Published – Thursday 26 June 2025

New EDMs

155350th anniversary of Bethany Free Presbyterian Church, Portadown

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Carla Lockhart

That this House congratulates Bethany Free Presbyterian Church in Portadown on reaching its 50th anniversary; acknowledges the faithful witness and spiritual leadership the Church has provided to the local community over five decades; pays tribute to the ministry of the late Rev. Kenneth Elliott, whose foundational work and vision were instrumental in establishing and growing the congregation; recognises the continuing commitment and leadership of the current minister, Rev. Darryl Abernethy, under whose guidance the church remains steadfast in its gospel witness; and commends the congregation for its unwavering dedication to the preaching of the Word of God, its service to the people of Portadown, and its ongoing role in the life and ministry of the Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster.

1554Aberdeen International Airport, winner of Airport of the Year

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Stephen Flynn

That this House congratulates Aberdeen International Airport on being named Airport of the Year at the Scottish Transport Awards; understands that in order to receive the prestigious award from the Scottish Transport Awards, the airport demonstrated a commitment to sustainability, innovation, community engagement and providing a high-quality service to all passengers; commends the hard work and dedication of all frontline and behind-the-scenes staff at Aberdeen International Airport; and wishes them the very best for the future.

1555Camstradden Primary School City of Dance Finals

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Patricia Ferguson

That this House congratulates the Street Freakz dance team of Camstradden Primary School in Glasgow West constituency on winning the Premiership Award at the Glasgow City of Dance Finals; commends Miss Murray for her hard work preparing the team and the pupils for their passion, dedication and success; notes that this is the second year in a row that Camstradden Primary’s team has reached the finals of the competition; thanks City of Dance and Physical Education, Physical Activity and School Sport Glasgow for hosting a successful competition developing young people’s confidence, creativity and performance skills; and congratulates all of the young people who took part in the competition.

1556Waiting times for child and adolescent mental health services in Wiltshire

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Gibson

That this House expresses concern that, according to data provided in response to Written Parliamentary Question 59837, 2,565 children and young people in Wiltshire were not seen within four weeks of being referred to NHS mental health services during the 2024-25 period; notes that of the 6,755 referrals for under-18s, only 2,900 were seen within the recommended 28-day timeframe, while 1,290 referrals ended without contact; further notes the importance of early intervention in mental health to prevent escalation and harm; recognises the strain placed on families and NHS services when timely support is unavailable; believes that children and young people deserve prompt and effective access to mental health care; and supports measures to improve provision, including increased investment in services, regular mental health check-ups for young people, community-based mental health hubs, and the placement of qualified mental health professionals in every school.

1557Burial of stillborn babies in unmarked graves

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Gibson

That this House expresses its deep concern at the revelation that an estimated 89,000 stillborn babies were buried in unmarked communal graves in the United Kingdom up until the late 1980s; regrets that in many cases, bereaved parents were neither informed of their child’s burial location nor given the opportunity to participate in or consent to arrangements; acknowledges the distress this has caused to families who were often denied the chance to grieve or commemorate their loss; commends the individuals and organisations who have worked to raise awareness of this issue and support those affected; believes that this historic practice represents a failure to treat stillbirth with the dignity and compassion it deserves; and calls on the Government to ensure that all available burial records are preserved and made accessible, to promote national recognition of the impact on bereaved families, to make it easier for families and communities to mark and memorialise the sites of historic mass graves, and to work with relevant organisations to support remembrance and healing.

1558Scottish Album of the Year Award and Dundee

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Chris Law

That this House welcomes the announcement that the Scottish Album of the Year Award will be hosted in Dundee in 2025, 2026 and 2027; notes that the event in Dundee’s Caird Hall in November this year will be the first time the event will be hosted outside of Scotland's Central Belt; recognises that this announcement has only been made possible through a three-year partnership between the Scottish Music Industry Association and Leisure and Culture Dundee, V&A Dundee and Unesco Dundee City of Design; further recognises the important role that the host venue, Caird Hall, has played in the history of music in both Tayside and Scotland, bringing acts to Dundee through the years including The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, David Bowie and Led Zeppelin; recognises that nominations for the coveted prize will open on 1 July; and wishes the organisers of the event and all eventual nominees all the best ahead of the event on 20 November later this year.

1559Winners of the Scottish Charity Awards 2025

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Mr Angus MacDonald

That this House congratulates all winners and finalists of the Scottish Charity Awards 2025, organised by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations to celebrate outstanding contributions to Scotland’s voluntary sector; notes that the 2025 shortlist included 41 individuals and organisations from charities, social enterprises and community groups across the country; further congratulates Juliet Blackie of Mallaig RNLI on being named Volunteer of the Year, recognising her dedication and transformational leadership of the Mallaig lifeboat station shop, which she has brought to six-day opening, recruited eight new volunteers for, and helped increase income by over £32,000 since 2022; also congratulates Louise Anderson of New Start Highland on winning Employee of the Year, highlighting her life-changing work as Positive Activities Coordinator, supporting over 30 people in recovery through pathways into education, employment, housing and sobriety; and commends Rape and Sexual Abuse Service Highland for being Highly Commended in the Charity of the Year (turnover over £500,000) category, recognising its vital work across the Highlands in supporting survivors and challenging sexual violence.

156090th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Chris Law

That this House congratulates His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama ahead of his 90th birthday on 6 July 2025; recognises this will mark the start of the Year of Compassion, celebrating the inspiring role that the Dalai Lama has played in the Tibetan people’s peaceful struggle for an end to the Tibet-China conflict; further recognises this will be a joyous occasion for Tibetan communities around the world, as they commemorate the Dalai Lama’s life, legacy, and profound spiritual and political leadership; notes the Dalai Lama has been recognised by a number of bodies and organisations for his role in Tibetan life, not least his award of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989; wishes all in the Tibetan community both in the UK and abroad well ahead of the celebration events later this year; further notes the upcoming conference of religious heads and representatives of Tibetan Buddhist traditions, in which the Dalai Lama is expected to offer guidance on the matter of his reincarnation; and believes it is for the people of Tibet and for those in the Tibetan diaspora to decide upon the future reincarnation of the Dalai Lama.

1561Naloxone

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Adam Dance

That this House recognises the importance of naloxone as a lifesaving medication that temporarily reverses the effects of an opioid overdose; expresses alarm at the broad rise of deaths involving opioids in recent years; acknowledges that an addiction to drugs is not a lifestyle choice, nor a moral flaw, but a chronic life-threatening health condition; notes that naloxone, administered as a nasal spray or injection, instantly and temporarily blocks the effects of the opioid taken, which gives enough time to call emergency services and for them to arrive, making it lifesaving; celebrates that naloxone can be legally administered by anyone in the UK in an emergency situation and recent progress in expanding access to naloxone; accepts that more needs to be done to urgently increase access to naloxone, train more first responders, and increase public awareness of naloxone; and therefore calls on the Government to ensure that naloxone is made available at key public locations, a national naloxone programme is introduced, and a national public awareness campaign is commissioned.

1562Plant Health

Tabled: 25/06/25 Signatories: 1

Jim Allister

That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty, praying that the Phytosanitary Conditions (Amendment) Regulations 2025 (SI, 2025, No. 559), dated 7 May 2025, a copy of which was laid before this House on 8 May, be annulled.

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.

1447Christian persecution in Niger State, Nigeria

Tabled: 12/06/25 Signatories: 7

Brendan O'Hara

Andrew George

Graham Leadbitter

Jim Shannon

Mr Gregory Campbell

Ellie Chowns

Chris Law

That this House notes with extreme concern, reports of recent widespread jihadist-driven attacks in Nigeria, including the violent invasion of Zagaga, Chibani, and Kuch communities in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State on 27 May 2025; further notes that the attacks resulted in the deaths of many villagers and the abduction of others; and calls on His Majesty’s Government and the Nigerian authorities to take more effective action to protect vulnerable communities and to bring to justice those responsible.

1458Disconnection of stolen phones

Tabled: 13/06/25 Signatories: 17

Martin Wrigley

Ayoub Khan

Helen Maguire

Liz Jarvis

Mr Angus MacDonald

Adam Dance

Sarah Gibson

That this House calls for an immediate crackdown on phone theft by forcing big tech & phone companies to disconnect mobile phones that have been stolen and on the International Mobile Equipment Identity blacklist; notes the public discontent with big tech companies failing to enforce easy safeguards towards protecting customers from phone theft, as companies such as Apple and Google continue to make profit and continue to sell more phones because these phones are not removed from the system.

1461Kim Little, Arsenal and UEFA Women's Champions League

Tabled: 16/06/25 Signatories: 3

Seamus Logan

Graham Leadbitter

Chris Law

That this House congratulates the success of Kim Little MBE, Captain of Arsenal Women, on her team's 1-0 victory against Barcelona in the final of the UEFA Women's Champions League; notes that this victory marked an incredible achievement for a team who were not expected to win; recognises that Little, who was raised in Mintlaw in Aberdeenshire, spent her early formative football years playing for Mintlaw Primary School and Mintlaw Boys Club and as a teenager for Buchan Girls and Mintlaw Academy; further notes that she began her senior career in football at Hibernian, winning the Scottish Premier League, the Scottish Women’s Cup and the Scottish Premier League Cup with this club in the 2006-2007 season, and continued with Arsenal as a two time winner of the Premier League National Division, five time League Cup winner, three time Women’s Super League and FA Cup winner and Champions League winner; celebrates her notable successes while representing Scotland at senior international level, scoring Scotland’s first hat trick in 2012 and for being one of two Scots selected to represent Great Britain at the 2012 and 2020 Olympics; wishes her and her team every future success as they rightly take their place as legends in the history of the Club and of this League; and further wishes Kim Little continued success in the future as Captain.

1462150th Anniversary of the Founding of Bracoden School, Banffshire

Tabled: 16/06/25 Signatories: 8

Seamus Logan

Jim Shannon

Kirsty Blackman

Graham Leadbitter

Stephen Gethins

Brendan O'Hara

Chris Law

That this House congratulates the headteacher, staff and pupils of Bracoden School, Gardenstown, Banffshire, on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the founding of the school in 1875; notes that the school’s initial focus was on teaching traditional subjects to prepare students for local vocations, including navigation, reflecting Gardenstown’s long maritime heritage; understands the school has played a key role in preserving local history, from working with the local community on wartime projects to partnering with local historians publishing a history of the school with proceeds going to local good causes; recognises the school’s achievement in 2022 in being awarded an Excellence in Professional Learning Award for Schools and Learning Communities by the General Teaching Council for Scotland; further notes that throughout its history, Bracoden School has demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a firm commitment to both scholastic achievement and personal development; and wishes the headteacher, staff and pupils continued success in the future.

1469Hospitalfield Arts garden award at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Tabled: 16/06/25 Signatories: 5

Stephen Gethins

Jim Shannon

Graham Leadbitter

Dave Doogan

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Arbroath charity, Hospitalfield Arts, on their recent award of a silver-gilt medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show; commends renowned garden designer Nigel Dunnett on his award-winning design of the garden focusing on strategic planting; notes that the design of the garden was inspired by the coastal location of Hospitalfield Arts and features a dramatic, highly sculptural dune landscape; highlights the efforts of all involved and gives thanks to Lucy Byatt, Director of Hospitalfield; and looks forward to the relocation of the garden at Ladyloan Primary School in Arbroath to inspire the next generation of artists.

1473Three Dads Walking

Tabled: 16/06/25 Signatories: 16

Llinos Medi

Ann Davies

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

Mr Gregory Campbell

Jim Shannon

Tonia AntoniazziAlex EastonSarah DykeColum EastwoodRachel Gilmour

That this House applauds the outstanding efforts of the Three Dads Walking as they embark on an eight-day walking challenge to raise money for services dedicated to the prevention of young suicide; notes that on the eve of Father’s Day, Andy Airey from Cumbria, Mike Palmer from Ynys Môn, and Tim Owen from Norfolk began a 130-mile trek along the Ynys Môn Coastal Path; commends the three for walking in memory of their daughters Sophie Airey, Beth Palmer, and Emily Owen; further notes that the three are aiming to raise £30,000 for PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide, a charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people; highlights that the charity has warned of cuts to its HOPELINE247 service, which provides a vital helpline for children and young people in crisis; is deeply concerned that suicide is the biggest killer of those under 35 in the UK with around 200 teenagers take their own lives ever year; and praises Andy, Mike and Tim for advocating for suicide prevention measures and raising awareness over this important issue.

1479High street gambling reform

Tabled: 16/06/25 Signatories: 19

Dawn Butler

Jim Shannon

Paulette Hamilton

Ms Diane Abbott

Ellie Chowns

Alison Hume

Sammy WilsonRuth CadburyMartin Rhodes

That this House notes with concern that local authorities currently lack sufficient powers to regulate the spread of gambling premises due to the statutory aim to permit duty set out in the Gambling Act 2005; further notes that this duty restricts councils’ ability to reject applications for new gambling venues even in areas already saturated with such establishments or where serious concerns have been raised by residents, police, or public health officials; is alarmed by the clustering of gambling venues in economically challenged communities, where they contribute to rising levels of poverty, debt, and mental health problems; recognises that gambling harm is a growing public health issue, with an estimated annual cost of £1.77 billion to the NHS and related services; and acknowledges the need for greater local democratic control over licensing decisions to better reflect the needs and wellbeing of local communities.

1484Mandatory data collection of child sexual offenders

Tabled: 17/06/25 Signatories: 8

Rupert Lowe [R]

Mr Peter Bedford

Jim Allister

Alex Easton

Sir Gavin Williamson

Jim Shannon

Sammy Wilson

That this House notes with deep concern the continued failures in data collection related to child sexual abuse, particularly in cases involving group-based exploitation; recognises that accurate and consistent demographic data is essential for identifying patterns, developing prevention strategies and restoring public confidence; expresses concern that a significant number of local authorities and police forces do not currently record or report the nationality, religion, ethnicity, or immigration status of perpetrators; further notes that a recent audit conducted by the independent Rape Gang Inquiry found that only 9 out of 379 councils were able to provide such data; believes that this lack of transparency hinders justice and accountability; and therefore calls on His Majesty’s Government to introduce mandatory, standardised national data collection for all agencies involved in safeguarding, requiring the recording of the nationality, religion, ethnicity and immigration status of all those convicted of, or under investigation for, offences relating to the sexual exploitation and abuse of children.

1488Harmful chemicals in period products

Tabled: 17/06/25 Signatories: 38

Martin Wrigley

Tom Morrison

Wendy Chamberlain

Claire Hanna

Sorcha Eastwood

Sarah Dyke

Sammy WilsonSarah Gibson

That this House notes that recent testing by PAN UK and the Women’s Environmental Network found glyphosate, a probable carcinogen, in period projects; further notes that tests on period products over the last 20 years have also found them to include a range of potentially harmful chemicals, heavy metals and pesticides; notes that research has shown period products to be an important and much overlooked source of exposure to endocrine disrupting substances for women, girls and those who menstruate; expresses concern that period products remain largely unregulated; calls on the Government to deliver robust testing of period products and to introduce a legal requirement for manufacturers to disclose the ingredients and additives used in their period products; and further calls for all period products provided in schools and public facilities to meet high standards for safety and health.

1491Scottish bathing water quality

Tabled: 17/06/25 Signatories: 8

Dave Doogan

Jim Shannon

Graham Leadbitter

Brendan O'Hara

Seamus Logan

Pete Wishart

Chris Law

That this House celebrates the record number of designated bathing waters in Scotland now rated Excellent for water quality; welcomes the start of the 2025 bathing water season; commends the Scottish Environment Protection Agency for its science-led approach to monitoring and regulation; notes the 10th anniversary of the first samples taken under the revised Bathing Water Directive, which introduced more rigorous water quality standards and enhanced public information; recognises the key role of investment in wastewater infrastructure, improved agricultural practices and targeted pollution control in water quality management; and acknowledges the importance of clean bathing waters to public health, wellbeing, tourism and community pride.

1492Military escalation between Israel and Iran

Tabled: 17/06/25 Signatories: 9

Brian Leishman

John McDonnell

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Jeremy Corbyn

Apsana Begum

Ellie Chowns

Shockat Adam

That this House expresses immense concern at the escalating military confrontation between Israel and Iran, which has already claimed hundreds of civilian lives and risks igniting a full-scale regional war; notes that both the Israeli Government and Iranian regime have long records of repressing dissent, violating international law, and disregarding civilian life; believes this crisis stems from militarism, occupation, foreign interference, and a collective failure to prioritise diplomacy, justice, and human rights; recognises that the recent escalation has been fuelled by Israel’s occupation of Palestinian land, repeated unilateral cross-border military actions and growing defiance of international laws; condemns the Iranian regime’s repression of its people, persecution of women and minorities, and destabilising regional role – including its military support for armed terrorist groups and repeated threats against Israel; further notes with alarm mounting evidence that elements within the Israeli state view this escalation as part of a wider strategy to overthrow the Iranian government – an ambition that risks broader regional conflict and destabilisation, with potentially severe consequences for civilian populations; further condemns the UK’s complicity through continued arms sales and diplomatic cover, enabling not only the collective punishment of Palestinians but now broader regional escalation; calls on the Government to demand an immediate ceasefire, end arms sales to all parties involved and support diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions; and reaffirms this House’s commitment to a foreign policy based on international law, human rights, and the pursuit of lasting peace and dignity for all peoples in the region.

1503UK trade with illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories

Tabled: 18/06/25 Signatories: 19

Mr Will Forster

Siân Berry

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Wera Hobhouse

Martin Wrigley

Andrew George

Shockat Adam

That this House notes with grave concern the recent announcement of 22 new Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, in clear violation of international law; further notes that trade with illegal settlements contributes to their entrenchment and expansion, undermining the prospects for a just and lasting peace; believes that the UK must uphold its commitment to international law and the rights of the Palestinian people; therefore calls on the Government to introduce legislation prohibiting trade between the UK and illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories; and urges all UK companies to ensure their supply chains are not linked to or profiting from illegal settlements.

1507Democracy in Hong Kong

Tabled: 18/06/25 Signatories: 26

Calum Miller

Luke Taylor

Wera Hobhouse

Martin Wrigley

Tom Gordon

Andrew George

Jim AllisterMr Gregory Campbell

That this House believes this country has a proud record of standing up for Hong Kongers; condemns the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)’s interference in Hong Kong’s democracy, including through the 2020 National Security Law; further condemns the CCP’s efforts to intimidate Hong Kongers living abroad who are critical of the Chinese state; notes with grave concern that according to the Political Prisoner Database there are now over 1,600 political prisoners held in China, including Jimmy Lai; views as abhorrent CCP-sponsored efforts to threaten, intimidate and place bounties on democracy activists from Hong Kong who live in the UK through the distribution of posters and letters on UK soil to neighbours; further condemns actions by the Hong Kong authorities to intimidate and imprison the family members of Hong Kong democracy activists living in the UK; calls on the Government to put in place further mechanisms for pro-democracy Hong Kong activists to receive specific support in relation to allegations of intimidation by CCP-linked groups; further calls on the Government to support police training to help better identify cases of state-sponsored political intimidation; also calls on the Government to fill the gaps in the British National (Overseas) (BNO) visa scheme and to extend BNO integration funding for Hong Kongers in the UK for the duration of the Parliament; and calls for the inclusion of employees of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London on the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme.

1508Methanol poisoning, UK traveller safety and education in schools

Tabled: 18/06/25 Signatories: 25

Tom Morrison

Martin Wrigley

Andrew George

Adam Dance

Ellie Chowns

Helen Maguire

Cameron Thomas

That this House is deeply concerned by ongoing deaths and serious injuries among UK nationals overseas caused by methanol poisoning, where industrial alcohol is unknowingly consumed in counterfeit or contaminated spirits; notes that methanol poisoning has occurred in countries including Indonesia, Laos, India, Brazil, Greece and within Europe; further notes the 2023 findings of coroner Alison Mutch following the death of a British citizen in Bali, highlighting low public awareness, inadequate Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office guidance and the lack of a UK Government campaign; regrets that UK travel advice requires users to navigate multiple sections and uses insufficiently strong language; contrasts this with the Australian Government’s proactive approach to warning its citizens; recognises that methanol poisoning symptoms are often mistaken for ordinary alcohol intoxication, delaying life-saving treatment; is concerned that travel industry guidance, including that from ABTA, remains minimal; believes stronger public health messaging is urgently required, including clearer online advice, outreach through universities and GPs, and warning materials akin to cigarette packaging campaigns; supports the use of student ambassadors, visual media and real-life case studies to raise awareness; calls on the Government and travel industry to adopt a more robust and visible approach to informing travellers about the dangers of methanol poisoning and staying safe; and further believes that education on this should begin earlier, and supports the inclusion of methanol poisoning awareness within the PSHE curriculum in secondary schools, supported by centrally developed teaching materials and audio-visual resources, to ensure young people are better equipped before travelling.

1522Press ownership by foreign states

Tabled: 20/06/25 Signatories: 26

Max Wilkinson

Dr Roz Savage

Wera Hobhouse

Mr Will Forster

Helen Maguire

Liz Jarvis

Calum MillerSarah GibsonSarah Olney

That this House recognises that a free press is the cornerstone of our democracy; understands that holding power to account relies on journalistic independence and editorial freedom; notes with concern that foreign state ownership of national newspapers risks allowing foreign states to undermine the independence and integrity of British journalism; further recognises that the Government’s proposed 15% non-cumulative threshold opens the door to foreign state influence in our press; and calls on the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport to remove the right of foreign states to own any part of the British news media ecosystem immediately.

1529Gurkha pensions

Tabled: 20/06/25 Signatories: 15

David Chadwick

Dr Roz Savage

Wera Hobhouse

Mr Will Forster

Helen Maguire

Sarah Dyke

Mr Gregory Campbell

That this House honours the extraordinary loyalty and service of the Gurkha soldiers who have fought alongside British forces for over 200 years; notes with deep concern that thousands of Gurkha veterans who retired before 1 July 1997 remain trapped on inferior pensions under the outdated Gurkha Pension Scheme, leaving many in poverty here in the UK, including in communities such as Brecon where Gurkha veterans and their families have made an enduring contribution; condemns this longstanding injustice, which denies these veterans the full recognition and support they deserve; rejects the Government’s current transfer offer as wholly inadequate and financially punitive; believes that all Gurkhas, regardless of date of retirement, should be granted full access to the Armed Forces Pension Scheme on an equal, year-for-year basis; further believes that this ongoing discrimination against Gurkha veterans is a dereliction of the UK's moral duty under the Armed Forces Covenant; and calls on the Government to act without further delay to end this injustice and ensure that every Gurkha veteran receives the full and equal pension they have earned through their loyal service to the United Kingdom.

1530Role of relationship education in preventing violence against women and girls

Tabled: 20/06/25 Signatories: 29

Helen Maguire

Dr Roz Savage

Wera Hobhouse

Claire Young

Mr Will Forster

Martin Wrigley

Sarah GibsonZöe Franklin

That this House recognises the critical role of comprehensive, age-appropriate relationship education in preventing violence against women and girls (VAWG); notes with concern that many young people are growing up in environments where harmful and misogynistic messages are prevalent both online and offline; acknowledges that without early, preventative education focusing on respect, consent, boundaries, and recognising coercive behaviour, efforts to combat VAWG address symptoms rather than root causes; highlights that one in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, with those aged 16–19 being most at risk; further notes that despite increasing political attention, sexual assault rates among women have risen in recent years; believes that embedding relationship education in schools is vital to challenge harmful norms and promote healthy relationships; and calls on the Government to incentivise schools to extend Relationships, Sex and Health Education lessons to include 16-18 year-olds and invest in training for school staff to better understand the online spaces that young people navigate today.

1531Local authority funding

Tabled: 20/06/25 Signatories: 25

Vikki Slade

Tom Morrison

Calum Miller

Dr Roz Savage

Wera Hobhouse

Claire Young

Sarah Gibson

That this House is deeply concerned by the crisis in local government funding and the findings of the Thirty-First Report of the Committee of Public Accounts of Session 2024–25 on Local Government Financial Sustainability, published on 18 June 2025, and the estimate that local authority deficits will reach between £2.9bn and £3.9bn per year by 2027–28; regrets that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government cannot guarantee local government funding increases will result in improved outcomes for residents; understands that a reduction in local authority funding directly impacts the provision of social care, SEND and vital local public services; is shocked that neither the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government nor HM Treasury undertook an assessment ahead of increases to national insurance contributions on the impact to local authority budgets; notes that the crisis in local government funding was exacerbated by the previous Government which ultimately failed to fix the social care crisis; recognises the burdens on local government budgets are compounded by the Government’s plans for local government re-organisation; and calls on the Government to publish a proper plan to end the crises in social care and SEND provision which are pushing councils to the brink of collapse and ensure local authorities have the resources they require to provide the vital local public services communities deserve and desperately need.

1532Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust

Tabled: 23/06/25 Signatories: 5

Zöe Franklin

Jim Shannon

Mr Will Forster

Mr Angus MacDonald

Sarah Dyke

That this House congratulates Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust on being rated outstanding for leadership in its latest report from the Care Quality Commission; commends chief executive Louise Stead and her senior team for delivering clear strategic direction, compassionate leadership, and a strong culture of staff engagement and improvement; notes that the Trust’s leadership was recognised for its inclusivity, responsiveness, and focus on patient-centred care; highlights that the Trust has set a national example for good governance, quality improvement, and values-led leadership; and calls on the Government to ensure NHS Trusts are empowered and supported to adopt similarly effective leadership models for the benefit of patients and staff across the country.

1533International Women in Engineering Day

Tabled: 23/06/25 Signatories: 13

Sarah Dyke

Mr Lee Dillon

Helen Maguire

Jim Shannon

Wera Hobhouse

Martin Wrigley

Sarah GibsonMr Will Forster

That this House celebrates International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), held annually on 23 June, to raise the profile of women in engineering and inspire more young women and girls to consider careers in the sector; recognises that INWED, brought to life by the Women’s Engineering Society, celebrates its 12th anniversary in 2025 under the theme TogetherWeEngineer, promoting inclusion and diversity across the engineering industry; acknowledges with concern that women remain significantly underrepresented in engineering, with women making up only 16.5% of the workforce in 2022 falling to 15.7% in 2024, with many women aged 35 to 44 leaving the profession; believes that INWED plays a vital role in increasing the visibility of women engineers and closing the skills gap through celebrating the achievements of women; and calls on the Government to support policies and educational practices that promote gender equality, whilst showcasing role models to increase the participation of women in engineering and wider STEM careers.

15369th anniversary of the EU referendum

Tabled: 23/06/25 Signatories: 4

Jim Allister

Jim Shannon

Alex Easton

Mr Gregory Campbell

That this House deplores that nine years on from the Brexit referendum, the greatest democratic mandate in the nation’s history, Brexit has still not been delivered for Northern Ireland and that instead the United Kingdom has been partitioned by a foreign EU customs and regulatory border in the Irish Sea, leaving Northern Ireland under the EU Customs Code and subject in 300 areas of law to EU, not UK, law; and therefore calls on the Government to take back control and sovereignty over the whole United Kingdom and to regulate the international border with the EU through application of the solution of mutual enforcement.

1537International Yoga Day 2025

Tabled: 23/06/25 Signatories: 6

Tom Gordon

Helen Maguire

Jim Shannon

Ian Roome

Mr Angus MacDonald

Sarah Dyke

That this House recognises International Yoga Day on 21 June, a global celebration established by the United Nations in 2014 to raise awareness of the many benefits of practising yoga; acknowledges that yoga offers inclusive and accessible ways to improve both physical and mental wellbeing through movement, breathwork, and mindfulness; commends the work of community leaders and teachers across the UK who offer welcoming, non-judgemental spaces for people of all ages and abilities to connect and unwind; and in particular, applauds Harrogate-based yoga teacher Guneet Khurana, who marked International Yoga Day by offering a free and inclusive yoga session in Valley Gardens on Sunday 22 June, promoting wellbeing, connection, and calm in the local community.

1538Summer solstice at Glastonbury Tor

Tabled: 23/06/25 Signatories: 9

Sarah Dyke

Jim Shannon

Anna Sabine

Wera Hobhouse

Dr Roz Savage

Ian Roome

Mr Will Forster

That this House acknowledges the annual observance of the Summer Solstice at Glastonbury Tor, a tradition embraced by the local community as a time for reflection, renewal and connection to the natural world; notes that the Tor, rising 518 feet above the Somerset Levels and topped by the remains of the 15th century St Michael’s Church, provides panoramic views of both the sunrise and sunset on the longest day of the year; recognises the Tor’s significance as a place of spiritual, cultural and historical importance, particularly within Pagan traditions, where it is seen as an important landscape connected to seasonal cycles, mystical energies, and ancient rites; celebrates the harmonisation of the past, the present and hope for the future through this millennia old festival; and further recognises that the Summer Solstice is a time for peace and harmony, a period when many cultures and individuals reflect on their connection to nature, celebrate life and renewal, and focus on fostering positive relationships with others and the planet.

1541Armed Forces Day in Newtownards 2025

Tabled: 23/06/25 Signatories: 5

Jim Shannon

Robin Swann

Jim Allister

Mr Gregory Campbell

Gavin Robinson

That this House celebrates the success of Armed Forces Day in Newtownards in the constituency of Strangford last Saturday 21 June 2025, that took place from 10am-5pm in Ards Airfield; notes the day kicked off with an official armed forces parade, featuring bands, pipes and drums of the Royal Irish Regiment alongside a display of the Red Arrows, the C47 Dakota and the Falcons; highlights the strong community engagement and how the event aims to honour those who serve and have served in the Armed Forces; underlines the success of this event with over 60,000 attendees and that this will go down in history as a day to remember; thanks the Armed Forces, Ards and North Down Borough Council and Eventsec for their work in making the day a success and also the general public for coming out in their thousands to support our wonderful Armed Forces.

1542Prison education insourcing

Tabled: 23/06/25 Signatories: 21

Kim Johnson

Liz Saville Roberts

Ian Byrne

Charlotte Nichols

Brian Leishman

Ian Lavery

Bell Ribeiro-AddySteve WitherdenClive LewisKate OsborneEllie ChownsCat Smith

That this House notes the worrying state of prison education, with 82 percent of prison and young offender institutions judged by Ofsted as requiring improvement or inadequate for overall effectiveness of education, skills and work provision; further notes that contracts for the new Prison Education Service (PES) have recently been awarded, with groups of prisons assigned to one of three providers, all of which previously delivered education under the Prison Education Framework; notes that prison educators are paid less in England than their counterparts in other further education workplaces, with the Education Select Committee warning in 2022 that poor pay, lack of career development, unsafe working environments and no time or respect to do a quality job has left the recruitment and retention of qualified and experienced prison educators at crisis point; believes rehabilitation should be at the heart of incarceration, and education should be at the heart of rehabilitation, but outsourcing has for years diverted vital resources away from the development, design and delivery of truly meaningful prison education and has overseen the de-professionalisation of education into a commodity, failing prisoners, staff and wider society alike; and calls on the Government to explore all legal options for terminating the PES contracting process immediately and instead insourcing all such provision under an effectively resourced, publicly owned national prison education system that supports educators to deliver a broad and balanced curriculum to prisoners, with a national contract for prison education staff and parity of esteem with further education.

1543Recognition of Paul McVey's service to martial arts and charity

Tabled: 23/06/25 Signatories: 4

Lillian Jones

Jim Shannon

Elaine Stewart

Irene Campbell

That this House congratulates Paul McVey, a former veteran and firefighter, 8th Dan Chief Instructor of the Zen-Bu Do International Martial Arts Academies, and martial arts instructor based in Kilmarnock, on receiving his second International Hall of Fame Award; notes that he has been nominated for nine international awards in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the martial arts community both in the UK and abroad; recognises his 53 years of dedicated service to martial arts; and commends his remarkable efforts in raising nearly £750,000 for various charitable causes, including cancer charities and military charities such as Combat Stress and Help for Heroes.

1544Biology and pregnancy

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 3

Rupert Lowe

Sir Desmond Swayne

Jim Shannon

That this House reaffirms the undeniable scientific fact that only women can become pregnant.

1545Celebrating Highland Schools Wind Ensemble's tour to Augsburg

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 3

Mr Angus MacDonald

Sarah Dyke

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates the Highland Schools Wind Ensemble, comprising members of the Inverness Schools' Wind Band and East Highland Concert Band, on their forthcoming concert tour to Augsburg, Germany; recognises the talent, dedication and hard work of the young musicians and their instructors, as well as the cultural value of such international exchange opportunities; further congratulates Megan Campbell, aged 15, from Portree High School, who was awarded the prestigious title of Highland Young Musician of the Year 2025 at the event held on 23 March 2025 at the Highland Archive Centre in Inverness; and notes the outstanding performances by competition runners-up Jack Bungey, pianist, from Ardnamurchan High School, and Rebekah Bullivant, violinist and University of the Highlands and Islands student, alongside fellow finalists Talitha Williamson, Fiona Langley and Blythe Bullen.

1546Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Silverburn Festival in Leven

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 5

Wendy Chamberlain

Mr Angus MacDonald

Sarah Dyke

Jim Shannon

Martin Wrigley

That this House congratulates the organisers, volunteers, performers, and attendees of the Silverburn Festival in Leven on the successful celebration of its 10th anniversary; notes that the festival, held in the grounds of Silverburn Park, welcomed hundreds of visitors over the weekend with a vibrant mix of live music, local food and drink, and family-friendly entertainment; recognises the festival’s commitment to showcasing original and emerging musical talent from across Fife and Scotland, with performances across three stages covering genres including rock, funk and soul, folk, pop, ska, and electronic music; further commends the organisers for offering free entry to children and introducing a new on-site parking facility to improve accessibility; acknowledges the vital role of Silverburn Festival in promoting arts and culture in the Levenmouth area and supporting local economic and community development; and wishes the festival continued success in the years ahead as a highlight of Fife’s cultural calendar.

1547Celebrating Finlay Ross winning the Emerging Talent Award at the Royal Highland Show

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 4

Wendy Chamberlain

Mr Angus MacDonald

Sarah Dyke

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Finlay Ross of Kettle Produce in North East Fife on being named the winner of the 2024 Emerging Talent (Produce) Award, presented as part of the Marks & Spencer Select Farm Awards at the Royal Highland Show; notes that the award recognises individuals aged 35 and under across the M&S supply chain who demonstrate exceptional impact, skill and leadership in UK food production; commends Mr Ross for his outstanding work managing the agronomy of broccoli and cauliflower crops, supporting seasonal agricultural workers, and contributing to the development of sustainable British farming; recognises his commitment to professional development through ongoing study for a diploma in agronomy and the expansion of his responsibilities into new crop areas; celebrates the role of Kettle Produce as a major grower and supplier of fresh vegetables, working with over 50 growers across the UK; and wishes Mr Ross continued success and all the best for the future.

1548Funding for British Transport Police

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 4

Martin Rhodes

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Jim Shannon

Cat Smith

That this House celebrates the vital role that British Transport Police (BTP) play in ensuring the security and efficiency of the transport network; recognises that BTP are a specialised force with skills unique to working on the transport network, for example, trained in rail safety, suicide prevention, and responding to trespassers on the line; notes that for the 2023-24 period, the previous Conservative government asked the BTP to find £5 million savings, and that this year, while the BTP requested a budget increase of 9.8%, the British Transport Police Authority have agreed only 4.6%; further notes that the force now faces an unprecedented £8.5m funding deficit that threatens jobs, and the safety and efficiency of our railways; understands that proposed job cuts and station closures will leave significant gaps in coverage, particularly in the West Coast Main Line, where there may be no BTP presence between Preston and Glasgow; also notes that as resources have been cut, levels of recorded crime on the transport network have increased; and believes that this underscores the urgent need for a fully funded BTP and that the transition to Great British Railways presents a key opportunity to rethink funding arrangements for the force with a funding settlement that secures our railways, making them safer and more efficient for passengers and transport workers.

1549Forced adoption

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 3

Ellie Chowns

Jim Shannon

Andrew George

That this house welcomes the unveiling of plaques on 10 May 2025 in St. Agnes and 23 May 2025 in Kendal commemorating unmarried mothers and the babies taken from them and recognises the suffering caused by forced adoption practices from the 1950s to the late 1980s; notes the unacceptable adoption and care practices of the past, including denial of information on welfare services, housing and financial assistance which were available at that time; further notes the failure to ensure that mothers, many young, had given informed consent and reports of carcinogenic drugs such as DES being administered without consent to suppress lactation; recognises that negligence by previous governments led to a failure to ensure that care provided for unmarried mothers was sufficient and appropriate, and a failure to protect the mothers and their children from mistreatment and discrimination; further recognises many suffered traumatising pre- and post-natal experiences as a consequence and that children taken were denied contact with their birth parents; expresses concern that since the conclusion of the Joint Commission on Human Rights 2022, despite strenuous efforts by the Movement for an Adoption Apology over the last three years, there has been no opportunity to meet with relevant ministers about implementing the recommendations; and calls on the Government to issue, without delay, a formal apology to all affected and to implement restorative measures, such as the provision of support with appropriate counselling, and providing help with the reunion of those who were forcibly separated by adoption.

1550Contribution of technical colleges

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 9

Alex Brewer

Mr Angus MacDonald

Wera Hobhouse

Claire Young

Sarah Dyke

Sarah Gibson

Jim ShannonMartin WrigleyShockat Adam

That this House recognises the immense contribution technical colleges make to the economy, the lives of young people and society more widely; notes that the range of courses and qualifications offered by these colleges enables their students to gain invaluable skills that will set them up for success in the future; further recognises these colleges for their role in improving job prospects and giving confidence to those concluding their education and about to start their career; commends the work of technical colleges serving Hampshire residents, including both Basingstoke and Farnborough Colleges of Technology, whose students have gone on to serve and support local businesses with their acquired skills and qualifications; and congratulates the Hospitality and Catering Students at the Basingstoke College of Technology for their incredible performance at the recent 2025 British Culinary Championships, with all participants achieving a silver medal or higher, including Best in Class.

1551International Commando Heritage Trust in Lochaber

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 3

Mr Angus MacDonald

Sarah Dyke

Jim Shannon

That this House welcomes the plans unveiled by the newly-formed International Commando Heritage Trust, led by a team of former Commandos, for a £7.4 million International Commando Heritage Centre near the Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge; notes the historic importance of Lochaber and, in particular, Achnacarry Castle as the original Commando Basic Training Centre during the Second World War, where over 26,000 Allied troops—including soldiers from the UK, Norway, Poland, France, Belgium and the United States—were trained in commando warfare; further notes the deep historical and emotional connection between the Memorial and the communities of Spean Bridge, Roy Bridge and Achnacarry, who gave steadfast support to the original Army and Royal Marines Commandos; believes that the proposed centre would support the local economy by creating jobs, boosting year-round tourism, and providing new opportunities for local businesses and young people, while ensuring the area’s history and environment are treated with sensitivity and respect; also notes that the proposed centre will honour this legacy in a respectful and discreet manner, enhancing the visitor experience at the Commando Memorial, which attracts over 250,000 visitors each year; acknowledges the support already expressed by the Commando Association and Royal Marines Association; and calls on the Government, Historic Environment Scotland and other relevant bodies to support the project and recognise Lochaber as the birthplace of modern special forces training.

1552St Clare’s Primary School inspection report

Tabled: 24/06/25 Signatories: 2

Patricia Ferguson

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates St Clare’s Primary School, Drumchapel in Glasgow West constituency on the positive inspection report they received from Education Scotland; commends the pupils at the school, who inspectors noted were welcoming, friendly, polite and proud of their school; recognises the dedication of the school’s headteacher Maryann McGuinness, senior leader, teachers and the entire school community, whose hard work has developed a culture where raising attainment is a key focus for improvements; notes that the pupils across the school have been achieving above average standards when measured against Glasgow and national comparator schools in literacy and numeracy; and further notes that St Clare’s was particularly praised for their system of class councils where children help to choose and order resources for the school such as furniture and playground equipment, which in turn helps the pupils to develop confidence and leadership.