Sarah Owen
MP for Luton North
Lab
12 Dec 2019 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Does the Deputy Prime Minister agree that Reform has a problem with women given they have embraced a politician endorsing sexist remarks?
Context
A Makerfield candidate for Reform made disgraceful comments about abortions, mums with prams in their pyjamas, and failed to apologize to Carol Vorderman.
David Lammy
The Prime Minister is putting tackling violence against women and girls at the heart of this Labour Government. By contrast, I am utterly appalled by what we have heard from the Reform candidate in Makerfield.
Session: PMQs
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While the economy is showing signs of improving, many pensioners are still impacted by the cost of living crisis. People in Luton who have worked hard all their lives are seeing their precious savings slip away. Will the Prime Minister tell us what measures he will take to help struggling pensioners in towns like mine?
Context
Many pensioners in Luton are still impacted by the cost of living crisis despite economic improvements.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
We all know that the economy was left in an absolute mess by the Tories. We had to stabilise the economy with tough decisions, but they were the right decisions. Because of them, the economy is beginning to improve: there were those growth figures last year—we had the highest growth in the G7; there were four interest rate cuts in a row; and there have been three trade deals. However, I recognise that people are still feeling the pressure of the cost of living crisis, including pensioners, and as the economy improves, we want to make sure that people feel those improvements each day as their lives go forward. That is why we want to ensure that more pensioners are eligible for winter fuel payments as we go forward. As you would expect, Mr Speaker, we will make only the decisions that we can afford, and that is why we will look at that as part of a fiscal event.
Assessment
While acknowledging the issue, the Prime Minister did not provide specific measures beyond considering winter fuel payments in the future.
Emphasizing Economic Improvements
Promising To Look At Eligibility Criteria
Session: PMQs
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In the past few days, Luton has suffered two stabbings. In addition, one woman has been murdered and another seriously injured, and a manhunt for the suspect is currently under way. This January alone, there have been at least 12 recorded violent offences in Luton. After decades of being funded as a rural police force, Bedfordshire Police has had to make do with special grants to tackle serious and violent crime. Does the Prime Minister agree that proper police funding is essential to keeping people in Luton North safe, and will he ensure that Bedfordshire Police receives the grants that we need to fight crime on our streets?
Context
In the past few days, Luton has suffered two stabbings. In addition, one woman has been murdered and another seriously injured, with a manhunt for the suspect currently under way. This January alone, there have been at least 12 recorded violent offences in Luton. Bedfordshire Police has had to make do with special grants to tackle serious and violent crime.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this case. She and I have met far too many families who have been devastated by this senseless violence. We are taking urgent action to ban zombie-style knives, and we are regulating the online sale of knives. It is unacceptable that these murder weapons can be bought with two clicks. Technology is there to stop it and we are going to take action. As for resources, we are putting an additional 13,000 police into neighbourhood roles and allocating £85 million to Bedfordshire Police to keep my hon. Friend’s constituents safe.
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that in light of the sudden departure of the CEO, Stellantis should review its decision to threaten more than 1,000 jobs in Luton? Will he ensure dedicated support for workers and families at this uncertain time?
Context
Stellantis has threatened job cuts at the Vauxhall plant in Luton, where workers have consistently met and exceeded targets. The CEO of Stellantis recently resigned.
Keir Starmer
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this issue, which is of grave concern to her constituents. The Government are totally committed to supporting the workers and their families at this uncertain time.
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister talks about things going backwards. The UK is the only western G7 power in recession, with seven consecutive quarters of no growth. Can the Prime Minister tell the businesses going bust, the families struggling to pay their bills, and the people being made homeless why this recession, which has his name written all over it, is a good thing for our country?
Context
The UK is in its seventh consecutive quarter of no growth, the longest since records began in 1955. This contrasts with other G7 countries.
Rishi Sunak
The hon. Lady might want to check some of the facts that she just outlined to the House; they are not quite right. Perhaps she would like to explain to the country why her party is stuck with a completely incoherent energy policy that will saddle working families with £28 billion of higher tax rises and higher energy bills.
Assessment
The economic situation was not addressed directly; instead, criticism was directed at Labour's energy policy.
Changing The Subject To Criticize Opposition
Session: PMQs
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What is this Prime Minister getting the boot for—her plan that crashed the economy or forcing fracking on communities that do not want it? Will she do the decent thing and go, and call a general election?
Context
Sarah Owen references the previous Prime Minister being forced out due to controversial policies and economic instability, questioning what current issues will lead to Elizabeth Truss stepping down.
Elizabeth Truss
I have taken responsibility and I have made the right decision in the interest of the country's economic stability.
Assessment
Call for a general election and reason for stepping down
Took Responsibility
Session: PMQs
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Does the Minister agree that all dads need quality time to support the other parent and bond with newborns, and that armed forces families are owed that vital time together?
Context
The question arises from a recommendation by the Women and Equalities Committee for increasing parental leave to at least six weeks.
Louise Jones
I would welcome a meeting with her to discuss the issue further, but I did not explicitly agree or disagree with the recommendation for six weeks of parental leave.
Session: Armed Forces Paternity Leave
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What recent estimate has been made of the number of men in the armed forces taking paternity leave in the latest period for which data is available?
Context
The question follows recent discussions on bereavement leave for new parents in the armed forces.
Louise Jones
The armed forces occupational paternity leave scheme provides equivalent arrangements to statutory provision, including full pay. In 2025, 1,684 service personnel took paternity leave.
Session: Armed Forces Paternity Leave
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Following the Women and Equalities Committee's work on misogyny in music, we are now looking at women's experiences in comedy. In 2018, Chortle found that a quarter of female comedians had been sexually assaulted by a fellow comic and that one in 13 had been raped by another performer. Given recent high-profile cases against male comedians, does the Minister think that this sorry situation has improved? What are the Government doing to ensure that all self-employed women are protected in the future?
Context
The MP noted recent work by the Women and Equalities Committee on misogyny in music and highlighted a Chortle survey that found significant instances of sexual assault against female comedians. She questioned if this situation has improved recently.
Alex Davies-Jones
I thank the Chair of the Women and Equalities Committee for raising this issue. It is a horrific statistic that she cites, but sadly it is not uncommon across all professions, including comedy and music. Our violence against women and girls strategy is holistic, so that we can take a whole-society approach to tackling the issue that she raises, which includes changing the culture going forward. I have been pleased to work with a brilliant organisation called No Stage for Abusers, which looks specifically at this issue. I would be happy to work with my hon. Friend and the Women and Equalities Committee to see what more we can do to support self-employed women and to tackle the harassment that they face in the workplace.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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It has been almost a year since the Supreme Court ruling, and I come here time after time to ask what progress has been made. I was going to ask today if the Government can confirm that every Department is fully compliant with the ruling, but honestly there is almost no point; we know that the answer is no. In the week of International Women's Day, is it not the truth that the former chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission had a point when she said that the Labour party seems to have “completely abandoned” women's rights?
Context
The Supreme Court ruling has been in place for almost a year, and there is skepticism about the Government's compliance with it.
Seema Malhotra
I do not think it will surprise the shadow Minister that I disagree with her. It is important to say we have been clear that all service providers must follow the law, as clarified by the For Women Scotland ruling. As she knows, the EHRC has given the Government the code of practice, which we are working through. It is also important to say that any suggestions of delay are completely wrong. She knows that it is a lengthy document, covering all the protected characteristics. We take this matter seriously, and we are working to get it right.
Session: International Women’s Day
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I thank the Minister for her measures. In Edinburgh West, this is a major issue affecting graduates who cannot secure jobs due to lengthy wait times and repeated test attempts. Will the Department consider how it can support people facing economic impacts from long waiting lists?
Context
The MP noted significant problems in Edinburgh West with young people, including graduates, unable to access driving tests leading to delayed job opportunities and repeated test attempts.
Lilian Greenwood
We appreciate the impact of delayed access to practical driving tests on young people. We are taking further measures and seeing signs of improvement, with 1,158,458 car practical driving tests conducted between June and December 2025, an increase over the same period in 2024.
Session: Driving Test Waiting Times
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Nearly half of disabled people in the UK say that they feel it is harder to get or keep a job. It is even worse for those with learning disabilities—just 6% find their way into the workplace. The problem is not just employer discrimination; it is the UK’s infrastructure. Three in four train stations are not step-free. Stations such as mine in Leagrave are completely out of bounds for people who are physically disabled. What is the Minister doing to ensure that cross-departmental working meets the need of disabled people to access public spaces and the workforce?
Context
More than half of disabled people in the UK find it difficult to get or keep a job, and only 6% of those with learning disabilities are employed. Infrastructure challenges, such as inaccessible train stations, exacerbate employment barriers.
The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right: the disability employment gap is too big. Every Department has a lead Minister on disability and I chair regular meetings. The Minister for Roads and Buses champions disabled people at the Department for Transport, and the rail accessibility road map sets out planned improvements for disabled people ahead of the establishment of Great British Railways.
Session: Access to Work People with Disabilities
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Court backlogs cause painful waits for survivors of rape and sexual assault. The system fell apart under the previous Government, meaning that only around 3% of rape reports result in a charge. What is the Minister doing to reduce the waiting times for cases of rape and sexual assault?
Context
Court delays mean that only around 3% of rape reports result in a charge. Survivors face painful waits for their cases to be resolved.
Alex Davies-Jones
Rape charges have doubled since 2019. We have asked Sir Brian Leveson to propose bold reforms to deliver swifter justice for all victims, and we are funding a record allocation of sitting days in the Crown court. This Government are spending £350 million on supporting victims of crime this year.
Session: Topical Questions
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When the British Sign Language GCSE will be available in schools. Beyond qualifications, what work is being done to ensure that deaf children and their whole families can access BSL teaching without cost, especially in the early years, when their deaf babies’ brains are developing language skills?
Context
The British Sign Language (BSL) GCSE is a new qualification aimed at increasing accessibility and recognition of BSL. The Minister for School Standards has been asked about its availability in schools.
The Minister for School Standards (Georgia Gould)
This is a really important qualification that is a step forward in opening up British Sign Language. However, the GCSE is a new qualification, and a lot of work is going into ensuring that the new assessment works for a wide range of students. Ofqual has consulted on its proposed assessment arrangements and expects to publish its final qualification rules this autumn. Funding is available through the adult skills fund for qualifications focusing on British Sign Language up to and including level 2.
Session: British Sign Language GCSE
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Does the Minister agree with me that mothers and babies deserve better? What cross-departmental work is taking place to ensure that NHS trusts across the country improve maternity care?
Context
Luton and Dunstable hospital’s maternity unit has been downgraded to ‘inadequate’ by the Care Quality Commission.
The Minister for Care (Stephen Kinnock)
My hon. Friend is campaigning strongly for her constituents on this issue. We are establishing the maternity and neonatal national taskforce, which will develop a national plan to drive improvements across maternity and neonatal care. It will be chaired by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and made up of a panel of experts, and family, charity and staff representatives.
Session: Maternity Care
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In famine conditions, new mothers often eat last and eat the least. This time next year, around 55,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women in Gaza could be at risk of death by starvation that is man-made. Following Belgium’s announcement today of new sanctions and a review of contracts with Israeli companies, can the Minister say what consequences Israel will face if it continues to starve the population of Gaza?
Context
In famine conditions, new mothers often eat last and eat the least. This time next year, around 55,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women in Gaza could be at risk of death by starvation that is man-made.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr Hamish Falconer)
My hon. Friend has a long track record of raising such issues, and she is absolutely right to highlight the fate of pregnant women and those who have recently given birth in Gaza. I am pleased to tell the House that we are still able to get some supplies relevant to those challenges into Gaza, but clearly in a famine of this nature, pregnant women and recently born children suffer the worst.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Aid
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My constituents are campaigning for a dedicated cancer support centre in Luton. Does the Minister agree this would benefit them, and will she meet me to discuss?
Ashley Dalton
The national cancer plan will cover facilities across England; I am more than happy to meet the hon. Friend to discuss Luton's needs.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given that reproductive health issues cost the UK economy £11 billion a year and wait times need improvement, does the Minister agree that investing in women’s health is essential? How is she raising the importance of the women’s health strategy with her colleagues?
Context
Women are waiting up to 10 years for a diagnosis of endometriosis or adenomyosis, costing the UK economy £11 billion annually.
The Minister for Equalities (Seema Malhotra)
We agree that investing in women’s health is essential. We are turning commitments into tangible actions, such as through the new cervical cancer plan aiming to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040 and our elective reform plan supporting nearly 600,000 women on gynaecology waiting lists.
Session: Endometriosis
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Does the Minister agree that improving women’s health will break down a huge barrier to work?
Context
Women missing work due to endometriosis, ovarian cysts and other complications cost the economy £11 billion a year. Fixing this would save more than double the amount that is to be spent on proposed welfare cuts for disabled people.
The Minister for Women and Equalities (Bridget Phillipson)
I agree with my hon. Friend the Chair of the Select Committee, and I pay tribute to her for all her campaigning work in the important area of women’s health. The Government recognise the terrible impact that these conditions can have on women’s ability to work and live their lives as they should. We are committed to implementing a women’s health strategy as part of the 10-year plan.
Session: Government Mission on Opportunity Equality
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The number of people needing a social home in Luton has gone up from 8,500 last year to 11,500 this year, so I welcome the Government’s plan for 1.5 million new homes. While we are crying out for houses in Luton, just over the border with Central Bedfordshire developments are taking place right on our border, but without people in Luton getting a look in. What can the Minister do to ensure that local authorities co-operate with each other to deliver the homes that we need?
Context
In Luton, the number of people needing social housing has increased from 8,500 to 11,500. Development is happening just across the border in Central Bedfordshire without involving Luton residents.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
We are taking measures to address precisely the problem that my hon. Friend outlines. Proposals in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill will make spatial development strategies mandatory at sub-regional level, so neighbouring local authorities have to co-operate effectively on housing delivery and infrastructure provision across boundaries in just the way she sets out, which will address the challenges she outlines.
Session: Local Development Public Consultation
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Like many, I have seen adverts for artificial intelligence apps targeted at teenagers boasting about their ability to create AI videos of non-consensual intimate acts between real people without their knowledge. These tools disproportionately hurt women and young people. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to protect women, girls, and young boys from this deeply malicious use of artificial intelligence, and will he take action against AI companies that promote these features?
Context
Sarah Owen referenced harmful AI applications targeting teenagers, which create non-consensual deepfakes. She cited these tools' disproportionate impact on women and young people.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Peter Kyle)
I am extremely grateful to my hon. Friend for her question because she raises an incredibly important point. It is one that was tackled in our manifesto—our promise of change for the country—and it is one that we are now delivering in government. We will bring forward amendments to the Data (Use and Access) Bill, and we are working closely with Baroness Owen in the House of Lords to make sure that they are effective. The creation of non-consensual deepfakes will become illegal, and they will be tackled into the future.
Session: Technology-enabled VAWG
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The Minister and many colleagues in this place will be aware of the groundbreaking new Netflix programme “Adolescence”. It is chilling, but is rightfully forcing a national conversation about the dangerous content seen by young men and boys, with fatal consequences. Given the important role that schools play in preventing violence against women and girls, will the Minister provide an update on what is being done with the Department for Education to counter misogyny and extreme violence, in order to enable a safe future for young boys and girls?
Context
The Netflix programme “Adolescence” highlights the dangerous content seen by young men and boys, which can lead to fatal consequences.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right that including men and boys in the conversation about how we prevent future violence against women and girls will be absolutely fundamental. A huge portion of the new violence against women and girls strategy is focused on prevention, and what we can do in our schools, our workplaces and elsewhere to reach men and boys, in order to change the future.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Luton Airport invested £110 million in local businesses last year, showing the value of supporting SMEs. What can we do to ensure that small businesses in Luton get a fair chance when it comes to public sector procurement?
Context
The question is prompted by the significant local impact of Luton Airport investing £110 million in local businesses and the MP’s efforts to promote small businesses.
Georgia Gould (Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office)
We are setting stretching and transparent targets for each Department to maximise spend with SMEs. This includes asking Departments to advertise Government contracts locally so that businesses like those in Luton have a fair chance to participate.
Session: Public Procurement Support for SMEs
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Antisocial fireworks keep our constituents awake, cause alarm for pets, and seriously affect people with post-traumatic stress disorder or special educational needs. I know the Minister heard extensively from colleagues, campaigners and charities on this during the Westminster Hall debate on my Bill. Will he meet me to discuss the implementation of the common-sense measures presented in my Fireworks Bill, including lowering the noise limit on fireworks sold to the public, closing the licensing loophole and reviewing social media and online sales?
Context
Sarah Owen raised concerns about antisocial fireworks causing distress to pets and vulnerable individuals, referencing a Westminster Hall debate on her Fireworks Bill.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Justin Madders)
It is always a pleasure to meet my hon. Friend and I am happy to do so. Indeed, we will see whether we can get her to come along to some of the other meetings that we are holding with interested groups, some of which she has mentioned.
Session: Fireworks
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I declare an interest, because my husband works at Luton sixth-form college, although this question does not affect him. I am proud to have Luton sixth-form college and Barnfield college in my constituency—places where young people develop not only their education but their ambitions. Excellent sixth forms stay that way only by attracting and retaining the best staff. However, with the funding shortfall left by the last Tory Government, I am concerned that it is our younger generations who will feel the loss. Will the Minister outline how sixth-form colleges can use their funds to deliver the deserved 5.5% pay rise for teaching staff?
Context
The MP expressed concern over the funding shortfall left by the previous Conservative government affecting teaching staff and students in sixth-form colleges.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Janet Daby)
I recognise the vital role that sixth-form colleges play, including Luton sixth-form college, and I agree that high-quality staff are what helps to make them great, as well as our amazing students. That is why we announced an additional £300 million for further education in the Budget, and it is why we are releasing £50 million of that funding in this academic year, so that colleges can respond to priorities, including workforce recruitment and retention, and use those funds as they see fit.
Session: Sixth-form Colleges Pay Award
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Can the Secretary of State outline what steps she is taking to shorten waiting times and increase social housing stock for people in Luton North?
Context
More than 600 households across Luton are living in temporary accommodation, with families scattered across hotels and bed and breakfasts waiting for homes to become available.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (Rushanara Ali)
The Secretary of State is leading the charge in building 1.5 million homes to tackle the supply challenge that we face as a country, because of the housing crisis we inherited. We also announced £500 million for the affordable homes programme in the Budget and funding for homelessness services has gone up by £233 million, bringing the total to a billion pounds.
Session: Topical Questions
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I thank the Minister for his response. Leagrave station in Luton was one of a number granted Access for All funding by the previous Government for long-overdue lifts. However, Network Rail now says that this money was never allocated and that it only qualifies for a business case, despite a feasibility study already being agreed and completed. Those who can make the nearly 2 million journeys from Leagrave station, including myself, are left with a crumbling footbridge that is not accessible for many. Will the Minister offer assurances that Access for All funding to Leagrave station will be honoured, and will he meet me and the Bedfordshire Rail Access Network to establish the quickest path to having lifts at Leagrave station?
Context
Leagrave station in Luton was granted Access for All funding by the previous Government but Network Rail says this money was never allocated and that Leagrave only qualifies for a business case, despite feasibility studies being completed. This affects nearly 2 million journeys from Leagrave.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Simon Lightwood)
My hon. Friend is a formidable advocate for this, having raised it numerous times. The Rail Minister is carefully considering the decisions made by the previous Government in relation to the Access for All programme. My hon. Friend will be aware that Leagrave was one of 50 stations across Britain selected by the previous Government for further consideration of whether they could be made step-free between the entrance and all platforms. We will shortly update the House on our approach to Access for All, but let me assure her that we are committed to improving the accessibility of the rail network, recognising the social and economic benefits that that brings.
Session: Public Transport Accessibility
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Does the Minister agree that more empathy needs to be built into the system?
Context
Women of Bangladeshi origin in Leicester South face significant challenges finding work due to language and bureaucratic issues, affecting their mental health.
Seema Malhotra
The hon. Gentleman has raised an important point, and I will ensure that he has a meeting with the relevant Minister to discuss it.
Session: Discrimination Against Ethnic Minorities
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I am sure that many of us will welcome commitments from the Government to remove barriers to work for disabled people, but disability charities have outlined concerns about the Government's plans for work capability assessment reform and changes to personal independence payments and the Access to Work scheme. Will the Minister please commit to working with disability charities to ensure that any changes to those schemes, including any proposed by the previous Government, are made alongside consultation with the people those policies will affect?
Context
Disability charities are concerned about the Government's plans for work capability assessment reform and changes to personal independence payments and the Access to Work scheme.
Stephen Timms
I can give my hon. Friend that assurance. As I have said, we are committed to putting the views and voices of disabled people at the heart of everything we do and, in looking at these issues, to consulting properly and amply with disabled people and with their organisations.
Session: Disabled People Discrimination
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What steps she is taking to help end discrimination against disabled people?
Context
The MP seeks to address ongoing discrimination faced by disabled individuals and the need for specific steps to improve their rights and opportunities.
Stephen Timms
Our manifesto committed us to championing the rights of, and working with, disabled people, putting their views and voices at the heart of all we do. We want a more inclusive society, removing the unnecessary barriers that have too often held disabled people back.
Session: Disabled People Discrimination
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Ahead of any Budget, there is always talk about tough decisions. Could the Minister remind us why we are in this difficult position in the first place, and will he please update us on progress on clawing back covid fraud, where we saw taxpayers' money being handed over to former Ministers' mates?
Context
The question discusses tough budget decisions coming up and seeks information on progress in recovering money from fraudulent claims during the pandemic.
Pat McFadden
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. We knew we would inherit a difficult position, but it was much more difficult than we thought when we came into office. Anybody who objects to difficult decisions announced in the Budget next week should know where the responsibility for those lie: squarely on the shoulders of the Conservative party. It falls to us to clean up the mess we have inherited from the Conservatives. That you will hear more about when the Chancellor gets to her feet next week.
Session: Topical Questions
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How will the Minister work with the Department of Health and Social Care to ensure people get the compensation they deserve?
Context
Sharon Moore is a campaigner for victims of the infected blood scandal. Previous governments neglected to engage with patients and organisations regarding the Langstaff inquiry recommendations.
Nick Thomas-Symonds
Interim payments for deceased victims are now open. The Infected Blood Compensation Authority expects to make first payments before year-end and aim to complete regulations by March next year, starting payments to affected individuals next year.
Session: Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
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Today marks the start of Baby Loss Awareness Week. Does the Minister agree that all workers could and should benefit from the right to bereavement leave following baby loss?
Context
The MP raises Baby Loss Awareness Week, advocating for paid bereavement leave following baby loss.
Anneliese Dodds
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising that question and congratulate her on becoming the Chair of the Women and Equalities Committee. I know she has campaigned for many months on this issue, and I am pleased to see progress among some major employers.
Session: Women in the Workplace
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Two years ago, P&O Ferries sacked 786 workers and replaced them with agency staff paid less than the minimum wage. After that fiasco, the Government promised to review all contracts with the company. Why is it that, since then, the Government have spent £900,000 directly with P&O Ferries? Why are the Conservatives so comfortable spending taxpayers' money on rewarding the appalling treatment of working people?
Context
P&O Ferries sacked workers and replaced them with agency staff paid less than the minimum wage two years ago.
Jeremy Hunt
Let me say to the hon. Lady, who I very much enjoyed working with on the Select Committee, that our record is 800 more people in work for every single day of Conservative government since 2010. What will wreck that is Labour's new deal for workers, which the president of the CBI says will destroy the job-creating machine that the UK has become.
Session: Topical Questions
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I welcome the record real-terms funding flowing into our schools, but will my right hon. Friend join me in looking very carefully at the case for extending funding for tutoring? It has raised attainment, in particular for the most disadvantaged, in many of our schools, and been seen as a great success story.
Context
The funding for tutoring has been a success in raising attainment, particularly among disadvantaged students.
Damian Hinds
I absolutely agree that tutoring is important in multiple contexts. In particular, in the years since the pandemic it has played an essential part. I will add that tutoring by undergraduates can help to introduce a wider range of people to the potential of a career in teaching. I want tutoring to continue.
Session: Maintained Schools Funding
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What assessment her Department has made of the impact of funding decisions on maintained schools since 2010. Recent figures show that the worst impacted schools in Luton North have endured more than £2 million of real-terms cuts since 2010. There are school roofs with holes in, buckets scattered across corridors collecting rainwater, and entire buildings held up by scaffolding.
Context
Recent figures show significant real-terms cuts in Luton North's schools since 2010, impacting school buildings and teaching resources.
Damian Hinds
In 2010-11, school funding was £35 billion. Next year, it will be £59.6 billion. That is the highest ever level in real terms per pupil. On the condition of school buildings, there is £1.8 billion-worth of capital for maintaining and improving school buildings.
Session: Maintained Schools Funding
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I am afraid the Minister's warm words about the social care workforce do not meet the reality check for most people. The Government's own statistics show that there are at least 152,000 vacancies in social care in England alone, leaving my constituents waiting up to 10 weeks to be discharged from hospital. The Government have been using international recruitment to plug the gaps and as a result have filled over 11,000 vacancies in the past few years, so can the Minister confirm whether recruitment and retention in social care will be better or worse due to Government plans to prevent overseas social care workers bringing family members to the UK?
Context
Government statistics showing at least 152,000 social care vacancies in England with significant wait times for discharges from hospital.
Helen Whately
As I said a moment ago, vacancies have fallen and the care workforce grew by more than 20,000 last year. We are seeing better retention of care workers as well, but we need to go further. That is why we are reforming social care careers, introducing the first ever national career structure for the care workforce and new qualifications and training.
Session: Adult Social Care Workforce
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Last week, Bedfordshire police reported that two drug dealers who had trafficked a vulnerable 15-year-old child from Luton to sell drugs were sentenced under modern slavery laws. Although that conviction is of course welcome, I think we can all agree that this is not just slavery; it is the despicable act of grooming children into a life of drugs, gangs and violence. Why do not the Government back our plans for a new specific offence to lock up such criminals for exactly what they are doing and stop them exploiting children and young people for a life of crime?
Context
The MP mentioned a recent conviction under modern slavery laws and asked why the Government does not support creating a new specific offence to address such crimes.
Laura Farris
I agree with much of what the hon. Lady says. The Prime Minister implemented new measures to deal with child sexual exploitation in April of last year, but part of that deals with organised exploitation, which goes wider. I am glad to hear that those two criminals were convicted under modern slavery laws. I want to reassure her that, under our Criminal Justice Bill, which is making its way through the House, grooming gangs will receive enhanced sentences.
Session: Violent Crime Young People
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What steps his Department is taking to identify young people most at risk of being drawn into violent crime.
Context
The MP inquired about measures being taken to protect young individuals from becoming involved in violent criminal activities.
Laura Farris
Since 2019, we have invested £160 million in 20 violence reduction units across England and Wales, and a further £55 million has been committed this year. Violence reduction units have reached more than 270,000 young people. They bring together specialists from health, the police, local government and community organisations not just to tackle violent crime, but to identify the young people who are most at risk of being drawn into it and provide evidence-based interventions to support them.
Session: Violent Crime Young People
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Can the Minister tell us more on what the Government are doing to support independent investigations and the International Criminal Court?
Context
UN experts have warned that Israeli military strategy could lead to ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.
Andrew Mitchell
The answer to the hon. Lady's perfectly proper question is that international and legal organisations all around the world will be looking at this and giving their opinions.
Session: Israel, Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories Humanitarian Access and Human Rights
View All Questions -->
I am concerned about the diplomatic steps being taken to help ensure that humanitarian organisations have access to Gaza. What specific measures are in place?
Context
UK is concerned about the accessibility of Gaza by humanitarian organisations.
Andrew Mitchell
I talk to Martin Griffiths, the head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, almost every day, and on Friday I attended a meeting with development Ministers convened by Samantha Power, the head of the United States Agency for International Development.
Session: Israel, Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories Humanitarian Access and Human Rights
View All Questions -->
Residents struggle to see a GP or get dental care, with council budgets halved since 2015. Why does the Government continue to prioritize developers over people living in towns?
Context
The MP criticized the government for prioritizing developers over residents, citing infrastructure issues and budget cuts in Mid Bedfordshire.
Jacob Young
I disagree with her but point to measures in the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill, which will come to the House tomorrow, aimed at improving high streets for local people.
Session: Towns Fund Project Delivery
View All Questions -->
How much unnecessary pain must Ministers see women endure before the Government finally deliver on the pain management promised in the women's health strategy? And why is this a 10-year ambition instead of a more immediate one?
Context
Women often endure unnecessary pain through standard but invasive procedures like hysteroscopies and intrauterine device fittings without adequate pain relief. The MP is pressing the government to expedite action on the pain management promised in the women's health strategy.
Maria Caulfield
I thank the hon. Lady for her question, and let me also pay tribute to the hon. Member for West Ham (Ms Brown), who has campaigned hard in this space. I met a group of women to discuss painful hysteroscopies just a few weeks ago. This is a priority in the women's health strategy, as the hon. Member for Luton North (Sarah Owen) said. We are working with the royal college to update its guidelines.
Session: Healthcare for Women
View All Questions -->
Brain tumours are the biggest killer for people under 40, but we are still waiting for the full £40 million that the Government promised to fund brain tumour research. Once again, I ask whether the Minister for Health and Secondary Care or the Secretary of State will meet with me and my constituents to hear their calls for the full funding allocation to be given to researchers.
Context
The MP raised the case of Yasmin and Khuram whose daughter Amani died from a brain tumour just before her 23rd birthday.
Steve Barclay
The Minister of State has met with campaigners, and I know he stands ready to have further such meetings. As we touched on earlier, the £40 million is available; obviously, that needs to be allocated to research bids of the necessary quality, and the remaining money is open to researchers to bid for.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to improve healthcare for women, given the first Government has produced a women's health strategy in England?
Context
The question follows the government's publication of a women's health strategy in England. The MP is seeking specific steps taken by the government to improve healthcare.
Maria Caulfield
This is the first Government to produce a women's health strategy in England. We are making huge progress on the eight priorities in our first year, from introducing the hormone replacement therapy pre-payment certificate, which is reducing the cost of HRT for women, to the £25 million roll-out of women's health hubs across the country.
Session: Healthcare for Women
View All Questions -->
If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. The NHS app is essential for delivering priorities like cutting waiting lists, improving GP access, and A&E performance. Enhancements of patient choice are set to cut waiting times by three months, according to the Patients Association. There have been 6 million new registrations for the app; repeat prescriptions via the app have increased from 1.6 million a month to 2.5 million a month; primary care appointments made on the app have increased from 30,000 a month to 250,000, and secondary care appointment from 30,000 a month to 360,000.
Context
The question follows an initial inquiry about the Health Secretary's departmental duties.
Steve Barclay
As Health Secretary, I have been clear that deploying the latest technology and innovation is essential in order to deliver our priorities: to cut waiting lists, improve access to GPs and improve A&E performance. The NHS app is at the heart of this, including the enhancement of patient choice set out in our recent announcement, which is not available to patients in Wales. We have been making major improvements behind the scenes, which are already paying off.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
International Human Rights Abuses: UK Response — [Dame Maria Miller in the Chair]
24 January 2024
Responding: David Rutley
Main Concerns
["Ms Owen is concerned about the lack of consistency in the UK's response to human rights abuses, citing specific instances in Gaza and Jammu and Kashmir. She notes that over 24,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since 2023, with half of them being children. Additionally, she mentions arbitrary arrests, illegal airstrikes against churches and refugee camps, and the potential for genocide as reported by UN human rights experts. In Jammu and Kashmir, there is an ongoing crackdown on rights, including internet access control, arbitrary detentions, and police killings without accountability."]
Specific Asks
["Ms Owen urges the government to correct its approach in Gaza, particularly regarding aid routes being blocked and requests to open crossings being denied. She also asks for dialogue with Indian authorities about abuses in Jammu and Kashmir and for a commitment to promote a truth and reconciliation commission initiative to Ministers' Indian counterparts."]
Tackling Knife Crime — [Ian Paisley in the Chair]
20 July 2021
Responding: Kit Malthouse
Main Concerns
["Sarah Owen is deeply concerned about the recent rise in knife-related crime in Bedfordshire, particularly following the tragic death of a young person named Humza Hussain. She notes that there were 397 offences involving a knife in Bedfordshire in 2010, which climbed to 530 by last year—an increase of over a third. Owen highlights that funding cuts and austerity measures have resulted in significant reductions in youth services and police resources, leading to increased exploitation of young people and mistrust towards authorities. She mentions Barnardo's figures indicating that over one-fifth of knife-related offences involve individuals under 18."]
Specific Asks
['Owen asks the Minister for extra funding for youth services that prevent crime rather than just tackling it after the fact. She also inquires about measures to address mental health issues among young people, especially following the pandemic. Owen further questions the commitment to a public health approach to knife crime prevention and seeks a re-evaluation of the police funding formula for Bedfordshire to better reflect urban needs.']
Kashmir
13 January 2021
Responding: Nigel Adams
Main Concerns
["Ms Sarah Owen is concerned about the lockdown and restrictions imposed on people in Kashmir, which she describes as a means of control rather than safety. She highlights that around 7 million people have been silenced and cut off from communication with the outside world since 2019 when autonomy was stripped away. Ms Owen also mentions numerous human rights abuses including reports of Muslims being denied access to hospitals during the pandemic, unexplained killings such as those of Athar Mushtaq, and women's fear of assault by soldiers."]
Specific Asks
['Ms Owen asks for a transparent investigation into recent deaths in Kashmir and urges the Minister to ensure that claims of sexual violence from Kashmiri women seeking asylum will be taken seriously. She also calls for international work on tackling online propaganda and fake news to protect freedom of speech.']
Chinese and East Asian Communities: Racism during Covid-19
13 October 2020
Responding: Kelly Tolhurst
Main Concerns
['Ms Sarah Owen is concerned about the rise in hate crimes against Chinese, East Asians, and South-East Asians since the onset of the pandemic. She cites statistics from the organisation End the Virus of Racism showing that there were 261 hate crimes against Asians in April, 323 in May, and 395 in June, with each month seeing an increase as lockdown measures eased. Ms Owen also highlights incidents such as a student being attacked on Oxford Street for allegedly spreading coronavirus and a takeaway owner being spat at by customers asking if he had the virus.']
Specific Asks
['Ms Owen asks the Government to condemn anti-Asian racism, support anti-racism organisations working with British East and South-East Asian communities, work with media outlets to stop overusing East Asian imagery in reporting on coronavirus, hold social media companies accountable for removing racist content, include these communities in decision-making processes, and take action beyond just verbal recognition of contributions.']
Backbench Business
16 July 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Accommodation
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Puberty Blockers
23 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
As a consultant paediatrician, Caroline Johnson highlights the ethical concerns surrounding the PATHWAYS clinical trial that involves administering puberty-suppressing hormones to children with gender...
East Midland Railway Collision
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Pride Month
04 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Olivia Bailey opens the debate by highlighting the progress made in LGBT+ rights and recognising Labour's role in repealing section 28, ending the ban on LGBT people serving in armed forces, introduci...
Equality Act 2010: Code of Practice
01 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson: Government Response to Humble Address Motion
12 February 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
12 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate focuses on the importance of LGBT+ History Month, acknowledging the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights and the ongoing struggles faced by the community. Nadia Whittome emphasises her gratitude ...
Leagrave Station: Step-free Access
09 February 2026
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North, expressed her disappointment and frustration over the cancellation of Access for All funding for Leagrave station. She highlighted that the previous announcement about ...
Backbench Business - Brain Tumour Survival RatesBackbench Business
09 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The House is urged to note the poor survival rates of brain tumours in the UK, which ranks 22nd out of 29 comparable countries. McDonagh highlights the lack of progress due to a system that prioritise...
Safety of pregnant women during the coronavirus outbreak
13 January 2021
The petition, initiated by Ernest Boateng following the death of his wife Mary Agyeiwaa Agyapong during pregnancy due to COVID-19, calls for better protection of pregnant women during the pandemic.
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
74.4%
61 of 82 votes
Aye Votes
23
28.0% of votes
No Votes
38
46.3% of votes
Abstentions
21
25.6% of votes
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
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
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
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 Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
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: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
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 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
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: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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
VOTED AYE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
04 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
03 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 458
Noes: 104
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Youth unemployment
Ayes: 91
Noes: 287
Failed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Medical Devices (Fees Amendment) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 294
Noes: 108
Passed
28 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: British Indian Ocean Territory
Ayes: 103
Noes: 284
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 9
Ayes: 91
Noes: 378
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 2
Ayes: 61
Noes: 311
Failed
27 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill: Amendment 1
Ayes: 88
Noes: 310
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 191
Noes: 326
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED NO
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill Commi...
Ayes: 195
Noes: 317
Failed
21 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
National Insurance Contributions (Employer Pensions Contributions) Bill: Thir...
Ayes: 316
Noes: 194
Passed
21 Jan 2026
DID NOT VOTE
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial...
Ayes: 373
Noes: 106
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 185
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Sentencing Bill: motion to disagree with Lords Amendment 7
Ayes: 319
Noes: 127
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 344
Noes: 182
Passed
20 Jan 2026
VOTED AYE
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill: motion to...
Ayes: 347
Noes: 184
Passed
6
PMQs Asked
62
Ministerial Questions Asked
143
House of Commons Debates Involved
4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
1
Petitions Presented
82
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
+63% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+354% above average
This MP:
62
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+58% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2854% above average
This MP:
143
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-59% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.4
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+7% above average
This MP:
74.4
Average:
69.5
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 Owen's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.