Nadia Whittome
MP for Nottingham East
Lab
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
In light of new data showing that 64% of children were in poverty in the Hyson Green and Arboretum ward in my constituency last March, I urge you to confirm that this Labour Government will do everything possible to eliminate child poverty. Will they not rule out abolishing the two-child benefit limit as part of their taskforce's efforts?
Context
New data shows that in March last year, 64% of children were in poverty in the Hyson Green and Arboretum ward in Nottingham East, which is the highest proportion in the east Midlands. This situation highlights the previous Conservative government's record on child poverty.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
My hon. Friend highlights the disgraceful record of the previous Government who saw an additional 900,000 children fall into poverty during their term. Labour's commitment is to reduce child poverty significantly and we are exploring all available levers including revisiting the two-child benefit limit.
Session: PMQs
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I welcome the Prime Minister to his place. Many young trans people and their families are extremely concerned about the restrictions on puberty blockers implemented by the last Government. One of my constituents, a parent of a trans child, told me: “I'm so worried about my child. I'm terrified for what this means for them and where Britain is going on these issues.” Will the Prime Minister meet young trans people, their families and organisations supporting them, so he can hear why they feel so strongly that the restrictions must be reversed?
Context
Many young trans people and their families are concerned about the restrictions on puberty blockers implemented by the last Government.
Keir Starmer
I welcome my hon. Friend back to her place. Our guiding principle must be the wellbeing of children. This is a serious Government, and we will approach that question with care, not with inflammatory dividing lines. The Cass review was clear that there is not enough evidence on the long-term impact of puberty blockers to know whether they are safe. The Health Secretary will consult organisations supporting young people and families, and I will ensure that there is a meeting with my hon. Friend and the relevant Minister as soon as that can be arranged.
Assessment
Reversing restrictions on puberty blockers
Session: PMQs
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When adult rape cases take two years, on average, to complete, it is no wonder that 62% of all rape survivors drop out of the process. Given that just 2.5% of rapes recorded last year resulted in a charge and fewer still will end in conviction, it is no wonder that the Victims' Commissioner, Rape Crisis and others have argued that rape has been effectively decriminalised in this country. Is the Prime Minister not ashamed that, because of his Government's failings, victims and survivors are being put through a living hell in our criminal justice system?
Context
Adult rape cases take an average of two years to complete, leading to a high drop-out rate among survivors. Just 2.5% of recorded rapes resulted in charges last year.
Rishi Sunak
While it is right that the hon. Lady raises this incredibly important topic, I completely disagree with her characterisation of how this Government have treated it.
Assessment
Did not address the question about handling of rape cases or shame over failures.
Disagree With Her Characterisation
Right That She Raises
Session: PMQs
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My 95-year-old constituent spent 41 hours in A&E. When will the Prime Minister admit that the NHS is collapsing because of 13 years of underfunding and do something about it, instead of blaming the nurses who are striking to save it?
Context
95-year-old constituent spent 41 hours in A&E; criticism of government's response to NHS crisis.
Rishi Sunak (Prime Minister)
First, I am very sorry to hear about the experience of the hon. Lady's elderly constituent. My sympathies go out to her, but this is not about blaming anybody. This is about recognising that the NHS, whether in Scotland, in Wales—where it is run by the Labour party—or here in England, is facing pressure as we recover from the pandemic. The right thing to do is to have a clear plan in place to work with doctors and nurses to ease that pressure.
Assessment
Acknowledging long-term underfunding or committing to specific action to address it.
Blaming The Pandemic Recovery
Not Blaming Anybody
Session: PMQs
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My condolences to the Prime Minister on the sad loss of his mother. I was privileged to be able to take the time off work that I needed to recover from post-traumatic stress disorder, but that should be a right for everyone, not a privilege. Far too many people cannot take the time off that they need because statutory sick pay at £95 a week is not enough to live on. Will the Prime Minister today commit to full sick pay at a real living wage?
Context
The question stems from concerns about the adequacy of statutory sick pay for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and other illnesses. The Health Secretary previously admitted that statutory sick pay is insufficient to live on.
Boris Johnson
As the whole House will know, what we have done is make sure that everybody who gets covid-related statutory sick pay gets it on day one. We have also ensured that most people in this country receive considerably more than statutory sick pay.
Assessment
Commitment to full sick pay at a real living wage was not explicitly addressed.
Session: PMQs
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We all know that social care is in crisis, with huge staff shortages, unmet needs and councils' finances being pushed to the brink, so it is disappointing that the King's Speech did not contain anything on social care. Given that the full Casey review is not expected until 2028 and that implementation is estimated to take up to 2036, what steps is the Minister taking now to alleviate pressures in the system? Will the Government expedite social care reforms so that we can meet our manifesto commitment on a national care service?
Context
The King's Speech did not contain anything on social care despite a manifesto commitment for a national care service. The Casey review is expected in 2028, with implementation estimated to take up to 2036.
Stephen Kinnock
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for the work she did formerly as a care worker. The Government inherited a social care system in desperate need of reform. We are taking action, including by providing over £4.6 billion of extra funding for adult social care by 2028-29 and developing the first ever fair pay agreement for care workers. Baroness Casey will submit her first report this year with recommendations on the further action we should take to move towards a national care service.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Minister outline what steps the Department is taking to increase funding and capacity for children and young people’s gender services to address unacceptably long waiting times?
Context
Puberty blockers are prescribed to non-trans youth as well, but there are concerns about long waiting times causing harm. Dr Cass recommended against a blanket ban on puberty blockers.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
We are moving towards a more holistic approach based on Dr Cass’s evidence. The Government is investing significantly in all services supporting young people presenting with gender dysphoria and distress, although specifics of funding increases or capacity improvements were not detailed.
Session: Puberty Suppressants
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What assessment has she made of the potential impact of implementing asylum policies similar to Denmark on asylum seekers and refugees? I am concerned about the dystopian nature of these policies, which are ripping up the rights and protections of people who have endured unimaginable trauma. Is this how we would want to be treated if we were fleeing for our lives?
Context
The Labour MP questioned the impact of implementing asylum policies similar to those in Denmark, which have been described as dystopian and cruel. The context involves a plan for fundamental reform to the UK's broken asylum system.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Shabana Mahmood)
We have learned lessons from international partners, including Denmark. Fundamental reform to its system has seen asylum claims at a 40-year low. The impact of this Government's plans will be to restore order and control to the border so we can be an open, tolerant, and generous country.
Session: Asylum Policies Danish Model
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Over two weeks into the ceasefire in Gaza, Israeli forces are still killing Palestinians. Many are being shot at as they attempt to return to their homes near a yellow line marked by Israel—a line that Israeli media are increasingly calling a new border. What will the Government do to ensure that this supposedly temporary yellow line does not become a permanent border and effectively cut Gaza in half?
Context
Israeli forces continue to kill Palestinians over two weeks into the ceasefire, raising concerns about the long-term viability of the yellow line marking a temporary border.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Yvette Cooper)
We have been clear that not only can we not divide Gaza, but that this first phase has to be part of the journey to a two-state solution that includes Gaza, east Jerusalem and the west bank. That is the only way we will get a just and lasting peace. Transition arrangements are set out as part of the 20-point plan, but it is really crucial that we not only maintain the original ceasefire agreement—the first phase—but that we keep making progress on the rest of the points in the 20-point plan and the second phase.
Session: Gaza Peace Plan
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I want to put on the record my thanks to the Health Secretary for coming to Nottingham last week and meeting some of the families who have been harmed by extremely serious failings in maternity services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS trust, and for his sincere commitment to them. It was clear just how moved he was by their stories. One of their asks is that the Government implement the 22 recommendations from the Shrewsbury and Telford Ockenden review, so I ask the Minister today to commit to doing that.
Context
The MP acknowledges the Health Secretary's visit to Nottingham where he met families affected by failings in maternity services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS trust, seeking a commitment on implementing 22 recommendations from the Shrewsbury and Telford Ockenden review.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
I know that my hon. Friend and other Members representing that area have supported the trust and particularly the families who have been affected. As she highlights, my right hon. Friend the Health Secretary visited last week and was deeply moved by those stories, and has committed to visiting again. The Government are working through those recommendations and will update the House shortly.
Session: Women’s Health Services
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I have been contacted by many parents who need special school places. What steps is the government taking to increase the number of special school places?
Context
Many parents in Nottingham are desperate to secure a place for their child in a special school, indicating a lack of availability.
Stephen Morgan
I appreciate my hon. Friend's concern. As she will know, this Government inherited a broken system from the previous Government. We want to make sure that all children with SEND receive the support they need to achieve and thrive. We have announced £740 million of high needs capital funding for next year for additional places.
Session: Topical Questions
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The safe state designation that the previous Government introduced was intended to allow Georgian and Indian nationals to be returned without any individualised assessment of the safety of the country for each person. In both countries, persecution of certain minorities is on the rise; that makes their inclusion on the list particularly wrong, but also highlights the wider dangers of blanket inadmissibility of asylum claims based on nationality. What steps will the Government take to ensure that individuals' asylum claims are always properly assessed?
Context
The question addresses the safe state designation for Georgia and India, where persecution of certain minorities is on the rise, highlighting issues with blanket inadmissibility based on nationality.
Angela Eagle
We regularly monitor and review the situation in countries of origin, working closely with the Foreign Office, and our resulting country policy and information notes are published on the gov.uk website. Should we assess that the troubling new law fundamentally affects the justification for Georgia's designation, we will seek to remove it from the list, using the correct parliamentary process.
Session: Safe Countries for Removal LGBT Rights
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If she will make an assessment of the potential merits of removing Georgia from her Department's list of safe countries for removals, in the context of the recent passage of legislation on LGBT rights in that country.
Context
The question pertains to the inclusion of Georgia in a list of safe countries where individuals can be removed without individual assessment, given recent legislation affecting LGBT rights.
Angela Eagle
We constantly update our assessment of LGBT rights and other factors affecting the safety of different countries, working closely with the Foreign Office and informed by regular independent reports from the chief inspector of borders and immigration. The latest update for Georgia was published last month and is available on the gov.uk website.
Session: Safe Countries for Removal LGBT Rights
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The Government have a legal and moral duty to meet our carbon emissions target. Failure to do so would consign my generation, and generations after mine, to a future of climate catastrophe, so it is beyond a joke that the Government's carbon budget delivery plan has now been ruled unlawful, not just once but twice. When will the Minister tell the flat earthers sitting behind him to stop trying to make net zero a culture war issue, and instead deliver a transition that both meets our climate obligations and improves people's living standards?
Context
The Government's carbon budget delivery plan has been ruled unlawful, potentially leading to severe climate consequences for future generations.
Justin Tomlinson
Our carbon budget delivery plan has over 300 detailed policies. We are recognised as a leader internationally, having already cut emissions by half—the first major economy to do so—with a further ambitious target to get to 68% by 2030, compared with just 55% for the shadow Secretary of State's beloved EU.
Session: Carbon Budget Delivery Plan High Court Judgment
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What assessment has been made of the potential implications for her policies of the High Court judgment of 2 May 2024 relating to the Government's carbon budget delivery plan?
Context
The High Court ruled the Government's carbon budget delivery plan unlawful, posing potential issues for climate change policies.
Justin Tomlinson
The Government are immensely proud of our record on climate change. We have cut emissions faster than any other G20 country over the last decade. The judgment contains no criticism of our detailed plans or the policies themselves, which will keep the UK on track to meet net zero by 2050.
Session: Carbon Budget Delivery Plan High Court Judgment
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Even with the national insurance cut, annual post-tax earnings for the average family remain on course to be £380 lower at the start of 2025 than they were in 2021—a gap not predicted to close until 2029. This means yet more years of lost wage growth, so when will the Government get serious about tackling the low-wage, insecure work that they have allowed to become the norm in this country?
Context
Despite measures like the national insurance cut, many families are still experiencing a decline in post-tax earnings.
Jeremy Hunt
Could I suggest, if the hon. Member really thinks that inflation falling from 11% to 3.2% is little comfort to her constituents, that she might want to talk to a few more of them, because actually it is the biggest single thing that we can do to deal with cost of living pressures. If she says, “What are we doing to tackle the scourge of low pay?” we have abolished it by raising the national living wage to £11.44 this year alone.
Session: Cost of Living 2024-05-07 (2)
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What fiscal steps is the government taking to support households with increases in the cost of living?
Context
The cost of living has increased significantly, causing financial strain for many households.
Jeremy Hunt
Over the last two years, cost of living support has totalled £96 billion, or an average of £3,400 per household. As a result, living standards, which were predicted to fall 2% last year, rose by nearly 1%, and we are on track to reach pre-pandemic living standards two years early.
Session: Cost of Living 2024-05-07 (2)
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I thank the Minister for his response, but what he says about the state of school funding is not the full picture. Schools' costs have increased much faster than funding; every single school had less real-terms funding last year than in 2010, a loss of £1,266 per pupil.
Context
Schools in Nottingham East face real-terms reductions in funding since 2010, according to the National Education Union's analysis.
Damian Hinds
We are funding high-quality education; performance in mathematics, English and science for 15-year-olds has improved dramatically since 2010. The NEU analysis is flawed as it does not include the high-needs budget growth.
Session: School Budgets since 2010
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I am concerned about the impact of real-term reductions to school budgets since 2010 on school children. Schools' costs have increased much faster than funding, with every single school having less real-terms funding last year than in 2010, a loss of £1,266 per pupil.
Context
Schools in Nottingham East face real-terms reductions in funding since 2010, according to the National Education Union's analysis.
Damian Hinds
We are funding high-quality education; performance in mathematics, English and science for 15-year-olds has improved dramatically since 2010. The NEU analysis is flawed as it does not include the high-needs budget growth.
Session: School Budgets since 2010
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Despite the Minister's disagreement, public ownership exists in our energy system. For example, 45% of our offshore wind assets are publicly owned, just not by the UK—they belong to the state-owned companies of countries such as Denmark and Norway. Publicly owned energy companies can accelerate the transition to clean energy while creating jobs, reducing bills and ensuring that the public benefit directly from our common resources.
Context
Following initial disagreement, the question focuses on examples of public ownership abroad and its potential benefits.
Justin Tomlinson
I thank the hon. Member. It is flattering: I am 48 hours into my role, and she would like to upgrade it so that I can personally be in charge of delivering energy companies. In Nottingham City Council's Robin Hood Energy case, chaired by a politician, it cost taxpayers £38 million.
Session: Public Ownership of the Energy System
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Whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of public ownership of the energy system. Despite disagreement, public ownership exists through offshore wind assets that are 45% owned by state-owned companies of countries like Denmark and Norway. Publicly owned energy companies can accelerate clean energy transition while creating jobs, reducing bills, and ensuring direct benefits to the public.
Context
The question arises from a debate on whether public ownership of the energy sector could offer benefits.
Justin Tomlinson
Properly regulated markets incentivise private capital investment in the energy sector for consumer benefit through market competition, driving efficiency and innovation. In Nottingham City Council's Robin Hood Energy case, chaired by a politician, it cost taxpayers £38 million.
Session: Public Ownership of the Energy System
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A YMCA report last year found that £1.1 billion had been cut from youth services since 2010-11—a real-terms cut of 74%. While the Government's national youth guarantee does provide a funding injection for youth services, it is nowhere near enough to reverse those cuts, and the funding is predominantly for capital investments. Will the Secretary of State commit to providing youth services with the sustainable revenue funding that they desperately need?
Context
A YMCA report found that £1.1 billion had been cut from youth services since 2010-11, a real-term cut of 74%. The Government's national youth guarantee provides some funding but not enough to reverse cuts.
Lucy Frazer (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport)
I invite the hon. Member to read a speech I gave on youth, which is a massive priority of mine. We are funding significantly through DCMS and through the National Citizen Service as well as through a number of Departments. There are Home Office funds, Justice funds, and funds through the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
Session: Topical Questions
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The recent Carbon Tracker report has highlighted significant risks in economic modelling for pension funds. Energy UK warns of lagging green energy investments. Does the Minister agree that rapidly phasing out fossil fuels and investing in a green new deal is necessary?
Context
A report found a disconnect between climate change expectations and financial system preparedness.
Gareth Davies
We are decarbonising faster than any other G7 country. Since 1990, we have reduced carbon emissions by 48% while growing the economy by 65%. This will take a balanced approach involving public and private investment.
Session: Climate Change Economic Impact
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If the UK signs a trade deal without a territorial clause defining the border between Israel and Palestine, it will be seen in legal terms as equivalent to letting Israel decide by default to include its settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories as part of Israel. Is the Minister aware that this risks a situation where, in effect, the UK recognises illegal settlements in the west bank as part of Israel, which is counter to the Government's stated policy?
Context
The Minister has restated the UK's position on settlements. The question seeks assurance that signing a free trade deal without a territorial clause defining the border between Israel and Palestine does not imply recognition of illegal settlements.
Nigel Huddleston
I refer the hon. Lady to the answer I gave a moment ago, but I wish to reiterate that it is long-standing UK foreign policy that Israeli settlements beyond the 1967 boundaries are illegal.
Session: Israel Free Trade Agreement 2023-06-29 (2)
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Recent research by a former chief competition economist to the European Commission—shared with me by Unite the union—estimates that average UK mobile phone bills could rise by up to £300 a year in the case of a merger between Three and Vodafone. Is the Secretary of State aware of that risk, and will her Department be taking any action to prevent such a merger, which would be disastrous for competition in the mobile network operator sector?
Context
Recent research suggests that a potential merger between Three and Vodafone could increase UK mobile phone bills by up to £300 annually.
Kemi Badenoch
The hon. Lady will know that we have an independent regulator, the Competition and Markets Authority, which would look at cases such as the one she raises and make a call on whether it would be harmful or beneficial to the UK economy. I trust the CMA—it has been doing a good job so far—and I look forward to seeing its read-outs on forthcoming mergers and proposals by large businesses in our country.
Session: Topical Questions
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What steps has her Department taken to ensure that the free trade agreement with Israel complies with the UK's obligations in section 5 of United Nations Security Council resolution 2334?
Context
The question pertains to the free trade agreement between the UK and Israel, focusing on whether it complies with section 5 of United Nations Security Council resolution 2334.
Nigel Huddleston
The UK's position on settlements is clear: they are illegal under international law, present an obstacle to peace and threaten the physical viability of a two-state solution. We repeatedly call on Israel to abide by its obligations under international law and have regular dialogue with Israel on legal issues relating to the occupation.
Session: Israel Free Trade Agreement 2023-06-29 (2)
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Will the Government introduce a £15 an hour minimum wage for care workers to tackle staff shortages and level up places like the east midlands, introducing an £800 million economic boost?
Context
Over one in ten social care roles are vacant. A £15 minimum wage would tackle shortages and boost the economy by £800 million.
Helen Whately
Adult social care funding increased by up to £7.5 billion in autumn statement. Workforce reforms are being developed.
Session: Topical Questions
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If the Minister will not answer my question about the Bill's future, can he at least commit to keeping the Human Rights Act on the statute book?
Context
The Human Rights Act is under threat from the proposed Bill of Rights Bill, which aims to scrap it and weaken human rights protections.
Alex Chalk
Human rights are important. I refer the hon. Lady to the answer I gave a few moments ago.
Session: Bill of Rights Bill
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Whether it remains his Department's policy to progress the Bill of Rights Bill. The Human Rights Act 1998 protects us from abuses of power, but the Bill proposes scrapping it, weakening human rights protections in UK law and making it harder for people to hold the Government and other public bodies to account.
Context
The Human Rights Act 1998 is under scrutiny with proposed changes in the form of the Bill of Rights Bill, which aims to scrap it and weaken human rights protections.
Alex Chalk
Human rights are important. I refer the hon. Lady to the answer I gave a few moments ago.
Session: Bill of Rights Bill
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In a cost-of-living crisis, 48% of private renters received rent hikes from their landlords since January 2021. Some rent increases were as much as 67%. This is fuelling poverty and homelessness. Will the Government act now to freeze rents while devising permanent solutions for spiralling housing costs?
Context
A survey by ACORN found that 48% of private renters experienced rent increases since January 2021, with some as high as 67%, contributing to financial strain and homelessness.
Felicity Buchan
The UK saw a 4.4% increase in rents from January 2023. The Government is aware of household budget pressures, hence the Treasury provided a £37 billion cost-of-living package for 2022-23 and will allocate an additional £26 billion in the coming year.
Session: Rent Controls Local Government
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If he will give local government powers to set rent controls. In a survey by ACORN in September last year, 48% of private renters received rent hikes since January 2021, with some increases as high as 67%. This is fuelling poverty and homelessness during the cost-of-living crisis. Will the Government act now to freeze rents?
Context
The question arises from a survey by the tenants' union ACORN that found 48% of private renters received rent hikes since January 2021, with some increases as high as 67%, exacerbating cost-of-living pressures and leading to poverty and homelessness.
Felicity Buchan
The Government do not support rent controls in the private rental sector, as evidence suggests they discourage investment, lead to declining property standards and may encourage illegal sub-letting. In 2023, UK rents increased by 4.4% from January onwards. The Treasury has allocated a £37 billion cost-of-living package for 2022-23 and an additional £26 billion is available in the coming year.
Session: Rent Controls Local Government
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Care workers were already struggling to get by on wages that hardly pay the bills, and now, with an escalating cost of living crisis, care workers in Nottingham and beyond are being pushed deeper into poverty. Does the Secretary of State back trade union calls for a £15 an hour minimum wage for care workers, and what steps is he taking to make this a reality?
Context
Care workers are struggling with low wages and the rising cost of living, leading to deeper poverty.
Helen Whately
Care workers should be properly paid. That includes being paid at least the national living wage, which was increased by 6.6% in April. I am also increasing the Care Quality Commission's oversight of local authority commissioning.
Session: Topical Questions
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Ten years since the abolition of the IPP, nearly 3,000 people are still in prison serving indeterminate sentences. The report calls for legislation to resentence prisoners subject to IPP sentences. Will the Secretary of State act on this recommendation?
Context
The Justice Committee report called the sentence 'irredeemably flawed', highlighting severe psychological harm and adverse impact on rehabilitation.
Brandon Lewis
The report has been published and we are considering it. We will respond in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. The MP noted recent disruptions in criminal courts due to strike action and asked for an update on the Secretary of State's actions and priorities.
Context
The new Justice Secretary's department has faced challenges such as disruptive strikes by the Criminal Bar Association.
Brandon Lewis
My immediate priority was to end disruptive strike action delaying justice in criminal courts. We agreed a new legal aid deal, ending strikes. The Government are resetting a constructive relationship with barristers to bring down court backlogs, providing timely justice for victims. Plans include more prison leavers fitted with GPS tags to deter reoffending and keep communities safe.
Session: Topical Questions
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That does not really answer my question, although I thank the Minister for his response. My question is whether he intends to extend the sentencing powers further. Although I obviously share his desire to tackle backlogs and reduce waiting times in the Crown courts, concerns have been raised that further increasing the sentencing powers of magistrates is not the right way to go about this. More defendants may elect to be tried in Crown courts anyway, and expanded powers could result in higher sentences, putting even more pressure on already overcrowded prisons and leading to an increase in Crown court appeals.
Context
Concerns have been raised about further extending sentencing powers, potentially increasing Crown court pressures and prison overcrowding.
Gareth Johnson
I make no apologies for locking up criminals. I have confidence in the good blend of district judges and justices of the peace in the magistrates courts. We have not seen how the existing increase in powers has been borne out, and we have not seen what the impact will be. We will keep that under review and, until we have that information, I cannot add anything further.
Session: Magistrates Sentencing Powers
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I thank the Minister for his reply. In Nottinghamshire last year, for cases involving rape the average time between a case arriving at the Crown court and being completed was 470 days—more than a year and three months. I am sure he agrees that this is completely unacceptable. The pilot of specialist courts to prosecute rape cases in just three areas will not tackle the root causes of the backlog, which grew long before the pandemic due to underinvestment. When will the Minister reverse these cuts and ensure everyone receives justice?
Context
In Nottinghamshire, last year the average time between a case arriving at Crown court and being completed for rape cases was 470 days. The Victims' Commissioner attributes the backlog growth before the pandemic to underinvestment.
James Cartlidge
I confirm that we put in almost half a billion pounds of funding into the spending review. This ensures that for the second year on the trot, we are removing the ceiling on sitting days in the Crown court. Provided we reduce the disruption now, we should continue to reduce the backlog and deliver swifter justice.
Session: Sexual Offences Delays to Trials
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I am concerned about delays in trials for child and adult victims of sexual offences, especially in Nottinghamshire where rape cases took an average of 470 days from arrival at Crown court to completion last year. I welcome the pilot of specialist courts but this does not address the root causes of the backlog growing before the pandemic due to underinvestment. When will these cuts be reversed to ensure everyone receives justice?
Context
In Nottinghamshire, last year the average time between a case arriving at the Crown court and being completed for rape cases was 470 days. The Victims' Commissioner attributes the backlog growth before the pandemic to underinvestment.
James Cartlidge
I acknowledge that there was a backlog before the pandemic, but it was lower than when Labour was in power. The courts collapsed due to social distancing measures during the pandemic. We have invested almost half a billion pounds in funding, removing ceilings on sitting days in Crown court this year and aiming to continue reducing the backlog for better justice.
Session: Sexual Offences Delays to Trials
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The measures that this Government are taking will not even touch the sides of the cost of living crisis, and transport policies are no exception. By contrast, Germany offers a pass for all regional and local public transport for just €9 a month, and the Irish Government have cut fares by 20%. Will the Transport Secretary consider such bold measures to ease the financial pressures on people and tackle the climate emergency?
Context
The question arises from the context of rising costs and environmental concerns, contrasting UK transport policy with Germany's €9 monthly pass and Ireland's 20% fare reduction.
Grant Shapps
I know that the hon. Lady is passionate about transport issues. I saw that she was on the picket line last week, although that, unfortunately, stopped hard-working people getting to their jobs to earn a living. I also know she will be a big fan of the recent great British rail sale, which saved the public £7 million, with lots of tickets up to half price. That was massively successful, with about 1.5 million tickets sold. I hope to repeat such exercises.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Chancellor did not pledge a single extra penny yesterday towards a green economic recovery, while wasting tens of billions on polluting new roads. Will the Secretary of State explain how that fits with the Government's so-called green industrial revolution and net zero strategy?
Context
The Chancellor's recent statement did not include additional funds for a green economic recovery, despite spending on polluting new roads.
George Eustice
Last week the Prime Minister announced a new round for the green recovery challenge fund—an additional £40 million—and the Chancellor yesterday confirmed the spending that we intend to put through the nature for climate fund as well.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will he commit to immediately reviewing all cases of neurodivergent individuals, and particularly those who face imminent deportation?
Context
There is a call to review cases of neurodivergent individuals facing deportation.
Robert Buckland
The hon. Lady raises an issue that, as she probably knows, is very close to my heart. In the White Paper, we have announced a call for evidence about neurodivergence within the criminal justice system, because I think that we can do much, much better.
Session: Topical Questions
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Successive Conservative Equalities Ministers have repeatedly stalled on publishing the results of the Gender Recognition Act 2004 consultation. Leaked reports suggest potential roll-backs on trans rights, leading to a nearly 40% increase in hate crimes against trans people this year. Does the Secretary of State agree that her delays are fuelling anti-trans sentiment?
Context
The Government has stalled on publishing the results of a consultation regarding the Gender Recognition Act, causing concern among trans rights advocates.
The Minister for Women and Equalities Elizabeth Truss
We will respond to the consultation over the summer as committed by the Prime Minister. The government is not rolling back the rights of transgender people, ensuring they can live without fear.
Session: Transgender People Discrimination
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What steps is the government taking to increase the provision of free school holiday activities and meals? Does it acknowledge the scale of child poverty and ensure that its scheme targets areas most in need?
Context
The UK government faces criticism for its approach to child poverty and hunger, with a significant number of children using food banks.
Vicky Ford (Minister for School Standards)
The government's programme already assists about 50,000 children with holiday activities and meals. It is committed to investing £1 billion for more wraparound and holiday childcare places from 2021. The minister highlights that work is the best route out of poverty, noting a reduction in childless households over the past decade.
Session: Free School Holiday Activities and Meals
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What recent equalities impact assessment has been made of the EU Withdrawal Agreement?
Context
The question concerns the assessment of the EU Withdrawal Agreement in terms of its effects on equality issues and policies.
Elizabeth Truss (Minister for Women and Equalities)
Britain has long been a world leader in ensuring that everybody has equal opportunities, from race relations legislation to the Equal Pay Act 1970. As we leave the European Union, we will continue to forge ahead in these areas.
Session: EU Withdrawal Agreement
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Sustainability and Climate Change (National Curriculum)
27 October 2021
Responding: Robin Walker
Main Concerns
['The lead MP is concerned that the current education system does not adequately prepare students for the challenges posed by climate change. She notes that even if global temperature rise is limited to 1.5°C, there will still be significant environmental, social and economic repercussions. The national curriculum barely covers climate change, with it being confined to small parts of science GCSE or optional subjects like horticulture and environmental science.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the Minister if they agree that teaching students about climate change is essential for transitioning to a low-carbon society. She requests a meeting with the Minister to discuss how to progress this campaign through government measures.']
Full name of the bill being debated - Which clause or amendment is being debated
10 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The reasoned amendment tabled by the official Opposition has been selected. The amendment aims to introduce significant changes to the bill to address issues related to [specific issue], highlighting ...
Public Office (Accountability) Bill
14 July 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
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 ...
Timms Review: Interim Report
09 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Nottingham Maternity and Neonatal Services
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Equality Act 2010: Code of Practice
01 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Energy Security
19 May 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Criticises the Government's energy policy, particularly the ban on new oil and gas licences. Emphasises the negative impact of these policies on Aberdeen, the North East of Scotland, and UK economic s...
Referral of Prime Minister to Committee of Privileges
28 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion calls for the matter of Peter Mandelson's appointment as US Ambassador to be referred to the Privileges Committee due to claims that the Prime Minister misled the House. Kemi Badenoch argue...
Backbench Business
12 February 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
The debate focuses on the importance of LGBT+ History Month, acknowledging the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights and the ongoing struggles faced by the community. Nadia Whittome emphasises her gratitude ...
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill 2026-02-03
03 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
65.3%
64 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
25
25.5% of votes
No Votes
39
39.8% of votes
Abstentions
34
34.7% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED 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
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
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
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
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
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
5
PMQs Asked
38
Ministerial Questions Asked
107
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
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 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+37% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+184% above average
This MP:
38
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
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 (%)
-6% below average
This MP:
65.3
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 Nadia Whittome's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.