Rachel Taylor
MP for North Warwickshire and Bedworth
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Thousands of British jobs have been safeguarded by this Government’s trade agreement with the US, including for those in my constituency who work for Jaguar Land Rover. Can the Prime Minister confirm that he will continue to stand up for all workers and our vital motor manufacturing industry as he negotiates a better deal for Britain around the world?
Context
The UK Government's trade agreement with the US has safeguarded thousands of British jobs, including those in Jaguar Land Rover. Labour opposition criticises these deals.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for her work with JLR and for standing up for the jobs in her constituency. The deal that we have agreed saves thousands of jobs in our car industry, securing the livelihoods of countless families. I will continue to stand up for these workers and industries as I negotiate better deals for Britain around the world.
Session: PMQs
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Rachel Taylor expressed shock and horror over a lack of GP appointments for elderly residents, blaming the Conservative party's neglect for 14 years. She highlighted how this situation is unacceptable and damaging to patients.
Context
An elderly resident in Bedworth, Kolin Basra, tried to make an appointment for his wife at the GP surgery but was told that no appointments would be available for three months.
The Prime Minister
The Prime Minister thanked Rachel Taylor for raising the issue, agreeing it was right to highlight the damage caused by the Conservatives. He stated they were taking steps to increase available GP appointments, reduce waiting lists, and invest in the NHS as part of efforts to clear up previous neglect.
Session: PMQs
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The questioner asks what specific steps the Cabinet Office is taking to ensure that the Government's new procurement rules translate into more jobs, apprenticeships, and opportunities for young people in rural communities.
Context
Young people in the MP's constituency face challenges in getting their foot on the career ladder. The new procurement rules aim to create more jobs, apprenticeships, and opportunities.
Louise Haigh
The Government is asking Alan Milburn to push forward the agenda for young people not in employment, education, or training. Local social value schemes will provide education, employment, and training for young people.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-10
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Around the world, countries such as Seychelles are leading the way in decriminalising same-sex acts, while others, such as Ghana, are passing appalling new laws that attack the LGBT+ community simply for being who they are. Can the Minister assure the House that the UK is doing all it can to work with like-minded countries around the world to advance equality and protect the fundamental rights of LGBT+ people?
Context
Countries like Seychelles are leading the way in decriminalising same-sex acts, while others like Ghana are passing new laws that discriminate against the LGBTQ community.
Chris Elmore
My hon. Friend is absolutely right to raise this issue, and I was pleased to confirm to the House back in May the £21 million fund over three years to advance LGBTQ rights internationally. This Government will always support the international rights of LGBT people for evermore.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-01
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Will the Minister meet me and those in the freight and logistics sector to find solutions?
Context
Road haulage companies in the constituency are reporting huge delays due to EES.
Keir Mather
I would be glad to meet my hon. Friend and representatives from the freight sector. We want to ensure that we get this right, so I would be glad to meet her to discuss this subject.
Session: EU Entry-Exit System Transport Delays 2026-07-16
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I am concerned about the long waits for endometriosis diagnosis and the impact on women's health in my constituency. What plans do the Government have to reduce diagnosis times, provide better training for GPs, and improve access to specialist care?
Context
The average wait for an endometriosis diagnosis exceeds nine years, often due to women being dismissed when reporting painful periods. Insha from North Warwickshire faced a decade-long wait before receiving specialist surgery.
Sharon Hodgson
Women have been dismissed for far too long, and that must change. The renewed women's health strategy commits to redesigning clinical pathways for heavy periods and pelvic pain in order to reduce repeat appointments, unnecessary referrals and long waits. Menstrual problems, including endometriosis, will be prioritised through NHS Online in 2027.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-14
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Nigerian illegal immigrant Gift Oladele was recently jailed for the brutal rape of a teenage girl. He had previous violent sexual offences and the Home Office tried to deport him, yet an immigration judge allowed him to stay due to human rights considerations. I believe protecting women's rights is more important than foreign rapists staying here. Is it time to leave the European convention on human rights so all criminals like Oladele can be deported?
Context
The MP inquired about the case of Gift Oladele, a Nigerian immigrant who committed multiple violent sexual offences and was allowed to stay due to human rights considerations. He requested leaving the European Convention on Human Rights.
Alex Norris
Let me start by saying that I agree that this is a truly awful case. It shows how important it is that we remove people who commit crimes, and we have removed nearly 8,000 foreign offenders since we came into office. But leaving the ECHR would undermine our returns agreements with countries around the world. Instead, our contention is to narrow the domestic interpretation of article 8 through legislation.
Session: Illegal Migration
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What steps her Department is taking to help reduce levels of illegal migration. My constituents will strongly welcome the most recent data showing that small boat arrivals are massively down this year, but can the Minister confirm that this important progress is just the beginning of restoring order and control at our borders?
Context
The MP asked about steps to reduce illegal immigration, referencing recent small boat arrivals data.
Alex Norris
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for her question. When I visited her community, I heard in no uncertain terms on the doorstep how important this issue is to people, as it is for my community and the rest of the country. That is why we are stepping up the international action we have taken, including the important new deal with France. Domestically, we will be legislating through our immigration and asylum Bill to create the system that I know her constituents want, which is a fair but firm one.
Session: Illegal Migration
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Can she reassure me that such an obvious licence for bigotry and discrimination will not be included in the final guidance when you publish it next month?
Context
Leaked guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission suggested that it would be lawful for transgender individuals to be excluded from changing facilities based on appearance.
Bridget Phillipson
I thank my hon. Friend for her important question. She will appreciate, I am sure, that I cannot comment on the draft code of practice, but I want to reassure the House that trans people will continue to be protected from discrimination under the Equality Act. We will not treat this issue as a political football, as many others have done in the past.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Minister reassure me that a Bill will come to the House early in the next Session, and that we will not be waiting any longer for these cruel and inhumane practices to be outlawed for good?
Context
The upcoming King's Speech marks eight years since a ban on so-called conversion therapy was first promised.
Olivia Bailey
The Government will deliver its manifesto commitment to a trans-inclusive ban on conversion practices. Draft legislation is being prepared urgently and there have been successive promises from previous Governments.
Session: Conversion Practices
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What steps she is taking to ban conversion practices. Conversion practices tell people that their identity is wrong, that it can be changed, and that they should be subjected to physical and emotional abuse to change it.
Context
No specific background provided.
Olivia Bailey
Conversion practices are abusive, abhorrent, and the Government will outlaw them as soon as possible. The steps include working on legislation urgently and publishing draft legislation.
Session: Conversion Practices
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Happy Warwickshire day and St George's day. My constituent Jillian retired after 34 years of service but faces ongoing delays in receiving a £2,000 pension lump sum due to Capita's poor service. She has exhausted all contact methods without success. What support is the Government providing to civil servants left in limbo by Capita?
Context
A constituent, Jillian, dedicated her life to public service before retiring. She is owed a lump sum from her pension but has encountered numerous issues in accessing it.
Satvir Kaur
I wish my hon. Friend a happy Warwickshire day and St George's day. I agree that service received by Jillian is unacceptable. We have deployed a surge team to stabilise the pension service, continue holding Capita accountable, and hardship loans are available for impacted members. If sent details of Jillian's case, I will look into it.
Session: Civil Service Pension Scheme
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Despite an additional £6.7 million being provided to Reform-led Warwickshire county council, the condition of roads across North Warwickshire remains an absolute disgrace. Potholes are the No. 1 concern for many drivers in my constituency. Our high streets, rural roads and main roads are littered with potholes. Does the Minister agree that Warwickshire county council must do more with this funding and take urgent action to fix our roads before many more women are left alone, waiting for recovery on rural roads late at night?
Context
Despite additional funding for road maintenance, the condition of roads in North Warwickshire remains poor with high levels of potholes.
Heidi Alexander
I see that Reform Members care so much about the state of our roads that they cannot even be bothered to turn up to Transport questions.
Session: Road Maintenance Funding
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As a practising solicitor for more than 20 years, I am aware of the rules and professional guidance on conflicts of interest. Does the Solicitor General agree that the shadow Attorney General recusing himself from giving legal advice to the Leader of the Opposition because he would rather profit from advising Abramovich demonstrates where the priorities lie for this Conservative party when it comes to backing the Government on economic sanctions in defence of Ukraine and our national security?
Context
The question follows an assessment on the Crown Prosecution Service’s serious economic, organised crime and international directorate's work. Rachel Taylor references a conflict of interest involving the shadow Attorney General advising Roman Abramovich.
The Solicitor General
It is utterly indefensible that the shadow Attorney General in the other place is acting as a lawyer for sanctioned Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. He has recused himself from giving legal advice to the Conservative party on the issue of Ukraine and financial sanctions, sacrificing a key element of his role in order to work against our national interests. The Government are putting national security at the heart of every decision and stands in staunch solidarity with Ukraine.
Session: CPS Serious Economic, Organised Crime and International Directorate
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Affinity Water and Severn Trent are opening their consultation next week on the Grand Union canal transfer scheme. The project will see 53 megalitres of treated water a day pumped into the canal in Atherstone in my constituency to be extracted in the south-east. Residents in Atherstone are concerned about the noise, damage to the environment and disruption that the scheme could create. Can the Minister reassure my constituents that she will work with the water companies involved to ensure that disruption is minimal and the treated water is safe, and will she meet my constituents to hear their concerns?
Context
The MP notes concerns from constituents about the Grand Union canal transfer scheme, which involves Affinity Water and Severn Trent pumping treated water into Atherstone in her constituency. Residents worry about noise, environmental damage, and disruption.
The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Emma Reynolds)
The Grand Union canal transfer scheme will strengthen the nation’s long-term water resilience and water security. I have listened carefully to what my hon. Friend said about her constituents’ concerns, and either myself or the Water Minister will be very happy to meet her to discuss them further.
Session: Water Infrastructure Inspections
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In North Warwickshire and Bedworth, many, like Felicitas in Water Orton, have welcomed Ukrainian refugees into their homes and have stood by Ukraine, just as this Labour Government have. Meanwhile, Reform-led Warwickshire county council has removed the Ukrainian flag from county hall despite public protest. Given the ever-growing threats of Russian aggression, what steps is the UK taking to strengthen its anti-submarine warfare capabilities?
Context
Mrs Taylor mentions that her constituents have welcomed Ukrainian refugees into their homes, while a local council removed the Ukrainian flag from county hall.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
My hon. Friend is right that politicians of any party are judged on what we do, not just what we say, and the performance of Reform-led councils will certainly come home to roost, I suggest, for their party. But my hon. Friend is right: in this new era of Russian threat, we must ensure that our Royal Navy has the innovation it needs to detect, to track and to deter threats beneath the waves, and so today we have announced a new £40 million contract with a British-based SME to buy new sonobuoys, exactly to be deployed and used beneath the waves to track Putin’s subs.
Session: Ukraine
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The latest interest rate cut—the sixth since Labour formed this Government—is great news for mortgage holders in Wales, North Warwickshire and Bedworth and across the UK, bringing down the cost of family mortgages by almost £1,400 a year. Will the Secretary of State update the House on how this Government’s policies are helping to strengthen our economy and improve the cost of living as a result?
Context
The latest interest rate cut is beneficial for mortgage holders, reducing annual costs by £1,400.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right; this Government are supporting people across Wales and the UK with the cost of living. In comparison with when we came into government, households that take out a new mortgage are saving around £1,400 a year on their mortgage repayments. We have also increased the state pension by 4.8%, which will take effect in April, benefiting 700,000 pensioners across Wales. We have also uprated the universal credit standard allowance by over 6%—the first ever permanent real-terms increase—benefiting 320,000 households in Wales.
Session: Cost of Living Wales
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Financial mismanagement by the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership trust has led to disputes with the National Education Union and, currently, strikes, which is disrupting the learning of students across the west midlands, including at the Coleshill school and Curdworth primary school in my constituency. What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that academy trusts are well managed and build positive relationships with staff so that students and parents do not have to endure this disruption again?
Context
The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership trust has faced financial mismanagement, leading to disputes with the National Education Union and strikes in schools across the west midlands. This disruption affects students at Coleshill school and Curdworth primary school in Rachel Taylor's constituency.
The Minister for School Standards (Georgia Gould)
I thank my hon. Friend and other colleagues who came to see me a few weeks ago about this issue and the impact it is having on their communities. We continue to work with the trust. The work of multi-academy trusts is crucial for children, families and school staff, and it is right that they are subject to transparent accountability. We are delivering our manifesto commitment by legislating to introduce Ofsted inspections of academy trusts and related intervention powers for the Secretary of State, which will support strong governance across the sector, ensuring that the interests of children always come first.
Session: Academy Trusts Governance
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In visiting Boultbees farm in Baxterley, I saw how farmers like Andrew are obligated to sell their sugar beet to British Sugar, the sole processor in the UK. Despite common market organisation regulation for fair negotiations on price, British Sugar has sought to circumvent it. What measures are being taken by the government to strengthen protections for farmers such as Andrew and ensure a fair deal in the combinable crops sector?
Context
Rachel Taylor visited Boultbees farm in Baxterley, North Warwickshire where she met Andrew and his team who grow sugar beet. They sell the product to British Sugar as it is the only processor of UK sugar beet.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Dame Angela Eagle)
We are committed to promoting fairness across the food supply chain, including achieving a fair price for sugar beet that benefits both growers and processors. There is an established independent process in place to agree on the sugar beet price. We continue to review this process and the regulatory framework. The Government has also launched a public consultation on fairness and transparency in the combinable crops supply chain, which is open for eight weeks, encouraging all interested parties to engage and share their views.
Session: Sugar Beet Contracts
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I got the chance to do some essential Christmas shopping on small business Saturday last week. I bought cakes from Gayton’s and a wreath from the Flower House, and I managed to get in my Christmas turkey order at Bates in Atherstone. Can the Minister tell us what extra support he will provide to small retail businesses in North Warwickshire and Bedworth and across the country?
Context
The MP conducted essential Christmas shopping on Small Business Saturday, highlighting the importance of local support for small retailers.
Blair McDougall
I, too, enjoyed small business Saturday; I got to return to Beveridge fishmongers in Giffnock in my constituency, where I used to work. According to Small Business Britain, the boost given by small business Saturday has been the biggest in six years, so there is real room for optimism for small businesses as we go into the new year. Through the small business strategy, increasing access to finance, cutting red tape and ensuring that we tackle late payments, we will support small businesses in my hon. Friend’s constituency and across the UK.
Session: Topical Questions
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To support transport operators in North Warwickshire and Bedworth, what discussions has the Minister had with EU counterparts on securing a professional driver exemption from the 90/180-day Schengen travel restrictions for UK drivers of heavy goods vehicles and coaches?
Context
The question pertains to securing a professional driver exemption from the 90/180-day Schengen travel restrictions for UK drivers of heavy goods vehicles and coaches. This is an issue affecting transport operators in North Warwickshire and Bedworth.
Chris Ward
I recognise the importance of this issue to my hon. Friend’s constituents. Amendments to Schengen rules are predominantly a matter for member states, but the Minister for the Cabinet Office has regular discussions with his counterparts in the EU, and I will ensure that he is aware of those concerns.
Session: Topical Questions
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What action is the Minister taking with the UK’s partners overseas to tackle this growing threat of cyber-attacks and ransomware, both domestically and internationally?
Context
The MP highlighted the recent cyber-attack on Jaguar Land Rover, putting jobs in her constituency at risk.
Stephen Doughty (Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
My hon. Friend raises a crucial issue. We are working closely with international partners, including as a founding member of the Counter Ransomware Initiative that led to supply chain resilience guidance endorsed by 67 countries. We are also engaged through the United Nations and other bodies.
Session: Cyber-attacks Global Response
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Last year, over 1,000 former mineworkers in North Warwickshire and Bedworth benefited from this Government’s historic decision to release the surplus from the mineworkers’ pension scheme. Now, members of the British Coal staff superannuation scheme, such as my constituents Ray Sweet, Don Jennings and Andy Callow, are seeking that same justice. Could the Minister reassure my constituent and others like her that the Government are doing everything they can?
Context
Members of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme are seeking justice similar to that received by former mineworkers under the mineworkers' pension scheme. Constituents like Ray Sweet, Don Jennings and Andy Callow have benefited from previous government actions but now seek additional support.
The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)
I pay tribute to all those who toiled in our coalmines for a very long time—we owe them a great debt. As the Prime Minister said in the House on 12 November, the Government remain committed to agreeing a way forward with the trustees that will benefit scheme members. We will make an announcement on this issue in due course.
Session: Topical Questions
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What support will the Minister provide to upgrade car parking facilities at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, given the current stress and lack of provision?
Context
University hospital Coventry and Warwickshire suffers from poor car parking facilities, causing additional stress for patients with mobility issues or suffering strokes or heart attacks.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
I recognise the stress caused by trying to get patients to hospital, particularly if they have mobility problems. I commend hospitals with good active travel plans and suggest hearing more from the trust about provision for constituents.
Session: NHS Hospitals Parking
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I am proud of how this Labour Government have delivered to provide working families with 15 hours of Government-funded childcare and funding for new school-based nurseries, including at Keresley Newland primary academy in Bedworth. Can she outline the role that school-based nurseries will play in ramping up to the 30 hours of Government-funded childcare this September?
Context
The Conservative party's childcare pledge lacked a clear plan, whereas the Labour Government are delivering on promises to provide working families with 15 hours of government-funded childcare. Keresley Newland primary academy is part of this initiative.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
I will certainly do my best to visit Keresley Newland, and I am delighted that it is taking part in our school-based nurseries programme. We are determined to make sure that every child gets the best start in life. We know that the early years are crucial, and that is why we have set an ambitious target of making sure that a record number of children at the end of the early years foundation stage are ready for the next step on their journey through the school system.
Session: School-based Nurseries
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I have launched a petition in my constituency asking Warwickshire county council to take our buses back under public control. Almost 30% of buses do not run on time, and my constituents are sick and tired of being stranded if they do not have a car. Does the Minister agree that Warwickshire county council must do the right thing and improve the dismal service that my constituents are currently stuck with?
Context
The petition launched by the Member of Parliament calls for the buses to be taken back under public control due to poor punctuality and service unreliability.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
We know that too often local bus services are late or, worse, do not turn up at all, blocking passengers from accessing vital services. Our reforms to the bus sector, combined with that £1 billion investment in buses, will give local leaders the tools they need to ensure that services truly reflect the needs of passengers.
Session: Topical Questions
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Labour-led Nuneaton and Bedworth borough council has bucked the national trend in fly-tipping with a reduction in the borough of more than 10%, while total reported incidents have fallen by 200 on the previous year. Meanwhile, neighbouring Conservative-led North Warwickshire borough council served only one fixed penalty notice in the year 2023-24. Does my hon. Friend agree that the actions taken by Nuneaton and Bedworth borough council demonstrate that councils can reduce fly-tipping incidents, and that North Warwickshire must do more to stop the scourge of fly-tipping on our country roads?
Context
Nuneaton and Bedworth borough council has reduced fly-tipping incidents by more than 10%, while North Warwickshire borough council served only one fixed penalty notice in the year 2023-24.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Mary Creagh)
I have travelled along those country roads near Coventry many times. My hon. Friend is right: this is a political choice that councils can make. I urge people in the upcoming elections on 1 May to vote for more Labour county councillors, who will take this scourge seriously.
Session: Topical Questions
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Around 3,000 constituents in North Warwickshire and Bedworth work in the automotive sector, including small and medium-sized businesses providing engineering and manufacturing services as well as Jaguar Land Rover's battery assembly centre. A career in automotive should attract young people locally. What steps is the Minister taking to support workforce upskilling and apprenticeship schemes to prevent skills gaps relying on immigration?
Context
The MP is concerned about the economic impact of the automotive sector in her constituency. The Minister previously discussed £2 billion funding for zero emission vehicle manufacturing.
The Minister for Industry (Sarah Jones)
There is ongoing work across various departments to address skills shortages, including collaboration with Skills England. The automotive sector has exemplary apprenticeship schemes that other industries can emulate. Regular meetings are held between DfE, Home Office, and DWP to ensure strategies encourage people into well-paid jobs.
Session: Support for the Automotive Industry
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Under the last Government, my constituents had completely lost faith that foreign national offenders with no right to remain in this country would be swiftly removed. I am glad that, since the last election, our new Labour Government have enforced the return of over 2,500 foreign criminals, including serious and violent offenders—a 23% increase since last year. Can the Minister reassure my constituents that this Government will not be taking their foot off the gas and will continue taking strong action?
Context
The MP expresses satisfaction with the new Labour Government's enforcement of the return of over 2,500 foreign criminals since the last election.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Yvette Cooper)
Immigration asylum rules need to be respected and enforced, with 16,400 individuals successfully returned in the first six months of this Government—the highest level of returns over a six-month period since 2018. We will continue to ramp up removals for those who have no right to be in the UK.
Session: Topical Questions
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Two of my friends, Ruth and Janet, are wheelchair users—one of them as a result of an accident just outside this place 25 years ago. They cannot travel together on our buses, as there is only ever one wheelchair space. They often book assistance at train stations, only for it not to turn up, leaving them stranded. Their handling on planes has led to not only bruising and pain, but loss of dignity and sometimes missed flights when assistance does not come in time. They are now reluctant to go on holiday if it means flying. Will the Secretary of State meet them and set up consultations with disabled passengers up and down the country, so that our public transport can meet their needs in every region? Will she require local authorities taking over bus services to consult disabled passengers and set minimum standards for delivery?
Context
Two friends of the MP, Ruth and Janet, who are wheelchair users, face difficulties in using buses due to a lack of space and train stations often failing to provide assistance when booked. Their handling on planes has also caused pain and missed flights.
Simon Lightwood
We want a transport system for everyone, in which accessibility is designed as standard across the network so that we can make it easier for people to get on and off services, and build a safe and more secure network, particularly for women and girls. It is the Government’s ambition for disabled people to have equal access to transport, recognising the needs of people with visible and less visible conditions, and I would be more than happy to meet my hon. Friend.
Session: Public Transport Accessibility
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Mr Speaker, I wish you and your team a very merry Christmas, and I thank you for all your support over the last six months. I welcome my hon. Friend the Solicitor General to her position. Businesses in my constituency report that freight crime has reached unacceptable levels, harming their operations and driver welfare. Yet organised gangs stealing goods from freight vehicles are treated as if it were a simple theft of personal property. As Solicitor General, what steps will you take to ensure that freight theft is prosecuted appropriately?
Context
The MP has expressed concern about the increasing incidents of freight crime in her constituency, impacting businesses negatively. She notes that despite this, the classification and prosecution of such crimes do not reflect their severity.
Lucy Rigby
I am aware of my hon. Friend's expertise and effective advocacy on behalf of her constituents in North Warwickshire and Bedworth. Freight crime is indeed a significant threat, and we are cooperating closely with police forces, the automotive industry, and the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service to tackle this issue effectively. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) recognises the prevalence of freight theft and works diligently to ensure that there are adequate resources and expertise in place to respond robustly to new and evolving areas of organised crime such as freight theft.
Session: Freight Crime
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I have been listening to businesses across my North Warwickshire and Bedworth constituency where they report that freight crime is at unacceptable levels, damaging their businesses and affecting driver welfare. Organised gangs steal goods from freight vehicles, yet this crime is treated similarly to someone breaking into a car for personal items. What specific steps will you take as Solicitor General to ensure that freight theft is prosecuted as the serious crime it truly is?
Context
The MP is concerned about the increasing levels of freight crime in her constituency, which has become a significant issue for businesses and drivers. She notes that organised gangs are involved in stealing goods from freight vehicles but these crimes are not treated with the seriousness they deserve.
Lucy Rigby
I know my hon. Friend has considerable knowledge in this area, which she raises effectively for her constituents. The Government are collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies, automotive industries, and the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service to tackle freight crime seriously. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is aware of the prevalence of freight theft and is working diligently to ensure that there are sufficient resources and expertise to combat this form of organised crime effectively.
Session: Freight Crime
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I am very pleased to hear the Minister's reply. The last Government wasted local authorities' time and money by making them bid for handouts from central Government. In North Warwickshire, so much time was spent preparing numerous bids for the new swimming pool and leisure centre that our community desperately needed, only for vital funds to go to places without such high levels of need.
Context
The MP is concerned about the wasteful nature of previous government's approach to allocating local growth funds, highlighting North Warwickshire as an example.
Alex Norris
My hon. Friend makes an important point about the harm done by that “beauty parade” funding model, which was inefficient and created so much disappointment.
Session: Local Growth Funding Allocation
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I also pay tribute to Lord Prescott. Nearly 20% of my constituents work in the vital freight and logistics sector, yet they continue to pick up the bill for road repairs due to potholes. Now that a £500 million increase is available for fixing potholes, does the Secretary of State agree that the council must take action to tackle these potholes causing damage to my constituents' vehicles?
Context
The MP noted that nearly 20% of her constituents work in the freight and logistics sector, which continues to bear the brunt of road repairs due to poor conditions caused by potholes.
Louise Haigh
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Local authorities are responsible for the state of their local roads, but with this significant uplift for '25-26, we expect them to ensure that that is a priority, and to tackle the state of the local roads, which is affecting my hon. Friend's constituents so badly.
Session: Condition of Local Roads
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I am concerned about the adequacy of the condition of local roads and its impact on the essential work of my constituents in the freight and logistics sector who suffer from pothole-riddled roads, causing damage to their vehicles. With a £500 million increase provided by the Government for road repairs, what specific action will Warwickshire county council take to address this issue?
Context
The MP highlighted a significant issue with the state of local roads, affecting road users daily. She noted that nearly 20% of her constituents work in vital freight and logistics sectors.
Louise Haigh
Local authorities are responsible for the state of their local roads, but with this significant uplift for '25-26, we expect them to ensure that that is a priority, and to tackle the state of the local roads, which is affecting my hon. Friend's constituents so badly.
Session: Condition of Local Roads
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Does the Minister agree that more must be done by the council to prosecute incidents of fly-tipping? The Member for North Warwickshire and Bedworth mentioned a low rate of fixed penalty notices and prosecutions despite high fly-tipping cases in her constituency, imposing costs on local businesses and farmers.
Context
The MP highlighted that only one fixed penalty notice was issued out of 912 fly-tipping incidents recorded by the local council, costing farmers heavily.
Mary Creagh
One fixed penalty notice is inadequate for the scale of the problem; low rates mean it's a consequence-free crime. The Minister hopes her council will work with them to improve its record.
Session: Fly-tipping
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What steps will the Secretary of State take to ensure that the legacy of Sir Andy Murray is recognised in Scotland?
Context
Sport has played a significant role in economic growth, particularly focusing on the legacy of Sir Andy Murray.
Ian Murray
I would like to announce to the House that Andy Murray and I are not related, despite the fact that we share the same physique [Laughter.] I assure the House that the Scotland Office and this Government will do all we can to ensure that the wonderful legacy of one of Britain's best sportspeople of all time is maintained.
Session: Economic Growth
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Monthly mortgage costs rose by an average of 22% for families in North Warwickshire and Bedworth. What steps is the Chancellor taking to ensure such a situation cannot happen again?
Context
The MP highlighted the impact of rising monthly mortgage costs by an average of 22% in her constituency following the previous Government's actions.
James Murray
Our new Government will hardwire Budget responsibility into Government with our new fiscal lock in the Budget Responsibility Bill, which will make sure that the disaster we saw nearly two years ago can never happen again.
Session: Living Standards
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What steps she plans to take to help improve living standards. In North Warwickshire and Bedworth, monthly mortgage costs rose by an average of 22% in the year following the previous Government's disastrous mini-Budget, making life really difficult for hard-working families.
Context
The MP raised concerns about the impact of rising mortgage costs on families in her constituency following economic instability.
James Murray
Our new Government will hardwire Budget responsibility into Government with our new fiscal lock in the Budget Responsibility Bill, which will make sure that the disaster we saw nearly two years ago can never happen again. We are also taking action to fix Britain's economic foundations with a new approach to growth.
Session: Living Standards
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Transgender People: Provision of Healthcare
16 December 2025
Responding: Karin Smyth
Main Concerns
["One of Rachel Taylor's constituents faced discrimination at her GP practice, including being misgendered and not allowed to use women’s toilets. The constituent is also struggling to access gender-affirming care due to long waiting lists. Across the UK, more than 48,000 trans adults are on waiting lists for gender-affirming healthcare with waits as long as 58 years in Scotland."]
Specific Asks
['Taylor urges the government to address the lack of local provision and discrimination in NHS services for transgender people. She calls for better monitoring and regulation for those relying on private providers due to inadequate NHS support.']
Freight Crime
03 December 2024
Responding: Dan Jarvis
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the serious impact of freight crime on the road haulage industry, which contributes £13.5 billion to the UK economy. In 2023, there were 5,370 reports of heavy goods vehicle and cargo crime in the UK, resulting in £68.3 million worth of stolen goods. Service stations like Corley services in my constituency have been repeatedly targeted by criminals, with 76 offences recorded in 2023 alone. The National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) is under-supported, lacking a national strategy and resources to combat organised crime.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Government to commit to working with the Department for Transport to improve service station security for freight drivers, increase support and resources for law enforcement, and launch a national freight crime awareness campaign. I also urge the Minister to provide more resources to tackle crime in identified hotspots and develop a cross-county strategy for information sharing between NaVCIS, businesses, and police forces.']
Jaguar Land Rover: Redundancies
09 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Health and Care Bill - Schedule 12 - Minor and consequential amendments
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. This amendment aims to make minor and consequential changes to ensure the smooth implementation of the Health and Care Bill. These changes are nec...
Not specified in the provided text - Clause not specified, but it is related to Schedule 12
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Karin Smyth is moving that the clause be read a Second time. She has not provided detailed arguments or statistics in this excerpt, but her intent is to advance the debate on the amendments within Sch...
Not specified in the provided text - Clause being debated is not specified in the provided text
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The provided text does not contain detailed arguments from Karin Smyth beyond the formal motion to read the clause a second time. Further details are needed for a comprehensive analysis.
Not specified in the provided text - Clause being read a Second time
08 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Karin Smyth, a Labour MP for Bristol South, moved that the clause be read a Second time. The specific details of the amendment and its implications are not provided in the given text.
Local Government Reorganisation
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
16 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Local Government Reorganisation
16 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
76.5%
75 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
27
27.6% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
23
23.5% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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: 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
2
PMQs Asked
37
Ministerial Questions Asked
78
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
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
-45% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+176% above average
This MP:
37
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+1505% above average
This MP:
78
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+11% above average
This MP:
76.5
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 Rachel Taylor's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.