Contents

Published: Tuesday 23 May 2023

Early Day Motions tabled on Monday 22 May 2023

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

1191Drax Hall, Barbados

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 2

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Jeremy Corbyn

That this House acknowledges discussions around the ownership of Drax Hall Estate, a sugarcane plantation in St George, Barbados; notes that the Drax family generated large sums of wealth from the Drax Hall slave plantation, the family were financially compensated for the loss of 189 slaves during the abolition of slavery, and that the plantation is still used to harvest sugar and is estimated to be worth £4.7 million; is aware that Sir James Drax is attributed as being one of the first slave owners to convert from using indentured labour, where the worker can be freed once their debts have been paid, to enslaved labour, where the worker has no rights and may never go free; is saddened that, over 200 years, 30,000 slaves are estimated to have died at the Drax Hall plantation in Barbados and other Drax plantations across the Caribbean; and supports the Barbados Government in their endeavour to have ownership of Drax Hall returned to Barbados.

1192J&H Cairns

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Angela Crawley

That this House congratulates J&H Cairns of Law following their success at the Scottish Craft Butcher Make it with Haggis Awards 2023; recognises the hard work of Jim and his staff in developing award winning recipes for their Balmoral Pie, Rodeo Burger and Chicken Balmoral; celebrates J&H’s offering of craft products as well as the welcoming atmosphere of the family butchers; understands that the business was established by Jim and his father Henry in 1984 and has gone from strength to strength over the last 39 years; and further congratulates J&H Cairns for their success at the World Championship Scotch Pie Awards earlier this year.

1193Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Amy Callaghan

That this House marks Skin Cancer Awareness Month, which takes place in May 2023; recognises the VAT burn campaign by the hon. Member for East Dunbartonshire to make sunscreen more affordable for all; notes that 16,744 cases of melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed in the UK each year, with 2,341 deaths resulting from these diagnoses, as well as a further 156,000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer; and further notes that 90 per cent of melanoma diagnoses would have been preventable with adequate sun protection.

1194Prestwick Academy Girls Tennis Team, 2023 Tennis Scotland Team of the Year

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 6

Dr Philippa Whitford

Allan Dorans

Patricia Gibson

Alan Brown

Gavin Newlands

Hannah Bardell

That this House congratulates S4 players Olivia Kidd, Natasha Morrison, Abigail Taylor and Georgia Sanger, of the Prestwick Academy Girls Tennis Team, on their incredible achievement in winning Tennis Scotland’s 2023 Team of the Year Award after success in every round of the Scottish Schools Competition led to them finishing as runners up in the Scottish Schools First Division, and qualifying for the Lawn Tennis Association National Finals in Nottingham in July 2022; further congratulates the team’s coaches, Nicole Clarke and Gillian McIlroy, along with Elaine Grierson, for her organisational work, and the girls’ parents, for their support in transporting them to tennis matches across the country; and applauds that, despite facing exams, the girls have continued to demonstrate dedication, team-work and enthusiasm for both their studies and their sport, and have been excellent role models within the school, with their success encouraging other pupils to participate in sport and physical activity.

1195Golden Friendships and the Scottish Charity Awards

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Martin Docherty-Hughes

That this House congratulates Golden Friendships on its nomination for the Community Action award at the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations Scottish Charity Awards, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Edinburgh on Friday 23 June 2023; notes the vital work of Golden Friendships in helping to alleviate social exclusion for all groups of people by organising entertainment and other activities; celebrates the achievements of all 32 finalists in this year’s Scottish Charity Awards; recognises the hard work of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations in organising and hosting the Scottish Charity Awards annually; and thanks Golden Friendships and all nominated voluntary organisations and individuals for the crucial work that they do in communities across the country.

1196Wee Play Place, Alexandria and the Scottish Hospitality Awards 2023

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Martin Docherty-Hughes

That this House congratulates the Wee Play Place, Alexandria on being awarded the Children’s Play Centre of the Year at the Scottish Hospitality Awards 2023; understands that this is the second year in a row that the Wee Play Place has had success, having been awarded Best Entertaining Team at the Scottish Hospitality Awards 2022; believes that this success is down to the hard work and dedication of the small team that work in the Wee Play Place who provide such a welcoming and safe environment, whilst supporting the families from the local community and beyond who visit the venue; further believes that the value of children's play centres in nurturing the development of young children through social interaction is of the utmost importance; and wishes everyone involved in the Wee Play Place the very best for the future.

1197Karen Kelly and Lanark ASC

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Angela Crawley

That this House congratulates Lanark Amateur Swimming Club head coach Karen Kelly on her 50th anniversary with the club; notes that Karen joined Lanark ASC as a swimmer aged 10 in 1973 before starting as a poolside helper and progressing from coach to head coach; praises her for her extraordinary work as a volunteer who has coached more than 40 district champions, 15 Scottish junior champions, 12 Scottish schools champions and two Deaflympic athletes earning her multiple awards including Clydesdale Sports Council Coach of the Year and Scottish Amateur Swimming Association coach volunteer of the year; recognises that Karen’s commitment and sacrifice as a coach has provided countless swimmers the opportunity to reach their potential and compete at the highest level; commends her for her inspiration, encouragement and support for the club’s swimmers; and thanks Karen for her everything she has done for the club.

1198Proposed withdrawal of day travelcards

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 8

John McDonnell

Apsana Begum

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Jeremy Corbyn

Ian Mearns

Grahame Morris

That this House notes that the Mayor of London is considering withdrawing Day Travelcards from sale; further notes that the change is proposed to assist in generating additional income; is mindful that that the likely impact of the withdrawal is to make travel more expensive for passengers who currently purchase Day Travelcards; recognises that National Railcard discounts can be used on Day Travelcards and that these discounts are not available via contactless payment on the London transport network; further recognises that a recent report by London Travelwatch on digital exclusion found that already one in six people in London say they are unable to buy a ticket as they do not have access to a smartphone or the internet; is concerned that further restricting fares available to purchase as tickets risks exacerbating digital exclusion; believes that scrapping Day Travelcards could disincentivise travel into and around London on public transport and encourage car use as an alternative; understands that the terms of Transport for London’s current funding agreement with the Government require it to generate additional revenue; further understands that TfL has forecast a £75m surplus on its budget this year and passenger numbers are rising faster than forecast; therefore calls on TfL and the Mayor of London to retract proposals to withdraw Day Travelcards; and calls on the Government to enable a fair funding arrangement for London’s public transport system.

1199Clwb Rygbi Llanymddyfri, Y Porthmyn (Llandovery Rugby Club)

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Jonathan Edwards

That this House congratulates Clwb Rygbi Llanymddyfri, Llandovery RFC, on winning the Indigo Premiership Rugby Championship with a victory of 24-8 against reigning champions Cardiff RFC at the world-famous Arms Park in the capital; congratulates the team, coaches and committee for their remarkable achievement on becoming the Champions of Wales; thanks the Club for bringing joy to followers of the great game of Rugby Union throughout Carmarthenshire and beyond; and recalls the Clubs rallying cry, Ymlaen y Porthmyn, er gwaethaf pawb a phopeth - ni Yma o Hyd, which means, forward the Drovers, despite everything we are still here.

1200Blasphemy laws in Nigeria

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House condemns the blasphemy laws in Nigeria that have caused individuals with minority beliefs to receive long prison sentences or extreme mob violence; urges President Buhari to pardon those facing the death penalty for alleged blasphemous expressions before he leaves office, including Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, whose case is currently before the Supreme Court; and extends its full support to Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, a 22 year old singer at risk of execution for circulating a song via WhatsApp considered blasphemous.

1201Impact on patients of NHS practices in absorbent continence product purchasing

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House notes that the current approach by the NHS to the purchasing of absorbent continence products adversely impacts upon patients' safety, quality of life and health outcomes, including avoidable hospital admissions, urinary tract infections, skin conditions, pressure ulcers and overall health and wellbeing; considers that the current focus on unit price, rather than value and assessment of the most clinically appropriate product for a patient, leads to avoidable increases in the number of items used, the cost of laundering clothes and bedding, staff time and avoidable harm to staff and patients, and so to substantial overall increases in the financial cost to the system; and encourages His Majesty's Government to deliver on its commitment to reducing unwarranted variation of care and delivering value based procurement and urgently to review the priorities of and incentives for purchasing managers to ensure that patients access the most clinically appropriate product for them, so improving patient outcomes and quality of life, whilst also reducing avoidable cost to the system.

120270th anniversary of St Patrick's in Millisle

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House notes the 70th anniversary of St. Patrick’s, Millisle which was built in 1953 as a daughter church of Donaghadee Parish; notes the history of the church, which saw it become the responsibility of the rector at Carrowdore in the 1960s, and so the grouped parishes of Christ Church, Carrowdore and St. Patrick’s, Millisle, were formed; further highlights the very close connections with its community and village and its strong desire and willingness to be God’s kingdom there, along with the other denominations; and prays for God's richest blessing upon the parish as they continue to show the love of God in word and deed within their community.

1203Government of Wales (Devolved Powers) Bill

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 3

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Hywel Williams

That this House congratulates Lord Wigley on his Government of Wales (Devolved Powers) Bill passing its third reading in the House of Lords; notes that the private member’s bill would prevent any change or reduction in the Senedd’s powers without the support of a super majority of two-thirds of its members, and would formalise relationships of respect between the Welsh and UK Governments; is increasingly concerned that the powers of the Senedd have been undermined by the actions of the UK Government since the Brexit vote; highlights a recent report by the Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales that the status quo or unwinding devolution were neither reliable nor sustainable bases for the future governance of Wales; maintains that self-government is the settled will of the people of Wales following successive referendums in 1997 and 2011; argues that all Members, in Westminster and in Cardiff Bay, should do all they can to ensure its stability and a transparency of its powers; and calls on the UK Government to support the Bill and give it the time it needs to pass through Parliament.

120410th anniversary of the murder of Fusilier Lee Rigby

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Mr Gregory Campbell

That this House notes that 22 May 2023 marks the tenth anniversary of the murder of Fusilier Lee Rigby; remembers his family and friends at a time when they will be reminded of the horrific nature of Lee's murder; assures them that Lee will not be forgotten; recognises and values the courage and bravery of those who have served in our Armed Forces, whether on duty or off duty; and expresses the hope that communities across the United Kingdom will remain vigilant and do what they can to support those dealing with radicalism that can cause such sickening barbarity as was evident on that fateful day in May 2013.

1205RV Explorer and Scottish Government work on marine conservation

Tabled: 22/05/23 Signatories: 1

Patricia Gibson

That this House congratulates the Community of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST), in partnership with Arran Outdoor Education Centre, on the official launch of the RV Arran Coast Explorer, with the formalities undertaken by Màiri McAllan MSP, the Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition; is aware that this multifunction vessel will help deliver a range of restoration, research and education projects; welcomes the RV Explorer as a vital resource to COAST in facilitating the advancement of marine scientific research in collaboration with leading universities as well as allowing the monitoring of the recovery of the waters around the Isle of Arran and surrounding areas; understands that the vessel will prove invaluable in enabling COAST to develop its research into the recovery of the Lamlash Bay No Take Zone, which recently celebrated its 14th birthday, the South Arran Marine Protected Area and the wider Clyde region; shares COAST’s view that the arrival of the new vessel will allow the island to realise the full potential of Arran’s marine conservation areas and raise the profile of Arran as a destination for marine environmental education, knowledge exchange and eco-tourism; and applauds the SNP Scottish Government Nature Restore Fund in its support for COAST in procuring this vessel, facilitated by the Scottish Marine Environmental Enhancement Fund, managed by NatureScot, further highlighting the SNP Government’s commitment to marine conservation on Arran, which it designated as Scotland’s first No Take Zone in 2008 to protect key habitats and species and enhance biodiversity.

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.

1130Potential merits of a Sudanese Family Scheme visa

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 13

Hywel Williams

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Jim Shannon

Sir Peter Bottomley

Chris Stephens

That this House calls for the creation of a Sudanese Family Scheme visa for Sudanese people affected by the ongoing conflict in Sudan; notes civilians have become trapped in Khartoum without access to water, electricity, and access to food or medical care as the city is bombarded by rival factions; acknowledges the success of the Homes for Ukraine scheme as a viable means of helping people flee from war zones to join relatives and families in the UK; and calls on the UK Government to do its part to help the displaced families of Sudan and renew its efforts to help end the fighting.

1133Hereditary angioedema awareness day (No. 2)

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 28

Deidre Brock

Martyn Day

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Anne McLaughlin

Allan Dorans

Marion Fellows

That this House celebrates Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) day on Tuesday 16 May 2023; recognises that HAE has a significant impact on patient lives and can cause unpredictable potentially life-threatening attacks; commends the important work patient organisations, such as HAE UK, and leading immunology specialists have done to support and advocate for those living with HAE; applauds the ambition for patients to experience zero swelling episodes or attacks; welcomes the commitments of the Rare Disease Framework to improve health outcomes for rare disease populations; and urges policymakers to recognise the need to increase clinical awareness of rare diseases, prioritise quality of life in treatment guidelines, improve shared decision-making processes, and ensure better access to psychological support.

1135World Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day 2023

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 23

Mr Virendra Sharma

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

Chris Stephens

Christine Jardine

That this House welcomes World Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day on 19 May; understands that there are over 500,000 people in the UK living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, the two main forms of which are Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis; appreciates the work of Crohn’s & Colitis UK’s Early Diagnosis campaign, which puts a focus on the importance of early diagnosis of Crohn’s and Colitis; notes with concern that more than a quarter of people wait longer than one year for a diagnosis and that many people have to visit A&E departments for emergency treatment; further understands that delays in diagnosis can impact hugely on quality of life, disrupting education and work; regrets that patients who wait longest to be diagnosed with Crohn’s or Colitis are two to four times more likely to have complex disease that requires surgery; understands that reducing delays to diagnosis will improve the quality of life of patients, while reducing the wider costs to the NHS; and urges the Government to invest in a public campaign to raise awareness of digestive and bowel disease to improve diagnosis over the next five years.

1141Wellbeing economy

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 20

Caroline Lucas

Clive Lewis

Deidre Brock

Claire Hanna

Ben Lake

Ronnie Cowan

That this House welcomes the call made by President Michael D Higgins of Ireland on 28 April 2023 at a reception for the Think-Tank for Action on Social Change to look beyond the current obsession with economic growth and rebalance economy, ecology and ethics; notes that this call is well-aligned with the aims of the European Parliament’s examination of the Beyond Growth agenda; further notes that such a call has far-reaching implications for the teaching and practice of economics in which the obsession with perpetual growth has left society blinkered to the ecological catastrophe we now face; agrees with President Higgins that an alternative paradigm of social economy within ecological responsibility is already within reach; further agrees that this new paradigm must now find its way onto the curriculum where economics is taught and into the board rooms and government ministries where economics is practised; and calls on the Government to match the ambition and leadership shown by the Irish President and the European Parliament by supporting the development of a post growth economics, conducting a review of the growth dependency of the economy and developing a comprehensive strategy to transition to a wellbeing economy.

1142Legal aid funding

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 15

Rebecca Long Bailey

Jonathan Edwards

Mary Kelly Foy

Jim Shannon

Dan Carden

Beth Winter

This House notes that the Legal Aid Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 came into force in April 2013, significantly limiting the scope and eligibility for legal aid; notes that the Westminster Commission on Legal Aid’s Inquiry in 2021 found that the public values legal aid as part of the state-funded safety net; acknowledges that the 2021 Legal Aid Practitioners Group Census indicates that the majority of practitioners currently working in legal aid reported that they had faced financial barriers to entering the sector, that training opportunities for new entrants are limited, and that there were poor rates of financial remuneration and challenging working conditions; further notes that, for criminal legal aid, the Government has committed to fee increases of just 9 per cent in 2023, increasing to 11 per cent in 2024, constituting a real-terms cut, contrary to the recommendations from the Independent Review of Criminal Legal Aid (CLAIR) which recommended an immediate minimum 15 per cent increase, resulting in the Law Society issuing proceedings against the Ministry of Justice; calls on the Government to urgently implement the CLAIR recommendations for criminal legal aid reform, including the recommended pay increase; further notes that, for civil legal aid, the Westminster Commission recommended a range of immediate changes to relieve pressures in legal aid service provision and workforce recruitment and retention while a national review of civil legal aid is ongoing; and calls on the Government to implement those changes with urgency.

1143Housing legal aid

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 17

Rebecca Long Bailey

Jonathan Edwards

Jon Trickett

Mary Kelly Foy

Jim Shannon

Dan Carden

That this House notes that the housing system is in crisis and that many consider local authority housing services to be at breaking point; further notes that, as a result, services that provide free housing legal advice are in overwhelming demand; also notes this is compounded by half of all law centres in England and Wales closing over the past decade due to central funding cuts and many law firms suspending provision of legal aid services, resulting in the national expansion of housing legal aid deserts estimated to affect 12.45 million people in England and Wales, according to research by LexisNexis; acknowledges that having access to legal advice is fundamental to upholding the rule of law and that legal aid is a critical safety net to protect people’s rights, which, in the context of housing advice, facilitates people finding and keeping a home or upholding rights as tenants and owners; calls on the Government to restore the Local Housing Allowance rates to account for rent increases, to invest in social housing, and to bring forward the Renters Reform Bill; and further calls on the Government to implement the policies suggested by the Renters' Reform Coalition to ensure safe, secure and affordable homes for all including abolishing no fault evictions, provide emergency funding to local authority homelessness services, introduce rent controls and an evictions ban similar to Scotland, provide emergency funding to the legal aid system and advice services, and expand legal aid scope and eligibility to improve access to justice.

114550th anniversary of Guideposts Trust

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 5

Jim Shannon

Sir Jeffrey M Donaldson

Margaret Ferrier

Rachael Maskell

Carla Lockhart

That this House celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Guideposts Trust, which partakes in incredible work to support people with learning disabilities, complex mental health needs and dementia; notes that they have raised a fantastic £26,409 for their Camp Guideposts project, which aims to set up ball-tents for camping and numerous different activities; highlights the efforts their Guideposts CEN Coaching put into providing crucial support for those who are facing struggles; further highlights the strain that the cost of living has had on their fundraising, especially in terms of premises bills as rates etc have sky rocketed; further notes their goals to tackle isolation, provide meaningful activity and support people along their journeys; thanks them dearly for their work in the charitable industry; and wishes them all the best for the next 50 years.

1146Crusaders FC Manager Stephen Baxter, world's longest serving manager

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 4

Jim Shannon

Sir Jeffrey M Donaldson

Margaret Ferrier

Carla Lockhart

That this House celebrates the ongoing success of Stephen Baxter, Crusaders FC Manager of 18 years, who has almost 900 matches under his belt and is the world's longest serving football manager; notes that he was appointed manager in 2005, following a spectacular football career that includes playing for Linfield, Glenavon and the Crues, where he helped them win two Irish League titles; further notes as manager that he added three more Danske Bank Premiership crowns to his football successes; wishes him all the best for the rest of his managing career; and assures him that his contributions to Northern Ireland football will not be forgotten.

1148Europe Day 2023

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 10

Hywel Williams

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Dr Philippa Whitford

Chris Stephens

Jonathan Edwards

That this House celebrates Europe Day, the anniversary of the historic declaration by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman on 9 May 1950, which established the European Coal and Steel Community and ultimately led to the creation of the European Union; notes that the declaration set out a new form of political cooperation in Europe; further notes with concern recent figures by the Office for Budget Responsibility showing that total goods trade with the EU is down by 15 per cent on the level before the transition period ended; joins with our European neighbours in celebrating peace and unity on the continent; and calls on the Government to seek to negotiate the re-entry of the UK into the EU Single Market, in the spirit of political cooperation at the heart of the Schuman Declaration.

1150Workers' Educational Association 120th anniversary

Tabled: 9/05/23 Signatories: 31

Kim Johnson

Jonathan Edwards

Jon Trickett

Mary Kelly Foy

Sir Peter Bottomley

Mick Whitley

That this House congratulates the WEA on its 120th anniversary; recognises that the organisation was founded in 1903 as the Workers’ Educational Association; highlights that it provides community adult education and has supported hundreds of thousands of adult learners in England and Scotland; praises the WEA for bringing adult learning within reach for people of all backgrounds, with 42 per cent of WEA learners living in disadvantaged postcode areas; acknowledges that WEA courses support adult learners to gain qualifications and to progress into employment; further acknowledges that WEA learners also report improved mental health, better connections to their local communities and improved confidence to deal with life’s challenges; notes that, in 2023, the WEA stays true to its founders’ commitment to challenging educational inequality; and looks forward to WEA learners enjoying courses for many more years to come.

1151Clydebank FC 2005s, Scottish Cup Champions

Tabled: 10/05/23 Signatories: 6

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Chris Law

Patrick Grady

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates the players and coaches of Clydebank FC 2005s on winning the InspireSport Scottish Youth FA Cup Final after defeating Hillwood FC 2005s 2-0; believes this is a fantastic achievement and is the culmination of a great deal of hard work and team work; and wishes the players and coaches well in their future endeavours.

1152Food workers, prices and poverty

Tabled: 10/05/23 Signatories: 34

Ian Mearns [R]

Ian Byrne

Olivia Blake

Beth Winter

Jeremy Corbyn

Chris Stephens

That this House is shocked by the findings of the Foodworkers on the Breadline report published by the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union based on a recent survey of members working in food manufacturing and retail; notes that, alarmingly, four in ten respondents reported having to skip meals for financial reasons, whilst one in five report using food banks themselves; believes that it is utterly unacceptable that, at a time when food prices have hit levels not seen in the UK for decades, workers are left unable to afford the products of their own labour; calls for trade unions to be invited to participate in the forthcoming UK Food Summit; urges immediate Government action to raise pay throughout food supply chains, outlaw exploitative zero hours contracts, whilst also tackling the culture of rampant corporate profiteering, particularly by the big supermarkets; and supports the incorporation of a statutory Right to Food in UK legislation.

1154Uddingston Hockey Club

Tabled: 10/05/23 Signatories: 6

Angela Crawley

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

Alison Thewliss

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Uddingston Hockey Club following their success in the 2022-23 Women’s Scottish Plate; notes that Uddingston defeated Grange 2-1 in the final at the National Hockey Centre at Glasgow Green after defeating Perthshire, University of Strathclyde and Erskine Stewarts Melville to reach the final; acknowledges that Uddingston’s victory was achieved with an average squad of age 18, which signals a bright future for the club; recognises that their success comes just two years after their promotion to the Premiership; commends Lucy Hogarth and Amber Wade for scoring the goals in the final; praises their teammates, coach Connor Evans and the coaching staff for their collective efforts and determination to succeed; and further congratulates Uddingston on being named EuroHockey Club of the Year for large clubs this season.

115575th anniversary of the Nakba

Tabled: 11/05/23 Signatories: 18

Layla Moran [R]

Patrick Grady

Caroline Lucas

Jamie Stone

Julie Elliott

Munira Wilson

That this House notes that Monday 15 May 2023 marks 75 years since 750,000 Palestinians were expelled or fled from Palestine in what is now known as the Nakba; notes that there are now over five and a half million Palestinian refugees worldwide and supports these refugees' rights in line with international law; affirms the need for the Government to continue to fund UNRWA' which carries out important work with and for Palestinian refugees; further recalls the 800,000 Jews who fled or were expelled from Arab states from 1948 onwards; further notes the ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories in the West Bank and Gaza by the Israeli authorities; calls on the Government to immediately recognise an independent Palestinian state which will help breathe new life into the peace process; and urges the Government to continue to pursue a two-state solution and a lasting peace in the region.

1156Remembering Leah Sharibu on the occasion of her 20th birthday

Tabled: 11/05/23 Signatories: 12

Brendan O'Hara

Hywel Williams

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

Patrick Grady

Chris Law

That this House sends its sincere best wishes, as well as its renewed hopes for her speedy release from captivity, to Leah Sharibu on the occasion of her 20th birthday on 14 May; notes with deep regret that this will be the sixth birthday Leah has had to face since being kidnapped and held in sexual slavery by Islamic State West Africa Province following their 2018 attack a girl’s school in Dapchi, Yobe State, Nigeria, in which they killed five of the girls and abducted 104 others; recognises that of all the kidnapped girls, Leah is the only one who remains in captivity, reportedly because of her refusal to renounce her Christian faith and convert to Islam; understands that there is credible evidence to say that Leah is still alive; and therefore amplifies the oft repeated call for the government and the Nigerian authorities to do everything they can to secure Leah’s timely release and allow her to be reunited with her family.

1158Alzheimer Scotland and Dementia Awareness Week

Tabled: 11/05/23 Signatories: 17

Kirsten Oswald

Hywel Williams

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

Patrick Grady

Richard Burgon

That this House recognsies Dementia Action Week in England and Wales which is taking place from 16 to 22 May and Dementia Awareness Week in Scotland which is taking place from 29 May to 4 June; understands this year’s Dementia Awareness Week in Scotland focuses on tackling the stigma faced by people living with dementia, particularly those who face it earlier in life; highlights the important work carried out by Alzheimer Scotland, Scotland’s national dementia charity, which provides support and information for people with dementia, their loved ones, and carers; notes the wide range of services offered by Alzheimer Scotland, including 25 Dementia Resource Centres across the country which provide safe and friendly environments for people with dementia to visit and take part in therapeutic activity groups, a 24-hour freephone Dementia Helpline which provides information and emotional support to those living with dementia, and a network of Dementia Advisors and Post Diagnostic Support Link Workers working in local communities to support people with a diagnosis; further understands the important campaign work also carried out by Alzheimer Scotland to improve the provision of services for people with dementia and to increase the funds available for vital dementia research and the number of people participating in dementia research; applauds the fantastic work of all those involved with Alzheimer Scotland who are supporting those living with dementia and their carers; and wishes everyone at Alzheimer Scotland well as they continue their important work.

1159Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

Tabled: 11/05/23 Signatories: 11

Wayne David

Rosie Duffield [R]

Jonathan Edwards

Christina Rees

Caroline Lucas

Sir Mike Penning

This House is concerned at the increasing number of dog attacks and is alarmed that 13 people have been killed as a result of a dog attack since the start of 2022 and more have been seriously injured; notes that the cost to the NHS of dog bites has been calculated at £777 million per year; recognises that an approach based on breed specific legislation has failed and that the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 is woefully ineffective; looks forward to the publication of recommendations by the Government’s Responsible Dog Ownership working group and calls for this to take place before the summer recess; and further calls on the Government to introduce new legislation covering all aspects of the control of dangerous dogs that protects the public, promotes responsible dog ownership and improves animal welfare.

1162Jazzle Dazzle Studios, AllStar World Champions

Tabled: 15/05/23 Signatories: 7

Gavin Newlands

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Chris Stephens

Alison Thewliss

That this House congratulates Jazzle Dazzle Studios in Renfrew on being crowned World Champions in three events, and winning the silver medal in another, in the AllStar Open World Championships in Orlando, Florida; applauds coaches Jackie Bryceland and Michelle Holmes, alongside senior dancers Eilidh, Ellie, Emma, Grace, Kayleigh, Layla, Megan and Rachel, and mini dancers Carly, Gabrielle, Indie, Lauren, Olivia, Orla, Rachel and Robyn; salutes Jazzle Dazzle Studios in Renfrew, who opened in 2012 with only twelve children, on their success and ability to continue to grow the studio year on year; commends their continual success competing and winning trophies in national, European and World events over the years; praises Jazzle Dazzle and their coaches for providing a positive, nurturing and sociable environment for local children and adults and their continued ambition to promote the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle; notes that, for some of the seniors who competed this year, this will be their last season competing; and wishes all the Jazzle Dazzle dancers and coaches the best of luck and all success in future competitions.

1163Anti-social behaviour on greenways

Tabled: 15/05/23 Signatories: 12

Mr Barry Sheerman

Margaret Ferrier

Douglas Chapman

Sir Peter Bottomley

Mike Amesbury

Chris Stephens

That this House highlights the important value of green space to individuals and their wellbeing; consequently acknowledges the need to reserve greenways to ensure pedestrian and cyclist access to greenways as a means of leisure and safe pedestrian transportation; is concerned by the growing issue of illegal motorcycle use of greenways; is concerned by the safety and anti-social impact of such illegal activity; calls on the Government to provide all relevant organisations with sufficient financial and human resources to combat illegal use of greenways.

1164University and College Union marking boycott

Tabled: 15/05/23 Signatories: 24

Zarah Sultana

Apsana Begum

Kim Johnson

Cat Smith

Mary Kelly Foy

Richard Burgon

That this House notes that workers in higher education have endured over a decade of pay cuts, rising workloads, equality pay gaps and rampant casualisation; supports the recent industrial action that members of the University and College Union were forced to take in defence of pay and pensions; condemns plans by some vice chancellors, as instructed by the Universities and Colleges Employers' Association, to dock up to 100 per cent pay of staff that are working full-time but taking part in a legal marking boycott; calls on the Universities and Colleges Employers' Association to address the concerns of university workers, withdraw the instruction to vice chancellors to implement punitive pay deductions; and further calls on the Government to demand employers resolve the dispute.

1166Statutory Assessment Tests

Tabled: 15/05/23 Signatories: 14

Mike Amesbury

Mary Kelly Foy

Kate Hollern

Jon Trickett

Ian Mearns

Nadia Whittome

This House notes that the Y6 SAT reading tests on 10 May were not acceptable; notes they had a negative impact on children, left many visibly upset and made many children feel like failures because they could not finish the tests; notes SATs have a negative impact on children’s mental health and well being; further notes that children are putting themselves under immense pressure to perform well in these tests; observes that research has shown that SATs can lead to increased anxiety, stress and even depression in children; believes that SATs can be detrimental to the overall learning experience of children; further notes that SATs have been criticised by the teaching profession and parents for placing undue pressure on our children; further believes that well-designed tests should inform parents and high schools how well children are doing but that unfortunately many teachers and parents believe the current Y6 SATs arrangement fails on both measures and place undue pressure on our children; further believes that there needs to be a review of the SAT tests; and concludes that we need to find a solution to the negative impact of SATs on the mental health and well being of children.

1167Foster Care Fortnight, 15-28 May 2023

Tabled: 15/05/23 Signatories: 24

Grahame Morris

Jonathan Edwards

Margaret Ferrier

Mary Kelly Foy

Kate Hollern

Jon Trickett

This House recognises the importance of foster care in providing loving and stable homes for children unable to live with their families; acknowledges the significant impact foster care has on the well-being and life opportunities of these children; supports Foster Care Fortnight between 15 and 28 May 2023, an initiative organised by The Fostering Network, a leading fostering charity; believes the campaign presents an invaluable opportunity to raise awareness about the urgent need for more foster families and to highlight the positive outcomes that can be achieved through foster care; welcomes the efforts of Foster Care Fortnight in encouraging individuals and families to consider becoming foster carers and highlights the crucial role that well-matched placements play in ensuring positive experiences and successful outcomes for children in foster care; furthermore, calls on Ministers to recognise and properly reward the exceptional contribution made by foster carers to our society, ensuring ongoing support, training and resources are accessible to allow foster carers to deliver the best possible care to children; urges the Government to invest in comprehensive support programs that address the unique needs and challenges faced by foster carers; and finally encourages all Members to actively promote Foster Care Fortnight within their constituencies and engage with local fostering services to raise awareness, recruit foster carers, and support the vital work they do.

1169Potential merits of new legislation on mandatory corporate due diligence

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 30

Tony Lloyd

Caroline Lucas

Ben Lake

Alison Thewliss

Wera Hobhouse

Sammy Wilson

This House welcomes the campaign for a new UK mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence law in connection with supply chains; notes that more than 100,000 people in the UK have signed a petition asking the Government to hold business, finance and the public sector to account when they fail to prevent supply chain human rights abuses and environmental harms; notes also that businesses and investors have backed such legislation to level the playing field, and that similar laws are being introduced in other countries; and calls on the Government to adopt such a law as soon as possible.

11702023 Welsh Disc Golf Open at Felin Geri

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 8

Ben Lake

Jonathan Edwards

Hywel Williams

Liz Saville Roberts

Patrick Grady

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates the organisers of the 2023 Welsh Open held at Felin Geri, Cwm Cou, as part of both the Quaich Tour and the BDGA Pro Am Tour; commends the contestants for the high quality of play and the positivity of the event; notes that Disc Golf is growing in popularity; looks forward to the establishment of further Disc Golf courses in Wales and the UK; and encourages people to reach out to their local disc golf association to get involved with this fun, social, and accessible sport.

1171Kandy Bar Bakery

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 5

Patricia Gibson

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

Chris Law

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Kandy Bar of Saltcoats, West Kilbride and Kilwinning on adding to its already numerous accolades by winning awards at the Scottish Baker of the Year awards ceremony 2023; understands that this unique competition, organised by Scottish Bakers, receives over 630 submissions of baked goods from 70 bakeries, which are tasted by 50 industry experts who evaluate their appearance, baking quality and taste; recognises the achievements of the Kandy Bar in gaining national bronze awards and regional silver award for their Scotch morning rolls as well as a national bronze award for their potato scones and a regional bronze award for their party faced biscuits; acknowledges that this recognition comes in the wake of its previous wins at the 22nd World Championship Scotch Pie Awards of 2022; appreciates that the Scottish Baker of the Year awards recognise the excellence and creativity required to provide quality fresh produce, made from locally sourced ingredients; further understands that the Kandy Bar is a family business, which is well patronised by local residents; commends the owners Stephen and Rona McAllister who, with their dedicated and skilled staff, work so diligently in the bakery’s fast paced environment; is aware that Kandy Bar, established in 1929 by the McAllister family, has become an institution across North Ayrshire; and wishes the bakery and its staff continued success providing products and service to customers across North Ayrshire.

1172Christian Aid Week 2023

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 11

Jim Shannon

Patrick Grady

Neale Hanvey

Chris Stephens

Tim Farron

Sir Mike Penning

That this House celebrates Christian Aid Week 2023, marked from 14 to 20 May 2023; notes that for over 75 years, they have stood together in solidarity with some of the world's most marginalised global neighbours of all different faiths; further notes the tremendous work undertaken in helping those in poverty and that Christian Aid seeks to eradicate extreme poverty by tackling its root causes; highlights the importance of their four values of equality, dignity, justice and love, and how these are motivators in helping to achieve the best for other people who are less fortunate; further highlights hope being founded on God's promise of a world without poverty, where everyone has life in all its fullness, and that we can get to a place where the world can be restored and transformed; thanks them dearly for their work to those who are struggling globally; and wishes them all the best for another 10 years of success and dedication to others.

1174Access to justice and challenges to parking fines

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 3

Mr Barry Sheerman

Chris Stephens

Rachael Maskell

That this House notes the importance of private car park provision in urban areas; is aware of the need for ticketing systems and consequent fines for users not abiding by car park regulations; highlights the need for fair and equitable access to justice; acknowledges the requirement for the County Court Business Centre to allow adequate processes for individuals wishing to challenge court fine decisions; is concerned by the efficiency of the County Court Business Centre to accommodate such requirements; regrets the difficulty for people to obtain justice within current County Court Business Centre provisions; and calls on the Ministry of Justice to further support the County Court Business Centre to provide fair and transparent access to justice.

1175The DalesRail service

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 2

Tim Farron

Rachael Maskell

That this House recognises the value of the DalesRail charter service which connects Blackpool, Blackburn and Clitheroe to the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbria; is saddened at Northern Rail’s cancellation of the charter for summer 2023; understands its importance in increasing tourism and hospitality to the area; appreciates its role in enabling families, walking groups and people young and old to explore more of the North West; identifies its crucial ability to ease congestion on small, busy roads and reducing the amount of carbon we emit in our national parks; and calls on Northern to fix its ongoing staffing issues so that the DalesRail service may be up and running for people to enjoy the Yorkshire Dales and the Eden Valley next summer.

1176National Union of Journalists' proposed strike action in Northern Ireland

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 6

Colum Eastwood

Mary Kelly Foy

Neale Hanvey

Chris Stephens

Ian Lavery

Rachael Maskell

That this House commends the National Union of Journalists for its planned strike action aimed at opposing cuts to jobs and programmes across the BBC in Northern Ireland; recognises the need to maintain local programming such as the Radio Foyle Breakfast show, which has been cut by BBC executives; further recognises the vital role played by Radio Foyle in providing news, information and entertainment to the people of Northern Ireland; acknowledges the adverse impact that these cuts would have on the quality and diversity of media coverage in the region; notes the importance of independent journalism in promoting transparency, accountability and democratic discourse; and urges the Government and BBC executives to reverse the cuts and engage in meaningful dialogue with the National Union of Journalists and other stakeholders to ensure the preservation of essential media services in Northern Ireland.

1178Funding for the Pathway Fund in Northern Ireland

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 4

Colum Eastwood

Chris Stephens

Chris Law

Jim Shannon

That this House expresses deep concern and disappointment regarding the proposed termination of the Pathway Fund in Northern Ireland as announced by the Department of Education following cuts imposed by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland; notes the devastating impact this decision will have on the 13 registered providers of early years education and learning provision within Foyle constituency; further notes the significant positive outcomes achieved by these organisations in supporting children at risk of educational disadvantage; recognises the crucial role of early years investment in building a strong foundation for children's future development; acknowledges the importance of access to safe and nurturing environments for disadvantaged children and the severe consequences of job losses and reduced services resulting from the removal of the Pathway Fund; and urges the Department of Education and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to reverse the cuts and guarantee the continuation of the Pathway Fund beyond June 2023.

1179Derry Girls receipt of BAFTA TV Awards

Tabled: 16/05/23 Signatories: 13

Colum Eastwood

Mary Kelly Foy

Grahame Morris

Patrick Grady

Chris Stephens

Alison Thewliss

That this House congratulates the cast, crew and production team of Derry Girls for their outstanding achievements at the BAFTA TV Awards; commends Lisa McGee, the show’s writer, on receiving the BAFTA for scripted comedy, and Siobhán McSweeney for winning the award for best female performance in a comedy programme; acknowledges the significant impact of Derry Girls in capturing the spirit of teenage life during the Troubles in Northern Ireland; recognises the show’s ability to find humour in challenging circumstances and its universal appeal; and appreciates the dedication and talent displayed by the entire Derry Girls team in promoting a positive version of Derry City and its people.

1180150th anniversary of the death of David Livingstone

Tabled: 17/05/23 Signatories: 11

Chris Law

Alison Thewliss

Chris Stephens

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Hywel Williams

That this House marks the 150th anniversary of the death of David Livingstone, who remains one of the UK’s most well-known historical figures; acknowledges Livingstone’s remarkable life as the son of a mill-worker from Blantyre, who was initially self-taught and qualified as a medical doctor at the University of Glasgow, before later leading mapping and exploration expeditions in Central and East Africa; recognises the stance he took against slavery and his continued remembrance in East Africa and particularly Malawi, where he spent much of his life; understands that, viewed through a modern lens, Livingstone’s legacy like many of his era can be challenging, however believes this offers us an opportunity to review our role and understanding of the UK’s connection with Africa through his life; notes that a major refurbishment has been completed at the The David Livingstone Birthplace Museum in Blantyre, a museum and centre for exploring historic and contemporary experiences of black history and colonisation; further notes that the David Livingstone Trust has begun exploring how Livingstone’s life and legacy retains relevance in a society that has, over the last century, radically re-evaluated many of the areas that his life touched on, including but not limited to spirituality and faith, colonialism and slavery, and the UK’s relationship with Africa; and commends the ambition of the David Livingstone Trust to use his legacy as the catalyst for the formation of a National Centre for the Study of the UK’s Colonial Legacy at Blantyre.

1181Extrajudicial executions in Iran (No. 2)

Tabled: 17/05/23 Signatories: 12

John McDonnell

Mary Kelly Foy

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

Chris Stephens

Liz Saville Roberts

This House is deeply concerned by the extrajudicial executions of Shademan Ahmadi, Atefeh Naami, Emad Heidari Nokish, Esmail Dezvar,Saman Ghaderpor, Matin Nasri, Samira Ebrahimi, Sarina Shiri, Mohamad Abdullahi, Esmail Dazvar, Mohamad Abdullahi, Ali Bani Asad by the Iranian state; sends condolences to the family and friends of the victims; condemns the actions of the Iranian regime in perpetrating these crimes; and urges the Government to call on the Islamic Republic of Iran to stop executing protestors and to stop violating women's and other citizen's rights and freedoms.

1182International Day of Solidarity with Political Prisoners in Belarus

Tabled: 17/05/23 Signatories: 12

Tony Lloyd

Chris Stephens

Chris Law

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Hywel Williams

That this House notes the International Day of Solidarity with Political Prisoners in Belarus on 21 May designated by the Viasna Human Rights Centre and further promoted by the Office of the National Leader of Belarus Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya; highlights that 21 May was chosen in memory of Vitold Ashurak, a political activist who died in a penal colony in Belarus on 21 May 2021; is aware that Viasna has now recognised nearly 1500 people as political prisoners in Belarus and has documented a daily average of 17 detentions; highlights the case of the founder of Viasna, Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski, himself now a political prisoner sentenced to a 10 year term; further highlights the case of journalist Raman Pratasevich, detained in 2021 after his flight from Athens to Vilnius was forced to land by the Belarusian authorities and sentenced to 8 years in prison; condemns the death in a penal colony on 7 May of Mikalai Klimovich, jailed for posting an online caricature of dictator Aliaksandr Lukashenka; expresses concern about the welfare of former presidential contender Viktar Babaryka, hospitalised in April after reportedly being beaten in prison; highlights several politically-motivated trials that are still ongoing, including that of Yana Pinchuk, whose trial began on 10 April and about which there has been no information since; and calls on the Lukashenka regime to release all political prisoners, respect human rights, and enable a transition to democracy.

1183Relocating Parliament

Tabled: 18/05/23 Signatories: 4

Hywel Williams

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Jonathan Edwards

That this House is deeply concerned by a report by the Commons Public Accounts Committee which suggests that the Palace of Westminster it at risk of being destroyed by a catastrophic incident; notes that Members voted to move out the palace in 2018 to allow repair work to take place; further notes the report’s findings that under continued presence on the estate, the works may end up lasting as long as 76 years, and cost as much as £22 billion; is increasingly concerned by the exorbitant cost to the taxpayer as well as the serious risks involved for all those working on the estate; renews its calls for members, peers and staff to relocate for their own safety while the renewal of the historic building takes place; and suggests that this be an opportunity for the House to address the regional inequalities of the UK by relocating the UK Parliament to an area outside of the South East.

1184Zero hours contracts

Tabled: 18/05/23 Signatories: 23

Ian Lavery

Andy McDonald

Rebecca Long Bailey

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Ian Byrne

John McDonnell

That this House notes the data released by The Office for National Statistics that shows that 1.1 million UK workers are employed on zero hours contracts, a ten fold increase since 2004; understands that in England 3.5 percent of those in work, have no set hours, meaning they are often unaware of how many shifts they will work each week or what they will be paid, this includes 33,000 workers in the North East; notes that the comparative figures for the rest of the UK are Northern Ireland 1.3 per cent, Wales 2.8 per cent and Scotland 3.9 per cent; believes that sectors such as food and accommodation, health and social care and elementary occupations use zero hours contracts the most and that young people, especially those working and in full time education and workers born outside of the UK are disproportionately affected by this form of precarious employment; and calls on the UK and devolved Governments, public bodies and businesses to take action to end the use of zero hours contracts across the economy.

1185Reopening of the West Boathouse on Glasgow Green

Tabled: 18/05/23 Signatories: 4

Alison Thewliss

Allan Dorans

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Jim Shannon

That this House welcomes the grand reopening of the West Boathouse on Glasgow Green on Sunday, May 14; acknowledges that the boathouse acts as a central base for three Glasgow rowing clubs, Clyde Amateur Rowing Club, Clydesdale Amateur Rowing Club, and Strathclyde University Boat Club; notes that the reopening event, Up the Watter, was attended by more than 250 people and included a ceremony where a specially commissioned flag was carried on boat down the River Clyde where it was raised, as well as an afternoon of crafting activities, tours, rowing demonstrations and music; recognises that since its initial opening in 1905, the West Boathouse has played a central role in Glasgow's sporting and community life; congratulates ARPL Architects and Glasgow Building Preservation Trust on their successful restoration and futureproofing of the building, which has included improvements in accessibility, flexible multi-use spaces, and a bespoke pontoon for easier access to the river; appreciates the contributions of all of the building's funders, including the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, the Robertson Trust, Glasgow City Council and the William Grant Foundation; and wishes all involved the best in all future endeavours.

1186Conduct of the Rt hon. Member for Uxbridge and South Ruislip and legal funding

Tabled: 18/05/23 Signatories: 19

Karl Turner

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Hywel Williams

Mary Kelly Foy

Mrs Emma Lewell-Buck

That this House expresses deep concern over the decision to make taxpayers fund the legal bill of the Rt hon. Member for Uxbridge and South Ruislip for advice and assistance on the inquiry by the Committee on Privileges into the allegations that the Rt hon. Member misled the House in relation to social gatherings held in Downing Street during the covid-19 national lockdown; notes that the Treasury did not sign off this funding; considers that it is unacceptable that taxpayers are being forced to foot the bill, not least given that the Rt hon. Member has earned a reported £5 million since he stepped down as Prime Minister; also believes that it is particularly troubling that any other individual requiring legal advice and assistance through legal aid would not be eligible if their gross annual income exceeded £12,475; regrets that the legal bill has now passed £245,000; notes that this is a significant cost to the taxpayer; further considers that it is inappropriate for public funds to be used in this manner, not least during a cost of living crisis in which most families are struggling to manage; unequivocally condemns the Rt hon. Member’s decision to request taxpayer funding for his legal bill; calls on the Government to ensure that taxpayers’ money is not used in the future for such purposes; and urges the Rt hon. Member to pay his own legal fees and not to rely on the British taxpayer to foot the bill.

1187Northwich Victoria Football Club

Tabled: 18/05/23 Signatories: 2

Mike Amesbury

Jim Shannon

That this House expresses its disappointment with the Football Association decision to move Northwich Victoria Football Club to the Midlands League; notes that other grassroots football teams are being moved to the Midlands league; further notes that Northwich Victoria are a North West Club and now its 149 year history has been put in jeopardy; is concerned by the financial implications the move would have and that the player availability of the current squad could mean they may not be able to continue as a football club; notes the club regrets that there has been no correspondence or dialogue with the Football Association on the impact this will have with community clubs across the country and that the community clubs have over 20 plus junior teams and 400 children playing under the banner of Northwich Victoria; regrets that this move will have an immediate effect on its status as a community accredited football club as created by the Football Association; and believes if the move goes ahead it will be impossible for it to continue as a club and stay solvent due to the additional financial cost that will be incurred.

118890th anniversary of the Council for At-Risk Academics

Tabled: 18/05/23 Signatories: 21

Sir Julian Lewis

John Spellar

Sir Graham Brady

Sarah Green

Bob Blackman

Alan Brown

That this House celebrates the 90th anniversary of the Council for At-Risk Academics (Cara), a charity founded – as the Academic Assistance Council – at the The Royal Society on 22 May 1933 by leading academics and scientists in the UK to rescue their counterparts in Nazi Germany who were being forced out of their posts; notes with approval the subsequent widening of Cara’s mission to rescue university academics and their families at risk from persecution, violence and conflict anywhere in the world; congratulates Cara for helping thousands of academics to find refuge and work in the UK and its universities, where they have greatly contributed to this country’s scientific, cultural and artistic life; applauds the vital role of UK universities and research institutes in working in partnership with Cara to provide places, funding and other essential support for those whom Cara rescues, as well as the generosity of the many foundations, other institutions and individuals who also support Cara’s work; commends the determination of many current Cara scholars, most recently from Ukraine, Afghanistan and the Middle East, to return home when they can safely do so, in order to help build better societies in their own countries; and encourages Cara to continue and redouble its life-changing efforts.

1189Promotion of Abercynon RFC, Aberdare RFC and Abercwmboi RFC

Tabled: 18/05/23 Signatories: 6

Beth Winter

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Hywel Williams

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the promotion of Cynon Valley rugby clubs Abercynon RFC, Aberdare RFC and Abercwmboi RFC to Welsh Rugby Union League 1 East Central; notes the efforts the clubs have put into developing their own Mini, Junior and Youth sections; further notes they will join Mountain Ash RFC and Ynysybwl RFC in the same league; believes this is the first time five teams from Cynon Valley have been represented in that division; congratulates each club's officials, players volunteers and supporters; and commends the continued flourishing of rugby union in the valley and the role of local rugby clubs for providing a positive contribution and focal point for community life.

11902023 Cambuslang and Rutherglen Sports Council Awards

Tabled: 18/05/23 Signatories: 2

Margaret Ferrier

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates each of the winners at the 2023 Cambuslang and Rutherglen Sports Council Awards: Burgh Primary School, Stonelaw High School, Cambuslang and Stonelaw Under 14s Rugby Club, Abbie Fountain, Sophia Martin, Katy Baird, Kai Hunter, Craig Burnett and Billy Hepburn; commends the commitment, hard work and talent displayed by each of the award recipients; acknowledges the important role sport plays in young people’s development; and thanks the Cambuslang and Rutherglen Sports Council for their work in recognising sporting ability in the community.