rail plan will see huge amounts of money invested into the TransPennine rail route, with major upgrades at not only Huddersfield railway station but Slaithwaite and Marsden in my constituency. How will the Minister ensure, though, that the disruption that will be caused during these much-needed works will be kept to a minimum and that local communities will be fully engaged with and consulted about the scale of the works needed?
Context
The integrated rail plan will see major upgrades on the TransPennine railway, which could cause significant disruption.
Stuart Andrew
My hon. Friend makes a powerful point. As much notice as possible will be provided of any disruption along the route of the TransPennine upgrade, and we will continue to work with the industry and delivery partners to ensure that any disruption is kept to a minimum. In advance of closures, plans are being developed to ensure that sufficient services are maintained, whether by diverted trains or bus replacement services. We are also relying on innovation to ensure that we have to close the track for less time than previously.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am going to raise the issue of local bus services as well. What plans are being put in place to make local bus services across Colne Valley more reliable, more regular, more affordable and more environmentally friendly?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the reliability, regularity, cost, and environmental impact of local bus services in his constituency.
Trudy Harrison
My hon. Friend is a doughty champion, and he has set out exactly what our national bus strategy wants to achieve. I am thrilled at the ambition that I am hearing from across the House—and, indeed, the country —for better bus services. That is what we want to achieve. I feel the disappointment, but as was set out in the letter of 4 April to the unsuccessful areas, this is not the end of the road—far from it. We will continue the support.
Session: Local Transport
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Does the Secretary of State agree that existing colleges are best placed to support disadvantaged students in my area into universities?
Context
Kirklees is an education investment area with outstanding sixth-form providers.
Nadhim Zahawi
Universities should work in partnership with colleges and local schools, raising standards so that students from disadvantaged backgrounds have more options and can choose the path that is right for them.
Session: Topical Questions
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When will details be shared about the next round of levelling-up fund bids that are transforming constituencies like Colne Valley?
Context
The hon. Member is working on levelling-up fund bids for railway line upgrades and regeneration of disused mills in his constituency.
Michael Gove
Colne Valley and Kirklees broadly have a strong advocate in the hon. Friend, with his bid having much merit. The Secretary of State for Transport and Chancellor will discuss what can be done, but more details will be shared when the Chancellor makes his spring statement.
Session: Levelling-up White Paper Impact on Regional Inequality
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On behalf of my constituents with blood cancer, I ask the Secretary of State to consider providing free asymptomatic testing for their close contacts. Will he do so?
Context
Concerns about asymptomatic testing for close contacts of immunocompromised people.
Sajid Javid
We will keep under review our testing offer and consider any changes necessary, but we are targeting free asymptomatic testing on vulnerable people including those who are immunocompromised.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am concerned about the unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. Will the Secretary of State make a statement on his departmental responsibilities regarding this situation?
Context
The invasion of Ukraine by Russia prompted a humanitarian emergency.
Sajid Javid
I share the horror and disgust at Putin's invasion. We are providing humanitarian support to Ukraine including 50,000 medical supplies sent via Poland on Sunday night with more supplies being sent today.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will my hon. Friend ensure that veterans who leave the services with skills in strategic sectors such as heavy goods vehicles are given support through the Way to Work scheme?
Context
None provided, initial question.
Mims Davies
DWP already has a range of provisions in place to upskill jobseekers to take on key roles such as HGV drivers, including through the sector-based work academy programme, which give claimants the skills and qualifications that they need directly to take up local driver roles.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister continue to work with us so that we can get investment in this single-track line leading to real positivity for local connectivity? The integrated rail plan invests in the trans-Pennine route through Slaithwaite and Marsden, while another important line from Huddersfield to Sheffield remains underfunded.
Context
The MP highlights a levelling-up bid for the single-track rail line connecting Huddersfield, Penistone, and Sheffield, which is crucial for local connectivity but currently lacks significant investment.
Andrew Stephenson
The integrated rail plan confirms Government will continue investing in smaller rail enhancements across the north and midlands alongside major projects like trans-Pennine route upgrade, HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail. Meeting to discuss further can be arranged on a future visit.
Session: Rail Services Yorkshire
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What steps he is taking to improve local rail services in Yorkshire. Rail passengers in Leeds are benefiting from a recent £161 million investment, but there is a need for further improvements across the region.
Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of investment and improvement in local rail services in his constituency, which affects daily commutes and economic development.
Andrew Stephenson
The Government are committed to improving rail services across the north of England with a £96 billion investment plan over 30 years, including recent £161 million investment at Leeds station.
Session: Rail Services Yorkshire
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Following the Government's biosecurity consultation, can the Minister please reassure the House that the tree sourcing standard will allow these future projects to be eligible for Government funding?
Context
The UK and Ireland have a 'sourced and grown' standard for tree planting to ensure biosecurity.
Jo Churchill
I thank my hon. Friend for asking that important question. The plant health management standard will be the future baseline biosecurity standard for Government grants and contracts. That comprehensive standard, with 23 robust biosecurity requirements, covers the domestic production and international supply of all plants.
Session: Tree Planting
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I know the passion of the Chancellor and the Chief Secretary for levelling up, and I welcome the creation of a Treasury campus in the north-east. When the Treasury next relocates, may I encourage my right hon. Friends to look at Huddersfield, Marsden and Slaithwaite in my Colne Valley constituency? They are strategically located on the TransPennine rail route between Leeds, Manchester, and we are set to have millions invested thanks to the integrated rail plan.
Context
The MP invites the Treasury to consider his constituency for a future campus location, emphasizing its strategic rail route positioning.
Simon Clarke
I thank my hon. Friend the Member for Colne Valley (Jason McCartney) for his invitation, and I look forward to being in Darlington at the Treasury's northern hub this week. I am glad to hear of my hon. Friend's support for the wider investment on the TransPennine rail route, which will improve connectivity between Manchester, Leeds and York, including Marsden and Huddersfield, with benefits starting this decade. Diary permitting, I would be delighted to discuss a visit to see that investment in action.
Session: Regional Growth
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Will the Minister continue to prioritize fair trade in new trade deals so that we can support Fairtrade producers around the world?
Context
Support for Fairtrade products has been growing among British people, including bananas, coffee, and chocolate.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Now that we are a sovereign independent nation, we want to ensure that we use trade for good. Next year, we will work closely with African colleagues to boost trading relations and support developing countries.
Session: Topical Questions
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Growing British exports has a key role in our levelling-up agenda. I am particularly proud of some world-class textile, engineering, sheet metal fabricators and food and drink businesses in my Yorkshire constituency. What more can the Minister and his Department do to support my world-class Yorkshire businesses to export to the world?
Context
The MP highlights world-class businesses in his constituency that are looking to expand their exports.
Mike Freer
Our export strategy will ensure that those companies in Yorkshire will be supported through all stages of their exporting journey, whether through the UK Export Academy, the advice of our global network of international trade experts, or the financial support or export credit provided by UK Export Finance. In my recent visit to Leeds, I met our excellent team of international trade advisers there. Again, I am more than happy to put them in contact with my hon. Friend to provide additional support.
Session: British Exports
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What steps her Department is taking to increase British exports?
Context
The MP is inquiring about steps being taken by the Department for increasing British exports.
Mike Freer
The Secretary of State announced a refreshed export strategy—Made in Britain, Sold to the World—on 17 November during International Trade Week. This business-centred 12-point plan is designed to transform our support for exporters, encourage them to sell to the world and accelerate our race to £1 trillion-worth of exports per year.
Session: British Exports
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With covid case rates across my area of Kirklees still above the national average, what extra support can be given to Kirklees to help to keep deaths and hospitalisations low and to boost the booster programme in Kirklees?
Context
The MP noted that his area of Kirklees has higher than average covid cases and raised concerns about hospitalisations.
Sajid Javid
My hon. Friend is right to raise the extra pressures that Kirklees is seeing. Public health officials and local council members are doing everything they can. Extra support is available—something we keep under review—but he is right to raise the importance of the booster programme. The more people who get boosted and the sooner they do so when they are eligible, the better it will be for not just them but the whole community.
Session: Topical Questions
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As a fellow animal lover, Mr Speaker, I know that you, like me, will appreciate the extreme distress that the theft of a much loved family pet can cause. These measures cannot come soon enough, so can the Justice Secretary confirm how soon they will be brought forward to tackle pet theft?
Context
Over 2,000 pet dogs were reported stolen last year, highlighting the need for urgent action.
Robert Buckland
I reassure my hon. Friend that we are already working on the new proposed offence of pet abduction and that work is already under way with many of the other recommendations stemming from the report, such as the review of microchipping and improvements in the recording of these offences.
Session: Pet Theft
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Sixth-form education will play a pivotal role in building back better after covid. Will the Secretary of State join me, please, in supporting an increase in base rate funding for sixth-form students to at least £4,760 in the forthcoming spending review? Will he also please agree to meet members of the all-party parliamentary group on sixth-form education, which I co-chair?
Context
The Government is expected to allocate additional funds for sixth-form students in the next spending review.
Gavin Williamson
I would be absolutely delighted to meet my hon. Friend and colleagues on the all-party parliamentary group on sixth-form education. He will no doubt be aware that we have already been putting extra resources into 16-to-19 education. An additional £400 million was awarded in 2019. We recognise that it is important to invest in the quality of estate, which is why we are putting £1.5 billion into upgrading that estate.
Session: Topical Questions
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I have been contacted by a number of my Colne Valley constituents who have had operations and medical procedures cancelled or postponed at short notice. With coronavirus cases still on the rise, what is the strategy to tackle the backlog in operations and medical procedures?
Context
Constituents in Colne Valley have reported cancellations and postponements of medical procedures due to rising coronavirus cases. With over 5 million people on the waiting list, concerns about tackling the backlog are growing.
Edward Argar
My hon Friend rightly raises an issue that I know will be a concern for constituents of all Members of this House. The backlog of treatment—the waiting list—is over 5 million. However, we are making rapid progress with that and so is the NHS. We are looking at a variety of ways to do that—not just providing the funding needed to do it, but through innovation, accelerator hubs and diagnostic hubs, all designed to get the waiting list down and to get people the treatment they need when they need it.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
21 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Ukraine and Georgia
15 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defence Personnel Data Breach
07 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defence Spending
24 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Hospice Funding
22 April 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Calls on integrated care boards to urgently address the funding for hospice-provided palliative care. Emphasises the importance of end-of-life care as a legal right, highlights financial pressures fac...
Rail Manufacturing: Job Losses
16 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran-Israel Update
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Cass Review
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defending the UK and Allies
15 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
War in Ukraine
24 October 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
13
PMQs Asked
65
Ministerial Questions Asked
132
House of Commons Debates Involved
0
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+255% above average
This MP:
13
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+385% above average
This MP:
65
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2616% above average
This MP:
132
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Jason McCartney's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.