Liz Saville-Roberts
MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd
PC
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Diolch yn fawro, Lefarydd. The end of the Prime Minister's premiership comes close on the heels of the end of Labour's 100-year dominance in Wales. People simply did not feel that his party stood up for them, and it is irrefutable that that too is part of the Prime Minister's legacy. I believe there is a tradition of leaving notes on desks for successors. Will the Prime Minister leave a useful note to the incoming Prime Minister, saying that respect and understanding go a very long way and that democratic choices, including those of devolution, cannot be dismissed?
Context
The Prime Minister's premiership is nearing its end, coming close to the end of Labour's 100-year dominance in Wales.
Keir Starmer
I shall leave a note saying that what we delivered for Wales in these two years was the largest ever devolution settlement; the UK's first small nuclear reactor, in Anglesey; investing £14 billion in Welsh rail; and a pay rise for 170,000 workers across Wales. I will end the note by saying, “We are lifting 70,000 Welsh children out of poverty—Keir Starmer”.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address leaving a specific note on respect and understanding towards democratic choices including devolution for the next Prime Minister.
Redirected
Session: PMQs
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Welsh voters have chosen a Plaid Cymru Government focused on fairness and hope, demanding funding recovery from High Speed 2, a fair financial arrangement for Wales, and enhanced governance over its natural resources. Will the Prime Minister consider moving towards action that fulfills the democratic aspirations of Welsh citizens?
Context
Last month, Welsh voters elected a Plaid Cymru Government with a mandate for fairness and hope. The government seeks to secure funding owed from High Speed 2, a new financial settlement that reflects Wales' needs, and more powers over natural resources.
Keir Starmer
I thank the right hon. Member for her question. As I hope she knows, I did have a call with the First Minister of Wales just two weeks ago and made it clear that I and this Government will work constructively with the First Minister and the Government in Wales, because that is the right thing to do to deliver for Wales.
Assessment
Specific actions or commitments towards securing funding owed from High Speed 2, a new financial settlement reflecting Wales' needs, and enhanced governance over natural resources were not addressed
Session: PMQs
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I know how much professional care work means to the Deputy Prime Minister. Cariad Care Homes in Porthmadog tells me that it will not be able to absorb the additional exorbitant costs imposed by her Government's Budget. It tells me that they pose a threat worse than covid to the business. Will she therefore personally intervene, so that her Government at least make care providers exempt from the rise in employers' national insurance contributions?
Context
Cariad Care Homes in Porthmadog is struggling with additional costs imposed by the government's budget, which they believe pose a threat worse than covid to their business.
Angela Rayner
The right hon. Lady is right to say that I value the work of care providers and carers across the whole of the United Kingdom. That is why we have put in additional funding through the Budget.
Assessment
The specific intervention for exemption from national insurance contributions was not addressed directly
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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Plaid Cymru, too, pays tribute to Alex Salmond and Sir David Amess. One in five people in Wales are on an NHS waiting list. The Secretary of State for Wales says that a new cross-border NHS plan would bring down Welsh surgery waiting lists, but the Labour First Minister of Wales contradicts her and denies that it has anything to do with bringing down waiting lists. Are they making it up as they go along?
Context
One in five people in Wales are on an NHS waiting list. The Secretary of State for Wales and the Labour First Minister contradict each other about a cross-border NHS plan's impact.
Keir Starmer
The difference is that we now have a Westminster Government who want to work with the Welsh Government to deliver for the people of Wales. For 14 long years the Welsh Government were in a position where the then UK Government were in conflict with them. Now, we will work together, collaborate and ensure that we deliver across Wales.
Session: PMQs
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My party has secured a win for Welsh farmers as Labour halted the sustainable farming scheme. Will the Prime Minister guarantee he will never sign a deal that threatens farmers' interests?
Context
The Welsh Labour Government is pausing the sustainable farming scheme, which affects farmers in Wales negatively.
Rishi Sunak
Welsh Conservatives exposed flaws in Labour's proposals, which would have led to job losses and less food security. The Prime Minister criticises Plaid Cymru's support for the Welsh Labour Government.
Assessment
Guaranteeing protection against harmful deals
Changing Subject
Criticising Opposition
Session: PMQs
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University College London found that austerity policies between 2010 and 2019 set back life expectancy progress by three years. Can public services withstand an extra £20 billion of cuts?
Context
The National Theatre's production celebrates increased life expectancy due to the NHS, but UCL findings suggest a setback due to austerity policies.
Rishi Sunak
The National Theatre received funding from the Chancellor. The right hon. Lady should be surprised to raise NHS when her party supports a Government with poor NHS performance.
Assessment
No discussion on whether public services can withstand another £20 billion in cuts.
Funding For National Theatre
Poor Nhs Performance
Session: PMQs
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Plaid Cymru has signed Full Fact's pledge for an honest general election campaign. There is evidence of egregious, misleading campaigning in Wales and elsewhere by the Conservatives in recent weeks. Will the Prime Minister sign Full Fact's pledge for an honest election?
Context
There is evidence of misleading campaigning in Wales by the Conservatives.
Rishi Sunak
I was pleased to be in Wales just last week, and these are the facts on the ground: the Labour-run Welsh NHS is performing the worst in the United Kingdom; small Welsh businesses, including pubs and restaurants, are facing a crippling rise in their business rates; and Welsh farmers are being decimated by the plans of the Welsh Labour Government.
Assessment
signing Full Fact's pledge
Welsh Nhs Performance
Business Rate Increase
Session: PMQs
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I am sure the Prime Minister will join me and the communities I represent in sending heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends grieving at the loss of four young men in a tragic accident in Garreg Llanfrothen this week. People in north Wales pay the highest standing charges on energy bills, at £340 a year—a third more than in London—despite having lower average incomes and living in older, poorly insulated houses.
Context
North Wales faces higher standing charges and older, poorly insulated houses compared to London.
Rishi Sunak
We have provided an extraordinary package of support for households across the country to help with energy bills, totalling almost £100 billion over the past year or two. The Ofgem price cap has also fallen to about £1,800 currently, and our price guarantee will remain in place until the spring of next year.
Assessment
Did not address specific unfair standing charges issue
Support Packages In Place
Session: PMQs
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Diolch yn fawr, Lefarydd. The Prime Minister's solution to inflation is to push families into poverty while letting corporate profits pile up. Economic illiteracy? The International Monetary Fund said this week that the way to cut inflation is for companies to cut their profit margins. It is corporate greed that is fuelling inflation, not workers' need for fair play. Can he explain to the one in five people in Wales facing hunger because they cannot afford to buy decent food why they must pay his price for lowering inflation?
Context
The MP criticises the government's approach to inflation, citing an IMF statement on corporate profits fuelling inflation.
Rishi Sunak
My right hon. Friend the Chancellor met with all the economic regulators this morning and they will be making an announcement later about their plans to ensure fairness of pricing in supply chains to ease the burden on consumers. I am glad the right hon. Lady brought up the IMF when it comes to tackling inflation. The IMF, in its words, strongly endorsed our plan to halve inflation and called our steps 'decisive and responsible'.
Assessment
The answer does not directly address families' struggle with high prices but mentions plans for pricing fairness.
Imf Strongly Endorsed Our Plan To Halve Inflation
Session: PMQs
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Will he plead guilty to the great Welsh train robbery?
Context
Travellers from north to south Wales have to go via England, and the PM is accused of depriving Wales by ruling that certain UK projects do not benefit Wales.
Rishi Sunak
We always want to work co-operatively with the Welsh Government on transport matters. We are investing record sums in communities through levelling-up fund and community ownership fund, including many transport projects. The Labour Welsh Government plans to ban new road building should be opposed.
Assessment
Specific ask about HS2 funding allocation was not addressed.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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Disruption from strikes is minor compared to chronic disruption caused daily by 13 years of butchering health budgets. Health services in Wales suffer from mismanagement by Labour and a Westminster funding system perpetuating poverty. What has the Government done, and what are they doing to tackle this?
Context
The questioner criticises the UK government for its handling of health budgets, blaming mismanagement by Welsh Labour and a Westminster funding system that perpetuates poverty.
Rishi Sunak
Let me join the hon. Lady in wishing Gareth Bale well as a Southampton fan. Funding Wales, it is due to Barnett that they receive significantly more than the NHS in England plus £1.2 billion extra from the autumn statement. This Government have introduced the Online Safety Bill for child protection and penalties on tech companies.
Assessment
Did not address criticisms about mismanagement or funding issues, instead focusing on praise for Gareth Bale and highlighting NHS funding.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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Britain's economic prospects are worsened by being outside the EU trading bloc, as per OBR forecasts. Who does he agree with—the OBR or his Tory Minister?
Context
The PM is rebuilding the Tories' economic credibility after his predecessor's actions. A Bloomberg interview mentioned disputes with OBR forecasts.
Rishi Sunak
Brexit offers opportunities to trade more globally, and many Welsh farmers are benefiting from new markets. This is what we will deliver.
Assessment
The question about agreeing with OBR forecasts was not answered directly.
Focusing On Positive Outcomes Of Brexit
Session: PMQs
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Diolch yn fawroedd, Lefarydd. Child poverty has increased in every part of Wales under Tory cuts to public services and malign welfare policies. In the communities I represent, 37% of children are now growing up in poverty. The Prime Minister has one last chance to make a real difference to those children's lives before he leaves office. Will he scrap the two-child limit and reinstate the £20 uplift for all families entitled to welfare?
Context
Child poverty has increased in every part of Wales over the past seven years due to cuts to public services and welfare policies. In Dwyfor Meirionnydd, 37% of children are now living in poverty.
Boris Johnson
Of course the Labour Government in Wales is responsible for schools, but what we have been doing is not only increasing the living wage by £1,000 and providing the £37 billion-worth of financial support that I mentioned, but helping councils with a £1.5 billion household support fund to get families such as those the right hon. Lady mentions through the tough times. We will come out very strongly the other side.
Assessment
The question asked about scrapping the two-child limit and reinstating a £20 welfare uplift, but no commitment to these specific measures was made
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister want a medal for being the best recruiting sergeant for independence we could wish for?
Context
The question arises from perceived arrogance of the Westminster Government in dealing with Wales.
Boris Johnson
I see bonds of our Union being strengthened all the time, talking to Mark Drakeford recently as well. Bonds are strong despite political concerns.
Assessment
Did not address the specific question about Welsh independence and Westminster's role
Session: PMQs
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When the Deputy Prime Minister announced his Bill of Rights last week, he said that it would strengthen our UK “tradition of freedom” Freedom? That is shameless from a Government whose contempt for the rule of law and devolution can be judged in equal measure. They are scrapping Welsh law against our will and denying Scotland the right to choose its own future. That is not freedom. Will he prove me wrong by enshrining self-determination in his Bill of Rights?
Context
The Deputy Prime Minister's Bill of Rights was announced, which Plaid Cymru sees as a denial of devolution to Wales. It is contested how this aligns with freedom.
Dominic Raab
The right hon. Lady was deft in getting that in. Across the Benches, we have all heard the case for reinforcing free speech, whether that is about judge-made privacy laws or how people are shouted down when they express legitimate opinions.
Assessment
Enshrining self-determination in the Bill of Rights
Reinforcing Free Speech
Session: PMQs
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My mother was diagnosed with dementia before Christmas and had a stroke last year. Due to a covid staff shortage, I was called to sit with her but fear we may be separated indefinitely when she moves into an EMI nursing home. John's Campaign has successfully campaigned for person-centred care in every UK nation under the Equality Act 2010, yet many care homes and hospitals deny even minimal visits leading to isolation and damage to wellbeing. Do you agree that everyone with dementia wherever they live has a right to family life?
Context
Dr Nancy Saville, the MP's mother, was diagnosed with dementia and had a stroke. The MP raises concerns about family separation due to staff shortages in hospitals.
Boris Johnson
I extend my deepest sympathies regarding your mother's condition. We must balance care home safety with visitation rights. Three nominated visitors are allowed, no time limit on visits. I suggest you meet with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.
Assessment
The MP asked about the right to family life under human rights laws; the PM did not address this specifically but acknowledged distress due to restrictions.
Sympathy Statement
Offer Of Meeting
Session: PMQs
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Given that the Prime Minister has violated principles like selflessness and honesty, what measures will be taken if he continues to flout the rules? How can citizens ensure accountability when the judge of his conduct is him?
Context
The Prime Minister is under scrutiny for multiple breaches of the ministerial code, including alleged inappropriate language about body counts. The sole arbiter on these matters is the PM himself.
Boris Johnson
Voters should choose between Welsh Labour's failures and the Conservative vision for Wales: 65,000 high-skilled jobs, A55 improvements, more teachers and nurses, addressing M4 issues.
Assessment
Conduct breaches and ministerial code violations
Directing To Election Choices
Session: PMQs
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As we heard, the Government claim to have a levelling-up agenda underpinned by a research and development road map. However, Wales receives much less R&D spend per person than other parts of the UK. Will the Prime Minister now commit to a further devolved R&D funding settlement to the Senedd?
Context
The Government claims a levelling-up agenda but Wales receives the lowest R&D spend per person of all four nations at around 40% of England's spending. The government is focused on Oxford, Cambridge and London.
Boris Johnson
I disagree with the right hon. Lady's assessment that Wales is being downgraded or neglected. I think the aerospace sector in Wales alone bears witness to our commitment to innovation and development, with massive spending on R&D over £22 billion by the end of this Parliament.
Assessment
The specific ask for a devolved funding settlement was not addressed directly
Claiming Commitment To Wales Despite Low Figures
Session: PMQs
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How much investment will be diverted away from Wales because of your Government's decision to label HS2 an England and Wales scheme despite no part being in Wales?
Context
The UK Government's statement on funding shows a significant decrease in transport spend allocated to Wales from 80.9% to 36.6%. This is seen as an unfair distribution due to the fact that Welsh taxpayers are contributing to English transport projects like HS2, but not receiving a fair return.
Boris Johnson
The Welsh Government will receive £1.3 billion next year, with additional funding for farmers and fisheries in Wales. The previous Labour-led government spent £144 million on plans for an M4 bypass which they then abandoned.
Assessment
The specific ask about HS2 investment loss was not addressed.
Mentioning General Funding
Bringing Up Past Projects
Session: PMQs
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Diolch yn fawr, Lefarydd. From tomorrow, 2.3 million people in Wales will not be able to travel out of county without good reason, yet people from lockdown areas in England can still visit rural Wales. Travelling from Betws-y-Coed to Beddgelert could land someone with a fine, but Rochdale to Rhosneigr is no problem. I raised that with the Prime Minister last week. Leisure travel from lockdown areas has to stop. Will he make good on that today?
Context
2.3 million people in Wales will not be able to travel out of county without good reason from tomorrow, while people from lockdown areas in England can still visit rural Wales.
Boris Johnson
There are different measures in place, as we have discussed already this afternoon. Overall, the UK is proceeding with the same approach. I am very grateful to Mark Drakeford and everybody else in the Welsh Government for the way we are working together to defeat the virus. Yes, there will be some differences and some seeming illogicalities, but that is inevitable in tackling a pandemic. I am grateful for the right hon. Lady's co-operation.
Assessment
The specific ask about enforcing leisure travel restrictions was not addressed directly; instead, the PM discussed different measures and the need to work together.
Working With Partners
Differences In Approach
Session: PMQs
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I am fully supportive of the Prime Minister's pledge to redistribute funds from the south-east but cannot understand why his Welsh Secretary would claim Wales lacks sufficient resources and businesses. Does he agree with this pessimistic view?
Context
The Welsh Secretary took to Twitter arguing that Wales is too poor for success, which contradicts the PM's rhetoric on levelling up.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
I have never met a more enthusiastic advocate for Wales than my Welsh Secretary. This Government is dedicated to levelling up across the UK, investing in infrastructure, education, and technology in Wales. We will address issues like the Brynglas tunnels and provide necessary support, unlike previous Labour governments.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister now commit to local furlough-like schemes for self-isolating workers to support them financially?
Context
There are outbreaks of coronavirus in Welsh food factories.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
As I said in my statement yesterday, the coronavirus job retention scheme—the furlough scheme—as well as what we have done for self-employed people, which has also been considerable, and the expansion of universal credit have been massive commitments by our Government to the workforce of this country. We will continue to make those commitments and, as I said yesterday, if we have to move back—obviously we do not want to—to local lockdowns, or indeed a national lockdown, nobody should be penalised for doing the right thing.
Session: PMQs
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Liz Saville-Roberts asked about the four-nations approach's meaningfulness regarding unlocking lockdown measures. She wanted confirmation on whether lifting could only happen by unanimous agreement among all four Governments.
Context
There is concern that if the lockdown is lifted in one nation or region prematurely, it may cause confusion and increase infection spread.
The First Secretary of State Dominic Raab
Dominic Raab paid tribute to the Administrations in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. He mentioned excellent co-operation through Cobra meetings and consistency in social distancing measures. He stated they aim for collaborative work as they move into the second phase.
Assessment
Specific commitment to unanimous agreement
Acknowledged Importance Of Cooperation But Did Not Commit
Session: PMQs
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I hope the Prime Minister has the humility to recognise that not everybody will be celebrating on Friday night. We have been promised that leaving the EU will bring power closer to the people and give us a greater say in our communities, but instead many people feel that they have so far been ignored and disempowered. Will he demonstrate his willingness to listen to all voices by meeting Plaid Cymru leader, Adam Price, and me, to discuss how Wales will win the tools to forge a better future?
Context
The questioner expresses concerns that not everyone feels empowered by the decision to leave the EU.
Boris Johnson
I certainly share the right hon. Lady's general sentiment that it is time for the whole country to come together. I think from memory that Wales voted to leave the EU, and it is time that we regarded this as a beginning. This is curtain-up on a fantastic future for our country, and I respectfully suggest to the right hon. Lady, and others, that that is the frame of mind in which they should approach it.
Assessment
Did not commit to meeting or discussion
Session: PMQs
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I am specifically talking about the steel fund and the contribution it will make to Wales; we know that that money is going to Scunthorpe. The Welsh economy is at least £4 billion smaller and exports are down £1.1 billion since the EU referendum. Northern Ireland's gross value added per head has grown 20% faster than in Wales. Surely the Minister knows that rejoining the single market and customs union would be better for Wales.
Context
The steel fund is not being utilised for Wales as expected, with significant negative impacts on the Welsh economy post-Brexit. Over a decade since the EU referendum, Wales has seen its GDP shrink by at least £4 billion, while exports have dropped by £1.1 billion.
Anna McMorrin
This Government are resetting our relations with European partners to improve economic and security co-operation following Brexit. We struck a deal that is good for bills, good for borders and good for jobs. Our focus is on driving forward and delivering a strong EU-UK relationship.
Session: Job Creation
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The Secretary of State had some cheek earlier, but Wales has less than six weeks of a Plaid Cymru Government. The Port Talbot steelworks fire caused huge damage, but no guarantee of Labour's £2.5 billion steel fund for Welsh steel sites. Will the Government stand up for Welsh interests?
Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of guaranteed funding for steel sites in Wales.
Anna McMorrin
Our steel strategy will revitalise the UK steel sector, restoring domestic production with 50% coming from Wales. I hope the Plaid Welsh Government supports this work to support our Welsh steelworkers.
Session: Job Creation
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My coastguards were informed last week that they will lose their remuneration. They are furious at this undervaluation of their skills and dedication. The Minister mentioned meeting colleagues across the House; I hope he extends this offer to all with coastguard stations, as the risk to recruitment and retention needs clarity.
Context
Coastguards in the constituency have been told they are to lose their remuneration, causing concern about recruitment and retention.
Keir Mather
I am willing to meet the right hon. Lady. The chief executive of the Maritime Coastguard Agency will also do a drop-in with MPs; I will share details.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State's tight-lipped quibbling is an excuse—a shadow of an apology for what her party has failed to do in 27 years. Voters are ready for change. Last night's YouGov poll shows Plaid Cymru and Reform UK neck and neck, with Labour far behind. Will she accept a vote for Labour risks handing power to Reform UK which will wreck the NHS? Will she recognise only Plaid can stop this?
Context
A YouGov poll shows Plaid Cymru and Reform UK are neck and neck, with Labour trailing. A vote for Labour risks handing power to Reform UK which could harm the NHS.
Jo Stevens
The answer to that question is no.
Session: Cost of Living
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Families in Wales under Labour are suffering due to inflation in bills, wage stagnation, and the highest childcare costs in the UK. Plaid Cymru's universal childcare offer would be transformative, worth more than £30,000 a child. Does Secretary of State recognise how Labour's lack of ambition keeps families in poverty?
Context
Families in Wales are struggling with inflation, flatlining wages, and high childcare costs. Plaid Cymru's proposal for a universal childcare offer is valued at over £30,000 per child and has been assessed as affordable and deliverable.
Jo Stevens
Plaid's manifesto, and specifically the childcare policy to which the right hon. Lady refers, exposes that Plaid is not on the side of working people in Wales and is not serious about tackling the cost of living. The Institute for Fiscal Studies has been clear that Plaid would have to make spending cuts or raise taxes to pay for its manifesto pledges. Families will be worse off with Plaid's policy.
Session: Cost of Living
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The family of Mathew Hardy have set up a petition calling for the immediate forfeiture of driving licences upon a positive drink or drug test they do this in circumstances where they lost their son just before Christmas his partner is expecting a baby who will be born bereaved of a father does the Minister agree that the individual's right to drive does not come before another individual's right to life?
Context
The family of Mathew Hardy have set up a petition demanding immediate licence suspension for positive drink or drug tests.
Lilian Greenwood
I thank the right hon. Member for raising this important case, and I send my condolences to the family in her constituency. Many people including bereaved families have raised with me how it feels when they see someone who has been arrested on drink or drug-driving charges being able to drive until their case comes to court that is why suspension of licences is one of the issues covered in our motoring offences consultation I hope that she other Members and members of the public will respond positively to that proposal.
Session: Road Safety
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I expected something a little more thoughtful from the Secretary of State, especially when we consider the Welsh economy. The Industrial Communities Alliance warns that the Government's 70:30 capital-to-revenue split for the local growth fund will have dire consequences. It will pull the rug out from under business support, training and employability services, and it will cost hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs across Wales, including at the fantastic Porthi Dre in Caernarfon, which tackles hunger, food waste and loneliness, but faces the loss of key staff members because of the Labour Government. Will the Secretary of State therefore commit to allowing greater spending flexibility, to safeguard the very jobs that we need to boost employment?
Context
The Industrial Communities Alliance warns that the Government's 70:30 capital-to-revenue split for the local growth fund will have dire consequences. It will pull the rug out from under business support, training and employability services, and it will cost hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs across Wales, including at the fantastic Porthi Dre in Caernarfon, which tackles hunger, food waste and loneliness, but faces the loss of key staff members because of the Labour Government.
Jo Stevens
The UK Government are investing more than half a billion pounds in Wales, through the new local growth fund, to help create jobs, growth and opportunity in communities right across Wales. That targeted long-term investment will drive economic growth, create jobs and put more money in people's pockets. I am proud that we have delivered our manifesto commitment to restore the Welsh Government's decision-making role over those funds.
Session: Economic Growth
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The spring forecast, which revised economic growth downwards, was produced before the outbreak of war in Iran. Now, the price of energy has spiked, with gas up almost 100%. If the war continues for even a few weeks, those costs will directly hit the pockets of people and businesses in Wales. Is the Secretary of State not astounded that Reform Members are cheerleaders for prolonging Trump's aggression in the Gulf, and does she agree that Wales cannot afford the cost of Reform?
Context
The spring forecast revised economic growth downwards before the outbreak of war in Iran. The price of energy has spiked, with gas up almost 100%. The member seeks clarity on the Secretary of State's stance regarding the cost of prolonged conflict and its impact on Wales.
Jo Stevens
Wales certainly cannot afford the cost of Reform; nor can it afford the cost of Plaid Cymru.
Session: Economic Growth
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The Budget commitment of £80 million for the Tata transition board was indeed welcome, but Thrive, the domestic abuse organisation in Neath and Port Talbot, is concerned that since the Tata announcement there has been a rise both in reported incidents of domestic violence and in demand for prevention services for perpetrators. Can the Secretary of State provide assurances that the transition board will look at this as a priority funded project?
Context
Thrive, a domestic abuse organisation, reported an increase in incidents of domestic violence since the Budget commitment for the Tata transition board was announced.
Jo Stevens
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for all her work to tackle domestic abuse. She is such an effective advocate for the people she campaigns for. I also want to thank Thrive for all the work that it does in Neath and Port Talbot. I want to assure my hon. Friend that one of the transition board's aims is to support the wellbeing of workers and their families in our steel communities, and we are studying the data closely to target future releases of funding in the most effective way possible.
Session: Budget 2024
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I am glad that the Secretary of State has mentioned HS2, because her Government's Budget confirmed that HS2 will run to Euston, and that stretch alone will cost £9.4 billion. HS2 construction work also means that passengers from Wales will face disruption, as trains will be diverted away from Paddington for seven years. She previously said that HS2 is “no longer in existence.” Does she stand by this statement, given that Welsh passengers will bear the huge costs of this project?
Context
The UK government's budget confirmed that HS2 will run to Euston, causing costs and disruption for passengers from Wales.
Jo Stevens
The right hon. Lady knows that I was referring to the second phase of HS2, which the Conservative Government cancelled. And she knows, because I have said it before and will say it again, that I remain very angry about the previous Government's broken promises on rail and on HS2. I am working in partnership with the Welsh Government to develop a long-term, sustainably funded package of much-needed rail infrastructure improvements. I met Great Western Railway with the Under-Secretary of State for Wales, my hon. Friend the Member for Llanelli (Dame Nia Griffith), just last week to discuss mitigations in relation to Old Oak Common.
Session: Budget 2024
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Four schoolgirls suffered sexual abuse by their headteacher, Neil Foden, who was sentenced in July to 17 years with a two-thirds tariff. The Crown Prosecution Service now tells me that Foden will instead spend half his sentence in prison, because the most serious of his crimes can only be sentenced to 14 years. Will the Minister meet me to discuss how to safeguard the victims, whose abuser was in a position of trust, because they live in fear of his early release?
Context
Neil Foden, a former headteacher, was sentenced to 17 years for sexually abusing four schoolgirls. The Crown Prosecution Service states he will serve half his sentence due to the maximum sentencing limit.
Alex Davies-Jones
I am aware of the appalling case that the right hon. Lady mentions. It is horrific and all my thoughts are with the victims of those crimes. If she wants to write to me with more details, I will happily look at the case. As she knows, sentencing is a matter for the independent judiciary, but I will look at the case and meet her to discuss it further.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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What is the Treasury doing to safeguard the £85,000 compensation limit for victims of WealthTek?
Context
WealthTek was placed into administration by the Financial Conduct Authority after losing £80 million of its clients' money.
Tulip Siddiq
The FCA is held to account by the Government and Parliament, but Treasury Ministers cannot comment on individual cases. The Treasury has no stake in the operational issues of the FCA.
Session: Topical Questions
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How come strengthening the Union under Labour means that every major rail project in England results in Wales losing out?
Context
The question is prompted by the disparity in transport funding between England and Wales.
Jo Stevens
We have ongoing discussions with the Welsh Government about funding flexibilities. Heavy rail infrastructure is not devolved in Wales as it is in Scotland and Northern Ireland, and the Department for Transport settlement provides a £1.1 billion cash increase to total budgets.
Session: Strengthening the Union
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The Secretary of State for Wales knows the state of the NHS in Wales and the impact of funding cuts on GP surgeries. Why is she instrumental in Labour at both ends of the M4 threatening GP surgeries?
Context
GP funding has decreased by over 2.6% since 2005, leading to staffing issues at surgeries like Treflan in Pwllheli which faces an extra £19,000 cost due to Budget measures.
Jo Stevens
We are not threatening GP surgeries and view the £1.7 billion additional funding for NHS in Wales as a great idea. No alternative proposals were suggested by the Secretary of State to address the specific issues raised about GP funding cuts.
Session: Healthcare Collaboration
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All Welsh women in prison are held in England, and being far from home adds to the emotional torture of separation from children. Without public access to Wales-specific disaggregated data, we cannot assess the extent of this separation properly. Will the Secretary of State commit to making this information public so that we can ensure pregnant women and mothers and their children have proper support?
Context
Welsh women in prison are held in England, and the emotional impact of separation from children without public access to Wales-specific disaggregated data is significant.
Shabana Mahmood
The data on how we track the experiences of women across England and Wales will be work that the women's justice board—once it is up and running—will be able to look into and make recommendations on, which we will pick up in the spring.
Session: Incarcerated Pregnant Women and Mothers
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What steps her Department is taking to support incarcerated pregnant women and mothers. Two-thirds of women in prison are non-violent offenders, over half of whom have dependent children, with 75% of those children leaving home after incarceration, adding emotional torture for the separation from their mother.
Context
Two-thirds of women in prison are non-violent offenders, over half have dependent children, and 75% of the time these children leave home after their mother's incarceration.
Shabana Mahmood
We are sending too many women to prison; we have launched the women's justice board which will set out its strategy in the spring with the goal of reducing the number of women in prison and ultimately women's prisons. The data on how we track the experiences of women across England and Wales will be work that the women's justice board—once it is up and running—will be able to look into and make recommendations on, which we will pick up in the spring.
Session: Incarcerated Pregnant Women and Mothers
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Sadly, it seems that between the Welsh Government and Labour in government here in the UK, that service in north Wales is not a priority—we see that in the rate of on-the-day cancellations. The truth is that the railways are broken, and Labour's plan fails to address the chronic underfunding that is the cause, particularly in Wales. In 2022, the Secretary of State—then shadow Secretary of State—said it was “utterly illogical” to designate HS2 as an England and Wales project, and called on the Conservatives to “cough up” the billions owed to Wales. Will she cough up now?
Context
The MP is concerned about chronic underfunding and poor service quality on rail networks in north Wales, particularly the Avanti West Coast service which has high cancellation rates. The issue was raised previously by the Shadow Secretary of State who called for better funding for Wales.
Jo Stevens
We cannot change past decisions on HS2, but we work closely with colleagues to develop and invest in transport projects improving services across Wales. We need the Conservatives to accept responsibility for chaos and waste during their tenure.
Session: Cross-border Train Services
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On-the-day cancellations on the north Wales to London lines stood at 15.4% in August. We have the highest cancellation rates for the entire Avanti network, three to four times higher than the next worst part of the network. How will the Secretary of State use her role to stop Avanti punishing Welsh travellers?
Context
The MP is concerned about high cancellation rates on the north Wales to London rail network, particularly the Avanti West Coast service which has 15.4% of services cancelled in August, three to four times higher than other areas.
Jo Stevens
The Government require Avanti West Coast to improve performance. Regular performance reviews are held, compliance with contractual obligations is closely monitored, and improvements are driven using contractual mechanisms.
Session: Cross-border Train Services
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Does the Minister agree that there should be better oversight and a simpler remedy for people like Beverley Scott?
Context
The MP highlights a case of poor work carried out under the Government's ECO4 scheme, leading to court intervention.
Amanda Solloway
The right hon. Lady makes an incredibly important point. Of course, one of the things that we are determined to do is make sure that those installations are carried out in the correct manner. In fact, we have new regulations in place to make sure that that happens going forward.
Session: Energy Bills
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My party seeks to make a difference to the lives of the people of Wales, but the Secretary of State and I are in agreement for once when it comes to his judgments in relation to the First Minister. It screams hypocrisy, however, because the Tories in the Senedd voted against a Plaid Cymru motion to set a cap on political donations, and his party has still not returned a £10 million donation from a man who made racist and misogynistic remarks. In that spirit of open democracy, will he support a cap on donations to political parties?
Context
The context involves the Tories in the Senedd voting against a Plaid Cymru motion to set a cap on political donations, and their party has not returned a £10 million donation from an individual with controversial remarks.
David Davies
I will not sit here and start making policy on the hoof, but I say to the right hon. Lady—and I think she would agree—that I would not have taken hundreds of thousands of pounds in donations from somebody who had been convicted twice of environmental offences.
Session: Cost of Living
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More than one in four children in Wales lives in poverty. Devolution has the capacity to transform people's lives, but the current First Minister is distracted by questions about his integrity, deleting messages and taking dodgy donations. After 25 years since the start of devolution, does the Secretary of State agree that Governments at both ends of the M4 need to recommit to integrity and transparency?
Context
The current situation involves allegations of integrity issues against the First Minister, including message deletions and questionable donations. This context raises concerns about the commitment to transparency.
David Davies
I can absolutely assure the right hon. Lady that this Government, and the Conservative party, are completely committed to integrity—Labour Members are laughing, but their own First Minister took £200,000 from a convicted criminal—one who had received £400,000 from a bank for which the First Minister is responsible—and told the covid committee that all the messages on his phone had been accidentally deleted by the IT department, but now we see a screenshot in which he urges people to delete their messages so that they cannot be subject to a freedom of information request. I say that the right hon. Lady makes a very good point: let us collapse the coalition and stop supporting the Welsh Labour Government.
Session: Cost of Living
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The Tory leader in the Senedd opposes moves to tackle the effects of excessive numbers of holiday homes in our communities. He goes on about 'anti-tourism and anti-English policies being imposed on the Welsh tourism industry'. Now that the Tory Westminster Government are abolishing tax breaks for holiday lets, would the Secretary of State claim that his Chancellor is anti-tourism?
Context
The question addresses concerns about the impact of holiday homes on communities in Wales, specifically mentioning opposition to an overnight tourism tax proposed by the Welsh Labour Government.
David Davies
I would not. My friend in the Senedd has spoken out repeatedly about the Welsh Labour Government's plans for an overnight tourism tax, which will have a detrimental impact on tourism businesses across Wales. The hon. Lady's party is in partnership with the Welsh Labour Government, and if she really wants to support the Welsh tourism industry, I suggest she tells it that her Members will vote against Welsh Labour's Budget, to prevent that tax from coming in.
Session: Budget 2024 Businesses in Wales
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This Government pledged £1 billion to electrify the north Wales main line. How can the Secretary of State explain that phase 1 goes no further than Llandudno?
Context
The Government pledged £1 billion to electrify the north Wales main line, but details are unclear.
David Davies
The UK Government have already shown a commitment to transport in Wales, spending £390 million on improved rail infrastructure over the last control period. In addition, there has been the south Wales metro, part of a joint-funded growth deal. The Prime Minister was clear about our commitment to the electrification of the north Wales rail line.
Session: Budget 2024 Businesses in Wales
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That is a Brexit fantasy, and now we look at the wonder of the UK. Northern Ireland is set to receive over £3 billion and a fairer funding settlement from the Treasury, which I welcome. That includes millions of pounds to help balance budgets. Meanwhile in Wales, councillors face a budget black hole of £646 million, which is set to decimate our social services over the next three years. These cuts will be devastating for people left without resources during the cost of living crisis. As Wales's man in the Cabinet, what has the Secretary of State done to demand equivalent fair funding for Wales?
Context
Northern Ireland is set to receive over £3 billion and a fairer funding settlement from the Treasury, including millions of pounds to help balance budgets. In contrast, Wales faces a budget black hole of £646 million, which will decimate social services during the cost of living crisis.
David Davies
First, I must point out to the right hon. Lady that, since leaving the European Union, our growth rate has been better than that of Germany, and our manufacturing has now exceeded that of France. As far as fair funding for Wales is concerned, we receive 20% more per head to spend on devolved services than is spent in England. One thing the right hon. Lady and I might agree on is that it is high time the Welsh Labour Government explained why we have longer waiting lists and lower educational standards, despite having more money to spend on devolved services.
Session: Cost of Living
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Diolch yn fawroedd. The Government's own estimates warn that new Brexit border checks will increase the cost of fresh imports by £330 million and worsen food inflation, which sits at an eye-watering 8%. Will he now admit how wrong he was, and recognise that the best way to reduce food inflation would be to rejoin the single market?
Context
The government's own estimates warn that new Brexit border checks will increase the cost of fresh imports by £330 million, worsening food inflation which sits at 8%. Previously dismissed as scare stories, these warnings have now come to light.
David Davies
I make no apologies for rubbishing the scare stories that came out before Brexit took place. We were told that it was going to lead to the collapse of the economy, to the collapse of house prices, to the end of fresh fruit and veg being sold in shops, and even to no more Magnum ice creams. The reality is that none of those scare stories has happened, but it is a bit ironic that the right hon. Lady, the leader of the Plaid Cymru group, is demanding that we rejoin the European Union while at the same time wanting to take Wales out of one of the most successful financial unions.
Session: Cost of Living
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Rhianon Bragg's attacker was convicted of stalking, possessing a firearm and making threats to kill. Only two months ago, the Parole Board decided that his probation release plan could not ensure public protection, yet he will be automatically released next month. I have sent numerous letters to Ministers on this matter but have received not a single reply. Given that the victim lives in a remote area, which makes conventional surveillance methods virtually impossible, will the Secretary of State finally provide a credible response to the urgent safety risks faced by victims such as Rhianon?
Context
The question addresses a specific case of Rhianon Bragg, whose attacker was convicted and is due for automatic release next month. The victim lives in a remote area making surveillance difficult.
Alex Chalk
First, I thank the right hon. Lady for raising this case. The Government introduced extended determinate sentences to better protect the public from dangerous offenders by making their early release dependent on the Parole Board. Offenders on extended determinate sentences must be released but face years of strict supervision with conditions such as exclusion zones and curfews, and they will be returned to prison if breached. I am aware of the letter sent on 14th to my right hon. Friend the Minister of State and he would be happy to meet the right hon. Lady to discuss these points.
Session: Release of Violent Offenders Victim Safety
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What steps his Department is taking to help ensure the safety of victims after violent offenders are released, including the use of tagging, exclusion zones, and the legal entitlement for victims to request protected licence conditions on release?
Context
The question addresses the safety concerns for victims when violent offenders are released from prison under strict licence conditions. The issue includes the use of tagging and exclusion zones to manage risk.
Alex Chalk
Protecting the public is our top priority. Offenders are subject to strict licence conditions on release, which can include tagging and exclusion zones, and they can of course be returned to prison if they breach those conditions. Victims of violent and sexual offenders serving prison sentences of 12 months or more are legally entitled to request protected licence conditions on release, including exclusion zones. The probation service works with partners including the police under the multi-agency public protection arrangements, to closely manage the risk presented by the most serious offenders.
Session: Release of Violent Offenders Victim Safety
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Whose side is the Minister on: Welsh communities or a system that extracts our natural wealth?
Context
The MP discusses a proposed devolved approach to the Crown estate profits and criticises the current system.
James Davies
We have had this discussion before but I would argue that the Crown estate allows sharing risks and opportunities, does a fantastic job, and I simply do not agree with criticism.
Session: Economic Links Wales and the North-west
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Now that the link at Crewe is another casualty, will Ministers urge the Treasury to class HS2 as English-only?
Context
The MP questions the logic behind withholding investment from Wales and argues for reclassification based on recent changes.
James Davies
As the right hon. Lady knows, rail infrastructure is not devolved and investment in Great Britain's rail infrastructure is of value to those in north Wales and rest of Wales; HS2 remains an important connection.
Session: Economic Links Wales and the North-west
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Short sentences for women often do more harm than good, reinforcing trauma and leading to further reoffending. In 73% of cases in 2022, immediate custody sentences for women were less than 12 months. It is anticipated that 1,000 more women will be in prison by 2026. How does the Secretary of State justify the growing female prison population and the use of short sentences, given Wales's ambition to divert as many women as possible away from prison?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the effectiveness of short sentences for women, noting that two-thirds of immediate custody sentences in 2022 were less than 12 months and anticipating a 1,000 increase in the female prison population by 2026.
Damian Hinds
Ministers engage regularly with colleagues in the Welsh Government, including discussions on female offenders and alternatives to custody. Both Governments work closely on delivering the “Women's justice blueprint for Wales” on female offending. The women's population in prison has come down, and sentencing is a matter for the judiciary and not something in which the Government intervene. It is important that suitable alternatives to custody are available, and I join the right hon. Lady in paying tribute to the people running women's centres, for example, which do a fantastic job specifically for women, as well as to the broader set of alternative and community sentence options.
Session: Female Offenders Short Sentences
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Whether he has held recent discussions with the Welsh Government on developing community-based alternatives to imprisonment for female offenders serving short sentences. Short sentences for women often do more harm than good, reinforcing trauma and leading to further reoffending. In 73% of cases in 2022, immediate custody sentences for women were less than 12 months. It is anticipated that 1,000 more women will be in prison by 2026. How does the Secretary of State justify the growing female prison population and the use of short sentences, given Wales's ambition to divert as many women as possible away from prison?
Context
The MP raised concerns about the effectiveness of short sentences for women, noting that two-thirds of immediate custody sentences in 2022 were less than 12 months and anticipating a 1,000 increase in the female prison population by 2026.
Damian Hinds
Ministers engage regularly with colleagues in the Welsh Government, including discussions on female offenders and alternatives to custody. Both Governments work closely on delivering the “Women's justice blueprint for Wales” on female offending. The women's population in prison has come down, and sentencing is a matter for the judiciary and not something in which the Government intervene. It is important that suitable alternatives to custody are available, and I join the right hon. Lady in paying tribute to the people running women's centres, for example, which do a fantastic job specifically for women, as well as to the broader set of alternative and community sentence options.
Session: Female Offenders Short Sentences
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I will take that as a no. Perhaps I can give him another go to prove that Wales gets added value from the Union. English water companies can extract the equivalent of almost 480 Olympic swimming pools of water from Wales every day. Among those companies is Thames Water, which paid over £200 million in dividends over the past five years. Can he explain to households in Wales why the profits gained from extracting our country's natural resources are benefiting profiteers and not our communities?
Context
English water companies extract significant amounts of water from Wales, with some companies paying large dividends.
David Davies
The right hon. Lady will be well aware that the way in which water companies are run is rather more complicated than that. She will also be aware that there is a nationalised water company in Scotland and we have a not-for-profit water company in Wales, and yet in both Wales and Scotland average bills are higher, and so are spills into the rivers—[Interruption.] Mr Speaker, SNP Members can say what they want.
Session: Strength of the Union
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Diolch yn fawro, Lefarydd. One in five people in Wales is facing hunger. On the NHS's 75th birthday, we must break the vicious cycle where poverty fuels hunger and, consequently, poor health. As the Secretary of State is a staunch believer in the power of the Union, I would like to pose him a challenge: would he be willing to stake his support for the Union on its ability to eradicate food poverty in Wales by the end of the Tories' time in office?
Context
One in five people in Wales faces hunger, and the issue is linked to poverty and poor health.
David Davies
I assure the right hon. Lady that my support for the Union is absolute. It is because we are in a powerful Union that we have been able to spend £94 billion on cost of living support, which has meant that pensions, benefits and the minimum wage have all gone up in line with inflation.
Session: Strength of the Union
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Rhianon Bragg has experienced catastrophic failings in the criminal justice system. Will the Secretary of State review this case in full and conduct an audit from a victim's perspective?
Context
Rhianon Bragg, a victim of hostage situation by her ex-partner, has faced multiple errors and omissions in her treatment. A parole hearing is upcoming.
Alex Chalk
I am afraid that I did not get the first part of the right hon. Lady's question, but if she writes to me, I will come back to her.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State support Plaid Cymru's Bill and ensure time for debate?
Context
Tory Brexit has served Wales badly, with powers being taken away from the Senedd.
David Davies
Far from taking powers away from the Welsh Government, the Conservative Government have, on a number of occasions, actually increased powers to the Welsh Government. By leaving the European Union, we have repatriated powers from Brussels, where we were being governed by an unelectable elite, and brought them back to both Westminster and Cardiff. If the right hon. Lady wants to stop money being wasted, she should have a word with her colleagues in Plaid Cymru, who are propping up the Welsh Labour Government as they waste hundreds of millions of pounds in the Betsi Cadwaladr health service, hundreds of millions of pounds on an airport with no planes, and over £100 million on plans for a relief road that will never get built.
Session: Households in Fuel Poverty
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Why will the Secretary of State's Government not do that too?
Context
Food inflation remains high, and supermarkets are making record profits.
David Davies
I have already mentioned some of the help and support that the Government have given to the least well-off. I remind the right hon. Lady that, in addition to pensions and benefits rising in line with inflation, there are payments of £900 to those on benefits, £300 to pensioners and £150 to those in households with disability. Quite frankly, if she is seriously worried about food inflation, she should be talking to her colleagues in the Welsh Labour Government who are propping up the Welsh Labour Government about their ridiculous proposals to ban meal deals, which would make meals even more expensive for people in Wales.
Session: Households in Fuel Poverty
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Thames Water wastes 630 million litres of water every day, planning to move vast volumes from Wales despite the waste issue. Local resources are diverted without recompense or consultation. As Secretary of State for Wales, will he activate section 48 of the Wales Act 2017 so that decisions about Welsh resources are made by the people of Wales?
Context
Thames Water wastes 630 million litres of water daily through leaky pipes and plans to move water from Wales. This practice diverts Welsh resources elsewhere without recompense or consultation with local people.
David Davies
I am not responsible for Thames Water, but regular meetings with Welsh Water have not raised this issue. Welsh Water needs to reduce leakage and sewage in rivers; accountability is the responsibility of the Welsh Labour Government.
Session: Cost of Living
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My constituents Malcolm Atherton and Beth Cluer have had to hibernate their business due to cripplingly high energy bills. Despite employing 62.6% of Welsh workers, small businesses got no additional support with energy bills in the spring Budget. Will the Secretary of State urge his colleagues to increase energy support for these businesses?
Context
Malcolm Atherton and Beth Cluer run a café in Trawsfynydd facing closure due to high energy bills. Small and medium-sized businesses employ 62.6% of Welsh workers but received no additional support from the Chancellor in the spring Budget.
David Davies
The Government have provided an unprecedented package of subsidies worth £18 billion, including a freeze on fuel duty. Supporting businesses through this difficult time remains a priority for the Conservative Government.
Session: Cost of Living
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When will he stop passing responsibility for addressing fuel poverty to Ofgem and start actively supporting vulnerable people?
Context
There are concerns about the effectiveness of current measures to address fuel poverty, including threats of court action and installation of smart meters.
Amanda Solloway
The Government are looking at issues around prepayment meters but have provided £400 of support through vouchers for vulnerable individuals.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why is it not good enough for Wales?
Context
The Prime Minister said Northern Ireland has privileged access to the UK and EU markets, raising questions about Plaid Cymru's policy.
James Davies
Wales voted to leave the EU quite decisively. The right hon. Lady knows that the situation in Northern Ireland is really quite different from that in Wales, and this is a carefully put together deal to accommodate that situation. I feel quite sure that the EU is not in the business of allowing what she suggests.
Session: Digital Connectivity Rural Wales
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Prisons in Wales — [James Gray in the Chair]
29 November 2023
Responding: Edward Argar
Main Concerns
["Dr Robert Jones of the Wales Governance Centre has highlighted that Wales has the highest imprisonment rate in Western Europe, with 177 people imprisoned per 100,000 population as of September this year. The debate underlines issues such as overcrowding, staff retention problems at Berwyn prison, and difficulties for Welsh women prisoners who are often housed far from home, making it hard to maintain family connections and secure housing upon release. Liz Saville-Roberts also mentioned the over-representation of black people in Wales' prisons (3.1% compared to 0.9% of general population) and the connection between incarceration and homelessness."]
Specific Asks
['Saville-Roberts calls for the devolution of probation and youth justice services, along with a complete overhaul of the criminal justice system in Wales to better align it with health, housing, and social policy frameworks. She also requests disaggregated data on the Welsh prison estate from the government.']
Devolution of Justice: Wales
29 November 2022
Responding: Mike Freer
Main Concerns
['Wales has a distinct legal history and faces poor justice outcomes, including the highest imprisonment rates in western Europe. Women prisoners face significant challenges due to distant prisons, while housing policies hinder rehabilitation. The lack of coherent policy making leads to bad outcomes for communities.']
Specific Asks
['The Minister should address funding concerns, provide disaggregated criminal justice data for Wales, and begin regularly publishing such data to inform evidence-based policy.']
Welfare System and Child Poverty: Wales
20 July 2021
Responding: Will Quince
Main Concerns
['Before the pandemic, nearly a quarter of people in Wales were living in poverty, including 200,000 children. Child poverty has risen across most local authorities over the past five years, and one in three children now lives in poverty. The removal of the £20 universal credit uplift will leave many families unable to meet their costs. Poverty is a structural issue exacerbated by devolution complications, with both UK and Welsh Governments failing to address it adequately.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to retain the temporary £20 universal credit uplift permanently and extend it to those on legacy benefits. Additionally, I ask for the Department for Work and Pensions to assess the impact of removing this uplift on child poverty in Wales, as well as to consider further devolution of welfare powers to the Senedd.']
Welsh Rural Economy — [Judith Cummins in the Chair]
22 June 2021
Responding: David Davies
Main Concerns
['The Welsh rural economy is facing significant challenges, including the impact of Brexit and the pandemic on agriculture, tourism, and hospitality. Low wages, youth depopulation, and high second home ownership rates are exacerbating economic inequalities. The gross value added per capita in Welsh rural areas was just £18,000 in 2019, below both the Welsh average (£21,295) and UK average (£29,599). Sixty-eight percent of Welsh rural youths struggle to find work locally. Plaid Cymru-led local authorities are implementing strategies to support business scale-ups and improve transport links and housing access, but competitive UK-wide schemes disadvantage Wales compared to needs-based funding.']
Specific Asks
["The Government should involve the Welsh Government closely in negotiating new trade deals and support Plaid Cymru's proposals to address the second home crisis. They must also provide borrowing and regulatory powers needed for renewable energy projects and a modern electricity transmission network."]
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
14 July 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Immigration and Asylum Bill
13 July 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker has selected the reasoned amendment in the name of the Leader of the Opposition, but no specific opening argument is provided in this excerpt.
Death of Ann Widdecombe
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defence Investment Plan
30 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Prisoner Early Release
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
G7 Summit
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Water Companies
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Equality Act 2010: Code of Practice
01 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson Humble Address: Government Response
01 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
24
PMQs Asked
87
Ministerial Questions Asked
230
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
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 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+552% above average
This MP:
24
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+537% above average
This MP:
87
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+58% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+4651% above average
This MP:
230
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
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 Liz Saville-Roberts's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.