Nick Timothy
MP for West Suffolk
Con
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The Home Secretary says that we should judge her success in smashing the gangs by whether the number of channel crossings falls, but under this Government the numbers are up by more than 30%. By which date should we judge the Home Secretary, and if she fails, will she be fired?
Context
The number of migrants crossing the channel has increased by more than 30% under this Government, while the Home Secretary claims success will be judged by a reduction in these crossings.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Angela Rayner)
We are getting on with the job, working internationally to disrupt the abhorrent work of these smugglers and gangs, while the hon. Member harps on from the sidelines. He should apologise for their record in government, which was abysmal.
Assessment
Did not address the specific dates or consequences related to reducing illegal immigration.
Harped Back At The Questioner
Refused To Engage With The Substance Of The Question
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Does the Minister predict that court backlogs will get worse when the right hon. Member for Makerfield takes over?
Context
The MP questions the Minister's position if a new leader scraps jury trial policy.
Sarah Sackman
I think the hon. Gentleman is referring to an interview with my right hon. Friend the Member for Makerfield that took place in December, well before this House voted conclusively on Second Reading. Any ministerial team would have to take on this challenge. Unlike the Conservatives, we will not duck it. What my right hon. Friend the Member for Makerfield actually said was that we need to pause and reflect.
Session: Jury Trials 2026-06-30
View All Questions -->
Mr Speaker, you will be alarmed to know that one in seven NHS staff experienced a physical attack while on shift last year. Our paramedics, doctors, nurses, police officers and firefighters go to work every day to save lives, yet they face unimaginable abuse. We have to clamp down on those who perpetrate these vile attacks. Will the Secretary of State commit to reviewing sentencing guidelines for such heinous crimes?
Context
One in seven NHS staff experienced a physical attack while on shift last year. These attacks are unimaginable abuses against those who save lives daily.
Jake Richards
That is an absolutely shocking figure, and I pay tribute to all NHS staff and frontline public service workers. I meet the chair of the Sentencing Council regularly to discuss issues, and I will raise this one with her as well.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-06-30
View All Questions -->
Does the Minister predict that court backlogs will get worse when the right hon. Member for Makerfield takes over?
Context
The MP questions the predictability of court backlogs under a new leadership.
Sarah Sackman
The hon. Gentleman mischaracterises the Government's policy, as so many do. We are preserving jury trials as a cornerstone of British justice, but it is no justice at all if someone is waiting years for that jury trial. When witnesses and complainants pull out of the process and those trials collapse, that is no justice at all, whoever is in charge.
Session: Jury Trials 2026-06-30
View All Questions -->
What the Justice Secretary just said about the record of the last Government was factually untrue, and he should withdraw it. He does not want to admit it, but it is his policy to send fewer knife criminals to jail. That is why he just said what he did. His White Paper was announced yesterday, and buried in it, on page 46—he can read it again—is his plan to not just go soft on young criminals, but make others, including vulnerable adults and young adults…subject to a different process. That is wrong. Can the Justice Secretary rule out weaker sentences, and a target of reducing imprisonment rates for any adult criminals?
Context
The question follows a reference to the Justice Secretary's White Paper and addresses concerns about its impact on sentencing for adult criminals, focusing on softer sentences.
David Lammy
The hon. Gentleman left us with a prison capacity crisis. The last Government had success in reducing the number of young people in prison—he knows it, and the record is there—and I worked with Michael Gove and David Cameron as they set out on that mission. The strategy we published yesterday puts public protection first. There will always be young people who have to be in custody, but we are determined to reduce the number of young people on remand in particular by working with the most vulnerable.
Session: Knife Crime Strategy
View All Questions -->
What the Justice Secretary just said about the record of the last Government was factually untrue, and he should withdraw it. He does not want to admit it, but it is his policy to send fewer knife criminals to jail. That is why he just said what he did. His White Paper was announced yesterday, and buried in it, on page 46—he can read it again—is his plan to not just go soft on young criminals, but make others, including vulnerable adults and young adults…subject to a different process. That is wrong. Can the Justice Secretary rule out weaker sentences, and a target of reducing imprisonment rates for any adult criminals?
Context
The question builds on a previous statement and references the Justice Secretary's White Paper. It focuses on policies that would reduce imprisonment rates for adult criminals, questioning the government's approach.
David Lammy
The hon. Gentleman left us with a prison capacity crisis. The last Government had success in reducing the number of young people in prison—he knows it, and the record is there—and I worked with Michael Gove and David Cameron as they set out on that mission. The strategy we published yesterday puts public protection first. There will always be young people who have to be in custody, but we are determined to reduce the number of young people on remand in particular by working with the most vulnerable.
Session: Knife Crime Strategy
View All Questions -->
Why has the CPS refused to prosecute those chanting ' 'Globalise the intifada' when inciting violence against Jewish communities? Why won't the Justice Secretary change the law to ensure these people face justice?
Context
Two recent marches in London saw one condemned by the Justice Secretary, while another anti-Israel march went unaddressed. Chants demanding intifada revolution and calls for attacks on British Jews were heard.
David Lammy
Everyone inciting violence against Jewish communities in our country must face the full force of the law. The CPS updated its guidance on hate crimes on 5 May to ensure people face the law as they should.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I think the public will be disappointed by this behaviour. The Justice Secretary cannot get his story straight. Like the Prime Minister, he once said: “Criminal trials without juries are a bad idea”. Now he says they are a good idea, with his justification for this change changing by the minute. Last week, 10 Labour MPs voted against the courts Bill and 90 abstained. They are looking for a compromise—not in the House of Lords, but while the Bill is in this House. The Justice Secretary just refused to agree a sunset clause in answer to my hon. Friend the Member for Broadland and Fakenham (Jerome Mayhew), so, for the sake of the 100 Labour MPs who do not trust him or his intentions, I will ask again: will he consider a sunset clause, or will he tell his own MPs no?
Context
The Justice Secretary's stance on criminal trials without juries has shifted, causing confusion. Previously, he opposed such trials but now supports them, changing his justification frequently.
David Lammy
I have to say, the hon. Gentleman has not apologised for the state that the Conservatives left the criminal justice system in, closing 40% of court buildings in England—[Interruption.]
Session: Jury Trials
View All Questions -->
I join the Justice Secretary in sending condolences to the family of Jeff Blair. I also pay tribute to the shadow Solicitor General, my hon. Friend the Member for Maidstone and Malling (Helen Grant), for her successful campaign for a child cruelty register. The Government have published their Islamophobia definition, rebranded as a definition of anti-Muslim hostility. We are told that the definition is non-statutory but it is designed to influence official decision making, so will the Justice Secretary make it clear right now that the definition will not be adopted by the police, prosecutors or the judiciary?
Context
The Government have published a non-statutory definition of anti-Muslim hostility.
David Lammy
The hon. Gentleman will recognise that those are independent bodies, but it is not a statutory definition. It seeks to allow us to intervene to bear down on the rising Islamic/Muslim hate that we are seeing across the country, just as we have had to do to deal with antisemitism and racism more generally.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Without any kind of mandate, the Government want to scrap jury trials and limit appeal rights; will the Solicitor General confirm that more than 40% of appeals from magistrates courts were upheld? Is it the policy to live with such miscarriages of justice?
Context
The Government want to do away with jury trials and extend the powers of magistrates to sentence people for up to two years without a right to appeal. More than 40% of appeals from magistrates courts last year were upheld.
The Solicitor General (Ellie Reeves)
The hon. Gentleman is wrong to say that we are getting rid of jury trials. I will say it again: less than 3% of cases are currently heard by a jury. Under the proposals, some cases would be heard by a Crown court bench, or by the magistrates courts. When we are facing backlogs of up to three years and rape victims are not having their cases heard, doing nothing is not an option.
Session: Jury Trials
View All Questions -->
Happy Christmas to you, Mr Speaker, and to all Members and staff of the House. At the Liaison Committee this week, the Prime Minister admitted that some farmers will take their own lives because of the family farms tax, but he repeated the claim that three quarters of farms will not be affected. According to the National Farmers Union, the opposite is true: three quarters of commercial family farms will have to pay it. The big idea now is to drive up profitability, but as my right hon Friend the Member for New Forest West (Sir Desmond Swayne) said, the family farms tax is killing investment. Does the Minister think that Baroness Batters was wrong when she said in her report, on page 4, that the closure of the sustainable farming initiative and the family farms tax have left farmers particularly in the arable sector questioning viability, let alone profitability?
Context
The National Farmers Union reports that three-quarters of commercial family farms will be affected by the family farm tax. The Prime Minister previously acknowledged that some farmers may take their own lives due to this tax.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Dame Angela Eagle)
I do not think that the hon Member’s characterisation of the Prime Minister’s remarks to the Liaison Committee is entirely accurate, but I am working on introducing and making available in the first half of next year a sustainable farming incentive scheme that will hopefully be more available to smaller farmers, easier to engage with, and much simpler than the mess delivered by the Government of which he was a part. Let us face it: 25% of the money in the SFI scheme goes to the top 4% of farmers. I want to see a different distribution.
Session: Agricultural and Business Property Relief Food Prices
View All Questions -->
The White House has expressed concerns about sensitive cables that run under Royal Mint Court, as have the Dutch, Swiss and Swedish Governments. I understand that the Foreign Office has denied the presence of such cables to the US Government, and the Cabinet Office has denied it to the press. Will the Foreign Secretary stand up and make it very clear to the House of Commons that no such cables run beneath or near the site—yes or no?
Context
The White House and other foreign governments have expressed concerns about sensitive cables running under Royal Mint Court. The Foreign Office has denied the presence of such cables to both the US Government and the press.
Yvette Cooper
We always make national security considerations a central priority, and we continue to hold a range of discussions on national security issues with the US and other partners. Under the hon. Gentleman’s party, the Defence Secretary was sacked for leaking national security information and the Home Secretary was sacked for national security breaches, and the Conservatives left us with the smallest Army since the time of Napoleon. We will not take any lectures from them.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
We know that academics at British universities have been harassed by Chinese agents and pressured by their own administrators to censor their work. Sheffield Hallam, for example, blocked research by Professor Laura Murphy into the treatment of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang. Ministers make noises, but we have not yet had any action. Following on from the question from my right hon. Friend the Member for Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge (Sir Gavin Williamson), when will the free speech legislation be enacted? Will Ministers commit to closing down every single Confucius institute in the country?
Context
Academics at British universities have been harassed by Chinese agents and pressured to censor their work. For example, Sheffield Hallam blocked research into the treatment of Uyghur Muslims.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
The hon. Gentleman references a particular institution, and the House will appreciate that I am not in a position to comment, given the ongoing investigations in that area. I can be clear to this House that any attempt to intimidate and coerce universities will not be tolerated. I should also be clear that as a country, we welcome Chinese students. Chinese students enrich our campuses and our communities. They will always be welcome, but where there is evidence of concerning behaviour or attempts to intimidate, universities can and must take action.
Session: Universities Chinese Influence
View All Questions -->
The special needs budget mess is not the only uncertainty caused by this Government. The special needs White Paper is overdue, and 44 approved mainstream free schools and a number of approved special needs schools are in limbo. Schools, trusts or councils that want to open new special needs schools do not know the policy, the budget, or whether they will be allowed to open at all, so by what date will we get the White Paper? When will we get an answer to the budget mess, and when will we be told whether those free schools can go ahead?
Context
The special needs budget is uncertain, the White Paper is overdue, and many approved schools are in limbo. There is a list of special school projects that require decisions.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
The reason this Government need to create a policy and a budget for this system is that it was left in a complete mess—not that many months ago, the former Education Secretary described it as a “lose, lose, lose” situation. Getting the special educational needs system right and fixing it will take time, but we have already put £740 million of capital into the system. As the hon. Member highlighted, there is a list of special school projects; we are looking through those projects now, and will make a decision very soon.
Session: Free School Applications
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to reduce the time taken to procure drones for the armed forces. The biggest drone manufacturer in Ukraine, Ukrspecsystems, is investing £200 million in Britain, opening a factory in Mildenhall in the west of my county and creating 500 jobs directly and through the supply chain. However, like all manufacturers, it is facing rising energy costs and a tax bill that is likely to go up. If the Minister wants greater drone capacity in Britain, what conversations is he having with his colleagues in the Energy Department and the Business Department to ensure that the whole Government are pulling in the same direction?
Context
The question pertains to reducing the time taken to procure drones for the UK Armed Forces, following concerns raised by Ukrainian drone manufacturer Ukrspecsystems investing in Britain and facing rising costs. The context includes discussions on Ukraine's conflict and the strategic defence review.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Al Carns)
The uncrewed centre of excellence is trying to pull all of Government together to make the system easier to deal with for small and medium-sized enterprises. I pay tribute to Ukrspecsystems, which has been providing drones to Ukraine for the past three years. They have been used to very high effect in that country.
Session: Drone Procurement
View All Questions -->
There are reports that Jonathan Powell wrote a box note to the Prime Minister on the China spy trial. When No. 10 was asked about this, the official spokesman said that it was for the Cabinet Office to answer, and as Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, the right hon. Gentleman is uniquely placed to tell us. Did Powell write a box note to the Prime Minister —yes or no?
Context
There are reports that Jonathan Powell wrote a box note to the Prime Minister on the China spy trial. When No. 10 was asked about this, the official spokesman said that it was for the Cabinet Office to answer.
Darren Jones (Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister)
No.
Session: Strengthening National Security
View All Questions -->
On higher-level learning, universities have spent at least £2.5 million since the attacks of 7 October on additional security for anti-Israel protests and the clean-up operations that follow, yet many of the disciplinary cases against those disrupting study have been dropped. Will the Secretary of State confirm how many students have been expelled or disciplined for causing criminal damage, inciting violence and chanting antisemitic abuse?
Context
Universities have spent at least £2.5 million since the attacks of 7 October on additional security for anti-Israel protests and subsequent clean-up operations, yet many disciplinary cases against those disrupting study have been dropped.
Bridget Phillipson (The Secretary of State for Education)
Let me be absolutely clear: there is no place on our university campuses, in our schools or anywhere in our society for antisemitism, and I send that message loud and clear. That is the message that I have extended to university vice-chancellors, who should be in no doubt that we expect to see action on campus on this very serious issue. That is why we are putting more funding into training and support, including in our universities where we expect to see action, because there can be no excuse for Jewish students feeling unsafe on campus.
Session: Higher-level Learning Target
View All Questions -->
One year ago, the Education Secretary paused plans to open 44 approved free schools. In January, she said that she was “working rapidly” to make a decision. That was nine months ago—enough time to make a baby, but not enough time for her to make up her mind. When will our Ministers tell those free school founders—among whom are some of the best education leaders in the country—if they can open great new schools?
Context
The Education Secretary paused plans to open 44 approved free schools, and nine months later there is still no decision made on these plans.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
There is a choice here. We are debating how the Government, within only a few months of being elected, are making big progress across the education system. That includes big decisions made at fiscal events to invest capital into programmes such as this one, which at every opportunity the Conservatives have failed to support. We are able to make these decisions to improve our school estate only because of the decisions made at fiscal events.
Session: Free Schools Application Decisions
View All Questions -->
In 2018, a definition of Islamophobia was provided that suggested discussing rape gangs or Muslim Brotherhood entryism could be seen as 'anti-Muslim racism'. The Home Secretary endorsed this. Does she still believe these activities are protected under the term Islamophobia?
Context
The definition of Islamophobia by the all-party parliamentary group on British Muslims has been controversial, raising concerns about freedom of speech and addressing religious-based criminality.
Shabana Mahmood
That definition sought to give context to patterns of behaviour. Let me be clear for the hon. Gentleman and the whole House: there is absolutely no excuse for, or hiding of, the criminality of those who engage in heinous crimes such as those involving rape or grooming gangs. That is why the Government will take forward the Casey recommendations and have that national inquiry. He knows that the Government are working with a working group on a definition of Islamophobia. We have been absolutely clear that we will not pursue any measures that would impinge on our ancient right of freedom of speech.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What does it say to Britain’s allies, and to our enemies, when neither the Foreign Secretary nor the Prime Minister can bring themselves to say that the strikes again Iran were right and legal?
Context
The question addresses the diplomatic stance of the UK following military actions against Iran.
David Lammy
I have spoken to Secretary of State Rubio every single week that I have been in office. The Prime Minister and the President of the United States have the best of relationships. That is a signal of how well our special relationship is working.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Energy Secretary has said that there is a “principled case” for removing green taxes from electricity bills, and the cost being met by increases in green taxes on gas bills. That would be a net tax rise for every household—80% of the country—that uses gas. This was not an argument that he made before the election, so can the Minister take this opportunity to rule out any increase in taxes, charges or levies on gas bills?
Context
The MP questioned the Energy Secretary's proposal to remove green taxes from electricity bills, noting it would be a net tax rise for households.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Michael Shanks)
On the Government Benches, we are trying to cut people’s bills as quickly as possible. The hon. Gentleman was a core part of a Government who failed to do that for many years.
Session: Decoupling Electricity and Gas Prices
View All Questions -->
Yesterday, a man was convicted of a public order offence after burning a Koran outside the Turkish embassy. The judge said that the fact that the man was attacked was proof that he was guilty of disorderly behaviour. This is grotesque, and means that in effect, we have a blasphemy law. Does the Justice Secretary believe that this should hold, or will the Government back my Bill to put an end to all of this madness next week?
Context
A man was convicted of a public order offence after burning a Koran outside the Turkish embassy. The judge's ruling suggested that being attacked proved his guilt, which the MP finds concerning.
Shabana Mahmood
We do not have a blasphemy law, and we are not going to have a blasphemy law in this country. As the hon. Gentleman will be aware, I believe that that specific case is going to be subject to an appeal, so it would be inappropriate for me or any other Minister to comment on the details of the matter. However, I am sure that once all other channels are exhausted and we have a final resolution, we will be debating these matters in detail in this House.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
At the last oral questions, the Secretary of State said that different forms of gambling should be treated differently. However, a flat tax on all online gambling has been proposed, which fails to distinguish between betting on sports like horseracing and online casinos and gaming. Problem rates for bets on racing are about the same as for lottery scratchcards. Will the Minister commit here and now to making sure that betting on sports like racing is not treated the same as betting on online casinos and gaming?
Context
The racing industry is concerned about the proposed flat tax on all online gambling which treats betting on sports like horse racing the same as bets on online casinos, despite similar problem rates for both.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
I am a big supporter of racing and recognise the significant contribution it makes to the British economy. The consultation on the tax treatment of remote gambling is led by His Majesty’s Treasury. It is open until 21 July and any impact assessment will be a matter for that Department.
Session: Remote Betting and Gaming Duty Horseracing
View All Questions -->
What assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the double contributions convention in the UK-India free trade agreement on levels of tax revenue? Indian workers sent here by their employers will cost less in taxes than British rivals for doing the same jobs, which could displace British workers and suppress wages. Will the Chancellor commit now to monitoring the effects of the agreement?
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential fiscal impact of tax revenue and employment displacement due to a clause in the UK-India free trade agreement. The double contributions convention allows workers posted between India and the UK to avoid paying social security contributions twice.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
This deal is worth £5 billion to the UK economy, reducing tariffs on Scotch whisky by more than half. The double contributions convention ensures that workers posted between India and the UK do not pay social security contributions twice. British workers benefit from this agreement as well.
Session: UK-India Free Trade Agreement
View All Questions -->
Next month, a planning application for a biodigester near Haverhill and Withersfield in West Suffolk will be decided. It is the wrong location for many reasons, not least the risk of flooding as the proposed site is on flood risk zone 3 land. What are the Government doing to prevent development on land susceptible to flooding?
Context
A biodigester near Haverhill and Withersfield in West Suffolk is scheduled to be decided next month. The proposed site is on flood risk zone 3 land.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Hardy)
The hon. Gentleman raises an important point. Of course, the national planning policy framework is clear that where development in areas at risk of flooding is necessary, local planning authorities and developers should ensure that the development is appropriately flood resilient and resistant, safe for the development’s lifetime and, importantly, will not increase flood risk elsewhere. We are also looking at other measures, such as sustainable urban drainage systems, to be included in planning as well.
Session: Flooding Protecting Vulnerable Communities
View All Questions -->
According to reports in The Guardian, Government sources have said that issues around visas have been resolved as part of the Government’s free trade agreement negotiations with India. Will the Secretary of State rule out visa liberalisation as part of those negotiations?
Context
According to reports, issues around visas have been resolved as part of the free trade agreement negotiations with India.
Jonathan Reynolds
We should always be careful about what we read in some newspapers. [Laughter.] The hon. Gentleman knows that we cannot give a running commentary on trade negotiations, but the UK-India talks have been fruitful this week. I am optimistic and excited for the future of what is a key relationship bilaterally and for the signal it can send to the rest of the world.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does the Secretary of State agree that there is a world of difference between betting on sport, which employs thousands and brings joy to millions, and gaming, which requires no skill or knowledge at all? Will she commit to treating the two differently in regulation and increasing the difference in the tax system?
Context
The MP draws a distinction between betting on sport, which brings joy to many, and gaming based purely on chance.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Lisa Nandy)
I am not sure that I would share that characterisation but recognise we need to treat different forms differently. We are working on measures this summer to support land-based gambling in coastal towns and ensure bingo is protected.
Session: Gambling Harms
View All Questions -->
The Minister for Local Government and English Devolution recently spoke at an iftar hosted by the European Islamic Centre, which is connected to Jamaat-e-Islami and Abul A’la al-Maududi, the Minister for Social Security and Disability attended the Muslim Council of Britain’s annual dinner, and the Prime Minister hosted Adam Kelwick, an imam who celebrated the 7 October attacks and told followers to “pray for victory” for Hamas. Why are the Government so keen to spend time with and lend legitimacy to organisations and people they say they oppose? What will the Minister say to the Prime Minister?
Context
MP concerned about government engagement with organisations and individuals they claim to oppose, citing specific instances of ministers attending events hosted by the European Islamic Centre, Muslim Council of Britain, and a dinner hosted by an imam celebrating attacks on Israel.
The Minister for Security (Dan Jarvis)
We are not, and I do not agree with the proposition that the hon. Member has made. All Ministers —of course, including the Prime Minister—take these matters incredibly seriously, and we always engage in the most responsible way.
Session: Defending Democracy Taskforce
View All Questions -->
In January, I asked the Defence Secretary which single Minister is responsible for the security of offshore infrastructure. We know that Russia and China target interconnectors and undersea cables, we know that Russia places listening devices on our wind turbines to monitor submarines, and we know that China controls the tech in the turbines that the Energy Secretary wants to buy. The Defence Secretary could not answer me in January, and neither did the Prime Minister when I asked him earlier this month. When are we going to find out who is actually in charge?
Context
The question arises from concerns over threats to UK's critical undersea infrastructure, including interconnectors and cables targeted by Russia and China. Previous attempts to ascertain responsibility for security have been met with non-committal answers.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
There is no doubt in my mind that the Prime Minister is responsible for the security of this nation, and he delegates different areas to different Departments. That is a completely normal way of dealing with our national security. Let us be absolutely clear: within Defence, we take this seriously and we work with colleagues across Departments to make sure that we are not only securing our infrastructure from a defence perspective, but using our trade routes to make sure that we are protecting and buying the right technology and using our planning system to make sure that, where there is development, it does not impinge on our national security.
Session: Defence of Undersea Infrastructure
View All Questions -->
That was a long-winded answer, but the Minister did not actually address the question, and I think he just gave away that it is Labour’s secret plan to increase the price of carbon—a massive rise in the carbon price—adding hundreds of pounds to families’ bills and decimating British industry. Given Labour’s election promise to cut bills, will he take this moment—he can look up into the camera if he likes—to promise the country that by the next election bills will be lower, as Labour promised? Yes or no?
Context
The question references Labour's previous election promise to cut household bills and the impact of increasing carbon prices.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Michael Shanks)
Never mind long-winded answers—that was a very long-winded question. I have not revealed any secret plans, but the Conservatives have revealed their not so secret plan, and I can tell the county that it is just as disappointing as the one the country rejected seven months ago. We have been very clear that it is our commitment to bring down bills, and we are determined to deliver on that. Unlike the Conservative party, which left consumers across the country exposed to volatile fossil fuel markets—the hon. Gentleman is right to point out that bills went up and up and up when his party was in government—we will bring them down. His party wants to take us back to the fossil fuel casino but we will not do that.
Session: Electricity Grid Decarbonisation
View All Questions -->
Parents and pupils will think that Ministers are on another planet when they hear such answers. SATs in years 2 and 6 mean that primary schools can be held accountable, and that we can measure progress data through secondary education, but the National Education Union says that SATs ‘do not benefit learning’ and wants the Government to abolish them. Will the Minister rule out abolishing SATs in primary schools—yes or no?
Context
The interim report on the curriculum and assessment review is due to be published. Nick Timothy asks about SATs in primary schools, citing concerns from the National Education Union.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
Assessment clearly has an important role to play in supporting achievement and development within schools. We will consider how the reformed curriculum and assessment will affect schools. We recognise the importance of supporting schools through any changes that come forward in the interim and final report.
Session: Curriculum and Assessment Review
View All Questions -->
I refer the House to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests. Thoroughbred horses are high-health, high-welfare animals, and they should be treated as such to allow cross-border travel without physical border checks. Can the Minister commit today to recognise their high-health status, put welfare first and reduce this barrier to trade?
Context
Thoroughbred horses are high-welfare animals and should be treated as such for cross-border travel.
Daniel Zeichner (The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs)
My near neighbour raises an important point—this is a very high-value sector. A commitment was made to designate thoroughbred horses as high-health animals as part of the border target operating model, and we will provide an update on the timeline for implementation by the end of the summer.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
There are serious questions about the transparency of the police, the CPS and the Government in the days and weeks following the Southport attack. In written answers to me, the Government have refused to provide the dates when the Prime Minister was told that Rudakubana possessed ricin and an al-Qaeda training manual. Can the Justice Secretary tell me why?
Context
There are serious questions about transparency regarding when the Prime Minister was informed of key information related to Rudakubana's possession of ricin and an al-Qaeda training manual.
Shabana Mahmood
The Prime Minister has responded to the other questions that have been raised. The appropriate information was made available at the appropriate time to either the Prime Minister or the Home Secretary. It was right that the Government did not give any commentary that could have collapsed the trial. On the specific charge relating to ricin, that decision required Law Officer approval, which was sought and immediately given.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Children’s Commissioner says that the Government are
“legislating against the things we know work in schools”.
Katharine Birbalsingh says the schools Bill is “catastrophic”. Sir Dan Moynihan asks:
“Why are we doing this?”.
Why does the Education Secretary think that she knows more about education than the Children’s Commissioner, the head of the best school in the country, and the head of the best multi-academy trust?
“legislating against the things we know work in schools”.
Katharine Birbalsingh says the schools Bill is “catastrophic”. Sir Dan Moynihan asks:
“Why are we doing this?”.
Why does the Education Secretary think that she knows more about education than the Children’s Commissioner, the head of the best school in the country, and the head of the best multi-academy trust?
Context
Critics, including the Children’s Commissioner and educators like Katharine Birbalsingh and Sir Dan Moynihan, question the Government's education policies.
Bridget Phillipson
This Labour Government are determined to deliver high and rising standards for all our children. The Conservatives left 1,000 failing schools, continuing to let down more than 400,000 children. They left one in three children leaving primary school without a firm foundation in English and maths, and one in five children regularly out of school. If they want to debate their record, I will do it any day of the week.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Facing management companies that fail to meet basic obligations, with residents caught between developers and service providers, what plans do the Government have to regulate these 'cowboy' companies?
Context
Residents of West Suffolk living in new build homes are facing issues such as road maintenance and shared space upkeep due to ineffective property management.
Matthew Pennycook
We are committed to protecting freeholders from unfair charges. This year, we will consult on implementing the consumer protection provisions in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, covering up to 1.75 million homes subject to such charges. I am more than happy to discuss this matter further.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Minister will not be surprised to hear me raise the issue of the disproportionality of affordability checks on those betting on racing, and the reform of the betting levy. I am grateful for the positive tone taken so far, and the constructive engagement from her and the Secretary of State. Talks between the gambling industry and the racing industry about the betting levy continue, but I think ultimately Ministers will be required to make a decision. We need the betting levy to be increased overall, and applied to races held overseas that people are betting on here. We think there will be not just a fiscal forecast but a mini-Budget in March. Can those industries start working with the Treasury now to make sure that there are plans to reform the betting levy in the Finance Bill?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the affordability checks for those betting on horse racing and proposes reforms to the betting levy, suggesting a potential fiscal forecast or mini-Budget in March.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for that question. He is a huge champion for the horseracing industry. Of course, the Government and I recognise the significant contribution that racing makes to British sporting culture and the rural economy in particular. We are disappointed that talks have not been successful. The Government have heard racing’s concerns about the financial checks, and about the fact that there has not been an agreement. The Minister with responsibility for gambling and the Secretary of State continue to work on this issue.
Session: Responsible Gambling
View All Questions -->
Following the Christmas day attack on Finnish sea cables, what assessment has the Defence Secretary made of the threat to British interconnectors? Which individual Minister is ultimately responsible for their security?
Context
Following the Christmas day attack on Finnish sea cables, the question is about assessment made of the threat to British interconnectors and identification of individual Minister responsible for their security.
John Healey
The Finnish investigation into what caused the damage to the Estlink 2 cable is continuing, but many analysts conclude that it is likely that the Eagle S was the cause. That reinforces the case for Operation Nordic Warden, which I confirmed to the House in response to an earlier question. It is being run from the Northwood standing joint forces headquarters and will cover a number of areas of interest, including areas where we have British undersea cables.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Will the Government publish data on nationality, visa status, and asylum of all offenders in prison? If yes, can we have a timeline; if not, why?
Context
Albanians, Jamaicans, Iraqis and Somalis are disproportionately likely to be criminals in Britain.
Shabana Mahmood
We are using an inherited data collection approach. We are committed to ensuring that foreign national offenders are deported and are on track to deport more this year than last.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I assure the Education Secretary that we are very positive about schooling in this country. I am sure that she will want to thank all school leaders for their work to help English schools to soar up the rankings for the programme for international student assessment and programme for international student assessment rankings—PISA and TIMMS—but will she join me in sending personal congratulations to Katharine Birbalsingh, whose approach to discipline, the curriculum and teacher-led instruction makes her school Michaela the best in the country?
Context
The questioner acknowledges the Government's ambition for schooling in England but wants to send personal congratulations to Katharine Birbalsingh.
Bridget Phillipson
I will always celebrate the fantastic work of our school leaders and teachers, because they are how we will drive high and rising standards across our school system. The hon. Gentleman and I probably have more in common than he realises. He might recognise these words: “The greatest injustice in Britain today is that your life is still largely determined not by your efforts and talents but by where you come from, who your parents are and what schools you attend. This is wrong.” They are taken from the 2017 Conservative manifesto, which he was involved in writing.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
A cornerstone of sound management is economic certainty, but this Government seem to specialise in creating economic uncertainty; most recently they did so by delaying the date for the critical multi-year spending review. It looks like the Chancellor does not have a grip on either her Cabinet colleagues' spending plans or her own plans for public sector productivity. Which is it—or is it both?
Context
Concern over economic uncertainty due to delay in multi-year spending review and confusion about Cabinet colleagues' spending plans.
Rachel Reeves
The hon. Gentleman talks about uncertainty, but he was a Minister in the Treasury under Liz Truss, when huge damage was done to families' and businesses' finances. Frankly, I will take no lessons from Conservative Members on how to run the economy.
Session: Management of Public Finances
View All Questions -->
Thank you, Mr Speaker. The horseracing industry has been left in the dark by this Government, following the Chancellor's disastrous Budget. The Office for Budget Responsibility warned that the national insurance rise would cost, on average, £800 per employee; with 20,000 employed across the country, it could cost the horseracing industry £16 million and the gambling sector up to £100 million before new levies. Will the Secretary of State tell the House whether her Department has made any assessment of the impact of the increase in national insurance contributions on the industry? How many jobs will be lost? How many training yards and courses will close?
Context
The horseracing industry has been affected by recent budget changes, including the national insurance rise which could cost the industry £16 million.
Lisa Nandy
Let me gently say to the hon. Gentleman that he is well aware that in the decisions we took in the recent Budget, we protected the smallest businesses; more than half of businesses will pay either less or the same as they currently do. We will take no lectures from the Opposition about how to run the economy after 14 years, given the mess they left this country in.
Session: Horseracing
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Immigration and Nationality Statistics
18 December 2024
Responding: Seema Malhotra
Main Concerns
["Nick Timothy expresses concern about the failure of successive Prime Ministers to control immigration levels, which he believes undermines Britain's economy, capital stock, and cultural coherence. He highlights specific statistics showing the disproportionate use of social housing by certain nationalities and higher incarceration rates for others. Timothy also points out that low-paid immigrants incur significant long-term costs, including £250,000 per person for the state pension."]
Specific Asks
["Nick Timothy asks the Government to commission work to establish the true cost of immigration broken down by profile of migrant and to publish statistics on benefits claimants' immigration status. He also requests data on social housing occupation by nationality and asylum status, and details about the Rwanda policy costs and discrepancies in Home Office figures."]
Horseracing
24 October 2024
Responding: Stephanie Peacock
Main Concerns
['Nick Timothy is concerned about the precarious future of the British horseracing industry, despite its international success and economic benefits. He mentions that many breeders and trainers operate on tight margins due to lower prize money compared to competitor markets like Australia, Ireland, France, Japan, and the United States. The average prize fund for top-tier races in Britain is £600,000, whereas in Dubai it is £4.5 million and in Australia £2.7 million. Lower down the pyramid, most British races pay less than £5,000 to the winner, compared to higher amounts abroad. Additionally, he notes that betting turnover on British racing has fallen by over £1.5 billion in the past two years and could be as low as £7 billion this year.']
Specific Asks
['Nick Timothy asks the Government not to revert to previous practices but instead build upon prior agreements with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. He requests a commitment to increase the betting levy to at least 11.5% to create a growth fund for marketing and promoting British racing. Additionally, he seeks reform of the current levy system to ensure it applies to bets placed on races in Britain and overseas equally. He also wants assurances that there will be no further taxes imposed on bookmakers which could harm the industry.']
Early Release of Prisoners
07 July 2026
General Debate
Led by this MP
Calls on the Government to exempt from automatic early release under the Sentencing Act 2026 offenders who have been convicted of sexual offences against adults or children, including rape and groomin...
Forest City: West Suffolk
23 June 2026
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
Nick Timothy raised concerns about the proposed Forest City development, a plan to build a city of 1 million people between Newmarket and Haverhill in West Suffolk. He argued that the premise of the p...
Criminal Justice Bill - After Clause 14 - Duty to inform victims and families of the unduly lenient sentencing scheme
25 March 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Separation Centres Review 2026-02-03
03 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government has responded to Jonathan Hall KC’s independent review of separation centres, which focuses on the protection of prison officers from violent extremism. The review highlights the need f...
Prison Capacity Annual Statement 2026-01-29
29 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government are publishing the second annual statement on prison capacity, reflecting their determination to be open and honest about the state of the justice system. They inherited a prison system...
Public Office (Accountability) Bill 2026-01-19
19 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Minister of Justice emphasised the importance of the Public Office Accountability Bill for ensuring transparency, accountability, and support for families affected by state failures. She highlight...
Business of the House 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The MP expressed concern over the lack of full costing in the strategic defence review, resulting in delays to the Defence Investment Plan. He highlighted issues faced by local businesses such as the ...
West Midlands Police 2026-01-14
14 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Violence against Women and Girls Strategy 2025-12-18
18 December 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Government is declaring violence against women and girls as a national emergency. The strategy aims to halve these crimes within a decade through prevention, bearing down on perpetrators, and supp...
Maccabi Tel Aviv FC Away Fans Ban 2025-12-08
08 December 2025
Urgent Question
Led by this MP
Will the Minister confirm the adequacy of the evidence on which West Midland police took decisions relating to the Aston Villa versus Maccabi Tel Aviv match? The decision has caused significant concer...
Attendance
79.0%
64 of 81 votes
Aye Votes
33
40.7% of votes
No Votes
31
38.3% of votes
Abstentions
17
21.0% of votes
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
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 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
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
1
PMQs Asked
50
Ministerial Questions Asked
84
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
81
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-73% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+266% above average
This MP:
50
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-21% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1635% above average
This MP:
84
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+14% above average
This MP:
79.0
Average:
69.5
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 Nick Timothy's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.