Robin Swann
MP for South Antrim
Ulster Unionist Party
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
In a parliamentary Session that started out with a degree of anticipation, a level of expectation and a promise of change, may I ask why it went so wrong? Was it failure to support our WASPI women, our farmers, or our Northern Ireland veterans and victims of the Northern Ireland troubles?
Context
The question arises from criticism of the government's lack of support for various groups such as WASPI women, farmers, Northern Ireland veterans, and victims of the Troubles.
Keir Starmer
I am very proud—this Government are very proud—of the biggest upgrade in workers' rights in a generation and the biggest upgrade in renters' rights in a generation, and of doing the most any Government have ever done to reduce child poverty. Those measures will have a lasting impact on working people across the United Kingdom.
Assessment
The specific failures mentioned (WASPI women, farmers, Northern Ireland veterans) were not addressed directly.
General Statements About Achievements
Session: PMQs
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Challenging economic inactivity and supporting the vulnerable across the country is something that we all want, so would the Prime Minister be surprised to learn that, in Northern Ireland, around 11,000 people previously supported by UK shared prosperity funding will see those programmes cut dramatically, compounded by 400 job losses? Does he support the cuts to those vital programmes, and will he arrange an urgent meeting for me, and the organisations that have been impacted, with the relevant decision maker in Government so that these changes and challenges can be resolved?
Context
Up to 11,000 people previously supported by UK shared prosperity funding will see these programmes cut dramatically, compounded by job losses.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
We delivered a record settlement for Northern Ireland in the Budget to strengthen public services and to kick-start growth. The local growth fund, designed in partnership with the Executive, will see £45 million every year to support local growth. I am very happy to make sure that Ministers meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss his particular concerns.
Assessment
Whether he supports the cuts was not directly addressed.
Acknowledgment Of Issue, Offered Meeting
Session: PMQs
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Friday the 13th is a date associated with bad things happening. Next Friday, the European Union's general product safety regulation will apply in Northern Ireland, creating more costs and bureaucracy for English, Scottish and Welsh companies that want to do business in Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland consumers buying from them. Many businesses have already stopped supplying Northern Ireland. Haulage companies are unsure of what is required of them. Online sales platforms are divided on the advice they give. A previous Prime Minister promised Northern Ireland businesses that if they were asked to complete additional paperwork, they should phone him and he would “direct them to throw that form in the bin.” What direct, tangible advice can the Prime Minister give to those businesses that want to continue supplying Northern Ireland?
Context
The EU's general product safety regulation is set to apply in Northern Ireland on Friday, potentially creating additional costs and bureaucracy for UK companies trading with Northern Ireland.
Keir Starmer
That is a serious issue and the Government are working closely with businesses to ensure that they are ready for the changes that the hon. Gentleman has identified. We published more guidance yesterday, as he knows, to support them further. We will be keeping a close eye on the issue to help businesses trade freely across the whole of the United Kingdom.
Assessment
The answer did not provide specific advice or clear instructions requested by Robin Swann, focusing instead on general support and ongoing monitoring.
Working Closely With Businesses
Published More Guidance
Session: PMQs
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Since the signing of the Belfast agreement in 1998, more people in Northern Ireland have now sadly lost their lives to suicide than those who were killed during the 30 years of the troubles. Does the Prime Minister agree that the challenges with poor mental health in Northern Ireland, some of which are directly related to the violence of our past, are a unique and pressing legacy of the troubles? Will he therefore commit to tasking his Government to work collaboratively with the Department of Health in Northern Ireland to explore how these issues can be properly recognised and resolved?
Context
Northern Ireland has seen more deaths from suicide than those killed during the troubles, some directly related to past violence. The MP is requesting a commitment to address these issues.
Keir Starmer
I thank the hon. Member for raising that important matter. I do know at first hand the deep impact that the troubles have had on so many in Northern Ireland. We must ensure that those with mental health issues receive the support and the care that they need. Public services are obviously devolved in Northern Ireland, but we will work with the Executive and leaders to support them in delivering better outcomes.
Assessment
The question asked for a specific commitment but received only broad statements about working towards better outcomes without concrete steps or timelines.
Session: PMQs
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The Northern Ireland Executive have been without a budget this year, and in the last six months the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has been engaging with the Executive parties. What latitude or support has the Chancellor given the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to enable a budget to be agreed in Northern Ireland, and what steps will the Government take if the Northern Ireland Executive are unable to set a budget?
Context
The Northern Ireland Executive have been without a budget this year. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has been engaging with the Executive parties.
Emma Reynolds
I can reassure the hon. Gentleman that I am working extremely closely with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland who, as he will know, is in discussions with all the parties in the Northern Ireland Executive. We need to make sure that a budget is set for Northern Ireland so that the Executive can continue to deliver vital local public services.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-09-08
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In his first answer, the Secretary of State said that the recent disorder was a problem that needed to be solved. A fortnight ago, I arranged a roundtable in my constituency that included the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, the police, the Executive Office, the Department for Communities and many other organisations and representative organisations, including the Black Diamond Initiatives. It was apparent that they all had their strategies and their procedures, but what they did not have was a co-ordinated response. They were all looking to the Executive to pull all those organisations together. If dysfunction at the top of our Executive is not allowing that to happen, what actions will the Secretary of State take?
Context
A roundtable meeting was held that included various organizations and representatives, highlighting a lack of coordinated response due to dysfunction at the top of the Northern Ireland Executive.
Hilary Benn
There is a responsibility, above all, on the Northern Ireland Executive to deliver for the people of Northern Ireland. There being no Executive in Northern Ireland for 40% of the time since the Good Friday agreement has not helped to achieve that objective.
Session: Community Cohesion 2026-07-08
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What encouragement can the Secretary of State give young people that youth hubs will be extended to Northern Ireland, considering their current lack of funding?
Context
Voices for Impacts youth advisory group's Glengormley youth centre has been cut to one night per week.
Pat McFadden
The Minister believes youth hubs are applicable to every part of the United Kingdom and encourages young people to know that the Government wants more opportunities for them.
Session: Youth Hubs 2026-06-29
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In an earlier answer, the Minister ruled out a VAT reduction for hospitality businesses across the United Kingdom. Will he at least meet me, Hospitality Ulster and the Northern Ireland Food to Go Association to discuss the concept of a Northern Ireland-specific pilot?
Context
The Minister ruled out a VAT reduction for hospitality businesses across the United Kingdom.
Dan Tomlinson
I would of course meet the hon. Member.
Session: Topical Questions
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Transformation needs to be embedded through a recurrent budget. We are three months into this financial year, at Northern Ireland political speed, and we still do not have a recurrent budget. What steps is the Northern Ireland Office taking to bring about such a financial budget in Northern Ireland?
Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of a recurrent budget in Northern Ireland, which affects its ability to govern effectively.
Matthew Patrick
Not only have we given a record settlement—more than ever before in the Executive's history since devolution—but we are supporting the Executive, having discussions with them and encouraging them to set a budget, so that the people of Northern Ireland can see the improvement in public services that they really need.
Session: Public Service Reform
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Northern Ireland is home to some innovative carbon capture businesses with real export potential, but many UK clean technologies face a gap between successful pilot innovation and that first commercial deployment. What steps are the Government taking to ensure that high-value opportunities can be scaled, thereby supporting jobs, investment and growth? Will the Secretary of State accept an invitation to visit Nuada?
Context
Northern Ireland has innovative carbon capture businesses with export potential.
Michael Shanks
The hon. Gentleman is right to highlight this issue. We have provided funding to support the development of carbon capture projects in Northern Ireland, such as Catagen's biohydrogen reactor in Belfast. We welcome engagement on further carbon capture, usage and storage projects. It is a really important part of decarbonisation, and I am happy to engage on it further.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Foreign Secretary has paid tribute to Sir Olly Robbins multiple times. Can I ask what grounds led to his dismissal and if he had the opportunity to defend himself?
Context
Sir Olly Robbins was dismissed from his position after a security vetting recommendation against him.
Yvette Cooper
Ministers should have been informed about the security vetting recommendation against Peter Mandelson. The Prime Minister spoke to Sir Olly before making the decision.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State commit to publishing their findings?
Context
The MP is questioning the Secretary of State's commitment to publishing findings from the open book exercise on how Departments of Northern Ireland Executive are spending their block grant allocations.
Hilary Benn
There will be a report from the Treasury to the Northern Ireland Executive. It is for the Executive to take the decision, but I say from this Dispatch Box that I would welcome its publication.
Session: Spring Forecast
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May I start by condemning the attack on the ambulances of the Hatzola community ambulance service over the weekend? A core tenet of our system and beliefs is that of civil and religious liberty for all. Does the Minister agree that we all have a role to play in upholding that core British tenet?
Context
An attack on the ambulances of the Hatzola community ambulance service has occurred over the weekend.
Sarah Jones
I join the hon. Gentleman in condemning the attack. The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right that our British values of diversity, tolerance and freedom of religious belief are one of our country's greatest strengths, and we all have a role to play in ensuring that we uphold them everywhere we can.
Session: Public Order Legislation Religious Expression
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What guidance her Department has provided to police forces on the application of public order legislation in relation to the expression of religious beliefs. A core tenet of our system and beliefs is that of civil and religious liberty for all. Does the Minister agree that we all have a role to play in upholding that core British tenet?
Context
The MP is concerned about the application of public order laws in relation to religious beliefs.
Sarah Jones
This Government are committed to building a strong and integrated society where people can express their religious identity without fear of harassment. Guidance is set out by the College of Policing in its professional practice guidance. The Home Secretary has also commissioned Lord Ken Macdonald to undertake an independent review of public order and hate crime legislation, which will consider whether police powers strike the right balance between protecting the public and upholding the right to lawful protest. We look forward to his recommendations soon. I join the hon. Gentleman in condemning the attack on the ambulances of the Hatzola community ambulance service over the weekend. The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right that our British values of diversity, tolerance and freedom of religious belief are one of our country's greatest strengths, and we all have a role to play in ensuring that we uphold them everywhere we can.
Session: Public Order Legislation Religious Expression
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First, can I ask the Solicitor General to please follow up on her kind offer to chase the Justice Minister responsible for legal aid about meeting me to discuss support for domestic abuse victims? The 2024 domestic abuse joint justice plan aims to improve early co-ordination between police and the CPS. However, recent cases highlight concerns about the quality and timeliness of police referrals and CPS decision making. Does the Solicitor General agree that while the plan has improved investigations and prosecutions, a needs-based approach is absolutely essential?
Context
There are concerns about the identification of high-risk victims and the quality and timeliness of police referrals.
Ellie Reeves
I thank the hon. Gentleman for that question—I know he is a strong champion on these issues. He talked about timeliness; the domestic abuse charging authority pilot, which I visited recently in Wales, is showing huge improvements in getting domestic abuse cases to court, which in turn helps with victim attrition. Turning to his point about Cornwall, I am pleased to inform him that from July 2024 to March 2026, the CPS charged over 2,800 offenders with domestic abuse, and over 2,300 were convicted. That includes over 900 convictions in Devon and Cornwall. I will continue to work with the CPS to ensure we are prosecuting VAWG offenders, including in the hon. Gentleman's constituency. I am also happy to take away his request that I chase up the meeting with the Justice Minister.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls Prosecutions
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Did the Secretary of State for Scotland meet with the Scottish Veterans Commissioner regarding the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill? That legislation will significantly impact veterans across the UK, making it crucial for Scotland's involvement and understanding of its effects.
Context
The Northern Ireland Troubles Bill aims to provide accountability for those affected by the troubles. The previous Act did not adequately support veterans in legacy processes.
Kirsty McNeill
I would be delighted to meet with the Scottish Veterans Commissioner, but as the hon. Gentleman will appreciate, the Northern Ireland Office leads on such matters.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles Bill Scottish Veterans
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What discussions has he had with the Scottish Veterans Commissioner regarding the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill? The Bill will affect veterans across the UK, necessitating Scotland's involvement in understanding its implications.
Context
The Northern Ireland Troubles Bill was introduced in October to provide truth and accountability for those affected by the troubles. This question focuses on discussions with the Scottish Veterans Commissioner about its impact.
Kirsty McNeill
I can confirm that the Scottish Veterans Commissioner met the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in December. The Government is committed to delivering truth and accountability through the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill, which will put in place deliverable protections designed in line with human rights obligations.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles Bill Scottish Veterans
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I thank the Minister for meeting me to discuss the concerns raised by the voluntary community sector in Northern Ireland about how the fund will be split between capital and revenue. We are now looking at a fund that is more capital-heavy than revenue-heavy, and the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People has said that the shift towards capital-heavy investment fails to recognise the reality that youth and community work is relational, intensive and people-driven, not infrastructure-driven.
Context
The local growth fund is set to replace the UK shared prosperity fund. There are concerns about how the funding will be allocated between capital and revenue, especially regarding its impact on youth and community work.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
I thank the hon. Gentleman for meeting me with people from parts of the voluntary sector. As he said, local growth funding will direct capital funding into the enabling infrastructure that is required for boosting the Northern Ireland economy. That sits alongside a £19.3 billion spending review settlement and £370 million in Budget funding to the Executive, which has the flexibility to support programmes delivered by the voluntary and community sector.
Session: Northern Ireland Local Growth Fund
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What plans does he have for the delivery of the local growth fund in Northern Ireland? I thank the Minister for meeting me to discuss the concerns raised by the voluntary community sector in Northern Ireland about how the fund will be split between capital and revenue. We are now looking at a fund that is more capital-heavy than revenue-heavy, and the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People has said that the shift towards capital-heavy investment fails to recognise the reality that youth and community work is relational, intensive and people-driven, not infrastructure-driven.
Context
The local growth fund is set to replace the UK shared prosperity fund. There are concerns about how the funding will be allocated between capital and revenue, especially regarding its impact on youth and community work.
Miatta Fahnbulleh
I thank the hon. Gentleman for meeting me with people from parts of the voluntary sector. As he said, local growth funding will direct capital funding into the enabling infrastructure that is required for boosting the Northern Ireland economy. That sits alongside a £19.3 billion spending review settlement and £370 million in Budget funding to the Executive, which has the flexibility to support programmes delivered by the voluntary and community sector.
Session: Northern Ireland Local Growth Fund
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When the Executive were restored two years ago, a fund was set up for the transformation of public services. As of yet, that money has not been fully allocated. Will the Secretary of State use his offices to encourage the Executive to deploy that transformation fund to transform Northern Ireland’s public services?
Context
The MP mentioned a fund set up for the transformation of public services when the Executive were restored two years ago and noted that this money has not been fully allocated. He asked about the Secretary of State's intentions regarding this issue.
Hilary Benn (The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland)
The public services transformation fund is a very important demonstration of the partnership between the UK Government and the Northern Ireland Executive. As the hon. Member will be well aware, the first six projects have been funded, and good progress is being made on them. The transformation board is currently considering bids that are coming in for the next phase of funding. Of course, we are keen—as are the Executive—to see that money spent on transformation of how public services are delivered in Northern Ireland, which is hugely needed.
Session: 2025 Budget
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What discussions has she had with Cabinet colleagues on providing additional funding for the ReImagining Supply Chains Network Plus programme? How do the Government expect that UK Research and Innovation-funded supply chain research will align with city deal investments, such as the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) in my constituency?
Context
The hon. Member for South Antrim held an investment event in Parliament last week, where he and the right hon. Member for Belfast East hosted Antrim and Newtownabbey borough council's first Westminster economic investment showcase.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts (Ian Murray)
I congratulate the hon. Gentleman on his fantastic event in Parliament last week on this subject. I am delighted that Queen’s University Belfast is benefiting from £5 million in funding from the programme, which is part of a £13 million wider package from this Government to support making UK supply chains more resilient. The Government are investing a record £86 billion over the spending review period, which is the largest ever investment in research and development, and Ministers regularly discuss a range of issues with Cabinet colleagues to ensure that those programmes align with wider Government priorities on economic resilience and innovation. UKRI plays a key role in strengthening supply chains, supporting regional innovation hubs and aligning research with local economic development goals. This Government’s funding rounds highlight partnership opportunities, including with the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) where projects can complement those facilities, boosting regional innovation and productivity.
Session: Supply Chain Resilience
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In an earlier answer, the Foreign Secretary said that trade relations between China and the UK were “in our national interest”. To that extent, can I ask what conversations her Department had with Invest Northern Ireland prior to its signing a co-operation framework memorandum of understanding with the China Chamber of Commerce in the UK?
Context
The Foreign Secretary stated that trade relations with China are in the national interest, raising questions about conversations with Invest Northern Ireland.
Seema Malhotra
This Government support UK businesses to do business with China while being open-eyed to any risks.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Minister will know that the Hughes report focused very much on England, but those affected by the redress scheme will be found across the entire United Kingdom. Will he ensure that he engages with Health Ministers from the devolved authorities?
Context
The Hughes report focused on issues related to sodium valproate and pelvic mesh in England, but these issues affect individuals across the United Kingdom.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Dr Zubir Ahmed)
The hon. Gentleman can certainly be given that assurance from me, as the Minister also responsible for four-nation engagement. The Hughes report examined both the sodium valproate and pelvic mesh issues, and I know that these resonate across the four nations, particularly when it comes to licensing and regulation of medical technology. He has that assurance from me.
Session: Hughes Report
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I welcome the Minister’s reassurance. The UK shared prosperity fund is about to come to an end, to be replaced by the local growth fund, and voluntary and community organisations in Northern Ireland have real concerns that they will be left in limbo between one ending and the other starting. I recognise what the Minister just said about the two-year funding pot, but what reassurances can he give those organisations in Northern Ireland that their funding will carry over?
Context
The UK shared prosperity fund is set to end, replaced by the local growth fund. Voluntary and community organisations in Northern Ireland are concerned about a funding gap between the two funds.
Josh Simons (Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
My understanding is that the new funding will start in the new financial year, but I will look into the specific issue the hon. Gentleman raised in relation to Northern Ireland, and I will write to him to reassure him on that.
Session: Voluntary Sector Partnership Working
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May I welcome the Minister to his place as well? Will he ensure that there is that co-working across the Northern Ireland Executive and the Ministry of Defence with regard to the Executive’s investment strategy, which is also integral to the defence industrial strategy, and that the NIE will work to remove any blockages that would prevent the two being merged?
Context
The MP welcomes the Minister to his place and highlights the importance of merging investment strategy with defence industrial strategy.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Matthew Patrick)
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his warm words. I will meet Executive Ministers in Northern Ireland next week to discuss this and other matters. I will ensure that we remove any blockages that we can, and that we do so by working together.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy
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What assessment has been made of the potential impact of industrial action on NHS services, noting that during past resident doctors' strikes elective procedures were usually postponed but now the chief executive of NHS England instructs hospitals to continue these procedures?
Context
The question follows previous strikes that cost £1.7 billion and rescheduled 1.5 million appointments. Strikes are imminent this week.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
NHS leaders have determined that past strikes caused wider harm than previously realised, so routine operations are to continue. Local NHS leaders will decide what is possible given staffing levels. The approach aims to keep priority treatments going without treating planned care as less important.
Session: Industrial Action
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Robin Swann noted that the apprenticeship levy is collected equally across the UK but returned to Northern Ireland under the Barnett formula. He asked whether there could be an option for employers who contribute to the levy to draw funds back directly to support apprentices employed in their companies.
Context
The question concerns the distribution of funds collected through the apprenticeship levy in Northern Ireland, where Robin Swann is concerned about the effectiveness of the current system.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Janet Daby)
Janet Daby thanked Swann for his question and acknowledged that skills are devolved matters with funding responsibilities lying with the Northern Ireland government. She stated they will continue to engage with the devolved administrations as they develop a levy-funded growth and skills offer for England.
Session: Post-16 Education Skills
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Hugh’s law would have brought in job protection and financial support for parents of children aged between 29 days and 16 years and guaranteed parental leave while those children were receiving palliative care. The Government voted down an amendment last night to the Employment Rights Bill that would have brought that in. This campaign has been fought by Ceri and Frances Menai-Davis, and many Government Back-Bench MPs have stood side by side with them through that campaign. Why has the Minister turned his back on those parents and those children?
Context
Hugh's Law, which was proposed to provide job protection and financial support for parents of children receiving palliative care, was rejected by the Government during a vote on the Employment Rights Bill. This decision affects many families who have campaigned for this change.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Justin Madders)
We are not turning our back on parents or children. We are actually having the biggest expansion in workers’ rights and family-friendly policies that we have seen in a generation. Clearly, we will not be able to satisfy every issue in this area, but that is the point of the review. We are looking at the system in the round. It needs improving and modernising and that is what we intend to do.
Session: Parental Leave
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While we await the detail of the SPS deal, Northern Ireland is still seeing new and additional bureaucracy to implement the Windsor framework. Does the Minister agree that it would make more sense to extend the grace periods and put a freeze on that bureaucracy rather than introduce more, as indicated in the report by the Federation of Small Businesses in Northern Ireland?
Context
The MP questions the implementation of grace periods and additional bureaucracy in relation to Northern Ireland's trade with the EU.
Nick Thomas-Symonds (Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office)
On our ability to negotiate generally, it is hugely important that we show good faith in implementing the agreement that the country previously agreed. However, I say to the hon. Gentleman that I always show pragmatism on implementing the Windsor framework. If we take parcels, for example, when I went to Belfast last summer I was told that there was no readiness for businesses there, but I applied for and secured a six-month delay, and then implemented that part of the agreement, so he can be assured that I take a pragmatic approach.
Session: Relations with the European Union
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Developers are now creating facility and management companies, with new homeowners and tenants finding themselves as shareholders without their consent. Will the Minister look at that issue across the country to protect those homeowners?
Context
Swann raised the issue of developers creating facility and management companies with new homeowners becoming shareholders without their consent.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
If I have understood the hon. Gentleman correctly, he pointed to how a variety of arrangements can be put in place under freehold estates; we need to capture that variety across the country. That is one of the challenges in looking at what measures we might bring forward to reduce the prevalence of such arrangements, and we certainly intend to do that.
Session: Leasehold Reform
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Carers UK reports that unpaid carers are still receiving debt notices over carer’s allowance. Between May 2024 and February 2025, the number of notices increased by 9,000, so we are now talking about 144,000 people. Will the Secretary of State halt the creation of those overpayment debts until her independent review has taken place and the recommendations are implemented?
Context
Unpaid carers are receiving debt notices over carers’ allowance, leading to an increase in overpayments.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
The hon. Gentleman is right that there has been a problem over a long period with overpayments—often inadvertent—of carer’s allowance. That is why my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State appointed Liz Sayce to undertake her independent review. I know she is making good progress, and I have regularly kept in touch with her. We are looking forward to receiving her recommendations, which will cover those who have been affected, and will recommend changes for the future, too.
Session: Topical Questions
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£50 million has been spent on PIP appeals in the past year alone, and over 70% of those appeals have been successful, indicating that many people are being wrongly denied benefits initially. What steps are Ministers taking to improve the system and make it more accessible for those undergoing the appeal process?
Context
Data shared by Dermot Devlin from Disabled People Against Cuts shows £50 million spent on PIP appeals in the past year, with over 70% of those appeals successful. This highlights concerns about the accuracy and fairness of initial assessments leading to high appeal success rates.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)
I would like to have a conversation with the hon. Gentleman about the assessment process and mandatory reconsideration process, but I do not recognise those statistics. Appeals are down by 16% on the previous year to January 2025. Around 20% of applications undergo mandatory reconsiderations, yet only around 5% of these are successful.
Session: Personal Independence Payment Assessments
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What practical steps is the Minister taking to protect Northern Ireland farmers, especially in regard to the recent announcement of a case of African swine fever on 2 May in Slovakia, within the same geographical area as those foot and mouth outbreaks?
Context
Northern Ireland faces the risk of foot and mouth disease entering from Slovakia and Hungary where confirmed cases exist. The Agriculture Minister in Northern Ireland no longer has responsibility for this issue which now falls under the Environment Secretary.
The Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs (Daniel Zeichner)
We work closely with the Minister in Northern Ireland for exactly the reasons that he would expect. We take this extremely seriously. There are a range of threats in Europe, and that is why we have not only put in place the long-established and well-trialled measures but added additional protection measures to ensure that we are properly protected.
Session: Foot and Mouth Disease
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As the Minister will know, employers in Northern Ireland pay substantially into the apprenticeship levy but have no direct access to it. What steps is the Minister taking to enable them to receive direct benefits through the levy, so that we too can enjoy the benefits of which she spoke in her answer when she was having a dig at the Conservative party?
Context
Employers in Northern Ireland pay significantly into the apprenticeship levy but do not have direct access to it. Apprenticeship funding is a devolved matter.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Janet Daby)
As I am sure the hon. Member knows, skills are a devolved matter, and funding in the devolved Administrations remains the responsibility of those Governments. However, we will continue to engage with them as we deliver the levy-funded growth and skills offer for England.
Session: Apprenticeship Funding
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What assessment has the Minister made of the adequacy of support available to Scottish plant and seed nurseries to sell products to Northern Ireland? McIntyre Fruit finds it easier to supply Japan than send plants to Coleman’s garden centre in South Antrim, and orders are being cancelled due to administrative issues. Ewing’s Seafoods had a container of fresh fish returned from Belfast to Scotland.
Context
McIntyre Fruit in Scotland reported it is easier to supply Japan than send plants to Coleman’s garden centre in South Antrim. The company has seen orders cancelled due to administrative paperwork errors. Ewing’s Seafoods had a container of fresh fish returned from Belfast to Scotland.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
I would be delighted to meet the hon. Gentleman, but let me reassure him: the horticultural working group, co-chaired by senior officials from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Cabinet Office, was set up specifically to tackle issues involving the movement of seeds to consumers in Northern Ireland as a first priority. The working group meets regularly to address such issues, and includes representatives of the Ulster Farmers Union, the National Farmers Union and the Horticultural Trades Association, as well as business leaders and representatives of a small number of other horticultural businesses.
Session: Plant and Seed Nurseries Northern Ireland
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In January, a Minister in the Foreign Office said that they would challenge the Northern Ireland Executive to be more robust in their reporting of international affairs and meetings. At the start of this month, the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister met again with the Chinese consul, but still no details of that meeting or previous meetings have been reported or shared. Has that challenge been made, and what was the response?
Context
A Minister in the Foreign Office had previously challenged the Northern Ireland Executive to be more robust in their reporting of international affairs and meetings. Recent meetings between the First Minister, Deputy First Minister, and the Chinese consul have not been reported or shared.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Catherine West)
We regularly engage with Northern Ireland on all matters of foreign policy. However, this Chinese consular matter is not something that Ministers can discuss at the Dispatch Box.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Secretary of State for his answer. Just over a year ago, the former Health Secretary wrote to counterparts in the devolved Administrations to offer patients from Wales and Scotland who were experiencing lengthy waits the option of treatment by providers in England. The offer was declined, as it was seen as a political stunt. Would the Secretary of State consider reviewing that offer, but this time including Northern Ireland, so that his call to offer the best of the NHS to the rest of the NHS can be shared across the entire nation?
Context
One year ago, the former Health Secretary offered patients from Wales and Scotland experiencing long waits treatment by providers in England, but this offer was declined as it was perceived as a political stunt. The question aims to reconsider this offer, now including Northern Ireland.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)
I am absolutely committed to our working across the whole of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on cross-border working and co-operation, where we can. I have had constructive conversations, particularly with my counterpart in Wales, to that effect, and I would be delighted to work with my counterpart in Northern Ireland in the same spirit. Despite our differing views on the future of the United Kingdom, I have had equally constructive discussions with my counterpart in Scotland, although he may not thank me for mentioning it.
Session: Waiting Lists Devolved Administrations
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Rural crime is a scourge across the entirety of the United Kingdom. What discussions has the Secretary of State had with her Cabinet colleagues on ensuring a consistent approach to tackling rural crime across the UK?
Context
Rural crime is a significant issue across the United Kingdom, affecting various regions including Wales.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
We were elected on a manifesto that included a mission for safer streets across every nation of the United Kingdom. We will put police back on the beat, ensure there is a named officer for every neighbourhood, and provide 13,000 additional officers, police community support officers and special constables in neighbourhood roles in England and Wales. The provisional police funding settlement has been increased this year by up to £1 billion.
Session: Crime Prevention
View All Questions -->
The voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland has said that the reduction in shared prosperity funding available in the next financial year, coupled with the increase in employer national insurance contributions, presents a perfect storm at a time when even more is being asked of it. Will the Minister agree to meet me, members of the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action and representatives of the voluntary and community sector to discuss those issues?
Context
The voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland has expressed concerns about the reduction in shared prosperity funding coupled with an increase in employer national insurance contributions, leading to significant challenges for local organizations.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Alex Norris)
We inherited a situation in which the previous Government had not made any money available for that work. I have no doubt that the transition year creates significant challenges for local organisations. I have visited South Antrim before and met representatives of some organisations, and I would be delighted to do so again.
Session: UK Shared Prosperity Fund Northern Ireland
View All Questions -->
What is the hold-up in spending the £235 million allocated by the Government for public service transformation in Northern Ireland?
Context
A £235 million budget for transformation that has not been spent to date.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Fleur Anderson)
I thank the hon. Member for raising the issue of the Public Service Transformation Board. As he says, the interim board has a £235 million budget for transformation. Several major projects—on health, special educational needs and justice—are now being sent to the Northern Ireland Minister of Finance for agreement, and I have pushed for the full board to be set up by the end of this financial year. I agree that it needs to move ahead and get those projects done.
Session: Public Services
View All Questions -->
I join the Minister in his opening comments. The 250th anniversary of the declaration of independence presents a unique opportunity to promote cultural and historical links between Northern Ireland and the United States, because at least five signatories of the declaration have direct Ulster links. The declaration itself was printed by an Ulster Scot—John Dunlap from Strabane. The great seal of the United States was designed by Charles Thomson from Upperlands, and 17 of the US Presidents can claim Ulster Scots roots. However, the Government’s introduction of an electronic travel authorisation scheme will have a devastating impact on tourism.
Context
The MP references historical ties between Ulster and the United States, noting specific individuals with direct connections to Northern Ireland who played significant roles in American history. This includes John Dunlap from Strabane, Charles Thomson from Upperlands, and 17 US Presidents with Ulster Scots roots.
Stephen Doughty (Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
We learn new things every day. I am delighted to hear about the heritage of the hon. Gentleman’s part of the world in relation to the United States. My own family dates back to the late 1700s in Pennsylvania—we are not sure which side they fought on. Later, my grandfather came over during the second world war to fight alongside us against Nazi tyranny in Europe. Those special relationships are part of all our communities and families, and we absolutely want to celebrate them across all our countries.
Session: US Declaration of Independence 250th Anniversary
View All Questions -->
A nurse was stabbed in an emergency department in Oldham over the weekend. Will the Home Secretary join me in condemning any attack on our health and social care workers, and especially the one at the weekend?
Context
A nurse was stabbed in an emergency department in Oldham over the weekend.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Yvette Cooper)
The hon. Member makes an extremely important point. Our public servants, particularly our nursing and medical staff, work to save lives, support people and help patients. They do so trusting that the people who come to see them are asking for their help. He is right to talk about the devastating attack at the Oldham hospital, and we are all thinking about the nurse and all those working in the hospital, as well as about the police investigation that I know is under way.
Session: Knife Crime
View All Questions -->
Early diagnosis saves lives. Randox in my constituency runs a number of NHS health checks from the Isle of Wight through to Lanarkshire. Will the Secretary of State encourage greater use of those checks, and will he visit Randox with me to see how we can further advance that technology?
Context
The MP asked for support in encouraging greater use of health checks run by Randox and invited the Secretary to visit Randox to see how they can advance technology.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)
I confirm that I have been working with the Health Secretary—indeed, we recently visited St Tommy’s across the road from here to see how new technology is being used in diagnostics. It is increasing the number of scans and improving the quality of those scans to diagnose disease early and prevent it from having the worst outcome. That is being rolled out across the country, and I am working closely with the Health Secretary to ensure that such innovations are put to good use for the country.
Session: NHS Diagnostic Processes Technological Innovation
View All Questions -->
Defence spend with Northern Ireland small and medium-sized enterprises last year accounted for only £3 million. What will the Secretary of State and the Minister do to proactively increase that spend with Northern Ireland SMEs?
Context
The hon. Gentleman raises the issue of defence spend with Northern Ireland small and medium-sized enterprises, which last year accounted for only £3 million.
Maria Eagle
The hon. Gentleman makes an important point. I hope that our defence industrial strategy, in enabling SMEs to access contracts and work for the MOD more easily, will increase that number substantially.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Northern Ireland Hospitality Sector
15 July 2026
Responding: Dan Tomlinson
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the significant challenges facing the hospitality sector in Northern Ireland due to rising energy costs, inflation, increased national insurance contributions, and a cost of living crisis that reduces disposable income. Statistics show the sector contributes approximately £1.4 billion to the economy, accounts for 2.5% of economic activity, and supports roughly 50,000 jobs. The competitive imbalance with the Republic of Ireland, which has a lower VAT rate, adds further pressure.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to establish a reduced VAT pilot for hospitality businesses in Northern Ireland to help protect jobs, strengthen tourism, and demonstrate that creative economic policy can unlock economic potential. This proposal is supported across political and commercial sectors.']
Veterinary Medicines: Northern Ireland
03 December 2025
Responding: Emma Hardy
Main Concerns
["Northern Ireland's farming, veterinary and animal welfare sectors are facing a potential crisis due to the end of the veterinary medicines grace period on December 31. More than 19,000 vets from across the UK signed a joint letter urging Government action. The British Veterinary Association warns that up to 50% of veterinary medicines could be withdrawn from Northern Ireland with serious consequences."]
Specific Asks
['The hon. Member calls for urgent, targeted support from the UK Government and clarity on how online pharmacies will function post-grace period end.']
Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner
15 October 2024
Responding: Fleur Anderson
Main Concerns
["Mr Robin Swann expressed concern over the Northern Ireland Veterans' Commissioner's resignation, highlighting issues such as lack of operational independence, inadequate support for veterans due to a limited database and absence of door-to-door leafleting campaigns, challenges in accessing healthcare, and the closure of the Veterans Support Office. He emphasized that the commissioner faced restrictions on staffing decisions, reporting directly to NIO rather than having control over staff performance evaluations."]
Specific Asks
['Mr Swann recommended establishing full independence for the office from the Northern Ireland Office (NIO), increasing the time allocation for the commissioner to a full-time role, reinstating the Veterans Support Office as an independent body, and improving reporting and communication with direct access to relevant Ministers and Departments.']
Air Traffic Control Disruption
10 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Northern Ireland Office
29 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate addresses the lack of an agreed budget for Northern Ireland, with Departments forced to rely on emergency contingency powers. The Finance Minister's draft multi-year budget remains unresolv...
Farming Road Map and Profitability Review
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Steel Tariffs
17 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Social Media Ban for Under-16s
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defence Investment Plan
15 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Belfast: Violent Disorder
10 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
North Belfast: Violent Attack
09 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Health and Social Care Bill
01 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, James Murray, moved the Second Reading of the Health and Social Care Bill. He emphasised the personal significance of the NHS in his life due to a ra...
Dunmurry Police Station Attack
27 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Family farm tax
24 February 2025
The petition calls for the government to uphold inheritance tax reliefs for family farms, specifically Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief, which are under threat due to recent r...
View Full Petition -->
Family farm tax
28 January 2025
The petition addresses the negative impact of removing agricultural property relief and business property relief on inheritance tax for family farms in Northern Ireland, highlighting disparities in st...
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
77.6%
76 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
47
48.0% of votes
No Votes
29
29.6% of votes
Abstentions
22
22.4% 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
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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 AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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 AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
4
PMQs Asked
47
Ministerial Questions Asked
120
House of Commons Debates Involved
3
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
2
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+9% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+251% above average
This MP:
47
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+19% above average
This MP:
3
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2369% above average
This MP:
120
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-18% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+12% above average
This MP:
77.6
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 Robin Swann's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.