Matt Western
MP for Warwick and Leamington
Lab
8 Jun 2017 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Will the Prime Minister agree to meet me to discuss providing energy aid to support Ukraine through a harsh winter?
Context
Ukraine faces severe winter challenges with over 80% of its energy infrastructure damaged or destroyed, requiring urgent provision of power generators and equipment.
Keir Starmer
We have provided £370 million of support to the Ukrainian energy sector. I will ensure that my hon. Friend gets a meeting with the relevant Minister.
Session: PMQs
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Lord Houchen has gifted 40% of the Teesworks project worth £500 million to two local business mates in a deal that the Boro chairman describes as unforgiveable. Will the Government admit Lord Houchen and the Conservatives have sold Teesside taxpayers down the river?
Context
The Mayor of Tees Valley, Lord Houchen, gifted a portion of the Teesworks project to local business mates. The Boro chairman describes this as giving away the future of the region's children.
Oliver Dowden
The hon. Gentleman talks about Teesside taxpayers, but Ben Houchen has never imposed a mayoral precept in Tees Valley. He has saved Teesside airport and secured a new freeport for Teesside.
Assessment
Did not address the gift deal or admit it is an issue for taxpayers
Never Imposed
Saved Airport
Secured Freeport
Session: PMQs
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At a recent meeting of Warwickshire County Council, children with special educational needs were described by some county councillors as requiring “some form of strict correction”, or were “just really badly behaved”. Other inappropriate language was used. Parents of SEN children across the country have been outraged by this, with some 30,000 of them signing a petition calling for those councillors' resignations. Will the Prime Minister condemn the Conservative councillors' language and urge them to do the right thing and resign?
Context
County councillors used inappropriate language regarding children with special educational needs, leading to a petition demanding their resignations.
Rishi Sunak
I have not seen the details of those comments and this issue. More generally, the Government have a strong track record of supporting those with disabilities. It is important that children with special educational needs receive the right support in the right place at the right time. We have seen funding for SEN increase by 60% over this Parliament to more than £10 billion. Most recently, the Department for Education and the Department of Health and Social Care are piloting a new project to improve access to specialty support in mainstream primary schools, because we want to make sure that these children get all the support and opportunities they deserve.
Assessment
Shifted focus to government's overall funding and projects for SEN rather than condemning language or demanding resignations
Changed Subject
Focused On General Initiatives
Session: PMQs
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I was concerned when I read that the Prime Minister had to be flown to a Southampton pharmacy. Several weeks earlier he flew from Lancashire to Yorkshire by private jet. Meanwhile, angry rail commuters suffer from service reductions and longer journey times due to operator cuts. The public thinks the PM is out of touch; they are right?
Context
The public is concerned about the Prime Minister's travel expenses, such as being airlifted to a pharmacy and flying by private jet while rail commuters face cancellations.
Oliver Dowden
It is extraordinary to receive lectures from Labour about railways when a train drivers' union head sits on their national executive committee and was described as “one of us” by Angela Rayner. No wonder they won't stand up to militant rail unions; it literally drives their policies.
Assessment
Did not address whether the PM is out of touch with public concerns
Criticising Opposition Party
Session: PMQs
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If he can find £2.3 billion to pay a fine, why can he not pay NHS workers and others the pay increases they deserve?
Context
The Prime Minister paid a £2.3 billion fine to the EU after allowing Chinese fraudsters to flood Europe with cheap goods.
Rishi Sunak
The hon. Gentleman may not have seen that the Royal College of Nursing is now in talks with the Government about resolving the disputes, and I am grateful to it for entering those talks with a constructive attitude, and for calling off its strikes next week.
Assessment
The questioner asked why the government cannot provide wage increases given recent large payments. The answer did not address this issue but mentioned ongoing talks with the Royal College of Nursing about resolving disputes.
Changing Subject To Ongoing Talks
Session: PMQs
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May I welcome the Prime Minister to her place? I am not sure how to measure a good honeymoon, but after five weeks of a crisis conceived in Downing Street—a crash in pensions, interest rates rising, mortgage market turmoil and complete financial chaos—the country has been left wanting divorce. In two recent polls, 60% of those in this country want an immediate general election. The Prime Minister claims that she is listening mode; will she give way to the public?
Context
The question discusses the economic turmoil following recent events, including issues in pensions, interest rates, and mortgage markets, with polls showing that 60% of people want an immediate general election.
Elizabeth Truss
I think the last thing we need is a general election.
Assessment
Public demand for an immediate general election
The Last Thing We Need
Session: PMQs
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Can the Prime Minister tell the House how he could afford a £150,000 treehouse?
Context
The MP is highlighting the struggles faced by workers in terms of cost of living, referencing specific salary figures for nurses and teachers.
Boris Johnson
Rather than fantasy infrastructure, I can help people with real infrastructure. We have £650 billion investment and are helping people with £1,200 going into their bank accounts.
Assessment
Did not address the specific question about treehouse but provided broad commitments
Session: PMQs
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You will forgive me, Mr Speaker, if I start by saying that, given the Prime Minister's preferences for fantasy castles and Peppa Pig, he is welcome to come and visit Zog Playland at Warwick castle. In Warwick and Leamington, as across the country, the cost of living crunch is really serious. As we have heard, energy bills are set to double by the end of this year and food prices to rise by 10% to 15% by year end, and fuel is already 22% up year on year.
Context
The cost of energy bills, food prices, and fuel are rising sharply. Constituents express concern about the government's handling of financial reality.
Boris Johnson
We are tackling the cost of living by dealing with the spike in energy prices and making sure that we take the right long-term decisions to take this country forward.
Assessment
Did not provide specific measures or funding details for addressing the crisis.
Long-Term Decisions
Session: PMQs
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Given that his many weaknesses could leave him open to blackmail, why does the Prime Minister think that MI6 may not entirely trust him?
Context
A former Minister claimed the Prime Minister was entertained at bunga bunga parties hosted by a Russian oligarch, raising concerns about potential blackmail.
Boris Johnson
Last week, I was not here to benefit from one of the hon. Gentleman's elaborately confected questions. I admire his style, but I am afraid that I simply fail to detect any crouton of substance in the minestrone of nonsense that he has just spoken.
Assessment
Specific ask about trustworthiness was not addressed
Personal Insult
Session: PMQs
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When it comes to judging a person, company they keep matters. The Prime Minister has been seen associating with individuals such as Lubov Chernukhin and Alexander Lebedev. What first attracted him to these billionaire Russian oligarchs?
Context
The question highlights the Prime Minister's social relationships with several prominent Russian figures. It raises questions about the basis of these associations.
Dominic Raab
The Prime Minister wants this country to be open and outward-looking to the world. The Government introduced Sergei Magnitsky sanctions, which include human rights sanctions against individuals involved in wrongdoing.
Assessment
Did not address the question about his association with Russian figures
Wants This Country To Be Open And Outward-Looking
Introduced Sergei Magnitsky Sanctions
Session: PMQs
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I am not sure that the Prime Minister actually welcomed my hon. Friend the new Member for Batley and Spen, but perhaps he will want to correct the record after this.
They say that where there's a will there's a way, and the public will clearly welcome the Government's move to introduce emergency legislation tomorrow for pubs and bars to be able to stay open later on Sundays. However, the public will wonder why the hon. Member for Delyn (Rob Roberts) will be allowed to return to this House tomorrow and not be subject to a recall, despite there being a serious case of sexual harassment. The public do not understand why there should be one rule for Conservative MPs and another for the rest of us. Will the Prime Minister therefore allow time tomorrow for a motion to close this loophole and make the hon. Member for Delyn the subject of a recall?
They say that where there's a will there's a way, and the public will clearly welcome the Government's move to introduce emergency legislation tomorrow for pubs and bars to be able to stay open later on Sundays. However, the public will wonder why the hon. Member for Delyn (Rob Roberts) will be allowed to return to this House tomorrow and not be subject to a recall, despite there being a serious case of sexual harassment. The public do not understand why there should be one rule for Conservative MPs and another for the rest of us. Will the Prime Minister therefore allow time tomorrow for a motion to close this loophole and make the hon. Member for Delyn the subject of a recall?
Context
MP Rob Roberts has faced allegations of sexual harassment.
Boris Johnson
First of all, the gentleman in question's sanction has come to an end. Secondly, the hon. Member for Warwick and Leamington (Matt Western) is in error: the hon. Member for Delyn (Rob Roberts) is not a Conservative MP.
Assessment
The answer changed the subject entirely without addressing why there should be one rule for MPs.
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about the use of GDP as an abstract measure for understanding prosperity. With a 15% drop in UK GDP due to the pandemic, we have lost 184,000 car sales relative to Germany and 100,000 compared to France. Behind these numbers are jobs and businesses. How does the Prime Minister explain this economic performance?
Context
The question follows recent data showing a significant drop in car sales compared to other countries.
Boris Johnson
The Government have done everything possible to support business and livelihoods during the pandemic, including over £260 billion in support. Unemployment remains lower in the UK than in France, Italy, Spain, and the US despite our difficulties.
Assessment
Did not address car sales or economic performance relative to other countries directly.
Under Review
Working With Partners
Session: PMQs
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The Housing Secretary's constituency received £25 million from the regeneration scheme. This was approved by a Minister who later returned the favour. Is this process appropriate?
Context
There are concerns about the independence of the regeneration scheme's approval process due to apparent conflicts of interest.
Boris Johnson
All approvals were independently conducted, but if there are serious allegations to make against my right hon. Friend then he should have the courage to do so.
Assessment
Did not address approval process fairness
Suggested Raising Any Serious Allegation
Session: PMQs
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Across the UK, our universities are struggling to contain the coronavirus, with some 5,000 cases reported in recent weeks. In Leamington, Deloitte will not deliver on its testing facility until the end of this month. My question is simple: were the Government not expecting students to return to university?
Context
Universities across the UK are struggling with coronavirus cases, and some communities are concerned about delays in the delivery of local testing facilities.
Boris Johnson
It is very important that students should return to university in the way that they have, and I want to thank the overwhelming majority of students for the way that they have complied with the guidance, complied with the regulations and are doing what they can to suppress it. Clearly, there are particular problems in some parts of the country, which we have discussed at length already, and we will be pursuing the measures that we have outlined to bring them down in those areas.
Assessment
Specific preparation for student return and testing facilities were not addressed directly
Clearly, There Are Particular Problems In Some Parts Of The Country
Session: PMQs
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Matt Western asks for details on steps taken by the Prime Minister working with Germany and France to help restore the Iran nuclear deal, post his appointment as Prime Minister.
Context
The Government have made commitments to work with Germany and France in helping to restore the Iran nuclear deal since July.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
Johnson acknowledges the importance and states that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action remains the best way forward for preventing nuclear proliferation in Iran. He suggests it is a shell that can be filled again if circumstances allow.
Session: PMQs
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Following the attack on the Prime Minister's home and car, what measures are being taken to protect recently resigned or other senior leaders of Government?
Context
Recent attacks on the Prime Minister's home and car.
Angela Eagle
We always assess security risks on a case-by-case basis, and we do not discuss what they are in public.
Session: Topical Questions
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Water resilience is very much on people's minds this week. When a canal embankment collapsed in Whitchurch in my constituency just before Christmas, I found out that the canal network is used for drinking water, and that millions of gallons of drinking water will be being pumped over the breach every single day until it is repaired. Canal embankments are often 200 years old and largely made of sand, yet they are critical national infrastructure. Is the Minister satisfied that the Government are doing enough to retain the canal network in a safe state, not only to keep people safe but to protect our water resilience?
Context
The MP discusses a recent incident where a canal embankment collapsed, leading to concerns about the safety and water resilience of canals as critical national infrastructure.
Angela Eagle
When I was first in government in 1997, I discovered that I was the Minister for Canals, which was a particularly enjoyable part of the brief, so I understand what the hon. Lady is saying. My previous Department, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, does a lot on this issue, so I will contact the Water Minister. We can liaise, and I will be in touch with the hon. Lady.
Session: National Resilience
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A good way of reducing bills is to reduce consumption. In Germany, about 12 years ago, subsidised mortgages were introduced to help reduce the cost of installing triple glazing in houses. However, in conservation areas in this country, such as in my constituency, people are prevented from installing even secondary glazing, so they cannot reduce their bills, even though they would desperately like to. Will the Minister meet colleagues in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to get this issue sorted?
Context
Residents in conservation areas face restrictions on installing secondary glazing, hindering efforts to reduce energy consumption.
Martin McCluskey
I would be more than happy to meet to discuss that. The warm homes plan—our £15 billion investment in home energy upgrades, which is the biggest in British history—will go a long way to achieving some of the ends that my hon. Friend describes.
Session: Household Energy Bills
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Will the Minister commit to continuing work with companies such as FalconWorks that support many jobs in Fylde?
Context
FalconWorks at Warton is part of the BAE Systems family, leading in unmanned aircraft technology.
Luke Pollard
I commend FalconWorks and BAE Systems. The Government have established UK Defence Innovation, with a £400 million annual budget to support innovation in equipment procurement.
Session: Defence Procurement
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We are the third most attacked nation globally when it comes to cyber-attacks. What steps is the Department taking to raise public awareness generally?
Context
The UK ranks third globally in cyber-attacks, according to the Minister. The questioner wants to know about steps taken to raise public awareness.
Dan Jarvis
We take these threats very seriously and continually monitor risks with our intelligence agencies. We work closely with industry and international partners to protect our networks. As I set out yesterday, we will continue to strengthen defences and remain resilient.
Session: National Resilience
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The Minister will know that we have suffered extreme chemical pollution from Berry Polymers. There is also an application for dumping large quantities of building waste by Bellway Homes. Will she agree to meet me and the Environment Agency urgently to resolve this issue?
Context
In Warwick and Leamington, there is chemical pollution in the atmosphere from Berry Polymers and a proposed application by Bellway Homes to dump significant amounts of construction waste.
Emma Hardy
I thank my hon. Friend for raising these important matters, acknowledging his long-term campaigning on cleaning up rivers, lakes, and seas. I would be delighted to meet him.
Session: Air Pollution
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The UK-US economic prosperity deal was very welcome for the automotive sector, but there are some challenges for that sector. The current quota of 100,000 units and the quarterly thresholds are particularly difficult for small-volume and micro manufacturers, such as Aston Martin, McLaren and Morgan. What conversations are taking place between the US and the UK on those details?
Context
The MP highlights the challenges faced by small-volume and micro manufacturers in the automotive industry due to quota limitations.
Chris McDonald
I certainly recognise the issue of the quota, and the importance of our small-volume manufacturers such as Aston Martin and McLaren. I met McLaren last week, I had a meeting with Aston Martin this week as part of the Automotive Council UK, and I will meet Aston Martin’s chief executive in the new year.
Session: Topical Questions
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What assessment he has made of the potential impact of climate change on food security. Three of the UK’s five worst harvests have been in the last five years, and this year is looking particularly concerning, with yields likely to be down and margins for farmers on the brink. Just last month, the Bank of England said that extreme weather is now one of the key factors in driving food price inflation. Could the Minister elaborate on what other steps the Government are taking to mitigate food price inflation for consumers?
Context
Climate change has led to extreme weather conditions affecting farmers, including floods and heatwaves. The UK's five worst harvests in the last five years highlight concerns about food security.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
My hon. Friend makes a very important point. Of course, consumer food prices depend on a wide range of factors, including agrifood import prices, agricultural prices in general, domestic labour and manufacturing costs, exchange rates, productivity and the extreme weather we have been seeing, which inevitably impacts growth and livestock feed supplies. I reassure the House that the UK has a very resilient food supply chain, and as our food security report shows, it is well equipped to meet these challenges.
Session: Climate Change Food Security
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Under the previous Government, the number of PCSOs more than halved in Warwickshire. Indeed, in summer 2023, local teachers were forced to police a park in Warwick and Leamington after a knife gang terrorised pupils, stealing their bikes. More widely, constituents are fed up with crime and antisocial behaviour; 50% say that they have been personally impacted by crime in the past five years. Will the Home Secretary outline how the Government will address these crimes and make our streets safer for everyone?
Context
Under the previous government, there was a significant reduction in PCSOs numbers. This has led to issues such as local teachers having to police parks due to knife gang activity.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Yvette Cooper)
My hon. Friend is right to raise the importance of PCSOs as well as police officers in neighbourhood teams working to prevent crime. He is also right to raise concerns. Over the last two years of the previous Government, both street theft and shoplifting increased by more than 60%, at the same time as neighbourhood police were cut. We are putting the bobbies back on the beat.
Session: Neighbourhood Policing
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The current ceasefire is clearly welcome, but it is fragile, given that Israel seems determined to pursue a policy of expansionism. We have seen the bombings in Jenin and the expansion into southern Lebanon, as well as into the buffer zone of the Golan heights, and Israel will only be emboldened by the irresponsible ramblings of the new US President. Does the Minister agree that we are witnessing ethnic cleansing, and can I urge the UK Government to lead at the United Nations with a new resolution for a Marshall plan to ensure the rebuilding of Gaza on the terms of the Palestinian people?
Context
MP discussed the fragility of the current ceasefire, expansionism by Israel, bombings in Jenin, and expansion into southern Lebanon. MP urged the government to lead with a new resolution at the UN.
The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising the issue of the role that the UK can play in the recovery and rebuilding of Gaza. As I mentioned, we have been working with a range of partners on that issue, seeking to support the Palestinian Authority and contributing experts to their endeavours. We are looking very closely at the World Bank’s updated damage assessment and will seek to work with the World Bank and other partners.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
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Can the UK Government look again at the future of these businesses to ensure investments and jobs stay in Northern Ireland?
Context
Northern Ireland hosts major innovative companies such as Wrightbus, Spirit AeroSystems, and Harland & Wolff.
Fleur Anderson
The Department for Business and Trade remains in contact with Spirit, Airbus, Boeing, and other potential buyers. They continue to provide over £13 million of support for Short Brothers' research and development activity.
Session: Supporting Innovation
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What steps are being taken to help support innovation in Northern Ireland?
Context
The question comes after the passing of Ken Reid, a former UTV political editor closely associated with Northern Ireland oral questions.
Fleur Anderson
The Government is working with universities and businesses through the business innovation grant and industrial strategy. The launch of Invest NI's business innovation grant, receiving £440,000 of UK Government funding, complements these efforts.
Session: Supporting Innovation
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The police and crime commissioner claims he knew nothing about the secret protocol despite financial support from the Countryside Alliance. The chief constable refused to provide information, now she has resigned citing retirement. Can the Minister meet me to discuss a truly independent inquiry?
Context
A community protection notice against the Warwickshire hunt was replaced by a secret protocol, and there is suspicion of lack of transparency due to financial ties between the police and countryside organizations.
Jess Phillips
I thank my hon. Friend and as a local to Warwickshire I take a keen interest in those matters myself. Of course, I will meet him along with the Minister for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention, my right hon. Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham (Dame Diana Johnson). It is vital that the public can trust those who police us are held to account.
Session: Policing
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The police and crime commissioner claims he knew nothing about the secret protocol despite financial support from the Countryside Alliance. The chief constable refused to provide information, now she has resigned citing retirement. Can the Minister meet me to discuss a truly independent inquiry?
Context
A community protection notice against the Warwickshire hunt was replaced by a secret protocol, and there is suspicion of lack of transparency due to financial ties between the police and countryside organizations.
Jess Phillips
I thank my hon. Friend and as a local to Warwickshire I take a keen interest in those matters myself. Of course, I will meet him along with the Minister for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention, my right hon. Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham (Dame Diana Johnson). It is vital that the public can trust those who police us are held to account.
Session: Policing
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Given the importance of diagnostics for improving health outcomes across the country, does my hon. Friend agree that restoring good quality diagnostics to our NHS is crucial after the closure of the Rosalind Franklin laboratory?
Context
The Rosalind Franklin laboratory, set up in the constituency of Matt Western, was recently closed down at a cost of £0.6 billion.
Karin Smyth
My hon. Friend is absolutely right that we are committed to improving diagnostics as part of our reform of the health sector. Analysis shows 20% of people will end up with a hospital admission, most as day cases, and focusing on early prevention, diagnostics, and consultant review at an early stage can improve waiting times.
Session: Health Outcomes East Midlands
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With winter looming, defending the home front in Ukraine is paramount. However, Russia has intensified its attacks on energy infrastructure in Ukraine, including substations, where it has deployed cluster munitions. That is particularly alarming. Given those developments, what additional support can the UK give through de-mining equipment to get rid of those munitions from the ground?
Context
The MP asks about de-mining equipment to remove cluster munitions from Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
John Healey
My hon. Friend makes an important point. It is vital to remember that these are not military targets; they are civilian targets. These are Russian actions that breach international humanitarian law and we must never lose sight of the moral outrage about what the Russians are doing. Clearly, with the onset of winter, there is a vital imperative for Britain and other countries to step up support as we can. Since the election, we have been offering specialist advice on how to protect energy generation and transmission sites, and the Foreign Secretary, when he was in Ukraine last month, committed another £20 million to support emergency energy needs.
Session: Ukraine Military Support 2024-10-14 (2)
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What recent discussions he has had with his international counterparts on support for Ukraine.
Context
The MP asks about recent discussions on supporting Ukraine.
John Healey
I regularly discuss how best to support Ukraine with international partners. Last week, I met my Ukrainian counterpart and the new Secretary-General of NATO in London. Last month at the Ukraine defence contact group in Ramstein, I met nearly 50 other Defence Ministers who came together to commit to continued support of Ukraine, both in the immediate fight and for the long term.
Session: Ukraine Military Support 2024-10-14 (2)
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Warwick and Leamington must be one of the sunniest places in the United Kingdom given the flurry of applications we have had for solar farms. There is a “loss of amenity” caused by one application, but if that community were prepared to welcome onshore wind turbines, rather than a solar farm, would the Secretary of State or the Minister agree to support that? Will they meet me to discuss the issue?
Context
There have been numerous solar farm applications in Warwickshire, including one that may cause a 'loss of amenity'. The questioner proposes an alternative onshore wind turbine installation.
Ed Miliband
Every planning application and development consent order is assessed on its merits. Importantly, the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Streatham and Croydon North (Steve Reed), is polishing a land use framework which has long been needed in this country. It will set out the balance between food security, the use of renewable energy, the restoration of nature and the role of farming. I hope that will help with some of the issues that hon. Members are facing.
Session: Topical Questions
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What plans does she have to reset the relationship with the OfS so that it gives renewed focus to the students that it is supposed to represent?
Context
The House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee presented a report last year that was critical of the Office for Students.
Bridget Phillipson
I thank my hon. Friend for all his work in this important area to ensure that our universities are recognised as a crucial part of how we drive growth in our country. Sir David's review, which we published in July, is a platform for improvement, and I welcome and accept its core findings.
Session: Office for Students
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Does the Minister agree that we need an urgent review of such price gouging systems?
Context
Oasis fans were angered by dynamic pricing, a concern seen across the economy.
Justin Madders
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has announced a review, and the Competition and Markets Authority is also looking into it.
Session: Topical Questions
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My requests to the then Government to source PPE from local, UK manufacturers were largely ignored. Will the Minister insist that any covid corruption commissioner listens to companies such as Tecman and Comtest in my constituency about what happened at that time?
Context
During the pandemic, local UK manufacturers were largely ignored when asked to source personal protective equipment.
Pat McFadden
All lessons should be learned about the procurement pressures at that time, including the lesson that my hon. Friend mentioned.
Session: Topical Questions
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I appreciate that this is early days, 16 days in, but does the Minister have any idea why that may be, and what can be done about it?
Context
Yesterday's NHS data showed that England has among the highest incidences of dementia in the world, with approximately 500,000 cases.
Stephen Kinnock
A number of potential new disease-modifying drugs for Alzheimer's are in the pipeline, including lecanemab and donanemab. We are committed to ensuring that clinically effective and cost-effective medicines reach patients in a timely and safe way.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Secretary of State recognise that the Government's lack of ambition for Britain has let thousands of skilled workers down, when historic investments in green steel are being made by European competitors?
Context
The Welsh steel industry faces challenges such as adapting to renewable energy needs. European competitors are making significant investments in green steel production.
David Davies
The hon. Gentleman makes a good point about the importance of making sure there is a grid connection to enable an electric arc furnace to work properly. I have raised this issue with National Grid, and it has assured me that the grid connection can be made on time.
Session: Future of Steelmaking
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Welcoming the Minister to his new role, we welcome the fact that he is now in place but miss his predecessor. Concerns about dissuading and disenfranchising young people from careers such as nursing are raised due to the 7.3% decline in nursing applications during a time when more nurses are needed. What is the Minister doing? Does he think this system, introduced before joining the education team, is fair?
Context
The number of applications for nursing fell by 7.3% at a time when more nurses are needed in the health service.
Luke Hall
Welcoming to his new role. The 2023 cycle shows numbers rebalancing following pandemic disruption, with significant impact from nursing apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships on recruitment.
Session: Student Loan Repayment Plan
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Ministers are aware that Maldon District Council received £5 million of levelling-up funding, but this must be spent on cultural projects. The council and I want the money to be spent on health and wellbeing as per our local plan for St Peter's Hospital closure. Will Ministers urgently review all representations?
Context
The MP is concerned that Maldon District Council, which was allocated £5 million in levelling-up funding, must spend it on cultural projects despite a local plan to close St Peter's Hospital. She seeks an urgent review of the representations.
Simon Hoare
My hon. Friend makes a powerful point; the Under-Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is aware of the issue and will be happy to meet her in quick time.
Session: Government Funding Local Authorities
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Arts venues are vital to our local culture and our communities, but they are also hotbeds for new talent to display or perform their latest works, which is critical to the UK's creative sector. Pubs are increasingly used for showing artworks as much as they are for performing music—think of pubs such as the Crown Inn back in the day, or the Hope and Anchor in Islington. That is why it is so important that we save pubs such as the Punch Bowl in Warwick, which a developer wants to convert into a house. Last year was the worst year for the closure of music venues. What is the Minister doing to stop that rate of closure?
Context
MP emphasized the importance of arts venues for local culture, talent development, and cited examples like pubs used for art displays and performances. The MP also highlighted recent closures, including a pub in Warwick.
Julia Lopez
We share the hon. Gentleman's concerns about grassroots music venues, which is why we have a specific fund set aside to help save some of the most treasured community venues. We also have the Localism Act 2011, which allows communities to designate a particular community asset of value, giving communities time to raise funds to save those kinds of assets.
Session: Artistic Spaces
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Surely it is not an adequate justification for building solar farms on 10,000 acres within a six-mile radius that Gainsborough is close to the national grid serving the old power stations. Is that not gross overdevelopment on good arable land, and should the inspector not take account of this overdevelopment?
Context
Concern about overdevelopment of arable land for solar farms.
Justin Tomlinson
I understand my right hon. Friend's raising this point. That is why it is clear in planning policy and guidance that solar projects should be directed to previously developed or non-greenfield land. That was the message we reinforced in the January national planning statement to ensure that we reduce unnecessary clustering.
Session: Large Solar Farms National Grid
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Will the Minister electrify the Chiltern route using the budget freed up from HS2?
Context
The tram system in the west midlands is experiencing delays, and the rail line between Moor Street, Snowhill and Marylebone—known as the Chiltern line—is unreliable with poor air quality due to diesel operation.
Mark Harper
There are significant plans to electrify across the network. Another thing we can do to spend money more cost-effectively is consider where battery trains can be used in order not to electrify the very expensive parts of the network. I am also aware that Chiltern is looking at modernising its rolling stock, particularly to improve air quality. All the things that the hon. Gentleman raises are absolutely in progress.
Session: Local Transport West Midlands
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Following last year's 2.8% increase, this September sees a paltry 2.5% maintenance loan increase, which is less than inflation. With a compound inflation rate of 15%, this amounts to a real-terms cut. What does the government think about students working multiple jobs just to make ends meet?
Context
The government announced a 2.5% increase in maintenance loans, which is less than inflation rates of 15%, leading to real-terms cuts. This contrasts with the Welsh Government's 3.7% increase and Scotland's additional support for students.
Robert Halfon
We have a record number of disadvantaged pupils attending university. We've increased maintenance loans by 2.8%; frozen tuition fees; provided families with up to £3,700 energy bills relief; allocated hundreds of millions to the household support fund; and introduced degree apprenticeships so students can earn while learning without loans.
Session: Student Cost of Living Support Devolved Administrations
View All Questions -->
The Government's decision to defer the banning of petrol and diesel vehicles until 2035 has led to uncertainty among consumers and investors. The questioner noted that UK lacks ambition compared to other countries such as France with plans for more charging points by 2030. He asked what plans exist to ensure the UK's investment in electric vehicle infrastructure keeps up with competitors.
Context
Concern about the UK falling behind in electric vehicle infrastructure compared to other countries, specifically France's goal of having 400,000 installations by 2030.
Nusrat Ghani
We have 53,600 public charge points and funds like the rapid charging fund and local EV infrastructure fund. The Department for Transport works with local authorities to ensure they have charging strategies. A £381 million local EV infrastructure fund will deliver tens of thousands more charging points, including support for on-street residential charge points.
Session: Infrastructure Impact on Business Investment
View All Questions -->
Since April last year, thousands of homes in my constituency have suffered from a fly infestation assumed to originate from a recycling plant. Will the Minister meet me and the Environment Agency to get this resolved?
Context
Since April last year, thousands of homes have suffered from a fly infestation assumed to originate from a recycling plant.
Robbie Moore
I am more than happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to try to deal with these issues, because for this Government dealing with waste and recycling is incredibly important. If the challenges are having an impact on householders, we need to get on top of this, and I am to meet him to discuss it.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I listened to the Minister's response to the hon. and learned Member for Edinburgh South West (Joanna Cherry), but in December I was also assured by the Minister that he was committed to the target of 600,000 international students. However, recent research from IDP has found 45% of its August and September applicants to study in the UK would consider changing their study destination if post-study work visa lengths are shortened.
Context
Concern about the potential impact of changes to postgraduate work visas on the international education strategy's sustainability.
Robert Halfon
The hon. Gentleman, the Opposition spokesman, knows that visa matters are for the Home Office. The Migration Advisory Committee is looking at the postgraduate international student visa route and will come to its conclusions. However, as I keep saying to him, our target was for over 600,000 international students a year, and we have well surpassed that.
Session: Postgraduate Research Applications Visa Changes
View All Questions -->
The Minister will know that Warwick and Leamington enjoys the greatest concentration of games companies globally. Despite acknowledging autumn statement measures, what specific actions are being taken to address the skills shortage?
Context
Warwick and Leamington, known as Silicon Spa, has a high concentration of games companies facing skills shortages.
Lucy Frazer
The creative industries sector vision includes a creative industries skills package ensuring talent pipelines from primary school to career advancement, addressing the need for skilled individuals across all stages.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Can you give your assurance that the Government remain robust in their ambition to continue attracting 600,000 international students a year as laid out in the international education strategy?
Context
International students contribute financially to UK universities, which face rising costs. The question seeks assurance that the government remains committed to its target of 600,000 international students annually.
Robert Halfon
I am absolutely committed to the target of 600,000 international students. We have surpassed it with over 680,000 students. They are a vital source of income for universities and benefit the economy.
Session: Higher Education Institutions International Students
View All Questions -->
The Minister mentioned some support measures, but recent analysis shows that students from disadvantaged backgrounds are less likely to complete degrees and get good grades when they do. The MP asked for details on the specific support provided at every stage of these students' education.
Context
The MP highlighted Higher Education Policy Institute analysis showing that students who received free school meals are less likely to complete their degree or achieve a high grade. This indicates ongoing challenges in ensuring equal opportunities.
Robert Halfon
Many universities offer bursaries to disadvantaged students, such as examples cited earlier. Our reforms aim to ensure good skills and job opportunities for degree graduates, although the SNP opposed these changes.
Session: Students Cost of Living
View All Questions -->
The Ajax fighting vehicle is proving to be something of a stealth weapon. When will the Government produce or provide the House with a statement explaining where we are up to with the project and when it will be delivered to the frontline?
Context
Concerns about the delay and lack of transparency around the Ajax fighting vehicle project.
James Cartlidge
I did give a statement to the House—I do not know whether the hon. Gentleman was present—in which I confirmed that we would learn the lessons of the Sheldon review, but, above all, confirmed the good news that Ajax was with the field Army for regular training.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
There is a deep sense of injustice among former serving officers and other military personnel that we have forgotten the moral obligation to Afghan military personnel and others who served alongside us. Will the Minister confirm just how many Afghan former military personnel are currently presenting as homeless in the UK, and how many are currently in hotels in Pakistan?
Context
Concern about homeless former Afghan military personnel in the UK and Pakistan.
James Heappey
It seems that my initial reply might have been quite useful, but the hon. Gentleman may not have heard or understood it. ARAP is not explicitly for those who served in the Afghan armed forces alongside the British military; it is for those who served in the employ of the British military.
Session: Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy
View All Questions -->
The introduction of the lifelong loan entitlement, which we all support, will inevitably require greater collaboration between higher education and further education providers, but under the current regulatory system, as the lines between HE and FE blur, we are seeing significant regulatory duplication and increased burden. This acts as a brake on partnership. Does the Minister not recognise the need to streamline the regulatory system to foster collaboration ahead of, rather than after, the introduction of the LLE?
Context
The MP supported the introduction of the lifelong loan entitlement but noted regulatory duplication as a barrier to partnership.
Robert Halfon
The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right that the lifelong loan entitlement of up to £37,000 will be transformative for millions of people across the country, enabling them to take short or modular courses at a time of their choosing. We are looking at regulation across the higher education and further education sector, and we are doing all we can to reduce it, but I recognise some of the issues he raises.
Session: Institutional Partnerships Further and Higher Education
View All Questions -->
According to PWC, the West Midlands Combined Authority that Andy Street presides over is second worst for growth figures; should the public not have a say on any potential merger under the levelling-up Bill given these circumstances?
Context
The MP points out that according to PricewaterhouseCoopers, the West Midlands Combined Authority is underperforming in terms of growth figures compared to others. The proposed merger with Warwickshire's combined authority has raised public concerns.
Michael Gove
I have great respect for the hon Gentleman but why doubt Warwickshire's ability to compete on a global stage as part of the West Midlands CA? Andy Street has done well on housing targets, unlike Labour's Sadiq Khan in London.
Session: Devolution in England
View All Questions -->
In terms of aircraft carriers, it seems that the Prince of Wales is the spare. Why are Ministers struggling to manage the repairs of that vital NATO flagship?
Context
There are concerns over the Prince of Wales aircraft carrier's repair schedule.
James Cartlidge
That is an amusing way of putting the question but it is a serious point. Our plans have not been affected in operational terms because it was always planned that the Prince of Wales would return to flight trials this autumn, and that remains on schedule.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Consumer Affairs
11 September 2025
Responding: Blair McDougall
Main Concerns
['UK consumers feel they are paying more but getting less. Products are not what they were, services are opaque, and prices vary between stores and online due to new technologies like algorithmic pricing. Trust in the food and grocery sector has fallen to a 12-year low with concerns over shrinkflation and price discrepancies.']
Specific Asks
['Calls for a consumer champion to address these issues and improve transparency in pricing strategies, including dynamic and algorithmic pricing practices and subscription traps.']
UK Video Games Industry: Contribution of Leamington Spa
09 March 2021
Main Concerns
["Matt Western highlighted the significant contribution of Leamington Spa to the UK video games industry, emphasizing its role as 'Silicon Spa'. He mentioned key titles like 'Rock Star Ate My Hamster', 'Forza Horizon', 'Dirt Rally', and 'Sonic Dash' produced in the area. The UK video games industry contributes £2.8 billion to the economy, with Leamington Spa employing over 2,000 people in 32 studios, representing more than 10% of the UK total. He noted that 75% of digital media companies in the region are gaming companies, and the area has the highest percentage of games employees in the working-age population."]
Specific Asks
['Western asked the Government to maintain and deepen video games tax relief, increase investment in intellectual property, and support trade and investment activity. He also requested sensible business-friendly immigration policies to attract global talent.']
School Closures: Support for Pupils
13 January 2021
Responding: Nick Gibb
Main Concerns
["Matt Western highlighted the significant educational loss during school closures, estimating that 575 million learning days were lost in the first lockdown. He cited a Children's Commissioner report indicating an average of five lost days per pupil in the autumn term, with some schools reporting up to 10% absenteeism. Western also noted disparities in access to digital devices and internet connectivity among disadvantaged pupils, with up to 9% of children lacking necessary equipment. Additionally, he raised concerns about increased financial pressures on schools due to sanitisation costs and staffing shortages."]
Specific Asks
['Western urged the government to provide more laptops and tablets to ensure all students have access to digital learning tools. He also called for immediate funding support for schools facing significant operational costs and stressed the need for better communication from the Department of Education regarding school closures and free school meals during holidays.']
Alternative Fuelled Vehicles: Energy Provision
06 October 2020
Responding: Nadhim Zahawi
Main Concerns
["Matt Western highlighted the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions from transport, noting that despite some progress, surface transport's contribution of CO2 emissions has remained flat at around 27% over the past decade. He pointed out the challenges faced by consumers and businesses in transitioning to alternative fuels due to high upfront investment costs and lack of certainty from the government. Western emphasized the importance of a comprehensive strategy for energy decarbonisation, infrastructure development, and consumer incentives."]
Specific Asks
['Western urged the Government to develop a multi-sector strategy that includes elements such as energy decarbonisation, infrastructure investment, and transitional consumer incentives. He also called for immediate action on charging infrastructure, with a goal of installing over 500 chargers daily to meet the 2035 target.']
Backbench Business
09 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mohamed argues that successive British Governments have acknowledged the illegality and harmful effects of Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories but have failed to take decisive ...
Defence Investment Plan
30 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Estimates Day
29 June 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
The Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy has highlighted areas needing improvement in national security, including critical infrastructure protection and defence against hybrid warfare. T...
Sudan
25 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Security Service Bill - Clause 1 (Designation of a body)
17 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to introduce new section 33A into the National Security Act 2023, enabling the Home Secretary to designate bodies involved in foreign power threat activity. This is essential given...
The Bill Name (not specified in the provided text) - Schedule 1 - Enforcement and Appeals
16 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. The speaker is moving for the second reading of Schedule 1 which focuses on enforcement measures and appeals processes in the bill.
Delegated Legislation (Committees)
16 June 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
On a point of order, I raised concern about comments attributed to the right hon. Member for North West Essex who described my right hon. Friend as acting like a Gestapo officer. This is extremely ala...
Lord Mandelson Humble Address: Government Response
01 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson: Government Response to Humble Address
19 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Debate on the Address
13 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Radford Semele Solar Farm
19 May 2025
The petitioners are concerned about the proposed development of a 49.99 MW solar farm near Radford Semele, which they believe will negatively impact local amenities, footpaths, recreational areas, and...
View Full Petition -->
Warwickshire Hunt
25 March 2024
Residents of Warwickshire are concerned about the secret protocol between Warwickshire Police and the Warwickshire Hunt following a Community Protection Notice (CPN) issued in December 2022, which was...
View Full Petition -->
Petitions
06 September 2023
The petition addresses public concern over proposals by the West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and Warwickshire County Council leader to annex Warwickshire into the West Midlands Combined Authority, whic...
View Full Petition -->
South Warwickshire Mega-Council
08 December 2021
The petition highlights concerns over the proposed merger of Warwick District Council and Stratford-on-Avon District Council, arguing that such a move could dilute local power and reduce resident enga...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
69.4%
68 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
25
25.5% of votes
No Votes
43
43.9% of votes
Abstentions
30
30.6% of votes
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
15
PMQs Asked
127
Ministerial Questions Asked
255
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
2
Statements / Bills
4
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
+310% above average
This MP:
15
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+848% above average
This MP:
127
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+5147% above average
This MP:
255
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-79% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+63% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+0% above average
This MP:
69.4
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 Matt Western's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.