Contents

Published – Tuesday 12 November 2024

Early Day Motions tabled on Monday 11 November 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

376Support for endometriosis care

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Catherine Fookes

That this House is concerned about the severe impact that endometriosis has on the physical and mental health of one in ten women in the UK; notes that this painful condition affects 1.5 million women causing chronic pain, and fatigue and, in some cases, an inability to conceive and that people who have the disease still wait over eight years on average to be diagnosed; commends research by Dr Jasmine Hearn and colleagues at Manchester Metropolitan University published in the Journal of Health Communication 2024, which found that many women’s experiences of seeking medical help was characterized by doctors and nurses not believing them, thinking they were exaggerating, and dismissing their concerns as women’s issues, making them feel ashamed, embarrassed, powerless and less likely to seek out help in the future; and calls on the governments in the four nations of the UK to work to improve understanding of endometriosis in the fields of health, education and employment, which are currently lacking in research and healthcare, in addition to medical interventions.

377National Engineering Day 2024

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Dave Doogan

That this House marks National Engineering Day 2024, a national awareness day organised by the Royal Academy of Engineering; recognises the importance of engineering to the UK’s prosperity; notes with concern the lack of diversity within the engineering profession and the need for skilled workers across engineering disciplines in all nations of the UK; further notes that Engineering UK’s Women in Engineering and Technology report (published May 2024) found that the percentage of women in the engineering workforce was just 15.7% in 2023; is concerned that this represents a decline from the 2022 figure of 16.5%; and calls on the Government to take steps to equip the UK with the skilled workforce it needs to meet the challenges of sustainability and technological advancement by creating an education and skills system which produces a diverse engineering and technology profession equipped with the skills needed for the future.

378Alan Sayers and the Falkirk Business Improvement District

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Euan Stainbank

That this House recognises the immense work of Business Improvement Districts (BID) across the country and thanks the Falkirk Business Improvement District for their work on behalf of Falkirk town centre businesses; congratulates Alan Sayers for winning an award for being a High Street Hero; and agrees with Falkirk BID manager Elaine Grant that his humility, professionalism, and relentless dedication to his work and community make him a deserving recipient of the Scotland Loves Local High Street Hero Award.

379Taxing low paid workers

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Mr Gregory Campbell

That this House notes the Government's welcome recent announcement that the National Living Wage is due to increase to £12.21 per hour from April 2025 affecting three million lower paid workers; further notes that there is no increase in income tax thresholds, meaning that virtually all three million people will become tax payers; and understands that aligned to the increase in employers National Insurance contributions and the fact that many of those affected work in the hospitality sector which will entail retail prices increasing to pay for these additional costs, the end result will be that the general public will pay for the increase in wages while HM Treasury will gain several billion pounds in additional revenue every year.

380National insurance increase and the voluntary sector

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Ellie Chowns

That this House recognises the significant contributions made by the voluntary sector in building resilient, connected communities across the UK and delivering essential services, including mental health support, community care, and crisis intervention; notes with concern that the recent increase in National Insurance Contributions (NIC) will have a severe financial impact on the voluntary sector, which is already under strain due to escalating operational costs and cuts to contract funding; further notes that while the Government has committed to reimbursing public sector organisations for this increase, no such provision has been extended to the voluntary sector; highlights the risk that this additional financial burden will force many of its organisations to reduce staff, cut services, and even withdraw from delivering their services, leaving vulnerable individuals and communities without vital support; and urges the Government to extend the NIC reimbursement to the voluntary sector, recognising its role as a lifeline in many communities.

381Humanitarian situation in Sudan

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Monica Harding

That this House notes that some 25 million people are facing acute hunger and urgently need humanitarian assistance in Sudan, that 14 regions are on the brink of famine and famine conditions have already been confirmed in ZamZam Camp in North Darfur and that more than 10 million have been displaced from their homes; further notes that civilians in the country are facing incredible hardship, fear and suffering and notes an increase in gender based violence; recognises that the UK’s overseas aid spending is at its the lowest in 17 years, having been cut by £2 billion in the 2024-25 fiscal year; also notes that the UK has assumed presidency of the United Nations Security Council and is the penholder on Sudan; calls on the Government to increase humanitarian assistance to Sudan and make it a central issue during meetings of the Security Council; further calls on the Government to play a stronger role in seeking a ceasefire and peace process where civilians are a part of the democratic government; also calls on the Government to sponsor a new Security Council resolution to create safe zones for civilians, designating no-fly areas for aircraft and Iranian drones and upholding responsibilities under Resolution 2417; and calls on the Government to increase the capacity of its mission in Sudan as a practical means of support.

382Contribution of animals to the Armed Forces

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Josh Babarinde

That this House recognises that, alongside the extraordinary human contribution to the war effort in WWI and WWII, there was also an extraordinary animal effort, including the services of 8 million horses and countless mules that died in WWI, the services of 300,000 pigeons that served Britain in WWI and WWII, carrying essential messages when other forms of communication were not possible, including 17,000 pigeons dropped into occupied countries in WWI, where fewer than 1 in 8 returned, the services of 20,000 dogs that were trained for the British frontline in WWI to deliver essential medical supplies, employed by the Red Cross, the services of 7,000 dogs whose owners offered their pets for service, including Airedale terriers trained to find injured soldiers in WWI, and including Rob the Collie who undertook 20 parachute jumps into North Africa and was awarded the Dickens Medal for Gallantry, alongside 65 other animals who have received the Dickens medal since WWII; notes that animals continue to make a significant contribution to our Armed Forces; and believes that animals should be recognised even further as a key part of our Armed Forces, and that they should be commemorated by further uptake of the Purple Poppy.

383Work of St John Ambulance

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 6

Kirith Entwistle

Mary Kelly Foy

Sarah Hall

Charlotte Nichols

Sonia Kumar

Zöe Franklin

That this House recognises the lifesaving work of St John Ambulance volunteers across the country, training 250,000 members of the public in first aid every year, providing event first aid cover at 11,000 events and delivering 4,000 hours of emergency support to the NHS per month as the nation’s ambulance auxiliary; acknowledges that 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests take place every year in the UK with less than 1 in 10 people surviving and immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation and that defibrillation can more than double the chances of survival; is concerned by the findings of St John Ambulance’s recent survey that revealed 49% of the public would feel panicked if they came across a health emergency, with one in three members of the public afraid to give CPR to women due to fear of inappropriate touching; thanks the work of St John Ambulance volunteers, first aid charities and NHS Ambulance services in providing physical and mental health first aid training in communities to improve first aid confidence; and encourages the Government to support first aid education and volunteers as part of the NHS-10-Year Plan to tackle health inequalities, improve health outcomes and save lives.

384Occupational Therapy Week 2024

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Max Wilkinson

That this House recognises Occupational Therapy Week 2024; celebrates the invaluable role of occupational therapists across the UK in delivering holistic, person-centred care to improve health outcomes, promote independent living, and reduce pressures on NHS and social care services; acknowledges the vital contributions of occupational therapists working across diverse settings to support hospital discharge, rehabilitation, and community-based support; welcomes the Royal College of Occupational Therapists’ (RCOT) Workforce Strategy, which outlines the key role that an enlarged occupational therapy workforce based primarily within communities can play as a catalyst for the Government’s plans to move care into communities, leverage technology and prioritise prevention and early intervention; and urges the Government to work with RCOT to deliver this vision.

385Visually impaired cricket team Australia tour

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Max Wilkinson

That this House extends its best wishes to the England Visually Impaired Cricket Team as they embark on their tour of Australia starting on 12 November 2024; notes that this team exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the power of inclusion in sport, setting an inspiring example for athletes of all abilities; applauds their commitment not only to the game but also to raising awareness and encouraging people with visual impairments to engage in inclusive sports is truly admirable; and wishes them success on the field and safe travels throughout their tour.

386Disclosure of Special Branch files

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

John McDonnell

That this House notes with concern that Special Branch documents show that the undercover police reported on union members speaking at meetings asking for solidarity with striking workers; further notes that in an internal police report known as Operation Reuben, the police admit that intelligence gathered by undercover policing was shared by both Special Branch and the security services, with employers and the notorious blacklisting organisations such as the Economic League and the Consulting Association; also notes that there is now conclusive evidence that Special Branch infiltrated trade union meetings and kept files on every trade union in the UK; and calls for all the spycops files to be disclosed to those who were spied on.

387Value of rural post offices

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Lizzi Collinge

That this House celebrates and commends the continued hard work of postmasters and mistresses in rural communities across the beautiful Morecambe Bay, Lune Valley and Westmorland; recognises and thanks them for their commitment to their communities; highlights the importance of their public service in connecting communities; emphasises their necessity in ensuring older people in particular are able to communicate with family and friends, see their neighbours, and access vital services including banking; finds it regrettable that their hard work to provide this service has been put under pressure by low remuneration, higher bills and economic instability under the previous Government; welcomes postmasters and mistresses finally receiving justice following the Horizon scandal and thanks the government for funding the compensation they deserve; and thanks hardworking village postmasters and mistresses, who have proudly continued to serve their communities to the gratitude of this House.

388Spirit duty on Scotch whisky

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Jamie Stone

That this House recognises the value of the Scotch whisky industry; acknowledges its £7.1 billion a year contribution to the UK economy; highlights the importance of Scotch whisky as a major UK export; further recognises that the far north of Scotland is home to many successful distilleries, such as Glenmorangie and Old Pulteney; understands the importance of protecting this revenue; rebukes the Chancellor’s hike in spirit duty and the damage it will cause to these businesses; and calls on the Government to reconsider.

389Social care workers and National Insurance

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Steve Darling

That this House notes that social care workers should be exempt from the National Insurance tax rise announced in the Autumn Budget 2024; welcomes the extra funding provided for the NHS and other public sector organisations to cover the cost of the tax rise, but notes that the vast majority of care providers will not benefit from this help; further notes that 98% of care providers are small employers; and calls on the Government to reconsider National Insurance proposals so that care providers including care homes and those providing care in people's homes should be exempt from the National Insurance tax increase.

390Use of swift bricks

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Adam Dance

That this House notes with concern the dramatic decline in swift populations across the country; recognises that swift bricks are a sensible, low-cost solution to support the reintroduction of swift nesting sites in areas where they have been lost; further notes that swift bricks can be easily implemented into different types of developments; also notes that swift bricks provide nests for other types of endangered species, strengthening local biodiversity; and calls on the Government to encourage the use of swift bricks in its planned 1.5 million new developments.

391World Diabetes Day 2024

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates World Diabetes Day 2024, marked on 14 November, the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922; notes the theme for 2024 is Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps to raise awareness and improve the lives of people suffering with Diabetes; highlights that there are around 537 million people worldwide that have Diabetes, 4.4 million of which are in the UK; underlines that National Diabetes Day was first officially recognised by the UN in 2006 and that the campaign reaches over one billion people in more than 160 countries; and thanks the International Diabetes Federation for all they do in educating people across the world on the impact Diabetes can have and for their help in supporting those with Diabetes cope day to day with the effects of the condition.

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.

330Support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency

Tabled: 29/10/24 Signatories: 37

Andy McDonald

Brian Leishman

Debbie Abrahams

Abtisam Mohamed

Richard Burgon

John McDonnell

That this House expresses its regret at the passing of laws in Israel's Knesset which in effect denies the protections and means essential for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), the largest humanitarian agency in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, to operate; believes there is no viable alternative to UNRWA to deliver aid necessary to Palestinian refugees; further believes such action by Israel will compound the suffering of Palestinians; and calls on the UK Government to take all necessary steps with the United Nations to ensure UNRWA can continue its work in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

332Oliver Campbell wrongful conviction

Tabled: 29/10/24 Signatories: 18

Kim Johnson

Apsana Begum

John McDonnell

Mrs Lorraine Beavers

Clive Lewis

Andy McDonald

That this House welcomes the recent decision of the Court of Appeal to overturn the wrongful conviction of Oliver Campbell, who was convicted in 1991 and served over 11 years in prison; pays tribute to the tenacity and dedication of Oliver, his loved ones and his lawyers Michael Birnbaum KC and Glyn Maddocks KC, who have worked tirelessly for more than two decades to clear his name; notes that the Criminal Cases Review Commission was prepared to take a second look at this conviction and, on this occasion, decided correctly to refer this conviction to the Court of Appeal; regrets that the Court of Appeal did not carry out a thorough investigation of the activities and actions of the Metropolitan Police officers in 1990 who were instrumental in obtaining a false confession from Oliver Campbell, which led directly to his conviction; calls on the Government to launch an independent inquiry into the failings that led to this conviction and to publish its findings; and further calls on the Government to review the iniquitous rules governing the payment of compensation to those who have suffered a miscarriage of justice, which were introduced by the coalition Government in 2014, the effect of which is that only those who can prove beyond reasonable doubt that they are not guilty of the crime for which they were convicted can successfully claim compensation following a decision of the Court of Appeal to overturn their conviction.

333360 years of the Royal Marines in the South West

Tabled: 29/10/24 Signatories: 25

Ian Roome

Angus MacDonald

Edward Morello

Caroline Voaden

Jess Brown-Fuller

Dr Danny Chambers

That this House congratulates the Corps of Royal Marines on their 360th anniversary; recognises their contribution to the rich maritime heritage of the entire South West region, including at RM Chivenor, RM Stonehouse, RM Norton Manor, and CTCRM Lympstone among others; acknowledges the essential role that the Royal Marines have played in the defence of the UK during countless military operations around the world; and thanks serving and former Royal Marines for their dedication to duty.

33430th anniversary of the Phoenix Cup

Tabled: 29/10/24 Signatories: 10

Wendy Chamberlain

Angus MacDonald

Charlotte Cane

Brian Leishman

Jim Shannon

Stephen Gethins

That this House celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Phoenix Cup, and that it is being hosted in the Home of Golf, St Andrews; recognises the fact that this is the world’s first fully inclusive international team event for disabled golfers; welcomes the over 30 male and female golfers from around Europe and the United States who are currently in St Andrews competing in the Phoenix Cup; acknowledges that an impressive 888 players of all ages with physical, sensory, or intellectual disabilities across 18 countries worldwide have participated in the event over the past three decades; and looks forward to the many years to come of the Cup.

337Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Tabled: 29/10/24 Signatories: 10

Patricia Ferguson

Andrew Rosindell

Brian Leishman

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Stephen Gethins

That this House commends the City of Glasgow for stepping in to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games following the withdrawal of the Australian state of Victoria and following the successful hosting of the 2014 Commonwealth Games; acknowledges that the Games play an important role in highlighting the benefits of the Commonwealth, bringing people from across the world together around an exciting and popular sporting event, welcoming athletes from across the Commonwealth to the City, including to Glasgow West constituency which will host the athletics events in the Scotstoun Stadium; recognises that the Commonwealth Games not only bring benefits to the sports community, but provides economic benefits both to the host city, and to the surrounding region and marks an exciting opportunity for Glasgow to showcase its vibrant culture, rich history, and welcoming spirit on the global stage; notes the efforts that are already being made by Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Life, businesses and citizens as the city begins its preparations to host the Games; and further recognises that this endeavour will require all sectors of Government and society to lend their support, to ensure that Glasgow is able to deliver an event that continues the magnificent tradition of the Games.

338Israeli Knesset decision to ban UNRWA

Tabled: 29/10/24 Signatories: 48

Calum Miller

Luke Taylor

Steve Darling

Mr Alistair Carmichael

Anna Sabine

Munira Wilson

That this House expresses its deep concern at the Israeli Knesset’s vote to ban UNRWA; notes that this comes at a desperate moment in Gaza with a senior UN humanitarian official warning that the entire population of north Gaza is at risk of dying; further notes that, given the critical role played by UNRWA in distributing humanitarian aid within Gaza, this decision risks catastrophic consequences; urges the UK Government to accompany words of condemnation with consequences for breaches of international law; according urges the Government to implement sanctions against far-right Ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich for their incitement of violence against Palestinians by illegal settlers; further urges the Government to press for immediate access for humanitarian aid into Gaza; and calls on the Government to provide all necessary assistance, including aid, to UNRWA to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and ensure that the recommendations of the independent Colonna report are implemented as quickly as possible.

339Scotland Beyond Net Zero

Tabled: 29/10/24 Signatories: 9

Martin Rhodes

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Dr Scott Arthur

Mary Kelly Foy

Jamie Stone

That this House celebrates the launch of Scotland Beyond Net Zero’s (SBNZ) inaugural phase of seed funding for projects tackling climate change; further celebrates the effort of Scotland’s higher education Institutions in collaborating to use their research and development strengths to accelerate net zero targets; recognises the unique role of universities as vehicles for innovation in tackling the climate crisis; acknowledges that the seed funding has been awarded to eight innovative projects across six themes: food, finance, built environment, natural systems, energy and transport; commends SBNZ for allocating up to £15,000 to research projects, which will explore interdisciplinary solutions to complex climate issues; and looks forward to seeing SBNZ, and all projects awarded funding, continue to create positive change around Scotland’s beyond net zero future.

342Work of Fishing 4 Mental Health

Tabled: 30/10/24 Signatories: 8

Sarah Gibson

Steve Darling

Wendy Chamberlain

Claire Young

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

That this House recognises the work of Fishing 4 Mental Health in showing how angling can help to promote wellbeing; acknowledges that Fishing 4 Mental Health is supporting people suffering with mental health challenges by providing a safe, friendly and supportive environment that encourages individuals to enjoy the beauty of the natural world; celebrates their work to tackle stigmas about mental health amongst men; and commends their campaign for a Fishing 4 Mental Health day to be commemorated each year on 16 August.

344Access to banking hubs

Tabled: 30/10/24 Signatories: 27

Adam Dance

Ellie Chowns

Steff Aquarone

Chris Coghlan

Caroline Voaden

Edward Morello

That this House is concerned about the lack of banking services in rural towns such as Ilminster, which has yet to receive a banking hub; recognises the importance of maintaining access to in-person banking and cash services; notes that banking hubs are a key alternative for communities that have lost access to bank and building society branches; and acknowledges that rural constituencies in particular (due to their local geography, availability of public transport, and lack of support for utilising digital services) urgently need more banking hubs.

345Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medication shortages

Tabled: 30/10/24 Signatories: 22

Adam Dance

Ellie Chowns

Steff Aquarone

Steve Darling

Edward Morello

Wendy Chamberlain

That this House expresses deep concern over the shortage and intermittent availability of ADHD medications such as concerta XL; notes the symptoms those with ADHD exhibit, such as difficulty focusing and acting without thinking, as well as the impacts of these on the daily functioning of individuals; further notes the disproportionate impact these symptoms have on children who, as a result of the disorder, face barriers in their education and general development; recognises the barriers faced by individuals suffering from ADHD in accessing employment opportunities; further recognises the potential stress and anxiety these medication shortages can have on individuals suffering from ADHD; sympathises with the experiences of those individuals, who often feel they are being overlooked and dismissed; and calls on the Government to do more to mitigate the issue of ADHD medication shortages.

346Islamophobia Awareness Month 2024

Tabled: 30/10/24 Signatories: 22

Christine Jardine

Ellie Chowns

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Steve Darling

Liz Jarvis

Ayoub Khan

That this House supports Islamophobia Awareness Month, which is taking place this November; recognises the valuable contributions that British Muslims make to our country; acknowledges that anti-Muslim sentiment is still far too prevalent in our society, and has sadly been on the rise in light of the conflict in the Middle East; notes with concern that Tell MAMA recorded nearly 5,00 incidents of anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia in the past year, an unprecedented volume of cases; further notes with concern that religious-based hate crimes recorded by police in England and Wales has increased by 25% over the past year; emphasises the importance of standing up to religious hatred in all its forms; and calls on the Government to take urgent action to address Islamophobia, including by immediately appointing an independent adviser on Islamophobia and adopting a working definition of Islamophobia.

354Support for community energy initiatives

Tabled: 4/11/24 Signatories: 9

Manuela Perteghella

Jim Shannon

Ian Roome

Gideon Amos

Andrew George

Angus MacDonald

That this House commends the efforts of community energy enterprises across the UK, particularly recognising the work of the Heart of England Community Energy (HECE), which operates one of the country’s largest community-owned solar farms, located just outside Stratford-upon-Avon, which has been generating clean electricity to power thousands of homes in the Heart of England since 2016, and demonstrating the vital role that community-led energy projects play in achieving a sustainable future; notes that HECE reinvests its profits into supporting local charities and projects; and calls on the Government to support policies that encourage community energy projects, thus empowering communities to take charge of their energy futures and share in the prosperity of a green energy transition.

35910th Annual Diwali Celebration in Edinburgh

Tabled: 4/11/24 Signatories: 5

Tracy Gilbert

Jim Shannon

Kirsteen Sullivan

Dr Scott Arthur

Christine Jardine

That this House commends the efforts of the Edinburgh Diwali Committee, volunteers, and community members who dedicated countless hours for a successful 10th Annual Diwali Celebration held in Edinburgh on 3rd November 2024; notes that this significant milestone marked a decade of promoting cultural awareness, inclusion, and unity through one of the most important festivals celebrated by the Indian community worldwide; understands that the celebration commenced with a lively and colourful parade from St George Square to Castle Street, led by 35 member Scottish Regiment band accompanied by other bands and seven dance groups showcasing traditional Indian and Peruvian music, and dance, highlighting the diversity and inclusion of multiple cultures, followed by a vibrant cultural program at the Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens, where artists groups performed Indian classical, bollywood & fusion, Scottish highland dances and Live fusion band, captivating the audience and fostering cultural exchange; and agrees that the celebration brought together thousands of people from different backgrounds and served as a reminder of the shared values of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.

36130 years of the National Lottery

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 5

Jim Shannon

Kirsteen Sullivan

Tonia Antoniazzi [R]

Daniel Francis

Christine Jardine

That this House celebrates the 30th birthday of the National Lottery, who have supported fantastic causes as a way to bring positive change right across the UK; notes that the first draw was held in 1994 and that the National Lottery have raised over £49 billion and awarded over 690,000 individual grans to projects and community organisations, which make a huge different in supporting so many people; highlights the efforts of fundraisers and beneficiaries who are essential in working alongside the National Lottery to help them do what to do so well; underlines their commitment to strengthening local communities, sports teams, environmental projects and also to supporting young people achieve their full potential; thanks all of the volunteers and staff for all their hard work; and wishes the National Lottery many more years of supporting growth across the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

362Cuts to the International Development Budget

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 19

Monica Harding

Anna Sabine

Layla Moran

Claire Young

Ian Sollom

Adam Dance

That this House expresses disappointment at the cut to international development spending in the Budget; notes that conflicts in the Middle East, the Sahel, the Horn of Africa and Ukraine mean the United Kingdom's support is needed more than ever; recognises that overseas aid spending is at its the lowest in 17 years, having been cut by £2 billion in the 2024/25 fiscal year; further notes that the Prime Minister previously promised to reset Britain’s place in the world and return to our status as an international development superpower; believes that this is crucial given the way the former Conservative Government trashed the UK’s reputation on the world stage, including via abandoning the 0.7%; and calls on the Government to restore Official Development Assistance to 0.7% of GNI as soon as possible in order to reinstate the country’s commitment to the world’s poorest by ensuring that the United Kingdom is a global leader on development.

363Gaza family visa scheme

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 20

Rachael Maskell

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Shockat Adam

Andrew George

Sorcha Eastwood

Ayoub Khan

That this House notes the loss of over 40,000 people in Gaza resulting from the current conflict with the toll of injured, exposed to infectious disease and famine growing by the day, and far exceeding 100,000, while the destruction of the Gaza's health infrastructure means that people cannot access vital medical attention; and further notes that there are a small number of Palestinians living in the UK whose loved ones are at imminent risk in Gaza, so calls upon the Government to introduce a Gaza Family Visa Scheme, based upon the Ukraine Family Scheme, to enable Palestinians from Gaza to reunite with their family members and seek temporary sanctuary in the UK until it is safe to return.

364Haggis the pygmy hippo

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 16

Christine Jardine

Steve Darling

Wendy Chamberlain

Shockat Adam

Jamie Stone

Wera Hobhouse

That this House celebrates the birth of Haggis, Edinburgh Zoo’s newest pygmy hippo; recognises that pygmy hippos are classified as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species; commends the work that Edinburgh Zoo does to promote biodiversity and protect vulnerable species; hopes that Haggis’ arrival will increase awareness of the challenges that pygmy hippos face in their natural habitats; and wishes all the best for Haggis, her mother Gloria and the entire Edinburgh Zoo community.

365Imprisonment of Alaa Abd el-Fattah

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 18

John McDonnell

Richard Burgon

Shockat Adam

Zarah Sultana

Apsana Begum

Rebecca Long Bailey

That this House expresses its grave concern at the continuing imprisonment of British national writer Alaa Abd el-Fattah, whose most recent five-year sentence ended on 29 September, yet the Egyptian government refused to release him; notes that following the refusal by Egypt’s government to release Alaa, Laila Souief, Alaa’s mother, declared a hunger strike which has now entered its fourth week; considers that meaningful action is necessary to secure Alaa’s release; and urges the Foreign Secretary to press once again for Alaa's release with the clear understanding that there will be serious diplomatic consequences for the Egyptian government as the Foreign Secretary warned when in opposition.

3664 day working week

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 14

Carla Denyer

Siân Berry

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Rachael Maskell

Claire Hanna

Graham Leadbitter

That this House recognises that UK workers have some of the longest working hours in Europe, yet the UK’s productivity lags behind its G7 counterparts; further recognises that boosting productivity is a priority for the government’s “Five Missions for Britain”; notes that, according to a recent Mental Health First Aid England report, the five-day working week is hindering productivity and contributing to stress, burnout, and poor mental health, costing the UK economy £28 billion annually; further notes that trials of a four-day week, including in the UK, have found that shorter working hours with no loss of pay can significantly boost productivity, whilst also reducing workplace stress and burnout, and that a report by the Autonomy Institute and Alda shows that Iceland’s economy has outperformed most of Europe after adopting a shorter working week; is disappointed that the Employment Rights Bill does not include steps towards a four-day week with no loss of pay despite prior indications; welcomes the newly announced 1,000-person four-day week trial as an important step; calls on the Government to take further steps by introducing a far-reaching public sector pilot within local authorities across the UK, similar to the initiatives by the Scottish Government and South Cambridgeshire District Council; and further calls on the Government to provide local authorities with the necessary funding to implement this trial successfully.

367Release of Emily Damari

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 25

Freddie van Mierlo

Layla Moran

Calum Miller

Charlie Maynard

Adam Dance

Wendy Chamberlain

That this House notes the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza while Hamas continues to hold hostages including British citizen Emily Damari; urges the Government and Foreign Secretary to take all actions within their power to secure Emily’s release and the release of all remaining hostages; further urges the Government to engage in international efforts to secure a ceasefire so the hostages can be released and to get aid into Gaza; and also urges the Government to advocate for British citizens abroad; including introducing a right to consular assistance in the case of human rights violations.

368Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly elections

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 15

Imran Hussain

Tahir Ali

Richard Burgon

Mohammad Yasin

Zarah Sultana

Andy McDonald

That this House recognises the right to self-determination for Kashmiris; notes that since the partition of 1947, the region and population of Kashmir have been divided between three countries; further notes that Indian-occupied Kashmir is the most militarised zone in the world; opposes the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35a of the Indian Constitution that revoked Kashmir’s special status; decries the use of sweeping arrest powers, disappearances, torture, extra-judicial killings and other grave human rights violations against dissidents; also notes with particular concern the detention of journalists and political leaders such as JKLF Chairman Yasin Malik on an indefinite hunger strike protesting insufficient medical facilities in his Delhi jail, and the erosion of freedoms of speech, expression and the press; observes the election of a new J&K coalition government, and recognises the appointment of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on an anti-abrogation mandate; supports UN Security Council Resolution 47, ruling that the future of J&K should be decided by its own people through democratic means of a free and impartial plebiscite; regrets the lack of action over seven decades, further entrenching injustice; acknowledges the large British Kashmiri diaspora in Britain and their aspirations for a just settlement; calls on the Government to push for a resolution to the ongoing occupation, end the impunity granted to Indian armed forces in Kashmir and prioritise the aspirations of Kashmiris; and further calls on the Government to use its Presidency of the United Nations Security Council to implement the rulings of UN Security Council 47.

369Agricultural Property Relief (No. 2)

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 2

Carla Lockhart

Jim Shannon

That this House objects to the Government's recent changes to inheritance tax as announced in the Budget, which limit agricultural property relief to the first £1 million of a farm's value and apply a 20% tax rate on assets exceeding this threshold; notes with concern that family-run farms, often passed down through generations, could be forced to sell portions of their land or assets to meet this tax obligation, threatening the continuity of family agricultural businesses; further notes that these reforms could significantly impact fair competition within the agri-food sector, affect food production capacity, potentially increasing food prices and destabilising rural economies; recognises with concern that this policy may have a detrimental impact on wider rural entrepreneurship and the sustainability of mulit-generation family enterprises; also recognises the unequal impact this will have across the UK among nations and regions which have significant rural communites, such as Northern Ireland, impacting the agricultural sector in these areas disproportionately; believes that the Government's inheritance tax policy will negatively affect family farms, with the cost to rural communities outweighing potential revenue gains; and calls on the Government to reconsider these reforms to support the preservation of family-owned farms, safeguard the UK’s agricultural sector, and ensure the stability of rural communities across the country.

371Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief

Tabled: 6/11/24 Signatories: 12

Edward Morello

Vikki Slade

Helen Morgan

David Chadwick

Angus MacDonald

Helen Maguire

That this House recognises the essential role of family-run farms in sustaining rural communities, particularly in areas like West Dorset, and providing high-quality food for the nation; notes that the proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief from April 2026, with only the first £1 million of agricultural and business assets fully exempt from inheritance tax, pose a critical threat to these farms' continuity; further notes that 49% of farms already have a net worth of over £1.5 million, and that the average farm value far exceeds this cap, these adjustments could force families to sell vital assets to meet tax obligations; notes that the sustainability of these generational farms, many of which are central to food security and biodiversity, is at risk; and calls on the Government to urgently reassess these measures to safeguard the future of UK agriculture and the rural economy.

372GWR Sunday timetable

Tabled: 6/11/24 Signatories: 13

Max Wilkinson

Steve Darling

Caroline Voaden

David Chadwick

Rachel Gilmour

Ben Maguire

That this House notes with concern the level of service provided by the GWR rail franchise on Sundays; recognises that Sunday is a popular day for leisure travel, but also for those travelling for work purposes, visiting family and for students; further notes with concern the apparent deterioration of the service in recent months, including the cancellation of large numbers of services, delays, and overcrowding; notes that passengers can no longer confidently rely on the GWR timetable for Sunday travel; and appeals to Ministers to intervene.

373OVO Energy monthly fees for paper format bills

Tabled: 6/11/24 Signatories: 12

Mr Alistair Carmichael

Ayoub Khan

Vikki Slade

Wendy Chamberlain

Steve Darling

David Chadwick

That this House notes with concern OVO Energy’s intention to introduce monthly fees for customers that receive their bills in paper format from December; believes that such a fee is counterproductive as families continue to struggle with high energy costs, particularly in the run-up to winter; further notes that such a change risks disadvantaging older and other vulnerable people, even allowing for planned mitigations; and calls on OVO Energy to reverse this harmful and unnecessary decision immediately.

374National insurance increase and the social care sector

Tabled: 6/11/24 Signatories: 4

Ellie Chowns

Ayoub Khan

Angus MacDonald

Colum Eastwood

That this House notes with concern the ongoing challenges faced by the social care sector, including chronic underfunding and workforce shortages; further notes that the recent increase in national insurance contributions announced in the Autumn Budget is set to place additional financial pressure on this already stretched sector; recognises that while the Government has made an allowance to reimburse public sector organisations for the cost of this increase, most social care providers are not public sector organisations and are therefore not covered by this provision; calls on the Government to urgently clarify the financial implications of the national insurance policy on the social care sector; and further calls for provisions to protect not-for-profit care providers from the national insurance increase to help the sustainability and stability of essential social care services.