Jim McMahon
MP for Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton
Labour (Co-op)
3 Dec 2015 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Prime Minister's Questions
No PMQs questions found for this MP.
The Chancellor's statement to review the issue is welcome, but can this work be expedited given the cost of living crisis? Gemma, a social worker for over two decades, travels around 400 miles a month for work, which means she is paying over £1,000 a year just to do her job and care for other people.
Context
The approved mileage allowance rate has not been updated since 2011, leading to significant discrepancies with current motoring costs. Gemma, a social worker, travels 400 miles a month, incurring a substantial cost to maintain her work.
Rachel Reeves
We keep all taxes under review ahead of fiscal events, but this is one area that I will be keeping a very close interest in.
Session: HMRC Approved Mileage Rates
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What steps her Department is taking to ensure that HMRC approved mileage rates are up to date. The 45p a mile rate, set 15 years ago, is nowhere near the true cost of running a vehicle today, which was recently assessed at 67p a mile. Gemma, a social worker for over two decades, travels around 400 miles a month for work, which means she is paying over £1,000 a year just to do her job and care for other people.
Context
The current HMRC approved mileage allowance rate has not changed since 2011, which raises concerns about its relevance given the significant increase in motoring costs over the same period.
Rachel Reeves
We are looking at the issue and will consider the matter further in the usual way, as part of a future fiscal event. Through steps such as freezing fuel duty, we are taking wider action in the meantime to ensure that people pay the lowest price possible at the pump.
Session: HMRC Approved Mileage Rates
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Can I ask the Government to pay some attention to the mismatch between apprenticeship vacancies and when children are leaving school? So few vacancies are advertised in July and August; the highest number of vacancies is in February, six months after young people have left school. Surely there is a mismatch?
Context
There is a mismatch between the time when most apprenticeships are advertised and when young people leave school. Many vacancies are only available in February, six months after students have left school.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank my hon. Friend for raising that point. As somebody who was a teacher in Oldham, I know many of the institutions he is referring to, and I particularly know about the great work that is done by Oldham sixth-form college and the secondary schools in his constituency. We want to make sure that where we are spending significant sums on capital investment, which the Budget and the spending review allow us to do, it reflects the Government’s priorities around special educational needs and extra school places. We want to get that right, and we will provide an update very soon to my hon. Friend and others.
Session: Eton Star Sixth Form Oldham
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What is her planned timetable for making a decision on the proposed Eton Star sixth-form college in Oldham? Can I urge the Government to give clarity on that programme before Christmas?
Context
The previous Government announced the free schools for sixth-formers programme over two years ago. The local authority, parents, and other sixth-form providers have been waiting over a year since this Government announced a review of that programme.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
In 2017, the Government’s spending watchdog estimated that free schools would create 57,500 surplus places. This Government took the sensible, pragmatic decision to pause a number of proposed free schools due to real concerns about value for money. We recognise the need for clarity and we will provide a substantive update on this project and others in the mainstream pipeline review very soon.
Session: Eton Star Sixth Form Oldham
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I thank my hon. Friend for the work she has done to champion fair funding across local government, particularly for York. I absolutely understand the issues. The fair funding review is meant to do two things. It takes into account the need—the cost pressures driving local authorities—set against the resource, which is how much local authorities can raise in council tax at a local level. It is the Government’s role to be the equaliser to ensure that every local authority can afford decent local services, but I absolutely take into account her representations.
Context
The fair funding review is intended to address cost pressures and ensure that every local authority can afford decent services.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
Under our proposals in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill for a national scheme of delegation, it will still be local planning authorities that make recommendations and decisions. As the hon. Gentleman will know if he looks at the consultation, all we propose is a two-tier system in which a set of minor applications go to expert local planning officers. A separate tier can go to a planning committee, where the chair of planning and the chief planning officer decide that that is the case. Again, I encourage the hon. Gentleman to respond to the consultation.
Session: Topical Questions
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As the Minister outlines, co-operatives are worth £41 billion to the UK economy; moreover, they are, on average, 10% more productive than other businesses, twice as likely to survive the first five years of trading, and have higher rates of investment than other private businesses. What more can the Government do to encourage more co-operatives to thrive? Does he believe, as I do, that the creation of co-operative development agencies in every region has to be part of that?
Context
Building on the previous assessment, the question explores ways to further support co-operatives.
Bim Afolami
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his point. I note his long-held interest in the co-operative sector, and the work that he does on it. So, what are the Government doing? They are doing two things specifically. First, they recently took the further step of backing the Co-operatives, Mutuals and Friendly Societies Act 2023; they also commissioned the Law Commission to review the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 to make sure that co-operatives can do as much as possible to benefit the wider economy.
Session: Co-operative Sector
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What assessment he has made of the contribution of the co-operative sector to the economy?
Context
The question addresses the economic impact of co-operatives in the UK.
Bim Afolami
The Government acknowledge the vital contribution that co-operatives make to the economy. The “Co-operative and Mutual Economy 2023” report found that co-operatives generated a combined annual turnover of £41 billion, a 3.7% increase from 2022 levels.
Session: Co-operative Sector
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Local councils are on the brink due to policies from Downing Street, including slashed funding, delayed fair funding review, postponed business rate reset. Councils' reserves are depleted, assets sold, accounts unsubmitted, with many lining up for emergency support. Is it not time to end sticking-plaster politics and have a long-term plan for all communities?
Context
The MP criticised national funding cuts and delays affecting every local authority in the country.
Jacob Young
I am sorry that the hon. Gentleman failed to mention the £20 million investment in Oldham over 10 years since 2019, and we have invested £15 billion of levelling-up funding across the country.
Session: Levelling-up Fund
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When it comes to the funding of schools, should not the Government just follow the money? Amber Infrastructure, which owns Newman College in Chadderton, has paid out £80 million of shareholder dividends during the time for which it has owned that PFI school. The heating system does not work, the roof is leaking—which is affecting 30 classrooms— and now two temporary classrooms must be built to accommodate the pupils. Will the Government intervene and point out to the provider that if the money is there to be taken in dividends, it is there to fix a roof as well?
Context
The question arises from the situation at Newman College in Chadderton where £80 million in dividends have been paid out by Amber Infrastructure during its ownership period, while issues such as a non-functional heating system and roof leakage persist.
Damian Hinds
I would be happy to follow up the matter of the private finance initiative contract at that college, and perhaps have some discussions with my right hon. Friend the Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education.
Session: f40 Local Authorities Funding
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How many councils have applied for exceptional financial support, and will pressures in adult social care, children's services and homelessness be fully met in the financial settlement? Councils are being pushed to financial brink with significant funding gaps.
Context
Councils face an immediate £2.6 billion funding gap due to rising costs and the impact of the Conservative government's policies.
Simon Hoare
It is not policy for us to comment individually on councils that are seeking advice from or engagement with officials, but I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his question, because it gives me the opportunity to put on record that my Department and I stand ready to engage with all those councils who wish to discuss their financial circumstances.
Session: Council Budget Deficits
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Jim McMahon highlights that Oldham supports persecuted individuals but faces a housing crisis due to 145 asylum seekers staying in hotel accommodation and 910 overall. He asks whether it is time for the Government to review its dispersal policy to ensure every part of England plays a fair share, pointing out Braintree's low numbers compared to Oldham's high numbers.
Context
The question addresses the imbalance in dispersing asylum seekers across different parts of England, with Oldham being disproportionately affected.
Tom Pursglove
Tom Pursglove reassures Jim McMahon that he and his officials are considering equitability in the approach to dispersal. However, he also notes that a key part of the response is reducing flows into the system.
Session: Asylum Seekers Hotels
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In 2018, Tory-led Northamptonshire County Council issued a section 114 notice. Since then, eight other councils did exactly the same. In September, Moody's warned that more local authorities will 'fail over the near term.' By the Government's own assessment, how many more councils are at risk between now and budgets being set next year?
Context
Tory-led Northamptonshire County Council issued a section 114 notice due to poor management. Further councils from across the political spectrum have followed suit. Moody's warned that more local authorities will fail over the near term.
Simon Hoare
Nobody doubts that section 114 is a serious issue. We work with councils to see what we can do to help and ensure they continue to deliver for their voters.
Session: Council Funding
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Why will the Government not meet Labour's ambition of making 1 million people owners of UK-produced renewable energy?
Context
The Labour party aims to create 1 million owners of UK-produced renewable energy with a target of 8 GW.
Claire Coutinho
I think the hon. Gentleman's argument is completely wrong-headed. Let us look at what the UK Government have done since 2010. We now have the first, second, third, fourth and fifth largest offshore wind farms anywhere in the world.
Session: Climate Change Committee Progress Report
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Surely the best way to stop violence against shop workers is to make it a stand-alone offence. Will the government support this proposal?
Context
The Co-op Group reported 300,000 incidents of violence in stores.
Alex Chalk
Assaults are already covered under various sections of the law, and courts can treat assaults on shop workers as an aggravating factor. We will keep these matters under review.
Session: Topical Questions
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That is not new: in Denmark, 52% of wind energy is community owned, and in Germany half of all onshore wind is community owned. Will the Government do far more to join that ambition of community-owned energy here in Britain?
Context
The Labour party and the Co-operative party have set out a shared ambition for more community-owned energy. The MP references Denmark and Germany as examples of community-owned wind energy.
Gareth Davies
We have ambitious plans for energy generation and our energy security. We want to bring communities with us, and we look at all options as we do so.
Session: Energy Sector
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People know that Thames Water is not an isolated case: five companies are rated as being of concern by the Government's own financial regulator. Will she act to protect the national interest based on these six key tests?
Context
Five companies are rated as being of concern by Ofwat. The MP has written a letter setting out six key tests to protect bill payers, workers and taxpayers from boardroom failures.
Therese Coffey
I will respond to his letter before recess. Speculation around the water industry does not help, but Ofwat has acted and new equity has come into many companies.
Session: Topical Questions
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Since Tory privatisation, water companies have racked up debts of over £60 billion. Is this an isolated case or does the Secretary of State believe that five companies rated as being of concern by Ofwat represent a broader issue?
Context
Water companies have racked up debts of over £60 billion since Tory privatisation. Every day, 800 sewage dumps occur and over 3 billion litres of water are lost to leaks.
Therese Coffey
The Government have full confidence in the financial resilience of the water sector. However, the gearing for Thames Water increased significantly under Labour's government.
Session: Topical Questions
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Three weeks ago, Tory MPs voted down a Labour Bill to finally end the sewage scandal and make polluters pay. Last week, water companies apologised for their part in the scandal. Given her oversight as Minister leading to increased dumping, will she now apologise? Will she follow Labour's lead and ensure dividends cover costs of ending the scandal?
Context
The MP criticises the Government's voting down of Labour's Bill that aimed to end sewage dumping by making polluters pay. He highlights water companies' apology for their role in the scandal.
Therese Coffey
The Government did not vote down a Bill but rather the control of the Order Paper. It was pointed out that the Labour plan inadequately addressed existing plans, and the hon. Gentleman overlooked Wales' higher frequency of sewage overflow usage under Welsh Labour.
Session: Bathing Waters
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A year on from my request from this Dispatch Box for an urgent meeting on food security, the Government's Farm to Fork summit was described by attendees as “no more than a PR stunt” that will do nothing to help the cost of living crisis. The Secretary of State also knows that fishing is a key pillar of our food security, but it is under grave threat on Teesside. Given that crustacean die-offs continue to cripple generations of fishers, will she join me in demanding that the inevitable “truth on Teesside” public inquiry includes this environmental and economic disaster in its terms of reference?
Context
A year ago, the MP requested an urgent meeting on food security. The Government's Farm to Fork summit was described as a PR stunt that failed to address the cost of living crisis.
Therese Coffey (Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
Yet again, the shadow Secretary of State does not seem to trust civil servants. Our chief scientific adviser did a thorough job of going through what has happened on Teesside and what is available. Organisations such as the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science have also looked at recent incidents, and we will continue to use our scientists to investigate, as appropriate.
Session: Topical Questions
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I sat with fishers a few weeks ago, alongside my hon. Friends the Members for Stockton North (Alex Cunningham) and for Middlesbrough (Andy McDonald), to hear about the impact that the Teesside crustacean die-off has had on the livelihoods of local fishers. Let me tell the Secretary of State what they said: “We're finished. There's nothing left to catch.” “No-one listens. We're just fishermen!” “We're not asking for a handout. We're asking for a roadmap to get back on track.” “Levelling up? They've levelled Teesside down”. Working people—the grafters of this country and the foundation of our food security—are being ignored.
Context
Local fishermen have expressed frustration over the lack of action regarding the crustacean die-off in Teesside.
Therese Coffey
I am really disappointed by that. The shadow Secretary of State has basically impugned the integrity of the chief scientific adviser of DEFRA.
Session: Teesside Sea Life
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What plans will be put in place to ensure affordable food supplies are maintained and what steps will reduce food inflation? The MP highlights the imminent prospect of rationing due to ongoing price pressures.
Context
Food prices are rising significantly, with the consumer price index up by 9.2% year-on-year, and food inflation reaching a 1970s high of 16.9%. Essential commodities like butter, milk, pasta, eggs, and cooking oil have become unaffordable.
Mark Spencer
The Chancellor has implemented a package supporting families with energy and food cost rises, including cash for local authorities. The emphasis is on market supply rather than specific policy interventions to reduce inflation or ensure affordability.
Session: Food Costs
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Oh my God. I have confidence in the Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the hon. Member for Taunton Deane (Rebecca Pow), who is doing a good job in very difficult circumstances to try to make progress, but I do not agree with the Environment Secretary passing the buck to a junior Minister, which is not on. Ultimately, those at the top take responsibility. It is high time the Secretary of State did just that.
I am proud of the Labour Government's record. We had the cleanest water and the cleanest air since the industrial revolution. That is the Labour record, and it is a scandal that it was not built on further. The abuse of water does not stop there. Let us hear from the North East Fishing Collective, which had the door slammed on it on the scandal of crustacean die-offs on Teesside. It is concerned that livelihoods, jobs and generational pride have been impacted by the Government's indifference:
“The entire fishing fleet in Hartlepool is finished. There's no business left. They failed us when we begged them to listen, so now we will have to fight”.
I ask the Secretary of State, for the second time, to rate her Government's performance on the water scandal that is polluting our country.
I am proud of the Labour Government's record. We had the cleanest water and the cleanest air since the industrial revolution. That is the Labour record, and it is a scandal that it was not built on further. The abuse of water does not stop there. Let us hear from the North East Fishing Collective, which had the door slammed on it on the scandal of crustacean die-offs on Teesside. It is concerned that livelihoods, jobs and generational pride have been impacted by the Government's indifference:
“The entire fishing fleet in Hartlepool is finished. There's no business left. They failed us when we begged them to listen, so now we will have to fight”.
I ask the Secretary of State, for the second time, to rate her Government's performance on the water scandal that is polluting our country.
Context
The fishing community in Hartlepool is concerned about the impact of crustacean die-offs on their livelihoods.
Therese Coffey
The hon. Gentleman should withdraw his earlier comments, because he has, perhaps unintentionally, misled the House. I hope he has the grace to withdraw.
Leading scientific advisers reviewed the crustacean die-offs, and it was published to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee and the House. We understand that a novel pathogen is the most likely explanation for what happened in the north-east. I continue to work with the Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my hon. Friend the Member for Taunton Deane, and I take this matter very seriously, but I am conscious that, unlike the Labour Government who in their responses to the European Commission denied that there was a problem and were successfully taken to court, this Government have continued to act and will continue to do so.
Leading scientific advisers reviewed the crustacean die-offs, and it was published to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee and the House. We understand that a novel pathogen is the most likely explanation for what happened in the north-east. I continue to work with the Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my hon. Friend the Member for Taunton Deane, and I take this matter very seriously, but I am conscious that, unlike the Labour Government who in their responses to the European Commission denied that there was a problem and were successfully taken to court, this Government have continued to act and will continue to do so.
Session: Sewage Discharges East Devon
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The Environment Secretary first said that it was not a priority to meet water bosses, and then she said that it was and that she really did care—or words to that effect. She then said that she would come forward with a plan and big fines, but there were no plans and no fines. She then said that there would be a plan, but that the water companies will do it, not the Government, and that there might be fines, but only if the water companies agree to that. We now discover that Ofwat has watered down the rules intended to hold water companies to account, actively removing any reference to the consideration of local communities and local economies. On a scale of one to 10, how does the Secretary of State rate her Government's record on ending the Tory sewage scandal?
Context
There is ongoing criticism of the government's handling of sewage discharges.
Therese Coffey
I have great confidence in the Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my hon. Friend the Member for Taunton Deane (Rebecca Pow), who continues to meet water companies, as do I. If the hon. Gentleman goes back and looks at the record of the Labour Government, he will see that they failed to deal with the urban waste water initiatives. The European Commission contacted them, took action against them, and took the Labour Government to court for failing to deal with sewage. That is what happened; that is the real history. When the Conservatives and the coalition Government came into power, we started working on leaks and making strategic policy statements, and we started the monitoring. None of that happened under a Labour Government. The hon. Gentleman can spew out as much rubbish as he wants, but the reality is that the Labour Government did nothing about it. This Conservative Government are fixing it, making it harder, and that is what we will continue to do.
Session: Sewage Discharges East Devon
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Has the Government convened a cross-departmental group to address food security concerns, including financial support for farmers, energy-intensive producers, and addressing labour shortages? The MP notes an upcoming urgent question on this topic.
Context
Food security is a critical issue in the UK with pressures affecting supply chains and production.
Mark Spencer
There are Cabinet Office committees tackling these challenges, regular meetings with retailers, and roundtables convened with supermarkets. The situation involves market dynamics and disruptions from Morocco and Spain.
Session: Food Costs
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Is it not true that we have a Secretary of State overseeing a sewage scandal who did not believe meeting water bosses was a priority; a Secretary of State responsible for food security in a cost of living crisis who does not think it is the Government's job to make sure people have access to food; and a Secretary of State who has a lead role in climate change who, frankly, is clocking up more air miles than Father Christmas? Even when she is here, she is missing in action. Can she prove that she is finally getting a grip of this?
Context
The question is prompted by ongoing issues with sewage discharge and the cost of living crisis affecting food security. The MP criticises the Secretary of State for perceived inaction on these critical issues.
Therese Coffey
Let us just go back and remind ourselves that there was no monitoring of sewage under the Labour Government; that was introduced under a Conservative Government. We have gone to a situation where we are recording more, using the price review to open up investment, challenging through Ofwat to get storm overflows discharge reduction plan, so that by the end of this year we will actually have 100% monitoring right across the country. Conservatives do not shy away from problems; we open them up, put a spotlight on them, take action and get stuff done.
Session: Food Security
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Whether she has made an assessment of the potential effect of a reduction in the Environment Agency's budget on levels of sewage discharge.
Context
The MP questioned the potential impact of reducing the Environment Agency's budget on sewage discharge levels, citing concerns about pollution in her constituency.
Rebecca Pow
The volume of sewage discharged by water companies is absolutely unacceptable. Improving water quality is a high priority for the Government, which is why we have launched an ambitious plan to reduce sewage discharges from storm sewage overflows in water companies, the biggest in history. It is also why we have increased our monitoring from 5% in 2016 right up to 19% now. Interestingly, one might want to note that under the Labour party there was no monitoring at all, and that the Environment Agency has received £2.2 million each year for the last three years specifically for water company enforcement to ensure that robust action is taken against illegal breaches.
Session: Environment Agency Budget Sewage Discharge
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Does she agree that her Department's failure to publish the food security report and distribute FareShare grants shows a lack of understanding of food security? Can she tell the House the price of a loaf of bread and a pint of milk in her local supermarket?
Context
The Environment Secretary stated that it is not the Government's role to feed people. Food inflation has reached a 40-year high, leading to food poverty for millions.
Therese Coffey
The prices are £1.25 for a loaf of bread from Tesco and 95p for a pint of milk. The last food security report was published in December 2021, showing resilience in the food supply chain.
Session: Food Security
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Water companies dumped sewage on 90 beaches over the summer, impacting local businesses in coastal hotspots that are already struggling financially. The Secretary of State is satisfied with a phone call to water bosses but does he not realise they are exploiting this situation? Without tougher penalties including prison sentences, their behaviour will not change.
Context
Over the summer, water companies were allowed to dump sewage on 90 beaches. This affected local businesses in coastal areas which are crucial for visitor economies. Water bosses have been accused of not taking regulatory bodies seriously and profiting from the situation.
Ranil Jayawardena
The hon. Gentleman was expected to be constructive but instead he is playing politics. The water companies will report back in two weeks and legislation has been passed allowing for unlimited fines through a criminal process.
Session: Sewage Discharge
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What plans are in place to address the challenges faced by businesses due to rising energy and import costs and how will these impact food security?
Context
Rocketing energy costs have pushed inflation to a 40-year high, affecting households and food producers.
Mark Spencer
We have already committed to £37 billion of support for consumers, and if the hon. Gentleman waits, he will be able to listen to the Prime Minister at the Dispatch Box later today setting out her plans to support those businesses and people across the country.
Session: Cost Increases Food Producers and Consumers
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Is it not true that the Government's record of low wages, low growth, record tax rises and out-of-control inflation is keeping people skint and hungry, and that the Government just do not have a plan to address this?
Context
The Government's own food security report relies on the existence of food banks to keep the UK fed. However, food banks are struggling with rising demand.
Victoria Prentis
We very much have a plan to continue to help people with cost of living pressures. We work closely with the Trussell Trust and others, having an excellent relationship after the pandemic. It is important that we dial down the political tone.
Session: Food Security
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What assessment have the Government made of the number of people who will be in food poverty by Christmas this year? Can it be published and put in the House of Commons Library?
Context
Inflation reached a new 40-year high at 9.1%, with 7.3 million people living in food poverty including 2.6 million children.
Victoria Prentis
We continue to monitor closely both the cost of food and its effect on household budgets. The Chancellor has added £15 billion to his total support package, making it £37 billion in total. Food costs are around 14% for struggling families.
Session: Food Security
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Given the impact covid has had on mental health and wellbeing, for many, access to the outdoors was a vital escape, but the Secretary of State will know that access is not equal. Research by Wildlife and Countryside Link highlights that the poorest communities are twice as likely to live in a neighbourhood without access to nature. What are the Government doing to ensure that every neighbourhood in every corner of England finally has access to a green and pleasant land?
Context
Research highlights that poorer communities are twice as likely to live without access to natural spaces.
George Eustice
We have set out some detailed proposals on this, both in our response to the Glover review, but also under the Environment Act 2021. Local authorities will be required to have local nature recovery strategies in future, and that will include commitments around public access in particular locations. We have also opened a new farming and protected landscape scheme, which is all about supporting public access to the countryside.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State knows that the cost of food will get much higher as farmers and producers grapple with increased costs and Government-inflicted labour shortages. As the Minister responsible for food security, will he urgently convene a cross-Government summit with the food industry, devolved and local government and charities to finally get ahead of the crisis—or are the Government once again just out for themselves, out of touch, and completely out of ideas?
Context
Food costs will increase further due to labour shortages. The cost of food is rising.
George Eustice
I have had many meetings with industry about the current situation. The next meeting of the UK Agricultural Partnership will focus specifically on food security.
Session: Household Budgets Food Prices
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Britain is besieged by a cost of living crisis. Tax hikes and rocketing bills are making life harder for working people. We know that 4.7 million adults and 2.5 million children live in food poverty, 2.1 million food parcels were issued last year, and 1 million people will not eat at all today. Looking back on his nine years in the Department, what would the Secretary of State have done differently to improve rather than weaken the food security here in the UK?
Context
Britain is facing a cost of living crisis with millions in food poverty. Food prices are rising.
George Eustice
Our food security has remained stable at around 75% for the past 22 years. Since leaving the EU, more grants and investment have been made available to farms, and measures introduced to improve supply chain transparency.
Session: Household Budgets Food Prices
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With many food banks struggling, what specific measures will the Government take to deliver food justice and address this crisis?
Context
Food banks have raised concerns about turning away families due to the cost of living crisis. Some report decreased donations but increased demand.
George Eustice
The household support fund worth £500 million is available to help with food issues. We also have schemes to assist with energy costs.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State, it has been two weeks since I submitted my parliamentary question. With Russia-Ukraine conflict affecting food security, what is your plan to address this?
Context
Russia and Ukraine are significant in wheat exports and fertiliser supply. The UK was already facing a supply chain crisis before the war.
George Eustice
A food strategy is being worked on that addresses all issues across the supply chain and some challenges in the industry.
Session: Topical Questions
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What is being done to reduce sewage discharges given that investment is down, water companies are heavily in debt, private investment has not followed, and the Environment Agency's funding has been cut?
Context
The MP raises concerns about sewage discharges in the River Wye due to investment reduction, water company debt, and a decrease in Environment Agency grants. He also criticizes the Prime Minister's response.
George Eustice (Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
The Environment Act 2021 legally obliges reductions in storm overflows. Spending on catchment sensitive farming has doubled, and the number of inspectors increased by 50%.
Session: Topical Questions
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The food industry faces numerous challenges such as inflation, CO2 shortage, feed price increases, and labour shortages which are pushing up costs and prices for consumers. Can the Secretary of State outline what plans there are to tackle these issues?
Context
The MP is concerned about the food industry's struggle with inflation, CO2 crisis, fuel costs, labour shortages, and other issues. He also notes that a roundtable discussion was convened.
George Eustice (Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
The food industry employs millions of people and brings prosperity. We are managing cost pressures caused by gas prices through collaboration with industry.
Session: Topical Questions
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This situation constituted a national emergency but no Cobra meeting was held; the Prime Minister was absent and the Secretary of State failed to take charge. With Ofgem planning a narrow review, will the Secretary of State now acknowledge his role's inadequacy by apologising for not visiting affected communities and commit to a comprehensive internal review?
Context
Post-Storm Arwen, there was a delay in declaring it a major incident and military intervention. The community faced severe hardships for over a week with minimal support.
George Eustice
My colleague, the Minister for Farming, Fisheries and Food, visited and met with farmers. I have been informed about issues such as fencing damage by storms. My colleagues in BEIS are addressing power disruption concerns diligently.
Session: Topical Questions
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Thank you Mr Speaker. The disruption from Storm Arwen was severe; more than 20,000 homes were left powerless for over a week with minimal on-the-ground support despite the severity. This required immediate national action but it took a full week to declare as such and another for military intervention. Given my region's rural nature and your responsibility, can you confirm when you visited these communities post-Storm Arwen and what you learned?
Context
Storm Arwen caused significant devastation in the north of England, leaving over 20,000 homes without power for a week. Despite the severity, it took a full week to declare it a major incident and another week before military support was deployed.
George Eustice
My colleague, the Minister for Farming, Fisheries and Food, visited the impacted areas last week. She met with farmers to discuss their challenges such as power disruptions and damage to fencing.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Co-operative Sector: Government Support
21 October 2025
Responding: Mark Ferguson
Main Concerns
['The roots of the co-operative movement run deep back to 1844 with the Rochdale pioneers. Today there are 7,400 co-operatives in Britain, with 16.6 million members and 240,000 employees working hard in their communities. Despite this thriving sector, the UK now lags behind other countries.']
Specific Asks
['The Government must create an environment that enables co-operatives to thrive by making them mainstream choices for new businesses and not just a sideline.']
5G Masts: Greater Manchester
13 March 2024
Responding: Julia Lopez
Main Concerns
['The installation of 5G masts in residential areas by companies like IX Wireless is causing significant concern among local communities. The proposed installations are often large and intrusive, changing the character of neighbourhoods and raising issues related to visual amenity, public health, and community trust. Residents fear the lack of consultation and regulatory oversight leaves them voiceless when it comes to their immediate environment.']
Specific Asks
["I urge the Government to revisit planning policy and permitted development rights for telecommunications infrastructure. The current system removes local authorities' ability to consult with residents adequately before installations, leading to increased community division and mistrust. I also call for a review of existing regulations to ensure that operators are required to share network infrastructure and consider alternatives such as upgrading 4G masts instead of installing new 5G ones."]
Fiscal Devolution in England
10 September 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
England is an international outlier in central decision-making, linked to high regional inequality. The Government aims to devolve powers to local leaders, with the English Devolution and Community Em...
Registration of Stillbirths (England and Wales)
15 July 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Jim McMahon proposed a Bill to permit the remote registration of stillbirths, aiming to provide an option for bereaved parents to register remotely by telephone or secure video appointment without imp...
Immigration and Asylum Bill
13 July 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker has selected the reasoned amendment in the name of the Leader of the Opposition, but no specific opening argument is provided in this excerpt.
Rochdale Grooming Gang: Offender Deportation
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Prisoner Early Release
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Accommodation
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Farming Road Map and Profitability Review
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
The Bill Name (not specified in the provided text) - Schedule 1 - Enforcement and Appeals
16 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. The speaker is moving for the second reading of Schedule 1 which focuses on enforcement measures and appeals processes in the bill.
Social Media Ban for Under-16s
15 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...
Attendance
72.4%
71 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
23
23.5% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
27
27.6% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
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
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
0
PMQs Asked
62
Ministerial Questions Asked
97
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
32
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
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
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+363% above average
This MP:
62
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1896% above average
This MP:
97
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+238% above average
This MP:
32
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+5% above average
This MP:
72.4
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 Jim McMahon's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.