Commons business papers

Contents

Published – Friday 21 March 2025

Early Day Motions tabled on Thursday 20 March 2025

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

976Funding for schools in South Cambridgeshire

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 1

Pippa Heylings

That this House notes with concern that fairer funding is needed for schools in South Cambridgeshire constituency, which have consistently received less schools block funding than the Cambridge region and the rest of England; further notes that there is a difference of over £400 per pupil in schools block funding between South Cambridgeshire and England in the 2024–25 period, as well as in previous years; recognises that schools across the country are facing a funding crisis due to spiralling inflation in their costs; further recognises that school and college funding per pupil should increase above the rate of inflation every year; also notes with concern that mainstream schools’ core funding is due to fall next year to its lowest level in over 15 years; notes that special schools in England have faced £419 million of cuts since 2010, with local authorities expecting to have a cumulative £5 billion SEND deficit by March 2026; highlights that there has been a 72.8% increase in the number of EHC plans in South Cambridgeshire from 2019 to 2024, compared to 62.7% across England, demonstrating the urgent need for fairer funding; and calls on the Government to provide fairer funding for schools in South Cambridgeshire, including significant investment in capital funding and high needs funding.

977Lagan Valley’s Special Olympics gold medallists

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 1

Sorcha Eastwood

That this House sends its biggest congratulations to Caolán McConville and Lucy Best from Lagan Valley on their brilliant achievements at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 in Italy; celebrates Caolán winning gold in the giant slalom and Lucy winning gold in the novice division, which were amazing accomplishments especially given the lack of snow sports facilities in Northern Ireland; recognises their hard work, dedication, and talent in representing their community on the world stage; applauds them for inspiring others to get involved in sport; and wishes them all the best for the future.

978Rory McIlroy's victory at the 2025 Players Championship

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 1

Alex Easton

That this House congratulates Rory McIlroy on his outstanding victory at the 2025 Players Championship, marking his second triumph at this prestigious event; recognises his extraordinary talent, skill and unwavering dedication to the sport of golf, showcased by his exceptional performance in overcoming challenging conditions at Sawgrass; applauds his resilience, remarkable consistency and excellence in securing his 28th PGA Tour title, a testament to his continuing growth as a golfer, affirming that he is now a more complete and accomplished player than at any previous point in his illustrious career; acknowledges the pride and positive recognition he consistently brings to Northern Ireland through his achievements on the international stage; highlights the inspirational role he plays for aspiring athletes around the world, demonstrating the values of determination, professionalism and sportsmanship; and extends best wishes and support for his continued pursuit of further success, particularly in achieving his long-standing goal of completing the career Grand Slam at the Masters in Augusta.

979Scottish Tourism Month 2025

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 1

Jamie Stone

That this House recognises that March is Scottish Tourism Month; notes the importance of the tourism industry in the Highlands, welcoming over two million visitors every year; highlights the significance of the tourism and hospitality sector to the economy and culture of the Far North, bringing in £762 million from international and domestic visitors in 2023; acknowledges that the Highlands possess some of the most unique, diverse, and breathtaking scenery in the United Kingdom; celebrates the hard work of all of those working in the tourism industry; and recommends that all enjoy the beauty and adventure that Scotland has to offer.

980Service of Rob Nixon as Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 1

Amanda Hack

That this House applauds Rob Nixon for his 32 years of service in Leicestershire Police as he announces his retirement; notes that for the last three years Rob has served as Leicestershire Polices’ Chief Constable; commends his tireless commitment to reforming the criminal justice system to best support victims; acknowledges his work in overseeing a restructure of the East Midlands Special Operations Unit; and thanks him for a career defined by a commitment to service, innovation and collaboration.

981Congratulating Alan Hansen on receiving an MBE

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 1

Brian Leishman

That this House congratulates Scottish football legend Alan Hansen on being awarded an MBE for his outstanding services to football and broadcasting; recognises that Hansen, born in Sauchie, Clackmannanshire, began his career with Partick Thistle before becoming one of Scotland’s greatest footballing exports, winning eight First Division titles, three European Cups, and two FA Cups with Liverpool during the 1970s and 1980s; commends his contribution to the Scottish national team, earning 26 caps; acknowledges his highly respected and influential role as a pundit on BBC’s Match of the Day for over two decades, where his expert analysis shaped football coverage and debate in the UK; notes his recovery from serious illness last summer and wishes him continued good health; and celebrates his lasting contribution to Scottish and British football, both on and off the pitch.

982Support for young disabled people after education

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 1

Max Wilkinson

That this House acknowledges the findings in the National Star and the Together Trust’s report entitled What Comes After Education; recognises the report’s key findings, including that young people do not feel listened to, feel worried about leaving education, need access to meaningful activities, want to choose where they live and who they live with, want to be able to work, want meaningful relationships, need reasonable adjustments to attend university, and that transition plans must be proactive and involve the young person and their family; urges the Government to consider the report’s findings when deciding on changes to welfare policy; and calls on the Government to enact the report’s recommendations when enacting welfare changes.

983Fifth Anniversary of Eco Action Maidenhead and Windsor

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 1

Mr Joshua Reynolds

That this House celebrates the fifth anniversary of Eco Action Maidenhead and Windsor, a remarkable community organisation dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and resilience in the Maidenhead and Windsor areas; recognises the invaluable contributions of Eco Action Maidenhead and Windsor in fostering a greener and healthier borough through their diverse initiatives, including the Repair Café, Library of Things, and educational workshops; commends their efforts in bringing local people together to take positive action in the Climate Emergency, helping individuals make small but impactful changes in their lives to combat climate change and loss of biodiversity; applauds their commitment to creating a vibrant and enjoyable space that inspires the community to contribute towards a more sustainable future; and wishes Eco Action Maidenhead and Windsor continued success in their mission to reduce carbon, increase nature, and improve wellbeing for all residents.

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.

906Oversight of homelessness

Tabled: 6/03/25 Signatories: 18

Mr Richard Quigley

Dr Roz Savage

Lee Barron

Peter Lamb

Ellie Chowns

Jim Shannon

That this House notes recent research carried out by Centrepoint into the scale of youth homelessness; is deeply concerned that youth homelessness across the UK has risen by 10% over the past year, with 118,134 young people approaching their local authorities for support; and supports Centrepoint’s recommendations for increased Government oversight of local authority adherence to the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, a youth-focused chapter in the Government's homelessness strategy, and urgent protections in the Homelessness Code of Guidance to ensure all vulnerable young people receive the support to which they are entitled.

919Illegal modification of e-bikes and e-scooters

Tabled: 10/03/25 Signatories: 23

Helen Maguire

Wera Hobhouse

Jim Shannon

Ian Roome

Tristan Osborne

Luke Akehurst

That this House notes with concern the rise in illegally modified e-bikes and e-scooters, which pose serious safety risks to riders and pedestrians; recognises that altering speed and power limits compromises road safety regulations; urges the Government to strengthen enforcement and public awareness; and calls for greater collaboration between authorities and manufacturers to prevent illegal modifications and promote responsible use.

920Community pharmacies

Tabled: 10/03/25 Signatories: 57

Helen Morgan

Jess Brown-Fuller

Dr Danny Chambers

Alison Bennett

Helen Maguire

Martin Wrigley

That this House notes the perilous state of community pharmacies, which are struggling to survive across the country; recognises that pharmacies are at the heart of our communities, are an essential part of health and care services, and are relied upon by millions of people every day; further notes that since 2017, 1,200 pharmacies have closed their doors, with an additional 1,000 pharmacies set to close by 2027; regrets that the last Conservative Government failed to stem pharmacy closures and watched on as services deteriorated; further regrets the Government’s decision to hike employers’ National Insurance contributions (ENICs), which will force pharmacies to lay-off staff and cut services; expresses alarm that, after 11 months, the Government has still not announced a contract for pharmacies for the current financial year; also notes that no funding has been announced for Pharmacy First beyond March, and that this could threaten access to prescribing and primary care; believes that investing in the pharmacy sector and expanding pharmacy services is essential for easing pressure on the rest of the health service, and that an invest-to-save approach in healthcare must include pharmacies as a matter of priority; and calls on the Government to cancel the ENICs increase, deliver fairer funding for pharmacies, stop pharmacy closures, end pharmacy deserts, work with pharmacies to address medicine shortages, and support pharmacists to help save our NHS by being the strong, dynamic and innovative pillar of primary care they can and want to be.

927World Kidney Day 2025

Tabled: 11/03/25 Signatories: 21

Daisy Cooper

Ian Roome

Jim Shannon

Helen Maguire

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Andrew George

That this House acknowledges that World Kidney Day takes place on Thursday 13 March 2025; recognises that an estimated 3.5 million people are living with later stage, 3-5, chronic kidney disease (CKD), although many remain undiagnosed; further recognises the mental health impacts of severe CKD, evidenced through 67% of patients living with CKD reporting symptoms of depression; regrets the financial impacts on patients due to multiple trips to hospital per week for life sustaining treatment, the inability to work regular hours, and increased utility bills due to energy intensive medical equipment negatively impacting patients’ finances; understands that CKD cases are often preventable, and by detecting CKD early, it is possible to slow or stop the progression of the disease, and prevent it from reaching the stages at which it is most severe; commends charities, such as Kidney Care UK, and their work on the Bloody Amazing Kidneys campaign, which raises awareness of the disease and encourages people most at risk of chronic kidney disease to get tested; notes that half of the 135,000 people who took the Bloody Amazing Kidneys campaign kidney health check were at risk of kidney disease, mainly because of high blood pressure; and calls on the Government to prioritise the early detection of kidney disease, and develop guidelines so that other services and support vital for kidney patients, including transport, social care, and mental health support, are uniformly available, with no postcode lotteries.

928Tackling the climate and nature crisis

Tabled: 11/03/25 Signatories: 32

Edward Morello

Pippa Heylings

Ian Roome

Wera Hobhouse

Jim Shannon

Helen Maguire

That this House recognises the urgent need for the UK to take world-leading action on climate change and environmental protection; notes that climate change poses the greatest threat to global stability, public health, and ecological preservation; further notes that the UK has an opportunity to lead in the transition to a net-zero economy, with renewable energy now significantly cheaper than fossil fuels, and calls on the Government to ensure these savings are reflected in energy bills for consumers; expresses deep concern over the UK’s ongoing nature crisis, and calls on the Government to double the size of the Protected Area Network and commit to planting at least 60 million trees annually; urges this Government to strengthen protections, including by passing a Clean Air Act, enhancing the powers of the Office for Environmental Protection, and tackling air pollution; further notes that Dorset’s National Landscape covers 40% of the county, underscoring the need for strong national policies to protect natural landscapes; condemns the ongoing sewage scandal, which has led to devastating pollution of UK rivers and coastal waters, and calls on the Government to impose stricter penalties on water companies that fail to prevent sewage dumping; acknowledges that while other nations contribute heavily to environmental destruction, the UK must take a leadership role in developing solutions and setting high standards for climate and environmental policy; and further urges the Government to take bold, immediate steps to halt the decline of Britain’s natural environment for the benefit of future generations.

929Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Tabled: 11/03/25 Signatories: 14

Jim Shannon

Andrew George

Tom Morrison

Ayoub Khan

Carla Denyer

Ellie Chowns

That this House notes that March is Prostate Cancer awareness month; highlights that prostate cancer has become the most common cancer in England, with a massive 25% increase in cases between 2019 and 2023 and a further 1,100 men being diagnosed each year in Northern Ireland; underlines the importance of awareness campaigns and the difference they have, leading to thousands more men getting an early and lifechanging diagnosis; further notes that despite the huge increase in prostate cancer cases, there is still no national screening programme and as the disease often has no symptoms in its earlier stages, this situation means too many men find out they have cancer only after it’s spread and become harder to treat; and calls upon the Government to update NHS guidelines so that more can be done to increase early diagnosis and save more lives.

936Future of the adoption and special guardianship support fund

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 47

Jess Brown-Fuller

Wera Hobhouse

Adam Dance

Steve Darling

Cameron Thomas

Dr Al Pinkerton

That this House expresses deep concern over the future of the adoption and special guardianship support fund (ASGSF), which is set to expire on 31 March 2025; recognises the vital role the fund plays in providing essential mental health services to adopted children and those under special guardianship orders, supporting nearly half of the work undertaken by organisations such as Beacon House in Chichester; notes with alarm the uncertainty surrounding its continuation, which is causing significant anxiety among families and service providers who rely on this critical support; acknowledges the importance of stable, long-term funding for these vulnerable children to ensure they receive the therapeutic and mental health services they need to thrive; and calls on the Government to provide urgent clarification on the future of the ASGSF and commit to securing its continuation beyond March 2025.

937Keeping transport workers safe

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 40

Steve Witherden

Andy McDonald

John McDonnell

Richard Burgon

Jon Trickett

Grahame Morris

That this House notes with concern the findings of the TSSA union’s latest report entitled Keep transport workers safe – no to abuse and harassment on the transport network; further notes that the report suggests violence and abuse directed at transport workers is endemic and that these workers regularly face racial and sexual harassment and abuse, threats, assault, including assault with weapons; believes that this is unacceptable and that all workers have a right to work in dignity, free from abuse and harassment; further believes that this behaviour is not inevitable, it can be tackled, and that the Government’s public transport reforms are a key opportunity for doing that; and supports the recommendations in the report, including legislative measures to increase the protection of transport workers, an enhanced funding settlement for British Transport Police that allows it to carry out its functions without service cuts or recruitment freezes, stricter penalties for offenders, mandatory reporting of violent and abusive incidents alongside the creation of regulatory bodies to oversee workplace safety specifically in relation to violence and abuse, and guidance for employers on implementing support systems, reporting, training, and a zero-tolerance culture for abuse and harassment on the transport network.

938Provision of essential humanitarian supplies, electricity and water sanitation in Gaza

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 20

Ellie Chowns

Carla Denyer

Siân Berry

Ayoub Khan

Adrian Ramsay

John McDonnell

That this House condemns the Israeli Government’s decision of 3 March 2025 to halt the entry of all humanitarian aid and commercial supplies, including fuel and food, to Gaza, and its decision of 9 March 2025 to cut off electricity to Gaza’s main desalination plant; recognises that these actions violate international humanitarian law and amount to collective punishment of 2.2 million people in Gaza for the terrible crimes committed against Israeli and other citizens by Hamas; records that Gaza was already experiencing a water and sanitation catastrophe following overwhelming damage and destruction of water and sanitation infrastructure due to the Israeli Defence Force’s military operations and the ongoing unlawful blockade; further recognises that Amnesty International has described these actions as inhumane and unlawful; considers these actions to be evidence that the Israeli Government is deliberately imposing conditions of life calculated to bring about the physical destruction of Palestinians in Gaza, an act prohibited under the Genocide Convention; and calls on the UK Government to take steps to prevent genocide, as it is obligated to do, including through implementing a full arms embargo on Israel, working to secure comprehensive sanctions against Israel and other actions to hold Israel accountable for grave breaches of international law.

939Building consensus on a pathway to spending 3% of GDP on defence

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 28

Helen Maguire

Calum Miller

Ian Roome

Adam Dance

Jess Brown-Fuller

Claire Young

That this House recognises the growing security challenges and threats facing the UK and its allies; believes that an increase in UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP as soon as possible is necessary to maintain the UK's military readiness, bolster its deterrence, and support its commitments to global security; and urges the Government to boost defence spending to 2.5% of GDP at the earliest opportunity and to hold cross-party talks to agree a consensus on how to reach 3% GDP spend on defence.

941Sustainable Farming Incentive

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 7

Ellie Chowns

Jim Shannon

Carla Denyer

Bob Blackman

Siân Berry

Iqbal Mohamed

That this House expresses deep concern over the abrupt cancellation of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), which has left thousands of farmers without vital support and clear guidance; notes that the scheme was withdrawn without the promised six weeks’ notice, causing significant uncertainty for those in the final stages of application; further notes that even prior to its cancellation, many farmers faced barriers to accessing the SFI; recognises the critical role of the SFI in supporting sustainable farming, food security, and climate action; calls on the Government to immediately reinstate the SFI to prevent further disruption and provide urgent support to affected farmers while conducting a comprehensive review to improve its accessibility and effectiveness; urges the Government to provide a full and transparent explanation for the cancellation decision and commit to a clear, consultative process for any future changes to farming support schemes; and stresses the need for long-term policy stability to enable farmers to invest confidently in sustainable agricultural practices that protect both the environment and the future of UK food production.

944Wellbeing benefits of outdoor education to young people

Tabled: 13/03/25 Signatories: 22

Tim Farron

Ian Roome

Martin Wrigley

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

Edward Morello

That this House recognises the significant benefits of outdoor learning for children and young people; urges the Secretary of State to undertake a review of the value of those benefits; notes that more time learning outdoors provides an opportunity for children to learn skills and characteristics to cope with many of the societal problems of climate change, worsening child mental health, and high child obesity levels; further notes that there is significant evidence that outdoor learning and youth work enables better engagement with education, builds pro-environmental behaviours from a young age, and establishes team work and resilience in young people; and recognises that these practices build on a long heritage of outdoor learning in the UK.

946SEND in schools

Tabled: 14/03/25 Signatories: 14

Mr Lee Dillon

Wera Hobhouse

Steve Darling

Adam Dance

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Zöe Franklin

That this House recognises the need for further classroom provisions to be implemented for children with SEND; notes with concern that resources for pupils with SEND are very limited and that there is a need for extra school places for such pupils; congratulates Castle School in Newbury for the commencement of a project that will create 32 extra classroom spaces for children with SEND; recognises the vital role that West Berkshire Council played in the investment of this project, highlighting its commitment to improving SEND education; and calls on the Government to support projects such as the one at Castle School to improve education for children with SEND.

949Reductions in welfare spending

Tabled: 14/03/25 Signatories: 21

Siân Berry

Carla Denyer

Kim Johnson

Sorcha Eastwood

Nadia Whittome

Liz Saville Roberts

That this House believes that the welfare system should be based on dignity and respect; further believes that years of damaging austerity inflicted upon public services and welfare provision by previous Conservative Governments has brought our communities to breaking point, with people in receipt of health-related benefits already facing inordinate hardships as a result; notes that the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights has called on the UK Government to take corrective measures to address the immense negative impact of welfare cuts made since 2010; is concerned that 50 per cent of people claiming Universal Credit who have limited capability for work are unable to heat their homes or pay their bills and have low food security; is further concerned that, according to Scope, an added 700,000 disabled households will be pushed into poverty by the cuts rumoured to be set out in the forthcoming Green Paper on welfare reform; considers there is no moral case for making these cuts, the impact of which would be catastrophic for millions of disabled people; calls on the Government to address the root issues that lead to welfare claims, namely housing insecurity, poor quality jobs, huge wage inequality and a soaring mental health crisis; and further calls on the Government not to scapegoat disabled people by cutting the welfare payments on which they depend.

950Royal Television Society and withdrawal of award to journalists in Gaza

Tabled: 14/03/25 Signatories: 13

John McDonnell

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

Llinos Medi

Ann Davies

Neil Duncan-Jordan

That this House expresses its strong concern at the decision by the Royal Television Society to scrap a special recognition award for journalists in Gaza; further expresses its support for the demand by nearly 400 people, including many prominent journalists, for full transparency about how the Society arrived at this decision; and also expresses its regret that this act by the Society displayed an appalling failure to respect the sacrifices made by journalists in Gaza, including the loss of 170 lives.

951Balgove Larder wins Countryside Alliance Award 2025

Tabled: 14/03/25 Signatories: 6

Wendy Chamberlain

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Helen Maguire

Dr Roz Savage

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Balgove Larder on winning this year’s Countryside Alliance Award in the Butcher Category for Scotland; notes that Balgove Larder is a farm shop just outside St Andrews and is a hub for locally reared, grown, caught, handmade and prepared foods; and celebrates all the hard work of the team at Balgove for their dedication and wishes them all the best for the future.

952Banking hubs

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 18

Chris Coghlan

Helen Maguire

Andrew George

Brian Leishman

Steff Aquarone

Caroline Voaden

That this House welcomes the return of in-person banking and cash services, with the opening of a banking hub in the market town of Dorking; notes that banking hubs offer important everyday banking transactions and a community banker for more specific or complex enquiries; acknowledges the contribution of Cash Access UK in supporting communities that have lost access to bank and building society branches; and further notes that more full-service banking hubs are urgently needed across the UK.

953Independent advisory panel on Department for Work and Pensions-related deaths

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 12

John McDonnell

Andrew George

Brian Leishman

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Ayoub Khan

Jim Shannon

That this House is alarmed by the continued use of the fatally flawed work capability assessment, adopted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to limit the access of disabled people to long-term disability benefits and that is linked to a growing public mental health crisis and suicides; is concerned that the chronically ill and disabled community are living in fear of DWP as they are threatened with additional cuts to the welfare budget, guaranteed to cause more human suffering on a vast scale; highlights the devastating consequences of these punitive policies, which have forced people into poverty, mental distress, and, tragically, even to their deaths; and calls on the Government to establish an independent advisory panel with full powers to investigate DWP-related deaths and suicides caused by the DWP's failed systems.

955Carbon monoxide safety

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 5

Jim Shannon

Andrew George

Brian Leishman

Ayoub Khan

Siân Berry

That this House recognises the dozens of British lives lost to carbon monoxide poisoning each year; expresses concern at the underreporting of carbon monoxide incidents, due to low awareness, diagnosis and death classification; notes the additional risks of carbon monoxide poisoning to those travelling abroad, due to weaker appliance standards; identifies the life-saving importance of carbon monoxide alarms, which should be installed wherever combustion appliances are used indoors and taken travelling as a precaution; further notes the concerning availability online of substandard alarms; and urges members of the public to follow UK carbon monoxide alarms regulations and use only British standard-compliant alarms.

95710th anniversary of the English Riviera Film Festival

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 6

Steve Darling

Helen Maguire

Dr Roz Savage

Martin Wrigley

Jim Shannon

Jess Brown-Fuller

That this House congratulates the English Riviera Film Festival on its 10th anniversary and celebrates the dedication, creativity, and hard work of all those involved in making the festival a continued success; recognises the efforts of festival director John Tomkins and the entire festival team, judges, presenters, photographers, and film crews, as well as the Royal Lyceum Theatre for hosting the anniversary awards event; acknowledges the outstanding talent of filmmakers from across the UK and beyond, including those who travelled from Los Angeles to take part; commends the success of Across the Gola by Jude Kiriwald, winner of both Best Documentary Film and the Audience Award for Best Film; and notes the importance of independent film and cultural events in enriching local communities and inspiring future generations of filmmakers.

958Rowcroft Hospice

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 11

Steve Darling

Helen Maguire

Caroline Voaden

Dr Roz Savage

Cameron Thomas

Andrew George

That this House acknowledges the exceptional work of Rowcroft Hospice, an independent charity based in Torquay, providing specialist palliative care services to individuals and families facing life-limiting illnesses across South Devon; commends their comprehensive support, including inpatient care, home care, and bereavement support; celebrates the upcoming Strictly Rowcroft event on 17 May 2025 at the Princess Theatre, Torquay, where 12 local participants will perform Latin and ballroom routines to raise vital funds for the hospice; and notes with admiration that the hon. Member for South Devon, is among the participants, exemplifying commendable community engagement and support for this invaluable institution.

959Honouring the life of Ray Merlin Rutter

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 6

Sarah Dyke

Helen Maguire

Dr Roz Savage

Jim Shannon

Steve Darling

Jeremy Corbyn

That this House celebrates the life and legacy of Ray Merlin Rutter, who has sadly passed away at the age of 77; recognises Merlin’s singular contribution to the Glastonbury community, where he was a beloved and well-known figure, often seen wearing his distinctive blue robes and wizard hat; acknowledges that Merlin offered rune readings to visitors from across the world outside Glastonbury Abbey, enhancing the town’s reputation for inclusivity and community spirit, and appreciates his unwavering commitment to bringing joy to others, making him a key part of Glastonbury’s cultural fabric; expresses gratitude for Merlin’s dedication as a volunteer and advocate for the Love Glastonbury Community Fridge, a vital local initiative that redirects fresh food destined for landfill to community members in need to tackle food poverty whilst simultaneously battling food waste; commends the lasting positive impact that Merlin had on the town through his warmth and kindness; and extends condolences to his family, friends, and the wider community, recognising his presence in Glastonbury will be deeply missed, and his legacy fondly remembered.

960The Alban Bun

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 6

Daisy Cooper

Helen Maguire

Dr Roz Savage

Martin Wrigley

Jim Shannon

Steve Darling

That this House celebrates that for nearly 700 years the Alban Bun has been part of the Easter tradition at St Albans Cathedral; recognises the Alban Bun’s status as the precursor to the famous Hot Cross Bun; notes that Brother Thomas Rocliffe, a monk at the abbey, is said to have developed the original recipe in 1361 and would distribute his buns to the poor on Good Friday; further notes that Brother Thomas Rocliffe developed an original recipe which remains a closely guarded secret; thanks all those involved in baking this year’s buns; further celebrates all the hard work of the team at the Abbot’s Kitchen Cafe in St Albans Cathedral for serving and selling Alban Buns throughout Lent; and encourages hon. Members to visit St Albans and enjoy this most wonderful tradition.

961Open University in Scotland Director Susan Stewart

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 4

Richard Baker

Jim Shannon

Katrina Murray

Chris Law

That this House notes the upcoming departure of Susan Stewart as Director of The Open University in Scotland after nine years at the helm; believes that throughout her tenure Susan has made a substantial contribution not only to the university but the wider higher education sector; commends Susan’s commitment to making educational opportunities available to all; further notes that during Susan’s tenure 84,230 students have studied with The Open University in Scotland; recognises that former hon. Member Jennie Lee generally acknowledged as the founder of The Open University was born in Lochgelly within the now Glenrothes and Mid-Fife constituency; acknowledges Susan’s prior career as an Assistant Producer at STV, Press and Parliamentary Liaison Officer at Strathclyde Regional Council, Head of Media Relations at Glasgow City Council, Depute Head of the Scottish Executive Press Office, First Secretary Scottish Affairs at the British Embassy Washington and Director of Corporate Communications at The University of Glasgow; and thanks Susan for her outstanding public service and wishes her well for the future.

963Chronic urinary tract infections and women's health

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 20

Helen Maguire

Helen Morgan

Dr Roz Savage

Luke Taylor

Andrew George

Wera Hobhouse

That this House recognises the urgent need for improved care and support for those suffering from chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs), a debilitating condition that significantly impacts quality of life; notes with concern the lack of awareness, research, and effective treatment options available to patients; acknowledges that women's health as a whole demands greater attention, funding, research and care from the Government; and calls on the Government to prioritise investment in women's health, improve access to specialist care, and ensure that those affected by chronic UTIs or other debilitating conditions receive the diagnosis and treatment they deserve.

964Support for Saturday clubs

Tabled: 18/03/25 Signatories: 7

Martin Wrigley

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

Steve Darling

That this House recognises the important work that Saturday clubs perform for vulnerable young people and their families; further recognises the need for Saturday clubs such as the Orchard Saturday Club to receive proper funding settlements; and also recognises the important work that Saturday clubs perform in training people on safeguarding, first aid and specialist skills.

965Coalfields Regeneration Trust funding

Tabled: 18/03/25 Signatories: 34

Grahame Morris

Elaine Stewart

Ian Lavery

Adam Jogee

Paul Davies

Steve Yemm

That this House recognises the invaluable contribution of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) in supporting economic regeneration, employment, and growth in coalfield communities across the UK; notes that the CRT was established in 1999 by the then Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott to address the economic and social challenges resulting from the closure of coal mines in the 1980/90s; acknowledges that the CRT received direct Government funding between 1999 and 2015 and has since developed an innovative community wealth-building model that reinvests rental income from industrial units into local economic and social initiatives; further notes that the CRT is requesting £10 million per annum in capital funding over the next five years to develop a minimum of two industrial unit projects per year, providing 500,000 square feet of new industrial space and generating over 1,000 new jobs upon completion, alongside hundreds of construction jobs and additional supply chain benefits; further recognises that this investment would generate up to £4 million annually in self-sustaining revenue for coalfield communities; highlights the independent evaluation by the Centre for Local Economic Strategies which found that the CRT delivers an annual economic benefit of £413 million, generates £7.50 in local community returns for every £1 invested, and provides £35.4 million in annual cost savings to the state; and urges the Government to approve the CRT’s funding request as a key part of its mission to bring growth to every part of the UK and as part of the Government’s neighbourhoods and communities strategy.

968Arbroath's award-winning black pudding

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 3

Stephen Gethins

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

That this House congratulates DH Robertson in Arbroath on winning this year's UK's Champion of Champions for black pudding; notes that DH Robertson is a family business and has used Scottish ingredients to create their award-winning black pudding; and celebrates all the hard work of the team at DH Robertson and wishes them all the best for the future.

969Grace Collective production of Oor Hoose O'er There

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 3

Katrina Murray

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Kirkintilloch based Grace Collective on their performance of Oor Hoose O’er There in Hillhead Community Centre on Friday 14 March 2025; and notes that this was the culmination of a project which started with a group of people sharing lived experiences as a therapy developed into a full scale production, written, performed and produced by members with the support of Creative Spark, Grace staff and volunteers.

970International Space Station

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 5

Alex Brewer

Jim Shannon

Jess Brown-Fuller

Adam Dance

Ian Roome

That this House congratulates John McFall of North East Hampshire constituency for becoming the first person with a physical disability to be cleared to fly to the International Space Station; notes that the UK and Europe are leading the way in their commitment to open opportunities for all; celebrates John’s achievements including a bronze medal for sprinting at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games, being an orthopaedic surgeon attached to the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, and his selection to join European Space Agency’s Reserve Astronaut Corps; and recognises John’s dedication to challenging society's assumptions around disability.

971Bank closures

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 8

Alex Brewer

Wera Hobhouse

Steve Darling

Jim Shannon

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

That this House notes with concern that Santander is set to close its Fleet High Street branch at the end of June 2025;believes that this closure, along with others across the country, will greatly impact many in our community who rely on high street bank branches for essential services, particularly the elderly, disabled, and those without transport; further notes that many residents from surrounding rural villages already face significant challenges in accessing banking services, and that this closure will exacerbate those difficulties; acknowledges the disproportionate impact of branch closures on rural communities, where public transport options are limited and alternative banking facilities are scarce; and calls on the Secretary of State to urgently engage with banks and local MPs to prevent further branch closures before the establishment of adequate banking hubs in these areas.

972Newcastle United FC's footballing achievement

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 11

Chi Onwurah

Mary Glindon

Mrs Emma Lewell-Buck

Mrs Sharon Hodgson

Kate Osborne

Ian Lavery

That this House recognises Newcastle United Football Club’s achievement in winning their first domestic trophy in 70 years; commends the performance of the players, the contribution of manager Eddie Howe and his team, the passion and patience of the fans; and notes the lasting positive impact winning the Carabao Cup will have on the city of Newcastle and Newcastle United supporters all over the world.

973St Patrick's Challenge Trophy, Northern Ireland Volleyball

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 2

Carla Lockhart

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Northern Ireland Volleyball on their outstanding achievement in retaining the St Patrick's Challenge Trophy on 15 March 2025, an annual competition between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; acknowledges the triumph of the four Northern Ireland National Teams, who defeated their counterparts by three matches to one; recognises that many of the talented athletes involved are from Upper Bann constituency and serve as excellent role models; praises the exceptional work of the Northern Ireland Volleyball Federation, whose volunteers work tirelessly to raise the profile of volleyball, introduce more people to the sport, and prepare squads for international competition; commends the fast, skilful, and competitive nature of volleyball, a sport that is accessible to all and played with great respect and spirit; notes the successful hosting of these international fixtures at South Lakes Leisure Centre, and congratulates Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for their support in hosting the event; encourages the council to continue backing Northern Ireland Volleyball; further recognises the sold-out nature of the event and looks forward to the planned 5 Nation Volleyball Championship at the venue in June 2026; and calls on SportNI to continue its support for Northern Ireland Volleyball in helping the sport to grow and reach its full potential.

974Personal Independence Payment

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 6

Ayoub Khan

Shockat Adam

Jim Shannon

Jeremy Corbyn

Siân Berry

Chris Law

That this House strongly condemns the recent decision by His Majesty's Government to implement £5 billion cuts to Personal Independence Payment, a vital lifeline for individuals with disabilities, chronic health issues, and mental health problems across the United Kingdom; believes that such measures unfairly target some of the most vulnerable people in our society, contravening the principle that those with the broadest shoulders should contribute more; is deeply disappointed that a Labour Government would enact policies that appear to punish rather than support those in need of assistance, contradicting core Labour values of social justice and equality; further believes that parliamentarians have a duty to uphold the dignity and well-being of all citizens, ensuring that adequate support systems are available for the most disadvantaged; therefore urges the Government to reconsider its approach, prioritising the protection of essential support; and calls for an immediate reversal of these cuts and the implementation of a fairer taxation system where contributions are aligned with the ability to pay, ensuring that those facing the greatest financial challenges are not left to bear the heaviest burdens.

975DARC in Wales

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 4

Liz Saville Roberts

Helen Maguire

Jeremy Corbyn

Siân Berry

That this House notes with deep concern the proposed US-UK-Australian military radar project, DARC (Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability), which would install 27 21m-high, 15m-wide parabolic radar dishes within sight of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park; believes this would severely harm the visual landscape, local tourism, and the internationally recognised natural ecology of the area; further notes the concerns regarding potential health risks posed by radiofrequency signals, as indicated by scientific studies, on residential populations located less than a kilometre from the site; highlights that DARC, as part of the AUKUS Treaty, is in violation of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty’s prohibition on the national appropriation of space and undermines international law; warns that the deployment of anti-satellite weaponry, for which DARC is a crucial targeting device, threatens to destabilise the civilian satellite network by generating hazardous space debris of a volatile and unpredictable nature which increases the probability of damage to essential infrastructure; urges the Government to recognise that DARC lacks strategic military necessity compared to other priorities; and calls on the government to permanently withdraw its planning application for the Pembrokeshire site and any alternative UK location.