Rachael Maskell
MP for York Central
Labour (Co-op)
Labour
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7 May 2015 - 3 May 2017
Labour
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8 Jun 2017 - 6 Nov 2019
Labour
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12 Dec 2019 - 30 May 2024
Labour
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4 Jul 2024 - 16 Jul 2025
Independent
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16 Jul 2025 - 7 Nov 2025
Labour
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7 Nov 2025 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Before coming to this House, the Prime Minister and I attended the launch of my uncle's book. It was entitled “Fine Lines and Distinctions”. Clearly, sometimes we have had those differences, but I genuinely wish him and his family well for the future. But before he places his pen down, I understand that there is a tradition of leaving a note for your successor. In wishing all hon. Members the very best of summers, I ask that he asks his successor, my right hon. Friend the Member for Makerfield (Andy Burnham), to enact my legislation to license short-term holiday lets and ensure that we can protect our communities from family houses turning into party houses in residential areas and ensure that we keep housing costs down?
Context
The question arises from a tradition of leaving a note for the successor. The MP wants to ensure that her legislation is enacted by the new leader.
Keir Starmer
I am not sure about a note for my successor. We left one in 2010 which did not work too well. [Laughter.] I am sure that my successor will look at my hon. Friend's private Member's Bill, and I am proud to have overseen the biggest boost to renters' rights in a generation. We kick-started the biggest boost to social and affordable house building, and wherever people live, they deserve a safe, secure home that they can call their own.
Assessment
Did not commit to asking his successor specifically about enacting legislation
Session: PMQs 2026-07-15
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Many independent business owners I have met fear the cumulative impact of the rateable value revision and relief reductions, particularly in York where hospitality businesses will see an average rise of 41%, music venues a rise of 44.4% and shops around 27%. This means doors are closing and trade ceasing—businesses simply cannot do it. Will the Prime Minister urgently review the business rates proposals, and will he ensure that a Minister or official attends my business rates summit at the end of January? I want to avert a crisis on York’s high streets.
Context
Independent business owners in York are facing significant increases in business rates, with hospitality businesses seeing an average rise of 41%, music venues a rise of 44.4%, and shops around 27%. These rate rises threaten to close doors and cease trade for many businesses.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that issue. As she knows, the rates went down during covid, and that is now coming to an end. We have therefore put in interim relief as we move to the new rates. We are continuing to work with and talk to the sector about that support and about what further support and action we can take.
Session: PMQs
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Will my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister agree to set up a pensioner poverty taskforce so that older people do not have to worry about paying for their housing, food and heating costs, ensuring that they have dignity in later life?
Context
The MP highlights the issue of older people in poverty and requests a pensioner poverty taskforce.
Keir Starmer
We will deliver on our manifesto commitment to tackle child poverty, as we did last time in government. We will publish our strategy in the spring.
Assessment
Setting up a pensioner poverty taskforce
Deflection
Session: PMQs
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I have heard many heart-rending stories of constituents who had poor palliative care. Will the Deputy Prime Minister agree to set up a commission for palliative and end-of-life care, so that everyone can access the best support when terminally ill?
Context
The MP highlighted constituents' heart-rending stories of poor end-of-life support.
Angela Rayner
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this emotive subject. Discussions have begun on how to improve access to palliative and end-of-life care, and I will ensure that she gets a meeting with the relevant Minister.
Assessment
Did not commit to setting up a commission
Session: PMQs
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158 days since conflict started, there is no peace or aid. With a rising death toll and spreading disease, will the PM change his approach for an immediate bilateral ceasefire?
Context
Maskell expresses deep concern about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with no peace, food, water, or medical aid.
Rishi Sunak
We are playing a leading role in alleviating suffering with £100 million aid this year, 150 tonnes of UK aid due to arrive in Gaza today and a full field hospital flown from Manchester last week.
Assessment
Commitment to ceasefire was avoided
General Statements
Session: PMQs
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Crisis mental health services are in crisis, and patients and families are being gaslit and put at risk. This week is Mental Health Awareness Week, but there is no Government awareness to ensure that my constituents are safe, and that funding and workforce needs are met. Why are the right hon. Gentleman's Government sitting on their hands? A devastating report is sitting on the Health Secretary's desk while patients in York and across the NHS are being failed. Can the trust and I have an urgent meeting?
Context
Mental Health Awareness Week highlighted the crisis in mental health services, with a report on the Secretary of State's desk indicating issues affecting patients and staff. The crisis involves inadequate funding and staffing.
Oliver Dowden
I am sure that a ministerial colleague in the Department of Health and Social Care will be happy to have that meeting. This Government have put more money into mental health services, and we are funding 150 wider capital schemes. This Government have made mental health services a priority.
Assessment
The MP requested an urgent meeting to discuss specific issues, but the answer did not commit to such a meeting directly or provide detailed specifics on addressing current crises in funding and staffing.
This Government Have Made Mental Health Services A Priority
Session: PMQs
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While the PM enjoys himself, my constituents face rising costs, with York among the top 10 places for a living crisis. When will he stop protecting himself and start helping them?
Context
The cost-of-living crisis in York, including high rent prices and food, energy, and tax increases, is pushing constituents into poverty.
Boris Johnson
We have increased local housing allowance, the living wage twice by record amounts, and improved universal credit. Our jobs-led recovery is driving growth.
Assessment
No specific plan or timeline for addressing cost-of-living issues was provided.
Session: PMQs
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I have asked the Prime Minister a series of questions about charities. In November, he promised support. By March he had turned his back, but this month, he broke that promise, giving them nothing this winter. His words and deeds are as unfaithful as his principles and beliefs. He has neither the commitment to honour his word, the capacity to care, nor the compassion to act. Does the Prime Minister really believe that charity is all about supporting him and his lifestyle or recognise that charities now £10 billion in debt and struggling to survive need Government support to help people in real need?
Context
The Prime Minister promised support for charities in November, but by March had turned his back on them. Charities are now £10 billion in debt and struggling to survive.
Boris Johnson
I think charities perform an amazing and invaluable role in our society and in our lives, and we need them. That is why we have supported charity shops throughout the lockdown with restart grants—the road map means that those shops are now able to open again—but, in addition, we had a £750 million targeted package of support for charities, helping more than 14,000 organisations across the country, including funding for hospices, homelessness charities, shelters for victims of domestic abuse and many others.
Assessment
The PM did not acknowledge breaking previous promises but highlighted recent support measures.
Highlighted Recent Actions
Session: PMQs
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BioYorkshire will place York at the heart of the global bioscience economy. It will cut carbon by 2,800 kilotons, create 4,000 green-collar jobs, upskill 25,000 workers and return £5 billion to the Treasury. The Government are supportive but are delaying investment until at least the devolution deal. Unemployment in York is soaring. We need this investment now. Will the Prime Minister start the recovery by investing in BioYorkshire?
Context
BioYorkshire will cut carbon, create jobs and return billions to the Treasury. Unemployment in York is high.
Boris Johnson
As the hon. Lady knows, the Government are committed to the 10-point plan for a green industrial revolution, which will generate 250,000 jobs across the country just in the immediate term. I hope very much that BioYorkshire will be among the beneficiaries, and I cannot see any reason why it should not be.
Assessment
Did not commit to immediate investment in BioYorkshire.
10-Point Plan
Cannot See Any Reason
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister holds the power to save jobs or sacrifice the livelihoods of my constituents. Currently, 17,700 people living in my constituency of York Central are furloughed; their future rests in his hands. Next month, 22% of my constituents could lose their jobs and futures unless furlough is extended. Reformed, yes; more flexible, a must; targeted, absolutely. Extend and review is the only way forward. My question is: will the Prime Minister do that?
Context
The MP mentioned that 17,700 people in her constituency are currently furloughed and could lose their jobs unless the furlough scheme is extended. She requested a more flexible extension to target those still needing support.
Boris Johnson
I hope the hon. Lady is not saying that she simply wants to extend the furlough scheme, because I do not believe that that is the right way—the hon. Member for Ashton-under-Lyne (Angela Rayner) is shaking her head. We need to get people off furlough and into work, with £2 billion kickstart fund and job retention bonus to encourage employers.
Session: PMQs
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As the Prime Minister obfuscates over his adviser, the real scandal of the coronavirus pandemic has been exposed in the Public Health England report published yesterday on inequality and poverty. If you are black or Asian, if you are poor, if you have a low-skilled job, the mortality risk is up to double that of the rest of the population, with the poorest having the greatest exposure, risk and fate. Now the Government are seriously increasing that exposure and risk with their easement announcements. Why will the Prime Minister not publish a full health and economic risk assessment for scrutiny, to protect us all from this deadly virus?
Context
The question addresses the Prime Minister's response to the Public Health England report on inequalities during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
I thank the hon. Lady for her question. This Government commissioned the review from PHE and we take its findings very seriously, because there obviously are inequalities in the way the virus impacts on different people and different communities in our country. The Minister for Equalities, my hon. Friend the Member for Saffron Walden (Kemi Badenoch) will be looking at what next practical steps we need to do to protect all our country from coronavirus.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Minister meet me and the leader of City of York council? The fair funding formula is not working for our city because it does not use the lower-tier data with regard to the indices of deprivation, meaning that we are the worst-funded local authority. Can we have that meeting?
Context
York is the worst-funded local authority due to the fair funding formula not using the lower-tier data with regard to the indices of deprivation.
Jim McMahon
I am very happy to do so.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-07
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What steps he is taking to support low-income households with increases in energy prices? I thank the Minister for his answer. Preparedness for the sharp increase in domestic energy costs is vital, given that 13.5 million homes are expected to be paying more than 10% of their household's spending on energy this winter and 5.5 million homes more than 20%, leaving families at breaking point. What further steps is he intending to make to expand the warm home discount scheme, take levies off electricity bills to cut costs, and expand social tariffs?
Context
The recent rise in energy bills is concerning for many families, especially those in York Central. The questioner highlights that 13.5 million homes are expected to spend more than 10% of their household income on energy this winter and 5.5 million homes will exceed 20%, leading to financial stress.
Martin McCluskey
We are preparing for every contingency and looking at the support that may be required in the autumn and winter. The significant increase in the warm home discount has obviously benefited households right across the country, not least in my hon. Friend's constituency. The number receiving the warm home discount in York Central has increased from nearly 2,500 to over 8,000, to a value of £1.2 million in support offered to her constituents.
Session: Energy Prices Household Support 2026-07-07
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What steps he is taking to support low-income households with increases in energy prices? I thank the Minister for his answer. Preparedness for the sharp increase in domestic energy costs is vital, given that 13.5 million homes are expected to be paying more than 10% of their household's spending on energy this winter and 5.5 million homes more than 20%, leaving families at breaking point. What further steps is he intending to make to expand the warm home discount scheme, take levies off electricity bills to cut costs, and expand social tariffs?
Context
The recent rise in energy bills is concerning for many families, especially those in York Central. The questioner highlights that 13.5 million homes are expected to spend more than 10% of their household income on energy this winter and 5.5 million homes will exceed 20%, leading to financial stress.
Martin McCluskey
We are preparing for every contingency and looking at the support that may be required in the autumn and winter. The significant increase in the warm home discount has obviously benefited households right across the country, not least in my hon. Friend's constituency. The number receiving the warm home discount in York Central has increased from nearly 2,500 to over 8,000, to a value of £1.2 million in support offered to her constituents.
Session: Energy Prices Household Support 2026-07-07
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When will the Secretary of State introduce laws to protect the creative industries? Will she meet with the APPG and unions to discuss this matter further?
Context
The broadcasting, entertainment and arts unions all-party parliamentary group heard concerning evidence that their work is being scraped by sophisticated AI models for training purposes.
Kanishka Narayan
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that critical question for Britain's creative sector. Just yesterday, on British IP Day, I met with the Alliance for Intellectual Property, including artists, authors, publishers, journalists and media organisations, to talk about how our work on digital replicas and transparency will be critical to supporting the creative sector. I would be delighted to meet my hon. Friend and the APPG.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-01
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Lifting children out of poverty will be this Government's greatest legacy. However, around 4 million children remain in poverty. Last year, the former Prime Minister suggested a £3 billion levy on gambling and betting industries to lift another 500,000 children out of poverty. Will the government ensure we do even more so that we have a greater legacy?
Context
The MP questions the government's child poverty strategy and asks about specific measures to address ongoing issues, referencing a proposal by Gordon Brown.
Diana R. Johnson
The Chancellor's statement on tackling child poverty mentioned reforms in gambling taxation and efforts against fraud, indicating these were considered in policy decisions.
Session: Child Poverty 2026-06-29
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What progress has been made on reducing levels of child poverty? Lifting children out of poverty will be this Government's greatest legacy. However, around 4 million children remain in poverty. Last year, the former Prime Minister suggested a £3 billion levy to lift another 500,000 children out of poverty. Will the government do even more?
Context
The MP notes the government's child poverty strategy and asks about further actions to address ongoing issues. She references a proposal by Gordon Brown for a levy on gambling and betting industries.
Diana R. Johnson
We are taking substantial action through our child poverty strategy, including free school meals expansion and removal of the two-child limit, which could benefit around 1,650 children in York Central. The Chancellor's statement on gambling taxation and tackling fraud supports these measures.
Session: Child Poverty 2026-06-29
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Replacing Healthwatch will mean patients losing confidence in commissioners. Given examples where local healthwatches have successfully brought about change, can the government review clauses 64 and 65 of the Health Bill to maintain Healthwatch's independence?
Context
Healthwatch York has produced reports leading to positive changes, illustrating the importance of independent advocacy.
Karin Smyth
The hon. Friend highlights local healthwatch success stories, but notes that not all approaches work universally and suggests ICBs should determine their roles locally.
Session: Healthwatch
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Will the Minister meet me to discuss over-policing of constituents standing up for nature?
Context
Academics, professionals, and environmentalists have experienced dozens of arrests without charges being upheld.
Sarah Jones
I would be very happy to have a meeting with you to talk about this issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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In October, Nestlé announced 16,000 job losses, including 450 in the UK. In the light of the significant impact that this will have in York, will the Secretary of State ensure that meaningful consultation happens with the trade unions, and will he meet them to save those jobs?
Peter Kyle
Yes, of course I will.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will Ministers ensure that data is gathered before introducing a registration scheme to avoid further damaging the already pressured hospitality sector?
Context
Rural and coastal communities face pressures due to tax rises and regulatory impacts, with concerns over further damage to the hospitality sector if regulations are too heavy-handed.
Matthew Pennycook
Assured of robust, secure, and simple-to-use registration service to minimise impact on businesses as requested.
Session: Short-term Holiday Lets Registration
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What progress has been made on introducing a registration scheme? Will the Minister commit to working with MPs dealing with Airbnb issues and embark on licensing consultation?
Context
The scale of short-term holiday lets in York is causing housing challenges and affecting public services, while residents face antisocial behaviour.
Matthew Pennycook
Will continue to engage with MPs facing short-term let challenges; Government understands the impact of excessive concentrations on housing availability and affordability, considering additional powers for local authorities.
Session: Short-term Holiday Lets Registration
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York aims for modal shifts out of cars and onto buses but faces an affordability problem with the current allocation in the Mayor's transport budget. Will the Minister consider transferring capital funding into revenue?
Context
The MP is ambitious to see modal shifts but faces affordability issues. The mayor has a generous transport budget, but only 6% can be spent on revenue.
Lilian Greenwood
We work closely with all local mayors, including the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire. My hon. Friend had a meeting with him yesterday, and we would be happy to work on how we can better support bus services in that area.
Session: Local Bus Services
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My constituent came to the country at 13 months old. As a teenager, she was taken into care, groomed and exploited in county lines, and is now serving time in prison. Why are this Government deporting her when she has only known this country?
Context
A constituent was exploited in county lines, served time and is now facing deportation.
Alex Norris
The Secretary of State must remove anybody with a sentence over one year. Nevertheless, I will look at the case closely if sent details.
Session: Topical Questions
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I refer to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests. I have met the academics behind the University and College Union reports on the prison education service, which highlighted the real challenges around the wellbeing and mental health of educators, as well as their safety, especially with the racism they have been experiencing. Will my hon. Friend look at carrying out a complete review of the prison education service to ensure it is fit for purpose and able to do the job it was designed for?
Context
Concerns about prison educators' well-being, mental health, and safety, particularly regarding racism.
Jake Richards
Lord Timpson and I are looking at this issue in the round. We are ensuring that where prisons have education contracts, they are being given full effect, which often is not the case. My hon. Friend raises an important point. We are working on it, and we will keep her informed.
Session: Topical Questions
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When will consultations be launched on pubs, hotels, business rates, and high streets? Would the Minister be willing to meet businesses in York to hear why they are struggling?
Context
Property valuations in York are particularly high, making it difficult for businesses. The questioner asks about the timing of consultations on pubs, hotels, business rates, and high streets.
Dan Tomlinson
We will be working across Government on the high streets strategy. Treasury Ministers will be working with colleagues in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department for Business and Trade. We will make progress on that in the coming weeks, with the strategy to report by the end of the year. We are in the process of working on the details of plans for the review of the pubs and hotels valuation methodology.
Session: High Street Businesses Tax Changes
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The York Central 45-hectare development site will be the most powerful outside London. The Government have twice announced that they will have a government hub there. However, the Government Property Agency has not signed that off. The development is going to planning in May. Can the Minister give me an update on when we will hear the good news for York?
Context
The York Central 45-hectare development site is the most significant outside London. The government has previously announced a government hub there, but the Government Property Agency has not signed off on it. The development is going to planning in May.
Darren Jones
The Cabinet Office and Government Departments are in the process of concluding their business planning processes before the start of the new fiscal year, so an update will be available very soon.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the Education Secretary's commitment to inclusion, but many children in York are not in school because of the disciplinary processes run by multi-academy trusts and the culture that ensues. What will she do to ensure that leaders in such trusts are held to account for that?
Context
Many children in York are not in school due to disciplinary processes run by multi-academy trusts and the culture that ensues. There is a need to ensure that leaders in such trusts are held to account.
Georgia Gould
We think it is absolutely essential for all children to have access to an inclusive education. That is why Ofsted is now inspecting inclusion in all schools. As part of the schools White Paper and the special educational needs and disabilities consultation, we have set out new guidance on reasonable adjustments to support schools with that, and we will inspect multi-academy trusts on their decision-making.
Session: Topical Questions
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York Central will create 12,500 new jobs and 3,000 new homes in phase 1, which will be before the planning committee in May. Just 20% is allocated to affordable housing, but there must be an ambition for 40% because York has one of the worst housing affordability disparities in the country. We must reach that target, or our housing crisis will worsen. Will the Minister meet me to discuss York Central and set out what steps he will take with Homes England to ensure that we do not just achieve housing numbers, but meet local need?
Context
The question highlights the disparity between affordable and non-affordable housing in York, aiming for a balanced approach that meets local needs.
Matthew Pennycook
We need to build many more homes of all tenures, but it is absolutely right to stress the importance of delivering a significant uplift in the number of social and affordable homes. I am aware that discussions are ongoing about increasing the proportion of affordable housing within the York Central scheme. I encourage the developer to work with Homes England and relevant registered providers to maximise the potential for social and affordable housing in its first phase. I am more than happy to ensure that my hon. Friend gets an appointment at one of my forthcoming Tea Room surgeries.
Session: New Social and Affordable Housing
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What steps he is taking to help increase the proportion of social and affordable housing in new developments. To honour our commitment to deliver the biggest increase in social and affordable house building in a generation, we have backed registered providers with the biggest social and affordable housing investment in recent memory. Although there is more to do, we have already taken steps to strengthen the existing developer contribution system to ensure that new developments provide necessary affordable homes and infrastructure.
Context
The question addresses the need to increase social and affordable housing within York's ambitious development plans, specifically York Central.
Matthew Pennycook
To honour our commitment to deliver the biggest increase in social and affordable house building in a generation, we have backed registered providers with the biggest social and affordable housing investment in recent memory. Although there is more to do, we have already taken steps to strengthen the existing developer contribution system to ensure that new developments provide necessary affordable homes and infrastructure.
Session: New Social and Affordable Housing
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The Government were making great strides on imprisonment for public protection sentences, yet after my constituent, who was held for nearly two decades, had a minor infringement—he missed an appointment—he ended up back inside. That cannot be right. We need to ensure that people get proper support outside. Will the Government review what happens to IPP prisoners post release?
Context
Ms Maskell raises concerns about a constituent who was re-incarcerated after a minor breach of conditions post-release.
Lammy
I was looking at these issues just yesterday with one of the leading campaigners on IPP. We are making progress with the action plan, but I am happy to arrange a meeting with my hon. Friend and the Prisons Minister to discuss these issues in a bit more detail.
Session: Topical Questions
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When the data is segmented, there is a strong correlation between NHS waiting lists and the number of claimants of personal independence payments. So what steps is the Minister taking to ensure that those people who are unable to work because they are on an NHS waiting list are having their health optimised so that they can engage with employment and be fast-tracked through the system?
Context
There is a strong correlation between NHS waiting lists and the number of personal independence payment (PIP) claimants.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
My hon. Friend will welcome, as I do, the dramatic record fall in waiting lists that has been recently reported, but of course we need to make further progress in reducing waiting lists and we are determined that the assessment for PIP will be fair to everybody. As I have mentioned, the steering group will meet for the first time over two days at the end of this week, and I know that everyone on that group will be focused on ensuring that we can deliver a fair system for those who need it.
Session: PIP Number of Claimants
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The local housing allowance covers just over half of private rents for social tenants in York, as private rents are so extortionate, so will the Government review the broad rental market area, which does not work for our area? It has not been reviewed properly since 2008.
Context
The local housing allowance covers less than half the cost of private rents in York, highlighting affordability issues.
Alison McGovern
I am working closely with my Department for Work and Pensions colleagues, and we know that there are many problems with affordability in the private rented sector. Ministers have mentioned some of the actions we are taking today, but we will be working with the DWP to do more.
Session: Topical Questions
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We know that workers are often unfairly dismissed before the two-year threshold despite the application of the Equality Act 2010. That threshold was one year under the previous Labour Government; we are reducing it again down to six months. However, there is still a risk of disabled workers, ethnic minority workers and young workers being unfairly dismissed. Will the Government monitor the data about workers who have been unfairly dismissed in the first six months to ensure that their protected characteristics are not a feature of their dismissal?
Context
The question arises from concerns that disabled, ethnic minority, and young workers are at risk of being unfairly dismissed before the two-year threshold despite protections under the Equality Act 2010. The previous Labour government had a one-year threshold for unfair dismissal.
The Minister for Equalities (Seema Malhotra)
Data about tribunal cases will continue to be collected in the usual way. We know that disabled people are more likely to be impacted by unfair dismissals. Employees already have day one protections against discrimination, and recent developments in the Employment Rights Bill do not change that protection. This Government are absolutely committed to supporting disabled people to thrive at work, including by introducing disability pay gap reporting and stronger flexible working rights.
Session: Unfair Dismissal Protected Characteristics
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On Friday, I learned of an 81-year-old constituent who had to return to work because of the cost of living in York. Will the Government take a deep dive and carry out an inquiry into poverty in later life, so that we can ensure that we deal with pensioner poverty once and for all?
Torsten Bell
I thank my hon. Friend for her important question. We have seen poverty rates fall less fast among people approaching the state pension age, rather than those over it. We need to look across the range of policy levers to address that, which includes growing the economy so that wages are rising and building houses so that people’s housing costs come down.
Session: Topical Questions
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I met people from my regional adoption agency just last Thursday—I thank them and all their partners for their excellent work—who raised the adoption and special guardianship support fund, recognising that the quantum in resource is not there and that the demand is so high. Will the Minister meet the all-party parliamentary group on adoption and permanence to talk about the future of the fund and work with people who have lived experience to ensure that we get it right in the future?
Context
Regional adoption agency representatives met Rachael Maskell to discuss the adoption and special guardianship support fund, noting insufficient resources and high demand.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Josh MacAlister)
I know that my hon. Friend has been a long-standing campaigner and champion for these issues. When I was doing the independent review of children’s social care, she was a powerful voice advocating for support for adopters, and has continued to be one. I will gladly speak to and meet the all-party parliamentary group.
Session: Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund
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When the last Government allowed the sale of Royal Mail to billionaire Daniel Kretinsky’s company, they maintained a golden share, which I now ask Government to use. Services are less frequent, outsourced workers are handling parcels and postal workers feel devalued, with their traditional Christmas stamps downgraded to second class. Will the Leader of the House ask the Business Secretary to make a statement on Royal Mail, a service that should be renationalised, and ensure that our postal workers get their first-class stamps because they are simply first class?
Context
Royal Mail services have been outsourced, with worker devaluation and Christmas stamps downgraded to second class.
Alan Campbell
I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the work of our postal workers and I join her in paying tribute to the dedication that they show particularly at this time of the year, but also throughout the year. I understand the disappointment that workers will feel at that decision and I will ensure that Ministers hear her concerns.
Session: Business of the House
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Likewise, in York, children and adolescent mental health services are just not working for children, who are left on waiting lists often with no management or treatment. In order really to achieve reorganisation in our NHS, would our Government look at local authorities commissioning mental health services, to deliver such services and to meet the holistic needs of young children’s development and mental health wellbeing?
Context
In York, children and adolescent mental health services are not working well for young people who remain on waiting lists with no management or treatment. The issue of holistic needs of young children's development and mental health wellbeing is raised.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
Again, I echo comments on the state of mental health services, as the hon. Member has done. As it says in our manifesto, we are committed to those 8,500 extra mental health support workers in local areas such as hers. It is important that commissioners work closely with their local authorities on mental health services, and I know my hon. Friend the Minister for Care is ensuring that that happens as part of the reforms we are undertaking.
Session: NHS Reorganisation
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What steps are being taken to help protect creative copyright in light of Daisy May Johnson’s situation where her work has been scraped and reproduced by AI without consent or payment, causing financial loss? Could the Minister outline progress made since the commitment given during the passage of the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 and ensure that legislation addressing this issue will be introduced in the next parliamentary session?
Context
Daisy May Johnson, a children’s book author from York, has had her work scraped and reproduced by generative artificial intelligence without permission or compensation. The issue was raised during discussions on the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Lisa Nandy)
We have been working closely with the creative industries and major tech companies to ensure that our copyright regime remains robust. Progress includes establishing an expert working group focused on these issues; a parliamentary working group will also be set up to gather further input from MPs across constituencies. I can confirm that a statement detailing future plans for copyright framework updates will be delivered to Parliament by the end of this year.
Session: Creative Copyright
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In my kind and inclusive city of York, those who are putting up flags and expressing support for them have been emboldened to perpetrate racism and intimidate communities. They have beaten people up and hung a death threat on our city wall. What further support can the Government give my local authority to enable it to get those flags down, given that even contractors are being intimidated?
Context
Residents in York are intimidated by those expressing support for certain flags, leading to racism and violence.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
The flag is something that we must reclaim, and reclaim proudly. We know that in some communities flags are being used to intimidate and divide, and we are working with local authorities throughout the country to ensure that they have the support that they need to make those judgment calls, but I return to the fact that the flag is ours, we need to reclaim it, and we need to stand up against those who want to divide our communities across the country.
Session: Topical Questions
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Would the Minister be willing to meet the BioYorkshire project, which brings together Fera Science, the University of York, Askham Bryan College and others, to ensure we have the research and the translation and scaling of that to protect the future of farming?
Context
Depletion of soil health, risk of disease, and climate change threaten food security over the long term. The BioYorkshire project brings together Fera Science, University of York, Askham Bryan College, and others to ensure research and translation in biotechnology.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
I assure my hon. Friend that I have had numerous conversations with leading academics in her great city, and I would be happy to have further conversations along those lines.
Session: Climate Change Food Security
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Over the summer, I have been doing a deep dive into children with special educational needs and disabilities, not least the transition points between education and work. As part of the Timms review—the Minister’s own review—will he ensure that that interface is looked at, so that there is a smooth transition for young people, as opposed to the cliff edges that many of them face when making the transition into work?
Context
Rachael Maskell has been investigating the transition points between education and work for children with special educational needs and disabilities, highlighting existing challenges in this area.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
The review will look specifically at the PIP assessment, but one proposal in our Green Paper published earlier this year was increasing the age of transition from DLA to PIP from 16 to 18. I think that that change could assist with the concern expressed by my hon. Friend.
Session: PIP Application Process
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Survive is a York-based charity providing specialist services and trauma-specific interventions to survivors of sexual violence and abuse. However, it has had to close its waiting list because it does not have the capacity to meet the demand. Will the Minister look at providing additional funding, so that we can get those vital services to survivors and victims now and they do not have to wait?
Context
Survive, a York-based charity providing specialist services and trauma-specific interventions to survivors of sexual violence and abuse, has had to close its waiting list due to capacity issues.
Alex Davies-Jones
My hon. Friend has contacted me and written to me on this issue. She will know that we in the Department are looking at the spending allocations following the spending review. However, we have protected and ringfenced special support for sexual violence victims, because we know that there is huge demand coming through the system and we need to keep those victims engaged in the criminal justice system to ensure they get their day in court and justice is served.
Session: Topical Questions
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Evidence shows that integrating policing and health is vital in delivering better outcomes in areas like mental health, substance misuse and youth violence—areas that we need to address in my city of York. With both police and health realigning into neighbourhood teams, will the Home Secretary ensure that there is reach across the services, with a named lead police officer, to develop prevention and early intervention strategies, diverting those at risk through harm reduction approaches, including treatment and support?
Context
The MP has experience in health matters and is concerned about the potential merits of integrating public services for better outcomes.
The Minister for Policing and Crime Prevention (Dame Diana Johnson)
With the recently launched 10-year health plan, we are moving away from those siloed services towards a more joined-up approach, including the preventive model of care. That aligns very much with policing and keeping people safe, and supporting wellbeing. I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the national neighbourhood health implementation programme and to ensure that policing is part of the conversation from the outset. By working more closely with health and care partners, we can reduce inappropriate demand on policing. Officers should not be left to pick up the pieces when other support services are better placed to help. This is about getting it right—and getting that tailored support—first time.
Session: Community Policing and Neighbourhood Health Teams
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What fiscal steps does the Chancellor plan to take to help reduce the number of disabled and sick people in poverty, particularly considering the intersectionality between women, disabled individuals, and other protected characteristics?
Context
In her constituency, three in ten disabled people are living in poverty. The Women’s Budget Group report highlighted that 75% of those losing their personal independence payment and carer's allowance are women.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
Nobody currently receiving personal independence payments will see any reduction in support. The Government have increased the national living wage by 6.7%, introduced the fair repayment rate to lower the cap on deductions for universal credit, and are rolling out more childcare including new nurseries at primary schools. A review of parental leave is being launched which could benefit all working parents, particularly mothers.
Session: Poverty Reduction
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York and North Yorkshire is a national leader in the bioeconomy with BioYorkshire creating 4,000 jobs. The project needs £67 million for facilities but will generate £215 million back into the economy. When will the science plan recognise this impact? Can we have a meeting about the BioYorkshire project?
Context
The Chancellor has announced increases in the R&D budget, which will benefit York constituency. BioYorkshire is a national leader in the bioeconomy set to create 4,000 jobs over a decade.
The Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms (Chris Bryant)
My hon. Friend is right that it is a brilliant project precisely the kind of thing the UK excels at: we manage to get the private sector working with Government and local government to deliver not only jobs but real innovation. As the Secretary of State is not here today, I am sure I can offer my hon. Friend the opportunity of a meeting with him.
Session: Science and Innovation Funding
View All Questions -->
With 800,000 people not going to be in receipt of PIP by 2029-30, we have to be honest in this House. We all know that many of those people are just not able to access the healthcare that they need, such as for mental health, neurodiversity and physical health. As a result, they will not be able to work but they will be pushed into poverty because of these reforms. Will the Secretary of State please, please, please pause these reforms to ensure that those people, who have desperate health needs, are not forced into poverty?
Context
PIP reforms are expected to result in over 800,000 people not receiving the benefit by 2029-30.
Liz Kendall
My hon. Friend will know that this Labour Government are investing billions extra into the NHS precisely so that we can drive down waits for vital operations and increase the number of people getting mental health treatment. It is also the case that good work is good for physical and mental health. There is very clear evidence on that, and that is one of the things we know that we can achieve with the £1 billion extra a year in employment support.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given the sharp rise in diagnosis in York of children with SEND, we have established a SEND-focused family hub. We are also reviewing other services. I am particularly concerned about the culture within schools. We need nurturing and inclusive education, so that we have a therapeutic learning environment. Will the Minister say what she is doing to ensure that schools, local authorities and others can feed into the White Paper to share best practice and raise concerns?
Context
In York, there has been a sharp rise in diagnosis of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). A SEND-focused family hub has been established to address this issue.
The Minister for School Standards (Catherine McKinnell)
I know that my hon. Friend cares very deeply about this issue. I can reassure her that we are actively collaborating with sector parents and experts on how we drive forward our SEND reforms. That includes working closely with Dame Christine Lenehan, our strategic adviser on SEND, and Tom Rees, who leads the expert advisory group on inclusion. Changes we make will focus on improving support for children and parents, ending that fight for support, and protecting existing provision. We are listening very closely as we develop the plans.
Session: SEND Strategy
View All Questions -->
This is not an issue on which to make a party political point. The reality is that a 40% cut to the adoption and special guardianship support fund will be deeply impactful for young people who have experienced significant trauma—abuse, neglect and so much more. Given that our mental health services are not fit for purpose at the moment, it is imperative that we make the right investment so that those young people are not denied a life course opportunity if that fund is cut. Will the Minister review the decision and ensure that we have the proper funding that young people need?
Context
The MP notes that a 40% cut to the adoption and special guardianship support fund will be deeply impactful for young people who have experienced significant trauma.
James Murray (Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury)
As my hon. Friend will know, spending decisions are for the Chief Secretary of the Treasury to discuss with Departments. I make the general point that investment in mental health, for instance, which she mentioned, is possible only because of the decisions we have taken on taxation to ensure that we can support public spending on mental health services and on support for young people.
Session: Vulnerable Families Tax System Support
View All Questions -->
In my local authority, adult social care is deeply concerned over additional costs and moving people into dependency as their independence diminishes with PIP changes. What assessments has been done on these impacts? Can figures be provided?
Context
The hon. Member raises concerns about the implications for public services like adult social care due to proposed changes in personal independence payments.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Liz Kendall)
Our objective is to give disabled people more independence by ensuring those who can work receive support. We have evidence that employment benefits health. Extra social care funding includes £3.7 million this year, on top of the £26 billion increase for NHS. I would be happy to meet my hon. Friend further discuss these issues.
Session: Personal Independence Payment Assessment Review
View All Questions -->
Over half of UK universities, including the University of York, are again consulting on academic and staff redundancies. In line with the University and College Union’s “Stop the Cuts” week of action, does the Minister agree that we need an urgent review into higher education funding and visa arrangements for international students and their dependants, and that we need to protect students from poverty, to safeguard our world-class universities and, ultimately, drive research, innovation and their economic output?
Context
Over half of UK universities are consulting on academic and staff redundancies, including the University of York. The University and College Union is calling for a review into higher education funding and visa arrangements for international students.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Janet Daby)
We are committed to securing the future of our higher education sector and we absolutely recognise its excellent economic value, which is crucial to our future economic growth. We welcome international students, who enrich our campuses, forge networks with domestic students and become global ambassadors. We will set out our plan for reform in the summer.
Session: Higher Education Funding
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Winter Fuel Payment
10 September 2024
Responding: Emma Reynolds
Main Concerns
['Charities, medics, academics and economists have highlighted the impact of fuel poverty on pensioners. With housing costs, food prices, and energy costs rising, 2.1 million pensioners are in poverty. The average bill is £1,717 but older people pay more due to inefficient homes. Pension increases do not cover cost-of-living rises, leading to a risk of excess winter deaths as seen under the previous government.']
Specific Asks
['The Government must mitigate the effects on pensioners this winter by providing an assurance that help is available for those in fuel poverty. The Minister should provide more information on what measures are being considered and when they will be implemented to ensure people have the support needed, including a social tariff or social prescribing.']
Future of Rail — [Sir Charles Walker in the Chair]
26 April 2022
Responding: Wendy Morton
Main Concerns
["Rachael Maskell is concerned about the challenges facing rail post-pandemic, including restoring and advancing patronage, improving timetabling, intermodal connectivity, and addressing issues in freight. She highlights York's role as a railway hub with over 100 rail companies providing over 5,500 jobs locally and 9,500 jobs regionally, contributing £42 billion to the northern economy. The city is home to advanced research institutes and facilities that set global standards in safety and robotics."]
Specific Asks
["Maskell calls for investment in York's rail cluster to level up the local economy and ensure job security and good wages. She urges the Government to anchor Great British Railways in York, invest in the sector's R&D, and prioritise a modal shift from road to rail for freight."]
Childhood Cancer Research And Support Funding
07 December 2020
Main Concerns
["The lead MP highlighted the issue of childhood cancer as the leading cause of death for children in the UK, with approximately 1,900 cases diagnosed each year. She emphasized the lack of research and support available to families dealing with this diagnosis, citing Dr Jen Kelly's personal story about her daughter Grace who died at four years old from a rare form of childhood cancer. The MP also pointed out that Cancer Research UK has had to cut its budget by £44 million due to the impact of covid-19 on fundraising."]
Specific Asks
['The lead MP called for the establishment of a life sciences-charity partnership fund and urged the Minister to ensure opportunities for continued research collaboration with European countries post-Brexit, particularly through Horizon research funding. She also asked the Minister what actions would be taken during UK Charity Week to address these issues.']
Summer Health and Resilience
09 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Economic Growth
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Criminal Justice Reform
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
UK-Switzerland Enhanced Free Trade Agreement
14 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
State of Climate and Nature
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Department of Health and Social Care
30 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate highlights the lack of transparency in the NHS estimates and the impact of the UK-US pharmaceutical deal, which includes raising NICE cost-effectiveness thresholds from £20,000 to £35,000 p...
Asylum Accommodation
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Transport (Scotland) Bill - Schedule 4 - Minor and Consequential amendments
10 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to make minor and consequential changes to the bill, ensuring consistency in the provisions. It includes technical adjustments to align with existing regulations and improve clarit...
Middle East
09 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Two-Child Benefit Cap
14 January 2026
The petition addresses the Two Child Benefit Cap, which restricts families with three or more children born after April 2017 from receiving benefits for additional children unless they prove that furt...
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Two-child benefit cap
25 November 2025
The petition addresses the hardship caused by the two-child benefit cap, which restricts benefits for additional children beyond the first two unless they are conceived through rape, leading to increa...
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UK Government relations with Israel
15 October 2025
The petitioners declare that a genocide is occurring in Palestine and are calling for the UK Government to take immediate action.
View Full Petition -->
UK Government Relations with Israel
22 July 2025
The petition addresses the ongoing genocide against Palestinians and calls for immediate action from the UK Government to address human rights violations, particularly those affecting civilians includ...
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Geothermal Energy
06 March 2025
The potential for deep geothermal energy in the UK as a clean, secure power source and heat provider was discussed in Parliament, with emphasis on its ability to support job creation and reduce relian...
View Full Petition -->
CCTV cameras along river banks in city centres
16 October 2024
The petition concerns the installation of CCTV cameras and improved lighting along river banks in city centres to prevent fatalities and assist in locating missing persons.
View Full Petition -->
Dental Health Care
30 July 2024
The petition addresses a significant NHS dental crisis in York, where less than 40% of adults have accessed NHS dentistry in the past two years, leading residents to call for a new approach focusing o...
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Recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry
20 March 2024
The petition addresses the long-standing issue of compensation for individuals who received infected blood and have suffered as a result, along with their families, who are calling for prompt action b...
View Full Petition -->
Petition
22 June 2023
The petition addresses the upcoming closure of York’s third largest dental practice, which will impact 6,200 patients including 4,200 NHS patients, exacerbating an already severe waiting list problem ...
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PETITION
19 April 2023
The petition calls for the inclusion of life skills education in secondary schools, specifically focusing on budgeting, loans management, taxation, and job preparation.
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
86.7%
85 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
32
32.7% of votes
No Votes
53
54.1% of votes
Abstentions
13
13.3% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
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
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
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 Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
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: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
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: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
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
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
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: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
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: 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
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
11
PMQs Asked
257
Ministerial Questions Asked
452
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
12
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+200% above average
This MP:
11
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+1817% above average
This MP:
257
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+9201% above average
This MP:
452
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+389% above average
This MP:
12
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+25% above average
This MP:
86.7
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Rachael Maskell's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.