Jo Gideon
MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
My constituent Claire Massey and one of her two children almost lost their lives in a fire at her home in February 2023. Since then, Claire has been a victim of bullying by aggressive claims handlers, and of negligent and unprofessional conduct, including violating a policy and withdrawing alternative accommodation, by the insurer Policy Expert—part of the Accredited Insurance (Europe)— and Trinity Claims. Claire has raised institutional failings with the Financial Conduct Authority, which appears toothless. She has also successfully raised individual issues with the financial ombudsman, but the delaying tactics of the insurers mean that she is no closer to a resolution. Claire is here in the Gallery today and asks whether the Prime Minister will meet her and me to look at how we can better protect consumers against bad practices in the insurance industry.
Context
Claire Massey and her child nearly died in a fire in February 2023. Since then, she has faced bullying by aggressive claims handlers from Policy Expert and Trinity Claims. Claire has raised issues with the Financial Conduct Authority but lacks resolution due to insurer delaying tactics.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is an excellent campaigner on behalf of her constituent, and I extend my sympathy to Claire and her family. While I cannot comment on individual cases, as I am sure she will understand, I know that the Financial Conduct Authority has the powers it needs to take action against firms that breach its rules. Further, customers can contact the Financial Ombudsman Service, whose decisions are binding on insurers. I will immediately ensure that the relevant Minister meets my hon. Friend to look more closely at this specific issue and the case that she raises.
Assessment
The PM did not commit to meeting Claire Massey himself but promised a meeting with the relevant Minister instead.
Will Immediately Ensure That The Relevant Minister Meets My Hon. Friend
Session: PMQs
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The shocking revelations of the Horizon scandal highlighted the Post Office's financial incompetence, and my right hon. Friend will know that the public's confidence in the institution is at an all-time low. Does he agree that as high street banks are closing branches across the country, we should look at developing new community banking solutions rather than giving the Post Office sole responsibility for providing access to cash and other banking services in poorly served neighbourhoods?
Context
The MP highlights the Post Office's financial incompetence in light of the Horizon scandal and suggests looking at alternative community banking solutions.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend for her question, but I would just say that we should not make the mistake of conflating this scandal with the actions of many hard-working local postmasters and sub-postmasters. Customers can access cash and banking services through a wide range of channels, including a contract with the Post Office Counters service, which provides a valuable channel. I agree with her, however, on the importance of access to cash, which is why the Government have legislated to protect that as part of the recent Financial Services and Markets Act 2023, to ensure that the vast majority of people should be no more than 3 miles away from such a cashpoint.
Assessment
The questioner's proposal for community banking solutions was not directly supported or dismissed; instead, existing measures and Post Office channels were highlighted without addressing the specific suggestion.
Conflating Scandal
Post Office Counters Service
Session: PMQs
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Tomorrow is the National Day of Reflection... Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking Stoke-on-Trent City Council for supporting my call for a post box to heaven in Carmountside cemetery? On the second anniversary of the tragic death of my constituent, two-year-old Harper-Lee Fanthorpe... will he back my call for legislation to ensure greater product safety?
Context
The National Day of Reflection is a Marie Curie-led initiative to commemorate lives lost. A constituent's child tragically died from ingesting a button battery, leading to a campaign for safer product standards.
Rishi Sunak
Of course I join my hon. Friend in thanking Stoke-on-Trent City Council... We are aware of the concerns about button batteries... The law is very clear that products available in the UK must be safe.
Assessment
Did not commit to specific legislation for product safety
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that financial inclusion is an essential part of levelling-up opportunities in our communities, and will he meet Dave and me to discuss how we can replicate his success story in other areas such as Stoke-on-Trent?
Context
Inspiring story of Dave Fishwick's journey to set up a community bank; calls for more initiatives like this to support local communities.
Rishi Sunak
Community focus banks and non-bank lenders such as Burnley Savings and Loans have a vital role to play in ensuring that everyone has access to affordable credit. That is why we have made it quicker and easier for new banks to enter the market.
Assessment
Did not confirm meeting or specific replication of community bank model.
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister has long been a friend to business. As Chancellor, he listened to businesses in Stoke-on-Trent Central about their issues. Stoke-on-Trent has a wide range of manufacturing fabrication and engineering excellence. Does he agree with me that growing these activities is a vital strand of our levelling-up ambitions? May I invite him to re-visit my constituency to meet these businesses?
Context
Stoke-on-Trent Central has advanced manufacturing businesses that are concerned about energy prices.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is an excellent champion for her constituents, particularly her advanced manufacturing businesses, which I have had the pleasure of visiting with her in the past. It is important that we support those businesses on energy prices, which we are doing through the announcement that the Chancellor recently made, particularly in regard to generous support for energy-intensive industries. Indeed, they can also apply for up to £315 million-worth of capital grant funding to help them make the transition to net zero.
Session: PMQs
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North Staffordshire YMCA undertakes fantastic work transforming lives locally. It has been recognised through the Queen's awards for enterprise. There is no better example of levelling up in action. I invite the Prime Minister to join me in congratulating all the staff, volunteers and partners of the YMCA in north Staffordshire.
Context
The North Staffordshire YMCA has received the Queen's awards for enterprise, transforming lives in Stoke-on-Trent.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend very much, and she is totally right. It is part of our levelling up. We are absolutely determined to do that as fast as we possibly can.
Assessment
Did not commit to visiting Stoke-on-Trent but acknowledged the work of the YMCA in levelling up.
Absolutely Determined
Session: PMQs
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Walleys Quarry, in the constituency of my hon. Friend the Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme (Aaron Bell), is stinking again, with monitoring stations showing high levels of hydrogen sulphide and with complaints soaring. The site is blighting my constituents too, and the Environment Agency now says the owner is no longer working towards compliance. It is long past time that the permit was revoked and the company prosecuted. Will the Minister come to Staffordshire to witness the stink and see the sorry sight for himself?
Context
Walleys Quarry is causing significant complaints due to high levels of hydrogen sulphide detected by monitoring stations.
Steve Barclay
I always listen closely to your steer, Mr Speaker. My hon. Friend raises an extremely important issue, which I know is very troubling to those affected. The Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my hon. Friend the Member for Keighley (Robbie Moore) is going there in the coming days, and I can assure her that this is being discussed and actively followed up.
Session: Topical Questions
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I have been working with the Minister on button battery safety. Will he meet me to discuss progress, particularly how guidelines drawn up by the Office for Product Safety and Standards can be made compulsory?
Context
Progress on preventing deaths and injuries from button batteries following a tragic incident involving one of the MP's constituents.
Kevin Hollinrake
My hon Friend has done a fantastic job with the campaign. Of course I shall be happy to meet her to see what more can be done.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Post Office Horizon scandal has shocked the nation. My constituent Kym Ledgar received a settlement under the historical shortfall scheme, which did not take into account the enormous stress, extra work in balancing books, damage to her reputation, and lost income she had to make up herself. Does the Minister agree that we need to acknowledge wider costs of Post Office's behaviour? Will he meet me to discuss compensation reflecting these impacts?
Context
A constituent, Kym Ledgar, received a settlement under the historical shortfall scheme but faced significant non-financial losses including stress and damage to reputation.
Kevin Hollinrake
I apologise on behalf of the Government for what Kym Ledgar has been through. It is our intention that everybody gets fair compensation, including non-pecuniary losses. We have taken steps to ensure fair and swift delivery of compensation via an independent advisory board. Further action will be considered and I am happy to meet to discuss these matters.
Session: Post Office Horizon System Compensation for Sub-postmasters
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I thank my right hon. Friend for her reply. Following the commitment in “Powering Up Britain” to provide up to £20 billion of funding for early deployment of CCUS, how does she intend to finance that support? Does she recognise that CCUS funding needs to be matched by creating a competitive environment for private sector investment, including a carbon border adjustment mechanism to smooth the path to deployment, as recommended by the Commission for Carbon Competitiveness?
Context
The MP references the government's commitment of £20 billion and seeks details on how this funding will be financed.
Claire Coutinho
I welcome my hon. Friend's work as a member of the Commission for Carbon Competitiveness, and she makes an excellent point. The £20 billion will be funded through a variety of sources and will be allocated in due course, and early this year the Government consulted on a range on measures to support decarbonisation, including a carbon border adjustment mechanism.
Session: Carbon Capture, Usage and Storage
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What assessment she has made of the potential impact of carbon capture, usage and storage technology on economic growth?
Context
The MP is seeking an assessment of the potential for carbon capture, usage and storage to stimulate economic growth.
Claire Coutinho
We have committed £20 billion to the early deployment of carbon, capture, utilisation and storage, which will deliver economic growth and decarbonisation of our industrial heartlands. Our analysis has shown that it could support up to 50,000 jobs in 2030 and add up to £5 billion to the economy by 2050.
Session: Carbon Capture, Usage and Storage
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Given the cost of ill health, does my right hon. Friend agree it's time for a multi-departmental taskforce to develop early intervention strategies on societal challenges?
Context
The cost of ill health to government is hundreds of billions, with obesity alone estimated at over £58 billion.
Oliver Dowden
My hon. Friend is right to highlight these challenges. The health service in his constituency is innovative in addressing wider public health issues.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the recent announcement that a growing number of small and medium-sized enterprises have secured Government contracts, but businesses with a social purpose and female-owned businesses are still under-represented in public procurement opportunities. Will my hon. Friend meet me to discuss what can be done to remedy that?
Context
The question arises from recent announcements about small and medium-sized enterprises securing government contracts but highlights the under-representation of socially-minded and female-owned businesses in public procurement.
Alex Burghart
I would be very happy to meet my hon. Friend about this and other issues. She will know that the Procurement Bill means we are now looking at the most advantageous tender, which means that value for money remains central but that those seeking to strike up procurement can also look for other factors when deciding which contract to sign.
Session: Public Procurement Value for Money
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Campaigners stress the combined effects of the gender pay gap and rising costs on women's finances. What financial support is my right hon. Friend providing to help these women?
Context
Campaigners highlight the gender pay gap and cost of living crisis, impacting many women financially.
Kemi Badenoch
The decisive action we have taken supports households across the UK, prioritising those most vulnerable. We deliver the largest ever increase in the national living wage, benefiting more than 2 million people, disproportionately women, and increasing benefits in line with inflation for over 10 million working-age families.
Session: Equitable Pay Women
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Does my hon. Friend agree that such initiatives, which make our shopping areas more attractive, are a good investment that encourages business growth locally? Will he join me in congratulating my city centre BID?
Context
Businesses and traders in Stoke-on-Trent city centre are supported by the Hanley business improvement district, which is receiving investment from the safer streets fund to improve Hope Street.
Kevin Hollinrake
It is a great pleasure to do so. I congratulate my hon. Friend on her work. The money that has been invested in Hope Street will contribute to its being a safer, more welcoming place to visit and shop, which in turn will support the local economy.
Session: Support for SMEs
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What steps her Department is taking to help support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Context
The question arises from the need to support the growth of SMEs in various sectors, including finance and business.
Kevin Hollinrake
Through finance, we are making sure that the Government are supporting UK SMEs through our recovery loan scheme and through the start-up loans scheme, which has provided 101,000 loans and nearly £1 billion. On business support, a network of 38 growth hubs across England provides access to information and advice, and we are removing barriers by supporting SMEs seeking to export through the Export Academy, UK Export Finance, cutting red tape and incentivising investment.
Session: Support for SMEs
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I welcome the Home Secretary's work with the Prime Minister on tackling illegal immigration and the statement last week. The statement talked about fairness; I think she knows very well that Stoke-on-Trent feels that it has not been treated fairly. The Minister mentioned that Scotland could take a few more asylum seekers if they were really concerned about these things. Other parts of the country could do the same.
Context
Concerns about fairness in the distribution of asylum seekers across different parts of the UK.
Robert Jenrick
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. There are almost as many hotels in use in Stoke-on-Trent as in the whole of Scotland, bar the city of Glasgow. Fair and equitable distribution involves Scotland paying its fair share. We are acutely aware of the concerns of my hon. Friend and her colleagues in Stoke-on-Trent.
Session: Topical Questions
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I have championed the availability of affordable, healthy and nutritious food for all regions and backgrounds in the UK. Families face cost-of-living pressures as evidenced by research from the British Retail Consortium which recorded a record high 12.5% inflation in UK food prices in November. What assurances can you give me that you are doing everything in your power through trade negotiations to mitigate the effect of food price inflation on ordinary working families?
Context
Families are experiencing cost of living pressures, with the British Retail Consortium reporting a record high 12.5% inflation in UK food prices in November.
Greg Hands
The Government has measures in place such as council tax discounts and further help. On food, ensuring commitment to free trade and diverse sources of supply is essential. Britain must remain open for food exporters to keep prices down while recognising the role of domestic agriculture.
Session: Trade Policy Food Prices
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A new WHO study found that poorer women in Britain have some of the highest cancer death rates in Europe. Income levels should not be a determinant for someone's chances of getting and dying from cancer. Does the Minister recognise this as unacceptable, and will she commit to a cross-Government strategy that tackles health inequalities?
Context
A recent World Health Organisation study published in The Lancet highlighted high cancer death rates among poorer women in Britain, indicating significant health inequalities.
Maria Caulfield
I refer the shadow Minister to the work that the Government are already doing. Cancer in particular is one of the five core areas in which we are investing significant resources to diagnose people earlier. She may be interested in the lung cancer detection vans, which go to those communities with the highest incidence rates and poorer outcomes for lung cancer. Some 70% of people with stage 1 or 2 cancer are being detected, significantly improving their life expectancy.
Session: Health Disparities White Paper
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This year's research by Social Enterprise UK has found that social enterprises are overtaking the rest of the private sector in the proportion of firms that are exporting overseas. Does my hon. Friend agree that that shows the value of greater diversity in business?
Context
A report by Social Enterprise UK has found that social enterprises are outperforming other private sector firms in exporting overseas.
Mike Freer (Minister for Exports)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. With my other hat on as Minister for Equalities, I can say that with the full support of the Secretary of State, we are working to ensure that the exporters and their supply chains are fully representative of all sections of society.
Session: Topical Questions
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Thanking my right hon. Friend for the £56 million for three innovative levelling-up bids in Stoke-on-Trent, which has warmly welcomed as the biggest investment for 50 years. However, investing in our social fabric and growing local social infrastructure must be community-led to achieve best results. Will he update this House on whether the shared prosperity fund will target grassroots community capacity-building investment?
Context
The city of Stoke-on-Trent received £56 million from the levelling-up fund. The question is about whether this funding will target grassroots community capacity-building investment.
Helen Whately
The £56 million Stoke-on-Trent was awarded in the first round of the levelling-up fund for regeneration projects across the city. The UK shared prosperity fund, worth over £2.6 billion, will allocate funding across the UK. Further details of the fund will be set out later this year.
Session: Topical Questions
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Fifty of my constituents in Boatman Drive, Etruria, have been unable to access the road to their homes for over a year due to a large sinkhole that has forced Stoke-on-Trent City Council to close the road to all vehicles, including emergency services. Many of the residents have been in contact with me. One, Mr Madadi, was offered a fantastic new employment opportunity but could not accept the offer as it required relocation, and his home could not be sold because of the sinkhole. Will the Minister meet me to help resolve this issue, which I am sure she will agree has been going on for far too long?
Context
A large sinkhole has led to the closure of Boatman Drive, preventing residents from accessing their homes and affecting a job opportunity for one constituent.
Rachel Maclean
I commend my hon. Friend for raising that concern in the House and standing up for her constituents. I fully understand that this is a long- running issue involving several parties, including the water utility company and the housing developer. I completely share her and her constituents' frustration. I would be delighted to ask my noble Friend the roads Minister, who deals with this, to meet her; she has already undertaken to do so.
Session: Road Condition England
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What steps his Department is taking to improve the condition of England's roads?
Context
The government's road investment programme is under scrutiny for its effectiveness and impact on local communities.
Rachel Maclean
In addition to investing £1.7 billion in 2021-22 in local roads, plus an unprecedented £27 billion in the strategic road network through to 2025, we are working towards the creation of a common data standard for the monitoring of road condition. That will aim to drive innovation and flexibility in monitoring local roads, enabling authorities to target defects in their networks more quickly.
Session: Road Condition England
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It took just shy of three years to leave the European Union but only 29 days for the EU to threaten to trigger article 16 of the Northern Ireland protocol—an apparent “oversight”. Will my right hon. Friend please reassure my constituents that confidence in the protocol will be restored? Does he agree that the EU urgently needs to resolve the issues faced by people and businesses in Northern Ireland?
Context
The EU's decision to invoke article 16 of the Northern Ireland protocol without discussions with Great Britain or Northern Ireland, raising concerns about confidence in the protocol.
Brandon Lewis
My hon. Friend makes an important point, which was why I was pleased to hear that Vice-President Šefčovič had recently agreed to meet businesses across communities and civic society in Northern Ireland to hear directly from the people who are being affected by some of the issues that we are seeing, particularly the impact that the EU's decision to invoke article 16 had in terms of compounding these issues and of undermining cross-community confidence. That is why we will take forward some further temporary operational steps, which I will outline in the written ministerial statement, to ensure that people in Northern Ireland are able to continue to have access to products in the way that the protocol envisaged.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol Implementation
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What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol. My constituents are concerned about the impact of the protocol on their daily lives and business operations. I am seeking clarity on what steps the government is taking to address these concerns.
Context
Discussions on how to implement the Northern Ireland Protocol effectively and address concerns raised by people and businesses in the region.
Brandon Lewis
My Cabinet colleagues and I continue to work together closely to ensure that we meet our protocol obligations in a pragmatic and proportionate way. We have heard the concerns raised by people and businesses in Northern Ireland and are sensitive to the economic, societal and political realities there. That is why we are taking forward a series of further temporary operational steps that reflect the simple reality that more time is needed to adapt to and implement new requirements as we continue our discussions with the EU. The steps include the new operational plan for supermarkets and their suppliers, committed to at the Joint Committee.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol Implementation
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The fantastic Staffordshire University is in my constituency of Stoke-on-Trent Central, and since the start of the pandemic I have received several messages from students and constituents attending the university with concerns about their financial position. Many of them were placed on furlough and have experienced reduced hours, while also being locked into private tenancy agreements throughout this academic year; they are therefore unable to benefit from the rent reductions offered by Staffordshire University to students living in on-site accommodation. What consideration has my hon. Friend given to students in similar positions across the country? Would she consider altering the loan available to students whose household income has been affected significantly during this difficult time?
Context
Students in the constituency are facing financial hardship due to being on furlough or having reduced hours while also being locked into private tenancy agreements.
Michelle Donelan
My first message to students would be to go to their university and seek hardship funding, because we have made available an additional £70 million that needs to be spent by April to support students, including international and postgraduate students. Any student who is not receiving the maximum loan but whose household income has changed by 15% may be able to get additional support. They should fill in an income circumstances form for the Student Loans Company and get the support available to them.
Session: Covid-19 Financial Support for Students
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What steps his Department is taking to support university students facing financial hardship as a result of the covid-19 outbreak?
Context
Financial hardship among university students due to the pandemic.
Michelle Donelan
We are making available an additional £70 million of student hardship funding this financial year. This money is in addition to the £256 million of assisting higher education funding that providers can draw upon in the academic year to support students in hardship.
Session: Covid-19 Financial Support for Students
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NHS staff at Royal Stoke University Hospital are using an old site for car parking, but this is now under demolition. Will the Minister ensure that necessary investment is forthcoming for additional staff car parking facilities?
Context
The MP inquired about the need for additional car parking facilities at a local hospital to support NHS staff.
Edward Argar
The Government are committed to increasing hospital car parking capacity and supporting trusts to invest in their car parks. An emergency funding application by the Royal Stoke has been received and is currently being considered.
Session: Health Service Capital Estate
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Does the Minister agree that it is right to look for investment from the active travel fund to complement bus and train travel with an e-bike hire system and to build a sustainable local network for charging electric vehicles?
Context
The approval of a £29 million transforming cities fund proposal for Stoke-on-Trent prompts the question about complementing bus and train travel with an e-bike hire system and building a sustainable local network for charging electric vehicles.
Rachel Maclean
The Prime Minister's cycling and walking plan includes a commitment to create a national e-cycle support programme, with a £1 million e-bike extension fund launched to enable increased use of e-bikes. Additionally, we are investing £1.3 billion across the country to accelerate the roll-out of charging infrastructure.
Session: Electric Vehicles
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What steps his Department is taking to (a) support people to switch to and (b) install the necessary infrastructure for electric vehicles by 2030?
Context
The question arises from a broader initiative to accelerate the transition towards electric vehicles, addressing both the purchase of such vehicles and the installation of charging infrastructure.
Rachel Maclean
We are investing over £2.8 billion to help people buy zero emission vehicles and accelerate the roll-out of charging infrastructure.
Session: Electric Vehicles
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The rising level of obesity is becoming an increasingly serious problem. With nearly one in seven adults considered obese in Stoke-on-Trent Central, does my right hon. Friend agree that tackling rising levels of obesity has never been more important for our public health and should remain a priority for our Government?
Context
Royal Stoke University Hospital warned about rising levels of obesity in the constituency.
Matthew Hancock
Yes, I do, and so does the Prime Minister. We feel very strongly about this.
Session: Topical Questions
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With difficult times ahead for Stoke-on-Trent families hit by the economic downturn caused by coronavirus, does my hon. Friend agree that it is more important than ever for universal credit to offer any necessary flexibility to ensure people get the support they need to return to work, particularly those affected by local lockdown restrictions?
Context
The MP highlights the economic downturn affecting families in Stoke-on-Trent and seeks flexibility in universal credit to support those affected by local lockdowns.
Will Quince
I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend. Universal credit is designed to support people into work. It supports those who need help and is fair to everyone who pays for it. Throughout the pandemic many, sadly, have lost their jobs or seen their incomes reduced. Thankfully, universal credit and the Government's £9.3 billion investment in the welfare safety net have been there to help catch many of those affected, and that has been vital for the 3 million people who have made a benefit claim since March.
Session: Legacy Benefits and Universal Credit
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that in times when alternative methods are replacing the usual privacy of face-to-face appointments behind closed doors, GPs surgeries must be sensitive to the whereabouts and comfort of their patients to ensure that others do not have the same experience as my constituent?
Context
GPs surgeries are adapting by holding surgeries outside in car parks.
Matthew Hancock
Yes, I wholeheartedly agree with my hon. Friend, who speaks well for her constituent. I am very sorry that her constituent had that experience, and of course GPs should be sensitive, as the large majority are.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will my right hon. Friend outline the precautions the Government are taking to ensure that cancer patients' treatments and appointments are not put to the back of the queue and do not suffer from undue delays?
Context
Patients being treated for cancer at the Royal Stoke University Hospital were relocated to Nuffield Health in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Matthew Hancock
My hon. Friend makes an important point. The Royal Stoke Hospital has performed brilliantly during coronavirus, and I thank everybody who works there for the efforts that they have gone to. It is critical for everybody to understand that the best way to keep cancer services running is to suppress the disease; the more the disease is under control, the more we can both recover and continue with cancer treatments.
Session: Cancer Outcomes
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What conversations has the Secretary of State had with businesses across Wales and what kind of response did he receive?
Context
The Secretary of State has engaged with businesses about the proposals.
Simon Hart (Secretary of State for Wales)
Engaged with businesses through in-person and online meetings. No major concerns expressed; they see UKIM as a natural successor to the status quo, important for economic recovery and job creation.
Session: UK Internal Market
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What fiscal steps is the government taking to support the charity sector during the covid-19 outbreak? I thank the Minister for that answer and for the support that enabled charities to develop new ways of working during lockdown. Will the Minister outline how this Government's support has helped my constituents in Stoke-on-Trent Central?
Context
The question addresses the financial support given to charities during the pandemic.
Kemi Badenoch (Minister for Women and Equalities, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Treasury)
My hon. Friend is right to highlight the extraordinary innovations of charities in Stoke-on-Trent and across the country. We have seen innovation and adaptation right across the economy, made possible in part by the unprecedented level of support that we have been referring to during this session. As of the end of last week, £230 million had been disbursed from the Government's charity support fund.
Session: Covid-19 Charity Sector
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Would my right hon. Friend join me in welcoming the Government's commitment to an extra 26,000 primary care staff and confirm that this will improve access to primary care services for my constituents in Stoke-on-Trent Central?
Context
Jo Gideon inquires about the Government's commitment to increase primary care staff.
Matthew Hancock (The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care)
Yes, the 26,000 extra staff, as well as the extra GPs in primary care, are going to improve the position, but we also taking steps to improve access by making sure that people can access primary care in the best possible way. I can be clear to the House today that we will take a digital first approach to accessing primary care and out-patient appointments, so that, wherever clinically and practically possible, people can access—and should access—primary care through phones and digital means.
Session: Low-risk Medicines
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The Goodwin International training school in my constituency is an exemplar of skills training by a successful modern manufacturer with a world-class reputation. For less established firms such as challenger small and medium-sized enterprises, what support is on offer to level them up to Goodwin International standards?
Context
The Goodwin International training school in Jo Gideon's constituency is a model of skills training, but less established firms need support to reach similar standards.
Simon Clarke
I had a good meeting yesterday with my hon. Friend and fellow Stoke and north Staffordshire MPs. The Government are supporting small firms across England through the network of 38 growth hubs, one of which is based on Stoke-on-Trent. In our manifesto, we announced our intention to create a national skills fund, which will help to transform the lives of people who have not got on the work ladder and lack qualifications, as well as people looking to return to work or to upskill.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Volunteers — [Caroline Nokes in the Chair]
02 May 2024
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
['The absence of a large number of Back Benchers gives Jo Gideon the chance to opine at length on volunteering, which she views as critical for a vibrant and resilient civil society. She highlights the economic impact valued by Andy Haldane as being in excess of £50 billion annually or 2.5% of GDP, but notes that this is likely an underestimate if informal volunteering were included. Gideon acknowledges the significant contribution made by volunteers during crises such as the pandemic, and expresses concern about the decline in formal volunteering since 2017, with a reduction from 17% to just 13%. She mentions particular struggles faced by small charities in recruiting and retaining volunteers, which has led to unprecedented waiting lists.']
Specific Asks
["Gideon calls on the Government to do more research into the cost of living impact on university students' ability to volunteer, review and uplift the approved mileage allowance payment for volunteers who use their own cars, introduce a right to request paid leave for volunteering or amend section 50 of the Employment Rights Act 1996 to enable reasonable time off for trustee duties. She asks the Minister to develop a strategy that will work for the country in supporting and promoting volunteering."]
Food Waste and Food Distribution
16 April 2024
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the significant amount of food waste in the UK, with 4.6 million tonnes of edible food going to waste each year, enough to feed everyone for almost two months. This contributes to £20.8 billion worth of wasted food annually and is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Household waste can be reduced by improving date labelling on produce and removing unnecessary use-by stickers. In addition, more than half of councils do not collect food waste separately, leading to significant environmental impacts when it decomposes in landfill. Pre-harvest losses are also substantial, with £30 million worth of strawberries and lettuces wasted due to decisions beyond farmers' control."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to clarify how councils will finance new weekly separate food waste collections and whether environmental land management schemes can incentivise farmers to redistribute edible food waste. I also request an update on progress for regulatory approaches to food waste reporting by large businesses, as measuring and reducing food waste is crucial.']
Dormant Assets Funding: Community Wealth Funds
06 December 2022
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
['The Member of Parliament for Stoke-on-Trent Central is concerned about underfunded neighbourhoods experiencing deteriorating social infrastructure, resulting in worse outcomes across health and wellbeing, education, and employment. These areas have received £7.77 per head in national charitable funding compared to other equally deprived areas receiving more than twice as much. During the cost of living crisis, these communities are particularly vulnerable due to a lack of resources and skills for applying for funds.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks that the Government consider community wealth funds which could provide long-term investment in left-behind neighbourhoods and empower local communities to take control over their own development and decision-making processes. She urges the Government to capitalise on this opportunity to support levelling up efforts without placing a strain on public finances.']
National Food Strategy and Public Health
15 December 2021
Responding: Jo Churchill
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the impact of food poverty on health, education and life chances in my constituency. The Government's programme has not recognised the importance of a holistic solution to food system failures. The Food Foundation report estimated that the poorest decile of UK households would need to spend 74% of their after-housing disposable income on food to meet the cost of the 'Eatwell Guide', compared with just 6% in the richest decile. In my constituency, around 92,000 adults aged 16 or over are not eating the recommended five portions on a daily basis, and 76.1% of adults in Stoke-on-Trent are overweight or obese."]
Specific Asks
["I ask the Minister when the White Paper is likely to be published and whether more work can be done to encourage innovation by incentivising good practice and ensuring that foods that contribute negatively to the nation's health bill share the cost of that bill. I also urge the Government to consider recommendations such as extending eligibility for free school meals, funding holiday activities and food programme for the next three years, expanding the healthy start scheme."]
Food Security
21 March 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
School Attendance (Support and Guidance) Bill - Clause 1 & Clause 2
02 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the bill to ensure all schools, trusts, local authorities follow best practice guidance on school attendance. It makes it mandatory for bodies to adhere to the detailed guidance published by the...
Terminal Illness (Support for Terminally Ill Recipients of Occupational Pensions) Bill - Clause 1
02 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to extend the definition of 'terminally ill' from six months to twelve months for recipients of occupational pensions whose pension schemes have become insolvent. This change will ...
The Offshore Petroleum Licensing Bill
22 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the bill, emphasising Britain's commitment to reducing emissions while supporting energy security and economic growth. The amendment seeks annual licensing of oil and gas production in UK waters...
Building Societies (Amendment) Bill - The entire bill for Second Reading
19 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill aims to amend the Building Societies Act 1986 by introducing flexibility in funding sources and modernising governance, enabling building societies to compete more fairly with banks. It will ...
Hugh’s Bill (Financial Support for Parents of Children in Hospital) - Clause 1: Report on merits of providing financial support to parents of children receiving care in hospital for extended periods
19 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill aims to require the Secretary of State to report to Parliament on the merits of providing financial support to parents whose children are hospitalized for an extended period. The proposal ste...
Pet Theft Bill - Clause on Dog and Cat Abduction
19 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to amend the existing legislation to criminalise pet abduction specifically for cats and dogs, recognising them as sentient beings rather than mere property. Argues that current laws inadequatel...
Illegal Migration
24 October 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Artificial Intelligence
29 June 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
AI's impact is already significant, but its future potential remains largely untapped. The debate aims to address the balance between regulation and innovation, highlighting both opportunities and ris...
Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
23 March 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
6
PMQs Asked
32
Ministerial Questions Asked
83
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+139% above average
This MP:
32
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1608% above average
This MP:
83
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Jo Gideon's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.