Kevin Brennan
MP for Cardiff West
Lab
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Just to recap, during this Parliament we have had one Tory Prime Minister who turned out to be a proven liar, and a second Tory Prime Minister who was outlasted by a lettuce. After this week's pathetic no-show by the Prime Minister, what one word would he use to describe himself? Might it be “weak”?
Context
The Prime Minister has faced criticism for leadership and performance, including being outlasted by a lettuce in terms of longevity.
Rishi Sunak
What is weak is those in the party opposite being unable to stand up to the people who fund them and stand behind hard-working families in this country.
Session: PMQs
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Why have the Prime Minister's Government not done more to support genuine fans over the merchants, spivs, and ticket touts?
Context
BBC Radio 4's “You and Yours” has exposed queue-jumping online touts buying up Eurovision tickets for sale on dodgy sites.
Rishi Sunak
We have introduced measures to combat ticket-touting, but I shall be happy to listen to the documentary that the hon Gentleman has mentioned to ensure that we are doing everything we can do. More generally, it is a source of enormous pride for us to host Eurovision.
Assessment
Did not provide specific details on measures against ticket touts or concrete action plans.
Session: PMQs
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During covid, we all applauded our NHS nurses, who put their lives on the line to help millions of our constituents and loved ones. We know now that, at the same time, Tory spivs were helping themselves—using their connections and covid—to millions of pounds of public money. Why is the Prime Minister on the side of the spivs and not on the side of the nurses?
Context
Concern about Tory spivs benefiting financially from PPE procurement processes during the pandemic.
Rishi Sunak
What everyone was doing at the time was working as hard and as quickly as they could to get the PPE needed for our frontline workers, including our nurses. There was an independent procurement process; Ministers were not involved in the decision making. It was right, however, that people gave their ideas about where to get PPE from. Indeed, the shadow Chancellor, the right hon. Member for Leeds West (Rachel Reeves), suggested that we should get it from a law firm and ventilators from a football agent. Everyone was trying as hard as they could. We should remember the context and stop playing politics.
Assessment
Redirected focus to the shadow Chancellor's suggestions instead of addressing PPE procurement issues
Redirecting To Others
Emphasizing Everyone Tried Their Best
Session: PMQs
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My constituent Luke Symons has been held captive by the Houthis in Yemen since five years ago. Other nations have managed to secure releases for their citizens, including the Americans. Will the Prime Minister pledge that his Government will do everything they can to get Luke released from captivity? I request a meeting with the Foreign Secretary to discuss how to achieve this.
Context
Five years ago, Luke Symons was taken captive by the Houthis in Yemen. The questioner seeks assurance that efforts will be made to secure his release.
Boris Johnson
I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising this case again. I know that our staff work hard to try to release people from captivity around the world. Luke Symons is no exception, but I will certainly make sure that the hon. Gentleman has a meeting with the relevant Minister to report on the progress we are making.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not explicitly pledge to do everything possible to secure Luke's release and only offered assurance of ongoing efforts without concrete commitments.
I Will Certainly Make Sure That The Hon. Gentleman Has A Meeting With The Relevant Minister
Session: PMQs
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There is real disappointment that a reciprocal work permit-free deal for touring musicians and performers has not been agreed with the EU. No one is interested in a blame game. It is clearly fixable and in Britain's economic and cultural interest to fix it quickly, but it needs leadership from the top. So will the Prime Minister meet on this virtually with a small group of MPs, including the Conservative Chair of the Select Committee on Digital, Culture, Media and Sport? We are all singing from the same song sheet. Will the Prime Minister please say yes to the meeting?
Context
There is disappointment that a reciprocal work permit-free deal for touring musicians and performers has not been agreed with the EU.
Boris Johnson
I will, of course, ensure that there is a proper meeting with the hon. Gentleman and his colleagues on this subject, which is extremely important.
Session: PMQs
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Victims should know who this Government is letting out of jail early. Given today's revelation that high-risk offenders are being released prematurely, why should the public trust this Government to prioritise victims' interests?
Context
Recent news revealed that high-risk offenders have been released early, which contradicts previous assurances from the Government. This has raised public concern about victim rights and justice.
Laura Farris
Under our scheme, no sexual offender, terrorist offender, or individual convicted of serious violent crime can be eligible for early release. We also have a governor lock system that allows prison governors to prevent unsuitable releases.
Session: Public Confidence in Victim Support
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Did the Minister for Trade Policy, in mentioning 'diplomacy and discretion', have a specific former trade envoy in mind?
Context
The Minister for Trade Policy claimed trade envoys must have qualifications of 'diplomacy and discretion'.
Kemi Badenoch
The Opposition is playing a playground game, which is insulting to every trade envoy. We should not make accusations without evidence.
Session: Topical Questions
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I visited South Korea myself with the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee a couple of years ago and saw those opportunities. However, there is some concern about transparency around the use of trade envoys. Will the Minister confirm to the House that under this Government no trade envoy has ever demanded and been given the use of a house for their exclusive use?
Context
The MP questions the transparency surrounding the use of trade envoys, specifically whether any have been given exclusive use of a house under this government.
Greg Hands
The hon. Gentleman has slightly jumped the gun, as the next question on the Order Paper relates to trade envoys. May I say how proud we are of the cross-party trade envoy programme, which does an excellent and good value-for-money job for the United Kingdom in promoting trade in a number of key markets?
Session: South Korea FTA Negotiations
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At the most recent British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, I asked the Irish Tourism Minister about their ticketing policy and its success, and they said it was very much a success. So may I suggest that rather than dismiss Labour's proposals, the Government should look at the evidence from the Irish Government, rather than listening to outlaw companies such as Viagogo?
Context
The success of Ireland's ticketing policy in reducing fraudulent activity.
Julia Lopez
I spoke to officials this week about the Irish example and they were concerned that it had led to an increase in fraudulent activity. However, we will obviously keep this under review.
Session: Topical Questions
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Would Ministers be equally keen to prevent organisations, such as political parties, using images of His Majesty the King in their propaganda?
Context
The question addresses the potential misuse of royal imagery by organisations such as political parties.
Stuart Andrew
I do not know how to answer that question, if I am honest! [Laughter.] Our party has always been proud to use the Union Jack, because we are a proud Unionist party, and we will always be proud to support the royal family.
Session: National Symbols Regulation
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It is telling that the Minister refuses to disclose how many prisoners are being released early. Does he have any intention, before a general election, of releasing truth about prisoners let out early?
Context
The question stems from public demand for transparency on the number of prisoners released under ECSL.
Edward Argar
We consider annualised publication of these statistics as most appropriate, in line with similar publications such as those on deaths of offenders.
Session: End of Custody Supervised Licence
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Can I please have a meeting with an Immigration Minister as this issue remains unresolved?
Context
A constituent is stuck overseas and the issue was raised last week.
Tom Pursglove
Ministers are always approachable and accessible, and he would be happy to speak to the Member about that matter.
Session: Topical Questions
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My innate lack of deference has probably not got me far in this place over the past 22 years, but it is good to see you in your rightful place this morning, Mr Speaker. The BBC is a great British institution, as the Secretary of State says. In considering the mid-term review, will she reflect on the importance, in this era of fake news, biased comment and social media, of having a space in which information and news are presented impartially and in accordance with editorial guidelines? The BBC is criticised from the left and the right, which probably reflects the fact that it generally gets things right.
Context
The importance of the BBC as a trusted source for impartial news and information in an era of fake news.
Lucy Frazer
The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right that the BBC plays a critical role. It is extremely trusted not only here but across the world. The BBC is an important institution, which is why it is so important that it remains impartial. I know that the director-general agrees and, like me, thinks there is more to do. That is why, in the mid-term review, we set out things that the BBC continues to need to look at. The BBC agrees with our mid-term review and has accepted all our recommendations.
Session: BBC Mid-term Review
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I welcome the Secretary of State's meeting offer. The problem lies in the government's approach being centred on state bureaucracy rather than families' experiences. Nothing we've seen suggests a comprehensive duty of candour, as proposed in the Hillsborough law. Why persist with piecemeal approaches instead?
Context
The problem with the Government's response is that it should focus on family experiences, not bureaucratic convenience. There is no indication from the government that they are committed to requiring public authorities to act with candour and transparency.
Alex Chalk
The recommendations from Bishop James Jones's report were considered carefully, including paragraph 3 which mandates public bodies to act openly, honestly, and transparently. The Inquiries Act 2005 also provides significant powers, but we will keep this under review to ensure transparency in public bodies.
Session: Public Bodies Legal Duty of Candour
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The Government began releasing offenders without announcing a start date; these men are already walking our streets. Why does the Government refuse to tell us how many people have been released, or why they were originally in prison? The public deserves this information regarding who is returning to communities despite court decisions for incarceration.
Context
Without any government announcement, prisons started releasing offenders over a month ago. The number of released individuals and reasons for their imprisonment are not being disclosed to the public.
Alex Chalk
We will make appropriate announcements in due course. We are proud of having a higher custodial population than before under this Government, ensuring public safety by sending serious offenders to prison for life. We use evidence to rehabilitate those capable of it and prioritise protecting women and girls from abuse. As the Under-Secretary of State for Justice indicated, we have steps in place to ensure victims of domestic abuse are protected.
Session: Prison Capacity
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The Secretary of State's emergency early release scheme is meant to tackle a capacity crisis that is entirely of this Government's making, and it excludes only serious violence. Surely domestic abuse and stalking are serious offences, yet they are not excluded from early release. What kind of signal does that give to victims, the public, and indeed perpetrators of violence against women and girls?
Context
The MP criticized the emergency early release scheme for excluding only serious violence and questioned the impact on victims of domestic abuse.
Alex Chalk
We are proud that under this Government sentences for offences such as rape have gone up by a third. We have a situation in which charges are up, the conviction rate is higher and sentences are longer—and, unlike under the Labour Government, people are spending a higher proportion of those sentences in custody. We think that is the right thing to do. To the hon. Member's point, the exclusions in place go beyond what he indicated; they also include sex offences and terrorist offences. Here is a really important point: where the custodial authorities are satisfied that there is a specific risk, there is an opportunity to ensure that release is blocked. That is important, because we will always stand up for victims of crime.
Session: Prison Capacity
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What more are the Government going to do to support education at that level so that skills and training in our creative industries can enable them to keep flourishing into the future?
Context
The question is prompted by an appeal from UK Music at their summer reception regarding more education in creative sectors and support for grassroots music venues.
Lucy Frazer
I hope the hon. Gentleman read the sector vision, which included £5 million in additional funding for grassroots music venues—something we discussed at the Select Committee. We think it is important to have those creative subjects in school; that is why art, design and music are already in the national curriculum.
Session: Creative Industries Skills and Training
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Is the commission preparing any guidance about this new trend we have of Members of this House, who may be candidates at the next election, being given their own TV programmes on some of the new news channels and interviewing members of the Government from their own Benches in the lead-up to a general election? What is the Electoral Commission doing about that?
Context
Members of this House are being given their own TV programmes on news channels, interviewing Government members before a general election.
Owen Thompson
The Committee has not discussed those matters with the commission as yet. The Electoral Commission does not have a role in regulating political or news programmes; Ofcom regulates broadcasters and provides guidance on impartiality.
Session: Election Guidance
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Whether the Electoral Commission has issued recent guidance on elections to political parties and candidates.
Context
The Electoral Commission regularly issues guidance to political parties and candidates. A new trend of Members having TV programmes has emerged.
Owen Thompson
The commission regularly publishes guidance for political parties, candidates and non-party campaigners. It recently submitted draft statutory guidance on digital imprints and a draft code of practice for non-party campaigners for ministerial and parliamentary approval.
Session: Election Guidance
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The Minister has an interesting definition of being “on track”; did the number of decision makers not fall between January and May this year, from 1,333 to 1,280? A constituent recently passed on to me a letter from a firm of local solicitors that said: 'All possible avenues have been considered to avoid this situation but regrettably, the Home Office's long term failure to progress asylum claims, and current Government immigration policy, has made it financially unsustainable for these solicitors “to continue Legally Aided work.” How does it help us as MPs on both sides of the House in our constituency offices, and how does it help with the backlog that the Home Office says it wants to reduce, to make sure that people do not have the legal representation they need to unblock the system and allow progress in asylum cases?
Context
The MP noted a reduction in the number of decision makers between January and May this year, which affected local solicitors' ability to provide Legal Aid services.
Robert Jenrick
I can assure the hon. Gentleman that the problem with our asylum system is not a lack of lawyers; there are plenty of legal representatives around. We have had strong overall progress on the backlog, and I am pleased to say that the early data that I have received suggests that last week saw the best performance in four years.
Session: Asylum Application Backlog
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What recent progress her Department has made on reducing the backlog of asylum applications?
Context
The MP asked about recent progress in reducing the backlog of asylum applications.
Robert Jenrick
We are making good progress, and the latest Home Office statistics show that asylum decisions are up, with a 35% increase since last year in the number made. Productivity has increased, and we are on track to have 2,500 decision makers by September, which represents a quadrupling of the number of case workers.
Session: Asylum Application Backlog
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Given the advantageous position now outlined by the Prime Minister, it's time to restore power sharing. Should the Secretary of State consider setting a deadline?
Context
The Windsor accord offers advantages, yet there is no effective power sharing. The question probes whether a deadline for restoration should be set.
Chris Heaton-Harris
Setting deadlines is unhelpful; efforts should focus on getting things done properly to ensure a long-lasting Executive. The right approach is to work with all parties without setting timelines.
Session: Power Sharing
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What steps she is taking to ensure effective regulation of artificial intelligence technologies?
Context
Discussion on the need for effective regulation of artificial intelligence technologies to unlock opportunities while addressing risks.
Chloe Smith
Artificial intelligence plays a vital role in our economy and society. We recognise the need to act not only to unlock the opportunities but to address the potential risks of this technology. Our White Paper articulates what the responsible development and use of AI should look like, supporting innovation while protecting people so that businesses, consumers and the wider economy can all benefit.
Session: Artificial Intelligence Technologies Regulation
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Musicians are facing difficulties in entering the UK due to Home Office policies. Can you urge the Home Office to provide better access for European musicians?
Context
There have been instances of musicians being turned away at borders despite having valid engagements.
Lucy Frazer
The Department is committed to supporting the creative sector in adapting to touring requirements in the EU. We are looking closely at this issue, and my Department has spoken with the Foreign Secretary about it.
Session: Topical Questions
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I think the Speaker's Committee should have discussions about this issue. Has my hon. Friend seen some recent examples of Conservative party leaflets, where people are being encouraged to return postal vote applications to Tory headquarters rather than back to the local authority, and where millions of people are being disenfranchised through lack of voter ID? Leaflets have also gone out—in Norwich, for example—saying that people do not need ID to vote. Should not the Electoral Commission take the view that although such practices may technically be legal, they are in fact harmful to our democracy?
Context
Concerns were raised regarding Conservative party leaflets encouraging people to return postal vote applications to Tory headquarters and the lack of voter ID requirements, which could disenfranchise voters.
Cat Smith
The code of conduct is of course voluntary, but the code of conduct for campaigners states that parties can provide applications for postal votes but the forms must include the address for the electoral registration officer as the preferred address, even if an alternative address is provided. Campaigners should send on any application forms they receive to the relevant address within two working days, and the commission recommends that any concerns that the code has been breached should be raised first with the candidate, political party or campaigner in question, and any further concerns should be drawn to the attention of the commission. The commission is aware of the Conservative party leaflet in Norwich and has had conversations with the party.
Session: Postal Votes
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I am concerned about the upcoming White Paper on gambling regulations and the draft Media Bill. Can you confirm these details?
Context
Lucy Frazer is about to make an oral statement on gambling regulations and broadcasting reforms.
Lucy Frazer
I will shortly be making an oral statement setting out details of a White Paper to bring our gambling regulations into the smartphone age. My Department has recently unveiled landmark reforms to our broadcasting regulation with a new draft Media Bill.
Session: Topical Questions
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What recent discussions has the Committee had with the Electoral Commission on the security of postal votes?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the security measures in place for postal voting and the potential for fraud or disenfranchisement.
Cat Smith
The Speaker's Committee has not held recent discussions on the matter. The Electoral Commission highlights that voting by post is a safe and popular method of voting, with safeguards in place to protect against fraud. The voluntary code of conduct makes it clear that political parties and campaigners should not assist in completing a ballot paper or handle completed ballot papers.
Session: Postal Votes
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I was delighted earlier this week to host a group of female film and television composers in the House of Commons to celebrate their achievements, but our pipeline of writers of music for film and television is under threat if our musicians cannot travel easily to tour in the United States. I am glad the Minister of State, Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the hon. Member for Hornchurch and Upminster (Julia Lopez), expressed concern about this when she answered my recent question, but she said: “The UK Government cannot interfere in another country's processes and must respect their systems, just as we expect them to respect the UK's processes.” Can the Secretary of State not do a bit better and at least tell the House that the Government are making representations to the US authorities, on behalf of our wonderful musicians and composers, to try to make sure they do not implement these punitive increases in visa costs?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the negative impact of increased US visa costs on UK film and TV composers' ability to travel.
Lucy Frazer
Yes, we are making representations, across Government. Ultimately it is not our decision, but we will be and are making those representations. The hon. Gentleman makes an important point about skills and the pipeline, which I am looking carefully at.
Session: Film and Television Production Industry
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Of course, a very important part of our film and television industry is the music that goes with it and the composers who provide that music. At this juncture, it would be wrong of me to not recognise and send sympathy to the family of Christine McVie, one of Britain's greatest ever songwriters, who sadly passed away yesterday. I was glad to hear what the Minister of State aid about AI earlier, because that will affect film and TV composers, as well as other people within the industry. Will she ensure that in undertaking the AI review, the Government listen very carefully to the views of songwriters and composers who work in the film and television industry during their consultation?
Context
The MP recognises Christine McVie's contribution to British music and asks if the Minister will ensure that during the AI review, songwriters and composers are heard.
Michelle Donelan
I echo the hon. Member's sympathies. Of course, we will listen to all relevant voices, and I am happy for the hon. Member to meet with either myself or the Minister of State, who is responsible for this.
Session: Film and Television Industry
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I thank my right hon. Friend for statistics but these contradict my constituents' experiences: Oksana Vakaliuk from Ukraine waited since 1 May; Adnam Hameed tier 2 in May still awaiting BRP last month; Mohammed Poswall's wife visa stuck since July. These individuals could contribute to our economy and pay tax. Will he meet me to review these cases causing delays specific to my region?
Context
The MP noted specific cases of constituents experiencing delays: Oksana Vakaliuk, a refugee from Ukraine, has been waiting since 1 May; Adnam Hameed was granted his tier 2 visa in May and still awaits his BRP last month; Mohammed Poswall's wife has been waiting since July for her spousal visa.
Robert Jenrick
I would be happy to meet my right hon. Friend. Data suggests most customers receive their BRPs within seven days and system works well but if cases fall through cracks, we aim to fix them.
Session: Biometric Residence Permits
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Will she guarantee to the House today that that will not be one of the areas that has to be cut as a result of the Government's economic plans?
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential cuts to cycling networks and opportunities due to economic plans.
Lucy Frazer
I am pleased to tell the hon. Gentleman that we have already spent significant funds on active travel. There are core funds available, but there are also funds from other Departments, such as the levelling-up fund, the highways maintenance fund and the future high streets fund. Much of that money is already committed.
Session: Cycling Targets 2025 and 2030
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With the announcement, just now, that the Prime Minister has resigned as the leader of the Conservative party, will his temporary occupation of No. 10 Downing Street over the summer qualify as a short-term holiday let?
Context
The question is a humorous one referencing the Prime Minister's temporary stay in the UK's official prime ministerial residence.
Nigel Huddleston
I am sure the hon. Gentleman is enjoying himself, but that is nonsense. I think the important thing to make very clear, as people can see today, is that government continues.
Session: Short-term Holiday Lets Licensing
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On tourism in Wales, when a previous Tory leader resigned, he not only visited Wales but bought a home in Wales. Can I suggest that one way the Secretary of State for Wales could help tourism in Wales is by encouraging the current Tory leader to follow suit, resign and buy a home, although perhaps not in Wales—perhaps somewhere else?
Context
The MP references a previous Tory leader who bought a home in Wales and suggests that the current Tory leader could help tourism by buying a home elsewhere.
Simon Hart
Perhaps I can encourage the hon. Gentleman to persuade his colleague in Cardiff, the First Minister, to drop his ridiculous plans for a tourism tax and for various other means of punishing successful businesses in Wales. If he did that, perhaps we could create some lasting jobs in Wales rather than simply listening to his political protestations.
Session: Tourism Industry
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Has the Electoral Commission considered investigating the use of unincorporated associations to evade final transparency in politics? In Scotland before the Scottish parliamentary elections we saw a number of campaign groups spring up using digital advertising to peddle political messages that used unincorporated association structures to hide the source of their finances.
Context
In Scotland, there has been a rise in campaign groups using digital advertising to hide the source of their finances through unincorporated association structures.
Chris Matheson
The commission is well aware of this issue, but in the recent Elections Bill the Government did not propose any change in the statutory framework under which the commission operates. There is an issue over people and organisations that are not registered as political actors putting out social media posts, because the current digital imprints provisions seemingly do not apply to them.
Session: Digital Political Advertising
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To ask the hon. Member for City of Chester, representing the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission, what assessment the commission has made of the impact of digital political advertising on free and fair elections. Digital political advertising in general is largely unregulated, allowing for misleading adverts and foreign influence, raising concerns across the House.
Context
The question arises from concerns about the transparency and truthfulness of digital political advertising which significantly impacts voter engagement.
Chris Matheson
The commission recognises that many social media companies have taken welcome steps towards increasing transparency around online campaigning, but it also believes that more can be done to deliver the transparency that voters expect. It has recommended that social media companies should publish information about referendum or election adverts on their platforms with standardised data about costs and targeting.
Session: Digital Political Advertising
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On 31 March, Lord Harrington had to apologise for inadvertently misleading the other place when he said that a drop-down arrow was available on the form for Ukrainian refugees in the Ukrainian language. When he apologised, he said that that was “in train”. Will the Home Secretary 'fess up and confirm that it is Home Office policy not to have a translated version of the form, or if it is, where is Lord Harrington's severely delayed train?
Context
The MP criticized a Home Office official's statement about the Ukrainian refugee application form.
Priti Patel
For Home Office officials who work on the scheme, there is guidance about dealing with different languages in the applications, but I am very happy to pick the matter up directly with the hon. Gentleman.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps will the Minister take to ensure that local authorities are meeting their statutory obligation and that our libraries continue to offer access to all communities?
Context
The MP expressed concern that libraries, which are accessible cultural institutions, may not be adequately supported by local authorities due to their statutory obligation.
Nigel Huddleston
The partnership between central Government, DCMS through various funds, and local authorities is important. If there are issues with inappropriate closures, the Secretary of State could intervene.
Session: Local Libraries and Regional Museums
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Will the right hon. Gentleman have a word with the Home Secretary and ask her to look into why someone who is here on a global talent visa for science cannot bring their mother-in-law to stay with them in Cardiff? I hope that the House will want to listen to this question. Liana, my constituent, is from Ukraine and is in Cardiff on a global talent visa. Liana's mother-in-law is depending on the kindness of strangers in Dublin for her accommodation, but the Home Office is not letting her in from Dublin even though there is a home waiting for her in Cardiff.
Context
A constituent, Liana, is from Ukraine and in Cardiff on a global talent visa. Her mother-in-law is staying with strangers in Dublin and cannot enter the UK due to Home Office restrictions.
Simon Hart
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. I suspect that many Members have similar examples of people who, sadly, have slipped through the net or are in a difficult position. I absolutely give him an assurance, as I know the Home Secretary will, that we will look at each and every one of those individual cases and, hopefully, we will deliver to him the answer that he needs.
Session: Ukraine
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Further to the question from my hon. Friend the Member for Newport West (Ruth Jones), I am afraid the Secretary of State's response just reflects the fact that his approach to this issue is laissez-faire and complacent. People on both sides of the House will tell him that there is a real problem with these scooters. The Government's policy is encouraging a disrespect for the law, because people are riding them with impunity. As he will know, crashes in London alone went up by 3,000%. Will he really get a grip on this issue? Everybody knows it is a real problem, but he is denying it.
Context
The Secretary of State's response reflects a laissez-faire approach to the issue. Crashes involving electric scooters have increased by 3,000% in London alone.
Trudy Harrison
I thank the hon. Member for his question, but I refer him to the 31 trials currently ongoing throughout the country to identify how we can legislate in the safest possible way. We regard micro-mobility as an essential part of the transition towards a much cleaner community, but I will endeavour to meet colleagues in the Home Office to discuss matters of policing with regard to illegal electric scooters.
Session: Topical Questions
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When the Secretary of State is thinking about the future of the licence fee, will she talk to those in the independent sector that the right hon. Gentleman mentioned? Far from saying that they are being squeezed out, they will tell her that the BBC and the system we have of a mixed economy in our creative industries in this country are underpinned by the quality of the BBC. It exercises a gravitational pull that is the envy of the world.
Context
The MP argued that the BBC supports a mixed economy in creative industries and suggested not to tinker with the system out of ideology.
Nadine Dorries
I do speak regularly to the independent sector, including Channel 4 and other bodies within the sector. I take comments on board that the BBC is essential for Britishness and broadcasting excellence, but there have been some problems recently highlighted during the response to the Serota review.
Session: BBC Licence Fee
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Why have Welsh councils still not had a response on community fund renewal projects that are supposed to be completed by March 2022? If the Secretary of State and his ministerial colleagues cannot do the business, they should get off the pot.
Context
Concerns about delays caused by UK Ministers for Welsh councils' community fund renewal projects.
Simon Hart
In the last 18 months or more, I have spoken to numerous individuals, charities, churches, universities, the private and public sectors, businesses, investors—you name them, we have spoken to them. Not a single one has raised the concerns that the hon. Gentleman raises this morning. They are committed to the economic recovery plans that we are talking about, and, as I said in answer to a previous question, if all these question sessions do is relegate these exchanges to some kind of cheap political point scoring, we will not make the progress that he seeks.
Session: Devolution Settlement
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Will the Minister undertake to bring forward similar regulations in England and Wales?
Context
Welsh Labour Government introduced new regulations to stop puppy and kitten sales.
Robert Buckland
Law in England and Wales should be consistent; we will look carefully at this issue, gather evidence quickly and do everything possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is not the truth that the Prime Minister signed up for something in the protocol that he had no intention of honouring, in the way and practice he has followed throughout his life?
Context
The MP questions whether the Prime Minister has followed through on his commitments regarding the protocol.
Brandon Lewis
The protocol is clear it will not disrupt everyday lives but respect the UK market and Good Friday/Belfast agreement. Arguably, two of these things are in breach now, so we have a duty to deliver for Northern Ireland's people.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol Implementation 2021-06-16 (2)
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What recent assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol?
Context
The MP is questioning the assessment of the protocol's effectiveness given ongoing challenges and impacts on trade.
Brandon Lewis
We have taken extensive steps to implement the protocol, including providing £500 million for a range of support schemes. The trader support service alone has created 1.8 million declarations and supported nearly 700,000 consignments since January. Despite these efforts, significant challenges persist with trade disruption affecting livelihoods.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol Implementation 2021-06-16 (2)
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Perhaps the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster should have read the warning signs when Dominic Cummings used to sign in at his Department, when he was Secretary of State for Education, under the name Osama bin Laden. That might have been the moment when he could have dealt with the issue. On the right hon. Gentleman's responsibility on public appointments, what is going on with that of Ofcom chair? We read in the paper today that, apparently, the appointment process has been scrapped and is to be restarted because Paul Dacre failed under the current rules, so those rules are being rewritten so he can apply a second time and be appointed.
Context
The question is about the Cabinet Office's monitoring of public appointments, particularly regarding the Ofcom chair position. There are concerns that the appointment process has been scrapped and rules may be rewritten for a specific candidate.
Michael Gove
Public appointments to Ofcom are of course a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. I should say that the hon. Gentleman would be a superb chair of Ofcom, given the range of experience that he brings.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Songwriters and Composers: Remuneration
07 December 2022
Responding: George Freeman
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the lack of progress on the recommendations made by the Select Committee on Digital, Culture, Media and Sport regarding the economics of music streaming. The report highlighted issues that require further policy interventions, particularly in relation to the current split between publishing and recording rights which has not been addressed adequately. Additionally, there is a growing problem with composer buyouts, where media companies are demanding up front that composers waive their right to royalties, placing them at a significant disadvantage. This practice could severely impact the future pipeline of songwriters and composers in the UK.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Minister to provide an update on the research into equitable remuneration from the Intellectual Property Office and to take a closer interest in driving this work forward. I also ask the Government to explore avenues for resolving the issue of the split between publishing and recording rights, as recommended by the Competition and Markets Authority.']
British Nationals Detained Overseas
20 April 2022
Responding: Amanda Milling
Main Concerns
["Mr. Kevin Brennan is concerned about the detention of British nationals abroad, specifically highlighting the case of his constituent Luke Symons who has been detained by the Houthis in Yemen since 2017. He mentioned that despite numerous promises and negotiations, there has been little progress on securing Luke's release. The family has expressed concerns over Luke's physical health due to poor prison conditions and lack of medical care. Additionally, they are distressed about his deteriorating mental health as a result of isolation."]
Specific Asks
["Mr. Brennan asks the Minister for the Middle East to make it clear that securing Luke Symons' release is a high priority. He requests her to personally take a fresh look at the case and do everything possible to secure Luke's return home, including opening channels with the Houthis and engaging with other countries like France and the US which have successfully secured prisoner releases."]
New Towns 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The New Towns Act of 1946 aimed to address severe housing shortages, overcrowding, and poor living conditions post-war by planning whole communities with homes alongside jobs, schools, services, and g...
Rural Communities 2026-01-07
07 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government’s policies have resulted in rising taxes, record closures of agriculture businesses, shops, pubs, and restaurants, falling levels of business investment, changes to funding for rural ar...
Code of Conduct and Modernisation Committee
25 July 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Called the Leader of the House to move the first motion on code of conduct and guide to the rules, corrected a small error in paragraph 2(a) of chapter 4 of the guide to the rules. Also introduced ame...
HIV Compensation Scheme Bill - Lords amendment 35, Government amendments (b) and (c), Lords amendment 46, etc.
24 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The lead MP opened the debate by moving several amendments to address various aspects of the HIV Compensation Scheme Bill. He discussed Lords amendments including 35 and Government amendments such as ...
Tribunal and Inquiries
24 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The statutory instrument forms part of the Government’s preparations for implementing the Illegal Migration Act 2023 and delivers necessary tribunal procedurals. The Lord Chancellor is responsible for...
Coroners
24 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
This instrument is an important part of the Government’s ongoing support for coroner services in their continuing recovery from the covid-19 pandemic. It extends for a further two years the disapplica...
Port Talbot Steelworks
30 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Telegraph Media Group Ltd: Acquisition
30 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Ofsted’s Work with Schools
25 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Football (Amendment) Bill - Clause 1
23 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
5
PMQs Asked
59
Ministerial Questions Asked
123
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
2
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
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
+36% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+332% above average
This MP:
59
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-21% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2441% above average
This MP:
123
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-79% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
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 Brennan's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.