Robert Courts
MP for Witney
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
As we speak, my constituents at 47 Squadron are standing down after defending our country for more than 107 years. Will the Government join me in paying tribute to their remarkable service?
Context
The Royal Air Force is operating the Hercules farewell flypast, which has been a key part of British defence for over 50 years.
Rishi Sunak
I join my hon. Friend in paying tribute to 47 Squadron for its association with the Hercules now stretching to 45 years, serving our country professionally and distinguishedly.
Session: PMQs
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Our farmers provide food and support our countryside. However, there is concern that new schemes under DEFRA's Agricultural Transition Plan may not be ready for farmers to access, creating a shortfall from the Basic Payment Scheme. Will my right hon. Friend urge his colleagues in DEFRA to roll out remaining Sustainable Farming Incentive standards quickly? Can he also consider double-stacking SFI and Countryside Stewardship payments to ensure Oxfordshire's farmers get needed support?
Context
Some Oxfordshire farmers are concerned about the readiness of new schemes under DEFRA's agricultural transition plan to make up for basic payment scheme shortfalls.
Rishi Sunak
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. We aim to continue supporting farmers in producing healthy nutritious food. We are progressing with the Environmental Land Management Scheme, fine-tuning it to better serve farmers. There will be flexibility in Sustainable Farming Incentives to ensure that Countryside Stewardship schemes can be used on the same plots of land.
Assessment
Did not commit to specific rollout timelines or double-stacking payments
Stated They Want Flexibility But Did Not Confirm Specifics
Session: PMQs
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He asks if my right hon. Friend agrees that as the nation sacrifices during this crisis, it's time for banks to do their part in supporting businesses financially.
Context
The MP voices concerns about businesses being denied financial help by banks due to regulatory systems, urging the Government to expect banks to concentrate on getting cash to those in need.
Dominic Raab (First Secretary of State)
The hon. Member is thanked for championing small businesses, and it's noted that we are helping all types of businesses through various loan schemes to get them through this period and bounce back with confidence post-crisis.
Session: PMQs
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May I take this opportunity to formally welcome the Secretary of State to his position? I am grateful for his comments on military accommodation being a priority for him. The Select Committee is undertaking an inquiry into that as well. One of the issues that has come up is the absence of a military uniformed accommodation officer who is responsible for continually inspecting accommodation and then liaising with the contractors to ensure that the repairs take place. Is that something my hon. Friend the Minister will consider?
Context
The Select Committee is investigating issues related to military accommodation, including the absence of a dedicated officer for inspection and liaison.
James Cartlidge
I strongly congratulate my hon. Friend on becoming Chair of the Defence Committee and I look forward to working with him.
Session: Topical Questions
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With the retirement of the Hercules placing even more demands on the air mobility force, what confidence does he have that, if required to do so, those forces have enough men, women and machines to defend the UK in a peer conflict?
Context
The question stems from the Defence Committee report “Aviation Procurement: Winging it?” which highlights concerns over the combat air mass and the strain on air mobility due to retiring aircraft. The MP is querying about the readiness of the forces.
James Heappey
I have complete confidence that quick reaction alert will be resourced. The highest priority of the air force is to defend the homeland. I also have complete confidence that the combat air force, as currently structured, is capable of performing a very wide range of duties around the world.
Session: RAF Quick Reaction Alert Stations
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What recent assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the RAF quick reaction alert stations?
Context
The question arises due to concerns about the RAF's ability to effectively respond and defend against aerial threats. The MP is seeking an assessment of recent operations.
James Heappey
Royal Air Force pilots and ground crew are poised on quick reaction alert 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round, ready to scramble within minutes. QRA has been launched on five occasions in 2023 with every incident resolved successfully.
Session: RAF Quick Reaction Alert Stations
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Will he work with me to ensure that we not only use this brownfield land but protect West Oxfordshire's land supply and give the RAF the homes that it needs?
Context
The MP discussed with the Minister about upgrading existing MOD housing and purchasing new housing, emphasizing the need to use brownfield land like the REEMA North site.
James Cartlidge
We remain fully committed to developing new housing for service personnel at the REEMA site. Engaging with industry partners and willing to continue engaging with my hon. Friend.
Session: Topical Questions
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What has the Minister been doing to help science and tech businesses in Oxfordshire, so that they no longer have to look into the abyss?
Context
The MP inquired about the government's actions to help science and tech companies affected by the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank.
Michelle Donelan
My hon. Friend is absolutely right that the futures of so many companies, and thousands of UK jobs, were at stake. My Department worked tirelessly with the Treasury to facilitate a solution. In doing so, we have protected our life sciences and tech sectors, which not only drive economic growth across the country but deliver life-saving products.
Session: Research and Development Sector
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Are Ministers looking at what procurement can be done commonly with NATO allies?
Context
Concerns over procurement options with NATO allies for stockpiling and ammunition.
James Heappey
Absolutely. The UK works with allies around the alliance, both through the alliance itself and bilaterally, finding out that industrial capacity cannot be turned on just like that.
Session: NATO Obligations
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Will my right hon. Friend consider what can be done to rebalance the system so that more is done to ensure people are treated at the primary and community level?
Context
The question addresses the demand for GP appointments in Oxfordshire, suggesting a need to shift focus from treating acute symptoms to managing long-term conditions at an earlier stage.
Steve Barclay
My hon. Friend highlights an absolutely brilliant point, one I am extremely seized of, which is: how do we get detection much sooner, looking at genomics, screening and identifying issues before the patient is even necessarily aware that they have a condition. Early care delivers far better patient outcomes but it is also far cheaper to deliver. That prevention, as he highlights, is extremely important.
Session: Primary Care Staff Numbers
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What progress has the Department made on increasing the number of primary care staff?
Context
The question follows a general query about progress made by the Department in increasing primary care staff numbers.
Steve Barclay
Since March 2019, GPs have recruited over 25,000 staff such as pharmacists, physiotherapists and mental health practitioners, and we are on track to hit our 26,000 additional staff commitment.
Session: Primary Care Staff Numbers
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What assessment has the Attorney General made of the international community's progress in bringing Russian leadership to trial for the crime of aggression in Ukraine?
Context
None provided, direct ask about assessment.
Victoria Prentis
The crime of aggression is one of the most significant in international criminal law. At Ukraine's invitation, we have joined a core group of states to discuss the establishment of a bespoke tribunal. We are absolutely determined to play a leading role in ensuring international accountability for Russia's actions.
Session: Support for Ukraine’s Judiciary
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What steps she has taken to support Ukraine's judiciary in their conduct of war crimes trials.
Context
None provided, direct ask about steps taken.
Victoria Prentis
I thank my constituency neighbour for his question. This Government firmly believe in international accountability. Ukraine's judiciary should be congratulated on prosecuting war crimes right now, in real time, during a brutal conflict. On Monday I met a delegation of Ukrainian judges in this building and heard how they are approaching this monumental task. They are grateful for our practical support, including an extensive training programme led by Sir Howard Morrison.
Session: Support for Ukraine’s Judiciary
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I have recently been to see some of the RAF housing in Carterton. Given the mould in homes with children present and the fact that requested repairs are left uncompleted, it seems that the Pinnacle-VIVO partnership is failing military families. What are Ministers doing to hold those companies to account?
Context
The RAF housing in Carterton has issues with mould and uncompleted repairs.
Andrew Murrison
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising that. I know Brize quite well and the accommodation that he referred to. He may be aware that all top level budgets are meant to be assessing their accommodation against the Defence housing standard and will report by the end of the year. In the meantime, he should know that over the next 10 years £1.6 billion will be invested in barracks accommodation to improve some of the truly awful accommodation that, sadly, our men and women have to put up with.
Session: Topical Questions
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Vital infrastructure for new homes includes upgrades to the sewerage networks that are needed to service them. Bringing schedule 3 to the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 into effect would remove the automatic right to connect, which would mean extra money to upgrade those systems. The Government are reviewing it, but are they going to do it?
Context
Infrastructure for new homes includes sewerage network upgrades, and a schedule is being reviewed to potentially remove the automatic right to connect.
Lucy Frazer
As my hon. Friend has said, the Government are reviewing it.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am concerned about how the North Carolina trade agreement will help businesses in places such as West Oxfordshire to export to every corner of the United States, our largest trading partner?
Context
The MP asked about the impact of a recent North Carolina trade agreement on local businesses in West Oxfordshire.
Greg Hands
We have now signed three deals. We had an offshore wind delegation meet Governor Cooper of North Carolina. The first meeting of the working group on Indiana discussed state procurement markets in the US. Companies across the UK, including in Oxfordshire, can benefit from these opportunities.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State mentioned a Ukrainian innovation in the use of drones. Are Ministers confident that in this country we have the right resources and regulatory framework in place to ensure that our forces can also benefit?
Context
The Secretary of State mentioned a Ukrainian innovation in the use of drones, prompting questions about whether UK forces have equivalent resources and regulatory frameworks.
Ben Wallace (Minister for Defence)
No, I am not. We need to look at some of those regulations, because one of the things that holds us back too much in innovation, development and deployment is our own regulation. Too much of that holds us back. The Ukrainians obviously do not have that consideration, and they are making amazing steps forward.
Session: Topical Questions
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Access to dentistry is an acute issue for West Oxfordshire. Can Ministers explain what they are doing to help rural areas such as mine, and can we meet to discuss it further?
Context
Access to dentistry is an acute issue for rural areas like West Oxfordshire.
Neil O'Brien
I have mentioned the fact that the number of NHS dentists was up 2% to 2.3% last year, as well as the extra £50 million and the reforms we have made to the contract, but we will go further. We want to address those areas, and particularly rural areas, where more provision is urgently needed.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the integrated review refresh include consideration of the resilience of the RAF's main operating bases, particularly when it comes to dispersal?
Context
The question concerns the RAF's main operating bases' resilience and their ability to disperse operations across civilian airfields in case of emergencies or threats.
James Heappey
As my hon. Friend knows well, although the RAF's main operating bases are incredible centres of excellence for the aircraft they operate, there do indeed need to be well rehearsed plans for dispersing the Air Force across civilian airfields around the country. The RAF is developing and refining those plans as we speak.
Session: Topical Questions
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How well placed is the Food Standards Agency to enforce our high import food standards?
Context
The Minister was asked about the Food Standards Agency's ability to enforce high import food standards.
Greg Hands (Minister of State for Asia Pacific, Trade Policy and Exports)
The Food Standards Agency is extremely well placed on this issue. The chair sent a letter to all parliamentarians about the important work of this non-ministerial Government department.
Session: Topical Questions
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Our armed forces have been active in all corners of the United Kingdom during this crisis. We see this particularly clearly in my own constituency, where the Royal Air Force's transport fleet is based. Would the Secretary of State agree that in the dedication and reach of our armed forces we see the perfect illustration of what our family of nations, this Union, can achieve?
Context
The question highlights the dedication and reach of UK armed forces, particularly in the context of Robert Courts' constituency where RAF transport fleet is based.
Simon Hart (Secretary of State for Wales)
My hon. Friend makes a really good point really well. There are so many examples of where this is the case. In Wales alone, the armed forces have done one fifth of our ambulance shifts and decontaminated more than 2,000 ambulances, without seeking praise, reward or recognition; it is just part of what the armed forces do, and they do it in a fantastically clear, brave and professional manner. The idea that that service could be provided in a broken-up United Kingdom is a complete fantasy. I wish that some of the separatist noises we occasionally hear in the Chamber would recognise that.
Session: Covid-19 Deployment of Military Personnel
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What discussions has he had with the Welsh Government on the deployment of military personnel to Wales in response to the COVID-19 outbreak?
Context
The question addresses the involvement and coordination between UK armed forces and Welsh Government during the pandemic.
Simon Hart (Secretary of State for Wales)
I regularly discuss with the Welsh Government the vital role of the UK's armed forces in supporting Wales in its fight against covid-19. Whether it is getting personal protective equipment to those who need it, establishing testing sites or driving and decontaminating ambulances, the response of our servicemen and women is testament to how strong we are as members of the United Kingdom.
Session: Covid-19 Deployment of Military Personnel
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The Royal Navy is providing a pivotal role in providing medical assistance to British overseas territories. Will the Minister join me in recognising the dedication and skill of the servicemen and women of RFA Argus, which is providing that medical assistance to the Caribbean?
Context
Recognition of the critical role played by the Royal Navy, specifically RFA Argus, in providing medical assistance to British overseas territories.
Wendy Morton (Minister for Asia and the Pacific)
I know that my hon. Friend takes a keen interest in defence matters, and I absolutely do agree that the Royal Navy continues to provide great service to the territories, particularly in the Caribbean. I, too, commend the servicemen and women of RFA Argus, who are providing vital support to the overseas territories. RFA Argus is boosting the resilience of the territories as they prepare for hurricane season.
Session: Covid-19 Overseas Territories
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What steps her Department is taking to support the overseas territories to tackle the covid-19 pandemic?
Context
Inquiry about specific steps taken by the Government to assist British overseas territories in combating the pandemic.
Wendy Morton (Minister for Asia and the Pacific)
We will always stand by the overseas territories. A range of Government Departments, led by DFID and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, are supporting the overseas territories to mitigate the impact of the pandemic. Support includes essential medical supplies, public health advice, security and access support, and financial aid to mitigate the economic impact in the most vulnerable territories.
Session: Covid-19 Overseas Territories
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We urgently need the Environment Agency and Thames Water to work together to clean up the River Windrush. When will the Secretary of State visit to see the river's condition and help me work with these parties?
Context
Concerns about the condition of the River Windrush due to sewage discharge, urging cooperation between Environment Agency and Thames Water.
Rebecca Pow (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
Such incidents are an issue for the Environment Agency, which is the first port of call in a pollution incident. Water companies have water management plans and, under the new Environment Bill, will have to have sewage management plans as well, which will help. Of course I will meet my hon. Friend to discuss the issue.
Session: Topical Questions
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Some of our closest friends and most productive trading relationships have always been in the Commonwealth, and it is time that this was reinvigorated. What are Ministers doing to explore Commonwealth free trade?
Context
The question was raised regarding the importance of Commonwealth nations in UK's trade relationships and the need to explore opportunities for Commonwealth free trade.
Elizabeth Truss (Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
I hosted a meeting in London last year with the Commonwealth Trade Ministers. There is a huge amount of enthusiasm to work more closely together. One of our first priority trade deals will be with Australia and New Zealand. We are also creating a Commonwealth caucus at the World Trade Organisation. Commonwealth countries represent 33% of delegates to the WTO. We can be a real force in making the case for free trade and for small countries not to be overwhelmed by big trading blocs.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State please comment on some of the parts of her proposals that are likely to benefit manufacturing and high-tech companies?
Context
The MP asked about the potential benefits of the US trade deal for manufacturing and high-tech firms.
Elizabeth Truss
One point in our negotiation objectives is an advanced digital and data chapter. This will help 79% of UK services provided remotely, benefiting high-tech industries.
Session: UKUS Free Trade Agreement
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I refer the House to my entry in the Register of Members' Financial Interests. The combat air strategy has led to Team Tempest, a world-leading programme providing not only fast jet capability to replace the Typhoon for the Royal Air Force, but real STEM—science, technology, engineering and maths—inspiration by employing 1,000 people directly. Can the Minister assure me that its position will be secure in the upcoming defence review?
Context
The UK government aims to maintain its defence manufacturing industry through various programmes and strategies.
James Heappey (Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Defence)
The Government will undertake the deepest review of Britain's security, defence and foreign policy since the cold war. The terms of reference will be announced in due course, but the UK combat air strategy that was published in July 2018 will be used to inform the review.
Session: Defence Manufacturing 2020-02-03 (2)
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Defence: Rotary Strategy
29 January 2020
Responding: James Heappey
Main Concerns
['Mr Courts is concerned about the diverse range of UK helicopter fleets across different services, noting that while some aircraft like the Chinook and Apache are less urgent for replacement due to their long service dates extending into the 2040s, others such as the Puma have a much shorter lifespan until around 2025-30. He highlights potential shortfalls in medium-lift capability and the need for consideration of unmanned aircraft capabilities. Additionally, he points out that budgetary pressures on procurement can affect service conditions for military personnel.']
Specific Asks
['Mr Courts asks the government to start thinking about helicopters as part of a broader strategy, calling for an holistic approach similar to the national shipbuilding and combat air strategies. He requests consideration of technological requirements, costs, and timelines for future rotary capabilities.']
Middle East: UK Military Deployments
05 December 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
War in Ukraine
24 October 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Gaza
23 October 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Water Industry: Financial Resilience
28 June 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Global Military Operations
14 June 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
It is fantastic to be able to have this debate on global military operations in Government time. Looking back in Hansard, there was once a time when the House had an annual debate on each of the three...
Integrated Review Refresh
13 March 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
SEND and Alternative Provision
06 March 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Turkey and Syria Earthquakes
01 March 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
09 February 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The review was commissioned by the previous Administration and aims to transition to net zero in an affordable, efficient manner that is pro-business and pro-growth. The report received over 1,800 wri...
Seafarers' Employment (Rights and Recognition) Bill - Clause 18 and new amendments to various clauses
07 February 2023
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Conservative MP Richard Holden moves that the clause be read a Second time, initiating discussions on several new clauses and amendments related to implementation monitoring, personal liability fo...
3
PMQs Asked
25
Ministerial Questions Asked
44
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
15
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
-18% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+87% above average
This MP:
25
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+805% above average
This MP:
44
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+59% above average
This MP:
15
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 Robert Courts's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.