Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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The Chancellor of the Exchequer allegedly agreed to write off £4.3 billion in government fraud, equivalent to £154 per household.
I associate myself with the Prime Minister's remarks on Bloody Sunday. Did the Prime Minister agree to the Chancellor of the Exchequer writing off £4.3 billion of fraud? That is £154 from every household in the country that went directly into the pockets of fraudsters.
No, of course not. We do not support fraudsters or those who steal from the public purse, but what I can tell the hon. Lady is that everybody in this country should be very proud of the huge effort that was made by Lord Agnew and others to secure ventilators and personal protective equipment.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address whether he agreed to write off fraud
Changed Subject
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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The George Eliot Hospital recognised its staff, helpers and volunteers for their work throughout the covid pandemic.
My local hospital, the George Eliot, has recently issued all of its staff, helpers and volunteers with a medal in recognition of the work that they have done and continue to do throughout the covid pandemic. Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking them all for the incredible work they have done, including the specialist teams such as palliative care, who have had to act as surrogate families for patients whose relatives have been unable to attend because of restrictions? Will he consider following their lead in issuing a national service medal for all our key workers, who have done such an outstanding job in keeping our country going throughout the pandemic?
Yes, of course. I thank my hon. Friend, and I am pleased that so many of the volunteers and staff at George Eliot Hospital have been recognised in the Queen's new year honours list. I have seen the medal that the hospital is proposing, and I think it is lovely. As I have told the House before, we are establishing a UK commission on covid commemoration to consider how we can commemorate everything that we have all been through, and the commission will also consider how we can recognise the courage of frontline workers.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to issuing a national service medal for key workers
Referenced Existing Recognition
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The ministerial code stipulates that ministers who knowingly mislead Parliament must offer their resignation.
I join the Prime Minister in his comments in relation to Bloody Sunday. The ministerial code says that: “Ministers who knowingly mislead Parliament will be expected to offer their resignation”. Does the Prime Minister believe that applies to him?
Of course, but let me tell the House that I think the right hon. and learned Gentleman is inviting a question about an investigation on which, as you know, Mr Speaker, I cannot comment, and on which he, as a lawyer, will know that I cannot comment.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address whether the ministerial code applies to him
Cannot Comment
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister previously stated that all guidance was followed during the lockdown.
I think the Prime Minister said yes, he agrees that the code does apply to him. Therefore, if he misled Parliament, he must resign. On 1 December, the Prime Minister told this House from the Dispatch Box, in relation to parties during lockdown, that “all guidance was followed completely in No. 10.”—[Official Report, 1 December 2021; Vol. 704, c. 909.] He looks quizzical, but he said it. On 8 December, the Prime Minister told this House that “I have been repeatedly assured since these allegations emerged that there was no party”.—[Official Report, 8 December 2021; Vol. 705, c. 372.] Since he acknowledges that the ministerial code applies to him, will he now resign?
No. But since the right hon. and learned Gentleman asks about covid restrictions, let me just remind the House and, indeed, the country that he has been relentlessly opportunistic throughout.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address whether he will resign if misled Parliament
Changed Subject
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Sue Gray reported the matter to the police, who determined it was a serious breach of rules.
This is the guy who said that, in hindsight, he now appreciates it was a party. We have discovered the real Captain Hindsight, have we not? Let me spell out the significance of yesterday's developments. Sue Gray reported the matter to the police, having found evidence of behaviour that is potentially a criminal offence. Prime Minister, if you do not understand the significance of what happened yesterday, I really do despair. The police, having got that material from Sue Gray, subjected it to a test to decide whether to investigate. That test was whether it was the “most serious and flagrant” type of breach in the rules.
I hope the right hon. and learned Gentleman understands that, although the issue he raises is important, there is simply no way—as he knows, as a lawyer—that I can comment on the investigation that is currently taking place.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address significance of developments
Cannot Comment
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Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister went into hiding for five days because of the allegations.
This was the Prime Minister who went into hiding for five days because of these allegations. He should not talk to me about being around for the allegations—[Interruption.]
What I can tell the right hon. and learned Gentleman is that we have to leave the report to the independent investigator, as he knows. When I receive it, of course I will do exactly what I said.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address why he went into hiding
Cannot Comment
Response accuracy
Q7
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister is under police investigation, which has damaged public trust. The Leader of the House criticized the Scottish Conservatives for calling for the PM's resignation.
We have a Prime Minister under police investigation, unable to lead the country. Throughout this scandal, the Tories have done immense damage to public trust. How much damage are you prepared to do to save his skin?
The Government can be trusted to deliver, having delivered on Brexit and a fast vaccine roll-out. Crime is down 10% and job vacancies are at a record high with colossal investment in tech.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific ask about damaging public trust was not directly addressed
Redirecting To Government Achievements
Response accuracy
Q8
Partial Answer
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Context
Petrol prices, weekly shop costs, and energy bills are rising. Labour suggested cutting VAT on energy bills three months ago.
We have a Prime Minister under police investigation, unable to lead the country when public expenses are soaring. Instead of getting on with their jobs, they are wheeled out to save his skin. Is this not a Government showing contempt for decency and honesty?
The Government can be trusted to deliver, having delivered on Brexit and a fast vaccine roll-out. Tech investment is three times that of France and twice as much as Germany.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific ask about economic issues was not directly addressed
Redirecting To Government Achievements
Response accuracy
Q9
Partial Answer
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Context
The Welsh Government has been slow on repairs, but the Prime Minister delivered record levelling-up fund investment along the Dee Valley.
Will the next phase of the levelling-up fund bring hope and prosperity to communities right across the United Kingdom?
Delighted that Conservative Government is investing massively in Clwyd South and Wales, delivering record levelling-up fund investment along the Dee Valley.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific ask about other communities was not directly addressed
Focusing On Specific Example
Response accuracy
Q10
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister is under police investigation, which has damaged public trust. The PM faced criticism for breaking his own laws.
Every moment the Prime Minister stays in office drags out the agony for families who remind him of sacrifices made and further damages his party's reputation. How much longer will Tory MPs let this go on?
Behind the scenes, I co-operate well with Scottish colleagues, and I have no intention of doing what is suggested.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific ask about duration was not addressed
Changing Subject
Response accuracy
Q11
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister is under police investigation, which has damaged public trust. The PM faced criticism for breaking his own laws.
Every moment the Prime Minister stays in office adds to a crisis caused by Tory cuts, Brexit, and soaring costs of living that have pushed millions into poverty. How much longer will Tory MPs let this go on?
I do not know who has been eating more cake, but behind the scenes I co-operate well with Scottish colleagues.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific ask about duration was not addressed
Changing Subject
Response accuracy
Q12
Partial Answer
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Context
River Wye faces pollution issues affecting its fragile ecosystem. Despite crossing the England-Wales border, there has been no effective integrated strategy from relevant agencies to address this.
The River Wye is one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe but its ecosystem is being destroyed by phosphate and other pollutants. Will the PM press the Environment Agency, Natural England, and Natural Resources Wales, along with the Welsh Government, to develop an integrated long-term strategy for cleaning up the river? Additionally, will he consider establishing a new ringfenced national rivers recovery fund using fines from water companies?
I understand the problems raised regarding pollution in the River Wye. My Environment Minister will visit the area soon, and we are urging the Welsh Government to address these issues seriously.
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Assessment & feedback
The PM did not explicitly commit to setting up a new ringfenced national rivers recovery fund as requested.
Response accuracy
Q13
Partial Answer
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Context
The cost of living is increasing in the UK, with energy costs rising significantly more in Northern Ireland due to issues with the protocol.
Families across the UK are struggling with increased living costs and energy prices. In Northern Ireland, this issue is compounded by the protocol, leading to a 27% increase in cost for goods from Great Britain and daily losses of £2.5 million, or nearly £1 billion annually. The Prime Minister's claims about uniting the nation and levelling up are undermined by these barriers.
I support the right hon. Gentleman's concerns regarding the cost of living in Northern Ireland due to the protocol, which has led to 200 businesses stopping supplies and blocked goods from entering.
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Assessment & feedback
The PM did not commit to removing the Irish Sea border or restoring Northern Ireland's place in the UK internal market as requested.
Response accuracy
Q14
Partial Answer
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Context
The Environmental Audit Committee has published a report recommending additional measures to clean up rivers, including the River Wye. One suggestion is for Defra to provide guidance to Ofwat regarding water companies' capital spending.
Has the Prime Minister seen the recent report by the Environmental Audit Committee advising on steps beyond the Environment Act 2021 to improve river health? Will he encourage his Secretary of State to give guidance to Ofwat to require more investment in water treatment?
My right hon. Friend is correct, and I welcome the report from his Committee. Our Government are committed to protecting and improving river health.
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Assessment & feedback
The PM did not explicitly commit to providing guidance to Ofwat as requested.
Response accuracy
Q15
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister faced allegations about violating lockdown rules during a celebration, causing public outrage and questioning his integrity.
Given the PM's recent birthday celebrations with singing indoors when gatherings were illegal under pandemic rules, my constituents believe he lied to them. What can you say in response?
I cannot comment on what the hon. Gentleman said regarding allegations, but I assure him that this Government will continue to deliver for the country.
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Assessment & feedback
The PM did not directly address the question of lying or provide reassurance about constituents' concerns.
Response accuracy
Q16
Partial Answer
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The Prime Minister has achieved significant milestones such as completing Brexit and establishing a robust vaccination programme during his tenure, addressing concerns over the pandemic.
Given past successes like getting Brexit done and building an effective vaccine programme to combat the pandemic, will my right hon. Friend continue delivering on priorities for constituents who voted for him in 2019?
I cannot improve upon the brilliant question by my hon. Friend, and I am committed to delivering for South East Cornwall.
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Assessment & feedback
The PM did not provide concrete commitments beyond affirming his dedication.
Response accuracy
Q17
Direct Answer
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A constituent, Mike O'Leary, was murdered two years ago, with his body desecrated in an attempt to hide the crime. This has caused significant suffering for his family and highlighted a need for justice.
Tomorrow marks the second anniversary of my constituent Mike O'Leary's murder, where his body was desecrated to cover up the crime. Will the PM meet campaigners and me to discuss establishing new offences or sentencing guidelines to reflect extra suffering faced by families of murdered victims whose bodies were concealed or desecrated?
I thank the hon. Member for bringing this case to attention, and I assure him that he will get the needed meeting at the earliest opportunity.
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Assessment & feedback
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Q18
Partial Answer
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Some children suffer from a specific form of seizure that can be managed by medical cannabis prescribed by a consultant. Only two children in the country receive this free through the NHS, while others must pay out-of-pocket.
Will the PM meet to discuss Hemel Hempstead's new hospital future? On another note, many children suffer from specific seizures treatable with medical cannabis prescribed by consultants. Currently only two children get it for free; the rest face financial hardship. Will the Prime Minister use his political will to push forward this matter so these children can receive their prescriptions?
I am delighted my right hon. Friend has secured a meeting, and I confirm we have already amended laws for doctors to prescribe cannabis products when clinically appropriate.
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Assessment & feedback
The PM did not directly address the request regarding political will or accelerating progress beyond existing law changes.
Response accuracy
Q19
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister's Government faces daily scandals including fraud, racism, and Islamophobia. The question highlights the moral character of the current administration.
Threats and intimidation, bribery and blackmail, racism and Islamophobia: that is the character of the Prime Minister's Government. Every day, the Prime Minister lurches from scandal to scandal. Meanwhile, his Government have written off £4.3 billion to fraudsters. Instead of writing off loans to fraudsters, why will the Prime Minister not write his resignation letter to the Queen?
The hon. Lady talks about racism and Islamophobia. She should look at this Government; look at the modern Conservative party. We are the party of hope and opportunity for people across this country, irrespective of race or religion. We do not care what religion people affirm. All we care about is whether they are interested in ideas of aspiration and opportunity; that is what we are about.
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Assessment & feedback
The Prime Minister did not address the resignation request.
Changed Subject To Party Values
Response accuracy
Q20
Partial Answer
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Bedfordshire police force has lost officers due to the imposition of damping in 2004. The question asks for a commitment to reforming the police funding formula.
The recruitment of 20,000 police officers is a fantastic commitment to law and order by this Government. Bedfordshire, in common with many other police forces, has lost out on about 95 officers as a result of the imposition of damping in 2004. So that we do not have to rely on one-off special grants to stay solvent, will the Prime Minister recommit to the reformation of the police funding formula in this Parliament?
My right hon. Friend the policing Minister has assured me that we will be introducing a new funding formula before the end of the Parliament, but I am pleased that Bedfordshire police have already recruited 100 additional officers as part of our uplift programme. That is part of the 11,000 more officers that this Government have put on the streets.
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Assessment & feedback
The Prime Minister did not provide a specific timeline or commitment to reforming the funding formula but acknowledged recruitment increases and future intentions.
Referencing Existing Commitments
Response accuracy
Q21
Partial Answer
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Context
Previous questions about the Government's pledge to invest in UK-built ZEBs were not answered clearly. Reports suggest Treasury cuts to bus-buying plans.
Twice in recent months, I have asked the Prime Minister about his and his Transport Secretary's commitment to delivering the Prime Minister's pledge to invest in UK-built ZEBs—zero-emission buses. I did not receive a clear answer. Worrying reports in the media of Treasury cuts to bus-buying plans highlight a conflict between the Prime Minister and his Chancellor. Is the current Chancellor denying the current Prime Minister the right to fulfil his pledge to buy 4,000 zero-emission buses?
There has never in the history of this country been such a bonanza for buses. I am personally a bus fanatic. We are putting £5 billion into buses and cycling during this Parliament, and there is £355 million of new funding for zero-emission buses—and yes of course we want to see the benefits of that funding spread right across the whole of the United Kingdom.
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Assessment & feedback
The Prime Minister did not directly address the conflict or the pledge to buy 4,000 ZEBs but referenced significant investment in buses and cycling.
Referencing Existing Commitments
Response accuracy
Q22
Partial Answer
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Securing extra health services at Queen Mary's Hospital in Sidcup is a priority for local residents. The question asks for support to deliver this investment.
Securing extra health services at Queen Mary's Hospital in Sidcup is a key priority for local residents, as it is for me, as the first home-grown MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup. Will the Prime Minister support me in delivering this extra investment for our local hospital and join me in thanking all the staff at Queen Mary's for their incredible efforts?
What a joy it is to welcome my hon. Friend to his place; the joy seems a bit confined on the Opposition Benches. I thank him for his work and support for everybody at Queen Mary's Hospital, which he and I campaigned for, for many years. Last year Queen Mary's received £800,000 of funding and I hope that it will benefit further from the £1 million funding awarded to Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust to improve technology services across its estate.
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Assessment & feedback
The Prime Minister did not commit to new investment but referenced existing support and funding received by Queen Mary's Hospital and the trust as a whole.
Referencing Existing Commitments
Response accuracy
Q23
Partial Answer
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A nurse was fined £10,000 for organising a socially distanced demonstration against the Government's pay cuts. The question criticises this disparity in treatment.
A nurse who organised a small socially distanced demonstration against this Government's pay cuts was fined £10,000. People out there are sick to the back teeth of it being one rule for the Tories and another for everyone else. The Prime Minister, for once, needs to do the decent thing—for God's sake, resign!
I do not think there was a question there. There was an invitation for me to do what of course the Labour party wants me to do, but I am not going to do it. We are going to carry on with our agenda of uniting and levelling up across the country, and they fundamentally know that they have no answer to that. We have a plan and a vision for this country; they have absolutely nothing to say, and that is the difference between our side and their side.
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Assessment & feedback
The Prime Minister did not address the resignation request but attacked Labour's policies instead.
Criticising Opposition
Response accuracy
Q24
Partial Answer
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There are real fears about a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine and Chinese aggression towards Taiwan. The question asks for confirmation that the UK will stand up forcefully against these threats.
Alongside the threat of a Russian invasion of Ukraine there are real fears of China invading Taiwan. On Sunday, Beijing staged the largest incursion into Taiwan's airspace since October. Does my right hon. Friend agree that military aggression and threat of occupation are never acceptable anywhere in the world, and will he confirm that under this Conservative Government the UK will always be at the forefront of standing up forcefully for freedom and democracy, security and stability?
I thank my hon. Friend. The Chinese military flights that have taken place near Taiwan in recent days are not conducive to peace and stability in the region. What we need is a peaceful and constructive dialogue by people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. I know that that is what my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and all colleagues are working for.
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Assessment & feedback
The Prime Minister did not confirm a firm stance against military threats but referenced ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Referencing Existing Commitments
Response accuracy