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  • St Edmund’s Catholic School identified as high achieving when it comes to boosting pupil attendance. 
  • Schools across Portsmouth to be set an individual minimum target to improve attendance and set up every child to achieve and thrive. 
  • Labour to build on best-in-a-decade attendance gains to restore millions of days of lost learning and drive national renewal. 

Today 18 November, Stephen Morgan MP for Portsmouth, has congratulated St Edmund’s Catholic School on its status as a ‘hub’ for Labour’s drive to boost pupil attendance post-pandemic. 

Labour has announced 36 new Attendance and Behaviour Hubs, which will offer direct one-to-one support reaching tens of thousands of pupils across hundreds of schools, as wider sharing of best practice through events and open days. 

It comes as children in Portsmouth stand to gain more days of learning as Labour’s Education Secretary has set local schools an individual minimum attendance target – part of an urgent drive to restore absence to pre-pandemic levels. 

Last year saw the biggest improvement in overall attendance in a decade nationally, with the Labour government overseeing 5.3 million more days in school and 140,000 fewer persistently absent pupils as part of its Plan for Change. 

But with 1 in 3 schools failing to improve, the Department for Education is providing schools in Portsmouth with roadmaps to double down on efforts to support pupils back to class, as research shows the importance of every day in school for children’s opportunity in life and future earnings. 

From this month, Portsmouth schools will be issued with AI-powered minimum attendance improvement targets to ensure children are in school and ready to achieve. The attendance baseline improvement expectation (ABIE) will be based on schools’ circumstances – including location, pupil needs and deprivation. 

Labour is also harnessing AI and data to give more support to [area]’s schools to meet the minimum expectations, by linking them up with high performing schools, like St Edmund’s Catholic School. 

Commenting, Stephen Morgan MP for Portsmouth South, said: 

“I give my congratulations to St Edmund’s Catholic School. Their hard work throughout recent years has been rewarded with new status as Lead School for the RISE attendance and behaviour support programme. 

“Through several visits to St Edmund’s in my time as MP for Portsmouth, I have seen first-hand the dedication of teachers, school support staff and pupils, which I am proud to see formally acknowledged.

“Labour has already achieved the best attendance gains in a decade since coming into office last year. However, this Government wants to go even further to fulfil their commitment to breaking down barriers to opportunity, so every child can achieve and thrive.

“St Edmund’s Catholic School will be able to lead by example and spread best practice across Portsmouth South, I look forward to collaborating with them once again, ensuring that local children are given the best start in life.” 

Commenting, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, said: 

“We can only deliver opportunity for children in our country if they’re in school, achieving and thriving. That’s why I want every school to play its part in getting attendance back to – and beyond – pre-pandemic levels. 

“We’ve already delivered the biggest improvement in attendance in a decade and now we’re building a school system for the future with free breakfast clubs, more mental health support and a curriculum and enrichment offer to match. But we must go further.

“By working jointly with schools to set individual school targets, we’re tackling variation head-on. Our best schools already have a brilliant approach to attendance, and now we’re driving that focus everywhere so that so that all children are supported to attend school and learn.” 

Research has also identified a significant attendance drop-off during Key Stage 3 as pupils struggle to settle in to secondary school life and emerging issues start to surface. 

That is why schools will now receive a best practice toolkit from the Labour government, targeting these critical transition moments – like the jump from primary to secondary and Year 7 to 8 – giving them proven strategies to keep children engaged. 

The post “Attendance and Behaviour Hubs will help ensure every child succeeds” says City MP appeared first on Stephen Morgan MP.

During Road Safety Awareness Week, Amanda Martin, Member of Parliament for Portsmouth North, joined Minister for Local Transport Lilian Greenwood to support Labour’s upcoming Road Safety Strategy – the first national plan in over a decade to tackle the rising number of deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads.

Across Portsmouth, residents have raised concerns about speeding, dangerous driving, poor enforcement, and pedestrian safety – particularly near schools, residential areas, and busy junctions.

Amanda Martin MP for Portsmouth North said: “I’ve listened, met and brought together so many people in Portsmouth who are calling for action, not excuses. Road safety isn’t just a transport issue, it’s about protecting lives, supporting families, and restoring confidence in our streets. I’m proud to stand with the Minister and support Labour’s plan to make our roads safer and ensure our community sees the benefits.”

Amanda added: “Every year, 1,600 people lose their lives on our roads, and thousands more are seriously injured. We would not accept this in any other area of public life – a tragedy for families and a huge cost of over £2 billion a year to our NHS. Labour’s commitment to restoring order to our roads and protecting all road users is long overdue.”

The Road Safety Strategy is expected to be published soon and will mark a major step forward in Labour’s mission to restore order to Britain’s roads and protect every road user. Some of the following measures are currently being looked at to be included in the Road Safety Strategy, subject to consultation. 

  • Points on license for not wearing a seatbelt
  • Compulsory eye tests for over 70s, and explore ways to test for other things like dementia
  • Introducing a minimum learning period for learner drivers
  • Tackling headlight glare
  • Review and lower the drink drive limit
  • Tougher penalties for uninsured drivers
  • Saliva drug tests
  • Ghost plates

 

 

The post Amanda Martin MP Champions Road Safety with Local Transport Minister appeared first on Amanda Martin MP.

Catherine McKinnell MP raises awareness of PKU in Parliament

Catherine McKinnell (Newcastle upon Tyne North)

Catherine McKinnell MP met with Newcastle locals at an event in Parliament to raise awareness of PKU, a rare health condition. PKU, or Phenylketonuria, is an inherited metabolic disorder affecting 1 in 10,000 people in the UK. Catherine met Anna and James, whose three-year-old son lives with the condition. They told her about how the […]

Weekly Roundup 10th – 14th November 2025

Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West)

Here are just a few of the things I’ve been getting up to this week

https://x.com/i/status/1989574147223994875

? 110,000 more families in Wales will receive £150 off their energy bills through the Warm Home Discount

? One in five families across Britain will get help with their bills, providing households in Llanelli with vital support

? Letters confirming eligibility for this winter are beginning to arrive for families across the area

Around 110,000 extra households in Wales will see their energy bills cut by £150 as a result of the UK Labour Government’s expansion of the Warm Home Discount.

Thousands of families in Wales are beginning to receive letters detailing their eligibility, as Labour expands vital cost of living support to all billpayers on a means-tested benefit.

Labour is acting to protect families across the country, bringing nearly 2.7 million additional households into the scheme – pushing the total number of households receiving the discount up to an estimated 6.1 million.

Dame Nia Griffith, MP for Llanelli said:

“Many families in Llanelli are still struggling with the cost of living and the Warm Home Discount will make a real difference for them.  Energy bills are still too high but this will help towards protecting those most in need this winter.”

“The expanded scheme will now enable more households in Llanelli to receive support to make their energy bills more affordable.”

UK Government Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

“Letters will be dropping on doormats across the country, containing welcome news for hundreds of thousands of families.

“This Government is determined to tackle energy affordability for families, and this winter more people will be helped as a result.

“I would urge anyone who doesn’t automatically qualify for the discount to get in touch with their supplier, so they get the money they are entitled to.”

? Households in Llanelli receiving Pension Credit: Guarantee Credit will receive the Warm Home Discount automatically.

? Some households will need to provide extra information to ensure they get the discount, with letters advising them to call the helpline provided. They will need an electricity bill or statement to confirm the bill payer’s name and account number.

? Households receiving other means-tested benefits are urged to contact their energy supplier to find out about how to apply for the discount.

? Further information on the Warm Home Discount scheme can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme

Preet Kaur Gill - My Weekly Update - 14 November

Preet Kaur Gill (Birmingham Edgbaston)

Over 17,000 veterans in Birmingham are set to benefit from a transformational new Veterans Strategy as the government announced plans this week to renew the nation's contract with those who serve and have served. £27m released from the £50m VALOUR system, to ensure veterans have easier access to essential care and support through a network of innovative new support hubs. Centres will offer guidance and support in health, housing and employment, and can extend to finance, wellbeing, welfar

A Turning Point for the NHS: Renewal in Action This year, NHS waiting lists have finally gone down. On the surface, that might not sound like a big deal. But it is. Monumentally so. / Because it’s the first time in 15 years that they’ve fallen. / Before the General Election last summer, Britain was

The post A Turning Point for the NHS: Renewal in Action appeared first on Sean Woodcock, MP for Banbury.

Meg's Weekly Round-Up: Friday 11 November

Dame Meg Hillier (Hackney South and Shoreditch)

See here for what I've been up to in Hackney and Westminster this week.

Backing Better Buses for Bristol South

Karin Smyth (Bristol South)

The M1 Metrobus, one of several routes that are being extended or added in Bristol South in 2025, photo credit: West of England Combined Authority Regular readers will know that my parents met working on the buses, and I am a huge supporter of bus travel. Even people who don’t regularly take the bus will have noticed the strain on our roads during the recent bus drivers’ strike in Bristol – buses matter for all of us. A reliable bus network can help to take more cars off the road, open up...
8 November 2025
George Freeman plants cross in Parliamentary Garden of Remembrance

Local MP George Freeman planted a memorial cross in the Parliamentary Garden of Remembrance on behalf of Mid Norfolk.

He said:

“It was an honour to plant a memorial cross in the Parliamentary Garden of Remembrance to remember and thank all of those from Mid Norfolk who have served our country in the armed forces family.

“In Remembrance Week we need to remember and honour not just those who gave their lives but also the partners, children and families who suffer the trauma of their loss and the long term consequences.

“The Mid Norfolk constituency has a long and proud connection to the military through our long association with the RAF and USAF bomber based in the war, our barracks at Swanton Morley, RAF Marham and our many cadets and retired forces personnel.

“Earlier this week I was pleased to host the brilliant Beyond the Wire project set up by Armed Forces families who have lost loved ones in the line of duty.

“After laying a cross of remembrance in their honour I was pleased to join them at the APPG for the Armed Forces Community and highlight the importance of Government honouring the pledge in the military covenant to do right by our forces families.”

Local beauty businesses and students showcased their contribution at a special event in Westminster.

Nesil Caliskan, Member of Parliament for Barking, helped local beauty businesses “take over Parliament” to celebrate this year’s British Beauty Week. Hairdressers, nail salons and beauty academy students – all from Barking and Dagenham – were invited to Parliament by the MP for a special reception and tour.

British Beauty Week is promoted by the British Beauty Council every year to celebrate the contribution of beauty businesses to our economy and high streets.  

The theme of this year’s Beauty Week is the future of beauty, highlighting the industry’s innovation and sustainability. The UK beauty industry contributes over £31 billion to the economy each year and supports more than 85,000 jobs in London. 

Nesil Caliskan, Barking MP, speaking to guests at her Beauty Week reception in Parliament in front of a lecturn.

Commenting on the takeover, Nesil Caliskan, Member of Parliament for Barking said: “I invited local beauty businesses and students to takeover Parliament to celebrate their contribution, let them know how important they are for our community, and how much this government values them. 

“They employ hundreds of local people, bring life to our high streets, and help people feel great every day. They are vital for our local economy, and today’s takeover proved the future of beauty is undoubtedly in Barking and Dagenham.” 

Victoria Brownlie, Chief of Policy & Sustainability at the British Beauty Council, who was at the event, said: “The hair and beauty industry provides so much to so many and events like this help those working in the industry to feel seen, recognised and appreciated, just as they deserve to. Their social, cultural and economic contribution cements them as serious businesses, not just fluffy stuff that girls do, and we’re so grateful to Nesil for shining a light on this during British Beauty Week.”

Nesil Caliskan, Barking MP, with Erica Brobbey, owner of Empress Hair & Beauty - a business in Barking - and her daughter Tiana at a reception in Parliament.

Erica Brobbey, from Empress Hair and Beauty, a business in Barking, said: “It was an honour to join fellow beauty professionals in Parliament and proudly represent Barking and Dagenham’s thriving beauty community. Meeting other business owners and speaking with Victoria from the British Beauty Council was truly inspiring. The event highlighted the real impact our industry has, not just economically, but in the confidence and wellbeing it brings to people every day.  

“I’m proud to be part of a community that continues to empower others and contribute so positively to the local economy. Events like this show that the future of beauty is bright, and it’s happening right here in Barking and Dagenham.” 

  • 280,000 more families in the North West will receive £150 off their energy bills through the Warm Home Discount
  • One in five families across Britain will get help with their bills, providing households in Manchester Withington with vital support
  • Letters confirming eligibility for this winter are beginning to arrive for families across the area

Around 280,000 extra households in the North West will see their energy bills cut by £150 as a result of the Labour Government’s expansion of the Warm Home Discount.

Thousands of families in the North West are beginning to receive letters detailing their eligibility, as Labour expands vital cost of living support to all billpayers on a means-tested benefit.

Labour is acting to protect families across the country, bringing nearly 2.7 million additional households into the scheme – pushing the total number of households receiving the discount up to an estimated 6.1 million.

Jeff Smith, MP for Manchester Withington said:

“This vital support will make a real difference to families in Manchester Withington struggling with the cost of living.

“Labour is determined to secure our energy system and protect households from energy bills that are still too high.

“The expanded Warm Homes Discount will provide essential support to families in our area this winter.”

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

“Letters will be dropping on doormats across the country this week, containing welcome news for hundreds of thousands of families.

“This Government is determined to tackle energy affordability for families, and this winter more people will be helped as a result.

“I would urge anyone who doesn’t automatically qualify for the discount to get in touch with their supplier, so they get the money they are entitled to.”

A festive graphic featuring Bell with a Christmas hat photoshopped onto her head. It reads Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP's Christmas Card Competition. Open to children of all ages in Clapham and Brxiton Hill. Theme: South London Winter Wonderland. Deadline: 5th December 2025. At the top is a border of mistletoe. In the bottom left corner, a pile of presents crowned with two bells and holly and draped in Christmas tree lights.

🎄 My 2025 Christmas Card Competition is now open for entries!

As in previous years, I’m inviting young people from across Clapham and Brixton Hill to showcase their creative talent by designing my official Christmas card. This year’s theme is “South London Winter Wonderland.” Imagine snow flurries in Stockwell, Christmas lights twinkling down Brixton Road, reindeer dancing across Clapham Common or your favourite local spot turned into a magical festive scene. Fill your card with colour, joy, and the spirit of South London at Christmas! 🎨❄️

🖍️ How to Enter

The competition is open to anyone under 18 who lives in or attends school in the Clapham & Brixton Hill constituency. You can create your design by hand or digitally — whatever inspires you most!

Send your entry by:
📧 Email: bell.ribeiroaddy.mp@parliament.uk
📬 Post: Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
💻 Social media: Tag @BellRibeiroAddy (@bell_ribeiroaddy on Instagram)

Deadline: Friday 5th December 2025
If you’re sending your card by post, please make sure it arrives in plenty of time!

🏆 Prizes

The winning design will be sent out to thousands of people across our constituency, including local Labour members and other MPs, as my official Christmas card. There will also be prizes for runners-up across different age categories, and all entries will be celebrated in a special festive display.

💫 FAQs

Who can enter?
Anyone under 18 who lives in or attends school in Clapham & Brixton Hill.

How do I enter?
Send your design by email, social media, or post — see the details above.

When’s the deadline?
Friday 5th December 2025.

What are the prizes?
The winning design becomes my official Christmas card! Runners-up will also receive prizes, and all entries will be featured in a festive showcase on my website and in my constituency office.


✉️ Questions?

If you have any questions about the competition, please get in touch with my team:
📩 bell.ribeiroaddy.mp@parliament.uk

The post Clapham & Brixton Hill Christmas Card Competition 2025 – South London Winter Wonderland appeared first on Bell Ribeiro-Addy.

Byrne Presses HS2 to Deliver Business Park Timetable

Liam Byrne (Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North)

Liam Byrne MP today met senior HS2 officials at the Washwood Heath Drew’s Lane site to insist on a firm timetable for handing back land to unlock the creation of thousands of local jobs. The Washwood Heath site (formerly the LDV site) has long been earmarked for redevelopment as a major business park, forming a key part of Liam Byrne’s election pledge to drive jobs and regeneration in East Birmingham. However, progress has been delayed due to unresolved issues with HS2. During today’s visit,...

October Newsletter

Mohammad Yasin (Bedford)

Dear Constituent,

Coming out of the summer recess, a short sitting in Parliament, and then straight into party conference season always feels like a bit of a whirlwind, but I have been very pleased with the amount of work that has still happened in Westminster this year.

With landmark progress on the world stage, important policy announcements at home, visits, openings, debates, there’s plenty to digest from the last month or so. And of course, work in the constituency continues at pace, including helping constituents with casework matters.

In such a busy time, it’s more important to me than ever to hear from you on the issues that matter most, and I really appreciate everyone who takes the time to get in touch about their views, issues, and concerns. My team and I are here to help, so please do reach out!

Yours sincerely,

Mohammad Yasin MP

Constituents get in touch

Since my last newsletter, my office has created over 800 new cases for constituents, receiving nearly 2,000 emails, as well as letters and phone calls, and issues raised at my drop-in surgeries.

Being here to listen, and offer my help and support, is my first priority as your MP. My team and I will always do all we can to help, or direct people to alternatives on issues that we can’t assist with ourselves. Constituents are always welcome to get in touch, with the easiest way being to email office@mohammadyasin.org. Please include your name and address, and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

As well as helping out with issues to do with visas, housing, access to health services, and lots of other casework queries, I have also heard from many of you about a number of recent events and announcements.  One such topic is the Government’s proposal to introduce a Digital ID system. I completely understand why people have questions and concerns, particularly given the amount of confusing and sometimes misleading information circulating online.

While I welcome open discussion about how technology can improve access to services, I regret that so much misinformation has spread before we even know the final shape of the plans. Some of the claims circulating, such as that people will be constantly tracked or required to show ID to go about daily life, are simply not true. Many democratic countries already use digital identity systems successfully, with strong protections in place to keep personal freedom and privacy at their core.

That does not mean there are no legitimate concerns. Questions about privacy, data security,

and oversight must be taken very seriously, and I share the view that trust will depend entirely

on how the system is designed and introduced. We must avoid any unnecessary burden on people, ensure data is protected, and make sure there are strict limits on how and when information can be used. There must also be robust alternatives for anyone who does not want to use the digital system.

In simple terms, what’s being proposed is a free and optional digital form of identification, designed to make it easier to access certain public services, such as tax, childcare, or driving licence applications. It could be stored on a smartphone or similar device, but no one would be forced to use it. The only situation where the Government has said a Digital ID might become mandatory is for the existing “Right to Work” check that employers already have to carry out; and even then, this would not mean needing to carry around Digital ID to present in our daily lives, and would not involve the Government gathering new data that it doesn’t already hold.

It’s also important to be clear that no final decisions have been made. The Government has said there will be a full public consultation, and any system would need to go through Parliament before it could become law. That means MPs will be able to scrutinise, amend, or reject the proposals, and many important details are still to be worked out. These include how to best protect personal data, how to support people who don’t use smartphones, and what privacy safeguards must be built in.

As your Member of Parliament, I will examine the proposals closely when they come before the House, and I will push for strong safeguards, clear limits on use, and proper oversight. I will also encourage constituents to take part in the consultation once it opens, so that your voices are heard. This is exactly the kind of issue where thoughtful public input can make a real difference.

In the constituency

It’s been another busy month across Bedford and Kempston, here’s a round up of my meetings and visits:

  • Westfield Primary School to see progress on their new nursery, one of the first in the country to benefit from expanded government-funded childcare. With Phase 2 now launched, backed by £45m, at least 300 more school-based nurseries will follow.
  • The opening of newly-laid pitches at Bedford Sports and Hockey Centre. With £400m announced nationally for grassroots sport, it’s fantastic to see local investment already in action.
  • Bedfordshire Festival of Walks, hosted by the Ramblers, celebrating our countryside and community. It was a pleasure to join in on a walk.
  • I joined the Police and Crime Commissioner, Chief Inspector Andy Smith and community officers for a town centre walkabout. We discussed anti-social behaviour, shoplifting, e-scooters and community safety. The “Safer Streets, Safer Town Centre” initiative is already showing encouraging results.
  • Daisy Hill Family Hub’s community event, enjoyed by families of all ages.
  • I enjoyed Simon’s “Paintings of Bedford” exhibition in aid of the Kings Arms Project.
  • Food etc’s “Building a Healthier Bedford Together” event, highlighting their brilliant cookery workshops.
  • I was inspired by Year 12 students at Mark Rutherford School, who asked thoughtful questions on policing, healthcare, AI, jobs and more. Giving young people a real voice through votes at 16, investment in youth services, and opportunities for skills and apprenticeships is vital.
  • I met Kiran Singh of The Sattva Collective, a new CIC supporting South Asian women through midlife and menopause.
  • I received an update from Mike Berrill on plans for an Open Learning school in Bedford, supporting children within an alternative education setting where they can flourish.
  • I attended the opening of Casablanca Hammam & Spa, Bedford’s first Moroccan spa.
  • I spoke at the launch of Crispy Dosa’s new restaurant, creating 25 local jobs.
  • I was delighted to join Ashley Dalton, Minister for Public Health at the opening of Bedford Hospital’s new Community Diagnostic Centre.
  • I was pleased to attend East Bedford PCN’s community coffee morning, raising awareness of cancer screening with support from local organisations and GPs.
  • I attended Hanover Court’s charity afternoon tea with Cllr Colleen Atkins.
  • I met with Bedford Borough Council officers and taxi/private hire representatives to discuss improvements to the licensing system.

Labour Conference

This year’s conference offered a great opportunity for Ministers to reflect on the progress made over the last year, as well as laying out the work they’re doing to continue the project of delivering a decade of national renewal.

Outside of the big speeches, Labour’s conference had hundreds, if not thousands, of discussion panels and other events. I was pleased to take part in one as a panellist, speaking on my experiences and focus as an MP as Labour has moved from opposition to Government. To me, the priorities are the same; being an accessible, hard-working representative for our community all year round. There is no doubt that being in Government comes with its own challenges and opportunities, but for me, both can be handled by remembering who we work for, and what they want to see from their representatives.

These principles were shared by the Prime Minister in his Leader’s Speech. We’ve seen too many people trying to use patriotism and our flags as a means to divide Britain in recent months, so I was very pleased to see the Prime Minister presenting a strong case for a progressive, Labour form of patriotism. This means building Britain up, not talking the country down; building bridges with our neighbours, confident enough in who we are to work with others despite our differences; and focussed on overcoming the challenges we face as a nation, together, in unity.

As well as a clear statement on this Government’s identity, the Prime Minister spoke on his policy priorities. As he and the Chancellor have always said, the keystone to delivering the national renewal, world-class public services, secure housing for all, education that sets our children up for life, and more, is an economy strong enough to support it. The Chancellor’s speech was all about renewal. She reflected on Labour’s first year in government, fixing the foundations, restoring economic stability after years of Conservative mismanagement, and putting public finances back on track. With those foundations more secure, the government is now focused on renew and rebuild. 

The Health Secretary took to the Conference stage and pulled no punches standing up against Reform’s plans to sell out our NHS in favour of a more American-style insurance-based system, and setting out Labour’s bold vision to renew our health and care services. From 2027, a new NHS Online service will act as a pioneering “online hospital”, delivering the equivalent of 8.5 million extra appointments in just three years. That means faster treatment, shorter waits, and patients back in control of their care.

He also confirmed the first-ever Fair Pay Agreement for care workers, backed by £500m, ending poverty pay and insecurity in social care. Labour has already delivered 5 million extra appointments, 2,000 new GPs, 700,000 dental slots, and NHS pay rises above inflation. Waiting times are already the lowest in 3 years but we won’t stop until we’ve cut waits from 18 months to 18 weeks and built a National Care Service worthy of the name. Only Labour can be trusted with the NHS. 

Investing in our future is always worthwhile. A renewed approach to providing young people with the training and opportunities they need to start good careers will have a huge impact for many. Expanding on previous further education goals, there is now a target of two-thirds of young people going to university or undertaking gold-standard apprenticeships. I look forward to seeing the impact this can have for us here in Bedford and Kempston, where we have a proud history of first-class education across the board.

Each year’s Labour conference has a unique feel, a snapshot of the mood around the country within the party. This year, I was greatly enthused by the level of energy going into growing, learning, and working together towards common goals. As the second year of this Labour Government continues, I look forward to building on our progress so far and delivering the change Britain needs into the future.

In Westminster

I was pleased to be able to take part in a Westminster Hall debate to raise concerns about changes to the Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund (ASGSF), which provides therapeutic support for vulnerable children. I welcomed the Minister’s confirmation that the fund will continue next year, with applications open for 2026–27.

Regarding Israel’s actions in Qatar, I raised a question to the FCDO Minister, Hamish Falconer. There are real concerns about the implications of Israel’s strike in Qatar for peace and stability in the Middle East, and on UK foreign policy. In light of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s extra-judicial killings, I asked if the Government would go further than condemning the attacks against a sovereign Western ally, and uphold international law, ban all arms to Israel and impose severe sanctions on the Israeli Government.

On World Suicide Prevention Day, I raised the issue of harmful online content and the accountability of tech companies during Science, Innovation & Technology Questions. I welcomed the strengthening of the Online Safety Act, which requires platforms to protect users from illegal and harmful content. But charities like the Molly Rose Foundation (MRF) remain concerned that major platforms may not be fully complying, especially on risk assessments.

Ofcom has requested risk assessments from over 60 services, including smaller but high-risk platforms. I asked the Government what further steps it is taking to ensure Ofcom enforces the law robustly. The Minister confirmed platforms now have a legal duty to act, with fines of up to 10% of global revenue for breaches, and that Ofcom has already launched 12 investigations. But action must match words, and regulators must hold platforms to account.

During Transport Questions, I asked the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander for assurances that the transport plans for the proposed Universal Studios resort in Bedford, expected to attract around 8 million visitors each year, will prioritise a public transport system fit for the 21st century. I emphasised the need for a comprehensive, sustainable network from day one: modern electric rail connections to key regional hubs, frequent and affordable electric bus services, and safe, well-designed walking and cycling routes. These measures would ease pressure on local roads, cut emissions, and ensure that residents as well as visitors can travel conveniently and sustainably.

I attended a very well attended debate to discuss the e-petition calling for the ability to “Retain the legal right to assessment and support in education for children with SEND”. After a constituent wrote in to tell me about his experience with neurodiversity, explaining that although he was diagnosed with autism in lower school, it wasn’t until upper school that teachers truly understood his needs and he began to flourish, and so I wanted to reinforce the point that we must improve routine screening for neurodivergent conditions so every child can be identified early, supported properly, and given the best chance to learn and reach their full potential. This autumn, the Government will publish its SEND White Paper of its proposals to fix the system. This is a critical opportunity, and we must ensure it does not dilute hard-won rights.

Labour’s Employment Rights Bill was presented to the House, and I was incredibly pleased to support this core manifesto pledge. This is the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation and the first step in our Plan to Make Work Pay. Meanwhile, the Tories and Reform voted against plans to boost working conditions, including extending sick pay to 1.3 million of the lowest earners.

This landmark Bill which is now in its final parliamentary stages will deliver; day-one rights to protection from unfair dismissal, plus stronger redundancy safeguards; stronger sick pay, extending Statutory Sick Pay to 1.3 million of the lowest earners and removing unfair waiting days; a ban on exploitative zero-hours contracts and “fire & rehire” tactics; fair pay agreements in adult social care and re-establishing a negotiating body for school support staff; day-one paternity and parental leave, new bereavement leave, and stronger protection for pregnant women and new mums; and flexible working from the start of employment and a duty on employers to give real reasons if they refuse.

Labour Governments have a long and proud record of improving pay and conditions for working people, and this landmark bill is another mark of progress for the history books.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be deeply concerning. It is vital that the peace plan must now be accompanied by the immediate lifting of all restrictions on life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza. I fully support the UK Government’s critical role in making progress, from recognising the state of Palestine, to calling for the Israeli Government to allow the UN and other agencies to deliver aid safely and securely, using all crossings and routes. The UK remains in close contact with Israeli authorities over the status of vessels seeking to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. I now call on all parties to build the foundations for a just and lasting end to the conflict and a sustainable path to a long-term peace. The UK will support these crucial immediate steps and the next stage of talks to ensure the full implementation of the peace plan. The progress we’re seeing is certainly welcome, but now more than ever, we cannot take our eyes off of Gaza and allow the fragile peace to break.

The post October Newsletter appeared first on Mohammad Yasin MP.

Judith has welcomed today's announcement that Bradford Bulls have been promoted to the Super League - Rugby League's highest division next season. "A huge congratulations to the Bradford Bulls on their promotion to the Super League! From fighting to get the Bulls back to their rightful home at Odsal Stadium to developing the club over the last few seasons, this has been a hard-fought win for the team. It is a testament to the years of hard work from everyone involved with Bradford Bulls, and...

Sure Start was life-changing for so many people in Bassetlaw, transforming the lives of children by putting in place family support in the earliest years of life. Sure Start, introduced by the last Labour government, helped level the playing field for children from lower income families, with research showing that children who attended a Sure Start centre were much more likely to perform better at school.

The previous Government cut community services, scrapping Sure Start, leaving a gaping hole in family services. When they left government, one in four families with children under five couldn’t access local children’s centres, rising to one in three lower income families. Speaking to local families in Bassetlaw, I hear time and again an ask for more support around SEND, youth services, and early development.

I welcome the news that the Government are building on the proud legacy of Sure Start, and reviving family services by rolling out 1,000 ‘Best Start Family Hubs’ by April 2026, including here in Bassetlaw.

Best Start Family Hubs will be a one stop shop for parents needing support, including on difficulty breastfeeding, housing issues or children’s early development, and other services such as:

  • Activities for children aged 0-5
  • Domestic abuse support
  • Early language support
  • Health Visiting
  • Infant Feeding Support
  • Midwifery/maternity services
  • Parenting Support
  • SEND support and services
  • Youth services

The post Giving Children in Bassetlaw the Best Start in Life appeared first on Jo White MP.

Our Country Faces a Choice

Liz Twist (Blaydon and Consett)

“We can all see our country faces a choice, a defining choice. Britain stands at a fork in the road. We can choose decency, or we can choose division, renewal or decline.”   These were the words spoken by Keir Starmer from the lectern in his Labour conference Leader’s speech in Liverpool this week. It […]

Update on Gaza

Liz Kendall (Leicester West)

On 29th July, the Prime Minister held an emergency cabinet meeting on the situation in Gaza.

I support the statement the Prime Minister made, after the meeting, confirming that the U.K will recognise the state of Palestine at the UN in September, unless the Israeli government takes significant steps.

I condemn the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians seeking to meet their basic needs of food and water in the strongest terms. These actions will not bring the hostages home. The war must stop. 


Whilst it’s welcome that more aid has been allowed into Gaza in recent days, it is simply not enough.  


The UK has dropped aid via air drops, but this is not enough. 


The Israeli government must allow aid to enter Gaza, without restriction. The Israeli government must agree to a ceasefire, not a pause.

The government will continue to work with our allies and with agencies to work towards the goal of long-lasting peace, stability and security that both Palestinians and Israelis deserve.

Please find a transcript of the Prime Minister’s speech here: www.gov.uk/government/speeches/pm-words-on-gaza-29-july-2025

The post Update on Gaza appeared first on Liz Kendall.

MP Column | It’s All Downhill From Here

Dave Doogan (Angus and Perthshire Glens)

At this stage in the electoral cycle at Westminster any new government, especially one with a 160-seat majority, should be at the peak of...
Friday 20 June 2025 marked a joyous and inspiring celebration of World Refugee Day at the Change Centre in Dundee, where eight refugee football teams from across Dundee, Glasgow, Perth, and Angus competed in the inaugural World Refugee Day Cup Football Tournament. The event was the vision of Sandy Greene, Chief Executive of ScrapAntics in ... Read more

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The Third Runway: A Monument to Mediocrity

Kit Malthouse (North West Hampshire)

An abridged version of this article ran in The Times on 3rd February 2025

In 2007, in the pages of this newspaper, I argued that Britain should seize the moment and move Heathrow to the Thames Estuary, freeing up the congested west London site for much-needed housing while creating a world-leading transport hub fit for the 21st century. It was an ambitious plan—perhaps too ambitious for a nation that has lost its appetite for grand infrastructure. Seventeen years later, what do we have? The same tired debates, the same dithering, and now, a third runway proposal that represents the absolute minimum of what could be done. It is not a vision; it is a concession to stagnation.

Throughout history, Britain built infrastructure that transformed cities and continents. The Victorians laid thousands of miles of railways across India and Africa. British engineers built the world’s first underground railway in London, the great docks of Hong Kong, and the vast shipping hubs that made global trade possible. Ours was once a nation that saw scale and complexity as challenges to be overcome, not reasons to prevaricate. Today, while China constructs floating airports in Hong Kong and Dalian, we are still arguing over a few extra miles of tarmac at an aging airport hemmed in by suburban sprawl.

The case for expanding Heathrow is undeniable. The airport operates at near capacity, with any disruption causing delays that ripple across the global aviation network. Additional capacity is needed. But the third runway is not a bold leap forward—it is an unimaginative compromise. The design is a relic of a bygone era when Britain was still willing to approve large infrastructure projects but had already begun its slow descent into cautious incrementalism. Surely for a solution we should be looking beyond the immediate horizon, daring to create something transformative.

Compare this to the grand infrastructure ambitions of Asia. Hong Kong’s Chek Lap Kok, which replaced the legendary but perilous Kai Tak airport in the 1990s, was built on reclaimed land. It was a marvel of engineering (mostly British), completed in just six years. Now, China is taking the concept even further: Dalian is constructing a floating airport, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This is a country that doesn’t simply accept geographic limitations—it overcomes them. Britain, meanwhile, is paralysed by protest groups, endless consultations, and political hand-wringing.

A floating airport in the Thames Estuary—an idea proposed and swiftly dismissed—would have been a statement of ambition. London could have had its own Chek Lap Kok, a world-class hub unencumbered by the constraints of Heathrow’s location. Instead, we are left with a piecemeal expansion of an outdated site, in a project that will take decades and still leave Britain trailing behind.

The environmental argument against expansion is often cited as a reason for delay, but it is a red herring. Modern aviation is rapidly advancing towards lower emissions and greater efficiency. If the concern is air pollution and carbon footprints, the answer is not to stifle airport expansion but to embrace new technology, support cleaner aviation fuels, and invest in modern air traffic management. Britain should be leading these efforts, not using environmental concerns as an excuse for stagnation.

The economic cost of our hesitation is immense. Aviation is a key driver of trade, tourism, and investment. Heathrow’s constraints mean we lose out to European rivals, with airlines shifting long-haul routes to Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. The third runway, even if built, will do little to reclaim lost ground. By the time it is operational—assuming it even survives the judicial challenges that will inevitably come—other nations will have long since surpassed us.

What Britain needs is a fundamental shift in mindset. We must stop viewing major infrastructure projects as necessary evils to be endured and start treating them as national priorities. This requires reforming our planning laws, streamlining approval processes, and fostering a political culture that celebrates engineering excellence rather than recoiling from it.

The third runway at Heathrow is not the answer—it is a symptom of our decline. Instead of an afterthought tacked onto an aging airport, we should be considering radical alternatives: offshore airports, high-speed rail integration to regional hubs, and a renewed commitment to infrastructure that places Britain at the forefront of global connectivity. We were once a nation that built the world’s most advanced transport networks, that pioneered engineering breakthroughs others only dreamed of. We can be that nation again—but only if we stop settling for mediocrity and start daring to think bigger.

The world is not waiting for Britain to catch up. While we squabble over a single new runway, China is building entire new airports on water. The contrast is stark, and the lesson is clear: boldness breeds success, hesitation ensures decline. If Britain truly wishes to remain a global player, we must abandon the timid incrementalism of the third runway and embrace the kind of audacity that once made us great.

Kit Malthouse 1st February 2025

Dan Jarvis' Christmas Message

Dan Jarvis (Barnsley North)

Christmas is a very special time. It's when we come together with friends and family to take stock, and give thanks for what we have.

Some years – in the best of times, this is cause for celebration.

Other years – it's more complicated if we're missing loved ones,
affected by illness, or facing money worries, homelessness, or loneliness.

Sometimes – let’s be honest, for many reasons, Christmas can just be about getting through it, and that's ok!

Because regardless of the year that’s been, or the circumstances you find yourself in, Christmas offers everyone a precious gift – hope.

Last week I was sworn in as the MP for South Shields for the fifth time, and each time it strikes me how incredibly honoured I feel that you have put your faith in me as the first female MP to represent you in Parliament. It was a truly historic night as the UK elected […]

The post It is the honour of my life to be re-elected as your MP for South Shields appeared first on Emma Lewell MP.

ICC FILES ARREST WARRANTS

Brendan O'Hara (Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber)

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