Johanna Baxter
MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
My constituent and Scottish football superfan Craig Ferguson has just returned home after walking for 108 days across 3,000 miles in the United States to raise funds for Scottish Action for Mental Health. He has raised over £1 million. I know this is an issue that the Prime Minister cares about very deeply, and I thank him for his leadership. Will he join me in congratulating Craig and everyone who supported his actions to raise money for mental health?
Context
A constituent, Craig Ferguson, walked across the United States to raise funds for Scottish Action for Mental Health and raised over £1 million.
Keir Starmer
I join my hon. Friend in paying tribute to Craig. I believe there is a famous Scottish song about walking 500 miles and then another 500, but to surpass that is an amazing achievement. We all pay tribute.
Assessment
The MP asked for the PM's congratulations on raising funds for mental health, but received a general statement of appreciation without specifically acknowledging Craig Ferguson's efforts.
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs 2026-07-15
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In Paisley and Renfrewshire South, the SNP-led Renfrewshire council has sat on its hands while the owners of the Paisley Centre seek support to transform the town centre. Does the Prime Minister agree that it is only the SNP’s lack of ambition and failure of leadership that is letting Paisley down, and will he work with me to restore pride in Paisley town centre?
Context
The SNP-led Renfrewshire council is criticised for its lack of action regarding the development of the Paisley Centre, despite planning permission being granted several years ago.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
My hon. Friend is a superb champion for Paisley. Her constituents deserve a Scottish Government who match her dedication. For our part, we have delivered a record funding settlement. We are investing £280 million in Pride in Place across 14 Scottish communities. We have secured shipbuilding on the Clyde for over a decade and have just announced an AI growth zone in Lanarkshire.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not directly commit to working with the MP or provide specifics about restoring pride in Paisley town centre.
Session: PMQs
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Adrian Howe was a successful and dedicated Vodafone store manager for over 20 years. In 2017 he was offered the opportunity to take on a franchise for one of their thriving stores, but the goalposts changed and he was forced to take on a struggling store. Just days before he was due to open that store, Adrian stepped into a lake and did not ever return home. Adrian’s wife and widow, my constituent Tracey, wonders if the Prime Minister will review franchising legislation to ensure that there is a balance of power between companies and their franchises, so that nobody else feels undue pressure when they take on a franchise.
Context
Adrian Howe, a dedicated Vodafone store manager for over two decades, was offered the opportunity to take on a franchise for one of their thriving stores but was instead given a struggling store. Just days before he was due to open that store, Adrian Howe tragically died.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank my hon. Friend for her question. I think I speak for the whole House in saying that I am deeply sorry to hear about that tragic case, and all our thoughts are with the family. There is a live legal case that I cannot comment on, but I can reassure my hon. Friend that we will look closely at its final outcome. There are strong rules in place, but we will look at the outcome to see whether there is more that can be done.
Session: PMQs
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that unless we have women shaping this technology, it will continue not to deliver for women? Can she outline Government plans to address those biases while encouraging more women in Paisley and Renfrewshire South to join the sector?
Context
Evidence suggests AI tools used in recruitment often favour male names almost five times more than female names, and AI models built to prevent liver disease are twice as likely to miss the disease in women. The question seeks Government plans to address these biases while encouraging more women to join the tech sector.
Liz Kendall
My hon. Friend is correct that bias highlights the need for more women building technology. We want more women in tech, which is why we launched the women in tech taskforce and will publish its call for evidence results next week. We are launching a new tech first girls programme for 12 and 13 year olds and providing minimum six-month placements to advance women's careers.
Session: Women in Tech Taskforce 2026-07-01
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What assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the women in tech taskforce on levels of diversity in the technology sector? Our economy loses around £3.5 billion annually because women leave or change jobs within the tech sector due to barriers that should not exist. This impacts both women and the tech sector, which misses out on skills and talent.
Context
The question addresses the potential impact of the women in tech taskforce on levels of diversity in the technology sector, referencing a £3.5 billion annual loss due to gender barriers.
Liz Kendall
Our economy loses £3.5 billion annually due to barriers preventing women's advancement in tech, impacting both women and the sector's potential. The women in tech taskforce is addressing these systematic barriers by publishing call for evidence results next week, launching a new tech first girls programme for 12 and 13 year olds, providing minimum six-month placements for career advancement, and ensuring Government Departments help software developers return to work after an absence of up to 18 months.
Session: Women in Tech Taskforce 2026-07-01
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The Barnett formula delivers greatly to my constituency. Since the government's election, there has been the highest uplift in funding for the Scottish Government ever recorded. Does my right hon. Friend agree that this mechanism ensures a fair share of public spending? Can he confirm it will continue?
Context
Since the current government was elected, the Barnett formula has seen a record-breaking increase in funding for Scotland. This is important for constituents of Paisley and Renfrewshire South.
Darren Jones
The Barnett formula plays an important role in ensuring fairness across all UK nations. However, the Scottish Government must spend funds effectively; they have failed to do so under SNP leadership.
Session: Topical Questions
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A very happy birthday to you, Mr Speaker. Last week we heard the very disappointing news that the principal investor in the Paisley Centre redevelopment project in my constituency has been forced to withdraw from the project after years of delays and uncertainty. I have repeatedly warned that continued delays would put this project at risk, and it is deeply frustrating that those fears have been realised without, apparently, the SNP-led Renfrewshire council having any back-up plan. Will my right hon. Friend agree to meet me, along with local elected representatives and members of the Scottish Government, to see what we can do to get the project moving?
Context
The principal investor in the Paisley Centre redevelopment project has withdrawn due to years of delays, highlighting the lack of a back-up plan from the SNP-led council. The questioner seeks urgent action and collaboration.
Douglas Alexander
I know better than most the limitations of an SNP-led Renfrewshire council, and I applaud my hon. Friend's efforts to bring this initiative to the fore. As the UK Government Minister responsible for local growth in Scotland, the Under-Secretary of State for Scotland, my hon. Friend the Member for Midlothian (Kirsty McNeill), would be pleased to meet her to discuss how we can work with the council to deliver a vibrant and strong future for the town.
Session: Economic Growth Paisley and Renfrewshire South
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What steps he is taking to support economic growth in Paisley and Renfrewshire South constituency. The Government are committed to boosting Scotland's regional economies, including that of my former constituency of Paisley and Renfrewshire South. The Paisley and Renfrewshire economy will benefit from £39 million of city deal project funding aimed at Clyde waterfront connectivity.
Context
The question arises from the government's efforts to boost regional economies, focusing on specific funding for the Clyde waterfront connectivity project in Paisley and Renfrewshire.
Douglas Alexander
The Government are committed to boosting Scotland's regional economies, including that of my former constituency of Paisley and Renfrewshire South. The Paisley and Renfrewshire economy will benefit from £39 million of city deal project funding aimed at Clyde waterfront connectivity. The project is predicted to deliver up to 1,400 jobs and attract £230 million in private sector investment.
Session: Economic Growth Paisley and Renfrewshire South
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A happy St George’s day to you, Mr Speaker. Global turbulence has driven up the cost of living for my constituents. Can the Minister set out how closening trading ties with our closest allies through the EU reset will help bring down prices for my constituents?
Nick Thomas-Symonds
That is why the EU-UK reset is so important, as it will help us in bearing down on fuel bills and energy bills, which will help my hon. Friend’s constituents.
Session: Topical Questions
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The verified number of Ukrainian children stolen by Russia has increased to 20,570. A report by the Yale Humanitarian Research Laboratory found that Rosneft and Gazprom have been implicated in the forcible deportation and re-education of at least 2,158 of those children over the past two years. Will the Secretary of State review and fully investigate these findings and consider further sanctions?
Context
A report by the Yale Humanitarian Research Laboratory found that Rosneft and Gazprom have been implicated in the forcible deportation and re-education of at least 2,158 Ukrainian children over the past two years.
Stephen Doughty
As ever, my hon. Friend is right to raise this crucial issue. I was very privileged to see for myself the incredible work that we are supporting to trace what has happened to those Ukrainian children. The figure she has cited is correct and it is absolutely appalling. I am very proud of the work that we are doing with other countries on that issue, and I will certainly look at the issues she has raised. Of course, we have already taken action against the oil companies she mentioned.
Session: Russian Federation Financial Pressure
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Last week, the United Nations independent international commission of inquiry on Ukraine concluded that Russia has been committing crimes against humanity in the forcible deportation of Ukrainian children. Last night, the film “Mr Nobody Against Putin” won best documentary feature at the Oscars for exposing how Russia seeks to turn Ukrainian children into Russian soldiers. Will my right hon. Friend outline what further work he is undertaking with colleagues in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to ensure that children are not used as weapons of war?
Context
The United Nations independent international commission of inquiry on Ukraine concluded that Russia has committed crimes against humanity in forcibly deporting Ukrainian children.
John Healey
First, on behalf of the House may I congratulate my hon. Friend on receiving in Ukraine earlier this month the presidential Order of Merit for her work on this area? We are supporting a new tracing mechanism being used in Ukraine, and since September it has already identified an extra 600 children stolen by the Russians and forcibly held, and attempted indoctrination of the exact kind that my hon. Friend is campaigning against.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last year, the SNP Government in Holyrood funded nearly 9,000 fewer apprenticeships than colleges and industry asked for. Youth unemployment in Scotland is rising; more than one in eight young people are unemployed. Does my right hon. Friend agree that one of the solutions to this problem is electing a new Government in Holyrood under Anas Sarwar of the Labour party?
Context
The MP discussed the SNP Government's reduction in funded apprenticeships and rising youth unemployment in Scotland. She suggested that electing a new Government in Holyrood could be a solution.
Pat McFadden
I very much agree with my hon. Friend's final point. I think Anas Sarwar would make an excellent First Minister, and I look forward to supporting him in the campaign to come. We want young people in Scotland to have as many opportunities and as good opportunities as young people anywhere else in the UK.
Session: Unemployment Scotland
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What steps is my right hon. Friend taking to work with colleagues to improve access to justice for victims of rape and serious sexual assault and to implement the Government's strategy on violence against women and girls?
Context
The Government’s strategy sets out measures to tackle grooming gangs and support victims of sexual abuse.
Ellie Reeves (Solicitor General)
I am proud to sit on these Benches alongside my hon. Friend. Last week I announced the expansion of the victims’ right to review pilot, which will ensure that victims have a second chance for justice, with a second prosecutor reviewing a case before it is dropped by the CPS.
Session: Grooming Gangs
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Pet owners have been facing rising vet costs for years, and the recent BBC 'Panorama' programme revealed that some vets felt pressured into upselling unnecessary treatments. My constituents were shocked and appalled by these revelations. Can she assure the House that the consultation on reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act will bring in not only much-needed reforms to support those who work in the sector, but also protection for pet owners?
Context
Following a BBC 'Panorama' programme that aired on January 12, which reported concerns about upselling practices by veterinarians employed by large veterinary companies. This raised concerns among pet owners and prompted calls for reform to protect consumers.
The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Reynolds)
Yes, I can assure the House. The consultation will look at a range of issues including modernising the regulation of veterinary professionals to support those who work in the sector. We will also require vet practices to publish price lists for common treatments and improve price transparency so that pet owners get a better deal.
Session: Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966
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Can my right hon. Friend outline what steps he will take to support employability services in Renfrewshire going forward?
Context
The UK shared prosperity fund currently supports about 20% of Renfrewshire council’s employability budget, which is due to end.
Pat McFadden
My hon. Friend, the youth guarantee will be a GB-wide scheme helping people in Scotland. She will agree that the Scottish Government have had the most generous financial settlement since devolution and should allocate some of this towards employability priorities.
Session: Topical Questions
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Earlier this year, two teenagers were prosecuted for the torture and killing of kittens in a public park. A BBC investigation has since uncovered a disturbing international network sharing videos of extreme cruelty to cats and kittens, and users here in the UK and those prosecuted have been found to be in possession of that material. Online animal abuse is not a harmless niche; it is a recognised warning sign for escalating violence, including serious crimes against women and girls. I am pleased that the Prime Minister’s Christmas card promotes kindness towards animals. Will my hon. Friend outline what further work his Department is doing to ensure that we address harmful content?
Context
Two teenagers were prosecuted for torturing and killing kittens in a public park. A BBC investigation uncovered an international network sharing videos of extreme cruelty to cats and kittens, with users possessing such material being in the UK.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Kanishka Narayan)
May I first pay tribute to my hon. Friend—and indeed her cats Clement Cattlee and Mo Meowlam—for being right at the vanguard of campaigning on this serious issue. Animal cruelty is a priority offence in the law, as I mentioned, and Ofcom must enforce it and platforms must act on it. The Government will keep the pressure on, as we have done in our engagements with the platforms, to ensure that our cats—our animals—are safe from cruelty.
Session: Torture of Animals Online Content
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May I join colleagues in sending my warmest congratulations to the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the hon. Member for Cardiff South and Penarth (Stephen Doughty), on his recent nuptials? Over the summer recess, reports emerged that the Russians had launched an online “catalogue” of the children whom they have stolen from Ukraine. This grotesque database allows Russian families to search for Ukrainian children by hair and eye colour. The Russians are advertising their war crimes in real time. What further action are the Government taking on this issue, and can the Foreign Secretary assure me that it will be the highest priority in discussions with the President of the United States during his visit later this month?
Context
The MP refers to recent reports of a Russian online catalogue that allows families in Russia to search for Ukrainian children by hair and eye colour, highlighting the war crimes committed against Ukrainian children.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this issue once again. It is absolutely a standing item on the agenda with our friends in the United States, and of course we discuss these issues with our friends in Ukraine. Very shortly, my hon. Friend will see a further announcement in relation to this terrible atrocity.
Session: Russia Economic Sanctions
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As someone who proudly served the trade union movement for two decades before entering this place, I warmly welcome the Government’s improvement to workers’ rights. Will the Minister set out what steps are being taken to ensure that no one is left behind in the vital reforms to statutory sick pay?
Context
The MP, with a background in trade union work, welcomes the government's improvements to workers' rights.
The Minister for Employment (Alison McGovern)
I know that so many of my hon. Friends will, like her, welcome the changes we are making to statutory sick pay, which will improve eligibility for 1.3 million of the lowest-paid employees and remove the waiting period. Many of those who will benefit are low-paid women. The removal of the waiting period will mean that all employees receive at least £60 more at the start of their sickness absence compared to the current system, but we will continue to evaluate the measures as they are implemented.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is fantastic news that Ferguson Marine has secured a contract with BAE Systems to help further enhance the UK’s maritime capability, making use of its skilled workforce. Does my right hon Friend agree that this is in sharp contrast to the student union politics played on defence by the SNP Government? Does he agree that the benefits of the spending review cannot be fully assessed until the SNP is removed from power in 2026?
Context
Johanna Baxter highlighted the positive impact of Ferguson Marine securing a contract with BAE Systems to enhance UK’s maritime capability. She contrasted this with criticisms towards SNP's handling of defence.
The Secretary of State for Scotland (Ian Murray)
Yet again, I agree with my hon Friend. I pay special tribute to both her and my hon Friend the Member for Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West who have done so much to make sure we can get work into Ferguson Marine. Again, it will not be lost on the House, or indeed the Scottish public, that the defence industry is supporting jobs in Scotland and straight into Ferguson Marine. Where the Scottish Government walk past on the other side, we will invest.
Session: Spending Review 2025 Economic Growth
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Will the Foreign Secretary consider further sanctions on the Russian regime for the forced deportation of Ukrainian children? In recent peace talks, the Russian delegation proposed an exchange of prisoners of war for Ukrainian children who had been stolen from their homes, thereby equating combatants with children, who receive special protected status under international law. Is that not horrific? Does the Foreign Secretary share my concern that 53,000 Ukrainian children are expected to attend “summer camps” in Russia this summer, from which they are unlikely to return to their homes?
Context
The MP expresses concern over Russian actions regarding the forced deportation of Ukrainian children to summer camps in Russia, raising the issue of 53,000 expected to attend these camps this summer.
David Lammy
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for continuing to prosecute this issue and for raising it at every opportunity. It is a heinous crime. We have already sanctioned some of the individuals who lie behind it. I will not comment on future sanctions, but we are, of course, keeping this under full consideration. It will be a topic of discussion with both Ukrainian Foreign Ministers and NATO Ministers later today.
Session: Frozen Russian Assets
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This Labour Government are creating good, well-paid jobs across the whole of the UK, including in my Paisley and Renfrewshire South constituency. Will the Secretary of State explain what she is doing, in collaboration with Cabinet colleagues, to ensure that those new jobs are well paid and have good terms and conditions?
Context
Labour Government's record of creating new jobs across the UK is highlighted. The question focuses on ensuring that new jobs created are well-paid with good terms and conditions.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
My hon. Friend is right to highlight the Labour Government’s record of creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs across the UK. In Wales, we have two Labour Governments working together to create new jobs in our green industries and advanced manufacturing sectors. We are committed to ensuring that these jobs are well-paid and come with good terms and conditions.
Session: Employment Wales
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Good employers in my constituency of Paisley and Renfrewshire South—those who conduct employment checks and employ people on decent terms and conditions—are being undercut by unscrupulous firms that use exploitative practices and prey on the vulnerabilities of people seeking a better life here in the UK. What steps are being taken to protect people from exploitation and employers who do the right thing?
Context
In Johanna Baxter's constituency, good employers who conduct employment checks are being undercut by unscrupulous firms exploiting workers.
The Minister for Border Security and Asylum (Dame Angela Eagle)
Enforcement of the law is the best way to deal with this issue, which is why there has been a 40% increase in visits to check whether illegal working is going on, and a 71% increase in arrests since this Government came to office. Fines for employing illegal workers stand at £20,000 per worker discovered.
Session: Illegal Working
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I am pleased that today the United Kingdom is hosting a summit in London to reset our relationship with Europe—yet another sign that this Labour Government are restoring our reputation as a global power after it was trashed by a decade of Tory incompetence. Will my right hon. Friend outline what steps are being taken to ensure that our world-leading defence industry can access the European rearmament fund, to drive economic prosperity at home, benefit my constituents, and strengthen security across Europe?
Context
The UK is hosting a summit in London to reset its relationship with Europe, aiming to restore its reputation as a global power after a decade of perceived Tory incompetence. This Labour Government seeks to support economic growth and job creation within the defence industry.
The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry (Maria Eagle)
The UK and the EU will use this opportunity to explore closer collaboration across defence industrial initiatives in a way that will support economic growth and jobs on both sides, and help to prevent fragmentation across our shared industrial base. We can now go on to discuss a bilateral agreement to facilitate participation in EU schemes such as ReArm and SAFE—Security Action for Europe.
Session: European Rearmament Fund
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Can my right hon. Friend reassure the House that the data collected by the university has been secured and transferred to Europol, or that its funding is secure for the longer term?
Context
The Yale University humanitarian research lab was doing incredible work in tracking the 19,546 Ukrainian children who have been stolen by Russia. The work of this lab was preserved following international outrage and given a reprieve for six weeks ending on May 8th.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
I thank my hon. Friend for continually raising this matter. We are an active member of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, and we fund the Bring Kids Back UA and Save Ukraine campaigns. We have raised this issue internationally, and I am proud to have worked on it with Mrs Zelensky. I will write to the hon. Lady as soon as I can to update her on the funding.
Session: Ukraine Diplomacy
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The vast majority of UK businesses play by the rules, but fraud is estimated to cost UK taxpayers—including my constituents—between £55 billion and £80 billion per year. What is the Serious Fraud Office doing to encourage businesses to self-report wrongdoing?
Context
Fraud is estimated to cost UK taxpayers between £55 billion and £80 billion per year, according to the questioner's statement.
The Solicitor General (Full Name)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right; the vast majority of businesses do play by the rules, and fraud is so damaging precisely because it undermines everyone who plays fairly. That is why this Government are so determined to tackle it. I welcome the SFO’s recently revised guidance, which aims to drive up the number of corporates that self-report wrongdoing. That is a positive development that will foster good corporate citizenship, and it is an important contributor to this Government’s economic growth mission.
Session: Serious Fraud Office Tackling Economic Crime
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Ms Baxter noted that funding is available for compensation but expressed concern over slow processing times, asking what steps will be taken to speed up payments to affected individuals.
Context
The Infected Blood Compensation Authority provides compensation to victims of the infected blood scandal. Constituents are concerned about delays in receiving compensation.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
Payments started for infected individuals last year and will begin for those affected by the end of this year. The Infected Blood Compensation Authority is operationally independent, but steps will be taken to expedite compensation.
Session: Topical Questions
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Many thousands of my constituents in Paisley and Renfrewshire South work in and rely on public services that are on their knees after 18 years of under-investment by the SNP Government at Holyrood. Will my right hon. Friend set out how the views of my constituents will be reflected in the spending review?
Context
The Scottish National Party (SNP) Government at Holyrood has been in power for 18 years, during which time there have been claims of under-investment in public services.
Rachel Reeves
Because of the decisions that we made in the Budget last year, we were able to provide a record settlement for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is a shame that the SNP MPs are not in the Chamber today. It is now the SNP’s responsibility to spend that money wisely and invest in public services. We are bringing down NHS waiting lists in England and Wales; the same cannot be said of Scotland.
Session: Topical Questions
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The UK defence industry supports hundreds of thousands of good jobs and represents UK manufacturing at its best. Will the Secretary of State outline what the Government are doing to support the defence sector in Scotland and in Northern Ireland?
Context
The UK defence industry supports hundreds of thousands of jobs, representing manufacturing excellence.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
The most important thing that we are doing is increasing defence expenditure, which will provide the opportunities to which I referred a moment ago. I also very much welcome the Ministry of Defence’s announcement of a new hub for small and medium-sized enterprises to allow them better access to the defence supply chain. The MOD has also committed to setting a target by July this year for spending on SMEs.
Session: Defence Expenditure Supply Chain
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I declare an interest as chair of the all-party parliamentary group on cats. The Animal Welfare Committee’s report highlighted the urgent need for further regulation around the breeding of cats after uncovering a trend towards extreme characteristics. Will the Minister set out how many of the report’s recommendations the Government have taken up, and what their timeframes are for implementation?
Context
The Animal Welfare Committee's report highlighted the urgent need for further regulation around the breeding of cats due to concerning trends in demand.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
The Government are closely examining the welfare implications of current feline breeding practices as per the Animal Welfare Committee’s opinion. We are carefully considering their recommendations.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last week I spoke to businesses and officials working on Ukraine’s critical national infrastructure who are on the frontline of Russian cyber-attacks. They told me that, since the invasion, there have been cyber-attacks on virtually every aspect of Ukrainian life, highlighting the scope of the damage they have done to civilian and military operations. Can my right hon. Friend say a little more about how we are learning the lessons from this conflict and what we are doing to protect our own national infrastructure from Russian cyber-attacks?
Context
Following concerns expressed about ransomware attacks, Johanna Baxter refers to discussions with Ukrainian officials regarding the extensive Russian cyber-attacks on Ukraine's critical infrastructure since the invasion.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Pat McFadden)
The Government are helping Ukraine’s cyber-defenders to detect, disrupt and deter Russian cyber-attacks. The programme is backed by £16 million of UK funding, using world-leading expertise from both the private and public sectors to protect Ukraine’s critical national infrastructure. We understand that the protection of cyber-assets is part of modern warfare, and we are providing this help for Ukraine, just as we have supplied it with a large number of weapons over the past three years.
Session: Cyber-security
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The pandemic exposed the woeful inadequacy of the previous Government’s statutory sick pay provisions, and I am pleased that this Government have committed to reforming those through the Employment Rights Bill. Will the Minister look at the specific wording of the Bill to ensure there are no unintended consequences of the provisions on the removal of the lower earnings limit for statutory sick pay? Will he meet me to ensure that all workers receive proper statutory sick pay and no one is left worse off?
Context
Previous government's statutory sick pay provisions were deemed inadequate during the pandemic.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Justin Madders)
The experience of the pandemic really brought home that millions of people in this country do not qualify for statutory sick pay. We are determined to deal with that and I am happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss the issue in more detail.
Session: Topical Questions
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Recently, the owner of social media site X has used his sizeable platform to undermine the democratic result of last July’s general election; has stirred up hatred towards my hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham Yardley (Jess Phillips), putting her safety at risk; and has sought mechanisms to depose the Prime Minister. Can the Minister say what actions the Defending Democracy Taskforce is taking to prevent this kind of foreign interference in British politics?
Context
The owner of social media site X has used his platform to undermine the democratic result of last July’s general election, stirring up hatred towards Jess Phillips.
Dan Jarvis (The Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department)
I thank my hon. Friend for that important question. The Government consider this work to be urgent. We have seen some utterly unacceptable activity, both during and beyond the general election. I hope that work to address this issue will be a shared endeavour right across the House, but the Government are working at pace to address it.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituency of Paisley and Renfrewshire South is home to the beautiful RSPB Lochwinnoch nature reserve. In addition to supporting our biodiversity, the reserve serves as a natural carbon sink. Globally, wetlands hold approximately 20% to 30% of the Earth's soil carbon despite covering only 5% of the land surface. Will the Minister outline how the Department is integrating wetland and peatland restoration into its strategy for meeting the UK's carbon capture and storage targets?
Context
The question arises from the need to address climate change through wetland and peatland restoration. The Labour Party is seeking details on how these efforts are being integrated into UK strategies.
Kerry McCarthy
I am aware of the excellent work being carried out at Lochwinnoch. We know that protecting and restoring our peatlands is essential for tackling the climate crisis. We are committed to restoring approximately 280,000 hectares of peatland. We are also looking at innovative ways of getting funding into those nature-based solutions so that they can thrive.
Session: Climate Change Nature-based Solutions
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Whether he is taking steps with Cabinet colleagues to support nature-based solutions to climate change.
Context
The question arises from the need to address climate change through nature-based initiatives. The Labour Party is seeking steps with Cabinet colleagues to support these solutions.
Kerry McCarthy
We know that nature-based solutions have a key role to play in climate mitigation and keeping to 1.5°C at home and abroad. I have met the Minister for Nature, my hon. Friend the Member for Coventry East (Mary Creagh), and the Government have appointed two special representatives for climate and for nature, who will be working closely together too.
Session: Climate Change Nature-based Solutions
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In my Paisley and Renfrewshire South constituency, the rate of premature death in men is 47.9% higher than the UK average. According to National Records of Scotland, the number of people who have died by suicide has increased to the highest level in 10 years. Does my hon. Friend agree that this is a damning indictment of the SNP Government's record on health? Will he commit today to holding a summit in November with Movember?
Context
The number of people who have died by suicide in Renfrewshire has increased to the highest level in 10 years, indicating a concerning trend.
Andrew Gwynne
Those statistics are damning and shocking. Health inequalities need tackling, especially regarding the SNP Government's record on health in the constituency and Scotland. A summit with Movember is a good idea to address men's health issues.
Session: Primary Care Services for Men England and Scotland
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If he will make a comparative assessment of the adequacy of access to primary care services for men in (a) England and (b) Scotland. Lord Darzi identified that primary care is broken with 1,600 fewer fully qualified GPs than in 2017. In my constituency, the rate of premature death among men is higher than the UK average.
Context
Lord Darzi's NHS review highlighted that primary care is broken, with fewer GPs than in 2017. In Johanna Baxter's constituency, the rate of premature death among men is higher than the UK average.
Andrew Gwynne
Primary care is broken as Lord Darzi identified, with fewer GPs. The SNP Government has questions to answer regarding health inequalities affecting men in the constituency and across Scotland. A summit with Movember to discuss men's health issues is a good idea.
Session: Primary Care Services for Men England and Scotland
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Will the Secretary of State explain his actions to ensure Britain is a main player in tackling the climate emergency? Will he meet local representatives on rewilding initiatives?
Context
The MP notes that climate action is critical following warnings from Sir David Attenborough.
Ed Miliband
The Government sees leadership at home as essential to international success. They aim to tackle the situation inherited from previous governments, despite being off track globally.
Session: Climate Change International Work
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Does the Minister agree that delays impact the individual's health and potential contribution? What further steps will she take to ensure reform?
Context
The question pertains to the delays in Access to Work claim processing, affecting individuals' mental health and economic contribution.
Alison McGovern
Agrees that delays impact individuals' health and potential. Aims for an 80% employment rate including people with disabilities, working on policies in an employment White Paper to ensure full contributions from all citizens.
Session: Access to Work Programme
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What steps she is taking to reduce the time taken for Access to Work claims to be processed. Does the Minister agree that delays impact the individual's health and potential contribution? What further steps will she take to ensure reform?
Context
The question pertains to the delays in Access to Work claim processing, which affects individuals' mental health and their ability to contribute economically.
Alison McGovern
Agrees with the importance of addressing delays. Labour aims for an 80% employment rate including people with disabilities, working on policies in an employment White Paper to ensure full contributions from all citizens.
Session: Access to Work Programme
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Sir David Attenborough: Permanent National Monument
09 June 2026
Responding: Ian Murray
Main Concerns
["Johanna Baxter expressed deep admiration for Sir David Attenborough, highlighting his contributions to broadcasting and environmental advocacy. She noted that despite having over 50 species named in his honour, there is currently no permanent national monument dedicated to him in the UK. Baxter pointed out Sir David's significant impact on public imagination through programmes like 'Zoo Quest', his role in shaping British broadcasting, and his influential speeches at COP24 and the UN Security Council regarding climate change."]
Specific Asks
['Baxter called on the Government to work with her to create a carefully designed sculpture in a prominent public location as a permanent tribute to Sir David Attenborough. The proposal would be privately funded through cultural institutions, charitable organisations, and voluntary contributions from the public.']
Ukraine: Forcibly Deported Children
21 May 2025
Responding: Stephen Doughty
Main Concerns
['At least 19,546 Ukrainian children have been stolen by Russian forces since the start of Putin’s invasion. The official estimates are horrendous enough, but some organisations estimate that the total number could be much higher with up to 700,000 Ukrainian children accepted into Russia. Since April, there has been a systematic abduction and forcible deportation of Ukrainian children from Russian-occupied territories, including the use of military-style camps for indoctrination and drone warfare training.']
Specific Asks
['The report highlights that President Putin has directed to streamline bureaucratic barriers for the placement of Ukrainian children into Russian families. I hope the Minister will demonstrate a sense of urgency in getting these children home again.']
Backbench Business
18 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That this House has considered the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme. The debate highlights the need for just compensation and recognition of those affected by contaminated blood produ...
Grooming Gangs: Independent Inquiry
18 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Regional Innovation and Growth
18 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Digital Safety: Children
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Milburn Review: Interim Report
02 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson Humble Address: Government Response
01 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Costs for Motorists
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East: Economic Response
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Referral of Prime Minister to Committee of Privileges
28 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion calls for the matter of Peter Mandelson's appointment as US Ambassador to be referred to the Privileges Committee due to claims that the Prime Minister misled the House. Kemi Badenoch argue...
Hatzola Ambulance Attack
23 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
83.1%
69 of 83 votes
Aye Votes
26
31.3% of votes
No Votes
43
51.8% of votes
Abstentions
14
16.9% of votes
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
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: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
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 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
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: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
3
PMQs Asked
36
Ministerial Questions Asked
100
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
83
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
-19% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+164% above average
This MP:
36
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-21% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1966% above average
This MP:
100
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+20% above average
This MP:
83.1
Average:
69.5
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 Johanna Baxter's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.