Josh Newbury
MP for Cannock Chase
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
My constituent Connor Edwards lives with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and craniocervical instability which means his head is slowly falling off his body. Once enjoying fishing and mountain biking, at 30 he is now largely bed-bound and says his condition has destroyed his quality of life. He is crowdfunding for treatment in Spain because the NHS cannot give him help. Will the Prime Minister ensure I, Connor and EDS charities have a meeting with the Minister to discuss what more we can do to give thousands of people like Connor their freedom back?
Context
Connor Edwards, a constituent of Josh Newbury, suffers from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and craniocervical instability. He is crowdfunding for treatment in Spain due to the NHS's inability to provide necessary help.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I have read through the details of Connor’s case which has just been summarised. It is heartbreaking. I thank my hon. Friend for consistently campaigning and championing all those affected. I will make sure that he gets the meetings he needs so that we can hear from Connor and others and learn from their experience.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not specify what measures would be taken to improve treatment for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome patients within the NHS.
Session: PMQs
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Last year, this Labour Government delivered justice for members of the mineworkers’ pension scheme, and 45,000 members of the similar British coal staff superannuation scheme are keen to see their £2.3 billion investment reserve returned to them, which could boost coalfield communities such as mine in Cannock Chase. Will the Prime Minister meet retired miners, trustees and coalfield MPs to discuss what can be done for BCSSS members up and down the country?
Context
The question concerns the issue of returning an investment reserve to retired miners who are members of the British coal staff superannuation scheme, affecting 45,000 individuals with a £2.3 billion reserve.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this issue. I was pleased that the first increased payments to mineworkers’ pension scheme members were made at the end of November. I understand the strong feelings on the British coal staff superannuation scheme, which is why the Minister for industry met the trustees last year. We will work with the coal staff trustees to consider their proposals once the new mineworkers’ pension scheme arrangements have been agreed.
Assessment
The questioner requested a specific meeting and commitment, but the PM did not confirm one.
Will Work With
Session: PMQs
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Fourteen years of Conservative party gutting local government has left councils making impossible choices. My constituents are shocked by the proposed closure of cultural facilities. Will the Prime Minister ask the Culture Minister for a meeting to see what can be done to save our museum and theatre?
Context
Local government cuts have led to proposed closures of the Museum of Cannock Chase and Prince of Wales theatre.
Keir Starmer
Closures will be a huge loss. £4 billion in additional funding for local government was announced, real-terms increase in core spending power.
Assessment
Specific meeting with Culture Minister to save cultural facilities
Session: PMQs
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Will the Secretary of State ensure that, as we build new homes across the country, the planning system ensures that green spaces are available to all and maintained properly for decades to come?
Context
Residents of new estates like Norton Hall Meadow have reported neglect of woodlands managed by private management companies.
Angela Rayner
The Government are committed to reducing the prevalence of private estate management arrangements and ending the injustice of fleecehold. We consulted on the proposals to increase the adoption of amenities and new estates, and we will respond in due course.
Session: Planning Green Spaces 2026-09-07
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What steps her Department is taking to ensure that the planning system provides green spaces for communities.
Context
The questioner is concerned about the role of the planning system in providing green spaces for communities.
Angela Rayner
Our new national planning policy framework strengthens support for green spaces by requiring local plans to set standards for green infrastructure and increase support for new and improved community facilities and public service infrastructure.
Session: Planning Green Spaces 2026-09-07
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Does the Chancellor agree that continuing to look at how we can support affordable bus travel for constituents like mine in Cannock Chase will be very important even beyond the great summer break? This includes recognising the ongoing need for affordable transport solutions post-summer.
Context
The question arises from the need to continue supporting families and farmers by addressing transportation costs, particularly focusing on free bus travel for children.
Rachel Reeves
As my hon. Friend knows, we are investing £3 billion in local bus services to both improve the service for passengers and freeze bus fares until at least March next year. This summer there will be unlimited free travel for children aged between five and 15 in his Cannock Chase constituency and across the country.
Session: Household Budgets
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What steps has she taken to help support households with the cost of living? This includes measures like cutting VAT on summer activities and maintaining the triple lock.
Context
The question arises from the ongoing challenges faced by households due to high energy costs, inflation, and global economic pressures.
Rachel Reeves
The Government recognise that energy costs, inflation and global pressures continue to squeeze household budgets. That is why we have taken careful, targeted action through the great British summer savings package which launches on Thursday, cutting VAT on summer activities so that adventure parks, soft play centres, cinemas and theatres will be cheaper, alongside the work we are doing to maintain the triple lock and to lift children out of poverty.
Session: Household Budgets
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Many of us on the Labour Benches have long argued for a boost to paternity leave, which is one of the proudest achievements of the last Labour Government, but one group being let down badly is self-employed dads. Just one in six of them take leave after their children are born, and it is unpaid leave, meaning that they face a drop in income of more than £1,000 just for taking a couple of weeks off. Introducing paid paternity leave for self-employed dads would cost £38 million at most, and possibly as little as £13 million, but it would be a huge win for dads, mums and their babies. Will the Minister consider that as part of the ongoing parental leave review?
Context
Self-employed dads often face financial difficulties when taking unpaid paternity leave.
Kate Dearden
I thank my hon. Friend for his campaigning on this issue. As I have mentioned, the Government's parental leave and pay review is under way and will conclude in early 2027. We know that the parental leave system needs to be improved and recognise that the current system does not do enough to support the many dads and partners who want to be hands-on and actively involved in caring for their children. That is why the review is so important. It will consider all current and upcoming parental leave and pay entitlements, looking at options to improve the support available to British working families and whether the support available meets the needs of working families who do not qualify for the entitlements, such as self-employed parents, as was outlined by my hon. Friend.
Session: Parental Rights at Work
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What recent progress has been made on improving parental rights at work?
Context
The question follows recent government initiatives on parental rights and seeks to understand progress made.
Kate Dearden
This Government are committed to strengthening rights for parents. In April, we are introducing bereaved partner's paternity leave and making unpaid parental leave and paternity leave day one rights, bringing more than 1 million parents into scope. Next year, we will further improve protections for pregnant women and those returning from maternity leave, and the parental leave and pay review will conclude, giving us recommendations and informing our next steps.
Session: Parental Rights at Work
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I have spoken with teachers and special educational needs and disabilities co-ordinators across Cannock Chase, so I know that many schools, such as Longford primary in Cannock and St Joseph's primary in Rugeley, already have SEND hubs, but with no additional funding, they cannot offer the holistic, teacher-led support they would like to. Can the Secretary of State confirm that local authorities will be given funding to commission specialist bases to finally give many children with SEND needs the support that will allow them to thrive in their local school?
Context
The questioner has spoken with teachers and SEND coordinators in Cannock Chase who are concerned about the lack of additional funding for SEND support.
Bridget Phillipson
Yes, I am happy to give my hon. Friend that commitment. We will ensure that every secondary school, and a similar number of primary schools, have that kind of support, and we will work with local authorities to set up specialist bases. As part of our £3.7 billion high-need capital investment, we will create 60,000 new specialist places nationwide to make sure that more children get the specialist support they deserve.
Session: School SEND Provision
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Staffordshire's youth service was shut down 13 years ago. With half a billion pounds committed to reinvestment through Young Futures hubs, youth centres, and more youth workers, will the Minister assure constituents that areas like Cannock Chase with no youth service will benefit from this investment?
Context
Youth services have been slashed and shut down completely in areas like Cannock Chase, and Staffordshire missed out on the better youth spaces programme.
Stephanie Peacock
Spending on youth services in England saw a 73% reduction under the last Government. The national youth strategy, backed by over £500 million, is reversing this trend and I would be happy to discuss it further with him.
Session: Topical Questions
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When people talk about changes to jury trials being justice denied, I understand their concerns, but I do not think it is always appreciated that, for victims of horrendous crimes, backlogs mean justice is already being slowly and painfully denied. Could the Minister assure me that, while hard decisions are made on the speed and rigour of justice, the Ministry will keep in mind those brave survivors who have come forward and are being let down by the system as it is?
Context
As a survivor of rape, Josh Newbury highlights the issue of court backlogs delaying justice for victims of serious crimes. He references delays in court processes that discourage reporting or continuing cases.
The Minister for Courts and Legal Services (Sarah Sackman)
I thank my hon. Friend, who has spoken on a number of occasions about his horrific experience, and I think I speak for all in this House when I say that that takes a lot of courage. What he says about the impacts on people of delays in our courts and how knowledge of that is putting off people reporting or continuing with their cases—and we know witnesses and victims pull out of their own cases—means not only that that is a torment for them, but that justice is not even being served and people are walking away. That is why we must pull every lever, and why we are bringing forward these reforms.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituent, Julie, a single mum of two, had a successful career in marketing, but had to quit after battling with depression, stemming from undiagnosed attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Julie has been stuck in a cycle of struggling to get treatment and diagnosis on the NHS and having to go back to work before she is ready—a story that is sadly echoed among many of my constituents who struggle with fragmented mental health services and a lack of employment support due to cuts made by the previous Government. Will the Minister update the House on the work that she is doing with her counterparts in the Department of Health and Social Care, to ensure people struggling with mental ill health can recover and get back to work?
Context
A constituent's experience of battling with depression due to undiagnosed ADHD, leading to difficulties in getting treatment on the NHS and having to go back to work before she was ready.
The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions (Dame Diana Johnson)
I meet my colleagues in the Health and Social Care Department regularly, particularly because of the important work that the joint work and health directorate is doing to get people into work and to support people with health conditions in work, including those with chronic mental health conditions. Our employment advisers in talking therapies specifically target people with mental health conditions.
Session: Topical Questions
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Merry Christmas to you and your team, Mr Speaker. Alongside many colleagues on the Government Benches who are passionate about farming, I will continue to argue for a rethink on inheritance tax, but I back this Government and their mission to improve the profitability of our farms. We are speeding up planning, tackling unfair supply chain practices, unlocking finance and boosting exports. Does the Minister agree that the findings of the Batters review mean that we can finally turn a page on dwindling farm incomes and unleash benefits for farmers, the rural economy and our nation’s food security?
Context
The Batters review has been published, which discusses ways to improve the profitability of farms.
Angela Eagle (Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs)
That is absolutely true. Stepping forward with confidence into the future using new agritech techniques, diversifying farm income and seeing what we can do in partnership with the industry, as Baroness Batters’ report says this morning, is the way forward; talking down the industry and covering it in doom and gloom is not.
Session: Topical Questions
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I place on record my admiration for the right hon. Lord Cameron for speaking publicly about his diagnosis and successful treatment. The commitment to expanding home-based testing and remote monitoring is welcome, but can the Secretary of State tell the House what the Department will do to increase awareness and access to testing among the men most at risk, including those under 50?
Context
The first ever men’s health strategy for England was published, including commitments to improve care for men with prostate cancer. There is a need to increase awareness and access to testing among the most at-risk groups, particularly those under 50.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
Raising awareness is crucial as it encourages men to come forward and leads to more diagnosis. The Department will introduce support for individuals on prostate cancer active monitoring pathways to enable them to order and complete prostate-specific antigen blood tests at home from 2027. We are awaiting the recommendations of the National Screening Committee, which we will study carefully before acting on evidence-based discussion.
Session: Men’s Health Services
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Earlier this year, a constituent came to speak to me about shortages of the one hormone replacement therapy drug that was working for her after years of misdiagnoses and ineffective treatment. She told me that GPs have very low awareness of menopause and often recommend alternatives that cause adverse reactions, leaving her and many other women paying for private advice and treatment and taking time off work. Will the Minister update the House on what the Department is doing to address HRT shortages and to improve training for GPs so that millions of women get the support that they need?
Context
A constituent of Josh Newbury experienced shortages of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) drug and highlighted the low awareness among GPs about menopause, leading to ineffective treatments and private costs for women.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Dr Zubir Ahmed)
I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting this crucial issue. The majority of the more than 70 HRT products are in good supply, but we are aware of shortages affecting certain estradiol patches, and we are engaging with suppliers to expedite deliveries wherever we can. We have issued guidance to healthcare professionals under the serious shortage protocols methodology to enable community pharmacists to supply alternatives where appropriate. Furthermore, we are committed to funding research into women’s health, and we have invested approximately £5 million through the National Institute for Health and Care Research scheme into menopause research, including studies for new treatments to improve outcomes for women experiencing the menopause.
Session: NHS Menopause Treatment
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Could my hon. Friend tell the House what the Church Commissioners are doing to ensure that rural communities are not left without any access at all to places of worship?
Context
St John the Baptist church in Slitting Mill near Rugeley, an important community resource, held its final service in May. The closure was necessary to protect other nearby churches but left Slitting Mill without a place of worship.
Marsha De Cordova
The Church is investing £11 million with partner organisations dedicated to sharing the Christian faith, available to nearly half the parishes across the Church of England. I would be happy to meet or write to my hon. Friend to discuss further.
Session: Small Churches in Rural Constituencies
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A major barrier to increasing the number of sitting days in both magistrates and Crown courts is the lack of legal advisers. Many legal advisers are leaving because the pay is often better elsewhere. Will my right hon. Friend outline what steps the Ministry is taking to increase the number of legal advisers in our courts?
Context
The MP visited a local magistrates court and was told that legal advisers are leaving due to better pay elsewhere, leading to reduced sitting times.
The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (Mr David Lammy)
My hon. Friend will be pleased that we are recruiting more legal advisers and increasing capacity in the system. We support our magistrates to do their very important work as they are the bedrock of the system.
Session: Court Backlogs
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The world has watched in horror as humanitarian aid has been blocked from reaching Gaza, leading to a famine that is claiming the lives of those who survived the bombs. Meanwhile, in the west bank, the Israeli Government turn a blind eye to rampant settler violence and openly approve new settlements that could end the very possibility of a two-state solution. Can the Foreign Secretary assure the House that he is doing everything he can, not only to end the mass killing but to secure a lasting peace between two equal states in Israel and Palestine?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the blockage of humanitarian aid to Gaza, leading to famine conditions, and settler violence in the West Bank.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising this issue. The confirmation of famine is utterly horrifying. I am appalled by the shocking levels of settler violence, and I have been clear that Israel must clamp down on that violence. The Government have introduced three rounds of sanctions related to settler violence, including the July sanctions on Ben-Gvir and Smotrich for the incitement of violence against Palestinian communities.
Session: Gaza Ceasefire
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My constituents are rightly fed up with waste crime. My local council has had to deal with 1,500 instances of fly-tipping in the past three years, and it is all too often paid for by taxpayers, not criminals. Will the Minister tell us what the Government are doing to get tough on waste crime?
Context
Local councils have reported over 1,500 instances of fly-tipping in the past three years.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Mary Creagh)
We have announced plans to tighten up the regulation of those who transport and manage waste, moving them from a light-touch regime into a permitted system, which gives the Environment Agency a greater range of powers. It will also introduce the possibility of up to five years in prison for those who breach the new laws.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am concerned about the time taken for the adoption of children in foster care. Where adoption is the right option, it needs to happen without delay, and early permanence placements are crucial for offering stability. Would the Minister be willing to meet me and adoption charities to discuss how we can maximise the benefits of early permanence?
Context
The question stems from the need to provide stability and early permanence placements for children in foster care. The MP, as an adoptive parent and foster carer, advocates for the transformative impact of such practices.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Janet Daby)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important topic; he is a champion for children in Cannock Chase. I agree that we should continue to promote early permanence. Adoption England has published national standards to promote and shape early permanence practice across the country. I regularly meet the organisations my hon. Friend has mentioned, but I am more than happy to meet him too.
Session: Adoption Children in Foster Care
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I very much welcome the Minister’s response. Through the park tennis project, Cannock Chase has benefited from £215,000 of investment from the Government and the LTA Tennis Foundation to revive tennis courts in four of our parks, but the notorious British weather remains a barrier to participation, and many in my towns and villages lack access to covered tennis and padel facilities. With the park tennis project coming to an end, will the Minister consider funding the development of more covered courts to allow my constituents to enjoy tennis, whatever the weather?
Context
The MP references the park tennis project which provided £215,000 to revitalize four parks' tennis courts in Cannock Chase. However, adverse weather and lack of covered facilities remains an issue.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
This Government want to ensure that everyone from all walks of life can get active in any way that works for them, come rain or shine. I therefore welcome the Lawn Tennis Association’s strategic ambition to grow tennis and padel by making it accessible, welcoming, enjoyable and inspiring, but all future decisions on sports facilities will be considered in the spending review.
Session: Grassroots Sports Cannock Chase
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I recently visited Chaselea alternative provision academy in Cannock and met headteacher Mr Archer who told me that it receives £8,300 less per pupil than the average for PRUs due to an unfair funding formula. With year after year of real-terms funding cuts under the previous Government, Chaselea had to stop all off-site education and halt new admissions, which means longer stays for students. Will the Minister confirm that this Government will ensure that PRUs have the resources and support they need to do the vital work of helping young people return to mainstream education?
Context
Chaselea alternative provision academy in Cannock has received £8,300 less per pupil than the average PRU due to an unfair funding formula. The school had to stop off-site education and halt new admissions, affecting young people's ability to return to mainstream education.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
I agree that it is important that funding is available to support young people back into mainstream education. Staffordshire county council is being allocated, through the high needs funding block, over £143 million of its 2025-26 dedicated schools grant, and will need to consider how best to deploy that funding to achieve this aim.
Session: Pupil Referral Units
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My constituent Paul Dadge was iconically photographed rescuing a badly burned survivor of the 7/7 bombings. What thanks did Paul get? His phone was hacked by a newspaper looking for stories. Twelve years on from the Leveson inquiry, most national papers are still in the Independent Press Standards Organisation, a complaints handler that they control and that has never investigated or fined a single newspaper in its history. Will the Secretary of State consult on introducing a truly independent press regulator for all national papers, so that we can make sure there are no more victims of phone hacking and press intrusion?
Context
Paul Dadge, a constituent of Josh Newbury's, was photographed rescuing a survivor of the 7/7 bombings. His phone was later hacked by newspapers.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Lisa Nandy)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this very serious issue. He will know that since the Leveson inquiry concluded, there have been dramatic changes in the media landscape, meaning that we need to take a much wider view of how to protect a free, fair and self-regulated press and to protect the public. Nevertheless, we recognise that there are long-standing issues with the protection of members of the public such as my hon. Friend’s constituent, who the Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism knows well. I recently met families from the campaign group Hacked Off and listened to their stories. It was a harrowing meeting, and we are committed to working with them to resolve these issues.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituents have steadfastly supported the people of Ukraine since Russia’s illegal invasion. Can the Secretary of State confirm that collective support for Ukraine will be a major focus of his discussions with EU counterparts and that under this Government the UK will always lead the way in stepping up support for Ukraine?
Context
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has sparked support from constituents.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
Indeed, I can. My hon. Friend makes an important point. This period is critical for Ukraine and for European security. I hope that he sees a UK Government who are stepping up to provide stronger support for Ukraine, co-ordinating allies to do more, stepping up on European security, and above all stepping up on defence spending.
Session: EU Defence and Security Agreement
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In January, Bidfood, a food wholesaler and major employer in my constituency, announced overnight that it would derecognise the GMB and Unite union, removing the ability of thousands of workers across the country to collectively bargain through their trade unions. The unions fear that Bidfood workers could now be left at risk of fire and rehire before protections in this Government’s Employment Rights Bill come into force. Does the Minister agree that employers should not be trying to dodge protections under the Government’s plan to make work pay, and will he join me in supporting the GMB and Unite as they seek to protect their workers at Bidfood?
Context
Bidfood, a major employer in the constituency, announced derecognition of GMB and Unite unions, potentially leaving thousands of workers without collective bargaining rights before new protections come into force.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Justin Madders)
My hon. Friend will understand that I cannot comment on individual cases, but I am deeply troubled by what he has said. I can be clear that the Government are determined to reset industrial relations, so that employers and trade unions work together in partnership rather than in conflict, as we have heard. We encourage all employers to engage with unions in the spirit of co-operation and collaboration. Working in that way benefits employers and workers alike. As he knows, the Employment Rights Bill will end the unscrupulous practice of fire and rehire, which has no place in a modern economy and workplace, so if any company is thinking of doing that, it should think again.
Session: Trade Union Recognition
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Alongside our theatre and museum, which I mentioned earlier, Cannock also has brilliant small music venues, such as The Station, all of which give our budding actors, museum curators and musicians a foot on the ladder. However, we still long for the opportunities that are open to children in other parts of the country. Will the Minister set out what discussions he has had with colleagues on routes into creative sectors for our young people?
Context
The Minister is asked about discussions on routes into creative sectors for young people.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism (Chris Bryant)
Yesterday I met people from LIVE, and we are still very keen on trying to ensure that there is a levy on arena tickets to make provision for small music venues across the UK. That is where most young people will have their first experience of live music. We are determined to get there as soon as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for that response. In my constituency, formerly represented by the great Jennie Lee, the council-owned theatre and museum are due to close in just two months’ time. Passionate members of our community have come together to form the Cannock Chase Theatre Trust and the Chase Heritage CIC to save these precious venues. Will the Minister join me in thanking those groups for all their efforts, and will he set out how the Government are supporting such community groups to take on culture and heritage venues at risk?
Context
In Cannock Chase, the council-owned theatre and museum are due to close in two months. Community members have formed the Cannock Chase Theatre Trust and the Chase Heritage CIC to save these venues.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism (Chris Bryant)
I commend my hon. Friend and all those who have engaged as volunteers to try to take over the theatre and run it in an effective way. I look forward to the first production; after all, “The play’s the thing”— I saw “Hamlet” last week, and “Richard II” twice. The most important thing is that we try to ensure that young people have an opportunity to act and have a creative education in their school, and that there are local theatres and other venues where they are able to see really high-quality live entertainment, such as in the theatre he is talking about. I am very happy to ensure that officials meet his volunteers.
Session: Small Theatres and Performing Arts Venues
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I thank the Secretary of State for his response. My constituency of Cannock Chase has wide health inequalities, and particularly high levels of respiratory illness and bladder and brain cancer. In some parts of the country, NHS trusts are rapidly speeding up diagnostic waiting times by using highly accurate AI models, with the results checked by human clinicians. Will the Secretary of State confirm that the Government are supporting such safe tech innovations to help fulfil our mission to build an NHS fit for the future?
Context
The MP highlighted health inequalities and high levels of respiratory illness, bladder and brain cancer in his constituency. He mentioned that some trusts are using AI models to speed up diagnostic waiting times.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)
I can indeed commit to that. The Government see the embrace of proven technologies and innovation as fundamental to the future survival of the NHS. I was incredibly happy to see that last autumn, the Royal Wolverhampton NHS trust began enrolling patients in a global-first trial of completely personalised cancer vaccines, as part of a £1 billion investment negotiated by my Department. That shows the way forward and how co-operation between Departments will deliver for patients and public service users across the country.
Session: NHS Diagnostic Processes Technological Innovation
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Merry Christmas, Mr Speaker. This time of year brings festive cheer, but it also brings the Boxing day hunts. Alongside many of my constituents, I am keen to see an end to the smoke- screen that is trail hunting. Following the last Labour Government's historic foxhunting ban, will the Minister confirm this Labour Government's commitment to banning trail hunting once and for all?
Context
Following the last Labour Government's historic foxhunting ban, there is a call for an end to trail hunting.
Mary Creagh
We have indeed committed to a ban on trail hunting, which will provide significant protections to wild animals, including foxes and hares. Work to determine the best approach for doing so is ongoing, and further announcements will be made in due course.
Session: Hunting Trophy Import Ban
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Last week, my local council announced the proposed closure of the much-loved prince of wales theatre in cannock. Despite the council's financial pressures, local people do not want that theatre to become collateral damage. Will the Minister meet me to see what could be done to explore community ownership and give our theatre the bright future that thousands of my constituents want to see?
Context
The local council has proposed the closure of the Prince of Wales theatre in Cannock.
Alex Norris
As my hon. Friend knows, I am very keen on community ownership, and I am sad to hear about the situation in his community. I would definitely steer him towards the “asset of community value” process in the immediate term, and of course, I would be very happy to meet him and campaigners on this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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From cadets to regulars and reservists, we must urgently tackle the recruitment and retention crisis. Will the Minister welcome the fact that more than 700 applications have been reconsidered following the removal of outdated medical policies?
Context
The MP highlighted a recruitment and retention crisis caused by the previous government's policies, mentioning over 700 applications being reconsidered after removing unnecessary red tape.
Luke Pollard
I am delighted to join my hon. Friend in welcoming the announcement that over 700 applications have been reconsidered following the removal of outdated medical policies, such as those blocking some sufferers of hay fever and acne.
Session: Armed Forces Recruitment and Retention
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Can the Secretary of State confirm that he is committed to unfettered access for goods moving from Northern Ireland to Great Britain?
Context
Businesses in the questioner's constituency face increased red tape and costs when importing or exporting with Northern Ireland.
Hilary Benn
I certainly can confirm that, and it is set out in the United Kingdom Internal Market Act 2020.
Session: Windsor Framework Labelling Requirements
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What steps are being taken with Cabinet colleagues to remove barriers to trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain?
Context
The question arises from concerns about trade barriers affecting commerce within the UK.
Hilary Benn
The Government are committed to implementing the Windsor framework in good faith, and to protecting Northern Ireland's place in the UK internal market. We continue to take forward policies set out in “Safeguarding the Union”, including most recently the establishment of the independent monitoring panel and the publication of guidance under section 46 of the United Kingdom Internal Market Act 2020.
Session: Barriers to Trade
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My constituent Connor is in a predicament: he is out of pocket for taxi fares to weekly or even twice weekly sessions with a Jobcentre Plus private contractor. The sessions last barely 15 minutes and are not helping him reach his goal of becoming an engineering apprentice. Will the Minister review the value of Jobcentre Plus private contracts to both jobseekers and taxpayers?
Context
The question stems from constituent issues with travel costs and the effectiveness of Jobcentre Plus sessions.
Stephen Timms
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Performance is reviewed regularly and there are customer satisfaction surveys, but unlike the previous Government, this Government want to publish performance data so that everybody can see what is going on.
Session: Jobcentre Claimants Travel Costs
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What guidance her Department has issued to private contractors working in partnership with Jobcentre Plus on reimbursing claimants' travel costs. Provider guidance, which is published on gov.uk, makes clear that contractors on all our employment programmes must reimburse customers' reasonable travel costs. My constituent Connor is out of pocket for taxi fares to weekly or even twice weekly sessions with a Jobcentre Plus private contractor. The sessions last barely 15 minutes and are not helping him reach his goal of becoming an engineering apprentice. Will the Minister review the value of Jobcentre Plus private contracts to both jobseekers and taxpayers?
Context
The question arises from constituent concerns about travel cost reimbursements for Jobcentre Plus sessions.
Stephen Timms
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Performance is reviewed regularly and there are customer satisfaction surveys, but unlike the previous Government, this Government want to publish performance data so that everybody can see what is going on.
Session: Jobcentre Claimants Travel Costs
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What progress has been made on transferring the Government's share of the MPS investment reserve to scheme members?
Context
The issue concerns the members of the mineworkers' pension scheme who have seen billions go to successive Governments. With 19 average deaths per day, resolution is urgently needed.
Darren Jones
I championed this issue in the last Parliament as Chair of the Business and Trade Committee. I am pleased to confirm that I am working with colleagues across Government to make progress, and I will update the House further in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Craniocervical Instability
26 March 2026
Responding: Sharon Hodgson
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about patients like Connor Edwards who suffer from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) and craniocervical instability (CCI). The conditions are often undiagnosed, leaving patients feeling unseen and unsupported by the NHS. Patients face challenges such as misdiagnosis, lack of access to appropriate diagnostics, and absence of a clear pathway for treatment and aftercare.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the government to recognise that suspected CCI in EDS requires a defined process for assessment within the health service. This includes taking practical steps to reduce avoidable harm, ensuring diagnostic assessment, providing specialist opinions where needed, and establishing funding mechanisms for clinical necessity.']
Future of the Gas Grid
18 June 2025
Responding: Michael Shanks
Main Concerns
["Gas accounts for 40% of UK's total energy consumption and is vital for flexibility in renewable generation. Eighty-three per cent of homes rely on mains gas, with 95% of households in Cannock Chase on the grid. Six thousand four hundred sixty households in his constituency live in fuel poverty. Heat pumps are costly and only partially covered by government schemes, leading to decarbonisation inequality."]
Specific Asks
['Calls for a substantial shift in cost barriers and clear focus on inequality in government policy. Suggests hybrid heat pump systems as an option to reduce gas demand while minimising impact on electricity grid.']
Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Church Commissioners
03 September 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Asked about the financial impact of parish shares on churches and the support available from the Church of England once reserves are exhausted. Emphasised the importance of churches in providing commu...
Bluetongue Virus in Livestock
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Civil Service Pensions
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Environmental Protection
06 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mary Creagh, a Labour MP for Wakefield, opened the debate by highlighting the need to address waste crime through stricter checks and requirements on those who transport and deal in waste. She emphasi...
Farming Road Map and Profitability Review
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Health and Social Care Bill
01 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, James Murray, moved the Second Reading of the Health and Social Care Bill. He emphasised the personal significance of the NHS in his life due to a ra...
Middle East: Economic Response
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Energy Security
19 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Criticises the Government's energy policy, particularly the ban on new oil and gas licences. Emphasises the negative impact of these policies on Aberdeen, the North East of Scotland, and UK economic s...
Attendance
81.6%
80 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
31
31.6% of votes
No Votes
49
50.0% of votes
Abstentions
18
18.4% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
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
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
3
PMQs Asked
34
Ministerial Questions Asked
65
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-18% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+154% above average
This MP:
34
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1237% above average
This MP:
65
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+18% above average
This MP:
81.6
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Josh Newbury's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.