Peter Swallow
MP for Bracknell
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The Government have delivered the funding needed to rebuild the new Frimley Park hospital after the Conservatives made empty, unfunded promises to my constituents. Now we urgently need to get on with announcing the preferred site, along with the investment needed to improve public transport, road access and parking. Will the Prime Minister urge NHS England to make this a priority and help give much-needed clarity to Bracknell Forest residents?
Context
The government has provided funding for the new Frimley Park hospital, but there is an urgent need to announce a preferred site and improvements in public transport.
Keir Starmer
Delivering the new Frimley Park hospital is a priority. Under the Conservatives, my hon. Friend's constituents were given totally empty promises. They failed patients and they failed staff. We put forward a proper plan and the funding to match, and the trust is making real progress on the business case.
Assessment
Urging NHS England to make this a priority
Delivering The New Frimley Park Hospital Is A Priority.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Will the Minister set out when my constituents will be given clarity on these really important issues?
Context
The Hong Kong community in Bracknell Forest has welcomed the continuation of the five-year settlement route for BNO visa holders, but concerns remain over changes to language and income requirements, as well as delays for those prosecuted under the national security law.
Mike Tapp
We have consulted widely on earned settlement. We are considering the responses, and will bring forward reforms at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime, those on the BNO route can continue to apply, and the service standard for that route continues to be six months.
Session: British National Overseas Visa 2026-07-13
View All Questions -->
What assessment has the Department made of the effectiveness of the British national overseas visa settlement route?
Context
The question arises from the successful launch of the British national overseas visa settlement route for Hongkongers, with more than 170,000 individuals moving to the UK and thousands granted settlement status.
Mike Tapp
We assess that the route has been a success. Since it launched, more than 170,000 Hongkongers have moved to the UK, and thousands have now been granted settlement status.
Session: British National Overseas Visa 2026-07-13
View All Questions -->
Year 7 students from Ranelagh school in Bracknell have written to me as part of the Creative for Climate Justice Project, sharing some incredible artwork and poetry. They note that the impacts of climate change are already visible and call on us to act now to avoid irreversible damage. Does my hon. Friend agree? Will she assure those students that the Government heed their call for action?
Context
Year 7 students from Ranelagh school in Bracknell have expressed concerns about the impacts of climate change and their desire for immediate government action.
Katie White
I thank my hon. Friend for bringing up this important issue and reassure Ranelagh school students that their voices are heard, which is why we are launching a youth scheme in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-07
View All Questions -->
Bracknell residents are concerned that two vital local post offices, in Crown Wood and in Bracknell town centre, are at risk of closure because of the travails of their host stores, Morrisons Daily and TGJones. That follows the recent closure of a post office in Easthampstead. Will the Minister please set out what work the Government are doing to protect these vital local services?
Context
Residents are concerned about the potential closure of two vital local post offices in Bracknell and Easthampstead.
Blair McDougall
With issues around Morrisons Daily and TGJones, we maintain the current size of the post office network. We are talking to the Post Office about potential closures, advertising for alternative sub-postmasters where there is a risk.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-02
View All Questions -->
I echo the Secretary of State's introductory comments and congratulate England and Scotland on a great start to the world cup. Since coming to power, this Government have cut funding for school sport, listed places of worship, tourism marketing and so much more, yet they have found billions for welfare, Chagos and inflation-busting pay rises for their union mates. Last Sunday, the Secretary of State went on telly to say that she was in discussions about cutting DCMS spending even further. Well, where and when? And who is to blame: is it the Prime Minister, for his weakness and failure to tackle welfare spending, or is it the Chancellor, for her utter economic incompetence?
Context
The question is prompted by the challenges faced by public service broadcasters.
Lisa Nandy
The Government are committed to ensuring that the BBC is set up on a sustainable basis for the future through the charter review, so that it can thrive for many years to come. But the BBC, he is right to say, is not the only public service broadcaster in this country. We have public service broadcasting that is the envy of the world, and the Government are determined to do everything we can to support and safeguard it, including by challenging where necessary—as we have with the response to “Married at First Sight” by Channel 4—when we believe that those standards are not being upheld.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I am concerned about the serious allegations of abuse against women in the TV industry. Members across this House will be horrified and disgusted at these allegations. Everyone has the right to be safe and treated with dignity. The Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts recently met Channel 4 about the serious allegations that have emerged about “Married at First Sight”. We are not satisfied as a Government with the response that we have received.
Context
The question is prompted by recent serious allegations of abuse against women in the TV industry.
Lisa Nandy
We are not satisfied as a Government with the response that we have received, and I will discuss that further with Channel 4 in the coming week.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Does he share my concern that that would undermine devolution before it even started?
Context
Concerns about a spatial development strategy being imposed on Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Swindon with a larger geography undermining devolution.
Matthew Pennycook
I am aware of my hon. Friend's robust views on this matter. There are a range of views about the right geographies for spatial development strategies. The Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, my hon. Friend the hon. Member for Barking (Nesil Caliskan), and I are looking at all the consultation responses we have received, and we will make decisions on the full basis of having those fed in.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
One of the biggest barriers to accessing community healthcare in Bracknell Forest is constituents not being able to get routine diagnostic procedures done at their local GP or health centre, and instead having to travel. One constituent with cancer was told that he had to go to Guildford for a simple blood test. How will the introduction of a single patient record help to break down some of those barriers?
Context
One of the biggest barriers to accessing community healthcare in Bracknell Forest is constituents not being able to get routine diagnostic procedures done locally.
Karin Smyth
The single patient record will give clinicians timely access to a single trusted record so that decisions can be made more efficiently, avoiding duplication, allowing them to spend more time with patients. The system makes all information on a patient accessible in a single place and will allow the sharing of patient data among different settings, as my hon. Friend outlines, and provide more flexibility in where services are made available.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What policies are in place to support nature and waterway recovery following such incidents?
Context
The question is prompted by a major fire that occurred last week, which raised concerns about the environmental impact on local waterways. The issue has been brought to the attention of the Environment Agency.
Emma Hardy
I thank my hon. Friend for bringing this important issue to the House, and I join him in paying tribute to the Environment Agency, all the emergency responders and everybody who has been working so hard. Public health advice has been issued, including precautionary guidance to avoid contact with potentially contaminated material. The incident is under investigation to assess regulatory compliance and to determine whether enforcement action is required, and I am happy to meet him to see whether it has been dealt with to his satisfaction and whether there is any more help I can give him.
Session: Clean Waterways Thames Valley
View All Questions -->
What steps she is taking to help clean waterways in the Thames Valley?
Context
The question is prompted by ongoing pollution issues affecting water quality and the need for decisive action to address them.
Emma Hardy
We are taking decisive action to clean up waterways in the Thames valley, tackling pollution from water companies, agriculture and urban run-off. The Environment Agency carried out more than 800 inspections of Thames Water assets this year, holding water companies to account and improving water quality for local communities.
Session: Clean Waterways Thames Valley
View All Questions -->
Does the Secretary of State agree that giving immunity to terrorists who committed terrible crimes is wrong in principle, and can he provide an update on when he plans to move the approval motion for the remedial order to repeal it?
Context
The previous government's Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 aimed to offer immunity to perpetrators of crimes during the troubles.
Hilary Benn
I agree with my hon. Friend that seeking to give immunity to terrorists who committed the most terrible crimes, including the killing of police officers, soldiers and many members of the public, was profoundly wrong. It is also wrong in principle. On the remedial order, now that we have the Dillon judgment we will be bringing it forward as soon as parliamentary time allows.
Session: Supreme Court Dillon Judgment Policy Implications
View All Questions -->
Does the Secretary of State agree that while we commend Wales for its impressive clean energy oversupply, we should focus on the lessons that offers for upgrading infrastructure across Wales and the rest of the United Kingdom?
Context
The question is prompted by the need to focus on lessons from clean energy oversupply in Wales for upgrading infrastructure across the UK.
Jo Stevens
Clearly, we need to continue our drive to invest more in energy infrastructure. We will deliver that energy independence only through the building of infrastructure.
Session: Clean Energy
View All Questions -->
What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on support for clean energy projects in Wales. The war in Iran highlights the importance of clean energy to the UK, affecting bills across regions from Bracknell to Bangor.
Context
No specific event or statistic is provided, but the question addresses the importance of clean energy support following recent discussions.
Jo Stevens
My hon. Friend is absolutely right: achieving energy independence is crucial for Wales and we will be better off because of it, with more jobs created and bills brought down. That is why we have made the investments at Port Talbot and Wylfa that I mentioned.
Session: Clean Energy
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister support the Liberal Democrat plan requiring all new housing developments to have GP facilities ready before residents move in?
Context
The MP reported a health survey showing difficulty in accessing GP appointments due to recent massive house building without adequate GP facilities.
Stephen Kinnock
The primary care utilisation and modernisation fund has £102 million to develop estate capacity, and 120 neighbourhood health centres are planned by end of Parliament. The MP should discuss this issue with their ICB for resolution.
Session: Access to GPs Bracknell Forest
View All Questions -->
What steps are being taken to improve levels of access to GPs in Bracknell Forest? Many residents find the best way to contact their GP is online or by phone, but others want to book an appointment in person. Can my hon. Friend confirm that the new GP contract guarantees patients can choose how they contact their GP?
Context
The MP noted issues faced by residents in Bracknell Forest regarding GP access and declared his brother as a GP.
Stephen Kinnock
Patients must have the option to telephone or visit their practice in person. Online tools are an addition, not a replacement for other methods. Expanding online access has reduced pressure on phone lines and ended the 8 am scramble.
Session: Access to GPs Bracknell Forest
View All Questions -->
What conversations has the Minister had with colleagues across Government about a whole-of-society approach to misinformation?
Context
The hon. Member visited Estonia to learn about early-years education where even nursery-aged children are taught to spot fake news.
Dan Jarvis
The defending democracy taskforce is addressing these threats through a whole-of-society approach and we are working closely with partners to hold platforms accountable for harmful content.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Given that Meta's representative was unable to confirm whether the company is doing enough to prevent foreign actors from using social media to undermine democratic rights and freedoms, and with the Second Reading of the Representation of the People Bill seeking to strengthen democracy, does my hon. Friend agree that we need to get tougher with social media companies that are not doing enough to address foreign interference on their platforms?
Context
The MP refers to a meeting with Meta's representative who was unable to confirm whether the company is doing enough to prevent foreign actors from using social media to undermine democratic rights and freedoms. He also mentions the Second Reading of the Representation of the People Bill, which aims to strengthen democracy.
Dan Jarvis
The hon. Friend agrees that social media platforms have a very important role to play in safeguarding our democracy. The foreign interference offence is a priority offence under the Online Safety Act 2023, which places duties on social media platforms to tackle illegal content and requires proactive action to identify and minimise users' exposure to state-linked interference. The Government will not hesitate to go further to protect citizens and democracy from this threat.
Session: Foreign State Actors Disinformation
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of trends in levels of disinformation by foreign state actors, particularly from Russia, which is an immediate and evolving threat characterised by divisive information operations and the manipulation of public discourse?
Context
The MP is concerned about the trend of disinformation by foreign state actors, particularly from Russia, which has been characterized as an immediate and evolving threat to public discourse and democracy.
Dan Jarvis
The Government have sanctioned 38 organisations for information warfare since 2024, enforced the Online Safety Act 2023, and built media literacy skills for young people to engage with information critically. The UK has sanctioned three foreign information and manipulation targets responsible for destabilising Ukraine and undermining European democracy.
Session: Foreign State Actors Disinformation
View All Questions -->
Does she agree that the devolving powers to create a vacant land tax will prevent land banking, and will lead to more houses being built in Wales?
Context
The MP welcomed the announcement of devolving powers to create a vacant land tax to the Welsh Government.
Jo Stevens
I was pleased to announce last month that this Government plan to devolve powers to the Welsh Government to introduce a vacant land tax, subject to consultation. This will help the Welsh Government to encourage even more house building, fuelling construction jobs and economic growth.
Session: Economic Growth
View All Questions -->
The International Road Assessment Programme, based in Bracknell, has saved well over half a million lives from road crashes around the world, which is a significant contribution to the UN's sustainable development goals and a real success story of British expertise on the global stage. What can this Government do to champion the work of iRAP more effectively?
Context
The International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) has saved lives globally but needs more support.
Chris Elmore
Improving road safety is a global challenge. Every year, 1.2 million people die on the roads—it is the biggest killer of young people. I thank my hon. Friend for bringing this to the House's attention. Through the Department of Health and Social Care, the UK contributes £12.5 million to the Global Road Safety Facility and is represented on its partnership council, and we continue to work on this truly important issue.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What discussions has the Minister had with colleagues in the Ministry of Defence regarding tying the national youth strategy together with the aim to expand cadet force access by 30% by 2030?
Context
The national youth strategy offers a chance to improve access to youth services. The MOD's strategic defence review aims for 30% more cadets across the UK by 2030.
Stephanie Peacock
Discussions with the MOD are ongoing regarding the “30 by 30” programme which aims to recruit an additional 40,000 cadets across the UK.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Last week, I dropped into the Wayz youth centre in Bracknell to celebrate its 60th anniversary—that is, 60 years of supporting young people in Bracknell Forest, developing their skills and helping them find and use their voice. This Government are backing the youth centre with our national youth strategy, which young people from the Wayz contributed to. I am delighted that the Government have announced more capital funding to support youth centres after many years of neglect. What specific funding pots are available for the Wayz because when a youth centre is 60 years old, there is always a need to invest in the day-to-day upkeep?
Context
The Wayz youth centre, which has supported young people in Bracknell Forest for 60 years, recently celebrated its anniversary. The Government announced more capital funding to support youth centres after many years of neglect.
Stephanie Peacock
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend, who is a strong champion for his constituency, and to Wayz for all its work over the last 60 years. The strategy is backed by £500 million of new funding, £350 million of which will be available till the end of March 2030, to refurbish or build youth facilities through our better youth spaces programme. We are committed to working with areas of greatest need across the length and breadth of England, and I will write further to him.
Session: Outcomes for Young People Bracknell Forest
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to help improve outcomes for young people in Bracknell Forest?
Context
The question follows the publication of 'Youth Matters', a government strategy for young people. The Wayz youth centre, which has supported young people in Bracknell Forest for 60 years, recently celebrated its anniversary.
Stephanie Peacock
In December, we published “Youth Matters”, the first Government strategy in over a decade for young people up and down the country. It will, of course, run alongside other major Government investments, including the youth guarantee and the expansion of mental health support teams in schools.
Session: Outcomes for Young People Bracknell Forest
View All Questions -->
I am delighted that two mental health support teams are already at work in Bracknell Forest. There is a lot more to do to fix the child and adolescent mental health services system. Could the Minister set out how school-based interventions are beginning to deliver change?
Context
Two mental health support teams are already in Bracknell Forest, assisting nearly four-fifths of local pupils.
Zubir Ahmed
Mental health support teams provide innovative early support for children and young people in schools and colleges. Up to 900,000 additional pupils will have access to that support by the spring, and we are accelerating the roll-out to reach full national coverage by 2029.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Across the country, millions of fathers can be denied time off work to spend with a newborn child. Thousands of carers are out of work because employers will not give them the flexibility they need. This Government are delivering day one paternity leave, and we are listening on carer’s leave. I know what a difference that will make to my constituents. Can the Minister think why the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage) and his Reform MPs voted against this change?
Context
The MP is concerned about the denial of time off for new fathers and carers due to inflexible work conditions.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Kate Dearden)
I thank my hon. Friend for his really important question; he is absolutely right to raise this issue. Reform voted against the Employment Rights Act at every single opportunity. The hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage) would row back on the protections that we have given to 18 million workers across the country, including the vital day one paternity leave and parental leave, statutory sick pay for the lowest paid, protections for pregnant workers, increased protection from unfair dismissal, an end to exploitative zero-hours contracts, a new right to bereavement leave and so much more. Reform is simply not the party for working people; Labour is. Reform Members voted against the Act, and their plans would threaten employment up and down the country.
Session: Workers’ Rights Bracknell Forest
View All Questions -->
I welcome the commitment in the post-16 education and skills White Paper to support the development of skills passports, because supporting young people to develop essential skills such as media and financial literacy, communication and problem solving must be at the heart of our plans to tackle youth unemployment. What conversations has my hon. Friend had with the Education Secretary on developing and capturing skills before 16 as well?
Context
The Labour MP noted concerns about youth unemployment and the importance of developing essential skills for young people. He referenced the commitment in the post-16 education and skills White Paper to support skills passports.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
I confess that my hon. Friend has had more conversations with the Department for Education on this subject than I have, because he met the Secretary of State recently to discuss this. He will be pleased, I am sure, to know that the Department for Work and Pensions, working with UKHospitality, piloted skills passports in the hospitality sector last year, and that the role of my noble Friend the Skills Minister sits directly between the Department for Education and the Department for Work and Pensions specifically so that the sort of joined-up work to which he refers can take place.
Session: Post-16 Education
View All Questions -->
Bracknell Forest council has submitted a bid to the Heat Networks Delivery Unit for a feasibility study on a district heat network that would stretch across our town centre. Does the Minister agree that such schemes can support local businesses and residents in cutting emissions and bills?
Context
Swallow notes that Bracknell Forest council has submitted a bid for a feasibility study on a district heat network to support local businesses and residents in reducing emissions and bills.
Martin McCluskey
My hon. Friend will have heard me say earlier how important heat networks are to decarbonisation. They will play such an important role in providing energy across our country in future. I am more than happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss that.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister set out how the industrial strategy will ensure that Bracknell and the wider south-east reaches its full potential?
Context
The Get Britain Growing: South East conference discussed opportunities across advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital innovation and more.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Blair McDougall)
My hon. Friend is a dynamic advocate for a dynamic part of the country in the Thames valley. The industrial strategy and its sector plans highlight the strengths in his area, especially in tech and life sciences. Alongside the national package to grow the sector, specific interventions in the south-east include an AI growth zone in Culham, support for the Solent freeport, expanding the British Business Bank’s nations and regions investment fund and major projects backing the Oxford to Cambridge growth corridor. We will keep working with my hon. Friend to unlock the potential across the south-east.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Let me first declare that I chair the all-party parliamentary group for schools, learning and assessment and the APPG on social mobility. Businesses, schools and young people in Bracknell Forest all tell me that essential skills such as financial, digital and media literacy, creative problem-solving, communication and collaboration are more important than ever, but are not formally recognised or measured. How can we help young people to succeed by developing and recognising those essential skills?
Context
Young people need essential skills such as financial, digital and media literacy, creative problem-solving, communication and collaboration.
Georgia Gould
I look forward to working with the APPG. We agree that we need to equip young people with key knowledge and skills to adapt to a rapidly changing world, and the curriculum and assessment review will say more about the wider curriculum.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I thank the almost 500 constituents who responded to my summer road safety campaign. One of the top issues raised is the use of antisocial off-road bikes. I warmly welcome new measures in the Crime and Policing Bill to allow the police to seize these bikes without warning. Will my hon. Friend also look at the sale of off-road bikes to see what can be done to restrict them at source?
Context
The MP highlighted a summer road safety campaign with nearly 500 constituent responses, one of which raised concerns about antisocial off-road bikes.
The Minister for Policing and Crime (Sarah Jones)
I think the number of constituents who responded to my hon. Friend’s survey shows that this is really important for our communities and something that we have to get a grip of. There has been a worrying increase in such crimes. As part of our safer streets mission, this Government are cracking down on the crimes that make people feel unsafe in our communities, including snatch, theft, pickpocketing and robbery.
Session: Antisocial Behaviour
View All Questions -->
What steps is my right hon. Friend taking to ensure that more adult volunteers are able to support our fantastic cadets?
Context
The strategic defence review highlighted the need for a whole-of-society approach to defence, including expanding cadets by 30% by 2030. Support from adult volunteers is key.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
My hon. Friend is exactly right. Cadet forces cannot exist without the adult volunteers who support them, and they are central to our ability to increase the number of cadet forces across this country by 30% by 2030, which will give so many young people opportunities in the future.
Session: Strategic Defence Review Recommendations Timetable
View All Questions -->
The Climate Change Committee says that the UK should be proud of its approach to consistent and sustained decarbonisation, but there is much more to do. This week, Bracknell Forest Community Climate Action is hosting a summit to discuss what can be done locally to address climate change and support nature. Does the Minister agree that local initiatives like this demonstrate the strong public support for action on climate change?
Context
The Climate Change Committee report acknowledges the UK's progress in decarbonisation but highlights the need for more action. Bracknell Forest Community Climate Action is hosting a summit to discuss local measures.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Kerry McCarthy)
We know that there is strong public support, and we are keen to engage more at a local level with groups like Bracknell Forest Community Climate Action. That is why we have set up the local net zero delivery group to work with councils and mayors, and why we will produce a public participation strategy later this year.
Session: Climate Change Committee Report
View All Questions -->
What assessment has been made of the potential implications for policies of the Climate Change Committee’s report entitled “Progress in reducing emissions”, published on 25 June 2025?
Context
The Climate Change Committee published its annual progress report on reducing emissions in the UK. The report assesses the government's actions and outlines areas for improvement.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Kerry McCarthy)
The Climate Change Committee report made clear the progress we have made in the past 12 months on overturning the terrible legacy of the Conservatives, who turned their back on climate action. We know that clean power is the route to energy security, lower bills and good jobs.
Session: Climate Change Committee Report
View All Questions -->
Through the Government’s landmark Renters’ Rights Bill, we are doing much to address the inequities of the rental sector for constituents in Bracknell and across the country—for instance, we are extending the right to request a pet. Now the Government are turning our attention to reforming leasehold. My right hon. Friend will know that many leaseholders are also blocked from having a pet by a clause in their head lease. What can we do to deal with that?
Context
Residents are blocked from having pets by a clause in their head lease, and seek measures to address this issue.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Angela Rayner)
I know that my hon. Friend has already spoken to the Minister for Housing and Planning about this issue, and that those discussions will continue. As you well know, Mr Speaker, pets bring joy, happiness and comfort to their owners, while also supporting their mental and physical wellbeing. We have strengthened the rights of private tenants to keep pets in the Renters’ Rights Bill, and we will of course keep the position of leaseholders with pets under review.
Session: Leasehold Reform
View All Questions -->
The nationally recognised BRAVE—Building Resilience and Valuing Emotions—programme supported adult survivors of domestic abuse in Berkshire, but after our Conservative police and crime commissioner cut its funding by 25%, the scheme was left unviable. Does the Minister share my deep disappointment about this cut?
Context
The nationally recognized BRAVE programme supported adult survivors of domestic abuse in Berkshire, but it was left unviable after the funding was cut by 25%.
Jess Phillips
Yes, I do. I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the important work that BRAVE has done in Berkshire. Grassroots organisations are at the heart of work to support domestic abuse victims and the communities they live in. Tackling domestic abuse is at the heart of the Government’s mission and, I should hope, the mission of every police and crime commissioner.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Earlier this month, I opened the Launch Pad, a new SEND provision at Sandhurst school, and I was shown around by Ben, who told me how the Launch Pad had helped him to access education. As the Government work at pace to fix the broken SEND system, what is the Minister’s message for young people like Ben?
Context
The MP opened the Launch Pad at Sandhurst school, a new SEND provision that has helped students like Ben to access education.
Catherine McKinnell
We know that there are lots of great examples of mainstream schools delivering specialist provision, such as the one my hon. Friend recently opened, enabling children to achieve and thrive in mainstream school and providing excellent support to children with speech and language needs. We have allocated £740 million to support mainstream schools to increase their SEND provision, and we want to reassure his constituent that we will continue to prioritise that in our work.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Bracknell Forest has seen a spate of tool thefts recently. Tool theft is a double whammy: traders have to fork out thousands for new tools, all while they are out of work. I have raised this issue with Thames Valley police and the police and crime commissioner, but what more can be done through the Government’s neighbourhood policing guarantee to stamp down on this cruel crime?
Context
A spate of tool thefts has occurred in Bracknell Forest, affecting local traders and causing economic hardship. The local community is seeking effective measures to combat this crime.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Yvette Cooper)
My hon. Friend is exactly right to raise that serious crime. Honest, hard-working tradespeople in communities across the country are being robbed of their livelihoods as a result of this kind of crime. That is why we are working with the National Police Chiefs’ Council on how we target the serious and organised crime that is often behind such equipment and tool theft, and putting neighbourhood police back on the streets in communities, so they can both work on prevention and go after the criminals responsible.
Session: Neighbourhood Policing
View All Questions -->
Bracknell was designated a new town 76 years ago, and it has been a huge success, partly due to its design with leisure facilities, nature access, and transport links built into its DNA. Given that the government is planning the next generation of new towns, will my right hon. Friend commit to learning from past successes like Bracknell?
Context
Refers to Bracknell's success as a designated new town in 1946 with well-designed infrastructure. Asks about the Government's plans for future new towns.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Angela Rayner)
I agree with my hon. Friend that there is a lot to admire from the past, including Bracknell. We are learning lessons from previous new towns to ensure future ones are well connected, designed sustainably, and attractive places where people want to live, with necessary infrastructure and services.
Session: New Towns
View All Questions -->
I know that my right hon. Friend will be delighted by the news that Go-op will be operating a new mandate for return services between Swindon and Taunton. Does she agree that this demonstrates the Government’s commitment to improving connectivity across the country? Can we hope for such improvements to connectivity in my little corner of the world in Berkshire?
Context
Go-op will operate a new mandate for return services between Swindon and Taunton, demonstrating the Government's commitment to improving connectivity. The questioner seeks similar improvements in Berkshire.
The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
I am pleased that my hon. Friend has raised this proposal, which demonstrates the pragmatic approach we take to open access operators. Go-op will be the first co-operatively owned train service running anywhere in the UK. If there are any investors out there thinking about investing in that service, I encourage them to look closely at it.
Session: Open Access Railway Services
View All Questions -->
I welcome the news that the MOD has signed the British Dyslexia Association’s dyslexia-friendly workplace pledge. Does the Minister agree that, to address the recruitment crisis, it is vital that the armed forces remain inclusive for recruits from all backgrounds and with all experiences, while rightly continuing to demand high standards?
Context
The MP welcomed the MOD's commitment to being a dyslexia-friendly workplace.
The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)
I am pleased to confirm that the Ministry of Defence signed the dyslexia-friendly workplace pledge at the end of last year, making us the first UK Government Department to do so. It is a fantastic step forward that signals that the MOD is a top employer for people with dyslexia. Whatever someone’s ability, there is a role for them within our armed forces, because our armed forces need people with a whole range of abilities, backgrounds and expertise to keep our nation safe.
Session: Armed Forces Recruitment
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Children: Development of Essential Skills — [Dr Rosena Allin-Khan in the Chair]
02 June 2026
Responding: Georgia Gould
Main Concerns
["The hon. Member is concerned about the risks and opportunities posed by technology and artificial intelligence to young people, emphasising the importance of essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, resilience, and media literacy in a world where misinformation and harmful content are prevalent on social media. He highlights issues with democratic education being tokenistic and not properly equipping teachers to facilitate discussions about democracy and politics, pointing out that this is particularly concerning given the Government's plans to lower the voting age to 16. The Member also raises concerns about enrichment opportunities being inconsistent across different types of schools, leading to a disparity in non-academic skill development."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister to ensure that essential skills are integrated into the curriculum and not tokenised, embedding them throughout teaching and learning approaches such as oracy. Additionally, I urge for meaningful opportunities for all young people regardless of background or location, and a commitment to reforming the skills passport system to better record and demonstrate essential skills developed both in and outside the classroom.']
Access to Healthcare: Bracknell Forest
19 November 2025
Responding: Karin Smyth
Main Concerns
['Chronic under-resourcing after 14 years of Conservative austerity has left too many unable to access the care they need. Peter Swallow highlights issues such as insufficient parking, accessibility by public transport, and the ongoing need to rebuild the Royal Berkshire hospital. He also points out a shortage of GPs in Bracknell Forest with 1,874 patients for every GP.']
Specific Asks
['Swallow urges the trust to make an announcement about the location of the new hospital as soon as practically possible and welcomes a review of services offered by Brants Bridge to better support community care. He also calls for more local appointments to be prioritised in areas like Sandhurst.']
Cadet Forces
29 January 2025
Responding: Al Carns
Main Concerns
["On Remembrance Sunday, the hon. Member reflected on the service and sacrifices of our armed forces, noting the presence of young people from Bracknell’s local cadet forces. He also highlighted the importance of expanding all cadet forces beyond Combined Cadet Forces and ensuring that opportunities for young people are shared across regions and nations. In November, he visited Brackenhale school and met its combined cadet force contingent, noting how staff, students, and volunteers are passionate about CCF's impact on creating a sense of belonging and teamwork among students."]
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member asks for the Minister to recognise the importance of ensuring that the benefits of participation in the cadets are open to all young people, regardless of background or gender. He also requests that the government continues to support the expansion programme to ensure more young people can benefit from these opportunities.']
Driving Test Availability
16 October 2024
Responding: Lilian Greenwood
Main Concerns
['Driving test delays have tripled since records began in 2015. New learners now face an average wait of over five months, causing significant logistical hurdles and real-world costs for constituents like Molly who must retake her theory due to the two-year limit. Others travel long distances or use black market services to secure a slot. Businesses also struggle with getting tests for minivans and lorries, exacerbating the problem.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Minister to set out steps to end financial abuse from test touting, investigate opening a new test centre in my constituency, and ensure more learners pass first time. Additionally, I welcome action on car insurance premiums which have increased by 21% since June 2022.']
Backbench Business
09 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mohamed argues that successive British Governments have acknowledged the illegality and harmful effects of Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories but have failed to take decisive ...
Foreign Interference in UK Politics
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Rochdale Grooming Gang: Offender Deportation
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Accommodation
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Media Green Paper
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Climate Change
24 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to approve the draft Carbon Budget Order 2026, which was laid before this House on 2 June.
Pathways Study: Puberty Suppression
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Thames Water
16 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
The Royal Albert Hall (Charitable Corporation) Bill - Revival Motion
15 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I am pleased to support the revival motion before the House today. The Bill is necessary and beneficial for the Royal Albert Hall, which operates on a unique public-private partnership model establish...
Pride Month
04 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Olivia Bailey opens the debate by highlighting the progress made in LGBT+ rights and recognising Labour's role in repealing section 28, ending the ban on LGBT people serving in armed forces, introduci...
The future of Acoustic Couch, Bracknell
24 June 2025
The petition addresses the impending closure of Acoustic Couch, a community-run music venue in Bracknell, due to structural issues with its current location. Petitioners are concerned about the lack o...
View Full Petition -->
The Future of Acoustic Couch, Bracknell
29 April 2025
The petition highlights the threat to the Acoustic Couch, a community-run grassroots music venue in Bracknell that is set to close due to structural issues with its current location by the end of 2025...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
81.9%
68 of 83 votes
Aye Votes
24
28.9% of votes
No Votes
44
53.0% of votes
Abstentions
15
18.1% of votes
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
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 Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
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: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
1
PMQs Asked
52
Ministerial Questions Asked
140
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
83
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-73% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+281% above average
This MP:
52
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+58% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2792% above average
This MP:
140
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-18% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+18% above average
This MP:
81.9
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 Peter Swallow's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.