Working for you Campaign Correspondence A number of constituents regularly contact me with correspondence generated by a wide variety of campaign organisations. Where a number of constituents contact me about the same issue, a response will be posted on my website and those who contact me will be referred to the website. Labour’s Plan for Small Business 30 November 2023 On 29th November, Labour launched its Plan for Small Business which outlines the ways in which Labour will support small businesses and address the challenges they face, as highlighted in conversations with small business owners. Jonathan Reynolds MP, Shadow Minister for Business and Trade, will be taking the plan on tour to listen to the experiences of small business owners and gather feedback. If you run an SME, you can click here to complete the form to be invited to a future event. Safe Access Zones 27 November 2023 Please click here to view a response from Chris Philp MP, Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Fire, regarding Safe Access Zones around abortion clinics. Everton Points Deduction 22 November 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about the decision to deduct Everton ten points for breaching Premier League Financial Fair Play rules. I have raised this matter with the Premier League and will put a copy of their response on my website once received. I have also signed EDM 79 condemning the points deduction. The EDM and a list of signatories can be viewed here. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Community Letter 20 November 2023 As part of their 500,000 Reasons Why campaign, Takeda, along with 30 other members of the IBD community, have sent a letter to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. This letter calls on the Government to implement changes to improve care outcomes for those with IBD, a disease which is often overlooked, and to ensure that it is afforded parity with the six conditions mentioned in the Major Conditions Strategy. It specifically requests that clinical leadership is strengthened with the reinstitution of a national clinical director for gastroenterology and liver disease; that healthcare system accountability is ensured through targets for IBD; and that routine assessments of disparities of IBD are established. For more information about Takeda’s 500,000 Reasons Why campaign, please click here. Sutton Trust US Programme 17 November 2023 Applications for the Sutton Trust US Programme are now open. This programme offers Year 12 students an opportunity to explore what it is like to study in the US and provides further support to those who wish to apply to a university in the US. Applications are open until Sunday 14th January. For more information, please click here. Emergency Energy Tariff in the Autumn Statement 17 November 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me calling on the government to introduce an Emergency Energy Tariff. I raised this matter with HM Treasury and have subsequently received a response which you can view here. Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) 13 November 2023 Please click here to view a response from Nigel Huddleston MP, Minister for International Trade, regarding the Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) provisions within the CPTPP. Heritage at Risk Register 2023 9 November 2023 Historic England have recently published the Heritage at Risk Register for 2023. This gives us a glimpse into the condition of historic places in England, including the places most at risk of being lost. In Knowsley constituency, there are 2 places on the register. For more information, please click here. Mandatory Food Labelling on Animal Products 9 November 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer MP, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding mandatory food labelling on animal products. Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) 9 November 2023 Please click here to view a response from Claire Coutinho MP, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, regarding the UK's membership of the ECT. Use of Animals in Science 8 November 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Sharpe of Epsom, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Home Office, regarding the use of animals in science. Ban on Live Exports 2 November 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer MP, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding a ban on the live export of horses, donkeys and ponies. Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis Parliamentary Event 27 October 2023 I recently attended an event in Parliament held by Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis (APF), who are campaigning for people affected by pulmonary fibrosis. This disease, which progressively scars your lungs, currently has no cure. Many people miss out on the necessary support and treatments due to late diagnosis; more needs to be done to change this and to support those living with the disease. APF aim to raise awareness of the disease, campaign to improve access to care, and ultimately find a cure through funding research. They provide support to those affected by pulmonary fibrosis – for information or support, you can contact them via telephone on 01223 785 725 or via email at supportline@actionpf.org. Support for Pubs (Autumn Statement) 26 October 2023 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding support for beer and pubs ahead of the Autumn Statement. Farmed Fish 23 October 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer MP, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding the welfare of farmed fish. APPG on Minimally Invasive Cancer Therapies Parliamentary Event 23 October 2023 I recently attended a parliamentary event concerning minimally invasive cancer therapies (MICTs), calling on the UK Government and NHS England to enable patient choice through increased awareness of MICTs, to guarantee appropriate processes and infrastructure to deliver MICTs, and to ensure that ICSs adhere to national guidance on MICTs. Benefit Sanctions 20 October 2023 Please click here to view a response from Guy Opperman MP, Minister for Employment, regarding benefit sanctions. Metropolitan Police’s Relationship with the Royals (Updated) 19 October 2023 The Home Affairs Committee has said that its remit is to examine Home Office policy, administration and expenditure, and it has no plans to launch an inquiry into this area. Please click here to view a response from the Mayor’s Office for Policing And Crime (MOPAC) regarding the Metropolitan Police’s relationship with the royals. Ban Live Exports Event 19 October 2023 I recently attended a parliamentary event regarding live exports from Great Britain, specifically calling for a ban of live exports for slaughter or fattening, as well as a ban on the import of puppies and kittens under 6 months and of dogs with cropped ears. This event followed the delivery of a petition with over 95,000 signatures to Downing Street last month, asking the Prime Minister to deliver a ban on live exports. Whilst other countries have taken action on this issue, the UK Government has failed to make progress; the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill was dropped by the UK government in May 2023 despite strong support from animal welfare organisations. Train Station Ticket Office Closures 18 October 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Harper MP, Secretary of State for Transport, regarding train station ticket office closures. UN Loss and Damage Fund 13 October 2023 Please click here to view a response from Andrew Mitchell MP, Minister for Development and Africa, regarding the UN Loss and Damage Fund. American Bully XL Dogs 12 October 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Benyon, Minister for Biosecurity, Marine and Rural Affairs, regarding American Bully XL dogs. Pricing of Medicines 9 October 2023 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince MP, Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care, regarding the pricing of medicines. World Cerebral Palsy Day 6 October 2023 6th October 2023 is World Cerebral Palsy Day. Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a lifelong neurological condition which affects a person’s movement and other aspects of their health, learning, communication, social participation and wellbeing. Although there are a significant number of people in the UK living with CP (approximately 130,000 adults and 30,000 children), there is a lack of recognition of their needs, and of the challenges that they face. There is also no clear plan to address these challenges. Action Cerebral Palsy (ACP) is a charity which aims to raise awareness of these issues and provide information and advice; you can read more about ACP and find their reports here. Please click here and here to view guides by ACP on spotting the early signs of CP. ‘World Class Heritage, Second Class Pay’ Campaign 5 October 2023 Prospect union have recently launched the ‘World Class Heritage, Second Class Pay’ campaign for fair pay in the heritage sector to highlight the current pay crisis. Although the heritage sector generates significant revenue for the UK economy, pay in this field is much lower than comparably skilled workers in other industries. This pay crisis is further exacerbated by high inflation and the cost of living crisis, and it not only negatively impacts workers in the sector, but also risks the future of British cultural heritage and research. Prospect are campaigning for improved funding for pay levels, greater flexibility on pay and conditions, and for meaningful pay progression mechanisms. Please click here to find out more about the ‘World Class Heritage, Second Class Pay’ campaign by Prospect. Defibrillator Fund Application 29 September 2023 The application process has been launched by the Government for the Community Automated External Defibrillators (AED) fund. To receive funding, community organisations will be asked to demonstrate that defibrillators will be placed in areas where they are most needed, such as rural areas, places with high footfall or spaces for vulnerable people. Examples include town halls, community centres, local shops, post offices and local parks. The defibrillator grant will provide at least 1,000 new defibrillators for community spaces across England. Each new defibrillator will be externally mounted to enable 24 hour access by members of the public. Defibrillators provide vital treatment, with latest research showing that use of these devices within three to five minutes of a cardiac arrest increases the chance of survival by over 40%. Please click here to apply. Tackling Loneliness and Building Community 28 September 2023 The British Red Cross, alongside 13 leading sector partners, have developed a ‘Call to Action’ with recommendations for the next government for tackling loneliness. These include renewing national leadership on loneliness through the reappointment of a dedicated Minister for Loneliness, as well as setting out clear objectives backed by funding and developed by people with lived experience. Please click here to find out more about the Call to Action and its recommendations. Breast Cancer Awareness Month - 'Real Self-Checkout' Campaign 28 September 2023 During October, Asda is hoping to raise awareness of the symptoms of breast cancer and raise donations as part of their ‘Real Self-Checkout’ campaign, together with Breast Cancer Now and CoppaFeel!, through their Tickled Pink partnership. Breast Cancer Now and CoppaFeel! recommend that everyone has a look and feel of their chest, up to their collarbone and under their armpit, on a regular basis, and to see a GP if they notice a change. Please click here to find out more about the campaign, and the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Kinship Care Week 28 September 2023 Kinship carers are relatives or family friends who step up to raise a child whose parents are not able to care for them. Historically, kinship carers have received little financial and emotional support, advice, or training. However, the Government have now committed to the first ever National Kinship Strategy, which will be published at the end of 2023. For more information or support, please click here. Kinship Care Week (2-8 October) aims to increase visibility of children raised in kinship care and celebrate the enormous efforts and sacrifices of those caring for them. Please click here to find out more about Kinship Care Week. School Food 27 September 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Rt Hon Nick Gibb, Minister for Schools, regarding school food. Fairness for Carers 27 September 2023 Please click here to view a response from Tom Pursglove, Minister of State for Disabled People, Health and Work, regarding the 'Fairness for Carers: Reform the Carer's Allowance Process' petition. Migraine Awareness Week 26 September 2023 Migraine is an often overlooked and misunderstood condition that affects millions of people across the UK, having a significant impact on their daily lives. The Migraine Trust has recently published a new report highlighting the shortcomings in migraine care, especially in terms of accessing diagnoses and treatments, and the consequences of the delay in receiving support. In this report, they call for an improvement to migraine care, including through increasing the availability of specialists and providing more training for GPs, among other recommendations. Please click here to find out more about the condition and about Migraine Awareness Week 2023 (24-30 September). Running On Empty Campaign – Young Lives Vs Cancer 13 September 2023 I recently attended an event outside Parliament for the Running On Empty petition, which was later handed into Downing Street. The petition urges the Government to set up a Young Cancer Patient Travel Fund to help children and young people with the travel costs for their essential treatment. You can find out more about the campaign here. Vascular Awareness Month 13 September 2023 Vascular disease is a condition affecting the circulatory system. Those with the condition may suffer from prolonged wounds, which the body struggles to heal due to poor circulation. Please click here to view an infographic from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Vascular and Venous Disease to find out more about the condition and its hidden challenges. World Suicide Prevention Day 10 September 2023 World Suicide Prevention Day will take place on Sunday 10 September. This World Suicide Prevention Day, the focus is on highlighting the importance of the language we use when we talk about suicide, especially when asking someone you're worried about if they're suicidal. It’s important to talk and write about suicide safely and responsibly. For more information please click here. NHS Consultant's Pay 8 September 2023 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince, Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care, regarding NHS Consultant's pay. The Prince's Foundation 8 September 2023 Please click here to view a response from Chris Philp, Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Fire, regarding the handling of the investigation by the Metropolitan Police into allegations involving the Prince’s Foundation. The Sovereign Grant 5 September 2023 Please click here to view a response from Gareth Davies, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, regarding the Sovereign Grant. Metropolitan Police’s Relationship with the Royals 31 August 2023 The Home Affairs Committee has said that its remit is to examine Home Office policy, administration and expenditure, and it has no plans to launch an inquiry into this area. Animal Testing 30 August 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Sharpe of Epsom OBE, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Home Office, regarding the regulatory safety testing of cosmetic ingredients on animals. Mileage Allowance 29 August 2023 Please click here to view a response from Gareth Davies, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, regarding mileage allowance. Train Station Ticket Office Closures 24 August 2023 I have recently written to the Secretary of State for Transport, Mark Harper, and the CEO of Northern Rail, Tricia Williams, raising concerns about proposals to close approximately 1000 train station ticket offices nationally, and 131 across the north. You can view a copy of the letters here and here, and I will put a copy of any responses received on my website. Statement - George Howarth MP GP Services in Knowsley Village 11 August 2023 Over the last nine months or so I have, together with a group of local residents, been in discussions with the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care System (ICS), the body responsible for commissioning GP services in Knowsley, about the legitimate concerns patients in Knowsley Village have regarding the GP services currently provided by Aston Healthcare. On Thursday Cathy Sweeney and I had a positive meeting with representatives of the ICS, following which they have provided me with the following statement which outlines a way forward arising out of their discussions with Aston Healthcare. “NHS Cheshire and Merseyside has been in ongoing discussion with Aston Healthcare Ltd regarding improvement actions the provider wishes to take to ensure safe, sustainable and accessible services across its GP practice sites in Knowsley. Both Aston Healthcare Ltd and NHS Cheshire and Merseyside have agreed through these discussions that there is a need to ensure and retain access to medical service provision in the Knowsley Village locality. NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is currently awaiting detailed proposals from Aston Healthcare Ltd in respect of its overall improvement plans but can confirm that, should these plans include any proposal to close the branch site surgery in Knowsley Village, that steps would be taken to ensure that patients will continue to be able to access GP practice services in the locality. Any such change to GP services in the Knowsley Village locality would be managed in line with national guidance and duties to involve patients in decision-making through appropriate engagement and formal consultation as required.” Cathy and I believe that the approach the ICS are taking offers a positive way forward which would ensure a continuing GP service in Knowsley Village together with improvements to the service available at present. Cathy has, on behalf of concerned patients, made the following comments: “I am very pleased at the progress George and I have made in our efforts to bring about improvements in the inadequate GP service we have in Knowsley Village at present. Although we have not reached a final conclusion, the ICS’s approach, I believe, is a welcome acknowledgement of the concerns patients in Knowsley Village have about the service provided by Aston Healthcare and I am grateful for the work they have carried out. Hopefully, we are very close to a solution which will work for us. George and I will, once we have got a formal positive conclusion to the problem, let people know.” Major Conditions Strategy (Dementia) 10 August 2023 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Social Care, regarding dementia and the Government's Major Conditions Strategy. Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) 9 August 2023 Please click here to view a response from Richard Holden, Minister for Roads and Local Transport, regarding the Lower Thames Crossing (LTC). Income Tax Self Assessment 9 August 2023 Please click here to view a response from Victoria Atkins, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, regarding income tax self assessment. Local Authority Funding 8 August 2023 Please click here to view a response from John Glen, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, regarding local authority funding. Deep Seabed Mining 27 July 2023 Please see below a response from David Lammy, Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, regarding deep seabed mining. I appreciate the important concerns you raise and agree with you on this vital issue. I believe we need a precautionary pause on this practice until and unless there is clear scientific evidence it can be done safely and the marine environment can be effectively protected by new regulation. There is growing pressure for the mining of deep sea resources due to a significant increase in the minerals we will need over the next few decades. Yet we know mining in the deep sea will cause adverse impacts to the environment. An independent expert review commissioned by the Government and published in October 2022, for example, noted that deep sea ecosystems are considered to be particularly sensitive to disturbance, with recovery not evident over decades in test areas and with bigger commercial-scale impacts expected to last centuries. I therefore back calls for the UK to join France, Germany, Switzerland, New Zealand, Spain, Chile, Ecuador, Vanuatu, Costa Rica and others, as well as businesses including BMW, Renault, Google, Samsung and Philips, in supporting a moratorium on deep sea mining. I know that the Government has been asked a number of questions in the House of Commons on this issue in recent months. In response, it states that its policy is “not to sponsor or support the issuing of any exploitation licences for deep sea mining projects unless and until there is sufficient scientific evidence about the potential impact on deep sea ecosystems and strong enforceable environmental regulations, standards and guidelines have been developed by the ISA [International Seabed Authority] and are in place”. It further states that it is “fully engaged” in ongoing negotiations to agree deep sea mining exploitation regulations. I am concerned that this means it has rejected calls for a precautionary pause and I can therefore assure you that I will continue to support efforts to press it on this issue. Yours sincerely, Rt Hon David Lammy MP Member of Parliament for Tottenham Farmed Fish 27 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding farmed fish welfare. Caged Farm Animals 25 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding the caging of farmed animals. Cost of Living 21 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from John Glen, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, regarding the cost of living. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 21 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad, Minister of State for the Middle East, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Pancreatic Cancer 20 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince, Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care, regarding pancreatic cancer and the major conditions strategy. Digital Pound 20 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Andrew Griffith, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, regarding the digital pound (Central Bank Digital Currency). School and Further Education Funding 20 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Gillian Keegan, Secretary of State for Education, regarding school and further education funding. Boys Need Bins Campaign 19 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Rebecca Pow, Minister for Environmental Quality and Resilience, regarding the Boys Need Bins Campaign led by Prostate Cancer UK and Bladder Health UK. Live Animal Exports 18 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding live animal exports. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (Imports) 18 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad, Minister of State for the Middle East, regarding the importation of goods from illegal Israeli settlements. Group B Strep Awareness Month 17 July 2023 I recently attended a parliamentary event for Group B Strep Awareness Month. Group B Streptococcus is the most common cause of life-threatening infection in newborn babies, causing serious infections including sepsis, pneumonia and meningitis. Group B Strep Support believes that increasing awareness of group B Strep and its impact, as well as providing better training and support to midwives for informing parents about the issue, could help to prevent many cases. Please click here to find out more. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (Healthcare) 14 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad, Minister of State for the Middle East, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Abortion Services 13 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Maria Caulfield, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Mental Health and Women's Health Strategy, regarding abortion services. Age UK 13 July 2023 I recently attended Age UK’s Summer Reception and launch of their new report, which considers the ‘State of Health and Care for Older People in 2023’. Age UK highlight the challenges faced by our health system in meeting the needs of our growing older population and propose prevention and early intervention as solutions. You can read the report here. Royal Mail Customer Service Point (CSP) 10 July 2023 Please click here to read about changes to the opening hours of Royal Mail CSPs from Monday 10 July. Versus Arthritis 7 July 2023 I recently attended an event hosted by Versus Arthritis in parliament to discuss the challenges faced by those living with arthritis. In my constituency alone, there are 15,000 people diagnosed with arthritis. For more information, please click here. IOP Limit Less Campaign 7 July 2023 I recently attended the Institute of Physics inaugural Limit Less parliamentary event. The aim of the campaign is to support more young people into physics. For more information, please click here. Deep Seabed Mining 7 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Nusrat Ghani, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade and the Cabinet Office, regarding deep seabed mining. High Street Rental Auctions 4 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Dehenna Davison, Minister for Levelling Up, regarding High Street Rental Auctions (HSRA) and proposals for Permitted Development Rights (PDR). Community Defibrillator Fund 3 July 2023 Organisations across England are being invited to bid for a share of £1 million of government funding to buy life-saving defibrillators for community spaces. As part of the grant award, applicants will be asked to demonstrate that defibrillators will be placed in areas where they are most needed, such as places with high footfall, vulnerable people, rural areas, or due to the nature of activity at the site. Examples could include town halls, community centres, local shops, post offices and local parks, to ensure that defibrillators are evenly spread throughout communities and easily accessible if someone is experiencing an unexpected cardiac arrest. Organisations who submit an expression of interest will be notified once grant applications open to the Department of Health and Social Care’s £1m Community AED Fund Organisations can submit an expression of interest here. Access to Nature 3 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Trudy Harrison, Minister for Natural Environment and Land Use, regarding access to nature. Caged Farm Animals 3 July 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding caged farm animals. FurFreeBritain Campaign 28 June 2023 I recently attended an event in parliament to support the launch of the Humane Society International/UK report on 'Fur's Dirty Footprint', which outlines the environmental impact of fur production. For more information about the FurFreeBritain Campaign, please click here. SIGOMA Fairer Funding Campaign 22 June 2023 I recently attended an event in parliament to support the launch of the SIGOMA Fairer Funding campaign, which calls for a new funding settlement for local authorities across England. Since 2013, there has been a shift in the way local authorities are financed. The structures that support a fair distribution of funds distributed centrally have been replaced by ones that tend to reward high value housing stock and a large and thriving business rate base. As a result, the proportion of funding from Government by grants has reduced, whilst the amount raised from local taxes has increased. This has benefited the wealthiest areas who rely less on grant funding and who raise more from council tax, business rates and other growth based local funding sources. Councils now receive £4,580 million less in grant and retained rates than is raised through the business rate system. In 2013-14, they received £4,930 million more – this is a reversal of £9,510 million. Knowsley and other local authorities in the Liverpool City Region have been the worst affected in the UK. We urgently need a new funding system that properly considers the needs of local authorities such as Knowsley. For more information, please click here. Loneliness 16 June 2023 I am supporting the Marmalade Trust/Red Cross campaign to raise awareness about loneliness and show support for those experiencing it. More than 9 million people in the UK say they feel lonely some or most of the time. Without the right support at the right time, loneliness can move from a temporary feeling to a chronic state and damage our physical and mental health. For advice on loneliness support, The Red Cross provide a free and confidential support line on 0808 196 3651. For 24-hour support, call the Samaritans on 116 123 . For more information about the campaign, please click here. Healthy Start Uptake 16 June 2023 Healthy Start provides pregnant women, or pre-school aged children, in low-income households with a weekly payment to spend on healthy foods. It also provides a vital nutritional safety net to ensure that low-income children have access to healthy food in the crucial years before they start school. The Food Foundation and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) have published new constituency-level data for Healthy Start uptake in England. In Knowsley, the current uptake is 64.4%, with the monthly value lost estimated to be £13,186. I am supporting Emma Lewell-Buck’s Bill, which proposes that eligible families are auto-enrolled in the scheme (with an opt-out provided where preferred) to ensure that all eligible children and pregnant women can easily access the scheme. For more information about the scheme, please click here. British Society for Rheumatology 'People We Need' Campaign 16 June 2023 I recently attended a parliamentary reception hosted by the British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) who are currently campaigning to grow the rheumatology workforce in the UK. Rheumatologists play a vital role in improving the quality of life for children and adults living with rheumatological conditions. However, there is currently a shortage of rheumatologists and nurse specialists in the UK which is negatively impacting patient care. To address the shortage, BSR has recommended an additional 115 Whole Time Equivalent (WTE) rheumatology consultants, 238 WTE specialist rheumatology nurses and 10 WTE paediatric rheumatology consultants in England. BSR’s new health economics research shows that growing the rheumatology workforce would reduce the overall societal and health costs of incident Rheumatoid Arthritis by an estimated £50 million over 5 years. Furthermore, it would significantly improve the health outcomes of patients at a minimal cost to the NHS, amounting to £152 per incident Rheumatoid Arthritis patient over 5 years. For more information, please click here. Abbott Diabetes Event 14 June 2023 I recently attended the Abbott Diabetes Glucose Sensing Technology Reception to see what has been achieved in type 1 diabetes care and to learn more about future opportunities to transform type 2 diabetes care. Cosmetic Animal Testing 8 June 2023 Please click here to view a response from Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Lord Sharpe of Epsom OBE, regarding cosmetic animal testing. International Debt 23 May 2023 Please click here to view a response from Andrew Griffith MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, regarding international debt. Right to Protest 22 May 2023 Please click here to view a response from Chris Philp MP, Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Fire, regarding the right to protest. Active Travel 5 May 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Transport, Jesse Norman, regarding funding for active travel. Drax and Biomass Sustainability Subsidies 3 May 2023 Please click here to view a response from Graham Stuart, Minister of State at the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, regarding Drax and Biomass Sustainability subsidies. PCC Summer Youth Diversion Fund 3 May 2023 The Police and Crime Commissioner for Merseyside has launched the Summer Youth Diversion Fund. Community groups who can provide safe and engaging activities for young people during the school summer holidays are being invited to bid for a share of £110,000 from the fund. The money will be used to provide safe, engaging, positive activities, with the aim of helping to reduce crime and ASB which often spikes when the schools close, while also providing meals to ensure young people are not going without during the six-week break. For more information, please click here. Personal Independence Payments 27 April 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me to ask the Labour Party to review the process for Personal Independence Payments (PIP). I raised my constituents’ concerns with the Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Jonathan Ashworth, and received the following response: 'Thank you for contacting me recently about the need to reform the assessment process for disability benefits. For many months, Labour has been putting forward our plan to help people back to work, while the government dithered and delayed leaving hundreds of thousands of people without the support they want and need. Labour has set out reforms to disability benefit assessments to help people move into work where they want to and can. Following our lead, the government now want to abolish the toxic work capability test, but they have failed to explain what will replace it. Ministers should adopt the proposals I outlined earlier this year to offer a bridge back to sickness benefits for those who try work without the need to undergo again a Work Capability Assessment. I believe that the social security system should support, not hinder, people’s journey into work. However, I am concerned that under this Government, too often the system disincentivises work and makes even trying it too much of a risk. I want to see a social security system that tackles the poverty and inequality disabled people face, including the increased costs they have to deal with, compared to non-disabled people. The future of disability benefits should also provide appropriate support to those who can’t work and help those who can access high-quality jobs and good training opportunities. Doing so will allow everyone to fulfil their potential. I know that disabled people and those with serious health issues want and deserve support and reassurance in work and out of it. Labour are committed to reforming the benefit assessment process and working together with disabled people and disabled people’s organisations to do so'. Cost of Living for Families with Disabled Children 27 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen, regarding the cost of living for families with disabled children. Sarcoma Awareness 27 April 2023 I recently met with Sarcoma UK to discuss the work they are doing to raise awareness of the challenges faced by younger people diagnosed with Sarcoma. Sarcomas are uncommon cancers that can affect any part of the body. There are many different types of sarcoma, but they can be grouped into soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas. Sarcoma is the third most common cancer amongst young people in the UK, with a child, teenager or young adult (age 0-24) being diagnosed with sarcoma every day. More needs to be done to support young people living with Sarcoma and to improve their experience through specialised services and research. For more information, please click here. Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill 27 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Benyon, Minister for Biosecurity, Marine and Rural Affairs, regarding cat theft and the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill. A Commissioner for Older People and Ageing 27 April 2023 I am supporting calls from Independent Age, the Centre for Ageing Better, Age UK and the National Pensioners Convention for a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing. A Commissioner for Older People and Ageing could cost just 7p per taxpayer, and would help bring about significant savings in public spending. Research by Loughborough University, commissioned by Independent Age in 2020, showed that if every older person who is eligible to receive Pensione Credit received it, there would be a £4 billion cost saving to our health and care system. This just one example of the savings a Commissioner could help to bring about. For more information, please click here. Alternative Student Finance 25 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from Gillian Keegan, Secretary of State for Education, regarding alternative student finance options for Muslim students. British Sign Language Training Provision 25 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from Claire Coutinho, Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing, regarding training provision for the parents of deaf children, and the need for improved communication between deaf people and those who can hear. Caged Hens 24 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding the welfare of caged hens. Minimum Income Guarantee 19 April 2022 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding the minimum income guarantee. Voter ID - Local Elections From 4th May 2023, people will need photo identification to vote at polling stations. The deadline to apply for free photo identification for the local elections on 4th May, in the form of a Voter Authority Certificate, is 5pm on 25th April. Please click here to apply. UK Emissions Trading Scheme 14 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from Graham Stuart, Minister of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, regarding the UK Emissions Trading Scheme. Onshore Wind and Planning 14 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from Rachel Maclean, Minister of State for Housing and Planning, regarding onshore wind and planning. Illegal Migration 13 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from Robert Jenrick, Minister of State for Immigration, regarding illegal migration. Pre-payment Meters 13 April 2023 Please click here to view a response from Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, regarding pre-payment meters. Caged Hens 31 March 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about the caging of hens. I have raised this matter with the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and will put a copy of her response on my website upon receipt. Sustainable Palm Oil 31 March 2023 I recently met with Ferrero UK and their partners, Chester Zoo, along with the Orangutan Land Trust, to learn more about the importance of sustainable palm oil. For more information, please click here. Energy Efficiency in Homes 30 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Callanan, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, regarding measures to improve energy efficiency within homes. Protections for Farmed Fish 28 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, regarding protections for farmed fish. Parkinsons and the Cost of Living 27 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Amanda Solloway, Minister for Energy Consumers & Affordability, regarding Parkinsons and the increased cost of living. NHS Pay 24 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince, Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care, regarding NHS pay. Social Tariffs for Broadband and Mobile Packages 17 March 2023 Internet Service Providers and Mobile Network Operators are providing low-cost packages for those on low incomes. These packages are called Social Tariffs and are offered to people on Universal Credit as well as other means tested benefits. They start at £10 per month and can represent a saving of around £180 a year for eligible households. For more information, please click here. Private Rental Sector Reforms 16 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Rachel Maclean, Minister of State for Housing and Planning, regarding reforms to the private rental sector. Royal Mail Customer Service Point Closures 15 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Kevin Hollinrake, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business and Trade, regarding Royal Mail Customer Service Point closures. Mental Health Services for Young People 15 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Maria Caulfield, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Mental Health and Women’s Health Strategy, regarding support available to young people with mental health problems. Gambling Act Review 14 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Stuart Andrew, Minister of State for Sport, Gambling and Civic Society, regarding proposals for affordability checks as part of the Gambling Act Review. Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill 13 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries, Mark Spencer, regarding the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill. RSPCA Cost of Living Event 10 March 2023 I recently attended an RSPCA cost of living event at the House of Commons to better understand how to support struggling constituents and their pets. Almost 80 percent of RSPCA rescue officers have reported seeing animals suffering as a result of the cost of living crisis. I would urge anyone who is struggling with pet care and the cost of living crisis to use the resources the RSPCA has on offer to get the support they need. Pet owners can find a range of practical help and advice on the RSPCA’s cost of living hub. The charity has also launched a dedicated phone line for those looking for support (0300 123 0650). Approved Mileage Allowance Payments 10 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, James Cartlidge, regarding Approved Mileage Allowance Payments. No Recourse to Public Funds 9 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Immigration, Robert Jenrick, regarding the No Recourse to Public Funds policy. Public Order Bill 8 March 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Public Order Bill. You can view the progress of the Bill here and my voting record can be viewed here. Marie Curie Great Daffodil Appeal 6 March 2023 I recently met with Marie Curie to celebrate and raise awareness of the launch of the 37th Great Daffodil Appeal. The Great Daffodil Appeal is when the charity encourages supporters to wear their daffodil pins, make a donation, and take part in a collection to raise money which goes towards supporting both people affected by terminal illness, and those dealing with death, dying and bereavement. For more information, please click here. Windfall Tax on Banks 6 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Andrew Griffith, regarding suggestions for a windfall tax on banks. Import and Sale of Fur in the UK 3 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Benyon regarding the import and sale of fur in the UK. Local Housing Allowance 3 March 2023 Please click here to view a response from Mims Davies, Minister for Social Mobility, Youth and Progression, regarding the Local Housing Allowance. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2 March 2023 I was delighted to take part in this year’s Teal Heroes event with Target Ovarian Cancer to pledge my support and help raise awareness of ovarian cancer as part of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. 11 women die every day in the UK from ovarian cancer, and yet awareness of its key symptoms remains low. We must act now to ensure that everyone knows what to look out for, to make a lasting change for everyone affected by ovarian cancer. For more information please click here. Onshore Wind and Planning 28 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from Rachel Maclean, Minister of State for Housing and Planning, regarding onshore wind and planning. The Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Fund 27 February 2023 The Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Fund is now live. Households without a direct relationship to an electricity supplier, such as those living in park homes and care homes, can now apply via a secure online portal to receive the support as a one-off, non-repayable lump sum under the ‘alternative funding’ route of the government’s Energy Bills Support Scheme (EBSS AF). For those without online access, a dedicated customer helpline is available to assist eligible customers. For more information, please click here. Teacher Pay and Strikes 27 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from Nick Gibb, Minister for Schools, regarding teacher pay and strikes. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 27 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad regarding violence in the West Bank. Imports of Cats and Kittens 22 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Benyon regarding the imports of cats and kittens. Knowsley Incident - Urgent Question 21 February 2023 On 20 February I raised an urgent question in the House of Commons concerning the demonstration outside the Suites Hotel on 10 February 2023. A transcript can be viewed here. Royal Mail Customer Service Points 21 February 2023 Please click here and here to view responses from Dame Melanie Dawes, Chief Executive of OFCOM, and Royal Mail respectively regarding Royal Mail's plans for their Customer Service Points. E-Scooters 20 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Transport, Mark Harper, concerning the use of e-scooters. Civil Service Pay 20 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for the Cabinet Office, Jeremy Quin, regarding civil service pay. Statement - George Howarth MP 14 February 2023 Following the deeply worrying events in Knowsley last Friday, my immediate priority was two-fold. First, to point out that the incident reported on social media which triggered the demonstration was, at that point, under police investigation, as was the involvement of those arrested at the demonstration. My concern was that the police should be allowed to get on with their job to protect the community. Secondly, I wanted to make it clear that the violent and disorderly behaviour witnessed on Friday evening is not representative of the people of Kirkby, who are overwhelmingly decent, tolerant and not bigoted. That is not to say, however, that there are not legitimate concerns about the housing of refugees locally and more widely the way in which the government's asylum system is failing to deal with the situation in a timely and effective way. But, those concerns do not justify people taking the law into their own hands. The demonstration was promoted on social media by a number of far-right, racist organisations from outside of Knowsley such as Britain First, Yorkshire Rose and Patriotic Alternative. However, a worryingly large number of local people attended, 15 of whom have been arrested for their conduct. Those local people who turned up wearing balaclavas, with sledgehammers and incendiary devices, were clearly doing so with the intention of turning a demonstration into a violent event and there is no excuse for their violent behaviour. As the local MP, I have previously raised this issue in parliament and with government ministers, have met with the Chief Constable and on Saturday I spoke with the Immigration Minister, Robert Jenrick. I have expressed my view that people do have legitimate concerns that need to be addressed urgently. There is also the issue about how some social media platforms are being used by far-right groups from outside the area and some local people to peddle misleading and, in some cases unfounded, allegations, which are intended to create a false impression that male refugees accommodated locally are routinely approaching girls and children in wholly unacceptable ways. The two cases being circulated on social media are the only cases known to the police - one involving an alleged kidnap attempt of a child, which was investigated by police and judged to be unfounded, the other a young man allegedly making inappropriate advances to a fifteen-year-old girl. This has been investigated by the police and the male is no longer in the area. So far, the police have not been able to convince the Crown Prosecution Service that the evidence meets the standard required for a prosecution but the case remains under investigation. Other social media posts create the impression that the refugees are not truly fleeing from life threatening situations or danger due to their religion, sexuality or opposition to the political regime in their country. In fact, in the year to September 2022, 77% of applicants were granted asylum initially and 52% of appeals were also allowed. Further misinformation relates to the support asylum seekers receive. By law, asylum seekers are not allowed to work to support themselves. Where full-board accommodation is provided, asylum seekers receive £9.10 per week for all other costs. Where food is not provided with accommodation, £45 per person is provided to cover all necessities. The asylum application process can take years and people can be detained indefinitely. So, what should be done to resolve the situation? First and foremost, the government needs to get a grip of the asylum system, which does not serve our country, our community or, for that matter, the refugees. Asylum applications should be assessed much more speedily and effectively. Secondly, the government should review the use of hotels and work with local councils to find more appropriate ways to accommodate refugees. That process, however, should take into account the housing needs of local residents. Thirdly, people should be wary about social media posts - they are increasingly not only misleading and inaccurate but often deliberately intended to inflame people's views. There are significant challenges ahead and I am totally committed to working with the community, the police, Knowsley Council and the government to address them. I would, however, appeal to the people of Kirkby and Knowsley to be patient and allow this work to be taken forward. Missing Migrant Children 13 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from Robert Jenrick, Minister of State for Immigration, regarding reports of missing migrant children. Breed Specific Legislation 13 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Benyon, Minister for Biosecurity, Marine and Rural Affairs, regarding breed specific legislation. Statement - George Howarth MP 10 February 2023 I have referred an alleged incident posted on social media, which has triggered a demonstration outside the Suites Hotel, to Merseyside Police and Knowsley Council. Until the Police have investigated the matter, it is too soon to jump to conclusions and the effort on the part of some to inflame the situation is emphatically wrong. If an offence has been committed, the police should deal with it appropriately through due process. In addition, the misinformation about refugees being feather-bedded is untrue and intended to paint a picture that does not at all represent the facts. The people of Knowsley are not bigots and are welcoming to people escaping from some of the most dangerous places in the world in search of a place of safety. Those demonstrating against refugees at this protest tonight do not represent this community. We are not like that and overwhelmingly behave with sympathy and kindness to others regardless of where they come from. Defibrillators in Schools 10 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from Nick Gibb, Minister for Schools, regarding defibrillators in schools. Royal Mail Customer Service Points Closures 9 February 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me about plans to close Royal Mail Customer Service Points (CSPs) at local delivery offices, as well as reducing opening times. I have raised my constituents’ concerns with Ofcom, Royal Mail and the Secretary of State and will post copies of any substantive responses that I receive on my website. Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill 9 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack, regarding the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill. Ban Conversion Practices 9 February 2023 Please click here to view a response from Stuart Andrew, Minister for Equalities, regarding the government's proposals to ban conversion practices. National Waste Crime Survey 2023 8 February 2023 The Environment Agency’s National Waste Crime Survey 2023 is now open. Anyone who has been the victim of waste crime should compete the survey by Monday 27th February 2023, by visiting https://SystraLtd.welcomesyourfeedback.net/WasteCrime_EAComms. All responses are anonymous. If you see or suspect illegal waste activities, report it anonymously to Crimestoppers at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or call 0800 555 111. For more information about the survey please click here. Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill 2022 6 February 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me regarding the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bil 2022. As I chaired the Committee Stage of this Bill, I am not able to take part in any proceedings or votes related to it. Please click here if you wish to view a response from Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Business, Energy & lndustrial Strategy, regarding the Bill. Scope Social Tariff Campaign 3 February 2023 I have signed Scope’s cross-party letter calling on the Government to support disabled people by introducing a Social Tariff and bringing forward Cost-of-Living Payments. A copy of the letter can be viewed here. Sanofi Report - Driving Self-care 1 February 2023 Please click here to see a new report on driving self-care from Sanofi, following a roundtable I took part in last year. The report makes several important recommendations, including the need for Government to create a dedicated self-care strategy. NHS Pay 30 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince, Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care, regarding NHS pay. Holocaust Memorial Day 27 January 2023 This week, I signed the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Book of Commitment and, in doing so, I pledged my commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day and honouring those who were murdered during the Holocaust as well as paying tribute to the extraordinary Holocaust survivors who work tirelessly to educate young people today. Holocaust Memorial Day falls on 27th January every year, the anniversary of the liberation of the infamous former Nazi concentration and death camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, in 1945 and is an important opportunity for people to reflect on the darkest times of European history. For more information, please click here. Carer's Leave Bill 27 January 2023 I am supporting a new Private Member’s Bill, which could see millions of unpaid carers who are looking after older, disabled or seriously ill relatives better supported in the workplace. I recently attended a Westminster event hosted by the bill sponsor, Wendy Chamberlain MP, and national charity Carers UK, where I met unpaid carers and employers, Centrica and TSB, who have supportive workplace policies for unpaid carers, to better understand their experiences of Carer’s Leave and to discuss the Carer’s Leave Bill currently being considered in Parliament. If successful in its passage through both Houses of Parliament, the Carer’s Leave Bill would see employees across Great Britain gain a landmark new right to take up to one week of unpaid Carer’s Leave. For more information, please click here. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 26 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. NHS Winter Planning 24 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince, Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care, regarding the NHS and winter planning. Public Order Bill 23 Janaury 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Public Order Bill. The Government has a responsibility to protect historic rights to peaceful protest and to safeguard our vital national infrastructure including our NHS from dangerous and seriously disruptive protests. This Bill fails on both counts – it is far too widely drawn and targets peaceful protestors and passers by, and it fails to include the sensible measures that councils, the police, businesses and the NHS need to prevent dangerous and seriously disruptive protests. That is why Labour will oppose it at third reading. This is the Conservatives second bill on protest in twelve months even though they have shelved the much needed Victims Law and the much needed Online Safety Bill. The Conservatives have drawn it up to pursue political divides rather than to solve practical problems. Labour is clear that in a democracy freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and historic rights to protest run alongside the rights of people to go about their daily lives, the right to be free from harassment or intimidation and the vital need to ensure that essential public services and infrastructure on which we all rely are not seriously disrupted. The police and courts already have powers to deal with serious disruption or dangerous protests including injunctions, offences such as obstruction of a highway, criminal damage, aggravated trespass, and public nuisance, as well as being able to apply conditions to processions and static protests that people can be arrested for breaching. Those powers have been used frequently to deal with recent disruptive protests including locking on and blocking roads. But rather than taking sensible measures to ensure that the police, councils and businesses can take action and use powers effectively against dangerous and disruptive protests this Bill instead targets peaceful protesters and passers-by, for example giving the police incredibly broad new powers to stop and search anyone in the vicinity of a protest. Independent reports have found that the police are often not properly trained or resourced to deal with protests. This Bill does not include provisions for cooperation between police, public and private authorities to improve resilience of vital services and prevent serious disruption. The most effective measures already for preventing serious disruption are injunctions but the real problem can be delays in seeking injunctions, lack of preparation, planning and coordination between different private and public authorities. It is also important to safeguard the right to protest, through which so many of our historic freedoms and progress has been won – but again this Bill fails to do so. The powers it introduces are too widely drawn, and would penalise peaceful protestors and passers-by. It includes proposals for people to be stopped and searched if they are in the vicinity of a noisy protest for example a town centre protest against the closure of a local library or leisure centre, or people passing through Parliament Square when a demonstration is expected. And it would allow restrictions to be placed on who people can meet up with even if they have never been convicted of a crime. Labour has a common-sense approach to these issues. We put forward sensible proposals to support police with their existing powers, to create fast-track buffer zones outside schools and vaccine clinics to protest from dangerous anti-vaxxers, we’ve supported buffer zones to prevent harassment outside abortion clinics and called for rapid action to get injunctions in place to protect vital national infrastructure against serious disruption. We have consistently opposed measures that would instead target peaceful protest and passers-by. On the issue of the new Bill of Rights, Labour is proud of our country’s role in developing human rights at home and abroad. During the Second World War, Winston Churchill set out a vision of a post-war world united by common rights and freedoms that formed the basis of the human rights we enjoy today. Human Rights are a simple, but powerful idea. All of us – whatever our background, wealth, faith, gender or colour – have human rights that must be defended. The British public has always believed in the value of fairness, freedom and responsibility that human rights defend. Human rights protect individuals from the state and powerful organisations and we cannot take them for granted. Labour will oppose any attempt by the government to undermine our human rights. It is not clear whether the content of the Bill will change when it is reintroduced. Please be assured that I am aware of the strength of feeling around this issue and will continue to raiser concerns the opportunities arise. I have previously written to the Secretary of State for Justice on this matter and the response can be viewed here. Sutton Trust Summer Schools 20 January 2023 Sutton Trust Summer Schools have announced their programme for 2023. The summer schools give young people from less advantaged backgrounds the opportunity to attend a residential summer school at a leading university. The summer schools are open to Year 12 students and give them a chance to explore higher and degree-level apprenticeships during three-day residentials. For more information, please click here. Fur, Foie Gras and Hunting Trophies 20 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lord Benyon, Minister for Biosecurity, Marine and Rural Affairs, regarding fur, foie gras and hunting trophies. Dementia Diagnosis Rates 17 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding dementia diagnosis rates. GP Services and NHS Funding 13 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Neil O'Brien, Under Secretary of State for Primary Care and Public Health, regarding GP Services and NHS Funding. Government Anti-Strike Legislation 9 January 2023 A number of constituents have contacted me about government legislation designed to make it harder for workers to take strike action. I can emphatically assure them that I will not support any legislation intended to inhibit workers' right to take strike action. Investment Zones 9 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Lee Rowley, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Local Government and Building Safety. Unpaid Carers 3 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding support for unpaid carers. Cancer Services 3 January 2023 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding cancer services. The Retained EU Law Bill 3 January 2023 I Chaired the Committee Stage of the Retained EU Law Bill and, consequently, am not permitted to comment on it. You may be interested, however, in the Hansard transcript of the Committee Stage which can be found here. In addition, you might find Labour's position on the Bill of interest. A response to the Bill from Labour's Shadow Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, can be found here. I hope this is helpful. NHS Pay 23 December 2022 Many constituents have contacted my office concerning the government's refusal to negotiate NHS staff pay. I raised my concerns with the Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay, on 21 December, and I will put a copy of his response on my webiste upon receipt. NHS Patient Data 23 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Markham regarding the Federated Data Platform. Alleged Leak of the IP Chapter Text from the UK-India FTA 23 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for International Trade, Kemi Badenoch, regarding the alleged leak of the intellectual property (IP) chapter text from the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Environmental Protections 16 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from Trudy Harrison, Minister for Natural Enviornment and Land Use, regarding environmental protections. Medical Technology 12 December 2022 I recently attended an event, hosted by the Medical Technology Group, in the House of Commons which brought together NHS leaders, parliamentarians and patients to showcase the best innovation and technology currently being used on the NHS to tackle the backlog and help it recover from the pandemic. The Medical Technology Group argues that medical technology is key, not just to recovering from the pandemic, but also in tackling the future challenges of the health service. It is now calling for greater government funding for medtech, including a scheme to share the spread of innovation and technology across the health service, after their latest report found some regions were treating up to three times as many patients as others. For more information, please click here. Guide Dogs' Open Doors Campaign 12 December 2022 I recently met with the charity 'Guide Dogs' and guide dog ownes to discuss their experiences of being illegally turned away because they had their guide dog with them. Recent research conducted by Guide Dogs found that 81% of guide dog owners have been refused access to a restaurant, shop, or taxi at some point because they were with their dog. And of these people, almost three in four (73%) said they experienced an access refusal at least once in the past 12 months. These refusals have a significant negative impact on the confidence, independence and wellbeing of people who have guide dogs. Guide Dogs’ Open Doors campaign aims to raise awareness of the rights assistance dog owners have, and the need for better enforcement and clearer laws. For more information, please click here. Unpaid Carers Petition 12 December 2022 Disability Talk have created a new activist organisation called National Carers Voice, which aims to provide the UK's 13m unpaid carers with a voice. Unpaid carers often feel forgotten, hidden away and generally left on their own to cope with the day-to-day burden of caring for loved ones. National Carers Voice have launched a petition calling on the government to introduce an annual fund of £25million to fund mini-breaks for unpaid carers which are so important for both physical and mental health. You can view the petition here. Scope 9 December 2022 I recently met with @Scope, the APPG for Disability, and members of the disabled community to discuss the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. I look forward to working further with Scope and the community to ensure better support for disabled people. You can read Scope’s report on the cost-of-living crisis here. Use of Animals in Science 9 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Sharpe regarding the use of animals in science. 'Don't be Electricked' 9 December 2022 Electric Safety First have launched their 'Don't be Electricked' campaign, which aims to close a deadly loophole that allows dangerous goods to be sold to UK shoppers through online marketplaces. For more information, please click here. Seafarers' Wages Bill 9 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from Baroness Vere, Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Security, regarding the Seafarers' Wages Bill. Free Boiler Servicing 8 December 2022 Energy Projects Plus have a fund for carrying out boiler servicing for free to certain residents The scheme expires at the end of December, and applicants need to be a home owner, have a low income (usually around £31,000 but depends on household size) and have a chronic health condition. Applications can be submitted here or by calling 0800 043 0151, and further details can be found here. In addition, Knowsley Council have their own budget for boiler servicing which is open for home owners on a means tested benefit, irrespective of health condition, and will last beyond December. For more info on this scheme call Simon Rugen on 07881 670 488. Dog Food Bank 8 December 2022 The Dogs Trust have opened a temporary dog food bank in Huyton for anyone struggling to feed their dog(s) in these challenging times. The address is Merseyside Rehoming Centre, Whiston Lane, Huyton, L36 6HP, and it is open between 9am and 4.30pm. For more information please call 0303 003 0000 or email merseyside.reception@dogstrust.org.uk. Donations of dog food and treats are also welcome, Uprating of Benefits 8 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from Guy Opperman, Minister of State for Employment, regarding the uprating of benefits. Childcare Costs and Availability 6 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Education, Gillian Keegan, regarding childcare costs and availability. Pension Credit 2 December 2022 850,000 people above State Pension age in the UK are entitled to Pension Credit but have not made a claim for it. Independent Age have produced a range of free guides and factsheets for people in later life, including a Pension Credit guide which offers an in-depth breakdown on accessing Pension Credit. The guides can be viewed here. Further information about Pension Credit can be found here. Alaa Abd El-Fattah 2 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad, Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia and The UN), regarding Alaa Abd El-Fattah. Pancreatic Cancer 1 December 2022 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding The NHS England Cancer Programme and pancreatic cancer. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 30 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad regarding the high numbers of Palestinians killed and injured by Israeli Defence Forces in the West Bank and Gaza. 'Equal Power Now' 28 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad regarding the 'Equal Power Now' campaign. Fur Imports and Fois Gras 28 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Benyon, Minister for Biosecurity, Marine and Rural Affairs, regarding fur imports and fois gras. Maternity Services 28 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Maria Caulfield, Under-Secretary of State for Mental Health and Women's Health Strategy, regarding safe and sustainable staffing for maternity services. Kinship Carers 25 November 2022 Please click here to view a response the Secretary of State for Education, Gillian Keegan, regarding support for kinship carers. Caring for people with MND 21 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding support for carers of people with Motor Neurone Disease. 'Defend the Triple Lock' Petition 18 November 2022 Please click here to view and sign a petition defending the state pension triple lock. Shale Gas 18 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Graham Stuart, Minister of State for Climate, regarding shale gas. National Security Bill 16 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Tom Tugendhat, Minister for Security, regarding clause 27 and clauses 79-83 of the National Security Bill. Renewable Energy 16 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Climate, Graham Stuart, regarding support for renewable energy. Support for Pubs and Brewers 15 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, James Cartlidge, regarding support for pubs and brewers. Uprating of Benefits 15 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Tom Pursglove, Minister of State for Disabled People, Health and Work, regarding the uprating of benefits in line with inflation. Local Authority Spending 15 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding local authority spending. UK Embassy in Israel 14 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmed regarding the location of the UK embassy in Israel. Sale and Use of Fireworks 14 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Graham Stuart, Minister of State for Climate, regarding the sale and use of fireworks. Financial Services and Markets Bill 11 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Andrew Griffith, regarding the Financial Service and Markets Bill. Cost of Living Crisis 11 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Guy Opperman, Minister for Employment, regarding the cost of living crisis. Marine Protected Areas 2 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from Mark Spencer, Minister of State for Food, regarding Marine Protected Areas. Abortion Clinic Protest Buffer Zones 1 November 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Fire, regarding abortion clinic protest buffer zones. Local Housing Allowance and the Benefit Cap 31 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Pensions and Growth, Alex Burghart, regarding the Local Housing Allowance and the benefit cap. Early General Election 21 October 2022 A number of constituents have contacted me in support of an early General Election. I cannot see any way that competent government can be brought about without a General Election, and I wholeheartedly agree with those who are calling for one, as does the Labour Party. In an intervention with the Leader of the House of Commons, Penny Mordaunt, I made that point. You can view a transcript of the intervention here. NHS Winter Planning 21 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from Robert Jenrick, Minister of State for the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding winter planning for the NHS. Statue Queen Elizabeth II 20 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Cabinet Office Parliamentary Secretary, Brendan Clarke-Smith, regarding suggestions that a statue of the late Queen Elizabeth II be erected on the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square. Safer Gambling Week 2022 (17-23 October) 20 October 2022 I am pleased to support Safer Gambling Week 2022, a campaign created to start a national conversation about safer betting and gaming. Safer Gambling Week 2022 is the public face of a year-round commitment from the Betting and Gaming Council to promote safer gambling, with more than 100,000 staff at thousands of betting and gaming venues and online sites taking part. For more information please click here. Dementia Diagnosis 20 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Thérèse Coffey, regarding the dementia diagnosis backlog. Future of Channel 4 18 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from Michelle Donelan, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, regarding the future of Channel 4. Sewage and Storm Overflows 18 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from Trudy Harrison, Minister of State at DEFRA, regarding sewage and storm overflows. Everyday Needs Grants Programme 18 October 2022 The Royal British Legion have launched the Everyday Needs Grants Programme, which provides support to members of the Armed Forces community who are struggling with their household finances. Eligible applicants will receive a grant of up to £2,400 over 12 months, in a package designed to aid those who need help quickly to meet increasing costs of living. Please click here for more information. State Pension 14 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from Alex Burghart, Minister for Pensions and Growth, regarding calls for an increase in the State Pension and to lower the retirement age. Statutory Maternity Pay, Maternity Allowance, and the Cost of Living Crisis 13 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from Baroness Stedman-Scott regarding Statutory Maternity Pay, Maternity Allowance and the cost of living crisis. 2022 Cyber Academy Workshops 11 October 2022 Raytheon UK have announced the launch of their 2022 Cyber Academy workshops, delivered in partnership with the University of Texas and supported by the Career Transition Partnership, the Royal Air Forces Association and SSAFA. The demand for certified cybersecurity personnel is growing far faster than the supply, and the workshops aim to give veterans the skills and training for a career in the technology sector as part of Raytheon's mission to help veterans find rewarding career pathways after service. The first cybersecurity workshop will run over the course of two weeks from Wednesday 2nd November and all classes will be virtual. Further advanced and intermediate workshops will take place in early 2023. For more information, please click here. Use of Animals in Science 7 October 2022 Please click here to view a response from Nusrat Ghani, Minister for Science and Investment Security, regarding the use of animals in science and EDM 223. World Cerebral Palsy Day 6 October 2022 Today is World Cerebral Palsy Day, when people are encouraged to come together to celebrate and support those living with cerebral palsy, embrace diversity and to help create a more accessible future for everyone. The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cerebral Palsy has released a landmark report outlining a 10-point strategy for Government to improve the lives of people with Cerebral Palsy. Over a dozen pieces of written evidence were reviewed, revealing eye-opening stories, statistics, and other data that make a compelling argument for reform. You can view the 10 recommendations here. Baby Loss Awareness Week - (9th-15th October) 4 October 2022 Next Week is Baby Loss Awareness Week, which is a time to remember much-loved and missed babies and to raise awareness of pregnancy and baby loss. The government’s progress towards its commitment to halving stillbirths and neonatal deaths by 2025 has stagnated in the last year. One in four pregnancies ends in miscarriage, 5000 wanted pregnancies are terminated for medical reasons every year, and 13 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth every day. More must be done to reduce baby loss and support bereaved parents through the most challenging of times. For more information, please click here. Attack on Nature 3 October 2022 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about government proposals that will weaken protections for nature in the UK. Investment Zones were announced in the Chancellor’s recent fiscal statement and the government’s Growth Plan. Following the publication of the Growth Plan, the government published guidance on Investment Zones on 24 September which you can read in full here. In this guidance, the government said they intend to liberalise the planning process. They will: • remove burdensome EU requirements which create paperwork and stall development but do not necessarily protect the environment • focus developer contributions on essential infrastructure requirements • reduce lengthy consultation with statutory bodies • relax key national and local policy requirements I share your concerns about Investment Zones. There is the potential that they will allow businesses and developers to erode long-standing and hard-fought environmental protections and cause irreparable harm for nature. The government is currently in talks with 38 local authority areas as potential sites for Investment Zones. As they are in the very early stages, there just isn’t enough detail to know exactly how these zones will work in practice. At Labour Conference, the Shadow Chancellor made reference to Investment Zones in her speech. On the issue of Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMS), a subsidy scheme introduced after Brexit to replace the EU's Common Agricultural Payouts, it has been rumoured that the government intends to scrap the scheme. The government has denied this is the case. I will raise each of your concerns with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and will post a copy of any substantive response that I receive on my website. Please be assured that I will continue to monitor this issue closely. Closure of Defence Business Services Offices in Liverpool and Cheadle Hulme 20 September 2022 Please click here to view a response from Alec Shelbrooke, Minister of State for Defence Procurement, regarding the closure of the MOD offices in Liverpool and Cheadle Hulme. Joint Replacement Surgery Waiting Times 20 September 2022 Please click here to view a response from Graham Urwin, CEO of NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, regarding waiting times for joint replacement surgery in the region. The Passing of Queen Elizabeth II 9 September 2022 The sad news about the death of the Queen touches all of us in many different ways. Throughout almost all of my life, the Queen has served with distinction, good grace and wisdom as our Head of State. I have the great privilege to serve as a Privy Counsellor and, in my small number of encounters with the Queen, I witnessed how she cared deeply and sincerely about our country, our people, and the important role she filled in the Commonwealth. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time but, as others have said, we are all part of the family of our country, and we share in their loss. It is, perhaps, unfashionable these days to talk about duty and responsibility: our duty and responsibilities to our country and to each other. The Queen was a shining example in the way she embodied the ideal of the duty and the huge responsibilities she carried on her shoulders. Her example will, I’m sure, be an inspiration to King Charles and, on behalf of the people of Knowsley, I wish him well as he takes over those awesome duties and responsibilities as our new Head of State. Jagtar Singh Johal 7 September 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad regarding Jagtar Singh Johal. NHS Dentistry 6 September 2022 Please click here to view a response from James Morris, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding access to NHS dentistry. Youth Diversion Fund 5 September 2022 The Police and Crime Commissioner has launched a £50,000 Youth Diversion Fund for community groups across Merseyside to use over the Autumn half term. Organisations can apply for up to £3000 to fund initiatives and activities to divert young people away from anti-social behaviour. Applications must be received by Friday 23rd September 4pm, and submitted here. Migraine Awareness Week 5 September 2022 It is Migraine Awareness Week and I am supporting the Migraine's Trust's call for better care for the one in ten children and young people coping with migraine in school and in their daily lives. The Migraine Trust have published a report calling for clearer guidance and training for both health and education professionals, so they can better understand and support young people impacted by impacted by migraine. The report also calls for more resources for the parents/careers living with the condition. To view the report, please click here. For more information about the work of the Migraine Trust, please click here. Private Rental Sector Reforms 5 September 2022 Please click here to view a response from Eddie Hughes, Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing, regarding proposed reforms to the private rental sector. Shireen Abu Akleh 2 September 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Deputy Ambassador of Israel to the UK, Oren Marmorstein, regarding tensions at Temple Mount and the death of Shireen Abu Akleh. Habitats Regulations 1 September 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Benyon regarding Habitats Regulations. Just Like Us 31 August 2022 New research by Just Like Us has found that LGBT+ adults are twice as likely to have been bullied in school, avoided going and been lonely. 36% were bullied, yet today 42% of LGBT+ school pupils are being bullied, suggesting an alarming increase. Further information can be found here. Family Rights Group 31 August 2022 If you are a parent, relative, friend or kinship carer of a child who is involved with children's services and need support, the Family Rights Group offer free and confidential advice. Further information can be found here. Cost of Living Crisis 31 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from Alan Mak, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, regarding the cost of living crisis. British Gas Energy Support Fund 25 August 2022 The British Gas Energy Support Fund will be available from mid-September to support the most vulnerable households who asre struggling to pay theire energy bills. For more information, please click here. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 25 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from Amanda Milling, Minister for Asia and the Middle East, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. More... Workplace Social Mobility 24 August 2022 I am supporting the Equality of Opportunity Coalition's campaign to improve social mobility in the workplace. For more information, please click here. Animal Testing 24 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from Baroness Williams regarding animal testing. Public Sector Pay 22 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Health, Maria Caulfield, regarding public sector pay. NHS Pay 22 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Simon Clarke, regarding NHS pay. Epidermolysis Bullosa 22 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from James Morris, Under Secretary of State for Primary Crime and Patient Safety, regarding support for people with Epidermolysis Bullosa. Local Election Candidate Criteria 22 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from Paul Scully, Minister of State at the Department for Levelling Up, regarding current rules for candidates wishing to stand in local elections. Social Care Reform 12 August 2022 Please click here to view a resposen from Gillian Keegan, Minister of State for Care and Mental Health, regarding social care reform. Bill of Rights 10 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Bellamy regarding the Bill of Rights. BT Group Industrial Action 8 August 2022 Please click here to view a response from Richard Wainer, Policy and Public Affairs Director at BT Group, regarding the recent industrial action organised by the CWU. Jackdaw Gas Field 28 July 2022 Please click here to view a response from Greg Hands, Minister of State for Energy, Clean Growth and Climate Change, regarding the Jackdaw gas field. Assisted Suicide 28 July 2022 Please click here to view a response from Dominic Raab, Secretary of State for Justice, regarding assisted suicide. Pension Credit 25 July 2022 Pensioners living on low incomes should submit their claim for Pension Credit by 18th August 2022 or risk missing out on £650 of extra help towards the cost of living this year. You can apply for Pension Credit by clicking here. Age UK can provide further information via telephone - 0800 055 6112. Abortion Clinic Protest Buffer Zones 18 July 2022 Please click here to view a response from Amanda Solloway, Minister for Safeguarding, regarding abortion clinic protest buffer zones. Cheshire and Merseyside Advisory Committee Voluntary Vacancies 18 July 2022 The Cheshire and Merseyside Advisory Committee deals with the recruitment and recommendation for the appointment of Magistrates across the region, and they are currently seeking new volunteers to join their ranks. You do not need any prior legal training to assess judicial aptitude, but you must have excellent interpersonal skills, good judgement of character and a willingness to interview candidates for the Magistracy. Past interviewing experience is helpful but not essential as training will be provided to all successful candidates. If you are interested in volunteering for this role, further information can be found on the Public Appointments website here, or via the Legal Admin Team on 0151 471 1081. Applications must be submitted by 31 July 2022 Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 21 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Amanda Melling, Minister for Asia and the Middle East, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Fuel Duty 15 July 2022 Please click here to view a response from Alan Mak, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, regarding fuel duty. Masafer Yatta 15 July 2022 Please click here to view a response from Amanda Milling, Minister for Asia and the Middle East, regarding the Masafer Yatta eviction case. Gaza Strip 15 July 2022 Please click here to view a response from Amanda Milling, Minister for Asia and the Middle East, regarding Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip. National Security Bill 6 July 2022 Please click here to view a response from Damian Hinds, Security Minister, regarding the National Security Bill. Hunting 5 July 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, regarding hunting. Support for Medical Students 29 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Edward Argar, Minister of State or Health, regarding support for medical students. Automated External Defibrillators 29 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Edward Argar, Minister of State or Health, regarding access to Automated External Defibrillators. Zambia's Common Framework 27 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen, regarding Zambia's Common Framework. Rwanda Asylum Scheme 24 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Tom Pursglove, Minister for Justice and Tackling Illegal Migration, regarding the Rwanda Asylum Scheme. 2022 UEFA Champions League Final 23 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Nadine Dorries, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sports regarding the treatment of Liverpool FC supporters at the 2022 Champions League Final. Rail Strikes 23 June 2022 The rail strikes are a matter of great concern to us as a country. Many people will struggle to get to work, school or attend medical appointments and they will, inevitably, have an economic impact. The Government, however, have astonishingly stood on the side-lines and made no effort to bring the industry and trade unions together in an effort to resolve the dispute. Indeed, they are trying to play politics with the issue which, although typical of this government, represents an abdication of responsibility which is wholly unacceptable and irresponsible. Rail workers are entitled to defend their pay and working conditions and I cannot in all conscience, as a life-long trade unionist, condemn them for doing so. I have raised my concerns with the Transport Secretary, and will publish a copy of any response received on this website. Send and AP Green Paper 21 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Education, Nadhim Zahawi, regarding the SEND and AP Green Paper. Letterbox Contact 21 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince, Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Education, regarding letterbox contact between adopted children and their birth families. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 21 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Amanda Melling, Minister for Asia and the Middle East, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Children’s Hospice Week - 20-26 June 2022 16 June 2022 Children’s Hospice Week is the only week in the year dedicated to raising awareness and funds for children’s hospice and palliative care services like Claire House across the UK, and the seriously ill children and young people that they support. This year it is taking place between 20-26 June 2022. For more information, please click here. Unpaid Carers 16 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Gillian Keegan, Minister of State for Care and Mental Health, regarding support for unpaid carers. The Big Plastic Count 15 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, regarding The Big Plastic Count. #WatchWaitWorry Campaign 15 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Maria Caulfield, Under Secretary of State for Primary Care and Patient Safety, regarding Leukaemia Care’s Left to #WatchWaitWorry campaign. Booster Vaccinations - COVID-19 15 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Maggie Throup, Parliamentary Under Secretary for Vaccines and Public Health, regarding the additional booster vaccinations against COVID-19. Public Sector Pay 10 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury regarding public sector pay. Dementia Funding 10 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury regarding funding for dementia diagnosis and research. Channel 4 10 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Nadine Dorries, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, regarding the future of Channel 4 World Health Organisation 8 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Kamall regarding proposals for a WHO pandemic convention, agreement or other international instrument to tackle pandemics. Obesity 8 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Maggie Throup, Parliamentary Under Secretary for Vaccines and Public Health, regarding the government's plans to tackle obesity in the UK. Higher Education Reforms 1 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from Michelle Donelan, Minister of State for Higher and Further Education, regarding higher education reforms and minimum eligibility requirements. Frequent Flyer Levy 1 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Helen Whately, regarding a frequent flyer levy. Catch Up With Cancer 1 June 2022 I have signed the @APPGRT cross-party letter to the Secretary of State for Health asking him to invest in radiotherapy to boost treatment capacity, clear the COVID-induced cancer backlog and #CatchUpWithCancer. A copy of the letter can be viewed here. Health and Care Act 2022 1 June 2022 Please click here to view a response from from Edward Argar, Minister of State for Health, regarding the Health and Care Act 2022. ‘She Inspires’ Football Tournament 2022 27 May 2022 The 'She Inspires’ football tournament 2022 has officially been launched. Girls across Merseyside can attend training and coaching sessions ahead of the planned tournament on Sunday 3rd July, whilst having the opportunity to progress on to further education via the Fowler Education Football Academy and Everton Community College. Further information can be found here. Conversion Therapy 25 May 2022 Please click here to view a response from Mike Freer, Minister for Equalities, regarding the banning of conversion therapies. Carers Week (6-12 June) 24 May 2022 I am supporting Carers Week, which is taking place from 6-12 June. The theme this year is to raise awareness of the significant challenges that many unpaid family carers are currently facing, and to call on the Government to publish a Recovery and Respite Plan for Unpaid Carers. The Government needs to urgently invest further in support for unpaid carers, so people can live a life beyond their unpaid caring responsibilities and continue to care safely and well. For more information, please click here. Cost of Living 24 May 2022 Please click here to view a response from Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Simon Clarke, regarding cost of living concerns. Dementia Action Week (16-22 May) 20 May 2022 I recently met with people affected by dementia, experts from the Alzheimer’s Society and clinicians at the charity’s Parliamentary reception to find out more about the barriers people face to getting a diagnosis. There are currently around 2,610 people living with dementia in Knowsley, with a total of 900,000 across the UK, which is set to rise to 1.6m by 2040. However, with diagnosis rates currently at a five-year low after the pandemic, the charity believes there are tens of thousands of people now living with undiagnosed dementia. This means they don’t have access to the vital care and support that a diagnosis can bring. Anyone worried that you or a loved one may have dementia should contact Alzheimer’s Society for advice and support. For more information, please click here. Fur, Foie Gras and Hunting Trophies 18 May 2022 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, regarding animal welfare. National Insurance Contributions (NICs) Health and Social Care Levy 18 May 2022 Please click here to view a response from Simon Clarke, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, regarding National Insurance Contributions (NICs) Health and Social Care Levy. Youth Diversion Fund 13 May 2022 Merseyside’s Police Commissioner is marking her first year in office by announcing the launch of the summer Youth Diversion Fund to offer safe, engaging activities for thousands of young people and help ease holiday hardship across the region. The six week summer holiday period is a time when communities across Merseyside often see a spike in anti-social behaviour, causing concern and distress for local families and acting as a drain on police resources. To help ease the pressure, the PCC is extending her successful Youth Diversion Fund to run over the summer months and is inviting community and grassroot organisations to bid for funds to run projects which will provide positive diversionary activities, such as sports, arts, or cultural activities, for young people right across Merseyside. For more information, please click here. 10 Downing Street Fines 10 May 2022 Please click here to view a response from 10 Downing Street after I raised my concerns about the conduct of the Prime Minister, and the subsequent fines that were issued. Leukaemia Care campaign 10 May 2022 I have been contacted by a number of constituents regarding Leukaemia Care’s ‘left to #WatchWaitWorry’ campaign to address insufficient support for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) patients. Last week I met with Leukaemia Care to discuss the campaign in further detail. I have also written to the Health Secretary on this issue and submitted a written parliamentary question, which will be responded to here. To find more about the campaign please click here. Rwanda & Nationality and Borders Bill 10 May 2022 Please find here a link to a question I recently asked to the Home Secretary, together with a link here to how I voted in the Divisions on the Lords’ amendments to the Nationality and Borders Bill. It is my view that both the Bill and the Government’s decision to send refugees to Rwanda are wrong and unfair and lack any evidence to show that they will even work. High Growth Innovation Fund 6 May 2022 Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, has announced a new £2.24m High Growth Innovation Fund to help dozens of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to grow and create good quality jobs. Funded by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and the European Regional Development Fund, grants of between £25,000 and £75,000 will be available to high growth businesses, and those with the potential to be high growth. For more information please click here. Mental Health Awareness Week 6 May 2022 Mental Health Awarenss Week is running between 9-15 May 2022. The official theme this year is ‘loneliness’ and, across the week, Mental Health UK are encouraging people to build meaningful connections with friends, family, colleagues and communities. For more information, please click here. Car Parking Charges for NHS Staff 6 May 2022 Please click here to view a response from Edward Argar, Minister of State for Health, regarding car parking charges for NHS staff. LGV/HGV Licence Delays 4 May 2022 I recently met with North West based logistics skills agency, TRS Training, to discuss the crippling backlog in lorry driving test availability. The resulting delays in trainee drivers obtaining their LGV/HGV licences threaten the viability of LGV Apprenticeships and the Government's flagship Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving. The Government is relying heavily on both these initiatives to tackle the UK driver shortage. TRS Training currently have 150 trainee drivers ready to take their lorry driving tests in the North West, but they face 12-month waits for test dates. The government must implement steps to remove the bottleneck in the licence acquisition process quickly. Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak Penalty Notices 13 April 2022 The announcement on 12 April, that Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak have been fined for breaking the rules during the lockdown is truly shocking. The fact that the party took place at a time when people were unable to be with dying relatives or visit loved ones in hospital is a shocking example of one rule for them and another for the rest of us. It is, moreover, unprecedented for a serving Prime Minister and Chancellor to be found breaking the law and calls into question their fitness to hold high office. In addition, the Prime Minister has, in my opinion, broken the ministerial code and, unquestionably, has misled Parliament, both of which are very serious matters which cannot be ignored. Accordingly, I believe that it is now time to table a motion in parliament of no confidence regarding the Prime Minister and the Chancellor’s conduct and I will support such a motion. Whether or not such a motion succeeds will depend on a significant number of Tory MPs voting for it. If they fail to do so, they will have to explain why not to their own constituents and face the consequences. I strongly share the outrage that so many people here in Knowsley have expressed to me and believe that our country deserves better leadership than Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak have demonstrated. The sense of entitlement they have displayed is breath-taking and insulting and, in my view, renders them as being wholly unfit to occupy those positions of great importance and trust. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Community Environment Fund 12 April 2022 Applications for grants from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Community Environment Fund are open to local community and not-for-profit groups wishing to deliver high impact projects that improve the environment across the city region. Funds will be available for smaller projects up to £5,000, and larger schemes up to £30,000. The fund is open for applications until 9th May, and details can be found by clicking here. Rising Energy Prices & the Cost of Living Crisis 8 April 2022 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, regarding rising energy prices and the cost of living crisis. MPs Code of Conduct 8 April 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord True, Minister of State at the Cabinet Office, in response to concerns raised about the proposed reform the MPs code of conduct. Cervical Cancer 5 April 2022 Please click here to view a response from Maria Caulfield, Under Secretary of State for Primary Care and Patient Safety, regarding cervical cancer screening and treatment. Fur Imports 4 April 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP, in relation to fur imports. British Gas - Energy Bill Support Fund 1 April 2022 If you are a British Gas customer with an energy debt of £250 or higher, you may be entitled to a grant via the British Gas Energy Bill Support Fund. For more information, please click here. The Health and Care Bill 1 April 2022 On 30 March, the Health and Care Bill returned to the House of Commons. I voted in favour of a series of amendments including an assessment on the workforce needs of the health social care and public health sector, an amendment on the regulation of tobacco products and an amendment on access to telemedical abortion services. You can see my full voting record here. Animal in Science Regulation Unit Change Programme 1 April 2022 Please click here to view a response from Baroness Williams regarding the Animal in Science Regulation Unit Change Programme. Energy Prices 1 April 2022 Please click here to view a response from Greg Hands, Minister of State for Energy, regarding energy prices. Fracking 30 March 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Energy, Clean Growth and Climate Change, Greg Hands, regarding fracking. Import of Fur and Foie Gras 29 March 2022 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in response to concerns about the importing of fur and foie gras. Pauls' Place Suicide Breavement Support Service 25 March 2022 Paul's Place is a specialist counselling service for Merseyside residents who have been bereaved by suicide. They offer up to 20 free one-to-one sessions as well as weekly and/or monthly peer support group meetings. To find out more please click here. Shakespeare North Playhouse Opening Programme 25 March 2022 Shakespeare North Playhouse have unveiled their opening programme with A Midsummer Night’s Dream, A Christmas Carol and audiences with Johnny Vegas and Jimmy McGovern among the highlights. The stunning new venue, home to the only 17th-century style timber theatre outside London and anticipated to attract 140,000 visitors a year, will open its doors to the public on 15 July. For more information about the opening programme please click here. Free Support for Vulnerable Customers - Water 25 March 2022 Water companies provide free tailored help to support vulnerable customers with water related matters via the Priority Services scheme. For more information, please click here. End of Free Covid Tests for Care Home Visitors 25 March 2022 Please click here to view a response from Gillian Keegan, Minister of State for Care and Mental Health, regarding the end of free covid testing for care home visitors. Key Stage 1 and 2 Assessments 22 March 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Education, Nadhim Zahawi MP, regarding Key Stage 1 and 2 assessments. Donations to Ukraine 18 March 2022 Please click here and here to view letters from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and HM Treasury relating to donations to Ukraine. Compulsory Covid-19 Vaccination for NHS Staff 18 March 2022 Please click here to view a response from Edward Agar MP, Minister of State for Health, regarding the mandatory Covid-19 vaccination for NHS staff. Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) 15 March 2022 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in relation to animal welfare. Scope Cross-Party Letter 11 March 2022 I am proud to join 45 cross-party MPs in signing Scope's letter to the Department of Work and Pensions calling on the Government to introduce the right to request an appropriate assessor. You can view the letter here and here. Asylum Seeker Accommodation 11 March 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Home Office regarding asylum seeker accommodation. Support for Ukraine 9 March 2022 A number of constituents have contacted me to enquire about how they can support Ukraine in response to the tragic humanitarian crisis that is unfolding as a result of the invasion of the country. Knowsley Council have helpfully provided a 'How you can help Ukraine' section on their website, which you can view here. Russia and Ukraine 4 March 2022 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly, Minister of State for Europe and North America, regarding Russia's assault on Ukraine. Planning Application - Medical Incinerator 2 March 2022 The deadline to submit views on proposals for a medical incinerator to be built on Stopgate Lane has been further extended to 17 March 2022. Comments can be submitted directly to Lancashire County Council at devcon@lancashire.gov.uk, and I would urge residents to do so. Please be assured that both myself and the Kirkby Councillors continue to do all we can to prevent this development from going ahead. Rising Energy Prices 28 February 2022 Please click here to view a resonse from Helen Whately MP, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury on the subject of rising energy prices. Funding for Storm Damaged Sport Facilities 28 February 2022 Sport England has announced new emergency funding for community sport and physical activity facilities damaged by the recent storms. Community sport organisations with facilities – such as clubhouses, courts and pitches – affected by the bad weather can now apply for grants of up to £15,000 to help repair storm damage so that you can get back to operating as soon as possible. All information, including criteria and the application process, can be found on Sport England’s website via: https://www.sportengland.org/news/emergency-funding-available-storm-damaged-facilities. Everyday Heritage Grants 25 February 2022 Historic England has announced its Everyday Heritage Grants 2022: Celebrating Working Class Histories. The grants will fund community-led and people-focused projects that aim to further the nation’s collective understanding of the past. These grants will focus on heritage that links people to overlooked historic places, with a particular interest in recognising and celebrating working class histories. The closing date for applications is Monday 23 May 2022. For more information about the project and how to apply, please click here, or email EverydayHeritage@HistoricEngland.org.uk. Health and Care Bill 2021-22 22 February 2022 Please click here to view a response from Edward Argar, Minister of State for Health, regarding the Health and Care Bill 2021-22. Trail Hunting 22 February 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Environment Secretary, George Eustice, regarding Trail Hunting. Independent Age 21 February 2022 Please click here to see free guides and factsheets published by Independent Age on key topics for people in later life, including a their Moneywise guide offering an in depth breakdown on essesntial money related advice such as reducing fuel bills and accessing pension credit. Energy Efficiency in Homes 18 February 2022 Please click here to view a response from Lord Callanan regarding the need to improve the energy performance of homes in the UK. Arms Exports to Israel 18 February 2022 Please click here to view a response from Ranil Jayawardena, Minister for International Trade, regarding arms exports to Israel. Planning Application - Medical Incinerator 14 February 2022 I have received a large number of emails from constituents expressing their concern at the proposed medical incinerator on Stopgate Lane, Simonswood, West Lancs. I very much share the concerns expressed by many Kirkby residents at the proximity of the proposed development to the densely populated areas of Shevington Ward and Northwood Ward, and the impact such a development would have on the health and wellbeing of the wider Kirkby community. I have written to Lancashire County Council (LCC), as the planning authority dealing with the application, lodging my formal objection to the proposed development. Kirkby Councillors and Knowsley Council have also submitted their objections to the plan. Labour Knowsley set up a petition to allow residents to express their views on the development, which has also been submitted to LCC. However, I understand that the consultation period has been extended to 1st March, and would urge residents to submit their views on the proposed development. Both myself and a number of Kirkby Councillors are hoping to meet with colleagues in West Lancs Council and Simonswood Parish Council to discuss what more we can do collectively to convince LCC that this development must not go ahead. Please be assured that both myself and the Kirkby Councillors are doing all we can to prevent this development from going ahead. Afghan Resettlement Scheme 10 February 2022 Please click here to view a response from Victoria Atkins, Minister for Afghan Resettlement, regarding the Afghan Resettlement Scheme. IVF - Same Sex Couples 10 February 2022 Please click here to view a response from Maria Caulfield, Under Secretary of State for Primary Care and Patient Safety, regarding IVF for same sex couples. The Ivory Act 10 February 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Environment Secretary, George Eustice, regarding the Ivory Act. Shakespeare of the North - Hermes 10 February 2022 I would like to thank Hermes for their generous donation to the Shakespeare North Playhouse Trust recently. The Knowsley community will benefit enormously from the Shakespeare North project, in both economic and cultural terms. For more information about the project, please click here. Sue Gray Report 4 February 2022 I share the disgust of many of my constituents in the actions of the Prime Minister and 10 Downing Street in breaching Covid-19 restrictions at a time where many people made deeply personal sacrificies and I have previously written to the Prime Minister to call for his resignation. On 31 January, during a debate on the Sue Gray Report I put the concerns of my constituents to the Prime Minister. You can watch what I said here or read a transcript here. Benefit Assessments 20 January 2022 I recently met with Scope to discuss disabled people’s experiences of benefits assessments and how this can be improved. Too many disabled people are having to go through a stressful appeals process in order to get the support they deserve. You can view a cross party letter to the Work and Pensions Secretary that I have signed on this matter here. Letterbox Contact for Adopted Children 20 January 2022 Please click here to view a response from the Education Secretary, Nadhim Zahawi, regarding letterbox contact for adopted children and their birth families. Prime Minister's Conduct 13 January 2022 Please click here to view a letter I have sent to the Prime Minister concerning reports of another party at 10 Downing Street at which he was in attendance. Cervical Screening Programme 13 January 2022 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding the Cervical Screening Programme. #HillsboroughLawNow 7 January 2022 Today at 1pm the Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram, alongside the Metro Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, will host an online event to highlight the cruel treatment of Anne Williams and other Hillsborough families and will call for a rebalancing of the justice system, to prevent other families experiencing the same injustices. The proposed Hillsborough Law is predicated upon four core recommendations from the report by Bishop James Jones ‘The Patronising Disposition of Unaccountable Power’, published four years ago and yet to receive a government response. You can join the event here. Pause Campaign 7 January 2022 A number of constituents have contacted me about the Pause campaign to change the letterbox contact system. Pause works with women who have experienced, or are at risk of, repeat removals of children from their care. I have raised my constituents’’ concerns with the Secretary of State and will post a copy of any substantive response that I receive on my website. Fuel Poverty 17 December 2021 Please click here to view a response from Guy Opperman MP, Minister for Pensions and Financial Inclusion regarding fuel poverty for older people. Public Health Statutory Instruments 17 December 2021 On Tuesday 14 December, MPs debated motions to approve statutory instruments relating to public health as part of measures in the Government’s plan B to combat COVID-19. These included the requirements for face masks, isolation rules, and for ‘covid passes’ demonstrating vaccination status or proof of a negative test for entry to large venues / mass gatherings. There was also a separate vote on a statutory instrument to mandate covid-19 vaccination for NHS staff, due to come into force in April 2022. The statutory instruments were unamendable. The votes were only to decide whether or not to support the statutory instruments, we could not attempt to change the proposals. I voted in favour of each motion and you can see my voting record here. Omicron is a clear threat and the government must act swiftly to limit its spread. My predominant concern throughout the pandemic has been, and will continue to be, the health and safety of my constituents. Vaccination Boosters 3 December 2021 As we move into Phase 3 of the Covid-19 vaccination programme, I would urge Knowsley residents to continue to take up the offer of a third ‘booster’ vaccination, as the best form of protection against the virus. It is concerning that 25% of the eligible population in Knowsley have not taken up offer of a vaccine and remain unprotected. Vaccination sites continue to remain open for first and second doses, and I would encourage those who have not been vaccinated to make an appointment. Anyone aged 16 or over is eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination at a drop-in centre, through their GP practice or by booking an appointment - call 119 or visit: www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination To locate your nearest vaccination clinic, call 119, visit www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or call your GP practice to discuss the options available to you. For any residents who are struggling to get to a vaccination clinic, Healthwatch Knowsley can provide support including a free taxi service. Call Healthwatch on 0151 449 3954 - lines are open Monday to Friday from 9am - 5pm. Health and Care Bill 3 December 2021 The Health and Care Bill which was debated in the House of Commons on 22 and 23 November. I voted in favour of a range of amendments to the Bill from Amendment 78 which would prohibit private health providers on NHS boards, to New Clause 12 on the protection of the title ‘nurse’. Unfortunately the amendments which I lent my support were defeated. I continued to vote alongside my Labour colleagues against allowing the Bill a third reading. Regrettably the Bill passed with Government support 294 votes to 244. You can view my voting record here. Protection of Uplands 22 November 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP regarding the protection of uplands. Carers Rights Day 2021 18 November 2021 Carers Rights Day will be marked on Thursday 25 November. I wanted to share some advice and information resources that have been created by Carers UK. The resources are designed to bring you the advice and information you need, from financial support, COVID-19, balancing work and care, and supporting you to take a break. You can access the resources here: https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice. Fox Hunting on Public Land 18 November 2021 A number of constituents have been in touch with me about the League of Cruel Sports campaign to end trail hunting on public land. I have raised this issue with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and will post a copy of any substantive response that I receive on my website. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 16 November 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly MP. Heating, Carbon Tax and Electric Vehicles 16 November 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Energy, Clean Growth and Climate Change. World Diabetes Day 14 November 2021 Today marks World Diabetes Day. I support the Dexcom's 'Access to Diabetes Care' campaign to ensure that everyone with diabetes can access the services and treatments they need to live well. Government investment is needed so that those with Type 1 Diabetes do not need to self-fund their treatment. Please click here to find out more. Animal Testing 26 October 2021 Please click here to view a response from Paul Scully MP, Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Labour Market regarding animal testing. Cider Duty Reform 26 October 2021 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately MP, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury in response to cider duty reform. High-Carbon Gas Boilers 22 October 2021 I have written to the Chancellor Rishi Sunak MP asking that he consider investing in cleaner heating in UK homes to replace high-carbon gas boilers. I will share any response I receive. Talk Talk Voucher Scheme 22 October 2021 Please click here to find more information regarding the Talk Talk scheme to provide free broadband for jobseekers. Health and Care Bill 22 October 2021 Please click here to find a response from Edward Argar MP, Minister of State at the Department of Health and Social Care regarding the Health and Care Bill. BBRS Business Support 22 October 2021 Please click here to find out more information abour the Business Banking Resolution Service (BBRS) scheme to help Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Cuts to Malnutrition Aid 12 October 2021 Please click here to view a response from Wendy Morton MP, Minister for Europe and Americas, in response to Government cuts to malnutrition aid. Climate Change 8 October 2021 Please click here to view a response from Greg Hands MP, Minister of State for Energy, Clean Growth and Climate Change. Keir Starmer Sun Article 5 October 2021 As a Liverpool City Region Labour MP, I do not personally speak to the Sun newspaper. Like many of the people I represent, I deplore its inaccurate and offensive coverage of the Hillsborough disaster. I have made Keir aware of my view that it was inappropriate to write an article in that particular publication. In general, I accept that in a free society, a free press is an important principle. With that freedom, however, goes a responsibility to report events fairly and accurately. The Sun’s coverage of Hillsborough fell far short of that responsibility. Health and Disability Green Paper 1 October 2021 Please click here to view a response from Chloe Smith MP, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work in response to the Z2K briefing. #CatchUpWithCancer 22 September 2021 I have contacted the #CatchUpWithCancer campaign to add my name to the open letter and agreeing to be listed as a parliamentary supporter. I have also offered my support to Early Day Motion, EDM 456, which calls for investment to tackle the cancer backlog, you can view my signature here. I attended the Catch Up With Cancer event on 15 September, via Zoom, where I heard from cancer experts and frontline staff on the COVID-19 induced cancer backlog crisis and how it is impacting constituencies across the country, and heard from industry and technology representatives who explained the way in which high-tech solutions which could play a vital role in solving the cancer backlog crisis in the UK. World Alzheimer's Month 17 September 2020 To mark World Alzheimer’s Month, I joined Alzheimer’s Research UK at an event in Parliament to show my support for dementia research. The aim of the event was to highlight the importance of the government’s manifesto promise to double funding for dementia research, known as the Dementia Moonshot. In the UK nearly 1 million people are living with dementia, and it is one of the leading causes of death. Not only does dementia cause harm and heartbreak to millions of families, but it is also placing huge strain on our health and social care system. The economic cost to the UK of caring for people with dementia is estimated to grow from £24bn in 2014 to £59bn by 2050. Historic global underinvestment means that while dementia research is making progress, it still lags far behind research into other major conditions. The additional investment, provided by the Dementia Moonshot, could transform dementia research in the UK and even help to find a life-changing treatment. For more information, click here. 'Cancer Nursing on the Line' 17 September 2020 I was one of over 200 Members of Parliament who came together to support Macmillan Cancer Support’s latest campaign, called Cancer Nursing on the Line. The Cancer Nursing on the Line report calls for a Cancer Nurse Fund to invest in training the next generation of cancer nurses, whose numbers need to double by 2030 to ensure that people living with cancer get the support they need. Macmillan’s report highlights that the cancer nurse crisis has now left more than half a million people with cancer in the UK (21%; 630,000) with a lack of support. This can have serious implications, with almost half of all people (44%) who were diagnosed with cancer in the last two years experiencing at least one potentially serious medical implication as a result and ending up in A&E. It is clear that specialist cancer nurses do an invaluable job in supporting people through their illness, and the Macmillan event on 8 September allowed me to show support and solidarity with those nurses who do so much to help the growing population of those living with cancer, which is set to rise to 4 million by 2030. A shortage of over 3,000 nurses in England is impacting how the NHS can care for cancer patients in Knowsley and beyond. We must grow and back our specialist cancer nurse workforce in order to be set up for the future, and to ensure patients get the very best out of cancer services. By continuing to work with Macmillan Cancer Support on the crucial issues they champion, I will work to ensure that local people get the support that they deserve through their illness. If you or a loved one has been impacted by cancer, I would welcome hearing their experiences of living with cancer and the impact a diagnosis has had. End Fire and Rehire 17 September 2021 I am supporting both Unite's campaign to end the practice of Fire and Rehire, and Barry Gardiner's Stop Fire and Rehire Bill, which will receive its Second Reading in parliament on 22 October. One in ten workers have already been threatened with fire and rehire, a number that is set to increase dramatically as furlough draws to an end. The practice is outlawed in parts of Europe and it should be no different here. Workers in the North West have already experienced high profile attacks on their rights this year alone by major corporations. For more information about the campaign, please click here. UK Climate Emissions 17 September 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury regarding calls for the government to fund a fair and affordable switch to greener and cleaner heating in the Spending Review. Princes Trust Programme 2021 14 September 2021 Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service are currently recruiting for their Princes Trust programme, which applies to young people aged 16-25. There are limited places available. For more information and to apply, please click here. Accessibility of Elections for Blind and Partially Sighted People 10 September 2021 Please click here to view a response from Chloe Smith, Minister of State for the Constitution and Devolution, regarding the accessibility of elections for blind and partially sighted people. Climate and Environment Commitments 10 September 2021 Please click here to view a response from Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury regarding the government's climate and environmental commitments. World Suicide Prevention Day 7 September 2021 I am supporting World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September. This year's theme is 'Creating Hope Through Action', and it aims to remind people that there is an alternative to suicide, whilst providing hope to those who are struggling. For more information please click here. Local Government Funding 7 September 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, regarding local government funding in the 2021 Spending Review. Afghanistan 7 September 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad, Minister of State for South Asia and the Commonwealth, regarding the situation in Afghanistan. Cannabis-based Products for Medicinal Use 7 September 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Under Secretary of State for Primary Care and Health Promotion, regarding the use of cannabis-based products for medicinal use. Plastic Waste 28 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice MP Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, about the export of plastic waste. Social Care Reform 28 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately MP Minister of State for Care in relation to reform of the social care system. Breed Specific Legislation 28 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice MP Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in relation to Breed Specific Legislation (BSL). Youth Diversion Fund 2021 19 August 2021 The Police and Crime Commissioner for Merseyside, Emily Spurrell, has launched the Youth Diversion Fund for projects over the autumn half-term. The Commissioner is encouraging community organisations, charities and groups to apply for a vital cash boost of up to £3,000 for grassroots initiatives which are working to divert young people away from anti-social behaviour and crime during a time when this traditionally spikes. A total of £50,000 is available from the fund for one-off grants for organisations which are committed to improving community safety, reducing crime or supporting victims. For more information, please click here. Cervical Screening Programme 19 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Under Secretary of State for Primary Care and Health Promotion, regarding the Cervical Screening Programme. 'Long Live the Local' campaign 10 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Kemi Badenoch, regarding the 'Long Live the Local Campaign' and support for the beer and pub industry. Social Care Workforce Pay 10 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding pay for the social care workforce Nationality and Borders Bill 10 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from Chris Philp, Minister for Immigration, regarding the Nationality and Borders Bill. Access to Cash 10 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen, regarding access to cash. Children's Rights and the G7 10 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from Wendy Morton, Minister of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, regarding children's rights at the G7. #FundTheHubs 10 August 2021 Please click here to view a response from Nadine Dorries, Minister of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding young people and their mental health. Covid-19 and Face Coverings 28 July 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health & Social Care, regarding government policy in relation to face coverings. Health and Care Bill 15 July 2021 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Health and Care Bill. I voted against the Bill on 14 July, however, it passed its Second Reading by 356 to 219. I also voted in favour of Labour's amendment to block the Bill. Unfortunately, the amendment was rejected 359 to 218. You can view my voting record here and track the Bill here. Eating Disorder Campaign 13 July 2021 I am delighted to have added my name to @HopeVirgo’s and @JohnMcDonnellMP’s letter to @SajidJavid, highlighting the state of Eating Disorder treatment across the country and asking for immediate Ministerial action, because no one should be dying of an Eating Disorder in 2021. The letter can be viewed by clicking here. Free Trade Negotiations and Data Protection 13 July 2021 Please click here to view a response from Greg Hands, Minister of State for Trade Policy, regarding free trade negotiations and data protection. Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill 6 July 2021 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill. Labour voted against the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill on 5 July, but the legislation passed its third reading by a majority of 100, with 365 MPs backing it and 265 opposing. You can see how I voted on each of the divisions here in Hansard. Violence and Abuse against Shop Workers 6 July 2021 Please click here to view a response from Kit Malthouse, Minister of State for Crime and Policing, regarding violence and abuse experienced by shop workers. Israeli Settlements - Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 6 July 2021 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly, Minister of State for the Middle East, regarding Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Pavement Parking 29 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Transport, Grant Shapps, regarding pavement parking. Right to Food Day - 28 June 2021 28 June 2021 Today is Right to Food Day, which is run by the charity, Fans Supporting Foodbanks. The figures on food poverty are shocking, and the aim of Right to Food Day is to highlight this issue and campaign for the government to adopt a number of measures that will provide an achievable, tangible and legally binding route out of food poverty for millions of people in the UK. These measures include universal free school meals; community kitchens; reasonable portions in benefits and wages, and ensured food security and independent enforcement. You can find more information by clicking here, and you can tweet your support using the hashtag #RightToFood. Pensioner Poverty 28 June 2021 I am supporting Independent Age's campaign to combat pensioner poverty. Data, analysed by Independent Age, found that while poverty in the overall population has remained relatively stable since 2012, pensioner poverty has increased by 5% across the UK, with now almost a fifth of pensioners (18%) living in poverty after paying their housing costs. Independent Age says these rising figures could be drastically reduced if people receive the financial support they are entitled to via Pension Credit, however, it has the worst uptake of all income-related benefits. In support, I have signed a cross-party letter to the Pensions Minister calling on the Government to produce an action plan to increase Pension Credit uptake. For more information, please click here. Safer Streets Consultation 28 June 2021 The Police and Crime Commissioner has launched a survey to better understand how the streets of Merseyside can be made safer for women and girls. The consultation asks women about their experiences of harassment and abuse, what makes them feel unsafe, and what can be done to improve their feelings of safety. The findings will be used to inform bids that the Commissioner will submit to a number of Government pots of funding, specifically focused on improving women’s safety. The findings will also be shared with community safety partners to inform any future campaigns and activities. The survey can be found by clicking here. Police and Crime Plan Consultation 28 June 2021 The Police and Crime Commissioner has launched a consultation which will inform the creation of her Police and Crime Plan, which will set out the policing and community safety priorities for the Merseyside region for the next four years. The Plan will detail how the Commissioner will work with Merseyside Police, criminal justice partners, the charitable and voluntary sector, and all of Merseyside’s diverse communities, to focus resources on the issues that matter most to local people. The Commissioner will also use the Plan to monitor the performance of Merseyside Police and hold the Chief Constable to account on how the Force is delivering against those priorities. For more information please click here. UNISON's 'No Return to Normal' Campaign 22 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding UNISON's 'No Return to Normal' campaign. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 22 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly, Minister of State for the Middle East, regarding alleged human rights violations against Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, East Jerusalem and beyond. #FundTheHubs 16 June 2021 I have been contacted by a number of constituents in relation to the joint #FundTheHubs campaign by Young Minds, The Children and Young People's Mental Health Coalition, Centre for Mental Health, The Children's Society, Youth Access and Mind. I have written to the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson to ask that he listen to the asks of the campaign to prioritise young people's mental health and ensure proper funding for youth services. Any response I receive will be published here. EU Settlement Scheme 16 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Home Office in relation to the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS). UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement 16 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from Greg Hands MP, Minister of State for Trade Policy in regards to the UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement. New Plan for Immigration 16 June 2021 Please click here to view a response by Chris Philp MP, Minister for Immigration Compliance and Justice in relation to the New Plan for immigration. Disabled Children's Partnership 16 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from Gavin Williamson MP, Secretary of State for Education, in regards to a number of reports produced by the Disabled Children's Partnership. Child Refugees 16 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from Chis Philp MP, Minister for Immigration Compliance and Justice, in regard to child refugees. #CrimeNotCompliment 16 June 2021 I have been contacted by a number of constituents regarding the #CrimeNotCompliment campaign led by Plan International UK and Our Streets Now. Please click here to review a response from Victoria Atkins MP, Minister for Safeguarding. UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement & Investor State Dispute Settlement 16 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from Greg Hands MP, Minister of State for Trade Policy, in relation to the UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement (FTA) & Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS). Knowsley Foundation Covid-19 Support Fund 7 June 2021 The Knowsley Foundation Covid-19 Support Fund has now gone live, and applications will close at 5pm on 2 July 2021. The purpose of the fund is to enhance and instigate activities to enable living with COVID-19 as part of a pandemic recovery and resilience strategy. The Fund will enable greater community resilience that will prevent and control outbreaks of COVID-19 through new collaborations, intelligence, and community empowerment and capacity building. For more information please click here and here. The Health and Care Bill 7 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Care, Helen Whately, regarding the Health and Care Bill. Mandatory Calorie Labelling 7 June 2021 Please click here to see a response from Nadine Dorries, Minister of State for Patient Safety, Suicide Prevention and Mental Health, concerning the introduction of mandatory calorie labelling on menus. Covid-19 Testing Contracts 7 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Bethell, regarding Covid-19 Testing Contracts. Social Care Reform 7 June 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Care, Helen Whately, regarding social care reform. Arms Exports to Israel 28 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from Ranil Jayawardena, Minister for International Trade, regarding arms exports to Israel. Carers Week: 7-13 June 2021 26 May 2021 I have pledged my support for Carers Week 2021, which is an annual campaign raising awareness of caring, highlighting the challenges unpaid carers face, and recognising the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. Carers, both paid and unpaid, should be treated fairly and given the support they need for the invalubale work they do. For more information, please click here. Music for Dementia 26 May 2021 I am supporting the Music for Dementia campaign, which calls for everyone living with dementia to have access to music as part of their care from diagnosis to end of life, regardless of their age, social or economic status. For more information, please click here. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 26 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly, Minister of State for the Middle East, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Abortion 20 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately MP, Minister of State for Care regarding abortion. PPE 20 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill MP, Parliamentary Secretary of State for Primary Care, in regard to PPE. NHS Pay 20 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, on the issue of NHS Pay. Co-Op Campaign on Retail Crime 20 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Crime and Policing, Kit Malthouse MP in relation to the Co-Op campaign on retail crime. UK-EU Trade 20 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Frost, Minister of State at the Cabinet Office, in relation to UK-EU trade. Dementia Action Week: 17-19 May 2021 11 May 2021 The Alzheimer Society's annual Dementia Action Week will run from 17-21 May 2021. Dementia has accounted for over a quarter of all deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic, and many more people are deteriorating rapidly due to the knock-on effects of lockdown. In Knowsley, there are an estimated 2052 people living with dementia, of whom 1262 have severe dementia. By 2030, this number is set to rise to 2614 people living with dementia. The Alzheimer’s Society is calling on the Government to publish a clear, budgeted plan for social care reform, complete with a long-term plan for social care and a workforce plan. This reform should be attentive, not just to funding, but to improving the quality of care that people receive. For more information about Dementia Action Week, please click here. Support for Students - Covid-19 11 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson, regarding support for students during the Covid-19 pandemic. EU Trade - Fishing 9 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Environment Secretary, George Eustice, regarding EU trade as is relates to fishing. Health and Wellbeing of Children 9 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Under-Secretary of State for Children and Families, Vicky Ford, regarding the health and wellbeing of children. Covid-19 Vaccination Sites 9 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for COVID Vaccine Deployment, Nadhim Zahawi, regarding access to Covid-19 vaccination sites. Reopening of Golf Courses 9 May 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Digital Culture, Media and Sport, The Rt Hon Oliver Dowden,regarding the reopening of golf courses. Fire Safety Bill 30 April 2021 As Co Vice Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Fire and Rescue, I have seen the devastating effects of the cladding and building safety scandal. On 27 and 28 April, Lords amendments were put to the House of Commons respectively. These amendments stated that the owner of a building may not pass on the costs of any remedial work to leaseholders and tenants. Whilst I voted in favour of both amendments, they were again voted down by the Government. Please click here to view my voting record. Financial Services Bill 30 April 2021 As a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Mortgage Prisoners, I have long been raising this issue in Parliament. On 26 April I voted in favour of Amendment 8 which would provide immediate relief for up to 250,00 mortgage prisoners in the UK. Disappointingly the Government took the decision to vote down this amendment, you can view the breakdown of votes here. Assura Community Fund 30 April 2021 The Assura Community Fund is now open to applications from health-improving local projects. These projects can benefit from a grant of up to £5,000. To apply please click here. UNISON North West Smear on Demand Campaign 30 April 2021 A number of constituents have contacted by in regard to UNISON North West's Smear on Demand campaign. This potentially life-saving campaign is calling to stop discrimination against women under existing guidelines, where those under the age of 25 cannot access a smear test. Young women should not be denied this life-saving test, and I fully support this campaign. To find out more please click here. I have raised this campaign with the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock MP and I will publish any response I receive. End Serco Contact Trace Contract 30 April 2021 I have been contacted by a number of constituents in regards to ending the contact trace contracts with Serco in favour of a more localised approach. I have raised my concerns with the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock MP and I will publish any response I receive. NHS Pay 30 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding NHS Pay. NHS Funding 30 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from Edward Argar MP, Minister of State for Health, regarding NHS funding. Palestinian Child Prisoners 30 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly MP, Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, in regards to Palestinian child prisoners. Postal Votes 26 April 2021 Electors across Knowsley are currently receiving their postal votes for the elections on Thursday 6 May. Royal Mail recommend returning postal votes by Tuesday 4 May to ensure they can be counted. Ballot papers can also be handed into polling stations and local authorities on Thursday 6 May before 10pm. Postal voters can return their votes using any Royal Mail postbox, including one of the 35,000 Priority postboxes around the country. Priority postboxes are emptied later in the day, and 15,000 are emptied on a Saturday and Sunday.To find your nearest postbox, please click here. For more information about postal votes, please click here. NHS Pay 26 April 2021 A number of constituents have contacted me about NHS pay. NHS staff, including nurses, who have worked so hard to protect and save lives during the pandemic should be given a fair pay rise. At the very least, the government should adhere to their promise to increase NHS pay by 2.1%, as set out in the NHS Long-Term Spending Plan, which they budgeted and legislated for. I have added my signature to EDM 742 on NHS Pay and EDM 614 on public sector workers’ pay. I have previously raised the issue of NHS pay with both the Prime Minister and the Chancellor and you can see copies of the responses here and here. In addition, I have added my name in support of the Royal College of Nursing’s Fairy Pay for Nursing petition. I have written again to both the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and the Chancellor and will post copies of any responses that I receive on my website. Unionlearn 26 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from Gavin Williamson, Secretary of State for Education, regarding the withdrawal of funding for Unionlearn. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 26 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly, Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship Fund 21 April 2021 Applications have just opened for the 2021 Open University (OU) Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship Fund. The fund provides scholarships for up to 50 disabled veterans to build on their unique military skills and experiences by studying at undergraduate or postgraduate level for free. The OU has awarded 160 such scholarships so far, helping individuals from a variety of service backgrounds and diagnosed with a range of physical disabilities and complex mental health conditions. Each scholarship is tailored to fully support all disabled veterans, injured during or due to their service, as they transition to civilian life, providing a free OU education and wraparound disability and careers service support. For more information please click here. Pig Welfare 21 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Environment Secretary, George Eustice, regarding pig welfare. Lunch Parcels for Children 21 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson, regarding lunch parcels during the national lockdown for children who are eligible for free school meals. European Super League 20 April 2021 Along with millions of football fans, many players and managers, I wholeheartedly oppose the proposal for a European Super League. It would run against all of the traditional values associated with football: the sense of fair play, the ability of clubs to compete and rise up through the divisions to the summit of the sport, and the opportunity for talented young sportsmen and women to make a professional career out of it, regardless of their personal backgrounds, as Marcus Rashford's career vividly illustrates. If I get the opportunity to vote to ban clubs in England from taking part in the ESL, I will do so enthusiastically. My fear is, however, that such a move would inevitably attract a legal challenge. This would mean that the issue would drag on and there would be no certainty as to how the courts eventually ruled. I have proposed, as a back-up approach, introducing a Super League Levy, which would tax any income clubs gain from being in the Super League by 100%. Such a tax would be ring-fenced and distributed to grass roots sports. As a Home Office Minister in the last Labour government, I was responsible for administering the Betting Levy Scheme and it was successful in getting bookmakers to fund racing. In fact, although I had the power to set the levy, I never had to use it as the bookmakers voluntarily came up with their own proposals about the level of funding, which was at that time acceptable to all concerned. My belief is that a Super League Levy, if an outright ban is not possible, would deter English clubs from joining the ESL, as there would be no financial incentive to do so. If they did, however, succeed with a legal challenge, at least grass roots sport would benefit from it. I am hopeful that the Labour Party will support me in this policy and that we can get legislation to bring it into effect as soon as possible. If we are to win this battle for the soul of the sport we all love, time is of the essence. I, therefore, urge fans to use every means at their disposal to show their support for a ban of the ESL and, as a back-up, a Super League Levy. This is a battle we can win if we unite to stop it. Modern Slavery Helpline 14 April 2021 The Modern Slavery Helpline provides victims, the public, statutory agencies and businesses access to information and support on a 24/7 basis. Potential victims are able to speak to fully-trained Helpline Advisors who can help them access relevant services, including Government-funded support through the National Referral Mechanism. Statutory agencies can call to gain support in dealing with potential victims, and to receive guidance in accessing all the information and tools available through the associated Resource Centre. Businesses can call for information, advice and also to report any concerns they have about potential instances of modern slavery in their operations. Members of the public and those delivering services on the front-line can also report any modern slavery suspicions or concerns about individuals, premises or locations. The helpline number is 08000 121 700, and you can find more information by visiting https://www.modernslaveryhelpline.org. COVID-19 Vaccine Prioritisation 14 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from Nadhim Zahawi, Minister for COVID Vaccine Deployment, regarding vaccine prioritisation. Additional Restrictions Grant 14 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from Paul Scully, Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Business, regarding the Additional Restrictions Grant. Press Regulation 7 April 2021 Please click here to view a response from John Whittingdale, Minister of State for Media and Data, regarding press regulation. Building Safety and Leaseholders 31 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Greenhalgh, Minister of State for Building Safety, Fire and Communities, regarding leaseholders affected by building safety issues. Bereavement Leave 31 March 2021 Please click here to view a letter from Paul Scully, Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Business, regarding bereavement leave. Animal Tests for Chemicals 31 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice, Secretary of State for the Environment, concerning repeat animal tests for chemicals. Covid-19 Second Wave 31 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Bethell regarding preparedness for the second wave of COVID-19. Covid-Status Certification 31 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Bethell regaring Covid-Status Certification. NHS Pay 31 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding NHS pay. Rail to Refuge 24 March 2021 Rail to Refuge is a joint initiative between rail companies and the Women’s Aid Federation of England, in which train operators cover the cost of train tickets for adults and children escaping domestic abuse and travelling to refuge accommodation. It has been announced that train companies will continue to provide free train travel for those needing to flee domestic abuse, as the number of people who have used the scheme reaches over a thousand people. For more information please click here. Human Rights Defenders 24 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad regarding the government's support for Human Rights Defenders around the world. Safari Parks 24 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Goldsmith, Minister of State at DEFRA, regarding the closure of safari parks during the pandemic. Use of Animals for Research 24 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Baroness Williams regarding the use of animals in research. PPE Equipment 24 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding the procurement of personal protective equipment. Support for Pubs, Clubs, Brewers & Cider Makers 17 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury, regarding support for pubs, clubs, brewers and cider makers follwing the Budget on 3 March 2021. Police, Crime, Sentencing, and Courts Bill 17 March 2021 On the 15 and 16 March, the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill was debated in the House of Commons. The transcripts of the debates can be viewed here and here. The Labour Party voted against this Bill as it rushed through poorly thought-out changes to protest law which would have disproportionate controls on the right to protest and freedom of expression. Furthermore, the tragic murder of Sarah Everard and the events which followed, exposed the Bill's failure to introduce a single new measure specifically designed to tackle violence against women. For these reasons, Labour tabled an amendment to decline the Bill a second reading. Unfortunately, this amendment was defeated 225 to 359 with the Conservatives choosing to vote down this amendment. You can view the amendment votes here. This meant that the Bill went ahead for a second reading and was put to the House on 16 March. Despite the many and valid concerns that were raised during the debates, the Conservatives voted in favour of the Bill and it was passed 359 to 263, which you can view here. The Bill will now enter the Committee Stage before returning to the House of Commons for further debate. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 17 March 2021 I am supporting Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month to ensure every woman knows the symptoms of ovarian cancer so they can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. If diagnosed at the earliest stage, 9 in 10 women survive ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, two thirds are diagnosed late. In addition, the Covid-19 pandemic has had a drastic impact on urgent referrals for suspected cancer, with fewer people contacting their GP. For more information about Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, please click here. Covid-19 and Safari Parks 17 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Goldsmith, Minister of State at DEFRA, regarding the closure of safari parks during the pandemic. Covid-19 and the Creative Professionals Sector 17 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Paul Scully, Under-Secretary of State at the Home Office, regarding support for the creative professionals sector during the pandemic. Fox and Trail Hunting 17 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice, Secretary of State for the Environment, concerning fox and trail hunting on government land. NHS Pay 9 March 2021 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about the government’s proposal to increase most NHS staff salaries by just 1%. I believe this proposal is an insult to our dedicated NHS staff, including nurses, who have worked so hard to protect and save lives during the pandemic. At the very least, the government should adhere to their promise to increase NHS pay by 2.1%, as set out in the NHS Long-Term Spending Plan, which they budgeted and legislated for.  I have previously raised the issue of NHS pay with the Prime Minister, and you can see a copy of the response received here. I have also raised this matter with Chancellor and will put a copy of any response received on my website. In addition, I have added my name in support of the Royal College of Nursing’s Fairy Pay for Nursing petition. Please be assured that, together with my Labour colleagues, I will continue to demand that the government abandon their plans to implement, what is effectively, a pay cut for NHS nurses. NHS Test and Trace Service 8 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Lord Bethell, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding the NHS Test and Trace Service. Arms Exports to Israel 8 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Ranil Jayawardena, Minister for International Trade, regarding arms exports to Israel. Face Coverings 8 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding the appropriateness of various masks for different users and settings. Alcohol Misuse 8 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding support to tackle alcohol misuse. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 3 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly, Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. 'Cheque for Tech' Campaign 3 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health & Social Care, regarding Diabetes UK 'Cheque for Tech' campaign. Benefit System for the Terminally Ill 3 March 2021 Please click here to view a response from Justin Tomlinson, Minister for Disabled People, concerning the DWP's evaluation into how the benefit system supports those nearing the end of their lives. Dementia and Coronavirus 26 February 2021 People living with dementia, their loved ones and carers, have been deeply affected by the Covid-19 virus and the effects of the pandemic, which is why I am supporting the Alzheimer Society's campaign for a universal social care system, free at the point of use, that provides quality care for every person with dementia who needs it. There are an estimated 2050 people with dementia aged over 65 living in Knowsley, and people with dementia are estimated to make up at least 70% of care home residents and over 60% of homecare recipients. You can find more information about by visiting https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/coronavirus. NCS Connect 26 February 2021 Teenagers across the country have struggled during the third national lockdown, whether it is from uncertainty about their education, or simply missing their friends. NCS are offering a bitesize version of their programme, NCS Connect, which supports young people and keeps them informed, educated, entertained and engaged during lockdown. It is free and content includes debates, quizzes, life tips and advice from the comfort of your own device. More information can be found by visiting www.wearencs.com/connect. Support for Pubs and Brewers 17 February 2021 A number of constituents have contacted me calling on the government to to reduce the rate of beer duty; extend the VAT cut for the sale of alcohol; cancel business rates for another year; and extend furlough for every pub until they are able to re-open. I have raised this matter with the Chancellor and will put a copy of any response received on my website. Local Government Finance 14 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury regarding local government finance and the 2020 Spending Review. Gender Identity Services 14 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill, Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Health & Social Care, regarding gender identity services. Safety, Funding and Charging in Early Years Settings 14 February 2021 Please click here and here to view responses from Vicky Ford, Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Education, regarding safety in early years settings, and funding and charging for early years providers respectively. Visa-Free Touring for Artists and Musicians 14 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from John Whittingdale, Minister of State for Media and Data, regarding Visa-Free Touring for Artists and Musicians Use of Barracks to Accommodate Asylum Seekers 14 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from Chris Philp, Minister for Immigration, regarding the use of former military barracks to accommodate asylum seekers. NHS Staff Pay Increase 14 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Care, Helen Whately, regarding UNISON’s campaign for an NHS pay increase. Mental Health Support for Children and Young People 8 February 2021 The NHS have provided advice for children and young people who may be feeling overwhelmed after a year of the Covid-19 pandemic and restrictions. You can view the advice here, and advice for parents here. Neonicotinoid Seed Treatment 8 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice, Secretary of State for the Environment, regarding the use of neonicotinoid seed treatment on the 2021 sugar beet crop. Unsafe Cladding 3 February 2021 On Monday 1 February, the Labour Party called for a debate in the House of Commons to discuss the ongoing cladding crisis, led by Shadow Housing Secretary, Thangam Debbonaire MP. She called on the Government to urgently provide upfront funding to ensure cladding remediation can start immediately, to help those trapped in unsafe buildings. I voted with my party on this motion, however, disappointingly the Conservative Party chose to abstain on this important issue. You can view the debate here. Alzhiemer's Research UK 3 February 2021 I'm supporting @AlzResearchUK’s #ThinkBrainHealth campaign to help reduce my risk of dementia. Learn what you can to do keep your brain healthy at the campaign hub, here. Government Funding for Local Authorities 3 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from Luke Hall MP, Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government, regarding government funding for local authorities. Support for the Hospitality Sector 3 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from Paul Scully MP, Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Labour Markets regarding government support for the hospitality sector. Fire and Rehire Tactics 3 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from Paul Scully MP, Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Labour Markets regarding the fire and rehire tactics used by Centrica and British Airways. Primary School Tests 3 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from Nick Gibb MP, Minister of State for School Standards regarding the cancelation of primary school tests. Domestic Residential Educational Visits 3 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Education Secretary Gavin Williamson MP regarding domestic residential educational visits. Visits to Care Homes 3 February 2021 Please click here to view a response from Minister of State for Care, Helen Whately MP regarding care home visits. Opposition Day 27 January 2021 On Monday 25 January, Labour had another opportunity to hold an opposition day in the House of Commons. During this day we raised the issue of the Government’s proposed council tax increases and employment rights. On the former we asked that the Government drop plans to force local councils to increase council tax in the middle of a pandemic, and instead asked that they provide councils with the proper funding they need to tackle Covid-19. Whilst I voted with my party on this issue, the Conservative MPs chose to abstain. You can view the debate here. We also asked that the Government ensure that existing employment rights and protections are maintained, and that by the end of January 2021 they set out a timetable to introduce legislation to end fire and rehire tactics. I also voted in favour of this, however, yet again Conservative MPs chose to abstain. You can view the debate here. Pet Travel 27 January 2021 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on EU pet travel regulations. Food Standards 27 January 2021 Please click here to view a response from Greg Hands MP, Minister of State for Trade Policy, regarding amendments passed to the Trade Bill. Naznain Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori 27 January 2021 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly MP, Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, regarding the cases of Naznain Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori. Environment Bill 20 January 2021 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Environment Bill, which has reached the Report Stage in the House of Commons. As I chaired the Committee Stage of the Bill, I am unable to comment or vote on the Bill at Report Stage. Trade Bill 20 January 2021 Yesterday, alongside my Labour colleagues, I voted in favour of Lords amendments 1-8 that were put before the House of Commons. Included in this was Amendment 1, which would have allowed Parliamentary approval of trade agreements; Amendment 3 which would have revoked trade with states accused of genocide; and Amendment 4 in relation to protecting the NHS during international trade agreements. Unfortunately, all these amendments were voted down by the government. You can view my full voting record here. Opposition Day Votes 20 January 2021 On Monday 18 January, the Labour Party held an opposition day in the House of Commons. This allowed us to raise particular issues we felt were being ignored by the government. The first vote, in relation to ‘Universal Credit and Working Tax Credit’, asked that the government vote with the Labour Party in order to stop the planned cuts to these benefits by April 2021, to help protect the six million families to whom it is worth £1,000 a year. Unfortunately, only six Conservative MPs voted to protect these families, whilst the vast majority decided to abstain. You can see the full debate here. The second vote held was on the issue of ‘Remote Education and Free School Meals’. We asked the government to guarantee that families receive the full value of free school meals for the duration of the school year, including school holidays. Unfortunately, only one Conservative MP voted with Labour on this issue, with the rest choosing to again abstain. You can view the full debate here. Media Regulation 20 January 2020 Please click here to view a response from John Whittingdale, Minister of State for Media and Data, regarding media regulation. Homelessness and the Spending Review 2020 20 January 2020 Please click here to view a response from Steve Barclay, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, regarding support for the homeless in the 2020 Spending Review. Up-Rating of State Pension 20 January 2020 Please click here to view a response from Guy Opperman, Minister for Pensions and Financial Inclusion, regarding the up-rating of State Pension paid to those living outside the UK. Fire and Re-hire 18 January 2021 I have been contacted by a number of constituents in relation to the 'fire and re-hire' tactics used by Centrica, the parent company of British Gas. Throughout the pandemic I have been engaging with GMB and have attended a virtual GMB briefing on this dispute, following which I added my signature to a joint MP letter by GMB to CEO of Centrica Chris O'Shea. I have raised my concerns with the Minister for Business, Energy and Clean Growth, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, and I will publish any response I receive. Arm Exports 18 January 2021 Please click here to view a response from Ranil Jayawardena MP, Minister for International Trade in regards to arm exports. Woodland Trust 18 January 2021 Please click here to view a response from Christopher Pincher MP, Minister of State for Housing in regards to the Woodland Trust's concerns about changes to the planning system. Stopping Sea Blasts 18 January 2021 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP on the issue of sea blasts. Kinship Care Survey 18 January 2021 The cross-party Parliamentary Taskforce on Kinship Care, with the support of the Family Rights Group, is running a survey to hear from kinship carers about their experience during the latest lockdown. If you are a kinship carer in Knowsley, please click here to complete the survey. Vaccination Programme 7 January 2021 I have been contacted by a number of constituents eager to learn when they will receive the Covid-19 vaccination, in the first instance I would encourage all constituents to visit www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine for the latest information. Please find below a statement by the Chief Executive of Knowsley Clinical Commissioning Group, Dianne Johnson, on this issue. “Whilst we understand people will be keen to know when they are likely to have their COVID19 vaccination, there is no need for patients to contact their GP practice, or any other NHS organisation, to ask for their vaccination – or to request one for a member of their family – they will be invited when it is time for them to be vaccinated, either by a letter or a phone call. The borough’s GP practices are working together to vaccinate patients, so patients might not be contacted by their usual practice, and patients will attend one of the vaccination hubs rather than their practice, they will be told where to attend when they are invited in. When they have had their first vaccination patients will be given an appointment for their second dose. Not all areas of the borough have started vaccinating yet, so patients should not be worried if they or a family member is over 80 but hasn’t heard anything so far. Patients might know others over 80 who have been invited for their vaccination already, but that doesn’t mean that they are a lower priority. GPs and other practice staff are working hard to vaccinate people in this priority group as quickly as possible, and during January many more people will be invited in. Patience is requested please as we are only at the start of the vaccination programme and it will take some time to get everyone vaccinated. General information about the Covid-19 vaccine and priority groups here: www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine.” If you have received an invitation to receive a vaccination, and are struggling to arrange transport, I would encourage that you contact Healthwatch Knowsley on 0151 449 3954. Brexit and Deal or No Deal 7 January 2021 Parliament has now voted on the Government’s deal with the EU. Even though there are elements of the deal that I am unhappy about, I voted for the deal. In the referendum in 2016, I campaigned to remain in the EU. In Knowsley and overall in the rest of the UK, however, the result was in favour of leaving, albeit by a relatively narrow majority. Up until the general election in December 2019, I had supported the idea of a second confirmatory referendum so that, once a deal was reached, there would be a specific prospectus for Brexit on which the people could make an informed decision. Unfortunately, however, the Tories won that election on the proposition that they would “get Brexit done”. That result effectively killed off any prospect of a further referendum. Last week’s vote in Parliament was, therefore, a binary choice: the deal on offer or no-deal. My view is that the consequences of no-deal would have been disastrous for Knowsley and the rest of the UK as it would have left us wholly at the mercy of World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules. The EU is the top export destination for UK cars with 54.8% of the market share. If the UK was unable to get a deal, under so-called World Trade Organisation non-preferential rules, UK automotive exports would be liable for a 10% tariff on cars and up to 22% on vans and trucks. In the agricultural sector, EU agricultural markets remain protected by relatively high tariffs. For example, the EU average Most Favoured Nation (MFN) tariffs on dairy products are 54%, on sugar 31% and on cereals 22%. The impact WTO rules would have on jobs and food security and prices would, frankly, have been wholly unacceptable for Knowsley and the rest of the country. To have voted against the deal or abstained would implicitly have been to endorse no-deal. So, despite my reservations, I did not think it would have been right to vote for or duck the implications of a no-deal vote. One final point worth making is that we now have a major challenge ahead of us in terms of our own future relationship with the EU and the wider world. As an internationalist, I hope we can build a constructive post-Brexit relationship with the twenty-seven EU countries and good bilateral alliances with many other countries. That must now be our focus as we move ahead as a country. NHS Pay 7 January 2021 Please click here to view a response from Steve Barclay MP, Chief Secretary to the Treasury on the issue of NHS pay. University Students 7 January 2021 I have been contacted by a number of constituents who are currently studying at university. Students are in an unenviable position and many have concerns over the possibility of incurring significant amounts of student debt, whilst not obtaining the expected university experience. For my own part, I would support a reduction of fees to reflect the reduced face-to-face contact through lectures, tutorials, seminars, and other facilities that can be safely delivered as a result of the restrictions necessitated by Covid-19. I have raised my concerns with the Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson MP, and will publish any response I receive. Animal Sentience 7 January 2021 Please click here to view the response from George Eustice MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the issue of animal sentience. Christmas Statement December 2020 The last year has been enormously challenging with the COVID-19 pandemic and the way it has affected all of our lives. Across the UK, tens of thousands of people are testing positive and hundreds are dying daily. For these reasons, it is important to follow all the guidance. I know that there are many misleading conspiracy theories circulating about COVID-19 and vaccines - please do not be misled by them. Hopefully, in 2021, with the increasing availability of vaccines, we will be able to return to something resembling normal life. Although all of our celebrations may be more restricted than we would like, I would like to take this opportunity to send everybody best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. My office will be closed over the Christmas period. If any constituent has a problem, below are some useful contacts in an emergency: - For a range of information on COVID-19 support, SMART Testing, financial support and Council Services, visit Knowsley News. - For issues relating to homelessness contact Knowsley Housing Options Service. - For help from the Samaritan's, you can call them on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org. - For those experiencing a food crisis, contact Knowsley Foodbank. - For information about Covid-19 testing, please click here. - Residents worried about paying their energy bills should contact their supplier - British Gas; EDF; E.on; N.Power; Scottish Power; SSE Credit; Ovo Credit; Shell; Utility Warehouse Local Government Funding 21 December 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about an increasing shortfall in local government funding. First, I believe Knowsley Council have done an excellent job throughout the pandemic with the limited funding they have. I have raised my concerns in relation to local government funding on a number of occasions. Prior to the pandemic, Knowsley Council had already seen a £100m cut in government funding, drastically stretching their ability to provide essential services. The Covid-19 pandemic has only served to stretch these resources even further, putting a greater strain on Knowsley Council's finances. To ignore these demands would be very irresponsible of the government. I have voiced my concerns in the House of Commons throughout the pandemic, transcripts of which you can see here and more recently here. In addition, I have written to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Robert Jenrick MP, on this issue and will publish any response I receive on my website. Cannabis for the Treatment of Epilepsy 21 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill MP, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health, regarding the use of cannabis-based products for the treatment of epilepsy. St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust Vaccination Plans 20 December 2020 Please click here to view correspondence from Ann Marr, CEO of St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust, regarding Covid-19 vaccination plans for St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust Support for Carers 20 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately MP, Minister of State for Care, regarding support for carers during the covid-19 pandemic. Cannabis for Medicinal Use 20 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Jo Churchill MP, Under Secretary of State at the Department of Health, regarding the use of cannabis-based products for medicinal use. UK Aid Budget 20 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Lord Ahmad regarding the UK aid budget. Golf Courses 20 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, regarding the reopening of golf courses. Universal Credit Standard Allowance 20 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury regarding the Universal Credit Standard Allowance and Working Tax Credit basic element. Breast Cancer Funding 20 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding funding for breast cancer research. National Grid's Industry Leading Graduate and Apprenticeship Scheme 14 December 2020 A new opportunity has arisen for those in Knowsley looking for a graduate role or apprenticeship. National Grid UK is recruiting the next generation of problem solvers and creative thinkers to help transform the energy sector to meet #netzero. To find out more click here. Closure of Outdoor Archery Ranges 14 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from John Whittingdale MP, the Minister of State for Media and Data in relation to concerns on the closure of outdoor archery ranges. Radiotherapy4life Catch Up With Cancer Campaign 14 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Prevention, Public Health and Primary Care, Jo Churchill MP in relation to the 'Catch up with Cancer' campaign. UK Microchip Legislation 14 December 2020 Pease click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP in relation to UK microchip legislation. Universal Credit and Current Legacy Benefit Rates 14 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince MP, the Minister for Welfare Delivery in relation to Universal Credit and the current legacy benefit rates. Social Care Funding 14 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding social care funding. Cancer Support Funding 14 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury in relation to increased spending on cancer services. Supertrawlers 8 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice MP, Secretary of State for the Environment, regarding banning the use of supertrawlers in UK Marine Protected Areas. Foreign National Rough Sleepers 8 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Chris Philp, Minister for Immigration, regarding foreign national rough sleepers in the UK. SCOPE - 'Reforming the Welfare System' 8 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Justin Tomlinson MP, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, regarding Scope's report entitled 'Reforming the Welfare System. Wider Opening of Schools 8 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Nick Gibb, Minister of State for School Standards, regarding the wider opening of schools during the Covid-19 pandemic. Jamaica Charter Flight 8 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Chris Philp, Minister for Immigration, regarding the charter flight to Jamaica on 2 December. Priadel and Camcolit 8 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Lord Bethell regarding the discontinuation of Priadel and the price of Camcolit. Beer Duty 8 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding Beer Duty. 'Catch up with Cancer' 2 December 2020 I am supporting the 'Catch up with Cancer' campaign, which is calling on the government to improve cancer services and provide the NHS with the resources to deal with the COVID-19 induced cancer backlog. You can find out more about the campaign by clicking here. Pub and Brewery Sector 2 December 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about the future of the pub and brewery sector as a result of Covid-19 restrictions. I have raised these concerns with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and I will put a copy of any response received on my website. Hospitality Industry 2 December 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about the impact of the tier system on the hospitality sector following the expiration of the national lockdown. I have raised this matter with the Chancellor of the Exchequer and will put a copy of any response received on my website. In the meantime, Knowsley Council have introduced the Hospitality, Leisure and Retail Grant to support business in those industries. The grant is available until Friday 11th December and you can find out more information by clicking here Rolls Royce 2 December 2020 Please click here to view a response from Nadhim Zahawi, Minister for Business and Industry, regarding the future of the Rolls Royce site at Barnoldswick. 2020 Spending Review 25 November 2020 I have been contacted by a number of constituents regarding the 2020 Spending Review that is due to take place today. Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury which sets out their plans to focus entirely on the response to Covid-19 and supporting jobs. Fox Hunting 25 November 2020 I have been contacted by a number of constituents concerned that trail hunting is being used to facilitate fox hunting on public land. I would like to assure my constituents that I am opposed to any easing of restrictions set out in the 2004 Hunting Act. At the 2019 General Election, as part of our Animal Welfare Manifesto, the Labour Party proposed strengthening the Hunting Act to close any potential loopholes. Please accept my assurances that I will continue to monitor this issue. Diabetes UK 'Cheque for Tech' 25 November 2020 I have been contacted by a number of constituents regarding increased funding for diabetes technology. I have been raising this issue in Parliament for a number of years, and in December 2018, I led an adjournment debate on artificial pancreas systems, you can view the debate here. More recently I wrote to the Chancellor to ask to consider additional funding as part of the 2020 Spending Review, you can view the response here. Homelessness and the 2020 Spending Review 25 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Steve Barclay MP at HM Treasury, in response to my letter asking a commitment to prioritise funding for homelessness services in the 2020 Spending Review. Fund the Fire and Rescue Service 25 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Steve Barclay MP at HM Treasury regarding the funding of fire services. Badger Cull 25 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP regarding badger culling. Medical Research Charities 25 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding protecting medical research undertaken by charities such as the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK. NHS Fertility Services 25 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Lord Bethell at the Department of Health and Social Care regarding the provision on fertility services during the Covid-19 pandemic. Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori 20 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from James Cleverly, Minister of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, concerning Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori. NHS Funding 20 November 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me calling for an increase in funding for the NHS in the upcoming spending review. I have raised this matter with the Chancellor and will put a copy of any response received on my website. Environment Bill 20 November 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Environment Bill, which has reached the Committee Stage in the House of Commons. As I am chairing the Committee Stage of the Bill, I am unable to comment on it. Parliamentary Scrutiny of UK Aid 19 November 2020 On 16 June the Prime Minister announced to Parliament that the Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) would merge. The new international department, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), was launched on 2 September 2020. In the government’s response to the International Development Committee’s Second & Fourth Reports (Effectiveness of UK Aid: Interim Report & Effectiveness of UK Aid: potential impact of FCO/DFID merger); the government said [regarding scrutiny arrangements]: 'The Government agrees that Parliament has an important role in scrutinising UK aid spending. Select committees are fundamental in scrutinising the Government’s spending and policies, and we are grateful for the constructive and collaborative approach adopted by the International Development Committee. The Government’s view is that Select Committees in the Commons should generally mirror Government departments. The Prime Minister has said, he expects Parliament will want to set up a new committee to scrutinise the new department. Ultimately the structure and remit of Select Committees is a matter for Parliament'. The correspondence [latest publications] between the Chair of the International Development Sub-Committee on the Work of the Independent Commission for Aid Impact and the Foreign Secretary, published 17 November, in which the Chair raises some of your concerns about the role and responsibility of the new FCDO. I am not aware of any imminent vote on changes to committee arrangements. If there is a vote, I will look carefully at what is being proposed. With regards to UK policy on overseas aid, I am committed to the UK investing 0.7% of Gross National Income (GNI) on international development. 'Access to Nature' 19 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Environment Secretary regarding the 'Access to Nature' campaign. Pubs and Breweries - Covid-19 19 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Amanda Solloway, Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business, regarding support for pubs and breweries during the covid-19 pandemic. Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme 19 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. Cancer Research Funding 19 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding funding for cancer research. NHS Staff Pay 19 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Steve Barclay, regarding NHS staff pay. Nutrition - Covid-19 19 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Wendy Morton, Minister of State at the Foreign Office, regarding the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on nutrition, particularly in relation to some of the poorest people in the world. Universal Credit Uplift 19 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Will Quince, Minister for Welfare Delivery, regarding the £20 Universal Credit uplift. Remembrance Day 2020 11 November 2020 Despite the restrictions, I wanted to pay tribute to those who have served so valiantly for our country. Here is a picture of me laying my poppy wreath. They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them. 2021 Exams 11 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Nick Gibb MP, the Minister of State for School Standards, regarding examinations taking place in 2021. Persecution of Christians during the Covid-19 pandemic 11 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon, Minister of State for South Asia and the Commonwealth, regarding the persecution of Christians. Education - Covid-19 Restrictions 9 November 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me calling for the closure of schools and colleges as part of the current lockdown. Last week, there was a vote in the House of Commons to implement the most recent Covid-19 restrictions, and you can see how I voted here. I do, however, share your concern, but I am not convinced that the approach of closing down schools and colleges would be appropriate. It would have profound consequences for children and young people’s future prospects and their mental health. I will, nevertheless, keep a close eye on developments and would not firmly rule out supporting such a closure if the evidence points in that direction. Graded Exercise Therapy 9 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Department for Health and Social Care regarding the use of Graded Exercise Therapy for the treatment of CFS and ME. Covid-19 Legislation 5 November 2020 Many people have contacted me regarding legislation, passed on 4 November 2020, to implement a four week lockdown in England. My view is that the restrictions are necessary in order to try to bring the number of infections down, prevent further deaths and protect the NHS. In Knowsley, when the Tier 3 restrictions were introduced, the infection rate peaked at 716.4 per 100,000 (as of 12 October 2020), so it has been a serious problem. Even though the rate of infections has now fallen to 589.3 per 100,000 (as of 23 October 2020), it remains a grave problem. This legislation should have been brought forward following the advice of Sage which the government was aware of on 21 September 2020. The advice from Sage can be found here. The government has been far too slow to act. You can check how I voted and read a transcript of the debate that took place here in Hansard. Overseas Operations (Service Personnel and Veterans) Bill 4 November 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me about the Overseas Operations (Service Personnel and Veterans) Bill. On 3 November, alongside Labour colleagues, I voted against the Third Reading of this Bill but, MPs passed the legislation by 345 to 260 (majority 85). In addition, three further divisions took place on Amendment 1, Amendment 32 and New Clause 5. Despite voting in favour of all three, MPs again voted them down. You can read a transcript of the debate that took place here in Hansard. Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashooori 4 November 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me calling for the release and return of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashooori, who are currently imprisoned in Iran. I have raised this matter with the Foreign Secretary, and will put a copy of any response received on my website. An Urgent Question about this issue was raised in the House of Commons on 3 November, a transcript of which you can view here. Maternity Services - Covid-19 4 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from Nadine Dorries, Minister of State at the Department of Health & Social Care, regarding maternity services during the Covid-19 pandemic. Breast Cancer Funding 4 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury concerning funding for breast cancer care, treatment and research in the Spending Review. Zoos & Aquariums - Covid-19 4 November 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Environment Secretary, George Eustice, regarding support for zoos and aquariums during the Covid-19 pandemic. £20 uplift to Universal Credit 28 October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me regarding making the £20 uplift to Universal Credit permanent, and expanding the provision to include those on legacy benefits. I have written to the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak MP to urge him to consider these proposals. I will publish any response I receive. Asylum Seeker's Right to Work 28 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Immigration Compliance and the Courts, Chris Philip MP. EU Negotiations. 28 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from Paymaster General, Penny Mordaunt MP regarding concerns over EU negotiations. Environmental Issues on the National Curriculum 23 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for School Standards, Nick Gibb MP regarding environmental issues on the National Curriculum. Free School Meals 22 October 2020 Yesterday, during Prime Minister’s Questions, I asked the Prime Minister is he will make a moral and political choice to assure the 7,108 children in Knowsley reliant on free school meals, that they will be able to access extended provision during the holidays until Easter 2021. You can view what I said here or read a transcript here. Despite calls by the Labour Party, the proposal was later voted down by the government 322 votes to 261. You can view a transcript of the debate here. British Heart Foundation 22 October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me regarding financial support for the British Heart Foundation. I have raised this with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Stephen Barclay MP to ask that he urgently review government support to charities such as the British Heart Foundation who make an invaluable contribution to research into heart and circulatory diseases. Any response I recieve will be published online. Support for the Hospitality Industry 22 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Labour Markets, Paul Scully MP on government support for the restart, recovery and revival of the hospitality industry. Sale of Arms to Israel 22 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly MP on the sale of arms to Israel. Access to Abortion 19 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Department of Health and Social Care, regarding access to abortion during the Covid-19 pandemic. Covert Human Intelligence Sources (Criminal Conduct) Bill 16 October 2020 The Bill is, as the title suggests, is about covert human intelligence sources. In practice, this means undercover agents who infiltrate terrorist groups, serious organised crime groups, paedophile rings and human trafficking groups. Enabling undercover agents to operate in those difficult circumstances is very important in order to disrupt existential treats such as mass murder, slavery and sexual exploitation as well as the growth of terrorist networks that seek to undermine our free society.The Bill essentially put the ability of undercover agents to carry out such activities on a statutory footing. I do, however, have some concerns about the need for proper safeguards to ensure that the powers are not misused. These concerns were set out by my colleague, Conor McGinn MP in his speech to Parliament which can be found here. The amendments Conor referred to in his speech, which can be found here, reflected the sort of safeguards I believe were necessary. My votes on various amendments can be found here. Unfortunately, however, those amendments were defeated. This meant that, although I thought it necessary to put the activities on a statutory footing, the safeguards I thought were not incorporated in the Bill. In those circumstances, I did not want to oppose the principle of the Bill but could not support it in its current form. That being the case, abstaining on the third reading was, in my view, and appropriate response. Restrictions on Birth Partners 16 October 2020 I have been contacted by a number of concerned constituents regarding the restrictions to birth partners to access scans and births. I have raised this with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Matt Hancock MP. Any response I receive will be published online. Whilst I await a response, you can view here a response from the Chief Executive of St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Ann Marr OBE on this issue. E-Scooters 14 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Transport, Grant Shapps, regarding e-scooter trials. School Breakfast Bill 14 October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me regarding the School Breakfast Bill, which will ensure free breakfasts are provided to schools with high numbers of disadvantaged pupils. I very much support the Bill and am pleased it passed its First Reading yesterday. The Second Reading is due to take place on 5 February 2021. Agriculture Bill 14 October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Agriculture Bill, and amendments to the Bill which sought to uphold British food and animal welfare standards in future trade deals. Together with my Labour colleagues, I voted in favour of the amendments, which were put before the House of Commons on 12 October. Unfortunately, the amendments were rejected and the Bill will be returned to the House of Lords. You can view the progress of the Bill here. Aegean Islands Migrant Camps 12 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Immigration, Chris Philp, regarding migrant camps on the Aegean Islands. World Food Day 16th October 9 October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me regarding 'World Food Day' on 16th October. I have written to the Foreign Secretary, Dominic Raab MP, to ask that he make further aid commitments to end the rising cases of malnutrition following the Covid-19 pandemic. I will publish any response I recieve. Pancreatic Cancer UK's 'No Time to Wait' Campaign 9 October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me regarding Pancreatic Cancer UK's 'No Time to Wait' Campaign. I share their concerns over the disruptions to cancer services and diagnoses during the Covid-19 pandemic. I have been in frequent contact with Pancreatic Cancer UK throughout the pandemic. I previously raised this issue with the Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance, you can view their response here. Finally, I have added my signature to the 'Catch up with Cancer Campaign' EDM710, you can view my signature here. Shelter's Report 'Building Our Way Out' 9 October 2020 A number of constituents have written to me to draw my attention to the Shelter report 'Building Our Way Out'. I do support the recommendations in the report and have written to the Secretary of State for Housing, Robert Jenrick MP, asking him to give serious consideration to adopting them. I will publish any response I receive. You can view the report here. Financial Help for those stranded abroad 9 October 2020 Following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, I repeatedly wrote the Foreign Secretary and the Chancellor to ask for financial assistance for those stranded abroad. Please click here to view the response I received from Nigel Adams MP, Minister of State for Asia. Hen Harriers 9 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from George Eustice MP, the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, regarding the illegal killing of hen harriers and other birds of prey. Impact of Centre Assessed Grades on Universities 9 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from Michelle Donelan MP, Minister of State for Universities regarding the impact of Centre Assessed Grades on universities. NHS Pay 9 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding NHS Pay. Coronavirus Act Renewal Motion 2 October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Coronavirus Act Renewal Motion, and have asked that I support a number of amendments to the motion. The Speaker declined to call any amendments and the motion was passed 330 to 24. Together with the majority of my Labour colleagues, I did not block the motion as I recognise that, in a pandemic, any government requires extraordinary powers. However, the Act is by no means perfect and I am disappointed with the government’s all or nothing approach. You can find further details by clicking here. Animal Sentience 2 October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me calling on the government to introduce Animal Sentience legislation at the earliest opportunity, thus ensuring it is in place post-Brexit. I have raised this matter with the Environment Secretary, and will put a copy of any response received on my website. Asylum Seeker Employment Criteria 2 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Immigration, Chris Philp MP, regarding permission to work for asylum seekers. Beer Duty 2 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding Beer Duty. Post-16 Education 2 October 2020 Please click here and here to view responses from the Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson MP, regarding support for the Post-16 education sector during the Covid-19 pandemic. Refugee Resettlement in the UK 2 October 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Immigration, Chris Philp MP, regarding the resettlement of refugees in the UK. Covid-19 Restrictions October 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me to enquire about how the tier three restrictions in the Liverpool City Region will affect them. Constituents may find it helpful to view this table, as it provides a simplified view of the restrictions. The Department of Health & Social Care also provide further information about the restrictions here. More generally, I believe the three tier system announced by the government is problematic for two reasons. First, it is not accompanied by a financial package sufficient to protect jobs and businesses in Knowsley and the wider city region. Secondly, SAGE have said that they do not go far enough. We need a circuit breaker which would be more effective in bringing down the rate of infections. I believe we should follow that advice. Covid-19 Statement October 2020 The new restrictions for our area, announced on 1 October 2020, were in response to a sharp increase in infections in Knowsley and the Liverpool City Region. Council Leaders and local MP's, myself included, believe that additional restrictions are justified. We do, however, have criticisms of the way in which the government is handling the pandemic and the lack of transparency over the scientific evidence on which the decisions are based. Moreover, we have made it clear to the government that, if we are to avoid the collapse of the hospitality, leisure and retail sectors in the city region, with consequential job losses, a financial support package of some £700 million is urgently needed. We are pressing very hard on this. Earlier this week, the emergency powers legislation was renewed. The Brady amendment, which would give parliament more say in the introduction of any new powers, was unfortunately not selected by the Speaker. Had it been so, I would have supported it. The government has indicated that parliament will have more involvement and, as the opposition, we will use those opportunities to highlight where the government is going wrong and what improvements are necessary. It is important that we all recognise that Covid-19 is still present, and in recent weeks, the number of infections in Knowsley and our city region has increased alarmingly. That being the case, it would be irresponsible not to support increased restrictions to reduce the spread. I understand and share people's frustration that these measures have been introduced. Not being able to visit loved ones or enjoy our leisure time is a big sacrifice to make. If we are to return to a more normal life, however, we cannot allow the infection rate to continue unchecked. I would urge people not to follow online conspiracy theories. The virus is with us and is killing people all over the world. I urge people to follow the restrictions fully so that we can all play a part in stopping the virus spreading and killing more people. Calling on the Health Secretary to Improve Covid-19 Testing 30 September 2020 Today I have written to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Matt Hancock MP, calling for the Covid-19 testing system to be run by the local NHS in cooperation with Knowsley Council. From my discussions with local hospital trusts, Knowsley Council and Healthwatch Knowsley, I have been able to establish that the testing capacity in Knowsley could be significant by using the NHS, rather than the Serco system which is costly and not fit for purpose. You can view my letter here. Green Recovery 28 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from Kwasi Kwarteng MP, Minister of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Clean Growth, regarding the government's plans for a green recovery. 'Stop Cancer becoming the Forgotten C' 28 September 2020 I am supporting Macmillan's 'Stop Cancer becoming the Forgotten C' campaign. Coronavirus has caused a devastating backlog in cancer treatment and care. This campaign calls on the government to do all they can to reduce the backlog and ensure cancer isn't forgotten during or after this pandemic. You can find out more about the campaign by clicking here. Counselling in Schools 28 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from Vicky Ford MP, Under-Secretary of State for Children and Families, concerning funding for counselling in schools. UNISON - Give NHS Staff a Payrise 25 September 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me in support of UNISON's campaign to increase the NHS staff salary by £2000 per year. I very much support the campaign, and have contacted the Chancellor and Prime Minister about this matter. Any responses received will be put on my website. Environment Bill 25 September 2020 A number of constituents have been in touch asking me to support a change to the Environment Bill, enshrining the WHO's guideline for PM2.5 into law. I am chairing the Committee Stage of the Bill and am, therefore, unable to comment. However, I am sure the issue will be considered at Committee Stage. Overseas Operations Bill 25 September 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about the Overseas Operations Bill. The Bill passed its Second Reading on 23 September and has progressed to the Committee Stage, where Labour will seek to amend and improve the legislation. Support for the Aerospace Sector 25 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from Nadhim Zahawi MP, Minister for Business and Industry, regarding financial support for the aerospace sector. Non-hospital Covid Deaths 25 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Department for Health and Social Care regarding data relating to the number of non-hospital covid deaths. Covid-19 and Higher and Further Education 25 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Universities, Michelle Donelan MP, regarding the impact of Covid-19 on Higher and Further Education. Investor-State Dispute Settlements 25 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for International Trade, Ranil Jayawardena MP, regarding Investor-State Dispute Settlements. Refugee Channel Crossings 25 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Immigration, Chris Philp MP, regarding refugee channel crossings. Children's Mental Wellbeing 21 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from Vicky Ford MP, Under-Secretary of State for Children and Families, regarding children's mental wellbeing and the Children's Society's Good Childhood Report. VAT on Suncreen 21 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding the possibility of reducing or removing VAT on suncreen. No-Deal EU Exit 9 September 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about a no-deal exit from the EU at the end of the transition period. I strongly agree that a no-deal approach which the government are threatening would be disastrous for our economy and good standing with the EU and wider world. I will not support such an outcome. Workplace Protections for People with Diabetes 9 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Business, Energy and Clean Growth, Kwasi Kwarteng MP, regarding protections in the workplace for people with Diabates during the Covid-19 outbreak. Gender Equality in Foreign Policy 7 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from Baroness Sugg, Parliamentary Under- Secretary of State in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and Special Envoy for Girls' Education, regarding ensuring gender equality at the heart of foreign policy. Kirkby Neighbourhood Community Fund 2020 2 September 2020 Suez have announced that the 2020 Kirkby Neighbourhood Community Fund is now open for applications. Up to £50,000 is available for community groups developing community, health and wellbeing and environmental projects in Northwood, Cherryfield, Shevington, Whitefield and Knowsley Village. Applications need to be submitted by Monday 19 October 2020 and the successful projects will be announced at the end of the autumn. For more information and to download an application form please click here. Agriculture Bill 2019-21 2 September 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me concerning the Agriculture Bill and to raise concerns about the regulation of food standards in the UK once the transition period ends. I share these concerns and will not support any deal in parliament that fails to provide proper protection. The Agriculture Bill was last debated in the House of Commons on 13th May, before being passed to the House of Lords. Three amendments were put to the House on 13th May, New Clause 2, New Clause 7 and Amendment 39. I voted in favour of New Clause 2, which relates to imported food complying with UK food standards. Unfortunately this was defeated 328 to 277. I also voted for New Clause 7, put forward by Keir Starmer MP, which would introduce a Coronavirus emergency food plan. Unfortunately this amendment was also defeated 352 to 221 votes. The Agriculture Bill is currently at the Report Stage in the House of Lords. A number of constituents are also calling on the government to prioritise an Animal Sentience Law. I have previously raised this with the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and you can view a copy of the response received here. I will continue to monitor these issues closely and will continue to hold the government to account. Local Government Funding 2 September 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about a shortfall in funding for local services. I have raised this matter with the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, and I will put a copy of any response received on this website. Business and Planning Bill 2020 2 September 2020 A number of constituents have contacted me to raise concerns about planning reforms in the Business and Planning Bill 2020. I have raised this matter with the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, and I will put a copy of any response received on this website. Obtaining Refunds for Cancelled Flights 2 September 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary of State for Transport regarding the difficulties many people are facing obtaining a refund for cancelled flights during the Covid-19 pandemic. Merseyrail Travel Information 27 August 2020 As people are beginning to return to public transport, Merseyrail are reminding passengers of the extra measures they have put in place to keep both passengers and staff safe. Please click here for more information. West Coast Railway Bank Holiday Disruption 27 August 2020 Network Rail have advised that upgrades are taking place on the west coast mainline. They advise passengers to plan ahead for bank holiday journeys in and around Liverpool over the 29th-31st August bank holiday. You can find out more information here. British Business Bank's Start Up Loans 27 August 2020 British Business Bank have hit a milestone of issuing 75,00 loans, with 119 being issued in Knowsley worth £1,003,237. To find out more please click here. International Debt 27 August 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding internarional debt in low-income countries. Crisis 'A Home for All' Campaign 27 August 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government regarding the 'A Home for All' campaign by the charity Crisis. Mahmoud Nawajaa 27 August 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly MP regarding the case of Mahmoud Nawajaa. Aerospace Sector 27 August 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Business and Industry, Nadhim Zahawi MP regarding the aerospace sector. Supertrawlers 27 August 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Secretary for State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP regarding supertrawlers. Environmental Roundtable 27 August 2020 Following a previous online meeting with constituents regarding their concerns about environmental issues, I agreed to host an online roundtable with key stakeholders from Knowsley Council and the Liverpool City Region., which took place on Thursday 6th August 2020. I am grateful that we were able to cover a wide variety of issues including household waste, green development, schools, public transport and the plans by Knowsley Council and the Liverpool City Region to become net carbon zero by 2040. I was impressed by the number of green projects that are being undertaken, and I am confident that they will have a positive impact in our region and to the planet. Given the current circumstances, I am aware that a lot of constituents are eager to take up more walking and cycling to improve their health and as an alternative to other types of transport. I was pleased to learn the Liverpool City Region has plans to increase the amount of pop up cycling lanes, with hopes to secure funding for more ambitious schemes to create more permanent and semi-permanent cycle lanes. In addition, Knowsley Council has increased efforts to encourage more cycling in Knowsley and build confidence in residents to use these cycle routes. Recent investment has enabled the widening of walkways to include more cycle lanes. You can view a cycle map for Knowsley here, and maps for the wider Liverpool City Region here. Covid-19 and Blood Cancer 19 August 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding support for people with blood cancer during the Covid-19 outbreak. Covid-19 and Child Benefit 19 August 2020 Please click here to view a response from HM Treasury regarding financial support for families through the Covid-19 outbreak. Reception Baseline Assessment 19 August 2020 Please click here to view a response from Nick Gibb MP, Minister of State for School Standards, regarding the Reception Baseline Assessment. As You Write It Competition 11 August 2020 The Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot has teamed up with the One Show to create an exciting new writing competition. The competition is open to all children and young people aged between 7 and 16 years old.The final three winners will receive a special award and have their play performed at The Shakespeare North Playhouse when it opens in 2022. The deadline for is just before midnight on Monday 31st August 2020. For more information please click here. Write to Work Competition 11 August 2020 Write to Work is looking for new participants to enter its 12 week free writing programme that is specifically for unemployed people who live in the Liverpool City Region. The course will be delivered entirely online in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Over 12 weeks it will deliver specialist writing workshops via Zoom video conferencing, hosted by published writers and industry professionals, all offering their personal insights and tips for succes. Applications close on 17 August, for more information please click here. Hong Kong 11 August 2020 Please click here to view the response from Nigel Adams MP, the Minister of State for Asia, regarding the siutation in Hong Kong. Support for Creative Industries 11 August 202 Please click here to view the response from Caroline Dinenage MP, the Minister of State for Digital and Culture in regards to support for grassroots music venues and the creative industry sector. Foreign Office Merger 11 August 2020 Please click here to view the response from James Duddridge MP, the Minister for Africa, regarding the merger of the Department for International Development and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, to create the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Mohammed Ramadhan and Husain Moosa 11 August 2020 Please click here to view the response from James Cleverly MP, the Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, regarding the death sentences against Mohammed Ramadhan and Husain Moosa in Bahrain. Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage 5 August 2020 Application for the Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage are open. Deadline Midday 17 August, click here for details. Refunds for Cancelled Flights 5 August 2020 Please click here to view the response from Chris Heaton-Harris MP, the Minister of State for Transport, regarding refunds for cancelled flights. Rough Sleeping 5 August 2020 Please click here to view the response from the Luke Hall MP, the Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing, regarding emergency accomodation for rough sleepers. Covid-19 Testing 5 August 2020 Please click here to view the response from the Department of Health and Social Care regarding the testing of Covid-19. Support for Theatres and the Creative Industy Sector 5 August 2020 Please click here to view the response from the Caroline Dinenage MP, the Minister of State for Digital and Culture. regarding the support for theatres and the creative industry sector during the Covid-19 pandemic. Contacting your GP during Covid-19 29 July 2020 A number of health organisations have contacted my office encouraging people to contact their GP if they are unwell during the current pandemic. Target Ovarian Cancer have specifically raised concerns with me about the drop in ovarian cancer referrals since March, and they are encouraging woman to contact their GP if they are experiencing symptoms of ovarian cancer. Symptoms include a bloated tummy; permanently feeling full; needing to urinate more often and stomach pain. For more information about ovarian cancer and the work of Target Ovarian Cancer, please click here. For more information about cancer symptoms, please click here. Emergency Grassroots Music Venues Fund 29 July 2020 The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has announced the launch of a £2.25 million Emergency Grassroots Music Venues Fund to support grassroots live music venues at imminent risk of insolvency. This £2.25 million fund is designed to help organisations remain solvent until 30 September, and will be available to a broad range of venues that present live grassroots music events to the public. The fund is opened for applications from this Saturday 25 July 2020 until midday on 3 August 2020. Applicants can apply for funding ranging from £1,000 up to £80,000, to cover operational costs incurred between 4 August and 30 September 2020. Further information can be found by clicking here. BAME History Teaching in Schools 29 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from Nick Gibb MP, Minister of State for School Standards, regarding the teaching of BAME history in schools. Trade Bill 23 July 2020 On Monday 20 July, the Trade Bill was put to the House of Commons for its third reading. I had voted in favour of all amendments put to the House: New Clause 4, New Clause 11, New Clause 17 and Amendment 10. Unfortunately none of these amendments were passed and the Bill will now go to the House of Lords for consideration. You can view a transcript of the debate here, and view my voting record here. Universal Credit for under 25s 23 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Welfare Delivery, Will Quince MP, regarding extending Universal Credit to under 25s. UK Travel Industry 23 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Labour Markets, Paul Scully MP regarding the future of the UK travel industry. 'Parent Talk' 20 July 2020 Parent Talk is a new and free online support service from Action for Children that is designed to support parents during lockdown. Support includes connecting parents with trained and experienced parenting coaches, in addition to providing tools which include financial, relationship and emotional advice. For more information, please visit www.parent-talk.org.uk/happy. Covid-19 and Social Security Benefits 20 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Welfare Delivery, Will Quince MP, regarding social secuirty benefits during the Covid-19 pandemic. Policing and BAME Communities 20 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Crime and Policing, Kit Malthouse MP, regarding policing and BAME communities. Chester Zoo 20 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Environment Secretary, George Eustice MP, regarding the reopening of Chester Zoo. Annexation of the West Bank 20 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly MP, regarding reports about the possible annexation of parts of the West Bank. Face-to-Face Health and Disability Assessments 20 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister for Disabled People, Justin Tomlinson MP, regarding face-to-face health and disability assessments. University Funding 20 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Universities, Michelle Donelan MP, regarding support for the Higher Education sector post Covid-19. Support for Asylum Seekers 20 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from Chris Philp MP, Minister for Immigration, regarding financial support for asylum seekers. Domestic Abuse Bill 10 July 2020 A number of constituents contacted me about the Domestic Abuse Bill. The debate on the Bill and how I voted on amendments can be found here. Beauty salons 10 July 2020 I co-signed a letter to the Prime Minister urging him to offer a lifeline to those employed in the beauty industry and unable to work while salons remained and am pleased to note the reopening of salons on 13 July. You can find a copy of the letter here. Theatres and the Arts 10 July 2020 I supported the campaign for additional support for theatres and the arts and was a co-signatory of this letter to the Prime Minister. While welcoming the support the government has subsequently announced for theatres, many performers and those employed in work supporting the cultural sector, such as technicians, are not included in the package and I continue to press the case for those people. ExcludedUK 10 July 2020 At the request of constituents, I joined the inaugural meeting of the ExcludedUK All Party Parliamentary Group, which has been established to highlight the plight of self-employed workers who are not receiving government support during the COVID-19 crisis. I have raised concerns with ministers on behalf of many individual constituents and businesses and will continue to campaign for those workers. You can also view a recent report from ExcludedUK here regarding the challenges and impact of exclusion from Covid-19 financial support schemes provided by the UK Government. Airlines 10 July 2020 I have been supporting airline and travel industry employees, including EasyJet and BA workers and have signed Unite's BA pledge. Staff who work for British Airways deserve better treatment than they have had from the company. That is why I wholeheartedly support the campaign to stop British Airways from Betraying Britain. The same sentiment applies to other airline workers. Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children 10 July 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Minister of State for Security, James Brokenshire MP, regarding family reunion for unaccompanied asylum seeking children. Children's Services Funding 29 June 2020 Please click here to view a response I have received from Simon Clarke MP, Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government, reagrding funding for children's services. Homelessness and Rough Sleeping 29 June 2020 Please click here to view a response from the Cabinet Office regarding homelessness and rough sleeping during the COVID-19 pandemic. Belly Mujinga 29 June 2020 Please click here to view a response from Chris Heaton-Harris MP, Minister of State for Transport, regarding the investigation into the death of Belly Mujinga at Victoria Station. Access to Abortion Services 29 June 2020 Please click here to view a response from Helen Whately, Minister of State for Care, regarding access to abortion services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scope - 'The Disability Report 29 June 2020 Please click here to view a response from Justin Tomlinson, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, regarding the government's response to Scope's Disabilty Report. Diabetes and Returning to Work 29 June 2020 Please click here to view a response from Lord Callanan, regarding people with diabetes who are concerned about returning to work. LFC - 'Stay Safe. Support from Home' 19 June 2020 Liverpool Football Club are encouraging supporters to support the team from home whilst games are played behind closed doors. You can find out more information about the club’s ‘Stay Safe. Support from Home’ message by clicking here. Arms Export Licences to the United States 17 June 2020 Please click here to view a response I have received from Ranil Jayawardena, Minister for International Trade, regarding the issuing of Arms Export Licences to the United States. Dominic Cummings 12 June 2020 I recently contacted the Prime Minister stating that Dominic Cummings position was untenable due to his conduct during the lockdown. Please click here to view the response I have received from 10 Downing Street. PPE for Care Homes 12 June 2020 Please click here to view the response I have received from the Minister of State for Care, Helen Whately, regarding the availability of PPE for care homes. I will continue to monitor this matter closely. Re-opening Knowsley Safari Park 12 June 2020 I am pleased that the government has agreed to safari parks and zoos re-opening from Monday 15 June, and I am pleased to have played a part in the campaign to persuade the government to do so. You can see the Early Day Motion that I tabled here. Black Lives Matter 12 June 2020 I am deeply concerned about recent developments in the United States, particularly in relation to the abhorrent murder of George Floyd. I have added my name to a letter that my colleague, Dawn Butler MP, has sent to the government calling for a halt to the export of riot control projectiles and equipment to the United States. You can view the letter here. I have also signed EDM 520 on this. In addition, I have asked the Home Office to carry out an urgent review of systematic racism in the criminal justice system. EU Trade Deal 12 June 2020 The General Election in December last year effectively confirmed the previous referendum result to leave the EU. That, however, preceded the current COVID-19 crisis which will, inevitably, lead to severe economic consequences and job losses. We already know, for example, from the Office for National Statistics, that the UK economy shrank by 20.4% in April. That makes it doubly important that we get a good trade deal with the EU, otherwise the economic prospects for our country will be even worse. I believe it is right in these circumstances to extend the transition period beyond the end of this year in order to avoid leaving with a deal that would put our economy at even greater risk. That is Labour's position too and we will continue to press for more time to protect our jobs and businesses. Any other trade deals, for example with the US, must ensure that our food standards and workplace protections are protected. Israel and the West Bank 12 June 2020 I have raised my concerns about the recent actions of the Israeli government with the Foreign Secretary. Face-to-Face Benefit Assessments 12 June 2020 I have asked the Work and Pensions Secretary to reconsider face-to-face benefit assessments for those with mental health problems. Work Place Support for those with Diabetes 12 June 2020 As Vice-Chair of the All Party Group on Diabetes, I have been working with Diabetes UK to try and persuade the government to provide additional work place support for those with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. Save our Airports and British Airways 12 June 2020 I have strongly supported the campaigns to protect our airports, and jobs at British Airways. Re-opening Schools 12 June 2020 I have raised a number of issues about the safety of schools reopening too early. Many thanks to Knowsley Head Teachers, parents and Knowsley Council for letting me know about the practical problems as well as health concerns they have. Co-Op Report into Retail Crime 12 March 2020 On 4 February, I wrote to Minister of State for Crime, Policing and the Fire Service, Kit Malthouse MP, regarding the Co-Op's report into abuse towards shop workers. You can read his response here. Eating Disorder Awareness Week Debate 5 March 2020 I was successful in securing a 90 minute debate in Westminster Hall to commemorate Eating Disorder Awareness Week. I used my speech to highlight three issues: the eating disorder diabulimia for those with type 1 diabetes, the impact of celebrity and social media and finally, access to treatment for those with eating disorders. You can watch a video of the debate Here as well as view a transcript on Hansard Here. Make Ends Meet Letter 25 February 2020 I recently signed the Make Ends Meet letter by Alison McGovern MP to the Chancellor and the Prime Minister. This letter is to request them to tackle food poverty in childhood, you can see the letter Here. I will publish any response I recieve. Eating Disorders Awareness Week 20 February 2020 I recently attended a Beat Eating Disorders event in parliament, which raised awareness of the work the charity do and promoted Eating Disorders Awareness Week taking place between Monday 2nd March and Sunday 8th March. Beat Eating Disorders is a UK based eating disorder charity who offer support to those affected by eating disorders. Beat Eating Disorders estimate that 5 million people in the UK are living with or are affected in some way by an eating disorder making the work of charities such as Beat Eating Disorders imperative. For more information about Eating Disorders Awareness Week and the work Beat Eating Disorders do, please click here. Debate on protection for retail workers 11 February 2020 I recently spoke at a debate on protection for retail workers. You can see what I said here and here. Treasury Question on the furture of car manufacturing 11 February 2020 During Treasury Questions, I asked a question on if the governmental proposal for phasing out of diesel, petrol and hybrid vehicles to 2035 has factored in potential job loses in the motor manufacturing industry. You can see what I said here HS2 Question to the Prime Minister 11 February 2020 I recently asked a Question to the Prime Minister about what benefits HS2 will bring to the Liverpool City region. You can see what I said here. Animal Cruelty Sentencing 4 February 2020 In January I was contacted by a number of constituents regarding increasing the maximum sentence for animal cruelty from six months to five years. On 17th January I wrote to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to call on the government to prioritise this proposal. You can see the response here. JDRF 'Pathway to Choice' Report Launch 4 February 2020 I recently hosted an event in the House of Commons for JDRF, a leading type 1 diabetes charity, which funds research to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes. At this event, I called for action to boost access to wearable medical technology for people living with type 1 diabetes. JDRF’s new report Pathway to Choice reveals the barriers to accessing medical tech to better treat the condition. Currently, only a small proportion of people in the UK living with type 1 diabetes use the range of wearable medical devices that are available on the NHS. Those who do can have their long-term health outcomes boosted. But the proportion of people with type 1 diabetes who are on an insulin pump, for example, varies from over 40 per cent in some specialist NHS services to less than five per cent in others. Ihave written to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care regarding what action they are taking to improve access to technology for people with type 1 diabetes – and reduce the barriers patients currently face. Beer Duty 28 January 2020 Please click here to read a response from Simon Clarke, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, regarding beer duty. European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill 2019-20 20 December 2019 I have been appointed by a resolution of the House of Commons as a temporary First Chairman of Ways & Means (a Deputy Speaker) until the House elects Deputy Speakers in the new year. That means that I cannot vote on the European (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill at either the Second Reading or during any of the subsequent parliamentary proceedings. Nor am I able to make any further comment on the progress of the legislation, the content of the Bill or proposed amendments as I am required to maintain strict impartiality. Brexit update 21 October 2019 On Saturday in Parliament, I voted for Oliver Letwin’s amendment to Boris Johnson’s motion. The amendment was carried. This means that Parliament withholds its consent for the deal, unless and until, the withdrawal bill implementing Brexit has been approved by the House of Commons. I voted for the amendment for two main reasons. First, I thought it was a bad deal: it does not provide the assurances I would need to ensure that thousands of manufacturing jobs would not be lost in Knowsley; does not guarantee food and medicine supplies and security; does not provide a trustworthy assurance on workers’ rights and; would fatally undermine the Good Friday Agreement. Secondly, I do not trust Boris Johnson’s assurances. Sadly, he has in his short time as Prime Minister, demonstrated that he cannot be taken at his word. Similarly, I do not trust the Tory Party. On workers’ rights, for example, it was the Tory Party which opted out of the Social Chapter of the Maastricht Treaty, opposed the introduction of the National Minimum Wage under the last Labour government and repeatedly referred to rights in the workplace as ‘red-tape’. Over the coming weeks, the Brexit process will remain uncertain as Parliament considers the relevant legislation. Albeit half-heartedly, Boris Johnson has applied to the EU for an extension. I honestly do not believe that any deal is likely to emerge which meets the concerns I have about how Knowsley and our country will be adversely affected. In the circumstances, therefore, I think it would make sense to put the current deal back to the people, alongside the option to Remain. I do understand the reasons why more than half of the people of Knowsley voted to leave in 2016, but it has become increasingly clear that none of those reasons are likely to be met by this deal. None of us - me included – could have known how complicated and damaging the process of leaving the EU would turn out to be. That being the case, I think it would make sense for all of the us to have the opportunity to confirm whether or not this deal is right for our country. Staffing, funding and operation of the Railway 17 October 2019 Please click here to read a response from Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport, about the staffing, funding and operation of our railways. Child Online Safety 16 October 2019 I recently visited St Columba’s Catholic Primary School to discuss online safety as part of Google’s ‘Be Internet Legends’ campaign. The campaign is aimed at 7-11 year olds and teaches them to use the internet safely in a fun and informative way. Children learn to avoid hackers, phishers and bullies via workshops, assemblies, online platforms and free training resources. For more information about the campaign please click here. Albemarle & Bond / Herbert Brown Pawnbrokers 15 October 2019 Please click here for a response from the Financial Conduct Authority regarding the decision by Speedloan Finance Ltd to close their pawnbroker stores, trading as Albemarle & Bond and Herbert Brown. Giving Tuesday 1 October 2019 I recently met with the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) to hear about the essential role that charities play in bringing communities together. One way that charities can promote the work they do is through the Giving Tuesday campaign. The Giving Tuesday campaign holds the world record for the most amount of money raised online in 24 hours, and aims to help as many charities as possible and celebrate the causes we all care about. For more information please visit www.givingtuesday.org.uk and www.cafonline.org. Alcohol Health Alliance’s ‘What would you choose?’ campaign 27 September 2019 In England, alcohol is the leading risk factor of death, ill-health, and disability for those aged 15-49. Between 2012 and 2017, alcohol-specific deaths have risen by 10% in the UK. I pledge my support for an increase in alcohol duty to help fund health and prevention services. Alcohol causes substantial harms to families and communities across the UK. When asked by members of the Alcohol Health Alliance the stark question – what would you choose? – the answer is clear. I am backing targeted, evidence-based measures aimed at making our communities safer and reducing alcohol harm. For more information, please visit: www.ahauk.org The National Lottery Community Fund 25 September 2019 The National Lottery Community Fund is now available to fund new projects that bring people together and build strong relationships in and across communities. In 2018/19, the National Lottery Community Fund awarded over £500 million to community projects. For more information please visit www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding. Alzheimer's Research UK 'Share the Orange' Campaign 19 September 2019 I am supporting Alzheimer's Research UK’s ‘Share the Orange’ campaign, which aims to raise awareness and improve understanding of the diseases that cause dementia. The scale of dementia is unprecedented and continue to increase. It is now the leading cause of death in the UK, and without effective interventions, one in three children born in the UK today will one day develop dementia. Alzheimer's Research UK are calling on the government to commit to a significant increase in funding for Alzheimer’s and dementia research, with a view to bringing about effective treatments people so desperately need and help bring about an end to the crisis of dementia in our society. For more information about the campaign please visit https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/orange. Brexit 29 August 2019 The events of the last twenty-four hours are deeply disturbing. First, in seeking to bypass Parliament, Boris Johnson is acting in a profoundly undemocratic way. Secondly, there is no constitutional precedent for such action. The last occasion on which anything remotely similar occurred was on 20 April 1653 when Oliver Cromwell forcibly dissolved parliament using armed forces support and subsequently proclaimed himself Lord Protector. I will not support any action designed to deliver a no-deal Brexit or, for that matter, any deal that does not have parliamentary approval. To do so would be to accept that the government effectively has a free hand to do whatever it wants, which is why I think it is wholly undemocratic. Even though the Queen has agreed to the prorogation – which automatically occurs when a new session begins with a Queen’s speech, although usually this is just a few days – there are still potential ways in which parliament can assert its rights and I will support any such measures. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 16 August 2019 Please click here to read a response from Andrew Murrison, Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Brexit 14 August 2019 I do not believe that a No Deal Brexit would be in the best interests of the people of Knowsley. Indeed, it would lead to economic carnage with significant job losses in manufacturing, particularly in the automotive industry. I will not, under any circumstances, vote for a No Deal Brexit. Nor do I believe that Boris Johnson will be able to negotiate a deal with the EU that would guarantee the workplace rights, environmental protections, food supply and security co-operation we already enjoy as members of the EU. As a former Northern Ireland Minister, I will not support any deal that would imperil the Good Friday Agreement. In addition, I will vigorously resist any attempt by the Tory government to bypass parliament in order to facilitate a No Deal Brexit. State Pension Age for Women 8 August 2019 Please click here to read a response from Amber Rudd, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, regarding changes to women's State Pension age. 'Give a Day to Policing' 7 August 2019 I will be taking part in the 'Give a Day to Policing' scheme this month. The scheme gives MP's the opportunity to spend a day with their local police force to see the work they do and challenges they face. For more information please click here. Environment Bill 30 April 2019 Please click here to read the response from Dr Therese Coffey, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Environment, regarding the Environment Bill. Police Commissioner launches search for new Youth Ambassadors 22 July 2019 Merseyside's Police Commissioner is looking for 10 enthusiastic, skilled young people to volunteer to support, challenge and inform the work of her office and the wider criminal justice system. The role will last for 12 months and is open to those aged between 16 and 24, who live, work or study in Merseyside. Click here to find out more. ‘Has welfare became unfair?- the impact of changes on disabled people' 19 July 2019 I recently attended the launch of a report entitled ‘Has welfare became unfair?- the impact of changes on disabled people'. The report was funded by the Three Guinea’s Trust and commissioned by the Disability Benefit Consortium, which consists of 80 charities calling for more support for disabled people. As part of their investigations, it was discovered that disabled people have lost, on average, payments of around £1,200 each year because of changes to the system. People without a disability lost, on average, £300. For more information, please visit www.bit.ly/DBC_report. Winston Churchill Memorial Trust - Churchill Fellowships 17 July 2019 The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust (WCMT) runs the Churchill Fellowships, a unique programme of overseas research grants. These support UK citizens from all parts of society to travel the world in search of innovative solutions for today’s most pressing problems. Anyone can apply, regardless of age, qualifications or background. Fellows come from all parts of UK society and all walks of life. The only threshold is that you must be a UK resident citizen aged 18 or over. The only criteria are the power of your ideas and the potential of your commitment to make a difference when you come home. WCMT are open for applications in 2019 from 16 May to 17 September at 5pm. This is for travels in 2020 and beyond. For more information, click here. Gender Recognition Act 2004 9 July 2019 Please click here to read a response from Penny Mordaunt, Minister for Women and Equalities, regarding the Gender Recognition Act 2004. Justice for Windrush Petition 4 July 2019 I have signed Dawn Butler's petition calling on the Prime Minister to resolve all outstanding Windrush cases before leaving office. Anyone wishing to view and sign the petition can do so here. Over-75 TV licence concession 2 July 2019 Please click here to read a response from Rt Hon Jeremy Wright MP, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport about the BBC's recent decision to link the TV licence concession for over-75s to Pension Credit. Renewable Electricity Subsidies 25 June 2019 Please click here to read a response from Chris Skidmore, Minister of State for Universities, Science, Research and Innovation, regarding renewable electricity subsidies for biomass electricity generation. A New Housing Regulator after Grenfell 24 June 2019 Please click here to read the response from Kit Malthouse MP, Minister of State for Housing, about concerns for building safety after the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. Disability Employment 20 June 2019 I am supporting Scope's #WorkWithMe campaign, which encourages businesses to create more inclusive workplaces for disabled people. A number of barriers prevent disabled people from getting into, staying in and progressing in work, from poor attitudes to inflexible working practices. Disabled people are twice as likely to be unemployed when compared to non-disabled people. This needs to change. For more information please visit www.workwithme.support. Carers Week 2019 14 June 2019 I recently attended an event in Parliament to celebrate the valuable contribution carers make locally as part of Carers Week 2019. The seven charities driving Carers Week 2019 are calling on individuals, organisations and services throughout the country to improve the lives of carers by getting them connected to practical and financial support. They are also calling for a step change in the way society supports those caring unpaid for family and friends. Thousands of events are taking place across the country this week, and thousands of people have already pledged their support for carers online. To find out more about events or for further information about caring please visit www.carersweek.org. Bowel Cancer UK 'Time to Test' Campaign 31 May 2019 I am supporting Bowel Cancer UK's 'Time to Test' Campaign, which calls on the goverment to implement a national system of testing all bowel cancer patients at the time of their diagnosis for Lynch Syndrome. It is estimated that 200,000 people have Lynch Syndrome, which is a genetic condition that dramatically increases the risk of developing bowel cancer by up to 80%. Unfortunately, only 5% of people are aware they have Lynch Syndrome because they have not been tested. For more information please click here. Universal Credit Scam 31 May 2019 Healthwatch Knowsley have recently made me aware of a scam being undertaken locally in places such as Kirkby and Prescot. It is being undertaken by people claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions who are calling unannounced at people's homes, and sometimes just approaching people on the street and offering a low cost government loan. The scammers are registering the victims for Universal Credit using the victims bank details, which they change to their own bank account once the claim is up and running, ensuring they receive the victims UC payments. Residents are advised to never give money or share personal information with anyone contacing you unannounced, and are advised that low cost government loans do not exist. For free advice and support, residents are advised to contact Citizens Advice Knowsley on 0300 330 9008. Residents can also report fraudulent activites to Action Fraud or Merseyside Police on 101. End Child Poverty 29 May 2019 I recently attended an End Child Poverty event in parliament. End Child Poverty are campaigning for political parties to create child poverty reduction strategies that will release those children in the UK growing up trapped in poverty. For more information please visit www.endchildpoverty.org.uk. Mental Health Blog 29 May 2019 I have recently been made aware of a blog created by a young Knowsley resident, in which uses her own experiences to raise awareness of mental health issues, in particular the impact of social media on the mental health of young people. I have long campaigned about the media portrayal of the so-called 'perfect' body shape, and how this can negatively contribute to people's perception of themselves. I would encourage anyone interested to visit the blog by clicking here. Access to Cystic Fibrosis Medication 20 May 2019 I recently signed a cross-party letter to the Prime Minister, marking a year since the Prime Minister called for a "speedy resolution" to access cystic fibrosis medication. For more information please click here. Diabetes UK 'It's Missing' Campaign 20 May 2019 I recently attended the launch of Diabetes UK's 'It's Missing' campaign, which calls for new national standards for diabetic emotional and mental health support, and to increase support available locally to people living with diabetes. Recently published research from the charity revealed that the relentless nature of diabetes can impact people's emotional wellbeing and mental health, ranging from day to day frustation and low mood, to specific psychological and mental health difficulties, such as clinical depression and anxiety. The findings, published in the report "Too Often Missing: Making Emotional and Psychological Support Routine in Diabetes Care", show that diabetes is much more than a physical condition. For more information please click here. Letters sent to claimants by the Department for Work & Pensions 7 May 2019 Please click here to read the response from Rt Hon Amber Rudd MP, Secretary of State for the Department for Work & Pensions about letters - form ESA 65B - sent to claimants by the DWP. Environment Bill 30 April 2019 Please click here to read the response from Dr Therese Coffey, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Environment, regarding the Environment Bill. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 29 April 2019 Please click here to read the response from the Rt Hon Mark Field MP, Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, regarding Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. End DSS Discrimination 26 April 2019 I recently attended an event in parliament, hosted by Shelter, calling for an end to DSS discrimination. DSS discrimination is the practice of preventing benefit claimants from applying to rent a private property. A recent YouGov survey found that almost a third of people receiving housing benefit said they had been unable to rent a home due to a 'No DSS' policy in the last five years. This equates to hundreds and thousands of private tenants nationally. Under the Equality Act 2010, it is unlawful to indirectly discriminate based on things like gender, disability or race. 'No DSS' adverts and other exclusionary practices can breach the act via indirect discrimination, as they disproportionately harm women and disabled people, who are more likely to receive housing benefit. For more information, please click here. Further Brexit Indicative Votes in the House of Commons 2 April 2019 Below I have listed the four amendments that were selected by the Speaker for division last night. Next to each amendment is the result of the division and how I voted (Yes or No): (c) Customs Union – Ayes: 273 Noes: 276 (Yes) (d) Common Market 2.0 – Ayes: 261 Noes: 282 (Yes) (e) Confirmatory public vote – Ayes:280 Noes: 292 (Yes) (g) Parliamentary supremacy – Ayes: 191 Noes: 292 (No) Minimum income requirement for sponsoring a non-EEA national partner 2 April 2019 Please click here to read the response from the Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP, Minister of State for Immigration at the Home Office, about the minimum income requirement for sponsoring a non-European Economic Area (non-EEA) national partner to come to or remain in the UK under family Immigration Rules. United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union vote 29 March 2019 Today, I voted against the Prime Minister's Withdrawal Agreement in the House of Commons. MPs voted to reject the Withdrawal Agreement, part of the Prime Minister's EU deal, by 344 to 286. 'Stop Christophobia' campaign 29 March 2019 Please click here to read the response from Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon, Minister of State for the Commonwealth and the UN. Brexit Indicative Votes in the House of Commons 28 March 2019 Last night, there were a series of indicative votes in the House of Commons. Indicative votes are non-binding resolutions intended to test the will of the House of Commons. In this instance, they were used to try to find consensus on various proposals relating to Brexit, following the rejection of the Government’s draft deal with the EU (first in January by 230 votes and, again in March by 149 votes). Below, I have listed the eight amendments that were selected by the Speaker for division. Next to each amendment, is the result of the division and how I voted (Yes or No): (b) No deal - Ayes:160 Noes:400 (No) (d) Common market 2.0 - Ayes:188 Noes:283 (Yes) (h) EFTA and EEA - Ayes:65 Noes:377 (No) (j) Customs Union - Ayes:264 Noes:272 (Yes) (k) Labour’s alternative plan - Ayes:237 Noes:307 (Yes) (l) Revocation to avoid no deal - Ayes:184 Noes:293 (Yes) (m) Confirmatory public vote - Ayes:268 Noes:295 (Yes) (o) Contingent preferential arrangements - Ayes:139 Noes:422 (No) You can read more about each amendment on the Order Paper and see my voting record here in Hansard. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 22 March 2019 On 20 March, I attended a special event hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Ovarian Cancer and became a ‘teal hero’. Too many women die of ovarian cancer. We all have to act to ensure that more women know the symptoms to look out for, are diagnosed sooner and get the treatment they need. That’s why I was delighted to take part in this year’s Teal Hero event to support women with ovarian cancer and their families. Teal is the colour of ovarian cancer awareness, which is alarmingly low in the UK. Data from Target Ovarian Cancer, which provides the secretariat for the APPG, shows just one in five women can name bloating as one of the key symptoms of the disease. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are: - Persistent bloating- not bloating that comes and goes - Feeling full or loss of appetite - Tummy pain - Needing to wee more often or more urgently Ovarian cancer can be devastating. Every year 7,300 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the UK, and 4,100 women die from the disease. Target Ovarian Cancer works to raise the profile of ovarian cancer, spread the word about the symptoms, and train GPs in early diagnosis. Visit targetovariancancer.org.uk to find out more. Motions relating to the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union. 19 March 2019 On Tuesday 12 March, the House of Commons voted to again reject the Government's negotiated withdrawal agreement in a second 'meaningful vote'. No amendments to the motion were selected by the Speaker and it was defeated in division by 391 to 242. I voted against the Government’s deal. On Wednesday 13 March, the House of Commons voted to reject leaving the UK without a deal by 321 to 278. The motion, tabled by the Prime Minister, stated [that this House] declines to approve leaving the European Union without a Withdrawal Agreement and a Framework for the Future Relationship on 29 March 2019; and notes that leaving without a deal remains the default in UK and EU law unless this House and the EU ratify an agreement." This motion rejected leaving without a deal on March 29 2019. The Speaker selected two amendments to the motion. Amendment (a) altered the motion to reject the UK leaving the EU, at any point, without a deal. This amendment passed by 312 to 308. Amendment (f), would have called for an extension to enable more time for a managed no-deal exit. This amendment was defeated by 164 to 374. The motion as amended was put to a vote and approved 321 to 278. On Thursday 14 March the House of Commons debated a motion on extending the Article 50 period. Alongside Labour colleagues, I abstained on the division for a second referendum. The official People’s Vote campaign argued that the timing was not yet right and urged MPs not to support the amendment. The Prime Minister’s motion to extend the Article 50 period stated [that this House]: (1) notes the resolutions of the House of 12 and 13 March, and accordingly agrees that the Government will seek to agree with the European Union an extension of the period specified in Article 50(3); (2) agrees that, if the House has passed a resolution approving the negotiated withdrawal agreement and the framework for the future relationship for the purposes of section 13(1)(b) of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 by 20 March 2019, then the Government will seek to agree with the European Union a one-off extension of the period specified in Article 50(3) for a period ending on 30 June 2019 for the purpose of passing the necessary EU exit legislation; and (3) notes that, if the House has not passed a resolution approving the negotiated withdrawal agreement and the framework for the future relationship for the purposes of section 13(1)(b) of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 by 20 March 2019, then it is highly likely that the European Council at its meeting the following day would require a clear purpose for any extension, not least to determine its length, and that any extension beyond 30 June 2019 would require the United Kingdom to hold European Parliament elections in May 2019. This motion was approved by 412 to 202. I voted for this motion. My voting record for divisions relating to the European Union Withdrawal can be found here. Accident & Emergency (A&E) NHS waiting times. 7 March 2019 Please click here to read a response from Stephen Hammond MP, Minister of State for Health about A&E NHS waiting times. Over-75 TV licence concessions 1 March 2019 Please click here to read the response from Margot James MP, Minister for Digital and the Creative Industries regarding the over-75 TV licence concession. Northern Health Science Alliance: Tackling Health Inequalities 21 February 2019 The Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) is a partnership of eight leading universities, eight leading NHS Hospital Trusts and the four Academic Health Science Networks of the North of England, established to improve the health and wealth of the region by building on an internationally recognised life science and healthcare cluster. Health for Wealth: Building a Healthier Northern Powerhouse for UK Productivity was commissioned by the NHSA to look at the relationship between the North’s poorer health and its poorer productivity. You can read a copy of the report here. The report makes a number of recommendations to central government and Northern Powerhouse local and regional stakeholders. Most notably, the NHSA are asking the government to commit invest proportionally more in health, and research funding, in the North of England. Ambulance Staff Pensions 20 February 2019 Please click here to read a response from Stephen Hammond, Minister of State for Health, regarding the retirement age for ambulance staff. The Environment Bill 15 February 2019 Please click here to a read a response from Therese Coffey, Under Secretary of State for the Environment, regarding the Environment Bill. NSPCC 'Close the Loophole' Campaign 14 February 2019 Please click here to read a response from David Gauke, Secretary of State for Justice, regarding the NSPCC's 'Close the Loophole' campaign, which calls for the definition of 'position of trust' under the Sexual Offences Act 2003 to be extended to cover a range of jobs or voluntary posts, where people aged 18 or over may come into contact with 16 and 17 year olds. Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards System 13 February 2019 Please click here to read a response received from Caroline Dinenage, Minister of State for Care, regarding the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards System. Neonatal Care and Parental Leave 12 February 2019 Please click here to read a response received from Kelly Tolhurst, Minister at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, regarding support for parents of babies receiving neonatal care. World Cancer Day 8 February 2019 I recently attended an event, hosted by Cancer Research UK, to promote World Cancer Day. Every year, 920 people are diagnosed with cancer in Knowsley, and 1 in 2 people in the UK will be diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lifetime. World Cancer Day is an opportunity for people, organisations and countries to work together, raise awareness and take action to beat cancer. For more information, please click here. Mental Health and Housing 7 February 2019 I recently attended a parliamentary event bringing together people living with mental health problems, parliamentarians and representatives from Mind, to discuss mental health and housing. Organised by mental health charity Mind, the event saw the launch of a short film called ‘Beyond Bricks’, in which three people with mental health problems describe the serious impact poor housing can have on our mental health. Around one in four people will experience a mental health problem in any given year, and research by Mind found more than two in five people with mental health problems, living in social housing, have seen their mental health deteriorate as a result of where they live. To view ‘Beyond Bricks’ please click here. For more information about Mind, please click here. Build Sound Minds 5 February 2019 I recently joined young people and mental health experts from leading charity, Action for Children, to support the parliamentary launch of Build Sound Minds – a campaign to help children and teenagers build good mental and emotional wellbeing. A third of 15 to 18-year-olds assessed by Action for Children were found to be suffering from mental health issues. Pupils in need of support have been taking part in the Blues Programme, the first ever UK-wide early help intervention for teenage depression. The campaign aims to improve children and teenagers’ mental health by providing families with accessible information, tools and tips. For more information click here. NHS Waiting Lists 1 February 2019 A number of constituents have contacted me about NHS waiting lists. I raised my constituents' concerns with the Department for Health & Social Care. Please click here to read the response from Stephen Hammond, Minister of State for Health. Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill 2017-19 29 January 2019 A number of constituents have contacted me about the Immigration Bill. You will know by now that I voted against the Immigration Bill at Second Reading. Although we were defeated, there will be opportunities to make amendments at Committee Stage. If the Government does not make suitable changes, I’ll vote against it again at Third Reading. Royal College of Nursing - 'Fund Our Future' 25 January 2019 Please click here to view a response from Stephen Hammond, Minister of State for Health, regarding the Royal College of Nursing's 'Fund Our Future' campaign. Electrical Safety in Social Housing 24 January 2019 I recently attended an event in parliament, hosted by the Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR), for the launch of pioneering guidance to improve electrical safety in social housing. The ESR brought together over 25 social housing providers to develop a new Code of Practice for improving electrical safety in social housing, in response to complaints that there was no formal guidance available. The ESR has released a leaflet to alert tenants to the dangers of electricity and the importance of regular electrical inspections, together with a short summary document outlining the key recommendations of the Code of Practice. These documents can be downloaded for free by clicking here. Mental Capacity (Amendment) Bill 24 January 2019 A number of constituents have been in touch with me about this Bill which is currently going through the House of Commons. I have raised my constituents' concerns about the weakening of rights with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, and will post a copy of any substantive response that I receive on my website. Big Energy Saving Week: 21st -27th January 2019 23 January 2019 This week, Citizens Advice has launched its annual campaign ‘Big Energy Saving Week’ to raise awareness of how to save money on energy costs. Visit their website here to see what financial support you are entitled to. Vote of no confidence in Her Majesty's Government 21 January 2019 On 16 January a vote of no confidence in Her Majesty's Government took place in the House of Commons. Despite voting for it, the motion was defeated by 325 to 306. Brexit 16 January 2019 I voted against the EU Withdrawal Agreement in the House of Commons last night. In 2016, I campaigned and voted for a ‘remain’ vote in the referendum. The assertion from some people that a no-deal Brexit is in the UK’s best interests, is not a position I share. There is now mounting and convincing evidence that such an outcome would cause enormous damage to jobs, businesses, security co-operation and chaos between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. My only reservation is in regard to the sequence of events. Now that Parliament is in a strong position to influence the outcome, it is important to work through all of the options before I think we can get to the point at which a further referendum will able to attract the support of enough MPs. You can read more about my position in my speeches, during the Brexit debates in the House of Commons on 5 December 2018,10 January 2019 and 14 January 2019. You can also find out how other MP's voted last night by clicking here. Universal Credit Changes 16 January 2019 Please click here to view a response from Amber Rudd, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, regarding changes to Universal Credit. NHS long-term plan and waiting lists 11 January 2019 A number of constituents have contacted me about the Government's long-term plan for the NHS. I have raised my consituents' concerns with the Secretary of State for Health and will post a copy of any substantive response that I receive on my website. Finance Bill 9 January 2019 I am a co-chair of the Finance Bill and, as such, I am unable to add my name to any amendments, speak or vote on any proceedings. Universal Credit 7 January 2019 A number of constituents have been in touch with me about the roll-out of Universal Credit. On 17 December, I raised my constituents’ concerns with the Secretary of State for the Department for Work & Pensions and will post a copy of any substantive response that I receive on my website. Archive: View press appearances and speeches here: 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 I 2012 I 2013 I 2014 I 2015 I 2016 I 2017 I 2018 View the Parliamentary achive here: 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 To search Hansard for more examples of George speaking in Parliament, please click Here. Early Day Motions:: As well as making speeches and asking questions in Parliament, you can view the Early Day Motions (EDMs) George has signed. EDMs draw attention to specific events or campaigns, and demonstrate parliamentary support for a particular cause or point of view. You can find out more from the House of Commons advice sheet.
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©2007-19 Rt Hon George Howarth MP for Knowsley