Commons business papers

Contents

Published: Tuesday 23 January 2024

Early Day Motions tabled on Monday 22 January 2024

Early Day Motions (EDMs) are motions for which no days have been fixed.

The number of signatories includes all members who have added their names in support of the Early Day Motion (EDM), including the Member in charge of the Motion.

EDMs and added names are also published on the EDM database at www.parliament.uk/edm

[R] Indicates that a relevant interest has been declared.

New EDMs

30415th anniversary of Fairweather Drop-in Group

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 1

Kirsten Oswald

That this House congratulates all involved with the Fairweather Drop-in Group, who meet at Fairweather Hall, Newton Mearns, on the 15th anniversary of the foundation of the group; applauds the multi-cultural and multi-faith nature of the group, which welcomes over 50s from all sections of the local community to join their weekly drop-in sessions; understands that attendees come together in a spirit of cross-cultural friendship, which is central to the operation of the group; notes that the group meets every Thursday from 12.45pm to 3.30pm at Fairweather Hall, Barrhead Road, Newton Mearns; further applauds the wide variety of areas of interest facilitated by the group, which has included activities such as bingo, board games, cards, discussions, weekly yoga sessions, educational trips, art tuition and more; appreciates that the group incorporates a lunch club, which caters for both vegetarian and non vegetarian diets; further notes the important contribution that Fairweather Drop-in makes to preventing loneliness and fostering friendships, as well as the boost felt by members in their mental wellbeing; appreciates that the group received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2017 in recognition of the important contribution the group makes in the local community; applauds the tireless work of all involved in sustaining the club and keeping it relevant to those attending over the past 15 years; and wishes Fairweather Drop-in continued success.

305Hillingdon council's over 65 discount scheme

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 1

John McDonnell

That this House congratulates Mr Ian Clarke for his campaign to expose age discrimination by the London Borough of Hillingdon in its reform of the council’s over 65 discount scheme, in which means testing was introduced in an arbitrary and discriminatory manner; considers that the council’s argument that the production and consideration of an impact assessment provides the legal cover for this discriminatory policy decision is neither legally nor morally convincing; for that reason urges the council to reconsider its decision; and notes that Government ministers have equally failed to intervene to prevent this abuse of power by Hillingdon council.

306Inheritance tax

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 1

Jon Trickett

That this House objects to suggestions that the Government should cut or scrap inheritance tax in the forthcoming Budget; notes that inheritance tax revenues amount to around £7 billion a year; further notes that in the year 2020 to 2021 only 3.73% of UK deaths resulted in an inheritance tax charge; recognises that although only 27% of the UK population live in London and the South East, 42% of estates paying inheritance tax are located in these regions; also recognises that the larger the value of the estate the lower the rate of inheritance tax you tend to pay as a result of reliefs, exemptions and tax avoidance measures; understands that a cut to inheritance tax will financially benefit a small minority of UK citizens but the cost to the Exchequer will weaken the public finances on which all UK citizens rely in some form; believes that cutting or scrapping inheritance tax is the wrong priority for the upcoming Budget; calls on the Government to use the Budget to prioritise investing in our crumbling public services and to reduce the tax burden on those on low and middle incomes; and also calls on the Government to develop long-term proposals to reform the tax system to suit the modern economy so that wealth is taxed on parity with income.

307Bedford MS Therapy Centre

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 1

Mohammad Yasin

That this House congratulates the Bedford MS Therapy Centre in Bedford, for their recent award of £420,000 over five years from the National Lottery Community Fund; recognises the fantastic and innovative work the organisation does for people with MS in Bedford and beyond, in particular with neuro-physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, gym sessions and other activities such as Pilates and tai chi; acknowledges that these services are offered free to people with MS at considerable cost to the organisation; considers the implications for many people with MS if further, secure funding streams are not found; and ultimately wishes the centre's members, staff, volunteers and trustees continued success and support in the future.

308Right to Buy (No. 2)

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 1

Caroline Lucas

That this House notes that around 2 million council homes in England have been sold off to private individuals well below market value since the inception of the Right to Buy in 1980; further notes these homes were built using public money to create an essential collective asset fundamental to the post World War Two settlement; believes Right to Buy has been abused by property speculators and has decimated precious social housing stock as successive governments failed to replace the social homes being lost; supports the 2022 UK Housing Review conclusion that Right to Buy was a strategic failure; is concerned that the state is now giving billions in housing benefit to private landlords that should be invested in building new council housing; recognises the link between Right to Buy and the harmful commodification of housing, housing inequality and shortages for people on low incomes, the current homelessness crisis and record rates of children living in temporary accommodation; further believes that council housing needs to be provided and safeguarded for the housing needs and wellbeing of current and future generations; welcomes the abolition of Right to Buy in Scotland and Wales; and calls on the Government to protect and strengthen social housing by following suit in England, starting with an immediate suspension of all discounts, at the same time as investing in an ambitious programme to build new council homes.

309Personal Independence Payment processing times

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 1

Jon Trickett

That this House raises concerns about the Department for Work and Pensions' management of Personal Independence Payments (PIP); notes that a number of constituents in Hemsworth constituency have reported long delays in the processing of PIP claims and changes of circumstances, which can have a significant negative impact on the finances and health of claimants; further notes the Department for Work and Pensions' announcement on 22 January 2023 warning PIP claimants that they may be taken to court if they do not report a range of changes in circumstances; believes that this warning from the Department for Work and Pensions will cause a great deal of concern to those claiming PIP and could lead to even longer delays in processing PIP claims; and calls on the Government to review PIP with the aim of reducing the delays experienced and making the system easier and less stressful for claimants.

310Ireland men's hockey team qualify for Olympics

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the qualification of the Ireland senior men's hockey team securing the twelfth and final spot at the Olympic Games, winning a 4-3 triumph over Korea; notes the fantastic goals from Matthew Nelson, Ben Johnson, John McKee and Shane O'Donoghue; highlights the consistent efforts of all players and the hard work ahead before the Games in the summer, including the FIH Pro League; further highlights all eight Ulster players who contributed to this great win; and wishes all of the team the best of luck for the Olympic Games this summer in Paris.

311Rory McIlroy success at Dubai Desert Classic

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House notes the success of Rory McIlroy at the DP World Tours Hero Dubai Desert Classic yesterday, for a record fourth time with a one stroke victory on Sunday; further notes his fantastic representation of Northern Ireland in golf and his admirable dedication to the sport, which is inspirational to so many; wishes Rory every success for the future; and sends him congratulations for his most recent win in Dubai.

312Dr Ofer Cassif

Tabled: 22/01/24 Signatories: 2

Jeremy Corbyn

Apsana Begum

That this House acknowledges the plight of Dr Ofer Cassif, Member of Israeli Knesset of the Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) who currently faces unconstitutional expulsion from the Israeli Knesset on the grounds of supporting armed struggle against the state following his signature on a petition supporting South Africa’s appeal to the International Court of Justice (ICJ); recognises that Dr Cassif simply insists upon an end to the bloodshed, death and destruction in Gaza and calls for the release of all hostages, as well as for a lasting just peace in the interest of both Israelis and Palestinians; applauds the courage it takes for Israelis to express sympathy and solidarity with innocent Palestinian victims and speak out against their Government’s actions particularly at this time amidst repression and harassment; and furthermore supports all calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

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.

242Compensation for Equitable Life policyholders

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 40

Dr Philippa Whitford

Ronnie Cowan

Patricia Gibson

Kirsten Oswald

Deidre Brock

Martyn Day

That this House recognises the financial, personal and social impact on policy holders following the collapse of Equitable Life Assurance Society; calls on the Treasury to ensure that all of the 1.5 billion pounds set aside for the Equitable Life Payments Scheme, is distributed to Equitable Life policyholders who suffered financial loss due to regulatory maladministration; and further calls on the Treasury to establish a fair distribution of payments following detailed consultation with policyholders and their representatives.

243Pension restitution for women born in the 1950s

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 57

Kim Johnson

Claudia Webbe

Sir Jeffrey M Donaldson

Claire Hanna

Jim Shannon

Mick Whitley

That this House welcomes the positive interventions from so many hon. Members from across the House on behalf of women born in the 1950s who have suffered pensions loss through the targeting of their pension rights; pays tribute to constituents and campaigners in their ongoing fight for justice; recalls that women born in the 1950s were subject to discriminatory laws; and encourages the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to join mediation, noting there are no impediments to doing so.

246Radiotherapy

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 13

Tim Farron

Jim Shannon

Sarah Dyke

Rachael Maskell

Christine Jardine

Wera Hobhouse

That this House acknowledges the pressing need to reduce treatment waiting times for cancer patients across the country, given only 58.2% of patients begin treatment within the recommended maximum 62 days from referral; recognises the need for a National Cancer Control Plan that improves cancer outcomes by delivering patient-centred, equitable and data-informed cancer control that empowers clinical frontline staff; further recognises that radiotherapy is a key cancer treatment required by 50% of all cancer patients; notes that with the integration of modern radiotherapy technology, IT, and AI developments, radiotherapy has the potential to significantly reduce waiting times and improve survival in a cost-effective way; further notes with concern that many radiotherapy treatment machines are currently operating beyond their recommended lifespan of 10 years, with 74 due to be replaced by the end of 2024; particularly regrets that millions of people live outside the recommended 45-minute travel time for treatment, especially those in rural areas like Westmorland and Lonsdale, where average travel time is between two and four hours per treatment; further acknowledges the importance of increasing radiotherapy access from the current 27% to the international standard of 50-63% to ensure enough treatment capacity for NHS early diagnosis ambitions to translate into early stage cures; and therefore calls on the Government to ensure that sufficient NHS capital investment is directed towards unlocking the full potential of radiotherapy as a high-tech, cost-effective, and vital cancer treatment method as part of creating a National Cancer Control Plan, which will significantly reduce the backlog.

250Illegal street racing

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 8

Sarah Green

Richard Foord

Jim Shannon

Sarah Dyke

Christine Jardine

Carla Lockhart

That this House condemns illegal street racing and other vehicle nuisance; is concerned by the safety and anti-social impact of such activity; recognises the detrimental impact that such activity has on communities and individuals; welcomes the recent trials of noise cameras that detect illegal and excessively noisy vehicles; and calls on the Government to provide all relevant organisations with sufficient financial and human resources to tackle illegal street racing and other vehicle nuisance.

251School Meals Coalition

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 25

Sir Stephen Timms

Mrs Sharon Hodgson

Mr Clive Betts

Caroline Lucas

Liz Saville Roberts

Chris Stephens

That this House welcomes the creation of the School Meals Coalition; notes the Coalition is a partnership of 96 countries, with responsibility for over 60 percent of the world’s population, spanning the full range of geographies and across high, middle and low-income countries; congratulates the Coalition in supporting the reinstatement of school meals programmes following the closure of schools as a result of covid-19; further welcomes the fact that in 2022, 418 million children benefited from school meals compared to 388 million in 2020; further notes the importance of school meals as they protect and support children’s health and education while additionally providing wider societal benefits; calls upon the Government to join the School Meals Coalition; and commits to supporting the Coalition’s goal that every primary school aged child globally receives a healthy nutritious meal every day in school by 2030.

253Sub-postmasters

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 87

Kate Osborne

Ian Byrne

Ian Mearns

Richard Burgon

John McDonnell

Clive Efford

That this House notes the increased awareness of the life-changing injustices experienced by sub-postmasters throughout the Horizon scandal; further notes it is now known as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in British history; notes with concern that sub-postmasters have served custodial sentences, suffered bankruptcy for offences they did not commit and many have died before seeing justice; expresses concern that the actions of the Post Office and the Government have prolonged this crisis and added barriers to justice being achieved; further notes that the Post Office has repeatedly been exposed for having given out false and misleading information throughout this scandal and should play no part in determining who is entitled to compensation or how much they should get; and strongly urges the Government to take action to ensure full compensation is paid, the remaining convictions are looked at en masse, that justice prevail for all postmasters and that those responsible for this gross miscarriage of justice are held accountable.

254Short-term medical evacuation of children from Gaza

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 35

John McDonnell

Claudia Webbe

Claire Hanna

Jonathan Edwards

Mick Whitley

Cat Smith

That this House welcomes the work of Saving Gaza's Children, an NGO dedicated to supporting the children of Gaza to receive life-saving and time-critical, emergency medical care required as a result of the Israel-Gaza conflict by identifying children in dire need of medical evacuation and securing their evacuation to host states which are currently better equipped to manage their complex and often life-threatening medical needs, liaising directly with Gazan medical teams and the Palestinian Ministry of Health, and working closely with the child's legal guardian to monitor his or her diagnosis, progress, and prognosis whilst remaining sensitive to the fact that Palestinians feel strongly that their children should return to Palestine and paying special attention to ensuring that children are evacuated through documented safe passages and that all necessary protocols are followed to ensure a child's safe return with a focus on supporting injured children back into Palestinian society ensuring that they receive all the support they need to live as normal a life as possible; and urges the Government urgently to liaise with the Egyptian and Palestinian Health Ministries to assist NGOs such as Saving Gaza’s Children to create a short-term medical evacuation programme from Gaza to the UK much like the scheme that worked effectively to support Ukrainian children.

255Government legal advice on Gaza

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 28

Jon Trickett

Claudia Webbe

Mick Whitley

Mary Kelly Foy

Kim Johnson

Richard Burgon

That this House understands that questions have been raised internationally about the legality of the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza; recognises that in November 2023 UN experts raised the alarm about the risk of genocide in Gaza; highlights the UN General Secretary’s reasons for invoking Article 99 that there is a high risk of total collapse of the humanitarian support system in Gaza, which would have devastating consequences; further highlights his comments to the Security Council that international humanitarian law includes the duty to protect civilians and to comply with the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution and that the laws of war also demand that civilians’ essential needs must be met, including by facilitating the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian relief; notes the Spanish Prime Minister’s comments that he has serious doubts that Israel is complying with international humanitarian law; further notes the letter signed by prominent Israeli public figures to the Attorney General in December 2023 which said there have been explicit calls to commit atrocious crimes against millions of civilians, providing evidence of the discourse of annihilation, expulsion and revenge; acknowledges the case South Africa has brought to the International Court of Justice claiming Israel’s treatment of Palestinians is tantamount to genocidal actions; and calls on the Government to publish in full the legal advice it has received from its law officers regarding the situation in Gaza, particularly in the run up to UN votes, and the legality of the UK export licensing of arms to the Israel.

256Scottish Government's industrial strategy

Tabled: 8/01/24 Signatories: 25

Douglas Chapman

Jonathan Edwards

Chris Law

Ronnie Cowan

Anne McLaughlin

Stewart Hosie

That this House recognises the UK's low growth, poor productivity and high debt economy which has been a feature of the UK's economic demise over many decades; now welcomes the recent statement by Scotland's First Minister to establish an industrial strategy to help reverse the most negative impacts of UK economic policy on the people of Scotland, while rejecting the mantra of the Governor of the Bank of England which warned the people across the UK to prepare to be poorer; supports the First Minister of Scotland's statement on the Scottish economy which would focus on (a) joining the EU to have unfettered access to the world's largest single market, (b) creating a dynamic government ministry to drive industrial policy and build consensus across sectors and institutions and (c) committing to large scale public investment in key areas of comparative advantage; and further recognises that Scotland, as an independent country, would have all the ingredients, skills and valuable resources to be a successful, high growth, high wage, modern economy and a member of the EU where the national mantra would be prepare to be prosperous.

259JPR Williams

Tabled: 9/01/24 Signatories: 7

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Sir Mike Penning

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

Hywel Williams

This House mourns the passing of Welsh Rugby Union great John Peter Rhys (JPR) Williams at the age of 74; notes that JPR played at full back for Wales and the successful touring British Lions teams of 1971 and 1974; recognises that JPR won 55 caps for Wales between 1969 and 1981, captained his nation on five occasions and helped his country to win three Grand Slams; further recognises that he was capped by the British and Irish Lions on eight occasions; further notes that JPR was a talented tennis player in his youth and worked as a surgeon in his professional career; and sends its condolences to the family and friends of this great Welshman.

260NellyBoxes CIC

Tabled: 9/01/24 Signatories: 6

Kirsten Oswald

Jim Shannon

Angela Crawley

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates NellyBoxes CIC based in East Renfrewshire on their award of two grants from the National Lottery Community Fund; understands that NellyBoxes was founded in 2019 by Nicola McGowan who unfortunately experienced nine miscarriages over a period of six years; highlights that NellyBoxes provides a range of self-care boxes to parents who have experienced baby loss to support them at this most difficult time; notes the first National Lottery Community Fund grant of £10,000 will be used to continue the delivery of NellyBoxes’ hugely important baby bank, distributing basic goods such as baby clothes, toiletries, nappies, and milk with no need for referral; notes that this service operates from the Auchenback Resource Centre in Barrhead; further appreciates that the second grant of £9,998 will be used by NellyBoxes to engage young people in and around the Barrhead area in an entrepreneurship project, encouraging the young people to design, produce and market retails goods which will be sold at local shops; applauds the commitment of all involved with NellyBoxes and commends the fantastic work they do; and wishes NellyBoxes CIC the best with all its future endeavours.

261Anniversary of the Kegworth air disaster

Tabled: 9/01/24 Signatories: 6

Mr Gregory Campbell

Jim Shannon

Gavin Robinson

Sir Mike Penning

Carla Lockhart

John McDonnell

That this House notes that 8 January 2023 marked the 35th anniversary of the Kegworth air disaster when 47 people were killed and 74 seriously injured as British Midland flight 92 from Heathrow to Belfast suffered engine trouble and came down near Kegworth in Leicestershire; recognises that following the tragedy airlines across the world began providing cockpit resource management training to their staff and significant improvements to safety ensued; and expresses the hope that never again in air travel will it take such a tragic event to ensure improved and effective safety measures are implemented as standard practice.

262Michael Kirkum and the Points of Light award

Tabled: 9/01/24 Signatories: 4

Patricia Gibson

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates Michael Kirkum on recently receiving the Points of Light award from the Prime Minister; notes that this award recognises his work as an outstanding volunteer campaigning to raise money to secure Christmas gifts for children in Crosshouse University Hospital and other children’s groups, which has seen him dubbed as a real-life Santa Claus; applauds Michael for his work over the last decade, supporting local children, spreading joy to those spending Christmas in hospital; appreciates that his work has been so successful that he has expanded his efforts to include Easter as well, which in 2023 saw him completing his twelfth Easter egg appeal; commends Michael’s work with local businesses to help secure donations and his tireless organisation of local collection points for gifts; admires the fact that in 2023 Michael enjoyed this most successful Christmas appeal ever as he reached the admirable milestone of delivering over 20,000 gifts to children; further notes Michael’s fundraising through marathon challenges over the last thirty years through which he has raised thousands of pounds for charity; and commends Michael’s inspiring commitment to improving the lives of children in his community in Kilwinning and across Ayrshire.

265Gaza

Tabled: 10/01/24 Signatories: 5

Angus Brendan MacNeil

Neale Hanvey

Dr Philippa Whitford

Kenny MacAskill

John McDonnell

That this House believes there should be a weekly vote in the Commons calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, until there is a ceasefire, given the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza.

266UEFA European Football Championship 2024 fanzones

Tabled: 10/01/24 Signatories: 7

Douglas Chapman

Alison Thewliss

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

Chris Law

That this House calls on the Government to support, via local councils in England and the administrations in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, a special fund which would assist local communities to create safe and engaging fanzones for the UEFA European Football Championship matches being held in Germany between 14 June and 14 July 2024; congratulates both Scotland and England who have qualified for the finals; wishes Wales good luck as they are involved in the playoffs which could still see them qualify for the finals; recognises that, due to the cost of living crisis, some football fans may not be able to afford to travel to Germany and many others will be unsuccessful in obtaining tickets for any of the matches as they will be in high demand; and encourages the Government to evaluate this proposal for stay at home fans and to begin discussions with local government in England and other governments with devolved powers to explore how such an initiative might be best delivered.

267Flood resilience

Tabled: 11/01/24 Signatories: 6

Sarah Dyke

Tim Farron

Wendy Chamberlain

Rachael Maskell

Caroline Lucas

John McDonnell

That this House is concerned by the impact of flooding caused by the recent Storm Henk following a year of frequent flooding in many parts of the UK; supports calls for extreme weather resilience plans to be in place for all communities in identified catchment areas; notes the significant impact flooding has on people’s mental health and the anxiety it can cause; recognises that some of the most vulnerable people in society are unequally affected by flooding; understands that the increased cost burden on homeowners damaged by flood damage through increased insurance or uninsurable homes is significant; and calls on the Government to increase Environmental Agency funding in order to increase the flood resilience of communities across the UK.

268Hosting refugees and asylum seekers: Council Tax Single Person Discount

Tabled: 11/01/24 Signatories: 3

Sir Mike Penning

Rachael Maskell

John McDonnell

That this House calls on the Government to amend the Council Tax (Additional Provisions for Discount Disregards) Regulations 1992, so that refugees and asylum seekers with leave to remain being hosted in their home by a person living alone are disregarded for the Council Tax Single Person Discount; and notes that this is already the case for Ukrainian citizens permitted to stay in the United Kingdom under the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme.

269Holocaust Memorial Day

Tabled: 11/01/24 Signatories: 16

Bob Blackman

Sir Mike Penning

Alison Thewliss

Jonathan Edwards

Dr Lisa Cameron

Jim Shannon

That this House notes that on 27 January 2024 the UK will observe Holocaust Memorial Day on the anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration and death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau; further notes that the UK will come together to remember the 6 million Jewish men, women and children who were murdered and the millions of other victims of Nazi persecution; pays tribute to the Holocaust survivors, including many who share their testimony day in, day out, to ensure the horrors of the past are never forgotten; thanks the Holocaust Educational Trust for its work to educate every person from every background in the UK about the Holocaust and its contemporary relevance; pays tribute to the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust for organising the national Holocaust Memorial Day event; and urges all Right hon. and hon. Members to observe this day and to pledge to speak out against antisemitism, which in recent months has risen exponentially and which needs to be tackled head on.

271Proceedings instituted by South Africa against the State of Israel at the International Court of Justice

Tabled: 11/01/24 Signatories: 19

Hywel Williams

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Dr Philippa Whitford

Claire Hanna

Caroline Lucas

That this House recognises the continuing violence in Gaza which has resulted in over 23,000 deaths; welcomes South Africa’s request for provisional measures by the International Court of Justice to prevent acts of genocide; urges the Government to carefully consider the application as it upholds its duty to prevent genocide under the 1948 Genocide Convention and actively avoid complicity; continues to support those in the UK calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners and an end to the siege; and calls upon Israel to observe any resulting binding provisional measures aimed at protecting the human rights of Palestinians, including the cessation of fire.

274Winter food collection in Midlothian

Tabled: 15/01/24 Signatories: 5

Owen Thompson

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

That this House recognises the Tesco winter food collection project between November and December 2023; applauds the generosity of customers in Midlothian who donated 5,394 meals; acknowledges that two million meals’ worth of long-life food items were donated in stores across the country; further recognises that donations to the Trussell Trust help food banks provide emergency food parcels, while donations to FareShare support thousands of frontline local charities; thanks people in Midlothian for their immense generosity and support; and wishes the scheme every success in the future.

27710th anniversary of Creatovators

Tabled: 15/01/24 Signatories: 5

Amy Callaghan

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

That this House celebrates the 10th anniversary of Creatovators in East Dunbartonshire; thanks the organisation for a decade of unwavering commitments to supporting children on the autistic spectrum and their families; commends Creatovators for their invaluable work that has significantly enhanced the lives of so many by fostering a brighter and more inclusive future; acknowledges the profound impact the organisation has had over the past 10 years in shaping a path towards a better quality of life for those it serves; thanks Creatovators for their tireless work and dedication to create positive and transformative experiences for children living with autism; notes that promoting a better quality of life for primary-aged children on the autistic spectrum and their families is both commendable and essential; and wishes Creatovators all the very best in the years to come.

278Mairi Valentine

Tabled: 15/01/24 Signatories: 4

Amy Callaghan

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

That this House commends the outstanding dedication and fundraising efforts of Mairi Valentine, a remarkable individual who, following her diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, organised a heart-warming Christmas light turn-on at her home in Westerton, raising over £1,500 for the MS Society; recognises Mairi’s exceptional commitment to raising awareness of MS and her determination to make a positive impact in the lives of those affected by the condition; applauds the creativity and community spirit demonstrated in the organisation of the Christmas light display, which not only brought joy to the local community but also successfully raised vital funds for ongoing research and support for MS patients; extends heartfelt appreciation to Mairi Valentine for embodying the spirit of compassion, resilience, and generosity in the face of personal challenges; encourages the continued support and awareness-building efforts for MS, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity in the fight against this debilitating condition; and calls on hon. and Rt hon. Members to join in congratulating Mairi Valentine for her selfless contributions to the wider community and the MS cause.

279150th Anniversary of St. Ninian's High School, Kirkintilloch

Tabled: 15/01/24 Signatories: 4

Amy Callaghan

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

That this House warmly congratulates St. Ninian’s High School Kirkintilloch on reaching its remarkable milestone of 150 years of excellence in education and service to the community; notes that, founded in 1974, St. Ninian’s High School has been a beacon of education, enlightenment and community service in East Dunbartonshire; celebrates the school’s rich history, unwavering commitment to academic excellence and integral role in shaping the lives of generations of students in East Dunbartonshire; recognises St. Ninian’s High School’s outstanding achievement in being honoured with the Scottish Education Award in 2017 which underscores the school’s dedication to innovation, inclusivity, and high standards; also notes that St. Ninian’s High School demonstrated exemplary commitment to creating a positive learning environment, fostering community engagement, and achieving excellence in education; commends St Ninian’s High School and wishes staff and pupils well on its next chapter; expresses optimism for its continued success; and hopes that the school community continues to thrive and inspire for many more years to come.

282Pastor Iain and Elizabeth of King's Church, Aberdeen

Tabled: 16/01/24 Signatories: 3

Kirsty Blackman

Chris Law

Allan Dorans

That this House honours Pastor Iain and Elizabeth of King's Church, Aberdeen for 20 years of leadership and dedication; recognises their work brought faith and enrichment to the community; and wishes them and their family the best for the future.

284Journalists in Gaza

Tabled: 16/01/24 Signatories: 30

Grahame Morris

John McDonnell

Claire Hanna

Chris Stephens

Liz Saville Roberts

Jeremy Corbyn

That this House is profoundly shocked and saddened by the deaths of over 85 journalists and other media workers in Gaza since the Hamas attacks of October 7, with many more critically injured, missing or in detention without trial; believes that journalists in Gaza are the only ones standing between the truth and a total media blackout and that, without their work, the world would not bear witness to these atrocities; is alarmed by reports from the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate and the International Federation of Journalists that a further 80 press and media institutions were targeted by Israeli bombing, being totally or partially destroyed in Gaza; calls on the Government to urge the Israeli authorities to desist from targeting journalists or media organisations in these deadly attacks and accept the need to help de-escalate the cycle of violence which has resulted in the mass slaughter of civilians and a humanitarian catastrophe.

285Big Garden Bird Watch 2024

Tabled: 16/01/24 Signatories: 4

Jim Shannon

Mohammad Yasin

Rachael Maskell

Richard Burgon

That this House notes the 2024 Big Garden Bird Watch, the world's largest garden survey, in which thousands of nature lovers take part to help build a picture of how garden birds are faring every year; highlights that across the UK over half a million people took part in the Garden Watch 2023, counting 9.1 million birds with house sparrows taking the top spot followed in second place by blue tits; further notes that in the last 60 years we have lost 38 million birds from UK skies and that song thrush numbers are down by 80% since the survey first started in 1979; and thanks the RSPCA for organising this survey and for encouraging people across the whole of the UK to do our part to learn more about the environment we live in.

287Water quality in Sri Lanka

Tabled: 16/01/24 Signatories: 9

Munira Wilson

Sarah Dyke

Claudia Webbe

Wendy Chamberlain

Mr Gregory Campbell

Rachael Maskell

That this House expresses concern regarding water quality in northern Sri Lanka; is concerned by reports stating that the Sri Lankan Government refused to allow independent assessments of water quality in the region; notes that the consumption or use of water contaminated by waste oil has been linked to many diseases and birth defects; calls for steps to be taken to allow all citizens in northern Sri Lanka, the majority of whom are Tamils, to have access to clean drinking water; calls for the area around the Chunnakam power plant complex to be subjected to a full independent investigation; believes that organisations responsible for pollution of ground water in Chunnakam should have a duty to carry out remedial works; and further believes that all citizens affected by water contamination should be provided with competent medical follow-up and be compensated adequately by the Sri Lankan Government.

288Deaths of journalists in Gaza

Tabled: 16/01/24 Signatories: 22

John McDonnell

Mary Kelly Foy

Jonathan Edwards

Claire Hanna

Tahir Ali

Jeremy Corbyn

That this House expressers its extreme concern at the mounting and unprecedented death toll of journalists in Gaza; notes that the independent Committee to Protect Journalists has recorded the death of 82 journalists in this conflict since October 2023; welcomes the support provided by the National Union of Journalists for the efforts of the International Federation of Journalists to promote the safety of journalists; and urges the International Criminal Court to expedite its investigation into the evidence submitted of the systematic targeted attacks on journalists by Israeli forces.

29050th anniversary of Blackskull Orange and Blue Flute Band

Tabled: 16/01/24 Signatories: 2

Carla Lockhart

Paul Girvan

That this House congratulates Blackskull Orange and Blue Flute Band on reaching its 50th anniversary year; recognises the importance of marching bands to cultural expression in Northern Ireland; applauds the dedication of members of Blackskull Orange and Blue Flute Band throughout its 50 year existence to the bands development, and to making a positive impact on the local community through volunteering; and wishes the band well for its 50th year celebrations, and for the upcoming marching season.

291Classification and regulation of NHS medical associate roles and patient safety

Tabled: 17/01/24 Signatories: 8

Claudia Webbe

Jeremy Corbyn

John McDonnell

Mohammad Yasin

Richard Thomson

Kate Osborne

That this House believes that the renaming of NHS medical assistant roles to physician associate and anaesthesia associate is confusing the public by blurring the clear distinction between doctors and other professionals who do not have medical qualifications and training; believes that this misleads the public and notes with regret the case of Emily Chesterton, whom the coroner ruled should have been sent to hospital for emergency admission but was misdiagnosed by the same physician associate on both occasions and treated for a calf sprain; agrees that the planned regulation of these non-medical roles by the General Medical Council adds to this potentially dangerous confusion; notes that nine out of 10 doctors in a recent survey believe that the increased scope and number of these roles is dangerous to patients and highly misleading; further notes that the Royal College of GPs has opposed the Government’s planned expansion of these associate roles; calls on the Government to revert the titles of these roles immediately to their previous titles of Physician Assistant and Anaesthesia Assistant to ensure the safety of patients and the proper functioning of the NHS and to regulate them through the Health and Care Professions Council, as the British Medical Association has recommended; and further calls on the Government to ensure that the NHS Workforce Plan must fill physician roles with fully-qualified physicians, maintaining a clear distinction between medically-qualified roles and other roles.

292Young Lives vs Cancer

Tabled: 17/01/24 Signatories: 8

Paul Girvan

Mr Gregory Campbell

Jonathan Edwards

Rachael Maskell

Jim Shannon

Claudia Webbe

That this House notes the Young Lives vs Cancer report entitled Running on Empty which explores the costs that young cancer patients and their families face when travelling for treatment; expresses concern at the finding in the report that it costs young cancer patients and their families on average £250 per month and, depending on their location, can be far higher in some cases; expresses strong concern that, consequently, 27 per cent are having to cut back on food, 20 per cent are falling behind in paying bills, 20 per cent are having to sell their possessions, 10 per cent are having to delay or miss treatment and, in some cases, are having to give up their homes as they are unable to meet housing costs; further notes the report's conclusion that the current support available is inadequate with only 12 per cent of families receiving any support to cover travel costs; and supports Young Lives vs Cancer's call for the establishment of a Government-funded young cancer patient travel fund to address this unfairness.

293Angus gin

Tabled: 17/01/24 Signatories: 8

Dave Doogan

Kirsten Oswald

Richard Thomson

Dr Philippa Whitford

Drew Hendry

Chris Law

That this House congratulates the Gin Bothy on their gin being selected for this year’s Oscars nominee gift bags; commends the growth of this multi-award-winning business trading from Glamis in the heart of Angus and propelled by its founder Kim Cameron’s leadership and vision; welcomes Gin Bothy’s use of locally-sourced ingredients; celebrates their expansion to larger production premises in Forfar; highlights their growing order book and international success in markets in Europe and the US; and values their contribution to the immensely important food and drink economy in Angus and Scotland.

294Minimum salary threshold for skilled worker visa

Tabled: 17/01/24 Signatories: 7

Tim Farron

Sarah Dyke

Christine Jardine

Wendy Chamberlain

Jonathan Edwards

Sir Stephen Timms

That this House notes with concern that increasing the skilled worker visa salary thresholds for chefs to £38,700 will have a detrimental impact on the hospitality industry and local economy of rural tourist destinations on top of the lasting effects of covid-19; and calls on the Government to ensure that any salary threshold increase for chefs reflects the needs of the rural tourism economy.

295Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency

Tabled: 17/01/24 Signatories: 12

Grahame Morris

Jon Trickett

Mick Whitley

Mohammad Yasin

Rachael Maskell

Kim Johnson

That this House is dismayed at the complacency and obstinacy of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) management in its implementation of the flawed Driver Services Recovery Programme; notes concerns raised by the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union that the programme poses significant safety risks to examiners and candidates; further notes the strength of feeling demonstrated by PCS members working for the DVSA across England, Wales and Scotland in voting overwhelmingly for industrial action to protect the integrity of the driving test and their existing terms and conditions; recognises the need to reduce the backlog of tests but insists that this must not be at the expense of safety standards or the erosion of existing staff terms and conditions; and urges Government intervention to bring the intransigent DVSA management back to the negotiating table to address the union’s concerns and to seek a resolution to the dispute.

296Presidential election in Taiwan

Tabled: 17/01/24 Signatories: 5

Layla Moran

Sarah Dyke

Wendy Chamberlain

Tim Farron

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates president-elect, William Lai, on his recent emphatic victory in the Taiwanese Presidential Election; further congratulates former Liberal International vice-president and current vice-president-elect, Hsiao Bi-khim, on her success; thanks outgoing President, Tsai Ing-wen, for her wonderful service; commends the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the Liberal Democrat sister party in Taiwan, on its ongoing success in the region; and recognises the vital work that the DPP continues to undertake in the Indo-Pacific as a British and liberal ally.

297Pastel bakery, Midlothian

Tabled: 17/01/24 Signatories: 5

Owen Thompson

Chris Law

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates Pastel bakery in Newtongrange, Midlothian, for their recent successes at the prestigious World Championship Scotch Pie Awards; recognises their gold award for their chicken and chorizo pie and silver for their steak pie; acknowledges how this is an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the dedication, creativity and hard work put into their bakery; applauds the bakery’s commitment to excellence, combined with an innovative approach and attention to quality; further acknowledges how this award is a well-deserved recognition of the Pastel’s team’s efforts and the exceptional experiences they provide to customers; and wishes Pastel continued success and acclaim in the future.

298Celebration of the birth and legacy of Robert (Rabbie) Burns

Tabled: 18/01/24 Signatories: 48

Allan Dorans

Dr Philippa Whitford

Alan Brown

Patricia Gibson

Stephen Flynn

Mhairi Black

That this House notes and celebrates the 265th anniversary of the birth of Robert (Rabbie) Burns, Scotland’s national bard, in Alloway on the 25 January 1759, regarded as a pioneer of the Romantic literacy movement, and after his death became a great source of inspiration to the founders of both liberalism and socialism, a cultural icon in Scotland and among the Scottish diaspora, a poet and lyricist who penned the words of Auld Lang Syne, which is sung across the globe on New Year’s Eve, and wrote other poems and songs including Tam O’Shanter, Ae Fond Kiss, To a Mouse, Scots Wa Hae, A Red, Red Rose and A Man’s a Man for A’ That, and whose work has been translated into more than 40 languages and his memory honoured by more than over 50 official statues including in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Russia and Estonia, has had his image portrayed on postage stamps, banknotes and coins in a number of countries and whose life, works and immortal memory are celebrated at Burn’s Suppers across the world by millions of people on 25 January every year.

299Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2024

Tabled: 18/01/24 Signatories: 23

Dr Philippa Whitford

Rachael Maskell

Sir Mike Penning

Richard Thomson

Drew Hendry

Ronnie Cowan

That this House notes that 22 January marks the start of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2024, which is an opportunity to highlight the vital importance of HPV vaccines and cervical screening in the prevention of cervical cancer and their potential to thereby contribute to the elimination of cervical cancer; acknowledges that there are significant inequalities in the uptake of cervical screening and HPV vaccines; recognises the work of Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust in providing public information and individual support; and encourages hon. Members to support Cervical Cancer Prevention Week by raising awareness and sharing campaign resources with their constituents.

300Public sector pay 2024-25

Tabled: 18/01/24 Signatories: 25

Beth Winter

Ian Byrne

Dawn Butler

Richard Burgon

Chris Stephens

John McDonnell

That this House notes the Government's public sector pay remit letters to the Chairs of the Pay Review Bodies published on 20 December 2023; further notes that their publication date and request for a report by May 2024 is a month later than the previous pay round; notes the Government request that Pay Review Bodies consider the historic nature of the 2023 to 2024 awards and the Government's affordability position in concluding their settlement; recognises that public sector workers have suffered significant real terms pay reductions since 2010 including through a period of pay freeze from 2011 to 2013, a one per cent pay cap from 2013 to 2017 and record inflation from 2022 to 2024; welcomes comments from the Institute for Fiscal Studies, the Institute for Public Policy Research and the Institute for Government which counter assertions that public sector pay awards drive inflation; urges the Government to make an inflation-proofed pay rise in 2024-25; and calls on the Government to implement a series of above-inflation pay rises over five years to deliver pay restoration.

302Muirtown Primary School

Tabled: 19/01/24 Signatories: 6

Drew Hendry

Chris Law

Douglas Chapman

Brendan O'Hara

Allan Dorans

David Linden

That this House commends Muirtown Primary School on their ongoing commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment for their pupils; recognises they have won numerous awards for their efforts including a Silver Pearson’s Award for Digital Innovation, Silver Rights Respecting Schools Award, Digital Schools Award, Cyber Resilience and Internet Safety Award, Digital Wellbeing Award, School of the Year and their teacher Beth Fuller won Teacher of the Year at the Highland Hero Awards; notes that most recently they created artwork to demonstrate their passion for climate change, which was showcased at an event in the House of Commons; congratulates them for their successes; and wishes them continued success for the future.

303Access to medications

Tabled: 19/01/24 Signatories: 7

Jon Trickett

Kim Johnson

Mary Kelly Foy

Jonathan Edwards

Claudia Webbe

John McDonnell

That this House expresses its dismay at reports that there is a shortage of diabetes and other medication in the UK; notes that some GP surgeries are unable to prescribe the type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic at all due to shortages; further notes that this shortage has been linked with the drug being used off-prescription by people without diabetes for weight loss purposes; highlights the awful situation those with diabetes have been put in, including a constituent in Hemsworth who has been left without diabetes medication since September 2023; further highlights media reports that some medications will face shortages until the end of 2024; notes the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies statement which said the shortage of medication to treat the likes of epilepsy, ADHD and diabetes, as well as some cancer drugs and hormone replacement therapy was the worst that we have ever seen; also notes the National Pharmacy Association’s warning that this has led to community pharmacy teams being put under pressure with some patients rationing medication; highlights the fact that drugs such as Ozempic are being sold online for nearly £200, 1765% more than the cost of an NHS prescription; and ,whilst noting that a new “National Patient Safety Alert” has been issued by NHS England and the Department for Health and Social Care to address supply, urgently calls on the government to address the shortage and ensure the pharmaceuticals industry provides medication to those who need it.