Virendra Sharma
MP for Ealing, Southall
Lab
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Will the Prime Minister use next week's Ukraine recovery conference to invest in telecoms recovery, ensuring people are connected throughout the war?
Context
The largest mobile operator in Ukraine has kept services running at 93% during the war.
Rishi Sunak
We are hosting next week's Ukraine recovery conference summit to bring in private capital to help rebuild Ukraine. We admire companies providing essential services.
Session: PMQs
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The Home Office, the Department of Health and Social Care and others now regularly take six months to respond to letters to Ministers. People with immigration cases wait years to hear anything at all. However, instead of putting resources into fixing this unacceptable problem, the Prime Minister is choosing to fire thousands of civil servants, and his Minister is wandering around Whitehall putting Post-it notes on desks that he thinks look too empty. Will the Prime Minister personally look into this issue and instruct his Ministers and civil servants to give our constituents the attention they deserve?
Context
The MP highlighted the long delays in responding to letters and applications from constituents regarding immigration cases.
Boris Johnson
I must respectfully disagree with the implication for the civil service that working from home is everywhere as productive as being in the office. I simply do not accept that. I think we will become more productive and more efficient if, on the whole, we find ways to get back to our desks.
Assessment
The response did not address the issue of slow correspondence or provide instructions for improvement.
Session: PMQs
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After six months, we do not have a credible route to help people out of Afghanistan safely. The most recent update from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is directly contradicted by the UN. While the FCDO claims that from spring the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees will make referrals to evacuation schemes, the UNHCR's own website is clear that it makes no such referrals. Are the Government creating a Kafkaesque system to intentionally fail those we owe something to?
Context
Thousands of people supported the NATO mission in Afghanistan and are now stranded without a safe exit route.
Boris Johnson
I believe the hon. Member does a serious injustice to the efforts of local councils up and down the country to look after people coming from Afghanistan and I think he does an injustice to the efforts of the UK. We are proud under Operation Pitting to have already evacuated 15,000 people from Afghanistan. We have allocated £286 million in assistance for people in Afghanistan and we are continuing to offer safe passage to this country from Afghanistan.
Assessment
The inconsistencies mentioned were not directly addressed; only general support was stated.
Session: PMQs
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I recognise that the UK plays an outsized role in NATO as a bridge between the US and Europe. Should we be contributing our industrial expertise to EU defence programmes for additional resilience?
Context
Recognition of the UK's outsize role in NATO and contributions to European security.
Grant Shapps
We are indeed contributors to every single NATO mission, second biggest spender in NATO, and the only country in Europe besides France declaring its nuclear deterrent to NATO. We will always look at ways to do more with NATO by committing 2.5% of GDP.
Session: NATO UK Obligations
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What steps he is taking to ensure that the UK meets its NATO obligations. Given the situation with Russia and the need for credible armed forces, what specific measures are being taken?
Context
UK's commitment to NATO, particularly in light of Russia's illegal war in Ukraine.
Grant Shapps
Our commitment to NATO is unwavering. We contribute to every single NATO mission, declare our nuclear deterrent to NATO, and increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP.
Session: NATO UK Obligations
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With more than 80,000 children caught up in private family law proceedings, what is the Secretary of State doing to ensure that the welfare of children is protected?
Context
More than 80,000 children are involved in private family law proceedings.
Alex Chalk (Minister of State for Justice)
We have managed to secure funding from the Treasury to roll out early legal advice in private family law. Alongside the Pathfinder pilot scheme, it is designed to make the process of dealing with private family disputes more seamless and less painful, ultimately ensuring that children are put first.
Session: Topical Questions
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What will the Government do to ensure developers are not trying to rip off homeowners with inflated bills?
Context
Leaseholders face unfair service charge bills that are often inflated or for undelivered services. When involved, these bills drop by a third.
Michael Gove
Fair point. Frank Dobson said that he was going to reform the leasehold system in 1995. We are doing it now. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bill, which the Minister for Housing, Planning and Building Safety is piloting, will bring relief to leaseholders.
Session: Topical Questions
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Nearly 50,000 people needed help from Ealing Foodbank last year. Some 38% were children under 16. What are the Government's plans to reduce dependence on food banks?
Context
Concerns about the high number of people using Ealing Foodbank, with nearly half being children under 16.
Mel Stride
This is the Government who have overseen a 400,000 reduction in the number of children in absolute poverty since 2010. Despite the chuntering from the Opposition Front Bench, unfortunately the figures were far worse under the last Labour Government than they may be at the moment. The hon. Gentleman asks directly what we are doing. We are again putting up the national living wage by substantially more than inflation this April. The Chancellor has already brought in national insurance cuts that will be worth £900 to the average earner. Benefits themselves are going up by 6.7% next month. We have also changed the arrangements for local housing allowance, which means that 1.6 million people, many of whom are on very low incomes, will be better off by an average of £800 a year.
Session: Cost of Living Food Bank Use
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I am concerned about the adequacy of local housing allowance rates given that one child in every classroom is homeless and only around 2% of properties are affordable for rent on local housing allowance. What assessment has the Chancellor made?
Context
London's homelessness is at crisis point with more than 1 in 50 Londoners in temporary accommodation. Affordable housing is scarce, with only around 2% of properties affordable for rent on local housing allowance.
Jeremy Hunt
We continue to keep under review all factors impacting poverty rates, and have invested £2 billion over three years in homelessness reduction. Rough sleeping has decreased by 35% since its peak.
Session: Topical Questions
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When will the Government learn that early years matter? One in four children leave primary school without core maths skills and never catch up. Does the Minister agree that, instead of forcing everyone to study maths to 18, we should focus on early years and encourage a more positive attitude to learning maths, rather than leave it hanging over pupils?
Context
One in four children leave primary school without core maths skills, never catching up. The MP questions the focus on extending maths education to age 18.
Nick Gibb
In fact, we are focusing on both. We have reformed the early years foundation stage to ensure that there is more interaction between adults and pupils in that stage, with a focus on numeracy and English as well. In 2011, we took the Singapore primary curriculum as the basis of our primary maths, and we introduced the multiplication tables check for year 4 pupils. An increasing number of pupils are now fluent in their times tables, in a way that generations of children in the past have not been.
Session: Maths Standards Primary Education
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What steps she is taking to increase the number of primary school children meeting expected standards in maths?
Context
The MP is concerned about the number of primary school children meeting expected standards in maths.
Nick Gibb
Since 2010, we have reformed the maths curriculum, reflecting international best practice, and introduced a network of maths hubs to boost the quality of teaching. In 2019, primary pupils achieved their highest ever score in the latest TIMSS—trends in international mathematics and science study—international survey, and Ofsted recently found “a resounding, positive shift” in primary maths education.
Session: Maths Standards Primary Education
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Can the Minister assure the House that the Secretary of State will stand up for British jobs and research and development or is our only hope to replace him with my right hon. Friend the Member for Wentworth and Dearne (John Healey)?
Context
The previous Defence Secretary prioritized British jobs over purchasing from America, but The Times reported a conflict with the Prime Minister regarding helicopter purchases.
James Cartlidge
Debate is ongoing in defence procurement, and has been for many years, about the difference between buying off-the-shelf and having our own sovereign capability. The fact is that, until we brought out the defence and security industrial strategy in 2021, arguably the default position of the MOD was to go primarily for value for money. Since DSIS, we have a more flexible and balanced approach, seen in many specific procurements, where we give much greater weighting to social value and local content.
Session: Defence Sector UK-based Jobs
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What steps he is taking to help increase the number of UK-based jobs in the defence sector. The latest estimates suggest that Ministry of Defence investment supports over 200,000 jobs in industries across the UK.
Context
The question follows a debate on defence procurement and job creation in the UK's defence industry.
James Cartlidge
The latest estimates suggest that Ministry of Defence investment supports over 200,000 jobs in industries across the UK. I believe that the best way to keep growing jobs in defence is to back the British defence industry. That is why I am delighted to confirm that, this week in London, we are hosting the biggest ever DSEI—Defence and Security Equipment International—showcasing the very best of the British defence industry, with companies large and small.
Session: Defence Sector UK-based Jobs
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When will the Government grow a backbone, stand up to those MPs and build the houses we need to avoid catastrophe?
Context
Over the last 50 years, housing has become over 13 times more expensive with tenants spending up to half their income on rent. Only one in three people born this year will own a home before they are 50 if current trends continue.
Michael Gove
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman but, as was pointed out earlier in these questions, the area of the country where housing numbers are worst, where planning permissions are being built out most slowly and where the fewest planning permissions are granted overall has been London, under a Labour Mayor.
Session: Topical Questions
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To combat this pressing situation, will the Government commit to starting new breakfast clubs in primary schools and to creating bursaries for the families most affected by the cost of living crisis?
Context
The MP mentioned a letter from Dormers Wells Junior School about the challenges students face due to the cost of living crisis, including worries about meals and housing conditions. He called for concrete actions like new breakfast clubs and bursaries.
Nick Gibb
I share the hon. Gentleman's concern about these issues. The Government are committed to supporting vulnerable households with £26 billion of support announced for 2023-24, in addition to £37 billion this year. Support for school breakfasts is ongoing; a national programme extension was made last November, providing up to £30 million to support around 2,500 schools.
Session: Pupil Attainment Cost of Living
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What assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of increases in the cost of living on pupil attainment?
Context
The MP noted concerns about the impact of rising costs on student performance and cited specific challenges faced by children in his constituency, including food insecurity and inadequate heating. He referenced a letter from Dormers Wells Junior School highlighting these issues.
Nick Gibb
Raising academic standards is at the heart of the Government's education agenda. We routinely assess the impact on student attainment of a range of factors, including the cost of living. The schools budget will increase by £3.5 billion in 2023-24, combined with a £4 billion increase for this year. The pupil premium is rising to about £2.9 million in the next financial year, supporting disadvantaged students.
Session: Pupil Attainment Cost of Living
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Ealing Law Centre, a fantastic practice in my constituency, is forced to turn away people eligible for legal aid because it is at capacity. Legal aid pays an average of just £74 per case, and civil legal aid fees have not increased since 2010. As people struggle during the ongoing housing crisis, my constituents risk losing their homes. Does the Minister think that that sum is enough, and that his Department is doing enough to prevent unnecessary home loss in court?
Context
Ealing Law Centre, which serves the MP's constituency, is turning away eligible clients due to capacity issues. Legal aid pays an average of £74 per case and has not increased since 2010.
Dominic Raab
Legal aid needs more money, which is why we are increasing spend by up to £138 million a year, taking the expected criminal legal aid spend next year to £1.2 billion.
Session: Topical Questions
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Why do we not stop their abusers stealing the wealth of the country and sanction more than just 50 people at the top of the organisation?
Context
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' presence in the UK and their ability to travel freely and store wealth without sanctions.
Thomas Tugendhat
The hon. Member is absolutely correct: the IRGC is a vicious organisation and its first victims are the Iranian people, who have been brutalised and murdered by that despotic regime for far too long. The UK Government are taking actions in looking into various areas.
Session: Iranian Regime Threat to UK
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What recent assessment has the Department made of the level of threat posed by the Iranian regime to people in the UK?
Context
The Iranian regime's potential threats to UK-based individuals have been reported since January 2022.
Thomas Tugendhat
The director general of MI5 recently outlined that, since January 2022, there have been at least 10 Iranian threats to kidnap or even kill UK-based individuals. The level of the Iranian threat is kept under constant review.
Session: Iranian Regime Threat to UK
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Does my hon. Friend the Minister recognise that the Edinburgh reforms have helped make our financial services sector more competitive? I urge her to adopt a similar approach to R&D tax reliefs and capital allowances so that our world-class entrepreneurs, start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises can benefit from the same advantages.
Context
The MP is seeking support for R&D tax reliefs and capital allowances to help entrepreneurs, start-ups, and SMEs.
Victoria Atkins
We are setting the annual investment allowance permanently at £1 million from 1 April, and reviewing the research and development tax reliefs to ensure that while we rebalance the rates of relief out of fairness to the taxpayer, we target that relief at knowledge-intensive and innovation-intensive businesses.
Session: Tax System Fairness
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What recent steps has the Minister taken to ensure fairness in the application of the tax system? Does he think it is fair that landlords and those on high incomes earned through trading stocks and shares pay less tax than those paid a salary?
Context
The MP is questioning the fairness of the current tax system and recent changes.
Victoria Atkins
It is right that everyone contributes to sustainable public finances in a fair way. The autumn statement tax reforms mean that those with the broadest shoulders contribute the most. We are also implementing the OECD pillar two reforms so that multinational corporations pay their fair share of tax, and we are introducing measures to address tax avoidance and evasion to ensure that people pay the right amount at the right time. In relation to dividends and corporation tax allowances, we want to ensure, where we can, that unearned income is roughly comparable to earned income.
Session: Tax System Fairness
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I welcome recent developments in the Tempest programme. Having our own combat air industrial capabilities is incredibly important, and ensures that we are not dependent on the Americans, but what is the MOD doing to ensure that all the enablers for modern combat are built here and bring real industrial value to the UK?
Context
The Tempest programme is important for UK combat air industrial capabilities.
Alex Chalk
This provides a capability that will ensure that we stay one step ahead of our adversaries, and it will be a collaboration with Japan and Italy. This can lead to opportunities for exporting expertise.
Session: Defence Sector Support for UK Companies
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What steps he is taking to support UK companies in the defence sector?
Context
The question is about the steps being taken to support UK defence companies.
Alex Chalk
The defence and security industrial strategy is helping to retain onshore critical industries for our national security and our future. The Ministry of Defence supports the development of a more productive and competitive UK defence sector. With a significant footprint across the UK and the procurement pipeline, the MOD is well placed to contribute to economic growth and levelling up.
Session: Defence Sector Support for UK Companies
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Does the Attorney General agree that the Government need urgent answers to three basic questions: (a) What is the total scale of fraud in the UK? (b) How much of it is perpetrated from overseas? (c) And how much of it is perpetrated by organised crime? Can we have an answer to any of those questions today?
Context
The question addresses the need to understand the total scale, overseas origin, and involvement of organised crime in fraud cases.
Michael Tomlinson
Both the CPS and the SFO play a significant role in tackling fraud and economic crime, and we should not gloss over the successes that there have been. Once again, I pay tribute to the SFO for its successful prosecution of Glencore, which resulted in a £280 million total payment, the highest ever that has been ordered in a corporate criminal conviction in the United Kingdom.
Session: Economic Crime Serious Fraud Office and CPS Effectiveness
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What steps she is taking to improve the effectiveness of the (a) Serious Fraud Office and (b) Crown Prosecution Service in prosecuting cases of fraud and economic crime. Last year, the CPS prosecuted 7,200 defendants where fraud and forgery were the principal offence, with an 84.1% conviction rate.
Context
The question addresses the effectiveness of government agencies in prosecuting cases of fraud and economic crime.
Michael Tomlinson
Last year the Crown Prosecution Service prosecuted 7,200 defendants where fraud and forgery were the principal offence, and the conviction rate was 84.1%. This financial year, the Serious Fraud Office has successfully prosecuted four fraudsters, as well as Glencore, which resulted in the highest ever order in a corporate criminal conviction in the UK.
Session: Economic Crime Serious Fraud Office and CPS Effectiveness
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Unemployment in my constituency is still significantly higher than it was before the pandemic and it is twice the national average. Ministers keep saying that times are tough and that we need to make difficult decisions. Will the Minister commit to raising payments in line with inflation to prevent misery for thousands in Ealing, Southall? Will he work with his colleagues to help the economy, not hinder it?
Context
Ealing, Southall has an unemployment rate twice the national average since before the pandemic.
Guy Opperman
I am slightly puzzled by the hon. Gentleman's question. Clearly, we did raise a significant proportion of benefits in line with inflation at the autumn statement. He will also be aware of the taper that was reduced to 55%, and the work on increased work allowances, additional earnings thresholds and the in-work progression—I could go on.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister meet the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association to discuss its Open Doors campaign and stop the shame whereby nearly three quarters of guide dog owners have reported an access refusal in the past 12 months?
Context
The Equality Act 2010 does not have sufficient legal teeth, leaving responsibility entirely on individuals who have been discriminated against to pursue legal redress.
Tom Pursglove
I would be absolutely delighted to meet Guide Dogs to talk about the campaign. It is an important stakeholder in the disability sector, and we will make sure that that meeting happens.
Session: Topical Questions
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He asks if the Minister will listen to Labour and put a domestic abuse specialist in 999 control rooms so that victims who are most at risk can be identified and helped quickly.
Context
New statistics show that only one in ten victims of partner abuse reported it to the police last year. The questioner mentions the Solihull murders as an example of the importance of a strong police response.
Sarah Dines
The hon. Member is right to raise this issue, as it highlights the importance of a robust response to domestic abuse. The Government introduced the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 last year and supports prevention, education, supporting victims, pursuing perpetrators, and doing sensitive police work.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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I thank the Minister for his response. Data from the DVSA shows that ethnic minorities are far less likely to pass their tests than white candidates. What steps will his Department take to ensure that discrimination has no place in driving test centres?
Context
Data from the DVSA shows that ethnic minorities are significantly less likely to pass their driving tests compared to white candidates, suggesting potential discrimination.
Richard Holden
Discrimination has absolutely no place in driving test centres. I advise the hon. Gentleman to get in touch with me about any such incidents and I will take them up directly with the DVSA.
Session: Practical Driving Tests
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What recent estimate has been made of the number of people waiting for a practical driving test?
Context
Data indicates a significant backlog of individuals waiting for practical driving tests.
Richard Holden
There are 95,000 available car test slots at the moment, an increase of over 80,000 in the past six months thanks to the hard work of the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency and our brilliant driving examiners.
Session: Practical Driving Tests
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My constituent registered with a regulated firm and invested in the financial product that an FCA-regulated broker recommended. My constituent and her father both lost money on the fraudulent product that the broker recommended. Does the Minister agree that the FCA should step in and support victims of scams, and will he empower and instruct the FCA and other regulators to be more aggressive in their support of the defrauded?
Context
A constituent lost money on a fraudulent product recommended by an FCA-regulated broker. The hon. Member is seeking support from the FCA and other regulators.
Andrew Griffith
I will happily meet the hon. Member to understand more details of the case. It is important that the FCA provides protection for consumers. That is one of the objectives of the Financial Services and Markets Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Session: Topical Questions
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I just want to clarify in my own mind that the right hon. Lady has no plans at present to carry on the previous policy of privatising Channel 4. Film4 films have collectively won 37 academy awards and 84 BAFTAs—a record that any Hollywood studio would be proud of. Its films include important examples of the British Asian experience, such as “Bhaji on the Beach”. Does the Minister recognise that the privatisation of Channel 4 would jeopardise the only major private investment stream in British film?
Context
No specific incident or context provided.
Michelle Donelan
As I said in answer to the hon. Gentleman's first question, I am thoroughly reviewing the business case, which is the right thing to do—I am an evidence-based politician. We have a fantastic, growing creative industry in this country, which relies on platforms such as Channel 4. That is, of course, part of the decision-making process.
Session: Channel 4 Privatisation
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How can he defend raising taxes on working people while recommending scrapping pay caps for high-earning executives?
Context
Tax rises are worsening the cost of living, and there is a disparity in pay rise recommendations for workers vs. FTSE 100 bosses.
Rishi Sunak
70% of workers in this country will have a net tax cut. In just a couple of weeks' time, the first £12,500 that anyone in work earns will be free of any tax or national insurance.
Session: Cost of Living
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What fiscal steps is the government taking to help reduce the impact of inflation on households' cost of living?
Context
MP noted rising prices are causing significant financial strain for many households.
Rishi Sunak
The Government understand that many families are struggling with rising prices. We have announced £37 billion-worth of support, with the bulk targeted at vulnerable households who will receive around £1,200 of help this year.
Session: Cost of Living
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Labour has uncovered £3.5 billion-worth of covid contracts that were awarded to Tory-linked firms. Last week, Dominic Cummings said that bungs were paid, with no civil service oversight, to newspapers. Why on earth does the Chancellor think the British public should trust him with the public finances when he manages the economy with the Prime Minister's mantra, “One rule for us, one rule for everyone else”?
Context
There have been reports of £3.5 billion-worth of covid contracts awarded to Tory-linked firms, raising concerns about public trust in government management of the economy.
Simon Clarke (Minister of State for Health and Social Care)
Obviously we are all clear that all fraud against the Exchequer is an outrage and totally wrong. That is why we have established a £100 million taxpayer protection taskforce, which is precisely determined to focus on that. We also have a new fraud function within Government, which is heavily focused on making sure that we address those issues.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister act to ensure that those in social care are paid properly with a real living wage?
Context
Care workers often work long hours and are crucial for vulnerable individuals. Citizens UK is campaigning to ensure they receive a real living wage.
Gillian Keegan
According to Skills for Care data, most care workers were paid above the national living wage in 2020-21. The government committed £1.36 billion to the market sustainability and fair cost fund to support local authorities in paying providers a fair cost of care.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Secretary of State's colleague the Chancellor is intending to increase VAT on live music tickets by 7.5 percentage points, which is 50% extra. What steps is she taking to promote live music and save it from this Government's crippling tax rises?
Context
The question criticises an increase in VAT on live music tickets proposed by the Chancellor, arguing it will harm the live music sector. It seeks specific measures to mitigate this impact.
Julia Lopez
As I said, I will be meeting UK Music and I am happy to discuss this matter with it. We have provided a huge amount of support to the live music industry throughout the pandemic, including a really successful reinsurance scheme, but I am happy to take the hon. Gentleman's points away.
Session: Topical Questions
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One of my constituents has provided multiple pieces of video evidence and repeatedly reported indecent exposure by a neighbour, aimed at his young daughters. The police repeatedly changed the staff who were handling the case, and then the CPS declined to prosecute for lack of evidence and because the flasher had moved. Will the Attorney General empower the CPS to prosecute more such crimes so that women and girls can have faith in the justice system to help them?
Context
A constituent provided video evidence of indecent exposure by a neighbour towards his young daughters, but the CPS declined to prosecute due to lack of evidence.
Alex Chalk
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for raising that important case. Under the victims code that we introduced in April last year, victims have the opportunity to seek a right to review—in other words, a right to ask the CPS to reconsider a decision—and I know many individuals will take up that opportunity. We have outlawed several offences, such as upskirting, coercive control and non-fatal strangulation, to ensure that more victims get the justice they deserve.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls
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What steps she is taking to increase the number of prosecutions relating to violence against women and girls?
Context
The question arises from concerns about the number of prosecutions related to violence against women and girls.
Alex Chalk
Tackling violence against women and girls is a central mission of this Government and, indeed, of independent prosecutors. More than 10,400 suspects were charged with domestic abuse offences in the most recent quarter for which data is available, with a conviction rate of more than 75%. Following a successful spending review, the Crown Prosecution Service is recruiting prosecutors and other staff to ensure that even more victims see justice done.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls
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I declare my interest as a former employee of London Transport. TfL warns cuts are imminent without long-term funding. Despite offering 18 months of bail-outs to private rail companies, no similar deal has been made with TfL. When will the government stop playing political games and provide TfL with a long-term funding agreement?
Context
Transport for London has warned it will cut services if long-term funding is not provided. Previous bailouts were given to private rail companies.
Grant Shapps
We have given £5 billion-worth of support to TfL, which is an incredibly fair settlement. While we should see what happens with the pandemic before discussing longer-term settlements, I note that capital grants are under consideration. The long-term funding agreement will be discussed after the pandemic.
Session: Topical Questions
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I am concerned about the actions taken by my department regarding Russian interests in the UK, particularly the detention of private jets and investigation of yachts linked to Putin's cronies. What is the government doing to ensure these individuals cannot leave or benefit from their assets here?
Context
The government has taken actions to clamp down on Russian interests, including detaining private jets and investigating yachts. However, further details are requested.
Grant Shapps
We have detained private jets that we believe are owned by, or connected to, Putin's cronies. We are investigating a small number of yachts moored in this country which we suspect are linked to Russian oligarchs. Steps are being taken to ensure these assets cannot be used and investigations are ongoing. 10 Russian-linked ships have been turned away or redirected on their course, and eight ships or their companies have severed their Russian ties.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is the UK on track to meet its targets for eliminating female genital mutilation (FGM) by 2030, despite the increased risks posed by the pandemic?
Context
The UN estimates that 2 million extra girls are at risk of FGM due to the pandemic. The UK committed to eliminate harmful practices by 2030.
Victoria Atkins
The Government is committed to eliminating female genital mutilation. We are supporting victims through the tackling violence against women and girls strategy, educating people that FGM is not a fit practice for the 21st century, and addressing this issue over the last decade.
Session: Violence Against Women and Girls
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Yesterday I heard the shocking story of a refugee stuck in Iran, unable to leave because he has been told he needs to register with the Iranian Government but fears repercussions. Will the Minister act to ensure such cases do not occur and secure a safe route?
Context
A refugee is unable to register with the Iranian Government due to fear of being returned to their country of origin. The questioner seeks action from the Minister.
James Cleverly
The hon Gentleman is invited to write about the case. Lord Ahmad speaks with countries bordering Afghanistan, including Iran despite strained relations. Land routes across Iran are acknowledged as exit routes but details on individual cases cannot be provided without more information.
Session: Afghanistan Humanitarian Situation
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Global Health Agencies and Vaccine-Preventable Deaths
09 May 2024
Responding: Andrew Mitchell
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the importance of vaccines and immunisation in tackling deadly diseases. Vaccines have a positive effect in reducing incidence, spread, and mortality of infectious diseases, leading to significant reductions in cases like polio and measles. However, there are challenges such as ensuring strong health systems for successful vaccine roll-outs and addressing inequalities in vaccine manufacturing capabilities highlighted during the covid-19 pandemic.']
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister how the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has been engaging with Gavi ahead of its next replenishment. I also inquire about the support given to the Global Fund for strengthening health systems worldwide. Additionally, I seek assurance that the UK will pledge significant financial support to both organisations when they host their respective replenishment conferences next year.']
UN High-level Meetings in 2023
11 July 2023
Responding: Leo Docherty
Main Concerns
["Virendra Sharma is concerned about the effectiveness of current global health strategies and the need for improved international cooperation. He points out that many pressing issues, such as pandemic preparedness and response (PPR), universal health coverage (UHC), and tuberculosis (TB) require multi-sector collaboration and leadership from Heads of Government. Specifically, he notes that TB is a disease of poverty affecting 1 billion people worldwide, with nearly half facing catastrophic personal or household costs due to diagnosis and treatment. He also highlights the need for increased investment in TB vaccine research and development, as well as new treatments and addressing antimicrobial resistance. Ian Byrne is concerned about the UK Government's failure to meet the United Nations' sustainable development goals both domestically and internationally. He highlighted a £620 million reduction in bilateral health aid from the UK, a decrease in life expectancy since 2011, and inequalities in life expectancy within Liverpool of up to 20 years. Additionally, Byrne pointed out that TB diagnosis rates fell by 18% globally due to pandemic disruptions, indicating fewer cases being detected."]
Specific Asks
['Sharma asks the Minister to confirm whether the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary will attend all three high-level meetings later this year. Additionally, he requests updates on when new or renewed product development partnerships funding might be expected for TB vaccine research, and what more can be done to support UK research and development in the context of TB. Byrne asks the Minister to provide an update on engagement with the drafting of political declarations for UN high-level meetings and outlines what more can be done to support UK research and development in TB. He also questions why international aid spending was cut and austerity policies were pursued, which are negatively impacting health outcomes.']
Litter Action Groups
19 April 2023
Responding: Rebecca Pow
Main Concerns
['The lead MP is concerned about the lack of awareness among people regarding the cost of littering and fly-tipping, especially in his constituency. He acknowledges the significant contribution made by volunteer groups like LAGER Can to cleaning up litter and reducing fly-tipping. The group has donated at least 16,506 hours to Ealing Council in 2022 alone, saving an estimated £282,000. However, there are still issues with bureaucratic barriers hindering volunteer efforts in some parts of the country.']
Specific Asks
['The lead MP asks for four actions from the Government: support for volunteer litter-picking groups, a national standard on fly-tipping enforcement, inclusion of glass bottles in deposit return schemes, and an end to plastic in wet wipes with a ban included in upcoming legislation.']
Antimicrobial Resistance: Farm Animals
18 January 2023
Responding: Mark Spencer
Main Concerns
['Virendra Sharma is concerned about the overuse of antibiotics on healthy farm animals, which contributes to antimicrobial resistance. He highlighted that around 75% of antibiotics used on UK farms are for group treatments and not individual sick animals. This practice, he argued, is a result of poor hygiene and inadequate animal husbandry in factory farms, leading to unsanitary conditions and disease proliferation. Sharma cited a study showing AMR bacteria found in rivers near factory farms but not higher-welfare outdoor farms. He also mentioned that livestock farms polluted rivers 300 times last year, further stressing the urgency.']
Specific Asks
['Sharma asks when the Government intends to introduce a ban on routine antibiotic use in healthy farm animals and requests a commitment from the Minister to address AMR effectively, echoing EU regulations. He also urges the government to implement new veterinary medicines regulation as promised.']
World Tuberculosis Day
24 March 2022
Responding: Vicky Ford
Main Concerns
["I am concerned about TB being the world's deadliest infectious disease before COVID-19, with 10 million cases and 1.5 million deaths in 2020 alone. The situation has deteriorated further over the past two years. In higher-income countries, TB is more commonly found among migrant communities, people with alcohol, drug or mental health issues, homeless individuals, and those with a history of incarceration. TB remains concentrated in urban areas such as London, where it accounts for 35% of cases in England annually."]
Specific Asks
['I ask the Minister what more can be done to tackle the social determinants and key risk factors that increase the likelihood of someone contracting TB and how the Government plans to ensure that TB levels continue to drop in the UK?']
Smoking Reduction and Tobacco Control Bill - Clause 1
16 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the Bill, stating its purpose is to prevent future generations from starting smoking. Argues that the only product that kills two thirds of its long-term users if consumed as intended is tobacco...
Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill
17 January 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Mr. Jenrick moved an amendment to ensure that the relevant provisions of the Human Rights Act 1998 are fully disapplied for both this Bill and the Illegal Migration Act 2023 in relation to removals to...
Autumn Statement Resolutions - Rates of Tobacco Products Duty
27 November 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Under-age Vaping
12 July 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The speaker expressed concern about the alarming rise in under-age vaping, citing a study by Action on Smoking and Health which found that children participating in experimental vaping has increased b...
Rail Ticket Offices
06 July 2023
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Opposition Half Day - 18th Allotted Day, First PartOpposition Half Day
21 June 2023
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Backbench Business
10 February 2022
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Taiwan is a democracy that values free markets, the rule of law, and cultural diversity. The speaker emphasises the importance of protecting Taiwan's democratic system against Chinese claims and suppo...
Child Marriage Prohibition Bill - Clause 1 (Minimum age of marriage)
19 November 2021
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Moves the Child Marriage Prohibition Bill, aiming to set a blanket minimum age for marriage at 18 in England and Wales. Argues that current laws allowing marriages at 16 with parental consent are outd...
Racism in Cricket
09 November 2021
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Ways and Means
01 November 2021
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Chancellor of the Exchequer's Budget statement was framed as an unveiling of a new era of economic optimism following the pandemic. Michael Gove highlighted the Office for Budget Responsibility’s ...
3
PMQs Asked
80
Ministerial Questions Asked
24
House of Commons Debates Involved
5
Westminster Hall Debates Led
14
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 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
-19% below average
This MP:
3
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+486% above average
This MP:
80
Average:
13.7
Westminster Hall Debates Led
+98% above average
This MP:
5
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+396% above average
This MP:
24
Average:
4.8
Statements / Bills Proposed
+47% above average
This MP:
14
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.4
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 Virendra Sharma's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.