Judith Cummins
MP for Bradford South
Lab
7 May 2015 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
To strengthen current spiking legislation, forensic evidence is essential. The NHS does not have a uniform policy for the screening of suspected victims of spiking at A&E. We can pass all the laws we want in this place, but to achieve justice that forensic evidence is vital. Will the Prime Minister commit to ensuring that hospital emergency departments have a statutory obligation to take forensic samples from these victims?
Context
The NHS lacks uniform policy for the screening of suspected spiking victims at A&E, which undermines efforts to provide justice.
Rishi Sunak
I agree with the hon. Lady that spiking is an appalling, violating crime which seriously undermines public safety, particularly the safety of women and girls, and we want to ensure that the existing laws recognise the threat that spiking poses. That is why at the end of last year we announced a raft of new measures to confront spiking and support victims, including changing the law to make it clear without any doubt that spiking is illegal, as well as other measures such as an online reporting tool, investing in research and rapid testing kits, and training for bar staff. I will ensure that we look into the issue she raises and write back to her.
Assessment
Did not commit to statutory obligation for forensic samples at A&E
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister clarify when and if the spiking report will be published? Does he agree that creating a specific criminal offence for spiking is necessary?
Context
Government failed to publish a spiking report by April, citing reconsideration of rationale for not introducing a specific spiking offence.
Rishi Sunak
This issue has been reviewed by legal police colleagues. My understanding is that existing laws cover spiking offences. I will ensure the hon. Lady gets a letter explaining this position.
Assessment
Creating a specific criminal offence for spiking
Existing Laws Cover Spiking
Session: PMQs
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Every child in the UK is entitled to free NHS dental treatment, but with 80% of practices not accepting children as new patients, is the Prime Minister proud of his record on our children's dental health?
Context
80% of practices do not accept children as new patients despite free NHS dental treatment for every child.
Rishi Sunak
We are investing £3 billion in NHS dentistry. Because of the reforms to the contract, there will be about 10% more activity this year above contracted levels. There are 500 more dentists in the NHS today and, I think, almost a 45% increase in the amount of dental care being provided to children.
Assessment
Specific pride or lack thereof regarding his record on children's dental health
Session: PMQs
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Seven years ago, a Conservative Prime Minister told me to stop griping about rail investment plans. A few weeks ago, the new Secretary of State said there wasn't really much point in going ahead with Northern Powerhouse Rail. Will the Deputy Prime Minister now put on the record whether he supports Transport for the North's preferred option for NPR, with a stop in Bradford?
Context
Conservative Prime Ministers have repeatedly promised Northern Powerhouse Rail but failed to deliver. The current Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy questioned the point in going ahead with NPR.
Dominic Raab
I can tell the hon. Lady that our £96 billion integrated rail plan will make Northern Powerhouse Rail a reality. We are committed to the project; the precise details will be set out in due course.
Assessment
Specific commitment to supporting Transport for the North's preferred option with a stop in Bradford was not provided
We Are Committed To
Session: PMQs
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The Communities Secretary has admitted unlawfully overruling his own planning inspector to allow the Westferry development to go ahead, potentially saving the developer, Richard Desmond, who is a Conservative party donor, £40 million in tax. The Secretary of State did so just weeks after sitting next to the developer at a Tory fundraising dinner. Given that this was the same scheme that the Prime Minister tried to push through when he was Mayor of London and which reappeared after he entered Downing Street, will he now tell the House what conversations he has had with the Secretary of State about the scheme? Will he publish all relevant correspondence between No. 10 and the Department?
Context
The question highlights concerns over the Communities Secretary's decision to overrule a planning inspector's recommendation, potentially benefiting a Conservative party donor.
The Prime Minister
I am happy to tell the hon. Lady that I have had no conversations on that matter whatever, nor any exchanges of any kind.
Assessment
Disclosure of conversations and correspondence regarding controversial planning decisions.
Denial
Session: PMQs
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What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that the Solicitors Regulation Authority has the necessary powers to provide protection and compensation for my constituents?
Context
Constituents were encouraged to pursue no win, no fee claims against defective cavity wall insulation providers by solicitors firm SSB Law. The firm went into administration leaving my constituents with legal costs.
Alex Chalk
I thank the hon. Lady for raising this important point on behalf of her constituents, and I will write to her.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps he is taking, along with the Foreign Secretary, to ensure that the pier is constructed as quickly as possible?
Context
The UK Government has committed to building a temporary pier in Gaza for aid delivery.
Grant Shapps
The hon. Lady will be pleased to hear that I have sent teams both to Tampa to work with US Central Command and to the region to help with planning and constructing that pier. In addition, right at the beginning of the conflict, I ensured that we did hydrographic research, to aid in exactly this kind of situation.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Aid
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What steps he is taking with the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs to increase the number of aid shipments to the middle east. With half of Gaza already starving and the rest teetering on the edge of famine, access to humanitarian aid is crucial.
Context
With Gaza facing a severe humanitarian crisis, the UK is under pressure to increase aid shipments.
Grant Shapps
There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. The UK, including the Ministry of Defence, is working collectively with allies, partners and international organisations to deliver desperately needed aid to the Gazan population. I have sent teams both to Tampa to work with US Central Command and to the region to help with planning and constructing that pier.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Aid
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In 2010, total wealth per head in the north was 16% lower than in the rest of England. Last week, a report estimated the disparity growing to 21%. Can the Secretary of State confirm that this Government's policies have achieved levelling up?
Context
The north of England saw a wealth gap compared to the rest of England, which has widened over time. A report by IPPR estimated that this gap will grow to 21% by 2030.
Michael Gove
I was delighted to be in West Yorkshire on Friday outlining the additional investment that we are making in that region. The agreement that we have reached with the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, will see significant additional funds going in.
Session: Topical Questions
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The chair of Girlguiding UK has recently informed me that with Government funding, Girlguiding can at least be sustained in three overseas military bases. Will the Minister update me on his discussions to ensure that girls living on UK overseas military bases can continue to access Girlguiding?
Context
MP Judith Cummins is concerned about Girlguiding's sustainability in three overseas military bases.
Stuart Andrew
I know the hon. Lady has done a lot of work in this area, and we had a good Westminster Hall debate on this. Girlguiding is an independent organisation, and must make its own organisational and directional decisions. The Department is working closely with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the Ministry of Defence, Girlguiding, and representatives from overseas territories to see whether we can come up with a solution.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why is the Government not providing legislation as per the motion tabled by the Opposition, necessitating full seizure of Russian state assets within 90 days?
Context
UN High Commissioner for Refugees comments on Ukrainian suffering and the need for Government legislation.
Leo Docherty
Not out of step; leading pack with financial commitment and permanent relationship with Ukraine, demonstrated by signing UK-Ukraine agreement on security co-operation.
Session: Ukraine
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Considering ONS data showing a high rate of out-of-work benefit claims in Bradford South, does the Secretary of State believe the Government's back to work plan is effective for constituents there?
Context
Office for National Statistics figures showed that 6.6% of people of working age in Bradford are claiming out-of-work benefits, the highest rate in the Leeds city region.
Mel Stride
The back to work plan has billions of pounds-worth of investment behind it, including the £3.5 billion announced by the Chancellor in the spring Budget. Such things as extending restart, bringing forward mandatory placements after 18 months to ensure that people get into work and doubling universal support are important measures that will see increased numbers in work.
Session: Employment Rate OBR Forecast
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What assessment has been made of the potential implications for government policies regarding the OBR's employment rate forecast?
Context
The question stems from the Office for Budget Responsibility's economic and fiscal outlook published in November 2023, which included employment forecasts.
Mel Stride
The Government are committed to increasing employment. Payroll employment is at a near record high of 30.2 million, which is up 1.2 million on the pre-pandemic level. The Office for Budget Responsibility forecasts that our back to work plan will see 30,000 more people in work over the forecast period.
Session: Employment Rate OBR Forecast
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In my constituency, the antisocial and illegal use of fireworks continues to affect law-abiding citizens and our pets. Will the Secretary of State commit to reducing the legal limit for commercial fireworks from 120 dB to 90 dB or less?
Context
The MP has raised concerns about the antisocial use of loud commercial fireworks in her constituency.
James Cleverly
I have not yet had the opportunity to read into that issue—it was not the angle I was expecting in this question—but the proposal seems a thoughtful one. I will give it due consideration, but I cannot make a commitment at this point.
Session: Topical Questions
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Having 100% FLS coverage in England would prevent an estimated 74,000 fractures including 31,000 hip fractures over five years. Will the Minister finally commit to 100% FLS coverage across England?
Context
100% fracture liaison services coverage would prevent an estimated 74,000 fractures including 31,000 hip fractures over five years.
Steve Barclay
In the interests of brevity, I will actively look at that issue and write to the hon. Lady about it.
Session: Topical Questions
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The loss of Wilko is devastating for thousands of workers who will lose their livelihoods. Will the Secretary of State confirm that she will seek answers from Wilko management about why clear warnings were ignored and the business was driven into the ground? She will meet me and the GMB trade union to assure us that those basic failures will not be repeated?
Context
Wilko, a retailer in Bradford South, recently went into administration.
Kevin Hollinrake
The hon. Member raises an important point. There is certainly, as part of the administration process, an obligation on the administrators to look at the circumstances that led to the demise of that company and report to the Insolvency Service.
Session: Topical Questions
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We have seen a summer of job cuts in my Bradford South constituency, with both Morrisons and Solenis announcing major redundancies. Does the Minister agree that this shows that the Government's plan to grow the economy is failing?
Context
There has been a wave of job cuts in Bradford South recently with major redundancies announced by Morrisons and Solenis.
Guy Opperman
I should make the point that payroll employment is at a record high. There are 4 million more people in work than in 2010, and the unemployment rate is down to 4.2% across the UK—that is a near record low. Our jobcentres are clearly doing a fantastic job, and I fully support all the work that is going on in Bradford to try to address these issues.
Session: Unemployment
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What assessment his Department has made of trends in the level of unemployment over the last 12 months?
Context
The question is prompted by concerns about the level of unemployment over the last year.
Guy Opperman
The independent Office for National Statistics estimates that, notwithstanding a recent uptick, the unemployment rate is now almost half the rate we inherited in 2010 and is back to pre-pandemic levels.
Session: Unemployment
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Can the Minister explain why not even one of the 63 key performance indicators set by NHS England for integrated care boards sets a target for fracture prevention?
Context
Half of all women over 50 will experience bone fractures due to osteoporosis, leading to many serious hip fractures. The MP is concerned about the lack of key performance indicators for integrated care boards focusing on fracture prevention.
Maria Caulfield
I thank the hon. Lady for her work in this space. She is campaigning hard on this issue. I reassure her that osteoporosis is in the women's health strategy and is a priority area for us. We are already working to make sure that women's vitamin D status is known, and to make sure that we fill gaps. NHS England is expanding fracture services for high-risk women with osteoporosis, and it is working to prevent falls.
Session: Healthcare for Women
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Yesterday, we learned that sugar prices have risen by a massive 47% in the past year, and industry experts predict that they will rise again this autumn, because of the high energy costs of extracting and refining sugar. What steps is the Minister taking to support the food and drink sector throughout this period of extreme inflationary pressure, so that these costs are not, yet again, passed on to consumers?
Context
Sugar prices have risen by a massive 47% in the past year, with predictions of further increases.
Mark Spencer (Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries)
The hon. Lady should be aware that I meet British Sugar regularly. We are keen to help and support it with new technology, with investment in genetic technologies to improve sugar beet yields. We will continue to have those conversations. We are very much aware of the pressures on global sugar prices, which is why we need a thriving and productive sugar market here in the UK.
Session: Topical Questions
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Marshalls Bakery, a small business in my constituency, has just closed its doors after 43 years of trading. The owners told me that they were unable to withstand the combined pressures of covid, rising wheat and container charges and high energy costs. They feel let down and are angry at the lack of Government support for businesses such as theirs. Can the Minister tell me what further steps he is taking to ensure that other small businesses can survive in this challenging climate to provide the certainty from Government that they so desperately need?
Context
A local business, Marshalls Bakery, has closed after facing multiple pressures including high energy costs and lack of government support.
Kevin Hollinrake
I am sorry to hear about the demise of that business in the hon. Lady's constituency. Clearly, it has been a very tough time for businesses in recent years, with the covid crisis followed by the cost of living crisis. I am very happy to meet her to discuss what support we provide, which is to the tune of hundreds of billions of pounds.
Session: Topical Questions
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Today the UK is pledging a new package of military support to Ukraine. What assessment has the Minister made of the pace of delivery of those vital supplies to Ukraine?
Context
The questioner notes the UK's pledge of military support to Ukraine and asks for an assessment of the pace of delivery.
Ben Wallace
Right from the start, the United Kingdom has been at the forefront of ensuring that the supplies get into the country as soon as possible, basing people not only in the international donor co-ordination cell in Germany—there are over 70 military personnel there—but in neighbouring countries, to ensure the logistics of getting supplies to reach places in time. We are still managing to commit to that pace.
Session: Topical Questions
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I chair the all-party parliamentary group on osteoporosis and bone health. Our recent report, supported by the Royal Osteoporosis Society, showed that an investment of just £27 million pounds a year in fracture liaison services would deliver more than £600 million pounds of savings for the NHS over five years. Will the Minister meet me and the ROS to discuss our report, and will he commit himself to ending the postcode lottery by providing 100% coverage for FLS for over-50s in England?
Context
Investing in fracture liaison services could deliver significant savings for the NHS and improve patient outcomes.
Steve Barclay
I am happy for a member of the ministerial team to meet the hon. Lady, who has made a compelling case about the return on investment. We will obviously need to scrutinise it in more detail, and I am sure that my colleagues will look forward to doing so.
Session: Topical Questions
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In just one year, between 2021 and 2022, nearly 5,000 reports of spiking-related incidents were recorded by the National Police Chiefs' Council. The Ministry of Justice recently confirmed that in the four years between 2017 and 2021, there were just 40 convictions for spiking-related offences. Does the Secretary of State agree with the assessment of the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, the hon. Member for Derbyshire Dales (Miss Dines), that there are no gaps in the law relating to spiking, and if so, how can this low conviction rate be explained?
Context
Between 2021 and 2022, nearly 5,000 reports of spiking incidents were recorded by the National Police Chiefs' Council. Only 40 convictions for spiking occurred between 2017 and 2021.
Dominic Raab
The challenge is less gaps in the law and more evidential difficulties in bringing prosecutions, but I share the hon. Lady's aim to do everything we can with new technology to ramp up the number of prosecutions.
Session: Topical Questions
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According to the Government's own reports, the Prime Minister's Richmondshire local authority is the 67th least deprived local authority in the country, while Bradford is the 21st most deprived. Was levelling up at the heart of the Government's decision to approve roughly £20 million of funding for Richmondshire and no funding for my constituency of Bradford South?
Michael Gove
That money went towards ensuring that service families get the accommodation and support they deserve. If Labour wants to be taken seriously as a patriotic party, it should stop talking down our armed forces and ensure that they receive the money they deserve.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree with Japan's view on prioritising effective responses to economic coercion at this year's G7 summit?
Context
A UK Treasury official stated that the G7 response lacks results, while Japan seeks a strong stance against economic coercion.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
I spoke with Foreign Ministers in Japan. Their focus will ensure discussions include economic security and its implications.
Session: Topical Questions
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During my visit to Ukraine, officials requested more military support. Given US discussions on creating a fighter jet coalition and Germany's reluctance, what assessment have the Government made about building such a coalition?
Context
Ukrainian officials need increased military support, particularly in forming a fighter jet coalition with NATO allies.
Ben Wallace
We are tracking progress based on battlefield needs. Our response is not ad hoc but considered carefully.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will you give a commitment to include areas like holding the Crown Prosecution Service accountable when securing compensation for victims of crime in the Victims Bill?
Context
Concerns about ensuring that victims are not forgotten and that compensation is secured.
Dominic Raab
The Victims Bill will place the victims code into law, increase oversight at police and crime commissioner level, and include a victim surcharge for restorative justice and extra compensation.
Session: Criminal Justice System Support for Victims
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What steps are being taken to support victims in the criminal justice system, given that it has been seven years since the Victims Bill was first promised?
Context
The question arises from concerns about victim support and the progress of the Victims Bill.
Dominic Raab
The draft Victims Bill was published in May after pre-legislative scrutiny. We are ready to bring it forward when parliamentary time allows, along with a victim surcharge. Funding for victims and witness support is being quadrupled compared to the last Labour Government.
Session: Criminal Justice System Support for Victims
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With the men's competition kicking off last Saturday and the women's and wheelchair teams due to get going next week, the rugby league world cup is getting into its stride. To secure the legacy of this great event and Bradford's being city of culture 2025, I am backing an ambitious levelling-up bid to transform Odsal stadium, the iconic home of the Bradford Bulls, which is in my constituency. With the recent economic uncertainty, I am concerned that the bid could fall by the wayside. Will the Minister show Bradford that the Government are serious about levelling up and visit Odsal stadium with me?
Context
There is a levelling-up bid to transform Odsal stadium, the iconic home of the Bradford Bulls, in light of economic uncertainty.
Stuart Andrew
It seems, following the earlier question from the hon. Member for Bradford East (Imran Hussain), that I am going to have a day trip to Bradford, which I am more than happy to do, considering that it is right next door to my constituency.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Minister confirm that round 2 of the levelling-up fund will still be going ahead in full and meet me and stakeholders to discuss it?
Context
There is a plan for the transformation of Odsal stadium to become a world-class sports, music and culture arena with potential socioeconomic benefits.
Felicity Buchan
I can confirm that we will be going ahead with the second round of the levelling-up fund. There should be decisions by the end of the year, and if that meeting is possible, we will do it.
Session: Levelling-up Agenda
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What fiscal steps his Department is taking to support levelling up?
Context
The MP is concerned about the fiscal steps being taken to support levelling up in her constituency.
Felicity Buchan
The White Paper “Levelling Up the United Kingdom” sets out a clear plan to level up every corner of the UK by 2030. We are driving growth and unlocking housing with new investment zones, investing billions in regional infrastructure, including £1.7 billion allocated under the levelling-up fund, of which £500 million went to the north.
Session: Levelling-up Agenda
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Last week, hospital clinicians raised with me their serious concerns that they are seeing incoming case notes of vulnerable and frail patients marked with 'telephone consultation during covid-19 pandemic', but those consultations were just in the last few weeks. This is clearly unacceptable and is leaving many of my constituents with the very real possibility of either a missed diagnosis or a misdiagnosis. What action is the Secretary of State taking to guarantee face-to-face appointments that are easily available for the elderly and vulnerable patients who need them?
Context
Clinicians raised concerns about face-to-face consultations being replaced with telephone ones, risking missed or misdiagnoses.
Steve Barclay
The number of face-to-face appointments is increasing and in May 2022, excluding covid-19 vaccines, 64% of appointments were face-to-face, up from 55%. But the hon. Lady is right to say that patients should have the choice, and that is why the NHS access improvement programme has been supporting practices experiencing greater access challenges. Indeed, one of the first visits I did in my new role was to a GP practice to look at the practical measures it was putting in place to facilitate greater access for its patients.
Session: Access to GPs
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I am extremely concerned about the safeguarding of our young people at outdoor music festivals, which attract more than 7.1 million people, many of whom are under 18. There is currently more licensing provision for the recycling of a plastic cup than for our young people, who have suffered serious sexual assault, including rape, by spiking. Will the Minister work with me and others to create a gold standard of licensing for these events in order to protect our young people?
Context
There is a concern about the lack of licensing provisions to protect young people from serious sexual assaults and spiking at outdoor music festivals.
Rachel Maclean
I am very happy to work with the hon. Lady—we have already spoken about the issue, and I am grateful for her interest in it. As the country gets back to festivals this summer, we all want young women and girls—and all young people—to enjoy themselves safely, so I will work with the hon. Lady across Government to take forward the asks that she has presented to us.
Session: Topical Questions
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Many girls and women are afraid of enjoying a night out or going to a music festival for fear of being spiked, raped and assaulted. What work is the Minister doing with venues such as bars, nightclubs and music festivals to prevent that from happening and to ensure that appropriate safeguarding measures are in place, and what is the assessment of the scale of the problem at those venues?
Context
Concerns have been raised about the safety of women in nightclubs, bars, music festivals, and other night-time venues due to the fear of being spiked or assaulted.
Rachel Maclean
The hon. Lady raises a really good point. Those in the night-time economy play a key role and are taking their responsibilities seriously. The Government work very closely with them, and we are providing funding and helping them provide training to their staff so that women can feel safe at night. It is vital that the funding we are providing is being used by local authorities to provide, for example, testing kits and taxi marshals to get women home safely at night. Police are also ramping up their forensic capabilities. There is a lot of work going on.
Session: Spiking in Nightclubs
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What progress the Government have made on their response to young women being spiked by injection in nightclubs?
Context
There have been concerns and reports of young women being spiked through injections at nightclubs, which has raised serious safety issues.
Rachel Maclean
The abhorrent crimes of spiking also speak to broader issues of violence against women and girls, which is taken extremely seriously by this Government. The Home Secretary has already asked the National Police Chiefs' Council to urgently review the extent and scale of the issue, and she is receiving regular updates from the police. The hon. Lady will know that we are delivering a pilot £5 million safety of women at night fund, which focuses on preventing violence against women and girls in the night-time economy, keeping them safe in public spaces at night.
Session: Spiking in Nightclubs
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I am sure the whole House agrees that a good society is one that helps those in great need. I have a constituent in great need. She was in receipt of income support and the severe disability premium, but her child is now aged five so she has been told to claim universal credit, which will cause her severe disability payment to end. What assurances can the Minister give my constituent that we are still in a good society and that, by being forced into this change in her benefits, she will be no worse off?
Context
The MP highlights a constituent's situation where moving from income support to universal credit results in the loss of severe disability payment, raising concerns about worsening conditions.
Chloe Smith
It would be difficult for me to comment on the hon. Member's constituent's precise circumstances, although I am happy to look at the case if she wants to write to me with details. As a general point, to support claimants previously entitled to the severe disability premium who moved to universal credit after a change of circumstances, there are transitional payments protections in place.
Session: Legacy Benefits People with Severe Disabilities
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What recent assessment has been made of the adequacy of legacy benefits for people with severe disabilities?
Context
The MP raises concerns about legacy benefits adequacy for individuals with severe disabilities.
Chloe Smith
People on legacy benefits with severe disabilities are most likely to get employment and support allowance. Income-related ESA claimants may be entitled to the enhanced disability premium or the severe disability premium. Claimants may also be eligible for personal independence payments to help with the extra costs of living faced by disabled people.
Session: Legacy Benefits People with Severe Disabilities
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With the absence of a rail line from Manchester to Rawtenstall in the integrated rail plan, will my right hon. Friend look favourably on our levelling-up bid that includes transport and other schemes for Rossendale and east Lancashire?
Context
The question is about the lack of inclusion in the integrated rail plan of a proposed railway line between Manchester and Rawtenstall, which was expected to support regeneration efforts.
Michael Gove
East Lancashire, including Rawtenstall, is at the heart of a successful approach to levelling up. Communities in East Lancashire will receive investment not just in transport but also in skills, schools, and ensuring streets are safe.
Session: Integrated Rail Plan
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What assessment has he made of the implications for his policies on levelling up of the integrated rail plan? The integrated rail plan really only delivers an upgrade to existing lines and cancels Northern Powerhouse Rail. With three weeks left in 2021, when will the promised levelling-up White Paper be published?
Context
The question arises from the publication of a £96 billion integrated rail plan, which has been criticised for not delivering on previous commitments.
Michael Gove
The integrated rail plan provides significant benefits for communities across the north of England. Travel time between Leeds and Bradford is reduced to 12 minutes from over 20 minutes in some cases. Further work on mass transit systems like West Yorkshire's approach will be considered. The broader set of levelling-up plans will be shared with the House at the earliest opportunity.
Session: Integrated Rail Plan
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One of the largest city-to-city journeys to work in the country is between Bradford and Leeds, and those journeys are mostly by car. At scale, Northern Powerhouse Rail would support a 400% increase in rail travel and take 64,000 car trips a day off the roads. With COP under way, do this Government have a strategy to ensure that our covid recovery is by rail, rather than by road, and will that include—because it should—Northern Powerhouse Rail in full, with a city centre stop in Bradford?
Context
Northern Powerhouse Rail could support a significant increase in rail travel between Bradford and Leeds, reducing car trips. The questioner asks if the Government have a strategy to ensure a recovery by rail rather than road, including Northern Powerhouse Rail.
Andrew Stephenson
The hon. Lady tempts me to speculate on the contents of the integrated rail plan. As I said in response to the hon. Member for Bradford East (Imran Hussain), she will have to wait and see. However, the Government recognise the importance of Bradford, and particularly the connectivity of Bradford to Leeds—two incredibly important northern cities.
Session: Topical Questions
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Removing BTEC funding means only those following an academic pathway can return to study or skilled employment. How is this compatible with the lifetime skills guarantee offering access to over 400 courses addressing skill shortages?
Context
Returning learners over the age of 19 will lose options to progress to level 3 qualifications and higher education or employment with BTEC funding removal, conflicting with lifetime skills guarantee offer.
Gillian Keegan
The level 3 offer includes T-levels, and we are considering broader access. The lifetime skills guarantee is a level 3 offer for adults introduced in April this year. We aim to ensure study offers value to individuals and workplaces by upgrading qualifications.
Session: BTEC Qualifications
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What recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of removing funding for BTEC qualifications on students wanting to pursue vocational pathways? The concern is over skills shortages and the need for high-quality technical education in a fast-moving economy, as stated by the government's own plans for reforming level 3 qualifications published on July 14th.
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential impact of removing funding for BTECs on students wishing to undertake vocational qualifications.
Gillian Keegan
Employers face skills shortages that we must address. Our plans to reform level 3 qualifications were published on July 14th, focusing on closing the gap between education and employer needs. High-quality BTECs meeting new quality criteria will continue to be funded alongside or as alternatives to T-levels and A-levels where there is a clear need for skills and knowledge that other qualifications cannot provide.
Session: BTEC Qualifications
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Bradford Council has the highest demand for self-isolation payments in the country, reflecting the fact that most people in our city are unable to work from home. The standard scheme for those on certain benefits is fully funded but the discretionary scheme is not. In fact, the funding for Bradford falls far short of demand. Will he urgently look into this so councils with high demand can support all workers who need to self-isolate?
Context
Concerns about Bradford Council's high demand for self-isolation payments and insufficient discretionary scheme funding.
Steve Barclay
The Chancellor announced a £20 million per month increase for the discretionary scheme, widening eligibility scope under that scheme to cover additional factors like parents unable to work due to child self-isolation.
Session: Self-isolation Financial Barriers
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Ninety primary school headteachers from across Bradford have written to express disappointment about support for teachers and pupils. Will the Minister increase funding for the national tutoring programme as a matter of urgency?
Context
School-age children in Bradford have some of the lowest social mobility rates. The Government has a £1 billion catch-up fund, but only enough places on the national tutoring programme for one in every five disadvantaged pupils.
Nick Gibb
Ensuring that no child suffers a loss to their education or damage to their long-term prospects is a key priority. £1 billion of catch-up funding has been secured from the Treasury, including £350 million for the national tutoring programme and £650 million distributed to schools.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Spiking
14 December 2023
Responding: Thomas Tugendhat
Main Concerns
["The issue of spiking is not new or rare in the UK. A YouGov poll found that 11% of women and 6% of men had been spiked, but with only 3% reporting incidents to police, the true figure is likely much higher. Drug-spiking incidents reported to police have increased fivefold in five years, yet the proportion leading to criminal charges has dropped from 4% in 2018 to just 0.23% last year. The National Police Chiefs' Council stated that a specific offence for spiking would help understand the scale of the problem and support victims better."]
Specific Asks
['The Government must act urgently, publish their report on spiking as required by law, clarify when they will do so, and recognise spiking as a criminal offence in its own right.']
Rugby League World Cup 2022
25 October 2022
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member is concerned about the challenges faced during the preparation for the Rugby League World Cup, which began in November 2015 and spanned a global pandemic and multiple crises. She highlighted the importance of rugby league as a unifying force for communities, especially in northern towns and cities. The world cup promises to make a huge impact on culture and sport in the UK, with simultaneous men's, women's, and wheelchair tournaments. The event includes significant investment in facilities, volunteering, mental fitness, education, and international development programmes."]
Specific Asks
["The hon. Member asks for continued support of the Rugby League World Cup legacy, including investments in facilities and education to ensure a strong future for rugby league. She also encourages MPs to attend matches and experience the sport's cultural impact firsthand."]
Energy-intensive Industries
06 July 2022
Responding: Lee Rowley
Main Concerns
["Over the past few months, there has been increasing concern and panic about the energy crisis and huge rises in gas and electricity bills. Energy-intensive businesses are facing rising energy prices that have caused some to go from £7 million to £35 million in a short period of time. Industries such as chemicals, steel, ceramics, cement and shipping face unique challenges due to their extreme energy intensity. The UK's glass industry faces an increasingly challenging position with energy costs tripling and gas bills quadrupling, putting manufacturers at a competitive disadvantage."]
Specific Asks
['The Government must introduce a proper package of measures to support energy-intensive industries, including addressing the issue of high industrial electricity prices in the UK. The Minister should outline when reports on annual energy prices and bill impact will be reinstated and provide updates on any progress made in conversations for affordability and fairness.']
Trans-Pennine Railway
30 June 2021
Responding: Robbie Moore
Main Concerns
['I am concerned that the Government plans to short-change the north by cutting back on Northern Powerhouse Rail and bypassing Bradford altogether. Documents reveal that the Government is preparing a diluted version of NPR under the guise of the trans-Pennine route upgrade. The north has endured decades of under-investment, and the potential for economic growth is unparalleled with £343 billion in economic output from eight UK top research institutions and 27 universities.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to provide Parliament today with details on Northern Powerhouse Rail stops that the Prime Minister refused to give a journalist. The Government must either deliver fully on NPR or not at all.']
NHS Dentistry and Oral Health Inequalities
25 November 2020
Responding: Jo Churchill
Main Concerns
['Millions of people are without access to an NHS dentist, a situation that has been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. The British Dental Association estimates that between March and October 19 million appointments were lost. Many practices operate below half their pre-pandemic capacity due to fallow time requirements after treatments. Dentists in deprived communities face significant financial barriers to purchasing necessary ventilation equipment, increasing oral health inequalities further.']
Specific Asks
["The Government should provide capital funding for new ventilation equipment and ensure that dental practices are not under impossible pressure with targets. Data on suspended or cancelled children's planned dental admissions since the start of the pandemic must be provided. Immediate financial support should be given to dentists, including a review of business rates and investment in preventive schemes like supervised tooth brushing."]
Full name of the bill being debated - Which clause or amendment is being debated
10 September 2026
Bill Debate
Led by this MP
The reasoned amendment tabled by the official Opposition has been selected. The amendment aims to introduce significant changes to the bill to address issues related to [specific issue], highlighting ...
Aviation Bill - Clause 1
09 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill aims to restore the Government's power to regulate civil aviation, bolster passenger rights, modernise airspace, and improve safety. It addresses recent disruptions and seeks to ensure robust...
Civil aviation (Consumer protection and regulatory reform) bill [Lords]: Ways and means
09 September 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Raise concerns about the NATS blackout affecting over 100,000 passengers and costing UK aviation tens of millions of pounds, questioning why the Government is not providing a statement despite the sig...
Health and Care Bill - Schedule 12 - Minor and consequential amendments
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. This amendment aims to make minor and consequential changes to ensure the smooth implementation of the Health and Care Bill. These changes are nec...
Not specified in the provided text - Clause being read a Second time
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Karin Smyth, a Labour MP for Bristol South, moved that the clause be read a Second time. The specific details of the amendment and its implications are not provided in the given text.
Not specified in the provided text - Clause being debated is not specified in the provided text
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The provided text does not contain detailed arguments from Karin Smyth beyond the formal motion to read the clause a second time. Further details are needed for a comprehensive analysis.
Not specified in the provided text - Clause not specified, but it is related to Schedule 12
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Karin Smyth is moving that the clause be read a Second time. She has not provided detailed arguments or statistics in this excerpt, but her intent is to advance the debate on the amendments within Sch...
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Bill - New Clause 116
02 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I propose New Clause 116 to introduce a cap on donations from overseas contributors to political parties and candidates. This measure is necessary to ensure the integrity of our democratic process and...
Backbench Business
16 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Iran
15 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker highlighted the critical situation in Iran, noting Britain’s armed forces' commendable work. He mentioned recent US strikes against Iranian targets, stressing the need for a diplomatic sol...
Corpusty Primary School
17 March 2026
The petitioners are concerned about the proposed closure of Corpusty Primary School, a valued rural school in North Norfolk, which has served generations of children in the area.
View Full Petition -->
Recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry
15 May 2024
The petition addresses the long-standing issue of individuals who received infected blood products and have suffered as a result, along with their families, waiting too long for redress.
View Full Petition -->
Funding for Local Pharmacies
06 September 2023
The petition addresses the underfunding of local pharmacies in Bradford South and across the UK, which is threatening their ability to provide essential healthcare services.
View Full Petition -->
Dangerous driving
08 February 2023
The petition addresses concerns about dangerous driving, speeding, and other related offences in the constituency of Bradford South, which are considered threats to residents' safety and quality of li...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
0.0%
0 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
0
0.0% of votes
No Votes
0
0.0% of votes
Abstentions
98
100.0% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
5
PMQs Asked
47
Ministerial Questions Asked
118
House of Commons Debates Involved
5
Westminster Hall Debates Led
19
Statements / Bills
4
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
+37% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+251% above average
This MP:
47
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+99% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2328% above average
This MP:
118
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+101% above average
This MP:
19
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+63% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
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 Judith Cummins's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.