Kirsty Blackman
MP for Aberdeen North
SNP
7 May 2015 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Westminster's tax policy is holding back investment and affecting jobs in the oil and gas sector in Scotland. The Chancellor has committed to change. Will the Prime Minister confirm when the oil and gas price mechanism will be introduced to provide certainty for jobs, investment, and energy security?
Context
Westminster's tax policy is holding back investment and affecting jobs in the oil and gas sector in Scotland.
Keir Starmer
We want energy security and see new nuclear as part of that mix. We lost 70,000 jobs under the SNP and Conservatives in the last decade.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not confirm the timing of the mechanism.
Criticizing Opposition
Session: PMQs
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If the Prime Minister agrees that the Israeli Government starving children to death is monstrous, why does he think it is okay for the UK to continue to sell Israel the equipment for the fighter jets to drop bombs on those starving children?
Context
The UK continues to sell fighter jet parts to Israel despite concerns that these may be used in conflicts involving the Palestinian population.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
What we contribute into a pot is parts for fighter jets, and if we were to stop that, they could not be used by other countries in other conflicts, including those in which we are involved. The hon. Member does not know the detail at all. They are not sold directly. They go into a pot. If we were to stop that, they would not then be available to others around the world who desperately need them in the conflicts they are engaged in, and that is why we will not do it.
Assessment
Did not address ethical concerns raised about arms sales to Israel directly
Stressing Complexity
Downplaying Direct Involvement
Session: PMQs
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Veteran Anne Puckridge is in the Gallery, and I urge the Prime Minister to meet her to talk about her frozen pension. Yesterday, it was reported that Scottish Labour MPs are very “upset”. Apparently, that upset is caused by their Scottish leader's diktat that they now have to support the very winter fuel payment that they voted against in this place. As the Prime Minister comforts his upset MPs, will he remind them that the only people with the right to be upset are the 900,000 Scottish pensioners who were left in the cold by Labour's cuts?
Context
Veteran Anne Puckridge is in the Gallery, and she has a frozen pension. Scottish Labour MPs are reportedly upset about their leader's decision to support winter fuel payments.
Keir Starmer
I work very closely with Scottish Labour in a harmonious way. We ran a fantastic campaign earlier this year, which is why the hon. Lady is sitting on the Benches at the back, not the Benches at the front.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to meeting Anne Puckridge or discussing her frozen pension.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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In the last 13 years, the six oil and gas licensing rounds by the Tories have produced 16 days-worth of oil and gas for the UK. Will the Prime Minister explain how doubling the number of licensing rounds will have any impact on insanely high energy bills? If he cared about energy security, jobs or the environment, he would surely be better matching the Scottish Government's £500 million investment in a just transition and providing a £400 rebate to bill payers.
Context
The questioner highlights that in the past 13 years, six oil and gas licensing rounds produced only a small amount of oil and gas. The Scottish Government has invested £500 million in energy transition.
Rishi Sunak
It is not £500 million; we are investing tens of billions of pounds in energy transition, not least for things such as carbon capture and storage. In order to have energy security, it is right to exploit the resources that we have here at home. Even the independent Climate Change Committee projects that we will still need oil and gas as we make the transition.
Assessment
Did not directly address how doubling licensing rounds would impact high energy bills or whether a £400 rebate to bill payers is planned
Session: PMQs
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As the Prime Minister reaches 100 days in office this week, having pledged a Government marked by integrity, what are his thoughts on the UK being one of only five countries to have seen a decrease in Transparency International's corruption index score since last year?
Context
Transparency International recently released its latest corruption perceptions index, revealing the UK among five countries experiencing a decline in scores.
Rishi Sunak
In fact, there is widespread recognition and support for the UK's approach to transparency and tackling corruption. Indeed, the most recent report from the Financial Action Task Force commended the UK for the steps it had taken.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not directly address the specific question about the decline in Transparency International's corruption index score but instead referred to other sources of support.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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People are suffering due to poor policies by the UK Tory Government. The economy has crashed, millions fear winter cold, and divisions are stoked over striking workers instead of negotiating fair deals. Why does this Prime Minister only rely on questionable PPE suppliers in the House of Lords, bankers, and former PMs getting taxpayer-funded handouts for partying through covid?
Context
Criticism of the UK Conservative government's economic policies, high winter heating costs, and lack of fair pay negotiations.
Rishi Sunak
The only people stoking division in our United Kingdom are the Scottish National party.
Assessment
Changed subject entirely without addressing specific concerns raised about policies and support for questionable suppliers
Session: PMQs
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The response from the US President to the death of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement has been horrendous. Can the Prime Minister confirm to me if he still believes that Trump has “many, many good qualities”, and if so, what are they?
Context
The US President, Donald Trump, has received criticism for his response to the death of George Floyd.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
I renew what I have said many times; it is important for the House to hear it again. Yes, black lives matter, and yes, the death of George Floyd was absolutely appalling. As for the qualities of Mr Trump, let me say that, among many other things, he is President of the United States, which is our most important ally in the world today. Whatever people may say about it—whatever those on the left may say about it—the United States is a bastion of peace and freedom and has been for most of my lifetime.
Session: PMQs
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Twenty-five per cent of the manufacturing output of the east midlands is in the food and drink sector, but that sector feels left behind in the clean energy transition without support from Government programmes, such as the British industrial competitiveness scheme. What support can the Minister give to the food and drink sector to ensure that it continues to prosper in the east midlands and to create jobs in constituencies such as mine?
Context
The MP highlighted that the food and drink sector feels left behind in the clean energy transition without support from Government programmes, citing the manufacturing output of the east midlands.
Chris McDonald
The Government and I recognise the importance of the food and drink sector. My hon. Friend is right to point out that the sector is not included in the British industrial competitiveness scheme, but our boiler upgrade scheme does apply to these industries. One thing that I am doing is looking at the role of third-party intermediaries. The Department intends to provide a regulatory role for Ofgem, and subject to parliamentary time, we should be bringing forward measures that will benefit the food and drink industry.
Session: Clean Energy Transition Supporting People in Work
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The wage gap between the Isle of Wight and the rest of the UK—I know that Conservative Members love the Isle of Wight, but they did nothing about it when they were in power. The wage gap between the Isle of Wight and the rest of the UK leaves full-time island employees about £5,500 a year worse off in comparison with the national average, while female islanders are about £8,000 worse off. Will the Minister work with Cabinet colleagues as a matter of urgency to address the island wage gap, particularly for women, and does she agree that closing that gap is good for women, good for communities and good for growth?
Context
The wage gap between the Isle of Wight and the rest of the UK leaves full-time island employees £5,500 a year worse off in comparison with the national average, while female islanders are £8,000 worse off.
Seema Malhotra
I firmly agree that women's equality and economic growth go hand in hand. That is why I was pleased to join the Minister for Women and Equalities in formally launching the action plans last week, so that large employers will be encouraged to set out the steps that they are taking to narrow their gender pay gap. This will ensure that women are able to thrive in the workplace across the country, including on the Isle of Wight.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Chancellor recognise the ongoing struggle of families and put in an emergency package of measures?
Context
Families are still struggling despite lower inflation and higher fuel prices.
Rachel Reeves
In April, people will get £150 off their energy bills and prescription charges in England will be frozen as will rail fares. We are getting rid of the two-child benefit cap, which will lift 450,000 children out of poverty. The most important thing we can do for the price of petrol, diesel and heating oil is de-escalate the conflict in the middle east and get vessels moving again through the strait of Hormuz.
Session: Cost of Living Families
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One in three people in my constituency are employed directly or indirectly in the oil and gas industry. Given the reduction in investment due to the tax system, is the Secretary of State confident that the Government's measure of the number of jobs lost, particularly in the oil and gas industry, is truly accurate, given that people are generally not signing on for universal credit but rather moving to places like Dubai and Doha?
Context
The MP highlighted the impact of the oil and gas industry on her constituency, noting that one in three people are employed directly or indirectly in the sector. She questioned the accuracy of job loss measures.
Pat McFadden
That is of course a hugely important industry for the UK. A transition is taking place, but oil and gas will be part of the mix for a long time to come. The Chancellor met those in the industry last week, and the industry's importance is recognised and hugely valued by the Government.
Session: Unemployment Scotland
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I am concerned about recent trends in levels of unemployment in Scotland, where the unemployment rate is 3.8% and overall economic inactivity is higher than the UK average. Can you provide an assessment of these trends?
Context
The MP noted rising unemployment concerns in Scotland. She mentioned the Scottish unemployment rate of 3.8% and that Scotland's economic inactivity rate is higher than the UK average.
Pat McFadden
The Scottish unemployment rate is 3.8%, and overall economic inactivity in Scotland is higher than in the UK as a whole. Scotland has had the biggest increase in funding since devolution began, including major defence contracts and trade deals benefiting Scotland's whisky and food industries.
Session: Unemployment Scotland
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It is 316 days since the Minister announced that consultation, and it is 560 days since the King’s Speech when the draft legislation was announced. The Minister has made it clear that she expects the draft Bill to be published during this Session. Please will she update us on whether that is still her promise and when we can expect to see that draft Bill to reduce and remove the ethnicity pay gap that people are struggling with?
Context
The Minister has previously announced a consultation and draft legislation to address the ethnicity pay gap, but there is no update on when the draft Bill will be published.
The Minister for Equalities (Seema Malhotra)
As I have highlighted, we are continuing to move forward with our plans. We published the call for evidence and are analysing the responses. We will update the House on our plans soon.
Session: Race Equality Engagement Group
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Food and energy costs remain high, and a significant number of families are struggling—more than they ever have before—to try to make ends meet. Has the Minister given any consideration to matching the SNP’s Scottish child payment to ensure that more families with children can be kept out of poverty?
Context
The MP highlights the ongoing struggle of families with high food and energy costs, noting that many are falling further into hardship. She questions whether the Government is considering measures like the SNP's Scottish child payment to alleviate child poverty.
Diana Johnson
As I said, we lifted the two-child limit in the child poverty strategy. We know that will lift about 450,000 children out of poverty. Combined with all the other measures that we have set out, including on free school meals and so on, we think that about 550,000 children will be lifted out of poverty. That is against the backdrop of the 900,000 children who went into poverty during the time of the Conservative Governments from 2010 onwards. Of course, we speak all the time to the Scottish Government, and we will continue to have conversations about how we can deal with child poverty.
Session: Cost of Living Support for Families
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Why have the recent tweaks to Wales’s borrowing powers been so small? Why haven't these tweaks even offset the inflationary losses since those limits were established?
Context
The autumn Budget made minor adjustments to Wales’s borrowing limits. Scotland has more extensive borrowing powers, providing greater flexibility for capital project investments.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
The UK Government is providing the Welsh Government with nearly £6 billion in additional spending power over the spending review period, as a result of changes to the fiscal framework, additional funding through the Barnett formula and the largest settlement in devolution history. These changes mean that the Welsh Government will be able to invest more funding in hospitals, schools and other public services.
Session: 2025 Budget
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The 16 months since the King’s Speech saw a whip on Labour MPs to oppose scrapping the two-child benefit cap. How many children have slid into poverty as a result of the Government's refusal to scrap that cap?
Context
Since the King's Speech, when Labour MPs were whipped to vote against scrapping the two-child cap, it is now known how many children have been pushed into poverty due to this policy.
The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr Douglas Alexander)
We have always been clear that we wanted to take action based on sound public finances. That’s why it is a Labour Government that has taken difficult and challenging steps, including those after 1997 when we lifted a record number of kids out of poverty.
Session: Cost of Living
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Would the Minister consider a measure similar to Clare’s law to allow people to ask UKVI about someone's current visa status?
Context
Survivors seeking information on visa status of perpetrators are often unable to obtain it.
Jess Phillips
I understand the hon. Lady’s frustration and will take her recommendations away, as they are quite good ones. The Home Office closely scrutinises such areas and I am committed to considering them seriously.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Scotland is the only part of these islands where child poverty is falling, as a result of the Scottish child payment and the mitigation of the bedroom cap. When will the Labour Government move from empty words to actual action to take children out of poverty?
Context
Scotland is the only part of these islands where child poverty is falling, due to specific local measures.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Liz Kendall)
We are already extending free school meals to all families on universal credit. We have extended the holiday activities and food programme, so that we feed poor kids not just during school but in the holidays, too. We have introduced a new fair repayment rate in universal credit. We have made the first ever multi-year settlement for the crisis and resilience fund to help struggling families. We are introducing and rolling out breakfast clubs. Our child poverty strategy will be published in the autumn. We are already taking action to tackle poverty and we will do more.
Session: Topical Questions
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Matching the Scottish child payment by raising the child element of universal credit would bring more than half a million children out of poverty. The Secretary of State has been clear that a lot of issues are being considered by the child poverty taskforce. Is raising the child element of universal credit to the level of the Scottish child payment one of those matters?
Context
The Secretary of State has stated that issues are being considered by the child poverty taskforce.
Alison McGovern
At the risk of boring the House, let me say that all levers are very much on the table when it comes to getting our kids out of poverty.
Session: Topical Questions
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What recent discussions she has had with the Welsh Government on the potential merits of devolving the Crown Estate. In contrast to that, in one year, the Crown Estate helped its tenants generate an economic impact of £2.1 billion and supported almost 17,000 jobs. How can the Secretary of State continue to justify withholding the same profits from Wales when Scottish voters are enjoying the benefits?
Context
Recent research by the Crown Estate Scotland showed that in one year, the Crown Estate helped its tenants generate an economic impact of £2.1 billion and supported almost 17,000 jobs. Scottish voters have enjoyed these benefits since devolution.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
This Government do not support devolution of the Crown Estate as that would risk market fragmentation, jeopardising jobs and significant investment. We are focused on securing over 5,000 jobs and billions of pounds of investment in Wales through floating offshore wind projects.
Session: Devolution Crown Estate
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Will the Minister meet me to discuss the issues faced by women with no recourse to public funds who are fleeing domestic violence? As they may not be eligible for support with housing, they may struggle to find refuge places. I would appreciate a meeting to discuss this issue.
Context
Women with no recourse to public funds fleeing domestic violence struggle to find refuge places.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
I will absolutely meet the hon. Lady to discuss those issues. The migrant victims of domestic abuse concession applies to all migrant victims, regardless of the type of visa that they are on, and it should be providing that support.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Can the Minister reassure people who have had an amputation or have schizophrenia, terminal cancer or uncontrolled epilepsy that tomorrow’s announcements will not mean a cut in their social security?
Context
The MP asks about the impact of upcoming announcements on people with disabilities or serious health conditions.
Stephen Timms
As we have already made clear today, we are absolutely determined to protect those who need to be protected in the proposals we are bringing forward. I think the hon. Lady will welcome and be reassured by the proposals when she sees them.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am pleased that the Minister is updating us with progress. Does she believe the poverty strategy will be announced quickly enough for there to be changes made in, for example, the spring or autumn statements, or are we looking into next year? Please could she give an idea of the timeline?
Context
The questioner asks about the timeline for the release of the Government’s child poverty strategy.
The Minister for Employment (Alison McGovern)
I hope the hon. Lady will understand from the tone of what I said that this matter is urgent and that we are working quickly and will bring forward proposals as soon as we can.
Session: Child Poverty Strategy
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Is the decision that governmental responsibility ends when working age ends due to low-earning women being far less likely to accumulate sufficient private pensions?
Context
Low-earning women are less likely to have sufficient private pensions compared to their male counterparts.
Bridget Phillipson
The hon. Lady raises an important point about some of the differences in pensions. I am more than happy to pick that up with the relevant Minister to ensure she receives a full response.
Session: Future Earnings Impact of Socioeconomic Disadvantage
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I thank the residents of York for donating to my thermals collection on Saturday, but I know that older people in the city of York will really struggle this winter. Will the Minister say how many people across the country have signed up to pension credit since July and what additional steps will be taken to ensure that those who miss the 21 December deadline will still be able to get support to keep warm this winter?
Context
The question is prompted by a thermals collection in York, highlighting older people's struggles this winter.
Emma Reynolds
Claims have more than doubled—they have increased by 145% since late July—and we are working at pace to process those claims. We have deployed an additional 500 staff to ensure that those on the lowest incomes get the pension credit that they need.
Session: Winter Fuel Payment Pensioner Poverty
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What is she doing to ensure that those claims are processed as quickly as possible?
Context
Temperatures are expected to drop in Scotland, and many pensioners fear putting on heating due to the cost. The Big Issue reports a three-month delay in claiming pension credit.
Emma Reynolds
We have redeployed 500 staff to process pension credit claims more quickly. We are focused on getting the support into people's pockets as soon as possible.
Session: Pension Credit Uptake
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Will they commit themselves to ensuring that trans people do have access to the healthcare that they need, and to ensuring that waiting lists are brought down as soon as possible?
Context
The questioner refers to commitments made on the implementation of the Cass review and seeks further assurances regarding access to healthcare and reducing waiting lists.
Anneliese Dodds
The hon. Member is right to draw attention to the very long waiting lists currently experienced by many people. I know that the Health Secretary is focusing on the issue, as well as on LGBT health more broadly—indeed, on health for everyone—as part of our mission to get the NHS off the floor and off its knees and working for everyone in the country.
Session: Topical Questions
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How can the Government lift thousands of children out of poverty overnight by removing the two-child cap and benefit cap?
Context
The two-child cap and benefit cap impact families with more children, contributing to child poverty.
Liz Kendall
I am under no illusion about the impact 14 years of the Conservatives and the social security system has had on child poverty. That is why we are determined to take action across government to increase family incomes, drive down costs and, crucially, put in place long-term support, particularly in the early years.
Session: Child Poverty Taskforce
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The skilled worker salary threshold and the skills list are simply not working. Will the Minister ensure that the skilled occupation list is fit for purpose in Scotland, and that it works for our energy transition?
Context
The current skilled worker salary threshold and skills list are deemed not effective in supporting Scotland's energy transition.
Kirsty McNeill
Fixing the foundations of our economy is the key to long-term prosperity. That includes future-proofing the economy for all, whether that is long-established families or new arrivals. The Chancellor will set out plans to fix the foundations in the Budget on 30 October.
Session: Scottish Work Visa Scheme
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If he will make an assessment with Cabinet colleagues of the potential merits of devolving the power to introduce a Scottish work visa scheme to the Scottish Government.
Context
The question arises from the need to address specific migration and skills issues in Scotland that differ from other parts of the UK.
Kirsty McNeill
We will strengthen the Migration Advisory Committee, and establish a framework for joint working with skills bodies across the UK, the Industrial Strategy Council and the Department for Work and Pensions. The needs of our economy are different across the regions and nations, and different sectors have different needs.
Session: Scottish Work Visa Scheme
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Means-testing the winter fuel payment increases the burden on many vulnerable people and reduces their living standards. Unlike the Scottish Government, who have many statutory constraints on their budgets, the Chancellor's fiscal rules are entirely self-imposed. Does the Minister think that sticking to the Chancellor's fiscal rules is more important than the health and wellbeing of pensioners?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the impact of means-testing on pensioners' living standards. It contrasts the Chancellor's fiscal rules with statutory constraints faced by the Scottish Government.
James Murray
Let me be clear: if we do not have fiscal responsibility—if we do not stick to fiscal rules—we will lack the economic stability that is so crucial to getting the economy growing and ensuring that people across Britain are better off. We must return stability and fiscal responsibility to our country following the Conservative Government's record. We saw what happened when they lost control of the public finances and made unfunded spending commitments. We need to ensure that that never happens again, which is why we are hardwiring fiscal responsibility into the future of government through our new Budget Responsibility Bill.
Session: Living Standards
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With the Olympics happening in Paris in the forthcoming months, what work is the Minister doing to ensure that the residents of Uxbridge and South Ruislip, and those across the whole country, get to support GB as passionately as if the games were being held on our shores?
Context
The MP wants to ensure that residents across the country can support Team GB as enthusiastically as if the Olympics were being held domestically.
Lucy Frazer
We are all looking forward to the Olympics and good luck to Team GB. UK Sport invested £382 million of Exchequer and lottery funding for the Paris Olympics. We also want to ensure, with the change maker programme initiative, that when our athletes come back from the Paris games, they give back to communities such as those of my hon. Friend.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last year, the UK Government promised to relocate hundreds of civil service posts to the north-east of Scotland. It has now been confirmed that the total number will be 35. Given the billions generated in energy revenues and the unparalleled potential of our area in powering our green future, can the Minister please explain to the people of the north-east of Scotland how hundreds and 35 are now the same thing?
Context
The UK Government promised to relocate hundreds of civil service posts to the north-east of Scotland, but it has been confirmed that only 35 will be relocated. This contrasts with the region's significant energy revenues and potential for green power.
John Glen
I think the hon. Lady is referring to the second headquarters of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in Aberdeen, which I visited just before Christmas. I think that there was a misunderstanding about the numbers that were quoted in the paper. Some 18,283 jobs have moved out of London as a consequence of the places for growth programme. I will examine the number that have moved to Scotland, and write to her to clarify the Government's position.
Session: Topical Questions
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Recent revelations that children as young as three received infected blood are truly horrific. How can parents have faith in the UK Government ensuring accountability and taking real responsibility without payouts of compensation?
Context
Children as young as three were given infected blood, causing long-term health issues. Payouts of compensation are needed for accountability.
John Glen
Sir Brian Langstaff's final report on 20 May will reveal in detail the allegations and consequences. The Minister is working with devolved Administrations to ensure a United Kingdom approach.
Session: Infected Blood Inquiry Second Interim Report
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The recent announcements on fit note reform are the latest in a long series of attacks on the most vulnerable. Does she understand how much more difficult these changes will make life for people?
Context
Recent fit note reforms are criticised as attacks on sick and disabled people.
Victoria Atkins
These reforms are being brought forward due to an unsustainable rise in fit notes. We want to support people into work, funded by those who pay taxes and work. I draw attention to Scotland's record on drug deaths.
Session: Topical Questions
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What urgent measures will be taken to address the negative impact of Brexit on the supply of medicines?
Context
Recent Nuffield Trust reports indicate that medicine shortages are becoming a norm in the UK, partly due to disruptions caused by Brexit, such as customs checks and leaving the European Medicines Agency.
Andrew Stephenson
The SNP's usual narrative blaming everything on Brexit is dismissed. Medicine shortages are a global issue, and supply chains face complex challenges related to regulation and demand fluctuations.
Session: Type 2 Diabetes Medicine Shortages
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The Resolution Foundation highlights that scrapping the two-child limit would be one of the most efficient ways to drive down child poverty rates, and would lift 490,000 children out of poverty overnight. Surely one child growing up in poverty is one child too many. The Secretary of State should reverse course on this, and the Labour party should also commit to scrapping the two-child limit. Does the Secretary of State agree that no child should grow up in poverty, and will he take action to ensure that that stops now?
Context
The MP is questioning the Government's decision to maintain the two-child limit, which affects child poverty rates.
Mel Stride
The hon. Lady raises the same point as her colleague, the hon. Member for Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch East (Stuart C. McDonald), about the two-child limit. I will not detain the House by repeating exactly the same answer, other than to agree passionately with her that one child in poverty is one too many, and to say that, although we have further to go, it is important to recognise that we have reduced the number of children in absolute poverty, after housing costs, by 400,000 since 2010.
Session: Topical Questions
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Research from the Trussell Trust reveals more than half of people receiving universal credit ran out of food and could not afford more, with 2.4 million falling into debt due to essential bills. Will the Secretary of State commit to legislating for an essentials guarantee in universal credit?
Context
Research revealing that over half of universal credit claimants ran out of food and fell into debt.
Mel Stride
The most important thing is that this Government recognise that the best way out of poverty, and the best way to address the circumstances that the hon. Lady describes, is through work. That is why the Chancellor reduced taxation, making work pay ever more, and why the national living wage is to be increased by close to 10% this April, following a similar increase around this time last year. Benefits are going up by 6.7% and increased by 10.1% this time last year. I have already mentioned local housing allowance, and of course we have now had eight consecutive months of real wage growth as inflation has fallen.
Session: Cost of Living Food Bank Use
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In response to the question from the hon. Member for Twickenham (Munira Wilson), the Minister stressed the importance of Ministers being accountable to this House, particularly for breaches of the ministerial code, but neither the independent adviser on Ministers' interests nor the Prime Minister are truly accountable to the House when it comes to the ministerial code—and the Foreign Secretary is not accountable to this House at all. Trust is at an all-time low, and breaches of the ministerial code are rife. When will the Government revise the code to include appropriate sanctions, so that Ministers can no longer break the code with impunity?
Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of accountability for Ministers and the Foreign Secretary.
Oliver Dowden
The Government continue to keep the ministerial code under review. The Prime Minister of the day has to be able to determine who the Ministers will be in the Government that he leads on behalf of His Majesty. That is an important constitutional principle, but the Prime Minister will not hesitate to take action if there have been inappropriate breaches.
Session: Topical Questions
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Have the Government made any assessment of the additional cost to SMEs, and how many businesses will go under as a result?
Context
There is concern over additional costs and red tape for small businesses as a result of new import controls.
Steven Baker
We are not expecting businesses to go under. We need to protect our borders from public health risks, but we will work carefully with stakeholders.
Session: Border Target Operating Model
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Will any new requirement be placed on UK politicians to disclose in full interests from foreign states, even when those are in blind trusts or managements?
Context
Concerns about the disclosure requirements for UK politicians with interests from foreign states, even when held in blind trusts.
Esther McVey
I refer the hon. Lady to the latest list of Ministers' interests published on 14 December 2023, which included relevant interests of all Ministers forming the Government as of that date, including the Foreign Secretary. Our approach with China remains unchanged and is robustly in line with our G7 and Five Eyes partners.
Session: Ministers’ Interests Transparency
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How can the public trust their politicians when that money is hidden from public scrutiny, given that Prime Minister and four Ministers hold their wealth in blind trusts or managements?
Context
Concerns about the public's ability to trust politicians when their financial interests are not transparently declared.
Esther McVey
There are established regimes in place for the declaration and management of Ministers' interests, overseen by an independent adviser who publishes reports twice a year.
Session: Ministers’ Interests Transparency
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We would appreciate it if that list could be published before Christmas at the latest, because it is incredibly important. Section 7.25 of the ministerial code prohibits Ministers from lobbying Government for a two-year period after they leave office. It does not, unfortunately, say anything about interests before they are put into office.
Context
Trust in politicians is at an all-time low and there are concerns about the transparency of the ministerial code, particularly regarding the appointment of Lord Cameron. The perception that he was lobbying on behalf of hostile foreign interests raises questions about trustworthiness.
John Glen
I just do not accept the hon. Lady's view. I have set out in previous answers this morning that there is an established, thorough process that is constantly being updated. The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Secretary of State in the Cabinet Office, my right hon. Friend the Member for Hertsmere (Oliver Dowden), assures me that that update will be out before the end of this calendar year.
Session: Ministerial Code Compliance
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With post-Brexit tightening of immigration rules and increased costs due to Brexit causing a disproportionate impact on the creative sector, what representations are being made ahead of the autumn statement to ensure adequate funding for this industry in Scotland?
Context
Post-Brexit immigration rules and the cost of living crisis disproportionately affect Scotland's creative sector, which relies on public service support.
John Whittingdale
The UK Government has been generous to the creative industries, with Creative Scotland receiving £63 million in grant aid and support for Edinburgh festivals announced in the March Budget.
Session: EU Exit Creative Industries in Scotland
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It is clear that the Tories want to privatise our health service, selling NHS data in England to a Trump-backed business, Palantir, under a £27 million deal without competitive tender. They also accepted a £5 million donation this week. Does the Deputy Prime Minister agree that keeping Scotland's NHS out of Westminster Tory hands is essential for its protection?
Context
The question is prompted by the government's data deal with Palantir, which was done without competitive tender. Additionally, a £5 million donation from a health tycoon has raised concerns.
Alex Burghart
The hon. Lady will know, because she sat on the Procurement Bill Committee, that we have a new procurement regime coming in, but it is my understanding that everything was above board and in line with due process.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Last year, the Prime Minister said that his Government would do “everything we can” to recover covid fraud losses, yet only £21 million—only 2%—has been recovered from fraudsters. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to fulfil his Government's pledge to reclaim misused taxpayer money? Or is that, like the Prime Minister's promise of integrity and accountability, another failed vow?
Context
MP questioned the government's commitment to recovering misused funds.
Oliver Dowden
During the crisis, we saw decisive action by the then Chancellor to save the economy and millions of jobs. Since moving out of the covid period, we are taking action to recover fraud and error losses. In the past two years alone, more than £3 billion has been recovered.
Session: Propriety in Public Life
View All Questions -->
There is a bit of unedifying silliness in the Chamber this morning. We are absolutely beside ourselves that we seemingly cannot do anything about this, and the Government are not taking any responsibility. Just because something has been convention since 1985 does not mean that we should continue doing it. If the antics of the dishonourable member for the Chiltern hundreds were not bad enough, convention now dictates that the 49-day former Prime Minister, the right hon. Member for South West Norfolk (Elizabeth Truss), who crashed the economy, which directly contributed to the mortgage rate rises that people are struggling with, will also get to make nominations. Why is even more power and privilege being awarded to those who have caused untold misery and hardship?
Context
MP questioned why more power and privilege is being awarded to those who have caused economic hardship, specifically Elizabeth Truss.
Alex Burghart
I refer the hon. Lady to the answer that I gave a few moments ago.
Session: Resignation Honours Lists Impact
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Asylum Reforms: Protected Characteristics
17 December 2025
Responding: Alex Norris
Main Concerns
['There have been a lot of announcements in relation to immigration policy since the Government came into office, with a startling lack of equality impact assessments. Changes to asylum policy disproportionately affect women, queer folk, disabled people, and very young or elderly individuals due to their protected characteristics.']
Specific Asks
['The UK Government needs to take into account the nuances and differences in individual circumstances when making decisions on asylum, recognising that groups with protected characteristics face additional barriers. The requirement to contribute for leave to remain disadvantages those unable to work or study fully.']
North Sea Oil and Gas Workers: Transitional Support
23 April 2025
Responding: Michael Shanks
Main Concerns
['Direct employment in oil and gas in Aberdeen has declined by nearly one-third since 2015, leading to increased poverty. The energy transition survey shows political uncertainty as the top worry for companies, with concerns over final investment decisions being pushed back due to grid connection issues and changes to taxes.']
Specific Asks
['The Government needs to ensure that the transition is just and managed properly by providing transitional support for workers moving into renewables sectors. There is a need for job creation in offshore wind industries to match the decline in oil and gas jobs.']
Online Safety
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Economic Growth
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Jackdaw and Rosebank Oil and Gas Fields
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Timms Review: Interim Report
09 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Russian Attacks on Civilian Infrastructure
04 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Pride Month
04 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Olivia Bailey opens the debate by highlighting the progress made in LGBT+ rights and recognising Labour's role in repealing section 28, ending the ban on LGBT people serving in armed forces, introduci...
Lebanon: Israel Defence Forces Operations
03 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs to make a statement on the Israel Defence Forces’ operations in Lebanon. Emphasised that the IDF is expanding its i...
Milburn Review: Interim Report
02 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Murder of Henry Nowak
02 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Humble Address: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
35.1%
34 of 97 votes
Aye Votes
27
27.8% of votes
No Votes
7
7.2% of votes
Abstentions
63
64.9% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
7
PMQs Asked
54
Ministerial Questions Asked
157
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
97
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
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+303% above average
This MP:
54
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3131% above average
This MP:
157
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-49% below average
This MP:
35.1
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 Kirsty Blackman's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.