Contents

Published – Tuesday 19 November 2024

Early Day Motions tabled on Monday 18 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

412Amy Adair, world medal in karate

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Alex Easton

That this House congratulates Amy Adair from Conlig on her outstanding achievement at the IKU World Karate Championships in Buenos Aires, where she proudly represented Karate Northern Ireland and returned with her first-ever world medal in kumite (sparring); notes that Amy, a committed member of the Mizukara clubs in Newtownards and Bangor, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and perseverance, training tirelessly and competing on the international circuit since her previous world championship participation at the WUKF event in Dundee last year; commends her coach, David Brashaw, for his guidance and for fostering an inspiring environment that has contributed to Amy’s success, despite the lack of government funding for athletes from Northern Ireland, which led Amy to personally fund most of her trip with additional support from a GoFundMe campaign; wishes Amy and her fellow Mizukara karate students every success at the forthcoming Karate Ireland National Championships on 24 November; and recognises the continued commitment of the Mizukara clubs to karate in Northern Ireland, as they prepare to celebrate their 13th anniversary on 8 December with Sensei Ian Cuthbert from Karate England.

413Jim Allan, High Street Hero Award winner, Lothian 2024

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Kirsteen Sullivan

That this House celebrates the work of Bathgate bairn Jim Allan; congratulates Jim Allan on winning the Scotland Loves Local High Street Hero award for Lothian; acknowledges Jim Allan as an award-winning community role model and inspiring eco-warrior for his work in clearing litter; recognises the impact of litter on many communities; understands the danger of litter to wildlife and the natural environment; commends Jim for his hard-work collecting litter and inspiring local litter-pickers since 2019; thanks the inspired 3,650-strong community movement that has collected 541 tonnes of litter in the year to September 2024; further acknowledges the social and health benefits of these group activities in encouraging exercise and fresh air, and providing purpose; encourages the community aspiration and spirit needed to take up activities that help to improve street cleanliness, reconnect people with their neighbours and reap health benefits; and wishes Jim Allan and West Lothian Litter Pickers well in their future endeavours.

414Disclosure and Barring Service checks for hon. Members and Peers

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Jo White

That this House believes that all Parliamentarians should be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check when they take their place in the House of Commons or House of Lords.

415Wester Hailes post office

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Dr Scott Arthur

That this House regrets that Post Office Limited is considering closing Wester Hailes Post Office; further regrets the potential loss of jobs and service provision in the heart of one of Scotland's most deprived communities; notes that Post Office Limited has not yet contacted the local Member of Parliament to discuss their proposals for their vital community hub in one of Scotland's most deprived communities; agrees that the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry uncovered significant problems in the centre of the company, and people in Wester Hailes cannot be expected to pay the price for that; and calls for a genuine consultation process involving affected individuals before any final decision is made.

416Family visas

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Lisa Smart

That this House notes with concern the previous Government’s decision to increase the minimum income threshold for family visas to £29,000; acknowledges that this threshold unfairly separates families, particularly impacting low-income households and those in regions with lower average wages; recognises that a number of announcements on changes to the income threshold in the last 12 months has caused anxiety and uncertainty for many families; emphasises that family life should not be contingent on an arbitrary income level; urges the Government to provide an update on the progress of the Migration Advisory Committee’s review into the financial requirements of family visas; and calls on the Government to reverse the increase to the minimum income threshold for family visas, so no more families are torn apart.

417200 years of Carrickmannon Primary School

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the 200th birthday of Carrickmannon Primary School, in the village of Ballygowan which lies in the constituency of Strangford; notes that Carrickmannon is a controlled Primary School, with a current enrolment of 87 children and the building itself, opened in 1825, is noted of historical interest, which the School have been able to renovate and extend, providing modern classroom facilities and a resource area; highlights the school's aspiration to provide children with the opportunity to become successful, confident learners whilst providing a safe and supportive environment to help children reach their full potential; underlines the commitment of staff who go above and beyond each day to teach pupils and give them the tools necessary to succeed; and wishes Carrickmannon all the very best for the future.

418200 years of Danske Bank

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the 200th birthday of Danske Bank, formerly Northern Bank, a local organisation firmly rooted in Northern Ireland; notes its construction in 1824 as Northern Bank, situated in Custom House Square Belfast, to help businesses and customers grow and maintain their financial goals; highlights that Danske Bank support over 50% of the Top 100 Northern Ireland Businesses, allowing for great insight into the NI business market; underlines the large range of businesses Danske Bank support, from all different sectors and all different sizes; thanks the staff and Chief Executive for their dedication to supporting people and businesses to take control of their finances; and wishes Danske Bank all the very best for the future.

41950th anniversary of the Birmingham pub bombings

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Jim Allister

That this House notes with real sadness the 50th anniversary of the Birmingham Pub Bombings which took place on 21 November 1974 in which 21 people were killed and 220 injured, the most deadly terrorist attack on British soil and largest unsolved mass murder; further notes that it is widely recognised that, despite their never having accepted responsibility, this was a brutal act of IRA terrorism; praises the work of Julie Hambleton, sister of Maxine Hambleton who was killed in the bombings, in setting up Justice 4 the 21; and calls on the Government to honour the calls of Justice 4 the 21 for a public inquiry out of respect for the memories of the 21, all those who were injured, and their families.

420Care for PANS and PANDAS

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Michelle Scrogham

That this House is concerned about the severe impact the post-infectious neuropsychiatric disorders Paediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) have on children, young people and families across the UK; notes that the impact is exacerbated by low levels of awareness and variation in care available further adding to the financial, emotional and educational toll; recognises that early intervention is known to lead to best outcomes but is rarely available to patients in the UK; applauds the publication of a manifesto by charity PANS PANDAS UK calling for the forthcoming NHS Ten Year Plan to take the needs of this community into account; commends the work of the PANS PANDAS Steering Group in seeking to implement change within health, education and social care; and calls on the Government to support this work through improved funding, research and training for professionals.

421Rory McIlroy, DP World Tour Championship and Race to Dubai

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Alex Easton

That this House congratulates Rory McIlroy on his outstanding victory at the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai; recognises this achievement as his third DP World Tour Championship title and his sixth Race to Dubai triumph, equalling the record set by Seve Ballesteros; acknowledges the dedication and resilience demonstrated by Mr. McIlroy throughout the 2024 season, culminating in this significant accomplishment; and commends his continued contributions to the sport of golf, serving as an inspiration to athletes across the United Kingdom and beyond.

422Puppy smuggling bill

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 2

Dr Danny Chambers

Richard Burgon

That this House welcomes the introduction of the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill, also known as the Puppy Smuggling Bill, which aims to address critical animal welfare and public health concerns associated with the illegal importation of dogs and cats; recognises that this Bill tackles puppy smuggling, the importation of heavily pregnant dogs, and the steep increase in animal mutilations, in particular ear cropping and tail docking; notes with concern the 2,000% increase in reported ear-cropping cases over the past decade, the 600% rise in pregnant dogs illegally smuggled into the UK over the past three years and that legal loopholes which allow animal mutilation and suffering continue to be exploited; further notes that up to half of online advertisements for puppies feature dogs that have been illegally imported; acknowledges with concern that illegally imported dogs pose a risk to human health by potentially transmitting non-endemic zoonotic diseases including rabies and Brucella canis; further acknowledges the support of the RSPCA, the British Veterinary Association and Dogs Trust for this Bill; and calls on the Government to enact the Puppy Smuggling Bill to create a framework that protects animal welfare and public health.

423ARK at Egwood, King’s Award for Voluntary Service

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 1

Adam Dance

That this House congratulates the team at ARK at Egwood for receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary Service; thanks the volunteers at ARK at Egwood for their work in providing a safe outdoor environment that supports people of all ages and varying needs and wishes them continued good fortune; commends the positive impact of ARK at Egwood’s unique approach, which combines nature, crafts, and community support, on individuals across the Yeovil constituency; and recognises that ARK at Egwood receiving this award is a testament to the powerful role that volunteer-led initiatives play in improving lives and strengthening communities.

42430th anniversary of Swarcliffe good neighbours scheme

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 2

Richard Burgon

John McDonnell

That this House congratulates Swarcliffe Good Neighbours Scheme on its 30th anniversary; celebrates its ongoing work providing services promoting the health and well-being of older people and their carers in Swarcliffe, Stanks and Whinmoor in East Leeds to support them living happy and fulfilled lives in the community; notes its fantastic range of activities including monthly trips, the luncheon club, the Knitting Circle, line-dancing and drop-in sessions for advice; thanks Ken Hill for his continuing work as Swarcliffe Good Neighbours Project Manager since 2005 and recognises and thanks Ken Hill's predecessor Philip Makin for his work as Project Manager for the first 11 years of Swarcliffe Good Neighbours; thanks all volunteers and local residents who have made, and who continue to make, Swarcliffe Good Neighbours Scheme so special; and wishes Swarcliffe Good Neighbours Scheme every happiness and success in its next 30 years of work in the community.

425D-Day veteran George Chandler

Tabled: 18/11/24 Signatories: 2

Alison Bennett

Richard Burgon

That this House notes with deep sadness the passing in October 2024 of World War 2 Navy veteran and Mid Sussex constituent George Chandler at the age of 99; expresses gratitude for his extraordinary life of service and his dedication to world war education and remembrance; recognises that with the passing of each veteran we are a step closer to World War 2 ceasing to be within living memory; wishes to highlight George’s advice for people to have more compassion for each other; calls on the Government and all educational institutions to redouble efforts to ensure that the lessons of the world wars are never forgotten; and further calls that future generations remain vigilant against intolerance, prejudice and violence in all its forms, continuing the vital legacy left by George Chandler and so many of his fellow war heroes.

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.

362Cuts to the International Development Budget

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 30

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: 33

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: 21

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: 22

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.

368Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly elections

Tabled: 5/11/24 Signatories: 19

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.

371Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief

Tabled: 6/11/24 Signatories: 21

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.

373OVO Energy monthly fees for paper format bills

Tabled: 6/11/24 Signatories: 21

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.

375Success of Brodie Countryfare

Tabled: 6/11/24 Signatories: 2

Graham Leadbitter

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Brodie Countryfare on winning the Independent Retailer of the Year award at the Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards; recognises that this prestigious award is a testament to Brodie Countryfare’s dedication, hard work, and the exceptional quality of service and products it provides to the region; commends their commitment to showcasing the finest in Scottish food and drink, as well as their thoughtful curation of local crafts and gifts; acknowledges that Brodie Countryfare has become a valued destination for both locals and visitors, supporting regional producers and artisans; and applauds their contribution to promoting Scotland’s unique culture and heritage in the Highlands and beyond.

376Support for endometriosis care

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 16

Catherine Fookes

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

Andrew George

Kirsteen Sullivan

Shockat Adam

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: 16

Dave Doogan

Jim Shannon

Graham Leadbitter

Andrew George

Chris Law

Luke Taylor

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.

380National insurance increase and the voluntary sector

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 10

Ellie Chowns

Ben Lake

Sammy Wilson

Andrew George

Siân Berry

Carla Denyer

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: 24

Monica Harding

Steve Darling

David Chadwick

Andrew Rosindell

Adam Dance

Ben Lake

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.

383Work of St John Ambulance

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 35

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: 16

Max Wilkinson

Steve Darling

Jim Shannon

Adam Dance

James MacCleary

Vikki Slade

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.

387Value of rural post offices

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 10

Lizzi Collinge

Mary Kelly Foy

Ben Lake

Andrew George

Jon Trickett

Jim Shannon

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.

389Social care workers and National Insurance

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 36

Steve Darling

Claire Young

Clive Jones

Tom Gordon

Edward Morello

Richard Foord

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.

391World Diabetes Day 2024

Tabled: 11/11/24 Signatories: 21

Jim Shannon

Tonia Antoniazzi

Mary Kelly Foy

Tristan Osborne

Daniel Francis

Andrew George

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.

397Humanitarian situation in Sudan (No. 2)

Tabled: 12/11/24 Signatories: 24

Zarah Sultana

John McDonnell

Apsana Begum

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Richard Burgon

Jon Trickett

That this House expresses deep concern over the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has displaced over 10 million people, caused widespread famine, and fuelled religious persecution and human rights abuses, including sexual violence; recognises this severe humanitarian crisis; urges the Government to act urgently by supporting an immediate, internationally mediated ceasefire and advocating for safe, unhindered humanitarian access to all regions affected by the conflict; and calls on the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to hold all parties accountable for civilian protection and adherence to international human rights standards, because immediate action is crucial to addressing the urgent needs of Sudan’s displaced and vulnerable populations, upholding religious freedom, and fostering lasting peace in the region.

398National Sherwood Forest Day

Tabled: 12/11/24 Signatories: 6

Michelle Welsh

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

Nadia Whittome

Jo White

Richard Burgon

That this House welcomes the celebration of a first National Sherwood Forest Day on 20 February on the anniversary of the birth of Major Hayman Rooke in 1723 for whom the Major Oak at Edwinstowe is named; notes that Sherwood Forest is a national environmental, cultural and heritage asset and its fame across the world for its close association with the legendary outlaw hero Robin Hood; thanks all those in the public, private and voluntary sectors who are active in preserving Sherwood Forest for future generations; and wishes all their efforts well in promoting the natural and cultural significance of Sherwood Forest.

40035 Years of the Edinburgh Interfaith Association

Tabled: 12/11/24 Signatories: 6

Dr Scott Arthur

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

Rachael Maskell

Graham Leadbitter

Chris Law

That this House congratulates the Edinburgh Interfaith Association (EIFA) on 35 years of service to Edinburgh; notes that throughout that time EIFA has diligently and effectively sought opportunities to cultivate and promote interfaith progress in the City of Edinburgh; respects that EIFA has been continuously recognised by other interfaith organisations throughout the world as an outstanding role model in terms of developing and delivering positively impactful interfaith programmes for the wider community; celebrates that in 2023 over 4000 Edinburgh primary school children benefitted from EIFA's Faith Road Show where different faiths share their practices and beliefs and together promote interfaith understanding and peace, highlighting the commonalities between faiths as well as encouraging respect for differences; thanks EIFA for the leadership they demonstrated in the summer of 2024 with the Lord Provost of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge and City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day when showing solidarity with the people of Southport and condemning the actions of those who sought to spread disinformation and to stir up hatred and violence; and further thanks the board members, who are predominantly drawn from Edinburgh’s diverse faith communities, on their ability to further the interfaith mission of the organisation.

401Big Noise Wester Hailes and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra

Tabled: 13/11/24 Signatories: 2

Dr Scott Arthur

Jim Shannon

That this House warmly congratulates the 35 young musicians from Big Noise Wester Hailes, all aged between 6 and 8, who performed side-by-side with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall on Friday the 1st of November 2024; welcomes that the concert gave the young participants an opportunity to play alongside accomplished professional musicians as part of Scotland’s National Orchestra, while demonstrating their musical skills to friends, family and lovers of fine music in the Usher Hall; notes that the joint orchestra, led by world renowned conductor Thomas Søndergård, performed two pieces of music, ‘Mission Mars’ and ‘Saturn’, which were both written by Sistema Scotland’s former Curriculum Leader Joëlle Broad; further notes that Big Noise Wester Hailes is the newest programme in the Sistema Scotland’s Big Noise family; recognises that Big Noise Wester Hailes was launched in 2022, and now works with around 400 children and their families from Clovenstone, Canal View, and Sighthill Primary and Nursery schools every week, supporting young people to reach their full potential; and thanks Sistema Scotland and all who fund Big Noise Wester Hailes, including the Scottish Government.

402Redundancies at TGI Fridays

Tabled: 13/11/24 Signatories: 10

Lee Barron

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Jon Trickett

Mary Kelly Foy

Mrs Lorraine Beavers

Richard Burgon

That this House condemns TGI Fridays’ decision to terminate over 1,000 staff with less than an hour’s notice, without consultation, leaving many workers locked out of their workplaces and unable to access their possessions; urges the Secretary of State for Business and Trade to meet with the dismissed workers; calls on Teneo to unlock the sites so that workers may retrieve their belongings; requests TGI Fridays ensures fair compensation, appropriate notice, and redundancy pay for all affected staff; further calls on the Business and Trade Select Committee to require TGI Fridays’ CEO, Julie McEwan, to appear before them; and further urges the Government to take urgent action to make mass firings without notice or consultation illegal.

403North East Fife Scottish Fish and Chip Award winners (No. 2)

Tabled: 13/11/24 Signatories: 3

Wendy Chamberlain

James MacCleary

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates The Wee Chippy in Anstruther on winning Best Fish Supper in the 2024 Scottish Fish and Chip Awards; celebrates Kelvin, one of their fryers, on winning Highly Recommended in the Best Fish Fryer category; commemorates Anstruther Fish Bar on winning the People’s Choice Award; commends Cromars in St Andrews for winning Highly Recommended for Best Fish Supper (East) and Best Chip Shop (East), and Fish and Frites - Anstruther for Highly Recommended Best Team; appreciates all three for serving high quality, delicious food to the community in North East Fife; and wishes them all the best for the future.

404Scientific hearing on animal experiments (No. 3)

Tabled: 13/11/24 Signatories: 12

Chris Law

Graham Leadbitter

Ellie Chowns

Richard Burgon

Siân Berry

Carla Denyer

That this House applauds the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022, enshrining in law the ability of animals to experience joy and feel suffering and pain; notes the science-based campaign For Life On Earth, with its Beagle Ambassador, rescued laboratory dog Betsy; is shocked to see the continuing harrowing exposés that show thousands of laboratory dogs being intensively bred in the UK, underlining the consequences of the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022; further notes that scientists in the wider scientific community, outside of the animal-based research sector, acknowledge the failure of animal testing in the search for human treatments and cures, and that those experts include pharmaceutical industry scientists, an Editor in Chief of the British Medical Journal, the US-based National Cancer Institute, which states cures for cancer have been lost because studies in rodents were believed, and the Food and Drug Administration, which states that nine-out-of-ten new medicines fail to pass human trials because animals cannot predict responses in humans; also notes Doctors Greek and Shanks' Trans-Species Modelling Theory, founded upon the theory of evolution, which explains why animals fail as predictive models of humans; and calls on the Government to mandate a rigorous public scientific hearing, judged by independent experts from the relevant science fields, to cease the funding of the now-proven failed practice of animal experimentation and increase funding for state-of-the-art human-based research, such as human-on-a-chip and gene-based medicine, to prioritise treatments and cures for human patients, and stop the suffering of innocent laboratory dogs and other animals.

405Barrow Raiders Rugby League Club

Tabled: 13/11/24 Signatories: 2

Michelle Scrogham

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates and commends the hard work of the Barrow Raiders Rugby League Club; notes that Raiders has a long and successful history dating back to its formation in 1875; remembers Willie Horne, pride of the club and one of the best players in the history of rugby; recognises the amount they give back to the community through the Advantage Barrow Raiders Community Foundation; applauds the dedication of the club’s supporters to the Raiders and to the game of rugby; pays tribute to the players, coaches and the committee of the club; and wishes them luck with the 2025 season.

406Implications for rural communities of the Autumn Budget 2024

Tabled: 13/11/24 Signatories: 13

Tim Farron

Robin Swann

Steff Aquarone

Anna Sabine

Claire Young

James MacCleary

That this House recognises the vital contribution that British farmers make to our economy, environment and food security; understands that the farming industry has suffered from the botched trade deals that the former Conservative government negotiated and the poorly managed transition to Environmental Land Management schemes, increases in input costs, workforce shortages, extreme weather events and cuts to their incomes; is therefore deeply concerned by the Government's Budget announcement to cap agricultural property relief to an effective tax rate of 20% on all agricultural assets which are valued at over £1 million; believes that this decision unfairly affects family farms and rural businesses and may force tenant farmers and family farms to stop farming; notes that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ day-to-day spending is set to be cut by 1.9% over the next two years; further notes the Chancellor’s decision to accelerate the phase-out of the direct payments under the Basic Payment Scheme; also believes that these decisions put national food security, the natural environment and the heritage of agricultural communities and the rural economy at greater risk; and urges the Government to reverse its cut to agricultural property relief, raise the farming budget by £1 billion a year and issue an urgent review into the accelerated phase-out of the direct payments under the Basic Payment Scheme, to make sure our farmers can continue to feed the nation and protect our natural environment.

407Celebrating the Royal British Legion in Cumbria

Tabled: 14/11/24 Signatories: 4

Josh MacAlister

Jim Shannon

Tim Farron

Michelle Scrogham

That this House congratulates Royal British Legion volunteers across Cumbria involved in this year’s Poppy Appeal and Remembrance events to recognise and honour the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life; recognises the vital support provided by the Royal British Legion all year round in providing lifelong support to serving and ex-serving personnel and their families, from expert advice and guidance to recovery and rehabilitation, through to transitioning to civilian life; thanks local Royal British Legion branches in Appleby, Brampton, Bransty, Carlisle & Stanwix, Egremont, Harrington, Kendal, Langdales, Penrith, Seascale & District, Sedbergh & District, Tebay, Ullock & District, Wath Brow, Wigton, Windermere and Workington for all their work; and pledges to continue to support our Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and their families.

408Protecting wild sea birds and sand eels

Tabled: 14/11/24 Signatories: 6

Wendy Chamberlain

Adam Dance

Claire Young

Rachael Maskell

Jim Shannon

Richard Burgon

That this House recognises the importance of sand eels to the wider ecosystem, in particular wild seabird populations; acknowledges the puffin and kittiwake bird populations, whose diets largely rely on sand eels, have drastically decreased as a result of industrial sand eel fishing by Sweden and Denmark in the North Sea; notes that a ban on fishing is now in place but notes further with concern growing external pressure to lift the ban; and urges the Government to commit to the fishing ban to ensure our wild sea bird species can continue to thrive.

409Triple negative breast cancer

Tabled: 14/11/24 Signatories: 8

Clive Jones

Claire Young

Adam Dance

Anna Sabine

Dr Roz Savage

Wendy Chamberlain

That this House recognises the significant impact of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), which accounts for around 15% of breast cancer diagnosis but up to 40% of all breast cancer deaths in England; acknowledges that TNBC disproportionately affects people under the age of 40, for whom a diagnosis and treatment can have a profound effect on their lives, employment, financial security and family; further recognises the impact of undergoing treatment for TNBC and the importance of the breast cancer workforce in providing support during this time, particularly Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS); acknowledges the lack of specific data on TNBC in England, making it difficult to identify exactly how many people are living with or dying from TNBC; and calls on the Government to ensure that every person with TNBC has care tailored to their needs, including the assignment of a CNS at diagnosis and that TNBC data is improved in England.

410Children's Grief Awareness Week 2024

Tabled: 14/11/24 Signatories: 12

Christine Jardine

Claire Young

Steve Darling

Adam Dance

Anna Sabine

Dr Roz Savage

That this House recognises Children’s Grief Awareness Week, taking place between 18 and 24 November 2024; notes that this year’s theme is building hope, which includes a focus on building resilience in young people and offering strategies and tools to support them with their bereavement; further notes this year’s policy focus is improving grief education to support children through this difficult time; commends the coalition of charities organising Children’s Grief Awareness Week including Child Bereavement UK, Childhood Bereavement Network and Winston’s Wish; celebrates the work that these charities do to provide specialist support for children, including support groups, hotlines, online chats and email support; and calls on the Government to introduce a new protocol for authorities and public bodies to inform children of local, national and online support services available to children following a bereavement.

411In memory of Jim Farmer

Tabled: 14/11/24 Signatories: 3

Wendy Chamberlain

Brian Leishman

Jim Shannon

That this House expresses its deepest condolences following the death of Jim Farmer, also known as Mr Golf, of St Andrews; acknowledges that he leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a player, coach, and ambassador of the sport; recognises that as the honorary professional at The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, Jim was a prominent figure in Scottish golf for over five decades, and helped many golfers get their careers started; notes that Jim was made a life member of St Andrews Golf Club, served as the captain of the PGA from 2009 to 2011 and was a vital member of the PGA board, as well as representing Great Britain and Ireland in four PGA cups; understands this loss is felt widely and expresses sympathy to his friends and family following the sad news of his passing.