Martin Vickers
MP for Brigg and Immingham
Con
6 May 2010 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Lindsey oil refinery is under threat of closure with hundreds of job losses at stake. Given there are several expressions of interest from potential buyers interested in acquiring the whole site, can you provide an assurance that the Government will support and facilitate a continuation of operations at the refinery if one of these interested parties passes due diligence?
Context
The Lindsey oil refinery in the hon. Member's constituency faces potential closure, threatening hundreds of jobs. Expressions of interest for taking over the site have been shown.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr David Lammy)
I cannot give an assurance from the Dispatch Box, but I will ensure that the relevant Minister meets my hon. Friend to discuss this matter further.
Assessment
Cannot provide a direct assurance without due diligence process completion.
Session: PMQs
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My constituents in rural villages and on the fringes of the Grimsby-Cleethorpes urban area are very concerned about overdevelopment. They recognise that highway infra- structure and public services are already overloaded. Could my right hon. Friend consider amending planning guidance, so that local plans and decisions taken by local planning authorities are not overridden by planning inspectors? They would be greatly encouraged if he would agree to meet me and my colleagues from neighbouring constituencies, my right hon. Friend the Member for Gainsborough (Sir Edward Leigh) and my hon. Friend the Member for Great Grimsby (Lia Nici), to discuss this further.
Context
Villages in the constituency are worried about overdevelopment due to overloaded highway infrastructure and public services. Local plans and decisions made by local planning authorities are being overridden by planning inspectors.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is right that sustainable development must be at the heart of the planning system. That is why we are committed to meeting housing needs by building the right homes in the right places, and protecting the environmental assets that matter most. The national planning policy framework is clear that we should be responsive to local circumstances.
Assessment
Specific request to amend planning guidance was not directly addressed
Sustainable Development Must Be At The Heart Of The Planning System
Commitment To Building Homes In Right Places
Session: PMQs
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Following funding reallocation from HS2, will the Prime Minister consider boosting local economy through improved access to Humber freeport by dualling the A15 between Lincoln and A180?
Context
Funding reallocated from HS2 to support regional transport projects in northern Lincolnshire, including the A15 dual carriageway and resurfacing of the A180.
Rishi Sunak
The North East Lincolnshire will benefit from a new £2.5 billion fund to support local transport connections, including possibly some of those mentioned.
Assessment
The specific ask for the A15 dual carriageway was not directly addressed.
Supporting Funding Through A New Scheme
Session: PMQs
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My constituents, Adrian and Carol Ellis, are here today. Their son George was in the Yorkshire Regiment and died by suicide after losing a comrade. In his memory, they started 'Getting Emotions Out', pairing veterans for support. Will the Prime Minister offer condolences to Adrian and Carol and support their work?
Context
Two constituents have set up a support group for veterans to help them cope with mental health issues following their son's suicide.
Rishi Sunak
I join my hon. Friend in sending our condolences and supporting the work of George's parents to raise awareness about veterans' mental health. The government is working on Op Courage for veteran mental health support, with increased funding.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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This week is UK Wind Week, and later this afternoon I will be welcoming some young people from my constituency who see their futures in the renewable energy sector that has done so much to level up the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and north-east Lincolnshire area. Will the Prime Minister give an assurance that the Government will continue to invest in the skills and development of our young people in order to benefit the renewable energy sector?
Context
This week is UK Wind Week, with young people from Grimsby, Cleethorpes and north-east Lincolnshire seeing their futures in the renewable energy sector.
Boris Johnson
Yes, and I think the whole House should be proud of the fact that the UK still produces more offshore wind—[Interruption.] Not hot air, but energy for the people of this country. It is clean, green energy produced off Cleethorpes in the North sea, and we are going to be massively increasing the volume of that output.
Assessment
specific ask about assurance of continued investment
Session: PMQs
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I welcome the Government's commitment to establish freeports. The port of Immingham in my constituency is, by tonnage, the largest port in the country. Does the Prime Minister agree that it would be somewhat remiss to not include Immingham in the freeport programme?
Context
The port of Immingham is the largest by tonnage in the UK. The government has committed to establishing freeports.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend for his campaign for Immingham. It is registered, but my hon. Friend should know that he is one of the most successful campaigners in this House already this year, because the new bridge that he asked for at Suggitts Lane crossing is going to be completed between the summer and the autumn of next year.
Assessment
Did not address whether Immingham will be included in the freeport programme
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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The Under-Secretary of State for Transport will be visiting Immingham this afternoon. Does he agree that his journey would be much more convenient if there were a direct train service from King's Cross to my constituency, and will he join my campaign to ensure that happens?
Context
The Under-Secretary of State will be visiting Immingham later. The questioner asks if he agrees that his journey would be more convenient with a direct train service and encourages him to join the campaign.
Keir Mather
The hon. Gentleman is a dogged campaigner for providing that rail link and I will report back to him about the quality of my journey. I am excited for the steel signing ceremony ahead of the opening of the new eastern roll-on roll-off terminal at the port of Immingham, which I understand the hon. Gentleman has been a passionate champion of.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-16
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I recently visited Grimsby jobcentre and met Nick Gregory and Jo Corney, two excellent officials. One piece of information they gave me was about the opening of a youth hub in Scunthorpe, which will serve many parts of my constituency, but many of the young people who go will be from rural areas. What new initiatives are the Government planning to help provide work for young people in rural areas?
Context
Grimsby jobcentre opened a youth hub, serving many parts of the constituency but also attracting young people from rural areas.
Diana R. Johnson
We are looking at whether we can use buses to get mobile youth hubs out to rural areas, so perhaps that is a conversation we can carry on outside to see what we can do.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-06-29
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Last month, along with other members of the all-party parliamentary group on Gibraltar, I visited the Rock in order to assess responses to the proposed treaty at first hand. Will the Minister give us an update? When does he anticipate that the treaty will be finalised?
Context
The all-party parliamentary group on Gibraltar visited the Rock to assess responses to the proposed treaty.
Stephen Doughty
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his consistent advocacy on Gibraltar. We are committed to finalising this treaty imminently. The draft treaty text is undergoing its final legal checks, and as he will know, a draft was previously deposited in the House with a summary on 26 February. We look forward to signature imminently, and the provisional application is expected on 15 July.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last Saturday, I met representatives from a number of well-established hospitality businesses in my constituency, one of whom is facing an energy cost increase of £70,000 this year. That is clearly unsustainable. What are Ministers doing to prevent unchecked energy increases from happening year on year?
Context
The MP met representatives from well-established hospitality businesses facing significant energy cost increases. He asked about measures to prevent such increases.
Chris McDonald
As I mentioned in answer to an earlier question, we are concerned about the role of third-party intermediaries and the proper functioning of the market, and, subject to finding parliamentary time, we intend to bring forward the opportunity for Ofgem to act as a regulator in that regard.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister look sympathetically on the open access application for a service to Grimsby given all our pleading?
Context
The hon. Member is pleading with Ministers for a train service to Grimsby, an open access application from Grand Central Rail exists but LNER's state ownership hasn't resolved the issue.
Keir Mather
Although I might not have too much more to add on LNER services, the hon. Member will know that open access decisions are a matter for the operationally independent Office of Rail and Road.
Session: Passenger Rail Services
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How does she expect to maintain confidence in the judicial process with such widespread opposition?
Context
Growing resentment and lack of confidence in the judicial process against widespread opposition.
Ellie Reeves
Let me say something about confidence. Victims are waiting three years, in some cases, for their rape case to get to court because of the backlogs we inherited from the last Conservative Government—that is not confidence in the justice system. That is why these reforms are necessary.
Session: Courts and Tribunals Bill
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Since part of Grimsby falls in my constituency, I join my Member of Parliament, the hon. Member for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes, in celebrating Great Grimsby Day. I recently attended a meeting with the hon. Member for Scunthorpe and a group of potential investors in the steel industry, who I know have made approaches to the Secretary of State. Can he give me an assurance that all potential private sector investments in the industry will be given serious consideration?
Context
A group of potential investors in the steel industry have made approaches to the Secretary of State.
Peter Kyle
I congratulate the hon. Member on Great Grimsby Day, and I can give him that assurance.
Session: Topical Questions
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A letter from around 100 doctors at the hospital in Grimsby expressed concern over a possible rundown of services. What assurance can the Minister give that Grimsby and Scunthorpe hospitals will not see any service reductions?
Context
Local doctors from Grimsby and Scunthorpe hospitals raised concerns about a potential rundown of services due to a series of interim chief executives.
Karin Smyth
I understand the issues raised by the hon. Gentleman and others about the clinical mapping for new services which must be supported by clinicians and local people, I am happy to continue talking to him and others about progress with that.
Session: Topical Questions
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Could the Minister give an assurance that British-produced steel will take priority in such cases?
Context
Employers in Scunthorpe have expressed concern over reports of publicly funded projects using foreign-produced steel. The questioner seeks an assurance that British steel will take priority in such cases.
Chris McDonald
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his positive and constructive engagement on this issue. I do understand the concerns of the steelworkers in Scunthorpe. I know precisely the projects he is referring to; they were not procured under public procurement rules, and the developers and tier 1 contractors involved have followed their own rules and commitments. However, it is the case that this Government want to see more British steel used in both public and other projects around the country, which is a matter both for developing steel capability and, potentially, for reviewing our procurement rules.
Session: Topical Questions
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While keeping fares down is welcome, as is simplification, the Secretary of State will be aware that London North Eastern Railway introduced what it called a simplified system a few months ago, which has actually resulted in a number of increases, and that is causing considerable concern to my constituents and others. Does the Department intend to review LNER’s ticketing process in due course?
Context
London North Eastern Railway introduced a simplified system which has resulted in fare increases, causing concern among constituents.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
Many of the cheapest fares on LNER are still available. In the long-distance fare trials, the vast majority of people will benefit from the simplified ticketing system. Of course, as these trials take place, we will want to review this process and ensure that we are providing good value for money for as many of the travelling public as possible.
Session: Rail Fares
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Sadly, it is not job creation that faces many of my constituents, particularly those who work at the Lindsey oil refinery. The Secretary of State knows that Axiom and others submitted bids that would have continued production at the refinery. Instead, we now have a deal with Phillips 66 that transfers the assets but not the business. Will he undertake to make a statement to the House and to answer the many unanswered questions that surround the deal?
Context
The context involves job losses at the Lindsey oil refinery, where Axiom and others submitted bids to continue production. However, a deal was made with Phillips 66 that transfers assets but not the business.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
First of all, what happened at Lindsey—we should be clear that the responsibility lies with the owner, which ran the business into the ground—is tragic for the workers and their families, and I have talked to those workers. The hon. Gentleman will know—my hon. Friend the Energy Minister has spoken to him about this—that the process involved the official receiver, who looked for the best and most viable bid, but there was no viable bid to keep refining going at Lindsey. That is why P66 was chosen, and we are determined to work with the company to maximise the number of jobs that it can deliver for the local community.
Session: Energy Jobs Yorkshire and the Humber
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What steps are the Church Commissioners taking to increase the number of ordained clergy? As a member of the Ecclesiastical Committee, I note the significant presence of officials at meetings and wonder if slimming down Church bureaucracy could free up more resources for ministry work.
Context
The national Church institutions have held a consultation to inform a new vocation strategy, and the House of Bishops has emphasised increasing candidates for ministry. The biennial diocesan directors of ordinands conference is taking place this week.
The Leader of the House of Commons (Sir Alan Campbell)
I will certainly do that. I will ask my hon. Friend to write to the hon. Gentleman on this matter.
Session: Ordained Clergy
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The Minister will be aware of a recent survey showing very little public knowledge of future TV changes but significant concerns among those aware regarding both obtaining the service and its cost. What guarantees can the Minister give that costs will not be too heavy?
Context
A recent survey indicates that the public has little knowledge about future changes to terrestrial television, with those who are aware expressing concern over service availability and cost. The survey highlights a need for clarity on these issues.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts (Ian Murray)
Those are all considerations for the working group. It has met four times already and is due to meet again in December. I have met the group since taking office to discuss these issues. Digital inclusion, connectivity, and cost are active concerns that will be weighed by Government when making a decision, but let us not forget this is a decision from 01 January 2034 onwards—nothing will change before that.
Session: Future of TV Distribution
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The Planning Inspectorate recently overturned a decision by North East Lincolnshire council for a development of 200 houses in New Waltham in my constituency. The objections centred on highway capacity. In his report, the inspector acknowledged that the nearby roundabout was over capacity, but said that an increase from 100% to 107% capacity would make very little difference. Clearly, local residents disagree. Would the Minister acknowledge that public confidence in the process is being undermined by these decisions?
Context
The Planning Inspectorate overturned a decision by North East Lincolnshire council for a development of 200 houses in New Waltham, raising concerns about public confidence in the process.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for that question. Again, he will appreciate that, due to the quasi-judicial nature of the planning system, I cannot comment on individual applications. I am aware of the concerns that have been raised by Members from across the House about holding directions, issued in particular by National Highways. He may be aware of the reforms that we are making to the statutory consultation system as a whole, which are now out to consultation.
Session: Topical Questions
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Could the Minister give an indication of when new regulations might be brought forward to reduce the risks associated with headlight glare?
Context
There is growing evidence of dangers caused by headlight glare, with the Department undertaking its own research on the issue.
Lilian Greenwood
Last year we commissioned groundbreaking independent research to better understand problems related to headlight glare. We are looking at the matter and considering how it might be taken forward, although—given that the issue is subject to international vehicle regulations—the process may take time.
Session: Topical Questions
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The hundreds of workers at Lindsey oil refinery will have noted that in response to an earlier question, the Minister did not attempt to respond on the future of the refinery. At least two investors are looking to take over the whole site. If they prove satisfactory, can the Minister assure me that the Government will back the project?
Context
The Lindsey oil refinery is in the process of insolvency, with multiple bids being considered.
Michael Shanks
I am happy to have further conversations with the hon. Gentleman. I know that the refinery is in his constituency and that he cares deeply about it. A process is under way—led by the official receiver, because it is an insolvency process. It is considering a number of bids to make sure they are viable, and will conclude in the coming weeks so that there is certainty for the workforce. We have said throughout that we want to support as much investment in that site as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State has tried to paint a glowing picture of what is happening, but I can tell him that in northern Lincolnshire there are growing concerns. There have been a number of business failures in the last few weeks in the Grimsby and Immingham areas, and he will be aware of the threat to hundreds of jobs at the Prax oil refinery. All that makes it even more important that the Scunthorpe steelworks has a long-term future. Can he update the House on the state of things at Scunthorpe?
Context
There have been business failures in the Grimsby and Immingham areas recently, including a threat to hundreds of jobs at the Prax oil refinery. This raises concerns about job security.
Jonathan Reynolds
I am always keen to update the hon. Member and colleagues on the situation with British Steel. We have cancelled the redundancy consultation and removed the immediate risk to 2,700 jobs. We have taken on new apprentices and invested significantly in improving health and safety on the site. We have provided significant working capital—that does not take into account yet the future revenue that will come. I am sure he will have been pleased to see that Network Rail has awarded British Steel a contract worth £500 million. We will continue to ensure that there is a long-term future for British Steel, and we will keep the House and himself updated to that effect.
Session: Topical Questions
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Energy costs are an issue that the Prax oil refinery has brought to my attention over the years as a problem it has been facing. I appreciate the calls I have had with the Minister for Energy about this. I was able to visit the plant on Friday, and there was clearly growing concern, with hundreds of jobs at risk. What assurance can the Minister offer my constituents who are affected by this situation?
Context
The MP mentions a specific issue with the Prax oil refinery, where hundreds of jobs are at risk due to high energy costs.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Miatta Fahnbulleh)
The hon. Member is right to raise this situation; we know that it is very difficult, and we have been engaging on it. There have been long-standing issues with how the plant is run. We are trying, across the piece, to support businesses to make the transition—and support them within the transition—so that we can protect jobs across the country.
Session: Energy Costs Businesses
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In reply to an earlier question, the Planning Minister said that he wanted to increase the number of people who engage in the preparation of local plans. He will know that even if that number was doubled, it would still be a small proportion of the local community. When applications are being considered, local communities want them to be decided and determined by local authorities with minimal central input. Will the Minister guarantee that local authorities will continue to have that power?
Context
The Planning Minister had previously stated a desire to increase the number of people involved in local plan preparation.
Matthew Pennycook
Under our proposals in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill for a national scheme of delegation, it will still be local planning authorities that make recommendations and decisions. As the hon. Gentleman will know if he looks at the consultation, all we propose is a two-tier system in which a set of minor applications go to expert local planning officers. A separate tier can go to a planning committee, where the chair of planning and the chief planning officer decide that that is the case. Again, I encourage the hon. Gentleman to respond to the consultation.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Minister is familiar with the campaign that I and neighbouring colleagues have been running for many years to improve the A180. When will she have some good news for us?
Context
The MP expressed a long-standing campaign to improve the A180 road in his constituency.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Lilian Greenwood)
I can already give the hon. Member the good news about the £24 billion allocated in the spending review for improving our nation’s roads, and as he knows, National Highways is looking closely at what can be done on the road that leads to his constituency.
Session: Road Network Condition
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In part, Grenergy's shutdown is due to an influx of heavily subsidised hydro-treated vegetable oil from the US. Will the Secretary of State bear this in mind when he has trade negotiations with the US with a view to easing the situation?
Context
Greenergy, a company based in Immingham, has shut down some operations due to heavily subsidised hydro-treated vegetable oil from the US. This affects the local economy significantly.
Jonathan Reynolds
I shall of course take that up with the hon. Member. I have spent a fair bit of time in his constituency, as he knows, on one matter or another. On fair trade and level playing fields, colleagues can direct their industries to the Trade Remedies Authority if they have specific concerns, but, of course, we monitor those matters at a departmental level as well.
Session: Topical Questions
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The prosperity of northern towns is very much dependent on good transport connections. Will the Chancellor ensure that National Highways is adequately funded, so that it can improve access to the port and town of Immingham through improvements to the A180, and also that the Department for Transport has adequate funds to meet the modest amount that is needed to fund an extension of the King’s Cross to Lincoln train service through to Grimsby and Cleethorpes?
Context
The MP is concerned about the funding for improvements to the A180 and rail services in his area.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
I shall make sure that the Transport Secretary hears those requests, but the hon. Gentleman knows that our investment in British Steel, which will save that company, is set to increase the number of jobs there. That will make a massive difference to his constituents, as will the investment in renewable energy in the North sea, particularly around Immingham, creating good jobs and paying decent wages in his constituency and in many others, too.
Session: Northern Towns Funding
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Will the Minister give an absolute assurance that he and the Rail Minister will seriously consider the importance of a direct service between Cleethorpes, Grimsby, and King's Cross?
Context
The MP has been raising the prospect of a direct service from Cleethorpes and Grimsby to King’s Cross since 2011.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
A decision is ultimately a matter for the regulator. Open access can provide benefits such as improved connectivity and choice but also increase costs to taxpayers and create additional performance pressures on an already constrained network. The Department will look at applications on a case-by-case basis.
Session: Rail Access Grimsby and Cleethorpes
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Will the Minister confirm the state of the current negotiations over the future of Gibraltar, including whether they will be concluded before the EU-UK reset?
Context
Current negotiations over the future of Gibraltar.
The Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (Stephen Doughty)
I spoke to the Chief Minister of Gibraltar just this morning. We have been working closely with him and, indeed, with our EU and Spanish counterparts, and all sides agree on the importance of concluding a treaty as soon as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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If steel production ceases or is curtailed at the Scunthorpe steelworks, there will be a massive impact on the wider economy in northern Lincolnshire. Can the Minister give an assurance that contingency plans, including improvements to transport infrastructure, are in place should the worst happen?
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential closure or curtailment of steel production at Scunthorpe steelworks.
Darren Jones (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
We recognise how important this issue is for the hon. Member’s constituency, the region and, indeed, the national economy. My ministerial colleagues in the Department for Business and Trade are in discussions on this particular issue, but in our infrastructure strategy we are considering, as he would expect, the best value for aligning investments between housing, rail, energy and other types of infrastructure to deliver growth for everyone, in every region of the country.
Session: Economic Growth Transport Infrastructure
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Does the Secretary of State agree that it is vital to trust our national broadcaster and maintain the highest possible editorial standards?
Context
The UK media landscape has diversified, but the Secretary of State is asked about the importance of maintaining high standards at the BBC given its status as a national institution.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Lisa Nandy)
Agrees that the UK expects more from the BBC because it is a treasured national broadcaster. Acknowledges importance of ensuring all broadcasters meet high standards, especially concerning conflicts like Israel-Palestine.
Session: Gaza BBC Coverage
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How do the Government plan to help young people in rural areas access sport and leisure facilities?
Context
A new youth zone is under construction in Grimsby, but constituents from surrounding rural areas face challenges in accessing it.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Lisa Nandy)
I was delighted to host representatives from Grimsby in Wigan to show them our amazing OnSide youth facility. I am delighted that the Grimsby facility is now moving ahead at pace, but I share his concern about people from surrounding areas, particularly in relation to transport. Some of the youth funding that we have allocated for next year will address precisely those issues so that existing youth facilities can buy minibuses, for example, to ensure access for all young people.
Session: Topical Questions
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What is the Secretary of State able to pass on to them? In north-east Lincolnshire, a social enterprise employs 800 staff providing health and social care. I have been approached by many staff who are unhappy that they have not benefited from the increases that NHS staff have gained. They have the support of the Royal College of Nursing and are looking for the Government to provide Care Plus Group with the resources to ensure that they are recompensed to the same level.
Context
The question arises from discussions about salary increases for NHS staff not extending to social care workers, leading to dissatisfaction among those employed by Care Plus Group.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
I am grateful to the hon. Member for that question. With our fair pay agreements, we will be bringing together government, public and private sector employers and staff trade unions to negotiate the future for fair pay agreements that will benefit care workers across the system and give them the professional status and career progression they deserve. The Chancellor, through the Budget, also took steps to ensure that we could invest in our social care services.
Session: Care Sector Salaries
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I thank the hon. Lady for that reply and I appreciate the additional resources, but what my constituents, and I am sure constituents up and down the country, want to see is robust effective policing and prosecution of what is low-level crime in the great scheme of things, but which can be a real curse, particularly on our housing estates. Can the hon. Lady give an assurance to my constituents that there will be real robust and positive action?
Context
The question follows up on the previous query, emphasizing constituents' desire for effective action against minor offences.
Lucy Rigby
I can give that assurance. The hon. Gentleman calls this kind of crime low level, but I know from experiences in my constituency that these issues can affect daily life and really blight communities.
Session: Misdemeanours
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What steps she is taking to help ensure the effective prosecution of perpetrators of misdemeanours. I thank the hon. Lady for that reply and I appreciate the additional resources, but what my constituents, and I am sure constituents up and down the country, want to see is robust effective policing and prosecution of what is low-level crime in the great scheme of things, but which can be a real curse, particularly on our housing estates.
Context
The question addresses concerns about the prosecution of minor offences that can significantly impact local communities.
Lucy Rigby
The Government are committed to tackling criminality of all types. We have set out our plan for change, which includes putting 13,000 more police officers and PCSOs on the beat, bringing back neighbourhood policing, and providing an additional £49 million of funding to help recruit and train more prosecutors next year.
Session: Misdemeanours
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Is she able to add anything on when we might expect an announcement? As she will appreciate, particularly at this time of year, there is growing anxiety among the workforce.
Context
The steel industry faces challenges across the UK, with particular concern for decisions about the future of Scunthorpe.
Sarah Jones
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question and I have nothing new to add today, other than that we continue with our conversations with British Steel. We are working as fast as we can but it is ultimately up to British Steel to decide what it wants to do.
Session: Steel Industry South Yorkshire
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There is growing concern among constituents that planning decisions are being swept aside because of the government's new planning reforms. What assurance can the Minister give that there will be meaningful engagement between constituents and their local planning authority, and that decisions will be respected?
Context
There is growing concern among constituents that planning decisions are being swept aside due to the Government's new planning reforms.
Matthew Pennycook
As I have said, the best way to shape development in any given area is to have an up-to-date local plan in place. Where such plans are not in place, local authorities leave themselves open to the presumption in favour of sustainable development, and to development via appeal, so I encourage the hon. Gentleman to ensure that his local authority has an up-to-date plan in place. That is the best way for residents to have control.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is not just in Northumberland where there are many historic churches. The village of Ashby cum Fenby in my constituency has recently shown that the local community will come together to support their local church, but vital to that is leadership. With priests spread throughout so many different parishes, it becomes more and more difficult to provide that leadership. Can the hon. Lady give an assurance that the Church will do all it can to ensure that our smaller villages are not neglected, and that there are regular services and leadership by the ordained priest?
Context
The village of Ashby cum Fenby recently showed community support for their local church. With priests spread across many parishes, it is challenging to provide leadership.
Marsha de Cordova
I agree with you, Mr Speaker, but I congratulate the hon. Member on trying so diligently on that question. What I will say is that I will happily write to him with a response to that, if that is okay.
Session: Historic Church Preservation Northumberland
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John Prescott was a towering figure in the politics of the Humber region, and I associate myself with the words of sympathy to his family. Roads in my constituency are under greater pressure because traffic from the A180 is continually being transferred on to them while it is being patched up. Will the Secretary of State meet me and Melanie Onn to discuss this and other transport issues in the area?
Context
The MP paid tribute to John Prescott's impact on the politics of the Humber region. He mentioned that traffic from A180 is being transferred onto roads causing them significant pressure.
Louise Haigh
I am sure that the Minister with responsibility for roads, my hon. Friend the Member for Nottingham South (Lilian Greenwood), would be very happy to meet the hon. Gentleman and my hon. Friend the Member for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes (Melanie Onn).
Session: Condition of Local Roads
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What are Ministers doing to engage with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and National Grid to ensure that connections are available?
Context
Businesses in the constituency find it difficult to expand due to national grid connections.
Sarah Jones
I sit across the Department for Business and Trade and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. The entire point of my role is to join up the two Departments to tackle issues such as the grid, which is No. 1 on our list.
Session: Topical Questions
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Ministers have acknowledged in reply to earlier questions that they recognise the financial pressures being placed on local authorities, especially in connection with children's services and adult social care. Whatever may or may not be in the Budget, can the Minister reassure council tax payers that they will not bear an undue burden as a result of any changes?
Context
Ministers recognise the financial pressures being placed on local authorities.
Jim McMahon
This Government are acutely aware of the impact of the cost of living crisis on working people, and that is firmly in our sights as we approach the spending review this week, but we will have to repair a fair amount of the system, not just the finances. The early warning audit has been left shattered following 14 years of mismanagement, and single-year settlements have left councils not knowing from one year to the next how much money they have to spend, so we will have to introduce multi-year settlements.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can she reassure me that this Government will actually increase the resources available to the youth sector?
Context
The MP supports the hon. Member for Great Grimsby's comments on youth services but seeks assurance that current government will increase funding.
Lisa Nandy
Determined to address issue; discovered multiple funding sources but no youth strategy, working with youth workers like The Haven and OnSide youth zones to develop a new generation support plan.
Session: Youth Services
View All Questions -->
I welcome the decision to approve the new roll-on, roll-off shipping terminal at Immingham. However, this will put more pressure on the A180 road network. Will improvements be brought forward for the A180, particularly for concrete surface removal?
Context
The Secretary of State approved a new roll-on, roll-off shipping terminal at Immingham, which could put pressure on the local A180 road network.
Louise Haigh
I have heard about issues with the A180 from constituents. We will write to him with a National Highways update.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State give a reassurance that the Sustainable Farming Incentive will continue and will do so at the existing funding levels? Farmers in my constituency who receive funding through the sustainable farming incentive are concerned that some of the schemes are becoming over-subscribed and therefore their income is reducing.
Context
Farmers in Martin Vickers' constituency who receive funding through the sustainable farming incentive are concerned about over-subscription.
Steve Reed
I have been clear, throughout the election campaign and since, that we do not intend to overturn the applecart in respect of the old schemes in general, including the SFI. We support the principles behind the schemes and want to see them continue.
Session: Funding for Farming
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If he will maintain the level of funding for farming. Farmers in my constituency who receive funding through the sustainable farming incentive are concerned that some of the schemes are becoming over-subscribed and therefore their income is reducing. Will the Secretary of State give a reassurance that that particular initiative will continue and will do so at the existing funding levels?
Context
Farmers in Martin Vickers' constituency are concerned about the level of funding for farming.
Steve Reed
The Government will restore stability and confidence in the sector by introducing a new deal for farmers to boost rural economic growth and strengthen food security alongside nature's recovery. The Government are currently conducting a spending review, which will conclude in October. Departmental budgets, including spending on farming, will be confirmed through this process.
Session: Funding for Farming
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Draft UK-EU Agreement on Gibraltar
08 July 2026
Responding: Stephen Doughty
Main Concerns
['Mr. Vickers detailed his concerns about the impact of proposed taxation arrangements in Gibraltar on retailers, mentioning a ceramics retailer who was planning to cease operations after 25 years due to rising costs and impositions on the ceramics sector. He also noted that the chief commissioner of the police recognised certain issues needing further consideration regarding security.']
Specific Asks
["Mr. Vickers asked for an opportunity to discuss with the Minister the concerns raised during their visit to Gibraltar, especially those related to security and the impact of new immigration rules on the university's attractiveness to international students."]
Oil Refining Sector
11 December 2025
Responding: Katie White
Main Concerns
["My constituency is in northern Lincolnshire on the south bank of the Humber, which has been christened 'the UK’s Energy Estuary'. Until recently, the region had two major oil refineries, but the closure of Grangemouth and uncertainty at Lindsey refinery have left only four operational refineries in the UK. The number of refineries is down from 18 in the 1970s to just four now. Refinery output has decreased significantly over recent years, with demand still reliant on liquid fuels for transport."]
Specific Asks
['We must consider how to support the oil refining sector while meeting climate targets, ensuring energy security and avoiding deindustrialisation. This includes addressing high energy costs, carbon costs, and unequal access to decarbonisation opportunities.']
Rail Services: Open Access Operators
06 February 2025
Responding: Simon Lightwood
Main Concerns
['The east coast main line has seen the establishment of three privately owned open access inter-city operators competing with LNER. The statistics reflect that on many fronts, indicating a successful model. However, towns such as Grimsby, Cleethorpes and intermediate stations have not yet been reached by open access operators, despite efforts to establish services since 2011.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Minister to address the reasons why direct services cannot be established from Brigg and Immingham constituency and wider northern Lincolnshire area to London and other key cities. I also ask for consideration of modular platform extensions which are proving to be much cheaper than the previously mentioned £15 million to £20 million estimate.']
Road Safety: Headlight Glare
08 May 2024
Responding: Anthony Browne
Main Concerns
['Mr Vickers is concerned about the excessive brightness of modern headlights, which cause discomforting glare for drivers and potentially increase road accidents. He cites a study by the Royal Automobile Club showing that 89% of UK drivers think some or most vehicle headlights are too bright. The issue disproportionately affects older drivers due to conditions like early-stage cataracts. Many drivers restrict their night driving, leading to social isolation and under-reporting of glare issues.']
Specific Asks
['Mr Vickers asks the Minister to bring together car manufacturers, lighting industry representatives, eyecare professionals, neurologists, and other interested parties to better understand headlight glare. He suggests sponsoring research by a health protection institute to establish safety standards for headlights and limit blue light spectrum. Legal limits should be set for blue light in vehicle headlights, guidance provided during MOTs on inappropriate after-market LED bulbs installation, and international efforts to address the issue.']
Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail
14 June 2023
Responding: Huw Merriman
Main Concerns
["Martin Vickers is concerned about the current state of Britain's railways, which he describes as a 'broken model' with unsustainable finances. He highlights issues such as high fares, poor services, restricted operator freedom due to pandemic-era contracts, and lack of transparency in funding. He notes that while open access on the east coast main line has boosted competition and innovation, it is not enough to solve all problems."]
Specific Asks
['Vickers urges for reforms including a public-private partnership model through Great British Railways, more flexible national rail contracts, fares reform, introduction of single-leg pricing on LNER extended to private operators, and the ratification of the Luxembourg rail protocol.']
Religious Education in Modern Britain
01 November 2022
Responding: Nick Gibb
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned that guidance on religious education from 28 years ago may not be relevant to modern Britain. He notes a worrying trend where some schools report offering zero hours of RE, particularly in academies without a religious character. The MP also mentions the decline in secondary RE teachers and insufficient financial support for trainee RE teachers. The recruitment of secondary school religious education teachers is nearly 20% below the level required to meet the 2022 target, and the number of GCSE entries for a full RE course has fallen by close to 20% between 2016 and 2021. According to the RE Policy Unit's report, 25% of RE lessons are taught by teachers with no A-level qualification in the subject, which is more than three times the proportion for history."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks that the importance of RE should be reflected in a properly funded national plan for RE, with all pupils taught by well-qualified and trained teachers who have access to bursaries where necessary. He urges the Minister to give strong consideration to these points and to meet him and the RE Policy Unit to discuss further. What specific action will he take to ensure that targets for the recruitment of secondary school RE teachers and addressing the lack of RE specialism in schools are met? Will he introduce a national plan for religious education?']
Do Not Attempt Resuscitation Orders: Guidelines
21 July 2021
Responding: Nadine Dorries
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the overuse of Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (DNACPR) orders, particularly during the covid-19 pandemic. There are reports that almost 10% of DNACPR decisions were made and communicated inappropriately, involving potential breaches of individuals' human rights. I have heard deeply saddening stories from constituents who feel pressured into signing these orders against their will or face blanket use without consent. Such practices can lead to distressing cases where patients are denied vital medical treatment or do not receive the care they need."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to provide more details about the work of the ministerial oversight group established to follow through on Care Quality Commission (CQC) recommendations and to confirm that the Government is thinking about including health and social care providers, local government, and voluntary organizations in this group. I also urge the Minister to take action to ensure that decisions regarding DNACPR orders are made only after discussions with patients or their next of kin.']
Local Government Reorganisation
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Criminal Justice Reform
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
British Steel
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
16 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Gibraltar: UK-EU Treaty
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Steel Industry (Alleviation of Financial Difficulties) Bill - Clause 3 - Sunset for exercise of principal transfer powers
14 July 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government support all the Lords amendments before us, which strengthen the Steel Industry (Alleviation of Financial Difficulties) Bill. Amendment 1 ensures that the sunset power in the Bill may b...
NATO Summit
09 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Steel Trade Measure
25 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Media Green Paper
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Planned closure of Lloyds Banking Group’s Immingham Branch
15 November 2022
The petitioners are concerned about the planned closure of Lloyds Banking Group’s Immingham branch, which will leave the town without any bank branches and adversely affect access to cash for a signif...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
74.5%
73 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
38
38.8% of votes
No Votes
35
35.7% of votes
Abstentions
25
25.5% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
6
PMQs Asked
130
Ministerial Questions Asked
219
House of Commons Debates Involved
7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
6
Statements / Bills
1
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
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+870% above average
This MP:
130
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+178% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+4406% above average
This MP:
219
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-37% below average
This MP:
6
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-59% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+8% above average
This MP:
74.5
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 Martin Vickers's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.