Mohammad Yasin
MP for Bedford
Lab
8 Jun 2017 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The Labour Government have already delivered real investment for Bedford, including our community diagnostic centre, urgent care centre and funding for the Putnoe walk-in centre. I was pleased to open Bedford's new mental health crisis house this summer, but the in-patient mental health services that my constituents lost in 2017 have never been replaced. Will the Prime Minister commit to working with me to take the next steps towards restoring adult and young people's in-patient mental health provision in Bedford, so that my constituents can access the right care in the right place at the right time?
Context
In-patient mental health services were lost in Bedford in 2017 and have not been replaced.
Andy Burnham
That last point is the point. We have to do better on mental health services, and the Health Secretary absolutely agrees. That is why we committed in the summer to community-based mental health provision: to make it easier for people to access that provision. I am aware of my hon. Friend's concerns about Bedford hospital. I will work with the Health Secretary to address them with him.
Assessment
The commitment to work with the Health Secretary to address the concerns about Bedford hospital rather than a direct commitment to restore in-patient mental health provision.
Session: PMQs 2026-09-02
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What further pressure can the Prime Minister apply to bring about an urgent ceasefire?
Context
The UK has called for an immediate ceasefire and release of hostages in Gaza, but innocent people are still dying every day.
Keir Starmer
We have set out the urgent need for a ceasefire and will discuss, negotiate on and fight for change at the highest levels on the world stage. The alternative is protesting on street corners.
Assessment
Apply further pressure for an urgent ceasefire
We Have Set Out The Urgent Need
Highest Levels On The World Stage
Session: PMQs
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The Canadian Prime Minister claimed that the Indian Government may be linked to the killing of a Canadian Sikh activist, and now it is reported that another assassination attempt was thwarted in the US. Will the Prime Minister reassure my Sikh constituents and raise their concerns with his counterpart in India?
Context
The question is about the Canadian Prime Minister's claim linking the Indian Government to an assassination attempt. The MP seeks assurance on raising these concerns with India.
Rishi Sunak
We ensure the safety of all communities, including the Sikh community. We will continue to do everything we can for every community in our country.
Session: PMQs
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Can the Prime Minister meet with East London NHS Foundation Trust, apply common sense, and release funds to fix mental health facilities so constituents do not have to travel far?
Context
Funding for in-patient mental health services is sitting unused due to capital spending limits.
Rishi Sunak
We are putting more money into mental health services than any previous Government. The largest expansion of mental health services in a generation is at the heart of the NHS long-term plan.
Assessment
Releasing funds for repairs
Under Review
Considering
Session: PMQs
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East West Rail plans to demolish 37 homes and impact a total of 66 properties in Bedford despite strong local opposition. Why have residents' concerns been ignored? Will the government commit not to approve the plan if most residents are against it?
Context
The proposed East West Rail scheme will affect at least 66 properties in Bedford, including the demolition of 37 homes. Residents are concerned about the lack of engagement and potential loss of their homes.
Oliver Dowden
We will engage with local communities, but find it odd that Labour opposes such development despite advocating for more infrastructure and housing.
Assessment
The answer did not commit to any action regarding the residents' concerns or statutory consultation results.
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister join me in expressing my deepest condolences to those injured and affected by the explosion in a block of flats on Redwood Grove in Bedford on Monday that has sadly led to the death of one resident, with others yet to be accounted for? This is a timely reminder of the dangerous work undertaken by the fire service. Will he join me in praising the emergency service workers who were at the scene, and will he reconsider his 2% pay offer when firefighters have endured a 12% real-terms pay cut over the last decade?
Context
An explosion occurred in a block of flats on Redwood Grove, Bedford, leading to the death of one resident and injuries to others. Firefighters have faced real-term pay cuts over the last decade.
Boris Johnson
I thank the hon. Gentleman very much, and I share very much his support for the firefighters of our country. They do an incredible job, and overall it is a testament to their work that deaths from fire over a long period have, on average, been decreasing, thanks to the work that they put in. We will look at the public sector pay review body offer and do our best to fund as much as we can, but everybody knows the inflationary pressures that this country is now under. We do not want to have pay increases that are simply swallowed by price increases.
Assessment
The Prime Minister praised emergency service workers but did not commit to increasing public sector pay offers beyond considering them due to economic pressures.
We Will Look At The Public Sector Pay Review Body Offer
We Do Not Want To Have Pay Increases That Are Simply Swallowed By Price Increases
Session: PMQs
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Six out of 10 people who have died from covid-19 are disabled. Yet, during this pandemic, disabled people have seen their care cut back, have struggled to isolate without sufficient support, and have been excluded from the Government's shambolic communications. As we start Disability History Month, will the Prime Minister tell the House why disabled people have been so let down by his Government?
Context
During the pandemic, disabled people have faced challenges such as reduced care services and isolation difficulties. Additionally, they were excluded from the Government's communication efforts.
Boris Johnson
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for the question and for his campaigning on behalf of the disabled but I must reject what he says. We have done everything we can to reach out to disabled and vulnerable groups of all kinds, to give them all the advice that we think is necessary and all the support that we possibly can throughout the pandemic. I know that this has been very tough for people, and I thank them for the way that they have pulled together and followed the guidance.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not directly address why disabled individuals were let down.
Working With Partners
Session: PMQs
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How does the decision to continue not providing local mental health facilities demonstrate parity of esteem for mental healthcare as promised by his party?
Context
The constituency has been promised a new in-patient mental health facility for years, yet patients still have to travel long distances for services.
The Prime Minister
We are putting record investment into the NHS—£33.9 billion—with a total of £12 billion now going into mental healthcare, which is a record sum.
Session: PMQs
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Last week I visited Grange Academy, a special school in Kempston. Its recent bid to the condition improvement fund, in order to make desperately needed school improvements, was turned down by the Government. Will the Prime Minister urgently review the funding formula for capital and revenue, so that schools for children with special educational needs and disability are not disadvantaged simply because they have fewer pupils?
Context
Grange Academy, a special school in Kempston, had its bid to the condition improvement fund turned down.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Gentleman makes an important point. We are increasing funding for SEND schools by £780 million and ensuring that there are more of them, but I would be happy to look at the particular case he raises.
Assessment
Did not commit to urgent review or specific timeline
Increasing Funding For Send Schools
Session: PMQs
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Will you urgently increase the funding for primary care services, given the significant GP shortage and its impact on constituent health?
Context
The Cater Street surgery in Kempston was placed under special measures due to a three-month backlog of new-patient files.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
We are hiring 50,000 more nurses and 6,000 additional GPs to address the problems highlighted by the hon. Gentleman.
Session: PMQs
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For as long as the UK depends on oil and gas, global conflicts will continue to drive price hikes for my constituents in Bedford and Kempston, who face soaring bills when the price cap ends in June. Does the Secretary of State agree that lower bills should come before company profits, and will he levy a windfall tax on the fossil fuel companies, which are making billions from this crisis?
Context
The question arises from rising energy bills for constituents in Bedford and Kempston due to global conflicts driving up oil and gas prices.
Ed Miliband
As a result of decisions made by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor, we are raising significant sums from the windfall tax. We do not agree with the Opposition parties that now is the time to abolish the windfall tax; we think that is really important revenue that can help many of our constituents.
Session: Topical Questions
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Within an hour of the Government's publication of their Islamophobia definition this week, there were calls from within the Labour party for it to be weaponised to stifle free speech, but we know that there have been multiple cases of our public services being too scared of being called Islamophobic to speak freely to save women and girls from serious harm. Can the Minister explain why the Labour party thought it was worth trading the safety of women and girls for their own narrow political interests?
Context
Calls from within the Labour party to weaponise the Government's Islamophobia definition to stifle free speech have emerged, leading to concerns about the safety of women and girls.
Bridget Phillipson
What absolute rubbish. This is a serious issue. We know that there are people who want to pull our country apart, but I am proud that we live in a multi-ethnic, diverse and tolerant nation where we celebrate our shared values. It is right that we take action against anti-Muslim hatred in our country, as we take action on antisemitism, and we have set out further steps in that regard. It is completely unacceptable that anyone should face intimidation or harassment on the basis of their faith, but that is not in conflict with our fundamental belief in the right to freedom of speech.
Session: Topical Questions
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The latest report from Endometriosis UK shows that the average diagnosis time in the United Kingdom has risen to eight years and 10 months. Constituents of mine in Bedford and Kempston, including a staff member with a rare form of the condition, still face long delays for treatment. Will the Minister set improved targets and mandate GP training on recognising endometriosis in the women's health strategy to speed up diagnosis?
Context
A report from Endometriosis UK indicates an average diagnosis time of eight years and 10 months in the UK. Bedford and Kempston residents, including a staff member with a rare form of the condition, face long delays for treatment.
Bridget Phillipson
My hon. Friend is right: women often spend years being dismissed, being misdiagnosed, or just not being listened to. That is unacceptable, and we are determined to tackle it. In order to improve early diagnosis of the condition, we continue to roll out community diagnostic centres, and our renewed women's health strategy, which we will publish soon, will focus on speeding up diagnosis and treatment of both mental health and gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis.
Session: Topical Questions
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Student loan problems long predate plan 2 loans. I welcome the Government's commitment to making the system fairer after previous Governments ruined the university funding model. It is wrong that generational inequality is baked into the system, which leaves young people with debts for which they can service only the interest. Does the Minister agree that tinkering is not enough, and that fundamental reform is now urgent?
Context
Student loan problems have long predated the current plan 2 loans, and generational inequality is a concern.
Josh MacAlister
I recognise my hon. Friend's description of recent history and how we have ended up where we are today. We will consider ways to make the system fairer. As I say, there are a range of options, and we need to do it carefully.
Session: Student Loan System
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What steps her Department is taking to improve the student loans system. I am concerned about the current state of the student loans system and the fairness of it after previous Governments ruined the university funding model.
Context
The student loans system is under scrutiny for fairness and adequacy in supporting graduates. Previous government actions have raised concerns about the system's sustainability and equity.
Josh MacAlister
We will consider ways to make the student loan system fairer; there are a range of options. We need to do it carefully. We have already reintroduced maintenance grants and raised the repayment threshold to above average graduate salaries.
Session: Student Loan System
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With service charge inflation rising by 50% and leaseholders paying for defects caused by poor construction, will the Secretary of State strengthen the draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill to require fully itemised transparency in service charges, penalise landlords refusing disclosure, and create a faster, cheaper way to challenge excessive charges without a tribunal?
Context
Rising service charges are putting financial pressure on many leaseholders, with some facing increases of up to 80%. This is causing distress as properties become unsellable due to high costs.
Steve Reed
The Government recognise the financial strain rising service charges place on leaseholders. We published a consultation on 4 July last year proposing increased transparency of service charges and scrapping the presumption that leaseholders pay their landlord's legal costs, thereby removing a significant barrier to challenging poor practice. The consultation closed on 26 September; we are analysing responses.
Session: Leasehold Reform
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I welcome the new publicly owned Defence Housing Service, which is already improving conditions for service families by bringing 4,688 of the 5,088 military homes in the eastern region back into public ownership for upgrade and renewal. Does the Minister agree that we must continue investing in our armed forces—the backbone of our national security—and that after years of neglect under the last Government, Labour’s £9 billion military housing strategy is finally delivering the homes and support that our service families deserve?
Context
The Minister for Veterans and People previously announced a defence housing strategy with a £9 billion investment over ten years to upgrade, renew or rebuild 90% of military homes. The previous government was criticised for neglecting forces families in terms of housing.
The Minister for Veterans and People (Louise Sandher-Jones)
My hon. Friend is right to point out that under the previous Government, forces families were severely let down on housing. Under the plans set out in the defence housing strategy, 90% of military homes will, as he rightly notes, be upgraded, renewed or rebuilt.
Session: Armed Forces Housing
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My constituent, a migrant care worker, was asked to pay £3,600 to her employer, a private care company, for a sponsorship application that never happened. The company is now keeping the money, with no legal reason, and refusing to engage with my constituent. This is not the only case I am aware of. Will the Minister take stronger action, including suspending licences and prosecuting companies that exploit vulnerable workers?
Context
A constituent, a migrant care worker, was asked to pay £3,600 for a sponsorship application that never happened.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mike Tapp)
It is important that we hold dodgy employers to account. Penalties are in place for those employing illegal workers, as is a potential prison sentence for illegal working. In the care sector, we saw hundreds of thousands come into the country to fill a very small number of jobs, so it is right to stop this social care visa at this point.
Session: Care Companies Exploitation of Migrant Workers
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Bedfordshire’s police and crime commissioner is working hard to deliver the Government’s mission to halve violence against women and girls, tackling complex domestic abuse cases and driving a 250% increase in Clare’s law disclosures. Yet women and girls face serious online harms, including violent pornography, highlighted by Baroness Bertin and Ofcom. Given the link between online misogyny and real-world violence, what action will the Government take to ensure tech companies properly protect women and girls from serious online harms?
Context
In Bedfordshire, the police and crime commissioner is implementing measures to halve violence against women and girls. However, serious online harms like violent pornography are still a significant issue.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Alex Davies-Jones)
Making the online environment a safer place for women and girls is a priority for this Government. It is this Government who are outlawing depictions of strangulation in pornography. The Online Safety Act 2023 placed a requirement on tech platforms to proactively tackle the most harmful illegal content, much of which disproportionately affects women and girls, including harassment and intimate image abuse. Ofcom recently published guidance outlining further steps that services can take to make platforms safer for women and girls.
Session: Tackling Violence against Women and Girls
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I welcome the Government’s decision to phase out police and crime commissioners, with the savings reinvested into frontline policing. I also warmly welcome the recent grant for additional wardens to tackle antisocial behaviour hotspots. The partnership between the council, community groups and the police has reduced antisocial behaviour in Bedford town centre by nearly 15%, but much more still needs to be done. What further reforms will the forthcoming White Paper include to help Bedfordshire police get more bobbies on the beat?
Context
The MP references the government's decision to phase out police and crime commissioners, with savings reinvested into frontline policing. He mentions a recent grant for additional wardens aimed at tackling antisocial behaviour in Bedford.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
I am pleased to see the progress made, and I would love to visit again, as I did with the Prime Minister in opposition, to see that progress in action. There are two aspects to where we are, and we will be making significant changes. One is through the Crime and Policing Bill, which contains new powers for us to tackle antisocial behaviour in our town centres—respect orders being just one example. Our wider police reform will also look at the entire policing landscape in a way that the Opposition completely failed to do in government. We will make it more efficient and effective and ensure that our police are targeted where the public want them in our communities.
Session: Neighbourhood Police Officers
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On World Suicide Prevention Day, I welcome the Government’s action requiring online platforms to proactively protect users from illegal and harmful content. However, charities like the Molly Rose Foundation remain concerned that major platforms may not fully comply with UK regulations on risk assessments. What further steps is the Minister taking to ensure Ofcom enforces the law and responds robustly to any breaches?
Context
Charities like the Molly Rose Foundation are concerned about compliance with UK regulations, especially regarding risk assessments for harmful content.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Kanishka Narayan)
Ofcom has requested risk assessments from over 60 services, including smaller but high-risk platforms. The Minister acknowledges the importance of enforcing compliance with UK regulations to protect users from illegal content and harmful material online.
Session: Technology Companies Accountability
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Will the Minister ensure that the review examines why choices for birthing services are still being cut? Will he guarantee improved outcomes in maternity and perinatal care, so that all women can access safe, personalised, high-quality care?
Context
Bedford hospital's maternity services were downgraded to 'inadequate', and its home birth service was reduced. The question focuses on these specific issues.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
My hon. Friend is a strong campaigner on this issue for his constituents. The Care Quality Commission has committed to monitoring maternity services at Bedford hospitals closely, including through further inspections, to ensure that people receive safe care while improvements are implemented.
Session: Maternity Care
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What steps her Department is taking to support the growth of creative industries in Bedford constituency. Huge congratulations to the Department on securing the Universal Studios park—it is a major investment in Bedford. With the creative industries rightly a priority for growth, does the Minister agree that this success must also support grassroots venues such as Bedford’s iconic Esquires, which is now seeking community ownership through the Music Venue Trust’s “Own Our Venues” campaign? Will the Minister back efforts to protect the local institutions that nurture talented community identity?
Context
Universal Studios theme park will be a major investment in Bedford, and there is an effort to protect local institutions like Esquires through community ownership.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism (Chris Bryant)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right; it is great that the theme park is coming. The shadow Secretary of State says that it was all down to him, but he did not get it across the line. The whole point of a deal is that it is not a deal until you actually get it across the line, which we did. My hon. Friend is also right that we do not just need to develop massive theme parks; we also need small venues such as the one he refers to, where I think George Ezra has performed and where Coldplay have performed twice in the past. That is one reason I am really glad that we have now managed to get over the line a levy on arena tickets to help fund small music venues across the whole of the UK.
Session: Creative Industries Bedford
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It was encouraging to see the Prime Minister’s commitment to going further and faster towards net zero at the international energy summit last week, because not taking action on climate change will cost us much more. Does the Minister agree that clean energy is not only good for the planet, but can give my constituents in Bedford and Kempston energy security and lower bills?
Context
Encouragement from the previous question on the Prime Minister's commitment to climate action.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Kerry McCarthy)
My hon. Friend is right. Other countries are looking to us. The conference last week was a good example of us being back in the business of global leadership. Whether it is through the Global Clean Power Alliance or our national mission to be a clean energy superpower, we are spearheading the transition because it is cheaper, cleaner and more secure. His constituents will benefit from that too.
Session: UN Climate Change Conference 2025
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What discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the UK’s priorities for the UN Climate Change Conference 2025?
Context
Discussions about the UK's role in international climate negotiations.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Kerry McCarthy)
We are working closely with the Brazilian presidency to support a high-ambition outcome at COP30 in Belém which reflects the scale of the challenge and our shared 1.5° goal. That includes ambitious new nationally determined contributions and the effective implementation of the global stocktake commitments, as well as action on issues such as tackling deforestation and methane emissions.
Session: UN Climate Change Conference 2025
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In the ongoing discussion on assisted dying, one point on which we all agree in this House is the urgent need to improve palliative care. I therefore welcome the Government’s recent £100 million commitment to supporting hospices, including those that help my constituents. Can the Minister confirm whether long-term funding for hospices will be a priority in the upcoming 10-year health service plan?
Context
The Government have recently committed £100 million to supporting hospices, including those that help the questioner's constituents.
Stephen Kinnock
My hon. Friend is right that the hospice sector has been provided with the largest capital spend in a generation—£100 million. We are also providing £26 million of revenue funding to children and young people’s hospices. I can confirm that hospices will play a key role in our shift from hospitals to the community, as he set out in his question.
Session: Topical Questions
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I was pleased to see the Government’s announcement of the newly established race equality engagement group, chaired by Baroness Doreen Lawrence, a tireless campaigner against discrimination for many decades. What steps are the Government taking to recognise caste-based discrimination in law? Will that issue be the focus of the group’s work?
Context
The government has established a race equality engagement group chaired by Baroness Doreen Lawrence to tackle racial inequalities.
The Minister for Equalities (Seema Malhotra)
My hon. Friend references the race equality engagement group, which we announced yesterday. The group will strengthen the Government’s links with ethnic minority communities, enabling effective two-way dialogue on the Government’s work to tackle race equalities, and engaging on all issues. We are considering our position on caste discrimination under the Equality Act 2010, and we will update the House in due course.
Session: Ethnic Minority People Discrimination
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I am honoured to have been appointed as the UK trade envoy to Pakistan. Given the growing financial pressure on UK universities, with several leading institutions announcing job cuts amid the deepening funding crisis, what steps is the Department taking to foster stronger educational partnerships with Pakistan to help alleviate financial pressures in the sector in the UK, while supporting Pakistan’s educational goals?
Context
The question follows the announcement of increased inward investment and leveraged private sector investments in the UK. The MP references the growing financial pressure on UK universities, with several institutions facing funding crises.
The Minister for Industry (Sarah Jones)
I congratulate my hon. Friend on his appointment as the trade envoy to Pakistan. I can think of no one better, and I know he will make a big difference in that role. The Government took the decision to reappoint Professor Sir Steve Smith as our international education champion to ensure that the UK-Pakistan education partnership’s work continues as part of the international education strategy, which is now jointly led by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the Department for Education and the Department for Business and Trade. Led by Sir Steve, the UK has worked closely with the Pakistan Higher Education Commission on revising Pakistan’s new transnational education policy. That work will continue, and I am sure my hon. Friend will bring great help to it.
Session: International Investment
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My deepest condolences go to the family and friends of 17-year-old Thomas Taylor, who was fatally stabbed in Bedford last week. Bedfordshire has some of the highest knife crime rates in the country. While I welcome the increased funding for the force and the progress made on tackling knife crime in the region, will the Secretary of State ensure that the special grants awarded to Bedfordshire police in recognition of the high level of serious and violent crimes in the region are maintained? Will she outline what further steps are being taken to deter young people from carrying lethal weapons?
Context
A 17-year-old, Thomas Taylor, was fatally stabbed in Bedford last week. Bedfordshire has some of the highest knife crime rates in the country.
Yvette Cooper (The Secretary of State for the Home Department)
I think the thoughts of all of us will be with the family and friends of Thomas Taylor, who was a constituent of my hon. Friend. He is right to say that we need comprehensive work to prevent knife crime and to prevent young people from carrying knives in the first place, but also to make sure that there is swift action where crimes take place.
Session: Topical Questions
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The East of England ambulance service NHS trust remains at the highest escalation level—level 4—as call handlers in Bedford remain under immense pressure after responding to 39,000 calls between Christmas and new year. Despite the unprecedented demand, the trust is considering closing the Bedford emergency operation centre, putting nearly 200 jobs at risk. Given that resources are already stretched to the limit in Bedford, does the Secretary of State agree that we must keep experienced staff who have helped to save countless lives in the region?
Context
The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust remains at the highest escalation level, with call handlers in Bedford under immense pressure. The trust is considering closing the Bedford emergency operation centre, putting nearly 200 jobs at risk.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
My hon. Friend is right to highlight the particular problems in his constituency. Decisions on the configuration of call centres are a matter for local trusts in consultation with staff and representatives, and I encourage him to continue to engage with the trust in the interests of his constituents.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Government ensure that dentists cannot drop patients from their books without warning?
Context
Many constituents in Bedford struggle to find an NHS dentist, and some have been removed from the NHS list without prior notice.
Stephen Kinnock
My hon. Friend is right: we will reform the dental contract to rebuild dentistry in the long term and to increase access to NHS dental care, with a shift to focusing on prevention and the retention of NHS dentists. We continue to meet representatives from the British Dental Association and other representatives of the sector to discuss how we can best deliver our shared ambition to improve access for NHS dental patients.
Session: Dental Training Places East of England
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I have long supported women in Bedford born in the 1950s who have been failed by the DWP. We must do right by the WASPI women, some of whom are struggling to make ends meet. Will the Minister tell them today when the Government will respond to the report by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, which recommended a compensation scheme?
Context
The question addresses the ongoing struggle of women born in the 1950s who have been impacted by the Department of Work and Pensions' changes to their state pension age.
Emma Reynolds
The ombudsman's report is a serious report that took six years to complete and deserves serious consideration. We are carefully reviewing the details of that complex report and will come to a conclusion in the round.
Session: Women’s State Pension Age Compensation
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Will the Minister meet me to discuss a way forward to get urgently needed mental health facilities back in Bedford?
Context
Funding for mental health services in Bedford has been held back due to capital expenditure limits.
Stephen Kinnock
I would be pleased to meet him so that we can discuss this matter in greater detail.
Session: NHS Mental Health Services
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Some WASPI women in Bedford are living in severe financial hardship, having had their pension income stolen, in some cases twice. Their right to compensation has been tested and won. Given that a WASPI woman dies every 13 minutes, does the Minister agree that a compensation scheme needs to be set up immediately? It should not be a one-size-fits-all package, but it must be simple, clear and easy to operate.
Context
Women in the WASPI campaign are facing severe financial hardship due to state pension inequality, leading to a call for immediate compensation.
Mims Davies
I know that this issue is very emotive. For all of us with constituents who are worried about their pension age, I remind them that pension credit provides a safety net for people on low incomes, so they should look at the benefits calculator on gov.uk. There will be a full debate on the ombudsman's report tomorrow, and the Government will take all views into account as we identify and implement the next steps. The ombudsman's report is complex and substantial, and the investigation covers 30 years. I appreciate that all parties want to see the situation resolved as quickly as possible. As the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has said, there will be no undue delay, and we will be listening to everyone.
Session: State Pension Equality
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Whether she has had recent discussions with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on state pension equality. Ministers in the Department for Work and Pensions continue to have regular discussions about state pension inequality. We introduced the new state pension in 2016, which improves outcomes for many women. Outcomes will equalise for men and women by the early 2040s—more than a decade earlier than under the previous system.
Context
MP Mohammad Yasin has raised concerns about state pension inequality, specifically impacting women in the WASPI campaign.
Mims Davies
Ministers in the Department for Work and Pensions continue to have regular discussions about state pension inequality. We introduced the new state pension in 2016, which improves outcomes for many women. Outcomes will equalise for men and women by the early 2040s—more than a decade earlier than under the previous system.
Session: State Pension Equality
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Does the Minister accept that it is his Government's funding cuts and policy failures that have delivered a broken justice system offering little hope for reform or protection?
Context
Both Wandsworth Prison and HMP Bedford revealed issues of violence, overcrowding, self-harm, drug misuse and staff lacking experience. This is attributed to Government's funding cuts and policy failures.
Edward Argar
No, I do not accept the premise of the hon. Gentleman's question. We continue to put investment into both staff and the prison to make progress following that urgent notification.
Session: Topical Questions
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There are no providers of housing legal aid in the borough of Bedford, and the number of people living within 10 km of a provider of legal aid housing advice in England and Wales has fallen from 73% to 64% in the last decade. Does the Secretary of State agree that whatever legal redress is provided in the Renters (Reform) and Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bills will be meaningless if there is no legal aid system to enforce those reforms?
Context
There are no providers of housing legal aid in the borough of Bedford, and within England and Wales, the number of people living within 10 km of a provider of legal aid housing advice has fallen from 73% to 64% over the last decade. Mohammad Yasin is concerned about access to legal aid for enforcing renter reforms.
Alex Chalk
I hope that the hon. Gentleman will welcome the £10 million that is going to the Housing Loss Prevention Advisory Service, which is a revolutionary step to ensure that those who are at risk of eviction can access the legal aid they require in order to make their case. I respectfully invite the hon. Gentleman to come and see me so that I can discuss this with him further and he can be a voice for his constituents, signposting them to the support that is available, because it is important for them to be aware of the support that the Government are providing.
Session: Legal Aid
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What progress he has made on implementing the recommendations of the National Audit Office report on the Government's management of legal aid?
Context
The National Audit Office released a report on the Government's management of legal aid, which included several recommendations. Mohammad Yasin is seeking information on progress made in implementing these recommendations.
Alex Chalk
The National Audit Office report on the management of legal aid was a valuable piece of work, and we are considering its conclusions carefully. The Government hugely value the work of legal aid lawyers, which is why we commissioned a review of civil legal aid to identify options for the delivery of a more effective, efficient and sustainable system for legal aid providers. A Green Paper containing policy options is planned for July this year.
Session: Legal Aid
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The Colonna review was given no evidence to back up claims by the Israeli Government that UNRWA staff were involved in the 7 October attacks. Other countries have already restored funding to the aid agency, so it can continue its work feeding tens of thousands of people who are starving in Gaza, including innocent babies who are dying without milk. Will the Minister commit to refunding today? Or will he continue to risk UK complicity in using famine as a weapon of war?
Context
The MP references the Colonna review which found no evidence supporting claims by the Israeli Government against UNRWA staff, and highlights other countries restoring their funding. He asks if Britain will do the same.
Andrew Mitchell
I have set out the process by which we will judge how and when to restore funding to UNRWA, but the situation has improved in recent weeks. The hon. Member will have seen that fuel for bakeries has been restored. We are pressing for the activation of the water pipeline and, over the past week, we have been averaging more than 200 trucks each day.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Situation
View All Questions -->
Eight in 10 of the large energy companies recently surveyed by the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association agreed that the UK is falling behind in the race to become the most investable market for low-carbon technologies. What steps will the Minister take to reassure the clean energy industry that the UK is serious about the transition to net zero, which must include moving away from a commitment to max out oil and gas production?
Context
The question concerns a survey indicating that large UK energy companies believe the country is falling behind in attracting investment for low-carbon technologies.
Justin Tomlinson
I very much welcome the hon. Member's highlighting the importance of this area. I am sure that he will join me in celebrating the fact that we secured £60 billion of investment in low-carbon technology in 2023, up a staggering 71% on the previous year. We are heading in the right direction to meet our ambitious target.
Session: Net Zero Targets Business and Investors
View All Questions -->
What recent discussions have you had with businesses and investors on the Government's net zero targets?
Context
The question stems from discussions around the government's approach to achieving its net zero emissions target.
Justin Tomlinson
As a Department, our ministerial team meet regularly with industry: for example, through the hydrogen investor forum, the Offshore Wind Industry Council, the solar taskforce, the Green Jobs Delivery Group and the cross-cutting Net Zero Council, which is shortly celebrating its first anniversary.
Session: Net Zero Targets Business and Investors
View All Questions -->
My constituent Lucy owns Ride Leisure Events on Wyboston Lakes, which flooded again during Storm Henk. She cannot get insurance and her business is not entitled to compensation under the flood recovery framework because fewer than 50 properties were impacted. This is very unfair as she will not be the only one affected in Kempston.
Context
A constituent's business is ineligible for compensation due to an arbitrary decision regarding the number of properties affected by flooding.
Simon Hoare
I am sorry to hear about that case, if the hon. Gentleman writes to me with details of the business, I will look into it. The issue will be considered during the ongoing flood recovery framework review set for autumn this year.
Session: Flood Recovery Framework
View All Questions -->
What his planned timescale is for reviewing the flood recovery framework. The hon. Gentleman noted that a constituent, Lucy, owns Ride Leisure Events which was affected by Storm Henk. Despite her business being ineligible for compensation due to an arbitrary decision, she faces difficulties without insurance and within Kempston's flooding zone.
Context
The flood recovery framework's impact on businesses and constituents is under scrutiny following recent flooding incidents.
Simon Hoare
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his question. The review of the flood recovery framework has already begun and is expected to be completed by autumn this year. 2,241 properties have been identified as eligible for grant support due to Storm Henk, with payments totaling £788,743 reported so far.
Session: Flood Recovery Framework
View All Questions -->
Will the Government commit to supporting that exciting project by funding substantial road improvements?
Context
A Universal Studios theme park could bring economic prosperity and jobs to the eastern region.
Mark Harper
I am familiar with that scheme and know that the Chancellor has been involved. The Government will look carefully at proposals and want to ensure that exciting proposals come to fruition.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Will the UK Government redouble their efforts to ensure that the humanitarian needs of women and girls in Gaza are being addressed, in line with the UK's commitments under various strategies?
Context
The UK Government has international commitments to address humanitarian needs of women and girls in conflict situations, such as the ones ongoing in Gaza.
Kemi Badenoch
I am working closely with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on this issue. We are very concerned about events in both Israel and Gaza and want to see the violence end. We will continue to do everything we can to minimise any impact on women and girls.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Only 14% of 150,000 eligible applicants to the compensation scheme have received redress. Will the Government learn lessons from the Horizon scandal and listen to victims and campaign groups who are calling on them to lower the burden of proof for claims, and ensure that legal aid is guaranteed to all eligible claimants?
Context
Only 14% of 150,000 eligible applicants to the Windrush compensation scheme have received redress. There are calls for lowering burden of proof and ensuring legal aid.
Laura Farris
So far, £75 million has been paid out on more than 2,000 claims. I gently say to the hon. Gentleman that it is not appropriate to draw precise equivalence with things like the Horizon scheme, because that involved a judicial process, with different facts, different losses and different harms. However, we have been making consistent improvements to the compensation scheme, including making it easier for applicants to use, and we have rapidly accelerated the speed at which we make our payments.
Session: Windrush Compensation Scheme
View All Questions -->
Gender bias plays a key role in the misdiagnosis and under-diagnosis of conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism in women and girls. What action are the Government taking to ensure that every girl with special educational needs receives support from their school or college, as she is entitled to by law?
Context
Gender bias affects the diagnosis and support for conditions like ADHD and autism in women and girls.
Maria Caulfield
We are working with 42 integrated care boards across the country to improve timelines for diagnosis of autism and ADHD. Some ICBs are doing well, but others need help.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I thank the Minister for her answer, but let me correct her. Since 2014, the number of GP practices in Bedford and Kempston has decreased from 18 to 11; there are fewer doctors while the patient list has increased; and the number of patients per qualified GP now stands at 2,812, which is a rise of 60%. Will the Minister apologise to GPs and my constituents for decimated NHS primary care services?
Context
The MP inquires about the closure of GP practices and seeks support from the Minister.
Andrea Leadsom
The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that 50 million more appointments between 2019 and now is a fantastic increase. There are just under 4,000 new GPs since 2019, and the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that through the post-covid recovery plan to improve access we have said to GP practices that they should provide urgent appointments on the same day and for every patient within two weeks.
Session: Primary Care Patient Access
View All Questions -->
I am concerned about the decrease in GP practices and the increase in patient-to-GP ratios. Since 2014, the number of GP practices in Bedford and Kempston has decreased from 18 to 11; there are fewer doctors while the patient list has increased; and the number of patients per qualified GP now stands at 2,812, which is a rise of 60%. Will the Minister apologise to GPs and my constituents for decimated NHS primary care services?
Context
The MP notes that the number of GP practices in Bedford and Kempston has decreased from 18 to 11 since 2014, with fewer doctors serving more patients.
Andrea Leadsom
The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that 50 million more appointments between 2019 and now is a fantastic increase. There are just under 4,000 new GPs since 2019, and the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that through the post-covid recovery plan to improve access we have said to GP practices that they should provide urgent appointments on the same day and for every patient within two weeks.
Session: Primary Care Patient Access
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State commit to a review into the role of those excessive, unpredictable and often opaque fees and insurance costs that not only treat mostly new homeowners as cash cows, but are putting their homes at risk?
Context
Sacha from Kempston, Bedford, is one of an increasing number of freeholders affected by excessive and opaque estate maintenance charges.
Michael Gove
That is a very important point, and yes, we are on it.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Universities: Funding and Employment
02 April 2025
Responding: Janet Daby
Main Concerns
["The UK's higher education sector is facing a severe financial crisis with over 5,000 job cuts already announced and projections of more than 10,000 jobs being lost this year. The University of Bedfordshire plans to cut over 200 jobs due to financial challenges. Tuition fees fail to cover actual costs, international student numbers have declined from 5,270 in 2023 to just over 2,000 in 2025, and the amount of income English universities receive for teaching home students has declined since 2015-16."]
Specific Asks
['The government needs to improve the funding model which currently relies heavily on fees and student loans, as well as address the decline in Government investment that contributes to university deficits.']
Oral Health and Dentistry: England
25 May 2021
Responding: Jo Churchill
Main Concerns
['NHS dentistry in England is in crisis with severe access issues, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women. The system suffered from chronic underfunding before the pandemic, leading to a backlog of 30 million missed appointments. Inequalities have widened during the lockdown period, with low-income and ethnic minority communities being disproportionately affected.']
Specific Asks
['The Government needs to reform the Units of Dental Activity (UDA) system which disincentivizes dentists from taking on new NHS patients. The Minister should also explain why England took a different approach compared to Wales and Northern Ireland in setting post-pandemic activity targets for dentists.']
Ukraine and Russia
10 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Building Homes and Renewing Communities
03 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
East Midland Railway Collision
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East
09 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Knife Crime
14 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East
23 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Middle East: Defence
09 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Schools White Paper: Every Child Achieving and Thriving
23 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Water White Paper 2026-01-21
21 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
81.6%
80 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
32
32.7% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
18
18.4% 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
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
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
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
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
10
PMQs Asked
104
Ministerial Questions Asked
107
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+173% above average
This MP:
10
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+676% above average
This MP:
104
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2102% above average
This MP:
107
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+18% above average
This MP:
81.6
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Mohammad Yasin's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.