Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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The question arises from concerns over political party funding, including foreign and undisclosed donations.
I echo the sympathies expressed by the Prime Minister for recent bereavements. Corruption appears to be endemic in British political parties' donations, with allegations of embezzlement and favouritism towards opponents. Will the Prime Minister commit to restoring public faith in democracy by capping all political donations?
We will do whatever is necessary to protect our democracy from foreign influence and dirty money. We have commissioned the Rycroft review, capped overseas donations, introduced a moratorium on crypto donations, and are taking further action as set out in the King's Speech.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask for a cap on all political donations was not directly addressed; instead, generic measures were mentioned without details of an overall donation cap.
We Will Do Whatever Is Necessary
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Q2
Partial Answer
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There are ongoing delays at East Croydon station due to a bottleneck.
I am proud of Labour's action to bring Greater Thameslink Railway, Southern, and Gatwick Express into public ownership. The previous Government shelved plans for the East Croydon station improvement scheme. Will the Prime Minister look again at this scheme and support my campaign? Does he agree that by bringing railways back into public hands, we are getting back on track?
We will consider carefully the case for upgrades, including step-free access at Norwood Junction. I am proud that constituents are benefiting from rail services in public ownership and the first freeze in rail fares for 30 years.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask for a review of East Croydon station was not directly addressed; instead, general support for upgrades was mentioned without specifics.
We Will Carefully Consider The Case
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Q3
Partial Answer
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The benefits bill has risen since the current government came to office.
I express condolences regarding recent tragic events. The welfare bill has risen by £20 billion since this Government took office. Why was there no welfare reform Bill in the King's Speech?
We are improving the broken system inherited from the Conservatives: delivering a youth guarantee, rolling out work experience placements, and commissioning a review into youth unemployment. The bill increased by £88 billion under the previous Government.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about the absence of welfare reform Bill was not directly addressed; instead, general measures were mentioned without specifics on the King's Speech.
We Are Improving
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Q4
Partial Answer
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The benefits bill has increased significantly.
We need to reduce the welfare bill. The Prime Minister complains about the shadow Chancellor, but the bill rose due to pandemic spending even then. Why is there no welfare reform Bill? Is he going to cut the benefits bill?
Our measures include balancing universal credit, introducing a right to try incentive, and providing record funding on apprenticeships. The previous Government saw welfare spending soar by £88 billion.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask for cutting the benefits bill was not directly addressed; instead, general measures were mentioned without specifics on reducing costs.
Our Measures Include
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Q5
Partial Answer
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There is a need to address the rising welfare bill.
We must bring down the benefits bill. The Prime Minister criticises the shadow Chancellor but the increase was due to pandemic spending. Is he going to cut the benefits bill?
Our reforms include introducing a youth guarantee, offering support for six months if unemployed after 18 months. The Conservatives introduced a broken system which we are now reforming.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about cutting the benefits bill was not directly addressed; instead, general measures were mentioned without specifics on reducing costs.
Our Reforms Include
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Q6
Partial Answer
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The Prime Minister's repeated claims of welfare reform have not addressed the rising bill. The Timms review, commissioned by the government, stated that proposals should not be about generating further savings.
None of the proposed welfare reforms will cut the bill. Despite the opportunity to implement changes, the Government U-turned last year and abandoned plans to reduce benefits due to internal pressure from MPs. Does the Prime Minister acknowledge losing authority over his party because they oppose benefit reductions?
I am proud of our delivery: fastest G7 economy growth, net migration down by 82%, asylum backlog reduced by 46%, NHS waiting times improved faster than ever before, free school meals and childcare expanded, half a million children lifted out of poverty.
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Assessment & feedback
The Prime Minister's loss of authority over welfare reform proposals
Changed Subject To Economic Achievements
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Q7
Partial Answer
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The Prime Minister's inability to reform welfare is seen as a loss of authority among his MPs. The Welfare Secretary privately mentioned the focus on finding new taxes rather than cutting benefits, highlighting internal conflicts.
Tony Blair suggested Labour should consider working with Conservatives on welfare reforms. I repeat this offer now: will the Prime Minister be ready to cooperate?
The system they introduced is broken, and we do not need their advice on welfare. Our focus should be on helping people change their lives rather than what benefits are entitled. We have delivered more rights for renters, workers, and lifted half a million children out of poverty.
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Assessment & feedback
Cooperation with Conservatives on welfare reforms
Changed Subject To Labour'S Achievements
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Q8
Partial Answer
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Unemployment has risen monthly since the new government took office. The Prime Minister's inability to reform welfare is attributed to a lack of support from his MPs, suggesting he may not be in power long-term.
The Prime Minister lacks the votes for reform due to opposition within his party. There is no genuine solution, as benefits increase while taxes and employment rates decline. The real issue is that Labour will always seek ways to tax more to fund benefits.
For 14 years, Conservatives broke our welfare system, lost control over borders and economy. Our Labour Government is delivering change: workers' rights upgraded, Renters' Rights Act passed, NHS funding increased, fastest G7 growth recorded, half a million children lifted out of poverty.
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Assessment & feedback
Prime Minister's authority issues or party DNA problems
Changed Subject To Labour Achievements
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Q9
Partial Answer
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Ninety-seven homes in Coalsnaughton were evacuated due to ground movement, causing emotional and financial stress. The Mining Remediation Authority is conducting an eight-week investigation.
Residents of 97 homes have been evacuated due to ground movement in Coalsnaughton. An MRA investigation will determine responsibility but my constituents need immediate support. Will the Prime Minister commit to working with the Scottish Government and Clackmannanshire council for a fair resolution?
Daily investigations are being conducted by the MRA to find answers swiftly. The Energy Minister is in touch with MSPs and will ensure updates on next steps, working with the council to support residents.
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Assessment & feedback
No clear commitment to specific support measures or timelines for resolution
General Statement About Ongoing Investigations
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Q10
Partial Answer
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Henry Nowak's murder has sparked national debate over the adequacy of police response and handling. The case has been highlighted by victims' families seeking reform.
The murder of Henry Nowak was an evil crime made worse by the lies of the killer and the police response. Outside court, his father called for knife crime to be treated as a national emergency. Does the Prime Minister agree that victims deserve a politics where we solve these problems together?
I join the right hon. Gentleman in paying tribute to the 17 people who lost their lives in the heatwave, many of whom were young—each of them tragic. We send our condolences to their families. On Henry Nowak's case, I thank him for his approach and stress that political leaders must bring people together instead of seeking division.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific agreement on treating knife crime as a national emergency
Under Review
Political Leader Roles
Response accuracy
Q11
Partial Answer
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Tony Blair has made comments on the UK's approach to foreign policy, including relations with Trump and Europe. The PM is seen as following Blair's advice.
Does the Prime Minister agree that unless he changes course, he will be remembered for being neither radical nor sensible?
The right hon. Gentleman rather spoiled what was quite a good gag. I am surprised he has not done more to welcome the savings we are delivering for family fun days out this summer.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific concern about Blair's criticism and PM's legacy
Changing Subject
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Q12
Partial Answer
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Henry Nowak's death has raised serious questions about the fairness of policing, particularly in relation to accusations of racism.
Will the PM join me in paying tribute to Henry's family? Will he also call for recognition of the mistakes made by the police?
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important case. My thoughts are with Henry's family, as are those of the whole House and country. There are lessons to be learned from accusations of racism in decision-making.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to recognize police mistakes
Lessons Need To Be Learned
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Q13
Partial Answer
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There are concerns that certain ethnic groups receive different treatment from the police, leading to a loss of public trust.
Will the Prime Minister take action to end two-tier policing where different ethnic groups are treated differently by the police?
I do not believe that there is two-tier policing in this country. I am shocked that the hon. Gentleman pretends to respect Henry's family and then acts in this way.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to address racial discrimination in police practices
Attacking Questioner
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Q14
Partial Answer
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Holly Woodcock, a constituent of Mr. Francis, died under suspicious circumstances abroad with her family seeking more information on the case from the Foreign Office.
Will the Prime Minister commit to raising the matter of Holly's case with his French counterparts at the highest level?
I thank my hon. Friend for raising this case and express my condolences to Holly's family. The ambassador has raised the case, and further steps can be taken by my hon. Friend Stephen Doughty.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to raise issue at highest level
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q15
Partial Answer
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Last month, Welsh voters elected a Plaid Cymru Government with a mandate for fairness and hope. The government seeks to secure funding owed from High Speed 2, a new financial settlement that reflects Wales' needs, and more powers over natural resources.
Welsh voters have chosen a Plaid Cymru Government focused on fairness and hope, demanding funding recovery from High Speed 2, a fair financial arrangement for Wales, and enhanced governance over its natural resources. Will the Prime Minister consider moving towards action that fulfills the democratic aspirations of Welsh citizens?
I thank the right hon. Member for her question. As I hope she knows, I did have a call with the First Minister of Wales just two weeks ago and made it clear that I and this Government will work constructively with the First Minister and the Government in Wales, because that is the right thing to do to deliver for Wales.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions or commitments towards securing funding owed from High Speed 2, a new financial settlement reflecting Wales' needs, and enhanced governance over natural resources were not addressed
Response accuracy
Q16
Partial Answer
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A constituent in Wouldham, a village in Chatham and Aylesford, is suffering from memory loss and his case highlights concerns about NHS funding. The leader of Reform UK has called for an insurance-based system for the NHS.
My constituents are concerned about clarity on future Kent and Medway NHS funding following a distressing case of memory loss brought to my attention by a constituent in Wouldham. What can be done to ensure this clarity, especially concerning the leader of Reform UK who has called for an insurance-based system for our NHS?
My hon. Friend makes a powerful point. The Reform leader wants everyone to forget that he called for our NHS to be replaced with an insurance-based system—he might want to jot it down to jog his memory. Then he said that if people can pay, they should pay for NHS treatment. You cannot trust Reform with our NHS—the only way to protect it is to vote Labour.
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Assessment & feedback
Providing clarity on future Kent and Medway NHS funding was not addressed
Criticising Opposition Party
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Q17
Partial Answer
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The campaign 'VAT's the Problem' has been launched, aiming to lower VAT rates for hospitality businesses. Industry leaders from various locations have met to discuss the issue.
Tom Kerridge and UKHospitality have started a 'VAT's the Problem' campaign highlighting how 20% VAT on hospitality is detrimental to business survival. Yesterday, industry bodies, chefs Matt Tebbutt and Thomasina Myers, and leaders from Manchester, Liverpool, London, and Kent met discussing this issue. Do you agree that VAT is problematic? Will you match your candidate's Makerfield pledge of reducing VAT in line with European rates?
I thank the hon. Member for her question. I recognise the challenges she identifies. That is why we are permanently lowering business rates for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses. Every pub will get 15% off its new business rates bill, and bills will be frozen in real terms for a further two years. In relation to VAT, you will see that we are offering support by cutting VAT on children's meals in restaurants—particularly over the summer period—with those savings set out two weeks ago by the Chancellor.
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Assessment & feedback
Reducing VAT rates for hospitality businesses as promised was not addressed
Offering Unrelated Support
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Q18
Partial Answer
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University student suicides are increasing, with about 160 cases annually. There is currently no established duty of care on universities to protect the mental health and welfare of their students.
Every year, about 160 university students commit suicide. That is more than three every week, yet there is no established duty of care on universities to protect the health, safety and welfare of their students. It is not about creating excessive burdens on universities, but about requiring them to take reasonable steps to prevent injury or harm to their students when the risk is reasonably foreseeable. Will the Prime Minister meet me to discuss the issue so we can do all we can to prevent our young people from dying at university through suicide?
Any death from suicide is a tragedy, as everybody across this House will know. We are bringing together students, bereaved families, universities and the NHS to strengthen the mental health support provided to students. We have also appointed a student support champion to drive improvement across our universities. The relevant Minister will be happy to discuss that and other matters with my hon. Friend.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to meeting Warinder Juss specifically, only said the relevant minister would be willing to discuss it.
Response accuracy
Q19
Partial Answer
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The political landscape in Havering changed dramatically after the election, with no Labour or Conservative councillors elected. The questioner seeks action regarding the promise made by Wes Streeting to deliver an accident and emergency unit at Queen's Hospital.
I wonder if the Prime Minister has had the chance to study the election results in Havering: zero Labour councillors were elected in Romford, zero Conservative councillors were elected across Havering for the first time since 1964 and it is the first Reform UK London borough. That shows people's disillusionment with the political establishment. In his final days as Prime Minister, can he do something for the people of Romford and give us the accident and emergency unit at Queen's hospital that the right hon. Member for Ilford North (Wes Streeting) said he would deliver, but failed to do?
We put record investment into the NHS to clear up the mess that the hon. Gentleman and others left behind. Since he brings up elections, I have studied the Reform candidate for Makerfield: a self-professed sexist who said women who get an abortion do it for “vanity purposes”, who encouraged people not to get the covid vaccine and who said Russia was “within its rights” to invade Crimea. Reform has nothing to offer but grievance and division yet again.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address the question about the A&E unit, instead criticized Reform UK candidate for Makerfield.
Response accuracy
Q20
Direct Answer
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John Kear, a former England, Wales and Challenge Cup-winning coach in rugby league, passed away suddenly on his way north after commentating at the Challenge Cup final.
I associate myself with the Prime Minister's comments on Henry Nowak and the calls for calm over division. The rugby league family lost a giant last week. John Kear, the former England, Wales and challenge cup-winning coach died suddenly on Sunday afternoon on his journey north after commentating on the challenge cup final at Wembley the previous day. After playing for Castleford, his local team, he moved to teaching and coaching for a total of 700 matches with nine clubs, and his career included famous underdog challenge cup wins with Sheffield Eagles in 1998 and Hull FC in 2005. John loved, and in turn was loved by, his sport. Will the Prime Minister join me in paying tribute to John and sending condolences to his wife Dawn and his family and friends?
I pay tribute to John. We were all deeply sad to hear of his passing. He was a remarkable athlete and coach, and an energetic and enthusiastic champion of his sport. He will be missed by supporters across the country and my thoughts—all our thoughts—are with his wife Dawn, his family and his friends at this sad time.
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Q21
Partial Answer
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Women whose children suffered avoidable harm due to continued use of sodium valproate during pregnancy have urged the government for a redress scheme.
Yesterday, I spoke to women whose children were harmed after they continued taking sodium valproate during pregnancy. A Government Department commissioned a report on how to provide a redress scheme but did not introduce one yet. When will this Government respond to the Hughes report and establish a redress scheme for affected families?
We recognise the harm caused by sodium valproate. The Minister for Public Health is dedicated to this issue, and I want a full response published as quickly as possible, keeping the hon. Lady updated on its progress.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline or commitment to establish a redress scheme was not given
Response accuracy
Q22
Partial Answer
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In Scotland, bus manufacturing jobs are being lost as overseas manufacturers win more orders. There is concern about the cyber-security of Chinese buses.
The 10-year bus pipeline shows demand for zero emission buses will double by 2030, but in Scotland, jobs are being lost due to overseas competition. Will the Prime Minister designate bus manufacturing as a sector critical to national security?
My hon. Friend champions the Scottish bus workforce. Our pipeline will provide certainty for UK manufacturers, and we are working closely with the industry to support them.
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Assessment & feedback
No commitment on designating bus manufacturing as a national security sector was provided
Response accuracy
Q23
Partial Answer
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Regular hate marches on streets have led to attacks and arson against Jewish businesses, synagogues, individuals, and homes. There is a call for action against overseas students committing antisemitic acts.
I welcome the Prime Minister's commitment to combat antisemitism but want real action: expel students from overseas who commit antisemitic acts; proscribe the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps; close down Iran-sponsored charities spreading antisemitism; teach children about Holocaust and Israel's founding. Will he take these actions?
We are investing in security for Jewish communities, tackling antisemitism within universities with £7 million funding, and bringing in powers to clamp down on malign state activity. Further steps will be outlined.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific commitment on proscribing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or closing down Iran-sponsored charities was provided
Response accuracy
Q24
Partial Answer
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Henry Nowak's family called for peace and safety after his death, but violence erupted on the streets of Southampton following a court case. Police officers were injured.
Less than 48 hours ago, the family of Henry Nowak stood at Southampton Crown Court calling for change without division or hatred. However, violent incidents occurred last night including criminal damage to homes and injuries to police officers. Does the Prime Minister agree that these actions are contrary to what Henry's family wanted?
The attacks directed towards police officers last night were completely unacceptable. The hon. Friend's discussion about impact was noted, but no further specific commitments on actions taken.
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Assessment & feedback
No new commitment to action against violence was provided
Response accuracy
Q25
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The government promised a new hospital in Hampshire but there is no guarantee it will materialize. Winchester's current hospital has repair backlog issues.
Despite promises of hypothetical hospitals, the Prime Minister should fix our actual hospital in Winchester that has rainwater leaking into clinical areas and a huge repair backlog. Will he commit to fixing Winchester Hospital?
As local integrated care boards take decisions based on evidence and engagement with patients, reorganisation is a matter for them. Patients benefit from £450 million investment in urgent and emergency care capacity.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific commitment to fix Winchester Hospital's current issues was provided
Response accuracy
Q26
Partial Answer
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36% of pupils in Scarborough and Whitby achieve grade 5 or above in both English and maths GCSEs, highlighting a need for targeted intervention.
Does the Prime Minister agree that Mission Coastal has potential to deliver transformational impact for young people in deprived coastal communities like London Challenge did, as only Labour can provide such bold interventions?
Mission Coastal will break the link between background and success by offering mentoring, career support, and enrichment opportunities to disadvantaged children.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific commitment on implementation timeline or additional funding was provided
Response accuracy
Q27
Partial Answer
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The MP noted concerns about housing targets in her constituency, with local infrastructure strained and new homes unaffordable. A constituent named Hannah expressed that she cannot dream of buying a home.
This Government's top-down housing targets mean communities are seeing huge-scale development without sufficient infrastructure. New builds cost over £500,000. Will the Prime Minister review these targets and come speak to constituents about their impact?
We have invested £39 billion in social and affordable homes, prioritising brownfield land. We must build more communities with strong infrastructure, but the hon. Lady's party consistently votes against planning reforms that allow those homes to be built.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask for reviewing targets was not addressed; instead, emphasis on past investment and criticism of opposition.
Response accuracy
Q28
Direct Answer
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The MP welcomed the confirmation that all eligible black men would be invited to the Transform trial for prostate cancer screening, noting a doubled risk of diagnosis and death among black men.
Does the Prime Minister agree that our NHS was founded by Labour to be there for everyone equally? Targeting support based on higher risk is equality in practice.
This programme is England's first targeted cancer screening programme. We are also funding a major expansion of research and treatment, backed by £20 million, to help men at the highest risk. More cancer patients are now being diagnosed on time.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy