Jeff Smith
MP for Manchester Withington
Lab
7 May 2015 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Will the Prime Minister and Members across the House consider supporting amendments to the Health Bill to remove some of the barriers to important research and treatment?
Context
There is promising evidence about the use of psychedelic therapy for mental health and trauma, but access for research is difficult due to bureaucratic regulations.
Andy Burnham
The government is happy to look at the amendments and will ask a Health Minister to meet the MP to discuss them. Any changes must be evidence-based and proportionate, maintaining safeguards.
Assessment
Did not commit to supporting the amendments directly
Reiterating Commitment To Research And Evidence-Based Approach
Session: PMQs 2026-09-02
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Will the Deputy Prime Minister join me in welcoming Bev's pledge to extend free travel on public transport to all 11 to 18-year-olds, so all our young people in Greater Manchester can have the independence to travel to the work, education and leisure opportunities they deserve?
Context
Greater Manchester residents are set to vote in three weeks' time for the next mayor. Bev Craig is a strong candidate backed by many locals.
David Lammy
I agree with my hon. Friend: Bev Craig will be a brilliant mayor for Greater Manchester. I am proud that Labour is putting power over bus services back in the hands of local leaders. This Government have extended franchising powers, capped fares and invested to deliver better services, and we are ensuring that children can enjoy free bus travel this summer.
Assessment
The Deputy Prime Minister did not explicitly support Bev's pledge; instead, he focused on their own actions regarding public transport.
Stating General Achievements
Session: PMQs 2026-07-08
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Why has the government's programme failed to recognise the impact on organisations across Bristol South? In the week of COP, what more can we do to ensure that new public buildings have green energy designed into them?
Context
The MP visited the new diagnostic centre at Withington community hospital, where he saw solar panels and heat pumps being designed into the building.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
The UK is leading on tackling climate change, delivering energy security, getting bills down and generating hundreds of jobs across the country. We are investing over £250 million to put rooftop solar on schools, hospitals and military sites across the country, which will deliver £400 million of savings to renew our public services.
Session: PMQs
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As Palestinians try to rebuild their lives amid the rubble of Gaza, last night once again dozens of innocent people were killed by Israeli airstrikes. What will the UK do, along with our international partners, to hold the Israeli—the Netanyahu—Government to account for their actions, and what more can we do to ensure that aid gets in as the Israel Defence Forces block aid in breach of both the peace agreement and international law?
Context
The situation in Gaza where Israeli airstrikes have caused significant civilian casualties and damage, leading to a humanitarian crisis. The conflict involves breaches of peace agreements and international law.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this point. I am deeply concerned by the strikes. This underlines the fragility of the ceasefire deal. All sides need to uphold President Trump’s peace plan. It is the only route to long-term peace for Israelis and Palestinians. We are of course in close touch with the US and regional allies pushing for de-escalation. The scale of destruction in Gaza is unimaginable. The immediate priority remains getting aid in at the speed and the volume needed.
Assessment
No specific steps or commitments were provided to hold Israel accountable for their actions or address the humanitarian crisis directly.
Session: PMQs
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Who does he think caused the instability?
Context
MP questions the cause of economic instability before the Conservative government took office in 2010.
Oliver Dowden
Labour Members might want to forget it, but I remember the day the Conservatives came into office in 2010. What was the note left on the desk of the Chief Secretary to the Treasury? “There is no money left.” That is the challenge that we have addressed through the Prime Minister and Chancellor successively.
Assessment
The questioner asked for an acknowledgment or explanation regarding who was responsible for causing economic instability prior to 2010. The answer did not directly address this issue but provided context about when they took office.
Provided Historical Context
Did Not Acknowledge Causes Of Instability
Session: PMQs
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The Home Secretary appointed Imran Ahmad Khan, who was under police investigation and later found guilty of assaulting a minor, to an expert panel offering advice on sexual exploitation after receiving a complaint from his victim. Is the Prime Minister ashamed that his party did not take the victim seriously? Does he wish to apologise?
Context
Home Secretary put Imran Ahmad Khan, under police investigation for alleged assault of a minor, on an expert panel offering advice on sexual exploitation. He was found guilty.
Boris Johnson
The Home Office has already made a statement about it. If there is further comment, they will make another statement.
Assessment
Did not address whether PM wishes to apologise
Referred Issue To The Department
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister is visiting Saudi Arabia and, as usual, we are told there will be frank, private discussions on the Saudis' human rights record. In the light of the state murder of Jamal Khashoggi, and in the light of the brutal execution of 81 men at the weekend, why does the Deputy Prime Minister think the UK's representations on human rights are so ineffective? What more will we do to make the Saudis behave ethically?
Context
Prime Minister is visiting Saudi Arabia amid concerns over human rights.
Dominic Raab
I went to Riyadh twice when I was Foreign Secretary, and I know the Prime Minister will be raising these issues again. We talked about women's rights defenders. The hon. Gentleman says we have been ineffective, but they have all been released. We talked about Raif Badawi, the author and critic, and he was recently released. The hon. Gentleman mentions Jamal Khashoggi, and we were one of the first to apply asset freezes and visa bans to those responsible for his murder.
Assessment
Did not commit to specific future actions or changes in policy.
Session: PMQs
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Why should people in Greater Manchester receive less help from the government if they go back into tier 3 after December 2nd, given that workplace closures lead to income loss?
Context
Greater Manchester receives less support under tier 3 compared to the new restrictions, despite similar economic impacts.
Boris Johnson
The furlough scheme was extended until October. We are putting measures in place now to support people across the UK throughout this period, including after December 2nd.
Assessment
No specific commitment on equal tier 3 and national lockdown support was made.
Mentioning Existing Furlough Scheme
Session: PMQs
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Encouraged by the success of the city visitor charge in Manchester, raising £10 million for investment in advertising, tourism and cleaning. Will the Minister join me in rejecting the scaremongering and reminding people that this is a purely permissive measure? It is up to local areas to do it if they want.
Context
The MP encourages the success of the city visitor charge in Manchester, raising £10 million for investment, and rejects scaremongering.
Stephanie Peacock
The Government are committed to caution against scaremongering. Local areas have the powers to make the decisions themselves.
Session: Overnight Visitor Levy Rural and Coastal Communities 2026-09-03
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Brexit has created a number of serious barriers to the ability of UK artists to tour in Europe. Has the Minister had a chance to look at the recently published Culture, Media and Sport Committee report on this issue?
Context
Barriers created by Brexit for UK artists touring in Europe.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
Yes, I have. It remains a priority for the Government to work with our colleagues on this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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Following the agreement at the May 2025 summit to establish a UK-EU youth experience scheme, can the Minister update the House on the progress of negotiations on the scheme and confirm that it remains a Government priority?
Context
Agreement at the May 2025 summit to establish a UK-EU youth experience scheme.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
I certainly can. Negotiations have been proceeding very well. I look forward to making the case for those opportunities to work, travel and study for young people—I think it is very exciting.
Session: UK-EU Relations
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I thank the Minister for that answer; there is some good news there. One of the many negatives of Brexit is that it has placed barriers on UK artists being able to tour in Europe. The Culture, Media and Sport Committee has just published its report, featuring a number of practical measures that the Government can take to remove those barriers. Will Ministers act on those recommendations? I point to one in particular. As well as leaving the EU, the UK decided not to participate in the Creative Europe scheme, which we were net beneficiaries of. Ahead of the upcoming EU-UK summit, a signal that we intend to participate in the successor scheme, AgoraEU, would be a positive message to our creative artists.
Context
The MP noted that Brexit has placed barriers on UK artists touring in Europe. The Culture, Media and Sport Committee published a report with practical measures to remove these barriers.
Ian Murray
I congratulate the Committee on its report. We are carefully considering the recommendations and will form a response in due course. The Prime Minister agreed with the European Commission President to press ahead with the UK-EU summit on 22 July, so that people can feel the benefits of the UK-EU collaboration as soon as possible.
Session: UK Artists Touring in Europe
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What steps her Department is taking to help support UK artists touring in Europe?
Context
The MP noted that Brexit has placed barriers on UK artists touring in Europe. The Culture, Media and Sport Committee published a report with practical measures to remove these barriers.
Ian Murray
I congratulate the Committee on its report. We are carefully considering the recommendations and will form a response in due course. The Prime Minister agreed with the European Commission President to press ahead with the UK-EU summit on 22 July, so that people can feel the benefits of UK-EU collaboration as soon as possible.
Session: UK Artists Touring in Europe
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There have been over 760 incidents this year, resulting in casualties, property damage and 57 deaths. Diplomacy and action so far are not moving the dial. What will it take for the Government to take further action, and go further on sanctions?
Context
The question is prompted by a significant number of violent incidents in the West Bank involving settlers, leading to casualties and property damage.
Yvette Cooper
Last week we did take further action and set out a new wave of sanctions. On Friday I went to Paris for a meeting with other Foreign Ministers, met civil society organisations and community organisations from across Israel and Palestine. Last week we launched the international peace fund with Australia and Canada in order to support the community-level building of the foundations of a two-state solution. Later this week I will go to Egypt to have similar discussions.
Session: West Bank Settler Activity
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What progress can we expect on improving journey times and reliability and reducing cancellations, and what more investment can we expect to improve facilities for passengers across the north?
Context
The MP inquires about the trans-Pennine route upgrade's impact on improving journey times, reliability, and facilities for passengers.
Keir Mather
The Department is investing in multimillion-pound rail infrastructure improvements across the north, including in Manchester. The £11 billion investment in the trans-Pennine route upgrade will electrify the 76-mile route between Manchester and York, increasing capacity and improving reliability with faster, cleaner and more frequent trains.
Session: Passenger Rail Services
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What steps she is taking to improve passenger rail services?
Context
The MP is concerned about steps to improve rail services in his constituency.
Keir Mather
Great British Railways will create a railway run by the people for the people, turning the tide on a decade of decline under the previous Government. Eighty per cent of the rail journeys that will ultimately be run by GBR are now being run by publicly owned operators, and we are already seeing more reliable services as a result.
Session: Passenger Rail Services
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What more do they have to do before we take action and ban settlement trade?
Context
Tariff preferences do not cover goods from illegal settlements, but there is a call for more action beyond that.
Yvette Cooper
My hon. Friend is right to point out that this is fundamentally about the two-state solution, and it also risks undermining the Gaza peace process.
Session: West Bank Illegal Settlements
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The Government deal with a huge number of arm's length public bodies of variable value and success. What progress are Ministers making on tackling the number and effectiveness of arm's length public bodies?
Context
The MP is concerned about the number and effectiveness of arm's length public bodies managed by the Government.
Anna Turley
I thank my hon. Friend for that really important question. We have undertaken an arm's length body review, and it is making serious progress. We have already seen NHS England removed, to make sure that we bring our important services under democratic control. We are also looking to make a huge amount of savings in this area. I look forward to updating my hon. Friend and the House on progress shortly.
Session: Topical Questions
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I congratulate my hon. Friend on his well-deserved elevation to ministerial office. Even though digital ID will make it easier for people to access public services and engage with public bodies, there is still an awful lot of disinformation, and frankly conspiracy theories, out there trying to undermine the case for it. Do the Government have any specific plans to try to counter those narratives as part of the consultation?
Context
Disinformation and conspiracy theories are circulating about the digital ID scheme, undermining its case.
James Frith
I thank my hon. Friend for his well wishes; I am grateful for the opportunity to help to dispel any misinformation on this exciting programme of digital transformation of our public services. Let me be clear: this will not be compulsory, and there is no central pot of data. In my early conversations, I have already been assured of the security of data by design and the intentions of this plan to make digital ID not compulsory, but something that people deem for themselves to be a “must have”. It is for us to rise to this challenge in our design and delivery of it. More broadly, we want to have a national conversation. The upcoming consultation will clearly set out the Government's position on this programme.
Session: Digital ID Scheme Public consultation
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What steps he plans to take to consult the public on the design of the digital ID scheme.
Context
There is a need for public consultation on the design of a new digital ID scheme to personalise public services and improve access.
James Frith
Public services should be there for us when we need them, but right now it is too hard for people to get what they need. The new, free-to-access digital ID intends to change that by supporting the personalising of public services, making everyday life easier for everyone. The consultation will be launched next week to ensure that the public can have their say on how we make digital ID work for them.
Session: Digital ID Scheme Public consultation
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I have constituents affected by the infected blood scandal. Justice for them and other victims is long overdue, so I am pleased that the Government are making progress on this issue. May I ask how many interim £100,000 payments have been made to date to the estates of people who have sadly passed away?
Context
The Infected Blood Compensation Scheme is addressing a long-standing scandal affecting individuals who were infected with diseases through contaminated blood products. Constituents are seeking justice and compensation.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
I am more than happy to write to my hon. Friend with an up-to-date, precise figure for interim payments. I should also mention that, as was raised with me in the House on a number of occasions in the autumn, inheritance tax bit on secondary beneficiaries, and I was pleased that this Government dealt with that issue at the Budget.
Session: Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
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It will be impossible to get the necessary aid into Gaza until the Rafah crossing is fully open. Will the Minister update us on progress in trying to persuade the Netanyahu Government to do the right thing and open the Rafah crossing?
Context
The Rafah crossing is critical for delivering aid to Gaza, which faces a humanitarian crisis.
Hamish Falconer
I thank my hon. Friend for his question and his continued advocacy on these issues. The 20-point plan clearly outlined the need to open the Rafah crossing, and indeed other crossings. There have been discussions between various partners, but we continue to press the Israelis to open all the crossings now.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituents in Manchester are left constantly frustrated by delays and cancellations, not just on the west coast main line, but on our east-west routes, and on services all around Manchester. What are the Government doing, alongside partners, to drive improvements in services to our Manchester stations?
Context
The MP expresses frustration about delays and cancellations on west coast main line services as well as east-west routes through Manchester.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Keir Mather)
My hon. Friend is championing the right of his constituents to use the train to get to where they need to. Alongside local stakeholders, the DFT created the Manchester taskforce in 2020 to identify solutions to performance problems throughout the city. The December 2023 timetable has delivered improvements in reliability of around 30%, and new infrastructure may enable more services to be introduced.
Session: Passenger Rail Performance Improvements
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I warmly welcome the announcement of solar panels at Ladybarn primary school in Withington—it is great news for an excellent school in my patch and good news for the planet. I have also seen good investment in solar panels on hospital buildings in my patch, and we clearly need to scale that up. How can having Great British Energy as a publicly owned company help us to do that?
Context
Following up on the announcement of solar panels at public services, including schools and hospitals. The question highlights specific instances in Manchester Withington.
The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)
Great British Energy is our idea for a publicly owned energy company—the first in 70 years—that will drive forward investment in the clean power transition and in supply chains, creating jobs across the country and bringing down bills for the public sector, as in these examples in the NHS and at military sites and schools, so that we can invest more in frontline services.
Session: Great British Energy Public Services and Renewable Energy
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Why has the Government proved incapable of averting this crisis?
Context
The National Audit Office warned that prisons would run out of space by 2023, and only a quarter of the promised 20,000 places have been delivered.
Alex Chalk
As a result of the record amount of investment in prisons, we brought on HMP Fosse Way, and we have HMP Five Wells. I invite the hon. Member to visit them, because these are excellent, modern prisons with fantastic rehabilitative conditions, providing an excellent opportunity to keep the public secure and prisoners rehabilitated. We will also be rolling out HMP Millsike. We have planning permission for HMP Gartree. We are also rolling out houseblocks at Stocken, Rye Hill and Guys Marsh; and there will be further ones at Gartree.
Session: Prison Capacity
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There are 4.3 million children living in relative poverty and over a million in destitution across the UK, including 120,000 in Manchester. What does my Minister think about how the Government's economic policies have contributed to these figures?
Context
Recent statistics reveal that there are currently 4.3 million children living in relative poverty in the UK, with one million experiencing destitution. Manchester has the second highest levels of destitution.
Jo Churchill
Our economy is performing well, and inflation is down to 3.2%. Additional support through the household support fund, extended for six months, provides financial assistance. I would ask the hon. Gentleman to inquire with Greater Manchester on how £32.3 million was allocated.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Chancellor recently claimed £100,000 a year is not a huge salary. Does he realise how out of touch that sounds to families earning much less?
Context
Families in the constituency are struggling with increased shop costs and mortgages.
Jeremy Hunt
The shadow Chancellor suggests falling inflation is not significant; I disagree.
Session: Topical Questions
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Based on her recent visit, does she think that there is a need to go further and sanction those extremist Israeli politicians who are encouraging the violent and illegal expansion of settlements?
Context
The Attorney General recently visited the region and saw actions of settlers against Bedouin communities.
Victoria Prentis
When I visited the region with the hon. Member for York Central (Rachael Maskell) many years ago, we saw some of the actions of settlers in the occupied territories. So far as I was able to, I reprised that visit when I went to the region most recently, and I was surprised at the difference in the level of violence used. I was able to visit a Bedouin village and talk to those who feel that at a very difficult time for the farming community, during lambing, they were being pushed off their land. I listened very carefully to what the hon. Gentleman said, and I reassure him that the Government continue to keep this issue under review.
Session: International Humanitarian Law
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What discussions she had with her Israeli and Palestinian counterparts on compliance with international humanitarian law during her visit to the middle east in February 2024.
Context
The question arises from the Attorney General's visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories in February 2024.
Victoria Prentis
I visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories between 14 and 16 February. In Israel, I met Israel's Attorney General, lawyers for the Israel Defence Forces, and the president of the Supreme Court. In the west bank, I met the Palestinian Attorney General and the Prime Minister.
Session: International Humanitarian Law
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Does the Secretary of State still think that after 1 May, citizens in Northern Ireland should be denied the right to seek justice through civil cases and inquests?
Context
The High Court ruled this morning regarding the legitimacy of seeking justice for crimes committed during the troubles.
Chris Heaton-Harris
The judgment will take time to consider carefully. We remain committed to implementing the legacy Act.
Session: Troubles Legacy and Reconciliation
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Today we have seen news of another serious attack by the Houthis on a commercial vessel in the gulf of Aden. Do Ministers think that more Royal Navy ships will need to be deployed to the region, given the ongoing threat to merchant shipping?
Context
There was a serious attack on a commercial vessel in the Gulf of Aden, raising concerns about ongoing threats to merchant shipping.
Grant Shapps
We will always look at what is happening in the Red sea based on the reality on the ground. There is now input from a conglomeration of EU countries joining Prosperity Guardian.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Secretary of State now regret his premature decision to extend the contract for Avanti's west coast main line?
Context
Avanti's train service has recently faced cancellations and punctuality issues.
Huw Merriman
The decision to extend the Avanti contract was taken because its performance had improved dramatically. At that time, its self-induced cancellation rates were at 1.5%, down from 13%. Avanti is in the process of hiring 70 drivers per year.
Session: Topical Questions
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Three quarters of police-recorded domestic abuse cases are closed due to evidential difficulties or because the victim does not support further action. Does the Minister agree that Labour's proposal to put rape and domestic abuse specialists in every police force in England and Wales will give women the confidence to come forward and secure more convictions?
Context
The MP is questioning the effectiveness of current measures to tackle domestic abuse, specifically regarding evidential difficulties.
Kemi Badenoch
We will have 2,000 rape specialists across all police forces by April. In the autumn statement, the Prime Minister announced that the Government would provide £2 million of additional funding for a flexible fund that trials one-off payments to victims of domestic abuse. That fund was made available to victims on 31 January.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Does he have an estimate of how many convictions were made during the Horizon pilot? Will he confirm that those convictions will be included in the legislation, given that they were not made using Horizon data?
Context
The Post Office Horizon system failure led to wrongful convictions. The government's plans for legislative proposals need clarification.
Kevin Hollinrake
We do not know that number yet, but we are very concerned about people who used the pilot version of Horizon and were potentially subject to similar abuses. We do believe they fall under similar compensation schemes, and there is no reason why they would not be covered by the legislation to overturn convictions.
Session: Post Office Horizon System Exoneration of Sub-postmasters
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When does she plan to bring forward legislative proposals to exonerate the remaining sub-postmasters with criminal convictions relating to the failure of the Post Office Horizon system?
Context
The Post Office Horizon system failure resulted in wrongful convictions of many postmasters. The government announced plans to overturn these convictions but specifics about the legislative timeline are needed.
Kevin Hollinrake
On 10 January, we announced the Government's intention to bring forward legislation within weeks to overturn the convictions of all those convicted in England or Wales on the basis of Post Office evidence during the Horizon scandal. I met the Justice Secretary only this week to make sure that those plans are on track, and we hope to bring forward that legislation as soon as possible.
Session: Post Office Horizon System Exoneration of Sub-postmasters
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With our mental health services in crisis, why did the Government scrap the long-awaited and overdue mental health Bill, which could have started to alleviate pressures on trusts by reducing the numbers of people detained inappropriately and making services more fit for purpose? Is it not true that we need a Labour Government to take action on this issue?
Context
The question concerns the scrapping of a mental health bill that was expected to alleviate pressures on trusts and improve services.
Maria Caulfield
We are investing a record amount in NHS mental health services, committing £2.3 billion extra a year for the expansion and transformation of services in England, which will enable 2 million more people to access mental health support. I have news for the hon. Gentleman, because we have a plan and it is working. Our investment of £143 million into crisis support is showing early evidence of reducing admissions—admissions are 8% lower. With the crisis telephone services, which are available 24/7, we have admissions down 12%. More importantly, detentions under the Mental Health Act are 15% lower.
Session: Mental Health Services
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What steps she is taking to increase access to mental health services. The entire sector is calling out for reform of the Mental Health Act 1983. With our mental health services in crisis, why did the Government scrap the long-awaited and overdue mental health Bill?
Context
The question stems from the need for increased access to mental health support and investment in services.
Maria Caulfield
We are investing a record amount in NHS mental health services, committing £2.3 billion extra a year for the expansion and transformation of services in England, which will enable 2 million more people to access mental health support. I have news for the hon. Gentleman, because we have a plan and it is working. Our investment of £143 million into crisis support is showing early evidence of reducing admissions—admissions are 8% lower. With the crisis telephone services, which are available 24/7, we have admissions down 12%. More importantly, detentions under the Mental Health Act are 15% lower.
Session: Mental Health Services
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What will the Government do to stop businesses from being debanked in the same manner as individuals?
Context
There is a problem with businesses being debanked, similar to individual customers facing difficulties accessing banking services.
Bim Afolami
I am not sure I accept my hon. Friend's characterisation of the banking industry, but I am happy to meet him and discuss specific business problems regarding access to bank accounts.
Session: Banking Services Access
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More than 5,000 bank branches have closed since 2015. The Lloyds bank in Withington village will join these closures, leaving Withington without a bank branch. By the end of the year, only 30 shared banking hubs are expected to be operational. Does the Minister think that pace and scale of roll-out is good enough?
Context
Since 2015, more than 5,000 bank branches have closed and the Lloyds branch in Withington village is set to close by year-end, leaving Withouting without a bank branch.
Bim Afolami
Decisions on branch openings or closures are commercial ones, but we have legislated to protect access for cash. The Financial Conduct Authority's latest guidance was published last week. In relation to shared banking hubs, the pace at which they are rolled out should indeed be increased.
Session: Banking Services Access
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Does the Minister agree with the US Secretary for Defence when he says that protecting Palestinian civilians in Gaza is both a moral responsibility and a strategic imperative?
Context
The US Secretary of Defense stated that protecting Palestinian civilians is both a moral responsibility and strategic imperative.
Andrew Mitchell
The position of the American Defense Secretary is exactly the position of the British Government, and we say at all points that everyone must adhere to international humanitarian law.
Session: Gaza Civilian Deaths and Humanitarian Situation
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Does she agree that the inclusion of a notwithstanding clause in legislation cannot magic away the international laws to which it refers?
Context
The question follows discussions on the legality of including a notwithstanding clause in legislation.
Victoria Prentis
As the hon. Gentleman knows very well, I am unable to do away with client confidentiality and give him the specifics of any legal advice that I may or may not have given. I take very seriously my obligations to encourage the Government to act in a lawful manner and to ensure that the Government are acting in a lawful manner, both on the domestic front and on the international front.
Session: Rule of Law within Government
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Does the Secretary of State agree that at least this is concerning? A third of my constituents live in energy-rich Scotland but find themselves in fuel poverty. Is that what Unionists mean by pooling and sharing resources?
Context
Recently, the Scottish Fuel Poverty Advisory Panel estimated that nearly 30% of households in Scotland are facing extreme fuel poverty.
Claire Coutinho
We have spent £104 billion protecting the British people, which is one of the most generous packages anywhere in Europe. The hon. Member should back British oil and gas jobs if they care about incomes in Scotland.
Session: Household Income Energy Costs
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There are victims who have waited years for their cases to come to court. What message does the Attorney General send to these victims now?
Context
Victims facing delays due to prison overcrowding, leading to criminals being bailed instead of jailed.
Victoria Prentis
The message that I want to send to victims today is that they are very important to this Government. We want them to come forward and we want to investigate and prosecute the crimes of which they are the victims as well and as expeditiously as we can.
Session: Crown Prosecution Service Access to Justice
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Members will know from my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests that I am an NHS consultant and a member of the British Medical Association. I congratulate the Minister on the work he is doing to reduce waiting lists, but BMA strikes have led to the loss of more than 1 million appointments, have delayed the reporting of scans, including scans for cancer, and have disrupted people's chronic long-term condition treatment. What is he doing to ensure that there are no further strikes? What talks is he having on minimum service levels to expand the provision if further strikes do take place?
Context
BMA strikes have led to the loss of over 1 million appointments, delayed scans reporting including for cancer patients, and disrupted chronic long-term condition treatment.
Will Quince
I thank my hon. Friend for her question, which is better directed at the BMA. However, she is right to suggest that we are taking action on minimum service level legislation. We recognise that industrial action means that services are under increased pressure, with appointments and treatments being cancelled because of the strikes. The NHS is taking action, prioritising urgent and cancer care, and will of course continue to do so. It will do its best to maintain appointments and elective procedures, wherever possible, but she is right to say that these strikes and the actions of the BMA are having a devastating impact on patients.
Session: Cancer Treatment Waiting Times
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Ministers have a tendency to blame covid for increased waiting times, including in respect of cancer. I presume they are aware that the number of cancer patients not getting care on time rose in every year since the Conservatives came to power before the pandemic. How can the Government defend that dreadful record?
Context
The number of cancer patients not getting care on time rose every year before the pandemic under Conservative rule, according to the questioner.
Will Quince
We are continuing to support NHS England in increasing cancer treatment capacity. As I say, I recognise the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of cancer. NHS England has instructed integrated care boards to increase and prioritise the diagnostic and treatment capacity for cancer. As of the middle of this year, we have 93 additional surgical hubs that are currently operational and 123 additional community diagnostic centres, which have delivered more than 5 million additional tests since July 2021, but we know and recognise that we need to do more.
Session: Cancer Treatment Waiting Times
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According to analysis by the Resolution Foundation, more than a third of British households face higher bills from the end of this month because of higher standing charges and the demise of the energy bills support scheme, and the people who use the least energy, and those in the poorest households, are disproportionately worse off. At the same time, the windfall tax has massive loopholes costing billions. Would not closing those loopholes and extending more help to people during the cost of living crisis be the right thing to do?
Context
The Resolution Foundation reports that more than a third of British households face higher bills due to increased standing charges, disproportionately impacting low-energy users and the poorest households.
Amanda Solloway
The hon. Gentleman will be aware that the Government are raising a 75% energy profits levy, and he will also be aware that standing charges are a matter for Ofgem. Let me reiterate, however, that we are mindful of the cost of living crisis and have been providing support with the warm home discount, the £900 cost of living payment, and a raft of other measures to support people through this crisis.
Session: Topical Questions
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Yesterday, I joined my hon. Friend the Member for Cardiff West on the all-party parliamentary group on music for the launch of UK Music's impressive “Manifesto for Music”. The opportunities and risks of AI are a key issue for the industry. Will the Government commit to musicians having a voice and a place at the table for the AI summit in November?
Context
The launch of UK Music's “Manifesto for Music” highlighted the need for musicians' voice in discussions about AI.
Kemi Badenoch
That is certainly something we can look to do. There are many concerns about what will happen to copyright and intellectual property once AI continues to advance in this area.
Session: Topical Questions
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Here is an issue that could be discussed at that meeting: the youth group travel sector is worth £28 billion to the UK economy, but that two-way trade has collapsed since Brexit. The Prime Minister made a vague commitment in March that there would be an agreement for French school groups to visit the UK. We have heard no more details, and anyway we need a wider agreement to include other countries. When will the Government sort out this problem?
Context
The youth group travel sector is worth £28 billion to the UK economy, but trade in this area has collapsed since Brexit. The Prime Minister made a vague commitment in March.
Nusrat Ghani
I think this matter sits not just with our Department, but with the Department for Education. I will write formally to the hon. Gentleman and ensure he receives an update on this issue.
Session: Trade Europe
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Local Clean Air Targets — [Sir Charles Walker in the Chair]
20 October 2020
Responding: Rebecca Pow
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member is concerned about the serious health impacts of air pollution in Greater Manchester, which contributes to around 1,200 early deaths annually. He highlights that air pollution disproportionately affects deprived areas and exacerbates existing inequalities. The hon. Member also notes the growing evidence linking poor air quality with increased risk of respiratory diseases and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neurone disease."]
Specific Asks
["The hon. Member requests that the Government provide additional funding to support Greater Manchester's clean air zone plan, totalling around £150 million, which includes a hardship fund for those most vulnerable to financial impacts. He also calls on the Government to issue clear instructions to Highways England regarding reducing NO2 in strategic road networks and to integrate policy frameworks aimed at addressing nitrogen dioxide, PM2.5, and carbon into one comprehensive clean air fund."]
Ticket Price Regulation: Live Events
09 September 2026
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
Rupa Huq raised concerns over the impact of ticket profiteering in the resale market, particularly in the live music sector. She cited the loss of £145 million annually to touts and the detrimental ef...
Not specified in the provided text - Clause not specified, but it is related to Schedule 12
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Karin Smyth is moving that the clause be read a Second time. She has not provided detailed arguments or statistics in this excerpt, but her intent is to advance the debate on the amendments within Sch...
Not specified in the provided text - Clause being read a Second time
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Karin Smyth, a Labour MP for Bristol South, moved that the clause be read a Second time. The specific details of the amendment and its implications are not provided in the given text.
Health and Care Bill - Schedule 12 - Minor and consequential amendments
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. This amendment aims to make minor and consequential changes to ensure the smooth implementation of the Health and Care Bill. These changes are nec...
Not specified in the provided text - Clause being debated is not specified in the provided text
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The provided text does not contain detailed arguments from Karin Smyth beyond the formal motion to read the clause a second time. Further details are needed for a comprehensive analysis.
Backbench Business
09 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mohamed argues that successive British Governments have acknowledged the illegality and harmful effects of Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories but have failed to take decisive ...
Media Green Paper
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Legacy of Jo Cox
11 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
I thank Jo’s family for their leadership and friendship, praising the tenacity and guts that have inspired others. I commend Kim Leadbeater for stepping into public life and continuing Jo Cox's legacy...
Energy Security
19 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Criticises the Government's energy policy, particularly the ban on new oil and gas licences. Emphasises the negative impact of these policies on Aberdeen, the North East of Scotland, and UK economic s...
Local Government and Regeneration Bill - Lords amendments engaging Commons financial privilege and other Lords amendments to be discussed
21 April 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to disagree with Lords amendment 2. Proposes several Government motions to disagree with multiple Lords amendments and offers alternatives in lieu of others.
Attendance
83.3%
80 of 96 votes
Aye Votes
28
29.2% of votes
No Votes
52
54.2% of votes
Abstentions
16
16.7% of votes
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
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
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
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: 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: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
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: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
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: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
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 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
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
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
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: 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
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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 NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
8
PMQs Asked
139
Ministerial Questions Asked
117
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
96
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
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+937% above average
This MP:
139
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2307% above average
This MP:
117
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+20% above average
This MP:
83.3
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Jeff Smith's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.