Commons Sense

House of Commons · PMQs

PMQs

Wednesday 19 October 2022 · 30 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 9 Partly answered 17 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Prime Minister apologizes for economic mistakes but keeps her job to implement measures like the energy price guarantee.
  • Prime Minister agrees to abolish top-down housing targets, allowing local decision-making on homes and infrastructure.
  • Prime Minister claims readiness to take tough decisions and protect working people's interests, unlike Labour's approach.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Justin Madders Lab Ellesmere Port and Bromborough
Economy
Context

The Prime Minister's recent Budget has led to a financial crisis, causing increased mortgage payments for many people.

Question

Given the economic chaos caused by her Budget, why did the previous Chancellor lose his job but she kept hers?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I have been very clear that I am sorry and that I have made mistakes. The right thing to do is to make changes, which I have done, and get on with delivering for the British people by implementing measures like the energy price guarantee.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address why she kept her job while the previous Chancellor lost his

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Q2 Laurence Robertson Con
Housing Local Government
Context

The government's top-down approach to setting housing targets is criticised.

Question

Does the Prime Minister agree that local people and councils should decide on housing needs and locations? If so, will she abolish the top-down approach and reduce Planning Inspectorate powers?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

My hon. Friend is right; we will abolish top-down housing targets, allowing local people to decide about homes and infrastructure without Whitehall intervention.

Answered
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Q3 Keir Starmer Lab Holborn and St Pancras
Context

The Prime Minister has been criticised for her handling of economic policy.

Question

A book is being written about the PM's time in office. Is it titled 'Christmas' or will be released by Christmas?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I have been in office for just under two months and delivered key measures like the energy price guarantee. I am prepared to take tough decisions unlike my predecessor.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not clarify book title or release date, instead focusing on her record

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Q4 Keir Starmer Lab Holborn and St Pancras
Democracy & Elections Standards & Ethics
Context

The Prime Minister has been criticised for lack of responsiveness.

Question

Last week, the PM ignored questions but this week adopted Labour's plan. How can she be held accountable?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I am prepared to take tough decisions and front up unlike my predecessor who did nothing for businesses or long-term support.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address her accountability, instead criticised Labour's lack of policy

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Q5 Keir Starmer Lab Holborn and St Pancras
Economy
Context

The Prime Minister promised no spending cuts but now the Chancellor has announced them.

Question

Last week, the PM promised no spending reductions. Now there are cuts. What is her explanation?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

Spending will go up next year and the following year but we need to get value for taxpayers' money unlike Labour's unaffordable pledges.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not explain policy change, instead criticised Labour's spending

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Q6 Keir Starmer Lab Holborn and St Pancras
Economy
Context

The Prime Minister's economic policies have led to increased mortgage payments.

Question

Millions face higher mortgage repayments due to the PM's actions. What is her response?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We are honest about economic reality unlike Labour, who refuse to condemn strikers and protect working people's interests.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address higher mortgage payments directly, instead criticised Labour

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Q7 Keir Starmer Lab Holborn and St Pancras
Economy
Context

The Prime Minister's economic policies have led to an economic crisis.

Question

Millions face higher mortgage payments due to the PM's actions. She apologised but is still in office. Why trust Conservatives with economy?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We are on the side of working people and will legislate to protect railways unlike Labour who back strikers.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address economic trust, instead criticised Labour's stance on strikes

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Q8 Keir Starmer Lab Holborn and St Pancras
Economy
Context

The Prime Minister's economic promises have failed to materialise.

Question

Her policies led to economic destruction. Why is she still in office with no achievements?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I am a fighter and not a quitter. I have acted in the national interest to ensure economic stability.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address her continued position, instead focused on actions taken for stability

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Q9 James Grundy
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

The local economy is expected to benefit from the Leigh Centurions' promotion, while Ella Toone from Tyldesley has contributed to the success of the women's Euro's team.

Question

Will my right hon. Friend congratulate Leigh Centurions on their recent promotion to the super league? Furthermore, will she guarantee that our excellent women's Euros team, including Ella Toone, will receive a No. 10 reception?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I join my hon. Friend in congratulating Leigh Centurions on their return to the super league. I had the huge privilege of meeting the Lionesses last week—a fantastic team—and we will host a Downing Street reception as soon as their training programme makes them available.

Answered
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Q10 Ian Blackford SNP
Economy Benefits & Welfare
Context

There have been multiple U-turns by the government, leading to concerns about state pension increases.

Question

Can she perhaps turn to her Chancellor right now, get permission to make another U-turn and commit to raising the state pension at the rate of inflation?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I honestly do not know what the right hon. Gentleman is talking about. We have been clear in our manifesto that we will maintain the triple lock. I am completely committed to it and so is the Chancellor.

Answered
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Q11 Ian Blackford SNP
Economy Scotland
Context

The Prime Minister's approval ratings are low, and there is concern about the Scottish economy due to separatist policies.

Question

It is not surprising that the Prime Minister's approval ratings are collapsing with an answer like that. She has just thrown 12 million pensioners under the Tory bus, and it is not just pensioners feeling the pain. In the last week alone—[Interruption.]

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I do not think the right hon. Gentleman can take yes for an answer. I have been clear that we are protecting the triple lock on pensions. If he is concerned about the economy, why does he continue to advocate for separatism, which would plunge the Scottish economy into chaos?

Not addressed: Economic impact of pensioners facing cuts

How: Changing Subject, Attacking Opposition

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Q12 Gary Sambrook
Housing
Context

There is a strain on GP and dentist appointments due to large-scale home development.

Question

Does my right hon. Friend agree that more needs to be done in the planning process to ensure that, when we have large-scale developments, we have more capacity in those vital services?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

My hon. Friend is absolutely right. When we build new houses, we need to make sure there are GP surgeries, schools and infrastructure. That is why we are introducing a new infrastructure levy to make sure that more of the money from developers goes on supporting local communities.

Answered
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Q13 Edward Davey Lib Dem Kingston and Surbiton
NHS Economy Benefits & Welfare
Context

Family carers are struggling with the high costs of living, particularly in food and heating.

Question

Millions of family carers have been forced to cut back on food and heating. One told Carers UK: “My son is incontinent… if we don't wash him in warm water several times a day this will cause him to physically decline. So how do we pay for the gas to heat the water if we are currently at max budget?” Vulnerable people and carers are struggling enough already in this cost of living crisis, so will the Prime Minister guarantee that support for the vulnerable, including carer's allowance, will rise by at least today's inflation rate of 10.1%?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

People are struggling. It is difficult at the moment. That is why we put in place the energy price guarantee to make sure the typical household is not paying more than £2,500. It is why we have supplied an extra £1,200 of support to the most vulnerable. I can assure the hon. Gentleman that we will always support the most vulnerable.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Guaranteeing a specific increase in carer's allowance

How: General Principles

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Q14 Fay Jones
Defence
Context

Brecon and Radnorshire has a proud military footprint, including the Cambrian Patrol exercise.

Question

Will the Prime Minister join me in congratulating all who took part, not least the team of Gurkha soldiers from the Infantry Battle School in Brecon, who took home a coveted gold medal, further cementing Brecon's special place in the UK armed forces?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I join my hon. Friend in thanking everybody at Brecon barracks, which organises Exercise Cambrian Patrol each year. It is a world-class training exercise. I congratulate Brecon's Gurkha soldiers on their fantastic achievement of a gold medal—well done!

Answered
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Q15 Philippa Whitford SNP
Economy
Context

The Prime Minister has caused significant damage to the economy, leading to questions about her leadership.

Question

It took just five working days for the Prime Minister to crash the pound, damage pension funds and send people's mortgage costs spiralling. Her new Chancellor may have reversed almost all of her policies, but the damage has been done, and we now face yet another round of Tory cuts and austerity. I would like to ask the Prime Minister and those sitting behind her: why is she still at the Dispatch Box, and when will voters get their say on this disastrous Government?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We are facing very, very difficult economic times. I took the decision I had to in the interests of economic stability. What is important is that we work together, including with the SNP, to get through this winter and grow the economy.

Not addressed: Why she is still at the Dispatch Box and voter input timeline

How: Broad Statements, No Concrete Actions

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Q16 David Jones Con
Northern Ireland Brexit
Context

The Prime Minister has secured the passage of the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill through the House without amendment before the summer recess.

Question

Can she confirm that it is the Government's intention that the Bill should remain unamended, and, in particular, that the European Court of Justice should have no jurisdiction in any part of the United Kingdom?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I am completely committed to the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill. It deals with the very specific issues we face in Northern Ireland, the free flow of trade and making sure that the people of Northern Ireland are able to benefit from being part of the United Kingdom. I can tell my right hon. Friend that any negotiations will reflect the same position that is in the protocol Bill.

Answered
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Q17 Meg Hillier Labour (Co-op)
Economy
Context

Recent economic events have caused market instability and public concern about the government's handling of the economy.

Question

The MP noted that recent policy decisions have led to chaos in financial markets, damaging the economy. She questioned why backbenchers or the general public should have confidence in a Prime Minister whose policies are causing such issues. She specifically asked for reasons to support the Prime Minister given these circumstances.

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

We are facing difficult times economically. The PM acknowledged past mistakes but highlighted actions taken such as implementing the energy price guarantee, reversing the national insurance rise, and addressing railway disruptions caused by militant trade unions.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The questioner asked for reasons to maintain confidence in the Prime Minister's leadership amid economic challenges; instead, she acknowledged difficulties but focused on positive actions without directly addressing why confidence should be maintained.

How: Acknowledged Mistakes But Emphasized Positive Actions

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Q18 John Baron Con
Economy Benefits & Welfare
Context

The MP expressed concern over recent events impacting government spending, suggesting a need to retain compassion in political decisions.

Question

The MP encouraged the Prime Minister to maintain compassion in economic decisions, particularly regarding the link between inflation and benefits. He asked if she would commit to doing so.

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

The PM confirmed that the Conservative government aims to protect vulnerable individuals through measures like the energy price guarantee. She assured the MP that such protections will continue into year two, though did not explicitly commit to maintaining inflation-linking for benefits.

Partly answered

Not addressed: While acknowledging efforts to support vulnerable people, the PM avoided a direct commitment to maintaining inflation-linking for benefits.

How: Acknowledged Efforts But Did Not Commit

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Q19 Stewart McDonald SNP
Ukraine
Context

The MP expressed concern about public fatigue and the potential impact on support for Ukraine amid economic challenges.

Question

The MP warned of 'Ukraine fatigue' amidst rising prices and other financial pressures. He questioned if the Prime Minister's leadership was undermining support for Ukraine, asking her to commit to continued economic, military, and political support for Ukraine.

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

The PM committed to ensuring military support equals that provided in previous years. She stated that Ukraine can win with continued backing, but did not provide specifics or commitments beyond this.

Partly answered

Not addressed: While affirming the commitment to military support, the PM avoided detailed commitments on economic and political support for Ukraine.

How: Acknowledged Military Support Without Details

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Q20 Mark Menzies Con
Energy Environment
Context

The MP asked about the transparency and independence of measuring local consent for fracking.

Question

The MP thanked the Prime Minister for sticking to her words on giving communities final say over fracking but questioned how such a decision would be measured independently. He requested assurance that fracking companies would not assess local consent and that local views would be respected.

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

The PM agreed with the MP's concerns and promised a consultation on a robust system for measuring local consent. She mentioned considering regional Mayors, local authorities, parishes, and affected individuals.

Partly answered

Not addressed: While agreeing to consult on an independent system, she did not give specific assurances regarding the independence or transparency of such a process.

How: Promised Consultation Without Guarantees

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Q21 Kate Osborne Lab Jarrow and Gateshead East
Business & Trade
Context

The MP criticized privatisation efforts, citing issues in the NHS blood service and concerns about Royal Mail's profitability versus public service obligations.

Question

The MP argued that privatisation does not work for services like healthcare or postal services. She noted Royal Mail's profit while universal service obligation is at risk. She asked if the PM would launch an inquiry into Royal Mail's management.

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

The PM stated focus on delivering an efficient postal service, dismissing the question as ideological rather than practical.

Not addressed: Instead of addressing whether to launch an inquiry into Royal Mail's management, she dismissed the question entirely.

How: Dismissed As Ideological

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Q22 Duncan Baker
Education Employment
Context

The MP announced a new apprenticeship scheme in his constituency to drive growth and jobs for young people.

Question

The MP introduced his '100 Apprenticeships Challenge' aimed at driving 100 new apprenticeships across North Norfolk. He thanked various stakeholders involved, including local councils, the Department for Work and Pensions, and highlighted Julia Nix's role in coordinating this effort.

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

The PM thanked Julia Nix and her team for their work on creating apprenticeship opportunities. She acknowledged the importance of such schemes for learning and gaining experience, citing 5.1 million apprenticeships created since 2010.

Answered

Not addressed: null

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Q23 Nick Smith Lab Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney
Standards & Ethics
Context

The MP raised concerns about the Prime Minister's chief of staff having a history of lobbying for controversial clients.

Question

The MP questioned the wisdom of having someone with a background in lobbying at the centre of government, referencing recent scandals involving the chief of staff's lobbying activities.

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

The PM stated that all appointments in Downing Street are checked through proper propriety and ethics processes, ensuring impartiality.

Partly answered

Not addressed: While acknowledging checks on appointments, she did not address whether having a lobbyist was wise or appropriate for the role.

How: Acknowledged Process Without Addressing Wisdom

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Q24 Andrew Mitchell Con Sutton Coldfield
Context

The MP referenced a previous commitment made when the government first came into office to avoid balancing books on the backs of the poorest people in the world.

Question

The MP reminded the Prime Minister of a promise they both made not to balance the international development budget on the backs of the world's poorest. He asked for confirmation that this pledge remains.

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

The PM paid tribute to Andrew Mitchell's work as International Development Secretary and noted rebalancing aid towards humanitarian efforts, women, and girls. She did not provide a direct confirmation regarding the specific pledge.

Partly answered

Not addressed: While noting recent aid focus areas, she avoided confirming whether the previous commitment remained intact.

How: Acknowledged Past Work Without Committing To Current Pledge

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Q25 Sarah Owen Lab Luton North
Economy Democracy & Elections
Context

Sarah Owen references the previous Prime Minister being forced out due to controversial policies and economic instability, questioning what current issues will lead to Elizabeth Truss stepping down.

Question

What is this Prime Minister getting the boot for—her plan that crashed the economy or forcing fracking on communities that do not want it? Will she do the decent thing and go, and call a general election?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I have taken responsibility and I have made the right decision in the interest of the country's economic stability.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Call for a general election and reason for stepping down

How: Took Responsibility

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Q26 Steve Brine Con
NHS
Context

The Health and Social Care Secretary has set out plans to deal with the backlog of treatments caused by the pandemic. Steve Brine asks for assurance on specific elective hubs promised in Winchester constituency.

Question

Can the Prime Minister reassure me that the Government are committed to the series of elective hubs that we have promised, including at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in my Winchester constituency?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

My right hon. Friend the Health and Social Care Secretary has set out her plans to deliver on dealing with the covid backlog, including tackling it and making sure people get timely GP appointments.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific commitment to elective hubs at Royal Hampshire County Hospital

How: Continue To Work

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Q27 Barry Gardiner Lab Brent West
Mental Health
Context

Since the mini-Budget, Barry Gardiner notes that many constituents face mental anguish and despair. He asks what steps will be taken to improve mental health services in response.

Question

What will she now do to improve the mental healthcare for people in this country, so that the anguish that they face in the coming months is properly responded to and dealt with?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

My right hon. Friend the Health and Social Care Secretary has set out a clear plan of how we are going to deal with the backlog created by covid, including improving services in hospitals, including mental health services.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific measures for addressing post-mini-Budget mental healthcare issues

How: Dealing With Backlog

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Q28 Helen Whately Con Faversham and Mid Kent
NHS Social Care
Context

Helen Whately raises the issue of unlimited care costs for people living with dementia, asking for assurance on social care reform.

Question

Can my right hon. Friend assure me that she is committed to social care reform to end that worry and relieve pressure on the NHS?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

Yes, we are committed to social care reform. We need to deal with those issues.

Answered
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Q29 Stella Creasy Labour (Co-op)
Brexit
Context

Stella Creasy questions the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill, asking why it will abolish protections on pension payouts, free Olympics viewing rights, and airline consumer laws.

Question

How is any of the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill in the British interest?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

I think we have yet another example of somebody who does not want to support the British public's decision to leave the European Union in 2016. Is it not quite incredible that, six years after people voted to leave the European Union, there are people who object to taking EU law off our statute books?

Not addressed: Public interest concern of the bill

How: Democrat

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Q30 Richard Graham Con
Democracy & Elections
Context

Thirty years since the Westminster Foundation for Democracy was established to support democracy around the world. Richard Graham invites members of Parliament to attend an event celebrating this milestone.

Question

Does the Prime Minister agree that this is a vital contribution by our Government and our people to democracy around the world, and will she encourage Members around the House to join us this evening?

Answer from Elizabeth Truss

The Westminster Foundation for Democracy does a fantastic job. I do encourage colleagues from all sides of the House to attend the event tonight.

Answered
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