Richard Burgon
MP for Leeds East
Lab
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 - 23 Jul 2024
Independent
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23 Jul 2024 - 5 Feb 2025
Labour
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5 Feb 2025 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Palantir staff have had unlimited access to identifiable NHS patient data. The Government have an opportunity to end this contract through a break clause next year. Will they take that opportunity and kick Palantir out of our NHS next year?
Context
Palantir, a US tech giant with concerns over its human rights record, is running the NHS's new data platform. There are fears about patient data security.
Keir Starmer
The Health Secretary will review the existing contract ahead of the break clause. Data security is a priority, and strong cyber-security protections will be in place for the single patient record.
Assessment
No commitment was given to terminate the Palantir contract; instead, the response focused on data security measures.
Focusing On Data Security Rather Than Terminating The Contract
Session: PMQs
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Disabled people in my constituency are frightened because they are again hearing politicians use the language of “tough choices”. They know from bitter experience that when politicians talk about tough choices, it means the easy option of making the poor and vulnerable pay. Instead of cutting benefits for disabled people, would not the moral thing—the courageous thing—to do be to make a real tough choice, and introduce a wealth tax on the very wealthiest people in our society?
Context
Disabled individuals fear cuts to their benefits due to the rhetoric of 'tough choices'. They have experienced such consequences in the past, leading to an increase in the financial burden on vulnerable populations.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
We have raised money through various means, such as the energy profits levy, taxing non-doms and air passenger duty on private jets. However, this is not a bottomless pit and we must kick-start growth to secure economic stability.
Assessment
The response did not address introducing a wealth tax or specifically addressing benefits for disabled people.
The Conservative Party Left A Broken Welfare System
Economic Imperatives
Session: PMQs
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After 30,000 Palestinian deaths, the killing of British aid workers, and a possible attack on Rafah, what will finally convince this Prime Minister to end arms sales to Israel?
Context
Palestinian deaths and British aid worker killings have not influenced the Prime Minister's stance on arms exports to Israel.
Rishi Sunak
Unlike the US, we do not directly sell arms to Israel and our position on export licences remains unchanged. Our regime regularly reviews compliance with international law.
Session: PMQs
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Why has the Prime Minister not published his tax returns yet, when will he do so, and will it include his US tax returns?
Context
The Prime Minister has not published his tax returns over 100 days after promising to do so.
Rishi Sunak
As I previously confirmed, I will publish my tax returns, and that will be done very shortly.
Session: PMQs
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Given my research, a nurse would need 20,000 years of work to match the Prime Minister's wealth. Considering this, wouldn't it be fairer to introduce wealth taxes on the wealthiest in our society rather than announcing further austerity measures?
Context
The Prime Minister's wealth and the current economic situation have raised questions about fairness in taxation. There is a call for wealth taxes on the super-rich to address income inequality.
Rishi Sunak
We support hard-working nurses with increased training, funding, and pay. We will make decisions that are fair and compassionate as we tackle challenges.
Assessment
The specific ask about wealth taxes was not addressed directly.
Highlighting Support For Workers
Session: PMQs
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A nurse who organised a small socially distanced demonstration against this Government's pay cuts was fined £10,000. People out there are sick to the back teeth of it being one rule for the Tories and another for everyone else. The Prime Minister, for once, needs to do the decent thing—for God's sake, resign!
Context
A nurse was fined £10,000 for organising a socially distanced demonstration against the Government's pay cuts. The question criticises this disparity in treatment.
Boris Johnson
I do not think there was a question there. There was an invitation for me to do what of course the Labour party wants me to do, but I am not going to do it. We are going to carry on with our agenda of uniting and levelling up across the country, and they fundamentally know that they have no answer to that. We have a plan and a vision for this country; they have absolutely nothing to say, and that is the difference between our side and their side.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address the resignation request but attacked Labour's policies instead.
Criticising Opposition
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister is having to self-isolate, as are hundreds of thousands of people across the country because of his reckless covid strategy. Unlike the Prime Minister, not everybody has been able to run off to a luxury country mansion with a heated swimming pool. Also, unlike the Prime Minister, so many people across our country are having to survive on just £96 sick pay per week. Could the Prime Minister survive on £96 sick pay per week? If he could not, why does he think that it is good enough for everyone else?
Context
The Prime Minister is self-isolating due to his covid strategy, while many others are struggling on low sickness benefits.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Gentleman is quite wrong, because everybody who is self-isolating is entitled, in addition to the equivalent of the living wage at statutory sick pay, to help, in extreme circumstances, from their local councils and to a £500 payment to help them with self-isolation. It remains absolutely vital that everybody does it.
Session: PMQs
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Exactly one year ago today we were told that 20,000 coronavirus deaths would be a “good outcome”. Yet our death toll is now six times higher: over 100,000 more people have lost their lives than that initial estimate. In March last year, the Prime Minister pontificated about taking it “on the chin”. Others acted decisively with lockdowns, but the Prime Minister dithered and delayed, with deadly consequences. With the worst hopefully now behind us, is it not time for the Prime Minister to hold up his hands and come clean with the British public and say, “Those deaths are on me, and for that I apologise”?
Context
Last year, a government official predicted 20,000 coronavirus deaths but the actual death toll is over 100,000. Critics blame the delay in implementing lockdown measures.
Boris Johnson
I certainly take full responsibility for everything the Government did, and of course we mourn the loss of every single coronavirus victim, and we sympathise deeply with their families and their loved ones. Am I sorry for what has happened to our country? Yes of course I am deeply, deeply sorry, and of course there will be a time for a full inquiry to enable us all to understand what we need to do better when we face these problems in the future, and that is something I think the whole House shares.
Session: PMQs
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Real-terms pay cuts for millions of public sector workers, an insulting 37p increase in benefit levels and broken promises on minimum wage increases show that the Prime Minister wants to pay for this crisis on the backs of the working class. Would it not be fairer to impose a windfall tax on the wealth of the super-rich and on those who have made super-profits out of the covid crisis, including those who won contracts because of their links to top Tories?
Context
Public sector workers face real-terms pay cuts, while benefits are only increasing by an insulting 37p.
Boris Johnson
I must, again, strongly disagree with what the hon. Gentleman says. Everybody on this side of the House is proud not just of the living wage but of record increases in the living wage, of above inflation pay rises across the board and, of course, of what we have done to support nurses and the NHS with record investment. I do not think anybody who looks at the investment this Government have made in the public sector could doubt our commitment. We will continue to do that, but what we want to see is our economy recovering and our strong and dynamic private sector, which the hon. Gentleman disparages, enabling the country to forge forward as it should.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address the specific suggestion of a windfall tax on super-rich individuals and companies that benefited from the crisis.
Disagreed With Premise
Session: PMQs
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Given the escalating Israeli violence in the West Bank, will the Government review their export licences to ensure no British military equipment is supplied to Israel that could be used there?
Context
The questioner raises the issue of reviewing arms export licences to ensure no British military equipment is supplied to Israel that could be used in the West Bank.
Stephen Doughty
My hon. Friend makes a very important point, and as I assured the hon. Member for Melksham and Devizes (Brian Mathew), we keep all our licences under review. We only approve licences that are consistent with our legal obligations, and all of them are kept under careful and continual review, as standard. We will of course keep the House updated on the implications of any other announcements we make.
Session: Arms Export Licensing Israel 2026-09-01
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I commend the Minister and the team on their approach. Tackling climate change needs to be a national and international effort. Is it not time to call out some of the Opposition parties and their friends in the right-wing media for engaging in a propaganda wave of climate change denial?
Context
The question arises from the concern about some political parties and media engaging in climate change denial.
Katie White
It is important that we work at international, national, and local levels to tackle misinformation and be honest about the challenges. We have a responsibility to use words responsibly and disagree agreeably.
Session: Climate Change 2026-07-07
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Given that one way to really help struggling families would be to lift the two-child benefit cap, which would lift hundreds of thousands of children across the country out of poverty including many in my constituency, will the Minister confirm whether the forthcoming Budget should announce that this policy will be scrapped?
Context
The cost of living crisis is a significant issue for families, and scrapping the two-child benefit cap could lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
My hon. Friend will understand that I am not going to make policy from the Dispatch Box. All available levers are under consideration as part of our child poverty taskforce, which will report later this year.
Session: Child Poverty
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What steps his Department is taking to tackle wasteful spending in the health service, considering the example of PFI deals which did huge damage to NHS budgets by saddling trusts with £80 billion in debts despite receiving only £13 billion in assets?
Context
The MP is concerned about wasteful spending within the NHS and the impact of previous government policies.
The Minister for Secondary Care (Karin Smyth)
As well as the record investment that we put into the NHS, we are ensuring that we get a better bang for the taxpayer’s buck. Under the Conservatives, for example, the NHS was paying £3 billion to recruitment firms for agency shifts. We have cut agency spending by a third and are abolishing it altogether, with the savings reinvested in staff pay and treatment for patients. That is just one example of how our reform agenda is good for patients and for taxpayers.
Session: Health Service Spending
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The Foreign Secretary will be aware that Colombia and South Africa, as co-chairs of the Hague Group, have called an emergency ministerial conference in defence of international law and the rights of the Palestinian people, to take place in Bogotá in July. Countries across the world are confirming their attendance. Will the UK Government send a representative, and join nations around the world in standing up for international law?
Context
The question pertains to an upcoming emergency ministerial conference called by Colombia and South Africa in support of Palestinian rights.
David Lammy
My hon. Friend will recognise that we, alongside our partners throughout the global community, continue to raise serious issues relating to the plight of Palestinians in Gaza, and of course I will look in detail at the conference to which he has referred.
Session: Topical Questions
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The hon. Member notes there has been a lot of focus on the impact of PIP cuts, with Government's own assessment stating that 250,000 people will be pushed into poverty by this cut but new figures show it could affect up to 700,000 families already in poverty. Why does this information have to come out through a freedom of information request? Will the Minister provide clarity on the true scale of poverty caused by these cuts and whether such policies align with Labour's mission to lift people out of poverty?
Context
The hon. Member references a Government impact assessment indicating that the PIP benefit cut will push approximately 250,000 people into poverty and highlights new DWP figures obtained through freedom of information request showing an additional 700,000 families already in poverty will be affected.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Liz Kendall)
My hon. Friend will know that those figures do not consider the number of disabled people expected to find work through our biggest ever investment in employment support, Pathways to Work, nor do they factor the huge strides we will make with our forthcoming child poverty strategy. We are more open and transparent than any previous Government by publishing all poverty impact assessments because we want this debate in the House and to present our case. Our mission is to help as many people as possible into work for better choices and opportunities.
Session: Personal Independence Payment Assessment Review
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What progress has been made on the Department's review of the personal independence payment assessment system? The hon. Member notes that there have been significant changes in disability and long-term conditions as well as societal shifts since PIP was introduced, which is why our Green Paper announced plans to review the PIP assessment with disabled people and their representatives.
Context
The question addresses the government's plans to review the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment system, introduced over a decade ago.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Liz Kendall)
It is over a decade since PIP was introduced and there have been significant shifts in the nature of disability and long-term conditions, as well as changes in wider society and the workplace. Our Green Paper announced our plans to review the PIP assessment system working with disabled people, organisations representing them, and others. We are starting this work today by inviting key organisations into discussions about the terms of reference which we will publish and keep the House updated as it progresses.
Session: Personal Independence Payment Assessment Review
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It is welcome to see the Government’s leadership in international climate action, especially after a decade of failure that left us exposed to soaring gas prices. I will be introducing a Bill to make the biggest polluters pay for climate action at home and abroad. Will the Secretary of State commit to meeting his Department with charities and NGOs working on fair and just climate financing?
Context
The UK now plays a leading role internationally on climate action through the global clean power alliance after a decade of failure that exposed areas to high gas prices. The Government is standing up against climate deniers.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Kerry McCarthy)
I welcome my hon. Friend’s support. We are doing all we can to mobilise climate financing in support of the new collective goal agreed at COP29. I would be more than happy to meet him and campaigners when he is ready.
Session: Climate Change International Leadership
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Israel has sent tanks to the west bank for the first time in 20 years, and some 40,000 Palestinians are being displaced from refugee camps there. The least that should be done to stop these contraventions of international law is to impose a ban on Israeli goods coming from illegal Israeli settlements. Is it now the time to do that?
Context
Tanks have been sent to the West Bank for the first time in 20 years, and some 40,000 Palestinians are being displaced from refugee camps. There is a call for action against illegal settlements.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
We call for trade to be done in the proper way. There are clear provisions around where Israeli goods are produced. We do not recognise illegal settlements. Produce must be properly labelled and there is clear advice to business on that basis.
Session: Illegal Israeli Settler Violence
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Trump has lifted the lid on Israel’s real plan: the ethnic cleansing—the forced displacement—of Palestinians. Nobody can claim any longer that they did not know or do not know what is going on: a genocide. All the warm words in the world about a two-state solution will not stop it; only sanctions will, as the world’s top court demands. That means bans on Israeli settlement goods entering this country. It means sanctions on trade and an arms embargo. Without doing that, people in this House will never be able to say that we did everything we could to stop these crimes that will echo down the generations. Will the Minister confirm that the Government will finally treat Israel as they have rightly treated Russia and impose widespread sanctions?
Context
The UK Government have imposed sanctions on certain military exports to Israel. The questioner asks for further measures including a ban on Israeli settlement goods entering the country.
Anneliese Dodds
On my hon. Friend’s question about forced displacement, I was very clear earlier about the fact that the UK Government are absolutely determined to ensure that there is not forced displacement. That would be contrary to international law. Gazans must be allowed home and, in the words of the Prime Minister himself,
“must be allowed to rebuild”.—[Official Report, 5 February 2025; Vol. 761, c. 745.] My hon. Friend asked about the situation in relation to arms exports. He will be aware that on 2 September we suspended a number of export licences to Israel for use in military operations in Gaza, and I refer him to my previous response on sanctions designations.
“must be allowed to rebuild”.—[Official Report, 5 February 2025; Vol. 761, c. 745.] My hon. Friend asked about the situation in relation to arms exports. He will be aware that on 2 September we suspended a number of export licences to Israel for use in military operations in Gaza, and I refer him to my previous response on sanctions designations.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
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While some MPs deny climate change, people are suffering from increased floods. The last Government left our flood defences in a poor state. Does the Minister agree this needs urgent national priority?
Context
The MP raises the issue of climate change denial in Parliament while communities face severe flooding consequences, highlighting previous government's neglect of flood defence maintenance.
Emma Hardy
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. The previous Government left flood defences in a state of disrepair—the worst state on record—leaving 60,000 homes exposed. That is why this Government will invest £2.4 billion into defences over the next two years.
Session: Flood Protection Funding
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I am concerned about the reforms made regarding funding for flood protection. What specific changes have been implemented to ensure better support and allocation of funds?
Context
The MP is concerned about inadequate funding for flood protection which has left communities vulnerable to flooding, with recent outages in Southampton.
Emma Hardy
We will have a public consultation in the new year on the formula that allocates flood defence funding. Protecting communities from flooding is a top priority, and later today I will have a winter flood preparedness meeting.
Session: Flood Protection Funding
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After the issuing of the arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, can the Foreign Secretary confirm when the Government will impose the scale of sanctions on Israel that it rightly imposed on Russia after the ICC issued an arrest warrant against Putin? A war crime is a war crime, and an arrest warrant is an arrest warrant. All lives are equal, and we must ensure there can be no accusations of double standards.
Context
Following the issuance of an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu by the International Criminal Court (ICC), Richard Burgon questions why similar sanctions on Israel have not been imposed as were applied to Russia after a warrant was issued against Putin.
Hamish Falconer
Since the Government took office in July, it has been clear how important questions of international law are to us, how soberly we treat these issues and how we ensure that in all matters, including in relation to the ICC cases described, we follow due process.
Session: Topical Questions
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The devastating scenes of flooding in Spain remind us all of why urgent investment is needed to deal with the deadly consequences of climate change. Does the Minister agree that this investment should be paid for by the polluting companies that have caused the climate crisis?
Context
Recent flooding in Spain highlights the urgency of addressing climate change through investment, which should be funded by polluting companies.
Kerry McCarthy
We hope that, at COP29 in the coming weeks, we can settle on a figure for a new ambitious goal which will bring in finance from donor countries and mobilise private sector finance. We want to ensure money is getting to developing countries as quickly as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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Following ICJ rulings, what steps are being taken to ensure Israel complies with its international legal obligations? What is your assessment of expansion in 2023 and how will you address it?
Context
The MP raised concerns about Israel not complying with its international legal obligations, especially regarding the recent rulings by the International Court of Justice.
David Lammy
My hon. Friend has raised these issues numerous times in Parliament. The expansion this year is unacceptable, exceeding what we have seen over the past 20 years combined. We are keeping these issues under review.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given the situation where up to 7,000 people in Gaza will face injury or death during parliamentary recess, what urgent steps will the Government take this summer including ending UK arms sales to Israel?
Context
Oxfam reported that up to 7,000 people in Gaza could be killed or injured this summer, with a third of them being children. The Government resumed UNRWA funding.
Anneliese Dodds
Too many people have died in Gaza and too little aid is getting in. We are clear that Israel must take concrete steps to protect civilians and aid workers, in accordance with international humanitarian law. This includes deconfliction between military and humanitarian operations.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Situation
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But a new poll today shows that two thirds of people think the Government should urgently pay fair compensation to all WASPI women, including many in east Leeds, who were hit by the change to the state pension age. It has been over six weeks since the Secretary of State got the parliamentary ombudsman's final report, but nearly three years since the ombudsman said that the Department for Work and Pensions had committed maladministration through its failure to properly inform affected women of the state pension age changes. With a WASPI woman dying every 13 minutes, time is not on their side. When will the Government stop dragging their feet? To help ensure justice, will the Government allow MPs to vote on a compensation package before the summer?
Context
A poll indicates that two thirds of people think the government should urgently pay fair compensation to WASPI women, who were affected by changes in state pension age. The parliamentary ombudsman's report has been pending.
Paul Maynard
The hon. Gentleman has heard the Secretary of State reply at great length to a number of questions on that subject today. We are looking carefully at the report and considering what is a very complex set of recommendations and proposals to make sure that we do the right thing.
Session: Pensioners Cost of Living
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Israel's deliberate and wilful starvation of Gaza is a war crime, yet the Government deflect all questions on UNRWA funding by saying that it runs until the end of April. We are here—today is the last day of April. If the Government do not restore UNRWA funding, are they not aiding and abetting Israeli war crimes?
Context
The UK's decision to not restore UNRWA funding is under scrutiny. The question addresses potential implications of this decision in the context of ongoing Israeli actions against Gaza.
Andrew Mitchell
I have made very clear the Government's position on UNRWA. We are in a process, and after it has been completed I will report to the House.
Session: Topical Questions
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The main issue raised by residents at the community coffee morning at the Compton centre in Leeds yesterday was the difficulty in getting access to dentists. The Secretary of State struggled to give any credible answer on this question today. Is she aware of the “Dentists for All” campaign and will she back it? Its three demands are: to provide access to an NHS dentist for everyone; to restore funding for dental services and recruit more NHS dentists; and to change the contracts, because they are simply not fit for purpose. Does the Secretary of State agree with that, and, if not, why not?
Context
Residents at a community coffee morning in Leeds raised concerns about difficulty accessing NHS dentists. The Dentists for All campaign demands access to an NHS dentist, funding restoration, and contract changes.
Victoria Atkins
We switched on our fully funded dental recovery plan, in case the hon. Gentleman was not listening carefully earlier, on 1 March. Nearly 500 more practices in England are accepting new adult patients than at the end of January, and even more will do so under the dental recovery plan. We have plans to bring in new dental vans to help our most isolated communities. We are also bringing in the Smile4Life programme for children, because prevention must be a critical part of our dental recovery plan.
Session: Topical Questions
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Increasing numbers of women are coming to my constituency surgeries about chronic UTIs among girls. Unfortunately there seems to be no treatment pathway for chronic UTIs among girls. Does my right hon Friend have any thoughts about that, and would he agree to meet me to discuss the issue further?
Context
The MP notes an increase in the number of women coming to surgeries about chronic urinary tract infections affecting their daughters, and mentions there is no current treatment pathway.
Andrew Stephenson
I would be very happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss the issue.
Session: NHS Treatment Waiting Times
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What steps her Department is taking to reduce waiting times for NHS treatment. NHS waiting lists have risen threefold since the Tories came to power, and the Prime Minister's pledge to cut waiting lists is in tatters. Rather than taking responsibility, the Tories first blamed NHS staff who were trying to get better pay, and now they have opened up a new round of media attacks on the sick and the disabled. Why do not the Government instead go after the tax dodgers, as Labour plans to do, to raise funds and help resolve the crisis in our NHS?
Context
The MP notes that NHS waiting lists have risen significantly since the Conservative government took power, and criticizes the government for not taking responsibility.
Andrew Stephenson
The hon. Gentleman does not condemn the strikes, while we are getting waiting lists down in England, Welsh Labour has the longest hospital waits in Great Britain, putting patients at risk because it does not have a plan to clear the backlog. In December 2023 the Welsh Labour Government had the highest number of patients in Great Britain waiting over two years for treatments.
Session: NHS Treatment Waiting Times
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Zane Gbangbola's parents are here today. Zane was seven when he died during floods 10 years ago this month. The fire brigade detected hydrogen cyanide multiple times, yet the truth about his death has not been revealed. A duty of candour would have helped them. Instead, will you establish an independent panel inquiry with full disclosure so all evidence can be reviewed by experts and justice done?
Context
The parents of Zane Gbangbola, who died in floods a decade ago, are in the Public Gallery. Richard Burgon requests an independent panel inquiry with full disclosure to review evidence and ensure justice.
Alex Chalk
I am grateful for raising this deeply upsetting case. The House is thinking of Kye and Nicole as they mourn their son's loss. This is a critically important case, and I suggest discussing it further to see what steps can be taken.
Session: Public Bodies Legal Duty of Candour
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With reference to his oral statement of 6 December 2023 on Hillsborough: Bishop James Jones Report, I am concerned about introducing a legal duty of candour on public bodies. The excellent report by Bishop James Jones calls for such a duty and the Government has signed the Hillsborough charter alongside other organisations. However, legislative proposals are needed to ensure public bodies act with transparency and accountability.
Context
Following the Bishop James Jones Report and the oral statement on Hillsborough, Richard Burgon asks for legislative proposals to introduce a legal duty of candour.
Alex Chalk
We agree with Bishop James Jones's report and have signed the Hillsborough charter alongside other organisations. We are legislating for a strong, permanent and independent public advocate to speak up for victims and their families, and rigorously hold signatories to the charter accountable. We stand ready to discuss further steps that may be necessary.
Session: Public Bodies Legal Duty of Candour
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To reduce reoffending we need a strong, locally focused and stand-alone probation service—similar to how things were before privatisation—so why are the Government moving in the opposite direction with their One HMPPS programme which has triggered a formal dispute with the probation unions because it subsumes probation still further into prisons?
Context
The Government's One HMPPS programme has triggered a formal dispute with the probation unions because it subsumes probation further into prisons, contrary to efforts to have a locally focused and stand-alone service.
Edward Argar
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his question; it is nice to answer questions from him again, as I did when he was shadow Secretary of State. The One HMPPS programme is about different parts of the system working well together to create a system that delivers the outcomes that society wants to see.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is heartbreaking that 4 million people live in destitution, with disabled individuals more likely to be among them. Despite this, disabled people will not receive any additional help with the cost of living due to the removal of a specific disability cost of living payment. With costs rising for disabled people, will the Secretary of State commit to reinstating the payment and at a level that meets extra living costs faced by disabled individuals?
Context
Concerns have been raised about the lack of additional support for disabled people this winter despite previous promises. The separate disability cost of living payment has reportedly been dropped.
Mel Stride
I am not sure which specific disability payment is being referred to, but the cost of living disability payment has been made this year. In addition, there have been increases in the national living wage and tax cuts that help people on low pay. Since 2010, absolute poverty has fallen by 1.7 million and 400,000 fewer children are in poverty.
Session: Destitution
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What steps his Department is taking to help reduce the number of people experiencing destitution. The Government rolled out £104 billion in cost of living payments from 2022 to 2025, but it remains unclear if these measures are sufficient given that 4 million people now live in destitution.
Context
The question follows concerns about the increasing number of people experiencing destitution in Leeds East despite government initiatives.
Mel Stride
The Government are fully committed to protecting the most vulnerable, having rolled out £104 billion in cost of living payments from 2022 to 2025. The rates for Local Housing Allowance housing support have been increased and benefits by 6.7%.
Session: Destitution
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With people supporting a windfall tax on excess bank profits, will the Government do the same?
Context
Banks are making bumper profits due to higher interest rates, but the Government is reducing surcharge on bank profits.
Bim Afolami
We have a globally competitive tax regime and do not apologise for it. The reduction in levy was offset by rising corporation tax.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is it not simply impossible to get aid in on the scale that is needed if we are to end the humanitarian nightmare under way in Gaza without a ceasefire?
Context
The question is about the necessity of a ceasefire for effective humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.
Andrew Mitchell
The hon. Member has heard the detailed responses from the Dispatch Box today on the difficulties entailed, and I reiterate what I said earlier: we are doing everything we can to try to make sure that we help those who are suffering in Gaza today.
Session: Topical Questions
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If the Minister will not accept the argument of my hon. Friend the Member for Leeds East (Richard Burgon), will he at least listen to industry, which described the recent announcement on onshore wind as a “missed opportunity” to end the ban? RenewableUK said: The proposed changes don't go far enough and would not make up for eight years of lost progress. When will the Minister listen to industry and lift the ban properly so that we can cut bills?
Context
The question arises from the recent announcement on onshore wind, which industry leaders described as a missed opportunity to end the ban.
Graham Stuart
On 5 September, the Government announced changes to national planning policy for onshore wind in England, giving greater flexibility to allocate suitable areas and to address the planning impact of onshore wind. I agree with the hon. Lady; I am an enthusiast for more onshore wind where it goes with the grain of communities, and we will continue to pursue that to make sure that we can realise the benefits that come from it.
Session: Onshore Wind Industry
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How many such violations of international law by Israel will have to take place before the Government act, including by banning UK trade with illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories?
Context
The Sub Laban family, who lived in their home for 70 years in the occupied old city of Jerusalem, were forcibly evicted last week by Israel to make way for illegal settlers. This situation reflects ongoing violations of international law.
David Rutley
We are concerned about demolitions and evictions of Palestinians, which call into question Israel's commitment to a viable two-state solution. We are pushing for it to reconsider forthcoming evictions.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
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What assessment has been made of the implications for his policies of recent violence in Israel and Palestine?
Context
The MP asked about the government's assessment of the implications for their policies following recent violent incidents in Israel and Palestine.
David Rutley
The accelerating cycle of violence in the west bank is a cause of enormous concern, and the Government are intensely focused on the situation. While the UK firmly supports Israel's right to defend itself and its citizens against terrorism, we urge the Israel Defence Forces to demonstrate restraint, adhere to the principles of international humanitarian law and ensure that civilians are protected.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
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Does the Minister agree that refusing to shut down VIP lanes will add to grave concerns over corruption shown by three quarters of the public worried about it?
Context
The MP raised concerns about VIP lanes for contracts given to Tory friends and donors, highlighting public polls indicating worry over corruption.
Alex Burghart
Last week we debated the Procurement Bill. I was very sorry not to see the hon. Gentleman in his place at the time, but if he had been present on that day he would have heard us say that the Bill prevents VIP lanes.
Session: Public Spending Value for Money
View All Questions -->
What steps have been taken to reduce inflation? The wealthy and influential often blame workers for high inflation even though real wages are declining. Economists now claim corporate profiteering is a major driver of prices going up. France has acted on food prices, Spain on rent controls. When will similar measures be implemented here?
Context
The question arises from concerns about rising inflation that is impacting workers' real wages negatively. Leading economists argue that corporate profiteering rather than wage growth is driving price increases.
John Glen
We take action through support for Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee, responsible decisions on tax and spending to avoid adding to inflation pressure, and tackling high energy prices with measures like holding down energy bills while investing in long-term security.
Session: Inflation
View All Questions -->
What recent steps has the government taken to reduce inflation? The rich and powerful repeatedly blame workers for high inflation despite falling real wages, while leading economists now suggest corporate profiteering is driving prices up. France and Spain are taking action on food prices and rent controls respectively. When will similar measures be introduced in response to corporate profiteering?
Context
The question follows recent concerns about rising inflation rates that are impacting workers' real wages negatively. Economists have pointed to corporate profiteering as a significant factor in price rises.
John Glen
We continue constructive dialogue with industry sectors, including meeting supermarket representatives recently. The Chancellor and Treasury officials will have further discussions. Most people recognise common global challenges affecting economies differently.
Session: Inflation
View All Questions -->
Why do the Government think that this tax cut for the super-rich is a priority?
Context
The question addresses recent tax giveaways to the wealthiest, allowing them to stash vast sums in their pensions tax-free. The context includes concerns about funding free school meals and food bank use.
Victoria Atkins
I gently remind the hon. Gentleman of the conversation that happened at the Budget—I hope he recalls it—about the need to get doctors, consultants and those in the public sector back into the NHS. We heard from doctors themselves—the British Medical Association and others—that there were barriers in the pension tax rules which stopped them continuing to serve.
Session: Tax System Fairness
View All Questions -->
What recent steps has he taken to ensure fairness in the application of the tax system?
Context
The question addresses recent steps taken to ensure fairness in the tax system. The context includes concerns about the impact of tax measures on public finances and contributions from different income groups.
Victoria Atkins
It is right that everyone contributes to sustainable public finances, and the Government are ensuring that those with the broadest shoulders pay their fair share. The spring Budget took steps to tackle avoidance and to improve the ability of His Majesty's Revenue and Customs to collect tax debts. That is alongside taking millions out of tax altogether by consistently raising personal tax allowances.
Session: Tax System Fairness
View All Questions -->
If the Government allow the Rosebank oilfield off the Shetland Islands to go ahead, it will blow the UK's climate targets. The UN Secretary-General and leading scientists are against new oil and gas. Is it not time for the Minister to rule out Rosebank?
Context
Developers of the Rosebank oilfield will receive billions in tax breaks, which could undermine climate targets.
Graham Stuart
We will be using oil and gas for decades to come as we move to net zero. It is estimated that we will require about a quarter of the gas we use today in 2050, so bringing it from abroad would mean much higher emissions than domestic production.
Session: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Sixth Assessment Report
View All Questions -->
It would cost around £1 billion to give nurses an inflation-matching pay rise. Scrapping the non-dom tax avoidance scheme used by the super-rich would raise more than £3 billion. Why, then, is the Chancellor putting non-doms before nurses?
Context
There is a financial disparity between the cost of giving nurses an inflation-matching pay rise versus scrapping non-dom tax avoidance schemes.
John Glen
The Chancellor is not doing that. There is a clear process in place, and we continue constructive dialogue with all professions in dispute with the Government and with their employers. This is obviously a challenging circumstance and we recognise how difficult it is.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State for Health—today, on the record—condemn the call from his predecessor to impose charges on visits to the GP or to A&E?
Context
A previous government call to impose charges on visits to the GP or A&E is being questioned for its fairness.
Steve Barclay
I am not sure how many times one needs to say the same point. The Government's position on this is clear: we are committed to treatment free at the point of use. That is the Government's position, and it has been throughout the NHS's history, the majority of which has been under Conservative Governments.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Government's imposition of voter ID, despite there being hardly any instances of voter fraud, is a crass attempt at vote rigging, and now the Electoral Commission and the Local Government Association are warning it will not even be possible to have everything ready by this May's local elections. So will the Minister do the right thing for our democracy and pause the roll-out, or will the Minister ignore the experts and plough on?
Context
Government is considering voter ID requirement for May 2023 local elections despite warnings from experts about feasibility and potential disenfranchisement.
Lee Rowley
The Government continue to work actively with the Electoral Commission and local authorities. The hon. Gentleman has deployed some pretty outrageous rhetoric, but we will ensure that in May 2023, people can cast their vote knowing it works.
Session: Voter ID May 2023 Local Elections
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
SEND Provision — [Clive Betts in the Chair]
05 September 2024
Responding: Catherine McKinnell
Main Concerns
['The crisis in special educational needs and disability (SEND) provision is a result of austerity measures that have reduced council budgets, caused long-term harm to the NHS, placed pressure on schools, and weakened services. The number of pupils with SEND has increased to 1.7 million since 2014, and over half of SEND pupils have been forced out of school due to inadequate provision. Two in three special schools are at or over capacity, and there are eye-watering delays for children to receive assessments and plans. Nearly a third of parents resorted to the legal system to get support for their children, spending thousands of pounds.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should address the root causes of the crisis by increasing funding, improving SEND training for teachers and special educational needs co-ordinators, adding more support staff in schools with proper pay, changing the curriculum to reduce focus on tests and league tables, implementing genuine early intervention strategies, restoring Sure Start services, scrapping the safety valve scheme, writing off local authority debts, and providing additional funding. The debate should also address the blame game unfairly placed on parents.']
Corporate Profit and Inflation
16 May 2023
Responding: Andrew Griffith
Main Concerns
["The discourse on inflation has largely ignored the role of corporations in driving up prices for profit, a phenomenon referred to as 'greedflation'. Studies show that corporate profits increased by 34% at the end of 2021 compared with pre-pandemic levels. Nearly all of this increase was due to just 25 companies. Profit margins for the largest companies in London have nearly doubled since 2019, contributing almost 60% to inflation. The financial press and central banks are raising concerns about corporate profits driving inflation."]
Specific Asks
['The Government should introduce an excess profits tax on all sectors benefiting from record-high profit margins during the crisis. They should also consider extending price caps beyond energy to other essential goods like food, housing, and utilities. Finally, public ownership of key utilities could prevent profiteering by privatised companies.']
New Wealth Taxes — [Sir Edward Leigh in the Chair]
14 June 2022
Responding: Lucy Frazer
Main Concerns
['Richard Burgon highlighted the significant income falls in the UK and cited shocking statistics about food banks and individuals struggling to afford basic necessities. He pointed out that while some are suffering, others at the top of society are experiencing a boom time with increased wealth for billionaires and high bonuses for bankers. He also noted that inequality is not just at the heart of our system but is structural and institutionalised.']
Specific Asks
['Burgon called for the introduction of a one-off 10% tax on any wealth above £10 million, which could raise £86 billion according to the Wealth Tax Commission. He argued that this tax would hit far less than 1% of the population but could create a huge social emergency fund to help those suffering from economic hardship and inequality.']
Future of the National Health Service — [Hannah Bardell in the Chair]
22 September 2021
Responding: Edward Argar
Main Concerns
["Richard Burgon is concerned about the NHS Bill's potential to further privatise and marketise the healthcare system. He cites issues such as strict budget caps leading to rationing, increased private involvement, reduced accountability, and a lack of transparency in contract allocation. Additionally, he points out that the funding increase under the current government falls short of what is needed compared to previous levels."]
Specific Asks
['Burgon asks for an end to privatisation, ensuring NHS services are run as public services with no role for private companies on local health boards or in service provision. He also calls for a substantial pay rise for NHS staff to address the staffing crisis and improve morale.']
Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Bill - New Clause 116
02 September 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I propose New Clause 116 to introduce a cap on donations from overseas contributors to political parties and candidates. This measure is necessary to ensure the integrity of our democratic process and...
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
Cuba: Humanitarian Situation
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Water Companies
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lebanon: Israel Defence Forces Operations
03 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs to make a statement on the Israel Defence Forces’ operations in Lebanon. Emphasised that the IDF is expanding its i...
Middle East
21 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson: Government Response to Humble Address
19 May 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson Humble Address: Government Response Update
27 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Disability Support Cuts
21 July 2025
The petition calls attention to proposed cuts in disability support that aim to save £5 billion per year, suggesting instead a 2% wealth tax on assets over £10 million as a less harmful alternative.
View Full Petition -->
Disability Support Cuts
30 June 2025
The petition addresses the planned cuts to financial support for disabled people, which are expected to save £5 billion annually. Petitioners argue that a 2% wealth tax on assets over £10 million coul...
View Full Petition -->
Wealth tax in the Autumn Budget
28 October 2024
The petition calls for the introduction of a 2% Wealth Tax on assets over £10 million, equalisation of Capital Gains Tax with Income Tax rates, and measures to end state subsidies to fossil fuel compa...
View Full Petition -->
Tax wealth
14 March 2023
The petition demands the scrapping of tax advantages for wealthy individuals who pay lower rates on wealth compared to regular income, advocating for a fairer tax system that would fund pay rises for ...
View Full Petition -->
Windfall Tax
07 September 2022
The petitioners are concerned about the excessive profits being made by oil and gas companies during a crisis of high energy bills, believing these profits come at the expense of ordinary people facin...
View Full Petition -->
National Insurance Increase
21 March 2022
The petition addresses the cost of living emergency faced by people in the UK, exacerbated by soaring energy bills, falling wages, and cuts to Universal Credit, and expresses concern about an impendin...
View Full Petition -->
Proposals for Higher Taxes on the Super-rich
21 July 2021
The petition calls for action against the increasing wealth gap and poverty in the UK, highlighting that British billionaires have significantly increased their wealth during the pandemic while food b...
View Full Petition -->
Wage floor to the furlough scheme
02 February 2021
The petition addresses the issue that millions of low-paid workers on the Government’s furlough scheme are being paid less than the National Minimum Wage, which is deemed unacceptable by the petitione...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
79.6%
78 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
30
30.6% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
20
20.4% 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
DID NOT VOTE
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
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
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
9
PMQs Asked
67
Ministerial Questions Asked
221
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
8
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
+146% above average
This MP:
9
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+400% above average
This MP:
67
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+4447% above average
This MP:
221
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
+226% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+15% above average
This MP:
79.6
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 Richard Burgon's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.