Paul Blomfield
MP for Sheffield Central
Lab
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
My constituent Jenni Garratt's building was evacuated due to safety concerns and she faces significant financial burdens like waking watch fees and parking costs. In an ITV interview, the Prime Minister dismissed her worries as unnecessary. Will he meet with her before the Building Safety Bill is finalised?
Context
Jenni Garratt, a cladding scandal victim, has faced financial burdens such as waking watch costs. She is anxious about her building's safety.
Boris Johnson
The Prime Minister sympathises with Jenni Garratt's situation but believes it's unnecessary anxiety due to market confidence issues.
Assessment
Commitment to meet and address her concerns
It Is Unnecessary Anxiety
Session: PMQs
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Last night, I met again with leaseholders whose lives have been torn apart by the cladding and building safety scandal. The Prime Minister will recall that he told the House on 3 February that 'no leaseholder should have to pay for the unaffordable costs of fixing safety defects that they did not cause and are no fault of their own.'—[Official Report, 3 February 2021; Vol. 688, c. 945.] No ifs, no buts: an unequivocal pledge. The Government's measures so far fall well short of fulfilling it, so could the Prime Minister say now not what has been done, but what he will do to deliver his promise?
Context
The Prime Minister previously pledged that no leaseholders should pay for unaffordable costs of fixing safety defects they did not cause. Current measures fall short of fulfilling this promise.
Boris Johnson
In addition to the £3.5 billion of investment that we have provided to remediate the cladding and the £1.6 billion that we have already done, we are providing a new scheme for leaseholders in the lower-risk buildings of, I think, the kind that the hon. Gentleman is describing, to pay for unsafe remediation over the long term. There will also be a new levy and tax on developers, so that they also contribute to the remediation costs.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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In front of the Liaison Committee last week, the Prime Minister was clearly shocked to learn that many migrants living and working lawfully in the UK have no recourse to public funds. Without support, many have been forced to continue working in unsafe conditions or have been pushed into extreme poverty. He promised the Liaison Committee that he would do all he could to help. Scrapping the policy would be the best step, so will he update the House on his progress?
Context
The question addresses a policy concerning migrants who are lawfully in the UK but have no recourse to public funds, potentially leading them into unsafe conditions or extreme poverty.
The Prime Minister
What I can tell the House is that everybody knows that no recourse to public funds is a long-standing condition that applies to people here with temporary immigration status, but it does not mean that they are necessarily excluded from all public funds. For instance, they may be eligible for coronavirus job retention scheme funds or self-employed income support scheme funds. Indeed, if they have paid into the benefit system, they may be eligible also for certain benefits.
Session: PMQs
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In pre-elections, the Prime Minister talked about national insurance cuts. However, workers earning less than £26,000 a year are worse off due to combined tax changes. Does the Minister recognise this? Will he apologize for misrepresenting the position?
Context
MP criticized government for misrepresenting national insurance cuts' positive impact, citing the Resolution Foundation.
Nigel Huddleston
We recognise challenges for those on lowest incomes, which is why we adopted measures including housing allowance. If so opposed to national insurance cuts, why did Leader of Opposition support them?
Session: Taxation Living Standards
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What recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of your tax policies on living standards?
Context
MP inquired about the recent assessment of the government's tax policies' impact on citizens' financial situations.
Nigel Huddleston
Thanks to national insurance cuts and above-inflation increases since 2010, the average worker on £35,400 will pay more than £1,500 less in personal taxes this year. Maintaining fuel duty rates at current levels represents a further £13 billion benefit to households over three years.
Session: Taxation Living Standards
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One of my constituents wrote to me last week about her son Fred. He has Down's syndrome and severe learning disabilities, is profoundly deaf and has an autism diagnosis. His parents and grandparents did the right thing and put money into a child trust fund for him. Fred will be 18 next month, but he lacks the capacity to access his money and there is no easy way for his parents to do so. Will the Chancellor work with colleagues in the Department for Work and Pensions and the Ministry of Justice to unlock the money for Fred and an estimated 80,000 disabled young people?
Context
A constituent wrote about her son Fred, who has Down's syndrome and other disabilities. The money in a child trust fund cannot be accessed as Fred lacks capacity.
Bim Afolami
I am happy to meet the hon. Member to discuss the precise circumstances of his constituent's case. In general terms, it is a priority for us to ensure that people get access to that money if it is due to them.
Session: Topical Questions
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I heard what the Minister has to say but does he not recognise the OBR's assessment of the interplay between the Government's threshold changes and NICs? The OBR concludes that for every 5p gain per year there is a 10p loss, particularly for those on lower wages. Does he accept the OBR assessment?
Context
The OBR concluded that for every 5p gain per year there is a 10p loss, particularly for those on lower wages.
Nigel Huddleston
I am sure that if the hon. Gentleman looks carefully, he will see that the Government have demonstrated their commitment to supporting the most vulnerable in society. He will also have heard my hon. Friend the Member for North East Bedfordshire (Richard Fuller) explain the circumstances as to why we have higher taxes than we would desire.
Session: Tax Policies Impact on Living Standards
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Does the Minister agree that the Israeli Government should be told by the UK and our allies to unlock aid and end killing, or face real consequences?
Context
Children are being killed and starved, while Israel is accused of failing to comply with the International Court of Justice ruling on humanitarian aid.
Andrew Mitchell
As the hon. Gentleman knows, the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have pressed Netanyahu and Herzog for more aid access. We aim to achieve a pause to get hostages out and more aid in.
Session: Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
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With just 137 homes upgraded in South Yorkshire under GBIS and constituents wanting bills cut, emissions reduced, and homes insulated, when will the Minister get a grip?
Context
The Great British insulation scheme, following previous failures like the green deal and green homes grant, has only insulated 137 of South Yorkshire's 1.4 million residents' homes.
Amanda Solloway
We are spending £6 billion in this Parliament and a further £6 billion up to 2028 to make buildings, including private rented properties, cleaner and warmer. That is in addition to the estimated £5 billion that will be delivered for ECO4—the energy company obligation—and the Great British insulation scheme up to March 2026.
Session: Fuel Poverty
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The Government have deliberately created a funding model for universities in which they are dependent on income from international students. Does the Chancellor share my concern about ensuring that nothing is done to undermine that income?
Context
Concern about a government policy that makes universities reliant on international student income.
Laura Trott
The university sector is one of the jewels of this country and I am proud that we have four of the world's top 20 universities. I am happy to look at any individual proposals from the hon. Gentleman.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that we need to demonstrate our commitment by recognising a Palestinian state and upgrading trade advice against settlements?
Context
The MP questioned the consistency of Israel's commitment to a two-state solution and called for recognition.
Andrew Mitchell
The Government's position on illegal settlements is clear. Previous progress has been made after acts of conflict, hoping more can be made now.
Session: Gaza
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What recent diplomatic steps have been taken to help secure a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza?
Context
The MP inquired about diplomatic actions taken to secure a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza.
Andrew Mitchell
We are calling for an immediate humanitarian pause, in order to get aid in and hostages out as a vital step towards a sustainable, permanent ceasefire.
Session: Gaza
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Each year, students have to apply for the Turing international mobility scheme before the Easter deadline, but those from widening participation backgrounds need to know that they have the money before they apply, and universities are getting confirmation of funding some months later, in June and July. I am sure the Secretary of State will agree that Turing should be open to all, so will she press Treasury colleagues for a multi-year funding settlement?
Context
Students have to apply for the Turing international mobility scheme before the Easter deadline, but those from widening participation backgrounds need confirmation of funding before applying.
Robert Halfon
I have enormous respect for the hon. Gentleman, and I listen carefully to what he says. We are working to smooth out any issues with the Turing scheme. However, it is worth noting that we have increased the proportion of disadvantaged students taking part in it from 50% to 60%. I am proud that we are embedding social justice in the scheme.
Session: Topical Questions
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Was the Secretary of State consulted about yesterday's announcement by the Home Secretary? If she was, did she agree with him that it will have no impact on overseas recruitment, or does she hear the fear of care providers about its consequences?
Context
The Home Secretary made an announcement regarding overseas recruitment of care workers, which sparked concerns among care providers.
Victoria Atkins
Yes, I was. What is more, we looked carefully at the figures in relation to overseas care workers. We are grateful to all international people who work in our NHS and our care system, but we need to tackle the migration rate, which is too high. The package presented yesterday by the Government is a thoughtful and careful one to tackle legal migration.
Session: Topical Questions
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As we have heard, the additional £15 million hardship funding for students announced last week amounts to less than £10 per head—significantly less, according to my sums—while the Institute for Fiscal Studies says that students are £1,500 a year worse off. Today, the all-party parliamentary group for students is launching an inquiry into the impact of the cost of living crisis on students, inviting submissions from students, their unions and institutions across the UK. Will the Minister agree to meet us to consider the evidence we receive?
Context
Additional £15 million hardship funding for students amounts to less than £10 per head, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies. The all-party parliamentary group for students is launching an inquiry into student hardship due to cost of living crisis.
Robert Halfon
Of course I would be delighted to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss the £276 million, along with other measures the Government have introduced, including the energy rebate and other support that we try to give students who are facing cost of living challenges.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the Secretary of State and her team to their roles. May I start by congratulating the Government on their international education strategy, which has already been mentioned? The Secretary of State knows that international students contribute £30 billion a year to the UK economy—much of it in areas identified by the Government for levelling up—and that they are vital to the viability of our universities, enrich learning for UK students and strengthen our role in the world. Does she therefore share the concern of Members on both sides of the House about reports that consideration is being given to returning to the failed policy of restricting numbers, and will she raise that concern with the Home Secretary?
Context
The MP welcomed the government's international education strategy, highlighting contributions from international students to the UK economy.
Robert Halfon
On the first part of the hon. Gentleman's question, I could not have put it better myself. International students add enormous value. As I mentioned in my previous answer and in the Westminster Hall debate we had a couple of weeks ago, we have met our target of 600,000 students a year early—before 2030—and that remains our target. By 2030, that will mean £35 billion-plus in exports.
Session: Topical Questions
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When I recently visited Sheffield College, students told me about the difficulty they face in accessing mental health services, and it is the same every time I visit a school to talk to students about the priorities for this place and for the Government. According to Mind, one in six young people have a mental health problem. We know that referrals for children and adolescents hit record numbers this summer. Early intervention is crucial but is simply not available. Young people are waiting months and months for their first appointment with child and adolescent mental health services after referral. There is a deepening crisis and, frankly, what the Minister just described will not address it, so what more will she do to ensure proper funding of mental health services for young people?
Context
The MP expressed concerns about students' difficulty in accessing mental health services at Sheffield College, noting that one in six young people have a mental health problem with referrals reaching record numbers this summer. He argued that the current state of affairs amounts to a deepening crisis.
Maria Caulfield
I have highlighted that there are additional pressures—more children and young people are coming forward with mental health conditions—but I assure the hon. Gentleman that we are putting early intervention directly into schools. Mental health support teams now cover 26% of pupils, with the aim of going up to 35% of pupils by April, and we intend to increase that further. So we are getting in as early as possible. Over 420,000 children and young people were treated through NHS-commissioned services in the last financial year.
Session: Mental Health Treatment Waiting Times
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What estimate has been made of the average waiting time for mental health treatment?
Context
The MP inquired about the average waiting times for mental health treatments, citing concerns over patient access to timely care.
Maria Caulfield
Waiting time targets for adult talking therapies were exceeded in 2021-22, with 91.1% accessing those services within six weeks and 98.6% within 18 weeks.
Session: Mental Health Treatment Waiting Times
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Contrary to last week's pledge by the Prime Minister, the latest Chancellor has said he will cut public spending. Sheffield Council has lost £2.1 billion and its annual grant is worth £288 million less than it was 12 years ago. Local services have been decimated as a result. Will the Secretary of State press the new Chancellor not to make any further cuts to council funding?
Context
Sheffield Council has seen its Government grant halved in real terms over the last 12 years.
Paul Scully
I am sure the hon. Gentleman will be awaiting the local government finance settlement, but in the meantime Sheffield high street has received nearly £16 million from the future high streets fund and £8.2 million for three projects through the community renewal fund.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Minister is right about expressing feelings of the whole House, but she will recognise that UK aid to Pakistan had been reduced dramatically after the government's overall reduction from 0.7% to 0.5%. Reports suggest a worsening humanitarian situation as attempts to stop Manchar lake overflowing have failed. What more will the Government do to help? Will she tell her new leader that tragic events such as this underline the need to prioritise action on climate change, not marginalise it?
Context
A report in April indicated that UK aid to Pakistan had been reduced dramatically after the government's overall reduction from 0.7% to 0.5%. Today, reports suggest a worsening humanitarian situation as attempts to stop Manchar lake overflowing have failed.
Vicky Ford
We are one of the largest donors of international aid in the world. We have contributed over 10% of the joint UN-Government of Pakistan emergency appeal, which is now £16.5 million. The UK Government focus on immediate needs and long-term strategies. The World Bank is already looking at a long-term needs assessment to help Pakistan recover.
Session: Pakistan Flood Relief
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A constituent wrote to me recently; she is 57 and works four days a week on the minimum wage. Her energy bill is rising from £95 to £220 a month, eating up an extra 11% of her take-home pay. Weekend reports suggest that Treasury action on the cost of living crisis has stalled due to the paralysis engulfing No. 10. Those struggling to heat their homes should not pay the price for the Prime Minister's conduct, so will the Chancellor agree to extend eligibility for the warm homes discount further and increase it beyond the pitiful £10 that is planned?
Context
A constituent in the questioner's constituency is working four days a week on minimum wage, experiencing significant increases in energy bills which take up an increasing portion of her income.
Rishi Sunak
Although I do not know the specific circumstances of the hon. Gentleman's constituent, it sounds like she will benefit from two measures that we have already announced: the significant increase in the national living wage by 6.6% in April; and the cut in the universal credit taper rate, which will mean that a single mother working full time on the national living wage will be an extra £1,200 better off.
Session: Cost of Living
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I certainly endorse the comments by the Secretary of State in relation to Holocaust Memorial Day. The latest figures for Sheffield from February 2020 to April 2021 show a 46% increase in the number of private renters claiming housing benefit, because wages are simply not keeping up with rising rents. Some 28% of private rentals in the city contain category 1 hazards, which involve serious risk of harm, compared with just 4% of social housing. As the cost of living crisis deepens and energy bills rise, what are the Government doing to alleviate pressure on private renters and when this year will the Secretary of State publish the rental reform White Paper?
Context
Data from February 2020 to April 2021 shows a significant increase in private renters claiming housing benefit, with high levels of category 1 hazards in private rentals compared to social housing.
Michael Gove (Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities)
The hon. Gentleman makes a very good point. It is the case that there are a number of people in the private rented sector who are not getting the deal that they deserve, both regarding the level of rent and the decency of their homes. I look forward to working with the hon. Gentleman on that.
Session: Topical Questions
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Last week, at a briefing for Members with the Minister for Afghan Resettlement, Home Office officials indicated that while the Department is not introducing a specific family reunion route, there is some flexibility on visa requirements for Afghan family members of British citizens. Will the Minister confirm, as we were told, that there could be flexibility on visa fees, income requirements and demands for lost or destroyed documents?
Context
Home Office officials indicated some flexibility on visa requirements for Afghan family members of British citizens but did not confirm specific details.
Kevin Foster
To be clear, the wider immigration system obviously operates separately from the Afghan citizens resettlement scheme, but we are carefully considering what the requirements are, and not least how we can ensure people can actually access the system to make applications because, as the hon. Gentleman will appreciate, for obvious reasons we cannot run our usual application centre that we would have in Kabul given the Taliban's control of the territory.
Session: Topical Questions
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As well as the Prime Minister's promise to bring vulnerable Afghans to refuge in this country, other Ministers suggested that they travel to neighbouring countries as the first step. I have constituents who took those Ministers at their word, but the Afghanistan resettlement scheme is not open, as we have noted, and those who fled are told to apply for expensive visas, with prohibitive salary requirements. Will the Minister at least agree to speak to the Home Secretary and the Prime Minister and urge them to fulfil their promises without delay?
Context
Some Afghan nationals seeking refuge have been told to apply for expensive visas with prohibitive salary requirements.
Amanda Milling
The Afghan citizens resettlement scheme will welcome up to 5,000 vulnerable Afghans in its first year and up to 20,000 over a five-year period. As I have set out previously, the Home Office will make an announcement in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister agree that integrated care boards could require GPs to identify young carers and signpost them to support services? Will she work with ministerial colleagues to require schools to create a young carers lead?
Context
The question addresses the unique challenges faced by young carers, aged as young as seven or eight years old, who look after parents with long-term conditions. Many of these young carers are unidentified and therefore do not receive necessary support.
Gillian Keegan
We will certainly be looking at all those points within guidance. Local authorities have a duty to assess the needs of young carers under the Children and Families Act 2014, and that duty has remained in place throughout the pandemic. Authorities must ensure that young carers are identified and referred to appropriate support if needed, and that the young carer is not taking on excessive or inappropriate care and support responsibilities. We have also announced an additional £1 billion of new recovery premium funding, which schools can use to support young carers' mental health and wellbeing, alongside their academic recovery.
Session: Unpaid Carers
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What steps are being taken to help unpaid carers access support when caring for family members?
Context
The question arises from the need to ensure that unpaid carers, who often face challenges in accessing support, can receive adequate assistance.
Gillian Keegan
We recognise that carers perform a difficult role and often find it challenging to access support. The Care Act 2014 secured important rights for carers, including a responsibility for local authorities to assess and support their specific needs where eligible. We will work with unpaid carers and stakeholders to co-develop further detail in a White Paper for reform later this year.
Session: Unpaid Carers
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More than 9,000 Sheffield households, including 4,500 children, have together lost around £10 million as a result of the Government's decision. There are also deep problems caused by a backlog of work capability assessments. What is being done to clear the backlog and ensure that people with disabilities get the benefits they deserve?
Context
Sheffield households have lost £10 million as a result of the Government's decision to end the universal credit uplift, and there is a backlog in work capability assessments.
David Rutley
I assure the hon. Gentleman that we are working flat out to ensure that people get their entitlement as speedily as possible, which is certainly the case for the vast majority of people. We saw during the pandemic that universal credit was particularly agile in responding to a huge number of people—hundreds of thousands—who needed support.
Session: End of Universal Credit Uplift Household Budgets
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What assessment she has made of the potential effect of ending the universal credit uplift on household budgets?
Context
The question arises from the government's decision to end the £20 universal credit uplift, affecting household budgets across the UK.
David Rutley
The Government have always been clear that the £20 uplift was a temporary measure to support households affected by the economic shock of covid-19. Now that the economy has reopened, the Government are giving nearly 2 million working households an increase, on average, of £1,000 per year, thanks to the reduction in the universal credit taper rate from 63% to 55% and a £500 increase in the work allowance.
Session: End of Universal Credit Uplift Household Budgets
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Does the Minister agree that increasing student debt repayment concerns, alongside high administrative costs in universities, would hinder recovery from pandemic-related learning losses?
Context
Concerns over the impact of potential changes to student debt repayments and criticism of university administration costs.
Michelle Donelan
In response to Augar, we aim to ensure a sustainable student finance system. We focus on quality of higher education provision, skills needs, maintaining reputation and promoting social mobility.
Session: Higher Education Learning Lost to Covid-19
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I am concerned about steps to support (a) universities and (b) students in higher education to make up for lost learning experiences due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Recent ONS reports indicate nearly 40% of first-year students have shown symptoms of depression, unpreparedness for university life, and other challenges.
Context
The question arises from concerns about the impact of remote learning during the pandemic on both university teaching and student mental health.
Michelle Donelan
Throughout the pandemic we have prioritised welfare and wellbeing of students. We are responding to the Augar report shortly. Transition support includes a session with over 200 schools and higher education providers, a guide published for transition assistance, £15 million invested in mental health support, and £3 million provided by the Office for Students for Student Space.
Session: Higher Education Learning Lost to Covid-19
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Two of my constituents, a Danish national and a British citizen with Danish residence, were denied boarding a BA flight by the airline's staff because they did not accept my constituent's proof of Danish residence even though it was consistent with Danish travel advice. Despite a letter that I received from a Foreign Office Minister confirming that my constituents were right, BA has refused to issue a refund and is standing by its misinterpretation of the advice. Does the Minister agree that airlines need clearer guidance on international travel documentation post-Brexit, and will he raise the issue with the airlines, the Foreign Secretary and the Home Secretary to ensure that this does not happen again?
Context
A constituent's international flight was denied due to lack of acceptance of Danish residence proof.
Robert Courts
I am grateful to the hon. Member for raising this matter. It is difficult for me to comment on an individual case, but perhaps we could meet and if he could give me further details I would be very happy to take this up.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given the worsening humanitarian situation and the UK's reduced aid, what measures will be taken to prevent families from dying of starvation and disease? As a penholder for Yemen at the UN, what additional diplomatic pressure is being applied on all parties for inclusive peace talks involving key stakeholders?
Context
Yemen faces the worst famine warning with over £1 billion in UK aid since conflict began. The government has halved its aid despite warnings from the UN.
James Cleverly (The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence)
The UK remains committed to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Over £1 billion in aid has been provided since conflict began. Discussions on food security were held with World Food Programme officials during the G7 meeting. The best action is to bring about a peaceful settlement through diplomatic engagement with Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government, while urging the Houthis to engage constructively.
Session: Yemen
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I am concerned about the ongoing violence and suffering in Yemen after seven years without resolution. With warnings of the worst famine in decades, what steps will the Government take to prevent starvation and disease given that their aid has been reduced? As a penholder for Yemen at the UN, what additional pressure is being put on all parties, including the Houthis, Hadi Government, and Southern Transitional Council, for meaningful peace talks?
Context
Seven years into a violent conflict, the UN warns of an impending famine in Yemen. The government has cut aid to the country significantly.
James Cleverly (The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence)
We remain committed to supporting UN efforts towards a peaceful settlement in Yemen, working with international partners. The Government is concerned about the humanitarian situation and has provided over £1 billion in aid since conflict began. Discussions on food security have been held with World Food Programme officials. Our best course of action is to end the conflict through engagement with Saudi Arabia, the Yemeni government, and a call for constructive dialogue from the Houthis.
Session: Yemen
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After I was told by a local school student of her experience of sexual harassment working in a restaurant, and of the power imbalance that made it difficult to raise that harassment with her employer, I have worked with the Sheffield BID, the business improvement district, the chamber of commerce, the council, the police and others on a campaign to “Know The Line” for zero tolerance of sexual harassment in the hospitality sector. Will the Secretary of State back our campaign, and will she say when the Government will finally respond to the results of the 2019 consultation on sexual harassment in the workplace?
Context
The MP has been working with various local organisations on a campaign called “Know The Line” for zero tolerance of sexual harassment in the hospitality sector, following an incident involving a local school student.
Elizabeth Truss
I would be very happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss his campaign, and I can assure him that we will be bringing forward our response very shortly.
Session: Topical Questions
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My constituent Helen Mort had the appalling experience of finding out that someone unknown to her had taken ordinary images from her social media and superimposed them on violent and extreme pornography. These were not intimate images, but they were used to create deepfakes. When she went to the police, she was told that there was no crime to investigate as the original images were not private. The Law Commission's review, to which the Minister refers, proposes extending the criminalisation of sharing intimate images to include deepfakes. Will the Minister ensure that the Government respond positively and quickly to those proposals so that people like Helen are protected in the future?
Context
A constituent named Helen Mort faced a deepfake situation where ordinary images from her social media were superimposed on violent pornography, highlighting the need for legal protection.
Alex Chalk
I am very grateful to the hon. Gentleman for raising that harrowing case. We recognise that the law needs to keep pace with those who would use technology to perpetrate dreadful abuse. The Law Commission is acting at pace, and we will look carefully with a view to extending the law where appropriate.
Session: Image-based Abuse
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What recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of legislation in protecting victims from image-based abuse?
Context
Public concern over new technology being used to harm victims through image-based abuse has prompted the question.
Alex Chalk
We recognise public concern over new technology used to harm victims and are taking action. New provisions on threatening to share private sexual images come into force today, and we have asked the Law Commission to review the law on image abuse. The commission will publish recommendations in spring next year for careful consideration.
Session: Image-based Abuse
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The International Trade Secretary described her new deal with Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein as a “major boost” for our trade, but the Norwegian Government were more realistic. They said that the deal is “not as comprehensive” as our previous arrangements, that trade would be more bureaucratic and less dynamic and that without a veterinary agreement there will be a number of trade barriers that we did not previously face. Does the Secretary of State recognise that more honest description of the deal, and will she take steps to reduce the barriers to trade that she has created for our exporters and importers?
Context
The Secretary of State described the new trade deal as a major boost but the Norwegian Government said it is not comprehensive, will be more bureaucratic, and without a veterinary agreement there will be barriers to trade.
Ranil Jayawardena
Once again, the Labour party is obsessed by membership of the European Union. It has not moved on from the referendum, when the British people provided a clear signal to us in this place that we should get on with delivering the benefits of Brexit.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State will know that the consultation on Manchester's rail services is considering the removal of the direct link between Sheffield and Manchester airport. Our chamber of commerce is deeply concerned about damage to local business, jobs, and international student recruitment due to lost revenue. Does he recognise these concerns, and will he meet me and other local Members to discuss the issue?
Context
Consultation considering the removal of direct link between Sheffield and Manchester airport.
Grant Shapps
Yes, I recognise those concerns. There is a congestion problem around Manchester that needs resolution. A special meeting will be held after the elections by the Northern Transport Acceleration Council to work with the Manchester recovery taskforce on resolving this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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As some students return to campus this week, those studying in Northern Ireland will each receive £500 support. The Welsh Government have provided hardship funding equivalent to £300 per student. In Scotland, it is £80. For those studying in England, hardship funds equate to just £36, so does the Chancellor not accept the case for equal support across the UK? Students have lost vital income from part-time jobs, paid rent on unused accommodation and faced other costs, so will he meet the all-party parliamentary group for students to discuss our recommendations for hardship support and funding to make up for missed learning opportunities?
Context
Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland have provided substantial student support. England's support is much lower at £36 per student.
Steve Barclay
I am always happy to meet the hon. Gentleman and discuss that matter in more detail. As he will recognise, one of the features of the Budget was the number of UK-wide measures, but at the same time he is quite right to point to the additional £2.4 billion of Barnett consequential funding that was allocated to the devolved Administrations, which has enabled them to apply further support as a result of the fiscal strength that is offered by the UK Treasury. I am of course happy to discuss the specific point with him in more detail.
Session: Topical Questions
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Moon Climbing, a specialist rock climbing supplier in my constituency, tells me how, since January, new barriers have damaged its trade with Europe. In line with the advice of DIT officials, it set up a base in the Netherlands to avoid the barriers and it anticipates that that will be their main base from which they service both the EU and the rest of the world. I heard the Minister and the Secretary of State say earlier that it is nothing to do with them, but companies expect the Department for International Trade to take some responsibility for trade, so what are they doing to prevent more UK businesses moving abroad as a result of the damaging Brexit deal—losing UK jobs, GDP and tax revenue?
Context
A company in the questioner's constituency, Moon Climbing, has set up a base in the Netherlands to avoid trade barriers post-Brexit.
Graham Stuart
We work actively and run webinars with thousands attending, giving people tools to overcome frictions from our departure. I am pleased to say they are declining over time, and we overtook France to become the fifth largest exporter in the world.
Session: Growth for British Businesses
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The assessment conducted by the Treasury in 2018 concluded that there would be significant regional variation in the impact of any Brexit deal. We are certainly seeing that, with fishing fleets grounded, manufacturers hit with extra costs, and the Department for International Trade apparently advising businesses to move parts of their operation to the EU to avoid problems. It is clear that there will be a significant regional impact. Does the Chancellor agree that he needs to redress that regional damage from the Brexit deal? Alternatively, does he agree with the new Business Secretary's comments in “Britannia Unchained” that regional division is an “irrelevant” debate?
Context
The MP highlighted the uneven regional economic impact caused by Brexit, citing issues such as grounded fishing fleets and higher manufacturing costs. He questioned whether the Chancellor agrees that there is a need to address this damage.
Rishi Sunak
No one can doubt the Government's commitment to uniting and levelling up across our United Kingdom, with an unprecedented infrastructure investment programme. Notably in the spending review, we announced something called the levelling-up fund, which will fund the infrastructure of everyday life in communities up and down the country, on top of our once-in-a-generation increase in infrastructure investment in road, rail and broadband that will benefit equally all parts of our United Kingdom.
Session: UK-EU Trade and Co-operation Agreement Regional Effect
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What assessment have the Government made of the potential economic effect of the UK-EU trade and co-operation agreement on each region of the UK?
Context
The MP inquired about the government's assessment of the potential regional economic effects following the UK-EU trade and co-operation agreement.
Rishi Sunak
We have secured an unprecedented free trade agreement with the European Union—the first free trade agreement that the EU has ever reached based on zero tariffs and zero quotas. Across sectors and regions, it is a good deal that will protect jobs and investment.
Session: UK-EU Trade and Co-operation Agreement Regional Effect
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I think we are all waiting to see. Let me ask the Minister about a different part of the negotiations. When I have asked him previously, he has been unable to confirm that we will have access to the real-time information systems that we need to identify foreign criminals at our borders. We both understand why the Government's position has prevented him from giving that confirmation. This morning, speaking on Radio 4 just over an hour ago, the Home Secretary was pressed on the issue and said: “All the type of channels that we have used in the past we will continue to use going forward.” Was she right? Anything less than an unequivocal endorsement will indicate that she was not.
Context
Concern about real-time information systems for identifying foreign criminals at borders.
Michael Gove
The Home Secretary is always right.
Session: UK-EU Negotiations
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Partner and Spousal Visas: Minimum Income
23 April 2024
Responding: Tom Pursglove
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the Government's approach to migration policy, particularly regarding partner and spousal visas. He highlights that the minimum income threshold changes announced in December have significant consequences for families, with many unable to afford the £29,000 threshold required for a visa extension. The impact assessment has not been published, raising questions about transparency. Additionally, the MP notes that certain professions such as nurses and teachers fall below these thresholds, disproportionately affecting young people, women, minorities, and those in lower-income regions like Yorkshire and the Humber."]
Specific Asks
['The MP asks the Government to review their policy on spousal migration rules and consider fairer approaches. He suggests suspending planned increases for this year and 2025 until a comprehensive review is conducted.']
Zero-emission Buses and Air Quality in Sheffield
05 December 2023
Responding: Anthony Browne
Main Concerns
['Poor air quality contributes to the early deaths of up to 43,000 people every year in the UK. Nitrogen dioxide levels in Sheffield were above legal limits, contributing to around 250 to 500 deaths annually. Older polluting vehicles and buses are major sources of problems, with an average bus fleet age of about 12 years. Retrofitting devices have shown considerable variability, with many not performing at the expected Euro 6 standard.']
Specific Asks
['The Government needs to commit to clean air solutions fast. The Minister should welcome the bid from Sheffield City Council for ZEBRA 2 and consider further flexibility in the use of funding from the Clean Air Fund, including drawdown of stretch funding and additional funding for electric vehicle roll-out.']
Further and Higher Education Students: Cost of Living
19 September 2023
Responding: Robert Halfon
Main Concerns
['The cost of living crisis has exacerbated existing issues in the student support system, leaving many students with insufficient funds to cover basic needs. The inquiry found that maintenance loans fell short by £439 per month in 2021-22 and £582 last year, with rent being a significant issue for many. Students are increasingly working more hours to meet costs, impacting academic performance and extracurricular activities. There is also a rise in financial hardship among disadvantaged groups such as disabled students, BAME students, care leavers, estranged students, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should provide further hardship funding to universities, increase maintenance loans to restore their real value, consider reintroducing maintenance grants, and raise the household income threshold for maximum student loan. Additionally, address specific issues in FE by increasing bursaries, reviewing eligibility criteria for bursary funds, considering free school meal extension, introducing subsidised travel, and raising apprenticeship minimum wage.']
Research and Development Funding and Horizon Europe
18 April 2023
Responding: Paul Scully
Main Concerns
["Mr. Blomfield expressed concern about the potential loss of UK association with Horizon Europe, citing examples such as the University of Sheffield's advanced manufacturing research centre, which received vital European funding for its partnership with Boeing and Rolls-Royce. He also highlighted the gene therapy innovation and manufacturing centre at the same university, funded by EU money and leveraging private investment to develop treatments for patients. Mr. Blomfield mentioned that Professor Mimoun Azzouz's project would lose out on ERC synergy grants if the UK is reduced to third-country participation in Horizon Europe."]
Specific Asks
["Mr. Blomfield urged the Government to take advantage of the opportunity to associate with Horizon Europe, seeking reassurance from the Minister regarding the commitment to secure 'the right terms' for association. He also questioned the funding details and certainty of the Pioneer programme as a potential alternative to Horizon Europe."]
Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill 2025-05-12
12 May 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Minister for Border Security and Asylum introduced the new clause which amends the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 to extend employment prohibitions to other working arrangements such...
Fiscal Rules
28 October 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Coronavirus Act 2020 - Schedule 5 - Application of Chapter 1 of Part 1 to existing tenancies: transitional provision
24 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Jacob Young, the Member for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, moved that the clause be read a Second time. The specific amendment proposed in this speech does not provide detailed arguments but can be...
Ways and Means
11 March 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Since 2010, the economy under Conservative Government has seen significant growth despite challenging times. The Chancellor's Budget supports sectors such as the creative industries, which have grown ...
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
Net Migration Figures
28 November 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
The Private Rented Sector Bill - General discussion on the Second Reading of the Bill
23 October 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Michael Gove moved that the Private Rented Sector Bill be read a second time. He thanked his colleague Eddie Hughes for laying groundwork t...
Israel (Promotion and Implementation of Divestment, Boycotts and Sanctions) Bill - First clause of the Bill
03 July 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities moved that the bill be read a Second time. He paid tribute to Lord Kerslake who passed away recently. The Bill's purpose is to honour a...
NHS Long-term Workforce Plan
03 July 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
3
PMQs Asked
55
Ministerial Questions Asked
102
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-18% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+310% above average
This MP:
55
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1999% above average
This MP:
102
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 Paul Blomfield's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.