Jim Shannon
MP for Strangford
DUP
6 May 2010 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
A headline stated that Northern Ireland could be forced to follow EU rules on Covid tests due to the protocol. The Chancellor has said Northern Ireland cannot benefit from VAT scrap on energy efficiency measures because of the protocol, posing a threat to COVID test availability in NI. What are the financial and non-financial costs of the protocol?
Context
Headline claims that Northern Ireland could be forced to follow EU rules on covid tests; financial and non-financial costs of the protocol.
Boris Johnson
I thank the hon. Gentleman very much. The protocol has an economic cost, turning into a political problem and imbalance in sentiment about it. We need to rectify this balance for the sake of the Good Friday agreement.
Assessment
Did not provide concrete actions on restoring UK's place for Northern Ireland
Session: PMQs
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When it comes to lobbying, Northern Ireland has a peculiar circumstance where one party can be involved in politics in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Can the Minister assure that the rules will apply equally in Northern Ireland, including to parties that traverse the border?
Context
Northern Ireland has unique circumstances with political parties involved in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, affecting lobbying accountability.
Mark Ferguson
We will consider the hon. Member for Strangford's question in our response to the EIC.
Session: Lobbying Ethics and Integrity Commission Report 2026-09-10
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Will the Minister work in partnership with the National Trust on this issue right across the UK, mentioning Castle Ward's cultural and creative activities?
Context
Castle Ward, a local National Trust site in the constituency, puts on cultural and creative activities but faces transport connectivity challenges.
Ian Murray
Absolutely, and I commend the hon. Gentleman for the work done in his constituency, including at Castle Ward. Encouraging everyone to go and visit would be the best thing for me to do as the Minister. Transport connectivity for those attending cultural and music events and historic and heritage places came up at the Select Committee sitting I attended this week, so we are working hard to resolve these issues.
Session: Access to Culture 2026-09-03
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The Secretary of State is right to recognise the reduction of child poverty in Wales, but of course the Government here took the decision to reduce child poverty not just in Wales but in Scotland, England and Northern Ireland as well. Does he agree that when it comes to recognising the good work the Government have done in reducing child poverty, the whole House should come together and say thank you to the Labour party for doing that, taking 60,000 families out of poverty in Northern Ireland?
Context
The Secretary of State acknowledges the reduction of child poverty but the MP highlights the Labour party's work in reducing child poverty not just in Wales but also in Scotland, England, and Northern Ireland. The MP seeks recognition of Labour's contribution in reducing child poverty.
Stephen Kinnock
I absolutely agree with the sentiment of the hon. Member's question. Let us look at what the Welsh Labour Government delivered: breakfast clubs offering free, healthy breakfasts for children in primary schools; baby bundles; more than 50 million meals served since the introduction of universal primary free school meals; an expanded childcare offer; free prescriptions; and hospital parking to help with family finances. That is the difference a Labour Government make.
Session: Child Poverty 2026-09-02
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I thank the Minister for her answer. There are 67 wars across the world—countries in conflict with other countries. What can she do to ensure that sworn enemies come together to tackle climate change, which is the real enemy of every country in this world?
Context
Jim Shannon noted the existence of 67 wars across the world and asked what the Minister could do to ensure that sworn enemies come together to tackle climate change, which he described as the common enemy of every country.
Kirsty McNeill
I very much agree with the hon. Gentleman: climate change is a common enemy, and we have to face it across this House, across this country and across the world. We are committed to working with everybody who is taking climate action seriously.
Session: Climate Change International Partners 2026-09-01
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Despite urging for a change in approach, the ZEV mandate remains. Last year's target was met by manufacturers buying compliance credits from Tesla and BYD, not consumer demand. Are yearly increases to 80% of zero emission vehicles by 2030 or 100% by 2035 achievable without relying on foreign compliance credits?
Context
The MP is concerned about the ZEV mandate's sustainability, especially regarding compliance credits from foreign companies.
Heidi Alexander
I look at data from both SMMT and DfT about vehicle sales. In June, nearly 30% were electric—a significant increase on last year. We are rolling out new charging infrastructure at a rate of one every 30 minutes. The future is electric, but we will keep the ZEV mandate under review.
Session: Transport Decarbonisation 2026-07-16
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What progress has her Department made in ensuring that incidental funding is followed up? When will the national guidance be issued on this?
Context
The lung cancer screening programme identifies clinically significant incidental findings. The national guidance for follow-up of these findings needs to be issued.
Sharon Hodgson
The NHS lung cancer screening programme has clear national protocols and quality assurance arrangements to ensure that clinically significant incidental findings are reported, followed up and acted on appropriately to help ensure that patients receive timely assessment and treatment through established NHS pathways.
Session: Lung Cancer Screening Programme 2026-07-14
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Due to restricted skilled worker visas, family-owned trawlers face a perfect storm alongside fuel costs and new Isle of Man transit barriers. There is a proposal for bespoke seasonal visas that could ensure the historic fleet can fish around Northern Ireland's coast. Will the Minister support it to secure the sector's future?
Context
The MP is concerned about the severe financial impact of visa restrictions, fuel costs, and Isle of Man transit barriers on family-owned trawlers in Portavogie, Ardglass, and Kilkeel.
Matthew Patrick
We totally support our fishing sector. If the Immigration Minister is speaking with the hon. Gentleman and my hon. Friend, I will try to be part of those meetings.
Session: Seasonal Scampi Fishers 2026-07-08
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Will the Minister consider further steps to reduce these burdens and ensure smooth trade into Northern Ireland given potential negative economic consequences?
Context
The MP notes increased costs, administrative burdens, disruptions to supply chains and delays caused by the Windsor framework affecting businesses trading into Northern Ireland.
Chris Bryant
We are always looking at reducing burdens for businesses trading into Northern Ireland, considering all our international relationships including the EU and trans-Pacific partnership. We aim to ensure supply chain resilience.
Session: Supply Chain Security 2026-07-02
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Does the Minister think that it is time to set a quota for companies? Some companies already set aside places for ladies, but a quota could be a stronger measure. This would encourage many companies to go the extra mile.
Context
The question builds on the previous discussion about encouraging more women to enter tech roles and asks if setting a quota might persuade companies to take further action.
Liz Kendall
I think showing results from women's contributions is most effective. Women founders get only 2p in every £1 of venture capital funding but present 35% higher returns on average. Companies should aim for better science and tech by getting more women involved.
Session: Women in Tech Taskforce 2026-07-01
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What steps is her Department taking to ensure that the insights and drafting expertise in the “Modernising Wills Law” report are taken on board by the Northern Ireland Executive, to ensure families in Northern Ireland can benefit from updated legislation against predatory marriage?
Context
The question arises in the context of Fabian Hamilton's work on modernising wills law and ensuring that Northern Ireland can benefit from similar protections.
Sarah Sackman
As we consider the Law Commission's recommendations, we will of course consider how they might lead to law changes and law reform across the United Kingdom. However, where matters are devolved, we respect that as well.
Session: Modernising Wills Law Commission Report 2026-06-30
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I thank the Minister very much for his answers, as always. In Northern Ireland, care levers are really untold heroes in the work that they do. Many of us, in all our communities, understand the delivery of care that is provided. In relation to young people, has the Minister had an opportunity to talk to the relevant Minister in Northern Ireland to ensure that we can move forward with the speed that he seems to indicate? I understand that there are 19,000 young people between the ages of 16 and 24 in Northern Ireland without any employment.
Context
Discussion about the challenges faced by young people in Northern Ireland, particularly care leavers without employment.
Stephen Timms
I would be delighted to have that conversation. I speak regularly to the Minister in Northern Ireland about matters in my portfolio, and I would be happy to cover this matter in our next conversation.
Session: Universal Credit Care Leavers 2026-06-29
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In Northern Ireland, a 2024 study found that only around one fifth of direct public procurement spend across the wider public sector is awarded to small businesses. Given the reliance on smaller businesses in Northern Ireland, what steps will the Minister take with Cabinet colleagues to improve their access to public procurement?
Context
The MP is concerned about the low percentage of direct public procurement spend awarded to small businesses in Northern Ireland and seeks clarity on government plans.
Chris Ward
We are taking a number of steps to improve SME access to Government procurement, and I outlined those earlier. If it is okay with the hon. Gentleman, I will write to him about the specific measures we are taking in Northern Ireland.
Session: Topical Questions
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Could the Minister indicate that there will be fair play for civil servants who have shown many years of commitment, that they will not have to move, and that there will be provision made for them?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact on civil servants who have settled in their communities and may face relocation.
Anna Turley
We must get the balance right. Many fantastic civil servants are embedded in their communities delivering for them, but I am sure that he would support the importance of the opportunity that civil service roles offer to stimulate growth in regions across our nations.
Session: Civil Service Jobs Relocation
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What protection has the Minister put in place for those who actively and honestly seek help and prayerful support, and who are seeking guidance in churches and through Christian and faith-based groups? It is always important that people have an opportunity to seek that guidance. I know the Minister will be committed to that, and I would be very pleased to hear her answer.
Context
The Minister needs to clarify protection measures for individuals seeking support through churches and Christian and faith-based groups, following a discussion on banning conversion practices.
Olivia Bailey
Let me be very clear that what we are talking about is criminalising abuse that should happen to nobody, anywhere, in any situation or setting. I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question, and I look forward to discussing this matter further with him when we have published our draft Bill.
Session: Conversion Practices Ban
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RNIB contacted me regarding an issue where individuals with blue badges are not allowed to drive into certain Northern Ireland polling stations. This hinders accessibility for those with disabilities. Could the commission consider allowing blue badge holders to drive directly into polling stations?
Context
The RNIB has raised concerns about access issues in Northern Ireland, specifically that some polling stations require individuals with blue badges to park outside and walk in.
Jeremy Wright
I will make sure the commission hears what you have said. Judgments on these things often rest with returning officers, but access is important. The commission will consider this point.
Session: Polling Stations Blind and Visually Impaired Voters
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I am very fortunate that I have exceptional talent in my constituency, and for those who wish to take their talents across Europe and other parts of the world, the opportunity is there. The Minister was positive in his answer to the hon. Member for Manchester Withington (Jeff Smith). Will the same enthusiasm, energy and commitment be shown to our Minister in Northern Ireland to ensure that he does the same for my constituents in Strangford?
Context
The MP expressed that Strangford has exceptional talent and wishes to take their talents across Europe. The Minister was positive about supporting Manchester Withington's constituents.
Ian Murray
As well as sending artists across the European Union, Strangford sends the very best to this Chamber. There is a firm commitment on the EU side to take this forward. We are determined to ensure that there can be as much ease as possible for UK touring artists in Europe.
Session: UK Artists Touring in Europe
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The increase in spending for Wales should encourage us all, as it does across this great United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Does the right hon. Lady agree that the extra money for defence spending underlines the importance of being a member of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland? Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland all have the advantages of the Union. Does she also agree that our friends, the Plaid Cymru MPs in front of me—and they are my friends—should recognise that being part of the United Kingdom brings benefits?
Context
There is a debate about the Union's benefits for constituent nations.
Jo Stevens
I could not agree more. As I said earlier, the increase in defence spending creates not only a defence dividend but a Union dividend, too. That is why every nation and every Government in the United Kingdom should stand together and play their part in our national security.
Session: Defence Spending
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I welcome the measures introduced in England and Wales through the 2024 Act to improve transparency of service charges. However, leaseholders in Northern Ireland lack similar protections. Will he liaise with his colleagues in Northern Ireland to support the introduction of similar protections?
Context
Leaseholders in Northern Ireland have limited control over service charges and means of challenging them, unlike in England and Wales.
Matthew Pennycook
The hon. Gentleman is charming, but all I can say is that I am happy to help our counterparts in Northern Ireland learn from the good work this Government are doing on leasehold reform.
Session: Leasehold Reform
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A designated fund previously addressed coastal erosion issues. The A20 faces severe winter and spring erosion. Will the Minister consider setting a designated fund for this issue across the UK?
Context
The previous Government set aside funds for coastal erosion, affecting the A20 in the constituency.
Keir Mather
While I think this is mainly an issue for DEFRA, the hon. Gentleman is right that coastal erosion affects transport infrastructure including ports. The forthcoming national policy statement for ports will address these issues.
Session: Topical Questions
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After discussing UV index alerts with the hon. Member for Neath and Swansea East, will the Minister convey his thoughts to the relevant Minister in Northern Ireland to ensure similar actions?
Context
Skin cancer figures are rising in Northern Ireland, and the Minister has been asked to meet with Carolyn Harris to discuss UV safety recommendations.
Keir Mather
The hon. Member is right that skin cancer affects people across the United Kingdom and we need to work together as one United Kingdom to deal with it. I will certainly reflect what I learn from my meeting with my hon. Friend through to colleagues in both the Department of Health and Social Care and the devolved Administrations, including in Northern Ireland.
Session: Transport Hubs UV Index Alerts
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Should we have similar rules in Northern Ireland for such vile killings?
Context
In Northern Ireland, there have been two horrific murders of women and their unborn children in the past few weeks.
Shabana Mahmood
Criminal law applies across the UK, and the Government track matters closely. The ministerial team will discuss these issues with their Northern Ireland counterparts.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Strategy Implementation
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I thank the Solicitor General for that reply. In recent times in Northern Ireland we have successfully concluded two corporate manslaughter cases in a positive fashion; there were guilty verdicts in both cases. If it is the intention, as I think it may be, for the Solicitor General to look at making changes to corporate manslaughter cases, will she share the detail with the Northern Ireland Assembly and the relevant Minister?
Context
The question comes from the successful conclusion of two corporate manslaughter cases in Northern Ireland and seeks information on any intention to make changes based on these cases.
Ellie Reeves
It is good to hear about those successful cases in Northern Ireland. There may be lessons to be learned from those, so I am happy to look into the detail and work with the hon. Gentleman.
Session: Corporate Manslaughter Prosecution
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May I thank the Minister for her commitment and for her response to the hon. Member for Rugby (John Slinger)? It is good to have a policy that seems to be working and, here on the United Kingdom mainland, it is very obvious that it is. I know the Minister is off to visit Northern Ireland; we have similar problems in Northern Ireland, but there does not seem to be the same drive or the same action taken. Will she involve herself with the Minister in Northern Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, to ensure that he is proactive as well?
Context
The question follows the introduction of new powers for councils to seize vehicles involved in fly-tipping and guidance on covert surveillance, CCTV, and drones. Jim Shannon highlights that similar problems exist in Northern Ireland but there seems to be less action taken.
Mary Creagh
I am always happy to visit Northern Ireland, not least because I have relatives in Magherafelt. I can tell the hon. Gentleman what we are doing about digital waste tracking. It is now impossible for a cow to be registered, as happened under the legacy system. We will have identity checks, criminal record checks and competency checks, so it will not be a free-for-all. Waste carriers will have to show their permit numbers on advertising and on their vehicles.
Session: Waste Crime
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Given the high-tech supply chains and advanced manufacturing skills base in Northern Ireland, will the defence growth deal leverage these resources to boost regional private sector growth?
Context
Shorts, Harland & Wolff and Thales in Northern Ireland have world-class engineering capabilities.
Matthew Patrick
I have met many businesses across Northern Ireland to discuss the defence growth deal, focusing on skills and supply chains to support more of those businesses.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy
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He's the one with the hair, Mr Speaker; I don't have any. I welcome the Minister's response to the hon Member for Edinburgh North and Leith (Tracy Gilbert). The regulation of heat networks is not just an issue for her constituency, as the Minister well understands. My request to him—he is one of the Ministers who always respond very positively—is that he makes sure that we in Northern Ireland are able to take advantage of the opportunity that the hon Lady mentioned, and that he gives us a good answer.
Context
The regulation of heat networks is an issue beyond Edinburgh, specifically addressing how it applies to Northern Ireland.
Martin McCluskey
The Minister expressed interest in Northern Irish politics. He spent this morning in a Delegated Legislation Committee, delivering a reduction in bills through the removal of the renewables obligation. The Minister is willing to discuss how heat network regulation might operate in Northern Ireland.
Session: Heat Networks
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What will the Minister do to ensure that everyone knows about the opportunities and benefits of joining the forces during recruitment?
Context
The question addresses the promotion of life in the Army as normal and equal to civilian life, including benefits.
Louise Jones
We offer a range of benefits, beyond pay, to our armed forces recruits when they begin a career. We should highlight the package in the round during recruitment efforts.
Session: Armed Forces Paternity Leave
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I ask this question on behalf of the 6,000 WASPI women in Strangford. Given that the Department's own 2007 evaluation raised serious doubts about the effectiveness of letters to pensioners, how can the Minister justify the decision that no direct financial loss occurred when thousands of women were deprived of the 28-month notice period required to adjust their life savings and retirement plans? In the light of the Scottish Parliament's decision to again press this issue in February, will he please do the right thing, put actions before apologies, and deliver help and support?
Context
The Department's own 2007 evaluation raised doubts about the effectiveness of letters to pensioners, and thousands of women were deprived of the required notice period.
Torsten Bell
The hon. Member has raised this issue repeatedly over a number of years, and I recognise that. Specifically on the issues he raises, it was the ombudsman itself, rather than the Government, that initially set out that the women affected did not suffer direct financial loss. The ombudsman was looking narrowly at how the state pension age increase was communicated, which is different from the decision to accelerate the increase in 2011. The hon. Member raises the 2007 evidence showing a minority of people read and remembered such letters.
Session: State Pension Age Changes Compensation
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Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the Minister for his answers and for his endeavours to try to do better. The Minister and this House must recognise that public confidence is incredibly low due to repeated failures by the Government to do the right thing. How can the Government and the Minister ensure that changes take effect that restore confidence and remove any shade from areas of government? We have an obligation as elected representatives to openness and transparency.
Context
The MP highlights low public confidence due to repeated failures by the government.
Chris Ward
The hon. Gentleman is right to flag that concern, and it is something that the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister is working hard on with a package of reforms around transparency. On procurement changes, I emphasise that I am trying to work with businesses, unions, charities, the voluntary sector and as many people as I can to bring them in. The more we listen to them, the more we will get this right, but he makes a broader point that I know my colleagues are working hard on, too.
Session: Public Procurement
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Labour has done much to address child poverty, for example, but the issues with the price of heating oil, fuel and red diesel are the same in Wales as they are in Northern Ireland, and indeed across this great United Kingdom. The price of red diesel has increased for rural farmers and for the fishing sector, as has the price of diesel for heavy goods vehicles, so what is the Minister doing to help those three sectors and to ensure that the economy can survive? If the Government do that in Wales, they will have to do it in Northern Ireland as well.
Jo Stevens
I thank the hon. Gentleman for acknowledging the work that this Government have done on the cost of living. Red diesel continues to benefit from an 80% tax discount, which is saving farmers almost £300 million a year. We have already brought in a 5p fuel duty cut, which will last from this month until September. We have raised industry concerns about red diesel prices, and the Under-Secretary of State for Wales, my hon. Friend the Member for Cardiff North (Anna McMorrin), has also met farming unions to discuss red diesel. We have looked at price transparency with the Competition and Markets Authority, and we are keeping everything under careful review.
Session: Cost of Living
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Are there any plans for specialised youth clubs during the summer holidays to provide a safe, welcoming place for young people to meet that parents can afford to utilise?
Context
St Mark's parish church in Newtownards runs various programmes to tackle child poverty, but volunteers take a break in the summer. Parents need affordable and safe places for their children.
Marsha de Cordova
I thank the hon. Gentleman for all his contributions at Church questions. I hope he does not mind if I write to update him on what takes place over the summer.
Session: Child Poverty
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I thank the Minister for that answer and for her enthusiasm for what it is being brought forward. I want to ensure that Northern Ireland is very much a part of this; hopefully, the Minister will confirm that it will. With Northern Ireland being part of the host nations of Euro 2028, will the Minister confirm what steps have been taken to ensure that we in Northern Ireland are an intrinsic part of the event and not simply an afterthought? After all, we are part of this great United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, so we want to be part of it.
Context
The question arises from concerns about the inclusion and benefits of Northern Ireland in Euro 2028, following previous government's lack of action.
Lisa Nandy
The hon. Member will remember that when we were first elected to government back in 2024, the Northern Ireland Secretary and I worked very hard to try to ensure that Northern Ireland was able to host part of the games. Because of the timescales and the lack of action under the previous Government, we were not able to do that, but we made a firm commitment that Northern Ireland would feel the full benefit of these games, and we are still deeply committed to that.
Session: Euro 2028
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Welcoming commitments against anti-Muslim hostility, the MP raises concerns about similar issues affecting Jewish people. With recent press reports on antisemitism in healthcare settings, will the minister ensure everyone in the NHS is respected regardless of their religious beliefs?
Context
The MP addresses the need for respect towards Jewish patients and staff, referencing recent newspaper headlines about antisemitic incidents.
Wes Streeting
The Minister acknowledges that Jewish staff and patients face discrimination, including cases where they are afraid to disclose their faith due to safety concerns. He highlights the need for high-quality care considering genetic factors and condemns shocking racism experienced by Jewish individuals in the NHS.
Session: Muslims NHS
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Will the Minister talk with relevant Ministers in Northern Ireland to ensure that UK Government proposals help Northern Irish constituents dealing with leasehold issues?
Context
Similar issues exist in the questioner's constituency and they seek to ensure that Northern Irish constituents can benefit from proposed legislative changes.
Matthew Pennycook
The Minister engages regularly with Northern Ireland counterparts and is happy to provide insights of proposals for England and Wales, aiming to help constituents in all parts of the UK.
Session: Leasehold Reform
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What are the Government doing to ensure that there is accessibility at all train stations for all disabled people that meets equality legislation?
Context
Complaints about station accessibility for disabled people are common, and equality law requires accessibility to meet certain standards.
Keir Mather
The Government's published accessibility road map includes a pledge to continue the Access for All programme. Step-free routes have been rolled out to 270 stations so far, and the Railways Bill contains a legal duty to promote the interests of passengers with disabilities.
Session: Railway Stations Accessibility
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I thank the Minister, as always, for his answers. It is important that we all get the advantages of the level of methane harvested from landfill sites. In Northern Ireland we also have landfill sites, with a lot of rubbish and therefore a lot of methane possibilities. I know that the Minister visits Northern Ireland regularly, so what discussions has he had with the relevant Minister there to ensure that we can get the advantages that he mentioned in his reply to the hon. Member for Warrington South (Sarah Hall)?
Context
The Minister visits Northern Ireland regularly to discuss the advantages of harvesting methane from landfill sites.
Michael Shanks
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his kind comments. My visits to Northern Ireland are important to me, and at the very first meeting of the reconstituted inter-ministerial working group we had a conversation on that exact question: how can we support the reduction of methane across the UK, and how can we support that through the electricity system? Clearly, that is a transferred matter in Northern Ireland, but I continue to have those conversations with colleagues in the Executive.
Session: Methane from Landfill Sites
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I led a deputation to Kurdistan about five weeks ago, and was impressed by what the Government were doing there in relation to public order and hate crime legislation. There are many things in Kurdistan that we in the United Kingdom could take on board and have as our core values. Will she do that for me?
Context
A deputation to Kurdistan highlighted effective practices in public order and hate crime legislation, raising potential for UK adaptation of such values.
Sarah Jones
We are always willing to learn lessons from countries where good things are happening and apply them here.
Session: Independent Review of Public Order and Hate Crime Legislation
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Only 55% of Britain's food is produced in Britain, so food security should be a much bigger priority for this Government. Donald Trump's war in the Middle East, Putin's war on Ukraine have not woken up the Government to this, yet England is now the only country in the UK that does not financially support farmers in producing food. Is that not recklessly foolish?
Context
Concerns over food security due to global shocks such as wars and the lack of financial support for farmers in England.
Angela Eagle
Local markets are extremely important, particularly for maintaining local food supply. Most markets in England are owned and operated by local authorities with Covent Garden Market Authority being an exception under DEFRA's oversight. We recognise the importance of food security with current self-sufficiency at 67% or 77% excluding non-domestic produce.
Session: Publicly Owned Markets Food Security
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Could the measures discussed for England and Wales be put to the Policing and Justice Minister in Northern Ireland so as to improve their system?
Context
There is an expectation that improvements in the justice system should be shared across the UK, including with devolved administrations like Northern Ireland.
David Lammy
These issues are devolved to Northern Ireland, but we are in touch and communicate best practice, as the hon. Member would expect.
Session: National Listing Framework
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What has been done to ensure that personnel from Northern Ireland are not disadvantaged due to distance from home? Extra costs for meeting up with family or returning home during leave have led to concerns about financial burdens and family time.
Context
Personnel and families from Northern Ireland face additional costs when stationed on the mainland, affecting their ability to maintain family connections.
John Healey
The “get home” allowance has been introduced for serving personnel at Christmas. Additionally, the highest pay increase in 20 years has been delivered, with more than 10% over two years to make service life more affordable and address living wage concerns.
Session: Military Personnel Pay
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I thank the Minister for that very positive answer. There is nobody in this House or further afield who does not welcome the improvement of parental rights at work. I had a chance to speak to the Minister beforehand, so she will know where my question is coming from—I ask it on behalf of the small and medium-sized businesses that may find it difficult to cover those who are on parental leave. Has anything been done to help businesses, especially the small ones, that might find it difficult to put someone in place to cover those people's jobs when they are off?
Context
Small and medium-sized businesses may struggle to cover employees on parental leave.
Kate Dearden
I agree with the hon. Gentleman that family-friendly workplaces strengthen our workforce and our economy, and are important in reducing the turnover of staff and retaining high-quality staff. That is why it is really important that we are working with businesses, small and large, on our wider parental pay and leave review. In every area of my work, I am very conscious of the need to work closely with businesses in different areas, recognising that we share the same goal of keeping people in work, and especially of supporting parents and making sure that workplaces are much more family-friendly.
Session: Parental Rights at Work
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Vascular Sector Reform
10 September 2026
Responding: James Frith
Main Concerns
["Jim Shannon highlighted the pressing need for reform in lower limb vascular care, citing worrying statistics from Northern Ireland, including high amputation rates and rising diabetes prevalence. He noted that the risk of developing peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is four times higher among smokers and two to four times higher among people with diabetes. Shannon also mentioned that approximately 4,200 major lower-limb amputations occur annually due to PAD, each costing an average of £28,000 to the NHS. He emphasized the need for early intervention and prevention to address these issues. Mr Ahmed is concerned about the high burden of vascular disease in Scotland, particularly in Glasgow South West, where life expectancy and healthy life expectancy are declining despite higher NHS spending and resources compared to the rest of the country. He mentions that Scottish hospitals are treating fewer patients now than before the pandemic, unlike English hospitals, which have surpassed pre-pandemic levels under the Labour Government. He also points out the proposed massive restructuring of Scotland's NHS by the SNP Government without detailed consultation, which raises questions about who the changes serve and how their success or failure will be judged."]
Specific Asks
['Shannon called on the government to ensure the cardiovascular disease modern service framework includes distinct pathways and outcome measures for vascular conditions. He also asked the Minister to support a national foot attack pathway and clear waiting time standards, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and timely care. Mr Ahmed urges the Minister to consider the asks from the Circulation Foundation and the APPG, particularly focusing on the national foot attack pathway with same-day or next-day triage services for urgent cases to prevent major limb amputation. He also asks for community foot protection services in every integrated care board and the implementation of national waiting time standards for in-patients and out-patients, alongside a shift from paying for activity and inputs to paying for outcomes. He further calls for support for innovation and the optimisation of the NHS app for end-to-end digital pathways.']
Conflicts: Impact on Older People
09 July 2026
Responding: Chris Elmore
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the humanitarian impact of conflicts on older people, citing personal experiences and statistics. He mentions that approximately 200 million people aged 60 and over are living in fragile or conflict-affected settings globally. In Ukraine, one in four Ukrainians is aged over 60, with 90% of older people unable to pay for basic medical needs. The MP also highlights the difficulties faced by older people in Lebanon and Sudan due to displacement and lack of humanitarian aid. He stresses that older people are often invisible in data collection and face barriers such as inaccessible health services and age discrimination.']
Specific Asks
["The MP asks the Minister to commit to making humanitarian aid age-inclusive, prioritising continuity of medication, accessible health services, assistive devices, safe evacuation, mental health support, and inclusive cash assistance. He also requests explicit reference to older women's protection against gender-based violence in conflict zones."]
Stoma: Public Toilet Provision
18 June 2026
Responding: Nesil Caliskan
Main Concerns
['Jim Shannon highlighted the significant challenges faced by people living with stomas due to poor public toilet provision. He mentioned that more than 200,000 people across the UK live with a stoma and often need to plan their lives around toilet access. The Stoma Aware survey found that 62% of those with stomas avoid activities because suitable toilets are not available, while one in four have been challenged for using accessible toilets despite having a genuine need.']
Specific Asks
['Jim Shannon asked the Minister to meet Colostomy UK to discuss issues further. He also requested engagement with ministerial colleagues to explore supporting local authorities in maintaining adequate public toilet provision and to examine whether part M of the building regulations could be updated to include stoma-friendly features as standard for accessible toilets in new developments.']
Freedom of Religion or Belief: Sudan
11 June 2026
Responding: Hamish Falconer
Main Concerns
['Sudan is experiencing severe violations of freedom of religion or belief, with over 150,000 people estimated to have been killed since April 2023 and up to 15 million displaced. The situation includes the targeting of non-Arab communities by Rapid Support Forces, attacks on places of worship, and conflict-related sexual violence against women and children. Jim Shannon expressed deep concern over the lack of accountability for those perpetrating these atrocities.']
Specific Asks
['Jim Shannon asks the Minister to press for an immediate ceasefire, safe humanitarian access, protection of civilians, churches, mosques, and other places of worship. He also requests support for the mandate of the United Nations fact-finding mission in Sudan and the extension of the Darfur arms embargo across the whole country.']
Independent Faith Schools: VAT — [Sir Alec Shelbrooke in the Chair]
26 February 2026
Responding: Olivia Bailey
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the impact of VAT on independent faith schools. About 370,000 pupils in England attend independent schools with a religious ethos, and many are not wealthy but work hard to afford these schools for their children's education. Since July 2024, 110 independent schools have closed, affecting nearly 9,500 students, including almost 2,500 with special educational needs and disabilities. The Independent Schools Council reports a drop of 5.2% in the number of pupils since 2023 and a fall of 3.6% in the past academic year alone."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to propose a VAT registration threshold for independent schools charging below £7,690 per pupil, which would protect low-income families, preserve community-based education, maintain educational diversity, and avoid unnecessary pressure on the state system. The estimated loss of VAT revenue from this proposal is only 2% of the projected £1.5 billion raised annually.']
Myanmar: Religious Minority Persecution
08 January 2026
Responding: Seema Malhotra
Main Concerns
['The debate highlights the worsening religious persecution in Myanmar since the military coup of February 2021. Churches, mosques and monasteries have been destroyed or occupied by troops, with over 3.4 million people displaced internally, including 90,000 from Chin state and around 237,200 from Kachin state. Rohingya Muslims remain stateless in Bangladesh, facing further persecution.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks for international condemnation, co-ordination and action to protect vulnerable religious minorities and seeks confirmation on criminal investigations for senior Tatmadaw leaders.']
World COPD Day
20 November 2025
Responding: Ashley Dalton
Main Concerns
['COPD is a significant issue with over 1.7 million diagnosed cases in the UK and potentially 600,000 undiagnosed cases. Emergency hospital admissions for COPD increased by 9% in 2024 compared to 2023, resulting in 121,129 A&E admissions. Lost productivity due to COPD costs around £1.7 billion per year.']
Specific Asks
["How can the Government include respiratory health in the next wave of their 10-year plan for health and how can they address deprivation's impact on COPD?"]
Modern Day Slavery: Pakistan
13 November 2025
Responding: Seema Malhotra
Main Concerns
["Estimates suggest that more than 1 million men, women and children work in approximately 10,000 brick kilns in the Punjab region alone. Despite religious minorities making up only around 5% of Pakistan's population, they constitute over half of those working in brick kilns. The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act 1992 has failed to address bonded labour and child labour remains widespread, with 62% of children never enrolled in a formal or informal education programme."]
Specific Asks
['The debate calls for stronger enforcement of anti-slavery laws and the provision of basic services like healthcare and education for workers in brick kilns. It also asks the Government to support initiatives that aim to eliminate bonded labour practices and provide educational opportunities for children.']
IVF Egg Donation: Young Women
26 June 2025
Responding: Karin Smyth
Main Concerns
["Adverts targeting young women for their eggs have increased significantly and are seen at various public places. There is no legal requirement to state health risks upfront, despite the invasive procedure required for egg retrieval. Clinics do not undertake long-term follow-up checks on donors' health, and there has been an increase in donations from economically deprived areas without understanding the potential side effects."]
Specific Asks
['The debate aims to highlight the need for regulation of IVF egg donation advertisements and ensure that all associated risks are clearly communicated to potential donors.']
World Asthma Day
15 May 2025
Responding: Ashley Dalton
Main Concerns
['The debate highlights the ongoing issues with asthma care in the UK, including high death rates and hospitalisations doubling over two decades. With 7.2 million people living with asthma in the UK, representing one in nine adults and one in eight children, there are significant challenges such as preventable deaths (66% of which were avoidable) and substantial costs to the NHS (£9.6 billion annually).']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP requests that the Minister address the need for better access to inhalers and improved asthma care to reduce hospital admissions, waiting times, and ultimately save lives.']
Air Traffic Control Disruption
10 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Summer Health and Resilience
09 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Health and Care Bill - Schedule 1
07 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. This amendment aims to confer primary care functions on integrated care boards, thereby ensuring better coordination and integration of health ser...
Jackdaw and Rosebank Oil and Gas Fields
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Bluetongue Virus in Livestock
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Church Commissioners
03 September 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asked about the financial impact of parish shares on churches and the support available from the Church of England once reserves are exhausted. Emphasised the importance of churches in providing commu...
Rewiring the State
02 September 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Prime Minister has set out priorities to address 40 years of overly centralised decision making and over-privatisation, which have stripped power and resources away from communities. The Governmen...
Ways and Means
01 September 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to amend the Sovereign Grant Act 2011 to specify the amount of the Sovereign Grant for the financial year 2027-28 and to confer a duty and power on the Treasury to specify the amount of the Sove...
British Steel
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Construction Industry Training Board: Funding
04 February 2026
The petition addresses the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) decision to cease funding for local training groups, which are crucial for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in the c...
View Full Petition -->
Town Deal Funding: Owens in Hastings
10 March 2025
The petition addresses the misuse of town deal funding allocated to Owens entertainment centre in Hastings, which closed shortly after opening despite receiving £150,000 from taxpayers' money.
View Full Petition -->
Pimping websites and paying for sex
29 November 2024
The petition addresses the commercial sexual exploitation facilitated by pimping websites, which are driving prostitution and sex trafficking in the UK and profiting from extremely vulnerable women.
View Full Petition -->
Recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry
30 April 2024
The petitioners are concerned about the long delays in providing compensation for individuals who received infected blood and have suffered as a result, along with the detrimental impact on their heal...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
96.8%
91 of 94 votes
Aye Votes
55
58.5% of votes
No Votes
36
38.3% of votes
Abstentions
3
3.2% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
1
PMQs Asked
495
Ministerial Questions Asked
1839
House of Commons Debates Involved
63
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
4
Petitions Presented
94
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
-73% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+3593% above average
This MP:
495
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+2404% above average
This MP:
63
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+37741% above average
This MP:
1839
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+63% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+41% above average
This MP:
96.8
Average:
68.8
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Jim Shannon's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.