Luke Akehurst
MP for North Durham
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Stanley South has received £20 million of Pride in Place funding as one of 250 most deprived neighbourhoods. Villages like Grange Villa, New Kyo, Avenues area of Chester-le-Street are also deprived but too small to qualify for current funding wave. Will the Prime Minister consider an additional wave targeting smaller areas?
Context
Residents in Stanley, North Durham, are excited about the Pride in Place funding. Other villages and areas need similar investment.
Keir Starmer
Pride in Place investment is meaningful for communities. We are backing with funding, powers to invest in priorities: unleashing jobs, growth and opportunity. Next wave will invest in additional 169 neighbourhoods focusing on smaller areas.
Session: PMQs
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Is the Prime Minister aware that, because of the decision by Reform’s Durham county council to scrap support introduced by Labour in 2013, a typical working family in Stanley will be £170 worse off? How would the Prime Minister contrast the values of this Labour Government with a Reform party dividing our country and hitting working people in their pockets?
Context
Impact of Reform's decision to scrap a Labour-introduced support system in Durham, resulting in working families losing £170.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
The more we see of Reform, the more we see their true colours—in this case, making people £170 worse off. We see their true colours also in relation to the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage). His explanation in recent days, in relation to the stories about what he may have said in the past, is unconvincing to say the least.
Session: PMQs
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In addition to procurement and deployment of counter-UAS equipment, what measures are being taken to train military personnel in these necessary skills?
Context
Recent conflicts have highlighted the importance of effective counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operations, beyond just having the right equipment.
Louise Jones
My hon. Friend is right that as well as ensuring that we purchase the right kit and equipment, we must ensure that we have personnel who are trained and ready to use it, adapting to the new way of warfare.
Session: Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems 2026-07-06
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Can the Minister set out what plans he has to make sure that today's workers—tomorrow's pensioners—enjoy a decent retirement?
Context
The MP inquired about the plans to ensure that workers retiring in 2050 can look forward to comfortable retirements.
Torsten Bell
The Government is taking a two-stage approach: driving up returns on pension savings now and doing longer-term work through the Pensions Commission to ensure tomorrow's pensioners enjoy comfortable retirements. The commission will bring forward its report early next year.
Session: Supporting British Pensioners 2026-06-29
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Sadly, the statement on 26 February did not provide the detail Parliament was promised. The Government of Gibraltar states that the treaty is provisionally due to come into force in July. Will the Minister set out a clear timetable for implementation and confirm when Parliament will have proper time to scrutinise? Will he guarantee scrutiny under the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act before provisional application?
Context
Following a previous statement to the House, the MP notes that there has been no follow-up detail promised. The Government of Gibraltar expects the treaty to come into force in July.
Stephen Doughty
As I set out yesterday, the timetable is not entirely in our control because it relates to EU processes. Mr Speaker, you will know that I brought forward the draft treaty for scrutiny. Briefings were provided to the right hon. Lady and her colleague. We will follow the CRaG process as usual. The House will be kept informed and able to scrutinise appropriately.
Session: Gibraltar UK-EU Treaty
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What steps will the Minister's Department take to ensure that other social landlords across the UK adopt the approach used by Karbon Homes in North Durham? This would greatly improve the quality of life for vulnerable tenants moving into social housing.
Context
Karbon Homes in North Durham provides furnished tenancies for vulnerable low-income tenants, ensuring access to essential furniture and white goods. The question aims to encourage wider adoption of this model by other social landlords.
Matthew Pennycook
We intend to publish comprehensive best practice guidance on furnished tenancies alongside the updated decent homes standard. We will engage with providers and stakeholders during its development, aiming to encourage wider adoption of this model.
Session: Social Homes Furnished Tenancies
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What assessment has been made of the adequacy of the availability of furnished tenancies for social homes? Tenants in North Durham face challenges accessing floor coverings and other essential furniture, which could be addressed through local authority support or by exploring additional measures.
Context
There is a concern regarding the limited availability of furnished tenancies for social homes, especially compared to the private rented sector. The question arises from the need to ensure vulnerable tenants have access to essential furniture and utilities.
Matthew Pennycook
The Government recognise that fewer social rented homes are let as furnished compared to the private sector. In response to last year's decent homes standard consultation, we explored measures to support vulnerable tenants in accessing essential furniture and utilities. Current guidance encourages local authorities to provide such support through existing funds.
Session: Social Homes Furnished Tenancies
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Will the Minister consider developing a clear statutory definition of “hazardous medicinal products” and subsequently mandate the development, publication and ongoing maintenance of a comprehensive UK list of hazardous medicinal products?
Context
The question follows from the initial query and seeks a clearer statutory definition of hazardous medicinal products and the development of a comprehensive UK list of such products.
Stephen Timms
My hon. Friend make an interesting suggestion, and I know there has been some campaigning around this issue. The Health and Safety Executive has not seen evidence that the current arrangements are inadequate. They appear to be robust and well established, and they seem to be doing the job that is needed. If there is evidence of a problem to which my hon. Friend is able to draw attention, the HSE will certainly look at that very seriously. For now, though, the focus is on making sure that NHS trusts and others know their obligations under the current regulations.
Session: Worker Protection Hazardous Medicinal Products
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What steps are being taken to improve the protection of workers against exposure to potentially hazardous medicinal products?
Context
The question arises from concerns over the adequacy of worker protection against hazardous medicinal products in workplaces.
Stephen Timms
The Health and Safety Executive is working to ensure that employers know their duties under COSHH—the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2022, as amended. Those regulations require a risk assessment and the prevention of, or adequate control of, exposure of employees to hazardous medicinal products.
Session: Worker Protection Hazardous Medicinal Products
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County Durham has been home to proud British industries for centuries, but for decades they have been in decline, and communities such as mine in North Durham have paid the price. Our modern industrial strategy will work to fix that. It is going to invest billions in defence, advanced manufacturing and clean power, which are sectors where the north-east has a unique advantage. Can the Minister assure me that our modern industrial strategy will bring jobs, growth and reindustrialisation to my constituency of North Durham?
Context
The MP highlights the long-term decline of manufacturing and engineering industries in County Durham.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Blair McDougall)
Yes, I can assure my hon. Friend of that. The industrial strategy recognises the great strengths of the north-east, for which he is such a strong champion. As part of the North East combined authority, County Durham is benefiting from targeted measures, including at least £30 million from the local innovation partnerships fund and the pilot to develop a resilient electric vehicle supply chain. This will support locally critical components and capabilities backed by DRIVE35. We will shortly set out further detail on our northern growth strategy, building on the commitment to invest up to £45 billion in Northern Powerhouse Rail.
Session: Modern Industrial Strategy
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No matter what unit they served in, veterans in North Durham are particularly concerned about the impact of the new legislation on those who served in the special forces. Can the Secretary of State reassure me that he has met the Special Air Service Regimental Association and is responding to its specific concerns?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of the legislation on veterans in North Durham, particularly those who served in special forces units.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I am very happy to give my hon. Friend that assurance. I did indeed meet the Special Air Service Regimental Association recently, as part of the discussions that I and my colleagues in the Ministry of Defence are having with veterans. We are listening to the concerns being expressed and, as I have said to the House on a number of occasions, we want to ensure that the legislation responds to them.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles Bill
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Will the Minister explain to the House the importance of exercises like Pegasus, and outline how Pegasus has supported this Government’s efforts to improve our national resilience for future pandemics?
Context
Following up on the previous question, the MP seeks to understand the significance of specific exercises like Pegasus and how they contribute to enhancing national resilience for future pandemics.
Dan Jarvis (Minister of State, Cabinet Office)
The Government remain committed to learning the lessons of the covid inquiry to protect and prepare us for the future. In line with the inquiry’s recommendations on pandemic response exercises, Exercise Pegasus has been the largest simulation of a pandemic in UK history, involving Ministers, the devolved Governments and representation from arm’s length bodies. We will communicate the findings and lessons from this exercise in due course, as recommended by the inquiry.
Session: National Resilience Public Consultation
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What steps he is taking to consult the public on his Department’s policies on national resilience. Our evidence gathering included consultation with organisations that represent disproportionately impacted groups to ensure that our approach to resilience reflects the characteristics of the whole of the UK.
Context
The question addresses the need for public engagement in shaping policies related to national resilience. The MP is seeking specific details about how the government will consult the public and what measures are being taken to ensure inclusivity.
Dan Jarvis (Minister of State, Cabinet Office)
The resilience action plan sets out how we will lead a conversation with the public on resilience. Our evidence gathering included consultation with organisations that represent disproportionately impacted groups to ensure that our approach to resilience reflects the characteristics of the whole of the UK.
Session: National Resilience Public Consultation
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Because of our proud history and commitment to the rule of law, the UK is a global leader in legal services, with our courts garnering respect across the world. What does the Lord Chancellor think would be the impact on our reputation should we begin ripping up our international agreements and commitments to the very rule of law that we as a nation helped shape?
Context
The UK's legal services, rule of law and courts are respected globally. There is a concern that ripping up international agreements could impact this reputation.
The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (Mr David Lammy)
Legal services, rule of law and the importance of this jurisdiction bring £47 billion a year into our economy. It is right to seek common cause with countries like Denmark and Italy, but in a steady, progressive way, recognising the importance of the ECHR.
Session: Human Rights Laws
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Two pro-democracy parties in Hong Kong have disbanded recently, activist Joshua Wong was rearrested and faces further charges under the national security law, and Jimmy Lai remains in prison. Does the Minister agree that the national security law continues to be used to erode the rights and freedoms of Hongkongers, and can she confirm that the UK continues to strongly oppose it?
Context
Recent events include the disbanding of pro-democracy parties, the rearrest and further charges against activist Joshua Wong under the national security law, and Jimmy Lai remaining in prison.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Seema Malhotra)
I can absolutely confirm that we continue to oppose the national security law. As outlined in the report that the Foreign Secretary presented to Parliament last week, the Hong Kong authorities continue to apply national security legislation to diminish the city’s political autonomy and political pluralism, including freedom of association, freedom of assembly and freedom of information. Indeed, Hong Kong now ranks 140th out of 180 in the 2025 world press freedom index—entering the red zone for the first time. This is indeed a very serious situation.
Session: Hong Kong Human Rights Violations
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Can the Minister say when the funding might be available to repair the school, after 14 years of Tory neglect?
Context
Sacriston academy, a primary school in the constituency, has ceilings held up by scaffolding joists due to water penetration.
Josh MacAlister
I thank my hon. Friend for his advocacy for his constituents and for the school concerned. A number of schemes are available that may be able to support the school with the situation it faces, and I would be happy to speak to him further about that.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Chancellor outline the impact on economic growth in the north-east of England she expects from the record-breaking £1.85 billion spending package awarded earlier this year for transport infrastructure in the region?
Context
The MP inquires about the expected impact on economic growth from a record-breaking £1.85 billion spending package for transport infrastructure in the region.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
My hon. Friend has been a good advocate for his constituents. He and I, as well as the Labour Mayor Kim McGuinness, know that investing in roads, cycleways and the metro will make a real and practical difference. This builds on the £0.6 billion that the north-east is receiving through the city region sustainable transport settlement, of which £23 million has been earmarked for Durham. Of course, my hon. Friend’s constituents will also benefit from the wider economic benefits of extending the Tyne and Wear metro, linking Washington with Newcastle and Sunderland.
Session: Infrastructure Strategy Economic Growth
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I welcome the leadership displayed by the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary and our commitment to the historic 5% pledge. What steps will NATO take to further strengthen our response to growing Russian aggression?
Context
NATO has committed to increasing national security spending to 5% by 2035 as a response to growing threats.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
The response of NATO has produced results exactly to the contrary of those President Putin would have wanted when he invaded Ukraine three-and-a-half years ago. NATO is now bigger; it is 32 nations strong. The commitment that all 32 nations made in the June summit to increase national security spending to 5% by 2035 is a strong deterrent message to Putin, Russia and other adversaries, and it will make NATO bigger and stronger in order to deter in the years ahead.
Session: NATO Defence Spending Target
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Will the Minister confirm how many residents in my North Durham constituency will benefit from the extension of the warm home discount to all households in receipt of means-tested benefits?
Context
The MP is seeking specific data on the number of households in North Durham that will benefit from the warm home discount scheme extension.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Miatta Fahnbulleh)
Sadly, we do not have data at constituency level, but I can tell my hon. Friend, who is a brilliant champion for his constituency, that around 100,000 extra households in the north-east will benefit from the expansion—an increase of around 50%.
Session: Warm Home Discount
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of extending the warm home discount to all households in receipt of means-tested benefits on people receiving those benefits?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of extending the warm home discount to all households receiving means-tested benefits.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Miatta Fahnbulleh)
We know that households are under huge pressure with the cost of living, and energy costs are a big part of that. The expansion of the warm home discount scheme will mean that nearly 3 million more families will receive vital support with their energy bills this winter. This will provide much-needed help at a time when people desperately need it.
Session: Warm Home Discount
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Is it not the case that our closest allies—the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and even India—have all welcomed this deal, precisely because they recognise the irreplaceable role of Diego Garcia in global security? What does the Minister think is going on with the Opposition, who think they know more about global security than the security services, the White House and the Pentagon?
Context
The Minister has noted that closest allies have welcomed the deal.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
This is important because the future of Diego Garcia is absolutely vital. Having accepted the principle that sovereignty could be secured only by a negotiated settlement—that was the decision taken by the last Government—it is right that we secured a deal, and right that we protect the base for operations for more than 100 years.
Session: UK-Mauritius Chagos Agreement
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What update can the Minister provide on the work the Department is doing with the North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’s child poverty reduction unit to address specific drivers of child poverty in our region?
Context
The issue of child poverty in the north-east has been a significant challenge, and there is an ongoing collaboration between local government and the Department to tackle it.
The Minister for Employment (Alison McGovern)
Child poverty is a significant challenge in the north-east, and Mayor Kim McGuinness has participated actively in early sessions of the child poverty taskforce. The child poverty unit engages regularly with colleagues from the north-east and will hold a dedicated session on strategy with the north-east child poverty commission this week. Mayors have been critical to the development of the strategy.
Session: Child Poverty Taskforce
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Can the Secretary of State reassure forces families in North Durham that the Labour Government are ending the previous Conservative Government’s failed approach of papering over the cracks, and are instead taking action to deliver new, high-quality family homes for our service personnel over the years to come?
Context
The question reflects the commitment made by the Labour Government to address the scandal of forces family homes that was previously papered over.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
I can indeed. My hon. Friend and I stood on a manifesto, on which we were elected as a Government, that committed to ending the scandal of forces family homes. The buy-back that we have put in place is the start of delivering on that promise for armed forces families and delivering, as we are doing on a number of fronts, for defence.
Session: Service Accommodation
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I welcome the fact that the Government are not only protecting the triple lock for every pensioner in the country but tackling the biggest problems for pensioners by uprating pension credit by more than the rate of inflation, encouraging a higher take-up of pension credit and substantially increasing funding for our NHS. Can the Minister tell me how many pensioners in North Durham currently claim pension credit, and how many are entitled to it but do not claim it and could benefit from this increase?
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of the pensions triple lock on pensioners in his constituency. He highlights improvements such as uprating pension credit and increasing NHS funding.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Torsten Bell)
My hon. Friend is right to draw attention to the importance of the 4.1% increase in pension credit that will take place in just a few weeks’ time, and I can tell him that about 3,000 people are claiming pension credit in North Durham.
Session: Pensions Triple Lock North Durham
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What assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the national minimum wage and national living wage on families. The 6.7% increase in the national living wage will clearly show that this Labour Government are on the side of working people in North Durham and across the country, making work pay.
Context
The MP is interested in the number of families expected to benefit from the increase in wages.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Jonathan Reynolds)
Around 140,000 workers in north-east England will feel the benefits of this direct pay rise. I know his North Durham constituency well—I am no stranger to Chester-le-Street—and not only will his constituents get a pay rise, but his local shops, his restaurants, his pubs and more will get what they need most of all: customers who have got a bit of money to spend.
Session: Minimum and Living Wages
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that tackling fraud against the taxpayer is key to setting the country’s finances on a sustainable footing and allowing the investment in public services that my constituents are so desperate to see?
Context
The MP emphasizes the importance of tackling fraud against taxpayers to set the country's finances on a sustainable footing, allowing for necessary investment in public services.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Liz Kendall)
I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend. We have a responsibility and a duty to use every possible measure to ensure that taxpayers’ money is wisely spent, on our schools, hospitals and police and on supporting those who are in genuine need.
Session: Benefit Fraud by Criminal Gangs
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What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to tackle benefit fraud by criminal gangs?
Context
The MP asks about steps to tackle benefit fraud by criminal gangs, which is important for setting the country's finances on a sustainable footing and allowing investment in public services.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Liz Kendall)
Our new Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill will update the Department’s powers to tackle fraud for the first time in more than 14 years. This includes enabling our serious and organised crime investigators to apply for a warrant; enter and search premises for evidence; seize items such as computers and phones; and bring criminal gangs to justice.
Session: Benefit Fraud by Criminal Gangs
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Last week, the Leader of the Opposition dismissed safeguarding measures in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill as a distraction. After the tragic cases of Star Hobson, Arthur Labinjo-Hughes and Sara Sharif, will the Secretary of State remind Opposition Members why those measures are vital if we are to protect children?
Context
After the tragic cases of Star Hobson, Arthur Labinjo-Hughes and Sara Sharif, which raised concerns about child protection measures.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
Opposition Members might not like it, but that is what the Leader of the Opposition said. The Conservatives had 14 years to stop vulnerable children falling through the cracks. Now is the time for action—no more empty words or lessons learned. Labour has brought forward the single biggest piece of child protection legislation in a generation, but the Conservatives refuse to back it.
Session: Child Safeguarding
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Last week, the Leader of the Opposition dismissed safeguarding measures in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill as a distraction. After the tragic cases of Star Hobson, Arthur Labinjo-Hughes and Sara Sharif, will the Secretary of State remind Opposition Members why those measures are vital if we are to protect children?
Context
After the tragic cases of Star Hobson, Arthur Labinjo-Hughes and Sara Sharif, which raised concerns about child protection measures.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
Opposition Members might not like it, but that is what the Leader of the Opposition said. The Conservatives had 14 years to stop vulnerable children falling through the cracks. Now is the time for action—no more empty words or lessons learned. Labour has brought forward the single biggest piece of child protection legislation in a generation, but the Conservatives refuse to back it.
Session: Child Safeguarding
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Does the Minister agree that keeping those services accessible is vital to keeping footfall on our high streets and encouraging other businesses to locate themselves there?
Context
The post office in Chester-le-Street has been operating since 1936 and provides essential services to the local community, impacting footfall on the high street.
Gareth Thomas
I recognise the significance of the post office in my hon. Friend's constituency, as indeed I recognise the significance of post offices in my constituency and across the UK. It is important to maintain access to post office services as they play a crucial role in the high street.
Session: Post Office Closures
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of Post Office closures on high streets? The post office in Chester-le-Street, North Durham, which has served the community since 1936, offers vital services to constituents and is crucial for maintaining footfall and attracting other businesses. Keeping these services accessible is essential.
Context
Concerns over potential post office closures and their effect on local communities, specifically mentioning Chester-le-Street.
Gareth Thomas
No decisions have been taken on the future of any directly managed branches, including in Chester-le-Street. The Government set minimum access criteria to ensure that 99% of the UK population live within 3 miles of a post office. We are determined to work with the Post Office to strengthen the network.
Session: Post Office Closures
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Does my hon. Friend agree that Ukraine's rightful place is with other European democracies in the NATO alliance?
Context
N/A
Stephen Doughty
My hon. Friend will know that the NATO Secretary-General was in London recently alongside President Zelensky, where the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary welcomed them. Our allies have made it clear that Ukraine's future is in NATO and, indeed, in Washington they confirmed that Ukraine is on an irreversible path to NATO membership. We will play a leading role in supporting Ukraine's pathway to membership.
Session: Ukraine
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Patients cannot get access to community mental health nurses, putting huge pressure on GP practices. Will the 8,500 extra mental health staff pledged include much-needed nurses?
Context
Patients are unable to access community mental health nurses, putting pressure on GP practices and leading people to attend A&E.
Stephen Kinnock
We are working with NHS England on deploying those additional 8,500 mental health workers. We are committed to shifting from hospital to community in the mental health sector.
Session: Access to NHS Mental Health Services
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Almost a third of children in the north-east live in poverty. Will the Secretary of State work with our Mayor of the North East, Kim McGuinness, on her excellent regional plans to reduce child poverty?
Context
The question arises from a discussion on regional efforts to combat child poverty, specifically in the north-east region of England.
Liz Kendall
We have already met with Kim McGuinness on 19 September. We will not wait until our strategy is out in the spring to act; nationally, £421 million has been put into the household support fund. Mayors like Kim McGuinness are doing amazing work by working with schools and businesses to ensure families receive benefits.
Session: Child Poverty
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What assessment she has made of trends in the level of child poverty in the last 10 years. The Labour Government lifted 600,000 children out of poverty but under the Conservatives, the number increased by 700,000 to more than 4 million children.
Context
The question follows a discussion on child poverty levels in the UK, highlighting significant fluctuations and current statistics.
Liz Kendall
Under the last Labour Government, 600,000 children were lifted out of poverty. Under the Conservatives, the number increased by 700,000 to more than 4 million children in poverty. The taskforce co-chaired with the Education Secretary aims to urgently address this issue.
Session: Child Poverty
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
UK Air and Missile Defences
27 November 2024
Responding: Maria Eagle
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the inadequacy of UK air and missile defences in light of current global instability. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has demonstrated the critical need for robust air defence systems, with nearly 12,000 missiles launched against Ukraine since February 2022. The House of Lords International Relations and Defence Committee's report highlights significant weaknesses in European defences, stating NATO states can provide less than 5% of the necessary air defence capacity. Recent reports also indicate Russia's use of intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missiles and unidentified unmanned aerial vehicles around RAF bases, underscoring the diverse threat landscape. Two airbases in my constituency, Lakenheath and Mildenhall, were recently targeted by drones. The director general of MI5 has warned about state-backed sabotage from Russia's GRU leading to arson and sabotage on British streets. A proposed Sunnica solar and battery farm near these bases includes vulnerable battery energy storage systems that can cause catastrophic fires if sabotaged."]
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to urgently address the capability gap in air and missile defences by increasing funding and procurement for systems such as Sky Sabre and Sea Viper. Additionally, I call for greater cooperation with European NATO partners on joint procurement initiatives like DIAMOND and European Sky Shield. I request a meeting with the Minister and her officials to discuss privately the risk posed by the proposed Sunnica solar farm near Lakenheath and Mildenhall airbases.']
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Bill - New Clause 116
02 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I propose New Clause 116 to introduce a cap on donations from overseas contributors to political parties and candidates. This measure is necessary to ensure the integrity of our democratic process and...
Defence Investment Plan
30 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Opposition Day
23 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the motion expressing regret over the chaos in Government, particularly regarding the temporary Prime Minister's attendance at the NATO summit. Calls on the Government to spend 3% of GDP on defe...
Reserve Forces and Cadets Act - Schedule 6
22 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I move that the clause be read a Second time. This amendment aims to enhance support for reserve forces and cadet organisations, recognising their significant contribution to community resilience and ...
Security Service Bill - Clause 1 (Designation of a body)
17 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to introduce new section 33A into the National Security Act 2023, enabling the Home Secretary to designate bodies involved in foreign power threat activity. This is essential given...
Defence Investment Plan
10 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Armed Forces Act 2026 - Amendments 2, 3, 4, 88, and 89
02 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Ms. Nusrat Ghani proposes several amendments to the Armed Forces Act 2026 aimed at ensuring continuity of support for children with special educational needs, adoption and fostering arrangements, NHS ...
Backbench Business
23 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Congratulated her colleague on securing the debate and highlighted the crucial role of allied health professionals in delivering the NHS's three shifts, especially in paediatric care. She cited exampl...
Pre-1997 Pensions: Discretionary Increases
19 March 2026
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
Across the country, an estimated 1 million pensioners are losing out on pension increases that they ought to be entitled to because their hard work occurred before April 1997. Before this date, define...
Ministry of Defence
04 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Tan Dhesi, as Chair of the Defence Committee, emphasised the need for long-term strategic investment in defence to counter the increasing military threat from Russia and China. He criticised the UK's ...
Chester-le-Street Post Office
24 March 2025
The petition concerns the potential closure of the Chester-le-Street Post Office, which is vital for local residents in North Durham.
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Chester-le-Street Post Office
30 January 2025
The petition concerns the potential closure of Chester-le-Street Post Office, which has been serving North Durham since 1936 and is vital for local residents.
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Attendance
91.8%
90 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
35
35.7% of votes
No Votes
55
56.1% of votes
Abstentions
8
8.2% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
2
PMQs Asked
33
Ministerial Questions Asked
46
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-45% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+146% above average
This MP:
33
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+847% above average
This MP:
46
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-18% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+33% above average
This MP:
91.8
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 Luke Akehurst's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.