Nickie Aiken
MP for Cities of London and Westminster
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
On a recent visit to Pimlico, in my constituency, the Prime Minister heard directly from local people concerned about the eye-watering rise in violent crime and robbery. Does my right hon. Friend agree that the London Labour Mayor has failed to take advantage of extra Government funding to recruit more police, and that on 2 May Londoners can send him a very clear message that he has let them down?
Context
The Prime Minister heard from local people in Pimlico about the concerning rise in violent crime and robbery. The London Labour Mayor has not taken advantage of extra Government funding to recruit more police.
Rishi Sunak
Sadiq Khan is failing London. While burglary is down across England, it is up in London. Violent crime is down across England, but up in London. The Labour Mayor is the only one of 43 police and crime commissioners to have missed his police recruitment target. Londoners will have the chance to speak when they cast their votes on 2 May. I hope that they kick him out because we all know they will be safer with Susan Hall.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The UK birth rate is falling, the while numbers of those requiring fertility treatment to conceive are rising. There are no employment rights attached to those undertaking fertility treatment, and no paid time off work. Will the Prime Minister join me in encouraging employers, large and small and across the United Kingdom, to sign up to the fertility workplace pledge that I have launched with Fertility Matters at Work, LGBT Mummies, Fertility Network UK and many others, to support those undertaking fertility treatment when they are in work?
Context
Discussion about rising fertility treatments and lack of employment rights or paid time off for those undergoing treatment.
Rishi Sunak
May I start by thanking my hon. Friend for her excellent work campaigning on this issue? She is right: employers should offer their staff understanding, support, and flexibility while they are undergoing fertility treatment. The best way to improve the experience of those undergoing treatment, both women and their partners, is through voluntary approaches. That is why I join my hon. Friend in encouraging all companies to sign up to the fertility workplace pledge.
Assessment
None
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
We know the Labour party has an aversion to white van man, but does the Prime Minister share my concerns that, according to a report in The Daily Telegraph today, Labour-run Westminster Council is increasing parking charges for small electric vehicles by up to 1,800%, demonstrating that it does not support small businesses or tackling climate change?
Context
A report suggested that Labour-run Westminster Council is increasing parking charges for small electric vehicles by up to 1,800%, which could be detrimental to small businesses and the fight against climate change.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend is right to raise those concerns. It seems that Labour in London is yet again penalising hard-working people. First we had the ultra low emission zone, and now it seems Labour is hiking parking charges on white van drivers and small businesses.
Assessment
Specific actions or commitments to address the issue were not provided.
Penalising Hard-Working People
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Government at all levels, national and local, should always strive to deliver value for money for the taxpayer, particularly in a cost of living crisis. Therefore, does the Prime Minister share my astonishment that my local Labour-led Westminster Council voted last week to raise council tax by 2% and council housing tenants' rent by 7%, and increase allowances for its senior councillors by up to a staggering 45%?
Context
Westminster Council raised council tax, rent for council tenants, and senior councillor allowances.
Rishi Sunak
That is disappointing to see. I think it has been just under a year that the now Labour-run Westminster Council has put its own councillors' pay ahead of everything else. I cannot quite believe the figures we heard from my hon. Friend—a staggering, eye-watering 45% pay increase when people across our country and abroad are suffering cost of living pressures. It is clear that it is only Conservative-run councils that deliver for their residents.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Does my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister agree that it is now time to consider a registration scheme, managed by local authorities, so that councils can properly manage this growing sector?
Context
Airbnb-type short-term lets provide positive experiences for many but cause issues in local communities. Westminster alone has 13,000 Airbnb properties.
Rishi Sunak
The Levelling Up Secretary has said we will deliver a new tourist accommodation registration scheme, increasing appropriate regulation of the sector. We will also consult on whether planning permissions should be required for new short-term holiday lets, especially in tourist hot spots.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
After a meeting with operators, TfL and DfT, my hon. Friend will object to my Pedicabs (London) Bill this Friday. Does the PM agree we should legislate for safe pedicab use? Will he work with me to regulate them properly?
Context
A meeting took place discussing the Pedicabs (London) Bill, which faces opposition.
Boris Johnson
When Mayor of London I always yearned for this legislative change. We will give parliamentary time to make it possible as a boon for cyclists and taxi drivers.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Recent horrific events have brought the important debate on women's and girls' rights into the spotlight, specifically their right to be safe and feel safe as they go about their daily lives. Does my right hon. Friend agree that such issues need to be treated sensitively, and false claims made by the Labour party last night on social media about the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill are misleading and certainly not helpful?
Context
The Labour party made false claims on social media about the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.
Boris Johnson
It was certainly a mistake, and a regrettable mistake, for anybody to suggest that rape had been decriminalised in this country, because we must do everything we can to reassure victims of rape and sexual violence and get them to come forward. That is what we are doing. I also think it would be a good thing if, together, we could vote for some of the tougher sentences that we have put forward in the Bill. I liked the collegiate spirit that we had earlier on, and I hope it can be extended to voting for the tougher sentences that we have put forward.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
My constituency sits at the heart of our great metropolis. Cities of London and Westminster is home to the west end, whose theatres and cultural venues attract visitors from across the globe and will help power our economic recovery. Does my right hon. Friend share my aspiration to see these venues open as soon as it is safe to do so?
Context
The theatres and cultural venues in London's West End are crucial for tourism and economic recovery.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Yes, the show must go on. I know the power of the theatres of London's west end and the entire cultural industry in London, not just as a magnet for our country, but for the sheer revenues they deliver. We want that to get going as fast as we possibly can, and we want life for theatres and theatregoers to get back to normal as fast as we possibly can, but to do that we have to defeat the disease.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
St Mary's in Paddington is a much-loved, much-used hospital in my constituency. Although it was taken off the list of 40 new hospitals to be redeveloped, I am delighted to be working with my hon. Friend the Member for Kensington (Felicity Buchan) and the Minister in the Lords responsible for hospitals to make a case with the trust to ensure that it is redeveloped. Could the Chief Secretary to the Treasury please update the House on the timeframe for making available Government funding so that we can submit the planning business case for the redevelopment?
Context
The hospital in Paddington was taken off the list of 40 new hospitals to be redeveloped, but efforts are being made to work with the trust and Minister to ensure it is redeveloped.
Laura Trott
I commend my hon. Friend and my hon. Friend the Member for Kensington (Felicity Buchan) on their great work on this project. There appears to be a compelling case, and I know that the programme team at the Department of Health and Social Care is looking closely at the proposal.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Given the lack of OBR assessment on the cost of extending tax-free shopping to EU visitors and the UK retail industry's belief in a significantly lower cost, is it time for a full independent review during English Tourism Week?
Context
The OBR informed the Treasury Committee that it has not assessed the cost of extending tax-free shopping to EU visitors, and the retail industry believes it could be much lower than estimated.
Nigel Huddleston
The Government acknowledges the importance of tourism and is considering OBR findings along with other submissions. While expanding tax-free shopping to EU visitors is not current policy, insights from OBR's work are relevant for both EU and non-EU populations. The Government will consider all data within broader context.
Session: Tax-free Shopping
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the potential merits of reintroducing tax-free shopping for international visitors, given OBR's review findings and industry submissions?
Context
The question is prompted by a recent review and ongoing industry representations about the impact of tax-free shopping withdrawal.
Nigel Huddleston
The Government is considering the Office for Budget Responsibility's review findings alongside industry representations. The OBR does not assess alternative policies, but its insights are useful in understanding overall behavioural incentives relevant to both EU and non-EU visitors. The Government will take time to consider these factors.
Session: Tax-free Shopping
View All Questions -->
Does the Minister understand my concern that what is suggested in the Criminal Justice Bill criminalises rough sleepers and does nothing to help them? The police already have powers under multiple pieces of legislation but are failing to use them effectively.
Context
The MP observed several rough sleepers during their walk to the parliamentary session, raising concerns about existing legislation's effectiveness.
Chris Philp
The powers listed from existing legislation differ from those in the Criminal Justice Bill. The Bill targets nuisance-causing rough sleeping, not general rough sleeping. However, the Government are willing to review provisions to ensure they are narrowly drawn and use criminal sanctions only as a last resort.
Session: Policing Homelessness and Rough Sleeping
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the potential impact of the Criminal Justice Bill on policing homelessness and rough sleeping? The police already have powers to move rough sleepers under multiple pieces of legislation but are failing to use them. Does the Minister understand my concern that what is suggested in the Criminal Justice Bill criminalises rough sleepers without offering help?
Context
The MP noted the increasing presence of rough sleepers in their constituency, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current legislation.
Chris Philp
The Government are committed to ending rough sleeping with significant investment. Rough sleeping levels have decreased by 35% since 2017. The provisions in the Criminal Justice Bill target specific types of rough sleeping causing a nuisance rather than criminalising it broadly. However, the Government are willing to review and narrow these provisions to ensure that support is offered first.
Session: Policing Homelessness and Rough Sleeping
View All Questions -->
With the Pedicabs (London) Bill having reached Report stage in the Lords, can he update the House on when we can expect it to be presented in this place?
Context
The Pedicabs (London) Bill has reached Report stage in the Lords.
Guy Opperman
The bill will be presented early in the new year.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
May I first thank the Minister for Employment for joining me this morning at Ben Venuti, a brilliant café and deli in Pimlico, to celebrate hospitality in Cities of London and Westminster? What further steps is the Department taking to ensure that the scheme benefits minorities and those struggling the most with the cost of living crisis?
Context
The MP celebrated the launch of a hospitality SWAP pilot in her constituency, involving the Raffles London hotel. She is interested in further steps to ensure that the scheme benefits minorities and those struggling with cost-of-living issues.
Guy Opperman
It was a tough ministerial visit to an award-winning coffee shop this morning—somehow, I missed the earlier hotel visit. We are driving forward that hospitality pilot to try to tackle recruitment issues in the sector across the United Kingdom. Every person who passes gets a hospitality skills passport, which we believe can genuinely make a difference across all age groups and all sections of the community.
Session: Hospitality Sector-based Work Academy Programme
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the hospitality sector-based work academy programme in Cities of London and Westminster constituency?
Context
The MP is concerned about the effectiveness of a hospitality work academy programme in her constituency. She noted that thousands of hospitality jobs exist there, including businesses like Ben Venuti café and deli.
Guy Opperman
We are working with UK Hospitality and local providers up and down the country—from Liverpool to Manchester to Coventry; in London, of course; and also, to come, in Wales—to ensure that we have a hospitality work programme that provides employment training, work experience and a guaranteed job interview. It is free for all DWP jobseekers.
Session: Hospitality Sector-based Work Academy Programme
View All Questions -->
Let us be clear: the 2019 Conservative manifesto promised a radical strategy for disabled people before the end of 2020. It emerged unlawfully and was replaced quietly by an action plan in December 2022 but we still have few details. How many years does it take for meaningful action?
Context
The question is prompted by the delay in delivering a disability strategy after numerous promises, with the latest being found illegal.
Tom Pursglove
We might need an Adjournment debate to correct inaccuracies in the hon. Lady's question; this Government are committed to a disability action plan responding to issues raised by disabled people, involving full consultation and delivery over 12-18 months.
Session: Disability Action Plan
View All Questions -->
The leaseholders from Rathbone Square and their affordable housing neighbours at 14 Newman Street face issues with their co-owners, WestInvest and Deka, and managing agents, CBRE. There is no transparency and the affordable housing residents are charged five times more for energy. Does my right hon. Friend agree that a complete shake-up of leasehold reform and property management is needed?
Context
Residents in Rathbone Square are experiencing high costs and lack of transparency with their freeholders, WestInvest and Deka. The situation is affecting affordable housing residents disproportionately.
Rachel Maclean
Yes, I thank my hon. Friend for bringing these concerns to the House. We are determined to reform this system. It is complex but we note that Labour had 13 years in government without action on leasehold reforms.
Session: Leasehold Reform
View All Questions -->
Will my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State join me in thanking all those involved in making the coronation what it will be? The street cleaners, the unsung heroes who will tidy up—
Context
The MP is concerned about recognizing the efforts of street cleaners and other unsung heroes involved in the coronation preparations.
Lucy Frazer
I join my hon. Friend in thanking everybody who will make the coronation so special. It will be a world-class event that will be seen across the globe, and that is down to the hard work of many people, including her constituents and the emergency services in the Cities of London and Westminster, which will ensure that the weekend's celebrations are a safe historic moment.
Session: Coronation Community Participation
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to encourage community participation in the celebration of the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III?
Context
The MP is concerned about community involvement and wants to ensure that all communities are engaged in the coronation festivities.
Lucy Frazer
Many people across the UK will take part in what will be a very special coronation weekend. My Department has worked with local authorities, charities and community groups to ensure that there is something for everyone. There will be street parties and big lunches, and hopefully people can watch it on a big screen, if there is one near them. An interactive map on coronation.gov.uk highlights what is happening in people's local communities across the weekend.
Session: Coronation Community Participation
View All Questions -->
When I met Jewish students studying in universities in my constituency, I was appalled to learn of the antisemitism they have to suffer, often on a daily basis. That was made worse by the recent report into the National Union of Students' handling and challenging of antisemitism. In the month when we mark Holocaust Memorial Day, I would be interested to hear the Minister's assessment of that NUS report.
Context
Jewish students in universities face daily antisemitism, and a recent NUS report highlights challenges in handling this issue.
Robert Halfon
I have been shocked and sobered by reading that report that the NUS was in essence a hostile place for Jewish students. That is not acceptable. The National Union of Students, the main body for students, should be a place that is not just safe but welcoming for Jewish students. The proof of the pudding with this report will be in the eating; I expect to see the changes and the recommendations implemented in full, and once that has occurred I will re-engage with the National Union of Students.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I appreciate that some elements in Government may insist that we need more powers to deal with aggressive beggars, but I gently suggest that we have such legislation, including the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. Does the new Secretary of State therefore agree that we do not need clause 187, a placeholder clause, in the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill, and will he scrap it immediately?
Context
Some elements in Government may insist that more powers are needed to deal with aggressive beggars.
Andrew Stephenson
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend's tireless efforts to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping in Westminster, and to her successful campaign to repeal the Vagrancy Act 1824. My ministerial colleague, the Under-Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, the hon. Member for Bishop Auckland (Dehenna Davison), and I are keen to continue to work with her to ensure that we get the balance right.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
With more strike days on the tube under this Mayor than his predecessor, his wanting to slash our bus services—in particular, the 24 and the 211 in my constituency—and with the Met now in special measures, does my right hon. Friend think it is time that the Department for Transport considers putting Transport for London in special measures?
Context
There are more strike days on the tube under this Mayor than his predecessor, and there is concern about slashed bus services.
Grant Shapps
My hon. Friend makes an interesting point. Labour Members constantly call on me to enter into direct negotiations with the unions. They may be able to tell us whether the Mayor of London has done the same thing with the RMT strikes. If he has, it has not worked. If he has not, why are they not calling on him to do that? To add to my hon. Friend's lengthy list of problems, I got a letter yesterday from the monitoring officer at the Greater London Authority, who says that she will be referring to the formal complaints process guidance as a result of the Mayor's releasing information about both the Elizabeth line and TfL in advance of the markets.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
When will a repeal not be a repeal? The new bill disregards the repeal of the Vagrancy Act.
Context
The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 repealed the Vagrancy Act 1824. Clause 187 of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill is concerning.
Michael Gove
There will be no return to the Vagrancy Act. We will work with the Home Office to ensure appropriate measures for antisocial behaviour, but criminalising rough-sleeping and begging is not on the agenda.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does my right hon. Friend agree that as the UN charter mandate is to maintain international peace and security, perhaps it is time for the international community to question whether Russia should remain a permanent member of the Security Council?
Context
Testimony from Ukraine about rape and the upcoming meeting between the UN Secretary-General and Mr Putin.
Elizabeth Truss
My hon. Friend is right about the appalling reports and our concerns about an international security architecture that has Russia as one of the permanent members, where it uses its veto for barbarism. We are working more closely with allies such as G7 and NATO.
Session: Sexual Violence in Conflict
View All Questions -->
What diplomatic steps her Department is taking to help ensure sexual violence is not used as a weapon of war. The question arises due to disturbing reports of widespread sexual violence by Russian soldiers in Ukraine.
Context
The use of rape as a weapon of war in conflicts, particularly the reports from Ukraine and other regions.
Elizabeth Truss
The UK is determined to tackle sexual violence in conflict, campaigning for it to be treated as a red line on par with chemical weapons. The Murad code is a vital step towards ensuring justice and evidence collection for survivors. We condemn the use of rape as a weapon of war.
Session: Sexual Violence in Conflict
View All Questions -->
As the Secretary of State will be aware, I am working with peers, other Members of this place and charities to secure the repeal of the Vagrncy Act 1824. My constituency is home to the largest number of rough sleepers in the country. The former Secretary of State said in the House in February that he thought that the Act should be consigned to history. What does the current Secretary of State think of the Vagrancy Act?
Context
The Vagrancy Act of 1824 criminalises rough sleepers rather than helping them.
Michael Gove
I think that the Vagrncy Act has to go. We do need appropriate legislation to deal with examples of aggressive begging, but the most important thing to recognise is that the work that Westminster Council and Greater Manchester have done to reduce rough sleeping has been exemplary.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Improving our air quality is a major priority for my constituents. Both they and I remain very concerned about the ongoing number of drivers who continue to idle their vehicles when parked at the kerbside. A single minute of idling an engine of a car creates 9 litres of CO. Unfortunately, regulation 98 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 does not adequately equip local authorities with the power they need to deter repeat engine idlers, only with an £80 fine. With that in mind, does my hon. Friend agree that we should now be considering increasing fines for drivers who continue to idle their engines, making it a genuine effective deterrent?
Context
Concerns about vehicle idling contributing to poor air quality have prompted calls for stricter fines.
Robert Courts
I know that my hon. Friend is a passionate campaigner on this issue and I completely agree that it is vital that we take action. Ultimately, it will be better technology, such as stop-start and zero-emission vehicles that will solve the issue.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
May I also offer my condolences to those involved in Grenfell four years ago—an event that we will never forget? Now we must learn from what was done with the Everyone In strategy, especially in terms of mental health and addiction issues. Does he agree that it is time to replace the Vagrancy Act?
Context
The Government provided £700 million extra funding to local authorities for supporting rough sleepers. The questioner asks about the Everyone In strategy and repeal of the Vagrancy Act.
Robert Jenrick
Councils have reduced rough sleepers significantly with £700 million in extra funding. We must build on this progress across Government, considering homelessness as both a housing and health issue.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. May I also offer my condolences to those involved in Grenfell four years ago—an event that we will never forget?
Context
Robert Jenrick was asked about his department's activities and responsibilities.
Robert Jenrick
One of the greatest divides in our country is between homeowners and non-homeowners. I was delighted to see the first site of the First Homes scheme providing homes at a 30% discount in Bolsover. Further sites worth over £700 million have been announced. Today marks four years since Grenfell Tower fire; we are determined to address failings through a new building safety Bill.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does the Secretary of State agree that UK should consider expanding its newborn screening programme, and will he meet me on this issue?
Context
UK screens for fewer rare diseases compared to other European countries.
Matthew Hancock
Absolutely agrees with expanding newborn screening. The Minister is happy to meet the hon. Friend and Baroness Blackwood for discussions.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Covid-19 has exposed digital poverty in developing countries. Millions of children, especially girls, have lost educational opportunities due to lack of internet access. What action is being taken to ensure that the UK uses its presidency of the G7 and the Global Partnership for Education to enable the most marginalised children, in particular girls, to return to school?
Context
The MP highlights the impact of digital poverty on education in developing countries during the pandemic, particularly for girls.
Wendy Morton
Girls education is at the heart of our G7 presidency. We are working with G7 members on SDG 4 milestones for more girls in school and reading, and hosting a global education summit to mobilise financing for education recovery post-covid.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does the Foreign Secretary agree that, with the UK hosting the G7 this summer, preventing sexual violence in conflict should be on the agenda?
Context
Calls for a joint investigation into reports of rape and sexual violence used as weapons.
Dominic Raab
I share my hon. Friend's passion and outrage at human rights violations and can reassure her that pressing for human rights, freedom of speech, and accountability for human rights violations are high priorities for the UK's G7 presidency along with tackling covid and climate change.
Session: Ethiopia Human Rights
View All Questions -->
What recent assessment has been made of the political situation in Ethiopia?
Context
Concern about ongoing conflict and humanitarian situation in Ethiopia, particularly Tigray.
Dominic Raab
The UK has been at the forefront of international efforts to de-escalate the humanitarian crisis in Tigray. There can be no military solution; conflict can only be resolved through a political settlement. I saw this first hand during my visit to Ethiopia in January.
Session: Ethiopia Human Rights
View All Questions -->
Does my right hon. Friend agree that it is vital that we listen to victims of violence and all women and girls to really understand their experiences in their daily lives?
Context
The reopening of the call for evidence on violence against women and girls is a critical step in understanding their experiences.
Priti Patel
We have already had in excess of 135,000 people writing in to the survey since it has been reopened. We want their views because their views matter, but so do their personal experiences whether or not someone has been a victim.
Session: Crime Reduction
View All Questions -->
Does my hon. Friend agree with the finding that family hubs play a crucial role in early years development and support?
Context
The review team has found that family hubs play a vital role in ensuring every infant gets the best start in life, including their educational development.
Vicky Ford
I so agree with my hon. Friend. The Government is setting up a national centre for family hubs to spread successful approaches across the country, such as that in Westminster.
Session: Early Years Settings Educational Development
View All Questions -->
One reason girls are prevented from receiving education is that they are forced into child marriage. With that in mind, will the Minister assure me that the FCDO will ensure that programmes to end the heinous practice of child marriage are at the centre of international development strategy?
Context
A recent Save the Children report revealed that a further 2.5 million girls are at risk of being forced into marriage by 2025 due to the ongoing pandemic, impacting their education and future opportunities.
Wendy Morton (Minister for Africa, Middle East and the United Nations)
Ending child marriage is key to delivering the Prime Minister's commitment of championing 12 years of quality education for girls. Since 2015, our £39 million flagship programme has helped to reach just under 40 million people with information designed to change attitudes towards child marriage. The UK will continue to use its development programmes and global leadership to end child marriage.
Session: Education for Girls
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the effect of the covid-19 pandemic on progress in implementing the Government's policy on ensuring that girls throughout the world receive 12 years of quality education?
Context
The MP noted that about 650 million girls were removed from primary and secondary education during the peak of the pandemic, with risks of permanent dropout. The question arises due to concerns over the impact of the pandemic on the progress towards ensuring that all girls receive 12 years of quality education as per government policy.
Wendy Morton (Minister for Africa, Middle East and the United Nations)
About 650 million girls were removed from primary and secondary education at the pandemic's peak, and some risk dropping out of school permanently. We must mobilise global investment and commitment to get education back on track and defeat the global learning crisis. The UK is proud to be co-hosting the Global Partnership for Education 2021 financing conference. We have adapted our education aid programming, and we have committed new funding to UNICEF, Education Cannot Wait and the United Nations Population Fund to address the impacts of covid-19 on women and girls.
Session: Education for Girls
View All Questions -->
Will my right hon. Friend comment on the amazing package of help that the Government have given to the retail and hospitality sectors? Moving forward, what policies can we hope to expect to support these vital sectors, which are responsible for hundreds of thousands of jobs in my constituency?
Context
The MP notes the success of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme in her constituency, highlighting its role in supporting demand in the hospitality industry.
Steve Barclay
My hon. Friend is right to recognise the effectiveness of that scheme in supporting demand. It was dismissed as a gimmick when my right hon. Friend the Chancellor launched it, but it has been warmly received by the hospitality industry. As she knows from her constituency and that of others, it is part of that wider package of support, including the cutting of the rate of VAT, which again has been a huge boost to that industry.
Session: Covid-19 Employment
View All Questions -->
What fiscal measures is the Government implementing to ensure they reach their goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050? The Government has already committed £2.5 billion for low-carbon innovation and other funds are allocated towards ultra-low emission vehicles and renewable heat incentive programmes.
Context
The UK aims to meet its target of net zero emissions by 2050, requiring significant investment in clean technologies.
Simon Clarke (Financial Secretary to the Treasury)
The UK is already a global leader in green finance, but we need to do more. The Government published a Green Finance Strategy last July and launched the Green Finance Institute in collaboration with the City of London. My hon. Friend the Economic Secretary will meet her at the earliest opportunity to progress this.
Session: Net Zero Emissions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
World Book Day — [Mark Pritchard in the Chair]
06 March 2024
Responding: Damian Hinds
Main Concerns
["The Member is concerned about the importance of reading for pleasure in children's future success, highlighting that one in seven pupils stated their book token was their first book purchase. She also mentioned a concerning correlation between literacy rates and life expectancy, noting that adults with poor literacy skills earn significantly less and have fewer job opportunities. The Member highlighted the need to improve adult literacy rates and access to educational resources."]
Specific Asks
["The Member asks for continued support of initiatives such as World Book Day, advocating for policies that enhance children's literacy and encourage reading among all ages."]
Fertility Treatment and Employment Rights
01 November 2022
Responding: Nusrat Ghani
Main Concerns
['Issues to do with fertility treatment affect hundreds of thousands of people across various demographics. Fertility treatment is emotionally draining, costly, and risky, often requiring multiple cycles before achieving success. People undergoing fertility treatment face challenges in balancing their personal lives with work responsibilities due to the lack of legal protection compared to pregnancy-related issues. According to data from Fertility Matters at Work, one-third of individuals going through IVF have considered leaving their job due to workplace discrimination or fear of it.']
Specific Asks
["I am moving a private Member's Bill, the Fertility Treatment (Employment Rights) Bill, which would give individuals the right to take time off for fertility treatment. The Bill is supported by leading charities and NGOs and will have its Second Reading on November 25th. Additionally, I am launching my fertility workplace pledge during National Fertility Awareness Week, calling for employers of all sizes to sign up to a set of commitments relating to information accessibility, awareness in the workplace, staff training, and flexible working."]
Pedicabs: Women’s Safety
16 November 2021
Responding: Rachel Maclean
Main Concerns
["Nickie Aiken highlights the issue of unregulated pedicabs in London, particularly their impact on women's safety. She mentions aggressive touting and harassment by rogue drivers, who operate without licences or insurance due to a legal loophole. Residents and businesses in her constituency are affected by amplified music and shouting late into the night, which can be extremely stressful for residents, especially when it wakes children up at midnight."]
Specific Asks
['Aiken calls on the Government to close the legal loophole that allows rogue pedicab drivers to operate without regulation. She supports her Pedicabs (London) Bill to introduce a licensing system for pedicabs in London, ensuring passenger safety and accountability for operators.']
Covid-19: Recovery of Central London Businesses
22 June 2021
Responding: Paul Scully
Main Concerns
['The hon. Member is concerned about the recovery of central London businesses, particularly in Cities of London and Westminster. She highlights that these areas rely on a cultural ecosystem which has been severely impacted by the pandemic. The business rates system, she argues, is outdated and exacerbates the financial pressures faced by mid-sized chain businesses and large hotels due to its cap of £2 million. With international visitors accounting for 50% of all spending in central London, she worries about the lack of high-volume footfall from tourists and workers returning to offices.']
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member asks the Government to urgently address several areas: a Government-backed insurance scheme for event organisers facing covid-19-related cancellations; extension of the 5% VAT freeze on cultural tickets until the end of the financial year 2021-22; and support for extending Sunday trading hours from 6 pm to 8 pm in international centres. She also urges the Government to work with businesses to encourage more visitors, especially high-spending ones, and to promote London globally as a place to visit and do business.']
Vagrancy Act 1824 — [Sir Charles Walker in the Chair]
13 April 2021
Responding: Eddie Hughes
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the antiquated nature of the Vagrancy Act 1824, which was originally introduced to deal with soldiers returning from the Napoleonic wars. The act is now used by police and councils to tackle a small minority of rough sleepers involved in persistent antisocial behaviour. There are more than 400 beds available on any given night in Westminster alone for rough sleepers, but these rarely come with vital health services required to help turn a person's life around."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Government to replace the Vagrancy Act with a new approach that places the preservation of life at its core through assertive outreach, alongside social care and specialist medical support. I also request that the Minister can address the issue of securing mental health assessments for rough sleepers and consider reintroducing street-based mental health services.']
Winter Homelessness Support
16 December 2020
Responding: Kelly Tolhurst
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the acute issues surrounding rough sleeping and homelessness in Westminster, particularly as it has more rough sleepers than any other borough in the country. The latest overnight count found 242 people sleeping rough on a single night, with nearly half being UK or Irish nationals while others represented a wide range of nationalities, primarily from eastern Europe. Three main cohorts are identified: those suffering from acute mental health and addiction issues, economic migrants who may choose to sleep outside to save their earnings, and individuals trapped as modern-day slaves by gangmasters.']
Specific Asks
["I am calling for the repeal of the Vagrancy Act, which is not fit for purpose in addressing today's issues. I also urge greater co-ordination across government departments to support economic migrants and those affected by modern slavery. Additionally, sustained and long-term funding is needed for tackling mental health and addiction among rough sleepers."]
Cultural Attractions: Contribution to Local Economy — [Sir Charles Walker in the Chair]
06 October 2020
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the impact of the covid pandemic on theatres, live music venues, and cultural attractions. In March 2020, these venues closed their doors or turned off their sound systems due to the pandemic. Some have reopened with social distancing measures in place, but many remain unable to reopen because it is not financially viable within current restrictions. I highlighted that in 2019, west end theatres attracted more than 15 million audience members and generated a gross revenue of £800 million. The gross value added of arts, museums, and galleries in the west end was over £1 billion in 2018. There are estimated to be 97,000 jobs in music, performance, and visual arts across London.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Government to continue funding jobs in sectors that remain unable to recover due to restrictions in place. I also urge them to extend the 5% VAT reduction for at least three years and introduce a Government-backed insurance scheme for live music, theatre, and performance to allow venues, producers, and creators to proceed with developing projects confidently.']
Sir David Amess Summer Adjournment 2025-07-22
22 July 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focused on several issues including making Stanmore station step-free, concerns over police station closures due to increased crime in London, opposition to the Broadwalk redevelopment prop...
Economy, Welfare and Public Services
22 July 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Informs the House that Mr Speaker has selected amendment (h), tabled by the Leader of the Opposition.
Valedictory Debate
24 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
In her concluding remarks, Harriet Harman reflected on her 42-year tenure in the House of Commons, thanking her constituents for their support and expressing pride in being a Labour MP. She emphasised...
HIV Compensation Scheme Bill - Lords amendment 35, Government amendments (b) and (c), Lords amendment 46, etc.
24 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The lead MP opened the debate by moving several amendments to address various aspects of the HIV Compensation Scheme Bill. He discussed Lords amendments including 35 and Government amendments such as ...
Holocaust Memorial (Centre) Bill - New Clause 1
22 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief Bill - Third Reading
17 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Ms Fiona Bruce moves that the Bill be read a third time, emphasising its importance in securing the role of special envoy for freedom of religion or belief as a permanent fixture in statute. She highl...
Pensions (Special Rules for End of Life) Bill - Clause 2 - Extent and Commencement
17 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment aims to bring the provisions of the Bill into force four months after Royal Assent. This is to prevent any potential delay due to a general election and ensure that the critical provisio...
School Attendance Bill - Clause not specified, debate on third reading of the bill
17 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill aims to address rising school absences by requiring local councils and schools to use services effectively to remove barriers faced by some children. It mandates that every council will have ...
The Space Industry Act 2018 Amendment Bill - Clause 1(a) and (b)
17 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I move, That the Bill be now read the Third time. Clause 1(a) is crucial for ensuring that commercial space activities in the UK are undertaken safely, securely, and in accordance with international o...
Licensing Act 2003 (Extension Orders) Bill - Clause 1
17 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I move that the Licensing Act 2003 be amended to allow the Home Secretary or Ministers to make extension orders for events of exceptional significance without going through a costly, bureaucratic proc...
8
PMQs Asked
32
Ministerial Questions Asked
136
House of Commons Debates Involved
7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
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
+139% above average
This MP:
32
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+178% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2698% above average
This MP:
136
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
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 Nickie Aiken's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.