Stuart McDonald
MP for Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch East
SNP
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Has the Prime Minister seen the utterly damning new UNICEF report showing that in the decade to 2021, child income poverty rose way faster in the UK than in any of the other 39 countries analysed? Scrapping the benefits cap, scrapping the two-child limit and rolling out the Scottish child payment UK-wide could reverse a decade of utter failure.
Context
A UNICEF report shows a rise in child income poverty in the UK compared to other countries.
Rishi Sunak
I point out to the hon. Gentleman that since 2010 the number of people living in poverty has actually reduced by 1.7 million, including hundreds of thousands of children, but the best way to make sure that children do not grow up in poverty—which no one wants to see—is to make sure that their parents are in work, and then to make sure that they can keep as much of their hard-earned money as possible.
Assessment
Specific policies
Focusing On Employment
Session: PMQs
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I join the Prime Minister in expressing my sympathies to all those affected by the recent storms. Two million people just cannot be sustained from 20-odd aid lorries. Utter catastrophe is being unleashed in Gaza. Does the Prime Minister not now see that only a humanitarian ceasefire can bring about the scale of emergency aid that is needed? Of course Israel has a right to defend itself in line with international and humanitarian laws, but we must also speak out when those laws are breached. Surely he agrees that depriving 2 million civilians—a million of them children—of food, water, medicines and fuel is not in accordance with international law. Will he press Israel to restore the supply of these essentials for the sake of innocent civilians and the future of the entire region?
Context
Recent storms have affected two million people in Gaza, leading to a humanitarian crisis.
Rishi Sunak
It is important that we do everything we can to get humanitarian aid to those who need it in Gaza, which is why, on Monday, we announced a doubling of our international aid to the region and why the Development Minister is actively engaged with our partners on the ground to ensure that that aid gets to those people as quickly as possible.
Assessment
Pressing Israel for humanitarian ceasefire not addressed
Under Review
Actively Engaging
Session: PMQs
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My constituent Lisa and her civil service colleagues have worked tirelessly and with distinction during some of the most challenging times, but she is fed up with Ministers patting them on the back while imposing derisory 2% and, now, 4.5% pay rises, despite years of pay restraint and, now, double-digit inflation. She asks simply: “Why should I keep working for a UK government that treats its workers with such contempt?” Will the Prime Minister stop with the myths and excuses, and start negotiating a fair deal with the unions?
Context
A constituent, Lisa, is frustrated by the government's imposition of derisory 2% and now 4.5% pay rises despite years of pay restraint and double-digit inflation.
Rishi Sunak
I pay tribute to all our hard-working public sector workers for the job they do. We have a well-established independent pay review body process for making sure that we can have pay settlements that are fair and affordable. I am very pleased that we have reached agreement with many unions on those pay settlements and I hope that those members vote in support of them.
Assessment
negotiations for fair deal with the unions
Reference To Well-Established Process
Session: PMQs
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The Government's two- child cap and childcare proof of payment rules mean that my hard-working constituent, Ms Cowan, who is a single parent on universal credit supporting four kids, faces £1,000 of nursery arrears. She is therefore at risk of losing the kids' nursery places, as a result of which she would have to give up work and would therefore be at risk of sanction and forced further into debt and poverty. Can the Prime Minister help my constituent out of this trap and fix these rules that are pushing people out of work and into poverty?
Context
A constituent faces £1,000 nursery arrears due to the two-child cap and childcare proof of payment rules.
Boris Johnson
I would be happy to study the case, but the whole point of universal credit, which this Government introduced, is that it is helping hundreds of thousands of people into work. That is its success.
Assessment
Specific help for Ms Cowan was not given
Promoting The Benefits Of Universal Credit
Session: PMQs
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When we praise our social care workers for their immense response to the pandemic, that includes more than 100,000 care workers from the EU. New research from the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants shows that many of them do not know anything about the Prime Minister's EU settlement scheme, and many more do not know that they must apply by the end of June. We could see thousands of essential care workers and possibly hundreds of thousands of valued EU nationals losing their rights to live and work here overnight on 1 July. Will the Prime Minister please cancel or postpone the application deadline or, better still, extend the rights of EU nationals in the UK automatically, just as he previously promised to do?
Context
Many EU care workers are unaware of the Prime Minister's EU settlement scheme and its deadline.
Boris Johnson (Prime Minister)
I thank the hon. Member for what he has done just now to draw attention to the scheme, but I must say that I respectfully disagree with him about the ignorance in which our wonderful EU nationals have been, because 4 million of them have successfully applied and been given residence, thanks to the scheme we have instituted. It is a great success, and we pay tribute to the wonderful EU nationals in our country who do a fantastic job for this country.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address whether he would cancel or postpone the deadline or extend rights for EU nationals.
Disagreement
Session: PMQs
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Mr. McDonald asks the Prime Minister to encourage the Home Office to urgently reform policies so that everyone can receive necessary support during this crisis.
Context
Some of these groups are unable to access public funds and support needed.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
This country will look after all the most vulnerable in society and the groups mentioned will certainly receive the Home Office funding that they need and deserve.
Session: PMQs
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Why is mandatory fortification of flour with folic acid happening so slowly, at such a low level and applied to too few products?
Context
Mandatory fortification could save thousands from spina bifida but progress is slow.
Andrea Leadsom
I assure the hon. Member that we remain firmly committed; policy is being delivered across the UK as part of a wider review, and legislation will be brought forward later this year.
Session: Topical Questions
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What risk does the Minister believe AI poses to this year's election, and what steps is he taking to alleviate those risks?
Context
The MP is concerned about the immediate threat disinformation and deepfakes pose to democracy, especially in this year's election.
Saqib Bhatti
The UK will not tolerate malicious cyber-activity targeting democratic institutions. The Deputy Prime Minister has already acted where necessary. Government teams are working collaboratively to respond to threats, including digitally manipulated content. The Online Safety Act requires companies to take proactive action against illegal state-sponsored content online via the foreign interference offence.
Session: AI Impact on Democracy
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What assessment has her Department made of the potential impact of AI on democracy?
Context
The MP raises concerns about the potential risks and benefits of artificial intelligence for democracy.
Saqib Bhatti
The Government are clear that artificial intelligence is the defining technology of our time, with potential to transform humanity positively. We also recognise the challenges that AI can pose. The defending democracy taskforce and DSIT are engaging with social media platforms, civil society groups, academia and international partners to tackle risks posed by AI to democracy.
Session: AI Impact on Democracy
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A total of 100,000 children will be kept clear of poverty this year thanks to the Scottish Government's policies—primarily the Scottish child payment. Surely the Secretary of State must now look to rolling out some of our policies in other parts of the UK and, at the very least, ditch the two-child limit, which deliberately forces children into poverty.
Context
100,000 children are being kept clear of poverty thanks to the Scottish Government's policies. The two-child limit policy is criticised for forcing children into poverty.
Mel Stride
The limit to which the hon. Gentleman refers is there for a very good reason, ensuring people face the same basic decisions as those not on benefits. This is an important matter of fairness across those receiving benefits and paying tax. The number of children in poverty has fallen by 400,000 since 2010.
Session: Child Poverty
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Higher salary requirements and visa charges for skilled workers plus impossibly restrictive family visa rules will put the UK out of reach for many early career researchers and scientists. What is the Secretary of State doing to stand up against these crazy Home Office policies, which will make her own Department's goals for recruiting researchers and technicians virtually impossible to achieve?
Context
The question addresses concerns about higher salary requirements, visa charges, and restrictive family visa rules affecting early career researchers and scientists.
Michelle Donelan
The UK has fantastic pull power, with world-leading facilities, four out of the top 10 universities and a range of routes for people to come here, including the very successful global talent visa.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will Ministers join me in thanking all those involved in the campaign, including LEAP sports and the TIE campaign in Scotland, and offer their wholehearted support for making football a safe and welcoming sport for LGBT people?
Context
An event marked the start of Football v. Homophobia month, aimed at making football a safe and welcoming sport for LGBT people.
Kemi Badenoch
Of course we join the hon. Gentleman in that. I pay tribute to the work of the Minister for Equalities, who has been very supportive of the campaign—as are all of us in the ministerial team.
Session: Topical Questions
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In light of recent commentary about the employment tribunal's judgment concerning Professor Miller and Bristol University, if she will clarify that while academics have the right to express views, they cannot behave in a way that amounts to harassment of Jewish students, as disguising antisemitism under discourse on Israel would not be lawful.
Context
The employment tribunal's judgment regarding Professor Miller at Bristol University sparked commentary on the issue of antisemitism, prompting a clarification from the government.
Kemi Badenoch
The Government will consider the ruling carefully and continue to do all in our power to protect Jewish people throughout our country. The ruling does not change the fact that while academics have the right to express views, they cannot behave in a way that amounts to harassment of Jewish students.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Rwanda Bill cannot guarantee compliance with vital convention rights. Does that not illustrate inadequacy of UK human rights legislation?
Context
Concerns about the Rwanda Bill's compliance with convention rights.
Alex Chalk
No, I reject that characterisation. The European convention on human rights provides a right to an effective remedy under article 13. Our legislation fulfils this requirement and safeguards rights while delivering interests of the British people.
Session: Human Rights Legislation
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Citizens across the EU now benefit from increased transparency in how big tech companies target them with adverts and propaganda thanks to the Digital Services Act. Of course, we have missed out because of Brexit. What will the Government do to provide increased transparency and tackle bad-faith actors using big tech to target our citizens?
Context
The EU's Digital Services Act provides increased transparency in how big tech companies target citizens with advertisements.
John Whittingdale (Minister of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport)
The online advertising taskforce has come forward with a number of measures, and we are looking both to legislate in this area in due course and to introduce non-statutory measures. We are committed to protecting vulnerable people from inappropriate advertising, and to tackling fraudulent advertising.
Session: Topical Questions
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Does the Minister confirm that the Government will not undermine artists and musicians by exempting AI data mining from copyright restrictions? The Select Committee has called for the abandonment of proposed exemptions, as described by UK Music's CEO as a 'green light to music laundering'.
Context
The question stems from concerns raised by the Select Committee and the CEO of UK Music about AI's impact on artists' rights.
John Whittingdale
Creative rights owners and platforms are in discussions through the IPO, but it has made clear that text and data mining will constitute copyright infringement unless permitted under licence or on exception.
Session: Artificial Intelligence Creative Sector
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On heavy goods vehicle road transport, where is the low-carbon fuel strategy? Such fuels can cut emissions by 80%. The strategy will be crucial for shaping investment plans of logistics companies. Why is it nearly a year late and when are we going to see it?
Context
The MP is concerned about the delay in publishing a low-carbon fuel strategy for heavy goods vehicles.
Jesse Norman
The Government announced four winning projects of the £200 million zero-emission HGV and infrastructure competition, which will roll out 370 zero-emission HGVs and around 57 refuelling and electric charging sites. This is part of a broader strategy about developing different fuel alternatives.
Session: Decarbonising Road Transport
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What assessment has been made of the adequacy of progress on decarbonising road transport?
Context
The MP is concerned about the progress on decarbonising road transport.
Jesse Norman
The UK has one of the most ambitious decarbonisation programmes of any country in the G7. In March this year, the Government published a globally unprecedented level of detail on their plans to meet emission reduction commitments, including those from road transport.
Session: Decarbonising Road Transport
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Nineteen US states have banned employers from asking prospective employees about their salary history. This has had a massive impact on tackling unequal pay for women and black workers. Having talked about piloting a similar measure, why have the Government appeared to stall?
Context
The MP refers to US states implementing policies that ban employers from asking about salary histories, which has helped reduce pay inequalities. The MP inquires why similar measures are not being pursued.
Kemi Badenoch
We are not stalling. Our pilot will support employers to take steps towards transparency in their own organisations, to see the impact for themselves. We know that this is not straightforward, which is why we will ensure that employers looking to implement greater transparency in their recruitment processes are able to access best practice and learn from each other.
Session: Pay Inequalities
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What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on tackling pay inequalities in the labour market. The MP wants to know how the government plans to address these issues.
Context
The MP is concerned about existing discussions on tackling pay disparities and seeks to understand recent Cabinet conversations.
Kemi Badenoch
Owing to my joint roles—I am also Secretary of State for Business and Trade—I have a unique understanding of unjust pay disparities, and I am proud of the steps that this Government have taken to tackle them. We will publish new guidance in April to help employers measure, report on and address unfair ethnicity pay differences.
Session: Pay Inequalities
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The Attorney General will know that concern has been expressed on both sides of the House that the Bill will make it even harder to successfully prosecute traffickers. In short, that is because victims will not come forward if it simply means they are going to be detained and then removed to Rwanda. What is the Attorney General going to do about that?
Context
Concerns have been expressed that victims may not come forward due to fear of detention and removal, potentially making it harder to prosecute traffickers.
Victoria Prentis
I am sorry, but once again, I cannot go into the content of any legal advice that might have been given. I would, however, refer the hon. Gentleman to the explanatory notes that accompany the Illegal Migration Bill, which set out the circumstances in which ECAT is operating at the moment.
Session: Illegal Migration Bill Trafficking Convention
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If he wants to be seen as a Justice Secretary who will stand up for the rule of law and access to justice, he should put greatest possible distance between him and predecessor's pet project. Will he disown the Bill of Rights altogether? Instead of undermining respect for international rights, why not incorporate more domestic rights into law?
Context
The Justice Secretary is asked about putting distance between himself and the previous pet project by disowning the Bill of Rights altogether, stopping it from being split up into other legislation.
Alex Chalk
Human rights matter. I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave a few moments ago.
Session: Bill of Rights Bill
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Why is the Justice Secretary defending the Home Secretary instead of upholding the rule of law, given the bill's perceived trashing of international rights conventions?
Context
Questions arise over the reputation and stance of the new Justice Secretary, who co-wrote a defense of the controversial Illegal Migration Bill.
Alex Chalk
The answerer asserts that upholding the rule of law includes holding illegal migrants accountable. Arriving illegally is against the law, and consequences must follow to maintain respect for the rule of law.
Session: Illegal Migration Bill Access to Justice
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If the Minister's Portillo-style tour of the railways takes him north of the border, will he reflect on the eye-watering track access charges paid by ScotRail and the eye-watering disruption caused to ScotRail services by problems with that track? Is it not just common sense that train tracks as well as train services should be fully devolved to Scotland?
Context
ScotRail pays significant track access charges, causing disruption to services. The questioner advocates for full devolution of rail infrastructure.
Mark Harper
The hon. Gentleman I hope knows that the way track access charges are paid for is in two parts. If he looks at the total charges paid for track access by ScotRail, he will see that they are done on the same basis as in the rest of the United Kingdom. It is a very fair deal for ScotRail, and I do not think that there is anything for the hon. Gentleman to complain about.
Session: Topical Questions
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There was a lot to take in there. Recent positive noises around the Acorn carbon capture project near Peterhead are obviously welcome, albeit with the caveat that we have heard a lot of this before. Can the Minister confirm what funds track 2 projects will get and when Acorn funding will be confirmed, or at least when such announcements will be made? Does he agree that track 2 projects must proceed much faster than track 1, both because of the climate emergency and so that we can seize the opportunity to be world leaders in that technology?
Context
The Acorn carbon capture project has received positive support, but there are concerns about the timing and certainty of funding for track 2 projects.
Andrew Bowie
The hon. Member is absolutely right that there was a lot to take in, because the UK Government are doing so much to support Scotland's energy transition. On Acorn, he does not recognise that this Government have already invested £40 million of funding in the project—most notably, £31.3 million under the industrial decarbonisation challenge. I have the breakdown of the funding, if Mr Speaker will allow me: £31.3 million from the industrial decarbonisation challenge for onshore and offshore front-end engineering design studies; £9.3 million of innovation funding for CCS innovation and advancing CCS technology and hydro supply programmes; and £250,000 for the development of Storegga's Dreamcatcher direct air capture plant.
Session: Energy Transition Projects in Scotland
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Articles 12 and 13 of the trafficking convention require states to support a trafficking victim's physical, psychological and social recovery, but clauses 22 onwards of her Government's Bill expressly deny such support. The questioner seeks confirmation on whether the Attorney General believes this conflicts with international obligations.
Context
The questioner points out that the Illegal Migration Bill denies trafficking victims access to support required under international trafficking conventions, questioning if this aligns with legal obligations.
Victoria Prentis
As I have said, all lawyers have a duty of confidentiality to their clients and I am simply not permitted to tell the hon. Gentleman, or indeed anybody else, what legal advice has been shared between our office and that of the Government. The use of the Human Rights Act 1998 section 19(1)(b) statement does not mean that the Bill breaches the ECHR.
Session: Illegal Immigration Bill ECHR Compatibility
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The Casey report reminds us that we must be alive to racism not only in the police, but in the whole justice system. Will Ministers engage with and act on a significant report by Manchester University and a Crown court judge, which found that racial bias plays a significant role in the justice system, including discrimination by judges? The report made a series of constructive suggestions to address this issue.
Context
The Casey report highlights racism not only in the police but throughout the justice system, including discrimination by judges.
Dominic Raab
I will certainly take a look at the Manchester academic report the hon. Gentleman refers to. I know, through my work with His Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service and the senior judiciary, that they are very mindful of the issue he raises. It is important. Equally, we need to ensure that we are rigorous and colourblind to all crimes, and ensure that the rule of law applies across all communities. That is the best way to make sure we strengthen and reinforce public confidence in the justice system.
Session: Topical Questions
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Both the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister have repeatedly failed to rule out withdrawing from the convention in the longer term. What we need from the Justice Secretary is a full-throated defence of the convention and a commitment to the UK's long-term membership. Will he now deliver that unequivocal defence?
Context
McDonald criticized the lack of clarity and commitment regarding future adherence to the ECHR.
Dominic Raab
I am surprised to hear the SNP talk about extreme members of other parties. At the moment, the UK's single biggest human rights concern is the trade in misery we see with the small boats and illegal immigration across the country.
Session: European Convention on Human Rights
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Can my right hon. Friend publish that review as soon as possible?
Context
The Government have been reviewing the presumption for some time, and it can put children at risk when applied.
Mike Freer
Government want to get this sensitive issue right and will be publishing the response to that review very soon, as soon as we can do so.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why was the prospect of a section 35 order not raised at any time before the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill was overwhelmingly passed by the Scottish Parliament? What alternatives did the Attorney General look at? When will she set out the changes to the Bill that she wants to see before the Government would revoke the section 35 order?
Context
The prospect of a section 35 order was not raised before the passage of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill by the Scottish Parliament. The Attorney General's alternatives and changes to the bill are in question.
Victoria Prentis
That would be absolutely the wrong conclusion to draw. The Attorney General's convention is clear: the UK Government respect the Scottish Parliament's ability to legislate within its competence on devolved areas. The Government are committed to working with the devolved Administrations and strengthening the Union of the UK.
Session: Legislative Competence of the Scottish Parliament
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What discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential implications of an order under section 35 of the Scotland Act 1998 for the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament?
Context
Discussions on the potential implications of an order under section 35 for the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament.
Victoria Prentis
As I said earlier, by convention, information on whether the Law Officers have been asked to provide advice and the content of such advice are not disclosed outside Government. That convention enables candid legal advice to be given.
Session: Legislative Competence of the Scottish Parliament
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Is the Minister willing to discuss transferring powers for ethnic pay reporting from Scotland? The questioner highlighted that Scottish policies lack enforcement and suggested learning lessons from results.
Context
The Scottish Government encourages employers to report on ethnicity pay gaps but lacks the power to enforce this policy.
Kemi Badenoch
We have no plans to devolve equal opportunities policy. Work on ethnicity pay reporting will not be made mandatory as it covers more than two separate categories. I am happy to provide detailed information about our ongoing work and guidance for companies willing to carry out ethnicity pay reporting.
Session: Workplace Inequality Gender and Race
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What steps are being taken to tackle gender and racial inequality in the workplace? The hon. Member mentioned two legislative measures for sexual harassment protections under the Equality Act 2010, and a commitment to publish guidance on ethnicity pay reporting as part of an inclusive Britain strategy.
Context
The questioner is concerned about gender and racial inequalities persisting despite some legislative measures.
Kemi Badenoch
As part of our strategy to tackle violence against women and girls, we have committed to strengthen protections against sexual harassment in the workplace. This includes two legislative measures under the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Bill. We also committed to publishing guidance on ethnicity pay reporting for employers to support identifying unfair pay gaps.
Session: Workplace Inequality Gender and Race
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The brilliant EU citizens who contribute to Scotland's communities, public services and economy include more than 100,000 people who currently have the precarious pre-settled status. The High Court in England recently ruled that the requirement of a further application to preserve their rights here was unlawful and contrary to the withdrawal treaty. Will the Secretary of State agree that the judgment is welcome and should be respected—providing, as it does, security for those EU citizens and protecting their ongoing contributions to Scotland and the UK?
Context
The High Court in England ruled that the requirement for further applications to preserve rights of EU citizens is unlawful and contrary to the withdrawal treaty.
Alister Jack
We welcome all EU citizens with settled status and think it is absolutely right that those systems are in place. If the hon. Gentleman has any further questions regarding the matter, I suggest he raise the matter at Home Office questions. I think the system that we have is working and is fair.
Session: Impact of Leaving the EU
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Whether he has made a recent assessment of the impact of the UK leaving the European Union on Scotland. I am concerned about the negative impacts and benefits that Brexit might have on Scotland's economy, society, and political landscape.
Context
The MP questions the impact of the UK leaving the European Union specifically for Scotland.
Alister Jack
There are many benefits of leaving the EU for Scotland. They include: the ability to agree new trade deals and strategic partnerships, controlling our borders, ensuring that regulation fits the needs of the United Kingdom, control of our fishing waters and the ability to improve the competitiveness of our economy while maintaining high standards.
Session: Impact of Leaving the EU
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The previous answer misunderstands the importance of convention case law in protecting victims. Neither the Secretary of State nor the Prime Minister ruled out complete withdrawal from the European Convention, which would be disastrous for victims. Is this due to political weakness or will he now rule out such a move?
Dominic Raab
Our Bill of Rights retains membership in the European Convention, but withdrawal is not off the table forever and a day for the future.
Session: Support for Rape Victims
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I thank my predecessor for her work in defending human rights. The former Victims' Commissioner warns that the Bill of Rights would harm victims by affecting their ability to push the police to improve. Will he now listen to these concerns and abandon his plans?
Context
The Victims' Commissioner, Dame Vera Baird, warned that the Bill of Rights would harm women and undermine efforts to drive better police handling of cases.
Dominic Raab
That critique is total nonsense; the Bill of Rights will help victims by enabling deportation of foreign national offenders. I look forward to bringing the victims' bill and having support from all Members.
Session: Support for Rape Victims
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Ukrainian MPs who have met colleagues here have repeatedly asked for improvements to UK visit visa processes. Visitors from Ukraine must either go to Poland twice—first for biometrics and then to collect the visa—or wait there for several weeks. Will the Minister look at what can be done to make it simpler for those brave politicians and other Ukrainian citizens visiting their families here to access the necessary visa?
Context
Ukrainian MPs have raised concerns about the complexity and inefficiency of the UK visit visa processes, which require multiple trips to Poland or weeks of waiting.
Robert Jenrick
I am in contact with a number of Ukrainian politicians who have raised exactly that point with me and, indeed, the issue of those serving in the Ukrainian armed forces who might wish to visit relatives here while on a short period of leave. I am giving that further consideration.
Session: Ukrainian Nationals Visas and Support
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What steps she is taking to help improve (a) access to visas and (b) support for Ukrainian nationals. Applications for the UK's three bespoke Ukraine schemes are online, have no fee and no salary or language requirements. Nearly 150,000 visas have been issued to Ukrainians since the start of Vladimir Putin's illegal invasion.
Context
The question arises from the need to improve access to visas and support for Ukrainian citizens affected by Vladimir Putin's invasion.
Robert Jenrick
Applications for the UK's three bespoke Ukraine schemes are online, have no fee and no salary or language requirements. Nearly 150,000 visas have been issued to Ukrainians since the start of Vladimir Putin's illegal invasion. The UK Visas and Immigration service aims to decide those applications within five days, unless there are exceptional circumstances. Generally, we are now meeting that standard.
Session: Ukrainian Nationals Visas and Support
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The only thing undermining human rights protections in this country is the Justice Secretary's proposed Bill of Rights. The reality is that a nursery class could have designed a more sensible piece of legislation than his Bill of Rights. Everybody from human rights campaigners to big city lawyers are saying so—indeed, even the disastrous Truss Administration understood that fact. Given the universal criticism, what exactly is it that makes him think he can just carry on regardless, without even a further consultation?
Context
The MP criticizes the Secretary of State's proposed Bill of Rights as undermining human rights protections and lacking consultation, asking what makes him think he can carry on regardless.
Dominic Raab
I am afraid I do not accept that characterisation. I think that on Second Reading, the hon. Gentleman will see the level of support. There has already been consultation on not just the policy proposals but specific clauses. We have looked at this at length. It is a manifesto commitment dating back to 2010. It remains one today, and we are going to deliver it for the British people.
Session: Strengthening Human Rights Discussions with Cabinet Colleagues
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It is carers, victims of domestic violence, disabled people, trafficking victims and people with mental health issues who are among those who have vindicated crucial rights and tackled Government discrimination using the Human Rights Act. Their victories could not have happened under his Bill. As we face up to the cost of living crisis, should we not be strengthening our citizens' rights rather than undermining them? Why does he want to put people in the UK into a second-tier system of rights protection?
Context
The MP raises concerns that victims, disabled people, and others who have vindicated crucial rights using the Human Rights Act could not do so under his proposed bill. He asks if they should be strengthening citizens' rights rather than undermining them.
Dominic Raab
A series of cases have been put about that either would not be affected by the Bill of Rights or were not the product, in terms of the remedy, of the Human Rights Act. I do not accept the hon. Gentleman's assertion; I want to work with hon. Members from all parts of the House. There is a great opportunity to strengthen the UK tradition of human rights—I think we should be proud of that as one United Kingdom—but to deal also with the elastic interpretation of rights and the shifting goalposts that have undermined the credibility of human rights and put huge pressure and strains on our ability to protect the public.
Session: Strengthening Human Rights Discussions with Cabinet Colleagues
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Of course, we all welcome closer co-operation with the French, but the Home Secretary is absolutely right to temper her expectations given that previous deals were signed in 2010, 2014, '15, '16, '18, '19, '20 and, indeed, '21. What discussions has she had with the French about safe legal routes for those with clear links to the United Kingdom, linked if necessary with an appropriate returns agreement?
Context
Previous deals were signed in 2010, 2014, '15, '16, '18, '19, '20 and, indeed, '21.
Suella Braverman
I am not going to repeat myself, but I think the deal is a good step forward and a great platform from which to build deeper co-operation. I say gently to the hon. Gentleman that his question would have much more credibility if Scotland stepped up further and took a better share of those who come here seeking refuge and asylum.
Session: Illegal Cross-channel Movements Discussions with French Counterpart
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On Friday, a commission established by Refugees for Justice concluded that safety issues at asylum accommodation in Glasgow could have been avoided. Will the Home Secretary or the Minister for Immigration meet Baroness Kennedy and Refugees for Justice to discuss this report?
Context
A commission led by Helena Kennedy concluded that the 2020 stabbings and shooting at asylum accommodation in Glasgow's Park Inn could have been avoided. The commission recommended important asylum reforms.
Robert Jenrick
I would be happy to meet the hon. Gentleman and the Baroness to discuss her report. We take safety at immigration removal centres seriously, as shown by the hard work of officers in difficult circumstances following recent disturbances.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister be U-turning on that commitment as well, or will he fight the good fight in favour of proper uprating?
Context
The MP is concerned about the Government's U-turn on properly protecting benefits and pensions against rising inflation.
David Davies
This Government will always be committed to supporting the least well off, which is why we have come forward with schemes such as the £650 payment for those on benefits, the £300 for pensioner households and the £150 for those who are disabled. If the hon. Gentleman is really worried about the cost of living, perhaps it is time he persuaded his Government to start supporting new nuclear and the new oil and gas fields that we so desperately need for the energy that people want.
Session: Cost of Living Crisis Devolved Budget, Households and Businesses
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The most needy areas suffer from Tory cost of living crisis. The Levelling Up Secretary cheered mini-Budget favouring south-east. How much 'fat' will be found in levelling-up budgets?
Context
Concerns about the Levelling Up Secretary's role in advocating for a mini-Budget that prioritised south-east over others, and questions about fat trimming from levelling-up budgets.
Dehenna Davison
Delighted the hon. Gentleman mentioned mini-Budget, highlighting investment zones committed to deliver local opportunities and jobs in Scotland.
Session: Levelling-up Agenda Impact of Cost of Living Crisis
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What recent assessment has been made of the impact of the rising cost of living on the levelling-up agenda? The places most in need are suffering from this Tory cost of living crisis, yet it was the Levelling Up Secretary who advocated for a mini-Budget that prioritised the south-east over others.
Context
Concerns about the impact of inflation and economic challenges on areas targeted for improvement under the 'levelling up' policy.
Dehenna Davison
The rising cost of living affects people across the UK, particularly in less affluent areas with high inflation and low wage growth. Providing immediate relief through energy support packages, while also focusing on long-term economic resilience and growth to improve local opportunities.
Session: Levelling-up Agenda Impact of Cost of Living Crisis
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Syrian Refugees in Jordan and Lebanon
22 June 2021
Responding: James Cleverly
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the situation of Syrian refugees in Jordan and Lebanon, particularly focusing on a constituent's family where an adult daughter, son-in-law, and grandson remain in Lebanon. The daughter had previously been vulnerable to mental ill health due to her husband's detention and ill treatment in Syria, and they currently reside in a garage working for accommodation. A child of the family lost his life after being refused admission to hospital and left untreated for seven hours due to his status as a Syrian refugee. Statistics from UNHCR show that over 5.6 million refugees have fled Syria since 2011, with around 89% of Syrian refugee families in Lebanon now living below the extreme poverty line."]
Specific Asks
["I ask for a Home Office colleague to meet me to discuss the case of my constituent's family and their reunion application. Additionally, I seek information on the FCDO's response to the deteriorating situation for Syrian refugees in Jordan and Lebanon, including targets for the new resettlement scheme and any plans to broaden family reunion rules."]
Infected Blood Compensation Scheme
21 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Conflict in Sudan: El Fasher
16 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
16 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The debate urges the UK Government to deliver prompt compensation to women born in the 1950s who had their state pension age raised. The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman report highlights th...
Sudan: Government Response
22 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Women’s State Pension Age
25 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
The Investigatory Powers (Amendment) Bill - Clause 14 and related amendments
25 March 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
MP Dan Jarvis moved the debate on Clause 14 of the Investigatory Powers (Amendment) Act 2024, initiating a discussion on powers to obtain communications data. He also proposed several new clauses and ...
Investigatory Powers (Amendment etc) Bill [Lords]
19 February 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Investigatory Powers Act 2016 needs updates to ensure the UK's investigatory powers framework remains fit for purpose in light of evolving global threats and technological advancements. The Bill a...
Refugee Family Reunion Routes: Sudan
29 November 2023
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
I am grateful to have the opportunity to draw the House’s attention to the catastrophic situation in Sudan and to highlight the circumstances of people in danger there, some of whom have family member...
Illegal Immigration
15 November 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Contest: UK Strategy for Countering Terrorism 2023
19 July 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
6
PMQs Asked
109
Ministerial Questions Asked
119
House of Commons Debates Involved
1
Westminster Hall Debates Led
1
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
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
+64% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+715% above average
This MP:
109
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-60% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2341% above average
This MP:
119
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-89% below average
This MP:
1
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
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 Stuart McDonald's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.