John Cooper
MP for Dumfries and Galloway
Con
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
When he was Director of Public Prosecutions, I do not think the right hon. and learned Gentleman would have sat comfortably in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Cameron, but incredibly in Scotland, we have a situation in which the head of prosecutions—the Lord Advocate—does sit in Cabinet. This situation has been thrown into sharp focus lately by a police probe into the finances of the SNP, and has been thrown further into focus because, although not personally involved, the Lord Advocate ultimately sits at the head of the investigation into former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who faced potential criminal charges. This situation has been created by the SNP, who will not fix it. Does it sit with this House to amend the situation?
Context
The issue of the head of prosecutions in Scotland sitting in Cabinet has been raised due to a police probe into SNP finances and an investigation involving former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. This situation is seen as problematic.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
This is a really important issue, and Labour in Scotland has been clear that it would separate that role. That is the right thing to do, for the reasons that have just been articulated; it is the obvious thing to do, and obviously it is what we do in England and Wales. There have been calls for a review of this issue since 2021, but the SNP has not acted fast on those calls. It really does need to bring forward proposals now to deal with this problem, which has been sitting there for a very long time.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not directly address whether it is the House's responsibility to amend the situation.
Diverting To Criticism Of Snp
Session: PMQs
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Fuel duty is catnip for a Chancellor desperate for revenue, but it is no sin tax, because for millions of Britons, vehicles are lifelines not luxuries. The imminent rise in fuel duty comes as tankers are ablaze in the strait of Hormuz. Must family budgets also go up in flames?
Context
The price of fuel is linked to international events, such as the conflict in the strait of Hormuz.
James Murray
I think the hon. Gentleman's point is that the price of fuel is linked to international events, which, as I said earlier, I very much agree with. That is why it is important that we de-escalate the situation in the strait of Hormuz, which is the best way to bring down the cost of fuel. Meanwhile, the Government are determined to give families across the country breathing space—extending the 5p cut until the end of the year, a £2 cap on bus fares, and removing VAT from electricity bills—as we weather the impact of international events.
Session: Fuel Duty Cost of Living 2026-09-08
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While still at school, I played my part in the creative industries by playing in bands with names as louche as Street Lethal and Cheap Sweeties. It was very lucrative.
Context
The MP reflects on his own experience in the creative industry during school days.
Peter Kyle
Not only are we investing £2.5 billion but we are working across Departments to ensure that 400,000 students in disadvantaged schools will take up AI and tech skills through the tech first programme. Extending hours for 13-year-olds is not a serious solution.
Session: Youth Employment 2026-07-02
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What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to support the creation of jobs for young people.
Context
The MP is concerned about job creation for young people, a critical issue in his constituency.
Peter Kyle
We are investing £2.5 billion over the next three years in tackling the issues around youth unemployment. That will include new initiatives, such as a further 19 technical excellence colleges to provide high-quality training for jobs in key sectors.
Session: Youth Employment 2026-07-02
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In Scotland, benefit fraud has effectively been decriminalised; the number of prosecutions is vanishingly small. Given that the Department for Work and Pensions continues to have a role in Scotland—administering some benefits, despite devolution—what can the Department do to tackle fraud there? It is happening here, and we have a two-tier system in Scotland.
Context
The question addresses the issue of benefit fraud in Scotland, where prosecutions are rare due to decriminalisation. It seeks clarification on how the Department for Work and Pensions will tackle this issue given its continued role in administering some benefits.
Andrew Western
If the hon. Gentleman has specific concerns about how benefits are being administered and fraud is being investigated through the powers of the Scottish Parliament, I would very much appreciate it if he could write to me. In some instances, the way in which the Department and our Scottish Government counterparts will be investigating fraud means that we are now teed up to intervene at an earlier stage, where a number of the issues can be less serious. We can detect and act at a much earlier stage. That is beneficial in reducing fraud and for claimants.
Session: Social Security Fraud and Error 2026-06-29
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What recent estimate he has made of the level of fraud and error in the social security system. The current rate is 3.2%, compared with a peak of 4.3% at financial year end 2022, indicating sustained progress with fraud and error measures. What steps will be taken to further reduce these levels?
Context
The question addresses the recent estimates of fraud and error levels in the social security system, seeking specific details on how these figures compare to past peaks and future targets.
Andrew Western
Overall levels of fraud and error are the lowest since the pandemic at 3.2%, compared with the peak of 4.3% in financial year end 2022, demonstrating sustained progress with our fraud and error measures. Building on that success, we have set a new ambition to reduce the rate to 2.8% by 2028-29, which would be the lowest cross-welfare overpayment rate since tax credits were introduced in 2003.
Session: Social Security Fraud and Error 2026-06-29
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My constituents will be alarmed to hear that Labour's “devolve and forget” approach has led to problems. When the Secretary of State was away, the SNP took advantage of the situation by discussing breaking up Britain abroad using taxpayers' money. Shouldn't the Secretary of State invite the First Minister for a meeting?
Context
The questioner criticises the Scottish Government's approach to discussions on a new independence referendum, suggesting that it is a distraction from other issues.
Douglas Alexander
The hon. Gentleman makes a serious point; I wrote to the First Minister congratulating him on his recent success and invited him to meet, but he refused. There is no consensus for another referendum today as there was in 2014.
Session: Scottish Independence
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What recent discussions has the Secretary of State had with the First Minister of Scotland on a new referendum on Scottish independence?
Context
Recent discussions between the First Minister of Scotland and the UK government about a new Scottish independence referendum are raising concerns in Dumfries and Galloway.
Douglas Alexander
None.
Session: Scottish Independence
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Happy St George’s day, Mr Speaker. We face many threats, but happily dragons are no longer one of them.
The Government maintain that the messages between Morgan McSweeney and his mentor Peter Mandelson are under the aegis of the Metropolitan police and therefore cannot be released, but surely the questions are critical to our understanding of what has gone on here and should be available to the House. Will the Government at least commit to publishing the questions?
The Government maintain that the messages between Morgan McSweeney and his mentor Peter Mandelson are under the aegis of the Metropolitan police and therefore cannot be released, but surely the questions are critical to our understanding of what has gone on here and should be available to the House. Will the Government at least commit to publishing the questions?
Darren Jones
As I have said from the Dispatch Box, the victims of Jeffrey Epstein want to see justice. A criminal investigation by the police is under way, and it is right that the House does not interfere with that process and works with the Metropolitan police to allow them to undertake their work.
Session: Topical Questions
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Thank you, Mr Speaker. I do not know whether to stand at the Dispatch Box or on it.
For want of a horseshoe nail, the kingdom was lost. The defence of our country today rests on modern nail-makers—the small and medium-sized enterprises supplying small but vital parts for frigates and fighter jets and for our fighting men and women. The endless delay in this Labour Government’s defence investment plan means that companies have no certainty about orders, and good jobs hang in the balance, from Pembrokeshire to Prestatyn. What pressure is the Secretary of State bringing to bear on Cabinet colleagues in the Ministry of Defence and the Treasury to keep Welsh jobs, and indeed this United Kingdom, from being lost?
For want of a horseshoe nail, the kingdom was lost. The defence of our country today rests on modern nail-makers—the small and medium-sized enterprises supplying small but vital parts for frigates and fighter jets and for our fighting men and women. The endless delay in this Labour Government’s defence investment plan means that companies have no certainty about orders, and good jobs hang in the balance, from Pembrokeshire to Prestatyn. What pressure is the Secretary of State bringing to bear on Cabinet colleagues in the Ministry of Defence and the Treasury to keep Welsh jobs, and indeed this United Kingdom, from being lost?
Anna McMorrin
Again, the cheek of the Conservatives! They had 14 years in power, and what did they do? They hollowed out our armed forces and defences and failed to develop any proper plan for our defence industry. This Government are taking action, delivering the biggest sustained increase in spending since the cold war. We are working at pace to finalise our defence investment plan, ensuring that it is robust and supports the development of current and future capabilities. As opposed to the Conservatives in their 14 years in power, we are investing in our defence.
Session: Defence Sector
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The Nith Inshore Rescue Service in my constituency has recently lost its sponsor who provided free fuel. Will the Secretary of State speak to the Chancellor about VAT and fuel costs affecting life-saving operations in remote Scotland?
Context
Nith Inshore Rescue has lost a sponsor due to rising costs.
Ed Miliband
The Chancellor will have heard the hon. Member's question, because she is in the room. My right hon. Friend is providing support for people but on a platform of fiscal stability, which the Conservative party would do well to understand.
Session: Topical Questions
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Small boat returns run at around 6% of total numbers arriving. If not due to ECHR, which part of the Government's flawed policy is responsible for this low rate?
Context
The Home Secretary denies that small boat returns are related to the European Convention on Human Rights.
Alex Norris
Under this Government, removals have now reached 60,000. The routes by which people come generally depend on country and likelihood of claim acceptance.
Session: Topical Questions
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Youth unemployment is spiking at nearly 5.3%, which is heartbreaking. What can the government do to mitigate this?
Context
Youth unemployment is spiking at 5.3%, and the questioner is critical of the government's response, including the Employment Rights Act 2025.
Pat McFadden
The hon. Member will be aware of the national insurance tax break under which no employer national insurance contributions are payable for workers under 21, unless they earn more than £50,000, which not too many workers under the age of 21 do.
Session: Unemployment
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Merry Christmas to you, Mr Speaker, and to your tip-top team. Dumfries and Galloway is the land of milk and slurry. We lack not for grass and dairy cattle, but we do lack for people. We are heavily reliant on immigrants to milk the cattle, so the loss of occupation code 5111 from the immigration salary list is causing huge concern. Can my farmers count on the Secretary of State to speak to the Home Office and head off what appears to be a looming crisis?
Context
There is a concern in Dumfries and Galloway about the removal of occupation code 5111 from the immigration salary list, which may cause difficulties for dairy farming as it relies heavily on immigrants to milk cattle.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Dame Angela Eagle)
We have a close relationship with the Home Office, and I have old contacts there too. I promise that we keep a close eye on these things and look at what we can do about emerging shortages. Given that we want to reduce the number of people who come into this country and that we want to create job opportunities for people here, it is important that the sector looks at how it can train people locally to do those jobs.
Session: Support for Dairy Farmers
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Hospitality in Wales and across the United Kingdom is dying on its feet. It needs a shot in the arm; instead, last week’s bin-fire Budget gave it a shot in the head. This is more money coming out of businesses, is it not?
Context
MP John Cooper questions the potential economic effects of a visitor levy proposed in Wales, citing challenges faced by the hospitality sector.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Anna McMorrin)
Quite the contrary: the visitor levy would boost the economy by up to £33 million if all councils were to accept it across Wales. I do not think that will—[Interruption.]
Session: Visitor Levy Wales
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The F-35 Lightning II aircraft is a cutting-edge system, the helmets for which come from my constituency, but the Public Accounts Committee has the MOD in missile lock over the cost of introducing the new nuclear freefall bombs with the F-35A. Can the Minister give the House some reassurance that the decision to bring in tactical nuclear weapons is not going to cost us a bomb?
Context
The hon. Member inquires about the cost implications of introducing new tactical nuclear freefall bombs with F-35A, requesting reassurance.
Luke Pollard
Yes.
Session: Topical Questions
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It beggars belief that the inquiry inches along at such a dreadfully slow pace. With the Scottish Government ruling out an inquiry there, will the Home Secretary please commit to fast-tracking a thoroughgoing inquiry into the grooming gang scandal, for the sake of the victims?
Context
The issue of establishing a national inquiry into group-based child sexual exploitation and abuse has been ongoing, with criticism over the slow pace of progress.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
For the sake of the victims, who we all think about today, we must ensure that we get this right. There were multiple issues with the chair at the start of Baroness Jay’s inquiry, which took many years. We want to do what Baroness Casey has recommended, do this right and properly, and do this alongside the victims, whom we are talking to. We must, of course, lead the way on this.
Session: Grooming Gangs National Inquiry
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The Chancellor elicited much public sympathy with her recent tearful appearance on these Benches, but over the summer I have had Dumfries and Galloway farmers in tears at the loss of the next generation of farming. A new Centre for the Analysis of Taxation report says that HMRC’s own figures indicate that these changes to taxes are unfair and unbalanced. Will the Minister please think again?
Context
Local farmers have expressed distress over potential tax changes, with a report suggesting that these changes are unfair and unbalanced.
James Murray
The hon. Gentleman is wrong. The CenTax report he refers to is independent analysis demonstrating that, in its opinion, the reforms improve on the current position and are expected largely to meet the Government’s objective. In fact, the report validates the Government’s position.
Session: Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief Impact on Farming
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I think we can all agree that fraud strikes at the heart of the system, kicking away its underpinnings. I hope that the Government will undertake a zero-tolerance approach, unlike in Scotland, where we recently heard that £36 million of benefit money paid out in error is now not to be recovered. Does the Minister agree that that is deeply unfair to taxpayers?
Context
The issue of welfare fraud is highlighted as a major concern for taxpayers, with recent reports indicating £36 million in benefit payments being non-recoverable in Scotland.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
The hon. Gentleman tempts me to encroach on what are legitimately policy questions for the Scottish Government. The policy of this Government is clear and set out in the Bill, but I am grateful to the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice for continuing to work with me constructively to make the Bill as workable as possible, with alignment where possible.
Session: Welfare Fraud
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The review of the 2020 Act is said to give greater flexibility to devolved Governments. Is there a risk this invites change for change sake and damages trade?
Context
Concerns about review of the UK Internal Market Act inviting divergence damaging trade.
Gareth Thomas
The Government say that Devolved Governments will have greater flexibility to set rules. This does not necessarily invite unnecessary divergence but provides more tailored approaches within the framework.
Session: Topical Questions
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We Conservatives were vilified when we pointed out that the vindictive changes to farming reliefs were going to damage jobs in rural Scotland. The Scotland Office conducted its own roundtable with agriculture figures. Will the Minister share the results of that with the House, the Scottish Government and, crucially, whoever the Deputy Prime Minister decides will be the next Chancellor of the Exchequer?
Context
Conservatives pointed out that changes to farming reliefs would damage jobs in rural Scotland. The Scotland Office conducted a roundtable with agriculture figures.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
I would be delighted to report back to the House and Scotland’s rural communities, including my own in Midlothian, about the outcomes of the farming roundtable. We heard directly from stakeholders that they want support and, crucially, for the two Governments to work together, which is exactly why we had the Scottish Government around the table.
Session: Supporting Scottish Agriculture
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of the adequacy of the A75 and A77 roads leading to Cairnryan ferry port on the Northern Ireland economy? There cannot be a person in Northern Ireland who has not either been along the A75 or the A77 or had something delivered to them that has been driven through the ferry port at Cairnryan. We in Dumfries and Galloway and people across Scotland know that these are the highways from hell. This morning, even as we speak, the A75 has been closed by another overturned lorry. We are crying out for improvements. Can I count on the support of the might of the Northern Ireland Office to get the Department for Transport here to engage, as well as the Scottish Government?
Context
The MP noted the critical importance of the A75 and A77 roads leading to Cairnryan ferry port for both passenger and freight traffic between Scotland and Northern Ireland. He referenced a recent incident where the A75 was closed due to an overturned lorry, highlighting ongoing concerns about road conditions.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I echo the hon. Gentleman’s point, having driven along the road myself. My notes helpfully say that average speeds on the A75 and A77 are lower than on several other Scottish trunk roads—you can say that again. I think that the Secretary of State for Scotland has written to him and offered a meeting to discuss the issue. We all want to see the road improved.
Session: A75 and A77 Roads Economic Impact
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What steps he is taking to maintain the capability of the Red Arrows. The TSR-2 aircraft was a world beater. Unfortunately, the only thing that it could not beat in a dog fight was a Labour Government, who knew the cost of everything and the value of nothing. Will the Minister assure me that we have learned the lessons of TSR-2, and that we will look at the replacement for the Hawk in the light of pressing a British-designed and manufactured aircraft that can sell Britain abroad?
Context
The strategic defence review recommended replacing the Hawk T1 and T2 with a cost-effective advanced jet trainer. The future platform of the Royal Air Force aerobatic team is under consideration.
The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry (Maria Eagle)
The Conservative party set 2030 as the Hawk T1’s out-of-service date in its 7-year strategic defence and security review, and it then did precisely nothing to achieve a replacement in the nine years that followed, so I am disinclined to take lessons from the hon. Gentleman’s party on how to replace the Hawk. I assure him that the competition will welcome any bids from UK-based suppliers.
Session: Red Arrows
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When it comes to bus manufacturer Alexander Dennis and the jobs at risk there, there is not an elephant in the room—there is a Chinese dragon. The company is in competition not with commercial organisations from China, but with entities of the Chinese state. What representations will the Secretary of State make to the Prime Minister in an attempt to level a playing field that is currently about as flat as the Galloway hills?
Context
The MP highlighted a challenge faced by Alexander Dennis, a British bus manufacturer, due to competition from Chinese entities.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Jonathan Reynolds)
I firmly agree with the hon. Gentleman that a level playing field is not just an economic necessity, but a matter of economic security and production in western economies like our own. Of course, if a company has a specific case to make, it should make the representation to the Trade Remedies Authority directly—I have that power, but it would usually come from industry. If the company has a specific case to make, the hon. Gentleman should encourage it to make that representation.
Session: Topical Questions
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Operation Banner defeated the IRA militarily and paved the way for the Good Friday agreement, so why are this Labour Government now pushing two-tier justice, to the obvious detriment of our brave Northern Ireland veterans and to the advantage of Gerry Adams and his Sinn Féin fellow travellers? Where is the justice in that?
Context
The MP referenced the importance of Operation Banner in Northern Ireland and questioned the Government's stance on supporting veterans compared to providing justice.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
This Government are dealing with the woeful shortcomings of the last Government’s Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023. As we do so, we will give priority to strengthening the protections that preserve dignity and respect for our veterans who served in Northern Ireland.
Session: Support for Veterans Operation Banner
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The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps is the terrorism export wing of the despotic regime in Tehran. Why are we not joining the Americans in proscribing this organisation when we did proscribe the Wagner organisation in Russia? Is it possibly because the Americans are pressuring us to continue our tenuous diplomatic links with Tehran?
Context
The MP references the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps' activities as a terrorist entity.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
I remind the hon. Gentleman that on 4 March the UK specified Iran under the foreign influence registration scheme, which targets those who undertake malign activity in the UK. Of course we keep proscription under review. We are looking closely at the area of state threats; that is traditionally very different from the sorts of cells and terrorist communities that we do proscribe. That is why the Government continue to look at this area very carefully.
Session: US Policy on Iran
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With the Welsh bottle deposit scheme going down the same disastrous dead end as the Scottish bottle deposit scheme, and now more costs are being added to Welsh tourism, making staycations more expensive, the Government appear to be creating a hostile environment for business. Add in the review of the UK internal market, which is meant to make doing business across this great land of ours easier. Why are the Government loosening the bonds of our great Union?
Context
The MP referenced the Welsh bottle deposit scheme's issues and concerns about increased costs for Welsh tourism. He also mentioned a review of the UK internal market that aims to ease business across regions.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
Wales is the second-best recycling nation in the whole world. The answer referenced the environmental context without addressing the specific concerns about the visitor levy or business environment.
Session: Proposed Visitor Levy
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Farmers across the UK have already been rocked by the changes to APR and BPR, and yesterday we had shock news that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will take no new sustainable farming incentive applications in England. What reassurances can the Minister give farmers in Wales that the sustainable farming scheme will be delivered in full and on time on 1 January next year?
Context
John Cooper is concerned about changes to agricultural property relief (APR) and business property relief (BPR) in Wales, citing a series of agricultural roundtables conducted by the Scotland Office which suggest that the number of affected farms may be higher than estimated.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Dame Nia Griffith)
As the hon. Gentleman knows, my good friend the Deputy First Minister of Wales has spent a lot of time talking to farmers. We have absolutely protected the budget for farmers, as have the Welsh Government, so the full £337 million will go directly to farmers, despite his colleagues in the Senedd trying to block it last week.
Session: Changes to APR and BPR Number of Farms Affected
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What discussions she has had with businesses on the potential impact of the autumn Budget 2024 on levels of business confidence? The Chancellor, with her unimpeachable record in the sector, will know that economics is known as the dismal science. As a member of the Business and Trade Committee, rather than using second-hand statistics, I have spoken directly with businesses one to one and found that the mood is indeed dismal. After her dud Budget, can she think again and go back on this desperate jobs tax? She is in danger of becoming tough on growth and tough on the causes of growth.
Context
Business confidence has been a key concern after the Autumn Budget 2024. Recent surveys by Lloyds, EY, and PwC have shown varying levels of optimism among businesses.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
Economic stability and growth are vital to help businesses across the UK to grow. The Lloyds business barometer published last week showed business confidence up 12 points, building on recent surveys by EY and PwC that show that business and investor confidence is rising. The Government are partnering with business to unlock investment and to drive growth. Conservative Members welcome the additional money for the NHS, but they never welcome the means to pay for it, which is why we are in the mess that we are with the £22 billion black hole we inherited from the previous Government.
Session: Autumn Budget 2024 Business Confidence
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Does the Minister see the need for an agreed definition of “Islamophobia” that understands its impact on Muslim women?
Context
Following a series of racist incidents, there is concern about the systemic nature of Islamophobia affecting Muslim women in particular.
Seema Malhotra
My hon. Friend raises an important issue. We have committed to strengthening protections against dual discrimination and are working on addressing hate crime against Muslim women, including through the work of her Committee.
Session: Discrimination Against Ethnic Minorities
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Does the Secretary of State agree that increasing national insurance contributions harms hospitality businesses and threatens jobs?
Context
The increase in employer national insurance contributions affects hospitality businesses negatively.
Hilary Benn
Businesses in Northern Ireland are looking forward to the future, despite challenges from the increase in employer NI contributions. The fiscal situation needed addressing; we're fixing it now.
Session: Budget
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Government's analysis reveals significant costs associated with collective bargaining in adult social care. For example, matching pay awards to junior doctors' standards would cost businesses £5.8 billion, raising business rates and reducing employment or hours. When will further sectoral bargaining be implemented, for which sectors, and what are the expected costs?
Context
The Government's impact assessment for the Employment Rights Bill shows that sectoral collective bargaining could be very costly, with a potential £5.8 billion increase if pay levels match those of junior doctors.
Justin Madders
The hon. Member should look to his own party's record on neglecting adult social care for 14 years. The impact assessment shows an overall cost of 0.4% to employers, which is a small price for improved working conditions and raised living standards across the country.
Session: Sectoral Collective Bargaining
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Does the Secretary of State agree that we are indeed in the iron grip of the trade union barons since he was unable to attend an event in his own office last night because he would not cross a picket line?
Context
Criticism that new employment legislation will give trade unions too much power, citing an inability to attend events due to picket lines.
Martin McCluskey
We will take no lessons from the Conservative party, which left us with a £22 billion black hole in the public finances that we are having to pick up. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor will address this.
Session: Employment Rights Scotland
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In the shell crisis of 1915, the Government of the day and industry came together to support our troops on the western front. We are hearing much about new contracts being placed for things such as ordnance, which is critical to the defence of Ukraine and to replenishing our own stocks. Does the Secretary of State share my concern that senior figures in the Scottish Government seem reluctant to put money into those defence companies, except for civilian use? Can he explain how Scotland can play its full part since it provides so much of the ordnance, with everything from Storm Shadow to Type 26 destroyers built in Scotland?
Context
The MP asks about contracts being placed for ordnance in Scotland.
John Healey
The hon. Member and I share common cause in recognising the role that Scottish workers and Scottish industry play not just in the security of our own United Kingdom, but through the contribution we make to supporting Ukraine in its fight. I have been proud to visit workers in some of the Scottish sites. Our defence industrial strategy, as we develop it in the months ahead, will reinforce the essential role that Scotland plays in our security, and in the UK economy.
Session: Ukraine Military Support 2024-10-14 (2)
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Does the right hon. Gentleman share my consternation this morning that two sanctioned Russian oligarchs now have a share in Harbour Energy, our largest producer of North sea oil and gas? That seems incredible at this time, not least because the company they are using to have this stake was forced to divest itself of a broadband company due to national security threats.
Context
The MP raises concern over sanctioned Russian individuals' involvement in a UK-based energy company.
Ian Murray
I welcome the hon. Gentleman to his place and congratulate him on winning his seat. The issue is a concern to everyone in the House, and we will make sure that a written response is given to the hon. Gentleman as soon as possible.
Session: Energy Industry
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
RAF E-7 Wedgetail Programme
16 July 2025
Responding: Luke Pollard
Main Concerns
['The RAF faces a capability gap due to the retirement of the E-3D Sentry aircraft, which provides situational awareness for aerial combat. The replacement, the E-7 Wedgetail, is already two years late despite being combat-proven by the Royal Australian Air Force. There are also concerns about delays in certification and potential waning interest from the United States due to satellite alternatives.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks for assurances that the E-7 programme will not suffer the same fate as the Ajax armoured fighting vehicle programme, which was marked by significant cost overruns.']
UK-US Bilateral Relationship
04 February 2025
Responding: Stephen Doughty
Main Concerns
["President Trump's trade policies could impact key UK exports such as Scotch whisky. The UK is more services-oriented than goods, potentially making it a target for tariffs. Labour's policies are seen as self-harming, with the Employment Rights Bill causing concern."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the Minister to offer reassurance that Britain will use its freedoms from Brexit to strike deals and avoid being subservient to foreign governments or the EU.']
Bluetongue Virus in Livestock
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
UK-Switzerland Enhanced Free Trade Agreement
14 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
NATO Summit
09 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
European Entry and Exit System
08 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Early Release of Prisoners
07 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Calls on the Government to exempt from automatic early release under the Sentencing Act 2026 offenders who have been convicted of sexual offences against adults or children, including rape and groomin...
Prisoner Early Release
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Accommodation
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Media Green Paper
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Belfast: Violent Disorder
10 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
68.4%
67 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
36
36.7% of votes
No Votes
31
31.6% of votes
Abstentions
31
31.6% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 NO
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
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
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
1
PMQs Asked
34
Ministerial Questions Asked
103
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
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
-73% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+154% above average
This MP:
34
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2019% above average
This MP:
103
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 (%)
-1% below average
This MP:
68.4
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks John Cooper's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.