Simon Hoare
MP for North Dorset
Con
7 May 2015 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Pharmacy provider Jhoots is effectively bankrupt, impacting both patients' prescription access and staff's payment status. Could the Prime Minister convene relevant Departments to address these issues?
Context
Jhoots, a pharmacy provider, faces potential bankruptcy and has failed to pay its staff since July. This affects patient access to prescriptions and involves multiple government departments.
The Prime Minister
I thank the hon. Member for raising this serious issue, as he has done on a number of occasions. It affects both his constituents and others across the country. It is simply unacceptable that customers and staff have been so badly let down. I know he will be meeting the relevant Minister, but let me update him now in a couple of respects. Officials are currently reviewing whether the integrated care boards and General Pharmaceutical Council need additional powers to address pharmacy businesses that do not play by the rules—I think that is exactly the point he raises.
Session: PMQs
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I am concerned about the funding issues affecting rural areas and their ability to deliver services effectively. The government's programme has not recognised the impact on organisations in North Dorset, leading to tragic events like the recent death of a constituent in a fire attended by 50 firefighters. Will he arrange for the relevant Minister at the Home Office to meet me and senior officials in that fire service to discuss the needs of our rural area?
Context
A constituent of the MP died in a tragic fire at Lady Bailey residential park in Winterborne Whitechurch. There were over 900 grassland, woodland and crop fires this summer alone, equaling the busiest year on record for Dorset and Wiltshire fire service.
The Prime Minister
I am very sorry to hear about the case that the hon. Gentleman raises, and I am sure that the thoughts of the whole House will be with the friends and family of the constituent that he referenced. We have provided Dorset and Wiltshire fire and rescue authority with an increased budget of almost £75 million, but I will ensure that he gets the meeting he has asked for to ensure that we can properly support our firefighters and protect our farmland.
Session: PMQs
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While discussing his meeting in Washington, will he undertake to raise with President Trump the fact that Canada is a valued, respected and much-loved member of both NATO and our Commonwealth? This childish nonsense of a 51st state should be called out by the Prime Minister for what it is.
Context
The question follows concerns about the Prime Minister's visit to Washington and discussions with former US President Donald Trump.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I thank the hon. Member for raising this issue. The UK and Canada are close allies and have been for a long time, with a partnership based on a shared history and a shared set of values and a determination to be an active force for good in the world.
Session: PMQs
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As evidenced by some earlier questions, issues surrounding SEND, local government finance and adult social care affect all of our constituents. Let us be honest: for too long, both parties have ducked and dodged taking the difficult but necessary decisions. In order to give certainty to our constituents and confidence to those who provide those vital services, does the Prime Minister share my assessment that there is considerable merit in formal cross-party working on those issues, so that we can share taking those difficult decisions in order to improve outcomes for our constituents?
Context
Issues surrounding SEND, local government finance, and adult social care affect all constituents. Previous governments have avoided taking necessary decisions.
Keir Starmer
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for raising the question of SEND, because it is a really important issue—I think this is the fourth time in two Prime Minister's Question Times that it has been raised, by Members on both sides of the House. I quibble with his suggestion that it is both parties, since his party was in power for 14 years, but the spirit in which he proposes that this work should be cross-party is something that we should take up, because SEND is such an important issue. It affects so many children and parents, so notwithstanding that quibble, I am very happy to work across the House on an issue as important as SEND.
Session: PMQs
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We need the same quality of services in rural areas as towns and cities. What measures are being taken to ensure this?
Context
The questioner raises concerns about providing high-quality services in rural areas.
Rishi Sunak
The hon. Friend raises an important issue on behalf of his constituents. £95 million is provided through the rural services delivery grant to help rural councils achieve high-quality services. We are reviewing the police funding formula and have ensured that the national funding formula for schools takes account of different characteristics.
Session: PMQs
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We appear to be on a downward spiral in the middle east, which inevitably will lead to a humanitarian crisis. The role of Egypt will be fantastically important. What can we in the wider international community do to work with the Egyptians to ensure that refugees coming on to Egyptian soil are legitimate refugees who pose no threat to the Egyptian state and are not terrorists in disguise?
Context
Concerns over a potential humanitarian crisis due to the situation in the Middle East, with Egypt's role being crucial.
Rishi Sunak
My hon. Friend raises an excellent point regarding the Egyptians' concerns about that border, but we have prioritised speaking with President Sisi and are in continued dialogue with our Egyptian partners to see what we can do to provide reassurances and get humanitarian aid to the region. We are working with local partners, including the Egyptian Red Crescent, and the UN on the ground.
Assessment
Specific commitments or actions taken by UK in collaboration with Egypt were not explicitly detailed
Session: PMQs
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My right hon. Friend is also the Justice Secretary, and everybody in this House, irrespective of party, will know that for the reputation of this House standards are important. He has said that from the Dispatch Box this afternoon. However, in response to some of the points raised by Opposition Members, am I naive to still believe in that good British tradition that one is innocent until proven guilty?
Context
In the context of recent debates about standards and conduct within the House, the questioner seeks to affirm the principle of innocence until proven guilty.
Dominic Raab
My hon. Friend makes an important point. I have said I will co-operate fully with the independent investigation. In fact, I welcome the opportunity to address these complaints. I think, though, that it is important that we have zero tolerance for any bullying and hold the highest standards in public life, and it is important for all of us to adhere to those standards.
Assessment
The questioner's specific ask about the principle of innocence until proven guilty was not directly addressed.
Session: PMQs
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Parents, teachers and young people across North Dorset welcomed the Secretary of State's announcement last month. This is clearly a fast-moving area of communication. Will the Secretary of State assure the House that this will be an iterative and evolutionary process with Government deploying resources so we are well placed to meet new challenges and our young people are safe and protected?
Context
Parents, teachers and young people in North Dorset welcomed the Secretary of State's recent announcement on online safety. This area is rapidly evolving.
Liz Kendall
The hon. Gentleman makes an important point, which is that this is not a 'one and done', because technology changes fast. The Online Safety Act 2023 took eight years from initial idea to implementation, which is not good enough. Powers in the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 address features and functions, but I am sure there is more we can do.
Session: Online Safety Children 2026-07-01
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I welcome the Foreign Secretary's use of the term “settler terrorism”. She will be aware that settler terrorism is often enabled and encouraged, or a blind eye turned, by both the Israeli police and the IDF. Can she remind her Israeli Government counterparts of the importance of the rule of law?
Context
The MP noted incidents of settler violence being enabled and encouraged by Israeli authorities, leading to property damage and intimidation.
Yvette Cooper
We continually raise these issues with the Israeli Government, including sanctions on organisations supporting settler violence. There has to be accountability for what are, effectively, criminal acts.
Session: West Bank Settler Activity
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Violence against women and girls is often focused on what women and girls can do to keep themselves safe, but the Minister will know that the pernicious attitude of toxic masculinity has a huge impact on teenage boys, young women and girls. What can the Government do, preferably cross-party, to send a better message to young men and boys about how to deal with young women in school and elsewhere, in order to preserve safety and dignity?
Context
The MP highlighted the pernicious impact of toxic masculinity on teenage boys, young women and girls. He emphasized the need for cross-party work to send a positive message to young men.
Alex Davies-Jones
I welcome that really important question from the hon. Gentleman, and he is right to address this issue. A core part of our violence against women and girls strategy is tackling the online proliferation of harmful narratives that are being pushed on our young men and boys. Last week, the Deputy Prime Minister and I hosted a roundtable across Government, with the Secretary of State for Education present, to look at how best we can support our men and boys in a positive way to provide them with opportunities going forward, so that they are not being pushed the message that they are to blame and are toxic. I want to be very clear that “toxic masculinity” does not mean that all men are toxic—that is a really important point to make.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Will the Minister listen to Welsh sheep farmers who are concerned about accessing shearers and ensure they can come in for the shearing season?
Context
Welsh sheep farmers are concerned about accessing Australian and New Zealand sheep shearers due to animal welfare issues.
Anna McMorrin
The Minister regularly listens to farmers and speaks to farming unions. Important trade deals are being made to support farmers. The Government is repairing the reputation on the world stage after it was damaged by the Conservative party.
Session: Family Farms
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What they and I cannot understand is why it will take until the end of this Parliament, as the Minister told us just a little while ago, and not sooner, to sort out that big problem and turbocharge NHS dentistry in rural North Dorset?
Context
The MP questioned why it will take until the end of this Parliament to sort out the inadequacy of the dental contract, despite discussions for years.
Stephen Kinnock
We are engaging intensively with the BDA. The interim reforms will kick in from April, but we look to put long-term reforms in place from 2027 onwards.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 was never intended to be used by local authorities as an addendum to planning enforcement. The Secretary of State may well have seen recent media reports about this issue. Will he undertake to look into it and to issue guidance to local authorities, explaining that while they have many tools at their disposal, the Proceeds of Crime Act is not one of them?
Context
The Proceeds of Crime Act is being used by local authorities for planning enforcement, contrary to its intended use.
Steve Reed
The hon. Gentleman has raised an important point, and I am happy to arrange a meeting with the appropriate Minister so that he can share his concerns and we can come to a resolution.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is often harder to see because it is more sparsely spread across larger rural areas, but I remind the Minister of what I know he knows: deprivation exists in our rural areas. Can I urge him to ensure that this does not become an issue of north versus south or urban versus rural, but that the Government use taxes to address deprivation wherever and whenever it arises, including in my constituency?
Context
Deprivation exists in sparsely populated rural areas. The previous government's funding policies have not adequately addressed deprivation in these regions.
The Minister for Local Government and English Devolution (Jim McMahon)
I thank the former Minister for those representations. On the point about fair funding and unpicking where money is needed, there is a lot of commonality on this issue in the Chamber. We absolutely accept that in rural areas the cost of service delivery is higher in some cases, such as for refuse collection and adult social care. It is common sense that if people have to travel further to pick up bins or make a home care visit, it will cost more money as a result.
Session: Deprived Areas Funding
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Given the environmental importance and scarcity of chalk streams, may I urge the Deputy Prime Minister and her team to support amendments to this afternoon’s legislation that would protect those streams? They are vital, and they need as much protection as we can give them.
Context
Chalk streams are environmentally important but scarce. They need additional protection beyond existing measures.
Matthew Pennycook (The Minister for Housing and Planning)
As the hon. Gentleman will know, chalk streams already have protections in national planning policy, but I am sure that we will continue this discussion on Report of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill later today.
Session: Topical Questions
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Pensioners and farmers in North Dorset face significant financial strain from the high cost of asylum hotels. Given that the current system is expensive, how will the government reduce these costs?
Context
Local pensioners and farmers are facing financial burdens due to high costs associated with asylum hotel usage.
The Minister for Border Security and Asylum (Dame Angela Eagle)
We inherited a chaotic immigration system from the Conservatives. Our approach involves speeding up the process and ending backlogs, thus moving people out of hotels as part of our strategy to reduce asylum accommodation costs.
Session: Asylum Seekers Hotels
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A significant impediment to improving adult social care is the split of budget and responsibility and policy between the Secretary of State's Department and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Will he and colleagues work to remove that hurdle, to have better outcomes more cost-effectively delivered to improve the lives of all our constituents?
Context
The split of budget and responsibility between the Secretary of State's Department and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government impedes improvements in adult social care.
Wes Streeting
The hon. Gentleman is right to raise that risk. I assure him and the House that I and the Deputy Prime Minister, herself a former care worker, are working in lockstep to align strategy, policy and delivery.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Anglo-Irish agreement is absolutely vital, and the meeting between the Prime Minister and the Taoiseach is to be welcomed. Prime Ministers' diaries become very full; will the Secretary of State use his good offices to ensure that that dialogue between Taoiseach and Prime Minister continues to build on that relationship to see it flourish still further?
Context
The question asks about the Secretary of State's role in ensuring regular dialogue between Prime Minister and Taoiseach.
Hilary Benn
I can indeed give that assurance. My right hon. and learned Friend the Prime Minister has agreed there will be an annual summit.
Session: Relations with Ireland
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Will he agree to meet me and my fierce campaigner constituent Sacha Langton-Gilks, who lost her son to a brain tumour, to discuss how NHS England could be persuaded to do more to inform and educate parents to identify the symptoms?
Context
Sacha Langton-Gilks lost her son to a brain tumour and is campaigning for better awareness.
Andrew Gwynne
I can confirm that I am more than happy to meet him and his constituents now that I have dropped the “shadow”.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will he assure the House that whatever resources are required by the PSNI, not only to fulfil its function but to protect its own officers and staff, will be made available?
Context
A data breach involving the Police Service of Northern Ireland has raised concerns about national security, particularly for officers working with counter-terrorism and intelligence units.
Chris Heaton-Harris
The Government supports the PSNI in responding to the data breach. The focus remains on providing specialist support and expertise from across government.
Session: Police Funding
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My hon. Friend will know that many groups in Northern Ireland provide advice to people to help with the cost of living and other challenges. Many of those organisations receive funding from the shared prosperity fund. That notwithstanding, may I urge the Minister to talk to Ministers in the relevant Department to ensure that there is a bespoke definition and that the unique circumstances of Northern Ireland are taken into account when making funding determinations under the shared prosperity fund?
Context
Organizations in Northern Ireland face challenges that may not be fully addressed by the shared prosperity fund.
Steven Baker
My hon. Friend makes a good point. May I encourage him to meet me to discuss exactly what should be in that definition? I would be grateful if he did.
Session: Cost of Living
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Welcome support for farmers in Dorset and across the country would be for the Department and Government as a whole to learn the lessons on trade deals, as pointed out by the Secretary of State's predecessor but one, my right hon. Friend the Member for Camborne and Redruth (George Eustice). Can the Secretary of State set out the discussions that she has with Ministers about trade deals, to ensure that UK farmers' interests, food production and security are at the heart of the discussions?
Context
The Department needs to learn lessons from previous trade deal negotiations to ensure that UK farmers' interests, food production, and security are prioritized.
Therese Coffey
I assure my hon. Friend that I see my role as Secretary of State as ensuring that we have productive trade agreements, which include exports as well as potential imports. It is important, and it has been a key part of our negotiations, that we not only protect our sanitary and phytosanitary and animal welfare standards but ensure that any impact on the domestic market is sufficient that British farmers continue to grow, and rear, their brilliant British food and livestock.
Session: Topical Questions
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Can the Secretary of State update us on the status and continuity of funding for services affected by the lack of a functioning Executive in Northern Ireland?
Context
The MP mentioned issues faced by community groups in Northern Ireland due to the lack of a functioning Executive, affecting EU fund replacements.
Michael Gove
My hon. Friend has been vigilant on behalf of communities in Northern Ireland. We will make a statement later this week.
Session: Topical Questions
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At the time of a cost of living crisis, clearly, too many people are feeling the adverse effect of the absence of Stormont. I urge my right hon. Friend to give peace of mind to those who are most in need and sort out this pressing issue by Christmas so that people have that peace of mind and can try to enjoy the festive period.
Context
The question arises from a BBC 'Spotlight' programme that highlights the activities of loan sharks and paramilitaries in Northern Ireland, affecting vulnerable people who are awaiting financial assistance for fuel costs. The MP echoes comments made by another member regarding this issue.
Chris Heaton-Harris
I am fully aware of the activities of paramilitary lenders. There have been dozens of meetings between various Secretaries of State, energy companies and a whole host of others to try to get this matter solved. The British Government is concentrating on this one issue with significant energy and wants to crack this nut in the timeframe suggested.
Session: Northern Ireland Executive
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Does the Secretary of State dispute that, or will he make changes to it? The Joint Committee on Human Rights has declared that the Bill is unlikely to be found compatible with convention rights. The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission has called it “fatally flawed”.
Context
The Joint Committee on Human Rights has declared that the Bill is unlikely to be found compatible with convention rights, raising concerns about its effectiveness.
Chris Heaton-Harris
I am going to make changes to it.
Session: Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill
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My right hon. Friend the Minister of State will know that the cost of living will continue to be exacerbated by the absence of Stormont and a functioning Executive. Protocol issues are being prayed in aid as an inhibitor to the restoration of Stormont. He has worked his socks off over the summer to try to bring things to a helpful and meaningful conclusion. Is he in a position to update the House on the progress he has made?
Context
The absence of a functioning Executive at Stormont is exacerbating the cost of living crisis. Protocol issues are being seen as an inhibitor to the restoration of devolved government in Northern Ireland.
Conor Burns
The Chairman of the Select Committee asks about an incredibly important point. Getting a restored devolved Government in Northern Ireland will help enormously in delivering for the people of Northern Ireland. We absolutely acknowledge that the protocol—its interpretation and application—is the impediment to the Democratic Unionist party going back into government, and we will fix that.
Session: Cost of Living Increases
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Given that so much policy that affects and benefits business is devolved, is not the best support that politicians of all stripes could give Northern Irish business to get Stormont back up and running?
Context
The question is prompted by the recognition that much policy affecting and benefiting business is devolved. It suggests that restoring full functionality to the Northern Ireland Assembly would be the best form of support for local businesses.
Brandon Lewis
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. We all want to see Stormont back up and running. It is important that we see all the Ministers back with their full powers. We have caretaker Ministers in place now, thanks to legislation that we passed recently, but having Stormont making spending decisions, getting money out the door and supporting businesses and people in Northern Ireland is the right thing to do.
Session: Trade between NI and rest of UK
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In those discussions with Cabinet colleagues, will my right hon. Friend commit to pointing out that there would be hypocrisy if we were to break our internationally agreed obligations after pointing out to others the importance of abiding by such systems?
Context
There are discussions about the importance of abiding by an international rules-based system, particularly in relation to Russia and the Northern Ireland protocol.
Brandon Lewis
Our position has been consistent since March 2019, emphasising that if the protocol's objectives are not being served proportionately, we can seek agreement to end its provisions. The objectives of the protocol respect the Good Friday agreement.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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What further steps can his Department take to disrupt their activity, particularly through unexplained wealth orders?
Context
Thuggery and criminality by self-styled paramilitaries are threatening stability.
Brandon Lewis
We have been making progress in this area. We work in partnership with and support the Northern Ireland Department of Justice in the devolved areas, as well as with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and other partners, who are doing phenomenal work. We have seen real success this year, and in the crackdown over the past 12 to 18 months on criminal gangs.
Session: Stability
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The announcement made last week by my right hon. Friend regarding historical institutional abuse will have been greeted very warmly by those people who were abused in Northern Ireland but now live in Great Britain. On behalf of the Select Committee, which did a lot of work in this area, may I thank her for listening to our representations, making this important policy change and ensuring that there is equity and fairness in this important area of financial support and redress?
Context
The questioner thanks the Minister for an announcement regarding historical institutional abuse, which will affect those who were abused in Northern Ireland but now live in Great Britain.
Therese Coffey
I thank my hon. Friend. He will be aware that in the original primary legislation, which allowed for disregard, only Northern Ireland specifically was considered, so I am very pleased to have brought that disregard forward. At the same time, we wanted to take a consistent approach, so I am pleased that we will be applying the same disregards to the forthcoming payments being made by the Scottish Government and through, I think, Islington and Lambeth Councils. I commend him and his Committee Members for their pursuit of the matter.
Session: Topical Questions
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If proposals are to secure traction, they will have to be compliant with article 2, and we will need a fully fleshed out plan for truth and reconciliation. Can he give assurances on both points?
Context
Ensuring compliance with Article 2 and the development of a truth and reconciliation plan.
Brandon Lewis
Yes, my hon. Friend is absolutely right. The Command Paper made clear ensuring investigations continue. There will be an information recovery body to get to the truth in ways not seen before. We are determined to deliver on that and ensure what we deliver is Article 2 compliant.
Session: Consultations on Addressing Legacy of Northern Ireland's Past Victims Groups
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I welcome my right hon. Friend and Dorset colleague the Minister of State to his place. I am sure he will agree that political stability is a key element in creating jobs and attracting investment. Will he do all he can to ensure we have a fully functioning Stormont, working hard to improve the economic situation in Northern Ireland?
Context
Concern over political stability in Northern Ireland impacting economic growth.
Conor Burns
I entirely agree with my hon. Friend the Chairman of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee and that is why the Secretary of State and I were both at this Dispatch Box yesterday for Report and Third Reading of the Northern Ireland (Ministers, Elections and Petitions of Concern) Bill, a vital tool agreed under New Decade, New Approach to provide enhanced stability to the institutions in Northern Ireland, but ultimately it is for the parties in Northern Ireland to work together to deliver for the people of Northern Ireland.
Session: Jobs and Investment
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Jo Cox was a part of my intake in 2015, making us miss her deeply. Does my right hon. Friend agree that mutual trust is key to sorting out the position on the Northern Ireland protocol? What actions are being taken as Secretary of State to ensure that this issue of trust and its importance is understood across Whitehall?
Context
There is a focus on building mutual understanding and trust between UK and EU officials as well as with civil society and businesses in Northern Ireland. Previous meetings have highlighted the importance of this approach.
Brandon Lewis
My hon. Friend makes an important point. I work closely with Lord Foster on these issues, emphasizing mutual understanding and trust. Engaging civil society and businesses in Northern Ireland is fundamental for building this trust, ensuring that the protocol delivers as intended.
Session: Negotiations Lord Frost and the European Commission
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Will the Secretary of State assure that PSNI has adequate resourcing to proactively interrupt and monitor social media platforms?
Context
Social media platforms are used to communicate types of disorder.
Brandon Lewis
The Government supports the police with access to capabilities for dealing with social media issues, recognising that policing is a devolved matter.
Session: Recent Disorder
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May I echo the thanks to the hon. Member for Bristol South (Karin Smyth) and welcome the hon. Member for Pontypridd (Alex Davies-Jones) to her Opposition Front-Bench duties? I welcome the general attitude of the Government towards resolving the issues on the protocol: they are right, and the Secretary of State will have our support as he goes forward. However, I urge him to really put some pressure on the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to better explain to GB businesses what they need to do, how they need to do it and when they need to do it in order to sell their goods into the very welcoming market that is Northern Ireland?
Context
There is a need for better information and guidance from the Government to help GB businesses understand how to sell their goods into Northern Ireland's market.
Brandon Lewis
I thank my hon. Friend for outlining this issue. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is very keen to ensure that GB businesses have all the information they need. My hon. Friend is right to highlight the fact that a number of the issues we have found relate to companies in Great Britain not appreciating what they can do in order to continue their smooth supplies to people in Northern Ireland. We want to ensure that that is the case. I encourage businesses to engage particularly with the trader support service, which is there to help businesses and, as I say, has phenomenal response and success rates in helping them to ensure that they can deliver.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol Implementation
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On behalf of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee, I welcome the movement on the historical institutional abuse payments but there are other issues remaining. Can he give a commitment that the consultation will conclude with draft legislation published and a delivery route plan in public domain by summer recess?
Context
The question concerns the ongoing consultations and timeline for addressing legacy issues related to historical institutional abuse.
Brandon Lewis
The work is ongoing, focusing on legacy matters despite delays due to covid. The Committee's recent piece of work has been helpful and the engagement process continues.
Session: Payment Scheme for Victims of the Troubles
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Would the creation of an independent fiscal council enhance spending requirements and demands made by and within Northern Ireland, likely receiving more attention in the Treasury?
Context
Proposal to create an independent fiscal council for Northern Ireland, which would act as a convincing mouthpiece for spending pleas.
Brandon Lewis
An independent fiscal council was first agreed to in 2015 and recommitted to this year. Talks are ongoing with the Executive about its establishment by autumn, which will help for budgeting purposes and ensure transparency in money spent in Northern Ireland.
Session: Structural and Investment Funding Transition Period
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Can the Minister assure me that the importance of combating these issues is understood by the government?
Context
The question highlights concerns about criminal activity, smuggling, and modern slavery in the context of a no-deal Brexit.
Robin Walker
The Chair of the Select Committee is conducting an important inquiry. We have plans in place, acknowledging security implications including border checks and cooperation between police forces.
Session: Leaving the EU without a Deal
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Can he assure that delivering the NDNA in full has his energy and commitment, considering its importance for progress and peace?
Context
Concerns about the full delivery of the agreement despite challenges such as covid-19 and Brexit.
Brandon Lewis
Yes. Delivering the NDNA in full is important. Legislation will be brought forward as needed, discussions with First Minister and Deputy First Minister ensure progress weekly, independent fiscal council work continues, joint board meetings are held regularly.
Session: New Decade, New Approach Implementation
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My right hon. Friend is correct to highlight the £150 million allocated but the pension scheme's funding remains a concern as noted by the Select Committee. Can he confirm that additional moneys required beyond the £150 million will be provided via the block grant so justice can be served and payments made in full and on time?
Context
The New Decade, New Approach agreement set aside £150 million for resolving historical cases. However, concerns remain about funding the pension scheme adequately.
Brandon Lewis (Secretary of State for Northern Ireland)
This matter is devolved with funding coming from the block grant. Discussions will proceed as usual, but given that the money is already set aside, the Executive can move forward and start making these essential payments to those who have waited long enough.
Session: Payments for Victims of the Troubles
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Considering recent Select Committee hearings, is there merit in providing stepping-stones between now and December 2020 to aid business preparation?
Context
Reflection on the need for clarity and guidance to help businesses prepare effectively.
Brandon Lewis (Minister without Portfolio)
We are working with Northern Ireland businesses and the Executive, including through an established forum, to set out further details for end-of-transition preparation. Additional guidance will be published this summer to assist in proper preparation by December 2020.
Session: Business Support Transition Period
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Acknowledging that the skills base needs support to grow, will he ensure that the voice of the Northern Irish economy is heard in relation to immigration policies? Some indications from the Migration Advisory Committee report are welcomed by businesses.
Context
The economy requires a skilled, motivated workforce which is supported by the skills base in Northern Ireland.
Robin Walker (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland)
I congratulate my hon. Friend on re-election as Chair; he makes an important point, and I confirm that concerns will be communicated across Government including to the Home Office.
Session: Northern Ireland Economy
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Election Processes And Voter Id Rules Updates
20 March 2024
Main Concerns
['I am concerned that the current electoral processes need to be updated due to changing world conditions and challenges such as populism and social media. I recognise that while our elections have been robust and fair, we cannot rest on our laurels given the pressure on western democratic principles.']
Specific Asks
['The Government should continue to review and update voter ID rules and processes iteratively and organically in response to technological changes and new forms of identification, ensuring they are fit for purpose. We need to ensure that everyone eligible to vote has the ability to do so without barriers.']
Air Traffic Control Disruption
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Retirement Property Management Companies: Regulation
08 September 2026
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Ministerial Statement
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Early Release of Prisoners
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Civil Service Pensions
06 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
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Farming Road Map and Profitability Review
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Ministerial Statement
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24 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
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The Royal Albert Hall (Charitable Corporation) Bill - Revival Motion
15 June 2026
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Lebanon: Israel Defence Forces Operations
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General Debate
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Asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs to make a statement on the Israel Defence Forces’ operations in Lebanon. Emphasised that the IDF is expanding its i...
Attendance
74.5%
73 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
44
44.9% of votes
No Votes
29
29.6% of votes
Abstentions
25
25.5% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
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
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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
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 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
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 NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
7
PMQs Asked
35
Ministerial Questions Asked
185
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
7
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
+91% above average
This MP:
7
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+161% above average
This MP:
35
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3707% above average
This MP:
185
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-26% below average
This MP:
7
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+8% above average
This MP:
74.5
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 Simon Hoare's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.