Sarah Coombes
MP for West Bromwich
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
One of the biggest issues in my constituency is poor access to GP services. Our GP satisfaction rate is 15% below the national average. I thank the Government for their focus on improving the situation. What are they doing to ensure that everyone in West Bromwich can actually see their GP?
Context
The GP satisfaction rate in the constituency is below national average.
Keir Starmer
The most visible sign of the failure of the last Government was the NHS. We are going to expand the role of community pharmacies and accelerate the roll-out of independent prescribers. We need much more care to be delivered in local communities so that problems can be spotted earlier, and we will train thousands more GPs.
Assessment
Specific measures for West Bromwich
Broad Statements
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
While acknowledging improvements at the Oakham surgery, can the Government ensure that all different types of GP models are carefully scrutinised and regulated to guarantee good care for all constituents across rural areas?
Context
The Oakham surgery, part of Your Health Partnership, has struggled to provide adequate care despite improvements.
Stephen Kinnock
My hon. Friend is a tireless advocate for her constituents, and she is absolutely right that patient outcome is more important than the model. Practices are regulated by the CQC, and local ICBs take action if services do not meet reasonable needs.
Session: General Practice Partnership Model 2026-07-14
View All Questions -->
My constituents who identify as trans are contacting me daily since the Supreme Court judgment and the code of practice was published. One has told me he feels entirely pushed out of public life and has had to leave his job due to customer harassment, making finding a new job nearly impossible. Does the Minister perceive this as an intended or unintended consequence of the draft guidance?
Context
The question is prompted by the anxiety and challenges faced by transgender individuals due to recent legal developments, including the Supreme Court judgment and Equality and Human Rights Commission guidance.
Olivia Bailey
I have said how greatly I recognise the significant anxiety felt by some in the trans community at the moment. The Supreme Court was extremely clear that trans people's rights and protections against discrimination and harassment are protected in law, and the Government will defend and extend trans people's rights.
Session: Discrimination against Trans People
View All Questions -->
I recently spoke to a trans woman at my coffee morning. She was in tears as she feels that life for trans people in Britain has gone backwards. She was always able to live and work in peace and dignity but feels her right to do so has been severely impacted, especially due to the Equality and Human Rights Commission guidance on toilets. Can the Minister reassure me and my constituent that this Government will fight to protect the rights of trans people in Britain?
Context
The question arises from concerns expressed by a constituent who feels that life for transgender individuals in Britain has become more difficult, particularly regarding employment opportunities and public spaces like toilets.
Olivia Bailey
I am so sorry to hear from my hon. Friend about the experience of her constituent, and I recognise how much anxiety there is in the trans community at the moment. Let me be clear that trans people's rights against discrimination and harassment are protected in law—a fact underlined by the Supreme Court judgment. This Government are committed to defending and extending the rights of trans people in this country, including by equalising hate crime law and improving healthcare.
Session: Discrimination against Trans People
View All Questions -->
Does she agree that campaigners who have fought hard deserve thanks for bringing to light something shrouded in misplaced shame?
Context
Campaigners have worked for a long time to secure an apology for forced adoptions, seen as a shameful period in history.
Bridget Phillipson
The Secretary of State agrees and will soon make a full apology on behalf of the state to all those affected, recognising the courage, bravery, and persistence of campaigners in bringing this period out of the shadows.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Eaton Valley primary school in West Bromwich has enthusiastically embraced net zero by installing solar panels and a battery. The Government have supported them with financial aid. Will the Government roll out similar schemes for schools in Black Country?
Context
Eaton Valley primary school has installed solar panels and a battery to store power, saving money on energy bills.
Bridget Phillipson
Yes, we will. We are rolling out the GB Energy solar programme to around 350 schools and colleges. We are also unlocking private finance investment in solar and energy efficiency for schools and colleges, with pilots planned for later this year.
Session: Schools Funding
View All Questions -->
I am concerned about the levels of funding for schools and would like to know what specific steps you are taking with Cabinet colleagues to further increase these funds.
Context
The core schools budget is increasing by £1.7 billion this year, but the questioner seeks more details on steps being taken to increase funding.
Bridget Phillipson
I am pleased to say that this Government are driving record investment in our schools, with the core schools budget increasing by £1.7 billion this year. That includes funding that allows us to reform the special educational needs and disabilities system, training our teachers, making our schools more inclusive, and ensuring that every child can achieve and thrive.
Session: Schools Funding
View All Questions -->
I was grateful to the Secretary of State for visiting Kenrick Way in my constituency last year, which is used as a racetrack by dangerous car cruisers, making residents' lives hell. I have been campaigning for a camera to be installed there, which finally happened a few weeks ago, and I found out yesterday that it has already caught people driving at 125 mph along this residential road. Other countries install technology to limit speeds for repeat offenders, so can the Secretary of State set out what kind of technological solutions we are looking at to limit speeds for repeat dangerous drivers in this country?
Context
The MP highlights the dangerous driving and speeding issues at Kenrick Way in her constituency.
Heidi Alexander
I recall the visit to my hon. Friend's constituency, where I met her and the west midlands police and crime commissioner, Simon Foster. The Government are considering whether to mandate alcolocks in cars in cases of repeat and high-risk drink-driving offenders. My hon. Friend raises an interesting question about whether technological solutions could also be applied in cases of dangerous street racers. I will ask officials in my Department to do more work on what the possibilities are.
Session: Road Safety
View All Questions -->
I was grateful to the Secretary of State for visiting Kenrick Way in my constituency last year, which is used as a racetrack by dangerous car cruisers, making residents' lives hell. I have been campaigning for a camera to be installed there, which finally happened a few weeks ago, and I found out yesterday that it has already caught people driving at 125 mph along this residential road. Other countries install technology to limit speeds for repeat offenders, so can the Secretary of State set out what kind of technological solutions we are looking at to limit speeds for repeat dangerous drivers in this country?
Context
The MP is concerned about road safety in her constituency, particularly the dangerous driving incidents at Kenrick Way.
Heidi Alexander
I recall the visit to my hon. Friend's constituency, where I met her and the west midlands police and crime commissioner, Simon Foster. The Government are considering whether to mandate alcolocks in cars in cases of repeat and high-risk drink-driving offenders. My hon. Friend raises an interesting question about whether technological solutions could also be applied in cases of dangerous street racers. I will ask officials in my Department to do more work on what the possibilities are.
Session: Road Safety
View All Questions -->
Given that electrification is essential to the UK's energy future, what role will different types of energy company have in investing in infrastructure for that transition?
Context
Coombes highlights the growing importance of the net-zero economy and its current value, questioning about the role different types of companies will play in investing in necessary infrastructure.
Katie White
Since July 2024, we have secured £90 billion of investment in the UK within the clean energy sector. The CBI report says that this sector is now supporting nearly 1 million jobs in the UK.
Session: Climate-related Transition Plan
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to ensure the effective implementation of his Department's climate-related transition plan?
Context
Sarah Coombes is seeking clarity on steps being taken to ensure effective execution of the government's climate plan.
Katie White
This Government have consulted on our manifesto commitment to introduce transition plan requirements for UK regulated financial institutions and large companies, and my Department will publish our response to that consultation shortly.
Session: Climate-related Transition Plan
View All Questions -->
The future of the car industry is in electric and automated vehicles, and the west midlands and the UK have always been leaders in car manufacturing across the world. Can the Minister say more about what we are doing to protect the industry and ensure that its future lies in the UK?
Context
The automotive manufacturing sector is a key part of the west midlands economy and has traditionally been a leader globally. There are concerns about the future direction and protection of this industry.
Chris McDonald
Automotive manufacturing is a key part of our advanced manufacturing sector, supported by initiatives such as signing a memorandum of understanding with Wayve. The UK aims to be Europe's first market for digital driving services.
Session: Industrial Strategy
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister say more about how women will be supported in cases where they are victims of horrific sexual attacks and racial hatred was also involved? These two recent cases shocked the black country community deeply.
Context
Two Sikh women were raped in racially aggravated assaults, shocking the entire community. A Reform party election candidate celebrated these attacks but has since stood down.
Catherine Atkinson
The Government are committed to supporting victims not only with £550 million for victim support services but also by introducing independent legal advisers for adult rape victims.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Football fans in my area are looking forward to the world cup and many hope to travel, but before we get to that competition, many are very concerned by reports of a potential points deduction for West Bromwich Albion due to allegations of financial rule breaches. Given Albion's recent run of seven unbeaten games, keeping us just above the relegation zone, a points deduction sending us down would be heartbreaking for fans. Does the Secretary of State agree that such a situation is awful for fans and can she urge that it is resolved as quickly as possible?
Context
There are concerns in the MP's constituency about a potential points deduction for West Bromwich Albion due to financial rule breaches. The club has strongly rejected these allegations, and the team is currently just above the relegation zone.
Lisa Nandy
My hon. Friend will know that having been through some very difficult times with my own superb football club, Wigan Athletic, I know how much this matters to people in West Brom. This is precisely why we delivered the Football Governance Act 2025, which clearly sets out the need to protect the integrity and sporting competitiveness of existing competitions.
Session: World Cup Support for Fans
View All Questions -->
Last week, the Sikh community in Sandwell was rocked by a second appalling attack at Guru Nanak gurdwara. For the second time, the gurdwara faced a racist attack in which someone dropped a bag of meat on the doorstep. Given that meat is strictly banned inside the gurdwara, this was deeply offensive. As this was a repeat attack, will the Minister meet me to talk about what we can do to stop this anti-Sikh hate and make the gurdwara safe?
Context
The Sikh community in Sandwell faced a second racist attack at Guru Nanak gurdwara, where meat was dropped on the doorstep despite it being strictly banned inside. This incident highlights ongoing issues with anti-Sikh hate.
Alison McGovern
I thank my hon. Friend for telling the House about this appalling incident, which we all agree is absolutely terrible. Racial and religious hate is completely unacceptable. I am sure that her constituents will be glad to know that the Prime Minister is here to hear what has happened. The Government support such organisations. I will make sure that the Minister for community cohesion—the Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, my hon. Friend the Member for Peckham (Miatta Fahnbulleh)—meets my hon. Friend.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Scams are devastating for the victims in my constituency, but serious fraud is insidious and is undermining the UK economy. Given the Serious Fraud Office recently found that just 10% of fraud referrals are coming from whistleblowers, what more are the Government doing to empower whistleblowers to come forward and to protect them when they do?
Context
The MP addresses serious fraud and its impact on the UK economy, highlighting that only 10% of fraud referrals come from whistleblowers.
Ellie Reeves
I recognise the vital role that whistleblowers play in uncovering serious economic crime, and the need to ensure that they are properly protected and supported when they come forward. Through the recently launched UK anti-corruption strategy, the Government have committed to exploring opportunities to reform the UK whistleblowing framework, including through potential financial incentives.
Session: Serious Fraud Office
View All Questions -->
What assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the Serious Fraud Office. Over the past five years, the SFO has secured more than half a billion pounds through deferred prosecution agreements, sentencing outcomes and proceeds of crime orders, including recently securing guilty pleas from three former directors, who defrauded over 3,000 UK investors in a £70 million green investment fraud.
Context
The MP seeks an assessment on how effective the SFO has been in recent years.
Ellie Reeves
I would like to pay tribute to Nick Ephgrave for his dedication, professionalism and tenacity during his tenure as director of the Serious Fraud Office. Over the past five years, the SFO has secured more than half a billion pounds through deferred prosecution agreements, sentencing outcomes and proceeds of crime orders, including recently securing guilty pleas from three former directors, who defrauded over 3,000 UK investors in a £70 million green investment fraud.
Session: Serious Fraud Office
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister work with the Department for Transport to change these mad signage rules and support hospitality and EV charging?
Context
There are arcane rules preventing EV signage on motorways, making it difficult for EV drivers to find charging and hospitality facilities.
Kate Dearden
We are working with local authorities to make it easier to provide signage to charging facilities on local roads. In a move to help EV drivers to plug in to the rapidly expanding charging network, the Government are also modernising EV charging signage on major A roads, allowing larger EV charging hubs to be signposted from major A roads.
Session: Hospitality Sector
View All Questions -->
The situation we inherited at the election, with one in eight young people not in education or employment, is a national scandal and I am glad that this Government will put it right. In West Brom, there are lots of opportunities in the manufacturing sector, but lots of young people often think of a different reality when they think of factories. In fact, many of the jobs are high quality, well paid and involve modern machinery and robotics, and are not the back-breaking work that many think it is. What are the Government doing to ensure that jobcentres connect young people with the opportunities in all different sectors, particularly in manufacturing?
Context
One in eight young people are not in education or employment, and there are many opportunities in the manufacturing sector in West Bromwich.
Diana R. Johnson
My hon. Friend is exactly right. This is why we need to ensure that jobcentres have really good engagement with local employers, including manufacturers. She will be pleased to know that there will be an employer roundtable at the Manufacturing Centre in West Bromwich on 17 March, with Sandwell college and manufacturing employers. There will also be an employer breakfast on 29 April, again at Sandwell college, about jobcentres and what they can offer, particularly around SWAPS—sector-based work academy programmes—and manufacturing SWAPS, which are so important.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Thanks to the policies of the Labour Treasury team, Sandwell will receive £1.5 million to smarten up our towns. Does the Chancellor agree that local people should have a say in how that funding is spent, and will she encourage people in Rowley, West Bromwich and Oldbury to fill in my survey about how we spend this Government cash?
Context
The hon. Member notes that Sandwell is set to receive £1.5 million from the Government's Pride in Place initiative, and seeks assurance that local communities will have a say in how this money is spent.
Rachel Reeves
I very much encourage people in my hon. Friend’s constituency to fill in her survey. The Pride in Place money, which we are allocating across some of the most deprived parts of the country, will make a huge difference in regenerating areas left behind by the previous Government. I encourage everyone in all our communities to get involved and shape those plans because they can only be improved by direct contact with the people who stand to benefit from them most.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What can be done about such abductions? Will the Minister meet the MP to discuss how to return the girls home?
Context
A mother from the questioner’s constituency reported her daughters were abducted by their father and taken out of the country, likely to Afghanistan or Pakistan.
Hamish Falconer
We will set out what can be done about abductions. I am willing to meet the MP to discuss how we get these girls home.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I have heard heartbreaking stories of women from my constituency who have waited years for their abuser to be brought to trial. The crisis that has developed in our courts is having a devastating impact on victims. Given that many of the previous reforms to judge, jury and magistrate trials over the past 50 years were also intended to speed up the system, will the Secretary of State outline how these proposed changes will fix the broken system and deliver swift justice for victims?
Context
Heartbreaking stories of women waiting years for their abuser to be brought to trial.
David Lammy (The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice)
I am grateful to my hon. Friend. First, we need investment and more sitting days. We did not get that under the last Government—we are getting that now. Secondly, we need reform. We asked Sir Brian Leveson to look at this in great detail. He did that, and we must now respond and not shirk from the reform that is necessary. Thirdly, we need modernisation. That is why, for example, being able to get a transcript and a recording at magistrates is so important.
Session: Jury Trials Proposal Impact
View All Questions -->
Five primary schools in Sandwell now have free breakfast clubs, including St Mary Magdalene, which I visited earlier this year, and I was delighted to hear the Secretary of State announce that 2,000 more primary schools would benefit next year. Can the Minister say more about how the free breakfast clubs in primary schools that Labour has introduced are helping children and families across our country?
Context
Five primary schools in Sandwell now have free breakfast clubs, and the Secretary of State announced that 2,000 more primary schools would benefit next year.
The Minister for Equalities (Olivia Bailey)
Breakfast clubs give children a great start to the day. They drive improvements in behaviour, attendance and attainment, and they can save families up to £450 a year. I congratulate my hon. Friend and the schools in her constituency on their efforts, and I look forward to more and more children benefiting as we continue our roll-out.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I recently spoke to a roads policing officer about drivers who use illegal number plates, such as ghost number plates that cannot be read by police and speed cameras. He told me: ‘The scale at which this problem now exists is frightening. These plates are on every street, in every town and they are being used to openly commit offences and evade capture, in the knowledge there’s very little we can do about it. The problem is only getting worse, posing huge danger on our roads. We need to toughen up the law urgently’. Will the Minister set out the action she is taking to increase the penalties for using these ghost plates to at least £1,000 and six penalty points, and put an end to this number plate wild west that is endangering our streets?
Context
The question arises from concerns raised by a roads policing officer regarding the use of ghost number plates which cannot be read by police and speed cameras, posing significant safety risks.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Lilian Greenwood)
My hon. Friend is a great campaigner, and she is right to continue to highlight this issue. It is already illegal to sell and display that type of number plate, but I recognise that there is more to do. The DVLA is working with the National Police Chiefs’ Council, the Home Office, various police forces and trading standards on the supply and use of these illegal number plates, and implementing stricter penalties and fines will be considered as part of our work on the new road safety strategy.
Session: Vehicle Registration Compliance
View All Questions -->
I am concerned about the steps being taken to ensure that the NHS adopts all available technology and reform measures to expedite patient care. Given the reduction in waiting times by 10% since the election, what further measures are being planned to leverage technology such as ambient AI to automate doctors’ notes?
Context
Labour has been focusing on NHS reforms, including reducing waiting lists and introducing modern technology. Sarah Coombes references specific improvements at Sandwell and West Birmingham hospitals.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Pat McFadden)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. There is huge potential to increase NHS productivity through the adoption of new technology and AI. We have delivered 2 million extra NHS appointments in England in the first year seven months early, but we want to go further with adopting technologies like ambient AI to automate doctors’ notes, ensuring maximum productivity and better outcomes for patients.
Session: Public Service Reform
View All Questions -->
In Sandwell, we have almost 20,000 people on the housing waiting list—we desperately need more affordable and social homes. We also have a town centre in West Brom that is busy during the day, but very quiet at night, with no night economy whatsoever. Both of those challenges could be addressed through development of residential properties in the town centre. We have a few places earmarked for development, but that has completely stalled, so can the Minister say what more he can do to help West Brom to get building and build the homes that people need?
Context
In West Bromwich, there is a significant housing waiting list with nearly 20,000 people. The town centre lacks an active nightlife despite being busy during the day.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Alex Norris)
My hon. Friend is exactly right—those two challenges can be taken on together. Creating opportunities for people to live in local communities brings footfall and reduces crime, which are both excellent things. She has heard what my hon. Friend the Minister for Housing and Planning has said about our support for house building. We stand ready to support her community to make sure they can build houses in their town centres.
Session: Town Centres Population Growth
View All Questions -->
The future of the car industry is important to West Brom, and that future lies in electric vehicles. One of the key issues on the demand side is that consumers do not have enough confidence in second-hand EVs, despite manufacturer warranties and increasingly good battery life. What steps are the Government taking to improve consumer confidence when buying second-hand EVs?
Context
The MP references the importance of the car industry in West Bromwich and the need for consumer confidence in second-hand EVs.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Lilian Greenwood)
My hon. Friend will be pleased to know that one in three used electric cars are now under £20,000, and data suggests that owners should expect an EV to last just as long as an internal combustion engine car. The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe has developed a new global technical regulation, which would set standards for the lifespan of an EV battery and its minimum durability. We are analysing options for the implementation of such regulations in the UK.
Session: Electric Vehicles
View All Questions -->
Coombes acknowledged the nightmare Palestinians have experienced over 14 months and emphasized the need for a safe Palestine alongside Israel without forced displacement of Gazans. She asked about how the UK is focusing on supporting a ceasefire and the rebuilding of Gaza.
Context
The context is the need for a safe Palestine alongside Israel, with an emphasis on no forced displacement. The question addresses the focus on supporting a ceasefire and rebuilding efforts in Gaza.
Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)
Dodds stated that the UK has been investing in the ceasefire, announcing additional humanitarian support for essential services. She highlighted a phased approach towards reconstruction and ultimately achieving a two-state solution.
Session: Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
View All Questions -->
We have seen a sickening rise in predators using AI technology to generate child sexual abuse images. I am glad that the Government recently announced measures to close the loopholes in this area, but will the Solicitor General assure us that the whole criminal justice system is using every new technology and AI, as well as tough sentences, to crack down on it and protect children and victims of this horrific abuse?
Context
There has been a rise in predators using AI to generate child sexual abuse images, highlighting the need for new technologies and measures to combat this issue.
The Solicitor General
My hon. Friend is right to raise this extremely important point. That is exactly why I welcome the Home Secretary’s announcement that this Government will be the first in the world to make it illegal to possess, create or distribute AI tools designed to generate child sexual abuse material, punishable by up to five years in prison.
Session: Criminal Justice System Use of Technology
View All Questions -->
Manufacturers in my constituency are really excited about the upcoming industrial strategy and all the growth that will bring. However, steel and aluminium businesses in particular are concerned about the upcoming carbon border adjustment mechanism, the gap with the EU, and whether the whole system will be ready for implementation. If we do not get it right, the CBAM will have a big impact on our ability to trade and on growth, so can the Minister assure me she is going to be working with the Treasury to ensure we get this right and that it supports manufacturers in the west midlands?
Context
The MP expresses concerns about the upcoming carbon border adjustment mechanism's impact on UK steel and aluminium manufacturers.
The Minister for Industry (Sarah Jones)
I know my hon. Friend will hold this Government to account on what we are doing and how we are going, and she will push, and already has done, to make sure we are doing everything we can for the industries in her area. The CBAM will be introduced in 2027, and she speaks to concerns that I have heard in conversations around steel in particular, which is very important to this country. That is why we are developing a steel strategy, which will set a future direction of travel for steel, but we are working with the EU and with industry here to make sure the CBAM works and does what it is supposed to do.
Session: Industrial Strategy
View All Questions -->
With a rise in disinformation and intimidation at home and interference from abroad, it has never been more important to stand up for our British democracy. Will the Minister therefore give us an update on the defending democracy taskforce?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the rise in disinformation and intimidation at home and interference from abroad, highlighting the importance of standing up for British democracy.
The Minister for Security (Dan Jarvis)
It is a top priority to protect our country and our elected representatives from interference, intimidation and harassment. The defending democracy taskforce brings together a cross-Government response to these threats and we will use all the tools at our disposal to protect our democratic security and resilience.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What steps are the Government taking to make our roads safer?
Context
In Sarah Coombes' constituency, a campaign by local children highlighted a dangerous stretch of road where cars speed and there is no pedestrian crossing. Tragically, a child lost their grandmother to a car crash on that very stretch of road.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Lilian Greenwood)
Every single death on our roads is tragic, which is precisely why we will bring forward further measures with the new road safety strategy—the first in more than a decade—which will consider how to prevent such appalling tragedies, including in her constituency.
Session: Road Safety Vulnerable Road Users
View All Questions -->
What is the Solicitor General doing to work with other Ministers to crack down on these zombie-style knives and ensure our town centres are safe?
Context
In West Bromwich, young people wearing balaclavas and wielding machetes ran around the town centre in broad daylight. People were put off going into the town centre.
Lucy Rigby
I am very sorry to hear about that shocking incident in my hon. Friend's constituency, and she is right to raise it in this House. These kinds of weapons have absolutely no place on our streets. That is why this Government took quick action to ensure it was illegal to possess machetes.
Session: Knife Offences
View All Questions -->
What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on prosecuting knife offences?
Context
The question arises from recent incidents of people carrying machetes in Hemel Hempstead, and a high rate of antisocial behaviour there. The MP also references 20,000 police officers being removed under previous Conservative Governments.
Lucy Rigby
Every single victim of knife crime is one too many, and this Christmas there will be some constituents, including my own, facing the heartbreaking reality of a loved one who is no longer with them due to knife crime. That is why, as part of our plan for change, the Government are 100% committed to tackling knife crime.
Session: Knife Offences
View All Questions -->
Will the Secretary of State show contrition for low business confidence, admit errors, and start standing up for business rather than Treasury?
Context
The Bank of England's survey indicates that many employers expect lower profit margins, higher prices, reduced employment, and lower wages due to the Budget.
Jonathan Reynolds
The Government are addressing issues, unlike the previous government which mishandled Brexit and increased corporation tax. We engage with reality and get on with the job.
Session: Business Confidence
View All Questions -->
Will the Minister set out further how the Government are working with councils to catch and punish these dreadful fly-tippers? The Member for West Bromwich highlighted the problem in Sandwell, where incidents of fly-tipping are double the national average, despite efforts by local initiatives.
Context
The MP noted that incidents of fly-tipping are now double the national average, despite efforts by local initiatives like Sandwell Litter Watch.
Mary Creagh
We will establish clean-up squads and force offenders to join in. The National Fly-Tipping Prevention Group has produced a guide for robust prosecutions, supporting tougher sentences. Further options are being explored with the Ministry of Justice.
Session: Fly-tipping
View All Questions -->
Last year, over 3,000 women in Sandwell were victims of domestic abuse. Getting cases through the justice system quicker is vital to breaking the cycle of abuse and protecting victims. Can the Minister set out further what the Government are doing to make sure the police and prosecutors work together to tackle domestic abuse?
Context
The question highlights a significant number of domestic abuse victims in Sandwell and the need for faster justice delivery to break cycles of abuse.
Sarah Sackman
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that very important point, and for the work she is doing in this area. For too long, victims of domestic abuse across the country have been let down, but this week, we have welcomed a new domestic abuse joint justice plan between police and prosecutors. That plan will see them working more closely together to support victims, in order to deliver swifter investigation and justice for all.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls
View All Questions -->
Our canals are important for communities, wildlife, and tourism but pollution is a serious problem. What actions are being taken to protect canals and clean up past failures?
Context
Pollution incidents have occurred in the Black Country's canals. The Government needs to address this issue.
Steve Reed
The Water (Special Measures) Bill allows regulators to claw back prosecution costs from organisations that pollute, ensuring better enforcement against those who failed under the previous Government.
Session: Water Pollution Accountability
View All Questions -->
What recent progress has been made on increasing the accountability of water companies for pollution discharges into waterways?
Context
The public is angry over sewage being released into rivers, lakes and seas. Recent Government action is required to address this.
Steve Reed
After 14 years of Conservative failure, this Government introduced the Water (Special Measures) Bill. The Bill bans bonuses for chief executives when environmental standards are not met and brings forward criminal charges for obstruction.
Session: Water Pollution Accountability
View All Questions -->
For victims, giving evidence in a court can sometimes be a very difficult and distressing experience, which is why they sometimes prefer to give evidence via video link. Can the Minister set out what steps the Government are taking to ensure that more victims can give evidence via video link across our country?
Context
Question follows up on initial concern about victim support, specifically focusing on the availability and use of video links.
Alex Davies-Jones
I thank my hon. Friend for that important question. Video links are available in all courts to help vulnerable and intimidated witnesses give evidence. We have recently invested £50,000 to transform witness facilities and upgrade video link rooms in 10 Crown courts. Pre-recorded evidence is also available in all Crown courts for eligible victims to spare them the trauma of giving evidence at a live trial.
Session: Courts Victims’ Experience
View All Questions -->
What steps her Department is taking to improve the experience of victims at court?
Context
None specified, but the question addresses general concerns about victim support and justice.
Alex Davies-Jones
This Government are committed to improving the victim experience at court. We will work with the judiciary to fast-track rape cases to ensure timely justice for some of the most vulnerable within the criminal justice system. Additionally, this Government committed in our manifesto to introducing free, independent legal support for victims of rape from report to trial. We have also committed to strengthening the victims code and to increasing the Victims' Commissioner's powers to make sure that victims' needs are met.
Session: Courts Victims’ Experience
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Connected and Automated Vehicles
28 October 2025
Responding: Simon Lightwood
Main Concerns
['In the UK, 30,000 people are killed or seriously injured on our roads each year due to issues like speeding, drink driving, mobile phone use, antisocial driving, and not wearing a seatbelt. Automated vehicles could avoid these issues as they would follow strict rules of the road and be trained by safe drivers.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should expand safety expectations for automated and connected vehicles and set out remaining regulations to improve public acceptance of this technology.']
Knife Crime: West Midlands
21 January 2025
Responding: Dame Diana Johnson
Main Concerns
['In the West Midlands, there is a high rate of knife crime per capita. The issue has led to personal tragedies and long-term impacts on families, including self-harming by children. There are concerns about distrust towards police, lack of opportunities for youth, and easy online access to knives.']
Specific Asks
['The MP asks for more visible policing as a deterrent, reduction in access to knives through bans and stronger enforcement against online retailers, early intervention education programs, and support for young people at teachable moments such as when they are in custody or hospital.']
State of Climate and Nature
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Civil Service Pensions
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Media Green Paper
24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Steel Tariffs
17 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...
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
23 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The DVLA is not fit for purpose in how it delivers its responsibilities, particularly regarding medical driving licences. Last year alone, the agency issued over 12 million driving licences and handle...
Backbench Business
16 April 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Modernisation Committee, under my leadership as Chair, has conducted an inquiry into accessibility issues within the Houses of Parliament, including physical and procedural barriers. We have recei...
British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme
16 April 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Opposition Day
24 March 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Spring Forecast
03 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
67.3%
66 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
24
24.5% of votes
No Votes
42
42.9% of votes
Abstentions
32
32.7% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
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 AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
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
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
1
PMQs Asked
43
Ministerial Questions Asked
44
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-73% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+221% above average
This MP:
43
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+805% above average
This MP:
44
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-3% below average
This MP:
67.3
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 Sarah Coombes's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.