Kevin Bonavia
MP for Stevenage
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
In this increasingly dangerous world the space domain is critical, so I welcome the £3.2 billion set out for space in the defence investment plan. The plan refers to Skynet 6A, the first military satellite to be designed, manufactured and tested completely in the UK, beginning at Airbus in my constituency of Stevenage and supporting 3,000 jobs across the country. Does the Prime Minister agree that we must develop both UK sovereign capability in space and the British jobs that already power it?
Context
The MP welcomed £3.2 billion set out for space in the defence investment plan and referred to Skynet 6A, a satellite designed by Airbus in Stevenage supporting jobs across the country.
Keir Starmer
Our commitment to space in the defence investment plan reflects how we are preparing our armed forces for the conflicts of the future. When I see apprentices working in our defence industries, I see this investment creating more opportunities in many constituencies, including in my hon. Friend's.
Assessment
Did not directly address the specific ask about developing UK space capabilities and supporting jobs
Session: PMQs 2026-07-01
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Many of my constituents in Stevenage were appalled to hear Reform MPs oppose the principle of deploying British troops to maintain peace in Ukraine. Our brilliant armed forces have defended democracy in Europe across the generations, so it is shameful that the leader of Reform opposes that today. That is not leadership; it is surrender. Does the Prime Minister agree that Labour Governments always have and always will defend British interests, not those of Russian dictators or oligarchs?
Context
Reform MPs opposed the principle of deploying British troops to maintain peace in Ukraine. The questioner highlights this as a deviation from Britain’s history of defending democracy in Europe.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
This is a question of values and freedom. I am proud of the British workers, including in my hon. Friend’s constituency, supporting our Ukrainian allies. Ukrainian soldiers are defending European values on the frontline every day. In the event of a ceasefire, a multinational force will carry out defence and deterrence operations and conduct training, planning, recovery and regeneration of Ukrainian forces. This week, the leader of Reform said that Russia had a casus belli—that means a justification for war—in invading Ukraine. He is a Putin apologist using Russia’s talking points.
Session: PMQs
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I pay tribute to a new veterans group in Stevenage, The Muster Point, which was founded by Stuart Mendelson and Steve Black. Last week, I joined them in a continuous 72-hour vigil at Stevenage war memorial, where veterans shared stories of family and friends lost in war. But veterans deserve more than just our tributes, so will the Prime Minister commit to working with veterans in Stevenage and across the UK in delivering this Government’s new veterans strategy in full?
Context
A new veterans group in Stevenage, The Muster Point, was founded by Stuart Mendelson and Steve Black. Last week, a continuous 72-hour vigil was held at the Stevenage war memorial.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
One of the greatest honours in this role is meeting and thanking our armed forces for their service, which we have been able to do during the course of this weekend and week. Our ambition is to bring the armed forces covenant fully into law in the next armed forces Bill, and we will do so. We are also renewing the contract with those who served through our veterans strategy, including Homes for Heroes, and a new network of support centres connecting charities and services with veterans.
Assessment
Did not explicitly commit to working with Stevenage's veterans group in full implementation
Will Bring The Armed Forces Covenant Fully Into Law
Renewing The Contract With Those Who Served
Session: PMQs
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I commend the Prime Minister for his leadership on national security both at home and abroad. Will he outline how this increased defence spending will boost jobs and growth in places such as Stevenage?
Context
The Prime Minister announced a £13.4 billion increase in defence spending, which has been welcomed in Stevenage.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
Our plan for change is built on national security, including economic security. We are returning to a 2.5% investment in defence, and this must mean UK skills, jobs, and apprenticeships. On Monday we announced a new hub and spending targets to help 12,000 SMEs access the supply chain, which will boost economic growth.
Assessment
Did not provide specific details on how it would benefit Stevenage directly
Session: PMQs
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Given that settlement and the extra transformation funding, does my hon. Friend agree that it is now up to the Executive in Northern Ireland to deliver the changes in public services that are so clearly needed?
Context
The MP acknowledges the record funding settlement given to Northern Ireland but seeks clarity on whether this will lead to necessary changes in public services.
Matthew Patrick
Yes, but, as I have always said, it is not just a question of cutting a cheque and walking away. Of course we have given more money to the Executive than has ever been received before in the history of devolution—[Hon. Members: “Hear, hear!”] I am glad that that is welcomed on our Benches, but we also bring partnership working to ensure that public services can turn the corner.
Session: Public Service Reform
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As my ministerial Friends will know, MBDA, which makes the Storm Shadow missiles used in Ukraine, has doubled its workforce in my constituency since 2010 and is investing £4.8 million annually in training. What more can the Secretary of State do to support businesses in the training and resilience of their workforces?
Context
MBDA has doubled its workforce since 2010 and is investing £4.8 million annually in training.
Luke Pollard
In the defence industrial strategy, we set out a £182 million package to invest in skills not only to support people entering defence for the very first time, creating a lifetime of opportunity ahead of them, but to support people retraining their skills. The companies in Stevenage are great examples of how to use that training money well.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps her Department is taking to help ensure that hosting UEFA Euro 2028 supports communities. Hosting such tournaments has previously not always benefited non-host city communities, especially those with clubs like Stevenage FC which delivered £10.7 million in social value last year and is striving for promotion.
Context
The question arises from the opportunity to host UEFA Euro 2028 and the goal of ensuring benefits are spread across communities.
Lisa Nandy
My hon. Friend raises an important point, and I could not agree with him more. Given that he has raised this point here in the Chamber, I will ask my officials to design the programme to ensure that the benefits are felt not just in Stevenage, but across the whole country.
Session: Euro 2028
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Labour's defence industrial strategy will strengthen our security across the whole United Kingdom and deliver an unprecedented growth deal for Scotland that includes £250 million of UK-wide investment and £182 million for skills. For me, this is personal. My grandfather worked in the Glasgow shipyards, part of a proud tradition that has served the whole UK. Does my right hon. Friend agree that a strong Scottish defence sector delivered by a UK Labour Government strengthens all of us?
Context
The MP discusses the personal connection to Glasgow shipyards and asks about Labour's support for a strong Scottish defence sector.
Douglas Alexander
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. My own grandfather worked as an engineer in Glasgow, so I appreciate the proud heritage of which he speaks. The Government's defence industrial strategy will deliver a record boost for Scotland's economy, creating highly skilled jobs for years to come.
Session: Defence Manufacturing Jobs
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What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to support jobs in the defence manufacturing sector in Scotland?
Context
The MP questions the steps being taken to support jobs within Scotland's defence manufacturing sector.
Douglas Alexander
Scotland is at the heart of keeping the UK secure at home and strong abroad. Just last week I visited Australia, New Zealand and Singapore working to strengthen our defence partnerships and increase export opportunities for the Scottish defence industry. That defence dividend has already delivered record orders worth £10 billion for the Clyde shipyards, new investments of £340 million in Rosyth and £250 million in Faslane, and a contract of £453 million for Leonardo in Edinburgh.
Session: Defence Manufacturing Jobs
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Does the Minister agree that the defence industrial strategy presents a huge opportunity for businesses in constituencies throughout the country, including Stevenage and most certainly Northern Ireland?
Context
The defence industry sector is well-established and can contribute to economic growth.
Matthew Patrick
My hon. Friend is right. The strategy is not just about the defence of the realm; there are economic opportunities that come with it. The defence growth deal on which we are working in Northern Ireland will take advantage of that, and will ensure that small businesses in particular can benefit.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy 2025
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As the Secretary of State knows from visiting my constituency, Stevenage hosts a thriving defence and space sector, with more than a quarter of satellites in space built in our town. Next month, Airbus Defence and Space will open Launchpad, a new facility in Stevenage giving small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups space to work and develop technologies. Can the Secretary of State confirm that our innovative primes and SMEs will receive proper attention when the defence industrial plan is implemented?
Context
The question follows a statement about the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the cold war, directed to British-based businesses.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
I can indeed. My hon. Friend is right: his constituency hosts not only some important big UK defence primes, but many very small innovative firms. That is why, as a new Government, we said that we would set a new target for the proportion of defence investment going directly to British SMEs. We set up a new SME growth centre to help them deal with Government, which has previously been too difficult.
Session: Defence Spending Economic Growth
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I thank the Chancellor and the Transport Secretary for freezing rail fares next month, which will help to ease commuting costs, especially for my constituents who use Stevenage and Knebworth stations. However, affordability alone is only part of the railway jigsaw; regeneration schemes like Stevenage station gateway, supported by the Government’s towns fund, are part of a wider £1 billion regeneration programme for our town and provide a real opportunity to modernise transport hubs and improve connectivity, helping commuters get to work more easily. Will my right hon. Friend ensure that infrastructure investment for projects like the station gateway are prioritised, so that commuters can get to work—
Context
The question arises from concerns about the financial burden of rail fares on commuters and the impact of infrastructure regeneration projects such as Stevenage station gateway.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
Transport costs represent 14% of household spending, so the Government took decisive action in the Budget to freeze all regulated rail fares in England for one year from March 2026—the first time that has happened in 30 years. The Government’s action is saving commuters in Stevenage £285 a year on the cost of a five-day season ticket. With the uplift of £120 billion in capital spending, the Government have also committed to the sorts of projects that my hon. Friend mentions, particularly around transport hubs. I will arrange for my hon. Friend to have a meeting with the relevant Transport Minister.
Session: Costs for Commuters
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Airbus, which manufactures satellites in my Stevenage constituency, will soon integrate the civil aircraft wing business at the historical Shorts site in Belfast, close to where Thales tests its satellites and produces vital missiles for Ukraine. Will the Minister work with colleagues across Government and the Northern Ireland Executive to ensure that the defence industrial strategy is complemented by the industrial strategy’s advanced manufacturing sector plan so as to maximise skills, innovation and growth?
Context
The MP highlights the integration of civil aircraft wing business at Shorts site in Belfast, close to Thales's satellite testing and missile production facilities. He mentions the importance of these facilities for Ukraine.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Matthew Patrick)
My hon. Friend is right to highlight the rich expertise in Northern Ireland’s defence sector, which brings benefits right across the UK, including to Stevenage. I assure him that the Secretary of State and I will work across Government and with the Executive to ensure a joined-up approach that benefits Northern Ireland.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy
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My constituent Ed, a leaseholder in Monument Court, Stevenage, has been trapped for years in an unsellable flat after the building failed its EWS1 assessment because Higgins Homes had not followed its own architectural plans. He has faced uncapped and unregulated service charges and utility billing, and the threat of disconnection, while seeing the saleable value of his property decrease by more than £70,0 seven thousand pounds. Will the Secretary of State consider introducing a statutory route through which people like Ed can pursue legal action against a developer without bearing the full cost burden?
Context
A constituent of Kevin Bonavia, Ed, has been trapped in an unsellable flat due to the building failing its EWS1 assessment. He faces uncapped and unregulated service charges, the threat of disconnection, and a decrease in property value by over £70,000.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Angela Rayner)
I am very sorry to hear about Ed’s situation. The Building Safety Act 2022 protects qualifying leaseholders from uncapped costs relating to non-cladding remediation. When remediation is not progressing, leaseholders can apply to the tribunal for remediation orders, which can compel relevant landlords to fix relevant defects in their buildings, as well as for remediation contribution orders, which require developers to pay towards the costs of the remediation.
Session: Leasehold Reform
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I would like to take this opportunity to commend the contribution of the churches in my constituency, from All Saints in Datchworth, which is currently celebrating 850 years of service, to St Mary’s in Aston, where the Rev. Canon Jenny Gray has recently retired. However, another church, St Andrew & St George in the centre of Stevenage, is facing the ongoing problem of theft of copper from its roof—an expensive loss to the church. What can be done to safeguard our churches from such antisocial and criminal behaviour?
Context
The MP commends the contribution of churches in his constituency and highlights a specific issue: theft of copper from St Andrew & St George church, an expensive loss to the church.
Marsha De Cordova (Second Church Estates Commissioner)
I thank my hon. Friend for asking two really important questions. I congratulate the Rev. Canon Jenny Gray on her retirement. Her exemplary service to the community was recognised by the diocese in 2023, when she was made an honorary canon of the cathedral. On metal theft, my hon. Friend is absolutely right that it is criminal and antisocial, and it causes real harm. The Church has been doing a lot of work on this since 2013, and I am happy to write to him to set out that work in more detail.
Session: Community Cohesion
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Recently, I have been made aware of a recurring incident of fly-tipping in Bedwell, in the heart of my constituency. The council is working very hard to clear up the mess and find those responsible, but the situation is being made worse by people picking up that rubbish and taking it to the nearby woods. Will the Minister offer extra support to councils like mine, so that together we can clean up our communities and crack down on criminals who think that they can dump their waste with impunity, wrecking the lives of constituents and making their lives a living hell?
Context
In Stevenage, there have been recurring incidents of fly-tipping in Bedwell, with waste being dumped and then moved to nearby woods by other individuals. The council is actively working on clearing the mess but struggles with ongoing challenges.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Mary Creagh)
I have the greatest sympathy for my hon. Friend’s constituents. I encourage Stevenage borough council to work with our National Fly-tipping Prevention Group, which shares best practice on tackling fly-tipping. We are also taking direct action on some of the littered items, because once there is litter, people think that they can fly-tip and then dump waste.
Session: Fly-tipping
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Mobile phone theft is a widespread concern in my constituency. Between 2019 and 2024, the spate of mobile phone thefts has risen by 22.3%. Can my hon. Friend reassure my constituents that this Government will take all steps to ensure their safety?
Context
Between 2019 and 2024, mobile phone thefts in Stevenage have increased by 22.3%, causing widespread concern among constituents.
The Minister for Security (Dan Jarvis)
I can give my hon. Friend that reassurance. Our recent mobile phone theft summit resulted in clear commitments from attendees to work collaboratively to tackle mobile phone theft and the organised criminality driving it. That is also why our Crime and Policing Bill will give police the power, where it is not practical to wait for a warrant, to enter and search premises where stolen mobile phones are believed to be.
Session: Mobile Phone Theft
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In my constituency of Stevenage, we have an excellent charity called SADA—Survivors Against Domestic Abuse. Such charities rely on multi-agency working to deliver essential services to those affected by domestic abuse. How are the Government continuing to support organisations in working closely together to continue to provide effective services to those who have suffered domestic abuse?
Context
SADA, a charity in Stevenage, relies on multi-agency cooperation to provide services for those affected by domestic abuse.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
I thank SADA for the amazing work that it does. In December 2024, we prioritised confirming funding for those delivering frontline services. In the next few weeks, we will work on agreeing decisions about our wider budget that will support the Government’s ambition of halving VAWG in a decade, to deliver on our manifesto commitments.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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What recent progress has his Department made on strengthening national resilience? The covid inquiry found that years of under-investment under the Conservatives meant our health services were already struggling even before covid, with waiting lists rising for years. Does my right hon. Friend agree that investing in our NHS and tackling terrible delays patients experience are vital to improving our country’s resilience?
Context
The MP referenced findings from the covid inquiry that highlighted years of under-investment leading to struggling health services and rising waiting lists before the pandemic.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Pat McFadden)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to point not just to specific resilience measures but the most fundamental thing for national resilience: the underlying strength of the country and its services, especially in the NHS. We are investing in the NHS and already seeing results with the first fall in NHS waiting lists for years. It is a good start; it is not enough, and we want to build on this progress to treat patients more quickly and improve our resilience.
Session: National Resilience
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In my constituency, Stevenage borough council is working to secure jobs and opportunity, with town centre regeneration under way and over 590 council homes delivered, but outdated infrastructure is holding back growth. Businesses have been clear with me that upgrading Stevenage station gateway would unlock growth, with the prospect of 15,000 jobs being delivered and a £1.5 billion benefit to the economy each year. Will my right hon. Friend meet me to discuss how we can make the most of this opportunity to unlock economic growth through more infrastructure investment?
Context
The MP referenced ongoing town centre regeneration and over 590 council homes delivered in Stevenage. He highlighted the potential to unlock significant economic benefits through upgrading Stevenage station.
Darren Jones (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right that investing in infrastructure will enable growth in cities, towns and villages across the whole of our United Kingdom. We will set out further detail alongside the spending review in our 10-year infrastructure strategy in June. No doubt Stevenage, being sited between London and the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, will benefit enormously from announcements already made, but decisions on specific schemes will be taken by the Department for Transport following the spending review.
Session: Economic Growth New Transport Infrastructure
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Between July 2023 and 2024, over 150 cyber-incidents were reported by the local government sector in the UK. Last year, the average ransom demand from a ransomware attack was over £2.2 million. As the local government sector does not pay ransoms, the average cost to our councils of recovering from a ransomware attack is approximately £12 million. Will my right hon. Friend therefore make additional support available to local authorities to enhance their cyber-security and protect local services for constituents such as mine in Stevenage?
Context
The MP references statistics on the number of cyber-incidents reported by UK local government sectors and the average costs incurred from ransomware attacks. This highlights the financial burden on local authorities.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Pat McFadden)
My hon. Friend is right to draw attention to the threat to local authorities. This is a whole-system threat. In October, my colleagues at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government launched the cyber assessment framework for local government, which sets a clear standard for the sector. They provide monthly cyber clinics and support local authorities to improve collaboration, share intelligence and tackle common vulnerabilities.
Session: Cyber Security
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I thank the Minister for her response. Last year, in my constituency, the Stevenage Football Club Foundation delivered more than 9,000 hours of activity in grassroots sports and engaged over 15,000 participants, generating nearly £10.7 million-worth of social value. This did not happen only in my constituency. Last year, the 72 English Football League community club organisations delivered more than £1.2 billion-worth of social value across this country. Will the Minister commit to supporting local community club organisations, such as the Stevenage FC Foundation, in engaging local people and directly supporting communities?
Context
The MP highlights the significant contribution of the Stevenage Football Club Foundation, which delivered over 9,000 hours of activity and engaged over 15,000 participants last year, generating nearly £10.7 million-worth of social value.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
I pay tribute to the Stevenage FC Foundation and the many other community organisations up and down the country for their important work. Local community club organisations use the power of sport to change lives through charitable and community activities, often through delivery across a range of areas, from health to wellbeing and employment. I have seen it in my own area of Barnsley, with Reds in the Community, which does brilliant work across my town.
Session: Grassroots Sports
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In my first public meeting after the election, residents in Knebworth asked for more fast train services. We got some trains, but there has been poor reliability. Will she meet me to discuss those issues?
Context
Residents in Knebworth called for more fast train services, which have been implemented but with poor reliability issues.
Heidi Alexander
Yes, I think I will have a busy diary coming up. Will she meet me to discuss those issues?
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the clean power plan, which the Government published last week, which lays out the route to energy security and lower bills. Will my right hon. Friend provide more detail on how our new national champion, Great British Energy, which is backed by the overwhelming majority of the public in Stevenage and elsewhere, will form part of this new plan?
Context
The MP welcomes the clean power plan and inquires about how Great British Energy will form part of it.
Ed Miliband
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Great British Energy—headquartered in Aberdeen—is already up and running. Our plans for Great British Energy will be rolled out in the new year. Those plans include working with local communities for solar on schools and hospitals, so that we can start cutting bills for public services and local communities.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Secretary of State agree that unpaid carers such as Norman play a vital role in providing care, and that they need to be at the heart of any reforms to the social care system?
Context
The MP highlights the role of unpaid carers and the need for them to be at the heart of social care system reforms, citing a constituent's 18-year experience.
Wes Streeting
Unpaid carers are vital partners in building a 10-year plan for social care, with investment through the carer's allowance uplift announced by the Chancellor and an increase to the weekly earnings limit since 1976.
Session: NHS Health and Social Care Reform
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What plans does he have to reform NHS health and social care services?
Context
The MP seeks reforms in the NHS, prompted by ongoing challenges within the healthcare system.
Wes Streeting
The Chancellor announced investment in the Budget, confirming new league tables of NHS providers, turnaround teams for struggling hospitals, a college of executive and clinical leadership, banning NHS trusts from using agencies to hire temporary workers in bands 2 and 3, sending top clinicians to areas with long waiting lists and high economic inactivity, running a GP red tape challenge.
Session: NHS Health and Social Care Reform
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I am very pleased to hear that from the Minister. I am proud that in Stevenage, independent domestic violence advocates and independent sexual violence advocates working for Survivors Against Domestic Abuse—also known as SADA—do brilliant but challenging work supporting those who are at risk and suffering as a result of domestic or sexual abuse throughout Hertfordshire. There is no doubt that IDVAs and ISVAs are a key part of domestic abuse provision across the country, so will the Minister assure me that the Government will continue to support them in the vital work that they do?
Context
The work of Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVAs) and Independent Sexual Violence Advocates (ISVAs) is crucial in supporting victims of abuse, but there are concerns about their continued support.
Jess Phillips
Having done that work myself, I am more than happy to champion and praise the work of IDVAs and ISVAs. As my hon. Friend might imagine, we will use every tool available to us, including those vital roles, to target perpetrators and address the root causes of abuse and violence.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Across the UK, the hospitality sector generates £93 billion per year. In my constituency, there are many examples of local entrepreneurs, including on the old town's High Street and in our neighbourhood centres, who provide an excellent service for residents and visitors alike. What can my hon. Friend do to help our hospitality services grow in Stevenage and across the UK?
Context
The hospitality sector generates £93 billion per year in the UK and plays a significant role in the local economy of Stevenage.
Tulip Siddiq
I am fully aware of the assets of my hon. Friend's constituency, including the neighbourhood centres that he mentions, and the surrounding villages, which host amazing music festivals. I recognise the contribution of the hospitality sector in Stevenage to the UK economy, and I know he is a great champion of the borough business club. I am confident that our Government's growth mission will ensure that hospitality businesses in Stevenage continue to grow. The Government look forward to working with organisations such as UKHospitality to facilitate that.
Session: Economic Productivity
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The MP asks for further examples of work being done to address the skills gap, including intentions for future initiatives and partnerships.
Context
The MP acknowledges the importance of addressing the skills gap and economic inactivity in Northern Ireland.
Fleur Anderson
Work is ongoing with various skills providers across Northern Ireland to support well-paid jobs. We are working closely with the Northern Ireland Executive to continue providing support in this area.
Session: Promoting Business and Growth
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I am proud that my constituency is a top location for life sciences companies to develop cutting-edge technologies... Does my hon. Friend agree that we need to do all we can to support innovative SMEs in the life sciences and space sectors?
Context
BioOrbit is building a pharmaceutical factory in space to leverage the benefits of microgravity, and GSK hosts more than 40 small and medium-sized enterprises. Kevin Bonavia wants to ensure that these companies receive all necessary support.
Feryal Clark
Earlier this week we published the industrial strategy Green Paper to drive long-term growth, secure investment in crucial sectors including life sciences, and build an NHS that is fit for the future. We aim to renew UK's leadership in life sciences through innovation and collective partnerships.
Session: Life Sciences Stevenage
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What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to support the life sciences sector in Stevenage constituency?
Context
The constituency of Stevenage has a thriving life sciences community, including organisations like GSK and Autolus. Kevin Bonavia is concerned about the steps being taken to support this sector.
Feryal Clark
The Government has a clear plan for supporting the life sciences sector as set out in our life sciences plan. We encourage companies to expand their footprint in Stevenage, supported by initiatives such as the cell and gene therapy catapult and skills and training laboratories.
Session: Life Sciences Stevenage
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Will the Secretary of State consider a fairer funding settlement for SEND provision in Hertfordshire when she is next able to do so?
Context
There are many heartbreaking experiences faced by children and young people in Stevenage, with waiting times for SEND services much higher than the national average.
Bridget Phillipson
My hon. Friend is right to draw attention to the significant interest in the Westminster Hall debate and the importance of getting this issue right. I agree that it is important that there is a fair education funding system that directs funding where it is most needed, including looking carefully at changes required, including in Hertfordshire.
Session: SEND Provision
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Can the Secretary of State provide an update on consultations with Hertfordshire county council and borough/district authorities?
Context
Conservative cuts have held back Stevenage. The Government's devolution agenda aims to rebuild and improve local services.
Jim McMahon
We are reviewing current consultations and devolution agreements, and I am happy to meet my hon. Friend outside this Chamber to discuss further.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Children and Bereavement
02 December 2024
Responding: Catherine McKinnell
Main Concerns
['The lead MP highlighted the lack of data on bereaved children in the UK, noting that without knowing the true scale of childhood bereavement, services are unable to offer proactive support. He cited a case where Mark Lemon experienced the murder of his father at age 12 and received no help until his twenties. The MP also stressed the importance of adding content on death, dying, and bereavement to the national curriculum to prepare children for life as adults.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asked the government what legislation would be needed to allow registrars to collect data on the number of bereaved children at the point of registering a death. He also inquired about support and training for registrars to direct families towards charities and bodies that can help. Additionally, he questioned the latest guidance following a recent curriculum review and whether bereavement education could be included.']
Local Government Reorganisation
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
08 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The House recognises the threat posed by Russia and China, as well as the uncertainty regarding US reliability within NATO. It acknowledges the UK's current military shortfalls and calls for a program...
Early Release of Prisoners
07 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Calls on the Government to exempt from automatic early release under the Sentencing Act 2026 offenders who have been convicted of sexual offences against adults or children, including rape and groomin...
Defence Investment Plan
30 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Armed Forces Act 2026 - Amendments 2, 3, 4, 88, and 89
02 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Ms. Nusrat Ghani proposes several amendments to the Armed Forces Act 2026 aimed at ensuring continuity of support for children with special educational needs, adoption and fostering arrangements, NHS ...
Debate on the Address
13 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Student Loans
18 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
International Women’s Day
12 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
It is an honour to open this International Women’s Day debate, which is being held in Government time for the first time since 2020. International Women’s Day was forged in the labour strikes of the e...
Bereaved Children: Government Support
26 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate seeks to address the lack of support available to bereaved children, highlighting the personal experience of the MP whose father died suddenly when she was young. The speech emphasises the ...
Gibraltar Treaty
26 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
83.7%
82 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
34
34.7% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
16
16.3% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
4
PMQs Asked
29
Ministerial Questions Asked
49
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+9% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+116% above average
This MP:
29
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+908% above average
This MP:
49
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+21% above average
This MP:
83.7
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 Kevin Bonavia's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.