Luke Evans
MP for Hinckley and Bosworth
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Please could the Prime Minister explain to the House why, if he has done nothing wrong and process has been followed, he needed to force his MPs to vote against an investigation?
Context
No specific event or context was provided beyond the question's premise.
Keir Starmer
No, it's because they can see a baseless allegation and political stunt when they see it. The hon. Gentleman is a former GP, so here is the truth: we have recruited 82 more GPs and upgraded his medical centre.
Assessment
The question about forcing MPs to vote against an investigation was not directly addressed.
Baseless Allegation
Political Stunt
Session: PMQs
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As it is Christmas, will the Prime Minister join me in congratulating Chris Middleton, who wrote a charity song to support Age UK that has already raised £10,000? What is even better is that it is likely to beat the leader of the Lib Dems' single to No. 1 this year, proving yet again that the Lib Dems cannot win—something that I hope we can both agree on.
Context
Chris Middleton wrote a charity song to support Age UK that has already raised £10,000. The song is likely to beat the leader of the Lib Dems' single.
Keir Starmer
I am not going to adjudicate between the contending singles for the top of the charts, but I end this Question Time by wishing a happy Christmas and a peaceful new year to everyone across the House.
Assessment
Did not join in congratulating Chris Middleton or acknowledge his song's success
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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Will the reduction in capital gains tax from 28% to 24% on residential properties apply retrospectively?
Context
The MP noticed a reduction in capital gains tax on residential properties.
Oliver Dowden
I have always believed in having lower taxes that everyone pays.
Assessment
The specific ask about retrospective application was not addressed with concrete details or commitments.
Session: PMQs
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Mr Speaker, 121 MPs from across the House signed my open letter to supermarkets asking to have a “Buy British” button online. I am pleased to announce that last week Morrisons was the first supermarket to implement a “Buy British” tab. This gives consumers the choice to have home-grown produce and also supports our farmers. Will the Prime Minister join my calls to other supermarkets to make the change and follow suit?
Context
121 MPs from across the House signed an open letter to supermarkets asking for a “Buy British” button. Morrisons has implemented this tab.
Rishi Sunak
This Government will always back our farmers, and I welcome the work of my hon. Friend and the National Farmers Union on this issue. We absolutely support calls for industry-led action on this topic, and we will continue to encourage all retailers to showcase the incredible food produced in the United Kingdom.
Assessment
Specific encouragement for other supermarkets
Session: PMQs
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I have been campaigning to improve health facilities in Hinckley since I was elected three years ago. There is significant investment but a day case unit is needed for which the funds exist but are tied up in bureaucracy. Will the Prime Minister look into freeing these funds and would he like to open the unit next year?
Context
Since being elected, the MP has campaigned for better health services in his constituency. A community diagnostic centre received £14 million funding, while improvements are planned at Leicester Royal Infirmary and Glenfield Hospital.
Rishi Sunak
I am pleased with the significant progress made by the CDC in Hinckley since last month. The allocation of NHS funds is determined locally, but I encourage my hon. Friend to continue advocating for a day case unit.
Assessment
Funding release and Prime Minister's attendance at opening were not specifically addressed
Session: PMQs
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Since 2010, violent crime has dropped by 38% and neighbourhood crime has dropped by over 50%, but one crime that has gone up is fraud. Many of us have dealt with constituents who have struggled with fraud. What is the Prime Minister going to do about it?
Context
Since 2010, violent crime has dropped by 38% and neighbourhood crime by over 50%, but fraud cases have risen. Many constituents struggle with the impact of fraud.
Rishi Sunak
Some 40% of all crime is now fraud, damaging people's wellbeing and finances. The Home Secretary and I recently launched a new plan with significant investment, hundreds of new officers, and action on social media companies to tackle fraud.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister change the law to ensure that communities such as Burbage, Barwell, Markfield and Market Bosworth get the infrastructure and protection they need for the houses they require?
Context
Liberal Democrat-run local council in Hinckley and Bosworth does not have an up-to-date local plan, leading to speculative housing pressures.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is right to point out the hypocrisy of the local Liberal Democrats and to highlight the issue locally. The new infrastructure levy gives local areas power to deliver local infrastructure, and having a local plan ensures development happens as desired by communities.
Assessment
Specific ask about changing laws was not addressed.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister will be aware of my campaign to have digitally altered images carry a label. Last week was Mental Health Awareness Week. There are 1.25 million people with eating disorders and 1 million people using steroids. Eighty-four Members of this House from seven parties signed my open letter to companies asking them to pledge not to alter their images in their adverts. Will the Prime Minister support that pledge? For those who do not take that pledge, will he vow to make sure that we consider labelling digitally altered images where body proportions are affected?
Context
There is a campaign to have digitally altered images labelled. Last week was Mental Health Awareness Week, with many people suffering from eating disorders and using steroids.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend for his fantastic campaign. He and I have talked about it at length. Clearly, there is a risk to mental health as young people are given unrealistic expectations about how they should look because of the stuff that they see. His kitemark suggestion is extremely useful, and I will make sure that we follow it up as part of our mental health plan.
Session: PMQs
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My constituency has many attractions such as Twycross zoo and Mallory Park. With the bank holiday coming up, does the Prime Minister have any plans for Bosworth? More importantly, what are the Government doing to support these attractions and domestic tourism this summer?
Context
With the bank holiday weekend approaching, there is a call to support local attractions like Twycross zoo and Mallory Park racecourse.
Boris Johnson
We are supporting local attractions through initiatives like the £56 million welcome back fund and extending VAT cuts for tourism and hospitality until September.
Session: PMQs
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As we come out of lockdown and look to the summer, many people are going to be concerned about their body image. There are 1.25 million people who suffer from eating disorders and 1 million people using steroids, and the number is getting worse. Two weeks ago, the Women and Equalities Committee released a report on body image, which concluded that the use of doctored photos promoting unobtainable or unrepresentative body images was having a 'detrimental' impact. Will the Prime Minister consider all options, including labelling digitally altered images, to help deal with the issues raised on body image?
Context
There are concerns about the impact of doctored photos promoting unobtainable body images, leading to issues such as eating disorders and steroid use.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend raises an important point. He and the whole House are aware of the pressure that young people, in particular, can feel as a result of doctored images. As part of the consultation on the online advertising programme, we will look at what we can do, and I know that we will be responding to the Select Committee's report in due course.
Assessment
The question about labelling digitally altered images was not directly addressed; instead, it referred to a future consultation process.
Brought Up Planned Consultations Without Concrete Commitments
Session: PMQs
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Luke Evans highlighted Twycross Zoo's world-renowned conservation work but noted its financial struggles during the pandemic. He asked for support so that it can continue its important role in caring for endangered species.
Context
Twycross Zoo, along with others like Bristol Zoo, Chester Zoo, and London Zoo, is incurring overheads of £650,000 a month without income due to lockdown. They have requested £100 million from the Government.
The First Secretary of State Dominic Raab
Dominic Raab agreed with Luke Evans about the importance of looking after zoos and announced that a new zoos support fund will be launched soon, alongside Treasury financial support. He urged zoos to contact Defra for tailored assistance.
Session: PMQs
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The question that the public want answered, and the one I asked the former Defence Secretary, is: where is the case? Six weeks on, can the Minister confirm that the deal is now dead, as it should be?
Context
The questioner has previously raised concerns about the treaty and seeks confirmation on its current status.
Uma Kumaran
The hon. Gentleman asks about the payments, but he knows that this is about the long-term safety and national security of the United Kingdom and the British people. Diego Garcia is a key strategic military asset for both the United Kingdom and the United States that has protected our shared security for nearly 60 years. Funding for the treaty will be provided within the existing spending review settlements for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the Ministry of Defence.
Session: UK-Mauritius Chagos Treaty Future Spending 2026-09-01
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Whether his Department has budgeted for future spending on the UK-Mauritius Treaty on the Chagos archipelago.
Context
The UK government inherited a situation where UK control over the Diego Garcia military base was under threat due to the previous agreement. The questioner seeks clarity on future spending.
Uma Kumaran
This Government inherited a situation from the previous Conservative Government where UK control over the vital UK-US military base in Diego Garcia was under threat. Maintaining the long-term operational control and security of the base remains a top priority. A financial element was a crucial part of that deal. Funding for the treaty will be provided within the existing spending review settlements for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the Ministry of Defence.
Session: UK-Mauritius Chagos Treaty Future Spending 2026-09-01
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I am very grateful to you, Mr Speaker, for giving the time. I thank the Minister for his answer, but he did not quite clarify the position. Given the profession is looking at balloting for a plan B for general practice akin to NHS dentistry, will the Minister clarify whether this model is under consideration by the Government?
Context
The question addresses the ongoing debate about the general practice partnership model and the potential for a plan B similar to NHS dentistry. Previously, the Minister had indicated that while there are no specific plans to change the current model, it is under review.
Stephen Kinnock
Well, thank you, Mr Speaker, for giving the hon. Gentleman the opportunity to ask that second question. When we came into office, 61% were satisfied with access to their GPs. That now stands at a stunning 77%. There is no attempt to change the model; there is a partnership model that works, but where it is not working, we look at other options.
Session: General Practice Partnership Model 2026-07-14
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Does the current Health Secretary share the perspective of a previous Health Secretary who expressed intentions to phase out the whole system of GP partners and move towards salaried GPs?
Context
A previous Health Secretary's statement about phasing out the whole system of GP partners has raised questions.
Stephen Kinnock
We remain absolutely committed to the partnership model, but we are also absolutely committed to quality and standards for patient outcomes. It is about delivering the outputs that patients need.
Session: General Practice Partnership Model 2026-07-14
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The Home Secretary is boasting about the fact that hotel asylum seekers' numbers are being reduced, but of course, they are being moved into houses in multiple occupation and the Government will not produce the figures of how many are going into HMOs. This means that places such as Hinckley and Bosworth are getting more HMOs. Will the Government commit to producing the data to show exactly where people are being moved from and to, so that we can see what is happening specifically around HMOs? That has not been released in the quarterly data.
Context
Government is reducing the number of asylum seekers in hotels and moving them into houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), but has not released specific figures.
Alex Norris
I am slightly saddened by the hon. Gentleman's question. He and I had a very good conversation about the nature of the supported population in his constituency, and he knows that we work very closely, under the policy of successive Governments, for full dispersal so that the challenge of supporting the supported population is shared more fairly. Where there have been local disproportionate issues, as in postcodes like his own, we have been able to make positive changes, and I would have hoped he would recognise that. On his original point about data, the May stats release shows a reduction in the hotel population of 35% and an increase—[Interruption.] The hon. Gentleman can do the questions, but he cannot do the answers as well.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-13
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What is the Minister doing to address the issue of recognising and supporting veterans like Clint who suffer from blast-induced or traumatic brain injuries? Will he meet me to discuss how services can be more integrated?
Context
A constituent, Clint, suffered blast-related injuries and is campaigning for recognition and support from the MOD.
Calvin Bailey
Our blast injury support is world leading. We have invested £3.65 million in cutting-edge scanning technology, and we collaborate internationally to drive forward research on blast-induced and traumatic brain injuries. Our work complements wider efforts to ensure no veteran falls through the cracks.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-06
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I am concerned about the clarity of the Chagos deal and its implications for defence spending. Will he confirm that it has been cancelled and that the billions allocated to Mauritius have been redirected to defence?
Context
The new Defence Secretary is addressing his departmental responsibilities in Parliament.
Dan Jarvis
It is a fair question. I am looking very closely at the detail, and I will discuss it with our American allies.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-06
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This month I was delighted to award my community champion award to Afzaal Hussain. After his best friend was stabbed and died in 2021, he set up In This Together Bucks, which has removed more than 1500 knives from the streets while also addressing underlying causes of knife crime through mentoring, mediation and support for families. Will the Secretary of State join me in congratulating Afzaal on his work, and does he agree that organisations such as his in our communities are vital to tackling knife crime?
Context
Afzaal Hussain, a local resident, was awarded for his community work in removing over 1500 knives from streets and addressing underlying causes of knife crime.
Jake Richards
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend's constituent Afzaal Hussain for the work he does alongside Adele Webb. My hon. Friend is absolutely right, it is so important that the Government and wider society work together to do anything we can to reduce knife crime.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-06-30
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One in five homicides are domestic homicides with women overwhelmingly the victims. The Fuller inquiry called for a strengthening of safeguards and law but recent reports from Nottingham hospital described some of the abuses that have taken place—bodies mislabelled or even left decomposing. Does the Secretary of State share my fear this could be a pattern across the system, and will he look into this to ensure it is not?
Context
The Fuller inquiry called for stronger safeguards against domestic homicides. Recent reports from Nottingham hospital detailed abuses, including mislabelled bodies left to decompose.
David Lammy
The hon. Gentleman is entirely right, what we have heard is devastating—absolutely horrific. I will discuss this issue with the Health Secretary as his Department has responsibility for human tissue while our department has responsibility for the coroner service and the law regarding death, and we will work together on this issue.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-06-30
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Will the Chancellor explain why she is now clawing back VAT on the compassionate medicines scheme, which means that this Labour Government are taxing free cancer drugs given to children? Will she reverse that decision?
Context
The Chancellor's decision to claw back VAT on the compassionate medicines scheme has caused concern, affecting free cancer drugs for children.
Dan Tomlinson
I regret to inform the hon. Gentleman that that policy was implemented by his Government—it started under his Government. However, I recognise the challenges that these rules are causing, so today I confirm that the Government will soon bring forward a new approach, consisting of either changes to the VAT rules or a reimbursement scheme.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is not just Conservatives who are raising this issue; it is also patients and the Health Service Journal. Can the Minister commit to a review to find out what has happened to those 350,000 patients?
Context
The MP is concerned about a large number of patients being removed from NHS waiting lists without treatment, questioning the government's transparency.
Karin Smyth
This is an established way of managing waiting lists and we have committed to greater transparency. We will continue providing data, which shows that validation of the lists is standard practice and that figures remain consistent over years.
Session: Waiting Lists Unreported Removals
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Last month, the Health Service Journal reported that the elective waiting list target was met largely because a record number of patients were removed in March. Can the Minister tell how many patients were removed and what happened to them?
Context
The MP is questioning the government's practices regarding patients being removed from NHS waiting lists without receiving treatment.
Karin Smyth
As I have said, patients are referred to a waiting list but then left for years under previous management. We ensure that there is adequate validation of the lists and that patients receive care as needed, often closer to home. Patients are getting the right care in the right place.
Session: Waiting Lists Unreported Removals
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Isn't this about massaging waiting lists, not improving healthcare? Patients never appear on a waiting list under new rules.
Context
The MP criticized the government's approach as focusing on massaging waiting lists rather than improving healthcare.
Stephen Kinnock
We have embedded Advice and Guidance into contracts, providing predictable funding. This strategy moves care from hospitals to community settings, improving overall care delivery.
Session: Access to GPs Bracknell Forest
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Does this mean that patients will be blocked from seeing specialists, potentially assessed by non-doctors, with a target of 25% referrals rejected?
Context
The MP highlighted concerns about patients being blocked from seeing specialists due to the new GP contract.
Stephen Kinnock
We have invested £80 million in Advice and Guidance which has diverted over 1.1 million requests from waiting lists, improving patient care by moving it into community settings rather than hospitals.
Session: Access to GPs Bracknell Forest
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Using NHS Organisation Data Service data, can the Minister tell the House how many pharmacy contracts ceased in England last year?
Context
Concerns raised by Dr Evans about community pharmacies closing due to financial pressures, highlighting the need for better support from the government.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question and congratulate him on the addition of the facial hair. I am glad to see that he is joining that particular club—I think it is the only club we may both be a member of! The Government are aware of the pressure on pharmacy; it is a major challenge that we are facing. We gave pharmacy a 19% uplift in the last spending review. Of all the sectors in my portfolio, that was the one that received the largest uplift. We are also looking to secure better progress with the use of technology, and we are looking at the medicines margin and the dispensing fee, recognising the significant financial pressures that pharmacies are under. Through reform and investment, we believe that we can turn the corner and rebuild pharmacy in our country.
Session: Primary Care in Epping Forest House Building Targets
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The Government insist on forcing through local government reorganisation when there is no agreement in Leicestershire. There are three different plans ahead. One thing that Leicestershire does agree on is no expansion of Leicester city. Will the Minister put that to the test and have a referendum on it, so that the people of Leicestershire can show the Government just how much they do not want the city expansion?
Context
There are conflicting plans in Leicestershire for local government reorganisation, with no agreement on any of them.
Alison McGovern
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his input on the reorganisation. As I mentioned moments ago, we have set out the process that we will undertake. We will consult fully and judge each proposal against the criteria that we have set out.
Session: Topical Questions
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What conversations is the Department having with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to ensure that more solar panels can be installed on commercial properties?
Context
The area has logistics businesses with rooftops suitable for installing solar panels.
Michael Shanks
The hon. Gentleman is right: we should have many, many more solar panels on rooftops. We agree with him on that. I met the UK Warehousing Association recently to look at some of the technical difficulties around ownership and insurance. We want to do whatever we can to unlock the potential, because we have rooftops across the country that can play a huge part in helping us to achieve our clean power mission.
Session: Topical Questions
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I recently met the chief constable of Leicestershire, and he explained some of the red tape his force faces. Between April 2024 and March 2025, it used 14,769 “use of force” forms. Some 6,500 were for people who were complicit and happy to be handcuffed. Each form takes an average of 23 minutes to fill in. If this could be reduced, it would save the force about £50,000. Will the Minister look at this, and will she meet me to discuss some of the other red tape that we could remove?
Context
The chief constable of Leicestershire reported excessive bureaucracy, including use-of-force forms that take 23 minutes each to complete. This inefficiency costs the force £50,000 annually.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
We need to ensure that the police are doing what we need them to be doing, and that they are out on the streets solving crime and not tied up in red tape. That is absolutely certain. The way to be tough on crime is to be smart on crime, and I am happy to look at the hon. Gentleman’s suggestions.
Session: Frontline Policing Bureaucracy
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By not even trying to go to court or argue the case, the Government have cost the taxpayer £30 billion. Does the Minister agree with the Defence Minister who said that the deal represents “good value” for UK taxpayers?
Context
MP notes the UK government's agreement with Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands, which has led to significant financial costs.
Stephen Doughty (Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
As I have explained many times in the House, those figures are completely misleading. The net present value of payments under the treaty is £3.4 billion. The average cost of the deal in today’s money is £101 million per year. That is just a fraction of our Defence budget, and represents a few hours of spending on our NHS. This Government will not scrimp when it comes to the national security of the United Kingdom and our allies.
Session: Chagos Islands
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Do the UK Government believe that the Scottish Government are failing to uphold the law?
Context
Joe Griffin, permanent secretary to the Scottish Government, was unable to provide specific actions when questioned about the Supreme Court ruling.
The Secretary of State for Scotland (Ian Murray)
The application of the Supreme Court ruling to services in Scotland is of course a matter for the Scottish Government, and it is for the Scottish Government to ensure they fully comply with the law as it stands.
Session: For Women Scotland Supreme Court Judgment
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Do the UK Government believe that the Scottish Government are failing to uphold the law?
Context
Joe Griffin, permanent secretary to the Scottish Government, was unable to provide specific actions when questioned about the Supreme Court ruling.
The Secretary of State for Scotland (Ian Murray)
The application of the Supreme Court ruling to services in Scotland is of course a matter for the Scottish Government, and it is for the Scottish Government to ensure they fully comply with the law as it stands.
Session: For Women Scotland Supreme Court Judgment
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What assessment has been made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the Supreme Court judgment in the case of For Women Scotland v. The Scottish Ministers on women in Scotland?
Context
The Supreme Court issued a ruling on April 16, 2025, concerning single-sex spaces under the Equality Act 2010 and its implications for women's rights in Scotland.
The Secretary of State for Scotland (Ian Murray)
The ruling brings clarity and confidence for women and service providers such as hospitals, refuges and sports clubs. Single-sex spaces are protected by law under Labour’s Equality Act 2010, and will always be protected by this Government alongside the rights of the trans community, as was stated by the Supreme Court.
Session: For Women Scotland Supreme Court Judgment
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What assessment has been made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the Supreme Court judgment in the case of For Women Scotland v. The Scottish Ministers on women in Scotland?
Context
The Supreme Court issued a ruling on April 16, 2025, concerning single-sex spaces under the Equality Act 2010 and its implications for women's rights in Scotland.
The Secretary of State for Scotland (Ian Murray)
The ruling brings clarity and confidence for women and service providers such as hospitals, refuges and sports clubs. Single-sex spaces are protected by law under Labour’s Equality Act 2010, and will always be protected by this Government alongside the rights of the trans community, as was stated by the Supreme Court.
Session: For Women Scotland Supreme Court Judgment
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In my constituency, I have Busby, the biggest strawberry and raspberry farm in Leicestershire, which uses the fruit and vegetables aid scheme. The scheme is set to end at the end of 2025. Despite government promises since May to simplify and rationalise agriculture grants, Busby still does not know what its future funding will look like six months before closure. What will replace the scheme so that Busby can continue growing high-quality strawberries and raspberries?
Context
The fruit and vegetables aid scheme, an EU legacy scheme, is set to close in England on January 1, 2026. Only 20% of growers are benefiting from it due to its requirement for producer organisations.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
While it has been known that this EU-based scheme would come to an end, I acknowledge its importance for fruit-growing sectors. However, the scheme did not provide good value for money. We are working on a new food strategy which will include replacements and announcements about these changes are coming down the line. But I am surprised by the hon. Gentleman's eagerness to preserve an EU-based scheme, suggesting he may still be hankering for EU membership.
Session: Fruit and Vegetables Aid Scheme
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By the same logic that led to the establishment of a Women's Minister, is it time for a Minister dedicated to addressing specific problems facing men and boys, including health outcomes, unemployment, and education?
Context
The logic behind having a Women’s Minister was the idea that women present unique challenges in society. By similar reasoning, men and boys may also have distinct issues such as higher suicide rates and lower educational attainment.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
The hon. Gentleman raises important areas of concern including health outcomes, suicide rates, educational attainment and the need to better support boys, young men and men throughout their lives. However, ministerial appointments are a matter for the Prime Minister.
Session: Educational Outcomes for Boys
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I am pleased to hear about the Minister’s support for Pharmacy First but why has he decided to cap the number of consultations that a pharmacist may do? Once pharmacists hit this cap, they are no longer paid £17 per consultation. This could turn patients away or force pharmacists to pay themselves, creating extra costs in other areas of primary care.
Context
The question is prompted by the Government's decision to cap consultations in Pharmacy First, a system introduced by the previous government.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
Regarding Pharmacy First, we are working to ensure that financial arrangements incentivise pharmacists effectively. Given past issues with incentives set up under the previous government, those need adjustment. The goal is to make Pharmacy First work and free up primary care pressure.
Session: Pharmacies
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I am grateful to the Minister for his answer. I draw his attention to the process for getting some of that funding. Battling Brook is a small primary school in the heart of Hinckley. It has problems with damp classrooms falling into disrepair, making them unusable. The school applied to the condition improvement fund but was declined due to delays in data collection, marking it down and denying needed funding. Will the Minister look at this case and meet me so I can ensure Battling Brook receives the necessary funding?
Context
A primary school in Hinckley, Battling Brook, has faced issues with damp classrooms leading to their closure. The school applied for funding through the condition improvement fund but was denied due to delays in data collection.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Stephen Morgan)
The hon. Member has not been shy in lobbying me on these issues, but I would be very happy to meet him again. He will know that the Department provides advice and support on a case-by-case basis, and I am happy to discuss these issues with him further.
Session: School Estate
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I am grateful to the Secretary of State for his answer, but there seem to be wildly different interpretations of what the deal means for Northern Ireland. Will he clarify what it means for imports and exports in the light of the impact of EU tariffs? Was that explicitly discussed at the EU-UK summit?
Context
There are different interpretations of the US-UK trade deal's implications for Northern Ireland, especially concerning EU tariffs.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
The hon. Gentleman is right to point out that EU retaliatory tariffs directed at the USA would have an impact in Northern Ireland, because of its dual-market access. I can write to him with further details of how precisely that would work. It depends partly on whether there is less or more than a 3% difference between the tariff in the EU and the tariff that applies in the UK.
Session: US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal Northern Ireland
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This Government have been in power for 10 months. Two months ago, Labour postponed the cross-party talks on social care. When will they be rescheduled? I thank the Secretary of State for that change, making the process no longer cross-party. The Government have said that the changes will not be implemented fully until 2036. Only this week, the Health and Social Care Committee released its new report on social care and the huge cost of inaction. The report called for new actions that could be taken now, such as the publishing of annual assessments of unmet care needs for adults, and annual estimates of how much delayed discharges cost the NHS. Will the Secretary of State commit to those two today?
Context
The Health and Social Care Committee released a report calling for new actions to address unmet care needs and delayed discharges.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
I take the Select Committee seriously, and I will look carefully at its report.
Session: Health and Social Care Reform
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This Government have been in power for 10 months. Two months ago, Labour postponed the cross-party talks on social care. When will they be rescheduled?
Context
The cross-party talks on social care had been postponed by Labour.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
As I have announced to the House, Baroness Casey’s independent commission is up and running. She is making contact with parties across the House as part of the work of her commission, and it is for her to decide the basis on which she engages with parties.
Session: Health and Social Care Reform
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When it comes to bills, the public understand what unit costs are, but not what standing charges are. When I raised this with the previous Government and Ofcom, they said that it was a complex matter, but what I am asking for is transparency, so that people understand how the charge is made up, and can then make a judgment on what it looks like. Will the Government commit to asking Ofgem to ensure that that information is included in the billing, so that we can see the breakdown of costs—how much is going on human resources and how much is going on the actual infrastructure and wires—so we know exactly what is going on in the energy market?
Context
Dr Evans questioned the transparency regarding standing charges in energy bills, noting that many consumers feel let down by a broken energy system.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Miatta Fahnbulleh)
We support transparency. Ofgem publishes the breakdown of all costs within bills, but there is more that we need to do to ensure that consumers understand what is going on. Critically for us, we know that consumers are very frustrated about the standing charges, which is why we are committed to lowering them. As I have said, a consultation is under way around what we do with standing charges, which includes introducing a zero-standing-charge tariff. Within that, we will be considering options to increase transparency.
Session: Domestic Energy Bills Transparency
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Now that the Secretary of State is abolishing NHS England, will he listen to calls from NPA for immediate publication of an independent report commissioned by NHS England on pharmacy finances? What contingency plans does the Department have to ensure patients remain safe if pharmacies close due to industrial action?
Context
The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) is advising its pharmacy members to reduce services and hours due to financial pressures, leading to concerns about potential patient safety if pharmacies close their doors in industrial action.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
We will publish the economic analysis imminently. We have engaged constructively with CPE, and I am delighted to confirm that we will soon announce the outcome of our negotiations. The NPA's collective action is premature and detrimental to patients. They should wait for the outcome of our discussions. We are taking industrial relations into the 21st century.
Session: Community Pharmacy
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Before 2021, less than 1% of seized substances contained anabolic steroids. In 2023, it was 10%, with anabolic steroids being the third most prevalent drug class detected in Scottish prisons. Will the Lord Chancellor meet me and Dr Jayasena and Dr Grant, who are national leads on the topic from Imperial College, to look at conducting research into the impact of steroids on offending and the prison population?
Context
Less than 1% of seized substances contained anabolic steroids before 2021, but by 2023, it was 10%, making them the third most prevalent drug class detected in Scottish prisons. This trend highlights a significant increase in steroid usage.
Shabana Mahmood (Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice)
I pay tribute to the hon. Member for his long record of campaigning on this particular issue. It is an important point, and I will ensure that he can meet the Prisons Minister and look at what further research might be needed in this area.
Session: Prisons Illegal Drug Use
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The Labour Government’s elective reform plan mentions 10 straight-to-test pathways. Can the Secretary of State name them or give one example?
Context
The Conservative MP highlights an article in The BMJ criticising one of the examples given in the Government’s elective reform plan, arguing it was inappropriate.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
It is ridiculous to criticise this Government’s elective reform plan. When the Conservative party was in office, it delivered the longest waiting lists in NHS history. I am happy to admit that a case study featuring Sarah's unnecessary radiation treatment was removed from all online and future drafts after GPs pointed out its inappropriate nature.
Session: Elective Care Waiting Times
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What assessment has she made of the implications for her policies of recent trends in the level of interest on Government debt?
Context
MP raised concerns about the cost of servicing government debt and its impact on people and businesses.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
We inherited a high amount of debt from the previous Government, and we have to pay interest costs on that debt. The forecast I set out in the Budget in October showed that debt falling to a sustainable level. As I said, the OBR forecast will be published on 26 March, and I will make a statement at that time.
Session: Servicing Government Debt
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There are growing storm clouds in rugby union. At the grassroots, clubs are up in arms about what is going on in the leadership. They called for a general meeting, which was denied. One has now been agreed and will happen in March. When asked in writing whether there will be a review of the finances or governance of the Rugby Football Union, the Government said that there are no plans for one. In the light of what I have set out, will they reconsider whether there should be a review of the governance, and do they have confidence that the RFU will be able to solve this issue?
Context
The MP describes growing concerns in rugby union, particularly at the grassroots level, where clubs are unhappy with the leadership. They have called for a general meeting but it was denied initially and will now take place in March.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
Of course, Mr Speaker; we would not forget that. I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for raising that incredibly important point. National governing bodies are of course independent of Government, and it is for the RFU to answer for its approach. The DCMS notes that the chair of the RFU stood down recently. The Secretary of State and I meet regularly with rugby stakeholders, and will continue to do so.
Session: Grassroots Sports
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GPs use advice and guidance when they have come to the summit of their knowledge and need specialist input, such as asking a rheumatologist for blood tests after seeing a rheumatology patient. The problem is that the GP is legally responsible for those blood tests and has to pay for them out of the primary care budget. Will the £20 payment cover subsequent follow-ups and the cost of suggested tests? Given the expansion of advice and guidance, will the Government be looking at a legal framework change in accountability?
Context
The British Medical Association is advising GPs to stop engaging with the e-Referral Advice & Guidance pathway. Dr Evans raises concerns about the current legal framework's accountability for clinicians making requests for specialist advice.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
We are looking at giving GPs the tools to do the job in managing more patients in the community. The Government is committed to reform, and my hon. Friend the Minister for Care will be talking to the BMA shortly in the context of contract negotiations.
Session: Access to Primary Care
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister meet me and my constituent Joseph Barsby to further discuss how we can bring forward a compassionate yet high-standard approach in the funeral sector?
Context
The question follows previous correspondence about the funeral director sector. The constituent Joseph Barsby runs G. Seller, an independent funeral directors business.
Alex Davies-Jones
As the hon. Gentleman knows, most funeral directors treat people respectfully. There are serious issues of concern in the sector. The Government are considering next steps and would be happy for him to join a meeting with sector directors when it takes place.
Session: Legislation on Funerals
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What assessment has been made of the adequacy of legislation on funerals given that there are serious concerns in the funeral director sector and the need for an updated legal framework?
Context
The funeral director sector faces serious concerns, with legislation governing post-death procedures considered outdated. Previous correspondence mentioned the Fuller inquiry's phase 2 interim report.
Alex Davies-Jones
The Government recognise serious concerns about the funeral director sector. They are considering appropriate standards, including regulation, and have asked the Law Commission to create a future-proof legal framework for what happens after death.
Session: Legislation on Funerals
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In September the Government released statistics showing that one in five pension credit claims were not being processed within 50 days, and I raised that in a written parliamentary question, No. 5385. Part of the answer stated: “The department has secured funding for additional staffing to improve processing times.” Two months later, data has been released showing that the processing of one in four pension credit claims is now taking longer than 50 days. How much funding was given, will more be provided to try to move this forward, and what conversations is the Minister having with the Department for Work and Pensions to ensure that the funding is spent properly, given that it is taxpayers' money?
Context
In September, statistics showed that one in five pension credit claims were not processed within 50 days. The questioner raised concerns about the effectiveness of the additional funding allocated to improve processing times.
Emma Reynolds
I am a Minister in both the Treasury and the DWP, so I have conversations with officials about this all the time. We are absolutely determined that those who are eligible for pension credit should be aware that they can apply for it, given our big campaign to raise awareness—only last week we launched a TV campaign on the issue. We have also deployed an additional 500 staff to process those pension credit claims. Thanks to our campaign there has been a 145% increase in the number of claims, which is why the processing is taking a little longer, but we are absolutely focused on speeding it up and ensuring that those who are eligible receive the help they need.
Session: Support for Pensioners
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Minister for Men and Boys — [DEREK TWIGG in the Chair]
25 February 2026
Responding: Olivia Bailey
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the significant issues facing boys and men, including a higher suicide rate among men under 50, more frequent drug abuse, worse educational outcomes, higher unemployment rates, and overrepresentation in prison. The data shows that men are falling behind in various aspects of life compared to women, which is exacerbated by a lack of clear role models and positive cultural representation.']
Specific Asks
["I ask the Government to consider appointing a Minister for Men and Boys to address these cross-departmental issues and improve outcomes for boys and men across health, education, employment, justice, and culture. Specifically, I want to know why we have a women's minister but not one for men."]
Neighbourhood Plans: Planning Decisions
09 July 2025
Responding: Alex Norris
Main Concerns
["When Dr Luke Evans entered Parliament, he did not expect to lead on planning issues but found it important due to frequent concerns raised by his constituents. He highlighted the national context of neighbourhood plans and their roles, noting that despite a pledge from both Conservatives and Labour for more houses, the actual figures fall short. Specifically, Hinckley and Bosworth’s housing target needs to rise by 59% with no infrastructure support, while Leicester city's drops by 31%. The planning system feels like it is done to people rather than with them."]
Specific Asks
['Dr Evans asks the Government to explain their decision on changing housing targets and to restore funding for neighbourhood plans which allow local communities a say in what happens around them, ensuring that the process is fair and inclusive.']
Royal British Legion
01 April 2025
Responding: Al Carns
Main Concerns
['The Royal British Legion has been providing critical support to veterans and their families for over a century, including financial aid, legal representation, and well-being services. The organisation has awarded over £18 million in grants and secured £39 million in war pension awards in the past year alone.']
Specific Asks
["The MP asks for continued recognition of the Royal British Legion's work, especially its role in educating younger generations about the sacrifices made during world wars and more recent conflicts such as Korea, the Falklands, Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, and Afghanistan."]
Performance-enhancing Drugs and Body Image — [David Mundell in the Chair]
21 February 2023
Responding: Neil O'Brien
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the lack of discussion around anabolic steroids and image and performance-enhancing drugs, or IPEDs, in the UK. There are estimated to be between 500,000 and 1 million users, but no one is talking about it. The Priory Group estimates that 500,000 people are now using steroids compared to their estimate of around 50,000 a decade ago, saying 'we are sleepwalking into a health crisis'."]
Specific Asks
['The debate should address the rising number of steroid users and discuss how we can prevent this from becoming a public health issue.']
Neighbourhood Plans — [Ms Nusrat Ghani in the Chair]
07 June 2022
Responding: Stuart Andrew
Main Concerns
['Mr Luke Evans is concerned about the lack of an up-to-date local plan in his constituency, leading to piecemeal development and infrastructure issues. He highlights that without a local plan, there are no protections for communities against inappropriate development. Additionally, he mentions the need for houses that families can aspire to and elderly downsizing options.']
Specific Asks
["Mr Evans asks for clarification on how neighbourhood plans will be implemented when an up-to-date local plan is not in place, and seeks the Minister's response on the future of neighbourhood plans under the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill."]
Summer Health and Resilience
09 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran
15 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker highlighted the critical situation in Iran, noting Britain’s armed forces' commendable work. He mentioned recent US strikes against Iranian targets, stressing the need for a diplomatic sol...
Department of Health and Social Care
30 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate highlights the lack of transparency in the NHS estimates and the impact of the UK-US pharmaceutical deal, which includes raising NICE cost-effectiveness thresholds from £20,000 to £35,000 p...
Defence Investment Plan
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Murder of Henry Nowak
02 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson Humble Address: Government Response
01 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Health and Social Care Bill
01 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, James Murray, moved the Second Reading of the Health and Social Care Bill. He emphasised the personal significance of the NHS in his life due to a ra...
Attendance
79.6%
78 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
45
45.9% of votes
No Votes
33
33.7% of votes
Abstentions
20
20.4% 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 AYE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 NO
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
11
PMQs Asked
187
Ministerial Questions Asked
272
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
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
+200% above average
This MP:
11
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+1295% above average
This MP:
187
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+5497% above average
This MP:
272
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+15% above average
This MP:
79.6
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 Evans's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.