Topical Questions

2026-06-25

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Munira Wilson Lib Dem
Twickenham
Context
The MP highlights constituents facing delays in getting their civil service pension scheme payments, including a single mother with a terminal cancer diagnosis.
I have heard from a number of constituents who worked for the civil service and have faced delays in getting their pension scheme payments, including a single mum who was forced to take early retirement due to a terminal cancer diagnosis. She told me that she just wanted to get her affairs in order for her children before she died. I have recently heard that her payments have started again, but that is not the case for many other constituents. Will the Minister tell my constituents what he is doing to help them, especially those facing hardship?
The hon. Lady is absolutely right that the situation is completely unacceptable. I offer my support to her and her constituents in any way that I can. When I met representatives from Capita last week, they said that they want to under-promise and over-deliver. Clearly Capita has failed badly at that, but it has until the end of June to ensure that its services are delivered at an acceptable level. If it fails at that, we will use all options available. We are holding it robustly to account. Capita initially promised that all death in service and ill health cases were resolved, but that is not the case, and I am happy to take up the cases the hon. Lady mentions.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Direct Answer
Joe Powell Lab
Kensington and Bayswater
Context
The MP brings up a case involving Nigel Farage's lobbying for cryptocurrency policy changes that would benefit his personal benefactor.
I thank the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister for asking the Ethics and Integrity Commission to review lobbying, disclosure and access to Government. Does he agree that given that has reported that the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage) lobbied for changes in cryptocurrency policy that would massively benefit Reform's biggest donor and, in fact, his £5 million personal benefactor, any look at strengthening the rules should include a look at lobbying cases involving the Bank of England?
I wonder where the hon. Member for Clacton (Nigel Farage) is? [Interruption.] Not in Clacton, I am told, Mr Speaker. I thank my hon. Friend the Member for Kensington and Bayswater (Joe Powell) for his question, and his continued support for the Government's efforts to improve ethics and integrity in public life. The House knows that trust in politics is important, and that we have more work to do. That is why we have important rules about conflicts of interest, and why we must declare those conflicts of interest on the record, and then not lobby on behalf of donors or others who have sought to put money into our campaigns or other personal interests. The leader of Reform UK has said, “it's literally none of your business” in answer to questions about the £5 million crypto-donation. I am afraid that it is in the interests of the public, and he needs to answer questions about it. If he is acting on behalf of donors and asking questions in return for money, there should be consequences.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Alex Burghart Con
Brentwood and Ongar
Context
The MP predicts this may be the last time he interacts with the right hon. Gentleman due to upcoming leadership changes.
This may be the last time I come up against the right hon. Gentleman during parliamentary questions. When we first faced each other nine months ago, I said that he was one of the most able performers in Government, and I still believe that to be the case. I think there will come a time when his party regrets the fact that he did not stand in this leadership contest. I think he would have lost—
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his kind comments. He says that this might be our last time together at the Dispatch Box; I do not know where he is planning on going, but I hope to be back here in due course. He asks a very pertinent question. I know that any Prime Minister takes their responsibilities to the House seriously, and I am sure that the next Prime Minister will be at the Dispatch Box at the earliest opportunity.
Assessment & feedback
The MP avoided discussing his own future by redirecting attention to a new PM taking over.
Redirects
Response accuracy
Q4 Partial Answer
Alex Burghart Con
Brentwood and Ongar
Context
The MP inquires about the new PM's plans to answer questions before the summer break.
I am very glad to be the one to break the news that the right hon. Gentleman wants to keep his current job and not move to another role. This is a serious question. Does the right hon. Gentleman think it would be appropriate for the new Prime Minister to answer questions before the summer break? If so, will he make representations to the next Prime Minister?
I understand the premise of the hon. Gentleman's question, and I am sure the new Prime Minister will agree with the sentiment. We are waiting for confirmation of the timetable for the Labour party's election of a new leader. The sitting dates of this House have already been confirmed, but I know the new Prime Minister will want to come to the Dispatch Box at the earliest opportunity.
Assessment & feedback
The PM avoided specifics on timing by referring to ongoing leadership elections and timelines.
Waiting For Confirmation Timelines
Response accuracy
Q5 Partial Answer
Janet Daby Lab
Lewisham East
Context
The MP seeks to understand what actions are being taken regarding promotion and pay inequalities within the civil service.
I know the Minister is committed to supporting civil servants during relocation. I also know she is aware that there are employment inequalities in the civil service, in particular around promotion and pay. Will she say what more she is doing about this issue, and will she agree to meet me?
of course I would be happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss that matter. We will be launching the national school of government, which will ensure that we have a civil service fit for purpose, not only for the current challenges but for the challenges of the future.
Assessment & feedback
The issue was addressed indirectly by mentioning future initiatives without providing specific details on existing inequalities.
Future Initiatives
Response accuracy
Q6 Partial Answer
Lisa Smart Lib Dem
Hazel Grove
Context
The MP inquires about a new PM's potential plans for implementing proportional representation.
We will soon have our seventh Prime Minister in 10 years. My commiserations go to the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, who I see has bowed out of the race gracefully—I am sure he has many irons in the fire. The right hon. Member for Makerfield (Andy Burnham) is known to be committed to proportional representation. What plans does the Cabinet Office have to enable any new Prime Minister to move quickly on making our voting system fit for purpose—if he does not change his mind? Has that come up in access talks?
I thank the hon. Lady for taking the opportunity to pursue further Liberal Democrat policies; she is quite right to do so. She will know of the constitutional principles that mean we cannot bind our successors. I am sure that whoever is in the relevant ministerial role will happily answer that question in due course.
Assessment & feedback
The issue was avoided by discussing procedural limitations rather than substantive plans.
Constitutional Principles Procedural
Response accuracy
Q7 Partial Answer
Johanna Baxter Lab
Paisley and Renfrewshire South
Context
Since the current government was elected, the Barnett formula has seen a record-breaking increase in funding for Scotland. This is important for constituents of Paisley and Renfrewshire South.
The Barnett formula delivers greatly to my constituency. Since the government's election, there has been the highest uplift in funding for the Scottish Government ever recorded. Does my right hon. Friend agree that this mechanism ensures a fair share of public spending? Can he confirm it will continue?
The Barnett formula plays an important role in ensuring fairness across all UK nations. However, the Scottish Government must spend funds effectively; they have failed to do so under SNP leadership.
Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm the future of the Barnett formula or promise fair funding distribution
Holding The Snp Accountable
Response accuracy
Q8 Partial Answer
Neil Shastri-Hurst Con
Solihull West and Shirley
Context
The Cabinet Office is responsible for public appointments, which must be based on merit and not political connections.
What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that public appointments are made purely on merit without political patronage or ideological bias?
Public appointments should be made through independent panels. Reforms continue to ensure that the best candidates lead without political conflicts.
Assessment & feedback
Did not specify recent measures or progress on reforms
Referred To Past Administration'S Failures
Response accuracy
Q9 Direct Answer
Jessica Toale Lab
Bournemouth West
Context
Digital ID forums are important for discussing public service access issues and building consensus.
What recent progress has been made on the work of the digital ID people's panel, which is crucial for ensuring public consent?
Digital ID debates involve independent experts and advocates. Recommendations received from 120 citizens are being considered to ensure a free-to-use and freedom-of-choice system.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q10 Partial Answer
Helena Dollimore Lab Co-op
Hastings and Rye
Context
Restoring international trains to Ashford International would bring half a million visitors annually and £2.5 billion in economic growth.
Can the Minister support restoring international trains at Ashford, which is crucial for bringing significant economic benefits to Sussex and Kent?
My hon. Friend's advocacy has been heard clearly.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to discussing or supporting the restoration of international trains at Ashford
Response accuracy
Q11 Partial Answer
John Lamont Con
Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
Context
The High Court judge ruled that Murrell's crimes were not sophisticated. The SNP Government refuses to launch an investigation.
Will the government set up an inquiry into the Peter Murrell scandal, given the need for transparency about what was known and when by Scottish officials?
The House notes the conclusion of the criminal investigation. Establishing an inquiry requires meeting certain conditions, which we are willing to review.
Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm if a formal inquiry will be established
Reference To Necessary Conditions
Response accuracy
Q12 Partial Answer
Laura Kyrke-Smith Lab
Aylesbury
Context
Threats from hostile foreign actors are evolving rapidly, affecting critical infrastructure like hospital networks and transport systems.
What measures are Ministers taking to prepare for these threats and build national resilience, including informing the public about potential risks?
We track evolving threats from hostile foreign actors and provide advice to help businesses, communities, and individuals deal with them.
Assessment & feedback
Did not outline specific measures or initiatives in place
Response accuracy
Q13 Partial Answer
Lincoln Jopp Con
Spelthorne
Context
A review is being conducted on Lord Mandelson's time in office to ensure no leverage was used during his tenure.
Could the Minister give an update on the review of documentation from Lord Mandelson's time in office, and reassure that it will not be sidelined?
The investigations are ongoing; parallel reviews are happening in the European Parliament. Updates will be provided to my successor.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific timeline for updates or confirm it will not be sidelined
Parallel Investigations In The European Parliament
Response accuracy
Q14 Partial Answer
Pam Cox Lab
Colchester
Context
The MP is interested in how the government's programme for SMEs will specifically benefit certain sectors, particularly those relevant to her constituents and the east of England.
It is encouraging to hear that SMEs will benefit from greater access to Government procurement routes. Can the Minister set out which kind of sectors in particular they think will benefit the most?
There are four sectors where we are using national security guidance, but the support for SMEs is much broader. I will happily talk to my hon. Friend and come back to her on particular parts of her constituency, but this plan will be nationwide, supporting all parts of the country, with more than £7 billion of Government money going to SMEs.
Assessment & feedback
The specific sectors that will benefit most were not specified.
Response accuracy
Q15 Partial Answer
Tessa Munt Lib Dem
Wells and Mendip Hills
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential loss of valuable agricultural land due to the government's plan for 1.5 million new homes, given that the UK already imports 55% of its food.
Food security is national security, and I am glad that the Government recognised that earlier this year. As the Government pursue their building of 1.5 million homes, can we make sure that the Minister's Department talks to other Departments across Government so that we do not lose valuable agricultural land?
I assure the House that, given the Department I was in previously, I am able to join up the “food security is national security” mantra in a stronger way than has perhaps happened. The Government's land use framework demonstrates how we can ensure through multiple land use that we can build the homes we need and grow the food we need.
Assessment & feedback
The specific measures to protect agricultural land were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q16 Partial Answer
Tom Hayes Lab
Bournemouth East
Context
The MP is seeking to understand what specific actions the Labour Government will take to bring Britain back into closer ties with the EU.
Catherine on Tuckton Road, Claire on Naseby Road and Elise on Irving Road all agree that Britain should draw closer to the European Union. Can the European relations Minister please tell my constituents what this Labour Government are doing to bring Britain into the heart of the European Union again?
I am proud to have delivered the new security and defence partnership and the re-accession to Erasmus+. We are working on a summit that will be good for jobs, bear down on bills and secure our borders.
Assessment & feedback
The specific steps being taken were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q17 Partial Answer
Alec Shelbrooke Con
Wetherby and Easingwold
Context
The MP is addressing concerns from constituents about problems with digital verification on gov.uk websites, particularly facial recognition.
Many of my constituents have contacted me about the problems they have been having with digital verification on gov.uk websites. What routes do people have if they are unable to use digital verification to access services?
The Government's preparations for digital ID will ensure that all existing routes for accessing public services will remain in place. The preparation for digital ID, which will make digital access to public services easier, as I described earlier, will be built with the highest trusted status and will be road-tested by the public.
Assessment & feedback
The specific alternative routes were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q18 Partial Answer
Chi Onwurah Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of US restrictions on access to AI models for UK businesses, and seeks clarity on how the government will work with EU allies.
Will the Minister ensure that as part of the UK-EU summit, our leading technology sector works closely with European Union allies to ensure that we have greater competition and resilience in our technology stack?
There are a number of areas where additional work with the European Union will be in our national interest. One of the great advantages of having annual UK-EU summits is that precisely those issues can be brought up.
Assessment & feedback
The specific steps for cooperation were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q19 Partial Answer
John Glen Con
Salisbury
Context
The MP is concerned about the cost and governance issues associated with public inquiries, seeking clarity on how government plans to manage these effectively.
Public inquiries undoubtedly provide a significant mechanism to bring redress to enduring wrongs in the British state. What conclusions is the Paymaster General coming to on how the Government ensure that money is spent well and that these public inquiries report in a timely fashion?
The right hon. Gentleman is entirely right about that. I think we all know the value of public inquiries and the moment of public justice that they give. What we need to be very careful about is, first, how much they cost and, secondly, the time they take, so that when recommendations do come, they are timely.
Assessment & feedback
The specific conclusions were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q20 Partial Answer
Martin Rhodes Lab
Glasgow North
Context
The MP is seeking information on how the government coordinates support across departments to assist SMEs in managing risks associated with severe weather conditions.
What steps is the Cabinet Office taking to co-ordinate work across Government on national resilience, particularly in relation to supporting SMEs in extreme weather conditions?
SMEs, individuals and communities should look at the national advice that is published and check on gov.uk/protect, so that they can take the advice. It is simple and it is up there.
Assessment & feedback
No specific steps were provided for coordinating support for SMEs during extreme weather.
Response accuracy
Q21 Partial Answer
Jim Shannon DUP
Strangford
Context
The MP is concerned about the low percentage of direct public procurement spend awarded to small businesses in Northern Ireland and seeks clarity on government plans.
In Northern Ireland, a 2024 study found that only around one fifth of direct public procurement spend across the wider public sector is awarded to small businesses. Given the reliance on smaller businesses in Northern Ireland, what steps will the Minister take with Cabinet colleagues to improve their access to public procurement?
We are taking a number of steps to improve SME access to Government procurement, and I outlined those earlier. If it is okay with the hon. Gentleman, I will write to him about the specific measures we are taking in Northern Ireland.
Assessment & feedback
The specific measures for enhancing access were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q22 Partial Answer
Nick Smith Lab
Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney
Context
The Welsh Government's expectations on digital access to public services.
I, too, hope that digital ID will help improve the delivery of public services outcomes. Can the Minister please say what steps the Government are taking to work with the Welsh Government on this important policy development?
We are working closely with the devolved Governments through bilateral meetings and regular official engagement. Digital ID will be free to use, and there will be freedom to choose.
Assessment & feedback
Specific steps to collaborate on digital ID were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q23 Partial Answer
Julie Minns Lab
Carlisle
Context
Issues faced by constituents living along the English-Scottish border with respect to cross-border healthcare.
My constituents, who live along the English-Scottish border, already experience issues when it comes to accessing cross-border healthcare. I recently expressed concern that the single patient record will not go across the border. May I press the Minister to ensure that lessons are being learned, and that we have cross-border operability, when it comes to digital ID?
My hon. Friend is absolutely right: it is crucial that we learn how well some of the innovations in our health tech have lent themselves to the process of implementing digital access to services. We are open-minded and will have further conversations.
Assessment & feedback
Concrete steps towards cross-border operability were not provided
Response accuracy
Q24 Partial Answer
Matt Western Lab
Warwick and Leamington
Context
Recent attacks on the Prime Minister's home and car.
Following the attack on the Prime Minister's home and car, what measures are being taken to protect recently resigned or other senior leaders of Government?
We always assess security risks on a case-by-case basis, and we do not discuss what they are in public.
Assessment & feedback
Details of specific risk assessments or protective measures were evaded
Does Not Discuss Details Publicly
Response accuracy
Q25 Direct Answer
Jayne Kirkham Lab Co-op
Truro and Falmouth
Context
Previous experience as a chair of a local government pension scheme.
As a previous chair of a local government pension scheme, I was really pleased to hear that the Government are going to bring catering, security, cleaning staff, porters and repair people back into Government Departments. Does the Minister agree that this is beneficial for those workers?
I absolutely do. We announced last week our intention to bring all Government Property Agency, catering and security services back in-house. It remains a priority for the Government.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q26 Partial Answer
Jeff Smith Lab
Manchester Withington
Context
Barriers created by Brexit for UK artists touring in Europe.
Brexit has created a number of serious barriers to the ability of UK artists to tour in Europe. Has the Minister had a chance to look at the recently published Culture, Media and Sport Committee report on this issue?
Yes, I have. It remains a priority for the Government to work with our colleagues on this issue.
Assessment & feedback
Specific measures to address barriers were not detailed
It Remains A Priority
Response accuracy
Q27 Direct Answer
Will Stone Lab
Swindon North
Context
Impact of conflict in the Middle East on UK's domestic economy.
Can the Minister update us on what recent actions he has taken to co-ordinate the Government's domestic policy on the war in the middle east?
We have established a Cabinet Sub-Committee chaired by the Prime Minister and I chair senior ministerial groups to ensure we understand the impact of the conflict on the UK economy. This work informs government decisions to protect British citizens and the UK economy.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q28 Partial Answer
Euan Stainbank Lab
Falkirk
Context
Concerns regarding Chinese buses and job security in the UK.
Following the Government's welcome designation of four sectors as critical to national security, we have continued to see an exponential rise in under-investigation Chinese buses on our streets. In my constituency, 125 jobs were put at risk back in March following an SNP grant scheme that sent the lion's share of the public money to Chinese manufacturers. Will the Minister designate bus manufacturing as a sector critical to national security?
My hon. Friend has raised this with me, and we are looking at it. We have started with four sectors and want to go further.
Assessment & feedback
Concrete steps towards designating bus manufacturing as critical were not provided
Response accuracy