Owen Thompson
MP for Midlothian
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
My elderly constituent Anne has been in Turkey for five weeks now after her husband suffered a devastating brain bleed—he is now in intensive care. Their holiday insurance company, Staysure, has refused to pay medical bills and has so far refused to engage with me. This has resulted in Anne being stuck with extortionate medical bills and surgery costs, which she has covered by using their life savings. With finances now running out, they are both stranded and have been advised that they will need to find at least £50,000 to pay for an air ambulance to bring them home. Will the Prime Minister meet me to consider all possible options to support constituents such as Anne and her husband in difficult situations such as that, especially where insurance companies abdicate all responsibility?
Context
A constituent, Anne, and her husband are stuck in Turkey after a medical emergency. Their insurance company, Staysure, has refused to pay medical bills.
Rishi Sunak
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. I am very sorry to hear about the case that he raises. My thoughts are with Anne and her husband, as I am sure everyone's will be, at this difficult time. I will ensure that the hon. Gentleman gets a meeting as soon as possible with the relevant Minister to discuss and progress this case further.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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Invites PM to visit Gorebridge for a drop-in event where constituents can get advice on managing costs, asking what real-life experience means to her?
Context
The speaker invites the Prime Minister to a community drop-in event on cost of living in his constituency.
Elizabeth Truss
Families are struggling; Government acted within a week of coming into office with energy price guarantee, reversed national insurance increase, cutting basic rate tax to keep more money. Extra £1,200 support for vulnerable households.
Assessment
Direct invitation was not answered affirmatively
Session: PMQs
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The Electoral Commission performs a crucial independent role in regulating UK elections. What does the Prime Minister plan that requires his Government to attempt to direct this independent regulator?
Context
The Government is seeking to alter the role of the Electoral Commission, an independent body overseeing UK elections and tackling electoral fraud.
Boris Johnson
For brevity, I can say absolutely nothing about any specific plans.
Assessment
plans to direct the independent regulator
For Brevity
Session: PMQs
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Why is the Prime Minister willing to put the livelihoods of farmers and crofters across Scotland in peril for a shoddy trade deal with Australia, which will not even cover 1% of the lost opportunities to Europe's markets that we have lost through Brexit?
Context
There are concerns from stakeholders that the Prime Minister's negotiations with Australia for a trade deal may negatively impact Scottish farmers and crofters, despite the lack of benefits compared to European markets post-Brexit.
Boris Johnson
We have not lost opportunities to Europe's markets through Brexit.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address concerns about Scottish farmers or the trade deal's benefit compared to European market access.
Changing Subject
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister commit to undertaking a UK-wide independent review of experiences related to the 1984 miners' strike, including political interference and reconciliation efforts?
Context
Mid-Lothian has a mining heritage. The Scottish Government announced a general pardon for miners criminalised during the 1984 strike, but issues remain with UK Government oversight.
Boris Johnson
I am grateful for the hon. Gentleman raising this. I would be obliged if he could send me further particulars on his concerns which I will address.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not commit to an independent review or reconciliation efforts.
Requesting More Details
Session: PMQs
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Will he tell us clearly, without bluff and bluster, when the report will be published, why it has been delayed for so long, and when he will reconvene the Intelligence and Security Committee?
Context
Prime Minister's history of ducking democratic scrutiny, receipt of Russian donations.
Boris Johnson (Prime Minister)
The report will of course be published—as the hon. Gentleman knows full well—when the Intelligence and Security Committee is reconstituted, and I think that his conspiratorial frame of mind is likely to be thoroughly disappointed by the results.
Session: PMQs
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Yesterday, the EU published the Erasmus+ programme annual report. It showed that Edinburgh University is the top UK institution for sending students on the scheme. The number of incoming higher education EU staff stood at 4,970 across the UK. The educational benefits are clearly endless. Will the Prime Minister now prioritise talks on the UK's continued participation, so we do not face any delay in joining the next cycle from 2021?
Context
The EU's annual report on the Erasmus+ programme shows Edinburgh University as the top UK institution for sending students. The number of incoming higher education staff from the EU is 4,970 across the UK.
Boris Johnson
Nothing in withdrawal from the EU stops UK students being able to pursue their hopes, their dreams around the whole of the European Union, and we will ensure that that is the case.
Assessment
Did not address the specific ask about prioritising talks for participation
Session: PMQs
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That was an interesting answer from the Secretary of State. The Government and the loyal Opposition have both pledged to commit to Trident renewal, investing obscene amounts of money that would be better used to improve our NHS, to help households with the cost of living and to support personnel or, indeed, veterans. When will the Secretary of State agree that Trident renewal is an obscene waste of money, which could be put to much better uses?
Context
The MP followed up by questioning the Secretary of State about whether Trident's high costs, estimated at £21 billion, should be reconsidered in light of social welfare needs.
Grant Shapps
I was recently at Faslane in Scotland, and I can tell the right hon. Gentleman that that is not what the people employed in the defence sector think about Trident. In my view, every other issue that we face comes after the defence of this realm.
Session: Trident Renewal Cost
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What recent estimate has been made of the cost to the public purse of Trident renewal. According to the House of Commons Library briefing, Trident renewal is expected to cost £21 billion in 2022-23 prices while one in three children lives in poverty.
Context
The MP inquired about the financial implications of renewing Trident, citing concerns over its high costs relative to social welfare needs.
Grant Shapps
I was recently at Faslane in Scotland, and I can tell the right hon. Gentleman that that is not what the people employed in the defence sector think about Trident. In my view, every other issue that we face comes after the defence of this realm.
Session: Trident Renewal Cost
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I thank the Minister for that answer. In Scotland, as across the rest of the UK, there has been a shortage of minibus drivers, with Brexit and the legacy of covid fuelling a crippling shortage of bus drivers. Passenger-carrying vehicle drivers can pursue careers in various fields, including public transport, tour and travel companies, school transportation and private charter services. What more can the Government do to incentivise such training?
Context
There is a shortage of minibus drivers in Scotland and the rest of the UK, exacerbated by Brexit and the pandemic. Passenger-carrying vehicle drivers can work in various fields such as public transport, tour and travel companies, school transportation, and private charter services.
Guy Opperman
The hon. Gentleman might not be aware of the recent consultation to reduce the age requirement for bus and HGV drivers from 21 to 18, and I encourage him to speak to the Department for Work and Pensions. We are working closely with the relevant Ministers at DWP to have sector-based work academies and skills boot camps, to encourage greater participation by drivers.
Session: D1 Licence Training
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Whether his Department provides grants for the provision of training for D1 licences.
Context
The question arises from a need within the transport sector to provide grants or funding to support drivers obtaining D1 licences, which are necessary for operating passenger-carrying vehicles.
Guy Opperman
Although we do not provide direct funding for drivers to obtain D1 licences, the Department makes available more than £3 million a year through the bus service operators grant to community transport operators in England, which are predominantly charities operating vehicles that require D1 licences. They receive £1.60 for every £1 claimed, reflecting the increased costs faced by the sector, and supporting them to continue delivering inclusive and accessible transport across the country.
Session: D1 Licence Training
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Given that the arms export licence criteria aim to prevent fuelling atrocities, does the Minister agree with constituents who believe the Government should now suspend arms transfers to Israel due to potential war crimes and violations?
Context
The question stems from concerns over the potential for UK military weaponry to fuel future atrocities in Gaza based on evidence of war crimes.
Andrew Mitchell
Our position on the arms embargo is consistent with most like-minded partners who have not suspended licences. It would be an odd decision for us to take when we use our own military weaponry to defend Israel from attacks.
Session: Strategic Export Licences Israel
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If the Government will revoke strategic export licences to Israel, given the extensive evidence of potential war crimes and violations by Israel in Gaza. The UK's arms export licence criteria aim to prevent fuelling future atrocities.
Context
The question arises from concerns about the conduct of military operations in Gaza and potential violations of international humanitarian law.
Andrew Mitchell
The British position on export licences is unchanged, but it will be kept under review. The UK's approach is consistent with most like-minded partners who have not suspended existing arms export licences to Israel.
Session: Strategic Export Licences Israel
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Fraserburgh-based Gray & Adams is the UK's pre-eminent manufacturer of refrigerated trailers—I am told they were involved in the design of regulations in the early days of refrigerated transport. Will the Minister meet me and Gray & Adams's management and engineers to see what can be done to ensure that regulations are updated at a pace that keeps up with the ongoing innovations made by that great example of British manufacturing?
Context
The question involves Fraserburgh-based Gray & Adams and their role in the design of regulations.
Guy Opperman
My hon. Friend has been a fantastic champion for Fraserburgh and for that business in particular. I know very well the issue in respect of longer semi-trailers and compliance with the regulations. I would be delighted to meet him and the company, and I assure both the company and the wider industry that we are working to find a way forward on this question, because it matters and we want to support that business.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last October, peak fares were scrapped across Scotland's railways for six months. That has been extended to nine months, until the end of June. As a result, ScotRail services are 4% busier and demand has shifted across the service day. Meanwhile, Department for Transport-owned London North Eastern Railway has pushed up prices for thousands of tickets in the name of simplification, in some cases costing passengers going to and from Scotland hundreds of pounds extra. Will the Minister look to the lessons that Scotland has learned from scrapping peak fares, and apply that policy across Anglo-Scottish services?
Context
Scotland has scrapped peak fares and extended the policy. Owen Thompson asks if similar policies will be implemented across Anglo-Scottish services.
Huw Merriman
I am delighted to talk about things that are being scrapped, because perhaps we can shift towards rail freight. The SNP budget has just been set. Mode shift revenue support has always been given to rail freight, to move freight from road to rail, but the SNP Scottish Government have just announced that they are axing that subsidy. Not only that, but for the year to come, the cross-border subsidy between Scotland and the rest of Great Britain is being scrapped, too.
Session: Rail Fares
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Half of personnel do not believe their families benefit from being a service family. What does the Secretary of State propose to do to listen to families and implement policies to make a difference?
Context
The 2023 armed forces satisfaction survey shows that half of personnel do not believe their families benefit from service life.
Grant Shapps
It is important that our service personnel feel honoured when they go to war but also comfortable at home. I am pressing forward with the review of armed service accommodation, providing £400 million for improvements.
Session: Topical Questions
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What more can be done to ensure that when women complain of such harassment action is taken to protect them from unfortunate situations?
Context
A local councillor in Midlothian experienced sexual harassment at a public event, with no action taken despite the complaint.
Laura Farris
The Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Act 2023, which received Royal Assent recently, creates an offence of intentional harassment carried out because of a person's sex. It could cover the case mentioned and further discussion is invited.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Legislation
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Why does a private company seem to be doing more to curb the spread of electoral misinformation than this Government?
Context
Meta has banned AI in political ads, raising questions about government regulatory efforts.
Saqib Bhatti
The Government is serious about protecting democratic processes, supporting cross-Government efforts like the defending democracy taskforce and election cell to identify harmful material on social media platforms.
Session: AI-generated Content Social Media
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What steps her Department is taking to tackle harmful AI-generated content on social media?
Context
The Online Safety Act 2023 received Royal Assent, designed to regulate harmful AI-generated content on social media.
Saqib Bhatti
The Online Safety Act 2023 regulates AI-generated content in a similar manner as human-generated content, covering user-shared content, search results generated by AI, and AI-generated pornography. Additionally, the Act criminalises sharing deepfake intimate image abuse.
Session: AI-generated Content Social Media
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AI has been used by public authorities in various contexts affecting individual rights. Does the Secretary of State agree that public trust is essential for any changes to the law and that greater consultation is required?
Context
The question stems from the need for public trust in AI used by authorities, as well as the importance of consultation.
Chloe Smith
The hon. Gentleman makes a thoughtful point. We need a comprehensive public debate, considering both risks and opportunities like job matching through technology. Further conversations will be had as we go forward with this critical technology.
Session: Artificial Intelligence
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While we wait for the upcoming pay review, may I ask what assessment the Minister's Department has made of relative poverty rates among our service personnel and, while they await a significant pay rise, what work it is doing with the Department for Work and Pensions to signpost colleagues to the benefits that they are eligible for?
Context
The question stems from concerns about the relative poverty rates and significant pay rise for military personnel, highlighting the need to direct them towards benefits they are eligible for.
Andrew Murrison
The hon. Gentleman will be aware that, in addition to pay, things such as wraparound childcare and subsidised healthcare and dental care are available to members of our armed forces, as well as subsidised accommodation, the freezing of food charges and help with council tax—things that we have done in these difficult times to take the edge off the cost of living crisis.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister therefore agree that any regulations through the Bill that would amend, repeal or revoke any Scottish legislation or any devolved matter cannot possibly come into force without the consent of Scottish Ministers? From the figures that I have seen, his constituency of Midlothian currently has no asylum seekers in dispersal accommodation and no asylum seekers in contingency accommodation such as hotels. Zero asylum seekers in his constituency. He is, I am afraid, yet another example of humanitarian nimbyism by the SNP.
Context
Concerns over the rapid progress of the Illegal Migration Bill and the lack of opportunity for proper consideration by devolved administrations.
Robert Jenrick
I think that I just made clear that I have reached out to colleagues in the Scottish Government. But immigration is a reserved matter, and it is a matter for this Parliament to dictate our future borders policy. I hope that the hon. Gentleman will support the Bill.
Session: Illegal Immigration Bill Devolved Administrations
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Whether she has had recent discussions with the devolved Administrations on the Illegal Immigration Bill. Not only is the Bill being driven through Parliament at breakneck speed, but the Scottish Government have been given no opportunity yet to consider the proposals properly before their introduction. Does the Minister therefore agree that any regulations through the Bill that would amend, repeal or revoke any Scottish legislation or any devolved matter cannot possibly come into force without the consent of Scottish Ministers?
Context
The question follows concerns about the rapid progress of the Illegal Migration Bill and the lack of opportunity for proper consideration by devolved administrations.
Robert Jenrick
I am in regular correspondence with the devolved Administrations about the Illegal Migration Bill. I recently met the Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture, Angus Robertson, and last week I wrote to the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice to propose a meeting, which I hope will happen later this week. Immigration is a reserved matter, and it is a matter for this Parliament to dictate our future borders policy.
Session: Illegal Immigration Bill Devolved Administrations
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What efforts will be made through the recently announced review of veterans' experiences? What attention will be paid to the different experiences of veterans in the four nations?
Context
The MP asked for attention to be paid to different veteran experiences across the UK's four nations.
Andrew Murrison
The Minister looks forward to discussing with the hon. Member later this week, noting that the review is aimed at understanding better how to support veterans effectively in each nation.
Session: Veterans’ Welfare
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The Institute of Welsh Affairs says that budgetary pressures highlight the impotence of Welsh devolution and that tax scheme changes by the Scottish Government are a model that would help Wales's financial situation. If the UK Government will not provide vital increases to devolved budgets, will the Secretary of State explore devolving similar tax-varying powers to Wales, as in Scotland, to help the Welsh Government mitigate the Tory mismanagement from this place?
Context
The Institute of Welsh Affairs suggests that the Scottish Government's model of changing tax schemes could help mitigate financial issues in Wales. The question seeks exploration of similar power devolution for Wales.
David Davies
I am not quite sure I follow what the hon. Gentleman is saying, because of course the Welsh Government do actually have tax-varying powers. They have chosen not to use them, because the Welsh Government recognise that taxes have already increased as far as is sensible, and that means that all of us have to deal with the constraints that have come about as a result of the very difficult economic situation we face due to covid and the impact of a land war in Ukraine.
Session: Devolved Budget for Wales Impact of Inflation
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What assessment he has made of the potential impact of inflation on the devolved budget for Wales?
Context
The Welsh Government's funding is under scrutiny due to the effects of high inflation. The question seeks an assessment from the government on how inflation impacts the devolved budget.
David Davies
The Welsh Government are well-funded to deliver public services in Wales. As a result of the autumn statement, Welsh Government funding is increasing by around £1.2 billion over the next two years. That is on top of the additional £2.5 billion a year on average announced at spending review. The Prime Minister has also been clear that we will halve inflation to ease the cost of living.
Session: Devolved Budget for Wales Impact of Inflation
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Can the Secretary of State give an assurance that he will respect the mandate coming forward from any Northern Ireland Assembly election?
Context
There is a concern about the government's respect for democratic mandates in devolved assemblies.
Chris Heaton-Harris
He should not lecture about not respecting democratic votes. However, this Government and all parties in Parliament want to see the Executive and the Assembly restored, and any election result will be respected as past results should be.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol Assembly Elections
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Again, I do not think that got to the point. The Joint Committee on Human Rights recommended in its report last year that the UK Government should “not pursue reform” of the Human Rights Act without the consent of the Scottish Parliament, the Welsh Senedd and the Northern Ireland Assembly. As the UK Government have failed to get that consent, does the Minister not see the vital need for devolved nations to have a right to self-determination enshrined in law?
Context
The Joint Committee on Human Rights recommended against UK Government reforming the Human Rights Act without devolved consent.
David Davies
I think the devolved nations, such as Wales, will be very pleased that my right hon. Friend the Justice Secretary is bringing in legislation that will stop the ridiculous time-wasting of people taking endless appeals, at public expense, to the courts to challenge judicial decisions.
Session: Bill of Rights Self-determination for Wales
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If he will make an assessment with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the Bill of Rights on the right for self-determination for Wales.
Context
The Joint Committee on Human Rights recommended against reforming the Human Rights Act without devolved consent. The Bill of Rights may affect this recommendation.
David Davies
The Bill of Rights will continue to protect the same rights and freedoms currently in place, but will restore a common-sense approach to human rights, safeguarding the public interest and respecting the will of Parliament.
Session: Bill of Rights Self-determination for Wales
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The miners strike of 1984-85 was hugely traumatic in my Midlothian constituency and other coalfield communities. Although the future is bright, many people still need closure. Will the Secretary of State follow the Scottish Government's lead and pardon convictions from that period, and launch the UK-wide inquiry necessary to finally close this episode?
Context
The miners strike of 1984-85 was a significant period in coalfield communities.
Dominic Raab
I understand the passion with which the hon. Gentleman spoke. We do not have current plans to do so, but if he wants to write to me on that issue I will, of course, look at it and reflect.
Session: Topical Questions
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People could be given as little as seven days' notice of deportation, insufficient for them to seek legal advice. Does the Minister agree with the Law Society that this undermines fair processing?
Context
Under the government's plans, people could receive as little as seven days' notice of deportation and face challenges in seeking legal advice.
Gareth Johnson
Access to legal advice is extremely important, which is why 30 minutes of telephone legal advice and legal aid are available to asylum claimants in this country.
Session: Rwanda Partnership Legal Compatibility
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Despite issues remaining for many, the HGV driver shortages, exacerbated by Brexit and covid, have marginally improved and drivers are now receiving the higher pay they rightfully deserve, although working conditions remain an issue. Many of the recruits are coming from the bus driving sector, which is causing significant driver shortages, cuts to timetables and service cancellations across the UK, and which is having an impact on passengers and net zero ambitions. What recent discussions has the Secretary of State had with the Home Secretary on expanding the shortage occupation list to include bus drivers?
Context
The MP highlighted issues with HGV driver shortages, exacerbated by Brexit and COVID-19. He noted that recruitment from the bus driving sector has led to significant driver shortages, cuts in timetables, service cancellations across the UK, impacting passengers and net zero ambitions.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
The newly established transport employment and skills taskforce is already taking steps to identify and address the shortage of skills and jobs across the transport sector that we face now, and it is thinking about how we tackle this for the future. We are supporting new HGV driver training through apprenticeships and we are working with the Department for Work and Pensions to support jobseekers to become HGV drivers. We want to make sure that we grow this pool.
Session: Transport Sector Vacancies and Shortage Occupations
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Whether she has had recent discussions with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on the (a) level of vacancies and (b) potential merits of expanding the shortage occupation list in the transport sector.
Context
The MP raised concerns about labour shortages and potential merits of expanding the shortage occupation list for the transport sector, specifically noting recent discussions with the Home Secretary.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
The Department regularly reviews the impact of labour shortages on the transport industry. Currently, there are 54,000 vacancies in the transport and storage sector, so my officials are in frequent contact with Home Office colleagues to ensure that the needs of the transport industry are reflected in their next review of the shortage occupation list.
Session: Transport Sector Vacancies and Shortage Occupations
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Does the representative of the Speaker's Committee agree with board members that the Elections Act seriously undermines the independence of the Electoral Commission?
Context
The questioner raises multiple issues, including the removal of human rights protections and changes to the Electoral Commission's powers.
Chris Matheson
Let me repeat the statement that the Electoral Commission itself has issued: it believes that the introduction of a strategy and policy statement would be inconsistent with the role of an independent Electoral Commission. We are currently engaged in consultation on the Government's draft strategy and policy statement.
Session: Elections Act 2022 Electoral Commission
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Can I press this Minister further to expand a little more on what he suggested to the hon. Member for Bracknell earlier regarding expanding services and inquiries for veterans?
Context
The previous Minister for Defence People declined to uphold the decision of this House to hold an inquiry, prompting a push for further clarification on improvements.
Johnny Mercer
My line on Veterans UK has always been the same: it needs to improve its output, and I will be working closely with my colleagues and others to ensure that veterans receive a better service from Veterans UK.
Session: Topical Questions
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The United Nations said that the UK Government's cruel Rwanda policy breaches international law. The Home Office's equalities impact assessment of the policy clearly states the dangers for LGBTQI+ people and the UK Government's website advises against travel to Rwanda for LGBTQI+ people. Women for Refugee Women stated that threatening the removal to Rwanda of women fleeing gender-based violence exposes them to further risk of violence and harm. How can the UK Government justify this cruel policy?
Context
The question is prompted by UN criticism that the UK Government's Rwanda policy breaches international law and concerns over safety for LGBTQI+ people and women fleeing gender-based violence, as stated by Women for Refugee Women.
Amanda Solloway
We have published a robust country assessment, which will be used by caseworkers to inform relocation decisions for each individual case. Nobody will be relocated if it is unsafe to do so.
Session: Transferring Asylum Seekers to Rwanda Government’s Equalities Policy
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If she will make an assessment of the potential effect of transferring asylum seekers to Rwanda under the migration and economic development partnership on (a) the Government's equalities policy, (b) LGBTQI refugees and (c) refugees with protected characteristics.
Context
The question arises from concerns about the UK Government's migration and economic development partnership with Rwanda, particularly regarding its impact on equalities policy, LGBTQI refugees, and those with protected characteristics.
Amanda Solloway
Rwanda is a safe and secure country with respect for the rule of law. We would only ever work with countries that we know are safe, and we will treat asylum seekers in accordance with the relevant international human rights laws. Furthermore, Rwanda's constitution includes a broad prohibition on discrimination.
Session: Transferring Asylum Seekers to Rwanda Government’s Equalities Policy
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Will the Minister commit to exploring in the review how to close loopholes like Diablo Immortal's “rift” feature, and will the Department meet with Blizzard?
Context
The regulation of loot boxes in video games is a concern due to their potential as a form of blind gambling.
Nigel Huddleston
The issue of loot boxes is under review and protecting children from such practices is front and centre, but no specific commitments or meetings were announced.
Session: Gambling Review White Paper
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What is her time-scale for publishing a gambling review white paper?
Context
The question arises from the need for a comprehensive update on gambling regulations in light of recent technological advancements and societal concerns.
Nigel Huddleston
The review remains a priority for the Department, and we will publish a White Paper setting out conclusions and a vision for the sector in the coming weeks.
Session: Gambling Review White Paper
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It is estimated that the Chancellor's smash and grab on national insurance will raise £13 billion. By happy coincidence, at the end of the financial year the Chancellor will have an extra £13 billion-worth of borrowing, because the Government have not met the borrowing expectations. Will the Chancellor use that happy coincidence to scrap the tax on jobs?
Context
The Chancellor's National Insurance changes raised an estimated £13 billion. The question highlights the coincidence that this amount is similar to the unmet borrowing expectation at year-end.
Rishi Sunak
The forecast for the public finances will be updated next week. As for jobs, I am happy to confirm that, according to today's figures, there are record numbers of people on payrolls, record numbers of vacancies, and, indeed, more people in work now than before the crisis—and the unemployment rate is now lower than, or at the same level as, it was before coronavirus hit.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the commission take into account indirect financial costs such as administrative and enforcement expenses related to voter identity provisions when assessing the overall cost impact of the Elections Bill?
Context
The previous estimate did not account for indirect financial implications of voter identity provisions.
Chris Matheson
It is not the commission's responsibility to justify such costs; it is the Government's duty as sponsors of the legislation. The hon. Gentleman can raise expenditure concerns directly with the commission at their next meeting.
Session: Elections Bill Costs
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What estimate has the Committee made regarding the potential cost of implementing the Elections Bill's changes? The MP seeks clarity on financial impacts, especially considering previous discussions about moral and democratic concerns raised by Scottish National Party members.
Context
The Committee is assessing the cost implications of proposed changes to election administration and conduct under the Elections Bill.
Chris Matheson
The Electoral Commission estimates £16 million over five years for its work connected with the Bill. It does not assess cost to others, but highlights the need for appropriate funding for realistic delivery by electoral administrators. The commission's annual funding is subject to approval through the Speaker's Committee process.
Session: Elections Bill Costs
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Exports from GB to ROI have crashed by more than 20% since Brexit, costing £3 billion. Meanwhile, NI exports to ROI soared by 64% in 2021. Does the Secretary recognise the overwhelming benefits of being in a market seven times larger than UK?
Context
Since Brexit, exports from Great Britain to the Republic of Ireland have dropped by over 20%, while Northern Irish exports to the Republic soared. The MP questions if the Secretary acknowledges these benefits.
Brandon Lewis
We see businesses in NI stopping deliveries to customers, medicines having issues, consumers reduced choice on shelves, garden centres unable to get plants from GB. This is unsustainable and unfair to the people of Northern Ireland.
Session: Balance of Trade with Great Britain and the EU
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What proposals can the Government come up with to take account of the views of the whistleblower in calling for further action to end subsidising hate online? The Joint Committee is doing important work gathering evidence from Frances Haugen and others.
Context
A Facebook whistleblower has revealed that hateful political ads are five to ten times cheaper for customers, and Facebook has since banned companies from targeting ads based on users' political beliefs, sexual orientation or religion.
Nadine Dorries
I take this opportunity to thank the Joint Committee for the work it has undertaken, particularly gathering evidence from Frances Haugen and others. We have taken a huge body of evidence. The Joint Committee is doing that very work at the moment. I am confident that every one of the examples highlighted will be legislated for in the regulatory framework given to Ofcom.
Session: Harmful Content Online
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What progress has been made on introducing legislative proposals to establish a new regulatory framework to tackle harmful content online? The draft Bill was published in May 2021, but the questioner seeks details on current status and expected completion timeline.
Context
The draft Bill was published in May 2021 and pre-legislative scrutiny is ongoing.
Nadine Dorries
The draft Bill was published in May 2021. Pre-legislative scrutiny is under way, but we expect the Joint Committee to report by 10 December. This scrutiny is a vital part in ensuring that the Bill delivers what we need to protect people online.
Session: Harmful Content Online
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The principle behind the funds is fine, but the prioritisation of Tory-held seats reveals them to be pork barrel politics. Will the Secretary of State accept greater devolution for beneficial local control?
Context
Concerns about prioritisation favouring Tory-held seats in Scotland and Wales.
Simon Hart
These funds allow 22 local authorities and stakeholders in Wales to have a say, with Labour areas receiving 44% of UK community renewal fund, Plaid Cymru 24%, independents 17%, and Conservatives 15%. The Welsh Government does not have a monopoly on wisdom.
Session: Levelling-up Fund and Shared Prosperity Fund
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I listened with interest to the non-answers given to my hon. Friends earlier, and I wonder whether any more light could be shed on why this Government are so intent on applying a pre-crime approach, on thinking that people might try to commit voter identity fraud, and on suppressing millions, yet ignoring the actual evidence of dark money and large donations to political parties. Can more light be shed on exactly why they are taking that approach?
Context
The Government's focus on preventing potential voter identity fraud is questioned by the MP.
Michael Ellis
I invite the hon. Gentleman to read the court's judgement in the 2015 Tower Hamlets case, and he will find out exactly the nature of the problem that the Government are seeking to redress. We will redress other problems as and when they become necessary.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Construction Workers: Pension Age
12 July 2023
Responding: Guy Opperman
Main Concerns
["Mr Owen Thompson is concerned about the impact of raising the state pension age to 68 on construction workers. He highlighted that around 2.2 million people were working in construction across the UK, with 31% aged between 50 and 64. In Scotland alone, 54,000 out of 160,000 construction workers are within this age group. Research by Unite found that only 797,000 employees in the construction sector (or 36%) were paying into a pension, creating a 'pension black hole'. Additionally, he pointed to mental health issues exacerbated by construction's demanding nature and its male-dominated culture."]
Specific Asks
['Mr Thompson asks for urgent action from the government to address the pension savings gap in the construction sector. He proposes conducting a full review into the issue of pensions within the industry to find solutions that prevent an entire generation of workers from facing financial hardship in their retirement.']
Miners Strike 1984-85: UK-wide Inquiry
29 June 2022
Responding: Kit Malthouse
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the real-world consequences faced by miners and their families, including criminal records, lost pensions, and social stigma. He highlights arbitrary sentences, political interference in policing, and financial injustices such as loss of redundancy payments and pension rights. The unfair treatment during the strikes has shaped politics and community relations, with lasting impacts on mining communities.']
Specific Asks
['The MP calls for a public inquiry into the policing of the miners strike to address these issues, aiming for redress and reconciliation. He also advocates for compensation schemes for ex-miners and their families who have suffered financial losses due to unfair dismissal.']
Mavisbank House
07 December 2021
Responding: Nigel Huddleston
Main Concerns
["Mr Owen Thompson is concerned about the deteriorating state of Mavisbank House, a category A listed building near Loanhead in Midlothian. The house, considered Scotland's first Palladian villa and a crucial piece of architectural history from the early 18th century, stands neglected and gutted due to decades of neglectful ownership. Mr Thompson highlights its historical significance, including connections to the Scottish Enlightenment and involvement in the slave trade. He also mentions the Save Mavisbank project aiming to restore the house with environmental, health, economic, and cultural benefits for Midlothian."]
Specific Asks
['Mr Owen Thompson asks the Minister to meet him and representatives from Save Mavisbank to discuss how they can support the restoration of Mavisbank House. He seeks funding assistance beyond the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which has rejected their bid twice.']
Geothermal Energy — [Mr Laurence Robertson in the Chair]
15 September 2021
Responding: Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Main Concerns
["Mr Owen Thompson is concerned about the limited progress of geothermal energy extraction in the UK despite its vast potential. He highlights that heating and hot water make up around 40% of the UK's energy consumption, and estimates suggest that geothermal resources could deliver about 100 years' worth of heat supply for the entire country. However, he notes that challenges such as ownership, planning frameworks, upfront costs, regulatory issues, and site identification must be addressed to fully exploit this potential. He also mentions specific projects like the Shawfair mine-water project in Midlothian, which stalled due to ownership issues."]
Specific Asks
['Mr Owen Thompson calls for a clear geothermal roadmap and reliable financial incentives from the Government to support the development of geothermal energy. He wants streamlined regulations that underpin projects and highlights the need for cross-border research initiatives.']
Covid-19: Government Support
07 July 2021
Responding: Jesse Norman
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the exclusion of millions from government support schemes during the pandemic. He mentions that over 800,000 people have been unable to access the coronavirus job retention scheme due to a real-time information cut-off date and disputes the Treasury's claim that amending the date will open eligibility for an additional 600,000 self-employed individuals. The MP also highlights issues with discretionary grant funds and the lack of support for supply chain businesses in the events sector. He notes that excluded groups have been turned to universal credit as a last resort but estimates about 60% cannot access it due to factors like partner employment or business expenses. Additionally, he raises concerns about a looming toxic debt crisis and its impact on key industries and mental health."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the government to explore solutions urgently, such as backdated parity of support, delayed repayments for CBILs and bounce back loans, and a student loan-style repayment scheme. He also requests that the minister coordinate a meeting between excluded groups and campaigners.']
Cyber-troop Activity: UK
09 March 2021
Responding: Caroline Dinenage
Main Concerns
['The MP is concerned about the industrialised disinformation by state and political actors that undermines democracy in the UK. He mentions specific incidents such as micro-targeting to deter voters from participating, foreign interference like Chinese, Russian, and Iranian-backed campaigns, and domestic issues involving bot manipulation and misleading content. The lack of transparency and regulation around online political advertising is also highlighted.']
Specific Asks
['The MP calls for the Government to take action against cyber-troop activities, implement tougher rules in future referenda, improve regulation through the online safety Bill, and collect data on cyber-troop activity to assess the threat properly. He asks that the Government look at electoral reforms urgently.']
Fiscal Support for Events Industry: Covid-19
13 October 2020
Responding: John Glen
Main Concerns
['The events industry has been devastated by the pandemic, with around 1 million people employed in this sector. The cultural map of events has been wiped out since March 2020. Businesses like VisionEvents have lost income overnight and are facing mass redundancies despite innovative efforts to adapt virtually. Many freelancers, estimated at 3 million people, fall through the gaps in government support schemes and risk losing their homes or struggling in poverty.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should meet with industry representatives from the We Make Events campaign to address specific challenges faced by the events sector. The Minister is asked to extend the remit of the culture recovery fund to cover the live events supply chain fully, ensuring that all businesses and freelancers receive adequate support.']
Backbench Business
16 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate urges the UK Government to deliver prompt compensation to women born in the 1950s who had their state pension age raised. The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman report highlights th...
Backbench Business
09 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Morris opened the debate by highlighting the struggle of miners and their pension issues. He criticised the Government for taking nearly £5 billion from the mineworkers' pension scheme without contrib...
Ceasefire in Gaza
21 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Post Office Management Culture
08 February 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The management culture of the Post Office, exemplified by the Horizon IT scandal, is characterised by secrecy and a lack of transparency. Despite efforts to change this culture since Nick Read took ov...
Defending the UK and Allies
15 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Palestine
08 January 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Miners’ Strike (Pardons)
19 December 2023
General Debate
Led by this MP
Welcomes the opportunity to discuss a pardon for miners who were wrongfully convicted during the 1984-85 miners' strike, emphasising the importance of reconciliation and justice. He highlights the Sco...
Veterans Welfare Services
21 November 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Violence Reduction, Policing and Criminal Justice
15 November 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Correcting the Record
24 October 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Proposes the expansion of the formal ministerial corrections process to all Members of Parliament, emphasising transparency and accountability. Acknowledges the current system for ministerial correcti...
7
PMQs Asked
60
Ministerial Questions Asked
105
House of Commons Debates Involved
7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+348% above average
This MP:
60
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+178% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2061% above average
This MP:
105
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Owen Thompson's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.