Contents

Published – Thursday 4 September 2025

Early Day Motions tabled on Wednesday 3 September 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

1824Grower’s Garden

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Wendy Chamberlain

That this House celebrates the success of Cupar-based company Grower’s Garden, whose range of healthy snacks made from surplus broccoli and other fresh produce has secured a deal to be stocked in Tesco stores across Scotland; notes that the company is a collaboration between local farming businesses committed to reducing food waste, promoting healthy eating and supporting the rural economy; congratulates the team for their innovation and dedication in turning local crops into a product now available to customers nationwide; recognises the importance of supporting Scottish food producers in reaching new markets; and wishes Grower’s Garden every success as it continues to expand and showcase the excellence of North East Fife’s farming and food sector.

182530th anniversary of Drylaw Community Centre

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Christine Jardine

That this House recognises the important milestone of the 30th anniversary of the Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre; notes that the centre has served as a vibrant community hub for three decades, providing a wide range of services for people of all ages, including classes, activities and social events designed to inspire, educate and entertain; further notes the vital role played by community centres such as Drylaw in fostering local connections, promoting wellbeing and a sense of belonging, delivering accessible services for all, and encouraging diversity and inclusion; congratulates the centre on reaching this anniversary and wishes them every success with their celebrations and fundraiser; and further recognises the dedication and hard work of the staff and volunteers whose commitment has made such a positive difference to the local community.

1826Margaret Birse and Niaroo Maternity Hospital, Malawi

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Stephen Gethins

That this House recognises the remarkable generosity of Margaret Birse, of Arbroath, who ran the Niaroo guest house for many years and, following her death in April 2022, left over £650,000 to the Dalitso Project; notes that this gift is now funding the construction of the Niaroo Maternity Hospital in Kambilonjo, Malawi, providing vital maternity care in a rural community where childbirth can be life-threatening; and further notes that Margaret Birse's legacy will save countless lives and stands as a lasting tribute to her compassion and commitment to supporting the most vulnerable.

1827Free speech and the use of armed police

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Rupert Lowe

That this House expresses its deep concern at the arrest of writer Graham Linehan by armed police officers at Heathrow Airport on allegations relating to online speech; notes with alarm that such disproportionate action risks undermining free expression in the United Kingdom; believes that police resources should be prioritised towards tackling violent crime, organised crime and illegal migration rather than policing lawful speech; calls for an urgent review of incitement and hate speech laws to ensure that only genuine threats of violence are captured; and urges the Government to reaffirm its commitment to protecting free speech as the cornerstone of British democracy.

1828Asylum funding for local authorities

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Pete Wishart

That this House recognises that asylum policy at UK level has a direct impact on local authorities and communities and on the level of support they are able to offer asylum seekers; further recognises the importance of ensuring that appropriate levels of funding are made available by central Government and that this funding is needed to enable local authorities to plan and use resource effectively to support integration; and also recognises that a lack of funding limits opportunities for local authorities to plan support services or develops systems which could make significant improvements for people seeking asylum, such as community-based asylum accommodation which could better support integration and reduce costs of temporary hotel accommodation.

1829Journalist Sherwan Sherwani

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

John McDonnell

That this House expresses its extreme concern that on 19 August 2025 journalist Sherwan Sherwani was sentenced to another four years and six months in prison for allegedly threatening a prison officer; notes that on 16 February 2021 the Erbil Criminal Court sentenced Sherwan Sherwani and four others to six years in prison on charges of spying for the Kurdistan Workers' Party; is further concerned that The Kurdistan Democratic Party authorities are sending a message of fear to the protesting people of Kurdistan with this punishment; believes this sentence is not only unfair but also repressive as the new charges against Sherwan are vague, unproven, and issued behind prison walls where he had no means of defence; is also concerned that the law and the justice system are being used as tools of domination against writers, journalists, protest leaders, progressive personalities, civil and humanitarian organizations, and every political party that claims to support freedom and a free press; and calls on the Government to liaise with the Kurdistan Regional Government to immediately release Sherwan and allow him to return to his life, reuniting with his family and children without further delay.

1830INtuition

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Tom Morrison

That this House congratulates INtuition for serving the communities around Cheadle, Cheadle Hulme and Heald Green for ten years; and celebrates their dedicated team and wishes them all the best as they open the Cheadle Hulme branch to provide even more support and guidance for those going through the education system.

1831Nuneaton Round Table

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Jodie Gosling

That this House recognises the commendable charity work of Nuneaton Round Table, who have made £13,000 worth of charitable grants to over 23 local causes this year, including Ambleside Sports Club, Nuneaton Food Bank, Doorway, Nuneaton Carnival Committee, Harry's Pals, Nuneaton North Scout Group, Bulkington Food Bank, Headstrong, Bulkington Community Library, Nuneaton Quilters, CCAA Kids with Arthritis, The Guardians Grow Charity, Attleborough Wildlife Watchers, Stockingford Ribbons WI, Camp Hill Community CIC, The Harbour Centre, Nuneaton Central Scout Group, Anker Radio, Ask Katie and Weddington Summer Look for a Book.

1832Eating disorders and online harms

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 5

Wera Hobhouse

Manuela Perteghella

John McDonnell

Susan Murray

Mr Richard Quigley

That this House recognises the devastating rise in eating disorders, fuelled in part by harmful content on social media platforms promoting extreme dieting, idealised thinness, and punishing workouts; further notes the alarming findings of the Dump the Scales campaign’s recent survey and evidence presented at the recent APPG on Eating Disorders roundtable, highlighting how pro-eating disorder content and misleading nutritional advice are widely available online, often unregulated; and calls for urgent stronger measures to protect the public from dangerous pro-eating disorder content online and increased education in schools on safe social media use.

183340mph default speed limit on country lanes

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Martin Wrigley

That this House notes with concern that rural roads account for around 60% of all road fatalities in the UK, with an average of three people killed every day on country lanes; recognises that the current national speed limit of 60mph on single carriageway unlit country roads is often unsafe given their narrow width, sharp bends, limited visibility, and vulnerability of pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and farm traffic; further notes that many of these roads are not designed for high-speed motor traffic and that excessive speed significantly increases both the likelihood and severity of collisions; acknowledges the growing public support for safer speed limits on rural roads; also notes that country lanes can be designated and have signage to increase speed limits or reduce speed limits where appropriate; and therefore calls on the Government to make the default speed limit on country lanes 40mph, with local authorities retaining the power to set higher or lower limits where appropriate, in order to improve safety, reduce casualties, and encourage more sustainable and active travel in rural communities.

1834Judith Hammond

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Brian Mathew

That this House congratulates Judith Hammond, who recently cycled 400 miles for charity at the age of 82; celebrates her raising over £6000 for Medical Aid for Palestine, youth projects in Tubas and The Connection; commends her for achieving this whilst injured; and recognises the determination and resilience that this journey took.

1835300th anniversary of Shankill Parish Church, Lurgan

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Carla Lockhart

That this House celebrates the 300th anniversary of Shankill Parish Church, Lurgan, in 2025; notes that since the original parish church, Christ Church, opened in 1725, Shankill has stood as a landmark in the very heart of the town, its spire a constant presence on the skyline and its life and witness woven into the story of Lurgan; pays tribute to the generations of parishioners, rectors and volunteers who have faithfully served, worshipped and supported one another in this place, sustaining a vibrant parish through times of growth, hardship, conflict and change; recognises the church’s spiritual role as a place of prayer, thanksgiving, and community gathering, offering hope and guidance to countless families across three centuries; commends its ongoing pastoral and social outreach, which has sought to meet both the spiritual and practical needs of the people of Lurgan; welcomes the ambitious Re-Imagining Shankill restoration and renewal project which seeks not only to safeguard the historic fabric of this much-loved building but also to reimagine its role as a centre of worship, welcome, service, education and heritage for future generations; acknowledges the importance of this milestone not only for the congregation but for the whole town of Lurgan, for whom Shankill Parish remains a beacon of stability, faith and community life; and extends to the parish every good wish and blessing as it moves forward with vision and confidence into its fourth century of ministry and service.

1836Childhood Cancer Month and childhood cancer support reform

Tabled: 3/09/25 Signatories: 1

Carla Lockhart

That this House marks Childhood Cancer Month and expresses its solidarity with the children and families across the UK facing the devastating reality of a childhood cancer diagnosis; pays heartfelt tribute to the courage and advocacy of families who, in the midst of grief and hardship, continue to campaign for change, including David and Sara Watson from Banbridge in memory of their much-loved son Adam; notes with concern the current delay of up to three months for families to access Child Disability Living Allowance following a cancer diagnosis, despite the immediate and overwhelming needs this situation creates; therefore calls for urgent legislative reform to ensure automatic and immediate entitlement to that support; commends the tireless work of charities and organisations, including B-Positive, founded by Adam, which continues to provide vital wraparound support and advocacy for affected families; and urges the Government to take decisive action during Childhood Cancer Month to establish a national framework of timely financial and practical assistance so that no family has to endure unnecessary delays in receiving the help they so desperately need.

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.

1736Impact of terrorism glorification on reconciliation and victims

Tabled: 22/07/25 Signatories: 5

Carla Lockhart

Bob Blackman

Alex Easton

Jim Shannon

Jim Allister

That this House unequivocally condemns the continuing glorification of terrorism in Northern Ireland and across the United Kingdom, including the naming of youth and community events after individuals convicted of terrorist offences; expresses deep concern that such actions are being publicly defended and normalised by senior political figures, including the First Minister for Northern Ireland, who claims there was, in her words, no alternative to a campaign of violence that resulted in the murder and maiming of thousands of innocent people; believes that such narratives are not only a gross distortion of history, but also represent a profound insult to victims and survivors of terrorism; further believes that this dangerous revisionism fosters division, radicalises future generations, and undermines the moral fabric of democratic society; calls on the Government to urgently review and strengthen legislation regarding the glorification of terrorism, including restricting the public commemoration or celebration of those involved in acts of violence; and urges the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to take immediate steps to prevent the institutional sanitisation of terrorism in educational, cultural and sporting settings, and to uphold the principle that there is never justification for the deliberate targeting of civilians

1741Consequences of the Equality Act 2010

Tabled: 22/07/25 Signatories: 9

Andrew Rosindell

Jack Rankin

Sir John Hayes

Rupert Lowe

Sir Edward Leigh

Martin Vickers

That this House notes with deep concern the damaging implications of the Equality Act 2010; highlights that equality under the law already existed prior to 2010; recognises the Equality Act 2010 as an imposition of constitutional codification over traditional common law protections; acknowledges that racial discrimination cases have tripled between 2017 to 2024 under the Equality Act 1010, with only 5% being upheld, and that there have been over 200,000 employment tribunal cases since 2017 causing unnecessary costs to businesses; further notes that Public Sector Equality Duty undermines harmonious workplace relationships; also notes that provisions in the Act for positive action inherently contradicts supposedly anti-discriminatory measures of Section 13(5) of the Equality Act 2010 itself; and urges that the Equality Act 2010 be immediately reviewed, and eventually repealed.

1742Church of the Holy Family, Gaza

Tabled: 22/07/25 Signatories: 14

Patricia Ferguson

Douglas McAllister

Frank McNally

Ellie Chowns

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

That this House expresses shock and extreme concern that Israeli forces stand accused of attacking the Church of the Holy Family in Gaza, killing three people and injuring 10 others including the parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli; notes that the church and its compound were providing shelter to hundreds of displaced people with the support of Caritas Jerusalem, a sister organisation to the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development and the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund; further notes that Caritas Jerusalem has already lost two staff members who were killed along with their children during heavy shelling; and believes that the call of Caritas Internationalis to respect and protect places of worship and humanitarian shelter, stop attacks on civilians, especially those seeking refuge in places of worship and other humanitarian places such as schools and hospitals, and to ensure that access to aid and medical support for civilians, should be observed by those involved in military action in Gaza and the West Bank should be heeded.

1745Support for local independent businesses, shops, markets and producers

Tabled: 22/07/25 Signatories: 24

Helen Maguire

Steve Darling

Dr Al Pinkerton

Edward Morello

Marie Goldman

Cameron Thomas

That this House recognises the vital role local independent businesses, shops, markets and producers play in our communities and economy; supports the Buy Local, Back Britain campaign encouraging everyone to buy local and support the shops and makers that give high streets their unique character; notes that buying local keeps money circulating locally, protects jobs, helps small businesses thrive, and reduces carbon emissions; acknowledges the challenges small businesses face, including rising costs, online competition, and changing shopping habits; and calls on the Government to do more to support local businesses through business rates reform, National Insurance contributions relief, targeted high street regeneration, and promoting the importance of buying local, to build stronger, more resilient communities.

1746160th anniversary of the Salvation Army

Tabled: 22/07/25 Signatories: 3

Carla Lockhart

Jim Shannon

Jim Allister

That this House notes the upcoming 160th anniversary of the Salvation Army, founded on 2 July 1865 by William Booth in the East End of London; recognises the enormous global contribution of the Salvation Army as both a church and a charity, now present in 134 countries; commends the work of the Salvation Army in Upper Bann constituency, particularly in Lurgan and Portadown, where it continues to provide vital support to some of the most vulnerable members of society; acknowledges its dedicated work through food banks, employability programmes, and practical support services that offer dignity, stability, and hope to those experiencing hardship; further notes the organisation’s long-standing commitment to addressing social need and fostering community transformation; and extends sincere thanks and congratulations to all Salvation Army officers, volunteers, and supporters on the occasion of this significant anniversary.

175935th anniversary of the murder of Ian Gow MP

Tabled: 22/07/25 Signatories: 11

Andrew Rosindell

Sir John Hayes

Sir Edward Leigh

Martin Vickers

Rupert Lowe

Josh Babarinde

That this House recalls with deep sorrow, this day 35 years ago, the cowardly murder of Ian Gow, the then hon. Member for Eastbourne, a former Minister of The Crown and Parliamentary Private Secretary to the then Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, when, in the early hours of 30 July 1990, a device planted by the Provisional IRA exploded beneath his car at the family home in Hankham, East Sussex, cruelly depriving the House of Commons of a man of integrity and one of its most principled, caring and generous parliamentarians, and the United Kingdom of a genuinely courageous politician that always demonstrated the bull dog spirit, who was fearless in his defence of the nation; and resolves this day to honour the memory of the great Ian Gow and to strive to uphold the patriotism and love of country that this truly honourable Member dedicated his life to serving.

1769Commemoration of the sinking of the Suez Maru and Allied prisoners of war lost

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 12

Dr Scott Arthur

Jim Shannon

Brian Leishman

Chris Law

Sir Bernard Jenkin

Graham Leadbitter

That this House solemnly commemorates the tragic sinking of the Suez Maru on 29 November 1943, in which 550 Allied prisoners of war, primarily British and Dutch, were being transported by the Japanese Imperial Army from Ambon to Surabaya; notes with deep sorrow that many of these prisoners, already gravely ill, perished when the ship was torpedoed by the USS Bonefish, unaware of its human cargo, and that those who survived the initial sinking were subsequently executed by Japanese forces in violation of international law; recognises the Suez Maru as one of the most harrowing examples of the suffering endured by Allied POWs in the Asia-Pacific theatre; further notes that this atrocity remained largely unacknowledged for decades; further recognises the Suez Maru Apology Campaign’s calls for an apology for the government at the time’s failure to support a war crimes trial; and calls on the Government to ensure that the memory of those lost is preserved through education, remembrance, and support for the families of the victims, particularly around Victory over Japan Day, as a solemn reminder of the cost of war and the enduring importance of international humanitarian law.

1771Plastic in chewing gum

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 20

Wera Hobhouse

Mr Will Forster

Sarah Dyke

Dr Roz Savage

Mr Angus MacDonald

Jim Shannon

That this House notes with concern that the overwhelming majority of commercially available chewing gum in the UK contains plastic-based synthetic polymers hidden within the ingredients under the term gum base, meaning most consumers are unaware they are chewing and ingesting plastic; further notes that chewing gum is a significant but overlooked source of microplastic ingestion and environmental pollution, with research showing that a single piece of plastic gum can release in excess of 250,000 microplastic particles into the human body; is concerned by growing evidence linking microplastic exposure to health risks, including cancer, strokes, heart attacks, diabetes and infertility; is further concerned that the majority of gum consumers are under the age of 25, a group more vulnerable to the health impacts of microplastic exposure; notes that chewing gum remains largely unregulated in terms of its composition and public health risks; calls on the Government to commission independent research into the public health implications of plastic-based chewing gum; further calls for mandatory transparency in labelling, including a requirement for manufacturers to clearly disclose gum base ingredients in plain language; and urges the Government to explore regulatory measures to limit public exposure to microplastics through chewing gum and to encourage the development and adoption of plastic-free alternatives.

1772Humanitarian situation in Gaza

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 43

Ed Davey

Sarah Gibson

Mr Will Forster

Sarah Dyke

Dr Roz Savage

Clive Jones

That, given the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe taking place in Gaza, the ongoing captivity of hostages by Hamas, and the planned expansion of the Israeli military's operations into Gaza City, an humble Address be presented to His Majesty that he will be graciously pleased to give directions that there be laid before this House, no later than 1 November, any legal advice held or provided by the Attorney General relating to whether there have been breaches of international law in the Israel-Gaza war (2023 to present).

1774Oscar Mayer workers in Wrexham

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 27

Steve Witherden

Andrew Ranger

Kate Osborne

Rachael Maskell

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Kim Johnson

That this House celebrates the victory of Wrexham’s Oscar Mayer factory workers following a long-running dispute, during which over 500 Unite members undertook more than 200 days of strike action between September 2024 and April 2025 in solidarity to fight for the reinstatement of their 26 dismissed colleagues and for improved terms and conditions of employment, in response to the company’s attempt to cut pay by up to £3,000 a year through fire-and-rehire tactics on inferior contracts; and commends the efforts of all strikers and Unite the Union in securing the reinstatement of the dismissed workers, compensation for the loss of paid breaks, an extra day’s holiday for working bank holidays, the right to carry over accrued holidays to 2026, and a formal recognition agreement between Oscar Mayer and Unite.

1781Strike action in the Parliamentary Security Department

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 35

John McDonnell

Nadia Whittome

Mary Kelly Foy

Andy McDonald

Jon Trickett

Grahame Morris

That this House stands in solidarity with members of the Public and Commercial Services Union employed in the Parliamentary Security Department, presently taking industrial action in a dispute over attacks on their terms and conditions of employment; recognises the vital services these staff play in safeguarding hon. Members and staff working on the parliamentary estate, and pays tribute to their dedication in what is a highly stressful and responsible role; notes that staff members feel unfairly treated, particularly by the loss of six days of annual leave entitlement/rest days as a consequence of the imposition of changes to staffing rosters, but also in other respects including the widening of the ethnicity pay gap, the handling of grievances, the fairness of disciplinary processes, and the need for consistent guidance on breaks; and therefore calls on the employer to acknowledge the strength of feeling amongst the branch and to enter into meaningful negotiations to find a resolution to the dispute for these valued members of Parliamentary staff.

1782Global Sumud Flotilla

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 16

Iqbal Mohamed

Jeremy Corbyn

Mr Adnan Hussain

Shockat Adam

Ayoub Khan

Ben Lake

That this House expresses its solidarity with the Global Sumud Flotilla, the largest humanitarian flotilla ever organised to provide aid to Gaza, where a fleet of ships have departed simultaneously from ports across Europe and North Africa; notes that this peaceful international effort will bring together elected representatives, humanitarian activists, and artists from around 80 countries, united in their call for justice and humanity; further notes that for more than 17 years Gaza’s 2.1 million residents have endured a suffocating blockade that has deliberately deprived civilians, including infants and children, of food, medicine, clean water and other essential supplies, creating one of the gravest humanitarian crises of our time; condemns the deliberate starvation of the civilian population of Gaza, including the denial of water and humanitarian relief, which constitutes a war crime under international law; recalls that UN experts have affirmed the right of the people of Gaza to receive aid through their own territorial waters, and the right of humanitarian vessels to free passage in international waters; agrees that Israel must not obstruct this mission and must comply with international law, including orders of the International Court of Justice requiring unimpeded access for humanitarian aid; highlights Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis which shows mass death due to deliberate man-made food shortages and lack of access to medical supplies; and calls on the Government to support international efforts to end the blockade, ensure safe passage for the flotilla, and uphold legal and moral obligations to stop starvation in Gaza.

1784Armed Forces Training Contract and Elbit Systems

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 14

Brian Leishman

Richard Burgon

Kim Johnson

Jeremy Corbyn

Jon Trickett

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

That this House is deeply concerned by reports that the Ministry of Defence is considering awarding a £2 billion, 15-year Army Collective Training Service contract to Elbit Systems UK, a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit Systems Limited, Israel’s largest arms manufacturer; notes that Elbit supplies 85 per cent of the drones used by the Israeli military, has been directly implicated in war crimes committed in Gaza, and was named in the July 2025 report of the UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories as central to Israel’s plausibly genocidal conduct; further notes warnings from parliamentarians, human rights organisations and legal experts that awarding this contract would entrench Elbit at the heart of the UK’s defence infrastructure, with serious reputational, legal and moral consequences; believes that proceeding with this deal would risk making the UK more complicit in war crimes being committed against the Palestinian people; and urges the Government to rule out awarding any UK defence contracts to Elbit Systems or its subsidiaries.

1785Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 9

Mr Richard Quigley

Jim Shannon

Brian Leishman

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Shockat Adam

Graeme Downie

That this House recognises that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, which raises awareness of the unique needs and experiences of children with cancer and their families; notes that across the UK, around 4,200 children and young people under 25 are diagnosed with cancer every year, including around 2,000 children; acknowledges that cancer remains the leading cause of disease-related death in this age group; further recognises the unique experiences and distinct challenges faced by children and young people with cancer, including the need for treatment in specialist centres, access to age-appropriate services, and unique psychological support; further notes that they and their families often face significant additional financial costs because of cancer, including travel costs to access treatment and care; recognises and celebrates the vital work of the NHS and charities in supporting children and young people with cancer; notes the upcoming publication of the National Cancer Plan for England as an opportunity to focus on children and young people’s distinct needs; and calls on the Government to work collaboratively with partners and devolved Governments across the UK to support children and young people with cancer and their families, so no one faces the challenges of cancer alone.

1786Police front counter closures

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 10

Sarah Olney

Munira Wilson

Sarah Dyke

Mr Angus MacDonald

Wera Hobhouse

Jim Shannon

That this House commends the brilliant service our local police officers provide; recognises the importance of police front counters to victims of crime; notes that closing nearly half of London’s counters will decrease the accessibility of officers to communities; understands that these cuts will disproportionately impact elderly and disabled people; acknowledges that Richmond Borough will be left without an open front counter following numerous cuts to our policing resources over the past decade; further recognises that front counters are important to the visibility and trust of policing in communities; and urges the Government to address the funding shortfall for the Metropolitan Police to prevent these cuts from being made.

179220th anniversary of the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 4

Joani Reid

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Frank McNally

That this House celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005, which stemmed from a private members' bill lodged by Elaine Smith, former Labour MSP for Coatbridge and Chryston, and Central Scotland, to support and promote breastfeeding; recognises that breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition for babies and young children, supporting their health in the short and long term and benefitting maternal health, including by reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancer; notes the positive impact of the Act in helping increase breastfeeding rates in Scotland, with recent infant feeding statistics from Public Health Scotland showing significant rises over the past decade, both at the first visit and the 6 to 8 week review; supports the fact that these increases have been most marked among groups with historically lower rates, such as younger women and those in more deprived areas, thereby helping to reduce inequalities in breastfeeding; commends NHS staff and wider public service workers who promote and support breastfeeding mothers, babies and families; acknowledges that breastfeeding fosters a unique bond between mother and baby, provides ideal nutrition tailored to each infant, and delivers important health benefits for both; and further supports World Breastfeeding Week, taking place from 1 to 7 August 2025, with the theme entitled Prioritise breastfeeding: create sustainable support systems, which highlights the need to strengthen supportive environments for breastfeeding while also reducing the environmental impact of artificial feeding, contributing to global efforts to address climate change and promote sustainability for future generations.

1793Support for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and the Scottish Languages Bill

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 6

Mr Angus MacDonald

Sarah Dyke

Jim Shannon

Shockat Adam

Chris Law

David Chadwick

That this House welcomes the unanimous passage of the Scottish Languages Bill by the Scottish Parliament, granting official status to both Gaelic and Scots; recognises this as a significant and positive step in supporting linguistic and cultural diversity in Scotland; highlights the crucial role played by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in preserving and promoting Gaelic language, culture and education; notes the amendment passed during Stage 3 of the Bill, brought forward by Willie Rennie MSP, which calls for a review into Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s status and future development, including consideration of its designation as a Small Specialist Institute; and urges both the UK and Scottish governments to work together to ensure Sabhal Mòr Ostaig receives the recognition, support and resourcing required to continue its vital contribution to Scotland’s cultural, educational and linguistic landscape.

1806Access to NHS-funded IVF

Tabled: 1/09/25 Signatories: 16

Helen Maguire

Jess Brown-Fuller

Mr Will Forster

Sarah Dyke

Lisa Smart

Mr Angus MacDonald

That this House notes with concern the postcode lottery of access to NHS-funded IVF and fertility services; recognises that in much of the country couples are entitled to just one round of IVF, while in other areas they can receive up to three; is alarmed that eligibility rules can vary significantly between Integrated Care Boards, with some patients denied treatment due to historical circumstances such as a partner having adult children from a previous relationship; believes this undermines the founding principles of the NHS and shatters the hopes and family lives of many couples; further believes that people should be able to expect high-quality fertility treatment wherever they live; and calls on the Government to take urgent steps to end this postcode inequality and ensure fair, compassionate, and consistent access to life-changing reproductive health services.

1815Cockermouth Old Courthouse

Tabled: 2/09/25 Signatories: 2

Markus Campbell-Savours

Jim Shannon

That this House expresses grave concern over the condition of the historic Old Courthouse building in Cockermouth; notes that the building, purchased by Mr Samiul Ahmed in 2022, was allowed to collapse into the River Cocker in 2023 and remains unrestored; further notes that Mr Ahmed has failed to demonstrate either the intention or financial capacity to carry out essential repairs; decries the misdirection and stalling he has engaged in vis-à-vis Cumberland Council; observes that Halal Group Ltd, the company used to limit Mr Ahmed’s personal liability, declared assets of £182,520 in 2023, having acquired a property purchased at auction for £51,000; also notes that despite the building’s hazardous state, the company’s fixed asset value increased to £233,386 in 2024, alongside liabilities of £225,255; calls on Mr Ahmed to publish a full and honest account of the company’s assets and liabilities, including details of the creditors underwriting Halal Group Ltd; and urges Mr Ahmed to demonstrate to the residents of Cockermouth, particularly those at heightened risk of flooding, that he has both the financial means and the moral commitment to restore the building and protect the community from further harm.

1816Scottish Takeaway Awards 2025

Tabled: 2/09/25 Signatories: 2

Wendy Chamberlain

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates The Wee Chippy in Anstruther on being named Fish n’ Chips Takeaway of the Year at the Scottish Takeaway Awards 2025; recognises this achievement as a testament to the business’s commitment to quality, service, and its strong reputation as a favourite for locals and visitors alike in the East Neuk; further congratulates The Cheesy Toast Shack in St Andrews for receiving recognition for excellence as Takeaway Team of the Year, reflecting their hard work, creativity, and dedication to delivering an outstanding customer experience; notes that these awards highlight the strength of North East Fife’s hospitality sector and the role small, independent businesses play in sustaining local communities and attracting tourism; and wishes both businesses continued success as they build on their achievements and contribute to the vibrancy of the area’s food scene.

1817Kompassion Kombucha

Tabled: 2/09/25 Signatories: 2

Graham Leadbitter

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Kompassion Kombucha, based in Elgin, for receiving two prestigious awards at the Great Taste Awards 2025, widely known as the Oscars of the food world, for their sarsaparilla root and lavender kombucha; notes that these awards are part of the world’s largest and most trusted food and drink accreditation scheme, which sees thousands of products entered from across the globe; recognises the importance of such international accolades in providing ecological, small producers, especially in rural economies like Elgin, not only with immense pride, but also international recognition to stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the industry; and believes that national recognition of grassroots and sustainable producers like Kompassion Kombucha helps to celebrate and promote Scotland’s thriving food and drink sector.

1818Ben Russell Salon

Tabled: 2/09/25 Signatories: 2

Adam Dance

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Ben Russell Salon in Ilminster for winning the Muddy Stilettos’ 2025 Award for the Best Salon in Somerset, Bristol and Dorset; notes the award is set to celebrate independent lifestyle businesses across the UK; celebrates the award as a recognition of Ben’s outstanding work as a local hairdresser; recognises the importance of small businesses like Ben’s as the backbone of rural economies and communities; calls on the Government to do more to nurture the development of future award winning businesses in South Somerset and beyond; and wishes Ben all the best as he continues to develop his businesses.

1820Tom Dunlop's UK racecourse charity cycle

Tabled: 2/09/25 Signatories: 2

Mr Lee Dillon

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Tom Dunlop, from Lambourn in Berkshire, who recently began his journey to cycle over 2,600 miles around the UK visiting 60 racecourses as part of a charity challenge; recognises the hard work of Tom who started the ride at Newton Abbot racecourse in Devon aiming to raise £60,000 for the Injured Jockeys Fund and Diverse Abilities, with the money going towards a hydrotherapy pool at the Beehive Activity and Therapy Centre in Poole, and a few weeks ago finished his cycle in Newbury racecourse; notes the dedication of Tom who is utilising his gap year to challenge himself and give something back; further recognises the important work of both of these charities, the Injured Jockeys Fund provides support to jockeys past or present who are injured, unable to ride or generally in need, the Beehive Activity Centre in Poole is close to Tom's heart because his godmother's son has attended the centre for many years; and finally applauds Tom for his extraordinary efforts in this challenge.

1821The Castle School’s World of Work celebration

Tabled: 2/09/25 Signatories: 2

Mr Lee Dillon

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates The Castle School in Newbury on the success of its annual World of Work (WOW) celebration, which brings together local employers and the wider community to support young people with additional needs; commends the school for its outstanding commitment to providing specialist education to children with complex additional needs and for its innovative WOW programme, which equips students with valuable work experience, skills, and confidence to navigate life beyond the classroom; recognises the care and dedication of all staff and partners involved in making the programme such a success; thanks the many local businesses and organisations who participated in this year's celebration, including Promotrade, The Wasing Estate, Greenham Control Tower, The Furniture Project, The Podium Café, Falkland Vets, St Joseph's Primary School, The Ugly Duckling, Welford Park, Newbury Racecourse, Donnington Valley, Sainsbury's, Little Quavers Music, Hobbycraft, and Swings and Smiles; further congratulates the award-winning organisations for going above and beyond in their support of the programme, including The National Trust (Sandham Memorial Chapel), West Berks Food Bank, The Wasing Estate, Bellrock at West Berkshire Community Hospital, and Dingley's Promise; and gives particular recognition to Chris Cable of Waitrose, whose continued support has helped a former student secure and sustain employment over more than a decade, exemplifying the transformative impact of this vital initiative.

1822Motor neurone disease

Tabled: 2/09/25 Signatories: 9

Sarah Gibson

Mr Will Forster

Wendy Chamberlain

Wera Hobhouse

Adam Dance

Jim Shannon

That this House recognises the significant challenges faced by people living with motor neurone disease and other long-term health conditions; notes the importance of timely diagnosis, personalised care, and access to emerging treatments; encourages the provision of a named GP for individuals with long-term conditions to help improve continuity and quality of care; supports efforts to expand the capacity of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency to help accelerate access to innovative therapies; acknowledges the need to strengthen social care for disabled people, including by tackling vacancies and introducing a new, higher, carers minimum wage and greater support for unpaid carers through measures such as paid carers’ leave and respite breaks; believes that flexible working should be available to all, and that disabled people should be supported to work from home where appropriate; and calls for improved accessibility standards in public spaces, reforms to the blue badge scheme, and consideration of incorporating the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities into UK law.

1823Prostate screening in Hampshire

Tabled: 2/09/25 Signatories: 3

Alex Brewer

Jim Shannon

Sarah Gibson

That this House recognises the work of Fleet Lions Group, who, with sponsorship from Fleet Hospital and Community Friends, screened 400 men for prostate cancer on 9 August 2025; celebrates the efforts of local volunteers in promoting the health and well-being of the community in North East Hampshire; notes that early detection of cancer significantly increases survival rates and broadens available treatment options; and calls on the NHS to enhance support for early cancer detection initiatives to help save lives.