Steve Witherden
MP for Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr
Lab
4 Jul 2024 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Reform Members want to repeal our Employment Rights Act. Does the Prime Minister stand behind these protections for workers and agree that only a Labour vote will preserve them?
Context
The Employment Rights Act 2025 was passed by the Labour government, but Reform UK wants to repeal it.
Keir Starmer
I am proud of our Employment Rights Act and its protections for workers. The hon. Member for Clacton made a serious mistake about war support. His judgment is questionable.
Assessment
The question on employment rights was not answered, instead focusing criticism on the Reform UK member's stance on the Ukraine conflict.
Attack
Session: PMQs
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The thug in the White House has shown that he does not listen to grovelling or sycophancy, and he will continue to harm British interests no matter how compliant we are. Like all bullies, he will always find the weakest link. Will the Prime Minister close ranks with our European allies and commit to retaliatory tariffs?
Context
The US President's actions towards the UK have raised concerns about national interests.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
I have made our position clear. I have set out my principles, and I am not going to yield on those principles. As I said on Monday, of course we need to protect our national interest, and we will always protect our national interest, but simply hurtling into a trade war at the first opportunity would hurt working people and businesses across the country. That is why I am working hard to ensure that we do not get to that point, and I will continue to act in the national interest.
Session: PMQs
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Does the Minister agree that we must hear the same commitment from the current Secretary of State and see a clear timetable for implementation?
Context
The then Secretary of State for Justice made a commitment to close the 10-year sentencing gap for domestic homicides.
Alex Davies-Jones
I am happy to reiterate that commitment at the Dispatch Box today. We will introduce a new 25-year starting point for domestic murders applying to anyone who murders their current or former intimate partner, and we will bring forward the change as soon as parliamentary time allows.
Session: Tackling Violence against Women and Girls 2026-09-09
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What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to halve levels of violence against women and girls.
Context
The questioner is concerned about the rising levels of violence against women and girls.
Alex Davies-Jones
We are driving action across Government to deliver our landmark commitment to halve violence against women and girls in a decade. That includes the national roll-out of our life-changing domestic abuse protection orders across England and Wales, setting up pilots in schools to tackle harmful behaviours and delivering a flagship GP referral programme in England to better support victims.
Session: Tackling Violence against Women and Girls 2026-09-09
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The hon. Member for Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr (Steve Witherden) is right: those jobs are not there yet, and we risk losing the incredible talent in our energy industry as my constituents move abroad to find jobs. My constituency has historically had some of the highest numbers of patents in the UK, so we have the innovators we need for the energy transition. How will the Minister and the Government ensure that this gap is filled and that people can find jobs to power that transition, rather than leaving us because there are no jobs just now?
Context
The MP pointed out that the current clean energy jobs are not sufficient to replace losses in oil and gas, citing high numbers of patents historically in her constituency.
Chris McDonald
The hon. Lady raises an important point about managing the transition, and that is certainly what this Government are doing. I just want to challenge the point about the number of jobs being created by the number being lost. I know that the Opposition are always keen to quote the research from Robert Gordon University, but it does point to more jobs being created than lost. Actually, the recent report from the Confederation of British Industry now says that 1.1 million jobs in our economy are now dependent on net zero. But clearly, we do need to support the transition—it will not happen on its own. That is why, through our North sea transition funding and the opportunities through our clean energy technical colleges, we are providing that opportunity for people.
Session: Clean Energy Transition Supporting People in Work
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As we face the second fossil fuel shock in half a decade, it is right that the Government are scaling up clean, home-grown renewable energy through the energy independence Bill. However, clean energy jobs are not yet being created at the pace required to replace losses in oil and gas. How will the Government guarantee secure, well-paid jobs with strong trade union rights throughout the green transition?
Context
The MP noted concerns about job losses in oil and gas sectors due to the shift towards clean energy, citing a report by Alan Milburn on youth opportunities.
Chris McDonald
My hon. Friend is right to point out the vulnerability to oil price shocks—Wales has been identified as a particularly vulnerable area. Like me, he has paid close attention to the report by the former Member for Darlington, Alan Milburn, on the need to provide opportunities for young people; in fact, I believe he has invited Alan Milburn to a meeting of his all-party parliamentary group later this week. The clean energy industry is one of the industries that will provide good-quality jobs, and in the Department we are using grants and procurement to ensure that we have strong trade union engagement.
Session: Clean Energy Transition Supporting People in Work
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I am enormously proud that Labour is lifting hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty by scrapping the two-child limit, providing free school meals, creating apprenticeships, and devolving funds for child support. Will the Secretary of State update the House on what this policy means for the future of Wales?
Context
The UK Labour Government lifted the two-child limit, benefiting nearly 70,000 children in Wales and 2,270 in Montgomeryshire. This policy aims to lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty.
Jo Stevens
My hon. Friend is proud, as am I, of the steps that both our UK and Welsh Labour Governments have taken to support children and families with the cost of living. We have scrapped the two-child limit, provided 50 million free school meals since 2022, created 100,000 apprenticeships, and devolved £20 million to help more young people into work. Contrast Labour's record with Plaid's admission that it will cut child poverty budgets and plans to hike taxes on working families.
Session: Cost of Living
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While energy giants and Wall Street banks cash in on the war, ordinary people pay the price. What discussions has the Minister had with the Chancellor on the merits of introducing windfall taxes to directly fund a cost of living support package?
Context
In the first month of the US-led war with Iran, major oil and gas companies made over $30 million per hour in unearned profits. This has affected ordinary people's ability to afford basic necessities.
Yvette Cooper
The Chancellor will be making a statement later this afternoon, focusing on the cost of living crisis and supporting people and businesses. Another concern is Russia's benefit from the conflict, which underscores the need to open the strait as quickly as possible.
Session: Gulf Conflict
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Will the Minister provide an update on progress in delivering a ramp at Ruabon station to make it more accessible?
Context
Ruabon station progress in Access for All programme but northbound platform is not accessible to everyone. There is a need for ramp installation.
Keir Mather
My hon. Friend is right in his ambition for accessibility across our United Kingdom, including Wrexham. I will ensure that the Rail Minister provides him with an update in writing on when the ramp is likely to be delivered.
Session: Passenger Rail Services
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Proposals to restrict the right to protest based on 'cumulative disruption' are causing great concern. It is absurd that a march by an anti-racist group one week could be blocked because an anti-abortion march occurred the week before, and such power could extend across large parts of a city. This significant change demands proper scrutiny. Can my hon. Friend guarantee adequate parliamentary time for debate and vote on this issue?
Context
Concerns exist over proposed restrictions on protests based on 'cumulative disruption'. The questioner argues this would unfairly restrict subsequent protests.
Jake Richards
As my hon. Friend knows, this is a matter for the Home Secretary. If seeking parliamentary time for a debate, he should come to business questions on Thursday morning.
Session: Right to Protest
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What discussions has he had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on protecting the right to protest? Proposals to restrict the right to protest based on 'cumulative disruption' are causing great concern. It is absurd that a march by an anti-racist group one week could be blocked because an anti-abortion march occurred the week before, and this power could extend across large parts of a city.
Context
Discussions are ongoing regarding protecting the right to protest, with concerns about proposals restricting this right based on 'cumulative disruption'.
Jake Richards
My hon. Friend will no doubt be aware that the right to peaceful protest is vital, but it does not extend to unlawful behaviour. Peaceful protests must comply with the law; if they contravene it, police powers apply. As my hon. Friend knows, this matter falls under the Home Secretary's remit.
Session: Right to Protest
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Will my right hon. Friend consider equalising capital gains tax with income tax and introducing a 2% wealth tax on assets over £10 million?
Context
Poverty costs the UK around £75 billion each year, and political choices are contributing to it.
Rachel Reeves
In my first Budget, I changed a number of taxes to ensure that the wealthiest are paying their fair share. We increased capital gains tax, reduced the number of tax loopholes, introduced VAT and business rates on private schools, extended the energy profits levy and got rid of the exemptions for private equity. In the Budget last year, I did more than any Chancellor has ever done to take children out of poverty. In the course of this Parliament alone, more than half a million children will be lifted out of poverty.
Session: Cost of Living Families
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My constituency is home to Bersham colliery, the final coalmine to close in the whole of north Wales. Coal tip safety is paramount to Welsh communities, but there is a concern about companies extracting coal from our 2,590 tips for commercial gain. With the Senedd elections less than three months away, if the Welsh Government were to request that coal tip extraction be included in the Government's coal licence ban legislation, would the Minister consider amending the Coal Industry Act 1994 to extend the Mining Remediation Authority's remit to cover those powers and associated responsibilities in the future—
Context
The final coalmine in north Wales has closed, raising concerns about safety of coal tips. The Welsh Government is considering a request to include coal tip extraction in the Government's coal licence ban legislation.
Michael Shanks
My hon. Friend was at a Westminster Hall debate on this issue a few months ago, and what I said then remains the Government's position: we work closely with the Welsh Government on this issue. We are content with the Welsh Government's position that this area is already regulated and sufficient, but we obviously keep these things under review.
Session: Topical Questions
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Members from both sides of the House are concerned about the Government’s amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill, which would limit protest rights. Given its significant implications for the right to protest, is it not essential that Parliament has ample time to scrutinise, debate, and vote on this proposal?
Context
The question concerns a proposed amendment that restricts protest rights based on 'cumulative disruption', raising concerns about democratic freedoms.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Jake Richards)
The legislation is proceeding as it should. There must be a balance between the right to protest and community safety from cumulative disruption, which I believe this amendment achieves.
Session: Protest-related Offences Remand
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Why has my right hon Friend joined me in welcoming the 55 jobs that have been created on the roundabout in the last month alone, and would she consider joining me for a milkshake in one of the numerous places in Buttington where we could now obtain one together?
Context
The MP highlighted the economic importance of Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr's livestock market near Welshpool. He mentioned specific job creation at Buttington Cross.
The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
I am very pleased to hear about the new jobs created at Buttington Cross, and I should be delighted to join my hon. Friend for a milkshake—strawberry, please. Our landmark May deal with the European Union included a commitment to a comprehensive sanitary and phytosanitary agreement, which we are now actively negotiating, and which will reduce paperwork, delay and costs for Welsh farmers exporting their animals and produce to the EU. This Government are backing our farmers and food manufacturers.
Session: Job Creation Wales
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In Wales, expressive arts is a mandatory part of the curriculum, helping pupils develop creative skills while also improving cognitive development and attainment in maths and English. Given that England has seen a 42% decline in expressive arts GCSE entries since 2010, what plans does the Minister have to restore the status of arts and creative education and support a broader, more balanced curriculum?
Context
Expressive arts GCSE entries have declined by 42% since 2010. Wales mandates expressive arts in its curriculum.
Lisa Nandy (Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport)
My hon. Friend is right to lament the decline in the number of pupils across England taking arts subjects, and this Government are determined to turn that around. That is why the Education Secretary and I have worked closely together. My hon. Friend will have seen the announcement she made about a broader, richer curriculum for all pupils, alongside the work I am doing to rebuild a broader, richer set of opportunities outside of the classroom.
Session: Access to Arts and Culture
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Survivors of domestic abuse and violence, along with their children, must be able to access affordable housing. The local housing allowance now covers only 1% of private rents in Wales and 2.4% in England. Does the Minister agree that unfreezing LHA and linking it once more to actual local rents is vital to reducing the risk of homelessness for survivors and ensuring that they have the safety of a stable home when fleeing abuse?
Context
Survivors of domestic abuse and their children need access to affordable housing, but the local housing allowance covers only a small percentage of private rents in Wales and England.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
I thank my hon. Friend for his passionate plea, and I will take up his suggestions in meetings with relevant authorities. Tier 1 local authorities have a legal requirement to assess and address the need for support within safe accommodation for all domestic abuse victims. The Government have increased funding to £160 million this year—an uplift of £30 million from previous years—to provide further support in safe accommodation for survivors. We will ensure that sufficient suitable support is available locally.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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With the Budget approaching, what discussions has the Secretary of State had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer about scrapping the two-child limit—a policy widely recognised as one of the biggest drivers of child poverty in Britain today?
Context
One in three children in Steve Witherden's constituency is growing up in poverty, with the two-child limit policy recognised as a major driver of child poverty.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Pat McFadden)
We have already taken action to reduce child poverty, by extending free school meals to all families on universal credit, and we will of course explore other avenues. We want to reduce child poverty—in stark contrast to the record of the Conservatives.
Session: Topical Questions
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New polling by the Trades Union Congress shows that the public overwhelmingly support packages of taxes on wealth, on banks and on gambling companies. It also found that 74% of 2024 Labour voters who are now leaning towards Reform back those measures. Will the Chancellor commit to protecting working people from higher taxes on their income by ensuring that wealth pays its fair share, rather than imposing cuts and regressive measures?
Context
The Trades Union Congress has released new polling showing public support for taxes on wealth, banks, and gambling companies. The poll also found that 74% of Labour voters now leaning towards Reform support these measures.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Rachel Reeves)
In the Budget last year, we got rid of the non-dom tax status, we put up capital gains tax, we started treating carried interest as income—not as capital gains—we introduced new taxes on private jets, we put VAT and business rates on private school fees and, of course, we changed the rules around agricultural property relief so that people who have farms worth more than £3 million will pay inheritance tax, although at half the rate that everybody else does. We took a number of measures last year to ensure that the wealthy pay their fair share.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Vyrnwy Frankton project, which aims to connect onshore wind to the grid, would cut across my constituency and affect local communities and cherished countryside, posing a threat to businesses and tourism. Will the Minister assure me that the impact of the project and its associated lifetime costs will be minimised by undergrounding the cables along the route, except where geology makes that impossible?
Context
The Vyrnwy Frankton project aims to connect onshore wind to the grid, potentially affecting local communities and cherished countryside.
Michael Shanks
That is not the position of the Government, because report after report and the evidence points to the fact that undergrounding cables is significantly more expensive than putting them above ground. Individual applications will clearly look at the individual circumstances and make a decision on that. We have said as a Government that communities that host network infrastructure should benefit through community benefits and direct money off bills, and that is what we will deliver.
Session: Topical Questions
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In my constituency—one of the most rural parts of the UK—whole areas are without mobile phone coverage. People are forced to cope with unreliable phone lines and, most worryingly, are sometimes unable to call 999. Can the Minister assure me that after the withdrawal of the public switched telephone network, no one will be left without access to a phone simply because there is no mobile signal once their landline is switched off?
Context
Some rural areas in Steve Witherden's constituency lack mobile phone coverage, leaving people unable to make 999 calls. Concerns have been raised about the impact of PSTN withdrawal on these communities.
The Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms (Chris Bryant)
I have been very keen to ensure that the withdrawal of the PSTN—which is being done because it is necessary, as the copper system is not working any more and is more fallible—does not leave anybody unable to contact 999 or get the services that they need. I am very happy to arrange for my hon. Friend a meeting with BDUK to go through precisely how we can ensure that we have proper investment in every constituency in the land so that people have the mobile signal they need to live in the modern era.
Session: Rural Mobile Coverage
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The Government have announced £37 million for the first round of schools to expand nursery provision, supporting the roll-out of the extended 30 hours childcare offer in England, but nearly two thirds of funded schools are part of multi-academy trusts. Concerns remain that this model encourages privatisation, reduces accessibility and undermines staff pay and conditions. What assurances can the Minister offer that expanding entitlements without investing in public infrastructure will not exacerbate these issues?
Context
The Public Childcare Now campaign highlights concerns that the model for expanding nursery provision through multi-academy trusts may encourage privatisation, reduce accessibility, and undermine staff pay and conditions.
The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)
I am delighted that so many academies are taking part in our school nursery programme. Academies drive innovation across our system and are an important part of the system we have. Of course, it was the last Labour Government who first brought about the academies programme to drive up performance in our schools and to make sure that all our children get a brilliant education. Sadly, we know that after 14 years of the Tories, far too many children, including in our most disadvantaged communities, do not get the education they deserve. That is why our schools White Paper later this year will make it a reality once and for all that they do.
Session: School-based Nurseries
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Given that nearly half of families in poverty have a disabled member and that without PIP an additional 700,000 disabled households could be pushed into poverty, I am concerned that the rumoured cuts will not help people into work but instead drive them further into destitution. What assurances can the Minister give me that the voices of disabled people have been heard and reflected on in the upcoming Green Paper?
Context
The MP is concerned that proposed cuts will push more disabled households into poverty.
Stephen Timms
I give my hon. Friend a firm assurance that not only have we been listening, but we shall continue to listen once the proposals have been published.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given the escalating need for affordable housing across the UK, what conversations has the Department had with the Welsh Government to urgently address this crisis and collaborate on quickly increasing the availability of social homes?
Context
The most recent data shows that nearly 11,500 people are stuck in temporary accommodation in Wales due to a shortage of social housing and unaffordable private rents.
The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
I understand well the pressures in Wales that my hon. Friend describes so eloquently. We know that increasing the supply of social homes is a cornerstone of the Welsh Government’s plans to prevent housing problems and homelessness. We speak regularly with our colleagues in the Welsh Government, and we will continue to work closely with them on our shared objective of getting more social homes built by councils and housing associations.
Session: Social Housing
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I welcome the news that the Secretary of State has signed a memorandum of understanding on four Welsh growth deals with Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Rebecca Evans. Will the Minister outline how this UK-Welsh Government partnership will deliver the well-paid jobs and economic growth needed in areas like Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr?
Context
Welsh growth deals aim to stimulate economic growth in Wales, but there is concern about the specific impact on areas like Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Dame Nia Griffith)
The memorandum of understanding signed recently between the UK and Welsh Governments further demonstrates our commitment to working together to deliver economic growth throughout Wales. The UK Government have invested £790 million in Wales’s growth deals, including £110 million in the Mid Wales growth deal which aims to leverage up to £400 million of public and private sector investment in the region and create up to 1,400 additional jobs.
Session: Job Creation
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The rising death tolls from the wildfires in Los Angeles and the damage to our communities recently caused by Storms Bert and Darragh serve as clear reminders of escalating weather extremes and the urgent need to tackle the climate emergency. Will the Minister explain how the Government are actively driving efforts to cut emissions and champion clean energy, both in the UK and across the globe?
Context
Wildfires in Los Angeles resulting in rising death tolls, as well as the damage caused by Storms Bert and Darragh to UK communities, highlight escalating weather extremes. These incidents serve as reminders of the urgent need to address the climate emergency.
The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)
Our thoughts are with all those hit by the dreadful crises mentioned. At COP29, the UK showed leadership in setting an ambitious nationally determined contribution to cut emissions by 81% by 2035. We are championing clean energy at home and abroad, including through the launch of GB Energy and the global clean power alliance.
Session: Climate Change UK Leadership
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Palestinian women detained in Israeli prisons face sexual assault, beatings and threats of rape and death, according to United Nations reports. Given our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, what discussions is the Minister having with Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office colleagues about the implications of the gender-based violence faced by Palestinians?
Context
UN reports document sexual assault, beatings, and threats of rape and death against Palestinian women detained in Israeli prisons.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Jess Phillips)
I thank my hon. Friend for his question. My FCDO colleagues sit on the violence against women and girls sub-group for the mission, and I have every faith that they take the issues that he talks about incredibly seriously.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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What steps are the Government taking to prevent a genocide in Gaza? I welcome the leading role that the Government are taking in providing vital humanitarian aid for Gaza, but does the Minister agree that the ongoing Israeli restrictions on the flow of essential aid are completely unacceptable and should be lifted immediately?
Context
The question follows testimony from a surgeon describing Israeli drones targeting injured children after bombings, which correlates with the New York Times report of October citing 44 medical professionals witnessing such incidents.
Anneliese Dodds
Yes, we are seeing a disturbing impact from those restrictions; we have seen it in the famine assessment and in the levels of malnutrition and ill health now prevalent in Gaza. Winter is now upon us, making the situation even worse.
Session: Middle East Humanitarian Situation
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The Secretary of State has said that economic growth is her No. 1 priority. Can you say how the Budget's confirmation of the investment zones will help contribute to that aim?
Context
The MP is seeking details on how the government's confirmation of investment zones in the Budget contributes to economic growth.
Nia Griffith
The Budget includes a total of £320 million and a commitment for the investment zones in Cardiff and Newport and in Wrexham and Flintshire. This is a crucial part of our work with the Welsh Government to provide a rocket boost for sectoral strengths such as the creative industries, the life sciences and advanced manufacturing.
Session: Job Creation
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I am concerned about creating new jobs in Wales. What steps are you taking with Cabinet colleagues to help create these jobs?
Context
The MP is concerned about job creation and economic growth in Wales, seeking concrete steps the government is taking to address this issue.
Nia Griffith
Our mission is to kick-start economic growth, delivering good jobs and growth in Wales. Last month, our international investment summit secured over £63 billion in private investment into the UK. Since July, we have secured over £1 billion of investment into north Wales, creating and sustaining 400 well-paid jobs in manufacturing.
Session: Job Creation
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What assessment has been made of the impact of the current rate of statutory sick pay on employee retention?
Context
A study suggests that improving support for disabled people, those with long-term health conditions, and unpaid carers to get into work could save the Treasury £38 billion.
Justin Madders
We are looking to increase the scope of sick pay to include people below the lower earnings limit, and to introduce payments from day one. We have no plans to increase the rate of statutory sick pay but will look at how we can reform it for the better.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State outline how he will restore confidence and support British farmers? British farmers have been badly let down by crippling trade deals, skyrocketing energy prices and devastating floods. Will the Secretary of State outline how he will restore confidence and support British farmers?
Context
British farmers have been let down by various issues such as trade deals, energy prices, and floods.
Steve Reed
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. There are all sorts of ways in which farmers have felt very let down over the past 14 years, and that has contributed to the tragic situation today in which we have the lowest levels of confidence ever recorded in the farming sector.
Session: Funding for Farming
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I thank my right hon. Friend for beginning to deliver funds to support business confidence and provide a safety net for workers. Will she explain how that will support workers who are dealing with great uncertainty?
Context
The MP acknowledges the announcement of funds but seeks clarity on how these will support workers facing uncertainty.
Jo Stevens
The two funds that have been announced are specifically for people in businesses and in the supply chain, because we know that they have already been affected by the uncertainty of the situation at Port Talbot. They will help people to retrain and reskill into new employment, and will help businesses to diversify and go into new markets if they are a primary customer of Tata Steel.
Session: Steel Industry
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Science and Discovery Centres
14 January 2026
Responding: Kanishka Narayan
Main Concerns
["Steve Witherden expressed deep personal connections to the Centre for Alternative Technology in his constituency. He highlighted its growth from a founding member's involvement in agricultural economics to a centre that now welcomes learners of all ages, businesses, and local authorities, emphasizing its role in combating climate and biodiversity crises. He noted that SDCs reach over 5.2 million schoolchildren annually and provide inclusive community engagement, essential STEM skills development, and cutting-edge scientific research. Witherden also mentioned the UK's serious STEM skills shortage costing £1.5 billion a year and the centres' role in building public understanding of new technologies."]
Specific Asks
['Witherden called for looking at funding SDCs moving forward, ensuring public funding commitment to climate challenges, and suggesting a timetable for that support as part of his asks to the Minister.']
Immigration and Asylum Bill
13 July 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker has selected the reasoned amendment in the name of the Leader of the Opposition, but no specific opening argument is provided in this excerpt.
Transport (Scotland) Bill - Schedule 4 - Minor and Consequential amendments
10 June 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The amendment seeks to make minor and consequential changes to the bill, ensuring consistency in the provisions. It includes technical adjustments to align with existing regulations and improve clarit...
Cuba: Humanitarian Situation
08 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Online Safety Bill - Lords amendment 263 and related amendments
14 April 2026
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves an amendment to Lords amendment 263, aiming to address issues in the current bill regarding online safety measures. She highlights concerns around user safety and the need for a proactive approa...
Heating Oil Support
16 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Lord Mandelson: Response to Humble Address Motion
11 March 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
26 February 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
It is a real privilege to open this debate as we come together to mark St David's day and discuss Wales’s past, present and future. Ruth Jones highlights the importance of cross-party working in the W...
Arctic Security 2026-01-19
19 January 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Business Rates Retail, Hospitality and Leisure 2026-01-19
19 January 2026
Urgent Question
Contributed to this debate
Will the Minister confirm that the planned changes to business rates for the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors will not result in crippling rises? Given the significant negative impact these cha...
Covid-19 Financial Support 2026-01-15
15 January 2026
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Perteghella highlights a national scandal where millions of taxpayers were excluded from financial support during the pandemic, despite promises by the Government. She cites 3.8 million UK taxpayers b...
Attendance
57.1%
56 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
27
27.6% of votes
No Votes
29
29.6% of votes
Abstentions
42
42.9% 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
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
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
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
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
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 AYE
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED AYE
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
2
PMQs Asked
31
Ministerial Questions Asked
23
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
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
-45% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+131% above average
This MP:
31
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+373% above average
This MP:
23
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-17% below average
This MP:
57.1
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 Steve Witherden's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.