Kirsten Oswald
MP for East Renfrewshire
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
At last week's Prime Minister's questions, I highlighted the shocking rise in the number of teenagers trying vaping, and I asked the Prime Minister if he would take decisive action to stop vape advertising on football strips. He declined to do that. Since then, I have had an exchange with the Scottish chief medical officer, Professor Sir Gregor Smith, during a sitting of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill Committee, and he said: “Where I become very uncomfortable, and I am not supportive, is where the massive attraction of sports companies is used in a way that promotes behaviours that are known to be unsafe or unhealthy.” Can I ask the Prime Minister again: does he still think it is right that vape companies should sponsor football kits?
Context
The question is prompted by a rise in teenage vaping and the Scottish chief medical officer's concerns about football companies promoting unhealthy behaviors through sponsorship.
Rishi Sunak
I am glad the hon. Lady agrees with me and the Government that we should do more to tackle youth vaping, and that is why we are bringing forward measures in the new Bill to restrict the availability and appeal of vapes to children specifically, whether that is flavours or, indeed, marketing. As she knows, advertising of vapes is already heavily restricted by UK regulations, including a ban on advertising on television, radio and most places online. We have seen football take positive voluntary action in the past on issues such as this, but I will say to the hon. Lady that the Government will respond to her specific amendment in the usual way.
Assessment
Did not directly address whether vape companies should sponsor football kits; focused on existing restrictions and voluntary actions by football organizations.
Heavily Restricted By Uk Regulations
Session: PMQs
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More than one in five teenagers are vaping, with some experts describing it as an epidemic. New research suggests vapers could be at risk of toxic metals, harming brain or organ development. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to reduce smoking and vaping harms. Does permitting football strips to be sponsored by vaping companies send the wrong message to young people? Should vape companies be banned from advertising on sports strips?
Context
Over one in five teenagers are vaping, with new research suggesting toxic metal exposure risks. A bill aims to reduce smoking and vaping harms.
Rishi Sunak
Decisions about kit sponsorship rest with individual teams. The Government agrees it is important to tackle teenage vaping. The Bill will clamp down on marketing and availability of flavours, target point-of-sale purchases, and improve funding for trading standards to clamp down on illegal sales to children.
Assessment
Did not address whether sponsoring sports kits with vaping brands sends a negative message or should be banned from advertisements.
Session: PMQs
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Today the Prime Minister's Government will say disabled people have a duty to work from home or lose their benefits. Can you tell us how many of the 137,000 jobs on the Department for Work and Pensions 'Find a Job' website are roles that specify you can work from home?
Context
Disabled people are facing a policy that requires them to work from home or lose benefits, despite a lack of suitable jobs.
Rishi Sunak
It would not be right to pre-empt the Chancellor's autumn statement. However, we have closed the disability employment gap and increased the number of employers who are now disability confident. We also support those most vulnerable with cost of living payments this year including £150 for all on means-tested disability benefits.
Assessment
Number of jobs on DWP 'Find a Job' website that specify working from home
Under Review
Supporting Disabled Individuals In Other Ways
Session: PMQs
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If the Prime Minister wants to protect the economy and SMEs, why not scrap the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill?
Context
The Regulatory Policy Committee stated that the Retained EU Law Bill is not fit for purpose, and businesses face economic damage under this agenda.
Rishi Sunak
We will take advantage of our freedoms to drive growth in sectors like life sciences, reduce data burdens on SMEs, and ensure financial services prosperity.
Assessment
The specific ask about scrapping the Bill was completely avoided
Session: PMQs
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What we have heard from the Prime Minister today is, in essence, that no matter how Scotland votes, Westminster will decide, but democracy demands differently. The late Canon Kenyon Wright said: 'What if that other voice we all know so well responds by saying, 'We say no, and we are the state'? Well we say yes—and we are the people.' It is the people in Scotland who have to be heard. This place cannot stand in the way of democracy. If this Prime Minister with no mandate thinks it can, is he seriously telling us that this is a voluntary Union of equals?
Context
A Scottish independence referendum is proposed, raising questions about the balance of power between Scotland and Westminster. The question highlights the importance of hearing from the people in Scotland regarding their future.
Rishi Sunak (Prime Minister)
We are focused not on the SNP but on the people of Scotland; that is who we are delivering for. I am happy to meet the First Minister, as I continue to do, to deliver for the people of Scotland, including in the hon. Lady's constituency through the growth deal, and also by moving civil service jobs, creating freeports and providing extra funding for public services. This is a Government who will deliver for the people of Scotland, and we will do it constructively and collaboratively.
Assessment
the specific recognition of Scottish independence referendum and democratic process
Focused Not On The Snp But On The People Of Scotland
Session: PMQs
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If the Government cannot even say sorry for the mess that they have made, what hope do we have of them fixing it? Will the right hon. Gentleman's Government join the fight against child poverty tomorrow and follow the lead of the Scottish Government by matching the Scottish child payment?
Context
Tories are imposing austerity measures with their Budget, while Scottish child payment increased to £25 a week helping 400,000 children.
Dominic Raab
The hon. Lady will know that we are facing challenges that are faced all around the world, because of covid and the war in Ukraine. We have seen rising inflation in Germany, the eurozone and the US. The reality is that this Prime Minister and this Chancellor have a plan—more detail will be set out in the autumn statement—but of course, the UK Government will continue to work collaboratively with the Scottish Government to safeguard and protect the most vulnerable right across the United Kingdom.
Assessment
Did not commit to matching the Scottish child payment.
The Hon. Lady Will Know That We Are Facing Challenges That Are Faced All Around The World
Session: PMQs
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Yesterday, the Prime Minister was asked six different times to apologise for the disaster of the Tory mini-Budget and the financial crisis it caused. Will the Deputy Prime Minister stand up today and do what his boss would not? Will he say sorry?
Context
Prime Minister was asked six times to apologise for the financial crisis caused by the mini-Budget but refused. People are waking up to the news of worst inflation in 41 years.
Dominic Raab
May I thank the hon. Lady for what she said about both Poland and the importance of our solidarity with the international community against the appalling illegal invasion by Russia of Ukraine? Inflation is clearly a problem. We have a plan to grip inflation, to balance the books and to drive economic growth.
Assessment
Did not apologize for the mini-budget crisis or say sorry.
May I Thank The Hon. Lady For What She Said About Both Poland
Session: PMQs
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Yesterday I met the Citizens Advice Bureau who warned of a 'cost-of-living tsunami' affecting families. People are choosing between heating their homes or feeding their families due to government policies. Can you explain why the Government refuses to introduce an emergency energy payment?
Context
Citizens Advice Bureau in East Renfrewshire warned of a cost-of-living crisis due to universal credit cuts and rising household bills.
Dominic Raab
The price cap will save £50 million households up to £100 annually. Full-time workers are £4,000 per year better off due to the national living wage. We should come together and stop scaremongering.
Assessment
Refused to address refusal of emergency energy payments directly
We Need To Work Together
Stop Scaremongering
Session: PMQs
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Across Scotland and the UK, millions of families are seeing their incomes slashed by this Tory Government, with a toxic combination of Tory cuts, tax rises and the growing cost of Brexit. The Prime Minister promised that he would make energy bills more than £60 per household cheaper after Brexit. Instead, they could skyrocket by £550 at the worst possible time. The UK Government are slashing universal credit by £1,040, furlough is ending prematurely and a Tory tax hike will leave the majority of families hundreds of pounds worse off next year. Let us be clear: this is a Tory cost of living crisis, and yet again lower and middle-income families will suffer the most. Does the Deputy Prime Minister agree that it is time to scrap Tory cuts to universal credit and to introduce an emergency energy payment for lower-income families, so that no one has to choose between heating and eating this winter?
Context
Millions of families are seeing their incomes slashed by the Tory Government due to cuts, tax rises, and Brexit costs.
Dominic Raab
May I say to the hon. Lady that many of those issues are devolved to Scotland? The energy price cap will save 15 million households up to £100 each year. We are also taking targeted measures to extend the warm home discount; that will be £150 knocked off the bills of 780,000 homes.
Assessment
The agreement on scrapping cuts to universal credit and introducing emergency energy payments
Issues Are Devolved To Scotland
Session: PMQs
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Simply put, the trade deal means undercutting our farmers and short-changing consumers. The RSPCA has said that the deal 'will start a race to the bottom and the losers will be billions of farmed animals and UK farmers.' Does the Prime Minister accept these concerns from the experts at the RSPCA?
Context
The RSPCA warned that the Prime Minister's trade deal with Australia will start a race to the bottom in terms of animal welfare standards, affecting billions of farmed animals and UK farmers negatively.
Boris Johnson
I really think that these constant attacks on Australia, its standards and its animal welfare standards will be very much resented by the people of Australia, and will not be recognised. Australia is marked five out of five for animal welfare by the World Organisation for Animal Health performance of veterinary services evaluation team. This deal incorporates high animal welfare standards as part of the package that Australia has agreed.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not directly address the specific concerns raised by the RSPCA about setting animal welfare standards back.
Attacking Australia'S Standards
Session: PMQs
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The government's new Turing project does not match EU levels of support for students. Why proceed with this when Scottish MP Andrew Bowie told the BBC that young people will not benefit from Brexit? Will you reconsider your position?
Context
The Prime Minister announced an Erasmus replacement without consultation with devolved Governments, offering lower living and travel support.
Boris Johnson
I think students should choose Turing because it is fantastic and reaches out across the whole country. The SNP fails Scotland in education, crime, and economy.
Assessment
Reconsideration of funding levels or rejoining Erasmus
Criticized Opposition
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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The government's 1% rise in nurses' pay is a real-terms cut given inflation. They can afford significant pay rises for others but not nurses. Why proceed with these cuts? If determined to do so, will he put it to a vote?
Context
MP expressed concerns about the Prime Minister's decision to cut nurse pay, citing that Conservative MPs have criticized this policy.
Boris Johnson
The public know we have increased starting pay for nurses by 12.8% over three years and given them £5,000 bursary support. The Government are investing heavily in the NHS and increasing its workforce.
Assessment
Vote on nurse pay cuts
Highlighted Investment
Session: PMQs
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As manufacturing group Make UK describes the impending situation as a 'jobs bloodbath' due to the end of the furlough scheme, what measures will be taken to support strategic sectors and prevent unemployment from reaching 1980s levels?
Context
The Chancellor is ending the furlough scheme, which will result in significant job losses and economic downturn.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Acknowledging the economic impact of ending furlough, Boris Johnson outlined various measures including a job retention scheme and bonus for employers keeping on workers. He also mentioned £2 billion kick-starter fund and VAT cut.
Session: PMQs
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Oswald calls for renewed focus on researching childhood brain stem tumours and increasing awareness to prevent similar heartbreak in future families facing terminal diagnoses like Daniel's.
Context
Daniel Caplan, a 17-year-old constituent of Kirsten Oswald's, has been diagnosed with a diffuse midline glioma.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Johnson agrees to sympathise with Daniel Caplan and his family, promising to assist in making representations to the Department of Health regarding childhood brain stem cancers.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Minister confirm whether an equality impact assessment has been carried out on the proposed welfare reforms, and if so, can we expect it to be made public?
Context
The United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities found that the UK Government failed to take all appropriate measures to address violations of human rights for disabled people.
Mims Davies
I will write to the hon. Lady on that question. We are committed to ensuring that the UK is one of the best places to live and work as a disabled person, listening to disabled people, stopping scaremongering, and understanding their needs.
Session: Welfare Reform Disabled People
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I thank the Minister for her answer, but two months ago the Secretary of State announced that he would pull funding from the Inter Faith Network, which is the largest interfaith charity on these islands. It will close next week, after 40 years. It is an astonishing decision by the UK Government to close Britain's main forum for Jewish-Muslim dialogue now. The Secretary of State could still reverse that very poor decision, but that would have to happen this week. What are the chances of that?
Context
Two months ago, the Secretary of State announced that he would withdraw funding from the Inter Faith Network, a prominent interfaith charity. The charity will close next week after 40 years and is viewed as an important forum for Jewish-Muslim dialogue.
Felicity Buchan
Let me explain what occurred. The closure of the Inter Faith Network is a matter for the Inter Faith Network, as an independent charity; it is not a matter for Government. We have always made it very clear to all charities that receive Government funding that they need to have sustainable sources of other funding. In my response to the urgent question about a month ago, I made clear the reasons for the closure. To repeat, the decision to withdraw the funding was taken because of the appointment of a member of the Muslim Council of Britain as a trustee. Governments of various different hues have decided that they will not deal with the Muslim Council of Britain.
Session: Interfaith Dialogue
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What steps his Department is taking to help promote interfaith dialogue?
Context
The question arises from efforts to promote interfaith relations and the role of government in supporting these initiatives.
Felicity Buchan
This Government are extremely supportive of efforts to bring together people of different faiths and beliefs. The faith Minister meets regularly with faith leaders to encourage these efforts, and the Department has funded a range of partners, including Near Neighbours and Strengthening Faith Institutions, to organise local level interfaith dialogue.
Session: Interfaith Dialogue
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In view of numerous cases of former professional footballers developing dementia, what steps is the Department taking to ensure sports governing bodies have adequate guidance to protect players' health?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the safety of professional players, especially in light of former players suffering from dementia.
Stuart Andrew
The Government has developed concussion guidelines for grassroots and professional sports, convened a research group on sports-related concussions, and an innovation panel focusing on practical solutions. Evaluation of these initiatives is ongoing.
Session: Footballers Risk of Dementia
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In recent months there has been a 335% increase in Islamophobic hate cases. Despite this and despite having had the International Day to Combat Islamophobia recently, the UK Government have not convened the anti-Muslim hatred working group in more than four years. With the next anti-Muslim hatred adviser quitting over extremist threats, we need concrete answers. When will the Government take tackling Islamophobia seriously?
Context
There has been a significant increase in Islamophobic hate cases, with the anti-Muslim hatred working group not convened since March 2020.
Felicity Buchan
On behalf of the Government, I pass on my condolences. We have made it incredibly clear that the Government are completely committed to tackling anti-Muslim hatred. We have upped the amount of money going towards the protection of mosques and Muslim faith schools. We are about to appoint a new anti-Muslim hatred adviser.
Session: Faith-based Discrimination and Harassment
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Goldman Sachs has found that Brexit Britain has significantly underperformed compared with other advanced economies; the result is that UK GDP is 5% lower than it would have been had we not left the European Union. Does the Secretary of State appreciate that best way to grow the economy, boost business confidence and reduce trade barriers is to rejoin the EU?
Context
The MP referenced a Goldman Sachs report stating that UK GDP is 5% lower than it would have been without Brexit. She highlighted the underperformance compared to other advanced economies.
Kemi Badenoch (Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport)
I recommend to the hon. Lady the report produced by my Department on 31 January about the benefits of Brexit. It explains exactly what is happening with the UK economy. Claiming that GDP would have been 5% higher when we are outperforming our G7 partners is simply not credible. She wants to take us back to square one, but that is exactly the reason why people need to stick with the Conservative plan.
Session: Topical Questions
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In December, the British Chambers of Commerce found that a staggering 97% of surveyed businesses continued to face difficulties using the trade and co-operation agreement. Despite the TCA being introduced over three years ago, businesses are still struggling to deal with the added headache that the regulations have created. How many years is it anticipated that these issues will take to resolve?
Context
A survey found that 97% of businesses continued to face difficulties with the TCA three years after its introduction.
Kemi Badenoch
I thank the hon. Lady for her question. Many of the issues that businesses have been raising with us are specific not to the TCA but to member countries. That is why Ministers and I, along with officials, go to all these countries, and we have removed many of the market access barriers, which are not specific to the TCA.
Session: EU Withdrawal Impact on Businesses
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Last week, the Scottish Government announced £24.5 million of public investment in a new cable factory, which will attract a further £350 million of inward investment. Does the Secretary of State agree that the best way to increase private investment is for the Government to invest at least £28 billion annually?
Context
The Scottish Government has announced a £24.5 million public investment in a new cable factory, attracting further private investment.
Claire Coutinho
Our record on net zero investment is strong; CBI reported that UK's net zero sectors grew by 9% last year. Plans for further investment include grid connections, supply chain support through the Gigafund, and capital allowance reform.
Session: Green Technologies Private Investment
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Will the Secretary of State commit to working with the Secretary of State for Business and Trade and set out a timetable for updating the House on how much the Post Office took and what it did with the money?
Context
The current chief executive of the Post Office stated in evidence that we still do not know the full scope of money overclaimed through Horizon, causing significant stress and financial loss to sub-postmasters.
Alex Chalk
£160 million has already been paid out in compensation across three schemes. The Department for Business and Trade is leading on this matter, and they are committed to addressing these issues promptly.
Session: Horizon System Exoneration of Sub-postmasters
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What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to exonerate sub-postmasters who were convicted due to errors in the Post Office Horizon system?
Context
The question arises from the Post Office's flawed IT system, Horizon, which has led to wrongful convictions of sub-postmasters.
Alex Chalk
In September 2020, a public inquiry was set up into the failings associated with the Post Office Horizon IT system and it is expected to report back later this year. Over £160 million has already been paid out in compensation across three schemes. The Prime Minister will bring forward legislation to quash the relevant convictions, details of which will be announced shortly by the Department for Business and Trade.
Session: Horizon System Exoneration of Sub-postmasters
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One in three requests for flexible working were denied by employers. What steps are the UK Government taking to give real support to workers with caring responsibilities and ensure that flexible working is a day-one right by default?
Context
The question arises from the TUC's report that one in three requests for flexible working are denied by employers.
Maria Caulfield
I am aware of the difficulties involved as I hold down a full-time job while being a carer. The Government has passed legislation allowing flexible working from day one and introduced 18 weeks of leave entitlement for parents, with Carer's Leave Regulations coming into force on 6 April.
Session: Caring Responsibilities and Work
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Will the Chancellor look at cutting VAT to 10% to support local economies?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the tax burden on small businesses, particularly VAT affecting business investment.
Jeremy Hunt
I will always look at anything that helps businesses grow, but it is slightly incongruous to argue for lower taxes when the SNP has given Scotland the highest taxes in the UK.
Session: Business Investment Fiscal Measures
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The renewables sector provides the greatest job growth for Scotland's energy sector, with the number of jobs in the renewables sector in Scotland growing by more than 50% in 2021. The future of Scotland's job security, energy and economy lies with renewables. When will the UK Government finally match support for the Scottish Government's £500 million just transition fund?
Context
The number of jobs in the renewables sector in Scotland has grown by more than 50% in 2021, highlighting the potential for job growth and economic stability through renewables.
John Lamont
The SNP's position on energy, particularly in relation to oil and gas, is frankly all over the place. We do not know where the First Minister of Scotland stands on this. He described developing Rosebank as “the wrong decision”, but now seems to think that oil reserves can fund capital investment in an independent Scotland. We fully recognise the importance of the energy sector to Scotland. That includes oil and gas and renewables. I will continue to work with all parts of the energy sector to develop that for the Scottish economy.
Session: Oil and Gas Industry
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What steps are being taken now to offer a sustainable pay deal for public sector workers in the absence of a functioning Stormont?
Context
Earnings in Northern Ireland fell by 1.8% month-on-month, while UK earnings rose by 1.2%. Earnings difference is the biggest on record.
Steven Baker
A substantial sum is available for parties in the package, and the Government are seized of the need to ensure that public sector workers have a pay rise. However, decisions on this matter must be taken by the devolved Government in Northern Ireland.
Session: Cost of Living
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What recent discussions has he had with the Administration in Northern Ireland on the effect of cost of living increases?
Context
Recent discussions between the government and Northern Ireland's Administration about the cost of living crisis.
Steven Baker
The Government have taken decisive action to help tackle increases in the cost of living, including support for vulnerable households through a range of measures such as £900 cost of living payments. Emphasis is placed on the need for a functioning Executive in Northern Ireland.
Session: Cost of Living
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Given that performers' intellectual property is not currently regulated under the 1988 act in relation to AI technology, when will the Government take action to protect artists and creatives from such exploitation?
Context
Performers' images, voices, or likenesses are being reproduced by others using AI without consent, despite lacking regulation under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.
Lucy Frazer
The UK has world-leading copyright protections. As we move into the era of generative AI, we aim to continue protecting creative work and are working closely with industry and IPO for updates.
Session: Topical Questions
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The risk of perpetuating inequality through sole reliance on automated decision making is well-recognised both in recruitment and for disabled people accessing employment, as well as in other contexts such as immigration and welfare benefits. However, the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill aims to liberalise AI use while reducing appeal rights. Does the Minister understand this risk? What specific plan does she have to mitigate risks like encoded bias?
Context
Concerns exist about the potential liberalisation of AI use in decision-making processes under the UK Government's Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, which may reduce appeal rights for individuals facing decisions made by automated systems.
Saqib Bhatti
I do not recognise the hon. Member's assessment, but let me say this: context matters. The risks of bias will vary depending on the specific way in which AI is used. That is why we are letting the regulators describe and illustrate what fairness means within their sectors, because they will be able to apply greater context to their discussions. The risk of discrimination should be assessed in context, and guidance should be issued that is specific to the sector. That is why we are preparing and publishing guidance to support the regulators. We will then encourage and support them to develop joint guidance. We will be working with the Equality and Human Rights Commission, the Information Commissioner's Office and the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate.
Session: Artificial Intelligence Biases Protected Characteristics
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Will the Secretary of State raise with her Cabinet colleagues the Trussell Trust joint campaign with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation calling for an essentials guarantee in universal credit to ensure that the basic rate at least covers life's essentials so as to ensure that people can afford essentials such as food and heating?
Context
The MP discussed the Trussell Trust's research showing one in seven people facing hunger due to insufficient funds, and the need for an essentials guarantee.
Victoria Atkins
Of course, conversations continue between Ministers across Government in terms of helping not just with health inequalities but with inequality of opportunity... We know that getting people into work can have enormous benefits, not just financially but, importantly, for their wellbeing. The idea behind the back to work plan is that we do it by working with people to draw out their full potential and help them to lead healthy lives.
Session: Health Inequalities
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Why is it considered acceptable to punish the people of Northern Ireland for political impasse when there have been significant cuts and funding withholdings?
Context
The MP noted recent analysis showing that Northern Ireland's budget has been cut by £2.3 billion in real terms over the past three years, with additional withheld funds causing further budget constraints.
Steven Baker
The Government does not view it as punishment but acknowledges that difficult decisions must be taken to manage finances. The budget situation is challenging for all devolved nations, and steps are being taken to assist with balancing books in Northern Ireland.
Session: Public Services Budgetary Constraints
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What steps are being taken to ensure the new guidance under the Online Safety Act 2023 is enforced effectively?
Context
The Open University found that seven in ten believe the current legislation is not effective in tackling online violence against women.
Laura Farris
The Online Safety Act places a statutory obligation on Ofcom to publish guidance summarising measures online services need to take to reduce risk of violence against women. It also obligates social media providers to prevent child exposure to harmful content through age verification exercises.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Legislation
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In 2022, 11.2% of British Army recruits were women; that is down from 12.6% in 2020. In 2021, 9% of recruits were from ethnic minority backgrounds, down from 11.7% in 2020. What is the Secretary of State doing to urgently remedy this reduction in diversity?
Context
The proportion of female recruits in the British Army decreased from 12.6% in 2020 to 11.2% in 2022, and ethnic minority representation dropped from 11.7% in 2020 to 9% in 2021.
Grant Shapps
I want to make it clear that everyone within the civil service and UK armed forces should feel represented. The numbers for female representation between last year and this year are 10.4%, rising to 11.5%. Civilian representation at SCS level is 45%. We need a far more balanced armed forces in the future.
Session: Topical Questions
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What conversations have taken place between Cabinet colleagues on removing the onus on employees to request flexible working and instead ensuring that that is provided as a day one right, by default?
Context
A significant number of women in the UK have quit their jobs due to menopause symptoms. Flexible work can help manage these symptoms and reduce economic inactivity.
Mel Stride
The hon. Lady's question is best directed to the Department for Business and Trade rather than DWP, as it relates to employment legislation and regulation. However, I am pleased to tell her that we have our 50PLUS champions, work coaches in our jobcentres, the Midlife MOT and many other measures that are there to help exactly the people she describes.
Session: Menopause Workplace Support
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Scotland has had a far more progressive approach to encouraging the switch to electric vehicles with incentives including interest-free loans for electric vehicles, enhanced home-charger grants and a far more comprehensive charging network with twice as many rapid chargers per head as England. The Scottish Government's Cabinet Secretary for net zero has described the delay on banning petrol and diesel car sales as an 'unforgiveable betrayal of current and future generations', putting the UK on the 'wrong side of history' on climate change. She is right, isn't she?
Context
Scotland has more progressive electric vehicle incentives compared to England, including interest-free loans and enhanced home-charger grants.
Jesse Norman
I do not think that, for the reasons we have described, there is anything to complain about in relation to the progress we are making across England. Charge point roll-out remains very rapid—43% in the last 12 months —and there are 49,000 public charge points at the moment and 400,000 private and business ones, and new regulations and a new mandate have just been laid.
Session: Topical Questions
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Despite acknowledging the value of measuring the ethnicity pay gap, the UK Government will not legislate for mandatory reporting. Since employment law is a reserved matter, will the Minister urge her Government to do the right thing and mandate ethnicity pay gap reporting, or urge the devolution of employment law to Scotland?
Context
The UK Government has published guidance on measuring the ethnicity pay gap but does not plan to mandate such reporting. The MP asks whether the Government will legislate or devolve employment law.
Kemi Badenoch
Absolutely not. This is something that we will not be devolving and it absolutely should not be mandatory. Ethnicity pay gaps cannot be measured in the same way as gender pay gaps. We have published guidance for those employers who want to do this, but it would be absolutely wrong to mandate.
Session: Pay Inequalities
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What recent assessment has the Minister made on the equalities impact of AI use in recruitment and employment? Has this been discussed with Cabinet colleagues?
Context
Studies indicate that new technologies such as artificial intelligence can perpetuate biases across various demographic factors.
Kemi Badenoch
I raised concerns about AI bias with Cabinet colleagues recently, including a meeting with the Government chief scientific officer. We are looking at datasets and large language models used by AI but note that equality impact assessments apply mainly to public sector duties.
Session: Gender and Racial Inequality in the Workplace
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I am sure that the Secretary of State shares my concern that school nurses report increasing rates of children presenting with health issues resulting from poor nutrition. In Scotland, the SNP Government have rolled out universal free school meals for all pupils in primary years 1 to 5 and special schools, and the expansion of the programme continues. What discussion has the Secretary of State had with Cabinet colleagues about following Scotland's lead and expanding free school meal provision in England to improve children's health and wellbeing?
Context
In Scotland, the SNP Government have rolled out universal free school meals for pupils from primary years 1 to 5 and special schools. There is concern about rising health issues among children due to poor nutrition.
Steve Barclay
Of course we have regular discussions, not just with Cabinet colleagues, but with our counterparts across the UK. I had a meeting just yesterday with Health Ministers, including my counterpart in Scotland, on the shared challenges.
Session: Topical Questions
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What specific conversations has the Secretary of State had with Cabinet colleagues and the retail sector on the high costs of food in supermarkets?
Context
A study indicates that around 753,000 Welsh people faced hunger in mid-2022, with an 85% increase in emergency food parcel distributions by Trussell Trust foodbanks compared to five years ago.
David Davies
Obviously, all Cabinet colleagues are absolutely committed to making sure that we put our resources towards the least well off. That is why pensions, benefits and the minimum wage have all gone up in line with inflation, and it is why there have been extra payments of £900 to people on benefits, £300 to pensioners, and £150 to households with disabilities.
Session: Cost of Living Support
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What steps are being taken to ensure that voters are not disenfranchised by the introduction of voter ID requirements?
Context
A former Cabinet Minister claimed that new voter ID rules could disenfranchise voters, citing examples of people being turned away due to lack of proper identification.
Cat Smith
The introduction of voter ID was debated and passed by Parliament. The Electoral Commission supports electoral administrators; policy decisions are for the Government.
Session: Voter ID
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What engagement has the FCDO had with the Scottish Government on this, and will the Minister pledge to work with them?
Context
Scotland's First Minister met with Jagtar's brother and pledged to do everything possible to bring him home. The question seeks engagement details between the UK government and Scottish government.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
I thank the hon. Lady for demonstrating the SNP's support for the UK government's discussions with the family and raising concerns with India, encouraging further conversations and support from the SNP.
Session: Jagtar Singh Johal
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What recent steps has the Department taken to secure the release of Jagtar Singh Johal?
Context
The question follows multiple failed attempts and concerns over the case of Jagtar Singh Johal detained in India, with reports of torture and lack of fair trial rights.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
We remain committed to doing what we can to assist Mr Johal. We have raised concerns about his case with the Government of India on over 100 occasions, including his allegations of torture and his right to a fair trial. The case was most recently raised by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon with Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar.
Session: Jagtar Singh Johal
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The UK Government recently published statistics showing a 35% gender pension gap in private pensions, and recent research by the TUC suggests that more than one in 10 women are in jobs where their employers did not have to enter them into a workplace pension compared with fewer than one in 20 men. According to calculations from the Prospect union, the income gap between men and women in retirement is therefore now 40.5%, which is more than twice the level of the gender pay gap. What action is the Department taking with Cabinet colleagues to close that shameful gap?
Context
Recent statistics show a 35% gender pension gap in private pensions, with more than one in ten women being in jobs where their employers did not have to enter them into a workplace pension compared with fewer than one in twenty men. This results in an income gap of 40.5% for retired women.
Mims Davies
I do understand the hon. Lady's point. We remain committed to our ambition to remove the lower earnings limit, as we set out in 2017. That will proportionately benefit the lowest earners the most, including women working part-time.
Session: Topical Questions
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In recent years, Scotland has grown a third of all the UK's soft fruits. However, exports have been quashed because of Brexit, with UK fruit exports falling by more than half, from £248.5 million in the year ending March 2021 to £113.8 million in the year ending March 2023. Given that Scottish food perishables travel further to Dover and are more sensitive to delays among the sanitary and phytosanitary arrangements, what steps is the Secretary of State taking to remove the Brexit barriers to trade that her Government have imposed on Scottish businesses?
Context
Scotland has grown a third of all the UK's soft fruits, but Brexit led to a significant drop in fruit exports. The MP is concerned about the impact on sensitive perishable goods and seeks steps to remove barriers.
Therese Coffey
It is the European Union that has put certain checks in place in its export arrangements. We have had a pretty open door since we left the European Union, which is why we are implementing the target operating model to ensure that we introduce further controls, mindful of the biosecurity risks that we face.
Session: Fresh Food and Drinks Duty and Customs
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The Bill restricts Scotland's Lord Advocate's reference and intervention powers to devolved Scottish legislation. However, there is no corresponding restriction on English law officers to limit them to reserved matters. Does the Minister feel it is right that English law officers would be able to refer Scottish legislation to the courts in that manner, or does he agree with the Law Society of Scotland that that should be left to Scottish law officers?
Context
The Bill restricts Scotland's Lord Advocate's reference powers but does not impose the same restriction on English law officers.
Mike Freer
I will have to look carefully at the references that the hon. Lady has made, but, as far as I am aware, the items of retained EU law in the Ministry of Justice's remit that are intended to be revoked under the new schedule are all spent measures, and there will be no impact on Scotland.
Session: Retained EU Law Acts of the Scottish Parliament
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Whether he has had recent discussions with the Scottish Government on the potential effect of provisions in the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill on EU law incorporated in Acts of the Scottish Parliament.
Context
Discussions with the Scottish Government on potential effects of provisions in the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill.
Mike Freer
The Ministry of Justice has been working closely with the Scottish Government and other devolved Administrations to consider the implications of the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill for retained EU law in justice policy areas across the UK. My officials have regular discussions with their devolved Administration counterparts to ensure that proposals to revoke or reform retained EU law are carefully considered to avoid any unintended divergence across the UK.
Session: Retained EU Law Acts of the Scottish Parliament
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How grateful does the Minister feel that the Leader of the Opposition has dropped his and his party's principles and are supporting this costly Brexit?
Context
The MP discusses recent negative impacts of Brexit on the UK's technology sector, including a chip company opting to float stock only in the US.
Victoria Atkins
Crikey, I am going to leave it to the Leader of the Opposition to flip-flop his way through that particular policy. What I can tell the hon. Lady is that we are the best place in Europe to invest in tech. We are only the third economy in the world with a $1 trillion tech sector; we are ranked as the world's fourth most innovative economy; and we have created more unicorns than France and Germany combined.
Session: Withdrawal from the EU Economic Impact
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The commission has noted that only around 50,000 individuals have obtained the required free ID certificate compared to an estimated 2 million without appropriate identification. Given this discrepancy and the known disparities in enfranchisement between different demographic groups, what steps will be taken by the Electoral Commission to ensure all people can participate in elections?
Context
The SNP opposes the requirement for voter ID which is set to take effect in England, Wales, and Scotland. Only about 50,000 people have applied for free ID certificates while approximately 2 million voters lack necessary documents.
Cat Smith
The commission is working with key groups identified as needing additional support, such as the over-85s, people with disabilities, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, homeless individuals, trans and non-binary people, and anonymous voters. However, no specific measures to ensure full participation of disenfranchised populations were detailed.
Session: Voter ID
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I am concerned that the voter ID requirement is set to take effect in England ahead of local and national elections. Given the disparity between those who have applied for free ID certificates and the estimated number lacking such documents, what measures will the Electoral Commission implement to ensure full enfranchisement?
Context
The SNP opposes voter ID requirement introduced under the Elections Act 2022. Only about 50,000 people have applied for free ID certificates while approximately 2 million voters lack necessary ID.
Cat Smith
The commission continues to support voters and electoral administrators ahead of upcoming elections. It has increased public awareness activities from 22% to 76%, and will conduct detailed public survey work on take-up levels, particularly focusing on groups needing additional support such as the over-85s, people with disabilities, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, homeless individuals, trans and non-binary people.
Session: Voter ID
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Fawcett Society data shows UK falls short compared to Europe on mandatory actions for closing gender and ethnicity pay gaps. Why won't they require employers to set out equality action plans? If inaction continues, will employment law be devolved to Scotland?
Context
The Fawcett Society indicates that the UK lags behind other European countries in tackling ethnic pay gaps, with no mandatory reporting or action plans required.
Kemi Badenoch
As I have said in almost every discussion about equality, mandatory ethnicity reporting is not the appropriate tool. Ethnicity pay gap reporting cannot be compared to gender pay gap reporting due to its complexity and dependency on geography among other factors.
Session: Equitable Pay Women
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Can the Attorney General clarify what assessment she has made of the legality of the amendments to the Illegal Migration Bill? The questioner also asks if accepting such amendments could put the UK's place on the Council of Europe at risk, seeking specific legal and diplomatic consequences.
Context
The questioner seeks details on the legal assessment made by the Attorney General regarding amendments to the Illegal Migration Bill that might ignore rulings from the European Court of Human Rights.
Victoria Prentis
As I have said, I am not able to share my assessment, but perhaps it might be useful for the House to know when a section 19(1)(b) statement has previously been used. It was used in relation to the Communications Act 2003 by Tessa Jowell.
Session: Illegal Immigration Bill ECHR Compatibility
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What discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the compatibility of the Illegal Migration Bill with the convention relating to the status of refugees. The questioner seeks clarity on whether the Government's proposed bill aligns with international refugee protection standards and if legal advice indicates any conflicts or breaches.
Context
Discussions about the compatibility of the UK's Illegal Migration Bill with the convention relating to the status of refugees.
Victoria Prentis
By convention, where the law officers have been asked to provide advice, the contents of any such advice is not disclosed outside Government. That protects our ability as legal advisers to give the Government full and frank legal advice.
Session: Illegal Immigration Bill ECHR Compatibility
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Authorised Push Payment Fraud
01 March 2023
Responding: Victoria Atkins
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the significant rise in authorised push payment fraud losses, which totalled £583.2 million in 2021, a 38% increase from the previous year. Many cases of this type of fraud go unreported, making it likely that these figures underestimate the true extent of losses. The impact on victims is devastating, with 71% experiencing increased stress levels and 63% reporting harm to their mental health. My constituent's business was infiltrated by sophisticated fraudsters who sent emails impersonating legitimate businesses, causing clients to lose thousands of pounds through unauthorized transfers. I am concerned about the sophisticated nature of authorised push payment scams that target vulnerable individuals, professionals, and businesses. These scams often result in significant financial losses for victims, with only about half of stolen money being reimbursed under current voluntary codes, leading to many losing their life savings."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Government to ensure that victims of authorised push payment scams are fully reimbursed and that banks improve internal mechanisms for identifying fraudulent accounts. I also urge them to consider making reimbursement mandatory across all banking firms and to work with social media companies to address fraud on their platforms. The hon. Member asks the government to take urgent action on victim reimbursement through legislative means and ensure that banks honour past voluntary commitments made to previous victims of APP fraud.']
Disposable Vapes: Environmental Impact
29 November 2022
Main Concerns
["The environmental impact of disposable vapes is significant, with more than half being thrown in the bin and two disposed every second. The proliferation of these products has led to widespread littering, impacting parks, town centres, and beaches. The issue affects Scotland annually, with an estimated 13.6 million disposable vapes bought each year. Health concerns are also raised regarding young people's vulnerability to nicotine addiction and the potential move towards tobacco use."]
Specific Asks
['The UK Government should urgently address the environmental impact of disposable vapes by implementing clearer recycling guidance and reforming waste electrical and electronic equipment regulations to ensure proper disposal of these devices.']
Parental Leave and Pay
22 March 2022
Responding: Paul Scully
Main Concerns
['The UK has the second lowest payment rates for maternity leave among OECD countries, with less than a third of gross average earnings replaced by statutory maternity pay. The number of employed parents claiming maternity allowance dropped by 45% between 2016 and 2021 due to Conservative Government policy, affecting up to 85,000 parents. Self-employed individuals take minimal parental leave, and there are concerns about the lack of employment rights protection for various workers.']
Specific Asks
["The UK Government should address issues related to maternity allowance and statutory maternity pay in universal credit, extend redundancy protections for pregnant women and new mothers, introduce an employment Bill addressing workers' rights, increase maternity leave to one year with better pay provisions, enhance shared parental leave benefits, and support legislative progress on bereavement and miscarriage leave."]
Social Justice and Fairness Commission
21 July 2021
Responding: Will Quince
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the UK Government's undermining of devolution and their regressive decisions, such as allowing up to 3 million people to fall through pandemic support cracks, removing the £20 uplift in universal credit in September, and failing to bring forward an employment Bill. The commission also highlights issues like discriminatory welfare policies, a hostile immigration environment, and the lack of basic human rights under UK policy."]
Specific Asks
["I ask the Government to consider the recommendations from the Social Justice and Fairness Commission and to take action towards democratic renewal, citizen empowerment, values rooted in human rights and equality, and transformative policies that put people's wellbeing first."]
Redundancy Protection: Women and New Parents
28 April 2021
Responding: Paul Scully
Main Concerns
["Ms. Oswald is concerned about the lack of progress in extending redundancy protection for women and new parents due to employment law being reserved to Westminster. She highlighted that one in 20 new mothers are made redundant during pregnancy or maternity leave, or on their return to work, which demonstrates a disturbing level of disregard among employers for the needs of women and families. She also mentioned cases like Jessica's and Mandy's as examples of unfair treatment due to pregnancy."]
Specific Asks
["Ms. Oswald asks the Government to urgently implement legislation to extend redundancy protection throughout pregnancy and maternity leave, and for six months afterwards, similar to the ten-minute rule Bill introduced by the right hon. Member for Basingstoke. She also seeks the Government's plans to protect women and new parents in their employment during and post-pandemic."]
The Future of Work
19 November 2020
Main Concerns
['Ms Oswald is concerned about the impact of technological change and structural inequality on the quality of jobs and access to them. She highlights issues such as remote working disparities, mass unemployment affecting disadvantaged groups, and the need for conscious mitigation measures against economic impacts exacerbated by the pandemic. The MP also points out that previous Conservative Governments have left deep-rooted deprivation in many areas of the UK.']
Specific Asks
["Ms Oswald calls on the Government to redirect funding towards skills development promoting social mobility and to support changes such as a universal basic income to recognise and support individuals during transitions between jobs, firms, or sectors. She also asks for a commitment from the Minister regarding backing her colleague's Employment Bill, which aims to protect workers' rights."]
Disabled People on Benefits: EHRC Investigation
23 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Holocaust Memorial (Centre) Bill - New Clause 1
22 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Infected Blood Inquiry
23 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Electoral Commission Committee
18 April 2024
General Debate
Led by this MP
Asked whether the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission has had discussions with the Electoral Commission regarding the potential impact of disinformation on elections. She raised concerns a...
Smoking Reduction and Tobacco Control Bill - Clause 1
16 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the Bill, stating its purpose is to prevent future generations from starting smoking. Argues that the only product that kills two thirds of its long-term users if consumed as intended is tobacco...
Cass Review
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Women’s State Pension Age
25 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Cyber-security and UK Democracy
25 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
29 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves that the House considers the use of language in politics, especially regarding respectful language and its importance for a strong and inclusive democracy. Raises concerns about women's represen...
Angiolini Inquiry Report
29 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
14
PMQs Asked
119
Ministerial Questions Asked
128
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
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 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+282% above average
This MP:
14
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+788% above average
This MP:
119
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2534% above average
This MP:
128
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 (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Kirsten Oswald's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.