John Glen
MP for Salisbury
Con
6 May 2010 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Through the ages, an innovative and vibrant City of London has underpinned investment and growth in the wider economy, but the main challenge the City currently faces is how to get more capital into capital markets. Like many, I believe that London could gain new momentum if the Government took bold action to challenge and empower those who steward our pension assets to do things in new ways. Following the Chancellor’s decision to offer continuity of leadership at the Financial Conduct Authority, will the Prime Minister convene an urgent No. 10 summit with City leaders and the regulators to provide a reset and to maximise the chances that the City can lead economic growth and recovery in these times of grave uncertainty and turmoil?
Context
The MP is concerned about attracting more capital into the City of London's capital markets.
The Prime Minister
The right hon. Gentleman is right that we need to go further and faster in kick-starting growth and attracting the investment we need to create jobs, and that our regulators must regulate for growth and not just for risk. We do want that continuity of leadership that he mentioned, and we are convening and getting people together to drive growth.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to a specific summit but indicated ongoing efforts to drive growth.
Indicating Ongoing Efforts
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
What words of comfort can the Minister give to Salisbury residents? Since this Government came in, we have seen the lowest settlement or one of the lowest three settlements on police funding and local government funding, and the withdrawal of funding for our road network in the south of Wiltshire. Is rural England likely to be forgotten?
Context
Salisbury, a unitary authority, has received the lowest or one of the lowest settlements on police and local government funding, with the withdrawal of funding for the road network in the south of Wiltshire. Concern that rural England will be forgotten.
Emma Reynolds
This Government cares about driving growth in rural areas. We are supporting farmers through a £2.7 billion a year sustainable farming budget and improving connectivity in rural areas.
Session: Regional Funding 2026-09-08
View All Questions -->
I welcome the appointment of Parminder Kohli as the chief executive officer of the Office for Investment. He is a personal friend of mine, and he will bring 30 years of experience in the oil industry. Will the Secretary of State set out what measures of success Parminder will face, so we can judge what impact the Office for Investment makes and what role he will play?
Context
Parminder Kohli has been appointed as CEO of the Office for Investment, a role that John Glen believes will help bring scale-up investment to UK companies.
Peter Kyle
I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for his informed question. I, too, celebrate this important appointment and the Office for Investment is doing great work. The criteria for success that I see are how Britain can get more scale-up investment into companies, so they do not have to go elsewhere around the world to find the capital they need to grow, and how more people can start, build and scale right here in the UK.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-02
View All Questions -->
I thank the Minister for her answer. Hospitality is critical to Salisbury as we move towards our 800-year celebration next year. Last summer there was a 25% drop in temporary work, and the cost of employer national insurance contributions increased by 73%. Part-time jobs for the youngest workers are not there at the moment. Something significant needs to change in Government's approach.
Context
The question is prompted by concerns about the impact of recent national insurance changes on part-time workers in the hospitality sector, particularly noting a 25% drop in temporary work and a significant increase in employer national insurance contributions.
Kate Dearden
I thank the right hon. Member for raising the vital role that the hospitality sector plays. I am keen to continue listening to businesses, understanding their challenges. We have launched a youth jobs grant this week and want to keep working with businesses to support them.
Session: Hospitality Sector Employment 2026-07-02
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of trends in employment levels in the hospitality sector? Last summer there was a 25% drop in temporary work, and part-time jobs for young workers are not there at the moment. The cost of employer national insurance contributions increased by 73%. Hospitality is critical to Salisbury as we move towards our 800-year celebration next year.
Context
The question is prompted by concerns about employment trends and the economic impact of national insurance changes on part-time workers in the hospitality sector. John Glen mentions a 25% drop in temporary work last summer and an increase in employer national insurance contributions.
Kate Dearden
The hospitality sector supported around 2.1 million jobs last year, or around 6% of total employment. Employment has grown by over 18% in the past decade. We support jobs through skills investment, including new hospitality apprenticeships and incentives for SMEs to recruit young people.
Session: Hospitality Sector Employment 2026-07-02
View All Questions -->
Public inquiries undoubtedly provide a significant mechanism to bring redress to enduring wrongs in the British state. What conclusions is the Paymaster General coming to on how the Government ensure that money is spent well and that these public inquiries report in a timely fashion?
Context
The MP is concerned about the cost and governance issues associated with public inquiries, seeking clarity on how government plans to manage these effectively.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
The right hon. Gentleman is entirely right about that. I think we all know the value of public inquiries and the moment of public justice that they give. What we need to be very careful about is, first, how much they cost and, secondly, the time they take, so that when recommendations do come, they are timely.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Having spoken to ambassadors from various nations, such as the Scandinavian and Baltic states, as well as to the high commissioner of Canada, I understand that so many of these countries are now planning for dual-use infrastructure, for instance by expanding the width of motorways so that they can be considered for use by military aircraft in future conflict. Will the Minister update the House on our thinking in that domain?
Context
The MP speaks to ambassadors from various nations who are planning for dual-use infrastructure in response to potential future conflicts. The question focuses on the UK's thinking regarding similar approaches.
Angela Eagle
Dual-use infrastructure is an important part of how we do planning, and my hon. Friend is right that we have to be much smarter and more forward thinking than perhaps has been the case, knowing that we face a very volatile and rapidly changing series of threats ahead.
Session: National Resilience
View All Questions -->
Did she examine the behavioural effects of aligning the capital gains tax rate with higher rates of income tax before making a much more modest increase in her first Budget?
Context
The MP questions the Chancellor about aligning the capital gains tax rate to higher rates of income tax, seeking confirmation that such a policy was considered before implementing more modest increases.
Rachel Reeves
In my two Budgets, I have raised an additional £30 billion through taxes for more wealthy people, including changes to non-dom rules, VAT and business rates on private schools, taxes on private jets, high-value council tax surcharge, and increases in capital gains tax. Combined, that is an extra £30 billion secured for our public services.
Session: Economic Strength
View All Questions -->
I visited Woodlands primary school 10 days ago where £17,000 has been taken off their budget this year from the PE fund. Can the Minister explain what is happening for this immediate financial year?
Context
Concern about the immediate impact of reduced PE funding on specific schools, with a focus on Woodlands Primary School.
Georgia Gould
We are building something better for schools with national bodies providing opportunities and £1 billion over three years. There is transitional support, but we will build a new system that supports schools more effectively.
Session: PE and Sport Premium Primary Schools
View All Questions -->
What assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of planned changes to the PE and sport premium for primary schools on school budgets. I visited Woodlands primary school recently where £17,000 has been taken off their budget this year from the PE fund, affecting many schools in my constituency.
Context
Concerns about the impact of planned changes to the PE and sport premium on school budgets, especially affecting schools with limited resources.
Georgia Gould
We are determined to reverse declining rates of activity for children. We confirmed £1 billion in funding over three years, breaking down into £580 million for new PE and school sport partnerships network, £200 million for improved facilities, with transitional support for schools through the year.
Session: PE and Sport Premium Primary Schools
View All Questions -->
I want to ensure that the UK's right to diverge on the basis of its own scientific assessments is maintained. Can the Secretary of State give reassurance that this autonomy will be retained in future deals?
Context
The UK agriculture sector is seeking autonomy to make scientific assessments in precision breeding and plant protection.
Emma Reynolds
We are well aware of the concerns of the farming sector, and I can reassure the right hon. Gentleman that we are taking its very strong views and concerns into account. As I am sure he understands, I cannot give him a running commentary on the negotiations.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Having recently visited Wiltshire cadets in Old Sarum, I very much welcome what the Minister said about National Cadet Week. Will she ensure that all schools, particularly those in Pride in Place areas, such as the one in Salisbury, are made aware of the transformational opportunities of attending the cadets?
Context
The Minister announced National Cadet Week, prompting the question about awareness.
Louise Jones
The right hon. Gentleman makes a very good point. I am working with the Department for Education, as it is vital that we communicate the amazing things that cadets can do to complement the education delivered in schools.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Secretary of State is a former distinguished Treasury Minister. Government is about taking decisions when things change. It is welcome that the Chancellor has addressed the heating oil crisis, but what will the Secretary of State do to make the Chancellor come to terms with the changes over the last few weeks, and to provide some additional support so that the defence investment plan will do justice to his ambitions?
Context
The MP questioned the Secretary of State about the rising demands on defence and the need for additional support.
John Healey
The right hon. Gentleman is right about the rising demands on defence. That point was reflected in the Prime Minister's speech to the Munich conference last month, in which he said that hard power...is the currency of the age.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Given the Chancellor's plans for public spending and the allocation to various departments, what plans do the Chancellor and Chief Secretary to the Treasury have to address the £13 billion gap in the 2029-30 envelope?
Context
The Chancellor has pencilled in 0.3% real-terms growth in public spending in 2029-30, with health spending at its historical average, special educational needs and disabilities spend as per proposals, and defence at 3%. This leaves a 2.5% real-terms cut in unprotected Departments amounting to £13 billion.
James Murray
If the right hon. Gentleman looks at the plans that we set out through our spending review, he will be clear that we are increasing spending by £50 billion a year by 2028-29 compared with the previous Government's plans. At the same time, we are ensuring that taxpayers get value for money. We are making £3.9 billion of efficiency savings by 2029-30, rising to £5 billion by 2030-31.
Session: OBR Growth Projections Departmental Spending
View All Questions -->
Whether she has made an assessment of the potential impact of the Office for Budget Responsibility's growth projections for 2026 on future departmental spending levels.
Context
The question addresses the potential impact of the OBR's growth projections for 2026 on future departmental spending levels.
James Murray
At the spring forecast last week, my right hon. Friend the Chancellor showed that we have the right economic plan. Our plan has lowered inflation, borrowing, debt and debt interest payments. Our approach means that investment is up, helping to create the conditions for growth across the UK. Our firm approach to public spending is helping to keep public finances on a sustainable path.
Session: OBR Growth Projections Departmental Spending
View All Questions -->
Given the progress made by the Infected Blood Compensation Authority, will the Paymaster General update the House? Over £140 million has been spent by the inquiry. Has he had any conversations with Sir Brian Langstaff on when will be the right time to close down that inquiry, and whether he has wider lessons about the way that public inquiries function?
Context
The Infected Blood Compensation Authority has made progress and over £140 million has been spent by the inquiry.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
I am very grateful to the right hon. Gentleman, and I again pay tribute to him for his work, over some time, on this matter. He is right to highlight the significant progress that has been made on the speed of payments. He also highlights a really important point about how we will learn lessons. It is really important to learn lessons about public inquiries, their length, and providing value for money going forward.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Last week I met Lawrence Bowman, the chief executive of South Western Railway. I am keen to make sure that all the Government’s changes take positive effect in Salisbury and south Wiltshire, so that tracks, signal and stock can be improved. Will the Minister make sure that there is a suitable reference board along the commuting line into Waterloo, so that when Lawrence Bowman’s business plan is delivered, there will not be any delays when he has to interact with local authorities—a concern that he raised with me last week?
Context
The MP met Lawrence Bowman, chief executive of South Western Railway. The representative expressed concerns about delays when interacting with local authorities.
James Murray (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
I thank the right hon. Gentleman for raising the concerns of the services used by his constituents. I can assure him that I will look into those and get back to him.
Session: Rail Infrastructure
View All Questions -->
I am a former Chief Secretary to the Treasury, and I have seen reports that service chiefs are drafting letters to the Secretary of State warning of their concerns about whether enough money is going into defence. When the delayed defence investment plan is produced, will it give clarity on when the Government will reach the critical 3% threshold? To be credible, the plan needs to distinguish between the start of the next Parliament, which will be in 2029, and the end of it, which will be in 2034. If the plan does not do that, no one will take the aspiration seriously.
Context
Reports suggest that service chiefs are drafting letters to the Secretary of State warning about insufficient defence funding. The strategic importance and credibility of reaching the 3% GDP threshold for defence spending is under scrutiny.
The Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry (Luke Pollard)
The strategic defence review was written on the basis of reaching 3%, and that is a key part of how we are increasing defence spending. As a Government, we are increasing defence spending with £5 billion extra in our budget: it will be 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and 3% of GDP in the next Parliament. The strategic defence review will be implemented by the defence investment plan which will set out what capabilities we are buying and how we can improve our warfighting readiness.
Session: Defence Investment Plan
View All Questions -->
I welcome the changes to the listings review, but will the Minister look at what is happening with research and development tax credits and the efficiency of the delivery of those tax credits, because when the system does not work well enough, businesses are struggling before they get to listing?
Context
The MP welcomes changes to the listings review but is concerned about the efficiency of R&D tax credit delivery.
Lucy Rigby (The Economic Secretary to the Treasury)
I am grateful to the right hon. Member for his question, as I always am. We are doing an awful lot to support R&D in this country, including through many of the measures announced at the Budget. That includes putting an additional £7 billion into specific areas within the industrial strategy.
Session: Support for Entrepreneurs
View All Questions -->
I warmly welcome the innovation around the UK town of culture. My 10 seconds of fame as the Under Secretary of State for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport was in December 2017, when I went to Hull, the train broke down and I announced on “The One Show” that Coventry would be the UK city of culture. On behalf of Salisbury, which celebrates its 800th anniversary in 2027, may I ask if guidance can be given? Salisbury is a market town with a cathedral and we would love to apply, but given all our world-leading cultural assets we will need guidance about whether we qualify for the city or the town of culture.
Context
John Glen inquires about the eligibility and guidance for Salisbury's potential bid, considering its cultural assets.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts (Ian Murray)
The right hon. Gentleman is probably exaggerating when he says he had 10 seconds of fame—
John Glen
Maybe five seconds?
iMurray I will meet him halfway and say seven and a half seconds. These are very exciting projects. As I said, I have already been lobbied by Wigan and Scunthorpe as I have been sitting on the Front Bench, and now I am being lobbied by Salisbury, so that shows the excitement around both the competitions. That is why we introduced the town of culture competition. I look forward to bids coming in and I am happy for officials to work with the right hon. Gentleman to ensure that the bid goes to the right competition.
John Glen
Maybe five seconds?
iMurray I will meet him halfway and say seven and a half seconds. These are very exciting projects. As I said, I have already been lobbied by Wigan and Scunthorpe as I have been sitting on the Front Bench, and now I am being lobbied by Salisbury, so that shows the excitement around both the competitions. That is why we introduced the town of culture competition. I look forward to bids coming in and I am happy for officials to work with the right hon. Gentleman to ensure that the bid goes to the right competition.
Session: Cities and Towns of Culture
View All Questions -->
Following the decision to cancel the A303 improvements at Stonehenge, the focus in Wiltshire is on what else can be done, particularly around Salisbury, to remove some of the enormous congestion that exists that clearly impacts on economic growth. I was grateful for the engagement with National Highways last night on the Wyndham bridge plans, but can the Secretary of State set out what she sees as an alternative investment in Salisbury and south Wiltshire, following the A303 decision?
Context
The MP discusses the cancellation of A303 improvements and seeks alternatives to improve economic growth in Salisbury.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
I believe that the right hon. Gentleman has met my colleague, the former Minister for the future of roads, my hon. Friend the Member for Nottingham South (Lilian Greenwood), where they possibly discussed the A36 bypass around Salisbury. I am happy to meet him and talk to him further about any other ideas that he may have, in addition to the conversations he has already had with National Highways.
Session: Transport System Economic Growth
View All Questions -->
Will one of the Ministers meet with me? It is not right that charity investigations are not conducted properly when there are serious allegations.
Context
An international charity based in Wiltshire is facing serious historical allegations, and the current investigation falls between several agencies.
Lammy
I am very happy to look at that and ensure that a Minister meets with the right hon. Gentleman.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
When I was Economic Secretary, against the advice of officials I advanced something called the no interest loan scheme. I am given to believe that one of the Minister’s two predecessors since the general election may have suspended that valuable attempt to support the most vulnerable in society. Will she look at that again in advance of the Budget in three weeks?
Context
Against the advice of officials, John Glen advanced a no interest loan scheme when he was Economic Secretary. It is believed that one of Lucy Rigby's two predecessors may have suspended this scheme.
Lucy Rigby (Economic Secretary to the Treasury)
I am aware of the scheme that the right hon. Member talks about. He will appreciate that I cannot pre-empt the launch of the strategy tomorrow, nor indeed the Budget, but I would be more than happy to meet him to talk about it in more detail.
Session: Financial Inclusion Strategy
View All Questions -->
I recently met with Discover Adventure, a small business in Coombe Bissett which is genuinely struggling to engage with Government over the recent package travel regulations. It sits ambiguously between DBT, the Department for Transport and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport; indeed, a question was thrown back today, having been tabled in the Table Office. May I sincerely ask the Minister to help me locate the correct Minister to deal with the Association of Independent Tour Operators? This is a vital small business sector in this country, and it needs someone to engage with in Government over these regulations.
Context
A small business called Discover Adventure is struggling to engage with Government over recent package travel regulations.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Blair McDougall)
I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his constructive question; I am very happy to pursue that within Government. The wider point is that both the small business strategy and the industrial strategy are important because they are cross-Government strategies, as lots of sectors and individual businesses are facing challenges that are not just the responsibility of one Minister. I will certainly follow up on that.
Session: Small and Medium-sized Businesses
View All Questions -->
On Friday, I had the privilege of meeting Lawrence Bowman, the new chief executive of South Western Railway, who brings with him over 20 years of experience in the industry. We travelled from Salisbury to Tisbury. He says that he has to write a five-year plan. I am keen to ensure that that has the maximum impact and deals with the Tisbury loop. Salisbury is on the gateway to the south-west. I would be grateful if the Secretary of State delegated an official or a Minister to meet me so that, as the five-year plan is constructed, there are no unreasonable constraints or misunderstandings over what is necessary to ensure that the railway is at the centre of economic growth in the south-west.
Context
Lawrence Bowman, the new CEO of South Western Railway, has to write a five-year plan. John Glen is keen for this plan to address issues such as the Tisbury loop.
Heidi Alexander
I am pleased to hear that the right hon. Gentleman had a constructive meeting with the new South Western leadership. I was clear with Lawrence Bowman when he took up the job that I wanted him to meet local MPs along the route to talk about quick wins to improve services. I am very happy to ask officials from the Department for Transport to meet the right hon. Gentleman to have the conversations he seeks.
Session: Transport Economic Growth
View All Questions -->
I warmly welcome the new Economic Secretary to her role. Over the summer I looked at issues around liquidity in the London Stock Exchange and the deterioration that has happened. Given that only 15% of share trades attract stamp duty and much more trading is conducted in a dark environment, will the new Economic Secretary meet with me to hear my concerns and the concerns of those in the City so that we can move forward in a positive direction?
Context
Concerns have been raised about liquidity and trading practices in the London Stock Exchange, with only 15% of share trades attracting stamp duty.
Lucy Rigby (Economic Secretary to the Treasury)
I pay tribute to the right hon. Member’s work in this area, and I would be more than happy to meet with him to discuss those concerns.
Session: Financial Services Reform
View All Questions -->
Tina McKenzie, FSB policy chair, stated that for the first time in history more small businesses predict shrinking than expanding. Can you respond to this warning?
Context
The Federation of Small Businesses policy chair warned about the future shrinkage of small businesses.
Gareth Thomas
I respect Tina McKenzie and FSB, and we are closely working on measures for the small business strategy. The report paints a slightly more positive picture about bosses' confidence in SMEs. We will continue discussions with FSB for further detail.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I remain concerned that Sir Brian Langstaff has never asked me, as the Minister who was responsible for the design of the scheme, to account for the process that I adopted under the advice of civil servants. Does the Minister agree and what steps will he take to resolve these matters once and for all?
Context
The Minister responsible for the design of the scheme is concerned about continued lack of clarity and certainty for those affected, despite efforts to ensure engagement with representatives.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (The Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
I pay tribute to the work of my predecessor as Paymaster General in this area. I will take an approach that listens to suggestions without causing further undue delay to victims who have already waited too long. I am urgently looking at recommendations with a view to action.
Session: Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
View All Questions -->
Infantry regiments cite difficulty in recruiting in their traditional communities and recruitment grounds. Further to the exchange between the Secretary of State and the hon. Member for Epsom and Ewell (Helen Maguire), may I ask what more can be done to encourage, specifically, young British men to join the Army?
Context
Concern about difficulties in recruiting young men to join the Army, especially in traditional communities.
Luke Pollard
Last year 165,000 young people tried to join the British Army. We hired 9,500 of them, but 84% left because the process was too long. We have a superb “attract feature”, but we need to be better at converting, and we are making progress in that regard, although there is more to be done. I am happy to meet the right hon. Gentleman if he has any ideas that might support that.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
It is rare but very encouraging when a constituent comes into a surgery with some solutions. A couple of months ago, Elizabeth Cordle came into my surgery to talk about Corefulness, which is a series of short, simple, evidence-based exercise programmes to mature essential movement skills and help improve a child’s readiness to learn and break down barriers to learning. She is uncertain on how exactly it could be applied to assist with SEND, but she is absolutely clear that, through the national roll-out that she is leading, it has enormous potential. Will the Minister engage with me and Elizabeth so that as the strategy is being developed, we can examine whether that programme has a wider application?
Context
A constituent, Elizabeth Cordle, came to John Glen's surgery with a programme called Corefulness, which is a series of short, simple, evidence-based exercise programmes designed to mature essential movement skills and help improve a child’s readiness to learn and break down barriers to learning. She believes the programme has potential for wider application in addressing SEND.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
I agree that we need to take a constructive and collaborative approach in how we improve outcomes for all children, and intervene in children’s lives to ensure their needs are met at the earliest stage possible. We will support schools to do that in any way we can. I would be more than happy to engage with the right hon. Gentleman on his constructive suggestion.
Session: SEND Strategy
View All Questions -->
I welcome the progress that is being made by IBCA. Of course, the Minister is not directly responsible for how quickly that is rolling out. I note that IBCA has announced that its plan is to prioritise those infected who are still alive; indeed, my constituent Daryn Craik was contacted last week. I suggest that the Minister set up a metric that IBCA could agree to for the time between when people are contacted and when they receive their payment. He could then report that interval back to the House, which would hold IBCA to account on the delivery for these infected people, who have suffered for too long.
Context
The Minister is not directly responsible for the speed of compensation rollout but John Glen suggests setting up a metric to hold IBCA accountable.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
I again pay tribute to my predecessor as Paymaster General for the work he did in standing up for the victims of this scandal. He is right to raise the case of his constituent, and about the balance between respecting IBCA’s independence and the levers, assistance and support that Ministers, and I specifically, can offer to IBCA. I would be more than happy to have a discussion with him about his specific suggestion.
Session: Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
View All Questions -->
The dean of Salisbury cathedral visited me recently to tell me about a visit he had made to the Nassar family farm—the Tent of Nations—just south of Bethlehem, near the Palestinian village of Nahallin. He expressed grave concerns about the situation the family finds itself in. What conversations has the hon. Lady had with the Foreign Secretary about the steps the Government are taking to defend the rights of Palestinians in the west bank, and can she confirm that the Government will raise the abuses of their rights with the Israeli Government?
Context
The Dean of Salisbury Cathedral visited a Palestinian family farm, expressing grave concerns about the situation. The Foreign Secretary's team has been engaged on this issue.
Marsha De Cordova (The Second Church Estates Commissioner)
I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his question on this important issue. I continue to engage with the Foreign Secretary’s team and office on this issue, and I will write to the Government yet again, to ensure that they are defending and protecting the rights of all Palestinians. I think we can all agree that we need to see an end to the violence and the killing of innocent people.
Session: Christians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories
View All Questions -->
During their eight months in government, what assessment have the ministerial team made of the productivity of the civil service? What measures are they putting in place to improve it, and will the Minister report back to the House?
Context
The MP asks about the assessment of civil service productivity by the ministerial team.
Pat McFadden
I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for the work that he did on public sector productivity. It was probably essential given that in the eight years between 2016 and 2024 the previous Government employed an extra 131,000 civil servants, so it is quite right that we look at the productivity for the extra employment sanctioned by the last Government.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
One issue that has come up is the need for recipients of payments to sign non-disclosure agreements or terms. I am anxious that misunderstandings do not arise as a consequence of that. Can the Minister use his good offices to implore IBCA to explain why that happens? If IBCA cannot do that, perhaps he can explain to the House why such agreements might be necessary.
Context
John Glen visited the Infected Blood Compensation Authority on January 30 and was impressed by their professionalism. However, there is concern about recipients of payments signing non-disclosure agreements.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
I am very grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for his work as Paymaster General. Indeed, I was pleased to facilitate his recent visit to IBCA and am grateful to him for the constructive approach that he continues to take. On the specific issue that he raises around the contracts that IBCA has entered into, I can say that I entirely agree with him about the need for transparency, and that is something that I am re-emphasising to IBCA.
Session: Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
View All Questions -->
I warmly welcome the Government’s commitment to extend the help to save scheme, which has been running for seven years. Martin Lewis describes it as a very clever scheme and one that will work for many people. May I urge the Minister to look at what needs to be done to raise awareness of it, because the actual uptake is very low, given that the Government have been giving £1,200 over four years? It is critical that the right investment in promoting it happens, because it is such a brilliant scheme.
Context
The MP references the help to save scheme, a government initiative that has been in operation for seven years and aims to assist individuals with savings. The question is about raising awareness of this scheme.
Emma Reynolds (Economic Secretary to the Treasury)
I could not agree with one of my predecessors more. The right hon. Gentleman is absolutely correct. It is a great scheme and now that we are expanding it, we will take that opportunity to promote it better.
Session: Saving
View All Questions -->
On Monday, I met the director of Salisbury playhouse. She warmly welcomed the £85 million creative foundations fund, which she thought would be highly applicable to Salisbury playhouse, one of the few producing theatres in the south-west. She also told me about the 5,600 local children who were given subsidised tickets up to Christmas, and about her commitment to go out and raise funds from local investors in the arts. Will the Minister ensure that the value of the £85 million is maximised by combining it with visionary leaders like Rosa Corbishley at Salisbury playhouse, who will go out and get more money for the arts in our community?
Context
The director of Salisbury playhouse welcomed the £85 million creative foundations fund and highlighted that over 5,600 local children were given subsidised tickets up to Christmas.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism (Chris Bryant)
We warmly commend the work it is doing. As I have said, it is brilliant if we can get lots of kids coming into theatres. I want every single child, as part of their education, to be able to see live theatre and live music, because that is a part of what stirs their creative opportunities in life. Yes, we are looking at whether there are other ways of bringing in not only commercial money but philanthropic money to try to match-fund the funding that can come from government.
Session: Small Theatres and Performing Arts Venues
View All Questions -->
I thank the hon. Lady for her reply. I want to make her aware of a cross-party group that has been set up in Parliament, supported by the hon. Member for St Albans (Daisy Cooper), the hon. Member for Chester North and Neston (Samantha Dixon), and others who represent cathedral cities. We want to help the Second Church Estates Commissioner by providing greater evidence of the economic contribution of cathedrals. The first world war centenary cathedral repairs fund helped many cathedrals, including Salisbury. I hope that she will consider making representations for the creation of something similar to support our cathedrals in future.
Context
Research by the Association of English Cathedrals has shown that cathedrals’ 9.5 million visitors contributed around £235 million in additional expenditure to cathedrals and local businesses.
Marsha De Cordova (Second Church Estates Commissioner)
Nobody can deny that working cross-party is one of the best ways to get things done, so I am happy to support the right hon. Member and others in their endeavours. I am also happy to meet the group.
Session: Cathedrals Local Economic Contribution
View All Questions -->
I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his update to the House. I note the press release that went out yesterday, and no doubt there will be another one on 5 March, the day before the next Cabinet Office questions. However, I want to be constructive in my approach; I, too, will be visiting the Infected Blood Compensation Authority in Newcastle, next Thursday. The legal representatives of the complex web of stakeholders in the infected blood and affected communities remain concerned about the status of the arm’s length body, the appeals process and the role of victims in the oversight board. I am absolutely clear that the Infected Blood Compensation Authority has the necessary authority and will work through those issues. I urge the Minister to work with and reassure the victims’ representatives, so that the lawyers can be more constructive in supporting these people along this difficult pathway.
Context
The Infected Blood Compensation Authority has made progress but legal representatives are concerned about various aspects of the scheme including authority, appeals process and victim involvement in oversight board.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
Yes, the right hon. Gentleman is absolutely right. I look forward to the former Paymaster General’s reflections after his visit next week. I was delighted yesterday to meet the user consultants— three victims; two infected, one affected—who are certainly making their voice heard at the Infected Blood Compensation Authority. That voice of victims is hugely important, as is the constructive approach the right hon. Gentleman has indicated.
Session: Infected Blood Compensation Scheme Payments
View All Questions -->
After meeting the leader of Wiltshire council who expressed dissatisfaction with the distribution method used in the local government settlement, will the Minister meet me to better understand this issue and assist in relaying it back to my council?
Context
The leader of Wiltshire Council asserts that the Government's distribution formula for local government compensation unfairly disadvantages Wiltshire.
Jim McMahon
We acknowledge local government pressures after 14 years of poor management. The Treasury has committed £515 million to support councils with national insurance costs. I am more than happy to meet the right hon. Gentleman about his specific situation, aiming to understand and address any concerns.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Last year I visited the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust's Allerton project in Loddington. May I commend the contribution that it can make to defining sustainable intensification of agricultural food production? Perhaps it would be a suitable place for a DEFRA ministerial away day early in the new year, to help with the use strategy.
Context
The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust's Allerton project in Loddington is an example of sustainable food production.
Daniel Zeichner
I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his suggestion. I am a great admirer of the Allerton project and have been meaning to visit it for a long time.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
In the City of London, ensuring maximum people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds get into the industry is crucial. Recently met Vincent Keaveny, who made significant progress understanding data collection does not have to be expensive. Will the Secretary of State contact her ministerial colleagues and the Financial Conduct Authority about this opportunity?
Context
Vincent Keaveny, a recent Lord Mayor of the City of London, highlighted data collection processes that do not need to be expensive.
Bridget Phillipson
I am more than happy to do that. I congratulate the right hon. Gentleman on his work, as it is a cause we can all get behind.
Session: Future Earnings Impact of Socioeconomic Disadvantage
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Pension Investment in UK Equities
25 November 2025
Responding: Torsten Bell
Main Concerns
['UK pension funds are hugely important for millions of future pensioners and scale-up businesses seeking additional investment. However, only 4% of the second largest pool of pension capital in the world is allocated to UK assets, leading to under-investment in the UK economy compared to G7 peers by around £100 billion.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks for robust accountability on delivering changes and seeks assurance that legislation will ensure equality for constituents across regions like Northern Ireland.']
Fraud In Financial Services And Consumer Protection
22 March 2022
Main Concerns
['John Glen is concerned about the impact of fraud on trust within society, particularly highlighting the case of Midas Financial Services where Mr Greig perpetrated a large-scale fraud over several years. He acknowledges that this has caused great misery to many investors who were misled by false promises and inadequate oversight from regulatory bodies like RBS.']
Specific Asks
['Glen asks for a review of the appointed representative regime, urging the Treasury and FCA to strengthen the oversight principals have over their ARs and improve public information on authorised activities. He also requests more clarity in consumer protection measures.']
Credit Union Legislation And Financial Products For Decarbonisation
14 December 2021
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the need to continue working with credit unions and other organisations in my constituency. I have championed the no-interest loans scheme, which has been a success but needs further development. Additionally, there is a need for more financial products that can help decarbonise UK housing stock.']
Specific Asks
['I want to introduce legislation next year to address outstanding concerns within the credit union sector and bring forward Dormant Assets Bill proposals for funding access to affordable credit products, including those from credit unions. I also seek to update the Building Societies Act 1986 to provide building societies with greater flexibility in their funding model.']
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Jackdaw and Rosebank Oil and Gas Fields
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Opposition Day
07 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Defence Investment Plan
30 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Puberty Blockers
23 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
As a consultant paediatrician, Caroline Johnson highlights the ethical concerns surrounding the PATHWAYS clinical trial that involves administering puberty-suppressing hormones to children with gender...
Russian Attacks on Civilian Infrastructure
04 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Insurance Act 2015 (Amendment) Bill - Lords amendments and Government motions to disagree
15 April 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves that the House disagrees with Lords amendment 1. Does not provide additional details in the provided text.
Backbench Business
13 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr Stafford moved that the House believes SEND is an issue affecting every constituency, acknowledges challenges families face in navigating a complex and under-resourced system, and supports reforms ...
National Savings & Investments
26 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
75.5%
74 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
43
43.9% of votes
No Votes
31
31.6% of votes
Abstentions
24
24.5% 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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: 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
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
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: 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 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
54
Ministerial Questions Asked
135
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
36
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
+303% above average
This MP:
54
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2678% above average
This MP:
135
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+280% above average
This MP:
36
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+9% above average
This MP:
75.5
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 Glen's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.