Theresa Villiers
MP for Chipping Barnet
Con
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Despite local improvements in the NHS, I have constituents who wait too long for care. Can I urge the Prime Minister to redouble efforts to grow the NHS workforce and reduce waiting times?
Context
Local NHS services are improving, but some constituents still face long waiting times.
Rishi Sunak
We are reducing the overall NHS waiting list by around 200,000 since September last year despite industrial action. Our productivity plan will free up clinicians' time with patients, and we aim to train more doctors and nurses for future requirements.
Assessment
Specific commitments on workforce growth
Vague Promises
Session: PMQs
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Given the reports of sexual violence committed by Hamas and the risk to hostages, will the Prime Minister raise this issue in international forums so that the international community demands strong humanitarian access for hostages in Gaza?
Context
Reports of sexual violence committed by Hamas on October 7th raised concerns about the safety of hostages.
Rishi Sunak
The reports of sexual violence by Hamas are deeply shocking. We have raised concerns with the United Nations a fortnight ago, engaging with the Israeli Government to consider further support. The UK continues to work towards ensuring safe return for all hostages, including British hostages and those linked to the UK.
Assessment
Specifically addressing how humanitarian access will be demanded in international forums
Raising Concerns With Un
Engaging With Israeli Government
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that it is wrong for Labour to introduce new ULEZ charges on driving in London suburbs, raising costs on working families?
Context
The question addresses concerns about the cost of living in light of Labour's proposed Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charges.
Rishi Sunak
My right hon. Friend is absolutely right to raise this important issue. While we are getting on providing significant support to families with the cost of living, the Labour Mayor of London, to whom transport is devolved, is busily putting it up, imposing the ULEZ charge against the overwhelming views of residents and businesses.
Assessment
Providing specific commitments or actions to address increased costs on working families in outer London
Working With Partners
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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Excessive housing targets are placing greater and greater pressure on councils to approve development that damages our environment. When the Prime Minister came to Finchley over the summer, he said that he wanted to abolish those targets. Will he use the Report stage of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill to bring forward Government amendments to do that?
Context
The MP notes excessive housing targets that pressure councils to approve environmentally damaging development. She recalls the Prime Minister's promise during a summer visit to abolish these targets.
Rishi Sunak
The Government are committed to making home ownership a reality for a new generation, and we must build homes in the right places, where people want to live and work, but, as my right hon. Friend knows and as I have said, I want those decisions to be taken locally, with greater say for local communities rather than distant bureaucrats. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is happy to meet her to discuss how best to make that a reality.
Assessment
Specific use of Report stage and amendments to abolish housing targets was not addressed
Session: PMQs
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I warmly welcome the Prime Minister and ask about measures to assist businesses facing extreme energy price increases. A pub restaurant in my constituency faces a 600% hike to £320k due to high energy prices. Will her plan for tackling the energy crisis also support hospitality businesses crucial to local communities?
Context
A local pub restaurant in Barnet has reported an impending energy bill increase of 600% to £320,000, potentially threatening their business viability.
Elizabeth Truss
I will ensure that our energy plan supports both individual households and businesses in tackling the immediate price crisis and securing long-term supply stability.
Session: PMQs
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Just over a fortnight ago, two horrific fatal stabbings took place on a quiet street in East Barnet. With the Metropolitan police now in special measures for the first time in its history, will the Prime Minister urge the Mayor of London to start living up to his responsibilities as police and crime commissioner? The Mayor needs to get a grip on crime, give Barnet its fair share of new officers and abandon his plan to sell Barnet police station.
Context
Two fatal stabbings occurred recently on a quiet street in East Barnet, raising concerns about rising crime rates. The Metropolitan Police Service is currently under special measures.
Boris Johnson
I notice that crime has spiked since the previous Mayor of London, and it is the Labour party that voted against stop and search and against increased funding for the police. As for the London Mayor, he would do better to get out of California and take control of crime in his city.
Assessment
The Prime Minister did not address the question about urging the Mayor of London but instead criticized the previous mayor and Labour party.
Crime Has Spiked Since The Previous Mayor
He Would Do Better To Get Out Of California
Session: PMQs
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During a recent visit to Barnet Hospital, I was told that A&E there routinely sees twice the number of people for which it was designed. Thanks to hard work and big funding increases, the NHS is seeing more patients and delivering more tests, treatments, and operations than ever before. What are the Government doing to urgently assist the NHS tackle spiralling demand for healthcare and a tough winter ahead?
Context
A&E at Barnet Hospital is seeing twice as many patients as it was designed for. NHS funding has increased, but the demand for healthcare continues to rise.
Boris Johnson
I thank my right hon. Friend for what she does to represent her hospital, and I thank the NHS staff for their amazing work. We are supporting them by recruiting 50,000 more nurses and putting another £4.5 billion into the NHS over the rest of this financial year. The best thing we can do to protect our NHS is for everybody to come forward and get their booster vaccination.
Assessment
The answer did not provide specific actions beyond funding increases and vaccinations, despite the question asking about urgent support.
The Best Thing We Can Do Is
Session: PMQs
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Can the Prime Minister promise that the forthcoming planning Bill will not restrict the right of residents to have their say over what is built in their neighbourhood?
Context
Concerns over the forthcoming planning Bill affecting residents' ability to have a say on local development.
Boris Johnson
Yes, indeed. What we want to do is ensure that young people get home ownership opportunities and help them across the country by our levelling-up agenda.
Assessment
Did not address concerns about limiting resident participation rights in planning decisions.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister promise to resist in all circumstances the sell-out of our fishing communities?
Context
Concerns about the sell-out of fishing communities and control over UK waters from January next year.
The Prime Minister (Boris Johnson)
I will indeed, and I hope that my right hon. Friend's words were listened to very carefully by members of the Scottish National party, because they would hand back control of our fishing to Brussels.
Session: PMQs
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As I saw during a recent visit to Chase Farm Hospital, better digital systems can dramatically improve NHS productivity, and artificial intelligence can contribute to that as well. Will the Government use their science and research budget to increase NHS output, improve outcomes for patients and get waiting lists down?
Context
Based on her recent visit to Chase Farm Hospital, Theresa Villiers highlights the potential of better digital systems and AI in enhancing NHS productivity. She asks about leveraging the science and research budget for these purposes.
Andrew Griffith
That is exactly what we are doing. On Monday, the Prime Minister announced £15.5 million to roll out artificial intelligence radiotherapy that locates cancer cells two and a half times more quickly, helping to reduce those anxious days for patients and their families who are awaiting a diagnosis. That is affordable only thanks to the fact that our plan for the economy is working. Labour has no plan, and would end up having to cut the research budget.
Session: Productivity
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What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to ensure that Government-funded research is used to help increase levels of productivity.
Context
The question arises from a broader concern about increasing levels of productivity in the UK. Theresa Villiers asks how government-funded research can be utilized to achieve this goal.
Andrew Griffith
The Government are providing record levels of taxpayer funding for research, and my right hon. Friend is right to highlight the opportunity to improve productivity. A priority for research councils is to focus on not just discovery but innovation, so that British taxpayers feel the benefits of faster economic growth, rising living standards and better health outcomes.
Session: Productivity
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The switch to electric cars and vans is crucial for improving air quality and reaching net zero. Will the Government update us on action being taken to deliver charging points in the right places, in consultation with residents?
Context
The switch to electric cars and vans is critical for air quality and reaching net zero goals.
Justin Tomlinson
The Government have invested in the Faraday battery challenge, a £541 million programme to support the research, development and scale-up of world-leading battery technology in the UK. Since 2022, all new homes and homes undergoing major renovation in England have been required to have a charge point installed. That is why we welcome the year-on-year 49% increase in charge points.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given the significant role drones are playing in the conflict in Ukraine, what specific actions is the government taking to ensure that our armed forces have the necessary equipment and strategies to defend against drone attacks?
Context
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine highlights the importance of drones in future conflicts, prompting questions about how to prepare UK armed forces for similar threats.
James Cartlidge
We are learning from Ukraine and have joint leadership of both the drone capability coalition with Latvia and the maritime coalition with Norway. We are improving governance to cohere that learning across defence and into our armed forces, and we will hold an industry day next month to strengthen relationships with drone companies.
Session: Armed Forces Security Threats
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I am concerned about the steps being taken to ensure that our armed forces have adequate resources to deal with evolving security threats, such as those mentioned in recent announcements. What specific measures is the government implementing?
Context
The question arises from concerns about whether current defence spending and equipment are sufficient to address emerging security challenges.
James Cartlidge
We have strengthened the UK's defence in recent years, with a commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP. We are investing in warfighting capability and reforming procurement processes to embrace innovation and strengthen our industrial base.
Session: Armed Forces Security Threats
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A number of my constituents in Chipping Barnet tell me that they continue to have problems with delays in getting court judgments implemented by bailiffs. Will the Secretary of State do everything he can to tackle delays in the courts and bailiff system, especially for possession proceedings?
Context
Some constituents report delays in getting court judgments implemented by bailiffs.
Alex Chalk (Minister of State for Justice)
We are running recruitment campaigns and have reduced administrative burdens to free up resources for bailiffs to focus on enforcement activity. Nearly 90% of county courts list possession hearings within four to eight weeks after a claim is received.
Session: Topical Questions
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Trees must play a crucial role if we are to meet our commitments on nature recovery and net zero, and they are a tremendous source of happiness, well-being and landscape beauty. To meet the ambitious tree-planting goals that the Government have set, can they streamline the permissions process? Some of the red tape seems disproportionate and in need of regulatory reform.
Context
The MP inquired about streamlining the process of obtaining permissions for tree planting.
Rebecca Pow
I thank my right hon. Friend for the work she has done in her constituency to encourage tree planting, but she is right that the process needs to be fast and simple. We have taken that on board, and the Forestry Commission has recently introduced the woodland creation fast track, aiming to help to decide eligible woodland creation offers within just 12 weeks.
Session: Tree Planting
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Does that not show that Labour's claims to be better for the NHS are completely false?
Context
In a 12-month period, 40,000 people had to go from Wales to England for elective care.
Fay Jones
My right hon. Friend is entirely right: the NHS is not safe in Labour's hands, and we have living proof of that in Wales. The Secretary of State for Health offered support to alleviate pressures on waiting times, but the Welsh Health Secretary turned it down.
Session: NHS Waiting Times
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What recent discussions he has had with the Welsh Government on NHS waiting times. So many people in Wales are waiting longer for NHS care than people in England, and in a 12-month period, 40,000 people had to go from Wales to England for elective care.
Context
Recent concerns over NHS waiting times and patient transfers from Wales to England.
Fay Jones
Healthcare is devolved to the Welsh Government, who have received record levels of funding to deliver on all their devolved responsibilities, receiving 20% more funding per person than in England. The NHS is not safe in Labour's hands, and we have living proof of that in Wales.
Session: NHS Waiting Times
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Does the Minister agree that reducing inflation is key to tackling cost-of-living pressures?
Context
Inflation needs to be brought down to create a climate for interest rate reductions and tax cuts.
Laura Trott
As ever, my right hon. Friend is absolutely right.
Session: Cost of Living
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The Prime Minister has identified getting aid in and getting hostages out as two key priorities for the UK Government. Israel is facilitating aid getting into Gaza by air, land and sea, with 468 trucks entering the area in a single day. We are seeing real progress on aid; when will we see progress on hostages, too?
Context
The MP highlights the facilitation of aid into Gaza and asks about progress on hostage releases.
Andrew Mitchell
My right hon. Friend is absolutely right. We need to see breathing space so that we can get the hostages out and more aid in; in spite of what she says, the aid that is getting in at the moment is not sufficient.
Session: Gaza Humanitarian Situation
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Will the Minister give us an update on this month's delivery of the first phase of the free childcare entitlement, and may I urge him to ensure that we deliver phase 2 on time in September?
Context
There is a free childcare entitlement initiative that is being rolled out in phases. The first phase has been delivered, and the second phase is scheduled for September.
David Johnston
The first phase of the roll-out went very well indeed. Some 200,000 children are now benefiting from the first stage of the roll-out, which Labour Members doubted could happen—we have shown again that we have a plan while they have absolutely none.
Session: Language for Life Programme
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I also recently visited the Forge Integrated Primary School in Belfast. I saw their much-needed and developed plans to replace their portacabins with buildings, answering their need for extra capacity. The school is disappointed that the plans have been shelved, along with projects at nine other integrated schools. Education is devolved, but money had been earmarked for such projects by the UK Government under the 2015 “Fresh Start” agreement. Does the Secretary of State understand why teachers, pupils and parents are so disappointed that those plans have been shelved? Does he have any plans to restore them?
Context
The school is disappointed that the Fresh Start agreement funds have been repurposed and their plans to replace portacabins with buildings have been shelved.
Steven Baker
I hear the hon. Lady. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and I understand people's concerns and we too have visited schools; I certainly have and I think my right hon. Friend has too.
Session: Integrated Education Northern Ireland
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Someone living in inner-city Bradford is likely to live 20 years less than those in affluent areas. This reflects 14 years of underinvestment in NHS and community services. Will the Secretary of State admit that the Government does not care about people from places like Bradford?
Context
Inner city residents of the Bradford district have a life expectancy up to 20 years less than those living in more affluent parts, due to underinvestment and cuts.
Victoria Atkins
Levelling up is about addressing education, housing, and other environmental factors impacting health. The Government will draw together a cross-Government strategy for major conditions to help people live healthier lives.
Session: Health Inequalities
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When will the announcements be operationalised, and what is the monitoring process so that we can all judge whether they are not just words but action?
Context
Concern about the operational implementation and monitoring of measures to tackle retail crime.
James Cleverly
The changes will be put through as amendments to the Criminal Justice Bill. We have conversations with police forces to ensure visible policing on high streets and a response to reasonable lines of inquiry.
Session: Violence against Shop Workers
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What are the Government doing to use apprenticeships to help young people engage with the labour market, to tackle levels of economic inactivity and to give them the opportunities they need to get the careers that they want?
Context
The MP is concerned about using apprenticeships to tackle levels of economic inactivity among young people.
Mel Stride
My right hon. Friend raises economic inactivity, which is lower in our country than in the United States, France and Italy. It is below the average of the OECD, the G7 and the European Union.
Session: Helping People into Work
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In light of the UN mission's findings, will the Government redouble efforts to get hostages home?
Context
UN mission team concluded there are reasonable grounds for conflict-related sexual violence during October attacks.
Andrew Mitchell
Agree with my right hon. Friend. We are doing everything possible to increase aid flow and secure hostages' return.
Session: Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
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Last year the National Audit Office reported that 700,000 children were being taught in schools needing major rebuilding works. Can the Minister at least inform us of the latest estimate of the total school repairs bill?
Context
The National Audit Office reported that 700,000 children were being taught in schools needing major rebuilding works.
Damian Hinds
Keeping our school estates in the right condition for optimally educating children is of the foremost importance. Since 2015 we have allocated £15 billion to keeping schools safe and operational.
Session: Maintained Schools Funding
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Scotland's farming and fish sector produces some of the finest produce in the world. Will the Secretary of State do all he can to promote the sale of Scottish smoked salmon abroad as a premium product known the world over?
Context
The question builds on the initial inquiry, focusing specifically on the export of Scottish smoked salmon as a premium product. It highlights the potential for this product to be recognised globally.
Alister Jack
The most recent figures show that Scotland's food and drink sector accounted for 29% of all UK food and drink exports. To help the sector flourish, the Government have secured trade agreements with 71 non-EU countries and the EU, worth £808 billion.
Session: Food Exports
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For almost two years this Tory Government have failed to appoint an independent adviser on Islamophobia. The former adviser has criticised the Government for their failure to engage, and revealed that he could not even get them to provide terms of reference for his role. Does the Minister agree that this Government lack the political will to tackle this pernicious hatred, or even to call it out?
Context
The question highlights the government's failure to appoint an independent adviser on Islamophobia for almost two years, and criticism from the former adviser about their engagement.
Felicity Buchan
I strongly disagree. We plan to appoint a new independent adviser on anti-Muslim hatred, and we will update the House shortly.
Session: Islamophobia
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It is deeply disturbing when children and young people are involved in violent crime. Experience from around the world shows that a whole-of-Government approach is crucial in tackling the problem, as has been acknowledged in successive Government strategies. Will the Minister give us an update on how the Government are ensuring that that is delivered?
Context
The MP asked for an update on the government's efforts in ensuring a whole-of-Government approach towards dealing with the issue of child exploitation.
Laura Farris
If I have understood my right hon. Friend's question correctly, I can tell her that we are doing a huge amount on child exploitation. Only last week, we implemented the No. 1 recommendation of the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse, for mandatory reporting, and we have more to come. This remains a Government priority.
Session: Violent Crime Young People
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The MP highlights that while 20 mph zones can be effective in quiet, narrow residential streets with local consent, they are unjustified when applied to wide main roads. She raises a specific case in Barnet Council proposing a large 20 mph zone for Whetstone without adequate consultation.
Context
Concerns about the imposition of blanket 20 mph speed limits without proper local consultation and support.
Mark Harper
The right hon. Friend agrees with Labour's approach in Wales and London, which has imposed blanket 20 mph zones without public support, damaging the effectiveness of such measures in areas where they are needed. The government will issue stronger guidance to restrict these policies and may consider further action against councils failing to comply.
Session: Speed Limits
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What discussions has he had with local authorities on the implementation of 20 mph speed limits on roads? The MP notes that these limits can be effective in quiet, narrow residential side streets but criticises their imposition on wide main roads without adequate consultation or justification. She cites an example in Barnet Council where a large 20 mph zone is proposed for Whetstone without sufficient local support.
Context
The question arises from concerns about local authorities implementing 20 mph speed limits without proper consideration of road conditions and public support.
Mark Harper
The right hon. Friend agrees that blanket 20 mph zones without local backing, such as those imposed by Labour across Wales and London, are detrimental to drivers and may undermine specific protections for vulnerable road users near schools. The government will issue stronger guidance on restricting these zones and is prepared to take further action against non-compliant councils.
Session: Speed Limits
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Can the Treasury find funds for an increased pay offer for junior doctors? I agree that we must consider affordability and the public finances, but if ever a group deserved a raise, it is junior doctors. The dispute needs resolution.
Context
The question arises from concerns about junior doctors not receiving a fair pay rise, despite the government's efforts to safeguard public finances.
Jeremy Hunt
As my right hon. Friend knows, as Health Secretary I campaigned for extra money for the NHS to make sure that we could pay NHS staff fairly, but I do believe that junior doctors have had a very fair offer—one that is higher than was recommended by the independent pay review body and is about double the rate of this year's predicted inflation. I know that the Health Secretary is willing to talk about anything else that could help make their working conditions better.
Session: Topical Questions
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I ask if he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities, highlighting recent data releases indicating higher greenfield foreign direct investment since 2010 compared to France, Germany, Italy, and China. Additionally, unemployment has fallen to a quarterly average of 3.9%, meaning it has halved under Conservative Governments with the creation of over 800 jobs every day since 2010.
Context
The question arises from the need for an update on the minister's activities and departmental updates.
Jeremy Hunt
I would like to update the House on a couple of data releases published since our last oral questions. Total greenfield foreign direct investment since 2010 has not just been higher than that of France, Germany and Italy, but in the past two years has overtaken that of China to be the second highest in the world. Yesterday's labour force survey said that unemployment fell to a quarterly average of 3.9%, meaning that unemployment has halved and Conservative Governments have overseen the creation of more than 800 jobs every day since 2010.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is really disturbing that BBC Online is reporting that the Foreign Secretary has changed the UK Government's approach on recognition of a Palestinian state. Does the Minister agree that bringing forward and accelerating unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state would be to reward Hamas's atrocity?
Context
BBC Online reported that the Foreign Secretary has changed the UK's approach on recognition of a Palestinian state. This change is concerning in light of Hamas's actions.
Andrew Mitchell
My right hon. Friend will be aware that there is no question of rewarding Hamas for the appalling acts they perpetrated on 7 October. The point that the Foreign Secretary has been making is that we must give the people of the west bank and Gaza a credible route to a Palestinian state and a new future, but we must do so when the time is right.
Session: Gaza
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Is it true that the Government have pledged to screen all future regulatory changes to prevent extra barriers in the Irish Sea?
Context
Reports suggest the Government will introduce a requirement to screen future regulations to avoid extra barriers in the Irish Sea.
Kemi Badenoch
I cannot comment on ongoing Northern Ireland political process. We retain ability to diverge from EU laws, and I agree with retaining comparative advantage over the EU in our regulations post-Brexit.
Session: Topical Questions
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Cancer Research UK has published an ambitious plan, 'Longer, better lives', emphasizing that a few weeks delay can impact whether patients receive curative or palliative care. With new diagnostic centres like Finchley Memorial Hospital opening, how will these improve waiting times and secure crucial early diagnosis?
Context
Cancer Research UK's plan highlights the importance of timely diagnosis for offering curative treatment. Theresa Villiers questions the effectiveness of newly established diagnostic centres in reducing patient wait times and ensuring early diagnosis.
Andrew Stephenson
Diagnostic checks are critical in the cancer pathway. The 150 community diagnostic centres opened by this Government, such as at Finchley Memorial Hospital, aim to provide earlier diagnostic tests and reduce waiting times for millions of patients. Since July 2021, these centres have delivered more than 6 million additional tests.
Session: Cancer Early Diagnosis
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I am concerned that the Government target to diagnose 75% of stageable cancers at stage 1 or stage 2 by 2028 has been challenged by the pandemic. What steps are being taken to ensure we meet this critical goal?
Context
The question arises from concerns about cancer early diagnosis targets being affected by the pandemic. Theresa Villiers highlights her work with the all-party group on radiotherapy and seeks to understand measures for support.
Andrew Stephenson
I acknowledge that diagnosing more cancers at stage 1 or stage 2 has been challenging due to the pandemic but we have made progress. Last year, more cancers were diagnosed early than ever before. This includes a focus on earlier diagnostic tests through new community diagnostic centres.
Session: Cancer Early Diagnosis
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Can my right hon. Friend assure that people in Northern Ireland have had full access to these cost of living support measures?
Context
The Government's package to support people with the cost of living amounts to about £94 billion over two years.
Steven Baker
Northern Ireland households benefited from unprecedented Government support, including energy price guarantee on electricity and gas bills; £600 in payments; targeted support for vulnerable households. The Minister assures that the UK Union benefits Northern Ireland.
Session: Cost of Living
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What steps he is taking to support Israel in preventing terrorist attacks. Some 100,000 people have been displaced from their homes in northern Israel because of the fear that if Hezbollah adopt the same tactics as Hamas, the carnage could be even worse than on 7 October.
Context
The situation in Israel is critical with recent terrorist attacks and ongoing threats.
Grant Shapps
We have provided intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance to help anticipate any further attacks and to assist with hostage recovery. We are working alongside our P3 partners to de-escalate tensions on the blue line and reduce that risk of escalation. We are continuing our efforts to support the resilience of the Lebanese armed forces, who we have helped elsewhere, with the eventual aim of getting them to the Lebanese southern border and ensuring implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1701.
Session: Israel Terrorist Attacks
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What are the Government doing to ensure the continued expansion of renewable energy so that we have greater energy security, and so that we are more resilient in the face of energy price shocks from overseas?
Context
The increase in energy prices has been a significant factor contributing to inflation. Theresa Villers is asking about measures taken by the government to ensure long-term energy security through renewable energy.
Laura Trott
At the autumn statement, the Chancellor announced measures that demonstrate the Government's ongoing commitment to renewable energy as a priority growth sector essential to our energy security and net zero ambitions. The announcements made include a new investment exemption from the electricity generator levy and a £960 million green industries growth accelerator.
Session: Inflation
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Many people with impaired mobility conditions depend on their cars for the freedom to live the lives they want to lead. Will the Government crack down on Labour's anti-car policies in local government, such as expansion of ultra-low emission zones and low-traffic networks?
Context
People with impaired mobility depend on their cars for freedom. Anti-car policies like low-traffic networks are expanding.
Maria Caulfield
This Government condemn Labour's attack on motorists. In summer, the Prime Minister ordered a review of low-traffic neighbourhoods making London inaccessible for disabled people.
Session: Topical Questions
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With the regime in Tehran's blatant support of Hamas and their activities, should we not snap back full sanctions, sanction more officials, and proscribe the IRGC?
Context
Iran has been openly supporting, funding, and arming Hamas, a terrorist organisation.
David Rutley
Our new Iran sanctions regime will soon be in place, giving us enhanced powers to counter Iranian activities worldwide. We have already sanctioned over 350 individuals and entities, including the IRGC entirely.
Session: Iran
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What steps are being taken to tackle Iran's destabilising activities in the region?
Context
Iran has been supporting groups that carry out destabilising activities in the Middle East, causing concern.
David Rutley
Iran bears responsibility for groups it has long supported. We have stepped up our response with HMS Diamond bolstering maritime presence and a new Iran sanctions regime soon to be in place, giving us greater powers to designate Iranian activity.
Session: Iran
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England has shot up the international rankings in education, but schools in Wales have not. Does that not show that Conservative education reforms are helping kids to thrive in schools in England?
Context
England's education standards have risen while Wales' have fallen.
Gillian Keegan
Yes. We have to compare and contrast that with Wales, which has the lowest educational standards in the UK. The simple answer to why that is, is that it is run by Labour. Under Labour, our education standards plummeted from eighth to 27th in maths, from seventh to 25th in reading and from fourth to 16th in science. Thanks to the hard work of our teachers and pupils, and the reforms under this Conservative Government, we have rocketed back up the tables to 11th for maths and 13th for reading and science. Every time Labour gets power, education standards fall. The Conservatives are the only ones taking the long-term decisions to deliver a better education for our children.
Session: Topical Questions
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Staff and students at Queen's University Belfast are doing some incredibly impressive work on cyber-security. What can Ministers do to ensure that that expertise is deployed to make us a more cyber-resilient nation?
Context
The question arises from impressive work on cyber-security being done at Queen's University Belfast, raising the need to utilise this expertise for national cyber-resilience.
Steven Baker
I am most grateful to my right hon. Friend. I had the pleasure of visiting the national Centre for Secure Information Technologies, and I had a particularly interesting time testing some of its systems—I do not think I should comment any further on that particular experience.
Session: University Performance
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I have a thriving British-Albanian community in my Chipping Barnet constituency, making a really positive contribution to our culture and economy. What more can the Government do to encourage them to be involved in campaigning at elections, voting in elections and standing as candidates in elections?
Context
There is a growing British-Albanian community in Theresa Villiers' constituency that contributes positively to both culture and economy.
Kemi Badenoch
I welcome my right hon. Friend's efforts in ensuring that everyone participates in the democratic process. I agree with her, but it is ultimately for local registration teams to ensure as best they can that all eligible electors in their area are correctly registered to vote.
Session: Candidate Diversity Democratic Process
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Will the Foreign Secretary make representations to his Pakistan counterpart about deeply worrying human rights abuses committed against Hindus and other minorities, especially women and girls subjected to forced conversion and forced marriage?
Context
The speaker raises concerns about the persecution of religious communities, particularly Hindus, and asks for representation.
David Rutley
Notwithstanding the challenges in Israel and Gaza, protecting freedom of religion or belief, including for minority communities, remains central to the UK Government's human rights engagement, including in Pakistan. My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary raised the persecution of religious communities, which includes Hindus, with Pakistan's Prime Minister on 25 September.
Session: Topical Questions
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May I urge the Government to give real priority to the creation of apprenticeships in the renewable energy and green sector? That way, we can use net zero to create great opportunities for young people and boost social mobility.
Context
The MP urges the government to prioritize apprenticeships in renewable energy and green sectors.
Claire Coutinho
We have delivered almost 5.5 million apprenticeships since 2010. The Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero chairs the green jobs delivery group, which will publish a net zero and nature workforce action plan in the first half of 2024.
Session: Renewable Energy Sector High-skilled Jobs
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Antisemitism and Other Racism in Football
22 June 2022
Responding: Nigel Huddleston
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the prevalence of antisemitic incidents in football, including social media abuse directed at Jewish players and fans. Specific incidents mentioned include an online comment against Celtic midfielder Nir Bitton, negative responses to Aston Villa's 'Happy Passover' message, and antisemitic chants by West Ham and Burnley supporters. These incidents highlight that antisemitism remains a serious issue in football despite efforts to combat it."]
Specific Asks
['I urge the Minister to ensure that the Online Safety Bill effectively combats antisemitism online, including requiring tech companies to address risks of algorithmic recommendation tools amplifying hate content. Additionally, I call for urgent action to prevent and punish antisemitic behaviour in football grounds and on social media.']
Access to GP Appointments
12 January 2022
Responding: Maria Caulfield
Main Concerns
["The number of doctors in hospitals has increased to record levels, but the same cannot yet be said for GPs. The workload for GPs is at an all-time high with difficulties recruiting new doctors and retaining current ones. Many patients, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly or those with learning disabilities, struggle with digital communication and require face-to-face appointments. There has been a surge in demand due to population aging, pent-up demand from the pandemic, and shifting treatments from secondary to primary care. The Mayor of London's plan for over 23,500 new homes in Barnet presents a significant increase in population pressure on GP services."]
Specific Asks
['The Government needs to focus on reducing unnecessary bureaucracy, improving phone systems, strengthening multi-disciplinary teams, and increasing training places for GPs. The Minister should update the House on how these measures are progressing and provide clarity on workforce projections and recruitment strategies. Additionally, the Government must address pension issues to retain experienced doctors.']
Motor Insurance: Court Judgments
22 September 2021
Responding: Trudy Harrison
Main Concerns
['The European Court of Justice judgment in Vnuk v. Triglav has led to the extension of compulsory motor insurance to a very broad range of vehicles involved in accidents on private land, including those not traditionally covered by road traffic laws. This change is causing significant costs for the UK compensation fund and leading to higher insurance premiums for motorists. Concerns include potential fraud opportunities due to unclear circumstances of incidents and financial burdens on young drivers and businesses recovering from lockdown.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP urges the government to bring forward their own Bill in Government time to repeal Vnuk v. Triglav from UK law, facilitating a more proportionate regulatory framework.']
Battle of Barnet: 550th Anniversary
23 March 2021
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about the potential loss of London's only registered battlefield if the exact location of the Battle of Barnet is disputed. Dr Foard's project suggested that the battle may have taken place further north, towards Wrotham Park estate, rather than in Hadley Green, Old Fold and Hadley Highstone area. Despite this uncertainty, contemporary accounts confirm that fighting extended back towards Barnet, so my constituency is likely to remain part of the battlefield site."]
Specific Asks
["I urge the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to support the Barnet medieval festival's Spacehive appeal if they have any spare resources. Additionally, I call on the National Lottery Heritage Fund to provide further funding for this year's festival. Lastly, I reiterate my previous calls for Government support for pandemic insurance for festivals and events."]
Pandemic Insurance Support For Heritage Festivals
23 March 2021
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the impact of the year-long health emergency on individuals and communities. The battle of Barnet in 1471 was a significant turning point, with up to 4,000 lives lost, marking the first extensive use of handguns and curbing the power of magnates. I acknowledge anxiety over the exact location of the battlefield but emphasize its importance for heritage tourism and local businesses. In 2018, around 6,500 people attended a medieval festival celebrating the battle.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to support pandemic insurance schemes for festivals and events to prevent further cancellations this summer, which would aid economic recovery and signal that the UK is open for business again. Additionally, I appeal for financial support from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.']
Nigeria: Sanctions Regime — [James Gray in the Chair]
23 November 2020
Main Concerns
['The lead MP is concerned about the widespread protests in Nigeria against police brutality and human rights abuses, particularly regarding the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). She highlighted a video that prompted nationwide demonstrations beginning on October 11, when President Buhari announced plans to disband SARS. However, these promises have not been fulfilled previously. On October 20, soldiers and police opened fire at a peaceful demonstration in Lagos, resulting in multiple casualties. The petitioners request Magnitsky-type sanctions against individuals responsible for such abuses.']
Specific Asks
["The lead MP asks the Government to consider imposing targeted sanctions on individuals involved in human rights violations; provide clarity on UK aid and security programs involving Nigerian forces; address representations regarding human rights abuses of Christians by terrorist groups; and increase engagement with the Nigerian diaspora in the United Kingdom to shape the UK's response."]
Remembrance and Veterans
28 October 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
This debate is about honouring and supporting veterans, focusing on the legacy Act in Northern Ireland and its impact on veterans' rights. It also highlights the importance of remembrance events, lear...
War in Gaza
07 May 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Horticultural Peat: Prohibition of Sale
16 April 2024
General Debate
Led by this MP
Proposes a Bill to prohibit the use of peat products in amateur gardening in England by the end of 2024, due to environmental concerns such as carbon release and habitat destruction. The move comes af...
Iran-Israel Update
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Gaza
26 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 ...
Hunting Trophies (Prohibition) Bill - Second Reading of the Bill
22 March 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The lead MP, John Spellar, is advocating for the Second Reading of the Hunting Trophies (Prohibition) Bill. He emphasises the need to prohibit importing hunting trophies from endangered animals, highl...
The ULEZ Expansion (Consequential Provisions) Bill - Clause 1
22 March 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Gareth Johnson proposes to overturn the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) scheme in London, arguing it is a form of taxation that disproportionately affects the poorest members of so...
Food Security
21 March 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Dementia Care in Hospital
06 March 2024
Adjournment Debate
Led by this MP
My constituent Lisa Rutter, founder of Dementia Club UK, shared distressing experiences about her mother's treatment at Barnet Hospital during the COVID pandemic. Her mother was wrongly assessed as se...
9
PMQs Asked
161
Ministerial Questions Asked
152
House of Commons Debates Involved
6
Westminster Hall Debates Led
3
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
+146% above average
This MP:
9
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+1101% above average
This MP:
161
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+139% above average
This MP:
6
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3028% above average
This MP:
152
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-68% below average
This MP:
3
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 Theresa Villiers's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.