Neale Hanvey
MP for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath
Alba
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Over 40,000 North sea oil and gas jobs are at risk, and neither Labour, the Tories or the SNP have lifted a finger to save Grangemouth oil refinery. With the passing of last night's Offshore Petroleum Licensing Bill, why cannot the UK Government find £80 million to secure Grangemouth's future?
Context
North sea oil and gas jobs are at risk, with over £300 billion in tax receipts from North sea oil and gas to the UK. The Offshore Petroleum Licensing Bill was passed.
Rishi Sunak
The site will remain operating as a refinery until at least May 2025. The UK and Scottish Governments are working together to make sure there are sufficient assurances in place for the support of employees. We back British North sea oil and gas, safeguarding 200,000 jobs.
Assessment
The questioner asked about providing £80 million but the answerer did not address this specific financial commitment.
Session: PMQs
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On 15 November last year, I appealed to the Prime Minister to choose de-escalation and peace over violence, death and destruction, but he called me “naive”. So far, over 26,000 souls have perished in Gaza. In a powerful and moving open letter in Monday's , the Jewish Voice for Peace Rabbinical Council cited Deuteronomy—“I have put before you life and death, blessing and curse. Choose life”—and accused President Biden of choosing death. If the Prime Minister will not listen to me or the International Court of Justice, will he listen to the Rabbinical Council, or will he call it “naive” too?
Context
The speaker previously appealed for peace, but the PM called him naive. Over 26,000 souls have perished in Gaza.
Rishi Sunak
I have been clear multiple times that we are deeply concerned about the impact on the civilian population of the fighting in Gaza. Too many people have lost their lives and there is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support in Gaza. I will not go over all the debates we have had about the conditions that are necessary for an immediate pause leading to a sustainable ceasefire, but I assure the House that we are doing everything we can to get more aid into the region as quickly as possible.
Assessment
Did not directly address whether he will listen to the Rabbinical Council's appeal
Pointing Out Previous Positions
Session: PMQs
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Why has the government's programme failed to recognise the impact on organisations across Bristol South? Does the Prime Minister agree that the Leader of the Opposition is not the right person to lead our country?
Context
The question arises from the Leader of the Opposition's visit to Scotland, where he did not address key issues related to Scottish autonomy and economic policies.
Rishi Sunak
Mr Speaker, I apologise, because I did not hear fully the hon. Gentleman's question, but from what I could gather, I think he probably agrees with me that the Leader of the Opposition is not the right person to lead our country.
Session: PMQs
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The UK Government recently confirmed that Scotland generated and sent south 35 billion kWh of energy in 2021. That number will rise to 124 billion kWh in less than eight years' time. For this multibillion-pound bounty, Scotland will see no revenue and no manufacturing or supply chain jobs. In our land of energy plenty, why should our people be cold and hungry and businesses failing as a result of his Government's robbery? What has the Prime Minister to say in defence of this naked exploitation of Scotland's people and resources?
Context
Scotland generates significant energy but receives no revenue or jobs from it.
Rishi Sunak
Actually, this Government are a strong supporter of Scotland's North sea oil and gas industry. It is the economically illiterate policy of almost all Opposition parties to prohibit any new exploration of fossil fuels in the North sea, which would have us pay billions of pounds to foreign energy companies and then ship that energy here, with twice the carbon emissions. It is a completely absurd policy that is bad for our security and bad for our economy, and that is why we are better off with the Conservatives in charge.
Assessment
Did not address Scotland's lack of revenue or manufacturing jobs from energy exports
Changing Subject To Criticize Opposition Policy
Session: PMQs
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Does the PM expect people to believe nurses are reckless? Is it not true that this Government have pushed them to their limit and they have no other option but to strike?
Context
The MP challenges the government's portrayal of NHS workers as reckless, arguing that workers are pushed to their limits.
Rishi Sunak
We respect all public sector workers, especially those in the NHS. We backed them with record funding and investment in doctors, nurses, and lifesaving equipment. We want to engage constructively in dialogue.
Assessment
Government's portrayal of NHS workers as reckless or pushing limits
Vague Commitment
Session: PMQs
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Mr Speaker, “No country that values its independence, and indeed its self-respect, could agree to a treaty that signed away our economic independence and self-government,”—[Official Report, 25 July 2019; Vol. 663, c. 1458.] and “Ultimately, membership of any union that involves the pooling of sovereignty can only be sustained with the consent of the people.”—[Official Report, 4 December 2018; Vol. 650, c. 746.] Does the Deputy Prime Minister agree with the Prime Minister and his predecessor—yes or no?
Context
The question references previous statements from the Prime Minister and his predecessor about Scotland's economic independence and sovereignty.
Dominic Raab (Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
That is why we had the referendum a few years ago. The people of Scotland have spoken, and we think it is not the right time to be relitigating that issue.
Assessment
The specific agreement with previous statements was not addressed
Relitigating The Referendum
Session: PMQs
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In the words of the Minister of State for Business, Energy and Clean Growth: “Scotland is vital for the UK's energy needs, both currently and in the future…It is also vital for our future offshore wind capabilities, and other low-carbon and renewable energies.”—[Official Report, 19 October 2021; Vol. 701, c. 615.] As he confirms, it is the rest of the UK that is dependent on Scotland, not the other way round. Does the Prime Minister not realise that his failure to invest in carbon capture and storage at St Fergus in Grangemouth and to feed the potential at Mossmorran in my constituency, is regarded as an act of deliberate economic vandalism, casting himself less as Bond and more as Blofeld the villain, for all the COP26 world to see?
Context
The Minister of State for Business, Energy and Clean Growth has confirmed Scotland's importance to the UK's energy needs. However, no investment in carbon capture at St Fergus or Mossmorran.
Boris Johnson
What the COP26 world can see is the astonishing achievements of Scotland and the rest of the UK in developing clean energy sources. I have said to the right hon. Gentleman, the leader of the hon. Gentleman's party in Westminster, that we will come back to the Aberdeen—[Interruption.] Sorry, forgive me, the hon. Gentleman is a member of a different party, but it has substantially the same agenda. We will come back to this.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not acknowledge his failure as economic vandalism.
Astonishing Achievements
Come Back To
Session: PMQs
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Why are the Government undermining superior domestic diagnostics tests while propping up discredited Chinese imports?
Context
The MP references accurate surveillance as important for vaccines. The Department of Health and Social Care promised jobs and security to domestic diagnostics tests but is now supporting discredited Chinese imports worth £3 billion.
Boris Johnson
I do not think that is an entirely fair characterisation of what the Government are doing. On the contrary, we have worked night and day to build up our domestic lateral flow capacity.
Assessment
specific ask about procurement actions
Discrediting Accusation
Reassurance Without Specifics
Session: PMQs
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Given that it would not survive under Labour, just how vital is the work plan?
Context
The MP questions the importance of the current work plan under Conservative leadership, noting that it might not survive under Labour.
Mel Stride (Secretary of State for Work and Pensions)
My right hon. Friend is entirely right to raise that point: in the absence of this Government, the work plan will be no more. The problem is that we do not know exactly what will replace it, because there is no plan from the party opposite—no plan on work capability assessments, no plan on personal independence payments, no plan on fit notes. We do not know what Labour stands for, so let us stick with the plan, and let us elect a Conservative Government at the next election.
Session: Topical Questions
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Some were asking for £10,000 compensation per person. Could the Secretary of State indicate whether he will make a decision and when?
Context
The ombudsman's report recommended compensation for women born in the 1950s, but there is no decision on the matter.
Mel Stride
The report is under detailed consideration; it is important to look carefully at the conclusions of the report and listen to what Parliament has to say.
Session: State Pension Age Changes Compensation
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What recent assessment has been made of providing compensation to women born in the 1950s affected by changes to the state pension age? The ombudsman's report recommended compensation, but the government is not acting on it. Will they now listen to public opinion and provide proper financial redress?
Context
The ombudsman's report has been laid before Parliament and is under consideration. A Scottish Daily Express report notes that seven in 10 members of the public support financial compensation for women born in the 1950s.
Mel Stride
There are a variety of opinions as to what the outcome should be, including recommendations in the ombudsman's report and counter-views. Considering the potential large sums involved, it is important to take appropriate time to consider the report thoroughly.
Session: State Pension Age Changes Compensation
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Does she accept that it would be absurd for Scotland to be the only major oil-producing nation without a refinery capacity? Will she meet me to discuss this matter further?
Context
The value of Scotland's oil exports to the EU reached £9.4 billion in 2023, with total oil exports up 14.7%, and a modest £80 million investment could triple the profitability of Grangemouth.
Kemi Badenoch
The hon. Gentleman is right to raise this issue; we are concerned about it, and UK and Scottish Governments are working together through forums like the Grangemouth Future Industry Board to understand all options for the future of the refinery.
Session: Scottish Products Overseas Promotion
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What recent discussions has she had with the Scottish Government on the promotion of Scottish products in overseas markets?
Context
The value of Scotland's oil exports to the EU reached £9.4 billion in 2023, with total oil exports up 14.7%.
Kemi Badenoch
My Department works closely with the Scottish Government and their agencies to promote Scottish products in overseas markets. We have recently delivered our Made in Scotland, Sold to the World exporter roadshow in Glasgow.
Session: Scottish Products Overseas Promotion
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Does the Secretary agree that Scotland's new First Minister should commit to factual, science-based education based on the Cass review findings?
Context
The Cass review established that social transitioning is not a neutral act and introduces significant risk of harm.
Damian Hinds
I encourage those in the Scottish Government to pay attention to Hilary Cass's report, which has brought common sense into the debate. We prioritise children's safety and have produced draft guidance underpinned by parental involvement principles.
Session: Topical Questions
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The reinstatement of a direct ferry link from the Forth estuary into Europe addresses three key objectives: an environmental objective of reducing road congestion and carbon emissions from heavy goods vehicles; improving import-export resilience; and delivering economic opportunity to Scotland. Industry agrees and ferry operators stand ready to deliver a route, but the Scottish Government lack the courage to support Project Brave. What can be done to encourage the Scottish Government to invest a modest amount of pump-prime funding to realise the economic and environmental benefits that would be felt by all across the UK?
Context
A proposed ferry link from the Forth estuary aims to reduce road congestion and carbon emissions, improve import-export resilience, and boost economic opportunities in Scotland. The project, known as Project Brave, seeks support from the Scottish Government but faces hesitation.
Anthony Browne
As ferry services are a devolved matter in Scotland, it is up to the SNP Government to decide on funding and support for the proposed ferry link. The UK Government does not subsidise such commercial operations and advises focusing efforts on the Scottish Government.
Session: New Direct Ferry Links to Mainland Europe
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If he will make an assessment of the potential merits of creating new direct ferry links to mainland Europe.
Context
There are currently multiple direct ferry links to Europe from the UK, with five new routes established since 2021. The question addresses whether there is merit in creating additional direct ferry connections.
Anthony Browne
The UK Government does not currently intend to undertake an assessment for creating new direct ferry links as they view the ferry sector as a competitive commercial market developed by private operators based on passenger and freight demand.
Session: New Direct Ferry Links to Mainland Europe
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What guarantees will the Minister provide that this vital workforce will be supported, when health budgets in all the nations of the UK are under increasing strain and NHS funding faces a £2 billion black hole?
Context
There has been a crisis brewing in community-facing nursing over the past decade, with the number of district nurses down by 40% and health visitor numbers in England and Wales falling by almost a third. NHS funding faces a £2 billion black hole.
Andrew Stephenson
Record funding is going into our NHS. In addition to the 9% increase in community nursing since 2019, we are investing over £2.4 billion in education and training through the NHS long term workforce plan, which commits to increasing training places for district nurses by 41% by the end of the decade.
Session: Community and District Nurses
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What steps she plans to take to improve the recruitment and retention of community and district nurses, given the crisis brewing over the past decade?
Context
There has been growing concern over the recruitment and retention of community and district nurses, with significant declines in numbers. Community nursing has seen a 40% drop in district nurses, and health visitor numbers have fallen by almost a third.
Andrew Stephenson
Record funding is going into our NHS. In addition to the 9% increase in community nursing since 2019, we are investing over £2.4 billion in education and training through the NHS long term workforce plan, which commits to increasing training places for district nurses by 41% by the end of the decade.
Session: Community and District Nurses
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On the annual sales limit on the People's Postcode Lottery, since the advent of the pandemic, funding and fundraising have come under increasing pressure. Saje Scotland, a domestic violence charity, was unable to access funding due to these limits. Will he at least consider an additional uplift to the annual sales limit in the interim?
Context
MP Neale Hanvey is concerned about the annual sales limit on the People's Postcode Lottery and its impact on charities.
Stuart Andrew
I think it is important to put it on record that almost every other society lottery is nowhere near those limits, but I do recognise that it may be getting tight for some of the individual trusts in the People's Postcode Lottery. We have been speaking to the Gambling Commission to see what else it can do by using some of the other trusts at its disposal to increase that funding.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is staggering to hear the Solicitor General refer to this as not serious, or imply that it is not serious. In 2023, the level of fraud reported by His Majesty's Revenue and Customs in two covid-19 financial support schemes sat between £3.3 billion and £7.3 billion, with less than £1 billion being recovered. Considering that the UK Government have already written off an alarming £8.7 billion that they spent on protective equipment bought during the pandemic, will he commit to routinely publishing accounts including the number of prosecutions and the cost of recovery for covid-19 contracts and support schemes?
Context
The MP addressed the staggering level of fraud reported by HMRC in two coronavirus financial support schemes, with a recovery rate of less than £1 billion out of £3.3 to £7.3 billion in losses and an additional write-off of £8.7 billion for protective equipment. The MP asked for a commitment to routinely publish accounts including the number of prosecutions and cost of recovery.
Robert Courts
The hon. Gentleman misunderstands my point: the SFO deals with the most complex schemes. Not for a second would I have suggested that any such fraud is not serious—of course it is—but the vast majority of the crimes to which he alludes would be dealt with by the CPS. Indeed, the CPS has charged a number of individuals with precisely those sorts of crimes.
Session: Prosecution of Fraud Covid-19
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Does the Secretary of State accept that this asymmetry on standards of animal welfare is incoherent and poses a significant risk of contaminating the food chain with banned pesticides?
Context
The UK-Australia free trade agreement has led to concerns about the import of low-cost products from Australia, which may have lower animal welfare standards compared to the UK.
Steve Barclay
The hon. Gentleman is mixing up two issues. He mentioned Australia, and specifically eggs. If he actually looked at the agreement with Australia, he would see that eggs are excluded, as are pork and poultry. He is mixing that up with the issue of food standards for imports from Europe.
Session: Animal Welfare Standards Imports and Exports
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How many prosecutions have been brought by the Serious Fraud Office for cases of fraud connected with covid-19 (a) contracts and (b) financial support schemes.
Context
The MP asked about the number of prosecutions brought by the Serious Fraud Office for cases of fraud connected with coronavirus contracts and financial support schemes.
Robert Courts
The Serious Fraud Office has brought no prosecutions for cases of fraud connected with covid-19. The SFO deals only with the most complex and serious economic crime, so the vast majority of such cases would not fall within its remit. The SFO works closely with other law enforcement agencies to ensure that intelligence is shared and the investigations are handled by the most appropriate agency.
Session: Prosecution of Fraud Covid-19
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Whether he is taking steps to improve animal welfare standards applicable to food imports and exports. Yesterday, the UK Government implemented a border target operating model in which a veterinarian must provide a health certificate for meat imports from the EU. Meanwhile, the UK-Australia free trade agreement, likely to lead to increased imports of low-cost products produced with banned pesticides, poses risks due to lower welfare standards.
Context
The UK has left the EU, leading to new controls on animal welfare and food imports. Concerns have arisen about potential risks from low-cost products imported from countries with lower welfare standards.
Steve Barclay
The hon. Gentleman is mixing up two issues. He mentioned Australia, and specifically eggs. If he actually looked at the agreement with Australia, he would see that eggs are excluded, as are pork and poultry. He is mixing that up with the issue of food standards for imports from Europe.
Session: Animal Welfare Standards Imports and Exports
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Given the statement by the former director of the Serious Fraud Office that red flags were ignored, and that Parliament's own spending watchdog estimates potential fraud of £16 billion, how much has been recovered to date and what further lessons have been learned and applied to ensure that identification and prevention of fraud is embedded across all Government Departments, and why are the UK Government not recovering that fraud with the same zeal and determination that they have for impoverishing benefit claimants who have had overpayments through no fault of their own?
Context
Concerns raised by the former director of the Serious Fraud Office that red flags were ignored and a Parliament spending watchdog estimates potential fraud of £16 billion.
Michael Tomlinson
I entirely refute and disagree with the hon. Gentleman's final comment, but he will be pleased to know that the new director of the SFO has set off apace. He has launched new investigations. There is a new energy and a new rigour within the SFO, but I repeat that it is not just the SFO that conducts such investigations; the Insolvency Service is also involved, and is also carrying out some excellent work.
Session: Covid-19 related Fraud Prosecutions
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What recent discussions has she had with the Serious Fraud Office on the prosecution of covid-19 related fraud?
Context
Discussions between the Serious Fraud Office and relevant government officials regarding the prosecution of COVID-19 related fraud cases.
Michael Tomlinson
The Attorney General and I regularly meet with the SFO director; however, the vast majority of covid fraud cases do not fall within the SFO's remit, and investigations are handled by the most appropriate agency. Recently, as the hon. Gentleman will have heard, I visited the Insolvency Service and heard about its excellent work in relation to bounce bank loans.
Session: Covid-19 related Fraud Prosecutions
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Under Westminster rule, Bathgate, Linwood, Methil and Irvine are all no more. Grangemouth now risks being added to that sorry list, and with it the hope of its developing carbon technologies. The Minister is quick to attack a Scottish Government with limited powers, but responsibility for the robbery and ruination of Scotland's energy sector, and the continued denial of substantial funding for carbon capture, rests squarely with the UK Government. What is his office doing to protect energy sector jobs and livelihoods in Scotland, and what is his Department's excuse for utterly failing the people of Scotland?
Context
The MP references the closure of Bathgate, Linwood, Methil and Irvine under Westminster rule and expresses concern over Grangemouth's fate. The question points out UK Government responsibility for carbon capture funding.
John Lamont
I had the pleasure of meeting the Cabinet Secretary from the Scottish Government this morning, together with the leader of Falkirk Council, to discuss the situation at Grangemouth. The Scottish Government and the UK Government are working together, hand in hand, to protect as many jobs as possible. The Scottish cluster is expected to include at least one project located in Grangemouth, which is welcome news.
Session: Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage
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What recent discussions has the Minister had with the Scottish Government regarding the development of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) in Scotland?
Context
The question follows recent discussions on the importance of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage projects in Scotland.
John Lamont
Carbon capture, utilisation, and storage is a vital component of our journey to net zero. The Acorn project represents a huge opportunity for the north-east of Scotland. As would be expected for any multi-billion pound project, due diligence must now be followed.
Session: Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage
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What progress has been made to strengthen them and what role will they play in measuring past activities of Ministers?
Context
A Treasury Committee report found insufficient strength in lobbying rules.
Oliver Dowden
Recommendations from the Boardman review have been implemented, including strengthening civil service contractual requirements and introducing a deed of covenant for Ministers to uphold ACOBA findings. I continue to engage with Lord Pickles about further reforms.
Session: Topical Questions
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It should go without saying that the International Criminal Court needs to be able to do its work unimpeded if it is to establish when collateral damage transcends into deliberate slaughter, or whether self-defence was in fact collective punishment. Will the Government provide a guarantee from the Dispatch Box that they will not intervene—as they did alongside the United States in 2021—against any future ICC investigation into war crimes perpetrated against the people of Gaza?
Context
The supplementary question concerns the guarantee that the UK government will not intervene against any future ICC investigation into war crimes, referring to previous actions alongside the United States.
Alex Chalk
The hon. Gentleman's original question was about the resource that we provide to the ICC. We are the second largest donor after Germany, and we have provided some additional support this year. Questions about prosecution are matters for independent prosecutors. It is not for Ministers in this Parliament to make that sort of decision: that will be a matter for independent prosecutors, whom I would expect to exercise their discretion freely and fairly.
Session: ICC Government Support
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What additional (a) financial and (b) practical support the Government plans to provide the International Criminal Court for its war crime investigations.
Context
The question addresses the financial and practical support provided by the UK government to the International Criminal Court for its war crime investigations.
Alex Chalk
The UK is one of the major funders of the International Criminal Court, and provides further practical support including sentence enforcement, pro bono expertise in victim and witness protection, and secondments. In June, I met with the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan KC, and I will remain in contact with the ICC to discuss what resources it needs to operate effectively.
Session: ICC Government Support
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Does the Minister share my relief that both main parties support retaining and renewing our nuclear deterrent? Did he also feel relieved when there was a massive majority of 355 votes for renewal, indicating how unrepresentative Scottish nationalist views are?
Context
Both main parties in the House of Commons support retaining and renewing the nuclear deterrent. There was a significant majority vote in favour of this in 2016.
James Cartlidge
I am extremely grateful to my right hon. Friend for that remark and delighted that Labour agreed with us by nodding in response to our previous answer. We all agree that, particularly now, we need a deterrent against aggressive threats.
Session: Trident Nuclear Programme
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I am concerned about the estimated costs of Trident's renewal standing at £31 billion with a further £10 billion earmarked for contingency. Containment of nuclear material is problematic and there was a near-collision incident recently. Our party's freedom of information request on WMD movement in Scotland was rebuffed. Can the Secretary of State explain the lack of transparency and justify keeping Trident, especially given its cost and danger?
Context
The estimated costs of Trident's renewal are £31 billion with an additional £10 billion for contingency. There have been issues with containment and transportation of nuclear material, including a recent near-collision incident.
James Cartlidge
I profoundly disagree about abandoning the deterrent. It would be reckless for the party opposing it, which also wants to withdraw from NATO in light of Russian aggression. We support the deterrent and will continue investing in it.
Session: Trident Nuclear Programme
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According to Office for Budget Responsibility projections, the UK will see between £50 billion and £80 billion in revenue from North Sea oil and gas over five years. While it is welcome that the Acorn project can now bid for funding, not a penny has been committed yet. Can you tell me what discussions the Secretary of State has had with Government colleagues to secure at minimum a share of those revenues—say £1 billion over five years—to rapidly accelerate Scotland's carbon capture industry? If not, does that mean he is content to see Scotland's people stripped of their vast natural resources without a single penny of that £80 billion being invested in Scotland's carbon capture ambitions?
Context
The Acorn project in Scotland has been allocated £40 million for development. However, there are concerns about the commitment to utilise North Sea oil revenues for this purpose.
John Lamont
More than £40 million has been allocated by the UK Government. The Government will engage and assess delivery plans, due diligence on Acorn and Viking transportation systems, and set out a process for selecting track 2 capture products to meet stated ambitions.
Session: Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage
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What recent discussions have you had with Cabinet colleagues on supporting carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) development in Scotland? The Acorn cluster has received over £40 million but no firm commitments. Given the UK will see between £50 billion to £80 billion from North Sea oil and gas revenue over five years, can you tell me about discussions with Government colleagues to secure at least £1 billion of those revenues for rapidly accelerating Scotland's CCUS industry?
Context
The development of carbon capture technology is crucial for Scotland's industrial transformation and economic levelling up. The Acorn cluster in Scotland has been allocated more than £40 million in funding but there are concerns about the commitment to utilise North Sea oil revenues for this purpose.
John Lamont
More than £40 million has been allocated by the UK Government to develop this technology. The Government will engage and assess delivery plans, due diligence on Acorn and Viking transportation systems, and set out a process for selecting track 2 capture products to meet stated ambitions.
Session: Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage
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With the Met police force reluctant to investigate murderous threats towards three sitting MPs for their lawfully protected beliefs and characteristics; a convicted criminal calling for violence against women at Trans Pride incoherently defended as freedom of expression by that same force; and broadcasters, journalists, faith leaders and even the Equalities and Human Rights Commissioner for Scotland all having had their bank accounts closed for what appear to be their lawfully protected characteristics, will the Minister meet me and other affected Members to consider how we tackle this dangerous misinformation, rampant homophobia and misogyny being promoted in our institutions by organisations such as Stonewall?
Context
The MP raises concerns about reluctance of law enforcement to investigate threats against MPs, controversial defences by public institutions, and closures of bank accounts due to lawful protected characteristics. The issue is framed around tackling misinformation and promoting equality.
Kemi Badenoch
I take the points that the hon. Gentleman has made very seriously, and I would be very happy to meet him. We are a free and fair society, and we must protect free speech and allow open discussion, as long as it does not break the law. On bank account closures, banks and other payment services providers occupy a privileged place in our society, and it would be a serious concern if financial services are being denied to anyone exercising their right to lawful free speech. I need to express this: a notice period of fair and open communication with a customer must apply in those situations that relate to termination on grounds other than suspected or actual criminal offences or when otherwise allowed by law. The Government are currently reviewing evidence on whether the existing payment services and account termination framework is operating effectively, or if further clarification is needed.
Session: Equality Act 2010 Public Bodies
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What steps are being taken to help ensure that public bodies implement the requirements of the Equality Act 2010?
Context
The MP is concerned about public bodies' compliance with the Equality Act 2010 and seeks measures to ensure implementation.
Kemi Badenoch
The Government have published a range of advice and guidance to help public bodies comply with the Equality Act. The Equality and Human Rights Commission also publishes technical guidance on complying with the public sector equality duty. I will shortly be reissuing my December 2021 update to Ministers on how to comply with the public sector equality duty, especially when it comes to completing equalities impact assessments, and I hope that that is distributed widely.
Session: Equality Act 2010 Public Bodies
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In November 2021, Dame Kate Bingham rightly called the decision to withdraw support for the Valneva whole virus vaccine “inexplicable” because a broad portfolio of vaccines is important as we move forward against future variants. The British Society for Immunology states that there is an urgent need for second and third-generation covid vaccines, including universal mucosal vaccines with longer-lasting protective immunity. With growing public concern and mounting clinical and scientific evidence of vaccine injury from mRNA, why is the UK not seeking to harness the power of all technologies instead of establishing an inexplicable exclusive relationship with Moderna?
Context
The question comes in the context of growing public concern and mounting clinical and scientific evidence about mRNA vaccines, and the need for a broad portfolio of vaccines.
Maria Caulfield
I confirm to the hon. Gentleman that, in the recent spring campaign, we deployed four approved vaccines—Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Novavax and Sanofi-GSK—as part of our roll-out. We are using a range of vaccines to protect us from the pandemic.
Session: Vaccine Development and Evaluation
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What steps his Department is taking to create a vaccine development and evaluation centre.
Context
The question arises in the context of establishing a vaccine development and evaluation centre.
Maria Caulfield
The vaccine development and evaluation centre, backed by £65 million for state-of-the-art facilities, at the Porton Down site has been operational since early last year. It supported the autumn vaccine roll-out and the spring vaccine roll-out earlier this year.
Session: Vaccine Development and Evaluation
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Resilient and effective routes to market are essential for trade. The congestion that is currently being experienced at Dover is a significant barrier to effective trade. We can add to that the HGV miles from Scotland to the south-east and the impact on the quantities carried, on perishables and on costs, never mind the environmental impact. Will the Minister meet me to discuss how we reintroduce direct links from Scotland to mainland Europe and ensure trade is friction-free from Scotland?
Context
The MP highlights the congestion issues at Dover impacting trade and HGV miles from Scotland to the south-east, causing delays and increased costs for perishables.
Nusrat Ghani
I do not think the hon. Member heard my answer: trade is up. The reality is that this scaremongering just has to stop. The scaremongering is basically a cover for petty nationalism, and I would ask him to be passionate about the market that matters, which is between Scotland and England.
Session: European Single Market UK Withdrawal
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What recent assessment her Department has made of the potential effect of the UK's withdrawal from the European single market on business and trade.
Context
The question addresses concerns about the impact of leaving the EU single market on UK business and trade.
Nusrat Ghani
Having regained our regulatory sovereignty now that we have left the European Union, we are now able to ensure that our regulation is tailored to the UK economy, supports our businesses and protects our consumers. Having left the single market, we can focus on UK trade with the world, where total trade is up 24%, so the answer to his question is that the effect is that total trade is up.
Session: European Single Market UK Withdrawal
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I recently met a Hongkonger living in Scotland who told me first hand about the oppressive surveillance his community faces by the Chinese state police. He said they are subject to Chinese law no matter where they are in the world. What steps is the FCDO taking with the Home Office to provide reassurance and allow direct reporting of suppression and oppression?
Context
A community member expressed fear about Chinese state police surveillance and legal repercussions.
James Cleverly
We work closely with the Home Office. The Security Minister has conducted a review, and I have made clear to the Chinese Government that such activities are unacceptable in the UK. They committed not to continue.
Session: Topical Questions
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What preparations are being made to clarify and strengthen all protected characteristics, and to ensure that freedom of speech is protected as well?
Context
The Sex Matters petition seeks to clarify the Equality Act 2010.
Damian Hinds
The review would be led by the Government Equalities Office. On transgender prisoners, my approach is that transgender women can only be held on the main women's estate if risk-assessed to be safe.
Session: Topical Questions
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Article 3 of the 1984 UN convention against torture and other cruel, unhuman or degrading treatment or punishment sets out the grounds on which a state should judge all risks of mistreatment in considering extradition. Will the Minister clarify whether the UK Government give due consideration to those provisions? Specifically, what consideration is the UK giving to providing a right of safe passage for those fleeing Sudan and South Sudan with family members in the UK? Will the Minister set out what safe, open and legal routes are available to those people?
Context
The question addresses the UK Government's adherence to international human rights law, specifically Article 3 of the UN Convention against Torture.
Damian Hinds
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his question, though I know that you would not want me to stray too far into matters that are for other Government Departments, Mr Speaker. The UK has carried out by far the longest and largest evacuation of any western country from Sudan, bringing 2,450 people to safety. Preventing a humanitarian emergency in Sudan is our top focus. Alongside the evacuation effort, we are working with international partners and the United Nations to bring an end to the fighting.
Session: UN Convention against Torture Compliance
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Whether he has received recent representations on compliance with the United Nations convention against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. The Government have received a pre-reporting list of issues from the UN Committee against Torture, as is routine. We are finalising our response.
Context
The question arises from representations received by the government regarding compliance with international human rights standards.
Damian Hinds
The Government have received a pre-reporting list of issues from the UN Committee against Torture, as is routine. We are finalising our response.
Session: UN Convention against Torture Compliance
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The financial cost of weapons of mass destruction is one thing; the potential human cost from radiation leaks is quite another. On 7 November last year, I raised concerns from a whistleblower about a serious radiation breach at Coulport on Loch Long. The Secretary of State promised that he would provide a detailed written response. Despite my persistence, six months later I have still not had a reply, other than a leak to the media saying: “The alleged radiation incident referred to…did not” take place. Will the Secretary of State confirm today from the Dispatch Box whether HMNB Clyde staff were moved from building 201 in Coulport to building 41 elsewhere due to a serious radiation breach?
Context
A whistleblower raised serious radiation breach concerns at Coulport on Loch Long in November last year, and the Secretary of State promised a detailed written response which has not been provided despite follow-ups.
James Cartlidge
Obviously, I will have to look into the matter and will write to the hon. Gentleman further. I would make one point. He talked about the other costs. If I may, while the SNP has a merely quirky position of unilateral nuclear disarmament but supposedly remaining in NATO, the position of the Alba party is both nuclear disarmament and withdrawal from NATO. What would be the cost of that policy? In the light of the current situation where Russia has invaded Ukraine, what would happen if we were to announce our withdrawal from NATO?
Session: Trident Renewal
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What recent estimate his Department has made of the (a) timescale and (b) cost of the renewal of Trident. The Dreadnought submarine programme remains within overall budget but lacks detailed cost estimates for the replacement warhead programme due to preliminary phases.
Context
The question arises from the ongoing scrutiny of the Trident nuclear deterrent system, specifically its renewal and associated costs.
James Cartlidge
The Dreadnought submarine programme remains within overall budget and on track for the first of class, HMS Dreadnought, to enter service in the early 2030s. As the programme is in its preliminary phases, it is too early to provide cost estimates for the replacement warhead programme.
Session: Trident Renewal
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I share my constituents' shock at the distasteful photoshoot of the Home Secretary outside the transportation camp in Rwanda. Will she set out the following in regards to Dungavel House? How will this whole process work? How many refugees at Dungavel House are earmarked for transportation to Rwanda? How many are children or pregnant women? If the Home Secretary cannot give us those numbers now, I am happy to receive a letter later.
Context
The question is prompted by a photoshoot of the Home Secretary outside a refugee camp in Rwanda and concerns about the process and treatment of refugees.
Robert Jenrick
Well, I share the disappointment at those who peddle misinformation of any kind. However, with respect to Dungavel House, it is an immigration removal centre and it is used routinely to detain, prior to removal, foreign national offenders and those who have entered our country illegally and whom we are seeking to remove. The hon. Gentleman and I may disagree on this issue. We on the Government side of the House want to remove foreign national offenders. We do not want them to remain in the UK.
Session: Dungavel House Immigration Removal Centre
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Whether she has had recent discussions with the Scottish Government on the operation of the Dungavel House immigration removal centre. Although immigration is not a devolved matter, I am concerned about the lack of transparency and communication around the day-to-day running of this facility.
Context
The question is prompted by concerns regarding the operation and transparency of the Dungavel House immigration removal centre.
Robert Jenrick
There is regular contact between Dungavel House immigration removal centre and relevant local stakeholders, as necessary, on issues relating to the day-to-day running of the centre. Although immigration is not a devolved matter, we will keep the Scottish Government informed should there be any significant changes.
Session: Dungavel House Immigration Removal Centre
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
UK Military Action in Iraq: Declassified Documents
13 December 2023
Responding: Robert Courts
Main Concerns
['The declassified documents from 1998 reveal that the UK government, led by Tony Blair, ignored legal advice warning against military action without UN Security Council resolution. The documents highlight concerns over legality and the human cost of war, including the loss of 179 British service personnel and an estimated 655,000 Iraqi lives according to research studies. Additionally, 1.8 million Iraqis were displaced in neighbouring countries while another 1.6 million were internally displaced by March 2023.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the Government to declassify all remaining files relating to this period and publish them publicly. He also demands an explanation for why these documents have not yet been released and when they can be expected to see publication.']
Dalgety Bay: Radioactive Contamination and Remediation Works
18 April 2023
Responding: Alex Chalk
Main Concerns
['Mr Neale Hanvey is concerned about the radioactive contamination at Dalgety Bay, which originated from aircraft debris buried after World War II. Radium, a hazardous material with a half-life of 1,600 years, was used to coat instrument panels in planes and has contaminated the site. The remediation work began only since 2011 due to public health concerns raised by local journalism. Despite assurances given by previous Defence Ministers that the cleanup would be completed by September 2022, the project remains incomplete with delays extending into 2023.']
Specific Asks
["Mr Hanvey asks the Minister for recent discussions and milestones related to the remediation of Dalgety Bay's coastline, an estimate of current costs with confirmation that all expenses will be borne by the MOD. He seeks a commitment from the Minister to visit the site during works and publish any health risk advice received regarding radioactive pollution."]
Independence Referendum for Scotland
30 November 2022
Responding: John Lamont
Main Concerns
["The lead MP is concerned about the UK Supreme Court's judgment that suggested Scotland does not possess a right to self-determination, overturning what has been accepted as the legal and historic position. He points out contradictions in history where England coerced Scotland into union against public will, and recent socio-economic policies imposed by Westminster that have harmed Scottish communities. The MP also cites international law principles of self-determination, including statements from Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher supporting this right for nations."]
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the Minister to consider the consented, legal, and democratic route by which Scotland can exercise its sovereign right to determine its own constitutional future. He wants recognition that Scotland has a right to self-determination under Scots law.']
Rule of Law
07 October 2020
Responding: Michael Ellis
Main Concerns
["The speaker is concerned about the erosion of trust in the UK Government due to repeated incidents involving breaches of the rule of law and international agreements. He mentions specific examples such as the Prime Minister's refusal to apologize for racist language, the Health Secretary's obfuscation during the pandemic, and the undermining of devolution through legislation like the United Kingdom Internal Market Bill. These actions, according to him, undermine the UK's reputation internationally and its credibility in upholding promises made."]
Specific Asks
['The speaker asks the Government to clarify why it is justified to depart from the Sewel convention without providing constitutional grounds for doing so. He also requests that the Attorney General explain her support for legislation that might breach international law or treaty obligations, emphasizing the need for consistency and adherence to international agreements.']
Building Safety and Resilience
11 September 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
I rise to open this debate on the critical issue of building safety and resilience, following last week’s publication of the Grenfell inquiry’s final report. Sir Martin Moore-Bick’s findings on an ent...
Covid-19: Response and Excess Deaths
18 April 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The motion calls for the covid-19 inquiry to investigate vaccines and therapeutics, citing concerns over untested medical treatments, hidden data, and excess deaths. Andrew Bridgen argues that these v...
Finance (No. 2) Bill
17 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Minister of State at the Treasury, Nigel Huddleston, moved that the Finance (No. 2) Bill be now read a Second time. He highlighted improvements in inflation rates, real wage growth, national insur...
Cass Review
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran-Israel Update
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Gender Non-conforming Young People
15 April 2024
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
The debate concerns the ideological capture of institutions related to gender identity and sex, particularly in healthcare. The MP highlighted how historical confusion around transvestism and homosexu...
Ceasefire in Gaza
21 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Petroleum Act 1998 (Amendment) Bill - Clause 1 - Duty to invite applications for offshore licences
20 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment proposed by Alok Sharma seeks to prevent the OGA from inviting new seaward area production application licences until a ban on flaring and venting is in place. It requires regulations to...
Death of Alexei Navalny
19 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Trident
26 January 2024
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
The MP for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath opened the debate by highlighting transparency issues surrounding the UK's Trident nuclear programme. He cited escalating costs, including £12.52 billion spent on ...
8
PMQs Asked
96
Ministerial Questions Asked
94
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+616% above average
This MP:
96
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1834% above average
This MP:
94
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 (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Neale Hanvey's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.