Richard Graham
MP for Gloucester
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
The Conservative party received a £10 million donation from someone who said that one of our MPs should be shot. Why are you putting money before morals?
Context
The Conservative party accepted a £10 million donation from an individual who expressed extreme views towards parliamentary colleagues. The question raises concerns about prioritising money over ethical considerations.
Rishi Sunak
The comments were wrong, and the donor has apologised for them.
Assessment
Specific actions to address morals.
Apology Accepted
Session: PMQs
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Can I highlight the commitment and hard work of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in reducing waiting lists? Does my right hon. Friend agree that those who imagine the Opposition have a magic wand to solve problems need look no further than the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board under Labour control?
Context
Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has significantly reduced A&E waiting times ahead of the Government's deadline. The Opposition criticises the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in north Wales for poor performance under Labour control.
Rishi Sunak
As my hon. Friend says, Gloucestershire has seen a significant reduction in A&E waiting times since December. We recognise there is more to be done and are delivering on our plan to recover urgent and emergency care.
Assessment
The PM did not address the comparison to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board under Labour control directly.
Session: PMQs
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Given our country's robust military and diplomatic support for Ukraine, my right hon. Friend, do you agree that as we prepare to host a reconstruction conference later this year, the Westminster Foundation for Democracy and other bodies can collaborate to support President Zelensky's vision for Ukraine's future?
Context
The Westminster Foundation for Democracy has been supporting the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine over a decade, and there is discussion about hosting a UK-led conference to further assist Ukrainian development post-war.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend makes an excellent point, and I shall ensure his suggestion is considered to involve all relevant organisations when hosting the reconstruction conference.
Assessment
Specific agreement on involving multiple UK organizations in supporting Ukraine's post-war development
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that this is a vital contribution by our Government and our people to democracy around the world, and will she encourage Members around the House to join us this evening?
Context
Thirty years since the Westminster Foundation for Democracy was established to support democracy around the world. Richard Graham invites members of Parliament to attend an event celebrating this milestone.
Elizabeth Truss
The Westminster Foundation for Democracy does a fantastic job. I do encourage colleagues from all sides of the House to attend the event tonight.
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that a robust plan is needed to cover cash-flow losses for businesses affected by coronavirus? Will the Treasury consider delaying VAT and PAYE collection?
Context
Businesses face significant cash-flow losses due to the coronavirus pandemic, potentially impacting employees' financial stability.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
My hon. Friend is right; we are monitoring the situation and prepared to support individuals, businesses and the economy. Mitigations like HMRC's Time to Pay arrangements exist for firms struggling with payments.
Session: PMQs
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I agree that community payback offers offenders an opportunity to make visible reparations. Can we expand the range of community payback activities to help at good local charities such as the Nelson Trust and the Family Haven, and participate in summer season litter picking?
Context
The questioner is interested in expanding community payback schemes to include work with local charities and environmental initiatives like litter picking.
Gareth Bacon
I thank my hon. Friend for that sensible question. Community payback offers offenders an opportunity to make visible reparations to their local communities, and millions of hours are delivered each year. For the great British spring clean in March, offenders spent thousands of hours clearing litter across the country. We are trialling a new way to deliver community payback through the rapid deployment pilot launched last year, which sees incidents cleaned up within 48 hours' notice.
Session: Custodial and Community Sentencing
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If he will make a comparative assessment of the effectiveness of short custodial sentences and sentences served in the community. Does this programme recognise that community payback schemes are often far more appropriate than short-term custodial sentences, particularly for women prisoners?
Context
The questioner wants to compare the effectiveness and outcomes of short custodial sentences versus community service sentences.
Gareth Bacon
Ministry of Justice reoffending statistics show that those serving a sentence of six months or less have a 59% reoffending rate. For offenders punished with suspended sentences or community orders, the reoffending rate is 24%. The Department's 2019 analysis of a matched cohort of over 30,000 offenders showed lower reoffending rates for those serving sentences in the community when compared with immediate custody of less than 12 months. Community payback offers offenders an opportunity to make visible reparations to their local communities, and millions of hours are delivered each year. As an example, during the great British spring clean in March, offenders spent thousands of hours clearing litter across the country. We are trialling a new way to deliver community payback through the rapid deployment pilot launched last year, which sees incidents cleaned up within 48 hours' notice.
Session: Custodial and Community Sentencing
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What correlation does the Secretary of State see between children in poverty and workless families? Given that there is no age restriction on most apprenticeships, and today's announcement that there will be 20,000 more apprenticeships and that the apprenticeship levy can be spent on greater numbers of contractors and sub-contractors, what opportunities does he see for his Department to highlight those opportunities for people who are of working age and who may have children in poverty?
Context
The MP is interested in the correlation between children in poverty and workless families, and the opportunities created by increased apprenticeships.
Mel Stride
My hon. Friend refers to workless households. A child is five times more likely to be in poverty if they are growing up in a workless household. My hon. Friend was right to draw attention to the announcement made today about even greater investment in apprenticeships, and also the change in the way that the apprenticeship levy works so that supply chains can benefit to a greater degree.
Session: Child Poverty
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The Minister knows that successive Energy Ministers have hugely helped the development of the marine energy sector in Scotland, as elsewhere in the United Kingdom. Does my hon. Friend agree that there is an opportunity in the next round of the renewables auction to allow for wave technologies alongside tidal stream technologies? Will he encourage the Scottish Government to speed up approvals of sites to get great green energy projects started as soon as possible in Scotland, as elsewhere?
Context
The previous rounds of contracts for difference have shown significant support for tidal stream technologies, but there is a need to consider wave technologies as well.
John Lamont
I am grateful for that important question. The Government are undertaking analysis of the technology pipeline available for contracts for difference auction round 6 against our legal obligation to ensure that the auction round is competitive. We are considering the appropriate parameters for all technologies, including tidal stream and wave energy. The final parameters will be published in the budget notice this month, ahead of the auction round opening.
Session: Marine Energy Sector Support
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What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the adequacy of support for the marine energy sector in Scotland?
Context
Discussions are ongoing about the adequacy of support for the marine energy sector in Scotland, which is a critical area for technological development and economic growth.
John Lamont
The Government are firmly committed to supporting Scotland's marine energy sector to grow. Around 80% of tidal stream contracts awarded through contracts for difference in the last two rounds will be deployed in Scotland. In addition, Horizon Europe selected two Scottish-based UK tidal stream developers to deliver projects in Orkney. They will lead construction on two £17 million projects, funded by the UK Government's financial guarantee.
Session: Marine Energy Sector Support
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Will the new Employment Minister join me in celebrating the availability of jobs and support for those working in Gloucester?
Context
The MP invites the new Employment Minister to attend a Gloucester opportunities fair on 23 February.
Jo Churchill
If my diary allows, I would be delighted to attend.
Session: Topical Questions
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The latest of many improvements to Gloucester Station since 2010 includes vital work on the station underpass and forecourt; however, contractor costs have risen since the original station improvement fund award. Will the Rail Minister agree to meet me and Great Western Railways to resolve that potential issue?
Context
Contractor costs have risen since the original station improvement fund award for Gloucester Station, creating a potential issue that needs resolution.
Mark Harper
I am grateful to my hon. Friend and neighbour for that question. I am very familiar with the investment and work that is currently being undertaken at Gloucester Station, as it is the one that I use on a regular basis when getting the train to London.
Session: Topical Questions
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I agree that relationships with several south-east Asian states have reached new highs as a result of partnerships in areas such as space and cyber as well as air and maritime capabilities. Does my right hon Friend agree that we should do more to ensure that the United Nations convention on the law of the sea is maintained in the South China Sea, working closely with our partners in the region?
Context
MP asked about steps to ensure stability in the region, referencing improved relationships with South-East Asian states through various partnerships.
James Heappey
My hon Friend hides his light under a bushel, because as a trade envoy in the region he will have had much to do with the improved relationships we enjoy there. Furthermore, HMS Spey transited the Straits of Malacca only this weekend, demonstrating the UK's and the Royal Navy's commitment to upholding freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and around.
Session: Indo-Pacific Region Stability
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What steps his Department is taking to help ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region. I agree that relationships with several south-east Asian states have reached new highs as a result of partnerships in areas such as space and cyber as well as air and maritime capabilities. Does my right hon Friend agree that we should do more to ensure that the United Nations convention on the law of the sea is maintained in the South China Sea, working closely with our partners in the region?
Context
MP asked about steps to ensure stability in the region, referencing improved relationships with South-East Asian states through various partnerships.
James Heappey
The tempo of our engagements and operations in the Indo-Pacific grows all the time on land, sea and air. We are also strengthening regional resilience among our partners to uphold freedom of navigation, deter security threats and build support for international law throughout the Indo-Pacific. My hon Friend hides his light under a bushel, because as a trade envoy in the region he will have had much to do with the improved relationships we enjoy there. Furthermore, HMS Spey transited the Straits of Malacca only this weekend, demonstrating the UK's and the Royal Navy's commitment to upholding freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and around.
Session: Indo-Pacific Region Stability
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My hon. Friend will know that the diocese of Gloucester has recently acquired six modular homes from a local provider for those in need of temporary accommodation, including asylum seekers and refugees. Will my hon. Friend join me in congratulating the diocese on its good work so far, and encourage it to make progress and put this model into practice as soon as possible?
Context
The diocese of Gloucester has recently acquired modular homes to provide temporary accommodation, a model that could be replicated elsewhere.
Andrew Selous
I am very happy to congratulate those in the diocese of Gloucester and thank them for the pioneering work they are doing on housing. I share his view that the need is urgent, and that we should get on with this and other similar excellent initiatives as quickly as possible.
Session: Asylum Seekers and Refugees
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What steps the Church of England is taking to support asylum seekers and refugees.
Context
The question arises from the need to understand specific actions taken by religious organisations to aid refugees and asylum seekers.
Andrew Selous
The Church of England is providing health kits, safe places to sleep, clothes, and messages to families who have become separated. Chaplaincies in Europe are actively involved in these efforts across the country.
Session: Asylum Seekers and Refugees
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Whether it is the accession to the trans-Pacific partnership, the first free trade agreement with Malaysia and Brunei, our Foreign Secretary at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit or the joint economic trade committee with Indonesia on Thursday, the Government are rightly doing all they can to bring alive the benefits of our trans-Pacific and Indo-Pacific pivot. Does my right hon. Friend agree that we in this House should all do everything we can to bring alive the potential for businesses in our nation, whether in designing frigates, cyber, EdTech or anything else?
Context
The MP highlights various diplomatic efforts by the UK to engage with Indo-Pacific nations, including free trade agreements and summit meetings.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
My hon. Friend is right. The opportunities the Indo-Pacific brings for UK citizens and businesses are enormous and we look forward to the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership being one more new opportunity for them to discover one of the most exciting parts of the world.
Session: Topical Questions
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What can be done to ensure that the value of UK exports, especially to Asia-Pacific, is recognized considering many parts are manufactured here?
Context
Over a third of the value in Airbus sales comes from the UK but is recorded as French due to final assembly location.
Nusrat Ghani
The Department is aware of the importance of recognizing UK contributions. A large deal with IndiGo will create jobs, and efforts are being made to highlight UK investment.
Session: Topical Questions
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We should all congratulate the Secretary of State and her team on concluding the CPTPP negotiations, and it should be ratified any time now in New Zealand. Of course the most important new element of the trans-Pacific partnership is this first ever free trade agreement with our long-term friend and ally, Malaysia. Whether in cars, cyber, chocolates, vaccines or legal and other services, the opportunities for British exporters are considerable and, of course, the dividends from our investment there, such as the new Smith & Nephew plant, will also help our balance of payments. Does my right hon. Friend therefore agree that there is a great opportunity for us and Malaysia to work together on spreading the word, through our regional offices, the UK-ASEAN Business Council and every other means possible, to make sure that businesses in both countries are absolutely aware of the opportunities that the deal offers?
Context
The UK has concluded negotiations for the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and is set to ratify it, particularly highlighting new trade relations with Malaysia. The deal offers significant opportunities in various sectors including cars, cyber services, chocolates, vaccines, and legal services.
Kemi Badenoch
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. He will be pleased to know that Ministers in the Department met their counterpart, the Malaysian export Minister, this very week. A lot is going on between our two countries. The Department works closely with the UK-ASEAN Business Council, and our first bilateral joint economic trade committee with Malaysia is expected later this year. It will help promote the bilateral trade and investment and economic co-operation that he rightly champions as the trade envoy to that country.
Session: Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership
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What steps her Department is taking to ensure that the UK's accession to the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership increases economic opportunities for businesses and consumers?
Context
The UK is set to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which will affect businesses and consumers across the country. The deal includes enhanced access to Malaysia, a significant market.
Kemi Badenoch
The CPTPP will be benefiting every nation and region of our country. In particular, UK firms will enjoy enhanced access to Malaysia for the first time, including a reduction on tariffs on whisky sales to Malaysia of 80% within 10 years, improving prospects for trade and opening up opportunities in an economy worth £330 billion.
Session: Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership
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One opportunity from our joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership is that it gives the UK a say in different chapters of the partnership, including that on the environment, and the ability to work with Malaysia to ensure the sustainability of its palm oil exports, in exactly the same way that we helped Indonesia shape its regulations and processes for exporting timber. Does the Minister agree that the key to all this is engagement? In that context, does he share my strong enthusiasm for a separate free trade agreement with Indonesia, so that we can work together for the huge benefit of both countries?
Context
The government is working to engage with Malaysia and other countries within the trans-Pacific partnership, including Indonesia. There is a focus on sustainability of palm oil exports from Malaysia and timber exports from Indonesia.
Nigel Huddleston
I thank my hon. Friend for the amount of work that he does as a trade envoy. We both met our Indonesian friends this week, and the Minister of State, Department for Business and Trade, my hon. Friend the Member for Wealden (Ms Ghani) will be visiting Indonesia shortly, so we are certainly building those relationships. We are always keen to look at future opportunities for trade agreements and, outside trade agreements, at enhancing the relationship through a variety of fora, for the very reasons that my hon. Friend the Member for Gloucester explains.
Session: Trade Deals Environmental Standards
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Marine Scotland needs to increase the speed at which it approves sites for future tidal stream developments under contracts for difference. The European Marine Energy Centre in Orkney highlights this issue. Does he agree that improving site approval processes could enhance marine energy development?
Context
The MP raises the importance of marine energy, particularly tidal stream, for Scotland's renewable energy sector.
John Lamont
Scotland has benefited from contracts for difference, which is a Government flagship support scheme for large-scale renewable projects. In relation to tidal, round 4 awarded over 40 MW of new tidal stream power.
Session: Offshore Wind Employment
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What are we doing to support the Philippines in addressing maritime issues caused by Chinese militia ships?
Context
The Philippines, a growing trade partner, is suffering from maritime incursions by the People's Republic of China despite the UNCLOS arbitration award.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
I was in the Philippines just a few weeks ago discussing with the Philippines coastguard the realities of the coercive behaviour that Chinese militia ships are demonstrating in the western Philippine seas. We continue to work closely with them through our maritime security work to support their efforts.
Session: Topical Questions
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Of course, the other side of the coin is not leaving the workplace too soon. Will my hon. Friend support holding an event specifically for over-50s in Gloucester Jobcentre Plus to see what local employers can offer? Would a Minister join me there?
Context
An initiative to hold an event focusing on employment opportunities for individuals aged 50 and above, both men and women.
Laura Trott
My hon. Friend does excellent work in his constituency, and my hon. Friend the Member for Hexham (Guy Opperman), the Minister for Employment, has indicated that he would be delighted to join my hon. Friend in Gloucester.
Session: State Pension Age Women
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As well as reassuring financial markets and bringing down mortgage rates, the autumn statement did a great deal to help consumers and businesses. When my right hon. Friend comes to announce what further help might be available for businesses after March, will those in the Treasury also highlight opportunities from increased business rate discounts?
Context
The autumn statement helped businesses through winter energy prices, but further help is needed after March.
Jeremy Hunt
We will certainly do that. I know the 75% discount for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses will make an enormous difference to businesses in Gloucester.
Session: Topical Questions
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I ask my right hon. Friend to confirm first that the next round of Joint Economic and Trade Committee talks will happen here in London in the first quarter of next year, secondly that the new Government-to-Government framework has Indonesia as a priority, and thirdly if we can move to negotiations on an FTA as soon as possible?
Context
The MP asked about the follow-up to recent trade agreements with Indonesia.
Kemi Badenoch
I congratulate my hon. Friend on his efforts in championing Indonesia. We want to have a JETCO early next year, and I would like him to assist us in engagements with Indonesia.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is the Minister aware that NATO has set up such a centre and will he ensure that Government initiatives do not undermine their work?
Context
NATO has established a centre focused on enhancing democratic resilience. Valerie Vaz is concerned about potential duplication of efforts or undermining this work.
Andrew Mitchell
Yes, I am aware of NATO's centre for democratic resilience. We aim to enhance our work in a seamless and joined-up approach.
Session: Supporting Democracies
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I am concerned that global democracy is declining overall, although not everywhere. The Westminster Foundation for Democracy has proposed helping FCDO establish a centre of expertise. Will you meet with them soon to discuss how we can advance these proposals?
Context
The question follows an ongoing discussion about the decline in democracy globally, despite its importance for international stability. Richard Graham highlights the Westminster Foundation for Democracy's 30-year experience and their proposal to assist FCDO in building a democracy strategy.
Andrew Mitchell
I will certainly meet with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy and commend them on 30 years of advancing democracy around the world, despite budget pressures. We will not reduce their funding this year.
Session: Supporting Democracies
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I welcome the Minister's update. Will he reaffirm that that is the long- standing position of our country; that it is the right position internationally; that the work done by our consulate-general in Jerusalem is extremely valued and complements what is happening in our embassy in Tel Aviv; and that that will continue to be the case?
Context
No specific background given, but the question builds on previous discussions about the UK's stance regarding its embassy in Israel.
David Rutley
My hon. Friend has real expertise on the issue. Yes, I completely agree with him.
Session: British Embassy Relocation Jerusalem
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Can the Minister arrange a meeting where best practice on how to tackle this growing problem can be shared with many of us in this Chamber who have similar problems?
Context
The MP is concerned about the involvement of young people in gangs, drugs, and knife crime. He mentions a trend of increased youth involvement.
Stephen McPartland
I know the work that my hon. Friend has done to try to reduce antisocial behaviour within his own community, and I know that he has been working hard. He supports violence reduction units. There is a huge amount of money and investment going into sharing best practice among forces to ensure that we also protect these individuals. We know the huge problems that county lines are creating up and down the country, and there has been a massive investment in breaking county lines on which this Government have been leading the way.
Session: Antisocial Behaviour
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Will the Foreign Secretary play a leading role in events celebrating this anniversary and ensure continued support for democracy projects?
Context
The Westminster Foundation for Democracy's 30th anniversary is being celebrated.
Elizabeth Truss
Funding issues were resolved, allowing the Westminster Foundation for Democracy to continue its excellent work. The foundation supports democracies fighting back against authoritarian regimes.
Session: Topical Questions
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May I pay tribute to the appointment and work of our defence attaché in Vietnam, Bea Walcot? Does the Secretary of State agree that there is huge potential for women in such roles, which combine diplomacy and procurement as well as armed forces expertise?
Context
Recognition of the appointment and work of Bea Walcot, a female defence attaché.
Ben Wallace
Some of our best ambassadors are women, and I hope that soon even more of our best defence attachés will be women. Defence engagement is an extremely important part of defence, with better infrastructure, training, and support committed to the network through the defence Command Paper.
Session: Women in the Armed Forces
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When will the application forms for tennis court refurbishment be ready?
Context
Richard Graham, expressing excitement about the mapping exercise by LTA benefiting over 4,500 public courts, asks when the application forms will be ready.
Nigel Huddleston
Delivery will commence in the next financial year from April 2022, making a significant difference to tennis in this country.
Session: Local Tennis Courts
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What progress has been made on implementing plans to refurbish local tennis courts announced on 2 October 2021?
Context
Following the announcement on 2 October 2021, Richard Graham inquires about progress made by the Department.
Nigel Huddleston
At the spending review, £30.1 million was allocated to renovate park tennis courts in partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association, aiming to revive over 4,500 courts including those at more than 1,500 venues.
Session: Local Tennis Courts
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In this “tree-bilee” year, the Environment Minister knows about Gloucester's huge new project, Hempsted woods, where I hope every child will have the chance to plant a tree. She herself kindly planted an apple tree there last year. Does she agree that it would be very helpful if the Department could publish a crib sheet about how everybody in the country can access new trees to plant this year, as soon as possible?
Context
Hempsted woods project in Gloucester aims for every child to plant a tree, with the minister participating last year.
Rebecca Pow
It was a pleasure to plant that tree; I hope it is doing well. I congratulate my hon. Friend on his tremendous work with the whole team in Gloucester to plant that huge wood. It will make such a difference to our tree target. It is a great idea of his to send out a list of all the myriad grants that are available for tree planting.
Session: Topical Questions
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I saw in Sarajevo last week how well appreciated is the Government's robust response to the secession threat from Republika Srpska and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and how appreciated is the Westminster Foundation for Democracy's five-year programme that works closely with missions there on more inclusive community and political leadership. That valuable programme comes to an end at the end of March and does not have certainty of further funding, so will the Minister do all she can to expedite budget decisions so that it can continue across the region?
Context
The Westminster Foundation for Democracy's five-year programme is appreciated but faces funding uncertainty.
Vicky Ford
I thank my hon. Friend for his work as chair of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy and for all the good that that organisation does globally, including in Bosnia and Herzegovina. We are proud supporters of it and especially of its work to increase the participation of women and young people in politics. On funding decisions, the Foreign Secretary has been clear that we intend to restore funding to women and girls and to humanitarian programmes. We will finalise budget allocations shortly.
Session: Supporting Democracy
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What steps her Department is taking to help strengthen democracies and open societies across the world.
Context
The MP is concerned about the steps to support global democracies and open societies.
Vicky Ford
Democracy and freedom are at the heart of our Foreign Secretary's vision for a network of liberty that will use partnerships in trade, security and technology to promote democratic values. We are committed to working with partners and allies across the world, including civil society, to support more open, inclusive and accountable societies.
Session: Supporting Democracy
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What discussions have you had with the Church of England regarding its real estate's potential role in addressing housing demand? The Secretary of State will know about the Diocese of Gloucester's efforts to implement the important report from the Archbishops, “Coming Home”. I want to thank Bishop Rachel and all involved for funding the national housing executive and delivering projects like St Aldate's and Hardwicke. However, legal reforms on ownership are stuck with the Church Commissioners and the Archbishops' Council, so what more can you do to ensure the Church of England fulfills its social mission in providing affordable housing?
Context
The Diocese of Gloucester has been actively involved in implementing the Archbishops' report on housing, yet there are legal reforms that remain stuck with the Church Commissioners and the Archbishops' Council.
Michael Gove
We are working with the Church of England to unlock more land and support its drive to secure greater access to affordable housing. The Secretary has recently been in touch with the Bishop of Kensington, Graham Tomlin, who will take forward further conversations to achieve shared goals.
Session: Church of England Real Estate
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What discussions have you had with the Church of England regarding its real estate's potential role in addressing housing demand? The Secretary of State will know about the Diocese of Gloucester's efforts to implement the important report from the Archbishops, “Coming Home”. I want to thank Bishop Rachel and all involved for funding the national housing executive and delivering projects like St Aldate's and Hardwicke. However, legal reforms on ownership are stuck with the Church Commissioners and the Archbishops' Council, so what more can you do to ensure the Church of England fulfills its social mission in providing affordable housing?
Context
The Diocese of Gloucester has been actively involved in implementing the Archbishops' report on housing, yet there are legal reforms that remain stuck with the Church Commissioners and the Archbishops' Council.
Michael Gove
We are working with the Church of England to unlock more land and support its drive to secure greater access to affordable housing. The Secretary has recently been in touch with the Bishop of Kensington, Graham Tomlin, who will take forward further conversations to achieve shared goals.
Session: Church of England Real Estate
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Given that military aid is not eligible for the OECD's goal of ODA, although a stable and peaceful Government is surely helpful for the economic development and welfare of developing nations, is it time for our military aid to be included in the many exceptions list, or is it time for a review of the OECD definition so that the good work of our armed forces can be recognised and accounted for as part of the Government's aid commitments?
Context
MP questioned whether military aid should be included in the many exceptions list or if there is a need for a review to reflect the contributions of defense activities towards economic development and welfare.
James Heappey
My hon. Friend is right to acknowledge the important contribution that defence activities make in helping to create the secure conditions essential for sustained economic development. As he may have heard me say to the hon. Member for Oxford West and Abingdon (Layla Moran), to be constrained by the definition would do a disservice to our freedom of manoeuvre as the Ministry of Defence, but we very much hope that ODA rules could be changed to reflect the very wide range of activities that defence is involved in but that currently are not accounted for as part of our ODA spend.
Session: Departmental Overseas Aid Activity
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What recent estimate has he made of the proportion of his Department's overseas activity which is accounted for as aid?
Context
MP inquired about the recent estimate made by his department regarding the proportion of its overseas activities classified as official development assistance.
James Heappey
Around 0.01% percent of defence expenditure is reported as official development assistance, reflecting the fact that the majority of defence activity falls outside the definition of ODA.
Session: Departmental Overseas Aid Activity
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Richard Graham asks about steps taken by the Department to support democracies during the pandemic, highlighting challenges and opportunities in 2021 when the UK chairs major international organisations like G7, Commonwealth, and COP26. He seeks more work from the Westminster Foundation for Democracy under DFID.
Context
The UK is supporting Hong Kong and implementing Magnitsky-style sanctions. The health and economic responses include support for governance, transparency and freedom of speech.
Nigel Adams (Minister of State for Africa at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office)
DFID and FCO are strong supporters of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy's work. Nigel Adams thanks Richard Graham for his commitment as chair of WFD. In 2019-20, £3.3 million from FCO and £3.9 million from DFID was allocated. Constraints on ODA due to covid-19 are expected over the next few months. The integrated review will examine options for enhancing democracy support. The merger presents an opportunity to strengthen UK's support for democracy.
Session: Supporting Democracies during Covid-19
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What steps his Department is taking to increase access to justice. In response to disruption caused by covid we are providing £5.4 million in funding to not-for-profit providers of specialist legal advice.
Context
Inquiry into funding and support for law centres and magistrates courts.
Alex Chalk (Minister for Crime Prevention)
The answer is yes—I welcome my hon. Friend's support for the Gloucester Law Centre which does fantastic work; The £3 million grant will allow law centres to increase their capacity to provide advice for those who need it; We are also considering the longer-term sustainability of providing legal aid more widely, including for asylum cases; My officials are working closely with stakeholders on this; On court maintenance we have announced a tripling of funding for repairs and upgrades to include £30 million for the roll-out of the latest video technology.
Session: Access to Justice
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How effective is the current operation of universal credit? Richard Graham praises jobcentres for their work and asks about constituents losing child tax credit before new benefits are payable.
Context
Since mid-March, 2 million universal credit claims have been processed. The legacy benefit system would not cope with this surge.
Will Quince
Thanking Richard Graham, Will Quince acknowledges the issue has been raised by colleagues and is looking at data and exploring options. The DWP works closely with HMRC to encourage claimants to check eligibility before making a claim.
Session: Universal Credit
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that the UK has a vital role to play in ensuring freedom of navigation, providing defence and cyber solutions to south-east Asia, and boosting the five power defence arrangement, as part of our deepening relationship with ASEAN?
Context
The UK's defence relationship with south-east Asian nations, focusing on the importance of the South China Sea as a navigation route and source of intra-nation disputes.
Ben Wallace (The Secretary of State for Defence)
I agree. The international rules-based system is being threatened in Asia and across the Pacific, particularly the South China sea. We want to strengthen work with the five power defence arrangements and deepen bilateral relationships with ASEAN member states.
Session: Defence Relationships South East Asia
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Great Western Main Line
09 January 2024
Responding: Huw Merriman
Main Concerns
["Mr. Graham is concerned about the creeping nationalisation of railways since the pandemic and the lack of recognition for the success of private railway operators, including a 107% increase in passenger journeys, a 32% increase in services, and a 145% increase in revenue. He also highlights ongoing issues such as train driver strikes, which have led to significant passenger frustration. Additionally, he mentions the challenges posed by Network Rail's infrastructure failures in the Thames valley and expresses worry about the excessive taxpayer subsidy."]
Specific Asks
['Mr. Graham asks for a renegotiation of train stop times at Gloucester station to potentially reduce journey times further and encourages continued collaboration between MPs, railway operators, the Department for Transport, and Network Rail to improve services and infrastructure.']
Spiking Incidents: Prevention — [Esther McVey in the Chair]
11 January 2023
Responding: Thomas Tugendhat
Main Concerns
["Mr. Richard Graham is concerned about the prevalence of spiking incidents, particularly affecting young females in the night-time economy. He cites data from the National Police Chiefs' Council showing nearly 5,000 reported cases of spiking for the year ending August 2022, including 2,581 cases involving needles and 2,131 cases involving drinks. Graham highlights that despite Home Office promises to research this issue, no specific proposal has been forthcoming."]
Specific Asks
['Mr. Graham requests a simple amendment to existing law to make spiking completely illegal without creating a new offence. He believes such an amendment would help clarify the legal status of spiking and encourage victims to report incidents more frequently.']
Westminster Foundation for Democracy: Funding
02 March 2022
Responding: Vicky Ford
Main Concerns
["The MP is concerned about the uncertainty surrounding the funding of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), a small organisation that has played a distinguished role in representing British values on a global stage. He highlights the importance of democracy and the current recession it faces, particularly among young people who might view other governance models as more efficient. The MP also mentions specific challenges such as delays in confirming funding for the WFD's projects, which are crucial in supporting open societies around the world."]
Specific Asks
["The lead MP asks that the government provide certainty and adequate funding to ensure the continued operation of the WFD's programmes, including those focused on reducing corruption, improving parliamentary structures, and promoting women into political leadership positions. He also requests a reaffirmation of support from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and other colleagues."]
Apprenticeship Levy — [Caroline Nokes in the Chair]
11 February 2020
Responding: Michelle Donelan
Main Concerns
['Richard Graham is concerned about the effectiveness of the apprenticeship levy introduced three years ago. He notes that while the number of higher apprenticeships has doubled, there has been a significant drop in level 2 and level 3 apprenticeships. The complexity of the system, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), has led to many employers seeing the levy as a tax rather than an investment opportunity. Graham highlights specific issues such as delays in approving standards and administrative burdens that discourage companies from using their unspent levy funds.']
Specific Asks
['Graham asks the Government to clarify whether the £2.5 billion invested annually is a gross or net figure, how much of the levy can be transferred to SMEs, and if there are plans to increase this transfer percentage to encourage more apprenticeships. He also requests that the Minister provide updates on transferring non-levy payers to a simpler system and address issues related to the inflexibility of the current framework.']
Business of the House 2025-12-11
11 December 2025
General Debate
Led by this MP
Mr Graham highlighted the difficulties faced by businesses due to recent tax rises, particularly in hospitality and retail sectors. He mentioned specific examples from his constituency such as Walling...
Crime and Policing Bill 2025-06-17
17 June 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Rail Performance
11 November 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
NHS Performance: Darzi Investigation
07 October 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The national health service is broken due to four main issues: under-investment, Andrew Lansley's disastrous reorganisation in 2012, failure to reform previous Labour Government reforms that delivered...
CrowdStrike: IT Outage
22 July 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Gaza
20 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Crime (Overseas Production Orders etc) Bill - Clause 30 - Child sex offences: grooming aggravating factor
15 May 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
I move that the clause be read a Second time. This amendment aims to ensure that child sex offenders who engage in online grooming receive additional punishment, reflecting the severe nature of this a...
Defence Personnel Data Breach
07 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defence Spending
24 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Coronavirus Act 2020 - Schedule 5 - Application of Chapter 1 of Part 1 to existing tenancies: transitional provision
24 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Jacob Young, the Member for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, moved that the clause be read a Second time. The specific amendment proposed in this speech does not provide detailed arguments but can be...
5
PMQs Asked
40
Ministerial Questions Asked
181
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
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
+37% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+198% above average
This MP:
40
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+59% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3624% above average
This MP:
181
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 (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
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 Graham's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.