John Slinger
MP for Rugby
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Can the Prime Minister update on how the Government are tackling illegal drugs misuse? Will he reassure parents that Labour will disagree with those who think legalising class A drugs is a good idea?
Context
The Green party advocates for the legalisation of drugs like heroin, while Labour disagrees.
Keir Starmer
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that issue. We are working relentlessly to tackle the supply of illegal drugs, and expanding police powers to test more suspects on arrest.
Assessment
reassurance regarding Labour's stance
Mentioning Green Party Policy
Session: PMQs
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Does the Deputy Prime Minister agree that the good work of this Labour Government to get the NHS back on its feet, with waiting lists down by 2,400 in my constituency, could be at risk due to Reform UK supporting privatisation?
Context
The MP highlights the progress made by the NHS in reducing waiting lists and improving services.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr David Lammy)
My hon. Friend is right—waiting lists are down by 3,200 in his local area—and he is also right to highlight the progress with our plan to get the NHS back on its feet. Thanks to Labour’s decisions, waiting lists have fallen by over 300,000 since the election, and we have delivered 5.2 million extra appointments, slashed ambulance response times and recruited 3,000 more GPs. Meanwhile, Reform cannot be trusted with our national health service.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister update the House on the work of the covid corruption commissioner? Does he agree with constituents in Rugby, Bulkington and surrounding villages that there should be no place in public life for people who exploited the pandemic?
Context
The Prime Minister recently confirmed that the commissioner is now investigating fraud involving bounce back and business support loans. John Slinger asks for an update on this work.
The Commissioner's Office (not specified by name)
We are focused on getting our money back. I can confirm that the commissioner is now investigating fraud involving bounce back and business support loans, and we will continue to go after the fraudsters.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not provide a detailed update on the work of the commissioner.
Limited Information
Session: PMQs
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Under this Labour Government, NHS waiting lists are down for five months in a row. The Hospital of St Cross in my constituency of Rugby is playing its part, but many of my constituents remain concerned about long waits in A&E, which we inherited from the Conservatives—especially those constituents who have to travel to the general hospital in Coventry. Will the Prime Minister set out how our plan for change to bring the NHS back into the heart of Government will help us to support the frontline and deliver better emergency care closer to the community, which our constituents have long called for?
Context
In his constituency, local NHS trust's waiting lists have decreased but concerns remain about long A&E waits inherited from the previous government. Constituents in Rugby face travel to Coventry for general hospital services.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
Our plan for change has already cut NHS waiting lists by almost 200,000. That has happened for five months in a row during the winter months. The local trust’s waiting lists in my hon. Friend’s area are down 93%, and he is doing great job for his community. We have already delivered 2 million extra appointments that we promised because of the record investment in the Budget.
Assessment
Did not directly address improving emergency care closer to the community or addressing A&E wait times specifically in Rugby.
Focused On Overall Nhs Improvements
Session: PMQs
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With one in eight young people across the country not in education, employment or training, people in Rugby are worried about a wasted generation. Too many people with disabilities and health conditions are not getting the help they need to get into work, so will the Prime Minister set out how this Government will give everyone who is able to work the support they need, provide compassion to those who cannot work, and fix the broken welfare system left behind by—the Conservatives?
Context
The MP references high unemployment among young people and concerns about disabled individuals not receiving adequate support to enter the workforce. He cites statistics on youth NEETs (not in education, employment or training) rates.
The Prime Minister (Rishi Sunak)
We will support those who need support but help those who can work into work. We inherited a system that is broken, economically and morally, and we must and will reform it with clear principles to protect those who need protecting and support those who can work back to work.
Assessment
Specific details on how the government plans to provide support for disabled individuals into work were not provided.
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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As a semi-retired violinist and rock musician asking a semi-retired multi-instrumentalist, I feel confident that the Prime Minister shares my belief in the importance of music education. Does he agree that, as we unleash the potential of our country, we must invest in the educational infrastructure of creative arts subjects so that they are accessible to all?
Context
John Slinger, a semi-retired violinist and rock musician, emphasized the importance of music education in his constituency.
Keir Starmer
I am not sure about the description “semi-retired”, although that may be the wish of the Conservative party. What I know from personal experience is that music, the creative subjects and art are really important not only for the pleasure and knowledge that they give to children and young people but for the experience of working in groups and leadership. That is why we are determined to ensure that they are counted as subjects again in the curriculum, which will encourage many more schools to provide them in the curriculum and enrich the futures of children and young people across the country.
Assessment
The visit request was not addressed specifically.
Session: PMQs
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Does the Minister agree that the defence growth deal is a chance for Northern Ireland businesses to access the wider UK defence supply chain? What efforts is he making to achieve that?
Context
The MP inquires about opportunities for local businesses to participate in the UK defence supply chain via the defence growth deal.
Matthew Patrick
I certainly agree with my hon. Friend; many opportunities are arising from the defence growth deal, on which I have worked closely. Many businesses, small and large, across Northern Ireland have dual-servicing capability and they have a real opportunity here. We are supporting them every step of the way.
Session: Manufacturing Supply Chain 2026-07-08
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What discussions has the Minister had with Cabinet colleagues on the domestic supply chain for manufacturing in Northern Ireland?
Context
The MP seeks clarity on discussions about supporting local manufacturers and their integration into domestic supply chains post-Brexit.
Matthew Patrick
I take every opportunity to champion Northern Ireland's brilliant manufacturing sector, and whether it is Denroy, Airbus or Thales, or even Harland & Wolff, which has just announced that it is bidding for a major UK-Dutch shipbuilding deal, there is a lot to champion.
Session: Manufacturing Supply Chain 2026-07-08
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When I visited NDT Equipment Ltd in my constituency, the director Dan Lenton showed me the ultrasonic test calibration blocks and reference pieces that it uses and supplies to manufacturers in a wide range of sectors in the UK and abroad. This steel is not manufactured in the UK; it is imported and is high grade. I know Ministers are being flexible and talking to hon. Members. Will the Minister please consider the grade of steel that the company uses, which I believe is EN3B, and exempt it from the tariffs?
Context
The company NDT Equipment Ltd, which imports high-grade EN3B steel for ultrasonic test calibration blocks and reference pieces, faces potential tariffs. The Minister is being flexible and talking to hon. Members.
Chris Bryant
We have already laid out our steel trade measures, which are there to ensure that the UK has a steel industry. This is vital for our economic future. I want to make clear that 73% of all steel imports into the UK are not in scope of the measure, but I will, of course, look at this specific issue. If my hon. Friend would like to have a meeting with me and officials, we can make sure that that happens.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-02
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Last week I attended the Warwickshire employer and stakeholder conference, where we heard from students, alumni and businesses who are providing time to young people so that they can gain the skills they need—it was very inspiring and moving. Does my right hon. Friend agree that more needs to be done to encourage businesses to provide even more hours? Warwickshire College has said that this is a real challenge.
Context
The Warwickshire employer and stakeholder conference highlighted the need for more business hours for young people to gain necessary skills.
Pat McFadden
I agree with my hon. Friend that we need to work with businesses. I want this to be seen as a national cause, a national endeavour, and a good partnership between business and Government, because it is in the whole country's interests to make maximum use of the very best resource we have, which is the talents of the British people themselves.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-06-29
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that in the age of fast news, disinformation and misinformation, we need more programmes such as “The World Tonight”, not fewer? Does she agree that the BBC perhaps ought to look at the vast salaries they pay their stars, both in entertainment and in news?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the BBC's ability to counter disinformation, especially with cuts impacting programmes like 'The World Tonight'.
Lisa Nandy
I concur with my hon. Friend's view that, now more than ever, the BBC's role in providing trusted news and information is essential. For all the challenges that the BBC has faced, it remains the most trusted source of news in this country, and one of the most trusted sources of news across the world. I recognise that the BBC has had some serious challenges to deal with, and has had to make some difficult decisions, but this Government are determined to support its efforts by ensuring that it is adequately funded.
Session: BBC Funding
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I welcome the new powers for councils to seize vehicles involved in fly-tipping and the Government's action to further tackle waste criminals, including guidance on covert surveillance, CCTV and drones—something on which I have campaigned on behalf of my constituents in Rugby. There have been several incidences of illegal waste sites and fly-tipping in and around Rugby, and I commend the Environment Agency for clearing it up, but can the Minister confirm how the powers will be used, how councils will be supported and, if they do not enforce action against waste criminals, how they will be helped to do so?
Context
The question follows the introduction of new powers for councils to seize vehicles involved in fly-tipping and guidance on covert surveillance, CCTV, and drones. John Slinger highlights several incidences of illegal waste sites and fly-tipping around Rugby.
Mary Creagh
I thank my hon. Friend and constituency neighbour for his question. I know about the issues around Coventry and Rugby, and I share his frustration at fly-tippers. Courts now have the powers to issue up to nine penalty points on fly-tippers' driving licences, to ensure that they think twice before doing a job for their mates at the weekend. We expect these powers to be used consistently. We have the National Fly-Tipping Prevention Group, and the Environment Agency is stepping in on serious cases through increased funding, stronger powers and joint action.
Session: Waste Crime
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I welcome the new powers for councils to seize vehicles involved in fly-tipping and the Government's action to further tackle waste criminals, including guidance on covert surveillance, CCTV and drones—something on which I have campaigned on behalf of my constituents in Rugby. There have been several incidences of illegal waste sites and fly-tipping in and around Rugby, and I commend the Environment Agency for clearing it up, but can the Minister confirm how the powers will be used, how councils will be supported and, if they do not enforce action against waste criminals, how they will be helped to do so?
Context
The question follows the introduction of new powers for councils to seize vehicles involved in fly-tipping and guidance on covert surveillance, CCTV, and drones. John Slinger highlights several incidences of illegal waste sites and fly-tipping around Rugby.
Mary Creagh
I thank my hon. Friend and constituency neighbour for his question. I know about the issues around Coventry and Rugby, and I share his frustration at fly-tippers. Courts now have the powers to issue up to nine penalty points on fly-tippers' driving licences, to ensure that they think twice before doing a job for their mates at the weekend. We expect these powers to be used consistently. We have the National Fly-Tipping Prevention Group, and the Environment Agency is stepping in on serious cases through increased funding, stronger powers and joint action.
Session: Waste Crime
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Will the Secretary of State join me in commending its work in organising with me a jobs fair on 16 April from 10 am till 1 pm at the Indian community centre in Rugby?
Context
Jobcentre Plus is working to reduce the number of NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).
Pat McFadden
I have already praised Rugby once during this session; let me do so a second time. I cannot promise to attend my hon. Friend's jobs fair, but I can say that such fairs play a valuable role in bringing together employers who need staff with potential employees who need jobs. I saw that myself in the very sizeable Blackpool jobs fair that I attended a week or so ago.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that the Government must go further to support apprenticeships in the vital defence sector?
Context
GE Vernova and Rugby college are ramping up their apprenticeship schemes.
Matthew Patrick
My hon. Friend is entirely right. Some of the apprentices whom I met just last week told me that, over four years, they were more than £100,000 better off as a result of taking their apprenticeships. It is good for them, good for businesses and good for the country.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy 2025
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What assessment he has made of the potential impact of the defence industrial strategy 2025 on Northern Ireland?
Context
The defence industrial strategy aims to boost the UK's defence capabilities and economy.
Matthew Patrick
The defence of our country is always the first duty of any Government. Last week I met businesses big and small, the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry and representative bodies, as well as our great universities, to discuss how the defence growth deal for Northern Ireland can pack the biggest punch possible. With £250 million across five deals, including one in Northern Ireland, there is a huge potential here, and I am determined that we will seize it.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy 2025
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In my constituency, I can combine rugby and gin, so I am grateful to the Chancellor for the measures in her Budget to help the hospitality trade and small businesses. Following, my visit to the family-owned Rugby Distillery—branded and flavoured around the game—can I ask what steps her Department could try to level the playing field, such as by extending small producer relief to alcohol above the 8.5% ABV limit? Small-scale producers find it harder to compete fairly with big producers, and we must help them to tackle their challenges and convert their entrepreneurial spirit into greater success.
Context
The MP visited the family-owned Rugby Distillery, a local business that combines rugby and gin production. The distillery faces challenges in competing with larger producers due to alcohol content restrictions.
Lucy Rigby (The Economic Secretary to the Treasury)
As someone who enjoys both rugby and gin, sometimes at the same time, I pay tribute to my hon. Friend’s support for the businesses in his constituency. To support spirits producers, the Government have put in place a range of measures. As for small producer relief, I know that the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury is open to evidence on the operation of the new system. I should add that the Government plan to evaluate the reforms in late 2026, which will be three years after they took effect.
Session: Support for Entrepreneurs
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I declare an interest as chair of the all-party parliamentary group on the Kurdistan region in Iraq, and as I led a delegation there. The 2005 federal Iraqi constitution agreed in a popular vote to underpin Kurdish rights. We were told that Baghdad deliberately withholds salary payments to public employees in the region. The Foreign Secretary visited Erbil when she was Home Secretary, and knows how important this part of Iraq is to our security. Does she agree that we need our Kurdish ally to be strong and respected in a federal Iraq, and that a better relationship there would enable vital reform, for the benefit of that region and, indeed, our own country?
Context
Slinger highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong and respected relationship with the Kurdish region in Iraq for security reasons.
Hamish Falconer
The relationship between Baghdad, Erbil and Sulaymaniyah is of vital importance. I continue to discuss these issues with the Iraqi Foreign Minister, and Iraqi Kurdish politicians as well. We will continue to do so, and I look forward to visiting the region shortly.
Session: Topical Questions
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Planning authorities such as Rugby borough council are working hard to ensure that new housing developments contain as much affordable and social housing as possible. They work in partnership with housing developers, Government bodies such as Homes England, and others to that end, though it is not always an easy process and it often takes far too long. Will my right hon. Friend outline how the Planning and Infrastructure Bill will enhance their work, so that we can build as many high-quality affordable and social homes as possible and ensure that more people, particularly young people, get the homes they deserve?
Context
The MP noted the efforts of planning authorities such as Rugby borough council in working with housing developers to build more affordable and social housing. He highlighted that this process is often challenging and time-consuming.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Angela Rayner)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right that the Planning and Infrastructure Bill will unlock a new scale of housing and infrastructure delivery across all tenures to help build 1.5 million homes in this Parliament. We are also taking action in the Bill to improve local decision making by modernising planning committees and ensuring that planning departments are well resourced by allowing local planning authorities to set their own planning fees.
Session: Building Social and Affordable Homes
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When I visited HMP Onley, the nearest prison to my constituency, I had the great privilege to be given a tour by the governor, Mark Allen and to see the excellent work of the staff. I wonder whether the Secretary of State would comment on the importance of offerings by organisations and companies such as Greene King which provide cafés and restaurants so that prisoners can be rehabilitated while they are in prison.
Context
MP John Slinger visited HMP Onley, a local prison, and witnessed the work of Greene King in providing cafés and restaurants for prisoners.
Nicholas Dakin
Greene King does outstanding work, as do other organisations in our prison service. They are important partners in delivering better justice.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister join me in praising all the staff past and present, the council’s chief officer for leisure and wellbeing, Tom Kittendorf, and the portfolio holder, Councillor Maggie O’Rourke, on the recent 25th anniversary of the Rugby art gallery and museum? I was glad to attend and pay tribute to staff for the huge contribution they make to the three C’s: creativity, culture and community. Does my right hon. Friend agree that municipally run institutions such as that are gems shining bright in our towns, and that this Government will do all they can to empower them?
Context
The Rugby art gallery and museum celebrated its 25th anniversary, with contributions from staff and volunteers. The facility is a gem in the community, providing access to arts and culture.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Lisa Nandy)
I absolutely share my hon. Friend’s commitment to municipal facilities, which are often the only access that people have to amazing sports, art, culture, museums and galleries. Like him, this Government are determined to do everything we can to support them.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that we are driving growth across every part of the country with investments at the spending review, including £15.6 billion for transport projects in city regions and additional support I saw myself in Warwickshire with the launch of an electric bus fleet, including buses built at Alexander Dennis in this country; and that this shows a Government who are investing in the future prosperity of our country?
Context
The MP references specific government investments, including £15.6 billion for transport projects in city regions and additional support seen in Warwickshire.
Rachel Reeves
It was great to be with my hon. Friend in Warwickshire just a couple of weeks ago to welcome some of the investment, through our industrial strategy and our spending review, which will turbocharge the British economy, creating more good jobs and paying decent wages in all parts of the country, including in Warwickshire.
Session: Topical Questions
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Towns like Rugby have a proud industrial heritage and an exciting present, and we are building a dynamic and sustainable business and industrial future. It was very welcome that the Chancellor revised the Green Book to make sure that investment and economic growth are spread more fairly across the country, beyond the major city regions. Can my hon. Friend set out what support may be available for towns like Rugby to attract and encourage people to start and grow their own businesses—for example, entrepreneurship hubs in towns rather than cities, so that they can play a role, and targeted tax reliefs for firms setting up in places like Rugby?
Context
The question pertains to the support provided by the government to entrepreneurship incubators in towns such as Rugby, which has a proud industrial heritage and an exciting present.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Gareth Thomas)
I welcome my hon. Friend’s commitment to championing entrepreneurs in his constituency. He may know that we already have some 41 growth hubs across England, including the Coventry and Warwickshire growth hub, which provides a bespoke service for first-time entrepreneurs, tailored advice and support to start-ups and those wanting to scale up a business. We are determined to do more to help entrepreneurs and will set out our plans in our SME strategy, which is due to be published relatively shortly.
Session: Support for Entrepreneurs
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The bands I played in never quite got to a European tour—[Interruption.] Artists tell me how much they and their teams have suffered in the disastrous post-Brexit landscape for touring artists. We have the best bands and artists in the world and they bring huge joy to us here. They want to share the love abroad and in so doing bring a lot of money to the UK economy. Will my hon. Friend assure me that he is acting with haste? As Shakespeare said, All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances.
Context
Artists and their teams have suffered due to the post-Brexit landscape for touring artists.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism (Chris Bryant)
And, “one man in his time plays many parts”. Clearly, my hon. Friend is one of those people. We are determined to sort this out. I know that there are many of us who fear that we lost many things when Brexit happened. However, there are other wise words from Shakespeare. As Queen Margaret in Henry VI said: “wise men neer sit and wail their loss, but cheerily seek how to redress their harms”.
Session: Topical Questions
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There are incredible dividends from digital for government administration and service delivery, but some older and vulnerable constituents tell me that they cannot use smartphones or are not online and are worried about being left behind. I am liaising with Citizens Advice, the local council, Age Concern and others to take action locally to help them. Can the Minister reassure me that sufficient advice, support and funding will be made available to my constituents to ensure digital inclusion as we rightly seek to utilise digital far more effectively?
Context
Some older and vulnerable constituents are worried about being left behind due to their inability to use smartphones or access the internet. John Slinger is liaising with Citizens Advice, the local council, Age Concern, and others to take action locally.
The Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms (Chris Bryant)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. There are older people, and others for that matter, who either have no online access or do not have a smartphone, who would not be able to access things in a digital world. That is why we introduced a digital inclusion plan, and that is one of the key differences between a Labour Government and a Tory Government: they did not have any interest in digital inclusion and they did not have a plan for 10 years, and we brought one in.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will my right hon. Friend join me in congratulating Dawn Thurkettle and the Rugby Street Pastors, and particularly the recently commissioned pastors, on all the excellent work that they do to lower the temperature on nights out in our town? They show kindness and listen to people on our streets, and play an important role in our community.
Context
The Rugby Street Pastors do important work in their community by ensuring the safety of people on nights out.
Diana Johnson
I would be delighted to pay tribute to Dawn and the Rugby Street Pastors for their excellent work. Many street pastors around the country do really important work in keeping people safe and secure on nights out.
Session: Topical Questions
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What measures will his Department consider to support councils that find themselves in viability negotiations with developers, who sometimes push down the quota of social homes and, indeed, affordable homes?
Context
John Slinger expresses concern about councils facing viability negotiations with developers who push down the quota of social and affordable homes.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
I am aware of several schemes in my hon. Friend’s constituency that are having viability issues. Financial support is indeed available. While the £500 million of new in-year funding for the affordable homes programme announced at the Budget is already oversubscribed as a result of significant demand from housing providers across the country, the further allocation of £300 million, which we announced last month, will help ensure that more social and affordable homes are delivered. In the case that my hon. Friend describes, I would encourage both his local authority and local social housing providers to bid for that money.
Session: Social Housing
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I have had the privilege of assisting the brilliant volunteers at the Make Lunch organisation in Rugby, which provides holiday lunch clubs with play activities for entire families, including those with complex needs. Last summer it fed 25 families, last Christmas it bought slow cookers for families and this Christmas it is offering hampers. They treat families with dignity. As with food banks, is it not an indictment of the record of the last Government that such charitable support is needed in the first place?
Context
The MP highlights the Make Lunch organisation in Rugby which provides holiday lunch clubs and play activities for families, including those with complex needs.
Liz Kendall
Make Lunch sounds like an absolutely brilliant charity, and I ask my hon. Friend to pass on our great thanks for its fantastic work. That work is urgent, because the Child Poverty Action Group estimates that a quarter of children in my hon. Friend's constituency are growing up poor. Our child poverty strategy will be published in the spring, but we will not wait to act. That is why the Budget announced a new fair repayment rate to slash universal credit deductions and give 1.2 million of the poorest households £420 on average a year, lifting thousands of children out of poverty.
Session: Child Poverty
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I am concerned about the consequences of 14 years of neglect of our Prison and Probation Service by the Conservative party: critical overcrowding due to lack of investment; staff at all levels feeling exhausted, scared, demotivated, disenfranchised and undervalued; officers facing unacceptably high levels of violence and drug abuse; bullying between prisoners. What is being done to rectify these issues?
Context
Prison overcrowding and lack of investment have led to negative impacts on staff morale, safety, and prisoner management.
Nicholas Dakin
My hon. Friend tells it how it is. The Conservative party left our Prison and Probation Service in a mess. Our job, on behalf of the British people, is to clean up that mess. That is what we are doing.
Session: Supporting Prison Officers
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I am concerned about the consequences of 14 years of neglect of our Prison and Probation Service by the Conservative party: critical overcrowding due to lack of investment; staff at all levels feeling exhausted, scared, demotivated, disenfranchised and undervalued; officers facing unacceptably high levels of violence and drug abuse; bullying between prisoners. What is being done to rectify these issues?
Context
Prison overcrowding and lack of investment have led to negative impacts on staff morale, safety, and prisoner management.
Nicholas Dakin
My hon. Friend tells it how it is. The Conservative party left our Prison and Probation Service in a mess. Our job, on behalf of the British people, is to clean up that mess. That is what we are doing.
Session: Supporting Prison Officers
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Many high street businesses want to continue accepting cash, and so do many of my residents, particularly the elderly, disabled and vulnerable. What steps are the Government taking to ensure that the Post Office can better offer banking services on the high street to cater for spenders and recipients of cash?
Context
High street businesses and residents, particularly the elderly, disabled, and vulnerable, want to continue accepting cash. The Citizens Advice Bureau is hearing concerns from elderly residents.
Gareth Thomas
Given that almost 9,500 bank branches closed over the past 14 years, on the Conservative party's watch, it has increasingly been left to the Post Office to provide vital banking services on the high street. The banking industry recognises its responsibility to work with us to ensure that sub-postmasters and the Post Office have what they need to meet critical cash and banking needs of constituents.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that while that is good work, my council is ultimately able only to tread water? My constituents who need decent, affordable social homes desperately need a Government who will help councils reverse this trend.
Context
The MP reported that Rugby borough council has a waiting list for social houses, and they are working hard but only treading water.
Angela Rayner
I once got stranded in Rugby on a train, so I have visited that wonderful area before. I am in complete agreement with my hon. Friend; councils should not be losing homes through right to buy quicker than they can be replaced. It is great to hear that councillors in Rugby are working hard to meet demand.
Session: Social Housing Supply
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What steps her Department is taking to increase the supply of social housing. My constituents who need decent, affordable homes desperately need a Government who will help councils reverse this trend.
Context
The MP noted that Rugby borough council has a waiting list for social houses and is working to meet demand, but progress is slow.
Angela Rayner
This Government are getting on with fixing the mess the Tories left behind. We will deliver the biggest increase in social and affordable house building in a generation, and at the Budget this week the Chancellor will set out the next steps, including an additional £500 million for the existing affordable homes programme to deliver up to 5,000 new social and affordable homes.
Session: Social Housing Supply
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Community Cohesion
03 March 2026
Responding: Miatta Fahnbulleh
Main Concerns
['John Slinger is concerned about the deteriorating sense of community cohesion in the UK, particularly in Rugby, where he represents. He highlighted the impact of technology and social media on human interaction, citing that 83% of the population now lives in urban areas, leading to a sense of alienation. He also expressed worry about the misuse of flags and the impact of divisive rhetoric from figures like Elon Musk and Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, noting that these have left constituents feeling scared and intimidated. Roz Savage is concerned about the weakening of community cohesion in the UK, citing rising mistrust, loneliness, and anger. She highlights the negative impacts of infrastructure failures and unmanaged growth, and the erosion of trust in public services and the voting system. She mentions the example of Stronger South Cotswolds, an initiative in her constituency aimed at fostering connection and resilience through four pillars: food and farming, health and wellbeing, flood resilience and water issues, and community energy and nature conservation. She notes the importance of local legends and community initiatives in delivering services and fostering relationships across different backgrounds. Leigh Ingham is concerned about the impact of economic pressures and global tensions on community cohesion in Stafford. She recalls the 2001 race riots in Burnley and emphasises the importance of community cohesion as the difference between a town that can pull together during tough times and one that fractures. She highlights the importance of public trust, dialogue, and leadership in maintaining cohesion, and cites the third-worst cuts to youth services in Staffordshire as an example of the economic pressures faced by the community. Ayoub Khan is concerned about the damaging impact of political language and misinformation on community cohesion in Birmingham. He mentions the bin strikes and the Maccabi Tel Aviv saga, where legitimate concerns were smeared as extremism. Khan highlights the importance of the Hillsborough law for transparency and honesty in public life. He also points out the neglect and deprivation faced by his constituency, Birmingham Perry Barr, which has been left behind in Pride in Place funding despite high levels of deprivation.']
Specific Asks
['Slinger asked the Minister to update the House on the work being done by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to address issues related to community cohesion. Savage calls on the Government to fund local groups, support community ownership of energy, land, and assets, invest in youth services and intergenerational spaces, involve community voices in planning decisions, restore trust in environmental regulation, and devolve power to local communities. Leigh Ingham asks the Government to take steps to ensure that towns like Stafford are supported with real investment and opportunity, rather than becoming targets for those who seek to inflame resentment and prejudice for political gain. Khan asks the Minister to address the funding issue for Birmingham Perry Barr, arguing that the constituency should receive Pride in Place funding given its high levels of deprivation.']
Government and Democracy Education
20 November 2024
Responding: Catherine McKinnell
Main Concerns
['The education of government and democracy in schools is critical for the functioning of a healthy democratic society. John Slinger highlights that only 16% of 16 to 17-year-olds are on the electoral register, while 39% of 16 to 24-year-olds say they are not interested in politics. He also notes a decline in citizenship education since its introduction as a statutory subject and the need for better resourced and prioritized teaching.']
Specific Asks
['Slinger asks the government to confirm citizenship as a statutory subject at all stages of the national curriculum, provide guidance and resources to schools on what they are expected to teach, ensure coherence across the maintained sector, reform progress 8 measures, incentivize training for specialist teachers in citizenship education.']
British Steel
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Death of Ann Widdecombe
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Police Leadership Commission Report
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
18 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That this House has considered the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme. The debate highlights the need for just compensation and recognition of those affected by contaminated blood produ...
Regional Innovation and Growth
18 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Grooming Gangs: Independent Inquiry
18 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Russian Shadow Fleet
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East
09 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Urgent care provision in Rugby
10 February 2026
The petition welcomes the investment in services at the Hospital of St Cross in Rugby but expresses concern about the need for further improvements, particularly in urgent care provision led by doctor...
View Full Petition -->
Construction Industry Training Board: Funding
04 February 2026
The petition addresses the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) decision to cease funding for local training groups, which are crucial for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in the c...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
83.1%
69 of 83 votes
Aye Votes
27
32.5% of votes
No Votes
42
50.6% of votes
Abstentions
14
16.9% of votes
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
6
PMQs Asked
27
Ministerial Questions Asked
171
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
83
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+63% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+98% above average
This MP:
27
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-21% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3433% above average
This MP:
171
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-18% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+20% above average
This MP:
83.1
Average:
69.5
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks John Slinger's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.