Paul Holmes
MP for Hamble Valley
Con
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Given that the Deputy Prime Minister clearly thinks the Prime Minister has always been match fit, how does he feel now that his own MPs have given the boss the red card and brought on a left winger to get them out of the relegation zone?
Context
The Prime Minister's recent loss of support among MPs has led to significant political instability. A 'red card' metaphor suggests a leader is being replaced.
David Lammy
That is not bad for someone who represents a premier league side, but two years since the election, the hon. Member still needs to engage with the facts about the Tories' failed period in government. His colleagues now accept that. The former Treasury Minister, the former Communities Secretary, the former Health Minister and the former Immigration Minister—and that is just the right hon. Member for Newark—wrecked the country and helped wreck the Tory party, and now wants to do it all over again with Reform.
Assessment
The specific question about leadership changes was not addressed; instead, a critique of former government members was given.
Criticizing Opposition
Session: PMQs 2026-07-08
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A small family business in my constituency was recently burgled by a prolific offender serving an eight-month suspended sentence. The man was caught, arrested, charged and appeared in court, where he was given another eight-month suspended sentence and was released. The business was offered £200 in compensation. Does the Deputy Prime Minister think that that is justice served, or is this Government now soft on crime and soft on the causes of crime?
Context
The question discusses a case where a repeat offender was given a suspended sentence after burglarizing a small family business.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Angela Rayner)
First of all, I am sorry to hear about that. Hard-working businesspeople who spend a lot of their time building up a business should expect the full force of the law to protect their property and their interests. Also, while I have the opportunity, can I congratulate the hon. Member on running Hamble Valley’s very first pub competition this year? I hope that I will get an invite. He is absolutely right that we have to have increased police numbers and ensure that they are responsive to people’s concerns. We are doing that; his Government let people down.
Session: PMQs
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I want to pay tribute to the efforts of a group in my constituency who are leading the way on reducing single-use plastics. They have successfully lobbied for more recyclable plastic packaging at a major retail park, which has helped several local food producers and retailers. Would you like to join me and congratulate them?
Context
A local campaign aims to reduce environmental impact through better recycling practices and support for small businesses.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
[Note: The PM's response is missing in the provided transcript.]
Session: PMQs
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Millions of pounds were awarded to remote train stations like Hedge End and Swanwick under the Access for All scheme, but this was scrapped in the first two weeks by the new Government. Will the Prime Minister give my constituents and stations across the country their money back?
Context
Funding was awarded to remote train stations under the Access for All scheme by the previous government but scrapped in the first two weeks of the current government. This has affected stations such as Hedge End and Swanwick.
Keir Starmer
The previous government made many promises but did not set aside the necessary funds, leaving a £22 billion black hole. Balancing the books and stabilising the economy is prioritised before addressing specific issues like returning money to remote train stations.
Assessment
Did not address whether funding will be returned but discussed general economic challenges instead.
Discussed Previous Government'S Promises And Financial Mismanagement
Session: PMQs
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The Lib Dem-run council in Eastleigh has received an auditor report warning about possible fraud and ignoring whistleblowers. Does the PM agree that Lib Dem leaders should show remorse or step aside?
Context
Holmes criticizes the Eastleigh council's handling of fraud reports and whistleblowers, implying a lack of accountability.
Rishi Sunak
[Interruption.] My—[Interruption.]
Assessment
The answer avoids the specific issue of accountability and does not address Holmes' question.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister ask the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to investigate Eastleigh Borough Council's financial decisions? May I meet with the relevant minister?
Context
Eastleigh Borough Council has a £670 million debt, recently refinanced a failed housing project for £148 million without building houses.
Rishi Sunak
We have measures in place to prevent excessive local authority borrowing risks. My hon. Friend's concerns will be raised with the relevant Minister.
Assessment
Investigation of Eastleigh Borough Council's financial practices
Measures To Prevent Excessive Borrowing
Session: PMQs
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Hospices across the UK provide not only quality, but compassionate care to people at the end of their lives, including Mountbatten hospice in my constituency, which looked after my office manager Sue Hall when she passed away in March. That is why I and her son-in-law, Miles Rogers, will be skydiving to raise money on Saturday. We have raised £6,000 so far. The Prime Minister should feel free to donate to the campaign, but will he send his best wishes to all hospice workers across the United Kingdom?
Context
Hospices provide quality care to people at the end of their lives. The Mountbatten Hospice in the questioner's constituency cared for his office manager, Sue Hall, who passed away in March. A fundraising skydiving event is planned.
Rishi Sunak
I join my hon. Friend in wishing Miles good luck this weekend as he raises money, and in paying tribute to all our incredible hospice volunteers and workers across the country. They do a fantastic job in all our constituencies at a very difficult time in families' lives, and we all owe them an enormous amount of thanks.
Assessment
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Session: PMQs
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My right hon. Friend and the Chancellor have rightly pointed out that levelling up is for the whole of the United Kingdom. As a Southampton man, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister will know that, since the 1970s, Eastleigh has been promised a much-needed Chickenhall Lane bypass. Will he agree to meet me and Hampshire County Council to finally get the project moving?
Context
Eastleigh has been promised a Chickenhall Lane bypass since the 1970s, but the project remains stalled. The questioner seeks action to advance this long-awaited infrastructure.
Rishi Sunak
It is right that we spread opportunity across the country, including in Eastleigh and the south. I understand that it is for Hampshire County Council to bring forward the proposal for the bypass, which I hope it will do at the next funding opportunity, and I will ensure that my hon. Friend and the council have a meeting with a Transport Minister as soon as possible.
Assessment
The answer did not confirm a direct commitment to meet for the Chickenhall Lane bypass project but stated it is for Hampshire County Council to bring forward the proposal.
Session: PMQs
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By 2025, Liberal Democrat Eastleigh Borough Council will be in £650 million debt, or £6,300 for each resident. Does the Prime Minister think it acceptable for this council to become a speculative property developer? What advice would he give to constituents wanting to stop the 'casino council'?
Context
By 2025, Eastleigh Borough Council will have a £650 million debt, equivalent to £6,300 per resident. The council plans to become a speculative property developer.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend is right about Eastleigh Borough Council and its debts, but I cannot see the leader of the Liberal Democrats here. He is not delivering value for money to his constituents.
Assessment
Did not address acceptability or advice on speculative property development
Did Not Answer Question
Attacked Political Party
Session: PMQs
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Residents in the village of Hamble are facing planning permission for a quarry with 144 daily lorries. Will my right hon. Friend agree to meet me to discuss how we can tighten regulations on where quarries can be built, considering health implications and local communities?
Context
A quarry is proposed for Hamble, Eastleigh, with 144 lorries per day in a congested area.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend. He is a great champion for Eastleigh. The planning framework is robust and should ensure that quarries do not have an adverse impact on the environment or on health. I will ensure that he gets a meeting with the relevant Minister to discuss his concerns further.
Session: PMQs
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Given that pedigree, its excellent transport links and the need to level up the south, does he agree that Eastleigh would make the perfect home for the new headquarters of Great British Railways?
Context
Eastleigh has a proud railway heritage and would make an ideal location for the new GBR headquarters.
Boris Johnson
My hon. Friend is a great champion for Eastleigh. As I told the House earlier, further details of the competition to identify the new Great British Railways headquarters will be announced in the coming weeks.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not provide a direct answer regarding agreement with Eastleigh being ideal; instead he referred to upcoming details.
Session: PMQs
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Independent lifeboat stations such as the Hamble lifeboat in my constituency respond to over 100 incidents a year in the Solent. The pandemic has increased the operating costs of independent lifeboat stations while also restricting their ability to raise money. Will the Prime Minister look to see what more the Government can do to support independent lifeboat stations such as the Hamble lifeboat as they keep a watchful eye on all of us?
Context
Independent lifeboat stations such as Hamble Lifeboat respond to over 100 incidents a year in the Solent.
Boris Johnson
I thank my hon. Friend for raising the excellent work of Hamble lifeboat. In April last year, my right hon Friend the Chancellor put forward another £750 million in support of charities such as that one.
Assessment
Specific commitment to look at ways to support was not given
Mentioning Past Support
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that Conservative Governments invest in infrastructure, as evidenced by the planned resurfacing of the M27?
Context
The MP highlighted the resurfacing of a concrete section of the M27 starting this summer.
Boris Johnson
Conservative Governments are putting £640 billion into an infrastructure revolution and Jerry Hall is doing well to resurface the road.
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree with me that calls for a raid on homes, pensions and savings would hammer hard-working families and undermine Britain's economic recovery?
Context
Concerns are raised about the negative impacts of wealth taxes proposed by Labour on hard-working families.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Absolutely right. I have been amazed to hear Labour proposing to bring forward a wealth tax—a tax on homes. New leader, same old Labour policies—exactly what this country does not need.
Session: PMQs
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The local Integrated Care Board (ICB) has stopped offering services through all providers, scrapped contracts with Specsavers, meaning only GPs can diagnose cataract issues. Will the Minister review this issue and intervene to ensure a wider range of service providers?
Context
Waiting times for cataract surgeries in the constituency are rising due to changes by the local ICB and its AI system, including discontinuing contracts with Specsavers.
Stephen Kinnock
The hon. Gentleman is correct that effective cooperation between high street optometrists and secondary care is vital. I am pleased to announce a £20 million investment in e-referrals and the development of a single point of access for digital interface improvements.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can I ask that the meeting is arranged as soon as possible?
Context
Domo Tactical Communications, a company based in Hamble Valley, manufactures drones and communications equipment. The company is having difficulties engaging with the Ministry of Defence on sovereign capability issues.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
The hon. Gentleman points to a firm in his constituency, and it is true that for too long too many small firms have felt locked out of MOD contracts. It is also true that the last Government, his Government, missed their own targets for SME defence support. Our new office for small business growth, which opened its doors for the first time last week, will help turn that around. At the risk of overburdening my hon. Friend the Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, I am sure that he would be willing to meet the hon. Gentleman.
Session: Support for Defence SMEs
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With a new year often come new year’s resolutions. Will the Secretary of State make a new year’s resolution to accept the truth that the Government will not meet their 1.5 million housing target, which he set out? Will he confirm that he still thinks his job is on the line if he does not achieve that? Huge focus has been placed on rural areas with no infrastructure, but cities—often Labour cities—have been left off the hook, so will he commit to changing the formula to make it fairer and, more importantly, more deliverable?
Context
The MP is skeptical of the Government's ability to meet their housing target of 1.5 million new homes, particularly in rural areas.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Steve Reed)
If the hon. Gentleman’s party had not scrapped house building targets around the country, we might see more of the kinds of homes that we need in every single part of the country—urban, suburban and rural. As for our targets, the judgment of the independent Office for Budget Responsibility, which was set up by the previous Conservative Government, is that this Government will oversee the biggest increase in house building for 40 years. That will put the key to their own home into the hands of people who were denied it under the Conservatives.
Session: New Homes
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Parents and pupils deserve a school system that builds on success, not one that holds it back. The coalition Government opened 24 free schools in 500 days, yet this Government have spent over 400 days reviewing 44 already-approved schools. Free schools outperform non-selective state schools at every key stage, so why are this Government blocking more children from accessing a good education?
Context
The coalition government had opened 24 free schools in just over a year, while the current government has spent more than 400 days reviewing 44 already-approved schools. Free schools are outperforming non-selective state schools at every key stage.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
There is a very simple answer to that question: the last Government left us with crumbling school buildings and a limited capital budget to allocate across the entire school estate. We have to balance rebuilding crumbling school buildings—which, as the National Audit Office and others have highlighted, were in a deteriorated state—with the need to prioritise extra school places in parts of the country that need them.
Session: Free School Applications
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Here we go again: it is the Secretary of State’s “intention”. I remind him that he actually leads his Department and can set the legislation going forward. He needs to accept that the uncertainty created by this Government in relation to local government reorganisation, on sizes and funding, has meant that leaders have scrambled to meet the ever-changing expectations, with no leadership from this Government. Will the Secretary of State put his money where his mouth is and support the Opposition’s amendment to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill tomorrow that would ensure that local elections go ahead and that local leaders have the certainty they need?
Context
The Secretary of State referred to consultations and engagement but did not provide a clear commitment.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Steve Reed)
Perhaps to the Conservatives the word “consultation” means “diktat issued from the centre”, but to me it means listening carefully to the views of those who will be affected. My intention, and my preference, remains for the elections to go ahead on schedule.
Session: East Sussex County Council Elections
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With local government reform not being in the Labour party manifesto and with the Prime Minister last week refusing to rule out further cancellations of local elections, will the Secretary of State now rule out—not “intention” but rule out—cancelling the next local elections, yes or no?
Context
The Labour party manifesto did not include local government reform. The Prime Minister refused to rule out further cancellations of local elections last week.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Steve Reed)
I am sure the hon. Member will be aware that consultations and engagement are going on with local authorities, but the Government’s intention is that all the elections scheduled for next May will go ahead next May.
Session: East Sussex County Council Elections
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What steps he is taking to reduce the time taken to procure drones for the armed forces. I refer the House to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests. The Minister may be aware of Domo Tactical Communications, a drone manufacturer in my constituency that I have raised in written questions before. Will he uphold the visit that was due to take place by his predecessor before the reshuffle? What proportion of drones purchased for UK armed forces are procured from UK-based drone manufacturers, and what can be done to increase that proportion?
Context
The question focuses on the proportion of drones purchased by the UK armed forces from UK-based drone manufacturers and the planned visit to a local manufacturer's factory.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Al Carns)
I have been reassured that the Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry will visit the hon. Gentleman’s constituency to have a look at the factory. From my perspective, we have increased our production of drones for Ukraine—up to 100,000 this year alone—and we are increasing the procurement of drones into the British military by thousands.
Session: Drone Procurement
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The Chancellor is right to focus on increasing economic growth, so will she please explain why my office is still waiting for a response on behalf of a small business to a letter that I sent on 12 December, asking her to look into the impacts of her national insurance rise on small businesses? We asked for an update on 11 February, I raised a point of order on 10 March, and I still have not had a response. Will she please get a response to me as soon as possible?
Context
The question refers to a previous letter sent by the MP on December 12th regarding the impact of national insurance rise on small businesses. An update was requested on February 11th and a point of order raised on March 10th, but no response had been received until this point.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
I will follow up on that issue. The smallest businesses—those that employ the equivalent of four people on the national living wage—will be paying no national insurance at all from this April. Up to 1 million of the smallest businesses will be paying less or the same national insurance as they were paying previously.
Session: Economic Growth
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Quite rightly, the Government said in their manifesto that they wanted to reduce homelessness and rough sleeping, but instead there has been a 20% increase in rough sleeping—at its highest in London but rapidly climbing in other parts of England, such as by 67% in Derbyshire. Homeless Link states that the Budget removed £50 million to £60 million from the sector due to national insurance increases and has called for a reset on homelessness funding. Where is the Minister’s long-term plan for reducing homelessness? Will she commit to seeing a fall in homelessness in the next year?
Context
The MP notes that rough sleeping has increased by 20% and mentions a funding cut from the sector due to national insurance increases.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Rushanara Ali)
The shadow Minister should be aware of the record of his Government—a record increase in rough sleeping. Since 2010 it went up by 164%. The previous Labour Government cut rough sleeping by two thirds. We have put in an additional £233 million, taking the total to £1 billion. We have provided additional funding of £60 million to tackle winter pressures. The hon. Gentleman should look at the record of his Government and face up to the fact that over 14 years the Conservative party presided over record increases. We are determined to tackle that, which is what we are doing through our cross-cutting work across Government.
Session: Homelessness and Rough Sleeping
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With many Labour Members claiming that they care about young people being employed, has the Minister’s Department made assessments about the employment impact of the decision to introduce minimum guaranteed hours for students and young people who rely on the flexibility of being able to pick and choose their work hours, particularly those working in the hospitality sector which is decimated by this Government?
Context
MP concerns about the potential negative impacts of the Employment Rights Bill, particularly regarding minimum guaranteed hours for students and young people working in sectors like hospitality. The MP references Labour Members' claims about caring for youth employment.
The Minister for Employment (Alison McGovern)
I think the hon. Gentleman is referring to the ban on exploitative zero-hours contracts, but if somebody wants a flexible hours contract, then that is a good thing, and nothing in the changes prevents that. In fact, since I have been at the DWP, I have found that employers have not had sufficient contact from jobcentres and only one in six employers think about using them. When getting young people a proper range of choices and jobs through the jobcentre, not nearly enough work has been done to serve employers better.
Session: Employment Rights Bill Employment Rates
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Like the hon. Member for Luton North (Sarah Owen), I have stations in my constituency—in Hedge End and Swanwick—that were allocated money by the previous Government for accessibility lifts. Unlike her rail company, mine did accept that that money was allocated. Within the first week of this Government taking over, that was scrapped, and the Rail Minister wrote to me without any clear plan for when this Government will make an announcement on what will happen with the Access for All scheme. The Minister has just said that it will happen shortly. Can he be more clear for my constituents, who have been waiting for a very long time, so that disabled people and people with wheelchairs and pushchairs in my constituency can make the journeys they need to make? When will this Government make an announcement on Access for All?
Context
Hedge End and Swanwick stations in the hon. Member's constituency were allocated money by the previous Government for accessibility lifts but within the first week of this government taking over, that was scrapped without a clear plan from the Rail Minister on what will happen with the Access for All scheme.
Simon Lightwood
I can assure the hon. Member that as soon as I am in a position to do so, I will give him more information on the Access for All programme.
Session: Public Transport Accessibility
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We can see that after just five months, the Government's target of 1.5 million new homes lies in tatters. The National Housing Federation says that the Government will miss their target by 475,000 without more grant—last week the Housing Minister said the same—and now Labour-run South Tyneside council says that the plans are “wholly unrealistic”, with other Labour councils agreeing. Is it not time for the Government to admit defeat, come back with a deliverable plan and provide the sector with the certainty that it needs to deliver more social homes across the country?
Context
The National Housing Federation and Labour-run South Tyneside council, among others, have stated that the Government's target of 1.5 million new homes is unrealistic.
Angela Rayner
The hon. Member has forgotten that his Government failed to meet their housing targets every single time. The Government are committed to building 1.5 million homes over this Parliament. Under the Tories, house building plummeted as they bowed to pressure from their Back Benchers to scrap local housing targets. We are bringing back mandatory housing targets. The Chancellor has put more money into the affordable homes programme, and we will build those homes. The hon. Member does not know my history and how I work.
Session: Social Housing Supply
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Sadly, homelessness is projected to rise by 27% this year. The Government's broken promise on national insurance rises has wreaked havoc across the charitable sector, with 110 national homelessness charities warning the Chancellor that £50 million to £60 million will be lost in the sector and Homeless Link calling the increase 'the final nail in the coffin' for the sector. Will the Minister listen to that warning, and what will she be doing to convey these concerns to the Chancellor and change this disastrous policy?
Context
Homelessness is projected to rise by 27% this year. National insurance increases are causing financial losses for homeless charities, with 110 charities warning about a £50 million to £60 million loss and Homeless Link describing the increase as 'the final nail in the coffin'.
Rushanara Ali
I welcome the shadow Minister to his position. May I remind him of the record of his party in government? In those 14 years, 123,000 households, including 150,000 children, were living in temporary accommodation—not to mention the scandal of rough sleeping and the deaths caused by that Government's neglect. We are investing to tackle those issues and the mess that the hon Gentleman's party left behind. We have already announced £233 million in the Budget; Conservative Members need to decide whether to back us on the investment we are making to clean up the mess that he and they have left behind.
Session: Homelessness Reduction
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Mountbatten hospice, which serves my constituency and Hampshire more widely, receives 70% of its income through charitable donations. It has told me and my hon. Friend the Member for Isle of Wight East (Joe Robertson) that its viability is under risk because of the national insurance contributions policy that this Government have brought forward. Can the Secretary of State outline what pressure she will put on the Treasury to make sure that the policy changes? The charitable sector is in real danger because of this Government's decisions.
Context
Mountbatten hospice, which receives a significant portion of its income from charitable donations, faces financial risks due to the national insurance contributions policy.
Lisa Nandy
My right hon. Friend the Health Secretary and I have already had a discussion about the situation facing hospices. He is acutely aware of it, and is working with the hospice movement in order to provide the best possible support.
Session: Topical Questions
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With the promised £300 cut in energy bills not materialising, the winter fuel payment scrapped for pensioners, and now the bus cap lifted for working people—whatever definition of that term the Chancellor is using today—can she honestly say that living standards will improve for everybody under this Government?
Context
The MP highlighted the failure to deliver a promised £300 cut in energy bills, the scrapping of winter fuel payments for pensioners, and the lifting of the bus price cap for working people. These actions have raised concerns about improving living standards under the current government.
Rachel Reeves
On the bus price cap specifically, the hon. Member will know that the previous Government put no money in to extend that cap. We have put money in to ensure that the bus price cap remains at an affordable level for people, unlike the previous Government, who just had short-term gimmicks.
Session: Living Standards
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The MP inquires about the handling and pausing of growth deals such as the Mid South West region one. He asks for an apology to those affected and urges direct talks with businesses to reactivate these deals.
Context
The Mid South West region growth deal, paused by the Government, now lies inactive with reports of private sector withdrawal.
Fleur Anderson
We are in constant talks about such deals with deal providers. The Secretary of State and I underline their importance to Treasury colleagues. The Mid South West and Causeway Coast and Glens growth deals are being considered as part of the spending review.
Session: Promoting Business and Growth
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Given the Home Secretary's claim that she would smash the gangs, with £540 million to upgrade the Manston centre, asylum hotels reopening rapidly and 14,000 small boat crossings since she took office, is that the plan that she had for her new border commander?
Context
14,000 small boat crossings since Home Secretary took office.
Yvette Cooper
Inherited a total failure from previous Government with record high number of crossings in first six months. Previous contract lacked break clauses while ours includes them.
Session: Small Boat Crossings
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The Minister for Local Government may be aware that Eastleigh borough council is subject to a best value notice, due to its unsustainable £700 million of debt. More audits have been undertaken that show that more borrowing is taking place, so will he meet me to discuss this risk to my constituents and their taxpayers' money?
Context
Eastleigh borough council, controlled by the Liberal Democrats, faces a best value notice due to £700 million in unsustainable debt. Further audits reveal ongoing borrowing.
Jim McMahon
I am very happy to have a meeting, probably next week, on that issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can he reassure the House that he is working flat out on making sure that the roughly £2 billion of funds generated from the sale of Chelsea football club gets distributed urgently and reaches those in desperate need due to Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine? Does he agree that Chelsea FC is effectively now one of the largest charitable organisations in the country?
Context
The question arises from the sale of Chelsea football club and the need to distribute funds generated for humanitarian assistance.
David Lammy
This is an ongoing and complex issue. We endeavour to do the best that we can, at pace, and are unpicking much that happened under the previous Government.
Session: Support for Ukraine
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On Monday, the Government decided not to proceed with an export development guarantee or emergency loans to save Harland and Wolff despite its unique role and outstanding defence contract. Will the Secretary of State use his position to continue previous Government's support and make it clear to the Treasury that people in Northern Ireland expect intervention?
Context
The question addresses the export development guarantee that was not proceeded with to save Harland and Wolff, a company with an outstanding defence contract. The speaker asks for continued support.
Hilary Benn
Harland and Wolff is now talking to its main supporters, Riverstone, about potential additional financial support. We are committed to shipbuilding across the United Kingdom, including in Northern Ireland.
Session: Barnett Formula
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Will he outline to the House the progress the Government have made in this regard, which was desperately needed?
Context
The questioner seeks details on the progress made by the government in reducing business rates for small businesses.
Gareth Davies
My hon. Friend is right. Business rate relief is a great way to support small businesses in Eastleigh and across the country. Our small business rate relief means that one third of all properties in England already pay no business rates at all. We have frozen the small business multiplier, protecting more than 1 million properties from a multiplier increase. As I was just saying, we are supporting high streets with our retail, hospitality and leisure relief.
Session: Support for Small Businesses
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Can the Minister give some more detail on how the Department intends to take forward the recommendation from the Veteran Welfare Service review, and can he outline any timescales to which he intends to work on that review?
Context
The MP seeks details on how the Department plans to implement recommendations from a recent veteran welfare service review.
Andrew Murrison
Our response to the independent review of welfare services for veterans accepts the principle and intended outcome of all the recommendations, and we will shortly publish our response to the recommendations of the armed forces compensation scheme quinquennial review. The reviews will inform a programme of improvements in the way we deliver the compensation scheme and how we provide welfare support to ensure a consistently high level of service.
Session: Veterans
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Merry Christmas to you and yours, Mr Speaker. The autumn statement was a huge success for small businesses across the country, with the Federation of Small Businesses describing it as “a game changer”. Will my hon. Friend outline to the House how the autumn statement package will benefit those small businesses in my constituency on which my towns and villages rely?
Context
The autumn statement has been widely praised by the Federation of Small Businesses as a significant positive step.
Nigel Huddleston
I thank my hon. Friend for his continuing support for small businesses in his constituency. Measures in the autumn statement to help them include extending the retail, hospitality and leisure relief for another year, which will support around 230,000 properties in England. That tax cut is worth nearly £2.4 billion. Meanwhile, by freezing the small business multiplier for a fourth consecutive year, we will be protecting more than a million properties from a multiplier increase. Other announcements that could benefit his constituents include the Help to Grow, management and Made Smarter programmes and moves to tackle late payments.
Session: Small Businesses Fiscal Support
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Merry Christmas to you and yours, Mr Speaker. The autumn statement was a huge success for small businesses across the country, with the Federation of Small Businesses describing it as “a game changer”. Will my hon. Friend outline to the House how the autumn statement package will benefit those small businesses in my constituency on which my towns and villages rely?
Context
The autumn statement has been widely praised by the Federation of Small Businesses as a significant positive step.
Nigel Huddleston
I thank my hon. Friend for his continuing support for small businesses in his constituency. Measures in the autumn statement to help them include extending the retail, hospitality and leisure relief for another year, which will support around 230,000 properties in England. That tax cut is worth nearly £2.4 billion. Meanwhile, by freezing the small business multiplier for a fourth consecutive year, we will be protecting more than a million properties from a multiplier increase. Other announcements that could benefit his constituents include the Help to Grow, management and Made Smarter programmes and moves to tackle late payments.
Session: Small Businesses Fiscal Support
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In the absence of an Executive, will my hon. Friend assure me that the Government will continue to intervene where necessary for the people of Northern Ireland?
Context
The question is prompted by the Government's provision of financial support in response to cost-of-living pressures. The MP seeks assurance that this will continue without an active Executive.
Steven Baker
We will continue to work for the people of Northern Ireland, respecting the devolution settlement. For example, in recognition of the cost of living pressures faced by workers across the UK, the Government increased the national minimum wage rate by 9.7%, to £10.42 per hour for workers aged 23 and over, at the spring Budget.
Session: Cost of Living
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Can the Minister reassure me that despite what some have said, the Bill is not about stopping parents from having meaningful conversations with their children who may be questioning their sexuality?
Context
There are concerns that the proposed ban on conversion practices might limit meaningful conversations between parents and children questioning their sexuality.
Stuart Andrew
My hon. Friend raises an important point. That is why we need to consider the evidence carefully; those conversations that parents have with their children are really important.
Session: Conversion Practices Legislative Ban
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Will my hon. Friend condemn the council's move and assure me that no Homes England money will be used to backfill the gap?
Context
The MP highlights the removal of affordable housing obligations by Eastleigh Borough Council.
Rachel Maclean
I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the reckless behaviour of his Liberal Democrat-run council. I completely agree that it is a disgraceful state of affairs. The council should be using that funding secured to deliver the affordable housing that residents need and deserve. As suggested, Homes England will definitely not be contributing to backfilling that need.
Session: House Building
View All Questions -->
What steps are being taken by the Department to support house building?
Context
The MP is concerned about steps taken to support house building.
Rachel Maclean
House building is a priority for this Government. We have announced £10 billion-worth of investment in the housing supply since the start of this Parliament, and ultimately, our interventions are due to unlock over 1 million new homes. We are also investing £11.5 billion in the latest affordable homes programme, to provide tens of thousands of new homes across the country.
Session: House Building
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Does the Lord Chancellor agree that changes in the legal aid means test mean that disputed assets such as a family home are not taken into account when deciding whether to grant legal aid, helping victims of domestic abuse?
Context
The MP welcomes a new policy allowing domestic abuse victims who cannot access joint assets to not have those assets counted towards their eligibility for legal aid. He asks if the Lord Chancellor agrees that this will help secure access to justice.
Alex Chalk
I fully agree. Disputed assets such as a family home are illiquid and inaccessible when controlled by an abuser, making them non-factors in legal aid eligibility decisions. This change ensures victims can access essential legal support and court protection.
Session: Legal Aid Means Test Review Domestic Abuse Victims
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the potential impact of the legal aid means test review on access to legal aid for victims of domestic abuse? The changes mean that more than 2 million people in England and Wales will be eligible for civil legal aid each year, and domestic abuse victims receiving universal credit are not means-tested when applying for protective orders.
Context
The MP is concerned about the legal aid means test review and its potential impact on access to legal aid for domestic abuse victims. He references a policy change that ensures more people, including domestic abuse victims receiving universal credit, will be eligible for civil legal aid.
Alex Chalk
We aim to ensure that domestic abuse victims secure access to justice and protection under the law. Changes to the legal aid means test mean that more than 2 million people in England and Wales will be eligible for civil legal aid each year, and domestic abuse victims receiving universal credit are not means-tested when applying for protective orders.
Session: Legal Aid Means Test Review Domestic Abuse Victims
View All Questions -->
It was good to see the Prime Minister visit Washington last week to continue building our relationship with the United States. Will the Minister outline how we will work with the United States to ensure that the AI summit that was agreed to can be a success under UK leadership?
Context
The UK and the US have agreed to take a coordinated approach towards emerging technologies, including AI.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
The Prime Minister and President Biden agreed that the UK and US would take a co-ordinated approach to the opportunities and challenges of the emerging tech that we see around us, such as AI. The UK welcomes early support from the US on the global summit on AI safety, which we will lead. We will work very closely with the US, and of course other international partners, to ensure that we deliver an important step forward on this issue.
Session: AI and Diplomacy
View All Questions -->
What export potential does this new capability have?
Context
There is an important collaboration between the UK and Germany on developing advanced tank ammunition that supports compatibility within NATO.
James Cartlidge
Enhanced kinetic energy munitions are a key part of the Challenger 3 and Leopard 2 main battle tanks programmes, delivering battle-winning capabilities to UK and German armed forces. Their advanced performance is expected to be recognised as world-leading and will be promoted for export potential to NATO and other allies.
Session: Defence Exports to Global Allies
View All Questions -->
How does Finland's recent NATO accession unite Europe against Russian aggression? What lessons can be drawn for other nations?
Context
Finland has recently joined NATO, prompting questions about its impact on unity against Russian aggression.
Leo Docherty
Our diplomatic efforts are focused on Sweden's accession to NATO, highlighting Finnish military courage and diplomatic support.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Government's commitment is welcome, but residents are still waiting for their payments. Will the Minister ensure officials speak to Eastleigh Borough Council today and commit to writing an update on what went wrong?
Context
Residents in Eastleigh Borough are facing delays in receiving Government support for park homes due to issues with council access to systems.
Amanda Solloway
All councils able to participate in the scheme have received funding, 99% are onboarded, and 95% are processing claims. However, we need to understand the issue with Eastleigh Borough Council and I will update my hon. Friend as soon as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
My local college, Eastleigh College, works alongside 700 regional employers to deliver high-quality apprenticeships all the way to degree level. Last year nearly a third of apprenticeship starts were at the higher level. What steps are the Government taking to broaden the routes into technical education and increase the number of higher-level apprenticeship starts?
Context
Eastleigh College works with regional employers to deliver high-quality apprenticeships up to degree level. The question seeks information on government initiatives to increase the number of higher-level apprenticeship starts.
Robert Halfon
My hon. Friend will be pleased to know that there have been more than 10,800 apprenticeship starts in his constituency since 2010. We are investing £2.7 billion in apprenticeships by 2025. We are spending £8 million of that on promoting degree-level apprenticeships. We have a big recruitment campaign, Fire It Up, to encourage more apprentices. We are transforming careers advice on apprenticeships in schools and colleges, we pay non-levy-payer small businesses the vast majority of their training costs when they hire apprentices.
Session: Apprenticeships
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to help improve the quality of apprenticeships. Ofsted will inspect every apprenticeship provider by 2025. All providers have been asked to re-enrol on the register of apprenticeship training providers. We are intervening to help apprentices and employers as well.
Context
The question addresses the need for better quality in apprenticeships, with a focus on regulatory oversight and provider accountability.
Robert Halfon
We are improving the quality of apprenticeships, and Ofsted will be inspecting every apprenticeship provider by 2025. All providers have been asked to re-enrol on the register of apprenticeship training providers. We are intervening to help apprentices and employers as well.
Session: Apprenticeships
View All Questions -->
Funding has been allocated but not yet provided. Will the Minister agree to meet me and Hampshire County Council to discuss this long-awaited project?
Context
Residents in Eastleigh have been promised funding for the Chickenhall Lane bypass since the 1970s.
Chris Philp
My hon. Friend is a tireless advocate, and I would be delighted to meet him with colleagues from the Department for Transport.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
May I congratulate the Home Secretary on operationalising the Ukraine visa scheme quickly? May I ask for a reaffirmation that this country will continue offering support?
Context
The question pertains to the effectiveness and future support of the UK's Ukraine visa scheme.
Priti Patel
My hon. Friend is right; the Government are working hard to maximise the number of people in sponsorship schemes and visas routes, noting an uptick in applications due to the generosity of the scheme.
Session: War in Ukraine
View All Questions -->
The hon. Member reported that at the YMCA Young Carers Festival, it was learned there is a lack of central government guidance for schools on providing support for young carers. He mentioned how attendance policies can negatively affect their education and mental health. The hon. Member asked what steps will be taken to bring central guidance to schools.
Context
There is no central Government guidance available to help schools support young carers.
Robin Walker
We are updating our attendance guidance, and I should be happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss further the specific issue of young carers. Having met young carers groups in my own constituency, I know how important it is to engage with them properly and effectively, and we should do that throughout our school system.
Session: Topical Questions
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Eastleigh Borough Council is scheduled to have £670 million of debt by 2025, with no sign of it reducing. Does the Secretary of State think this is acceptable, and what plan does his Department have to tackle such profligate councils?
Context
Eastleigh Borough Council is expected to have £670 million in debt by 2025, with no signs of improvement.
Michael Gove
As Eastleigh Borough Council is so profligate, I presume—I do not know; I do not have the facts in front of me—it must be a Liberal Democrat-controlled council, because profligacy and fiscal incontinence on such a level could only be engineered by the opportunistic gang that masquerades as the Liberal Democrat party.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Independent Lifeboats: Government Support
29 October 2025
Responding: Lilian Greenwood
Main Concerns
['There are approximately 80 independent lifeboats around the UK that lack recognition and resources compared to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). Fundraising efforts have been particularly challenging during the pandemic, with volunteers working tirelessly under voluntary funding. The crews of these independent lifeboats face difficulties in securing funding, recruitment, and inclusion in search and rescue provisions.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks the Minister to discuss how NILA can achieve a permanent position on the UK Search and Rescue Operators Group and commits to write to the Minister for clarification if she cannot answer during the debate. The grant that provided funding to independent lifeboats was discontinued in 2020, leaving many dependent on community support which is often insufficient.']
Hospice Services: Support
14 June 2023
Responding: Helen Whately
Main Concerns
['The hon. Member for Hamble Valley highlighted the significant challenges faced by hospices, including rising staffing and energy costs, staff shortages, and increased demand for services despite a lack of financial support from local NHS commissioning groups. He cited Mountbatten hospice in his constituency as an example, noting that it is facing a £1.4 million deficit and a 5% rise in costs next year with no corresponding change in its NHS contract. The hon. Member also pointed out that the energy bill for Mountbatten has risen by £250,000, a fivefold increase, which has not been mitigated through any additional financial support.']
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member called on the Government to take action and treat the charity care sector with the priority it deserves. He asked for continued funding support that covers staffing and energy cost rises, as well as a long-term funding settlement for hospices in order to ensure they can continue providing vital services.']
Points of Order
14 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Foreign Interference in UK Politics
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Opposition Day
23 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the motion expressing regret over the chaos in Government, particularly regarding the temporary Prime Minister's attendance at the NATO summit. Calls on the Government to spend 3% of GDP on defe...
Murder of Henry Nowak
02 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson Humble Address: Government Response
01 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Points of Order
29 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Member for Hornsey and Friern Barnet raised concern about the recent violent stabbings in the borough of Barnet, expressing worry over repeated violence against the Jewish community. She called on...
Lord Mandelson Humble Address: Government Response Update
27 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Points of Order
27 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Social Cohesion Action Plan
09 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Grenfell Tower Annual Report
25 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
74.0%
54 of 73 votes
Aye Votes
29
39.7% of votes
No Votes
25
34.2% of votes
Abstentions
19
26.0% of votes
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
27 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 25
Ayes: 187
Noes: 351
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 63 Stand part
Ayes: 348
Noes: 167
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 24
Ayes: 184
Noes: 331
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Clause 86 stand part
Ayes: 344
Noes: 173
Passed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 9
Ayes: 181
Noes: 335
Failed
13 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: New Clause 26
Ayes: 172
Noes: 334
Failed
12 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Finance (No. 2) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 185
Noes: 344
Failed
14
PMQs Asked
70
Ministerial Questions Asked
122
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
73
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+280% above average
This MP:
14
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+412% above average
This MP:
70
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-21% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2420% above average
This MP:
122
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+6% above average
This MP:
74.0
Average:
69.5
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Paul Holmes's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.