Stephen Kinnock
MP for Aberafan Maesteg
Lab
7 May 2015 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Steel- workers in my constituency have watched in frustration as other Governments have pumped investment into decarbonisation while successive Tory Governments have sat on their hands. When will the Prime Minister finally conclude the talks with Tata Steel? Can he guarantee that level of investment will match what other European Governments are doing on decarbonisation? And will he guarantee that the conclusion will be based on serious engagement, comprehensively with the steel unions?
Context
Steel workers in the constituency are frustrated with government's lack of action on steel investment, while other European governments are providing support for decarbonisation. The local Tata Steel plant is crucial.
Rishi Sunak
Steel is absolutely vital to the UK. This matter is of course of interest to the hon. Gentleman, but I have also discussed it extensively with my hon. Friend the Member for Scunthorpe (Holly Mumby-Croft), and that is because the industry supports local jobs and economic growth. Conversations with specific companies, such as Tata, are ongoing, but they are understandably commercially sensitive. We share the ambition of securing a decarbonised, sustainable and competitive future for the industry in this country. In the meantime, we are supporting the sector with our energy-intensive industries exemption, which provides discounted energy bills. We also have the industrial energy transformation fund, which supports steel companies with their energy bills and the transition through capital to a greener future.
Assessment
Did not provide specific timelines or guarantees on investment levels matching other European countries
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Yesterday, the Prime Minister stood on the steps of Downing Street and said that he wanted to restore trust, yet in the past 24 hours, we have seen that he is prepared shamelessly to swap red boxes for political support. There are serious consequences to all this horse-trading, so I would like him to be clear on this point: did he seek or receive any advice on security concerns about the right hon. Member for South Staffordshire (Sir Gavin Williamson) before his appointment to the Government yesterday, given that the right hon. Member was sacked in 2019 for leaking sensitive information relating to our national security?
Context
Gavin Williamson was sacked in 2019 for leaking sensitive information related to national security. There are serious consequences to political appointments based on horse-trading.
Rishi Sunak
The hon. Member is talking about events that happened four years ago. He is right to raise the topic of national security, because four years ago Opposition Members were busy supporting the right hon. Member for Islington North (Jeremy Corbyn), who wanted to abolish the nuclear deterrent, leave NATO and scrap our armed forces.
Assessment
Security concerns about Gavin Williamson's appointment
Events That Happened Four Years Ago
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
A thriving steel industry is the foundation of a more productive and resilient Britain, yet bickering between the Chancellor and the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is blocking the chance to tackle the sky-high energy prices that our steelmakers have been facing since long before the current price spikes. With the pathway to net zero being dependent on steel firms using more electricity, not less, will the Prime Minister urge his colleagues around the Cabinet table to put in place a wholesale energy price cap, along with long overdue reductions in network connection costs? COP will not work without a cap.
Context
The steel industry's foundation for a more productive Britain is threatened by bickering over energy price caps.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Gentleman makes a very important point about the high energy costs for energy-intensive industries, and that is why we have abated them with about £2 billion since 2013. The answer is to do what we are doing, which is to make up the long-term baseload needs of this economy by investing in nuclear, as I am afraid Labour failed to do in its 13 lost years, and in renewables.
Assessment
specific ask about energy price cap and reduction costs
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
The Port Talbot steelworks is crucial for post-pandemic recovery, but the business interruption loan scheme's cap of £50 million may not suffice. Stephen Kinnock asks if the government will lift this cap to support Tata Steel and the wider industry through the crisis.
Context
Tata Steel has estimated a significant financial impact due to the pandemic.
Dominic Raab (The First Secretary of State and Leader of the Commons)
Business interruption loans are available, with changes made to expedite access; 12,000 loans have been approved. The steel sector in Stephen Kinnock's constituency is under review by the Chancellor to ensure targeted support for essential economic elements.
Session: PMQs
View Full Session -->
Had the Government assessed the broader impact of job cuts on contractors and sub-contractors when £500 million was given to Tata?
Context
Analysis suggests that cutting 2,800 Tata Steel employees could lead to up to 9,500 additional job losses.
Alan Mak
The Tata transition board has a dedicated group supporting contractors and supply chain partners, ensuring they receive similar support.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
When it is finally introduced, the carbon border adjustment mechanism will provide a vital tool to ensure that British steelworkers have a level playing field so that they can compete against heavily polluting steel industries in other parts of the world, but recent media reports have indicated that India is lobbying No. 10 for an exemption from the UK CBAM.
Context
The carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) is intended to ensure a level playing field for British steelworkers by imposing tariffs on high-polluting imports. Recent media reports suggest India may seek an exemption.
Alan Mak
I was pleased to visit the hon. Gentleman's constituency as part of my first round of visits in this new role. I look forward to meeting him again later this month. He is right that the Government are committed to ensuring that UK decarbonisation efforts lead to a true reduction in global emissions. The CBAM policy is still being designed. The consultation is ongoing, and I recommend that he contributes to it.
Session: Steel Supply Chain Jobs
View All Questions -->
My constituents who live on the Abbottsmoor estate in Port Talbot are locked into paying unjustified and extortionate ground rent fees and charges for poor maintenance. Will the Secretary of State commit to strengthening the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bill by ensuring that all leaseholders have the right to vary their lease, setting ground rents to a peppercorn, ensuring that premiums are as cheap as possible, regulating managing agents, and abolishing forfeiture?
Context
Residents on Abbottsmoor estate in Port Talbot are paying high ground rent fees.
Michael Gove
I always listen with respect to arguments made by a Kinnock, and in this case, I think the hon. Gentleman is broadly—in the right territory.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Under successive Conservative Governments since 2010, returns of failed asylum seekers have collapsed by 44%, and returns of foreign national offenders have fallen by almost 30% over the same period. For all the Government's tough talk, only 2% of those arriving on small boats since 2018 have been returned anywhere, yet Ministers are still resisting Labour's plan for a new returns and enforcement unit to ensure the swift removal of those with no right to be here. Meanwhile, over the weekend, more people crossed the channel in small boats than will be covered in the entire first year of the Government's failing Rwanda scheme. Will the Minister stop the headline-chasing gimmicks and instead commit to setting out his plan for the 99% of people currently stuck in the asylum system who will never be sent to Rwanda?
Context
The question highlights the reduction in returns under Conservative Governments since 2010 and questions the effectiveness of current policies.
Michael Tomlinson
The fact of the matter is that nearly 18,000 foreign national offenders were returned between January 2019 and December 2023. The fact of the matter is that Opposition Members, including the leader of the Labour party, have campaigned to prevent the deportation of foreign criminals, while Government Members welcome an increase of 74%, with an average of 500 people being removed every single week.
Session: Returning Illegal Migrants to their Home Country
View All Questions -->
I have repeatedly asked Ministers whether any strings were attached to the £500 million of taxpayers' money that was given to Tata Steel, particularly with regard to job guarantees. I have not had a straight answer, so I will try again today. Can the Secretary of State please confirm whether any conditionality was attached to the £500 million, or did the Government simply buy Tata Steel's bluff about closure, and give it £500 million so that we could make 2,800 people redundant?
Context
The questioner has repeatedly asked about the conditions or guarantees on £500 million of taxpayers' money given to Tata Steel.
Nusrat Ghani
The hon. Gentleman attends the transition board meetings, so he knows that his question is not really relevant to what he is trying to get to the bottom of. We provided £500 million to ensure that steel making continues in Port Talbot. Tata made it clear that it was uneconomic and unsustainable to continue with steel making, so the support that we have given will ensure that north of 5,000 jobs will continue in Port Talbot, and it will support supply chains. On top of that, £100 million has been provided to the transition board, so that its members, including the hon. Gentleman, the unions and all the local representatives, can ensure that local people who need to go through transition get the support that they need. Without that support, there would not be any future steel making at Port Talbot.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Since our last Home Office questions, the list of Government failures on immigration has continued to grow relentlessly: 30,000 asylum seekers stuck in limbo, unable to be processed due to the Prime Minister's legislative fiasco; 250 visas awarded to a care home that does not actually exist; net migration trebled; and criminals free to fly into our country undetected on private jets. Having just sacked the independent inspector of borders and immigration, is the Home Secretary sitting on 15 different reports by the inspector because he is checking for typos, or is it because he is utterly terrified of what those reports will tell us about this Government's shambolic and failing immigration system?
Context
MP lists Home Office failures and questions the reason for not meeting with the independent inspector of borders.
Tom Pursglove
Let me answer that point very directly: having given proper consideration to those reports, we will be responding to them. As I said in the House last week, we will do so very soon. The shadow Minister mentioned the Government trying to dodge scrutiny. When it comes to the general aviation report, for example, it was our officials who asked the inspector to take it forward. Far from dodging scrutiny, we have invited it in that area.
Session: Legal Migration
View All Questions -->
Ministers keep spinning this line that Tata Steel was threatening to close down the Port Talbot works and walk away; they know dismantling costs were vast. Is the £500m taxpayers' money given without conditions? Was PM giving green light for 2,800 redundancies?
Context
The MP questions the conditions attached to the £500m investment given to Tata Steel, suggesting it was an empty bluff.
Nusrat Ghani
Steelworkers should know we are working together. We work closely on protecting steelworkers as much as possible, rejecting claims that it would be better to risk losing UK steelmaking and managing site costs.
Session: Steel Industry
View All Questions -->
Whether she has had recent discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on taking fiscal steps to help support the steel industry. The steel sector is crucial for UK economy; without £500m investment, 8,000 jobs at Port Talbot and 12,500 in supply chain would be at risk.
Context
The MP is concerned about the fiscal steps to support the steel industry, citing recent discussions and potential impacts on jobs in Port Talbot.
Nusrat Ghani
The Chancellor and I meet regularly. We know the importance of the steel sector; we are investing over £500m in Port Talbot site. More than £100m has been provided for affected employees and local economy, with Tata providing additional £130m support.
Session: Steel Industry
View All Questions -->
Since 2010, removals of rejected asylum seekers have dropped by 50%. Over the weekend, it was revealed that nearly 90% of those identified for removal to Rwanda are untraceable. Where are these individuals? Will you acknowledge the failure of the Rwanda plan and adopt Labour's proposal to recruit more immigration officers?
Context
The number of rejected asylum seekers removed from the UK has fallen since Labour left office in 2010. Recent reports indicate that over 85% of identified individuals for removal to Rwanda are missing.
James Cleverly
The mask has slipped. The Labour party says they would scrap a successful Rwanda scheme, showing their lack of commitment. They have no plan.
Session: Asylum Application Backlog
View All Questions -->
Since the previous Home Secretary was removed, has the Immigration Minister become a law unto himself? Has he briefed the media against his new boss's wishes?
Context
The previous Home Secretary's removal and recent media briefings about legal obligations.
Robert Jenrick
The sad truth is that they have complete disdain for the British public. The Home Secretary and I will do everything in our power to reduce both legal and illegal migration, working closely with the Prime Minister.
Session: Illegal Migration Small Boats
View All Questions -->
OpenDemocracy recently revealed the extent of self-harm and suicide in immigration removal centres—in particular, Harmondsworth and Colnbrook, where 24 self-harm incidents occurred in March, which is more than over the three previous months combined. Emma Ginn, director of Medical Justice, has said: “We are not confident that the Home Office considers the value of the lives of those in its care in detention as fully human.” What is the Home Secretary doing to ensure that those in Home Office immigration removal centres do not face such desperate circumstances that they seek to take their own lives?
Context
Incidents of self-harm and suicide in immigration removal centres, such as Harmondsworth and Colnbrook, have increased dramatically.
Suella Braverman
As I said, the safety of all of those in our care is a priority for the Home Office, and the standard of habitation—whether that is in our asylum accommodation estate more broadly, or specifically in our immigration removal centres—is one that always, as far as the law requires, meets high standards. Those standards are rigorously scrutinised and monitored, and those who have concerns have avenues to make complaints via the migrant helpline.
Session: Refugee and Asylum Seeker Accommodation
View All Questions -->
What steps is the Secretary of State taking with Cabinet colleagues to secure FLOWMIS to maximise the benefits of the Celtic sea freeport?
Context
The MP highlights the importance of FLOWMIS to support infrastructure development for floating offshore wind manufacturing in the port.
James Davies
The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right about that. He may also be aware of yesterday's announcement of the leasing area in the Celtic sea for floating offshore wind. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has regular meetings with stakeholders, as do I, about FLOWMIS and the necessary infrastructure to bring that into being.
Session: Freeports
View All Questions -->
The hon. Member highlights a once-in-a-generation opportunity in Wales and across the UK with the development of floating offshore wind. He asks when an industrial strategy will be brought forward to ensure Welsh manufacturing and jobs are placed at the heart of turbine and substructure fabrication, starting with seabed licensing.
Context
The Climate Change Committee criticized the government for failing to deliver on their net zero commitment. The hon. Member is concerned that without proper direction and strategy, the opportunities presented by floating offshore wind will be squandered.
Graham Stuart
The hon. Gentleman's points are acknowledged; the Government is committed to realizing industrial benefits, including opportunities in Wales. £31 million of government funding has been allocated for innovation through the floating wind demonstration programme.
Session: Floating Offshore Wind Supply Chain
View All Questions -->
The hon. Member is concerned that due to the lack of grip and direction, the Government may squander the opportunity presented by the development of floating offshore wind in the Celtic sea. He asks when an industrial strategy will be brought forward to ensure Welsh manufacturing and jobs are placed at the heart of turbine and substructure fabrication.
Context
The Climate Change Committee criticized the government for failing to deliver on their net zero commitment. The development of floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea is seen as a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Wales and the UK.
Graham Stuart
The hon. Gentleman is thanked for his question. The Government are committed to maintaining leadership in the floating offshore wind sector by supporting innovation with £31 million of government funding matched by industry.
Session: Floating Offshore Wind Supply Chain
View All Questions -->
The Government's destruction of their own asylum system can best be described as an act of arson and their plans to fix it are utterly farcical. They have sent more Home Secretaries than asylum seekers to Rwanda. They sent the Prime Minister on a victory lap in Dover, apparently failing to notice that the weather improves over the summer and the boat numbers increase. And they were in such a flap about losing votes on their bigger backlog Bill that they resorted to dragging Lord Lebedev of Siberia into the Division Lobby. Now the Court of Appeal ruling has revealed that Rwanda is able to process only 100 claims per year—around 0.3% of those who arrived on small boats last year. Can the Minister tell me what he is planning to do with the remaining 99.7%, and does he therefore agree that the prospect of the Rwanda plan actually deterring any migrant from crossing the channel is close to zero?
Context
The UK's asylum system is under scrutiny due to court rulings questioning the viability of the Rwanda plan, with a Court of Appeal ruling indicating that Rwanda can process only 100 claims per year.
Robert Jenrick
I used to say that the Labour party does not have a plan, but the truth is that it does have a plan, but it is a plan that would make things significantly worse. It is a plan that would ensure more granting of cases; more safe and legal routes, so even more individuals would come here; more hotels; and more cost to the British taxpayer.
Session: Asylum Application Backlog
View All Questions -->
When will we see the Government stepping up and investing in green steel as is being done in competitor countries, and when can we expect the introduction of a British CBAM? The UK Steel has estimated that nearly 23 million tonnes of non-EU steel could flood the UK market if the UK fails to introduce its own carbon border adjustment mechanism at the same time as the EU in 2026.
Context
The UK steel sector faces increased competition from non-EU countries due to the absence of a carbon border adjustment mechanism, leading to concerns about market flooding.
Nusrat Ghani
We have been supporting the steel industry with more than £1 billion available in grants for decarbonisation since 2013. More than £730 million has also been provided to cover energy costs. The carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) will begin a transitional reporting phase in October, followed by full introduction in 2026.
Session: Steel Industry Decarbonisation
View All Questions -->
What steps she is taking to help the steel industry to decarbonise. The Government are not doing enough, particularly in comparison with competitor nations, when it comes to investment in the transition to decarbonised steel. UK Steel has estimated that nearly 23 million tonnes of non-EU steel could flood the UK market if the UK fails to introduce its own carbon border adjustment mechanism at the same time as the EU in 2026.
Context
The steel industry faces significant challenges in reducing emissions by 93% by 2050 as per the Paris agreement, and concerns have been raised about government investment compared to competitor nations.
Nusrat Ghani
We have been supporting the steel industry with more than £1 billion available in grants for decarbonisation since 2013. More than £730 million has also been provided to cover energy costs. The carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) will begin a transitional reporting phase in October, followed by full introduction in 2026.
Session: Steel Industry Decarbonisation
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to support the steel industry in Wales. The Governments of the United States and the EU have developed active industrial strategies, with multi-billion-pound investments to support their steel industries as they transition to green steel production. Here in the UK, the cavalry is coming in the form of a Labour Government and our £3 billion green steel fund. What a contrast with the Government party, which is completely and utterly asleep at the wheel on steel.
Context
The question highlights the lack of support from the UK government compared to other countries for transitioning their steel industries towards green production.
James Davies
The hon. Member will be aware that the Secretary of State for Business and Trade visited Tata Steel in Port Talbot only recently. That shows her commitment to it. He will also be aware of the British Industry Supercharger announced only a few months ago, which aims to bring energy costs for energy-intensive industries such as steel production in line with those of other similar countries.
Session: Steel Industry
View All Questions -->
What steps he is taking to support the steel industry in Wales. The Governments of the United States and the EU have developed active industrial strategies, with multi-billion-pound investments to support their steel industries as they transition to green steel production. Here in the UK, the cavalry is coming in the form of a Labour Government and our £3 billion green steel fund. What a contrast with the Government party, which is completely and utterly asleep at the wheel on steel.
Context
The question addresses the lack of support from the UK government compared to other countries for transitioning their steel industries towards green production.
James Davies
Steel is vital to the UK. We are actively engaging with our industry to secure a positive and sustainable future. Industrial sectors, including steel, have been able to bid for Government funds worth more than £1 billion to support them to cut emissions and become more energy efficient.
Session: Steel Industry
View All Questions -->
Ending small boat crossings is one way to reduce immigration, but asylum seekers are only a fraction of net migration. The reason businesses rely on migrant labour is that Conservative governments have cut skills budgets and failed to get people off NHS waiting lists. Is the Home Secretary committed to the 2019 manifesto pledge of bringing net migration below 226,000?
Context
Net migration remains high in Scotland despite repeated warnings from Labour about the need to train home-grown talent.
Robert Jenrick
Let us be clear: this party wants to bring down net migration. I have no idea what Labour wants to do; their last government had an open-door policy on migration. We will control migration, unlike Labour's approach.
Session: Immigration Policies Scotland
View All Questions -->
I am honoured to chair the all-party group on steel, and, as such, I have invited the Secretary of State to meet us, as all four of her predecessors have agreed to do. I am very disappointed that she has declined to do so. I urge her to reconsider that position. The US is investing $282 billion in green manufacturing. The Spanish and German Governments are each investing £1 billion in the decarbonisation of their steel industries. Labour would match that opportunity with a £3 billion clean steel fund, but the Government's response to date has been woefully inadequate. When will the Secretary of State bring forward a steel transition strategy that matches up with what our competitors are doing and that matches the ambition of our professional and dedicated steelworkers?
Context
The US and other countries are investing heavily in green manufacturing, decarbonisation of steel industries, while the UK has yet to match such investments.
Kemi Badenoch
I have not declined to meet the all-party group on steel; I just said that it was subject to diary requirements. Where I have been is in the hon. Gentleman's constituency, visiting the steelworks. I did notify him before we went there, but he showed absolutely no interest in accompanying me to visit the steelworks in his constituency.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
I am honoured to be the chair of the all-party parliamentary group for steel and metal related industries. However, may I raise again the issue of her Sky interview in which she said, or certainly strongly implied, that it is not a given that we should have a steel industry in this country? Given the rise of authoritarian regimes around the world, the massive role that steel plays in providing good jobs for families and the vital role it plays in decarbonisation, may I invite the Secretary of State to come to the Dispatch Box and clarify her position—that steel is, in fact, a given in the United Kingdom?
Context
The MP, chair of the all-party parliamentary group for steel and metal related industries, seeks clarification from the Secretary of State regarding her Sky interview where she implied uncertainty about a UK steel industry.
Nusrat Ghani
Unfortunately, I have to come to the Dispatch Box—that is just the way it works—so I disappoint the hon. Member by not being the Secretary of State. However, he knows that steel is absolutely key to our sovereignty and security and for the resilience of all our sectors.
Session: Energy-intensive Industries
View All Questions -->
Where will she detain the tens of thousands of asylum seekers forecast to arrive this year?
Context
The MP challenged the government's plan for detaining and removing asylum seekers, citing lack of facilities and agreements.
Suella Braverman
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his approach to entertaining the House today, but let us compare what the Labour party has done over the last 10 days with what the Government have done. In the last 10 days, the Prime Minister and I have secured a big deal with the French to increase cross-channel co-operation.
Session: Illegal Migration Bill Asylum Seekers
View All Questions -->
In 2019, the then Conservative Home Secretary said that she would end small boat crossings in a matter of months. Since then, the number of crossings has increased from 1,000 to 45,000, with the criminal gangs laughing all the way to the bank. Last year, Ministers promised that the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 would deal with the crisis, but in fact it has caused the asylum backlog to spiral out of control, forcing the British taxpayer to foot the bill for an extra £480 million in six-monthly accommodation costs. Now, Ministers are making all the same empty promises again. The Refugee Council says that the latest Government proposals will cost the taxpayer an extra £1 billion every six months, without anyone being returned anywhere. Does the Minister agree with Albert Einstein that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is a definition of madness?
Context
Ministers have made promises to deal with small boat crossings, but the issue has worsened since 2019.
Robert Jenrick
The problem with the hon. Gentleman and his colleagues is that they vote against every step that we bring forward. In an age of mass migration in which millions of people are on the move and want to come to our country, either as economic migrants or asylum shoppers, we have to take the most robust action we can.
Session: Asylum Applications Backlog
View All Questions -->
Does the Minister recognise the inadequacy of the legislation? Will he explain why the Government's utterly self-defeating approach has led directly to the British taxpayer footing an extra bill of £500 million?
Context
Criticism over the effectiveness and costs associated with the Nationality and Borders Act, leading to an increase in dangerous crossings.
Robert Jenrick
First, whatever the inadequacies of the current system, they would be far worse if the Opposition were in power—in fact, the backlog of cases was 450,000 when the last Labour Government handed over to us. They have opposed every tough measure that we have taken, including the Nationality and Borders Act.
Session: Asylum Backlog
View All Questions -->
Floating offshore wind has the potential to transform the economy and jobs market in my Aberavon constituency and across south Wales, but it will only happen if floating offshore wind substructures and other components are manufactured and assembled locally. There are two concerns: first, the Crown Estate is putting in place leasing criteria that seem to be about the highest bidder rather than maximising local value and content, and secondly, there are rumours flying around that the Government may be cancelling the floating offshore wind manufacturing investment scheme, which will be fundamental to facilitating the whole programme. Will the Minister confirm that he will urge Crown Estates to maximise local content in the criteria and that the Government are 100% committed to the FLOWMIS programme?
Context
Concerns about the Crown Estate's leasing criteria and the floating offshore wind manufacturing investment scheme.
James Cartlidge
The hon. Gentleman is a staunch campaigner for his constituency's ability to take advantage of this exciting new technology, and I pay tribute to him for that. As he knows, the Crown Estate works independently to manage the seabed and has an important role in the deployment of floating offshore wind. Its approach for the 4 GW leasing opportunity in the Celtic sea is focused on ensuring the development of this new technology market in the UK as quickly as possible. But, to be clear—cutting to his point about content—the Crown Estate has announced that for the first time it is reforming the tender process to consider supply chain plans, sending a clear signal to the market that UK content is important.
Session: Floating Offshore Wind
View All Questions -->
The Nationality and Borders Act establishes a new category of asylum seekers that the Government claim are not permitted to claim asylum in Britain and should therefore be removed. However, because the Government have failed to secure a returns agreement with France, and due to the unworkability of their Rwanda policy, 16,000 people in this category are stuck in limbo waiting an additional six months for a decision at significant cost to British taxpayers. Of those 16,000 waiting, only 21 have been returned since the Act's implementation. Does the Government accept that its own legislation is causing further delays, costs, and chaos while failing to remove failed asylum seekers without right of residence?
Context
The Nationality and Borders Act established a new category of asylum seekers who are not permitted to claim asylum in Britain and should be removed. However, due to the lack of returns agreement with France and the unworkability of the Rwanda policy, 16,000 people remain stuck in limbo.
Suella Braverman
I find it staggering that Labour Members seem to love complaining about the system but when we introduced laws to fix it, they opposed them every step of the way. We wanted to make it easier to deport foreign national offenders; Labour voted against it. We wanted to fix our asylum system; Labour voted against it. We secured a ground-breaking agreement with Rwanda; Labour would scrap it. Labour Members are very good at complaining but have no solution at all.
Session: Asylum Application Backlog
View All Questions -->
With 10,000 Afghans still stuck in bridging hotels at a daily cost of £1.4 million, can he explain why pathway 2 does not allow women judges or LGBT activists to apply for asylum from Afghanistan?
Context
The MP highlighted the cost to mental health of Afghans in bridging hotels and questioned pathway 2's ability to support women judges and LGBT activists.
Kevin Foster
We are proud of what we have done, including one of the biggest evacuations since war years. About 7,400 people moved into new homes since ARAP flights in June. We work with local authorities to provide more accommodation but need to be clear about working with communities.
Session: Afghan Citizens Asylum Policies
View All Questions -->
The deeply misjudged Nationality and Borders Bill and the Rwanda offloading plan will not only make cracking down on criminal people traffickers much more difficult, but make the cost to the British taxpayer criminally expensive. The British people deserve to know how their taxes are being spent, not least because the failed Australian model ended up costing £1 million per refugee. I ask the Home Secretary how many refugees she expects to send to Rwanda each year. The Prime Minister says it is tens of thousands; is that correct? How many can they house in the detention centres? What will the cost per single refugee be? What will the £120 million be spent on? Finally, given that her most senior civil servant refused to sign off on the plan, when will the Home Secretary publish a comprehensive cost forecast of her unworkable, extortionate and profoundly un-British Rwanda offloading agreement?
Context
The MP is concerned about the costs and effectiveness of the Rwanda offloading plan.
Tom Pursglove
The hon. Gentleman clearly did not pay much attention to the statement last week and the responses given. The British people deserve to know what his alternative is. I would politely suggest there is none.
Session: Illegal Immigration
View All Questions -->
Does the Secretary of State believe that describing the Scottish Conservatives' leader as 'a lightweight figure' helped to strengthen the Union?
Context
MP inquired about the impact of negative comments made by a government leader.
Alister Jack
I have made my position very clear: I do not think that Douglas Ross—[Interruption.] Well, I made it very clear in the Scottish media, which hon. Members may not have noticed, but that is fair enough. He is the leader of the Scottish Conservatives and was put there by the membership, and we are a constitutionally devolved organisation. He is doing a very good job and holds Nicola Sturgeon to account, and he has my full backing.
Session: Strength of the Union
View All Questions -->
What recent steps has the Department taken to help strengthen the Union?
Context
MP asked about steps taken to strengthen the Union.
Alister Jack
This Government are committed to upholding and strengthening the United Kingdom. My Department works closely with our partners across Government and with Scottish stakeholders. This Government are delivering record investment in Scotland and are ensuring that the many benefits of the Union are shared across the United Kingdom.
Session: Strength of the Union
View All Questions -->
The European Union secured a comprehensive exemption from the section 232 steel tariffs way back on 30 October 2021. Here we are, almost three months later, and talks with the UK Government are only just starting. To ensure that the talks proceed smoothly and rapidly, we need to understand the cause of the delay. Does the Secretary of State agree that the probable cause is the Government's shambolic handling of the Northern Ireland protocol? If she does not think that is the cause, perhaps she will enlighten the House about what she thinks the cause of the delay has been.
Context
The EU secured a comprehensive exemption from US section 232 steel tariffs on October 30, 2021. UK negotiations with the US are only now beginning.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
As I have outlined today, I am pleased that yesterday we were able to formally launch our negotiations with the US to find a solution to the section 232 tariffs, which have been unreasonably imposed on the UK for a number of years. The EU quantum of steel was of importance to the US, which wanted to start those negotiations because the impacts on both sides were great. We are very pleased that the UK is now able to progress on what will be a very important impact, and release some of the pressures on our excellent steel industry.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
The Minister made a welcome concession at the end of the debate on the Armed Forces Act 2021 to publish data about investigations and prosecutions. What will the Government do if the conviction rate for one or more of these serious crimes is concerningly low? Will they reconsider their approach? What impact does the Act have on meeting the target of 30% of Army recruits being female by 2030, particularly given that current trends mean it will not be met until 2063?
Context
Discussion on the Armed Forces Act and current trends in female recruitment.
Ben Wallace
The steps we have taken on judicial oversight, the Judge Henriques review of the service justice system and implementing the Lyons and Murphy reviews mean that we are confident that the changes we have made to the service justice system mean that cases will be better investigated, there will be a better quality of law and that justice is delivered. We are also continuing the work we are doing under Air Chief Marshal Wigston's review to make sure it is a better environment for women to serve in.
Session: Topical Questions
View All Questions -->
Last month the President of the United States signed off the National Defense Authorization Act. Does the Minister agree that it is time to end the UK's shameful position as the only country not to provide official recognition or compensation for nuclear veterans?
Context
The US signed off the National Defense Authorization Act ensuring atomic veterans receive recognition and compensation.
Leo Docherty
We will keep this under review but we regard it as a matter for the advisory military sub-committee on medallic recognition.
Session: Veterans Strategy
View All Questions -->
The Minister will be aware that, over the weekend, documents emerged that clearly demonstrate that the orders to commit genocide in Xinjiang are coming from the very top of the Chinese Communist party, including from Chen Quanguo and President Xi Jinping himself. For several months, Opposition Members have been calling for a full diplomatic and political boycott of the Beijing winter Olympics in response to those atrocities, but the Government continue to sit on their hands. In the light of this profoundly disturbing new information and amid deep and growing concern about the treatment of tennis player, Peng Shuai, does the Minister think that it is appropriate to send members of our royal family to the Beijing Olympics to rub shoulders with the very people who are orchestrating these horrific crimes against their own people?
Context
Recent documents show orders for genocide in Xinjiang coming from the top Chinese Communist party, leading to calls for a full diplomatic and political boycott.
Amanda Milling
As I said in previous answers, we have taken robust action in response to our concerns. The hon. Gentleman raises a number of issues including that of Peng Shuai, the tennis player. We have imposed sanctions, but in terms of attendance at the winter Olympics, no decisions have been made.
Session: 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics Diplomatic Relations
View All Questions -->
Like the shadow Foreign Secretary, my hon. Friend the Member for Wigan (Lisa Nandy), I welcome the Foreign Secretary and her team to their places. It has emerged that our ambassador in Kabul sent a series of diplomatic cables to the former Foreign Secretary, the right hon. Member for Esher and Walton (Dominic Raab), in July and August, warning him that Kabul would fall at pace and with little resistance. The former Foreign Secretary's response to those urgent telegrams was to go on holiday. Will the new Foreign Secretary assure the House that she is putting early-warning systems in place across her Department to ensure that such a catastrophic failure of decision making is never allowed to occur again? Will she commit to coming to the House within the shortest possible timescale to make a statement outlining our political, diplomatic, economic and security strategy for Afghanistan, as opposed to making policy on the hoof, as her predecessor did?
Context
An ambassador in Kabul sent warning cables to the previous Foreign Secretary about the imminent fall of Kabul, but no action was taken. The current government is under scrutiny for its handling of this situation.
James Cleverly
The hon. Gentleman takes the opportunity to talk about things that have been widely discussed in this House, rather than about the future. That is of course up to him. The former Foreign Secretary explained his actions and there is nothing much more that I can add. I assure the hon. Gentleman that my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and the ministerial team that she leads remain entirely focused on ensuring that where we can exert influence to bring about peace and stability in Afghanistan, we will continue to do so.
Session: Afghanistan
View All Questions -->
Will the Chancellor commit today to recognising the strategic importance of the steel industry by reducing electricity prices so that our steelmakers can compete on a level playing field?
Context
Steel jobs are crucial, with high electricity prices affecting competitiveness. The EU research fund for coal and steel will be returned to the UK.
Kemi Badenoch
The government is taking steps to support the decarbonisation of the steel industry, including a £250 million clean steel fund. We are addressing high electricity prices through these measures and supporting companies like Celsa with loans to secure jobs.
Session: UK Steel Government Infrastructure Projects
View All Questions -->
Why has the government's programme failed to recognise the impact on organisations in my district? Steel is central to good jobs, national security, and combating climate change. There can be no post-pandemic recovery without a strong steel industry. Will the Chancellor commit today to recognising the strategic importance of steel by reducing electricity prices so that our steelmakers can compete?
Context
Steel is crucial for jobs, national security and climate change. The sector faces significant challenges due to high electricity prices compared to Germany.
Kemi Badenoch
The government has spent over £500 million on supporting the steel sector and is taking steps to decarbonise it, including a £250 million clean steel fund. We are addressing high electricity prices through these measures.
Session: UK Steel Government Infrastructure Projects
View All Questions -->
The Labour party supports pro-democracy protesters in Myanmar who have shown extraordinary courage resisting military brutality. The UK Government's response lacks both strength and urgency. Why did the tweet after the ASEAN conference not address the situation? Will the Government commit to writing every UN nation asking them to join an arms embargo against Myanmar?
Context
The UK's response has been criticised for lacking strength and urgency. The ASEAN conference was attended by the Foreign Secretary, but no mention of Myanmar in follow-up communications.
Nigel Adams
We are clear that countries should not sell arms to the Myanmar military. We played a key role in securing and strengthening an EU arms embargo following the 2017 Rohingya crisis. The Foreign Secretary welcomed ASEAN's unique role in addressing the crisis, in line with the purpose and principles enshrined in the ASEAN charter.
Session: Myanmar Sanctions
View All Questions -->
Our steelworkers make the best steel that money can buy but, thanks to the indifference of successive Conservative Governments since 2010, they are constantly being made to compete with one hand tied behind their back. They are already dealing with the highest industrial energy prices in Europe and a Government procurement policy that fails the patriotism test, and now they face the possibility that, in June, steel safeguards that guard against import surges will be removed. Does the Minister agree that, if the Government were to remove those safeguards, it would add insult to injury and again undermine the ability of our steel industry to compete on a level playing field?
Context
Concern about UK steelworkers facing high energy prices, poor procurement policies, and potential removal of import safeguards.
Ranil Jayawardena
As the hon. Member knows, the British steel industry has benefited from investment of more than £500 million in recent years to help with the costs of energy, and we have announced a £250 million fund to support the decarbonisation of the industry. So this Government are dedicated to supporting the future of the steel industry and we will continue that work.
Session: UK Steel Producers Level Trading Field
View All Questions -->
Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
UK Steel Sector: Supply Chains
09 June 2021
Responding: Amanda Solloway
Main Concerns
["Since 2015, Labour MPs have secured numerous debates and urgent questions on steel but the industry still faces serious challenges due to UK Government's inadequate support. The British steel sector needs protection from import surges and high energy costs, impacting its competitiveness."]
Specific Asks
["The government must reject TRID's recommendation on steel safeguards, address industrial energy crisis, implement patriotic procurement policy, and coordinate forums like the Industrial Strategy Council for a modern manufacturing renaissance."]
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...
Backbench Business
15 June 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves to express concern over the state of NHS dentistry, noting that nearly 14 million people in England could not access dental care. Highlights issues such as lack of availability for children in S...
GP Contract
16 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Middle East: Economic Update
09 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Access to GPs 2025-06-23
23 June 2025
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
The ability to access GPs and maintain face-to-face appointments is a pressing issue that affects not just my constituency of North Down but constituencies across the UK. Across England, Scotland, Wal...
Dementia Care 2025-06-03
03 June 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the debate on dementia care, emphasising its urgency and impact. Cites statistics that one in 11 people over 65 has dementia, rising to one in six for those over 80. Highlights regional disparit...
Mental Health Bill [Lords] 2025-05-19
19 May 2025
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Hospitals 2025-04-23
23 April 2025
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Regrets the appalling state of repair of NHS hospitals across the country, noting a maintenance backlog of £13.8 billion in 2023-24 and the failure to deliver on promises for new hospital construction...
Hospice Funding 2025-04-08
08 April 2025
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
May I start by wishing you a very happy Easter, Madam Deputy Speaker, and by thanking the Clerks, the Doorkeepers and the House staff who have drawn the short straw and have to be here for the Adjourn...
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill (Money) 2025-01-22
22 January 2025
Ministerial Statement
Led by this MP
Recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry
15 May 2024
The petition addresses the long-standing issue of individuals who received infected blood products and have suffered as a result, along with their families, waiting too long for redress.
View Full Petition -->
Attendance
81.6%
80 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
32
32.7% of votes
No Votes
48
49.0% of votes
Abstentions
18
18.4% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
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
VOTED NO
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
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
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
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
VOTED NO
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
4
PMQs Asked
46
Ministerial Questions Asked
162
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
17
Statements / Bills
1
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+9% above average
This MP:
4
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+243% above average
This MP:
46
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3233% above average
This MP:
162
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
+80% above average
This MP:
17
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-59% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
+18% above average
This MP:
81.6
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Stephen Kinnock's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.