Kate Osborne
MP for Jarrow and Gateshead East
Lab
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Chief Medical Officer highlighted the problems of untreated sewage in rivers and seas. Water firms are asking for bills to rise by up to 91%. Can PM tell me why his Government allow companies to damage waterways, make profits, and harm people's health?
Context
England's chief medical officer said reducing sewage is a public health priority.
Rishi Sunak
We have monitored 100% of overflows, invested record amounts in infrastructure, set strict targets, and introduced unlimited fines. Labour could not vote for its own policy.
Assessment
Did not address why PM allows firms to damage waterways and profit excessively
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Will the Deputy Prime Minister commit to finally ending this gay tax for same-sex couples who want to start a family?
Context
The MP highlights Lesbian Visibility Week and the financial barriers faced by same-sex couples in accessing IVF.
Oliver Dowden
I would dispute the hon. Lady's characterisation of the Government's record in this area: it was this Government who introduced marriage for same-sex couples and passed the Turing law.
Assessment
The specific ask for a commitment to remove financial burdens on same-sex couples seeking IVF was not addressed with concrete details or commitments. The answer focused on past achievements instead of addressing the current issue.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
I heard the Prime Minister's responses to the Leader of the Opposition. Just like the Business Secretary's claims that delays on compensation are wild, baseless allegations, his answers are unbelievable. The response from the Government Benches to the quote from my constituent Chris Head was completely disrespectful. The reality is that we would not have any action without the ITV serialisation of the sub-postmaster scandal— Government Members can shout all they like, but we all know that is the case. The Prime Minister has promised a new law to swiftly exonerate and compensate victims. Today he said “shortly”, so will he commit today to ensuring that it is brought forward before the next general election?
Context
The ITV serialisation of the sub-postmaster scandal has led to delays in compensation.
Rishi Sunak
Yes, the legislation will be brought before the House very, very soon.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
New inflation stats show that food inflation is at 18%, the highest since 1977. Millions are struggling due to high costs of living. How can the Prime Minister claim his plan is working when so many people find it hard to afford weekly groceries?
Context
Food inflation has reached 18%, highest in 45 years, causing food and fuel poverty.
Rishi Sunak
Since 2010, 2 million fewer people are in poverty due to actions by Conservative Governments. Our plan is crucial as we aim to halve inflation this year per OBR forecasts. Meanwhile, programmes like free school meals and holiday activities support vulnerable families.
Assessment
Did not address the specific ask about admitting economic strategy failures.
Acknowledges Issues Without Conceding
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
In 1936, people from my constituency marched to Parliament demanding jobs. They were living in poverty and were hungry. Some 86 years later, 39% of kids in Jarrow are still hungry. Will the Deputy Prime Minister and the Government end that scandal and commit to providing free school meals to all 800,000 children—40,000 of whom are in the north-east—from households in receipt of universal credit?
Context
The questioner highlights the ongoing issue of child hunger in Jarrow despite past promises, and asks for a commitment to provide free school meals.
Dominic Raab
I thank the hon. Lady. She will know that we have extended the eligibility of free school meals to 1.9 million pupils. On top of that, there is the £200 million holiday activities and food programme and the £1,200 of direct payments to the most vulnerable.
Assessment
Did not provide commitment for all 800,000 children or specific action
Under Review
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The MP argued that privatisation does not work for services like healthcare or postal services. She noted Royal Mail's profit while universal service obligation is at risk. She asked if the PM would launch an inquiry into Royal Mail's management.
Context
The MP criticized privatisation efforts, citing issues in the NHS blood service and concerns about Royal Mail's profitability versus public service obligations.
Elizabeth Truss
The PM stated focus on delivering an efficient postal service, dismissing the question as ideological rather than practical.
Assessment
Instead of addressing whether to launch an inquiry into Royal Mail's management, she dismissed the question entirely.
Dismissed As Ideological
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
When will the Prime Minister stop giving meaningless soundbites and start supporting working people across the country?
Context
Tens of thousands protested against the Government, rail workers are on strike, Royal Mail workers and NHS staff are on verge of taking industrial action. Ministers plan to boost City bosses' pay while demanding wage restraint.
Boris Johnson
If she wants to support working people, she should get off the picket line, talk to her party leader, and support reducing transport costs for travellers.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The Prime Minister says that he is fanatical about buses, but what about trains, and not just in Darlington? I am talking about the Leamside line. Last Wednesday, I was notified that a joint bid to reinstate the mothballed Leamside line had not been successful in attracting the next stage of the feasibility funding from the Government as part of the restoring your railway fund. Will the Prime Minister tell us what specific plans the Government have to invest in the north-east, in places such as Gateshead and south Tyneside in my constituency, and when will he get serious about levelling up in our communities instead of just using the term as a meaningless, populist slogan?
Context
The Prime Minister claims to be fanatical about buses but does not address trains, specifically the Leamside line.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Lady must wait for the integrated rail plan, but the north-east will be the beneficiary of the biggest investment in our rail infrastructure beyond HS2 that we have seen for a century. We will be putting in about £96 billion more, and we want the local and regional authorities to work with us to ensure that we promote the projects that the people really want.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not provide specific plans for investing in rail infrastructure.
Integrated Rail Plan
Biggest Investment Beyond Hs2
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Government plans to scrap the union learning fund mean that thousands of workers—about 200,000 a year, many of them low-paid—will miss out on training opportunities. With unemployment levels rising, will the Prime Minister today act on his commitment to offer a lifetime skills guarantee to help people to train and retrain at any stage in their lives, and reverse this decision to ensure that working people can access education, training and skills for the future?
Context
Government plans to scrap the union learning fund mean that about 200,000 workers a year will miss out on training opportunities. With rising unemployment levels, there is concern over how these people can access education and retraining.
Boris Johnson
That is exactly what we announced only a few weeks ago with the lifetime skills guarantee. The purpose of the lifetime skills guarantee is this: if you are over 23, you are not currently eligible for support from the Government in getting a new skill or a new qualification, but we will now pay you for that skill—we will support you. Particularly in the context of this pandemic, we want to help to train and retrain people throughout their lives so that they can adjust to our changing economy. The hon. Lady makes a very good point.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Yesterday, the Health Secretary said, and I quote: “We have the largest testing system imaginable.”—[Official Report, 8 September 2020; Vol. 679, c. 527.] Yet in my constituency of Jarrow, which is one of the Government's areas of concern, people are struggling to get a covid test. This is not criticism or an attack on our NHS, but it is months since the Prime Minister promised us all a world-leading test, track and trace system, so I ask him: where is it?
Context
The Health Secretary said they have the largest testing system imaginable, yet people in Jarrow are struggling to get a covid test despite months of promises for a world-leading test, track and trace system.
Boris Johnson
I have every sympathy with those who now want to get tests, and the demand is very acute, partly because so many people who do not have symptoms want a test. Our view is that the priority should be those who do have symptoms, and the groups that I mentioned earlier. We will do everything we can to address the issues in Jarrow and across the country. I remind the hon. Lady that NHS Test and Trace has so far conducted 17.6 million tests, which is more than any other European country, so she should take at least some pride in that.
Assessment
specific system location
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Despite earlier waffle from the Prime Minister, will he commit to extending the job retention scheme or are we expecting further incompetence?
Context
Concerns about the end of the job retention scheme in October leading to catastrophic consequences for workers, businesses and the economy.
Boris Johnson
I thank the hon. Lady for her question, and I assure her that our job retention scheme has been an enormous success in protecting millions of jobs across this country.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Like many other sub-postmasters, my constituent Chris Head has been affected by the Post Office Horizon IT system scandal. These errors have resulted in bankruptcies, imprisonment and even suicide. Will the Prime Minister today assure Chris and others that he will commit to launching an independent inquiry?
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
I am indeed aware of the scandal to which the hon Lady alludes and the disaster that has befallen many Post Office workers—I have met some of them myself. I am happy to commit to getting to the bottom of the matter in the way that she recommends.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
As part of the Government's review of the statutory relationships, sex and health education guidance, will the Minister make it clear that parents should be involved in decisions that affect their children, including if their children are gender-questioning?
Context
The MP brings up the previous Government's commitment to a parent-first approach regarding guidance. She asks for clarity on parental roles, particularly if their child is questioning their gender.
Nia Griffith
We are looking at consultation responses and will respond fully as is appropriate.
Session: Banning Conversion Practices
View All Questions -->
I am leading on a report for the Council of Europe to ban those abhorrent practices across Europe and I am pleased to hear from the Minister that we will soon be setting out legislation. Will the legislation be fully inclusive, without any exceptions, so that we can refer to it as best practice for all countries to use?
Context
The MP is concerned about the harmful impact of conversion practices on individuals, particularly trans people. She mentions a meeting in Parliament where panelists discussed their experiences with so-called conversion therapy.
Nia Griffith
We are committed to bringing forward a full trans-inclusive ban on conversion practices, protecting LGBT+ people from abuse. We will engage further with parliamentarians and stakeholders in the new year.
Session: Banning Conversion Practices
View All Questions -->
My constituent David has reported that his service charge has tripled in the past few years, even though dangerous cladding has still not been removed. What more can be done to help people challenge unfair service charges?
Context
A constituent has faced significant increases in service charges without the resolution of dangerous cladding issues.
Matthew Pennycook
One of the most urgent things we need to do is to bring into force the provisions of the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act. That will increase transparency and standardisation across service charges, but we want to go further. We are committed to finally bringing the feudal leasehold system to an end.
Session: Leasehold Reform
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister agree to meet them and the PCS about this worrying situation?
Context
Concern arises from reports of trade union members facing disciplinary proceedings at HMRC.
James Murray
As Ministers, we greatly value and respect trade unions and the work of trade union representatives in supporting their members. While it is not appropriate for me to comment on individual cases, I will look into this matter further and respond to my hon. Friend in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What steps are being taken to support peace and human rights in Colombia? As a UN Security Council penholder for Colombia, what new initiatives will the Government take towards full implementation of the 2016 peace agreement?
Context
The MP asked about the UK's role in securing the full implementation of the Colombian peace agreement, given its UN Security Council penholder status.
Catherine West
I thank my hon. Friend for her interest; she has visited the region and raised these issues. Colombia is a human rights priority country, and we work closely with the Government to address violence against women and girls. The UK committed £80 million to peace, stability, and human rights in Colombia.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Why does the Government still insist on giving subsidies worth billions to the oil and gas industry through loopholes in the windfall tax, when economic forecasters warn that delays in decarbonising will leave consumers with higher prices?
Context
The MP cites a significant proportion of constituents in fuel poverty, specifically Maureen's case with an additional monthly cost of £975 due to the disability price tag. She questions the Government's decision to subsidize oil and gas through windfall tax loopholes.
Amanda Solloway
We are committed to helping vulnerable people and have halved energy bills. The Minister has constant meetings with stakeholders including Citizens Advice and disability groups, ensuring support in the cost of living crisis.
Session: Fuel Poverty
View All Questions -->
What are the plans for investing in northern communities to address persistent unemployment issues?
Context
The Jarrow march against unemployment happened 87 years ago, yet the region still faces high unemployment rates.
Mel Stride
There are now nearly 4 million more people in employment than there were in 2010, including about 2 million more women, and unemployment is at a near-historic low.
Session: Regional Inequalities in Employment
View All Questions -->
My hon. Friend will be aware that health inequalities can also be geographical within the south-east, with boroughs such as Bexley having historically received less funding than other parts of London. Does he therefore agree that further investment in the fantastic Queen Mary's Hospital Sidcup would address that issue and improve health outcomes for people in south-east London?
Context
Health inequalities can also be geographical, with some boroughs like Bexley receiving less funding than other parts of London.
Neil O'Brien
My hon. Friend is assiduous in making the case for his constituency. Ministers of course will meet him to discuss this matter, and I know he is closely following the progress of the CDC bid which we have been talking about.
Session: Health Inequalities
View All Questions -->
People in the north-east die younger than people in the rest of England and spend more years in ill health. Increased NHS waiting times leaves them on medication for longer. The north-east has the highest level of people living in poverty, leaving many constituents unable to afford prescription charges. Some have told me they are taking paracetamol instead of prescribed medication, worsening health inequalities. Will the Minister commit to scrapping these unfair prescription charges?
Context
Health inequalities persist in the north-east, with people dying younger and spending more years in ill health. Increased NHS waiting times exacerbate issues.
Neil O'Brien
Nine out of 10 prescriptions are not paid for, but free at the point of delivery. We are creating 160 extra community diagnostic centres targeted at areas of highest deprivation and rolling out targeted lung health checks in 43 deprived areas. The cost of living support worth about £3,300 for average households in this country is one of the most generous schemes anywhere in Europe.
Session: Health Inequalities
View All Questions -->
As UN Security Council penholder for the Colombian peace agreement, what technical and financial assistance can the Government provide to ensure that all of Colombia's institutions are supporting peace?
Context
Colombia's Attorney General Barbosa was appointed under the previous government, who oversaw numerous human rights scandals. The current challenge is that Barbosa is harming President Petro's 'total peace' policy by blocking the lifting of arrest warrants.
David Rutley
As I have said, we are working very closely together at the highest level. The Foreign Secretary has met President Petro and the Foreign Minister to push the cause for peace, and I was fortunate to attend the UN Security Council in January. We want to continue to tackle the challenges in Colombia, working with our Colombian counterparts, and we have put serious investment into that cause to back up our penholder relationship.
Session: Colombia Establishing Peace
View All Questions -->
What diplomatic steps is he taking to support the Colombian Government to establish peace in that country? Colombia's Attorney General Barbosa was appointed under the previous government, who oversaw numerous human rights scandals. Barbosa is now harming President Petro's 'total peace' policy by blocking the lifting of arrest warrants that would enable some leaders to come to the negotiating table.
Context
The question arises from recent events in Colombia, including the rescue of four children in the Amazon. The previous government's human rights scandals and current challenges to President Petro's peace policy are also relevant.
David Rutley
We share Colombia's delight for the rescue of the four children in the Amazon. We commend the efforts of all those who took part in the inspiring search and rescue. During his visit to Colombia last month, my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary met President Petro and Foreign Minister Leyva and discussed our ongoing support for the implementation of the 2016 peace agreement in Colombia. Through our conflict, stability and security fund, which has now committed £80 million since 2015, we will continue to support the implementation of the peace agreement and improved stability and security in Colombia.
Session: Colombia Establishing Peace
View All Questions -->
Last week, I met with NASUWT North East and the South Tyneside branch of the National Education Union which expressed concern over real-term pay cuts and unmanageable workloads leading to an unacceptable rise in vacant teaching posts. When will action be taken on these issues by increasing teachers' pay and reducing their workload?
Context
The Minister has acknowledged data showing a rise in unmanageable workloads and teacher leavers. The NASUWT North East and the South Tyneside branch of the National Education Union raised concerns about the recruitment and retention crisis.
Nick Gibb
We are currently considering the School Teachers Review Body's recommendations regarding teachers' pay. In terms of workload, we have established three important workload working groups which have led to a reduction in weekly teaching hours by five hours over recent years.
Session: Teachers Recruitment and Retention
View All Questions -->
Most of the UK's poorest pensioners are single women, and the gender pensions gap needs to be addressed. Will he agree to urgently put forward a compensation package to deal with the injustice faced by 1950s women—the WASPI women?
Context
The concern is about the impact of the spring Budget on women, particularly regarding pensioners and the gender pensions gap.
John Glen
I do not accept that. I think the WASPI issue has been covered many times, by Ministers from the Department for Work and Pensions and elsewhere.
Session: Budget Gender Equality
View All Questions -->
If he will make an assessment with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the spring Budget on gender equality. I thank the Minister for his response. Let me help him out. If he had made an adequate assessment, he would have found that the spring Budget failed women. It failed young women, women in work and pensioners.
Context
The question arises from concerns about the spring Budget's effects on gender equality, specifically regarding women's economic opportunities and public service reliance.
John Glen
The Government remain committed to full genuine gender equality and to supporting women. In particular, we are supporting women into work through our new childcare package, which I just mentioned, allowing people to return to work sooner; encouraging business investment through schemes such as the community investment tax relief; and creating new job opportunities with our labour market package. We are putting in £4.1 billion by 2027-28 to expand free childcare. This Government have a record to be proud of: we have increased the number of women in full-time work; we introduced shared parental leave; we introduced the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.
Session: Budget Gender Equality
View All Questions -->
At an open meeting, residents voiced concern over rising antisocial behaviour in Oswestry. Will future police officers be allocated to market towns like North Shropshire effectively when they arrive?
Context
Residents of Oswestry expressed concerns about increasing antisocial behaviour in the town centre at an open meeting. The police and crime commissioner was present but dismissive.
Suella Braverman
Increased number of police officers through Government commitment will bring more resources on the frontline in forces across the country.
Session: Antisocial Behaviour
View All Questions -->
Northumbria police lost over 1,100 officers and there has been an uptick in antisocial behaviour with thefts and off-road motorbikes. The incident levels are high, prompting a specific surgery with the police and crime commissioner. When will Ministers allow recruitment to vacant policing posts, invest in communities and tackle antisocial behaviour?
Context
The MP is concerned about the increase in antisocial behaviour due to austerity measures leading to significant police officer reductions.
Suella Braverman
Northumbria's police and crime commissioner has received £3.9 million from the Government through safer streets fund, including £3.5 million for projects such as community engagement and target hardening.
Session: Antisocial Behaviour
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State commit to fining water companies up to £250 million for dumping sewage?
Context
Northumbrian Water's underspending on repairs, taking profits of £2 billion a year while pumping sewage into north-east waterways.
Therese Coffey
Ofwat has been given powers to link dividend payments to environmental performance, but no specific commitment was made regarding fining water companies up to £250 million.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
May I welcome the massive and unprecedented increase in the monitoring of illegal sewage discharges, and in particular the welcome steps taken by some water companies for live monitoring so that people can see in real time where sewage is being put into our rivers illegally?
Context
The MP welcomed the significant increase in monitoring for illegal sewage discharges and highlighted live reporting by some companies.
Rebecca Pow
That is yet another measure that has been put in place. There is a requirement now for water companies to report all discharges from storm sewage overflows with dates and deadlines, but some water companies have gone over and above. They already have that in place and some companies, in particular around the coast, are reporting annually.
Session: Environment Agency Budget Sewage Discharge
View All Questions -->
I have raised previously in the House and in letters to Ofwat, the Environment Agency and Northumbrian Water, the disastrous impact on waterways in my constituency of the continued pollution by Northumbrian Water. Sewage was dumped every four minutes during the Minister's years as a junior Minister, with nearly 3 million hours of sewage discharged into waterways and the sea during her tenure as Minister with responsibility for water. As Environment Minister, will she now take action to stop the pollution? When will she publish the clean water and biodiversity targets, as required by the Environment Act 2021?
Context
The MP highlighted that her constituency faces a significant issue of sewage discharge into waterways due to the Environment Agency's budget cuts. She cited Northumbrian Water's pollution causing daily sewage discharge during the Minister's tenure.
Rebecca Pow
I have made it absolutely clear that sewage going into our waters is totally unacceptable. That is why under my tenure as Environment Minister—we set in motion the monitoring that did not happen under Labour, the storm overflows reduction plan, the targets in the Environment Act and the new direction to Ofwat. We are bringing everything together under one hat to tackle this issue once and for all. Because of the work we have done I launched an investigation, which is being undertaken by Ofwat and the EA—the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is working very closely with them. That is uncovering all these incidents. Trust me, we will be clamping down.
Session: Environment Agency Budget Sewage Discharge
View All Questions -->
I have heard from workers at my local court that the common platform system is driving them to despair and judges have said it's not fit for purpose. Can the Minister confirm what cost-benefit analysis was done before making drastic changes? What is being done to tackle flaws in the system?
Context
The MP inquired about the impact of a £300 million IT system, which staff have claimed is driving them to despair. The system was criticized for being unfit for purpose.
Mike Freer
Firstly, I do not accept characterisation of common platform. The hon. Lady forgets about legacy systems that were collapsing and needed replacement. Staff I have spoken with accept while all IT rollouts have teething problems it is a worthwhile programme delivering benefits. If the hon. Lady would like full implementation and benefits laid out in business case, I can share what I can.
Session: Backlog of Criminal Court Cases
View All Questions -->
What is my hon. Friend doing to ensure that cases reported to the Government's new 24-hour hotline are actually prosecuted?
Context
The MP notes that the commitment to introduce specialist rape courts has not been met with only a pilot scheme in four locations. Concerns about under-reporting of rapes, prosecution rates and the need for resources during Christmas period.
Michael Tomlinson
Prosecutions and convictions for rape have increased. There are three pilot areas for rape courts, but each Crown court can take on rape cases. Determined to see prosecutions and convictions rise.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Prosecution Rates
View All Questions -->
Crime is up, charges are down, criminals are getting off and victims are being let down—and that is just in the Met police. Yesterday, we saw the alarming weight of evidence from the Casey report, identifying structural misogyny, racism and homophobia in the Met, with thousands of serving police officers getting away with breaking the law. That cannot be a problem for the Met alone but goes across police forces. That culture explains the failures in our wider justice system, where sexism, racism and homophobia are unrecognised by police officers, and victims are not believed or supported. Unless those issues are addressed, we will never change the appalling low charge and conviction rates for rape and sexual assault, so will the Secretary of State—
Context
The MP referred to the Casey report which identified structural misogyny, racism, and homophobia in police forces.
Rachel Maclean
I thank the hon. Lady for her remarks; I have two observations on what she said. First, she talks about the Met police. The Labour Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is the police and crime commissioner for the London police forces. I also ask her to direct her questions to the Home Office, which leads on these matters. Of course, we will play our part, which is why we are rolling out all the measures in the Crown courts to protect victims of sexual assault and rape, and there is a lot more to do.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls Criminal Justice System Reform
View All Questions -->
Will the new Minister take urgent action regarding sewage discharge by companies like Northumbrian Water? The last Minister refused to act on this issue, and beaches are now closed due to pollution warnings.
Context
Northumbrian Water has paid billions in dividends despite sewage dumping issues. Over 100 beaches have pollution warnings for untreated sewage.
Ranil Jayawardena
The Government passed the Environment Act 2021 and set out £56 billion of capital investment. We ruled out rises that would have added £122 to household bills.
Session: Sewage Discharge
View All Questions -->
What steps are being taken to ensure untreated sewage is not discharged into rivers, inland waterways, and the sea? The volume of sewage spewed out by water companies is unacceptable, causing public outrage. What specific actions will be taken?
Context
Sewage discharge into rivers, inland waterways, and the sea has caused environmental concerns.
Ranil Jayawardena
I instructed water chief executives to write to me formally by 21 September with a plan for significant improvements. I also met the Environment Agency and Ofwat, instructing them to use every enforcement power available to ensure compliance. Further action will be taken if necessary.
Session: Sewage Discharge
View All Questions -->
The Government's latest domestic abuse plan confirms the stark truth that action on domestic abuse is getting worse, with fewer domestic abusers being prosecuted. Three in four recorded domestic abuse cases are closed due to evidential difficulties or because the victim is unable to continue. I hope the new Prime Minister takes the issue more seriously than she did as Minister for Women and Equalities. Will the Minister commit to bringing forward plans to support victims taking action and introducing a domestic abuse perpetrator register?
Context
The question highlights the increasing difficulty in prosecuting domestic abusers, with three out of four recorded cases being closed due to evidential difficulties or the inability of victims to continue.
Amanda Solloway
I commend all the work that has been done on domestic abuse, and all the issues we have to face are not taken lightly. A central count of domestic abuse fatalities is crucial to building the evidence base for effective interventions and preventing future tragedies. This Government have been counting all domestic homicides, domestic abuse-related unexplained or suspicious deaths, and suspected suicides of individuals with a known history of domestic abuse victimisation since March 2020.
Session: Deaths following Domestic Abuse
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to support the families of women who have died in (a) domestic abuse-related suicides and (b) suspicious deaths following domestic abuse.
Context
Families are seeking support after the deaths of women due to domestic abuse, which includes suicides and suspicious deaths.
Amanda Solloway
Every domestic abuse-related death is a tragedy, leaving too many families in grief. In the tackling domestic abuse plan, we committed to significant reforms of the domestic homicide review process to ensure that lessons are learned, victims are supported appropriately and deaths are prevented in the first place. The Home Office is also providing £250,000 in funding to the charity Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse to deliver specialist and expert advocacy to families affected by domestic homicide, domestic abuse-related suicides and unexplained deaths linked to domestic abuse.
Session: Deaths following Domestic Abuse
View All Questions -->
I am disappointed that the north-east will not be home to any 2022 women's Euro football matches. Can the Secretary of State explain why this is and what benefits people from Jarrow and the north-east will gain from the tournament?
Context
The north-east of England has not been selected to host any games in the upcoming women's European soccer championship, despite significant fan disappointment.
Nigel Huddleston
The decision to host events is made by organising authorities, but Government works to level up sporting opportunities across the country. The Secretary of State is sorry about this disappointment and willing to discuss future opportunities.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Given the scale and seriousness of this spiking epidemic, does the Attorney General regard it as acceptable that just 102 people were convicted for spiking offences in the whole of 2021? What more is being done to tackle this?
Context
In 2020, one in twenty victims of sexual assault reported being drugged or spiked. Just 102 people were convicted for spiking offences in 2021. The MP is seeking clarification on the issue.
Suella Braverman
Home Office looking closely at spiking. We take it seriously, concerned about increasing incidents. Data shows improvements in referrals, charges passed on to trial, conviction rate. Want to go further but see early signs of improvement.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Prosecutions
View All Questions -->
When will the vital actions—appointment of a women's health ambassador; legislation against hymenoplasty; and publication of the women's health strategy—actually happen?
Context
The Department promised three urgent actions to tackle the gender health gap, but there is no update on these commitments.
Maria Caulfield
Interviews have taken place for a women's health ambassador, expecting an announcement soon. The women's health strategy will be published in coming weeks.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does he agree that including a consent loophole in the Government's proposals to ban conversion therapy will allow some of its worst practitioners off the hook, inevitably creating more victims who will need support?
Context
The Cabinet Office tendered a contract for the provision of conversion therapy victim support, raising concerns about a consent loophole in Government proposals.
Mike Freer
No, we do not agree. We believe that in a free and open society, consenting adults should be able to take informed decisions for themselves provided there is appropriate advice and information.
Session: Conversion Therapy Ban
View All Questions -->
Does the Minister agree that the Safer Transport Northumbria app is a brilliant initiative and will she commit to providing more funding for our region to tackle violence against women and girls?
Context
The Safer Transport Northumbria app aims to address safety concerns on public transport.
Victoria Atkins
The Minister welcomes local initiatives like the Safer Transport Northumbria app, mentions national efforts including outlawing cyber-flashing on public transport and elsewhere through provisions introduced in the Online Safety Bill. No specific commitment to additional funding is made.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to tackle violence against women and girls. Specifically, what measures are being taken to address sexual offences and domestic abuse?
Context
The question follows the government's publication of their tackling violence against women and girls strategy.
Victoria Atkins
The Government set out their ambitious tackling violence against women and girls strategy which includes plans to roll out pre-recorded cross-examination in Crown courts, give victims of domestic abuse more time to report common assault incidents, and launch a national 24/7 helpline for rape and sexual assault victims.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls
View All Questions -->
Research by the Education Policy Institute found that children from the most disadvantaged areas are less likely to be identified as having SEND than children from more affluent areas, with families in poorer areas facing higher thresholds to accessing support. Why is that the case and what is the Minister's Department doing about it?
Context
Research by the Education Policy Institute found that children from the most disadvantaged areas are less likely to be identified as having SEND than children from more affluent areas, facing higher thresholds for accessing support.
Will Quince
All teachers are teachers of SEND. We are doing a lot of work, and we will do as part of the SEND review, to ensure that teachers are equipped—but not just equipped, that they have confidence—to teach and identify special educational needs. All I would say, as I have said a few times, is that the hon. Lady should wait a handful more days for the SEND review.
Session: Children with SEND Specialist Teachers
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to help ensure that there are adequate numbers of specialist teachers to support children with SEND.
Context
None specified, but the question pertains to ensuring adequate numbers of specialist teachers for students with SEND.
Will Quince
We are committed to ensuring that all pupils can reach their potential and receive excellent support from their teachers. Our reformed initial teacher training content framework and the new early career framework, both developed with sector experts, will equip teachers with a clear understanding of the needs of children with SEND.
Session: Children with SEND Specialist Teachers
View All Questions -->
The cost of living is increasing, with food prices rising by 3.9% year on year. Food banks in Jarrow and Gateshead East are as busy as ever, indicating a rise in poverty. Does the Minister agree that it's time for the Chancellor to commit to ending food poverty through measures outlined in the 'Right to Food' campaign?
Context
Food banks are reporting increased usage due to rising costs, leading to higher levels of poverty.
George Eustice
The Government have put in place a number of measures to help households, particularly with the sharp increase in energy costs. We also have schemes such as the holiday activity programme and provided local authorities additional support for those struggling to afford food.
Session: Food Prices
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has the Department made of the impact of food price rises on household budgets? Food price inflation is at 4.4% in January and events in Ukraine have an effect on energy costs impacting further.
Context
Food prices are rising, affecting household finances.
George Eustice
International commodity prices are heavily influenced by factors such as energy costs and exchange rates. Recent pressures have been sustained and we have seen food price inflation rise to 4.4% in January, up from 4.2% in December. Events in Ukraine and the effect of that on energy prices are likely to have further impacts.
Session: Food Prices
View All Questions -->
On Monday, the Minister said the Government would remove the rule whereby a trans person's spouse has to consent to their gaining a gender recognition certificate. Yesterday, that had changed to helping to avoid spousal consent issues. Can the Minister confirm today that the Government will remove the veto power altogether?
Context
A previous statement by the Minister for Equalities regarding spousal consent issues has changed from removing veto power to avoiding these issues. The question seeks clarity on this issue.
Mike Freer
Yes, I used shorthand referring to a spousal veto. The no-fault divorce legislation being enacted will remove any obstacles related to this issue. If the advice is wrong and the hon. Lady says so, I will double-check it.
Session: Gender Recognition
View All Questions -->
If she will take steps with Cabinet colleagues to de-medicalise the process of obtaining a gender recognition certificate. The Government have consulted on changes to the Gender Recognition Act 2004 but concluded that no changes are necessary at this time.
Context
The question addresses the current medicalisation of the gender recognition certificate process for transgender individuals.
Mike Freer
The Government believe transgender people should live their lives as they wish and have concluded that no changes are necessary at this time based on the full range of views expressed during consultation. The current requirements in the Gender Recognition Act 2004 are considered correct.
Session: Gender Recognition
View All Questions -->
What is the Minister doing to tackle child poverty, specifically in the north-east?
Context
The End Child Poverty coalition reports that many of the UK parliamentary constituencies seeing highest increase in child poverty are in the north-east of England.
David Rutley
Our priority at a time of record vacancies is encouraging people into work. The levelling-up White Paper highlights opportunities for the north-east, and £1.4 million is available through the household support fund in South Tyneside.
Session: Child Poverty
View All Questions -->
What assessment has the Minister made of the reasons for the finding in the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's “UK Poverty 2022” report that child poverty in families with more than two children increased from 33% to 47% between 2012-13 and 2019-20?
Context
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation's report found child poverty in families with more than two children increased from 33% to 47% between 2012-13 and 2019-20.
David Rutley
We have long championed the principle that work is the best route out of poverty, based on clear evidence of the importance of parental employment, particularly where it is full time, in substantially reducing the risk of poverty. In 2020-21, there were more children living in a home where at least one person was working, with nearly 580,000 fewer children living in workless households than in 2010.
Session: Child Poverty
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Lesbian Visibility Week
24 April 2025
Responding: Dame Nia Griffith
Main Concerns
['Lesbian women face intersecting discrimination based on gender and sexuality. Hate crimes have increased, particularly lesbophobia. There are unnecessary financial and practical barriers for same-sex couples regarding IVF, creating a postcode lottery.']
Specific Asks
["The Government should ensure hate crime based on sexual orientation is classified as an aggravated offence and improve guidance following the Supreme Court verdict to protect trans individuals and cis women's rights."]
IVF Provision
24 October 2023
Responding: Maria Caulfield
Main Concerns
["As a mother who conceived through IVF, Kate Osborne is concerned about the discriminatory barriers LGBTQ+ couples face in accessing fertility treatment. She highlights that waiting lists have become longer and financial costs higher since her own IVF journey. The current requirement for same-sex couples to fund up to 12 rounds of artificial insemination privately before accessing NHS-funded treatment has been described as a 'gay tax.' According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, women should be offered three full cycles of in vitro fertilisation after two years of unsuccessful conception attempts. However, some ICBs still demand self-funding for up to 12 rounds, with only four out of 42 ICBs offering treatment without this requirement."]
Specific Asks
["Osborne calls on the Government and NHS England to remove the additional financial barriers faced by same-sex couples in accessing IVF treatment. She requests a clear timeline for implementation and guidance from the women's health strategy, which promised to eliminate these discriminatory practices."]
Royal Mail and the Universal Service Obligation
12 January 2023
Responding: Kevin Hollinrake
Main Concerns
["The universal service obligation ensures a six-day-a-week, one-price-goes-anywhere postal service to 32 million UK addresses. However, Royal Mail is pushing for a reduction in the USO despite making £758 million in profit last year and taking millions in pay-offs on the way out of CEO positions. During the pandemic, posties delivered covid tests and parcels, leading to an influx of cash that was used to award £567 million to shareholders instead of transitioning back to a business-as-usual level of revenue. Postal workers have been undervalued since Royal Mail's privatisation in 2012, despite their essential role during the pandemic. The company has paid out billions in dividends and millions to executives while failing to meet service targets and hiking stamp prices. In Liverpool West Derby, postal workers are facing wage cuts and insecure contracts, with many forced to food banks. CEO Simon Thompson received a £140,000 bonus amidst these struggles."]
Specific Asks
["Will the Minister commit to not reducing the USO? Will they condemn the inflammatory actions of Royal Mail's senior management team and confirm whether the USO is the financial burden it is being portrayed as? The Minister should respond to calls for an urgent inquiry into Royal Mail's leadership and the mismanagement that threatens to break up this historic service. The Government must consider buying back Royal Mail at a cost of £4.6 billion to save it from becoming another gig economy parcel courier."]
Foster Carers
21 April 2022
Responding: Will Quince
Main Concerns
["The number of initial inquiries to foster is at an all-time high with 160,635 inquiries in the year ending 31 March 2021. However, only 10,145 applications—a mere 6%—were actually received. Since 2014, the number of foster carers in England has increased by only 4%, while the number of children in foster care has risen by 11%. Over a third of foster carers said that their allowances do not meet the full cost of looking after a child, and fourteen local authorities reported that their foster care allowances were below the national minimum allowance for at least one age group across England. South Tyneside Council's model of training carers to degrees is highly commendable but relies on factors for which the responsibility lies truly at the feet of Government Ministers."]
Specific Asks
['I would like the Minister to seriously consider the Mockingbird strategy as adopted by South Tyneside and many others, listen to best practice from local authorities, carry out a comprehensive review of minimum levels of fostering allowance using up-to-date evidence to ensure foster carers are given sufficient payment to cover the full cost of looking after a child.']
LGBTQ+ Afghan Refugees
21 September 2021
Main Concerns
['The lead MP is concerned about the safety of LGBTQ+ people in Afghanistan, where they face severe risks including death penalties for same-sex relationships. The takeover by the Taliban has exacerbated these dangers, making it impossible for many to remain or seek refuge safely in neighbouring countries due to ongoing persecution and lack of protection. The MP also highlights that even those who manage to flee may not come forward due to fear from families and communities, and that humanitarian services are still suspended in Afghanistan.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the Government to prioritise LGBTQ+ Afghans in resettlement programmes globally and to commit to pathways tailored for their safety and legal status. She also requests assurance that no LGBTQ+ Afghan refugees will be removed back to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, and calls for responsive family reunification policies that recognise diverse family configurations.']
Colombia — [Mrs Maria Miller in the Chair]
15 July 2021
Responding: Wendy Morton
Main Concerns
["The human rights situation in Colombia is out of control due to state violence; the Colombian Government are refusing to recognise the scale of the problem. Recent protests saw police killing protesters, sexual assaults on civilians, and violence against journalists. The peace agreement's implementation has been slow with only 7% of families signed up for alternative crops programmes actually receiving support."]
Specific Asks
['The UK Government should condemn the violence against protesters, call for judicial processes for abuses during protests, ensure protection for human rights activists and trade unionists, and fully engage in the transitional justice system supporting Colombian counterparts in ensuring protection for frontline defenders.']
Fire and Rehire — [Mrs Sheryll Murray in the Chair]
27 April 2021
Responding: Paul Scully
Main Concerns
['The practice of fire and rehire involves sacking workers and hiring them back on lower wages and worse terms and conditions. According to research by the TUC, this has disproportionately affected black, Asian and ethnic minority workers, young workers and working-class people. Kate Osborne highlighted examples such as Matthew from Hebburn who lost his job at British Gas after refusing new contracts that included a 15% pay cut and longer hours. She also mentioned cases in London, Manchester, Loughborough, and Oxfordshire where workers faced similar challenges due to fire and rehire practices.']
Specific Asks
["Kate Osborne calls for the Government to include fire and rehire in next month's Queen's Speech, either in the Employment Bill or as stand-alone emergency legislation. She urges the Government to act urgently to outlaw this form of industrial blackmail."]
Debate on the Address
14 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The UK labour market is performing well with high employment rates, low unemployment compared to OECD countries, and rising real wages. The government's economic management has put the country in a be...
Backbench Business
12 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focuses on the importance of LGBT+ History Month, acknowledging the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights and the ongoing struggles faced by the community. Nadia Whittome emphasises her gratitude ...
Post Office Horizon Inquiry Volume 1 2025-07-08
08 July 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Sir Wyn Williams has released the first volume of his report into the Horizon scandal, which caused significant harm to postmasters. The Minister emphasises the bravery of those who fought for recogni...
LGBT+ History Month 2025-02-13
13 February 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Minister highlighted the significant progress made in LGBT+ rights, from decriminalisation to marriage equality. She acknowledged past struggles and cited Labour's historical role in advancing LGB...
Puberty-suppressing Hormones
11 December 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Ways and Means
05 November 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
This Budget marks a turning point after 14 years of Tory neglect, focusing on fixing the public finances and services. The Chancellor has delivered on Labour's manifesto promises: protecting payslips ...
Post Office Horizon: Redress
09 September 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Post Office Horizon
30 July 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
25 April 2024
General Debate
Led by this MP
Lesbian Visibility Week was founded in 2019 by Linda Riley, to celebrate and uplift lesbians from all backgrounds. The number of women identifying as lesbian has increased by 64% since 2014. However, ...
Post Office Horizon: Compensation and Legislation
26 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
53.0%
44 of 83 votes
Aye Votes
19
22.9% of votes
No Votes
25
30.1% of votes
Abstentions
39
47.0% of votes
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
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 Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
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: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
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 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
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: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
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
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: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
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
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
12
PMQs Asked
79
Ministerial Questions Asked
70
House of Commons Debates Involved
7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
83
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+226% above average
This MP:
12
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+478% above average
This MP:
79
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+177% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1346% above average
This MP:
70
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-24% below average
This MP:
53.0
Average:
69.5
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Kate Osborne's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.