Contents

Published – Thursday 24 October 2024

Early Day Motions tabled on Wednesday 23 October 2024

Early Day Motions (EDMs) are motions for which no days have been fixed.

The number of signatories includes all members who have added their names in support of the Early Day Motion (EDM), including the Member in charge of the Motion.

EDMs and added names are also published on the EDM database at www.parliament.uk/edm

[R] Indicates that a relevant interest has been declared.

New EDMs

295Reductions in jobs and services at the BBC

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 7

Rebecca Long Bailey

Grahame Morris

John McDonnell

Kim Johnson

Andy McDonald

Claire Hanna

That this House greatly regrets the announcement of further new cuts to news and current affairs programming, resulting in a net loss of 130 employed posts; notes that, whilst the World Service itself is a valuable international service which needs secured funding, using it to replace domestic UK BBC radio listeners' overnight news risks displacing important domestic news from the cycle for minimal savings; further notes the loss of night shifts in the London newsroom, again impacting domestic news coverage; fears the impact of the BBC’s decision to cut frontline journalistic posts at a time when impartial news and information from our trusted public service broadcaster is vital; recognises that harm arising from these proposals will see a reduction in relevant, creative and accessible content offering audiences choice; further regrets the plan to axe the popular Hard Talk news interview slot; supports the calls from the National Union of Journalists that are urging the Government to commit to restore the direct financing of the vital work of the BBC World Service through the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office budget; and calls on the Government to further ensure that future BBC licence fee settlements provide sufficient revenues to maintain high quality services without frequent rounds of cuts.

296Disarmament Week

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 1

Ayoub Khan

That this House notes the commencement of the United Nations' Disarmament Week, created to promote measures that ensure the prevention and cessation of armed conflict; expresses regret over the staggering human, social, economic, and ecological costs of armed conflict; observes the critical importance of pursuing multilateral disarmament as a means of building a safer, more secure world that will protect humanity from harm; is alarmed by the continued threat and increased proliferation of interstate conflict, which fundamentally undermines the objectives of sustained peace and development; recognises that the goal of complete disarmament is enshrined in international law and should guide the Government's security and foreign policy conduct; calls upon the Government to utilise its diplomatic influence to achieve absolute disarmament; urges the Government to condemn all unjust acts and threats involving the use of nuclear, chemical, biological, cyber and conventional weapons; endorses the UN Secretary General's Agenda for Disarmament, which underscores the pivotal role of disarmament in advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals; welcomes all efforts by the Government to regulate the excessive trade of arms and limit the weaponisation of dual-use technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence; and values the necessity of preserving order and stability within the international system, such that the prosperity of future generations may be assured.

297United Nations Day

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 3

Ayoub Khan

Shockat Adam

Ellie Chowns

That this House commemorates the 79th anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter; values the UN’s role as a vanguard of the international system and a custodian of peace, justice, respect, human rights, tolerance, and solidarity; notes with appreciation the UN's role in addressing complex global issues that transcend national boundaries; welcomes ongoing Government efforts to uphold the legitimacy and efficacy of all United Nations institutions, organisations, bodies, and initiatives; endorses all endeavours to deepen the UK's participation in multilateral initiatives that ensure international peace and security, safeguard human rights, provide humanitarian aid, support sustainable development and climate action, uphold international law, and preserve democratic norms; expresses deep concern at the UN's obstructive bureaucracy and increasingly undemocratic processes, emphasising the need for urgent and extensive reform; fears the implications of escalating costs of operations and the further proliferation of international policy issues, which have placed many UN agencies on the brink of bankruptcy; urges the Government to contribute towards bridging the £4 trillion annual financing gap required to achieve the UN's Sustainable Development Goals by 2030; and hopes for swift action to restructure and adequately fund the United Nations, such that it may continue its vital work in eradicating poverty, war and injustice around the world.

298Grangetown Netball Club’s contribution to sport and the community in Redcar and Cleveland

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 1

Anna Turley

That this House celebrates the outstanding achievements of Grangetown Netball Club, which, since its founding 40 years ago in one of the most deprived areas of Redcar and Cleveland, has grown from strength to strength, reaching the highest level of national netball competition in the Premier League; commends the dedication of volunteer coaches Ria Small, Faye Summerhill, and Jade Stainthorpe, who, while balancing full-time jobs and family responsibilities, have been instrumental in developing players and nurturing talent; recognises the significant impact the club has had on its members, with numerous players from disadvantaged backgrounds progressing to successful careers as doctors, teachers, and business owners; acknowledges the leadership and passion of the club's founder and first team coach, Gel Williams, who has dedicated four decades to promoting sport and community engagement in Grangetown; further pays tribute to the late Margaret Seed for her profound influence on the club’s success; and praises the club for its role in fostering essential life skills and promoting community cohesion which will benefit the young people of Redcar and Cleveland far beyond sport.

29975th anniversary of Tayport Amateur Dramatic and Musical Society

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 1

Wendy Chamberlain

That this House celebrates the 75th anniversary of Tayport Amateur Dramatic and Musical Society (TADMS); recognises that the existing society was founded in 1949 by two local men, Bill Wedderspoon and Harry Clark, but has roots dating back to the 1870s; congratulates TADMS on having staged 117 productions to date and providing the people of Tayport the opportunity to enjoy musical theatre locally; looks forward to more productions; and wishes TADMS all the best for the future.

300Stepping Hill Hospital repairs

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 1

Tom Morrison

That this House recognises that Stepping Hill Hospital in Stockport is older than the NHS and has been treating patients across Stockport since 1905, employing thousands of staff and treating up to half a million patients each year; further recognises the dedication of staff working at Stepping Hill and the additional difficulties that staff and patients experience due to major repairs being required; notes that years of under-investment and the failure of the last Conservative Government to include Stepping Hill Hospital on the list of 40 new hospitals have resulted in a huge increase in the cost of repairs from £89 million in 2021 to more than £134 million this year and that a recent survey found that almost 70 percent of hospitals now require urgent repairs, making it increasingly difficult for services to operate and for hospitals to maintain their buildings to an acceptable standard; welcomes the commitment that a business case is being prepared to address the loss of the Outpatients B building, which was forced to close in November 2023, but is alarmed by the response from the Minister to the hon. Members for Cheadle and Hazel Grove, which did not include confirmation on how repairs would be funded; and also notes the confirmation by the Department of Health and Social Care that funding will depend on the outcome of upcoming spending reviews, but is concerned that further delays to carrying out necessary repairs at Stepping Hill will result in spiralling costs, cancellations and longer waiting lists.

301SEND provision at Kingsbury High

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 1

Dawn Butler

That this House commends the extraordinary education that Kingsbury High school provides for SEND children and young people; expresses concern about young people with special educational needs and disabilities; acknowledges these children have behaviour issues and struggle to socialise; further expresses concern that SEND children struggle with reading and writing, due to dyslexia, and that their concentration levels can be impacted by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; recognises physical disability affects their ability to take part in traditional schooling; urges the Government to ensure all schools receive increased funding to help SEND students get access to the public school system; further acknowledges that around 40% of all home educated children in UK are children with SEND; and calls on the Government to ensure they get the same exposure to education in a safe space adapted to their needs.

302Drug deaths

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 1

Grahame Morris

That this House notes with alarm data released by the Office for National Statistics on 23 October 2024 showing that a record 5,448 deaths related to drug poisoning were registered in England and Wales in 2023; further notes that the highest death rates are again in areas suffering greatest deprivation; recognises that the influx of highly potent synthetic opioids such as Nitazenes risks a rapid rise in drug deaths; and calls on the Government to tackle the crisis by committing to long-term sustainable funding for drug treatment in the autumn budget and future spring spending review, continuing to implement the recommendations of Dame Carol Black’s independent review of drugs, and accelerating the availability of naloxone, the lifesaving antidote to opioid overdose.

303Exiting the European Union

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 6

Jim Allister

Sammy Wilson

Sir Desmond Swayne

Alex Easton

Andrew Rosindell

Rupert Lowe

That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty, praying that the Windsor Framework (Retail Movement Scheme: Plant and Animal Health) (Amendment etc.) Regulations 2024 (S.I., 2024, No. 853), dated 8 August 2024, a copy of which was laid before this House on 9 August 2024, be annulled.

304New coxswains at Porthdinllaen Lifeboat Station

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 4

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Llinos Medi

Ann Davies

That this House congratulates Caryl Parry Thomas and Adam Daniel Lewis for qualifying as coxswains for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution in Porthdinllaen; notes that Caryl holds the distinction of being the first female coxswain in the station’s 160-year history; acknowledges the hard work of both, who completed a simulated search for a casualty, safe passage and anchoring as part of their assessments; highlights that the Porthdinllaen Lifeboat Station is home to a Tamar class all-weather lifeboat, and its crews have been presented with five awards for gallantry; recognises the efforts of the entire team at the station; and thanks them for their invaluable work in patrolling the Llŷn Peninsula.

305Retail movement scheme regulations

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 2

Jim Allister

Sammy Wilson

That this House calls on the Government to withdraw the Windsor Framework (Retail Movement Scheme: Plant and Animal Health) Regulations 2024 (S.I., 2024, No. 853), because they use Northern Ireland’s continued place in the EU Single Market, and subjection to EU law, to tie GB regulatory standards to those of the EU, thereby undermining hard won Brexit freedoms in GB, give effect to Regulation (EU) 2023/1231 through which the EU governs the movement of many goods from one part of the United Kingdom to the other through the imposition of an international border that divides the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland into two, while asserting its right to make laws the Northern Ireland side of the border in 300 areas, all in violation of the UN Declaration on Principles of International Law concerning Friendly Relations and Co-operation among States in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, which censures any action which would dismember or impair, totally or in part, the territorial integrity or political unity of sovereign and independent States, and could be rendered null and void at any time, along with all other Northern Ireland Retail Movement Scheme legislation, not because of a decision of Parliament, but because of a decision of the EU under Article 14 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1231 which would have the effect of removing keys aspects of the Government's UK Internal Market System.

306Kilmarnock FC prize at the 2024 Best Kept War Memorial competition

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 8

Lillian Jones

Elaine Stewart

Kirsteen Sullivan

Douglas McAllister

Katrina Murray

Patricia Ferguson

That this House congratulates Kilmarnock FC on winning the Satellite Memorial with gardens prize at the 2024 Best Kept War Memorial competition; and thanks to Kilmarnock's branch of the British Royal Legion Scotland and club Ambassador Raymond Montgomerie for their contribution.

307Glasgow’s 850th birthday

Tabled: 23/10/24 Signatories: 1

Patricia Ferguson

That this House notes that Glasgow will celebrate the city’s 850th birthday in 2025; recognises that this is a significant milestone for the city which will mark the anniversary of Glasgow becoming a burgh; acknowledges the preparations that are underway to mark this special year and harness the opportunities it provides; welcomes plans to develop a year-long programme of inclusive events and activities across Glasgow to mark this anniversary, delivering memorable moments for all the city’s communities and enhancing Glasgow’s reputation across the country and world; encourages communities, individuals and businesses across the city to take the opportunity to participate in this important year for the city, whether through organising or participating in a community event, helping to deliver a successful programme of events as a Glasgow 850 volunteer, or using the anniversary year to showcase the products and services offered by local businesses; notes that the glasgow850.com website has been launched to provide more information on the celebrations and how people can get involved; and looks forward to an anniversary year that celebrates the city’s rich history and success, particularly in the last fifty years, and inspires a better, sustainable future, for the next fifty years.

Added Names

Below are EDMs tabled in the last two weeks to which names have been added. Only the first 6 names and any new names are included.

225Business relief for pubs

Tabled: 9/10/24 Signatories: 28

Liz Jarvis

Jim Shannon

Ellie Chowns

Edward Morello

John Milne

Manuela Perteghella

That this House recognises the crucial role that pubs play in Eastleigh, as social hubs, cultural landmarks, and significant contributors to the local economy; notes with concern the growing number of nationwide pub closures, with 749 pub businesses entering insolvency in 2023; further notes that the current business rates system places a disproportionate financial burden on pubs compared to other sectors; and believes that reform of the business rates system is urgently needed to ensure the sustainability of pubs in Eastleigh and across the UK.

228Ban on prison officer industrial action

Tabled: 9/10/24 Signatories: 29

Grahame Morris

Mary Kelly Foy

Richard Burgon

Rachael Maskell

John McDonnell

Liz Saville Roberts

That this House notes it has been 30 years since prison officers in the UK were banned from taking industrial action under Section 127 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994; further notes that prison officers in Scotland have had the right to strike enshrined in law since 2015, yet there have been no strikes since then, only improved industrial relations; believes this draconian restriction, especially in the absence of an effective and impartial means of binding resolution of disputes in the course of collective bargaining, renders the UK in breach of its obligations under international laws that it has ratified and by which it is bound, including the European Social Charter and ILO Convention 87 on Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise; further believes this lack of industrial muscle leaves prison officers unfairly and dangerously at the mercy of prison service management and without leverage to challenge Government policy with respect to pay, terms and conditions; expresses solidarity with the POA union, which has campaigned tirelessly over three decades for the return of these basic industrial rights; welcomes the Government’s commitment to repealing anti-trade-union legislation introduced by previous administrations; and calls on the Government to include Section 127 in the legislation to be repealed.

229World Homelessness Day 2024

Tabled: 9/10/24 Signatories: 66

Layla Moran

Calum Miller

Wendy Chamberlain

Anna Sabine

Tom Gordon

Steff Aquarone

That this House marks World Homelessness Day 2024; notes with concern that 3,898 people were found sleeping rough in England in the autumn snapshot 2023; further notes that 11,880 people were served no fault eviction notices in the year ending in March 2024 and one in 200 households were living in emergency temporary housing; expresses regret that the Vagrancy Act 1824, which criminalises rough sleepers, remains in operation despite the House voting to scrap it; further notes that 469 people have been arrested under the Act since the Government committed to scrap it in April 2022; and calls on the Government to urgently scrap the Vagrancy Act and commit to a compassionate approach to rough sleeping.

232UN Special Rapporteur's report on atrocity crimes in Iran

Tabled: 10/10/24 Signatories: 11

Bob Blackman

Ellie Chowns

Jim Shannon

Martin Vickers

Siân Berry

Alex Sobel

That this House welcomes the landmark Atrocity Crimes report by the UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Iran, published by the OHCHR in July 2024, which sheds light on grave human rights violations, including the 1988 massacre of political prisoners; notes that the report states that there is considerable evidence that mass killings, torture and other inhumane acts against members of the People's Mojahedin Organisation of Iran were conducted with genocidal intent; commends Professor Javaid Rehman for his six years of service as the Special Rapporteur; condemns the Iranian regime's subsequent smear campaign against Professor Rehman, including false and malicious allegations aimed at discrediting his integrity and impartiality; recognises that these attacks stem from his unwavering commitment to fulfilling his mandate and his refusal to be intimidated by the Iranian government; believes that the Special Rapporteur’s report opens a pathway to justice and an end to impunity in Iran; looks forward to working with Professor Rehman's successor, Dr. Mai Sato, in pursuing the quest for accountability; supports the No to Executions campaign; and calls on the Government to support initiatives aimed at holding the Iranian regime accountable for its human rights violations, including the 1988 massacre.

233Hospice funding

Tabled: 10/10/24 Signatories: 38

Mr Lee Dillon

Helen Morgan

Sarah Gibson

Iqbal Mohamed

Bob Blackman

Luke Taylor

That this House recognises the importance of hospices in the UK, which care for over 300,000 people each year; is deeply concerned about the current funding crisis facing hospices, due to rising costs over several years; acknowledges that the commissioning of hospice services by integrated care boards is currently not fit for purpose, putting at risk the value they provide to individuals and the wider health system; notes that Government funding, which accounts for one-third of hospice income, has not kept pace with inflation; understands that continued financial pressure could lead to cuts in services and staff redundancies; and urges the Government to review the current funding model for hospices.

236World Mental Health Day 2024

Tabled: 10/10/24 Signatories: 43

Dr Danny Chambers

Helen Morgan

Sarah Gibson

Iqbal Mohamed

Bob Blackman

Dr Beccy Cooper

That this House marks World Mental Health Day, which takes place each year on 10 October, and which raises awareness of mental health issues and promotes positive mental wellbeing globally; notes that the theme for 2024 is workplace mental health; expresses concern that, in 2024, Britain is facing increasing waiting lists for mental health diagnoses for both children and adults; emphasises the importance of talk-therapies, talking openly about mental health to allow individuals to express how they feel and access the support they need; and encourages anyone struggling with mental health issues to reach out for support.

240Veterans and the Winter Fuel Payment

Tabled: 14/10/24 Signatories: 32

Helen Maguire

Mike Martin

Richard Foord

Jim Shannon

Steff Aquarone

Wendy Chamberlain

That this House expresses its concern that changes to Winter Fuel Payment eligibility rules will adversely impact veterans; notes that these changes have been introduced with little notice as the winter months approach, and have been made without a full impact assessment; further notes with concern that this approach fails to take into account those with high energy needs because of illness or disability, those who live in energy inefficient homes, and those on modest incomes just above the entitlement threshold for Pension Credit; and calls on the Government to protect veterans from losing this crucial support by reversing the cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment.

243Death of Rt hon. Alex Salmond, former First Minister of Scotland

Tabled: 14/10/24 Signatories: 13

Stephen Flynn

Jim Shannon

Mohammad Yasin

Andrew George

Ayoub Khan

Brendan O'Hara

That this House expresses its profound sorrow at the death of former First Minister of Scotland, Rt hon. Alex Salmond; sends its sympathy and condolences to his family, friends and legions of followers; recognises his immense contribution to Scottish public life and Scotland's modern political story; and deeply appreciates his service over many decades as an MP, an MSP and as First Minister to the people of Scotland and the cause of Scottish independence.

244Organ donors and the Everyone Everyday Evermore sculpture

Tabled: 14/10/24 Signatories: 5

Brian Leishman

Jim Shannon

Jon Trickett

Chris Law

John McDonnell

That this House pays tribute to the creators and supporters of the Everyone Everyday Evermore sculpture unveiled at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, an inspirational installation which honours the life-saving contributions of organ and tissue donors; acknowledges the critical role that organ donors play in saving lives; commends the courage and selflessness of all those who, in moments of great difficulty, make the decision to give others a second chance at life and good health; and calls on the Government to continue to support organ donation initiatives and promote the importance of having open conversations with loved ones about donation preferences.

246Celebrating the life of Holocaust survivor Lily Ebert MBE BEM

Tabled: 14/10/24 Signatories: 15

Jim Shannon

Tristan Osborne

Mr Gregory Campbell

Adam Jogee

Christine Jardine

Andrew George

That this House notes with deep sadness the passing of Holocaust survivor Lily Ebert MBE BEM at the age of 100; acknowledges her extraordinary life of resilience, courage, and dedication to Holocaust education and remembrance; recognises that with the passing of each Holocaust survivor, it feels as though another thread of connection to those silenced voices is lost, and that while books, recordings, and historical research continue to preserve these stories, the irreplaceable value of personal interaction and living memory diminishes; further notes that the death of a survivor is a solemn reminder that we are approaching the end of an era in which direct witnesses to the atrocities of the Holocaust still walk among us; expresses concern that as the Holocaust transitions from a living memory to a purely historical event, it risks becoming further removed from our collective consciousness, which is deeply unsettling; and calls on the Government and all educational institutions to redouble efforts to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust are never forgotten, and that future generations remain vigilant against intolerance, hate, and genocide in all its forms, continuing the vital legacy left by survivors like Lily Ebert.

249World Food Day

Tabled: 14/10/24 Signatories: 26

Anna Sabine

Jim Shannon

Steff Aquarone

Steve Darling

Liz Jarvis

Jamie Stone

That this House marks World Food Day, a UN designated-day celebrated on 16 October every year; notes the approximately 733 million people facing hunger in the world; further notes that everyone should have the right to adequate food; acknowledges the role of farmers and rural communities in producing food to feed populations around the world; and recognises the pivotal role of farmers in securing the future of resilient food systems, climate mitigation, nature restoration and supporting a peaceful, resilient and inclusive livelihood for all.

251Private security and community policing

Tabled: 14/10/24 Signatories: 20

Sarah Olney

Jim Shannon

Jess Brown-Fuller

Calum Miller

Christine Jardine

Alex Brewer

That this House recognises the decimation of community police forces across the UK; highlights that since 2020 the private security industry has grown by 73,000 people; further highlights security guards are not a substitute for an effective police force; urges the Government to assess the damage shoplifting and spending on private security is doing to our high streets; and requests that the Home Office works with police forces to restore community policing across the UK.

254Betty Rhodick, community activist and founder of Lochgilphead Armed Forces Day

Tabled: 15/10/24 Signatories: 5

Brendan O'Hara

Jim Shannon

Graham Leadbitter

Stephen Gethins

Dave Doogan

That this House notes with great sadness the death of Betty Rhodick of Lochgilphead, a community volunteer and fundraiser, whose activities across more than four decades, impacted just about everyone in the Mid-Argyll area; is reminded that although originally from Huntly in Aberdeenshire, following her marriage to Geordie, a member of the Queen’s Guard in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, Betty settled in the village Kilmichael and immediately became an active member of Dunadd Community Council and the Women’s Rural Institute; acknowledges that Betty’s service to her community saw her volunteer for the local Health and Social Care service Integrated Joint Board, as well as the board of the Argyll Community Housing Association, where she championed many causes including giving evidence to the Scottish Parliament on behalf of travelling people in Argyll; recalls that through her work with the Mid Argyll hospital, the Richmond Fellowship and Enable Scotland, she supported and cared for people with learning disabilities living in her community; acknowledges however that Betty Rhodick will be best remembered for instigating and organising, along with husband Geordie and their family, the annual Lochgilphead Armed Forces Day, an event which has grown over the years to become one of the major events in Argyll and Bute; is delighted to know that shortly before she died, Betty’s contribution to her community was recognised when she was presented with the Argyll and Bute Council Provost’s Award by Provost Dougie Philand; and sends it deepest condolences to Geordie and the family.

257Infant head measurements

Tabled: 15/10/24 Signatories: 17

Alex Brewer

Jim Shannon

Calum Miller [R]

Liz Jarvis

Shockat Adam

Helen Maguire

That this House believes in the urgent need for regularly measuring each infant's head circumference to effectively identify early signs of hydrocephalus, also known as water on the brain; notes that hydrocephalus is the most common reason for brain surgery in children, with an estimated 1 in 770 babies diagnosed annually; emphasises that early diagnosis is critical for treatments to be successful, and a rapidly increasing head circumference, specifically an increase of 2 or more centile lines on a growth chart, serves as a key indicator of the condition; highlights that the UK conducts fewer head circumference checks than many other developed countries; and recognises that infants are already checked by health workers on a regular basis and that these routine checks could be used to increase the frequency of head measurements in order to save lives.

258Socio-economic Duty

Tabled: 15/10/24 Signatories: 18

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

Richard Burgon

Nadia Whittome

Kate Osborne

That this House recognises the importance of equality in our society and the urgent need to commence the Socio-economic Duty (SED) as outlined in Section 1 of the Equality Act 2010; calls on the Government to establish a commission for the successful delivery, implementation and roll out of the SED; acknowledges that this commission should include trade unions, campaign organisations and community groups; believes a crucial role for the commission would be to secure the promotion and participation of ‘Equalities’ trade union representatives within the trade union and bargaining structures across our economy; encourages public participation and meaningful engagement with those closest to the issues as a key principle for SED implementation; establishes the appropriate funding of the Equality and Human Rights Commission to provide a regulatory framework for the SED and develop strong, clear and supportive training of policymakers throughout society to understand and utilise the SED.

26015th anniversary of the repair café movement

Tabled: 16/10/24 Signatories: 17

Sarah Dyke

Ellie Chowns

Pippa Heylings

Siân Berry

Vikki Slade

Helen Maguire

That this House celebrates the 15th anniversary of the repair café movement on 19 October; values the work done by the 3000 repair cafés globally, including the Castle Cary repair café that has repaired over 170 domestic items since its launch in July 2023, saving half a tonne of potential waste from landfill; recognises the roles repair cafés have in cutting CO2 emissions and creating a circular economy; is concerned that the UK is the second highest producer of electronic waste per capita in the world; and believes that the UK Government should do more to encourage repair and reuse schemes.

261Online scams and funeral services

Tabled: 16/10/24 Signatories: 6

Sorcha Eastwood

Mary Kelly Foy

Jim Shannon

Jon Trickett

Chris Law

Steve Witherden

That this House notes with concern the increasing number of online scams exploiting vulnerable families during bereavement, including fraudulent links and fake funeral notices; further notes the recent police warnings regarding scammers profiting from tragic events, as evidenced by the exploitation of Southport stabbing victim's funeral and scams targeting funeral homes in Northern Ireland; recognises the emotional and financial damage caused by such deceptive practices; and calls on the Government to work with law enforcement, online platforms, and the funeral sector to introduce stricter measures to detect, prevent, and shut down these malicious online scams and to ensure greater public awareness on how to identify fraudulent activity.

262Arbroath-born partisan Carlo Carini

Tabled: 16/10/24 Signatories: 7

Stephen Gethins

Mary Kelly Foy

Graham Leadbitter

Jim Shannon

Jon Trickett

Chris Law

That this House remembers the life of Carlo Carini, Arbroath-born Italian partisan, on the anniversary of his murder by German Occupation forces in Piacenza, Italy, in October 1944; notes Carlo's significant contribution to Italy's liberation, his heroism against fascism which was recognised by the Commander of Allied Forces in Italy, Brigadier-General Alexander, and by the Italian Government who posthumously awarded Carlo the Silver Medal of Italy; highlights that Carlo and his family were very much part of the community in Arbroath; further highlights that Carlo was a skilled footballer in Arbroath and that he also played professionally in Italy and established a youth football competition between teams in Arbroath and Piacenza; commends the work of local group Friends of Carlo Carini, including those in Italy and others, in recognising and remembering the importance of Carlo's life and the cause for which he fought; and gives thanks for the group's efforts to inspire a new generation thanks to Carlo's example.

263Pobol y Cwm 50th anniversary

Tabled: 16/10/24 Signatories: 10

Ann Davies

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

Llinos Medi

Mary Kelly Foy

Jim Shannon

That this House recognises the Welsh language soap opera Pobol y Cwm for reaching its 50th anniversary; highlights that the first episode was transmitted on 16 October 1974 and aired on the BBC before transferring to S4C after the channel's launch in 1982; notes that the show is the BBC’s longest-running television soap opera, and remains one of S4C’s most watched programmes; further notes that the programme was created by the producer John Hefin and the playwright Gwenlyn Parry, and depicts the lives of the inhabitants of the fictional Carmarthenshire village of Cwmderi; and commends the cast and crew for showcasing the very best of Welsh drama, promoting the Welsh language, and holding a mirror up to Welsh society for 50 years.

264Low level letter boxes and back injuries

Tabled: 16/10/24 Signatories: 17

Mike Amesbury

Mary Kelly Foy

Shockat Adam

Chris Webb

Anna Sabine

Helen Maguire

That this House notes that low level letter boxes cause back injuries to postmen and women each year, force postal staff to stoop to ground level whilst carrying mail items and thus can cause back strain; further notes that low level letter boxes also present an increased risk of dog bites; also notes that the Communications Workers Union are calling for a standardised letter box height and safe design well above ground level and that they have been campaigning to outlaw low level letterboxes for many years, first raising the issue back in 1958; also notes that the EU standard requirement is for letterboxes to be at a height accessible to postal workers, significantly reducing possible injuries such as dog bites, fingers being trapped, or back strain caused when bending excessively or repeatedly to reach ground level boxes; also notes that this has not been enshrined into UK building standards and that low level letter boxes have been outlawed in many European countries, such as the Republic of Ireland in 2001; also notes that 154,000 days were lost in sick leave from Royal Mail in 2022 due to back pain, costing the Royal Mail £16 million, and that injury could be minimised by legislation to cover the manufacture of all new and replacement doors to have standardised letter box height and safe design well above ground level; and calls on government to promote the EU standard.

265Establishment of the Women’s Caucus in Westminster

Tabled: 17/10/24 Signatories: 39

Kirsty Blackman

Ellie Chowns

Dame Siobhain McDonagh

Christine Jardine

Liz Saville Roberts

Rachel Blake

That this House agrees to establish a Women’s Caucus in the UK Parliament, which is the women Members of Parliament working together to advance issues that disproportionately affect women; notes that there are women’s caucuses in the devolved nations of Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland; further notes that now is the time to establish a Women’s Caucus which focuses on issues affecting women across the UK and within Parliament, and aims to find cross party solutions to these problems; and notes that this Parliament has the biggest cohort of women MPs in its history and marks a significant moment to drive forward gender equality not just within the UK Parliament but across the entire country.

268Pie and Mash

Tabled: 21/10/24 Signatories: 5

Mr Richard Holden

Jim Shannon

Ayoub Khan

Lauren Edwards

Andrew Rosindell

That this House recognises the need to protect Cockney heritage, including Pie and Mash, a staple dish of Cockneys for nearly 200 years; notes that the Cockney diaspora have moved out of East London to at least 42 constituencies across parts of the East and South East; and supports the over 100 Pie and Mash shops, cafes and restaurants that still offer this dish as an important part of our Great British culture.

273Rural Crime Action Week 2024

Tabled: 21/10/24 Signatories: 16

Helen Morgan

Steff Aquarone

Christine Jardine

Wendy Chamberlain

Dr Roz Savage

Claire Young

That this House recognises Rural Crime Action Week which runs between 21 and 25 October 2024 to highlight the impact of rural crime on communities; is concerned by the NFU's 2024 Rural Crime Report which states that the cost of rural crime increased by 4.3% across the UK in 2023; further notes that the highest regional cost of crime in 2023 was in the Midlands at £11.7 billion; acknowledges that Shropshire has been rated the third worst affected county for rural crime for two consecutive years; recognises that the impacts of rural crime are felt by business and across communities from large-scale fly-tipping to theft of farm machinery, tools and livestock; and calls on the Government to recognise the serious and organised nature of rural crime and urgently to take steps to tackle crime and disorder in the countryside.

277FareShare’s 30th anniversary

Tabled: 21/10/24 Signatories: 14

Wera Hobhouse

Christine Jardine

Wendy Chamberlain

Claire Young

Ian Sollom

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates FareShare, the UK’s leading food redistribution charity, on its 30th anniversary; applauds FareShare for redistributing the equivalent of 135 million meals last year, equating to four meals per second, to over 8,000 frontline charities and community groups in almost every constituency across the UK; recognises the charity’s significant social return on investment, delivering £13 in savings for every £1 spent through benefits to individuals and the state; and urges the Government to work with the charitable food redistribution sector to implement effective measures that further reduce food waste, increase surplus food redistribution to those in need, and strengthen communities throughout the United Kingdom, as the need for such collaboration is more pressing than ever.

278Zoe’s Place and funding for children’s hospices

Tabled: 21/10/24 Signatories: 29

Ian Byrne

John McDonnell

Richard Burgon

Kim Johnson

Rebecca Long Bailey

Zarah Sultana

That this House notes its deep concern at the announcement that children’s hospice Zoe’s Place in Liverpool is at risk of imminent closure; applauds the phenomenal response to this shocking news in the city and thanks the huge charitable drive to raise £5 million by 9 November to save Zoe’s Place; notes its alarm that children’s hospices across the country are facing huge funding challenges; therefore calls on the Government to urgently put funding into children’s hospices, allowing Zoe’s Place and children’s hospices across the country to continue to care for seriously ill children and their families into the future; specifically calls on the Government to maintain and increase the £25 million Children’s Hospice Grant into the future and return it to being a centrally-distributed funding stream; and more broadly calls on the Government to review the funding of children’s hospices to ensure all seriously ill children and their families receive high quality care when and where they need it.

279Oscar Mayer strikes

Tabled: 21/10/24 Signatories: 24

Steve Witherden

Andrew Ranger

John McDonnell

Jeremy Corbyn

Richard Burgon

Jon Trickett

That this House acknowledges the strike by hundreds of Oscar Mayer workers in Wrexham, protesting the company’s intention to alter contracts by removing fully paid breaks, eliminating enhanced payments, and ending days off in lieu for working bank holidays, changes which could cost workers up to £3,000 annually, whilst under the threat of fire and rehire tactics; commends the efforts of Unite the Union in advocating for its members and launching a multi-million-pound legal case regarding potential breaches of the Employment Agencies Act 1973; and urges the Government to expedite the implementation of promised legislation banning fire and rehire practices.

282Prevention of cyber-crime

Tabled: 21/10/24 Signatories: 9

Christine Jardine

Wendy Chamberlain

Dr Roz Savage

Ian Sollom

Jim Shannon

Ayoub Khan

That this House acknowledges the growth of cybercrime with the advent of new technologies; recognises the need for the UK Parliament to ensure that legislation keeps pace with evolving cyber threats, including the Computer Misuse Act 1990; notes the restrictions the Act places on the work of UK cyber security professionals by prohibiting all unauthorised access to computer systems, regardless of intent or motive; believes this inadvertently criminalises essential research into cyber threats; believes that modernising the Act could enhance the UK's national security, strengthen the criminal justice system, and unlock significant benefits to the UK economy with new opportunities in the cyber security industry; and calls on the Government to introduce an amendment to the Computer Misuse Act 1990 to better protect the public from emerging threats.

283Frozen pensions for UK citizens overseas

Tabled: 21/10/24 Signatories: 13

Christine Jardine

Dr Roz Savage

Ian Sollom

Jim Shannon

Claire Hanna

Ayoub Khan

That this House notes the so-called frozen pensions policy; further notes this sees British overseas state pensioners living in certain countries denied access to index-linked uprating of the UK state pension; believes the level of the UK state pension paid should not be dependent on the pensioner’s country of residence in later life; acknowledges the scale of the injustice which sees 453,000 British state pensioners impacted by the policy, many of whom reside in Commonwealth countries such as Canada and Australia; notes that the cost of indexing all overseas state pensions without a retrospective uprating is estimated at approximately £50 million in the first year; calls on the Government to index all overseas state pensions equally on a going-forward basis; and further calls on the Prime Minister to meet with affected pensioner and World War Two veteran Anne Puckridge, who is planning to travel from Canada to the UK this December, requesting a meeting on behalf of all those impacted by the policy.

284Impact of austerity on the Fire and Rescue Service

Tabled: 21/10/24 Signatories: 10

Adam Dance

Dr Roz Savage

Jim Shannon

Claire Young

Tom Morrison

Andrew George

That this House expresses deep concern over the detrimental effects of austerity on the UK’s fire and rescue services, particularly in rural areas like Yeovil, where funding, training, and recruitment have been significantly impacted; acknowledges that in recent years, one in five firefighter jobs has been lost and central government funding to fire services has been slashed by 30% resulting in fire services becoming increasingly reliant on the contributions of on-call officers who juggle other occupations; notes that due to severe staff shortages, around 4,000 firefighters are now working both full-time and part-time contracts, often within the same brigade or across different services; commends the tireless work of firefighters in engaging with their communities, supporting the fire safety of homes and businesses, and responding to emergencies under increasingly difficult conditions; further acknowledges the loss of essential control staff, fire engines, pumps, and other critical equipment due to funding cuts, which have hampered the ability of firefighters to carry out their vital roles effectively; recognises the immense pressure firefighters face in responding to the growing frequency of storms, flooding, and wildfires, challenges exacerbated by the climate emergency; underscores the essential role of a well-funded fire service in tackling these climate-related disasters, which are expected to become even more frequent; and calls on the Government to urgently provide adequate funding for fire services to rebuild staffing levels, equipment, and resources.

285South West in Bloom awards

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 2

Steve Darling

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates all the professional team at Swisco and volunteer gardeners across Torbay, from Brixham to Babbacombe, on their outstanding achievements in the South West in Bloom awards; notes that Torbay secured three golds and a silver gilt for its towns, with golds also awarded to business entries, and all 33 It's Your Neighbourhood entries receiving either Outstanding or the top two gradings; commends the special discretionary awards presented to the Oldway Gardens volunteers, Babbacombe Model Village, and the newly planted Italianate Gardens in Abbey Park on Torquay seafront; and celebrates Torquay in Bloom's success in winning the Tesco Cup.

286Davidson Cottage in Aberlemno

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 4

Dave Doogan

Seamus Logan

Graham Leadbitter

Jim Shannon

That this House commends the work of the Davidson Legacy Preservation Group in highlighting the historical importance of the Davidson Cottage in Aberlemno as the ancestral home of the Davidson family, co-founders of Harley-Davidson motorcycles; notes the value of this site as a cultural and educational resource for local communities, tourists and motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide; welcomes the Group’s ambition to secure the future of the Cottage as a historical site whilst providing living-history tours, educational programmes and workshops celebrating Victorian craftsmanship and culture; recognises the outstanding fundraising work of the Group undertaken so far; highlights how close they are to achieving their funding goal, having already raised over £320,000 with less than £50,000 left to raise; notes the uniqueness of the Cottage as a signature tourist attraction in Angus, Scotland; and wishes the Davidson Legacy Preservation Group every success.

288Human rights in Pakistan

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 2

Jim Shannon

Andrew George

That this House is deeply concerned by the ongoing attacks, systemic discrimination and persecution faced by religious and ethnic minorities in Pakistan, who face violence and a lack of legal protection; notes with alarm the reports of forced conversions, abductions, and attacks on places of worship and property confiscations which infringe on their fundamental rights to freedom of religion, belief and security; recognises that these communities are integral members of the Pakistani society and have made significant contributions to its culture, history, and economy; requests the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to suspend relevant aid to Pakistan in light of these human rights abuses and religious intolerance; urges the FCDO to continue monitoring the situation closely and to consider reinstating aid only upon substantial improvements in the treatment of minorities; and calls on the UK Government to work with international partners to apply diplomatic pressure on Pakistan to take immediate effective measures to protect minority communities, ensure justice for victims, and uphold international human rights standards.

28930th anniversary of Bexley SNAP

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 2

Daniel Francis

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Bexley SNAP on reaching their 30th anniversary this year; notes that Bexley SNAP was founded by a group of parents in 1994 to provide activities and support to disabled children; highlights their work in offering disabled children and young people aged between 1 year to 25 years a variety of clubs to provide parents and carers support, guidance and valuable respite; thanks all staff, trustees and volunteers for their work, for supporting the community and assisting hundreds of young people and their families; and wishes them all the best for the future.

290Forres Britain in Bloom award

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 4

Graham Leadbitter

Seamus Logan

Dave Doogan

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Forres for winning the gold medal at the 2024 Britain in Bloom awards; recognises the hard work and dedication of the local community in creating and maintaining a beautiful and sustainable environment; pays special tribute to volunteer Barry Ashby, whose exceptional efforts and passion earned him the Community Champion Award; and notes that the contributions of all volunteers reflects the pride people rightly take in their town.

291World Porridge Making Championship 2024

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 4

Graham Leadbitter

Dave Doogan

Jim Shannon

Seamus Logan

That this House celebrates the success of the 2024 Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Championship held annually in Carrbridge, Scotland; congratulates Chris Ormiston on being crowned the Golden Spurtle World Champion and Kim McGhee for winning the Speciality Dish award; acknowledges the importance of this event in promoting Scottish produce and heritage; and commends the commitment of all participants and organisers over three decades in showcasing Scotland’s culinary traditions, fostering community spirit, and encouraging tourism in the region.

292Youth hub pilot schemes in Leicester

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 2

Shockat Adam

Jim Shannon

That this House welcomes the Government’s manifesto commitment to create a Young Futures programme with a network of hubs reaching every community; notes these hubs will have youth workers, mental health support workers and careers advisers on hand to support young people; further notes Leicester City Council has a network of adventure playgrounds that are well used by young people in the city and supported through voluntary activity of community and friends groups; recognises funding cuts to local authority budgets has put the long term future of the adventure playgrounds in doubt; believes these facilities would be suitable for Young Futures hubs; and calls on the Minister for Sport, Media, Civil Society and Youth to work with Leicester City Council, local MPs and community groups to establish a pilot scheme of Young Futures youth hubs in the city.

293Avanti West Coast disruptions

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 2

Tim Farron

Christine Jardine

That this House notes the ongoing disruption of train services operated by Avanti West Coast, particularly the frequent cancellation of services on the mainline north of Preston when there is disruption on the line in Scotland, even when it would be perfectly possible to run services to stations between Preston and the Scottish border; regrets the subsequent impact on train operations in Cumbria, north Lancashire and south west Scotland; notes that these disruptions have led to significant inconvenience for commuters, tourists, students and businesses relying on reliable transport links; urges the Secretary of State for Transport to work closely with Avanti West Coast to improve service reliability in Northern England; calls for compensation for affected passengers; and believes that Avanti should lose their franchise if they do not end the practice of unnecessarily cancelling services north of Preston.

294Outdoor education

Tabled: 22/10/24 Signatories: 6

Tim Farron

Christine Jardine

Jim Shannon

Andrew George

Sarah Dyke

Charlotte Cane

That this House notes the profound benefits of outdoor education for children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being; highlights the value of residential outdoor learning in developing essential life skills; urges the Government to make it a statutory part of the school curriculum; calls for inclusivity, ensuring all children can access outdoor learning regardless of background; further highlights the success of centres like Outward Bound at Ullswater, the Bendrigg Trust, the Brathay Trust, and Patterdale Hall in providing an unparalleled backdrop for educational development; and urges the Government to prioritise investment in outdoor learning for the benefit of future generations.