Mark Pawsey
MP for Rugby
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Since I was elected in 2010, Rugby has seen employment grow by nearly 6,000, with 10% more of my constituents in work. Much of that has been driven by investment in advanced manufacturing in places such as Ansty Park, where we have got the Manufacturing Technology Centre, which the Prime Minister visited, the High Temperature Research Centre, Rolls-Royce, Parker Meggitt, Fanuc and the London Electric Vehicle Company. Given that every Labour Government have left office with unemployment higher than when they came in, can the Prime Minister see any reason why anybody would want to put this fantastic progress at risk?
Context
Since Mark Pawsey was elected, employment in Rugby has grown by nearly 6,000 with 10% more of his constituents in work.
Rishi Sunak
On a recent visit, I was pleased to see for myself that my hon. Friend is a great champion for his constituents. I was very pleased to see the thriving local technology and manufacturing industry, which will help us deliver on our ambitions to make the UK a science and technology superpower.
Assessment
Did not directly address employment growth or economic progress mentioned.
He Is Right That We Have A Record 1 Million Fewer Workless Households, And Unemployment Near Record Lows
Session: PMQs
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Welcoming the planning inspector's decision upholding Rugby Council's rejection of Brandon Stadium development, ensuring its future as a sporting venue. What support will the government provide for such venues?
Context
The planning inspector's decision to uphold Rugby Council's rejection of a Brandon Stadium development application. The proposal was for the venue to remain open for motorsport events.
Rishi Sunak
The Government joins in celebrating Britain's history in automotive and motorsports. The decision is seen as enabling speedway and stock car racing to return, supporting the venue's role.
Session: PMQs
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It is a fact that Labour has never left government with unemployment lower than when it came in. Figures released yesterday show that there are now 4 million more people in work than when Labour was last in power. Does the Prime Minister agree that the security of a good job will always be better than Labour's dependency culture?
Context
Figures released yesterday showed that the number of people in employment is now at a record level, with 4 million more employed compared to when Labour was last in power.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to point out Labour's poor record on jobs. Yesterday's figures showed that the UK economy is resilient, with the number of people in employment now at a record level. We are by no means complacent, but the inactivity rate continues to fall and the unemployment rate remains at historically low levels. That is a Conservative Government delivering for our country.
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister will recall his visit to Rugby to see our great work in delivering new homes and the new community of Houlton, where 1,000 of 6,000 homes are now occupied. Regrettably, urgent care services at our local Hospital of St Cross are not keeping pace with growth and, as a consequence, 80,000 of my constituents now live more than 15 minutes' drive from a major A&E unit. Will the Prime Minister return to Rugby to see for himself the need to upgrade our emergency care provision?
Context
The local Hospital of St Cross is not keeping pace with the growing population and many constituents live more than 15 minutes' drive from a major A&E unit.
Rishi Sunak
It is vital that people can access the NHS services they need, and particularly emergency care, which is why we are investing an extra £1 billion of dedicated funding to support urgent and emergency care services. My hon. Friend will know that specific provision is a matter for local NHS commissioners and providers, because plans for those things need to be developed locally and take into account the expanding needs of local populations.
Assessment
The PM acknowledged the issue but did not commit to visiting Rugby or providing specifics on upgrading urgent care services in Rugby.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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Manufacturing remains key in the west midlands, particularly automotive. My constituency has firms in Jaguar Land Rover's supply chain and I ask if the government will support a bid for an electric vehicle battery gigafactory in Coventry to secure investment and grow our EV supply chain.
Context
The UK aims for all new cars sold to be electric by 2030, necessitating a battery manufacturing site. Assembly of EVs is happening elsewhere where batteries are made.
Rishi Sunak
We are committed to securing investment for the electric vehicle supply chain. £350 million of funding was announced for the automotive transformation fund to support development, though I cannot comment on individual commercial negotiations.
Assessment
Did not commit to supporting a specific gigafactory bid in Coventry
Cannot Comment On Individual Commercial Negotiations
Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about the proposal to build a gigafactory at Coventry airport that would support electric vehicle production in line with the Prime Minister's green industrial revolution plans. Will he give his full support?
Context
The Prime Minister's plan for electric vehicles includes ambitious targets and support for manufacturing. Coventry, home of Jaguar Land Rover, is ready to contribute.
Boris Johnson
I have fond memories of visiting my hon. Friend's constituency and using an electric taxi, which was thought impossible 15 years ago but we got it done. We will make sure his constituency and others lead in building new electric vehicles for this country and the world.
Assessment
Did not confirm or deny support for the specific gigafactory proposal
Session: PMQs
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Most of our fabulous independent retailers in Rugby are currently closed due to covid restrictions. While they appreciate the very welcome financial support provided by the Government, they are concerned that supermarkets and multiple retailers continue to sell the same products as them, such as homeware and clothing, enabling them to generate substantial profits while at the same time having had a holiday on the payment of business rates. Does the Prime Minister agree that there should be fairness between retailers, and that with the Government spending £200 billion to support businesses and people in these very tough times, it would be a welcome gesture from multiples who continue to trade to volunteer to pay those retailers' businesses rates?
Context
Independent retailers in Rugby are currently closed due to covid restrictions. They appreciate financial support but are concerned that supermarkets and multiple retailers continue to sell the same products, generating profits without business rates.
Boris Johnson
I understand the point that my hon. Friend makes and the feeling of unfairness that he describes. What we are trying to do with the business rates holiday and all the other measures we have announced is to help all retailers. The best thing we can do is to get through this tough period as well as we possibly can and allow all retailers to reopen and give them our support with our custom. That is what we are aiming for.
Assessment
Voluntary payment of business rates was not addressed, only general measures were mentioned.
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister will remember watching the new electric London taxi being made in my constituency. He will be pleased to hear that the company has this week started production of a van, but this year has been tough for the automotive sector, with manufacturing output at its lowest level for 25 years. It would benefit massively from the certainty of knowing that components and vehicles will be able to move free of tariffs between the UK and countries of the European Union from the new year. Can the Prime Minister provide good news about concluding a deal with the EU to the sector, its workers and their families?
Context
Support for the automotive sector impacted by manufacturing output at its lowest level in 25 years.
Boris Johnson
We are supporting green technology of all kinds, particularly hybrid and battery vehicles, and we have just put another £49 million into grants for exactly the kind of vehicles that he and I have inspected and driven together so that this country can bounce back greener.
Assessment
No specific deal conclusion mentioned, only green technology support
Session: PMQs
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What work is being done to encourage more older workers into the apprenticeship system?
Context
Businesses, particularly in manufacturing, struggle with filling vacancies and often look towards the existing workforce.
Luke Hall
We are delivering local skills improvement plans and working with over 5,000 employers to match workforce needs through skills bootcamps that bring different demographics into training.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Minister will be aware of the successful export order for high-value naval electric propulsion technology manufactured by GE in my Rugby constituency. That order is going to Singapore, and it was achieved with the assistance of the MOD and the Department for Business and Trade. Does that not show that support for this world-leading British technology enables new business in a fast-developing part of the world while providing significant, new, high-value jobs for constituents?
Context
The MP is interested in how MOD support can lead to increased export orders and job creation for constituents.
James Cartlidge
My hon. Friend asks an excellent question. I welcome the valuable contribution of GE in his constituency in supplying high-tech motors, including for Royal Navy ships, such as Type 26 frigates and Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. It is precisely because the Ministry of Defence recognises the importance of GE's Rugby facility that we were pleased to reach an agreement with the company in 2019 to ensure that those motors continued to be manufactured there. Finally, he is right about export. It is such a key part of our new integrated procurement model, because it boosts industrial resilience and prosperity in constituencies such as his, while strengthening international alliances, such as, in this case, with the people of Singapore and the Singapore navy.
Session: Defence Jobs
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What steps his Department is taking to support defence jobs. The Minister will be aware of the successful export order for high-value naval electric propulsion technology manufactured by GE in my Rugby constituency, which has been achieved with the assistance of the MOD and the Department for Business and Trade, showing that support for this world-leading British technology enables new business in a fast-developing part of the world while providing significant, new, high-value jobs for constituents.
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of MOD activities on defence-related employment in his constituency.
James Cartlidge
The most recent estimate shows that the Ministry of Defence supports about 209,000 jobs in industries across the UK. I am pleased to say that this figure will be boosted further by the confirmation last week that BAE Systems will partner with a firm in Australia to build its nuclear-powered submarines. That will support 7,000 additional British jobs across the programme's lifetime.
Session: Defence Jobs
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The cost of the new system could be 10 times higher than under the current system. Will it contribute to food price inflation?
Context
A new EPR system is being brought forward to make brand owners responsible for recycling packaging.
Robbie Moore
We are reviewing EPR and have a dedicated roll-out plan, but we are keen to hear from the industry.
Session: Topical Questions
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Small businesses are crucial to our economy. There are 5.5 million of them, representing over 99% of UK businesses and 61% of private employment. Yet only a fraction of these engage with public procurement processes. Could the Minister elaborate on efforts to encourage more small businesses to participate in tendering?
Context
The question highlights the current low participation of small businesses in public sector tendering, despite their significant role in the economy.
Alex Burghart
The Government is committed to ensuring that SMEs get a larger share of public contracts. The latest figures show UK small businesses received £21 billion, up by £1.7 billion from the previous year and the highest ever recorded, with increases for five consecutive years.
Session: SMEs Public Sector Procurement
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Rugby is one of the fastest growing places in the UK. While we have had additional services introduced at our local Hospital of St Cross, my constituents have insufficient accident and emergency provision. Thousands of local residents have signed my petition for doctor-led accident and emergency care at the Hospital of St Cross. I know it is a matter for the integrated care board, but will the Minister give her support? As a previous Minister, my hon. Friend the Member for Colchester (Will Quince) and the previous Secretary of State have visited in the past few months, and I invite this Minister to do likewise.
Context
The MP asked about the support given by the Minister to address insufficient accident and emergency provision in Rugby, where a petition has gathered thousands of signatures. The previous Ministers have visited the area.
Helen Whately
I thank my hon. Friend for his invitation. He has been a tireless campaigner on this issue on behalf of his constituents. The future of healthcare is about getting people the care that they need, where they need it and when they need it, and Rugby is no different. New local NHS services are bringing care closer to home in his area, such as the new imaging unit at the Hospital of St Cross that opened in September.
Session: Urgent and Emergency Care
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What steps her Department is taking to increase access to urgent and emergency care. There are ongoing issues with waiting times and accessibility, particularly as Rugby experiences rapid population growth.
Context
The MP asked about steps being taken by the government department to improve access to urgent and emergency care services. This is in response to growing concerns over waiting times and accessibility.
Helen Whately
Almost a year ago, we published our urgent and emergency care recovery plan. The NHS has already halved the waiting times for category 2 ambulances and brought down waits in A&E. We are determined to cut NHS waits, and our plan is working.
Session: Urgent and Emergency Care
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The issue extends to university students as well. My constituent's final degree papers were not marked this year because of industrial action. That put in jeopardy her postgraduate course and her employment offer. Her degree was issued only after her mother personally visited the dean of the university involved and demanded action. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to ensure that degree exam papers are marked on time in the current academic year?
Context
A constituent's final degree papers were not marked due to strikes, jeopardizing her postgraduate course and employment offer. The situation was resolved only after direct intervention by the student's mother.
Gillian Keegan
Our young people should never be pawns in the disputes of adults. The behaviour of University and College Union members was disgraceful, and their actions caused untold disruption and stress for thousands of students. Although the higher education sector is independent of Government, the damaging impact of strike action cannot go unchecked. That is why we are consulting on minimum service levels in this sector, unlike the Labour party, which always bows to its union paymasters.
Session: Industrial Action Impact on Children and Parents
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What steps she is taking to help reduce the impact of industrial action by teachers on children and parents?
Context
Teachers' strikes have caused significant disruption, leading to the loss of over 25 million school days last year. Parents and children are facing far-reaching consequences.
Gillian Keegan
Last year's strikes were one of the biggest outbreaks of industrial action in a generation. Over 25 million school days were lost, with far-reaching consequences across our society. We cannot afford a repeat of that disruption, and it is my duty to protect children's education. That is why we are consulting on minimum service levels to end further disruption to education, while providing certainty to parents.
Session: Industrial Action Impact on Children and Parents
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Wilko's business collapse is a consequence of audit process failures, costing jobs and hurting investors. Given the 2019 recommendation by BEIS Committee and promised draft Bill, does the Minister agree that urgent action on audit reform is necessary to prevent such collapses?
Context
Business collapses like Wilko, Carillion, Thomas Cook, and Patisserie Valerie have highlighted the need for audit reform. Previous recommendations and draft Bill commitments from the Government.
Kevin Hollinrake
I was delighted to give the Select Committee evidence on Wilko. The administration report is continuing and clearly we need to see the findings, but investigations so far have not shown that director misconduct played an instrumental part in Wilko's failure.
Session: Audit and Corporate Governance Reform
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At a time when the cost of generating electricity is falling thanks to the increasing use of renewables, my constituents do not understand why the price of electricity remains linked to the price of gas. I know that the Government are undertaking a review of electricity market arrangements. When might they expect to see a change?
Context
The MP is concerned about the linkage between electricity price and gas, especially given the progress in renewable energy adoption.
Graham Stuart
My hon. Friend is quite right to ask that question. We would all like to see gas setting the price of electricity less frequently. That is why we are accelerating the take-up of renewables, which were so pitifully low in quantity when Labour was in power. We need a Conservative Government to keep up progress and lower bills right across the country.
Session: Topical Questions
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What assessment does the Minister have of the effectiveness of pre-recorded evidence in speeding up the justice process? My attention has been drawn to a case where those involved had to wait three years to give evidence. How effective is this new method?
Context
The MP is interested in the effectiveness of pre-recorded evidence in speeding up justice.
Mike Freer
The roll-out of section 28 video recording has been available since November 2020 for victims of sexual and modern slavery offences, particularly important with vulnerable witnesses. However, rolling it out across the whole estate may diminish its impact on speeding up cases.
Session: Criminal Court Case Backlog
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What steps his Department is taking to reduce the backlog of criminal court cases. I am concerned about the delays in criminal proceedings which affect victims, witnesses, and defendants alike. What specific actions are being taken?
Context
The MP is concerned about the backlog of criminal court cases and its impact on justice.
Mike Freer
The Government remain committed to reducing the outstanding case load in the Crown court and are working with partners across the criminal justice system. We have removed the cap on the number of days the Crown court can sit for two years, recruited 1,000 judges this year and another 1,000 last year, extended Nightingale courts, and opened permanent super-courtrooms in Manchester and Loughborough.
Session: Criminal Court Case Backlog
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What is being done to ensure more SEN spaces are made available?
Context
Parents are concerned about the availability of special education needs (SEN) places in their local schools.
Claire Coutinho
We have set out reforms for mainstream provision and are building many free schools with specialist support. There are 127 established since 2010, with 67 in the pipeline.
Session: Topical Questions
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Rugby is one of the largest urban areas within Coventry and Warwickshire without its own A&E provision. With 12,500 homes being delivered between 2016 and 2031, when the population will exceed 135,000, what specific population level triggers local health commissioners to upgrade A&E services at Rugby's Hospital of St Cross?
Context
Rugby, part of Coventry and Warwickshire, has a growing population with no dedicated A&E service. The MP is concerned about the health needs of this rapidly expanding area.
Will Quince
As my hon. Friend knows, the provision of services, including accident and emergency, are a matter for local NHS commissioners and providers. I know that he regularly meets local NHS leaders about this matter and will continue to do so. Funding for Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board has increased to over £1.6 billion this year.
Session: Urgent and Emergency Care Growing Towns
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What assessment has the Department made of the adequacy of urgent and emergency care provision in towns with significant population growth?
Context
The MP is concerned about the adequacy of urgent and emergency care in his constituency, which faces rapid population growth. The question seeks an assessment from the Department on how these areas are coping.
Will Quince
Our recovery plan for urgent and emergency care provides £1 billion of additional funding for NHS capacity, alongside £250 million for capital improvement schemes up and down the country. Local integrated care boards are now responsible for working with their partners to decide how best to use that funding to improve services to meet the health needs of their changing populations.
Session: Urgent and Emergency Care Growing Towns
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There is no point reducing our emissions in the UK if we simply cause them to be produced elsewhere in the world by importing manufactured goods, often from countries where higher emissions may be embodied. A carbon border adjustment mechanism can allow for that, although here in the UK we are behind Europe, which already has a CBAM in place. What progress is being made to develop and implement a CBAM to address the risks of carbon leakage?
Context
Concern about carbon leakage and the need for a CBAM.
Graham Stuart (Minister of State)
On 30 March the Government launched a consultation to explore potential measures on carbon leakage, including a carbon border adjustment mechanism, mandatory product standards and measures to grow the market for low-carbon products. The consultation closes on 22 June and I hope my hon. Friend will consider contributing to it. It is worth noting that full implementation of the EU CBAM will not begin until 2026.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that the Catapult centres in the north-east, as well as the manufacturing technology centre in my constituency, are the way forward in commercialising some of the great ideas that are coming from the academic world?
Context
The Catapult centres and manufacturing technology centre are crucial for commercialising academic ideas.
George Freeman
Yes, I absolutely agree. We have put £1.9 billion into the Catapult network; in the north-east, we have the offshore renewables Catapult in Blyth, the digital Catapult in Sunderland and the satellite applications Catapult in Durham.
Session: Commercialisation of Research North-east England
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The survey found many claimants experienced deterioration in mental health due to the assessment system, despite most appeals being successful. When does the Minister expect improvements in decision making and impact on people's mental health?
Context
A survey by the charity Mind and Censuswide found that 66% of people with a mental health issue discovered their experience of the benefits assessment system made their mental health worse. The majority of negative decisions are overturned at tribunal.
Tom Pursglove
Waiting times for PIP claims have decreased considerably compared to pre-pandemic levels. The Government aims to focus on quality decision making through reforms introduced in the White Paper, aiming at reducing assessment burdens and matching conditions with assessors having right expertise.
Session: Personal Independence Payments Application Process
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What steps has the Department taken to simplify the application process for personal independence payments? My constituent Gary Thacker diagnosed with autism later in life found it difficult to complete his PIP form despite having help. Despite formal methods of assistance, he was unaware of these supports. How is the Department ensuring applicants are aware of available support?
Context
The health transformation programme is modernising the personal independence payment service, including the application process. However, a constituent faced difficulties completing his form despite assistance from friends and organisations like Citizens Advice.
Tom Pursglove
The Department offers support according to ability and need, including referral to visiting officers and forms completion service for vulnerable claimants in exceptional cases. The personal independence payment journey is being digitalised to provide greater signposting within processes and towards other supports eligible for people.
Session: Personal Independence Payments Application Process
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Does the Minister agree that house builders should promote the thermal efficiency of their products given the importance placed by buyers on energy bills?
Context
Residents prioritise energy bill sizes when purchasing new homes, highlighting the importance of thermal efficiency.
Graham Stuart
I entirely agree; this is why we set up the energy efficiency taskforce to work with industry for a transformed situation from 2010, accelerating progress.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Government's new health position papers contain approaches to integrate water, sanitation and hygiene within health programming. Will the Minister commit to progress the implementation of that?
Context
MP noted over half of health centres in least developed countries lack hand-washing facilities. He asked for commitment to progress implementation.
Andrew Mitchell
Yes.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister join me in welcoming the £90,000 grant Futures Unlocked has received?
Context
The charity Futures Unlocked received a £90,000 grant from the national lottery community fund for their work in rehabilitating ex-offenders.
Damian Hinds
Yes, indeed. It really is important work across Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull. I join my hon. Friend in strongly commending John, Laura and the whole team of volunteers. I also very much welcome the news about the grant from the national lottery community fund, which will help Futures Unlocked to extend its support for ex-offenders to lead crime-free lives and help to ensure that communities are safer.
Session: Levels of Reoffending
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of his policies on levels of reoffending?
Context
The question asks about the potential impact of current policies on levels of reoffending.
Damian Hinds
The overall proven reoffending rate has fallen since 2010, from over 31% to less than 25%, but that is still too high, so we are making major investments in drug treatment, accommodation support, education and employment to drive it down further.
Session: Levels of Reoffending
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On-street parking rules in Warwickshire allow internal combustion engine vehicles to park all day near EV chargers. Does the Secretary of State agree this is problematic?
Context
Warwickshire County Council's on-street parking policy may hinder electric vehicle (EV) chargers' effective use.
Michael Gove
I will examine the issue closely, as it seems to hinder effective EV adoption. My hon. Friend identifies an anomaly in the system.
Session: Topical Questions
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In my constituency, Rugby Borough Council recently agreed to review its local plan emphasising the provision of more land for employment to help levelling up and to create jobs and opportunities. What further support and incentives can the Department give local authorities such as Rugby which are seeking to do the right thing and enable our businesses to grow?
Context
Rugby Borough Council has agreed to review its local plan, emphasizing the provision of more land for employment. The question seeks further support and incentives from the Department.
Rachel Maclean
We welcome ambitious local authorities such as Rugby promoting development that helps level up the area. We are creating a new framework to make local plans easier to produce, giving more weight in decision-making so we can create certainty and foster a genuinely plan-led system.
Session: Local Planning Authorities Land for Employment and Industrial Use
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What steps his Department is taking to support the provision of land for employment and industrial use by local planning authorities?
Context
No specific incident or statistic mentioned, but it concerns national policy and local planning authority actions.
Rachel Maclean
National planning policy makes it clear that local plans and decisions should help businesses invest, expand, and create jobs. The department is consulting on how the national planning policy framework could better support these developments, welcoming contributions to this consultation.
Session: Local Planning Authorities Land for Employment and Industrial Use
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Will the Minister agree in principle that the rules and laws of any sport should apply equally to all those who take part?
Context
The RFU is implementing new tackle laws for rugby to make the game safer, but there are concerns about how these will apply at different levels of play.
Stuart Andrew
My hon. Friend has spoken to me on a number of occasions about this issue. As I said to him, these national and international governing bodies are independent of Government, but he raises important points that I will be more than happy to raise in my next meeting with the RFU, and perhaps he and I can have a further discussion about this in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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Mr Speaker, you will know that my constituency is known around the world as the birthplace of the game, where it is played in both codes—both union and league. The game all started in 1823, when a Rugby schoolboy, William Webb Ellis, picked up and ran with the ball at a time when everybody else just kicked it. The bicentenary this year gives both the town and Rugby School the opportunity to celebrate with events and matches on The Close, including one with the parliamentary team from the Commons and the Lords. We are welcoming the Minister for Sport, and we look forward to seeing him at the celebrations with the first pass of the ball, which will be transported to rugby-playing countries around the world.
Context
The MP provided more context about the bicentenary in Rugby, mentioning its significance and planned events.
Michelle Donelan
The Minister is very much looking forward to joining the start of the global pass, which will see 200 passes take a rugby ball through the hands of fans across the globe. The programme of events will give plenty of opportunities for the people of Rugby and beyond to celebrate their role in the history of the sport.
Session: Rugby Football Bicentenary Celebration
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What steps her Department is taking to support the celebration of the bicentenary of rugby football in 2023?
Context
The MP is concerned about the celebration of rugby's bicentenary in his constituency.
Michelle Donelan
The Government are delighted that rugby union is celebrating 200 years in 2023. We are looking forward to working with my hon. Friend to mark that occasion, and I am delighted that the Minister for Sport, my right hon. Friend the Member for Pudsey (Stuart Andrew), plans to join some of those celebrations at Rugby School. Rugby continues to be one of our biggest participation sports, and the very best of the game will be showcased in the men's world cup later this year. We also look forward to supporting the growth of the game, with England hosting the women's world cup in 2025.
Session: Rugby Football Bicentenary Celebration
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What steps his Department is taking to encourage the early provision of infrastructure for residential developments. In Rugby's Houlton project, 6,000 new homes are planned with delays seen in access road and school construction. With 1,000 new homes already on site, primary healthcare facilities are missing due to slow NHS discussions.
Context
The question concerns the steps being taken to ensure infrastructure is provided early in residential development projects, focusing on a case study from Rugby.
Lucy Frazer
Providing the right infrastructure at the right time is really important to communities. That is why, in the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill, we are introducing a new infrastructure levy that will more effectively deliver infrastructure such as schools, GP surgeries and roads. It will also give the ability to a local authority to collect that money earlier. We will be publishing a consultation on the new levy shortly.
Session: Residential Developments Infrastructure Provision
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What steps his Department is taking to encourage the early provision of infrastructure for residential developments? There is no better example than Houlton, Rugby, with 6,000 new homes. Access road went in after just 272 homes, primary school after 79 homes, secondary school after 776 homes. Currently, there are 1,000 new homes on site and the missing infrastructure is a primary healthcare facility. Discussions with local NHS are progressing too slowly.
Context
The question addresses the steps being taken to ensure infrastructure is provided early in residential development projects. It highlights a case study from Rugby where delays were observed.
Lucy Frazer
I am pleased to hear about this successful development and look forward to seeing it. Due to the quasi-judicial role of Ministers in the planning system, I cannot comment on specific planning applications. However, as part of the new infrastructure levy, we are very committed to ensuring that the infrastructure delivery strategies, which councils will have to put together, will make it clearer to communities what will be provided. That should include things such as GP surgeries, which should have the integrated care board's support.
Session: Residential Developments Infrastructure Provision
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GE Power Conversion, which is based in my Rugby constituency, has strong relationships with shipowners and designers who are increasingly choosing to have ships built in China. They see opportunities for offering their expertise in electrification of large vessels, as the maritime sector decarbonises. Will the Minister provide some clarity on the Government's approach to trade with businesses in China and give some indication of the steps that UK exporters need to take to compete with international competitors in that market and to gain full advantage of the opportunities that are available there?
Context
The MP raises the issue of GE Power Conversion's relationship with shipowners in China.
Greg Hands
In successive Government positions, I have always noticed how diverse the businesses are in my hon. Friend's Rugby constituency, right at the very industrial heartland of this country. He is right to raise the matter of trade with China. The UK engages with China. We remain open to Chinese trade and investment, while ensuring that robust protections are in place to safeguard the UK's prosperity, values and security. He raises the issue of GE. We are engaging DIT officials based both in the UK and in China and already engaging with GE.
Session: Trade Barriers
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What steps is the Department taking to reduce barriers to global trade for British businesses?
Context
The MP notes that British businesses face significant barriers to global trade.
Greg Hands
In the past financial year, we have resolved 192 individual trade barriers in over 70 countries. Forty-five of these alone are estimated to be worth around £5 billion to British businesses over the next five years. The Department is working tirelessly to remove the most prominent bilateral trade barriers—work that has the potential to deliver £20 billion-worth of opportunities for businesses across the entire UK.
Session: Trade Barriers
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Will he set out what further steps his Department can take to encourage claimants—those who can—to increase their income by taking on more and better-paid work?
Context
The claimant rate in Rugby is just 2.8%, and employers face workforce challenges due to the taper rate cut.
Guy Opperman
Since April 2022, we have been rolling out the new in-work progression offer, which will support approximately 2.1 million working universal credit claimants to progress into higher-paid work. They will also be supported by progression champions.
Session: Universal Credit Taper Rate
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What steps is the Department taking to encourage that group of pupils back into the classroom?
Context
There has been an increase in persistently absent pupils and home-educated children, often due to a breakdown between parents and schools or issues with special educational needs.
Nick Gibb
Working with headteachers, teachers, and children's social care to help overcome barriers for pupils, including mental health issues and falling behind in studies. £5 billion committed on catch-up programmes and one-to-one tutoring focused on the most affected children.
Session: School Attendance
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What assessment her Department has made of trends in the level of school attendance. Attendance issues are a concern following the pandemic, and there are specific challenges for pupils with special educational needs.
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of the pandemic on school attendance.
Nick Gibb
Attendance in all state-funded schools was 93.6% from September to October. Primary, secondary, and special schools had 94.9%, 92.2%, and 88.1% attendance respectively. The focus is on supporting pupils facing barriers due to the pandemic.
Session: School Attendance
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Will the Minister welcome the work of Bags of Joy and confirm their support?
Context
The question centres on the work done by Bags of Joy in Rugby, which sends aid packages to Ukrainians affected by war.
Leo Docherty
The Minister acknowledges the work done by Bags of Joy, expressing gratitude for Rugby constituents' generosity towards Ukraine.
Session: Ukraine
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What recent assessment has been made of the impact of humanitarian support to Ukraine?
Context
The question pertains to the assessment made on the impact of humanitarian aid provided to Ukraine, following its invasion by Russia.
Leo Docherty
The Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary made their first foreign counterpart calls to President Zelensky and Foreign Minister Kuleba, expressing solidarity at the G7. The UK has provided over £1.5 billion of economic and humanitarian support with aid helping more than one in four Ukrainians.
Session: Ukraine
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I welcome the new Secretary of State to his post. I also welcome the new Ministers and welcome back returning Ministers. I listened carefully to the Secretary of State saying that he wants a compassionate approach, so may I press him further on the point that numerous Members have put to him? He will know that not sticking to the triple lock for pensioners will mean a real-terms cut in their pension of hundreds of pounds. He will know that not inflation-proofing universal credit will mean an average household will lose £450 and that a household with a disabled person in it will lose over £550. Why does he no longer agree with himself when he said, on 4 October, that this is one of those areas where the Government is going to have to think again?
Context
Numerous Members have expressed concern about the triple lock for pensioners being abandoned, leading to real-terms cuts in pensions. Not inflation-proofing universal credit will mean an average household loss of £450 and over £550 for households with disabled individuals.
Mel Stride
I reassure the House that I always agree with myself. That is not the same thing as saying that I am always right, incidentally, but at least I am always consistent in that respect. We will have to wait—sorry, I should say that it is a pleasure to serve opposite the right hon. Gentleman and that I look forward to many months of constructive engagement with him. It is very important that we do not overlook the huge amount that the Government are doing to target assistance at the most vulnerable. In the cost of living support package alone, there is £650 for 8 million of the most vulnerable households, £300 for pensioners on pension credit and £150 for those who have disabilities. That is very important.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Business to Business Selling
19 April 2022
Responding: Lee Rowley
Main Concerns
['The UK economy heavily relies on business-to-business (B2B) selling which employs over 10 million people and contributes £1.7 trillion to the GDP, yet faces a skills shortage with job postings for B2B sellers not adequately filled. The pandemic has exacerbated this issue as traditional sales methods are being replaced by digital technologies. There is also confusion between retail and B2B sales, leading to insufficient statistics collection. SMEs particularly struggle with training staff and adopting new technology.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should promote awareness of B2B selling in education, support on-the-job learning through courses and qualifications funded under the lifetime skills guarantee, reduce bureaucracy for growth hubs supporting SMEs, set targets for digital technology adoption among SMEs, provide financial incentives to encourage training and fund sales courses in growth hubs.']
A5 in the Midlands: Improvements — [Stewart Hosie in the Chair]
23 March 2022
Responding: Trudy Harrison
Main Concerns
['The A5 in the midlands is a vital strategic route connecting London to north Wales and intersects several major motorways, supporting almost 3 million people, 1.3 million jobs, and £22 billion in gross value added annually. The road faces significant growth with plans for 103,000 new homes, 16,000 new jobs, and 524 hectares of employment land over the next 15 to 20 years. However, the A5 has not seen a proportionate increase in funding despite its strategic importance and increasing usage. Without investment, it risks acting as a barrier to growth rather than an enabler.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should bring forward the upgrade of the A5 between junction 1 on the M69 and junction 10 on the M42, which is one of the third road investment strategy pipeline projects. This would help deliver planned growth around the corridor route, support network resilience, ensure greater sustainability and safety, and manage freight impact.']
Licensing of Master Locksmiths
22 September 2021
Responding: Damian Hinds
Main Concerns
['Mr. Pawsey is concerned about the lack of regulation for locksmiths in the UK, highlighting that anyone can call themselves a locksmith without training or vetting. He mentions the soaring number of cases where consumers fall victim to rogue locksmiths who overcharge and provide poor service. Statistics from the Master Locksmiths Association show that two-thirds of its members have been called to repair work done by unaccredited locksmiths, with 65% reporting overcharging customers by £200 or more.']
Specific Asks
['Mr. Pawsey urges the Government to amend the Private Security Industry Act 2001 or introduce new legislation to require all locksmiths to be licensed, suggesting an industry-led scheme similar to the Gas Safe Register for gas plumbers.']
Lord Mandelson: Response to Humble Address Motion
11 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Sub-postmasters Miscarriages of Justice Act (England and Wales) - Clause 1
20 March 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill will quash convictions for those affected by the Post Office Horizon scandal in England and Wales, aiming to right past wrongs by restoring good names automatically upon Royal Assent. It incl...
Post Office Board and Governance
28 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Post Office Horizon: Compensation and Legislation
26 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Road Traffic Deaths: Police Investigations
29 January 2024
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
Mark Pawsey spoke about the importance of police investigations in road traffic deaths, honouring George and Giulietta Galli-Atkinson's work since their daughter Livia’s death. He highlighted the Livi...
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (Implementing) Bill - Opening debate on the CPTPP Implementation Bill
29 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The UK's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership will boost trade flows, benefiting businesses and consumers by reducing tariffs and increasing market ac...
Protecting Steel in the UK
23 January 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Labour party recognises the need to decarbonise steel production but is concerned about the Government's plans which will result in significant job losses and risk leaving the UK without primary s...
Horizon: Compensation and Convictions
08 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Net Zero by 2050
16 October 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
UK Automotive Industry
18 September 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Ms Sarah Jones opened by highlighting the importance of the automotive sector to British manufacturing and criticised the government's lack of a clear industrial strategy, citing loss of output and jo...
Rugby Community Ambulance Station
15 September 2021
The petition concerns the proposed closure of the Rugby Community Ambulance Station by the West Midlands Ambulance Service, which local residents argue is essential for ensuring public safety and heal...
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8
PMQs Asked
84
Ministerial Questions Asked
93
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
1
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+527% above average
This MP:
84
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1814% above average
This MP:
93
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-59% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Mark Pawsey's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.