Joe Morris
MP for Hexham
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Prudhoe community high school in my constituency was forced to relocate to Washington after its just over eight-year-old building, built under the previous Government, was found to have cracks in the infrastructure. This incredibly distressing news has required huge resilience and strength from the local community. Will my right hon. Friend join me in paying tribute to the staff, the parents and, most importantly, the students at Prudhoe community high school, and in commending them for their hard work and dedication during this incredibly destabilising time?
Context
The MP seeks to pay tribute to the staff, parents, and students at Prudhoe Community High School for their resilience and dedication during a difficult time.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Angela Rayner)
I join my hon. Friend in paying tribute to all those involved with Prudhoe community high school for their resilience and dedication during such a challenging time. The support from the local community has been remarkable, and it is heartening to see everyone pulling together to ensure that students can continue to receive a quality education despite these difficulties.
Session: PMQs
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In my constituency of Hexham, frightened parents and families are having to fight tooth and nail and to travel extremely long distances to secure fair treatment and full education for their children. Will the Prime Minister outline steps that the Government will take to improve outcomes and results for children with special educational needs and disabilities, particularly those in the most rural parts of the north-east?
Context
Parents in Hexham have to fight tooth and nail to secure fair treatment and full education for their children with special educational needs and disabilities. The MP is seeking government steps to improve outcomes.
Keir Starmer
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. This reinforces the point that the SEND provisions were a failure of the previous Government, particularly in rural communities. The issue is felt by Members on both sides of the House. It is really important and we have a duty now to pick it up and ensure that all children with SEND receive the right support to succeed in their education, and we will continue to do so.
Assessment
The answer acknowledges the issue but does not provide specific steps or commitments to address it.
Session: PMQs
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I welcomed the announcement about reforming procurement to benefit British businesses. I met farmers in Northumberland who felt previous reforms did not benefit them as they hoped. Will the Minister join me on a visit to a local farm to discuss how procurement can benefit British farmers?
Context
During his constituency tour, Morris met with farmers who felt previous procurement reforms did not benefit them adequately.
Mark Ferguson
I commend my hon. Friend for his remarkable stamina over the summer, with more than 80 visits across his constituency—the largest in England. He is certainly a passionate campaigner for farmers. He will know that our recently announced reforms to social value mean that businesses bidding for Government contracts—a market worth £90 billion—will be rightly judged on whether they create high-quality jobs, skills and apprenticeships in local communities. That includes food procurement, and our aim is for at least half of all public sector food to be produced locally. I will gladly join him and one of his local farmers to talk about that further.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-10
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Will the Minister meet me to discuss the need for a smart export guarantee and greater support for community energy power-purchasing agreements?
Context
The Northumberland solar-powered community buildings project is an example of innovative use of renewable energy in remote communities.
Michael Shanks
The Minister would be happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss exciting community energy projects in their area, focusing on investment and regulation reform to enable local power sales and profit retention by communities.
Session: Community-owned Renewable Energy 2026-07-07
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of community-owned renewable energy on energy security?
Context
Community-owned renewable energy projects are gaining momentum and have the potential to enhance national energy security.
Michael Shanks
We are committed to seeing much more community energy across Britain through the local power plan, which will support over 1,000 local and community energy projects by 2030 with £1 billion of investment. Ownership matters to this Government.
Session: Community-owned Renewable Energy 2026-07-07
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The effects on farmers and food standards are some of the most visible and felt impacts of trade policy, and obviously domestic agriculture is one of our sectors that are most sensitive to import shocks. Does the Minister agree that transition periods are vital when the Government are negotiating international trade agreements? Will he commit to making sure that the farming sector is properly consulted on implementation and transition periods for any agreement that is made, and particularly the sanitary and phytosanitary agreement, and will he work across Government on that?
Context
Concerns about the impact of trade agreements on farmers, specifically regarding consultation processes and the necessity of transition periods.
Chris Bryant
I commend my hon. Friend—since he has been in the House he has raised lots of issues on behalf of the farming sector in his constituency. Some of those are issues that need to come directly to Ministers, so that we can take action on them, and this is one of them. We are very keen to make sure that the SPS agreement is negotiated in a way that really works for farmers in the UK, but I would also apply that to any free trade agreement we were to sign up to.
Session: Farming Sector International Trade 2026-07-02
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What steps he is taking through international trade policies to help increase the financial sustainability of the farming sector?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the impact of international trade policies on UK farmers' financial stability.
Chris Bryant
When it comes to international deals, we regularly fight determinedly for the farming sector and the wider food and beverage sector. Sometimes that means defending our UK farming and food standards, but just as often, we are able to secure significant advances; for instance, we have managed to secure increased access for British beef in the United States of America, for lamb and salmon in India, and for lamb and beef in the Gulf.
Session: Farming Sector International Trade 2026-07-02
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The MP expressed concern about mass eviction of his elderly constituents and requested support from the Minister to prevent rural communities being victimised by these practices. He asked for a meeting to discuss this issue further.
Context
The tenants of an estate near Haltwhistle received section 21 notices a week before the Renters' Rights Act 2025 came into effect.
Matthew Pennycook
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter. I appreciate fully his concern about the potential mass eviction of his constituents. It is precisely so that private tenants can enjoy greater security, including the growing number of older people who now rent their homes, that we abolished section 21 no-fault evictions. I am happy to meet him to discuss the case further and what more support we might provide.
Session: Topical Questions
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I could reel off countless examples of villages in my constituency where hard-to-reach areas simply have no broadband at all, let alone fibre broadband. Constituents and businesses are tearing their hair out. At what point will the Government possibly accept that if the millions—if not billions—of pounds are to reach those hard-to-reach places, it would probably be better to help those people to get, for instance, satellite broadband instead, so that they can have access to the internet now rather than having to wait for years?
Context
Constituents in rural areas are frustrated by lack of broadband access and seeking immediate solutions.
Ian Murray
I am happy for the hon. Gentleman also to meet representatives of BDUK and the Minister for Digital Economy. He is absolutely right; while there will continue to be gaps for the very hardest-to-reach places, there are solutions out there, like wireless solutions, fixed-wireless access and, indeed, satellite broadband, which BDUK is examining now.
Session: Rural Broadband
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Yesterday I spoke to my constituent Luca, who has spent months campaigning for the investment that is needed to secure a reliable internet and phone connection for his community in the village of Lambley. He has been pushed from pillar to post between private companies, national agencies and local government, and meanwhile the residents of Lambley continue to live without effective internet connection. The solutions depend on funding and co-operation, which are challenging owing to the location and the lack of accountability. Will the Minister meet representatives of Coanwood parish council, Luca and me to try to find a way forward for Lambley and other rural communities?
Context
Constituents face months-long delays and lack of accountability for broadband installation. Specific mention of Lambley village lacking reliable internet.
Ian Murray
I am happy for that to be arranged with Luca, the parish council and my hon. Friend, along with officials from Building Digital UK, so that we can explore the solutions that are possible for his constituents. The Minister for Digital Economy, who sits in the other place, will be holding a surgery for Members of this House on 14 April, and I think my hon. Friend should go along and discuss these issues with her as well.
Session: Rural Broadband
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I first thank everyone at Albemarle barracks for hosting me recently and showing me the facility. The Royal British Legion women’s network offers valuable support for the armed forces community, and it is vital that all members and relatives of that community can access it. In rural areas like in my constituency where access to that support is often harder to reach, it is more important that the Government do all they can to support veterans who may be further from the centre. What is the Government doing to ensure that veterans, including female veterans, in rural areas can receive the support they need? May I invite the Minister to join me to visit Prudhoe veterans breakfast club at some point in 2026?
Context
The Royal British Legion women’s network offers support to the armed forces community, but access is harder in rural areas where many veterans reside. The Member invites the Minister to visit a local veterans breakfast club.
The Minister for Veterans and People (Louise Sandher-Jones)
My hon. Friend raises an important point. We are rolling out the Valour programme, which includes a network of regional centres. There will also be an online presence to help ensure that we can expand the reach where possible. I would be delighted to come and visit.
Session: Women Veterans
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I thank the Foreign Secretary for her response. I am very concerned about recent reports that over 1,000 tents that were consigned were prevented from entering Gaza. Can she assure me that we are doing whatever we can to get this aid from the UK—tents to provide shelter as winter approaches—through the border to those who need it the most?
Context
Concerns about delays in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, including reports of tents being prevented from entering the territory.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. We are continuing to press to get increased humanitarian aid in. The level of aid is increasing, and as we have seen, we have been able to get the UK-funded tents into Gaza. However, I have seen some of the warehouses in Amman that still hold UK-funded aid—wheat that could feed hundreds of thousands of people—that we need to get into Gaza, which is why we need all the crossings opened.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Situation
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In 2024-25, Northumberland domestic abuse services supported 555 adult survivors of domestic abuse and responded to thousands of domestic abuse incidents. Sadly, many of those incidents involved children. Will the Solicitor General meet me and Sharon Brown from NDAS—who is sat in the Public Gallery—to discuss steps for improving support for victims of domestic abuse in rural areas?
Context
Northumberland domestic abuse services supported 555 adult survivors of domestic abuse in 2024-25, with many incidents involving children. The MP mentions Sharon Brown from NDAS who is sitting in the Public Gallery.
The Solicitor General
My hon. Friend’s question provides another example of the enormously important work that organisations such as NDAS do to support survivors of domestic abuse. I welcome Sharon to the Gallery today, and pay tribute to her and her colleagues. I would be delighted to meet her and my hon. Friend to discuss what more can be done to support victims in rural areas, particularly with our CPS colleagues.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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For too long, previous Governments did not take into account the realities of life in communities across my constituency, which is incredibly sparsely populated and quite rural. The youth guarantee can and will make a considerable difference in communities all across it, from the Tyne Valley all the way out to the north Tyne and into Callerton and Throckley, too. Will the Secretary of State work with me to ensure that we continue to support young people in all those different, disparate communities to access the skills and opportunities they deserve?
Context
The question addresses the Labour Government's efforts to support young people in Hexham constituency who are not in education, employment or training. The MP highlights the specific needs of a sparsely populated and rural community.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Liz Kendall)
My hon. Friend is right that people have different needs in different parts of the country. We need to tailor employment support to the needs of individuals, so alongside measures like our youth guarantee, we are overhauling our jobcentres to provide that more personalised support and introducing measures such as mobile jobcentres to provide better help in rural areas.
Session: Supporting Young People into Training Hexham
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Recently, the town of Prudhoe was shocked when Islamophobic graffiti was found on a building. Such graffiti has no place in Prudhoe, my constituency, Northumberland or this country. Can the Home Secretary assure me that upholding the safety and security of everyone in rural communities, no matter where they are from or what their background, is of the utmost importance to this Government?
Context
The town of Prudhoe was recently shocked by Islamophobic graffiti found on a building, prompting concerns about hate crime and community safety.
Yvette Cooper
My hon. Friend is right. That sort of graffiti and serious hate crime divides communities and needs to be taken seriously by police across the country. It is one of the reasons we are strengthening the law to give the police stronger powers to prevent intimidating protests around not just synagogues but mosques.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am pleased that the agreement secured with our largest trading partner, the European Union, will make it easier for food and drink to be imported and exported. Will the Secretary of State assure me and my constituents that all future conversations with trading partners will continue to prioritise high welfare standards and food standards on both sides of the Irish sea?
Context
The UK and EU announced a new trade agreement on May 19, 2025. This agreement is expected to affect various sectors in the UK, including Northern Ireland's economy.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I can happily give my hon. Friend that assurance. He will have noticed how in another context—the trade agreement reached with the United States of America—we said that we would uphold our food standards in that agreement, and that is exactly what we have done.
Session: EU Trade Agreement Economic Impact
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Given that as many as 35,000 Ukrainian children are still missing and are probably being held in occupied territory or in Russia, will the Minister assure us that the Government are not only taking action to help injured soldiers in Ukraine back on to the frontline, but doing all that they can to support the reunion of Ukrainian children with their families?
Context
Concern about the fate of missing Ukrainian children in occupied territories or Russia and their need for support.
Luke Pollard
We are proud to be investing in Operation Renovator, our contribution to helping injured Ukrainian soldiers to recover and return to the fight to guarantee the safety of their nation, and we will continue to support that operation and our Ukrainian friends for as long as it takes.
Session: Topical Questions
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For some families of victims, further review of release decisions can provide some solace, but it cannot do so for my constituent Doreen Soulsby. Her daughter’s murderer was released before the Victims and Courts Bill passed through this place. Will the Minister meet Doreen and me to discuss clause 61 of the Bill and the release of life prisoners?
Context
A constituent's family faced the issue of a murderer being released before the Victims and Courts Bill passed through parliament.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
Yes, of course. As my hon. Friend knows, I have had a strong bond with Doreen for many years. Of course I would be delighted to meet him and her.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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What steps her Department is taking to help tackle violence against women and girls?
Context
N/A
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
We are already taking significant steps to make sure that violence against women and girls is treated as the national emergency that it is. That includes launching our domestic abuse protection orders, and investing almost £20 million this year in specialist services for victims and in projects to help prevent VAWG and improve our response to it. Later this year, we will publish our cross-Government VAWG strategy, which will set out our long-term plan to tackle the crisis.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Over the weekend, a drone attack was launched targeting a number of regions, including Kyiv. It was arguably the biggest drone strike since the full-scale invasion began. While I am pleased that significant headway has been made between Russia and Ukraine regarding a possible prisoner swap, does the Minister agree that the Government must continue to urge for a wholesale ceasefire to ensure that no more civilian lives are lost?
Context
A drone attack targeted Kyiv over the weekend, raising concerns about ongoing civilian casualties.
Luke Pollard (The Minister for the Armed Forces)
A sustained, unconditional ceasefire is the quickest way to stop the killing while creating the space for serious talks to achieve a lasting peace. President Zelensky has consistently shown his commitment to peace. Putin has refused to meet Zelensky in person while continuing barbaric attacks on the Ukrainian people.
Session: Topical Questions
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Reliable bus services are not just a privilege; they are the backbone of communities across my constituency, and connect individuals to schools, jobs, financial services and social interactions with family and friends. Rural communities in Northumberland deserve the same opportunities as our more urban regions. Does the Minister agree that as the Government’s better buses Bill proceeds to its further stages, we must not overlook rural voices on the services that they need?
Context
The MP emphasizes the importance of reliable and accessible public transport, particularly buses in rural areas.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
Improving bus connectivity in rural areas is vital for kick-starting growth. Our Bus Services (No. 2) Bill will give local leaders the powers they need for their communities, including in Northumberland, which as part of the North East combined authority was allocated £23 million in 2025-26 to improve services.
Session: Topical Questions
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Joe Morris highlighted the looming famine in Gaza caused by the deterioration of the ceasefire agreement, stating that over 2 million people face catastrophic hunger levels. He asked for assurance from the Minister about supporting every possible opportunity to get vital resources and humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Context
The deterioration of the ceasefire agreement is causing a looming famine, putting the entire population at risk of food insecurity and potential famine. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating rapidly.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
I can give my hon. Friend that assurance. We are doing everything we can to ensure that aid gets in, hostages are released, Hamas is no longer in charge of Gaza, and a ceasefire leading to a two-state solution is achieved.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Situation
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At the end of January, 14,000 people were still on Northumberland county council’s social housing waiting list, yet hundreds of properties right across the county, including in rural Allendale, remain empty. Given the number of people on the housing list and in desperate need of accommodation, it is a disgrace that the Conservative administration has left them empty for so long. Does the Minister agree that a Labour council, backed by a Labour Government, will do much more to get people off the housing list and into homes?
Context
The MP is concerned about a large number of people on Northumberland county council’s social housing waiting list and hundreds of empty properties in the area.
Matthew Pennycook (The Minister for Housing and Planning)
Local authorities already have a range of powers to bring empty homes back into use, but I am more than happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss this specific issue in more detail.
Session: Topical Questions
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I pay tribute to the Minister for the work being done. Although that work is welcome, we need to direct our attention towards ensuring that police have the necessary technical tools to investigate reports. Will she meet me to discuss what further action can be taken to address and prevent intimate image abuse in all our communities?
Context
The MP is concerned about the measures taken to tackle intimate image abuse, specifically focusing on ensuring that police have the necessary technical tools for investigation.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones)
I will happily meet my hon. Friend. We are launching within policing our national centre for violence against women and girls and public protection—that includes a £2 million funding settlement to target violence against women and girls better, including online—and in November, we launched our domestic abuse protection orders in selected areas to improve protection for victims of all kinds of domestic abuse, including online. The police are also able to use stalking protection orders to protect victims of online abuse.
Session: Intimate Image Abuse
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The Gaza ceasefire deal remains fragile and, as we enter the final week of its first phase, it is crucial that both the Israeli and Palestinian Governments continue to uphold the agreement and reunite families with dignity. Will the Minister assure me that this Government will continue to support the ceasefire deal into its remaining stages and work with international partners such as Jordan and Egypt to secure a lasting peace?
Context
The question pertains to the ongoing ceasefire deal in Gaza and its future phases.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
I can confirm that we will continue to support the ceasefire deal through all three of its phases, which we hope to see concluded in full. I am working with international partners, as are other Ministers; I saw the Jordanian and Egyptian ambassadors on this question just last week.
Session: Topical Questions
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For those in villages such as Slaggyford, Kirkhaugh and Mohope, the cottage hospital in Alston is closer than the hospital in Hexham. As my constituent Rowland outlined to me, despite that proximity, ambulance services find themselves restricted by county borders. Rural constituents’ access to healthcare and rapid response services are suffering as a result. Will the Minister meet me to discuss ambulance services in rural areas?
Stephen Kinnock
I holidayed in my hon. Friend’s constituency this summer—it is a very beautiful part of the world—so I understand some of the rural challenges. It is a matter for local integrated care boards how they organise ambulance services. There are many problems that we want to resolve, and I would of course be very happy to meet him.
Session: Topical Questions
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The whole House will be aware of the importance of the Tyne Valley railway line to my constituency, and it is essential that our stations are accessible to all. Local campaigners such as Active Travel Tynedale and Rosanna Lovett have expressed their frustration at the inaccessibility of stations across our constituency. Will the Minister join me in commending their work to make travel truly accessible?
Context
Local campaigners, including Active Travel Tynedale and Rosanna Lovett, have expressed frustration at the inaccessibility of train stations across Joe Morris's constituency. The issue concerns the importance of the Tyne Valley railway line to his area.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
I join my hon. Friend in commending that work. I know the Tyne Valley line very well; it is in a beautiful part of the country. It is important that the rail network is accessible for all passengers, and that is at the heart of our approach. I will ensure Ministers at the Department for Transport look into the case that he raises and provide more information about the actions that are being taken for his constituents.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am frequently contacted by businesses in my constituency who are deeply concerned about the trade barriers put up by the previous Government that are damaging growth in the north-east. May I urge my right hon. Friend in the strongest possible terms to prioritise pragmatism in our relations with the EU and to ensure that businesses in my part of the country can get the support they need and export the goods they manufacture?
Context
The MP mentions businesses in his constituency are concerned about trade barriers.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (The Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
My hon. Friend raises a good point. Of course, we set out in our manifesto that we would not return to the single market, to the customs union or to freedom of movement. Within that framework, we absolutely take a pragmatic approach, putting the national interest first to tear down trade barriers wherever we can.
Session: Relations with the EU
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When I speak to small businesses in my constituency of Hexham, they regularly decry an inability to recruit young people from the area who want to remain there. Will the Secretary of State assure me that we will be working with small and medium-sized businesses to ensure that young people can remain where they grew up if they wish?
Context
Small businesses in Hexham face challenges recruiting young people from the area.
Bridget Phillipson
We are creating Skills England to fill the skills gaps we see across our country. Skills England will also work with our regional mayors to ensure that we address some of the regional inequalities we see, as well as some of the opportunity areas.
Session: Skills Training
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I am regularly contacted by constituents of mine who are concerned about delays and cancellations on the Tyne Valley line. Will the Secretary of State meet me to discuss delays and improvements to that line?
Context
Delays and cancellations on the Tyne Valley line are a concern for Hexham constituents.
Louise Haigh
My hon. Friend is right that Northern rail services on that line are very poor. That is exactly what we are addressing through continued negotiation on rest-day working agreements. My noble Friend the Rail Minister will be happy to meet him.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that reaching our clean power mission will bring down bills permanently? Is there a need to go as far and fast as possible towards achieving it by 2030?
Context
A report suggests that achieving clean power by 2030 is possible, leading to lower bills. The question asks for confirmation on the feasibility and urgency of this mission.
Michael Shanks
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. The report published by the independent National Energy System Operator laid out not only that reaching our clean power mission is entirely achievable, but that it will bring down bills. The importance of the report is that it set the course for how that is possible.
Session: Clean Energy by 2030
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What progress has been made on achieving clean power by 2030? This includes setting up Great British Energy, announcing headquarters in Aberdeen, securing record-breaking 131 renewables projects, and consenting to record amounts of solar.
Context
The question follows the announcement of Great British Energy and its headquarters in Aberdeen, along with several renewables projects. It asks about further progress towards achieving clean energy.
Michael Shanks
In just four short months, we have made rapid progress on achieving our mission for clean power by 2030. We have set up Great British Energy and announced its headquarters in Aberdeen, secured a record-breaking 131 renewables projects, and consented to record amounts of solar.
Session: Clean Energy by 2030
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How will the industrial strategy allow rural communities to share in the proceeds of growth?
Context
The question follows concerns over rural communities being neglected for years and the need to ensure they benefit from growth.
Sarah Jones
The Government believes that growth needs to be felt in communities, not just measured. The industrial strategy is designed and implemented alongside local leaders, mayors, and devolved leaders across the country.
Session: Industrial Strategy
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What recent progress has been made on developing a new industrial strategy?
Context
The question arises from a need for development and improvement of the new industrial strategy.
Sarah Jones
We have published a Green Paper on 14 October setting out our plans for a modern industrial strategy. This involves working with business and colleagues across the nations to deliver certainty, drive, and ambition needed for investment in the UK.
Session: Industrial Strategy
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In Hexham, Prudhoe and Throckley, people saw hardly any improvements to their incomes for over 14 years. Surely tomorrow's Budget must reset economic foundations. What steps will the Government take?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the living standard decline under the previous government in his constituency.
Rachel Reeves
Tomorrow's Budget is an opportunity to fix the worst-ever recorded living standards and start delivering for families in Hexham and all around the country.
Session: Living Standards
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Will the Minister work with the Department for Transport to ensure that Great British Railways puts disabled access at the heart of its plans?
Context
The questioner raises concerns about accessing rail stations in Hexham, especially for disabled individuals.
Stephen Timms
Yes, we will. Accessibility is at the heart of the Government's passenger-focused approach, and with a unified rail network, we will be able to meet accessibility needs more reliably and consistently and plan how best to improve accessibility across the entire network.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does she agree that often the very poorest in our communities are forced to live in cold and draughty properties, and it is important that we cut bills and give those families energy security?
Context
The MP highlights the issue of fuel poverty among tenants in private rented properties, particularly those living in cold and draughty homes.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
I agree. One in four households in the private rented sector is in fuel poverty. We need to bear down on bills. Our commitment to improve and boost minimum energy efficiency standards will lift 1 million renters out of fuel poverty.
Session: Warm Homes Plan
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Will the Secretary of State or one of her Ministers meet with me to discuss the challenges of accessing SEND education in such a rural constituency?
Context
People in Hexham face significant challenges in enabling their children to access the support they need and are entitled to.
Bridget Phillipson
I would be more than happy to meet with him—or my hon. Friend the Minister for School Standards will meet with him—to discuss this important concern.
Session: SEND Provision
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What assessment she has made of the adequacy of the provision of SEND services. Does she commit to listening to and working with families to deliver reform?
Context
The government's provision of SEND services has been criticised for not working adequately for many children and families.
Bridget Phillipson
The Conservatives left a trail of devastation across education. The system is not working for many children and families. I give my personal commitment to hon. Members that the Government will listen to and work with families to deliver reform, improving inclusivity in mainstream schools and ensuring special schools are able to help those with complex needs.
Session: SEND Provision
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Tourism: Northumberland
19 November 2024
Responding: Chris Bryant
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the disparity in tourism numbers and spending between Northumberland and London. He mentions that while Northumberland has a rich history, with attractions like Hadrian's Wall and Vindolanda, it still lags behind other regions in tourist visits and spending. The constituency also faces challenges such as road congestion during peak times, preservation of historical sites under threat from climate change, and skills shortages affecting the hospitality sector."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks for increased investment in transport infrastructure to handle an influx of tourists without disrupting local residents. He advocates for better funding for heritage protection and collaboration with organisations like Visit Northumberland to promote the region internationally. The Government should also support initiatives that address skills shortages, such as apprenticeships and educational reforms.']
School Transport: Northumberland — [Carolyn Harris in the Chair]
12 November 2024
Responding: Catherine McKinnell
Main Concerns
["The future of school transport is a pressing concern affecting constituents in Hexham and Northumberland. Families, students, and teachers face issues such as lateness marks due to delayed buses, inconsistent allocation of transport places for siblings within the same family, and safety concerns on busy roads like A69. There are significant delays on routes like the 685 bus, with one constituent's child missing up to two hours of school daily despite being just a 14-minute journey from home. The system also struggles to provide consistent results for families and lacks adequate support for students with special educational needs (SEND) who must travel long distances to access appropriate education."]
Specific Asks
['The government should address inconsistencies in allocating transport places, improve bus routes reliability, enhance safety measures on major roads, and increase SEND provision closer to home communities. The Minister is also urged to support families by providing clearer guidance on transport eligibility for children with special needs.']
Sheep Farming — [Dr Rupa Huq in the Chair]
04 September 2024
Responding: Daniel Zeichner
Main Concerns
['Farmers in Northumberland expressed concerns about a hierarchy of land use that prioritizes non-food production, leading to perfectly farmable land being taken away by companies seeking subsidies. Farmers are also worried about the betrayal from the previous government and its damaging trade deals with Australia and New Zealand. Tenant farmers suffer from spiking energy bills and food costs, impacting their ability to make farm financing work. High rainfall this year has caused traumatic lambing seasons with high losses due to persistent rain and cold conditions.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should look at the Rock review carefully to identify implementable changes for tenant farmers and support families like the Johnsons as they venture into new ways of managing their land and livestock. The Minister should also reform the Groceries Code Adjudicator to reassure producers that this government stands on their side.']
Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Bill - New Clause 116
02 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I propose New Clause 116 to introduce a cap on donations from overseas contributors to political parties and candidates. This measure is necessary to ensure the integrity of our democratic process and...
Foreign Interference in UK Politics
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Media Green Paper
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East
09 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lebanon: Israel Defence Forces Operations
03 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs to make a statement on the Israel Defence Forces’ operations in Lebanon. Emphasised that the IDF is expanding its i...
Heating Oil Support
16 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Power Plan
10 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief 2026-01-05
05 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm the changes to agricultural property relief and business property relief, explain why a U-turn was necessary after significant opposition from farmers and rural communities, ...
Iconic Trees and Nature Education 2025-12-01
01 December 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
Calls for a register of iconic trees to be established, highlighting the cultural significance of the Sycamore Gap tree. Proposes legislation to designate and protect these trees, review nature educat...
Attendance
77.6%
76 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
28
28.6% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
22
22.4% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
2
PMQs Asked
37
Ministerial Questions Asked
57
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-45% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+176% above average
This MP:
37
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1073% above average
This MP:
57
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 (%)
+12% above average
This MP:
77.6
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 Joe Morris's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.